thornton37814's 2015 Reading - Thread 5

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thornton37814's 2015 Reading - Thread 5

1thornton37814
okt 15, 2015, 7:14 pm



Time again for a new thread. This photo is one of the ones taken a week ago as the three little kittens were on their way to live with me.

They are actually crying when I leave the room now and try to get me to come back. They still don't really want to be touched. The little yellow one needs a bath really badly! I'm afraid I'll have to "terrorize" over the weekend to give a helping hand. The light gray one is a greedy little gal. I reported on the last thread about her not wanting to share the treats. I saw her put her paw down on something today to keep one of the others from getting it. She really is selfish. Jeff told me that I need to teach her to share. I asked him if he had any suggestions on how I would go about that. Silence!

I remembered to change the thread number this time. I have a tendency to forget to do that!

I'll pick up with book #131 on this thread as soon as it is finished. I haven't had much time for reading the last couple of days.

2Familyhistorian
okt 15, 2015, 11:23 pm

So cute and already you can tell their different personalities. Happy new thread, Lori!

3Ameise1
okt 16, 2015, 4:30 am

Happy New Thread, Lori. When you have more than one cat there is always one who is the boss but that doesn't mean that it doesn't care for the others.

4susanj67
okt 16, 2015, 5:02 am

Happy new thread, Lori. The kittens are gorgeous, and I'm sure eventually they'll come out of the laundry room :-) They will soon realise what a nice house (and human) they've come to.

5PaulCranswick
okt 16, 2015, 8:30 am

According to Ray Bradbury this event above all others prompted Fahrenheit 451 :



Instead of burning the books they should have burned their swastikas.

Happy new thread and wishing you a peaceful weekend, Lori.

6thornton37814
okt 16, 2015, 5:31 pm

>2 Familyhistorian: They are sweeties!

>3 Ameise1: I know. I don't like her attitude sometimes. She was growling and hissing to let them know which treats were hers (all hers) today. Fortunately, I've already figured out how to make sure the others get their share too. She actually did come get a treat out of my hand, but she bit the fire out of my finger after getting a treat twice.

>4 susanj67: Actually they are staying in the laundry room until they are consistently using the litter box. I am happy to report that I got to scratch behind the ears and under the chin of all three kittens when I got home from work. When I left the laundry room, they meowed for me before I even made it the two paces to the stairs. I turned around and poked my head back in, and they all three stayed in their places and looked longingly at me! Awwww! I love my kitties.

>5 PaulCranswick: Thanks. I hope you have a wonderful weekend too. Carrie and I are going to the Knox Asian Festival tomorrow. It should be fun!

7thornton37814
okt 16, 2015, 7:29 pm



131. Super Genes by Deepak Chopra and Rudolph E. Tanzi

Date Completed: 16 Oct 2015

Category: Operation

TIOLI Challenge: None

Rating: 3 stars

Review: Genetics is a rapidly evolving field of study with so many discoveries that one must be dilligent to keep up. The authors have shown that they are well-versed in recent discoveries, even reporting on the recent epigenetics discovery that one's ancestors memories may be etched in our DNA. The first section with its focus on the science behind DNA and epigenetics is by far the most interesting. The authors attempt to apply the research to lifestyle choices in the second part. Unfortunately the authors seemed to be guided by and promoting New Age philosophies in this section and in the third section which focused on evolution. I would prefer to read a book on genetics that was a bit more neutral and did not promote Eastern religions and philosophies. The appendices were more interesting than the last two parts of the book. This review is based on on Advanced Review e-galley provided by the publisher through NetGalley for review purposes.

Note: A discrepancy in subtitle between the LC record and the title page exists. I left off the subtitle intentionally since the book is not yet published.

8nittnut
okt 16, 2015, 9:04 pm

Adorable photo of the kitties. You are going to have three very affectionate friends in a week or so. :)

>7 thornton37814: Ah well. With Deepak Chopra involved, it's only to be expected. Good the first half was interesting. That would be my favorite part too.

9Familyhistorian
okt 16, 2015, 9:20 pm

>7 thornton37814: That's the first that I've heard about epigenetics, Lori. Very interesting but it also makes sense.

10Whisper1
okt 17, 2015, 8:51 am

What incredibly adorable kittens!

11RebaRelishesReading
okt 17, 2015, 11:11 am

Looking forward to hearing how the bath goes. That's always a challenge with cats, not to mention ones that are still getting used to a new home.

12thornton37814
okt 17, 2015, 9:28 pm

>8 nittnut: They let me pick them up and pet them today. It's been a good day! I officially have pets now. I'd never read anything by Chopra so I had no idea to expect that.

>9 Familyhistorian: You may find this article that has been going around on Facebook in the genealogy community interesting: http://soulsurfing.website/index.php/2015/10/13/scientists-have-found-that-memor...

>10 Whisper1: They are wonderful

>11 RebaRelishesReading: I'm waiting on the bath. I did get Advantage II for Kittens today. All three of them were very good and sat still on my lap while I applied it to them. I did see some waterless shampoo today at Petsmart. I wonder how well that would work? I thought I might see if the vet has a suggestion. I'm hoping to get them in next week.

13Familyhistorian
okt 18, 2015, 2:23 am

>12 thornton37814: Interesting article, Lori. Today I went to our annual Tri-Stakes seminar put on by the LDS church (the 20th annual session today). The first session I attended was about health and genealogy and I learned more about epigenetics. Isn't it funny how you keep running across something once it has come to your attention once?

14thornton37814
okt 18, 2015, 8:58 pm

>13 Familyhistorian: Yes. That's the second big study to report on this finding about memories being passed down this year.

15ronincats
okt 18, 2015, 9:09 pm

If just the one is not bathing herself adequately, try playing mama for her with a small damp washrag. Hold her and rub the rag with your finger around her face and neck first. When she tolerates that, move to other dirty areas. This mimics mama's licking and may stimulate her to do more self-cleaning (if for no other reason than to lick off the moisture you are applying). I'm glad they are taming down so quickly.

16thornton37814
okt 18, 2015, 9:22 pm

>15 ronincats: Oh, he's doing much better now. He was the smallest of the kittens, "the runt" as we would have said back when I was younger.

17Storeetllr
Bewerkt: okt 18, 2015, 9:45 pm

Hi, Lori! Happy new thread! Hope you had a good weekend. Cute kitties!

18Familyhistorian
okt 18, 2015, 11:38 pm

>14 thornton37814: It sounds like a theory that is gaining a lot of credence, Lori.

19thornton37814
okt 19, 2015, 9:46 am

>17 Storeetllr: Thanks.

>18 Familyhistorian: Yes. I've got some instances in my own family where there is a special affinity for a place. My family used to visit Ohio's Amish country. My mother absolutely loved the area right around Charm, Ohio where the Guggisberg Cheese factory and store are located -- the "Chalet in the Valley." When I got the deeds for my ancestor's land in the courthouse in Millersburg and grabbed the section, township, range maps for the area to plot it, guess where my ancestors lived? Right there! My mother said, "No wonder I always felt that was so much a part of me." Carrie can tell you that I loved a lot of places in New England much more than she did. She told me at the time she thought it was because my ancestors had lived there and that somehow that must be part of me. This was before we ever heard of epigenetics.

We've settled on one of the three names for the kittens. He wants to go with names that match personalities rather than "triplet" names. The female is officially "Miss Bossy," but we are going to shorten it to "Miss B" for most purposes. One down; two to go.

20Whisper1
okt 19, 2015, 9:52 am

Miss B, is a great name. The divine miss B!

21thornton37814
okt 19, 2015, 10:18 am

>20 Whisper1: It does fit her!

22RebaRelishesReading
okt 19, 2015, 11:09 am

>12 thornton37814: sitting on your lap!? That sounds like great progress.

23thornton37814
okt 19, 2015, 3:40 pm

>22 RebaRelishesReading: Indeed! And climbing into it of his own free will!

24cbl_tn
okt 19, 2015, 8:24 pm

>23 thornton37814: So are you going to hug him and pet him and squeeze him and call him George?!

25thornton37814
okt 19, 2015, 10:04 pm

>24 cbl_tn: He won't be George. While he was in my lap tonight, the female cat (Miss B) climbed up but only to chase the male cat's tail. At least it was progress for her too!

26Ameise1
okt 24, 2015, 8:50 am

Happy weekend, Lori.

27thornton37814
okt 24, 2015, 1:18 pm

>26 Ameise1: Thanks, Barbara. I just hope those deer don't cross the road and run into a car (or vice versa).

28thornton37814
okt 24, 2015, 1:23 pm



132. The Lie by Helen Dunmore

Date Completed: 24 Oct 2015

Category: Risk

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #6: Read a book where a word in the title starts with any of the six central letters of the English alphabet K,L,M,N,O, or P

Rating: 4 stars

Review: Daniel Branwell has returned to Cornwall after fighting in World War I. He lives with an old woman who dies. Instead of reporting the death, he buries her and pretends she is living so he can continue to live in her house. Like many, he suffered the loss of a close friend in the war. That friend was Frederick, and Daniel reconnects with his friend's sister Felicia after the war. He's also suffering from what we know today as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (or PTSD). We discover lies Daniel has told which make the reader question which parts of the narrative are true and which are not. Dunmore knows how to write a story that will keep readers' attention even if they dislike many or most of the characters. My reading brought to mind a conversation I recently had with a friend who had done her nursing practicum for psychiatric nursing at a Veterans Administration facility. She said it was a great place for that specialty because the soldiers suffering PTSD really did need to be there. It made me wonder how Daniel's life and end might have been different if the disorder and been recognized at the time and if facilities for treatment had existed.

29thornton37814
Bewerkt: okt 29, 2015, 10:00 pm

Time for another kitten post.



Sherlock (left), Barney (as in Fife, not the purple dinosaur) (middle), Mr. Bossy (or "Mr. B" for short) (right)

30Familyhistorian
okt 24, 2015, 9:23 pm

>29 thornton37814: They look like they are getting tamer, pretty alert with those ears up in the air.

31thornton37814
Bewerkt: okt 29, 2015, 10:01 pm

>30 Familyhistorian: They all like to be petted now (although the female still won't admit it). Two will just purr and purr. The one that is on the floor is actually the one usually in my lap. He's a charmer. I'm hoping Jeff and I settle on a name for him tonight so that I can announce their names.

32ronincats
okt 24, 2015, 11:09 pm

Ooh, LOVE the kitten post and the names!!

33Ameise1
okt 25, 2015, 6:05 am

>29 thornton37814: Oh, wonderful kitty photos and now they have got their names. It looks like they aren't so shy anymore.

34streamsong
okt 25, 2015, 10:09 am

Great names! I especially like the name 'Sherlock' and hadn't thought of it for a kitten before, but how perfect! All 3 are great names for beautiful beasties. It looks like your patience is paying off with years and years of love and purrs to come.

35kidzdoc
okt 25, 2015, 2:36 pm

>29 thornton37814: Aw! So cute.

36RebaRelishesReading
okt 25, 2015, 4:28 pm

Great names and adorable kittens!

37johnsimpson
okt 25, 2015, 5:48 pm

Hi Lori, thanks for popping along to my thread my dear, I just love chunksters and have just finished my latest and will be starting another tonight. I hope to end the year with 27 read but will definitely do 25 as I am nearing the end of my fifth cycle. I don't think I will read anywhere near as many next year as I am not setting a particular theme but will aim for my 75.

I just love the kitty photo's and we are cat lover's, Leo has just gone 13 but is suffering from a bit of arthritis at the moment. Sending love and hugs to you my dear and I have starred your thread.

38cushlareads
okt 25, 2015, 5:59 pm

Hi Lori - lovely kitten photos, and thanks for the review of The Lie. I really enjoyed The Siege and will have a look for this one in the library.

39thornton37814
Bewerkt: okt 29, 2015, 10:01 pm

>32 ronincats: Yes! I have to do those periodic kitten posts. It took awhile for Jeff and I to agree on names. It took me awhile to figure out he didn't want to name them trio names. Once I figured it out, we generally settled on them pretty quickly.

>33 Ameise1: I had all three of them in my lap this evening at once. Barney and Mr. B aren't quite as outgoing as Sherlock, but they have all decided they like this petting thing!

>34 streamsong: Sherlock seems to be a bit more adventurous than the others. I knew Jeff liked Sherlock Holmes and thought he might go for it. He did!

40thornton37814
okt 25, 2015, 11:12 pm

>35 kidzdoc: Thanks! I love my babies!

>36 RebaRelishesReading: Thank you very much!

>37 johnsimpson: I think I would enjoy chunksters more if I had more "block time" to read. Those three cute little furry distractions will probably get to move upstairs this week. They have finally learned to use the litter box thanks to Kitten Attract litter. I'm planning to take them to the vet before I give them free reign. I also want to go through the house and make absolutely sure that I have it kitty-proofed. I need to find out about the plants I have. They may have to be moved to my office if I find out they are bad for kitties. I don't think these are, but I need to be sure.

>38 cushlareads: The Siege is the one I would have liked to read; however, it wasn't available locally. Maybe next time.

41thornton37814
Bewerkt: okt 26, 2015, 1:01 pm

Megan Smolenyak Smolenyak pointed out (on Facebook) an article she wrote talking about Lisa See, author of several books. See has placed some supplementary materials on her website describing her research process for Chinese-American genealogy.

42countrylife
okt 27, 2015, 8:03 am

Kitten pictures are adorable! You caught Barney wearing an expression just like his namesake!

43thornton37814
okt 27, 2015, 10:38 am

>42 countrylife: He acts very much like his namesake too. Jeff suggested it based on my descriptions of him.

44thornton37814
okt 27, 2015, 10:44 am



133. Red Sings from Treetops: A Year in Colors by Joyce Sidman; illustrated by Pamela Zagarenski

Date Completed: 27 Oct 2015

Category: Scrabble

TIOLI Challenge: None

Rating: 3.5 stars

Review: This illustrated poem takes a look at the seasons by examining colors in each. The strength of the book lies in the illustrations rather than the poem itself. The detail in the illustrations is definitely what garnered it the Caldecott honor.

45thornton37814
okt 27, 2015, 11:05 am



134. A Couple of Boys Have the Best Week Ever by Marla Frazee

Date Completed: 27 Oct 2015

Category: Scrabble

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #7: Read a book where the main character is a child

Rating: 3.5 stars

Review: A couple of boys spend the week at a nature camp near the home of one of their sets of grandparents. The camp was a day camp, allowing the students to spend the evenings at the home of the grandparents. Even though the camp is billed as nature camp, it doesn't seem to be doing a very good job of exposing the children to nature. The children finally explored a little nature exploration on their own the final evening. I did not like using the first names of the grandparents. I would have preferred for them to be addressed as Grandma and Grandpa or some derivation of those respectful names. Young boys will probably enjoy the book and some of its silliness.

46thornton37814
okt 27, 2015, 11:27 am



135. A Ball for Daisy by Chris Raschka

Date Completed: 27 Oct 2015

Category: Scrabble

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #17: Read a book where one (and only one) of the title words has 4 letters

Rating: 4 stars

Review: The book has no words--only illustrations. It would be fun to have children tell you the story from the illustrations. Children can probably understand the dog's despair that his favorite toy "broke" and that the replacement isn't ever quite the same. Cute book!

47thornton37814
okt 27, 2015, 11:40 am



136. Green by Laura Vaccaro Seeger

Date Completed: 27 Oct 2015

Category: Scrabble

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #1: Read a book whose author's last name contains a three-letter combination which is an English word if spelled backward

Rating: 5 stars

Review: Picture book that shows various shades of green. It utilizes cut-outs on the pages that are important. I loved this book, and I think young readers will appreciate it. It is deserving of its Caldecott honor.

48thornton37814
Bewerkt: okt 27, 2015, 12:03 pm



137. How I Learned Geography by Uri Shulevitz

Date Completed: 27 Oct 2015

Category: Scrabble

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #7: Read a book where the main character is a child

Rating: 4 stars

Review: Based on the author's own experience during the Holocaust, it recounts a boy's fascination with a map his father brought home instead of bread when the family was poor in the land to which they had fled. The author's note tells that the family fled Poland and came to what is now Kazakhstan. While I'm not certain how the boy knew that the lands on the map had the features he imagined, it's a great story that hopefully will interest some readers in maps.

49RebaRelishesReading
okt 27, 2015, 1:29 pm

How nice the kitties like to be petted. Our last cat would follow us from room to room and always sit near us (favorite spot was on top of my old-fashioned computer monitor, preferably with her tail hanging right in front of what I was trying to look at) but she never wanted to be stroked or, worse yet, to have your hand actually rest on her.

50thornton37814
okt 27, 2015, 5:58 pm

>49 RebaRelishesReading: All three of them just purred when I petted them upon arriving home from work. I gave them treats afterwards. I love my fur babies!

51thornton37814
okt 28, 2015, 9:23 pm

Managed to get a selfie with all 3 on my lap this evening.

52Ameise1
okt 29, 2015, 1:50 am

Ah, thats wonderful.

53thornton37814
okt 29, 2015, 7:52 pm

>52 Ameise1: They are sweeties! They went to the vet for the first time today. I'll probably have to set my alarm about 15 minutes earlier in the morning so I can do the heartworm medication.

54ronincats
okt 29, 2015, 10:06 pm

>51 thornton37814: Oh, what a great shot!! Give them kitty hugs for me, please.

55susanj67
okt 30, 2015, 5:30 am

Lori, that's a very cute picture! I hope the medication-giving works out OK.

I found the dark chocolate Reese's peanut butter cups this morning in a supermarket here at Canary Wharf - I thought of you when I saw them :-)

56thornton37814
okt 30, 2015, 11:07 pm

>54 ronincats: They love hugs now!

>55 susanj67: Two of them spit a little of it back at me this morning, but I'm sure that most of it went down. I'm totally jealous of the Dark Reese's.

Tonight, the kittens were engaged in chasing something imaginary under my legs -- or at least Sherlock and Mr. B were.

57thornton37814
okt 30, 2015, 11:29 pm



138. For the Love of Mike by Rhys Bowen

Date Completed: 30 Oct 2015

Category: Hi Ho! Cherry-O

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #1: Read a book whose author's last name contains a three-letter combination which is an English word if spelled backward

Rating: 3.5 stars

Review: Molly Murphy is now on her own as a detective since her mentor died. She does not want to keep working divorce cases which were her mentor's "bread and butter." She takes on a missing persons case when a man from Ireland hires her to find his daughter who had run off with a boyfriend he did not like. She is also hired by a garment factory owner to find who is stealing his designs and passing them along to a competitor. Molly finds herself in many dangerous situations from which she is sometimes rescued by Capt. Daniel Sullivan of the New York police department and sometimes by Jacob, a photographer she meets in the story. I haven't read the earlier books in the series, but I enjoyed this one fairly well. While others in the series are not high priorities, I might enjoy reading them if I can obtain them from the library.

58RebaRelishesReading
okt 31, 2015, 12:42 pm

>51 thornton37814: and all of them looking right at the camera -- great photo!!

59ronincats
okt 31, 2015, 8:53 pm

I've been reading Bowen's Lady Georgiana series, set in the thirties, and enjoying that. Don't know if I'd like this one if Molly keeps having to be rescued by men?

60PaulCranswick
nov 1, 2015, 1:05 am

Thanks for the unusually angled photos of you and the cats!

Have a lovely weekend.

61thornton37814
nov 2, 2015, 5:50 pm

>58 RebaRelishesReading: Yes, I was shocked!

>59 ronincats: Apparently she's been rescued by Capt. Sullivan in the previous books, judging from the narrative of this one. I think that's why I say that I'd pick up one if available at the library. It's not something I'd spend money to read.

>60 PaulCranswick: Yes. My knee got in the way on the one, but that's about the only way I could get the kittens. I have no idea what they were chasing under my leg in the other. I just happened to be wearing shorts at the time.

62thornton37814
Bewerkt: nov 2, 2015, 6:56 pm

Around 11 p.m. last night, I received a panicked message from a genealogy librarian in the area whose library was hosting a genealogy conference this coming weekend. The main speaker was injured and unable to travel. I spent this morning helping plan a genealogy conference at the last minute, but we've managed to fill all the slots. I was prepared to do all the subbing, if necessary, so cancellation of the conference would not be necessary. Fortunately, I found a couple of persons with whom the load can be shared. Now instead of just attending the conference, I'm presenting, but it's nice to know that I can pull off a conference line-up in a single morning.

63vancouverdeb
nov 2, 2015, 8:14 pm

A belated Happy New Thread , Lori! What darling kittens! You mention initially that they don't care to be handled too much? Are they rescue kittens, or semi - feral , or is that just how young kittens are? I know our Poppy dog, a rescue, did not like much handling as a puppy. She liked it when she liked it, but she 'd give us a good nip on the hand if we even put a leash on her. We had more than one trainer/ behaviourist over to assist us with Poppy and one mentioned to us that she was not unlike to a semi - feral dog. She has come a long , long way from that in the past 2 years. She jumps in our laps, and no more biting when we put a little rain coat or leash on her . So nice!

64thornton37814
nov 2, 2015, 8:33 pm

>63 vancouverdeb: I guess you could say they were semi-feral. They lived in my brother's shop. Their mom was a stray who adopted my brother's shop because they put out food and water for the cats who live there. They used the grass for a litter box so litter box training was a challenge until I discovered Kitten Attract Cat Litter. They have come around. They all want me to pet them now. They are going to be good kitties. They are a little over 10 weeks old now by our best guesstimate.

65Familyhistorian
nov 2, 2015, 9:09 pm

>62 thornton37814: Well, that genealogy librarian knew who to call! Isn't it amazing what you can pull off when you try and great that you won't have to do all of the subbing. Enjoy the conference.

66RebaRelishesReading
nov 3, 2015, 10:39 am

>62 thornton37814: wow, I'm impressed! Hope all of those who attend appreciate the effort.

67thornton37814
nov 3, 2015, 6:15 pm

>65 Familyhistorian: Actually the speaker who cancelled told him to call me although I think Tim would have anyway.

>66 RebaRelishesReading: I'm sure they will. They did get the updated information out to the newspaper for the article that was appearing either today or tomorrow.

68thornton37814
Bewerkt: nov 3, 2015, 6:32 pm

Cat Video

My kittens provided some entertainment for me this morning. I was shooting still shots when all of a sudden I realized I should be doing video instead. By that time, one of the kittens took a break for water, but all three get into the action before the end of this 2 minute clip.

ETA: I couldn't figure out how to embed it here. It should be available to all who click.

69ronincats
nov 3, 2015, 6:43 pm

70thornton37814
nov 3, 2015, 7:55 pm

>69 ronincats: I was quite entertained. Tonight the entertainment is seeing them run up and down the stairs. One of them managed to turn the TV. One has been trying to play with the chords on my keyboard.

71countrylife
nov 4, 2015, 8:50 am

Who you gonna call? They had the right answer, didn't they! But we all know you're a planner, so no surprises, just confirmation in a huge way! Looking forward to hearing about how the conference goes.

72thornton37814
nov 4, 2015, 9:52 pm

>71 countrylife: Thanks. I don't think the turnout will be great because I don't think they marketed it as they should have, but still let's hope it goes well for those who do come.

73tymfos
nov 5, 2015, 12:20 am

Your kittens are so cute! And I'm impressed with your quick work saving the conference!

74thornton37814
nov 5, 2015, 7:47 pm

>73 tymfos: Thanks. We'll see how it goes over the next couple of days.

75thornton37814
nov 5, 2015, 7:50 pm



The Door by the Staircase by Katherine Marsh

Date Abandoned: 4 Nov 2015

Category: Sorry

Review: An orphan is adopted by a woman called Madame Z who has Russian roots. Her new home is near a town that seems to be full of "magic." Everything is so much better for Mary than it was before. Unfortunately this book had a little more Occultic content than I could handle so I abandoned it about 1/3 of the way through. I suspect readers who don't have the same issues that type of material would enjoy it. This review is based on an advance reader's copy provided by the publisher through NetGalley with the expectation a review would be written.

76thornton37814
nov 10, 2015, 9:04 pm

I've slowed down a bit on the reading. I've been too busy lately. I've started my Kingsolver book. I've got one ARC that I need to read and the two British author challenge books. This is going to be a busy week. I have a meeting in Nashville on Friday and will be driving over on Thursday. It will be the first overnight trip where the kittens have to fend for themselves for more hours than normal. I'll be sure to put out plenty of food and water for them. I'll come back Friday evening, but Jeff and I are going to meet up on Saturday just for the day so I'll have lots of driving that day. Then the next week, the kittens and I are heading to Mississippi for my niece's wedding. They will actually be visiting their birthplace but instead of having to be in the shop, they'll get to be in the house. It's going to be interesting to pack. I'll have more cat food and water bowls, scratching devices, etc. than I will my own luggage probably. Hopefully I'll have some time to read once I get to Mississippi or I'll never get everything read this month. Also, I'm going to have to try to get to the library before I leave town. I'm hoping I can either go Monday morning, but if not then, right after we make the trip to the vet for the second round of shots before leaving for Mississippi.

77Familyhistorian
nov 10, 2015, 9:39 pm

All that travel and then traveling with 3 kittens - I wish you luck Lori! Hopefully you get in some reading time.

78thornton37814
nov 10, 2015, 10:04 pm

>77 Familyhistorian: Thanks. I hope I will. Otherwise I'll be finishing up my intended 2015 reads in December or even in 2016.

79nittnut
nov 11, 2015, 4:07 am

The kitties are looking healthy and happy!

80RebaRelishesReading
nov 11, 2015, 12:24 pm

Wow, traveling with three kittens sounds hard. Hope the trip goes well. It will be interesting to see how they react being back at their point of origin. Is the Mom still around there?

81thornton37814
nov 11, 2015, 9:42 pm

>79 nittnut: They are. Mr. B says chasing his tail is hard work. Meanwhile, Barney came over, took a screen shot, and put it in Dropbox. Then he changed the settings on my browser. Had to figure out how he'd managed to do what he'd done.

>80 RebaRelishesReading: The Mom will be out in the shop. We'll keep them inside so I doubt they'll see her. They will, however, see Charlie, the indoor/outdoor cat. I'm sure they'll know him. I suspect I'll have more kitty stuff to pack than stuff for me.

82RebaRelishesReading
nov 12, 2015, 12:04 pm

I wonder if they'll smell her (I assume cats have very sensitive noses like dogs do). Anyway, hope you have a good trip.

83thornton37814
nov 12, 2015, 8:07 pm

>82 RebaRelishesReading: Thanks. I guess we'll see. Of course, I do think they have a geographic orientation. Brumley always knew when we were almost home.

84thornton37814
nov 12, 2015, 11:05 pm

I downloaded an audiobook for the trip today and tomorrow. It's one of the Montalbano ones, and I'm enjoying it. This may be the only way I get anything "read" this month. I'm not finding much time for printed ones. I'm going to try to read a few chapters in the Kingsolver book before I drift off to sleep.

85thornton37814
nov 13, 2015, 9:57 pm

I spent the drive home listening to an audiobook and didn't know anything about the horrible tragedy that was unfolding in Paris until I got home. Prayers for all.

86PaulCranswick
nov 14, 2015, 3:11 am

Wishing you a wonderful weekend, Lori. Wouldn't it be nice sometimes just to switch on the audio and have the world disappear for a while?

87Donna828
nov 15, 2015, 6:03 pm

Awww, kitty love over here. Your three little kittens are so sweet, Lori. I'm glad they are affectionate and healthy. It must be so much fun to watch them interact. You must be part superhero to be able to save the conference at the last minute like you did. Good for you!

88Familyhistorian
nov 16, 2015, 9:11 pm

Is this the week you travel with the kitties, Lori? If it is I wish you an uneventful journey there and back.

89thornton37814
nov 17, 2015, 4:21 pm

>86 PaulCranswick: It would. I still have to write the review for the book I listened to Thursday/Friday. I started another one Saturday, but I haven't finished it yet. I keep forgetting to turn it on driving to and from work. I'll listen to it Thursday if not before.

>87 Donna828: They are so full of energy. I need to find a way to get them to let me sleep in, but they collectively make so much noise that I think they are about to take the house down if I stay too long.

>88 Familyhistorian: I will be leaving Thursday with them. Unfortunately, the event happened today. I received a text that my uncle was having fluid build-up and that his heart was functioning at only 25% so they couldn't do dialysis. He died around 2 p.m. Now I'll have a wedding and a funeral this weekend.

90nittnut
nov 17, 2015, 6:27 pm

Bless you woman. You have had such a year. Best wishes for the travel and the family events. We will be thinking of you.

91thornton37814
nov 17, 2015, 9:45 pm

>90 nittnut: Thanks. It has been a rough year -- lost my father, then my brother, and now my uncle.

92RebaRelishesReading
nov 18, 2015, 4:03 pm

So sorry for your continued losses, Lori. I hope the joy of the wedding will help offset the pain of the funeral.

93Whisper1
nov 18, 2015, 6:47 pm

Lori, I am so sorry for yet another loss. I send hugs.

94thornton37814
nov 18, 2015, 9:59 pm

>92 RebaRelishesReading: I think the funeral will be on Monday after the funeral. It hasn't been finalized, but that's the plan.

95Familyhistorian
nov 18, 2015, 10:56 pm

A wedding and a funeral - it has been a hard year, Lori. I hope next year brings happier events.

96thornton37814
nov 18, 2015, 11:01 pm

>95 Familyhistorian: I'm ready for next year.

97countrylife
nov 19, 2015, 7:25 am

It seems like these things hit even harder when they hit around the holidays, and when one happens after another. Thinking of you, Lori.

98streamsong
nov 19, 2015, 8:25 am

((Hugs))). I'm thinking of you.

99rosylibrarian
nov 19, 2015, 1:56 pm

Oh, no. So sorry. :(

100thornton37814
nov 19, 2015, 8:27 pm

>97 countrylife: Thanks. It is hard at the holidays. I have memories of waiting on Uncle Hansel and Aunt Dot to arrive and Pappaw and Grandmother's so we could eat! ;-)

>98 streamsong: Thank you.

>99 rosylibrarian: Thanks.

101thornton37814
nov 19, 2015, 9:57 pm



139. The Age of Doubt by Andrea Camilleri

Date Completed: 13 Nov 2015

Category: Scrabble

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #3: Read a book that is the 11th (or later) book in a series

Rating: 3 stars

Review: Montalbano happens upon a car in danger of being swept away in water. He rescues the woman who is meeting a relative arriving by yacht. It soon leads to a mystery involving the yacht, another vessel, the port police, and even distant parts. Being in a relationship with Livia does not keep Montalbano's eyes from trying to create a relationship with a female lieutenant from the port authority. It was interesting enough but not as believable as some in the series. I listened to this one, and Grover Gardener, the narrator, did a great job as usual.

102thornton37814
nov 19, 2015, 11:08 pm



140. Died in the Wool by Ngaio Marsh

Date Completed: 19 Nov 2015

Category: Scrabble

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #3: Read a book that is the 11th (or later) book in a series

Rating: 3.5 stars

Review: Inspector Alleyn happens to be in New Zealand during World War II and has the opportunity to investigate a death on a sheep farm. The cast of characters includes many good suspects, and Marsh does a good job creating suspicion with many. However, the hint for the perpetrator was a bit too obvious. Still there are interesting tidbits about sheep farming included, and the New Zealand setting is a nice change from American and British ones in so much detective fiction. I listened to this one on Blackstone Audio on Overdrive. The female narrator did a good job.

103thornton37814
nov 19, 2015, 11:23 pm



141. Aleutian Sparrow by Karen Hesse

Date Completed: 19 Nov 2015

Category: Scrabble

TIOLI Challenge: None

Rating: 2.5 stars

Review: Vera, an Aleut girl forced to relocate during World War II, tells the story of their days in Wrangell and Ward Lake. Emphasis was made that Americans were doing this to their fellow citizens and that excuses were being offered for the behavior. The internment experiences during World War II are tragic. We often hear stories of the Japanese, Germans, and Italians who were relocated, but the author wanted to share the story of the Aleuts. I listened to the audio book. I did not think the narrator did a good job. Her voice seemed to lack emotion to support the story. The book itself did not lend itself well to an audio read. Several of the chapters or subheadings are only about a sentence long so it seemed very choppy. Occasionally the words seemed to flow poetically, but it was soon interrupted by a short segment that lacked the same eloquence.

104kidzdoc
nov 21, 2015, 6:57 am

You have had a tough year, Lori. I'm sorry to hear about your uncle's passing.

105Ameise1
nov 21, 2015, 7:26 am

Oh dear, Lori, I'm thinking of you. Hugs xx

106Familyhistorian
nov 21, 2015, 11:25 pm

>103 thornton37814: I am currently making my way through an ER books that I received, Speak a Word for Freedom: Women Against Slavery. One of the women profiled in the book is Fredericka Martin who campaigned for rights for the Aleuts who were mistreated even before they were sent to the evacuation camps. According to the book, the Aleuts were treated as wards of the US Government and denied citizenship until they fought for it.

107PaulCranswick
nov 22, 2015, 12:51 am

Sending you gentle hugs for a peaceful weekend, Lori. xx

108thornton37814
nov 22, 2015, 9:54 pm

>104 kidzdoc: Thanks, Daryl.

>105 Ameise1: Thanks for the hug.

>106 Familyhistorian: I thought the story line was interesting enough if it had not been so choppy. The story in your ER book sounds interesting. One of the more interesting features on the audio version were a couple of interviews with survivors of those camps at the end. It really was only 2 parts on the audio so it is short for anyone truly interested in that period of history.

>107 PaulCranswick: Thanks, Paul. The wedding went well yesterday although I was exhausted at the end of the day and had to settle for only a quick text message or two with Jeff which wasn't very satisfying. Today I visited a friend whose mother is dying in the hospital in the town in which I grew up. They lived across the street from us growing up. My friend lives in the Austin, Texas area, and I live in East Tennessee but we've seen each other more this last year than at any time since high school. She was actually around when my dad died.

109thornton37814
nov 23, 2015, 9:03 pm

All three of my kittens love the basket of potholders and dish towels on the shelf in my brother's pantry.



I also want to share a short video of them having fun with the remnants of some of wedding greenery. I'd already removed the baby's breath since it is toxic to cats. https://www.facebook.com/lori.thornton/videos/812372009232/?l=133464225868956067...

110Familyhistorian
nov 23, 2015, 9:10 pm

>109 thornton37814: That little dark one is quite the instigator! So cute, Lori.

111thornton37814
nov 23, 2015, 9:21 pm

>110 Familyhistorian: He's also the one who goes around exploring the most. That's how he got his name Sherlock. On the upside, he's also the most loving one!

112thornton37814
nov 23, 2015, 9:35 pm



142. The Ghost Walker by Margaret Coel

Date Completed: 21 Nov 2015

Category: Scrabble

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #2: Read a book in which one of the characters is a military veteran or is currently serving

Rating: 3.5 stars

Review: In this second mystery set on the Wind River reservation in Wyoming, Father John O'Malley happens upon a body when his Toyota breaks down. He is nearly run over by a person who was obviously not from the area but who reconsiders and gives him a lift. When the sheriff and Father John return to the scene, the body is gone. The only thing of which they are certain is that the body is Arapaho because of a necklace found at the scene. In the meantime the attorney Vicky Holden is dealing with a daughter mixed up with a guy she believes is supplying her. In the midst of it all, news is received that the mission will be closing. Lots of story lines all run together to make this an interesting installment. Certain aspects are dated. For example, cell phones would change the plot if written today. Stephanie Brush does a great job reading it on the audio version.

I listened to this one driving back and forth from my brother's home in Iuka to Starkville in Mississippi for the rehearsal (and the decorating for the wedding beforehand) and for the wedding (and pictures beforehand) of my niece. This was his first experience with an audio book. He was fascinated I could download them from my library and listen for free. After we finished, he wanted to know more about how it worked. We're going to check to see if his library offers them.

113cbl_tn
nov 23, 2015, 9:54 pm

I think you hit the jackpot with those kittens!

114Ameise1
nov 24, 2015, 1:18 am

Love the kitties photos.

115thornton37814
nov 28, 2015, 10:28 pm

>113 cbl_tn: Definitely.

>114 Ameise1: They are delightful.

116thornton37814
nov 29, 2015, 9:50 pm



143. Clouds Without Rain by P. L Gaus

Date Completed: 24 Nov 2015

Category: Scrabble

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #10: Read a book by an author whose name contains no repeating vowels

Rating: 4 stars

Review: Professor Michael Branden, who works on the side with the sheriff's department, is trying to catch a couple of Amish youth who are robbing Amish buggies while wearing masks. As he is returning the borrowed buggy, he hears a call to the scene of an accident involving a truck and a buggy. The accident leaves more questions than answers, including the question of whether it could have been murder. Real estate developers have been less than honest in their dealings with many Amish and will soon foreclose on a number of Amish farms. A new bishop is concerned about the effects on his flock. All the angles of the story work together to create a satisfying read (or listen). The audio version is narrated by George Newbern who does a commendable job.

117tymfos
nov 30, 2015, 10:31 pm

>116 thornton37814: I read and liked the first in that series. I definitely want to read more. I like your review of that one.

118Berly
nov 30, 2015, 10:40 pm

143 Books already--wow!! And nice job pulling off the conference. Sorry to hear about your uncle (and your father and brother before) -- hope the kitten joy helps and that December and 2016 are happier times for you. Hugs.

119thornton37814
dec 1, 2015, 2:52 pm

>117 tymfos: It was interesting. It had several threads, but they worked together. It's much better written than most "Amish" books. Of course, it is a university press too.

>118 Berly: Some of those were children's books that I couldn't resist reading when they needed to be cataloged.

120RebaRelishesReading
dec 3, 2015, 4:58 pm

Thanks for the kitty pleasure :)

121thornton37814
dec 3, 2015, 8:35 pm

>120 RebaRelishesReading: You're welcome. The kittens destroyed one of my plants today. It was struggling a bit anyway, but they finished it off.

122thornton37814
dec 4, 2015, 10:03 am



144. The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver

Date Completed: 3 Dec 2015

Category: Risk

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #2: Read a book that was on your list at the beginning the year as "to read in 2015"

Rating: 3.5 stars

Review: A minister takes his wife and four daughters to Congo to be missionaries at a time of political upheaval in the country. He's terribly ineffective as a minister, husband, and father. The book is told in alternating voices from the female voices. The reader learns a great deal about the influence of this upon each narrator. I don't necessarily believe Kingsolver intends this to be an anti-Christian book. She makes heavy use of the Bible and Apocrypha, particularly Bel and the Dragon, throughout. Rather, I believe she is showing what happens when Christianity is presented in a Pharisaical manner and lived out in such a manner that alienates not only those who need the Gospel, whether a native of a foreign country or a member of one's own family. Kingsolver's writing, as usual, is beautiful. This book did not resonate as well with me as some of the author's other books, but I suspect it is primarily due to the setting. I think I have finally figured out why books set in Africa generally have no appeal to me. Entirely too many snakes are present!

123thornton37814
dec 4, 2015, 10:46 am



145. Brooklyn on Fire by Lawrence H. Levy

Date Completed: 4 Dec 2015

Category: Operation

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #14: Finish a book you started before 01/Dec/15

Rating: 2 stars

Review: Mary Handley is a female private investigator. When her brother is arrested for the murder of his girlfriend, an actress, she sets out to prove his innocence. The plot quickly weakens as the author begins dropping names of New York's upper crust, even engaging Mary to George Vanderbilt. It simply is not believable even though some of the novel is based on real events, and those characters are included, including the investigative team of Mary Handley and Superintendent Campbell. With the exception of the believability factor, the mystery itself is plotted well enough. The final few chapters leave an opening that many of the characters will make repeat appearances in future installments, once again being interviewed by Mary in her investigations. This review is based on an Advance Review Copy provided by the publisher through NetGalley for review purposes.

124thornton37814
dec 4, 2015, 5:17 pm

The kittens and an orange.
Sherlock: I want that peeling. I'm certain. Why won't you give it to me?
Mr. B.: I sniffed it. I don't want it.
Barney: I licked Mommy's hands after she ate. We didn't miss anything.

125thornton37814
Bewerkt: mei 5, 2021, 3:15 pm



146. Murder by Matchlight by E. C. R. Lorac

Date Completed: 4 Dec 2015

Category: Operation

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #13: Read a book by an author who has published at least 12 books

Rating: 3.5 stars

Review: This reprint from the Golden Age of Mysteries features the death of a man known as John Ward on a bridge. Although witnesses catch a glimpse of the murder, his identity is unknown. A small pool of suspects, most of whom reside in the house with the man known as Ward, are interviewed by Inspector MacDonald and his colleagues. Evidence points to "John Ward" being an assumed name and another identity is found for the man which begins to yield motives in the group. While some of the characters could have been a bit more developed, others are sufficiently developed. Although it is not a particularly complicated mystery, it is enjoyable. Dover Publications is doing a great service providing better access to this and other mysteries of the Golden Age. This review is based on an Advance Readers Copy provided by the author through NetGalley with the expectation a review would be written.

126Ameise1
dec 5, 2015, 7:23 am

Wishing you a lovely weekend, Lori.

127thornton37814
dec 5, 2015, 12:14 pm

>126 Ameise1: Thank you, Barbara! It's a lovely holiday candle.

128RebaRelishesReading
dec 5, 2015, 1:10 pm

>122 thornton37814: I read The Poisonwood Bible several years ago and, while I liked it, I found it to be a difficult read because of the harsh behaviors. It made me quite sad, as I recall. I adore many of Kingsolver's more recent books though.

Looks like you've been doing a lot of good reading lately inspire of mothering 3 kittens :)

129thornton37814
dec 5, 2015, 3:34 pm

>128 RebaRelishesReading: Well, I did a lot of listening last month. Hoping to do more actual "reading" this one.

130thornton37814
dec 5, 2015, 8:08 pm



147. The Mandelbaum Gate by Muriel Spark

Date Completed: 5 Dec 2015

Category: Risk

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #2: Read a book that was on your list at the beginning the year as "to read in 2015" (Matched Read)

Rating: 3 stars

Review: The year is 1961. Its a story of Israel and Jordan. It's a story of Jew, Arab, and Christian. Barbara became engaged to archaeologist who must first have his marriage annulled by the church before they can be married. To meet up, one must pass through the Mandelbaum Gate, a checkpoint between the Israeli and Jordanian parts of Jerusalem. We meet many characters in the course of the novel--a headmistress, an official with the English consulate, a brothel owner, a gift shop owner, a family running a travel agency as a front for other activities, and more. The book's genre is difficult to define, containing elements of religion, espionage, politics, and romance. While I appreciate the writing, the novel did not fully resonate with me.

131tymfos
dec 6, 2015, 1:58 pm

>124 thornton37814: LOL!
Sig won't take treats from my hand when I've been handling certain foods.

I liked your review of The Poisonwood Bible.

132thornton37814
dec 6, 2015, 3:18 pm

>131 tymfos: I struggled with the review in my brain even as I was nearing the end of the book.

133thornton37814
dec 6, 2015, 3:20 pm

Kitten moment of the day: I heard all sorts of crashing around in my bathroom. This happens frequently when they are chasing each other throughout the house and end up in the bathtub, sometimes knocking off a bottle of something. The next thing I know, I'm looking in the hallway, and one of the kittens was chewing on the head of my razor. I quickly went and confiscated it before he could injure himself. I'm just glad I use Venus instead of something with less protected blades.

134thornton37814
dec 6, 2015, 5:40 pm



148. What in the World Is Going On? by David Jeremiah

Date Completed: 6 Dec 2015

Category: Clue

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #9: Read a book with the color blue on the cover or the word blue somewhere in the title

Rating: 3.5 stars

Review: Dr. Jeremiah takes a look at Biblical prophecy in light of world events, particular in regards to the Rapture, the Second Coming, and the Antichrist. The book was written seven or eight years ago, and so some parts, such as references to Bush being the current president, are dated. Some of the things he said would escalate did and continue to do so, such as Russia's efforts to regain her former republics. I would love to see a second edition of this book in light of all that is going on with ISIS and other things in the Middle East. While dated in some ways, it remains timely in others.

135Carmenere
dec 7, 2015, 9:02 am

A very belated Happy New Thread to you Lori!! What an adorable video of the kitties! Fun to watch them grow. Are they siblings?

136RebaRelishesReading
dec 7, 2015, 11:59 am

Kitten chewing on a razor -- wow, scary thought!!

137thornton37814
dec 7, 2015, 4:01 pm

>135 Carmenere: They are siblings and litter mates!

>136 RebaRelishesReading: It scared me. That's for certain.

138thornton37814
dec 7, 2015, 11:02 pm

Before I went to work today, I put up the Christmas tree, but I didn't have time to decorate it. I wondered if it would survive three kittens, but I'm happy to report it was still vertical when I arrived home about 9:30 p.m.

139ronincats
dec 7, 2015, 11:19 pm

Always an open question with a kitten, much less three!

140Donna828
dec 8, 2015, 11:05 am

>122 thornton37814: Interesting observation about the snakes in African books. I always think of The Poisonwood Bible as my favorite Kingsolver. I read it a long time ago. I wonder how it would fare as a reread.

I continue to enjoy the kitten stories nd pictures. Lori, I'm glad they bring such joy into your home as you deal with a difficult year.

141thornton37814
dec 8, 2015, 8:22 pm

>139 ronincats: It survived both yesterday and today at work.

>140 Donna828: I'm glad you enjoy the kitten pics because I'm about to post one!

142thornton37814
dec 8, 2015, 8:27 pm

One of the ornaments seems to be moving around an awful lot.



I am not sure the tree will last overnight. I see one ornament down at the moment (although I've already picked up a few).

143Ameise1
dec 9, 2015, 12:32 am

>142 thornton37814: LOL. I remember when our cats were that young. Xmas zree is a feast for them. We put the tree in a playpen that helped very much.

144RebaRelishesReading
dec 9, 2015, 11:48 am

I'm sure the kittens think you've given them the best present ever!

145thornton37814
dec 9, 2015, 4:03 pm

>143 Ameise1: I will find out soon if the tree is still standing. I forgot my black t-shirt to wear in the Living Christmas tree under the ornament collar so I have to run by the house quickly. They won't like my quick departure very much.

>144 RebaRelishesReading: They seem to really enjoy it!

146thornton37814
dec 10, 2015, 6:18 pm

I got a little bit of surprising news at the vet's today. Sherlock (the one in the Christmas tree photo) apparently has only one functioning kidney. His left one is about twice as big as the right one. The vet says he (and many other cats) get along just fine with one kidney. He told me several things to keep an eye on. When I take them for the neutering in February, he'll check him out again. I suspect that we'll make more frequent vet visits with him just to keep an eye on things. He's not too concerned at the moment because Sherlock is active, gaining weight, etc. I love my little detective, and I hate this for him so much! However, I'm going to keep my eye on him so he doesn't meet Reichenbach Falls too early in his life!

147thornton37814
dec 11, 2015, 8:31 am



149. Restless by William Boyd

Date Completed: 10 Dec 2015

Category: Risk

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #18: Read a book written by a famous/prolific author, one whose books you've never tried reading before

Rating: 3 stars

Review: Sally Fairchild Gilmartin reveals her true identity (Eva Delectorskaya) to her daughter Ruth when she believes her life is in danger more than a quarter century after her work as a spy for Great Britain. She believes her daughter is the only one who can help her track down the person to whom she reported back then. She was nearly killed while on a mission in New Mexico by a member of her own team who is still alive. I am not a huge fan of the espionage genre although I tolerate it. This one reads quickly. I think the modern element in the novel weakened the plot although the story would differ somewhat to achieve resolution without the modern story.

148streamsong
dec 11, 2015, 8:38 am

I hope things go well for Sherlock! He sounds like such a sweetie. It does sound promising that he isn't showing any symptoms.

Are you doing the Christmas tree choir this year?

149thornton37814
dec 11, 2015, 9:29 am

>148 streamsong: The first performance is tonight. I think they will be live streaming it nightly at http://www.fbcmtn.com/ at 7 p.m. Eastern Time. I'm on the 5th row, slightly to the left of center as you would see it on the screen.

150thornton37814
dec 11, 2015, 9:38 am



150. A State of Independence by Caryl Phillips

Date Completed: 11 Dec 2015

Category: Hi Ho! Cherry-O

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #20: Read a work in which a party or celebration takes place or has such a word in the title

Rating: 4 stars

Review: Bertram Francis returns to St. Kitts after living in England twenty years. He left the island after winning a scholarship to study abroad, expecting to be gone only three years. St. Kitts is gaining its independence in a few short days. Bertram expects his mother to welcome him, but she tells him to get out of her house. He discovers his brother died, and no one bothered to tell him. He expects his childhood best friend who is now an important official to welcome him, but he tells him to return to England. We find Bertram remembering the way things were and discover how things are now. It's a short read, but one that reminds the reader "You can't go home again."

151thornton37814
dec 11, 2015, 10:14 am



151. The March by E. L. Doctorow

Date Completed: 11 Dec 2015

Category: Risk

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #13: Read a book by an author who has published at least 12 books

Rating: 3 stars

Review: Wishing I could say I loved this one, but ultimately it fell a bit flat. It's an account of Sherman's march to the sea through the eyes of a couple of former slaves, including one that could pass for white if her speech did not betray her, the daughter of an important judge who died as the march reached his home, and some minor characters whose stories are brief and not carried throughout the book. I listened to the book and that may hav been the biggest problem. It plodded along too slowly for me. The stories that comprise the novel appear well-written, but the pace made my mind wonder to other things and did not maintain my interest.

152RebaRelishesReading
dec 11, 2015, 10:57 am

Poor little Sherlock! I hope he's one of those who does just fine with only one kidney.

153Ameise1
dec 12, 2015, 6:48 am

I'm sure that Sherlock will be fine. Wishing you a wonderful weekend, Lori.

154thornton37814
dec 12, 2015, 3:42 pm

>152 RebaRelishesReading: I hope he will be also. So far he seems to be thriving in spite of it.

>153 Ameise1: So far, so good. He's curled up next to me on the couch. The other two are on the bed taking their naps.

155thornton37814
dec 12, 2015, 4:11 pm



It's that time of year again. Our Living Christmas Tree will be live streaming at 7 p.m. Eastern time tonight (Saturday 12 Dec 2015) and tomorrow night (Sunday 13 Dec 2015) at http://www.fbcmtn.com

We'd love for you to join us in celebrating "Christmas Around the World."

I should be in the 5th row on the left side as you are watching unless I get moved elsewhere at the last minute.

156PaulCranswick
dec 13, 2015, 4:23 am

Lovely tree Lori.

Have a great Sunday.

157thornton37814
Bewerkt: dec 13, 2015, 1:17 pm

>156 PaulCranswick: Paul, I think my favorite shot of the tree is this one:



It's at the close of "Tennessee Christmas." You can't tell from the picture, but the tree lights are an orange and white checkerboard on it too.

158thornton37814
dec 14, 2015, 5:31 pm



152. Murder at Hatfield House by Amanda Carmack

Date Completed: 14 Dec 2015

Category: Hi Ho! Cherry-O

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #8: Read a book that is set in Tudor England

Rating: 3 stars

Review: Set during the time Bloody Mary ruled, this novel depicts Kate Haywood who works with Princess Elizabeth at Hatfield House where the tyrannical queen has placed her. Lord Braceton, in the Queen's service, comes to visit, and one of the men accompanying him is murdered. He arrives at the house accusing members of the household of the murder. More deaths occur. Kate's father, a musician, is arrested. Kate is one of the few members of the household Elizabeth trusts. She sets out to investigate. The novel is a blend of fictitious and historical characters. While it is enjoyable, too much of the action stretches the imagination. C. J. Sansom creates a more successful mystery set in this time period.

159thornton37814
dec 16, 2015, 9:36 pm

My Christmas Swap package arrived on Monday. I did not see it until Tuesday morning when I found it pulled into my yarn with the corners damaged by my neighbors dogs. This evening I discovered that a replacement ornament I ordered was delivered by USPS the same day. The package is nowhere to be found although it was supposed to have been delivered to my garage door according to the tracking. When I unpacked ornaments, I discovered that my 1990 Cincinnati Reds World Series Championship ornament was broken. I found a replacement on EBAY (actually 2 balls they were selling together). I was so excited that I was going to be able to replace them and now it appears that I paid over $30 for replacements I'll never see. I'm going to the post office tomorrow with the tracking number and telling them what I think happened to them. I'm going to take the Swap package that arrived the same day as evidence as well. I'll see if they will look for the packages or confront the lousy neighbor. I'm fed up with her. She keeps using my driveway to drive into her yard, but she has to drive in my yard to do that and ruins my grass as well as hers. Now her dogs are destroying stuff in my yard. I'm fed up!

160thornton37814
dec 16, 2015, 11:20 pm



153. The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy by Jeanne Birdsall

Category: Hi Ho! Cherry-O

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #1: Read a book with the word “adventure” somewhere on the outside of the book

Rating: 4.5 stars

Review:What a delightful book for young readers! The Penderwick family -- father, four daughters, and dog -- are renting a cottage on Cape Cod for summer vacation. They enjoy fun adventures, make friends with the boy who lives in the main house, and occasionally take part in mischief. It has the feel of a simpler time and place although the setting is more current. It would make a great summer read for elementary readers who read at a third grade level or above.

161Ameise1
dec 19, 2015, 8:08 am

Wishing you a lovely weekend, Lori.

162thornton37814
dec 19, 2015, 9:03 pm

>161 Ameise1: That fire looks very cozy! Hope you have a good one too.

163thornton37814
dec 19, 2015, 9:20 pm



154. The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman

Date Completed: 19 Dec 2015

Category: Clue

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #16: Read a book of nonfiction

Rating: 5 stars

Review: This updated edition (2015) of Dr. Chapman's classic work on communicating love to a spouse makes the book just as relevant today as when it was first published. Couples need to identify each other's love language and express their love to the other through the recipient's love language. He discusses the temporal concept of "falling in love" and shows how lasting love is not built on this euphoric state but rather by expressing love to your spouse through his or her love language. A test to help determine one's language is included, but the author discusses other ways of determining it throughout the book. Sometimes the simplest concepts are the most difficult to learn and put into practice. The book stands the test of the time and would be beneficial to married couples everywhere. Editions for singles and children also exist.

164paulstalder
Bewerkt: dec 20, 2015, 8:56 am

Hej Lori, delurk to say hello.
I find the Living Christmas Tree quite impessive - we don't have so big a church here.
I noticed that one of your kittens has changed its sex: you introduced her as Miss Bossy >19 thornton37814:, and then changed it Mr. B >29 thornton37814:, interesting.
>163 thornton37814: I like this book. It was a very enriching and challenging read.

165streamsong
dec 20, 2015, 11:06 am

Hi Lori; - I didn't make it to watch your live online performance, since, with the time difference I was still at work. Is there a recorded link? I know I enjoyed it last year.

166thornton37814
dec 20, 2015, 11:50 am

>164 paulstalder: I did think he was a girl early on. The kittens were all so skittish that I was looking quickly, and I thought the distance was different with this one's genitals. Discovered I had all boys. Regarding the book, I'm reading the one for Singles now. When I went to write the review, I discovered that I had the other one somewhere around here in a box. I tracked it down last night and began it. I'll see how different it is from the couples version.

>165 streamsong: Brooks has not uploaded it yet. I'm not sure what is taking so long this year. I'll post a link as soon as it's online.

167ronincats
dec 20, 2015, 2:11 pm

*Ahem* Time for more kitten pictures!!

168thornton37814
dec 20, 2015, 5:39 pm

>167 ronincats: Oops - I posted it in one thread but not this one.

169weird_O
Bewerkt: dec 20, 2015, 5:44 pm

>159 thornton37814: So you live next door to the Bumpuses! You have my condolences.

170thornton37814
dec 20, 2015, 9:03 pm

>169 weird_O: Yesterday, the package mysteriously appeared at my doorstep. The box was almost in pieces, but the ornaments had been packed so well by the shipper that they survived the dog assault.

171thornton37814
dec 21, 2015, 11:22 am



155. The Five Love Languages for Singles by Gary Chapman

Date Completed: 21 Dec 2015

Category: Clue

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #16: Read a book of nonfiction

Rating: 4 stars

Review: When I began reading this, I wondered how it would differ from his well-regarded book intended for couples. The singles edition contains more information about relating to family members and to co-workers and speaking their languages. Although the book does contain information on dating and applying the five love languages to relationships, the book is far broader, seeking to be a guide for all aspects of a single person's life. This book is on one of the course reserve lists at our university library, and I can see why the professor wanted to use it for the class. It is a great book for a college student or other young adult who is dealing with roommate issues, with dynamics in a work place, and with changed relationships in families due to moving out. Single parents will also find the information in the book useful. Older singles may find it easier to apply the principles in the book for couples than for this one, particularly if parents have died or if they do not have children of their own.

172thornton37814
dec 21, 2015, 12:27 pm

I am currently packing for my Christmas trip to see family members. I decided to open my "Christmas Swap" package which came from Vivian before I left to see if I wanted to pack any of the titles. I really think I want to save them all to savor in the new year although the Batali book is going to get a quick perusal when I have a chance to take a break from laundry, packing, and candy making in a bit.



Thanks so much, Vivian! You did an excellent job choosing books. I can't wait to dig in.

173thornton37814
dec 21, 2015, 8:21 pm

Sherlock is a big help wrapping gifts:

174thornton37814
dec 21, 2015, 8:33 pm

My 2016 thread is posted (for those who want to follow it): https://www.librarything.com/topic/208641

175Carmenere
dec 22, 2015, 8:21 am

>173 thornton37814: Ha ha! easy to see how Sherlock earned his name!

Happy Holidays Lori and

176tymfos
dec 22, 2015, 4:41 pm

>142 thornton37814: Lori, that's the cutest, liveliest tree "ornament" I've ever seen!

>168 thornton37814: Awwww. . . :)

>173 thornton37814: Sig tried to give me some similar "help" the other day.

>151 thornton37814: Hmm, the post number matches the book number on this one! Sorry you didn't like The March more. It's been on my radar for ages, and our library has it.

>172 thornton37814: Your Christmas Swap package looks good. I thought Dark Tide was fascinating. I read it years ago (pre LT) after seeing the author on Book TV.

177Ameise1
dec 23, 2015, 10:41 am



Sorry, also posted it on the 2016 thread. Shame on me.

178nittnut
dec 23, 2015, 3:09 pm

179ronincats
dec 23, 2015, 3:10 pm



For my Christmas/Hanukkah/Solstice/Holiday image this year (we are so diverse!), I've chosen this photograph by local photographer Mark Lenoce of the pier at Pacific Beach to express my holiday wishes to you: Peace on Earth and Good Will toward All!

180Familyhistorian
dec 24, 2015, 12:39 am



Merry Christmas!

181FAMeulstee
dec 24, 2015, 8:19 am

>150 thornton37814: Congrats at reaching 150, nice coincedence it was msg 150 on your thread ;-)

Happy holidays!

182johnsimpson
dec 24, 2015, 8:22 am

Hi Lori, sending Christmas greetings to you my dear, hope you have a lovely day. Sending love and hugs.

183cbl_tn
dec 24, 2015, 9:09 am

Just checked in with Lori, who is in MS where there were bad storms and tornadoes yesterday. The worst storms missed her brother's where she's staying, but were close to her recently deceased brother's family. Her SIL is without power but otherwise OK. Lori's brother has limited wifi service so she isn't able to check in much when she's there.

184susanj67
dec 24, 2015, 11:14 am

>183 cbl_tn: Thanks for the update, Carrie. Lori, if you don't see this till after Christmas, best wishes for 2016. If you do, then happy Christmas too! And congratulations on reaching 150 :-)

185lkernagh
dec 24, 2015, 11:23 am


186RebaRelishesReading
dec 24, 2015, 3:18 pm

Happy holidays to you, your family and the kittens, Lori.


187PaulCranswick
dec 24, 2015, 5:36 pm



Have a lovely holiday, Lori

188Donna828
dec 25, 2015, 7:12 pm


I'm glad the storms didn't wreak too much havoc where you are, Lori. Happy Holidays!

189Berly
dec 26, 2015, 3:55 pm


190tymfos
dec 26, 2015, 8:09 pm

I hope you had a nice Christmas, Lori!

191thornton37814
dec 28, 2015, 12:16 am

>175 Carmenere: Sherlock is a very fitting name for him. He's always investigating something. Hope you had a great holiday.

>176 tymfos: Glad you are enjoying the kitten pictures. You might like The March better than I did. I suspect I might have preferred it in print format instead of audio so I could speed-read through sections that bogged down for me. I'll get around to reading those Christmas swap books soon I hope!

>177 Ameise1: That's okay! It's pretty here too!

192thornton37814
dec 28, 2015, 12:18 am

>178 nittnut: Hope you had a Merry Christmas also!

>179 ronincats: Your local photographer does a great job! Hope you had a great holiday!

>180 Familyhistorian: LOL!

193thornton37814
dec 28, 2015, 12:20 am

>181 FAMeulstee: I hadn't even noticed that coincidence, but that was neat!

>182 johnsimpson: Thanks so much! Hope you had a great Christmas too.

>183 cbl_tn: Carrie is correct! The wifi signal here is iffy, especially when the weather is as wet as it has been. If you have Dish Internet, I'm sure you understand.

194thornton37814
dec 28, 2015, 12:22 am

>184 susanj67: I actually saw it the night before I'm leaving for home. I think I'll have bad weather most of the drive, but I'm ready to be home, and I think the kittens will be glad to be also.

>185 lkernagh: Thanks, Lori! Hope you had a Merry Christmas and will have a Happy New Year!

>186 RebaRelishesReading: The kittens thank you, and so do I. Hope you had a wonderful Christmas too.

195thornton37814
dec 28, 2015, 12:25 am

>187 PaulCranswick: Love that one, Paul!

>188 Donna828: I took some video of the damage near where my sister-in-law lives. She was without power for two days. She thought it would be longer, but they actually got it back on late Christmas night. She was only a few miles from the most destructive one. We had a tornado pass within 5 miles of us, but fortunately it did not touch down and didn't go directly over us.

>189 Berly: The present everyone wants under their tree!

>190 tymfos: Thanks, Terri! It was okay -- just different. I don't think Christmas will ever be the same after all the family losses this past year.

196thornton37814
dec 28, 2015, 12:31 am

I need to review The Inimitable Jeeves which I finished on audio the day after Christmas. I'm kind of waiting until I have a better Internet connection when I get home tomorrow. It won't receive a very high rating.

197jnwelch
dec 28, 2015, 2:15 pm

Happy Holidays, Lori!

I'm glad the weather havoc didn't hit you. Tornado within 5 miles, yikes.

I love the Jeeves and Bertie stories. Wouldn't it be nice to have a Jeeves taking care of you?

198thornton37814
dec 28, 2015, 7:31 pm

>197 jnwelch: I don't know. I wasn't that enamored. He does have a knack for handling situations though. Maybe he could take care of one situation for me!

199thornton37814
dec 28, 2015, 8:19 pm



156. The Inimitable Jeeves by P. G. Wodehouse

Date Completed: 26 Dec 2015

Category: Scrabble

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #13: Read a book by an author who has published at least 12 books

Rating: 2 stars

Review: I found this first installment of Bertie and Jeeves to be rather tiresome. The adventures sometimes featured Aunt Agatha, a friend named Bingo who had an uncle that also figure prominently, and a string of female acquaintances of Bingo's. I wonder if part of the reason I grew tired of it is the similarity in plot of several of the stories that loosely belong sequentially together and the continued "introduction" to some of the characters. It was first serialized and later put into book form. Jeeves does have a way of handling most any situation. I listened to the audio version of the book. I suspect others might enjoy it more than I did. I'm not much into gambling, and that was central to several stories.

200thornton37814
dec 28, 2015, 10:26 pm

I'm totally excited! I'm getting the DNA book I requested from Early Reviewers!

201thornton37814
dec 28, 2015, 10:33 pm



157. Why Was the Partridge in the Pear Tree?: The History of Christmas Carols by Mark Lawson-Jones

Date Completed: 28 Dec 2015

Category: Operation

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #16: Read a book of nonfiction

Rating: 4 stars

Review: If you love Christmas Carols, this is a book for you. It tells the story behind several Christmas carols as well as providing some overview chapters in the beginning. The carols included are "The Coventry Carol," "The Twelve Days of Christmas," "The Holly and the Ivy," "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," "O Come All Ye Faithful," "Angels from the Realms of Glory," "Silent Night, Holy Night," "Once in Royal David's City," "Good King Wenceslas," and "In the Bleak Midwinter." While I wish other carols had also been included, the author does a great job treating the ones he did include.

202Familyhistorian
dec 29, 2015, 12:45 am

>200 thornton37814: Which DNA book is that, Lori? I tend to skip over the ones that aren't available for my country.

203Berly
dec 29, 2015, 3:24 am

>157 thornton37814: I am not much of a NF fan, but that one sounds very interesting! Thanks for posting your review. Glad your area survived all the crazy weather. Happy holidays!!

204thornton37814
dec 29, 2015, 9:34 am

>202 Familyhistorian: The Social Life of DNA by Alondra Nelson. It's being released mid-January. It's the only book I requested last month because I wanted it so much.

>203 Berly: I did find it interesting. I was having trouble finding any Christmas books available for checkout through my library's e-book system. I'd tried all the ones on my wish list. I finally decided to just search on Christmas. I found that one and one fiction one that I'm currently reading. I thought I'd have more time before Christmas and while I was at my brother's to read than I did. Just too many people around, and they arrived sooner that I expected.

205thornton37814
dec 29, 2015, 12:18 pm

After my sister-in-law bought my kittens collars for Christmas, they can no longer sneak up on me. I call them my "Jingle Cats."

206kidzdoc
dec 29, 2015, 3:52 pm

207thornton37814
dec 29, 2015, 6:31 pm



158. The Nightingale Before Christmas by Donna Andrews

Date Completed: 29 Dec 2015

Category: Operation

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #13: Read a book by an author who has published at least 12 books

Rating: 3.5 stars

Review: It's almost Christmas in Caerphilly. Meg Langslow is coordinating the show for local interior decorators which is being held in a home that has ben empty for six years during a foreclosure process and which is bank-owned. When a decorator no one loves turns up dead, most of the designers end up being suspects. As more is learned about the man and about the house itself, additional motives are uncovered. It's always fun to visit with Meg and company, and this makes for a quick and fun Christmas mystery read.

208thornton37814
dec 29, 2015, 8:19 pm



159. Tied Up In Tinsel by Ngaio Marsh

Date Completed: 29 Dec 2015

Category: Scrabble

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #4: Read a mystery that has something odd or unexpected in the title

Rating: 4 stars

Review: Hilary Bill-Tasman owns a large country estate which is staffed by ex-convicts. Alleyn's wife Troy has gone there to paint a portrait. Hilary's aunt and uncle and their servant, Hilary's fiancee, and a couple others are among the guests. Hilary holds a Christmas pageant, and his uncle's servant disappears afterwards. Alleyn ends up coming for a visit when his wife reports strange goings-on. Although he tries to leave it to the local officials, he ends up on the case. I guessed the murderer fairly early on, but I still enjoyed the way it unfolded. I listened to the audio version of this book available on Overdrive through my public library. The narrator did a good job.

209Familyhistorian
dec 30, 2015, 12:42 am

>204 thornton37814: I look forward to seeing what you thought about that book, Lori. A January release - I wonder if it will be out at the same time here.

210thornton37814
dec 30, 2015, 9:03 am

>209 Familyhistorian: I don't know, but I'm looking forward to receiving it and reading it.

One of my friends posted this article to Facebook. I found it interesting and relevant for LibraryThingers: http://www.vox.com/2015/12/29/10634416/reading-list-books

211thornton37814
dec 30, 2015, 12:23 pm



160. Fludd by Hilary Mantel

Date Completed: 30 Dec 2015

Category: Operation

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #13: Read a book by an author who has published at least 12 books

Rating: 4 stars

Review: Mantel gives us a glimpse into the priesthood and into convent life in Fludd. The setting is Fetherhoughton, a rather miserable mill town. Father Angwin struggles with alcoholism. In fact, he really no longer believes in God. Fludd, who is believed to be the curate sent by the bishop to assist in the parish, arrives and insists upon changes. He even convinced the mother in charge of the convent to allow him to see into the room containing the belongings of the nuns as they entered convent life. We see the struggles and temptations faced by the nuns as well. Fludd is based upon an alchemist who lived in the late 1500s and early 1600s. I am a bit disappointed that none of the major characters are committed to their vows, but the novel is still quite worthwhile. The novel contains quite a few "sound bites" that are quotable.

212thornton37814
dec 30, 2015, 3:04 pm



161. A Christmas Escape by Anne Perry

Date Completed: 30 Dec 2015

Category: Clue

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #13: Read a book by an author who has published at least 12 books

Rating: 3.5 stars

Review: Charles Latterly visits the island of Stromboli to get away for Christmas. He meets a couple who doesn't get along, a retired Colonel, an author, and a young girl and her great uncle who takes charge. The owner of the hostel where they are staying assures them the volcano on the island is always rumbling but that the lava never flows their way. Soon one of the group disappears and is found dead. When murder is discovered, Charles is certain that the murderer is among those remaining. A volcanic eruption takes out two more of the group, but Charles is certain the murderer will be accompanying them as they make their way to the sea to escape. A quick and fun Christmas read! This book was received through LibraryThing's Early Reviewer program in exchange for a review.

213thornton37814
dec 30, 2015, 4:07 pm



162. Art from Simple Shapes: Making Art from 8 Simple Geometric Shapes! by Rosa M. Curto

Date Completed: 30 Dec 2015

Category: Operation

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #16: Read a book of nonfiction

Rating: 4 stars

Review: Using just a few basic geometric patterns, children learn to draw many things. Most of the patterns require a few additional strokes to complete the design. Some designs are more difficult than others. It's a great book for teaching children the art of drawing. I received an advance e-galley of the book from the publisher through NetGalley for review purposes.

214thornton37814
dec 30, 2015, 4:10 pm



163. The Art of Cookery Made Plain and Easy: The Revolutionary 1805 Classic by Hannah Glasse

Date Completed: 30 Dec 2015

Category: Operation

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #16: Read a book of nonfiction

Rating: 4 stars

Review: It's difficult to review and rate a cookbook written for another time and place. As I read through the recipes, or perhaps I should call them receipts, I could not help but be thankful that much of the preparations that went into a meal at the turn of the 19th century are no longer required. We are able to go to the grocery store and pick up meat that has already been skinned, cut, and often deboned for us. Thanks to our transportation systems, foods that once were seasonal are often available year-round. This book must have been, as its title suggests, revolutionary for its time. It includes recipes that were inspired by the British West Indies and America. One can find recipes for haggis, moonshine, and lip balms, as well as the meats, vegetables, and sweets likely to be placed on the table. I could not help but think that Hannah Glasse must have been the Julia Child, or at least the Martha Stewart, of her time. This review is based on an e-galley provided by the publisher through NetGalley for review purposes.

215thornton37814
dec 30, 2015, 4:20 pm

I know that I'll have at least one more book for the year. I'd like to find a short book that I can complete tomorrow to make it an even 165. I won't have much time for reading this evening. I'm attending the 25th Anniversary Concert of Greater Vision, a Southern Gospel group. It's a ticketed event, but it's being held at my church. The Mark Trammell Quartet will also be with them. Mark was the group's original baritone.

216thornton37814
dec 30, 2015, 4:41 pm

Finally, they have posted this year's Living Christmas Tree: http://fbcmtn.com/content.cfm?id=213&download_id=1284

The theme is "Christmas for All the World."

217kidzdoc
dec 30, 2015, 8:10 pm

Nice review of Fludd, Lori. I have a copy of it, but I haven't read it yet.

Mmm, haggis...

218thornton37814
dec 30, 2015, 11:24 pm

>217 kidzdoc: I purchased my copy from Amazon Kindle so a lot of the "sound bites" were already "dotted." Yes. There was a recipe for haggis in that one. As I pointed out on one of my other threads, the book is in public domain so you can download it from Internet Archive. Mine was a reprint from Dover Publications (in e-book format). I think they'll sell a few copies to cookbook collectors though.

219thornton37814
dec 31, 2015, 9:38 am



164. Holy Bible: New American Standard Bible

Date Completed: 31 Dec 2015

Category: Clue

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #2: Read a book that was on your list at the beginning the year as "to read in 2015"

Rating: 5 stars

Review: This isn't really a review. It is more like comments. The New American Standard Bible remains my favorite translation of the Bible. I received my first copy of it back in the 1970s, and it is well-worn. I used the One Year Bible reading plan on my iPad's YouVersion app. I had to switch to NASB almost daily because that particular plan wanted to make you read the New Living Translation. I'm not a fan of paraphrases so I had no desire to read the NLT although I understand it is more accurate than its predecessor, The Living Bible. I wanted to go back to the version I loved best. The NASB is known for its accuracy in translating the original languages. Some people find this to be troublesome because sometimes the wording becomes a bit awkward for the modern ear; however, I enjoy it, especially for Bible study, because it more accurately reflects the original intent of the Biblical passages.

One more comment: This is not the cover on my Bible. Mine is just black leather with faded lettering on the spine only

220thornton37814
Bewerkt: dec 31, 2015, 10:06 am

My SantaThing books arrived yesterday.



If you notice, there is a little paw appearing at the edge of the above photo. This is what soon happened:



SylviaC did a great job selecting books.

221kidzdoc
dec 31, 2015, 10:23 am

Nice set of new books (and even nicer kitten), Lori. I look forward to your thoughts about Genome.

222thornton37814
dec 31, 2015, 10:31 am

>221 kidzdoc: Thanks, Daryl. If I'd been a little quicker instead of awaiting the right pose, I could have gotten all three kittens with the books.

223johnsimpson
dec 31, 2015, 12:49 pm

Hi Lori, wishing you a very Happy New Year my dear and sending special love and hugs.

224thornton37814
dec 31, 2015, 5:45 pm

>223 johnsimpson: Thanks a lot! I'm definitely hoping that 2016 is better than 2015.

225thornton37814
dec 31, 2015, 7:10 pm



165. Favourite Welsh Recipes

Date Completed: 31 Dec 2015

Category: Clue

TIOLI Challenge: Challenge #16: Read a book of nonfiction

Rating: 3.5 stars

Review: This little recipe booklet gives one an idea of the fare served in Wales. Lamb seems to be the favorite meat. Several of the recipes do not seem very palatable for most Americans; however, that is to be expected with almost any cuisine. I'm most likely to try something like the Potato Pie, Wedding Night Pasty, Welsh Rice Pudding, Welsh Beef Stew, Egg Whey, Dee Salmon Fish Cakes, or Welsh Border Tart. A few others sounded like something I'd try. The authors did tell a little about each recipe or about an ingredient in a recipe and its popularity in the Welsh culture. My favorite part of the book, however, were the watercolor paintings scattered throughout the book with scenes from Wales. While a book this small cannot be comprehensive, this one does a good job for its size.

226tymfos
dec 31, 2015, 7:13 pm

>220 thornton37814: Nice books, and such an adorable kitty! Oh, my!

227thornton37814
dec 31, 2015, 7:17 pm

My reading for the year is complete. It is time to do the end-of-the-year meme which is based on books read in 2015.

Describe yourself: Walking a Literary Labyrinth

Describe how you feel: Restless

Describe where you currently live: The Strange Library

If you could go anywhere, where would you go: Choosing Charleston

Your favorite form of transportation: Locomotive

Your best friend is: Daisy Miller

You and your friends are: The Hurricane Sisters

What’s the weather like: Clouds Without Rain

You fear: Creepy Carrots

What is the best advice you have to give: A Prayer Journal

Thought for the day: Why Was the Partridge in the Pear Tree?

How I would like to die: Read and Buried

My soul’s present condition: Journey

228tymfos
dec 31, 2015, 7:20 pm

Love your meme answers -- especially the last one, regarding your soul's condition.

229thornton37814
dec 31, 2015, 7:34 pm

That was the best I could do for that one. It worked though.

230thornton37814
Bewerkt: dec 31, 2015, 9:28 pm

Best of 2015

Best Children's Picture Book: The Right Word: Roget and His Thesaurus by Jen Bryant; illustrated by Melissa Sweet
Best Children's/YA Book: The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy by Jeanne Birdsall
Best Cookbook: The Chinese Takeout Cookbook by Diana Kuan
Best Nonfiction: The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman
Best Fiction: (tie)
The Long Song by Andrea Levy
Red Bones by Ann Cleeves

Honorable Mentions:

Nonfiction:
The Cherokee Struggle to Maintain Identity in the 17th and 18th Centuries by William R. Reynolds
Leisure and Spirituality: Biblical, Historical, and Contemporary Perspectives by Paul Heintzman

Fiction:
The Antelope Wife by Louise Erdrich
The Moon and Sixpence by W. Somerset Maugham
The Secret River by Kate Grenville
The Hog's Back Mystery by Freeman Wills Crofts
The Fitzgerald Ruse by Mark de Castrique
Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
The Lie by Helen Dunmore
Clouds Without Rain by P. L. Gaus

231thornton37814
jan 1, 2016, 6:38 pm

For those who haven't found it yet, here's the link to my first 2016 thread: https://www.librarything.com/topic/208641