MickyFine Roars Through 2020, Out Past Curfew

I'm Micky, 34-year-old librarian and general reading nerd. I'm a collections librarian for the public library system in Edmonton and as a result I read a solid chunk of non-fiction as I select it for work every day. The rest of my reading is a wide mix of genres but there's usually a healthy dose of romance, fantasy, graphic novels, and historical fiction in the mix. I don't have any big reading goals this year, although I might dabble in the BookRiot Read Harder challenge for the year. In addition to books, I'm likely to discuss life events (sometimes featuring Mr. Fine), whatever I'm watching on TV, and our cats, Smee & Ash. Posters and lurkers alike are welcome.

January
1. The Night Mark - Tiffany Reisz
2. Spider-Gwen: The Life of Gwen Stacy - Jason Latour
3. The Bookish Life of Nina Hill - Abbi Waxman
4. Spider-Man/Spider-Gwen: Sitting in a Tree - Brian Michael Bendis & Jason Latour
5. Teen Titans: Year One - Amy Wolfram
6. Ayesha at Last - Uzma Jalaluddin
7. Shades of Magic: The Steel Prince: Night of Knives - V.E. Schwab
8. The Psychology of Time Travel - Kate Mascarenhas
9. An Inspector Calls - J.B. Priestley
10. And Dangerous to Know - Darcie Wilde
11. The Bodies in the Library - Marty Wingate
12. F-Bomb: Dispatches from the War on Feminism - Lauren McKeon
13. Cabin Pressure, Series 1 - John Finnemore (re-read)
14. Cabin Pressure, Series 2 - John Finnemore (re-read)
15. Outlander - Diana Gabaldon (re-read)
16. Northanger Abbey - Val McDermid
Favourite(s):


February
17. Book, Line, and Sinker - Jenn McKinlay
18. Kill the Farm Boy - Delilah S. Dawson and Kevin Hearne
19. Cabin Pressure, Series 3 - John Finnemore (re-read)
20. One Hundred Years of Struggle: The History of Women and the Vote in Canada - Joan Sangster
21. Marilla of Green Gables - Sarah McCoy
22. Paper Girls Volume 1 - Brian K. Vaughan
23. Cabin Pressure, Series 4 - John Finnemore (re-read)
24. Emily Climbs - L.M. Montgomery
25. Lumberjanes: Indoor Recess - Shannon Watters & Kat Leyh
26. Magic for Beginners - Kelly Link
27. Fry's English Delight, Series 1 - Stephen Fry
28. Josie and the Pussycats, Vol. 1 - Marguerite Bennett & Cameron DeOrdio
29. The Undrowned Child - Michelle Lovric
30. Paper Girls Volume 2 - Brian K. Vaughan
31. Fry's English Delight, Series 2 - Stephen Fry
32. Paper Girls Volume 3 - Brian K. Vaughan
33. Paper Girls Volume 4 - Brian K. Vaughan
34. Paper Girls Volume 5 - Brian K. Vaughan
35. Fry's English Delight, Series 3 - Stephen Fry
36. Fry's English Delight: Word Games - Stephen Fry
37. Lord John and the Brotherhood of the Blade - Diana Gabaldon
Favourite(s):


March
38. Dream Lake - Lisa Kleypas
39. Fry's English Delight, Series 4 - Stephen Fry
40. Naughty on Ice - Maia Chance
41. Valour and Vanity - Mary Robinette Kowal
42. Fry's English Delight, Series 5 - Stephen Fry
43. Magpie Murders - Anthony Horowitz
44. Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake - Sarah MacLean
45. Paper Girls Vol. 6 - Brian K. Vaughan
46. Information Hunters: When Librarians, Soldiers, and Spies Banded Together in World War II Europe - Kathy Peiss
Favourite(s):

April
47. Howl's Moving Castle - Diana Wynne Jones
48. Peculiar Questions and Practical Answers - NYPL
49. Mythos - Stephen Fry (re-read)
50. Eating Korea: Reports on a Culinary Renaissance - Graham Holliday
51. Star-Crossed: A Novel - Minnie Darke
52. If All the Seas Were Ink - Ilana Kurshan
53. The (Post) Mistress - Tomson Highway
54. A Darker Shade of Magic - V.E. Schwab (re-read)
55. A Gathering of Shadows - V.E. Schwab (re-read)
Favourite(s):


May
56. A Conjuring of Light - V.E. Schwab (re-read)
57. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone - J.K. Rowling (re-read)
58. Jane of Austin - Hillary Manton Lodge
59. Nemesis - Agatha Christie
60. When a Duchess Says I Do - Grace Burrowes
Favourite(s):


June
61. Miles Morales: Spider-Man - Jason Reynolds
62. Flamebringer - Elle Katharine White
63. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets - J.K. Rowling (re-read)
64. Ink and Bone - Rachel Caine
65. Shades of Magic: The Steel Prince: The Rebel Army - V.E. Schwab
66. Heroes - Stephen Fry
67. The School for Scandal - Richard Brinsley Sheridan
68. Anna and the French Kiss - Stephanie Perkins (re-read)
69. I Capture the Castle - Dodie Smith
70. She Stoops to Conquer - Oliver Goldsmith
71. Vanity Fair - William Makepeace Thackeray
72. Jane Eyre - Charlotte Bronte
Favourite(s):

Mine

July
73. Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors - Sonali Dev
74. Howards End - E.M. Forster
75. Thank You, Jeeves - P.G. Wodehouse
76. Tom's Midnight Garden - Philippa Pearce
77. War of the Worlds - H.G. Wells
78. Antigone - Jean Anouilh
79. Die Mommie Die - Charles Busch
80. The Invasion of the Tearling - Erika Johansen
81. Hedda Gabler - Henrik Ibsen
82. Behind the Sheet - Charly Evon Simpson
83. Oslo - J.T. Rogers
84. Suitors and Sabotage - Cindy Anstey
85. Macbeth - William Shakespeare
86. The Three Musketeers - Alexandre Dumas
87. Twelve Angry Men - Reginald Rose
88. The Cherry Orchard - Anton Chekhov
89. Copenhagen - Michael Frayn
90. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban - J.K. Rowling (re-read)
91. No Country for Old Gnomes - Delilah S. Dawson and Kevin Hearne
92. Agnes of God - John Pielmeier
93. 8 - Dustin Lance Black
94. 4:50 from Paddington - Agatha Christie
95. Bogaazan! - Akira Hayasaka
96. Virgin River - Robyn Carr
97. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire - J.K. Rowling (re-read)
98. Please Continue - Frank Basloe
Favourite(s):


August
99. The Duke and I - Julia Quinn
100. Young Victoria - Juliet Ace
101. The George Bernard Shaw Collection - George Bernard Shaw
102. Midnight Sun - Stephenie Meyer
103. The Little Foxes - Lillian Hellman
104. Pressure - David Haig
105. Sisters Matsumoto - Philip Kan Gotanda
106. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings - Maya Angelou (dramatization)
107. Six Degrees of Separation - John Guare
108. A Streetcar Named Desire - Tennessee Williams
109. Ten Ways to Be Adored When Landing a Lord - Sarah MacLean
110. Fool - Christopher Moore
111. The Viscount Who Loved Me - Julia Quinn
112. An Offer from a Gentleman - Julia Quinn
113. All Systems Red - Martha Wells
114. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix - J.K. Rowling (re-read)
Favourite(s):


September
115. They Called Us Enemy - George Takei et. al.
116. Herding Cats - Sarah Andersen
117. Sex and Vanity - Kevin Kwan
118. Beneath the Sugar Sky - Seanan McGuire
119. Lumberjanes: X Marks the Spot - Shannon Watters & Kat Leyh
120. Love in the Blitz - Eileen Alexander
121. Artificial Condition - Martha Wells
122. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince - J.K. Rowling (re-read)
123. Lord John and the Hand of Devils - Diana Gabaldon
124. Romancing Mr. Bridgerton - Julia Quinn
125. Rogue Protocol - Martha Wells
126. To Sir Phillip, With Love - Julia Quinn
127. Lumberjanes: Birthday Smarty - Shannon Watters & Kat Leyh
128. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - J.K. Rowling (re-read)
129. The Little Bookshop of Lonely Hearts - Annie Darling
Favourite(s):

October
130. Shades of Grey - Jasper Fforde
131. Do You Have Kids? Life When the Answer Is No - Kate Kaufman
132. The Jane Austen BBC Radio Drama Collection - Jane Austen
133. The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue - V.E. Schwab
134. Exit Strategy - Martha Wells
135. Piranesi - Susanna Clarke
136. Giant Days Volume 3 - John Allison & Max Sarin
137. Solutions and Other Problems - Allie Brosh
138. Design for Dying - Renee Patrick
139. When He Was Wicked - Julia Quinn
140. The Ladies of Grace Adieu and Other Stories - Susanna Clarke
Favourite(s):


November
141. The Bad Seed - Jory John & Pete Oswald
142. The Good Egg - Jory John & Pete Oswald
143. The Cool Bean - Jory John & Pete Oswald
144. The Duke Who Didn't - Courtney Milan
145. Mary Shelley's Frankenstein - Kate McAll
146. A Deadly Education - Naomi Novik
147. Giant Days Volume 4 - John Allison & Max Sarin
148. The Couch Potato - Jory John & Pete Oswald
149. Baking with Kafka - Tom Gauld
150. Camp Austen - Ted Scheinman
151. Giant Days Volume 5 - John Allison & Max Sarin
152. Giant Days Volume 6 - John Allison & Max Sarin
153. At Love's Command - Karen Witemeyer
154. The House in the Cerulean Sea - TJ Klune
155. The Constant Rabbit - Jasper Fforde
156. Giant Days Volume 7 - John Allison & Max Sarin
Favourite(s):


December
157. Hollowpox: The Hunt for Morrigan Crow - Jessica Townsend
158. Giant Days Volume 8 - John Allison & Max Sarin
159. In a Holidaze - Christina Lauren
160. Giant Days Volume 9 - John Allison & Max Sarin
161. No Judgments - Meg Cabot
162. Network Effect - Martha Wells
163. Too Wilde to Wed - Eloisa James
164. A Dangerous Collaboration - Deanna Raybourn
165. A Christmas Carol - Charles Dickens
166. Carry On - Rainbow Rowell (re-read)
167. Wayward Son - Rainbow Rowell
168. The Honey-Don't List - Christina Lauren
169. My Boyfriend Is a Bear - Pamela Ribon & Cat Farris
170. Giant Days Volume 10 - John Allison, Max Sarin, & Julia Madrigal
Favourite(s):

My rating system:

/ = Ran screaming in the other direction (aka did not finish)
* = Suffered through it for reasons I'm still not sure of
** = Had far more flaws than virtues
*** = A read I don't regret but could use some improvement
**** = A good, solid read that I might revisit
***** = Loved it beyond reason and will probably re-read in short order

Going to channel Amber and see how long that lasts. ;)

On the agenda today: Working from home as always these days. Trip to the library after work to pick up what will hopefully be a big stack of holds (currently sitting at 16, hopefully will be around 25ish by the time I get there). While out also need to do a quick trip for some groceries that will run out before our trip next week plus picking up a ship to store order.

What I'm reading: Going to try and power through the last chunk of No Judgments so I can return it to the library later today.

What I'm listening to: While cross-stitching this morning I listened to a couple old episodes of I Hate It But I Love It on Love Actually, Prometheus, and part of the episode on The Holiday.

What we're watching: Last night was my picks so we tried Dolly Parton's Christmas on the Square on Netflix, which was... an experience. Mr. Fine basically hated it and while I love Dolly and musicals, this one felt like it would really only work on stage and felt too big for the screen. Followed it up with the Winter episode from series three of The Vicar of Dibley, in which the town puts on a live nativity on a farm. I adore this episode and it always makes me laugh really hard.

Happy new thread!!

Happy new one, Micky!

Happy new thread!

Happy new thread!

Happy new thread Micky!

Happy new thread, Micky!

You found again a lovely topper, perfect for your December thread.

Happy new thread!

Happy new thread! My old one is getting long-ish, but I'm sticking with it for the rest of the year.

Happy new one!

Happy new thread, Micky!

Happy new one, Micky.

I'm glad you made the new one as it will boost you close to 1000 posts to your thread this year. Now with this post you are at 934 posts.

Greetings my double helping of bananas flambée!

Ooof, Amber channelling. Not sure I recommend it, really.

Happy new thread, anyway!

Thank you Chelle, Katie, Natalie, Jim, Steve, Anita, Leah, Foggi, Figs, Mary, Paul, Richard, and Amber for the new thread greetings.

>13 FAMeulstee: Thanks! Mary Pickford was a big silent film star of the 1920s who was born in Canada so I had to make sure she made an appearance here before the year was out.

>18 PaulCranswick: We'll see what I can do about hitting those 70 posts, Paul. ;)

>19 richardderus: Is that good thing? *smooch*

>20 scaifea: Aw no way. You're the best!

On today's agenda: Managing stress levels while waiting to see if I'll be subject to temporary layoffs for the upcoming closure. The library is focusing on "essential" services and it's unclear how much of my department will be staying - and people in other departments who stayed during the last round of layoffs in the spring/summer have received layoff notice this time around so it's hard to predict. Unfortunately I could have to wait as late as end of business Saturday before I know whether I'll be going to work on Monday or not. We're being offered the option of taking our vacation up to the full four weeks we're entitled even if it hasn't been earned yet so I won't have to go on EI straight away at least. So working from home today will involve putting through as many orders as possible in case I'm not working or the other staff who do processing of orders aren't here. Sigh.

What I'm reading: Finished No Judgments yesterday and managed a chapter of Network Effect while messaging with co-workers about the short notice union meeting that happened last night.

What we're watching: Mr. Fine's pick last night is part of our ongoing rewatch of the Star Wars series so we watched Force Awakens, which was an excellent distraction.

Oof, I'm sorry about the stress and uncertainty. We know we'll have layoffs at my company in late January/early February probably, so I'm already anticipating that stress... Hang in there!

>22 MickyFine: Sorry to hear about the uncertainty. Crossing my fingers for the best possible outcome for you.

>22 MickyFine: I'm sorry to hear of your stress. :( The uncertainty is so difficult

>22 MickyFine: I feel your pain and am thinking of you! We had permanent layoffs back in October and my team had to wait about a day to find out their fates, while some other departments had to wait up to three or four days, so I did feel lucky in that respect. I had a sleepless night and about twelve hours were I was SURE I was going to be laid off, given that I'm the newest team member. it turned out ok, but it's not fun for anyone. Hang in there!

Well, I haven't received the official email from HR yet but my manager did a video call with me this afternoon to let me know I am on the layoff list. So I'll be "on vacation" until January 11 unless I get recalled earlier. What a Friday.

Sorry to hear that you are on the layoff list. I'm so over 2020

>27 MickyFine: I am so sorry to hear this, Micky. Long vacations are best when voluntary.

*smooch*

((((Micky))))

>22 MickyFine: That's so cruel, the way librarians are treated. Of all the essential services right now, books, DVDs (for those not streaming) and so on, the libraries have to be seen as critical. The hubs has suggested it's a money grab by cities in the debt hole cutting salaries. He's cynical but may have a point.

All best wishes, Micky.

*hugs*
I'm so sorry, Micky.

>27 MickyFine: I'm sorry, Micky :(

Hey Micky,
Tough times right now. I hope Alberta is able to get things under control and you're able to get back to work soon.

Thanks for the sympathies all. It's taking some mental gymnastics to get my brain to consider this a vacation but I'm working on it. Bright side, I should have plenty of time to get through at least some of the 26 books I checked out from my local library on Thursday.

>31 SandyAMcPherson: Thirteen of the branches will be providing curbside services, Sandy, so the population won't be completely without. However, staffing is at the bare minimum and most of the behind the scenes departments (like mine) are nearly or completely shut down for the next four weeks.

Book 161



No Judgments - Meg Cabot

Bree has been a full-time resident of Little Bridge Island in the Florida Keys for a few months as she tries to figure herself out and determine what she wants to do next with her life. When a category 5 hurricane nears the island, she makes the decision to wait it out since her cat has recently had surgery and wouldn't travel well. In the aftermath of the storm, she discovers multiple citizens have left their pets behind and can't get to them right away. So Bree comes to the rescue with the help of the peskily attractive Drew Hartwell, her boss's nephew. The storm may not be the only thing to shake things up in Bree's life.

Meg Cabot has always been a reliably good read for me, whether it's her teen or adult novels, and this novel doesn't disappoint. Living in the Keys herself, I assume Cabot gets most of the hurricane details right and while giving a mild sense of peril, it's Bree's growth in herself and her blooming relationship with Drew that are the focus here. Sweet with a couple steamy moments, recommended for fans of contemporary romances.

Rating: ****

Sorry about the job news, Micky. Hope you can convince your brain to enjoy some reading and relaxing.

>37 MickyFine: That looks like a good one. I generally like Cabot's stuff.

>38 foggidawn: Thanks, Foggi. I'm doing so-so at the relaxing so far.

I think the Cabot would suit you nicely. :)

Book 162



Network Effect - Martha Wells

Murderbot is on a mission with a group of humans, including one of Dr. Mensah's daughters when it goes sideways (as missions always seem to do around Murderbot). While it manages to successfully rescue its humans, when they return to their ship a whole new level of hell breaks loose that will see the return of some familiar tech and a new mystery which will threaten the existence of not just the humans but Murderbot too.

I love this series so much and this full-length novel did not disappoint. Also, yay for the return of ART - love that sassy ship. Do you like sci fi even a little? Then you need to read Murderbot.

Rating: ****

What's on the agenda today: So far today I've watched a Christmas movie, used stainless steel polish on the appliances in the kitchen, dealt with dishes, and sprayed oven cleaner in the oven. There will probably be some reading and cross-stitching today. I've also got a virtual coffee break planned for this afternoon with my co-workers (all but one of us are on "vacation" right now). Tonight we're ordering take out from a place that specializes in mac'n'cheese. I could use all the carbs and cheese right now.

What I'm reading: Finished the latest Murderbot novel last night so I'm now on to the historical romance Too Wilde to Wed. I'm pretty sure this ended up on The List because it was one of Library Journal's best romances of 2018 (a list that ended up with a lot of dud reads for me) so we'll see. It will be my first Eloisa James so not sure if she's my style.

What we're watching: Last night was my pick so we watched the Christmas episode of season 1 of the West Wing which gives me all the feels no matter how many times I watch it and the Doctor Who Christmas special "A Christmas Carol," which reminded me how much I loved Doctor Who. I haven't watched it since I got Capaldi fatigue but I should get back to it since I've heard good things about Jodie and was psyched by the trailers for the New Year's special this year. This morning's Christmas movie was The 12 Dates of Christmas on Disney+, which had time loops at Christmas when a woman keeps repeating Christmas Eve until she gets her blind date right. Not bad but not one I'll rewatch.

Eloisa James is a bit hit or miss for me. She's a better and smarter writer than many, but I sometimes find her stories boring. But when they are good, they are *really* good. I haven't read any in the Wilde series yet, so can't comment on your current read.

Mac and cheese sounds pretty awesome right about now...

I’ve had my eye on the Murderbot series for a while. I need to grab a copy at some point

Sounds like you are making the best of your forced “vacation”. Enjoy your carbs tonight!

>42 katiekrug: Ooh, good to know. I'll keep you posted. Last time we ordered from there I got their Caprese Mac n Cheese (mac n cheese topped with feta, fresh tomatoes, and balsamic vinegar, which was delicious) but I might go for standard mac n cheese this time.

>43 ChelleBearss: Oh Chelle you've got such a delight ahead of you. Most of the series is novellas so they're quick reads too, if that's an inducement.

Yay, Murderbot! I watched all of The West Wing this year for the first time and loved it. That first Christmas episode is excellent.

Hi Micky. I always knew there was a reason I was fond of you despite the bizarreness of your weirdly functional country...we both love Murderbot. I wish it was my president.

Anyway. Nothing new to contribute. *smooch*

Happy new thread Micky

>45 curioussquared: I'm a big fan of all the Christmas episodes from seasons 1-4 but figured season 1 was the easiest to expose my husband to with no context as he's never watched it.

>46 richardderus: We'll always have Murderbot.

>47 humouress: Thanks, Nina.

What's on the agenda today: All the grocery shopping. We usually go every other week and with the holidays coming up we're shopping for the next three weeks so the carts will be full. I'm taking advantage of being off work and going to the German/ European food market in the city that's only open 9-5 to get good beef and turkey sausages.

What I'm reading: Only have 100ish pages left in Too Wilde to Wed and I'm not sure yet what I'll pick out of the stack next.

What we're watching: Mr. Fine's holiday pick was Jingle All the Way. He loves Arnie. I basically dislike the entire film so I made excellent progress on my cross- stitch. And then he continued his rewatch of Parks and Recreation (we're into season 6).

Happy newish thread, Micky! I'm sorry to hear about your work situation. I hope your "vacation" can be as nice as possible. I like the picture of your checkouts from the library in >35 MickyFine: and recognize some titles that are on my reading list.

Hope your grocery shopping was successful. The German/European food market sounds great!

Book 163



Too Wilde to Wed - Eloisa James

Historical romance set during the Georgian era in which North, an heir to a dukedom, is jilted and goes to the colonies to fight on the British side in the war of Independence. When he returns he discovers that his former fiancee, Diana Belgrave, is living on the family estate where she now works as the governess and has brought along a young boy whom everyone assumes is North's son. It was solid read and I enjoyed it but a few of Diana's impulsive adventures struck me as beyond the realm of believability - which in a historical romance takes a quite a bit. I am willing to read more Eloisa James after this experience, which is always a good sign.

Rating: ***

Woot for Parks and Rec!! We LOVE that show here at Scaife Manor.

>51 aktakukac: Thanks, Rachel. With the current COVID restrictions in place retail locations are limited to 15% capacity so it was a quick trip in the German market. I was half successful as they only had turkey sausage but I did get the coffee substitute I like too.

>53 scaifea: Mr. Fine is on his third watch of the show this year. He blitzed through the whole show while we were in Hawaii in January (man does that feel like a bazillion years ago), watched it with me when we got Prime in the spring, and now it's the sitcom he defaults to when he doesn't want to watch something longer. I like it but not nearly as much as he does. :)

Charlie claims I'm half Leslie Knope, half Liz Lemon, and half Cam from Modern Family, so of course I love it. Plus, being from a small town in Indiana, so much of that show rings hilariously true.

We love Parks & Rec, too, though after about season 3, less so. We didn't even bother with the last season, because the first episode of it was just not at all funny, IOHO.

For short viewing, I highly recommend giving Schitt's Creek a try. The episodes are 20 minutes, and after the first episode or two, it really hits its stride. Utterly ridiculous, but so smartly funny...

>56 katiekrug: Katie: You're...from Eagleton, aren't you? ADMIT IT.

What's on the agenda: Laundry day for me. Other than that there will probably be lots of cross-stitching and reading. Got notice that we're at 90% of our home internet data with 10 days to go until turnover and while we weigh going for unlimited we're trying to cut back on watching streaming TV for the next couple weeks (I have a feeling Mr. Fine is the bigger culprit for this but you didn't hear it from me).

What I'm reading: Started Forever and a Duke yesterday, which is pretty good so far. The paperback is pretty chunky but a third of it is a novella by another author that I'm not sure I'll read. Anyone have opinions on Kelly Bowen? (A question that is probably mostly for Katie)

What we're watching: Last night was Love at the Christmas Table a not-Hallmark made for TV Christmas movie with Danica McKellar that I enjoy so much I bought it for myself on DVD several years ago. Cast also includes Scott Patterson as her Dad and Lea Thompson as her surrogate Mom so for Christmas fluff it's got some excellent chops in there. Also squeezed in the Disney shorts Mickey's Christmas Carol (a must) and Prep & Landing. This morning was Christmas Catch on Netflix, which was meh and will probably make anyone who watches criminal procedurals nutty. Everyone was very pretty though.

>55 scaifea: That's so funny. Mr. Fine and I were having this discussion the other night and I will fully admit to being a split of Leslie and Ben while Mr. Fine is a split of Ron and Andy.

>56 katiekrug: Being Canadian, Schitt's Creek is huge up here. I haven't go into it yet but I'm sure I will eventually. For another excellent Canadian comedy, have you tried Kim's Convenience? I'm pretty sure it's on US Netflix.

>57 scaifea: Snort.

>57 scaifea: - Take that back!

>58 MickyFine: - I don't think I've read any Kelly Bowen. I tend not to like Grace Burrowes, though I am pretty sure I've only read novellas by her and not an actual novel...

>59 MickyFine: - Kim's Convenience is in my queue!

>60 katiekrug: Good to know. Thanks! I'm sort of so-so about Grace Burrowes. Her writing can be a bit muddled in spots so I may not auto-add the next book in this series to The List when I finish this one. And Yay for Kim's Convenience - excellent feel-good TV when you need it. :)

Nate is rewatching Parks and Rec right now too. I don’t really watch it with him.

I 100% recommend Schitt’s Creek! I had a little crush on Dan Levy!

>62 ChelleBearss: Glad to hear you enjoy the show, Chelle. :)

What's on the agenda: Dishes are mostly done. I'm attempting making cinnamon buns from scratch - dough is currently rising. I think the dough might be too dry though so we'll see how they turn out. Also sorting out bill stuff today. Then I can get on to cross-stitch and reading. Tonight Mr. Fine and I plan to complete our assembly of the Lego Diagon Alley set we gifted ourselves for our birthdays. We're currently on Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes so lots of purple and orange bricks. :)

What I'm reading: I abandoned Forever and a Duke - writing in a romance novel should not be so convoluted that I have to go back multiple times to figure out who's speaking, determine whether the setting has changed from one paragraph to the next without a section break, or anything else. I like Grace Burrowes' plot ideas but the execution just isn't my style. So I've moved on to A Dangerous Collaboration, which is as delightful as I expect from Raybourn and this series.

What we're watching: We watched Elf last night (apologies to Amber but I find Will Ferrell too much in several scenes so it's not a favourite of mine but Mr. Fine likes it). We also watched the Lego Star Wars Holiday Special on Disney+ which is silly and cute.

>64 MickyFine: - You perfectly articulated my problem with the Burrowes I've read...

>65 katiekrug: Glad I'm not alone. :)

>64 MickyFine: Ha! No need to apologize. I totally get that he's not everyone's cuppa. It helps to have the sense of humor of a 12yo, I think.

Am jealous of the Lego set...

>67 scaifea: It is a massive set and probably took us 10ish hours to assemble - there's tons of cute little details in each of the shops that means tiny pieces of Lego. It was so much fun though.

With gifts we ordered for the nieces and nephew from Lego we got the Christmas Carol book set as the free gift so we'll probably assemble that sometime this week.

>68 MickyFine: Very cool! I wants the Coliseum, of course, but it's ridiculously large and expensive. *sigh*

What's on the agenda: Whipping up icing for the cinnamon buns I made yesterday. They're a little dry but very respectable for my first ever attempt at both cinnamon buns and making yeast dough of any kind. Church livestream this morning, maybe a walk later, and general Sabbath relaxation.

What I'm reading: A Dangerous Collaboration continues and I'm enjoying it very much.

What we're watching: Mr. Fine was off work early so we watched the finale of The Mandalorian (so good!) and a couple more episodes of Parks and Rec before sunset.

>69 scaifea: It would be very cool to assemble. Finding space to display it would be the trickiest bit (after the price tag).

The Wayne watched the season finale of The Mandalorian last night, too. I half-watched it while playing on my computer.

>72 katiekrug: Are you into Star Wars, Katie? Or just something you enjoy by proxy via The Wayne?

>73 MickyFine: - I enjoy the movies but he started The Mandalorian without me when it premiered, and I wasn't interested enough to get caught up...

Hi Micky! I am trying to take advantage of a dreary rainy Saturday to catch up on some threads.

Ah, yes.... the dreaded runny noise when going from cold to warm. Even here on the island I have resorted to stashing a package of tissues in my pocket/purse so that I can wipe my nose as soon as I leave the store and can take my mask off! Add to that the eye glasses fogging up and I feel like I am back in a prairie winter. ;-)

>7 MickyFine: - I do enjoy the Vicar of Dibley. Such fun!

Sorry to read about your "vacation" into the New Year. While there are number of similar restrictions in place in both BC and Alberta, I was surprised by some decisions Alberta made. Here is hoping that you are able to relax and enjoy the time off, even if it wasn't planned.

>58 MickyFine: - Oh, Danica McKellar was here in Victoria a few months back for a made-for-TV movie shoot, but I don't think it was "Love at the Christmas Table".

.... just checked, and it was "Christmas, She Wrote" for the Hallmark Channel that was doing a film shoot on Government Street. Always fun when they have to pull out the fake snow and dress the street up in festive decorations in mid-October. ;-)

Wishing you, Mr. Fine and your family a wonderful holiday season and best wishes for the New Year.

>74 katiekrug: Mr. Fine is a bigger fan than me but we were pretty equally excited by The Mandalorian.

>75 lkernagh: Thanks for the visit, Lori! Hallmark filmed outside the Strathcona branch of EPL this year for one of their Christmas movies, which is very cool but was also apparently a nuisance for people trying to get in and out of the branch. Wishing you a lovely holiday break as well.

What's on the agenda today: It's cleaning day so scrubbing bathrooms this morning. Then just hanging out with Mr. Fine. We might board game or he'll video game while I cross stitch.

What I'm reading: Only managed a chapter of A Dangerous Collaboration yesterday. Weekends oddly have less reading time. I'll probably power through the rest of it Monday. I'd like to squeeze in a few more books this year.

What we're watching: Double feature last night of Home Alone and The Holiday.

What's on the agenda today: Some laundry, a detour after I pick up Mr. Fine from the bus when he finishes work to pick up a couple food items we forgot in our big shop last week, and it's virtual craft circle tonight (the last for the year).

What I'm reading: Still on A Dangerous Collaboration. Hoping to power through most of it today but I was awake around 3 a.m. and didn't really get back to sleep before the alarm at 5 so I may not have the concentration power for reading.

What we're watching: Another double feature last night of Die Hard and The Nine Lives of Christmas (a Hallmark with Brandon Routh and adorable cats). I've pulled out the 1990s Little Women for a viewing on my own probably this morning.

Morning, Micky! I love the idea of a virtual craft circle!

Have you seen the thing making the rounds on SM about Die Hard being not a Christmas movie? "He sneaks around a tower at night avoiding Alan Rickman. It's a Harry Potter movie."

>79 scaifea: Virtual craft circle is the best. It's run by my home library and it's just a lovely hour where we chit chat, show off what we're working on, and the library brings in a guest crafter to talk about a specific craft every week. We've had everything from sewing Regency gowns to stained glass to baking macarons (the definition of craft is pretty loose) since I started attending during the summer.

I had not seen that meme but it made me giggle. Mr. Fine and I both agree Die Hard is a Christmas movie and this year he's making the case Die Hard 2 is also a Christmas movie. It'll be on the schedule later this week. :)

We're saving Die Hard for Christmas Eve :)

>79 scaifea: - Jake Tapper (CNN anchor) has a great Twitter thread defending DH as a Christmas movie, and it's great. It's a few years old, but he usually retweets it every year. He has Very Strong feelings about it.

Tachyon Publications, an SFF house, posted this on Twitter. Says it all, no?

>81 katiekrug: Nice!

>83 richardderus: Lol.

What's on the agenda: I have to take my car in to the dealership for a recall service. Otherwise just chilling at home with the usual mix of watching stuff, reading, and cross-stitch.

What I'm reading: I only have 100ish pages left in A Dangerous Collaboration, I will be finishing it today for sure. And then I'll be re-reading Carry On to refresh my memory before reading Wayward Son.

What we're watching: Last night was White Christmas, one of my absolute favourites.

Every time I see Carry On and Wayward Son, I get excited and then realize that they have nothing to do with SPN. But Rowell, so I will eventually read them.

>86 scaifea: Have you read Fangirl yet? You should definitely read that before the Simon Snow series.

>85 MickyFine: That's my fave too!! I've been in a funk and not watching much lately so I haven't watched it yet. I think I'll play it on Christmas day

>88 ChelleBearss: An excellent choice. I often watch it Christmas Eve or Christmas Day but decided to shift things around a bit this year.

>87 MickyFine: I have not. I've only read Pumpkinheads. I really, really need to fix that.

>90 scaifea: Oooh, so many great reads ahead of you. Fangirl is definitely my favourite of her books but I also have a soft spot for Attachments.

Book 164



A Dangerous Collaboration - Deanna Raybourn

Veronica is inveigled by Stoker's brother, Tiberius, to accompany him on a visit to the castle of the Romilly family on a remote island in Cornwall ostensibly to collect larva of a rare butterfly species for her vivarium. However, when she arrives she learns that Tiberius had other motives for bringing her along, which likely has to do with the disappearance of Malcolm Romilly's bride, Rosamund, on their wedding day three years previously.

Another solid entry in this mystery series. I continue to enjoy watching the relationship between Veronica and Stoker develop and the move to a small island for this novel makes for a nice change of pace. Recommended for fans of the series.

Rating: ****

What's on the agenda today: It's Mr. Fine's last day at work for the year so no more 5 a.m. wake ups for the rest of the year! I've shoveled the driveway this morning already (we got a light skiff yesterday) and other than folding some laundry, I have no plans for anything productive today. Mr. Fine and I started assembly of his Lego ship from The Mandalorian yesterday so we'll probably finish that this afternoon. Otherwise, the usual recreational activities of reading and cross-stitch.

What I'm reading: Started Carry On yesterday afternoon and forgot how quickly it reads - lots of short chapters with a few different character perspectives going on. I've checked out an audiobook of A Christmas Carol so I'll probably listen to that while cross-stitching this morning.

What we're watching: Yesterday morning I watched the 90s Little Women and last night was Die Hard 2, which I'd never seen before. Lots of over the top 90s action movie hijinks and it's definitely Christmas-y.

What's on the agenda: No definite plans today. There could be Lego assembly, board games, video games, reading, and cross stitching going on. Plus at least one walk to one of the nearby parks. The only definite thing on the agenda is our Christmas Eve viewing.

What I'm reading: I didn't crack a paper book yesterday but I did listen to the audiobook of A Christmas Carol. I always forget the humorous asides Dickens included in there, they always make me laugh. Whatever reading time I carve out today will be with Carry On.

What we're watching: Last night was Love Actually, one of my top faves. Usually the final shots of people reuniting at the airport at the end of the film leaves me teary but in the context of 2020 there was ugly crying. Mr.Fine chose to follow it with Gremlins, another film I'd never seen, so I didn't go to bed sad. Tonight will be his ultimate favourite, A Christmas Story followed by A Muppet Christmas Carol, which I remain adamant is the best film version of the story.

Happy Christmas Eve!

I'll be watching Love Actually this afternoon, and then The Wayne and I will watch Die Hard tonight. Maybe Die Hard 2, as well, depending on time and level of sleepiness :)

>85 MickyFine: - I love White Christmas! Such a fabulous movie!

Wishing you peace, joy and happiness this holiday season and best wishes for a wonderful New Year, Micky!

>94 MickyFine: I watched Love Actually on Tuesday while wrapping presents. It's my favorite too! I might put on Muppet Christmas Carol today while constructing my entry for the family Zoom gingerbread house contest; I love anything muppets.

Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
May 2021 bring you less need for masks, loads of peace and joy, good health and, of course, books!

Hi Micky, I sure hope that 2021 sees you reinstalled as the children's librarian next year.

Lots of images going the rounds, so I'll just say simply: Happy Christmas to all, and to all a Goodnight. (quoting Clement Clarke Moore, 1949 edition).

Hope you have a Merry Christmas!

Wishing you and yours the very best of the season.

I hope you get some of those at least, Micky, as we all look forward to a better 2021.

I hope you're having a very merry day!

Merry Christmas all! However you're celebrating today, I hope it's full of peace and joy!

Homemade chili in a special delivery from my YGC
tamales
dirty rice
yeup, good as it's gonna get an' damn fine with it

Had a lovely Christmas yesterday with Mr. Fine. Several video chats and phone calls with friends and family, spoiled with gifts, and a delicious turkey dinner cooked by Mr. Fine. Missed our usual family gatherings but living in hope that next year Christmas will be back to normal.

What's on the agenda: Virtual church this morning and my stepdaughter is arriving at some point today (Mr. Fine is very grateful that coparenting is exempt from the lockdown so he still gets time with her). Not sure if we'll be doing Christmas with her today or tomorrow morning so there could be more gifts in the offing. Might also do some online Boxing Day shopping after Sabbath ends tonight.

What I'm reading: Finished my re-read of Carry On yesterday between festivities so I'll be starting Wayward Son. Thinking I'll target 170 as my final number for the year so there will probably be some comics in the next week.

No TV watching yesterday. There was some video game playing (Lego Marvel Superheroes 2 for me on the PS4 and Breath of the Wild on the Switch for Mr. Fine). We also assembled A Christmas Carol Lego set, which is very cute.

Happy New Thread and Happy Holidays, Micky! Good to hear you had a lovely Christmas.

My wife is a big fan of Die Hard, and she and our daughter watched it again yesterday while I watched some basketball. As she says, it is a Christmas movie. :-)

Good review of Network Effect. "Do you like sci-fi even a little? Then you need to read Murderbot". Well said. What great books they are.

Happy holidays, Micky! So glad your Christmas was lovely and you have a visit from your stepdaughter to look forward to.

Agree, good review of Network Effect. The Murderbot Diaries has turned out to be my favorite series of the year. Can't wait for the spring and Fugitive Telemetry, Murderbot's latest adventure.

>108 jnwelch: Thanks for the visit, Joe. Sounds like you had a good holiday as well.

>109 Storeetllr: Agreed, Mary. I have a couple bookstore gift cards from my birthday and Christmas and I'm eyeing the Murderbot box set to use them on.

Book 165



A Christmas Carol - Charles Dickens

Excellent audiobook version of the classic Christmas tale. Great way to revisit the story while doing festive things.

Rating: ****

Book 166



Carry On - Rainbow Rowell (re-read)

I think this one is really only enjoyable if you've read Fangirl in advance for some context. Once you have that background, it's a fun take on the Chosen One trope. Definitely fun to revisit and glad I did as it makes diving into the next book a much smoother experience.

Rating: ****

What's on the agenda: Normally we do cleaning on Sundays but Mr. Fine and I are still pretty strongly in holiday mode so we're putting it off for another day or two. We did end up opening gifts with his daughter yesterday when she arrived so Christmas-ing has ended. We've got a family video/ phone chat set up for this afternoon with my family to celebrate my grandfather's birthday. My dad bought ice cream cakes for all the different households and dropped them off last week so that we can celebrate together while apart. Other than that, it will probably be the usual mix of reading, cross-stitch, video games, TV, and possibly a board game. Ordering Chinese food tonight by step-daughter's request.

What I'm reading: Nearly halfway through Wayward Son and really enjoying it so far.

What we're watching: Let the step-daughter pick last night so we watched Soul on Disney+. I enjoyed it but it's not on my list of faves. Happily, first Pixar in a while where I haven't ugly cried. We followed it up with some MarioKart and Mario Party afterwards.

>107 MickyFine: Sounds like you had a lovely Christmas. Hope you have a good visit with your Step daughter!

I love that you both still do lego! Chloe just recently discovered the love of lego and has assembled 3 kits since the 20th. She has one more to do.

Oooh, MarioKart and Chinese (and no cleaning!)! I'm jealous.

Oh my. Disney+ Pixar releasing is going to eat a lot of your time, I wager. They're pivoting out of meatspace so fast I bet Walt's whirring in his grave fast enough to power LA. After all, his dream was Disneyland....

>113 MickyFine: I felt the same about Soul! Enjoyable, but I felt like I should want to cry and I just didn't.

>114 ChelleBearss: Mr. Fine got us into collecting Harry Potter Lego shortly after we got married and it's something fun for us to do together. Santa brought us a few more sets this Christmas so we'll have some to get us through the winter.

>115 scaifea: It's shaping up to be a good, lazy day if I say so myself.

>116 richardderus: So much good stuff coming on Disney+ next year, especially for this house full of comic book nerds. We're looking forward to the new Marvel shows. As for Walt's dream, they seem to be doing all right with all their added properties. With the new Star Wars section, they've got a whole new pool of nerds to draw on. I still remember chatting in line with a family when I went to Disney World several years ago who went every year since the couple had married (their daughter was 16). I enjoyed it and would go back (especially since Mr. Fine has never been) but I can't imagine wanting to go every year.

>117 curioussquared: Glad I'm not alone, Natalie.

I got lego Hedwig this Christmas thanks to my sister. I have always loved lego.

Sounds like you had a lovely Christmas Micky. How old is your step-daughter?

firelion used to be a Lego nerd so we have loads of boxes (I don't think we have any Harry Potter, oddly enough. He mainly went for Lego City though he's into dinosaurs so we have some Jurassic Park and probably one or two super hero sets - but not many of those either, strangely, given that the kids are into watching the films, TV series, video games ...) Legoland is just across the border in southern Malaysia so my husband got annual passes for a couple of years. It was fun, since there's a water park and we stayed at the Legoland theme hotel, but after the first few times (I was surprised it lasted that long, TBH) it did start to pall a bit. We went back once or twice after a break and it had regained its shine because it had been a while. But I think even firelion has grown out of it now.

>119 BBGirl55: Awesome, Briony. Hope you have fun assembling it.

>120 humouress: Thanks, Nina, it was a good Christmas. My step-daughter just turned 18 last month.

My brother had massive bins of Lego when we were growing up. I loved following instructions from the books but he was much more improvisational.

What's on the agenda: Still in vacation mode here so lots of time for the usual activities of gaming, reading, and cross-stitching. Step-daughter is heading back to her mom's this afternoon so it'll be just me and Mr. Fine again. We actually have plans out for tonight and they're a surprise for Mr. Fine. He knows we've got a date but not where or what we're doing. I've got tickets for Luminaria at the university botanic gardens. I love a good lights display so it should be a lot of fun. First time we've gone out for a date since our anniversary in September.

What I'm reading: Finished Wayward Son yesterday afternoon (review coming soon) and moved on to The Honey-Don't List. Christina Lauren have quickly become my favourite contemporary romance authors.

What we're watching: Gave step-daughter the choice again last night so we watched Instant Family on Netflix. Definitely a heartstring puller filled with lots of funny and sweet moments.

Oooh, the Luminaria sounds amazing! We sure missed going to the zoo lights this year. Hopefully next year...

>123 scaifea: Luminaria was gorgeous. I'll post a photo or two here when I'm on the laptop.

What's on the agenda: I was awake from 3-6 this morning so ended up sleeping until 9. Ordered delivery from Timmies for breakfast since Mr. Fine had a craving. Finally cracked open our Marvel Villainous board game - harder than the Disney Villainous but still a lot of fun. Played some video games after that and once Mr. Fine finishes with his laundry we're going for a walk. Then probably some reading for me before watching a movie or two tonight. Chicken tacos for supper.

What I'm reading: The Honey-Don't List continues on. Think I'll probably be cheating and using a couple volumes of Giant Days to reach my final goal of 170 before year's end.

What we're watching: My pick last night so we watched Like Father on Netflix because I love Kristen Bell. Got great delight out of Seth Rogen's character saying he's from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada partly because I've lived there and partly because that's totally how Canadians introduce themselves abroad. Also opened the box set of As Time Goes By I got for Christmas and watched the first two episodes (rewatch for me and first viewing for Mr. Fine).

Book 167



Wayward Son - Rainbow Rowell

Major spoilers for Carry On in the summary below.

In the aftermath of defeating the Mage and Simon losing his magic, things are not going well. In a desperate bid to break him out of his patterns, Penny decides to take Simon and Baz along with her on a road trip to America to see her boyfriend, Micah, and to check on Agatha. However, upon their arrival nothing goes the way Penny anticipated, Baz's magic seems to be on the blink, and only Simon seems to be enjoying himself. And then all hell breaks loose threatening Simon and his friends. Again. As always.

Solid follow-up with plenty of fun building of the world based on the implications of the rules of magic in the universe that Rowell has created. There's also great exploration of the emotional ramifications of what comes after the big, life-altering showdown. Fun, queer, and action-packed YA fantasy that will please fans of the first book.

Rating: ****

As promised to Amber, a couple photos from Luminaria on Monday night.

>127 MickyFine: Oooh, very cool! I LOVE the lanterns in the trees!

>128 scaifea: Definitely the best of the photos I took. What it doesn't quite capture is that there was an oscillating effect on the lights that made it appear a bit like how light refracts through shallow waves. Very cool.

What's on the agenda: Another vacation day with the usual leisure activities on the docket. Also need to do some laundry.

What I'm reading: Finished The Honey-Don't List last night and pulled the graphic novel, My Boyfriend Is a Bear, out of the library stack as it should be a quick read.

What we're watching: Mr. Fine's picks mostly so there was some Parks & Rec (only a few episodes left in the final season for his rewatch) and then Die Hard with a Vengeance. I did watch an episode of Golden Girls while Mr. Fine was cooking supper (love those ladies and now that I'm an adult I get all the jokes) and an episode of Virgin River while he had his weekly D&D game.

>130 MickyFine: - Die Hard with a Vengeance is my favorite of the franchise. Love me some Samuel L. Jackson :)

>131 katiekrug: It was pretty enjoyable although it's so strange to see Jeremy Irons with dyed blond hair and wearing tank tops. Feels like the man was born in a suit.

>132 MickyFine: - Ha ha! So true.

Book 168



The Honey-Don't List - Christina Lauren

Carey has worked for Melissa and Rusty Tripp since she was 16. During that time the couple has gone from running a home design and furniture store in Wyoming to becoming America's favourite home redesign couple. As Melissa and Rusty prepare to go on a promotional tour for their new book on marriage, Carey and Rusty's new assistant, James, get pulled into coming along to help keep a secret no one wants getting out: the supposedly happily married couple are anything but. While Carey and James try to keep their bosses in line, they also discover that there may just be a spark worth pursuing between the two of them.

Another solid contemporary romance from Christina Lauren. I love how the co-authors create these characters who feel real, who have believable issues, and while the final conflict between the two leads is due to miscommunication (as it almost always is) - it's not one of those scenarios where you want to shout, "Just talk to each other!" at the book. Recommended for fans of contemporary romance.

Rating: ****

>134 MickyFine: - Adding to my list! I just bought In a Holidaze in a Kindle sale today.

>135 katiekrug: Yay to both! In a Holidaze was great Christmas read for me this year. Saving it for next year?

Yep. Or as a Christmas in July read :)

I'm still planning to squeeze in a couple more reads this year but since their titles won't fit any of the questions, I'm doing the year-end book meme now. Completed with the titles of books I read this year. :)

Describe yourself: The Couch Potato

Describe how you feel: Love in the Blitz

Describe where you currently live: No Country for Old Gnomes

If you could go anywhere, where would you go: The Little Bookshop of Lonely Hearts

Your favorite form of transportation is: Howl's Moving Castle

Your favorite food is: Baking with Kafka

Your favorite time of day is: 8

Your best friend is: The Good Egg

You and your friends are: Herding Cats

What’s the weather like: Naughty on Ice

You fear: Solutions and Other Problems

What is the best advice you have to give: Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake

Thought for the day: No Judgments

What is life for you: A Deadly Education

How you would like to die: A Dangerous Collaboration

Your soul’s present condition: A Conjuring of Light

What was 2020 like for you? Carry On

What do you want from 2021? She Stoops to Conquer

Nicely done!

>139 katiekrug: Thanks! I'm proud.

Phone call from my manager this afternoon. I'll be returning to work (from home) on January 12. Grateful I won't be on EI but grumbly about the wasted vacation time. Ultimately it's good news at least.

>138 MickyFine: Good answers. I especially like what you and your friends are and your self-description.

Thanks, Lori.

Hi Mickey. I'm doing the rounds before the abandonment of the 2020 threads happens.

You've had a run of interesting Rainbow Rowell books. Amongst all your other reading and seasonal activities...
I liked that author a lot (so far, have read only 1), so thanks for the heads up that I should read the stories in publishing order.

I read Attachments, and then never remembered to look for one of the earlier books. My niece originally recommended Fangirl but I found such a wait for it that I defaulted to what was immediately available.

Best wishes for a better year than this last one.

I'm a big Rainbow Rowell fan, Sandy, so I'm happy to encourage reading of her entire bibliography. Most of her books don't need to be read in publication order as they're all standalones but the germ of the idea for the Simon Snow books came from Fangirl and I think they work better as reads when you have already read Fangirl.

What's on the agenda: Going to try and squeeze in some bill stuff and thread wrap up today before our festivities. Our New Year's Eve plans are very chill and involve nibbling on appetizers all day and a marathon of all the Star Trek: The Next Generation movies (possibly followed by starting Picard depending on time and energy levels). There will be a brief outing at the midpoint of the day as I have library holds scheduled for pick up and we need some milk. Mr. Fine also wants a quick stop at EB Games to pick up Mario Party and another controller for the Switch. Odds are pretty slim that we'll make it to midnight but we'll have fun trying.

What I'm reading: Finished two comics yesterday: My Boyfriend Is a Bear and volume 10 of Giant Days (reviews soon). Not sure I'll do any reading today but Paper and Fire is sitting on the top of my nightstand stack ready to be my first read of 2021.

What we're watching: My choices yesterday so we watched the Rock Hudson and Doris Day led Send Me No Flowers and finished season 1 of As Time Goes By (at six episodes of half hour shows, it doesn't take long).

Book 169



My Boyfriend Is a Bear - Pamela Ribon & Cat Farris

After a series of terrible boyfriends, Nora is about ready to give up on love until she meets Bear and finds he's the best companion for her life. But hibernation season is approaching...

A cute comic full of laughs and sweet moments. Is it thoroughly strange to think too hard about the plot of this one? Absolutely. Is it enjoyable anyway? Definitely. Recommended.

Rating: ****

Book 170



Giant Days Volume 10 - John Allison, Max Sarin, & Julia Madrigal

Daisy figures out her living situation in the wake of her break up with Ingrid and also finally has an honest conversation with her grandmother. Susan and McGraw adjust to living together and figure out what their lives will look like when McGraw finishes his degree while Susan continues her medical training. Esther settles into her new house, finds her place among her housemates, and grapples with making choices about her career after uni.

Another excellent volume. I love these girls so much that I'm happy every time I pick up a volume. Two issues in this collection were drawn by Madrigal rather than Sarin and they're fine but I prefer Sarin's artwork as it took me a bit to identify the characters in Madrigal's sharper lines. For fans of the series.

Rating: ****

December Summary






Numbers in parentheses are for year to date.

Books read: 14 (170)
Books abandoned: 1 (10)

Fiction: 14 (95)
Non-fiction: 0 (61)

Adult: 8 (130)
YA: 5 (21)
Children's: 1 (19)

Library: 14 (150)
Mine: 0 (20)
Borrowed elsewhere: 0 (0)

Re-reads: 2 (18)

Female authors: 11 (102)
Male authors: 4 (73)

Pages: 4,006 (33,853)
Hours: 2 hours, 50 minutes (11 days, 7 hours, 33 minutes)
Average rating: 3.91
Average time to read book: 3.72 days

Favourite book(s): So many good books this month (as with every month) but I'll go for Hollowpox: The Hunt for Morrigan Crow.

Year Over Year Comparison

My reading trends for the past five years. I've added a few new categories this year enabled by my usage of the awesome BookRiot Reading Log spreadsheet, so no data for comparisons available from previous years.

Books Read
2020: 170
2019: 164
2018: 116
2017: 91
2016: 120

Pages Read
2020: 33,853
2019: 46,462
2018: 35,832
2017: 30,562
2016: 42,960

Time Listening
2020: 11 days, 7 hours, 33 minutes

Format Breakdown
2020: 75 print, 40 digital, 55 audio

Audience Breakdown
2020: 130 adult, 21 YA, 19 children
2019: 120 adult, 37 YA, 12 children
2018: 92 adult, 20 YA, 2 children
2017: 105 adult, 11 YA, 3 children
2016: 85 adult, 21 YA, 10 children

Fiction Books
2020: 109
2019: 133
2018: 101
2017: 72
2016: 98

Non-Fiction Books
2020: 61
2019: 31
2018: 15
2017: 19
2016: 22

Most Read Genre/Topic
2020: Fantasy

Re-reads:
2020: 18
2019: 6
2018: 2
2017: 2
2016: 8

Author Gender Breakdown
2020: 102 female, 73 male, 2 other*
2019: 123 female, 49 male
2018: 76 female, 42 male
2017: 71 female, 23 male
2016: 89 female, 35 male
*other are works authored by institutions/organizations

Owned vs. Borrowed
2020: 150 library, 20 mine, 0 elsewhere
2019: 121 library, 33 mine, 0 elsewhere
2018: 91 library, 9 mine, 16 elsewhere
2017: 73 library, 6 mine, 12 elsewhere
2016: 103 library, 16 mine, 1 elsewhere

Average Time to Read a Book
2020: 3.72 days
2019: 2.76 days
2018: 5.12 days
2017: 7.09 days
2016: 3.04 days

>149 MickyFine: Gah, that's some sexy data. I love it, and I'm excited to try the spreadsheet in 2021. Well done, and happy new year!

>150 London_StJ: I know, right? I posted screenshots of some of my charts to my Instagram and FB profiles. #datanerd

>149 MickyFine: I think you're convincing me to try the Book Riot spreadsheet too!

>152 curioussquared: Do it! It's really easy to use and alter for categories you do or don't care about. Added a couple nonfiction topics to the genre column this year because I read a lot of history and it was bugging me to put it in general nonfiction.

Happy New Year, Micky!

Micky

As the year turns, friendship continues

Thank you, Mary and Paul.

That's it for this year. Practice your steps and find your best gloves before heading over to my 2021 THREAD .

>146 MickyFine: Very happy to see you finally got around to reading my autobiography

>158 norabelle414: LOL. I hope you and bear are enduring hibernation season ok this winter.