Hello everyone! It's time to get into book group mode -- let's do some reading and discussing! Can you feel your brain getting smarter already? :-)
This Thursday is our first meeting of the fall -- Sept. 13, 7 pm, at my house. We will finally be talking about Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand. I hope that you will be able to come!
If you can host our group during any of the upcoming months, please let me know! Thanks!
See you soon, Heather
Upcoming schedule:
Sept. 13: Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand. Host: Heather Nuffer Oct. 18: O Pioneers! by Willa Cather (PG book group set). Host: Alicia Andersen? Nov. 8: Divergent by Veronica Roth. Host: Katie Patten? Dec. 13: The Chimes by Charles Dickens Jan. 10: Seabiscuit: An American Legend by Laura Hillenbrand Feb. 21: One More River to Cross by Margaret Blair Young, Darius Aidan Gray Mar. 14: The Chosen by Chaim Potok Apr. 11: Midnight in Austenland by Shannon Hale May 9: Shadow Divers by Robert Kurson June 13: The Looking Glass Wars (The Looking Glass Wars #1) by Frank Beddor Summer book: The Legend Thief (The Hunter Chronicles #2) by E.J. Patten
One of America’s greatest women writers, Willa Cather established her talent and her reputation with this extraordinary novel—the first of her books set on the Nebraska frontier. A tale of the prairie land encountered by America’s Swedish, Czech, Bohemian, and French immigrants, as well as a story of how the land challenged them, changed them, and, in some cases, defeated them, Cather’s novel is a uniquely American epic. (from Goodreads)
"'A pioneer should have imagination, should be able to enjoy the idea of things more than the things themselves (27),' Willa Cather writes in her most famous novel, and with it, proves herself to be a pioneer of American literature. This is a must-read for anyone interested in an astute take on the westward expansion of our nation, told from the point-of-view of the female immigrants who had the vision to see what this country could become. It also charts with emotional precision the issues surrounding gender roles during this time, the pressure put on them as the country shifted from agriculture to education, and the working class began to split between the workers and the next generation, who were able to go to college from the money earned on the land. But, all of that, makes it sound so academic, and that's not accurate, because the real gift of Cather's writing is how great a story-teller she is, with twists and turns, love and loneliness, and even a murder that propels us to the beautiful conclusion. These characters and events will stay with you for a long, long time." (Goodreads review by Steven Rydman)
In Beatrice Prior's dystopian Chicago, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue--Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. For Beatrice, the decision is between staying with her family and being who she really is--she can't have both. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself.
Veronica Roth bursts onto the literary scene with the first book in the Divergent series--dystopian thrillers filled with electrifying decisions, heartbreaking betrayals, stunning consequences, and unexpected romance. (from Goodreads)
"There’s nothing Divergent doesn’t offer: high stakes, intrigue, action, romance and characters I’ve fallen in love with. Putting this book down at 3 in the morning to sleep is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. Divergent presents a rather chilling picture of what humans are really capable of. When a single trait is prized and cultivated in isolation from all others--intelligence without selflessness; bravery without compassion; honesty without wisdom--values which do make up the best of humanity are taken to extremes and become ugly, twisted, perverted things. You remove any selflessness from intelligence, and you wind up with greed for power, knowledge, and corruption." (from a review by Sarah on Goodreads)
This short story was written and published in 1844, one year after A Christmas Carol. It is the story of Trotty Veck, a poor ticket porter, whose outlook is changed from despair to hope by the spirits of the chimes on New Year's Eve.
"If A Christmas Carol is about making restitution after sins of commission, The Chimes is about the potential cost of sins of omission. The Chimes had just the right impact on me this year. The protagonist spends a great deal of the story not understanding what he did wrong, or rather, what he didn't do right. Getting back to my "sin of omission" thought, it's easy to detach oneself from Scrooge. Not quite so easy with Trotty Veck, the main character in The Chimes. He spends the entire story likable, or at least sympathetic. Yet, Dickin's makes the case that Trotty still needs to change/improve. He must be proactive and hopeful, not a willing victim of circumstance. This a compelling and thought-provoking theme, and oh so relevant today. The overall message of The Chimes is that hope is both a virtue and a choice, especially in a life of travail." (from a Goodreads review by Jake)
Seabiscuit was one of the most electrifying and popular attractions in sports history and the single biggest newsmaker in the world in 1938, receiving more coverage than FDR, Hitler, or Mussolini. But his success was a surprise to the racing establishment, which had written off the crooked-legged racehorse with the sad tail. Author Laura Hillenbrand brilliantly re-creates a universal underdog story, one that proves life is a horse race. (from Goodreads)
"It really does read like a novel, and yet it is so deep - Ms. Hillenbrand has really explored her topic thoroughly and passes on all the details to us. There is a section where she describes the jockeys' experience of riding in a race that is one of the best pieces of prose I have ever, and will ever, read. I read it over and over. It's so visceral, she really puts you in the saddle, plus the prose is beautiful in and of itself. Another reason for the success of this novel is her success at placing the events in their historical context. She not only puts you in the saddle, she takes you back in time. This was one of the universally best-received choices we've read in book club. Everyone loved it, whether or not they cared at all about horses or sports." (Goodreads review by Stephanie "Jedigal" Blum)
Powerful new historical fiction series that tells the stories of early African-American members of the Church. Co-author is Darius Aidan Gray. Margaret Blair Young teaches creative writing at Brigham Young University. Darius Aidan Gray is a former journalist. His grandfather was born a slave; his great grandfather was a slave near Independence, Missouri, and appears in the book.
"I learned a lot from this book about African American pioneers. So many of the stories were eye-opening and heart-wrenching. I am amazed by the characters' faith and perseverance amidst the horrible persecutions not only coming from the world, but from the Saints as well. I don't know if I could have endured their trials so well." (Goodreads review by Haley Call)
"I appreciated the narrative voice and the thoughtfulness behind each character. I loved that the writers were so careful in representing real figures making them well rounded and real, but in compassionate ways. I appreciated the notes at the end of each chapter and the clarifying details they provided. I think this book (and the others in the series) worked as a novel, history lesson, and artistic endeavor." (Goodreads review by Laura Craner)
"Anyone who finds it is finding a jewel. Its themes are profound and universal." --THE WALL STREET JOURNAL It is the now-classic story of two fathers and two sons and the pressures on all of them to pursue the religion they share in the way that is best suited to each. And as the boys grow into young men, they discover in the other a lost spiritual brother, and a link to an unexplored world that neither had ever considered before. In effect, they exchange places, and find the peace that neither will ever retreat from again....
"It is very well written, and enjoyable as well as educational. It helped me better understand the Jewish faith and branches of Judaism, the horror of WWII, what is unique about American Jews, and some of the conflict over the Israel as a Jewish state. Leaves you with a warm feeling and lots to think about. 'The Talmud says that a person should do two things for himself. One is to acquire a teacher...[the other is to] choose a friend...two people who are true friends are like two bodies with one soul.'" (Goodreads review by Elisabeth)
When Charlotte Kinder treats herself to a two-week vacation at Austenland, she happily leaves behind her ex-husband and his delightful new wife, her ever-grateful children, and all the rest of her real life in America. She dons a bonnet and stays at a country manor house that provides an immersive Austen experience, complete with gentleman actors who cater to the guests' Austen fantasies. Everyone at Pembrook Park is playing a role, but increasingly, Charlotte isn't sure where roles end and reality begins. The follow-up to reader favorite Austenland provides the same perfectly plotted pleasures, with a feisty new heroine, plenty of fresh and frightening twists, and the possibility of a romance that might just go beyond the proper bounds of Austen's world.
"I loved the mystery that our protagonist takes it upon herself to solve. Lots of clues, lots of dead ends, action, and some really good twists. I love mystery novels, and I think that is one of the reasons why I liked this novel a lot more than the first one. I also felt like the lead character was a lot more substantial, with true baggage and trials to work through. Her character arc was compelling, and taught me a lesson about healing." (Goodreads review by Kathy Cowley)
Imagine strapping on an oxygen tank — life in a bottle — and diving to the undiscovered depths of the ocean. Imagine swimming through the ghostly skeletal ruins of a sunken submarine, moving an inch a minute to avoid stirring up too much silt, and praying that the deteriorating structure around you does not collapse. Imagine risking your own life and watching fellow divers die, all in the name of discovery.
For John Chatterton and Richie Kohler that was life. That was how they uncovered the answer to one of the last mysteries of World War II. This book is their story. It's riveting, beautifully written and quite simply one of the best nonfiction adventure stories out there. Read it! (Teri Ha
This Thursday is our first meeting of the fall -- Sept. 13, 7 pm, at my house. We will finally be talking about Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand. I hope that you will be able to come!
If you can host our group during any of the upcoming months, please let me know! Thanks!
See you soon,
Heather
Upcoming schedule:
Sept. 13: Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand. Host: Heather Nuffer
Oct. 18: O Pioneers! by Willa Cather (PG book group set). Host: Alicia Andersen?
Nov. 8: Divergent by Veronica Roth. Host: Katie Patten?
Dec. 13: The Chimes by Charles Dickens
Jan. 10: Seabiscuit: An American Legend by Laura Hillenbrand
Feb. 21: One More River to Cross by Margaret Blair Young, Darius Aidan Gray
Mar. 14: The Chosen by Chaim Potok
Apr. 11: Midnight in Austenland by Shannon Hale
May 9: Shadow Divers by Robert Kurson
June 13: The Looking Glass Wars (The Looking Glass Wars #1) by Frank Beddor
Summer book: The Legend Thief (The Hunter Chronicles #2) by E.J. Patten
Details about each book:
O Pioneers! by Willa Cather: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/14...
One of America’s greatest women writers, Willa Cather established her talent and her reputation with this extraordinary novel—the first of her books set on the Nebraska frontier. A tale of the prairie land encountered by America’s Swedish, Czech, Bohemian, and French immigrants, as well as a story of how the land challenged them, changed them, and, in some cases, defeated them, Cather’s novel is a uniquely American epic. (from Goodreads)
"'A pioneer should have imagination, should be able to enjoy the idea of things more than the things themselves (27),' Willa Cather writes in her most famous novel, and with it, proves herself to be a pioneer of American literature. This is a must-read for anyone interested in an astute take on the westward expansion of our nation, told from the point-of-view of the female immigrants who had the vision to see what this country could become. It also charts with emotional precision the issues surrounding gender roles during this time, the pressure put on them as the country shifted from agriculture to education, and the working class began to split between the workers and the next generation, who were able to go to college from the money earned on the land. But, all of that, makes it sound so academic, and that's not accurate, because the real gift of Cather's writing is how great a story-teller she is, with twists and turns, love and loneliness, and even a murder that propels us to the beautiful conclusion. These characters and events will stay with you for a long, long time." (Goodreads review by Steven Rydman)
Divergent by Veronica Roth: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/83...
In Beatrice Prior's dystopian Chicago, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue--Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. For Beatrice, the decision is between staying with her family and being who she really is--she can't have both. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself.
Veronica Roth bursts onto the literary scene with the first book in the Divergent series--dystopian thrillers filled with electrifying decisions, heartbreaking betrayals, stunning consequences, and unexpected romance. (from Goodreads)
"There’s nothing Divergent doesn’t offer: high stakes, intrigue, action, romance and characters I’ve fallen in love with. Putting this book down at 3 in the morning to sleep is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. Divergent presents a rather chilling picture of what humans are really capable of. When a single trait is prized and cultivated in isolation from all others--intelligence without selflessness; bravery without compassion; honesty without wisdom--values which do make up the best of humanity are taken to extremes and become ugly, twisted, perverted things. You remove any selflessness from intelligence, and you wind up with greed for power, knowledge, and corruption." (from a review by Sarah on Goodreads)
The Chimes by Charles Dickens: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24...
This short story was written and published in 1844, one year after A Christmas Carol. It is the story of Trotty Veck, a poor ticket porter, whose outlook is changed from despair to hope by the spirits of the chimes on New Year's Eve.
"If A Christmas Carol is about making restitution after sins of commission, The Chimes is about the potential cost of sins of omission. The Chimes had just the right impact on me this year. The protagonist spends a great deal of the story not understanding what he did wrong, or rather, what he didn't do right. Getting back to my "sin of omission" thought, it's easy to detach oneself from Scrooge. Not quite so easy with Trotty Veck, the main character in The Chimes. He spends the entire story likable, or at least sympathetic. Yet, Dickin's makes the case that Trotty still needs to change/improve. He must be proactive and hopeful, not a willing victim of circumstance. This a compelling and thought-provoking theme, and oh so relevant today. The overall message of The Chimes is that hope is both a virtue and a choice, especially in a life of travail." (from a Goodreads review by Jake)
Seabiscuit: An American Legend by Laura Hillenbrand: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11...
Seabiscuit was one of the most electrifying and popular attractions in sports history and the single biggest newsmaker in the world in 1938, receiving more coverage than FDR, Hitler, or Mussolini. But his success was a surprise to the racing establishment, which had written off the crooked-legged racehorse with the sad tail. Author Laura Hillenbrand brilliantly re-creates a universal underdog story, one that proves life is a horse race. (from Goodreads)
"It really does read like a novel, and yet it is so deep - Ms. Hillenbrand has really explored her topic thoroughly and passes on all the details to us. There is a section where she describes the jockeys' experience of riding in a race that is one of the best pieces of prose I have ever, and will ever, read. I read it over and over. It's so visceral, she really puts you in the saddle, plus the prose is beautiful in and of itself. Another reason for the success of this novel is her success at placing the events in their historical context. She not only puts you in the saddle, she takes you back in time. This was one of the universally best-received choices we've read in book club. Everyone loved it, whether or not they cared at all about horses or sports." (Goodreads review by Stephanie "Jedigal" Blum)
One More River to Cross by Margaret Blair Young, Darius Aidan Gray: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18...
Powerful new historical fiction series that tells the stories of early African-American members of the Church. Co-author is Darius Aidan Gray. Margaret Blair Young teaches creative writing at Brigham Young University. Darius Aidan Gray is a former journalist. His grandfather was born a slave; his great grandfather was a slave near Independence, Missouri, and appears in the book.
"I learned a lot from this book about African American pioneers. So many of the stories were eye-opening and heart-wrenching. I am amazed by the characters' faith and perseverance amidst the horrible persecutions not only coming from the world, but from the Saints as well. I don't know if I could have endured their trials so well." (Goodreads review by Haley Call)
"I appreciated the narrative voice and the thoughtfulness behind each character. I loved that the writers were so careful in representing real figures making them well rounded and real, but in compassionate ways. I appreciated the notes at the end of each chapter and the clarifying details they provided. I think this book (and the others in the series) worked as a novel, history lesson, and artistic endeavor." (Goodreads review by Laura Craner)
The Chosen by Chaim Potok: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18...
"Anyone who finds it is finding a jewel. Its themes are profound and universal." --THE WALL STREET JOURNAL
It is the now-classic story of two fathers and two sons and the pressures on all of them to pursue the religion they share in the way that is best suited to each. And as the boys grow into young men, they discover in the other a lost spiritual brother, and a link to an unexplored world that neither had ever considered before. In effect, they exchange places, and find the peace that neither will ever retreat from again....
"It is very well written, and enjoyable as well as educational. It helped me better understand the Jewish faith and branches of Judaism, the horror of WWII, what is unique about American Jews, and some of the conflict over the Israel as a Jewish state. Leaves you with a warm feeling and lots to think about. 'The Talmud says that a person should do two things for himself. One is to acquire a teacher...[the other is to] choose a friend...two people who are true friends are like two bodies with one soul.'" (Goodreads review by Elisabeth)
Midnight in Austenland by Shannon Hale: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11...
When Charlotte Kinder treats herself to a two-week vacation at Austenland, she happily leaves behind her ex-husband and his delightful new wife, her ever-grateful children, and all the rest of her real life in America. She dons a bonnet and stays at a country manor house that provides an immersive Austen experience, complete with gentleman actors who cater to the guests' Austen fantasies. Everyone at Pembrook Park is playing a role, but increasingly, Charlotte isn't sure where roles end and reality begins. The follow-up to reader favorite Austenland provides the same perfectly plotted pleasures, with a feisty new heroine, plenty of fresh and frightening twists, and the possibility of a romance that might just go beyond the proper bounds of Austen's world.
"I loved the mystery that our protagonist takes it upon herself to solve. Lots of clues, lots of dead ends, action, and some really good twists. I love mystery novels, and I think that is one of the reasons why I liked this novel a lot more than the first one. I also felt like the lead character was a lot more substantial, with true baggage and trials to work through. Her character arc was compelling, and taught me a lesson about healing." (Goodreads review by Kathy Cowley)
Shadow Divers by Robert Kurson: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/95...
Imagine strapping on an oxygen tank — life in a bottle — and diving to the undiscovered depths of the ocean. Imagine swimming through the ghostly skeletal ruins of a sunken submarine, moving an inch a minute to avoid stirring up too much silt, and praying that the deteriorating structure around you does not collapse. Imagine risking your own life and watching fellow divers die, all in the name of discovery.
For John Chatterton and Richie Kohler that was life. That was how they uncovered the answer to one of the last mysteries of World War II. This book is their story. It's riveting, beautifully written and quite simply one of the best nonfiction adventure stories out there. Read it! (Teri Ha