Reading German Books in 2020 discussion
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(Heads Up on) The Eighth Life Readalong
Lizzy Siddal (Lizzy’s Literary Life) wrote: "Scribe UK @scribeUKbooks are hosting an Eighth Life Readalong over on Twitter from Monday April 20 to Friday May 9. Reading pace is about 50 pages per day.Now this was my 2019 Book of The Year, a..."
Lizzy, This would be marvellous but I find the Scribe interface too small for me. not as bad as the German Women short stories but still difficult. I do own a copy of this book and would like to be involved but not through Scribe. good thought thanks.
Penelope wrote: "Lizzy Siddal (Lizzy’s Literary Life) wrote: "Scribe UK @scribeUKbooks are hosting an Eighth Life Readalong over on Twitter from Monday April 20 to Friday May 9. Reading pace is about 50 pages per d..."I see the ambiguity. But this is not associated with Scribd. It is an initiative of Haratischvili’s UK publisher, Scribe UK.
You’ll need your own copy of the book (I’ve just noticed that the kindle edition is on offer at the moment for a paltry £2.99!) and all discussion will be on twitter (I think) - more details to follow.
Though if there’s a group of us here, there’s nothing to stop us having our own discussion.
Lizzy Siddal (Lizzy’s Literary Life) wrote: "Here’s a link to the publisher’s announcement tweet.https://twitter.com/scribeukbooks/sta..."
yes read your email properly! Checked out the Twitter announcement and I'm going to have a lovely read along. thanks.
The publisher has kindly given me permission to republish the readalong questions here.Day One: Pages 1-50
1) How is Georgia portrayed so far? How does the narrator feel about her country?
2) What is your first impression of Simon? Are you as swept away as Stasia?
3) This is the first time we hear about a very important hot chocolate? Do you think its magical properties are real?
Day Two: Pages 51-100
4) In Petrograd Stasia meets the unforgettable Thekla. Were you surprised by Thekla’s drastic actions?
5) Do you have any sympathy for what Simon experiences during the war? Or do you think he is the architect of his own misfortune?
6) What do you think of Christine and Ramas’ relationship? Is Christine right to value luxury over love?
Day 3: pages 100-150
7) What do you think about Stasia’s relationship with Sopio?
8) The removal of Christine’s mask sets off a chain of grave consequences. Was there any other way out of the situation?
9) What Ramas does to Christine is deeply upsetting. How do you feel about his actions?
Day Four: Pages 151-200
10) In these pages we meet Georgi Alania? What is your first impression of him?
11) Kostya experiences his first love with Ida. What do you think about the way he handles the relationship with her?
12) Stasia once again sets off from Georgia to Russia. Do you think sh’s right to travel to Moscow to find Kostya?
Day 5: Pages 201-250
No questions from the publisher, but a link to an author interview with no spoilers.
https://lithub.com/nino-haratischvili...
Bonus questions from me (because this is what I find myself thinking about). Feel free to add questions of your own.
13) What do you feel about the narrator’s inventions? Do they augment the threats faced by her characters or could she perhaps be over-egging the pudding?
14) “Sometimes, Brilka, stories repeat themselves, and overlap.” p 161 Have you spotted any repeating patterns in the carpet that the narrator is creating with her stories?
15) Anyone get through today’s pages without crying?
Day Six: Pages 251-300
16) Kostya and Mariam seem to be two very different people. What do you think drew them to each other?
17) Andro returns to Tbilisi a changed man, and his relationship with Kitty continues to break down. Do you think Kitty should have told him the truth about what happened to her?
18) Kitty encourages Mariam to seek out Alla instead of telling her everything she knows. Why do you think she does this?
Day 7: Pages 301 - 350
No questions for take it easy Sunday.
Piece of trivia: In 2017 The Eighth Life was adapted into a play, which premiered at the Thalia theatre in Hamburg. It was 5 hours long.
Day 8: Pages 351-400
19) Christine confronts the Little Big Man for the first time since his disfigurement. What do you think about her method of revenge?
20) Kitty and Fred continue to become closer until Fred leaves for America. Were you relieved or disappointed to see her leave?
21) Why do you think Kostya refuses to share his past with Nana? Do you think he will ever open up to her?
Day9: Pages 401-450
22) Elene becomes an angry, unhappy child in these pages. Where do you think these feeling come from?
23) Do you think anyone is to blame for what happens between Elene and Miqa?
24) Amy discovers Kitty’s relationship with Fred? Do you think she will ever forgive Kitty?
Day 10 451-500
We’ve passed the halfway point!
To celebrate the publisher has announced a live interview with the author and her translators. Friday 8th May at 5:00 pm (UK time) on the youtube channel @lonesomereader.
If you have any questions, you’re invited to post them over on the instagram announcement at https://www.instagram.com/p/B_kN5-FAK...
N.B. Readalong questions from day 11 can be found in message 65 on this thread.
I am interested in reading this book. I do have a copy. However I don’t want to be on Twitter. Is there any group doing this on Instagram? I would love to join in there.
My answer to question 2.Oh gosh yes! But I love Stasia more. She’s my favourite character in the whole book and I am delighted to meet up with her again. I’ve never stopped thinking about her in the 6 months since I first read Haratischvili’s epic.
I can join in here. I will read the first 50 and get back to you here.
Great! Look forward to it.
I looked on the site on Twitter and found the announcement but not the breakdown of the pages each day. Do you know these? I am creating a bookmark for myself and I want to put the page # for each day on it.
It’s about 50 pages a day. Scribe haven’t said more than that. So I’m just reading to the end of the whichever chapter 50 pages takes me to. So tomorrow I’ll be reading to page 105 (English translation).I’m starting each day with this - I love the novel so much, I can’t think of a better start to lockdown days. But if you’re an evening reader, Scribe are publishing their questions on twitter/instagram at 2.00 pm each day. That will tell you how many pages to read.
I’m just going to add each day’s questions to message 6 in this thread, so that they’re all together for reference purposes. So as you comment, it would be useful to refer to the question number or even quote the question, so that we all can follow the flow.
My book is hard bound, doing 50 pages a day will have me finish a day early. That’s fine. I appreciate you posting all the questions!
Jenni wrote: "Hi! I just got my copy, today. Would love to join in."Fantastic! The more the merrier!
#1. Georgia is portrayed as backward, steeped in the past, and an unwilling addition to Russia. The narrator loves Georgia above all other lands with a nostalgia born from the beauty of the country she left.
#2. I think he is calculating and intelligent. He looks at every situation to see how it will benefit himself. No, I am not enraptured like Stasia. His military background will come to change him into a rigid conformist which will squelch Stacia’s spirit.
#3. I think the large concentration of chocolate, which we all know contains quite a bit of caffeine, will seem to make the concoction magical, when in reality it will cause an unhealthy addiction.
Just from this first 50 pages, I am already invested totally in this book. Stasia is a delightful young woman whom I admire. All the characters are very interesting and the novel already has an air of theater and majesty for me. The tone of the book is also very intimate with the narrator’s voice. Looking forward to continuing tomorrow!
Lizzy Siddal (Lizzy’s Literary Life) wrote: "The publisher has kindly given me permission to republish the readalong questions here.Day One: Pages 1-50
1) How is Georgia portrayed so far? How does the narrator feel about her country?
2) W..."
Thanks for sorting the questions out for us Lizzy.
This is a great read!
1. Georgians are very proud of their country but it was interesting to read the difference in opinions of Stasia's parents. I loved the commandments of the country, the endearing traits and the less endearing ones.
2. Initially I thought Simon a good match for the joyful enthusiasm of Stasia but after some pages felt he was a little too self satisfied and pompous.
3. Magic? of course there is magic in the chocolate and the making of the drink. All those cakes made my mouth water.
I am a day late getting the book, but will join and try to catch up...
Day Two: Pages 51-1004) In Petrograd Stasia meets the unforgettable Thekla. Were you surprised by Thekla’s drastic actions?
Not entirely, although I didn't think she would end her life so dramatically. However, her personality was very dramatic, so it makes sense. I think she felt trapped and saw this as the only way out.
5) Do you have any sympathy for what Simon experiences during the war? Or do you think he is the architect of his own misfortune?
I think he was such an idealist he couldn't see the dark side of what he was getting into. In a way I am glad he was bothered by what he did, it shows he has a conscience.
6) What do you think of Christine and Ramas’ relationship? Is Christine right to value luxury over love?
I think Christine is admired and respected by Ramas as he admires his art. Christine has always love luxury, so it fits her personality. She sees her life with Ramas as a way to enjoy that luxury and never have to be deprived.
Day Two: Pages 51-1004) In Petrograd Stasia meets the unforgettable Thekla. Were you surprised by Thekla’s drastic actions?
Not really. The world as she knew and enjoyed it is gone, never to return. She has no reason to engage with the new order.
5) Do you have any sympathy for what Simon experiences during the war? Or do you think he is the architect of his own misfortune?
At one point Stasia says she wasn’t convinced by her white-red lieutenant’s conversion. I couldn’t fathom it either. But it’s all there on page 46. Simon’s playing the odds, siding with those in the ascendancy, and thinking that this will stand his future in better stead. Famous last words ....
To quote the epigraph on page 67
“Civil war has its laws, as is well known, and they have never been the laws of humanity. Leon Trotsky”
6) What do you think of Christine and Ramas’ relationship? Is Christine right to value luxury over love?
Christine is 17, the same age as Stasia when she married for love. But we and she have seen how that panned out. “And what happiness did your great love bring you, sister dear?” is a valid response when Stasia questions her motivations. And Ramas does love her, so a life of luxury has got to be worth a shot ...
Jenni wrote: "How did you guys get the questions posted? Or did you just type it in as you went along? Thanks"Just copied and pasted text from message 6 and then filled in my thoughts.
4) Thekla is a wonderful example of an age which had was well and truly over. she would never have coped with travelling with Stasia. I was not surprised at all.5) I had very little sympathy for Simon. I do not think he knew what he wanted or indeed how to truly get it. He did believe in the party values but didn't seem to have the means of execution (no pun intended) . Does he reappear? No don't tell me.
6) Interesting that Christina was the same age as Stasia when she married. yes she was beautiful and collected by the lover of beautiful things.
Day 3: pages 100-1507) What do you think about Stasia’s relationship with Sopio?
I think Stasia idolized Sopio's courage and freedom but gradually realized Sopio would pay for it dearly.
8) The removal of Christine’s mask sets off a chain of grave consequences. Was there any other way out of the situation?
No, I don't think so. Ramas was proud of his wife's looks so he wanted to show her off and Christine was aloof to men's constant admiration. Neither one of them could foresee the tragic conclusion or understood Stalin's maniacal power.
9) What Ramas does to Christine is deeply upsetting. How do you feel about his actions?
I think it is very sad. I remember thinking earlier that the only way Christine would get away from Stalin was to become ugly to him. Staline was so obsessed with Christine I don't think sending her away would have worked.
This book is becoming more and more interesting. I have a hard time stopping each day!
Kristin wrote: "This book is becoming more and more interesting. I have a hard time stopping each day! "I’m glad to say that’s my issue too! Although I found I had to stop yesterday to fully process the Ramas/Christine incident.
Day 3: pages 100-1507) What do you think about Stasia’s relationship with Sopio?
I’m wondering if Sopio is a reflection of what Stasia herself would have become, had she chosen to strike out independently instead of staying with her family while waiting for her husband to return. Maybe ... but although Stasia isn’t a conformist, neither is she courageous. Perhaps Stasia loves Sopio becauses she is everything she aspires to but will never be.
8) The removal of Christine’s mask sets off a chain of grave consequences. Was there any other way out of the situation?
“You shouldn’t have done that”, says Christine when Ramas removes the mask on the Little Big Man’s orders. What an understatement,
Was there a small window of opportunity to flee abroad? Possibly. But as the Little Big Man (Laurent Beria) makes his entrance to the fateful New Year’s Party, the narrator is at pains to establish that he is the Head of the Chekists, the most powerful man in the country. His long arm would probably have caught them before they’d reached the border.
9) What Ramas does to Christine is deeply upsetting. How do you feel about his actions?
It’s an act of utter desperation. And I can’t believe I’m about to type this, but I do wonder if murder/suicide would have been kinder.
Eighth Life Readalong . Day 3 . Questions 100-1507. In her relationship with Sopio Stasia saw what she could have been or what she could aspire to and still could be. Stasia was more than once told she lived in a dream, unaware of what was around her. Sopio represented excitement and challenges and freedom. Stasia’s caution was telling her the consequences would be dire. And they were.
8. The removal of Christine’s mask. At first I thought it was vanity preventing her from removing the mask. But I think Christine knew it would not augur well. Ramas was proud of his wife and wanted to show her off but he also knew that to refuse was a grave mistake for them both.
9. What Ramas did to Christine was horrifying. The only way to remove her from that man’s influence? As awful as it was I agree with Lizzy and think maybe murder/suicide would have been the answer.
Day Four: Pages 151-20010) In these pages we meet Georgi Alania? What is your first impression of him?
I think he is quiet, meek and intelligent. He worships Kostya.
11) Kostya experiences his first love with Ida. What do you think about the way he handles the relationship with her?
He seems ashamed of her since he doesn't want his fellow sailors to know about her. Kostya is kind of an enigma to me. I just know he craves his dad's attention. I think he will have trouble forming lasting relationships with women after this experience.
12) Stasia once again sets off from Georgia to Russia. Do you think sh’s right to travel to Moscow to find Kostya?
No, she is putting herself at great risk. She doesn't realize what could happen to her. I do understand she is so crazed from her inability to be able to control the situation.
10) In these pages we meet Georgi Alania? What is your first impression of him?His is a really quiet entrance as a sidekick in Kostya’s show. But the narrator does not want us to be fooled. He is a lynchpin. “without Alania, parts of our story would never have come together .... without him, I might not be able to tell the story in this way.” p 150
11) Kostya experiences his first love with Ida. What do you think about the way he handles the relationship with her?
He’s a puppy, seduced by a much older woman. Of course, he doesn’t know how to handle it! Can’t blame him for that. Ida, however, puzzles me. Not her need, but why she dumps him so brutally.
12) Stasia once again sets off from Georgia to Russia. Do you think she’s right to travel to Moscow to find Kostya?
What does she think she’s doing? This is beyond eccentricity. It’s madness.
10. Georgi Alania. As soon as his back story was told I knew we were in for a treat. I'm excited that we will have more of this quiet, clever, loyal boy. He and Kostya are polar opposites but I loved the contrast between them.11. Kostya in love or lust is an experience. but he is young and has a lot to learn. Yes I agree with Lizzy that the way Ida threw him over was puzzling. She as the mature women would have realised the futility and he was off to bigger and better things.
12.Stasia what is going on? What were you thinking?. I suppose we knew what Kostya's posting was and where he was going but she would not have had that knowledge. Felt the doom settling when she arrived in Moscow was almost afraid to read on.
Oh, this part is so hard to read! I didn't cry, but like Kitty, I would want revenge for what was done to her. I wonder if we will see her seeking that revenge in the future. Simon's death seems ordained. He lived by the sword, and died by the sword. War has crushed his spirit and his body.I am sad at how hard Kostya has become. He represents what the dictatorship of the Soviet Union has done to its people, taken away their compassion and individualism.
I really want to know what has happened to Georgi Alania. We know from before that he is going to play an important role in Kostya's life now that the war is over, so I am very curious.
You asked if the narrator's embellishments bothered us. I think they add to the story and remind us that is what the narrator is doing, handing down stories of what has happened in their family history. And embellishments are added to many stories over time. I think the embellishments add a personal touch to the narrative.
I enjoyed the interview with the author. I especially found the discussion on sibling rivalry relevant to this book. I come from a family of five kids and I have four of my own, long grown. Sibling rivalry shaped many of the relationships I have with my siblings and children. I am looking forward to the future sibling rivalries that appear in this book.
A funny story here! I actually thought my book had missing pages at the end. I had actually composed a message to all of you asking if your book had pages after the Book VIII Brilka page! Now I understand the author's thinking. I actually received a Harry Potter novel once that had a section missing in the middle!
I love the reference to this book being the Georgian Gone With the Wind. I would agree and I am enjoying this one as much as Gone With the Wind, which is one of my favorite books.
Thanks for sharing this link! It definitely answered some questions I had about the cultural mentality of Georgia.
I’m about to listen to the interview but in my bid not to read ahead I have fallen a little behind. It’s so hard to stop! I’m not quite ready for day six questions.Thanks for bonus questions!
13. The inventions are to me all part of building the personal history of the family so it seems to read naturally and smoothly
14. And again any overlapping or and repetition is part of the woven rug. All those strands and stories coming together so well.
15. I didn’t cry but found it quite difficult to read. Went into my garden and then came back and reread it all. I did, however, cry through Ida’s story and am thrilled about the promise of the meeting to come.
I had to play the Grieg piece of music (sob) and like Jenni I am keeping my atlas close by. Russia is huge!
Day 6 pages 251-30016) Kostya and Mariam seem to be two very different people. What do you think drew them to each other?
Was Mariam attracted or even overwhelmed by Kostya’s war record, sophistication and worldliness? Also because she was devoted to Kitty maybe that was part of the attraction. Maybe Kostya was attracted to the quiet competence she displayed. I’m sure love was also a factor. They did take some time to get to know each other when she was obviously attracted and he sought her company.
17) Andro returns to Tbilisi a changed man, and his relationship with Kitty continues to break down. Do you think Kitty should have told him the truth about what happened to her?
Two ways of looking at this: If she wanted the relationship to be rescued honesty might have been the best way to start afresh. On the other hand, he was so broken it would have completely destroyed him. Keeping it from him was the best way. A hard decision indeed.
18. Kitty encourages Mariam to seek out Alla instead of telling her everything she knows. Why do you think she does this?
I had such a hard time with this chapter. I am still trying to process it all. Surely Kitty must have realised how Mariam would react? When Kitty finally tells Kostya he 'stood rigid, leaning wide-eyes against the wall. It was clear he couldn't deal with this and didn't want to...' That is how I felt.
Playing catch up ....Day 5: Pages 201-250
13) What do you feel about the narrator’s inventions? Do they augment the threats faced by her characters or could she perhaps be over-egging the pudding?
Thanks so much for your comments re oral histories. This makes sense. As you can tell from my question, the sometimes florid overemphasis on an approaching event was beginning to tell on me. (A crack in the universe appearing just before Beria walks through the door, for instance. Really?)
I did notice there was none of this before Kitty’s trauma. However, Christine did give her a cup of chocolate, and I was begging her not to do it. Sometimes less is more when it comes to approaching doom.
14) “Sometimes, Brilka, stories repeat themselves, and overlap.” p 161 Have you spotted any repeating patterns in the carpet that the narrator is creating with her stories?
The one that springs out at me currently are the couplings. Older with younger. Stasia/Simon, Christine/Ramas, Kostya/Ida.
15) Anyone get through today’s pages without crying?
The first time I read these pages I so horrified at what happened to Kitty that I turned to stone. This time, yes, I cried.
Day Six: Pages 251-300
16) Kostya and Mariam seem to be two very different people. What do you think drew them to each other?
The security that each promises the other. Kostya, the golden boy of the regime, offers Mariam protection from those that have abused her in the past. Mariam’s steadfastness will ensure that Kostya’s heart is not broken again.
17) Andro returns to Tbilisi a changed man, and his relationship with Kitty continues to break down. Do you think Kitty should have told him the truth about what happened to her?
No. Why kick a man when he is already down? I also think Kitty knew that the damage was done and the relationship could not be salvaged. What good could come of telling him?
18) Kitty encourages Mariam to seek out Alla instead of telling her everything she knows. Why do you think she does this?
Curiosity as to how Mariam would react. I don’t think she anticipated the vehemence of it (particularly when she seemed to be prepared to walk away).
Day Six: Pages 251-30016) Kostya and Mariam seem to be two very different people. What do you think drew them to each other?
I think Kostya wanted stability in his life and Mariam wanted to be close to the family she had such a strong connection with. As with other women, Kostya charmed Mariam.
17) Andro returns to Tbilisi a changed man, and his relationship with Kitty continues to break down. Do you think Kitty should have told him the truth about what happened to her?
I don't think it would have made any difference. He was a shattered man with no feelings left.
18) Kitty encourages Mariam to seek out Alla instead of telling her everything she knows. Why do you think she does this?
I think it is because she and Mariam share this history so she hopes Mariam will help her deal with Alla. She also wants to see mariam's reaction.
I was so tense reading the scene in Alla's house. I thought for sure Mariam would end up being killed by Alla. It's as if she really was, as it turned out.
I don't understand why Kitty and Mariam didn't just try to cover up the crime and leave. I don't think anyone would have connected them to Alla. They both had to know by telling Kostya there would be terrible consequences for them.
I was disgusted at all the women's attitude toward Kostya. They let him have complete control of them and I despise him for only thinking of his own reputation with this and blaming Kitty for everything that happened. All of them are so damaged, but his damage turns to cruelty.
On another note, I have yet to see a male character be a very admirable one. Anyone else seeing this?
I am enjoying reading everyone's comments. This is such a wonderful book to discuss!
Jenni wrote: "Kristin wrote: "Oh, this part is so hard to read! I didn't cry, but like Kitty, I would want revenge for what was done to her. I wonder if we will see her seeking that revenge in the future. Simon'..."My mother was one of 8, so I get this. Lots of interesting dynamics in her family where she was #7 and the only girl. I had students in school who came from a family of 19. It was so interesting to see the differences in those siblings down the line.
Gone With the Wind reads with the same pageantry and drama as The Eighth Life. I have read it twice and could read it again. I love the movie too.
Finally caught up on the reading, and very much enjoying it if that can be said about such an intense and tragic story. This is really a great read so far, if also heartbreaking. I feel what also makes it so interesting is that it tells the well-known history from the women's point of view. I haven't cried so far but have found many parts to be shocking and difficult, yet I think true to life of what was going on at that time based on other readings.I've enjoyed reading everyone's comments very much. Since I'm joining in so late there's not much to add, so I will not respond to the questions asked so far but will start tomorrow.
Day 8: Pages 351-40019) Christine confronts the Little Big Man for the first time since his disfigurement. What do you think about her method of revenge?
Sweet revenge indeed. I read on Wikipedia about Lavrentiy Beria, who was truly awful. I liked that he got his just desserts via the magical chocolate. Of course it could just be a coincidence...
20) Kitty and Fred continue to become closer until Fred leaves for America. Were you relieved or disappointed to see her leave?
I think I was relieved to see Fred leave because her presence caused so much self-doubt and uncertainty for Kitty, and I'd like to see Kitty become more comfortable with herself.
21) Why do you think Kostya refuses to share his past with Nana? Do you think he will ever open up to her?
I think Kostya is so bewitched by his past love, damaged by his war experience, and trapped within his controlling way of dealing with the world that he cannot open himself to anyone. I can't imagine he will open up to her unless some very dramatic event occurs that breaks through his protective shell.
Thank you, Jenni for the warm welcome.
reply | flag *
Hi Samy, welcome to the discussion!Day 8: Pages 351-400
19) Christine confronts the Little Big Man for the first time since his disfigurement. What do you think about her method of revenge?
Revenge is a dish best served cold, or in this case a chocolate served hot. Though there was something extremely cool in Christine’s approach. Beria deserved everything he got.
20) Kitty and Fred continue to become closer until Fred leaves for America. Were you relieved or disappointed to see her leave?
I cannot abide Fred. She’s as damaged as the rest of them but she uses people. Her utter disregard for the feelings of those who care for her Is abominable. Everyone, not just Kitty, is better off without her.
Interestingly, the narrator is much more sympathetic to Fred, but I simply do not believe her when she implies on p392 that Fred purposely disappeared to America to allow the two women she left behind to come into their own. She is far too self-centred for that.
21) Why do you think Kostya refuses to share his past with Nana? Do you think he will ever open up to her?
Kostya has two types of secrets: those that threaten to destroy his standing in the Soviet world and those that threaten his fragile emotional equilibrium. He can’t afford to let Nana know about the first set. And following receipt of the letter confirming Ida’s death, he’s put himself into cold storage. I don’t think he’s capable of thawing out sufficiently to be emotionally open with his wife.
It’s a tragedy for Nina. When she realises, she too starts erecting an emotional carapace around herself. She would have been better off leaving him.
Day 8: Pages 351-400Welcome Sami. Good to have another opinion. This is such a good book.
19) Christine confronts the Little Big Man for the first time since his disfigurement. What do you think about her method of revenge?
She was magnificent. She planned her moves and her revenge with such courage. And of course he fell under her spell and accepted the chocolate. Brilliant working of the history into our story.
20) Kitty and Fred continue to become closer until Fred leaves for America. Were you relieved or disappointed to see her leave?
I was actually a little puzzled by Fred’s role in the overall story. I know she helped Kitty to wake up to life and love but I felt she was a bit pointless. Not a pleasant person, a user and a selfish person. Kitty and Amy were doing well on their own. Of course, could it be that the voice on the phone planned the whole thing for Kitty’s sake. There is no way he didn’t know what was happening in her life. Yes, good thing she went off to America but have we seen the last of her?
21) Why do you think Kostya refuses to share his past with Nana? Do you think he will ever open up to her?
Poor Kostya. It must be such a burden to have to be so secretive both in his work and in his private life. He is sworn to secrecy by the state but his inability to open up to Nana is very sad. Of course, the family would have been foolish to tell the history. It had to be buried for their safety even in the new regime. It was a shame to me that Nana could not relax and enjoy the house alive with plants and wildlife.
I've been doing the readalong via Instagram mainly but then saw on Twitter (where I am less active!) that there was a group on here discussing it which I thought would be even better :-).19) Christine confronts the Little Big Man for the first time since his disfigurement. What do you think about her method of revenge?
Her method of revenge, right down to the dress, was perfectly and coolly executed. I wonder how significant it is too that she finally accepts the "bad luck" of the secret chocolate recipe?
20) Kitty and Fred continue to become closer until Fred leaves for America. Were you relieved or disappointed to see her leave?
I think the point of Fred is that she is the first person that Kitty feels actually really SEES her - maybe through also having a very traumatic past. She is an interesting but not hugely likable character, I agree, and I felt relieved that she was out of the picture for now as I think she is not ultimately going to be a positive influence on Kitty's life/recovery!
21) Why do you think Kostya refuses to share his past with Nana? Do you think he will ever open up to her?
Kostya has built up lots of barricades around himself and I don't think he is capable of sharing his past. Maybe he's worried if he does, he won't be able to keep things under control which seems to be the thing he craves most. I feel sorry for Nana - she was propelled rather quickly into this marriage and life, wasn't she?
Penelope wrote: "Day 8: Pages 351-400Of course, could it be that the voice on the phone planned the whole thing for Kitty’s sake. “
That is such an interesting thought, Penelope ...
22) Elene becomes an angry, unhappy child in these pages. Where do you think these feeling come from?Poor Elene's life went quite suddenly from one extreme to another. She had a somewhat anarchic but loving childhood with the women but then was catapulted into a very rigid one with her father only to be expected to adapt again to being back with her mother and great aunts.
23) Do you think anyone is to blame for what happens between Elene and Miqa?
I found this scene supremely difficult to read. A rape scene where it really isn't clear who is raping and who is being raped? I don't think the blame can be laid entirely at any one person's door though I agree with Jenni that Kostya must shoulder a fair amount of it, having (a) conspired to turn her against both her mother and (b) consistently bad-mouthed Miqa. She has also learned a fairly warped idea of sexuality from him, perhaps, with his string of glamorous lipsticked lovers baring gifts for her. The thing that triggers Elene's anger here is that Miqa knows more about the exiled Kitty, so maybe if everyone had been more open with Elene about Kitty then this would not have happened.
24) Amy discovers Kitty’s relationship with Fred? Do you think she will ever forgive Kitty?
I am hopeful that Amy will forgive Kitty as she knows what Fred's history is and that she is a serial seducer. However, when it comes to love affairs, that is not always how people aportion the blame. I hope it doesn't lead to any hardship for Kitty, she has certainly had her fair share of that already.
Hello and welcome Viv!I’ll start on Day 9 answers, though I’m loathe even to approach question 23.
Day9: Pages 401-450
22) Elene becomes an angry, unhappy child in these pages. Where do you think these feeling come from?
Not only is she a child torn between two parents, she’s a child torn between two countries. Although we know this was not done maliciously, the reality of her being having been passed from pillar to post, can only have been interpreted by her as the adults in her life not caring about her feelings. Is it a wonder that she becomes a rebellious adolescent. They don’t give a toss about me, why should I care about them?
23) Do you think anyone is to blame for what happens between Elene and Miqa?
If only I could blame it on the chocolate!
I have a feeling that Kostya is going to blame it on Stasia, because she won’t abandon the family of her friend Sopio. But seriously how much ill can come from loyalty of that kind?
I’m trying to work out how old the two kids are. I think Elene is 14 when she returns to Georgia, but how much time has passed since then? A year, maybe less, but in that time Elene has gone completely off the rails.
Miqa is the same age, and the two harbour deep resentments against each other.
So what the hell is Elene playing at? A game in which she gets completely out of her depth? And Miqa, why or why did you not leave the room while you could?
I am angry with Elene, and I’m fearful for Miqa. I’m just about to read today’s pages, and I feel physically sick.
24) Amy discovers Kitty’s relationship with Fred? Do you think she will ever forgive Kitty?
I am so disappointed in Kitty for letting Fred coming anywhere near her again. I don’t know about Amy forgiving her, I’m not sure I will.
Sorry, I got behind. Will try to get caught up today.Day 8: Pages 351-400
19) Christine confronts the Little Big Man for the first time since his disfigurement. What do you think about her method of revenge?
I think her revenge was very appropriate and crafty. There was no way anyone would detect that she had been responsible for Little Big Man's downfall. When I read about bones being found at his house just before the conclusion to this revenge plot I was worried Christine would be killed.
20) Kitty and Fred continue to become closer until Fred leaves for America. Were you relieved or disappointed to see her leave?
I intensely dislike Fred so I was glad she left. She is a selfish person who only uses relationships for her own end. I hope Kitty stays away from her if she returns. She needs to form healthier relationships with someone who really cares about her.
21) Why do you think Kostya refuses to share his past with Nana? Do you think he will ever open up to her?
I think Kostya compartmentalizes his past so he can control his emotions. He wants to be such a contained person and to give in to his emotions makes him dislike himself. I don't think he will every talk about his past with Nana or anyone else, for that matter.
A belated welcome to Samy! The more voices the more we understand this complex family!
Penelope wrote: "Day 8: Pages 351-400Welcome Sami. Good to have another opinion. This is such a good book.
19) Christine confronts the Little Big Man for the first time since his disfigurement. What do you think a..."
I also wondered if the voice on the phone also planned for Fred to leave the U.S. It seems too coincidental not to be planned by him. By the way, anyone else besides me think they know the identity of the voice on the phone?
Day9: Pages 401-45022) Elene becomes an angry, unhappy child in these pages. Where do you think these feeling come from?
Yes, she is totally confused about where she stands. I can’t believe the differences between her mother and her father. I suppose the differences between the way of life in the country, Georgia and the city, Moscow. Elene is spoilt so her anger and unhappiness ensures attention.
23) Do you think anyone is to blame for what happens between Elene and Miqa?
Must have been the chocolate, surely!
I am asking myself is this how their deep antipathy to each other plays out. Borne out of jealousy as each vie for attention and affection. Elene’s behaviour is outrageous but understandable. Miqa I cannot warm to. He is shadowy where Elene for all her outrageous behaviour is a full of life. We are told he is a strapping youth on the one hand but subservient and lost. This section has so much going on and I am still trying to sort it out in my mind.
24) Amy discovers Kitty’s relationship with Fred? Do you think she will ever forgive Kitty?
Amy’s anger is totally understandable and maybe she feels relieved to be free of Fred. I hope she forgives Kitty as the Kitty and Amy relationship has much more going for it than either one with Fred.
I hope the voice on the phone is who I think it is. I'll be really disappointed if its not!
Day9: Pages 401-45022) Elene becomes an angry, unhappy child in these pages. Where do you think these feeling come from?
She is pulled one way and another by all her family and has no idea what her identity really is. Her messed-up family has harmed her immensely and she is wanting to hurt them back.
23) Do you think anyone is to blame for what happens between Elene and Miqa?
Mostly I think her grandmother Stasia and her aunt Christine are to blame for indulging her so much, never setting rules for her, and letting her run wild. Then they replace her with Miqa and do the same thing with him, which inflames her jealousy and hurt. They never see the repercussions on their actions.
24) Amy discovers Kitty’s relationship with Fred? Do you think she will ever forgive Kitty? I hope so. I think Amy will realize that Fred was manipulating Kitty, just as she had Amy.
I also will be disappointed if the voice on the phone isn't who I think it is. I can't think it could be anyone else.
@Lizzy, regarding their ages, I think somewhere it said Elene had an abortion at 15, but I can't find it now.Yes, I definitely feel certain I know who the voice on the phone is. We shall see.
Day 9: Pages 401-450
22) Elene becomes an angry, unhappy child in these pages. Where do you think these feeling come from?
Elene seems so lonely and desperate for love since she was used as a pawn in her parents' game with each other. The fact that she can so easily manipulate her father against her mother does not help since that power dynamic is wrong for a child and parents. She is tortured by her jealousy and fear that Miqa has taken her place in the hearts of her family in Georgia.
23) Do you think anyone is to blame for what happens between Elene and Miqa?
Oh, such a difficult question. Elene's rage is clear and she acts out but gets way in over her head, which teenagers are susceptible to doing. On the other hand, Miqa's reaction is not easily understandable. He tries to get away, and although he is obviously far stronger physically and at first tries not to hurt her, he ends up hurting her more. For both, a love-hate relationship and for us a painful scene to read about. I don't think the family could have seen this coming, although there was foreshadowing to us the readers since they both drank the dreaded hot chocolate potion.
24) Amy discovers Kitty’s relationship with Fred. Do you think she will ever forgive Kitty?
Fred does not seem to really care for either Amy or Kitty, so perhaps they will find common ground together, once they realize they are in thrall to a person who doesn't seem capable of reciprocating their love.
Now this was my 2019 Book of The Year, and I have been looking for the perfect opportunity to reread it. It’s a bit earlier than I was intending, but I suspect the publishers will be making lots of additional material available, and the translators will be on hand to answer questions. And we’re in lockdown for another 3 weeks in the UK, so why not?
Anyone care to join me?