Ultimate Popsugar Reading Challenge discussion
2022 Weekly Check-Ins
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Week 38: 9/15 - 9/22
Good morning! It's been fairly rainy here in NEOhio this week (and muggy, temps have mostly been in the 80F range again) but we're in for a cooldown coming into the weekend! I think the high for today is 62F - perfect autumn weather for reading on yet another overnight camping excursion. I have the excuse of not needing to be at work tomorrow until much later in the morning than usual, and I'm taking full advantage.Do we have planned group reads for Oct/Nov/Dec?
It was a good reading week! I finished three books, and I'm closing in on finishing the PS challenge!
Hunter of Stories - 5 stars. A fantastic collection of vignettes and short stories from one of the greatest voices in Latin America. So very glad I stumbled upon this.
Killing the Black Body: Race, Reproduction, and the Meaning of Liberty - 5 stars. August/September read with my Radical Reads nonfiction group, and it did not disappoint. Book with a quote from your favorite author on the cover - I loved Michelle Alexander's The New Jim Crow, and she gave a cover quote for one of the later print runs.
Ophie's Ghosts - 5 stars. An excellent historical fantasy. Ophie and her mother move to Pittsburgh in the 1920s and Ophie can not only see and talk to ghosts, but help them pass on. If this was around when I was a kid, I would've loved it then too. Book about the afterlife
PS 47/50
Currently:
Red Knight Falling
The Neverending Story
QOTW: Have you/would you read Mein Kampf? What would you think if you saw someone else reading it?
I did own a copy some years ago and made an attempt, but it was an absolute slog. From my DNF review: The historical aspect was interesting; when he talked about his life and growing up. But that part was unfortunately only peppered between his waxing philosophical about the ways of the world and how much he hated the Marxists and the Jews, and bemoaning the fact that he didn't get into art school. And this all in the first 40 pages!
I doubt I would judge anyone else for picking it up unless there were outward warning signs on or about their person (tattoos, jacket patches/pins, etc).
I'm reading The Last Mile. I'm about 30 pages to the end. They keep coming up with what I think are supposed to be gasp-worthy surprises and I'm like, yeah, I knew that 50 pages ago. However, there's supposed to be some gaspworthy surprise coming up at the end and I don't know what it is, but based on everything else we know, not really sure how shocking it could be. All that is not to say it's not a good book. It actually it is. I'm enjoying it.QOTW: I have not read it. I don't think I have any particular desire to read it. But, that may change. Who knows? As far as seeing someone else read it well if they have swastikas tattooed on their arms, that would probably just confirm to me what I would already be thinking based on the swastikas. But, other that that, I don't think I would think anything of it. There's no denying that it's of historical value. The most notorious leader of the last century wrote it.
Happy Thursday, everyone!This was a pretty crazy week… I had an opportunity to do a little more house hunting over the weekend, and I actually found the one that’s going to be my new home! I put in an offer the afternoon I saw it, and the seller accepted it within a couple of hours!
I probably won’t be able to move in until the beginning of November, but I am so excited! It will be nice to be able to take my time with the rest of my packing, and not feel like I’m rushing through the whole home-buying process.
Even though it was a busy week, I did find time to get back into reading. I managed to finish three out of the four books I was working on last week, and I’m about halfway through the fourth. I also took some time out to get caught up on some of my ongoing manga series, and read a few new ones. I really enjoyed all of the manga I read this week, and I’m looking forward to reading the next volumes as soon as they’re available.
Goodreads: 490/200
TBR Checklist: 406/973
Finished Reading (Fiction):
~The Librarian and the Orc
~Good Neighbors: The Full Collection
Finished Reading (Nonfiction):
~Forensics and Fiction: Clever, Intriguing, and Downright Odd Questions from Crime Writers
Finished Reading (Manga, Comic Books, & Graphic Novels):
~Essential Doctor Strange, Vol. 1
~A Girl & Her Guard Dog, Vol. 1
~A Girl and Her Guard Dog, Vol. 2
~A Girl and Her Guard Dog, Vol. 3
~A Girl & Her Guard Dog, Vol. 4
~A Girl and Her Guard Dog, Vol. 5
~A Girl & Her Guard Dog, Vol. 6
~A Girl and Her Guard Dog, Vol. 7
~Boss Wife, Vol. 1
~Boss Wife, Vol. 2
~Boss Wife Vol. 3
~Boss Wife Vol. 4
~Abe-kun's Got Me Now!, Vol. 1
~Abe-kun's Got Me Now!, Vol. 2
~Abe-kun's Got Me Now!, Vol. 3
~Abe-kun's Got Me Now!, Vol. 4
~Abe-kun's Got Me Now!, Vol. 5
~Abe-kun's Got me Now!, Vol. 6
~Abe-kun's Got Me Now!, Vol. 7
~Abe-kun's Got Me Now!, Vol. 8
~Abe-kun's Got Me Now Vol. 9
~The Way of the Househusband, Vol. 8
~Maison Ikkoku Collector's Edition, Vol. 7
~Maison Ikkoku Collector's Edition, Vol. 8
DNFed:
None
Currently Reading:
~The Starless Crown
QOTW:
I have not read Mein Kampf, and I really have no interest in reading it.
I’m sure my opinion would change depending on the person I saw reading it, but most of the people I know who have taken the time to read it were either history majors in college (and had to read it for an assignment), or just have an interest in history.
Happy Thursday!One of our local libraries hosted a free comic-con this last weekend -- the Boise Comic Arts Festival. There were panels discussing comics and meeting with graphic novel creators, costume contests, vendors of all kinds, game tournaments, and more. And... it was held at our local zoo. I've NEVER heard of a convention being held at a zoo before, but it was actually a really fun experience.
I dragged my dad along with me to the con, and I think he bought more comics than I did. XD He was also bummed to realize the old Iron-Man comics he collected as a kid (and has since lost) would probably be worth a good deal of money today if he'd hung onto them...
Books read this week:
Starve Acre -- creepy folk-horror-esque read. It felt a little unfinished to me, but left an eerie shiver up my spine, so I suppose it was effective, heh…
Across the Desert -- I expected an adventure-survival story… I got an adventure-survival story with a side of emotional gut-punch, seeing as it deals with prescription opioid addiction as well. But it was GOOD.
Suckers -- I was expecting a vampire book, and it KINDA is… but it’s more of an “alien parasite makes people want blood” book. Well-written, though the ending feels rather abrupt and the author REALLY likes the F word. (I have nothing against profanity, but this book would give “The Big Lebowski” a run for its money…)
The Hen Who Dreamed She Could Fly -- short and sad but beautiful Korean novella about a hen who raises a baby duck. Has been described as a Korean Charlotte’s Web, and that seems like an apt comparison…
DNF:
Pirate Curse -- I would have kept reading this one despite the rather bland writing, but I draw the line when a character thinks it’s acceptable to (view spoiler) just because she was mean to them. I guess (view spoiler) are funny if you’re the protagonist… not to me though. Pass.
Currently Reading:
Book Scavenger
Galax-Arena
The Keeper of the Bees
The Dragon with a Chocolate Heart
QOTW:
I'm going to be perfectly honest -- I'd probably judge someone more for reading a book by *cough* certain current political figures and spokespeople *cough* than Mein Kampf. Probably because enough people read Mein Kampf for educational purposes (or to say they did as some kind of personal milestone/bragging rights) that it's not so suspicious, whereas people who read more recently-published political books probably already espouse those beliefs. Just my thoughts.
And no, I wouldn't read it myself. Life's too short to read a work of bloated ego like that. (Also how the HECK does Adolf Hitler have over a thousand followers on Goodreads? Probably peanuts compared to other authors but still...)
K.L. wrote: "Happy Thursday, everyone!This was a pretty crazy week… I had an opportunity to do a little more house hunting over the weekend, and I actually found the one that’s going to be my new home! I put ..."
Congratulations! Good luck with the move! The great thing about moving is that it also gives you a chance to weed through your stuff and decide what you actually want to take to your new home. (I ended up getting rid of about 75% of my stuff when I moved last year, and I don't really miss most of it...)
Ashley Marie wrote: "Good morning! It's been fairly rainy here in NEOhio this week (and muggy, temps have mostly been in the 80F range again) but we're in for a cooldown coming into the weekend! I think the high for to..."Just wanted to say that "Never-Ending Story" is one of my all-time favorite books, and I hope you're enjoying it. Have you ever seen the movie?
Nadine in NY wrote: "Happy Thursday again!! Now it is officially autumn in the northern hemisphere (and wisteria season in the southern hemisphere!), and the beginning is the best part of autumn. Up here in New Yor..."It sounds lovely and autumnal up there. Here in Idaho it feels like Mother Nature has JUST gotten the hint that we're supposed to be switching seasons -- we were still getting temperatures over 100 Fahrenheit as recently as a week or so ago...
Katy wrote: "I'm reading The Last Mile. I'm about 30 pages to the end. They keep coming up with what I think are supposed to be gasp-worthy surprises and I'm like, yeah, I knew that 50 pages ago..."I've run into that with books before -- being able to predict certain twists way before they actually happen. (I predicted who would be the antagonist of Cemetery Boys by the halfway point of the novel...) But that doesn't mean the book can't still be enjoyable, like you said!
K.L. wrote: "Happy Thursday, everyone!This was a pretty crazy week… I had an opportunity to do a little more house hunting over the weekend, and I actually found the one that’s going to be my new home! I put ..."
Congratulations, KL! Finding a new home is so exciting :)
Kenya wrote: "Ashley Marie wrote: "Good morning! It's been fairly rainy here in NEOhio this week (and muggy, temps have mostly been in the 80F range again) but we're in for a cooldown coming into the weekend! I ..."Yes! The film is one of my husband's favorites from when he was a kid; I've seen it multiple times and love it.
The impetus for reading was that we saw a local theatrical production a few weeks ago (which was also lovely), but the show itself was based on the novel, with plenty of nods to the film as well, and Hubby realized he'd never read it. (Rather, I think he realized it was based on a book and wasn't just a film) but either way now we're reading it together :D
Mod
This was a pretty crazy week… I had an opportunity to do a little more house hunting over the weekend, and I actually found the one that’s going to be my new home! I put ..."
congratulations!!!! that's super exciting
Taking a few mental health days off from work, so I'm actually able to participate in this checkin on an actual Thursday for once! Went to see Anastasia the musical yesterday and tried a new food hall for lunch beforehand. It was a great day off. AND the best part is that this morning was 55 degrees and I AM ready for the cooler temps. My patio door is open and I'm loving this season.53/80 GoodReads Challenge
40/50 PopSugar Challenge
Finished:
None
Currently Reading:
1.) The Japanese Lover
2.) Lucy by the Sea
QoTW: Have you/would you read Mein Kampf? What would you think if you saw someone else reading it?
I have no desire to read it, and I would be hugely interested in why a person choose to pick this up to tackle, and would hope it was from a education perspective not for personal interest.
K.L. wrote: " I actually found the one that’s going to be my new home! I put in an offer the afternoon I saw it, and the seller accepted it within a couple of hours!"Congrats KL!!! How exciting for you to be in before the holidays!
own voice sci-fi/fantasyIron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao. YA fantasy. Really enjoyed it would probably read it with my book club at school.
no prompts
The Kite by N.R. Walker. Contemporary romantic suspense. Good. I enjoy a slow burn and I enjoy enemies to lovers but I needed a bit more of maybe I like him on part of one of the mains.
Hard Knox by Riley Hart. Contemporary romance. Enjoyable.
Bet You by Neve Wilder. Contemporary M/M romance. Enjoyable. Somewhat spicy. Probably my least favorite of the series so far, though.
The Changeup by Emily Childs. Contemporary romance. Low angst. Non-spicy. It was good but I was more interested in some of the tertiary characters.
Seven Days by Nichole Greene. Age gap contemporary romance. Novella. Too insta-lovey for me which is a result of the novella length but that's why novellas are probably not for me in the romance genre.
QOTW:
Honestly, I'd probably be somewhat judgey.
The weather in Ontario has been crazy. 12 one day and 22 a few days later. It's one of life's ironies that when it's 10 outside in the fall, I'm wearing two sweaters and so cold after summer, but when it's 10 outside in the spring, everyone is ready for short sleeved shirts.I did not finish a book this week. But I read a lot of The Gulag Archipelago 1918–1956 which is a hard read, The book is in 7 sections (of not the same length.)
I made it through:
I - The Prison Industry
II - Perpetual Motion
III - The Destructive Labour Camps (this was the longest section)
I am reading a tween book with a protagonist in grade 7 to balance it out.
ATY - 39/52
PS- 32/35
Series -12/13
Clearing my TBR list: 30/40
Currently reading:
The Gulag Archipelago 1918–1956 - 65% done
The First Rule of Punk - 80% done
QOTW:
I would never read it myself because there is too much that I want to read. One year, we discussion having a family book prompt for the month (culled from AYT and PS). One month was a banned book. My husband was going to read Mein Kampf. I had zero worries it would corrupt him. People have read "The Prince" without murdering people and "The Communist Manifesto" without becoming communists.
It would be a different story if someone claimed Mein Kampf was one of their favourite books.
Hi all! I got a kiddo home sick from school, again, and she's napping, so I thought I'd take the opportunity to check in before she needs me again. Other than that, things are going well here. Can't believe September is more than half over! I haven't finished anything, but I'm almost done with Me and Earl and the Dying Girl. It won't fit for any prompts I have open.
Read a little more in The Satanic Verses, but I'm suddenly not feeling it. It's not the book, it's me.
Also read some in Shark Dialogues, which I'm using for a Pacific Islander, but would work very well for a 2 languages book, too.
QOTW: I asked this because I'm personally torn about this one. I don't *want* to read it, but I want to see where this source of hatred springs from. I feel like I ought to read it, since this book is clearly still relevant in our times, unfortunately. I also feel like I see too many parallels to Hitler in the style of some of our (American) leaders, and I want to better understand why that appeals to people. (I read Hitler's Charisma: Leading Millions into the Abyss a couple of years ago, most of it was a slog, but the introduction and/or chapter 1 (I don't remember) was startling to compare to current politicians).
All that said, honestly, I would assume the worst if I saw someone else reading it. Unless I knew them personally. Otherwise, I would assume they were reading it for horrible inspiration. Probably the cynic in me! :)
K.L. wrote: "Happy Thursday, everyone!This was a pretty crazy week… I had an opportunity to do a little more house hunting over the weekend, and I actually found the one that’s going to be my new home! I put ..."
Congrats!! From your previous posts, it sounded like you had very definite ideas about what you wanted, so I'm glad you finally found it! Time is good, there will be a ton of paperwork etc to get through before move-in day. When we bought our house it was "One more thing...." about 12 times! lol
Kenya wrote: "Also how the HECK does Adolf Hitler have over a thousand followers on Goodreads?"Haha, this makes me laugh. Are they expecting a new release sometime soon????
Side question, does anyone know where the money goes if people buy copies of Mein Kampf? I would hope to some sort of Holocaust memorial fund or something, but I don't know. Maybe I'll look it up later.
Jennifer W wrote: "QOTW: I asked this because I'm personally torn about this one. I don't *want* to read it, but I want to see where this source of hatred springs from. I feel like I ought to read it, since this book is clearly still relevant in our times, unfortunately. I also feel like I see too many parallels to Hitler in the style of some of our (American) leaders, and I want to better understand why that appeals to people. (I read Hitler's Charisma: Leading Millions into the Abyss a couple of years ago, most of it was a slog, but the introduction and/or chapter 1 (I don't remember) was startling to compare to current politicians)."I would probably recommend something like Shirer's The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich: A History of Nazi Germany, as he references Mein Kampf quite a bit from what I recall, without the reader having to slog through Hitler waxing philosophical about various topics. Rise and Fall is a massive book and I've only skimmed it; I think I'd enjoy it considerably if I didn't already feel so mentally overloaded by WWII history.
Hello! The weather turned yesterday here, and my husband is elated. Tuesday was so humid and obnoxious, and right now it's in the 40s. We had a frost advisory in the northern parts of the state overnight. For the prompt of book set in your favorite season, I kept picking books set right now. Yay Fall!Finished This Week:
The Last Graduate by Naomi Novik. Reread to prep for the new release, which was not on the 20th like I thought, but on the 27th. Still love this book, but not quite as much as the first. Can't wait!
Paladin's Strength by T. Kingfisher. Next book in the Saint of Steel series and the overall World of the White Rat. This one had larger stakes than the last, but it was good to see a paladin matched up with someone who wasn't only not afraid of him, but actually more powerful. I was surprised this wrapped up the mystery from the last book, so I'm curious where book 3 goes. I'm especially curious about how they'll use the new city that's been introduced. I half expected Istvhan and Clara to topple the city's government in this book, but that would have been too much. Using for #48, Two POVs.
Chirp by Kate Messner. Middle grade mystery where a girl tries to find out who's sabotaging her grandmother's cricket farm, as well as developing a business plan to grow said farm. There's even a junior Shark Tank-esque competition she participates in. There's also a story arc about being a woman in today's world and how you deal with unwanted advances, which I thought was covered very well for middle grade, especially the one adult who made sure that she was safe now, and that the bad things were no longer happening. Using for #7, Onomatopoeia in Title.
PS: 42/50 RH: 12/24 ATY: 48/52 GR 141/100
Currently Reading:
Midnight at the Pera Palace: The Birth of Modern Istanbul by Charles King. I'm really enjoying this history off Istanbul. I'm in the 1930s now. The Allies occupying the city have left, the sultan fled with them, and a lot of Greeks have been kicked out. The new government is trying to make everything modern, but especially make everyone Turkish. About halfway through.
The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak. Book is due back to the library tomorrow with a long wait list, but I'm only in chapter two. This chapter is told from the POV of a fig tree, which may be why I'm having difficulty staying engaged. Half inclined to just drop it, but I need it for Read Harder's Women's Prize prompt. We'll see if I continue.
Octavia's Brood: Science Fiction Stories from Social Justice Movements by Adrienne Maree Brown. An anthology featuring diverse voices for Read Harder #5, which is also suffering because I keep reading other things. I've enjoyed the stories I've read so far, and just need to keep at it.
QotW: Have you/would you read Mein Kampf? What would you think if you saw someone else reading it?
I have not. I studied the German language for six years, I have a degree in history, and I love learning about World War II. But I've never wanted to read it. It looks like my library has it in the original German, which sounds like an interesting undertaking. I still think it's better for my mental health to not.
If I saw someone else was reading it, I would assume they're a scholar studying it. The real test would be to see how they discuss it.
Finished:Dune: The Lady of Caladan by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson (3/5, could be 4 on reread if third in trilogy sticks the landing)
In just about one year, I have read or reread every Dune novel and short story collection. It's a fun universe to play in, but I am also happy to take a short break from it while waiting for The Heir of Caladan to be published.
The most pleasant surprise of a new character in The Lady of Caladan is Viscount Tull. He shows more generosity and compassion than most of the nobles in the Dune universe.
Currently Reading:
The Haunting of Tram Car 015 by P. Djèlí Clark (for book club, halfway through)
The Candymakers by Wendy Mass (reread)
For those who read and liked Bob for the palindromic prompt, you should definitely read The Candymakers and its sequel. This is a masterpiece of literary structure and has appealing protagonists.
Dujonian's Hoard by Michael Jan Friedman (reread)
Captain Picard tells a tall tale featuring Worf and himself on a dangerous undercover mission. For the most part, this is a highly enjoyable romp, although it does have bad people doing bad things, so use your best judgment if this one is for you or not.
Question of the Week:
I do not want to read Mein Kampf, solely because I have not heard anyone say that it is well-written. I do understand why some may find it interesting, though. To go into fictional examples, if Emperor Palpatine or Baron Harkonnen had written a book, I would totally want to read it.
Britany wrote: "Taking a few mental health days off from work, so I'm actually able to participate in this checkin on an actual Thursday for once! Went to see Anastasia the musical yesterday and tried a new food h..."Good for you! People don't pay enough attention to their mental health.
Chandie wrote: "own voice sci-fi/fantasyIron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao. YA fantasy. Really enjoyed it would probably read it with my book club at school.
no prompts
The Kite by N.R. Walker. Contemporary romantic..."
Iron Widow is fantastic! I'm glad you liked it.
Dubhease wrote: "The weather in Ontario has been crazy. 12 one day and 22 a few days later. It's one of life's ironies that when it's 10 outside in the fall, I'm wearing two sweaters and so cold after summer, but w..."That's one of life's ironies, and it's very true here. In spring everyone's wearing shorts once it gets above freezing, but once it dips below 70 (Fahrenheit) in the fall it's sweater weather, haha...
Jennifer W wrote: "Hi all! I got a kiddo home sick from school, again, and she's napping, so I thought I'd take the opportunity to check in before she needs me again. Other than that, things are going well here. Can'..."I hope your kiddo feels better soon!
Melissa wrote: "Hello! The weather turned yesterday here, and my husband is elated. Tuesday was so humid and obnoxious, and right now it's in the 40s. We had a frost advisory in the northern parts of the state ove..."I love Kingfisher, but I haven't read her Saints of Steel series. Are they good?
Brandon wrote: "Finished:Dune: The Lady of Caladan by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson (3/5, could be 4 on reread if third in trilogy sticks the landing)
In just abo..."
I read the first Dune book and liked the worldbuilding... not so much the writing. Is the series worth sticking through?
Hello All, I finished 3 books for the week.1. The Cartographers. 5 stars. Magical Realism
2. The Unsinkable Greta James. 5 stars. Contemporary Romance.
3. Cemetery Boys. 5 stars. I read it for banned book week. Lgbt, Fantasy, YA.
QOTW: No I never read Mein Kampf. I would judge.
48/50Read: There Is No Good Card for This: What To Say and Do When Life Is Scary, Awful, and Unfair to People You Love Pretty straight-forward, but still good advice
The Night Circus I read this one for prompt set in Victorian Era. It was enjoyable. I appreciated having an option that wasn't WRITTEN in the Victorian Era.
My Grandmother's Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Mending of Our Bodies and Hearts I don't know to what extent I trust this author. Overall, it seemed like a good project. But there were a few bits that were intentionally traumatizing which didn't seem like a good way to go about doing htings.
Started: The Prince of the Skies I love anything to do with the Little Prince and am so far enjoying this one!
Qotw: I did start to read Mein Kampf once, but didn't get very far in it. To the question, if you could talk to any historical figure, who would it be, my answer used to be, Hitler. I wanted to try to understand him, how he thought, and how he had such a strong influence on so many other people. Now I don't care. There are sociopaths in the world and I don't need to understand them. I need to avoid them. So, my past self would have been interested in reading Mein Kampf. My current self is not. Interesting question!
Kenya wrote: "Just wanted to say that "Never-Ending Story" is one of my all-time favorite books, and I hope you're enjoying it. Have you ever seen the movie?..."The author, Michael Ende, has also written a more obscure book called Momo that is amazing as well. You should check it out! It's about a little girl and her quest with time.
Britany wrote: " Went to see Anastasia the musical yesterday and tried a new food h..."Was it any good? We have season tickets to musicals, but weren't able to see Anastasia because Covid cases were so high at the time...
Doni wrote: "Britany wrote: " Went to see Anastasia the musical yesterday and tried a new food h..."Was it any good? We have season tickets to musicals, but weren't able to see Anastasia because Covid cases w..."
I saw it at the start of September. It was a good story and the songs were well done. I was really impressed with the costuming, which is something I rarely say for a play or musical. The Russian court gowns, and two scene of 1920s dresses were stunning.
Hi all, Missed last week again, it was my birthday weekend and it was busy at work, getting ready for having my first actual party in several years and such. ANd the weather was perfect for it! We even kinda had a lawn! It was sod that wasn't even close to grown in, and there's still mud patches everywhere due to we're going to pour a new patio, hopefully before end of year, but hey better than the entire yard being a mud pit.
Michigan flipped a switch for first day of fall though. Yesterday was 86, today is 57. i don't like these 30 degree switches, they're hard on my body! feeling sluggish today. I'm just thankful that i didn't get a migraine, i guess the magnesium is really helping!
I guess i have been so busy I haven't really read much:
A Desolation Called Peace - this was a good follow up, i feel like there's room for another in the series although I am not positive. Really fascinating!
Woman, Eating - i wanted to like this, but it was just kind of weird. It meandered all over, and then it felt like it ended abruptly and left a lot of stuff hanging.
currently reading:
Terminal Peace - audio book - Really liking this. It's funny how sometimes the 'silly' books can really do the most interesting and surprising stuff in a genre. I started the series on a recommendation from a friend, expected pure fluff. But really this series has some really interesting alien races, complex interactions between species, and deals with really complex subject matters while still being light and fun at times. Also how dare it make me get teary eyed while out on a walk!
Nona the Ninth - only about 100 pages in, kind of confused because it's been a while since Harrow and Gideon but i read a wiki to get a little refresher. Once the series is done i'll have to just do a whole series re-read all back to back. It feels similar to Harrow where i'm kind of feeling the edges as to what is going on and am waiting for the confirmation as to "yes, this is what is happening". and probably additional "WAIT WHAAAAT?"
QOTW:
I have zero desire to read it myself. I guess like others it'd depend on context. If it was at a library or some such I'd assume it was a student reading for class or someone doing research. I'd be a little more weirded out of someone casually reading it on like...a park bench. That feels more "Hey I am doing this for attention" which feels more suspect, and less like research, or curiosity, to be informed, interest in history etc. Maybe I'm reading too much into it with my social anxiety. I know if I HAD to read it for a class or something, I'd probably be making sure I had a book cover, or get a kindle version or never read it outside my house, never leave it out when guests were over, just to make sure no one thought I was reading it in an approving fashion as opposed to research/because i had to. So that could just be a me problem, and not a thing others would consider.
Hello, we're now officially into fall so my personal calendar aligns with the world at large once more. LOLI'm 38/50 for the challenge, but struggling to fill a few of the remaining categories.
Conversations with Friends by Sally Rooney - I really did not like this book, mostly because of the writing style. I hate when authors refuse to use quotation marks for conversations, I was confused for most of the book who was speaking. Plus I really didn't like any of the characters. Used for the prompt "a book becoming a TV series or movie in 2022."
At the Quiet Edge by Victoria Helen Stone - really good thriller, used for the 50 states challenge (set in Kansas).
Went back and fit one of last week's books into a category - found a blurb from Stephen King on the Amazon page for You by Caroline Kepnes
QOTW: No, I don't plan to read it, but I do have The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich in my Kindle library.
Kenya wrote: I read the first Dune book and liked the worldbuilding... not so much the writing. Is the series worth sticking through?It depends what bothered you about the writing of the book. Frank Herbert's books tended to be dense and more musing/philosophical in their approach. The Brian/Kevin books are more straightforward action/politics/character books. My best advice is to read the free online sample for Dune Messiah (the next Frank book after Dune) and House Atreides (the first of a prequel trilogy that explores the background of Leto and his retinue) and see if either grabs you.
K.L. wrote: "I had an opportunity to do a little more house hunting over the weekend, and I actually found the one that’s going to be my new home! I put in an offer the afternoon I saw it, and the seller accepted it within a couple of hours! "Congratulations! We bought a new home in July, and I know how stressful - and exhilirating - the entire process can be.
K.L. wrote: "Happy Thursday, everyone!This was a pretty crazy week… I had an opportunity to do a little more house hunting over the weekend, and I actually found the one that’s going to be my new home! I put ..."
Congratulations!!
I love this weather! We've been opening up the house during the day, and the breeze is gloriously cool! It even gets a little chilly sometimes. I love it! My grandson was fascinated by the bright red leaves that were littering our front yard this morning.Challenge Progress: 45/50 I'm currently reading a book about a band or musical group, but I still need to read a book about witches, a book set during a holiday, a book with the name of a board game in the title, and a book featuring a party. I also haven't fulfilled a prompt from 2015. I'll have to check the list again... Maybe I've already read something that would count.
Completed:
Still Just a Geek: An Annotated Memoir: Wil Wheaton's updated memoir... 24 hour audiobook. Wow. ★★★★
Good Girl, Bad Blood: I'm really enjoying this series. I'm sure I'll pick up the third volume soon! ★★★★
Currently Reading:
The Final Revival of Opal & Nev (PS 21: A book about a band or musical group)
The Dawn of Everything: A New History of Humanity (Book Club selection)
Carrie Soto Is Back
I'm Glad My Mom Died
Misrule
Tell Me Lies
The Book Eaters
QOTW: I really have no desire to read it myself, but I also don't find it terribly problematic if someone else wants to read it - unless it's their favorite book!
Mornings are cold, but soooo beautiful! I go to work about 15 minutes after sunrise. The world is so beautiful: the first rays of sunshine, fog rising from the river, leaves turning into orange, red and yellow and it smells so good outside. Today, it was very cold when I left for work (needed shawl and gloves) and when I went home I didn’t even need my jacket… O, and all week I feel like I’m going to have a cold. I hope it’s just the weather changing.PS: 18/40
Total 2022: 46
Finished
Roller-Coaster: Europe, 1950-2017 by Ian Kershaw ⭐⭐
PS #30: a book with a name of board game in the title (Roller-Coaster)
Mwahhh… there’s so much to tell about this period in history. So the author wanted to tell everything. I wish he should have chosen some themes and dig in. Now it’s just a summary of history.
The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane by Lisa See ⭐⭐
Not for PS
Too much tea details, took me too long to get into the story, no, this was not my cup of tea.
Currently reading
Starting In the Country of Others by Leïla Slimani
QOTW
I haven’t read it. And I wouldn’t. I love history, love reading about WW2, but I just never felt like ‘I want to read Mein Kampf’.
I think it would be strange to see someone reading it. I guess it would be educational, but still. If I would read it, I would read it at home only. Or I would read it as an ebook. Or wrap it in paper, so no one would see it.
Kenya wrote: "I love Kingfisher, but I haven't read her Saints of Steel series. Are they good?"I've enjoyed them. The only other Kingfisher I've read outside of this world is A Wizard’s Guide to Defensive Baking, which I don't believe is typical for her. The Saint of Steel books (and the whole World of the White Rat series) have all been romances (mostly M/F, but the latest is M/M). The Saint died, and his remaining paladins are struggling to exist without him. Paladin's Grace opens with the day the god died, and then picks up a few years later with the paladins who are left. They've become their own family, recognizing how each is broken and working together to make sure everyone can continue on.
They're set in the same world as Clockwork Boys / The Wonder Engine and Swordheart. Clockwork Boys & Wonder Engine are a duology setting up the world, but the events of that duology are only vaguely referenced in later books, and the people not at all. The side characters in Swordheart, however, are very prominent in the Saint of Steel series. Clockwork Boys & Wonder Engine are more an adventure saga, where a band of misfits have to stop a war against an unkillable foe. Swordheart is a cozy fantasy romance, where the plot isn't about Big Topics. The Saint books get back into the heavier topics. I've enjoyed all of them and would definitely recommend the full series.
You could probably start with Paladin's Grace and not read any of the prior books and still understand everything that happens. But I think I enjoyed it more because I'd already met Zale in Swordheart and knew something of the Hanged Maiden cult.
It's supposed to be 60F tomorrow here in NYC! I can't wait!!!!!!It's a one-off - temps and humidity move back up the next day, but it finally signals the end of summer and beginning of my favorite 2 seasons.
I'm still at 44/50 for PS but I've now caught up on a lot of other big reads I had going, and Feminerdy Book Club is discussing a book I read a couple years ago in October, and probably a book I read in recently in November, so I have some room in my reading schedule to knock off the final 6!
Finished:
Faithful by Alice Hoffman - this one snuck up on me, not showing its true self until Chapter 3 and nearly being put aside in first couple of chapters. I'm finding I really like the non-witchy books written by Hoffman a lot, routinely giving them 4 stars. This one would work for Found Family.
Nearly Departed in Deadwood - I have a road trip coming up to SD and Mt. Rushmore, Deadwood, etc. so when I spotted this cozy mystery series I had to start it. Enjoyed it a lot - it's fun, and while starting off with a few ghosts, more paranormal appears as the series progresses, or so it seems.
A Purrfect Romance - J.M. Bronston - I needed a light contemporary romance to read in a day - too many serious or dark reads lately. This was in my ebook TBR. Delightful -- set in NYC and in a coop apartment building - which of course suited this general counsel to coop apartment buildings just fine (even though author got some of the legalities wrong). There's a whole inheritance/missing heir vibe, naughty kittens... it was just purrrfect!
How Lucky - Edgar nominee in 2022 -- if you still need a mobility aid book, this is the one. Daniel, confined to a wheelchair due to SMA, a genetic degenerative disease, witnesses a kidnapping and what follows is the story of his involvement in the crime. That's the plot -- and while it's a weak crime fiction plot in many ways (author is a sports journalist not a crime fiction writer) -- the story of Daniel and how he embraces life with joy is the true reason to read this. It's glorious.
Currently reading:
The 7½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle - for #booktok prompt - and I am loving its inventiveness.
Leavin' Trunk Blues
QOTW:
I haven't read Mein Kampf but I don't believe I see anything inherently wrong about reading it. There are certainly contexts where reading it would be appropriate and even necessary. How would I judge someone who is reading it? I'd probably find it curious and look at the person for clues as to why -- someone of an age to be reading it for school (not a problem), someone sporting swastika tattoos (avoid - not good), someone I know who reads a lot of political, philosophical and historical books ( not a surprise), or someone who just seems to be making sure everyone sees what he/she is reading (Nadine's trying too hard).
I ask the same questions when I see anyone reading extreme political books or even a book like Trump: The Art of the Deal or How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie.
Eye rolling is definitely involved.
Kenya wrote: "Congratulations! Good luck with the move! The great thing about moving is that it also gives you a chance to weed through your stuff and decide what you actually want to take to your new home. (I ended up getting rid of about 75% of my stuff when I moved last year, and I don't really miss most of it...)"Thanks, Kenya! I've been trying to go through things a little bit at a time, and I've managed to get rid of a decent amount of stuff so far, but there's a lot left to go. It's amazing how much stuff I managed to pack into my current home!
Ashley Marie wrote: "Congratulations, KL! Finding a new home is so exciting :)"Thanks, Ashley Marie! I'm really excited about my new place!
Nadine in NY wrote: "congratulations!!!! that's super exciting"Thanks, Nadine!
Britany wrote: "Congrats KL!!! How exciting for you to be in before the holidays!."Thanks, Britany! I decided not to host any of our holiday celebrations this year, since I wasn't sure when I would be moving, but I am so relieved that I'll have a chance to get settled in before Thanksgiving and Christmas. I also found out this afternoon that I might even be able to move in before Halloween, which would be awesome!
Jennifer W wrote: "Congrats!! From your previous posts, it sounded like you had very definite ideas about what you wanted, so I'm glad you finally found it! Time is good, there will be a ton of paperwork etc to get through before move-in day. When we bought our house it was "One more thing...." about 12 times! lol."Thanks, Jennifer! I really like the house that I'm buying, and I think it's going to be a great fit for me! I'm not looking forward to all of the paperwork, but I'm currently in "hurry up and wait" mode until we get closer to the closing date.
Laura wrote: "Congratulations! We bought a new home in July, and I know how stressful - and exhilirating - the entire process can be."Thanks, Laura! No kidding! I keep bouncing back and forth between excitement and severe anxiety. One minute I'll be going "This is so awesome!" and the next minute it's like "What were you thinking!?" ^_^
Harmke wrote: "Congratulations!!"Thanks, Harmke!
Mod
LOL this really made me laugh because at first i saw it as "Nadine is trying too hard" and I thought "ahhhh! you're onto me!!"
Ultimate Popsugar Reading Challenge
Books mentioned in this topic
Cleopatra: A Life (other topics)Death Comes to Pemberley (other topics)
Miss Bianca in the Orient (other topics)
The Perfectionist (other topics)
Silent Voices (other topics)
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Authors mentioned in this topic
P.D. James (other topics)Jaquira Díaz (other topics)
Stacy Schiff (other topics)
Paul Gallico (other topics)
Ann Cleeves (other topics)
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Admin stuff
All of our monthly group reads have been chosen. September's group read is Cemetery Boys, discussion is here:
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
We have NO discussion leaders for Oct, Nov, or Dec. As always, just let us know if you're interested. (I'm noticing a distinct lack of interest!)
This week I finished 3 books, ONE for this Challenge, so I am now 42/50.
Entangled Life: How Fungi Make Our Worlds, Change Our Minds & Shape Our Futures by Merlin Sheldrake - this was one of the books on my must-read personal challenge. I really enjoyed it!
The Hurting Kind: Poems by Ada Limon - five stars! My favorite living poet.
The Devil Takes You Home by Gabino Iglesias- eh, this was okay. There were a few moments of brilliance, but mostly it was dull. Not for the challenge, but it would work for published in 2022, Latino author, social horror (maybe?), and two languages. And ... now that I look at what I just typed, I realize it works for "A book whose title begins with the last letter of your previous read" for me, using the "D" in "Hurting KinD" and "the Devil Takes You Home"! So that's it, I have finally found a book for this category!!! Hooray me!! I completed a challenge category!! Phew! that one was a real albatross for me.
Question of the Week
Jennifer asked this one a few months ago:
Have you/would you read Mein Kampf? What would you think if you saw someone else reading it?
I remember seeing this book on my library shelves when I was young - they had two copies, and it was massive! Back in the 70s, it was history, but not ancient history. I was mildly curious about it, but not so curious that I was willing to wade through all those pages. So, no, I've never read it.
I don't know what I would think if I saw someone else reading it, it probably depends on who the reader is. My reaction could range from "eh, whatever" to "but why?" to "oh! is it interesting?" to "well aren't you a try-hard" to "whoa I will steer clear of YOU."
Like, I feel like I know Jennifer fairly well just through GR, so if I saw Jennifer reading it, I'd think "oh! is it interesting?" But my BIL is always trying to impress people, so if I saw him reading it (and I never would, he is not a reader) I'd think "well aren't you a try-hard?"