Wanderlust Challenges discussion

Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
3 Months from Start



Arbor Day is celebrated every year on the last Friday of April in the US. Often partnering with the Arbor Day Foundation, cities and communities work together to plant millions of new trees to help our climate and bring new resources to the earth. Many other countries have similar Arbor Day holidays with the same mission.

In honor of Arbor Day, we will be visiting some of the world's most interesting trees and forests, learning a lesson from them: that we, too, can stand tall and keep growing.

Complete 9 tasks.

Challenge Rules: All forms of books are accepted as long as they are 100 pages or more. When posting updates of completed books, please include a link to the title and author’s name, along with the date you finished reading the book. Please post cover if it is task appropriate. When you have completed the challenge, please copy and paste your entire challenge and re-post in a new message, letting us know it is completed.

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1. Methuselah

Standing against time, this ancient bristlecone pine located within California’s Inyo National Forest, is known as Methuselah because it is the oldest non-clonal tree in the world. This gnarled tree has stood in this hostile environment, that includes high altitude and extreme temperatures, for nearly 5,000 years (4,849 years, to be exact). Methuselah is but one of many ancient bristlecone pines growing in the mountains here. In fact, in 2012 scientists tested another one in the area that may be even older!

*Read one of the oldest books on your TBR (share when you added it) OR read a book originally published in 2012 (share publication date).

2. Old Tjikko

Old Tjikko is a Norway spruce found, perhaps confusingly, in Sweden in 2004. It stands 5 meters (16 ft) tall and is located on Fulufjället Mountain in the Dalarna Province. What makes this trees so extraordinary is its root system which has been growing for 9,550 years. The visible part of the tree is far younger, only a couple centuries old. Unlike Methuselah, the Norway spruce has the ability to clone itself - meaning that after one stem dies, another one springs from the same root system. Leif Kullman, the researcher and scientist who found it, attributed the "new" growth to global warming and gave the tree its nickname "Old Tjikko" after his late dog.

*Read a book from a favorite series you have already started OR read a book set in Scandanavia (tell us where).

3. Pando

Speaking of old root systems, a grove of quaking aspens in the US state of Utah is considered one of the world biggest living organisms. The 107 acres of aspens are known as the Trembling Giant, or Pando (which means "I Spread" in Latin). The grove (or more specifically its roots) are thought to date to the end of the last Ice Age - about 11,700 years ago. Because each of the 47,000 trees are genetically identical and share a single root system, researchers consider them a single organism rather than separate trees.

*Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO (ignore A, An or The) OR read a book set in the USA (tell us where).

4. Hibakujumoku

Ginkgo biloba trees are known for their ability to survive all manner of natural disasters. But no one could have guessed the slender trees with fan-shaped leaves would endure one of the darkest moments in modern human history: the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945. The devastation left 5 square miles of destruction, killing off most of the vegetation within the area. But the following spring these singed, barkless ginkgo trees, once again bloomed, inspiring hope among survivors in the difficult days ahead. The 170 trees, called hibakujumoku or “survivor trees,” are labeled with plaques that share their story and stand as reminders of resiliency, reconciliation, and peace.

*Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the the plot line (tell us how) OR read a book tagged WAR on its GR Homepage.

5. Cedars of God

The Cedars of God is a small forest of about 400 Lebanon Cedar trees in the mountains of northern Lebanon. They are among the last survivors of the extensive forests of the Cedars of Lebanon that thrived here in ancient times. The Cedars of Lebanon are mentioned in the Bible over 70 times and King Solomon used the famous trees in the construction of the First Temple in Jerusalem. But after centuries of persistent deforestation, the extent of these forests has been markedly reduced to this last important grove. In 1985, the "Committee of the Friends of the Cedar Forest" initiated a reforestation program and planted 200,000 new cedars trees. In 1998, The Forests of the Cedars of God were added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites, and are now rigorously protected.

*Read a book over 400 pages long (share page count) OR read a book set in Ancient Times (tell us when).

6. Socotra Dragon Tree

The Socotra Dragon Tree, or Dragon Blood Tree, is an endemic tree, meaning that this particular species can only be found in one place - on the island of Socotra, off the coast of Yemen. Visually the tree is very unique with its umbrella shape which allows the tree to collect and absorb mist that passes over the island. What makes it even more interesting is the red resin inside of the tree’s trunk. Local legend says that the first Dragon Blood Tree was created from the blood of an injured dragon. The resin has been harvested for hundreds of years for medicine, varnishes, and dyes. Only experienced harvesters are allowed to extract the resin from the tree, as it puts the tree at jeopardy if it is not done correctly. Other species of Dragon tree can be found individually in other locations, but this island is home to the last remaining Dragon Tree Forest.

*Read a book with a red cover (post cover) OR read a book set on an island (tell us where).

7. Strangler Fig

This photo really makes you realize the strength of a tree! This is Ta Prohm Temple, a Buddhist monastery in Cambodia built in 1186 as part of Angkor Wat. As you can see, this fig tree has taken over the structure, virtually "strangling" it. The buildings were constructed without the use of mortar which allowed the trees to establish roots among the dislodged stones when the buildings were abandoned by humans. It is intriguing to observe the interdependence between the trees and structures, each now relying on the other for survival. The temple has been intentionally preserved in its "untouched state" to allow visitors to witness this amazing merging of nature and man.

*Read a book with an MC who is described as strong (tell us why) OR read a book set in Asia (tell us where).

8. The Major Oak

Sherwood Forest of Nottinghamshire, England, was made famous by the legend of Robin Hood. Located in the heart of the forest is a huge oak tree that, according to local folklore, provided shelter and a place to sleep for this band of outlaws. The famous tree is between 800 to a 1000 years old, weighs about 23 tons, has a girth of 33 feet, with branches that spread up to 92 feet. It was christened Major Oak after Major Hayman Rooke, a noted antiquarian, included the tree in a popular book about the ancient oaks of Sherwood Forest, published in 1790.

*Read a book with a single tree featured in the story or on cover (post cover) OR read a book set in the UK (tell us where).

9. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

While we could go on about the ethereal glow and seemingly endless heights of this bamboo grove on the outskirts of Kyoto, Japan, the pleasures here extend beyond the visual realm. If you close your eyes, tune out the nearby tourists, and listen to the wind, the wood creaking, and leaves rustling, you'll experience the true beauty of the destination. In 1996, the local Ministry of the Environment even included Arashiyama as one of the country's top 100 Soundscapes of Japan, an initiative to combat noise pollution and encourage people to take in the sounds of the natural world. When was the last time you walked in a forest and was bathed by the sound of the trees?

*Read a book that had a calming influence on you (tell us why) OR read a book tagged NATURE on its GR Homepage.

Participants

Barb ~ Completed
Bev(baglady) ~ Completed
Catsalive ~ Completed
Ed ~ Completed
Frankie ~ Completed
Jan ~ Completed
Jonquil ~ Completed
Karen ♐
Kim ~ Completed
Meg ~ Completed
Olivermagnus ~ Completed
Patrizia ~ Completed
Ruth ~ Completed
Tari
Teri-k ~ Completed
Trish ~ Completed

My Spot

Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
April 1, 2024 - June 30, 2024
9/9

1. Methuselah
*Read a book originally published in 2012 (Aug 07, 2012). You Don't Want To Know | Lisa Jackson 6/2/24*


2. Old Tjikko
*Read a book from a favorite series you have already started. A Fatal Thaw | Dana Stabenow 4/18/24****


3. Pando
*Read a book set in the USA (Blue Lake, Indiana). A Dark and Stormy Murder | Julia Buckley 5/8/23***


4. Hibakujumoku
*Read a book tagged WAR on its GR Homepage. The Key to Rebecca | Ken Follett 5/2/24***


5. Cedars of God
*Read a book over 400 pages long (480 Pages). The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo | Stieg Larsson 5/29/24****


6. Socotra Dragon Tree
*Read a book set on an island (Wenniway Island, Michigan). My Kind of You | Tracy Brogan 5/22/24****


7. Strangler Fig
*Read a book with an MC who is described as strong (everyone sees the "colonel" as a strong, steady man who can handle anything). Three Silent Things | Margaret Mayhew 6/5/24****


8. The Major Oak
*Read a book set in the UK (London). The Silent Patient | Alex Michaelides 4/10/24***


9. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
*Read a book that had a calming influence on you (this author's writing and the remote island setting was very calming reading for me - it also dealt with the saving of wildlife so it could have fit the NATURE tag too) . Stormy Petrel | Mary Stewart 5/6/24****


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Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
April 1, 2024 - June 30, 2024

9/9 Completed. Finished

1. Methuselah
*Read a book originally published in 2012 (share publication date).
(7/03/12)
Criminal-Karin Slaughter 5/19/24

2. Old Tjikko
*Read a book from a favorite series you have already started
(Emma Griffin FBI Mystery Series)
The Girl and the Unexpected Gifts-A.J. Rivers 4/11/24

3. Pando
*Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO (ignore A, An or The)
Among the Echoes-Aly Martinez 4/09/24

4. Hibakujumoku
*Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the the plot line (tell us how)
(MCs work to rebuild their lives and end a family feud)
One Night-Lena Hendrix 4/12/24

5. Cedars of God
*Read a book over 400 pages long (share page count)
(448)
The Things We Leave Unfinished-Rebecca Yarros 4/17/24

6. Socotra Dragon Tree
*Read a book with a red cover (post cover)
A Very Bossy Christmas: Special Edition-Kayley Loring 4/06/24


7. Strangler Fig
*Read a book with an MC who is described as strong (tell us why).
(MC lost his parents as a teenager and had to raise his brother and then lost his brother and had to raise his nephew)
Between Hello and Goodbye-Emma Scott 4/04/24

8. The Major Oak
*Read a book with a single tree featured in the story or on cover (post cover)
Parentmoon-L.B. Dunbar 4/23/24


9. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
*Read a book that had a calming influence on you (tell us why).
(lighthearted read with HEA)
Falling-Willow Aster 5/18/24
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Welcome Frankie!

Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
April 1, 2024 - June 30, 2024

9/9

1. Methuselah
*Read one of the oldest books on your TBR (share when you added it) OR read a book originally published in 2012 (share publication date).
6 March 2012- Fire Engine Dead by Sheila Connolly 13 May; 5☆


2. Old Tjikko
*Read a book from a favorite series you have already started OR read a book set in Scandanavia (tell us where).
Cross My Heart by D.K. Hood 2 April; 5☆


3. Pando
*Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO (ignore A, An or The) OR read a book set in the USA (tell us where).
Picnic in Someday Valley by Jodi Thomas 20 April; 4☆


4. Hibakujumoku
*Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the the plot line (tell us how) OR read a book tagged WAR on its GR Homepage.
two of the main characters must make peace with their past and one reconciles with a member of her family- The Family You Make by Jill Shalvis 20 May; 4 1/2☆


5. Cedars of God
*Read a book over 400 pages long (share page count) OR read a book set in Ancient Times (tell us when).
439 pages- Tre giorni per morire (=Fractured) by Karin Slaughter 18 April; 4☆


6. Socotra Dragon Tree
*Read a book with a red cover (post cover) OR read a book set on an island (tell us where).
Aquidneck Island (book set in Newport)- Murder at Kingscote by Alyssa Maxwell 10 April; 5☆


7. Strangler Fig
*Read a book with an MC who is described as strong (tell us why) OR read a book set in Asia (tell us where).
the female MC is Amish, but she stands up to her overly strict parents and themale MC thinks she is strong- Amish Fugitive by Shelley Shepard Gray 15 April; 4☆


8. The Major Oak
*Read a book with a single tree featured in the story or on cover (post cover) OR read a book set in the UK (tell us where).
Devon coast- A Deadly Walk in Devon by Nicholas George 23 April; 4☆


9. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
*Read a book that had a calming influence on you (tell us why) OR read a book tagged NATURE on its GR Homepage.
Forgotten Trail by Claire Kells 24 May; 5☆

Patrizia wrote: "my spot"


You got it Patrizia!

Lovely, lovely trees 🌳

Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
April 1, 2024 - June 30, 2024
9/9

1. Methuselah
*Read one of the oldest books on your TBR (share when you added it) - about 15 years ago
Imitation in Death by J.D. Robb 9/4 3.5★

2. Old Tjikko
*Read a book from a favorite series you have already started
Away with the Fairies by Kerry Greenwood 3/4 5★

3. Pando
*Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO
Dear Banjo by Sasha Wasley 5/4 3.5★

4. Hibakujumoku
*Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the the plot line - the resiliency needed to deal with grief, being reconciled to loss & finding peace after both
The House of Sorrowing Stars by Beth Cartwright 7/4 2.5★

5. Cedars of God
*Read a book over 400 pages long - 476p
Written in Dead Wax by Andrew Cartmel 17/4 3.5★

6. Socotra Dragon Tree
*Read a book set on an island - Samoa
Scarlet Lies by Lani Wendt Young 1/4 2★

7. Strangler Fig
*Read a book with an MC who is described as strong - Carrot is strong physically, he has a strong sense of right & wrong, & his goodness has a powerful effect on people
Men at Arms by Terry Pratchett 13/4 5★

8. The Major Oak
*Read a book set in the UK - London, Brighton
Death of a Bookseller by Alice Slater 5/4 1.5★

9. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
*Read a book that had a calming influence on you - must have been the sound of the water
The Oyster Catcher by Jo Thomas 4/4 3.5★



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Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
April 1, 2024 - June 30, 2024
0/9

1. Methuselah
*Read one of the oldest books on your TBR (share when you added it) OR read a book originally published in 2012 (share publication date).

2. Old Tjikko
*Read a book from a favorite series you have already started OR read a book set in Scandanavia (tell us where).

3. Pando
*Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO (ignore A, An or The) OR read a book set in the USA (tell us where).

4. Hibakujumoku
*Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the the plot line (tell us how) OR read a book tagged WAR on its GR Homepage.

5. Cedars of God
*Read a book over 400 pages long (share page count) OR read a book set in Ancient Times (tell us when).

6. Socotra Dragon Tree
*Read a book with a red cover (post cover) OR read a book set on an island (tell us where).

7. Strangler Fig
*Read a book with an MC who is described as strong (tell us why) OR read a book set in Asia (tell us where).

8. The Major Oak
*Read a book with a single tree featured in the story or on cover (post cover) OR read a book set in the UK (tell us where).

9. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
*Read a book that had a calming influence on you (tell us why) OR read a book tagged NATURE on its GR Homepage.

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Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
April 1, 2024 - June 30, 2024
8/9
(view spoiler)[
1. Methuselah
*Read one of the oldest books on your TBR (share when you added it) OR read a book originally published in 2012 (share publication date).
Added 3/25/19 Signed, Sealed and Dead Carolyn Ridder Aspenson 7/7/24

2. Old Tjikko
*Read a book from a favorite series you have already started OR read a book set in Scandanavia (tell us where).
Tourist Trap Mysteries-Murder in a Tourist Town Lynn Cahoon 4/3/24

3. Pando
*Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO (ignore A, An or The) OR read a book set in the USA (tell us where).
Massachusetts A Brush with Murder Donna Clancy 4/2/24

4. Hibakujumoku
*Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the the plot line (tell us how) OR read a book tagged WAR on its GR Homepage.
(view spoiler)[Mattie was having some issues with the foster family she was with, and Zoe was trying to make sure there was no real trouble but she did end up applying and getting picked to foster her. Mattie’s her younger sister’s bestie, an only child put into foster care which was a shock to her system when four other kids were in the house (hide spoiler)] A Rash Decision Emily James 4/4/24

5. Cedars of God
*Read a book over 400 pages long (share page count) OR read a book set in Ancient Times (tell us when).

6. Socotra Dragon Tree
*Read a book with a red cover (post cover) OR read a book set on an island (tell us where).
Fictional SeaBreeze Island FL Death in the Wind L.C. Richards 4/7/24

7. Strangler Fig
*Read a book with an MC who is described as strong (tell us why) OR read a book set in Asia (tell us where).
She’s strong from working out and she’s had to be strong after losing her husband and starting over alone Fools Ruff In Summer Prescott 4/5/24

8. The Major Oak
*Read a book with a single tree featured in the story or on cover (post cover) OR read a book set in the UK (tell us where).
Fictional Welsh village of Caerleon A Word to the Witch Victoria DeLuis 4/17/24

9. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
*Read a book that had a calming influence on you (tell us why) OR read a book tagged NATURE on its GR Homepage.
The MC has dachshunds, they always make me calm! And it didn't hurt that the MC runs a bakery ;) Spilling the Tea on Murder Paige H. Perry 4/4/24
(hide spoiler)]

Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
April 1, 2024 - June 30, 2024

8/9

1. Methuselah
*Read a book originally published in 2012 (share publication date). - Pub 8/10/12 - Chasing Bliss Sophie Oak - 4/11/24

2. Old Tjikko
*Read a book from a favorite series you have already started - Siren Unleashed Sophie Oak - 4/25/24

3. Pando
*Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO (ignore A, An or The) - The Dom Who Came in from the Cold Lexi Blake - 4/4/24

4. Hibakujumoku
*Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the the plot line (tell us how) OR read a book tagged WAR on its GR Homepage.

5. Cedars of God
*Read a book over 400 pages long (share page count) - 690 pgs-Valentine Roulette Livia Grant - 4/28/24

6. Socotra Dragon Tree
*Read a book set on an island (tell us where). - Set on Capri - Racing the Sun Karina Halle - 6/14/24

7. Strangler Fig
*Read a book with an MC who is described as strong (tell us why) - Mikhail is very strong - Pg 109 - He's powerful and strong - Highest Bidder K.C. Crowne - 4/17/24

8. The Major Oak
*Read a book set in the UK (tell us where). - England - A Season for Treason Golden Angel - 6/28/24

9. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
*Read a book that had a calming influence on you (tell us why) - Story was updating us on all the characters lives in the series - no stress - Sirens in Bliss Sophie Oak - 10/17/24

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ARBOR DAY CELEBRATION OF TREES, 4/1 – 6/30
9/9 COMPLETE

1. METHUSELAH
*Read a book originally published in 2012 (share publication date)
publ 5-8-12 : Murder Mystery Book Club (Florida Keys Bed & Breakfast #1), by Danielle Collins, finished 4/24/24 ★★★.5

2. OLD TJIKKO
*Read a book from a favorite series you have already started
Scents and Sensibility (Chet and Bernie #8), by Spencer Quinn, finished 4/12/24 ★★★★

3. PANDO
*Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO (ignore A, An or The) OR read a book set in the USA (tell us where)
both / set Ohio : Dial M for Mousse (Emergency Dessert Squad #3), by Laura Bradford, finished 4/4/24 ★★★★

4. HIBAKUJUMOKU
*Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the the plot line (tell us how)
The Summer We Started Over, by Nancy Thayer, finished 4/8/24 ★★★★
(view spoiler)[ Dove came home; Eddie and Jeff reconciled and more (hide spoiler)]

5. CEDARS OF GOD
*Read a book over 400 pages long (share page count)
480 pages : Doing Time (Time Police #1), by Jodi Taylor, finished 4/25/24 ★★★★

6. SOCOTRA DRAGON TREE
*Read a book with a red cover (post cover)
The Maid (Molly the Maid #1), by Nita Prose, finished 4/20/24 ★★★.5


7. STRANGLER FIG
*Read a book with an MC who is described as strong (tell us why)
Hide and Seek (Inspector Rebus #2), by Ian Rankin, finished 4/7/24 ★★★.5
p 201 "Lanyon considered this, saw that Rebus was a strong man..."

8. THE MAJOR OAK
*Read a book set in the UK (tell us where)
Peridale, England : Pancakes and Corpses (Peridale Café #1), by Agatha Frost, finished 4/3/24 ★★★.5

9. ARASHIYAMA BAMBOO GROVE
*Read a book tagged NATURE on its GR Homepage
Reading the Glass: A Captain’s View of Weather, Water and Life on Ships, by Elliot Rappaport, finished 5/3/24 ★★★.5



*** CHALLENGE COMPLETE 5/3/24 ***

Jan wrote: "Read one of the oldest books on your TBR"

Do you mean oldest by publication date, or oldest by when it was added to our TBR?

Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
April 1 - June 30, 2024

9/9 DONE

1. Methuselah
* originally published in 2012 May 01, 2012 The Enemy's Kiss Zandria Munson 6/23
2. Old Tjikko
* from a favorite series you have already started (Phryne Fisher, #9) Raisins and Almonds Kerry Greenwood 6/14
3. Pando
* title that starts with a letter in PANDO All Spell Breaks Loose Lisa Shearin 6/14
4. Hibakujumoku
* where resiliency is featured prominently in the the plot line -- young Annie is amazing Marrying Emily Susan Stoker 5/15
5. Cedars of God
* over 400 pages long 432 pp The Unhoneymooners Christina Lauren 6/11
6. Socotra Dragon Tree
* set on an island - Anegada Palms, Paradise, Poison John Keyse-Walker 6/5
7. Strangler Fig
*MC who is described as strong -- Harley Rescuing Harley Susan Stoker 5/15
8. The Major Oak
* set in the UK London Amongst Our Weapons Ben Aaronovitch 6/1
9. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
* tagged NATURE Stranger Ranger Daisy Prescott 5/6

Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
April 1 - June 30, 2024

9 of 9 Complete

🌳 1. METHUSELAH
Read a book originally published in 2012 (share publication date).
On Dublin Street - Samantha Young - 6/13/24 - first published Aug 31, 2012

🌳 2. OLD TJIKKO
Read a book set in Scandanavia (tell us where).
Unwanted - Kristina Ohlsson - 6/1/24 - set in Sweden

🌳 3. PANDO
Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO.
Perestroika in Paris - Jane Smiley - 6/5/24

🌳 4. HIBAKUJUMOKU
Read a book tagged WAR on its GR Homepage.
All Quiet on the Western Front - Erich Maria Remarque - 6/12/24

🌳 5. CEDARS OF GOD
Read a book over 400 pages long (share page count).
A Place of Greater Safety - Hilary Mantel - 6/7/24 - 748 pages

🌳 6. SOCOTRA DRAGON TREE
Read a book set on an island.
Silver Girl - Elin Hilderbrand - 4/25/24 - set on Nantucket Island

🌳 7. STRANGLER FIG
Read a book set in Asia (tell us where).
Golden Buddha - Clive Cussler - 5/3/24 - set in China

🌳 8. THE MAJOR OAK
Read a book set in the UK (tell us where).
Romancing Mister Bridgerton - Julia Quinn - 6/6/24 - set in England

🌳 9. ARASHIYAMA BAMBOO GROVE
Read a book tagged NATURE on its GR Homepage.
Wicked Bugs: The Louse That Conquered Napoleon's Army and Other Diabolical Insects - Amy Stewart - 4/25/24

Thanks for joining everyone!

Catsalive wrote: "Lovely, lovely trees ."

Yes they are!

Barb wrote: "Jan wrote: "Read one of the oldest books on your TBR"

Do you mean oldest by publication date, or oldest by when it was added to our TBR?"

When it was added! That's why I asked for when you added it to your TBR.

Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
April 01 - June 30, 2024

1. METHUSELAH
*Read a book originally published in 2012 01/01/2012
File M for Murder, Miranda James 04/11

2. OLD TJIKKO
*Read a book set in Scandanavia ==> Norway
Mayhem (and Herring), Blake Pierce 05/10

3. PANDO
*Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO (ignore A, An or The) AND set in the USA ==> St. Louis
Death on a Platter, Elaine Viets 04/04

4. HIBAKUJUMOKU
*Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the the plot line ==> surviving during wartime; ALSO a book tagged WAR on its GR Homepage.
Fire When Ready, Kate Kingsbury 04/11

5. CEDARS OF GOD
*Read a book over 400 pages long ==> 546p
What Alice Forgot, Liane Moriarty 04/03

6. SOCOTRA DRAGON TREE
*Read a book set on an island ==> Grand Cayman
Fields' Guide to Dirty Money, Julie Mulhern 04/01

7. STRANGLER FIG
*Read a book set in Asia ==> Singapore
The Betel Nut Tree Mystery, Ovidia Yu 04/10

8. THE MAJOR OAK
*Read a book set in the UK ==> the Cotswolds
The Blood of an Englishman, M.C. Beaton 04/02

9. ARASHIYAMA BAMBOO GROVE
*Read a book that had a calming influence on you ==> features seniors reconnecting and enjoying life
The Silver Ladies Do Lunch, Judy Leigh 04/05

Jan wrote: "Barb wrote: "Jan wrote: "Read one of the oldest books on your TBR"

Do you mean oldest by publication date, or oldest by when it was added to our TBR?"

When it was added! That's why I asked for when you added it..."

That's what I thought - and hoped :) Thanks!

*****COMPLETED 8/26/24*****

Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
April 1, 2024 - June 30, 2024

9/9

1. Methuselah
Standing against time, this ancient bristlecone pine located within California’s Inyo National Forest, is known as Methuselah because it is the oldest non-clonal tree in the world. This gnarled tree has stood in this hostile environment, that includes high altitude and extreme temperatures, for nearly 5,000 years (4,849 years, to be exact). Methuselah is but one of many ancient bristlecone pines growing in the mountains here. In fact, in 2012 scientists tested another one in the area that may be even older!

*Read one of the oldest books on your TBR (share when you added it) OR read a book originally published in 2012 (share publication date).-pub. 2012- The Colonel's Mistake by Dan Mayland-5/27/24

2. Old Tjikko
Old Tjikko is a Norway spruce found, perhaps confusingly, in Sweden in 2004. It stands 5 meters (16 ft) tall and is located on Fulufjället Mountain in the Dalarna Province. What makes this trees so extraordinary is its root system which has been growing for 9,550 years. The visible part of the tree is far younger, only a couple centuries old. Unlike Methuselah, the Norway spruce has the ability to clone itself - meaning that after one stem dies, another one springs from the same root system. Leif Kullman, the researcher and scientist who found it, attributed the "new" growth to global warming and gave the tree its nickname "Old Tjikko" after his late dog.

*Read a book from a favorite series you have already started- The End by Lemony Snicket-4/3/24-
OR read a book set in Scandanavia (tell us where).

3. Pando
Speaking of old root systems, a grove of quaking aspens in the US state of Utah is considered one of the world biggest living organisms. The 107 acres of aspens are known as the Trembling Giant, or Pando (which means "I Spread" in Latin). The grove (or more specifically its roots) are thought to date to the end of the last Ice Age - about 11,700 years ago. Because each of the 47,000 trees are genetically identical and share a single root system, researchers consider them a single organism rather than separate trees.

*Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO (ignore A, An or The)- The Now Habit: A Strategic Program for Overcoming Procrastination and Enjoying Guilt-Free Play by Neil A. Fiore-4/11/24
OR read a book set in the USA (tell us where).

4. Hibakujumoku
Ginkgo biloba trees are known for their ability to survive all manner of natural disasters. But no one could have guessed the slender trees with fan-shaped leaves would endure one of the darkest moments in modern human history: the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945. The devastation left 5 square miles of destruction, killing off most of the vegetation within the area. But the following spring these singed, barkless ginkgo trees, once again bloomed, inspiring hope among survivors in the difficult days ahead. The 170 trees, called hibakujumoku or “survivor trees,” are labeled with plaques that share their story and stand as reminders of resiliency, reconciliation, and peace.

*Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the the plot line (tell us how) OR read a book tagged WAR on its GR Homepage.- All Souls' Rising by Madison Smartt Bell- 8/26/24

5. Cedars of God
The Cedars of God is a small forest of about 400 Lebanon Cedar trees in the mountains of northern Lebanon. They are among the last survivors of the extensive forests of the Cedars of Lebanon that thrived here in ancient times. The Cedars of Lebanon are mentioned in the Bible over 70 times and King Solomon used the famous trees in the construction of the First Temple in Jerusalem. But after centuries of persistent deforestation, the extent of these forests has been markedly reduced to this last important grove. In 1985, the "Committee of the Friends of the Cedar Forest" initiated a reforestation program and planted 200,000 new cedars trees. In 1998, The Forests of the Cedars of God were added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites, and are now rigorously protected.

*Read a book over 400 pages long (share page count) - The White Woman on the Green Bicycle by Monique Roffey- 6/25/24--439p
OR read a book set in Ancient Times (tell us when).

6. Socotra Dragon Tree
The Socotra Dragon Tree, or Dragon Blood Tree, is an endemic tree, meaning that this particular species can only be found in one place - on the island of Socotra, off the coast of Yemen. Visually the tree is very unique with its umbrella shape which allows the tree to collect and absorb mist that passes over the island. What makes it even more interesting is the red resin inside of the tree’s trunk. Local legend says that the first Dragon Blood Tree was created from the blood of an injured dragon. The resin has been harvested for hundreds of years for medicine, varnishes, and dyes. Only experienced harvesters are allowed to extract the resin from the tree, as it puts the tree at jeopardy if it is not done correctly. Other species of Dragon tree can be found individually in other locations, but this island is home to the last remaining Dragon Tree Forest.

*Read a book with a red cover (post cover) OR read a book set on an island (tell us where).-Manhattan- 84, Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff-5/7/24

7. Strangler Fig
This photo really makes you realize the strength of a tree! This is Ta Prohm Temple, a Buddhist monastery in Cambodia built in 1186 as part of Angkor Wat. As you can see, this fig tree has taken over the structure, virtually "strangling" it. The buildings were constructed without the use of mortar which allowed the trees to establish roots among the dislodged stones when the buildings were abandoned by humans. It is intriguing to observe the interdependence between the trees and structures, each now relying on the other for survival. The temple has been intentionally preserved in its "untouched state" to allow visitors to witness this amazing merging of nature and man.

*Read a book with an MC who is described as strong (tell us why) OR read a book set in Asia (tell us where).-Burma- The End by Lemony Snicket-4/3/24-

8. The Major Oak
Sherwood Forest of Nottinghamshire, England, was made famous by the legend of Robin Hood. Located in the heart of the forest is a huge oak tree that, according to local folklore, provided shelter and a place to sleep for this band of outlaws. The famous tree is between 800 to a 1000 years old, weighs about 23 tons, has a girth of 33 feet, with branches that spread up to 92 feet. It was christened Major Oak after Major Hayman Rooke, a noted antiquarian, included the tree in a popular book about the ancient oaks of Sherwood Forest, published in 1790.

*Read a book with a single tree featured in the story or on cover (post cover) OR read a book set in the UK (tell us where).-set in the Cotswolds in England- -Mona of the Manor by Armistead Maupin-6/11/24

9. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
While we could go on about the ethereal glow and seemingly endless heights of this bamboo grove on the outskirts of Kyoto, Japan, the pleasures here extend beyond the visual realm. If you close your eyes, tune out the nearby tourists, and listen to the wind, the wood creaking, and leaves rustling, you'll experience the true beauty of the destination. In 1996, the local Ministry of the Environment even included Arashiyama as one of the country's top 100 Soundscapes of Japan, an initiative to combat noise pollution and encourage people to take in the sounds of the natural world. When was the last time you walked in a forest and was bathed by the sound of the trees?

*Read a book that had a calming influence on you (tell us why) - a book all about positivity- 14,000 Things to Be Happy About: The Happy Book by Barbara Ann Kipfer-7/3/24
OR read a book tagged NATURE on its GR Homepage.

Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
April 1, 2024 - June 30, 2024
9/9

1. Methuselah
Standing against time, this ancient bristlecone pine located within California’s Inyo National Forest, is known as Methuselah because it is the oldest non-clonal tree in the world. This gnarled tree has stood in this hostile environment, that includes high altitude and extreme temperatures, for nearly 5,000 years (4,849 years, to be exact). Methuselah is but one of many ancient bristlecone pines growing in the mountains here. In fact, in 2012 scientists tested another one in the area that may be even older!

*Read a book originally published in 2012 (share publication date).
The Forest Unseen: A Year's Watch in Nature by David George Haskell 4/7
4/1/2012

2. Old Tjikko
Old Tjikko is a Norway spruce found, perhaps confusingly, in Sweden in 2004. It stands 5 meters (16 ft) tall and is located on Fulufjället Mountain in the Dalarna Province. What makes this trees so extraordinary is its root system which has been growing for 9,550 years. The visible part of the tree is far younger, only a couple centuries old. Unlike Methuselah, the Norway spruce has the ability to clone itself - meaning that after one stem dies, another one springs from the same root system. Leif Kullman, the researcher and scientist who found it, attributed the "new" growth to global warming and gave the tree its nickname "Old Tjikko" after his late dog.

*Read a book from a favorite series you have already started
The World of Jeeves by P.G. Wodehouse 4/17

3. Pando
Speaking of old root systems, a grove of quaking aspens in the US state of Utah is considered one of the world biggest living organisms. The 107 acres of aspens are known as the Trembling Giant, or Pando (which means "I Spread" in Latin). The grove (or more specifically its roots) are thought to date to the end of the last Ice Age - about 11,700 years ago. Because each of the 47,000 trees are genetically identical and share a single root system, researchers consider them a single organism rather than separate trees.

*Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO (ignore A, An or The)
Password to Larkspur Lane by Carolyn Keene 4/12

4. Hibakujumoku
Ginkgo biloba trees are known for their ability to survive all manner of natural disasters. But no one could have guessed the slender trees with fan-shaped leaves would endure one of the darkest moments in modern human history: the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945. The devastation left 5 square miles of destruction, killing off most of the vegetation within the area. But the following spring these singed, barkless ginkgo trees, once again bloomed, inspiring hope among survivors in the difficult days ahead. The 170 trees, called hibakujumoku or “survivor trees,” are labeled with plaques that share their story and stand as reminders of resiliency, reconciliation, and peace.

*Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the the plot line (tell us how)
Operation Reunion by Justine Davis 4/27
Kayla's search for her missing brother has taken 10 years, and Dane doesn't feel they can go on this way. So there's a lot of both resiliency and reconciliation going on in their relationship as the story progresses.

5. Cedars of God
The Cedars of God is a small forest of about 400 Lebanon Cedar trees in the mountains of northern Lebanon. They are among the last survivors of the extensive forests of the Cedars of Lebanon that thrived here in ancient times. The Cedars of Lebanon are mentioned in the Bible over 70 times and King Solomon used the famous trees in the construction of the First Temple in Jerusalem. But after centuries of persistent deforestation, the extent of these forests has been markedly reduced to this last important grove. In 1985, the "Committee of the Friends of the Cedar Forest" initiated a reforestation program and planted 200,000 new cedars trees. In 1998, The Forests of the Cedars of God were added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites, and are now rigorously protected.

*Read a book over 400 pages long (share page count) AND read a book set in Ancient Times (tell us when).
The Rise of the Roman Empire by Polybius 4/25
541 pp, 200-167 BC

6. Socotra Dragon Tree
The Socotra Dragon Tree, or Dragon Blood Tree, is an endemic tree, meaning that this particular species can only be found in one place - on the island of Socotra, off the coast of Yemen. Visually the tree is very unique with its umbrella shape which allows the tree to collect and absorb mist that passes over the island. What makes it even more interesting is the red resin inside of the tree’s trunk. Local legend says that the first Dragon Blood Tree was created from the blood of an injured dragon. The resin has been harvested for hundreds of years for medicine, varnishes, and dyes. Only experienced harvesters are allowed to extract the resin from the tree, as it puts the tree at jeopardy if it is not done correctly. Other species of Dragon tree can be found individually in other locations, but this island is home to the last remaining Dragon Tree Forest.

*Read a book set on an island (tell us where).
Moonspinners by Mary Stewart 4/26
Crete

7. Strangler Fig
This photo really makes you realize the strength of a tree! This is Ta Prohm Temple, a Buddhist monastery in Cambodia built in 1186 as part of Angkor Wat. As you can see, this fig tree has taken over the structure, virtually "strangling" it. The buildings were constructed without the use of mortar which allowed the trees to establish roots among the dislodged stones when the buildings were abandoned by humans. It is intriguing to observe the interdependence between the trees and structures, each now relying on the other for survival. The temple has been intentionally preserved in its "untouched state" to allow visitors to witness this amazing merging of nature and man.

*Read a book with an MC who is described as strong (tell us why)
Crash Landing by Janice Kay Johnson 4/10
Gwen is physically strong, (bakcpacking, climbing) and also mentally, in her job as an EMT for a flight-for-life type group.

8. The Major Oak
Sherwood Forest of Nottinghamshire, England, was made famous by the legend of Robin Hood. Located in the heart of the forest is a huge oak tree that, according to local folklore, provided shelter and a place to sleep for this band of outlaws. The famous tree is between 800 to a 1000 years old, weighs about 23 tons, has a girth of 33 feet, with branches that spread up to 92 feet. It was christened Major Oak after Major Hayman Rooke, a noted antiquarian, included the tree in a popular book about the ancient oaks of Sherwood Forest, published in 1790.

*Read a book set in the UK (tell us where).
Dressed to Kilt by Hannah Reed 4/10
Scotland

9. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
While we could go on about the ethereal glow and seemingly endless heights of this bamboo grove on the outskirts of Kyoto, Japan, the pleasures here extend beyond the visual realm. If you close your eyes, tune out the nearby tourists, and listen to the wind, the wood creaking, and leaves rustling, you'll experience the true beauty of the destination. In 1996, the local Ministry of the Environment even included Arashiyama as one of the country's top 100 Soundscapes of Japan, an initiative to combat noise pollution and encourage people to take in the sounds of the natural world. When was the last time you walked in a forest and was bathed by the sound of the trees?

*Read a book that had a calming influence on you (tell us why)
Real Happiness: A 28-Day Program to Realize the Power of Meditation by Sharon Salzberg 6/10
I discovered a couple of new ways to meditate that really did help me feel calmer.

Thanks for joining Ed & Teri!

Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
04/01/2024 - 06/30/2024

1. Methuselah
*Read one of the oldest books on your TBR (share when you added it) OR read a book originally published in 2012 (share publication date).
Paula Brackston 05/05/2024 published - 12/18/2012

2. Old Tjikko
*Read a book from a favorite series you have already started OR read a book set in Scandanavia (tell us where).
Tillie Cole 01/03/2025 Norway

3. Pando
*Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO (ignore A, An or The) OR read a book set in the USA (tell us where).
Ann Rule 05/28/2024 Setting - California

4. Hibakujumoku
*Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the the plot line (tell us how) OR read a book tagged WAR on its GR Homepage.
Lynn Vincent 07/07/2014

5. Cedars of God
*Read a book over 400 pages long (share page count) OR read a book set in Ancient Times (tell us when).
Karen Rose 06/07/2024 593 Pages

6. Socotra Dragon Tree
*Read a book with a red cover (post cover) OR read a book set on an island (tell us where).
Kylie Brant 11/19/2024

7. Strangler Fig
*Read a book with an MC who is described as strong (tell us why) OR read a book set in Asia (tell us where).
Indu Sundaresan 04/01/2024 Setting - India

8. The Major Oak
*Read a book with a single tree featured in the story or on cover (post cover) OR read a book set in the UK (tell us where).
Allison Brook 12/28/2024

9. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
*Read a book that had a calming influence on you (tell us why) OR read a book tagged NATURE on its GR Homepage.
Christine Carbo 12/29/2024

Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
04/01/2024 - 06/30/2024
Finished 5/18/2024

1. Methuselah
*Read a book originally published in 2012 (10/23/2012).
My Kind of Christmas. Robyn Carr. 5.18.24

2. Old Tjikko
*Read a book from a favorite series you have already started.
Manitou Canyon. William Kent Krueger. 4.18.24

3. Pando
*Read a book set in the USA (Jackson, Mississippi).
The Sweet Potato Queens' Book of Love: A Fallen Southern Belle's Look at Love, Life, Men, Marriage, and Being Prepared. Jill Conner Browne. 4.15.24

4. Hibakujumoku
*Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the the plot line (Family reconciliation is one of the main themes of the book.)
The Christmas Pearl. Dorothea Benton Frank. 4.17.24

5. Cedars of God
*Read a book over 400 pages long (401).
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow. Gabrielle Zevin. 4.17.24

6. Socotra Dragon Tree
*Read a book set on an island (Key West).
Silver Alert: A Novel. Lee Smith. 4.21.24

7. Strangler Fig
*Read a book with an MC who is described as strong (She stands up for what she believes is right, even when it means tanking her future.)
Welcome to Beach Town. Susan Wiggs. 4.23.24

8. The Major Oak
*Read a book set in the UK (England).
Rules of Murder. Julianna Deering. 5.1.24

9. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
*Read a book that had a calming influence on you (The book's message is one of love and forgiveness.)
151 Things God Can't Do. Maisie Sparks. 4.16.24

Thanks for joining Bev & Kim!

Done

Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
April 1, 2024 - June 30, 2024
9/9

1. Methuselah
*Read one of the oldest books on your TBR (share when you added it) - about 15 years ago
Imitation in Death by J.D. Robb 9/4 3.5★

2. Old Tjikko
*Read a book from a favorite series you have already started
Away with the Fairies by Kerry Greenwood 3/4 5★

3. Pando
*Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO
Dear Banjo by Sasha Wasley 5/4 3.5★

4. Hibakujumoku
*Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the the plot line - the resiliency needed to deal with grief, being reconciled to loss & finding peace after both
The House of Sorrowing Stars by Beth Cartwright 7/4 2.5★

5. Cedars of God
*Read a book over 400 pages long - 476p
Written in Dead Wax by Andrew Cartmel 17/4 3.5★

6. Socotra Dragon Tree
*Read a book set on an island - Samoa
Scarlet Lies by Lani Wendt Young 1/4 2★

7. Strangler Fig
*Read a book with an MC who is described as strong - Carrot is strong physically, he has a strong sense of right & wrong, & his goodness has a powerful effect on people
Men at Arms by Terry Pratchett 13/4 5★

8. The Major Oak
*Read a book set in the UK - London, Brighton
Death of a Bookseller by Alice Slater 5/4 1.5★

9. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
*Read a book that had a calming influence on you - must have been the sound of the water
The Oyster Catcher by Jo Thomas 4/4 3.5★



↟↟ .♥ . ↟↟ .♥ . ↟↟ .♥ . ↟↟ .♥ . ↟↟ .♥ . ↟↟ .♥ . ↟↟ .♥ . ↟↟ .♥ . ↟↟ .♥ . ↟↟ .♥ . ↟↟ .♥ . ↟↟ .♥ . ↟↟ .♥ . ↟↟ .♥ . ↟↟

I missed this one when it was first posted, too. Mind if I join late?
17/04/2024 - 16/07/2024

This was more of a struggle than I expected - finished on 14/07/24
9/9

1. Methuselah: *Read one of the oldest books on your TBR (share when you added it) OR read a book originally published in 2012 (share publication date).

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and Six Other Stories, F. Scott Fitzgerald – 14/07/24
Been on the TBR since 19 March 2009

2. Old Tjikko: *Read a book from a favourite series you have already started OR read a book set in Scandinavia (tell us where).

The Longmire Defense, Craig Johnson - 05/05/24
The Longmire series is one of my favourites.

3. Pando: *Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO (ignore A, An or The) OR read a book set in the USA (tell us where).

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, Sherman Alexie - 20/04/20
Without "The", it starts with a letter in pAndo, and it’s also set in the US - on the Spokane Reservation and Reardan, WA.

4. Hibakujumoku: *Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the plot line (tell us how) OR read a book tagged WAR on its GR Homepage.

Sharpe's Assassin, Bernard Cornwell - 20/05/24
Tagged WAR

5. Cedars of God: *Read a book over 400 pages long (share page count) OR read a book set in Ancient Times (tell us when).

Promises Stronger Than Darkness, Charlie Jane Anders - 13/05/24
Long book: 496pg

6. Socotra Dragon Tree: *Read a book with a red cover (post cover) OR read a book set on an island (tell us where).

By the Book, Liz Hedgecock – 18/06/24
Red cover


7. Strangler Fig: *Read a book with an MC who is described as strong (tell us why) OR read a book set in Asia (tell us where).

Tokyo Express, Seichō Matsumoto - 17/04/24
Set in Japan. The young detective literally travels from one end of the archipelago (Hakata) to the other (Sapporo)

8. The Major Oak: *Read a book with a single tree featured in the story or on cover (post cover) OR read a book set in the UK (tell us where).

A Manor of Life & Death, Kim M. Watt - 17/04/24
Set in Yorkshire, England, UK.

9. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: *Read a book that had a calming influence on you (tell us why) OR read a book tagged NATURE on its GR Homepage.

The Year of Sitting Dangerously: My Garden Safari, Simon Barnes - 14/05/24
Tagged as Nature

Great job Kylie!

Trish wrote: "I missed this one when it was first posted, too. Mind if I join late?"

Never too late!! Welcome Trish!

Finished

ARBOR DAY CELEBRATION OF TREES, 4/1 – 6/30
9/9 COMPLETE

1. METHUSELAH
*Read a book originally published in 2012 (share publication date)
publ 5-8-12 : Murder Mystery Book Club (Florida Keys Bed & Breakfast #1), by Danielle Collins, finished 4/24/24 ★★★.5

2. OLD TJIKKO
*Read a book from a favorite series you have already started
Scents and Sensibility (Chet and Bernie #8), by Spencer Quinn, finished 4/12/24 ★★★★

3. PANDO
*Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO (ignore A, An or The) OR read a book set in the USA (tell us where)
both / set Ohio : Dial M for Mousse (Emergency Dessert Squad #3), by Laura Bradford, finished 4/4/24 ★★★★

4. HIBAKUJUMOKU
*Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the the plot line (tell us how)
The Summer We Started Over, by Nancy Thayer, finished 4/8/24 ★★★★
(view spoiler)[ Dove came home; Eddie and Jeff reconciled and more (hide spoiler)]

5. CEDARS OF GOD
*Read a book over 400 pages long (share page count)
480 pages : Doing Time (Time Police #1), by Jodi Taylor, finished 4/25/24 ★★★★

6. SOCOTRA DRAGON TREE
*Read a book with a red cover (post cover)
The Maid (Molly the Maid #1), by Nita Prose, finished 4/20/24 ★★★.5


7. STRANGLER FIG
*Read a book with an MC who is described as strong (tell us why)
Hide and Seek (Inspector Rebus #2), by Ian Rankin, finished 4/7/24 ★★★.5
p 201 "Lanyon considered this, saw that Rebus was a strong man..."

8. THE MAJOR OAK
*Read a book set in the UK (tell us where)
Peridale, England : Pancakes and Corpses (Peridale Café #1), by Agatha Frost, finished 4/3/24 ★★★.5

9. ARASHIYAMA BAMBOO GROVE
*Read a book tagged NATURE on its GR Homepage
Reading the Glass: A Captain’s View of Weather, Water and Life on Ships, by Elliot Rappaport, finished 5/3/24 ★★★.5



*** CHALLENGE COMPLETE 5/3/24 ***

Nicely done Barb!

Thanks, Jan!

Finished!

Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
April 01 - June 30, 2024

1. METHUSELAH
*Read a book originally published in 2012 01/01/2012
File M for Murder, Miranda James 04/11

2. OLD TJIKKO
*Read a book set in Scandanavia ==> Norway
Mayhem (and Herring), Blake Pierce 05/10

3. PANDO
*Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO (ignore A, An or The) AND set in the USA ==> St. Louis
Death on a Platter, Elaine Viets 04/04

4. HIBAKUJUMOKU
*Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the the plot line ==> surviving during wartime; ALSO a book tagged WAR on its GR Homepage.
Fire When Ready, Kate Kingsbury 04/11

5. CEDARS OF GOD
*Read a book over 400 pages long ==> 546p
What Alice Forgot, Liane Moriarty 04/03

6. SOCOTRA DRAGON TREE
*Read a book set on an island ==> Grand Cayman
Fields' Guide to Dirty Money, Julie Mulhern 04/01

7. STRANGLER FIG
*Read a book set in Asia ==> Singapore
The Betel Nut Tree Mystery, Ovidia Yu 04/10

8. THE MAJOR OAK
*Read a book set in the UK ==> the Cotswolds
The Blood of an Englishman, M.C. Beaton 04/02

9. ARASHIYAMA BAMBOO GROVE
*Read a book that had a calming influence on you ==> features seniors reconnecting and enjoying life
The Silver Ladies Do Lunch, Judy Leigh 04/05

Way to go Meg!

Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
04/01/2024 - 06/30/2024
Finished 5/18/2024

1. Methuselah
*Read a book originally published in 2012 (10/23/2012).
My Kind of Christmas. Robyn Carr. 5.18.24

2. Old Tjikko
*Read a book from a favorite series you have already started.
Manitou Canyon. William Kent Krueger. 4.18.24

3. Pando
*Read a book set in the USA (Jackson, Mississippi).
The Sweet Potato Queens' Book of Love: A Fallen Southern Belle's Look at Love, Life, Men, Marriage, and Being Prepared. Jill Conner Browne. 4.15.24

4. Hibakujumoku
*Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the the plot line (Family reconciliation is one of the main themes of the book.)
The Christmas Pearl. Dorothea Benton Frank. 4.17.24

5. Cedars of God
*Read a book over 400 pages long (401).
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow. Gabrielle Zevin. 4.17.24

6. Socotra Dragon Tree
*Read a book set on an island (Key West).
Silver Alert: A Novel. Lee Smith. 4.21.24

7. Strangler Fig
*Read a book with an MC who is described as strong (She stands up for what she believes is right, even when it means tanking her future.)
Welcome to Beach Town. Susan Wiggs. 4.23.24

8. The Major Oak
*Read a book set in the UK (England).
Rules of Murder. Julianna Deering. 5.1.24

9. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
*Read a book that had a calming influence on you (The book's message is one of love and forgiveness.)
151 Things God Can't Do. Maisie Sparks. 4.16.24

Great challenge work Kim!

Finished!

Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
April 1, 2024 - June 30, 2024

1. Methuselah
*Read one of the oldest books on your TBR (share when you added it) OR read a book originally published in 2012 (share publication date).
6 March 2012- Fire Engine Dead by Sheila Connolly 13 May; 5☆


2. Old Tjikko
*Read a book from a favorite series you have already started OR read a book set in Scandanavia (tell us where).
Cross My Heart by D.K. Hood 2 April; 5☆


3. Pando
*Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO (ignore A, An or The) OR read a book set in the USA (tell us where).
Picnic in Someday Valley by Jodi Thomas 20 April; 4☆


4. Hibakujumoku
*Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the the plot line (tell us how) OR read a book tagged WAR on its GR Homepage.
two of the main characters must make peace with their past and one reconciles with a member of her family- The Family You Make by Jill Shalvis 20 May; 4 1/2☆


5. Cedars of God
*Read a book over 400 pages long (share page count) OR read a book set in Ancient Times (tell us when).
439 pages- Tre giorni per morire (=Fractured) by Karin Slaughter 18 April; 4☆


6. Socotra Dragon Tree
*Read a book with a red cover (post cover) OR read a book set on an island (tell us where).
Aquidneck Island (book set in Newport)- Murder at Kingscote by Alyssa Maxwell 10 April; 5☆


7. Strangler Fig
*Read a book with an MC who is described as strong (tell us why) OR read a book set in Asia (tell us where).
the female MC is Amish, but she stands up to her overly strict parents and themale MC thinks she is strong- Amish Fugitive by Shelley Shepard Gray 15 April; 4☆


8. The Major Oak
*Read a book with a single tree featured in the story or on cover (post cover) OR read a book set in the UK (tell us where).
Devon coast- A Deadly Walk in Devon by Nicholas George 23 April; 4☆


9. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
*Read a book that had a calming influence on you (tell us why) OR read a book tagged NATURE on its GR Homepage.
Forgotten Trail by Claire Kells 24 May; 5☆

Fantastic job Patrizia!

Finished!

Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
April 1, 2024 - June 30, 2024
9/9

1. Methuselah
*Read a book originally published in 2012 (Aug 07, 2012). You Don't Want To Know | Lisa Jackson 6/2/24*


2. Old Tjikko
*Read a book from a favorite series you have already started. A Fatal Thaw | Dana Stabenow 4/18/24****


3. Pando
*Read a book set in the USA (Blue Lake, Indiana). A Dark and Stormy Murder | Julia Buckley 5/8/23***


4. Hibakujumoku
*Read a book tagged WAR on its GR Homepage. The Key to Rebecca | Ken Follett 5/2/24***


5. Cedars of God
*Read a book over 400 pages long (480 Pages). The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo | Stieg Larsson 5/29/24****


6. Socotra Dragon Tree
*Read a book set on an island (Wenniway Island, Michigan). My Kind of You | Tracy Brogan 5/22/24****


7. Strangler Fig
*Read a book with an MC who is described as strong (everyone sees the "colonel" as a strong, steady man who can handle anything). Three Silent Things | Margaret Mayhew 6/5/24****


8. The Major Oak
*Read a book set in the UK (London). The Silent Patient | Alex Michaelides 4/10/24***


9. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
*Read a book that had a calming influence on you (this author's writing and the remote island setting was very calming reading for me - it also dealt with the saving of wildlife so it could have fit the NATURE tag too) . Stormy Petrel | Mary Stewart 5/6/24****


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Nicely done, Jan!

Thanks Jennifer!

Jan wrote: "Finished!

Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
April 1, 2024 - June 30, 2024
9/9

1. Methuselah
*Read a book originally published in 2012 (Aug 07, 2012). You Don't Want To Know | [autho..."

Nice reading, Jan. I will have to find a copy of Stormy Petrel - I haven't read that one and it sounds good!

I've also finished my challenge:
Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
April 1, 2024 - June 30, 2024
9/9

1. Methuselah

*Read a book originally published in 2012 (share publication date).
[book:The Forest Unseen: A Year's Watch in Nature|15808516] by David George Haskell 4/7
4/1/2012

2. Old Tjikko

*Read a book from a favorite series you have already started
The World of Jeeves by P.G. Wodehouse 4/17

3. Pando

*Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO (ignore A, An or The)
Password to Larkspur Lane by Carolyn Keene 4/12

4. Hibakujumoku

*Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the the plot line (tell us how)
Operation Reunion by Justine Davis 4/27
Kayla's search for her missing brother has taken 10 years, and Dane doesn't feel they can go on this way. So there's a lot of both resiliency and reconciliation going on in their relationship as the story progresses.

5. Cedars of God

*Read a book over 400 pages long (share page count) AND read a book set in Ancient Times (tell us when).
The Rise of the Roman Empire by Polybius 4/25
541 pp, 200-167 BC

6. Socotra Dragon Tree

*Read a book set on an island (tell us where).
Moonspinners by Mary Stewart 4/26
Crete

7. Strangler Fig

*Read a book with an MC who is described as strong (tell us why)
Crash Landing by Janice Kay Johnson 4/10
Gwen is physically strong, (bakcpacking, climbing) and also mentally, in her job as an EMT for a flight-for-life type group.

8. The Major Oak

*Read a book set in the UK (tell us where).
Dressed to Kilt by Hannah Reed 4/10
Scotland

9. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

*Read a book that had a calming influence on you (tell us why)
Real Happiness: A 28-Day Program to Realize the Power of Meditation by Sharon Salzberg 6/10
I discovered a couple of new ways to meditate that really did help me feel calmer.

Way to go Teri! I enjoyed the setting of Stormy Petrel. I listened to the audiobook which was nicely done.

~~~ Complete ~~~

Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
April 1 - June 30, 2024

9 of 9 Complete

🌳 1. METHUSELAH
Read a book originally published in 2012 (share publication date).
On Dublin Street - Samantha Young - 6/13/24 - first published Aug 31, 2012

🌳 2. OLD TJIKKO
Read a book set in Scandanavia (tell us where).
Unwanted - Kristina Ohlsson - 6/1/24 - set in Sweden

🌳 3. PANDO
Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO.
Perestroika in Paris - Jane Smiley - 6/5/24

🌳 4. HIBAKUJUMOKU
Read a book tagged WAR on its GR Homepage.
All Quiet on the Western Front - Erich Maria Remarque - 6/12/24

🌳 5. CEDARS OF GOD
Read a book over 400 pages long (share page count).
A Place of Greater Safety - Hilary Mantel - 6/7/24 - 748 pages

🌳 6. SOCOTRA DRAGON TREE
Read a book set on an island.
Silver Girl - Elin Hilderbrand - 4/25/24 - set on Nantucket Island

🌳 7. STRANGLER FIG
Read a book set in Asia (tell us where).
Golden Buddha - Clive Cussler - 5/3/24 - set in China

🌳 8. THE MAJOR OAK
Read a book set in the UK (tell us where).
Romancing Mister Bridgerton - Julia Quinn - 6/6/24 - set in England

🌳 9. ARASHIYAMA BAMBOO GROVE
Read a book tagged NATURE on its GR Homepage.
Wicked Bugs: The Louse That Conquered Napoleon's Army and Other Diabolical Insects - Amy Stewart - 4/25/24

Nicely done Lynda!

Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
April 1, 2024 - June 30, 2024

9/9 Completed. Finished

1. Methuselah
*Read a book originally published in 2012 (share publication date).
(7/03/12)
Criminal-Karin Slaughter 5/19/24

2. Old Tjikko
*Read a book from a favorite series you have already started
(Emma Griffin FBI Mystery Series)
The Girl and the Unexpected Gifts-A.J. Rivers 4/11/24

3. Pando
*Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO (ignore A, An or The)
Among the Echoes-Aly Martinez 4/09/24

4. Hibakujumoku
*Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the the plot line (tell us how)
(MCs work to rebuild their lives and end a family feud)
One Night-Lena Hendrix 4/12/24

5. Cedars of God
*Read a book over 400 pages long (share page count)
(448)
The Things We Leave Unfinished-Rebecca Yarros 4/17/24

6. Socotra Dragon Tree
*Read a book with a red cover (post cover)
A Very Bossy Christmas: Special Edition-Kayley Loring 4/06/24


7. Strangler Fig
*Read a book with an MC who is described as strong (tell us why).
(MC lost his parents as a teenager and had to raise his brother and then lost his brother and had to raise his nephew)
Between Hello and Goodbye-Emma Scott 4/04/24

8. The Major Oak
*Read a book with a single tree featured in the story or on cover (post cover)
Parentmoon-L.B. Dunbar 4/23/24


9. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
*Read a book that had a calming influence on you (tell us why).
(lighthearted read with HEA)
Falling-Willow Aster 5/18/24
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Way to go Frankie!

Arbor Day Celebration of Trees
April 1, 2024 - June 30, 2024
9/9.. DONE....May 20, 2012

1. Methuselah
*Read one of the oldest books on your TBR (share when you added it) OR read a book originally published in 2012 (share publication date).
Dead Case in Deadwood by Ann Charles....May 19, 2024 Published March 1, 2012

2. Old Tjikko
*Read a book from a favorite series you have already started OR read a book set in Scandanavia (tell us where).
To Fetch a Thief by Spencer Quinn.....April 6, 2024 Favorite series...A Chet and Bernie Mystery

3. Pando
*Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in PANDO (ignore A, An or The) OR read a book set in the USA (tell us where).
Once Taken by Blake Pierce....April 1, 2024 Starts with O

4. Hibakujumoku
*Read a book where resiliency, reconciliation, or peace is featured prominently in the the plot line (tell us how) OR read a book tagged WAR on its GR Homepage.
My Story by Elizabeth Smart...April 17, 2024 Elizabeth showed great resiliency after she was kidnapped

5. Cedars of God
* Read a book over 400 pages long (share page count) OR read a book set in Ancient Times (tell us when).
Lavender's Blue byJennifer Crusie.....April 24, 2024 460 pages

6. Socotra Dragon Tree
*Read a book with a red cover (post cover) OR read a book set on an island (tell us where).
On Fire Island by Jane L. Rosen.....April 8, 2024 Set on Fire Island

7. Strangler Fig
*Read a book with an MC who is described as strong (tell us why) OR read a book set in Asia (tell us where).
Don't Look by Alexandra Ivy....April 20, 2024 Kir is physically strong and protective

8. The Major Oak
*Read a book with a single tree featured in the story or on cover (post cover) OR read a book set in the UK (tell us where).
June Bug by Jess Lourey.....April 28, 2024 Part of the clue talks about a 'kissing tree'

9. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
*Read a book that had a calming influence on you (tell us why) OR read a book tagged NATURE on its GR Homepage.
The One and Only Ruby by Katherine Applegate.....May 4, 2024 Just a sweet story

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Great job Ruth!