Cozy Mystery Corner discussion

Spring Challenge - Umbrellas
Duration: 3 months from start


TASKS:

1. Scientists speculate that "sun protecting umbrellas" have been used since the dawn of human civilization. The first use of simply-made palm leaf parasols was three to four thousand year ago in Egypt and Assyria.
⛱️ Read a book with a palm tree on the cover or set in a tropical location OR read the 3rd or 4th book in a series.


2. The umbrella's original purpose was to shade a person from the sun (umbra is Latin for "shade"), a function that is reflected in the word "parasol," (derived from the French parare, "to shield" and sol, "sun") a smaller-sized umbrella used primarily by women.
🌤️ Read a book with a bright, sunny scene on the cover; post the cover.


3. During their first thousand years of life, parasols were viewed as a symbol of wealth and power. Many civilizations practiced a tradition of showcasing the exotic and complexly made parasols of their rulers. From around 1000 BC to 400 AD, small and foldable parasols represented one of the fashion accessories of women in Greece and Rome.
☂️ Read a book in any position from 400 to 1,000 (inclusive) on your TBR (or books 40 to 100 for the underachievers! 😆); tell us the position OR read a book with a wealthy female character; name her.


4. History accords two sources for the water-repelling umbrella. Roman women oiled their paper sunshades creating umbrellas for use in the rain. Other sources report the first waterproofed umbrellas were created in ancient China.
☔Read a book with rainy or stormy weather on the cover; post the cover OR read a book with a number in the title.


5. Until the middle of the 18th century, umbrellas were viewed as a female fashion accessory. The first man who publicly carried an umbrella was Englishman, Jonas Hanway, who endured laughter and scorn before its use became popular. The largest detractors were English coachmen who saw umbrellas as a threat because they derived a good portion of their income from gentlemen who took cabs in order to keep dry on rainy days.
👨🏽Read a book with a main character who is male OR read a book set in England.


6. In nineteenth-century England, specially designed handles that concealed liquor flasks, daggers and knives, small pads and pencils, or other items were in high demand by wealthy gentlemen.
🗡️ Read a book with one of the following items on the cover: liquor, dagger, knife, paper, or pencil; post the cover OR read a book in which a character is stabbed.


7. The umbrella eventually became so popular that by the mid-twentieth century, etiquette dictated that the uniform of the English gentleman include hat, gloves, and umbrella. European fashion demanded that umbrellas must be held in the middle of their shaft, with handle pointing toward the ground. English nobility preferred umbrellas made from blue or green silk.
🌂 Read a book that is in the middle of a series; tell us the book's position in the series (#_ of _) OR read a book with a blue and/or green cover (at least 50%); post the cover.


8. Umbrellas have found their way into many areas of modern life, such as a decoration for exotic cocktails and drinks. The Mexican sombrero (translated as "shade maker") is a hat that serves as a big parasol.
🍹Read a book where the MC goes to a bar or restaurant OR read a book with a hat on the cover; post the cover.


9. The majority of modern umbrellas are made in China which produces over 70% of the global supply. Umbrellas are made by a hand-assembly process that, except for a few critical areas, is performed by manual workers.
🏭 Read a book that is set in Asia or has a primary character who is Asian/Asian ancestry; name them OR read a book with a character who is a blue-collar worker; tell us the occupation.


10. Slightly more than 142 million umbrellas are sold in the United States each year, for an annual market of over 600 million dollars.
💵 Read a book that contains double L's (LL) in the author's name (first or last) or any title word OR read a book in which someone owns a successful business; tell us who.


11. "Stick" umbrella shafts may be wood, steel, fiberglass or aluminum. Fiberglass, common in large golf umbrellas, is preferred for wind resistance. Aluminum is used for lightweight, telescopic models. Wood from ash trees is among the popular choices for a sturdy wood shaft.
⚾Read a book in which a character plays golf, baseball or another outdoor sport; name the sport OR read a book with the letters A, S and H in the title. (Can be in different words and in any order).


12. Umbrellas can be used as offensive and defensive weapons. French President Nicolas Sarkozy was the first to start using a Kevlar coated umbrella as a part of his security measures. The shaft can effectively hide a secret blade or substance. For example, Bulgarian president Georgi Markov was assassinated in 1978 by a KGB agent who carried deadly poison in his modified umbrella.
☠️ Read a book with a character who has a secret (other than being the murderer) OR read a book set in a location that starts with a letter in WEAPON; tell us where.


13. In assembling an umbrella, the ribs and stretchers are first. Ribs run underneath the top (or canopy) of the umbrella; stretchers connect the ribs with the shaft of the umbrella. The stretchers are connected to the shaft with a plastic or metal runner that moves along the shaft when the umbrella is opened or closed.
☂️ Read a book whose title contains a word that ends in "ER" OR read a book with an umbrella on the cover (may be beach, patio, rain, parasol); post the cover.


14. The cover or canopy of the umbrella is hand sewn in individual panels to the ribs. Because each panel has to be shaped to the curve of the canopy, the cover cannot be cut in one piece. The typical rain umbrella has eight panels, although some umbrellas have only six panels (children's umbrellas and parasols) and some have as many as twelve panels.
🌂 Read a book that is #6, #8 or #12 in a series (tell us the series and the book's position) OR read a book where the MC is a parent and/or with a character who is a child or youth.


15. The umbrella handle is connected to the shaft at the end of the process. It can be crafted from a variety of materials; wood, plastic, metal, and rubber are commonly used.
☔ Read a book that is classified in at least two different genres (list the genres) OR read a book in which a primary character 'handles' a situation in a calm, effective manner; tell us who.


16. There are two catch springs in the shaft of each umbrella; these are small pieces of metal that need to be pressed when the umbrella is slid up the shaft to open, and again when the umbrella is slid down the shaft for closing.
☂️ Read a book with a 2 in the total number of pages; post page no. OR read a book set during Spring.


17. The first working "folding umbrella" was introduced in 1969 by Bradford Philips. Modern day umbrellas are made with fabrics that are water-repellant, durable and fold easily. Polyester, pongee, acrylic and nylon are commonly used umbrella fabrics.
🌂Read a book that takes place (or is published) during or before the 1960s; tell us when OR read a book with fabric on the cover (ex: clothes, tablecloth, curtains); post the cover.


18. Umbrellas are classified by design and function, ranging from personal rain protection to large outdoor shade. There are several types of umbrellas on the market, including: Classic, Golf, Inverted, Beach, Patio, Windproof, and Bubble.
⛱️ Read a book by an author whose first and last initials are in one of the types of umbrellas listed; tell us which one. Both initials must be in the same word.
Ex: BeaCh - Connie Berry, A Dream of Death

CHALLENGE RULES:

☂️🌂☔☂️🌂☔☂️🌂☔☂️🌂☔🌂☔☂️🌂☔☂️🌂☔☂️🌂☔☂️🌂☔☂️🌂☔

Duration: 3 months from start

To Play:
Copy and paste the tasks list.

Set a goal. How many books will you read?

Each book read = 1 point.

One book per task.

Option 1: Tasks may be repeated
Option 2: One task per book.

Post a link to the title and author and the date you finished reading.

When a task gives options, say which option you’ve chosen.

If the task calls for an item on the cover, post the book cover.

Post the page no., location, character's name, et al. when the task requires it.

Books read for this challenge also may be used for another challenge.

**This challenge is adapted from a Crazy Challenge Connection.

Players


☂️Barb

Becky

Helen

Jenny

Jonquil

Julesy

Linda

Meg

Nell

QnPoohBear

writer

Spring Challenge - Umbrellas
3/1 - 5/31/26

0/18

1. palm tree on cover or set in a tropical location OR 3rd or 4th book in a series.

2. bright, sunny scene on cover

3. book in any position from 400 to 1,000 on your TBR OR a wealthy female character

4. rainy or stormy weather on cover OR number in the title

5. MC is male OR book set in England.

6. one of the following items on the cover: liquor, dagger, knife, paper, or pencil; OR book in which a character is stabbed.

9. is set in Asia or has a primary character who is Asian OR a character who is a blue-collar worker

10. LL in the author's name or any title word OR book in which someone owns a successful business

11. character plays golf, baseball or another outdoor sport OR letters A, S and H in title

12. a character who has a secret (other than being the murderer) OR book set in a location that starts with a letter in WEAPON

13. title contains a word that ends in "ER" OR an umbrella on cover

14. #6, #8 or #12 in a series OR MC is a parent and/or with a character who is a child or youth.

15. classified in at least two different genres OR book in which a primary character 'handles' a situation in a calm, effective manner

16. 2 in the total number of pages OR set during Spring.

17. fabric on the cover (ex: clothes, tablecloth, curtains)
7. blue and green cover Killer Summer Lynda Curnyn 3/2

8. hat on cover Stella Quinn 3/2

18. author initials are in one of the types of umbrellas listed Classic Lynn Cahoon Picture Perfect Frame 3/2

Spring Challenge - Umbrellas
March 01 - May 31, 2026

Each book read = 1 point
One book per task.
Option 1: Tasks may be repeated ==> I'll try this
Option 2: One task per book.

1. ⛱️ Read a book with a palm tree on the cover or set in a tropical location OR read the 3rd or 4th book in a series.

2. 🌤️ Read a book with a bright, sunny scene on the cover; post the cover.

3. ☂️ Read a book in any position from 400 to 1,000 (inclusive) on your TBR (or books 40 to 100 for the underachievers! 😆); tell us the position OR read a book with a wealthy female character; name her.

4. ☔Read a book with rainy or stormy weather on the cover; post the cover OR read a book with a number in the title.

5. 👨🏽Read a book with a main character who is male OR read a book set in England.

6. 🗡️ Read a book with one of the following items on the cover: liquor, dagger, knife, paper, or pencil; post the cover OR read a book in which a character is stabbed.

7. 🌂 Read a book that is in the middle of a series; tell us the book's position in the series (#_ of _) OR read a book with a blue and/or green cover (at least 50%); post the cover.

8. 🍹Read a book where the main character goes to a bar or restaurant OR a book with a hat on the cover; post the cover.

9. 🏭 Read a book that is set in Asia or has a primary character who is Asian; name them OR read a book with a character who is a blue-collar worker; tell us the occupation.

10. 💵 Read a book that contains double L's (LL) in the author's name (first or last) or any title word OR read a book in which someone owns a successful business; tell us who.

11. ⚾Read a book in which a character plays golf, baseball or another outdoor sport; name the sport OR read a book with the letters A, S and H in the title. (Can be in different words and in any order).

12. ☠️ Read a book with a character who has a secret (other than being the murderer) OR read a book set in a location that starts with a letter in WEAPON; tell us where.

13. ☂️ Read a book whose title contains a word that ends in "ER" OR read a book with an umbrella on the cover (may be beach, patio, rain, parasol); post the cover.

14. 🌂 Read a book that is #6, #8 or #12 in a series (tell us the series and the book's position) OR read a book where the MC is a parent and/or with a character who is a child or youth.

15. ☔ Read a book that is classified in at least two different genres (list the genres) OR read a book in which a primary character 'handles' a situation in a calm, effective manner; tell us who.

16. ☂️ Read a book with a 2 in the total number of pages; post page no. OR read a book set during Spring.

17. 🌂 Read a book that takes place (or is published) during or before the 1960s; tell us when OR read a book with fabric on the cover (ex: clothes, tablecloth, curtains); post the cover.

18. ⛱️ Read a book by an author whose first and last initials are in one of the types of umbrellas listed: Classic, Golf, Inverted, Beach, Patio, Windproof, and Bubble; tell us which one. Both initials must be in the same word.
Ex: BeaCh - Connie Berry, A Dream of Death

Spring Challenge - Umbrellas
Goal: 12 books

Option 1: May repeat tasks.

Progress: 7/12

TASKS:

1. ⛱️ Read a book with a palm tree on the cover or set in a tropical location OR read the 3rd or 4th book in a series.
Marlow Murder Club #4: Murder on the Marlow Belle by Robert Thorogood 3/28/26


2.🌤️ Read a book with a bright, sunny scene on the cover; post the cover.


3.☂️ Read a book in any position from 400 to 1,000 (inclusive) on your TBR (or books 40 to 100 for the underachievers! 😆); tell us the position OR read a book with a wealthy female character; name her.
The Wedding People by Alison Espach - Delilah



4. ☔Read a book with rainy or stormy weather on the cover; post the cover OR read a book with a number in the title.
Two Bodies Are Better Than One by Erica Ruth Neubauer


5. 👨🏽Read a book with a main character who is male OR read a book set in England.
Murder Two Doors Down by Chuck Storla

The Potting Shed Murder by Paula Sutton



6.🗡️ Read a book with one of the following items on the cover: liquor, dagger, knife, paper, or pencil; post the cover OR read a book in which a character is stabbed.
The Falcon Always Wings Twice by Donna Andrews 3/6/26


7. 🌂 Read a book that is in the middle of a series; OR read a book with a blue and/or green cover (at least 50%); post the cover.
Veronica Speedwell #5 of 10: A Murderous Relation by Deanna Raybourn 4/03/26


We Refuse: A Forceful History of Black Resistance by Kellie Carter Jackson

8.🍹Read a book where the MC goes to a bar or restaurant OR read a book with a hat on the cover; post the cover.

Glory Daze: A Glory Broussard Mystery by Danielle Arceneaux


9. 🏭 Read a book that is set in Asia or has a primary character who is Asian; name them OR read a book with a character who is a blue-collar worker; tell us the occupation.
Homicide in the Indian Hills by Erica Ruth Neubauer



10. 💵 Read a book that contains double L's (LL) in the author's name (first or last) or any title word OR read a book in which someone owns a successful business; tell us who.
Savvy Summer is successful owner of Essie's Restaurant.
Savvy Summers and the Sweet Potato Crimes by Sandra Jackson-Opoku 3/12/26

Double LLs in author's name
Danielle Arceneaux, Glory Be 4/6/26


11. ⚾Read a book in which a character plays golf, baseball or another outdoor sport; name the sport OR read a book with the letters A, S and H in the title.(Can be in different words and in any order).


12.☠️ Read a book with a character who has a secret
Bleak House by Charles Dickens 3/25/26


13. ☂️ Read a book whose title contains a word that ends in "ER" OR read a book with an umbrella on the cover (may be beach, patio, rain, parasol); post the cover.


14. 🌂 Read a book that is #6, #8 or #12 in a series (tell us the series and the book's position) OR read a book where the MC is a parent and/or with a character who is a child or youth.
MC, Tess, and her teenage daughter, Gertrude
Buried in a Good Book by Tamara Berry 4/10/26



15. ☔ Read a book that is classified in at least two different genres (list the genres) OR read a book in which a primary character 'handles' a situation in a calm, effective manner; tell us who.


16.☂️ Read a book with a 2 in the total number of pages; post page no. OR read a book set during Spring.
302 pp: Done Gone Wrong by Cathy Pickens


17. 🌂Read a book that takes place (or is published) during or before the 1960s; tell us when OR read a book with fabric on the cover (ex: clothes, tablecloth, curtains); post the cover.
The Mysterious Death of Junetta Plum by Valerie Wilson Wesley - 1920s



18. There are several types of umbrellas on the market, including: Classic, Golf, Inverted, Beach, Patio, Windproof, and Bubble.
⛱️ Read a book by an author whose first and last initials are in one of the types of umbrellas listed; tell us which one. Both initials must be in the same word.

UMBRELLAS, 3/1 – 5/31
18/18 COMPLETE
I'll go the traditional route - one book for each of the 18 tasks

1. ⛱️ Read the 4th book in a series
Death at the Dog Show (Getaway Bay #4), by Grace York, finished 3/20/26 ★★★.5

2. 🌤️ Read a book with a bright, sunny scene on the cover; post the cover
Give Fudge a Chance (Candy-Coated #11), by Nancy Coco, finished 3/19/26 ★★★★


3. ☂️ Read a book with a wealthy female character; name her
Emily : Death Beside the Seaside (Lady Hardcastle #6), by T.E. Kinsey, finished 3/9/26 ★★★★

4. ☔Read a book with a number in the title
Below Zero (Joe Pickett #9), by C.J. Box, finished 3/6/26 ★★★★

5. 👨🏽Read a book set in England
Death at the Manor (Lily Adler #3), by Katharine Schellman, finished 3/3/26 ★★★.5

6. 🗡️ Read a book in which a character is stabbed
Beatrice Ophelia is Flickering Out, by Megan Gerig, finished 3/7/26 ★★★

7. 🌂 Read a book with a blue cover (at least 50%); post the cover
Anxious in Nevada (Midlife Crisis #1), by Diana Xarissa, finished 3/4/26 ★★★★


8. 🍹Read a book with a hat on the cover; post the cover
Death Wasn’t Invited (June’s Journey), by Carlene O’Connor, finished 3/7/26 ★★★.5


9. 🏭 Read a book with a character who is a blue-collar worker; tell us the occupation
home renovations : The Body in the Gravel (Jazzi Zanders #3), by Judi Lynn, finished 3/5/26 ★★★★

10. 💵 Read a book that contains double L's (LL) in any title word
Absence of Mallets (Fixer-Upper #9), by Kate Carlisle, finished 3/12/26 ★★★★

11. ⚾Read a book with the letters A, S and H in the title. (Can be in different words and in any order)
The Dead Shall Not Rest (Dr. Thomas Silkstone #2), by Tessa Harris, finished 3/8/26 ★★★

12. ☠️ Read a book with a character who has a secret (other than being the murderer) AND a book set in a location that starts with a letter in WEAPON; tell us where
Normal, KY : Assailants, Asphalt and Alibis (Camper & Criminals #8), by Tonya Kappes, finished 3/19/26 ★★★.5

13. ☂️ Read a book whose title contains a word that ends in "ER"
The Dream Stalker (Wind River Reservation #3), by Margaret Coel, finished 3/4/36 ★★★★

14. 🌂 Read a book that is #6 in a series (tell us the series and the book's position)
Beer and Loathing (Sloan Krause #6), by Ellie Alexander, finished 3/20/26 ★★★★

15. ☔ Read a book that is classified in at least two different genres (list the genres)
mystery & historical : Murder on Gramercy Park (Gaslight #3), by Victoria Thompson, finished 3/15/26 ★★★★

16. ☂️ Read a book with a 2 in the total number of pages; post page no
282 pages : Tracking Game (Timber Creek K-9 #5), by Margaret Mizushima, finished 3/1/26 ★★★★

17. 🌂Read a book with fabric on the cover (ex: clothes, tablecloth, curtains); post the cover
quilt : Something’s Knot Kosher (Quilting #4), by Mary Marks, finished 3/18/26 ★★★★


18. ⛱️ Read a book by an author whose first and last initials are in one of the types of umbrellas listed (tell us which one). Both initials must be in the same word. {classic / golf / inverted / beach / patio / windproof / bubble]
in BUBBLE : author Lynn Bohart – The Key to Murder (Old Maids of Mercer Island #5), finished 3/29/26 ★★★★

1. Scientists speculate that "sun protecting umbrellas" have been used since the dawn of human civilization. The first use of simply-made palm leaf parasols was three to four thousand year ago in Egypt and Assyria.
⛱️ Read a book with a palm tree on the cover or set in a tropical location OR read the 3rd or 4th book in a series.


2. The umbrella's original purpose was to shade a person from the sun (umbra is Latin for "shade"), a function that is reflected in the word "parasol," (derived from the French parare, "to shield" and sol, "sun") a smaller-sized umbrella used primarily by women.
🌤️ Read a book with a bright, sunny scene on the cover; post the cover.


3. During their first thousand years of life, parasols were viewed as a symbol of wealth and power. Many civilizations practiced a tradition of showcasing the exotic and complexly made parasols of their rulers. From around 1000 BC to 400 AD, small and foldable parasols represented one of the fashion accessories of women in Greece and Rome.
☂️ Read a book in any position from 400 to 1,000 (inclusive) on your TBR (or books 40 to 100 for the underachievers! 😆); tell us the position OR read a book with a wealthy female character; name her.


4. History accords two sources for the water-repelling umbrella. Roman women oiled their paper sunshades creating umbrellas for use in the rain. Other sources report the first waterproofed umbrellas were created in ancient China.
☔Read a book with rainy or stormy weather on the cover; post the cover OR read a book with a number in the title.


5. Until the middle of the 18th century, umbrellas were viewed as a female fashion accessory. The first man who publicly carried an umbrella was Englishman, Jonas Hanway, who endured laughter and scorn before its use became popular. The largest detractors were English coachmen who saw umbrellas as a threat because they derived a good portion of their income from gentlemen who took cabs in order to keep dry on rainy days.
👨🏽Read a book with a main character who is male OR read a book set in England.


6. In nineteenth-century England, specially designed handles that concealed liquor flasks, daggers and knives, small pads and pencils, or other items were in high demand by wealthy gentlemen.
🗡️ Read a book with one of the following items on the cover: liquor, dagger, knife, paper, or pencil; post the cover OR read a book in which a character is stabbed.


7. The umbrella eventually became so popular that by the mid-twentieth century, etiquette dictated that the uniform of the English gentleman include hat, gloves, and umbrella. European fashion demanded that umbrellas must be held in the middle of their shaft, with handle pointing toward the ground. English nobility preferred umbrellas made from blue or green silk.
🌂 Read a book that is in the middle of a series; tell us the book's position in the series (#_ of _) OR read a book with a blue and/or green cover (at least 50%); post the cover.


8. Umbrellas have found their way into many areas of modern life, such as a decoration for exotic cocktails and drinks. The Mexican sombrero (translated as "shade maker") is a hat that serves as a big parasol.
🍹Read a book where the MC goes to a bar or restaurant OR read a book with a hat on the cover; post the cover.


9. The majority of modern umbrellas are made in China which produces over 70% of the global supply. Umbrellas are made by a hand-assembly process that, except for a few critical areas, is performed by manual workers.
🏭 Read a book that is set in Asia or has a primary character who is Asian/Asian ancestry; name them OR read a book with a character who is a blue-collar worker; tell us the occupation.


10. Slightly more than 142 million umbrellas are sold in the United States each year, for an annual market of over 600 million dollars.
💵 Read a book that contains double L's (LL) in the author's name (first or last) or any title word OR read a book in which someone owns a successful business; tell us who.


11. "Stick" umbrella shafts may be wood, steel, fiberglass or aluminum. Fiberglass, common in large golf umbrellas, is preferred for wind resistance. Aluminum is used for lightweight, telescopic models. Wood from ash trees is among the popular choices for a sturdy wood shaft.
⚾Read a book in which a character plays golf, baseball or another outdoor sport; name the sport OR read a book with the letters A, S and H in the title. (Can be in different words and in any order).


12. Umbrellas can be used as offensive and defensive weapons. French President Nicolas Sarkozy was the first to start using a Kevlar coated umbrella as a part of his security measures. The shaft can effectively hide a secret blade or substance. For example, Bulgarian president Georgi Markov was assassinated in 1978 by a KGB agent who carried deadly poison in his modified umbrella.
☠️ Read a book with a character who has a secret (other than being the murderer) OR read a book set in a location that starts with a letter in WEAPON; tell us where.


13. In assembling an umbrella, the ribs and stretchers are first. Ribs run underneath the top (or canopy) of the umbrella; stretchers connect the ribs with the shaft of the umbrella. The stretchers are connected to the shaft with a plastic or metal runner that moves along the shaft when the umbrella is opened or closed.
☂️ Read a book whose title contains a word that ends in "ER" OR read a book with an umbrella on the cover (may be beach, patio, rain, parasol); post the cover.


14. The cover or canopy of the umbrella is hand sewn in individual panels to the ribs. Because each panel has to be shaped to the curve of the canopy, the cover cannot be cut in one piece. The typical rain umbrella has eight panels, although some umbrellas have only six panels (children's umbrellas and parasols) and some have as many as twelve panels.
🌂 Read a book that is #6, #8 or #12 in a series (tell us the series and the book's position) OR read a book where the MC is a parent and/or with a character who is a child or youth.


15. The umbrella handle is connected to the shaft at the end of the process. It can be crafted from a variety of materials; wood, plastic, metal, and rubber are commonly used.
☔ Read a book that is classified in at least two different genres (list the genres) OR read a book in which a primary character 'handles' a situation in a calm, effective manner; tell us who.


16. There are two catch springs in the shaft of each umbrella; these are small pieces of metal that need to be pressed when the umbrella is slid up the shaft to open, and again when the umbrella is slid down the shaft for closing.
☂️ Read a book with a 2 in the total number of pages; post page no. OR read a book set during Spring.


17. The first working "folding umbrella" was introduced in 1969 by Bradford Philips. Modern day umbrellas are made with fabrics that are water-repellant, durable and fold easily. Polyester, pongee, acrylic and nylon are commonly used umbrella fabrics.
🌂Read a book that takes place (or is published) during or before the 1960s; tell us when OR read a book with fabric on the cover (ex: clothes, tablecloth, curtains); post the cover.


18. Umbrellas are classified by design and function, ranging from personal rain protection to large outdoor shade. There are several types of umbrellas on the market, including: Classic, Golf, Inverted, Beach, Patio, Windproof, and Bubble.
⛱️ Read a book by an author whose first and last initials are in one of the types of umbrellas listed; tell us which one. Both initials must be in the same word.
Ex: BeaCh - Connie Berry, A Dream of Death

Umbrellas
3/10/26 - 6/10/26

15/18 completed

1. Scientists speculate that "sun protecting umbrellas" have been used since the dawn of human civilization. The first use of simply-made palm leaf parasols was three to four thousand year ago in Egypt and Assyria.
⛱️ Read a book with a palm tree on the cover or set in a tropical location OR read the 3rd or 4th book in a series.
Murder at the Blueberry Festival 4/24/26


2. The umbrella's original purpose was to shade a person from the sun (umbra is Latin for "shade"), a function that is reflected in the word "parasol," (derived from the French parare, "to shield" and sol, "sun") a smaller-sized umbrella used primarily by women.
🌤️ Read a book with a bright, sunny scene on the cover; post the cover.
Absence of Mallets 3/21/26


3. During their first thousand years of life, parasols were viewed as a symbol of wealth and power. Many civilizations practiced a tradition of showcasing the exotic and complexly made parasols of their rulers. From around 1000 BC to 400 AD, small and foldable parasols represented one of the fashion accessories of women in Greece and Rome.
☂️ Read a book in any position from 400 to 1,000 (inclusive) on your TBR (or books 40 to 100 for the underachievers! 😆); tell us the position OR read a book with a wealthy female character; name her.
Moving is Murder (#50)


4. History accords two sources for the water-repelling umbrella. Roman women oiled their paper sunshades creating umbrellas for use in the rain. Other sources report the first waterproofed umbrellas were created in ancient China.
☔Read a book with rainy or stormy weather on the cover; post the cover OR read a book with a number in the title.


5. Until the middle of the 18th century, umbrellas were viewed as a female fashion accessory. The first man who publicly carried an umbrella was Englishman, Jonas Hanway, who endured laughter and scorn before its use became popular. The largest detractors were English coachmen who saw umbrellas as a threat because they derived a good portion of their income from gentlemen who took cabs in order to keep dry on rainy days.
👨🏽Read a book with a main character who is male OR read a book set in England.
The Lost Bird 4/23/26


6. In nineteenth-century England, specially designed handles that concealed liquor flasks, daggers and knives, small pads and pencils, or other items were in high demand by wealthy gentlemen.
🗡️ Read a book with one of the following items on the cover: liquor, dagger, knife, paper, or pencil; post the cover OR read a book in which a character is stabbed.
A Wonderful Christmas Crime 4/20/26


7. The umbrella eventually became so popular that by the mid-twentieth century, etiquette dictated that the uniform of the English gentleman include hat, gloves, and umbrella. European fashion demanded that umbrellas must be held in the middle of their shaft, with handle pointing toward the ground. English nobility preferred umbrellas made from blue or green silk.
🌂 Read a book that is in the middle of a series; tell us the book's position in the series (#_ of _) OR read a book with a blue and/or green cover (at least 50%); post the cover.
Scone Cold Dead (9/12) 3/12/26


8. Umbrellas have found their way into many areas of modern life, such as a decoration for exotic cocktails and drinks. The Mexican sombrero (translated as "shade maker") is a hat that serves as a big parasol.
🍹Read a book where the MC goes to a bar or restaurant OR read a book with a hat on the cover; post the cover.
Buried in Buttercream 4/8/26


9. The majority of modern umbrellas are made in China which produces over 70% of the global supply. Umbrellas are made by a hand-assembly process that, except for a few critical areas, is performed by manual workers.
🏭 Read a book that is set in Asia or has a primary character who is Asian/Asian ancestry; name them OR read a book with a character who is a blue-collar worker; tell us the occupation.
Death by Bubble Tea


10. Slightly more than 142 million umbrellas are sold in the United States each year, for an annual market of over 600 million dollars.
💵 Read a book that contains double L's (LL) in the author's name (first or last) or any title word OR read a book in which someone owns a successful business; tell us who.
Death of a Rug Lord (Abby owns the Den of Antiquity) 3/18/26


11. "Stick" umbrella shafts may be wood, steel, fiberglass or aluminum. Fiberglass, common in large golf umbrellas, is preferred for wind resistance. Aluminum is used for lightweight, telescopic models. Wood from ash trees is among the popular choices for a sturdy wood shaft.
⚾Read a book in which a character plays golf, baseball or another outdoor sport; name the sport OR read a book with the letters A, S and H in the title. (Can be in different words and in any order).
The Tomb That Ruth Built (baseball) 4/16/26


12. Umbrellas can be used as offensive and defensive weapons. French President Nicolas Sarkozy was the first to start using a Kevlar coated umbrella as a part of his security measures. The shaft can effectively hide a secret blade or substance. For example, Bulgarian president Georgi Markov was assassinated in 1978 by a KGB agent who carried deadly poison in his modified umbrella.
☠️ Read a book with a character who has a secret (other than being the murderer) OR read a book set in a location that starts with a letter in WEAPON; tell us where.
A Crossword To Die For (Newcastle, MA) 3/30/26


13. In assembling an umbrella, the ribs and stretchers are first. Ribs run underneath the top (or canopy) of the umbrella; stretchers connect the ribs with the shaft of the umbrella. The stretchers are connected to the shaft with a plastic or metal runner that moves along the shaft when the umbrella is opened or closed.
☂️ Read a book whose title contains a word that ends in "ER" OR read a book with an umbrella on the cover (may be beach, patio, rain, parasol); post the cover.
The Story Teller 4/2/26


14. The cover or canopy of the umbrella is hand sewn in individual panels to the ribs. Because each panel has to be shaped to the curve of the canopy, the cover cannot be cut in one piece. The typical rain umbrella has eight panels, although some umbrellas have only six panels (children's umbrellas and parasols) and some have as many as twelve panels.
🌂 Read a book that is #6, #8 or #12 in a series (tell us the series and the book's position) OR read a book where the MC is a parent and/or with a character who is a child or youth.
Sealed Off 4/5/26


15. The umbrella handle is connected to the shaft at the end of the process. It can be crafted from a variety of materials; wood, plastic, metal, and rubber are commonly used.
☔ Read a book that is classified in at least two different genres (list the genres) OR read a book in which a primary character 'handles' a situation in a calm, effective manner; tell us who.
Sweet Tea Revenge (Theodosia) 3/29/26


16. There are two catch springs in the shaft of each umbrella; these are small pieces of metal that need to be pressed when the umbrella is slid up the shaft to open, and again when the umbrella is slid down the shaft for closing.
☂️ Read a book with a 2 in the total number of pages; post page no. OR read a book set during Spring.
Double Booked for Death (325 pgs.) 3/24/26


17. The first working "folding umbrella" was introduced in 1969 by Bradford Philips. Modern day umbrellas are made with fabrics that are water-repellant, durable and fold easily. Polyester, pongee, acrylic and nylon are commonly used umbrella fabrics.
🌂Read a book that takes place (or is published) during or before the 1960s; tell us when OR read a book with fabric on the cover (ex: clothes, tablecloth, curtains); post the cover.
Murder at the Mena House (1926) 3/18/26


18. Umbrellas are classified by design and function, ranging from personal rain protection to large outdoor shade. There are several types of umbrellas on the market, including: Classic, Golf, Inverted, Beach, Patio, Windproof, and Bubble.
⛱️ Read a book by an author whose first and last initials are in one of the types of umbrellas listed; tell us which one. Both initials must be in the same word.
Ex: BeaCh - Connie Berry, A Dream of Death
Of Hoaxes and Homicide by Anastasia Hastings 3/15/26

17/18 completed
3/4/26- 6/4-26

DONE 1. ⛱️ Read the 3rd or 4th book in a series.
Final Exam; read 4/11

This is the fourth book of the series.

DONE 2. 🌤️ Read a book with a bright, sunny scene on the cover; post the cover.
Tea & Treachery (Tea by the Sea #1), completed 3/17



3. ☂️ Read a book in any position from 400 to 1,000 (inclusive) on your TBR (or books 40 to 100 for the underachievers! 😆); tell us the position OR read a book with a wealthy female character; name her.


DONE 4. ☔Read a book with a number in the title.
Murder 101, completed 3/16



DONE 5. 👨🏽Read a book set in England.
A Pinch of Poison; completed 3/14



DONE 6. 🗡️ Read a book in which a character is stabbed.
A Halloween Homicide; completed 3/20

Townsperson Peter Hill is murdered with a knife.


DONE 7. 🌂 Read a book with a BLUE and/or green cover (at least 50%); post the cover.
Skate It Till You Make It; completed 3/7 (not a cozy)



DONE 8. 🍹Read a book with a hat on the cover; post the cover.
All Dressed Up and No Place to Haunt, completed 3/10



DONE 9. 🏭 Read a book that has a primary character who is Asian/Asian ancestry; name them.
Murder Lo Mein, completed 3/9
Lana Lee is a Chinese American.



DONE 10. 💵 Read a book in which someone owns a successful business; tell us who.
The Ladybug Jinx; completed 4/2

The character Cecilia Briggs owns The Ladybug Florist

DONE 11. ⚾Read a book with the letters A, S and H in the title. (Can be in different words and in any order).
Death of a Forest Fairy, completed 3/5



DONE 12. ☠️ Read a book set in a location that starts with a letter in WEAPON; tell us where.
Book is set in New York City.
Quick Study; completed 4/1



DONE 13. ☂️ Read a book whose title contains a word that ends in "ER".
Open for Murder; completed 4/6




DONE 14. 🌂 Read a book that is #6, #8 or #12 in a series (tell us the series and the book's position).
Handmade Ho-Ho Homicide, completed 3/14
It is book #8 in the series of Anastasia Pollack Crafting Mysteries)



DONE 15. ☔ Read a book that is classified in at least two different genres (list the genres)
Extracurricular Activities, completed 3/19

This book is listed as Chick-Lit, Cozy Mystery, and Mystery Thriller

DONE 16. ☂️ Read a book with a 2 in the total number of pages; post page no.
A Dark and Twisting Path; completed 3/4
The paperback has 273 pages.


DONE 17. 🌂Read a book with fabric on the cover (clothes); post the cover.
Harriet Tubman: Military Scout and Tenacious Visionary: From Her Roots in Ghana to Her Legacy on the Eastern Shore, completed 3/15 (not a cozy)



DONE 18. ⛱️ Read a book by an author whose first and last initials are in one of the types of umbrellas listed (Bubble); Both initials must be in the same word.
Author is Bethany Blake
Death by Chocolate Lab, completed 3/8

Spring Umbrellas
Duration: 3 months from start

Start: Mar. 11
Progress: 17/18
TASKS:

🌴1. Read a book with a palm tree on the cover.
Exit Wounds by Rutu Modan - Apr. 4


☑️2. 🌤️ Read a book with a bright, sunny scene on the cover; post the cover.
Pet Placement Society by Primo Gallanosa - Mar. 13


🤑3. Read a book with a wealthy female character; name her.
A Kid Like Me: A Graphic Novel by Norm Feuti - Madison McLeery - Mar. 22

4. History accords two sources for the water-repelling umbrella. Roman women oiled their paper sunshades creating umbrellas for use in the rain. Other sources report the first waterproofed umbrellas were created in ancient China.
☔Read a book with rainy or stormy weather on the cover; post the cover OR read a book with a number in the title.

🦸🏼‍♂️5. Read a book with a main character who is male.
Local Man Vol. 1: Heartland by Tim Seeley - Apr. 6

📝6. Read a book with one of the following items on the cover: liquor, dagger, knife, paper, or pencil; post the cover OR read a book in which a character is stabbed.
Yellow Singing Sail: A Memoir of an Only Child in China by Yinfan Huang - Mar. 21


⛸️7. Read a book with a blue and/or green cover (at least 50%); post the cover.
Just Between Us: A Graphic Novel by Adeline Kon - Apr. 5


🎩8. Read a book with a hat on the cover; post the cover.
A Tricky Kind of Magic by Nigel Baines - Mar. 21


🧧9. Read a book that has a primary character who is Asian/Asian ancestry; name them.
The Many Misfortunes of Eugenia Wang by Stan Yan - Eugenia Wang - Mar. 24

👻10. Read a book that contains double L's (LL) in the author's name (first or last) or any title word.
The Old Willis Place: A Ghost Story Graphic Novel by Scott E. Peterson - Apr. 2

🚀11. Read a book with the letters A, S and H in the title. (Can be in different words and in any order).
The First Cat in Space Ate Pizza by Mac Barnett - Mar. 25

🌆12. Read a book set in a location that starts with a letter in WEAPON; tell us where.
Lost and Found: A Heart of the City Collection by Steenz - Philadelphia - Mar. 19

🛶13. Read a book whose title contains a word that ends in "ER".
Howler Reef by Mike Deas - Mar. 24

☑️14. Read a book with a character who is a child or youth.
Operation: Cover-Up by Tate Godwin - Mar. 16

☑️15. Read a book that is classified in at least two different genres (list the genres).
Upside Down: A Vampire Tale by Jess Smart Smiley - Mar. 15

✍🏼16. Read a book with a 2 in the total number of pages; post page no.
Inbetweens by Faith Erin Hicks - 240 pages ar. 23

☑️17. Read a book that takes place (or is published) during or before the 1960s; tell us when.
The Witch's Hand by Nathan Page - take place in 1969 - Mar. 15

18. Umbrellas are classified by design and function, ranging from personal rain protection to large outdoor shade. There are several types of umbrellas on the market, including: Classic, Golf, Inverted, Beach, Patio, Windproof, and Bubble.
⛱️ Read a book by an author whose first and last initials are in one of the types of umbrellas listed; tell us which one. Both initials must be in the same word.
Ex: BeaCh - Connie Berry, A Dream of Death
Off Menu: A Graphic Novel by Oliver Gerlach - Apr. 21 - Oliver Gerlach is in GOlf.

I’m in. Going for 18, from the beginning of March.

10/18


1. Scientists speculate that "sun protecting umbrellas" have been used since the dawn of human civilization. The first use of simply-made palm leaf parasols was three to four thousand year ago in Egypt and Assyria.
⛱️ Read a book with a palm tree on the cover or set in a tropical location OR read the 3rd or 4th book in a series.

is the fourth in the series Aunt Bessie’s Cold Cases

2. 🌤️ Read a book with a bright, sunny scene on the cover; post the cover.



3. During their first thousand years of life, parasols were viewed as a symbol of wealth and power. Many civilizations practiced a tradition of showcasing the exotic and complexly made parasols of their rulers. From around 1000 BC to 400 AD, small and foldable parasols represented one of the fashion accessories of women in Greece and Rome.
☂️ Read a book in any position from 400 to 1,000 (inclusive) on your TBR (or books 40 to 100 for the underachievers! 😆); tell us the position OR read a book with a wealthy female character; name her.

4. History accords two sources for the water-repelling umbrella. Roman women oiled their paper sunshades creating umbrellas for use in the rain. Other sources report the first waterproofed umbrellas were created in ancient China.
☔Read a book with rainy or stormy weather on the cover; post the cover OR read a book with a number in the title.

5. Read a book with a main character who is male.


6. In nineteenth-century England, specially designed handles that concealed liquor flasks, daggers and knives, small pads and pencils, or other items were in high demand by wealthy gentlemen.
🗡️ Read a book with one of the following items on the cover: liquor, dagger, knife, paper, or pencil; post the cover OR read a book in which a character is stabbed.

has both a newspaper and notepaper on the cover.

7. The umbrella eventually became so popular that by the mid-twentieth century, etiquette dictated that the uniform of the English gentleman include hat, gloves, and umbrella. European fashion demanded that umbrellas must be held in the middle of their shaft, with handle pointing toward the ground. English nobility preferred umbrellas made from blue or green silk.
🌂 Read a book that is in the middle of a series; tell us the book's position in the series (#_ of _) OR read a book with a blue and/or green cover (at least 50%); post the cover.



8. Umbrellas have found their way into many areas of modern life, such as a decoration for exotic cocktails and drinks. The Mexican sombrero (translated as "shade maker") is a hat that serves as a big parasol.
🍹Read a book where the MC goes to a bar or restaurant OR read a book with a hat on the cover; post the cover.



9. The majority of modern umbrellas are made in China which produces over 70% of the global supply. Umbrellas are made by a hand-assembly process that, except for a few critical areas, is performed by manual workers.
🏭 Read a book that is set in Asia or has a primary character who is Asian/Asian ancestry; name them OR read a book with a character who is a blue-collar worker; tell us the occupation.

10. Slightly more than 142 million umbrellas are sold in the United States each year, for an annual market of over 600 million dollars.
💵 Read a book that contains double L's (LL) in the author's name (first or last) or any title word OR read a book in which someone owns a successful business; tell us who.

11. "Stick" umbrella shafts may be wood, steel, fiberglass or aluminum. Fiberglass, common in large golf umbrellas, is preferred for wind resistance. Aluminum is used for lightweight, telescopic models. Wood from ash trees is among the popular choices for a sturdy wood shaft.
⚾Read a book in which a character plays golf, baseball or another outdoor sport; name the sport OR read a book with the letters A, S and H in the title. (Can be in different words and in any order).



12. Umbrellas can be used as offensive and defensive weapons. French President Nicolas Sarkozy was the first to start using a Kevlar coated umbrella as a part of his security measures. The shaft can effectively hide a secret blade or substance. For example, Bulgarian president Georgi Markov was assassinated in 1978 by a KGB agent who carried deadly poison in his modified umbrella.
☠️ Read a book with a character who has a secret (other than being the murderer) OR read a book set in a location that starts with a letter in WEAPON; tell us where.

is set in Alpine, Washington.

13. In assembling an umbrella, the ribs and stretchers are first. Ribs run underneath the top (or canopy) of the umbrella; stretchers connect the ribs with the shaft of the umbrella. The stretchers are connected to the shaft with a plastic or metal runner that moves along the shaft when the umbrella is opened or closed.
☂️ Read a book whose title contains a word that ends in "ER" OR read a book with an umbrella on the cover (may be beach, patio, rain, parasol); post the cover.

14. The cover or canopy of the umbrella is hand sewn in individual panels to the ribs. Because each panel has to be shaped to the curve of the canopy, the cover cannot be cut in one piece. The typical rain umbrella has eight panels, although some umbrellas have only six panels (children's umbrellas and parasols) and some have as many as twelve panels.
🌂 Read a book that is #6, #8 or #12 in a series (tell us the series and the book's position) OR read a book where the MC is a parent and/or with a character who is a child or youth.

is the 12th in the series of cruise ship murders.

15. Read a book that is classified in at least two different genres (list the genres).

16. There are two catch springs in the shaft of each umbrella; these are small pieces of metal that need to be pressed when the umbrella is slid up the shaft to open, and again when the umbrella is slid down the shaft for closing.
☂️ Read a book with a 2 in the total number of pages; post page no. OR read a book set during Spring.

17. Read a book that takes place (or is published) during or before the 1960s; tell us when.

is set in 1955.

18. Umbrellas are classified by design and function, ranging from personal rain protection to large outdoor shade. There are several types of umbrellas on the market, including: Classic, Golf, Inverted, Beach, Patio, Windproof, and Bubble.
⛱️ Read a book by an author whose first and last initials are in one of the types of umbrellas listed; tell us which one. Both initials must be in the same word.

Bubble

Am I on time to jump in on this?

1 ✔️Read a book with a palm tree on the cover or set in a tropical location

2 Read a book with a bright, sunny scene on the cover;
✔️post the cover.

3 ✔️read a book with a wealthy female character; Pride and Prejudice
name her: Lady Catherine de Bourgh

4 ✔️Read a book with rainy or stormy weather on the cover;
post the cover Across the Crying Sands

5 ✔️Read a book with a main character who is male.


6 book with one of the following items on the cover:
liquor, dagger, knife, paper, or pencil;
✔️post the cover :


8 ✔️Read a book where the MC goes to a bar or restaurant :
Death of a Green-Eyed Monster

9 ✔️ has a primary character who is Asian/Asian ancestry;
name them ~

10 ✔️Read a book that contains double L's (LL) in the author's name (first or last) Colleen Cambridge

11 ✔️read a book with the letters A, S and H in the title.
(Can be in different words and in any order) A Fashionably French Murder

12 ✔️Read a book with a character who has a secret (other than being the murderer) includes set in a location that starts with a letter in WEAPON;

where? Paris

13 ✔️Read a book whose title contains a word that ends in "ER"
10th Anniversary Edition - Strawberry Cream Cupcake & Murder

14 ✔️Read a book where the MC is a parent and/or with a character who is a child or youth.
The Berlin Apartment

✔️15 Read a book that is classified in at least two different genres (list the genres): Fiction , Mystery and Humour
The Limpopo Academy of Private Detection

16 ✔️OR: read a book set during Spring:
The Spring Begins

17 ✔️Read a book that takes place during the 1960s;

All That Life Can Afford: Reese's Book Club

18 Read a book by an author whose first and last initials are in one of the types of umbrellas listed; tell us which one. Both initials must be in the same word ~ including: Classic, Golf, Inverted, Beach, Patio, Windproof, and Bubble :

✔️classic =Lynn Austin
✔️patio =Amanda Peters
✔️patio =Patrick Taylor
✔️windproof= P.O. Dixon
✔️Inverted= Emily Everett.
✔️bubble= Lynette Eason
✔️Lily Bernard

Finished

UMBRELLAS, 3/1 – 5/31
18/18 COMPLETE
I'll go the traditional route - one book for each of the 18 tasks

1. ⛱️ Read the 4th book in a series
Death at the Dog Show (Getaway Bay #4), by Grace York, finished 3/20/26 ★★★.5

2. 🌤️ Read a book with a bright, sunny scene on the cover; post the cover
Give Fudge a Chance (Candy-Coated #11), by Nancy Coco, finished 3/19/26 ★★★★


3. ☂️ Read a book with a wealthy female character; name her
Emily : Death Beside the Seaside (Lady Hardcastle #6), by T.E. Kinsey, finished 3/9/26 ★★★★

4. ☔Read a book with a number in the title
Below Zero (Joe Pickett #9), by C.J. Box, finished 3/6/26 ★★★★

5. 👨🏽Read a book set in England
Death at the Manor (Lily Adler #3), by Katharine Schellman, finished 3/3/26 ★★★.5

6. 🗡️ Read a book in which a character is stabbed
Beatrice Ophelia is Flickering Out, by Megan Gerig, finished 3/7/26 ★★★

7. 🌂 Read a book with a blue cover (at least 50%); post the cover
Anxious in Nevada (Midlife Crisis #1), by Diana Xarissa, finished 3/4/26 ★★★★


8. 🍹Read a book with a hat on the cover; post the cover
Death Wasn’t Invited (June’s Journey), by Carlene O’Connor, finished 3/7/26 ★★★.5


9. 🏭 Read a book with a character who is a blue-collar worker; tell us the occupation
home renovations : The Body in the Gravel (Jazzi Zanders #3), by Judi Lynn, finished 3/5/26 ★★★★

10. 💵 Read a book that contains double L's (LL) in any title word
Absence of Mallets (Fixer-Upper #9), by Kate Carlisle, finished 3/12/26 ★★★★

11. ⚾Read a book with the letters A, S and H in the title. (Can be in different words and in any order)
The Dead Shall Not Rest (Dr. Thomas Silkstone #2), by Tessa Harris, finished 3/8/26 ★★★

12. ☠️ Read a book with a character who has a secret (other than being the murderer) AND a book set in a location that starts with a letter in WEAPON; tell us where
Normal, KY : Assailants, Asphalt and Alibis (Camper & Criminals #8), by Tonya Kappes, finished 3/19/26 ★★★.5

13. ☂️ Read a book whose title contains a word that ends in "ER"
The Dream Stalker (Wind River Reservation #3), by Margaret Coel, finished 3/4/36 ★★★★

14. 🌂 Read a book that is #6 in a series (tell us the series and the book's position)
Beer and Loathing (Sloan Krause #6), by Ellie Alexander, finished 3/20/26 ★★★★

15. ☔ Read a book that is classified in at least two different genres (list the genres)
mystery & historical : Murder on Gramercy Park (Gaslight #3), by Victoria Thompson, finished 3/15/26 ★★★★

16. ☂️ Read a book with a 2 in the total number of pages; post page no
282 pages : Tracking Game (Timber Creek K-9 #5), by Margaret Mizushima, finished 3/1/26 ★★★★

17. 🌂Read a book with fabric on the cover (ex: clothes, tablecloth, curtains); post the cover
quilt : Something’s Knot Kosher (Quilting #4), by Mary Marks, finished 3/18/26 ★★★★


18. ⛱️ Read a book by an author whose first and last initials are in one of the types of umbrellas listed (tell us which one). Both initials must be in the same word. {classic / golf / inverted / beach / patio / windproof / bubble]
in BUBBLE : author Lynn Bohart – The Key to Murder (Old Maids of Mercer Island #5), finished 3/29/26 ★★★★

Wow! That's fast. Congrats Barb!

Thanks, Nell :)

1. Scientists speculate that "sun protecting umbrellas" have been used since the dawn of human civilization. The first use of simply-made palm leaf parasols was three to four thousand year ago in Egypt and Assyria.
⛱️ Read a book with a palm tree on the cover or set in a tropical location OR read the 3rd or 4th book in a series.


2. The umbrella's original purpose was to shade a person from the sun (umbra is Latin for "shade"), a function that is reflected in the word "parasol," (derived from the French parare, "to shield" and sol, "sun") a smaller-sized umbrella used primarily by women.
🌤️ Read a book with a bright, sunny scene on the cover; post the cover.


3. During their first thousand years of life, parasols were viewed as a symbol of wealth and power. Many civilizations practiced a tradition of showcasing the exotic and complexly made parasols of their rulers. From around 1000 BC to 400 AD, small and foldable parasols represented one of the fashion accessories of women in Greece and Rome.
☂️ Read a book in any position from 400 to 1,000 (inclusive) on your TBR (or books 40 to 100 for the underachievers! 😆); tell us the position OR read a book with a wealthy female character; name her.


4. History accords two sources for the water-repelling umbrella. Roman women oiled their paper sunshades creating umbrellas for use in the rain. Other sources report the first waterproofed umbrellas were created in ancient China.
☔Read a book with rainy or stormy weather on the cover; post the cover OR read a book with a number in the title.

Public Anchovy #1


5. Until the middle of the 18th century, umbrellas were viewed as a female fashion accessory. The first man who publicly carried an umbrella was Englishman, Jonas Hanway, who endured laughter and scorn before its use became popular. The largest detractors were English coachmen who saw umbrellas as a threat because they derived a good portion of their income from gentlemen who took cabs in order to keep dry on rainy days.
👨🏽Read a book with a main character who is male OR read a book set in England.


6. In nineteenth-century England, specially designed handles that concealed liquor flasks, daggers and knives, small pads and pencils, or other items were in high demand by wealthy gentlemen.
🗡️ Read a book with one of the following items on the cover: liquor, dagger, knife, paper, or pencil; post the cover OR read a book in which a character is stabbed.

The Devil in the Details


7. The umbrella eventually became so popular that by the mid-twentieth century, etiquette dictated that the uniform of the English gentleman include hat, gloves, and umbrella. European fashion demanded that umbrellas must be held in the middle of their shaft, with handle pointing toward the ground. English nobility preferred umbrellas made from blue or green silk.
🌂 Read a book that is in the middle of a series; tell us the book's position in the series (#_ of _) OR read a book with a blue and/or green cover (at least 50%); post the cover.



8. Umbrellas have found their way into many areas of modern life, such as a decoration for exotic cocktails and drinks. The Mexican sombrero (translated as "shade maker") is a hat that serves as a big parasol.
🍹Read a book where the MC goes to a bar or restaurant OR read a book with a hat on the cover; post the cover.


9. The majority of modern umbrellas are made in China which produces over 70% of the global supply. Umbrellas are made by a hand-assembly process that, except for a few critical areas, is performed by manual workers.
🏭 Read a book that is set in Asia or has a primary character who is Asian/Asian ancestry; name them OR read a book with a character who is a blue-collar worker; tell us the occupation.


10. Slightly more than 142 million umbrellas are sold in the United States each year, for an annual market of over 600 million dollars.
💵 Read a book that contains double L's (LL) in the author's name (first or last) or any title word OR read a book in which someone owns a successful business; tell us who.


11. "Stick" umbrella shafts may be wood, steel, fiberglass or aluminum. Fiberglass, common in large golf umbrellas, is preferred for wind resistance. Aluminum is used for lightweight, telescopic models. Wood from ash trees is among the popular choices for a sturdy wood shaft.
⚾Read a book in which a character plays golf, baseball or another outdoor sport; name the sport OR read a book with the letters A, S and H in the title. (Can be in different words and in any order).


12. Umbrellas can be used as offensive and defensive weapons. French President Nicolas Sarkozy was the first to start using a Kevlar coated umbrella as a part of his security measures. The shaft can effectively hide a secret blade or substance. For example, Bulgarian president Georgi Markov was assassinated in 1978 by a KGB agent who carried deadly poison in his modified umbrella.
☠️ Read a book with a character who has a secret (other than being the murderer) OR read a book set in a location that starts with a letter in WEAPON; tell us where.


13. In assembling an umbrella, the ribs and stretchers are first. Ribs run underneath the top (or canopy) of the umbrella; stretchers connect the ribs with the shaft of the umbrella. The stretchers are connected to the shaft with a plastic or metal runner that moves along the shaft when the umbrella is opened or closed.
☂️ Read a book whose title contains a word that ends in "ER" OR read a book with an umbrella on the cover (may be beach, patio, rain, parasol); post the cover.


14. The cover or canopy of the umbrella is hand sewn in individual panels to the ribs. Because each panel has to be shaped to the curve of the canopy, the cover cannot be cut in one piece. The typical rain umbrella has eight panels, although some umbrellas have only six panels (children's umbrellas and parasols) and some have as many as twelve panels.
🌂 Read a book that is #6, #8 or #12 in a series (tell us the series and the book's position) OR read a book where the MC is a parent and/or with a character who is a child or youth.


15. The umbrella handle is connected to the shaft at the end of the process. It can be crafted from a variety of materials; wood, plastic, metal, and rubber are commonly used.
☔ Read a book that is classified in at least two different genres (list the genres) OR read a book in which a primary character 'handles' a situation in a calm, effective manner; tell us who.


16. There are two catch springs in the shaft of each umbrella; these are small pieces of metal that need to be pressed when the umbrella is slid up the shaft to open, and again when the umbrella is slid down the shaft for closing.
☂️ Read a book with a 2 in the total number of pages; post page no. OR read a book set during Spring.


17. The first working "folding umbrella" was introduced in 1969 by Bradford Philips. Modern day umbrellas are made with fabrics that are water-repellant, durable and fold easily. Polyester, pongee, acrylic and nylon are commonly used umbrella fabrics.
🌂Read a book that takes place (or is published) during or before the 1960s; tell us when OR read a book with fabric on the cover (ex: clothes, tablecloth, curtains); post the cover.


18. Umbrellas are classified by design and function, ranging from personal rain protection to large outdoor shade. There are several types of umbrellas on the market, including: Classic, Golf, Inverted, Beach, Patio, Windproof, and Bubble.
⛱️ Read a book by an author whose first and last initials are in one of the types of umbrellas listed; tell us which one. Both initials must be in the same word.
Ex: BeaCh - Connie Berry, A Dream of Death