December Interview

Moab (mother of all boys) is one of our oldest members (years spent as a member, not years on earth)--and one of our most faithful attenders. Thanks, Moab,  for answering some questions during this busy time.

• We've read a lot of books over the years. What book(s) are you especially glad you read and why?

It's hard to narrow this one down for me - we've read so many wonderful books!  A few that stand out are The Alchemist,  These Is My Words, The Long Walk, and To Kill a Mockingbird. 

The Alchemist really affected me, particularly after the discussion.  Ambi was so passionate about it, and about following your dreams, that it really hit home to me.

These is My Words is now one of my all-time favorite books - I loved it!

The Long Walk was another story that stayed with me.  I've actually really enjoyed the historical books we've read, especially ones that are true stories.

To Kill A Mockingbird - well, I picked this one because I had always wanted to read it, but had never gotten around to it.  What a great book! 

One other series that I read because of book group, but that we never discussed - Harry Potter.  I remember learning about the series when only 2 of the books were out.  Sereia (mermaid in Portuguese) had brought them to book group and told us all how wonderful they were.  She was in a book club of some kind where she could get them for a great deal, so many of us ordered them to try them out.  Now, of course, I own them all, have read them multiple times, and have a family who enjoys them too!  (And if you've never listened to them on CD, you should - Jim Dale is a wonderful reader!)

•  Recall one of the most memorable discussions that we’ve had.

This one actually happened pretty soon after I joined the book group - in 1997.  The book we had read was Ladder of Years by Anne Tyler.  It's the story of a woman who runs away from her family while on vacation.  There were some pretty strong feelings in the group about the story.  At the time, I had 2 children (my oldest was almost 4) and I had no sympathy for the main character.  I REALLY disliked the book!  I remember a few members of the group defending her, and I just didn't get it.  HOWEVER, now that time has passed, and I have 5 children from 16 down to 7, some days I can definitely relate to that character!  Perspectives change over time, that's for sure.

• Where is your favorite place to read?

I have a chair in my living room that is perfect - it's made to fit in a corner.  It is short, with a huge ottman.  It's not the prettiest chair,  but I love sinking into it and enjoying a good book.

• What do you like to eat/drink while reading?

Nothing!  I am so clumsy and messy that I would ruin every book I read!

•  Besides reading, what is your favorite way to spend your time?

Is there anything to do besides reading? Seriously, I enjoy singing.  I sing in a community choir called The Wasatch Chorale and we rehearse every Wednesday night.  I also enjoy crocheting (which I just learned to do this fall from my mom - finally, right mom?) and playing with my rubber stamp collection.

• With all your boys, how do make time for reading?

When my children were small and took regular naps in the afternoon, I got in the habit of taking some time for myself starting about 1:00 on.  Even now that my kids are all in school all day (which is GREAT!), I still see that time as sacred.  So, usually after lunch, I take about an hour to read and/or power nap (Yes, I am a napper - although, my naps are usually only about 15 minutes long.)   I also read a lot when I go to bed at night. I've been known to completely ignore my children and other distractions when I get involved in a good book, too!

•  What has kept you coming to book group all these years?

I absolutely love our book group and hate to miss it.  It is a such a great opportunity to read books I would never have picked up off the shelf otherwise.  Our discussions are sometimes a free-for-all even requiring hand-raising for some.  :-)   Plus, with our group of women, it is always a joy to go.  I have never regretted going to book group - and I always laugh!

• Tell us something about yourself that might surprise us.

            It is hard for me to try new things.  I often have to talk myself into it, but rarely regret it.  I guess I'm really just a big chicken! One of my favorite TV shows is "The Biggest Loser" - and my kids are hooked too! I have read the Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer more than once.

Twilight more than once? Who would've guessed? In fact, that's a good question for everyone. Do you read books more than once? If so, which ones?

Christmas Book Contest

Jane, the owner of the Bungalow, hosted a lovely luncheon for the READ book review group last Thursday. She even cooked for us! J. Fife reviewed some of her favorite Christmas stories. She challenged us to write a list of Christmas stories that we love. Here are three of mine:

Humphrey's First Christmas by Carol Heyer

We have all hear the story of the three wise men, who brought their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to the baby Jesus. But what about the camels who carried them? Here is the imaginative story of Humphrey the camel and his long, cold journey to Bethlehem. In addition to an engaging text and gorgeous, whimsical artwork, this story reminds readers of the importance of Christmas and the true meaning of gift-giving.

The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey by Susan Wojciechowski

Jonathan Toomey is the best woodcarver in the valley. He is a gruff, cold man - but no one is aware of the grief he has for the family he lost years ago. Then one day in early winter, the widow McDowell comes to call. Would Mr Toomey carve a set of nativity figures for her son Thomas in time for Christmas? When, reluctantly, he agrees, Jonathan Toomey's Christmas miracle begins.

Christmas Day in the Morning by Pearl S. Buck

Rob wants to get his father something special for Christmas this year -- something that shows how much he really loves him. But it's Christmas Eve, and he doesn't have much money to spend. What could he possibly get? Suddenly, Rob thinks of the best gift of all.

To receive a free Christmas book--another one of my favorites--just reply to this post, telling us some of your favorite Christmas books.

Book Lover Gift Ideas

Check out these ideas for the fellow book lovers in your life:

"Open the pages of conversation about today's favorite books. These compelling book club conversation questions create the starting point for discussions about plot, setting, character, dramatic themes and more. Great for energizing book clubs, or as a unique gift idea for avid readers, clever friends, conspiring colleagues, or your next dinner party host."

In the Book Lover's Gift Box Set, "each package includes a bookmark, gold frame magnet, single deck playing cards, box set of 10 assorted textured cards with matching envelopes and a set of 12 assorted adhesive bookplates. All items packaged in a beautiful rose collage gift box."

"These ornamental wooden houses use books and imagery from classical and popular literature to capture a past era in American culture. The classic classic To Kill A Mockingbird house, features a twig perch, Gregory Peck movie poster and excerpts of the story as siding."

Know someone who likes to read in the tub? Then this Aquala Bathtub Caddy might be perfect for [them]. It’s made from bamboo (a highly renewable resource), and has a fold-away book support."

"Opening a book is a passage to discovery. Our charming book-shaped locket is the perfect gift for avid readers, students, and teachers."

"Make a splash with this vibrant red READ umbrella. It has a 42" arc and an automatic open with a matching plastic handle and nylon sleeve."

"Show off your love of reading with our smart new READ Book Tote."

"Each of these delicate paper book earrings was made by a skilled Himalayan artisan.

"This reading-themed Whimsical Watch is the perfect gift for the bibliophile in your life, with miniatures of books, a pair of glasses, and coffee, on a background of a library."

 "This happy-woman-with-a-book is a beautiful mouse pad, and a way to remind yourself of the joy of books while you work."

"With this kit you can create your own unique concrete word stones. Mix up some concrete, pour it into the form, and use the press in letters to make words."

"How about a light-switch plate with an image of a shelf of books on it?"

"The calendar that keeps you reading."