Book Club - see first post for who's choosing the book for which month

[pabbers]

Book list record




Chosen by


Read by


Discuss


Book


Author


Genre




RoastLamb


14 Nov


Nov/Dec


Teatime for the traditionally built


McCall Smith


Lady 'tecs




HFW


23 Jan


Jan/Feb


Think of a Number


Verdon


Crime/mystery




Linda


19 Feb


20 Feb >


The Book of Tomorrow


Ahern


Mystery




Pabbers


Mar 31


1 Apr >


Life Isn't All Ha Ha Hee Hee


Syel


Humour




MurrayA1


May15


May 16>


A Tiny Bit Marvellous


French


Humour




PatMoren


Jun 30


Jul 1 >


Kings Dragon





Sci-Fi




SallyD


Aug 16


Aug 17>


The Magic Apple Tree


Hill


Autobiography
























Chosen by

Finish by


Discuss


Title


Author


Genre




RoastLamb

Sep 30

Oct 1-Nov 14

Mistress of Nothing

Pullinger

Fiction



Hfwardhouse

Nov 15

Nov 16-Dec30

Room

Donohue

Fiction



Linda

Dec 31

Jan 1 - Feb 14

Palace Walk

Naguib Mahfouz

Fact?



Pabbers

Feb 14

Feb 15 - Mar 30

50 shades of grey





MurrayA1

Mar 31

1 April - 14 May

Something for the Weekend

Pauline McGlynn




PatMoren

May 15

15 May - 29 June

The Forbidden Queen

Anne O'Brien







Chosen by

Finish by


Discuss


Title


Author


Genre




RoastLamb

June 30

July 1 - Aug 15

The Postmistress

Sarah Blake

Fiction



Hfwardhouse

Aug 16

Aug 17 - Sep 30

11.22.63
Stephen King
Fiction


Linda
Sep 30

Oct 1 - Nov 14

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry
Rachel Joyce
Fiction



Nov 14

Nov 15 - Dec 31







Dec 31

Jan 1 - Feb 14







Feb 14

15 Feb - 31 Mar







31 Mar

[Linda]

I agree. All of his books are like that.
Have you read any of the 44 Scotland Street ones? The characters are so well painted even if exaggerated.


BTW do you have to set questions for your book club? I've often fancied joining one but always been put off by the fact that I'm not a fast reader. I only get the chance to read for about 15-20mins at bedtime so wouldn't be confident of finishing a book in a month. Otherwise wondered if it might be worth having a cyber bookclub on here?

I read each of the Ladies' Detective Agency books as they came out, and loved them. Then there seemed quite a wait until the last one, and I haven't bought it as I seem to have lost the interest now. I've also read a couple of his other books which were also very good.

[RoastLamb]

I've read from all of his series. They're all good. I like his jaunty optimistic writing.

I've been in two book clubs. The first one was quite strict and we did do questions and also scrapbooking pages (which was fun). The second was way more loosey goosey with no formal structure. The third one I've just joined so I don't know as yet. Am going on the 17th for first meeting.

Anyway, I'd love to participate in a cyber book club. We nearly tried it a few years ago but it fizzled. The new McCall Smith would actually be a great place to start.

[pabbers]

I've read from all of his series. They're all good. I like his jaunty optimistic writing.

I've been in two book clubs. The first one was quite strict and we did do questions and also scrapbooking pages (which was fun). The second was way more loosey goosey with no formal structure. The third one I've just joined so I don't know as yet. Am going on the 17th for first meeting.

Anyway, I'd love to participate in a cyber book club. We nearly tried it a few years ago but it fizzled. The new McCall Smith would actually be a great place to start.

Do you fancy setting it up RL, as you have book club experience? Which is the new MS book?

[RoastLamb]

Yup. Who'd like to be involved? Pabbers and myself for starters. Linda? Anyone else?

[Linda]

If it's a McCall Smith book I could probably join in as they are so quick to read. Which book is it? I'll have to go and get it.

[pabbers]

I'm not at all sure what his latest is - this is his website http://www.alexandermccallsmith.co.uk/home/

[RoastLamb]

I will check it out tomorrow. Bit tired right now.

[RoastLamb]

I'm not at all sure what his latest is - this is his website http://www.alexandermccallsmith.co.uk/home/

His latest No. 1 Detective Agency title is The Saturday Big Tent Wedding Party. Shall we do that one? I just checked Amazon and it's in pb and trade pb and available?

BTW: great website!

[pabbers]

Thanks, RL. Sounds good - I'm in. Are there any rules of thumb - what do we do?

[RoastLamb]

We should give ourselves a month to read. Then we can discuss what we thought about it on here. Maybe prepare a few questions for each other. Some publishers prepare reading guides for some of their authors which include a Q&A with the author and questions regarding the work. So that's something to consider for future titles.

[hfwardhouse]

I'd like to participate but I'm in the middle of reading through the Sue Grafton series - up to P. I'd prefer not to have to buy a book either ... bit hard up at the moment :shamed: .... but I'll have a look to see if there's a cheap version for the kindle and then I'd be happy to join in.

Edit - just checked and it's £8.49 so count me out for this one - haven't read any of his yet anyway - think I may have them for the kindle too so will have a look and play catch up!

[RoastLamb]

Wow that's steep. Coz it's in paperback and shouldn't it be cheaper than that? Never mind, Jane you can choose a title for next month if you want.

[pabbers]

Should we maybe start a separate thread called book club so that our discussions are coherent and others don't feel they're intruding? Also, might encourage others to join in as it will stand out more? Will buy this over the weekend. Off to Portugal next Thursday for 12 days so should be able to keep up the first month!

[RoastLamb]

Yes, I'll start it altho' it looks like just you and me - for the first month anyway. Jane can pick a title she already has next month. Don't know about Linda as yet.

[Linda]

I'll try to buy the book this weekend.

[RoastLamb]

I'll try to buy the book this weekend.

:cheer: :cheer: :cheer:

[RoastLamb]

Listen, I just looked it up on amazon.uk and it's not been released in paperback as yet so I think we should try a different book - we should always go for paperbacks rather than hardcovers. Maybe the Teatime for the Traditionally Built? Pabbers, you said this was on your list to read, correct?

[pabbers]

Listen, I just looked it up on amazon.uk and it's not been released in paperback as yet so I think we should try a different book - we should always go for paperbacks rather than hardcovers. Maybe the Teatime for the Traditionally Built? Pabbers, you said this was on your list to read, correct?

Wow - yes please............I've just finished it so can't fail to keep up..............:laugh: Seriously though - would that be ok. Or there's the next book in the series The Double Comfort Safari Club if that would suit? Hope Linda doesn't dash out and buy the hardback before reading this! :sad: Just checked and the DCSC is £4.09 for us in the UK on Amazon which is fine.

[Linda]

I almost never buy hardbacks! Only if it's a book I've been waiting for for ages, such as the fourth book onwards of the HP series and Rafa's book. I rather like the sound of Teatime for the Traditionally Built and I haven't read it yet. I prefer to read a series of books in the right order - but I may have missed several as the last one I read was 'The Full Cupboard of Life' - it seemed to me that he had run out of ideas in that book so I didn't enjoy it as much as the earlier ones, and that's why I stopped buying them.

[hfwardhouse]

I've got to go to the library to pick something up so I could have a look and see if any of the ones you're suggesting are there .... sorry for being a skinflint and all that but needs must and I've got loads of freebies on my Kindle to read ;)

[hfwardhouse]

A new thread for all the book club related posts and chat and indepth discussion when we get that far!

Have copied all the posts over now .... :big grin:

[RoastLamb]

OK, so we're going for Teatime for the Traditionally Built by Alexander McCall Smith for our first book.

Amazon details. (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Tea-Time-Traditionally-Built-Detective/dp/034911997X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1318635813&sr=1-1)

AMS' website page on the book. (http://www.alexandermccallsmith.co.uk/books/no-1-ladies-detective-agency/tea-time-for-the-traditionally-built/)

We shall reconvene a month from now to discuss. Bring some questions. I'll provide some refreshments.

[pabbers]

OK, so we're going for Teatime for the Traditionally Built by Alexander McCall Smith for our first book.

Amazon details. (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Tea-Time-Traditionally-Built-Detective/dp/034911997X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1318635813&sr=1-1)

AMS' website page on the book. (http://www.alexandermccallsmith.co.uk/books/no-1-ladies-detective-agency/tea-time-for-the-traditionally-built/)

We shall reconvene a month from now to discuss. Bring some questions. I'll provide some refreshments.

I shall look forward to it thanks..........mine's a large one (liquids or solids!) :rolling:

I may have to re-read the book as senility is definitely setting in! At least I can now start another book in the interim, as I've been chomping at the bit the last couple of days without knowing what we'd choose and having finished TTfor the TB. Didn't want to start a new book in case we chose something I hadn't read.

What sort of questions do people discuss usually - in general terms? Characters? Plot? Writing?

[RoastLamb]

At my own book clubs we first give the book a vote out of ten on how much we liked it. Then we just go through the bits we did and didn't like (or worked). I remember doing D.H. Lawrence's Sons and Lovers and we all remarked at how old-fashioned the writing style felt and how nowadays a lot of his writing would have been edited out because he really did go on and on. It was quite fascinating comparing his style to a more modern work. Basically, this is informal so we can talk about anything - plot, characters, writing. I'm excited. I think this will be cool!

[hfwardhouse]

:big grin: I shall endeavour to visit the library in the next few days .... I'll be slightly cross if they don't have it though :grrr:

I'm assuming I can dip into AMS at any stage of the run cos I've not read any and don't want to be lost before we start!

[pabbers]

Well the books do stand alone although the characters are introduced and developed along the way but you shouldn't be lost and he does sometimes repeat himself to fill in background (maybe for the uninitiated). Oops - almost straying into premature discussion there!

Yes I'm excited too RL.........something to get the old grey matter working a bit more!

[Linda]

I bought Teatime for the Traditionally Built today. :) Although I'm in the middle of reading another book, I had a quick read of the first chapter and immediately remembered the charm of these books (despite an annoying typo on page 10).

I am in the middle of reading The Other Boleyn Girl which was one of the secondhand books I bought at the doctor's surgery, and which my daughter Caz suggested I get as she liked the film (I haven't seen it). It's not a book I would have chosen for myself, but it's rather interesting to contrast the different viewpoint from that in Wolf Hall which is about the same events, though you would hardly recognise them as the same! Wolf Hall is written from the point of view of Thomas Cromwell and so concentrates mainly on all the political manoeuvring whilst The Other Boleyn Girl is written from the point of view of Anne's sister and concentrates only on what the women of the court would have seen - they wouldn't have been involved in politcal meetings. Rather like in Jane Austen's books where you only see things that a woman could see; she never tells of what the men discuss after the women have left the dinner table, for example (although the style of writing is in no way at all comparable to the great Jane Austen - in fact I have been irritated by grammatical errors). Of the two books I much preferred Wolf Hall.

[pabbers]

Well done Linda - charm is exactly the right word. Can't see a typo in my edition..........?

[RoastLamb]

Haven't bought mine yet but will check as soon as I do. :rolling:

My book club here is tomorrow night and I still haven't finished the book. :eek:

[pabbers]

Haven't bought mine yet but will check as soon as I do. :rolling:

My book club here is tomorrow night and I still haven't finished the book. :eek:

I could lend you a candle?

[hfwardhouse]

:laugh:

[RoastLamb]

:lol:

JUST finished! I will report back tomorrow night after my first meeting. Am really nervous. Luckily there is a reader's guide in the back of the book - YAY!

[Sallydaisy]

Very nice avatar Roasty!!!
:thumbup:

[RoastLamb]

Yeah, Andy does look awfully nice in red. :drool:

[RoastLamb]

My new book club turned out really well. I felt very comfortable straight away. One of the book editors I used to work with is a member so I knew her and then my hairdresser as well (who'd invited me in the first place) The other ladies are all teachers. Lovely bunch of women and we had a good natter and laugh. I picked the book for November: Requiem by Frances Itani (she's Canadian) and it's about the Canadian Japanese internment during the second world war in British Columbia. And I'm hosting it at my house.

Still haven't bought our book club selection. Will go this week and buy both. All the ladies in my club have Kobos - I was the only one with an actual real book. :rolling:

[hfwardhouse]

Went to the library today and had to order the book .... they didn't have it ..... typical!

[RoastLamb]

Oh no! :crying: When will it come in?

I just ordered it and my other book club book from Amazon. Waiting.

[hfwardhouse]

Not sure Fiona - she didn't think it'd be too long - they have several copies in the Council system so they'll email me when it comes in - hopefully it'll be here in time!

[Linda]

OK I've read it. I'm going to read another book now but I'll read it again before we start discussing it (although I think my comments will mainly be about the whole series of books rather than this one in particular - they are all so similar).

[hfwardhouse]

I haven't read any of them yet!

[RoastLamb]

Good point, Linda. We should talk about the themes that run through the series. Like superstition, etc.

[RoastLamb]

Both of my book club books arrived this morning. Can't wait to get stuck in. Jane, let me know when your library gets the book in for you.

[hfwardhouse]

Will do Fiona .... no word yet :sad:

[hfwardhouse]

Email received - book at the library - now all I have to do is find the time to go and pick it up :rolleyes: :rolling: .... do we have a deadline date for when it has to be read by?

[RoastLamb]

Two weeks from now would be long enough. Nov. 9th.

[hfwardhouse]

OK - I'd better get a move on then - away all day tomorrow but I'll be in town on Saturday so should manage to pick it up before or after my first aid course :eek: .... failing that it'll be next week before I can pick it up - the library is 20 miles away ;)

[RoastLamb]

It's a slim tome. :rolling: so it shouldn't take long to read it - once you get your mitts on it. If not, we can always extend the deadline.

[hfwardhouse]

Book picked up and have started reading ..... :big grin:

[RoastLamb]

Oh no, still haven't started. Better get my skates on. Reading Peter James Dead Man's Grip at the mo and it's just too "gripping".

[hfwardhouse]

Oh I love Peter James - wonder if I've read that one ....

[patmoren]

Would be interested in joining in with this when I am not so challenged. Would it be OK not to be at the inaugural read? Jane and I have lots of books the same on the Kindle!!

[MurrayAOne]

What is the name of the book up for discussion when read?

[hfwardhouse]

Would be interested in joining in with this when I am not so challenged. Would it be OK not to be at the inaugural read? Jane and I have lots of books the same on the Kindle!!

Absolutely and you'll be very welcome when you've got time :)


What is the name of the book up for discussion when read?

It's Tea Time for the Traditionally Built by Alexander McCall Smith (No 1 Ladies Detective Agency series)

[MurrayAOne]

Righto thanks. I shall give it a go.

[RoastLamb]

Jane is picking the next book so, Pat, that should work out well for you.

Welcome MurrayAOne. There is a couple of weeks before we start discussing.

[hfwardhouse]

Jane is picking the next book so, Pat, that should work out well for you.

I am?! Ooooh ..... I shall have to have a think about that one :red devil: ;)

[RoastLamb]

I am?! Ooooh ..... I shall have to have a think about that one :red devil: ;)

Sorry, I thought we'd agreed on that ages ago when you said you had lots of books on your kindle already. :shamed:

[hfwardhouse]

Sorry, I thought we'd agreed on that ages ago when you said you had lots of books on your kindle already. :shamed:

I think I do vaguely remember something .... sorry, just being mischievous ;)

[pabbers]

Yoo hoo - back from hols and officially drumming my fingers while you lot finish the book :big grin: Meanwhile I read Jo Nesbo's Redbreast whilst on hols and have just started A Clash of Kings which is the second book in the Songs of Ice and Fire series (A Game of Thrones was on tv) by George RR Martin.

[RoastLamb]

I'm nearly finished Tea Time. We can start discussing in a few days' time. Can't wait.

[hfwardhouse]

I'm not even half way through yet - sorry - been busy and this week's not looking much better - I'm reading as fast as I can!

[RoastLamb]

Don't worry, we'll wait for you - and MurrayAOne as well. I think Pabbers and Linda are finished.

[Linda]

I've read 3 more books since then - so I'd better quickly read it through again once everyone's ready.

[RoastLamb]

I have to start my book for my real life book club on Nov. 21st. :eek: It's quite a thick book.

[Linda]

What book is it?

[RoastLamb]

Frances Itani's Requiem. She's a Canadian author and I don't think she's known outside of Canada much. It's about the Canadian-Japanese relations during WWII.

[Linda]

Never heard of it or her. Let me know what it's like.

[pabbers]

Yep - I'd finished it before we decided that was going to be the first read.......hope I can remember enough to contribute. Will do my best! Don't spoil it for yourself by rushing it Jane - it needs to be taken at a gently leisurely pace like the whole atmosphere of Africa in the books.

[RoastLamb]

Leisurely pace really sums it up. That's one of the things I really want to discuss.

MurrayAOne hasn't started either so we have at least a week I expect. No rush, though.

[hfwardhouse]

That's good - I'm away this weekend so may have more time for reading .... but then again I may not - depends on what we're doing!

[hfwardhouse]

I've finished it :)

[RoastLamb]

Me too - last night. I've made a list of things to discuss. Will put it up later this weekend. MurrayAOne just bought it yesterday so it may take her a few days to read still.

[RoastLamb]

OK, so I've compiled a list of themes/plot points/character insights. I'd be interested to know if you guys have any more that didn't strike me and if you can elaborate on any of them.

The book Tea Time for the Traditionally Built is written by Scottish Edinburgh-based author Alexander McCall Smith and revolves around the female character of Precious Ramotswe who owns and runs the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency in Gabarone, Botswana. I believe it's the tenth installment of this series so as far as the main characters go it's quite well developed.

Other key characters include Mma Ramotswe's assistant and fellow detective Mma Makutsi; Mma Ramotswe's husband Mr J.L.B. Matekoni (who runs a car mechanic business); Mma Makutsi's fiance Phuti Radiphuti (who runs a furniture store) and her nemesis Violet Sephotho; the two car mechanics employed by Mr Makoni (Charlie and Fanwell) and the two children fostered by Mma Ramotswe and her husband (Puso and Motholeli).

Mma Ramotswe is hired by the owner of a football club called the Kalahari Swoopers to investigate why they are losing so much.

Other storylines include Mma's tiny white van which she desperately wants to keep but has to face facts that it is "dying" and needs to be replaced. Also, Violet Sephotho - whom Mma Makusi loathes - has taken a sales job at her fiance's furniture store and Mma Makusi is worried Violet wants to get her claws into her fiance.

[RoastLamb]

To continue...

Things I've noticed about this series and this particular book itself:

Pace is very leisurely. I've noticed this in all of his books, not just this series. The actual detecting part is quite slight, almost incidental and secondary. The author is far more interested in his characters and the setting.

Africa. Botswana in particular.

Men vs women. Seems to be a very sexist society.

Politeness in society. Old fashioned? Mma Ramotswe always refers to her husband by his full title, very formal. Mma Ramtoswe also seems very diplomatic in all her dealings with people.

Poverty is often mentioned. For example, when Mma Ramotswe visits her husband's mechanic at his home. Charlie lives with his grandmother and several siblings and cousins in a tiny shack.

Marriage is seen as very important for Mma Makutsi.

The differences between Mma Ramtoswe and Mma Makutsi are many but yet they still remain firm friends and respect each other. I find their relationship to be the most interesting part of this and all the No. 1 Detective books. Their ways of thinking, methods and ways of dealing with the other characters are so unalike and extremely entertaining.

Old vs young. Mma Ramotswe's generation (I'm guessing she's in her late thirties/early forties), her father's generation vs the youth (e.g. the two mechanics and her foster children).

Behind the times? Doesn't seem to be a very modern society with the mod cons and luxuries we in the west take for granted. Yet, everyone seems to get on just fine.

As far as the story goes, the football detection seems quite unimportant really. I wish that had been more fleshed out and sinister.

Likewise I found the tiny white van storyline to be a bit of a non starter and found myself getting impatient at its seeming importance in the overall story. But then I realized that it's symbolic of an older person no longer useful in society coming to the end of its/his/her life cycle and also that the van was like a family member to Mma Ramotswe.

There's quite a bit of comic humour. Mma Makutsi for all her seriousness makes me smile. The whole storyline about Violet trying to steal her fiance cracked me up.

Anyway, that's just to get us started. Really looking forward to hearing what you all thought.

[hfwardhouse]

Thanks Fiona - I'm just checking in as I'm heading out shortly - I'll have a think about what I want to say and reply tomorrow (won't be home till late!)

[pabbers]

I'll make a start - not very good at this sort of thing!

Yes I agree the pace is very leisurely and that puts across the style of life in Botswana and I think it's one of the things that, for me, gives the books such a feel good factor - by contrast we spend so much of our lives rushing around.

I'm not sure but I don't think the author goes in for detailed descriptions necessarily, yet I have a very vivid picture of both Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi - well of all the characters actually, not to mention the scenes where things take place - I can see the garage and Mma Ramotswe's office very clearly.

Whilst life is rather retrograde to our way of thinking, and yes, probably sexist, nevertheless, as in many societies the women seem to come out on top and get their way. I'm interested that you found the story about Violet and Mma Makutsi amusing - I actually felt for her. It's a same old, same old, scenario - she's the plain Jane and along comes a bit of eye candy and she (quite rightly but for Fanwell's intervention, I'd say) fears the worst of her fiance. I felt her anxiety and lack of self esteem and confidence - yet she's so outspoken and forthright in many other respects. I thought this showed 2 sides to her personality quite well and I just love how she goes in for a bit of retail therapy for comfort. Now that's universally recognisable I'd guess!

I suppose because I've read all the previous books (avidly) I didn't really expect anything much of the detective side of things and I quite like the simplicity of the outcome to the football problem. I feel sure there's a message to us there, if only I could put my finger on it. I suppose at the most basic level it was to do with the club owner not seeing his own shortcomings, what was before his very eyes and looking for a more complicated reason for the match losses than there was.

I'm intrigued by the relationship between Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi - I think they get along so well because Mma Ramotswe is so easy going and kind and wise. Mma Makutsi probably supplies the odd bit of cynicism/nastiness that is lacking in Mma Ramotswe and that she perhaps needs at times. Mma Ramotswe on the other hand is Mma Makutsi's rock and one of the few friends I'd imagine she has.

I quite like the formality in the way they address each other - a bit like a Jane Austen novel. So respectful and Mr JLB Matekoni is a real sweetie (hmm that's not very literary critical speak is it?!).

OK - that's me for now.

[RoastLamb]

Very, very interesting, Pabbers. :thumbup: We all see things with different eyes and I've always found that rather fascinating.

Referring to some of your excellent points.

I told you that I watched the mini series that was done a couple of years ago with Jill Scott as Mma Ramotswe and Anika Noni Rose as Mma Makutsi. Well, whenever I read the books now I visualise them. Anika Noni Rose played her part with much comic flair. So, I don't mean to say the situation between her and Violet was funny ha ha because it wasn't, just that it had comic touches because I could just imagine the actress portraying her. I love how Mma Ramotswe is so patient and kind with her because she can be almost rude and blunt in her dealings with people (e.g. making fun of Fanwell for his name).

Oh yes, I'd totally forgotten about the shoes. Buying shoes rather than food. Probably coz I'm the other way round; I'd buy chocolate over a pair of shoes or clothes any day. :rolling:

I, too, like the formality and the pace of life. It is rather sweet and of a bygone age circa Jane Austen.

I forgot to mention also Mma's anxiety over her husband leaving that day to go to work for a friend in another town. She was afraid he wouldn't come back and that he would die in a car accident. I've felt that way too as my husband used to work many hours away. I think that linked to the theme of dying (she talks about her father as well and how much she misses him and also about Charlie's family members who've died of AIDS, linking to the well-known problem of that disease in Africa).

[Linda]

The books conjure up an ideal world, where the pace of life is slower and people are, on the whole, considerate to each other and take time to talk to each other. Whatever problems there are always seem to be simply sorted out by Mma Ramotswe! It makes you think how nice it would be to live there - but of course in real life it wouldn't be like that.

In many ways it reminds me of how things were here when I was very young. People did call each other Mr or Mrs whatever - my mother always referred to her best friend as Mrs Weller - I didn't even know what Mrs Weller's first name was. I'm going back to around 1960 now. There were no supermarkets; you went into a shop and the assistant served you. And everyone was very polite to each other. And of course it was rather sexist - husbands went out to work and wives stayed at home. I remember my mother fancied taking a part time job once my brother and I were at school, but my father said 'I'm not having people say I can't keep my wife'.

So the world portrayed in the books is not so different to how our world used to be. And I'm sure that it's no longer like that in Botswana either. But although everything seemed nice in those days (and to me as a child I didn't see anything that wasn't) there would of course have been bad things happening, but they were hidden. And that's like the books too - for instance, slight references are made to a disease that many people are dying from, but it's glossed over as much as possible whereas in reality AIDS is a dreadful problem in Botswana - it is the worst hit country in the world for HIV/AIDS.

So, the books are showing a way of life that (1) no longer exists, and (2) when it did exist, wasn't as wonderful as it's made out to be. But that of course is intended - because these books are escapism. We read the books and feel the gentle way of life seeping into us and wish that things could be like that. They are like a sort of lullaby really.

[MurrayAOne]

Me too - last night. I've made a list of things to discuss. Will put it up later this weekend. MurrayAOne just bought it yesterday so it may take her a few days to read still.

Hi! Yes am still reading it so may not be able to join in this discussion but I'll make sure I know the next one as soon as its announced! My comment on this one so far? Gentle and humourous although I find myself wishing their names were a bit shorter!!!

[Linda]

I always wonder how to pronounce Mma and Rra.

[MurrayAOne]

Me too! Tell me someone please!!!

[RoastLamb]

It's MA and RA. I only know from watching the tv series.

[MurrayAOne]

Thanks! Can't really join in with this discussion tho or read comments as I'm still reading it but no worries. I shall maybe post something when I'm done.

[RoastLamb]

So out of 10 how would you guys rate it?

[pabbers]

Hi! Yes am still reading it so may not be able to join in this discussion but I'll make sure I know the next one as soon as its announced! My comment on this one so far? Gentle and humourous although I find myself wishing their names were a bit shorter!!!

And easier to spell!!!

My younger son went on work experience to Ghana (yes - work experience!) about 4 years ago and I think the way of life was pretty much as described in this book. I know he used to get frustrated because employees would turn up to work and have a nap or do very little - there was none of the sense of urgency and ambition that we seem to have in our world. The strangest thing was that he was working for Radio Gold and whilst he was living with a family who (like most others) didn't have a washing machine and had very crude facilities (lots of people still used latrines (sp?)), I could listen to him reading the news over the internet - so Radio Gold had an internet presence and lots of people had computers..........interesting priorities no?

Oops - is that off topic?

Oh - I'd rate it 9/10

[RoastLamb]

I wish their names were shorter too but there is charm to it as Linda and Pabbers mentioned above.

I'd give it 7/10. Pleasant enough read but I wanted more depth to the detective plot. Not enough plot and too much meandering. But still very enjoyable.

[hfwardhouse]

I would probably give it 5 or 6 out of 10. It really wasn't my thing I'm afraid - I love detective novels but this was a bit bland for me - as Fiona said, there really was no substance to the detective part of the plot. It was interesting learning about the way of life in Botswana but it was way too laid back for overall enjoyment from my point of view.

The characters were interesting but I found it quite hard to get into, with it being the first one I've read (and I won't be rushing out to read any of the others I'm afraid!). I did like Mma Ramotswe, although I found Mma Makutsi a bit annoying at times, I did feel sorry for her in the Violet Sephotho situation - I did wonder if she was being paranoid to start with but soon realised there was probably a pattern which I had missed out on having not read any of the others.

The pace of life was positively horizontal in the laid back sense - I did get gripped momentarily when it appeared the detecting side of the story was going to take off, but then it stopped again and there was too much incidental stuff - the little white van got an awful lot of coverage - I'm sure though that in Africa they take their vehicles into their hearts as they keep them for a long time .... I just couldn't get that attached to a vehicle!

I did enjoy the book but found it disappointing as I'd expected more from the detective side of the story.

[Linda]

I think the first few books were better, and the last few haven't been as good as he's simply run out of ideas. Or maybe it just seems that way to me, as I really enjoyed the first few but then got bored with the format.

[RoastLamb]

Good stuff, ladies. Nothing like the complex plotting that goes on in an Ian Rankin or Stuart Macbride book, eh Jane?

Just waiting for MurrayAOne's take on the book. Meanwhile, Jane, would you like to pick our next title? I think we should have our next discussions in January as I know everyone will be busy in December.

[Linda]

Of all the books I've read recently I'd recommend Waiting For Columbus by Thomas Trofimuk (I posted about it on the other books thread).

Of course we could always do a book that's been out for a few years so most of us would have read it already. I would recommend either The Blind Assassin by Margaret Atwood or Fingersmith by Sarah Waters, both of which have amazing twists to the story.

[hfwardhouse]

I shall have a look at my list of e-books .... I have just acquired a rather large quantity of books to add to my list so it may take some time to select something suitable - it's most likely to be something that's been out a while :big grin:

Hopefully if it's something on that list, Patmoren will be able to join in too!

[MurrayAOne]

Hi! Could you let me know what it is please so I can start on time this time!! Thanks!

[hfwardhouse]

I will let you know when I've had a look at the list!

[RoastLamb]

Just remember we need a book that's out in paperback internationally - for those of us who buy hard copies and who don't live in the same country. :lol:

[Linda]

Waiting to hear!

[hfwardhouse]

Aaaaargh, the pressure's getting to me :sofa:

[pabbers]

Aaaaargh, the pressure's getting to me :sofa:

Can you hear the sound of drumming fingers? :lol:

[hfwardhouse]

:fingersear:

I'll do it after the tennis .....

[RoastLamb]

No rush. We won't be discussing till January. Plenty of time.

Meanwhile I am hosting my book club tonite. I'm making savoury pinwheels (tortillas with goat cheese, roasted red peppers and lettuce rolled up and then sliced) and have already baked two cakes: banana choc chip and chocolate marzipan. I don't drink wine so it felt strange going to the store to get a bottle of red and white and not knowing what the heck to buy. :lol: Just hope they get drunk. Also have some icewine. I finished the book late last night - very enjoyable read.

[hfwardhouse]

I wish you lived closer .... my mouth's watering!

[hfwardhouse]

OK peeps - I've got a couple of books on the shelf both by authors I've never read before .... I've checked and both are available in Canada Fiona but it seems awfully expensive to me ... but I've no idea of the exchange rate so maybe they're ok!!! If they're not, let me know, I have loads more to choose from!

The Disappeared by M R Hall - this would be my first choice
Think of a Number - John Verdon

Both my favourite crime/mystery genre

Let me know what you think.

[pabbers]

No rush. We won't be discussing till January. Plenty of time.

You're forgetting the slow readers among us.......ie moi!:lol:

Meanwhile I am hosting my book club tonite. I'm making savoury pinwheels (tortillas with goat cheese, roasted red peppers and lettuce rolled up and then sliced) and have already baked two cakes: banana choc chip and chocolate marzipan. I don't drink wine so it felt strange going to the store to get a bottle of red and white and not knowing what the heck to buy. :lol: Just hope they get drunk. Also have some icewine. I finished the book late last night - very enjoyable read.
So what are we having then???? :flowers:

Hope it goes well.

Off to have a look at Jane's suggestions.

[pabbers]

OK......either sounds good to me!

[Linda]

If we're going to do a crime book can't we do Death Comes to Pemberley by PD James?

Oops, just realised it's not out in paperback yet so we'll have to wait a bit before we do that one.

[RoastLamb]

I'll pick Think of a Number coz there were lots more of that book available on Amazon.

[hfwardhouse]

OK - Think of a Number it is.

[Linda]

Just been on the Amazon website reading a few reviews and it sounds like rubbish :sad:

[hfwardhouse]

Well it's up to you if you want to join in with this one. I'm afraid I can't afford to go out and buy books, so I've gone with something that's on my bookshelf.

[pabbers]

Just been on the Amazon website reading a few reviews and it sounds like rubbish :sad:

Eeee don't mince yer words there Linda.........poor Jane is probably feeling well and truly :shamed:

I must admit I never pay much attention to reviews for books, tv, films or anything else - if I do it's usually just to get the gist of what they're about so I can decide if they're my cup of tea or not. Reviews are too subjective IMHO.

[RoastLamb]

Some great reviews on Amazon. (http://www.amazon.ca/Think-Number-Dave-Gurney-No-1/dp/0307588920/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1321904868&sr=1-1) :confused:

[Linda]

Sorry, didn't mean to hurt anyone's feelings! It was just the impression I got after reading the first few reviews. I'll give it a go if that's what everyone else wants.

[Linda]

Some great reviews on Amazon. (http://www.amazon.ca/Think-Number-Dave-Gurney-No-1/dp/0307588920/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1321904868&sr=1-1) :confused:

Oh, you have your own Amazon in Canada! (I should have realised that :shamed:) There are loads more reviews on ours here (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Think-Number-John-Verdon/dp/0141048700/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1321905627&sr=8-1)

[MurrayAOne]

Is that definitely it then? Think of A Number John Verdon?

[RoastLamb]

I'll let Patmoren know as well on PM.

[pabbers]

Some great reviews on Amazon. (http://www.amazon.ca/Think-Number-Dave-Gurney-No-1/dp/0307588920/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1321904868&sr=1-1) :confused:

Yes and I think this quote from one of them absolutely encapsulates why I don't pay that much attention to reviews:


The very aspects which annoy some other reviewers of Think Of A Number are the reasons I enjoyed it so much!

[hfwardhouse]

OK so Think of a Number by John Verdon is the next book! Look forward to discussing it once we've all had a chance to read it!

[RoastLamb]

My book club last night went well. Everyone enjoyed the book. The red wine went down a treat. I also got to pick January's title: The Virgin Cure by Ami McKay, her follow-up to her first novel, The Birth House. She's a Canadian from Nova Scotia and she's great. This book is about how some men with syphilis thought that having relations with a virgin would cure them. It's set in New York in the 19th century.

[pabbers]

Glad it went well RL. Crumbs the next one you've chosen sounds a bit heavy compared to the things we're reading on here!

What's the deadline for reading ours please?

[RoastLamb]

Third week of January? 23rd?

[pabbers]

Sounds good to me - I can read it over Xmas as I get a nice long time off........once I've done all the preps for the big day that is!

[hfwardhouse]

Sounds good to me too - I'll do the same as Pat and try and get it read over the festive season when I'm planning on veging out as much as possible!

[pabbers]

Sounds good to me too - I'll do the same as Pat and try and get it read over the festive season when I'm planning on veging out as much as possible!

Would that be 5 a day then? Sorry :getcoat:

[silver]

Can anyone join in? I love reading especially crime novels

[RoastLamb]

Can anyone join in? I love reading especially crime novels

Of course you can. The more the merrier. Welcome!!!

[hfwardhouse]

Yay - welcome to the book club silver - anyone can feel free to dip in (or out) as they're able to!

[patmoren]

Just finished reading Think of a Number. Made some notes as it is a long time before the review, although it was good enough to remember.

[pabbers]

Just finished reading Think of a Number. Made some notes as it is a long time before the review, although it was good enough to remember.

Eeeeeeeeeeeeek better get my skates on - mine's only just arrived from Amazon. I'm in the middle of another book that's taking me forever. May have to abandon that to prioritise ToAN - did you enjoy it - without asking you to review it?

[Linda]

Haven't seen it in any bookshops yet?

[patmoren]

Eeeeeeeeeeeeek better get my skates on - mine's only just arrived from Amazon. I'm in the middle of another book that's taking me forever. May have to abandon that to prioritise ToAN - did you enjoy it - without asking you to review it?
Yes I did.

[patmoren]

Haven't seen it in any bookshops yet?
You can get it on Amazon, much easier than trolling round bookshops.

[hfwardhouse]

I'm still ploughing through Sue Grafton's books - up to R now .... loving them .... when I'm finished this one, I'll read TOAN .... and I'll probably do the same as Pat and make some notes!

[pabbers]

Don't forget there's 2 of us Jane - so it's Pat M and Pat B..........

I read the first of Sue Grafton's books in the summer and Santa is bringing me the next 2 I believe/hope.

[RoastLamb]

I haven't bought it yet. I'm waiting till after Christmas. So glad you liked it, Pat!

My daughter is getting me my real book club selection today as a matter of fact. It's her Christmas pressie from her.

Jane, do you want to write the summary/introduction like I did for the McCall Smith book?

Linda, do you want to pick February's selection? Not now but later I mean.

[hfwardhouse]

Jane, do you want to write the summary/introduction like I did for the McCall Smith book?

Ok .... will do ..... when I get round to reading it!!! Will have a look back at what you did too so I know what I'm about!

[Sallydaisy]

I've ordered TOAN today from Amazon (and V for Vengeance by Sue Grafton) so if it arrives over the next few days I can probably get it read in time to join in the discussions if that's OK?

[patmoren]

I am sure you will be more than welcome Sally.

[RoastLamb]

I just bought it. After spending what felt like an hour scouring the mystery aisles I found it in the literature and fiction section. There were 11 copies. I shall start it after I'm done with Ian Rankin's latest (which I'm finding rather a bore).

[hfwardhouse]

I'm reading TOAN at the moment - enjoying it so far!

[patmoren]

I'm reading TOAN at the moment - enjoying it so far!
Great Jane, hope you continue to enjoy it. I have £100 in my amazon account from Christmas so should have a good year!!

[Linda]

I couldn't see TOAN anywhere - not even in Waterstone's Brighton (though it was a good excuse for a browse) - so I've just ordered it from Amazon.

Will have to start thinking of possible choices for the next one!

[RoastLamb]

Good that Jane and Pat are enjoying/enjoyed it. Can't wait to get stuck in.

[hfwardhouse]

Wow Pat that's fabulous - lucky you!!!

[RoastLamb]

I didn't get any gift cards. :crying: I did get two books though so that's lovely.

[hfwardhouse]

I did get one gift voucher - can use it in loads of shops so looking forward to that :) Got lots of money as well .... although am tempted to hold onto it in case I win tix for Wimbly .... but if I do that then I definitely won't win tix so I'll probably just spend it!!!

[RoastLamb]

My 10-yr-old daughter bought me my real book club book. So I'm all caught up.

[lynne]

In my Christmas stocking I got Sarah's Key by Tatania de Rosnay (recommended by Fiona, so I just dropped a little hint & managed to see my son jotting it down on his mobile lol!) along with The Way I See It by Alan Sugar because the same son saw me pick it up & put back in a supermarket.....amazing who is watching:santa dance:

[RoastLamb]

In my Christmas stocking I got Sarah's Key by Tatania de Rosnay (recommended by Fiona, so I just dropped a little hint & managed to see my son jotting it down on his mobile lol!) along with The Way I See It by Alan Sugar because the same son saw me pick it up & put back in a supermarket.....amazing who is watching:santa dance:

Such a great book! I can't wait to see the movie, I heard it's just as good.

[Sallydaisy]

Think Of A Number arrived today - good work from Amazon 'cos I only ordered it late on Wed!
Will have a go at reading it over the coming weekend/Bank Holiday Monday (2nd January.

[MurrayAOne]

Think Of A Number arrived today - good work from Amazon 'cos I only ordered it late on Wed!
Will have a go at reading it over the coming weekend/Bank Holiday Monday (2nd January.

I'm reading that at the minute. Just into it and enjoying it. Going to curl up on the couch and have a read fest this afternoon. Cup of cha, biscuit, sorted. Simple pleasures!

[pabbers]

Wow Pat £100 on books - my idea of heaven! Still my SS did their best on here - so I can order some virtual books :lol:

Have started TOAN and am thoroughly gripped. Mr P has gone off to son's so I might sneak a read while he's out and before I need to get dinner ready. Luxury is a good book and peace and quiet - oh and of course, the cuppa and biccies/choc (but I must be good on that front - Jane's watching me in the virtual world :lol:).

Got the latest Patricia Cornwell for Christmas and B and C of the Sue Grafton series - so plenty to keep me out of mischief as I'm not the world's fastest reader.

[RoastLamb]

You're only on B & C? :lol: I'm nearly on V (when it comes out in pb).

Was sat at the orthodontist's office this morning for 1.5 hours waiting for my youngest to have her braces fitted so I started TOAN. Can't put it down. Am off to the couch to read the rest... I may be some time.

[pabbers]

You're only on B & C? :lol: I'm nearly on V (when it comes out in pb).

Was sat at the orthodontist's office this morning for 1.5 hours waiting for my youngest to have her braces fitted so I started TOAN. Can't put it down. Am off to the couch to read the rest... I may be some time.

I'm a late developer :lol: - only heard of Sue Grafton via Sally earlier this year.

[hfwardhouse]

I'm a late developer :lol: - only heard of Sue Grafton via Sally earlier this year.

Me too Pat .... but I'm already up to S I think :rolling: mind you having them all on my kindle is a big help :)

I'm struggling to find time to read TOAN but we're heading home on Sunday afternoon so once the bunny's picked up I should have a bit of time for a read fest!!!

[RoastLamb]

It's really good. I've already had to look up three words in the dictionary he uses. :shocked:

[pabbers]

It's really good. I've already had to look up three words in the dictionary he uses. :shocked:

Was one of them "peca..." something or other? Didn't look it up, just tried to guess :shamed: - think I decided it meant something like insignificant.

[Linda]

Now wondering what that word could be! :rolling: Peccadillo? (I can't resist a guessing game :shamed:)

[-J-]

il go with peccaminous

[Linda]

We've started a new word game! :rolling:

[Hawkeye]

peckapickledpeppers?

[RoastLamb]

Was one of them "peca..." something or other? Didn't look it up, just tried to guess :shamed: - think I decided it meant something like insignificant.

Close. It was "parricidal" on page 53 = the killing of a near relative esp. a parent.

T'other word was "concatenation" on page 40. Means something that's linked or joined together e.g. a chain of events.

[pabbers]

Nope - the one I was thinking of was picayune - page 107 in my edition - probably depends on the edition you're reading but chapter called Commitment. Have now looked it up and as I thought it means something of little or no value (so I wasn't far off with insignificant) - apparently it's actually a small coin worth 6.25 cents current in the US before 1857! So maybe you were aware of it RL - not that I'm implying you're old enough to remember it, you understand! ;)

[RoastLamb]

I'm not at that page yet that's probs why. :lol: Very good book. Really enjoying it so far.

[Linda]

TOAN just arrived - will have to start reading it later, after Rafa's match. But Caz also bought me 4 more secondhand books at the doctor's surgery this morning.

[pabbers]

TOAN just arrived - will have to start reading it later, after Rafa's match. But Caz also bought me 4 more secondhand books at the doctor's surgery this morning.

It's gripping! Nearly finished it - Mr P made me put the light out as things were coming to a crescendo (in the book that is :shamed:) :grrr:

[Linda]

I wouldn't have thought you meant anything else, Pat! ;)

[RoastLamb]

:lol: Pabbers.

I'm two thirds the way through and it is very gripping indeed. Very well written. I thought it would be another one of those American potboilers but it's anything but.

[MurrayAOne]

:lol: Pabbers.

I'm two thirds the way through and it is very gripping indeed. Very well written. I thought it would be another one of those American potboilers but it's anything but.

Me too. Good read. Just about to start another session!

[RoastLamb]

Pretty cool how we're all reading the same book right now. Part of me doesn't want to finish it. I hate it when a good book comes to an end.

[Sallydaisy]

I've not started it yet ... but plan on a good 'read-in' this coming weekend.
I can read a paperbook in a day so should be done by Sunday night.
:thumbup:

[supergran]

Interesting reading through thread as husband I read ToaN ages ago. He picked it up in a charity shop!!!

[pabbers]

Finished!!! Did not disappoint although I did guess correctly.......saying no more obviously.

[RoastLamb]

Finished!!! Did not disappoint although I did guess correctly.......saying no more obviously.

I have a suspicion too. Hope I'm wrong.

[pabbers]

Would be fun to compare guesses afterwards.

[Linda]

I've just read the first five chapters and I'm intrigued! I think I will go and relax in the bath and ponder on what I've read so far. It's a pity we didn't all read it together at the same time, so that we could exchange our thoughts after every half dozen or so chapters!

[MurrayAOne]

I'm at a really interesting bit. Can't wait to chat about it!

[Linda]

I had so many theories but whilst soaking in my bath I remembered something from my schooldays that turns it all on its head. Or does it? :confused:

[hfwardhouse]

I'm planning on reading some more tonight - it's a really enjoyable read - just started the second section this morning and didn't want to stop reading to go to work!

[Linda]

Not sure whether to read on yet or to do some more thinking first. I do like a puzzle!

[hfwardhouse]

Oh I can't put a book down once I'm gripped - I'm not quite there yet but I've just got to the interesting bit!!! I do like a puzzle too but like to get to the solution quickly!

[Linda]

OK, I've read another 3 chapters and Madeleine has caught up with me re x.arybdis.

Still don't know why Mellery, when listing the things that "six fifty-eight" could stand for, didn't say time (as in 'I'm catching the 6.58 to Brighton').

[hfwardhouse]

Yikes .... I need to go and read and avoid this thread in case of spoilers :shocked: :shocked:

[MurrayAOne]

I haven't finished either yet so steady on!!!!!!!

[Sallydaisy]

OK, I've read another 3 chapters and Madeleine has caught up with me re x.arybdis.

Still don't know why Mellery, when listing the things that "six fifty-eight" could stand for, didn't say time (as in 'I'm catching the 6.58 to Brighton').

Oi. I've not started it yet so you're going to have to stop posting spoilers!!!
:grrr:

;)

[Linda]

Sorry - I haven't actually said anything that is in the plot; I of course have no idea what 658 stands for but just mentioned something that occurred to me that it might be. I'm probably totally wrong. And I didn't say what the other thing is. But I'll stop posting my thoughts.

[pabbers]

Sorry - I haven't actually said anything that is in the plot; I of course have no idea what 658 stands for but just mentioned something that occurred to me that it might be. I'm probably totally wrong. And I didn't say what the other thing is. But I'll stop posting my thoughts.


Fear not, you can safely ignore all that Linda has said so far........now, Linda.........SHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!! people are trying to read :lol:

[RoastLamb]

I totally didn't get the X.arybdis reference.

[pabbers]

I totally didn't get the X.arybdis reference.

D'ya mean before or after the explanation? Anyway we better still shhhhhh for those who haven't caught up. I'm back to a Clash of Kings till the next book is announced. Can't remember who's choosing but please give plenty of notice or plenty of time to read, as I'm a slow reader!

[MurrayAOne]

Finished TOAN now. Looking forward to discussing it.

[RoastLamb]

D'ya mean before or after the explanation? Anyway we better still shhhhhh for those who haven't caught up. I'm back to a Clash of Kings till the next book is announced. Can't remember who's choosing but please give plenty of notice or plenty of time to read, as I'm a slow reader!

Before. :lol:

I'm close to finishing it too. I think we said before we'd start discussing around Jan. 23rd. Jane needs some time to get her introduction/summary ready. But if Jane is OK with it, we could bring it forward by a week to Jan. 16th? It's up to Jane.

[Linda]

Well, if I'd just read on and not laid in the bath pondering over it, I wouldn't have got it either. And it didn't make a bit of difference 'cos it was all explained a couple of chapters later.

[pabbers]

Well, if I'd just read on and not laid in the bath pondering over it, I wouldn't have got it either. And it didn't make a bit of difference 'cos it was all explained a couple of chapters later.

Yeah but it's nice to be right isn't it? Sense of achievement.

[Linda]

Seems to me that the whole book is like that. Something else happened (don't worry, I won't say what) that was supposed to be puzzling but actually was really obvious. Then a few chapters later it was explained. So what was the point of setting the puzzle at all? Hmmm. I think that the author is a bit like the perpetrator, setting puzzles for his readers! But unlike Agatha Christie, he explains each puzzle to us a few chapters later, instead of waiting for the last chapter to reveal all!

[RoastLamb]

Presumably he had to solve the mini puzzles along the way otherwise he'd get no further forward in solving the crime. The police are portrayed as ignorant morons, though, one thing I'm disliking about the book. Another thing I dislike is the relationship between him and his wife.

[MurrayAOne]

Well there were reasons for that I feel but will wait for discussion before saying.

[RoastLamb]

Anyway, I wanted to sort out who's picking books for the next few months.

I chose the first book in November
Jane picked January
Linda's doing February
then I thought Pabbers should choose March
MurrayOne - April
Patmoren - May.
Sally - June

Hope this is doable with everyone?

[Sallydaisy]

I read a few chapters of Toan last night before sleeping; not finding it gripping yet tbh.
Will try to finish it today/tomorrow.

[hfwardhouse]

I didn't find it gripping to start with Sally but once it all kicks off, it's extremely readable and definitely needed to get it finished - which I did this morning :big grin:

[Linda]

I found it intriguing from the start. But now I feel that the author is playing games with me just like his protagonist is playing games. Will probably finish it today or tomorrow.

[MurrayAOne]

I didn't find it gripping to start with Sally but once it all kicks off, it's extremely readable and definitely needed to get it finished - which I did this morning :big grin:

Felt exactly the same!!!

[pabbers]

Anyway, I wanted to sort out who's picking books for the next few months.

I chose the first book in November
Jane picked January
Linda's doing February
then I thought Pabbers should choose March
MurrayOne - April
Patmoren - May.

Hope this is doable with everyone?

Fine by me - do you need to add Sally?

[RoastLamb]

Yes, Sally, sorry I forgot you. You can choose June if you wish.

Jane, did you want to start the discussion the week before Jan. 23rd (see my earlier post)?

[MurrayAOne]

Anyway, I wanted to sort out who's picking books for the next few months.

I chose the first book in November
Jane picked January
Linda's doing February
then I thought Pabbers should choose March
MurrayOne - April
Patmoren - May.
Sally - June

Hope this is doable with everyone?

Yes that's fine. Any heads up on the next one yet?

[Linda]

I mentioned on the books thread a few weeks ago that I'd enjoyed Waiting for Columbus by Thomas Trofimuk. It's about someone who is washed up naked on the beach and claims to be Christopher Columbus. What do you think? Or if you fancy a very light read, last Christmas I bought The Book of Tomorrow by Cecelia Ahern for my daughter, so it must be out in paperback by now. Let me know what you think. If people don't fancy either of these, I'll try to think of something else.

I've finished reading TOAN now.

[MurrayAOne]

Thanks I'll have a look. This is my first time with book club so not sure how books chosen etc! Looking forward to it though!

[hfwardhouse]

I don't mind when we start discussing - is Sally the only one still to finish reading? I'm still thinking about the summary bittie so will try and pull something together later today. Not done anything like this before so please bear with me :) .... I think as soon as everyone has finished, we should get discussing and that'll let us move onto the next book.

I quite like Cecilia Aherne's books - not read that one so am up for it.

[Sallydaisy]

I'm still reading it - the middleofthenighttennis has played havoc with my schedule so I might need another couple of days if that's OK?

[MurrayAOne]

That's fine. Is there a particular order for discussion. Sounds like the person who chose book starts with a summary is this right?

[MurrayAOne]

I'm still reading it - the middleofthenighttennis has played havoc with my schedule so I might need another couple of days if that's OK?

No worries! Main thing is to enjoy finishing it and it's not a chore!!!

[pabbers]

Don't mind what we read next so long as it's not too heavy.

[MurrayAOne]

Don't mind what we read next so long as it's not too heavy.

The Cecila Aherne book sounds good. Haven't read anything by her before.

[pabbers]

The Cecila Aherne book sounds good. Haven't read anything by her before.

Ditto

[RoastLamb]

I read her first book PS I Love You which was made into a movie. Very light and fluffy.

[patmoren]

I haven't read Cecila Atherne before but I will read virtually anything. Will have a look on Amazon an see if they have it, hopefully on Kindle.

[Linda]

As I said, Cecelia Aherne is very light reading, but some people expressed a preference for that. But there may be less to discuss than with a 'heavier' book.

[hfwardhouse]

There wasn't a lot to discuss in our first offering so I don't mind something lighter - happy to go with it if others want - I see there are lots of 2nd hand copies available for under £2 on Amazon :thumbup:

[patmoren]

There is a Kindle edition so I have downloaded it!

[hfwardhouse]

I saw that but the secondhand ones are cheaper ;) ... have no spare cash after my recent visits to the sales :shamed: :rolling:

[pabbers]

Might check out the library.

[patmoren]

I saw that but the secondhand ones are cheaper ;) ... have no spare cash after my recent visits to the sales :shamed: :rolling:
Yes, but I have all that money to spend!!

[hfwardhouse]

You lucky thing!!

[Sallydaisy]

Finished TOAN!
:thumbup:

[MurrayAOne]

Finished TOAN!
:thumbup:

Well done mate! You do read fast!!!

[hfwardhouse]

Finished TOAN!
:thumbup:

Uh oh .... the pressure's on .....

[RoastLamb]

Finished TOAN!
:thumbup:

I did too, last night.

[hfwardhouse]

Never having done one of these before - be gentle with me ;) here goes ....

Think of a Number is the first novel by John Verdon who is based in upper New York State where a lot of the action takes place. The main characters are Dave Gurney, a retired New York Police Detective and his wife Madeleine, their relationship is a bit strained and becomes increasingly so as Dave gets more and more involved in the case. Madeleine would like, it appears, for Dave to stop being involved in any kind of police work. His main activity recently has been creating photo artworks involving the serial killers he helped to catch during his time as a police officer. Their relationship is further challenged by the loss of their son a number of years ago and Madeleine’s wish to say “goodbye” and move on. Dave’s answer to his grief it seems has always been to immerse himself in whatever work he is doing and this hasn’t helped the situation. Dave’s son Kyle from his first marriage, also appears occasionally trying to contact his father by phone. This relationship has also been adversely affected by Dave immersing himself in work and not really being there for his son.

Other characters who appear throughout the book are:

Mark Mellery, who was an old college friend of Dave’s and is the first victim (apparently) of what will be a serial killer’s efforts to rid the world of those he has set his mind on eradicating.

There are a number of police officers initially involved in the Mellery case, one of whom Dave has had past dealings with and isn’t overly keen on – Jack Hardwick. Hardwick is a good cop but has a challenging attitude and doesn’t always make life easy for those around him. He doesn’t have a lot of time for his boss, Rodriguez or the District Attorney, Sheridan Kline, who becomes Dave’s boss on this case when he hires him to work as a consultant on the case.

The book opens with a prologue introducing the killer and his mother and the poetry he will use to snare his victims. Dave Gurney is then introduced and he’s working on a picture in his series of serial killer photographs by the cop who caught them. Dave has had contact from Mark Mellery who wants his help after being contacted by a mystery person who knew what number he would think of and had it sealed in an envelope which arrived along with a poem. Mellery is terrified and more correspondence has since been received which increases his fear that something is going to happen.

This is my favourite kind of book, one which starts slowly, getting me involved in the characters and the story and then as the pace picks up, I find myself unable to put it down until it’s finished. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book – it was a gripping story and although I had worked out who was responsible for the murders before the end of the book, how it all fitted together was really entertaining.

[RoastLamb]

Enjoyed this book a lot. 8/10.

I really liked the puzzle elements in the book. It was baffling to figure out how the author of the pen letters knew the number that the victim thought of seemingly in advance. Loved the poetry and the weird clues left at the homicide scene. Ingenious. I also loved the setting of where Gurney lived. My kind of place. I loved the way Gurney thought, the way he could "see" through people and their motivations; the way he described the other characters in the book, e.g., the genderless sounding female sergeant.

I wasn't quite satisfied with the final solution (to the numbers puzzle) but it made sense. Some other things that bothered me: how the first victim (known to Gurney) was someone he'd gone to college with years ago. The crime fitted too neatly into Gurney's area of expertise. I didn't like the way the police - with the exceptions of the female sergeant and one of the detectives of a subsequent victim - were portrayed in such a negative way by Gurney. Also didn't get the relationship he had with his wife. It was strained due to their son's loss and the nature/intensity of Gurney's work but I couldn't understand how a man so intuitive and in tune with his life work could fail to comprehend and address the glaring problems in his own marital relationship (and his rubbish relationship with his older son).

For some reason the perp reminded me of the dude from Pyscho. Anyone else?

Will be very interested to see how others responded to the book.

[patmoren]

9/10 I enjoy a psychological thriller and thoroughly enjoyed this one.
The descriptive prose had me involved right from the beginning and it didn't falter. I suppose being married to a policeman for 48years affects how I see police investigations. I enjoyed the paper trail and clear indications of thought processes, it had me trying to seek a conclusion first. I fully expected Gurney's wife to have left him by the end but pleased she hung in there.
You would be amazed how many police marriages fail due to the pressures of shift working, days, nights, holidays cancelled, and the answer is always, I am just doing the job! So he has really captured the effect of policing on family life.

[pabbers]

Thoroughly enjoyed this - 9/10 for me. I was gripped and correctly guessing the perpetrator before the end, like Jane, didn't spoil it one little bit. I liked the fact that the police story ran alongside the complex relationship issues of Guerney, his wife and son - parallels with the perpetrator who'd had a troubled life and Guerney's poor relationship with his son? Don't know why (apart from the unsocial hours) policemen always seem to be portrayed as having relationship issues. I can definitely see how Guerney, despite his insight into police work, couldn't get to grips with his relationships. I know many men who are brilliant at their jobs but hopeless with the people they love - tunnel vision? Without wishing to be sexist, I felt the male/female portraits were accurate, if a little stereotyped. He, the bewildered husband/father (where am I going wrong?) and she the longsuffering, peacemaking, tolerant partner, willing to take an interest in and even make valuable contributions to his work, despite her clear feeling of competing with it for attention/love. I think I enjoyed the relationships stuff almost as much as the suspense story.
I guess the Mellory thing was just pure coincidence, that the killer should select one of Guerney's former college "mates" and indeed that Mellory should be one of those who responded to that selection.

[hfwardhouse]

I think 9/10 is my score as well for the book - I did find myself wanting more at the end - love a book like that cos it leaves you wondering how the character's lives will play out in the next few weeks, months etc. I can fully understand why policemen have difficult relationships - their hours are so anti-social - my friend is married to a police sergeant and I don't know how she can cope with him crawling into bed at 3 in the morning and stuff - that would drive me nuts!

I fully understood how Gurney and his wife's differences could come about - talking about something like the loss of a child can be very difficult and the longer it's left, the harder it becomes. Gurney obviously immersed himself in work and so understandably there was no opportunity to talk at the time .... avoiding difficult issues is very common - a lot of men find it hard to talk about things which hurt them, and their partner's grief can make them run a mile ... I have a husband who doesn't deal well with emotional issues - having been brought up in NE Scotland, that's something that's extremely common - so I could identify with Gurney and his wife.

A really really enjoyable read - I'll certainly be looking out for John Verdon's books in future.

[Linda]

I didn't expect to like the book as I don't normally read crime books, but I did.

I found it to be generally well written with plenty of description and good characterisation, so enjoyable from that point of view. I was also intrigued by the original puzzle, as I love solving puzzles. And then there were other little puzzles as we went along - obviously calculated to keep the reader a couple of chapters ahead of Gurney. I felt rather as though the author was playing with the reader in much the same way that the perpetrator was playing with the police - but it did make it seem at times as though Gurney was being rather slow off the mark. It made you wonder how he had managed to have such a distinguished career - unless it was all down to his wife solving the crimes for him! It was interesting that Gurney himself didn't like the police as he constantly thought things like "he's the sort of cop who gives the police a bad name" - there were a lot of similarities between Gurney and Dermott.

Right from the start though, it was obvious that Gurney and the police were making a glaring omission in not finding out more about Dermott. And of course once they came up with the hypothesis of the perpetrator having access to a database of people who'd been in rehab, that pointed the finger right at Dermott but again they were slow to follow that up. So it was a bit unbelievable that the police would have made such a glaring omission in their investigation. And the final answer was also unbelievable - if that letter had been sent out to thousands of people, then there would be plenty of people who had nothing to be afraid of saying to each other "I received a really strange letter the other day" and word would have got around about it.

By the way, I had no idea that in the USA your address is printed on your cheques! That really surprised me.

[MurrayAOne]

I really enjoyed the book and would give a score of 8/10. I found it to be a good balance of detective thriller and, for the most part, well written characters. The central character though at times withdrawn and reserved was interesting and likeable. The relationship with his wife was well written and essential to his actions and reactions to the unraveling mystery. Not always pleasant reading but well built tension between the two. The marriage struggling to survive past his retirement and their separate needs and expectations provided a good counter balance against the disturbing actions of the psychopath. The pain felt between husband and wife re the death of their son was particularly well written. Madeleine is an excellent character and totally believable. She is the calm amongst the carnage if you will!!! The scene where he follows her skiing and watches her sitting is full of feeling and emotion. The reader almost wants to warn him to buck his ideas up or she is off!!! Like patmoran I was glad she stayed.

I agree with Roastlamb about the setting. The author often began chapters with evocative descriptions of landscape and cold, snowy weather. Snow can be very evocative as a descriptive tool. We all have memories of snow and can instantly connect. I also felt that Gurney’s home - ‘nestled’ ‘secluded’ and ‘sturdy’ is, despite the ever present undercurrent of emotional tension, a safe haven from the horrendous world of his occupation. It was disturbing reading the actions of a psychopath but this was done particularly well. The end scenes were chilling and extremely well written. The description of the killer's face and smile etc and the cold, calculated way he issued his instructions.

I only found a few negatives with the book. I felt that it was, at times, over written and repetitive. Unnecessary repetition regarding information already presented. This is fine once or twice and I imagine was possibly the author's way of ensuring the reader always knew what was going on but I prefer my pudding with a few less eggs.

There were also a lot of very inept police about! Rodriguez was more caricature than character. The man was ludicrous. He began as an ignorant fool and remained so throughout seemingly impervious to any of the sense being spoken around him. This was boring, repetitive and unrealistic. The reader is not fooled. I also was surprised that the policeman in the final scenes, Nardo, did not realise Gurney's intentions sooner and felt him to be rather churlish toward Gurney given he had just saved his life!!!

Overall though it was a really enjoyable read.

[RoastLamb]

Some really great reviews. :clap: :clap: :clap: Particularly like your last para, MurrayAOne. I guess we're just waiting on Sally to get her bit in.

Linda, can you confirm the title and author of the next selection, por favor?

[Linda]

I suggested a couple of books but the one people seem to want is The Book of Tomorrow by Cecilia Ahern.

[hfwardhouse]

Happy to go with that one - I'll see if I can get it off Amazon later.

[patmoren]

Just finished reading it!! Quite a quick one to read.

[MurrayAOne]

Just finished reading it!! Quite a quick one to read.

What!!! That was quick!!! Nowhere near finished it!!! Shall crack on!

[Sallydaisy]

Think of a Number is the first novel by John Verdon who is based in upper New York State where a lot of the action takes place. The main characters are Dave Gurney, a retired New York Police Detective

Unbeknownst to us there's a sequel in the making - and it contains a bizarre twist that only tennis fans could appreciate ...
The 'tec has turned up on twitter!!!
Not only that - he's tweeting about Andy Murray!!!
:shocked::shocked::shocked::shocked::shocked:

DaveJGurney: (https://twitter.com/#!/davejgurney)

With Murray our last hope at #ausopen (https://twitter.com/#!/search?q=%23ausopen), a quick tribute to Ryan Harrison, responsible for one of my all-time top sporting quotes last year...


..'I've had to give up doughnuts. I hate vegetables but am happy to deal with agony of eating them if it means lasting 5 sets for 2 weeks.'

:getcoat:

[RoastLamb]

:lol: Sally!

Ahem, never mind that anyway. :rolling: Where is your book report? I shall make you stand in the corner for being so tardy. ;)

[hfwardhouse]

:lol:

I've bought the Kindle version of The Book of Tomorrow but I'm in the middle of another book so shall finish that before starting it!

[pabbers]

Better get my skates on!

[pabbers]

New book on the way from Amazon. By when do we have to read it? Off to Portugal 2-7 Feb so hoping to read it then.

[Linda]

I searched the spare room and found it, and re-read it over the weekend. It really is rather good, better I think than her other books - but I must wait till everyone is ready before I start discussing!

[RoastLamb]

Third week of February. 20th?

Sally still hasn't posted her thoughts about Jan's book however. Tsk. ;)

[Sallydaisy]

Third week of February. 20th?

Sally still hasn't posted her thoughts about Jan's book however. Tsk. ;)
Ooops, hadn't realised we were onto the next book. Also, I didn't see it was absolutely confirmed which book we were reading next.

I saw some of you had posted views about TOAN over the last few days but was expecting there to be more of a debate. Will put my notes in later today on that one.

[MurrayAOne]

Ooops, hadn't realised we were onto the next book. Also, I didn't see it was absolutely confirmed which book we were reading next.

I saw some of you had posted views about TOAN over the last few days but was expecting there to be more of a debate. Will put my notes in later today on that one.

It's never too late for a debate!!!

[Sallydaisy]

Where is your book report? I shall make you stand in the corner for being so tardy. ;)
erm, sorry for the delay! When I posted the bit from twitter I failed to see RL's 'prompt' about a report.
Here goes .....

I’ve read a lot of ‘mystery/suspense’ novels, and it’s one of my favourite genres, so I was quite intrigued by the premise behind this book.

It took a couple of chapters before I was really sucked into the plot lines and then I began to enjoy it more. I’d worked out Charybdis (Latin/classics at school helped) and thought from the off that the key to the murders lay with Dermott (the guy with the mailbox number) who came across as a nutter from the start. Even the dialogue Verdon wrote for him came across as incredibly contrived. Once Scylla was mentioned (the motel booking) I figured some more of it out.

I was more stumped by the puzzle behind the ‘Think of a Number’, interested to see how the relationship between Gurney and his wife would pan out and whether there’d be some ‘finalisation’ of the obvious, deep and difficult, grief Gurney still carried for his son. Nothing unusual in someone immersing themselves in work to avoid emotional distress but the ‘retirement’ had clearly allowed it to come to the surface so taking this ‘’job’ seemingly allowed him to try and submerge the emotions again.

Instead, there were many co-incidences (too many and too contrived) which constantly prompted Gurney to examine his feelings over his son’s death and his relationship with remaining older son. Unfortunately, about a quarter of the way through the book began to drag for me.

Some of the twists and turns in the novel didn’t make a lot of sense and it seemed, at many points, that Verdon was stretching out the story when it could have been more tightly written to heighten interest. Instead, some of the over-working of characterisation, particularly relating to the various members of Federal and Police agents, became tedious with far too much uninteresting dialogue between Gurney and assorted cops. I thought he missed an opportunity to use some of those characters to add more tension but they just became boring side pieces (e.g. the gallery owner conversations) and most without relevance to the main plot - and added about 20% to the length of the book. Less is more. …

I’m not a fan of meaningless claptrap either e.g. “for a moment he was distracted by the awareness of his own dissembling presentation of his emotional reaction” . Err, what!!!!

I thought the riddle of 658 was well explained and plausible - just. The denouement with the barmy mother and deranged son was both weird and amusing and one of the more interesting sections (and one of the better written bits) but it ended with a semi-farcical bust-in by 2 of the 'cops'.

In the end, the expected outcome of seeing Gurney realise the truth of what he’s become, his steps towards a better relationship with his son and appreciation of his wife Madeleine’s clear-eyed advice and love were what made sense of much of the novel. So, there'll probably be a sequel/series ...

It was an OK read but I wouldn’t have bought it if hadn’t been picked out for review by the Book Club. But then I guess that’s the whole point - that we read books we might otherwise leave on the bookshelf.
I’d give it 6 out of 10.

[RoastLamb]

Thanks Sally! Excellent review.

Yes, what was that with the art gallery owner? A storyline that went absolutely nowhere.

[hfwardhouse]

:thanks: Sally - very good review!

[RoastLamb]

My real book club went down last night. No one really liked The Virgin Cure except for me and one other. Oh well, can't win 'em all. The next book also has virgin in the title: Vivaldi's Virgins and it's historical non-fiction fiction. :rolling: