calm reading 1010 category challenge

Hello, I joined LT too recently to even consider joining the 999 challenge, but I would like to expand my reading. So I am joining this challenge and will post categories after serious consideration. I'll probably be using SqueakyChu's method but with the option of taking it up to the full 10 per category if I want to, or if inspired to read further.




Categories will be shifted around depending on how many books I find and do not read by January 1 2010.

I was thinking of this as a way to control tackle my TBR pile but instead I think I have found another way of justifying More Books!

It is starting as the 1-2-3 challenge with the option of upgrading numbers read in each category. Preliminary ideas subject to change.

All categories are based around things I have an interest in but with the idea of focusing on the subjects that have been sidelined for a large slice of escapism in my recent reading. So one of the points of this challenge is to get me out of the mainly F&SF and historical genre rut I have got myself stuck in. They are included!

Once again borrowing ideas from others I am adding pictures to my categories.



categories
1-religion (non-fiction)
2-LT inspired or Group reads
3-F&SF
4-books translated into English (fact or fiction)
5-ancient history/early civilizations (non-fiction)
6-mysteries (fact or fiction)
7-I want to know more-books inspired by reading fiction (non-fiction or (if stuck) fiction -sequel)
8- myth and legend (fact or fiction)
9- historical fiction
10-other countries (around the world)

I like your categories! I'm especially interested in seeing what you read for Myth and Legend and Ancient History (probably because I have similar categories myself, hehe).

category 1- Religion

I admit now that I am not a member of any church or organised religion, and whether I am a believer of any kind is personal to me. In other words this category is a chance for me to explore religious belief from any culture. Not a debate about anyone's personal religious beliefs.



1-The Old Testament. - Completed!!

Like many people I have read parts of this. The edition I will be reading is one I inherited:-
The Holy Bible
containing The Old and New Testaments
Revised Standard Version
Translated from the original tongues
Being the version set forth A.D. 1611, revised A.D. 1881-1885 and 1901
Compared with the most ancient authorities and revised A.D. 1952

Books read so far
Genesis
Exodus
Leviticus
Numbers
Deuteronomy
Joshua
Judges
Ruth
Samuel I
Samuel II
Kings I
Kings II
Chronicles I
Chronicles II
Ezra
Nehemiah
Esther
Job
Psalms
Proverbs
Ecclesiastes
Song of Solomon
Isaiah
Jeremiah
Lamentations
Ezekiel
Daniel
Hosea
Joel
Amos
Obadiah
Jonah
Micah
Nahum
Habakkuk
Zephaniah
Haggai
Malachi

category 2 - LT inspired and Group reads

A change of category, unfortunately I am not going to be able to start any art projects in the near future. So short and easy this is going to be any 2 or more books that I am inspired to read by LT - a book completely outside my normal tastes or that fits in as a group read in another group but does not fit into my categories. This includes ER (if I am lucky enough to win any!)



1- Briar Rose by Jane Yolen (group read) (5 Mar - 7 Mar)

2- The Painted Darkness by Brian James Freeman (ER - read 19 October)

other ER wins in 2010:-
Rhone by John A Karr
The Gathering Night by Margaret Elphinstone
Driveby Saviours by Chris Benjamin
Elf Love by Josie Brown (to read)

category 3- F&SF - the majority of my reading over the last few years.This has been moved nearer the bottom of the list in order to encourage me to diversify! As there are only 3 I will only count books from the Masterworks series (or F&SF listed anywhere as classics) or award winners. Actual books to be entered just before reading!



1- Blood Music by Greg Bear (1 Jan - 4 Jan)

2- The Dispossessed by Ursula K Le Guin (3 Feb - 6 Feb)

3- Little, Big by John Crowley (2 October - ) 1010 category challenge group read

category 4 - books translated into English (fact or fiction)

I don't know enough of any other language to read and understand a whole book, but there are books that I have read and enjoyed in translation. For this category I am being strict and disallowing books I have already read. (you'll have to trust me on that one and I reserve the right to change my rules)

New rule only one translation per country. I am allowing only one Russian; two European and a minimum of one *rest of the non-english speaking world* (either South american or asian).



1- Japanese A Cat, A Man and Two Women by Junichiro Tanizaki

2- Norwegian Sophie's World by Jostein Gaarder

3- Portugese The Book of Chameleons by Jose Eduardo Agualusa

4- German Steppenwolf by Hermann Hesse

Bonus reads

5 - French Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress by Dai Sijie

6- Russian One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich by Alexander Solzhenitsyn

7 - Italian The Mysterious Flame of Queen Loana by Umberto Eco

8 - Norwegian Vita Brevis by Jostein Gaarder

9 - Chinese Sky Burial by Xinran

10- French The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery

possibilities

Chinese The Analects by Confucius

Italian The Prince by Machiavelli

category 5-ancient history, prehistory and early civilisations.

At the moment I am listing 2 source books, in translation, Herodotus for Greece and Suetonius for Rome, which I intend to read very slowly over the year. That is I am intending to read one book of Herodotus's History and about one Caesar from the Suetonius per month.
I've extended this category from just ancient history to include books about prehistory and early civilisations.



1- The Histories by Herodotus (group read- one book a month starting 1 January)
first thread - general http://www.librarything.com/topic/79011
extra material thread thread
http://www.librarything.com/talktopic.php?topic=79046
book one (1 January - 3 January)
http://www.librarything.com/topic/80565
book 2 (8 February - 12 February)
http://www.librarything.com/topic/83705
book 3 (8 March - 12 March)
http://www.librarything.com/topic/85977
book 4 (12 April -15 April)
http://www.librarything.com/topic/88166
book 5 (15 May - 18 May)
http://www.librarything.com/topic/90113
book 6 (9 June - 21 June)
http://www.librarything.com/topic/92096
book 7 (29 July - 31 July)
http://www.librarything.com/topic/94011
book 8 (2 August - 6 August)
http://www.librarything.com/topic/95922
book 9 (6 September - 8 September)
http://www.librarything.com/topic/97817

2- The Twelve Caesars by Suetonius (4 Jan - 4 December)
Julius Caesar (4 January - 6 January)
Augustus (4 February - 6 February)
Tiberius (28 March)
Gaius Caligula (11 April)
Claudius (26 May)
Nero (24 June - 25 June)
Galba (31 July)
Otho (7 August)
Vitellius (28 September)
Vespasian (3 October)
Titus (1 November)
Domitian (4 December)

3- The Prehistory of the Mind by Steven Mithen (1 January - 11 January)

4- Before the Dawn: Recovering the Lost History of Our Ancestors by Nicholas Wade (15 January - 23 January)

5- Civilization Before Greece and Rome by H.W.F. Saggs (13 March - 25 March)

possibilities

Ancient Egypt: Anatomy of a Civilization
Goddesses, Whores, Wives, and Slaves

category 6-mysteries (fact or fiction) - murders, puzzles, mysteries and conundrums!



1 - Possession : A Romance by A S Byatt (8 Jan - 16 Jan)

2- The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon (8 Feb - 11 Feb) Translated from Spanish by Lucia Graves.

3- The Interpretation of Murder by Jeb Rubenfeld (21 Feb - 23 Feb)

4- Alias Grace by Margaret Atwood (27 Apr - 30 Apr)

5- The City and The City by China Mieville (27 May - 29 May)

6- Fingersmith by Sarah Waters (11 July - 12 July)

Bonus Reads

7 - The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield (15 July - 16 July)

8 - Codex by Lev Grossman

9 - Gentlemen and Players by Joanne Harris

possibilities

The Suspicions of Mr Whicher by Kate Summerscale

category 7 - I want to know more - books inspired by reading fiction, non-fiction or (if stuck) fiction - sequel

This category is random. The books will be chosen as a direct result of reading a work of fiction or nonfiction. It is a result of my reading habits, I often read something and think 'is that true?' or 'that's interesting'.



1- The Cave Painters: Probing the Mysteries of the World's First Artists by Gregory Curtis (24 Jan - 28 Jan)

2- The Lords of Avaris by David Rohl (12 Feb - 7 Mar)

3- The Vikings by Else Roesdahl (22 Apr - 10 May)

4- The Celtic Alternative by Shirley Toulson (29 May - 6 June)

5- The Time Traveller's Guide to Medieval England - Ian Mortimer (17 November - 30 November)

6- The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver

7- Towers of Midnight by Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson

category 8-myth and legend. I think I will allow folklore and fairy tales to be included. This category allows for my love of short stories. I am very tempted to just read collections of mythology and folktales from around the world.



1- Myths of the Norsemen by Roger Lancelyn Green (14 Jan - 23 Jan)

2- The Tales of Beedle the Bard by J. K. Rowling (27 Jan - 29 Jan)

3- The Book of the Thousand and One Nights by Richard Burton (10 Feb - 21 Mar)

4- Mabinogion translated by Lady Charlotte E. Guest

5- The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

6- Till We Have Faces by C. S. Lewis

7- The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood

8- The Legend of Sigurd and Gudrun by J.R.R. Tolkiein

possibilities

Hindu Myths Translated by Wendy O'Flaherty

Folk Culture of Tibet by Norbu Chopel

American Indian Myths and Legends by Richard Erdoes and Alfonso Ortiz

category 9-historical fiction includes any novel set in the past and contemporary novels written before the early twentieth century. At the moment this includes books owned and on my TBR list. Can I actually keep from reading them until next year?



1- World Without End by Ken Follett (16 Jan - 8 Feb)

(group read 75 book challenge thread -15 January)

2- An Echo in the Bone by Diana Gabaldon ( 26 Jan - 31 Jan)

3- Flint by Margaret Redfern (21 Mar - 22 Mar)

4- The Forest of Hours by Kerstin Ekman (24 Mar - 29 Mar)

5- Lion of Ireland by Morgan Llywelyn (14 Apr - 18 Apr)

6- The Stone Carvers by Jane Urquhart (3 May - 6 May)

7- Storyteller by G. R. Grove (13 May - 15 May)

8- Credo by Melvyn Bragg (18 May - 27 May)

9- Watermark : A Novel of the Middle Ages by Vanitha Sankaran

possibilities

The Sunne in Splendour by Sharon Kay Penman

Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell

Bleak House by Charles Dickens

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

category 10- USA and other counties. 20th-21st Century. Main criteria must be written as a contemporary work in English - as the author intended not dependent on translation!. Can be either fact or fiction - therefore can include biographies, modern political or social history and novels.

Decided for a greater challenge that I would prefer to have this category at the top of the list. A minimum of 10 books set in or about other countries. (Time for a change - most of my relatively recent modern/contemporary fiction reading has been set in the U.K.)



1- Vernon God Little by DBC Pierre (4 Jan - 8 Jan) America

2- Coastliners by Joanne Harris (2 Feb - 3 Feb) France

3- Midnight's Children by Salman Rushdie (5 Mar - 19 Mar) India

4- A River Sutra by Gita Mehta (31 Mar - 2 Apr) India

5- Cat's Eye by Margaret Atwood (10 Apr - 13 Apr) Canada

6- A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini (11 May - 13 May) Afghanistan

7- The White Rhino Hotel by Bartle Bull (21 June - 24 June) Africa

8- An Artist of the Floating World by Kazuo Ishiguro (15 August - 16 August) Japan

9- Kanthapura by Raja Rao (19 August - 21 August) India

10- Mister Pip by Lloyd Jones (24 August -25 August) Bougainville (Papua New Guinea)

Bonus -
America The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

Canada Surfacing by Margaret Atwood

France Chocolat by Joanne Harris

USA Pigs in Heaven by Barbara Kingsolver

possibilities (in the TBR)

China Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China by Jung Chang

It looks like fun!

The entire Old Testament? Wowza!

#15 What she said - that puts my big fat Russian novel to shame!

>15 RidgewayGirl: & 16 It is meant to be a challenge!:)

I said I was following SqueakyChu's format so that is the only book I'm attempting in that category and Sirfurboy did it this year and I think he's doing the 250 challenge. I just read his review of it today and he made it sound possible and actually worth doing. Over the years I've dipped in and out and if you think of it as a work of mythology and the foundation of much of Western literature and society it is worth doing.

ETA I don't know if I'll succeed and sjmccreary which big fat Russian novel, if I've got time I might add it to my skinny little Russian novel. :)

Absolutely worth doing. No argument there. I was just thinking about the begats and the dietary regulations in Leviticus. Ouch.

I like the format of your challenge...I can't wait to see what you read for Category #7! :)

>19 christina_reads: ladyc72385 That depends on what I read in the other categories, for example I'm reading Pillars of the Earth (category 9) at the moment so if I wanted to know more I could chose a book on King Stephen, or church architecture, or medieval merchants to fit category 7. So that's one category I can't fill until I've read other stuff. I'm looking at this challenge as a way to informally learn about subjects that interest me.

#17 Oh, I know it's doable, especially over the course of an entire year. It's just so intimidating to consider it as a whole. Like you, I've dipped in and out, and have read most of it, but not all at once! I'm still impressed.

I have no idea which novel I'm reading for my "Big fat Russian novel" cateory. As I explained on my thread, it only has to be non-American and translated into English, so I'm not even bound to the Russians. But who else writes big fat novels?

@ #18 Not to mention all those really angry prophets by the end, whose books are all about which tribe will get their villages burnt for their ungodly ways.

@ #21 If "fat and translated but worth it" is your rquirement, I recommend The tin drum. Or Life. A user's manual. Both pretty challenging but rewarding reads.

#22 I've never heard of either of those books, but will add them to the list for consideration. Thanks.

Like you I am not involved in organized religion, but I've read the entire Bible many times, mostly as a young person. The church in which I was raised used a schedule which got us through the OT once and NT twice each year. It's not time-consuming taken like that. The begats and some of the lawmaking will, indeed, cause your eyes to glaze over, but you'll be rewarded with some gorgeous literature in return. Recently I re-read Ecclesiastes and was stunned, once again, by its familiarity. As someone once said, "I don't want to read Shakespeare because it's too full of quotes".

#24 Thanks auntmarge64.

I have read most of the "easy" bits Genesis, Exodus, Song of Solomon, Psalms and some of the histories and prophets. It doesn't seem fair to live without at least *trying* to read the begats and laws.

You have my very best wishes. I hope you will keep us posted. I was raised unchurched but my maternal grandmother used to read the Bible through, as described above, every single year. I don't ambition to do that, but I would like to have read the whole thing (maybe not the begats) through at least once.

#5

The Celtic Design Book is really great - I managed to design my first tattoo with the help of it.

#26 NeverstopTrying and #27 bookoholic13.
Thanks for dropping by and it is nice to know that I am not alone.

I've been thinking of picking up Steppenwolf as it fits in either my Wolf or Translations category and it's good to have options like that. Mixed reviews though so I will be interested to know how you find it.

@#29 I read Steppenwolf in my early twenties and remember it as a pretty challenging read, but that it left an impact. I suspect it has a lot to do with where you are in life and things (compare for instance with On the road, which I haven't read and don't feel that tempted by either, simply because I suspect it's "too late" for it and it'll just annoy the heck out of me), but i'm not at all sure if that's the case. That said, I don't remember much about the book and look forward to hearing about it here.

Solsjenitzyn's book (yes, we in Sweden spell him like that. I think.) I remember as a bit of a knockout in all it's simple straightforwardness. Definitely a book I remember!

I am tempted not to wait for the 1010 to read Steppenwolf. If I don't it will be part of the Endless European. Here or there I will let you know.

Hi!

I've got the histories on my list of 2010 as well. Want to attack them together?

My tips for reading the old testament, any paragraph with the word begat more than twice should be skipped ... and don't try to pronounce the names LOL I just call the Mr B, Mr Z whatever letter their name started with LOL Saves a lot of mental stumbling.

Virginia

I'll probably keep a mixed myth/religion/philosophy on my 101010 and, if I do, I'm seriously thinking about the Bible as a possibility. Regardless of your religious views it is important (like Shakespeare!) as literature.

>32 VirginiaGill:

Hats off to you two for adding Herodotus to your challenges! I've got the Landmark version and am quite intimidated. However, if you're going to read it together, esp. if we had a schedule, I'd give it a try. I've been wanting to read it for quite a while.

Solshenitsyn is a favorite of mine, and I especially love One Day.

I read the Old Testament, including the begats, in high school. I'm sure I could read it again, as it's been a while, but you can absolutely do it!

I'm curious to know if the Rock Band, Steppenwolf was named after the 1927 Hermann Hesse novel by that name. Because I'm only familiar with the Rock Band I grew up listening to in the 1960s & 70s with such hits as Born To Be Wild, Sookie, Sookie The Pusher,Magic Carpet Ride, Corina,Corina and Hootchie Kootchie Man to name but a few. I might even own a few of their Albums at home. I'd have to double check on that sometime since I have my entire Album Collection filed alphabetical by the Artists' name then by the order the Albums were originally released. I also own the movie Easy Rider on VHS too.

Hey, here's an idea calm you can read Steppenwolf while listening to Steppenwolf at the same time. At least that's what I would be doing if I ever decided to read Steppenwolf. How Cool is that? Far Out, Groovy, Can you dig it?

Beatles1964

#36 I think I could listen to a Steppenwolf cd a lot quicker than reading the novel!

For your information "Taking their name from the Herman Hesse novel, the band signed with The Turtles management company..." from the sleeve notes of the Best of Steppenwolf Born to be Wild cd!

Sorry about that but I didn't have the Born To Be Wild CD right in front of me at the time so I couldn't very well read it on the sleeve. I was only wondering whether or not it was a coincidence they had the same name as the novel, that's all.

Beatles1964

I guess I didn't come across as very jokey! so sorry - my cd's live right next to my desk for easy access and I haven't managed the art of casual typing :(

I must develop a sense of humour! (lol?) :)

Hmmm, a new trend is born. Listening to Tesla while playing with electricity, listening to MC Hammer while doing home repairs, listening to Whitesnake while...

My guess would be that the band's name was not coincidental. Steppenwolf was an iconic book of the 60's, and many of us old "hippies" studied it like the Bible.

As another "old hippie," my recollection is that it was pretty general knowledge then that the band's name came from the book.

#40 Home repairs just became an even LESS attractive concept :)

calm;
I love your challenge and you how you have it set up.
My personal thoughts on the begats when you get there is: I love to read them backwards, that is to start at the back or most recent and read them to the beginning instead of beginning to end. For some reason I can place the biblical person much more easily that way. IDK. Just how my mind works with those doggone begats!
later,
belva

hi belva thanks for dropping by- so many tips from so many people about reading the begats in the OT:)

I guess I will take it like most things I read - is one word at a time really so difficult?.

and if I skim as others have suggested can I truly say that I read it!

Now to choose the soundtrack! :)

I can just see people suggesting Genesis!

Lots and lots of appropriately named operas and oratorios out there. I just can't imagine them helping you read.

Guess its time to bump this ;-)

My planned reading for January includes starting
1) The Old Testament
2) Herodotus's Histories
3) Suetonius's The Twelve Caesars
4) Ken Follett's World Without End - group read planned start 15 Jan

I'll possibly add in the 75 Book challenge group reads of The Chronicles of Prydain by Lloyd Alexander (one book a month over 5 months) and the Lensman Series by E. E. Doc Smith (not sure of precise dates).

I will also be reading Steven Mithen's The Prehistory of the Mind which I am going to slot into my ancient history category (I know it is prehistory but it's my challenge and I am expanding the category to fit!). This one I borrowed from the library before Christmas but still haven't got around to reading yet.

No other real plans apart from reading! I'll take a look around to see what takes my fancy ;-)

Wishing you all a Happy New Year and lots of good books!

I'm planning on starting The Old Testament sometime in January - after catching up to everyone in the Herodotus read! (I still have about 130 pages of my last 999 nonfiction book to finish before I move into 1010.)

Hi hailelib I'm looking forward to this challenge - it will stretch me a little bit outside my comfort zone!

I'm not sure how fast I'm going to be reading the Herodotus myself but as I somehow (accidentally) volunteered myself to set up those threads it seemed like a good idea to put in the links to the Herodotus threads in my ancient history category here .

Actually if I get involved with any Group reads I will put in links in the appropriate categories. Then I will only have to come to this thread to find them! A bit like putting my challenge threads on my profile;-)

These seem very interesting categories, calm! I'll be seeing how things progress.

Thanks jillmwo, have you set up a thread yet? I can't find one with your name on it:(

#47 Nothing like just jumping in with both feet, is there?! You've got an impressive list there!

Like many people, I've read most of the the Old Testament in bits and pieces, but never cover-to-cover. I've started several times but rarely make it past Exodus. Good luck on this one - and with an old translation, too.

I'm participating in the Herodotus group read, and have been working on the introduction for a couple of days now and getting excited to begin the real thing. Thanks for getting the threads organized for us.

#52 sjmccreary. The first three on that list are going to be read very slowly over the year - just like the Herodotus! The two group reads of series are actually rereads that will also be spread out at a much slower rate than I usually read a series. The Follett is going to be a paced group read (when the reading schedule is set) and the Mithen looks very readable to me. I'll probably have to throw in some fiction for fun.

OK - the year has started and so have I;-)

I am currently reading

Ancient History - Herodotus's Histories

and

F&SF - Blood Music by Greg Bear.

I will be starting the other books mentioned in my January list over the next few days.

category 3 - F&SF (1 of 3)

1) Blood Music by Greg Bear (1 Jan - 4 Jan)

There are always books that slipped my attention when first published and this was one of them.

Originally published in 1985 this does show its age in some details that temporarily jarred me away from a fascinating story but it is still a book worth reading. I can't say that Bear creates the most sympathetic characters but he does have a wonderful "what if" imagination. So this story of science gone wrong carried me in strange and wonderful directions even though I am still not quite sure what the destination was.

category 10 - USA and other countries (1 of 10)

2) Vernon God Little by DBC Pierre (4 Jan - 8 Jan)

Bizarre and quirky. An intriguing look at how pop culture and the ubiquity of instant media leads to an expectation of how we should behave when certain events happen.

After his best friend kills most of their classmates in a high school shooting Vernon Little becomes the scapegoat; the target for the town's anger. His mother is ineffectual; his father has disappeared sometime before; his best friend is dead and nobody believes that Vernon is innocent. Throw in some supporting characters - the local housewives; the cops who want an arrest; a media circus; lawyers and a truly weird psychiatrist - and we end up on a nightmare journey with a teenage American boy.

The characters are sketchy and disagreeable and the plot implausible. It is also crude but the pictures it conjures and some wonderful imagery drew me in. Strangely enough I really liked it.

I had some problems with Vernon God Little, the largest of which was that it was so clearly written by someone who had not lived in the area he was writing about. There was, to me, a great deal of mocking a world that doesn't exist. It might have worked had the author been from the American southwest, and had an insider's eye for its absurdities, but he didn't. I wish that DBC Pierre had chosen instead to set the book in Australia, where he would have been able to create a more authentic fictional world. Does that make sense?

I don't know about the specific absurdities of Texan life (never having been there) but to me the exact location wasn't an important aspect of the book. To me it was more a satire in general about small town attitudes; pop culture and the media.

category 5-ancient history, prehistory and early civilisations. (1 of 5)

The Prehistory of the Mind by Steven Mithen (1 Jan - 11 Jan)

Subtitled A Search for the Origins of Art, Religion and Science this is a look at how intelligence and reasoning developed from the earliest primates to the beginnings of agriculture. Using metaphor and analogy Steven Mithen provides a synthesis of archaeology and psychology to explain why and how we think.

I found this an interesting book to read. He presents his ideas in a readable style; expanding on certain points in more detailed notes which include sources for further reading. Recommended.

If you're looking for a book for your final category -- books in English written outside the UK -- you might take a look at Chinua Achebe. His Things Fall Apart is excellent, and his new one is The Education of a British-Protected Child. Not sure if it's fiction, however.

I admire your ambition re the Old Testament. I'm reading a book now about the King James Version (its creation) by Adam Nicolson, God's Secretaries, for my 75-book Challenge, and am really enjoying it. It may even spark me to try some of the Bible as well! I'm cheerfully areligious, but very curious about religion itself -- its ability to inspire but also to divide us. I did, in my years at school in England, read chunks of the New Testament and also the psalms and some other tidbits from the Old Testament, but the details haven't stuck in my mind.

re: reading the OT, just remember that some chunks are pretty tough going: there are pages of "x begat y, y begat z..." or pages of "King a ruled and walked (or did not walk) with the Lord and..." or rules about various religious rites. So you have to be willing to wade through some of this reading to get to the good stuff. Depending on what you like, you might want to jump around a bit. For example, if you are having a tough time with 1 Chronicles, you might want to read a chapter of it, then a few Psalms or a couple chapters of Proverbs. I personally find reading Proverbs interesting, but I can't do it all in one setting, so this kind of approach works for me. If you are finding any of the reading to be particularly difficult, you might consider this approach.

Happy reading!

~60 - thanks Chatterbox I'll have a look and see if it's the sort of thing I would like to read.

#60 & 61 Re: reading the OT

Got through Genesis - onto Exodus next

I'm not on any reading schedule I just dip in when I feel like reading a few chapters. I am taking it in the order it is written though, definitely not jumping around.

Lots of genealogy already - just need to remember that this comes from oral tradition and is actually quite rhythmic ;-)

category 6-mysteries (fact or fiction) - murders, puzzles, mysteries and conundrums! (1 of 6)

Possession : A Romance by A. S. Byatt (8 Jan - 16 Jan)

This is a wonderful book of richly textured, interweaving layers of past and present. Letters, journals, poems, myths and legends build to tell the story of two Victorian poets. This is one to be savoured, the richness of language and imagery build layer upon layer creating the worlds of Victorian mores and modern academia in such a way as to draw you further and further in.

After Roland, a young research assistant, finds drafts of a letter from Randolph Ash to an unnamed woman he starts a journey to uncover the story behind the relationship. He teams up with Maud, an expert on Christabel LaMotte. As they find more letters and diaries the story unfolds and what a magical story it is. A truly wonderful book.

interesting! i'll be poking in and out of here from time to time to see what you're up to!

category 8 - myth and legend (1 of 8)

Myths of the Norsemen (AKA The Saga of Asgard) by Roger Lancelyn Green (14 Jan - 23 Jan)

A retelling of the Norse myths into one coherent story. This is a good introductory book that brings Odin, Thor and all the other Norse gods to life with all their quirks and foibles. Very enjoyable.

category 5-ancient history, prehistory and early civilisations (4 of 5)

Before the Dawn by Nicholas Wade (15 Jan - 23 Jan)

A very accessible read. Nicholas Wade has taken findings in genetics and woven them with archaeology, linguistics, palaeontology and psychology to create a picture of how the human race has developed and is continuing to develop. Fascinating stuff and well worth reading.

category 7 - I want to know more (1 of 7)

9) The Cave Painters: Probing the Mysteries of the World's First Artists by Gregory Curtis (24 Jan - 28 Jan)

Gregory Curtis is obviously passionate about his subject. He explores the lives of those who found, explored and studied the Neolithic Cave Paintings found in France and Spain. He takes us from the first discovery and the differing opinions of various archaeologists, art historians and amateurs as they try to understand why this culture flourished for 20,000 years. Drawings, photographs and coloured plates show us some of the paintings but as he says himself nothing can possibly recreate the feelings of actually seeing these in situ. We meet many interesting characters along the way but at the end all we have are various theories. No one will ever know just why these images exist but this is a small taste of why people are fascinated by them.

Maybe a slight cheat but these are fairy tales so can fit into this category.

category 8 - myth and legend (2 of 8)

The Tales of Beedle the Bard by J. K. Rowling (27 Jan - 29 Jan)

After reading about The Tales of Beedle the Bard in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows and the clues they give to Hermione that help to defeat Lord Voldemort I was looking forward to reading this (but in no hurry). J. K. Rowling has spun her usual magic in this short collection of fairy tales, as familiar to wizard children as those of The Brother's Grimm or Hans Christian Andersen are to muggle children. The 5 short tales are interesting to read and Dumbledore's commentary witty and apropos. A nice addition to the world of Harry Potter.

category 9 - historical fiction (2 of 9)

An Echo in the Bone by Diana Gabaldon (26 Jan - 31 Jan)

A long awaited return to Diana Gabaldon's Outlander series. As the series goes on my respect for her ability to bring to life the past increases and, once again, her world building and sense of character and history swept me away. Slightly disappointing to me are the references to Lord John's past. If I had read the companion series that details his life I'm sure that the drawing together of the two series would not have jarred so much. But all in all a welcome return to the continuing saga of Jamie and Clare's life. Unfortunately, given the depth of her research, I know it will be a long wait for the next instalment.

category 10 - USA and other counties (2 of 10)

Coastliners by Joanne Harris (2 Feb - 3 Feb)

This novel is about a place and the local characters seen through the eyes of someone who is almost an outsider. A novel about home and belonging; about love and family; life and death.

Returning home to a small island just off the Breton coast, after her mother's death, Mado finds the village in decline. Seen as interfering, she tries to return life to the village. The relationships, feuds and lives of the locals play out against the sea — what it gives and what it takes.

Joanne Harris writes with obvious love about this small community; creating wonderful images of life and the power of nature.

It's been a couple of weeks since I've checked in here, and I find that you've been reading tons of interesting books - now I'm off to add them to my own wishlist!

sjmccreary - nice to see you here. I'm just quietly sneaking in and listing my reads. I think I got a bit overwhelmed when I first joined this group and set up my thread. There are so many interesting looking books being read but I do not want to be too distracted away from this year's reading goals. Maybe just keep them in mind for next year's challenge;-)

#72 lol! I hope you have better luck with that plan than I have! By next year, there will be another whole list of interesting books to read!

I will have to look for Myths of the Norsemen. I've read two fiction books recently set in the world of Norse mythology, Runemarks and Eight Days of Luke, and they both made me want more!

I read Runemarks last year - got me into reading Joanne Harris and reminded me to catch up on a bit of Norse Mythology. Myths of the Norsemen is aimed more at a YA market so it's an easy read - but fun!

There are two Myths of the Norsemen in the LT database. The one by Green is an easy and fun read and gives a very good overview of the myths. Not familiar with the other one.

Good to see some love for Joanne Harris here. I had a whole category devoted to her last year. Are you planning on reading any of her other books?

hailelib - I read the Green. I don't know anything about the other book either.

VictoriaPL - I've got 3 on my TBR shelf - Chocolat; Blackberry Wine and Five Quarters of the Orange. My local library also has a good selection of her works so I'll probably get to them someday. Do you recommend any in particular?

Those three are my favorites of all her works. So you have the best ahead of you!

Five Quarters of the Orange was the first that I read, which started the whole ball rolling. On her website, Harris says it's her favorite of all her books.

I loved Chocolat. It takes place at Easter, and if it fits your schedule, I would read it then. There's a sequel, The Girl With No Shadow, that's good too. I like Chocolat better.

It's been awhile since I read Blackberry Wine. I can't remember what time of year it takes place...

category 3- F&SF (2 of 3)

The Dispossessed by Ursula K Le Guin (3 Feb - 6 Feb)

This SF classic is a look at differing societies as seen through the eyes of Shevek, a physicist from the world of Anarres. The differences between his home and its sister world of Urras bring to mind the questions of what makes a successful society. Is it to submerge your own freedom in order to build a world where everyone shares or to live in a hierarchical capitalist society?

When his work as a physicist is no longer possible to continue on his home world Shevek travels to Urras believing that all men should share his discoveries. His idealism is tested in this different society.

Ursula Le Guin has created a masterpiece of fiction. Shevek's life, hopes and dreams unfold against two well crafted worlds. As we follow him the age old question of what makes us human — work, friends and family — and how we fit into our own world are brought to mind. This is a work to be thought about.

Thanks for the reply VictoriaPL. I'll probably read them all this year but I'm trying to space out similar reads - so just before Easter sounds good for Chocolat.

category 9 - historical fiction (1 of 9)

World Without End by Ken Follett ( 16 Jan - 8 Feb)

Covering the period 1327 to 1361, this medieval history tells of the years of Edward III. His wars with France, including the battle of Crecy, and the Black Death. Returning to the fictional town of Kingsbridge once again we have the conflict between church and town as times change. Follett gives us a real feel of the struggles to live as peasant, craftsman, tradesman, nobleman or a member of the church. The question of whether the prior owns the town or the lord his serfs versus the needs of the people to live and love, work and feed their families. How much should traditional ideas be able to influence life against the ability of man to innovate and change?

I found this an interesting book. Some of the characters might be perceived as having no redeeming qualities but overall I believe that it is a good portrait of people - their ability to do good or bad; to make the wrong decisions in life; to change and to make a difference.

The dispossessed was my top read last year. Glad you enjoyed it.

Had to choose a category for this one as it would fit into two but in the end I decided to put it here:-

category 6 - mysteries (2 of 6)

The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon (8 Feb - 11 Feb) Translated from Spanish by Lucia Graves.

This is a picture of post civil war Barcelona seen through the eyes of a boy as he finds mystery, love and pain. When Daniel is taken to the Cemetery of Forgotten books he discovers The Shadow of the Wind by Julian Carax, an author he has never heard of, but this is a dangerous book to have as someone is trying to destroy Julian's works. As Daniel begins to uncover the story of Julian's life he finds his own life under threat and strangely mirroring that of Julian.

A book about books, stories and love. The love of parents for children; first love; passion and family. The intertwining stories gives it depth and a rich feel. As the mystery is uncovered each new piece of information adds another layer to this story. A wonderful book.

I'm glad to hear you enjoyed this one; it's on my list for this year too.

Just put The Shadow of the Wind on my 'think about' list at the public library. (Already have a lot of books on my request list!)

Edited to fix stupid typo.

#85 & 86

cmbohn and hailelib - I hope you both enjoy it.

category 4 books - translated into English (1 of 4)

Japanese A Cat, a Man and Two Women by Junichiro Tanizaki (12 Feb - 13 Feb) translated by Paul McCarthy

My first foray into Japanese literature. Written between the First and Second World Wars this is a collection of one novella and two short stories.

The first is "A Cat, a Man and Two Women". In this we see the relationship between Shozo and the women in his life — his mother, first and second wives and Lily, the cat of the title. The second story is about a schoolteacher and how his aspirations wither as the demands of family life overpower his dreams. The third is a strangely voyeuristic piece written in two parts — the first part is an interview between a journalist and a professor and the second is about what happens when they meet again a few years later.

All three pieces are interesting snapshots of life. Of the three my favourite is the first. It is a story of love and rivalry and I like the descriptive nature of this. (4 stars) The second with its schoolteacher losing control of his own life I give 3 1/2 stars. The third was slightly disappointing, only a 3 star read. So overall a worthwhile introduction to Japanese literature.

category 6-mysteries (3 of 6)

The Interpretation of Murder by Jeb Rubenfeld (21 Feb - 23 Feb)

A historical, murder mystery. New York 1909 and Freud, Jung and others are visiting in order to give lectures at a university. This visit coincides with the murder of a young socialite and another attack that leaves a girl, alive, but with similar wounds. A young American psychotherapist is given the task of analysing the victim.

Rubenfeld mixes his fictional characters and events with real people and events. He provides a detailed portrait of New York and its society but, too often, it feels like too much information — which disrupts the flow of the story. The characters also felt rather flat, for me the most likeable being the young detective assigned to the case. The story was interesting enough to keep me reading and there were moments when it felt like it could have been a good book but, on the whole, it turned out to be nothing special.

category 4 books -translated into English (2 of 4)

Norwegian Sophie's World by Jostein Gaarder translated by Paulette Moller (1 Mar - 3 Mar)

What to say about Sophie's World? Bizarre, compelling, fascinating. It all starts when Sophie finds a postcard in her letterbox asking "Who are you?". More postcards follow, then a course in philosophy and also letters to another girl, Hilde.

As an introduction to philosophy this book gives a comprehensive overview, from Aristotle to Satre. The way the developing world has shaped how we think — concepts, ideas and morality. As a story things become increasingly surrealistic as Sophie's world takes on the flavour of these various philosophies.

Truly weird and wonderful and well worth reading.

Sophie's World got a flurry of rave reviews when it came out a few years ago and then I forgot all about it. My mother has a copy. I need to borrow it.

hi kristenn. I tend to avoid the raved about books until the fuss has died down, saves me from the potential disappointment ;-)

Heh! I have a whole category devoted to passed hypes! :-)

category 7 - I want to know more (2 of 7)

The Lords of Avaris by David Rohl (12 Feb - 7 Mar)

When I spotted this at the library it was a must read. Looking at how myths and legends can be tied to a real chronological account of ancient history David Rohl has written a successful thesis. Taking in to account archaeology; linguistics and original sources Rohl presents a picture of the past that is worth revisiting. The migrations; wars and lives of a past that has been seen as legendary is presented in a new context.

Back in the nineteenth century it was decided that the dating system based on Egyptian records was the way to date the ancient world. This led to the idea of the Greek Dark ages and dating the Trojan war to the 12th century BC. A reinterpretation of that has led Rohl and others to the conclusion that this is a basically flawed idea.

I have some reservations about the way he has presented his ideas; mainly in the way he writes — not in the actual interpretation of the data he uses. If you are interested this is a fascinating subject and well worth reading.

category 2 - LT inspired and Group reads (1 of 2)

Briar Rose by Jane Yolen (5 Mar - 7 Mar)

All I knew going into this book was that the fairy tale Sleeping Beauty was somehow linked to a tale of the holocaust. What I read was more than that. This is a deceptively simple book that shows the importance of story as metaphor for life. How the memories of atrocity are hidden and buried. The people of the small Polish town who will not speak of the past; the grandmother who conceals her own history in the guise of a fairytale and Becca's own search for her roots and a sense of family.

Becca's grandmother Gemma is dying, the one constant in her life was the continued retelling of the story of Briar Rose. After Gemma's death Becca finds she knew very little about her grandmother's past and follows the clues from the story and the contents of a box - a man's signet ring; some photographs; newspaper clippings and some names on an entry form to the USA. What unfolds is a story of survival that leads her to Poland and the horrors of the Death Camps of World War 2.

A well told story; well worth reading.

category 10- USA and other counties (3 of 10) India

Midnight's Children by Salman Rushdie (5 Mar - 19 Mar)

I tried to read this in the eighties and failed but when I saw a copy I decided to give it a second shot and I am pleased I did. It sat on the shelf for a while until, spurred on by the Group Read (in the 75 Book Group), I once again picked it up and, very soon, was lured into the world of India.

Our narrator, Saleem Sinai, is born on the stroke of Midnight on the day of India's independence from British Rule. Going back to his Grandfather's story we are introduced to a cast of intriguing characters as India struggles for its freedom.

Rushdie's powerful imagery and style of writing perfectly describes a young boy's bewildered growing up. From India to Pakistan and back to India Saleem's story intersects with important moments in history. As he tells his story we are swept away. A truly wonderful book.

category 8-myth and legend (3 of 8)

The Book of the Thousand and One Nights by Richard Burton. (10 Feb - 21 Mar)

This is probably not the best collection in the world but this is a small selection of stories from the Arabian Nights. Here we have a whole world of magic; men and Djinn; good and evil; trickery and romance. A fascinating glimpse of how that society has been entertained for generations. Burton's translation is old-fashioned but, to me, that adds to the hold that these stories still have for us.

category 9-historical fiction (3 of 9)

Flint by Margaret Redfern (21 Mar - 22 Mar)

What a fascinating book. The memories of Will, mainly about the year he (an eleven year old boy) and his brother are amongst a group of men sent off to dig the foundations of one of Edward I's new castles in Wales. Interspersed with memories of other times of his life this reads like the reminiscences of an old man looking back at a pivotal point in his life. The choices made and the direction of his life give us a glimpse of medieval history. Wonderful, lyrical, descriptive prose gives a real feel for the times.

Even though this says 5 of 5 I haven't completed the category, as I am still reading Herodotus and Suetonius, but I'm still going to be reading a lot more on this subject.

category 5-ancient history, prehistory and early civilisations (5 of 5)

Civilization Before Greece and Rome by H.W.F. Saggs (13 Mar - 25 Mar)

In this book H.W.F. Saggs shows us the foundations of civilization. Easy to read and understand this is a good overview of life in the three thousand centuries between 3,500 and 500 BC. Evidence from Mesopotamia; Egypt; Syria and Palestine; the Indus Valley and Crete are brought together.

An opening chapter gives us information about the uncovering of these early civilizations and the people who deciphered the writings left behind. Then each chapter is devoted to a different aspect of what makes a society. An abundant use of source material shows us the development of cities, writing, technology, agriculture, laws, maths and religion; the importance of trade and the drift of ideas.

An informative and well written book.

category 9 - historical fiction (4 of 9)

This could have gone in another category (translated) but, looking at the numbers, I better put it here.

The Forest of Hours by Kerstin Ekman (translated by Anna Paterson) (24 Mar - 29 Mar)

A very atmospheric and sad story. Skord is a troll who lives in the forest but, as human life encroaches, he becomes involved with what it is to be human. His life and travels; hopes and dreams become more and more intertwined as time goes on. He ages slowly, passing as a child as people he knows grow old and die.

This is not a story about the nicer things in life. We meet outlaws; prostitutes; armies; alchemists - all have their influence on Skord. He learns and dreams of becoming a doctor but fate conspires against him and he returns again and again to the forest of his birth. Time is uncertain; as years pass we see the changes but is there any hope for love and life.

Fascinating, bleak and slightly surreal. A wonderful book that I'll definitely want to read again - some day.

category 10- USA and other counties (4 of 10) (India)

A River Sutra by Gita Mehta (31 Mar - 2 Apr)

This is a wonderful little book simply telling the story of a retired civil servant who now manages a guest house on the banks of the Narmada - India's holiest river. The search for an escape from the world has brought the narrator to this place but there are still lessons to be learnt. Over the course of the book we are briefly introduced to other characters and their stories; like the river they move on. This is a picture of the various religions of India; the sacred songs; life and music. Mehta has brought to life the multifaceted culture and history of India in an exquisite gem of a book.

I read the book by Saggs last year and enjoyed it.

I loved Kerstin Ekman's Rövarna i Skuleskogen (The forest of hours)! Your review makes me want to reread it.

hailelib - It's a good one. As I was reading I thought it would be a good introductory text for a course in Ancient History.

Gingerbreadman - I'm just pleased it was translated. Definitely a writer whose other books I'll be looking out for.

Civilization before Greece and Rome just got added to my wishlist - ancient history is one of my favorite subject - thanks for the recommendation.

category 4 - books translated into English (fact or fiction) (3 of 4)

The Book of Chameleons by Jose Eduardo Agualusa (translated by Daniel Hahn) (8 Apr - 10 Apr) Portugese

This is a fascinating story. Part history, part dream this novel has layers that surprise. Agualusa examines the importance of memory; the past and how it affects lives.

The narrator is a gecko living on a wall - with memories of life as a man; his observations of the characters that enter the house and dreams of conversations with those people. The house belongs to an inventor of pasts. This is post civil war Angola and politicians and business men want a more acceptable heritage, minor tweaks to their backgrounds. When someone comes who wants more - a complete new history - a deeper story unfolds.

category 10- USA and other counties. (5 0f 10) Canada.

Cat's Eye by Margaret Atwood (10 Apr - 13 Apr)

This is a novel about growing up and the relationships of a girl to the people around her, some good and some bad. For me Atwood is wonderful at evoking time and place, this time we are in Toronto after the Second World War.

Elaine Risley is an artist invited to a retrospective of her work. Returning to Toronto we see her life unfold. This novel deals with the problems of memory and how she has suppressed certain aspects of her life. We learn why she has become the woman she is.

This is an almost painful book to read. The casual cruelty of young girls; the bullying and Elaine's attempts to fit in to their society build slowly but inevitably into a fully realised life.

category 9 - historical fiction (5 of 9)

Lion of Ireland by Morgan Llywelyn (14 Apr - 18 Apr)

A fictional account of the life of Brian Boru, the man who united Ireland at the end of the 900's. Morgan Llywelyn has taken what is known about his life and created a well-rounded picture of the times. The landscape, people and beliefs are well described. The more fictional elements are about the women in his life, as not much is known of his first wife. But all the details fit together to make up a believable image of a flawed man who had a vision of what life could be.

category 6-mysteries (fact or fiction) (4 of 6)

Alias Grace by Margaret Atwood (27 Apr - 30 Apr)

Based on a true murder story this book is a slice of life well worth reading. Grace Marks is serving life in prison for her part in the murders of her employer and his housekeeper. As she tells her story to a doctor hired by a committee dedicated to gaining Grace's release we are treated to a tale of nineteenth century life. From her days in Ireland; immigration with her impoverished family to Canada; her life in service; the murders and culminating in her life in the Penitentiary, Grace's story is compelling.

For me one of Atwood's strengths is her ability to convey a real sense of time and place. Her characters are multidimensional and her writing stunning.

category 9-historical fiction (6 of 9)

The Stone Carvers by Jane Urquhart (3 May - 6 May)

From the 1860's to the 1930's this book looks at settlers in Canada. A small, mainly Bavarian, community in the backwoods is at the heart of the story. The vision of the priest sent to this community and his dream to build a church; the woodcarver who helps him and the woodcarver's descendants. Escaping from troubles and the threat of war in nineteenth century Europe some of these descendants are pulled back to conflict with the outbreak of the First World War.

A story of love and obsession. Klara the woodcarver's granddaughter is in love with a young Irishman who goes to war. She also wants to carve but her grandfather's attention is on her brother who runs away from home. Eventually love and redemption comes at the Vimy Memorial in France. Amongst this fictional story we see the obsession of Walter Allward — the Canadian sculptor who created the Vimy Memorial to the missing Canadian soldiers of the First World War.

This is a wonderful story. Urquhart has created a fascinating insight into the lives of her characters. There are many layers such as weaving Klara's story with the founding of the community; the dreams of the priest with those of King Ludwig of Bavaria; the vision of Allward and the lives of the masons and sculptors who realise his dream.

I'll definitely be looking for more of this author's works.

Category completed as far as I am following the stepped version of this challenge. I still have more books on the TBR that will fit into this category though.

category 4 - books translated into English (fact or fiction) German (4 of 4)

Steppenwolf by Hermann Hesse (6 May - 9 May) translated from the German by Basil Creighton

I've been thinking about this one wondering what to say about it and I'm still not sure that my thoughts are clear. Set in Germany between the wars this is the story of Harry Haller. Disillusioned by the First World War and the inevitable thought that there is another war looming; divorced and drifting — he takes rooms in a boarding house. Filling his days with drink, books and music he contemplates suicide; a meeting with a girl leads him into a world that he has discounted as frivolous and pointless. A world of dancing; jazz; sex and drugs.

In part a philosophical treatise on what it is to be human; the myriad aspects of a person's being. In part a look at the missed opportunities in life; the paths missed and not taken. This is a compelling piece of fiction; uncomfortable to read in places but one I am pleased to have read.

category 7 - I want to know more - books inspired by reading fiction, non-fiction or (if stuck) fiction - sequel (3 of 7)

After reading Lion of Ireland I decided that I would like to know more about the Vikings so I read:-

The Vikings by Else Roesdahl (22 Apr - 10 May)

A scholarly study of the Vikings. Split into short chapters about the various aspects of life; such as — the society and culture; trade and war; travel and settlements.

The far reaching influence of the Vikings is more than just the common impression of raids and piracy and Else Roesdahl presents their history in an informative way. I did find this heavy going in places, rather a dry approach to a fascinating subject. There are some good illustrations; maps; black and white photographic plates and a comprehensive bibliography. A good starter book on this subject but, as she admits herself, there are new archaeological finds and, as this was originally written in 1987, I expect there is more known now than is covered by this book.

Seems like I got to Steppenwolf before you did and I can understand you having to think about it quite a bit. Here's what I eventually put down after I'd finished:

I found myself skip-reading the longer philosophical sections of this book but can appreciate at least part of what it was trying to say. Incredibly well written but not one for me. 3*'s

Hi Wolfy - it's definitely an interesting book. I think I liked it slightly more than you did and didn't mind the philosophical sections. It was just quite bizarre in places and the last section was very surreal.

category 10- USA and other counties. 20th-21st Century (6 of 10) Afghanistan

A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini (11 May - 13 May)

This account of the recent history of Afghanistan is compelling reading. Told through the eyes of two women - Mariam, the illegitimate daughter of a business man, and Laila, the loved daughter of a teacher - the changing fate of the country is the backdrop to a powerfully harrowing story. Twenty years separate the two but their lives lead them to be married to the same man, Rasheed; a man who soon finds fault with the women. The lives of the people of Afghanistan are encapsulated within the walls of Rasheed's house. As regimes change and years of fighting take their toll the oppression of his wives mirrors the fate of the country.

Hosseini is a gifted story teller. This is a brutally honest story but even here there is love - love of a child; love of a country and, maybe, just a touch of hope that things will change.

Good review, I absolutely loved this book when I read it last year. As much as I liked his first book, The Kite Runner, I thought A Thousand Splendid Suns was better, less contrived and very real.

Hi, DeltaQueen50, I haven't read The Kite Runner yet but it's on the find list. Hearing that you think A Thousand Splendid Suns is better means that I'll leave it a while. Still got lots of books to read;-)

category 9-historical fiction (7 of 9)

Storyteller by G.R. Grove (13 May - 15 May)

G. R Grove is a storyteller herself. This first in a trilogy gives us a real feel of post-Arthurian Britain, taking what little is known of this period she has managed to create an atmospheric world.

Looking back Gwernin Kyuarwyd tells us about a year in his life, Sixteen years old and travelling around 6th century Wales with his friend Ieaun he tells his stories at various festivals; lord's halls and shepherd's huts. Dreaming of being a bard, and having many misadventures along the way, Gwernin is a very realistic young man and the feel of the country and times is strong.

As I finished my immediate thought was that "I want to know more" and, to me, that is a sign that this is a series well worth following.

category 9-historical fiction (8 of 9)

Credo by Melvyn Bragg (18 May - 27 May)

Weaving the known historical facts of the latter half of the 7th century with his own imagination Bragg has created an epic read. Telling the story of the conflict of the Celts; Picts and native British against the Saxon invaders in 7th century BC Britain; also the differences between the Celtic church and the Roman Catholic church. This is a time that shaped Britain. Love and belief, both Pagan and Christian; the ambition of men to rule and to use religion towards that end; the missions to convert people to one belief and the idea that the one true belief comes from Rome and the Pope combine to form a compelling story. The central character is Bega, an Irish princess, who is forced to flee to Britain where she becomes a nun. Her tutor Padric, a Celtic prince, returns to his homeland in the north of Britain determined to expel the invading Saxons.

A wonderful story. The hardship of life; the landscape; the beliefs of his characters are all well described. The story is believable and reflects the times. If you are at all interested in this period of history this book is well worth reading.

Melvyn Bragg writes books? And ones that sound pretty good? I thought he was just a radio guy. Adding to the wishlist...

Hi Jennifer - yes he writes books. This is the only one of his I've read though. He seems to do his research well and this was a fascinating subject for me.

category 6-mysteries (fact or fiction) (5 of 6)

The City and The City by China Mieville (27 May - 29 May)

WOW! Amazing story. Mieville has taken a murder mystery and created a setting so bizarre and surreal that he challenges the ideas of nationality and cultural identity.

The body of a young woman is found in a run-down area of the city of Beszel, somewhere in Eastern Europe. Inspector Tyador Borlu is assigned to the case and his investigations cross borders and lead him to a place he never thought to be.

This book isn't so much about the characters but the setting. Seen through Tyador's eyes we investigate this strange world; the possible and impossible. Mieville's talent is to make this world feel real, plausible and fascinating. Wonderful storytelling, I loved it.

Hi Calm,

122 I really loved City and the City too, very clever setup and wonderful manipulating of the readers point of view.

and sadly also didn't know Melvin Bragg wrote books but he seems to have written loads! Adding Credo to the wishlist, thanks for the great review.

category 7 - I want to know more (4 of 7)

After reading Credo I thought that it would be good to know more about the Celtic church in Britain so I read:-

The Celtic Alternative by Shirley Toulson (29 May - 6 June)

This is subtitled "A Reminder of the Christianity We Lost" and looks at the roots of the Celtic version of Christianity; what influenced these early Christians and how they lived their lives. Linking to Druidism and the desert dwelling Coptic Christians, Celtic Christianity developed in a way close to nature and the community; unlike the more dictatorial, hierarchical Roman church. The differences finally led to the Council of Whitby in 664 AD, where King Oswy of Northumbria decided in favour of the Roman church.

Shirley Toulson looks at the links between the old Druidic religion and the Christianity that was heavily influenced by the old way of life. Taking over the sacred sites and wells in some ways this was a continuation of the old not a usurpation. Inspired by pilgrimages to Jerusalem and into Egypt where the early Christians were living as hermits and setting up the first monastic settlements the Celtic Christians were inspired to echo this way of life.

From this Toulson draws comparisons between modern life and its need for a spiritual dimension. In some ways she has idealised this early form of Christianity but does show that some aspects of their lifestyle can be used today to create a more community orientated, sustainable lifestyle. A life in tune with nature.

I don't regret reading this but to be honest this isn't quite the book I was expecting to read. I was looking for a more historical explanation of the Celtic Church - its development and influences. That is there but in places Toulson's agenda and idealism is too dominant.

Hi clfisha, thanks for stopping by. Pleased to see another fan of The City and The City. I really must try to get hold of more of Mieville's books.

Bragg does seem to be a fairly prolific writer. The bad sex award (whatever it's called) makes me slightly wary of which ones I will read. I think I heard that The Maid of Buttermere is the one to avoid on that score;-)

>124 calm: I'd also like to know more about the early Celtic Christian Church. I was really fascinated by the little bits of information I ran into when I was reading about early Britain several years ago. I've made a note of this book, but I too would prefer an historical account.

Hi ivyd. Next time I'm at the local library I'm going to look and see if I can find anything. There are a couple of possibles - but one of them seems to be written by someone who writes a lot of fiction (if her LT page is anything to go by). I'll let you know if I find anything.

category 10- USA and other counties (7 of 10)

Nine Lives: in Search of the Sacred in Modern India by William Dalrymple (10 June - 13 June)

Nine lives; nine paths to spirituality in modern India; nine heartbreaking stories of individuals who hold on to tradition while India changes. The paths of these people are not easy — whether it is learning the sacred songs; sculpting the religious idols; living as a sacred prostitute or simply roaming the roads of India, forsaking home and family.

Dalrymple has travelled through India and talked to the people who have found a calling. Some through family tradition, carrying on as their ancestors did and trying to pass on their knowledge to the next generation; but the spread of education and technology means that their are now other paths to follow. Some to find a new life and community, even when their families object. What brings these stories together is the joy that many find in the way of life they follow. The acceptance of the community for these differing ways; a degree of religious tolerance that has lasted centuries. There are and have been challenges - the Chinese invasion of Tibet and the suppression of the Buddhist monasteries; Partition and the splitting of Muslim and Hindu; the Taliban and extremist views; the thought that traditions are mere superstition. Is India going to lose part of that long standing multi-religious tradition or will these paths always exist?

This was a fascinating glimpse of a culture. Dalrymple has a wonderful ability to tell these tales in a non-judgemental way, capturing the essence of nine characters and their paths in life.

Great review of Nine Lives. Dalrymple is one of my favourite travel writers, so I'm glad to hear he has another book out.

category 10- USA and other counties. 20th-21st Century. (7 of 10) - Africa

The White Rhino Hotel by Bartle Bull (21 June - 24 June)

Kenya just after the First World War has been opened up to ex-service men who are given a chance for land and a new life. Africa is harsh but beguiling and the characters reflect this. The shifting points of view allow us to see this world through different eyes as a cast of opportunists, established settlers, natives and newcomers fill the pages of this book.

Bartle Bull knows this land and tells the history of a few years at a pivotal point in time. As a picture of life this is a wonderful piece of storytelling. The love for a country and hope of life is captured in such a way that I was drawn into the story and hoped that things would end well. I must say that few of the characters are actually likeable all the time, and some of the violence (and sex) is sadistic, but that was all part of the highly descriptive nature of this book. In the end I found this book gritty and hard but also strangely appealing, just like Kenya.

category 9 - historical fiction (9 of 9)

Watermark : A Novel of the Middle Ages by Vanitha Sankaran (8 July - 11 July)

The early fourteenth century; Southern France and a girl is born. Albino and mute she must make her way in a world of suspicion of heresy and witchcraft. The attention of inquisitors has been drawn to the small town where she lives. Her father's craft of paper making is looked on as a way for heresy to be spread. What protection is there for one so different?

Vanitha Sankaran's historical novel is an interesting book, well researched and well written. The feel of the times; the people; crafts and ideas are described acurately (as far as I can tell). Auda, the protagonist, is naive; intelligent and a well developed character. The conflict of family and societies expectations unfold in a tale that could have taken place.

A good debut novel and I look forward to reading more of Vanitha Sankaran's work.

category 6-mysteries (6 of 6)

Fingersmith by Sarah Waters (11 July - 12 July)

Set in Victorian England this story of two girls and how their lives become intertwined was definitely very readable. I was caught in the story straight from the start. I can't say too much about the plot as anything I might say would be spoilerish. Wonderful descriptive prose and a twisted plot line make this an atmospheric, almost gothic read. Just great storytelling and a compelling read.

132 And one of my all time favourite gasp moments on top of that!

over target with this category;)

category 6-mysteries (fact or fiction) (7 of 6)

The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield (15 July -16 July)

Margaret Lea lives in a flat above her father's antiquarian bookshop. She helps to look after the books and writes biographies based on the diaries of the long dead and forgotten. Vida Winter is a reclusive best selling novelist who has told as many different stories about her early life as she has given interviews. Margaret is invited to write Miss Winter's biography. What follows was as compelling as Margaret's reaction to her first reading of the Thirteen Tales of Change and Desperation - a collection of short stories based on fairytales.

This is a wonderful mystery. A tale of a family living in an old crumbling house. A tale of secrets. If you like gothic stories; if you like classic literature; if you like a well told story read the Thirteenth Tale.

Hi GingerbreadMan - There were some shocking moments in Fingersmith. I'm sure I gasped more than once:)

I just loved Fingersmith it may very well turn out to be one of my top reads of this year, although I've had some pretty good reads.

I have The Thirteenth Tale sitting on my TBR shelf but unfortunately it just keeps getting by-passed, I will have to give it a little nudge.

I seem to be going over target in a few categories.

category 4 - books translated into English (5 of 4)

Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress by Dai Sijie

In 1970's China intellectuals are looked on with suspicion and their children sent away. In this novel two teenage boys are sent to a remote mountain village for re-education. The nameless narrator tells the story of his and his friend Luo's time adapting to village life; their trials and tribulations; the impact they have on the village and their relationship with the titular little Chinese seamstress. Finding a forbidden cache of books changes their lives.

This novel gives a real feel of life at this time. The muck, the lice, the villagers hunger for stories. Life isn't easy but their are moments of humour; chances of love and the hope that they will be one of the few people sent for re-education who get away from the village and back to their families.

If, like me, you know very little about this time and place in history this is a good place to learn something about the impact of Mao on China, its culture and people.

category 4 - books translated into English (6 of 4)

One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich by Alexander Solzhenitsyn (27 July)

This is a day in a work camp in 1950's Russia. Just one day, one simple day. Following one man's day - the hardships and the pleasures. It's cold but not cold enough not to work. There's food but never quite enough. Deceptively simple this book is powerful. Solzhenitsyn has created a picture of a life that I'll never experience, made it real, stark and compelling but ultimately uplifting in its portrayal of life.

Ivan has stuck in my mind more than any other book I've read, and I have reread it a few times without it losing it's potency.

RidgewayGirl - It's definitely a keeper. I'll have to read it again one day.

I second RidgewayGirl's comment about Ivan. Very moving and powerful stuff, in all it's matte-of-fact-ness. Dai Sije's book is yet unread on my shelf, glad to hear you liked it!

category 10- USA and other counties. 20th-21st Century. (8 of 10) Japan

An Artist of the Floating World by Kazuo Ishiguro (15 August - 16 August)

My first Ishiguro and it won't be my last. A memoir of an ageing artist in post WWII Japan, this is a gently unfolding story. I love the picture of the country as it deals with the consequences of the war and the guilt felt by certain people.

Told purely through the eyes of Masuji Ono, the artist of the title, it is a story that reveals his youth and idealism. A portrait of a life that has changed, his confusion at those changes; his relationships with family and friends, his teachers and students. I found this a powerful story and loved it.

Welcome to the club of Ishiguro admirers! You have many more pleasurable reads ahead of you.

Thanks wrmjr66. I'm sure that I do:)

I have Ishiguro's Never Let Me Go in my TBR pile. Might have to move that up and find a category - even if it's miscellaneous. And may have to put this one on my wishlist.

category 10- USA and other counties. 20th-21st Century. (9 of 10)

Kanthapura by Raja Rao (19 August - 21 August) India

If you are at all interested in the history of India I recommend that you read Kanthapura. Set in 1930's India, the story of the lives of the inhabitants of a small village are told by a nameless narrator. The impact of Mahatma Gandhi's ideas bring change. I must admit to not knowing much about this period of history or Gandhi's influence on the lives of the people of India. It did take me a short time to get used to the narrative style - heavily influenced by the traditional story telling of India - but it made the characters seem real. A very interesting book.

category 10- USA and other counties. 20th-21st Century. (10 of 10) Bougainville (Papua New Guinea)

Mister Pip by Lloyd Jones (24 August -25 August)

A fascinating insight into the effect of civil war on a group of South Pacific islanders. Told through the eyes of Matilda, a child on Bougainville in the 1990's. The eccentric Mr Watts, the last white man in the area after an evacuation, takes on the role of school teacher. He brings his love of Charles Dickens' Great Expectations, the only book they read, and invites the local adults to tell of anything they find of interest. But the violence and atrocities of civil war are not far away.

This is a wonderful coming of age story. The way that Pip from Great Expectations captures the imagination of the children; the uncertainty of a village caught between rebels and blockaders; the traditional way of life and the effects of colonialism - all combine in a way that is simple yet compelling. Matilda has a great "voice" and the events seem to unfold naturally.

>147 calm: I read Mister Pip earlier and really enjoyed it.

When I read Mister Pip I was impressed with how well Jones managed to convey the story through Matilda. Glad to see you enjoyed it as well.

thornton37814 and lkernagh

Hello, Pleased to see you here. Mister Pip was a good one.

category 5-ancient history, prehistory and early civilisations. (1 of 5)

Well it is the first book I started in this category!

This has lived on my bookshelf for longer than I care to remember and I finally got around to reading the whole thing as part of my 1010 challenge, in a group read. So thanks to everyone else who took part and helped to keep me on track.

The Histories by Herodotus (1 January - 8 September)

What to say about this book? Called the Father of History Herodotus wrote down his thoughts on the causes of the Greek/Persian conflict in the 5th century BC. Often digressing from his main story, full of anecdotes, and very entertaining in some way it reminded me of an old man sitting in a pub, telling stories, and someone saying "You should write a book".

This is a work of vast scope, not just history -anthropology, geography, traveller's tales; eye witness accounts; rumour and hearsay - all combine in a wonderful way that brings to life the events, thoughts and beliefs of people who lived two and a half thousand years ago. Still fresh and readable. I must admit to getting bogged down by the enormous cast of characters that take part in the war but I really enjoyed the background stories of the various peoples that Herodotus talks about.

I think that anybody could read and enjoy this. It is a true classic. One word of caution though - I read the Penguin Classic Aubrey de Selincourt translation which does not have much additional information. From what I've heard the Landmark Herodotus would have been a great help in keeping all those people and places straight.

Great job on finishing that one! I'm so impressed!

Thanks cmbohn. It was a mostly enjoyable, occasionally frustrating read. Having the group read really helped.

OK I got sidetracked by other books but I finally finished:-

category 8-myth and legend (4 of 8)

The Mabinogion translated by Lady Charlotte Guest (19 May - 3 October)

A collection of 12 Welsh tales translated by Lady Guest in the early twentieth century. These are classics of the Welsh culture, including many Celtic and Arthurian themed stories. Maybe Lady Guest's prose seems a bit dated but that is in keeping with the antiquity of these stories. This is a wonderful glimpse of Celtic and Dark Age life.

I'm not doing very well with the strict rules I set myself for this category so I think I am going to allow myself to include the re-tellings from myth and folklore that I have already read this year.

category 8-myth and legend (5 of 8)

The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni (1 June - 4 June)

Creating a world of myth and magic; prophecy and war; The Palace of Illusions is a wonderful piece of storytelling. A retelling of part of the Mahabharata from one of the female characters point of view. Many ancient myths and legends seem to disregard women except as wives and mothers; peripheral to the conflict of men and their honour. Divarakuni takes some of these women and fleshes them out to have their own dreams and desires; their own flaws; their own regrets.

Born from a ritual meant to bring a son to avenge the king, Panchaali is the unexpected daughter of Drupad and is first named Draupadi - which merely means daughter of Drupad. Born from fire she becomes a turning point in history. Her story is the centre of this book. Her longing for a place of her own; her desire to be loved for herself; the mistakes she makes; the decisions that shape a world.

This is a beautifully written story that reminds me that it is well past time for me to read the mythology that inspired it.

category 8-myth and legend (6 of 8)

Till We Have Faces : A Myth Retold by C. S. Lewis (26 September - 30 September)

Subtitled A Myth Retold this does what it says. Taking the story of Psyche and Cupid and retelling it from the point of view of Orual, Psyche's older sister. Actually it is Orual's story, her love for her sister; her questioning of the role of religion and gods in society and her development as a person. This is an example of excellent story telling, beautifully written with wonderful imagination.

category 8-myth and legend (7 of 8)

The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood (15 September - 16 September)

Margaret Atwood's take on The Odyssey looks at the wife left at home. Told from a point of view after her death Penelope wants to tell her story so Penelope, princess of Sparta, didn't have the best start in life :- daughter of the king and a water nymph she is susceptible to tears; later wife of Odysseus, who against custom takes her to his home where she has to cope with his parents and servants; cousin of the beautiful Helen, whose actions lead to Odysseus going away to war and being diverted on the way home. So for twenty years she waits fending off the men who want to take over the country and bringing up her son who is indulged by Odysseus's old nursemaid. Her only friends twelve serving maids.

I enjoyed this retelling of the Greek myth, using the traditional device of the Greek Chorus Atwood gives the maids a voice and Penelope's story is told in a witty way. Maybe there is not much depth in this short book but it was good for a minor character from the Iliad and Odyssey to have her story told.

category 2 - LT inspired and Group reads (2 of 2)

The Painted Darkness by Brian James Freeman (ER - read 19 October)

This is a short novella but it does tell a reasonably powerful story. With chapters alternating between Henry as an adult and one day in the life of Henry as a child; a pivotal day in his development as an artist; a day he has blanked out until left alone in a house with his paintings and an approaching nightmare.

Brian James Freeman has created a compelling tale of the force of imagination and creativity. How much do we create our own nightmares and how much truly comes from outside forces? I liked the way the story develops. It has a deceptive simplicity. One I will enjoy re-reading. Nice illustrations as well.

The Painted Darkness looks interesting.

Well, I liked it:)

Well I'm slowly getting there. My reading seems to have gone away from my chosen categories, to some extent:)

category 7 - I want to know more (5 of7)

The Time Traveller's Guide to Medieval England - Ian Mortimer (17 November - 30 November)

This does exactly what the title says, gives you information about Fourteenth Century England as if you could actually visit. Includes lots of helpful advice on how to survive and what life was like. A great social history - informative and accessible. The information is well presented - with endnotes; index and a bibliography which has some interesting sounding books for more in depth reading.

Started second but finished last in this category

category 5-ancient history, prehistory and early civilisations. (2 of 5)

The Twelve Caesars by Suetonius (4 January - 4 December)

This is an important source book for early Imperial Rome. It contains gossipy, salacious accounts of 12 Roman rulers. Suetonius's accounts of their lives is a fun read though he seems to prefer focusing on the bad side of things and even any positives are always outweighed by the nasty things that these men were rumoured to have done. This is pure propaganda but a worthwhile read.

Woo Hoo - another category finished!

category 8-myth and legend (8 of 8)

The Legend of Sigurd and Gudrun by J.R.R. Tolkien (15 December - 19 December)

Christopher Tolkien continues to dig into his father's papers and this time he has chosen to publish two poems based on Old Norse/ Germanic mythology. Tolkien has taken the form of traditional poetry in these languages and created a very readable version in (more or less) modern English. Christopher's use of notes; letters and snippets of his father's lectures help to put them into context.

I think this will be of interest to anyone with an interest in poetry; Norse/Germanic mythology and language. I really admire the way Tolkien managed to use the metre; alliteration and form of the original poetry to create his own versions of the legends.

Right this is the last category I need to finish. I'm definitely not going to get 2 non-fiction books read by midnight so I am using my "if stuck" clause. First up is the first in a duology (because I read the second one first). The second is from a series I've been reading for years and the latest book came out this year.

category 7 - I want to know more - books inspired by reading fiction, non-fiction or (if stuck) fiction - sequel (6 of 7)

The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver (27 December - 28 December)

Earlier this year I read my first Kingsolver, Pigs in Heaven, which is the sequel to this one and wanted to learn more about Taylor and Turtle. I don't think it was a major problem reading them in the wrong order, this is still a strong book. This is a wonderful novel about family and friendship. There are some heavy issues in the story but the writing is good enough so that they don't they feel preachy. I love Kingsolver's writing; her quirky characters and strong sense of place.

category 7 - I want to know more - books inspired by reading fiction, non-fiction or (if stuck) fiction - sequel (7 of 7)

Towers of Midnight by Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson

If you've followed the story so far I'm sure you are going to carry on to the end of the series and Brandon Sanderson is doing a very good job of pulling together the strands of the story that Robert Jordan started all those years ago. As the climax approaches we see the familiar characters preparing to face the Last Battle.

Given the sprawling nature of the story that Sanderson inherited I think he is doing well to mature the characters and plot-line, while still staying more or less true to the foundations set by Jordan. I can actually see the possibility that the next book will be the last and I don't think I'll be disappointed.

So that's it I've completed my 1010! Now it's time to set up my 1111 thread, when I've narrowed it down to 11 categories:)

Congratulations calm, you couldn't have timed it any better.

Thanks Dave:)

I'm just glad I added that "If stuck" to that category:)

It's always good to give yourself options.

Tipping the hat for your timing :)

>164 calm: I picked up The Bean Trees at the Goodwill Bookstore earlier this week. I read my first Kingsolver book this past year and loved it. I was also able to find Animal, Vegetable, Miracle in the same store.

Congrats on the finish.

167 ~Too True!

168 ~ By the skin of my teeth, GingerbreadMan:)

169 ~ She is a wonderful writer, I'll definitely be reading more of her work. Thanks for the congrats.

I've signed up to do this all again next year. You can find me here

http://www.librarything.com/topic/105963

Happy New Year to everyone. I hope you all have a year of good books, good health and good friends:)

Congratulations!