Whisper1 Fifth thread of 2021

The Painters Honeymoon by Pre Raphaelite artist Lord Frederick Leighton

BOOK #68


The Defining Moment FDR's Hundred Days and the Triumph of Hope by Jonathan Alter

The author is a very talented writer. In this book he outlines the triumphs and travails Roosevelt dealt with during his initial first term. Out of the dust bowl when unemployment was rampant, and California closed its doors to the Okie's (those seeking a better life who hailed from Oklahoma,) Alter portrays a very calm, self assured new president who knew there was much to do, and stayed the course to accomplish what was best for Americans suffering from lack of employment, basic needs, and the feeling of there was no hope.

The banks were closing, and the depression was upon the United States. From the beginning of his presidency, he stressed he did not believe in constitutional dictatorship, yet many of his opponents noted that when he felt it necessary, he did indeed act in a despotic manner.

Initiating "Fireside Chats," Roosevelt found an important way in which to encourage Americans to feel as though he was sitting in their living rooms.

An only child whose father was older when he was born, and died shortly thereafter, his mother Sara Delano Roosevelt spent her entire life dedicated to her baby! Exceedingly difficult for Eleanor Roosevelt, for the most part, she was able to remain distant and learned how to remain independent of both her mother in law, and her husband.

When Franklin developed polio, his mother tried to force him to stay home. It was Eleanor who pushed him into the goal of presidency.

This is a fascinating book that presents an overview of the difficult issues FDR faced and how he handled them.

Happy new thread, Linda. That book does sound great. I have watched a few documentary films on the Roosevelts, one by Ken Burns. I also have 2 books on Eleanor, one by her and one about her which I hope to get to one of these days.

Hi Shelly. Eleanor Roosevelt was way ahead of her time. An avid civil rights leader who when she was given tasks to help her husband in his presidency, made the treatment of black American's a mandate to make this a central issue. She also noted that women journalists were the ones whom she deemed capable of covering her stories. The Ken Burns documentary was outstanding!
I watching it again now that I've read so much about this historical time.

Happy new thread!

I got so distracted by >2 Whisper1: the first time I visited that I forgot to greet this thread.

BOOK #69


Mornings on Horseback by David McCullough.

McCullough is an excellent writer who wrote many books about American history. This is an extraordinary picture of the Roosevelts, their wealth, their commitment to philanthropy and the major impact they had on the United States.

Born into wealth, as a child Theodore Roosevelt suffered from severe asthma. His early memories were of his father walking him round his room, holding him in the hope that his love would overcome the nasty inability of his child to breathe. His early years were spent with his parents traveling to places where they thought the atmosphere would help him breathe.

His father was the first Theodore Roosevelt and told his son he needed to overcome his frail body and teach it to work according to what was needed to survive. Attractive, family centered, his namesake assimilated the traits of his father. Through example, Theodore learned the importance of giving, of sharing and moving forward with the goal of becoming an excellent leader, and a person who gave beyond measure.

Funding, building and helping to fill the Natural History Museum in NYC, this treasure stands today as a testimony to what money well spent can do. In addition, a fact I did not know, the Roosevelts were instrumental in building the Art Museum in NYC as well.

He became a robust man, who pushed his body to travel on horses, and to overcome what might have killed him as a child.

This is an excellent look at the historical period and those who shaped the history of the country!

Four Stars

>1 Whisper1: What a stunning painting in such a restricted palette Linda.

I've been to Leighton's house a few times. The Leighton House Museum. Currently it is closed for renovations.

https://www.artfund.org/whats-on/museums-and-galleries/leighton-house-museum

>6 Whisper1: I really enjoyed MCcullough's The Greater Journey.

Happy new thread, Linda!

Happy New Thread, Linda. Hooray for T.R. & FDR! I am a big fan of both.

Happy new thread!

Happy new thread and awesome reviews of awesome men! Love the intimacy of the painting up top and your cute granddaughters from the last thread. : )

Happy new thread! I haven't decided whether or not I'll end up reading McCullough's book on Teddy, but I'm glad to know it's a good one!

Happy new thread, Linda. The Roosevelt books sound great.

Happy New Thread, Linda!

Love love love the photos of Jack and hearing about his and Luke's successes.

And Bella and Maddie Grace are adorable!

I think your redecorating sounds wonderful. I got pretty stuck after the ex left suddenly a dozen years ago. There are still boxes of his stuff out in the garage even though he passed away several years ago.

I'm finally reading Shaun Tan's Tales From the Inner City. It is as wonderful as promised. I think you'd like it.

Your recent reads track mine. I really enjoyed The Defining Moment. I especially appreciated how Alter made clear the level of desperation present at the start of FDR's presidency. I have a copy of Mornings on Horseback near the top of my TBR pile.

>1 Whisper1: oh...I love this!!!!

Happy new thread, dear Linda.

Hi Linda, and happy new thread!

Yay for the redecorating and gardening.

Belated congrats for 75, too.

>7 Caroline_McElwee: Caroline, It is so very special to find someone who appreciates the Pre Raphaelites as I do. Thank you again, for sending these incredible links. I think the only Pre Raphaelite whose work I cannot totally enjoy is Dante. His works seem not as soft as others. Though I read a lot about his life. It is such a shame that Lizzie Siddal died of an opium overdose, perhaps as a result of her severe sadness of his many indiscretions.

The house of Leighton is stunning and breath taking. How fascinating that you were able to visit so many art museums which hold the paintings of the Pre Raphaelites, and visit the home of Leighton!

>5 quondame: Hi Susan.. Thanks for stopping by!

>8 FAMeulstee: Hi Anita! Thanks for stopping by

>9 msf59: Mark, once again, our reading tastes are the same!

>10 drneutron: Thanks Jim!

>11 Berly: Kim, I became the grandmother of four within 14 months. This June three of them graduate. Zoe, who is a year younger will graduate next year. My daughter holds her family together as a few years ago her husband of 25 years told her that he no longer wanted her, or the children. He has since spun out of control. Something none of us could have predicted. It is sad beyond words.

>12 thornton37814: Lori, I'm learning the fascinating lives of the Roosevelts. Theodore was the brother of Elliott (who was Eleanor's father.) He was instrumental in bringing his shy niece into society. FDR was drawn to her intelligence and stately manner.

>13 BLBera: Beth, I am learning a lot not only of the Roosevelts, but the historical period in which they lived. My latest read, to be posted later today, focuses on FDR's inability to commit to allow Jews to come into the US. It is a travesty, and a blight on American history.

>14 streamsong: Janet, how sad that you were stuck with so much after your husband left. I do understand how hard it is to begin a new. Will was wonderful in many ways, but I cannot canonize him as he was at times a very difficult person to live with.

>15 Oberon: Hi Erik, so very nice to see you here.

>16 fuzzi: Hi Fuzzi. I had a large framed print of this painting. Sadly, it was lost in one of my moves. After all my projects, I vow to find another and have it framed. The shading and the folds of the dress are exquisite.

>17 PaulCranswick: HI Paul. Wishing you all good things.

>18 karenmarie: HI Karen..Thanks, as always for your frequent visits.

I'm heading to the pain management office for a check up and assessment of the pain levels and the game plan for other injections, and renewal of prescriptions.

It is very hot today. We haven't had rain in two weeks. The earth is dry and I have to frequently water my roses.
Even Lilly doesn't want to go out and hide in her usual spot in the bleeding heart bushes.

Hi Linda my dear, happy new thread, sending love and hugs dear friend.

Happy New Thread Linda!

Teddy Roosevelt was a complicated guy both very progressive and also unfortunately a man of his time and class. Mornings on Horseback is a good place to learn about him.

There was a noble statue of him outside the New York Natural History Museum that was recently taken down because it showed Native Americans looking up worshipfully at TR striding along on horseback. Hoping the museum will find some new way to honor his commitment to the natural sciences.

>20 johnsimpson: Hi John. How is that beautiful grandbaby?
>21 magicians_nephew: Am I right that there is a statue of him inside the Natural History Museum, to the left as you enter?
It's been a long time since I was there.

Hi Linda my dear, Elliott is doing well and growing daily, we will see him on Sunday when we go over to see them, meanwhile here is a photo from the get together for Karen's birthday.

https://pics.cdn.librarything.com//picsizes/41/12/4112a294a2b79fd636d417579414368422f7345_v5.jpg 3x">

John, What a beautiful baby. Is his hair a tad red?

BOOK #70


1944: FDR and the Year That Changed History by Jay Winik

This is an amazing book which focuses of the meetings of Stalin, Churchill and Roosevelt. Primarily, the author notes again and again the lack of assistance to get Jews out of the clutches of Hitler and his henchmen. It truly was more important to Hitler to handle "the Jewish problem," than fighting to end the war.

Tragically, Roosevelt did very little to allow Jews to enter the United States. England, in the midst of continual night bombing, allowed ten thousand children (the Kindertransport,) to enter the country and be taken in by various English households.

The attitude of the United States and in particular, those who were anti sematic in Roosevelt's cabinet, who strongly advised Roosevelt to turn his back on this incredibly sad, tragic mission of the Nazi's.

Eleanor, the lovely person she was who fought not only for civil rights after the war, but repeatedly sent missives to FDR "What are you going to do?" Clearly, she knew something had to happen to save the Jews. She was indeed very disappointed in her husband.

As he attended many conferences about the distribution of Europe when the war ended, his health was in dire condition. He could barely function at the conferences.

Dear Linda, I can't catch up - certainly not with the last thread - but I think of you often and with gratitude for your indomitable, generous spirit. So there!!!!! I'll hope to be a better friend as we go on, but getting around here is hard. Take care of yourself!

Have you read the Blanche Wiesen Cook Eleanor R. biographies? I can vouch for the fine quality of the first one. It's only my random mind that has kept me from the second.

>24 Whisper1:, Hi Linda my dear, he is a beautiful baby but then i am biased. He does have a touch of auburn at the moment and it does run through the family on both sides.

We have just got back from seeing them, Elliott has been a little off it with colic the poor thing.

Hope that you are having a good weekend my dear and we both send love and hugs to you my dear friend.

>26 LizzieD: Dear Friend Peggy! So good to hear from you. Thank you for taking time to visit here. Much love to you.

>27 johnsimpson: John, Everyone told me that there is nothing like being a grand parent. They were right. I became a grandmother of four in 14 months. Oldest daughter (now 48) had twin boys, then became pregnant immediately and had beloved Zoe. Daughter Breanna, surprised me with a pregnancy when she was in college. Her gift of Kayla was the best thing ever. I will never forget Will taking her aside and telling her that no matter what her father said, she is to be commended for keeping the baby. Will became supportive of Breanna and Kayla from the time Kayla was born. She provided such joy and comfort to him, and Kayla was the love of his life. He died when she was 16.

BOOK #71


No Ordinary Time Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt: The Home Front in World War II by Doris Kearns Goodwin

A very good study in history, told by historian Doris Kearns Goodwin, this is not only a compilation of events leading to America's involvement in the European war, but, primarily, this is a in depth study of how Eleanor and Franklin worked together in sorting through what America needed to do to help Churchill and Stalin as the war progressed with no end in sight. Interestingly, Franklin depended upon Eleanor to gauge the feelings of American women who did not want their sons or husbands to take the chance of losing their lives by entering the war.

As they worked together, she visited the veterans in the hospitals, she traveled throughout the states to provide a solid presence to a country reeling from the depression. In direct contradiction to how their marriage could have fallen apart, Franklin grew to respect Eleanor as a strong, intelligent presence in his life.

When she discovered a packet of love letters from Lucy Mercer (her social secretary) to her husband, in her hurt, she demanded a divorce. The mother of six children, Eleanor was in deep grief that her husband's indiscretion occurred.

As a child she was called "Granny" by her very beautiful mother, who constantly let Eleanor know she was ugly. It was mentioned that since her mother and father were indeed a handsome couple, her mother verbally told her she did not understand how such an ugly child would be their biproduct. With teeth too big for her mouth, and an exceedingly shy personality, she marveled that Franklin would find her attractive and intelligent. All feelings of non worthiness flooded Eleanor from the minute she discovered the many letters that proved this to be a long-term relationship where the word "love" was used in every communication.

With an interfering mother in law in the picture, constantly nagging and forcing her wishes, Eleanor thought it fitting that this interloper should know her precious little boy grew to a man who was a cheater to his family. Noting she felt divorce was the only answer, Franklin's mother told him that if he continued this sordid relationship, all funds would be cut off. He would not ever receive another penny from her very rich coffers.

This large book chronicles the beginnings of America's involvement after Pearl Harbor was bombed and the war came to the shores of our country.

Compelling and wonderfully written, I highly recommend this book.

>29 Whisper1: Funny, I bought this recently Linda. Maybe Autumn reading pile.

Hi, Linda! I'm another visitor who doesn't have time to catch up, but wanted to say hello and wish you well.

>30 Caroline_McElwee: Caroline. We certainly have a lot in common...books...Pre Raphaelite art!

>31 tymfos: Hi Terri. I am so happy to see your message. I hope all is well with you. You were working on your Master's degree. Are you finished. If so, congratulations. And if you didn't finish it yet, congratulations as well for all the time and effort it takes to pull through.

BOOK #72

West with Giraffes: A Novel by Lynda Rutledge

This is a novel based on a true story of a pair of giraffes who sustained a hurricane while others were thrown overboard by the power of the gusts.

A fascinating book that held my attention throughout. I read it quickly, and like all books that I give five stars, I wanted to start reading all over again. I could only imagine the rapt attention given to these wild animals that many never knew existed. And, something to note is that along the way, there were precarious events wherein the necks of the giraffes were too high for some bridges that that men needed to navigate.

This is the tale of two men traveling across the country from the New York harbor where the Giraffes set shore, to the final destination of the San Diego Zoo. The time frame is 1938, pre WWII, with a backdrop of a poor young man who lost his family in the dust bowl.

Hired to drive the truck (even though he didn't really know how to drive a truck,) there were many adventures along the way, including a down and out traveling circus with a way-ward leader who wanted the giraffes for his raggle taggle operation.

Somehow, despite many nasty events, these giraffes did indeed, in real life, arrive at the zoo, to be greeted by the first woman director of a zoo.

Here is information gained from Wikipedia:

Belle Jennings Benchley (August 28, 1882 – December 17, 1973), known as “The Zoo Lady,” was the director of the San Diego Zoo from 1927 to 1953, guiding its expansion from a small collection of animals to an innovative, world-class zoo.

Highly recommended!

West with Giraffes sounds delightful, Linda. I've had No Ordinary Time on my shelves for years; maybe your wonderful comments will nudge me to pick it up. My summer reading list gets longer and longer...

Another strong recommendation for No Ordinary Time

>29 Whisper1: I've heard good things about that book. I may eventually read it, but I'm not going to try to do so right away.

>33 Whisper1: I saw reviews of that one, and it caught my interest. I'm not sure how I'll fit it in soon, but I'll keep it on my radar.

Hi Linda, I've been absent from LT for awhile but I wanted to let you know I'm thinking of you. I hope all goes well at the doctor's.

I have four grandchildren ages 3 - 18. I'm 77 years old with a 3 year old grandson. He's hard to keep up with but such a gift. You are right about grandparenting. It's our reward!

>34 BLBera: Hi Beth. Books are on the way, to be sent tomorrow afternoon.\

>35 magicians_nephew: Hi Jim....You and I have many books in common.

>36 thornton37814: Hi Lori. Thanks for visiting

>37 Oregonreader:. Hi Jan. How often do you get to see your grandchildren? Yes, the are such gifts. My partner of 20 years died April, 2019. He had such an incredible impact on grand daughter Kayla. He spent hours almost every day playing with her and the role she had as teacher to all her stuffed animals. They had a name for every one. She was the teacher. Will made a different voice for each stuffed animal and stayed with that throughout the years. Always, Kayla made "Handy Manny" the bad boy. Will would vow that Handy Manny would be a better boy. Each stuffed animal had a report card. A few days ago, I found the large box containing the stuffed animals, there little playmates (stuffed animals smaller than they,) and the report cards for each.

BOOK #73


In The Dark Streets Shineth: A 1941 Christmas Eve Story as told by David McCullough

The setting is Christmas Eve 1941. Churchill visited FDR in the White House. Surrounded by Roosevelt's family, and the beautiful lights displayed in Washington, DC near, and in the White House, while far from home, Churchill felt at ease. War raged throughout the world.

This is a story of a Christmas Eve when all bad memories were set aside, and the light of Christmas shone brightly. Both Churchill and FDR gave radio speeches, primarily about hope, about the message of love and peace.

The book contains stories behind the hymns "Oh Little Town of Bethlehem" and the sad, poignant song of the longing to be Home For Christmas.

The book contains a DVD with David McCullough telling the story of that very special night. In addition, there are black and white photos of the hope throughout the world. In particular, I found the image of a Christmas tree decorated in the open streets near Ederen, Germany.

This is a book to keep and enjoy each Christmas.

>38 Whisper1: what a wonderful find. And what a wonderful grandpa. I never knew my grandfathers.

>39 Whisper1: I like David McCullough when he is doing the writing himself and not just looking over the shoulders of his grad students. Sadly nowadays thats less and less the case.

I'll be looking for In the Dark Streets Shineth one of my favorite Christmas songs.

Years ago Judy turned me on to a mystery series where the titles are all titles of hymns. the first one was in The Bleak Midwinter another favorite hymn of mine for the holidays

> Hi Fuzzi. Like you, I never knew my grandfathers. My father's father died of TB; My mother's father died of a heart attack at 36.

I had an incredible grand mother. I am who I am because of her. And, I was blessed to know her mother (my great grand mother) who taught me, through the fact that she never knew how to read, and at the age of 75, read from the Dick and Jane books.

My father's mother was a large, imposing, brutish woman whom I never liked, and was very afraid of her. But, I do have a strong memory of going to the "Republican Club" with her on Saturday afternoons. Much to my mother's chagrin, I went and did not tell her I was going.

I remember my grandmother sitting at the bar with the boys (men), who would give me quarters to play six songs on the juke box. I remember playing Paper Roses, over and over and over again. I was nine years old. I also remember that they men would buy cheese cracks, and lots of bays of potato chips.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KP8XRYas5dE

>41 magicians_nephew: Jim, Interestingly, my favorite hymn is The Bleak Midwinter. Years after I sang this over and over, I discovered the Pre Raphaelite artists and learned that the poem The Bleak Midwinter from which the hymn was made, was written by Christina Rossetti, the sister of Gabriel Rossetti.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NNbe9sthLz4

BOOK #74


Discovering Dinosaurs In The American Museum of Natural History by Mark Norell, Eugene Gaffney and Lowell Dingus

This large, coffee table book, contains wonderful images of the authors who are paleontologists responsible for pulling together the incredible exhibit of an extensive collection of dinosaurs to be found in the new Hall of Dinosaurs in the NY Natural History Museum. A wide collection, painstakingly, bone by bone put together.

Using words, images and behind the scenes photos of this incredible work.

>42 Whisper1: my father's father had a heart attack shoveling snow before my parents got married. He was in his 50's. My mother's father had a heart attack/stroke/aneurism at age 66, just after he retired. I was 6, we lived in another state, and I have only one vague recollection of him from before.

I want to be there for my grands, have been contemplating moving closer once I retire.

BOOK #75


The Sun is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon

The is a beautiful YA book which interweaves two characters, both of whom were either born in the country to foreign parents -- Daniel, or Natasha who is an illegal immigrant from Jamaica.
They meet one day by chance, and throughout the day are very drawn to each other and spend time learning about the parents, the life and the beliefs of each other.

Natasha knows she will be soon deported back to Jamaica while Daniel feels the burden of Korean parents who push him to become a doctor.

Interesting enough for me to read this in one sitting.

Happy Saturday, Linda. Glad to see you reading such interesting nonfiction. I also enjoyed The Sun is Also a Star, despite it being a bit lighter than my usual fare.

BOOK #76


The Rainbabies by Jim LaMarche

Of all the many illustrated books I've read, it is very difficult to name a favorite. This is one that is at the top of the list.

Endearing, beautifully rendered, this is a story of an older man and woman who long for a child. Alas, that does not occur. A beautiful match of words and images work to produce a lovely book worth reading again and again.

One spring night, the old woman notices a streak of white light. She shook the old man awake saying that she's heard the moon shower brings good fortune to all who notice and touch it.

The rain was finished leaving in its departure tiny babies, a dozen of them in the wet blades of the grass. Beautiful to behold, and lovely to see, they note the tiny babies are no bigger than a big toe! The babies are loved, feed and tremendously enjoyed. The old man plays his harmonica to some of the babies, while his wife rocks the others.

Sadly, just as they gave their hearts to the beautiful, tiny babies, a knock on the door brings a large clocked figure who takes the babies away and places them in a large basket.

Heartbroken, they try to carry on with a lonely existence. One day a white shimmering light reveals a moonstone. As the man places it over his chest, a beautiful white shimmering woman appears. She thanks them for the good care she gave to the babies.
Recognizing they still crave a child, she gives them a baby girl, placed in the basket in the corner, she is loved.

Hi Linda my dear, congrats on reaching 75 books read for the year so far. I hope all is well with you my dear and that you are having a good start to the weekend, sending love and hugs to you from both of us dear friend.

>46 Whisper1: Congratulations on reaching 75, Linda!

>39 Whisper1: I enjoyed that one when I read it too!

Hello, dear Linda.

>49 johnsimpson: Hello John. How often do you get to be with that beautiful grandchild?

>50 FAMeulstee: Hi Anita. Considering I've accomplished a lot of projects around the house, I am quite fortunate to be able to read between buying a new washing machine (the old one was jumping around the floor so much, it looked like a disco dance.) And, the noise was quite annoying. I've finished painting the walls in a rather large bedroom, and will hire someone to paint the ceiling. There are new carpets on the dining and living room, and those walls are freshly painted - though no by me. A vaulted ceiling and loft precluded my ability to take on that project. The cost was more than I expected. But, the outcome is lovely. The outside deck is painted, by the same people who painted the living and dining room.

I've managed, with assistance, to get rid of many items from both the basement and the attic. I discovered Will was quite a hoarder. There were at least 75 cans of coffee, and enough toilet paper that it lasted over two years. The downstairs bedroom and adjoining bathroom are painted.

I gave away some furniture that no longer looked good in the newly painted rooms, and I purchased some reasonably priced items when a local Pier 1 store was going out of business.

The rose gardens are profuse and quite lovely. I spent a lot of time this evening clipping off the dead flowers to allow new ones to bloom. My neighbor wonders if I could please start a rose garden for him. There is a lovely Indian family next door. Basically, we point and use sign language and find words that are understandable. Still, I don't know how I can motion that a lot of new, healthy soil needs to be purchased before roses can be planted. He went through my perennial garden and pointed to the ones he would like to have in his yard.
They are lovely people. I am happy to help.

Now, a new book case and dresser needs to be put together. And, when I have the funds, two bathrooms are in dire need of remodeling.

All of these projects help keep the grief of losing Will at bay. Thus, the thought sneaks in periodically that I will have to find something else when all the projects are finished.

I made the mistake of going through photo albums of our vacations. Of course, the tears arrived and flowed freely.

Enough of me. How are you and Frank? Are you still walking? And, are your visiting museums?

Much Love!

>51 thornton37814: Lori, it is a gem of a book. Small in pages, and large in volume! I hope your summer is good thus far.

52 Roni, Let's arrange a phone visit when possible. I hope you are doing well, and that your projects are coming along before your move.
All good wishes dear one!

>53 Whisper1: Wow, you did a lot of work in the house, Linda!
I can understand you want to change things, now you are alone. The washer certainly needed replacement. How nice you help the family next door with their garden.

I am going through my photos, because my pets of the past feature as thread toppers this year. The oldies gave some memories, but not as intence as the last ones that went. Seeing pictures from Ari still can make me cry.

My roses just started blooming, late this year, as April and May were colder than usual.
Frank and I still walk every day, and our walking project around the Flevopolders is nearly done. We will continue walking the Pieterpad in October.

The museums just reopened yesterday, we re not going yet. First we want to be fuly vaccinated. My first vaccination is planned next Wednesday, and two weeks later Frank will get his second. My second is planned in July, so I expect our first museum visit will be somewhere in August.

Much love back!

Hi Linda - Congratulations on all your domestic decorating pursuits!

If you and your young student have not yet seen "Dancing Lemurs" online,
go to UK Chester Zoo and find the 2 minute version for a fun time.

Hi Linda! Congrats on 75 :) I also enjoyed The Sun Is Also a Star, and The Rainbabies was a childhood favorite.

Adding congratulations for 75 reads Linda.

>53 Whisper1: Your renovations sound wonderful too.

I love the dinosaur photos, Linda.

Congratulations on reaching 75!

>56 FAMeulstee: Anita, Ari was a wonderful dog. Let the tears flow!!!! I'm a believer that tears bring healing, and actually are a gift to the love Ari brought to you.

>57 m.belljackson: Thanks Marianne. I hope to see little Andres on Thursday. I appreciate your recommendation. I'll be sure to check this site with him. I hope all is well with you.

>59 curioussquared: Hi Natalie. A neighbor walked by with two Greyhounds. What lovely dogs they are!

>60 Caroline_McElwee: Hi Caroline. Because of you, I am going to purchase a few Pre Raphaelite prints as part of my remodeling project. There are so many that I like. I currently have a very large beautifully framed print of The Lady of Shalot (my favorite,) The Soul of the Rose, The Dainadies, and The Tempest. I also have a small print of Circe.

I've read more books than 75, but the house projects get in the way of posting them. Today I finished the set of dvd's on Ken Burns study of The Roosevelts, Theodore, Franklin and Eleanor. I am currently reading the two-part series of books on Eleanor Roosevelt written by Blanche Wiesen Cook

Hi, Linda. Kudos to you for your Roosevelt reading/viewing binge. I've had Mornings on Horseback in the back of my mind as a possible read for a while now, and you review has helped move it up.

We've become Nicola Yoon fans in our house thanks to The Sun is Also a Star and Everything, Everything. I see she has a new one out called Instructions for Dancing; have you heard anything about it?

Congrats on reaching 75, Linda! Glad you enjoyed The Sun Is Also a Star - that's my favorite of Nicola Yoon's.

Winston's War is a terrific book about the years where Britain stood alone against Nazi Germany

I've never read a book by Max Hastings that didn't teach me something new

Hello, Linda! So nice to get caught up here and see what you have been up to. You sound like you have been killing all the house projects. Nicely done! And your gardening. My garden is my place to zen out while I work on it and then a place to entertain and enjoy my friends and family. Love and need it! : ) Big hugs.

Unfortunately, I lost track of you, Linda.
A very belated happy new thread and congratulations on reaching 75.
All the love and good for you!

Hi Linda! I haven’t visited for a bit. Your threads are always so lively, honest, optimistic, and full of interesting books.

>38 Whisper1: and >40 fuzzi: Great story about Will and Kayla and the soft animals. Like fuzzi, I never knew my grandfathers.

>46 Whisper1: Congrats on reaching 75!

>29 Whisper1: and >58 Whisper1: – I admire you for reading Goodwin. I have No Ordinary Time, The Bully Pulpit, and another by her – Team of Rivals on my shelves, just waiting for the right time.

>63 jnwelch: I've heard good comments about the latest Yoon book via other threads.

How are you Joe? Any better? Sending prayers.

>64 bell7: Happy Sunday Mary. I hope you are enjoying the day of rest.

>65 magicians_nephew: I recently ordered Winston's War through Thriftbooks.com. They usually get the books out in a few days. I will put it at the top of the list now that you highly recommend it. And, as you know, I follow your recommendations.

>66 Berly: Hi Kim.. So very good to see a post from you. I enjoy my gardening, but I confess it is a lot of work.

>67 SirThomas: Hi Tom. I hope all is well with you.

>68 karenmarie: So good to hear from you Karen. I enjoyed the writing of Goodwin. Recently, at a previous co-worker told me that Doris Kearns Goodwin plagerized.

>69 Whisper1: We had trees cut down in the back yard and they had to pull them up and out using a winch and the path was right through my front garden. GRRRRR. Fortunately most of the plants in the way were in pots and I could move them, but I lost a few and now I have to reassemble the garden.

BOOK #77


The Air You Breathe by Frances De Pontes Peebles

I have mixed feelings regarding this book. I finished it, but can't give it a high rating.

Two girls, both on a sugar plantation in Brazil. The first, an orphan who works in the kitchen with a woman who takes care of her, the other is the only daughter of the boisterous, self-absorbed owner of the plantation.

As the plantation is in dire straights of survival. The spunky orphan refuses to allow the daughter of the owner to treat her badly. They grow to love each other through the wife and mother of the plantation owner. They land in Hollywood as they try to make a living in music. It works temporarily.

I cannot recommend it.

BOOK #78


A Connoisseur's Guide To Antique Dolls by Ronald Pearsall

A lovely book containing images and descriptions of older dolls, including cloth and wax materials. While I do not collect these dolls, it was fun to sit back with a cup of tea and go through each beautiful page.

BOOK #79

Dance in the Desert by Madeleine L'Engle with beautiful illustrations of Symeon Shimin whose art is exhibited at the Art Institute of Chicago, and the National Gallery in Washington, D.C.

Many know this author for her incredible book series of The Wrinkle of Time.

This book chronicles a family who long ago traveled across the long, scorching hot desert. Their young male child was introduced to ferocious animals, venomous snakes, bandits who robbed and killed. Unable to find a caravan to join, they were forced to travel alone.

Miraculously, the young boy, who one by one encountered all the dangerous animals, his spirit tamed them and no harm occurred.

The beauty of the art is introduced in muted colors of brown, darker almost black, and sand-like tones.

I've kept this book in my library since I had the honor of meeting Madeleine L'Engle in the late 70's. My book is signed.



As with all of the author's books, this one is indeed magical!!!

BOOK #80


Dear Mili by Wilhelm Grimm lush illustrations by Maurice Sendak

This is one of my favorite books illustrated by Sendak, and one that I re-read periodically. On this overcast, dreary Sunday afternoon, I found this book in my piles of illustrated books. It is one of my favorite books illustrated by Sendak. His work is magical! Combined with the original story by Wilhelm Grim, the story is rendered with beautiful artistry of Sendak.

As war approaches, Mili's mother grows increasingly concerned about protecting her only, precious child. Sending her into the forest to survive, there is a belief that a guardian angel will look after Milli and keep her safe.

While it seems to Mili that she is only gone three days, in fact it is 30 years.

In the forest she is welcomed by an elderly man, St. Joseph, who shelters her and upon departing to leave for home, he presents her a rose and tells her he will see her again.

When she returns, her mother is now aged.

There are many themes presented in this book that are handled so very masterfully in the hands of a skilled writer such as Sendak. War, separation, aging, death and grief are but a few of the lessons learned in reading this tale.

Like life, there are instances when there is no happy ending.

When asked if his themes were too scary and adult like for children, Sendak replied "Parents shouldn’t assume children are made out of sugar candy and will break and collapse instantly. Kids don’t. We do." (TIME, Dec 5, 1988 v30 n23 p74(1).

I have my copy of A Wrinkle in Time signed by the author. Would never part with it.

Signed books are fun but the best part is having a few moments of one on one time to talk to a cherished author and hear her voice while she is signing.

>74 Whisper1: Hi Jim. As always, I am in awe of the many things we have in common!

>73 Whisper1: A treasure!! And a Madeleine L'Engle I have not yet read.

>77 Berly: Hi again Kim. I hope your Sunday was restful.. much love

BOOK #81


Art & Max by David Wiesner

Every book I've read by this incredibly talented Caldecott-winning artist always provides smiles and a lot of joy. And, as usual, I read this book once, then again immediately.

The illustrations are fun, and so is the story line. Art is a very talented artist. He wants to share his gift with his best friend Max. Much to Max's chagrin, the rendition becomes a splotch of color that does not look like Max at all. Max is very upset.

Colorful, unique and humorous.

Highly recommended

>69 Whisper1: I just did a duckduckgo search of “Doris Kearns Goodwin plagiarism” and am truly surprised at the number of articles. Thanks for alerting me to this.

>53 Whisper1:, Hi Linda my dear, over the last week we have seen Elliott three times and we will see him again on Wednesday. At the moment he is quite fractious and if he was on a bottle we would have him overnight so that both Amy and Andy could get a good nights rest, bless them.

Hope all is well with you my dear friend.

Hi Linda - The L'Engle books looks great. It's one I haven't read. We are big Wiesner fans in our household, and my granddaughter, the artists, does love Art & Max.

>69 Whisper1: Thank you Linda, everything is ok.
It was just an unfortunate combination of fat fingers, a smartphone and inattention.
And already a star was extinguished unnoticed.

>72 Whisper1: How fun!

BOOK #82


This is Just To Say Poems of Apology and Forgiveness by Joyce Sidman with beautiful illustrations of Pamela Zagarenski

As always, the combination of Sidman's writing and Zagarenski's artistry is a joy to read!

This is a compilation of sixth grade students who express their sorrow and apologies. A lovely book!

Reading this book of apologies, I remembered that a long overdue apology should have occurred to Mrs. Rader, my third (or fourth) grade teacher. I didn't like her at all. As a introverted, quiet child, to me, she seemed very rough. She made me stay inside of the class while others where outside on the playground because she insisted I "indent" my writing. I did not know what indent meant, and she really wasn't good, or patient in explaining it to me.

Later that day, in a spelling book there was a cartoon- like image of a woman in a footed tub, and the woman was scrubbing away with lots of bubbles and a wooden scrub brush. Out loud, I said "This is Mrs. Radar!!!"

My second punishment of the day, was to sit outside the classroom on the wooden steps, watching as the music teacher entered the classroom. Mrs. Radar knew I loved the music teacher and how much it would hurt not to be able to sing and spend time with her. When Mrs. Brown saw my tears, she kindly asked why I was in the hall; I said it was because I hated Mrs. Rader!

>80 karenmarie: Karen, working in a college journalism department, I was very surprised when a co-worker told me about this author's many uses and credits of others materials.

>81 johnsimpson: John, I wish for you many days ahead when you will have the joy of Elliott's overnight company.

>82 BLBera: Beth, I discovered Madeline L'Engle when I was an adult. I rapidly read the Wrinkle in Time series.

>83 SirThomas: Tom, it is always a joy to see a post by you!

>84 thornton37814: It was joyous to see the artistry of those who tenderly made a doll from various materials!

BOOK #82


Once There Was a Tree by Natalia Romanova with incredible illustrations of Gennady Spirin

This is a simple tale, written by the author and beautifully illustrated by Gennady Spirin. Spirin beyond a doubt is my favorite illustrator. Much more than a simply illustrator (if there is such a person,) Spirin brings life to each and every image. Truly, it takes a while to carefully go through the images that he brings to life.

If I was rich, I would buy one or two or three or four......or more of his original works.

This is a circle of life tale. An old tree was hit by lightening, and it was split in half.

A woodsman saw the damaged tree, and he took his ax to chop it down, leaving it open for the beetles to lay their eggs in the stomp. the eggs became full grown beetles who flex away, leaving the tunnels open for ants to make the stump their home.

Next, a large bear sharpened her claws on the stump, leaving long, deep gashes in the wood. When a Titmouse approached, she ate a caterpillar that an ant claimed. Now, the ants belonged to the Titmouse bird. But so too did the stump belong to the frog who found a hole in with to clime into.

Later an earwig came along, and so too did a man who was walking through the woods on a stormy night.

Since it was the nature of every inhabitant to claim to stump, the author asks who really owns the stump?

And, in the end, nature belongs to all. And the cycle of life and death continues. As a new tree grows where the old tree lived.

Five stars for a beautiful story with excellent illustrations.

Linda, my daughter read *The Wrinkle in Time* series as a pre-teen and was obsessed with them. I will pass on the information about the new book. She will be thrilled.

I wasn't aware of Goodwin's history of plagerism. I'm curious to find out more.

>87 Whisper1: Jan, sadly Madeline L'Engle is no longer alive. I met her through a friend who visited the retreat center where I worked many years ago.

Hi, Linda. Congratulations on surpassing 75 books!

>79 Whisper1: another one for the grands, thanks!

>79 Whisper1: I borrowed this from the library, what a delight! I found a new copy for sale online and have ordered it for my grands.

Hi there!! : )

Hi, Linda. I'm just stopping by to say hello. I just got back from a family wedding in So. California to face the incredible heat wave here. Today the high was around 113 but it's supposed to cool down bit tomorrow.Thank goodness for AC.

Hi Linda. Hope you are doing well and are just busy reading instead of posting. It's been pretty hot and humid here but I can't complain when I hear about the horrible heat in the western USA and Canada. Unbelievable! I hope you have a/c and that it's working!

>90 tymfos: Hi Terri. I went to your home page and found so many wonderful photos of Sig! What a beautiful and adventurous cat. I hope all is well with you.

I'm making changes in the house. Will, my partner of 20 years, passed away two years ago. In order to deal with the grief, I am slowly, and intentionally changing each room. There is nothing major, just giving away furniture to needy people, having rooms painted, and now my project is to go through books and give away those I know I will not read.

All good wishes.

Linda

>91 fuzzi: Fuzzi. This is a delightful and colorful book. It fits all the reasons I love children's illustrated books!
>92 fuzzi: So glad you were able to obtain a copy of this delightful book!

>93 Berly: Hi Kim. I've been MIA. The projects in the house are consuming, but very worthwhile. I have a high school friend who lives about an hour away. She is incredibly talented regarding how to look at a space and make it work! I do not have that talent. For example, years ago when I did a lot of entertaining, I purchased a beautiful large table that had eight chairs and two large extensions. It was in my kitchen space (sans all the chairs and extensions,) but it took up a lot of room. Vicki told me to get rid of it if I wasn't needing it. She actually made a table for me from a cabinet. It is lovely and has a butcher block top, with an overhang for two stools, and there are two drawers where I keep my baking items. Beneath the drawers are three baskets of varying sizes, also used for items that I use for baking. I love it!
All these project demand a lot of time and energy, and takes me away from reading and my presence here. I miss my LT friends, and I appreciate your kind visits. Much Love!

>94 Oregonreader: Jan, I am so glad to hear from you. I heard about the sweltering temperatures your way, and I am concerned. Are you able to be cool?

>95 jessibud2: Hi Shelley. It is very hot. The flowers wilt if they are not watered in the morning and night. Since I've spent a lot of time and money cultivating them, I want to be sure they live. It seems to be hot everywhere. I think of those workers who are trying to find people buried in the rubble of the Florida condo that imploded. God Bless Them!

I've been consumed with household projects, and still in grief at the loss of Will, my partner of 20 years, who died two years ago after a three month battle after open heart surgery, and severe complications as a result of very poor lungs, a condition called Sarcoidosis.

Alas in my grief, I have left behind the specialness of LT and this group. I'm back and vow to be more diligent. I visited my local library yesterday and brought home some books that appealed to me. They include:

Illustrated Books

Lost and Found by Shaun Tan
The Yellow House Vincent Van Gogh & Paul Gauguin Side by Side by Susan Goldman Rubin
Frederick Douglass The Lion Who Wrote History by Walter Dean Myers

Non Illustrated Books

Lost and Found by Carolyn Parkhurst
Better, Not Bitter Living on Purpose i The Pursuit of Racial Justice by Yusef Salaam
Nuclear Folly A History of The Cuban Missile Crisis by Serhii Plokhy
Left Neglected by Lisa Genova

Young Adult Books

My Jasper June by Laurel Snyder
Let It Snow by John Green

Wonderful books and pictures - thank you for sharing, Linda.
All the best for you and yor way.

Hi Linda - I'm happy to see you back. Your plans for the house sound great. I've been doing some little cosmetic things as well. I just got sick of it when I was home for the last year.

>99 SirThomas: Hi Tom, thanks for stopping by!

>100 BLBera: Beth, I've missed LT, and all the things that make me happy. I visiting people and doing things I used to do, I realized how isolated I've become. Time to move on and embrace life again.

BOOK #83


Frederick Douglass The Lion Who Wrote History by Walter Dean Myers with beautiful illustrations of Floyd Cooper

I confess I know little about Frederick Douglass. Somehow in all the books I've read of slavery, the Civil War, and The Civil Rights Movement, I skipped Frederick Douglass. After reading this, I vow to learn more.

Born a slave, he was fortunate to learn to read by listening to Sophia Auld, the mistress of the house of his owner.
when the husband, and owner of Douglass saw that he was learning to read, he quickly stopped this and noted that "Teaching a slave to read, will make him unfit to be a slave!" Listening to the Auld children read and speak, he was determined that the only way out of slavery was to escape and to continue to learn.

Hired out by his master, he worked in shipyards. Most of his earnings went directly to his master. Meeting free men on this job, Using papers as a free man, he boarded the ship and fled into the world of freedom. Ending in New Bedford, Mass, which was a ship yard . He married and continued to fight for freedom for all.

Breaking into the confidence to speak regarding slavery and all the horrible result of this cruel system, he met John Brown, the famous abolitionist. In an attempt to obtain the arsenal of weapons at Harper's Ferry, John Brown tried to talk Frederick into helping with his plan. Frederick Douglas thought the plan was dangerous and would not result into anything but failure.

As the Civil War progressed, many black men joined and fought. Unfortunately, they fought for a country that did not provide the rights of the black man. In 1865, the 13th amendment to the U.S Constitution was in place the end slavery in the United States.

Throughout his life, Douglas continued to speak and advocate for the rights of black people to be treated equally.

BOOK #84



Harvesting Hope The Story of Cesar Chavez by Kathleen Krull with beautiful illustrations of Yuri Morales

Cesar Chavez had an early childhood filled with family, enough to eat because there was plenty of food to harvest. However, in 1937, the drought baked the land, hard as bricks it was impossible to coax any thing growing in this soil hard as rocks.

At ten, his family packed up the truck and traveled to find a better life. Seeing his mother cry because of all the changes, he vowed to help his family. No longer owning the land, they became migrant workers traveling from place to place in the hope of finding work.

When work was found, the wages were horrible, the treatment of the workers was on of being beaten down every day. The work was mind numbing, and back breaking.

Cesar liked to learn, but even that opportunity was fraught with pain. Once, when he slipped and spoke Spanish instead of English is the classroom, the tmean spirited teacher made him wear a sign that said "I AM A CLOWN; I SPEAK SPANISH

Tired of the ugly treatment, the numbing work which provided very little money, as he grew older, he began to speak for better treatment and pay.

Following in the way of Ghandi, he led a non-violent pilgrimage throughout California. His march began with 78 people and grew as together they marched at least 15 miles a day.

Advocating for better working conditions, it was the strike against harvesting the crops of grapes. Soon thousands of crops perished because of the workers strike.

He founded The National Farm Workers Association. All toil, it took five years of fasting, jail, marching and picketing until the grape growers bowed to the demands.

Always advocating for the poor migrant workers, he then picketed for the lettace workers.

His original march covered 300 miles of walking in the hot sun, and throughout the journey, the number of people supporting his work of representing the underdog grew to thousands. Not all were able to make the long journey. But, in the end, his demands were fulfilled. As thousands of pounds of grapes rotted on the ground and on the trees, it was clear that the owners of the land, needed the workers, and thus their demands for food, a place to stay, and a decent wage were met.

In 1963, his final fast of thirty six days, he lost strength and died.

This is an inspiring story of one man who encouraged many to seek justice in a non-violent way.

BOOK #85


Vincent Van Gogh & Paul Gauguin Side By Side The Yellow House by Susan Goldman Rubin with beautiful illustrations by Jos. A. Smith

This is the story of a block of history in the lives of these two incredible impressionist painters. Vincent Van Gogh was already experiencing signs of what came to be called "fits" when he invited his friend and fellow artist to join him in the yellow house in the south of France.

Two different temperaments, and two varied style of artistry. One saw the world in colors, the other (Gauguin) tried to paint more realistically. For two months in the fall of 1888 they inspired each other. Living together was problematic. Van Gogh was a messy painter, as he splashed gobs of paint on the campus, whereas Gauguin attempted to be very orderly and organized in his works.

All too soon the friends clashed. When Gauguin told Vincent he was leaving, a violent argument resulted in Vincent cutting off his ear. Vincent was taken to the hospital, Paul was indeed very frightened and immediately left Arles.

This led to the down fall of Vincent's emotions which could no longer be held in check.
These two incredible artists never saw each other again. Vincent gave some of his sunflower paintings to Gauguin, and Gauguin in turn gifted Vincent his drawing of Madame Ginoux.

The image of two chairs are one chair painted by Van Gogh, and the same chair painted differently by Gauguin show the differences in their perceptions.

I'm sorry you are having so many challenges lately.

Your last two reviews are very intriguing - and thanks as always for posting the wonderful illustrations.

>105 streamsong: Thank you Janet. I appreciate your emotional support. I am drawn to the beauty of illustrated books as a means of telling stories of events and the characters who made a major impact in the world.

It's refreshing to see more serious and inclusive topics in children's books!

>107 streamsong: Janet, interestingly, yesterday I mentioned an illustrated book I am reading, Portraits of African American Heroes, to a friend. She asked about the book and I excitedly told her about the beautiful writing and the incredible sepia colored images.

Later, she send a text "Are you aware that this is a children's book?

It provided a wonderful opportunity for me to tell her of the beauty of "children's" illustrated books which tell history and provide incredible opportunities to learn. In addition I got on a soap box about Caldecott winners, and the Newbery Award-winning books which depict stories of history, hardship, love and a host of other lessons.

A sensitive soul, she sent a text back apologizing. I don't think my tone was pejorative, but her comment was just a tad incredulous. I like her, and no harm done. It provided me an opportunity to explain why I like this genre.

Today I will read another wonderfully illustrated book by Pamela Zagarenski. I think I've read all but this one I will read today.

I found that she sells her cards online. They are pricey, but worth the cost.

BOOK #86


Henry's Freedom Box by Ellen Levine with beautiful illustrations of Kadir Nelson

Based upon the true story of Henry "Box" Brown a slave since birth, grew up in the plantation culture where beatings were common, and a casual poke with a stick when the master walked by led to an inflamed, infected wound.

Later in life, when he watched as his entire family were sold by their master, he never recovered from the pain of the splitting them apart, never to be seen again, he decided enough was enough.

So very distraught over the loss of his family who were treated as goods to be sold, one morning he heard a bird chirping and singing, he too wanted to be free to sing and be happy.

He took a risk, trusting Dr. Smith, a white man whom he knew detested slavery, Henry asked for help to build a crated box, large enough for him to sit packed inside. If he coughed he would be found. If the box was mishandled, it would break -- he took the risk.

The outside of the crate written by Dr. Smith, was the following:

To: William H. Johnson
Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA

Dr. Smith noted in large letters: THIS SIDE UP; HANDLE WITH CARE.

Woven in the text is the underground railroad and a white man who helped him free the chains of slavery. Delivered on March 30, 1849, he henceforth celebrated his birthday as March 30.

This is yet another example of a children's illustrated book written with historical context and the knowledge of the underground railroad!

Just dropping by. You continue to find lovely children's (and other) books and I like taking a peek at them.

>110 Whisper1: - Thank you for this, Linda. I adore the work of Kadir Nelson and have just now, after reading your review, placed a request for this one from my library.

>102 Whisper1: Frederick Douglas 4th of July speech is a masterful powerhouse!

>111 RBeffa: Thanks for stopping by Ron!

>112 jessibud2: Shelley, I also like the illustrations of Kadir Nelson. He illustrated quite a few children's books.

>113 m.belljackson: Tomorrow I will do a google search for Frederik Douglas' 4th of July speech. Thanks for pointing me in this direction.

Speaking of fireworks, my little six year old friend, Andres, knocked on the door and asked me to come over and watch his fireworks. He enjoyed the sparklers. As the sound of loud fireworks surrounded the neighborhood, I quickly came home to Lilly. I found her shaking in a dark corner of the downstairs bedroom.

I am holding her, but she still shakes.

Hi Linda - stopping by to say hello and check out the illustrated books you have been reading. I like Pamela Zagarenski’s artwork! I have not been on LT much lately so trying to catch up with the threads this week!

Sounds like you're reading some good books, Linda! John Brown and Frederick Douglass met in a town not far from me, and one of the times I went down to DC I made a point of visiting Douglass's house in the historic Anacostia neighborhood. One of these days I want to read Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass but I haven't gotten to it yet.

Sorry Lilly had such a hard time with fireworks.

What a lot of great picture books, Linda. I love that you add the illustrations. I suspect I will continue to read them as well, even as Scout graduates to chapter books. And she still does like to read her favorites.

>114 Whisper1: Sorry to hear that Lilly has a hard time with fireworks, Linda. Skelly hates them too. We had to blast loud music for him for most of the night, and then he retreated to hide in the walk-in closet. Luckily my other two dogs don't seem to care about them.

>118 curioussquared: my Cleo freaks out during thunderstorms and fireworks. I had given her double the usual anxiety meds and yet the fireworks racket was so loud that she puddled in the bedroom. Poor pup.

I only give her 1/4 of the allowed dosage, so I guess I can up it more next time.

>119 fuzzi: We've tried prescription anxiety meds and CBD treats before and neither has seemed to help much, unfortunately. Having a firework-reactive dog has really made me hate the things, especially when people are setting them off late into the night.

>120 curioussquared: or setting them off several nights in a row? It's frustrating.

I also hate doping her night after night.

>115 jayde1599: Hi Jess. Thanks for stopping by. Like you, I haven't been on LT as much as I'd like. Keeping the outside gardens in order, as well as the inside projects leaves little time to do what I like.

>116 bell7:, Hi Mary. I find all the history of Mass. so fascinating. When my son in law was obtaining his master's degree in mechanical engineering at Tufts, my daughter and he lived in Waltham, a place very near Concord. My former husband and I shared a love of history, and Mass. is loaded with both history and American literature! We contemplated moving to Mass., but decided to stay in PA. It is fascinating that you live near where John Brown and Frederick Douglass met!

>117 BLBera: Beth, recently, I mentioned to a friend that I was reading a beautifully illustrated book titled Portraits of African American Heroes, she did a google search and responded with "Do you know that is a children's book?" I responded with the fact that many "children's books" are also wonderful for adults. She apologized, and I told her there was no need to do so. I noted some of the beautiful books that teach both children and adults history, literature and a host of wonderful subjects. I first read young adult books as a result of Anita (Famultsee) who read many beautiful YA books. When Barnes and Noble designated a large area devoted to YA books, I knew this genre was becoming popular.
How old is Scout? And, of course I am curious if you named her as a result of the beautiful character in To Kill a Mockingbird. Which, has remained my all- time favorite book since I read it in high school.

>118 curioussquared: Natalie. It amazes me that so many people use dangerous fireworks in neighborhoods with many houses. Awhile ago, community fireworks were set off in the high school football stadium. The breeze carried one to the roof of a house, and the house burnt down. That was the end of fireworks in a compact area. Regarding Lilly, I purchased a sweater that wrapped around her, for the purpose of calming. It didn't work. Now, I know not to go away on July 4th, but sadly, fireworks go off days beforehand. I live near the border of New Jersey and there is a large warehouse that sells them.

>119 fuzzi: Thanks for noting there are medications to soothe a frantic dog who is afraid out of his/her wits. I'll check with my vet.

>120 curioussquared: Natalie, early at night, late at night, the day before, the day of, the day after...it never ends!

>121 fuzzi: so true! so true!!

BOOK #87



Me, Stories of My Life by Katharine Hepburn

While at times, the writing is slow and pedantic, overall, I liked this book. It contains beautiful photos, and tales of filming of her many movies.

I particularly liked learning about her childhood and her parents who were very intelligent and far in advance of the time in which they lived. She noted that as a child, she remembered meetings held by her mother regarding birth control and a woman's right to control her own body.

Her father was a doctor, who had female patients who died as a result of husband's indiscretions and gave their wives sexually transmitted diseases. He was a strong proponent of the need for medications that controlled illness and death.

Way ahead of their time, she felt blessed to have such caring parents.

Stunningly beautiful, with a kind, caring personality, she was indeed a lovely lady.

>123 Whisper1: That was how my mother's mother died, which gave her a rather cautionary bent.

BOOK #88


Portraits of African-American Heroes by Tonya Bolden with stunning paintings by Ansel Pitcairn

This is a beautiful book dedicated to the lives of heroes who changed American history! Some of the people noted, I confess to not knowing about, such as the artist Jacob Lawrence, and Matthew Henson, the son of a sharecropper who accompanied Robert Edwin Perry to the North Pole!

Of course Martin Luther King, Jr. is highlighted as well as Shirley Chisolm, the first black woman who sought to be a major party's presidential candidate. Though she was not successful in this endeavor, she encouraged other people of color to get further involved in politic so they could have a say in legislation that impacted their lives.

I confess to not knowing about Gwendolyn Brooks, a widely read poet who was a member of the New Negro movement of the 1920's of which the Harlem African centered artistic and political activity , of which the Harlem Renaissance was a part.

Highlighted in the book are many well-known African American members such as Thurgood Marshall, Satchel Paige, Joe Lewis, Paul Robeson, Bessie Coleman, Malcolm X, Dizzy Gillespie, and a host of others.

I highly recommend this book! The writing and the incredible illustrations make this a five- star read.

BOOK #89


A Boy Named FDR by Kathleen Krull with illustrations by Steve Johnson & Lou Fanchely r

This is an illustrated book about Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States, and the only president to hold three terms.

This book is primarily for young adults who want to learn about the life of a young man born into wealth, and who as an adult, was responsible for many accomplishments in advocating for the poor. Sadly in his adulthood he was struck down by polio. This crippling disease did not stop him from continuing his presidency and his tenacious spirit.

BOOK #90


Eric by Shaun Tan

It takes patience to understand some of the stories written by this author. However, I will add that reading his books are a joy! The illustrations are incredible! And, his stories challenge the imagination.

In this short story, we learn of Eric, a foreign exchange student, who is not a typical student, both in looks and actions.

The family who take him in as an exchange student want very much to understand this different character. He does not sleep in the beautiful bedroom they decorated for him, instead, he sleeps in the pantry cabinet. His questions were difficult to understand, much the same for the personality of Eric. He delights in small things, and he is truly a delightful, original character that the reader grows to appreciate and enjoy!

When he leaves, they are surprised and saddened. Expecting his return, they are disappointed. When they open the pantry, they are filled with joy at what he left behind.

I smiled throughout the entire book, and much as those who mourned Eric departure, I too wanted more of this delightfully surprising character.



And here is what Eric left behind in the pantry...A lovely gift to behold forever:

Hi, Linda. I remember reading the Hepburn memoir back in the early 90s, just after it came out. I liked it a lot too. I had not heard of that Tan title, so thanks for that.

>125 Whisper1: You snared me with this one Linda.

Hi Linda - Yes, my daughter's favorite book was To Kill a Mockingbird, so when she knew she was having a girl, she was determined to name her Scout. Scout will be eight years old next month? I can't believe it.

Portraits of African American Heroes looks wonderful.

Remember reading the Katherine Hepburn book years ago.

She is unsparing in documenting her own life long love affair with Spencer Tracy. So strange for a girl raised in that way by those parents to wind up in such a strained and abusive relationship

>123 Whisper1: they lived in the same town as I did when I was growing up. I never saw Miss Katie, but I knew where her familiy's house was.

Small world.

>128 msf59: Hi Mark. Thanks for visiting. I haven't been on the threads for awile. I'm finding that having a house on my own, and gardens in front by the mailbox, in front of the house by the side of the door, and then two rose gardens in back, is a lot to handle.
I'm doing well, but it requires a lot of energy. My grand daughter is here with me two weeks of the month. She mows the lawn and helps me with grocery shopping and many other tasks. She is my shining star!

>129 Caroline_McElwee: Hi Caroline. It is a very captivating book. I confess there were people included that I never heard of.

>130 BLBera: Beth, I think there are many of us who love To Kill a Mockingbird. I read her other book, and it just could not compare.

>131 magicians_nephew: Jim, I found it amazing that she gave up her career when they moved together.

>132 fuzzi: Fuzzi, that's fascinating. She mentions her parent's house a lot in the book. She had a charmed childhood.

BOOK #91


The Great Migration An American Story illustrations are the art work of John Lawrence with a very poignant telling of the story by Walter Dean Myers

The illustrations for this book are actual paintings titled The Migration of the Negro, total 60 paintings. One half of them are in The New York Museum of Modern Art, the other half are in The Phillips Collection in Washington D.C.

The beautifully stunning images of the Great Migration who occurred the mass migration of blacks seeking to find better jobs, and better opportunities that the south could provide. These free Americans deserved much more than a culture of white domination, wherein they still had to walk on the opposite side of the street, still had signs of drinking fountains were also noted Whites...Blacks..

Lawrence's paintings also show the hardship endured in moving from the north to the south. These are strong images are indeed powerful.

BOOK #92

She Persisted by Chelsea Clinton illustrated by Alexandra Boiger



This tells the story of 13 women who faced adversity . They are motivated by the fact that in 2017, Senator Elizabeth Warren's refused to be silenced in the Senate.

The women's stories are written by Chelsea Clinton, and illustrated by Alexandra Boiger. They are as follows;

Harriet Tubman, the leader of the underground railroad, who continued throughout her life to help many to move to the north and feel poverty of the south.

Clara Lemlich, fled from the Ukraine and search for a better life. She worked in the New York garment industry. She noted the terrible working conditions, and she organized picket lines and helped others to a better, pay, safer working conditions. Her efforts benefited men and women.

Helen Keller, born blind and deaf, learned to read, write and speak, and she attended and graduated
college. Her efforts to overcome her disability became a positive influence for men and woman.

Nellie Bly was a person who became a reporter. Male reporters pushed her down. Her career was dedicated to others who were told they could not fulfill their dreams to stand up to injustice.

Virginia Apgar was determined to become a doctor. She became an anesthesiologist and was responsible for creating the Apgar score applied to newborn babies.

Maria Tallchief was the first Native American to obtain the first great American prima ballerina.

Ruby Bridges was a black American. She was responsible for breaking the barriers of black people who were told they could not attend white schools. She faced incredible nastiness of those who did not want her there.

Margaret Chase Smith was a U.S. representative and a U.S. senator she continued to fight for woman's rights.

Sally Ride was the first American woman in space.

Florence Griffith Joyner persisted in her drive to train and become fast. She obtained her wish, and was successful in obtaining world records in the 1988 Summer Olympics.

Oprah Winfrey became the well-known woman on TV, her show won many awards. And, her show is the highest talk show.

Claudette Colvin was only fifteen when she denied her right to sit on a bus labeled for whites. She help to inspire Rosa Parks who became the second person to do what she did.

Sonia Sotomayer, learned how to speak English as well as her native language. She became a Supreme Court justice.

Currently Reading

Dinner at the Homesick Restaurant my favorite Anne Tyler book. This is re-read. I liked it so much that I continued to read most of Tyler's booksl

Hi Linda!

There is so much to catch up on over here.

Grief and moving on can go hand in hand, I see. You are so strong and resilient and I admire you.

>123 Whisper1: I read and loved this book. I’ve also read The Making of the African Queen by Hepburn and Kate Remembered by A. Scott Berg. A fascinating woman, although I also remember Dorothy Parker’s quip about her: During an intermission of The Lake, Dorothy Parker remarked to others in her party: “Well, let’s go back and see Katharine Hepburn run the gamut of human emotion from A to B.”

>125 Whisper1: I really like the look of that one, Linda. Isn't it a shame that the world could not have replicated more people of the ilk of MLK?

Lovely book illustrations along with your reviews.

I just finished The Family Upstairs. When I added the book, I saw that you had it, too, so thought the rec must have come from you. But no, I just checked and it's still listed on your TBR books. I'll be interested to see what you think when you read it.

>137 karenmarie: Hi, and thanks for visiting. Kate Remembered is on the TBR list. I've been good at curtailing my book purchases. Tough, I do visit Thriftbooks occasionally. When all the house remodeling i finished, I plan to go through all my books, which are throughout the house, and place them in alpha order. That's the way I will be able to find what I need. I hope all is well with you dear one!

>138 PaulCranswick: Hello Paul!!!! So good to see you here. I had this book for awhile, I found it and decided to read it. I'm glad I did. I have approximately 3,000 books I need to go through. I know there are a lot of gems in these piles, also many I could give away. Thinking of you and sending all good wishes.

>139 streamsong: Hi Janet. Your recommendation prompts me to find, and read this book. I own it.
Thanks for the recommendation. The summer heat has abated for a bit. There actually was a breeze last night.

>134 Whisper1: Every now and then the two museums ship their half of the collection up (or down) and they are put on exhibit as the whole collection of pantings as it's supposed to be.

We saw these at MOMA a few years ago when we had never really heard of Lawrence. Amazing. Happy they have collection them into a book

I love your book illustrations, Linda.
They are the reason I will never switch completely to ebooks.
All the best wishes for you.

>140 Whisper1: Hmmm. I've not quite decided about The Family Upstairs. It's definitely didn't feel like horror to me, although there is a mystery. I'm behind on my reviews as always so it will be a bit before I get it reviewed. I'll be interested to see what you think!

I'm glad the heat has abated a bit. Still hotter than average (mid 90's) here, very dry, and unhealthy air due to forest fire smoke. :(

I should be doing lots of reading, but it makes me feel very lethargic and I'm not achieving much.

Today brought a lot of rain. I am not in the mood to read. That's highly unusual for me. I had an Xray that showed a broken rod and a compound fracture of the spine. Tomorrow I will have an MRI, then an appointment mid August with the neurosurgeon. Please pray that I will not be slated for spine surgery number ten. I'm in a low mood these days with a lot of pain.
I've started a few books, but cannot finish them. I'll try again tonight to finish a book regarding Churchill. What an incredible man! To think that the the United States was so lax in helping England and Churchill fought Hitler alone for too long a period of time. Shame..Shame Shame on
Roosevelt!

>144 Whisper1: Oh that's awful. I hope they can see you better without surgery and do something significant for the pain.

I'm afraid the the US was, at the upper levels, substantially on the fascist side and some might well have been taking lessons.

>144 Whisper1: This is bad news, I hope and pray you get better soon without needing surgery.
Despite everything have a wonderful weekend, Linda.

>144 Whisper1: So sorry you are in a lot of pain again, Linda.
Sending comforting thoughts, and hoping with you no surgery will be needed again.
(((hugs)))

Oh, Linda! This is so troubling. I wish you only good news and hopefully, less pain. {{Linda}}

>144 Whisper1: Sorry to hear of your health problems Linda. Totally understandable to have lost your reading chops. Hopefully they can find a way to help without surgery.

Churchill was a complex character. Certainly WWII was his golden moment, but I think most of us would have disapproved of many of his attitudes as a younger man.

I've only read the first of his autobiographies (years ago), but he could write.

Linda - So sorry to hear that this frightening pain has returned and hope that stronger medication can again soon bring relief.
I know that you do not want to face surgery without Will by your side.

Linda, I'm sorry to hear about your continuing health problems. Being in constant pain can certainly wear you down so it's not surprising that you are going slower. You are in my thoughts.

Holding you in my thoughts and prayers dear Linda.

Thank you so very much. I am in tears as I write. Surgery nine was too soon after Will passed. In grief, I've thrown away and made anew. Each room is different, furniture gone, and newly replaced. Rooms are painted soft; carpet to match.
And, my wonderful, incredible neighbors have held tight. But this damn spine simply will not allow me to bring newness to life.

Sheltie Lilly and I have aged and loved each other. She pants; I worry. I sing Joni Mitchell, and she looks with understanding, and worriment when tears flow at the sheer beauty of Joni's artistry. She remains my all time favorite poet, singer, painter, understander (is that a word?) throughout the years.

And, I had a dog since my young life. Each one beautiful and special. Lilly is by far the best, incredible beyond words. Years ago, my first degree was social work. I remember learning to watch for those who harm animals. There is something missing in them, something very wrong. Both husbands who could not cry, cried when the dog we shared had to be transitioned. I remember thinking I was right...there was something very good about these men!

In the MRI over an hour, the technician who made sure there were cushions for the wounded spine, helped me rise. I looked in her eyes and she asked how I do this...She gently asked what I needed, and I said time. I waited to be able to sit erect. I held her hand and gently, she pushed twice. I left thinking LIFE IS GOOD. AND, THERE ARE WONDERFUL PEOPLE WHO CARE.

Certainly, this group of wonderful people, some I've known since 2008, and others new and equally sincere, and intelligent and kind!

Today's weather report -- 88F Mostly Sunny! I smile at the metaphor.

>144 Whisper1: I am so sorry to hear about more spinal problems!! You have put up with more than your fair share already!!! Here I am whining about my dislocated hip (which is now back in place per the x-ray yesterday) and you have a broken rod AND a compound fracture!! You win again, but let's just stop competing. Deal? Seriously though, my thoughts are with you. I am so glad you have your wonderful neighbors and Lily, and that the technician was so understanding and helpful. Hang in there dear Linda!! You are just so amazing and wonderful. Big hugs.

>154 Berly: Dear One. I hope you realize how very special you are!

>153 Whisper1: To deal with grief and such terrible physical pain is more than many people could do. I applaud your inner strength. You are very special.

>153 Whisper1: I hope the results of the MRI bring some curative answers Linda, and that that technician is a teacher as well as a carer. She really did find her vocation.

Glad you have your dear Lily.

>156 Oregonreader: Thanks Jan!
>157 Caroline_McElwee: Caroline, I will receive the MRI disk Tuesday or Wednesday of this week. Lilly is indeed special. I very much like the Shetland Sheepdog bred. They tend to be highly intelligent, and loyal.

Linda: I am so sorry to hear about your continued spine problems. I hope that there is a solution that will leave you pain free.

Hi Linda - I'm so sorry about your recent results and the possible surgery. Many gentle hugs.

I am behind on reviews, but I just reviewed Mary’s Monster: Love, Madness, and How Mary Shelley Created Frankenstein on my thread. I loved it as much as you did! Thanks for the rec!

Linda - I am sorry to hear that your spine is still causing pain.
I am happy that Lilly is such a great companion! Pets are special creatures for sure

>159 BLBera: Hi Beth, Thanks for stopping by, and for your kind words -- as always

>160 streamsong: Hi Janet. Thanks for your affirmation! I vey much liked Mary’s Monster: Love, Madness, and How Mary Shelley Created Frankenstein , I am glad you did as well.

>161 jayde1599: Hi Jess. I appreciate your visit, as always. Lilly is nine. She and I have been through a lot, including some health issues she had/has.

It was a pretty day. For once, it was not hot. I spent a bit of time in the front garden. I've been neglecting the flowers, and it was good to prune, and replant as well as snip some flowers from a large purple zinnia plant, they will make lovely plants next year. I dry the seeds and save them. Zinnias, especially large ones are one of my favorite plants.

BOOK $93



Reckless Daughter A Portrait of Joni Mitchell by David Yaffe

This is a re-read, originally read in 2016. My review is the same as the toughts remain a true.

You really must be a Joni Mitchell fan if you start, and finish, this book. Well written, but dull in places because of the sheer volume of information.

A Poet, able to play and sing her own songs, Joni has long been my favorite singer of the folk era. She transcended this era by dabbling in jazz and cutting a cd with Mingus. Some fans liked her earthy poems rather that her jazz compilations.

Overall, she is definitely a supremely talented woman to be very much admired.

BOOK #94


Beautiful Things by Hunter Biden

The son of now President Joe Biden, Hunter and his brother Beau were one year and one day apart. They survived a tragic car accident. They survived, but their baby sister and mother did not. They were going to buy a Christmas tree. Hunter was two years old at the time of the accident. He and his older brother spent long days and nights holding each others hands in the hospital while recovering.

The bond with his brother was exceedingly strong. He was at Beau's side with his father holding his brother's hand as he slipped out of this world because of brain cancer. His brother was 46, leaving behind a wife and two beautiful children.

A strong friend of alcohol since a young child, he increasingly solidified this relationship as he got older. His brother helped him by attending AAA meetings with him.

When Beau died, each family member, while strong in their love for each other, struggled to find meaning. Clinging to the word Beautiful to describe Beau's character and bond with many.

Hunter rekindled his love of alcohol, and when he spun out of control, his wife divorced him. He temporarily lost the relationship with his three daughters. Now, he added another addiction, this time crack cocaine became his obsession.

This is the unflinching story of his sharp ugly descent into a helpless embracing of a life so different from his family that he hid from embarrassment, and an inability to kick the love of the feel of the pipe, and the sharp feeling of euphoria could temporarily put his pain of defeat and pain of the loss of everything good in his life.

The writing is vivid and his description is not pretty as he slips further and further into one hit and then another and another. He spares nothing in describing he bowels of hell with crack. This was at times, a very difficult book to read.

Highly recommended.

>163 Whisper1:, >164 Whisper1: - Hi Linda. I own the Joni book but haven't read it yet. And I just finished the Hunter Biden book. He has had a difficult life, hasn't he? I also found it tough to read, at times. I am happy for him that he found someone new in his life and I hope that it lasts. He deserves some peace and the chance to put distance between his past and his future..

>73 Whisper1: I found a copy of Dance in the Desert at one of my libraries! I can't wait to read it. Thanks for the recommendation!

Karen O.