Thread Number Three for Whisper1 (Linda) 2024

Esto es una continuación del tema Thread Number Two for Whisper1 (Linda) 2024.

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Thread Number Three for Whisper1 (Linda) 2024

1Whisper1
Editado: Mar 4, 9:16 pm



The following is part of Walt Whitman's beautiful poem. My long-term partner, Will, passed away five years ago. He died in spring, and shorttly afterward, in the gloaming time, I walked to my garden. I saw the beautiful blooms on my perrenial bushes.

On that particular early evening, when I missed him very much, surprisingly, a butterfly gently lit on the flower of a bush. A lone branch softly held the weight of the beautifully colored, gloriously marked gift of nature. I spoke to Will through the butterfly, and incredibly, it remained for more than 30 minutes. Early evening is not the usual time for butterflies, yet there it was.

I said I missed Will, and I also talked of things unspoken before he died. Now, too late for resolution, I am left with the sure knowledge that while someone is alive, that is the time to express the words for those feelings and thoughts that were not expressed, and remain unresolved, now long gone.

When Lilacs Last in the Dooryard Bloom’d
BY WALT WHITMAN


When lilacs last in the dooryard bloom’d,
And the great star early droop’d in the western sky in the night,
I mourn’d, and yet shall mourn with ever-returning spring.

Ever-returning spring, trinity sure to me you bring,
Lilac blooming perennial and drooping star in the west,
And thought of him I love.

2PaulCranswick
Mar 5, 12:05 am

>1 Whisper1: What a lovely, thoughtful and moving post, dear Linda.

Happy new thread, my friend.

3vancouverdeb
Mar 5, 12:50 am

Beautiful image, and a moving post, Linda.

Happy New Thread.

4SirThomas
Mar 5, 3:13 am

Thank you for this wonderful words, Linda.

Happy New Thread.

5figsfromthistle
Mar 5, 5:18 am

Happy new thread

((hugs))

6FAMeulstee
Mar 5, 8:38 am

Happy new thread, Linda!

Hard to grasp it is five years now, you put it in words in a wonderful way.
(((hugs)))

7msf59
Mar 5, 8:56 am

Happy New Thread, Linda. I love the topper and accompanying poem. Perfect.

8laytonwoman3rd
Mar 5, 10:03 am

>1 Whisper1: (((Hugs))) "things unspoken" I'll bet he knew.

9foggidawn
Mar 5, 12:06 pm

Happy new thread!

10mdoris
Mar 5, 12:22 pm

>1 Whisper1: Beautiful painting Linda. Hope today is a much better day for you!

11jessibud2
Mar 5, 6:58 pm

Happy new thread, Linda. Beautiful first post.

I hope you are beginning to feel better. You can't seem to catch a break!
{{hugs}}

12fuzzi
Mar 5, 8:27 pm

>1 Whisper1: I'm not a poetry fan, but that was special. Thank you.

13drneutron
Mar 5, 9:03 pm

Happy new thread, Linda!

14atozgrl
Mar 5, 9:43 pm

Happy new thread, Linda! I hope you are feeling better. You've had a rough time lately and deserve better.

>2 PaulCranswick: What Paul said. Your words and the poem both.

15Whisper1
Mar 5, 10:06 pm

>2 PaulCranswick:>3>4>5> Thanks for your special words. They mean a lot to me!

16Whisper1
Mar 5, 10:16 pm

>6 FAMeulstee: Anita, Yes, five years seemed to go by quickly. Kayla turned 21 on the 17th of February. As she blew out her candle, she thought of Will. She told those of us there that she missed Will and that NOW is the time she wish he was alive to listen to her sort out some difficult things she is experiencing. He was surely always there for her as a little girl, and I know he would be with her now.

>7 msf59: Thanks Mark. I know you seem to find just the right poem to post, therefore, I deeply appreciate your affirmation.

>8 laytonwoman3rd: Linda, Will was a very lovely person, but could be difficult at times. Often, in order to avoid a confrontation, I left comments pass. But now, I realize that too many of the thoughts behind what he said hurt. I do wish I would have addressed some of them. I'm a strong person, but too often, his actions or words hurt, and I left them pass. These last five years there are many occasions when I wish I would have told him how I felt. That poor butterfuly sure listened to a lot.

>9 foggidawn: Thanks Foggi. I'm always curious how the names of our thread came about. Whisper1 is in honor of my bischon do who was 13 when she died. She was the dog I mark all others by. She was incredibly special. Can you tell me why you named your marker "Foggidawn?"

>10 mdoris: Thanks Mary! I'm feeling stronger. Today was a wonderful day when granddaugther Kayla, was home from work recovering from the flu, we had a lot of wonderful conversations. She is indeed a loving, soulful person and I am very proud of her.

17alcottacre
Mar 5, 10:19 pm

Happy new thread, lovey! I am happy you had a great day with Kayla!

18Whisper1
Mar 5, 10:22 pm

>11 jessibud2: Shelley, Thanks for stopping by and your affirmation of my first post. I am beginning to feel better. For the most part, considering I have a degenerative spinal condition, I am strong. Though, at times, it does feel that enough is enough! But, thankfully, I see those times as opportunity to read.

My friend Lorriane, whose husband died last July, is not a reader. She is always telling me she is bored, and tired of living alone. When I hear her, I am always thankful that I have books for company. Throughout my life, I've relied on books to get me through!

>12 fuzzi: fuzzi..Thanks for your lovely comment.

>13 drneutron: Hi Jim. Thanks for stopping by, and again, thanks for all you do for this group!

>14 atozgrl: Iren, I am feeling better, still no out of the woods, but a lot better compared to this time a few weeks ago. And, thanks for your affirmation of the words and the poem. I struggle with poetry and I am not always drawn to it. I wish I was like Mark, and others here in our group who find the incredible poems to post.

19Whisper1
Editado: Mar 8, 1:29 am

BOOK #2 MONTH OF MARCH 2024


Spare By Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex

I read this book because it is a best selling controversial telling of memories. I took it as one person reflecting on his thoughts of his life at a specific time. Just as his early days of roaming Balmoral Castle (which I tremendously enjoyed learned about,) his interations with his father, mother and bother, and his difficult time of acceptiong the death of his mother is a telling of that time, why can't the rest of his memories be just that -- his memories -- his throughts!!

I know this is a book laden with opinions. I simply enjoyed the descripton of the castles, the strick hierachtical british system, and his love of his granny and mother. In the beginning of the book his father is portrayed as a cold man, but someone who really tries to break down barriers. Give the father a break for trying, which is what I think Harry is trying to do.

I love that his father calls him "Darling Boy!." Harry's recollections of treatment after his mother died and Camilla came into the picture is of course, his view. It should remain just that ... his view.

Frankly, I didn't understand why this singular book caused such a racus. Harry explained how he felt, and backed it up with examples. I'm not sure he did this to harm which is what he is accused of.

San, British aristocracy, I am sure that if I wrote a book about each of my sisters, my father, my mother and granny, they would not accept my feelings and thoughts. But that is exactly what they would be, ie my remembrances.

I am saying that I don't understand what all the hupla is about. Let the Darling Boy have his memories. Let him tell the reader what he thought. Why add all the drama to his opinions. IF he is hurt then let him express this opinion. I just don't understand this ostrazation and drama.

20atozgrl
Mar 5, 11:23 pm

>18 Whisper1: I'm not much of a poetry person either, Linda, so I relate very well to what you are saying. Nevertheless, that was a beautiful poem in your topper and so perfectly fit the sentiments you expressed.

21Whisper1
Editado: Mar 8, 3:51 am

Forwarded From Thread Number Two
This is out of order, to see Number two, see previous post

BOOK #1 READ IN MARCH 2024



Night Guard by Synne Lea with illustrations of Stian Hole

This is a lovely gem of a book containg pages of poems with incredibly beautiful illustrations. I've had this book for awhile, and finally picked it up by chance to read, and I'm so glad I sat down in a comfortable chair and read the poems, some of which spoke to me, but, all of them are good!

Highly Recommended.
--------------------------
When Mom cries, she cries only
because she's happy, Dad says.
it's when she smiles

it's impossible
to know what she's thinking.

---------------------

There are trees
that hardly think at all
They just stand there swaying
exactly as much
as the wind makes them.

And then there are trees
that think all the time.
on some days
it's just a question
of knowing the song.

--------------------

First my friend
laughs, and afterward
I do.

Then the laughter is
precisely long enough.
I can wind it
three times around my neck,
and get it to warm me
half the winter.

22quondame
Mar 5, 11:51 pm

Happy new thread Linda!

>1 Whisper1: What a lovely Picture, and such evocative words.

23foggidawn
Mar 6, 12:26 pm

>16 Whisper1: My handle is a play on my given name, and because I like the imagery it conjures up.

24BLBera
Mar 6, 4:19 pm

Happy new thread, Linda. I love the painting at the top. It is beautiful.

25johnsimpson
Mar 7, 4:27 pm

Hi Linda my dear, Happy New Thread dear friend.

26Whisper1
Editado: Mar 8, 3:50 am

BOOK #3 IN MONTH OF MARCH 2024

the Bicycle Man by Allen Say

What a gem of a book. This is a wonderful way to learn about Japanese culture through the eyes of a young boy who is describling a very special school dayl The description of the school in the south island of Japan located halfway up a tall green mountain is lush and beautitully rendered. How lovely to be able to see old sailing ships and hear the pounding of the waves for this vantage point.

The setting is a lovely spring day when the annual sportsday is held. The writer does an excellent joy of rendering the excitement of the day with special headbands worn indicating the team the child belongs. Coroeful flags and streamers adorn the poles carried with with chalk lines drawn. The principal sets the tone of sportsmanship and the idea of fun no matter who wins.

Then, there is a joint race of parents and teachers running alonside calling words of encouragement. And then, the winners approached the judges table to receive their prize from the principal. Wrapped in white paper and gold thread, each child walks to the table slowly recognizing the privilidge and honor that winning connotates.

There is a description of the family meal with attention to detail. More games are played in the afternon, with the fun of parents and teachers joining in the festivities.

And then the tone changes as two strangers, make the day important because they are American soldiers. One is very dark skinned, the other had "bright hair like fire." The author stresses physical characteristics to make the difference more profound. The World Was II is over and thus there is no fear of capture, harm or abandonment, simply the recognition that American soldiers are indeed strangers.

The principal gladly offers his bike to the tall black man who performs a series of stunts with the bike. Twisiting and turning, looking backward, leaping in the air with bike in hand, encourages the students to laugh. When the stunts are finished, a prize is given to the very tale American soldier. There is a sense of comradre and joy.

A special school day made all the more important by the inclusion of American Soliders, and two groups, previously at war, now have no need for weapons, only the sense of joy and revelry.

27Whisper1
Editado: Mar 8, 3:37 am

BOOK #4 IN THE MONTH OF MARCH 2024


Amy's Goose by Efner Tudor Holmes illustrations by Tasha Tudor

Everything Tasha tudo writes is so softly beautiful, and this is no exception. An only child, Amy expectantly waits for fall and the return of the geese. Happily, she heard the cry she was eagerly awaiting. The fall leaves were on the ground, there was a nip in the air, as the geese appeard in their chevron style. Faint, then louder the geese grew closer, breaking their v style as they approached the lake and the family potato field.

Because they always settled on the lake for a night, she and her father brought a sack of corn along to fed them Landing on the water and resting for the night until the morning, when they would be gone, headed south. Anticipating the pleasure of watching them as they flew in the mist, and left their piercing sound of good-bye. It was a haunting sound, the sound of leaving. Perceiving the geese as her friends, she knew she would miss them until their return.

Eating with her parents, was always a lovely event with three sitting round the table, hot food in front of them, but tonight she was in a hurry to see "her geese." Watching them on the monlit night was like a paitiing, and she longed once more to feel a part of this tablou. On this particular night, the geese were restless, afraid and confused. Some stayed on shore, others arose in their fright.

Her father noticed a fox that happened to get one of the geese and he flung the bag of corn at the fox to scare him away. Seeing blood on the neck of the goose, Amy was afraid the cut was to deep to save the goose,

Spending most of the day with the goose that was carefully taken care of away from the others, Amy carefully watched, nursed and hoped. . As the other geese called, the injured one turned to the side to listen and noted they did not leave without her While the geese circled, they would not leave as the white gander flew alone over the barn.

Amy went inside the barn, holding the neck of the goose, she cried and wished it would stay warm with her throughout the winter. Carying her friend out into the night the goose ran, and spread her wings. Rising to the moonlight, she joined her gander and togeher they joined the group who were waiting for them.

A small book, packed full of beatuty and the lesson of a male who would not leave his female behind, and a flock who would not leave without them.

Next year they would return and Amy would look for her friends again.

Exquisite art and a beautiful tale of nature, make this a special book that I will place on the shelf with my most precious illustrated beautes.

28Whisper1
Editado: Mar 14, 5:49 pm

BOOK #FIVE IN MONTH OF MARCH 2023

Read for American Authors Challenge



Other Voices, Other Rooms by Truman Capote

I wanted to like this book. I tried to understand it and get through the writing which at times was so heavy I felt as though I was living in the deep south with Capote's characters -- sweltering, steamy, humid, heavy and mind numbing.

This is filled with southern Gothic themes of a raggedy plantation, a crazy step mother, an Uncle that is more than bizarre, conversations that float and go no where, snakes, tom boys, dusty antiques, rambling back water roads and, of course black help who are rendered spiritualistic and much to my chagrin, are portrayed derogatorily.

This is his first novel and it starts with the theme that runs through all Capote's books, a person disenfranchised and unloved, searching for love in all the wrong places, longing to belong.

When twelve year old Joel receives a communication from a father he never knew, calling him home, he follows. Abandoned at birth, now that his mother dies, the child has no other option.

When he arrives in the deep south, he does not meet his father. Instead, he finds a crazy step mother and a host of others who are just too eccentric to be real. And, that is my quarrel with the book. The writing is much too composed for a twelve year old.

Capote gives too much intelligence to Joel. While there are beautiful phrases and vivid images, overall the characters were over developed, and in the end, nothing happened.

The reader is left with a feeling of disappointment.

No stars for this one!

29m.belljackson
Editado: Mar 14, 1:43 pm

Great Review Linda - just what the South needed was more put-downs of African Americans -

for an unexpectedly different view from another man from The Deep South, William Faulkner's Intruder in the Dust is a welcome surprise.

^^^^^^

A Christmas Memory is the only Capote I love to read, despite hating fruitcake!

30thornton37814
Mar 14, 7:33 pm

I hope you are feeling better than you were at the end of the previous thread.

31Whisper1
Mar 14, 10:20 pm

>30 thornton37814: Thanks Lori. I'm learning that age now plays a large part in recovery time. I'm out and about, helping to lead a grief support group in April. In the meantime, I wish I could read at a more rapid pace. I am spending time getting books in order, and that takes aways from reading time.

Also, while my house isn't huge, it is a bit too much for me to clean and keep every room in order. Overall, I remind myself there is a reason for the term "One day at a time!"

I hope you are well. Thank you for visiting here.

All good wishes to you.

32Whisper1
Mar 14, 10:26 pm

>29 m.belljackson: Marianane, I continue to return to my opionion of Capote. Going out on a limb and not wanting to hurt anyones feelings who may enjoy reading Capote's books, personally, I find him to be a whinner. When he deeply offended his group of high-class women who confided in him, his response to their hurt was "What did they expect! I am a writer!"

I have always felt friendship was special and if someone confided in me, it remains between the two of us. What he did in The Swans and Unanswered prayers, was not excusable. He raked their specrets and confidentiality over the coats and stomped on the ashes. That is not forgiveable. And, the fact taht he blatantly walked all over them, and shared they confidentiality and in doing so, made a lot of money.

I can imagine how those women felt. What he did was hot excusable.'

33Whisper1
Editado: Mar 15, 7:44 pm

BOOK NUMBER SIX IN THE MONTH OF APRIL 2024


Nora's Chicks by TPatricia MacLachlan

Nora's family moved from Russia. They moved in the hope of having a farm that will sustain their meals. Nora's brother is a baby and cannot talk with her. The next house can be seen, but it is not near. Nora's wants something of her own. Her father purchased baby chicken's to grow for food. Nora became very fond of the peeps and named each of them. One day a chick was missing. The neighbor girl, Susannah brought the chick to Nora. They then became friends.

One day, the chicks followed Nora and her friend to church. As her family walked down the aisle, so did the chickens. The minsiter smiled and said Welsome! "And welcome to Nora's chicks.

In addition to the chicks, a stray dog appears. Nora called him Milo. Now, she feels as though she has her mother, father, a brother., a family of chicks and a dog.

This isn't indepth, but it is a cute story.

34Whisper1
Editado: Mar 15, 8:19 pm

BOOK #SEVEN IN THE MONTH OF APRIL 2024


The Clown of God told and illustrated by Tomie DePaola

This is a French legend originally told by the master storyteller Anatole France. This is a story of a mother and fatherless child whose name was Giovanni. Roaming throughout the countryside, he learned to juggle. Sharing his talent brough him a lot of joy.
He helped a local man, Signor Baptista, sell his fruit and vegetables by juggling the oranges, apples, and lemons, and the eggplants and zucchini vegtables. In return, he was given a large bowl of soup at the end of the day.

As he grew older, Giovanni traveled more territory and used more items to juggle, including brightly colored balls. The brightest was a beautiful golden ball. As he grew older, he made mistakes. One day he dropped the rainbow of colored balls. He no longer was important and thus people threw vegtables, fruits and vegtetales . Running for his life, the old man walked back to Sorrento, the area where he began.

Cold and weary, he found a monestery church. He crept inside the church and found an area where he could sleep. Beautiful music awoke him and Giovannie found the church overwhelming in beauty.

Seeing a beautiful statue of the Lady and the Child. The child seemed so stern and sad. Giovannie wondered what gift he could give the mother and child, and then put his white makeup on his face, opened the bag containing his old items used to juggle,including sticks, plates, clubs and rings and multicolored balls that looked like a rainbow. Suddenly, at the end of his performance, he died.

The next day, the priest discovered the statue of the mother and child with the child smiling as he held the golden ball in his lap.

35Whisper1
Editado: Mar 15, 9:39 pm

BOOK #EIGHT MONTH OF MARCH 2024


Your Moon, My Moon A Grandmoter's Words to A Farwaway Child by Patricia MacLachlan

This is a beautifully illustrated book, depicting the emotions of a child and grandmother who live in different parts of the world, and long to be together more often. As always, this author writes with a depth of feeling and emotions that are heartfelt. She begins with the differences in the weather wherein she is experiencing snow, in Africa, her grandson is livling where the sun is hot. She writes of memories of reading books to him, and now he reads books, mainly about the moon.

Where she lives, there is ice skating on the pond of frozen ice. And if he were there with her, she would hold his hand and skate with him. Where he is, there is swimming on a lake and sand castles are made with the hot sand. He has sweet dogs and so does she.

It is obvious she loves her grandson and longs to keep the connection tied tight. This is a beautiful book highly recommended to any grand parent and grand child.

Four Stars

36Whisper1
Editado: Mar 16, 12:22 am

Este mensaje fue borrado por su autor.

37BLBera
Mar 16, 10:58 am

Hi Linda. I think Nora's Chicks would be a great book for my granddaughter who is now raising chickens! I love the Say illustrations. I hope you are well.

38Whisper1
Editado: Mar 16, 10:03 pm

BOOK #9 MONTH OF MARCH 2024


An A From Miss Keller by Patricia Polacco

I am drawn to the works of this artist. Each book tells a story from her young life. Patricia Polacco weaves very poignant stories of lessons learned from her childhood. While the illustrations seem large and unartistic, still, I am impressed that each book is rendered with facial expressions that follow the story. Each character is drawn with the emotion that accompanies the feeling.

This is yet another book in which the author focuses on the teachers who made a difference in her life. In this book, Miss Keller is one of those teachers we all may have had in school. This is a teacher who pushes her students to write to the best of what she expects, a story with feeling, meaning and something that grabs the reader to continue finish the work.

This is a teacher who may scare most students because she is very blunt about her expectations, and calls out the student in class to express what is lacking. In turn, this helps others understand what is needed to qualify for an A. And, rumor has it that Miss "Killer Keller" never gives an A to any student.

No matter how hard she tries, Trica cannot write to Ms Keller's standards. Frustrated, Trica is disappointed and takes the admonishments hard. Then, when her beloved neighborhood man, known as "Pop," dies, Trica has the courage and the depth of meaning to write what is needed for an A.

Writing from experience of grief, love and the soul retching feeling of losing a wonderful friend who has impacted on her life, Trica is now able to write from her pain and express the love felt for a man who impacted and helped so many. Cookies were baked, stories were told, and a seat on the steps when a listening ear is needed. Pop listened to Trica's depiction of this teacher as the meanest. Later, he told the story of how Miss Keller mentored his son, and later in life paid his college tuition.

When Miss Keller tells her to bring a thesaurus to school and to look up the overused word "love." Pop was helpful in providing a thesaurus to Trica. Later, when the assignment to interview an older person was given to the class, Pop was the subject of her asssignment. Telling her the story of his son and how hard he worked for Miss Keller and how assignments were picked apart and made to work over and over until he got it right.

Her ability and caring to send Pop's son to college, changed his life. He wrote for many of the biggest newspapers, and received a Pulitzer Prize for writing. This is the story of Miss Keller and her devotion to her class members.

Tragically, Pop died. Through her grief, Trica now wrote with depth of feeling, and she received an A for her personal narrative.

39Whisper1
Editado: Mar 16, 11:00 pm

BOOK NUMBER 10 MONTH OF MARCH 2024


Always With You by Ruth Vander Zee and illustrated by Ronald Himler

This story is based on true consequences.

Before she dies, Kim's mother tells her that she will always be with her. She is killed as a result of the bombing of the area where they live in Viet Nam. Kim lives, but is blinded by the butt of a gun to her head. She is rendered blind. Rescued by American soldiers, she is taken to an orphanage where the love of Ong and Ba Jones, who run the orphange, she lives there for five years.

When she is afraid, Kim always remembers her mother's words and knows her mother is with her throughout. Told from the perspective of the American soldiers as heros, and therein lies a problematic depicture of who is the hero and who is the villian. Who is responsible for the bombing?

40Whisper1
Editado: Mar 16, 11:51 pm

BOOK NUMBER 11 READ IN MARCH 2024



White Fur Flying by Patricia MacLachlan

A loving family of mother, father and two sisters, rescue and place Geat Pyrenees dogs. Brushed often, still there is always white fur adhering to almost every surface. There is a constant place of dogs rescued and brought into this home to be placed in another. It takes a lot of love and patience to get attached to a dog only to find a home for him/her. But, there is one dog that remains with them and this dog will perform a wonderful task when a little boy is dropped off at the neighbors house.

The family learns that he refuses to talk, and is very attached to their family dog. The two sisters grow to love the little boy, and the mother welcomes the little boy's aunt with whom he lives.

A nice story with a bit of drama, lots of love and the mission to help a little boy relearn to talk.

41Whisper1
Editado: Mar 17, 12:33 am

BOOK NUMBER 12 READ IN MARCH 2024


The Legend of Indian Paintbrush retold and illustrated by Tomie dePaola

This author is known for writing and illustrating folklore. In this book, he focuses on the story of a little boy who lived on the plains. His trible lived in a circle of teepees. Most of the other boys were pursuing active feats of riding horses, running, shooting their bow and arrows, and wrestling with each other.

Because this young boy was much smaller, he felt different and not part of the group. His name was Little gopher and he was very artistic. The wise man (shaman) of the tribe told him his gift was very special and his place is different from the others, and he will be thought of for his artistic talents.

Going to the hills alone to discern his path and how he fits in with the tribe, he had a dream vision. He watched the clouds and saw a young Indian maiden and old grandfather. She helped him with his talent of painting the animal skins. The grandfather gave him tools and the young maiden instructed him to find a white buckskin to paint the colors of the sky.

His dream came true when he was given special paintbrushes and pots of paints. He found a white buckskin. Thereafter he beautifully painted the stories of the people. When he was finished with the paintbrushes, he placed them in the ground. They became lush flowers that covered the ground. The people called him He Who Brought the Sunset to the Earth.

42Berly
Mar 17, 12:01 pm

Hello dear Linda! Happy new thread and I love the topper: photo, sentiments and poem. And I am very glad you are starting to feel better! I am also headed in the right direction, but need to get a second stronger antibiotic today. As you said, one day at a time. : ) Happy St. Patrick's Day! Hugs.

43fuzzi
Mar 17, 5:53 pm

>35 Whisper1: oh. My. I will check out that one. I've not seen my granddaughters since July 2022, and we won't be able to visit again this summer. Thank goodness for FaceTime.

>37 BLBera: I loved that book enough to find a copy online for my granddaughters!

44Whisper1
Mar 17, 7:37 pm

>42 Berly: Hi Kim. I hope your second stronger antibiotic works. You've struggled too long. Hugs right back.
>43 fuzzi: Fuzzi, These illustrated books are addictive. A friend visited yesterday and wondered why I wasn't storing away the books I read to my neighborhood children when they were little. I told her, it was my library and I'm reading them. She seemed surprised.

45fuzzi
Mar 17, 9:05 pm

>44 Whisper1: her loss, your gain.

Bummer, Your Moon, My Moon is NOT in the public library system.

I will see if ILL can get me a copy.

46Whisper1
Mar 17, 9:44 pm

BOOK #13 READ IN MONTH OF MARCH 2024


A Place to Hang the Moon by Kat Albus

Three children are left adrift with no home when their unloving grandmother dies. They saw her as unfeeling and cold, and they were correct. She didn't leave any instructions or plans for her grandchildren in her will. She did leave money, but no security. There was an uncle present at the gathering after the funeral, but that is the last he is mentioned.

Not only are they without anyone to care for them, but WWII hit England with a terror of bombs. It was difficult to find safe houses for one child let alone three children who wanted to stay together. Through their sheer determination, they remained together.

Their experiences were at times caring, but mainly cruel. They experienced a host of nasty occurrences, and were not loved until they found a wonderful librarian who wanted and loved them.

47Whisper1
Editado: Mar 18, 9:17 pm

BOOK #14 IN MONTH OF MARCH 2024


Enchanter's Spell Five Famous Tales narrated and illustrated by Gennady Spirin

This is the first book re-told and illustrated by Gennady Spirin that I am a bit dissapointed with. The illustrations don't seem as in depth, and the retelling of the tales is, in some instances far off from the original telling of the story.

48Whisper1
Editado: Mar 18, 8:27 pm

BOOK #15 IN MONTH OF MARCH 2024



Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds
National Book Award Finalist

This is a haunting story regarding gun violence and how it continues from one member of a family to another.
When Will watches his older brother, Shawn, get shot and dies as a result, Will becomes obsessed to avenge Shawn's death.
When he finds Shawn's gun in his dresser drawer, he has a decision to make. Packing the pistol, he continues to feel an emptiness he never felt before.

Remembering the rules of the neighborhood regarding shootings,

1) NO CRYING
2) NO SNITCHING
3) REVENGE

Will enters an elevator that contains seven people he knew who were killed by gun violence. Written in a sparse poetic form, both violence and the repercussions are vividly told.

Can Will avenge Shawn's killer after his interactions with those in the elevator after they tell their story?

49Whisper1
Editado: Mar 18, 8:53 pm

BOOK #16 READ IN MARCH 2024


Geraldine by Elizabeth Lilly

When Geraldine the giraffe moves from Giraffe City into a town where she is the only giraffe. She obviously doesn't fit in, and her moniker becomes "Giraffe Girl, she feels terribly lonely.

Meeting Cassie, also an outcast because she dresses much differently and has obsessive compulsive traits and is made fun of, changes Geraldine.

Geraldine learns she doesn't need an entire school to like her, one good friend who is also unique is wonderful.

Highly recommended to parents who search for ways to help a child transition to a new atmosphere. The wonderful illustrations carry the story.

50Whisper1
Editado: Mar 19, 9:22 pm

Este mensaje fue borrado por su autor.

51Whisper1
Editado: Mar 19, 9:43 pm

BOOK #17 READ IN MARCH 2014

Kaleidoscope by Brian Selznick


Kaleidoscope by Brian Selznick

Short stories with same returning characters. Overall it was very disjointed and unreadable.

I cannot recommend this one.

NO STARS

52foggidawn
Mar 19, 11:44 am

I didn't care for Kaleidoscope, either. I often like Selznick's art, but the story (if you can call it that) was too disconnected.

53Owltherian
Mar 19, 11:55 am

>48 Whisper1: I just had to read that book!

54Whisper1
Editado: Mar 19, 9:41 pm

BOOK #18 READ MARCH 2024


On Meadowview Street by Henry Cole

Caroline and her family move to Meadowview Street. Because all lawns are small and cookie cutter the same, Caroline found a flower in the lawn, and asked her father not to mow this lawn space. Soon, she found other flowers, this then led to the planting of a tree, and birdhouses adorned the limbs. Next, her father helped to dig a pond. Soon, many neighbors decided to do the same and thus Meadowview Street became known for its name.

55Whisper1
Mar 19, 10:12 pm

BOOK #19 READ MARCH 2024


Sharing the Seasons: A Book of Poems by Lee Bennett Hopkins

This is a beautifully illustrated book of poems for each season. This one is from the season of Spring:

SUDDENLY GREEN BY JAMES HAYFORD

So suddenly greet
Our whole outdoor scene:

It's happened so fast
We're already grassed

Out trees have grown skin
And birds have moved in

What strikes me this spring
Is the speed of the thing.

56vancouverdeb
Mar 20, 1:42 am

You read so many beautiful books and share such wonderful illustrations with us, Linda, thank you! Thanks to for the retirement wishes for Dave. He told me this evening that his supervisor asked him what he would like for his last day at work and he told - how about I get off the early ? So his supervisor said okay, just come into work in the morning on Thursday and say good bye to us all. I think they will a little party for him at work, so he'll be finished with work before we know it. Nora's Chicks looks lovely! I am partial to terrier dogs, so that dog really grabs me.

It is sort of hard to believe that tomorrow is the 1 st official day of Spring, but it is. The weather here has been quite warm and sunny, though I think we have rain again again tomorrow.

57msf59
Editado: Mar 20, 7:47 am

You sure enjoy taking comfort in these children's books, Linda and thanks for sharing all the lovely illustrations.

Sorry that the latest Selznick was such a dud. I loved his earlier graphic novels.

58BLBera
Mar 20, 9:42 am

>48 Whisper1: Long Way Down sounds like a good one, Linda.

>49 Whisper1: I love these illustrations. They make me smile.

59figsfromthistle
Mar 20, 10:41 am

>51 Whisper1: What a great cover. Too bad the content did not match up.

Hope your week is going well so far.

60Whisper1
Mar 23, 12:11 am

>56 vancouverdeb: Deb All good wishes to Dave for his retirement. In November, I'll be retired five years. I look back and now that I could not handle the job and all the stress now. I hope you will and Dave will have a lot of wonderful years together without the stress of a job.

61Whisper1
Mar 23, 12:13 am

>57 msf59: Mark, The illustrated books are what I need right now in my life. I find a lot of joy in reading and observing the illustrations.
They bring a lot of joy, and these books aren't simply for children. I'm sure you are reading a lot to that lovely grandson of yours. I love the photos of him and his chubby little cheeks. He is such a joy!!!

62Whisper1
Mar 23, 12:15 am

>58 BLBera: Beth, the book addresses gun violence, this is something that is way too present in our society.

>49 Whisper1: Geraldine is wonderfully illustrated.

63Whisper1
Mar 23, 12:19 am

>63 Whisper1: Hi Anita. I was very disappointed in this book. I usually like Selznick's books, but this one was way too disjointed and not only was I disappointed, but also very let down by his lack of focus.

Thanks for your good wishes. I'm hoping the weekend will be better. It was a week of pain that I couldn't control. Tomorrow is slated to bring a lot of rain. I'll continue to try to get some books in order, and if I'm able, I'll work a bit in the basement.

I hope your weekend will be relaxing, and will bring a book or two or more your way.

64Whisper1
Editado: Mar 23, 2:33 am

BOOK #20 IN MARCH 2024


Followed By the Lark by Helen Humphreys

This is a lovely book. Written about the life of Henry David Thoreau, the pace is just right. A member of the Transcendentalist movement, Thoreau looked to Ralph Waldo Emerson for a way to live simply, with a hightened awareness of nature and creation with a deep belief in the supremecy of the goodness of humanity.

Best known for his book on his time lived on Walden Pond, located in Concord, Mass. where he lived two years, two months and two days. He built a cabin overlooking the water and each day her recorded the sounds, thoughts and feelings experienced during his time there.

His book is a staple for any college American Literature class. I've read many of Humphrey's books, and they never disappoint. If you are looking for a book of excitement, this won't be the book for you. But if you are looking for a well written book that speaks to a quiet life of simplicity, then you may like this one!

I've visited Walden Pond two or three times, and each time it was a joy to walk quietly through the soft ground of leaves and pine needles in the lane leading to where Thoreau's cabin was located. There is a cairn next to where the cabin was.

Highly recommended!

4.5 Stars

65Whisper1
Editado: Mar 23, 7:07 pm

BOOK #21 IN MONTH OF MARCH 2024


Fly Away Home by Eve Bunting with illustrations of Ronald Himler

Eve Bunting is an author who does not shy away from difficult subjects. She writes with a depth of feeling while handling subjects many auhtors of children's books might not want to cover.

In this book, the author writes a story about homelessness, and grief. Written from a young boy's perspective, he grieves the loss of his mother, and the loss of the home his family lived in. Now, he and his father live in an airport. Spending time trying not to be found, they have a system that works well for hiding from the security guards while looking busy.

During the day, his father found another homeless family to look out for the boy. The boys collect luggage carts that people left outside and return them for .50 cents each. If crowds are busy and safe, the boys offer to carry heavy bags for women. If they are fortunate, they receive tips. The money is kept in their shoes.

The meals are standard: a container of milk and a donut for breakfast. When his father returns from his work, he buys hamburgers for them, and also for the family that helps watch him during the day.

Longing for a home like it was when his mother was alive, sometimes the boy shares his feelings with his father. His father reminds him they are safe and warm. The sadness sets in when he watches people greet each other after their flight lands. He tries to fight back tears when he questions why those people are more lucky than them.

The author does a wonderful job of writing about difficult subjects told from the perspective of a young boy. When the boy saw a bird who was inside the terminal and tried to fly away, hitting the glass, it fell and harmed its wing. Then, one day the sliding door opened and the bird flew away. The young boy knew that even though he could not hear the bird, it was singing when it flew home.

Excellently written with illustrations that follow this heart-wrenching story.

66Whisper1
Mar 23, 3:26 am

67klobrien2
Mar 23, 12:34 pm

>65 Whisper1: I’ve got Fly Away Home requested, Linda. Looks like another great read. Thanks for the heads-up!

Karen O

68Whisper1
Mar 23, 6:53 pm

Karen, Fly Away Home is a good book. The father really is trying to hold it together. I'm curious to see what you think after you read it.

69Whisper1
Editado: Mar 23, 7:12 pm

BOOK #22 READ MARCH 2024


Flower Garden by Eve Bunting

This is a beautifully illustrated story of a family who live in an apartment building. The mother and father purchase a flower box, soil and many lovely flowers to carefully place in the box and place in on the ledge of their apartment window.

The colors chosen are lovely and make a stunning present for the father and daughter to put together as a surprise to be placed on the outside ledge of the apartment window.

The entire process of finding the right sized box, and the flowers that reflect the most visual color that people beloew can find joy when looking up.



70Whisper1
Editado: Mar 23, 10:10 pm

BOOK #23 READ IN MARCH 2024


Agatha May and the Anglerfish by Nora Morrison & Jessie Ann Foley illustrated by Mika Song

Agatha May is a messy little girl. Her desk is a terrible mess. In addition, she spends more time coloring and day dreaming than paying attention to studies.

Her face is smeared with colors. Her lunch is all over any surface she touches. She rarely pays attention, and is every teacher's nightmare.

However, when the assignment of reporting on a favorite sea creature, Agatha May delves into the assignment and enjoys coloring the images she produces and she is excited about showing the presentation she has pulled together for the class.
Finally, the teacher and class think that she can indeed hold herself together long enough as long as she is excited about the subject.

71Whisper1
Editado: Mar 23, 10:34 pm

BOOK #24 READ IN MARCH 2024


The Biggest Bear by Lynd Ward

Written in 1952, this black and white book won an Caldecott Medal. The story of a young boy who found a baby bear. His family live on a farm. Usually each farm has a bear fur tacked on the barn. Johnny's house is different in that it does not have a bear skin.

When he tries to find a home far away from their house, the bear is attached to Johnny and always returns. On the final time when he knows he has to take the bear far, far away, the bear and the boy became trapped inside a large wooden facility. Men found them and explained that the bear will be taken to a zoo in the city and will be well taken care of.

Johnny knows his bear loves maple sugar, and he promises the bear that he will visit him and bring lots of maple sugar.


72Whisper1
Editado: Mar 23, 10:55 pm

BOOK #25 READ MARCH OF 2024


Cat Talk by Patricia MacLachlan and her daughter Emily MacLachlan Charest

This lovely book is an ode to cats, those who have kittens, those who are strays who come in from the rain, those who are the boss and let their owner know they are in charge.

Then, there are cats that like to crawl under the covers at night, others who are beatiful with white fur. some ar born in the farmer's barn, and there are cats who love to wait and then surprise the people who care for them.

Anone who loves cats will like this book.

73Whisper1
Editado: Mar 23, 11:26 pm

BOOK #26 IN THE MONTH OF MARCH 2024


Bear Feels Scared by Karma Wilson

A cute book which tells the story of bear who at first headed for a secure home with his other critters, but then grew hungry and went back to look for food. In returning, he became lost. It grew dark, windy, cold and scary. In the meantime, his friends are very worried and because they care, they ventured out into the dark, cold forest.

This is a book for younger readers who will feel good about animals taking care of each other.



74Whisper1
Editado: Mar 24, 12:10 am

Este mensaje fue borrado por su autor.

75Whisper1
Mar 24, 12:06 am

BOOK #27 READ IN MARCH 2024


Frog Song by Brenda Z. Guiberson Illustrated by Gennady Spirin

As always, the team of Brenda Guiberson and Gennady Spirin together create another stunningly illustrated book that tells the life of frogs throughout the world. Spirin's illustrations make the frog seem real, and the reader can almost actually feel the skin, hear the frog song, and watch as the eggs are safely tucked away. Each frog has a unique way of protecting the eggs until they hatch.

The bright orange and blue shiny colored strawberry poison dart frog of Costa Rica trills a sound as a pile of wet leaves becomes the home for eggs. Carrying each hatched tadpole to a separate poll of water high up in the trees.

In the United States, Oklahoma and the lovely Great Plains contain a narrow mouthed toad tyaing moist in a shady spider hole..then when it rains, a song is belted on as they live with a tarantula.

Incredibly in Ecuador, the Surinam toad makes a rattling sound as the female carious 100 eggs! Hard to believe, but 100 eggs are carried in the skin on her back, as she dips and dives for food in the mud. Four months later, froglets break right through the skin and swim free.

Interestingly is the Scarlet-sided pobblebonk who hails from Northeastern Australia. After a heavy rain, the female lays egss of the water and whips up the gooey mess into a ball of bubbles. The ball of bubbles protects the eggs as the float of a raft of whipped up mess.

These are but a few of the frogs beautifully illustrated and intelligently described.

The author notes at the end of the book, that today, one third of frogs struggle to survive. They need clear water, clean air and lots of plants, all of which are sparse in many areas of the world.

76jessibud2
Mar 24, 8:26 am

>73 Whisper1: - I had all the Karma Wilson *Bear* books in my classroom when I was teaching. The illustrations are wonderful and the text is lyrical. We loved them. I gave them to my cousin's daughter when she had her baby a couple of years ago.

77Whisper1
Mar 24, 1:20 pm

I got the Bear book from the library. I enjoyed the illustrations.

78BLBera
Mar 24, 1:37 pm

All the picture books look wonderful, Linda! Thanks for taking the time to post the illustrations. I enjoy them very much.

Followed by the Lark sounds like one I would enjoy. I have liked Humphreys' work.

79m.belljackson
Mar 24, 1:41 pm

>71 Whisper1: the BIGGEST BEAR looks like a Classic old Winner, Linda -

and so great for a Happy Ending!

80klobrien2
Mar 24, 3:05 pm

>72 Whisper1: I just read Cat Talk yesterday, too! I loved it—the paintings are gorgeous, and the book is SO all-things-cat.

Hope you’re having a great weekend!

Karen O

81magicians_nephew
Mar 25, 10:21 am

Thank you for posting all the images from the books. Books aren't just words. They're pictures too.

Want to get a copy of The Biggest Bear

82Whisper1
Mar 26, 12:28 am

>78 BLBera: Hi Beth, Marianne Jackson pointed the way toward this excellent book. It's well written without drama, simply a nice book to read while sitting in a comfortable chair.

>79 m.belljackson: Hi Friend. It is an old book -- as old as me. It was published in 1952, the same year I was born.

>80 klobrien2: Hi Karen Cat talk is just as you described it! It was a cold day today. I didn't go out except to get my mail. Then, this evening my friend and neighbor invited me to go to the dollar store with her. I was able to find items that grand daughter Kayla needed for her class where she teaches 4 year olds. I was able to find pipe cleaners and sold solid chocolate eggs, minus peanut butter.

We had fun. I put two carts together, and as I was taking them back to the store, they came apart. I ran through the parking lot trying to get the cart before it hit something. Luckily, I was successful. I heard her laughter as I was running. I very much enjoy her company. Cathy got me through a lot of tough days after Will died.

>81 magicians_nephew: Hi Jim. I hope you are Judy are well. Yes, well put regarding Books being pictures as well as words. I got the Biggest Bear from the library, or I would send the copy to you.

83Whisper1
Editado: Mar 26, 12:51 am

BOOK #28 FOR MONTH OF MARCH 2024



This is a stunning book for incredible dresses designed by Mary McFadden. There were a lot of dresses I very much liked. I wonder what it would be like to live the high life of lots of money, a very high-end New York City apartment, with extra funds to travel the world to collect ideas for fashioning exquisite dresses.

Highly Recommended!

Mary McFadden: A Lifetime of Design, Collecting, and Adventure by Mary McFadden with Murry Gell-Mann writer of introduction.



My favorites are the first and the last gowns shown.

84fuzzi
Mar 26, 9:07 am

>69 Whisper1: that's a gorgeous book!

Your post reminded me of a story I read in Highlights for Children way back in the 1960s or maybe early 1970s. A little girl lived in the city, on Golpen Street. She spent time at a camp in the country and loved the flowers so much she planted some when she got home. What transpired afterwards was heart-warming. And I remember it, 50+ years later!

85fuzzi
Mar 26, 9:08 am

>72 Whisper1: I liked it!

86m.belljackson
Mar 26, 2:06 pm

>82 Whisper1: Linda - THE BIGGEST BEAR is winding its slow abe.com Thrift book way from Reno to Wisconsin.

87quondame
Mar 26, 4:32 pm

>83 Whisper1: I adore the grey coat, but would like it even better in the rich burgundy or bright red!

88Whisper1
Editado: Mar 27, 12:21 am

>84 fuzzi: I purchased this book. In my need to get books inorder, one of the large plastic tubs is labalbed ILLUSTRATED BOOK FAVORITES. The Eve bunting book is in that container. I remember the Highlights publication.

>85 fuzzi: the expressions on the faces of the cats were fun to see.

>86 m.belljackson: Hi Mariane. The biggest Bear was colored in black and white. I like that it had a happy ending

>87 quondame: Susan I agree. The coat with rich burgundy would be exquisite.

I had such fun with this book. She really was quite a designer.

89Whisper1
Editado: Mar 27, 12:44 am

BOOK #29 IN MARCH OF 2024


One Snowy Night by Nick butterworth

The illustrations and the story were charming. I very much like to see illustrated images of snow. In this story, the park ranger has a cute little cottage. He shares his means with a lot of the critters.

One stormy, snowy night when the animals are packed in the cold snow, they knock of the ranger's door for compfort and saftey.

One little animal lead to another, to another and then to others. There were so many animals that the bed could not contain all of them.

I liked this one for the sheer story of the kind-hearted ranger.



90alcottacre
Mar 27, 6:02 am

>83 Whisper1: I know absolutely nothing about fashion, but some of those pieces are gorgeous! Thanks for sharing them with us, lovey.

I hope you have a wonderful Wednesday!

91fuzzi
Mar 27, 9:38 am

>89 Whisper1: that looks like a winner!

You review the best books.

92figsfromthistle
Mar 27, 12:13 pm

>64 Whisper1: Excellent review! Bb for me. Sounds like a wonderful read.

>83 Whisper1: Darn! you hit me with another BB. I will see if my library has this.

Happy mid week.

93Whisper1
Editado: Mar 28, 12:41 am

BOOK #30 READ IN THE MONTH OF MARCH 2024


When Lulu Went To The Zoo by Andy Ellis

The illustrations are creatively cute. Lulu loves to go to the zoo, but hates to see all the animals in their cages. Because she is skinny and little, she found a way to get through the bars and open the cages. She paraded them out of the zoo and into her home. No parents are shown, and the only adults are the zoo keepers at the end who demand the animals be returned.

Unrealistic, but oh so cute. I liked this book.

Lule is on a mission to free the animals and provide a happy home. Unfortunately, she cannot possibly have space or food for them.



Highly recommended for the sheer joy of the story and illustrations.

94Whisper1
Mar 28, 12:20 am

>90 alcottacre: Stasia, like you, I know nothing about fashion, but I like to look at the stunning outfits. Thanks for stopping by!

95Whisper1
Editado: Mar 28, 12:27 am

>91 fuzzi: Hi fuzzi, thanks for your kind comments!!

>92 figsfromthistle: Anita, thanks for visiting here. I've long been a fan of Helen Humphreys. I highly recommend The Frozen Thames. I purchased this book a long time ago, and cannot remember where I found it. I already donated it to my library, or I would have sent it to you.

You might put a hold on this via Thrfitbooks.com

https://www.thriftbooks.com/browse/?b.search=Mary%20McFadden%3A%20A%20Lifetime%2...

96Whisper1
Editado: Mar 29, 7:36 pm

BOOK #31 READ IN THE MONTH OF MARCH 2024


Be Kind by Pat Zietlow Miller with lovely illustrations of Jen Hill

This is a wonderful message regarding kindness. When a schoolmate spilled purple juice on her pretty dress,it was easier for the class to laugh, than to be kind. One girl knew the difference and remembered that her mother always told her to be kind.

This book goes beyond a platitude of being kind, it also defines kindness that can be shown in so many different ways. Kindness is in the small things, that mean a lot such as making cookies for an elderly man living alone, giving your too tight shoes to someone with smaller feet, putting dirty dishes in the sink and small acts of kindness like telling someone you like the color of their shoes, or listening to an Aunt's stories that you may have heard before.

The character in this book remembers that her mother told her to always search for ways to be kind. There are many small and large ways to be kind every day. Simply look around you and try to be kind. This sounds like a platitude, but it is oh so true for both young and old.

97Whisper1
Editado: Mar 28, 8:16 pm

BOOK #32 READ IN THE MONTH OF MARCH 2024


It's Time to Sleep, My Love by Nancy Tillman written by Eric Metaxas

Yet another beautifully illustrated book by Nancy Tillman I think I've read all of the books in this series, and this completes the goal of completion.

I've often said that I cannot draw a straight line with a ruler, and therefore when I see such lush illustrations, I am in awe.

As the title notes, this is a story of adult animals, softly repeating the same phrase in order to bring about sleep.

As with all this artist's books, the illustations carry the story.

98vancouverdeb
Mar 28, 1:29 am

Cat Talk is gorgeous, Linda. What beautiful illustrations. Be Kind sounds lovely too. What child , or adult couldn't benefit from that message. Thanks for sharing with us all.

99m.belljackson
Mar 28, 11:13 am

Hi Linda and hope this Easter week is treating you good!

The sweet little copy of THE FROZEN THAMES arrived quickly - so inviting
and thank you for the Review which made it irresistible.

100Whisper1
Mar 28, 9:15 pm

>98 vancouverdeb: Thanks for your feedback Deb!
>99 m.belljackson: Maarianne, I really liked the Frozen Thames. I hope you like it as well.

101Berly
Mar 28, 10:01 pm

Popping in to say Hi! Hope all is well. I see the reading is. ; ) Love the cool dresses in the middle of your wonderful children's books. Hugs.

102Whisper1
Mar 29, 2:38 am

>101 Berly: Hi Kim. Thanks for stopping by! I've come down with another respiratory infection. I went to the doctor to get meds to hopefully stay out of the hospital.

Good luck with your new job!!!

103Whisper1
Editado: Mar 29, 7:35 pm

BOOK #33 IN THE MONTH OF MARCH 2024


The Snowy Nap by Jan Brett

Jan Brett's books never cease to amaze. She is incredibly talented, and I simply enjoy looking at her marvelous astistry. Young Hedgie the hedgehog feels the chill in the air and knows snow is not far behind. This year, Hedgie vows to stay awake throughout the winter and enjoy the beauty of fresh snow that coats every thing around the farm. This year, Hedgie doesn't want to miss a minute.

This is yet another beautiul book that I've come to expect from Jan Brett. While Snowy wants to stay awake, she is having a difficult time keeping her eyes open. Young Lisa loves all the creatures that live on the farm. She makes a special basket bed for Hedgie and brings her inside. Every day there is something new to watch. The chicken coup sparkles; Lisa's skating around the ice with the ducks brings special joy. And this year she is awake long enough to see the snowmen Lisa made. Every day Hedgie had a more difficult time staying awake. But, one day she awakes to all the animals that belong in the barn and in the woods now inside the house.

I always enjoy the creativity of this artist.

104m.belljackson
Mar 29, 2:50 pm

Linda - John will Love the Hedgehog of The Snowy Nap!

and I will look for both that little one and the totally beautiful discovery you found of

It's Time to Sleep, my Love!!!

105fuzzi
Mar 29, 3:12 pm

106atozgrl
Mar 29, 3:31 pm

>96 Whisper1: What a great message, not just for kids, but for us adults too! I think that message is badly needed these days, for all of us. I recently picked up an old issue of Guideposts, and someone had submitted the following: "Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind. Always." I felt like I needed to cut that out and post it somewhere where I'll see it every day.

>97 Whisper1: More absolutely gorgeous illustrations!

>102 Whisper1: Oh no, I hate to hear you've gotten another infection. I hope this one leaves, pronto!

107Whisper1
Mar 29, 7:48 pm

>101 Berly: Hi Kim. I love to study fashion. The dresses in this book were lush and stunningly beautiful.

108Whisper1
Editado: Mar 29, 8:33 pm

BOOK #34 READ IN MONTH OF MARCH 2024


Animals Marco Polo Saw: An Adventure on the Silk Road by Sandra Markle

This book entices me to learn more about Marco Polo, and the Silk Road. A few years ago, I found a book written by an author who took a nasty trip into the world of pure herion, found along the Silk Road. It was a pretty scary book.

As the title notes, this is an informative book regarding Marco Polo and focuses on the places found and the animals and varied climates.

In 1271, Marco Polo took an amazing trip and traveled the Silk Road by horseback acompanyied by his father and uncle. The were traders of silk, and decided to learn more about the location where the goods were found. Leaving Italy and arriving in Cathay, modern-day China, and then deciding to travel beyond for information about the silk clothe business, and also their goal was to meet the great emperor of China, Kublai Khan.

As the description in the jacket cover notes, traveling through Eastern Europe, the Middle East, across Mt. Ararat, and into the Far East, the great explorer was amazed not only by the people he met, but also by the animals found along the way.

Great Asian Elephants and Persion lions were but a few they encountered. This lush book of illustrations is simply indescribable. And, filled with facts that were unknown to me, I read the book, and then immediately re-read it again. I did not know that to make silk, a specific moth caterpillar's cacoon is dipped into boiling water and then the threads are unwound. As the author notes, it takes 2,500 to 3,000 cacoons to net one yard of silk cloth.

When awar occurred, their orginal route was blocked and the new route took them to Uzbekistan. Meeting Kublai Khan was an incredible experience. And, there were dangers along the way when they were attacked in the strong dessert winds. Some of their party wre killed and goods were stolen, but fortunately, most escaped.

There were unique snow cats, oxen, giant colorful birds, Yaks, and sheep with horns and if uncurled would be 5 feet long.
When he returned, his world was forever expanded. As the book notes, upon return a battle between Venice and Genoa, Italy brough capture for them. While a captive, he and his men told the stories of where they were and what they found.

The is a stunning book, not only for the information enclosed, but also for the trials and travails found along the way.

Highly Recommended!!!

109Whisper1
Editado: Mar 30, 12:25 am

BOOK #35 READ IN MARCH 2024


Honey, Honey, Lion! by Jan Brett

A cute book regarding turning the tide on the other and getting even. In Africa, two animals work together with end end result of sharing the reward. The Honeyguide and the Honey badger are partners. Usually, the honeyguide finds the honeycomb and the honey badger, with long claws, cracks open the honeycomb and both share the reward.

Until, one day, greedy, hungry honey badger selfishly eats all the honey. Honeyguide is not happy and decides to lead a chase to what the badger thinks is his share.

However, on his tail was a huge lion. Badger ran as fast as possible, missing the lion's claws by mere inches.



110Whisper1
Mar 31, 12:13 pm

BOOK #36 READ IN MONTH OF MARCH


Remembering Vera by Patricia Polacco

This is a very heartwarming, true story of a puppy found by a coast guard serviceman who tried to keep the news away from the Commander. Taught to jump high to retrieve objects, Vera, named after the serviceman's favorite Aunt, is loved by all. When an emergency call was received requiring the coast guard unit to get a lifeline to the capsized boat, it was Vera who saved the lives of those on the boat.

By using the feats she was taught, she recused those in need. This particular day, the Commander watched as Vera saved lives. He too became smitten with Vera, and soon she had a bed beside his desk. When a ferry capsized and got caught in a rip tide in the area off Alcatraz, CA, it was Vera who saved those who were trapped below deck. Fearlessly, she dove time and time again to save the lives of many. As a result, she was compromised. The Commander made sure she had the best veterinary care possible.
She received a medal for valor and was made an honorary member of the coast guard.

Each year Vera had two litters of puppies. Everyone wanted one of Vera's puppies. She came into the life of the author who was volunteering at the Oakland, CA SPCA when it was time to help Vera transition to a better life. After treating Vera all those years, she became special to the vet staff as well. After putting her to sleep, a complete military honor guard entered. Vera's small casket was saluted and had a special burial site under her favorite tree.

Patricia Polacco has a unique way of writing about relationships, and many of her books bring tears. This one was no exception.
Years later, when the author wanted to find Vera's burial site, she learned that that particular area was not in the area they searched. She was able to find Vera's burial site and she brought her young grandson to Vera's location.

This is a very special book especially to be read and understood by those of us who had the experience of a wonderful relationship with a beloved animal.

Highly Recommended.

111mdoris
Mar 31, 3:11 pm

<110 Hi Linda, that sounds like a gem of a book! Thank you, I will try and get it from the library.

112streamsong
Abr 1, 1:46 pm

I hope you are feeling better!

I'm caught up with your lovely reading. Thank you so much for posting the illustrations! They make your thread such a delight.

Followed by the Lark sounds irresistible. It's not in my library system yet, but I'll keep an eye out for it.

113thornton37814
Abr 1, 7:40 pm

>110 Whisper1: I need to remember that one in case my great nephews lose another dog anytime soon.

114Whisper1
Abr 2, 6:14 pm

Thanks to all who wrote messages recently. I am home from the hospital wherin I went Saturday because wanted to beat pnemonia. I have a wicked resiratoryi nfection...sicker than I thought I could be.

Thank God for granddaughter and local pharmacy.

I'm reading when not sleeping. Will post when i feel better.

115klobrien2
Abr 2, 7:36 pm

>114 Whisper1: Oh, my goodness! How horrible! Sending you so many good wishes and prayers for feeling better!

Karen O

116quondame
Abr 2, 7:59 pm

I'm so sorry about another hospital visit and the pneumonia, and hope you will recover quickly.

117mdoris
Abr 2, 10:08 pm

Linda, that is not good news at all, I am sorry that you have had another hospital stay. Sure hope you can get better very soon.

118atozgrl
Abr 2, 11:26 pm

>114 Whisper1: I am so sorry to hear that your respiratory infection was so bad and you had to go back to the hospital. Sending healing vibes your way, as well as lots of ((((hugs)))). I'll remember you in my prayers.

119fuzzi
Abr 3, 7:25 am

You're in my prayers, Linda. Keep in touch.

120jessibud2
Abr 3, 8:15 am

Oh Linda. Not again! I hope they were able to give you something to break the cycle of infections, illness, pain. I bet it's good to be home in your own bed, though! {{hugs}}

121figsfromthistle
Abr 3, 10:22 am

Dropping in to say hello!

I hope you are feeling a bit better.

122Whisper1
Abr 3, 10:31 am

Thanks to all for your visits to my thread. I hope to post a revew a day until i am caught up with loggin what I've read while ill.

Two days ago, I read Mrs. Roosevelt's confidante by Sara Elia MacNeal.

123BLBera
Abr 3, 10:35 am

Scout loves Honey, Honey, Lion, Linda. We always had a lot of fun reading this one.

124alcottacre
Abr 3, 10:40 am

>108 Whisper1: Well, my local library has Markle's Animals Robert Scott Saw and Animals Christopher Columbus Saw but not that one. Rats.

>114 Whisper1: Feel better soon, lovey. I am glad Kayla is there with you.

125Whisper1
Editado: Abr 5, 2:30 am

BOOK#ONE FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL 2024


Mrs. Roosevelts Confidante by Susan Elia MacNeal

This new to me series is set amid the backdrop of British Prime Minister Winston Churchill's visit to the United States. While this is a fictional book, many of the details are very researched and this reminds those living in the US at the time, that our experience before deciding to enter the War and assist Europe, was so very different than what those countries were facing.

The setting is December 1941 soon after the attack on United States Pearl Harbor. Using a ficticous character named Maggie Hope, who is an ace investigator/private detective who travels to the White House with Churchill's assistants who are helping negotiate the United States entry into World War II.

Previously an isolationist, when Pearl Harbor is bombed, killing so many unsuspecting innocents, it is obvious that the United States can no longer stick it's head in the sand and must rally round Churchill. Both eloquent speakers and hard-working, intelligent leaders, when the two come together, a strong bond results. It is obvious the author did a lot of research, and notes that she watched the Ken Burns series of United States history as a springboard.

When Maggie Hope learns that there is a plot to defame Eleanor Roosevelt after her secretary is murdered, she chooses to bring this to light with Mrs. Roosevelt. While the situation did not occur, the author uses this character to allow the reader access to the life and intelligence of Eleanor who is portrayed lovingly and quite accurately.

The portrayal of Winston Churchill was fascinating and the details of Hitler's sweep through the European countries, leaving death and destruction in his path, confirms that those previously reluctant to enter the war, are now convinced of the enevitability of necessity.

The backdrop of Christmas at the White House and Churchill and Roosevelt stratigized how to defeat Hitler was a delighted addition.

I liked this book so much that I purchased most of the series.

Highly Recommended!!

126m.belljackson
Abr 3, 12:00 pm

>125 Whisper1: Linda - 5 Star recommendation for THE GATHERING STORM by Winston Churchill which delivers a non-fiction companion to MRS. ROOSEVELT'S CONFIDANTE.

127streamsong
Abr 3, 1:17 pm

Oh so sorry that you were ill enough to go to the hospital and still feeling unwell.

That is an amazing review that you wrote given your circumstamces! Thank you! I hope you enjoy the rest of the series as much as the first one.

128foggidawn
Abr 3, 1:21 pm

>125 Whisper1: I'm sorry to hear that you've been ill, but glad you found a book to enjoy even so.

129SirThomas
Abr 4, 2:08 am

All the best for your recovery, Linda!

130FAMeulstee
Abr 4, 7:18 am

Sorry to read the pneumonia infection got so bad, Linda.
I hope you recover soon.
And (((hugs)))

131thornton37814
Abr 4, 5:41 pm

I'm sorry to hear your infection put you in the hospital. Praying you have a speedy recovery.

>125 Whisper1: I've seen that book and wondered if it lives up to its hype. Sounds like it does.

132Whisper1
Editado: Abr 9, 12:01 am

BOOK #TWO READ IN MONTH OF APRIL 2024


I Didn't Do It by Patricia MacLachlan and Emily MacLachlan Charest with illustrations of Katy Schneider

I very much enjoyed the creativity of this book. Each puppy had an original behavior matching personality. The style of reading excellently follows the dog as he/she communicates what he likes -- a warm blanket, a winter fire, balls, balloons and an orange hidden somewhere.

There is a lot of humor and while reading, I couldn't help but smile or laugh out loud. The puppy denies pulling stuffing out of a slipper, burying the bone of another dog, eating the cat's food, pulling a warm sweater from the bed and rolling with it on the ground.

I sensed the authors had fun writing this book. It's a keeper, as most of MacLachlan's books.

Recommended.

133klobrien2
Abr 6, 11:18 am

>132 Whisper1: You got me, for sure, with I Didn’t Do It. I’m off to find it now.

Hope you’re feeling better!

Karen O

134Whisper1
Abr 6, 5:44 pm

Thanks Karen, as with most books written by Patricia MacLachlan, I enjoy the story and the way in which the author has of pulling the reading into a wonderful tale well work reading.

135Whisper1
Editado: Abr 8, 11:54 pm

BOOK #3 READ IN APRIL OF 2024


Made of Stars by Kelley York

Hunter Jackson and his half sister Ashlin spend the winter with their father. One day, by chance when walking through the woods, they come upon a boy their age who seems to enjoy finding things in the creek. Over the years, they become friends, and think of Chance when not with him.

Chance weaves a tale of living in a large home and having perfect parents. All too soon, Ashlin and Hunter discover that Chance is lying. It appears Chance likes to weave a web of exageration, still, they enjoy him and he is a constant at their father's house.

They learn that Chance does not live in a nice neighborhood, and they learnof the many lies he told them.

A story of sexual awakening and series friendship, this is a well-written story. When it is discovered that Chance's father is not the person portrayed by Chance, the plot thickens.

While not stellar, it is worth reading.

136Whisper1
Abr 6, 5:55 pm

>133 klobrien2: Thanks Karen, I'm gradually feeling better as I learn that my 71 year-old body does not heal as rapidly as when I was younger. Yesterdayand today were days when I was able to accomplish some things around the house. Soon, I'll get in PJs and read another installment of the excellent series written by Susan Elia MacNeal.

It was a damp, overcast day. I stayed inside and rested. This is another instance when I am glad I enjoy reading. I appreciate your visits.

137atozgrl
Abr 6, 10:27 pm

>136 Whisper1: Hi Linda, I'm glad to hear you are feeling better! Are >132 Whisper1: and >135 Whisper1: supposed to be Read in April?

138Whisper1
Abr 6, 10:32 pm

<137 Hi Irene.. Yes, they should be noted as April. My mind is so darn foggy from all the medications. I appeciate your attention to detail I went back and saw huge spelling errors in one or more reviews. Yikes. I fixed them. I hope I got all the errors. Lordy, but I need to get better.

139atozgrl
Abr 6, 10:36 pm

>138 Whisper1: No problems! I just wanted to be sure. But you shouldn't be so hard on yourself. Date errors, spelling errors, it's no big deal--with everything you've been through and the medication, you shouldn't put yourself down. We all do the same thing. Just rest and take care of yourself!

140Whisper1
Abr 6, 10:39 pm

Thanks for the lovely person you are Irene. I spent 36 years in academia overseeing student publications. I still hold myself to high standards, but you are right. I need to chill a bit. I really am weary of this congestion and nagging cough that does not go away.

I hope you are resting and reading and having a good weekend.

141thornton37814
Abr 7, 12:37 pm

We all have times when we are not ourselves. I have some things that I like to sit on overnight before I submit so that I can edit them myself with fresh eyes. I'm not saying I always find everything then. We all have good and bad days, but I catch 99.9% of my own errors by doing that. Unfortunately LT does not lend itself well to that sort of thing, so I find myself catching something later--usually something that autocorrect messed up or a place where my brain jumped ahead of my typing.

142Berly
Abr 8, 7:46 pm

Hi Linda--I am so sorry you wound up with pneumonia and in the hospital!! I wound up in the ER last week, but it was only for a few hours and then I got antibiotic #3. I am thinking we are fighting the same stubborn bug!! Just finished my meds and crossing my fingers that the third time is the charm and I am DONE. Be well my friend. Hugs.

143Whisper1
Abr 9, 3:33 am

>141 thornton37814: Hi Lori. Thanks for stopping by.
>142 Berly: Kim, Oh no! A trip to the ER. Let's hope antibiotic #3 works..

144Whisper1
Editado: Abr 11, 2:29 am

Here are books read since book #3. Normally, I would place images within the message, for now, I'm going to be brief:

BOOK #4 READ IN MONTH OF APRIL 2024

The Ugly Duckling Hans Christian Anderson and told and illuystrated by Jerry Pinkney


This is a beautiful story by Hans Christian Andersen. An egg is found in the nest amid the others. This one is quite different than the others. When hatched it is quite strange. Away from the others he is ostracized. Diving into the deep, freezing cold, alone and freezing, caught in the ice death seems near. But even though he did not have enough to eat, slowly the earth became more soft and tender. In front of him were a flock of birds, very much like him, ever so slowly, he gained strength and began to stretch himself down into the water he began to fly, and those who saw him believed he was the most beautiful of all.

145Whisper1
Abr 9, 3:56 am

BOOK #5 READ IN THEMONTH OF APRIL 2024


Life in the Boreal Forest written by Brenda Z. Guiberson illustrations by Gennady Spirin

I've read most of the books illustrated by the incredibly talented Russian-born illustrator Gennady Spirin. He remains at the top of the list for an artist whose talents are lush and incredibly beautifully detailed.

As the title notes, this is a book which focuses on the animals of the great northern forest, home to a unique ecosystem. Spirin captures the life of animals and the lush plants therein.

And, as the author notes, each year more and more encroachment occurs and there is a real threat to the life of all therein.

146Whisper1
Editado: Abr 9, 4:01 am

BOOK #6 READ IN THE MONTH OF APRIL 2024


I Am Enough by Grace Byers

This beautiful book reminds each and every one of us that difference is best, and we are all unique in a very special way -- and, that is enough...more than enough!

147thornton37814
Abr 10, 8:02 am

>144 Whisper1: I'm sure the illustrations are wonderful on that one! That's one of the better Anderson tales out there.

148curioussquared
Abr 10, 5:07 pm

Hi Linda! Sorry to hear you have been unwell, and I hope you are well on your way to feeling better now.

149laytonwoman3rd
Abr 10, 9:29 pm

It seems that you found some good books to help you through your bout with this infection. Life in the Boreal Forest looks especially intriguing. You're wise to go slowly, and not ask too much of yourself while you get your strength back. A lingering cough takes so much out of you.

150Berly
Abr 10, 10:04 pm

Dropping in to check and see how you are doing. Hope things are improving.

151Whisper1
Abr 11, 2:35 am

>147 thornton37814: Hi Lori, Jerry Pinkney is a well-known artist/illustrator. I agree that The Ugly duckling is one of the favoriet Hans Christian Anderson tales.

>148 curioussquared: Thanks for your kind words Natalie. This week is better and I have more energy and less coughing.

>149 laytonwoman3rd: It seemed to take a long time to recover from this infection. But, I'm on the mend. And while I miss reading, I know that I have to conserve energy.

>150 Berly: Dear Friend...I note from your thread that you also have been ill. Drat!!!! I hope you also are feeling better.

152PaulCranswick
Abr 13, 1:11 am

Hope all is well dear lady. Good to see your health is better this week.

153Whisper1
Abr 13, 5:09 pm

>152 PaulCranswick: Thanks Paul. I cannot seem to beat this respiratory illness. I called my doctor's office for a refill on blood pressure medication, hung up and she was on the other end telling me she wanted to see me in an hour because she didn't like the sound of my voice.

It's good to have a doctor that cares. She gave me another (different) round of antibiotics. I have energy today, so I am on the mend.

I hope all is well with you!

154fuzzi
Abr 17, 1:18 pm

>134 Whisper1: my granddaughters got my copy of Nora's Chicks, and I have a feeling they'll love it. They also got a copy of City Cat, though that one was by Kate Banks.
Este tema fue continuado por Thread Number Four for Whisper1 (Linda) 2024.