We had a full house for our discussion of The Shack at Lisa's. Ten of us oohed and ahed over her kitchen renovation and crammed around her table to partake of the FABULOUS food: Karen's "wackitizers" (cucumber rounds topped with cheese; skewers with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves), Susan's tomato/lentil spread and homemade cheese crackers to die for, Mary Beth's spinach and strawberry salad, Lisa's delicious soups (vegetarian Mexican and turkey barley). And the desserts! OMG. Becky made chocolate spice sugar cookies, Darla brought 5 flavors of Ben and Jerry's ice cream, and Nancy Bates won the night with her amazing key lime pie. I am surely missing something. Please forgive me; I have not yet recovered from my sugar coma.
We discussed a bunch of books and their authors (ahem, Darla). Karen was taking notes, so I am depending on her to let us know what these were. We had quite a lively discussion of The Shack, no doubt because no one liked it (even though we all finished it). We could see what the author was trying to do (Sunday school for adults) but they way he did it just made us cringe at times.
Our next book was supposed to be Elie Wiesel's Night, which nearly half of us had already read in prepration, but there was a decided movement that we should read something fun instead. So...
Next Meeting
Where: Nancy B's
When: June 12
What: Bossypants by Tina Fey
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
April 17: The Hunger Games
Six of us met at Leann's to discuss The Hunger Games. I'm pleased to report no one left hungry, and the odds were ever in our favor.
I'm afraid my report must be abbreviated, because I arrived late, and I had already had some dinner. I partook in the lovely green salad (spinach, perhaps?). I believe there was soup, bread, and pasta salad as well. What did not escape my notice was dessert: Lisa made dessert kabobs with angel food cake and fruit. Yummy, visually interesting, and healthy. I couldn't let that stand and brought some cupcakes to share.
They told me they had talked about the book before I got there, and I guess I believe them. We talked some more, and it was as I had guessed - everyone liked the book. We talked mostly about the differences between the book and the movie and succeeded in convincing Darla and Lisa, the only attendees who had not seen it already, that they should.
As we were parting, we realized we had not discussed our next meeting. So here's what we've got from our original schedule:
Next Meeting
Where: ?
When: May 8
What: The Shack by William Paul Young
I'm afraid my report must be abbreviated, because I arrived late, and I had already had some dinner. I partook in the lovely green salad (spinach, perhaps?). I believe there was soup, bread, and pasta salad as well. What did not escape my notice was dessert: Lisa made dessert kabobs with angel food cake and fruit. Yummy, visually interesting, and healthy. I couldn't let that stand and brought some cupcakes to share.
They told me they had talked about the book before I got there, and I guess I believe them. We talked some more, and it was as I had guessed - everyone liked the book. We talked mostly about the differences between the book and the movie and succeeded in convincing Darla and Lisa, the only attendees who had not seen it already, that they should.
As we were parting, we realized we had not discussed our next meeting. So here's what we've got from our original schedule:
Next Meeting
Where: ?
When: May 8
What: The Shack by William Paul Young
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
March 13 - Our Kind of Traitor
Karen hosted 8 of us for our discussion of Out Kind of Traitor by John LeCarre. There were many dishes inspired by the English/Russian characters of the book: Stilton cheeses, pea soup and borscht, "Russian" black bread, trifle. The salad, carrot cake, and coconut pie were also well-appreciated! The champagne was not, only because we never got to it; Newcastle brown ale and copious wine did the trick.
So the food was, as usual, fabulous; the book, alas, was not. It was uniformly disliked! A thriller with no thrills and characters that left us without sympathy for or interest in them. Oh well! It seems most all of us slogged through it to the end.
We discussed at some length our choice for our next meeting: The Count of Monte Cristo. While most of us are interested in pursuing the classics, a book that is over 800 pages abridged gave us pause. Let's face it, it's just not realistic. So we started tossing out other books (as well as discussing the reading of the classics themselves). At some point we diverged and started talking about the Hunger Games movie that is coming out, how we should see it as a group but not everyone had read it, and voila! A solution that most sounded interested in: let's read The Hunger Games for April! It may not be a classic, but sure is a cultural phenomenon. And afterward we can go see the movie.
Next Meeting
Where: Leann's
When: April 10
What: The Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins
So the food was, as usual, fabulous; the book, alas, was not. It was uniformly disliked! A thriller with no thrills and characters that left us without sympathy for or interest in them. Oh well! It seems most all of us slogged through it to the end.
We discussed at some length our choice for our next meeting: The Count of Monte Cristo. While most of us are interested in pursuing the classics, a book that is over 800 pages abridged gave us pause. Let's face it, it's just not realistic. So we started tossing out other books (as well as discussing the reading of the classics themselves). At some point we diverged and started talking about the Hunger Games movie that is coming out, how we should see it as a group but not everyone had read it, and voila! A solution that most sounded interested in: let's read The Hunger Games for April! It may not be a classic, but sure is a cultural phenomenon. And afterward we can go see the movie.
Next Meeting
Where: Leann's
When: April 10
What: The Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
February 21 - In Other Rooms, Other Wonders
Mary Beth hosted a group of nine of us for February meeting to discuss Daniyal Mueenuddin's collection of short stories, In Other Rooms, Other Wonders. Happily, Becky was able to join us. Yay, Becky!
Mary Beth made wonderful stuffed shells (let's hear it for home ec, the source of the recipe!). Nancy B. brought a gorgeous green salad and Lisa made a middle-eastern-inspired orzo salad. Leann's homemade bread rounded out dinner, and we had three sources of dessert: Karen's middle-eastern selection, Darla's cupcakes, and cookies baked by my dear husband. I'm afraid I lost track of the drinks and appetizers and perhaps more, so please forgive me any lacunae.
We had a lively discussion of the book, no doubt because everyone found something lacking in it! (Seems books we dislike generate much more discussion than those we do.) The depiction of life in Pakistan was not a positive one, particularly in the way poor women are treated, so it was a hard read. Heather spent three years in Pakistan as a kid, so she was able to give us a more positive perspective on life there, thank goodness. Also, Karen had gone to hear the author speak at Dartmouth (he's an alum), and she was able to tell us more about him and what he's writing now.
Thanks, Mary Beth, for hosting a fun evening!
Next Meeting
Where: Karen's
When: March 13
What: Our Kind of Traitor by John LeCarre
Mary Beth made wonderful stuffed shells (let's hear it for home ec, the source of the recipe!). Nancy B. brought a gorgeous green salad and Lisa made a middle-eastern-inspired orzo salad. Leann's homemade bread rounded out dinner, and we had three sources of dessert: Karen's middle-eastern selection, Darla's cupcakes, and cookies baked by my dear husband. I'm afraid I lost track of the drinks and appetizers and perhaps more, so please forgive me any lacunae.
We had a lively discussion of the book, no doubt because everyone found something lacking in it! (Seems books we dislike generate much more discussion than those we do.) The depiction of life in Pakistan was not a positive one, particularly in the way poor women are treated, so it was a hard read. Heather spent three years in Pakistan as a kid, so she was able to give us a more positive perspective on life there, thank goodness. Also, Karen had gone to hear the author speak at Dartmouth (he's an alum), and she was able to tell us more about him and what he's writing now.
Thanks, Mary Beth, for hosting a fun evening!
Next Meeting
Where: Karen's
When: March 13
What: Our Kind of Traitor by John LeCarre
Saturday, January 14, 2012
January 10 - A Discovery of Witches
Seven of us gathered at Susan's beautiful home for yummy soups, book talk, and ... kittens! We got to meet Susan's two pint-sized prowlers, who added an extra touch of magic to the evening.
Susan's soups were great. Owing to the fact that I am a bear of little brain and several days have passed, all I can recall is that vegetarian one was a curry soup (which I had and it was fabulous) and the non-veggie soup had kale in it (I hear lots of "mmmm" coming from the folks who had it). I also know we had great appetizers, a delicious home-made couscous salad, and two types of cake for dessert. What's not to like?
The book, for one, although I believe the group was 50-50 on liking vs. not liking so much. It was definitely long ("wordy" was mentioned), having seemingly fallen victim to the state of editing in book publishing these days (i.e., there's not enough of it). Those of us who liked it are really looking forward to book 2 in the trilogy, the rest are off the hook.
There were many other topics and books discussed, including Susan's musing out loud about needing to think of a dance routine to contribute to an upcoming family wedding. Truly a fun evening, thanks Susan!
Next Meeting
Where: Becky's
When: January 14
What: In Other Rooms, Other Wonders by Daniyal Mueenuddin
Susan's soups were great. Owing to the fact that I am a bear of little brain and several days have passed, all I can recall is that vegetarian one was a curry soup (which I had and it was fabulous) and the non-veggie soup had kale in it (I hear lots of "mmmm" coming from the folks who had it). I also know we had great appetizers, a delicious home-made couscous salad, and two types of cake for dessert. What's not to like?
The book, for one, although I believe the group was 50-50 on liking vs. not liking so much. It was definitely long ("wordy" was mentioned), having seemingly fallen victim to the state of editing in book publishing these days (i.e., there's not enough of it). Those of us who liked it are really looking forward to book 2 in the trilogy, the rest are off the hook.
There were many other topics and books discussed, including Susan's musing out loud about needing to think of a dance routine to contribute to an upcoming family wedding. Truly a fun evening, thanks Susan!
Next Meeting
Where: Becky's
When: January 14
What: In Other Rooms, Other Wonders by Daniyal Mueenuddin
Thursday, December 15, 2011
December 13 - The Coffins of Little Hope
Eight of us gathered at my place for cauliflower soup, chocolate chili, white elephant Yankee swap, and oh yes, to talk about a book!
The company was wonderful, the contributions of appetizers and desserts fabulous. The book, well, let's just say you can't win them all; there was little love for The Coffins of Little Hope.
I believe our Yankee swap was a success. People in this group have very nice white elephants hanging around their houses! There was some envy and swapping, I'm happy to report, although no one took the bow and arrow set I opened. Hmm.
Next Meeting
Where: Susan graciously offered to host
When: January 10
What: A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness
Happy holidays and best wishes for the new year!
The company was wonderful, the contributions of appetizers and desserts fabulous. The book, well, let's just say you can't win them all; there was little love for The Coffins of Little Hope.
I believe our Yankee swap was a success. People in this group have very nice white elephants hanging around their houses! There was some envy and swapping, I'm happy to report, although no one took the bow and arrow set I opened. Hmm.
Next Meeting
Where: Susan graciously offered to host
When: January 10
What: A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness
Happy holidays and best wishes for the new year!
Wednesday, November 09, 2011
November 8 - The Little Friend
Six of us gathered as Lisa's to discuss The Little Friend by Donna Tartt. There were deviled eggs, two wonderful soups, warm biscuits, blueberry pie... Absolutely delicious, one and all. We had a good and wide-ranging discussion of the book and it's southern-ness, with a general agreement that it was quite good and proved the adage "you can't judge a book by its cover" (or it's title either, in this case).
Next month - Yankee Swap!! We thought a white elephant Yankee Swap might be just the thing this year. So bring something you already own wrapped and ready to swap.
When: December 13
Where: Nancy's
What: The Coffins of Little Hope by Timothy Schaffert
Next month - Yankee Swap!! We thought a white elephant Yankee Swap might be just the thing this year. So bring something you already own wrapped and ready to swap.
When: December 13
Where: Nancy's
What: The Coffins of Little Hope by Timothy Schaffert
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
October 18 - The Picture of Dorian Gray
Seven of us gathered at Darla's for our rescheduled discussion of Oscar Wilde's The Picture of Dorian Gray. We were greeted at the table by a parade of little reading rubber duckies, favors Lisa found. Thanks, Lisa!
Darla served her famous potato cheese soup and also a new and delicious creation, creamy tortellini soup. (She even provided those attending with copies of the recipes; above and beyond!) The table was rounded out with a lovely fall veggie casserole by Lisa and an antipasto salad by Karen. Dessert was a virtual cornucopia of treats — Susan's apple crisp and vanilla ice cream, Leaan's Boston cream pie, and Becky's fruit were topped off by some great maple cookies that Darla and Lisa baked before the rest of us arrived.
Although we occasionally got distracted, we did discuss the book quite a bit. Susan knew the most about Oscar Wilde and filled us in on the place of the novel, his only one, in his work and life. I, for one, did not know the book had eventually landed him and jail and contributed to his death. Pretty amazing. Oh, and we all hated the character of Lord Henry.
Lisa offered to host our next meeting, which is November 8, to discuss The Little Friend by Donna Tartt. See you then!
Although we occasionally got distracted, we did discuss the book quite a bit. Susan knew the most about Oscar Wilde and filled us in on the place of the novel, his only one, in his work and life. I, for one, did not know the book had eventually landed him and jail and contributed to his death. Pretty amazing. Oh, and we all hated the character of Lord Henry.
Lisa offered to host our next meeting, which is November 8, to discuss The Little Friend by Donna Tartt. See you then!
Friday, September 16, 2011
September 14
We had a large and lively group at Nancy's for our post-summer-vacation meeting. Folks brought lots of delicious appetizers, beverages, and desserts to augment the spinach lasagna. Thanks, everyone!
After a bit of discussion, we actually were able to choose a regular meeting time and books to read until next summer. Way to go, guys!
Our regular meeting time will be the 2nd Tuesday of the month.
Below is a list of dates and books.(Please, if I got something wrong, do let me know. My scribble was hard to read. Also, if we'd like to rearrange some, we can do that.) Darla offered to host for October. All we'll need to decide as we go along is who will host next!
Schedule
October 11: The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde at Darla's
November 8: The Little Friend by Donna Tartt
December 13: The Coffins of Little Hope by Timothy Schaffert
January 10: A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness
February 14: In Other Rooms, Other Wonders by Daniyal Mueenuddin
March 13: Our Kind of Traitor by John LeCarre
April 10: The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
May 8: The Shack by William Paul Young
June 12: Night by Elie Wiesel
And suggested summer reading: The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett
After a bit of discussion, we actually were able to choose a regular meeting time and books to read until next summer. Way to go, guys!
Our regular meeting time will be the 2nd Tuesday of the month.
Below is a list of dates and books.(Please, if I got something wrong, do let me know. My scribble was hard to read. Also, if we'd like to rearrange some, we can do that.) Darla offered to host for October. All we'll need to decide as we go along is who will host next!
Schedule
October 11: The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde at Darla's
November 8: The Little Friend by Donna Tartt
December 13: The Coffins of Little Hope by Timothy Schaffert
January 10: A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness
February 14: In Other Rooms, Other Wonders by Daniyal Mueenuddin
March 13: Our Kind of Traitor by John LeCarre
April 10: The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
May 8: The Shack by William Paul Young
June 12: Night by Elie Wiesel
And suggested summer reading: The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett
Thursday, June 30, 2011
June 27 - Half-Broke Horses
We had a very small gathering at Karen's to discuss Jeanette Walls' Half-Broke Horses. It was salad night: Heather brought a fresh green salad right from her garden, Leann brought a pasta salad, and Karen had a tortalini salad for us, as well as a fabulous fruit tart for dessert. (I managed to drag some brie along, to double up on what Karen already had.)
Everyone seemed to really like the book (that includes folks who read it but didn't make the meeting). We spent a lot of time trying to remember Walls' earlier book, The Glass Castle, and connecting the two, since Half-Broke Horses is a fictionalized memoir of her maternal grandmother. What a remarkable character Lily Casey was!
Next Meeting
Everyone seemed to really like the book (that includes folks who read it but didn't make the meeting). We spent a lot of time trying to remember Walls' earlier book, The Glass Castle, and connecting the two, since Half-Broke Horses is a fictionalized memoir of her maternal grandmother. What a remarkable character Lily Casey was!
Next Meeting
- When and Where: There is no next meeting set. We plan take the summer off and reconnoiter in September. In August, I will send out a message to set up a date and place.
- What: Come prepared to present a book to the group you think we should read. We think it's a good idea to pick books for the next six meetings or so.
- ALSO: How about picking a regular day each month to meet (like the third Tuesday, for instance)? That way people can plan ahead.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
May 24, Revenge of the Radioactive Lady
Seven of us gathered at Leann's for our discussion of The Revenge of the Radioactive Lady. Leann served a delicious risotto that was rounded out by bread, salad, wonderful appetizers, and 2 desserts! Karen made a fabulous lemon torte, and our hostess provided sinful cupcakes. I think we were all stuffed and happy. As usual, please forgive any lapses regarding food on my part. This time I'll blame it on my blood sugar.
The book got mixed reviews. I believe everyone in attendance finished it. I liked Mary Beth's assessment: it was like a bad soap opera; the plot was ridiculous but you wanted to see what happened. Heather read the whole thing while trapped on a plane and really enjoyed the author's use of language and turns of phrase. We wanted to know: what happened to the neighborhood after the son contaminated it with radioactivity??
Next Meeting
When: Monday, June 27
Where: Karen's
What: Half-Broke Horses by Jeannette Walls
The book got mixed reviews. I believe everyone in attendance finished it. I liked Mary Beth's assessment: it was like a bad soap opera; the plot was ridiculous but you wanted to see what happened. Heather read the whole thing while trapped on a plane and really enjoyed the author's use of language and turns of phrase. We wanted to know: what happened to the neighborhood after the son contaminated it with radioactivity??
Next Meeting
When: Monday, June 27
Where: Karen's
What: Half-Broke Horses by Jeannette Walls
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
April 12, Cutting for Stone
Lisa hosted a group of seven for our discussion of Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese. Lisa went all out and made an Ethiopian vegetable soup (which was to die for). Mary Beth brought a fabulous spinach salad, Leann brought her home-made cole slaw, Darla made darling deviled eggs (sorry, couldn't resist the semi-alliteration, but they were good, made with local eggs), Becky brought roasted veggies (mmm), and Heather brought strawberry shortcake makings. Oh, and I brought some French bread and a local maple goat cheese from the Co-op that was a hit. We didn't actually construct shortcakes, because Lisa baked a maple pudding cake that Lisa called a "lush" cake (we had lots of fun with that one). She served it with strawberries, so we took advantage of Heather's contribution in that way.
We were unanimous about the book: everybody loved it. There was some disagreement about whether it was easy or hard to tell who the father was, but that was a minor issue. We all agreed that even though it was a long book, it was a fast read. (Becky said of the length, "I didn't even notice!")
Next Meeting
Where: Leann's
When: Tuesday, May 24
What: The Revenge of the Radioactive Lady by Elizabeth Stuckey-French
NOTE: Four of us own this book already and will be willing to lend it out. Give a shout if you can't find a copy.
Lisa generously supplied links to for the fabulous recipes she made for us:
Maple pudding cake
http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Maple-Pudding-Cake-233996
Berbere (Ethiopian spice mix)
http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Ethiopian-Spice-Mix-Berbere-104015
Ethiopian vegetable stew
http://ethiopianrecipes.net/yetakelt-wet-spicy-mixed-vegetable-stew/
Lisa says about "Niter Kebbeh," one of the stew ingredients, "I substituted 1/4 stick of butter that I cooked down, to separate, like ghee."
We were unanimous about the book: everybody loved it. There was some disagreement about whether it was easy or hard to tell who the father was, but that was a minor issue. We all agreed that even though it was a long book, it was a fast read. (Becky said of the length, "I didn't even notice!")
Next Meeting
Where: Leann's
When: Tuesday, May 24
What: The Revenge of the Radioactive Lady by Elizabeth Stuckey-French
NOTE: Four of us own this book already and will be willing to lend it out. Give a shout if you can't find a copy.
Lisa generously supplied links to for the fabulous recipes she made for us:
Maple pudding cake
http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Maple-Pudding-Cake-233996
Berbere (Ethiopian spice mix)
http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Ethiopian-Spice-Mix-Berbere-104015
Ethiopian vegetable stew
http://ethiopianrecipes.net/yetakelt-wet-spicy-mixed-vegetable-stew/
Lisa says about "Niter Kebbeh," one of the stew ingredients, "I substituted 1/4 stick of butter that I cooked down, to separate, like ghee."
Saturday, February 26, 2011
February 24 - Unbroken
Heather hosted a group of 7 of us for a shark-themed discussion of Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand. Heather had two round tables adjacent to one another like the two rafts in the book, with a mouthful of water and a piece of chocolate at each place and stuffed sharks as decoration. Nice touches!
Heather served ravioli with a delicious yogurt-based sauce, which was complemented by Leann's beautiful green salad and Nancy B.'s yummy roasted veggies. Karen made 1940's gumdrop cookies, and I believe it was Mary Beth who made lemon/fruit squares. I'm sure there was more; please forgive me for what I left out!
Everyone like the book a lot, even Becky, to whom it gave nightmares. We mused about what we would have done (most of us thought we'd have eaten the chocolate too), and guessed we might not have survived it all like Louie did.
Next Meeting
What: Cutting for Stone
Where: Lisa's (as long as she's up to it)
When: Not yet decided - does Tuesday April 12 work?
Heather served ravioli with a delicious yogurt-based sauce, which was complemented by Leann's beautiful green salad and Nancy B.'s yummy roasted veggies. Karen made 1940's gumdrop cookies, and I believe it was Mary Beth who made lemon/fruit squares. I'm sure there was more; please forgive me for what I left out!
Everyone like the book a lot, even Becky, to whom it gave nightmares. We mused about what we would have done (most of us thought we'd have eaten the chocolate too), and guessed we might not have survived it all like Louie did.
Next Meeting
What: Cutting for Stone
Where: Lisa's (as long as she's up to it)
When: Not yet decided - does Tuesday April 12 work?
Friday, January 21, 2011
January 20 - Cleopatra
Seven of us met at Mary Beth's for an evening of Egyptian delights and to discuss the book Cleopatra. This had to be the most thematic book group ever. Thanks to Heather, there were lots of adornments to be had (Mary Beth's combo of a belly dancer's hip scarf with jingling coins and a beaded head dress was my favorite.)
We welcomed new member Nancy Bates, who brought a delicious Tuscan salad. Mary Beth provided potato cheddar soup, and Heather brought happy lamb stew (the lamb had led a happy life in Maine before landing in Heather's freezer). Leann brought rolls, I brought hummus, but Susan's stuffed grape leaves, toasted pita, and herbed feta cheese were amazing. I have to say the happy lamb was delicious too, wonderful spices.
After some preliminary chatting we did talk about Cleopatra just about the whole time. We were aided by the Elizabeth Taylor movie version playing on the TV, thanks to a timely trip to the library by Mary Beth. There were varying reactions to the book, from it being too much a history book to its straying too far from fact. Some of the descriptions were just too good not to read out loud, like that of Marc Antony's legs. (Please someone, remind me of the exact phrase; it was priceless.)
Next Meeting
What: Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand
Where: ??
When: ??
How about we meet Thursday, February 24? (That's 5 weeks.) And we need a hostess.
We welcomed new member Nancy Bates, who brought a delicious Tuscan salad. Mary Beth provided potato cheddar soup, and Heather brought happy lamb stew (the lamb had led a happy life in Maine before landing in Heather's freezer). Leann brought rolls, I brought hummus, but Susan's stuffed grape leaves, toasted pita, and herbed feta cheese were amazing. I have to say the happy lamb was delicious too, wonderful spices.
After some preliminary chatting we did talk about Cleopatra just about the whole time. We were aided by the Elizabeth Taylor movie version playing on the TV, thanks to a timely trip to the library by Mary Beth. There were varying reactions to the book, from it being too much a history book to its straying too far from fact. Some of the descriptions were just too good not to read out loud, like that of Marc Antony's legs. (Please someone, remind me of the exact phrase; it was priceless.)
Next Meeting
What: Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand
Where: ??
When: ??
How about we meet Thursday, February 24? (That's 5 weeks.) And we need a hostess.
Thursday, December 09, 2010
December 8 - The Tower, the Zoo, and the Tortoise
Nancy hosted a happy group of 9 for our (very short) discussion of The Tower, the Zoo, and the Tortoise. We welcomed new member Susan and had a cornucopia of foodstuffs. Mary Beth made a fabulous asparagus salad with feta cheese and mandarin oranges, and Karen supplied us with a Christmas almond cake for dessert (as well as bruchetta as an appetizer). We had cauliflower soup, taco soup, french bread, dinner rolls, fruit salad, Becky's guacamole, Darla's pickled asparagus, Susan's delicious cheeses. Please forgive me for anyone and anything I've left out, it was all great.
The Yankee swap was much anticipated. Try as I might, I couldn't egg people on to grab other's stuff. It's too much fun to open a present, I think, and it was all nice stuff. Plus Lisa drew #1 and picked something she loved, so we all knew it was fruitless to snatch that gift. We decided that next year we should do a white elephant Yankee swap.
Almost everyone had read at least part of the book and at liked it. We appreciated that parts of it are laugh-out-loud funny. Darla said it reminded her of a fairy tale.
We immediately turned to the discussion of other books and other things, including what to read next. Because there was interest in more than one book, we chose for the next 3 meetings!
Next Meeting
Where: Mary Beth's
When: Thursday, January 20
Next Books
January: Cleopatra: A Life by Stacy Schiff
February: Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand
March: Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese
The Yankee swap was much anticipated. Try as I might, I couldn't egg people on to grab other's stuff. It's too much fun to open a present, I think, and it was all nice stuff. Plus Lisa drew #1 and picked something she loved, so we all knew it was fruitless to snatch that gift. We decided that next year we should do a white elephant Yankee swap.
Almost everyone had read at least part of the book and at liked it. We appreciated that parts of it are laugh-out-loud funny. Darla said it reminded her of a fairy tale.
We immediately turned to the discussion of other books and other things, including what to read next. Because there was interest in more than one book, we chose for the next 3 meetings!
Next Meeting
Where: Mary Beth's
When: Thursday, January 20
Next Books
January: Cleopatra: A Life by Stacy Schiff
February: Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand
March: Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese
Friday, November 19, 2010
October 26 - So Cold the River
Four of us gathered at Becky's to discuss our creepy October read, So Cold the River by Michael Koryta. Becky had wonderful clam chowder and winter squash soup, which was rounded off with bread and salad and was topped off with cookies. Thanks, Darla, for the home-made ginger snaps! It was all yummy.
Lisa sent her book report through Darla. Everyone said they liked it and thought it suitably spooky for Halloween, the writing reminiscent of Stephen King. I had some gripes with the book (where was the editor?), which brought out a few other dislikes as well (the main character was whiny and stupid, and why all the fuss about the train early on?).
We discussed lots of other stuff and other books, of course. I'm afraid I didn't write them down, so if you've got a recommendation, do chime in. I finished one book I talked about last time, Room by Emma Donoghue, and LOVED it. There was some interest in reading it for a Book Soup meeting, but given its premise, we decided it was more suited to bleak winter than the holidays.
Speaking of which, our next meeting will be out holiday meeting, and we think we've identified a nice read for it. We didn't discuss doing a Yankee Swap, but it is a Book Soup holiday tradition, so I will assume we will do it unless the populace says no.
Next Meeting
When: Wednesday, December 8 (alternate: Thursday, December 9)
Where: Nancy's, of course!
What: The Tower, the Zoo, and the Tortoise by Julia Stuart
Also: Please bring a wrapped gift worth no more than $10 suitable for swapping
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
September 28 - The Owl Killers
Six of us met at Darla's for our discussion of The Owl Killers by Karen Maitland. Darla was well-prepared with yummy crock-pot offerings to warm us (a potato soup and a chicken-kielbasa-sauerkraut soup). Karen supplied a beautiful spinach salad, Becky brought a delicious egg dish, I went all-out with rolls, and Lisa and Leann rounded off the meal with desserts (cupcakes and cookies, respectively). Thanks, all!
We had an interesting discussion even though only two of us had finished the book. Set in the Middle Ages and featuring a community of women determined to make it on their own, we talked about the limits of what women could accomplish at that time. The book also had lots of scary elements, which made it appropriate for this time of year.
Speaking of scary, we chose a ghost story for our October meeting. Read on for details.
Next Meeting
Where: Becky's
When: Tuesday, October 26
What: So Cold the River by Michael Koryta
We had an interesting discussion even though only two of us had finished the book. Set in the Middle Ages and featuring a community of women determined to make it on their own, we talked about the limits of what women could accomplish at that time. The book also had lots of scary elements, which made it appropriate for this time of year.
Speaking of scary, we chose a ghost story for our October meeting. Read on for details.
Next Meeting
Where: Becky's
When: Tuesday, October 26
What: So Cold the River by Michael Koryta
Friday, August 20, 2010
August 19 - Fingerprints of God
Four of us gathered at Leann's for our -- good! -- discussion of Fingerprints of God by Barbara Bradley Haggerty. What was fascinating to me was that, while everybody found parts of interest, there were varying reactions overall. I found the author's spiritual crisis compelling, but not everybody else did. And of course the discussion segued into all kinds of other things, serious and not-so-serious.
And the food was fabulous, as usual. Leann had mac & cheese, tuna salad, and her "man salad" - a bean salad we ladies found very yummy, so I question the name. We also had two blueberry desserts - a cake from Karen and a tart from Lisa.
Next Meeting
What: The Owl Killers by Karen Maitland
When: Tuesday, September 28
Where: Well...
Darla, you were nominated in abstentia, and Lisa volunteered as back up. However, she's having surgery on the 9th and will be in a cast...
And the food was fabulous, as usual. Leann had mac & cheese, tuna salad, and her "man salad" - a bean salad we ladies found very yummy, so I question the name. We also had two blueberry desserts - a cake from Karen and a tart from Lisa.
Next Meeting
What: The Owl Killers by Karen Maitland
When: Tuesday, September 28
Where: Well...
Darla, you were nominated in abstentia, and Lisa volunteered as back up. However, she's having surgery on the 9th and will be in a cast...
Friday, June 25, 2010
June 24 - Flowers in the Attic
Six of us gathered at Heather's house and petting zoo (two goats, a dog, a cat, two birds, and a beehive) to discuss Flowers in the Attic, a book many had read as teenagers. Heather had great food read for us - aside from cheeses and crackers and fruit, she made bacon-wrapped water chestnuts for appetizers; "butter chick" (two variations on an Indian dish, butter chicken and butter chickpeas) for the main course; and powdered donuts for dessert! (If you've read Flowers in the Attic, you'll know why.) Sushi and salads rounded out the meal, not to mention the white wine sangria. Thanks, Heather!
We had an interesting discussion of the book, which had many creepy aspects, but was a real product of its time. Written in 1979, it took a classical romance novel approach to rape, making it a prelude to love. We all agreed that wouldn't fly any more (thank goodness!).
After lots of laughter and a visit with the goats, we called it a night.
Next Meeting
Where: Leann's
When: Thursday, July 29
What: Fingerprints of God by Barbara Bradley Haggerty
We had an interesting discussion of the book, which had many creepy aspects, but was a real product of its time. Written in 1979, it took a classical romance novel approach to rape, making it a prelude to love. We all agreed that wouldn't fly any more (thank goodness!).
After lots of laughter and a visit with the goats, we called it a night.
Next Meeting
Where: Leann's
When: Thursday, July 29
What: Fingerprints of God by Barbara Bradley Haggerty
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
May 18: The Dream of Perpetual Motion
Five of us gathered at Darla's for our discussion of The Dream of Perpetual Motion by Dexter Palmer. Our menu was Cinco de Mayo-inspired with a touch of Greek thrown in...Lisa's flan was fabulous! (And so were her brownies, not to mention Darla's Margaritas!)
The book was...a challenge. Only our intrepid hostess managed to finish it for the meeting, and those of us still working through it were not universally admiring. It's not bad to have a challenge now and then, we all agreed.
Of course talking about our designated book led to talking about all things bookish, in particular Darla's fondness for book blogs, some of which she showed to us on her laptop.
Below are lists that Karen, who was our scribe for the evening, created from our discussion and show-and-tell:
Websites:
She's Too Fond of Books...And it has addled her brain
http://www.sheistoofondofbooks.com/
Jen's Book Thoughts
http://jensbookthoughts.blogspot.com/
Hot Guys Reading Books
http://hotguysreadingbooks.tumblr.com/
Reading on the Subway
http://readingonthesubway.net/
Authors/Books:
Louise Penny
http://www.louisepenny.com/
Kate Shugak mystery series by Dana Stabenow
http://www.stabenow.com/
Jo Nesbo
http://www.jonesbo.com/
Future book group field trip:
The world famous booktown Hay-on-Wye
http://www.hay-on-wye.co.uk/
Next Meeting:
Where: Heather's house
When: TBD
What: Fingerprints of God: In Search of the Science of Spirituality by Barbara Bradley Hagerty
http://barbarabradleyhagerty.com
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
April 13 - The Help
Mary Beth hosted seven of us for a for our discussion of The Help. It was a lovely gathering with a potato soup and a chili provided by Mary Beth, both of which were delicious. Lisa's artichoke dip appetizer was a big hit, and Darla graced us with a carrot cake from King Arthur flour for dessert.
Everyone loved the book, and we had an interesting discussion about what it means to have maids raising children and taking care of other intimate details of life, among other many, many of things -- a few book related, most not (and some of which will remain unmentioned, Heather).
Next Meeting
When: Tuesday, May 18
Where: Darla's
What: The Dream of Perpetual Motion
by Dexter Palmer
by Dexter PalmerThursday, March 04, 2010
March 3 - A Reliable Wife
A group of seven gathered at Karen's for our discussion of A Reliable Wife. Lisa made a yummy multi-layer dip and Mary Beth brought hummus for appetizers. Karen served two delicious soups, minestrone and split pea and [a root-vegetable-whose-name-escapes-me], rounded out by bread from Heather and a salad from me. For dessert, Becky made apple dumpling thingies for dessert that were the bomb.
Everyone liked the book except for our hostess, who hated it! Having diverse opinions always makes the discussion more interesting, so thanks, Karen! Naturally the conversation segued to other books, and Karen in particular recommended a book I didn't write down. Karen, could you please remind us? There were also many remembrances of Flowers in the Attic, a scary book a bunch of us had read as teenagers (your humble scribe not among them).
Thanks to Karen's poodle puppy Maggie, whom we were so happy to meet, much talk centered around animals. Aside from owning dogs, cats, parakeets, and goats (at the moment; there have been more) Heather is a dog whisperer! Who knew! We also talked about having a book group meeting at Heather's that we started calling "boob group." (You had be there, but it was hilarious!)
NEXT MEETING
Where: Mary Beth's
What: The Help by Kathryn Stockett
When: April 13 or 20 - please let your preference be known
Everyone liked the book except for our hostess, who hated it! Having diverse opinions always makes the discussion more interesting, so thanks, Karen! Naturally the conversation segued to other books, and Karen in particular recommended a book I didn't write down. Karen, could you please remind us? There were also many remembrances of Flowers in the Attic, a scary book a bunch of us had read as teenagers (your humble scribe not among them).
Thanks to Karen's poodle puppy Maggie, whom we were so happy to meet, much talk centered around animals. Aside from owning dogs, cats, parakeets, and goats (at the moment; there have been more) Heather is a dog whisperer! Who knew! We also talked about having a book group meeting at Heather's that we started calling "boob group." (You had be there, but it was hilarious!)
NEXT MEETING
Where: Mary Beth's
What: The Help by Kathryn Stockett
When: April 13 or 20 - please let your preference be known
Friday, January 22, 2010
January 21 - Pope Jone
Good morning everyone,
Last night six of us got together at my house to discuss Pope Joan. We all enjoyed it, but felt that it diverged a bit too much with the romance piece, and that some of the situations would have been easier to swallow if there weren't so many convenient deaths. In general though, we appreciated learnng about the life of women in the Middle Ages, and felt it was a good read.
In between munching on Karen's excellet tazaki dip from Taste Spotting , drinking mimosas and enjoying a lentil stew with great bread from Leann, and salad from Nancy, we actually came up with an interesting list of books to read.
Lisa and Darla recommended The Help
Nancy recommended A Reliable Wife
Karen recommended Leaving the Saints
For dessert we had Chocolate Chip cookies made by Dan LaRoche, and two cakes made by Lisa. The Maple Pear Upside Down Cake was a big hit, and the Upside Down Apple Gingerbread was also enjoyed.
Lisa told everyone about the mystery series Wallender, based on the Henning Mankell mysteries, and Darla and Lisa urged everyone to read the Louise Penny mysteries and the Scotland St. series by Alexander McCall Smith.
We decided to read Reliable Wife for February’s meeting and The Help for March.
Our next meeting will be at Karen’s on Tuesday the 16th at 6:30.
--Lisa
P. S. Does anyone want to order Reliable Wife via the Norwich Bookstore for the book group discount? If so, please chime in ASAP.
Sunday, December 06, 2009
Dec. 3, Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life
We had a small gathering at Nancy's to talk about Amy Krouse Rosenthal's Encyclopedia. Everybody who read it liked or loved it, but it didn't spark much discussion. We had a civilized Yankee swap and a lovely time. Thank you to all for your contributions, especially Karen, who sent a beautiful spinach salad even though she was sick.
Next Meeting
Where: Lisa's
When: January 21
What: Pope Joan by Donna Woolfolk Cross
Next Meeting
Where: Lisa's
When: January 21
What: Pope Joan by Donna Woolfolk Cross
Thursday, October 22, 2009
October 22, Her Fearful Symmetry
Leann hosted a spooky and delightful meeting with six of us present. She had many tasteful Halloween decorations about and served two great entrees for us, a baked veggie dish and a quiche. Becky supplied some marinated steak that was scrumptious, and Karen's antipasto salad was a nice complement. We had themed dessert -- cookies, cupcakes, and, most notably, Lisa's monster eyeball treats (peanut butter balls dipped 3/4 in chocolate with an M&M's for a pupil -- scary and delicious!).
We had a good discussion of Audrey Niffenegger's Her Fearful Symmetry. Everyone who read it liked it, although we had varying takes on Elspeth's motives. We all loved the descriptions of Highgate Cemetary.
We discussed many other books as well. I'm currently reading The Ghost in Love by Jonathan Carroll. It's one of the oddest books I've ever read but it's also really interesting and very cool.
Lisa talked about Strength in What Remains by Tracy Kidder, which said is an excellent but difficult true story of a refugee from Berundi.
We also talked about the memoir of a girl growing up in Iran, Persepolis, which is in graphic novel form and was also made into a movie.
I'm sure there was more but that's all I can remember! Those with pen and paper, feel free to chime in.
Next Meeting
Due to the fact that in a month it will be Thanksgiving, we decided to make our next meeting our holiday gathering.We didn't discuss doing a Yankee Swap this year -- are people interested?
Where: Nancy's
When: December 3rd
What: Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life by Amy Krouse Rosenthal (reputed to be both light and good)
We had a good discussion of Audrey Niffenegger's Her Fearful Symmetry. Everyone who read it liked it, although we had varying takes on Elspeth's motives. We all loved the descriptions of Highgate Cemetary.
We discussed many other books as well. I'm currently reading The Ghost in Love by Jonathan Carroll. It's one of the oddest books I've ever read but it's also really interesting and very cool.
Lisa talked about Strength in What Remains by Tracy Kidder, which said is an excellent but difficult true story of a refugee from Berundi.
We also talked about the memoir of a girl growing up in Iran, Persepolis, which is in graphic novel form and was also made into a movie.
I'm sure there was more but that's all I can remember! Those with pen and paper, feel free to chime in.
Next Meeting
Due to the fact that in a month it will be Thanksgiving, we decided to make our next meeting our holiday gathering.We didn't discuss doing a Yankee Swap this year -- are people interested?
Where: Nancy's
When: December 3rd
What: Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life by Amy Krouse Rosenthal (reputed to be both light and good)
Thursday, September 24, 2009
September 22 - The Angel's Game
Karen hosted a delightful Spanish-themed gathering for us to discuss The Angel's Game
by Carlos Ruiz Zafon (author of Shadow of the Wind). Consensus: Shadow of the Wind was better. Oh well!
The food and the company were delightful, however. Lisa (whom we missed) sent a long yummy tapas. Karen had the best sangria ever (thanks to a recipe from her good friend Martha). She also made a very nice soup, we had salads and manchego cheese, and a giant, smiling whoopee pie for dessert.
Then, to top it all off, there were crafts! Darla taught us how to make origami bookmarks. (Maybe she'll send the link where she got the directions if we ask her nicely.) I can't say I was successful, but everyone else was and there were extras so I didn't go home empty handed.
NEXT MEETING
When: Thursday, October 22
Where: Leann's
What: A HALLOWEEN themed meeting where we will discuss Her Fearful Symmetry but Audrey Niffenger (author of The Time Traveler's Wife).
Please note! The book is being published on September 29. I'll have a review for you all before then, and I hear its to be reviewed in the New York Times this weekend.
by Carlos Ruiz Zafon (author of Shadow of the Wind). Consensus: Shadow of the Wind was better. Oh well!The food and the company were delightful, however. Lisa (whom we missed) sent a long yummy tapas. Karen had the best sangria ever (thanks to a recipe from her good friend Martha). She also made a very nice soup, we had salads and manchego cheese, and a giant, smiling whoopee pie for dessert.
Then, to top it all off, there were crafts! Darla taught us how to make origami bookmarks. (Maybe she'll send the link where she got the directions if we ask her nicely.) I can't say I was successful, but everyone else was and there were extras so I didn't go home empty handed.
NEXT MEETING
When: Thursday, October 22
Where: Leann's
What: A HALLOWEEN themed meeting where we will discuss Her Fearful Symmetry but Audrey Niffenger (author of The Time Traveler's Wife).
Please note! The book is being published on September 29. I'll have a review for you all before then, and I hear its to be reviewed in the New York Times this weekend.
Friday, August 14, 2009
August 4, Border Songs
I counted 8 of us at Maureen's for our discussion of Border Songs (which everyone liked! Yay!). Thanks, Maureen, for not one, but two, yummy main dishes and for helping Leann out with the salad. ;-)
For those of you who weren't there, we had THREE desserts, and we were in heaven. Thanks to our dessert makers, Karen (who has already posted her recipe, thanks) and Lisa, who mad a delicious fruit trifle and chocolate pudding brownies, or cake, whatever it was, it was fabulous. (It had a funny name, too, that I don't remember -- chocolate ooze or something.)
NEXT MEETING
Where: Karen's
When: Sept. 22
What: The Angel's Game by Carlos Ruis Zafon (Amazon link: http://www.amazon.com/Angels-Game-Carlos-Ruiz-Zafon/dp/0385528701)
For those of you who weren't there, we had THREE desserts, and we were in heaven. Thanks to our dessert makers, Karen (who has already posted her recipe, thanks) and Lisa, who mad a delicious fruit trifle and chocolate pudding brownies, or cake, whatever it was, it was fabulous. (It had a funny name, too, that I don't remember -- chocolate ooze or something.)
NEXT MEETING
Where: Karen's
When: Sept. 22
What: The Angel's Game by Carlos Ruis Zafon (Amazon link: http://www.amazon.com/Angels-Game-Carlos-Ruiz-Zafon/dp/0385528701)
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
June 23, Angle of Repose
Becky hosted a group of 8 for our discussion of Angle of Repose, by Wallace Stegner. About half of us read the book (I'm afraid I wasn't among them), and those folks had an interesting discussion. They also uniformly liked it (not equally, but let's not quibble; it did win the Pulitzer Prize, after all).
Becky made a yummy spring pea soup, and we had a couple of salads to go with. Lisa's artichoke dip held us over as we had our wine slushies (a very yummy frozen wine concoction of Becky's). And we had two cakes for dessert! A King Arthur cake and a Carvel ice cream cake, in celebration of Lisa's birthday just past.
Next Meeting
Where: Maureen's
When: Tuesday, August 4
What:Border Songs by Jim Lynch <http://www.amazon.com/Border-Songs-Jim-Lynch/dp/030727117X>
Becky made a yummy spring pea soup, and we had a couple of salads to go with. Lisa's artichoke dip held us over as we had our wine slushies (a very yummy frozen wine concoction of Becky's). And we had two cakes for dessert! A King Arthur cake and a Carvel ice cream cake, in celebration of Lisa's birthday just past.
Next Meeting
Where: Maureen's
When: Tuesday, August 4
What:Border Songs by Jim Lynch <http://www.amazon.com/Border-Songs-Jim-Lynch/dp/030727117X>
Thursday, May 07, 2009
Cinco de Mayo - Leave Me Alone, I'm Reading
Darla hosted a group of nine for a delicious Cinco de Mayo book group. She started us off with lovely soup, we had great salads from Leann and Agnes, Becky made a wonderful casserole, and we had two great desserts from Karen and Lisa.
I think about half of us had read the book Leave Me Alone I'm Reading by Maureen Corrigan. I think we all really enjoyed it, and we had a bit of a debate over Corrigan's feminism. Very interesting.
Per usual, we talked about many other books. Here are the ones I was able to scribble down:
Where: Becky's
What: Angle of Repose by Wallace Stegner <http://www.amazon.com/Angle-Repose-Penguin-Twentieth-Century-Classics/dp/0141185473/>
I think about half of us had read the book Leave Me Alone I'm Reading by Maureen Corrigan. I think we all really enjoyed it, and we had a bit of a debate over Corrigan's feminism. Very interesting.
Per usual, we talked about many other books. Here are the ones I was able to scribble down:
- What Happened to Anna K by Irina Reyn
- Border Songs by Jim Lynch (coming out June 16)
- Umbrella Man by Roald Dahl
- Death Comes for the Archbishop by Willa Cather
Where: Becky's
What: Angle of Repose by Wallace Stegner <http://www.amazon.com/Angle-Repose-Penguin-Twentieth-Century-Classics/dp/0141185473/>
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
April 7, Friday Night Lights
Lisa hosted a tailgating session of Book Soup -- replete with beer, nachos, and a football cake -- attended by 6 members. Much discussion about the book Friday Night Lights took place (!). Although it was considered well-written, most of us could have skipped the descriptions of the football games (your humble reporter excepted). Everyone was pretty much appalled at the culture of football portrayed, which led to a lot of thoughts being shared about our experiences in school. Not only were stories shared, so were pictures! Leann and Darla brought in high school yearbooks. Darla had the best show-and-tell, including buttons and other memorabilia, and a photo album of her growing up (garnered from her mother). A good time was had by all, I dare say.
Next Meeting
Where: Darla's
When: May 5 (Cinco de Mayo!)
What: Leave Me Alone I'm Reading by Maureen Corrigan
Next Meeting
Where: Darla's
When: May 5 (Cinco de Mayo!)
What: Leave Me Alone I'm Reading by Maureen Corrigan
Thursday, February 26, 2009
February 24, The Little Giant of Aberdeen County
Seven of us gathered at Leann's for delicious "Christmas" casserole, mac & cheese, chips & dips, and ginger bread! Oh, and to talk about The Little Giant of Aberdeen County. (We actually discussed the book through the whole main course, we are happy to report.) Reactions were mixed; I think three of us loved it, three of us hated it, and one was in between. C'est la vie! It was a good discussion.
Next Meeting
When: Tuesday, April 7
Where: Lisa's
What: Friday Night Lights by H. G. Bissinger <http://www.amazon.com/Friday-Night-Lights-Town-Dream/dp/0306809907>
Next Meeting
When: Tuesday, April 7
Where: Lisa's
What: Friday Night Lights by H. G. Bissinger <http://www.amazon.com/Friday-Night-Lights-Town-Dream/dp/0306809907>
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
January 28, 2009 - The Story of Edgar Sawtelle
I pinch-hit for Karen, who had been sick, to host a nice group of 8 for our discussion of Edgar Sawtelle. Reaction was mixed, but we all liked the dogs. It was the rest of the story that was the problem. Thanks for the salads, bread, beverages, and that fabulous cake from King Arthur that Darla brought! As always, we ate well and talked about everything. We were sorry Lisa, having been felled by the dreaded flu, couldn't make it either.
Next Meeting
When: Tuesday, February 24 (Fat Tuesday!), 6:30 p.m.
Where: Leann's
What: The Little Giant of Aberdeen County by Tiffany Baker
Next Meeting
When: Tuesday, February 24 (Fat Tuesday!), 6:30 p.m.
Where: Leann's
What: The Little Giant of Aberdeen County by Tiffany Baker
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
December 2nd
Eight of us gathered at Nancy's for a seasonally festive time of eating, exchanging cookies, and Yankee swapping -- oh and talking about the books we read too! (I think most of us had read at least one of the books...) Consensus was Astrid & Veronika was fabulous and interesting. Those who read the Mallory book loved it too.
The bag Karen made using her scraps of book fabric was definitely the coveted gift of the evening, but since Darla picked it and was in the prime position of #1, we all knew it was hopeless to swap with her. Lisa's gift of fabulous dishes snapped up that Mesa going-out-of-business sale was a close second. It was fun, but we're a tame bunch when it comes to Yankee swaps.
Next Meeting
Where: Karen's
When: Tuesday, January 27, 6:30 p.m.
What: The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski
The bag Karen made using her scraps of book fabric was definitely the coveted gift of the evening, but since Darla picked it and was in the prime position of #1, we all knew it was hopeless to swap with her. Lisa's gift of fabulous dishes snapped up that Mesa going-out-of-business sale was a close second. It was fun, but we're a tame bunch when it comes to Yankee swaps.
Next Meeting
Where: Karen's
When: Tuesday, January 27, 6:30 p.m.
What: The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski
Sunday, October 19, 2008
October 17 - The Likeness
Seven of us gathered to marvel at Becky's new condo (lovely, with a wall of windows) and discuss The Likeness by Tana French (among other things, of course). Becky made a delicious soup and apple crisp, with salads and various appetizers (plus plenty of wine) supplied by the rest of us rounding out the meal.
Everyone loved The Likeness, I'm happy to report! Seems many had read its predecessor, In the Woods, which is also highly recommended. (I was having such fun chatting I don't have much else to add, but please feel free to chip in.)
Next Meeting
When: Tuesday, December 2
Where: Nancy's
What: Astrid and Veronika by Linda Olsson AND Mallory's Oracle by Carol O'Connell
What else: Annual Yankee Swap and NEW THIS YEAR, a cookie exchange!
For the Yankee Swap, bring a wrapped gift worth $10 or less ( or make something, we're easy). For the cookie exchange, bring 3 dozen cookies of one type.
Please don't worry if this sounds like a lot! Read one book, don't bake...whatever. We just want you to come. :-)
Everyone loved The Likeness, I'm happy to report! Seems many had read its predecessor, In the Woods, which is also highly recommended. (I was having such fun chatting I don't have much else to add, but please feel free to chip in.)
Next Meeting
When: Tuesday, December 2
Where: Nancy's
What: Astrid and Veronika by Linda Olsson AND Mallory's Oracle by Carol O'Connell
What else: Annual Yankee Swap and NEW THIS YEAR, a cookie exchange!
For the Yankee Swap, bring a wrapped gift worth $10 or less ( or make something, we're easy). For the cookie exchange, bring 3 dozen cookies of one type.
Please don't worry if this sounds like a lot! Read one book, don't bake...whatever. We just want you to come. :-)
Friday, September 05, 2008
September 3 - Time Traveler's Wife and Big Russ & Me
A small group gathered at Darla's to discuss The Time Traveler's Wife and Big Russ & Me. Most of us didn't make it through the latter, so we mainly talked about the former, which we all seemed to like, some confusion and complaints about structure notwithstanding. (The author's device of stating the age of the protagonist at the beginning of each chapter didn't go over well with everyone.) We also did our usual "here's a book I liked" talk, with many pens flying to write down titles.
Darla served us two delicious soups, the recipes for which she promised to share: Mexican tortellini and potato cheddar. Jean brought a yummy veggie salad, and Lisa's trifle for dessert rounded a delightful meal. Thanks to the cooks!
Next Meeting
Where: Becky's
When: Friday, October 17
What: The Likeness by Tana French <http://www.amazon.com/Likeness-Novel-Tana-French/dp/0670018864>
Darla served us two delicious soups, the recipes for which she promised to share: Mexican tortellini and potato cheddar. Jean brought a yummy veggie salad, and Lisa's trifle for dessert rounded a delightful meal. Thanks to the cooks!
Next Meeting
Where: Becky's
When: Friday, October 17
What: The Likeness by Tana French <http://www.amazon.com/Likeness-Novel-Tana-French/dp/0670018864>
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
July 14 - On Gold Mountain
Maureen hosted a small group at her GORGEOUS log home on the top of a hill in Thetford (those of you who couldn't make it really missed something). She had a nice BBQ for our discussion of On Gold Mountain by Lisa See. Everyone who read the book loved this history/memoir of a Chinese-American family. Lisa Ladd also recommends Lisa See's mysteries. (Visit http://www.lisasee.com/Books.htm for titles.)
Next Meeting
Where: Darla, you were volunteered
When: Darla, you pick the date, since it's your house
What: Big Russ & Me by Tim Russert and The Time Traveler's Wife by by Stephanie Niffenegger
Next Meeting
Where: Darla, you were volunteered
When: Darla, you pick the date, since it's your house
What: Big Russ & Me by Tim Russert and The Time Traveler's Wife by by Stephanie Niffenegger
Thursday, May 29, 2008
May 28 - Where Did I Leave My Glasses?
Lisa hosted us for a discussion of Where Did I Leave My Glasses? The What, When, and Why of Normal Memory Loss by Martha Weinman Lear. We agreed that we liked the book (reservations about the light style not withstanding), and Leann summed it up best when she said, "It was just a relief" to hear that memory changes with age and there are things we can do about it.
Now to the important part: food. We had great appetizers and salads: strawberries & yogurt, three-layer Mexican dip, hummus & pita, olives; two Greek salads (that was both different and delicious!). Of course, the things Lisa made took the cake (no pun intended, you'll see what I mean). She made a fabulous roasted asparagus soup and a great chili, and for dessert, she made a chocolate angel food cake with whipped cream icing. Heavenly!
We also discussed potential book group outings. Heather sent word that she wants to see the movie Mama Mia when it comes out, and we agreed that sounds fun. We also talked about going to Manchester, VT (Northshire Bookstore), Montpelier, and other fairly local places. Let's do it, ladies!
Next Meeting
Where: Maureen's
When: Monday, July 14, 6:30 pm
What: On Gold Mountain: The One-Hundred-Year Odyssey of My Chinese-American Family by Lisa See
P.S. The Canonical List of Books for the group is now up to date! Here's the link:
http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dcv72sgv_1d5mjhd
Now to the important part: food. We had great appetizers and salads: strawberries & yogurt, three-layer Mexican dip, hummus & pita, olives; two Greek salads (that was both different and delicious!). Of course, the things Lisa made took the cake (no pun intended, you'll see what I mean). She made a fabulous roasted asparagus soup and a great chili, and for dessert, she made a chocolate angel food cake with whipped cream icing. Heavenly!
We also discussed potential book group outings. Heather sent word that she wants to see the movie Mama Mia when it comes out, and we agreed that sounds fun. We also talked about going to Manchester, VT (Northshire Bookstore), Montpelier, and other fairly local places. Let's do it, ladies!
Next Meeting
Where: Maureen's
When: Monday, July 14, 6:30 pm
What: On Gold Mountain: The One-Hundred-Year Odyssey of My Chinese-American Family by Lisa See
P.S. The Canonical List of Books for the group is now up to date! Here's the link:
http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dcv72sgv_1d5mjhd
Thursday, May 01, 2008
April 30, 2008 - American Cream
Eight of us gathered at my house for our discussion of the novel American Cream, by local author Catherine Tudish.
It was our very first pot luck. Naturally, I served soup, and I provided some veggies and dip. We ended up with lots of bread and many cookies but also sushi and chick pea salad. It was definitely easy for me, and everyone thought it worked out. One suggestion for the future is to let the hostess know what you plan to bring, so we can be sure to cover all the bases.
We had a really nice discussion of the book. I believe everyone liked it, but we had varying reactions to the main character's actions. It's the sign of good literature that we can understand the characters differently, don't you think?
Next Meeting
Where: Lisa's (Maureen is back up)
When: Wednesday, May 28, 6:30 p.m.
What: Where Did I Leave My Glasses? by Martha Weinman Lear
(if you want to read my review of this book, go to http://blogcritics.org/archives/2008/04/24/165535.php)
It was our very first pot luck. Naturally, I served soup, and I provided some veggies and dip. We ended up with lots of bread and many cookies but also sushi and chick pea salad. It was definitely easy for me, and everyone thought it worked out. One suggestion for the future is to let the hostess know what you plan to bring, so we can be sure to cover all the bases.
We had a really nice discussion of the book. I believe everyone liked it, but we had varying reactions to the main character's actions. It's the sign of good literature that we can understand the characters differently, don't you think?
Next Meeting
Where: Lisa's (Maureen is back up)
When: Wednesday, May 28, 6:30 p.m.
What: Where Did I Leave My Glasses? by Martha Weinman Lear
(if you want to read my review of this book, go to http://blogcritics.org/archives/2008/04/24/165535.php)
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Quiche Recipe
Here is Leann's fabulous quiche recipe.
IMPOSSIBLE QUICHE
1 cup meat (ham, bacon etc)
1 cup shredded natural Swiss cheese
1/3 cup chopped onion
3/4 cup Bisquick Original baking mix
1 and 1/2 cups whole milk
3 eggs
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1. Heat oven to 400 degrees
2. In a greased 9-inch pie plate sprinkle meat, cheese and onion.
3. In a medium bowl whisk together remaining ingredients until blended and pour into pie plate.
4. Bake 35 to 40 minutes or until knife inserted in center comes out clean.
5. Let stand 10 minutes.
Extra notes from Leann: I always put the pie plate on a foiled-covered cookie sheet because the pie plate is FULL when you put it into the oven and can easily spill over. You can leave out the meat and replace it with an extra vegetable. It usually looks "raw" in the middle after 35-40 minutes, but if the knife comes out clean, it is done. The outside edges will be brown.
Friday, March 28, 2008
March 27, Arundel
Leann hosted a small, unprepared group for our discussion of Arundel. We did talk about the book, but mostly about plot points for those of us who didn't know what happened. For a real discussion of the book, see Lisa's thoughtful e-mail message!
We had a great time though, talking about all kinds of things, ranging from high school band to ghost stories. Leann served us two delicious quiches, along with a green salad and yummy cookies for dessert.
Speaking of food, we talked about having the group go pot luck, and we did not reach a consensus. So, if you feel strongly one way or the other, please speak up. For next time, it's up to the hostess.
And the next hostess is....Lisa!
Next Meeting
What: American Cream by Catherine Tudish (here's my review, if you're interested)
Where: Lisa Ladd's
When: Late April (Lisa will let us know)
We had a great time though, talking about all kinds of things, ranging from high school band to ghost stories. Leann served us two delicious quiches, along with a green salad and yummy cookies for dessert.
Speaking of food, we talked about having the group go pot luck, and we did not reach a consensus. So, if you feel strongly one way or the other, please speak up. For next time, it's up to the hostess.
And the next hostess is....Lisa!
Next Meeting
What: American Cream by Catherine Tudish (here's my review, if you're interested)
Where: Lisa Ladd's
When: Late April (Lisa will let us know)
Saturday, February 16, 2008
February 15, 2008 - Mountains Beyond Mountains
Heather (and her dogs) hosted a small group at her beautiful home for our discussion of Mountains Beyond Mountains. She made a delicious chicken provencal, served with rice, sweet potatoes, and a wonderful spinach salad. There were munchies and wine galore and a fabulous "George Washington" cake or pie (cherries, chocolate, and whipped cream)...we were well-fed!
Everyone loved the book. Somebody asked: "Would you marry Paul Farmer, work for him, or give him money?" We almost all settled on giving him money, although I think Karen said she'd work for him for a few weeks tops. An amazing guy, an amazing story, and an amazing book.
Next Meeting
When: Thursday, March 27
Where: Leann's
What: Arundel by Kenneth Roberts
Everyone loved the book. Somebody asked: "Would you marry Paul Farmer, work for him, or give him money?" We almost all settled on giving him money, although I think Karen said she'd work for him for a few weeks tops. An amazing guy, an amazing story, and an amazing book.
Next Meeting
When: Thursday, March 27
Where: Leann's
What: Arundel by Kenneth Roberts
Sunday, January 06, 2008
January 4, 2008, Last Night at the Lobster
Ann hosted us for a large (10) gathering to discuss Last Night at the Lobster by Stewart O'Nan. Everyone loved the book. Those of us who had waited tables thought O'Nan had nailed the subject. Those who never had now know what it's like!
Ann served delicious veggie lasagna and not one, not two, but three fabulous desserts! (Flan, lemon poppyseed cake, and chocolate brownies with peanut butter chips - yum, yum, and yum!) We also had the pleasure of meeting Molly, Ann's beagle, who delighted us with her warmth and her appetite. Thanks, Ann!
Next Meeting
When: Friday, February 15
Where: Heather's
What: Mountains Beyond Mountains: The Quest of Dr. Paul Farmer, a Man Who Would Cure the World by Tracy Kidder
Note: The book has 4 1/2 stars on Amazon and got starred reviews from both Publisher's Weekly and Kirkus Reviews.
Ann served delicious veggie lasagna and not one, not two, but three fabulous desserts! (Flan, lemon poppyseed cake, and chocolate brownies with peanut butter chips - yum, yum, and yum!) We also had the pleasure of meeting Molly, Ann's beagle, who delighted us with her warmth and her appetite. Thanks, Ann!
Next Meeting
When: Friday, February 15
Where: Heather's
What: Mountains Beyond Mountains: The Quest of Dr. Paul Farmer, a Man Who Would Cure the World by Tracy Kidder
Note: The book has 4 1/2 stars on Amazon and got starred reviews from both Publisher's Weekly and Kirkus Reviews.
Friday, December 07, 2007
December 6, "show-and-tell"
My house was filled nearly to capacity last night for our annual Yankee Swap. Thanks everyone for coming and for all the stuff you brought! We also did book show-and-tell. I missed some of the discussion, but I saw pens and paper and furious scribbling going on, so I think it went well.
I made hamburger-vegetable-tortellini soup and Mexican minestrone. I'll post the former as soon as I can, but here's the link to the Mexican minestrone recipe at Better Homes and Gardens online:
http://recipes.bhg.com/recipes/recipedetail.jsp?recipeId=R056462
Next Meeting
When: Friday, January 4
Where: Ann's house
Book: Last Night at the Lobster by Stewart O'Nan
For those of you needing directions, Ann lives next door to me. So you can follow the directions to my house and just go to the second house on the left instead of the first.
I made hamburger-vegetable-tortellini soup and Mexican minestrone. I'll post the former as soon as I can, but here's the link to the Mexican minestrone recipe at Better Homes and Gardens online:
http://recipes.bhg.com/recipes/recipedetail.jsp?recipeId=R056462
Next Meeting
When: Friday, January 4
Where: Ann's house
Book: Last Night at the Lobster by Stewart O'Nan
For those of you needing directions, Ann lives next door to me. So you can follow the directions to my house and just go to the second house on the left instead of the first.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
October 22 - Water for Elephants
A small group met at Darla's last night to discuss Water for Elephants. Darla, assisted by her husband Dick (who BBQed and waited on us!), fed us well! Mini-pizza appetizers, a lovely green salad, delicious BBQ pork and sweet potatoes, yummy potato salad. And then Ghirardelli chocolate brownies and ice cream for dessert.
Everyone loved the book, both those in attendance and everyone I heard from. We talked about our experiences with circuses, about how the plot was laid out (yes, you were supposed to get the wrong idea about who killed August in the prologue), how wonderfully the author handled the issue of aging. We even talked about one of the book group guide questions in the back: how does Jacob's story mirror the story of Jacob in Genesis? Darla went and got us a bible, but Lisa had the answer. (He left home, got married, came back and claimed his birthright, or his brother's. Something like that. If you're really curious, try the Wikipedia article.)
Next Meetings
We had some discussion about what to do next, since we are several members unavailable in November or December or both. Here's what we decided:
--Nancy
Everyone loved the book, both those in attendance and everyone I heard from. We talked about our experiences with circuses, about how the plot was laid out (yes, you were supposed to get the wrong idea about who killed August in the prologue), how wonderfully the author handled the issue of aging. We even talked about one of the book group guide questions in the back: how does Jacob's story mirror the story of Jacob in Genesis? Darla went and got us a bible, but Lisa had the answer. (He left home, got married, came back and claimed his birthright, or his brother's. Something like that. If you're really curious, try the Wikipedia article.)
Next Meetings
We had some discussion about what to do next, since we are several members unavailable in November or December or both. Here's what we decided:
- For our November meeting, we will go on a shopping bus trip to Boston. Anybody who can make it, great -- it's a blast. Lisa will look into it for us.
- For December, I will host, and all you need to do is show up and share a book (or books) you've already read. We'll also do our annual Yankee swap.
--Nancy
September 26 - Three Cups of Tea
Jean hosted us at her beautiful home in Thetford and fed us wonderful stuff for our discussion of Three Cups of Tea.
Jean made two soups: Vermont cheddar and sausage and zucchini, both fabulous. She also made grilled garlic-tomato bread, cornbread, and zucchini bread (I think!), as well as a baked spinach appetizer and a blueberry pie for dessert. Wowee!
Everyone who attended love the book, except for me. (My excuse was that I was listening to it and didn't like the narrator.) It is a remarkable story, though, and I'm glad I heard about it. I think that sentiment holds true for everyone.
Next Meeting
Where: Darla's
When: Monday, October 22
What: Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
P.S. I brought a copy of my "Canonical List of Books" for the group, and everyone said they'd like a copy. I said I bring a copies next time, but if you'd like to take a look, here is the link: http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dcv72sgv_1d5mjhd&pli=1
Jean made two soups: Vermont cheddar and sausage and zucchini, both fabulous. She also made grilled garlic-tomato bread, cornbread, and zucchini bread (I think!), as well as a baked spinach appetizer and a blueberry pie for dessert. Wowee!
Everyone who attended love the book, except for me. (My excuse was that I was listening to it and didn't like the narrator.) It is a remarkable story, though, and I'm glad I heard about it. I think that sentiment holds true for everyone.
Next Meeting
Where: Darla's
When: Monday, October 22
What: Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
P.S. I brought a copy of my "Canonical List of Books" for the group, and everyone said they'd like a copy. I said I bring a copies next time, but if you'd like to take a look, here is the link: http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dcv72sgv_1d5mjhd&pli=1
Thursday, August 23, 2007
August 22 - Hooked
Karen hosted us for a lovely dinner. We got a tour of her wonderful gardens and then sat on the deck while she grilled chicken. She had at least three salads for us: a greens/feta/watermelon salad (which was so good!); a black bean & corn salad (also fabulous); and mozzarella and tomatoes from her garden. It was all topped off with chocolate indulgence cake and espresso/cappuccino by Karen's significant other Michael (brave man). Wow!
The overall assessment of Hooked was that it wasn't all that great: didn't hold our interest and/or had a far-fetched plot. Darla saw more in it from her perspective as a mother of computer-game-playing boys. She told us that game hardware is getting more interactive (you can buy "rumble packs" for Game Boy controllers that lets you feel explosions and the like), so it wasn't really far-fetched to her.
Next Meeting
We instituted a new idea this time -- whoever is hostess at the meeting gets to pick the next
book. Karen chose Ann's suggeston: Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace . . . One School at a Time.
Date: Wednesday, September 26
Place: Jean's
The overall assessment of Hooked was that it wasn't all that great: didn't hold our interest and/or had a far-fetched plot. Darla saw more in it from her perspective as a mother of computer-game-playing boys. She told us that game hardware is getting more interactive (you can buy "rumble packs" for Game Boy controllers that lets you feel explosions and the like), so it wasn't really far-fetched to her.
Next Meeting
We instituted a new idea this time -- whoever is hostess at the meeting gets to pick the next
book. Karen chose Ann's suggeston: Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace . . . One School at a Time.Date: Wednesday, September 26
Place: Jean's
Thursday, July 19, 2007
July 18 - I Am the Messenger
Lisa hosted us for a great meeting; almost everyone made it, and we welcomed new member Jean. Lisa made a baked veggie pasta dish (just perfect for the cool, rainy weather), had a lovely salad, served home-made sangria, and topped it off with a yummy trifle. Thanks, Lisa!
Everyone present liked I Am the Messenger. We discussed what age group reads young adult literature, because some of the scenes in the book were mature and/or disturbing. We generally found the ending disappointing, and Heather's criticism - how did Ed know what to do? - was echoed among several of us. We enjoyed the fact that it took place in Australia, and folks seemed fond of the Doorman, the smelly, coffee-drinking dog.
Typically, we talked about tons of other books. I did not write them down, so please feel free to chime in and remind folks. One thing I do recall was Kristin's mentioning that Stephanie Meyer's YA vampire stories, Twilight and New Moon, are big with jr. high girls right now, and she also loves them. I'd also like to report that these two books are the top 5 list on MySpace right now.
Next Meeting
Where: Karen's
When: Wednesday, August 22
What: Hooked by Matt Richtel
Everyone present liked I Am the Messenger. We discussed what age group reads young adult literature, because some of the scenes in the book were mature and/or disturbing. We generally found the ending disappointing, and Heather's criticism - how did Ed know what to do? - was echoed among several of us. We enjoyed the fact that it took place in Australia, and folks seemed fond of the Doorman, the smelly, coffee-drinking dog.
Typically, we talked about tons of other books. I did not write them down, so please feel free to chime in and remind folks. One thing I do recall was Kristin's mentioning that Stephanie Meyer's YA vampire stories, Twilight and New Moon, are big with jr. high girls right now, and she also loves them. I'd also like to report that these two books are the top 5 list on MySpace right now.
Next MeetingWhere: Karen's
When: Wednesday, August 22
What: Hooked by Matt Richtel
Monday, June 18, 2007
June 11 - Then We Came to the End
I missed 99.9% of this meeting. Thanks to Lisa for this summary:
Thank you Ann for hosting, the food was fabulous, (we all love lasagna) and the biscotti recipe must be shared! Nancy was missed, though she did turn up looking very fit after winning both softball games. . .yeah Fluent!!!
Most of us did not like THEN WE CAME TO THE END, finding that it was just not that funny (except the sushi part). Becky did like it, though I can't remember why?! (Nancy we need you!) Leann hasn't finished the book yet, Lisa felt the only part that she really got into was when Lynn was the narrator.
Next Meeting
Where: Lisa's
What: I am the Messenger by Markus Zusak
When: Wednesday, July 18
Thank you Ann for hosting, the food was fabulous, (we all love lasagna) and the biscotti recipe must be shared! Nancy was missed, though she did turn up looking very fit after winning both softball games. . .yeah Fluent!!!
Most of us did not like THEN WE CAME TO THE END, finding that it was just not that funny (except the sushi part). Becky did like it, though I can't remember why?! (Nancy we need you!) Leann hasn't finished the book yet, Lisa felt the only part that she really got into was when Lynn was the narrator.
Next Meeting
Where: Lisa's
What: I am the Messenger by Markus Zusak
When: Wednesday, July 18
Thursday, May 03, 2007
May 2 - The Class Castle
We had a lovely gathering at Leann's to discuss The Glass Castle: A Memoir
by Jeannette Walls. We welcomed new members Heather and Karen and had a long, lively discussion of the book, which everyone found to be amazing. Leann served a yummy cheeze stratta along with not one but two salads. It was delicious!
Regular Meeting Day?
We set the time and date for our next meeting (see below), but Leann has offered to help us set up a regular monthly meeting (e.g., the 2nd Tuesday, or the like). If we all e-mail her our monthly commitments, she'll compile them and make a recommendation. Just send her a message and say something like, "I'm busy the first Wednesday of every month."
Next Meeting:
When: Monday, June 11
Where: Ann's
What: Then We Came to the End: A Novel by Joshua Ferris
by Jeannette Walls. We welcomed new members Heather and Karen and had a long, lively discussion of the book, which everyone found to be amazing. Leann served a yummy cheeze stratta along with not one but two salads. It was delicious!Regular Meeting Day?
We set the time and date for our next meeting (see below), but Leann has offered to help us set up a regular monthly meeting (e.g., the 2nd Tuesday, or the like). If we all e-mail her our monthly commitments, she'll compile them and make a recommendation. Just send her a message and say something like, "I'm busy the first Wednesday of every month."
Next Meeting:
When: Monday, June 11
Where: Ann's
What: Then We Came to the End: A Novel by Joshua Ferris
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Two-Potato Soup
This recipe comes from The Big Book of Soups & Stews: 262 Recipes for Serious Comfort Food by Maryana Vollstedt.
1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
1 small yellow onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
2 stalks celery, chopped
2 large russet potatoes (1 1/2 pounds total), peeled and sliced
1 large sweet potato (3/4 pound), peeled and sliced
3 1/2 cups chicken stock or broth
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground white pepper
1 cup buttermilk or milk
1 Granny Smith apple, unpeeled, cored, and chopped for topping
In a large soup pot over medium heat, warm oil. Add onions, garlic, and celery and saute until tender, about 5 minutes. Add potatoes and mix well. Add stock, thyme, salt, and white pepper and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, until potatoes are soft, about 15 minutes.
Transfer to a blender or food processor in batches and process until smooth. Return soup to pot and add buttermilk. Simmer until heated through, about 10 minutes. Ladle into bowls and top with a few pieces of apple.
Notes on what I did
I used closer to 2 lbs. of baking potatoes and more like 4 cups of stock (because these were the amounts I had on hand and wanted to use up). I used regular pepper, probably less than half the salt, and skim milk. The soup still came out very thick.
1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
1 small yellow onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
2 stalks celery, chopped
2 large russet potatoes (1 1/2 pounds total), peeled and sliced
1 large sweet potato (3/4 pound), peeled and sliced
3 1/2 cups chicken stock or broth
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground white pepper
1 cup buttermilk or milk
1 Granny Smith apple, unpeeled, cored, and chopped for topping
In a large soup pot over medium heat, warm oil. Add onions, garlic, and celery and saute until tender, about 5 minutes. Add potatoes and mix well. Add stock, thyme, salt, and white pepper and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, until potatoes are soft, about 15 minutes.
Transfer to a blender or food processor in batches and process until smooth. Return soup to pot and add buttermilk. Simmer until heated through, about 10 minutes. Ladle into bowls and top with a few pieces of apple.
Notes on what I did
I used closer to 2 lbs. of baking potatoes and more like 4 cups of stock (because these were the amounts I had on hand and wanted to use up). I used regular pepper, probably less than half the salt, and skim milk. The soup still came out very thick.
March 7 - A Day of Small Beginnings
Hi, all. I hosted a small group to discuss A Day of Small Beginnings. I loved the book; I think Leann and Ann liked it. Becky joined us without having read it; she's taken it home to give it try.
My Two Potato Soup was a hit, and I post the recipe separately.
Next Meeting
We have tentatively scheduled the next meeting for Wednesday April 18th. Is that date OK for everyone?
Host: Leann
Book: The Glass Castle: A Memoir by Jeannette Walls.
My Two Potato Soup was a hit, and I post the recipe separately.
Next Meeting
We have tentatively scheduled the next meeting for Wednesday April 18th. Is that date OK for everyone?
Host: Leann
Book: The Glass Castle: A Memoir
by Jeannette Walls.
Friday, January 26, 2007
January 25, 2007 - To Kill a Mockingbird
A few of us warmed ourselves on delicious pesto soup at Becky's for our discussion of Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird. We also watched the 1962 movie, which won Gregory Peck the best acting Oscar. We loved the book and marveled at how closely the movie followed it. We got a late start on the movie and ended up leaving late. Thanks for hosting us, Becky!
We were wondering if the latter part of the month was harder to schedule than the earlier part, so we've decided to meet again in the beginning of March. Here are the particulars:
Where: Nancy's
When: Thursday, March 8
What: A Day of Small Beginnings by Lisa Pearl Rosenbaum
P.S. I noticed that Robert Duvall had an acting credit in the movie, but I didn't see him. I just looked it up in the Internet Movie Database, and guess what -- he played Boo Radley!
We were wondering if the latter part of the month was harder to schedule than the earlier part, so we've decided to meet again in the beginning of March. Here are the particulars:
Where: Nancy's
When: Thursday, March 8
What: A Day of Small Beginnings by Lisa Pearl Rosenbaum
P.S. I noticed that Robert Duvall had an acting credit in the movie, but I didn't see him. I just looked it up in the Internet Movie Database, and guess what -- he played Boo Radley!
Friday, December 15, 2006
December 14th meeting - Beneath a Marble Sky
We met at Kristen's for lovely soup (black bean and butternut squash-and-leek), Yankee swap, and a chat with John Shors, the author of Beneath a Marble Sky.
We all liked the book and enjoyed our 15-minute chat with Mr. Shors, who seems like a very nice man. It was fun to get the scoop on his movie deal for Beneath a Marble Sky and to hear about his next book, which he has just started.
We had a somewhat tame Yankee swap -- everybody ends up with nice stuff, so it's hard to be too covetous.
Thanks to Kristen, her husband, and baby Louise for hosting us! We had fun visit from the black labs too. ("I've never seen a coffee table cleaned off so fast," remarked Leann after the dogs came through furiously wagging their tails.)
Other Books
Books people talked about that I was able to note:
We're going classic in our next meeting.
Book: To Kill a Mockingbird
Place: Becky's
Date: January 25, 2007
We're going to discuss the book and watch the movie.
Happy holidays, everybody!
We all liked the book and enjoyed our 15-minute chat with Mr. Shors, who seems like a very nice man. It was fun to get the scoop on his movie deal for Beneath a Marble Sky and to hear about his next book, which he has just started.
We had a somewhat tame Yankee swap -- everybody ends up with nice stuff, so it's hard to be too covetous.
Thanks to Kristen, her husband, and baby Louise for hosting us! We had fun visit from the black labs too. ("I've never seen a coffee table cleaned off so fast," remarked Leann after the dogs came through furiously wagging their tails.)
Other Books
Books people talked about that I was able to note:
- Don't Know Much About History - readable history book, by Kenneth C. Davis
- The Hidden Assassins (and the first two in the series before this - The Blind Man of Seville and The Vanished Hands) - mysteries set in Spain, by Robert Wilson
- A Girl Named Zippy - memoir, by Haven Kimmel
- A Short History of Tractors in Ukrainian - fun fiction, by Marina Lewycka
We're going classic in our next meeting.
Book: To Kill a Mockingbird
Place: Becky's
Date: January 25, 2007
We're going to discuss the book and watch the movie.
Happy holidays, everybody!
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
New Book! Author Joining Us!
Several of us found our chosen book, The Inheritence of Loss, hard to get into, so we changed the discussion book to Beneath a Marble Sky, by John Shors. Mr. Shors talks to book groups over the phone, and he will be joining us for our disucssion on Monday, November 27th. We are very excitied!
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
October 16 meeting - The Thirteenth Tale
Lisa Ladd hosted us for a large group! We welcomed new member Gina welcomed and back Kristin (along with baby Louise!).
Lisa fed us well, of course. There were two soups: Lentil/Ham, and Winter Squash with pears and apples. The dessert was a harvest pumpkin roll (King Arthur recipe).
The Book
We had a good discussion of the book, too! Everybody liked it, but there was some disagreement about exactly when the story took place and who is the mysterious sister in Vida's house was. Kristin was more taken with the gothic story at Angelfield than the beginning of the book, which I find interesting, because I thought Angelfield dragged in some parts and loved the beginning. We also noted how some parts reminded us of other books we'd read recently (Shadow of the Wind, Brief History of the Dead). What is it with ghost stories in this group? At least this book had a happy ending.
Book Soup
Lisa shared three books she'd read: Saving Fish from Drowning by Amy Tan (a really fun read); The Italian Secretary by Caleb Carr (a good, new Sherlock Holmes story -- better than Conan Doyle!); and The Bookseller of Kabul by Asne Seierstad (a different, very interesting, and alarming take on Afghanistan, especially after reading Kite Runner).
Next Meeting
Our next meeting with November 27th at Kristin's, for which we are reading Kiran Desai's The Inheritance of Loss.
P.S.
For those of you who prefer independent bookstores but still like to shop online, check out BookSense.
Lisa fed us well, of course. There were two soups: Lentil/Ham, and Winter Squash with pears and apples. The dessert was a harvest pumpkin roll (King Arthur recipe).
The Book
We had a good discussion of the book, too! Everybody liked it, but there was some disagreement about exactly when the story took place and who is the mysterious sister in Vida's house was. Kristin was more taken with the gothic story at Angelfield than the beginning of the book, which I find interesting, because I thought Angelfield dragged in some parts and loved the beginning. We also noted how some parts reminded us of other books we'd read recently (Shadow of the Wind, Brief History of the Dead). What is it with ghost stories in this group? At least this book had a happy ending.
Book Soup
Lisa shared three books she'd read: Saving Fish from Drowning by Amy Tan (a really fun read); The Italian Secretary by Caleb Carr (a good, new Sherlock Holmes story -- better than Conan Doyle!); and The Bookseller of Kabul by Asne Seierstad (a different, very interesting, and alarming take on Afghanistan, especially after reading Kite Runner).
Next Meeting
Our next meeting with November 27th at Kristin's, for which we are reading Kiran Desai's The Inheritance of Loss.
P.S.
For those of you who prefer independent bookstores but still like to shop online, check out BookSense.
Friday, September 22, 2006
Recipe: Spicy Ethiopian Stew
Thanks, Becky!
Spicy Ethiopian Stew
1 Tbs. vegetable oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 small zucchini, diced
6 cups vegetable (or chicken) broth
¼ tsp. dried thyme leaves
½ tsp. cumin powder
½ tsp. curry powder
1/3 cup long-grain white rice
16 oz. thick & chunky salsa (you choose the spiciness)
2 cans (16oz) Garbanzo beans (chick peas), drained & rinsed
1/3 cup peanut butter
In a large saucepot, heat the oil to medium high and sauté the onions, sweet potato, garlic and zucchini for about 5 minutes. Add broth, thyme, cumin, and rice. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
Add the salsa and beans and bring to a boil. Add the peanut butter and stir until combined.
Tips from Gary’s test kitchen:
Before adding the peanut butter, dip out about 1 cup of liquid from the cook pot - be careful, it‘s hot. Add the peanut butter to the broth to make a slurry, then add this to the stew. (I’ve also used crunchy peanut butter when creamy was not in the kitchen cabinet! )
To make a thicker stew, puree a portion of the garbanzo beans in a food processor or immersion blender - with a little water - depending upon your preference.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Sept. 20 meeting, The Brief History of the Dead
Becky hosted us for our discussion of Kevin Brockmeier's The Brief History of the Dead
. She served us a delicious spicy Ethiopian soup, the recipe for which she promised to share. For dessert she made coconut custard pie, inspired by her time in North Carolina. I hear it was yummy (not a coconut girl myself, which was my loss).
The Book
We had an interesting discussion of the book. We talked about it for a while, then we stopped, and we kept coming back to it. Lisa had an interesting way to describe it: like early Ray Bradbury, but more literary, with a dash of Stephen King.
I found the ending depressing, but that sentiment was not universal. One thing that was: the chapter about the guy with the placards (chapter 7, "The Patriarch") ground the story to a halt. It was too long harping on the same thing. We also agreed that the story overall could be hard to follow and it wasn't always clear what had happened.
All that being said, I didn't hear anybody say they didn't like it. It's an interesting book that makes you think long after you've put it down.
Other Books
OK, I didn't catch what everybody was talking about when it came to other books. But Ann told us quite a bit about a non-fiction book called Flu
by Gina Kolata. It's the story of the 1918 flu pandemic. Sounds really interesting
And this one's for Darla. I was telling her about a book I just started reading and thought quite promising, but I remembered neither the author nor the title. So here it is: Greenstone Grail
by Amanda Hemmingway.
Next Meeting
Our next meeting will be at Lisa's, and we will read The Thirteenth Tale
by Diane Setterfield. The date will be either Monday, October 23, or Monday, October 16. Please chime in with your preference.
--Nancy
. She served us a delicious spicy Ethiopian soup, the recipe for which she promised to share. For dessert she made coconut custard pie, inspired by her time in North Carolina. I hear it was yummy (not a coconut girl myself, which was my loss).The Book
We had an interesting discussion of the book. We talked about it for a while, then we stopped, and we kept coming back to it. Lisa had an interesting way to describe it: like early Ray Bradbury, but more literary, with a dash of Stephen King.
I found the ending depressing, but that sentiment was not universal. One thing that was: the chapter about the guy with the placards (chapter 7, "The Patriarch") ground the story to a halt. It was too long harping on the same thing. We also agreed that the story overall could be hard to follow and it wasn't always clear what had happened.
All that being said, I didn't hear anybody say they didn't like it. It's an interesting book that makes you think long after you've put it down.
Other Books
OK, I didn't catch what everybody was talking about when it came to other books. But Ann told us quite a bit about a non-fiction book called Flu
by Gina Kolata. It's the story of the 1918 flu pandemic. Sounds really interestingAnd this one's for Darla. I was telling her about a book I just started reading and thought quite promising, but I remembered neither the author nor the title. So here it is: Greenstone Grail
by Amanda Hemmingway.Next Meeting
Our next meeting will be at Lisa's, and we will read The Thirteenth Tale
by Diane Setterfield. The date will be either Monday, October 23, or Monday, October 16. Please chime in with your preference.--Nancy
Thursday, August 24, 2006
August 23rd meeting - The Shadow of the Wind
Last night Leann hosted us and we welcomed new member Ann Perry and welcomed back Tracy Falls. While we waited for dinner and chatted, Darla showed up her list of like 100 books to read she had culled from the archives of CurledUp.com. (You have to check out the archives to see just what a daunting and obsessive task this was.)
Leann served us a delicious dinner of broccoli-mushroom quiche, Mexican broccoli slaw, Cesar salad, and cucumbers & vinegar, and topped it off with strawberry-rhubarb pie. Yum! We forgive you for not serving soup, Leann. :-)
Throughout dinner, we talked about The Shadow of the Wind, which we all loved. First Darla entertained us by reading the quotes she had taken down out of the book. Then we discussed Daniel's pal, Fermin, who was a favorite. We felt that Nuria was a tragic figure. The major plot surprise that Julian and Penelope were half-brother and half-sister was summed up by Becky, who said, "Yuck!" There was some feeling among the group that Daniel was self-absorbed and should have gotten over himself (and stopped whining that he was a coward), but we cut him a little slack for being a teenager through most of the book. In discussing the atmosphere in Barcelona after the Spanish Civil War and WWII, Lisa said it echoed our times. When Nancy tried to protest, she gave up, because she ended up supporting Lisa's point [and being called a Republican for her trouble ;-)].
Book Soup Time
Next Book & Meeting
We meet next at Becky's on September 20th. Book: The Brief History of the Dead by Kevin Brockmeier. (This was one of the NPR's summer reading series, "Caution: These Books May Make You Skip Work.")
Leann served us a delicious dinner of broccoli-mushroom quiche, Mexican broccoli slaw, Cesar salad, and cucumbers & vinegar, and topped it off with strawberry-rhubarb pie. Yum! We forgive you for not serving soup, Leann. :-)
Throughout dinner, we talked about The Shadow of the Wind, which we all loved. First Darla entertained us by reading the quotes she had taken down out of the book. Then we discussed Daniel's pal, Fermin, who was a favorite. We felt that Nuria was a tragic figure. The major plot surprise that Julian and Penelope were half-brother and half-sister was summed up by Becky, who said, "Yuck!" There was some feeling among the group that Daniel was self-absorbed and should have gotten over himself (and stopped whining that he was a coward), but we cut him a little slack for being a teenager through most of the book. In discussing the atmosphere in Barcelona after the Spanish Civil War and WWII, Lisa said it echoed our times. When Nancy tried to protest, she gave up, because she ended up supporting Lisa's point [and being called a Republican for her trouble ;-)].
Book Soup Time
- Darla recommends Instance of the Fingerpost by Iain Pears.
- Tracy recommends The King of Lies by John Hart .
Next Book & Meeting
We meet next at Becky's on September 20th. Book: The Brief History of the Dead by Kevin Brockmeier. (This was one of the NPR's summer reading series, "Caution: These Books May Make You Skip Work.")
Friday, July 14, 2006
July 13th Meeting - In Cold Blood
Thank you, Darla, for hosting our little group. You folks who couldn't make it, you missed out on good eats! Wonderful soup -- I know the ingredients but I don't know the name, a southwestern-flavor with ravioli. Plus enchiladas. And margaritas!
Let's see. People found In Cold Blood a bit of a tough read, and not everyone agreed with me that it was incredibly well-written. Then we watched "Capote," the movie, and found it very interesting. I had seen the movie before and enjoyed it much more this time, after having read the book. We agreed that Truman Capote was one strange dude. Oy, oy, I'm blanking, girls! I'd better start taking notes. I know we had a great time, enjoyed the discussion, and went home full. We all had kitchen envy too.
Next meeting
We will meet Wendesday, Augst 23rd, at Leann's, and we chose The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon.
Other books
A couple of us heard the NPR story, "Caution: These Books May Make You Skip Work" and were interested in the books discussed. I was intrigued by The Brief History of the Dead and ordered a copy.
Let's see. People found In Cold Blood a bit of a tough read, and not everyone agreed with me that it was incredibly well-written. Then we watched "Capote," the movie, and found it very interesting. I had seen the movie before and enjoyed it much more this time, after having read the book. We agreed that Truman Capote was one strange dude. Oy, oy, I'm blanking, girls! I'd better start taking notes. I know we had a great time, enjoyed the discussion, and went home full. We all had kitchen envy too.
Next meeting
We will meet Wendesday, Augst 23rd, at Leann's, and we chose The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon.
Other books
A couple of us heard the NPR story, "Caution: These Books May Make You Skip Work" and were interested in the books discussed. I was intrigued by The Brief History of the Dead and ordered a copy.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
May 9 Meeting - Without Reservations
Sue hosted us with delicious fresh, organic asparagus soup, a lovely green salad, bread, cheese, humus, baba ganoush, a lovely fruit salad ... please forgive me if I left anything out!
We read Without Reservations: The Travels of an Indpendent Woman by Alice Steinbach, and everyone liked it. Mostly it solicited stories of our own travel, and we had a good time with that. Soon we were off discussing everything else.
Around 9 we looked up and said, hmm, maybe we should pick a book and a place for next time. We decied on In Cold Blood by Truman Capote, meeting to be held at Darla's on June 13th, when we will watch the movie Capote. Doesn't that sound great?
We talked about going to see The DaVinci Code when it comes out, but we tabled the discussion until we can see where it will be playing. There was general agreement that the Lebanon 6 should be avoided if possible.
Until we eat again, keep reading!
--Nancy
We read Without Reservations: The Travels of an Indpendent Woman by Alice Steinbach, and everyone liked it. Mostly it solicited stories of our own travel, and we had a good time with that. Soon we were off discussing everything else.
Around 9 we looked up and said, hmm, maybe we should pick a book and a place for next time. We decied on In Cold Blood by Truman Capote, meeting to be held at Darla's on June 13th, when we will watch the movie Capote. Doesn't that sound great?
We talked about going to see The DaVinci Code when it comes out, but we tabled the discussion until we can see where it will be playing. There was general agreement that the Lebanon 6 should be avoided if possible.
Until we eat again, keep reading!
--Nancy
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
March 13 meeting - Anil's Ghost
Lisa fed us delicious homemade chicken soup and fantastic espresso cupcakes for our discussion of Anil's Ghost. We eventually had an excellent discussion of the book, which we all liked. (Please someone chime in, I'm having a brain cramp.) But first, I distracted us all with my tales of messing up my work life, which caused everyone practically to agree they were at a career crossroads too. Thank you all for listening, sharing, and making suggestions! We shall overcome! :-)
After much viewing of "light" books people brought for review, we chose Without Reservations by Alice Steinbach. Sue offered to host us on May 9th.
I mentioned a book I planned to read that talked about people who are "scanners"--people who want to do and learn everything, not just one thing. It is called Refuse to Choose by Barbara Sher. I will bring it to the next book group for show and tell.
Thanks everyone! Until we eat again!
--Nancy
After much viewing of "light" books people brought for review, we chose Without Reservations by Alice Steinbach. Sue offered to host us on May 9th.
I mentioned a book I planned to read that talked about people who are "scanners"--people who want to do and learn everything, not just one thing. It is called Refuse to Choose by Barbara Sher. I will bring it to the next book group for show and tell.
Thanks everyone! Until we eat again!
--Nancy
Friday, January 27, 2006
January 26, 2006 meeting - The End of Faith
We had a lively meeting at Nancy's house discussing The End of Faith by Sam Harris. Everyone seemed to dislike at least portions of it, and some of us took great exception to his arguments, which we found exaggerated. Some of us felt it was good that he made the argument that religion needs to be examined in the light of reason, and maybe it's just as well he pushed the envelope, because it makes people think about it and talk about it. But we agreed it was a hard book to read, and if Mr. Harris is really trying to reach a large audience, this might not be the way.
An aside: Nancy's husband Bill came home during our meeting and actually joined the discussion! Yay Bill!
Next Book
Many suggestions for the next book to read were floated. Nancy had the advantage of being able to access her pile of books, since she was host (served Irish Potato soup, green salad, bread), and we picked one of those: Anil's Ghost, by Michael Ondaatje.
Next Meeting will be at Lisa Ladd's in mid-March on a day-yet-to-be specified.
An aside: Nancy's husband Bill came home during our meeting and actually joined the discussion! Yay Bill!
Next Book
Many suggestions for the next book to read were floated. Nancy had the advantage of being able to access her pile of books, since she was host (served Irish Potato soup, green salad, bread), and we picked one of those: Anil's Ghost, by Michael Ondaatje.
Next Meeting will be at Lisa Ladd's in mid-March on a day-yet-to-be specified.
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