Bookish Brunettes

Summer and JP welcomed Cecily Nevada Elton yesterday (June
25th)! She was born at 5:45 a.m. - 6 lbs. 8 oz. - 19
inches. Everyone is happy and healthy!

Posted by at 10:03 AM | Permalink | Comments

Thank you to everyone that indicated their book interest for May. We'll be reading The Thirteenth Tale: A Novel by Diane Setterfield.

Don't forget that we'll be reading A Simple Plan by Scott Smith for April.

Posted by at 8:14 PM | Permalink | Comments

I have narrowed down my very long list of books-I-wish-I-had-time-to-read to three I think might make for a good book club discussion. Please post your vote as a comment by Monday, March 26th. If you're post-challenged, then send me an email. [I have changed the setting to allow all posts without moderation--so 1) include at least your initials so I know you're not some random person voting and 2) if you see something inappropriate posted let me know so I can delete it.] I'll post the final selection on Tuesday, March 27th.

In no particular order, the books are:


1) The Children's Hospital by Chris Adrian, "one of the most deleriously imaginative writers in America" according to Alan Cheuse, book critic for NPR.

An end of the world story, where the only surivivors are aboard a floating hospital, is narrated by four angels.




2) The Thirteenth Tale: A Novel by Diane Setterfield

"A plain girl gets wrapped up in a dark, haunted ruin of a house, which guards family secrets that are not hers and that she must discover at her peril." from Publishers Weekly




3) Strange Piece of Paradise by Terri Jentz

Terri Jentz returns to the scene where 30 years earlier, during a cross-country bike trip, she and a friend were brutally attacked by an ax-weilding assailant who was never brought to justice.

Posted by at 7:56 PM | Permalink | Comments

Hello,

We missed all who were not able to attend on Wednesday for book club. Overall, everyone seemed to have liked the book and Jill in particular said it was her favorite book club book so far!

We all agreed that the book was beautifully written… at times we felt like we were reading poetry! The history aspect of the book was woven in gracefully and did not dominate the entire story (otherwise Vivian would have probably stopped reading =). The characters were deep and real, Grace in particular seemed to be the favorite with her endurance, intelligence and sophistication.

We talked about everything from slavery issues, feelings about war and racism, characters in the book and moral decision making... what would we have done in the situation??

This was of course in addition to feasting on tapas and wine=). We celebrated Vivian's birthday as well with creme brulée, soufflé and banana fritters!

Next month’s book is Fried Green tomatoes… which will be an adventure in itself! Thanks for all of you who were able to come and we’ll see everyone else in March.
Happy reading!!

Posted by at 7:12 AM | Permalink | Comments

Hello Ladies,

Just wanted to remind you guys that book club is a week earlier this time... February 7th. I decided on Bin 555 for the location at 7:00PM. I have attached a map and the website so that you guys can find your way. Its not totally related to the theme of the book but I fell in love with the place and food so I want to share it with you guys!!
No, no I don't own stock in Bin 555.... just thought it would be fun =)

In case you guys haven't started the book...its wonderful!! I have heard one other great review so far from Jill (through VCS) so get reading =)
If you're worried about getting bogged down in the history, its not too bad. The story comes shining through and its really moving. If you hate the book... no problem come Feb 7th anyway, have a glass of wine and tell us why!

the directions and website are below. Bin 555 is located in the back of the artisan alley complex, so when you turn into the complex go to your right and follow the road to the back parking lot.

http://www.bin555.com/sa/index_sa.html


BIN 555 is located in north central San Antonio in The Shops at Artisans Alley off Bitters Rd. between Blanco Rd. and West Ave.

From San Antonio Airport:
Take ramp onto US-281 North - 1.7 milesExit the Bitters Rd. exit - 1.0 milesTurn left on Bitters Rd. -1.4 milesTurn right into Artisans Alley at 555 W. Bitters Rd.BIN 555 is tucked in the back right corner.

From Downtown:
Take US-281 North - approx. 8 miles Exit the Bitters Rd. exit - 1.0 milesTurn left on Bitters Rd. - 1.4 milesTurn right into Artisans Alley at 555 W. Bitters Rd.

From 1604:
Exit Blanco Rd. - go 2.2 milesTurn left on W Bitters Rd. - go 1.1 miles Turn left into Artisans Alley at 555 W. Bitters Rd.

Phone: (210) 496-0555

Posted by at 1:28 PM | Permalink | Comments

The "Winter Blast of 2007" (thank you WOAI) gave most of us two full days free from the frozen roads, windchill, and the office. With the thermostat straining to keep the temperature indoors at 70 degrees, it would have been a great time to curl up on the couch with a blanket and make some progress on the next book (or any book, for that matter). In true procrastination form, I spent my time surfing the internet and giving the blog a stylish new look, instead of reading to avoid other very important projects.


How did you spend your Ice Days?


During my internet adventures, I did come across an interesting site. Ever wonder what to do with that gem of a book that transformed your life/outlook/etc. and you want everyone to read? Check out Bookcrossing! (It's the ultimate book club.) See the life your old and admired books go on to live without you and the impression they leave on absolute strangers.


Anyone here ever come across a Bookcrossing book?

Posted by at 7:41 PM | Permalink | Comments

Hello Girls,

It was great seeing you all last week. I want to apologize to all those that did not get as much out of the Kite Runner due to overhyping... I am totally guilty of that =)

I wanted to introduce Summer Stewart to the Book Club! Although a blonde, she's really excited about joining and I think she will be a great addition to the club. Her e-mail address is: summer_stewart@yahoo.com so please add her to your e-mail lists.

thanks...happy reading!!!
Bijal

Posted by at 12:09 PM | Permalink | Comments