Where Does the Time Go?

Booking Through Thursday

• Have you ever missed an important appointment because you have become so engrossed in a book you forgot the time or were up so late reading that you didn't wake up in time? Been late to work because you couldn't resist the temptation and left the house too late?

Suggested by Jacquie.

Don't forget to leave a link to your actual response in the comments—or if you prefer, leave your answers in the comments themselves!

Truly Biblical

Booking Through Thursday

1. Just out of curiosity, as we enter into Passover and Easter season . . . have you ever read the Bible? Just the odd chapter or Psalm? The whole thing? (Or, almost the whole thing? It's some heavy reading, of course, and those "begats" get kind of tedious.)
2. If so, was it from religious motivation or from a literary perspective? Stuck with nothing else to read in a hotel room the Gideon's have visited? Any combination?
3. If not, why not? Against your religious principles? Too boring? Just not interested? Something you're planning on taking care of when you get marooned on a desert island?
4. And while we're on the subject . . . what about the other great religious works out there? Are they more to your liking?

Again, just curious! No flaming religious debates, please . . . Not that you folks would . . . but we're an equal-opportunity meme, open to any one of any creed, so long as they, you know, like to read . . .

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a><p><ol> <li><em>Just out of curiosity, as we enter into Passover and Easter season... have you ever read the Bible? Just the odd chapter or Psalm? The whole thing? (Or, almost the whole thing? It's some heavy reading, of course, and those "begats" get kind of tedious.) </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>If so, was it from religious motivation or from a literary perspective? Stuck with nothing else to read in a hotel room the Gideon's have visited? Any combination? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>If not, why not? Against your religious principles? Too boring? Just not interested? Something you're planning on taking care of when you get marooned on a desert island? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>And while we're on the subject... what about the other great religious works out there? Are they more to your liking? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Location, Location, Location, Part 2

Booking Through Thursday

Where do you do most of your reading? Your favorite spot? (Show a picture, if you want to!)

(And yes, I understand that these might not be the same thing--your favorite spot could be the beach, but you do most of your reading at home . . . in which case, tell me about both!)

Don't forget to leave a link to your actual response in the comments—or if you prefer, leave your answers in the comments themselves!

Keeping it Short

Booking Through Thursday

1. Short Stories? Or full-length novels?
2. And, what's your favorite source for short stories? (You know, if you read them.)

Don't forget to leave a link to your actual response in the comments—or if you prefer, leave your answers in the comments themselves!

Writing in Books, Part Three

Booking Through Thursday

1. Speaking of writing in books, what about writing the entire thing? Do you write? Aspire to write? Dream about writing?
2. If you do write, do you do it for yourself, or because you hope to be published? (Or because you ARE published?)

Don't forget to leave a link to your actual response in the comments—or if you prefer, leave your answers in the comments themselves!

Lending Library

Booking Through Thursday

1. Do you lend your books to other people? If so, any restrictions?
2. Do you borrow books from other people? (Friends or family—I'm not talking about the public library)
3. And, most importantly—do the books you lend/borrow get returned to their rightful owners??

Don't forget to leave a link to your actual response in the comments—or if you prefer, leave your answers in the comments themselves!

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a><p><ol> <li><em>Do you lend your books to other people? If so, any restrictions? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Do you borrow books from other people? (Friends or family—I'm not talking about the public library) </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>And, most importantly—do the books you lend/borrow get returned to their rightful owners?? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

But, Who's Counting?

Booking Through Thursday

1. How many books would you say you read in an average month?
2. In a year?
3. Over the last five years?
4. The last 10?

Don't forget to leave a link to your actual response in the comments--or if you prefer, leave your answers in the comments themselves!

Writing in Books, Part Two

Booking Through Thursday

1. A couple weeks ago, we asked about how you take care of your books, with one of the questions asking whether you write in your books. Well, what about books that are meant to be written in? Like, say, a journal or diary? Do you keep one? Obviously, if you're answering this, you have a blog--do you just let your blog be your journal? Or do you also keep one for private stuff also?

Don't forget to leave a link to your actual response in the comments--or if you prefer, leave your answers in the comments themselves!

Romance

Booking Through Thursday

So, in honor of Valentine's Day . . .

1. Love stories? Yes or No?
2. If yes, "romances" as a genre? Or just, well, stories that have love stories? (Nobody's going to call "Pride & Prejudice" a "romance," right?)

Don't forget to leave a link to your actual response in the comments--or if you prefer, leave your answers in the comments themselves!

TLC

Booking Through Thursday

What kind of care do you take of your books? Let's review, shall we?

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?
2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?
3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?
4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into bookbags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?
5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?
6. Um--water? Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?
7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?
8. Do you make a distinction--as regards book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?
9. And, to recap? Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?
10. Any additional comments?

Don't forget to leave a link to your actual response in the comments--or if you prefer, leave your answers in the comments themselves!

Habit-Forming

Booking Through Thursday

1. What are your reading habits? Do you tend to read at specific times during the day, or does it vary from day to day, hour to hour, minute to minute?

Don't forget to leave a link to your actual response in the comments--or if you prefer, leave your answers in the comments themselves!

TBR

1. How many unread books do you have in your house, right now? (Your own books, that is--not ones that belong to other family members--and not counting things like school books, if you have them.) Clearly, an estimate will do.
2. To the best of your recollection, what is the OLDEST unread book in your collection? How long has it been waiting?
3. Do your TBR books (that's "To Be Read," if you didn't know) haunt you, make you feel guilty that you haven't read them yet?

Oh, and library books don't count . . . not unless you absolutely don't have ANY other unread book except what you checked out last Tuesday.

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p><ol> <li><em>How many unread books do you have in your house, right now? (Your own books, that is--not ones that belong to other family members--and not counting things like school books, if you have them.) Clearly, an estimate will do. </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>To the best of your recollection, what is the OLDEST unread book in your collection? How long has it been waiting? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Do your TBR books (that's "To Be Read," if you didn't know) haunt you, make you feel guilty that you haven't read them yet? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

1, 2, 3....

The Page 123 Meme

1. Grab the book closest to you.
2. Open to page 123, look down to the 5th sentence.
3. Post the text of the next 3 sentences on your blog.
4. Include the title and the author's name.

If you feel so inclined, you can tag people once you've done yours... this WAS a meme, technically, but a fun one! My answers are already up, here.

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p><ol> <li><em>Grab the book closest to you. </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Open to page 123, look down to the 5th sentence. </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Post the text of the next 3 sentences on your blog. </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Include the title and the author's name. </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Keeping it Simple

Booking Through Thursday

Let's keep it simple today:

1. What are you reading right now? (Well, obviously, you're reading THIS right now, perhaps I should have been more clear. What book(s) are you in the process of reading? (grin))

Let's Review, Shall We?

Booking Through Thursday

So, now that 2006 is over . . . what were your favorite books of the year?

 

For the record, my own list can be found here.

I Hereby Resolve...

Booking Through Thursday

Any New Year's Reading Resolutions? A certain number of books you want to read in 2007? Certain genres? Something from your TBR pile? Classics to read? Authors to try? Anything at all??

Holiday Reading

1. Any favorite holiday books or stories that you like to read and reread this time of year? And if so, why? What makes it so special to you? Favorites from your childhood? (This is a perfectly good time of year for picture books--it's like watching the Charlie Brown Christmas special. Adults can "do" cartoons in December.)
2. (Psst. You can talk about favorite movies or tv specials, too, if you want, even though they're not about reading. You know, just this once.)

Can You Hear Me Now?

Audio Books. Yes or No?

Location, Location, Location

Do you like to keep your books nearby? Do you collect them? Pile, stack, shelve, hoard them? Or do you get rid of them, send them back to the library, give them away, once you've read them?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <em>Do you like to keep your books nearby? Do you collect them? Pile, stack, shelve, hoard them? Or do you get rid of them, send them back to the library, give them away, once you've read them? </em>Reply here

Nursery Rhymes

1. They say that books read as a child make more of an impact on a person than books read at any other time in life. Are there any books that you particularly loved, that shaped the way you think when you were little? I'm not asking if you believed in fairies then but don't any more. I'm asking about patterns of thought, morality--something that made an impact.
2. And, of course, examples, please!
3. Also, did you read this book/these books more than once? Many times? Even if that's not a usual habit of yours?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<br /><a href="http://not-a-real-namespace/http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol> <li><em>They say that books read as a child make more of an impact on a person than books read at any other time in life. Are there any books that you particularly loved, that shaped the way you think when you were little? I'm not asking if you believed in fairies then but don't any more. I'm asking about patterns of thought, morality--something that made an impact. </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>And, of course, examples, please! </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Also, did you read this book/these books more than once? Many times? Even if that's not a usual habit of yours? </em>Reply here</li></ol>

Thanksgiving

It's Thanksgiving here in the U.S. of A., and so we're taking this Thursday off . . . or at least, not asking about books.

But if you'd like to share what you're most thankful for this year, we'd be glad to hear it!

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone.

Reading Lists, Part Two

1. So, last week we asked you if you kept a list of books that you're interested in, wanting to read, wanting to buy, etc. This week, we want to know--do you keep a list of the books you've READ?
2. If so, how? In a journal? A notebook? On the computer?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<br /><a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com/"></a><br /><p><br /><ol><br /><li><em>So, last week we asked you if you kept a list of books that you're interested in, wanting to read, wanting to buy, etc. This week, we want to know--do you keep a list of the books you've READ? </em>Reply here</li><br /><li><em>If so, how? In a journal? A notebook? On the computer? </em>Reply here</li><br /></ol>

Reading list

Mary wants to know...

1. Do you keep a list of books to read?
2. Where do you keep your list (computer, PDA, paper, etc.)?
3. How often do you refer to your list? Every time you go for a new book to read? When book shopping? Or?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <a href="http://ltuande.blogspot.com/">Mary</a> wants to know... <ol> <li><em>Do you keep a list of books to read? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Where do you keep your list (computer, PDA, paper, etc.)? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>How often do you refer to your list? Every time you go for a new book to read? When book shopping? Or? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

NaNoWriMo

1. Yesterday, November 1st, began the annual NaNoWriMo challenge--where lots of marginally crazy people try to write a 50,000 word novel in one month. What do you think about that idea? Crazy? Inspired? Challenging?
2. Would you/Have you tried it yourself? In other years? (Or this one, in which case, shouldn't you be writing and not reading blogs?)
3. If you took away the time pressure, would you/have you tried writing a novel of your own?

(Hey, and for you knitters--there's a copy-cat, sweater version, too! NaNoSweMo. After the Knitting Olympics, knitting a sweater in a month doesn't sound so crazy.)

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol><li><em>Yesterday, November 1st, began the annual NaNoWriMo challenge--where lots of marginally crazy people try to write a 50,000 word novel in one month. What do you think about that idea? Crazy? Inspired? Challenging? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Would you/Have you tried it yourself? In other years? (Or this one, in which case, shouldn't you be writing and not reading blogs?) </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>If you took away the time pressure, would you/have you tried writing a novel of your own? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Writing in books

Christine wants to know...

1. Do you make notes in books as you read them?
2. Why or why not?
3. If you do, do you make notes only in certain kinds of books or all of them?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p><a href="http://xinef.livejournal.com/">Christine</a> wants to know... <ol> <li><em>Do you make notes in books as you read them? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Why or why not? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>If you do, do you make notes only in certain kinds of books or all of them? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Reading in bed

1. Do you read in bed? For how long? Do you fall asleep reading? Will a good book keep you up all night?
2. Where do you keep your nighttime reading? Do you have a special table next to the bed? Are there many books there? Do you keep books there that you aren't reading (finished or unread)?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol> <li><em>Do you read in bed? For how long? Do you fall asleep reading? Will a good book keep you up all night? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Where do you keep your nighttime reading? Do you have a special table next to the bed? Are there many books there? Do you keep books there that you aren't reading (finished or unread)? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Short stories

This week's questions were suggested by Xine, who no longer seems to have an account on Blogger, and I don't know where she went.

1. Do you read short stories?
2. Why or why not?
3. What do you like and dislike about short stories?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol> <li><em>Do you read short stories? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Why or why not? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What do you like and dislike about short stories? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Surprise Endings

1. Tell us about a book that you had to read, but didn't want to, but that you ended up liking. Something for school, perhaps? A book from your Mom for Christmas that she insisted on you reading? Something from a bookclub? But ultimately, a book that--against all expectation--you ended up liking, respecting, loving....
2. And, of course, why? What made this book resonate with you?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol> <li>Tell us about a book that you had to read, but didn't want to, but that you ended up liking. Something for school, perhaps? A book from your Mom for Christmas that she insisted on you reading? Something from a bookclub? But ultimately, a book that--against all expectation--you ended up liking, respecting, loving.... </li> <li>And, of course, why? What made this book resonate with you?</li> </ol>

Bookends

1. Do you own any bookends? If so, how many sets? If not, do you need or want any?
2. Which are your favorites? How long have you had them?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol> <li><em>Do you own any bookends? If so, how many sets? If not, do you need or want any? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Which are your favorites? How long have you had them? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

But, Enough About Books....

But, enough about books. . . what else do you read?? Magazines? Newspapers? Professional journals? Cereal boxes? Phone books? Purchase invoices? Homework? (Please be specific. There may be a test later.)

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> But, enough about books. . . what else do you read?? Magazines? Newspapers? Professional journals? Cereal boxes? Phone books? Purchase invoices? Homework? (Please be specific. There may be a test later.)

Men and Women

1. Do you tend to read more books written by one gender over the other? If so, which one? Men? Or women?
2. Is this a deliberate choice? Or just something that kind of happened?
3. And (without wanting to get too personal), is this your gender?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol> <li><em>Do you tend to read more books written by one gender over the other? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>If so, which one? Men? Or women? Is this a deliberate choice? Or just something that kind of happened? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>And (without wanting to get too personal), is this <em>your</em> gender? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Comfort Zone or Not?

1. We asked last week about what draws you to your favorite kind/genre of book. This week, we want to know--how often do you depart from that comfort zone? If you love mysteries, do you ever read fantasy? If you primarily read cookbooks, do you ever read a good romance?
2. How MUCH variety is there in your reading? Do you mostly stick to one type, with just the occasional toe-dip into a different style? Or do you generally read a variety of things, just, maybe more of your favorite style than anything else?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol> <li><em>We asked last week about what draws you to your favorite kind/genre of book. This week, we want to know--how often do you depart from that comfort zone? If you love mysteries, do you ever read fantasy? If you primarily read cookbooks, do you ever read a good romance? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>How MUCH variety is there in your reading? Do you mostly stick to one type, with just the occasional toe-dip into a different style? Or do you generally read a variety of things, just, maybe more of your favorite style than anything else? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Motivation

1. What is your favorite kind of reading? Novels? Biographies? Mathematical textbooks?
2. What do you like best about your favorite kind of reading? What keeps you coming back to that kind of book? Following a gripping story? Watching characters develop? Being educated about things and places you didn't know about? Letting your mind relax into someplace completely different?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol> <li><em>What is your favorite kind of reading? Novels? Biographies? Mathematical textbooks? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What do you like <em>best</em> about your favorite kind of reading? What keeps you coming back to that kind of book? Following a gripping story? Watching characters develop? Being educated about things and places you didn't know about? Letting your mind relax into someplace completely different?</em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Reading Geography

So, last week, we asked if you ever feel compelled to cook or eat the kinds of food described in the books you read.

This week, the question is about the locations of the books.

1. Have you ever wanted to travel to a place described in a book?
2. Have you ever ACTUALLY travelled to a place because of the way it was described in a book?
3. And if so, did it live up to the expectations, feelings, emotions you expected from the book? Did you feel like Anne was going to come romping around the corner of Green Gables? Was it as if Jo was upstairs at Orchard House, scribbling on a story? Or was it just a museum, or just a city street? Like Abbey Road without the Beatles?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol> <li><em>Have you ever wanted to travel to a place described in a book? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Have you ever ACTUALLY travelled to a place because of the way it was described in a book? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>And if so, did it live up to the expectations, feelings, emotions you expected from the book? Did you feel like Anne was going to come romping around the corner of Green Gables? Was it as if Jo was upstairs at Orchard House, scribbling on a story? Or was it just a museum, or just a city street? Like Abbey Road without the Beatles? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Eating your way through fiction

This week's questions were inspired by Caroline. She can't read The Joy Luck Club without thinking of potstickers and wontons... And no, we're not talking about cookbooks here. Please leave those out of this discussion. ;-)

1. Do you enjoy books that have cooking or eating scenes in them?
2. Have you made or eaten anything that was inspired by a recipe or scene in a book?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p>This week's questions were inspired by <a href="http://karolineknits.blogspot.com/">Caroline</a>. She can't read <em>The Joy Luck Club</em> without thinking of potstickers and wontons... And no, we're not talking about cookbooks here. Please leave those out of this discussion. ;-) <ol> <li><em>Do you enjoy books that have cooking or eating scenes in them? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Have you made or eaten anything that was inspired by a recipe or scene in a non-cooking book? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Planning Ahead

1. Do you plan ahead for your reading? Work off of a to-be-read pile? A reading list? Or do you wing it, choose whatever you're in the mood for?
2. If you do plan ahead, how far ahead? Do you have two or three books waiting in queue? Or are you backed up by dozens of volumes waiting their turn?
3. If you do not plan ahead . . . well, never? What about if you're reading a series? Or someone gives you a book for a present?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol> <li><em>Do you plan ahead for your reading? Work off of a to-be-read pile? A reading list? Or do you wing it, chooe whatever you're in the mood for? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>If you do plan ahead, how far ahead? Do you have two or three books waiting in queue? Or are you backed up by dozens of volumes waiting their turn? </em>Reply here</li> <li>If you do not plan ahead . . . well, <span style="font-style:italic;">never</span>? What about if you're reading a series? Or someone gives you a book for a present?</li> </ol>

Summer Reading

1. Do your reading habits change for the summer months?
2. If so, how?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol> <li><em>Do your reading habits change for the summer months? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>If so, how? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Ringing?

We noticed last week what a disproportionate number of participants had Tolkien's Lord of the Rings either in their list of "most tattered" books or featured in the photos. So . . .

1. Have you read Lord of the Rings?
2. If so, how many times have you read it? Just once? Or so many you can't count?
3. If not, why not? Not your cup of tea?
4. And, while we're on the subject, did you see the Oscar-winning movie(s)? What did you think?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<br /><a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com/">Booking Through Thursday</a><br /><p><br /> <ol><br /><li><em>Have you read Lord of the Rings? </em>Reply here</li><br /> <li><em>If so, how many times have you read it? Just once? Or so many you can't count? </em>Reply here</li><br /> <li><em>If not, why not? Not your cup of tea? </em>Reply here</li><br /> <li><em>And, while we're on the subject, did you see the Oscar-winning movie(s)? What did you think? </em>Reply here</li><br /> </ol>

Imperfection

1. What is most battered book in your collection? The one with loose pages, tattered corners, and page edges so soft that there's not even a risk of paper cuts anymore?
2. Why is this book so tattered? Is it that you love it so much that you've read it a zillion times? Is it a reference book you've used every day for the last seven years? Something your new puppy teethed on when you weren't looking?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <ol> <li><em>What is most battered book in your collection? The one with loose pages, tattered corners, and page edges so soft that there's not even a risk of paper cuts anymore? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Why is this book so tattered? Is it that you love it so much that you've read it a zillion times? Is it a reference book you've used every day for the last seven years? Something your new puppy teethed on when you weren't looking? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Perfection

Okay, here goes . . . my first set of questions. (Is stage fright normal for this kind of thing?)

1. What is the most pristine, perfect book in your collection? The one that looks like it's never been opened (and in fact may never have been)? Whose binding is uncracked, the corners still perfect?
2. Why is that book so perfect? Was it a gift? Is it a coffee table book too beautiful to use? Something you simply have no interest in and haven't bothered to open?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol> <li><em>What is the most pristine, perfect book in your collection? The one that looks like it's never been opened (and in fact may never have been)? Whose binding is uncracked, the corners still perfect?</em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Why is that book so perfect? Was it a gift? Is it a coffee table book too beautiful to use? Something you simply have no interest in and haven't bothered to open? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Happenings

Deb has graciously agreed to help me out here in this meme by coming up with questions for you all to answer this week and in the future. Yippee! Not only is Deb a book junkie—as evidenced by her library of 2,760 books—but she is also a superb knitter, and mom to her sweet dog, Chappy. Make sure you check out her blog, especially if you're into lace knitting. Wow!

Thank you, Deb!!

Non-fiction

This week's questions were suggested by Christine.

1. Do you read non-fiction books for pleasure, not counting books required for courses or for work?
2. If so, what areas of non-fiction interest you the most? If not, why not?
3. What are some of your favorite books from those areas?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> This week's questions were suggested by <a href="http://xinef.livejournal.com/">Christine</a>. <ol> <li><em>Do you read non-fiction books for pleasure, not counting books required for courses or for work?</em>Reply here</li> <li><em>If so, what areas of non-fiction interest you the most? If not, why not? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What are some of your favorite (or least favorite) books from those areas? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Rereading

Wait! It's Thursday. Wholly cow. For being physically present, I've been emotionally elsewhere of late. Sorry this is late, but at this point I'm lucky to have remembered it at all. Gads.

This week's questions were suggested by Marie.

1. Do you ever reread your books?
2. If so, which ones? If not, why not?
3. Do you read the books the whole way through or pick through for favorite scenes?
4. What qualifies a book for the reread pile?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p>This week's questions were suggested by <a href="http://knittale.blogspot.com/">Marie</a>. <ol> <li><em>Do you ever reread your books? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>If so, which ones? If not, why not? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Do you read the books the whole way through or pick through for favorite scenes? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What qualifies a book for the reread pile? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Abridged it?

We haven't talked about abridged stories for a while. These questions were suggested by Xine.

1. Are abridgements a good introduction to long, boring classics, or a blight on literature?
2. If abridgements have their place, what is it?
3. Have you read any abridgements, or will you read any? Why or why not?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> We haven't talked about abridged stories for a while. These questions were suggested by <a href="http://xinef.livejournal.com/">Xine</a>. <ol> <li><em>Are abridgements a good introduction to long, boring classics, or a blight on literature? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>If abridgements have their place, what is it? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Have you read any abridgements, or will you read any? Why or why not? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Characters

This week's questions were suggested by Mary.

Which book character(s) would you...

1. Like to have dinner with?
2. Believe would be the best to help you out in a crisis?
3. Like to ask for an autograph?
4. Most identify with personally?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> This week's questions were suggested by <a href="http://ltuande.blogspot.com/">Mary</a>. <p> Which book character(s) would you...<ol> <li><em>Like to have dinner with? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Believe would be the best to help you out in a crisis? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Like to ask for an autograph? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Most identify with personally? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Skipping another week

I'm not going to be in town this week, so I'm going to have to skip another week. Sorry, folks. I got some bad news about my dad last night, and have to go do family stuff. I hope to be posting here again on the fifteenth.

Best sellers from 1956

Jeanne came across this list of previous years' best sellers, and thought it might be fun to base some of our questions on them. I thought I'd start with 1956, the year my parents got married.

1. In 1956, these were the top ten best sellers for the year. Have you read any of them?
   1. Don't Go Near the Water, William Brinkley
   2. The Last Hurrah, Edwin O'Connor
   3. Peyton Place, Grace Metalious
   4. Auntie Mame, Patrick Dennis
   5. Eloise, Kay Thompson
   6. Andersonville, MacKinlay Kantor
   7. A Certain Smile, Françoise Sagan
   8. The Tribe That Lost Its Head, Nicholas Monsarrat
   9. The Mandarins, Simone de Beauvoir
   10. Boon Island, Kenneth Roberts
2. Which ones have you read? Did you like them?
3. If you're like me and haven't read a single one, which ones have you heard of?
4. Will you be putting any of these books in your reading list?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <a href="http://mathomhouse.typepad.com/bluestocking/">Jeanne</a> came across this list of <a href="http://www.caderbooks.com/bestintro.html">previous years' best sellers</a>, and thought it might be fun to base some of our questions on them. <ol> <li><em>In 1956, these were the top ten best sellers for the year. Have you read any of them?</em> <ol> <li><I>Don't Go Near the Water, </I>William Brinkley <li><I>The Last Hurrah, </I>Edwin O'Connor <li><I>Peyton Place, </I>Grace Metalious <li><I>Auntie Mame, </I>Patrick Dennis <li><I>Eloise, </I>Kay Thompson <li><I>Andersonville, </I>MacKinlay Kantor <li><I>A Certain Smile, </I>Françoise Sagan <li><I>The Tribe That Lost Its Head, </I>Nicholas Monsarrat <li><I>The Mandarins, </I>Simone de Beauvoir <li><I>Boon Island, </I>Kenneth Roberts </ol> Reply here </li> <li><em>Which ones have you read? Did you like them?</em> Reply here</li> <li><em>If you're like me and haven't read a single one, which ones have you heard of? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Will you be putting any of these books in your reading list?</em> Reply here</li> </ol>

Recent finishes

We haven't done anything like this for a while, so here goes...

1. What are the last five books that you finished reading?
2. How long did it take you to read them?
3. Did you enjoy reading these books? Why or why not?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol> <li><em>What are the last five books that you finished reading? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>How long did it take you to read them? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Did you enjoy reading these books? Why or why not? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Meeting authors

This week's questions were suggested by Cate.

Have you ever stumbled on a reading and found the author so charming you started reading their books? Or, have you ever met a formerly favorite author and stopped reading their works because of how they treated their fans?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> This week's questions were suggested by <a href="http://regency-cate.livejournal.com/">Cate</a>. <blockquote> Have you ever stumbled on a reading and found the author so charming you started reading their books? Or, have you ever met a formerly favorite author and stopped reading their works because of how they treated their fans? </blockquote>

Six degrees round robin

Jeanne suggested that we do this again, round robin style. I think it sounds like fun. It'll be interesting to see the book selections. I won't be here next week (see my blog for details, if you're so inclined), so see if you can keep this going for a couple of weeks. Here's what to do:

I'll start with a book, then the first person who comments uses my book as inspiration. Each person after that uses the book of the person above as their inspiration. There will be times when there's an overlap, with two or more people using the same book as their inspiration. When that happens, the next person will have their choice.

I hope that all make sense. If you need it said a little differently, see Jeanne's comment. Also, not required, but it would be nice if you link to the blog that inspired your book choice.

Since this one needs to go for a couple of weeks, feel free to play more than once!

The first book

I don't read classics as often as I should, but when I do I usually love them. One of my favorites is Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier. My husband has a nice collection of leather-bound books, and it's his special edition of this book that I first read. It made the experience just that much more enjoyable for me. The smell of the leather, the fine gilt-edged pages, the beauty of the prose, the eerie feeling of the tale, all made my first sojourn into this wonderful story that much more special.

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <a href="http://mathomhouse.typepad.com/bluestocking/">Jeanne</a> suggested that we do this again, round robin style. I think it sounds like fun. It'll be interesting to see the book selections. I won't be here next week (see <a href="http://laruaanne.blogspot.com">my blog</a> for details, if you're so inclined), so see if you can keep this going for a couple of weeks. Here's what to do: <blockquote>I'll start with a book, then the first person who comments uses my book as inspiration. Each person after that uses the book of the person above as their inspiration. There will be times when there's an overlap, with two or more people using the same book as their inspiration. When that happens, the next person will have their choice. </blockquote>

Six degrees of booking

This was suggested by Mary. If you need to, check out Mary's post to see what she did. Mary, since you already did this one, I think you should do it again with a new group of books. :-) I love this one. Great idea!

Connect any six books in your library to each other by any way you want. One book will remind you of another because the author's name is similar, a fictional character shows up in someone else's book, another author is talked about by characters in a book, maybe the same friend recommended both books, or whatever. Your list should be at least six books long. Books from a series count as one entry in your list.

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p>This was suggested by <a href="http://ltuande.blogspot.com/2006/04/six-degrees-of-booking.html">Mary</a>. <p> Connect any six books in your library to each other by any way you want. One book will remind you of another because the author's name is similar, a fictional character shows up in someone else's book, another author is talked about by characters in a book, maybe the same friend recommended both books, or whatever. Books from a series count as one entry in your list.

Something nearby

I'm a day late. Sorry folks. Yesterday was just insane. We haven't done this one for a while, and last time it was rather fun.

Reach out a hand, and grab the book that is closest to you. Turn to page 231, or pick a page at random if the book isn't that long. Locate the first sentence of the last paragraph on that page.

1. Type the sentence here:
2. Does the sentence make sense out of context?
3. Does reading the sentence make you want to read the rest of the book? Why or why not?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> Reach out a hand, and grab the book that is closest to you. Turn to page 231, or pick a page at random if the book isn't that long. Locate the first sentence of the last paragraph on that page. <ol> <li><em>Type the sentence here: </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Does the sentence make sense out of context? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Does reading the sentence make you want to read the rest of the book? Why or why not? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

An interesting character

This week's questions were suggested by Kim.

1. Do you have a favorite character(s)?
2. What book/author is he/she/it from?
3. Why do you like this person--what is it about the way he/she was written that drew you to them?
4. Is there something more you would like the author to tell you about them?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> This week's questions were suggested by <a href="http://knitterinprogress.blogspot.com/">Kim</a>. <ol> <li><em>Do you have a favorite character(s)? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What book/author is he/she/it from? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Why do you like this person--what is it about the way he/she was written that drew you to them? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Is there something more you would like the author to tell you about them? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

A favorite author

Pick one of your favorite authors.

1. What are some of your favorite books by this author?
2. Why do you like this author?
3. Have you read everything by this author? Why or why not?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p>Pick one of your favorite authors. <ol> <li><em>What are some of your favorite books by this author? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Why do you like this author? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Have you read everything by this author? Why or why not? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

New authors

Today's questions were suggested by Christine.

1. How do you decide to read a book by an author you haven't read before?
2. What sort of recommendations count most highly in making that decision?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p>Today's questions were suggested by <a href="http://xinef.livejournal.com/">Christine</a>. <ol> <li><em>How do you decide to read a book by an author you haven't read before? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What sort of recommendations count most highly in making that decision? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

This week's questions about self-help books are from Nicki.

1. Have you ever read a self-help book?
2. What do you think about self-help books in general?
3. Would you ever recommend a self-help book?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> This week's questions about self-help books are from <a href="http://plushcat.blogspot.com/">Nicki</a>. <ol> <li><em>Have you ever read a self-help book? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What do you think about self-help books in general? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Would you ever recommend a self-help book? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Autographs

This week's questions are from Cate.

1. Do you have any books that are signed by the author?
2. Do you have a story behind the autograph?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> This week's questions are from <a href="http://regency-cate.livejournal.com/">Cate</a>. <ol> <li><em>Do you have any books that are signed by the author? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Do you have a story behind the autograph? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Finishing

Today's questions are from Marie, who's a relatively new blogger. Thank you!

1. Do you finish every book you start, no matter how bad it gets? Why?
2. Do you ever sneak-read the ending before you finish the book? If so, what about the book tends to cause you to do so?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> Today's questions are from <a href="http://knittale.blogspot.com/">Marie</a>. Thank you! <ol> <li><em>Do you finish every book you start, no matter how bad it gets? Why? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Do you ever sneak-read the ending before you finish the book? If so, what about the book tends to cause you to do so? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Collecting authors

Today's questions were suggested by Cate.

1. Are you currently collecting any authors? Why?
2. Do you have all of their books? If not, why not?
3. Did you buy all the books in the collection at the same time, or did you buy a book here, a book there?
4. Have you actually read all the collection? If not, why not?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol> <li><em>Are you currently collecting any authors? Why? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Do you have all of their books? If not, why not? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Did you buy all the books in the collection at the same time, or did you buy a book here, a book there? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Have you read the whole collection? If not, why not? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Beautiful books

This week's question, suggested by Jeanne, is here by popular demand. Thank you, ladies!

1. What is the most beautiful book you own?
2. In what way is it beautiful? Is it the illustrations, the binding, a combination of these, or something else?
3. How often do you look at it, browse through it, read it?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> This week's question, suggested by <a href="http://mathomhouse.typepad.com/bluestocking/">Jeanne</a>, is here by popular demand. Thank you, ladies! <ol> <li><em>What is the most beautiful book you own? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>In what way is it beautiful? Is it the illustrations, the binding, a combination of these, or something else? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>How often do you look at it, browse through it, read it? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Vacation reading

1. How many books do you usually take with you on vacation? Too many? Too few? Do you still have room to pack clothes?
2. What kind of books do you read on vacation?
3. Do you read the same kind of books when you're on vacation as when you're at home?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol> <li><em>How many books do you usually take with you on vacation? Too many? Too few? Do you still have room to pack clothes? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What kind of books do you read on vacation? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Do you read the same kind of books when you're on vacation as when you're at home? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Lending

This week's questions brought to you by Deb, reader extraordinaire. Thank you, Deb.

1. Do you lend your books to other people?
2. If so, do you get them back?
3. What do you do if they're not returned? Send the police? Stop speaking to the borrower? Storm the house and take them back?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> This week's questions brought to you by <a href="http://chappysmom.typepad.com/">Deb</a>, reader extraordinaire. Thank you, Deb.<ol> <li><em>Do you lend your books to other people? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>If so, do you get them back? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What do you do if they're not returned? Send the police? Stop speaking to the borrower? Storm the house and take them back? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Multi-volume stories

I'm thinking here of any story that is split into more than one volume, stories such as Tolkien's Lord of the Rings, Rowling's Harry Potter volumes, Eddings' Belgariad, to name just a few. Christie's Hercule Perot stories do not count, nor do Gardner's Sherlock Holmes stories, as the reader can consume them in any order. Savvy?

1. Do you enjoy reading multi-volume stories?
2. Do you prefer the shorter stories that are done in two or three volumes, or do you willingly go for longer tales?
3. What do you like/dislike about these long tales?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> I'm thinking here of any story that is split into more than one volume, stories such as Tolkien's Lord of the Rings, Rowling's Harry Potter volumes, Eddings' Belgariad, to name just a few. Christie's Hercule Perot stories do not count, nor do Gardner's Sherlock Holmes stories, as the reader can consume them in any order. Savvy? <ol> <li><em>Do you enjoy reading multi-volume stories? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Do you prefer the shorter stories that are done in two or three volumes, or do you willingly go for longer tales? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What do you like/dislike about these long tales? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Reading report

We're just wrapping up the third week of January. Wow. Already. Time to check in with your reading report.

1. Have you finished any books yet?
2. If you have, how many, what were they, how did you like them?
3. If not, why not? Are you currently reading anything that you just haven't finished yet?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> We're just wrapping up the third week of January. Wow. Already. Time to check in with your reading report. <ol> <li><em>Have you finished any books yet? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>If you have, how many, what were they, how did you like them? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>If not, why not? Are you currently reading anything that you just haven't finished yet? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Celebrity books

Here's a little something Nicki came up with. I don't think we've done this one before... Thanks, gf!

1. What do you think of celebrities who write biographies when they're only twenty-something?
2. Have you read any?
3. What about novels by people such as politicians? Are they just cashing in on their fame?
4. Should ghost-writing be allowed or should the true writer get the credit?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol> <li><em>What do you think of celebrities who write biographies when they're only twenty-something? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Have you read any? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What about novels by people such as politicians? Are they just cashing in on their fame? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Should ghost-writing be allowed or should the true writer get the credit?</em>Reply here</li> </ol>

A new year

OMG. I completely forgot that yesterday was Thursday! Eek. Well, here's a little something to get you started... A day late.

1. Do you have a reading plan for the new year? Why or why not?
2. If you do, what is it?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol> <li><em>Do you have a reading plan for the new year? Why or why not? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>If you do, what is it? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Ug

Sorry, everyone. Off this week, too. I'm miserably sick with the flu. As soon as I can breathe again, I'm off to bed, where I belong...

Please hang with me. Have a great New Year's celebration, and I'll see you next year. :-)

Skipping a week

Yup. With Mom arriving tomorrow to spend Christmas with us, all the prep for that, Christmas cooking, parties, etc., my plate is full enough. I'll be back after Christmas. I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas, a happy Hanukkah, or whatever else you celebrate. :-)

Seasonal stories

What with Christmas coming and all...

1. Do you read Christmas-themed (or Hanukkah, or?) stories this time of year? If so, what kind (religious, mystery, etc.)?
2. Do you have any stories you traditionally read this time every year? If so, what? How did your tradition start?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> What with Christmas coming and all... <ol> <li><em>Do you read Christmas-themed (or Hanukkah, or?) stories this time of year? If so, what kind (religious, mystery, etc.)? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Do you have any stories you traditionally read this time every year? If so, what? How did your tradition start? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Wish list

Jeanne thought that it might be nice to have something a little simpler for a change, and I have to agree. Thanks for your suggestions, Jeanne!

1. What's on your book/reading wish list?
2. What books are you giving this year?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <a href="http://mathomhouse.typepad.com/bluestocking/">Jeanne</a> thought that it might be nice to have something a little simpler for a change, and I have to agree. Thanks for your suggestions, Jeanne! <ol> <li><em>What's on your book/reading wish list? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What books are you giving this year? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Lost in translation

This week's questions brought to you by Renée.

1. Have you ever read a book in a language other than your native language?
2. If so, how would you describe your experience?
3. Have you ever read a book translated from another language into your native language?
4. Why or why not?
5. If so, how would you describe your experience?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol> <li><em>Have you ever read a book in a language other than your native language?</em> Reply here</li> <li><em>If so, how would you describe your experience?</em> Reply here</li> <li><em>Have you ever read a book translated from another language into your native language?</em> Reply here</li> <li><em>Why or why not?</em> Reply here</li> <li><em>If so, how would you describe your experience?</em> Reply here</li> </ol>

Biography

I'm back from vacation. Sorry about the lack of questions last week, but well, I had other things on my mind... ;-) This week's questions are brought to you by Nicki.

1. Biographies and autobiographies—do you read them?
2. If so, whose life story has inspired you most and why?
3. If not, why not?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> This week's questions are brought to you by <a href="http://plushcat.blogspot.com/">Nicki</a>. <ol> <li><em>Biographies and autobiographies—do you read them? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>If so, whose life story has inspired you most and why? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>If not, why not? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Movies from books

A slight twist on last week's theme...

1. What book (or books) would you like to see made into a movie? Why?
2. What book (or books) would you definitely not want made into a movie?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol> <li><em>What book (or books) would you like to see made into a movie? Why? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What book (or books) would you definitely not want made into a movie? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Books into movies

Jeanne suggested that we talk about books that have been made into movies. Great idea! Thank you, Jeanne.

1. When you think of books that have been made into movies, what one comes to mind first?
2. Did the movie really capture the feeling of the book?
3. What about other movies from books? Which movies do you feel really captured (or if you prefer, didn't capture) the feeling of the books they were based on?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <a href="http://mathomhouse.typepad.com/bluestocking/">Jeanne</a> suggested that we talk about books that have been made into movies. <ol> <li><em>When you think of books that have been made into movies, what one comes to mind first? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Did the movie really capture the feeling of the book? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What about other movies from books? Which movies do you feel really captured (or if you prefer, didn't capture) the feeling of the books they were based on? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Fess up

This week's questions suggested by Christine, who didn't leave a URL so I can't link to her! :-(

1. What books have you read that you hate to admit reading? (You can either limit this to recent reads or go way back in time. Your choice.)
2. Why?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol> <li><em>What books have you read that you hate to admit reading? (You can either limit this to recent reads or go way back in time. Your choice.) </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Why? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Book clubs

I'm referring to the reading type of book club, where members all read the same book, then gather to discuss it.

1. Do you, or have you, ever belonged to a book club?
2. Why, or why not?
3. If you are in a book club, or were once, what did you like about it?
4. What did you dislike about the book club?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> I'm referring to the reading type of book club, where members all read the same book, then gather to discuss it. <ol> <li><em>Do you, or have you, ever belonged to a book club? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Why, or why not? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>If you are in a book club, or were once, what did you like about it? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What did you dislike about the book club? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

How bad is bad?

Here's another set of questions from Nicki.

1. What's the worst book you've ever read?
2. What's the book you hated the most?
3. Is the answer the same to both questions? If not, why not?
4. Why was this book (or these books) so bad?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> Here's another set of questions from <a href="http://plushcat.blogspot.com/">Nicki</a>. <ol> <li><em>What's the worst book you've ever read? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What's the book you hated the most? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Is the answer the same to both questions? If not, why not? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Why was this book (or these books) so bad? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Inconvenient

The answers to last week's questions were fun to read, so I'm going to do the same thing this week, with a little spin on it. I want you to dig out a book that's in a hard-to-get-to spot, then answer the same questions about it. As an example, I'll get a book out of our library upstairs. Now, you'd think this would be easy, but this time it isn't. There's a bookcase in the corner behind the wingback chair. I have to move the chair to get to the lower shelves. To make it even more inconvenient, I'll reach down behind the floor lamp that's there and get something off the bottom shelf.

Go get a book that is in the most inconvenient place in your home.

1. What corner of your house did you dig this book out of?
2. What are the book's title and author?
3. Turn to page 127. Locate the third paragraph, first sentence. Type that sentence here:
4. Does the sentence make sense out of context?
5. Seeing it sitting here by itself, out of the book, is it funny? Sad? Strange? Does it make you want to explore its source?
6. Are you currently reading this book? Why?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> Go get a book that is in the most inconvenient place in your home. <ol> <li><em>What corner of your house did you dig this book out of? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What are the book's title and author? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Turn to page 127. Locate the third paragraph, first sentence. Type that sentence here: </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Does the sentence make sense out of context? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Seeing it sitting here by itself, out of the book, is it funny? Sad? Strange? Does it make you want to explore its source? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Are you currently reading this book? Why? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Nearby

I'm posting this a little early as I know right now I'm not going to be able to do it on Thursday. I'm borrowing the inspiration for this from something I saw in a blog about five or six months ago. So, here goes.

Pick up the book that is closest to where you're sitting right now.

1. What are the book's title and author?
2. Turn to page 127. Locate the third paragraph, first sentence. Type that sentence here:
3. Does the sentence make sense out of context?
4. Seeing it sitting here by itself, out of the book, is it funny? Sad? Strange? Does it make you want to explore its source?
5. Are you currently reading this book? Why?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> Pick up the book that is closest to where you're sitting right now. <ol> <li><em>What are the book's title and author? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Turn to page 127. Locate the third paragraph, first sentence. Type that sentence here: </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Does the sentence make sense out of context? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Seeing it sitting here by itself, out of the book, is it funny? Sad? Strange? Does it make you want to explore its source? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Are you currently reading this book? Why? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Abridged and edited

Another fun suggestion from Nicki. Lady, you are the bomb! If anyone has suggestions for the future, please let me know.

1. Are abridged books a good thing or just plain awful?
2. How about books that are edited to modernize them?
3. Is dated language part of the charm of a book or an irritation?
4. Have you ever read an abridged or edited version of a book?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> <ol> <li><em>Are abridged books a good thing or just plain awful? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>How about books that are edited to modernize them? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Is dated language part of the charm of a book or an irritation? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Have you ever read an abridged or edited version of a book? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

A few things

A couple questions from Kim and Nicki...

1. What are your five favorite books of all time? Why did they make the list?
2. What's the earliest book you can remember? Do your family read? Who encouraged you to read?
3. Reference books—do you have any? Why do you have the ones you do? Do you use them?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <br> A couple questions from <a href="http://www.knitterinprogress.blogspot.com/">Kim</a> and <a href="http://plushcat.blogspot.com/">Nicki</a>... <ol> <li><em>What are your five favorite books of all time? Why did they make the list? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What's the earliest book you can remember? Do your family read? Who encouraged you to read? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Reference books—do you have any? Why do you have the ones you do? Do you use them? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Dream library

Kerry wants to know what your dream library is like. I think I'll expand on that a bit...

1. What kind of room is your dream library in (one wall of your living room, dedicated room, corner of the kitchen, etc.)?
2. What genre are most of your books?
3. Are the books all hard cover, paperback, leather, or mixed medium?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <br> <ol> <li><em>What kind of room is your dream library in (one wall of your living room, dedicated room, corner of the kitchen, etc.)?</em> Reply here</li> <li><em>What genre are most of your books?</em> Reply here</li> <li><em>Are the books all hard cover, paperback, leather, or mixed medium?</em> Reply here</li> </ol>

Desert island

Another suggestion from Nicki—the old desert island question. I don't know about you, but this one's always been difficult for me. I've always found it difficult to narrow it down to just a few books.

1. If you were stranded on a desert island, what three books would you want to have with you?
2. Why?
3. Is this list different than it would have been ten years ago? How?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <br> <ol> <li><em>If you were stranded on a desert island, what three books would you want to have with you?</em> Reply here</li> <li><em>Why?</em> Reply here</li> <li><em>Is this list different than it would have been ten years ago? How?</em> Reply here</li> </ol>

Dinner party

Today's questions brought to us by Nicki, who has come up with a ton of fun ideas, this being the first that struck me.

1. Which three authors would you invite to a dinner party (they can be dead)?
2. Why?
3. Would they get along?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> Today's questions brought to us by <a href="http://plushcat.blogspot.com/">Nicki</a>, who has come up with a ton of fun ideas, this being the first that struck me. <ol> <li><em>Which 3 authors would you invite to a dinner party (they can be dead)?</em> Reply here</li> <li><em>Why?</em> Reply here</li> <li><em>Would they get along?</em> Reply here</li> </ol>

Ugh

Sorry, folks, but my brain is completely in the wrong place today, and I have no ideas whatsoever. If I come up with something later on, I'll ask it, but don't hold your breath.

Desperately seeking ideas

If you have any suggestions, please share them with me. I'd love some input. I'll quite happily link to the blog of anyone suggesting something that I use.

The Belgariad

There seem to be quite a few people in addition to me who have read David Eddings series, The Belgariad, multiple times. So, this week, a few questions about these books.

1. First, have you read this five-book series? If so, how many times?
2. What brings you back to read this story again?
3. Who are your favorite characters? Why?
4. If you could magically be a part of their saga, would you? Would you want to take the place of one of the characters, or be someone new?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> There seem to be quite a few people in addition to me who have read David Eddings series, <em>The Belgariad, </em>multiple times. So, this week, a few questions about these books. <ol> <li><em>First, have you read this five-book series? If so, how many times? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What brings you back to read this story again? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Who are your favorite characters? Why? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>If you could magically be a part of their saga, would you? Would you want to take the place of one of the characters, or be someone new? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Fantasy anyone?

Roger Zelazny's Amber series, J.R.R. Tolkein's Lord of the Rings, David Eddings' Belgariad, and Stephen R. Donaldson's Thomas Covenant trilogies, are all classic examples of fantasy. None of them are books either of my parents would ever consider reading. I've devoured them all... And more.

1. Do you like to read fantasy?
2. What's your favorite (or least favorite if you don't like the genre) thing about reading fantasy?
3. Do you prefer regular people placed in alternate realities, like the Thomas Covenant stories and the Amber books, or do you prefer the whole world to come from the author's imagination? Or something else?
4. Do you have a favorite author or theme that you go back to again and again?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> Roger Zelazny's <em>Amber </em>series, J.R.R. Tolkein's <em>Lord of the Rings, </em>David Eddings' <em>Belgariad, </em>and Stephen R. Donaldson's <em>Thomas Covenant </em>trilogies, are all classic examples of fantasy. None of them are books either of my parents would ever consider reading. I've devoured them all... And more. <ol> <li><em>Do you like to read fantasy? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What's your favorite (or least favorite if you don't like the genre) thing about reading fantasy? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Do you prefer regular people placed in alternate realities, like the Thomas Covenant stories and the Amber books, or do you prefer the whole world to come from the author's imagination? Or something else? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Do you have a favorite author or theme that you go back to again and again? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

The knights of the round table

Whether based in fact or fiction, the legends of King Arthur have been the inspiration for many novels including Le Morte D'Arthur by Sir Thomas Malory, The Once and Future King by T. H. White, The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley, The Arthurian Saga series by Mary Stewart, and even A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court by Mark Twain, to name just a few.

1. Do you enjoy reading the legends of the King Arthur and the knights of the round table?
2. How long ago did you read them?
3. Will you ever read more of them or re-read any that you've read before?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> Whether based in fact or fiction, the legends of King Arthur have been the inspiration for many novels including <em>Le Morte D'Arthur</em> by Sir Thomas Malory, <em>The Once and Future King </em>by T. H. White, <em>The Mists of Avalon </em>by Marion Zimmer Bradley, <em>The Arthurian Saga </em>series by Mary Stewart, and even <em>A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court </em>by Mark Twain, to name just a few. <ol> <li><em>Do you enjoy reading the legends of the King Arthur and the knights of the round table? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>How long ago did you read them? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Will you ever read more of them or re-read any that you've read before? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Celebrate freedom

I bought a sweatshirt for my husband some years ago that says, "Celebrate freedom. Read a banned book." The shirt then goes on to list ten books that were currently banned somewhere in these United States. Here are a few examples: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain, The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger, The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck, The Call of the Wild by Jack London, and Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell. (For more information, see banned books online, and other sources.)

1. Have you ever knowingly read a banned book?
2. Have you read any of the books I listed above?
3. Knowing that the above books have been banned, would you read them now? Why?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> I bought a sweatshirt for my husband some years ago that says, "Celebrate freedom. Read a banned book." The shirt then goes on to list ten books that were currently banned somewhere in these United States. Here are a few examples: <em>The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn</em> by Mark Twain, <em>The Catcher in the Rye </em>by J. D. Salinger, <em>The Grapes of Wrath </em>by John Steinbeck, <em>The Call of the Wild </em>by Jack London, and <em>Gone With the Wind </em>by Margaret Mitchell. (For more information, see <a href="http://digital.library.upenn.edu/books/banned-books.html">banned books online</a>, and other sources.) <ol> <li><em>Have you ever knowingly read a banned book?</em> Reply here</li> <li><em>Have you read any of the books I listed above?</em> Reply here</li> <li><em>Knowing that the above books have been banned, would you read them now? Why?</em> Reply here</li> </ol>

Children's books

With J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince making its sensational debut last weekend I started thinking about children's books. There have been a lot of wonderful ones over the years, The Cat in the Hat, Where the Wild Things Are, Bambi, the Mother Westwind stories, the Chronicles of Narnia, the Chronicles of Prydain, Nancy Drew, and on and on.

1. As an adult, do you own children's books?
2. If you do, do you still read them even when there are no children around?
3. What were your favorites as a child? Now?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> With J.K. Rowling's <em>Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince </em>making its sensational debut last weekend I started thinking about children's books. There have been a lot of wonderful ones over the years, The Cat in the Hat, Where the Wild Things Are, Bambi, the Mother Westwind stories, the Chronicles of Narnia, the Chronicles of Prydain, Nancy Drew, and on and on. <ol> <li><em>As an adult, do you own children's books? </em>Reply here </li> <li><em>If you do, do you still read them even when there are no children around? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What were your favorites as a child? Now? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Come again?

Most stories are about people. Some authors are better with descriptions of places or things or weaving a tale than they are with character development. Some authors make the characters really come alive, seem like flesh and blood individuals with wills of their own, not merely the creation of someone's imagination.

1. What author that you remember having read does the best character development?
2. What book/series do you think is that author's shining work with regards to character development?
3. What was (were) your favorite character(s) in that book or series?
4. Do you ever find yourself really liking a character in a book that you're certain you would never be friends with in real life?
5. Do you ever re-read a book to visit a character because you miss him/her?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> Most stories are about people. Some authors are better with descriptions of places or things or weaving a tale than they are with character development. Some authors make the characters really come alive, seem like flesh and blood individuals with wills of their own, not merely the creation of someone's imagination. <ol> <li><em>What author that you remember having read does the best character development? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What book/series do you think is that author's shining work with regards to character development? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>What was (were) your favorite character(s) in that book or series? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Do you ever find yourself really liking a character in a book that you're certain you would never be friends with in real life? </em>Reply here</li> <li><em>Do you ever re-read a book to visit a character because you miss him/her? </em>Reply here</li> </ol>

Coffee table books

My own personal definition of a coffee table book is a book that is large, over-sized, has lots of pictures, is about a specific theme (e.g., Georgia O'Keeffe's 100 Flowers, steeple chasing, Disney Animation, the Golden Gate Bridge, etc.) and generally speaking not something that most people would sit down and read in an afternoon. Coffee table books are often displayed singly or in piles for the benefit of guests to peruse, to stimulate conversation, because they look good, or whatever.

1. Do you have any coffee table books?
2. Do you have one or two, or would you say you have a collection of them?
3. Do you keep them on your coffee table? If not, where?
4. What are they about?
5. Have you read them? All of them? None? Why?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p> My own personal definition of a coffee table book is a book that is large, over-sized, has lots of pictures, is about a specific theme (e.g., Georgia O'Keeffe's 100 Flowers, steeple chasing, Disney Animation, the Golden Gate Bridge, etc.) and generally speaking not something that most people would sit down and read in an afternoon. Coffee table books are often displayed singly or in piles for the benefit of guests to peruse, to stimulate conversation, because they look good, or whatever. <ol> <li>Do you have any coffee table books? </li> <li>Do you have one or two, or would you say you have a collection of them? </li> <li>Do you keep them on your coffee table? If not, where? </li> <li>What are they about? </li> <li>Have you read them? All of them? None? Why? </li> </ol>

Detective qualities

Most people I know enjoy some sort of mystery stories. My mother-in-law loved police and courtroom procedurals. My mother likes detective fiction. There are also murder mysteries, general mysteries, and hard-boiled detective stories, with protagonists such as Sherlock Holmes, Sam Spade, Amelia Peabody, Kinsey Millhone, Mamur Zapt, and Perry Mason to name a few.

1. Do you enjoy reading mysteries?
2. What's your favorite kind of mystery?
3. Do you like plenty of blood and guts, or do you prefer the details to be left to the reader's imagination?
4. Do you prefer mystery stories based in the author's time or in previous centuries?
5. Do you prefer mysteries based in your own country, or in distant lands?
6. Do you like to figure out the solution, or do you allow yourself to be carried away with the story?

If you want, highlight the stuff in the box, then copy it to your blog.

<a href="http://bookingthroughthursday.blogspot.com">Booking Through Thursday</a> <p>Most people I know enjoy some sort of mystery stories. My mother-in-law loved police and courtroom procedurals. My mother likes detective fiction. There are also murder mysteries, general mysteries, and hard-boiled detective stories, with protagonists such as Sherlock Holmes, Sam Spade, Amelia Peabody, Kinsey Millhone, Mamur Zapt, and Perry Mason to name a few.</p> <ol> <li><em>Do you enjoy reading mysteries?</em> Answer</li> <li><em>What's your favorite kind of mystery?</em> Answer</li> <li><em>Do you like plenty of blood and guts, or do you prefer the details to be left to the reader's imagination? </em>Answer</li> <li><em>Do you prefer mystery stories based in the author's time or in previous centuries? </em>Answer</li> <li><em>Do you prefer mysteries based in your own country, or in distant lands? </em>Answer</li> <li><em>Do you like to figure out the solution, or do you allow yourself to be carried away with the story? </em>Answer</li> </ol>

Series

Probably most books stand on their own. But a lot of them are part of a series. J.R.R. Tolkein's Lord of the Rings trilogy comes immediately to mind, as well as Stephen R. Donaldson's Gap series, Elizabeth Peters Amelia Peabody series, and lots more.

1. Do you read books that are part of a series?
2. Do you collect all the books in the series before starting?
3. What if the series is brand new, and the only book that's been published so far is Book 1?
4. As subsequent books in the series are published, do you go back and re-read the preceding books?

How many?

Some people are like my uncle, and they read four or five books a week, every week. Some are like my father, and read four or five books in a year.

1. How many books do you read in a week? Month? Year?
2. What's the best book or series of books you've read so far this year?
3. What's the worst book you read this year? Did you finish it?

Format

Some people, like my mother, only read paperback books. Others prefer hard cover books. Some read hard cover books because they come out first, but prefer paperbacks otherwise. And you?

1. Do you prefer to read hard cover or paperback books?
2. Why?
3. Do you read books in the other format anyway?

Buy, borrow, trade

Some people like to be surrounded by books, and keep everything they've ever read. Others don't like the clutter, and keep them long enough to read them. Most people seem to be somewhere in the middle...

1. Do you buy the books you read, or do you borrow them from the library or from friends or from somewhere else?
2. Do you prefer new or used books?
3. If you buy them, do you keep them?
4. If you don't keep them, how long do you hold on to them before letting them go? What do you do with them?