Mark's Reading Place: Chapter Nineteen

-Tom Thomson



-Purple Finch

Audiobook:



Graphic/Comic:



August:

90) The Raw Shark Texts by Steven Hall 4 stars
91) Department of Mind-Blowing Theories by Tom Gauld 3.7 stars GN
92) Hamnet by Maggie O'Farrell 4.8 stars
93) Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts 3.8 stars (audio)
94) The Driftless Area by Tom Drury 3.7 stars
95) All the King's Men by Robert Penn Warren 4.2 stars (audio) AAC
96) Sansei and Sensibility by Karen Tei Yamashita 4 stars
97) Blacktop Wasteland by S. A. Cosby 4.3 stars
98) The Orchid Thief by Susan Orlean 3.8 stars (audio)
99) Q Road by Bonnie Jo Campbell 3.7 stars
100) The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett 4 stars (audio)

September:

101) The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin 4.6 stars (audio)
102) Vesper Flights by Helen MacDonald 4.2 stars E
103) Burning Bright: Stories by Ron Rash 4.4 stars E
104) Migrations: A Novel by Charlotte McConaghy 4.3 stars
105) Postcolonial Love Poem: Poems by Natalie Diaz 4.7 stars P
106) Today Is the Last Day of the Rest of Your Life by Ulli Lust 4 stars GN
107) How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi 4 stars (audio)
108) Tiny Love: The Complete Stories by Larry Brown 5 stars

October:

109) The New Wilderness by Diane Cook 3.6 stars
110) The Home Place: Memoir by J. Drew Lanham 3.7 stars
111) The Pale-Faced Lie: A True Story by David Crow 4 stars (audio)
112) Utopia Avenue by David Mitchell 4.2 stars ER
113) Blue Pills: A Positive Love Story by Frederik Peeters 4 stars GN
114) Lost in the City: Stories by Edward P Jones 3.6 stars
115) Righteous (An IQ Novel 2) by Joe Ide 4 stars E
116) Erosion: Essays of Undoing by Terry Tempest Williams 4 stars (audio)
117) The Lives of Edie Pritchard by Larry Watson 3.7 stars ER
118) New Poets of Native Nations by Heid E. Erdrich 3.3 stars P

November:

119) Lupus by Frederik Peeters 4.4 stars GN
120) Memorial Drive: A Daughter's Memoir by Natasha Trethewey 4.5 stars (audio)
121) The Hidden Girl and Other Stories by Ken Liu 4.2 stars
122) The Sea by John Banville 4.3 stars
123) The Low, Low Woods by Carmen Maria Machado GN
124) Or What You Will by Jo Walton 4 stars
125) How to Fly: Poetry by Barbara Kingsolver 3.7 stars P
126) Dinosaurs on Other Planets: Stories by Danielle McLaughlin 4.3 stars
127) Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer 4.3 stars (audio)

-A juvenile White-Crowned Sparrow, along with a male Housefinch in the bottom photo. My feeders.

Open for business? Happy Thursday, Mark, and happy new thread.

Happy new one, Mark. Great photos!

>5 karenmarie: I am open, my friend and you are my first visitor! Sweet Thursday, Karen.

>6 jessibud2: Thanks, Shelley. I had to return to the Canadian artists.

>7 msf59: I recognized that topper the minute I stepped into your thread! Good choice, my friend! :-)

Happy new one, Mark. I like that Tom Thomson image up top.

>8 jessibud2: I knew you would love it, Shelley.

>9 katiekrug: Thanks, Katie. Thomson is a favorite of mine.

Happy new thread, Mark!!

Morning, Mark! Happy new one!

Happy new thread!

Hi Mark! From last thread, I'm glad you liked that shot of Saturn, Jupiter, and Athena's messengers! That was snagged from Phil Plait on Twitter. He reposted someone's astoundingly lucky shot and am I glad.

Thanks, Lynda, Mamie, Bill & Jim!

>15 richardderus: Hey, Rd. That was a very cool image. Go Mr. Plait!

Happy new thread!

Lovely images.

I finished reading Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett last night. This new novel (published in June) has gotten lots of buzz on many publisher forums. I got lucky and got it from the public library. It is a good novel. It reminds me very much of the work of Bernice L. McFadden. (I loved the Sugar books by McFadden.) Has anybody else read this novel?

>1 msf59: Love the Thomson, Mark.

Happy new thread, Mark.

>3 msf59: If I was on twitter I wouldn't hesitate to send it to Chump.

>17 quondame: Thanks, Susan.

>18 benitastrnad: I also enjoyed The Vanishing Half, Benita. Much more than her debut.

>19 Caroline_McElwee: Me too, Caroline.

>20 PaulCranswick: Thanks, Paul. I am sure Trump gets a lot worse on Twitter. Grins...

>18 benitastrnad:, >21 msf59: I just finished The Vanishing Half yesterday as well. I agree it was a better novel than Bennett's debut (The Mothers), although I have some quibbles that I'm still mulling over before writing a review.

Hmmm...wonder how scientific evidence would be handled if bird banding was banned...?

Online SMITHSONIAN magazine features "What May be The Largest Bird Ever."

Beautiful topper, Mark. Happy new one.

>22 lauralkeet: Thanks for chiming in on The Vanishing Half, Laura.

>23 m.belljackson: I don't think we will ever know, Marianne. Seeing any interesting birds in your yard or nearby?

>24 BLBera: Thanks, Beth.

-Nude in the Bath, With Dog- Pierre Bonnard (1867-1947)

This painting and Bonnard are mentioned several times in The Sea. I was not familiar with either. The woman is supposed to be the artist's wife. Anyone a fan of his art? BTW- the novel is filled with gorgeous writing.

Happy new thread, Mark!

Lovely painting at the top, I like the contrast between the deep blue of the lake and the white bark of the birches.

>26 msf59: I looked up that painting too, when I was reading The Sea.

I did not look up any paintings when I read The Sea because the book bored me to tears. Fortunately, his other books (the Quirke series) did not.

Happy new thread, Mark. And Yes, lovely painting at the top!

>26 msf59: I love the colours, but there's something spooky about it too.

Happy new one!

>27 FAMeulstee: Thanks, Anita. Do you remember if you liked The Sea?

>28 benitastrnad: I am enjoying The Sea, very much, Benita but I can tell it is not for all tastes.

>29 EllaTim: Thanks, Ella. I like the bathing painting, the more I spend time with it.

>30 figsfromthistle: Thanks, Figs.

Good grief, I must've blinked and missed a whole thread! Happy new one, Mark, and hopefully I'll stay a little better caught up 🙂

>32 bell7: Happy Friday, Mary. Things can move pretty quickly around here. Enjoy your weekend.

'Morning, Mark, and happy Friday to you. Looks like it's going to be a cold one for you. Any birding outings planned?

Morning, Mark! Happy Friday to you!

>26 msf59: I always do this, too. And if it's music that is mentioned, I like to listen to it.

>25 msf59:

Hi Mark - Happy to supply the minority opinion again since
I also think that falconry is cruel to both hawks and their prey!

RE: "Interesting birds in the yard...?"

Yep - this morning the neighbor's 8 visiting chickens and rooster made an unusual
noise outside the back patio. A quick check outside revealed a low flying hawk...
always a concern for both chickens and our neighbor's daily elderly tabby cat visits.

(Long story there about why he loves us - maybe for a slow thread time in February?)

Happy Friday, Birddude! What's on for the weekend?

Just checking in with you, Mark!

>34 karenmarie: Happy Friday, Karen. Yep, it was chilly- low 30s this morning but I got out for a solo bird hike and had a good time. Exercise, along with a couple of cool birds.

>35 Crazymamie: Hi, Mamie. No music mentioned in regards to the painting. So, you enjoy your baths? We are shower folk.

>36 m.belljackson: Hi, Marianne. Glad you enjoyed your chicken & tabby cat visit. I am surprised I have not been hearing more Sandhill Cranes. Have you?

>37 richardderus: Hey, RD. I am attending a guided bird walk tomorrow. They are splitting it up into 2 small groups and everyone is required to wear a mask. Not sure what my plans are for on Sunday, but I am sure books will be in the mix, at some point.

>38 katiekrug: Happy Friday, Katie. I hope the work day is going smoothly.

>35 Crazymamie: Um...NO. *shudder* I do not use the bath - only showers for me, thanks. I meant I always look up things like paintings and music that I am not familiar with that are mentioned in books I am reading

>41 Crazymamie: LOL, Mamie! Thanks for the clarification. I try to do that regularly too.

"From the Hugo, Nebula, and World Fantasy Award-winning author of Among Others, an utterly original novel about how stories are brought forth."

Jo Walton's latest novel, Or What You will came out in July but I had not heard an LT peep about it. WTH? It has a terrific premise and I know there are Walton fans here. I was not the only one who loved Among Others. I snagged an ARC of this, from somewhere. I will start it tomorrow.

That Bonnard bath tub could have folks off baths for quite a while.

The Dog is great!

>43 msf59: I read Or What You Will in August, rated it - but somehow the touchstone decided to go all Twelfth Night!

My review.

>43 msf59: I want to read it Or What You Will at some point, Mark, but haven't had a chance yet. I'll look forward to your thoughts on it.

>44 m.belljackson: LOL! Glad you like the dog at least.

>45 quondame: That is great to know, Susan. I missed your original review of Or What You Will but caught it this time. Good job.

>46 bell7: Do you have a copy, otherwise I will send you my ARC, Mary?

>47 msf59: I do not, and I would love that. I'm in the process of moving so PM me when you're done and I'll send you my current address. Thank you!

PLEASE, consider joining this year's Christmas Book Swap, hosted by Jeff, (mahsdad). I have been involved with this for years. This is one way we can safely spread some holiday book joy, something we could sure use in 2020. Here is the link:

http://www.librarything.com/topic/326191#unread

>48 bell7: Can you please remind me, Mary. I am an old retired guy now, but I will gladly wing it your way, once I am done.

>43 msf59: Oh that that sound really cool (Or What You Will)

>45 quondame: Yeah it came up was Twelfth Night for me too. I never understood how the touchstones would do an exact title match first, before it started to get creative. :/

>51 mahsdad: I am not a Shakespeare expert, Jeff but there has to be a connection with the Walton title. Wow, I am smart, right?

Wow! What a great, timely book haul and 3 out of 4 are from my LT pals. Shuggie Bain & Once Upon a River are from dear Ellen. An Enchantment of Birds is from dear Linda. Yes, there seems to be an avian theme here. Dinosaurs on Other Planets is a library grab and it sounds like an excellent story collection.

>52 msf59: Oh I'm sure there is a field somewhere in the data of each book that the search is using to make its connection. (And I would NEVER accuse you of not being smart :) ). This isn't the first time where the touchstones have picked a link for a book that is no were close to the title of the book. But as programmer by trade, I know that database lookups can be tricky sometimes and title and text searches especially.

>53 msf59: A fine assemblage indeed.

Happy New Thread, Mark--a little late to the party. Just love the Thomson in >1 msf59: and all your photos.

>56 kac522: Thanks, Kathy. Happy Weekend. I hope you and the family are doing well.

‘Morning, Mark, and a very happy Saturday to you!

>43 msf59: I bought it in August, haven’t ever read anything by her, have sort of forgotten about it, but might start it after the Dick Francis I’m reading.

>53 msf59: Nice collection Mark. Dinosaurs on other planets? Intriguing title. Love the beer, have a nice weekend.

>58 karenmarie: Morning, Karen. Hopefully, I can spark you into plucking the Walton off the shelf.

>59 EllaTim: Hi, Ella. I also love the title Dinosaurs on Other Planets but I think these are very human stories, about every day life.

Eastern Bluebird. This was from yesterday. I took the photo from my vehicle. He was sitting pretty on a sign. Thank you, Mr. Bluebird.

>61 msf59: Nice. Almost looks like a painting, with its simplicity.

Happy Saturday, Mark. All is well here, although I'm almost non-alcohol hungover from too much Zoom time yesterday. I just texted you - we just had a big raptor show up on our deck. I sent you a photo - we're thinking Peregrine Falcon, but are checking with you.

The books are good, and I finished a GN I can recommend - Welcome to the New World. A NYTimes reporter spent 3 years with a newly arrived Syrian refugee family, and captures what they went through. I also loved When Stars Are Scattered, which Debbi just finished and loved, too.

Morning, Mark! Love that photo of the bluebird - those are one of my favorites. There are a bunch of them that love to hang out in the pecan grove.

>61 msf59: I was going to say what >62 jnwelch: said...looks like that famous "Goldfinch" painting!

>62 jnwelch: Hi, Joe. Glad you like the bluebird shot. I stopped in the middle of the road and took this pic. Glad a car wasn't coming up behind me. Hooray for getting the Cooper's Hawk in your backyard. I will have to request Welcome to the New World. I don't have another GN going, at the moment. Thanks.

>63 Crazymamie: Hi, Mamie. I wish we had bluebirds behind our house. Lucky. We don't have quite the habitat. They like open spaces. I did see a few on my walk today too.

>64 richardderus: I was happy with that bluebird photo, Richard. They are quite photogenic.

^I got this glorious Pileated Woodpecker yesterday morning. He was moving around a lot and not giving me many clear looks, so this was the best photo I got. I love these guys. I saw another today but for just a brief moment or two.

Hi Mark, happy weekend. Not a bad day today but downpours and gusty winds tomorrow. A nice day to stay in.

I'm reading a short bio of President William Henry Harrison.

Hiya Mark! Loving all the books and birds. As per usual. : ) Happy weekend!

Great photos, Mark!

>67 lindapanzo: Hi, Linda. Always good to see you over here. I got out for a bird walk this morning but I think I will stay in tomorrow, with the books and some football.

>68 Berly: Happy Saturday, Kimmers! Great to see you, stranger. Good you like my birds & books.

>69 jessibud2: Thanks, Shelley. I get lucky now and then.

>70 msf59: Bears aren't on til Monday night, vs Minnesota, I think, but I'm assuming the Packers should be on Fox at noon.

Hi Mark, I have woefully fallen behind again. :( I did see that you recently read The Sea by John Banville. I read it about a year ago and thought his writing was wonderful. If I remember correctly there wasn't a lot of story to the book but rather a series of reflections on mortality, grief, death and memory. I will certainly be reading more from this author.

>31 msf59: Yes, Mark, I liked The Sea. I hope you like it too.

Hi Mark. I see that you gave The Sea 4.3 stars. I'm glad you enjoyed it. I read it a few years ago and loved it.

I have spotted a few Pileated Woodpeckers in my time. They are special. Back when I lived in Oregon and was into trail running, I paused on one of my runs in MacDonald Forest to watch a PW for about five minutes. He was just 20 feet away and not very high up his tree. it was breathtaking.

>71 lindapanzo: I have been disappointed in the Bears, Linda. The Vikings have been playing very well too. I think I would rather watch Rodgers & Co. Enjoy your Sunday.

>72 DeltaQueen50: Hi, Judy. Great to see you. You gave a perfect description of The Sea. I think I will borrow that for my mini-review. Grins...

>73 FAMeulstee: I am not surprised, Anita. It was well-written novel.

>74 EBT1002: Hi, Ellen. Glad to hear that you are also a fan of The Sea. Have you read anything else by him? Thanks for sharing your Pileated story. They are truly remarkable birds and I am always amazed, that for their size that they can stay so well-hidden.

^When I was watching the Pileated Woodpecker from my vehicle the other day, another guest showed up. He was eating the bird seed that a woman had left there. Yep, they are true scavengers.

120) Memorial Drive: A Daughter's Memoir by Natasha Trethewey 4.5 stars

In Atlanta, in 1985 the author's mother was killed by her ex-husband. This heart-breaking memoir details Trethewey's childhood and how she dealt with the grief and the loss that has haunted her through the years. The writing is beautiful. I also read and loved her poetry collection, Monument: Poems New and Selected. The memoir is excellent on audio too, with the author narrating.

121) The Hidden Girl and Other Stories by Ken Liu 4.2 stars

The Paper Menagerie and Other Stories is easily one of my favorite story collection and his latest offering The Hidden Girl is equally as terrific. A perfect blend of science fiction and fantasy, that is super smart but also quite accessible.

122) The Sea by John Banville 4.3 stars

After his wife's death a middle-aged Irishman returns to a seaside town, where he spent his childhood summers. He reflects on his past and how these summers shaped him. Not much plot here but these ruminations of love and loss are beautifully articulated.

Good morning, Mark, and happy Sunday to you! Books and beer should get you through the day, right? Our Panthers are playing at one today. They're 3-6 and McCaffrey's back out with a shoulder injury, I think. Sigh.

>61 msf59: Excellent photo. I’m impressed but not surprised.

>66 msf59: I love Pileated Woodpeckers but usually only see them if I’m on the porch as they fly across our pastures, which happens rarely. Louise said she saw one a few days ago in the trees near her back deck. Lucky you!

>76 msf59: And another good'un. You are getting some great shots. Thank you for posting them.

Morning, Karen. Perfect weather for a lazy day indoors. Books will be the main focus, although I am sure I will have a beer later on. Go Panthers!

Glad you like the photos. I get lucky now and then. Grins...

Coyotes will outlive all other canids, they're so successful at scavenging. Nice photo!

Stay inside! Y'all's weather looks *awful* today. I'm cursed with bright, glittery sunshine and cool temperatures instead of bone-achers.

Morning, Mark! Football watching here today, too. We will be watching that Packers game.

Judy hit me with a book bullet on your thread by describing the book you recently finished. What are the odds?

>80 richardderus: Yep, coyotes are sure scrappy survivalists. I read a terrific little book on coyotes and learned that we very nearly wiped them out during the last century or so. Now, they are back- coast to coast.

>81 Crazymamie: Morning, Mamie. The Sea is very good. You got hit with a fine BB. I plan on having the Packers game on in the background today too.

Enjoy the BEARS while you can - Giannis is getting ready to take on the BULLS!

Oh boy, Mark, go watch this Colbert cold open that Kath sent me!

>77 msf59: Glad you appreciated Memorial Drive as much as I did.

>83 m.belljackson: Happy Sunday, Marianne. That's right, the NBA season is right around the corner. Honestly, I don't watch much of it. Joe is a much bigger fan.

>84 richardderus: I will check it out. Thanks, RD! The link wouldn't open. Is it the one with Giuliani? If so, it is pretty funny.

>85 alphaorder: It is a terrific memoir, Nancy. Have you tried any of her poetry?

>86 msf59: Hm! It's a Chicago thing, then. The link wouldn't open for Joe, either, but I've fixed it with a different URL so it will for sure work now.

>77 msf59: I am planning to return to some audiobooks because I need to ride the stationary bike on a regular basis. Thanks for the recommendation for Memorial Drive in that format. I have several credits with Audible and I'll nab that one.

I have not read anything by Banville other than The Sea. My LT library tells me I have The Untouchable on my TBR shelves but I don't think I've noticed it in any of my recent shelf tours. I'll need to see if I can locate it.

I'm watching the Seahawks play like poop against the Rams. It feels like it's going to be a tale of two seasons. Our defense has been decimated by injuries and it shows.

I'm currently reading All Adults Here and quite enjoying it.

Have a great Sunday, Mark!

>87 richardderus: "Bids Adieu To Donald Trump"? I LOVE IT, Richard!

>88 EBT1002: Happy Sunday, Ellen. You will not be disappointed in Memorial Drive. Bummer about the Seahawks. I am a fan of that team too. Not paying a lot of attention to football today, since my loser Bears don't play until tomorrow night.
I have not read Emma Straub before. Is this your first rodeo?

^Anyone else pumped up about season 4 of The Crown? We get Maggie Thatcher and Princess Di. I liked but did not love the last season but this one has been getting solid reviews. I plan on watching the first one tonight.

>89 msf59: Bad-bye! No adieu for DT, no farewell, and especially no au revoir!

>90 msf59: - Me! Me! I'm pumped for it. I'm thinking of waiting and binge-ing it while on vacation for Thanksgiving :)

>90 msf59: This gone be goo-ood!

>91 quondame: Hear, hear!

Happy new thread, Mark. >3 msf59: is perfect.

>90 msf59: oh yeah, so excited! We watched the first episode tonight. It's off to a good start.

>91 quondame: Perfectly said, Susan. Bye-Don!!

>92 katiekrug: >93 richardderus: I really enjoyed the first 2 eps, Katie & RD! A bit lighter in tone than last season.

>94 banjo123: Thanks, Rhonda.

>95 lauralkeet: I watched the first 2 eps, Laura. I agree it is off to a promising start.

>90 msf59: I took a break from Crown and Doc Martin after Will passed. And, I was MIA in posting here both on my thread and that of others. Thankfully, you all waited and welcomed me gently. My reading seemed to slow as well, but now there are patches of no need to read, but even that is returning gently.

I love your opening poem. Where did you find this one?

I admit that every time I see a bird, I think of you, and immediately think "Mark would know which one that is."

This year my butterfly bushes were lush, giving a smell of sweet beauty. And, it is the sweetness that drew the quickly moving hummingbird. A while ago, when I closely looked into the purple flower, I thought I saw a bee. Looking more intently, to my joy, I found a hummingbird. There is no word for the feeling of elation and surprise.
They really are tremendously quick. It is amazing how fast their wings can hold them in motion.

Fleetingly, butterflies as well are drawn a few at a time. If I am quiet and stand still, I watch the long tongue of the beautiful yellow/black butterfly drink the nectar.

Enjoy your upcoming week knowing you can sleep later than usual, and can read for long periods with no time frame hanging over you.

>90 msf59: We are super excited about another season of The Crown, but tonight we started by watching the first episode of The Queen's Gambit. It is SO good.

Hey Mark, weird question: any authors you love named Joe or Joseph or Joey???

>97 Whisper1: Well, we sure are glad we coaxed you back into the fold, Linda. You have been an LT treasure for many years now. I hope you ease back into the TV shows and can find added comfort there. I think I found that poem on FB.

I am glad you enjoy the butterflies in your backyard. I have been trying to learn a few of them, so I can ID them on my walks. I still have been going to bed early and getting up early but I am sleeping more than I did, when I worked.



-Eastern Tiger Swallowtail. One of my favorites around here.

>100 msf59: You are in for a treat with The Crown, Ellen. I just finished The Queen's Gambit this week and LOVED it. I hope more LTers seek it out. Not a lot of authors with the first name Joe & Joseph, surprisingly- First one I could think of was Joe Hill and then there are 2 of the more classic authors Joseph Conrad & Joseph Heller. Bummer about your Seahawks.



^^ WATCH IT!!

Morning, Mark! I am excited about season four of The Crown, and I want to watch The Queen's Gambit - it looks really good.

>101 Crazymamie: Morning, Mamie! You should love The Queen's Gambit. I should have warbled louder about this gem.

'Morning, Mark, and happy Monday to you.

The friends who visited on Saturday recommended The Queen's Gambit too, so we'll probably watch it soon. The Crown, too.

>84 richardderus: I hadn't seen that, RD, thanks for the link.

Morning, Karen. Your friends have good taste. The Queen's Gambit is terrific. You are caught up with the earlier seasons of The Crown, right?

A Mojave Lullaby

Sleep, my little man-child,
Dream-time to you has come.

In the closely matted branches
Of the mesquite tree,
The mother-bird has nestled
Her little ones; see
From the ghost-hills of your fathers,
Purpling shadows eastward crawl,
While beyond the western sky-tints pale
As twilight spreads its pall.

The eastern hills are lighted,
See their sharp peaks burn and glow,
With the colors the Great Sky-Chief
Gave your father for his bow.
Hush my man-child; be not frighted,
'Tis the father’s step draws nigh.
O’er the trail along the river,
Where the arrow-weeds reach high
Above his dark head, see
He parts them with his strong hands,
As he steps forth into view.
He is coming home to mother,
Home to mother and to you.

Sleep my little man-child,
Daylight has gone.
There’s no twitter in the branches,
Dream-time has come.

-Bertrand N.O. Walker 1924

From A Poem-A-Day

Well, here it is a new week, 45's still acting like a giant toddler, and you don't have to go to work! In the blustering cold! Ever Again!!

Read hearty, Birddude.

>90 msf59: I just watched the penultimate episode of 'The Crown' Mark, and have enjoyed the series, whilst still remembering it is a fiction in many respects. I was never a Diana fan, and of course, no matter how well you know people, you never know what really goes on in a marriage, let alone in the lives of public figures. There have been some interesting episodes, but a lot of compression.

Found a package from Downer's Grove in the mailbox this afternoon. Fist pump! Thanks.

To celebrate, I stopped at the new/used bookstore to order a copy of Tana French's newest, The Searcher, for our daughter. Birthday present; hey, I ordered it on her birthday. Also ordered Obama's memoir, being published tomorrow. And found a couple of new-to-me Rex Stouts, The Doorbell Rang and Target Practice, a short story collection.

Started reading The Day of the Jackal the other day. And I am toting my copy of All the King's Men from room to room with me, even taking it for rides in the car.

Hmmm. The more things change, the more they stay the same. Weird. Oh.

>106 richardderus: I sure like the way you think, Richard. I just wish the orange toddler would just waddle away for good.

>107 Caroline_McElwee: Thanks, for chiming in on The Crown, Caroline. I know this isn't supposed to be faithful to history but sheer entertainment. Why didn't you like Diana? How did like Anderson's take on Maggie?

>108 weird_O: Fist Bump accepted, Bill. Thanks for letting me know. Enjoy the books. I will get to the new Obama memoir at some point. Still on the fence about the new French.

>98 EBT1002: Joe Haldeman is a favorite of mine. Also, Joe Ide, has been popular around LT this year. But that's all I can think of, other than Conrad and Heller.

>110 mahsdad: Thanks Jeff. I just read IQ by Joe IDE and enjoyed it. Perhaps I’ll snag the next in the series! And I’ll investigate Haldeman.

Hi Mark! We just started Queen's Gambit... it IS good.

>109 msf59: It's not that i did't like her, i was just interested in more serious things I guess. I was sad she died just as she found her maturity, and of course for her boys.

I thought Anderson did a great job of Thatcher. Not all actors want to give you a totally dislikable character, but she achieved that.

>110 mahsdad: >111 EBT1002: I forgot about Joe Ide. Good choice.

>112 banjo123: Hi, Rhonda. I prefer these limited series but The Queen's Gambit was over far to quickly.

>113 Caroline_McElwee: Thanks for the clarification on Princess Diana, Caroline. Anderson, an American, sure seems comfortable being a Brit. I think that is her adopted country.

-A Spotted Towhee

This beauty is mostly found in the American west, so when it shows up in a Midwestern backyard, (not mine) it is always a treat. I got some great looks too. LIFER!

‘Morning, Mark, and happy Tuesday to you.

>104 msf59: Yes, we’re caught up on the previous seasons of The Crown.

>108 weird_O: I ordered Obama’s memoir, too. And I’m reading all the Nero Wolfes in order this year. I’ve had to buy some and am waiting on number 27 of 47. And, a BB! Just ordered Target Practice and will add it to my list to make 48. Thanks, Bill.

>115 msf59: Fantastic! We have Eastern Towhees here, year round, but I’ve only seen one once, 3 ½ years ago.

Morning, Mark! Hooray for the lifer - most exciting. And so pretty! Like Karen, we have had Eastern Towhees here at the Pecan Paradisio.

>114 msf59: Yes, i think Anderson lives in the UK a fair bit.

After watching The Crown the following suggests where the inaccuracies are:

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2020/nov/16/the-crown-fake-history-new...

>115 msf59: Congrats! I love when they visit our yard. They're very cute. There's a flock that lives in the open space down the street. They have a very distinctive song so I usually hear them before I see them. We had some birder excitement here last week. Two different Magnificent Frigatebirds (that's quite a name) were blown in by a recent storm and were spotted at several lakes around the state. Certainly an unusual bird for our landlocked state! We've seen Great Frigatebirds often in Hawaii.

We loved The Queen's Gambit and The Crown is just wonderful. We're four episodes in.

Do you have Valentine on your radar?

eta: >118 Caroline_McElwee: I've been wondering about just how accurate it's been. Thanks for sharing.

>116 karenmarie: Hi, Karen. We have Eastern Towhees here too but I have never had one visit my feeders.

>117 Crazymamie: Hi, Mamie! Hooray for another towhee lover. We do have the Eastern here and see them now and then but never at my feeders.

>118 Caroline_McElwee: Thanks, for sharing the link, Caroline. I will check it out. I am sure there are plenty if inaccuracies.

>119 Copperskye: Thanks, Joanne. You mainly get the Spotted Towhee, right? I bet it is great to see a flock of them. Hooray for seeing a Magnificent Frigatebird. What a find in your landlocked state. I have also seen them on both Mexico coasts.

I was not familiar with "Valentine" but it sure sounds like something I would like. I hope we can get more LTers interested in The Queen's Gambit.

>120 msf59: Yes, the Spotted Towhee is fairly common here. We do get the very occasional Green-Tailed Towhee, last seen in my yard in Sept '19.

Spotted Towhee Day chez vous, how great! Lifers are so satisfying...it's like a reflected accomplishment, a shared triumph.

Hope your owling goes well today.

I am going to jump in to "The Crown" discussion. I don't watch it. Don't want to. Don't need to do so and don't understand the infatuation with it.

Why are American's so infatuated with the British Royals? Who are these people and why should we care about them and their rich people's squabbles? If their are any.

I have never really understood the American TV's love of docu-dramas. I get very frustrated by people who watch movies like Lawrence of Arabia or Platoon and fail to understand that they are fictional retellings of some true facts. The key word there is that these movies are fiction built on a skeleton of facts that make an interesting fictionalized story. I might be interested in watching "The Crown" for the retrospective look at sartorial fashions, but other than that it is just a story. If I want to know more about the modern British monarchy there might be a book available on it, but there are other works of nonfiction that are of more interest. Likewise I am sure that there are works of fiction based on the lives of this royal family, or those of the royal family of Monaco, or the aristocracy of Italy, or the super rich families of the U. S. ...

>121 Copperskye: Ooh, I want to see a Green-tailed Towhee, Joanne. I had not even heard of one. I hope they come back for you.

>122 richardderus: Thanks, Richard. I have been adding a lifer or two lately and all of them have been unusual visitors, that require seeking them out. Another bonus of retirement. No owls on today's owl hunt. I am going to try dusk next time.

>123 benitastrnad: I am not an obsessive TV watcher but I do really enjoy a well-crafted show, albeit CTM or Breaking Bad. I think most of us here, know that these history-based shows & films are equal parts fiction but we also find them quality entertainment. We have our books, for the times we want to dig deeper into a subject.

-White-winged Scoter (NMP)

"The white-winged scoter is a large sea duck. It breeds over the far north of North America. It winters further south in temperate zones, on the Great Lakes, the coasts of the northern United States and the southern coasts of Canada.. It forms large flocks on suitable coastal waters."

This is my second Scoter lifer in just under 3 weeks, the first being a Surf Scoter. This one was found in a forest preserve lake and it required my scope to get a decent look. I wish it could have been close for a photo and better observation. A striking bird.

>123 benitastrnad: I'm rather sympathetic to your view - though I did love the old Henry VIII and Elizabeth Rex series. But for sure anything about the modern royals is Brits in a big house writ large though I'm sure some of them are quite interesting people in ways that TV docudrama never catch.

>128 quondame:
Yes. For instance Camilla Parker-Bowles (AKA Duchess of Cornwall) is going to be one of the presenters at this year's Booker Prize awards. She is a reader, and her reading list that was published back in the spring proved so popular that publishers asked her to do a second - which came out this fall.

I just don't get the obsession with them. They are people, who for all practical purposes have had very little impact on anything in the last 100 years. Except to be very wealthy.

>129 benitastrnad: My favorite random wealthy person is Daphne Guinness just because she commissioned a platinum chain-mail gauntlet
and she looks like she actually has a sense of fun.

>115 msf59: That looks like a beautiful bird, Mark, congratulations on another lifer!

>126 msf59: You are making good use of retirement, with again a lifer :-)

>130 quondame: I assume this woman is from the Guinness dynasty? Not familiar with her.

>131 FAMeulstee: Thanks, Anita. It is difficult to add "lifers" these days. I need unusual visitors, which the last several were.

Morning, Mark! We have made it to Wednesday.

>127 msf59: This made me smile!

Hiya, Mark.

Yes, we're excited about and enjoying the new season of The Crown. I was saying to someone that I now have much more sympathy for Prince Charles than I used to. I agree with you about last season being subpar. This one is starting out well. I like the actress playing Diana.

I'm so glad you watched The Queen's Gambit! The Beth Harmon actress was mesmerizing, wasn't she. I'm going to track down her Emma, which I think is the most recent one made.

We got that second house I mentioned, so today has meetings with fixer-upper people. I hope yours goes well; looks like we're getting a good warmup in the afternoon.

Looks like you've been doing lots of good reading! I'll put that Ken Liu on the WL.

Hi Mark, and happy Wednesday to you.

>126 msf59: Wow, second lifer scoter. Congrats.

Clever old you to see a Supreme Court bird! A scotus? I didn't know they existed before today and now I know there are two of them!

>127 msf59: Ha!

I haven't started the new season of The Crown yet, but I fail to see what's wrong with enjoying something for the entertainment value. It's basically just a really well-done soap opera. To each their own. Watch it, don't watch it, but no need to be judge-y about it.

>133 Crazymamie: Happy Wednesday, Mamie! Boy, these days fly by!

>134 jnwelch: Hi, Joe. I am only 2 eps into The Crown but I am enjoying it. I am so glad you loved The Queen's Gambit. It is probably the best show I have seen in awhile. I also never saw the latest incarnation of Emma. I didn't realize it was the same actress. Congrats on the new place. How very cool.

>135 karenmarie: Hi, Karen. Hooray for the lifers, my friend. Got another one today. Yah!

>136 richardderus: I wish I could put either of these scoters on the Scotus, instead of the last two picks. I have been on a good LIFER roll lately, Richard.

>137 katiekrug: "...but I fail to see what's wrong with enjoying something for the entertainment value." I am with you, Katie, especially when it is of high quality.

"In Danielle McLaughlin’s stories, the world is both beautiful and alien. Men and women negotiate their surroundings as a tourist might navigate a distant country: watchfully, with a mixture of wonder and apprehension."

Dinosaurs on Other Planets: Stories sounds fantastic and how about that incredible cover? I am starting this promising collection tomorrow. Anyone else familiar with this author?

I have been miserably behind on the threads but happy new thread to you (a bit late on my part). Love the Tom Thomson topper.

I blew through season 4 of the Crown and thought the episodes were very well done. Like you I also watched the Queen's Gambit and thought it was good too.

Some time ago I read R.Kimmerer's book about moss and thought it was wonderful Gathering Moss.

Hope you're enjoying your retirement days with lots of birds and books.

>132 msf59: The heiress. I came across her in a google search for modern chain mail some years back and then did a few more searches.

>132 msf59:
Daphne Guinness is part of the Guinness clan. She is the daughter of Baron Moyne. He is Joseph Guinness. She is also the granddaughter of Diana Mitford - one of the Mitford sisters of Great Britain. She is wasn't wealthy enough because she was a Guinness, she added to her fortune when she married one of the sons of Stavros Niarchos, the Greek shipping billionaire. Her divorce settlement was 39 million. She is a fashion model, and a jewelry and fashion designer and worked with Andy Warhol and Karl Lagerfeld at different points in time. She was an associate of the British fashion designer Alexander McQueen. She is 53 years old. What is really intriguing is that it is said that she is the long time partner of the French philosopher Bernard-Henri Levy.

'Morning, Mark, and a very happy Thursday to you.

It's 27F out, hard freeze time. Thank goodness for coffee and warm winter sox!

>141 msf59: Tee hee.

>142 mdoris: Thanks, Mary. Great to see you. Glad you have also enjoyed The Crown & The Queen's Gambit. I sure like quality TV. Yep, retirement is "working" quite smoothly.

>143 quondame: >144 benitastrnad: See? This is why I hang around you folks. I am always learning something. Wasn't there a book on the Guinness dynasty awhile back?

>145 karenmarie: Morning, Karen. I think you may be colder at the moment, than we are. It looks to be a nice here today, inching up to the mid-60s but windy, as well.

Morning, Mark!

>141 msf59: They're gonna need a bigger bed!

>148 Crazymamie: "They're gonna need a bigger bed!" Amen, to that!

Morning, Mamie! Sweet Thursday!

>141 msf59: ...as if Melania sleeps in the same bed as 45...ha!

Happy Thursday, Mark, and may your winter bird rambles bring more lifers as soon as you go out again. *brr*

Hey Mark, did you see this piece on Chicago Tonight last night:

https://news.wttw.com/2020/11/18/local-teen-s-big-year-breaks-cook-county-birdin...

Have you seen this kid on your travels?

The Owl Who Came to the City
they found him in the Rock Center tree!

>153 EllaTim: A new trend! Owl fashion. He looks very stylish, in those colours.

>150 richardderus: "...as if Melania sleeps in the same bed as 45." I swear I thought the same thing, RD. No bird rambling for the Warbler today but I am sure I will get out tomorrow.

>151 kac522: Thanks for sharing this link, Kathy. I did see it, earlier this morning. What an impressive achievement. I may have met this young man before but I do not recall exactly where or when. I have recently visited this site, in the video where they are looking at the waterfowl. I did see the Eared Grebe too.

>152 richardderus: Great, heart-warming story, RD.

>153 EllaTim: He sure does, Ella.

Oak Flat just arrived for me via Boswell. I can't wait to start. Think you and Joe should check int out.

Hi, Mark!

>77 msf59: So glad the new Liu collection is as good as Paper Menagerie, which I loved. I just put The Hidden Girl on hold at the library.

>127 msf59: It may come to that.

>123 benitastrnad: I don't watch Lawrence of Arabia for its historical accuracy. I watch it because, you know, Peter O'Toole.

>141 msf59: Ew, ick.

>155 alphaorder: Oak Flat sounds great, Nancy and I LOVE that cover. I was also crazy about her work on the Radioactive GN. One of my faves. Did you ever read that?

>156 Storeetllr: Happy Friday, Mary. Great to see you. I am glad I hit you a BB, with The Hidden Girl. It is a terrific collection. I completely agree with you on films like Lawrence of Arabia too, which happens to be one of my favorite films. Just enjoy, right?

-Female White-winged Crossbill.

"White-winged Crossbill. Nomads of the spruce woods, White-winged Crossbills wander throughout the boreal zones of the northern hemisphere, often in large flocks. Their peculiar crossed bills are perfectly adapted for prying open spruce cones to get the seeds."

^These beauties rarely venture this far south but they had been seen recently at the Arboretum, feeding in the spruce/pines trees. As you can tell, I got good looks. Another LIFER.

‘Morning, Mark, and a very happy Friday to you.

>141 msf59: I forgot to comment on this one yesterday. OMG. News sources are now saying that the President is actively trying to steal the election. He’s invited MI elections officials to the White House, no doubt to try to get them to subvert the democratic process.

>159 msf59: You are really racking up the lifers lately. Congrats again. Beautiful photo – shows her crossbill off to perfection.

Another lifer! Congratulations, buddy. What an interesting feature to evolve - a cross-bill perfect for opening up spruce cones.

Dinosaurs on Other Planets sounds like it might be my cuppa, despite being short stories. I look forward to your comments on it.

Missionaries is rough going. Well-written but not light on atrocities.

Hope it's a good one, Mark. Happy Friday!

>160 karenmarie: Morning, Karen. Yes, Trump continues to be a scumbag. I guess he just can't help himself, despite Biden pushing an 80 million vote win. It has been a good Lifer roll. I hope to add a few more, before year's end.

>161 jnwelch: Morning, Joe. The crossbill is a beauty but I want to see the male, which is reddish. What a great matching pair, right? I am really enjoying my story collection. Edgy, human stories, set in modern Ireland.

No WONDER she looks like she has a massive overbite! A crossbill...and feeding on conifers...okay, scissors are going to work best for getting at the nuts.

...that sentence looks weird...

Anyway, happy FRIDAY and much good reading ahead!

>159 msf59: Cool. I like a bird with attitude!

>163 richardderus: Happy Friday, Richard. I am glad the crossbill has been a hit but, please be careful with those scissors. Yep, now that my chores are done, I am kicking back with the books.

>164 quondame: You got that right, Susan.

>157 msf59: - I haven't read Radioactive. I need to check it out!

>159 msf59: Congrats on the lifer! The crossbill is beautiful.

Speaking of kicking back with books...this list of story collections looks interesting...and the Iowa Short Fiction Prize winners are $5–$7 if you use their sale code IAHOL20.

Just sayin'

>166 alphaorder: I hope you get a chance to read Radioactive, Nancy. It is a terrific GN and worthy of the "Keeper" Shelf. Has Zoe seen a crossbill?

>167 richardderus: Thanks, Richard. I took a quick look at that first story collection list and was quite impressed. I will circle back and check it out more closely. Are those on sale too? I am intrigued by "F*ckface. LOL.

Love Poem, with Birds

They are your other flame. Your world
begins and ends with the dawn chorus,
a plaint of saw-whet owl, and in between,
the seven different neotropical warblers
you will see on your walk to the mailbox.
It takes a while. I know now not to worry.

Once I resented your wandering eye that
flew away mid-sentence, chasing any raft
of swallows, I knew, as we sat on the porch
unwinding the cares of our days, you were
listening to me through the fine mesh of oriole,
towhee, flycatcher. I said it was like kissing
through a screen door: You're not all here.

But who could be more present than a man
with the patience of sycamores, showing me
the hummingbird's nest you've spied so high
in a tree, my mortal eye can barely make out
the lichen-dabbed knot on an elbow of branch.
You will know the day her nestling leave it.

The wonder is that such an eye, that lets not
even the smallest sparrow fall from notice,
beholds me also. That I might walk the currents
of our days with red and golden feathers
in my hair, my plain tongue laced with music.
That we, the birds and I, may be text and
illumination in your book of common prayer.

-Barbara Kingsolver

125) How to Fly: In Ten Thousand Easy Lessons by Barbara Kingsolver 3.7 stars

It is no secret, I am a big fan of Kingsolver's fiction. This is the first time I have tried her poetry. She definitely has the chops. I think some of it sailed right over this Old Warbler's head, though, but more than a few hit the bulls-eye, like the one I featured above. I also love this bit, from the end of one her gems:

"With nothing left in the bank, you will
still want to take the express. Tiptoe
past the dogs of the apocalypse
asleep in the shade of your future.
Pay at the window. You'll be surprised:
you can pass off hope like a bad check.
You still have time, that's the thing.
To make it good."

>168 msf59: No, the new-pub list isn't part of the deal. Drat!

I've got a copy of Radioactive, Mark. It was recommended on some book list, so I ordered it. Very surprised to see it. Magnificent art and design. I did see a squib about her new book. Good topic, and bet it's great. Got to get a copy.

>171 richardderus: Those seem to be newer books and full-priced. Good list though, so it looks like I will be requesting a few of those from the library.

>172 weird_O: Radioactive is an amazing achievement, Bill and I am glad you feel the same. Someday, I would like it for my "Keeper" shelf. And you know, her latest is on my list too.

Morning, Mark!

>170 msf59: I love that poetry excerpt. I didn't know Kingsolver wrote poetry. I have not read any of her fiction, but I have a few in the stacks.

Hoping your Saturday is full of fabulous!

>174 Crazymamie: Morning, Mamie! Glad you like poem excerpt. I highly recommend trying Kingsolver's fiction. Start with The Bean Trees. And what a pleasant surprise, that she can write poetry so well.

Red-Tailed Hawk. This was just after sunrise and I like the way the sun touched it's left side. He was checking me out closely too.

>170 msf59: I have this near the top of the pile Mark. Glad it was a hit for you.

'Morning, Mark, and a very happy Saturday to you.

>176 msf59: Another excellent photo by the Bird Dude.

>177 Caroline_McElwee: I am glad you have How to Fly: In Ten Thousand Easy Lessons on the pile, Caroline. She is a talented poet. I couldn't always connect with all of them, but that happens with many poetry collections.

>178 karenmarie: Happy Saturday, Karen and thanks. I like it when my raptors cooperate.

>176 msf59: Lovely image! Happy Saturday's reads.

I've never read Kingsolver's poetry, Mark. I'll have to give her a try.

I saw this image on Twitter and thought of you immediately. Also, I want a framed copy!

Got the book today. Can’t wait to dive in!

Love the red tailed hawk - absolutely stunning pic.

I started on an interesting book today. Wayne and Ford: The Films, the Friendship, and the Forging of an American Hero by Nancy Schoenberger. This dual biography dissects the films of John Wayne and John Ford. The opening essay was very good and I can't wait to sit down with it later this evening and really get into it.

>180 richardderus: >182 richardderus: Thanks, Richard. I am really enjoying Dinosaurs On Other Planets. Keep this collection in mind.

I LOVE that owl image in the snow. I would also love a framed copy.

>181 BLBera: I think she has only had 2 poetry collections out, Beth. I will have to check out her first one.

>183 drneutron: Thanks for letting me know about the book, Jim. Enjoy, my friend. Glad you like the RTH photo. I am proud of that one.

>184 benitastrnad: As a big movie fan and a big fan of both Ford and Wayne, this looks like a great read. I always appreciate how diverse you are, Benita. I wouldn't think you would like something like this.

‘Morning, Mark! Happy Sunday to you.

>179 msf59: I like it when your raptors cooperate, too. *smile*

124) Or What You Will by Jo Walton 4 stars

“He has been too many things to count. He has been a dragon with a boy on his back. He has been a scholar, a warrior, a lover, and a thief. He has been dream and dreamer. He has been a god.”

“Writers are not nice people. We can't be.”

“Of course, all books are easier to read that to describe. This is true even when you’re a character in them, when that’s been your whole life, when you began as the author’s imaginary friend and wound up as narrator, protagonist, and bit part player in her over thirty novels. But I don’t know why we’re talking about you. This is a book about me."

I think this last quote sums up this wonderfully inventive novel. How a lonely girl's imaginary childhood friend, returns in her adulthood, rescuing her again, by becoming a key force in the novels that she is writing. She is now a 73 year old acclaimed author and is about to finally do away with her constant companion, but of course, “He” has different ideas. Walton's latest is another marvel of crafty intelligence and a paen to her love of literature.

Hiya, Mark! Just checking in and keeping up (as best I can)....

>187 karenmarie: Morning, Karen. Yes, the raptors have been cooperating wonderfully. I hope this trend continues.

>189 katiekrug: Morning, Katie. Good to see you. I hope those books are treating you well.

^The feisty, little Saw Whet Owl has been in the news lately, with the New York Christmas Tree story and I have been seeing one at the Arboretum. This photo is from the other day. I wish his eyes had been open. Unfortunately, many people have discovered his location, which is off one of the main paths. I hope isn't harassed enough to flee elsewhere. Folks get goofy and reckless about owls.

FYI- The Saw Whet was the very first owl I had seen in the wild. Same location too.

>188 msf59: I love Jo Walton, and I don't care who knows it. I read her monthly "Jo Walton's Reading List" on Tor.com, and always...all ways...end up adding at least one, usually two or three, of her reads to my "yes, please" list. (It's the one that Rob chooses gifts for me from.)

>191 msf59: Well, it's hard to blame us, you know. Owls are so cool that civilians just naturally get a little giddy around them. After all, they leave traces like >182 richardderus: when their snow hunts are successful! Gotta admit that is the coolest.

Spend a splendid Sunday.

>192 richardderus: I loved your comments on Walton, Richard. I should subscribe to her monthly newsletter. I hope you can bookhorn in her latest. I also loved your comments on our continuing fascination with owls.

"...a sweet and lonely boy who spends his 1980s childhood in run-down public housing in Glasgow, Scotland. A heartbreaking story of addiction, sexuality, and love, Shuggie Bain is an epic portrayal of a working-class family that is rarely seen in fiction."

Thanks to Ellen, for passing her copy of Shuggie Bain onto me. She loved it and hope I do too. I am starting this recent Booker prize winner today.

>192 richardderus: Oh goody. I thought Jo Walton's column at Tor were a thing of the past but the reading list seems to have been going on for over a year while I wasn't paying attention. Not that I'm starved for things to read - Exhalation is amazing - but still I should have paid better/any attention to the e-mails from Tor.com.

Or What You Will sounds good, Mark.

>100 msf59: We are loving The Queen's Gambit!! Hope you had a great weekend. Hugs.

>195 quondame: I fixed the quirky touchstone, Susan. This time it was my fault. I have still not read Exhalation but I have a copy on shelf.

>196 BLBera: Glad I got you with a BB, Beth. Have you read Walton?

>197 Berly: Hey, Kimmers. Good to see you. Not surprised that you are loving The Queen's Gambit. I had a good weekend. I hope you did too.

-Eurasion Wigeon (NMP)

"Common and widespread in the Old World, the Eurasian Wigeon is a sporadic visitor to North America. Regular in very small numbers along the Pacific and Atlantic coasts, single individuals have turned up in nearly all states and provinces."

I was rewarded with another LIFER yesterday, with the Eurasion Wigeon. It was in a marshy area and I needed my scope to see him. A real beauty. He was mixed in with American Wigeons, which do migrate through here, through the fall and early winter months.



-American Wigeon (NMP)

>199 msf59: Another Lifer, congratulations Mark. (A bit green with envy here)

That Eurasian Widgeon is a very, very, very familiar winter guest here. They are coming in right now. Around 900.000 birds spend their winter in the Netherlands. Now your American Widgeon, he would be a Lifer for me.

>200 EllaTim: Thanks, Ella. I was hoping that one of my European pals, chimed in on the Eurasion Wigeon. Yah! Gorgeous birds, right? Maybe, one day an American will blow your way.

>199 msf59: The scope is paying off! Thanks for sharing your beautiful finds, and congrats on your lifer.

'Morning, Mark, and happy Monday to you.

>199 msf59: Congrats on another lifer. Beautiful bird.

Happy Whatever Day of the Week It Is, Mark. :-)

Love RD's owl imprint in the snow, and the red-tailed hawk photo.

I just set aside a GN, The Contradictions (can't find the touchstone, but it's by Sophie Yanow), that got highly touted but bored the bejeesus out of me. When Stars Are Scattered got a well-deserved NBA nomination.

Off to work out. Hope you have a good one today.

>202 alphaorder: Thanks, Nancy. I think this is 3 Lifers with the scope so far. I hope to add a few more, as the waterfowl migration continues through the winter months.

>203 karenmarie: Morning, Karen and thanks. He sure was a beauty.

>204 jnwelch: Morning, Joe. Glad you like the images. I am itchin' to get to a GN, so I always appreciate the recs. Enjoy that workout, my friend.

Pretty widgets! And the American one is extra gorgeous with that irridescent green eyepatch. The Eaurasian has a handsome bronze head-scarf, and both are super dapper dudes.

Lounge about with Shuggie today. I am reading it again, and am just as gruntled and kempt.

Happy Sunny Saturday, Mark - and here's one for the start of
Off Beat Lifers:

My daughter opened the front door early this morning to call me
and in walked the neighbor's Little Red Hen!

Daughter picked it up from the back, carried it out to the path and
gave it a big handful of birdseed to thank her for that royal welcome.

>186 msf59:
I don't watch many movies, but I like to know about them. They are such a cultural touchstone for most American's. My internet went out last night so I was forced to watch TV and I watched an Avengers movie. I think it was the last one, so now I know what people are talking about when they refer to that one.

I like to read about the old classics and this book is somewhere between being an academic book and a pop culture book. The first essay in it was about the "place" of the American Western and about archetypes. There was a very interesting section in it about John Ford and his development as a director. I was totally unaware that he was a silent movie director!

The bulk of the first chapter was an essay on American manhood, and the place of the Western archetypes in modern American ideas of manhood. Academic type of stuff, but in this essay there was also some time spent on the use of music in the American Western and how Ford insisted that the studios commission new music for most of his movies. The use of music was a direct result of his training in the silent movie industry. There was also a section on Ford's use of the vast empty sky and how this image was returned to again and again in his movies. I have a feeling this is going to be a good book on movies.

I read quite a bit about movies and cinema. I read A. Scott Berg's biography Goldwyn. Girl: Marilyn Monroe, the Seven Year Itch, and the Birth of an Unlikely Feminist by Michelle Morgan a book about the business acumen of Marilyn Monroe and the formation of her own production company. Audrey and Givenchy: A Fashion Love Affair about the collaboration between the two of them on many of Hepburn's movies.

On my TBR list I have the newish book about the friendship of Henry Fonda and James Stewart. A biography of Hedy Lemarr. Another book about Marilyn Monroe and the biographies of Kathrine Hepburn by A. Scott Berg. I want to read that book about The Searchers by Glenn Frankel and the biography of the movie Casablanca. And this doesn't even cover all the titles I have collected on movies and music. I have about 4 biographies of Elvis on my list. The new Dolly Parton book, and the autobiographies of Loretta Lynn.

I also read about cinema around the world. I read Kim Jong-Il Production and it was one of the best movie books I have ever read. I have a book on the rip roaring Italian cinema scene of the 1960's somewhere in my house. There is so much to read about in the entertainment industry! I will never get it all read, but each book helps me understand a bit more about what I am seeing and what other people see in these movies.

>206 richardderus: Hooray for the "widgets"! Grins...They are sure "dapper dudes". Is "gruntled and kempt" mean you are enjoying Shuggie? Not far in but I like his style. He reminds me of John Boyne.

>207 m.belljackson: Hi, Marianne. Hooray for "off beat lifers" & little red hens. I was just bringing the trash out and I heard Sand Hills flying high over head, but did not see them.

I think the Booker panel chose very well with Shuggie Bain. It's a dream to read, and I see what you mean about the similarity of style to Boyne. They don't pull punches or add specious nonsense. Just tell that story and devil take the hindmost...some people are likely not going to appreciate the rougher side of Glasgow, I know, but it isn't misplaced or used like poverty porn. (Which is why I was no fan of Hillbilly Elegy.)

>90 msf59: I watched an episode of the last week at a friends house, it surprised me for being quite good. Plus, it has Captain Jack Randall in it (of Outlander) as Prince Phillip.

>210 richardderus: poverty porn//class porn...a fellow bookclubber called Three Women class porn, whereas I (potentially of a more middle class origin than her?) found it a very sensitive and real treatment of the three women's lives. Dammit! Is she right just cos she grew up in Essex? I am conflicted.

>194 msf59: Also, I wonder if Shuggie Bain is anything like that other Booker winner, by James Kelman, How Late It Was, How Late. Stream of consciousness colloquial talk- tough to crack but amazing once you're in!!

>211 LovingLit: ...a record of unmet needs, unspoken thoughts, disappointments, hopes and unrelenting obsessions...

Class porn. If you ain't worryin' more about how £15 will last to feed six for ten more days, you're rich.

I see each PoV has merit; neither is the whole picture nor are both mutually exclusive.

And NO! NO! NO! Kelman's gutter-wank is not like Shuggie's bleak, but honest, portrayal of poverty's social costs.

Hi Mark! This here's a Bell's sparrow spotted at Carrizo Plain National Monument by a guy I follow on Twitter:

>208 benitastrnad: Hi, Benita. It sounds like you have some promising film-related books on shelf. I enjoyed The Searchers: The Making of an American Legend. I also read the novel the book was based on, plus saw the film once again. A nice little trilogy. I also had a great time with Kim Jong-Il Production and it was a copy you had snagged for me.

>210 richardderus: I am so glad to hear that you enjoyed Shuggie Bain, RD. I am a 100 pages in and very impressed. As long as it doesn't get relentlessly bleak, like A Little Life, this will end up a very special read.

>211 LovingLit: Hi, Megan. Great to see you, stranger. Was this the first time you sampled The Crown or the first time you saw this recent season? I have not read How Late It Was, How Late, but Shuggie Bain is definitely not a "stream of consciousness" novel. It is more closely related to Angela's Ashes.

>212 richardderus: Ooh, I love the Bell's Sparrow, Richard. I will have to do some research...

You are on a roll with so many lifers checked off :)

Have a great upcoming Tuesday!

>215 figsfromthistle: Thanks, Figs. I had a nice "Lifer" stretch. I hope some more errant migrants blow off course.

^Our first measurable snow of the season. Maybe, 2 inches at most and it will probably be gone, after it turns to rain. My winter will be much different this year, snow not as much of a factor, which is a GOOD THING.

Not much activity at the feeders- One little guy flew off as I was taking the photo. I have the birdbath heater set up too. I just need to add more seed to the finch-feeder.

ETA- While getting more coffee- I spotted chickadees and housefinch, along with a downy w.p.

Happy Tuesday, Mark! Hmm, I wonder if your snow is headed my way. Right now it's chilly but sunny.
Oh, you are going to love watching a blizzard from the coziness of home knowing you have no reason to be out there.
Hurray for chickadee's, w.p's and housefinch. Thanks for the reminder to fill my feeders

‘Morning, Mark! Happy snowy Tuesday.

>217 msf59: Thanks for the photo. I love seeing the snow caps on birdfeeders… Excellent bird report too. I haven't seen a Downy or Hairy for a long time, but I'm not using the feeders on the other side of the house right now and that's where they were to be found.

Ugh, snow. No.

Shuggie ho!

Good morning, Mark, it's snowing here, too, this morning. A few inches so far. We really need the moisture and I have no where to go, so bring it on.

Usual birds at the feeders - house finches, goldfinches, juncos, nuthatches, chickadees (including two mountain chickadees). A little downy was eating the sunflower seeds, reminding me that there's only a bit of suet left and I need to replace it.

Enjoy your day!

I'm starting the section half of Day of the Jackal. I'm pretty sure that, despite the planning and preparations of Englishman code named Jackal, Charles de Gaulle isn't going to take the hit. Been reading roughly a story a day from Target Practice, a collection by Rex Stout.

I've gotten too caught up in scouring my usual internet haunts for tidbits about The Virus, about Biden, about that other guy, and my reading has taken the hit. (Unlike De Gaulle.) I just jotted down titles that I'd like to read before year's end. Probably can't/won't get them all. But still...

>218 Carmenere: Can you really picture Mark indoors, hunkered beside the fire, when the world is filled with lovely birdies, aching to be watched. And especially in the snow!

Hi Mark, I've enjoyed catching up with you, your books and your birds. You seem to be having a stellar time with each. Since it looks like our Christmas season is going to be a quiet one this year, I am saving The Crown and The Queen's Gambit for December. I am definitely adding Shuggie Bain to my reading list!

>217 msf59: Indeed Mark, no lugging heavy post in the snow for you anymore. I'm sure that is a relief.

>218 Carmenere: Hi, Lynda. Good to see you. Usually our weather moves east, but maybe your temps will be warm enough to avoid the snow. It is mostly rain now. Yes, blizzards will have a different meaning to me now and something I have no problem with it, moving forward. Glad I reminded you about those feeders.

>219 karenmarie: Hi, Karen. The snow on the ground won't last much longer, with the rise in temps and the continuing rain. Fortunately we get a regular downy visiting, along with an occasional red-bellied.

>220 richardderus: "Ugh, snow. No." I am with you there, Richard.

>221 Copperskye: Hi, Joanne. Glad you are getting some well-needed snow/precipitation. As you know, it probably will melt quickly. Love the feeder report and make sure you add that suet block. Grins...

>222 weird_O: Honestly, I don't remember if I have read Day of the Jackal but have read several of Forsyth's books, back in the day. I do remember seeing the excellent film version a few times though.

" Can you really picture Mark indoors, hunkered beside the fire, when the world is filled with lovely birdies, aching to be watched." Yeah, that is tough image to get my head around. Grins...

>223 DeltaQueen50: Hi, Judy. Only 3 months in and yes, books and birds are dominating my free time. I LOVE IT. The Crown and The Queen's Gambit should be perfect for your December TV viewing. Enjoy, my friend. Shuggie Bain has been excellent.

>224 Caroline_McElwee: Amen to that, Caroline. A big relief.

^The New York Times has picked their best 10 books of the year. Sadly, I have not read any of the NF picks but I have read 3 of the fiction choices. Hamnet would be my favorite off the list but I also really enjoyed the Bennett and McBride. I really want to get my mitts on the Millet and Homeland Ellegies, which I know Nancy loved. Anyone else have any thoughts?

https://www.nytimes.com/2020/11/23/books/review/best-books.html

I'm a late visitor to your thread, Mark. Love the Thomson topper. It sounds like you're having a wonderful, relaxing retirement. Now, if only I could learn to do that!

Afternoon, Mark - I missed morning. Your snow is happy making for me, so thanks for sharing. I got the book you posted in the mail today, so thanks for that, too. Hoping your Tuesday is full of fabulous, my friend!

>229 Familyhistorian: Hi, Meg. Great to see you. I figured you would love the Thomson topper. Yep, a relaxing retirement, is exactly how it has been unfolding, my friend.

>231 msf59: Hi, Mamie. Glad you got the book. Enjoy. I am having a kick back afternoon with the books. Snow has departed.

>2 msf59: I guess there's a line, beyond which is gratuitous, and up to is "bleak but honest portrayals". And that line is in different places for different people for different reasons (one of which is how much money you have/grew up with having).

>214 msf59: I had never seen an episode of The Crown before last week, and I might never again (given that I don't have Netflix). It was fun to watch, and I thought Gillian Anderson did a great job 'doing' Maggie Thatcher.

Boo to the snow! We're getting cold rain here - still better than snow for me. Good reading weather, although we've been running around and haven't done a lick of it today.

I did start The Invisible Life of Addie Larue yesterday, and I'm liking it so far. I read a sci-fi-er by this author years ago, and she's really grown in her writing since then, seems like.

I hope you're starting to set up for a good Thanksgiving, buddy.

>232 LovingLit: Which post were you referring to up there, Megan. You tagged # 2. Glad you enjoyed that episode of The Crown. I especially liked the early seasons of the young queen.

>233 jnwelch: Hi, Joe. Yep, what a cruddy day and more of the same tomorrow. No birding for the Warbler, but I should get in plenty of reading. Not familiar with The Invisible Life of Addie Larue but I am glad you are enjoying it.

Here's the Thanksgiving social distancing readathon: https://www.librarything.com/topic/326629.

>235 msf59: - Good one, Mark. But that map sure looks more red than blue, to my eyes. Isn't that wrong?

>236 SilverWolf28: I am in, Silver. Thanks for setting it up.

>237 jessibud2: I agree that US map looks uncomfortably red, Shelley, but most of those western states have lower populations, along with a few of the southern ones. I think these states have generally voted republican. It would be nice if we could start flipping more of them, like we did in GA.

Distracted from COVID-19, Attention Shifts to MIA Maiden from Land O’Lakes Butter Box

America mourns for the Indian
figure who knelt like a supplicant before dairy,
fatly blessed our milks, our cheeses,

anointed our lands & shores.
The Google tutorials surface—
the “boob trick:” score the box & fold to make

a window for her knees to jut through.
O our butter maiden
brought all the boys to the yard.

Twittersphere so prostrate with grief
petitions are launched for the Dairy Princess:
O our pat O Americana,

O our dab O Disneyesque,
O our dollop O Heritage.
The mourning procession bears witness:

Jolly Green Giant & Chicken of the Sea Mermaid,
Uncle Ben & Aunt Jemimah,
magically delicious leprechaun & Peter Pan—

even the Argo Cornstarch Maiden & Mazola
Margarine “you call it corn, we call it maize”
spokesIndian raise stalks in solidarity.

Mia, aptly named, our butter girl mascot,
the only Indian woman gone missing
that anyone notices, anyone cares about.

-Tiffany Midge From Poem-A-Day

‘Morning, Mark, and a happy Wednesday to you. Enjoy your feeder birds and books.

>235 msf59: 👍

>240 karenmarie: Morning, Karen. Quiet and dreary here. I have not seen a bird at the feeders either. Sighs...

Morning, Mark! All is quiet here, too, but not dreary. It's sunny and going to 78F. *sigh* You would probably be loving it, but I want me some cold.

>242 Crazymamie: Morning, Mamie! I don't need 78F but even 60F would be nice. Looks like I am stuck inside today.

I agree that even 60F would be nice. I would take 60F!

>235 msf59: Ha!! So very, very true. I like the concept and the execution and the reminder.

I don't blame you for staying indoors. UGH! It's Mamie's weather here, 55° or so with sunshine. Just in case you were thinking the rest of the country was suffering too, I wanted to...set your mind at ease.

Heh.

>244 Crazymamie: We agree! Yah!!

>245 richardderus: Hey, RD. I did run out for a couple of quick errands. It rained the entire time. Nice to be home and I am getting ready to hunker down with the books.

>239 msf59: Ouch! That one has a bite!

Ok, I seriously lost out in my youth - had no idea about the Land o’ Lakes maiden boob trick. Thankfully, YouTube has plenty of videos on it! 😂😂

>247 quondame: It sure does, Susan.

>248 drneutron: I watched the video too, Jim. Who thinks of these things?

You will love this Mark:

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/nov/26/charmed-in-lockdown-garden-b...

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours, Mark!
Our bird feeders were quite active yesterday. Chickadee's, tufted titmouse, 2 huge blue jays that scared everyone else away.

>250 Caroline_McElwee: I love the backyard lockdown, Caroline. The European Finches are especially beautiful. Thanks for the sharing the story with me.

>251 Carmenere: Happy Thanksgiving to you, Lynda. Love the feeder report. I wish we had more tufted titmouse, stopping by our feeders. Due to the dampness, not much happening at our place.

-Wild Turkey (Local Woods)

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone. Turkeys like their privacy, so they are not commonly seen in our immediate area but do pop up the further you move out of the urban areas.

Morning, Mark! Happy Thanksgiving! Gonna be wet here today, too.

Morning, Mamie and thank you. It is dry here today, so I may slip out for a bit. Happy Thanksgiving!

My apologies - you said "due to the dampness" up there, and I assumed that meant rain. Hoping you do get to slip out.

'Morning, Mark, and Happy Thanksgiving! Wet here, too, ugh weather at 62F now, going to get to 71F.

Happy Thanksgiving, Mark. I am sure retirement is among the things you are thankful for this year! :-)

>256 Crazymamie: Just overcast here this morning, Mamie. We may get some well-needed sunshine a bit later.

>257 karenmarie: Morning, Karen. Stay dry and have a lovely holiday.

>259 jessibud2: Thank you, Shelley and yes, I am quite thankful for many things including retirement.

"A poignant, intimate, funny, inspiring memoir—both a coming-of-age story and a meditation on creativity, devotion, and craft—from Bryan Cranston, beloved and acclaimed star of one of history’s most successful TV shows, Breaking Bad."

I mainly know Cranston from the outstanding crime show Breaking Bad. I heard great things about this memoir and thought it would make a perfect audio, especially with Cranston narrating. A couple of hours in and it has been excellent. I don't think I saw much LT activity on this one. It came out in 2016.

>253 msf59: Cool! They're really skittish birds, and can move really really fast despite not being able to fly. We had them in Texas's less-populated parts.

Have a good feed with pa-in-law, followed by the statutory nappage.

Happy Thanksgiving, Mark! Hope you and Sue and the kids are having a good one.

>261 msf59: Good for you! He seems like a smart, interesting guy. Niece Amy is in a show with him called Your Honor coming out soon, where she plays a detective. She's on the front page of yesterday's A & E section of the Tribune talking about it.

We're driving tomorrow to Pittsburgh, back on Sunday, so I'll be in touch haphazardly.

Happy Thanksgiving, Mark!

>253 msf59:

Happy Thanksgiving, Mark!

Our bird feeders have been continually enjoyed on into the early afternoon and the neighbor's visiting hens and rooster appreciated the extra treats.
Our only turkey is the memory of the Wild Turkey running down our driveway in the spring with her ten little ones - on toward the creek and the back forest.

Our Day got off to a Perfect Start with the long awaited return of our Two Fawns -
now grown to White Tailed Deer.

Born in Chicago, I love these rainy, rainy mornings turned to sunshine.

Happy Thanksgiving, Mark! I hope your weather improves. Cold and rainy here too.

>261 msf59: I really enjoyed this memoir Mark. Hope it is a hit with you. I watched a few 'Breaking Bad' after reading it. I'd seen him in a couple of movies before. I particularly liked 'Trumbo'.

>262 richardderus: Hey, RD. Actually wild turkeys can fly. They can also run and swim. Impressive birds for their large size. We had a nice time with the FIL.

>263 jnwelch: Happy Thanksgiving, Joe. I am enjoying the Cranston memoir. Have a great and safe trip to PA.

>264 katiekrug: Thanks, Katie.

>265 m.belljackson: Happy Thanksgiving, Marianne. I always enjoy those feeder reports, including the deer sightings.

>266 Familyhistorian: Thank you, Meg. It was a good day. Our weather was better today and will improve even more over the weekend.

>267 Caroline_McElwee: Thanks for chiming in on the Cranston memoir, Caroline. Only a few episodes of Breaking Bad? How could you resist not watching all of them? I did not see "Trumbo".

Happy Thanksgiving!

Hope your Thanksgiving was lovely Mark. I can't imagine that you're not enjoying your vacation immensely. We had just about the same weather as you today. The Cranston memoir sounds good.

I finished reading Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson this morning and now will devote my reading time fully to Wayne and Ford. I am 65 pages into this book and have just finished learning about Stagecoach.

This Brit wishes to express his thanks for the warmth and friendship that has helped sustain him in this group, Mark.

>270 SilverWolf28: Thanks, Silver!

>271 brenzi: Hi, Bonnie. We had a quiet but very nice holiday. Thanks. Yep, retirement has been great but you know that all ready, right? If you are a Cranston fan, you will particularly like his memoir.

>272 benitastrnad: Hi, Benita. I hope you enjoyed Just Mercy as much as I did. And hooray for Stagecoach. It really helped launch their careers, especially Wayne's.

>273 PaulCranswick: Thanks for the kind words, Paul. We had a nice, but quiet holiday with the FIL.

-Black Scoter (NMP)

"In North America, black scoters breed in western and southern Alaska, the Aleutian Islands and scattered areas in central and eastern Canada. Black scoters are among the most vocal of waterfowl species. Male black scoters are entirely black except for a yellow protuberance on the base of the bill and the gray lower surface of the flight feathers."

I had a Thanksgiving Day LIFER, yesterday. Another bird that is not seen often in our state. This was a male and six females. Quite a harem. Once again, my new scope helped identify them, since they were across the lake and actively feeding. This makes the third different scoter I have seen in the past month. Sweet.

'Morning, Mark, and happy Friday to you.

You've really got this Scoter thing going, don't you? Congrats on another lifer.

>275 msf59: Good catch! What an interesting waterfowl.

>278 alphaorder: Another lifer?! WOW! Congrats, Mark. Looking forward to when we can get back to birding together again and I can learn from you.

>275 msf59: Wow, Mark, a lifer again. How many now, since your retirement?

Goodness, a black Scotus! Should we call him Clarence?

Anyway, happy Friday and be grateful you're not Indigenous.

Geez, Mark. I think the last time I was here was last year. Ok, ok, it only seems that way.

Finished the Jackal; it end pretty much as I expected. In a hail of bullets. Merci!

I'm slowly reading The Hidden Life of Trees and short stories from the Rex Stout collection, Target Practice.

Right now I'm thinkin' Leftovers! Mmmmmmmmmmm.

>276 karenmarie: Thanks, Karen. Hooray for the scoter thing! I don't think I will be seeing any of those for awhile.

>277 quondame: Thanks, Susan. Waterfowl are so underrated.

>278 alphaorder: Thanks, Nancy. I hope next spring, will be a perfect time to back out birding, with my pal.

>279 FAMeulstee: Thanks, Anita. Not sure about an exact count on my "Lifers" since retirement, but I would not be surprised if it close to 10.

>280 richardderus: Hey, RD! Please no scoters named Clarence. Lets not ruin a fun thing, ok?

>281 weird_O: Hi, Bill. I don't think it has been that long since you have been by, so no worries. I am hoping that means you enjoyed The Day of the Jackal. I have not read The Hidden Life of Trees yet but it is on my list. I also think I have it saved on audio. Ooh, leftovers...

'Morning, Mark, and happy Saturday to you. Have fun solo birding and book reading. I'm really enjoying a mystery by an author I haven't read before, Rules for Perfect Murders by Peter Swanson, mentioned on Paul's thread. It was a second degree BB since apparently it was one of Hani's choices.

>284 karenmarie: Morning, Karen. Looks to be a very nice day. Our weather takes a sharp turn, early next week (cold temps) so I need to get out today. Glad you are enjoying your mystery .

Sounds like you are enjoying retirement! Hope you have a good weekend!

I hope this is your day to spend uninterrupted time with Shuggie Bain, Mark,. So worth it!

>286 ChelleBearss: Hi, Chelle. Great to see you. Yep, retirement is great just as I expected.

>287 richardderus: Hey, RD. I knocked out 20 pages of Shuggie before my hike, not I have a couple of hours ear-marked for it and may even finish it.

^From my hike this morning. Cool, but sunny. Not many birds seen, but it was nice to be on the peaceful trails, getting some fresh air and exercise. Now, for the books...

Mark - the next BLACK SCOTUS should be Barack Obama!

Terry Pratchett. Worth reading any of his books? How about Hogfather? It has been recommended as a holiday read. Have you read it?

I read the graphic version of Long Way Down today - I had listened to it on audio. The illustrations add to the powerful message.

My copy of Field Notes from an Unintentional Birder arrived today, so I will start that soon!

Mark, I long for the days when 181 unread posts would never get by me on your thread! 8 months and a few days to go.

I thought of you as we spent three nights and a couple days in northern Idaho, did a couple of hikes, and saw a variety of birds I could not identify. It was lovely but I wished I knew more.

I'm reading the second in the Sean Duffy series by Adrian McKinty and I wonder if you are familiar with this series. It's set in Belfast in 1982, during the Troubles. Good mystery, good background, good pacing.

>290 m.belljackson: Hooray, for the next BLACK SCOTUS! Obama would be an ideal pick, Marianne.

>291 weird_O: Hey, Bill. I think the only Pratchett I have read is Good Omens, his collaboration with Gaiman. I remember it being a lot of fun. I had not even heard of Hogfather.

>292 alphaorder: Happy Sunday, Nancy. I had also listened to Long Way Down on audio. I did not realize they had done a graphic version. Sounds good. And of course, Field Notes from an Unintentional Birder looks fantastic. I can't wait to hear your thoughts.

>293 EBT1002: Hi, Ellen. If your last 8 months go as quickly, as my last 8 months it will be here before you know it, my friend. I sure would love to hike and bird in northern Idaho. Sounds wonderful. I have not read any of the Sean Duffy series but thanks for putting it on my radar.

'Morning, Mark, and a happy Sunday to you. Enjoy as many of your Four Bs as possible today. *smile*

Morning, Karen. Yep, I will try to put the those four Bs into play today. Is the fourth the Bears? That might be the one I am least looking forward to. They play the Packers tonight.

>295 msf59: My sister and I watched this event with Jason Reynolds and his illustrator. Worth a look: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGjMNg_GMCQ

>298 alphaorder: Thanks, Nancy. I will try to circle back later and watch it.