Saturday, January 18, 2014

Gifts and Loans


I'm sure I talk, write and and read far too much about reading and books, but it is one of my many favorite things.  I am equally certain my enthusiasm can be annoying when I am gushing praise on something I believe everyone should want to read, and enjoy simply because I think it is the latest best thing I have read.  One of the benefits of this effusive babbling is I find myself among those of like mind, and who are eager to share their favorite reads.  I have in the last few weeks been the fortunate recipient of a few gifts and loans.

Some may find it presumptuous to select a book for another person; I think it is a true gift to be trusted with a favorite book of a friend.  I have a three day weekend...where do I begin?

How do you feel?
Do you enjoy others choosing a book for you, or do you prefer to
make the selection yourself?

Currently, I am reading The Orphan Master's Son, Adam Johnson


and E.M. Forester's Howard's End.


One is a favorite, one not so much.  I leave you to guess.
You know, I never speak badly of someone's masterpiece.

Enjoy your weekend,
and let me know what you have lined up to read
this weekend.

15 comments:

  1. Hello, Bonnie! Hope your New Year is starting out well. I had some time to read some blogs today and wanted to say hi. I have seen the movie Howard's End a gazillion times ( I love Merchant- Ivory movies) but have never actually read the book. May give it a try someday.

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  2. I think there are lots of people, like me, who can never have enough books so keep them coming. I'm very specific about the books I want although I'm happy to listen to recommendations. I doubt I'll read the book set in N.Korea. The awful situation there already disturbs me greatly.

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  3. I love it that you share your love of books/reading. I listen!
    I just purchased Tell The Wolves I'm Home . . . and in the mood to read.

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  4. I've been spending so much time blogging that I haven't been reading like I love to do. Winter is usually my season for reading. I miss it. I've had to check out some of these. I'm reading, Baby Proof by Emily Griffin. It's a fun, leisure book for the 30 somethings, but I like something light once in a while.

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  5. I see that you will enjoy your long weekend very much, Bonnie

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  6. The favourite must surely be 'Howard's End'! I read it, and wallowed in it, first as a teenager and was so upset about poor Leonard Bast. I share the same feelings about property as Ruth Wilcox and am thrilled to be friendly with the family who bought my parents home, able to walk through the doorway with a shouted 'hello'.

    I prefer to choose my own books or be given those that have been recommended by friends who share the same tastes. I've received my fair share of 'random' books that often disappoint.

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    1. Yes, I do enjoy Howard's End. I've read it a few times. This time I am listening to the audio while I knit.

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  7. Happy long weekend, Bonnie. They always fly by too swiftly. May you be snug and warm.

    Choosing my own books is definitely my style. Duds and keepers both along the way. I am a sucker for pretty cover art and endorsements by writers I’ve read and liked. I am going to guess Howards End is not your cup of tea this weekend. Nothing wrong with putting one back and giving it another chance for a summer read.

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  8. Although I prefer to choose my own books, those I read are often the recommendations of others.

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  9. If someone knows me well, I trust them to choose a good book for me - but they have to know my tastes well! Otherwise, I'd rather pick one up myself.

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  10. Hi Bonnie, first...congratulations on becoming a grandma! You must be so excited...I can't wait to hear all the stories. :)

    Sounds like you have some good reading...I do appreciate recommendations on books but I rarely read any non-fiction and I don't know too many people that also enjoy the same type of reading. I wish I did. Do you belong to any book clubs? I would love to join one.

    have a wonderful long weekend. xo

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  11. Dear Bonnie - I generally choose my own reading but from time to time I find myself reading something that someone has given me to read. Like you a three day week-end found me digging into a few books. I am especially fond of the who done it types. Take care and have a great day.

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  12. Hello Bonnie, I've read Howard's End but not the other. I love book recommendations, it so often means you try an author that you might not otherwise have found. Jane xx

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  13. I love book recommendations Bonnie and will gladly take any that are passed onto me. I also enjoy picking out my own..so you can see, I am easy to please! I spotted The Orphan Master's Son at the airport and wondered about it. My last two reads... The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt and The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarty. I enjoyed both, but if I had to recommend just one I would say The Goldfinch. I have my eye on "Under the Wide and Starry Sky" by Nancy Horan..

    " In 1876, Robert Louis Stevenson's heart was stolen by Fanny Osbourne, a divorcée 10 years older (oh, the scandal!). "

    Romance and scandal...I'm in!

    Sending warm wishes from Saigon...

    Jeanne xx

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