"Alice decided to take a break from packing. She lit a cigarette, leaning back in one of the wicker chairs that were always slightly damp from the sea breeze. She glanced around at the cardboard boxes filled with her family's belongings, each glass and saltshaker and picture frame wrapped carefully in newspaper. There were at least a couple of boxes in every room of the house. She needed to make sure she had taken them all to Goodwill by the time the children arrived. This had been their summer home for sixty years, and it amazed her how many objects they had accumulated. She didn't want anyone to be burdened by the mess once she was gone."
Maine
by J. Courtney Sullivan
As I said in this week's Sunday Salon post, Maine by J. Courtney Sullivan is the book I've been craving all summer. Not a lot actually happens, but with multiple generations, family dynamics, a summer house, and the Maine coast, it doesn't matter one bit. Does this type of book appeal to you, or do you prefer a fast-paced plot?
Every Tuesday, Diane at Bibliophile by the Sea posts the opening paragraph (sometime two) of a book she decided to read based on the opening paragraph(s). Feel free to grab the banner and play along.
Oh yes, I must finally declare myself a fan of contemplative literature. (is that an adequate description?) I really like the almost random thoughts inside a character's head and then the big wow when it all comes together somehow. or not.
ReplyDeleteCare - Still waiting to see if there will be a big wow here or not, but I sure am enjoying the journey.
DeleteI LOVED this book...and in reading this opening, I want to dive into it again. It is a "quiet" book filled with layers of family stuff. And while I enjoy a fast-paced book now and then, I adore a book that unfolds at a slower pace, like summer days. Hope you enjoy it!
ReplyDeleteHere's MY TUESDAY MEMES POST
Laurel-Rain Snow - "And while I enjoy a fast-paced book now and then, I adore a book that unfolds at a slower pace, like summer days." Such a profound comment! Perhaps that is why I was craving such a book all summer... especially considering all the commotion around here the past few months. Thanks for visiting.
DeleteIt depends what sort of mood I am in , it is important to have variety in my reading. This sounds as if it could be a pleasant easy read.
ReplyDeleteLindyLouMac in Italy - This is a nice change of pace from my two most recent classic reads... guess I like variety, too!
DeleteI love books that feature multiple generations. I haven't read anything by Sullivan before though I do own one of her earlier books. Happy reading!
ReplyDeleteVasilly - If the rest of the book turns out to be as good as the first half, I may be seeking out her earlier books, too!
DeleteI was one of the twisted few that did NOT like this book. I don't mind contemplation, though, don't get me wrong. I just thought it was all a bit angsty and dysfunctional, and I kept waiting for something (anything) to happen.
ReplyDeleteSandy - Not at all! The amazon ratings are lower than I would have expected, so there is definitely some disagreement about the book's merit. Besides, I may be so exhausted from all that is happening here, that a 'quiet' book is the perfect medicine!
DeleteI love books like this--not a lot happens, except life! Reminds me of a Rosamunde Pilcher type of book, which are definitely comfort reads for me.
ReplyDeleteI love Maine anyway, so I'll have to look for this one to add to my shelf for when the book strikes.
JaneGS - Oh yes, Rosamunde Pilcher -haven't read her in years! This may not be quite as gentle as her books, but it's still a good family story. If you love Maine anyway, this is a must read.
DeleteI almost picked this one up yesterday but my book bag was full. I'll grab it next time I see it.
ReplyDeleteLinda - Especially with a library copy, you've got nothing to lose - give it a try!
DeleteIt really depends on my mood... right now, fast-paced books are my cup of tea, but sometimes a slower storyline with more depth is just what is needed. I hope you enjoy Maine!
ReplyDeleteChinoiseries - Mood has so much to do with my reading lately! For now, this is just perfect.
Deletehow interesting. I wonder what is going on. I'm sure I'd keep reading. kaye—the road goes ever ever on
ReplyDeleteKaye - Lots and lots of dysfunctional stuff happening, but I sure am enjoying it!
DeleteThis is exactly, exactly the kind of book I love...but I just couldn't get into this one. I'm convinced I was just in the mood for something different at the time. Very very glad you're enjoying it, though!
ReplyDeleteAudrey - That's surprising because I thought this would have been one that you'd love, too. Mood has so much to do with our reading enjoyment, doesn't it?
DeleteI like both types of books but find myself drawn more to this style. I almost bought this one from the sale table at B&N. I will have to read your final thoughts and then I just may go back and buy it!!!
ReplyDeleteStaci - I like both types, too, depending on my mood. Guess I really just need a quieter book now... hoping to finish this week.
DeleteI normally don't care for multi-generational stories, but I liked this one --audio version. enjoy!
ReplyDeleteDiane - Multi-generational stories have been a draw for me for as long as I can remember. I'm curious about the audio version now... will go listen to a sample at audible.
DeleteI am a sucker for multiple generations and family dynamics. I have this book on my TBR list.
ReplyDeleteNise' - If the second half is as good as the first, it will certainly have my highest recommendation!
DeleteI enjoyed this one. Hope you do too. Here's Mine
ReplyDeleteThought you might enjoy this one with the family dynamic between the female characters.
ReplyDeleteLisa - You were right! This was definitely the right book at the right time.
DeleteSounds intriguing. A luring first paragraph. BTW, re the package... I'm still waiting. The Post Office would likely take a couple of weeks. They like to train our patience. ;)
ReplyDeleteArti - It will be one week tomorrow.. hope it it arrives this week!
DeleteI wasn't terribly interested in this one until now. If it's a multi-generational saga (similar to Colony by Anne Rivers Siddons), I'm in! I may not get to it this year, but I'll definitely add it to my stacks for 2013.
ReplyDeleteLes - Colony is my favorite Anne Rivers Siddons novel and I couldn't help thinking of it as I read Maine! Must give it a reread one of these days...
DeleteI want to reread Colony, too! I'm glad to know that Maine reminded you of it. Now I'll definitely have to give it a read! :)
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