Welcome to The Monday Mention, a new, occasional feature at Lakeside Musing. After four years of blogging, it's finally time to admit that I don't always have a lot to say about every book I read. Most of those books, however, still deserve time in the spotlight. Monday Mentions may include brief thoughts on favorites (they're always harder to write about), mysteries, 'beach' reads, poetry collections, children's books, nonfiction, and more.
Let's get started...
Lots of Candles, Plenty of Cake also has the distinction of being the first book I have ever knowingly purchased twice on the same day. After downloading the audiobook, I drove off to collect my daughter (with all her belongings) at college and bring her home the summer. Before reaching my destination, I stopped at a Barnes & Noble along the way to purchase a hardcover copy. There were so many passages I wanted to go back and reread, I needed a print copy, too. This will likely be a favorite book of 2012.
My rating: 5 stars
I love this idea! Just the other day I was thinking I should do a catch up post at the end of the year, because there are plenty of books I didn't review but could still write a paragraph or two about.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Ana. I may end up including multiple books next time, too. So many books I want to mention before the end of the year...
DeleteThis is a great idea! I have this audio downloaded on my iPod and now really look forward to listening to it - thanks for the review!
ReplyDeleteBooksnyc - This was such a memorable audiobook. Now, I'm slowly working my way through the print edition and enjoying it very much!
DeleteI also love this idea. ... and I want to read this book (or listen to it) (or listen to it and then read it?) :)
ReplyDeleteAudrey - I'd recommend both!
DeleteGood idea, and it sounds like others feel the same! As far as the book is concerned, I really did love it. I especially found myself smiling and nodding over the part about girlfriends. She has such a way of observing things in life. I mean, most of the stuff in this book I KNEW, but is wonderful when it is summarized this way.
ReplyDeleteSandy - We all need our girlfriends, don't we?! It makes sad sometime that my best friend lives several hours away. I loved Qundlen's take on 'Life in the 50's'!
DeleteI like this idea too! and thanks for the reminder - I meant to look for this back when you first mentioned you were reading this.
ReplyDeleteLisa May - I really loved this book... hope you do, too!
DeleteGreat idea! This is how I review most of my books since I read so many and want to give a few thoughts about every one of them.
ReplyDeleteNise' - Thanks. I like reading shorter, concise reviews... so it's time to start writing them myself!
DeleteWhat a great idea! Sometimes I really love a book but don't have much to say about it too. I listened to half of this book before I had to return it. I found myself marking many passages.
ReplyDeleteVasilly- Thanks. Sometimes it seems that the more I like a book, the less I have to say about it.
DeleteI've been a big fan of Quindlen's for years as well. There hasn't been a book of hers that I haven't liked. I did have this one out from the library at one point but for some reason never got to it. After reading your thoughts it makes me want to pick up my own copy.
ReplyDeleteDarlene - Isn't Quindlen amazing? Hope you check this out from the library again, or buy your own copy (you're sure to want one after reading it!).
DeleteThis is a great idea JoAnn! I struggle with writing reviews for all the books I read these days as well--audiobooks are especially tough for some reason.
ReplyDeleteIt's been years since I've read anything by Quindlen but this sounds like one I should really pick up. Glad you loved it so much!
Trish - I think a shorter review style will really work better for me, especially with audiobooks. Quindlen has long been a favorite of mine, but it may be a few more years before you'll appreciate this one ;-)
DeleteExcellent idea for a short review, JoAnn! I think part of my problem with blogging is the backlog of reviews that is never ending! Since I use my blog as a reading journal, I want to record my thoughts for every book I read, but sometimes there's not a lot to say. This is perfect!
ReplyDeleteI gave my mom Quindlen's book and have been meaning to borrow it back from her. ;) Sounds like I need to listen to the audio and get my own copy so I can highlight my favorite passages. Thanks for the review and the new meme!
Happy Thanksgiving!!
Les - I'm starting to think that if I'm going to continue blogging, a shorter review style is a must. I've always loved reading/literature, but my background leans more toward science (I'm a pharmacist) and I've never really felt equipped to discuss books. This may be a good compromise.
DeleteThis one's going to appear on my Top Ten Tuesday list a week from now as one I wish Santa would bring me, partly because I've liked what I've heard about it but also because I knew you liked it so much you had to have it in print. Now, the chances of me getting a book are slim but I'll have that reminder for myself!
ReplyDeleteLisa - I was just thinking about that Top Ten Tuesday list, but I rarely receive books either. Maybe if I requested a couple of specific titles it could work. Either way, Quindlen's book is excellent!
DeleteIt's so true: sometimes you just don't have a lot to say a out a book which is still very good. I'll remember this event of yours as the year progresses (or turns into a new one).
ReplyDelete