The Seasonal Reading Challenge discussion

Rae wrote: "I haven't been able to look at every single post (there have been quite a few, haha) so this may have been answered already, but:

for task 5.1 (Our Children Are Our Future), would sister work? I w..."

I think it has to be son, daughter, child, children. I'm pretty sure that Cynthia already said brother and sister wouldn't work for this one :(

Would The Heroines work for 10.7, the superhero task? I'm not sure the heroines are the type you were going for...

Thanks!

For task 15.4 -- Read a Science Fiction Novel --- Does paranomal count as science fiction? I'm thinking specifically of Guilty Pleasures by Laurell K. Hamilton.

Sorry if this has been asked and answered on this thread. I'm only about 175 posts behind here.

Thanks!

Krista wrote: "For task 15.4 -- Read a Science Fiction Novel --- Does paranomal count as science fiction? I'm thinking specifically of Guilty Pleasures by Laurell K. Hamilton.

Sor..."

i would think paranormal would be considered fantasy, not science fiction.

Bridgit wrote: i would think paranormal would be considered fantasy, not science fiction.

Definitely agreed. I've read that book and there was nothing terribly scientific about it.

Guilty Pleasures is really good though, you could read it for the first in a series (if that counts for you) or two word title...I've read the whole series so far and the first 6 or so are really good, if you like vampires and the like.

Would Dragonquest by Anne McCaffrey be okay? Wikipedia lists it as science fiction/fantasy and the author has been inducted into the Science Fiction Hall of Fame. I've read the first book in the series and I guess I could see it being classified as either.

Katie, the Pern novels would work. And here's the reason: McCaffrey's most famous works are the Dragonriders of Pern series. These are set on an Earth colony which has reverted to medieval times but also produced genetically engineered dragons. These dragons are flown by elite "dragonriders" who communicate telepathically with their dragons, and defend Pern against pernicious "threads" which cross space periodically from a nearby Oort Cloud and threaten to destroy all vegetation on Pern.


It's the genetically engineered which introduces a scientific element that makes it science fiction. Plus probably using the dragons to cross space ;)



If you're still hesitant, you could read her other series -- The Brain & Brawn Ship series. The stories of this series deal with the various adventures of 'shellpersons'—people who as young children or infants have had to be hardwired into a life support system, with sensory input and motor nerves tied into a computer. They serve as starship pilots or colony administrators while paying off their debt for education and hardware—and then in whatever capacity they choose, as free agents.

Tanja wrote: "Katie, the Pern novels would work. And here's the reason: McCaffrey's most famous works are the Dragonriders of Pern series. These are set on an Earth colony which has reverted to medieval times bu..."

Fabulous!

Beth(MN) wrote: "Bridgit wrote: i would think paranormal would be considered fantasy, not science fiction.

Definitely agreed. I've read that book and there was nothing terribly scientific about it.

"

Hmmmm -- I didn't realize that Sci-Fi had to be SCIENTIFIC. I thought it was more based on alternate realities, fantasy, or futuristic works. I don't read this genre much (could you tell...) so that's why I'm asking Cynthia for the clarification.

Katie wrote: "Would Dragonquest by Anne McCaffrey be okay? Wikipedia lists it as science fiction/fantasy and the author has been inducted into the Science Fiction Hall of Fame. I've read the first ..."

I own this book Best Military Science Fiction of the 20th Century, and included in the anthology is McCaffrey's Dragonrider. So I would think it would count.

Krista wrote: "Hmmmm -- I didn't realize that Sci-Fi had to be SCIENTIFIC. I thought it was more based on alternate realities, fantasy, or futuristic works. I don't read this genre much (could you tell...) so that's why I'm asking Cynthia for the clarification. "

No, I know. I'm not a sci-fi reader either...but I would bet a butt ton of money on the fact that science fiction and fantasy are 2 wildly different genres. I'm with you on the alternate realities and I can assume there might be some crossover between the two genres, but they are still pretty different.

A vampire strip club is definitely fantasy (Guilty Pleasures being the name of the strip club). But you're right, Cynthia does have the last say since it's one of her tasks. :)

Krista wrote: "Beth(MN) wrote: "Bridgit wrote: i would think paranormal would be considered fantasy, not science fiction.

Definitely agreed. I've read that book and there was nothing terribly scientific abou..."


Krista - i am more of a fantasy reader than a sci-fi reader myself, but sci-fi is definitely not JUST scientific. It is aliens and outerspace and alternate realities, time travel, futuristic stuff, cool technologies, etc.

According to wikipedia: It differs from fantasy in that, within the context of the story, its imaginary elements are largely possible within scientifically-established or scientifically-postulated laws of nature

I take that to mean - not imaginary creatures like vampires or werewolves or fairies or jumping into books like Jasper Fforde novels, etc.

Hope that helps a bit...

Teresa wrote: "Sara wrote: "Cynthia, I need to reread Airhead by Meg Cabot before I read its sequel, and so I'm trying to fit it in. I don't want to give too much away about the plot, but the main..."

I think I will do the ABC thing, actually... Thanks!

And to go along with the conversation above, there really is a fine line between sci-fi, fantasy, paranormal. I think Orson Scott Card said it best:

"In discussing the ways to differentiate between science fiction and fantasy, Orson Scott Card recommended looking at the covers – if there are bolts and rivets it’s science fiction, if there are bushes it’s fantasy."

:) But yes, sci-fi will generally have a sciency base or be in space (aliens, spaceships). Lots of metal finishes. Fantasy will generally be medieval-like with lots of rolling countryside (and bushes) and different species (ogres, elves, hobbits, dragons, etc.). Paranormal is based in real world with some tweaks, like vampires or werewolves living among us, or have a character has a superhuman power.

Beth(MN) wrote: "Krista wrote: "Hmmmm -- I didn't realize that Sci-Fi had to be SCIENTIFIC. I thought it was more based on alternate realities, fantasy, or futuristic works. I don't read this genre much (could you ..."

Yep, that does help. I guess I didn't realize that there was such a big distinction between Sci/Fi and Fantasy. I was thinking that Fantasy was a subgenre of Sci/Fi.

Oh well, if Cynthia doesn't approve it for this slot, I can use it for the two-word title task.

Thanks guys for helping to educate me!

People always lump science fiction and fantasy together, and I never know why... Although I'd say Star Wars is a good example of one that crosses the genre boundaries. It's in space, yet it has a very distinct fantasy vibe about it...

Krista wrote: "Beth(MN) wrote: "Bridgit wrote: i would think paranormal would be considered fantasy, not science fiction.

Definitely agreed. I've read that book and there was nothing terribly scientific abou..."


This is all fuzzy to me too; ) According to wikipedia

Science fiction is a genre of fiction. It differs from fantasy in that, within the context of the story, its imaginary elements are largely possible within scientifically-established or scientifically-postulated laws of nature (though some elements in a story might still be pure imaginative speculation). Exploring the consequences of such differences is the traditional purpose of science fiction, making it a "literature of ideas".[1:] Science fiction is largely based on writing entertainingly and rationally about alternate possibilities[2:] in settings that are contrary to known reality.and Stories that involve discovery or application of new scientific principles, such as time travel or psionics, or new technology, such as nanotechnology, faster-than-light travel or robots, or of new and different political or social systems (e.g., a dystopia, or a situation where organized society has collapsed)[5:]
science fiction

These may include:

A setting in the future, in alternative timelines, or in a historical past that contradicts known facts of history or the archeological record
A setting in outer space, on other worlds, or involving aliens[3:]
Stories that involve technology or scientific principles that contradict known laws of nature[4:]

fantasy is Fantasy is a genre that uses magic and other supernatural forms as a primary element of plot, theme, and/or setting. Fantasy is generally distinguished from science fiction and horror by the expectation that it steers clear of scientific and macabre themes, respectively, though there is a great deal of overlap between the three (which are subgenres of speculative fiction).

In popular culture, the genre of fantasy is dominated by its Medievalist form, especially since the worldwide success of the The Lord of the Rings and other Middle-earth related books by J. R. R. Tolkien. In its broadest sense however, fantasy comprises works by many writers, artists, filmmakers, and musicians, from ancient myths and legends to many recent works embraced by a wide audience today.


paranormal is Paranormal romance is a sub-genre of the romance novel. A type of speculative fiction, paranormal romance focuses on romance and included elements beyond the range of scientific explanation, blending together themes from the genres of traditional fantasy, science fiction, or horror. Paranormal romance may range from traditional category romances, such as those published by Harlequin Mills & Boon, with a paranormal setting to stories where the main emphasis is on a science fiction or fantasy based plot with a romantic subplot included. Common hallmarks are romantic relationships between humans and vampires, shapeshifters, ghosts, and other entities of a fantastic or otherworldly nature.

Beyond the more prevalent themes involving vampires, shapeshifters, ghosts, or time travel, paranormal romances can also include books featuring characters with psychic abilities, like telekinesis or telepathy.

Paranormal romance has its roots in Gothic fiction. Its most recent revival has been spurred by turn of the century technology, e.g. the internet and electronic publishing. Paranormal romances are one of the fastest growing trends in the romance genre.[1:]


clear as mud right? LOL because if you read the whole article you could argue they are 1 and the same.

"In discussing the ways to differentiate between science fiction and fantasy, Orson Scott Card recommended looking at the covers – if there are bolts and rivets it’s science fiction, if there are bushes it’s fantasy."

HAHA!!!!! Bolts vs. bushes, that's clever.

15.7 Does roller derby count as a sport? Please tell me yes. I'm dying to read Derby Girl. Thanks! :)

Sara wrote: "15.7 Does roller derby count as a sport? Please tell me yes. I'm dying to read Derby Girl. Thanks! :)"I'll take roller-derby but remember you have to be able to watch an actual roller-derby match or participate in it yourself to complete the task

Katie wrote: "Would Dragonquest by Anne McCaffrey be okay? Wikipedia lists it as science fiction/fantasy and the author has been inducted into the Science Fiction Hall of Fame. I've read the first ..."Dragonquest would be both so I'll take it

Krista wrote: "For task 15.4 -- Read a Science Fiction Novel --- Does paranomal count as science fiction? I'm thinking specifically of Guilty Pleasures by Laurell K. Hamilton.

Sor..."No paranormal would be it's own category separate from sci-fi.

AmyMK wrote: "Would The Heroines work for 10.7, the superhero task? I'm not sure the heroines are the type you were going for...

Thanks!"That's fine - and it's a good book - hope you enjoy.

Rae wrote: "I haven't been able to look at every single post (there have been quite a few, haha) so this may have been answered already, but:

for task 5.1 (Our Children Are Our Future), would sister work? I w..."No>

Liz wrote: "15.4. Science fact & fiction, do social science books works, such as Traffic Why We Drive the Way We Do?

Thanks!"Social science is fine

Is there a way to let us know when the tasks list is updated? I happened upon another add when I was just checking help files. I'd hate to miss a task because I missed a revision on a given day.

I have a couple of questions:
(1) Would Jacob Have I Loved work for the sea task?
(2) Would Rebel Angels work for the prophecy task?
(3) For the Hispanic Heritage task, does Mexico count? If so, would His Favorite Wife Escape from Polygamy work because it is set in Mexico?
I think that is all for now! Thanks!!!

Kathryn wrote: "I have a couple of questions:
(3) For the Hispanic Heritage task does Mexico count? If so, would His Favorite Wife Escape from Polygamy work because it is set in Mexico?
..."

Copying directly from Task 10.4 - Hispanic Hisory:
"...Five Latin American Countries (Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, And Nicaragua)/ In Addition,Mexico and Chile ...Reead A Book Written By An Author From One Of Those Countries Or That Takes Place In One Of Those Countries Or A Non-Fiction Book About One Of Them.

I haven't looked at the specific book you posted, but if it takes place in Mexico, then yes -- it would work for this task. (IMHO)

Kathryn wrote: "I have a couple of questions:
(1) Would Jacob Have I Loved work for the sea task?
(2) Would Rebel Angels work for the prophecy task?
(3) For the Hispanic Heritage task..."It doesn't seem as if the character actually travels at sea in Jacob Have I Loved from the description so I'm going to say to say no - if someone has read it and knows otherwise please let me know and I'll reverse my decision.

Jennifer wrote: "Is there a way to let us know when the tasks list is updated? I happened upon another add when I was just checking help files. I'd hate to miss a task because I missed a revision on a given day."The task list is complete now accept for the midway which won't be posted until mid-October.

Thank you. Now, to concentrate on getting some of these tasks done. :D
(If anyone needs caffeine, I've an IV drip in the back. ;) )

Does anyone know whether I am able to use Brick Lane by Monica Ali as a title with a place noun in it for Cait's task as Brick Lane is a real road in London?

Oh and I don't suppose Memoirs of a Geisha would fit for the coming of age task?

Thanks!

Yes, I would say Brick Lane is a 'place', definitely!

Alice wrote: "Does anyone know whether I am able to use Brick Lane by Monica Ali as a title with a place noun in it for Cait's task as Brick Lane is a real road in London?

Oh and I don't suppose Memoirs of a..."Yes Memoirs of a Geisha would be fine for the coming-of-age task

Fantastic that's fitted in two more of my tbr books!

Okay, I've decided to move The Host to the Science Fiction task. (From the 'Teacher & Student task)
Thanks for helping me get a better handle on Sci Fi vs. Fantasy.

Cynthia, my next question to you is about the 'Student' portion of task 15.10.

Could I read A Great and Terrible Beauty for the student portion of this task? I've looked at the blurb on the back of this book and it really seems like it would fit the task.

The heroine/main character is 16, and going to England to enroll in school there. After enrollment she is shunned by other students. (She sounds like a student to me from the blurb...)

Cynthia, can I get a ruling on this from you? I see that it is on your READ shelf.

Thanks!

Krista wrote: "Okay, I've decided to move The Host to the Science Fiction task. (From the 'Teacher & Student task)
Thanks for helping me get a better handle on Sci Fi vs. Fantasy.

Cynthia, my ..."Yes that's fine

Cynthia wrote: "Krista wrote: "Okay, I've decided to move The Host to the Science Fiction task. (From the 'Teacher & Student task)
Thanks for helping me get a better handle on Sci Fi vs. Fantasy.

Cynthia, my ..."Yes that's fine..."

Thanks! - I appreciate the big job you've taken on here. You do keep us all headed in the right direciton. :-)

Cynthia, for the posting tasks part, do I need to post the newest books I've read as the "newest post" or can I just edit the post I already have and will you see the changes?
Thanks

Julie wrote: "Cynthia, for the posting tasks part, do I need to post the newest books I've read as the "newest post" or can I just edit the post I already have and will you see the changes?
Thanks
"

Julie, you should create a new post in the "FALL CHALLENGE 2009 COMPLETED TASKS" thread every time you claim points for a task. It's much easier to see a new post than to go back and check every single person's list a dozen (or a hundred) posts back. Don't forget to include the task, the book, & any other requirements necessary for the task.

Happy reading!

Julie wrote: "Cynthia, for the posting tasks part, do I need to post the newest books I've read as the "newest post" or can I just edit the post I already have and will you see the changes?
Thanks
"Just to reiterate what Liz said - I do not go back and check old posts unless there is a discrepancy with what I have and what you have - so yes please start a new post for any finished tasks you want to claim points for. You don't have to post them individually - if you want to complete a few tasks and then post that's fine. Now if you want to keep a list and strike through, or otherwise mark tasks you've completed for your own knowledge then you can put it in the PLANS thread in the Fall Folder.

Thanks!

Would the book The Baby Thief The Untold Story of Georgia Tann, the Baby Seller Who Corrupted Adoption for 5:4?

it is not fiction but it is a book about a woman in Tennessee who was selling children for adoption. Any guidance would be helpful! THANKS

Ebostdorff wrote: "Would the book The Baby Thief The Untold Story of Georgia Tann, the Baby Seller Who Corrupted Adoption for 5:4?

it is not fiction but it is a book about a woman in Tennessee who was..."Yes the adoption task can be fiction or non-fiction so that book would be fine.

Cynthia, Can we count Olive Kitteridge A Novel in Stories for a teacher task? Her character is a retired teacher. Any guidance is helpful, thanks!

Sara☺ wrote: "Cynthia, Can we count Olive Kitteridge A Novel in Stories for a teacher task? Her character is a retired teacher. Any guidance is helpful, thanks!"The character needs to be be currently teaching so no.

Cynthia wrote: "Sara☺ wrote: "Cynthia, Can we count Olive Kitteridge A Novel in Stories for a teacher task? Her character is a retired teacher. Any guidance is helpful, thanks!"The character need..."

Thanks Cynthia!

For the 5.1 Task, can we use a book that has the word "girl" in the title, instead of daughter.

Rita wrote: "For the 5.1 Task, can we use a book that has the word "girl" in the title, instead of daughter."No only the words listed count

Cait wrote: "Katie wrote: "Would Dragonquest by Anne McCaffrey be okay? Wikipedia lists it as science fiction/fantasy and the author has been inducted into the Science Fiction Hall of Fame. I've r..."

Just want to weigh in on the Science Fiction vs. Fantasy. Orson Scott Card has said that if you look at the cover and it has bolts, it's Science Fiction, but if it has unicorns it's Fantasy. This works pretty well as a rule of thumb.

Normally, if the blurb mentions dragons, magic (Fantasy) is involved. However, McCaffrey's Pern series, even though the society is mideval in tone, was conceived and written as Science Fiction. It is a "lost space colony" series.

Kathryn wrote: (2) Would Rebel Angels work for the prophecy task?..."

Looks like this series is all good for Fortune Telling (prophecy) because of the "chosen one" theme.

Would this book: [image error]
count as a 1 word title or 3 word title?

Alyssa wrote: "Would this book:[image error]
count as a 1 word title or 3 word title? "

It's a 3-word title, and the individual volumes have subtitles.

9. Coming Of Age Or All Grown Up (And Then Some) – Explore Stories Told From The Perspective Of A Character From One Of Two Opposite Ends Of The Age Spectrum By
• Reading A Coming Of Age Novel.
OR
• A Novel Where The Main Character Is A Senior Citizen.

Would the younger "opposite end" of a character be confined to a child, or would the age of 16 for the main character(s) of the story meet the task requirement?

Shaun wrote: "9. Coming Of Age Or All Grown Up (And Then Some) – Explore Stories Told From The Perspective Of A Character From One Of Two Opposite Ends Of The Age Spectrum By
• Reading A Coming Of Age Novel.
OR
..."It depends what book do you have in mind because just because a book has a teen or child involved doesn't mean that it is a coming-of-age story.

I have another couple of questions...

(1) For the 1, 2, 3 word task, would the word "the" count as a word? It is somewhat difficult to find a one word title that doesn't have "the" in front (i.e. The Chosen, The Promise, The Husband, The Chamber, etc).

(2) For the Person, Place, Thing task, could Sunday's at Tiffany's count as a Place thing, since it is refering to the location, Tiffanys?

(3)For scary adjective, would Nightmare count? Or Dead? or Dying? or Dark?

(4) For the home/work assignment, would it work if it was kind of combined with another word, like "homecoming"?

I apologize if these questions have already been asked. I haven't had time to go through and read all 11 pages before I joined this group! Thanks for everything, Cynthia!!!