THE JAMES MASON COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB discussion

Alright, I have a To Kill a Mockingbird story. When I was a teenager I worked in a bookstore owned by my best friend (and former high school teacher). A man who worked on the railroad came in (a regular customer) and asked that I recommend something, so I gave him a copy of To Kill a Mockingbird. He returned a week later raving about the book (naturally, who wouldn't?) and asked that I recommend another. I handed him a Carson McCuller book, either The Member of the Wedding or The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter. Anyway, he turned his nose up. I asked what was wrong and he informed me that he didn't read books written by women!!! He had no clue that Harper Lee was (and remains) a woman. He was shocked when I told him and said he'd been silly. However, he left with Truman Capote's In Cold Blood.

Great story, Ivan. His loss. I was watching the film version of "The Heart is a Lonely Hunter" and my younger sister (she was 19, I was 21) came into the room and scolded me. She couldn't understand why I always watched so much "sad junk" for entertainment! Her loss.

Jeannette wrote: "Great story, Ivan. His loss. I was watching the film version of "The Heart is a Lonely Hunter" and my younger sister (she was 19, I was 21) came into the room and scolded me. She couldn't unders..."

agree- great story!! Ivan
geel bad for someone who wont read any books by females since they are the best mystery writers of all time- Christie, Marsh, Sayers, Tey, Allingham ect ect ect

Roy wrote: "I am currently reading, The Kite Runner. I am generally more of a thriller, horror, suspense, action kind of guy. But I also love to read stories about people and how life is in their culture. Cult..."

Funny, i am very similar to you as far as my reading tastes are concerned, and i also enjoyed that book very much. when i write, i try to introduce the reader to a particular culture, but in subtle ways, so that when you are done reading the story, not only you have enjoyed the action and what's happened to the characters, but also you realize that now you know a lot about the place's culture, politics, social relations and history, without making a conscious effort of learning about it.

just finished Intervention by Robin Cook- a very great read as well as informative!

The Fountainhead. Because it is shorter than Atlas Shrugged.

Ivan, are you aware that Harper Lee did a lot of work on In Cold Blood? Dill in To Kill a Mocking bird is (was) Truman Capote. Ms. Lee and he knew each other as children. She helped him with the interviews (as you can imagine Mr. Capote didn't do well in a small Kansas town. She was also involved in organizing the book. I heard in an interview with one of her "biographers" that she was fairly hurt by Capote's not giving her more recognition on the book.

Rick wrote: "just finished Intervention by Robin Cook- a very great read as well as informative!"

Dear Rick,
Happy Sunday. Did you receive my package yet? just want to make sure! ;-)
delphine

Mike wrote: "Ivan, are you aware that Harper Lee did a lot of work on In Cold Blood? Dill in To Kill a Mocking bird is (was) Truman Capote. Ms. Lee and he knew each other as children. She helped him with the in..."

Yes - to all that. I'm a Capote freak and have read lots about him as well as most of what he wrote. I think he was a genius writer. However, I don't think that I would have liked him personally. He wrestled with a lot of personal demons. He was abandoned by both parents and sent to live with relatives (who lived near Harper Lee). Later he was sent to boarding school, and then lived with his mother and her new husband Joe Capote. Always overtly effminate (there wasn't a closet big enough for Truman), Capote's homosexuality was a source of disappointment to his mother.

It's my feeling that this slight of Lee by Capote adversely impacted their relationship. If I understand correctly, they remained friends, but never shared the same level of intimacy. I honestly believe Capote was unreasonably jealous of the fact that Nell won the Pulitzer for her one and only novel.

There was a well documented fued between him and Gore Vidal for decades (Vidal even sued - and won); Vidal caught him in a number of lies and loved calling him out in front of their mutual friends, which drove Capote crazy. They were absolute opposites. Vidal was a beloved child of accomplished affluent parents, while Truman Persons came from very common stock. Vidal was erudite, quick witted and a wonderful raconteur, while Capote, also a great racontuer, was too often bitchy and catty [Vidal was more Jack Parr, while Capote was more Joan Rivers:]. Add to these facts that Vidal was blessed with matinee idol good looks, while Truman was, well, not. However, Capote was the more talented writer - a genius. I don't say this to detract from Vidal - he is a very fine, enormously talented writer (I've read eight or nine of his books and count Myra Breckinridge among my all-time favorites).

Yes that was my understanding about Lee and Capote. She won the Pulitzer so young and the biographer I heard (I tracked the book down later, but have forgotten which bio it was) agreed that Capote had trouble dealing with it. I was never a big fan of either Capote or Vidal. They could both sneer at me equally I suppose :). Anyway, like many I regret that Ms. Lee never published another novel (she did have one started and worked on). I suppose that when your first novel is To Kill a Mockingbird, where do you go? I gather it's been difficult for her, she's a bit of a recluse (of course she'd be about 84 this month I guess.)

Mike wrote: "Yes that was my understanding about Lee and Capote. She won the Pulitzer so young and the biographer I heard (I tracked the book down later, but have forgotten which bio it was) agreed that Capote ..."

I have a bias toward the work of both men. Breakfast at Tiffany's is my favorite book of all-time. Three short stories are included in the volume I have, among them A Christmas Memory (another favorite which Capote adapted for television. He won an Emmy, as did Geraldine Page. I watch it every Christmas - it's a tradition). I'm also quite fond of The Grass Harp, The Muses Are Heard and In Cold Blood. His writing touches my heart, it speaks to my most secret self. I also gravitate to the works of Tennessee Williams and Carson McCullers, but the only writer other than Capote to penetrate as deeply is the poet Edna St Vincent Millay.

Vidal is different. I grew up in a cow town in central California, a gay adolescent in the late 70s early 80s. The City and the Pillar: A Novel was a revelation for me. I hadn't yet read anything like it. I later found Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin and Tales of the City by Armistead Maupin, which I hid in plain site because no one in my house read books but me. I (much) later read Vidal's Edgar Box mysteries, The Judgment of Paris, The Best Man, the film Suddenly Last Summer, Palimpsest: A Memoir and the wickedly delightful and inspired Myra Breckinridge.

"I think that every reader on earth has a list of cherished books as unique as their fingerprints....I think that, as you age, you tend to gravitate towards the classics, but those aren't the books that give you the same sort of hope for the world that a cherished book does."
— Douglas Coupland.

"The best moments in reading are when you come across something - a thought, a feeling, a way of looking at things - that you'd thought special, particular to you. And here it is, set down by someone else, a person you've never met, maybe even someone long dead. And it's as if a hand has come out, and taken yours."
— Alan Bennett.

So then, these are the books that spoke to me, the hands that reached out for mine, and I count them among those I cherish. Maybe not classics, but cherished all the same.

I know we reserve the word "classic" for certain groups of "things" (be they books, movies, music etc.) usually these are older and "approved" by "authorities". In the real sense I believe we all can have our own list of "classics"; that is things that speak to us. If we (any of us) truly like a book or film or piece of music then that is something loved, cared for, cherished, or appreciated and it really doesn't effect that if someone else doesn't share the same feeling for "whatever" it is. Just as I was never touched by either of these authors I'm sure there are books (and therefore writers) who have touched me that you would feel no affinity for.

Just life. The best we can do is share and sometimes we'll find someone else who is either on or close to the same page we are in our appreciation of said literature, art, etc.

Good comments from Mike and Ivan. What constitutes a classic is in the "eye of the beholder" to steal a phrase. That's what makes this group so interesting.....we all have our "classics" list and can learn from each other and possibly find another "classic" for our own list.
Speaking of classic, which this isn't, I just finished "Sherlock Holmes, The Hidden Years" and reviewed it on my home page. It's a diverting read as long as you try to forget the Conan Doyle stories (not likely). Not bad, not good, but not a waste of time either. Now how is that for being ambiguous?

Roy wrote: "I am currently reading, The Kite Runner. I am generally more of a thriller, horror, suspense, action kind of guy. But I also love to read stories about people and how life is in their culture. Cult..."

I picked up the Kite Runner for the same reason, I enjoy reading/learning about other cultures in the guise of a novel. I also read A Thousand Splendid Suns by the same author and found it to be a superior book, you may want to give that one a go. I'm in the middle of an asian kick right now, all because I want to now more about that part of the world. Should total about twenty books when I'm done...(I'm a little ocd...) Happy Reading everyone!

I'm currently reading:
Number The Stars by Lois Lowry for bookclub
The Blue Sword by Robin Mckinley
And just finished listening to The Great Influenza.

Right now I'm reading Bone Crossed by Patricia Briggs, to be followed by her latest, Silver Borne. I really like this sort of crossover urban fantasy/paranormal mystery genre.

I am now currently reading my first Jane Austen book, Persuasion. Thought it was time to give Jane a whirl.

Besides writing my own YA novels, I read tons, especially YA so you will always see YA books on my goodreads reading list... At this moment, I'm most looking forward to reading Sebastian Junger's WAR, which I think will hit the NYTBS list! Why would a peace lover like me want to read a book about war? Well, I think this book will change the way the world sees what's happening in Afghanistan and create an avenue for dialogue and hopefully change. I believe that each of us has the ability to make a difference in this world... And based on the reviews so far, this book will have make a profound impact.

Rose wrote: "I am now currently reading my first Jane Austen book, Persuasion. Thought it was time to give Jane a whirl."

You picked the best one first! Enjoy!

Ivan wrote: "Mike wrote: "Yes that was my understanding about Lee and Capote. She won the Pulitzer so young and the biographer I heard (I tracked the book down later, but have forgotten which bio it was) agreed..."

its my understanding that Capote spread rumors that he had actually written Mockingbird- thats why Lee never wrote another book- I seem to recall reading about that- but not sure- Ivan might know- In Cold Blood was also reputed to be affected by the fact that Capote had a major crush on one of the killers- again- I van is the expert on Capote!

on a tragic note- John Megna- the actor who played Dill in the film passed away from AIDS in his 30's several years ago.

I just started reading Letter to a Christian Nation by Sam Harris. He also wrote The End of Faith: Religion, Terror, and the Future of Reason. I am only half way through this book, but I can already tell you it is amazing!

Nanette wrote: "Rick,

I'm curious - in what way did Capote's crush on one of the killers affect the way he told the story?"

I can only relate what I read from second hand sources- but he was less harsh on this viscious family killer in the book as a result- feeling him a victim too- under the control of the other killer-
pretty sure our Resident Capote Scholat Ivan will know the facts, Maam, just the facts.(Kudos to Jack Webb)

Ivan wrote: "Mike wrote: "Yes that was my understanding about Lee and Capote. She won the Pulitzer so young and the biographer I heard (I tracked the book down later, but have forgotten which bio it was) agreed..."

Thanks, Rick.

So, Ivan, glad to meet you - what is your take on Capote's "affection" for one of the killers?

Cori wrote: "I just started reading Letter to a Christian Nation by Sam Harris. He also wrote The End of Faith: Religion, Terror, and the Future of Reason. I am only half way through this book, but I can alre..."

sounds like a great author,cori!

Just finished In the Country of Men. I enjoyed it very much, and will post a review soon (if you're interested). Started The Ghost Map: The Story of London's Most Terrifying Epidemic--and How It Changed Science, Cities, and the Modern World this morning (unwillingly -- it's for my F2F book group).

Miss GP wrote: "Just finished In the Country of Men. I enjoyed it very much, and will post a review soon (if you're interested). Started [book:The Ghost Map: The Story of London's Most Terrifying Ep..."

I am interested in your review!

Rick wrote: "Ivan wrote: "Mike wrote: "Yes that was my understanding about Lee and Capote. She won the Pulitzer so young and the biographer I heard (I tracked the book down later, but have forgotten which bio i..."

Well, it's speculated that Capote was enamored of Perry Smith. He certainly ingratiated himself where Smith was concerned. He found him a person of better than average intelligence, and was certainly empathetic to Smith's sense of childhood abandonment and feelings of alienation. Was Capote in love with Smith? I think not. Capote was quite devoted to his companion Jack Dunphy. Capote became conflicted by his need to remain detached and objective. What he was unprepared for was the length of time it takes to actually execute even the most cold blooded murderer. Capote's intent was always to close In Cold Blood with the execution. When the inevitable kept being postponed, it left him feeling ghoulish; it tore him up emotionally and, I think, ruined him. After the publication of the book and his notorius black and white ball at the Plaza Hotel, Capote's star guttered out in a pool of alcohol. He did have flashes of brilliance post In Cold Blood, but they were rare (his Emmy winning teleplay for A Christmas Memory and his collection of misc fiction and essays Music for Chameleons).

Now did Capote help Lee write To Kill a Mockingbird? Well, they were friends; it's cartainly easy to believe that he read drafts and offered his opinions (he was nothing if not opinionated). However, it doesn't have his "voice," and so I would guess his input was limited. She, on the other hand, had every right to feel slighted when he failed to acknowledge her contributions to In Cold Blood. Was it intentional? Who can say?

just ordered 16 terry pratchett books- I am going on faith that I will love them!

Rick, you've got some fun reading ahead! Terry Pratchett is a big favorite of mine. I think he's the funniest author of the late 20th/early 21st century. The funniest author of the early 20th century, P.G. Wodehouse, is one of his main influences (along with G.K. Chesterton and American children's fantasy author Lloyd Alexander). Enjoy!

Sheila wrote: "Rick, you've got some fun reading ahead! Terry Pratchett is a big favorite of mine. I think he's the funniest author of the late 20th/early 21st century. The funniest author of the early 20th centu..."

thanks
I first ordered the Granny Weatherwax books- then bought 3 at B&N and then bought 8 more from Amazon
do you need to read them in order? or can I bounce around?

Rick

Most of the Pratchett books are written in order, and it helps to read them that way. There are some standalone Discworld books that can be read out of order, but Pratchett re-uses characters as well as develops characters, so order is usually important to get character development.

Are the books on your to-read shelf? I will be happy to offer some suggestions for a starting point. I think Pratchett is a genius!

I agree with Jeannette - Most of the characters change & grow over the books, so I think it really helps to read them in order, at least in order by set (Witches, Guard books, Wizards). Plus there are some running jokes throughout, like Death is a constant presence, as is the Librarian.

Another good reason to read them in order is that Pratchett's writing definitely matures as he goes along. The first five or so are funny, but the ones after that start evolving more into social commentary.

My favorites are the Guards books -- love Vimes. My favorite stand-alone is, without a doubt, Small Gods. That one you can read any time. I often give it to friends to introduce them to the Discworld books, as it's a good sample of his style and it doesn't depend too much on knowing the resident Discworldians to understand it.

I love the Vimes' books the best, too, Miss GP. Sam Vimes has really developed to where he has eclipsed everyone, even Vetinari. I also love Lords and Ladies from the witches. I think my favorite stand-alone is Thief of Time, if you have to pin me down!

i am reading the Vampire Diries because i wanted to know what would happen in the show. Turns out the book is totally different than the show! But its so much better (the book of course)

The Vimes books are my favorites too. They have wonderful characters, and are mysteries as well as fantasies. And I agree with Miss GP that Small Gods is one of the best in the series.

I'm now reading Knightley Academy by Violet Haberdasher, a new children's middle-grade/YA mystery-adventure set in an alternate-history Victorian England. I'm loving it so far! The first in a projected series, it's reminiscent of the Harry Potter series, even though there are no magical elements.

Miss GP wrote: "I agree with Jeannette - Most of the characters change & grow over the books, so I think it really helps to read them in order, at least in order by set (Witches, Guard books, Wizards). Plus there..."

Jeannette wrote: "Rick

Most of the Pratchett books are written in order, and it helps to read them that way. There are some standalone Discworld books that can be read out of order, but Pratchett re-uses character..."

thanks to both of you for the info!

I was thinking of starting with the witch books- Weird..., Witches Abroad...ect

also I really would like to read the two Moist Books I have- Going Postal and Making Money

I know I ordered some sam vines books as well

Just completed my third Saki, "When William Came", its not as amusing as the others I've read but quite delightful all the same. Saki is one author I haven't explored much so I'm considering trying some more of his work.
Thus far I've completed 'Clovis', 'Reginald' and now 'When William Came'.

Thinker wrote: "Just completed my third Saki, "When William Came", its not as amusing as the others I've read but quite delightful all the same. Saki is one author I haven't explored much so I'm considering trying..."

I lOve Saki!! H H Munro(real name) one of my treasures is a 1000pg plus book- the complete works of Saki- I believe he was killed in battle at a very early age

Rick, read the Witches in order, they are a set and follow a storyline that spans all three: Wyrd Sisters, Witches Abroad, Lords and Ladies (one of TP's best!). Moist is top-notch in Going Postal!

Yes Rick he was killed during World War I at age 43 in France.

I am currently reading Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell. I chose this book as is set in a period I love (early 1800's) combined with my favourite fall back genre when I am stuck for something to read. (Sci Fi) I was also sucked in by the comment from the -Time "RAVISHING...Combines the dark mythology of fantasy with the delicious comedy of Jane Austen into A MASTERPIECE OF THE GENRE THAT RIVALS TOLKIEN."
Two of my favourite Authors. How could it possibly live up to that? How could I resist?

((this group has so many posts))

Clair wrote: "((this group has so many posts))"

I thought the same thing. I just head to newest and hope I didn't miss too much.

Thanks to goodreads I have discovered Connie Willis, and have recently read "Doomsday Book" and am now in the middle of "To Say Nothing of The Dog". She's awesome! Also amazing to read these two which have so much in common and yet are so completely different in tone.

Jeannette wrote: "Rick, read the Witches in order, they are a set and follow a storyline that spans all three: Wyrd Sisters, Witches Abroad, Lords and Ladies (one of TP's best!). Moist is top-notch in Going Postal!"

thanks!! I have all three- starting Wyrd Sisters tonight as I am almost finished with The Rector and the Doctors Familyby Mrs Oliphant

Let us know Rick! Pratchett fans love to see someone discover and enjoy the Discworld!

Just finished Midnight Fugue by Reginald Hill, a Dalziel/Pasco mystery. I have read all the books in this series when I am in my "reading detective stories" mood (which I seem to be presently). This may not be one of Hill's best but it still intrigues.
Also just finished The Edwardians by J.B. Priestly about the "perfect summer" of the British Empire, leading up to WWI. Informative book with some great, little seen photographs of the major players of the time.

Jill wrote: "Just finished Midnight Fugue by Reginald Hill, a Dalziel/Pasco mystery. I have read all the books in this series when I am in my "reading detective stories" mood (which I seem to be presently). Th..."

sounds like a perfect duo of books to have read Jill-
I started Wyrd Sisters- love it already! getting into I Sniper - a BobbyLee Swagger thriller- love the series- and working my way through The Princes in the Tower- Richard III is now king- and the fate of the Princes is much in doubt- whew!!!!!!!

Jeannette wrote: "Let us know Rick! Pratchett fans love to see someone discover and enjoy the Discworld!"

I can already tell I will become a major Terry pratchett fan- love his "humor"- ordered a few more- got Guards Guards and another one today (forgot title!) also ordered Good Omens the Pratchett/Gaiman book- has to be great!