A Strange Case

I don't know about the rest of you, but I enjoyed our little break from the norm this month; and getting into the Halloween spirit.

Since this is such a classic story, I, as I'm sure you did, knew that Jekyll and Hyde were the same person, but it was interesting to read how it came about and how it was discovered by others. And I loved reading it the way it was written. There is something about the formal, classic, way that Stephenson writes that trumps all the versions of the story that I have heard and seen.

I also read Frankenstein with my kids this month (well the Children's Illustrated Classic version, anyway,) and in reading two "classic horror stories" I came to the conclusion that I didn't find them "horrific" as much as sad.

In the case of Jekyll and Hyde, I found it sad that selfishness can get people into so much trouble. Sad that the story had to end the way it did. Sad that man can be so prideful, that they have no one to turn to when they desperately need help. Sad that the one and only person Jekyll did confide in, didn't help, but instead chose to be appalled and reject him. Sad that people can fall so far through temptations.

When I first read Jekyll's letter to the Utterson, I couldn't believe the way that he described why he chose to continue to become Hyde. Such selfishness upset me. But after thinking about it for a little while, I realized how tempting that could be. I think, to a point, we do have two people inside of us. Who of us hasn't, at one time or another, felt a little rebellious, or angry, towards someone else? Most of us don't act on those urges because of the consequences that follow. But if you did have a disquise that would be impossible to track down, I think a lot of people would take advantage of the opportunity to release some anger, resentment, or revenge. How dangerous life would be if that was the case.

I liked the nature of the book, and the lessons I could take away from it. But in the end, I was especially glad it was fiction.

So what did you think?

(Poll for December's book is in the side bar. I decided to go with less "classic" and more "present" since this will be one of the last polls for the 1600-present time frame.)

What a Treasure

So, I am the worst club manager ever. Family has been sick and computers have crashed and I am really late getting a discussion started on Treasure Island.

I did however, really enjoy reading the book. It was an easy to read while taking care of a million other things, kind of story. I found it fast paced and attention grabbing, even though I sometimes struggle with Stephenson's language.

It definitely makes you think twice about "treasure hunting". I think it's a great statement about how money doesn't bring happiness. I think that by the end of the story everyone one the voyage would agree that it wasn't worth what they went through to get it. A lesson that I think too many people don't believe.

While reading the story I also did some reading on Stephenson's background and upbringing. Because of that, I found his attitudes regarding religion interesting in the book. What I read said that he was an unbeliever (something that tore up his family) yet I felt he did a very good job at portraying the feelings and actions of those that did believe in the book, as well as the feelings of those that did not, like Silver.

I also couldn't help but think about Jim's part in the whole story. He isn't much older than my son and I couldn't imagine my son dealing with betrayal, work, and danger, of those magnitudes. I realize that we don't give our children as much responsibility, as early, as people did back then- but I still can't imagine sending my young teenager off on a ship of men, of which I only knew one, to search for a treasure that belonged to a deplorable man. It actually made me sad that he had to lose his innocence as early, and in the way that he did. Especially when he was forced to take a life to save his own.

So how did you enjoy the story?

(I also hope you are enjoying Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. And don't forget to vote for Nov. book in the side bar.)

It's a Sin to Kill a Mocking Bird

I had always wondered where they came up with the title to this book. Now, I'm glad that I know.

I learned so much from reading To Kill a Mocking Bird, this month. I really enjoyed it. I enjoyed it in the, "it made me mad" sense. (Sort of like Uncle Tom's Cabin.) I was appalled at the things that I considered wrong, but I loved how the story was told and the people and things that were good.

I also "enjoyed" seeing the evils of the world through the eyes of a child. It once again reminded me that our children are ALWAYS listening and watching us. They understand so much more than we give them credit for, but they also need our guidance and example for the parts that they don't understand yet.

Of course there were lots of parts that weren't easy to read. Parts that made me angry, parts that confused me and made me wonder what I'd have said in that situation. (like when they find out about Tom's death in the Missionary lunch). But there was a lot of good I found in the book as well.

With the narrator being a child, I found this book a very easy to read, story, yet every once in a while they would throw in a comment by a character that was so profound and eloquent. Like when Atticus gave his closing statements in court and brought up Thomas Jefferson and that "All men are created equal" can be taken so many different ways, but that the one place that it is absolutely true is in a court room.

Or the way that Mr. Raymond confessed to putting on an act of being a drunk to make it easier for the town not to like him, because he knew that they wouldn't accept his life style.

I adored Atticus' sense of character. How he always thought of what his children would think of him before he did any actions. And how he could make sure that they heard what he wanted them to hear, even when they thought they shouldn't be listening.

I really enjoyed the lesson learned from Mrs. Dubose. And I love the quote about walking in other people's skin before you pass judgments on them.

I also enjoyed Miss Maudie's way of peacefully and lovingly telling the truth, especially to the children.

Most of all I thought that the book was very nicely summed up in the closing statements when Scout and Atticus said:

"...Atticus, he was real nice..."

"Most people are Scout, when you finally see them."

I don't know if I've ever read a book before that when I was finished I had both an upsetting pit in the bottom of my stomach and a longing to read more of the good.

(Leave your comments here, I can't wait to read what you thought too.)

Grapes ...

I wish I had a cleaver title for this post, but to be honest, I didn't get both the books read like I had wanted too. However, I know that this book is supposed to take place around the same time as the Great Depression, and I would love to hear what similarities and differences were found to our times.

If you chose the Grapes of Wrath, please leave your comments to this post.

Fangs

So, once again you have my sincerest apologies. The end of summer this year has been a very busy one. My mother had surgery, my kids got sun poisoning, we have a foreign exchange student, we've had scout camp and family reunions and that's just in the last week and a half.

So I'm ready to read your thoughts on White Fang.

I don't have all my notes with me, but I know that in the beginning I was very disappointed with how "man eating" and violent it portrayed the wolves to be. My husband is a big fan of wolves and has studied them a lot. There are NO reports of wolves ever attacking humans unless they had rabies except in stories. I know that they were starving, but I don't think they'd have really acted as the book explained.

When I got to section 2 I liked the story a lot better. I loved the puppy point of view. But I disagreed with the statement that he would know nothing of God. I think animals now God a lot better than some of us humans.

I'll post more later when I have my notes and see some of your thoughts as well. Hope you've enjoyed your summer readings. Remember you have two books to choose from this month and next months poll is up now.

So What is Courage?

I must admit that I had a love/hate relationship with this book.

First of all it moved very quickly, I actually read it casually, in about 3 days.
Secondly I loved the pictures that were painted and how you could really "see" what was happening in the battles. I thought there were some beautiful analogies.
As far as the story itself, I had very mixed feelings. I loved how honest the book was. For example I thought it was so true to life, how "the youth" had dreamed of battles all his life, had fought with his mother for months about enlisting, gone on to enlist without her blessing and then when the battle actually came, he had never wanted this, he was forced to join and he was disgusted by his stupid commanders.
I also found it true how he had so many flash backs of his previous life in the heat of different circumstances.
I appreciated his self doubt about whether he could be brave in battle or not, or if he would run. I saw so much of how I would be in his trying to get others to admit to something, without he himself admitting he was scared. But I thought that he would get to the battle and adrenaline would take over and he would perform just fine. His running did surprise me. Although, I was first inclined to do some justifying myself. He had followed others, he thought that everyone would run. He wasn't the first to take off. But the way he handled things afterwards very much upset me. I was especially appalled by the way that he left the injured man, how he hated him, just because he wanted to know where his wound was. A dying man was trying to care more about the youth than himself and in return he was left to die a lone. I was disgusted. And later when he returned to his regiment and they assumed that he had fought, been separated and shot and he actually had the audacity to think of ways to make fun of the "loud soldier" because he hadn't died; well, I wanted to reach into the book and smack him!

When he did finally meet his battles and went to another place in his mind and fought very hard, and at times valiantly, I was glad and rejoiced that he had over come his weaknesses.
As a very patriotic person, I was almost moved to tears when he took it upon himself to carry the flag. When he realized how much that it meant to him and never again gave it up.

And I was happy with the ending; how he was able to look back at all he had done honestly. How he was able to admit his mistake and feel guilt without trying to make excuses and justifications, yet he was able to push it aside by seeing the good he had ultimately done as well, so that he was able to move on and go back to a "normal" post military life.

I also believe that there are great life lessons in personal character that can be learned from this book. I think that it might be a little much for my 11 year old, but it is definitely on my list of "my son must read this." (Just a couple years of maturity down the road.)

I'm also glad that we ended up extending the reading time for last months book. Because I tried hard to finish it before starting this one, I ended up reading/finishing it during Independence day weekend and I couldn't help but liken what the battles of the Civil War had to have had in common with those of the Revolutionary War. It made me appreciate again, and all the more, what so many others have sacrificed for me in all the wars that have been fought for my country.

I hope that you enjoyed this quick read as well and I can't wait to read your thoughts on the book.
I hope you had a WONDERFUL holiday.

Did Anybody Finish?

May and June turned out to be much busier months than I thought. And I have to be honest, I haven't finished the book.  So this is turning into more of an announcement post for me.

If you did finish, let everyone know what you thought.  It is my goal to finish Anna K. and The Red Badge of Courage this month.

On a happier note, "CONGRATULATIONS!" are in order.  Mrs. and Mr. Mordecai welcomed their newest family member .  They had their 1st girl (2nd child) on June 9th.  Visit her personal blog at:http://be-it-ever-so-humble.blogspot.com/ to see the cute pics and get all the details.

Congratulations again!  I am so happy for you and your family.

Also the poll is going up today for July's book so don't forget to cast your vote.

I can't wait to read your thoughts.  Sorry, again, that I don't have many yet.

All Around the World

You all have my sincerest apologies for the late post this month. Our computer went down on Monday and I didn't get it back until today. Thank you so much to those of you who emailed me. I very much appreciate that you cared about my well being. We are fine, we just weren't able to use the computer. So now that you've waited long enough... here is my short thoughts on Around the World in 80 Days.

Whoa, did Disney take liberties! This book was much different than the movie I've seen, which was my only experience with this story yet.

I did think that it was a fun, fast moving story though. I was a little worried before I started the book, because I've read Journey to the Center of the Earth; and while my son and I found it to be a fun story, it was very long, and full of very big words, and parts of it really dragged on. This one was much easier to read.

I was very intrigued by Phineas Fogg's personality. I admired Fogg's calm and forgiveness throughout the trip. I really admired and was thankful for his bravery and humanity, in reference to Aouda and Passpartout, when they needed rescuing.
It made me incredibly upset at how Disney made him such a scatter brained proffesor/scientist. They took all of the chivilry and good character lessons out of the story.

I loved that Aouda was able to see past his sometimes cold-ish properness, and that they were able to get their "happily ever after"- ending up together.

I found the story easy to read. I found it to pace at the same speed as the story. It moved very quickly, just like their whirl-wind trip. The only time I felt the story dragged was for a short time when they were on the train, in America. And even then, that is the part in their trip that seemed slow to them.

I was surprised, and impressed, when Ogden, was mentioned and given credit as being huge for the railroad. (For those of you who don't know I live quite near Ogden, in Utah.) As well, when I saw there would be a chapter on Mormons, I was curious and nervous; both of which turned out to be warranted. I was pleasantly surprised in the parts that were right. (History of the LDS church migration etc.) and a little bummed out, but not at all surprised by the mistakes. (The words the missionary preached etc.)

I also liked/appreciated how it was all real modes of transportation during that time period. (Unlike some movies I've seen, and one of Jules Verne's other novels, Journey to the Center of the Earth, which is a bit far fetched for me.) I came out of it thinking that his trip really was possible. Which even with todays faster modes of transportation seems like quote a feat.

Poor Mr. Fix. I never did like him though. I realize that he thought he was doing his job, and even apologized at the end of the story. But because I knew that Fogg was innocent, I never could like him. Especially when he pulled a couple of things on Passepartout. (Like the getting him drunk and drugging him escapade.)

I hope that you all enjoyed this lighter classic as well, this last month. And I can't wait to read your interpretations.

*hugs to you all*

Apparently I'm Not Very Good At This Job

You all have my apologies.  I don't usually do blog posts on Sundays and totally spaced off that yesterday was the 5th.  And as of the moment I don't have my review typed up yet.  

Please feel free to start leaving your comments on Uncle Tom's Cabin and I will ad my thoughts to yours in the comments.

(And don't forget to vote for May's book in the side bar.)

A Whale of a Tale

Forgive me for posting a little late today. I had lots of notes to go through.

I realize that this was a long and and tedious book, and that it didn't have a happily ever after sort of ending. But for very personal reasons I took a lot away from this book. You see, my hubby is retired from the Coast Guard. I am married to a sailor and almost immediately I was drawn to the similarities between the sailors of old and the sailors of today. So I hope that you won't mind that a lot of my thoughts are what I took away and learned about my own sailor.

It started in the 1st paragraph of the book when he spoke of wanting to knock peoples hat's into the street, and following funerals, etc. I'm sure that it was meant to make us laugh and get the point across that he got bored on land. My husband very easily gets cabin fever though. And it made me giggle to know that it is a common trait in his profession. And while he is content to move on with his life and is glad that he has more time to spend with his family, I know that he very much misses parts of his military life, especially the ocean.

When he spoke of all roads leading to the sea and other such comparisons to water. I thought it was a little strange and then he says, " Why upon first voyage as passenger did you yourself feel such a Mystical vibration..." And I was immediately taken back to my first time on the open ocean. My husbands ship did a day pleasure cruise for the crews family and it was "mystical". I saw a humpback whale. I felt the roll of the waves and how endless the water felt. I got to go on deck and seethe areas of the ship, all the instruments and steer the boat. It's a memory that I will never forget and I have an understanding of how some could find it addicting. The same statement also made me think of Robinson Crusoe and how addicted he was to the sea even after all the times the deity had stepped in to intervene for him, he couldn't stop himself from going back.

I giggled out loud when she said he always went to sea as a sailor, not a passenger and never as an officer. My husband used to have a saying, "Don't call me sir, I work for a living." He too, was enlisted his whole carrier, never an officer. And when in the book he says, "Why pay to doing something that I can get paid to do?" I wondered if the cruise that my hubby and I always talk about going on would really bring him any fun or happiness.
I think that T (my husband) would also very much agree when he said that "The commodore on the quarter deck gets his atmosphere at second hand from the sailors on the forecastle." I knew very quickly that the real work is done by those lower on the totem pole and that those in charge were only as good as their crew.

My favorite quote of the whole book was on page 15 in my copy. "The urbane activity with which a man receives money is really marvellous, considering that we so earnestly believe money to be the root of all earthly ills and that on no account can a monied man enter heaven. Ah, how cheerfully we consign ourselves to perdition!" So true.

The next likeness that I saw to T was when he spoke of what made him think to try whaling this time around. He speaks of the danger and the unknown. "With other men perhaps such things would not have been inducements; but as for me, I am tormented with an everlasting itch for things remote. I love to sail forbidden seas, and land on barbarous coasts. Not ignoring what is good, I am quick to perceive a horror and could still be social with it- would they let me- since it is well to be on friendly terms with the inmates of the place one lodges in." My T wanted to travel so much more in his military career than we did. He wanted to go over seas. See new places and cultures. meet with new people and experiences. I was the one that was a scaredy cat about it and begged him to stay in the states. He isn't afraid to take on new challenges and he handles bad times with coolness and calm. 20/20 hindsight, I know that we'd have been fine anywhere.

I was immediately drawn into the story of Queequeg. And took many favorite quotes from that aspect of the story too.
"What's all this fuss I have been making about... the man's a human being just as I am... Better sleep with a sober cannibal than a drunken Christian."

I learned to think of closure differently when it spoke of those left behind when loved ones died at sea. "Oh ye, whose dead be buried beneath the green grass... You know not the desolation that broods in bosoms like these." I realize that seeing a casket put in the ground or having a grave to go to, does bring peace to some and that peace is taken away if there is no body to bury and to know that it isn't even resting peacefully, it's being devoured. I feel for those that aren't able to find the peace that they need to overcome such a heartache.

I also like how he could subtly mention his religious beliefs. I don't think that he was the type of person to say he belonged to a certain religion, but the way he felt about Queequeg and other things he said proved that he did hold faith in a higher power.
"In fact take my body, who will, take it... me thinks my body is but less of my better being..."
(when speaking of the preachers sermon:) "Who to him whom this world charms from Gospel duty!...Woe to him whose good name is more to him than goodness."
"You cannot hide the soul."
"...for I cherish the greatest respect towards every bodies religious obligations, never mind how comical, and could not find it in my heart to under value even a congregation of ants worshipping a toadstool..." I wish that the world as a whole could be more like this. If we could all learn to love each other as creatures of earth instead of different religions there would be much more peace.

"The world is a ship on it's passage out and not a passage complete, and the pulpit is it's prow." It reminded me a little of, "All the world's a stage..." but with an more religious undertone.

I LOVE that he and Queequeg became friends over a book! I was also struck with how Ishmael admired how Queequeg was so okay by himself, yet after one good visit and a smoke he embraced him and swore allegiance even to death for their friendship. I think it proves that everyone is happier when not alone. Even those who seem content by themselves, appreciate true, unjudgemental, friendship.

It also brought to my mind that there is something to be said about friends that you live with. T often called his shipmates his brothers. They became as dear as family and they trusted each other with their lives and that is a special friendship indeed.

When speaking of warmth: "for there is no quality in this world that is not what it is merely by contrast." It reminded me of the saying that without sadness there can be no happiness. And I appreciated him trying to teach and express that.

From Queequeg's story, I re-learned that there is evil in all parts of the world. Queequeg was surprised by how the "Christian" sailors spent their time and money. And that made me sad, that, this had to be his first example of Christianity. -What kind of example am I to those around me? There is always some one watching. And as Ishmael said:
"...Heaven have mercy on us all- Presbyterians and Pagans alike- for we are all somehow dreadfully cracked about the head, and sadly need mending."

On a totally different note. I can not imagine having to pack for a 3 year trip! The thought of all that would entail, made my head hurt.

I also really like the 'Honor of Whaling' chapter. While I definitely don't agree with the practise, I realized how many jobs are looked down upon. It made me glad that shows like Dirty Jobs are out there trying to bring them some praise.

The 'Cetology' chapter also made me laugh and spoke of the true character of some people. He lists all the reasons that science gives for classifying whales as mammals instead of fish and then says that he still thinks they're fish! Some people are so stubborn and nothing can be said to change their thinking or their ways.

On the same note however, I am one who is fascinated by sea life, especially the marine mammals, so I loved how he argued the name killer "For we are all killers, on land and on sea; Bonapartes and sharks included." I make my kids call them orcas.

It was at about this point in the book that I discovered that I think this book was as much Melville's forum for voicing his views on politics and life, as it was to tell a story.

The following quote jumped out at me. "For not only do fabulous rumors naturally grow out of the very body of all surprising terrible events... but in maritime life... wild rumors abound." We know where "fish stories" came from, by his own admission and I couldn't help thinking if that wasn't also his way of admitting that even this story is exaggerated?

In the second half of the Moby Dick chapter when he speaks of Ahab, his revenge is so well described and so obvious that it had taken over not just his life but his soul. I knew then and there that this was a dangerous man to be with.

In the Whiteness of the Whale chapter, I had never likened so many symbols to a single color. I was awed by all the examples of white that he had. Yes he rambles a bit but it was interesting to me.

His advice, "... be economical with your lamps and candles.! Not a gallon you burn, but at least one drop of man's blood was spilled for it." stuck with me as well. Certain fisheries are still one of the most dangerous industries, but it made me think about how many other things do we take for granted as conveniences that weren't convenient to get?

With the first whale sighting and him describing what the different heads did to get their men to row, I loved what he said about Ahab, "These were words best omitted here..." They were fit only for the sharks. This is why I love the classics. He very clearly painted the picture that Ahab 'cursed like a sailor' without having to pollute our minds with that filth. I was a little disappointed later in the book when their were a couple of words I'd have preferred not to read, but over all I was very thankful for him sparing me the worst of them. Something that today's books and movies don't feel they need to do.

I also had a smile brought to my face in the Monstrous Pictures of Whales chapter. To hear of all the terrible artwork he had seen of "whales" I can see how it must have been so frustrating to someone who had seem them up close and personal to see others so poorly educated about them and it made me appreciate that I live in a time of cameras and videos that allow me to see the truth of more creatures and their lifestyles.

At this point in the book, I must admit that even I was acknowledging that Yes, Moby Dick is full of un-needed chapters. However in the Line chapter, it reminded me that it is only through these bits of over explanatory parts that history is recorded. In reading classics such as these we have a picture painted of how life really worked. Of exactly how things were set up and done. So that we can now see how a couple of small boats with six men in them could really catch and kill and tow a whale without killing each other. It does seem mundane to you and I, I found myself thinking 'get on with the story already' but it's because of details like this that we know so much about the past.

His view of how they could do such a dangerous job struck me. "All men live enveloped in whale lines. All are born with halters round their necks; but it is only when caught in the swift, sudden turn of death, that mortals realize the silent, subtle, ever present perils of life. And if you be a philosopher, though seated in the whale boat, you would not at heart feel one more whit of terror, than though seated before your evening fire with a poker, and not a harpoon, by your side." I think many do feel that way. Life is dangerous no matter what, and you can either be scared of it, or live it.

In Stubb's Chapter. I can't imagine how hard and tiring it must have been to tow in that whale. The fatigue must have been unbearable. Especially since you would have already been so tired from getting to it and killing it in the first place. What strong, strong men! And then to have sharks eat so much of that hard work! It must have seemed heartbreaking.
I also earned a strong dislike for Stubb though. With the way he gloated and how he treated the "old black man"... I wanted to smack him. And I think we learned later that he was a total follower without much of a backbone, compared to Starbuck.

Another totally random quote that will only mean something to me is when he asked? "Do you believe in Ghosts." I have it on very good authority that Sailors are the most superstitious beings on earth! And that there are many a haunted lighthouses along the coasts.

It sounds cheesy, but I almost cried when Queequeg jumped in to save Tashtego from drowning in the whale. Melville really won me over and I loved Queequeg. My heart is sad for all the ill that came to him. Life is certainly not fair.

The "Old Whale" chapter very much upset me. They already had two whales the Jungfrau (other ship) had none. They capsized the other ships boat and leave them there, and then they kill an old whale that had been abused it's whole life and it sinks! What a waste. Such a sad reminder that there is pride and greediness everywhere. I was just sick for that poor old whale. Couldn't even die peacefully in his old age. AND the trick on the other French ship was horrible. Yes they may have been the means for killing some of those whales, but there were rules and that is part of the job and they were underhanded and dirty about it. I guess that's what they mean by a 'dog eat dog world'.

I've heard that even now, fishermen do their own dental work while out at sea, but the Carpenter chapter made my stomach churn a little. He must have been a very talented and busy man though. I had much respect for him.

Queequeg stole my heart again when he said, "..if a man made up his mind to live, mere sickness could not kill him..." I've know people like that and their strength and determination astound me. I hope that I can learn to be more like that.
On a separate note. After learning what they used as dental and doctoring skills and knowing that true bathing isn't really an option. I think it's a miracle that the whole crew didn't come down with the fever.

My heart also felt so sorry for little Pip. It's amazing what our own minds can do to us after a traumatic event. It's probably also a wonder that they didn't all lose their minds too. (which also made me think back to the man that followed them around at the beginning of the story. I know he was meant to be their omen, but I wouldn't have believed the crazy loon either. I'd have just thought, he'd had one to many voyages of his own.)

The Blacksmith's story was also very sad. Oh, the vile alcohol, it is indeed a robber. I thought that was a beautiful analogy. It does strip so many of all they hold dear. And it made me wonder, how many men joined crews because they thought they wouldn't make it back home? Is that really the kind of mate you want sleeping next to you knowing that your lives could depend on each other? Scary indeed.
When the Blacksmith answers Ahab, "Because I am scorched all over... thou can not scorch a scar." I don't think he was just talking literally. I think that he was referring as much to his soul as to his skin.

When Ahab gives him his razor blades and says," Take them man, I have no need for them for I now neither shave, sup nor pray..." I knew that he had been completely taken over and this was not going to end well. By his own admission, Starbuck was right and "Ahab must beware of Ahab."

A quote that really struck me was the following: "Let faith oust fact; let fancy oust memory; I look deep down and do believe. I'd like all of your thoughts on this one. I think it can be taken in so many ways.

Ahabs speech/prayer/threat in the typhoon gave me the willies much more than any of Queequegs Idol worship. No wonder Starbuck thought that God was trying to tell them something. Especially when he thought that the winds could be used in their favor to get back home.

So shortly later when Starbuck was faced with the thought of murder I understood it. It seemed he was the only one listening to Providence. He knew that by letting Ahab live, it would be their death, but as a good Christian man, he could not commit murder. I would have felt the same way and did not envy his position. What would you do?

Disgust is the only word I can find for describing how I felt when they( Ahab) would not stop for one day to help the ship Rachel. But I must say also that I wanted to know, what the heck a 12 year old was doing on a whaling ship!?

When I learned that Ahab had been 40 years a whaler and only three of those years had been spent on land, my first thought was, no wonder the guy went crazy when he lost his leg. Some people just don't have their priorities in order.
But shortly later when he said, "Omen? Omen?.... If God thinks to speak outright to man, they will honorably speak outright....." Then I realize the fact was that his real problem was that he never learned how to recognize the voice of God, or he'd let his revenge take over and forgotten.

Starbucks tears as he begged Ahab not to lower his boat the final time, touched me. To this point the only character I had really learned to care for was Queequeg, but as Ahab had himself lowered anyway and I saw that Starbuck truly cared for this man he knew to be a monster and did not wish him harm. I knew that he was indeed a good man and I felt for the heartbreak he must be feeling.

I personally felt that the story ended quite abruptly, especially after so many of the other parts seemed to go on forever. I hurt when it was Queequegs coffin that saved Ishmael and I realized that he really had been inspired both to have it made and to have it turned into a buoy. It made me sad all over again that his sweet life and Starbucks were taken because of the acts of a terrible man. And it was ironic indeed that it was the Rachel that came to his rescue.

While it didn't in any way, I think, have a happy ending. I do see why it's such a classic. There are so many life lessons that can be learned through this story. Lessons in history, religion, love of your fellow man and pride and revenge. And while it was a hard on to get through, especially in one months time, I think that I am better off for reading it.

Well, I think I've rambled long enough, now the discussion turns to you. What did you think/learn of Moby Dick?

A life in the Scarlet Letter

For the first time since I joined this book club, this was not the first time that I had read this book.  It was actually my third time.  But luckily I've always liked it.

Here are some of the points that struck me as I read this time around.

I was very struck with the lifestyle of the Puritans.  "Law and religion were one in the same.", it said, and in theory that sounds like a good idea.  How much less crime and sin would there be if when caught we had to pay our due to society and wear it like a badge for everyone to see.  I know that would make me think twice about decisions.  However, they took it so far and forgiveness never seemed to be realized and that made me sad.  

I was also struck with how serious they felt they had to be.  The children weren't allowed to have fun without being thought to be possessed by spirits.

And it hit me that "law and religion" were one in the same, yet those that had to deal with the law, (Governor etc.) were what provided Hester with a living.  The way she could so greatly decorate with a needle would have been considered a sin to wear in everyday life.  It would have been showing pride, however those high in society weren't held up to that standard and they utilized Hesters talents so much, her child never went hungry.  It seems that government officials thinking they are above the law isn't such a new concept after all.

I am a believer that no man should be punished for another mans mistakes and the way that Pearl was considered a tyrant because of the circumstances surrounding her birth (at times even by her own mother) made me incredibly sad and there was more than once I wanted to jump in the book and slap some people upside the head.

I didn't find Pearl to be the little elf that everyone else did.  I saw her as a normal, slightly undisciplined, little girl.  As a baby, when I read about the first thing she noticed was the scarlet letter, it made sense, we know now that babies are attracted to contrasting colors, like red and gold.  Every child wants to ask questions, play make-believe and tease their parents every once in a while.

I loved when Hester would remember that she was a blessing though.  She was her "Pearl of Great Price" bought at a major price, yet a true blessing which helped, or at least should have, to prove that the Lord did want her to have some happiness in life.  His forgiveness is immediate, unlike the rest of us.

I also laughed every time the women called themselves gossips.  It was so incredibly true, yet they didn't realize that gossip and judging others are evils as well. 

The surprise about the Reverend Dimmesdale as the father wasn't there this time, however, I noticed this time through how much I saw his inner torment through out the whole story and not just the end of the book.

Believe it or not, I had somehow forgotten that Roger Chillingsworth, (the husband) had stayed in the town and become a big part of the story.  I watched his every move very closely this time.  It seems like the first time I thought him to be a forgiving, yet didn't want to be a part of it, nice guy.  This time I saw him as much more calculating, and revengeful.  True, he took care of Hester and Pearl in their times of illness, which is to his credit. (I do think that stemmed from the love he once had for her and that he did have enough self-esteem issues -which he spoke of in the prison- so that he really did put part of her blame on himself.) But he was not the forgiving sort and I think he was really out for blood while looking for the other man.  In the end I feel that we learned how much revenge will consume your life and at times even noticeable to others.  Hester noticed at times how much he looked more disfigured than he had before.  And while half the town thought he was a God-send to the Reverend while the other half thought he looked evil and feared for his safety.  We as readers saw how evil his intentions really were.

I am always reminded of the lesson in forgiveness.  Not just that we need to forgive others, ( I still read in awe, how the others in the community treated not just Hester, but her poor Pearl who had nothing to do with her mothers sins.) but most in forgiving ones self.  It became quite obvious that even though Hester had to deal with complete humiliation, she didn't have to suffer half as much as what Reverend Dimmesdale put himself through.

Hester was able to find peace, to learn to love her fellow men and do good for others.  While even in his service to God, Dimmesdale found misery.  Each speech from the pulpit wasn't really meant for the people that he did help, it was meant to torment himself.

Sin, or really the guilt there from, really can take over your life, it can affect your health, your personality, every aspect of your life, if you let it consume you.

What did you think or learn from the book this month?

God Bless Us Everyone

(I have a busy week next week, so I'm posting this just a couple of days early, but discussions will be open until the 10th as usual.)
So what did you think of A Christmas Carol?

I must admit that this short of a book was perfect for my Decemeber. The plan of reading it to my kids however, turned into reading them the Childrens', Great Illustrated Classic, edition. It was too much for the little ones. They all loved it, however, and I enjoyed watching them laugh at the changes Scrooge went thru in the end.

If I'm being perfectly honest, I find Dickens to be a little overly descriptive. When it speaks of the Ghost of Christmas Present surrounded by food, I could have just been told that there was turkey and drinks and lots of fruit. I don't need to know how golden the skin was and the exact discription of how it smelled. I found myself more skimming over those parts than reading them.

I was actually surprised at how little Tiny Tim was mentioned. He was definitely a part of the story, but it seems to me like the movies always put more emphasis on him.

I loved the book though. It was a perfect addition to my Christmas reads. I love the change in Scrooge, the Spirit of Christmas, and the message that it's never too late to change.

I hope that all of you had a WONDERFUL holiday season!!! Please leave your thoughts on A Christmas Carol and take time to vote for February's book on the side bar. I hope you enjoy The Scarlet Letter this month.

What I learned from Jane

I don't know about you but I really enjoyed Jane Eyre.

First if all I must admit that it started totally different than I expected. All I had ever heard about Jane Eyre was that it was a good book and that Jane and Mr. Rochester was someone's favorite couple. So I almost expected another Pride and Prejudice type of book. So when it started off with Jane as a child, and a severely mistreated on at that, I was immediately sucked in. I wanted to know how she would over come these hardships.

I thought that school was the answer to those questions when it was first mentioned. Then she got to school and I found one more thing that she would have to overcome.

I fell in love with Helen and I think that she deserves to be Sainted.

I was very impressed with how Charlotte wrote in a way that you understood why Jane felt the way she did. When she had been a short time at Thornfield and was feeling bored and like there was so much more to the world. I remember thinking that I would just be happy to not be at Lowood anymore. When she started wanting to leave I thought, "Oh, be careful what you wish for." But I understood how Gateshead and Lowood, were all she had known and she wanted to see more.

I also like how she was so comfortable with Mr. Rochester when he mistreated her. I thought it was true to the character of Jane.

I liked the mystery part of the book. I've always liked mysteries but not the blood and gore kind, which seems to be all that is put out anymore. So I was dying to know why Mrs. Poole was allowed to stay. And why Mrs. Fairfax wasn't happy about Jane's and Mr. Rochester's engagement.

I was very upset with Mrs. Fairfax telling her to act differently. I thought THAT would cause wedding problems.

When the wedding day arrived, my heart broke when the wedding was interrupted. I couldn't believe that it was all being taken away from her. I wanted to scream at the book. "It's not fair, she survived such a rotten childhood! Where is her happy ending?"

I was amazed at her composure. She had never asked questions about Mrs. Poole or Mr. Mason, she just followed along. She treated her cousins and Aunts so civilly when she went back there and then, when her world crashed down around her, she kept her cool and listened to him. I could not have done that. I'd have lost it.

I also ached with her in her decision to leave. I knew she had to, I knew I would have to if it were me. But I would have wanted to stay as much as she did.

I instantly feel in love with the people of Moors Head. Especially the caring sisters. I liked how she took on Morton School and I loved how blunt and open she could be with Mr. Rivers. St. John never totally won over my feeling though and when he asked her to marry him I was incredibly angry. When she actually considered it I worried and when she said,"No." cheered. Yes, I literally squealed "Yeah!"

When she found Mr. Rochester after finding out about Thornfield I couldn't have been happier. I truly thought that he needed a happily ever after as much as she did. And I was so excited that they did get it, but in the right way. Patience is a virtue for a reason I guess.

This is definitely up there on my list of favorites now. I really did love it, especially the religious tone of the book.

As soon as I finished it I remembered how Mrs. Brooke had said she had hated it in High School and I thought, "I probably wouldn't have liked it as much then either." It definitely is a book that I think you like better as an adult. As a kid without many life experiences, I think I wouldn't have forgiven Edward for lying. I would have been upset that she was once again thrown into terrible experiences that she had nothing to do with. But as an adult, I understood that life is full of things we have no control over, except how we handle them. I admired her strength and I revealed in her ability to move on. And even though Mr. Rochester had been disfigured, I still saw it as a "happily ever after" ending, and appreciated the unconditional love even more. It's amazing how much you change over the course of your life isn't it.

(You all have my apologies for being late posting this month. The holiday preparations got away from me a bit. I have copy and pasted Sharon's comments from Jane Eyre in the comments, since she did it on time a couple of days ago.)

It's Time for Discussing

I must admit that before Oct. I had never read Pride and Prejudice. Now that I have, I think I have a crush on Mr. Darcy!
Do you think my husband would mind that I also have feelings for a fictional character?

On the serious side here are some of the thoughts that occurred to me while reading.

#1 In the beginning of the story, I found the book fairly hard to read. It wasn't the large vocabulary, or the more "old english" way of speaking. I can read that fairly easily. My problem was that Jane doesn't use many "he said" or "she exclaimed" or "they interupted"'s. She just starts a new paragraph with a new set of quotation marks. I found myself having to re-read half a page, a couple of times, just to figure out who said what.
If this hadn't been a book club selection, and I hadn't heard almost every friend I know tell me how "GREAT" of a book it was. I don't know that I'd have gotten past chapter 3. By chapter 5, however, I either got used to it, or it got better in that regard, because that was when I started to get hooked. I had a very hard time putting it down. In fact, as soon as I finished it I read Sense and Sensibility and devoured it just as quickly.

#2 Was the change of times

Man did those people like to play cards! Every time it spoke of pulling out the card tables I laughed. But then I thought, if someone were to document my everyday life, people would probably laugh every time I clicked on the television. At least their after dinner past time could involve some personal conversation.
I also longed to be invited to one of the balls. I have always been a dancer, and I wish that the social balls were still apart of our social life.

#3 I LOVED how Jane pointed out that shyness is often confused for Pride. I myself, have been accused of being "stuck up" by people who have then changed their minds once they got to know me. And even though that is the case, I have thought the same of others, just to find out later that they are frighteningly shy. I think it is usually the case that when someone is thought of as prideful, it is usually that they just don't have the guts to prove otherwise.

#4 On a personal note, I very much admired Elizabeth's spunk. I found her character and myself incredibly alike, however, I am VERY non-confrontational and I hardly ever speak my mind to anyone other than my VERY close friends and family. For her to be so bold with her opinions, especially to the wicked Lady Bourdough, in times when most women of that day would have stayed quiet, or conceded was wonderful to me.

#5 As far as the message about marriage I was surprised by how many things have changed and how many things have stayed the same over the years.
People do in fact still marry for status or money. Some people still stay married even though they aren't at all happy. Some people still try to talk relatives out of the marriage they want. However, I don't think many people would even blink at Lydia and Mr. Wickham's situation. Sadly, there is almost no such thing as a dishonorable marriage anymore. (I however, still detested him and do not hold him in any high regard. The little weasel.) And it is much more likely that people who aren't happy do not stay together. Divorce is no longer looked upon as an evil.
It is fascinating to see where all the differences, or lack of them have taken place. Whether they be for the better or the worse.
The one thing that I think very much still rings true is her point of the book: That the only way to truly be happy is to marry the person you love and not to let the other worldly influences sway you from that.
I was very struck by an observation that was made on the inside cover of my copy of the book:
"The making of a suitable marriage was the great theme of nineteenth-century English literature, from Jane Austen to Charles Dickens, from George Eliot to Henry James. and no one has ever pointed out the pitfalls and stumbling blocks on the way to the alter with more verve, wit and sparkle than the UNMARRIED Jane Austen."
Married or not, I think she, obviously, spent a lot of time watching people and was one of earths true romantics. Like I said, I love Mr. Darcy!

We're Still Alive

Hey there everyone,

It's me, Shimmy Mom, I just took over the blog for Mrs. Brooke. And like all of you I wish her the absolute best and hope that she is back to leading us soon, and especially hope she will still join us in our reads and comments.

We are a little late this month, but did anybody read the assignment for Sept.? I must admit that my family moved in Sept. and I did not get it all read. I have, however, sort of cheated. When my family lived in St. Louis, they we in the middle of making a huge memorial library dedicated to Lewis and Clark and Sacajawea. So I would love to hear your thoughts on the reading. So we will extend the commenting time to Oct. 15th this month.

Remember that this months book is Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austin. If you haven't started yet, you still have time. We will be back to our normal discussion schedule in Nov. and will have open forum from Nov. 5th to the 10th.

Don't forget to go over to the side bar and vote for our Nov. read. We have three great options.

Now, as to business. I don't plan on changing things. I would like to pose the question though, if it would be helpful to anyone for me to send out emails to remind you that it is time for the book discussions, that voting is open for the next months book etc? If so please let me know in the comments and I will make sure that everyone gets their reminders.
I'm really excited to keep this going and hope that you all decide to stay in the group. Feel free to contact me or ask questions in the comments. Happy Reading!
*hugs*

A Tale of Two Cities

It's already time for discussion! Leave your comments...I have none, as I have yet to make it through the second chapter. I made the boneheaded mistake of not buying the book and just borrowing it from the library.

Turns out that I just cannot read a book if I can't underline and circle stuff in it.

Enjoy your discussion this month with each other!

1776

Yes, I've read it; and no, I can't write about it right now. So I figured I'd at least get a post up so y'all can start leaving your comments and I'll leave my thoughts in the comments section as well. Sorry...things are just crazy around here at the moment.

Thoughts on The Declaration of Independence, The Constitution of the United States and The Federalist Papers

Whoever came up with the idea of posting on the 5th failed to take into consideration how tired she would be after staying up to celebrate the 4th of July.

Alright, down to business. First off, I really enjoyed reading through these selections and found that the more I read through and about them, the more I wanted to read other things in connection to them. I finally understand why it's important to read all those philosophers' works we're always hearing about, and I've taken the time to really think through some of the wording of these documents and was able to come to some opinions on my own that wouldn't have happened just by listening to teachers or the media. (That makes me feel smart.)

The basic historical facts behind the American Founding Documents:

The second Continental Congress met May 10, 1775 (three weeks after the battles at Lexington and Concord). On June 7th, the idea of dissolving ties with Britain was introduced. Four days later, a committee was assembled to produce a draft of a declaration of independence. The draft, written by Thomas Jefferson, was finished within two weeks. John Adams and Benjamin Franklin reviewed the draft and added 47 amendments before it was presented to the whole Congress on June 28, 1775.

A year later, on the second of July, Congress formally adopted the resolution declaring independence from Great Britain. Thirty nine changes to the Declaration were made and on July 4, 1776, the actual Declaration of Independence was drafted and formally adopted by Congress.

The Declaration's first public appearance was in the Pennsylvania Evening Post on July 6th and George Washington had the Declaration read to his army in New York on July 9th. That night a mob of New Yorkers tore down the statue of George III located on the Bowling Green at the foot of Broadway.

The Articles of Confederation were ratified in 1781, but problems soon became apparent and led to the need for a stronger centralized government, which spurred the creation of the Constitution. The Constitution was approved by the Constitutional Convention in 1787 and received enough votes for ratification in 1788.

The Bill of Rights was introduced in 1789 and became effective in 1791.

The Declaration of Independence:
It's mind-blowing to me to even try to think about the enormity of what the Founding Fathers did. Here's a colony of the greatest ruling power in the world (which also had the best military forces), and they muster up the courage to declare independence from that country, all in the name of the philosophical ideal of democracy. These people believed so strongly in the "unalienable rights" of each person that they intentionally took on Great Britain and all its power. "And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor." That last line is almost chilling to me because those men entered into that battle knowing full well that the odds were stacked against them and they still were so committed to their convictions that they pledged up front that they were in it to their last breath. All they had was their faith in their God that what they were doing was the right thing, and their wealth and lives, and they pledged it all to the cause of liberty. That's courage. I can only hope that I will be as valiant when called to such a task.

This had never been done before. Despite the many philosophical reasonings declaring that government should be by the voice of the people, it's not hard to see why monarchies pervaded. Sure, rulers and dynasties had been overthrown time and time again, but only to be replaced by a new ruler and/or ruling family. The American Declaration of Independence from its mother country was a huge event in history. It flew in the face of reason; and what's more surprising, it actually worked! There is no way that it should have worked, but it did. It is my personal belief that the American Revolution had a lot of help from Providence. You won't come to that conclusion by reading the textbooks of today, but if you hunt down the primary sources and read the first-hand accounts, you will find many eery "coincidences" and events that defy reasoning.

Another line from the Declaration really resonated with me:

Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be
changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath
shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than
to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But
when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same
Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their
right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards
for their future security.

Isn't that a candid observation? It made me think of the things and people in my own life that dictate to me what to do or promote suffering or ill will. This had made me think about my worth as a person and how it is my own responsibility to throw off the abusive things and relationships that are present in my life. I think the Declaration of Independence still serves us today in the role of affirming the worth of each individual.

Something that is bothering me though--if each individual has the inherent right to Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness, it doesn't sit well with me that women can just run amuck and abort their unborn children simply because they don't want them. I think a child in the womb has just as much right to Life, Freedom and the chance to find their own happiness as a child outside of the womb. It's not my intention to make this club into a hot political debate, but part of gaining wisdom and becoming truly educated does demand that we think through the hard questions of our day.

The Constitution of the United States:
We are blessed to live in a country that is governed by its own people, instead of the whims of a monarch or dictator. It's unfortunate that the two pre-eminent political parties of this country are becoming rather polarized, but it's still a blessing that the people can decide for its self what they would like to happen. I'm glad that I can voice my opinion and hopefully sway legislation to go in the direction that I believe is best. At least we have that. When laws are passed that I disagree with, I always have the hopeful chance of changing it for the better.

Some things that came up as I read through the Bill of Rights:

1. What, exactly, is speech? It is my understanding that the first amendment was created to allow people to speak out against the government without fear of persecution. The first amendment allows for free speech--and speech is speaking, oral communication, the written word and the use of gestures to communicate (ie. sign language). I cannot understand how it can be stretched to cover pornography or offensive art and photographs.
   I attended my church's General Conference a few years back, and at the conclusion of the session I walked out and saw the usual throng of protesters--and one group had this huge banner of a full-color, dismembered fetus as a way to protest against abortion. It was grotesque. And it pained my heart to look into the crowd of my fellow church members and to see the multitude of young children who were witnessing that image. I don't think free speech necessarily covers the use of images--a banner with the words "Abortion is wrong," or something like that, would have been perfectly acceptable. (And why in the world was an pro-life group protesting a church that also opposes abortion?)
   Free speech also doesn't give free license to artists to flaunt indecency. Lyrics are covered by the amendment, but I highly doubt that the raunchy "bump & grind" theatrics of many concerts come even remotely close to being a form of speech.
2. The second amendment gives us the right to bear arms, and I am looked at like I have three heads if I say that I have a gun in my house, especially since I have young children. It's important that we keep arms in the event of emergencies and danger. What happens if our military is wiped out or our government is somehow overthrown? I am thankful for the guaranteed right to protect myself. Yes, guns in the wrong hands do a lot of damage. I can't fix that. But if there were more guns in the hands of the right people, what are the odds that the wrong people would be so eager to whip theirs out? How do you think the American Revolution would have turned out if all those farmers hadn't already had guns of their own? I consider it a patriotic duty to not only have a gun, but to also know how to use a gun well.
3. The fifth amendment has this one phrase that says a person should not "be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law..." and it made me think of Child Protection Services. I think it's fair to ascertain that my children are my "property," and I also think it completely goes against my Constitutional rights to snatch them out of my home simply because CPS thinks I'm guilty of a crime against them. Yes, CPS is a necessary in our society; but we've all heard tons of stories about children being ripped from their homes because CPS suspected abuse, and then those reports of abuse being unfounded. We are innocent until proven guilty, period. If I haven't been tried and convicted of child abuse, then no one has the right to take my children away from me. I admit, this particular example is a double-edged sword; we don't want children to stay within a potentially abusive situation, but we do have this right to our property and I think CPS's ability to remove children based upon suspicion is downright unconstitutional. (And no, I don't have a solution to the problem at the moment...except to perhaps, just maybe, gather enough evidence to arrest the offender and then keep them in jail until their trial?)

The Federalist Papers:
I was only able to read #1, 2 and 10. The thing that stuck with me after reading them was the necessity of good and virtuous people being involved in government. Our government was set up to weed out the bad politicians and to keep wicked people from positions of leadership, but it only works if the good and honest people rise up to the challenge and serve their country. The pervading opinion of politicians is that they're evil and horrible; and if that's the case, we have only ourselves to blame. The ideal politician is a humble, honest and good person; if you consider yourself one of those, perhaps you should be in politics.
I really liked the message of #10, about how our government protects against factions. Recently in my town, there were windmills installed to generate electricity in an environmentally-friendly manner. My goodness, you should have seen the fit that people threw over those things because they considered them to be an eyesore. The city had gone about getting the windmills approved in the correct governmental manner, but the people who didn't want them didn't show up to the meetings. Federalist paper #10 lauds the importance of the "common good." When you considered what the windmills could do for the town, at the expense of simply being an eyesore for a few people, it didn't make sense that the anti-windmill people should have been in such an uproar. We really do need a better commitment to the common good. (And yes, I can see the windmills from my house and they are an eyesore; but they're doing a good thing and I think that's more important than my view from my driveway.)

Whew, that's a long post. This has been good to really read these and then have to sit down and write about them because it forced me to really think about them. Hopefully you all feel the same way. Leave your (relevant) thoughts or a link to your own thought posts in the comments section and I'll choose from them on the 10th to send August's book to.

And speaking of August's book, the next historical event on the schedule is the French Revolution and we have three choices to vote on. Voting will end June 9th at 11:59pm.