Fall Into Reading: Wrap Up Post

Fall Into Reading has officially finished (well, it finished on the 20th, but being under the weather has made me a bit late).  Makes me a little sad.  It has been a challenge I have thoroughly enjoyed participating in this fall.  As the leaves have changed and the air grew colder, I snuggled and read, got to know my fellow bloggers and readers, and fully enjoyed taking this fall to read for fun.  I want to thank Katrina at Callapidder Days, who hosted the challenge, and I can't wait to participate in the next challenge she hosts.  Katrina posted a few questions as suggestions for a wrap up post.  So I thought i would include those here as well as the final list of the books I read this fall.


Did you finish reading all the books on your fall reading list? If not, why not?
I didn't finish all the books on my reading list, unfortunately.  I had no idea how many books I would have time to read, so I picked a random number and created my list from there.  Apparently I was a little too ambitious.  But that's ok.  Now, I know better.  As I am planning my challenges for next year, I am glad to know my limits and know where to challenge myself.

Did you stick to your original goals or did you change your list as you went along?
I tried to stick to my original list, but since I found other books along the way, I decided to just include them in my number.  About halfway through I figured out that I wasn't going to finish my list, so I gave up on my goal of the list and just tried to reach my goal of the reading 50 books.  I actually didn't reach either, but my number was closer because I included all the books I read.

What was your favorite book that you read this fall? Least favorite? Why?
Ah, I have to pick a favorite?!  Well, I'm not sure I could narrow it down, but some of my favorites were: Death Du Jour by Kathy Reichs, Evermore by Alyson Noel, and Just Listen by Sarah Dessen.  My least favorite was probably One Reckless Summer by Toni Blake.  My favorites were all novels that captivated me and touched me for one reason or another.  My least favorite - it was simply annoying to me.  I hate reading and skimming ahead just so I can say I finished the book.  When I stop reading for fun and just keep reading to get to the end of the story, that's when I know it's not a book for me.

Did you discover a new author or genre this fall? Did you love them? Not love them?
I discovered many new authors this fall: Alyson Noel, Kathy Reichs, Dean Koontz, Sarah Dessen, Sherryl Woods, Jane Porter, etc.  In fact, most of the novels I read this fall were from new-to-me authors.  I can't say I found a new genre, as young adult fiction and mystery have always been present for me.  I just never really dove into them like I did this fall.  But I found some great authors, some new on the scene, some older, but either way I am excited to keep reading from these new favorites of mine.

Did you learn something new because of Fall Into Reading 2010 – something about reading, about yourself, or about a topic you read about?
I learned a lot about different reading habits.  I have never stopped to think that others might read differently than me, and I find that incredibly fascinating.  Who knew that some people read books completely cover to cover?  And to find out that many people feel it's ok to not finish books?  (that helps me remember that reading is for fun, not have-tos).   I also got to have a good look at my own reading habits, which helps me predict books and posts for my blog as well as know how to predict my participation in challenges in the coming year.

What was your favorite thing about the challenge?
I believe my favorite thing about the challenge would be the weekly questions.  Though I wasn't able to participate each week, I greatly enjoyed Katrina's questions and getting to know other bloggers and readers.  Plus, it was a wonderful way for me to keep track with my progress and have a sense of accomplishment.  I look forward to Katrina's next challenge.

Books Read in Fall 2010:
1. The Scarlet Pimpernel - Baronnes Emmuska Orczy (review)
2. Sooner or Later - Debbie Macomber
3. Evermore - Alysson Noel (review)
4. The Snow Bride - Debbie Macomber (review)
5. The Inn at Eagle Point - Sherryl Woods (review)
6. Harbor Lights - Sherryl Woods
7. She's Gone Country - Jane Porter (review)
8. Twenty Wishes - Debbie Macomber (review)
9. Deja Dead - Kathy Reichs (review)
10. The Sparkling One - Susan Mallery (review)
11. Under Her Skin - Susan Mallery (review)
12. Masquerade - Melissa De La Cruz (review)
13. One Reckless Summer - Toni Blake (review)
14. A Whole New Light - Sandra Brown (review)
15. The Rose Red Bride - Claire Delacroix (review)
16. The Apothecary's Daughter - Julie Klassen (review)
17. The Catcher in the Rye - J. D. Salinger (review)
18. Odd Thomas - Dean Koontz (review)
19. Flowers on Main - Sherryl Woods
20. On the Steamy Side - Louisa Edwards (review)
21. Blue Moon - Alyson Noel (review)
22. Just Listen - Sarah Dressen (review)
23. Christmas Wishes - Debbie Macomber (review)
24. Home for the Holidays - Debbie Macomber (review)
25. Home for the Holidays - Johanna Lindsey (review)
26. Anne of Green Gables- L.M. Montegomery (review)
27. A Cedar Cove Christmas - Debbie Macomber
28. Death du Jour - Kathy Reichs
29. Poison Study - Maria V. Snyder
30. Girl v. Boy - Yvonne Collins and Sandy Rideout
31. The Perfect Christmas - Debbie Macomber (review)
32. The Christmas Dog - Melody Carlson

Thanks again everyone, and can't wait to participate in another challenge again soon!

Fall Into Reading: Questions (9)

Callapidder Days is currently hosting the Fall Into Reading Challenge.  It is a self-set challenge in that each participant sets a goal for his/herself of the number of books to read during the fall season (Sept. 22-Dec. 20).  Then the participants post about the novels and progress as much or little as they want with a wrap-up post at the end.  I have set a goal to read 50 books this fall.  You can read the full list here.  Callapidder Days also hosts a weekly question about Fall Into Reading, as another way for us to connect and such.

I can't believe that Fall Into Reading is almost over.  I gave up on finishing my list, especially since I sorta went MIA from the internet for several days.  But I have finished several books over the last couple of days, and I simply decided to include all books I read during this fall in my 50 books challenge.  I have had more fun that I could imagine doing this challenge, and I especially loved the weekly questions - as I felt they were a lot of fun and helped us get to know each other a little better.   I never really guess that people would read differently than me, but there are so many different ways to read.

Katrina decided to have several questions this week as a closer.  I will answer them all and try to be brief.  :)

1. Do you write in your books?
I have to say that sometimes I do write in my books.  It's a habit that I inherited from high school when I was studying literature and wrote notes in my books.  Now most of the writing I do is in classics when I'm attempting to really read and study the book.  I love to go back and reread my books to see the different notes I've written.  My handwriting and thoughts in high school were so cute.

2. Can you read in the car?
I can read in the car sometimes.  Sometimes it gives me a headache, but most of the time if I get to reading, I forget about the headache and get involved in the book.  I used to read all the time in the car when I was a kid.  We lived 30 minutes from everywhere, so most of my reading was in the car.  Now it's mostly when I'm on a road trip and someone else is driving (otherwise I listen to audiobooks).

3. Does the rest of your family enjoy reading?
Actually, my entire family loves to read except my brother.  We tease him about it mercilessly.  The family joke on Christmas is that we got him a book, as that's his idea of the worst present idea ever.  I learned to love to read when my mom started reading to me and my siblings as a child.  I'm grateful that my dad, sisters, and friends continued on with me and encouraged my love of read.

4. What’s the longest you’ve gone without reading?
Whew, a hard one for me.  I have to say that I've probably gone at least six months to a year without reading books for pleasure.  School did that to me in college, as I read so much nursing material that when I was off, all I wanted to do is sit on the couch, be a bum, and watch tv.  Now the most I go is probably just a day or two.

Normally I include something about my progress on Fall Into Reading, but I am going to save it for my final post.  I wanted to thank Katrina and everybody involved for making Fall into Reading so wonderful.  I truly enjoyed it and I can't wait until next year's challenges.  I got to meet some awesome people, and get to know many awesome people, new friends and old.  I'm excited to read everyone's wrap up posts!

Fall Into Reading: Questions (8)

Callapidder Days is currently hosting the Fall Into Reading Challenge.  It is a self-set challenge in that each participant sets a goal for his/herself of the number of books to read during the fall season (Sept. 22-Dec. 20).  Then the participants post about the novels and progress as much or little as they want with a wrap-up post at the end.  I have set a goal to read 50 books this fall.  You can read the full list here.  Callapidder Days also hosts a weekly question about Fall Into Reading, as another way for us to connect and such.

This week's question: Do you have multiple books going at once? Or do you prefer to stick to one book at a time?
 
Like many other readers, how I read my books depends on the type of book.  First of all, I always read more than one non-fiction book at a time.  I have trouble keeping focused with non-fiction, so I often read it over a long period of time.  With fiction, it mostly depends.  I used to say that I always read one book at a time, but I've found that not to be completely true now.  It depends on the type of fiction, mostly if it is a slow or fast read.  Some books are slower reads for me, the writing is generally better, and I can't "speed read" the book and get the story.  I have to slow down and take all of the details in.  I've found both Odd Thomas and Anne of Green Gables to be that way.  However, a lot of the Christmas romances I've been reading, I read quickly.  So I find if I am reading a slower book, I often take a little time off, so to speak.  I'll read a quick read or two, and then get back to my focused reading.  It just depends on the mood I'm in.

Books Read so Far:
1. The Scarlet Pimpernel - Baronnes Emmuska Orczy (review)
2. Sooner or Later - Debbie Macomber
3. Evermore - Alysson Noel (review)
4. The Snow Bride - Debbie Macomber (review)
5. The Inn at Eagle Point - Sherryl Woods (review)
6. Harbor Lights - Sherryl Woods
7. She's Gone Country - Jane Porter (review)
8. Twenty Wishes - Debbie Macomber (review)
9. Deja Dead - Kathy Reichs (review)
10. The Sparkling One - Susan Mallery (review)
11. Under Her Skin - Susan Mallery (review)
12. Masquerade - Melissa De La Cruz (review)
13. One Reckless Summer - Toni Blake (review)
14. A Whole New Light - Sandra Brown (review)
15. The Rose Red Bride - Claire Delacroix (review)
16. The Apothecary's Daughter - Julie Klassen (review)
17. The Catcher in the Rye - J. D. Salinger (review)
18. Odd Thomas - Dean Koontz (review)

Bonus: (i.e. books not on my list, but that I've finished reading in this time period)
1. Flowers on Main - Sherryl Woods
2. On the Steamy Side - Louisa Edwards (review)
3. Blue Moon - Alyson Noel (review)
5. Just Listen - Sarah Dressen (review)
6. Christmas Wishes - Debbie Macomber (review)
7. Home for the Holidays - Debbie Macomber

Progress: 18 down, 32 to go

What about you?  Do you read one book at a time?  Or do you have multiple books on your TBR pile?  How's everyone's progress going?  I think I might have to be realistic about finishing my list, so I might include my "bonus" books in my number count (25 down, 25 to go).  Maybe I was a little too ambitious.  But oh well - after all, it's all about having fun, anyway.

Fall Into Reading: Questions (7)

 
I'm a little behind this week on posting, but I was traveling for a bit.  I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving.  And those who are out experiencing Black Friday, yah for you!  I'm comfy, sitting by the fire, enjoying my day off.  :)  Black Friday is just not for me.

Callapidder Days is currently hosting the Fall Into Reading Challenge.  It is a self-set challenge in that each participant sets a goal for his/herself of the number of books to read during the fall season (Sept. 22-Dec. 20).  Then the participants post about the novels and progress as much or little as they want with a wrap-up post at the end.  I have set a goal to read 50 books this fall.  You can read the full list here.  Callapidder Days also hosts a weekly question about Fall Into Reading, as another way for us to connect and such.

This week's question: Once you begin a book, do you feel compelled to finish it? Or have you been known to give up in the middle of a book, to walk away from a book that is just too annoying, boring, etc.?

I have to say that I feel compelled to finish most books.  It's still hard for me to remember that I don't have to read anything.  That I get to read what I want to read.  I think it's part of being out of school: a little freedom to make me skip.  But the way I deal with it is that if I am not enjoying a book, I set the book down for a while and perhaps come back to it later.  I have two books "on hold" right now: The Second Coming by David Burton and House Rules by Jodi Piccoult.  The Second Coming is one I won in a giveaway, and I just can't get into it.  I'll read like a chapter or so every so often, and I just can't make myself read it right now.  House Rules is one I'm guaranteed to go back to; I just wasn't in the mood for it when I picked it up.  Most of the time, I'll go back to a book later and be really into it and finish it quickly.  I haven't found one I just couldn't finish yet, but that's not say that I won't.  How about you?  Anyone give up on books?  Or are you like me, and feel like you need to finish a book?

Books Read so Far:
1. The Scarlet Pimpernel - Baronnes Emmuska Orczy (review)
2. Sooner or Later - Debbie Macomber
3. Evermore - Alysson Noel (review)
4. The Snow Bride - Debbie Macomber (review)
5. The Inn at Eagle Point - Sherryl Woods (review)
6. Harbor Lights - Sherryl Woods
7. She's Gone Country - Jane Porter (review)
8. Twenty Wishes - Debbie Macomber (review)
9. Deja Dead - Kathy Reichs (review)
10. The Sparkling One - Susan Mallery (review)
11. Under Her Skin - Susan Mallery (review)
12. Masquerade - Melissa De La Cruz (review)
13. One Reckless Summer - Toni Blake (review)
14. A Whole New Light - Sandra Brown (review)
15. The Rose Red Bride - Claire Delacroix (review)
16. The Apothecary's Daughter - Julie Klassen (review)
17. The Catcher in the Rye - J. D. Salinger (review)
18. Odd Thomas - Dean Koontz

Bonus: (i.e. books not on my list, but that I've finished reading in this time period)
1. Flowers on Main - Sherryl Woods
2. On the Steamy Side - Louisa Edwards (review)
3. Blue Moon - Alyson Noel (review)
5. Just Listen - Sarah Dressen (review)
6. Christmas Wishes - Debbie Macomber

Progress: 18 down, 32 to go

Fall Into Reading: Questions (6)

 

Callapidder Days is currently hosting the Fall Into Reading Challenge.  It is a self-set challenge in that each participant sets a goal for his/herself of the number of books to read during the fall season (Sept. 22-Dec. 20).  Then the participants post about the novels and progress as much or little as they want with a wrap-up post at the end.  I have set a goal to read 50 books this fall.  You can read the full list here.  Callapidder Days also hosts a weekly question about Fall Into Reading, as another way for us to connect and such.

This week's question: Where do you get the books you read? Are you a faithful library patron? Or maybe a bookstore junkie? Do you exchange books with friends or family members?

Such a great question!  Unfortunately, I am not a faithful library patron.  Though I want to be!  I recently moved to a new city, and I just haven't had the time to go check out the library.  I'm going to try to go tomorrow.  Though, as of right now, I am trying to get through several of the books I already own on my shelves.  That's what my goal with this challenge was - to read all of the books I've already purchased.  Right now, for new books, I am going to a Goodreads swap phase.  I stumbled upon the swap recently, and I feel in love.  I also have a kindle.  Mostly I use my kindle when I can't find the books on swap, as they are generally cheaper than finding them in a bookstore.  Though I don't have the money to be a faithful bookstore junkie, that doesn't mean I cannot be found browsing the shelves at a good Barnes and Noble just because I love bookstores.  Since I am new to this city, I haven't had time to explore the big and little bookstores to find a favorite yet - so I haven't been in a while.  But I just love the smell of bookshelves and new (or new to me) books.  There's just something wonderfully peaceful about a bookstore.  Sometimes I go and browse and place a bunch of fun books on my goodreads list to buy next time just for the quiet and wonderful atmosphere of being surrounded by books.  Thank goodness for the Goodreads iphone app.  I use it religiously to keep track of books I want to read during my "window shopping" bookstore adventures.

What about you?  Any religious library users?  Are any of you addicted to Swap like me?  Wherever you get your books, I hope you enjoy reading them this week!

Books Read so Far:
1. The Scarlet Pimpernel - Baronnes Emmuska Orczy (review)
2. Sooner or Later - Debbie Macomber
3. Evermore - Alysson Noel (review)
4. The Snow Bride - Debbie Macomber (review)
5. The Inn at Eagle Point - Sherryl Woods (review)
6. Harbor Lights - Sherryl Woods
7. She's Gone Country - Jane Porter (review)
8. Twenty Wishes - Debbie Macomber (review)
9. Deja Dead - Kathy Reichs (review)
10. The Sparkling One - Susan Mallery (review)
11. Under Her Skin - Susan Mallery (review)
12. Masquerade - Melissa De La Cruz (review)
13. One Reckless Summer - Toni Blake (review)
14. A Whole New Light - Sandra Brown (review)
15. The Rose Red Bride - Claire Delacroix (review)
16. The Apothecary's Daughter - Julie Klassen (review)
17. The Catcher in the Rye - J. D. Salinger (review)

Bonus: (i.e. books not on my list, but that I've finished reading in this time period)
1. Flowers on Main - Sherryl Woods
2. On the Steamy Side - Louisa Edwards (review)
3. Blue Moon - Alyson Noel (review)


Progress: 17 down, 33 to go

Whew I need to get reading!  I still have a lot to go. How goes your goals?  Anybody ridiculously behind like me?

Fall Into Reading: Questions (5)

 

Callapidder Days is currently hosting the Fall Into Reading Challenge.  It is a self-set challenge in that each participant sets a goal for his/herself of the number of books to read during the fall season (Sept. 22-Dec. 20).  Then the participants post about the novels and progress as much or little as they want with a wrap-up post at the end.  I have set a goal to read 50 books this fall.  You can read the full list here.  Callapidder Days also hosts a weekly question about Fall Into Reading, as another way for us to connect and such.

This week's question: How did you get into reading? When and how/why did you really become “a reader”?

I first got into reading as a child.  My mom read to me and my siblings from an early age, and I can still remember begging her to read just one more chapter before bedtime.  I think she started my love of reading then.  I was a bookworm while in elementary and middle school.  But in high school and college, my studies sort of took over.  I started back to reading just recently after I finished college.  So I guess I've been a reader almost all of my life.  I am happy to say that college did not ruin reading for me, and I am so glad to be an avid reader once again.  Having moved to a new place has given me the opportunity to have more time to read.  And I'm loving it.

What about you?  When did you start reading?  And how's Fall Into Reading going for you?  I'm not as far on my list as I wish I was, but I'm still very much enjoying this fall and my reading, so I guess that's all that counts.

Books Read so Far:
1. The Scarlet Pimpernel - Baronnes Emmuska Orczy (review)
2. Sooner or Later - Debbie Macomber
3. Evermore - Alysson Noel (review)
4. The Snow Bride - Debbie Macomber (review)
5. The Inn at Eagle Point - Sherryl Woods (review)
6. Harbor Lights - Sherryl Woods
7. She's Gone Country - Jane Porter (review)
8. Twenty Wishes - Debbie Macomber (review)
9. Deja Dead - Kathy Reichs (review)
10. The Sparkling One - Susan Mallery (review)
11. Under Her Skin - Susan Mallery (review)
12. Masquerade - Melissa De La Cruz (review)
13. One Reckless Summer - Toni Blake (review)
14. A Whole New Light - Sandra Brown (review)
15. The Rose Red Bride - Claire Delacroix (review)
16. The Apothecary's Daughter - Julie Klassen (review)

Bonus: (i.e. books not on my list, but that I've finished reading in this time period)
1. Flowers on Main - Sherryl Woods
2. On the Steamy Side - Louisa Edwards (review)
3. Blue Moon - Alyson Noel (review)

Progress: 16 down, 34 to go

Fall Into Reading: Questions (4)

Callapidder Days is currently hosting the Fall Into Reading Challenge.  It is a self-set challenge in that each participant sets a goal for his/herself of the number of books to read during the fall season (Sept. 22-Dec. 20).  Then the participants post about the novels and progress as much or little as they want with a wrap-up post at the end.  I have set a goal to read 50 books this fall.  You can read the full list here.  Callapidder Days also hosts a weekly question about Fall Into Reading, as another way for us to connect and such.

This week's question:
Where do you love to read? Note: I don’t mean where do you actually do most of your reading, because that might be the carpool line, the work cafeteria, or even the bathroom (if you have to escape from a few small children in order to read a chapter of your book). I mean, what are a few of the places where you LOVE to read?

I have to say that I have a couple of places that I love to read, sadly few of them are in my regular reading spots.  I'm trying to resolve that, as I am making an effort to sit in one of them now while I work on my blog and read my books.
1) Oceanside in Oregon.  My family used to go to the Oregon coast every other year to spend time with extended family.  We would rent this same house that had bay windows with ledge-couches so you could sit and read while watching the ocean (and not have to worry about sand or water or etc.).  It was so perfect.  I find myself missing it at times.
2) My patio furniture.  Notice I didn't say my patio - as my patio furniture is residing in my room right now due to lack of house furniture.  But it is super comfy and was a present from my parents so it has a special place in my heart.  It's the perfect place to snuggle and read.
3) A cute little restaurant in my town.  It has the perfect atmosphere and it's a great place I can get a sandwich and read for several hours.  Plus, they have patio tables where I can sit outside if the weather is wonderful.  It's my favorite part about my new town.

What about you?  Where do you love to read?

Books Read so Far:
1. The Scarlet Pimpernel - Baronnes Emmuska Orczy (review)
2. Sooner or Later - Debbie Macomber
3. Evermore - Alysson Noel (review)
4. The Snow Bride - Debbie Macomber (review)
5. The Inn at Eagle Point - Sherryl Woods (review)
6. Harbor Lights - Sherryl Woods
7. She's Gone Country - Jane Porter (review)
8. Twenty Wishes - Debbie Macomber (review)
9. Deja Dead - Kathy Reichs (review)
10. The Sparkling One - Susan Mallery (review)
11. Under Her Skin - Susan Mallery (review)
12. The Apothecary's Daughter - Julie Klassen
13. Masquerade - Melissa De La Cruz (review)
14. One Reckless Summer - Toni Blake (review)
15. A Whole New Light - Sandra Brown (review)

Bonus: (i.e. books not on my list, but that I've finished reading in this time period)
1. Flowers on Main - Sherryl Woods
2. On the Steamy Side - Louisa Edwards (review)

Progress: 15 down, 35 to go

Fall Into Reading: Questions (3)

 Callapidder Days is currently hosting the Fall Into Reading Challenge.  It is a self-set challenge in that each participant sets a goal for his/herself of the number of books to read during the fall season (Sept. 22-Dec. 20).  Then the participants post about the novels and progress as much or little as they want with a wrap-up post at the end.  Callapidder Days also hosts a weekly question about Fall Into Reading, as another way for us to connect and such.

This week's question: When you read a book, do you read EVERYTHING? In other words, do you read the dedication, the acknowledgements, the foreword, the afterword, the prologue, the epilogue, the appendices, etc.? Or do you just read the “meat” of the book? Or is your approach somewhere in between?

I have to admit that what I read depends on my mood at the time.  A lot of times I read the dedication and the meat of the book.  I hate reading the Table of Contents because it almost ruins the book for me.  (Just like on Netflix I can't read the episode descriptions - to makes me not want to watch the episodes.  Or like how I don't like to watch the movies before I read the books, because then I won't read the books.  I just like not knowing what's going to happen).  I always read the prologue and epilogue.  I never have really thought that wasn't part of the meat of the book.  But sometimes I skip the dedication and acknowledgments because I can't wait to get into the book.  Other times I just want the book to be over, so I even skim the meat of the book.  Just depends on the mood and level of patience I have at the time.   Hm... so interesting to see how others read books.  I guess you could say that I read somewhere in between.


Books Read so Far:
1. The Scarlet Pimpernel - Baronnes Emmuska Orczy (review)
2. Sooner or Later - Debbie Macomber
3. Evermore - Alysson Noel (review)
4. The Snow Bride - Debbie Macomber (review)
5. The Inn at Eagle Point - Sherryl Woods (review)
6. Harbor Lights - Sherryl Woods
7. She's Gone Country - Jane Porter (review)
8. Twenty Wishes - Debbie Macomber (review)
9. Deja Dead - Kathy Reichs (review)
10. The Sparkling One - Susan Mallery (review)
11. Under Her Skin - Susan Mallery (review)

Bonus: (i.e. books not on my list, but that I've finished reading in this time period)
1. Flowers on Main - Sherryl Woods
2. On the Steamy Side - Louisa Edwards

Progress: 11 down, 39 to go

And just for fun: Bennett's celebrating October and Halloween!

I realize he's a dog and all - but I don't have kids, so I have fun with my puppy.  Plus, it helps keep him warm.  And isn't he cute?!

His shirt even glows in the dark!

Fall Into Reading: Questions (3)

Goodness, it has been one crazy week.  I've had a friend's computer die - so I've been without a computer due to mine being on loan.  I am going crazy!  I have never realized how much I depend on my computer to connect with the world, even if it is to just check my email.   But I have been reading some recently, so I'll hopefully have some new reviews and such to post soon.  I'm sorry I dropped off the map for a bit - but I'm back and I hope everyone has had a great week of reading.

Callapidder Days is currently hosting the Fall Into Reading Challenge.  It is a self-set challenge in that each participant sets a goal for his/herself of the number of books to read during the fall season (Sept. 22-Dec. 20).  Then the participants post about the novels and progress as much or little as they want with a wrap-up post at the end.  Callapidder Days also hosts a weekly question about Fall Into Reading, as another way for us to connect and such.

This week's question:  Do you ever dog-ear the corners of book pages to mark your spot?  Or are you a faithful bookmark user, refusing to damage the pages of your books?  Or do you have another way to keep track of where you are in a book?

I have to admit that I am a dog-earer.  The majority of books that I read are mine so if I cannot find a piece of paper or something to keep my spot, I fold down the pages.  But I have to admit that I only fold the top bit.  When I get library books that have half of the page down and there is a crease down the middle of the page, that drives me up the wall.  That being said, when the book is someone else's book or a library book, I definitely use a piece of paper or something to keep track.  I used bookmarks as a child, but I lost them repeatedly so I finally just gave up.  Now I use whatever is handy - receipts, envelops, post-its, my phone, you know - just whatever.  To me, having some of the pages bent and the spine creased makes the book used and unique.  My favorite books are the ones that have been written in and read so many times they are almost falling apart.  I can't stand when my books have been spilled on, but just general wear-and-tear makes me love them all the more.

My progress:

My goal this fall is to read 50 books. I have posted the list here, but on these question posts, I also wanted to post something about my progress. I probably will not post a review about all of the books I read, so this is my virtual way of cross these books off of my list.  I did not finish as many as I wanted to this week, but it's a new week with more time for reading.  I'm currently reading Deja Dead by Kathy Reichs, and I'm about half way finished - so a review should be coming soon. 

Books Read so Far:
1. The Scarlet Pimpernel - Baronnes Emmuska Orczy (review)
2. Sooner or Later - Debbie Macomber
3. Evermore - Alysson Noel (review)
4. The Snow Bride - Debbie Macomber (review)
5. The Inn at Eagle Point - Sherryl Woods (review)
6. Harbor Lights - Sherryl Woods
7. She's Gone Country - Jane Porter (review)
8. Twenty Wishes - Debbie Macomber (review)

Bonus: (i.e. books not on my list, but that I've finished reading in this time period)
1. Flowers on Main - Sherryl Woods
2. On the Steamy Side - Louisa Edwards

Progress: 8 down, 42 to go
 
How about everyone else?  How are you progressing on the Fall Into Reading challenge, if you are participating?  How was your reading this week?

Fall Into Reading: Questions (2)

Fall Into Reading 2010 is a challenge hosted by Callapidder Days.  It is a self-set challenge in that each participant sets a goal for his/herself of the number of books to read during the fall season (Sept. 22-Dec. 20).  Then the participants post about the novels and progress as much or little as they want with a wrap-up post at the end.  Callapidder Days also hosts a weekly question about Fall Into Reading, as another way for us to connect and such.

This weeks question: Do you eat and/or drink while reading?  Or do you keep food and liquids away from your books?

Personally, I eat and drink during everything I do, reading is no exception.  I'll always munching on something, whether it be popcorn (not my favorite due to the grease factor - but sometimes I crave it), cereal, bread, candy, or whatever else is in my apartment.  Plus, I drink water and coke all the time, so chances are there is some glass of water (hopefully) somewhere close.  Now that fall and winter are coming, that glass of water is often times replaced with a hot cup of tea.   I've been known to spill a few times, but considering the amount of snacking I do when reading, I've destroyed very few books.  I think the snacking concept comes from nursing school when I never actually took a break to eat lunch/dinner/breakfast/snacks.  So reading just went along in the same mind set.


My progress:
My goal this fall is to read 50 books.  I have posted the list here, but on these question posts, I also wanted to post something about my progress.  I probably will not post a review about all of the books I read, so this is my virtual way of cross these books off of my list.

Books Read so Far:
1. The Scarlet Pimpernel - Baronnes Emmuska Orczy (review)
2. Sooner or Later - Debbie Macomber
3. Evermore - Alysson Noel (review)
4. The Snow Bride - Debbie Macomber
5. The Inn at Eagle Point - Sherryl Woods
6. Harbor Lights -  Sherryl Woods
7. She's Gone Country - Jane Porter (review)

Bonus: (i.e. books not on my list, but that I've finished reading in this time period)
1. Flowers on Main - Sherryl Woods
2. On the Steamy Side - Louisa Edwards

Progress: 7 down, 43 to go

Fall Into Reading: Questions (1)

So I'm playing a bit of catch up this week.  I work nights, and this week I worked three in a row.  I tend to put life on hold when I work several shifts in a row, mostly because all I do is sleep and work.  But now I have five days off, so I'm excited to catch up and read, read, read!  Callapidder Days is hosting Fall Into Reading 2010, and each Tuesday she posts a question for us to share about our reading adventures.  Even though I'm a little late, I wanted to post anyway.

Question: What do you think about e-books?  Do you engage in e-reading or do you prefer to stick to good ol' physical books?

My answer: I have to say that I love e-books.  I own a kindle (a graduation present), and I aboslutely love it.  I can't read books on my computer as it ends up making my head hurt.  But the kindle is perfect for me in that there is no backing lighting.  Plus, it keeps my one lonely sad bookshelf from being completely overloaded and stuffed.   And I happen to be a choices type of person, so my kindle is perfect for traveling because I can take several books with me at once.  If you are a Gilmore Girls fan, there is an episdoe when Rory is trying to stuff all of her books into her backpack.  She takes a memoir, a fiction novel, a short stories book, a bus book, etc.  And while her mom is making fun of her, she says that she takes them all because she may not be in the mood for short stories or non-fiction.  That totally is me.  Though I only take one book to work with me, on a trip, I love options, especially if I am to finish a book anytime soon.  While I normally don't read more than one book at a time, picking out the next book is a bear!  So the long, short of it is: I love e-books.  But I still happen to buy physical books as well, especially if they are special to me.  I have my list of classics and favorite books on the top shelf of my bookshelf - and those are the ones where I have read them over and over again, and can hug them to myself and remember the good times with those favorite characters.  So no, I'm not ready to trade in my bookshelf for only my kindle.  But it does make my luggage a heck of a lot lighter!

My progress:
My goal this fall is to read 50 books.  I have posted the list here, but on these question posts, I also wanted to post something about my progress.  I probably will not post a review about all of the books I read, so this is my virtual way of cross these books off of my list. 

Books Read so Far:
1. The Scarlet Pimpernel - Baronnes Emmuska Orczy (review)
2. Sooner or Later - Debbie Macomber
3. Evermore - Alysson Noel (review to be posted soon)
4. The Snow Bride - Debbie Macomber
Progress: 4 down, 46 to go

Fall Into Reading 2010

As usual, I am wide awake this evening; and I have been browsing the blogs that I follow and finding all kinds of books I want to read.  I stumbled upon Crystal's My Reading Room, which has a post dedicated to a Fall Challenge.  Me, being a list person, I happen to LOVE challenges.  If I don't want to do something, I only add it to a list, make it a goal, and give myself a prize - and I'm all over it.  Besides loving challenges, I decided to take part into the Fall Into Reading challenge, which is hosted by Callapidder Days, because I also think it is a great idea.  Being newly out of college, fall is a time I associate with school, learning, and reading.  Since I am no longer in school, I love the idea of challenging myself to stay into reading and continuing to learn.  Plus, it keeps me from being a couch potato and constantly watching the TV.  Working on a challenge with other readers and sharing the books we read an thoughts about those books is just an added plus!  So here's my goal: 50 books between now (October 1, 2010) and December 22, 2010.  I'm going to also give myself the challenge to make some of those books be the books I "need" to read from other lists I've started.  (See my post New Thoughts for more info on my list-making obsession and other book goals I've set.)  Since I've already read a few from those lists, I will exclude those on this challenge and add several other books from my forever-growing TBR pile.  Alright, I'll stop rambling and list my books, in no particular order (I've linked the books to goodreads description pages):




1. Gone with the Wind - Margaret Mitchel

2. Little Women - Louisa May Alcott

3. The Color Purple - Alice Walker

4. The Poisonwood Bible - Barbara Kingsolver

5. The Handmaid's Tale - Margaret Atwood

6. Catch 22 - Joseph Heller
7. The Catcher in the Rye - J. D. Salinger

8. The Name of the Rose - Umberto Eco

9. Portrait of a Lady - Henry James

10. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time - Mark Haddon

11. The Reader - Bernhard Schlink

12. The Brothers Karamazov - Fyodor Dostoevsky

13. Lolita  - Vladimir Nabokov

14. Lord of the Flies - William Golding

15. A Separate Peace - John Knowles

16. The Joy Luck Club - Amy Tan

17. The Dirty Secrets Club - Meg Gardiner

18. The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay - Michael Chabon

19. The True and Outstanding Adventures of the Hunt Sisters - Elisabeth Robinson

20. Bourne Supremacy - Robert Ludlum

21. Eragon - Christopher Paolini

22. The Emperor's Children - Claire Messud

23. The Lovely Bones - Alice Sebold

24. The Phantom of the Opera - Gaston Leroux

25. House Rules - Jodi Piccoult

26. The Second Coming - David Burton

27. The Apothecary's Daughter - Julie Klassen

28. The Historian - Elizabeth Kostova

29. The Shadow of Your Smile - Mary Higgins Clark

30. The Shack - William Young

31. The Scarlet Pimpernel - Baroness Emmuska Orczy

32. A Beautiful Blue Death - Charles Finch

33. The September Society - Charles Finch

34. The Red Rose Bride - Claire Delacroix 

35. Sooner or Later - Debbie Macromber 

36. Twenty Wishes - Debbie Macromber

37. A Whole New Light - Sandra Brown

38. Under Her Skin - Susan Mallery

39. The Inn at Eagle Point - Sherryl Woods

40. Harbor Lights - Sherryl Woods

41. Masquerade - Melissa De La Cruz

42. Deja Dead - Kathy Reichs

43. One Reckless Summer - Toni Blake

44. Odd Thomas - Dean Koontz

45. She's Gone Country - Jane Porter

46. Evermore - Alyson Noel

47. Blindness - Jose Saramago

48. Home for the Holidays  - Johanna Lindsey

49. The Snow Bride - Debbie Macomber

50. The Sparkling One - Susan Mallery







Bonus:

51. Anna Karenina - Leo Tolstoy

52. Wives and Daughters - Elizabeth Gaskell

Goodness!  Seems like a lot more once I write down all of the books I want to read.  I'm sure this list will change, as I find other books I want to read first.  But it's a starting list.  Well - better get started!  I'll be back when I get my nose out of a book....

I even tired Bennett out tonight....