Welcome to the Bleak House read-a-long! We’re reading this book through March, April, and May. You can see the reading schedule and guidelines on the Starting Post Page.

Week Thirteen: Read to The End

Discussion:

It’s always a bit sad to finish these longer Read-a-Longs. Finishing a story that has played a role in your life for three months is a little like saying goodbye to a friend (or friends). Turning the last page of Bleak House was a bittersweet thing for me. While relieved to have finished this tome, I have gotten very used to visiting with these characters and am sad to see them go.

It’s difficult to summarize a book of not only this length, but also with varying plots and an abundance of characters. It will have to suffice to say that I am pleased to have read it – and pleased that it was my first Dickens (not only because of the chart a few weeks back saying it is the most Dickensian of his novels, but also because it is exactly what I thought one of his novels would be like).

I think the ending may have been my favorite reading of all. Dickens sure does know how to wrap up a story. Thanks to those of you who set me straight last week – I missed the fact that Sir Leicester had a stroke. If I hadn’t had that pointed out to me, this week’s reading wouldn’t have been as touching as it was (extra points for reading with other people). Though it was sad to see Richard go (actually, it didn’t really feel very sad except for the very ending in which he says goodbye to Jarndyce), many had already predicted it would happen. I’m a bit surprised at how tidily much of the loose ends tied up. The not so great characters got theirs. The great characters ended well (except for Jo, of course, but that was weeks ago). I had somewhat guessed that Jarndyce would surprise Esther by connecting her with Woodcourt – but I still enjoyed the way it was done. And I enjoy the neat as a bow way that Dickens then pushed Jarndyce into the father role for them all (and gave Esther the support of a family and a happy marriage, with two little girls!). I even enjoyed the revenge gotten on Mr. Guppy. (Oh, Mr. Guppy, what were you thinking??)

Perhaps my favorite ending was that of Sir Leicester and Mr. Boythorn – if only because it seemed the cleverest. What a subtle and wonderful way to show that sometimes those relationships that bother us so much in real life are a necessary tie to another person that we actually need. And to come full circle with these two men (who had both suffered by the loss of sisters, none-the-less!) was very satisfying.

The only part I wonder about is why Dickens chose to end it the way he did… as if Esther was in the middle of her sentence. Any thoughts on that?

So, my friends, what didi you think? Thank you so much for reading along with me! I had a fantastic time discussing this book with you all – congratulations for making it through! Those of you reading On the Road, sign ups will be up on Monday. Enjoy this week of no reading, and I’ll see you at the beginning of June.

I figured we could answer these questions one last time for the book overall…

• Favorite character of the book? Mr. Jarndyce. After reading the book in it’s entirety I can honestly say I love him best. What a good, good man.
• Least favorite character of the book? Mr. Skimpole, far and away the worst.
• Most confusing part of the book? I’d have to say Sir Leicester’s stroke – I don’t know how, but I fully managed to miss that he had had one.
• Best passage of the book? I’m pretty sure I couldn’t pick. But from this last week – “As little does he think how near together he and his antagonist have suffered, in the fortunes of two sisters; and his antagonist, who knows it now, is not the man to tell him. So the quarrel goes on to the satisfaction of both.”
• Nomination for overall ‘Hypocrite of the Week Award’? I’m actually going to say Volumina. She was always trying to be something she wasn’t (and important person).

Who’s Reading Along:

** Please don’t forget to come to this blog each Friday and share your thoughts in the comments section of the weekly Bleak House discussion (see below for more information).**

Patty@taleofthreecities
JacquelineM (@jackiemania)
Jeremy
Leah Mosher
Lisa
Ashley J.
Ashley
thetruebookaddict
Susan B.
Meg @ A Bookish Affair
Roberta
JoonAnn
Scribacchina
Hannah

Friendly Reminders:

• If you are participating and I don’t have you on this list, please let me know in the comments section. I did not include people who said ‘maybe’ so if you have changed your mind and are definitely reading along with us, let me know so I can add you. Also, if you are not going to be able to join us anymore please let me know and I will take you off the list. 
• Comments from the previous week’s reading will be closing Thursday afternoon (before the next discussion takes place on Friday). If you would like to be part of the discussion, please remember to comment before then. 
• Each week, on Friday, share your thoughts about the previous week’s reading. If you are stuck on what to comment about, you can respond to my post or others’ comments. Regardless, you MUST check in each week (two weeks without a response and you will be taken off of the list — see below for details on why). You may have only one “off week” (which may not be the last week of reading for obvious reasons) and still be kept on the list, but you must let me know in the comment section by saying something like, “I’m catching up,” or “I’m still reading.” ***for all week’s discussions please refrain from posting ahead, even if you have read ahead, as to not spoil the book for others***
• If you are a blogger you may post a link to your blog if you are posting about each of the each week’s reading. If I, or other readers, have extra time we will gladly try to visit your blog; however, you must make sure to share your thoughts here on this blog, and be part of the main conversation or your comment will not be counted.
• If you go for two weeks without commenting in my weekly update comments section, I will assume you are no longer participating and will take you off of the list (*NEW GUIDELINE*, in order to get back onthe list, you need to a.) Have missed no more than two weeks of discussion, b.) Let me know you would like to be on the list again, and c.) consistently be part of the discussion for the next two weeks after requesting to be put back on the list.). This is in no way to be discouraging, but helps to keep the read-a-long organized (and helps me remember who’s completed what read-a-long…there (ahem) might be something fun for different levels of participants at the end of the year! Thanks!

As I get older, I find it harder to read the quintessential “beach reads” that once filled my summer bag. I increasingly find that plot is more important and I need something that is not only page-turning, but substantial as well; otherwise, I get distracted and reading begins to feel like a chore rather than a treat (or one of the, ugh, Hate Reads so endearingly coined in Girls). And I do believe that part of what’s fun about summer reading is not just the fact that some of us are on vacations, but the idea that escaping into a book makes you feel like you’re on vacation – even when you’re not.

The books I am recommending to you to get your summer started are not necessarily new and they aren’t necessarily thin. There is not even a guarantee for happy endings. They are, however, absorbing – and you won’t even be able to lift your eyes from them long enough to realize your couch/backyard/pool isn’t a warm sandy beach overlooking the Pacific.

1/ Attachemnts :: love story told by the male perspective.
2/ The Language of Flowers :: a beautiful tale of a damaged girl who learns how to love by using flowers to express herself
3/ Maine :: story of an east coast family told by three generations of its women
4/ The Elegance of the Hedgehog :: thought provoking, entertaining, funny novel (originally in French)
5/ Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter :: a mesmerizing tale of growing up in the south and the legacies that can ruin a life
6/ Rules of Civility :: new york in the 1930′s – completely absorbing tale with a smart, engaging protagonist

Welcome to the Bleak House read-a-long! We’re reading this book through March, April, and May. You can see the reading schedule and guidelines on the Starting Post Page.

Week Twelve: Read to Chapter Sixty-One

Discussion:

Really quickly: Don’t forget to weigh in on what you think about the 2012 Read-a-Long prize.

I have a house guest at the moment, so my write up will need to wait an extra day… however, talk amongst yourselves and I’ll be here shortly.

By the way, did anyone else giggle at the mention of Michael Jackson in this week’s reading? Oh that Dickens — so ahead of his time.

Does it bother anybody else that Esther still calls her fiancé her guardian? It’s a little incestuous because it does confirm that she thinks of him more as a parental figure than a lover.

The scene at Jenny’s house… her husband is terrible. I want Esther to rescue those women and bring them with her to Bleak House. What a sad life they have where they are.

Oh poor Sir Leicester. I felt bad for him (truly), but the whole writing on the slate because he was too overcome to talk made me giggle a little, especially When Volumnia was speaking for him. “‘He is asleep.’ In disproof of which superfluous remark, Sir Leicester has indignantly written on the slate, ‘I am not.’” What is going to happen to this poor old man now that his wife is gone?

Poor Esther, searching until she is wet and tired to the bone, only to find Lady Dedlock dead. I actually didn’t expect that – I thought we would have found her alive (ill, maybe, but alive). I have to say, that was one heck of a search for a dead character. I’m not sure we would have been taken through so many chapters now-a-days only to have what we’re searching for be found and summed up in three sentences. It’s an interesting study on how writing has changed. The build-up was key in Dickens writing, the outcome seems to be key in modern writing (either including a long build-up or on its own).

I must admit that by the end of this week’s reading, I was a bit tired of Dickens ability to say the same thing over and over for ten pages. In the five chapters that we read, not much actually happened. Lots of details about the search happened, but only one big plot point (ok, two if you count Ada’s pregnancy, which was basically a cliffhanger for this upcoming week’s reading). I do wonder what else Dickens has left to tell us! We shall soon see.

By the way, Mr. Jarndyce mentioned a Mrs. Woodcourt. Did Mr. Woodcourt get married and I missed it?

And, as always, the questions of the week…

• Favorite character of the week? Mr. Bucket – so determined to help.
• Least favorite character of the week? Jenny’s husband. Eck.
• Most confusing part this week? Did Mr. Woodcourt get married? Who’s Mrs. Woodcourt?
• Best passage of the week? Pretty much any having to do with Sir Leicester. I know he was in despair, but he (and Volumina actually) still made me giggle.
• This week’s nomination for ‘Hypocrite of the Week Award’? Hmm… maybe Volumina. Acting like she was wanting to help, but not really doing much of anything.

Who’s Reading Along:

** Please don’t forget to come to this blog each Friday and share your thoughts in the comments section of the weekly Bleak House discussion (see below for more information).**

Patty@taleofthreecities
JacquelineM (@jackiemania)
Jeremy
Leah Mosher
Lisa
Ashley J.
Ashley
thetruebookaddict
Susan B.
Meg @ A Bookish Affair
Roberta
JoonAnn
Scribacchina
Hannah

Friendly Reminders:

• If you are participating and I don’t have you on this list, please let me know in the comments section. I did not include people who said ‘maybe’ so if you have changed your mind and are definitely reading along with us, let me know so I can add you. Also, if you are not going to be able to join us anymore please let me know and I will take you off the list. 
• Comments from the previous week’s reading will be closing Thursday afternoon (before the next discussion takes place on Friday). If you would like to be part of the discussion, please remember to comment before then. 
• Each week, on Friday, share your thoughts about the previous week’s reading. If you are stuck on what to comment about, you can respond to my post or others’ comments. Regardless, you MUST check in each week (two weeks without a response and you will be taken off of the list — see below for details on why). You may have only one “off week” (which may not be the last week of reading for obvious reasons) and still be kept on the list, but you must let me know in the comment section by saying something like, “I’m catching up,” or “I’m still reading.” ***for all week’s discussions please refrain from posting ahead, even if you have read ahead, as to not spoil the book for others***
• If you are a blogger you may post a link to your blog if you are posting about each of the each week’s reading. If I, or other readers, have extra time we will gladly try to visit your blog; however, you must make sure to share your thoughts here on this blog, and be part of the main conversation or your comment will not be counted.
• If you go for two weeks without commenting in my weekly update comments section, I will assume you are no longer participating and will take you off of the list (*NEW GUIDELINE*, in order to get back onthe list, you need to a.) Have missed no more than two weeks of discussion, b.) Let me know you would like to be on the list again, and c.) consistently be part of the discussion for the next two weeks after requesting to be put back on the list.). This is in no way to be discouraging, but helps to keep the read-a-long organized (and helps me remember who’s completed what read-a-long…there (ahem) might be something fun for different levels of participants at the end of the year! Thanks!

I didn’t mention to the readers that I wanted to specifically give them something, because I didn’t know what it would be. Not a gift certificate, because that didn’t do it. I had thought of a few other things, but by the time the end of the year came along – I realized it wouldn’t work.

I’ve been brain storming and have figured out what I am going to do at the end of this year – and I’m really excited, I hope you are too! At the end of the year I will hold a giveaway that will contain something from each of the books we’ve read in the 2012 Read-a-Long series. It will not necessarily be books… it might be the movie version of one book, a tote bag featuring another, a cloth copy of a third, and so on. All fun, all different, and all representing the books we’ve read during the year. To be eligible for this giveaway, you must have read every book on the list. Since I am just now announcing this, I know it wouldn’t be fair to count the books we’ve done, so I am starting with the next Read-a-Long (starting this June). HOWEVER, there are a few of you who have read all of the books so far, and because you did it without even knowing there was a prize, you’ll get an extra entry into the pot (i.e. double your chances to win)!

Why am I doing this? A.) I think it’s fun, and B.) sometimes, in particular in the middle of a very long book, it might be tempting to give up – so this will act as a motivator during those times you feel like quitting. Just like with working out our bodies, I feel that it is important to work out our minds. That means reading books we may not read on our own, paying attention to them enough to be able to have a conversation about them (or at least ask questions), and gleaning a perspective that you wouldn’t have otherwise.

I don’t get anything for having more people join the Read-a-Longs, and I’m not interested in people joining just for the prize. This is for those of you who already join (or have joined) and need a little more encouragement to make it through on the weeks you’d rather close the book. I hope it’s a good incentive… I’m really excited to pick out the goodies!

Now… question for my Read-a-Longers. Do you want to know what the prize for each book is as we go along (after we finish the book- I won’t tell you before), or should it be a surprise at the end of the year? What would help you more? Let me know below and I’ll take your thoughts into consideration.

Welcome to the Bleak House read-a-long! We’re reading this book through March, April, and May. You can see the reading schedule and guidelines on the Starting Post Page.

Week Eleven: Read to Chapter Fifty-Six

Discussion:

This week was fun because it was the solving of the whodunit. For a moment there I thought Bucket was going to tell us Lady D did it, but then he threw in a left hook and gave us Hortense. Now…. do we think it was really Hortense? Is it as simple as that? My guess is yes, but I’m ready to be made a fool of.

The week started off on a funny note – the conversation between Mr. Vholes and Mr. Woodcourt was very humorous (the asking got the address), and I love Woodcourt a little bit more for going to see Richard. But then when Esther and Ada went to see Richard — well, let’s just say that’s why I said in the last paragraph that I was ready to be made a fool of (again)! Man, was I wrong last week! I thought Ada and Woodcourt had fallen in love but noooooo. I could punch Richard (and for that matter, Ava, though I think she’s just naive enough to be innocent in this situation). Let me be sure I understand – she ultimately married him so that her money could be his right? (I know she loved him and blah, blah, blah, but that was the reason they had to be married right away – correct?) Argh. I am starting to despise Richard. He’s not the hypocrite of the week, since we already knew he was a louse, but he’s the selfish jerk of the week for sure.

When did Esther start referring to Lady D as her mother (even in her head). She does this at the beginning of ‘Obstinacy’ (Chapter 52) and it stuck out at me. Are we to start thinking of them more in a more emotional way now? I can’t help but wonder why Dickens changed that over — or if I have just missed the fact that he changed it over awhile ago.

Oh and Mr. George! Ready to hang rather than try to get out of jail without the mystery being solved. I could just feel the Bagnets desperation in trying to get him to change his mind. Can you imagine hearing someone you love say that, while knowing they couldn’t possibly be guilty? Thank goodness Hortense gets it at the end of this week’s reading or I’d still be worried about George. The scene did endear the Bagnets to me even more than before, however (which was already quite a lot). When George asks Mr. Bagnet if he approves, Bagnet answers, ‘”Old girl…tell hi. Whether or not. It meets my approval.”‘ And then the end of the chapter where she sets off to find George’s mother; giving directions, rolling up her skirt, and taking off on her own — and her husband’s reaction to it (basically… can’t tell her what to do, she’ll tell me). I LOVE THE BAGNETS. 

The unoccupied carriages at Tulkinghorn’s funeral– because he didn’t actually have anyone who cared about him or because his family was far away? DO you think Sir Leicester arranged them? Interesting that they used to do that, and that they used to hire footmen to stand in as mourners. I wonder when these traditions went away (or are they still relevant in other places, jut not the US)?

Did the chapter ‘Springing a Mine’ remind anyone else of the scenes in horror movies where the killer finally explains all of the details and how they come together so that the audience can understand (kind of a this-is-how-I-tricked-you speech)? It did for me. (Although, of course, it was Mr. Bucket speaking and explaining). There were a few things that I hadn’t out together (from much earlier in the book) so I’m glad Dickens decided to do this… it helped put the story together for me. It also showed Bucket’s humor! The scene with him and Mr. Smallweed — LOVE. So funny! ‘”Now what have you got to say next?’ asks Mr. Bucket. ‘Now, don’t open your mouth too wide, because you don’t look handsome when you do it.’” And his description of the scene in which he employs his wife to help him made me laugh – I was picturing what it would look like and it made me eager to see how they did this scene in the BBC movie (can’t wait to watch it when we are finished reading).

Mrs. Snagsby thinks Jo is Mr. Snagsby’s son — what do we think of that? That’s why she followed them around. Makes more sense, but I don’t see how that would be true… we haven’t been given any reason to think it. Are we to take that seriously or was she just rambling?

The conversation between Hortense and Bucket at the end of her arrest gives a bit of testament to the way that Dickens seems to think about women… we are either madonnas, whores, or children — and we are either in a mother/daughter relationship or have cause to be jealous and hateful of each other. I’ve noticed this theme; is it the same in his other works?

You’ll see in my answers below that I didn’t fully understand the paragraphs leading up to Lady D. running away – that was the most confusing part for me this week. But wow – she ran away! I imagine this will make for some fun last two weeks of reading!

And, as always, the questions of the week…

• Favorite character of the week? Mr. Bucket – I’m actually finding him quite funny. The scene with his wife in bed (where he gave her the mission) was amusing… can’t wait to see how they did that in the movie.
• Least favorite character of the week? Hortense… just because she’s the obvious villain and I don’t dislike anyone else this week.
• Most confusing part this week? What happened right before Lady Dedlock wrote the letter to her husband at the very end of this week’s reading. I’m still a little confused – might have to re-read that section.
• Best passage of the week? The scene where Mr. bucket stuffed the sheet in his wife’s mouth to keep her from reacting to his secret idea… and the fact that she actually answered him with the sheet still in her mouth. That scene is in a tie with the scene with Mr. Bucket and Mr. Smallweed… too funny!
• This week’s nomination for ‘Hypocrite of the Week Award’? Hmmm… was there one?

Who’s Reading Along:

** Please don’t forget to come to this blog each Friday and share your thoughts in the comments section of the weekly Bleak House discussion (see below for more information).**

Patty@taleofthreecities
JacquelineM (@jackiemania)
Jeremy
Leah Mosher
Lisa
Ashley J.
Ashley
thetruebookaddict
Susan B.
Meg @ A Bookish Affair
Roberta
JoonAnn
Scribacchina
Hannah

Friendly Reminders:

• If you are participating and I don’t have you on this list, please let me know in the comments section. I did not include people who said ‘maybe’ so if you have changed your mind and are definitely reading along with us, let me know so I can add you. Also, if you are not going to be able to join us anymore please let me know and I will take you off the list. 
• Comments from the previous week’s reading will be closing Thursday afternoon (before the next discussion takes place on Friday). If you would like to be part of the discussion, please remember to comment before then. 
• Each week, on Friday, share your thoughts about the previous week’s reading. If you are stuck on what to comment about, you can respond to my post or others’ comments. Regardless, you MUST check in each week (two weeks without a response and you will be taken off of the list — see below for details on why). You may have only one “off week” (which may not be the last week of reading for obvious reasons) and still be kept on the list, but you must let me know in the comment section by saying something like, “I’m catching up,” or “I’m still reading.” ***for all week’s discussions please refrain from posting ahead, even if you have read ahead, as to not spoil the book for others***
• If you are a blogger you may post a link to your blog if you are posting about each of the each week’s reading. If I, or other readers, have extra time we will gladly try to visit your blog; however, you must make sure to share your thoughts here on this blog, and be part of the main conversation or your comment will not be counted.
• If you go for two weeks without commenting in my weekly update comments section, I will assume you are no longer participating and will take you off of the list (*NEW GUIDELINE*, in order to get back onthe list, you need to a.) Have missed no more than two weeks of discussion, b.) Let me know you would like to be on the list again, and c.) consistently be part of the discussion for the next two weeks after requesting to be put back on the list.). This is in no way to be discouraging, but helps to keep the read-a-long organized (and helps me remember who’s completed what read-a-long…there (ahem) might be something fun for different levels of participants at the end of the year! Thanks!

Welcome to the Bleak House read-a-long! We’re reading this book through March, April, and May. You can see the reading schedule and guidelines on the Starting Post Page.

Week Ten: Read to Chapter Fifty-One

Discussion:

People, we have only about 200 more pages, can you believe it?!?!?!? This week’s reading was intense. I just caught up on last week’s reading a couple of days ago and jumped into the conversation – then plunged right into this week’s reading. I have three chapters left (as of the writing of this post on Thursday evening), which will hopefully be completed by this (Friday) afternoon. I plan to come back and post my thoughts up here instead of just in the comments section because I have a LOT to say about this week. Wow, Charlie D… wow.

UPDATE: So obviously it took me a little longer than I thought to finish the reading (busy weekend). BUT, here I am now. What a week!

On thing that is difficult about this book is that there are so many characters and some of them play such small roles and disappear for enough length of time that it is necessary to use the character list more than usual. Is anyone else finding that to be true? That said, thank goodness for the character list  so I can keep on with the reading rather than flipping through pages to remind myself. And though this can make the reading a slight bit more difficult, I also like the fact that old characters come back around for a visit. I especially like how Dickens let’s us see them through new eyes – like the Brickmaker’s wife (or Jo!). We come upon her through Woodcourt’s point of view and then we recognize her because we already know her. Love that.

Is it just me or is Mr. Vholes more than a little creepy? The chapter where he came to speak to Jarndyce and Esther solidified it. I understand that he is doing his job (and really, we can’t expect him to get personally involved in saving Richard), but the description of him was enough to give me chills. THEN he has to go and talk about his irritable bowl. Solidified… this is a squirmy awkward man. And a bit on the cold side as well. I’m starting to see a pattern in the people who don’t get along with Mr. Jarndyce – in fact, it’s almost as though Dickens has made that, in itself, a character flaw.

Can someone explain to me if Esther is just an incredibly insecure person? First she is so self-conscious about the way she looks (do we really think it’s that bad? I’m trying to imagine how poorly someone would have to look for me to actually flinch on seeing them) – we can’t have her interacting with anyone without her mentioning their reaction to her looks. And at the very end of the reading we see that her fulfillment of being engaged to Jarndyce is made more satisfying thinking Ada approves, but then is consuming her when she thinks Ada feels sorry for her. And obviously this is not what’s haunting Ada – Dickens gives us enough to let us know that something else is coming – yet instead of having a conversation Esther is so wrapped in her insecurity that she assumes it is about her and works that much harder to convey (a seemingly insincere) happiness. I’m starting to wonder and worry about her. 

‘Jo’s Will’ was perhaps the saddest chapter of this book for me (and probably most of us) so far. Starting with the fact that Woodcourt mentions that it is easier to dispose of an unwanted dog than an unwanted person, all the way through to Jo’s end (which I actually thought Dickens wasn’t gong to to do – I thought he was going to surprise us with Jo living). By far – Jo wins for being the saddest character of the whole book. It’s incredible that 200 years later we still have situations where Jo’s life is a reality… I wonder if Dickens would be surprised about that. It’s amazing how much we’ve advanced in certain areas while staying the same (or getting worse) in others.

I did find it interesting that Dickens chose to show us that both George and Woodcourt did things as an indirect favor to Esther in this chapter (Jo’s Will), and that they both almost became territorial while discussing her. Does this show us that Esther is over-doing the poor-wretched-looking me thing?

I was NOT expecting George to be arrested… this is certainly an interesting twist. I knew Bucket was up to something with all of that overly-friendly jabber and asking if there was an escape route through the backyard, but I was sincerely shocked about George’s arrest. I’m convinced it was Hortense, but I suppose we will see! (And I can’t exactly say I was said to see Tulkinghorn go – what a jerk.)

I’m also dying to find out what Ada’s got up her sleeve. I think she and Woodcourt might be up to something (being in love, perhaps?!) but I’m not sure why I feel this way – has Dickens subtly hinted this and put it in my subconscious?

As always, our questions of the week are below. I can’t believe we only have three more weeks together after this!

On to the questions of the week…

• Favorite character of the week? Jo for being Jo, or Lady Dedlock for protecting herself and being a strong (even if sometimes shady) character.
• Least favorite character of the week? Esther. Enough… enough with the insecurity.
• Most confusing part this week? Why Esther won’t just speak to Ada about what is bothering her, they usually seem to confide in each other.
• Best passage of the week? “‘Old girl,’ says Mr. Bagnet. ‘Never mind. You’d be as young as ever you was. If you wasn’t younger. Which you are. As everybody knows.’” (from chapter: Dutiful Friendship)
• This week’s nomination for ‘Hypocrite of the Week Award’? Was there one this week? I was so absorbed in some of the bigger plot points that I didn’t seem to notice.

Who’s Reading Along:

** Please don’t forget to come to this blog each Friday and share your thoughts in the comments section of the weekly Bleak House discussion (see below for more information).**

Patty@taleofthreecities
JacquelineM (@jackiemania)
Jeremy
Leah Mosher
Lisa
Ashley J.
Ashley
thetruebookaddict
Susan B.
Meg @ A Bookish Affair
Roberta
JoonAnn
Scribacchina
Hannah

Friendly Reminders:

• If you are participating and I don’t have you on this list, please let me know in the comments section. I did not include people who said ‘maybe’ so if you have changed your mind and are definitely reading along with us, let me know so I can add you. Also, if you are not going to be able to join us anymore please let me know and I will take you off the list. 
• Comments from the previous week’s reading will be closing Thursday afternoon (before the next discussion takes place on Friday). If you would like to be part of the discussion, please remember to comment before then. 
• Each week, on Friday, share your thoughts about the previous week’s reading. If you are stuck on what to comment about, you can respond to my post or others’ comments. Regardless, you MUST check in each week (two weeks without a response and you will be taken off of the list — see below for details on why). You may have only one “off week” (which may not be the last week of reading for obvious reasons) and still be kept on the list, but you must let me know in the comment section by saying something like, “I’m catching up,” or “I’m still reading.” ***for all week’s discussions please refrain from posting ahead, even if you have read ahead, as to not spoil the book for others***
• If you are a blogger you may post a link to your blog if you are posting about each of the each week’s reading. If I, or other readers, have extra time we will gladly try to visit your blog; however, you must make sure to share your thoughts here on this blog, and be part of the main conversation or your comment will not be counted.
• If you go for two weeks without commenting in my weekly update comments section, I will assume you are no longer participating and will take you off of the list (*NEW GUIDELINE*, in order to get back onthe list, you need to a.) Have missed no more than two weeks of discussion, b.) Let me know you would like to be on the list again, and c.) consistently be part of the discussion for the next two weeks after requesting to be put back on the list.). This is in no way to be discouraging, but helps to keep the read-a-long organized (and helps me remember who’s completed what read-a-long…there (ahem) might be something fun for different levels of participants at the end of the year! Thanks!

Welcome to the Bleak House read-a-long! We’re reading this book through March, April, and May. You can see the reading schedule and guidelines on the Starting Post Page.

Week Nine: Read to Chapter Forty-Five

Discussion:

Again, I am still working on this week’s reading so will go ahead and jump in on the conversation below. Can you believe we only have four more discussions left?! I’m really proud of us. The read-a-longs that last for three months are very hard to keep up with, I know, and you all have been amazing – not only getting the reading finished but engaging in conversation. For these next two weeks, I plan to do very little blogging here and focus more on the read-a-long. I’m hoping that will give me the time to not only get a little bit ahead but also participate more throughout the week in the discussion (rather than just one or two days of jumping in).

On to the questions of the week…

• Favorite character of the week?
• Least favorite character of the week?
• Most confusing part this week?
• Best passage of the week?
• This week’s nomination for ‘Hypocrite of the Week Award’?

Who’s Reading Along:

** Please don’t forget to come to this blog each Friday and share your thoughts in the comments section of the weekly Bleak House discussion (see below for more information).**

Patty@taleofthreecities
JacquelineM (@jackiemania)
Jeremy
Leah Mosher
Lisa
Ashley J.
Ashley
thetruebookaddict
Susan B.
Meg @ A Bookish Affair
Roberta
JoonAnn
erinee98
Scribacchina
Hannah

Friendly Reminders:

• If you are participating and I don’t have you on this list, please let me know in the comments section. I did not include people who said ‘maybe’ so if you have changed your mind and are definitely reading along with us, let me know so I can add you. Also, if you are not going to be able to join us anymore please let me know and I will take you off the list. 
• Comments from the previous week’s reading will be closing Thursday afternoon (before the next discussion takes place on Friday). If you would like to be part of the discussion, please remember to comment before then. 
• Each week, on Friday, share your thoughts about the previous week’s reading. If you are stuck on what to comment about, you can respond to my post or others’ comments. Regardless, you MUST check in each week (two weeks without a response and you will be taken off of the list — see below for details on why). You may have only one “off week” (which may not be the last week of reading for obvious reasons) and still be kept on the list, but you must let me know in the comment section by saying something like, “I’m catching up,” or “I’m still reading.” ***for all week’s discussions please refrain from posting ahead, even if you have read ahead, as to not spoil the book for others***
• If you are a blogger you may post a link to your blog if you are posting about each of the each week’s reading. If I, or other readers, have extra time we will gladly try to visit your blog; however, you must make sure to share your thoughts here on this blog, and be part of the main conversation or your comment will not be counted.
• If you go for two weeks without commenting in my weekly update comments section, I will assume you are no longer participating and will take you off of the list (*NEW GUIDELINE*, in order to get back onthe list, you need to a.) Have missed no more than two weeks of discussion, b.) Let me know you would like to be on the list again, and c.) consistently be part of the discussion for the next two weeks after requesting to be put back on the list.). This is in no way to be discouraging, but helps to keep the read-a-long organized (and helps me remember who’s completed what read-a-long…there (ahem) might be something fun for different levels of participants at the end of the year! Thanks!

Perhaps it’s because they are similar (both talk about relatable situations in an easily readable way). Perhaps it’s because both were incredibly progressive women of their generations (while still suffering from humanity), but these two ladies fit into a similar category in my poetic filing cabinet.

Without further ado, I present to you Dorothy Parker (my Queen of Wit), and Edna St. Vincent Millay (my Master of What-I-Meant-To-Say). Beware, it may just be some of the most enjoyable poetry you’ve read since Shel Silverstein (assuming it may have been awhile since you cracked open some verse). Here are a few of my favorites from them, these women who so clearly convey the female condition. I’m afraid if you can’t find a few of their poems that resonate with you, it’s the sign that you’ve lead a very (too?) safe and measured life.

Lady, lady, never start
Conversations toward your heart;
Keep your pretty words serene;
Never murmur what you mean.
Show yourself, by word and look,
Swift and shallow as a brook.
Be as cool and quick to go
As a drop of April snow;
Be delicate and gay
As a cherry flower in May.
Lady, lady never speak
Of the tears that burn your cheek -
She will never win him, whose
Words had shown she feared to lose.
Be wise and never sad,
You will get your lovely lad.
Never serious be, nor true,
And your wish will come to you-
And if that makes you happy, kid,
You’ll be the first it ever did.

The Lady’s Reward by Dorothy Parker

********

I, being born a woman and distressed
By all the needs and notions of my kind,
Am urged by your propinquity to find
Your person fair, and feel a certain zest
To bear your body’s weight upon my breast:
So subtly is the fume of life designed,
To clarify the pulse and cloud the mind,
And leave me once again undone, possessed.
Think not for this, however, the poor treason
Of my stout blood against my staggering brain,
I shall remember you with love, or season
My scorn with pity, – let me make it plain:
I find this frenzy insufficient reason
For conversation when we meet again.

by Edna St. Vincent Millay

Filed under: Ramblings ]]> http://unputdownables.net/2012/04/26/dorothy-parker-edna-st-vincent-millay-happy-national-poetry-month/feed/ 4 thegirlwallace http://unputdownables.net/2012/04/26/dorothy-parker-edna-st-vincent-millay-happy-national-poetry-month/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Unputdownables/~3/8GJxnjn2ICQ/ http://unputdownables.net/2012/04/24/helen-keller-in-love-giveaway/#comments Tue, 24 Apr 2012 10:00:32 +0000 Wallace http://unputdownables.net/?p=4996 ]]> Coming this week to a book store near you is Helen Keller in Love by Rosie Sultan. Thanks to Viking who have offered a copy for one lucky winner (US and Canada only this time)! Just fill out the form below to enter the giveaway; the winner will be chosen Monday, April 30th. Good luck!

A captivating novel that explores the little-known romance of a beloved American icon Helen Keller has long been a towering figure in the pantheon of world heroines. Yet the enduring portrait of her in the popular imagination is The Miracle Worker, which ends when Helen is seven years old.

Rosie Sultan’s debut novel imagines a part of Keller’s life she rarely spoke of or wrote about: the man she once loved. When Helen is in her thirties and Annie Sullivan is diagnosed with tuberculosis, a young man steps in as a private secretary. Peter Fagan opens a new world to Helen, and their sensual interactions—signing and lip-reading with hands and fingers—quickly set in motion a liberating, passionate, and clandestine affair. It’s not long before Helen’s secret is discovered and met with stern disapproval from her family and Annie. As pressure mounts, the lovers plot to elope, and Helen is caught between the expectations of the people who love her and her most intimate desires.

Richly textured and deeply sympathetic, Sultan’s highly inventive telling of a story Keller herself would not tell is both a captivating romance and a rare glimpse into the mind and heart of an inspirational figure. (description from Goodreads)

Congratulations to Kathryn for winning the copy of Helen Keller in Love!

Welcome to the Bleak House read-a-long! We’re reading this book through March, April, and May. You can see the reading schedule and guidelines on the Starting Post Page.

Week Eight: Read to Chapter Thirty-Nine

Discussion:

Hannah pointed out something very fun to me yesterday on Twitter…

(You can see the full page here on: The Guardian)

How awesome is THAT?!?! Apparently we are reading the most Dickensian novel! Thank for finding that and sharing it, Hannah!

Onto this week… I have two chapters to go, which I plan to finish this weekend, so I will be giving my answers in the comments with the rest of you. BUT, so far, Esther is my favorite character this week (and I haven’t gotten to a hypocrite… yet. How very weird as that usually pops up easily)!

Also, just a reminder (because I can’t remember if I reminded you last week): This came up in the comments recently; please do not worry about being late to commenting. You are not late unless the comments are closed. You have the entire week to finish your reading and come to the conversation. Hope that alleviates any stress!

Onto the questions…

• Favorite character of the week?
• Least favorite character of the week?
• Most confusing part this week?
• Best passage of the week?
• This week’s nomination for ‘Hypocrite of the Week Award’?

Who’s Reading Along:

** Please don’t forget to come to this blog each Friday and share your thoughts in the comments section of the weekly Bleak House discussion (see below for more information).**

Patty@taleofthreecities
JacquelineM (@jackiemania)
Jeremy
Leah Mosher
Lisa
Ashley J.
Ashley
thetruebookaddict
Susan B.
Meg @ A Bookish Affair
Roberta
JoonAnn
Christine H.
erinee98
Scribacchina
Hannah
Ellen

Friendly Reminders:

• If you are participating and I don’t have you on this list, please let me know in the comments section. I did not include people who said ‘maybe’ so if you have changed your mind and are definitely reading along with us, let me know so I can add you. Also, if you are not going to be able to join us anymore please let me know and I will take you off the list. 
• Comments from the previous week’s reading will be closing Thursday afternoon (before the next discussion takes place on Friday). If you would like to be part of the discussion, please remember to comment before then. 
• Each week, on Friday, share your thoughts about the previous week’s reading. If you are stuck on what to comment about, you can respond to my post or others’ comments. Regardless, you MUST check in each week (two weeks without a response and you will be taken off of the list — see below for details on why). You may have only one “off week” (which may not be the last week of reading for obvious reasons) and still be kept on the list, but you must let me know in the comment section by saying something like, “I’m catching up,” or “I’m still reading.” ***for all week’s discussions please refrain from posting ahead, even if you have read ahead, as to not spoil the book for others***
• If you are a blogger you may post a link to your blog if you are posting about each of the each week’s reading. If I, or other readers, have extra time we will gladly try to visit your blog; however, you must make sure to share your thoughts here on this blog, and be part of the main conversation or your comment will not be counted.
• If you go for two weeks without commenting in my weekly update comments section, I will assume you are no longer participating and will take you off of the list (*NEW GUIDELINE*, in order to get back onthe list, you need to a.) Have missed no more than two weeks of discussion, b.) Let me know you would like to be on the list again, and c.) consistently be part of the discussion for the next two weeks after requesting to be put back on the list.). This is in no way to be discouraging, but helps to keep the read-a-long organized (and helps me remember who’s completed what read-a-long…there (ahem) might be something fun for different levels of participants at the end of the year! Thanks!