Luck of the Titanic

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Although I dabble in YA fantasy & contemporary, I think YA historical fiction is my sweet spot. Stacey Lee writes such strong characters & her books give me a different perspective on history. We know what happened to the Titanic & the last quarter of the book was intense, but the entire story was a pleasure to read. It had me thinking & Googling-always a good sign in a historical novel. This will likely end up on my 2022 favorites list. Thanks ⬇️

DebinHawaii … to @TheBookHippie for making it a #sundaybuddyread & the always thoughtful discussions that add to the experience. 🤗 2y

TheBookHippie ♥️♥️ This was so good. I‘ll think on it a long long time.. 2y

DebinHawaii @TheBookHippie Me too! 💙 2y

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tpixie @DebinHawaii I use googling as a sign of a good book also!! 2y

DebinHawaii @tpixie Yes, if it has me wanting to learn more it usually means it‘s a great book. Unless I am Googling to check the author‘s facts! 🤣 2y

tpixie @DebinHawaii lol 😂 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD

🚢💔🌊 I thank you for journeying along with me once again. I have put the authors OUT RUN THE MOON on our schedule next year.

TheBookHippie

Outrun the Moon

vlwelser 😍 looking forward to that one. And I will make sure not to read it ahead. 😂 2y

AmyG Happy to hear we get to read another of her books next year. I really enjoyed the two we have read. 2y

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TheBookHippie @vlwelser 😂😂😂 2y

DebinHawaii I am happy to read Outrun theMoon next year. I bought it the other day because Amazon sent me a “coupon” for the e-book. Now I‘ll just have to save it. 😉 Thanks for the usual great hosting & discussion on this one. 💙 2y

NikkiM5 Thank you! I‘ve enjoyed this immensely. 2y

mollyrotondo Thank you!!!! Another excellent book by Stacey Lee! I can‘t wait to read another one of her books with this amazing group next year!! 2y

TheBookHippie @NikkiM5 I‘m so glad! 2y

TheBookHippie @mollyrotondo Me either! Another author we can continue to enjoy! 2y

mollyrotondo @TheBookHippie this is a new book coming out that addresses the Chinese Exclusion Act. Sounds like a good one set in the American west

Four Treasures of the Sky

TheBookHippie @mollyrotondo Ooo! Thanks! Adding it to my list! 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD

This last part was so fast and so many pieces… what stuck out to you?

https://www.oprahdaily.com/entertainment/books/a36387063/forgotten-chinese-titan...

AmyG I just remember being shocked that she sisn‘t survive since ahe was the main character. I finished this a while ago and I read so fast to see what happened that I don‘t remember much else. 2y

Karisa The chaos and chance involved in surviving disaster stood out to me. Also the inherent unfairness was made so clear. As much as we try to stay safe and put plans into place, when the real thing happens, it‘s so different. Where you are, who you are, what you have, and what you don‘t all come into play 2y

DebinHawaii Yes, Valora was a shocker. The tension of the last 1/4 was so high I was completely caught up in it. I was hoping something/someone would save her at the end after she did so much to save everyone she could, but I think it ended correctly & with the author staying true to Val‘s character—smart, strong, brave, stubborn, loyal…💜 2y

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rubyslippersreads Like @DebinHawaii I was racing through the last 1/4 of the book. I couldn‘t believe the ending, but I agree it was true to Val‘s character. 2y

NikkiM5 I flew through the last chapters; and I loved that she sacrificed for her brother. I also believe the last chapters really displayed how much the twins love each other. 2y

mollyrotondo @Karisa I also think the author did a great job showing the unfairness. Think of all the people including the disrespected third class who had all these plans and dreams just like Val had a plan for when the boat docked. And in an instant it‘s all taken away. That‘s everyone. Not just the upper class. Everyone. And in that instant you forget the dream (the circus dream was not mentioned after the boat hits) and you just are fighting to survive. 2y

Sargar114 The racism and classism up until the bitter end was disgusting. I was at first surprised that Valora didn‘t survive but it ultimately makes sense with the story. I thought the epilogue was very well done. 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick Am I the only one who suddenly pictured Val like Kate Winslet, floating on a chaise longue in the ocean in a dress, finding Drummer's drum to attract attention in lieu of a whistle? The final section was a whirlwind, but so was the sinking. It came together well, though I really hadn't expected Val to not be among the survivors. 2y

TheBookHippie @Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick 🙋🏻‍♀️ 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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Drummer dies…

Bo….he survives.

Ugh the life boats

Omg WINK

VALORA 😩

Jamie survives 😩

The authors note

“Provoke a discussion about which of these characters society considers worthy and which it does not ..”

This was not the ending I wanted but is it more tragic to us readers this way? Make us think more?

TheBookHippie https://www.npr.org/2021/04/23/990281618/the-six-looks-at-how-6-chinese-mens-liv... 2y

AmyG I was heartbroken and shocked. I like a realistic ending sometimes, even if it hurts. 2y

Karisa I was surprised she let Valora die. Not many books take that leap especially when the characters are rich enough and driven enough for a potential sequel. I thought Val was the one character that was safe😬😢 2y

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Karisa The author‘s note was fantastic and gave the whole story another layer. It reminded me that those types of ranking human lives were done then and are still done today (like in deciding news coverage and spots available for those fleeing from war—all deserve compassion and attention at the level that Ukraine has been getting.) It also reminded me of the classic Lifeboat ethics problems. Horrible decisions 2y

TheBookHippie @Karisa I thought of this as well. I fell in love with Ethiopia as a child and had that renewed when we had it for FoodandLit last year just as it was being pillaged. I make myself follow it, I found a charity and try to tell people about it. It is said to be the worst travesty happening currently. There is almost no coverage. My heart hurts for Ukraine as well, as people we love are so close by there. It‘s all unjust. Some doubly so .. 2y

DebinHawaii The author caught me by surprise as well with Valora but it made sense in the story, much as it hurt my heart. 💔💔💔 2y

rubyslippersreads I thought Valora was safe because the story was told in first-person. 2y

Karisa @TheBookHippie That‘s what I was thinking of too. I have a student whose family is from Ethiopia and she‘s been talking of how sad it is there as well. Also, Haiti and Syria. So much suffering. All deserve a place on our lifeboat if they want it 💗 2y

TheBookHippie @Karisa I so agree. 2y

TheBookHippie @rubyslippersreads Me too! 2y

mollyrotondo @rubyslippersreads yes the first person threw me off. I thought for sure she‘d make it. I was shocked when she died. But I went back to read all of her dreams and it all totally makes sense. In each Valora is moving towards her father so technically moving towards death while Jamie looked up ie was pulled up into the safety of a lifeboat. So devastating. But I definitely think this tragic ending reminds us of the tragedy of classism and bigotry 2y

mollyrotondo I also loved her Author‘s Note. Everyone loves to focus on the glamour of the Titanic. And after everything I have seen over the years about the disgusting treatment towards the third class passengers and the negligence of the ocean liner to not include enough lifeboats and try to speed up the boat to beat the competition I more and more view the Titanic as an ugly ship. 2y

mollyrotondo @TheBookHippie Is this documentary available in the U.S. yet? I‘d love to watch it 2y

TheBookHippie @mollyrotondo not that I‘ve seen. It‘s my plan to track it down. I‘ll keep everyone posted! 2y

TheBookHippie @mollyrotondo I agree with you about the ship. It‘s such ugliness everywhere… on all the levels. 2y

TheBookHippie @mollyrotondo https://www.thesixdocumentary.com/news I‘m hoping it comes somewhere like Netflix. The Draining of the Titanic is on Disney Plus. Along with a few others. 2y

mollyrotondo @TheBookHippie it has played at a lot of film festivals. I should keep an eye out for local film festivals. It looks really good. I‘ll check Disney plus too. 2y

Sargar114 The author‘s note was fantastic! The perspective of this book is what makes it a very good read. I‘m happy to have read it. Thank you @TheBookHippie 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick A moment for Drummer and Valora... 😔 Wink's debacle had me ugly crying, so I'm glad I waited until I was alone to finish and didn't push to read it on the plane Friday. That would've been awkward. I kept hoping Val would survive under the radar, perhaps undocumented as she entered. I really expected Jaime would save her and perhaps the troubled Fong would make a valiant sacrifice. At least Val and Bo had a few moments of tenderness. 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick As much as the Titanic was a beautiful ship, the motivations behind so many decisions were total horseshit. I can't imagine not having enough lifeboats for all. I can't imagine not wanting to fill the lifeboats, even if it was just men left on the deck. I guess I'm just not the sort of person who is against anyone without reason. Rich or poor, smart or stupid, you have to prove to me you're garbage before I trwat you as such. 2y

TheBookHippie @Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick It really changes my opinion of it. 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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Charlotte -Valora doesn‘t stay with her either!!!

Jamie kisses her…

She wants the twins ….

Jamie‘s letter to Charlotte at the end… 😭😭😭

The twins are SAFE!!

So so emotional…
😭😭😭😭

AmyG Ha! The dogs. I am glad the kids made it. 2y

Karisa I was wondering how any of the dogs could have possibly made it. Wow! I‘m glad the boys made it and were safe with Charlotte too 2y

DebinHawaii I was so worried about the twins. Charlotte was another amazing strong female character! 2y

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rubyslippersreads I‘m glad so many of the characters we‘d met lived, but Valora‘s fate came as a complete shock to me. 😢 2y

mollyrotondo I was glad both boys made it safely. Charlotte was really wonderful to take them under her wing. I was also glad her dog made it 😅 2y

Sargar114 I was glad the boys survived. Was initially annoyed with Val‘s fate (I have a pet peeve for perspectives being told from characters that don‘t survive). But given she was “undocumented” it made sense and fit with the story so I accepted it. 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I appreciated Charlotte's role in everything but I felt she didn't have as much personality as some of the other characters. I am happy she lived, though (and potentially continues to love Jaime), and can care for Wink & Olly through her program. I think I cried for about 5 different people in this section and I rarely cry or get scared from books. Jaime's letter was so bittersweet. I was worried for him the entire time. 2y

TheBookHippie @Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick This book shook me more than I planned on that‘s for sure. We fell in love with so many of them. 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick Not gonna lie...I was so panicked about the dogs. I hadn't considered there were any canines aboard until this book, so seeing these sweet faces gives me a little relief. 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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Welcome to the Ringling Brothers Circus

Strange swell
Was a hit
Get the life jackets
Valora doesn‘t stay with April!

April coming out
Telling Valora about it
“The sooner you let people who they want to be the better for all.”

Gah…..

It‘s a beautiful story. April‘s. Helpful in a YA book?
Also we‘re you yelling at Valora?! STAY WITH APRIL!!

https://vintagedancer.com/1900s/titanic-fashion-1st-class-women/

TheBookHippie https://time.com/the-last-act-of-the-greatest-show-on-earth/ 2y

TheBookHippie https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/ringling-bros-circus-elephant... 2y

TheBookHippie I was taught about this in several circuses https://www.thedailybeast.com/the-ringmaster-who-helped-jewish-acrobats-escape-t... 2y

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AmyG I was never a fan of circuses. I always felt bad for all the animals. And once I went (friend got free tickets) to the Ringling Broa in NYC-front row. We were about 21? The clowns tried to pick us up. Ha. Not what I thought the circus was all about. 2y

AmyG Good articles. Thank you. Finally the bot hits the iceburg. I couldn‘t read this part fast enough. 2y

Karisa I was totally yelling at Valora to stay with April and then to stay with Charlotte… and then… true to herself until the end😢 2y

DebinHawaii I lived April & having her story in the book. 💜 I was yelling at Valora through the whole ending but as @Karisa said—she was true to herself. Her bravery & loyalty knew no bounds. 2y

rubyslippersreads @AmyG Thanks for increasing my coulrophobia a million times. 🤣 2y

rubyslippersreads @Karisa @DebinHawaii Valora truly lived up to her name. She could never keep herself safe while her loved ones were in peril. 2y

AmyG @rubyslippersreads Ha!!! 2y

TheBookHippie @rubyslippersreads 🤣🤣🤣🤣 2y

mollyrotondo Definitely loved April! She was always true to herself and tried to help others see the importance of this as well. I was also yelling at Valora to stay with April! But of course she needed to go try save her friends and brother. Uhh all of those opportunities to get into a lifeboat each killed me. They were just a sign 😢 2y

Sargar114 Agree with everyone, I loved April! She was probably my favorite. I didn‘t expect Valora to stay with April, that would‘ve been out of character for her. 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I really enjoyed April and I think it's important for YA books to have representation, even when it isn't the main plotline. Like, hey, you can be gay and it doesn't have to be the only thing about you that's interesting. Hooray fashion design! As for Val, as much as I wanted to yell at her, I knew damn well her Titanic journey wasn't going to end with getting on the first lifeboat to safety, waiting for Jaime and the Johnnies. 2y

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sprainedbrain

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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I had to wait for a library copy, so was very late to start this month‘s #SundayBuddyRead… but then when I did I absolutely couldn‘t stop until it was done. My first by Stacey Lee, and I just loved her writing, the characters, and the lovely story. Even knowing how the story would end (generally), I still found it to be fresh and fun to read.

⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2

TheBookHippie

TheBookHippie We are reading another one next year! We read The Downstairs Girl last year it was soo good! 2y

sprainedbrain @TheBookHippie looking forward to reading more from her! 2y

DebinHawaii Definitely read

The Downstairs Girl

(edited) 2y

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Sargar114

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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As with most stories about the Titanic, this one was full of tension and anticipation knowing the events to come. However, Lee manages to create a story within this broader tale that gives you moments where you almost forgot what was about to happen with such an interesting perspective and vivid characters. Worth a read for a new look at a familiar tale. Also: the last 1/4 of the book is impossible to put down. #sundaybuddyread

TheBookHippie GAH!!!! I never read so fast in my LIFE. 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD

See you SUNDAY 🤐🤫

Also FYI- I ADDED OUTRUN THE MOON to next years reading 😂♥️ - we have so loved the two books we read by this author we may as well keep going.

mollyrotondo Ooooo I‘m excited for next year! 😂 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

https://abc13.com/titanic-anniversary-immigration-world-history/1874040/

https://titanicfacts.net/titanic-casualties-list/

#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD

See you SUNDAY 🤐🤫

Sargar114 😢 2y

mollyrotondo It‘s disgusting how third class was left to die. Each time I read a Titanic story I get more and more sick about how this ship was built and operated. Awful. 2y

TheBookHippie @mollyrotondo SAME. It makes me want to puke. 2y

rubyslippersreads The first-class child, Helen Loraine Allison, was the subject of a court trial in the 1940s. A woman claimed to be Loraine, and said that Titanic shipbuilder Thomas Andrews saved her and later adopted her. Of course that‘s not true; he died in the sinking, and Helen drowned along with her parents. They couldn‘t find her baby brother and didn‘t realize their maid had gotten him into a lifeboat. 2y

TheBookHippie @rubyslippersreads Oh wow how fascinating is that?!?! So many stories. Just tragic all the way around. 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD

Time to finish this! 🚢🧧🌊⚓️

AmyG I loved the last part. Hope you all do, too. 2y

Karisa Thank you, @TheBookHippie for the wonderful questions each week! You are amazing! 💗 2y

TheBookHippie @Karisa 😵‍💫 I try!! 🙃 plus it‘s so fun when I‘m exasperated to know you all just push me along. 😂 It‘s the forever student in me I think. 2y

DebinHawaii @AmyG I am glad to hear you liked it. I am a bit “scared” to finish! 😬 2y

TheBookHippie @DebinHawaii I'm scared to finish LOL. 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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Fong is why Bos brother is dead

Why a new steward?
What is up with that?

Good grief the newspaper !
Telling of her covers demise..

What‘s up with the dress switch?

Oy vey Skeleton what a snake.

What is Valora‘s option going to be?

The ship still hasn‘t sunk…

Any clues to how this ends?

So many loose ends..

AmyG Again, I have read the book so I am not going to say anything. I don‘t want to give anything away! 2y

Karisa Yeah, the dress switch and steward things have been bugging me too. Not sure what‘s going on but hoping April is ok. She wouldn‘t knowing let that happen without a fight. Dailies post seemed a little too coincidental. Skeleton incident came out of nowhere! Not sure where it‘s all going yet. Ready to read the end! 2y

kspenmoll The dress switch was strange… 2y

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NikkiM5 So much to unpack lol and I have no answers to these questions. This was an intense reading week. 2y

DebinHawaii The dress switch really threw me. Lije @Karisa I hope April is ok or had a good reason for it. The steward thing is interesting too. So many questions & wondering who knows what. What a cliffhanger to end on this week! 😱🥶 2y

mollyrotondo I was also very puzzled about the dress thing. Why would April give her that other lady‘s dress? I hope April is fine. And I am so surprised the ship hasn‘t started sinking yet. I thought it would have started in last week‘s section. But we have less than 100 pages and it hasn‘t hit the iceberg yet. Nervous about how all of this will end. 2y

TheBookHippie @mollyrotondo I am so scared to finish it! HA. I wait out until around Wednesday so I can discuss without spoilers! I'm so afraid of loose ends and not knowing!! Does it just sink?!?!?! OY. 2y

TheBookHippie @mollyrotondo also the dress thing I didn‘t get 😝 2y

mollyrotondo @TheBookHippie uhh I hope it doesn‘t just sink 😬 I hope we get see some move forward in NYC. But there‘s only so many pages left 😆 2y

Sargar114 My thought on the dress thing was the competition was behind it, somehow sent the dress hoping the most intriguing person in first class would get attention for her fashion instead. I was also fully expecting the cliffhanger of this section to be right at impact with an iceberg…so no idea how that will play into all this craziness already going on!!! 2y

rubyslippersreads All I know (even before finishing the book) is that the Duff-Gordons don‘t comport themselves at all well in the disaster. (edited) 2y

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TheBookHippie

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The act the performance …
Can you believe some one threw a peanut?!

Wink and Olly
Seriously I love these two
Anyone else hoping they make it to America?

AmyG Hate is everywhere, so not surprised someone tried to mess them up. Ha…the “kids” are great characters. 2y

Karisa When the peanut thing happened it made me think along the lines of “when they go low, you go high” because the ones throwing peanuts were the ones that Valora didn‘t offer candied fruit to. They‘re a horrible group but maybe if she‘d offered? Of course, sometimes people will be awful no matter what🤷🏻‍♀️. Maybe that‘s one struggle with “go high” philosophy: it puts the pressure on the victims. . . 2y

Karisa Wink and Ollie are such awesome characters! Hoping things turn out well for them for sure! 2y

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kspenmoll Love Wink & Olie too.Some great characters in this book. Peanut throwing not a surprise as the faced so much prejudice/ discrimination. I loved that they got to perform & how Valora managed it. She is such a strong, intelligent, problem solver. 2y

NikkiM5 I love the kiddos too. And I also like that Val is opening up more to seeing Jamie‘s side and needs. She had quite a few epiphanies these chapters. 2y

DebinHawaii Not surprised at all at the peanut throwing at the performance. I am just glad it didn‘t result in either twin getting injured. Wink & Ollie are my favorites (in a book where I don‘t want to get to attached) I just want to hug them both. 2y

mollyrotondo I hope these kids make it to America! I‘m so nervous about who isn‘t going to make it. 😬 but I wasn‘t surprised someone tried to mess up their routine. People are disgusting. 2y

Sargar114 Another way they ended up adapting; turning an ugly act to a beautiful end to their performance. I also like the two boys, I worry something terrible will happen…but it‘s also YA and I don‘t think that is really this authors style. 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I am behind and need to finally read Week 4 but hopping in to have it on record that Wink and Olly are precious and be protected at all costs! 2y

TheBookHippie @Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I seriously love them. 2y

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TheBookHippie

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Valoras memory of the shawl her mom had from her Ba. She can‘t decide which bothers her more that the shawl I thought mom loved embarrassed her or that Jamie understood her and I had not…
Do we see what we what to see?
Is memory accurate or is it clouded?

📸 https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/158192

AmyG We all perceive things differently. Many times we see what we want to see. And I truly believe that memories change with time. Also, from my experience….as I learned more about my family history as an adult (lots of secrets in my family), it changed more my interpretations of my memories. Hindsight and all that. 2y

kspenmoll Memories can be tricky. I have 7 siblings & we have different memories, different interpretations, especially depending in when each of us was born. 2y

NikkiM5 @kspenmoll thats so cool! I believe memories are interpreted through our own lens, just like everything else in life. This book is doing a great job displaying how memories are viewed, and that when memory interpretations are questioned, it can be stressful. 2y

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DebinHawaii @kspenmoll The same & I‘m the youngest by several years so that definitely plays a big role in how I view & experienced the past than some of my older siblings. 2y

mollyrotondo Sometimes we see things because we want to believe life is better than it really is. She wanted to believe her parents loved each other and had a happy marriage but her brother saw beyond that hope to the truth. It‘s not that she didn‘t know her mother it‘s just she wanted to believe her mother was happier than maybe she really was. Memory isn‘t reliable because we put more than just facts into our memories. 2y

Sargar114 Memories are definitely clouded by our own perspective. But I‘d also say that it‘s possible Jamie is missing something too. She may have been happy but also had the insecurities and sadness Jamie mentioned. People are complicated 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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Valoras dreams …
Are the telling her something?

AmyG Yes. I hve read the entire book so I am not going to say anything else. 2y

Karisa Ba and Jamie are in them. Some tree and a coffin or box? Maybe I should be paying more attention to those but the awake drama is more compelling. 😅 Must be important but I don‘t see the connections yet… 2y

TheBookHippie @Karisa Me reading along oh crap the dream of the tree and box in different format again… crap…. Am I supposed to be catching a clue 😂🤦🏻‍♀️ 2y

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Karisa @TheBookHippie Yep! I‘m reading on a Kindle, so not sure about searching back for the italic dream parts 😂 2y

kspenmoll The dreams are compelling but I too am paid more attention to the ongoing drama. I finished the book so I am being careful with my responses. I couldn‘t put it down! 2y

DebinHawaii Yes, the dreams seem to be foreshadowing but I don‘t want to think too much about them. 🥺 I may have to finish the book today & not wait for next week. 2y

mollyrotondo I know the dreams mean something but I‘m afraid they predicting Jamie‘s death so I‘m afraid to find out 🙁 2y

TheBookHippie @mollyrotondo I'm afraid to look too deep as well! 2y

Sargar114 They‘re also so sparse that like others said, everything that is actually going on is much more compelling. 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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“Why are we always called upon to show greater generosity of spirit..”

Does rising above, going high help?

My grandma would tell me don‘t prove them right…

What are your thoughts?

Valora is clearly frustrated does that help to demand change?

AmyG And my Grandma told me-don‘t stoop to their level. It‘s hard to remain kind and decent when others play dirty. 2y

Karisa Ugh. It‘s the right thing to do but that doesn‘t make it easy… 2y

kspenmoll It is the right thing to do but it took me a long time to be able to live this way. 2y

DebinHawaii Yes, doing the “right” thing & having a generosity of spirit is so hard when you are constantly the one doing the giving or forgiving. 😖 2y

mollyrotondo @DebinHawaii yes! It can become harder and harder because other people just love to knock others down. But yes we must be the better people and not prove others right. 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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Bo. Jamie.
Both unexpected things are happening to Valora.

The name explaination of House of July. Aunt July.
“ I design my clothes to be fluid and easy to move in so that when life takes unexpected turns you won‘t get stuck” April.

A theme is being woven through this book yes?
But is it go with the flow ? Or be open to what can happen ? Or ????

AmyG I think the message is more live your dream. But both April and Valora have to fight for it as both are women, one Chinese and one a lesbian. It‘s harder for them both during that time. Many strikes against them. 2y

Karisa @AmyG That theme of living your dream does feel fitting especially for Valora, Jamie, and April. Valora seems to swim so hard towards her own dream hoping to catch others in her current to pull along with her. I love how strong and creative both Valora and April are. I‘d love for an ending with them still in each others‘ lives (and hopefully both alive)! 2y

TheBookHippie @Karisa 🤞🏻🤞🏻🤞🏻🤞🏻 2y

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AmyG @Karisa I, too, love these strong women. 2y

kspenmoll @AmyG I agree, the message is to live your dream. Valora assumed she & Jamie had the same dream, & was so focused on that she did not see who he had become & that he was content. @Karisa I love your image of Valora- perfect! Both Valora & April are strong creative women.Love their friendship. 2y

DebinHawaii I agree with the live your dream message and I also think it means to not be so focused on your dream or what you think you want that you get stuck or miss out on things along the way. 2y

mollyrotondo I think it is definitely a huge theme to this book. Pursue your dream and be able to keep on trying no matter what other people say or how other people try to hold you back. Be able to take whatever life throws at you. I think April and Valora really have this skill ingrained in them. 2y

Sargar114 This was another line I highlighted. I do think the ability to adapt is incredibly important and shown in multiple ways in this book. (Using stale bread heels to make money in her juggling act, using her disguise as the Merry Widow to get the show and perks for her friends, etc) 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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It take patience and sometimes they break. Not every shell wants to be changed.

Metaphor for Valora and Jamie?

AmyG Maybe. Or just a lesson in life about people. 2y

kspenmoll I am thinking Jamie, as he was content with his life/job on the ocean liner. 2y

NikkiM5 I believe it was a metaphor for the twins, and for people in general. The risk of damage is high when you force or guilt someone to change that does not want to. I loved that line ❤️ 2y

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DebinHawaii I highlighted this one too. I agree with @NikkiM5 it very much applies to the twins, but to everyone really. Especially if someone is not ready or does not want to change, it can break the relationship & even break them or the person wanting the change.💔 (edited) 2y

mollyrotondo Definitely agree. We cannot change people. If we push too hard we can break the relationship. Everyone has to grow at their own speed. 2y

Sargar114 @NikkiM5 @DebinHawaii I highlighted this one as well. So applicable to the twins and people in general. 2y

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Kempfme

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

pick

This is a great story that hasn‘t been told about the Chinese on the Titanic.

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD

A little info I found while researching...

http://www.circopedia.org/The_Chinese_Acrobatic_Theater

http://fordcenter.blogspot.com/2010/07/history-of-chinese-acrobats.html

http://en.chinaculture.org/library/2008-01/23/content_37639.htm

AmyG The author does her homework. I didn‘t know of any of this. 2y

TheBookHippie @AmyG It‘s amazing, right? 2y

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kspenmoll

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

#MarvelousMarch #readathon #March12toMarch20

Finished these three books this weekend. Loved them all for different reasons. #Sundaybuddyread #audiobookshopmysteties #mystery #book2

Andrew65

Andrew65 Doing brilliantly 👏👏👏 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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Charlotte Fine. A new conspirator and friend.
Purple Bowler Hat circus man..

She‘s got her wish!

So. She has her show.

I‘m really starting to love this book!

Did I miss anything?

Librarybelle The stage is set, and you know the countdown is ticking away until the iceberg makes an appearance! 2y

AmyG Each section gets better and better. I have read the entire book and I‘m just trying not to give anything away. 🤣 2y

Sargar114 I‘m wondering if they‘ll get to do their performance before the iceberg? Is Charlotte Fine a love interest for Jamie (someone like his mom maybe) or just a happy coincidence? 2y

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kspenmoll I am really enjoying this book with its uniques characters, Titanic life, fashions, discrimination theme. 2y

TheBookHippie @kspenmoll I am as well. I also love that it is YA. I think it's a good book for that genre. Very unique. 2y

DebinHawaii Yes, I am liking this as much as Downstairs Girl so far. The author writes historical YA so well. I struggle between not being able to wait to see what happens next & being afraid to see what happens next! 😱 2y

Karisa Loving the descriptions of the clothes and other historical details. I‘m also rooting for Val and hoping the best for the characters I‘ve come to enjoy (the kids, April, Bo, especially). I think knowing the Titanic‘s fate gives this book more depth and weight for sure. 2y

kspenmoll @TheBookHippie I agree; it‘s a unique YA book. When we are finished I will donate to our 9th grade class library.😀 2y

TheBookHippie @kspenmoll me too . 2y

mollyrotondo Really enjoying this one. She‘s a new favorite author. Two for two! She writes such strong female characters. I‘m loving April and Val so much. I‘d love a spin-off book about April 😂 the choice of setting was perfect because the tension keeps growing with each day that goes by and we are learning so much more about how people would have been treated on this disaster ship. 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I wonder if they'll get to do their performance or if somehow they use their special skills to save the purple bowler hat and it's owner. Charlotte seems like a love interest for Jamie but not sure how much love is to be had, with the impending doom and all. I'm enjoying this. It's historical and, though I know the general story, it's showing us from a different POV. 2y

TheBookHippie @Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I am enjoying the differing points of view for sure. 2y

TheBookHippie @mollyrotondo Right?! Two for two so I added one to next years line up 😂 2y

mollyrotondo @TheBookHippie oh my gosh perfect! Thank you! I was secretly hoping you would! 😂 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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April‘s creations I love how Valora gives them identities! The descriptions as well.
Peacock chides it‘s moment to fan it‘s tail!

April and the dress and dressmaker at the captains table a set up?

Valora‘s gaul at the capitals table!
Just wow.
Asking for candied fruit for the Chinese.
Acting as a difficult hard to please rich woman, will get what she needs done.
Is it easier to adjust to being rich than to being poor?

TheBookHippie Link https://fashionarchives.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/SUFAM_Spring2012_Titanic-... 2y

Librarybelle I‘m not sure April has that much influence to design an invite for Valora at the same time as the “competition,” but her lurking in the background was interesting. She clearly saw this as an opportunity for her brand. (edited) 2y

AmyG Jamie has pure gumption. I love her for that-she is a great character. And April‘s dresses sound so beautiful. Ha, I wish there were pictures, drawings of them. 2y

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Sargar114 It was definitely quite fortuitous! Since I‘m more like Jamie, I worry that Val‘s gumption will catch up with her at some point. But also worry that since it‘s a YA novel…it may not. It seems to be working very well for her so far. 2y

kspenmoll I did not expect that they would be at the same table. Val is so bold, but I wonder if it will catch up with her. I love the descriptions of April‘s creations on Val. 2y

DebinHawaii Yes, the fashion descriptions are so detailed & fun. Like @AmyG I wish we could see them. I am all for Valora using what she has to get what she wants. 2y

NikkiM5 @Sargar114 totally agree. Also, I liked the difficult, hard to please woman line lol 2y

TheBookHippie @NikkiM5 The line is unfortunate and typical for the time … so wrong. 2y

mollyrotondo I love April and Val 😂 I thought it was a riot that April was there making gestures to remind Val to show off the clothes 😂 it would make a fun movie scene. I also think Val should take those kinds of chances to show these people they should be treating all people well. I really enjoyed this whole scene. Again showing that Val and April are working hard to make names for themselves and make themselves happy. 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I think April is a hoot so I'm here for any scene she worms her way into (like she's a live person making this happen 😁) I was even more amused that Val seemed to know what the gestures meant. I don't know if Val's gumption is going to cause a problem, but I'm cheering for her to change a few minds about the Chinese and the lower classes while she's aboard the Titanic. I think it is easier to adjust to money than transition from it. 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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Jamie and Valora talk about their Ba.

Jamie telling Valora that one has to lower their standards to be happy. Really?

Jamie agreeing to help with her performance. We‘re you surprised?

So is Valora like Ba? What is the appropriate risk to take? Is there truly calculated risk in this situation ?

Jamie holding a grudge or just seeing things as a realest?

Librarybelle Kind of going along with how I answered the previous question- I think Jamie is trying to find a life that does not remind him of the past. It‘s sad that he thinks happiness is not necessarily a gauge in determining how one should live a life. But, maybe he sees happiness comes at a cost, looking at how his mom lived her life??? 2y

AmyG Great points @Librarybelle. Jamie and Valora see their past very differently. They are just very different people with very different temperaments. But you can tell they have great love for each other. As for Jamie, lowering his happiness standards….I feel he has had so much disappointment in life that this is a coping mechanism for him. 2y

Sargar114 Good points @Librarybelle I don‘t necessarily think it‘s wrong to want a stable life like Jamie does OR want something more like Val does. The problem comes at them trying to want that for the other. It seems they‘re starting to realize that their paths are going to have to diverge which is why Jamie wants to help his sister as at the end of the day he loves her. 2y

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Deblovestoread I agree with all of these comments. Jamie and Val are getting reacquainted and are learning to accept that each wants a different path…although Val is hoping Jamie will fall in love with performing and join her in the end so maybe she‘s not really accepting at this point. 2y

kspenmoll @AmyG what you said resonates with me. They are two very different people despite being twins. Both experienced or responded to Ba with their own visions & personality. As @Kdgordon88 says, Valora has not accepted Jamie‘s choices. I am surprised he agreed to perform except I think he saw how much it meant to his sister & he loves her. 2y

AmyG @Sargar114 Good point. They are realizing they want different things. I have twins and I remember when they wanted to go their own way, follow their own paths. 2y

DebinHawaii I jumped the gun & mostly answered this in my response to the last question. I think it is a little sad that Jamie has to lower his expectations for happiness & thinks Valora should do the same but it is understandable due to their past. I think it was probably good for Valora to hear some “truths” about their father (although painful) to understand more about Jamie‘s perspective-even if she doesn‘t accept it. 2y

NikkiM5 @DebinHawaii these chapters really revealed how differently the twins viewed their childhood experiences. I still relate more to Jamie. I‘ve been around the chaos of people like Ba and Val. That said, we see some extreme views from Jamie, such as lowering standards, and not expecting much from life. I feel he is striving for stability to his own detriment. 2y

Sargar114 @DebinHawaii @NikkiM5 I don‘t see it as listing your standards more as a means of survival. Chaos is a good description and really supports why Jamie would seek stability. 2y

Sargar114 @AmyG twin mom too! Mine are 5 and still at the we do everything together stage and I can‘t even imagine life when they start going their own ways even though we are trying to get them to see that liking different things is okay. I don‘t the the pandemic helped there either 2y

AmyG Mine didn‘t want to do their own thing until high school....tney spent their summer ( jr year?) doing different things. But when it came to college they were ready to go to different schools. And that‘s when the separation truly began and we saw how really different they are. (Ha, they are almost 34, fraternal girls). @Sargar114 (edited) 2y

mollyrotondo I don‘t think either sibling is wrong. Jamie feels more comfortable choosing a stable path with a team he feels close to like family. But it‘s not fair for him to say Val is like her father. Their father didn‘t know what he wanted and always had a harebrained scheme to make money. Val knows what she wants. She wants to be an acrobat. Yeah it‘s not steady work but it‘s a focused dream that she is brave enough to go after in order to be happy. 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick Saying you have to lower your standards to be happy sounds depressing, but I think there's something to a humble lifestyle. While I don't think being a minimalist who owns 100 things is the way for me, I am realizing I want to travel more and have experiences. I need a reliable car, not a flashy one. I have clothes I like, but they aren't expensive designer brands. Some strive for the status symbols, where I'm happy with function. 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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Valora‘s tour given by Drummer.
It‘s not what she thought.
Also she can see Jamie‘s comfort.
All dreams are not the same.
Can this be okay for Jamie?

Interesting that again it is mentioned the Captain wanting to be in New York a day earlier.

Librarybelle Both Valora and Jamie are leading such different paths, and Jamie continues to run away from the ghost of their father. I think Jamie is just trying to find the life he can live without all of the reminders of his past. 2y

AmyG Yes, Jamie just seems to want to move on, leave the past behind. Lots of unresolved issues with his father that won‘t get resolved since his father is dead. 2y

Sargar114 It seems they both only see one side of their father. Val the positive and Jamie the negative. It was good for Val to see that area, it helped her understand her brother a little more and maybe be more willing to let him go. I tend to understand Jamie a little more and his means of rebellion from his reckless father seems to be working hard doing something others may look down upon. 2y

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Deblovestoread Ba‘s choices made Jamie want to strive for security, a steady job with enough money to survive. He‘s had enough of unrealistic dreams. Valora loves acrobatics and wants to make her dream of performing come true and is willing to take a risk to make it happen. 2y

kspenmoll Agree with you all- Jamie rejected his father & how he lived his life & as a result wanted a secure job, food on the table, some friends. Valora seemed to be the opposite. She wanted to achieve her dreams despite being aware of the obstacles she faced. But she could not totally accept her brother‘s choices. 2y

DebinHawaii I thought her saying that Jamie was worried she‘d end up like their mum and him saying “No. I‘m worried you‘ll end up like Ba” was such an impactful scene & very telling about Jamie‘s motives for trying to send her back to the U.K. 2y

Karisa I know the point was Val understanding Jamie‘s practicality. However… This part had me skimming through to speed it along. Felt forced and I kept wondering about her clothes. Wasn‘t she wearing pumps and red fancy pantsuit thing from April? How would just adding a hat disguise her? Wouldn‘t she get way too dirty down there with all the coal dust? (I worry about the wrong things sometimes while reading, I think 🤔 ) 2y

TheBookHippie @Karisa I think you could walk the upper planks and look down without getting dirty? I need to reread it but I had similar thoughts. Did she change first? Long week brain mush 🤦🏻‍♀️😵‍💫 2y

Sargar114 @DebinHawaii very impactful! I keep going to that line thinking of the twins. @Karisa @TheBookHippie I think she did change prior to going down there 2y

Karisa @Sargar114 @thebookhippie That would make more sense! I must‘ve missed that and kept picturing her in the fancy stuff. I get too bogged down in the logistics sometimes 😂 2y

TheBookHippie @Karisa happens to me often 🙃 2y

mollyrotondo @Karisa I also sort of half paid attention to this part lol my mind wandered. But in the end I like that she saw Jamie‘s choice and it helped her understand better. I‘m also glad they talked about their feelings a little more. It makes sense that Jamie was angered by their father‘s choices and wanted to forge a different path for himself. And that‘s okay. 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I think Val is more of a dreamer like Ba and Jamie (and mum) are probably more realists. I also think their genders play a role, making Val Daddy's Little Girl and Jamie a Momma's Boy. Jamie may have felt more pressure from Ba as well, all making it uncomfortable for him at home and seeing Val with similar dreams is tough on him. I think it was good for Val to see the workings here to visualize Jamie's role and the comraderie he has. 2y

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TheBookHippie

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Bo in lifeboat with Valora overhearing men talk about boat going fast and needing to go faster..

https://www.nbcnews.com/sciencemain/10-causes-titanic-tragedy-620220

Helping us with why the sinking happens.

When I first heard this I was like of course an arrogant man and of course money is involved…

What do you think of Bo?
He gambled to tie the bet?!

Librarybelle I‘m almost wondering if there will be a love interest angle between Bo and Valora. It doesn‘t surprise me about the gambling. 2y

AmyG I think that him and Valora….❤️ And interesting article. Always money, usually men. (edited) 2y

Sargar114 Bo and Valora will definitely be “shipped” (see what I did there 😂). Bo seems loyal, I thought he was looking out for Jamie who didn‘t want his sister to win and knows he shouldn‘t be gambling so Bo did. 2y

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Sargar114 Also of course the pursuit of money by already wealthy men leads to the cause of this disaster 2y

TheBookHippie @Sargar114 Always and forever… 2y

Deblovestoread I thought it was interesting that Bo won enough money so Jamie and Valora were tied. And no surprise about the reasons for speeding up the trip. 2y

kspenmoll No surprised about the Captain agreeing to speed up the ship-didn‘t he save himself? Trying to remember- taking a place in a lifeboat? Not sure, I will have to look that up. Bo seems to be a good friend to Jamie. 2y

kspenmoll Ha I should have read the article before I responded, not after! Thanks @TheBookHippie for posting that! 2y

DebinHawaii @Sargar114 🤣 🛳 🤣 @TheBookHippie Interesting article! I figured there would be a romance between Bo & Valora & like that we won enough to tie but not send her home. I‘m hoping he isn‘t Jack in this story & there is room in the door for him! 😬 2y

Karisa @Sargar114 👏👏👏😂😂😂 2y

Karisa I didn‘t realize that greed via speed of the Titanic was a reason for them sinking. It does make a lot of sense. Again, romance is not always necessary writers… but Bo does seem nice so it‘s ok 😂 2y

mollyrotondo Yeah the Titanic was just a money grab. That‘s why I really try not to bask in the beauty of the ship since it‘s was built to make money not to safely transport passengers and everyone let them get away with it thinking they were lining their pockets too. Disgusting. I liked that they learn about this in a lifeboat that they probably won‘t be allowed to board. But Bo seems like a good guy. I like most of Jamie‘s friends. 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I mentioned last week that there may be a little romance brewing between Val & Bo and this made it seem more likely...well, as much as one can develop in a matter of days. Family is what you make it and I think Bo wanted to help his brother Jamie, maybe because he doesn't want to lose him to the NY circus scene. BUT if he's a little sweet on Val, he doesn't want her to lose either, hence the tie. 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick As for the accident being cause from a man going to fast over money and prestige, well, disappointed but not surprised. Especially since historically you had to be the Top Dog! 2y

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TheBookHippie

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April telling Valora to overlook the beef she has with her brother Jamie before it‘s to late…Foreshadowing ? Something April has experienced or both?

https://vintagefashions.co/history-and-fashion-trends-of-the-titanic-how-was-the...

Librarybelle I took this as advice that April knows from experience, though the foreshadowing angle could be true (anything like this on the Titanic makes for good foreshadowing!) 2y

AmyG I agree with @Librarybelle 2y

Sargar114 It seemed like good advice in general, usually people that say that have the experience of losing someone. Could definitely be foreshadowing. 2y

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Deblovestoread I agree with @Librarybelle It sounded like it came from experience in her own life. 2y

kspenmoll @Librarybelle I agree with @Librarybelle . April comes across as a woman who will take risks & who has experienced life, both good & bad. 2y

DebinHawaii I took it as advice from her own life experience, maybe with her father, but knowing what we know is going to happen, foreshadowing probably plays a role as well. 2y

Karisa The article‘s dresses were beautiful! That Kimono and hobble skirt dress look just like how I image April‘s designs 😍 Definitely a storm cloud hanging over this book remembering what‘s about to go down (couldn‘t resist the bad pun there sorry 😅) 2y

mollyrotondo Definitely foreshadowing uhhh. I just feel like one of them isn‘t going to make it by the end. But April probably understands from experience what it‘s like to lose someone without resolving past issues. 2y

mollyrotondo Amazing fashion article. So much work to get dressed on a boat 😂 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I can get behind the boots under long dresses (90's fashion was my jam!) but the hobble skirts and hats would make me a hermit or just unfashionable. Foreshadowing I think. I worry that Jamie isn't going to make it. According to the epigraph & the articles you've shared, we know that not all the Chinese survive. I doubt Valora dies, but is she included in that tally or is she still “Mrs Sloan“. The 2 boys should be safe, but the others? 2y

TheBookHippie @Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick OH MY WORD. I didn‘t even think of that! Mrs Sloane! 2y

TheBookHippie @mollyrotondo Did they have staff to dress them ?! 😂🤦🏻‍♀️ 2y

mollyrotondo @TheBookHippie I hope so! I would certainly need the help 😂 2y

TheBookHippie @mollyrotondo I‘d be a hot mess. My prek class claps if I match 😂😂😂. 2y

mollyrotondo @TheBookHippie I‘m just always getting my arms stuck in clothes and am horrible with zippers 😂 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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The best way to counter bad luck is to make some luck of your own.
Somethings always going to happen..
Who goes further?
Those who accept their lot in life or those who refuse?

Librarybelle You hear a lot of stories of people who continue to work hard, despite the odds… 2y

AmyG Some luck you can‘t create. But you can work hard to try to overcome your “lot in life”. It works for some, not for others. Probably due to the luck you can‘t create. 2y

Sargar114 Fortune favors the bold, right? While you can exist and survive by putting your head down and working, real change doesn‘t happen without taking some risk. 2y

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Deblovestoread I agree with @AmyG and @Sargar114 Sometimes you can make your own good luck but for others it is all bad luck even when they are doing all the things they say we should do… 2y

kspenmoll @AmyG I agree with @AmyG @Sargar114 Some people can make their “luck” while others do not have the strength or imagination to take risks- maybe afraid of the unknown, or afraid to fail. 2y

DebinHawaii I agree with what has been said. We can‘t always overcome the obstacles facing us but we never will if we don‘t try. 2y

Karisa @DebinHawaii 💯% agree 2y

NikkiM5 I am so hearing Billy Zane‘s line from Titanic. “A real man makes his own luck.” 🤣And he does survive in the movie (sorry for a 20 plus year old spoiler 🤣). I believe one does control their luck/destiny. 2y

TheBookHippie @NikkiM5 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 HA! Good memory! 2y

mollyrotondo I always say the only luck I have is bad luck. Definitely need to go after things or else you‘ll just remain standing still. I like that Val is so bold. Very admirable. 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick Not everyone is lucky! I am lucky with small things - free books, concert tickets, someone buys me a drink - but less so with things that matter more. A bold move might not be the right move. For someone else, a small change could move mountains. I think it's ultimately a combination of luck, who you know, being in the right place at the right time, and willingness to trample over your fear. 2y

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TheBookHippie

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😅good morning!

Dining

The level of prejudice with the bread. Wow. And yet. Still happens today.
Thoughts?

Valora‘s nerve to ask for bread in the first place, will this serve her well in life?

https://www.history.com/news/last-meal-on-titanic

https://www.titanicbelfast.com/history-of-titanic/titanic-stories/titanic-food-f...

Librarybelle It definitely does not surprise me, and I am sure it sadly still happens today. I think Valora‘s gumption will help her in the future. 2y

AmyG I love Valora. Good for her to stand up to hatred. Sadly, we still need to do that. 2y

Sargar114 I kinda read her asking as naivety, she had a limited world before coming to the titanic and while her employers were abusive; the one women who got her the ticket on board wasn‘t and so I thought she asked cause she didn‘t think much of it other than the inequality. Otherwise, those subtle inequalities are sometimes worse than some of the more outright ones. 2y

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Deblovestoread I think she has figured out you can‘t get what you want by being silent. Asking for bread, asking Jamie to join her in America and if asking won‘t work maybe scheming a little. Not surprised by the hard bread heels. Some (or a lot of people) will take every opportunity to show you they think you are less than they are. (edited) 2y

kspenmoll I think she has a deep awareness of the existing prejudice against the Chinese. At one point she mentioned objects being thrown at her by the rich lady she served( the one she is impersonating). I admire the way she can think quickly on her feet..& her love for her brother. 2y

DebinHawaii I like her gumption & I think it will serve her well. It is sad that she had to ask & the results of what she got due to hatred & prejudice but I liked that she used those heels in her juggling act to make money. 2y

Karisa @AmyG @DebinHawaii I like Valora too. I was surprised they even had everyone eating in the same room on the ship. It‘s not fair, but it seems like workers (and those with less) are often kept separate from the rich even today. I also find myself wondering how Valora stayed employed by Mrs. Sloane. Val doesn‘t strike me as the type to put up with being treated as inferior and from how she describes the Sloanes they sounded very traditional types. 2y

mollyrotondo Uhh the bread heels. This was so infuriating. I really appreciate a story like this for highlighting how mistreated the lower classes and racial inferior people on this famous boat. We know the lower classes were locked down in the lower levels in order to prevent them from getting on the way too few lifeboats but we don‘t hear about the treatment they endured during the trip. It‘s disgusting and glad Val takes these types of stands. 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick She knows there are prejudices against the Chinese & the poor, but nevertheless, she persisted. Not everyone is built w/ the gumption to speak up, draw attention to, & try fixing inequalities, so it's great to Valora is one of those people who are built like that. The times, they are a-changing...maybe not overnight or huge steps, but it will serve her well to take up space in the world and try for better treatment of the poor, Chinese, & women. 2y

TheBookHippie @Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I agree! 2y

TheBookHippie @mollyrotondo It‘s so disgusting -all around. Just breaks my heart. 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

See you SUNDAY for Chapters 11-20!

#SundayBuddyRead

https://money.cnn.com/galleries/2012/pf/1203/gallery.titanic-auction/5.html

https://fineartamerica.com/featured/hat-from-the-titanic-patrick-landmannscience...

rubyslippersreads I‘m just finishing Chapter 20 (the curse of having too many books going at once), so will be commenting soon. 2y

TheBookHippie @rubyslippersreads 🙃 same problem here. 😅😂 2y

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kspenmoll

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

#sundaybuddyread #endpapers

Beautiful, informative end papers.

TheBookHippie

TheBookHippie Such great things in the beginning! I love it! 2y

Librarybelle I really loved the map for this! 2y

EvieBee Okay. Maps are a clincher for me. Adding to the TBR. 2y

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kspenmoll

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

Finishing this up this morning for #sundaybuddyread

TheBookHippie

TheBookHippie Oh that looks so cozy!!! 2y

Cathythoughts Love all the blues on the table 💙 2y

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AmyG

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

I so enjoyed this. I don‘t want to say too much as #SundayBuddyRead is still reading it. I had to finish as it needed to be returned to the library. But if you are reading it- enjoy. It‘s a wonderful story.
@TheBookHippie

TheBookHippie 🤍 2y

vlwelser I loved this one too. I read it before seeing this year's list. @TheBookHippie 2y

TheBookHippie @vlwelser 😩😂😬 I‘m thinking of going through her backlog for next year and picking one! 2y

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vlwelser @TheBookHippie I vote for this one.

Outrun the Moon

vlwelser @AmyG sorry. We may have started a tangent on your book review. 2y

TheBookHippie @vlwelser THAT IS THE EXACT ONE ! I‘m thinking of for next March 😂💙 2y

AmyG Ha @vlwelser I welcome this discussion. And @TheBookHippie I agree we should read Outrun the Moon in 2023! 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD

I usually wouldn‘t read about THE TITANIC on purpose but this is such an interesting angle I am fascinated.

YA is a fun genre when it makes the reader think and learn new history.

Did I miss anything? This was a bit of laying it all out. Now we begin into the meat of the story I think.

I am enjoying it quite a bit! My research was busy this week!

AmyG I am reading to the end....and first section is a laying out of the plot. Each section becomes more exciting. I am really enjoying this book...it‘s filled with clever storylines. 2y

Librarybelle Liking it so far! 2y

mollyrotondo I actually do like reading about the Titanic 🥸😆 I like that this is told from a perspective we never hear from when reading about this historic tragedy. Finally something so talked about from a nonwhite, non British perspective. 2y

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Sargar114 Yeah this was a great set up and introduction to the key characters 2y

NikkiM5 This is my first Titanic related book, but I have always been interested in its history. I love googling the names that have shown up in the book thus far. And I‘m enjoying the MC a lot too. 2y

TheBookHippie @NikkiM5 lots of google this week! 2y

kspenmoll I am really enjoying this with its focus on Chinese/fashion/circus. 2y

Karisa I‘m liking it too. For being mostly set up, the author has done a great job keeping it fun, interesting, and moving well. Curious to know if April is real… Guess I‘ll be hitting Google too, @nikkim5 and @mollyrotondo 😂 2y

Deblovestoread I went through a Titanic phase and read lots but there is always something new to learn. I am trying to enjoy getting to know these characters without worrying about their fate…but it‘s hard! (edited) 2y

TheBookHippie @Kdgordon88 I remember when the movie came out people would not stop talking about it .. and I wouldn‘t let my daughter see it -who was I think 10, all her classmates could see it so I was a horrible mom 😂🤦🏻‍♀️🙄. 2y

wallacereads I am really enjoying this one and love the angle. Great pick! 2y

DebinHawaii It was a great set up & I am both looking forward to & seriously dreading what comes next. I have read a few different Titanic books both fiction & no , but I love this different perspective on it. It definitely will be hard for me to hold off reading the next section until the weekend. 🤭 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I have been fascinated by the Titanic story since I was young. It's a real event, but didn't hit close to home so to speak (pun unintended), and so I found it very interesting. I watched the movie and on VHS it was two tapes. My 4 year old cousin liked to watch the ship sink, so I saw the melee of the film many times. He didn't care much for the rich promenading on the poop deck or voluptuous Kate Winslet at the time. 😂 2y

rubyslippersreads @TheBookHippie @Kdgordon88 I remember that some people wouldn‘t let their kids see it because of Kate Winslet‘s nude scene, but they didn‘t mind their kids seeing hundreds of people dying gruesome deaths in freezing water. 😏 2y

TheBookHippie @rubyslippersreads NOT THE NUDE SCENE 😂😂😂😅🙃 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD

Well the stage is set we‘ve got our people and here we go! I‘m reading and then go OH this is sinking soon! Anyone lose the fact that this sinks SOON?!

Menus from THE Titanic :

https://www.thespruceeats.com/food-and-menus-on-the-rms-titanic-1912-435459

AmyG I am reading this all at once as it‘s from the library, due in a few days and I can‘t renew it (waitlist). But as I was reading...I kept waiting for the iceberg moment! Yes....you know it‘s coming. I will also say....each section of this book gets better and better. (edited) 2y

Librarybelle It‘s sad to think that many of these people may not make it off of the ship. 2y

mollyrotondo It‘s all I‘m thinking about! It‘s already April 11 so it‘s going to hit the iceberg in just two more days. Will it matter if they get to meet Albert Stewart? Do we know if he originally survived? Will her and her brother strengthen their relationship before the iceberg hits? Will they both survive? I can only think of tragedy 🤦🏻‍♀️ 2y

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Sargar114 It‘s all I‘m thinking about reading this!!!! So tense! 2y

NikkiM5 No, the fact it will sink is very heavy in my thoughts, in every chapter 😭especially when her brother mentions the amount of lifeboats available. 2y

NikkiM5 @mollyrotondo yes, the time moving so quickly stressed me initially. 2y

TheBookHippie @NikkiM5 AND no oars! How they got away with not enough boats plus the not filing them has always bothered me. 2y

kspenmoll I thought it would sink later- but we will see. I did know about the oars separated from the lifeboats & the fact that the lifeboat ratio to passengers/crews were ridiculously inadequate. 2y

Karisa @mollyrotondo Exactly! Two days 😱 Not much time if she wants to convince her brother, practice, impress the circus guy… I keep thinking about how two of the Chinese people on board won‘t make it alive (please not the kids, please not Valora/Jamie…) 2y

TheBookHippie @Karisa MY SAME THOUGHTS ! Not the kids ! 2y

DebinHawaii Yes, the dates & knowing the ship sank four days into its voyage are making me tense. 😬 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I know what happens to the Titanic and that makes this even more nerve-wracking than the St James ghost stories. We're reading about these people, learning about them, and I don't wish any of them dead. I want them all to survive. KNOWING the ship is going down, it just makes this all the more tense because it can happen at any minute. If 6 Chinese survived, with Val sneaking on, does she count as 1 of the 6? Is there a budding romance with Bo? 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD

April Hart haute couture

I‘m liking this twist, she seems a good conspirator for Valora to team with!

Fashion was A THING. Which I didn‘t think about either. Is there still this level in society ?

Fun reads:

https://www.latimes.com/socal/daily-pilot/entertainment/tn-dpt-0413-titanic-2012...

https://www.blue17.co.uk/vintage-blog/womens-fashion-1912-the-titanic/

AmyG I enjoyed the fashion “take”. I liked April. I am guessing it was a big thing for the rich. Isn‘t it still today? (edited) 2y

Librarybelle I think fashion has always been a thing, especially with the rich. Show you‘re on the cutting edge of trends. This book takes place on the really final days of extreme opulence for larger group of the minority. The US 16th Amendment ratified in 1913 set up the income tax system, which made a lot of the rich suddenly cash strapped (you see the decline of the “cottages” & the razing of the “cottages” after this). 1912 was a last hurrah for the rich. 2y

mollyrotondo @Librarybelle oooo very interesting fact. Thank you! 2y

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mollyrotondo I do think the wealthy have similar fashion statements they must make in order to stay relevant. There is more “casual” wear nowadays but still an expectation to dress in expensive designer pieces at all times. I also love April Hart! I think she is an interesting person for us to meet on the Titanic. 2y

Sargar114 I love April. I highlighted the quote “her grip is solid, a grip that could open her own doors.” I loved that characterization. Agree with everyone where it seems fashion always seems to be a thing. It‘s the first thing people notice but also the easiest way to hide cover up if you‘re not who you say as in this story. 2y

kspenmoll @Librarybelle Thanks for the tax info! I also loved the fashion twist & April. April‘s way of competing with a rather conventional/rigid fashion brand. I find myself hoping she survives. 2y

Karisa @Sargar114 I love April too. Great quote! 😍 2y

Karisa How did they just bring one trunk then? 😂 Feels like they‘d need a few to meet those societal pressures. Reminds me of Inventing Anna and the amounts she spent trying to keep up with the high flyers… such a great limited run series! 2y

Karisa Just read the articles… $681,000 for one woman‘s clothing onboard in todays $ (according to insurance report)! WTH?! Was she scamming that insurance claim or for real? 😂 Also, fashion articles should always have photos! I want to see these dresses! 2y

TheBookHippie @Karisa I HAD ALL THESE THOUGHTS. 2y

Deblovestoread I think fashion still plays a role in society. And we still make assumptions about people by how they are dressed. 2y

TheBookHippie @Karisa inventing Anna was like HOLY COWS 😳 2y

Karisa @TheBookHippie I know right?! So strange, so good! 2y

DebinHawaii @Karisa @TheBookHippie Inventing Anna was crazy! 🤯 2y

TheBookHippie @DebinHawaii I still can‘t believe it!!!! 2y

DebinHawaii I have read a few books on the Titanic, non-fiction & historical fiction & have always been fascinated by the opulence of the fashion, the food, the staterooms in the upper classes & the contrast between the different classes so I am enjoying all of the descriptions in this book. I really like April but I am afraid to like her too much. I love her “obviously you didn‘t get a woman‘s opinion” remarks. 😂 2y

TheBookHippie @DebinHawaii 😂😂😂😅😅😅 2y

Karisa @DebinHawaii Yeah, I think I don‘t want to get too attached to any of the characters in this book either 🚢😢 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I like April & am hoping both she & Val survive...after giving men their opinions on how to save lives more efficiently. 😂 Fashion is still a thing and it's funny to see who does chic classic pieces and who does batshit crazy on the runway. I am so glad I don't need to change 7 times a day, but I do wish there were less PJs in public. It's awards season now, so celebs need for show, press junket, after party - 3 outfits for the popular. 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I would like to see how much less the men's claims were. Seems they didn't need quite as many garments, but I could be wrong. @Librarybelle Thank you for the info about the Income Tax. I didn't know when the fall of the extreme opulence began but that all makes total sense. @Karisa I am 100% with you. I refreshed my screen hoping the photos just didn't load up the first 3 times. I want pictures! 2y

rubyslippersreads @Librarybelle I remember from the movie that income tax is Cal‘s downfall. 😏 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD

Valoras dreams seem intense!
Chinese afterlife is done thing I‘ve been looking up this week now! Anyone know it well?

https://www.chinosity.com/2021/04/10/the-chinese-afterlife-from-death-to-reborn-...

Ba
Dreamer BUT an alcoholic it seems.

Is Valora like her father, but still young? Hope yet.

Anyone else find it interesting the mom was British!?

AmyG Here was something I found....Valoras name and Valor, Virtue.... De, also written as Te, is a key concept in Chinese philosophy, usually translated "inherent character; inner power; integrity" in Taoism, "moral character; virtue; morality" in Confucianism and other contexts, and "quality; virtue" or "merit; virtuous deeds" in Chinese Buddhism. 2y

AmyG As for the Mom, mixed marriages happen. Explains why they were living in Englands it was her home. 2y

TheBookHippie @AmyG OO!!! Lovely find! Excellent! 2y

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TheBookHippie @AmyG I thought it was so brave! Even today people are not so kind I can‘t imagine the ignorance - although probably same same! 😩 2y

AmyG My DIL and family is Chinese, my grandson half Chinese.....so seeing the hate for the Chinese in the book (and now) is very difficult. People today can be so horrible...we see it everywhere....look at Ukraine. @TheBookHippie (edited) 2y

TheBookHippie @AmyG It‘s just all so unnecessary… 2y

Librarybelle Thanks for the info, @AmyG ! As for the mixed marriage, I was surprised given the times, but we also see that some of her family practically disowned the mum and kids and refused to talk to Ba. 2y

AmyG @Librarybelle Makes sense that hr family would pretty much disown her given the times. I am sure families do the same today, sadly. 2y

mollyrotondo @AmyG thank you for this breakdown! I am very curious about these dreams especially since we know a tragedy will occur in the next couple of days on this boat. Both dreams show trees (wood=wood door), one water, and Jamie not helping. I wonder if Jamie survives on the door and neglects to help his sister? I feel like Jamie should be shown these dreams instead of Valora lol 2y

TheBookHippie @mollyrotondo ooooo. That‘s a good thought! 2y

TheBookHippie @Librarybelle Exactly. 2y

Sargar114 Those dreams are intense!!! I very much see the similarities between Ba and Val. Leads me back to the last question and Jamie being concerned with that. Lee played with the mix heritage theme in the Downstairs Girl as well. 2y

kspenmoll Her dreams add so much to this story. And @AmyG thanks for the information you shared; totally helped to understand the depth in Val‘s dreams. It makes sense that she feels if Jamie can forgive her father he will not be stuck between worlds. 2y

kspenmoll Mixed marriages probably more accepted in England than US- just an assumption as they also banned slavery earlier than US. 2y

kspenmoll Thanks for the article on the afterlife. I wonder where their father would be. What do Chinese think of addition? 2y

Karisa I find the Chinese beliefs in about death and the afterlife fascinating and beautiful too. The tagged novel below centers around them and has gorgeous prose—it‘s YA but has depth

Astonishing Color of After

Karisa @AmyG Thank you! Those are some big names to live up to for the twins! 2y

Deblovestoread Thanks for the info, Amy. I‘m sorry your family has to experience the ugliness that our country has for others. I wish people would wake up. @AmyG 2y

DebinHawaii Interesting article @TheBookHippie & I love the explanation of the names @AmyG I was also interested in the white feather on the floor pointing to twelve o‘clock that Olly found & started down the rabbit hole of looking up the meaning last night & didn‘t get too far because… sleep. 😴 Definitely a feeling of foreboding building as we know what is happening soon. 😱 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I knew very little about the Chinese afterlife going in. Val's dreams are wild! Knowing what happens to the ship, I am reading with bated breath, but I also am trying not to read into every little thing so I didn't make connections with the dreams. In general I think mixed race back then was surprising, but for a modern book looking back, it does show that not everyone was close-minded back then which is a comfort. 2y

rubyslippersreads @AmyG That‘s really interesting. 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD

Jamie
Doesn‘t have the same fondness for his Ba or a desire to be an acrobat ..
Loved his mum so very much ..
Two children same house different childhood experiences and feelings. This is not unusual. But/
Did you read him as perturbed with his sister? Not happy to see her?
Is he just a realist?

AmyG I think he was happy to see her yet was very concerned about her.....how did she get there, was she safe. And I think they, obviously, had different relationships with their parents. Seems to be alot of baggage there. We all view things through different lenses. (edited) 2y

Librarybelle Maybe optimistically cautious of seeing her??? 2y

mollyrotondo I also felt like Jamie was annoyed to see his sister. He barely even mentioned he had a sister to his work friends which I find strange. We do connect differently to mothers and fathers but since they are both the same age I do find it interesting that Jamie disliked his father more. Sometimes the older sibling understands more the destructiveness of a parent that younger sibling can‘t see just yet. But they are twins so I‘m surprised. 2y

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mollyrotondo I‘m wondering if the father pushed Jamie more in order to build him up to be a strong acrobat. More than his daughter. Jamie really seems like a guy who wanted to escape his whole family which is super sad since he has his twin. 2y

Sargar114 I read Jamie as more being practical and seeing her was concerned for her and her ability to survive. It seemed like growing up the way he did, always on the outskirts being mixed raced he may have prioritized surviving in a world that doesn‘t want them in it. He seems interested in protecting her and worried that she has her fathers character and is much more ambitious and reckless. 2y

kspenmoll Agree with everything people said. Jamie did seem more practical & seemed to want a job & have a stable life, unlike the twins own experience growing up. Val herself knew she was a “visionary” like her dad. 2y

NikkiM5 I too felt Jamie was not happy to see her. Like she is history that he is trying to escape, but I feel he warms up to her. And I also agree Val and Ba are similar, they are “dreamers”. I can relate to Jamie in the sense that dreaming is great but there are often consequences along with dreaming. He may be tired of fixing, taking care of, and babysitting dreamers. Wow just read that, boy am I projecting 🤣 I still love the MC though. 2y

TheBookHippie @NikkiM5 😂😂😂😂 2y

Karisa @NikkiM5 @mollyrotondo I read those parts and thought he didn‘t want her there too. It is strange that he didn‘t even mention her to his crew mates. I thought it seemed like he was trying to start a new life and maybe running away from the old. He‘s so friendly with others but a bit cold to his twin he hasn‘t seen in so long 2y

Deblovestoread I think Jamie didn‘t want the life that was mapped out for him as an acrobat. He was looking for security and willing to work hard. I think he assumed his sister was safe with dad in Britain and it didn‘t have anything to do with his new life so he didn‘t share it. He was surprised to see her and maybe unhappy to have her to worry about. 2y

wallacereads I agree that Jamie is just being practical. He has a clear plan and Val‘s impulsiveness scares him. 2y

DebinHawaii I agree with what has been said too. It seemed like Jamie wanted to think Val was settled well in her job & safe so he could continue on with making his own path in life without worrying about her & then she shows up taking all kinds of risks & trying to blow his more practical plan out of the water & bringing back memories he doesn‘t like. 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I think Jamie was unhappy with his upbringing & tried to leave as much of it behind when he went off to work. I can imagine that not talking about “home“ often could make being away easier over time. I think he was surprised & concerned, not mad that Valora is there, but definitely unexpected and now his mates may question why he never mentioned her either. Was there mention of their looks? Does one twin look more Chinese than the other? 2y

TheBookHippie @Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I have wondered that same thing is Jamie more British. 2y

rubyslippersreads I think Jamie sees how well being a visionary worked out for Ba, and wants the opposite for himself, even if that seems like a mundane life to Val. 2y

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TheBookHippie

Luck of the Titanic | Stacey Lee

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#SUNDAYBUDDYREAD

Valora
Gumption in massive amounts!

On the boat. Phew. We‘re you aware of the Chinese Act ?

https://www.history.com/topics/immigration/chinese-exclusion-act-1882

It impressed on me that even though it came up in THE DOWNSTAIRS GIRL we read together, it still gave me pause… Thoughts?

https://asia.nikkei.com/Life-Arts/Arts/Chinese-survivors-of-Titanic-disaster-ide...

AmyG I had no idea about The Chinese survivors. I am hoping that 6 also survive in this book. I am reading waiting for the iceberg. 2y

Librarybelle I was not aware of the Chinese survivors, but I did know about the Chinese Exclusion Act from my history background. Horrific! And something that was not mentioned when I was going through school. 2y

mollyrotondo I had no idea there were 6 Chinese survivors. I even went to a Titanic exhibit in NYC a number of years ago and I don‘t recall this being mentioned. I also find it appalling @Librarybelle that I learned nothing about the Chinese Exclusion Act during any of my schooling. Yet another piece of our history that this country ignores. 2y

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Librarybelle @mollyrotondo Yes! It took me until high school in an advanced placement history class to know anything about the Japanese interment camps during WWII. Terrible! Thinking back, I think this class also covered the Chinese Exclusion Act a little bit, but still, not part of the regular curriculum. 😐 2y

Sargar114 @Librarybelle same! It‘s a little embarrassing not knowing about it and then being surprised reading this. @AmyG I‘m reading with the iceberg in mind as well, very tense. 2y

mollyrotondo @Librarybelle it‘s interesting because I remember reading about the Japanese internment camps in middle school because we read a book about it but it never went beyond middle school. High School didn‘t really touch on it from what I remember. So all my knowledge of it really came from my middle school exposure. But the discrimination against the Chinese was not discussed (at least thoroughly) in school. Maybe a textbook mentioned it but no more. 2y

TheBookHippie @mollyrotondo I learned nada in school. Just unfathomable .. 2y

kspenmoll Being a history major, I did know about the Chinese Exclusion Act. I just asked my son(Titanic was one of his childhood “obsessions” & he told me where they actually hit the iceberg-Don‘t want to spoil the tension so… I couldn‘t take my anxiousness so I cheated & asked him! 2y

Karisa Valor is so plucky! I like her. We teach about The Chinese Exclusion Act a little in sixth grade just for context when we read Dragonwings together. So much racism in history. I‘d always thought about it in connection with California‘s history and hadn‘t thought about the Titanic as being around that same time period. Amazing and so sad that the act lasted so long (1882-1943) 2y

Deblovestoread I did not know about the Chinese Exculsion Act. Another gap in my education. It is hard to read a book that has such a major historical tragedy as a plot. I almost don‘t want to like anyone because I am afraid for them. It is stressful! 2y

DebinHawaii I am liking Valora‘s “pluckiness” so far & also enjoying April, but yes, @Kdgordon88 I am afraid to get to attached to anyone. I learned about the Chinese Exclusion Act from historical fiction—we were taught a bit about the Japanese Internment camps & the Chinese working on the Transcontinental railroad but not much else which is shameful. 2y

DebinHawaii This is an older article but also good about the six: https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/retropolis/wp/2018/04/19/why-youve-never-hea... 2y

Reynosa8701 I did not know that this existed! I just started reading “the downstairs girl” and it makes me angry! 2y

Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick Hearing of this Act was news to me here. I remember there was racism toward the Chinese in The Downstairs Girl, but didn't realize there was legislation about it. Hearing that it was a 60 year period, partly during my grandmother's lifetime, is appalling. Reading about the Act and the reasons it was enacted, it rings strong similarities to arguments against people coming in from Mexico and Latin America. “They'll steal our jobs“. 2y

TheBookHippie @Kelly_the_Bookish_Sidekick I thought the same thing. Time doesn‘t change things much. 😡 2y

TheBookHippie @DebinHawaii Thanks! It‘s such an amazing unknown fact. 2y

rubyslippersreads I didn‘t know about the Chinese Exclusion Act. I‘ve seen the movie and read quite a bit about Titanic, but I didn‘t know Cameron “borrowed “ the wooden door bit. (edited) 2y

TheBookHippie @rubyslippersreads RIGHT?! Who KNEW?!?! 2y

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