Flowers to my lovely wife Garima for our 7th wedding anniversary. The quote I used “I shall do one thing in this life, one thing certain, that is, love you, and long for you, and keep wanting you until I die,” captured me from Thomas Hardy‘s Far from the Madding Crowd. ❤️

After watching the Tom Hanks and Del Toro versions, I couldn‘t help but wonder at the difference of the motion picture vs the original children‘s classic from 1876. Collodi‘s classic is more geared toward a nineteenth century reader that has scarcer resources, whereby a child has to behave and most likely grow into the trade their parents possessed in order to thrive due to the lack of educational resources at that time. Rating: Book over Movie.

After finishing this novel, I am reminded of the saying, “you are who your friends are.” This book displays the unhealthy relationship between two men who have not progressed in maturity and have decidedly regressed themselves in debauchery, drugs, and alcohol while traveling back and forth through the country with no real aim in life. What seems to me an empty and hollow life that can be learned from as opposed to being engaged in. 4/10.

Went to PA to visit with friends, after leaving I happened to come across a bookstore. I told myself I wouldn‘t buy another book this year…. I need to start setting realistic goals and expectations for myself.

I picked this up on a whim at a habitat for humanity down in Pittsboro, North Carolina a couple years back and honestly did not expect to like it. A bit simple throughout but I couldn‘t help getting vested in the characters and the story as a whole. I enjoyed the pieces of Italian history, architecture, and opera throughout and I would say overall that this was a fun and enjoyable read.

Well! It was tough, but I did it! I sold 13 books to my local bookstore for store credit and walked out with three that I have been wanting to read for some time.

Quick question for all my readers out there, to donate or not to donate? That is the question. I have read all of these amongst other works. These in particular I did not enjoy and have decided to sell them to my local bookstore at a loss and whatever they do not want, I would donate to the local library. I had a hard time letting go, but came to the conclusion that I would never reread them, and it would be better in someone else‘s hands.

After reading Dante‘s trilogy of the Divine Comedy I am ready to mail my copy to my cousin who enjoyed the inferno. He has not read Purgatorio and Paradiso yet and I hope he will better appreciate the other two as much as the Inferno. I for one enjoyed very little and wanted to know from my fellow readers, Do you you keep books you read and disliked? I did for some time but have started to keep only books that I have enjoyed and will reread again.

I have to say that I really enjoyed Hardy‘s short story compilation. Different themes throughout and even an unexpected witch story that I would most definitely reread. Highly recommend, perfect for a road trip or a train ride on the pacific coast.

I‘m not a strong advocate for the writings of William Faulkner, as it is clear that the authors close minded views are developed within the framework of his work. Racially biased and strong stereotypical attitudes are often purported throughout, but also have a contradictory and opposite effect on what the author was trying to portray of displaying how short sighted the post civil war south was, ie segregation, Jim Crow, & the lack of humanity.

Displays how fate can be all powerful, that when one is destined to a certain end, that end will be met no matter how divergent the alternate path may be. The Aeneid portrays destiny but also portrays the human animal spirits lust for war and constant imperialism throughout the ages. In every civilization, no matter how powerful, will irrevocably dwindle back down to their pre-imperial state or worse. “Only the dead have seen the end of war.”

Another one of Hardy‘s books that do not disappoint. This was a short story but still had some depth. After reading several of his novels, you can see this being one of his earlier works as he has developed further as a writer as time passed on between novels. I really enjoyed the antiquated, hardy characters set in the pastoral English scene, painted by the author in a way that no other could match.

I am sorry to say that was the worst book I have ever read from cover to cover. Never again will I reread this monstrosity. This novel does not deserve the acclaim that it receives. Disjointed in perpetuity whereby the common tongue throughout the book was gibberish. Reading this novel according to literary reviews can be life or mind changing, the only thing that this novel has changed was my opinion of the author.

Praphupada‘s purports if anything makes one contradict the actual teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, also the translators lifestyle contradict the teachings of goodness. Furthermore how does one in 15th century England or any other residing country in that time have the ability or linguistic capacity to have the knowledge of the Gita? That person would not have the opportunity, therefore it makes me further skeptical of the teachings as a whole.

Intimate in that the reader is able to view a first person perspective in a thought by thought analysis of the main characters and their psychological response to their environment , thoughts, and people around them. By getting into the everyday minutiae and the innate response of the mind depending on one‘s psychological makeup displaying differing emotions, perspectives, and mindset or diagnosis for that matter. That being said,

Published posthumously as it was Charlotte‘s first and not well received work. After reading The Professor, I am baffled that it was not published straight away. I find this one of the better books out of the three sisters, having now read them all. I would rate this right up with Jane Eyre, but only more condensed. I enjoyed the narrators character and the many principles that were instilled in the novel. Highly underrated and undervalued. ❤️

Well! That was an ending that I was not anticipating. One in which could be interpreted in a variety of ways. I would give you my interpretation but wouldn‘t want to spoil the novel for you. Overall, I enjoyed the book, some chapters could have benefited with being less redundant and more concise. I found it engaging but having read all of the Brontë sister works other than The Professor, I would say Jane Eyre is the greatest overall. 2 Paws Up!

Estate Sale book haul! A friend from work came to be about an estate sale nearby my house, whomever the inhabitants of the house were, they were arduous readers and had one of the most prolific collections I have laid eyes on! Antique books dating back to the mid 1800s, I picked up a collection of George Elliott from 1904 along with various other early edition paperbacks. I also purchased a tote from the sale to haul my booty!

Franny & Zooey, what can I say but definitely worth the time reading. Delves into the conscious of the young adult finding him and herself and the building of self awareness and the self itself. Not recommend for younger audiences as the language can be a bit profane at times. The dialogue in this story was first rate in the way it was written, it places you right there, in the story. Would be a good play or movie, if it hasn‘t already been done.

Book haul from my birthday trip to the Hudson River valley and Ithaca, NY. Not that it was necessary for an excuse to buy any new books, but having one made it that much more fun!

As a part of my yearly goal to read all of the works of the Brontë sisters, Shirley was apart of my required reading for the year. A far cry from Jane Eyre. I found Shirley lagging in plot, and difficult to imbed oneself into the story as I usually do in most of the books I read. To be fair it was well written but not to my taste, I would have shelfed it earlier if it was not a personal goal of mine to complete this novel in its entirety.

Finis. This is my second Austin novel that I have completed and faired much better than my first, Emma. Emma had the effect of disrepute and almost affected my to not read another Austin novel again. After admittedly watching and enjoying the Sanditon series and hearing of the release of Persuasion, I thought I would give Austin another chance, and I am very glad I did, the protagonist Anne has a tenderness one can‘t help finding admirable.

Thank you for the tag @EadieB

1. In some areas of my bookshelf, they are placed in a decorative manner… If that counts? I also read what I decorate with though 😉

2. My dog and my wife, I love them both but definitely my two biggest distractions in that order.

Can you play? @batsy @282Mikado @marleed @Dilara @Sparklemn @Kimberlone @staci.reads

About a young Chinese American woman trying to find herself and sharing her experiences with three other women who had a close and personal relationship with her recently deceased mother. At times I found the authors writing a little unorganized but also she has kept me engaged enough to want to finish the book. I will watch the film next and compare notes.

A book that takes you through the stages of the characters lives. Some ebbing and flowing between good and bad but most stay within their fixed characteristics. Lord Lorborough was the most relatable character who was associated with the wrong sort at an earlier part of this life, proof that you are who you associate yourself with. But Arthur was graced with his karma in the end. I would have never predicted the ending in the beginning.

Wildfell Hall, same initials as Wuthering Heights, coincidence or intentional? Similar to Wuthering Heights as the narrator is within the story telling the story to someone within the story. Except this is by letter. As per Wuthering Heights, the surrounding landscape deteriorates the closer you get to Wildfell Hall. Symbolism of the deprivation upon reaching proximity of the property enclosure. Some notes of similariity to sister Emily‘s work.

If I am being honest, this was not a very enjoyable read for me. A lot of back forth in changing hands of leadership from Lancaster house to York house, a stabbing here and there and not the greatest dialogue. It is Shakespeare‘s first play but I most definitely prefer Ibsen as a playwright.

“O graceless men! They know not what they do.”
#Russian ragged multitude

Very well written but very bleak, a sense reaching out for the most pessimistic response to anything internal or external within the confines of the book. I can‘t help but think that Emily had a very sordid view on humanity and in life in general. I not sure if I would pick this one back up as I need to be lifted out of the lull this book has shimmed me into. If I had to pick my favorite Brontë sister, Charlotte from what I read thus far.

I enjoyed the last two chapters and overall an enjoyable read, a bit more simplistic in development in comparison to Jane Eyre. I enjoyed the lightness and pertness of the story overall, short like a Hemmingway and not overly descriptive as a Dickens, and more enjoyable than an Austin. I would place this at the top 50% of books read by yours truly. Jane still wins out at this point though in the Bronte competition of 2022. Happy reading everyone!

The turmoil and persistent lamentations in this book is unequivocal. “Because we are to menny.” That quote has been burned in my memory for years to come. This is my third Hardy book this year and again have not been disappointed. I wish I could say more but do not want to spoil the story.

A little late to the game. Thank you @EadieB for the invite! 1. Jude Frawley so far as I am halfway through the novel Jude the Obscure and at least to this point I could see myself befriending Jude. 2. I‘m torn between Mr Pumblechook from Great Expectations as he is a pompous kno it all, or Alec D‘Urbeville from Tess of the D‘Urbevilles, Alec is a dirtbag of the highest order. 3. I am grateful for a great wife and great friends. 😊 @282Mikado

A very sad but enlightening tale on how societies rules and measures can have a significant effect upon the innocent. Choices made to honor thy parents, in turn a cascading effect of depravity and tumultuous turn outs follow. Sad as it may be, highly recommended as in learning how the hypocritical advances of society, at least in my observations may have shifted but alas, hypocrisy still follows in the guise of another animal.

So eloquently written and it has resemblances of differing books I have read in the past. Superb eloquence of dialogue within certain impoverished scenes, reminds me sometimes of Hugo, or when I am transcended to a more pastoral scene I feel like Hardy‘s hand is penning the page. Or during the scene of quaint but sophisticated and humble enjoyment I am transported to Howard‘s End. The ending had perceived notions of Great Expectations. Remarkable.

An amazing novel that will take you on a romantic journey through the pastoral English landscape. Hardy writes so eloquently placing you in the scene, surrounded in the pages as if you are really there. Even the use of language envisages the characters through the author‘s true lens. I also watched the BBC 2015 drama starring Carey Mulligan. Very well done, but the book still is better than the movie. Highly recommended. ❤️

The included photo is a gift from my lovely wife Garima. The collected works of Anne, Charlotte, and Emily Bronte. The Artwork on the dust jacket is from Juniper Books, apart of their Obvious State collection with Everyman‘s Library. Truly love this!

My office Secret Santa truly gets me. I also wanted to wish all my fellow bibliophiles a Happy Holidays!

A man of many masks, the Count of Monte Cristo teaches one to go through life with some degree of humanity and to remain humble to some degree. This masterpiece incessantly kept you on edge all throughout 1243 pages of pure ingeniousness. The ending was prolific and tied the rest of the novel together very nicely. My only criticism comes not from the novel itself but the publisher. I purchased this novel brand new and the etching is already worn.

Most definitely a comfort read that brings me back to the days of my childhood, reading Goosebumps and Fear Street and binging through the novels at a brisk rate. Rowling does a great job coercing the reader into the story and developing a strong bond with the characters. Consequently, I can hardly wait to read the sequel and say hello again to a great group of friends.

“The cohesion of biodiversity in a forest, the musicians in an orchestra, the members of a family growing through conversation and feedback, through memories and learning from the past, even if chaotic and unpredictable, leveraging scarce resources to thrive.” Mothers trees linking to a mycorrhizal network assisting primarily its own kin but also assisting trees apart of the surrounding network to improve the environment and further biodiversity.

Dracula or Drakulya who may have been based of the vicious, despotic, blood thirsty Wallachian (Romanian) ruler of the mid 15th century has hints of the man behind the undead mask‘s prior fleets in real life. The story in itself has defied my expectations. I honestly thought that this would be another tacky and fruitless horror novel but it was so much more than that! From Nosferatu to Dracula Untold, Stoker far exceeds the cinematic experience.

A children‘s classic from 1911 based in England. Although a children‘s classic, it could be purported as a young adult classic. A lovely read with mysticism and spiritual gathering, including all the best elements life has to offer. Love, community, wisdom, books, and gardens shaping to display that how one perceives life is how one will experience it. Fill your mind with the positive elements of your life suffusing little room for the negative.

A gift from my wife for my Birthday! And what a great gift indeed! ❤️

Little Dorrit demonstrates and insists on the possibility of moral self-cultivation and rewards or punishes those characters according to their moral behavior. In short, no one gets away with anything because everyone's accountable for themselves. The intricate development of the characters predisposes the reader to be heavily vested in the story‘s characters and the stories development, an overall delightful read!

If you have a love for history, an affinity for botany and gardening, then you will appreciate how the founding gardeners have been induced to take magnanimous roles for the betterment of our country but have always deigned to journey home to hearth and garden with their books amongst their garden where some trees planted were only second to Methuselah. I also appreciated the account of Bartram‘s garden and his contribution to the Franklinia.

When the skipper was attempting to dissuade the sailors from going on leave one of the sailors denouncing him as “a lying old son of a sea-cook who begrudged a fellow a few hours Liberty,” exclaimed an oath, “ but you don‘t bounce me out of my liberty, old chap, for all your yarns; for I would go ashore if every pebble on the beach was a live coal, and every stick a gridiron, and the cannibals stood ready to boil me on landing.”

“In the midst of this chopping sea of civilized life, such are the clouds and storms and quicksands and thousand-and-one items to be allowed for, that a man has to live.”

A little more drawn out then was necessary. Anna Karenina was more compact and definitely preferred over War & Peace. That being said, this is definitely a masterpiece and should be required reading. The second epilogue was repetitive. The point of free will vs the laws of nature could have been summed up in one chapter. 12 chapters was a little excessive to make this point. Much of the novel had many examples of excess indulgences throughout.

Not my cup of tea. The beauty of life is that we have many variations of people with many varying interests. This one did not peak mine after 136 pages. I will be giving this to a close friend who loves King‘s works. I know he will enjoy it more than I ever could. Bail for me.