ŷ������

Questions and Comments for July 14th; A Good Man is Hard to Find

12) Okay, you knew I had to ask--What is you're favorite book? Can you narrow it down to just one? I'm not sure I can.

13) So I had to look, and The Late Bloomer by Leon Friedman is a fictitious book. So I'm guessing this story of a man who finds love late in life only to lose it must have some significance. Any thoughts as to what? Could it have a tie in to the main character, AJ? Could you see him as a late bloomer? Perhaps not in love but something else?

14) What did you think of Ameilia and AJ's relationship? Do you think they'd be good for each other? It sounds like they live quite a distance from each other. Do you think they can make it work?

15) Has anyone else tried Turkish Delight? My kids and I did and we didn't think much of it either. What did you think of AJ's assessment that maybe "Edmund didn't need much coaxing to betray his family"? What about Amelia's hope that the Witch's Turkish delight was magically delicious? Are these statements telling of their personalities and outlook on life?

16) In what restaurant, based on a novel, would you like to dine? I personally wouldn't mind eating in the dinning hall of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry. lol

17) What do you think of AJ's transformation? Did Maya save him as much as he saved her? I like how he gave her the middle name Tamerlane. I think it symbolizes that he sees her as being worth a fortune.

18) What do you think of Lambaise's thought that, "pretty much every bad thing in life is a result of bad timing, and every good thing is the result of good timing." Do you agree?

17) I love the interaction with Maya. She does seem smarter than her age, doesn't she? I've met kids like that, my daughter being one, and it makes me smile.

18) I like that this chapter is started and ended with the book, A Good Man is Hard to Find by Flannery O'Connor. I feel like the author's trying to point out that AJ is a good man, if anyone doubted it at this point. Thoughts?

Sidenote: I think I know who took the book. Why they did? I have no clue. Let me just say, the "dream" he had of his wife the night the book was stolen is what leans me in a certain direction.

Karen, I would like that challenge, too. I actually started reading books out of that book, but didn't keep it up. I think the books are listed in the back, if I remember correctly.

1.Well who doesn't love a novel about bookshops or books?! (pssst you can use this book for the Books about Books Reading Challenge) Why did you decide to join this read? Have you read any other books by this author?

I love books about books! I like Jasper Fforde's books for that reason. This book looked interesting and I enjoy group reads.

2. Initial thoughts on the writing style? I love how the chapter title fits the content (Amelia was the lamb to the slaughter going to that bookshop to try for a sale!....Tamerlane being his "diamond" ) and the comments by A.J Fikry at the start of the chapters

I like the writing style. I enjoyed the titles and the blurbs/reviews at the beginning of the chapter.

3. This is one of those books that has a different title in the U.S than it does in other countries ("The Collected Works of A.J Fikry" v "The Storied Life of A.J Fikry"). What do you prefer? Do you have a preference of cover? I have this version
The Collected Works of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
which I think is my favourite cover

Makes no difference to me, honestly.

4. About Daniel: "Well, he amuses A.J. to an extent. That is to say, Daniel Parish is one of A.J's closest friends" is humorous and sad at the same time. It seems Nic was the sociable one and A.J is unable to make connections with others. Do you agree?

I agree. Nic was the one who would bring him out of his shell. There were opposites.

5. Any theories on who cleaned up his apartment and took Tamerlane?!

I have no clue! I look forward to finding out.

12) Okay, you knew I had to ask--What is you're favorite book? Can you narrow it down to just one? I'm not sure I can.

I don't have a favorite book! My favorites change constantly.

13) So I had to look, and The Late Bloomer by Leon Friedman is a fictitious book. So I'm guessing this story of a man who finds love late in life only to lose it must have some significance. Any thoughts as to what? Could it have a tie in to the main character, AJ? Could you see him as a late bloomer? Perhaps not in love but something else?

I think it ties to A.J. I think he is a late bloomer - he was all within himself after his wife died, so it is like he is blooming again. Plus, having Maya and his new relationship with Amelia, I think those are blooming events as well.

14) What did you think of Ameilia and AJ's relationship? Do you think they'd be good for each other? It sounds like they live quite a distance from each other. Do you think they can make it work?

I'm not sure what I think of it yet. They definitely have a lot in common with their love of books and they both seem like they are intelligent people, able to have great conversations. I don't know if that's enough, but it seems to be working for them.

15) Has anyone else tried Turkish Delight? My kids and I did and we didn't think much of it either. What did you think of AJ's assessment that maybe "Edmund didn't need much coaxing to betray his family"? What about Amelia's hope that the Witch's Turkish delight was magically delicious? Are these statements telling of their personalities and outlook on life?

I've never had it. I think their different responses are based on their very different personalities.

16) In what restaurant, based on a novel, would you like to dine? I personally wouldn't mind eating in the dinning hall of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry. lol

Funny! The first place that came to mind for me was The Leaky Cauldron. lol

17) What do you think of AJ's transformation? Did Maya save him as much as he saved her? I like how he gave her the middle name Tamerlane. I think it symbolizes that he sees her as being worth a fortune.

She definitely saved him from himself. He was basically isolating himself and drinking himself to death slowly. I think he had pretty much lost his will to really live. She gave him back his purpose and helped him to open his heart again and start reconnecting with people. I love that he named her after the most prized possession that he had.

18) What do you think of Lambaise's thought that, "pretty much every bad think in life is a result of bad timing, and every good thing is the result of good timing." Do you agree?

I think a lot of good and bad things are based on timing. Possible most of it, the more I think about it, but all is a big stretch. Timing is important, but people's decisions, regardless of timing, are also important.

17) I love the interaction with Maya. She does seem smarter than her age, doesn't she? I've met kids like that, my daughter being one, and it makes me smile.

I am bothered by a lot of interactions with Maya. I've met many smart children, but she seems overly smart at times. It bothered me in the beginning, when she was way too smart, but still in diapers and using a bottle.... didn't seem realistic to me. Now that she's getting a little older, it doesn't bother me as much. It seems to have leveled out a bit to where she's just really intelligent.

18) I like that this chapter is started and ended with the book, A Good Man is Hard to Find by Flannery O'Connor. I feel like the author's trying to point out that AJ is a good man, if anyone doubted it at this point. Thoughts?

I think A.J. is a good man. He was just grieving and holed up in himself. He didn't really consider other people's feelings in the beginning, but that is changing as he is growing with the story.

Sidenote: I think I know who took the book. Why they did? I have no clue. Let me just say, the "dream" he had of his wife the night the book was stolen is what leans me in a certain direction.

I have an idea about what happened to the book too. I'm not confident in my thoughts about that though. The interaction with his wife is what leans me in my direction as well.

6. I found it interesting to see A.J.'s interactions with his customers, especially Mrs. Cumberbatch, who did didn't like The Book Thief. What is your impression of him so far?

I like that he didn't question her return and just did it. I knew instantly what book she was talking about, because I didn't read the book for the same reason she didn't like it. LOL

7. Wow. I did not expect what happened with Maya. Why do you think someone would leave their child with A.J.? Do you think this is connected to the theft at all?

Very strange. I thought maybe the mom had come, cleaned the apartment and stolen the book and then later left the daughter. But I don't have a logical, coherent reason for thinking so.

8. What do you think of A.J. deciding to keep Maya? Would you have done the same?

I don't know what I would have done.

9. Any thoughts on who Maya's father could be? And why do you think Maya's mother brought her out to the island?

I didn't even think of the father! I just assumed he would play no part in the story. I don't know why the mom brought the daughter to the island.

10. Poor Ismay! Not only did she lose her child but Daniel took off almost immediately. What do you think she means when she says that she is bad? Do you think she has feelings for A.J., or was she just looking for comfort?

I think it's self-pity, bad self esteem. I think she was looking for comfort is all.

11. How did you like all of the references to books in these chapters? Have you read any of them?

I love book references. A couple are in my TBR list. I haven't read CASE HISTORIES or THE BOOK THIEF. I've read TIME TRAVELER'S WIFE - which was pretty good. I've also read BEL CANTO which was beautifully written, but sad.

12. My all time favorite is "To Kill A Mockingbird" by Harper Lee. My second is "A Prayer for Owen Meany" by John Irving. After that there are a lot of third places including the Harry Potter series.

13. I think the significance is that it's better to have loved and lost than to not love at all. It's a cliche, but I believe the author tried to illustrate this. Or maybe the significance is that it's never too late to find love. I think there is a tie-in to AJ as he found Maya after he lost Nic, and his life is all the richer for it.

14. I like the idea of Amelia and AJ, and I think they can definitely make it work. I'm in a long distance marriage, and it's hard but very do-able. I think it's because we're a bit older and wiser about the whole relationship thing.

15. I don't think I've ever had Turkish Delight. If I did, it wasn't memorable. AJ is a bit negative, and Amelia's more positive. The statements are indicative of their personalities.

16. "Sweet Life in Paris" comes to mind only because I read the book, and it has a lot of desserts in it. I love dessert; it might be the best part of the day, actually.

17. I love AJ's transformation because it really shows the value one person (Maya) can have on another person.


18. I think he's got that partially right. Every bad thing comes from bad timing or from bad intentions (at least I hope).

19. I adore Maya, and I have from the first moment she's brought into the story.

20. I agree.

Linda wrote: "17. I love AJ's transformation because it really shows the value one person (Maya) can have on another person."

Absolutely agree! Nicely worded.

Thank you, Kristie. I'm sure you have examples from your own life. I know I do.

July 13th, Questions and Comments for Pages 39-82..."The Luck of Roaring Camp" & "What Feels Like the World"

6. I found it interesting to see A.J.'s interactions with his customers, especially Mrs. Cumberbatch, who did didn't like The Book Thief. What is your impression of him so far?
I love those interactions! They're brilliant! I wish there was a bookstore nearby with an owner like Fikry!

7. Wow. I did not expect what happened with Maya. Why do you think someone would leave their child with A.J.? Do you think this is connected to the theft at all?
See, I can't justify leaving a child all alone in a bookstore, at least without meeting or spying on the owner(s) first. What if he was a pedophile, or an alcoholic? I understand Maya's mother was desperate and really depressed, but still...
As for the theft, at the time I read this, I figured it was connected in some way (how could it have been a coincidence?), but I didn't think Maya's mother was the thief, that the theft was connected in a different way that I couldn't figure out at the time.

8. What do you think of A.J. deciding to keep Maya? Would you have done the same?
Absolutely! I wouldn't have hesitated so long either. For now, I don't have any children (we're not ready yet), but I do really want one eventually, so I would take her in without pause.
I like that he decided to keep Maya. I think that he was feeling really lonely and just needed someone to love, even if he didn't think so at the time.

9. Any thoughts on who Maya's father could be? And why do you think Maya's mother brought her out to the island?
At the time, I couldn't figure out the answer to either question. Now that I've finished the story, it makes perfect sense, but I won't drop any more hints. :)

10. Poor Ismay! Not only did she lose her child but Daniel took off almost immediately. What do you think she means when she says that she is bad? Do you think she has feelings for A.J., or was she just looking for comfort?
When I read this, I thought that when she said she is bad, it was because she was had multiple miscarriages and therefore was physically bad. I also thought she had feelings for A.J.

11. How did you like all of the references to books in these chapters? Have you read any of them?
I liked them! Quite a few are on my TBR.

12) Okay, you knew I had to ask--What is you're favorite book? Can you narrow it down to just one? I'm not sure I can.

I always say PRIDE AND PREJUDICE. But I think only because it was my first love. I've fallen in love with many different books since then. Hard to narrow it down.

13) So I had to look, and The Late Bloomer by Leon Friedman is a fictitious book. So I'm guessing this story of a man who finds love late in life only to lose it must have some significance. Any thoughts as to what? Could it have a tie in to the main character, AJ? Could you see him as a late bloomer? Perhaps not in love but something else?

I'm sure it references his learning to connect with others after his wife's death. Amy, Maya...

14) What did you think of Ameilia and AJ's relationship? Do you think they'd be good for each other? It sounds like they live quite a distance from each other. Do you think they can make it work?

Their banter is well done. That kind of chemistry is rare. I think they are great for each other. I do think one will more than likely have to move closer eventually.

15) Has anyone else tried Turkish Delight? My kids and I did and we didn't think much of it either. What did you think of AJ's assessment that maybe "Edmund didn't need much coaxing to betray his family"? What about Amelia's hope that the Witch's Turkish delight was magically delicious? Are these statements telling of their personalities and outlook on life?

I haven't tried it. Reflective of their personalities? I'm not sure.

16) In what restaurant, based on a novel, would you like to dine? I personally wouldn't mind eating in the dinning hall of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry. lol

I did read a book recently about a clambake and have since been obsessed with eating at one.

17) What do you think of AJ's transformation? Did Maya save him as much as he saved her? I like how he gave her the middle name Tamerlane. I think it symbolizes that he sees her as being worth a fortune.

I agree. I think the name does reflect how precious she is to him. I liked his transformation.

18) What do you think of Lambaise's thought that, "pretty much every bad think in life is a result of bad timing, and every good thing is the result of good timing." Do you agree?

I think we also don't recognize good and bad decisions as such due to our mindset at the time. Things that are good for us we don't see as being good for us because we are focused on other things and the like. Only later do we realize a missed opportunity.

17) I love the interaction with Maya. She does seem smarter than her age, doesn't she? I've met kids like that, my daughter being one, and it makes me smile.

I thought the same thing, she's smarter than her age.

18) I like that this chapter is started and ended with the book, A Good Man is Hard to Find by Flannery O'Connor. I feel like the author's trying to point out that AJ is a good man, if anyone doubted it at this point. Thoughts?

It was an appropriate title.

Sidenote: I think I know who took the book. Why they did? I have no clue. Let me just say, the "dream" he had of his wife the night the book was stolen is what leans me in a certain direction.

Questions and Comments for July 14th; A Good Man is Hard to Find

12) Okay, you knew I had to ask--What is you're favorite book? Can you narrow it down to just one? I'm not sure I can.
Nope. Definitely can't narrow it down. Maybe a top 5? .... in each genre?

13) So I had to look, and The Late Bloomer by Leon Friedman is a fictitious book. So I'm guessing this story of a man who finds love late in life only to lose it must have some significance. Any thoughts as to what? Could it have a tie in to the main character, AJ? Could you see him as a late bloomer? Perhaps not in love but something else?
Hmm, I haven't thought of that. That does make sense. No wonder he loved the story so much.

14) What did you think of Ameilia and AJ's relationship? Do you think they'd be good for each other? It sounds like they live quite a distance from each other. Do you think they can make it work?
Oh yeah. When you really care for someone, you can make anything work.

15) Has anyone else tried Turkish Delight? My kids and I did and we didn't think much of it either. What did you think of AJ's assessment that maybe "Edmund didn't need much coaxing to betray his family"? What about Amelia's hope that the Witch's Turkish delight was magically delicious? Are these statements telling of their personalities and outlook on life?
I tried it, and I love it, but you can't just buy a cheap bag of it. You have to get a better quality brand, otherwise it's just artificial gummy candy drowning in powdered sugar.
Opinions definitely define a person's character. A.J. is rather cynical, while Amelia is an optimist.

16) In what restaurant, based on a novel, would you like to dine? I personally wouldn't mind eating in the dinning hall of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry. lol
Ha! Me too! I'd want to try treacle tart, Harry's favorite. There's also this bar/pub in Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore that I would love to visit, where they have books at the tables so you can read while you drink alcoholic beverages. How cool would that be?!


17) What do you think of AJ's transformation? Did Maya save him as much as he saved her? I like how he gave her the middle name Tamerlane. I think it symbolizes that he sees her as being worth a fortune.
I liked reading about A.J.'s transformation. Love always changes a person, most of the time in a good way. It's why I read these kinds of stories.


18) What do you think of Lambaise's thought that, "pretty much every bad think in life is a result of bad timing, and every good thing is the result of good timing." Do you agree?
Yep. Can't say anymore than that.


17) I love the interaction with Maya. She does seem smarter than her age, doesn't she? I've met kids like that, my daughter being one, and it makes me smile.
I love reading about little children like. It's so much fun and it makes me chuckle. When I have kids, I
plan on exposing them constantly to books, and I hope that'll make them avid readers and thus a little smarter for their age (probably won't happen, but one can dream right?)

18) I like that this chapter is started and ended with the book, A Good Man is Hard to Find by Flannery O'Connor. I feel like the author's trying to point out that AJ is a good man, if anyone doubted it at this point. Thoughts?
This didn't occur to me, but it makes sense. I unfortunately have no other thoughts.

Sidenote: I think I know who took the book. Why they did? I have no clue. Let me just say, the "dream" he had of his wife the night the book was stolen is what leans me in a certain direction.
who do you think it was?

Another Sidenote: Has anyone ever seen A Simple Twist Of Fate, with Steve Martin? Have you noticed the similarities between this movie and the book? I swear, 50% of the book is almost exactly the same as the movie. It's one of the reasons, I didn't rate this story as highly as others did.

6. He is really intelligent, and funny in an intellectual way. However, sales and dealing with people are not his strengths.

7. I thought it was idealistic for someone to leave a child in a bookstore. And unrealistic. But then, the mother was in extreme depression.

8. I think AJ needed that human interaction and unconditional love. He is certainly emotionally unconnected. And he needs caring in his life.

9. None.

10. Daniel is such a jerk. I think Ismay thinks she is not a nice person and her sister was always the nice person.

11. I love the references to books. My friends and family rarely read the same books as me, so I have few people to talk to about them. However, I haven't read many of the books discussed, and if I have it was a looong time ago.

12) I don't have a favorite book. I like too many of them to pick one.

13) I think AJ could definitely be a late bloomer. I love how subtle the writing is. The book can have multiple meanings (and having read the enter book I think it does).

14) Amelia is delightful and so different from AJ. But, they get each other and understand why they each value different things. So, I think they could be a great couple and immediately hoped they would make things work.

15) I've had Turkish Delight and think that during war-time England with food, and especially sugar, rationing that it was probably really special. Of course, surrounded are we are today with wide varieties of candy with higher sugar content than most ever had back 100 years ago, its a different story. And I did like it, but love nougat more.

16) There is a diner in Simon R. Green's Nightside series that would be fascinating. It crosses time, so you can get anything.

17) I agree, AJ was definitely saved by Maya. She loves him, and centers his life. She has brought him into the town in a way even his wife was unable to do.

18) Lambaise is rather philosophical, isn't he? There are times when that thought seems true, but ultimately it depends on one's perspective.

19) Maya is definitely precocious. At times I wonder as her thoughts/dialog really seem far too mature.

20) As I recall, the story "A good man is hard to find" has a really unpleasant ending. And the family wasn't very happy. So, I think the title represents one thing and the story another.

Sidenote: I didn't even think about that!

Lisa, A Simple Twist of Faith, is loosely based on Silas Marner by George Eliot.

July 13th, Questions and Comments for Pages 39-82..."The Luck of Roaring Camp" & "What Feels Like the World"

6. I found it interesting to see A.J.'s interactions with his customers, especially Mrs. Cumberbatch, who did didn't like The Book Thief. What is your impression of him so far?
I thought it was rather rude to return a book you had read fully. He seems like he's nicer than he used to seem. I think Maya is helping him come back out of his shell.

7. Wow. I did not expect what happened with Maya. Why do you think someone would leave their child with A.J.? Do you think this is connected to the theft at all?
I can't imagine the mother stole it if she killed herself right after. There must be some reason she chose him though. Maybe the mother wanted her child to be educated and this was the best way she thought she could ensure she got an educated family.

8. What do you think of A.J. deciding to keep Maya? Would you have done the same?
I don't know. It would depend on whether I thought I would be a benefit or a hindrance to the child. That and if I could afford the child. I've thought about doing foster/adoption before but at this point I'd want to wait until our kids are older and we have more resources to ensure it's a good situation for everyone. I feel like you have to treat them like they're your own children and if you're not prepared to do that then it's not fair to them. I do have friends who have adopted so I know a bit of the process.

9. Any thoughts on who Maya's father could be? And why do you think Maya's mother brought her out to the island?
I'm finding it difficult to keep track of the races of people in the book. It seems to surprise me when they're revealed. Maybe Daniel is the father since he's sleeping around and travels a lot.

10. Poor Ismay! Not only did she lose her child but Daniel took off almost immediately. What do you think she means when she says that she is bad? Do you think she has feelings for A.J., or was she just looking for comfort?
I thought it was interesting that they referred to it as a miscarriage at 6 months since by then it's a stillbirth and the rest of the book has been very proper as far as words are concerned. I would have thought that they would keep her longer after a birth at that point. I think she was just looking for comfort. She didn't act like she had feelings for him before. I think she's just lonely and her husband doesn't seem nice anymore.

11. How did you like all of the references to books in these chapters? Have you read any of them?
I've read monster at the end of this book :) and where the wild things are. As far as the adult books I think I've only read the time travelers wife from what they mentioned though the book thief is on my list.
Maya seems to have an interesting developmental pattern at least compared to my kids. I have a 1.5 year old and a 3.5 year old and Maya seems to not be speaking a lot for being 3 but seems fairly far ahead on the reading since she's recognizing words. My 3 year old talks in complete sentences and Maya doesn't seem like she grew much in speech between 2 and 3. I wonder if this is an indicator of her personality (i.e. quiet, book reader person).

12. Jonathan Livingston Seagull

13. I don't really think AJ is a late bloomer,he's just gun shy after losing the love of his life once already.

14. I think they are great together! The distance between Providence and the Cape isn't much, its the ferry to the island that makes it a pain.

15. I have never tried it.

16. From a book - definitely Giovacchini's deli from the Stephanie Plum series. Based on a book - Gone With the Wind.

17. Maya definitely saved him. She made him care about living again.

18. I do agree with Lambaise.

19. I think the interaction between them is great for the story but unrealistic. I do like seeing things from her point of view (the damask wallpaper or her measuring the length of the store).

20. I've read A Good Man is Hard to Find and did not like it. I'm not sure what the author is trying to say with that.

Questions and Comments for July 14th; A Good Man is Hard to Find

12) Okay, you knew I had to ask--What is you're favorite book? Can you narrow it down to just one? I'm not sure I can.
I'm very fond of Magician: Apprentice but that's probably more of a sentimental thing than any real indication of the quality of the book on a grand scale. I think that I'd rather keep reading different books than focus on any one book. There's too many good ones.

13) So I had to look, and The Late Bloomer by Leon Friedman is a fictitious book. So I'm guessing this story of a man who finds love late in life only to lose it must have some significance. Any thoughts as to what? Could it have a tie in to the main character, AJ? Could you see him as a late bloomer? Perhaps not in love but something else?
Though it's strange because Leon didn't find anyone and both Amy and A.J. did before. Maybe they'll end up meeting at the book signing and he'll offer some words of wisdom for getting over Nic, though he seems to have passed that hurdle already.

14) What did you think of Ameilia and AJ's relationship? Do you think they'd be good for each other? It sounds like they live quite a distance from each other. Do you think they can make it work?
It seems like they've already gotten to know each other a lot. I was thinking that Maya would end up writing and Amy would end up being her agent. :)

15) Has anyone else tried Turkish Delight? My kids and I did and we didn't think much of it either. What did you think of AJ's assessment that maybe "Edmund didn't need much coaxing to betray his family"? What about Amelia's hope that the Witch's Turkish delight was magically delicious? Are these statements telling of their personalities and outlook on life?
I did a long time ago. There was a Narnia play that the highschooler's did at church and they bought Turkish Delight in on opening night. Everyone's reactions was about the same. I suspect that to Edmund the Turkish delight was special even though it wouldn't be to us. This was war-torn England that they were living in.

16) In what restaurant, based on a novel, would you like to dine? I personally wouldn't mind eating in the dinning hall of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry. lol
Ewww. But imagine the vomit flavored beans. I can't think of a particular example but I think we should model one after all the books with billionaires who are hot, nice and can cook amazingly well and have a restaurant filled with them.

17) What do you think of AJ's transformation? Did Maya save him as much as he saved her? I like how he gave her the middle name Tamerlane. I think it symbolizes that he sees her as being worth a fortune.
Heh. So on my honeymoon, my husband lost his ring in the ocean. We looked for it for awhile but it was obviously gone. So we were sad and went back up to our hotel room and a little bit later a yellow and red bird showed up on our balcony. We opened the door and tried to feed it crackers and it hopped inside and landed on my husband's finger. It was obviously a pet so we tried to ask the security desk if there was anyone who would have lost it and they said no. In the end we ended up bringing it to a vet in a shoe box, finding out it was a lovebird, getting papers to bring it home, boarding it at a pet boarder since the bird's plane got delayed (side note: United only lets 3 species of birds fly, not other ones) and eventually picking it up a day later at home. We still have her 7 years later. After that long story, the reason I repeated it is that whenever we tell the story everyone always pipes up with "did the ring become the bird?" which makes me laugh because it's so Disney movieesk. So, I'm going to go with the book became Maya :) I think it represents the thing that he's looking to for his future. It used to be the book since he could retire on it but now it's Maya.

18) What do you think of Lambaise's thought that, "pretty much every bad thing in life is a result of bad timing, and every good thing is the result of good timing." Do you agree?
I think that's probably fairly accurate. A lot of life is luck with the person swaying the luck a bit one way or the other based on their choices. Plus, we usually don't know if things are good or bad until awhile after they've happened.

17) I love the interaction with Maya. She does seem smarter than her age, doesn't she? I've met kids like that, my daughter being one, and it makes me smile.
Heh. It makes me laugh a bit since everyone claims their kid is smarter than average. It's like 70% of people think they're better than average drivers. She does make me laugh though. Kids that age are cute because they see things in such an interesting light. Plus they pick up on really random things you say.

18) I like that this chapter is started and ended with the book, A Good Man is Hard to Find by Flannery O'Connor. I feel like the author's trying to point out that AJ is a good man, if anyone doubted it at this point. Thoughts?
I think he's trying to be a good man again. He was just stuck in a rut before.

I wanted to join this group read but didn't have a chance to start in time, so jumping in now and hope to catch up and keep up with everyone.

1.Well who doesn't love a novel about bookshops or books?! (pssst you can use this book for the Books about Books Reading Challenge) Why did you decide to join this read? Have you read any other books by this author?
This is my first time reading a book by Gabrielle Zevin. I wanted to join the read because I liked the premise, reviews were reassuring and the books fits a whole bunch of challenges I'm in!

2. Initial thoughts on the writing style? I love how the chapter title fits the content (Amelia was the lamb to the slaughter going to that bookshop to try for a sale!....Tamerlane being his "diamond" ) and the comments by A.J Fikry at the start of the chapters
I didn't catch the connection between chapter titles and the stories until I read this question. Great observation and neat gimmick!))) I love comments by A.J. Fikry, they are very personal and really bring the character to life.

3. This is one of those books that has a different title in the U.S than it does in other countries ("The Collected Works of A.J Fikry" v "The Storied Life of A.J Fikry"). What do you prefer? Do you have a preference of cover? I have this version
The Collected Works of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
which I think is my favourite cover
I think the title "The Collected Works of A. J. Fikry" is a bit misleading and can't be fully appreciated until one starts reading the book. "The Storied Life of A.J Fikry" made me curious to find out what the book is about.

4. About Daniel: "Well, he amuses A.J. to an extent. That is to say, Daniel Parish is one of A.J's closest friends" is humorous and sad at the same time. It seems Nic was the sociable one and A.J is unable to make connections with others. Do you agree?
I agree, A.J.'s unapologetic disposition makes it difficult for him to make friends. Someone like A.J. is interesting to observe and read about but hard to deal with in person. And that gives some idea about how much he was loved by Nic.

5. Any theories on who cleaned up his apartment and took Tamerlane?!
All I can think about is it's someone who knows their way about the house and might look like A.J.'s late wife, since he mistook the intruder for Nic. So possibly a woman.

I finished it yesterday and I had a problem with rating this book, but not to spoil it to anyone reading it now I put my thoughts under spoiler tag (view spoiler)[ If I look at it just as a story, it is really sweet and uplifting, but somehow I cannot escape the feeling of being manipulated into such reaction, and I don't like it. For some reason, perhaps because it is a book about reading books, and writing a popular story, I am under impression that the author used various tricks to create such "perfect, sellable, popular" book. That is why I rated it four stars. I loved the references to various books and short stories, and I was very proud of myself that I recognized most of them - I'm from Poland and as a student of American studies this year I had a chance to take a course on American literature that broadened my knowledge greatly :), other than that the book resembled , which is not about the books and it set in a different historical period and geographical location, but is very close in atmosphere and structure of the plot to this book. All in all, I had great time reading this story. (hide spoiler)]

July 14

12. No I really can't. I depends on my mood. I only rate books "5 stars" when they really have an impact on me and I re-read them. I think the last one was The Orphan Master's Son. Absolutely faultless book

13. Perhaps. A.J is a bit emotionally shut off

14. I like them :)

15. I found this odd that the book made a big deal about turkish delight. Based on your question, I guess this is something not often found in the States? It is one of my favourite sweets. Easy-as to make too. I liked AJ's comment that Edmund would've betrayed th family anyway. I had never thought of that

16. That would be pretty awesome :)

17. Oh I hadn't thought of the name meaning she is priceless. nice pick up!

Oh I like your sidenote. I forgot about the dream

Kelly, I loved your honeymoon story, but sorry about the ring.

Karen, I also enjoyed The Orphan Master's Son.

Finally starting today and it is due back tomorrow. I will be reading all day. I love all the book referencing - have two Jeffrey Deaver books and Infinite Jest is on my Kindle.

6. He really doesn't have any patience for anyone. He is so rigid in his ideas. I am sort of starting to understand him a bit more now though and I am getting to like him.

7. I suppose leaving Maya could be connected but I don't now how. I was totally surprised said hadn't predicted the storyline going like that at all.

8. I really admire him for wanting to keep her as it is a big thing for him but I can see why he does it. There's no way I could give her up either.

9. The mother and father of Maya are a total mystery to me. I can't wait to find out.

10. I think Ismay likes AJ but just because he is how she wants Daniel to be. He sounds awful.

11. I've read The Book Thief but none of the others. I'm really liking the references.

Well who doesn't love a novel about bookshops or books?! (pssst you can use this book for the Books about Books Reading Challenge) Why did you decide to join this read? Have you read any other books by this author?

I decided on this book because someone on my FaceBook book group read it and recommended it. Then I went to good reads to check it out and it had great reviews and really high ratings.

2. Initial thoughts on the writing style? I love how the chapter title fits the content (Amelia was the lamb to the slaughter going to that bookshop to try for a sale!....Tamerlane being his "diamond" ) and the comments by A.J Fikry at the start of the chapters

Yeah I like that too. I didn't make the connection of the symbolism until now.

3. This is one of those books that has a different title in the U.S than it does in other countries ("The Collected Works of A.J Fikry" v "The Storied Life of A.J Fikry"). What do you prefer? Do you have a preference of cover? I have this version
The Collected Works of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
which I think is my favourite cover

Don't care about the cover. But I really prefer the title The Storied Life...

4. About Daniel: "Well, he amuses A.J. to an extent. That is to say, Daniel Parish is one of A.J's closest friends" is humorous and sad at the same time. It seems Nic was the sociable one and A.J is unable to make connections with others. Do you agree?

5. Any theories on who cleaned up his apartment and took Tamerlane?!

His ghost wife?

Linda wrote: "Kelly, I loved your honeymoon story, but sorry about the ring.

Karen, I also enjoyed The Orphan Master's Son."

Just want to say I was the one who repeatedly nominated The Orphan Master's Son for BOM before it was finally chosen - it was really good.

I found it interesting to see A.J.'s interactions with his customers, especially Mrs. Cumberbatch, who did didn't like The Book Thief. What is your impression of him so far?

Right away when Mrs. Cumberbatch said the narrator was death - I knew the book she was referring. I am loving A.J. And the man he is becoming - now that he has something to live for again, something to care about.

7. Wow. I did not expect what happened with Maya. Why do you think someone would leave their child with A.J.? Do you think this is connected to the theft at all?
Yes, somehow?

8. What do you think of A.J. deciding to keep Maya? Would you have done the same?
Yes, yes, yes.

9. Any thoughts on who Maya's father could be? And why do you think Maya's mother brought her out to the island?
I think her mother knows a man who loves books is a good man. People who read, and read fiction,have a more developed sense of empathy and the world. They have lived many lives through their characters - they know what is is like to be a man, a woman, poor, rich, suffer, be evil, be good etc...

10. Poor Ismay! Not only did she lose her child but Daniel took off almost immediately. What do you think she means when she says that she is bad? Do you think she has feelings for A.J., or was she just looking for comfort?

I was wondering why she thinks she is bad as well. I think she is lonely and she is changing her opinions of A.J., and growing to admire him more.

11. How did you like all of the references to books in these chapters? Have you read any of them?

Loving it. Of course, The Book Thief. I loved all the books for the ladies book club that have wife - I have The Reliable Wife and The Time Traveler's Wife on my bookshelf. Not included on the list - I also have The Zookeeper's Wife, and The Pilot's Wife, and The Tiger's Wife. The Paris Wife is also on my TBR list.

Also have a lot of the JoNesbo books. So much to still read.

July 13th, Questions and Comments for Pages 39-82..."The Luck of Roaring Camp" & "What Feels Like the World"

6. I found it interesting to see A.J.'s interactions with his customers, especially Mrs. Cumberbatch, who did didn't like The Book Thief. What is your impression of him so far?
I really enjoyed reading about A.J. interacting with the customers. He seemed to have held books to far higher esteem than people at the time.

7. Wow. I did not expect what happened with Maya. Why do you think someone would leave their child with A.J.? Do you think this is connected to the theft at all?
I think that both events are connected in the way they seemed to have turned A.J.'s life around. Whether it is a coincidence or not I'm not yet sure. It is hard to imagine what could compel Maya's mother to leave her like that, I'm not ruling out the possibility of foul play.

8. What do you think of A.J. deciding to keep Maya? Would you have done the same?
I so wanted him to keep Maya and was happy he did! I honestly don't know if I would have done the same, the bond would have to be genuine and really strong.

9. Any thoughts on who Maya's father could be? And why do you think Maya's mother brought her out to the island?
I haven't given Maya's father a second thought, but having considered it now that's what comes to mind: (hiding it in case it's right) (view spoiler)[Maya's mother came to the island to confront the father and was rejected or possibly even killed. And Daniel seems to be the kind of person that fits the profile) (hide spoiler)]

10. Poor Ismay! Not only did she lose her child but Daniel took off almost immediately. What do you think she means when she says that she is bad? Do you think she has feelings for A.J., or was she just looking for comfort?
I think she may be feeling guilty about an unresolved matter linked to her sister which is too late to resolve now. Her affectionate actions towards A.J. were quite unexpected and I think had more to do with loneliness and perhaps guilt than real feelings.

11. How did you like all of the references to books in these chapters? Have you read any of them?
I loved all the book references (one to The Fall of the House of Usher made me lough out loud!) and I am grateful to the author for not spoiling the endings for me!
I read Case Histories and Time Traveler's Wife and enjoyed them both and I would like to read most of the other books mentioned.

Comments and Questions for July 15th, "The Celebrated Jumping Frog Of Calaveras County" to "A Conversation with My Father"

19. Are you glad A.J. and Amelia are going to make their relationship work? What would you have done in their position?

20. What did you think of the writer, Lenora Ferris and her actor? Have you ever had a situation where you were disappointed by a favorite author?

21. Now we know why Ismay said that she was bad. Were you shocked that Daniel was probably Maya's father, or did you guess it?

22. I didn't expect the scene with the accident. Do you think that Ismay died along with Daniel?

Comments and Questions for July 15th, "The Celebrated Jumping Frog Of Calaveras County" to "A Conversation with My Father"

19. Are you glad A.J. and Amelia are going to make their relationship work? What would you have done in their position?

Yes I am glad. They are perfect together. I would love a partner to discuss books with and they both are quite witty together - I love it.

20. What did you think of the writer, Lenora Ferris and her actor? Have you ever had a situation where you were disappointed by a favorite author?

She made some good points. How magnificent that someone can write from a different perspective so well, but it is devious to then market as memoir I suppose. But still doesn't change the writing or the story - but it is fiction.

I have to say this was the funniest chapter, I was LMAO. I loved when A.J. was yelling for a lighter and everything that followed - hilarious.
Just want to say very frustrated with GRR Martin. I just can't stand waiting for his next installments to The Song of Ice and Fire series. It is painful. And I pray he doesn't disappoint.

21. Now we know why Ismay said that she was bad. Were you shocked that Daniel was probably Maya's father, or did you guess it?

Someone earlier did guess it and it made sense it could be a possibility.

22. I didn't expect the scene with the accident. Do you think that Ismay died along with Daniel?

Already read ahead - so I won't ruin it. But I was hoping she would take a liking to the chief and have an affair with him or something.

Sarah wrote: "Already read ahead - so I won't ruin it. But I was hoping she would take a liking to the chief and have an affair with him or something. "

I was hoping the same thing, Sarah. I've come to really like Lambiase. And Daniel wasn't exactly good to her.

Questions and Comments for July 14th; A Good Man is Hard to Find

12) Okay, you knew I had to ask--What is you're favorite book? Can you narrow it down to just one? I'm not sure I can. I don't think I could possibly narrow it down. All of them? ;)

13) So I had to look, and The Late Bloomer by Leon Friedman is a fictitious book. So I'm guessing this story of a man who finds love late in life only to lose it must have some significance. Any thoughts as to what? Could it have a tie in to the main character, AJ? Could you see him as a late bloomer? Perhaps not in love but something else? Oh man...I hope that isn't a foreshadowing!

14) What did you think of Ameilia and AJ's relationship? Do you think they'd be good for each other? It sounds like they live quite a distance from each other. Do you think they can make it work? I think they are great for each other and I truly believe that any couple can make situations like that work if they are willing to make some sacrifices.

15) Has anyone else tried Turkish Delight? My kids and I did and we didn't think much of it either. What did you think of AJ's assessment that maybe "Edmund didn't need much coaxing to betray his family"? What about Amelia's hope that the Witch's Turkish delight was magically delicious? Are these statements telling of their personalities and outlook on life?
I actually like Turkish Delight. I have a huge sweet tooth and I am easily swayed to like something if it ties in to my favorite books/movies :).
Ok, about Edmund....(view spoiler)[I agree with A.J. that it didn't take much for him to betray his family, and I've never been his biggest fan, but I think a lot of the fault lies with his family. He is always excluded because the two oldest always acted like they were in a club of two and Lucy tagged along or went off on her own. I always hated the way they treated Edmund (although he could be a brat). Most of the trouble he got into was because he was either trying to force his way into their 'club' or because he was trying to prove that he really was worth something. Unless I am completely remembering things wrong? (hide spoiler)]

16) In what restaurant, based on a novel, would you like to dine? I personally wouldn't mind eating in the dinning hall of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry. lol Well, it's not a restaurant...but I would love to dine with a hobbit!

17) What do you think of AJ's transformation? Did Maya save him as much as he saved her? I like how he gave her the middle name Tamerlane. I think it symbolizes that he sees her as being worth a fortune. I think Maya saved him more than he saved her. He wasn't really living before he took her in. I didn't think about her name that way-good point.

18) What do you think of Lambaise's thought that, "pretty much every bad thing in life is a result of bad timing, and every good thing is the result of good timing." Do you agree?
It sounds deep, but I think that is a very general statement to make. There's nothing in life but timing, if you really think about it.

17) I love the interaction with Maya. She does seem smarter than her age, doesn't she? I've met kids like that, my daughter being one, and it makes me smile.
I think she is sweet and exactly what A.J. needed. He values intelligence and she is the perfect daughter to help him bridge the gap between being the bookseller and the dad.

18) I like that this chapter is started and ended with the book, A Good Man is Hard to Find by Flannery O'Connor. I feel like the author's trying to point out that AJ is a good man, if anyone doubted it at this point. Thoughts?
I agree. I like that the phrase keeps popping up to keep Amelia heading in his direction :).

Comments and Questions for July 15th, "The Celebrated Jumping Frog Of Calaveras County" to "A Conversation with My Father"

19. Are you glad A.J. and Amelia are going to make their relationship work? What would you have done in their position?
I would have tried. They obviously weren't having much luck finding anyone before and they both get along well and like each other.

20. What did you think of the writer, Lenora Ferris and her actor? Have you ever had a situation where you were disappointed by a favorite author?
I tend not to look up too much info on the authors I read. There does seem to be quite a few authors that portray themselves as the opposite gender though as pseudonyms. I'm surprised that the publisher didn't find out it wasn't a memoir though.

21. Now we know why Ismay said that she was bad. Were you shocked that Daniel was probably Maya's father, or did you guess it?
I guessed it. It seemed fairly obvious since there weren't many people and they made a big deal about Daniel sleeping around.

22. I didn't expect the scene with the accident. Do you think that Ismay died along with Daniel?
Hrm. I'm guessing she's at least fairly hurt but Daniel's side probably cushioned it if he got hit directly. I was surprised that after it didn't seem to mention anything about it. Though I suppose since Maya didn't know about Daniel being her father that implies Ismay probably didn't make it.

Just finished. I have to say "What a great book." You must also read The Acknowledgments at the end. It is kind of a marriage for me between The Rosie Project and The Light Between Oceans plus something of its own. I defenitely need to get rid of the dush bag I am with and get me a book lover. Maybe I can meet him in a bookstore?

Questions and Comments for July 14th; A Good Man is Hard to Find

12) Okay, you knew I had to ask--What is you're favorite book? Can you narrow it down to just one? I'm not sure I can.
I don't have one! There are plenty books that I love, I just can't single out that special one. I remember The Little Prince had quite an impact on me when I was little.

13) So I had to look, and The Late Bloomer by Leon Friedman is a fictitious book. So I'm guessing this story of a man who finds love late in life only to lose it must have some significance. Any thoughts as to what? Could it have a tie in to the main character, AJ? Could you see him as a late bloomer? Perhaps not in love but something else?
Perhaps bringing the book up again is indicative of the change that has happened to A.J. and all the new things he opened up to? Not sure.

14) What did you think of Ameilia and AJ's relationship? Do you think they'd be good for each other? It sounds like they live quite a distance from each other. Do you think they can make it work?
I am rooting for them to make it work and I think they have a good chance.

15) Has anyone else tried Turkish Delight? My kids and I did and we didn't think much of it either. What did you think of AJ's assessment that maybe "Edmund didn't need much coaxing to betray his family"? What about Amelia's hope that the Witch's Turkish delight was magically delicious? Are these statements telling of their personalities and outlook on life?
I tried it and I like it, but luckily I didn't have any literature influenced anticipations the first time I had it :)

16) In what restaurant, based on a novel, would you like to dine? I personally wouldn't mind eating in the dinning hall of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry. lol
Not a restaurant, but I remember reading Like Water for Chocolate was hard to endure without running to the fridge every chapter, and to make it even more unbearable there were recipes!

17) What do you think of AJ's transformation? Did Maya save him as much as he saved her? I like how he gave her the middle name Tamerlane. I think it symbolizes that he sees her as being worth a fortune.
Without a doubt they saved each other.

18) What do you think of Lambaise's thought that, "pretty much every bad thing in life is a result of bad timing, and every good thing is the result of good timing." Do you agree?
I believe timing plays an important part in an outcome, but I don't agree that it's the only factor that matters.

17) I love the interaction with Maya. She does seem smarter than her age, doesn't she? I've met kids like that, my daughter being one, and it makes me smile.
I adore Maya even if I have to suspend my disbelief at her maturity at times.

18) I like that this chapter is started and ended with the book, A Good Man is Hard to Find by Flannery O'Connor. I feel like the author's trying to point out that AJ is a good man, if anyone doubted it at this point. Thoughts?
I agree, and also I think the chapter name refers to the choice Amelia had to make when she called off her engagement.

I recently finished and I have to say I would want to eat at The Whistle Stop Cafe.

And my favorite book of all time is tied between and

Comments and Questions for July 15th, "The Celebrated Jumping Frog Of Calaveras County" to "A Conversation with My Father"

19. Are you glad A.J. and Amelia are going to make their relationship work? What would you have done in their position?

I am glad they did! I wish my husband would read, at least more than the Sunday funnies. And the only movies he watches are slasher/paranormal type. It leaves us very little to talk about at times.

20. What did you think of the writer, Lenora Ferris and her actor? Have you ever had a situation where you were disappointed by a favorite author?

I was surprised the publisher was unaware but it wouldn't bather me. I read for the entertainment/escape, not because something is fact or fiction. I haven't been disappointed by an author but I have found that I've outgrown some that were once favorites.

21. Now we know why Ismay said that she was bad. Were you shocked that Daniel was probably Maya's father, or did you guess it?

It never occurred to me that Daniel may be the father. I am horrible at picking up clues, which is why I never read mysteries. LOL

22. I didn't expect the scene with the accident. Do you think that Ismay died along with Daniel?

I was shocked!! I never saw that coming. I'm with Sarah, I think Lambiase is sweet on her, the way he followed her to the beach and gave her his coat to keep her warm.

Comments and Questions for July 15th, "The Celebrated Jumping Frog Of Calaveras County" to "A Conversation with My Father"

19. Are you glad A.J. and Amelia are going to make their relationship work? What would you have done in their position?
Of course! It's always nice to read a love story that works without complications. It's a normal, sweet love story, no extreme weirdness necessary.

20. What did you think of the writer, Lenora Ferris and her actor? Have you ever had a situation where you were disappointed by a favorite author?
I think the book reading session was my favorite part of the whole story. I figured out early on that the guy was a paid actor, so just reading the scene play out was freakin' hilarious! My original thought though, was that the original author was actually dead, and the publisher chose to hide that fact and send them a paid actor. I was a little surprised that the author was actually a woman. I think it's bothersome that she sold the book as a "memoir". It's a lie, and that ruins the book's prestige.


21. Now we know why Ismay said that she was bad. Were you shocked that Daniel was probably Maya's father, or did you guess it?
At the time I didn't guess it, but I wasn't trying either; I just let the story play out. But it makes total sense in retrospect.

22. I didn't expect the scene with the accident. Do you think that Ismay died along with Daniel?
When I read it, I figured Daniel was going to live, but be crippled, and that Ismay was going to be dead instead. One of those "I'll regret that night for the rest of my life" kind of thing.

19. Are you glad A.J. and Amelia are going to make their relationship work? What would you have done in their position?

Yes. I think they are both adults who have enough experience to know what is most important to each of them. Everything else is negotiable.

20. What did you think of the writer, Lenora Ferris and her actor? Have you ever had a situation where you were disappointed by a favorite author?

I liked the writer, but was disappointed in the subterfuge. And the actor was just awful. As for disappointment in authors, I often try not to learn too much about the author so that my like/dislike of the author's life/choices/politics/etc. don't affect my enjoyment of a book.

While she is not one of my favorites, is typical of the difficulties of knowing a lot about an author. Personally, I find her behavior very disturbing, and am glad I wasn't attached to her books. Now I'm only torn about books for which she was co-author.

21. Now we know why Ismay said that she was bad. Were you shocked that Daniel was probably Maya's father, or did you guess it?

No, I didn't guess it. But, I didn't think too hard beyond what the narrative said. The author did give some very subtle clues, though.

22. I didn't expect the scene with the accident. Do you think that Ismay died along with Daniel?

I didn't expect it either. I held my breath to find out what happened.

Comments and Questions
July 16
"A perfect day for Bananafish" - end

23. So we got to read Maya's story after all. What did you think? Do you prefer her version of the last day of her mother's life or Ismay's?

24. I'm glad Ismay survived and that she now seems happy with Lambiase. Were you surprised when he found the backpack? Or that he didn't ask her about it? Do you agree with her never being honest about this?

25. I find it interesting that throughout this book there is a bit of discussion about the covers of books and how they can attract or detract. Is that why this book has such different covers (and two different titles?) I wonder...

26. So I must admit I am a kindle convert. I still read paperbacks, and will buy hardbacks of books I love, but nothing quite beats an ebook for price and convenience. How about you? Fikry's rant reminded me of some authors who have refused to go digital and then end up changing their minds (including , most recently, ). What are your thoughts on digital books?

27. The title of my version of the book is explained as Fikry wants to tell Maya "In the end, we are collected works". Now I think I do prefer this as a title for the book!

28. How did you feel at the end? I admit I felt a little dissatisfied, which I know is something Fikry says is quite forgive-able in the book and therefore possibly intentional. I think just because the time period is so quick that I didn't feel like I knew the characters enough by the end, and I would have loved to. In saying that, I did really enjoy this book though and would recommend it to others.

OMG...probably about 80% of the way into the book...the part with the ring...lol (view spoiler)[ I literally laughed out loud when he threw the ring at her!! Then, he starts listing all of his negative qualities. I was dying. (hide spoiler)] So funny!

I have to say that this book started out ok for me, but has gotten better and better. I wasn't sure that I was going to like A.J. as a character in the beginning, but he has grown on me.

Comments and Questions
July 16
"A perfect day for Bananafish" - end

23. So we got to read Maya's story after all. What did you think? Do you prefer her version of the last day of her mother's life or Ismay's?
I think I prefer Ismay's. The Myra versus Mary thing was a bit confusing. I wasn't sure if she was going for names similar to hers or if her mom had an anagram of her name or what.

24. I'm glad Ismay survived and that she now seems happy with Lambiase. Were you surprised when he found the backpack? Or that he didn't ask her about it? Do you agree with her never being honest about this?
I think it would have just caused problems at this point. I was ok with her not being honest. I was surprised that he found it but not that he didn't ask. Most people don't like upsetting situations that are currently going well for them.

25. I find it interesting that throughout this book there is a bit of discussion about the covers of books and how they can attract or detract. Is that why this book has such different covers (and two different titles?) I wonder...
I'm not sure how much the author has to do with the picking of the covers. Most covers I see tend to have people who have the wrong hair/eye color.

26. So I must admit I am a kindle convert. I still read paperbacks, and will buy hardbacks of books I love, but nothing quite beats an ebook for price and convenience. How about you? Fikry's rant reminded me of some authors who have refused to go digital and then end up changing their minds (including , most recently, Harper Lee). What are your thoughts on digital books?
I love my kindle now. I tried one of the earlier ones and didn't like it but the paperwhite is awesome. I love that I can have it in my purse all the time and not worry about carrying around ginormous books. I tend to rent kindle first, then rent library book then buy kindle and as a last resort I'll buy a physical book. We have too many books at our house already and they take up so much room. I can't afford nor store 400 books a year.

27. The title of my version of the book is explained as Fikry wants to tell Maya "In the end, we are collected works". Now I think I do prefer this as a title for the book!
I'm not sure the titles help much with explaining what the book is about. It feels like a bookclub title to me.

28. How did you feel at the end? I admit I felt a little dissatisfied, which I know is something Fikry says is quite forgive-able in the book and therefore possibly intentional. I think just because the time period is so quick that I didn't feel like I knew the characters enough by the end, and I would have loved to. In saying that, I did really enjoy this book though and would recommend it to others.
I felt it was a bit hard to follow the passage of time. Sometimes months passed in a sentence. Plus Maya tended to randomly gain a few years without really any indication. She was 3 and then suddenly 14 was the next age they mentioned unless I missed one. I did rate it a 4 though.

Sarah, I loved your answer to #9. I had forgotten all of the “Wife�� books, but I did read The Tiger’s Wife and The Paris Wife. I liked both of them. (Also, my first date with husband #2 ended in a bookstore; it was amazing. Husband #1 was great, but we had zero in common, including the books we read. With husband #2, we can talk books, TV shows, movies, and it’s so wonderful. So yes, find yourself a book lover!)

19. Yes, I’m very glad they’re going to make it work. I would have done the same.

20. I’m with Lara on this one.

21. I had no idea that Daniel was Maya’s father.

22. I didn’t expect the scene with the accident either, and I believed that Ismay died with Daniel.

23. I prefer Maya’s story; it’s not as harsh as Ismay’s.

24. I was very surprised that Lambiase didn’t ask Ismay about the backpack.

25. I do believe titles and book covers make a difference, maybe a small one, in sales, and different titles and covers may work differently in different countries.

26. I’m a Kindle convert, through and through. The only exception may be a crafts book, but even then I find myself buying the Kindle versions. I hoard books in a big way, and at least digitally, I can hide that much better than the boxes of books stacked in my son’s bedroom and in my downstairs closet.

27. I’m torn between the titles.

28. I was fine with the end, but I’m hoping for a book #2.

I loved the beginning, middle, and end of the book.

Linda wrote: "Sarah, I loved your answer to #9. I had forgotten all of the “Wife�� books, but I did read The Tiger’s Wife and The Paris Wife. I liked both of them. (Also, my first date with husband #2 ended in..."

I am so glad you saw that. Yes, I will keep my fingers crossed. Hopefully someday.

Comments and Questions for July 15th, "The Celebrated Jumping Frog Of Calaveras County" to "A Conversation with My Father"

19. Are you glad A.J. and Amelia are going to make their relationship work? What would you have done in their position?
Very glad! I would have tried to make it work too I think.

20. What did you think of the writer, Lenora Ferris and her actor? Have you ever had a situation where you were disappointed by a favorite author?
Despite being dead set against passing fiction off as non fiction, I found myself feeling sympathetic to the author and was glad she had a chance to read out of her book at the wedding. Jewish Santa with drinking problem was amusing to read about, but I would not come near someone like that in real life if I had a choice!

21. Now we know why Ismay said that she was bad. Were you shocked that Daniel was probably Maya's father, or did you guess it?
Wasn't shocked, I suspected Daniel was the father. I'm glad I was wrong about him having anything to do with Marian's death.

22. I didn't expect the scene with the accident. Do you think that Ismay died along with Daniel?
I hope not, I'd like to know how Ismay really feels now that Daniel is truly gone.

Sarah wrote: "I loved the beginning, middle, and end of the book."

:)
i agree about your #9 too. Reading books is so important

Kristie wrote: "OMG...probably about 80% of the way into the book...the part with the ring...lol [spoilers removed] So funny!...."

I completely cracked up when I got to that part!!

I'm finally sneaking a few minutes to add my answers to this discussion.

Comments and Questions - July 12
Chapters: "Lamb to the Slaughter" and "The Diamond as Big as the RItz"

1.Well who doesn't love a novel about bookshops or books?! (pssst you can use this book for the Books about Books Reading Challenge) Why did you decide to join this read? Have you read any other books by this author?
I had just started the book and decided to wait to do this with the group because it's always nice to see what others are thinking. I read in 2009 and really like the author's style.

2. Initial thoughts on the writing style? I love how the chapter title fits the content (Amelia was the lamb to the slaughter going to that bookshop to try for a sale!....Tamerlane being his "diamond" ) and the comments by A.J Fikry at the start of the chapters
I had originally skipped over the title and the comments but then realized they gave a sneak preview of what was to come. Now I look forward to reading them.

3. This is one of those books that has a different title in the U.S than it does in other countries ("The Collected Works of A.J Fikry" v "The Storied Life of A.J Fikry"). What do you prefer? Do you have a preference of cover? I have this version
The Collected Works of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
which I think is my favourite cover
I prefer the storied life only because it seems like more stories and tales than a life story.

4. About Daniel: "Well, he amuses A.J. to an extent. That is to say, Daniel Parish is one of A.J's closest friends" is humorous and sad at the same time. It seems Nic was the sociable one and A.J is unable to make connections with others. Do you agree?
I actually like (and probably would have read the book sooner!) It does appear that Nic was the life-force and front woman while A.J. preferred to be in the wings, watching.

5. Any theories on who cleaned up his apartment and took Tamerlane?!
I have no idea but I am curious to find out!

Comments and Questions
July 16
"A perfect day for Bananafish" - end

23. So we got to read Maya's story after all. What did you think? Do you prefer her version of the last day of her mother's life or Ismay's?
I think Maya's was nicer. Either way it was a sad story.

24. I'm glad Ismay survived and that she now seems happy with Lambiase. Were you surprised when he found the backpack? Or that he didn't ask her about it? Do you agree with her never being honest about this?
I was a little surprised, but not for long; in retrospect it was pretty obvious. I liked that he chose not to throw a fit and confront her about it, he instead chose to mull it over and then confront her later when it was necessary. From her point of view, it seemed prudent, especially considering the consequences of her encounter with Maya's mother. And that decision gave A.J. a daughter, something that turned out to benefit everyone.

25. I find it interesting that throughout this book there is a bit of discussion about the covers of books and how they can attract or detract. Is that why this book has such different covers (and two different titles?) I wonder...
Good thought! I suppose it is why there are different covers and two different titles, so people can choose what attracts them more.

26. So I must admit I am a kindle convert. I still read paperbacks, and will buy hardbacks of books I love, but nothing quite beats an ebook for price and convenience. How about you? Fikry's rant reminded me of some authors who have refused to go digital and then end up changing their minds (including , most recently, Harper Lee). What are your thoughts on digital books?
I was against it at first. I love the feel of books, particularly hardcovers, and I thought ebooks took away from the wonderful experience of reading. But then I tried an ebook on my husband's ipad and found that there were benefits to reading an ebook, such as highlighting, and quick definition look-ups, and the ability to write notes as you read. Now I have my very own Kindle and I use to borrow ebooks from the library and read books while traveling or when the book I'm reading is too large to carry comfortably. Technology can be very useful sometimes, but I still prefer a regular book.

27. The title of my version of the book is explained as Fikry wants to tell Maya "In the end, we are collected works". Now I think I do prefer this as a title for the book!
I still personally prefer "A Storied Life". A.J. is not a famous person, so saying your life is a collected work, while it does give your life a sense of being a treasure, it still doesn't seem to fit this story. A.J. was living an uninteresting, depressing life before Maya came along, and then it turned into a really nice story. His life has been "storied". It fits this book better, I think.

28. How did you feel at the end? I admit I felt a little dissatisfied, which I know is something Fikry says is quite forgive-able in the book and therefore possibly intentional. I think just because the time period is so quick that I didn't feel like I knew the characters enough by the end, and I would have loved to. In saying that, I did really enjoy this book though and would recommend it to others.
I thought the ending happened a little too quickly. Overall the book was nice and sweet, but it wasn't amazing, in my opinion. It's the kind of story that's been told before, and I felt it wasn't as amazing as everyone else thought. However, I would still recommend this story to just about anyone.