Raising up a Family to the Lord by Gene R. Cook copyright 1993
A wonderful friend gave me the audiobook of this right after my first baby was born. Todd and I loved it so much we bought the book that has more detail and examples. Chapter titles include, "Teaching Your Family by the Spirit", "Teaching Your Family to Pray," "Teaching Your Family Repentance and Discipline," Teaching Your Family about Work and Finances," and others. The practical advice and encouragement is so inspiring. Whether your children are really small, teenagers or young adults, there is beneficial counsel in this book.
Bro. Cook uses examples from his own family life, as well as examples from those he has come in contact through the years. Since he has 9 children, I'd like to believe that he's a pretty good judge of what family life is really like and has learned from experience what will bring a family to the Lord. I continually go back to this book as a reference and reminder when I'm facing a difficult parenting issue or just for encouragement to keep trying. It is not a one-size-fits-all approach to parenting. Bro. Cook's counsel emphasizes the uniqueness of each individual, but shows that by following specific principles our families will be blessed.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Fablehaven
Fablehaven by Brandon Mull copyright 2006
After finishing the Harry Potter series, I was in need of a fantasy fix. Fablehaven fit the bill as an easy to read, but fascinating story of magic, danger, and morality.
(Blurb from back cover)
"For centuries mystical creatures of all description were gathered into a hidden refuge called Fablehaven to prevent their extinction. The sanctuary survives today as one of the last strongholds of true magic. Enchanting? Absolutely. Exciting? You bet. Safe? Well, actually, quite the opposite. . .
Kendra and her brother, Seth, have no idea that their grandfather is the current caretaker of Fablehaven. Inside the gated woods, ancient laws keep relative order among greedy trolls, mischievous satyrs, plotting witches, spiteful imps, and jealous fairies. However, when the rules get broken-- Seth is a bit too curious and reckless for his own good -- powerful forces of evil are unleashed, and Kendra and her brother face the greatest challenge of their lives. To save their family, Fablehaven, and perhaps even the world, Kendra and Seth must find the courage to do what they fear most."
Although it starts a bit more slowly than some, the author does a great job of setting up needful background information that comes in handy when the going gets truly exciting. A great family read as it really brings out some important lessons about obedience and the protective influence it can be. This is the first book in a series that so far contains three books. I believe there will be more. I've read book 2 and enjoyed it more than the first. I haven't read book 3. . . yet.
After finishing the Harry Potter series, I was in need of a fantasy fix. Fablehaven fit the bill as an easy to read, but fascinating story of magic, danger, and morality.
(Blurb from back cover)
"For centuries mystical creatures of all description were gathered into a hidden refuge called Fablehaven to prevent their extinction. The sanctuary survives today as one of the last strongholds of true magic. Enchanting? Absolutely. Exciting? You bet. Safe? Well, actually, quite the opposite. . .
Kendra and her brother, Seth, have no idea that their grandfather is the current caretaker of Fablehaven. Inside the gated woods, ancient laws keep relative order among greedy trolls, mischievous satyrs, plotting witches, spiteful imps, and jealous fairies. However, when the rules get broken-- Seth is a bit too curious and reckless for his own good -- powerful forces of evil are unleashed, and Kendra and her brother face the greatest challenge of their lives. To save their family, Fablehaven, and perhaps even the world, Kendra and Seth must find the courage to do what they fear most."
Although it starts a bit more slowly than some, the author does a great job of setting up needful background information that comes in handy when the going gets truly exciting. A great family read as it really brings out some important lessons about obedience and the protective influence it can be. This is the first book in a series that so far contains three books. I believe there will be more. I've read book 2 and enjoyed it more than the first. I haven't read book 3. . . yet.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Persuasion
Persuasion by Jane Austen copyright 1818 (published posthumously)
Let's get one thing straight at the get-go-- I love Jane Austen's novels. (The exception being Mansfield Park which I think has some of the lamest main characters ever!) Now, I'm sure that I'll do a post on each of her novels eventually, but since Persuasion is my favorite, it gets first billing.
Persuasion was written in a race against failing health in 1815-16. Although Ms. Austen's wit and social satire is as sparkling as ever, her hero and heroine have an extra depth when compared to her other novels. This may be due to their both being older than her previous subjects. Anne Elliot and Capt. Fredrick Wentworth are 27 and 31 at the outset of the book. The beginnings of their connection happens much earlier in their lives (19 and 23), but are separated by the conventions of the day-- no money, his lack of family connections, etc. (As a modern American, sometimes these upper-class, British social rules can seem so annoying.) They break off the engagement, but Anne pines away her days knowing that her one true love has passed her by. Don't think she is an insipid character. She isn't. Anne is well-educated, extremely observant and naturally a peacemaker. Her father and sister are selfish idiots only concerned with appearance- physical and social. They really underestimate and under esteem Anne. In the first chapter, one is struck by Anne's "aloneness." She does have a good friend in a neighbor, Lady Russell, but this friend fulfills a mothering role as Anne's mother died many years previous. One can well understand her loss of losing Capt. Wentworth as not only a husband, but a true friend.
To make a long, twisted story short. . . As fate would have it, Anne and Wentworth are thrown together again, but he has vowed to love anyone, but her. Months pass with them continually in the same social circle; he pursuing (well, sort of) other women; she feeling the loss and struggling to not be overcome by her feelings. As Austen would have it, there must be a time when Wentworth realizes he still loves Anne, but because of his foolish behavior, he may not be able to get her back. (Did you know that Austen's plot line in Pride and Prejudice of Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship was the invention of this particular invention in popular fiction? Notice it in almost every romantic movie or book you read. Again, proof that Austen is amazing.)
The story continues through twists and turns and finally ends with satisfaction. The scene where they finally are able to come to understand one another's feelings is a classic for the ages. I'd type it all out here for you, but you really need to read the entire book to properly feel the weight of the matter. Wentworth's letter--love it! However, a most insightful addition to their reuniting is after they've come to an understanding and are at the Elliot's evening party, while jointly admiring some "fine greenery" Wentworth comes to this realization.
"But I too have been thinking over the past, and a question has suggested itself, whether there may not have been one person more my enemy even that that lady? [referring to Lady Russell's original interference in the match] My own self. Tell me if, when I returned to England in the year eight with a few thousand pounds, and was posted into the Laconia, if I had then written to you, would you have answered my letter? would you, in short, have renewed the engagement then?"
"Would I!" was all her answer; but the accent was decisive enough.
"You would! It is not that I did not think of it, or desire it, as what could alone crown all my other success. But I was proud, too proud to ask again. I did not understand you. I shut my eyes, and would not understand you, or do you justice. This is a recollection which ought to make me forgive every one sooner than myself."
Ah, once again pride can make or break a person.
FYI: The BBC has done some great movie adaptations of this novel. One was produced in 1997(?) and the other was just this year. Both movies have their merits. The first one more strictly follows the book, which I really love, but the new film has its advantages, too. For one, there are scenes added that instead of being an explanatory note by Frederick to Anne after their reunion are included into the story when they actually would have taken place. --And I doubt they could have found a more handsome man to play Wentworth than Rupert Penry-Jones, even if his real name is awful.
Let's get one thing straight at the get-go-- I love Jane Austen's novels. (The exception being Mansfield Park which I think has some of the lamest main characters ever!) Now, I'm sure that I'll do a post on each of her novels eventually, but since Persuasion is my favorite, it gets first billing.
Persuasion was written in a race against failing health in 1815-16. Although Ms. Austen's wit and social satire is as sparkling as ever, her hero and heroine have an extra depth when compared to her other novels. This may be due to their both being older than her previous subjects. Anne Elliot and Capt. Fredrick Wentworth are 27 and 31 at the outset of the book. The beginnings of their connection happens much earlier in their lives (19 and 23), but are separated by the conventions of the day-- no money, his lack of family connections, etc. (As a modern American, sometimes these upper-class, British social rules can seem so annoying.) They break off the engagement, but Anne pines away her days knowing that her one true love has passed her by. Don't think she is an insipid character. She isn't. Anne is well-educated, extremely observant and naturally a peacemaker. Her father and sister are selfish idiots only concerned with appearance- physical and social. They really underestimate and under esteem Anne. In the first chapter, one is struck by Anne's "aloneness." She does have a good friend in a neighbor, Lady Russell, but this friend fulfills a mothering role as Anne's mother died many years previous. One can well understand her loss of losing Capt. Wentworth as not only a husband, but a true friend.
To make a long, twisted story short. . . As fate would have it, Anne and Wentworth are thrown together again, but he has vowed to love anyone, but her. Months pass with them continually in the same social circle; he pursuing (well, sort of) other women; she feeling the loss and struggling to not be overcome by her feelings. As Austen would have it, there must be a time when Wentworth realizes he still loves Anne, but because of his foolish behavior, he may not be able to get her back. (Did you know that Austen's plot line in Pride and Prejudice of Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship was the invention of this particular invention in popular fiction? Notice it in almost every romantic movie or book you read. Again, proof that Austen is amazing.)
The story continues through twists and turns and finally ends with satisfaction. The scene where they finally are able to come to understand one another's feelings is a classic for the ages. I'd type it all out here for you, but you really need to read the entire book to properly feel the weight of the matter. Wentworth's letter--love it! However, a most insightful addition to their reuniting is after they've come to an understanding and are at the Elliot's evening party, while jointly admiring some "fine greenery" Wentworth comes to this realization.
"But I too have been thinking over the past, and a question has suggested itself, whether there may not have been one person more my enemy even that that lady? [referring to Lady Russell's original interference in the match] My own self. Tell me if, when I returned to England in the year eight with a few thousand pounds, and was posted into the Laconia, if I had then written to you, would you have answered my letter? would you, in short, have renewed the engagement then?"
"Would I!" was all her answer; but the accent was decisive enough.
"You would! It is not that I did not think of it, or desire it, as what could alone crown all my other success. But I was proud, too proud to ask again. I did not understand you. I shut my eyes, and would not understand you, or do you justice. This is a recollection which ought to make me forgive every one sooner than myself."
Ah, once again pride can make or break a person.
FYI: The BBC has done some great movie adaptations of this novel. One was produced in 1997(?) and the other was just this year. Both movies have their merits. The first one more strictly follows the book, which I really love, but the new film has its advantages, too. For one, there are scenes added that instead of being an explanatory note by Frederick to Anne after their reunion are included into the story when they actually would have taken place. --And I doubt they could have found a more handsome man to play Wentworth than Rupert Penry-Jones, even if his real name is awful.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Mothering
Mothering by Elaine Cannon copyright 1993
I received this book as a Mother's Day gift from my in-laws back in 1996. My first baby wasn't even a year old yet, and we had just moved to southern Oregon--far, far away. I started to read it after I had just finished a "whining" moment with my own mother over the phone. I was lonely and sad and missing my mother. This was a great book of insight and comfort. It's likely out of print, but I imagine that a few Utah libraries may have a copy if you're interested in reading it.
The book is a collection of essays written by Elaine Cannon on various mothering topics. No, it's not about how to get your children potty trained or the best methods of achieving laundry bliss. It addresses what it means to "mother" and the role of motherhood. The blurb under the first essay reads, " Mothering is the best thing to happen to anyone. It is awesome to have that little person's hand in yours and become aware that his or her life is in your hands as well. Whatever the day's struggles, when the child is tucked in bed at last, his or her smile is worth it." Doesn't that just make you want to read more? Okay, I'll give you more. "Mothering is God's way of blessing the world. Women who play the loving, protective part with infants and children, with handicapped people and needful seniors deserve a tribute. Mothers who deal with tough problems of their own prove skillful in helping other women in the challenging role of mothering. As for the rest of us, we are constantly amazed at how those who have paved the way for us remain a part of us forever."
The final section of the book includes essays/tributes on mothering by other writers. One of my favorite paragraphs from these other essays is by Anne Carroll P. Darger: "a well-educated young mother who has been a civic leader, a member of the Junior League, and a newspaper religion columnist for the Idaho Statesman. " Cannon includes these accolades before the reader begins reading the essay, but Darger's beginning paragraph tells us a great deal more.
" When our daughter Elizabeth was finishing her kindergarten year, her teacher asked her students to state what they wanted to be when they grew up. The answers were published in the kindergarten graduation program. There was a wide range of responses: fireman, nurse, teacher, lawyer, astronaut, doctor, actress, artist, sports hero. . . . Elizabeth was the only member of her class who answered, "I want to be a mother." Actually, she said, "I just want to be a plain ol' mother," which was her way of clarifying for her teacher that unlike other little girls in the class who perhaps wanted to be a doctor and a mom, Elizabeth had chosen motherhood as her primary career. I was thrilled to think that we must be doing something right. Because, you see, I am a "plain ol' mother."
Whether one is a "plain ol' mother" or a "mother extraordinaire", we all can use some encouragement and inspiration. This book serves that up with pleasure, wit, and reverence, too.
I received this book as a Mother's Day gift from my in-laws back in 1996. My first baby wasn't even a year old yet, and we had just moved to southern Oregon--far, far away. I started to read it after I had just finished a "whining" moment with my own mother over the phone. I was lonely and sad and missing my mother. This was a great book of insight and comfort. It's likely out of print, but I imagine that a few Utah libraries may have a copy if you're interested in reading it.
The book is a collection of essays written by Elaine Cannon on various mothering topics. No, it's not about how to get your children potty trained or the best methods of achieving laundry bliss. It addresses what it means to "mother" and the role of motherhood. The blurb under the first essay reads, " Mothering is the best thing to happen to anyone. It is awesome to have that little person's hand in yours and become aware that his or her life is in your hands as well. Whatever the day's struggles, when the child is tucked in bed at last, his or her smile is worth it." Doesn't that just make you want to read more? Okay, I'll give you more. "Mothering is God's way of blessing the world. Women who play the loving, protective part with infants and children, with handicapped people and needful seniors deserve a tribute. Mothers who deal with tough problems of their own prove skillful in helping other women in the challenging role of mothering. As for the rest of us, we are constantly amazed at how those who have paved the way for us remain a part of us forever."
The final section of the book includes essays/tributes on mothering by other writers. One of my favorite paragraphs from these other essays is by Anne Carroll P. Darger: "a well-educated young mother who has been a civic leader, a member of the Junior League, and a newspaper religion columnist for the Idaho Statesman. " Cannon includes these accolades before the reader begins reading the essay, but Darger's beginning paragraph tells us a great deal more.
" When our daughter Elizabeth was finishing her kindergarten year, her teacher asked her students to state what they wanted to be when they grew up. The answers were published in the kindergarten graduation program. There was a wide range of responses: fireman, nurse, teacher, lawyer, astronaut, doctor, actress, artist, sports hero. . . . Elizabeth was the only member of her class who answered, "I want to be a mother." Actually, she said, "I just want to be a plain ol' mother," which was her way of clarifying for her teacher that unlike other little girls in the class who perhaps wanted to be a doctor and a mom, Elizabeth had chosen motherhood as her primary career. I was thrilled to think that we must be doing something right. Because, you see, I am a "plain ol' mother."
Whether one is a "plain ol' mother" or a "mother extraordinaire", we all can use some encouragement and inspiration. This book serves that up with pleasure, wit, and reverence, too.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Running with Angels
Running with Angels: The Inspiring Journey of a Woman Who Turned Personal Tragedy into Triumph Over Obesity by Pamela H. Hansen copyright 2005
As a general rule, I enjoy biographies. That being said, I was skeptical about this book until I heard the author speak at a Time Out for Women event a few years back. She genuinely related the events in her life that led to her being obese and the journey to reclaim her body. I related with much of what she felt and so found the book. The result was not only an enjoyable read, but an inspiring story. One that inspired me to "try again".
Each chapter in the book begins with a flashback scene to the author running her first marathon. It follows with experiences from her struggles with being obese. One of the circumstances of Ms. Hansen's life is the fact that a couple of her children are living with chronic illness that require a lot of physical and emotional stamina and how she constantly sacrifices her well-being in order to serve them. She certainly wouldn't put it that way. She is a wonderful, selfless mother. But she lacked balance in that she wasn't giving herself enough care. Ultimately the loss of a baby moves her to find a way other than food to cope with her grief and daily stress.
She chronicles her attempts over the years to exercise and diet. Her failures feed her feelings of weakness and poor self-esteem. For me one of the most hopeful, and motivating, statements come from later in the book, after she has been quite successful over a period of time with losing weight and exercising regularly.
"Each of those countless times that I started an exercise and/or eating program, it would last for a time and then I'd be right back to where I was before. For thirteen years I had felt as though I could "do it myself," that I didn't need to pay anyone for the privilege of stepping on their scale and be humiliated or have someone tell me I was eating too many of the wrong things and not enough of the right things. I knew which foods were healthy and which were not. I had learned that consuming more calories than I was expending would cause weight gain. Some say that if one knows all that, why continue in these self-defeating behaviors, gaining weight and continuing to be heavy? One of the keys to my success was surrendering to the weekly weigh-in-- having to report and be accountable to someone else. In my case, I found that I couldn't "do it myself"."
For years I've "done it myself" with mediocre and short-lived success controlling my diet. I have enjoyed regular exercise for a number of years, but the diet part was a losing battle. After reading this book again (or at least parts of it again) this past winter, I knew that I "couldn't do it myself" either. I've been going to Weight Watchers since February, and although I didn't have 100 pounds to lose like the author, it's been a long road to lose 15. I've watched a number of woman lose 50 pounds in the same amount of time as it's taken me to lose 15, but I've learned a lot. It wasn't about learning how and what to eat. It has been about attending groups, developing supportive friendships, and having a place to go where I could ask for help and be accountable.
This book inspires not only those struggling with body issues, but with grieving and chronic illness issues, as well. Ms. Hansen's faith and love for her family helped her through this journey and continue to play an important role in her continued success. If you're interested, check out http://www.runningwithangels.com/ for more information about this and a new title by Pam Hansen.
As a general rule, I enjoy biographies. That being said, I was skeptical about this book until I heard the author speak at a Time Out for Women event a few years back. She genuinely related the events in her life that led to her being obese and the journey to reclaim her body. I related with much of what she felt and so found the book. The result was not only an enjoyable read, but an inspiring story. One that inspired me to "try again".
Each chapter in the book begins with a flashback scene to the author running her first marathon. It follows with experiences from her struggles with being obese. One of the circumstances of Ms. Hansen's life is the fact that a couple of her children are living with chronic illness that require a lot of physical and emotional stamina and how she constantly sacrifices her well-being in order to serve them. She certainly wouldn't put it that way. She is a wonderful, selfless mother. But she lacked balance in that she wasn't giving herself enough care. Ultimately the loss of a baby moves her to find a way other than food to cope with her grief and daily stress.
She chronicles her attempts over the years to exercise and diet. Her failures feed her feelings of weakness and poor self-esteem. For me one of the most hopeful, and motivating, statements come from later in the book, after she has been quite successful over a period of time with losing weight and exercising regularly.
"Each of those countless times that I started an exercise and/or eating program, it would last for a time and then I'd be right back to where I was before. For thirteen years I had felt as though I could "do it myself," that I didn't need to pay anyone for the privilege of stepping on their scale and be humiliated or have someone tell me I was eating too many of the wrong things and not enough of the right things. I knew which foods were healthy and which were not. I had learned that consuming more calories than I was expending would cause weight gain. Some say that if one knows all that, why continue in these self-defeating behaviors, gaining weight and continuing to be heavy? One of the keys to my success was surrendering to the weekly weigh-in-- having to report and be accountable to someone else. In my case, I found that I couldn't "do it myself"."
For years I've "done it myself" with mediocre and short-lived success controlling my diet. I have enjoyed regular exercise for a number of years, but the diet part was a losing battle. After reading this book again (or at least parts of it again) this past winter, I knew that I "couldn't do it myself" either. I've been going to Weight Watchers since February, and although I didn't have 100 pounds to lose like the author, it's been a long road to lose 15. I've watched a number of woman lose 50 pounds in the same amount of time as it's taken me to lose 15, but I've learned a lot. It wasn't about learning how and what to eat. It has been about attending groups, developing supportive friendships, and having a place to go where I could ask for help and be accountable.
This book inspires not only those struggling with body issues, but with grieving and chronic illness issues, as well. Ms. Hansen's faith and love for her family helped her through this journey and continue to play an important role in her continued success. If you're interested, check out http://www.runningwithangels.com/ for more information about this and a new title by Pam Hansen.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
North and South
North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell copyright 1855
First, let's clear up any confusion that this might be the civil war saga novel by John Jakes. It is NOT! This elegant piece of work is British through and through and written by a woman. Okay, now we can get down to business.
I just recently read (and reread, I might add) this book last month. I stumbled upon the BBC movie adaptation of the novel, loved it and knew that the book is ALWAYS better than the movie and so ventured forth. The result was so much fun! That isn't to say that the style is easy. I think it might be a bit daunting if you haven't read anything more difficult than Harry Potter recently, but so worth the effort.
The story is primarily concerned with a young woman, Margaret Hale and her "growing up", or becoming wiser is probably more accurate. She is portrayed as a beautiful young woman (of course, because only in Jane Eyre is the heroine plain) with an independent mind and womanly feelings of love and caring towards those who, in her opinion, deserve it. She is more stable a character than either of her parents although they are good people. She has infinitely more depth than her London friends, and is interested and concerned for the welfare of those below her in station.
In the beginning of the novel, she moves from the lush southern England countryside with her middle-class parents of limited income to a manufacturing town in the north. A much different mindset exists among the working class and those who have gained wealth and influence due to their success in business than the strict politeness and rigid class structure of the south and of London. It is in this setting that Margaret meets John Thornton, a wealthy youngish manufacturer, and their consequent antagonistic relationship and eventual regard develops.
The romance part of the novel resembles a similar structure as Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, with out the overwhelming wealth and with actual obstacles to resolution besides pride and misjudgment. Mrs. Gaskell includes chapters from John's point-of-view which greatly enhances the romance as Margaret tends to be less introspective (or at least acknowledging of her feelings) than John.
The other major subject within the story is the plight and struggle of the working class and the "masters". The characterization of Nicholas and Bessy Higgins are particularly good and endearing. The reasons for the strike that ensues are laid out by both sides, and how at least in Thornton's mills the future communications between the workers and the boss improve the situation. Margaret's friendship with Bessie provides an important means for the author to convey the difficulties of the working class, as well as gives Margaret someone to confide in so we can get more insight into her thoughts as well.
There is a fair amount of sadness that vexes Margaret's stay in Milton (the fictional northern town) that really influences the reader to want Margaret and John to be together in order that they might be happy and have someone to lean upon in the struggles and sad times. Mrs. Gaskell leaves us questioning whether or not that will happen until the very last pages. Really, when I started the last chapter, I was stressed out thinking that "here we are at the last chapter, and HOW are these two going to get together???". Gratefully, if not rather briskly, the author gives in to the longing (theirs and the reader's) and grants a happy ending.
I really enjoyed this book. I love a good romance, but the historical aspects of the novel made it all the better and more enjoyable. I enjoy strong, independently minded heroes and heroines, and Margaret Hale and John Thornton were just that. Given the time period in which it was written, it could even be said to have a few "feminist" aspects. Margaret was not your typical empty-minded female whose only thoughts were of how to catch a husband. She wants to better the world within her reach and to encourage others to do the same. Oh, but lets not forget to mention that she is stunningly beautiful, strong-willed, morally upright, AND inherits a fortune. Oh that we all had such advantages. :)
First, let's clear up any confusion that this might be the civil war saga novel by John Jakes. It is NOT! This elegant piece of work is British through and through and written by a woman. Okay, now we can get down to business.
I just recently read (and reread, I might add) this book last month. I stumbled upon the BBC movie adaptation of the novel, loved it and knew that the book is ALWAYS better than the movie and so ventured forth. The result was so much fun! That isn't to say that the style is easy. I think it might be a bit daunting if you haven't read anything more difficult than Harry Potter recently, but so worth the effort.
The story is primarily concerned with a young woman, Margaret Hale and her "growing up", or becoming wiser is probably more accurate. She is portrayed as a beautiful young woman (of course, because only in Jane Eyre is the heroine plain) with an independent mind and womanly feelings of love and caring towards those who, in her opinion, deserve it. She is more stable a character than either of her parents although they are good people. She has infinitely more depth than her London friends, and is interested and concerned for the welfare of those below her in station.
In the beginning of the novel, she moves from the lush southern England countryside with her middle-class parents of limited income to a manufacturing town in the north. A much different mindset exists among the working class and those who have gained wealth and influence due to their success in business than the strict politeness and rigid class structure of the south and of London. It is in this setting that Margaret meets John Thornton, a wealthy youngish manufacturer, and their consequent antagonistic relationship and eventual regard develops.
The romance part of the novel resembles a similar structure as Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, with out the overwhelming wealth and with actual obstacles to resolution besides pride and misjudgment. Mrs. Gaskell includes chapters from John's point-of-view which greatly enhances the romance as Margaret tends to be less introspective (or at least acknowledging of her feelings) than John.
The other major subject within the story is the plight and struggle of the working class and the "masters". The characterization of Nicholas and Bessy Higgins are particularly good and endearing. The reasons for the strike that ensues are laid out by both sides, and how at least in Thornton's mills the future communications between the workers and the boss improve the situation. Margaret's friendship with Bessie provides an important means for the author to convey the difficulties of the working class, as well as gives Margaret someone to confide in so we can get more insight into her thoughts as well.
There is a fair amount of sadness that vexes Margaret's stay in Milton (the fictional northern town) that really influences the reader to want Margaret and John to be together in order that they might be happy and have someone to lean upon in the struggles and sad times. Mrs. Gaskell leaves us questioning whether or not that will happen until the very last pages. Really, when I started the last chapter, I was stressed out thinking that "here we are at the last chapter, and HOW are these two going to get together???". Gratefully, if not rather briskly, the author gives in to the longing (theirs and the reader's) and grants a happy ending.
I really enjoyed this book. I love a good romance, but the historical aspects of the novel made it all the better and more enjoyable. I enjoy strong, independently minded heroes and heroines, and Margaret Hale and John Thornton were just that. Given the time period in which it was written, it could even be said to have a few "feminist" aspects. Margaret was not your typical empty-minded female whose only thoughts were of how to catch a husband. She wants to better the world within her reach and to encourage others to do the same. Oh, but lets not forget to mention that she is stunningly beautiful, strong-willed, morally upright, AND inherits a fortune. Oh that we all had such advantages. :)
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Peter and the Starcatchers
Peter and the Starcatchers by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson copyright 2004
We listened to the audiobook while traveling to California this summer. When I checked it out of the library and noticed that it would take nine hours to listen to the whole thing, I knew Todd would be skeptical that the kids would stick it out to the end. Not only did everyone enjoy it, the time flew by. We were actually looking forward to the little around town trips so we could listen. It's a great family read.
The basis for the story revolves around the "beginnings" of the boy who eventually becomes Peter Pan. We are introduced to Peter and the other potential "lost boys" who are orphans being transported via a horridly filthy old ship to the infamous island of Rangoon to be servants to King Zarboff the third. Along the way they encounter stolen treasure (the most precious cargo ever to go to sea), Molly (a lovely and brave young lady), Black Stache (Capt. Hook figure) in all his evilness, heartless island natives, and a host of other interesting characters. The chapters rotate through the points-of-view of Peter, Black Stache, a vile sailor Slank, Molly, and others as the story moves along. The story is fast paced and intense. Boys will love the adventure and pirate moments.
I love the way Peter's character develops over the course of the story. He begins as a scrappy know-it-all type of child to one who cares about others and is willing to sacrifice for their safety and success. It moves Peter away from being the selfish innocent that is so often portrayed when the play is produced. I like thinking of Peter as a noble boy.
Black Stache's ferociously evil nature stands out in the story. If you ever harbored some sympathy for Capt. Hook, you certainly won't for Black Stache. His cunning and greed coupled with his disregard for any other living soul often shocks your sensibilities. I kept waiting for a bit of humanity to surface from Black Stache, but it never came. Excellent evil character!!!
According to my boys, "This is a good book!" I think they're right!!
We listened to the audiobook while traveling to California this summer. When I checked it out of the library and noticed that it would take nine hours to listen to the whole thing, I knew Todd would be skeptical that the kids would stick it out to the end. Not only did everyone enjoy it, the time flew by. We were actually looking forward to the little around town trips so we could listen. It's a great family read.
The basis for the story revolves around the "beginnings" of the boy who eventually becomes Peter Pan. We are introduced to Peter and the other potential "lost boys" who are orphans being transported via a horridly filthy old ship to the infamous island of Rangoon to be servants to King Zarboff the third. Along the way they encounter stolen treasure (the most precious cargo ever to go to sea), Molly (a lovely and brave young lady), Black Stache (Capt. Hook figure) in all his evilness, heartless island natives, and a host of other interesting characters. The chapters rotate through the points-of-view of Peter, Black Stache, a vile sailor Slank, Molly, and others as the story moves along. The story is fast paced and intense. Boys will love the adventure and pirate moments.
I love the way Peter's character develops over the course of the story. He begins as a scrappy know-it-all type of child to one who cares about others and is willing to sacrifice for their safety and success. It moves Peter away from being the selfish innocent that is so often portrayed when the play is produced. I like thinking of Peter as a noble boy.
Black Stache's ferociously evil nature stands out in the story. If you ever harbored some sympathy for Capt. Hook, you certainly won't for Black Stache. His cunning and greed coupled with his disregard for any other living soul often shocks your sensibilities. I kept waiting for a bit of humanity to surface from Black Stache, but it never came. Excellent evil character!!!
According to my boys, "This is a good book!" I think they're right!!
Monday, September 1, 2008
To Kill a Mockingbird
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee copyright 1960 Pulitzer Prize winner
I first read this book when I was about 16, and it was an eye-opener. Having grown-up in virtually all-white Cache Valley, I had never really been privy to out-and-out racism and its implications. I was shocked and grieved over the idiocy of people such as the Ewells who assume that simply because they are white and Tom Robinson is black that they can lie and threaten and ultimately attempt to have a black man killed through the judicial system. Remember that the setting of the story is in rural Alabama 1935. Ms. Lee could have easily set her story later, more closely to the time of writing, but likely knew the kind of backlash that she would get from Southern whites. It's a brave theme for the time period.
Using Scout as the narrator of the story is pure genius and delight. She tells things in her matter-of-fact way to her understanding. Delight and genius, I tell you! I get a smile within the first few lines and am hooked until the end. Jem, Atticus, Dill, Calpurnia and a host of other background folks emerge in sleepy little Maycomb with the authority of real people that one might find. Atticus is awesome. Full of integrity and subtle, gentle wisdom he urges every reader to be better, be honest and stand up for those who need your protection. Atticus' closing speech to the jury at the end of the Tom Robinson trial captivates and inspires. Additionally the views expressed on the theme of "all men are created equal" raises my hopes and trust in our judicial system. That although one may be born with or earn greater opportunities than another, all men are equal before the law. Sadly, men are imperfect and often disappoint. This holds true for the people of Maycomb despite Atticus' best efforts to defend an innocent man.
Ms. Lee juxtaposes the intensity and seriousness of the Tom Robinson trial with Scout and Jem's attempt to draw Boo Radley out of hiding. Reminding the reader that children are children and develop their own "prejudices" that are largely products of their imaginations. I really feel that she is trying to get the reader to see that the racial prejudice going on in Maycomb, and ultimately the nation, is also a product of imagined differences and fears perpetuated over time. It's kind of a "those who have ears to hear will hear" method of storytelling.
The final scene of the book ends with Scout falling asleep snuggled next to Atticus at Jem's bedside. He's reading to her from one of Jem's books and when he helps her get ready for bed, she protests that she fallen asleep and attempts to tell him about the story he's been reading to her recalling all she's heard:
"An' they chased him 'n' never could catch him 'cause they didn't know what he looked like, an' Atticus, when they finally saw him, why he hadn't done any of those things. . . Atticus, he was real nice. . . ."
His hands were under my chin, pulling up the cover, tucking it arround me. "Most people are, Scout, when you finally see them."
Moral of the story: Yes, most people are "real nice" when we finally "see" them.
I first read this book when I was about 16, and it was an eye-opener. Having grown-up in virtually all-white Cache Valley, I had never really been privy to out-and-out racism and its implications. I was shocked and grieved over the idiocy of people such as the Ewells who assume that simply because they are white and Tom Robinson is black that they can lie and threaten and ultimately attempt to have a black man killed through the judicial system. Remember that the setting of the story is in rural Alabama 1935. Ms. Lee could have easily set her story later, more closely to the time of writing, but likely knew the kind of backlash that she would get from Southern whites. It's a brave theme for the time period.
Using Scout as the narrator of the story is pure genius and delight. She tells things in her matter-of-fact way to her understanding. Delight and genius, I tell you! I get a smile within the first few lines and am hooked until the end. Jem, Atticus, Dill, Calpurnia and a host of other background folks emerge in sleepy little Maycomb with the authority of real people that one might find. Atticus is awesome. Full of integrity and subtle, gentle wisdom he urges every reader to be better, be honest and stand up for those who need your protection. Atticus' closing speech to the jury at the end of the Tom Robinson trial captivates and inspires. Additionally the views expressed on the theme of "all men are created equal" raises my hopes and trust in our judicial system. That although one may be born with or earn greater opportunities than another, all men are equal before the law. Sadly, men are imperfect and often disappoint. This holds true for the people of Maycomb despite Atticus' best efforts to defend an innocent man.
Ms. Lee juxtaposes the intensity and seriousness of the Tom Robinson trial with Scout and Jem's attempt to draw Boo Radley out of hiding. Reminding the reader that children are children and develop their own "prejudices" that are largely products of their imaginations. I really feel that she is trying to get the reader to see that the racial prejudice going on in Maycomb, and ultimately the nation, is also a product of imagined differences and fears perpetuated over time. It's kind of a "those who have ears to hear will hear" method of storytelling.
The final scene of the book ends with Scout falling asleep snuggled next to Atticus at Jem's bedside. He's reading to her from one of Jem's books and when he helps her get ready for bed, she protests that she fallen asleep and attempts to tell him about the story he's been reading to her recalling all she's heard:
"An' they chased him 'n' never could catch him 'cause they didn't know what he looked like, an' Atticus, when they finally saw him, why he hadn't done any of those things. . . Atticus, he was real nice. . . ."
His hands were under my chin, pulling up the cover, tucking it arround me. "Most people are, Scout, when you finally see them."
Moral of the story: Yes, most people are "real nice" when we finally "see" them.
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