I haven't been here, but have news....
Find a Conversation
| Tue, 08-09-2005 - 5:45pm |
A couple of things: Cleveland PBS radio & TV along with the local dramatic arts organization (really quite good)are presenting a Center Stage Program called "Writers!" Appearing are Anna Quindlen (read her "Blessing"....great book), Pat Conroy, Alexander McCall Smith (looking forward to reading him)& Jane Smiley. The large ad in the paper on Sunday said "hear the writers, enjoy their stories & ask questions!" I have to call for the details since there's nothing on line. I have a cousin who teaches high school American Literature, & I think it would be good to attend with her....she's very knowledgeable about American authors.
Secondly: I haven't been on the board because I've been flat on my back with a severe back spasm. I will spare you the details & just say that after a few days in bed, I got kinda antsy. Thank goodness one of the treatment methods is moving around as much as possible. That said, I did manage to read quite a bit. I tried to read Richard Russo's "Straight Man", but couldn't get into it. Stories about really silly adult men aren't my cup of tea! So I got into "Angry Housewives Eating Bon Bons." Anxious to hear what those of you who've read it will comment. IMHO, Lorna Landvik is way over rated. The book started out quite well & the character developement was rather good. It starts with a group of women who come together & form a book club. In the beginning the group discussed some of the books...each chapter hightlighted the book of the month.....so I learned a few things & got some ideas. However further discussions for BOTM went by the wayside, which was disappointing. Then the plot became more & more contrived, diminishing the story & the characters. I got the feeling that Landvik was filling the pages with lots of meaningless verbage to lengthen the novel. IMHO, less is more. During the last few chapters, I found myself wishing it would end, already! Was this too much information? dee

Welcome back dee! I can relate to being flat on back with spasms- not a good time at all. I went though that many years ago and I wouldn't wish that on anyone- not even to get more reading time:)
Sounds like a great program- I must admit I haven't gotten into Alexander McCall Smith rage yet. There are so many other books on my list but his books seem to be very popular. I think I would look forward to hearing from Pat Conroy the most.
Hope you are well soon:)
Hi Dee!
Nice to see you here.