June / Historical Fiction Poll

[Scheherazade]

In June, we will be reading a historical novel.

Please post your nominations here by April 30th.




***This poll will close on May 31st.***

[JBI]

I nominate Fifth Business by Robertson Davies.

[stlukesguild]

How about Gore Vidal's Julian?

[Scheherazade]

Katherine by Anya Seton.

[Dark Muse]

I love historical fiction

It is hard to pick just one to nominate but I am going to go with

The Mistress of the Art of Death by Ariana Franklin

[Scheherazade]

Nominations so far:

1. Fifth Business by Robertson Davies

2. Julian Gore Vidal

3. Katherine by Anya Seton

4. The Mistress of the Art of Death by Ariana Franklin

[Virgil]

I have wanted to read a Walter Scott novel for the longest time. I'll suggest Waverly but if there is another people would recommend I can switch.

[Dark Muse]

I thought about nominating Ivanhoe

[Scheherazade]

I am not actually a big fan of historical novel, to be honest.

[MissScarlett]

I'm not a big fan of the historical novel, either, but Katherine would probably get my vote as I've read other books by Anya Seton and enjoyed them.

[Janine]

Dark Muse,I loved "Ivanhoe"; maybe I would love the one you mentioned, Virgil....why not nominate either?

[Scheherazade]

I'm not a big fan of the historical novel, either, but Katherine would probably get my vote as I've read other books by Anya Seton and enjoyed them.It is in BBC's Big Read list as well so it would be great for me to get it out of the way :D

[MissScarlett]

I didn't know it was in BBC's Big Read, but it's always sounded pretty good to me. I'm sure it would get my vote. ;) I don't particularly like historical fiction, but Katherine sounds pretty good.

[Dark Muse]

Dark Muse,I loved "Ivanhoe"; maybe I would love the one you mentioned, Virgil....why not nominate either?

I haven't acutally read the one I nominated yet, so I could not say if I think you would like it or not. I read something about it which sounded interesting and so I nominated it to motivate me to read it.

[jakobmuller]

the wikipedia page classifies les mis a historical fiction lol

[Virgil]

I am not actually a big fan of historical novel, to be honest.

As a rule I'm not either, but I've recently read up a little on the evolution of the historical novel and realized it is part of the tradition. And why not start with the beginning and Walter Scott. I don't know which Scott novel to pick but I always hear of Waverly being spoken of. I was hoping Kilt would help out here. SO since I have not heard I will nominate Waverly.

[Janine]

I haven't acutally read the one I nominated yet, so I could not say if I think you would like it or not. I read something about it which sounded interesting and so I nominated it to motivate me to read it.

I am confused; Dark Muse, did you officially nominate "Ivanhoe"? It is one of my favorite novels. It looks like Virgil now nominated the other Scott novel, "Waverly". In that case, can two Scott novels be nominated? I would nominate "Ivanhoe", as well. I don't know a thing about "Waverly".

[Dark Muse]

No I haven't nominated Ivanhoe it was one of the many books in HF that I have and considered but I choose another book that I got last year that I have been wanting to read

[bouquin]

I would like to nominate THE PLOT AGAINST AMERICA by Philip Roth. Thanks.

[wessexgirl]

I didn't know it was in BBC's Big Read, but it's always sounded pretty good to me. I'm sure it would get my vote. ;) I don't particularly like historical fiction, but Katherine sounds pretty good.

I love historical fiction, and Katherine is one of the greatest there is. I haven't read it for years, but it's a masterpiece of the genre. I don't know of anyone who has ever read it who has not fallen completely head over heels in love with it. I love historical novels where I can learn a lot about the period and the history, and the fact that it's based on a true story is compelling. There is a huge difference between novels like this, and those that are just light novels "dropped" into a period of history with no real thought about the time, where it just serves as a backdrop to a romance. I loved Ivanhoe too. There is such a fantastic selection of brilliant historical novels, I wouldn't know where to start. One of the other "greats" is Forever Amber, but that's not my choice. I will have to have a good think, as I would love to join in with this one.

[Janine]

I will nominate "Ivanhoe", because I thought the novel was very good.

I thought of another one that is historical, "Last of the Mohicans", but I am not nominating that one. Someone else can if they feel inclined.

[Scheherazade]

Nominations so far:

1. Fifth Business by Robertson Davies

2. Julian Gore Vidal

3. Katherine by Anya Seton

4. The Mistress of the Art of Death by Ariana Franklin

5. The Plot Against America by Philip Roth

6. Ivanhoe

[Virgil]

Yoo hoo, I nominated Waverly back in post #16. :D

[Niamh]

I nominate The Boy in the striped Pyjamas

[JBI]

Can I withdraw my nomination and change it for The Colony of Unrequited Dreams by Wayne Johnston? Or, if that is impossible, can someone else just nominate this?

[Drkshadow03]

Can I withdraw my nomination and change it for The Colony of Unrequited Dreams by Wayne Johnston? Or, if that is impossible, can someone else just nominate this?

I nominate The Colony of Unrequited Dreams by Wayne Johnston.

[MissScarlett]

I love historical fiction, and Katherine is one of the greatest there is. I haven't read it for years, but it's a masterpiece of the genre. I don't know of anyone who has ever read it who has not fallen completely head over heels in love with it. I love historical novels where I can learn a lot about the period and the history, and the fact that it's based on a true story is compelling. There is a huge difference between novels like this, and those that are just light novels "dropped" into a period of history with no real thought about the time, where it just serves as a backdrop to a romance. I loved Ivanhoe too. There is such a fantastic selection of brilliant historical novels, I wouldn't know where to start. One of the other "greats" is Forever Amber, but that's not my choice. I will have to have a good think, as I would love to join in with this one.

Though I haven't read Katherine, I love the writing of Anya Seton and I can't imagine Katherine being anything but superb. She was also a fascinating historical figure. (Katherine, not Anya Seton!)

[kilted exile]

As a rule I'm not either, but I've recently read up a little on the evolution of the historical novel and realized it is part of the tradition. And why not start with the beginning and Walter Scott. I don't know which Scott novel to pick but I always hear of Waverly being spoken of. I was hoping Kilt would help out here. SO since I have not heard I will nominate Waverly.


I would be in complete agreement with starting with Scott. The man was fantastic. Ivanhoe is good, but Rob Roy is where its at (completely different from the liam neeson film storyline incase anyone is worried about that - great story about rise of jacobitism)

[wessexgirl]

Though I haven't read Katherine, I love the writing of Anya Seton and I can't imagine Katherine being anything but superb. She was also a fascinating historical figure. (Katherine, not Anya Seton!)

I've read other works by Anya Seton, and they were good, and I enjoyed them, but Katherine is in a class of its own. I think it was definitely her masterpiece. Katherine Swynford's story, from relatively humble origins to someone whose descendants would inherit the throne, is a wonderful read. Thinking of the novel, it makes me want to read it again, but I will hold back a while, in case I think of something else I haven't read yet.

[Janine]

Yoo hoo, I nominated Waverly back in post #16. :D

I noticed that too, Virgil, and I wasn't trying to get ahead of you on which Scott to read. I just noticed a lot of people mentioned "Ivanhoe" and asked if two by the same author could be nominated. I didn't really get any answer on that, so I went ahead and nominated it. I don't know anything about "Waverly", do you? What is the novel about? At anyrate, maybe that can also be nominated.

[wessexgirl]

I've thought of a few really interesting ones. As a sucker for the Civil War period, (the English one) what about As Meat Loves Salt by Maria McCann? (Absolutely nothing to do with the fact that I'm currently reading this ;)). Or a couple of Victorian thrillers, The Suspicions of Mr Whicher, (actually non-fiction, but written like a novel), or The Meaning of Night by Michael Cox? One I absolutely must read is The Casebook of Victor Frankenstein by Peter Ackroyd, involving many of the literati of the time. Ooh, choices, choices.........

Ok, decision made. Can I nominate that last one, the Ackroyd please?


http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/books/fiction/article4627299.ece

[MissScarlett]

I read The Meaning of Night last year. Absolutely loved it.

[Virgil]

I noticed that too, Virgil, and I wasn't trying to get ahead of you on which Scott to read. I just noticed a lot of people mentioned "Ivanhoe" and asked if two by the same author could be nominated. I didn't really get any answer on that, so I went ahead and nominated it. I don't know anything about "Waverly", do you? What is the novel about? At anyrate, maybe that can also be nominated.

I didn't know much about Waverly except that when I see Scott mentioned in literary criticism, that seems to be the book most mentioned. I know nothing about Ivanhoe or Rob Roy that Kilt has suggested. I guess for now I'll stay with Waverly until I can do a quick research. Length of book matters to me too; I can't spend the time on a six hundred page novel I'm afraid.

Yes more than one book by the same author can be nominated. It's one nomination per lit net member.

[MissScarlett]

Waverly is Sir Walter Scott's first novel. It's set during the Jacobite Rebellion of 1745 and centers around Edward Waverly, who leaves his aristocratic home in southern England and journeys to Scotland to restore the "rightful" monarchy. Waverly is often called "the first historical novel."

I read it in school. It's good, but Sir Walter Scott can be tedious at times. He's not for everyone, but then, who is?

[Scheherazade]

Sorry about that, Virgil! :)

Nominations so far:

1. The Colony of Unrequited Dreams by Wayne Johnston

2. Julian Gore Vidal

3. Katherine by Anya Seton

4. The Mistress of the Art of Death by Ariana Franklin

5. The Plot Against America by Philip Roth

6. Ivanhoe[/QUOTE]

7. Waverly

8. The Boy in the striped Pyjamas

9. The Casebook of Victor Frankenstein [/B]by Peter Ackroyd


Last nomination up for grabs!

[kilted exile]

Ok, I've got time just now to involve myself so: Rob Roy

[Virgil]

Waverly is Sir Walter Scott's first novel. It's set during the Jacobite Rebellion of 1745 and centers around Edward Waverly, who leaves his aristocratic home in southern England and journeys to Scotland to restore the "rightful" monarchy. Waverly is often called "the first historical novel."

Yes, I have seen it refered to as the first historical novel. That is why I nominated it.


I read it in school. It's good, but Sir Walter Scott can be tedious at times. He's not for everyone, but then, who is?
Having never read Scott I am doing myself a disservice. Anyone who could invent an entire genre that is still going strong two hundred years later deserves attention.

[wessexgirl]

I read The Meaning of Night last year. Absolutely loved it.

I've just read that Michael Cox has died. He had been in ill-health for years, but such a shame. Apparently he wanted to write a third book as there was a second to TMON. I started TMON last year, but didn't finish it as I had to return it to the Library. I do want to try it again though.

[Scheherazade]

The final 10:

1. The Colony of Unrequited Dreams by Wayne Johnston

2. Julian Gore Vidal

3. Katherine by Anya Seton

4. The Mistress of the Art of Death by Ariana Franklin

5. The Plot Against America by Philip Roth

6. Ivanhoe[/QUOTE]

7. Waverly

8. The Boy in the striped Pyjamas

9. The Casebook of Victor Frankenstein [/B]by Peter Ackroyd

10. Rob Roy

[Virgil]

We people who want to read Walter Scott should all agree on the same one or we will divide our vote and surely lose. I don't have a preference so whichever you guys want is fine with me.

[MissScarlett]

I've just read that Michael Cox has died. He had been in ill-health for years, but such a shame. Apparently he wanted to write a third book as there was a second to TMON. I started TMON last year, but didn't finish it as I had to return it to the Library. I do want to try it again though.

Oh, that's terrible! Such a shame. I do think I had read he'd been in ill health, but I thought whatever it was, he overcame it. I recently purchased the "sort of" sequel to The Meaning of Night, but I haven't read it yet.

Thank you for posting the news, sad though it is.


Katherine by Anya Seton.

Can we bribe people to vote for Katherine? ;)

[JBI]

I dunno - I find Scott to be boring, and as for the historical novel going strong, it has come a very, very long way, to the point where I don't think a serious author can write historical realism anymore, and must rely on metaficticious elements (Kroetsch), or intense satire (Saramago).

Generally though, history, as represented in novels, has seriously changed. It went from being a form of escapism, to a form of identity and pride, and then nostalgia, and then to something which is constantly undercut and manipulated.

What is interesting to note about Scott, is the power he had in establishing the 3 volume novel as the standard form, which prevailed in England up until the time Vizetelly completely destroyed the publishing world by tossing out 2 and a half shilling copies of Zola (of which, we now have the pleasure of viewing on this website, though the translations are supposedly beyond mediocre). In terms of publishing, Scott was perhaps the most central figure in transforming the way people accessed books, and the way people read novels.

As a writer though, well, he is interesting in places. He's an interesting poet too though.

It seems though, that this selection is pretty masculine, all things considered, and it would have been interesting to have some feminist texts dealing with history, like perhaps Anne Hebert's great Gothic historical novel Karmouraska, or Willa Cather's My Antonia (or some other text). In truth, it seems a bit limited to have 3 novels by the same author.

[Janine]

We people who want to read Walter Scott should all agree on the same one or we will divide our vote and surely lose. I don't have a preference so whichever you guys want is fine with me.

I hate to break this to you, Virgil, but I think "Waverly" is a whole set of novels by Scott. I just looked it up online and on Ebay someone is selling the whole set. It would take all year to study "Waverly". I would prefer the more managable "Ivanhoe". It's a really good novel; I read it years ago. I don't know much about "Rob Roy", only that I saw the movie version with Liam Neeson years ago.

[JBI]

I hate to break this to you, Virgil, but I think "Waverly" is a whole set of novels by Scott. I just looked it up online and on Ebay someone is selling the whole set. It would take all year to study "Waverly". I would prefer the more managable "Ivanhoe". It's a really good novel; I read it years ago. I don't know much about "Rob Roy", only that I saw the movie version with Liam Neeson years ago.

The name refers to the novel Waverley as well as the collection of novels that make up his entire opus (though the term usually refers to the ones set in Scotland).

[Janine]

The name refers to the novel Waverley as well as the collection of novels that make up his entire opus (though the term usually refers to the ones set in Scotland).

Oh thanks for clearing that up, JBI, I didn't know about the difference. Is "Waverley" a very long novel and what is it about?

[MissScarlett]

Waverly is Sir Walter Scott's first novel. It's set during the Jacobite Rebellion of 1745 and centers around Edward Waverly, who leaves his aristocratic home in southern England and journeys to Scotland to restore the "rightful" monarchy. Waverly is often called "the first historical novel."

I read it in school. It's good, but Sir Walter Scott can be tedious at times. He's not for everyone, but then, who is?

Here, Janine. In post #34, I wrote very, very briefly what Waverly is about.

Personally, I didn't like the book at all, but it just wasn't to my taste. It's fairly long, and personally, I found it boring. I'm sure many people do like it.

Here is Waverley on Amazon, Janine:

http://www.amazon.com/Waverley-Sixty-Oxford-Worlds-Classics/dp/0192836013/ref=pd_bbs_sr_3?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1239085534&sr=8-3

They have Ivanhoe and Rob Roy as well as single books. Not expensive at all.

[Gladys]

Who nominated 'Julian' by Gore Vidal, and why?

Here is a coincidence. An hour ago I sent messages to Janine and Virgil regarding Henrik Ibsen's favourite play, Emperor and Galilean, concerning the Roman Emperor Julian the Apostate.

The polymath Julian - last direct relative of Constantine the Great - strived to diminish the influence of the Christian church, bringing back Graeco-Roman gods, but died at 33 after only three years as emperor.

[optimisticnad]

I have wanted to read a Walter Scott novel for the longest time. I'll suggest Waverly but if there is another people would recommend I can switch.

NOOOOO!!! That was awful. Honestly. Trust me!

Would the name of the rose be historical fiction? Have we had too much of this book on this forum? :lol:

[MissScarlett]

NOOOOO!!! That was awful. Honestly. Trust me!

Would the name of the rose be historical fiction? Have we had too much of this book on this forum? :lol:

I agree with you. I found all of Sir Walter Scott's books to be awful to read. I give him credit where credit is due, but he's not an interesting writer.

[Janine]

I agree with you. I found all of Sir Walter Scott's books to be awful to read. I give him credit where credit is due, but he's not an interesting writer.

:lol: I read Ivanhoe about 25 yrs ago. Maybe back then, I was really inexperienced to know what good literature was. Besides, it was just after adorable Anthony Andrews (of the Brideshead Revisited fame) played the role in the made-for-TV film version. Anyone ever see the production? I am sure I totally imagined him in the role; so being young and starry-eyed back then, no doubt, I didn't notice the book was boring or poorly written. Maybe today, I would hate the book; but that movie sure was good. Wish I could see it again. I found it on Amazon one day but it was quite expensive.

At anyrate, "Waverley" sounds like a complete bore! ugh....*thumbs down*

[Scheherazade]

Would the name of the rose be historical fiction? Have we had too much of this book on this forum? :lol:We have already got the 10 nominations needed, Nad.

:)

[JBI]

It's spelled Waverley, not Waverly, for those confused.

[optimisticnad]

:eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek:

I thought I double posted here with my earlier post about w. scott's novel - but apparently not...am i going mad?

[wessexgirl]

:lol: I read Ivanhoe about 25 yrs ago. Maybe back then, I was really inexperienced to know what good literature was. Besides, it was just after adorable Anthony Andrews (of the Brideshead Revisited fame) played the role in the made-for-TV film version. Anyone ever see the production? I am sure I totally imagined him in the role; so being young and starry-eyed back then, no doubt, I didn't notice the book was boring or poorly written. Maybe today, I would hate the book; but that movie sure was good. Wish I could see it again. I found it on Amazon one day but it was quite expensive.

At anyrate, "Waverly" sounds like a complete bore! ugh....*thumbs down*

Hi Janine. I saw it and have an old video of it. I loved Anthony Andrews too, but I preferred Sam Neill as the baddie, wow he was lovely, (and Andrews reminds me of my ex, :flare:). I love SN, (and used to have a picture of him inside my wardrobe like a teenager) and think had I been in Rebecca's situation I probably wouldn't have argued too much ;)! Stuart Wilson was lovely too, (another baddie), what am I saying here? Anyway, I think I should watch it again too. I read the book around the same time, and I really liked it. The one jarring thing in the film was Rowena.....she was rubbish. The Beeb did a version a few years later, but it wasn't a patch on this one, the hero wasn't fanciable in my eyes.

Don't beat yourself up Janine. You read the book and liked it. It is good literature, but even if it wasn't, you enjoyed it, that's the main thing. Don't let anyone make you feel bad about what you like :).

[MissScarlett]

:lol: I read Ivanhoe about 25 yrs ago. Maybe back then, I was really inexperienced to know what good literature was. Besides, it was just after adorable Anthony Andrews (of the Brideshead Revisited fame) played the role in the made-for-TV film version. Anyone ever see the production? I am sure I totally imagined him in the role; so being young and starry-eyed back then, no doubt, I didn't notice the book was boring or poorly written. Maybe today, I would hate the book; but that movie sure was good. Wish I could see it again. I found it on Amazon one day but it was quite expensive.

At anyrate, "Waverley" sounds like a complete bore! ugh....*thumbs down*

I don't think you were inexperienced, Janine. I think it's just a case of different people liking different things. Taste varies. Just because I don't like something, or someone else didn't doesn't mean it isn't good literature. I feel sure you've always been a good judge of good literature. After all, you love Lawrence! :)

[Janine]

Hi Janine. I saw it and have an old video of it. I loved Anthony Andrews too, but I preferred Sam Neill as the baddie, wow he was lovely, (and Andrews reminds me of my ex, :flare:). I love SN, (and used to have a picture of him inside my wardrobe like a teenager) and think had I been in Rebecca's situation I probably wouldn't have argued too much ;)! Stuart Wilson was lovely too, (another baddie), what am I saying here? Anyway, I think I should watch it again too. I read the book around the same time, and I really liked it. The one jarring thing in the film was Rowena.....she was rubbish. The Beeb did a version a few years later, but it wasn't a patch on this one, the hero wasn't fanciable in my eyes.

Hi wessexgirl, haven't seen you around here lately; maybe we were on different threads. I would die to own that production of "Ivanhoe" with Anthony Andrews. I know what you maean about ex's looking like an actor. After I got my divorce I had this adversion to certain types of men who resemble him. Wonder if Youtube has any cuts from that productions; I will have to check and also check the other production with Sam Neill. He was very attractive when younger; still is, I believe. I just recall that awful scene in "The Piano" and then I had this adversion to Sam Neill for awhile; that is silly I know, since he was playing a character. Yes, Rowena was a pain, was she not? I didn't know there were that many productions of "Ivanhoe".


Don't beat yourself up Janine. You read the book and liked it. It is good literature, but even if it wasn't, you enjoyed it, that's the main thing. Don't let anyone make you feel bad about what you like :).

Ahhh..you are sweet saying this. I wouldn't imagine someone as famous as Scott would be considered 'bad' literature actually. But, I have not read this book for maybe 20, 25 yrs....yes, I am that old! :( Therefore, my full recollection of the text eludes me, but I did enjoy the story very much. Right; that is the main thing! :)

[wessexgirl]

Here you are Janine, enjoy.....;)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNf2idA3y-g&feature=related

As far as I know there have been 3 versions. The old one with Robert Taylor and Eliabeth Taylor, this one with Anthony Andrews and Sam Neill and the newer one with Steven Waddington and Ciaran Hinds. This is the best.

[kilted exile]

I don't know much about "Rob Roy", only that I saw the movie version with Liam Neeson years ago.

The liam neeson film has nothing to do with the scott novel. Storyline completely different

[Janine]

Here you are Janine, enjoy.....;)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNf2idA3y-g&feature=related

As far as I know there have been 3 versions. The old one with Robert Taylor and Eliabeth Taylor, this one with Anthony Andrews and Sam Neill and the newer one with Steven Waddington and Ciaran Hinds. This is the best.

wessexgirl, I am one step ahead of you; but thanks for the link just the same. I watched these this afternoon and I found the DVD is soon to be released on Amazon; you can preorder, so I guess you know what landed in my shopping cart. It's not that much $ either. I am thrilled; I have wanted this film for a long time. Now, I also looked up other obscure things on Youtube. I hadn't even realised that Sam Neill played in that Ivanhoe. How great is that? Now I have a double interest in it and I always thought that Olivia De Hussy(sp?) was just amazing and so pretty. I am trying to find something else to add to the cart to get "Super-Saving Shipping".

Kilted, that's good to know, since I wasn't crazy over that film. I guess I liked it well enough, back then when it came out in theaters; but now, it would not appeal to me at all. Glad to hear the book is much better; but I still don't have a burning desire to read that novel.

[stlukesguild]

Who nominated 'Julian' by Gore Vidal, and why?

Julian is one of Gore Vidal's "historical fictions"... and the emphasis must surely be placed upon the word fiction. Vidal begins with a Post-Modernist structure... the novel being essentially conveyed through the fictive journals of the emperor Julian which are edited and tampered with by two *****y ancient editors who insert catty remarks, comic comments, dirty jokes, gossip, etc... The novel is at once historically accurate... painting a clear picture of the various intrigues, power struggles, and sexual escapades of the Roman Empire... yet it tears the same history... as it has been commonly passed down... completely apart. The novel recalls Robert Graves, I, Claudius... but without the reverence. Vidal is far more satirical and humorous... clearly falling within the tradition of Cervantes, Sterne, Rabelais, and Kafka as opposed to the writers of "serious" historical narratives. Vidal's Myra Breckenridge is a comic masterwork and I had started to read Julian last year and loved it... as far as I got... but somehow never finished as other things got in the way.

[Gladys]

Vidal is far more satirical and humorous... clearly falling within the tradition of Cervantes, Sterne, Rabelais, and Kafka as opposed to the writers of "serious" historical narratives.

I'll soon finish Ibsen's ironic and elaborate treatment of the apostate Emperor Julian, therefore the Gore Vidal appeals to me. Julian, second only to Marcus Aurelius as thinker and writer, is fascinating. Besides, I love Kafka and Cervantes.


https://www.1st-art-gallery.com/thumbnail/104025/1/Julian-The-Apostate.jpg

Does Vidal write as well as he speaks?

[Don Quixote Jr]

I hope a direct reply is the correct procedure here? Anyways...I nominate
The Killer Angels by Michael Shaara
and I second the nomination!

[Scheherazade]

I hope a direct reply is the correct procedure here? Anyways...I nominate
The Killer Angels by Michael Shaara
and I second the nomination!Thanks for your nomination but we have already got the 10 nominations we needed.

Maybe next month!

[Janine]

I'll soon finish Ibsen's ironic and elaborate treatment of the apostate Emperor Julian, therefore the Gore Vidal appeals to me. Julian, second only to Marcus Aurelius as thinker and writer, is fascinating. Besides, I love Kafka and Cervantes.


https://www.1st-art-gallery.com/thumbnail/104025/1/Julian-The-Apostate.jpg

Does Vidal write as well as he speaks?

Hi Gladys, I have been trying to get to your email reply; I suddenly got swamped. Sorry for the delay. I love this painting. Do you know who did it? The colors are very appealing - simply beautiful.

[Scheherazade]

And a five-way tie!

:D

[kilted exile]

not anymore its not

[Virgil]

not anymore its not

:lol: And I just did too.

[Janine]

There is still time to vote. You never know which way it might go.....

[Niamh]

*mutters something about it only being a fair deal*

[papayahed]

*Vote for sale*

[Scheherazade]

Wondering why I didn't nominate Master and Commander...

I might still go ahead and read one of those.


*Vote for sale*The usual or something different?

:D

Last month I read American Pastoral by Roth and wouldn't mind giving The Plot Against America a try either.

[Nightshade]

Noo Ive tracked down a 19th centurey edition of rob roy in original binding, I want an excuse to book that out of the library and read that...so Rob roy has to win! :nod:

[Scheherazade]

I probably will not be reading Rob Roy if it wins.

I will mostly have finished both my work and assignments, come June; so I am really looking forward to picking up my reading.

[Jozanny]

Ah. I'd love to join in, but I'm like a broken record with the same old problems (sigh). It would be far easier for me to one click the winner @ Amazon than to economize and attempt to rattle this bucket to the library, and I would always splurge on books, even unwisely, but I am still trying to unpack myself down to my writing comfort level, and until I get there I'd rather not buy even used editions.

I am still unsure when my uncle's company will have rebuilt my Quickie, a model in which I'm secure enough, of course, for library dashing. I will yank my hair in mock exasperation and think about it a day or two, because I am into historical fiction of late. I like Vidal's wit, but at the moment, don't know what I'd want. Virgil could be a dear and let me borrow his dog to put my books back the right way in my diminished closet space, assuming the dog doesn't want ten dollars an hour ;). Aren't I simply horrid?:D:D

[Scheherazade]

attempt to rattle this bucket to the library, Have talked to your library about the issue at all? They might have postal delivery services? Or maybe a relative can collect the book for you if you place an order for it?

[Nightshade]

Ah. I'd love to join in, but I'm like a broken record with the same old problems (sigh). It would be far easier for me to one click the winner @ Amazon than to economize and attempt to rattle this bucket to the library, and I would always splurge on books, even unwisely, but I am still trying to unpack myself down to my writing comfort level, and until I get there I'd rather not buy even used editions.

I am still unsure when my uncle's company will have rebuilt my Quickie, a model in which I'm secure enough, of course, for library dashing. I will yank my hair in mock exasperation and think about it a day or two, because I am into historical fiction of late. I like Vidal's wit, but at the moment, don't know what I'd want. Virgil could be a dear and let me borrow his dog to put my books back the right way in my diminished closet space, assuming the dog doesn't want ten dollars an hour ;). Aren't I simply horrid?:D:D


Have talked to your library about the issue at all? They might have postal delivery services? Or maybe a relative can collect the book for you if you place an order for it?

Hey Jozanny,
I dont know about the states but since it is the best practise model I am assuming they offer it too, but here in teh UK all libraries provide a housbound/ books on wheels service. You could probably join tempporarily and ring them up and go I want such and such and such a book, its actually really helpful when people on this service doo this because otherwise you are sort of guessing blind as to what people want. Also they might be wiling to give you more books and for an extenede tie without fines. ( and by the way if anyone reads this and you live in the uk they pretty much HAVE to give this to you because of DDA ) or like shcer said ring up orser a whole bunch of boks and get a realtive to pick them up :nod: :D

[Jozanny]

Have talked to your library about the issue at all? They might have postal delivery services? Or maybe a relative can collect the book for you if you place an order for it?

Jeez Sche, you jogged my memory, they do have a handicapped services division. I'll check and see if the mayor's budget cuts would make it whatever for me to sign up, but they are on 9th & Walnut. I was going to do voice tapes for them years ago. I'll make some calls this week. Thanks!:p (I really forgot.)

[Virgil]

Ah. I'd love to join in, but I'm like a broken record with the same old problems (sigh). It would be far easier for me to one click the winner @ Amazon than to economize and attempt to rattle this bucket to the library, and I would always splurge on books, even unwisely, but I am still trying to unpack myself down to my writing comfort level, and until I get there I'd rather not buy even used editions.

I am still unsure when my uncle's company will have rebuilt my Quickie, a model in which I'm secure enough, of course, for library dashing. I will yank my hair in mock exasperation and think about it a day or two, because I am into historical fiction of late. I like Vidal's wit, but at the moment, don't know what I'd want. Virgil could be a dear and let me borrow his dog to put my books back the right way in my diminished closet space, assuming the dog doesn't want ten dollars an hour ;). Aren't I simply horrid?:D:D

You're not horrid. If I can take you out to lunch one day shortly I will be glad to help you with what i can. :)

[A Snowy Evening]

would it be unethical to post 40 times really fast in order to vote in this poll? hehe.

[Michael T]

I voted for Philip Roth because I haven't read anything of his yet...Haven't read Gore Vidal either so I'll be happy if one of those two win the vote...fingers crossed! :)

[papayahed]

would it be unethical to post 40 times really fast in order to vote in this poll? hehe.


There's always the games section of the forum..

[Scheherazade]

Another tie???

This is proving interesting!

[Janine]

We still have 11 days; anything can happen.

[Page Turner]

Well, of course I can't vote being a noobie but I'm rooting for Ivanhoe or Rob Roy.

[Nightshade]

Well you are only 41 posts short, go play in the games section for a few days and then ypou will be able to vote :D

[Stargazer86]

I've never heard of Rob Roy, though it looks as if I may be reading it soon as it's in the lead now :) Synopsis anyone?

[Virgil]

Ooh, Rob Roy has pulled away. I should start looking for a book. I need a Russian language learning book, so I think I'll make an amazon purchase of a few things.

[A Snowy Evening]

There's always the games section of the forum..

and off i go!

[kilted exile]

I've never heard of Rob Roy, though it looks as if I may be reading it soon as it's in the lead now :) Synopsis anyone?

just forget the film with liam neeson - has nothing to do with that

deals with jacobitism

[Nightshade]

awww I thought it was robinhoody *Sigh* ah well .

[kilted exile]

awww I thought it was robinhoody *Sigh* ah well .

there is plenty of action too

[Nightshade]

good good, else i will be forced to read Foul play by Charles Reade . !

[prendrelemick]

C'mon Ivanhoe! You can take the Scottish upstart.

[Nightshade]

C'mon Ivanhoe! You can take the Scottish upstart.

I do belive they were both written by the same Scottish person? :lol: :p

[Janine]

C'mon Ivanhoe! You can take the Scottish upstart.

haha..."Ivanhoe" had a sudden resurgance of interest. I read that book way back when and loved it. I was sure "Rob Roy" would win, but I have never heard a thing about the novel.

Yes, Nightshade, they were both written by Sir Walter Scott! :lol:...good observation.

I just got done watching the film version of "Ivanhoe" starring Anthony Andrews and Sam Neil, Olivia Hussey. I loved it, of course! Handsome knights, jousting, chivilry, beautiful ladies and two cute leading men, also the appearance of Robin Hood and his merry men to aid the king....miniseries was a little dated, but still a good film and a lot of fun.

[Scheherazade]

Going once...

[Janine]

ahhh...need more votes for Ivanhoe.....there is still time......

[Niamh]

come on Rob Roy! I'm content now to read it... or listen to it as an audio seeing as reading is an issue.

[Page Turner]

Oh man, my library only had Ivanhoe! Can I change my vote? :confused:

[Niamh]

Oh man, my library only had Ivanhoe! Can I change my vote? :confused:

unfortunately you vote isnt valid because you have less than 50 posts. (get thee to the games forum! :D )

[Janine]

Yes, Page Turner, as Niamh so wisely advised, "Get thee to the games forum!" :lol:

[Nightshade]

Comeone just one more vote for Rob Roy!!!!!


:banana:

[Gladys]

Knowing 'Rob Roy' was winning, I've started reading. As a 15-year-old I had won 'Old Mortality', published a year before 'Rob Roy', as a school prize but found the writing incomprehensible. Now, decades later, I am wondering whether Sir Walter Scott is more accessible. After half a dozen pages the answer was unquestionably, 'No'.

But soldiering on, readability is improving. So, with 'Julian' lost, I cast my vote.

[Jozanny]

I am going to sit this one out; maybe when I can catch up on my life I can do something in fall or winter. I simply have never been very good with cyber reading schedules, though this is a frustrating personal hang up.

[Nightshade]

I am going to sit this one out; maybe when I can catch up on my life I can do something in fall or winter. I simply have never been very good with cyber reading schedules, though this is a frustrating personal hang up.

Hehe, I am no good at reading anything I am supposed to . I can really really want to read a book, the minute I am told I need to my heels begin to drag and the month is over and Im like, now wy did I do that ?
:lol:

[papayahed]

I don't think I've ever finished a book in the month it was scheduled.

[Virgil]

I don't think I've ever finished a book in the month it was scheduled.

Me too. :D

[Nightshade]

So its Rob roy then?
:banana:

[prendrelemick]

So what happens now ?

[Scheherazade]

That's pretty much it.

Every month we vote for different books to see which one would come on top of the poll.

:p