What book will you be reading?

[kfahygc]

Just thought I would get some recommendations from other readers. What book will you be bringing on board? I'm planning on taking "Hard Eight" by Janet Evankovich (sp). Do you think I should take two?

Kathleen

[imgoingtodisney]

I brought 1 book with me when I cruised on NCL in Dec. I never got more than a few pages read. I was too busy gazing at the ocean, people watching, resting! (I tend not to read so much when Im away from home)

[prymsu]

I agree with iam goingtodisney. I have taken books before, and the only time I would read is on the flight.

[RellingTwin]

I always take a book or two. Last year while shopping for cruise stuff I picked up one and stuck it in the suitcase, then just before leaving a grabed another book while picking up bevrages. Guess what...they were the same book!LOL!
I don't know what I will be reading this Sept. but always leave any finished books behind for the room host/hostess.I think I read somewhere that there is a crew libary.

[mmouse37]

I also take a book with me and hardly every get to read it, but now that we have sailed on DCL a few times, I feel I do not need to rush to everything and plan on taking some time on Deck 4 for some good reads.

I wanted to bring the book "About a Boy" that the movie was made about. Or, maybe a good "Who dunnit" I like those too!!

Each issue of Porthole Magazine has a section called either "Ship reads" or "Sea Reads" and it lists some good books to bring on a cruise vacation (some are related to the sea, some are not).

MJ

[WDWLVR]

I guess I'm the exception to the rule. I feel like I don't have much time to read at home. When we went on the 7 day I brought a Nora Roberts trilogy and finished two of the books on the cruise. I like to go out on the veranda and read in the morning and also did some reading up by the pool.

Even on our 4 day this past May I just about finished up an entire book just sitting and reading on the veranda.

When we go next May I'll be packing at least two books!

[Mickey4Me]

It just doesn't seem like a vacation unless I pack a couple of "good reads". I'm taking Suzanne's Diary for Nicholas by James Patterson and the latest in Jan Karon's Mitford series of books (can't recall the title at the moment). Great idea about leaving the finished books for the crew and I plan on doing that.

[ilovemky]

took books, they never got unpacked, much too much fun stuff to do, in fact, have to sail again (oh darn!) so we can catch everything we missed, and I will NOT be bringing a book LOL:)

[ducklite]

LOL! I'm basically going on the cruise with one goal. To sit on my verandah and read. I'm taking Tom Clancy--The Bear and the Dragon which I started two years ago at Vero and didn't get to finish, and now need to start again. Also Red Dove, a new book of his which hasn't even hit the stores yet. And just for giggles the latest Clancy Op Center paperback. The goal is to read the Bear and the Dragon on the plane and during the first couple days at WDW, then ship it home with anything we've bought at the World before we cruise. I'll read Red Dove on the ship. And if I finish that, I'll kill the Ops Center book.

BTW--I'm a very fast reader, I read over half of the Bear and the Dragon in two days the last time, so I should be able to do this :)

Anne

[Karel]

My favorite thing was to sit in the atrium/lobby about 11 pm each night and read. I would get some of the pizza and one night I had chocolate covered strawberries - it was really relaxing and peaceful. I love to read but once I get started it's hard to stop, so I don't get anything done at home.

What kind of books do you like? I generally like lighter books with interesting characters and a twist (but not romances). Recently, I enjoyed The Nanny Diaries, Skipping Christmas, books by Jeanne Ray - Julie and Romeo and Skip, Ball, Change. I'm waiting for the next Left Behind book to come out next week. And of course, there's always Harry Potter to reread.

[JimB.]

On my recently completed 7-day cruise, I read "The Girl who Loved Tom Gordon" by Stephen King & "Tales from Margaritaville" by Jimmy Buffet.

I started "The Man Who Flew the Memphis Belle", but kinda'slow it was.

[kfahygc]

I highly recommend the new Jan Karon book "In This Mountain" which is the latest in Mitford Series. I also like Miss Julia speaks her mind by Ann B. Ross. I'm hoping to finish a book or two but if I don't I can still read at home. Deck 4 with a book sounds very good right now.

Kathleen

[queenvic]

"Suzanne's Diary for Nicholas" is a wonderful book. I took "A Bend in the Road" by Nicholas Sparks on the cruise and read every morning on the veranda while the kids slept. I had another book in case I finished the first, but I didn't. :)

[GoofyDonald]

Planning on bringing The Beach House by James Patterson on my August cruise. Right now I'm reading Courting Trouble by Lisa Scottoline and it is really good! My favorite all time book, if you like a mystery - Plum Island by Nelson DeMille.

[mmouse37]

Plum Island was great!!! One of my other favorite books was the Mists of Avalon (all about the time of King Arthur from the women's point of view)....I read that a few years ago before the movie came to TV.


MJ

[Señor Ferrari]

I always take at least 3 books with me on a cruise, one of the ones I'm currently working on (I usually have 3 going at once), and two new ones. I can usually polish off the first one on the flight across country. On sea days, I spend most of my time on deck 10 reading. I also spend most of the Castaway Cay day reading on the beach. Last December, I read Black House by Stephen King and Peter Straub. That one took the better part of the week. I never got to the third book, but I'd hate to be caught without one!

[saturday97]

I always take magazines on trips. They're easy to pack, disposable, and I can read short articles between activites or for a few minutes before bed.

[BeanoC]

I like to pass the time on the flights over and back by reading, but the kids tend to interrupt me every 30 seconds or so!

Last time I managed to get through Grisham's 'The Summons',
and about halfway through King's 'The Girl who Loved Tom Gordon' while out on the verandah.

We sail this year in Oct. and I am hoping for a new Grisham novel by then, or better yet a new Cornwell 'Kay Scarpetta' novel.


Happy Sailing!



'Beano' :cool:

[Mickey4Me]

I also like Miss Julia speaks her mind by Ann B. Ross I read that book last summer at the beach and loved it! I really enjoy Southern writers and Ann Ross has written a couple of good ones.

[daltonsdodisney]

I took Patricia Cornwell's Southern Cross but didn't read it on the ship, only the drive to and from Indiana. I usually take a good book when we do a laid back beach vacation, but I knew there would be so much to do on board and at the ports that I saved my reading for the boring road trip!

[mlshields]

READ?!?!?!?!

Most of us have already cruised with Disney......who has time to read?????:smooth:

[kfahygc]

That's funny. But since this is my first cruise perhaps I have a little pixie dust blurring my thoughts. :D I hope to read and relax especially after 3 days in Disney with a 9 year old. Has anyone read "Sea Glass" by Anita Shreve yet.

Kathleen

[ruvidu]

"Walt Disney - An American Original" by Bob Thomas. It is a biography of Walt Disney providing a lot of insight into his childhood and how he came to be the creator of Mickey Mouse. I picked up my copy while visiting the MK in Dec.

Another I have not seen mentioned is Grisham's "Painted House". Unlike any Grisham before. I really liked it.

I am reading "Beach House" by Patterson now. First 4 chapters are great.

Also, I just discovered Sandra Brown is a great WhoDunIt author as well as a romance author. Look in a used book store for "French Silk" or at Barnes and Noble for "The Alibi". Bet you can't guess WhoDunIt before the last chapter in either book.

I will be taking "Raising The Hunley" by Brian Hicks & Schuyler Kropf. It is about the history of the Confederate Submarine Hunley and all it took to find and recover it. We are members of the Hunley Association and have been to see it in Charleston twice.

"Books and Dogs never let you down"
Russ

[TNErnie]

I am a sports fan so I am going to be reading "Where's Harry?" by Steve Stone--about Harry Caray, the late Cubs announcer--

[Jhondy(210)]

i suggest Enders Game by Orson Scott Card but if you bring that i'd also bring some other books because its a pretty good size book but it goes by really fast cause its really intersting anything by Orson Scott Card is good. Enders Game is a scifi book about a child going off to space to fight a war against these things called buggers. and he has to train and has to leave his family and try to make it on his own at age 6. its really really good even though my summary also is bad.lol Also Enders Shadow is good its just like Enders Game but in the point of view of a child who lived on the street named Bean who gets to go up to space also which has a really great twist to it.

if you don't want a serious of books try Seventh Son which i can't give you much of a summary because i'm only half way through it but its really good so far.

[Michelle]

I have very fond memories of finishing Memoirs of a Geisha while relaxing on a Deck 4 lounge chair on the Magic last year.

I don't get too much time to read but on a cruise I definitely enjoy it. I'm in the middle of the third Harry Potter book now (yes, I'm years behind everyone else) and have two other books just waiting for me to get on an airplane or lay on a lounge chair. :D

I did just finish The Nanny Diaries and it was excellent, a very quick read.

[padisneyfan]

Kathleen,

Just back from the 4 day Wonder and 7 day WDW, I finished Janet Evanovich's High Five, Hot Six, and Seven Up during my vacation. I was tempted to buy Hard Eight at the airport for the flight home, but restained my self as I have a $5 coupon for Borders to use at home. So Friday, I will be off to buy the book. I love to read on vacation and it was so relaxing sitting on the veranda.

I think someone in Hollywood should make Janet's books into a movie.

Enjoy your cruise.

Nancy

[taswira]

I always read during air travel, but seldom on a cruise. There are too many other things to do. Since I can read and watch TV at home, I try <I>not</I> to spend my spare time on a cruise doing those things. However, whether for (photojournalist) work or just my personal journal, I spend a lot of "quiet time" on the verandah <I>writing</I> while watching the ocean. That's a real pleasure for me.

[Tluvs2talk]

I alway's take a few magazine's with me on vacation, and hubby doesn't go anywhere without a book or two. We really enjoy sitting under the life boats reading as people were jogging or walking by.

[kfahygc]

Nancy:

I hope you enjoyed your trip. It sounds as if you got a lot of reading in. I agree - Janet Evanovich's books are great. I remember sitting on a balcony in Myrtle Beach reading and laughing out loud white reading her book. That is where I got hooked on her. I just bought Hard Eight and I'll have a hard time trying not to read it before our cruise.

Thanks everyone for replying. It has been very interesting reading all of your posts.

Kathleen

[Lori1035]

Kathleen, you'll love Hard Eight by Evanovich! I read it yesterday. With just 311 pages it was a really quick read so I would definitely get another one just in case. I own a book store so when I cruised in May I brought along several books. I agree with others that there isn't a lot of time for reading but I did squeeze in at least a couple of chapters a day. You might also try Sue Grafton's alphabet mysteries since you like Janet Evanovich. She's not as funny though. I also agree with everyone that Patterson's "Suzanne's Diary for Nicholas" is the best. It has just been released in trade size paperback which makes it a good deal cheaper. My husband started Diana Gabaldon's "The Fiery Cross" on our cruise. Needless to say, he's still reading on that one. It's the 5th book in the Outlanders series and has about 1300 pages.

Happy Reading!!
Lori

[Fawn]

Lori...the Outlanders series was one of my favorites!! Can't wait to read the new one...can't be long enough for me! :Pinkbounc

[BarbaraB]

I thought I read somewhere that there are books you can check out on the ship. Is this true? Do they have a good selection?

Having 4 year old twins, I haven't had much reading time these past few years. Just about any book will be new for me!!!!

:Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

[ruvidu]

Your best bet is to buy a paperback and carry it with you. At least that was the situation last year.
:p

[Dave_from_Marietta]

I agree with ruvidu... the "library" is a joke! Anyone who cares enough about summer reading to post on this thread will be much better off bringing their own books.

[mmouse37]

When people leave their paperbacks behind on the ship do they get put into the crew or guest library? Would make sense if they did, since the offerings in the library are pretty slim.

MJ

[padisneyfan]

Kathleen and Lori,

I went to Borders today and now have Hard Eight. Even though my vacation is over, I plan to read it this weekend since I now have the laundry caught up. Plus I have teenages who require little from me any more, so have extra time to read over the summer. Having read the previous ones over the past two weeks, I am ready to enjoy and laugh at Stephanie Plum's adventures. We had a nice cruise with sunshine, but we had all the rain at WDW for those 7 days. Hope you have a great time on the cruise. You will love it. My husband and I got a good deal on the 7 day western for Sept 28, so will be going again this year. I'm sending my two sons off to college and going to enjoy the empty nest.

Lori, I might try Sue Grafton's alphabet mysteries just for some more light reading. They might be good for my 7 day cruise. I did pick up Patterson's Suzanne's Diary for Nicholas in paperback. I needed another book in order to use my $5 coupon.

This thread has been great for finding out about some great books that everyone is reading.

Nancy

[SingingMom]

During last year's cruise, I was reading Nicholas Sparks' "Message In a Bottle" and left it in the room. When we returned that evening, our cabin steward had turned down the bed, made a great towel animal, and left my book standing upright next to the lamp on the night table, opened to the page where I had left my bookmark! Talk about "service"!! :D

[ruvidu]

We just went to Cracker Barrel for dinner and I got to looking at their audio books. They have CD and Tape. I told Miss Vivian that I may get one of those to take with me. I could sit by the pool, listen to my book and still not miss a thing going on around me. In case you are not familiar with their book rental program. You purchase the book, $25 - $35, and then drop it off at any Cracker Barrel when you are done. They refund the purchase price minus a small rental amount.

Just an idea.

[mmouse37]

ruvidu....I always wondered if books on tape actually came on CD also. Thanks for the information!! I have often thought that would be a great thing to do for just the reasons you mentioned. Sometimes I get so engrossed in a book I am oblivious to my surroundings. This way I could still see all the fun and excitment!!


MJ

[kfahygc]

My husband, daughter and her cousin were coming back from Cedar Point one year and we had a Nicholas Spark audio book in the cassette player. My husband and I were quite engrossed in the story when all of a sudden we realized that the little 6 year old girls in the back seat were also. Needless to say we had to turn off the book (we never did finish it). Just be careful about who else might be listening:)

I didn't realize that they came in CD's now - that's good news.

Kathleen

[AnnaB]

MMouse37 and GoofyDonald....if you liked Plum Island try the Gold Coast by Nelson DeMille. I am a huge fan of his and this is my favorite by far. I just found an old book written by him and friend of his called Mayday. I want to start it now..but I am saving it for our 11/2 sailing. Also have you tried Daniel Silva? A

This has been a great topic. I love to hear about new books. This is one of my most important decisions when making plans for our cruise. I want so desperatly to find the perfect book. I'm so worried that the book I bring will be a flop. Give me a great story, a comfortable place to read and I am in heaven.

So far the books in the running for my cruise are: MayDay by Nelson DeMille, Night Sins by Tami Hoag, Painted Houses by Grishim...but I still have time, so keep the suggestions coming!

[ruvidu]

AnnaB
Painted House is such an easy read. We both read it during our cruise last year. A great feel for hard time farming in the South.
Russ

[GoofyDonald]

AnnaB - I will have to give Gold Coast a try. Another of DeMille's books that I read was The Lions Game. I really didn't think I would like it but it was the same character from Plum Island so I gave it a try. I could not put it down. It is a really thick book but I breezed through.

[AnnaB]

GoofyDonald - Okay...here is where I have to admit my faults. I forget a book as soon as I complete it...sometimes I can be in the middle of a great book and when I have to remember the story to tell someone...I can't. I think this has to do with how many books I read and having way to many senior moments :). Or I will be in a book store and pick up a book to read when I finally realize..i read this last summer. I know I read the Lions Game b/c I wait for each of his books to be released and then buy them immediatly but I can't remember the story...does it begin with a plane that lands and everyone is dead ?......if so...GREAT BOOK!!!!!

I guess I wouldn't make it as a litterary fan..I would just be able to say...Gosh Love your stuff...can't remember it...but loved it while I was reading it.

...this should give you even more reason to read Gold Coast...I can at least remember the story ( a little of it at least)

[GoofyDonald]

AnnaB - that's the one. Wasn't that the best book. I too sometimes completely forget what a book was about. I'm blaming it on sheer volume because I'm always in the middle of book. Going out tomorrow to get Gold Coast. Thanks for the tip!

[padisneyfan]

Lori1035,

Fininished Hard Eight yesterday. Kathleen, if you are a fast reader you might want to bring another book as it only took mea day to finish this one. Now I guess we have to wait until next June for her next book. Monday I am back to work and the end of my vacation, so not as much time to read. This thread has been great for good books to read. Will have to start to get some of them to use for my 7 day western cruise on 9/28

Nancy

[kfahygc]

I am so glad that all of you have contributed to this thread. It is great to read, read, read! Keep those suggestions coming. I have bought HARD EIGHT and it's sitting on my night stand. I'm hoping to keep it till the end of July but it sure is tempting. I'm finishing up the new Patricia Gafney novel now so it won't be long till I'm searching for a new read.

Kathleen

[Kristaia]

Wow, we could start a fan club.
I absolutely love Stephanie Plum and of course...Grandma Mazur.
I have been listening to the past few books while on the road, and will have to pick up Hard 8 in paper.

I do so agree with the movie comment. I can not believe that these books have not turned into a movie. I can't remember her name, but the younger sister to Dottie(Gena Davis) in A League of Their Own reads the books on tape and is great. How about a leading role!!!
Maybe we should get some royalties for suggesting and pushing these as our best cruise books.

Happy Reading to all
Krista

[AnnaB]

All this talk about Janet Evanovich made me look her up on Amazon. One quick look at her first book got me hooked...I plan on hitting the book store tomorrow. Who knows maybe I will be on Hard Eight by the time of the cruise.

[padisneyfan]

AnnaB,

I no longer have One for the Money or Two for the Dough, but from Three to Get Deadly I have all the rest. So if you really like the books and they are addictive, I can mail them to you. I finished all eight of them in about a month. Just email me nlfike@aol.com.

Nancy

[AnnaB]

PADisneyfan (Nancy)- Thank you ...that is very nice of you!

[tltjet]

I am so glad that I read this thread. I am always looking for new authors to read and Janet Evanovich sounds like a great one. I am going to the library tomorrow and take a look at her books.

When I go on vacation I always bring 3 books. Two new books and one very thick novel that I have already read and haven't read in a long time. That one is just in case I don't like the new ones that I brought with me. I hate to be without a book to read.

Thank for the tips!

[Lori1035]

For all you Evanovich fans out there, there will be a holiday Stephanie Plum release on November 5th. The title is "Visions of Sugar Plums." Check out her website for details. (evanovich.com)
She will also be re-releasing a title written under the name Steffie Hall. She and another lady have rewritten and expanded on the original title "Full House." No Stephanie Plum, but the same type of funny,dysfunctional characters.

BTW, my motto is DEAR. (Drop Everything And Read)

Happy Reading,
Lori

[kfahygc]

Lori - that is great information. I'll be looking forward to the new Stephanie Plum. Thanks again everyone.

Kathleen

[trishy]

We've been in Orlando since 6/21 - I took The Nanny Diaries on vacation with me and finished it in 4days :( my dd12 took The Secret Life of Bees and finished it already, too :( Now we are both "bookless" :( Hubby is ecstatic, but we are bummed out. We're going to look for another at Downtown Disney before we leave for the cruise. I think books are a must! It is soooo relaxing to sit back and read. Hubby doesn't understand, though. :rolleyes:

[padisneyfan]

Lori----Thanks so much for the Stephanie Plum update. I passed that information onto my friends. We thought we had to wait until next June, so we are very happy for the Holiday special.

AnnaB--Just email with your address if you want any of the books.


Trishy---If you don't get a chance to get a book before the cruise, there were books for sale in the one gift shop. You just have to wait for it to open up. They did have alot good titles. Is it still raining @ WDW?

Kathleen---Are you still holding out not reading Hard Eight until the cruise?

[trishy]

We haven't had a good downpour since about 4 p.m. - more is on the way, though. The cms said this has been a lot more for this time of year than usual. It really comes down hard though!

[padisneyfan]

Trishy,

We were there from 6/20-6/27 and in all my years going to WDW, I have never seen it rain so much and so hard. I had to buy a long sleeve denim shirt to stay warm. The only positive thing from all the rain is that the parks weren't crowded. That is why I got so much reading done. Hope the weather clears up and enjoy the cruise. It was sunny and beautiful on our 4 day cruise. I see you are also a DVC member, me too OKW is my home resort.

Stay dry and enjoy your trip.

Nancy

[AnnaB]

I went to Barnes and Noble today and they were sold out of the 1st Janet Evonovich book. No need to worry though..where there is a will there is a way. I just purchase it on Amazon, along with the 2nd one and still couldn't stop so I got a Jonathan Kellerman book called When the bough breaks...anyone read this ? oh...and BTW I still couldn't stop myself in B&N and picked up Tom Brokaw's An Album of Memories.
I am going to have to stop reading this post..otherwise I am going to go broke :)

[kfahygc]

Nancy - I am still holding out. I just started "Miss Julia throws a wedding" by Ann B. Ross (the 3rd in the Miss Julia series). I was really tempted by that bright lime green cover though.:)

Anna I know you will love these books.Be prepared to laugh out loud. I haven't read Jonathan Kellerman so make sure you let us know how it is.

Thanks everyone - this has been a great thread.

Kathleen

[kfahygc]

All of you just returning from the 4th of July cruises. What books did you read? Any patriotic books like "John Adams" or "Founding Brothers"? Any recommendations?

[cinda65]

Just wondering if anyone has finished reading Beach House by James Patterson. I have most of his other books and am really trying to use the library instead of buying. This book, however, is on my "to buy" list.

If anyone has finished reading it, I would love to hear if it was worth buying to keep or should I use the library?

[ruvidu]

It was a good but not great Patterson book.The rich against the working class, quite a bit of Grisham lawyer type stuff. I bought it because we buy all Patterson and Grisham books. It will get you hooked early on and be hard to lay it down. Let us know your opinion after you read it.

[padisneyfan]

Kathleen---I see your cruise is only 21 days away and then you get into the Hard Eight. I really admire your will power not to read it, I couldn't hardl wait to get home to buy it.

AnnaB-- Did you get your One for the Money and Two for the Dough books yet? I had bought Tom Brokaw's book " The Greatest Generation" last year and really enjoyed it. Since my dad was in WWII and I now have a 18yr old and 19yr old sons, it was just unbelievable what those young men went through in WWII. Or for that fact any war.

Since my last post I have finished James Patterson's "Suzanne's Diary for Nicholas" and Judy Deveraux "Summerhouse". It's like I'm still in the vacation mode and the housework is not getting done. Oh well. My friend has Patterson's "Beach House" so am waiting for her to finish that so I can read it next.

Nancy

[AnnaB]

PDisneyFan - no...I'm still waiting for the books. Amazon shipped them US Postal Service. I am keeping my fingers crossed that maybe today :)
I am trying to pick colors for my family room/kitchen/foyer so I am happy that I don't have the book here to call me. I know some women(and men) enjoy decorating...I HATE IT !!!!!!!!!
We have an open plan so alot of the wall are shared..so what ever color you pick for one section has to match the other section. Right now I have picked the wallpaper for the kitchen so now I just have the foyer and family room. My problem is that we have blue counter tops in the kitchen and a blue/tan plaid sectional in the family room....and I don't want to paint it blue or yellow. Not that I have anything against these colors...but for the last 12 years these seem to be the only 2 colors my DH and I have ever used...Aargh ! What does everyone think of ( now don't laugh..I know I just said I don't want to use Blue and Yellow..but what about a blue and yellow plaid wallpaper in the foyer under a chair rail ? Or do you picture plaids in a bedroom ?

[Diz-Me]

The first book I read during our 2002 Wonder cruise was <font color=red>Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone</font color>. I had been intending to read it since it came out and managed to enthrall my son. (I credit JK Rowling with turning my 'video game playing - athletic jock son' into an avid reader!!!)

DS-14 wanted to the see the movie playing on the ship (he was a bit too 'cool' to see it in a local theater and risk being seen there by friends). And I was determined to read the book before I saw the movie. I loved the book and can see why JK Rowling has captured a generation (or two) of readers! And the movie was also wonderful. So often movies made from novels just fall flat compared to the book - but not Harry Potter.

When I finished Harry Potter I moved on to my quest of reading the entire Oprah book club selections and started with 'Where The Heart Is'.

[padisneyfan]

AnnaB,

I like the idea of the blue and yellow plaid wallpaper in the foyer under a chair rail. I have a similiar type of house where all the rooms flow into each other. It does make it difficult. In fact 2 years ago, we redid it and removed the wallpaper and just painted everything cream color. Pretty boring, but since I just got new furniture this winter it worked out ok. I now need to decide on new living room drapes for our huge front window.

I really must do some things this weekend, and I didn't get the Beach House book yet so I don't plan to start any other books till I get that one. I also scrapebook and am behind in that plus have all my pictures developed from our June cruise and WDW.

The weather today is so great that I just want to be outside, so the inside stuff will just have to wait.

Diz-Me Harry Potter movie was playing on my cruise, and would have liked to have seen it but the times always conflicted with other things. I guess I'll just have to get it on video sometime.

Nanc

[kfahygc]

Diz-me - let me know if you read "Down on her knees" (I think that is the title). Normally I love the books Oprah recommends however I didn't get this book. I was so confused by it.

In order to avoid reading "Hard Eight" I sent it home with my mother yesterday and told her to give it back to me right before I start packing for the cruise. Won't be long now.

AnnaB and Nanc - it sounds like you two should go on "trading spaces" ;) I love that show. I have to tackle my kitchen as soon as we get back from Disney. I just don't have the time or energy for it right now.

Thanks everyone - let's keep this thread going.

Kathleen

[dis4me]

Hard Eight was great and worth the wait(although I read it the day it came out).Can't get enough of Ranger and Morelli.Any sugestions on similar authors?

[Diz-Me]

Hi padisneyfan

I was surprised how much I enjoyed the Harry Potter book and movie. I definitely recommend reading the book before seeing the movie!

Hi kfahygc

Nope haven't read sDown on her knees' yet - and I think I will put it at the end of my list now! ;)

[padisneyfan]

Kathleen you are so funny, you gave the book to your mom. That's one way to control reading it.

Can AnnaB and me just do "Trade Places" with a character at Disney and not have to do alot of work. I enjoy watching that show also. Those people have more energy than me.

dis4me So who would you recommend for the movie to play Ranger and Morelli?

Nancy

[AnnaB]

I agree with PADisneyFan lets go to Disney...That's why I hate decorating...I hate the work! I just want to be rich enough to hire someone to come in and make my house look beautiful :) !

[melindaandrob]

You will LOVE Hard Eight.....I read it in a day :eek: I think the book you have mentioned is 'Fall on Your Knees' (Anne-Marie McDonald.) I didn't enjoy it. Out of all the Oprah picks my favourites were 'Stones from the River' (author ?), 'I Know this Much is True' (Wally Lamb), and 'The Poisonwood Bible' (Barbara Kingsolver)

So many books, so little time!!!

[kfahygc]

Melinda -

You are right it was "Fall on your knees". Did you understand it?

Do you have any books that you are planning on taking on your trip? Are you saving any for later?

Anna and Nancy - let's all trade places at Disney - that sounds like a great idea. I only have 3 weeks to go = can't wait.

I'm going to start reading"Seabiscuit" today. I'm not sure if if is any good but I'll let you know.

Kathleen

[andicat]

I'm going to take "Life is an Attitude - How to Grow Forever Better" by Dottie Billington. Taswira turned me on to it and I've read it a few times but it is so GREAT and thought provoking. The chapters are short and it's the kind of book you want to read again and again. If you haven't read it check it out because I promise you will love it and it's easy to carry too. It's not a novel but it's an incredible book.

[padisneyfan]

I just love all these book selections. I am going to have to start my collection for my 9/28 cruise. Those sea days will be great for catching up on all these books.

Southern PA had the smoke from the forest fire in Quebec today, it would have been a good day to sit in the house and read However, I restrained my self from starting any new books since I am holding out for my friend to finish Beach House.

Maybe we can be characters at Disney who read stories to the children. I don't think there are any currently doing that so we could start a new job description.

Nancy

[AnnaB]

Since I have been getting such great book ideas for the cruise I decided to read one of the books I have been saving. I figure as long as this forum goes I will have an unlimited supply. The book I read was Night Sins by Tami Hoag. I would give it a 7 out of 10.
Quick read and good story. I would recomend it.

[ruvidu]

I have just finished "Up Country" by Nelson Demille. A story about a Army detective going back to modern day Viet Nam to investigate a murder that happened 30+ years before. A great read for any Nam vets. This is the same character portrayed by John Travolta in "The General's Daughter".

I am presently reading "Ghost Soilders"by Hampton Sides. It is a true story about the rescue of WWII POWs from the Phillippines. Great so far.

[AnnaB]

Ruvidu- Great book wasn't it. While I was reading that I was also reading Harry Potter with my son. I knew I had to pick just one, when I was settling in to read and started to confuse the stories. All of a sudden Harry Potter was on a motorcycle in Vietnam with an owl. :). Needless to say I then focused on just ONE book :)

Did you get Gold Coast yet ?

[ruvidu]

Being a Nam Vet, USN aboard the "USS Coral Sea" I was reluctant to read it thinking it may have glossed over a time in our history we wish to forget. I was amazed at what I learned and I really would like to see the movie made with John Travolta riding that motorcycle with Meg Ryan behind him.
My son and I take turns buying the books and then share them. I have already bought and loaned him Sin Killer by McMurtry and Beach House by Patterson. I hope he buys Gold Coast next.
We've got good taste in books don't we.
Russ

[AnnaB]

Russ,
I was born in '66 therefore too young to have memories of the war but I am intered in knowing when you read a novel with a storyline based upon Vietnam do you enjoy it or does it bring back too many memories ? Is it b/c Demille was a vietnam vet he can write the stories while still staying true to his fellow vets?
AnnaB

[ruvidu]

First, let me say that I was on an aircraft carrier stationed in the South China Sea. My life was not in real danger and I got to go into a port every 30-35 days. I got to take a shower and change into clean clothes every night so I did not experience the real war the way the folks Incounty did. I did loose some friends in that stupid war and I think Demille brought out how stupid it was. I can remember a lot of the news stories from his descriptions in the book. Yes, I can read a book or see a movie about Nam and do so without prejudice now. I think my whole attitude about Nam, that time in our country's history and the roll I played came to rest when I visited "The Wall" about 8 years ago. I encourage every citizen of this country to go to DC and stand there and try to read the names of the young men who died in that war. I think Demille still holds some grudges because of the way he depicted the agencies that sent the character into Nam for the third time.
I respect Demille for the way he told this story and for the fact that he lived it by visiting the new Nam before hand.
Before ending this, let me tell you what my son; born 1969, the day after I got home from Nam; did for me. We live in a small town here in upstate SC. Some local folks got together and built a vet's memorial near the center of town. All of the local landscapers heard about it and donated time and products to make it a beautiful park with a walk way of bricks. On those bricks are the names of the veterans of our town. Anyone can purchase a brick with a name and service info printed on it. My son bought me one and gave it to me two years ago for Father's Day. It was like he was saying he was proud of what I had done as little as it was.
On a lighter side, I graduated from high school the year you were born.

Russ

[AnnaB]

The park sounds lovely. I'm glad your town recognizes what these veterans ( including you ) gave to our country. We live in NJ and go visit Washington DC whenever we have guest from England over ( my DH is English). The first time I went after the wall was built was about 4 years ago. I wondered how I would react to the Wall since it was not "my war" nor did I lose anyone in it. I was shocked at how moved I was. Tears came so easy when you realize how many were lost. It still amazes me how personal the Wall is, I guess b/c of all the momentos which are left beside it. During our last visit we went to the Smithsonian which had an exhibit, i think called The Wall . Anyway it was a collection of all the items which have been left. Even my inlaws from England were crying. I'm glad your son recognizes what a great thing you did in serving your counrty. You may think that being onboard the aircraft carrier you were less involved...I don't. I thank you!
Anna B

[ruvidu]

for your kind words.

I too have seen the collection at the Smithsonian. We were amazed at the collection of items.
I walked outside after writting a little while ago. I got to thinking about two of my neighbors. One came back from Nam an alcoholic and the other came back with a large metal plate in his head. Both are flying our flag and are proud of what they did at the time. Beside them I did nothing.

[perdidobay]

The guys that made it back, never would have if it hadn't been for you and the thousands of others doing their job, no matter how big or small. I salute you...thank you for your service to this country:D

PS. I agree that everyone in America should visit the wall and the Smithsonian wall exhibit.

[Kristaia]

Hmmmmm...

Ranger and Morelli.....

How about Ving Rhames(sp?) for Ranger and John Travolta for Morelli? Hmmm, don't know about those.
We need a great, sexy, Italian guy for Morelli. and a really cooool, big, buff guy for Ranger.
What do you think?
Krista

[Lori1035]

Hey ya'll, check out Evanovich's website where there is a thread going about which actors should be in the movie.

Lori

[padisneyfan]

Russ,

Since you and I are close in age, I having graduated in 1967 and remember well the Viet Nam War. It was a sad time for our country and looking back on it what lack of support we gave to all of you who were serving our country. As the years have passed and we as baby boomers have aged and have come to terms with what all occurred during that time, the wounds from the past have slowly healed. The Wall has helped to heal those wounds and made all of us aware and appreciate the sacrifices all veterans have made to keep our country free. Hopefully the WWII memorial will completed to honor that generation so that they can still be able to visit it. What a great thing your son did for you.

Nancy

[padisneyfan]

I checked out the web site. "The Rock" would be great as Ranger, it certainly has the body for the part. I guess I'll have to watch WWF to find out who Lance Storm is.

Nancy

[Kristaia]

Thanks for hooking me onto the website.
My choices were on there, but not the favorites.
no, no Rock, no wrestlers, more CLASS....
This is so fun, don't stop the run...
Anyone read all of the "cat" books...Lillian Braun, talk about fast reads, take 2-3 with you.
Krista

[ruvidu]

If the rest of you avid readers are like me, you love a book sale. I just got an email from Barnes and Noble that their 2002 books are discounted 30% plus free shipping if you purchase 2. I checked it out and these prices seem lower than our local Sams Club. Just thought I would share.

http://barnesandnoble.com/ Click on the sale banner.

Russ

[dis4me]

Nancy and Krista
My original thought was a young sly stallone not sure who else could play ranger maybe antonio banderas if he buffed up more,
Morell maybe leo dicaprio or tom cruise. I think
I will play steph as I could just die to get my hands on them.After Hard ate yhough I am definately leaning towards Ranger,Greandma mazur would have to be the mother from golden girls not sure of her name

[kfahygc]

I know this will sound like a strange choice but I'm in the middle of reading "Seabiscuit" (you know the horse) and it is really good. Tells about life in the 30's and lives of the horse, trainer, jockey and owner. Quite interesting.

Okay my 2 cents about ranger. I think a martinez would be great. Just my opinion.

Won't be long till I get Hard Eight back and then on to the cruise.

Kathleen;)

[dis4me]

Hey Kathleen is A martinez the one who was on Santa Barbara. If it is I agree. He is HOT

[padisneyfan]

Russ Thanks for the update on the book sale at Barnes and Noble.

I agree that "We need a great, sexy, Italian guy for Morelli. and a really cooool, big, buff guy for Ranger." With all those actors out there you would think we could find ones to fit those descriptions. Estelle Getty for Grandma, she was the mother on Golden Girls. I'll pass on being Steph, I don't think I have the energy to keep up as her. I'm still undecided who she should end up with either Joe or Ranger.

AnnaB Since you just started the series you will find the relationships between Steph, Joe and Ranger heat up with each book.

Nancy

[amcanzo]

Oooh books! I love reading so I hope ya'll don't mind if I butt in on your thread....I just finished reading Beach House - enjoyed it, easy read. I LOVE Jonathon Kellerman books - his main character, Dr Alex Delaware gets more intriguing with each book(IMHO) I was planning on taking some magazines with me, but now I might have to go buy some of these great sounding books!
:cool:

Ann

[padisneyfan]

Ann,

Welcome aboard to our book thread. We are always looking for good books to read. I'm still waiting and waiting for my friend to give me Beach House. Hopefully, soon.

Nancy

[kfahygc]

diz4me - yes he was cruz on Santa Barbara. I just think he is great.

Ann - thanks for joining us. I haven't read anything by Kellerman yet but with these suggestions I think I'll start. Which one should I start with?

Thanks everyone - Only 2 weeks to go before we head to Disney!

Kathleen

[Lori1035]

Kathleen, the first Jonathan Kellerman novel in the Alex Delaware series is When the Bough Breaks. I haven't read anything of his yet, but he is a very popular author in my bookstore. His wife Faye Kellerman is just as popular.

Lori

[amcanzo]

Kathleen,

I'm pretty sure that When the Bough Breaks is the first one of the series. I love books that follow the same character. Faye Kellerman's books are really good too....Her books follow a couple that is married - he is a LAPD Detective and his soon to be wife is Jewish - he solves murders and it goes into their personal lives. My description does not make it sound very interesting, but it really is! You can find her older books at the library -
The Ritual Bath and Sacred and Profane



Ann:smooth:

[kfahygc]

mmouse37 - I just finished About A Boy. It was okay not great.

We leave a week from this coming Thursday so I guess I'll have to get my Hard Eight book back from my mother. She called the day after I gave it to her and was gushing about how great it was. Can't wait.

Kathleen;)

[AnnaB]

I just finished When the Bough Breaks by Kellerman. It was very good. I would score it at 9 out of 10. I am now on the 2nd Evanovich book-two for the dough and thanks to PADisneyFan I now have the rest of the series. I Absolutley LOVE these books. ( I know I know..everyone said I would! :) )

It looks as if we may have to postpone our cruise ( yet again) due to my DH job. I hope you won't mind if I still lurk on this forum. It has been fantastic. Great People and Great Books. Thanks Everyone !

[kfahygc]

Just finished "Sea Glass" by Anita Shreve. It was very good. I leave for Disney in 4 days so I think it's safe to go get "Hard Eight" from my mothers. Getting Excited.

Kathleen

[rae519]

What book do I bring?

What ever the latest Ann Rule, Sidney Sheldon or Clive Cussler is! Great for the plane ride down and back, sitting on the verandah waiting for the family to wake up, ----just so wonderful to see the ocean and read a good book!

I also copy pages from books about the ports or WDW that I want to have with me (rather than lug those books around).

Rae

[padisneyfan]

Kathleen,

You still had time to read at home with getting reading for you trip. Good for you. Now besure not to peak at Hard Eight until you get on that cruise. LOL

Hi Rae from one of your fellow 9/28 crusiers. Maybe we can exchange books during the cruise.

Anna B and I think Ving Rhames for Ranger. We are now considering the girls who played Caroline in the City for Steph. We sure having trouble casting these parts for the movie.


Enjoy your trip Kathleen and will be anxious to hear from your when you return.

Nancy

[dis4me]

Nancy good call on Steph She would be perfect.Not sure who the guy you chose for Ranger is though.What was he in.
Kathleen happy reading!!Have a great cruise.
BTW I just finished Suzanne's diary fir Nicholas Great Book Thanks to whoever reccommended it.
Anyone know when Janet's #9 will come out?I hope in time for my Nov cruise.

[padisneyfan]

dis4me,

What made me think of her for Steph as you is in a new show on livetime TV that starts tonight. She is in a serious role, which doesn't seem to fit.

AnnaB is the one who suggested Ving Rhames. He was in Mission Impossible with Tom Cruise. You can see him in a commerical for Lincoln Towncar. You think he is being fitted for a suit but it is a car. He has a great body. We still need someone for Morelli.

Wasn't Suzanne's Diary to Nicholas great, but sad. Very fast reading. I read it in an afternoon.

Nancy

[rae519]

Nancy - ever get the feeling that there is "a whole bunch of us on the 9/28/02 Magic!!!!!!" WOW! I can't wait!

Have you ever read Bertrice Small? Erotic historical romance novels?

Right now I'm on Clive Cussler's Aztec Treasure.

9 1/2 weeks to go til our cruise!

Rae

[AnnaB]

Ruvidu - I was just visitng my cousin yesterday and she is reading a book I gave her husband last year. I had forgotten all about this book but I after she mentioned it..I knew it was for you. It's called Term Limits by Vince Flynn. GREAT BOOK! I really enjoyed this one. You have to get it! I know you will love it.

PADISNEY - As soon as my cousin is done with it ..it's coming your way. :)

All the Janet Evanovich fans...Thank you Thank You Thank you. You have introduced me to some fantastic books. I can't say how much I love them. I purchased the 1st 2 books and then PADISNEYFAN was kind enough to send me the rest of the series.
I can't put them down. I just finsihed 3 to get deadly and I plan on reading the 4th. The rest of the series is going on the cruise with me.

[DVCindy]

Hi all -

I have followed this thread and am now dying to try the Janet Evanovich books ... but I have a question. Do they need to be read in order for maximum enjoyment ? I went Barnes & Noble.com to check out the summer specials and the newer ones are so cheap !!!

Should I really read them in order ?

Thanks ;) Cindy

[kfahygc]

Cindy:

I read book number 3 first and that's what got me hooked. Went back and reread the first 2. I would suggest reading them in order to appreciate the series.

Anna:

Good luck with holding out for the rest of the books on the cruise. I have had a hard time holding out on Hard Eight. I leave early Thursday morning and I have yet to get the book back from my Mom. I'm afraid I'll start reading the minute I get it back.

Have a great day everyone.

Kathleen

[Kristaia]

Ving has always been MY choice for Ranger, how fun would he be.
J.Evanovich's website has an on-going poll for stars that is fun.
I feel I am getting great willpower from this board, I have passed up buying Hard 8 THREE TIMES...
Happy summer reading to you all.
Krista

[AnnaB]

DVCindy - I would recommend reading them in order. It is not a necessity..but there are little things that a refered to later on in the series.

kfahygc - You are too funny! When is mom going to give you the book ? You might have to give it to your DH to hold onto until you reach the ship.

Kristaia- What is the namd of the website ? I would love to see some of the suggestions for Morrelli. What do you think of PADIsney's suggestion for Stephanie ?

[Kristaia]

I think padisney's idea is good, but would like to see Lori ?. The one who reads her books on tape. She was Geena Davis' little sister in A League of Their Own. I think the Caroline in the City gal is a little fluffy. Need a raspier voice or something....Oh, unless you mean the dark haired one, I never thought of that...Hmmm.

The website is www.evanovich.com. It is a real hoot.

[AnnaB]

Kristaia - I like the idea of the other girl from Caroline..She would be good. Looks as if the front runner is Sandra Bullock. It was interesting to see how everyone perceives what the characters should look like. Thanks for the link :)

[padisneyfan]

DVCindy--I also would recommend reading them in order. As Anna B said there are little things that are referred to later in the series. Plus it is fun to watch the relationship grow between Steph, Ranger and Morelli.

Kristaia--Actually the dark haired one might be better. I saw on the Evanovich web page that Sandra Bullock was the first choice. I initally did think that, but have since changed my mind.

Anna B---Did you check her book tour schedule? She was right there in Trenton in June. If only you had know about these books then. So you think you can hold out reading those other books before your cruise. If not I now have Hard Eight back from my friend and can be like Kathleen's mother and hold on to it until you are ready to leave for your cruise and then send it to you.

This thread has been so much fun.

Kathleen If I don't get to talk to you again, enjoy your vacation and let us know how you liked Hard Eight.

Nancy

[AnnaB]

Nancy- Who knows..maybe I'll have to send the other 3 back for you to hold until my cruise :) I didn't notice she was in Trenton. Story of my life..dollar short and day late :)

Kathleen - have a great time on your cruise and thanks for starting such a great thread. I really have met some nice people and found some great books.

[kfahygc]

Let's see how much willpower I have. I just got the book back from my mother. :)

While I was out I picked up Milk Glass Moon by Adriana Trigiani. It's the third novel. Her first one "Big Stone Gap", her second is Cherry Holler. Excellent books.

Have a great week.

Kathleen

[twinmom1292]

While at home I like to read something that works my brain. But on vacation I've got to read something with spice. You know, something to bring spark to my imagination for when the kids are with their Grandparents. Even though this is a family vacation - you can't have a family without a happy husband & wife!!!!!!:D

Beth

[kfahygc]

AMEN! Surreail ressie here I come.

Kathleen

[kfahygc]

Well I'm back and you are not going to believe it. I finished a book that I started right before we left but was only able to start Hard Eight on the way home! I haven't finished it yet (still doing laundry) but will soon because it is terrific. I just love Grandma Mazur. Keep in touch!

Kathleen

[ellyjenn]

Isnt there and onboard library for guests too? Im still undecided about taking a book....:bounce:

[cinda65]

I didn't see anything in the library that would keep me happily reading. Of course that's been two years ago! I know in October I will be packing at least 2 books.

[kfahygc]

I finished "Hard Eight" last night and it was great. Can't wait for the next adventure to begin. I had read "On Mystic Lake" by Kristen Hannah and loved it. I can't wait to read more of her books (I'm like that - if I find an author I like then I tend to read all of their books).

Getting ready to start a new novel by Fern Michaels - the second in the Kentucky horse series.

Good reading to all of you.

Kathleen

[queenvic]

OK, all you Stephanie Plum fans...After reading all of your comments I went out and bought the 'Three Plums in One' book, which contains the first 3 books. Now, thanks to you, I'M HOOKED! I've almost finished Three To Get Deadly so I'll be in search of #4 - 8 really soon (maybe this weekend).

Thanks for the tip and happy reading. :)

[padisneyfan]

Kathleen--So how was the WDW vacation and cruise. You must have been kept busy since you couldn't get to Hard Eight on the cruise.

Beth--Someone at work told me that Stephen Collins (the father on 7th Heaven) also writes some of those spicey books. Has anyone read of them? For what people have told me they may be just what you are looking for on your cruise.

Queenvic--- You can't say you weren't warned about the Stephanie Plum addicion. The nice thing is you still can read 4-8, the rest of us have to wait for the Holiday version to come out in November:D

Did anyone see the special on Bounty Hunters on Thursday night on TLC? It was very interesting about how dangerous the job really is.

On final note, yesterday at work I found a candidate for Ranger. This guy is a guard at the prison and was with one of my patients from the prison. Both myself and my coworker agree he could be Ranger. Nice way to end the work week.

Keep on reading

Nancy

[AnnaB]

I think it is time someone let Janet Evanovich in on this thread. She would be thrilled to know how many new fans have been created. I personally decided to hold off on 5 and wait for my cruise.... that is until I went away this weekend and now I'm 1/2 way thru it :).

I told PADISNEYFAN that I thought of a wonderful Morelli. THe fireman from 3rd watch...not sure of his name but he plays the fireman who is divorced from the paramedic. MMMM he is a good looking boy !

I also took a quick glance at Suzanne's Diary for Nicholas. It looks like good...but I am a bit concerned that it will be too much of a tear jerker. What do you all think ?

[kfahygc]

Nancy: the trip was great. Normally when we go on vacation at the beach my husband and I look at each other at the end of the week and say "gosh didn't we just get here". But on this vacation it seemed longer. It might have been the breakup of the week - 3 day WDW 4 day Cruise - or the fact that I didn't have to cook the whole week. If we had to do it again I would not do both - WDW in 3 days was exhausting.

Highlight of WDW was Animal Kingdon (our first time), Rainforest Cafe (I loved it) and watching fireworks while riding the Big Thunder Railway.

On the cruise I did the Absolute Face & Body (wonderful), played Bingo (fun), Swam with dolphins (highlight), by DH and DD did parasailing on Castaway, we snorkeled, we did the banana boat, saw Disney Dreams (not to be missed), Who wants to be a mousekateer (fun), ate, ate, ate, shopped, shopped shopped and collapsed in bed early every evening. It was great.

Wish I could afford to take another one soon. We are getting a german exchange student in a couple of weeks so I'm going to be busy cleaning and getting her room ready. But I hope to recuperate soon.

I'm still reading.:D

Kathleen

[disneyholic family]

i never had time to read....of course we were only on the 3 day, but i doubt i'd have time on the 4 or 7 day either......too much else to do....and when i sat on the verandah i just enjoyed looking out and daydreaming....
call me strange....