So let’s talk about the Big Read Book, The Heart is a lonely Hunter, by Carson McCullers. There will be a number of book discussions coming up in the coming weeks and I thought I would get a head start on the discussion questions supplied by the Library’s Big Read Reader’s Guide.
The first question mentions that the title of McCullers’ book is taken from a poem by William Sharp. More clearly stated the title of the poem is "The Lonely Hunter," by William Sharp writing as Fiona MacLeod which can be found in the University of Virginia online library here.
The second part of this question is: “How does this title relate to the novel’s five main Characters? Why might McCullers have changed it from her original title, The Mute?
Many of the essays written about McCuller’s novel speak of five main characters; I believe them all to overlook Singer’s friend Antonapoulos as being the sixth main character, for it is his relationship with Singer, and his absence that is the driving force for all of Singer’s actions. When Singer loses the only friend he has, the only friend with whom he can communicate, albeit ineffectively, he is thrown into the same circumstance as the four characters who share their thoughts with him, being a lonely hunter. But in the eyes of these four characters Singer is something less than they are; where in his relationship with Antonapoulos, Singer is the well spoken visitor that is not fully understood.
An excerpt from Sharp’s poem.
“Deep in the heart of Summer, sweet is life to me still,
But my heart is a lonely hunter that hunts on a lonely hill.
Green is that hill and lonely, set far in a shadowy place;
White is the hunter's quarry, a lost-loved human face:”
Sharp’s poem is melancholy; and reflects on the loss of a loved one. McCullers transposes the poem to frame each characters hunt to rationalize their existence and make a mark in society. The title speaks more to the story of the five main characters than if the author had focused primarily on John Singer, “the mute” and encompasses the theme of isolation more effectively.
We'd love to hear your thoughts on this book! Post a comment, or drop in on one of our upcoming book discussions:
Tuesday, April 13th at 11am: Bordeaux Branch
Tuesaday, April 13th at 7pm: Methodist University
Wednesday, April 14th at 10:30am: North Regional Branch
Wednesday, April 14th at 10:30am: Cliffdale Regional Branch
Monday, April 19th at 7pm: Cool Springs Tavern
Tuesday, April 20th at 12:30pm: Charles W. Chesnutt Library
Tuesday, April 20th at 7pm: Spring Lake Branch
Wednesday, April 21st at 11am: Hope Mills Branch
Thursday, April 22nd at 4pm: John L. Throckmorton Library
Happy reading!
--Larry G.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Saturday, March 13, 2010
March New Releases
Hey, there, Booktown!
There's a lot to be excited about in March as far as new releases go. Some of the big names in fiction, such as James Patterson, Lisa Scottoline, and both Carol and Mary Higgins Clark, have new titles hitting stores, as well as a few favorites of mine (Christopher Moore, David Baldacci, and Ted Dekker, just to name a few). Here's a sneak peek of a few titles coming up that you may not know about:
March 16th: The Girl Who Chased the Moon, by Sarah Addison Allen
The bestselling author of "The Sugar Queen" brings us another heartfelt and moving novel. Emily came to Mullaby, North Carolina, hoping to find out more about her mother's life. Why did Dulcie Shelby leave her hometown so suddenly? Why did she vow never to return? However, the moment Emily enters the house where her mother grew up and meets the grandfather she never knew, she realizes that mysteries aren't solved in Mullaby- they're a way of life.
March 23rd: The Creation of Eve, by Lynn Cullen
Fans of historical fiction will love Cullen's tale of royal intrigue and longing. Based on the story of Sofonisba Anguissola, the first renowned female portraitist of the Renaissance, who flees to Italy after a scandal in Michelangelo's workshop. She becomes a lady-in-waiting to King Felipe II's bride. Sofonisba becomes tangled in a love triangle involving the queen, the king, and the king's illegitimate half brother, Don Juan. The Creation of Eve has all the makings of a great novel: scandal, excitement, and history!
March 30th: 31 Bond Street, by Ellen Horan
Horan brings us a high intensity murder mystery set in New York City in the 1850's, when corruption was a way of life. When an errand boy discovers Burdell’s nearly decapitated body in the bedroom of his home at 31 Bond St, there are no witnesses and virtually no clues. With the city up in arms over the vicious killing, District Attorney Abraham Oakey Hall immediately suspects Emma Cunningham, the young widow who has been caring for Burdell’s home in exchange for a marriage proposal. Can Emma prove her innocence and spare herself from the gallows?
Happy reading!!
--Jenn C
There's a lot to be excited about in March as far as new releases go. Some of the big names in fiction, such as James Patterson, Lisa Scottoline, and both Carol and Mary Higgins Clark, have new titles hitting stores, as well as a few favorites of mine (Christopher Moore, David Baldacci, and Ted Dekker, just to name a few). Here's a sneak peek of a few titles coming up that you may not know about:
March 16th: The Girl Who Chased the Moon, by Sarah Addison Allen
The bestselling author of "The Sugar Queen" brings us another heartfelt and moving novel. Emily came to Mullaby, North Carolina, hoping to find out more about her mother's life. Why did Dulcie Shelby leave her hometown so suddenly? Why did she vow never to return? However, the moment Emily enters the house where her mother grew up and meets the grandfather she never knew, she realizes that mysteries aren't solved in Mullaby- they're a way of life.
March 23rd: The Creation of Eve, by Lynn Cullen
Fans of historical fiction will love Cullen's tale of royal intrigue and longing. Based on the story of Sofonisba Anguissola, the first renowned female portraitist of the Renaissance, who flees to Italy after a scandal in Michelangelo's workshop. She becomes a lady-in-waiting to King Felipe II's bride. Sofonisba becomes tangled in a love triangle involving the queen, the king, and the king's illegitimate half brother, Don Juan. The Creation of Eve has all the makings of a great novel: scandal, excitement, and history!
March 30th: 31 Bond Street, by Ellen Horan
Horan brings us a high intensity murder mystery set in New York City in the 1850's, when corruption was a way of life. When an errand boy discovers Burdell’s nearly decapitated body in the bedroom of his home at 31 Bond St, there are no witnesses and virtually no clues. With the city up in arms over the vicious killing, District Attorney Abraham Oakey Hall immediately suspects Emma Cunningham, the young widow who has been caring for Burdell’s home in exchange for a marriage proposal. Can Emma prove her innocence and spare herself from the gallows?
Happy reading!!
--Jenn C
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Family Affair
I've been a fan of Caprice Crane since her first book, "Stupid and Contagious," hit shelves in 2006. Her follow-up, "Forget About It," placed me firmly in her fan club. What I love about Crane is that her characters are perfectly flawed. They bumble through life, as most of us do, with their share of baggage and neurosis, in a way that is both endearing and entirely relatable. I have a hard time reading a book full of perfect characters, who always say the right thing at the right time, and always know how to react in any given situation. I want my love stories to seem as if they might actually last past the last page of the book.
Crane's new release, "Family Affair," has many of the same elements that endeared me to her first two novels. Layla and Brett Foster have been together since...well, forever. They were high school sweethearts who got married shortly after finishing college. Now almost thirty, Brett is struggling with the marriage, feeling like their relationship has gotten stale. Layla has been a part of his family since her mother died in the tenth grade, but lately Brett is beginning to feel as if Layla is more of a sister than a wife. She spends more time cooking with his mother, playing poker with his father, owning a business with his sister, and serving as a confidant to his brother than she does attending his football games (he's the coach). One night at dinner, while Layla is thinking that Brett is going to announce that he wants children, Brett instead announces that he wants a divorce.
Layla is understandably crushed- how could you not be? However, she is determined not to lose both Brett and his family. Over the years, they have come to see her as a part of the family, and she isn't about to lose everything she has simply because her husband no longer wants to be married. Brett becomes increasingly angry and jealous of Layla, especially when he finds that his family (along with most of his friends) have taken her side in this dispute. He becomes absolutely livid when Layla files for joint custody of his family, and becomes determined to push her away by any means necessary.
The insanity that follows Brett's announcement is, in equal parts, both heartbreaking and hysterical. Both Brett and Layla are perfectly aware of how immature they are being, yet seem incapable of rising above their conflicting emotions in order to be the bigger person. "Family Affair" showcases all of the mistakes people make in dealing with loved ones, and how the power of family can overcome (almost) any obstacle. Within Brett and Layla, one can see the answers to the question of what goes wrong in a relationship.
I will admit that the ending is a bit more abrupt and storybook-ish than what seems reasonable for the amount of damage each party has done to the other (after all, Brett DID bring another woman to Christmas with him, knowing Layla would be there. This isn't something that's likely to be easily forgiven). All in all, however, Crane has produced an incredibly realistic, touching, and entertaining story about marriage, family, and love.
--Jenn C.
Crane's new release, "Family Affair," has many of the same elements that endeared me to her first two novels. Layla and Brett Foster have been together since...well, forever. They were high school sweethearts who got married shortly after finishing college. Now almost thirty, Brett is struggling with the marriage, feeling like their relationship has gotten stale. Layla has been a part of his family since her mother died in the tenth grade, but lately Brett is beginning to feel as if Layla is more of a sister than a wife. She spends more time cooking with his mother, playing poker with his father, owning a business with his sister, and serving as a confidant to his brother than she does attending his football games (he's the coach). One night at dinner, while Layla is thinking that Brett is going to announce that he wants children, Brett instead announces that he wants a divorce.
Layla is understandably crushed- how could you not be? However, she is determined not to lose both Brett and his family. Over the years, they have come to see her as a part of the family, and she isn't about to lose everything she has simply because her husband no longer wants to be married. Brett becomes increasingly angry and jealous of Layla, especially when he finds that his family (along with most of his friends) have taken her side in this dispute. He becomes absolutely livid when Layla files for joint custody of his family, and becomes determined to push her away by any means necessary.
The insanity that follows Brett's announcement is, in equal parts, both heartbreaking and hysterical. Both Brett and Layla are perfectly aware of how immature they are being, yet seem incapable of rising above their conflicting emotions in order to be the bigger person. "Family Affair" showcases all of the mistakes people make in dealing with loved ones, and how the power of family can overcome (almost) any obstacle. Within Brett and Layla, one can see the answers to the question of what goes wrong in a relationship.
I will admit that the ending is a bit more abrupt and storybook-ish than what seems reasonable for the amount of damage each party has done to the other (after all, Brett DID bring another woman to Christmas with him, knowing Layla would be there. This isn't something that's likely to be easily forgiven). All in all, however, Crane has produced an incredibly realistic, touching, and entertaining story about marriage, family, and love.
--Jenn C.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Handle With Care
The next four weeks will bring many popular new releases, with highly anticipated titles coming from many of today's top-selling authors. Danielle Steele's "Big Girl" comes out next week, Clive Cussler's "Silent Sea" is set to release March 9th, and Harlan Coben's "Caught" will hit bookshelves on March 23rd. Nonfiction books are also making waves in March, with both Mitt Romney and Karl Rove generating notable buzz about their upcoming memoirs. However, the new book I'm the most excited about is Chelsea Handler's "Chelsea Chelsea Bang Bang."
Handler is a stand-up comedian and the host of the late-night talk show "Chelsea Lately." Her previous two books, "Are You There, Vodka? It's Me, Chelsea" and "My Horizontal Life" were both on the New York Times Bestseller list. Similar to her stand-up act, her books focus on stories from her personal life, which are equally witty, off-kilter, and downright hysterical.
"Chelsea Chelsea Bang Bang" promises to deliver more of what I have come to expect from Handler: more ridiculous stories told from the odd perspective that can only be Chelsea. Nothing is safe from Handler- from Lean Pockets and Sex and the City to Cabbage Patch Dolls. I'm particularly interested in hearing her story of how she once managed to convince her boyfriend that there were Swiss Army Knives in the soles of her $16,000 shoes (that power of persuasion is something every woman should learn!!)
Fans of Celia Rivenbark (author of "Bless Your Heart, Tramp" and "We're Just Like You, Only Prettier") will love Handler's books. Check out a copy of "Chelsea Chelsea Bang Bang," set to release March 9th, but beware- this book will likely cause readers to snort unbecomingly from laughter, so you may consider reading alone!
--Jenn C.
Handler is a stand-up comedian and the host of the late-night talk show "Chelsea Lately." Her previous two books, "Are You There, Vodka? It's Me, Chelsea" and "My Horizontal Life" were both on the New York Times Bestseller list. Similar to her stand-up act, her books focus on stories from her personal life, which are equally witty, off-kilter, and downright hysterical.
"Chelsea Chelsea Bang Bang" promises to deliver more of what I have come to expect from Handler: more ridiculous stories told from the odd perspective that can only be Chelsea. Nothing is safe from Handler- from Lean Pockets and Sex and the City to Cabbage Patch Dolls. I'm particularly interested in hearing her story of how she once managed to convince her boyfriend that there were Swiss Army Knives in the soles of her $16,000 shoes (that power of persuasion is something every woman should learn!!)
Fans of Celia Rivenbark (author of "Bless Your Heart, Tramp" and "We're Just Like You, Only Prettier") will love Handler's books. Check out a copy of "Chelsea Chelsea Bang Bang," set to release March 9th, but beware- this book will likely cause readers to snort unbecomingly from laughter, so you may consider reading alone!
--Jenn C.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Gotham City Murder!
If you are a history buff as I am, I highly recommend The Murder of Helen Jewett: the life and death of a prostitute in nineteenth-century New York. During this time period murder in New York was not as prevalent as you might think, and brothels were a societal norm. Using historical records, news articles, and letters written by the victim to her patrons, author Patricia Cline Cohen provides a thoughtful and in-depth look into the life of one young lady from her childhood in Maine to her brutal death in a New York City brothel. Cohen discusses Helen's migration from Maine to New York, and touches on commerce, the development of communities, and the mingling of the classes in New England. Upon Helen's death, the reader is witness to every circumstance - from the inquest, to the investigation and trial, and the rumor and sensationalism created by the burgeoning field of investigative journalism. Cohen also includes the scandal involved with the murdered prostitute’s clientele and the fact that during her formative years she was in the care of one of Maine's leading families, who afforded her a formal education.
--Larry G.
--Larry G.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Great December Releases
I know what you're thinking: as if you have time to read this month, what with all of the holiday preparation, shopping, and cooking! However, if you can spare a moment to yourself, check out one of these upcoming releases. Trust me, the break will be worth it!
December 7th: Puttering About in a Small Land by Phillip K. Dick
Roger and Virginia Lindhal’s marriage is already on the rocks when they enroll their son in a private school in the mountains of California. When they meet the Bonners, a complicated series of events, emotions, and traumas are released. This story is typical Phillip Dick, with an intense emotional buildup and very detailed characters. You’ll find that you won’t be able to put it down.
December 7th: The Good Son by Russel D. McLean
Looking for a new author? Try this debut by new Scottish writer McLean. Scottish private investigator J. McNee tries to come to terms with his immense personal baggage as he investigates the apparent suicide of Daniel Robertson. This tale of love, betrayal, and loss successfully blends classic mystery styles with a more edgy modern flair.
December 14th: Witch and Wizard by James Patterson
In this gripping dystopian story, 15-year old Wisty and her older brother Whit are thrown in a secret prison with no explanation. While in prison, they discover new and incredible powers, but can they master their skills in time to save themselves- and the world? Patterson delivers another page-turning thriller sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
December 14th: Shades of Grey by Jasper Fforde
In another dystopian world, Eddie Russett has no desire to be anything but completely loyal to the Collective, who rule society through color. When he meets Jane, life as he knew it is shattered as she opens his eyes to the truth behind the “Colortocracy.” Fforde is equal parts humorous, genius, and ridiculous in this new romantic thriller.
Happy reading!!
--Jenn C.
December 7th: Puttering About in a Small Land by Phillip K. Dick
Roger and Virginia Lindhal’s marriage is already on the rocks when they enroll their son in a private school in the mountains of California. When they meet the Bonners, a complicated series of events, emotions, and traumas are released. This story is typical Phillip Dick, with an intense emotional buildup and very detailed characters. You’ll find that you won’t be able to put it down.
December 7th: The Good Son by Russel D. McLean
Looking for a new author? Try this debut by new Scottish writer McLean. Scottish private investigator J. McNee tries to come to terms with his immense personal baggage as he investigates the apparent suicide of Daniel Robertson. This tale of love, betrayal, and loss successfully blends classic mystery styles with a more edgy modern flair.
December 14th: Witch and Wizard by James Patterson
In this gripping dystopian story, 15-year old Wisty and her older brother Whit are thrown in a secret prison with no explanation. While in prison, they discover new and incredible powers, but can they master their skills in time to save themselves- and the world? Patterson delivers another page-turning thriller sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
December 14th: Shades of Grey by Jasper Fforde
In another dystopian world, Eddie Russett has no desire to be anything but completely loyal to the Collective, who rule society through color. When he meets Jane, life as he knew it is shattered as she opens his eyes to the truth behind the “Colortocracy.” Fforde is equal parts humorous, genius, and ridiculous in this new romantic thriller.
Happy reading!!
--Jenn C.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Flash Forward
What would you do if you got a glimpse of your own personal future and it looked bleak? Would you try to change things or accept that the future is unchangeable and make the best of it? In Flash Forward, now an ABC series on Thursday evening which is loosely based on the 1999 novel by Robert J. Sawyer, you will get a chance to see what some have done when faced with that question.
Give the book a try; it is a little more technical than the loosely based series but an interesting novel that makes you think, “What if....?”
--Lois M.
Give the book a try; it is a little more technical than the loosely based series but an interesting novel that makes you think, “What if....?”
--Lois M.
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