The House on First Street: Part 2 Questions

Interesting questions to finish up the book...I'm excited to hear what you guys think!

Questions:

From the first go around it seems there was a general negative feeling towards the author. Do you feel any guilt for criticizing an author who was brave enough to put part of her life in writing for the world to see?

What surprised you the most about the details of the aftermath of Katrina?

Did it surprise you how much money Julia spent on food for the relief workers?

After reading about Julia's acts of service and coverage of Katrina in the second half of the book, has your opinion of her changed?

Write your posts with your responses and link up!

First of all, it looks like Blogger ate my linky tool that is on last week's post. With all the trouble they've been having, I think it somehow disappeared? Not sure...either way, I'm putting it back on there and I'd love for you to link up if you answered last week's questions.

Now onto this week's questions!

Please leave a comment with a question or two and I'll add it to tomorrow's post. Hopefully you're closer to being done with the book than I am. I have some reading to catch up on tonight!

The House on First Street: Week 1 Questions

I know I said I'd post Monday, and now it's Tuesday. Oops! Here are the questions we have for this week. As always feel free to respond to them all or just the ones that you want to answer.

Happy Reading!

1. Have you visited New Orleans before? Do you think a visit to the city is necessary to connect to this book?

2. What are your thoughts on Julia's writing style? Do you like the way she tells stories?

3. To me Julia took a laid back approach to the evacuation warnings and even devastation. What was your reaction to her approach? How do you think you would have handled a flood of such proportions?

4. Julia instantly was solicited by her editors to do pieces on the disaster. Do you think she gave an accurate portrayal?

The House on First Street: Submit Your Question!

Are you all enjoying the first half of this book?

I'd love to have some question from you all to post on Monday. Please leave a comment and I'll include your question on Monday's post!

The House on First Street Reading Schedule

Hopefully you've picked up your copy of The House on First Street. If not, you still have time!

We'll be meeting back up next Monday to have our first discussion. I'll try to post Saturday to gather some questions from you guys, so jot down any ideas or questions you have while reading!

Next Monday (May 9) we'll discuss Chapters 1-8, and the following Monday (May 16) we'll discuss Chapters 9-the Epilogue. Can't wait to see chat with you all next week!

The House on First Street

Hi Book Clubbers!

Time to start our third book of the year! If you haven't already, go get your copy of The House on First Street. We'll be posting a reading schedule on Monday!


Quick book synopsis, stolen from Amazon:

"Julia Reed went to New Orleans in 1991 to cover the reelection of former (and currently incarcerated) governor Edwin Edwards. Seduced by the city's sauntering pace, its rich flavors and exotic atmosphere, she was never entirely able to leave again. After almost fifteen years of living like a vagabond on her reporter's schedule, she got married and bought a house in the historic Garden District. Four weeks after she moved in, Hurricane Katrina struck.

With her house as the center of her own personal storm as well as the ever-evolving stage set for her new life as an upstanding citizen, Reed traces the fates of all who enter to wine, dine (at her table for twenty-four), tear down walls, install fixtures, throw fits and generally leave their mark on the house on First Street. There's Antoine, Reed's beloved homeless handyman with an unfortunate habit of landing in jail; JoAnn Clevenger, the Auntie Mame—like restaurateur who got her start mixing drinks for Dizzy Gillespie and selling flowers from a cart; Eddie, the supremely laid-back contractor with Hollywood ambitions; and, with the arrival of Katrina, the boys from the Oklahoma National Guard, fleets of door-kicking animal rescuers and the self-appointed (and occasionally naked) neighborhood watchman. Finally, there's the literally clueless detective who investigates the robbery in which the first draft of this book was stolen. Through it all, Reed discovers there really is no place like home.

Rich with sumptuous details and with the author's trademark humor well in the fore, The House on First Street is the chronicle of a remarkable and often hilarious homecoming, as well as a thoroughly original tribute to our country's most original city."

We hope you'll join us. See you Monday!

Rachel's Response to Part 3

I know, I know, I'm about 2 weeks late and posting, but I finished this past week and I wanted to share my thoughts! Better late than never, right??

Erin asked...

Ree faced many changes and challenges in her first year of marriage with the separation and divorce of her parents, marriage, life on the ranch, and pregnancy. How would you have coped with so many changes at once?

I would have been a basket case. I have a hard time with change, and when you throw in that many at one time, I would have felt like I was drowning. While reading I was actually surprised by how well she managed it all. I hope I never find myself in that position!

Jessica asked...

Did you feel the third part of the book was rushed compared to Part I and Part II?

A little bit. It seemed like she was trying to squeeze it all in. I would have loved for her to have gone more in depth about her pregnancy and the postpartum blues she wet through, but I can also understand that those were "harder" places in her life compared to her dating and engagement to MM.

Stephanie asked...

So many "bad things" happened on Ree and Marlboro Man's honeymoon. Did you have anything like that happen to you? How did you handle it?

No! Nothing like her experience, at least. When we took our trip to Europe last year (not a honeymoon), our luggage was lost on the way there and then again coming home. That had me so upset. I can't imagine having bad things happening on my honeymoon!

Rocky Mountain Wife asked...

One of my biggest wondering is how Ree's parents feel about how much of the book she spends talking about their impending break-up, and eventual divorce. She then is very blatant about how frustrated and sad she was with her mom. How do you think her parents feel at their portrayal in her book?

You know, I was kind of wondering this myself. I am sure it was hard for them to read this. Hearing your daughter's thoughts on your divorce must be heart wrenching. But I understood why she put it in there. It was a major issue in her life while dating, planning a wedding, and her first months as a newlywed. It wouldn't have been easy to deal with,

MC asked...

Did you like the ending to the book? What more would you have liked to know about Ree and Marlboro Man's relationship?

I liked the ending. I would have loved to have learned more about the days when she was raising two babies, but I was pleased with how it ended.

Natalie asked...

If you read The Pioneer Woman's blog before reading this book, what have you learned about her? How did the book compare to her typical blog posts? If you didn't read her blog, will you now?

I can't really say I learned about her, because when I discovered her blog back in 07, I started reading the Black Heels section on there. As long as I read her other blog posts, I was also reading her updates to her love story, so I guess in my mind they were always intertwined. Hope that makes sense.

Part Three Questions Posted!

Erin asked...

Erin asked...

Ree faced many changes and challenges in her first year of marriage with the separation and divorce of her parents, marriage, life on the ranch, and pregnancy. How would you have coped with so many changes at once?

Jessica asked...

Did you feel the third part of the book was rushed compared to Part I and Part II?

Stephanie asked...

So many "bad things" happened on Ree and Marlboro Man's honeymoon. Did you have anything like that happen to you? How did you handle it?

Rocky Mountain Wife asked...

One of my biggest wondering is how Ree's parents feel about how much of the book she spends talking about their impending break-up, and eventual divorce. She then is very blatant about how frustrated and sad she was with her mom. How do you think her parents feel at their portrayal in her book?

Another question: If you are married, did your first year of marriage contain many ups and downs as Ree's had? We're just about to finish our first year of marriage, and we've certainly had ups and downs-and I wonder if this is typical for everyone?

MC asked...

Did you like the ending to the book? What more would you have liked to know about Ree and Marlboro Man's relationship?

Natalie asked...

If you read The Pioneer Woman's blog before reading this book, what have you learned about her? How did the book compare to her typical blog posts? If you didn't read her blog, will you now?

Post Your Questions for Part Three!

We are all probably on the final pages on Black Heels to Tractor Wheels. I have loved this book so much.

Take just a second a leave a question in the comments sections for us to discuss for Part Three.

I hope everyone is having a great weekend!

Part Two Discussion Questions

Hope you've enjoyed part 2 as much as we have! Thanks to those of you who shared your questions! Feel free to answer them all or only the ones you feel compelled to answer. We can't wait to hear your thoughts.

From Samantha:

What did you think of Marlboro Man's proposal? How would you feel if you were proposed to like that?

She wrote a lot about never riding in a pickup truck before and how she used to judge girls who rode in the middle. After being with Marlboro Man she felt differently and actually wanted to ride in the middle. How do you feel about that? Have you ever judged somebody and then after learning more, regret that you had judged them?

From mcbracey:

After their first fight, did it make you question if Marlboro man was the one to give up everything for, or was Ree willing to do it because it was easy when everything else seemed hard?

Do you wonder what Ree is doing all day? How is she financially making it? Is she really just waiting around all day to meet up with Marlboro man at night?

Would you let your now husband duck out of your reception to watch a football game?

From Erin:

So many embarrassing things have happened to Ree in front of Marlboro Man. What is the most embarrassing story that comes to mind when you think of embarrassing things that have happened to you in front of a significant other?

How would you have reacted to being around for the prairie fire?

From Rachel:

There have been so many funny little stories along the way in the book. What has been your favorite? Any favorite lines?

Send In Your Questions!

Hey book clubbers!

I have already finished Part Two and can't wait to start Part Three of Black Heels to Tractor Wheels!

When you finish Part Two, go ahead and leave a comment here with some questions you'd like the book club to answer next week. This will give us a chance to get them sorted and posted by Monday morning.

The questions to Part One were so much fun and we had some great discussion, so I can't wait to see what we talk about after reading Part Two!

Erin's Response to Part One

I am absolutely loving reading this book. And it is so much fun to me to have so much participation from the entire book club. I hope that with Part Two even more readers will ask questions to generate discussion.


From Rachel:

Has this book brought you back to the beginning of a romantic relationship in your life?

Definitely! There is something so exciting about a brand new relationship when you can't wait to talk to the person and every single phone conversation feels like it could last for hours and you would never get tired of talking. I can remember when dating Todd, every single email, phone call, date, movie, dinner, or even just seeing each other in passing was so special and new!

From Erin:

What surprised you about Ree? If this was your first time reading about her background, did anything surprise you about her "beginnings?"

I was surprised by a lot. I knew that she was a "city girl" but I didn't know she had been in Los Angeles or anything else about her background.

From Nina:
While reading Part I of Black Heels, did you find yourself comparing your own love life/story to Ree's?

Yes. I had big hopes of moving to Chicago at one point in my life and those plans changed because a very special man came into my life.

Would you have handled ex-boyfriend (J) the same way or differently than Ree did?

I think I would have been more forceful or gone out to see him just to make sure that he knew that things were over. But sometimes long term boyfriends are hard to just get rid of so easily.

Have you ever made a life-changing decision based on a guy in your life? And how did it work out for you?

I never really have. I have considered making lots of life-changing decisions like where I went to college or where I went after college, but I always ended up going with what was best for me. Todd came into my life at a time where we were both pretty settled in where we live now, so we "fit" into each other's lives very neatly.

From Stephanie:
How do you think Ree's family felt that she was just going to give up going to Chicago for a guy she had just met?

I'm not sure about them, but I know my family would have been very skeptical and would have discouraged me from changing my plans.

From Rocky Mountain Wife:
If you were Ree and started to question your life plan (leaving Cali, moving to Chicago, being independent for a while)...how would you feel when this sudden romance came into your life at the 'wrong' time?

I would have been a little bit worried and nervous about my plans getting messed up. But I love that love comes into our lives when we least expect it and we have so much else going on.

From Meghan:
How do you think the situation with Ree's parents affected her relationship with Marlboro Man? (Or do think it did not affect her?)

I think we find out more in Part Two, but I am thinking it will cause her to cling to him more and treasure what they have even more.

Have you ever felt an instant connection with someone? How did it turn out?

Yes. I married him!

What made you relate to Ree? In what ways could you not relate to her?

I am much more of an open book than Ree. I speak freely and don't hold feelings and words back out of fear. I can't believe she hadn't told him anything about her parents. Or that it took her so long to tell Marlboro Man she loved him. I would have been blabbing that stuff to him the second I knew!

From Meredith:
I love all the details of Ree's cooking for Marlboro Man in the early stages of their relationship. Have you ever made anything for the guy in your life that was just an utter disaster? Did he choke it down anyway?

Right after we got married, Todd and I decided to empty our pantry and refrigerator and cook with what we had. Except he doesn't cook, so I had to cook with what we had. I decided to make a casserole out of spaghetti, shredded cheese, Velveeta cheese, sliced turkey (deli meat), and spaghetti sauce. Todd called it "Velveeta Surprise." The first bites weren't so bad, but then we quickly realized that it was absolutely heinous. He has never let me live that down!

From Amber:
How much of Ree's book do you think is truth or fiction? How much did she embellish? Do you think she omitted or added anything? Obviously she couldn't get EVERYTHING that happened during this period of her life in the book, but I kept wondering what was left out and if some of the stuff she was writing was built up just a teensy tiny bit.

I think a lot of it is exaggerated and I think a lot of things having to do with their respective families were probably left out. I don't think either of them came from very modest backgrounds, which is kind of a big deal when you think about it. But those are private matters that have nothing to do with how much or why they love each other.

If this were my love story, I would exaggerate, too. I would gush about my husband's strong arms and the way I feel when he holds me. It is her fairy tale and the way she remembers it all and I think it's fun that there is some embellishment.

Rachel's Response to Part 1

I am loving this book. I read all of PW's tales on her website about two years ago, but it's still just as fun the second time around! It's such a light, easy read. If you haven't started reading yet, it's not too late to start. I promise that you'll fly through the first section.

From Rachel:

Has this book brought you back to the beginning of a romantic relationship in your life?

Most definitely! Those first few months of any relationship are always so fun and new, and I think the way that Ree rights the book reminds me of that time in my own relationships, especially with my husband. I remember spending a whole day with him early on, and just going home at night and smelling my sweatshirt because it smelled like him. I missed him even when we'd been together for hours at a time. I think she just puts it all into words so well.

From Erin:

What surprised you about Ree? If this was your first time reading about her background, did anything surprise you about her "beginnings?"

Since I'd read the whole Black Heels saga on her blog before this, I wasn't entirely surprised, but I definitely remember my shock after reading it for the first time 2 years ago. I love that she was once a vegetarian. It was so not what I expected. I like that she's had a range of experiences in her lifetime.

From Nina:

While reading Part I of Black Heels, did you find yourself comparing your own love life/story to Ree's?

Like I said above, I definitely find connections. Not only do I see connections with past relationships and that intense need to be with that person when the relationship is new, but I could so relate to what
she said about making life choices. I think we all reach an age and point in life where you have to make a decision to follow your heart or your head. When finishing college I had plans to move one place, but in the end, followed my then boyfriend (now husband) to his first job. I guess you could say it all worked out.

Would you have handled ex-boyfriend (J) the same way or differently than Ree did?

Most likely, no. Knowing me, I would have been a sucker and gone to have seen him. I love that she followed her heart and didn't look back. She made her decision and she stuck with it.

From Stephanie:

How do you think Ree's family felt that she was just going to give up going to Chicago for a guy she had just met?

I wondered this too! I am sure they were alarmed, but it also sounds like her parents had their own troubles to worry with. I know that if I had a child, I'm sure I'd question their choice to change directions in life so quickly, but I think I'd support them.

From Rocky Mountain Wife:

If you were Ree and started to question your life plan (leaving Cali, moving to Chicago, being independent for a while)...how would you feel when this sudden romance came into your life at the 'wrong' time?

I know that with my personality, I would have been a big ball of emotions. I like having plans. And something like this would certainly throw me for a loop! I would definitely be saying "This will never work" and I would doubt everything. I think this might be part of the reason why I love the story so much!

From Meghan:

What made you relate to Ree? In what ways could you not relate to her?
Like her - I am a total dork. I total silly stories to impress my husband early on (like her lies about running each morning). I question which direction my life is going in.

Unlike her - I don't think Wranglers would have attracted me at a smoky bar! The muscles? Maybe, but not cowboy jeans!

From Meredith:

I love all the details of Ree's cooking for Marlboro Man in the early stages of their relationship. Have you ever made anything for the guy in your life that was just an utter disaster? Did he choke it down anyway?

YES! I cook all the time now, but our first month or two of marriage was rough. I cried at dinner several nights. There were some awful meals that were made. But somehow, we made it, and I think it's safe to say that my cooking got better over time!

From Amber:

How much of Ree's book do you think is truth or fiction? How much did she embellish? Do you think she omitted or added anything? Obviously she couldn't get EVERYTHING that happened during this period of her life in the book, but I kept wondering what was left out and if some of the stuff she was writing was built up just a teensy tiny bit.

Oh, I definitely think things were left out and she is exaggerating. I mean, c'mon...are his arms really THAT great?? But you know what, I am okay with it. I love the fairy tale story. Even if it's not "real life," it's the same reason I love cheesy chick flicks!

Part One Discussion Questions!

Discussion Questions for Part One of Black Heels to Tractor

Wheels

From Rachel:

Has this book brought you back to the beginning of a romantic relationship in your life?

From Erin:

What surprised you about Ree? If this was your first time reading about her background, did anything surprise you about her "beginnings?"

From Nina:

While reading Part I of Black Heels, did you find yourself comparing your own love life/story to Ree's?

Would you have handled ex-boyfriend (J) the same way or differently than Ree did?

Have you ever made a life-changing decision based on a guy in your life? And how did it work out for you?

From Stephanie:

How do you think Ree's family felt that she was just going to give up going to Chicago for a guy she had just met?

From Rocky Mountain Wife:

If you were Ree and started to question your life plan (leaving Cali, moving to Chicago, being independent for a while)...how would you feel when this sudden romance came into your life at the 'wrong' time?

From Meghan:

How do you think the situation with Ree's parents affected her relationship with Marlboro Man? (Or do think it did not affect her?)

Have you ever felt an instant connection with someone? How did it turn out?

What made you relate to Ree? In what ways could you not relate to her?

From Meredith:

I love all the details of Ree's cooking for Marlboro Man in the early stages of their relationship. Have you ever made anything for the guy in your life that was just an utter disaster? Did he choke it down anyway?

From Amber:

How much of Ree's book do you think is truth or fiction? How much did she embellish? Do you think she omitted or added anything? Obviously she couldn't get EVERYTHING that happened during this period of her life in the book, but I kept wondering what was left out and if some of the stuff she was writing was built up just a teensy tiny bit.

Black Heels To Tractor Wheels: Part One Questions Needed

Hey, book clubbers!

Rachel and I mentioned that we would be asking you all to submit some questions for discussion. This post is going up kind of late on Sunday night, but if you have a question you would like everyone to discuss in their posts for Part One of Black Heels to Tractor Wheels, just post your question(s) in the comments of this post.

I will do a big post on Monday with all of the discussion questions for Part One and then everyone can start getting their posts linked up.

I am enjoying this book so much and having to stop myself was really difficult because I just love it! I can't wait to devour Part Two!

Leave your questions in the comments on this post!

Black Heels to Tractor Wheels Reading Schedule

Hello Bookclubbers!

Hopefully you've all had a chance to get your hands on Pioneer Woman's Book, Black Heels to Tractor Wheels. Mine came in the mail from Amazon the other day and I'm ready to read!


Here's what our reading schedule is going to look like...

Part 1: Questions will be posted Sunday, March 20
Part 2: Questions will be posted Sunday, March 27
Part 3: Questions will be posted Sunday, April 3

Like Erin mentioned in her last post, we'll be asking for you all to submit questions or possibly host some weeks. Be on the lookout for more information about that!

In the meantime, happy reading and we'll see you next Sunday to discuss Part 1!

Black Heels to Tractor Wheels

Hey, readers!

Rachel and I always try to please everyone as best as we can, but we couldn't ignore a majority vote. Even though it's only out on eReaders and hardback, we will be reading Ree Drummond's Black Heels to Tractor Wheels. I think it will be a fun, light read for us in March.

Coming in at a close second place, we will read The House on First Street by Julia Reed in April.

If everyone hasn't already read Freedom before May, that will be our May book club book!

So go ahead and plan to get started with Black Heels... in a week. And reserve your copy of The House on First Street at the library, pick it up at the book store, or order it on Amazon.com in preparation for April's book club.

Rachel and I have thought of some fun ideas to bring some ownership to each of you since this is your book club as much as it is ours. We'll be asking you to think of questions and submit them to us and will even start asking you to volunteer to be the "host of the week."

We will post a reading schedule for Black Heels... early next week and start our questions soon after that.

Thank you, always, for your input.

Let's Vote!

Hey, readers!

Rachel and I were discussing which book we thought we might like to read next and a few books came to mind from our own reading lists and from some of your suggestions.

Check out the suggestions and leave a comment with your vote for the next book. We will announce the next book at the end of the week and start reading a week later. We will more than likely plan to read the other two books next for April and May so you can have some time to pick those up.

Thanks for all of your suggestions!

The House on First Street by Julia Reed

(non-fiction)

Pros: It is already on my reading list! (just kidding)

Cons: It has been out for a while and many of you may have already read it

Freedom by Jonathan Franzen

(fiction)

Pros: Book is getting great reviews

Cons: Many of you have already read it

Black Heels to Tractor Wheels by Ree Drummond

(non-fiction)

Pros: We all love The Pioneer Woman and reading a famous blogger's book would be so much fun!

Cons: This is a new release and may be harder to find in libraries and in paperback

Erin's Response to Chapters 26- Epilogue

1. How would you describe the relationship between John and Isabel?

I can't quite figure this out. So nothing happened with them-- not even close. I didn't want John to cheat on Amanda, but was kind of looking for a little suspense. I can't figure out why Gruen reminded us of John's infatuation with Isabel if nothing was going to come of it. Gruen also made it a point to show us that John was territorial when it came to other men looking at Amanda and he would fantasize about Amanda. But why the attraction to Isabel if nothing was going to come of it?

Was he only attracted to her because of her ability to communicate with the apes and her relationship with the apes? I'm just not sure!

2. What was your reaction to finding out Peter's role in the explosion and capture of the apes?

I wasn't surprised at all. I liked the build up to finding out that he wasn't a good guy. I liked how we trusted him in the beginning and were happy that Isabel had someone she could trust, but I loved reading how that all unraveled. I would have liked to see more of how that all came out. More confrontation and more on why Peter did what he did.

3. Both John and Amanda ended up achieving their professional goals. Amanda ended up getting pregnant and John is excited about having a baby. Do you think this is the end to their problems? Can John and Amanda be happy?

I think they are both content, but why is John leaving Amanda at home alone to go off on these adventurous story assignments when she is pregnant? Maybe John and Amanda both only need professional satisfaction in order to be happy with everything else in their lives. In the book, they had the love, but neither were happy with their careers. So maybe now that they both have their careers in line, their happiness is taken care of. It is obvious that they love each other very much. Hopefully John won't continue to follow Isabel everywhere and his attraction to her will never be acted on.

4. What did you find to be the most intriguing about the bonobos?

They are so smart, so loving, and so human-like. They are great judges of character and are very loyal to those they love. I would absolutely love to get to witness bonobos communicating with each other and with humans!

5. Which character did you enjoy reading about the most?

John's story line was always the most intriguing to me. There wasn't much "action" with Isabel, though I thought she was a great character. I just liked all the drama associated with John- though some of it was over the top and seemed unnecessary. I could have completely done without the introduction of the green-haired kid and the paternity test associated with that. Maybe John needed that to realize that he wanted to be a father? But it was in the last few chapters of the book. I just didn't understand the point of that character or that story. I'm not sure why John went into a meth lab and picked up Booger the dog. There were just some aspects of his story that seemed to be "too much" for me.

6. Was the ending what you expected? Did things resolve the way you thought they would?

Again, I would have liked to see more confrontation in the end, but I am happy with the ending. I'm happy the bonobos are safe and sound and that Isabel has been reunited with them, her family.

7. And finally, any overall thoughts or feelings that these questions haven't addressed? How would you rate this book for others? Any part that you loved? Anything you hated? SHARE!

I would give this book 3 stars out of 5 stars. At least that's what I did on Goodreads. I liked reading about the apes and I liked reading about the world of journalism. I just think that some of the scenes were unnecessary and a waste of paper. I'm excited to read other posts to see if anyone agrees or disagrees. There were a lot of things that I did like about the book, but I feel like the things I liked the most were the conflict and the bonobos, so I'd like to have seen more of how it all shook out and had less shenanigans in John's story.

Ape House Ch. 26-Epilogue Discussion Questions

First of all, sorry these are a bit delayed! It was a busy weekend for both Erin and me. Secondly, are we really done with this book already? It went by so fast! Guess this means we need to start thinking about our next book! Feel free to comment with any suggestions.

Anyhow....here are our questions for this last piece of Ape House:


1. How would you describe the relationship between John and Isabel?

2. What was your reaction to finding out Peter's role in the explosion and capture of the apes?

3. Both John and Amanda ended up achieving their professional goals. Amanda ended up getting pregnant and John is excited about having a baby. Do you think this is the end to their problems? Can John and Amanda be happy?

4. What did you find to be the most intriguing about the bonobos?

5. Which character did you enjoy reading about the most?

6. Was the ending what you expected? Did things resolve the way you thought they would?

7. And finally, any overall thoughts or feelings that these questions haven't addressed? How would you rate this book for others? Any part that you loved? Anything you hated? SHARE!

Rachel's Response to Chapters 13-25

1. Would you watch or be tempted to watch a show like Ape House?

Definitely. Do I think it's ethical or okay? No, but I'd be intrigued. Same reason I watch stuff like The Kardashian's or The Real Housewives. I don't think I'd be a regular watched, but I know I'd be interested in seeing what all the hype was about.

2. Do you think John did the right thing by quitting his job and moving to L.A.?

I suppose. He was unhappy and I truly believe that no one should be stuck in a job that's making them miserable. I've been there and I certainly didn't stick around. Moving to LA was probably best for his marriage and quitting his job was good for his sanity.

3. We haven't seen a whole lot of Isabel in this section, but what do you think of Peter now that we know more about him?

Peter kind of seems like a sleezeball! As soon as I found out he slept with Celia, I knew he was not one to be trusted. The more we've learned about him and his past, the more I'm learning that this is true. I really don't think we'll see him redeeming himself in this book.

4. Can John turn the ape story for the tabloid into something he is proud of? Is he getting a little bit of redemption by being assigned to his dream story again even if it is for a tabloid?

I think he has found a place to devote his energy and passion for journalism, and that is great. He is assigned to a story he cares about and I think that because of this he can write something he's proud of. I know this question doesn't ask about his marriage, but I want to say that I think taking this job and leaving LA for New Mexico may hurt his marriage.

5. Have your thoughts on John and Amanda's marriage changed since last week? Where do you see their marriage headed?

Like I mentioned above...it's not heading in a good direction. It seems like they're only growing farther apart. Leaving his wife a job doesn't seem like a good decision for them.

6. What do you think will end up happening to the apes?

I have a feeling that we're not going to see a happy ending..at least not for all the apes. Right now it sounds like they're in a lot of danger, and I worry how this will all end. There's a lot of directions Gruen could take this story in. I'm excited to see it all play out.

Ch. 13-25 Questions for Ape House

Here are this week's questions:

1. Would you watch or be tempted to watch a show like Ape House?

2. Do you think John did the right thing by quitting his job and moving to L.A.?

3. We haven't seen a whole lot of Isabel in this section, but what do you think of Peter now that we know more about him?

4. Can John turn the ape story for the tabloid into something he is proud of? Is he getting a little bit of redemption by being assigned to his dream story again even if it is for a tabloid?

5. Have your thoughts on John and Amanda's marriage changed since last week? Where do you see their marriage headed?

6. What do you think will end up happening to the apes?

As always, feel free to add in any other thoughts or predictions you have in your post. We love a good discussion!

Erin's Response to Chapters 1-12

We're having to use a new linky tool this time and I'm so sorry about the three columns. I promise we'll do our best to have this figured out before next week's post. Hopefully you can all still click on all of the links for the posts. I'm afraid that if I try to correct it right now, all the links will be lost.

1. What was your initial reaction to the idea of a language lab with bonobos who are capable of having conversations with humans?

At first, I thought, "yeah right. Just more scientists and this may all be something that goes completely over my head." But then as I read more my mind obviously changed. Isabel's interaction and relationship with the bonobos and the individual personalities of the bonobos is are all so touching.

2. Isabel said early in the book that the apes know they're apes and know that the humans are humans, but they don't see any superiority with either... What do you think the major difference is between the two?

I think it's so cool that the apes see themselves as equals with the humans, but there are obviously humans who don't agree. So the biggest difference is that the apes don't have any control ultimately and the humans have all the control over the apes. That's the only hard part about having wild animals in captivity. They can be tamed, but when they're out in the wild they have choices of what they want to eat and where they want to live. If they want to go somewhere, they go.

3. What are your thoughts on John and his feelings toward Isabel? How do you think their relationship will play out?

I would imagine that her talent with the bonobos and her feelings toward them is endearing and attractive. But I hope that the relationship never comes to anything. I hope there's just an infatuation and attraction there, but that's it.

4. How do you think Isabel will respond to the apes being taken?

I'm thinking she will stop at nothing to find them. They are more her family than her actual family is, so she's going to do everything possible to make everything okay again. I'm not sure where they'll all be at that point. Where will the apes go if and when she does find them?

5. Do you think Celia is part of the team that ambushed the learning center?

At first I thought that, but now I'm becoming more and more skeptical of Isabel's fiance.

6. What are your thoughts on John and his relationship with Amanda?

Poor Amanda. It's clear that they love each other very much. I hope that Amanda can find something that makes her happy and gives her confidence. I hope they stay together through the book. I'm a sucker for a happy romance. The good thing about their relationship is that, for the most part, they get along great. And they support each other, which is very important. I just hope that Amanda can get some help and snap out of her funk.

Rachel's Response to Chapters 1-12

I don't know about you all, but I'm really enjoying this book so far. It was a little slow those first few pages, but the more I read, the more I enjoyed it. It was hard to stop at the end of chapter 12.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1. What was your initial reaction to the idea of a language lab with bonobos who are capable of having conversations with humans?

I have never heard of bonobos...anyone else? I was never against the idea of the lab since it sounded like they were treating the animals fairly. In fact, I think the animals were getting better treatment there than in most parts of the world.

2. Isabel said early in the book that the apes know they're apes and know that the humans are humans, but they don't see any superiority with either... What do you think the major difference is between the two?

Although th apes don't see a difference, I think the biggest difference would be that humans have control. I realize that the apes don't necessarily know this, but in the end, the humans are the ones who run the show. After all, it was the apes who were sold to another group of humans.

3. What are your thoughts on John and his feelings toward Isabel? How do you think their relationship will play out?

They bother me greatly. His wife is clearly depressed and although we've read about how much he loves her, I don't like that he's thinking about Isabel all the time. I think with the way Gruen has set things up, there will be a more serious relationship that develops between them.

4. How do you think Isabel will respond to the apes being taken?

With what we know about Isabel, she clearly loves those apes like family members. I have no doubt that she will search for them, high and low, until she finds them and either rescues them or gets herself killed or arrested.

5. Do you think Celia is part of the team that ambushed the learning center?

I can't quite decide. I want to say yes, but at the same time we just don't know enough about Celia. I think Gruen introduced her as someone who we were supposed to dislike, but that makes me wonder, is she actually good? I don't think I can make a decision yet.

6. What are your thoughts on John and his relationship with Amanda?

Amanda clearly needs some help. From what it sounds like, she is in a serious depression, and I don't think moving to LA is going to solve that. It sounds like they truly do love one another, but neither know hows to make the other happy anymore. It's not that they fight, but they both have their own issues and struggles and they can't overcome those to help their marriage. I'm curious to see what will happen to them.

Ape House: Chapters 1-12 {discussion}

Good morning, readers! I didn't get to post the questions last night as hoped. Between the Super Bowl and family responsibilities, time just got away from me. But, please answer the questions and do your posts as you find time. There's no rush at all.

{Use the linky tool at the bottom of the post to attach your post and response to this post.}

1. What was your initial reaction to the idea of a language lab with bonobos who are capable of having conversations with humans?

2. Isabel said early in the book that the apes know they're apes and know that the humans are humans, but they don't see any superiority with either... What do you think the major difference is between the two?

3. What are your thoughts on John and his feelings toward Isabel? How do you think their relationship will play out?

4. How do you think Isabel will respond to the apes being taken?

5. Do you think Celia is part of the team that ambushed the learning center?

6. What are your thoughts on John and his relationship with Amanda?

Reading Schedule for Ape House

Good morning readers!

It's February 1st and, as promised, we're posting the reading schedule for our first book of 2011, Ape House by Sara Gruen.

Hopefully everyone has picked up the book by now, but if you haven't you have a few days before we start posting questions. Rachel and I decided to do about 100 pages per week. I'm hopeful that this is just the right amount of reading each week to keep the speed readers happy and to keep the busier readers (who have trouble finding time to read) engaged.

February 1: Chapters 1-12

February 7: We will post discussion questions for chapters 1-12 on the blog. Read chapters 13-25 this week.

February 14: We will post discussion questions for chapters 13-25 on the blog. Read chapters 26- Epilogue.

February 21: We will post discussion questions for chapters 26- Epilogue on the blog.

I'm excited to get started! We're going to be doing our very best to post the questions on Sunday evenings to help out with crazy schedules during the week.

Happy reading!

answer to a question

Hey girls! I saw that a few of you asked if Ape House is a sequel to Water for Elephants. It is not a sequel, so you can read Ape House without having read Water for Elephants.

I also wanted to point out that we are going to try very hard not to compare Ape House to Water for Elephants. It's hard when an author writes an amazing book and everyone compares the second book to the first. I can't imagine that Ape House will be better or even as good as Water for Elephants.

I just wanted to point out those two things before we get started.

But... seriously, if you haven't read Water for Elephants, you simply must!

a new year, a new book!

Welcome back, book clubbers! Happy New Year to all of you.

After a two month hiatus to breathe during the holiday season, Rachel and I are ready to start reading and discussing great books again with all of you. We both have lists of books we'd like to read in 2011 and have come up with a few books that we think will be great for this great community of readers.

Rachel and I both loved Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen. If you haven't read it, you should do it. Now. It's a wonderful book and the movie will be coming out soon. The movie trailer looks absolutely wonderful, but you know the book is always better than the movie.

I digress. Because we loved Sara Gruen's talent so much, we decided to go with another of her books for our first Book Beginnings and Bookends Book Club book of 2011.

We will be reading Ape House by Sara Gruen.

For more information on Ape House, click here.

To purchase Ape House, click here.

We won't start reading the book or doing the discussion posts until February, so you have the next few weeks to get the book. But don't start reading yet because we'll be posting a reading schedule. We'll also continue to set up the Linky tool for you to post your answers to the discussion questions on your own blog if you'd like.

Happy reading in 2011!