Book Group

I’ve decided to set up an online book group. It’s open to absolutely anyone to join, just leave your name in the comments box below, preferably with your email address for updates, and I’ll add you to the online group.

How it works is really simple, this page is the official page for book group and it’s here that we will host discussions and nominate books to read. Once I have a few members I will open a discussion on which book to read, just leave your suggestion in the comments tab and hopefully we’ll all come to an agreement about a book to read.

I think a month is sufficient time to read a book? So once the book is decided and we’ve all confirmed that we have a copy we’ll get reading, then when the month is up I will post a brief note on what the books was about and open the discussion. Through the comments I hope we’ll have an open and honest discussion about the book (no fighting).

I really hope this can take off because book groups can be a really pleasurable extension off reading. It’s a great way for like minded people to get together and talk about a subject they enjoy!

428 thoughts on “Book Group”

Ijeoma Igbokwe on March 17, 2011 at 3:59 pm said:

Woohoo, I’m in the book group … what’ll be the first book???

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- luby12 on March 17, 2011 at 4:25 pm said:
  
  Yea! Thanks for joining Ijeoma, and congratulations your our first member : )
  
  I’ll post a discussion about which book we should read very soon and then we can all decide between us what to read. Do you have any sugestions and I’ll add them to the post?
  
  Also if you would like to subscribe to this blog to get notifications to your email about book group and reviews etc then please use the Email Subscribtion option on the top right hand corner of this page.
  
  Thanks
  
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Dave Schofield on April 22, 2011 at 11:56 pm said:

Hey, can I join? I love reading! Don’t know if I’ll be able to contribute anything valuable to discussions?!? Alistair just sent me the link to your blog, he works in your building!!

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lubylou12 on April 25, 2011 at 2:19 pm said:

Hi Dave, off course, the more the merrier, great to see your interested. I was originally going to suggest that we all try and do this online but thinking about it, it may be more fun and sociable for everyone to get together and discuss the book once we’ve all read it, what do you think? Providing we all live in the North West region it should work perfectly.

We could do with a few more members if there’s any more book lovers out there interested? I think the best way to do it is to still agree on a book here then we can all go off and hopefully have some happy reading then meet up and discuss the book?

What’s everyone’s thoughts, any books that you would like to nominate? Annabel by Kathleen Winter is top of my TBR pile so that would probably be my first suggestion! It is short listed for the Orange Prize for fiction this year so it’s bound to be a much talked about book in 2011, I read a great review of it on Savidge Reads: http://savidgereads.wordpress.com/2011/04/08/annabel-kathleen-winter/

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Dave Schofield on April 25, 2011 at 9:16 pm said:

Hi
I have a huge list of over 700 which I’m lax about reading through and always get distracted from, and they aren’t in any order so I’m up for your suggestions. The review sounded positive even if the book sounds a little strange, I second Annabel! I’d be happy with in person. 😉
http://manchesterartisticson.blogspot.com/

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lubylou12 on April 26, 2011 at 11:35 am said:

Hi Dave, just checked out your blog, it’s great! Really like the layout and the posts you’ve done so far! Will keep an eye on it.

Well I think once we have a few more people interested we might have ourselves a book group! If you know anyone that might be interested please let them know about it and I’ll try and recruit some more people. I’ll update this page once we have enough members and then we can get the ball rolling!

If anyone in the North West region is interested in joining our book group then please get in touch, the more the merrier!

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Dave Schofield on April 26, 2011 at 8:18 pm said:

My sis would do it, she read English at uni, I’ll ask her, thanks for looking at my blog, it’s in it’s infancy and I don’t know what I’m doing, advice is sorely needed!

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lubylou12 on April 27, 2011 at 4:56 pm said:

That would be great if she’s interested in joining too. I think I know a few people interested as well so I’ll see when there free to start.

I’m actually in another Manchester book group but we started a book a month ago and were having our first meet and discuss on Monday, if you could read the book by Monday you’d be very welcome to join but it is a 600 page book : ) If not I’ll get this other book group started up very soon.

My blogs in infancy too so probably not the best one to ask but I think what you’ve done so far is great, I love the sketches and poems, keep it up. I’m subscribed now so I’ll definitely follow you!

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Dave Schofield on April 27, 2011 at 9:05 pm said:

ha 600 pages, a doddle, but I’m in Marrakech Monday so that’s my excuse!! I’ve just read Sarah Waters Fingersmith and Margaret Atwood Alias Grace which are both at least 500 pages, so I’m getting used to long reads. Fingersmith is excellent if you haven’t read it.

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- lubylou12 on April 29, 2011 at 11:08 pm said:
  
  Thanks for the recommendation Dave, might have to add Margaret Atwood to my TBR list. It’s a shame you can’t make the book club but I’m also very jealous of your holiday! Hope you have a lovely time and hopefully we’ll get this other book group off the ground soon!
  
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SammyDee on May 9, 2011 at 10:45 am said:

If I’m not too late I’ll add Annabel to my wishlist too.

I’m Steve’s friend who told you about Bookcrossing.com ( see http://bookcrossing.com/referral/CrazyCrayfish ).

It’s incredibly cheeky of me, seeing as you don’t know me, but could I borrow your Jasper Fford book when you’re finished with it? I’ve been dying to read one of his books since reading the first chapter of ‘Shades of Grey’ but I haven’t got around to buying one yet. I’d happily give you any of my books listed on the bookcrossing page in return. I promise to not bend the spine!

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lubylou12 on May 9, 2011 at 1:07 pm said:

Hi there,

Thanks for getting in touch, I love the Book Crossing site and will be doing a post on it very soon. Just checked your profile it’s great. I’ve started my own but haven’t had a chance to add to it yet so it’s a little sparse.

Would you like to join our book group? It seems we have enough people interested now. I know Ijeoma has suggested reading Purple Hibiscus Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie so it’s between that and Annabel if anyone has a preference?

I actually read the Eyre Affair on my E reader. Do you have one? I have just ordered a copy from Amazon though which your very welcome to borrow once I recieve it. Would you like to send me your address in an email to lubystephenson@gmail.com

I’ notice you have some Ian Banks books, I’ve been meaning to try him if you could recommend one of the two that are listed on your Book Crossing page?

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Dave Schofield on May 9, 2011 at 1:58 pm said:

Either sounds good, I think that’s our first two books sorted, they’re both very international. I read a book from Newfoundland on my hols called The Lost Salt Gift of Blood, by Alistair MacLeod, so the Nigerian one might me my vote to start but I’m easy. Just let me know when we have to read it by and I’ll purchase.
thanks
Dave

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SammyDee on May 9, 2011 at 2:19 pm said:

I’ll add Purple Hibiscus to my wish list too!

Of the 2 Iain Banks books on my list I think I preferred Complicity – More story, less strange. I’ll send both across to you and you can release them into the wild when you’re finished.

My favourite book by Iain Banks is his first: ‘The Wasp Factory.’ Unfortunately I gave away my copy years ago but if you come across it pick it up. It’s an intriguing story that’s both gripping and disturbing. It’s been 10 years since I read it but it’s still the one I recommend most.

I’ll send you a separate email with my address (although I’m sure our mutual friend won’t mind being an occasional messenger / delivery guy!)

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lubylou12 on May 10, 2011 at 9:42 am said:

Hi Dave, I’ve spoke to Ijeoma and another friend of mine who are going to be part of the book group and their both happy to read The Purple Hibiscus so I think we should go with that. I’ll check with the others when they want to start and then we’ll all purchase a copy and meet up in a month to discuss? Hope you had a good holiday. I haven’t heard of The Lost Salt Gift of Blood, was it a good read?

Sammy thanks for the email, I’ll try and get that book to you soon. I think I’ll try Complicity first on your recommendation. I’ve heard great things about The Wasp Factory so I’ll keep an eye out for that.

If you would like to join the book group and read The Purple Hibiscus with us then just let me know.

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Ijeoma on May 10, 2011 at 3:54 pm said:

Hooray for Purple Hibiscus!!! Can’t wait for the first meet 🙂 x

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lubylou12 on May 10, 2011 at 4:10 pm said:

Hi Ijeoma, glad to see your still interested, it’s taken a while to get off the ground but I think were getting there. I know my friend Rebecca is also interested so that makes four of us so far.

Were you interested in joining as well Sammy?

Does everyone still agree that a month is sufficient time to read it? Once everyone has a copy please let me know and I’ll annonce when were going to start reading it. Probably this time next week if that works?

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Dave Schofield on May 10, 2011 at 10:26 pm said:

ha it’s like the start of a race, a month is easy enough for a 300 odd word book I reckon, I shall purchase this week.
thanks
Dave

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SammyDee on May 11, 2011 at 11:28 am said:

Yep, I’m in. Just ordered Purple Hibiscus and should receive it within a week.

Slightly disappointed I couldn’t get it for the ebook reader but I’m sure my bookshelf won’t complain.

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lubylou12 on May 11, 2011 at 11:46 am said:

That’s annoying that you can’t get it on the e reader. I was hoping to do the same. I’ll let you know if I have any luck.

Great that’s five of us now including my friends Rebecca who has also joined. Shall we start reading it this time next week when we’ve all had a chance to get a copy. Then meet a month from then. Looking forward to meeting you all and discussing the book!

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Claire. on May 22, 2011 at 7:42 pm said:

Hi, I’m a friend of SammyDee and looking to join the group too if that’s okay.
I managed to get a copy of Purple Hibiscus from the Library yesterday so I’m all ready to start reading. 🙂

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Dave Schofield on May 22, 2011 at 9:18 pm said:

Hi Lou/others
Have my copy of PH, got it from my local library since they are much in danger of disapearing in my area, I am reading the very excellent ‘L shaped room’ by Lynn Reid Banks first but can dispatch it quite quickly after that. However I don’t want it read and forgotten by the time we meet, so what timeline are you planning? And I’m curious how do you think it will pan out? Weekday night, or weekend? In a pub? Or something wildly different? I’m a book club newb so do tell. I’ve not read any Philip Roth btw, I’m sure he’s a deserving author, have you read any?

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lubylou12 on May 23, 2011 at 10:17 am said:

BOOK GROUP UPDATE

Hi everyone, so we seem to have enough members now I think to officially get started with Book Group, and now that you’ve all kindly got your copies of PH I think it’s time to set a date for our first book group meet, very exciting! : )

I think if we all start it now and meet in a months time that should give everyone a chance to read the book. A month from today is the 19th which is a Sunday so we could meet then? Or if people prefer a week day meet then we could meet on Thursday the 25th (I said a Thursday as I thought meeting in a pub would be good and that means it’s a little closer to the weekend for those wanting a drink or two) Any preferences?

So like I said I thought a pub meet would be best, just somewhere in town? Again any preferences?

P.s. Clare that would be lovely if you’d like to join us, the more the merrier! Looking forward to our first book group!

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lubylou12 on May 23, 2011 at 10:21 am said:

Hi Dave,

On a seperate note I’ve not heard of the L Shaped room, what is it about? You always seem to have an interesting book on the go, you’ll have to give me some suggestions when we meet.

I studied Roth a little at uni so I didn’t read any of his books for pleasure but did enjoy studying his work.

I’ve being thinking of reading Portnoy’s Complaint which is one of his best known works and I’ve read very, very good things about it. If I do get my hands on a copy I’d be happy to loan it to you.

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SammyDee on May 23, 2011 at 11:44 am said:

Hi all,

I glad I’m not the only book club newbie. I’ve never joined a book club before so I don’t really know what to expect. A friend of mine joined a book club and they had to write essays and deliver presentations! Eek! Lol.

I can make either Sunday 19th or Thursday 23rd June, but I’m swaying towards the week day. Is anyone else?

Sunday 19th June is Father’s Day. I don’t know if that will make a difference to anyone? I haven’t made any plans for Father’s Day yet but we do tend to plan these things last minute. Also, if it’s anything like Mother’s Day the pubs could be rammed.

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SammyDee on May 23, 2011 at 11:51 am said:

I assume you meant Thursday 23rd right? I’m not just throwing my own dates in for consideration! The 25th is a Saturday.

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Dave Schofield on May 23, 2011 at 1:19 pm said:

I’m a book club virgin too Sam, I might make some notes as I’m reading it but I doubt anyone will be writing 5000 word critiques…
Thursday’s cool for me, I finish work at about 6pm and can be in Manchester by 7pm I reckon, but closer to the time I’ll know if i can make it any earlier. I’ll hold off reading PH for a couple of weeks then so it’s fresh in my mind. I’m a Bolton boy so don’t know any quiet pubs in Manchester, the only ones I go into usually have people hanging from the ceiling. I could suggest a pub in Bolton but book-clubs and all interlectual past times are banned here!! 😉

Lou: I heard that was his most famous book, from the sixties? I’d love to read it, strange that I know his name but none of his books looked familiar, maybe i’ve read some of his short stories. I read an eclectic list I guess, not as up to date as you, I’ll certainly confess to my favs. The L shaped room is a pretty famous book form the sixties, about a girl who fiinds herself pregnant and is kicked out of her home and she has to leave her job and find a flat. It’s a bit like the film ‘Cathy come home’ which is brilliant too.
thanks. x

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SammyDee on May 23, 2011 at 3:42 pm said:

I’ve read a few reviews and The L Shaped Room does sound interesting. I hadn’t heard of it before but I think I might pick up a copy.

On a slightly different note, has anyone else come across the Mancunian poet Mike Garry? He delivered a couple of his poems at an exhibition opening at the weekend and we were enthralled. I should have bought his book God is a Manc there and then (and got it signed) but I stupidly helped myself to another free glass of wine instead. I’ll be looking out for his work (or guest appearances) in future. If you’re interested I found this book review online with a few excerpts:

http://www.manchestersalon.org.uk/god-is-a-manc-poetry-mike-garry.html

Scroll to the bottom for the poem ‘God is a Manc’.

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- Dave Schofield on May 23, 2011 at 4:54 pm said:
  
  Mike Garry is a genius, which poems did he do? I heard him do one where he was in character as a Big Issue seller, God is a Manc and Anthony Wilson, very good performer. Will we be reviewing poetry too!! I keep meaning to go to poetry slams, there’s one in Wigan every month.
  thanks for the links.
  
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SammyDee on May 24, 2011 at 3:07 pm said:

He performed ‘Saint Anthony’ from Mancunian Meaner and ‘God is a Manc’ from his book with the same name.

Come to think of it, ‘Saint Anthony’ is about Anthony Wilson so it could be the same one you saw.

I agree, he is a genius.
(Although I am biased towards fellow Mancunians)

A random bloke stood outside the window of the gallery chucking notes about and gesturing to him, completely throwing him off. Poor Mike! He didn’t seem to mind too much and won a lot of affection from the crowd.

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lubylou12 on May 26, 2011 at 10:06 am said:

Hi everyone,

Apologizes for my late response, being a little under the weather this week, it’s nice to see everyone talking about books and poems though : ) I hadn’t heard of Mike Garry before so I’ll take a look into him, he certainly sounds interesting and I’m always intrigued by poets from the North East. Thanks for the suggestion!

On the book group subject the Thursday is good for me. I don’t think there’s any rules, sometimes it’s nice to let these things grow organically. I wasn’t going to make any intense notes, I usually annotate my books and go by that, but you guys please feel free to do whatever feels right for you. I was going to bring some pen and paper and jot down our thoughts just so I can add them to my review, does that work for everyone?

Also maybe the city centre would be a good location with everyone knowing how to get there etc?

Dave, I think the fact you’ve heard of Roth without having read his books is testament to his popularity, I definitely think you should give him a go. I always enjoy reading a book or author after they’ve won an award as I think it makes it all the more topical and enjoyable to talk about, what do you think?

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claire on May 27, 2011 at 11:58 am said:

The 23rd would be great for me! I’ve borrowed the book from the library and will have taken it back by then so If its okay I might bring some notes just to remind me!

Re – Mike Garry – was he in the film 24 hour party people too!

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lubylou12 on May 27, 2011 at 1:42 pm said:

Off course, bring whatever you like, I’d like to add all of your thoughts to the review I’ll be doing so that would be very handy.

O I’m not sure about that one but then I’m not very clued up on Mike Garry…yet.

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lubylou12 on June 10, 2011 at 11:17 am said:

Hi guys, just a quick one to say I’m looking forward to our first ever book group which is getting more and more imminent. I hope your enjoying the book if you’ve started it, and if like me your a bit naughty and haven’t yet, I hope you do when you come to read it : )

Was everyone ok with the 23rd?

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SammyDee on June 15, 2011 at 10:19 am said:

I’m still ok with the 23rd. Looking forward to it. 🙂

As no one else has suggested a venue yet I would like to suggest Epernay, (near Bar 38 just off Deansgate / Peter Street – Just a short walk from Manchester Central Library).

I’ll admit that a Champagne and Cocktail Bar might not be the obvious choice for a book meet but let me explain…

On June 23rd Epernay are hosting the Lambs Spiced Rum Grand Final After Party – so between 7 pm and 9 pm guests will receive free Rum Cocktails (usually 4 to choose from – have as many or as few as you choose) plus they’ll have people giving free massages!

Outside of those hours you pay as normal. Plus, if you want a drink other than something from their rum cocktail menu you pay as normal.

I go to events like this regularly because I arrange corporate events for work – The last time I went to Epernay we had free Cointreau cocktails and free manicures.

I assume they will have the same set up as last time – That is, there are 2 rooms plus a balcony. The event is in the far room away from the bar and balcony, but you can have the cocktails in either room. (Either go to the bar yourself or have table service in the event room).

There is ‘live music’ from 8:30 pm but it is actually a very quiet female singer. The volume is very low – it’s really just background music to people’s conversations.

The venue was very quiet last time I attended one of their events – both in volume and capacity. I’m expecting it to be the same again. I’m pretty certain I can get us all on the guest list.

How does everyone else feel about combining books, free cocktails and free massages?

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lubylou12 on June 15, 2011 at 10:33 am said:

Hi Sam,

I’m very happy with this location if everyone else is? I know Ijeoma and another book group member from my work, Rebecca, are happy to have it there. What does everyone else think? Even if it does get too loud (which it doesn’t sound like it will) there’s plenty of bars around that area so we wont be stuck.

Thanks for the suggestion!

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Rebecca on June 15, 2011 at 11:29 am said:

Hello everyone!
Late joiner but very excited about the first meet!
Felling a little out of my depth but will try and contribute where i can 🙂
Rebecca x

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SammyDee on June 15, 2011 at 12:14 pm said:

Hi Rebecca. I’ve never joined a book club before so you’re not the only one who feels she might be a little out of her depth. I’m sure we’ll both be fine! lol 😀

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lubylou12 on June 15, 2011 at 1:25 pm said:

This is my first my proper book group, I think were all newbies! We’ll make it our own thing though and I’m sure it will be lots of fun, looking forward to next Tursday 🙂

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SammyDee on June 17, 2011 at 1:23 pm said:

Claire emailed me this morning to say she’s still on for the 23rd. She said free rum cocktails and massages at Eperney sounds good to her.

Should I try to get us all on the guest list then? There are 7 of us right? (They didn’t check names at the door last time because it was quiet but it’s best to RSVP just in case).

Lou – It might be best if we split the numbers so I’ll RSVP for myself plus 2 / 3 guests and you RSVP for yourself plus 2 / 3 guests. If you’re ok with that I’ll send you the details in an email.

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lubylou12 on June 17, 2011 at 4:09 pm said:

Hi Sam,

That’s great news, glad people can make it. I’ve just been told that someone else would you like to join.

So by RSVP do you want me to book our places? little confused : ) Long day.

So far there is you, me and Claire, then two girls from my work. The lovely Simon from Savidge reads and his friend Joe and hopefully still Joe…8 of us! Wow that’s more than I thought. If you could get us guestlist that would be great!

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SammyDee on June 17, 2011 at 4:56 pm said:

Hi Lou, sorry for confusing you. The venue emailed the invitation to me and asked that we RSVP to them if we want to go. So yes, I mean lets email Ryan back to book our places. 🙂

They didn’t check names off the guest list last time so they probably just want RSVPs to get an idea of numbers. I’ll send you an email with the details.

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SammyDee on June 17, 2011 at 4:59 pm said:

Ok, maybe that wasn’t clear. They might not like the idea of large groups so it’s best if we don’t ask for 8 places in one go. I’ll ask for 4 people and you ask for 4 people. (Plus I’d already booked 3 tickets so I need to use a different email address!) It’s been a long day for me too!

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Dave Schofield on June 18, 2011 at 10:11 pm said:

Hey guys
Looks like I got left off the guest lists. Not to worry, the club seems to have got rather large rather quick – and if I’m honest I googled the venue and it does seem a little posh and cool, and I’m neither posh nor cool. I’d be like Fred Dibnah at Ascot 😉 Well I hope you have fun and let me know what people think of PH because I enjoyed it but thought it was sad.
x

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- lubylou12 on June 20, 2011 at 10:56 am said:
  
  Hi Dave,
  
  I’m really sorry there seems to have been some confusion, in my previous comment when I said ‘and hopefully still Joe’ I meant you, I just got mixed up, another classic blonde moment. I had included you in that 8 so was hoping you could make it still? If the venue really isn’t your thing we can change it? It would be great to have you there as we’ve been discussing this for ages and you were one of the original book group gang : ) So if location change helps let me know, or we could try that place and if it’s no good go to taps downstairs, or somewhere else?
  
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  - Dave Schofield on June 20, 2011 at 11:49 pm said:
    
    I wouldn’t ask you to change the venue for a minute, especially when I’m only going off the description and website, I don’t even know the place – I just worried I wouldn’t fit in, I’m more of a Northern Quarter type, I like bars with sticky floors, light bulbs that flicker and a machine in the toilet dispensing tic-tacs and lube. If I see 48 types of Champagne on a menu I’m looking for the exit, not that it’s ever happened to me yet – end of the month etc etc payday next week blah blah. I’d be a nob to refuse after your enthusiasm though. Would I need to say my name is Joe at the door? Or just say I’m with Louise’s/Sam’s party? I just thought this was going to be less swish and more geeky, I’ll leave my I ‘heart’ books cap at home then? (kidding) I’m away Tuesday-Wednesday so won’t check messages till Thursday late morning in case there’s further instructions. x
  - lubylou12 on June 22, 2011 at 9:39 am said:
    
    Hi Dave, glad to hear you can still come. I know it might seem a little posh and I’m usually a Northern Quarter girl myslef but the free drinks should make it easy on the purse strings for everyone : )
    
    Maybe next time we should go somewhere in the Northern Quarter?
    
    Half 6 seems to be the general time that everyone can make, does that work for you?
- SammyDee on June 20, 2011 at 2:36 pm said:
  
  Hi Dave, I hope you change your mind and do still come on Thursday evening – even if the place does look a bit pretentious. It would be a shame to miss out on our first meeting and on the promise of free drinks. 😉
  
  For the next one maybe we’d be better off in The Waterhouse, or The Vine instead? They’re probably better venues for it in all honesty – Lots of out-of-the-way areas to sit and chat. But oh, free booze? Surely we can talk you around to this venue as a one off?…
  
  Pretty please?…
  
  Cherry on top? Lol 😀
  
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SammyDee on June 20, 2011 at 9:48 am said:

Hi Dave, I’m pretty sure you’re one of the 8 we were getting tickets for.

I only suggested it because there would be free drinks. We could always move on somewhere else if people felt uncomfortable. Epernay bigs itself up on the website but it’s not really as posh as it pretends to be. – I’ve never made an effort to go there – I’ll just be wearing jeans as usual.

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lubylou12 on June 20, 2011 at 11:04 am said:

Hi guys,

Book group is getting closer and closer, what time is good for you all this Thursday? I’m fre anytime frm 6pm onwards really!

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SammyDee on June 20, 2011 at 2:27 pm said:

Anytime after 6:15 pm for me. Depending on the location add on another 15 mins for getting there – so 6:30 ish onwards?

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Claire on June 20, 2011 at 7:23 pm said:

I can get into town bout 6.15 ish too, so 6.30pm sounds good for me. Looking forward to meeting you all soon and drinking Free Rum cocktails. 🙂

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lubylou12 on June 22, 2011 at 9:43 am said:

Hi guys,

Half 6 seems to be a good time for everyone so shall we meet then?

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SammyDee on June 22, 2011 at 3:21 pm said:

That’s fine with me and Claire. We’re meeting up at 6:15 then heading to the bar.

In answer to Dave’s question – I doubt you’ll need to give a name at the door but in case you do, you can try giving Lou’s name first (I’m booked under several names. It’s complicated). The event is only technically in the back room, so if we all congregate in the bar first we can head into the other room (or not) when everyone has arrived.

P.S. It’s upstairs to Epernay – There’s no bar on the ground floor – the front door is to the right hand side of Taps and leads straight upstairs to the bar.

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lubylou12 on June 23, 2011 at 12:00 pm said:

Hi guys,

Thanks for the info Samy. Is everyone happy with the arrangements for tonight? Does everyone know when and were we are meeting? I think we’ve all agreed with 6:30. Is everyone still cool with that? Any problems or questions drop me an email at lubystephenson@gmail.com and I can give you my mobile number if you need it : )

See you all tonight x

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lubylou12 on June 23, 2011 at 12:01 pm said:

O and David, please say you are with Lou’s party!

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Dave Schofield on June 24, 2011 at 11:08 pm said:

Thanks again Lou for arranging such a successful night, even though we were mostly new to book clubbing I think the mix of book-relatedness and socialising was just right – looking forward to future meets.

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lubylou12 on June 27, 2011 at 11:06 am said:

Hi Dave,

I’m glad you had fun, I thought it was a great night, thanks everyone for coming! I’m looking forward to the next one, my copy of God of Small Things is on it’s way…happy reading everyone : )

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- Manchester's Artistic Son on July 9, 2011 at 10:20 pm said:
  
  Do we have a date in mind Lou?
  i’m in Isle of Man 20th-24th July and can’t do the 18th of July, apart from that…. I best start bloody reading it, eh?
  
  Reply ↓
lubylou12 on July 11, 2011 at 12:40 pm said:

Hi guys,

So the last one was on the 23rd and I know we said we’d meet again in 5 weeks which would make it the 28th I believe, however I know Rebecca and Ijeoma can’t do Thursdays at the moment so what abitu Wednesday the 27th?

Let me know what you all think and we can take it from there!

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- Dave Schofield on July 11, 2011 at 8:53 pm said:
  
  suits me.
  
  Reply ↓
- SammyDee on July 22, 2011 at 11:26 am said:
  
  Eek! What?! I totally missed this message! That only gives me this weekend to read it! (I’ve only managed 4 chapters).
  
  I’ll have to email Claire. I don’t think she’s seen the message either. Is everyone else ok with the date?
  
  Has anyone suggested a location yet?
  
  Reply ↓
  - Manchester's Artistic Son on July 22, 2011 at 8:03 pm said:
    
    Ha ha, I’m away in the Isle of Mann, I saw the post and replied but I’m still only on ch.4, it’s okay D. we’ll finish it, four days left, it’s pretty easy reading.
Claire on July 24, 2011 at 11:36 am said:

Hi Guys,
Wednesday should be okay for me.. Only read the first couple of chapters but hopefully will get it read by wednesday? Any Ideas where we can meet?
Claire x

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- SammyDee on July 25, 2011 at 9:59 am said:
  
  Mild panic over – I finished it on Sunday. Phew! lol.
  
  Did anyone else find they were making comparisons with Purple Hibiscus? No, wait! Save it for Wednesday! 😀
  
  Do we have a location yet? Lou, are you going to email us with the details?
  
  Reply ↓
  - SammyDee on July 25, 2011 at 10:02 am said:
    
    Just noticed I sound like a broken record. I’ll stop asking about the location now. 🙂
lubylou12 on July 25, 2011 at 11:25 am said:

Hi guys,

Really sorry for the late responses, I haven’t had much internet access this weekend.

I’ve just spoken to Rebecca and Ijeoma and there’s a little concern that they wont be able to make this Wednesday, how would everyone feel about the following Wednesday? I’m sorry I know it’s short notice but it seems a shame to be to members down, plus it would give anyone who hasn’t had a chance to finish the book yet a bit more time?

What does everyone think?

P.s. I was thinking somewhere in the Northern Quarter, there’s some quite nice, chilled bars? I’ll come up with some ideas and send an email around.

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Manchester's Artistic Son on July 25, 2011 at 12:18 pm said:

I thought we’d already moved from Thursday to Wednesday for these troublesome ladies? I might not be able to make the following Wednesday because usually I work till half six and being a dirty gardener (and living in the suburbs) I can’t be in Manchester until maybe 1.5-2 hours after that, so I’d took this Wednesday off. It all depends on how next Wednesday looks workwise. As for this book, any chance we can change it at this stage? Only kidding…but expect swear words from me. Dave

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lubylou12 on July 25, 2011 at 12:54 pm said:

I know I’m really sorry, I can double check with them to see if they can but as I understand their sturggling with work commitments this week. What about another night next week?

Ha to be honest it seems like no one enjoyed the book : ( At least we’ll all have plenty to say though

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- SammyDee on July 26, 2011 at 1:12 pm said:
  
  Hi Lou, have you spoken to any of the others about the date? I’ll let you know when I hear from Claire.
  
  It’s such a shame about the book. I’d heard such good things about it.
  
  Reply ↓
SammyDee on July 26, 2011 at 1:25 pm said:

Slightly off topic but I want to ask: Have you registered your 10 books for World Book Night? We’ve got until August 31st to nomiate 10 books each. The top 100 is constantly updating. You can view it here: http://www.worldbooknight.org/your-books/the-wbn-top-100-books

The God of Small Things is currently at 95.

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- lubylou12 on July 26, 2011 at 1:35 pm said:
  
  O I didn’t realise it was so soon, I’ll do that today, have you one your’s yet? Thanks for reminding me!
  
  Reply ↓
  - SammyDee on July 26, 2011 at 2:48 pm said:
    
    No, I’ve registered my name but I haven’t registered my nominations yet. I haven’t chosen my top 10 yet.
lubylou12 on July 26, 2011 at 1:34 pm said:

Hi,

I’ve heard from Dave and Ijeoma, they can both do that day and I thin Rebecca can too, so hopefully Clare can as well. I’m waiting to hear from Simon as well.

I know it’s such a shame, no one seems to have liked it. Guys I’m going to put something out there and just tell me no if you don’t want to!

If we all really didn’t like it (which seems to be the case) I was going to suggest Before I Go To Sleep by S J Watson as my next choice, apparently it’s about a woman with amnesia who wakes up every day not knowing who or were she is. She keeps a diary to track her life and remind her who she is, however one day she discovers writing in her diary, in her own hand writing telling her not to trust her husband.

It seems like a nice quick read and something we’d all like, we can still obviously touch on God Of Small Things but focus on this book. I’m only suggesting cos everyone seemed to really struggle with the other book, if you all hate this idea though I’m totally happy to stick to the original….just a thought : )

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lubylou12 on July 26, 2011 at 4:16 pm said:

Actually guys on second thoughts and after speaking to a few book group members maybe another book is a little ambitious and pointless. Shall we just stick with The God Of Small Things for better or worse : ) I was thinking The Bay Horse for the location?

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SammyDee on July 27, 2011 at 9:38 am said:

Hello, Claire has been in touch. She can make next Wednesday too. 🙂

She has reserved “Before I Go To Sleep” from the library but she thinks it might not actually arrive in time. I’m in a similar situation. I’d be happy to leave it for now and stick with The God of Small Things. Phew! Saves me a lot of running around!

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lubylou12 on August 1, 2011 at 11:11 am said:

Hi Guys,

Hope your all well. Bad news, quite a few people can’t make this week : ( Danielle, Simon and Rebecca are all unable to come.

Can I just check Clare, Ijeoma and Dave that your all still up for coming? And are you all alright with the low numbers?

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- Claire on August 1, 2011 at 8:09 pm said:
  
  Hey Lou.
  
  I can still make it, But happy to postpone to next week if more people could/want to come.
  Just let me know the plans!
  C x
  
  Reply ↓
  - Claire on August 2, 2011 at 10:26 pm said:
    
    Hi Everyone. Just looking to see if we are still meeting tomorrow and what time C x
claire on August 3, 2011 at 8:53 am said:

Hi Guys.

I have no idea whats going on tonight and so I’m assuming its cancelled and will make alternative plans.
Please let me know when the next meet is. See you soon Claire x

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- Manchester's Artistic Son on August 3, 2011 at 11:24 am said:
  
  CLAIRE!!! it’s happening!!
  Lou quelle heure? Et ou? Is it the Bay Horse did you say? Is that down from Sinclairs and the Wellington? Shall I aim to be in town 7 ish? I think this is officially last minute. Next time you should post a time and date and location and we shouldn’t discuss it and then just see who makes it. Claire cancel those other plans!!!!!
  
  Reply ↓
  - SammyDee on August 3, 2011 at 12:21 pm said:
    
    The Bay Horse is on Thomas Street, opposite Odd. Do you know Odd? If not it’s just near the junction that has Walrus, Bluu, and Dough – Just up from Shudehill station / Arndale Food Market.
    
    Is it 7 pm or is it 6 pm? I’m going to try to join you briefly but I need to leave at 7 pm. Oh, which reminds me! I need to book the restaurant!
  - Claire on August 5, 2011 at 6:58 pm said:
    
    Hi Everyone,
    Sorry I couldn’t make it to the last group meeting. The 1st is good for me too.
    Was the Bayhorse good as a venue?
    I’m also looking forward to reading the next book. It does sound really good and I like 50 first dates too. 🙂 I like Adam Sandler though especially in Happy Gilmore. 🙂
    See you soon. C x
lubylou12 on August 3, 2011 at 9:06 am said:

Hi Clare, I’m really sorry I’ve had some problems with internet action last night and only just saw your messages. Ijeoma and Dave are still able to make tonight so I was going to suggest still doing book group the four of us, are you able to attend? Sorry again for the late response x

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- SammyDee on August 3, 2011 at 12:16 pm said:
  
  I don’t think Claire can read the blog during work hours. I will text her with the details instead. 😦
  
  Reply ↓
- Claire on August 5, 2011 at 7:07 pm said:
  
  Hi Lou. No worries. These things happen. Sorry I wasn’t able to make it, I’m looking forward to the next meet up and your review of the book. 🙂
  I thought it was okay but was a little confused with the timeline quite a lot and often found it a little too verbose at times, I found it quite hard to get into it at first but managed to get through it quite quickly once I got started. Overall.. It was ok. I don’t think it’ll be one I read again soon though. x
  
  Reply ↓
lubylou12 on August 3, 2011 at 12:45 pm said:

Hi guys,

I still haven’t heard back from Ijeoma about times but I’m going to say six, how does that work for everyone?? And yeah The Bay Horse is next to Thomas resturant and opposite Odd bar, if anyone has any problems getting there then just give me a call, I think you all have mynumber.

Danielle thanks for letting Clare know : ) Which resturant is that? x

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- SammyDee on August 3, 2011 at 1:26 pm said:
  
  Family meal at the Red Hot World Buffet. Have you tried it yet? It’s huge! I plan to have 6 plates worth. lol ;-p
  
  See you some time after 6 – I need to buy a card on the way!
  
  Reply ↓
SammyDee on August 3, 2011 at 1:22 pm said:

Bad news 😦 I’ve just heard from Claire – She’s really sorry but she can’t cancel her other plans now. She’s gutted about missing the second meeting. She was looking forward to it but didn’t know what so happening so assumed it must have been cancelled. (She doesn’t live in the city centre – It’s a long way to come if no one else turns up!)

Claire and I are both looking forward to finding out what the next book is. (Claire has already reserved the one Lou suggested).

Hopefully people will discuss TGOSM online on the blog instead – following the official meeting and Lou’s book review. I’d like to hear what the others thought – not all criticism please! :-p

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lubylou12 on August 3, 2011 at 2:18 pm said:

O no that’s such a same, never mind though, hopefully everyone will post their thoughts on my review and we can carry on the discussion then!

Ok well my plan for the next book group is to plan ahead : ) Tonight we can agree on a book for next time, Danielle if your coming for a bit you can always contribute to that to if you have any idea’s? Then I’ll send an email tomorrow with date suggestions, hopefully if we can all agree on one we can permanent marker it in our diaries and fingers crossed it’ll be a full turn out next time.

Dave/Ijeoma I’m sorry there’s only a few of us but hey I’m sure were all opinionated enough to have a good book chat. See you all at 6 in The Bay Horse?

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lubylou12 on August 5, 2011 at 1:43 pm said:

BOOK GROUP UPDATE…

Hi everyone, so just wanted to say thanks to those who made it down on Wednesday for our second book group, for those that couldn’t make it, I am sorry that this months didn’t run quite so smoothly but I’ll be posting my review on TGOST sometime this weekend so it would be great to hear your thoughts if you’d like to comment on there, I’d love to get a feel of everyone’s thoughts.

Now onto the next book group, in an effort for more organisation I am going to suggest the dates now for our next meet. Dave and Ijeoma were fine with either the 30, 31st or 1st of this month for the next meet. How does everyone else feel about those dates? I think it’s probably better if we don’t leave it so long this time, what’s everyone’s thoughts?

Also the book we agreed on is Before I go to sleep by S J Watson – I hope that’s ok with you all?

Please can you just get back on here and let me know which date suits and then we can all put it in our diaries. Looking forward to it already : )

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Ijeoma on August 5, 2011 at 2:06 pm said:

Hi Lou,

I can’t do 30th Aug, but 31st Aug or 1st Sept are fine with me 🙂

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Rebecca on August 5, 2011 at 2:51 pm said:

Hey Everyone

Sorry I wasnt there either on Wednesday Lou! I hear it was still a success 🙂 I am on holiday on the 30th and 31st so the 1st would be best for me. However, I have no plans to be away so may be able to make the 31st if that is the date that everyone sways towards.

New book sounds great! Sounds like a darker version of the film “50 First Dates”. Sorry that is my pathetic like in Chick Flicks coming out. Enough said! 😦

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Manchester's Artistic Son on August 5, 2011 at 8:46 pm said:

I said the same thing, I thought maybe the book inspired the film!!! 😉

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SammyDee on August 8, 2011 at 1:50 pm said:

My calendar is free for all of those dates so far. I’ll forward the details to Claire.

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lubylou12 on August 8, 2011 at 4:19 pm said:

Hi guys, it seems that the 1st is the best date so I’m going to make that the definitive date. I hope everyone can make it, nearer the time I will post the location and I am open to suggestions but I think somewhere fairly quite like last time worked well?

Everyone seems positive about the book so far, phew 🙂 A lot of people have drawn comparisons to 50 first dates… evidentially I need to watch this movie!

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Manchester's Artistic Son on August 8, 2011 at 11:46 pm said:

First is good for me although I ain’t got my copy yet. I’m reading A kind of intimacy by Jenn Ashworth, but it’s rubbish. 😉 I hope BIGTS is good. I’m in need of a good book. Even though I just finished a great collection of short stories – by Amy Bloom. x

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- lubylou12 on August 11, 2011 at 4:32 pm said:
  
  I’m in need of a good book too, TGOST drained me : ) I’m reading Witch Light by Susan Fletcher next so fingers crossed.
  
  Reply ↓
SammyDee on August 11, 2011 at 2:16 pm said:

The 1st is ok by me. I really need to get hold of a copy. Anyone know where they’re going cheap?

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lubylou12 on August 11, 2011 at 4:34 pm said:

I need my copy too, unfortunately I think the library is the cheapest you’ll get, it’s quite new so everywhere is selling it at full price, I doubt charity shops will have it either : (

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- SammyDee on August 11, 2011 at 4:43 pm said:
  
  I checked the library – It has 20 reserves on it! I’d probably need to wait months!
  
  I’ve just bought it for the Kindle for about £4.85. They’ve brought the price down in the past few days.
  
  Reply ↓
- SammyDee on August 11, 2011 at 4:44 pm said:
  
  Tell you what I did buy at a charity shop though: The Wasp Factory. I hope it’s as good as I remember.
  
  Reply ↓
Manchester's Artistic Son on August 11, 2011 at 4:52 pm said:

I just got mine from the library D. but I had to order it and I only have two weeks because its already reserved. It looks good!!

Reply ↓
- SammyDee on August 11, 2011 at 5:16 pm said:
  
  Pah! I wanted a free copy 🙂 Not fair that you and Claire both got free copies and I had to pay. lol. At least I can share it with my mum.
  
  Reply ↓
SammyDee on August 12, 2011 at 10:00 am said:

Started reading BIGTS last night: If the opening chapters are anything to go by I think it’s going to be a good book. Good choice Lou. 🙂

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lubylou12 on August 12, 2011 at 10:15 am said:

I’m so glad your enjoying it! It’ll make a nice change if the next book group is a positive one 🙂 I went to an event the other night and SJ Watson was there discussing his book, very exciting. He talked about his inspiration for the book and the characters etc, I’ll bring my notes to book group 🙂

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- SammyDee on August 12, 2011 at 11:23 am said:
  
  Was it a private event or could we all have come? If it was open to the public too I would have liked to have been there. It would have been a good excuse for all the book club people to meet up, for those who could make it at least.
  
  If you find out about other events like it perhaps you could let us know so those who are available could try to meet up?
  
  Reply ↓
lubylou12 on August 12, 2011 at 11:29 am said:

This is the one I was telling you about at that the last book group? it was on the night when you had an event to attend so you weren’t able to come, unfortunatley no one could make it so I went alone but it would have been lovely to go with book group members. It’s simon from Savidge Reads who hosts the event so just keep checking his blog for updates as I know the next one is in September but not sure when as I’m away then.

I think Philipa Gregory is doing a talk soon but can’t remember when, if anyone is intersted I’ll post details.

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- SammyDee on August 12, 2011 at 11:37 am said:
  
  It was the Wici event the same night but my plus one was ill so I didn’t go. I could have come after all but I didn’t want to just turn up in case I was turned away. 😦
  
  Yes, please do post details for Philipa Gregory 🙂
  
  Reply ↓
  - lubylou12 on August 15, 2011 at 9:51 am said:
    
    Ah that’s such a shame, I really wanted someone to go with too but thought everyone was busy.
    
    I’ll email the details of the Philipa Gregory event once I have them 🙂
SammyDee on August 12, 2011 at 11:55 am said:

Hi Lou, Have you seen this weeks Booking Through Thursday? (Grab the closest book to you. Go to page 56. Copy the 5th sentence as your status). If you don’t mind I thought it might be fun to see what other book group members were reading via their ‘status’.

My status: That’s all I knew, but a lot of crying happened, so I decided to join in because it seemed quite fascinatingly dramatic and tragic.

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- lubylou12 on August 15, 2011 at 9:52 am said:
  
  Hi, I did notice it yeah, it’s a great idea. I’d love to hear everyone else’s.
  
  O I don’t know what it relates to…it’s not before I go to sleep is it?
  
  I’ll do mine soon.
  
  Reply ↓
  - SammyDee on August 15, 2011 at 12:31 pm said:
    
    Nope, last week it was Dawn French’s autobiography. I had it on my desk at work ready to be bookcrossed.
    
    Today’s status is from A Town Like Alice (Good book – read it yesterday. First published in 1950 so it isn’t PC but it is inspirational):
    
    “From Kuala Lumpur you go by train to Singapore, I think.”
    
    (It’s a promise that was spoken and broken by Japanese soldiers to one of the female prisoners. – The women and children prisoners of war were marched 1200 miles around Sumatra, rather than being held in a camp. Less than half survived. The book is fiction but is inspired by real events).
lubylou12 on August 19, 2011 at 1:21 pm said:

Was Dawn French books good? I’ve heard it is.

A Town Like Alice sounds amazing and I’ve had it recommended to me a few times, must read it! A possible summer holiday read.

Here’s mine;

‘meat did not sit well in my mouth, or my stomach. Poor Pig.’

That really doesn’t give much away does it? And the book is so good as well!

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- SammyDee on August 24, 2011 at 2:35 pm said:
  
  I wasn’t that keen on Dawn French’s book. I enjoyed it at first but it got a bit tedious. The time line jumps all over the place and her letters to Madonna are ridiculous. About half way through she reveals that she was sexually assaulted as children – but she wrote about it in such a light hearted way that it just made me feel sick. I couldn’t get back into it after that. It took me about a year to read the whole thing.
  
  Actually I agree that A Town Like Alice would make a good holiday read. Damn, I should have recommended that in response to your post. 🙂
  
  Reply ↓
lubylou12 on August 25, 2011 at 1:40 pm said:

Mm doesn’t seem like something I would like to be honest, I’m particular with autobiographies. Scar Tissue and My Booky Wook are still my fav’s I think.

Thanks for the recommendation : ) I’ll keep any eye out for it 🙂

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lubylou12 on August 25, 2011 at 1:42 pm said:

BOOK GROUP UPDATE

Hi guys, so the next book group is only a week away, very excited. Just to confirm that everyone can still make next Thursday? I’m thinking 6:30 somewhere in the Northern Quarter, location to TBC.

Is that ok with everyone? Hope your all enjoying the book, I’m going to have to do some speedy reading as I’m only getting my copy today!

Happy reading and hopefully I will still see you all next week x

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- SammyDee on August 25, 2011 at 1:47 pm said:
  
  6.30pm is fine by me. As soon as we have a location let me know so I can text Claire. x
  
  Reply ↓
- Manchester's Artistic Son on August 25, 2011 at 2:06 pm said:
  
  I read mine ages ago and took it back to the library but I’ll remember my basic feelings. I’d be happy with Bay horse again, but if there’s a few of us it might be nice to have somewhere else more lively to go after we’ve discussed book, the Bay horse was a bit too quiet, but wherever is fine. I’ve got to put the cat out, get from Leigh to somewhere with a train station, and clean myself up after work (I can’t get out of it this time) so I’ll probably be late but I’ll just catch up. I have very little to say about it actually, maybe bad books make better book clubs?
  
  Reply ↓
  - SammyDee on August 26, 2011 at 2:18 pm said:
    
    POTENTIAL SPOILER!
    
    DO NOT READ ON IF YOU HAVEN’T FINISHED THE BOOK!
    
    We can compare notes on who suspected the ending first. :-p I thought it might go another way – You know how I feel about open endings – I thought it could end in a way that really screws with your mind… More at the meeting.
lubylou12 on August 25, 2011 at 6:31 pm said:

I’m thinking Trof at the moment because hopefully we will be able to reserve the top room and plus they do snacks. Then if it’s a bit dead we can always move onto somewhere else. Any objections anyone?

No worries Dave, I don’t think everyone will be able to get there for dead on 6:30 anyway. I’ll get a drink in for you : )

I went to an event where SJ Watson was doing a Q and A recently so I have a few notes written down, I’ll bring them and hopefully they will give us some topics to start of with.

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- SammyDee on August 26, 2011 at 2:21 pm said:
  
  Sounds good to me. I’m really looking forward to it. Having read it I feel worse about not having gone to the Q & A. I wish I’d been there.
  
  Are you going to go right from work to reserve all the seats? I’ll get there as soon as I can.
  
  Reply ↓
lubylou12 on August 27, 2011 at 3:09 pm said:

I’m not going to read the other comment just yet because I’m only staring the book today : ) Thank you for the idea’s though.

I’ll give them a call and if they can’t reserve the seats I will try either the Bay Horse to start us of or maybe Odd?

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Dave Schofield on August 27, 2011 at 3:58 pm said:

Yeh my ‘pleasure-arc’ (I’m copywriting that phrase) went up and then sharply down at the ending, yeh tense sure, but meh. Discuss @the meeting.

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lubylou12 on August 30, 2011 at 1:17 pm said:

Hi guys,

I’m going to suggest The Bay Horse just to start of with, off course we can then move onto somewhere more lively. I’m just concerned that the Northern Quarter gets pretty busy on a Thursday and The Bay Horse is usually relatively quiet downstairs?

What does everyone think? If your all ok with that then see you there at 6:30…..p.s. really getting into the book, just about resisting reading the comments so far 🙂

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- SammyDee on August 30, 2011 at 3:24 pm said:
  
  I’m fine with that. Has everyone said they can still make it? Do we have any newbies this month?
  
  Reply ↓
lubylou12 on August 30, 2011 at 4:13 pm said:

Ijeoma is going to let me know,, last time I checked Dave is coming but might be a bit late, as far as I know Rebecca and Clare can still come, plus me and yourself : ) There is also a friend of mine called Holly who is coming, there was going to be another person and she has read the book but she can’t make it which is a shame!

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Claire on August 30, 2011 at 7:03 pm said:

Hiya, just to let you know I’m still coming along. Have we decided on the bay horse about 6.30 then?

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lubylou12 on August 31, 2011 at 9:40 am said:

Great news : ) Yep 6:30 at the Bay Horse. If anyone needs my telephone number to get in touch for directions or anything like that then just email me at lubystephenson@gmail.com

See you all tomorrow

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SammyDee on September 12, 2011 at 10:24 am said:

Hello, What date did we decide on for the next book club meeting?

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lubylou12 on September 13, 2011 at 4:23 pm said:

Ops, I’m sorry I can’t remember, forgot to write it down, did we say the 1st of Oct?

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Manchester's Artistic Son on September 13, 2011 at 7:48 pm said:

Seem to remember the sixth…………I’ve read the first 25 pages of Annabell and it’s beautifully written so I’m excited, but I have to read the very-dreadful French Lieutenant’s woman first, yuk, and some short stories and The Lonely Voice by Frank O’Connor, my course starts back on the 26th so I’m reading like mad. Glad to hear you had fun! x

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SammyDee on September 14, 2011 at 12:19 pm said:

October 6th is a Thursday so that would make sense. 🙂

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lubylou12 on September 14, 2011 at 1:41 pm said:

I’ve checked with Holly and Ijeoma and their all fine with the 6th so lets stick to that date : ) We just need to hear from Clare and then it should be full numbers apart from Rebecca who is on holiday.

I’ve started the book and can tell it will be a slow read but I am really enjyoing it and your right Dave it is beautifully written.

Ha why do you have to read the the French Lieutenant’s woman? I finally got round to reading some short stories, read Gigi by Collete, have you read it, really liked it!

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Manchester's Artistic Son on September 14, 2011 at 8:19 pm said:

For my course, which starts back soon, it was on the reading list as a postmodern classic, but it’s horrific, at least the first 50 pages are. I haven’t heard of Collette, will look it up, do you think it will be on the net?

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lubylou12 on September 15, 2011 at 9:39 am said:

Ah, nightmare, I hate having to read books I really don’t like, I can think of one book that comes to mind : )

If you look up Gigi and The Cat by Collete, I don’t know her surname because she only goes by her first name. She did loads of books and short stoires but Gigi is quite famous because they made a movie of it. I can lend you the book if you like, it’s only about 60 pages.

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Manchester's Artistic Son on September 15, 2011 at 9:01 pm said:

cool – please, I’d like to read it, I went online last night to see if it was free to read but no, I read her wiki page, I think Collette is her surname. Sounds good.

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lubylou12 on September 18, 2011 at 10:31 pm said:

Hope your all enjoying Annabel as much as I am, half way through, it’s amazing. See you all on the 6th x

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- Manchester's Artistic Son on September 18, 2011 at 11:42 pm said:
  
  I don’t want to speak prematurely, but, it’s a contender for the best book I’ve read this year, and I’ve read some good ones (and some utter shite).
  
  Reply ↓
SammyDee on September 19, 2011 at 10:54 am said:

I read 4 books this weekend but I haven’t picked Annabel up yet. I should probably get started. (I didn’t want to finish it too soon or I might forget what I want to say).

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lubylou12 on September 19, 2011 at 11:33 am said:

So glad your enjoying it Dave, I’m only half way through so I’m hoping my interest keeps but if it carries on like this I feel exactly the same, could be the best book this year!

Four books? wowsa! Your on a roll. Anything good?

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SammyDee on October 4, 2011 at 12:11 pm said:

Hello, I finally finished Annabel last night. Have you thought about a location for our meeting yet?

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Claire on October 4, 2011 at 1:39 pm said:

Hi All, Just letting you know I can’t make it to this weeks meeting. Its Dave’s birthday the following day so I have family popping round to drop off pressies etc on the Thursday. I have started Annabel though and will pop my comments onto Lou’s Review. Hope everyone has a great time. Let me know the next book choice and date. See You Soon C x

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- SammyDee on October 4, 2011 at 4:44 pm said:
  
  That’s a shame. We’ll miss you. Happy Birthday Dave! x
  
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lubylou12 on October 4, 2011 at 3:43 pm said:

Aw that’s such a shame, never mind, you’ll have to let me know what you think and I hope we see you at the next one.

For everyone else, it doesn’t look like were going to have a huge turn out, Rebecca is on holiday and Ijeoma is not sure yet she can make it, but it’s still me, Dave, Sammy Dee and Holly so should be good. What about Matt and Phreds, they have an offer; buy two drinks get a free pizza or buy a bottle of wine and get two (I think that’s it anyway).

People fancy that?

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- SammyDee on October 4, 2011 at 4:48 pm said:
  
  I haven’t been in Matt and Phreds since the smoking ban. 🙂 Drink and food sounds good to me. Same time as usual?
  
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savidgereads on October 4, 2011 at 10:15 pm said:

I need to get back in the loop with this one, sorry guys!

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lubylou12 on October 4, 2011 at 10:36 pm said:

yeah 6/6:30….Simon can you come, would be lovely if you could x

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Manchester's Artistic Son on October 4, 2011 at 11:05 pm said:

Hey, looking forward to another good one, 6pm? I’m in Manchester that afternoon after finishing my uni job early so see you there!
So I’m leaving the art till next month Lou?

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- lubylou12 on October 5, 2011 at 9:21 am said:
  
  6 works for me, shall we say 6pm in Matt and Phreds? Is that ok Dave, if it’s alright with you I’d be interested in buying one of your photographs as well but in November when I’ve got a little more money?
  
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SammyDee on October 5, 2011 at 3:07 pm said:

It will be 6:30 at the earliest for me. I hate arriving after everyone else – I feel like I’m missing out on something! lol. I’ll get there as quickly as I can.

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- lubylou12 on October 6, 2011 at 10:21 am said:
  
  Lol we wont start getting too booky before you come : ) Shall we just meet you in Matt and Phreds then?
  And Dave/Holly I’ll see you there at 6?
  
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  - SammyDee on October 6, 2011 at 10:44 am said:
    
    Yep, see you in Matt and Phreds.
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Manchester's Artistic Son on October 9, 2011 at 9:27 pm said:

Hey
Good meet on Thursday…Waiting with baited breath for the review! The weather has been dreadful this weekend, sitting in and reading has been my answer. Oh and Lou, after you asking me, I bought a DSLR Canon (fancy camera) hmmm, now I have no money! but it has been in the pipeline for a while. Have a good week everyone!

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- lubylou12 on October 10, 2011 at 2:27 pm said:
  
  I really enjoyed Thursday, thanks to all that came. I’m going to post my review this week, fingers crossed I’ll be able to get my own ambivalent feelings across. O soo jealous of the camera, can’t wait to see your snaps.
  
  Just so everyone else knows, these are the details of the next book group;
  
  November 3rd, location TBC, book Salem’s Lot by Stephen King – it’s Halloween so off course we had to have something scary!! Can everyone make it?
  
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  - SammyDee on October 10, 2011 at 9:24 pm said:
    
    I’ll be there – Looking forward to it already. 🙂
SammyDee on October 12, 2011 at 9:40 am said:

Has anyone else started reading Salem’s Lot yet? I’m half way through it already. So far I think this is the creepiest book I’ve ever read. 🙂 Roll on Halloween!

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- lubylou12 on October 13, 2011 at 9:47 am said:
  
  I got mine this morning, the cover is like nothing I’ve got in my collection. Can’t wait to start it. Are you enjoying it?
  
  O by the way SammyDee, you haven’t heard from Clare about whether she can come have you?
  
  Reply ↓
  - SammyDee on October 13, 2011 at 9:52 am said:
    
    I loved all the suspense in the first half. I hope the rest is as good. It’s got me in the mood for reading more Halloweeny books. Do you recommend any?
    
    I text Claire with all the details but no, I haven’t heard from her yet. I’m sure she’ll jump on nearer the time.
Claire on October 13, 2011 at 6:49 pm said:

Hiya.

November 3rd is good for me. Gutted I missed the last meeting and I missed seeing you Sammy Dee on the Friday Night for Dave’s Birthday !! I’ll get the book ordered. I’ve only read the Shining by Stephen King so Looking forward to Salems Lot. V Good Idea on the Horror theme for Halloween. We shall have to find somewhere suitably atmospheric for the meet also. 🙂

So what did people think of Annabel?

C x

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- Manchester's Artistic Son on October 14, 2011 at 12:46 am said:
  
  It was good Claire, it started with very beautiful prose and then died off a bit towards the end. The plot lacked any resolution really, and the great character build up early in the book was let down by wandering, obscure and indecisive characters later on. Overall a nice read but most of us wouldn’t suggest others read it.
  
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- SammyDee on October 14, 2011 at 12:05 pm said:
  
  Hiya Claire, I read the whole Dark Tower Series by Stephen King on Steve’s recommendation (7 books I think). I’m the one who suggested Stephen King so I really hope people enjoy it!
  
  There’s a horror themed restaurant / bar 1 mile up from the Northern Quarter. It’s called The Hellfire. It is closing down in the new year so I’m hoping people will be willing to give it a try before it shuts. If people don’t fancy walking the 1 mile we could fit 5 of us into a black cab. – Probably cost about £1-£1.50 each.
  
  As for Annabel – I enjoyed it although the ending was a little disappointing. We didn’t learn anything about how his life changed at college. Ok, so he ‘fit in’ visually, but we don’t learn about any relationships or how his friendships change and develop. I don’t know anyone who I would recommend the book to and it’s not one I’m tempted to leave in the book swap area at work.
  
  Did you finish it? What did you think?
  
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  - Claire on October 23, 2011 at 2:13 pm said:
    
    I’m still reading Annabel along with a few others as I’ll be honest I’m struggling a bit with Annabel and keep putting it down and reading other stuff instead. Oops. I’ll have read it by the 3rd as well as salem’s lot which I got from the library the other day.
    
    BTW Well Done on the blog Nomination.. Hope you had a good night at the awards ceremony. I hope it was terribly lavish and exciting.
- lubylou12 on October 17, 2011 at 2:16 pm said:
  
  That’s great news Clare, looking forward to seeing you at the next meet. A spooky venue sounds good to me. I haven’t read anything else by King so this is welcome first for me.
  
  Sorry I haven’t posted the review for Annabel yet, I’ve being so busy but I will be posting it today so will hold off in giving my thoughts yet and pop them in the post 🙂
  
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Manchester's Artistic Son on October 14, 2011 at 12:51 am said:

Sammy Dee:
other books which looked good on the list were the haunting of hill House, The Shining by SK, I am Legend by RM, Dracula by BS and a couple of others, just google scary reads I read loads of top tens and the same few kept springing up.
😉

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- SammyDee on October 14, 2011 at 11:50 am said:
  
  Thanks 🙂 I have the Shining and Dracula on my Kindle, plus Frankenstein – yes I know, I know, that Frankenstein is a let down after Dracula so I’ll make sure I get it out of the way first!
  
  After all the references to The Haunting of Hill House I want to read that one. I am Legend was a good film so I’d like to read that too. I imagine it would be very creepy. Hopefully I can get both from the library. I’ve spent so much on new books lately that I really need to hold back from buying more.
  
  You’ve recommended Rebecca a few times as well haven’t you? (Gothic novel?) Do you have a copy I could borrow? If not, that’ll be another one to add to the library list.
  
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  - Claire on October 23, 2011 at 2:15 pm said:
    
    Rebecca is brilliant. I also love the film especially on cold autumnal days where I can close the curtains. Snuggle down and drink endless cups of tea and feel all cosy.
SammyDee on October 18, 2011 at 11:17 am said:

Ladies and gentlemen – We want a spooky venue right? Well how about a Halloween tunnel tour to get us in the mood? I’ve put details on my deals and bargains page, but in brief it’s £12.50 for 75 minutes.

Blurb: “Lurking deep under one of Deansgate’s most famous buildings are chambers, recesses and hidden corners laid out in labyrinthine twists and turns. With a torch in hand qualified guides will escort you telling stories of civil war, of graveyards, of murder and of eccentric Mancunian characters. There’ll be darkness and Halloween thrills galore.”

You just know there will be people down there ready to jump out at us!

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- lubylou12 on October 18, 2011 at 12:51 pm said:
  
  That sounds really good Danielle, the only thing is can everyone afford it?
  
  What does everyone think? If everyone is up for it then that would be cool but if it’s half and half maybe people could go then we could meet at a pub close by afterwards? I’ll also seek out some bars that will be done up for the occasion to add to the atmosphere!
  
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  - SammyDee on October 18, 2011 at 1:05 pm said:
    
    It is a bit steep – I’ve seen them do the same tour for half that price but they’re doing it at full price for Halloween. I’ve no doubt they will sell out regardless.
    
    Also the dates might be an issue – We’re due to meet on the 3rd November but that date is sold out. If we were going to do it we would need to go before the end of October.
    
    … Lots of negatives but I thought I’d throw it out there anyway. 😀
    
    Have I mentioned this week that I love Halloween? Yes? I thought so!
lubylou12 on October 18, 2011 at 2:42 pm said:

Ha I can tell you love Halloween but that’s a good thing!! I’ve only had the chance to ask Holly and Rebecca so far and both aren’t sure they can afford it, lets see what everyone else thinks and then decide, we can always move it forward if people want to do it provided it still gives a reasonable time frame to read the book. At the moment I’m in the band of people of not being able to a afford it. I don’t have a penny to my name.

I’m happy though to meet after the tour in a bar somwhere and we can start the discussion then?

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- SammyDee on October 18, 2011 at 2:51 pm said:
  
  No worries. I just thought there was no harm in mentioning it. 🙂
  
  For a venue on November 3rd how about the Hellfire? Do people have any thoughts on that? It’s only a mile away but we could share a taxi there for about £1 each.
  
  The Printworks will be decorated for Halloween. They have some great things for students – Such a pitty I’m not one!
  
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  - lubylou12 on October 18, 2011 at 3:23 pm said:
    
    It was a great idea, thanks for mentioning it and if people wont to do it could definitely still happen. Just some of us might have to meet after.
    
    Hellfire could also be a winner, I’ll check the menu know for prices, I guess the beauty with that place is that anyone lacking funds could just get a snack? What is the actual date of Halloween by the way?
  - SammyDee on October 18, 2011 at 3:36 pm said:
    
    Halloween is Monday 31rd – so just under 2 weeks away.
    
    From what I remember the cheapest main courses at the Hellfire is about £8.95. Too expensive? However, starters cost around £5 each (options include soup, ribs, meatballs and crumpets) so we could have them as light snacks. Sides are just £1.95 and desserts are about £4.
    
    The best part is, at Hellfire it’s Halloween all year round! (in case people need slightly longer to read the book. It is a biggy!)
lubylou12 on October 18, 2011 at 4:34 pm said:

To be honest that sounds a lot better, I can’t afford a big meal but I can afford a starter and drink and if other people strapped for cash feel the same then this could be a good comprimise.

Lets give it a few days and see what others think and when we have some definite answers we can look into booking!

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Manchester's Artistic Son on October 18, 2011 at 6:14 pm said:

Hi
Sounds like the restaurant makes more sense than the tunnel tour considering peoples finances. I just saw Sammy Dee’s Greek restaurant deal, but it isn’t really scary (unless I force people with ‘do something someone makes me do’ clauses in their project day zero, to belly dance to a full room! then it would be scary(for that person!) I’m up for whatever, but have just recieved the book and have to read Motherless Brooklyn first! xx

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- SammyDee on October 19, 2011 at 1:58 pm said:
  
  Lol. You’re evil! Poor Lou! 😛 (She’d probably be good at it!)
  
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lubylou12 on October 19, 2011 at 10:41 am said:

Sounds good to me!

Is the 3rd ok for everyone or is it too soon given it’s a big book? I’m only asking because a few people have mentioned that the book took a while to come and are worried about time? I’m happy to keep the original date, just checking?

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- SammyDee on October 19, 2011 at 1:57 pm said:
  
  I’ve finished but I don’t mind pushing it back if that’s better for people. I think I’d prefer if people actually have time to enjoy reading the book rather than rushing it.
  
  I’m probably going to go on holiday at some point soon so there’s a slight possibility that I won’t be available whatever date we decide. (We normally book with only 48 to 72 hours before we fly so I have no idea of dates yet). I’m having a holiday sometime between now and Christmas – That’s as much as I can confirm! It might clash, it might not, who knows. 🙂
  
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  - Claire on October 23, 2011 at 2:20 pm said:
    
    I’m happy with the date too ( although also happy to change too to a more mid month meet. ( for payday reasons) and Hellfire sounds good to me.
Manchester's Artistic Son on October 19, 2011 at 8:53 pm said:

All sounds good to me, I’ll get reading it soon!

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SWBVR on October 20, 2011 at 4:08 pm said:

Hey! I’ve been looking to join a book group, and to be honest, when I came accross this one a couple of months ago i didn’t really look any further because I was looking for a real ‘in the flesh’ group, and assumed this one was just an online group??? Aaaanyway, I met Sammy last night, and she was telling me about you guys .. I said I’d love to join but am very conscious that I have a pile of shiney new books at home that I’m dying to read, and life keeps getting in the way …. she’s *just* told me that one of the possible contenders for the next book is ‘When God Was A Rabbit’!?! Well, that’s one that i’ve been trying to make time to read (I’ve read the first page, about four times already!!) so if you do decide on that one, then I’ll discipline myself and have it read by the time you meet for that one, if you’ll have me!?! 🙂

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- lubylou12 on October 20, 2011 at 4:15 pm said:
  
  Hi there, off course you would be very welcome, it’s a more the merrier kind of group and were always looking to meet new people 🙂
  
  Maybe if it’s cool with everyone else When God Was a Rabbit can be our next book? We could read that as November’s read, what does everyone else think?
  
  Your also very welcome to join us for the next date which is November the 3rd, we are reading Salem’s Lot?
  
  Thanks again for getting in touch
  
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  - SWBVR on October 20, 2011 at 8:14 pm said:
    
    excellent! I will get to work on it! I have so little time to read at the moment, it takes me forever to get from start to finish! Can you drop me a mail when you have a date/location etc for the Dec meeting? I’m not sure if i’ll make the Nov meeting, i definitely won’t be able to consume a Stephen King novel between now and then!!
    Look forward to meeting you all!! 🙂
  - SammyDee on October 21, 2011 at 9:49 am said:
    
    I bought When God Was a Rabbit last month so that’s good for me too. 🙂 Glad you’ve decided to join us SWBVR.
lubylou12 on October 21, 2011 at 9:53 am said:

Great news 🙂 Yep no worries, I’ll email you after we’ve met on the 3rd of November and decided on the next date. What’s your email, or do you want to email me at lubystephenson@gmail.com so I have yours?

Looking forward to meeting you too.

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- Claire on October 23, 2011 at 2:21 pm said:
  
  How exciting a new member. Welcome SWBVR!!
  
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  - lubylou12 on November 7, 2011 at 10:40 pm said:
    
    Hi Claire, are you able to make this Thursday still?
  - claire on November 9, 2011 at 7:44 pm said:
    
    Hi Lou,
    
    Am gutted – Just found out that I have to work late tomorrow cos half my team from work are off ill with Flu. Bah!! So Not sure what time I’m gonna be leaving. Sorry. Hope you all have a good meet. C x
  - lubylou12 on November 10, 2011 at 9:17 am said:
    
    Thanks Clare, I’ll let you know the date of the next one if you want to come.
lubylou12 on October 31, 2011 at 9:41 am said:

Hi guys,

Hope your all well, firstly sorry I’ve been VERY quiet blog wise recently, had quite a bit on and haven’t been able to get near my blog.

Secondly I’m very sorry but I’m going to have to be a big pain and change the date of book group, I’ve just found out I have a college deadline for next Monday and I’m literally going to hauled up in my room for the next week trying to do it. I’m really sorry to change so soon and mess people around but can people do next Thursday the 10th? Or any other date next week other than Wednesday (I have college till 9).

Again I’m really sorry but I just wont get the book read by then with all the boring college reading I need too do. What does everyone think of that date? I know Holly/Rebecca and Ijeoma should be ok with it, think they were struggling to get it finished by Thursday. I also know Danielle couldn’t make it anyway as she is on holiday but Dave/Claire how bout you guys?

Also SWBVR looking forward to meeting you at the next book group!

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Manchester's Artistic Son on October 31, 2011 at 3:09 pm said:

I can cope with that.
😉
In SD’s absence are we still going to try for hellfire or something more toned down? I’d be up for food again if others are, I only work till 3pm now on Thursdays so anytime is good for me.
Good luck with your assignment Lou!
Dave

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- lubylou12 on October 31, 2011 at 4:40 pm said:
  
  Phew, thanks Dave! Im easy on Hellfire, I’m quite skint at the moment so will happily do either, food was a good shout last time but maybe somewhere cheaper than Hellfire?
  
  Ok cool next Thursday it is. Have you finished it yet Dave? Thanks, need it, left it to the last minute as always and know I’m getting worried bout finishing it, eek!
  
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Manchester's Artistic Son on October 31, 2011 at 10:16 pm said:

yeh, cheap’s fine. I haven’t started it if it makes you feel better Lou. I put it aside to start today tomorrow and wednesday, but I’ve got a bit more freedom now. I did notice my copy is falling apart though, doh. How do you fancy being a model the weekend after the meet then? If the weather is okay i could meet you for a coffee during the day, show off my new camera. I’ll speak to you then, I think SD really wanted to go to hellfire, it feels a bit rude almost if we still go without her. not that she’ll get the chance now since it’s going to close, but I won’t mind not having to dress up. We could see if there’re any two-for-ones going, midweek specials etc. I keep seeing them but I keep forgetting where! x

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- lubylou12 on November 3, 2011 at 10:49 am said:
  
  It does kinda make me feel better but then your a fast reader and I read like a snail : )
  
  I would love to be a model : ) What weekend is that, the 18th? Can’t wait.
  
  Yeah I was thinking that, it doe seem a bit rude, she really, really wanted to go. Maybe we could do the next one there when Sammy Dee is back, that’s if it’s still open.
  
  Food sounds really good, I’ll keep my eye’s peeled!
  
  See you all on the 10th of November x
  
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Manchester's Artistic Son on November 3, 2011 at 6:00 pm said:

Interestingly that’s the night they turn the Christmas lights on in town!

12th 13th would be the weekend I mean if the Thursday is the 10th?

I Would have stopped reading Salem’s Lot, if I’m honest, if it hadn’t been for the BC as it is I’m only on page 45. poo. I had to put it down when the baby was getting punched in the face. Yuk.
How are the non-internet savvy gang getting on with it? Is everyone up for the meet? See you. x

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- lubylou12 on November 4, 2011 at 9:30 am said:
  
  That could be quite fun if we pick a venue near there?
  
  I would love to do it that weekend but I’m back in Newcastle : ( Free every other weekend though?
  
  O really, are you not enjoying it? Apparently it takes a while to get into, I’m struggling a bit too. Holly loves it so she’s definitely up for it and Rebecca has said yes although I don’t know how far she’s got with it. Hope Clare likes it too.
  
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  - Manchester's Artistic Son on November 4, 2011 at 1:04 pm said:
    
    I’m still trying with Salems lot. Well this weekend, or the weekend 19th-20th then, I don’t mind I’m free after lunch tomorrow or Sunday morning but don’t know how gloomy it’s going to be. As long as the weather’s good. We could pick a venue anywhere and either meet at the light switch-on before, or nip down after depending when it is. I think it might be too busy to find a venue right near the square. Is it Albert Square? I don’t even know but I know it gets packed. I don’t know who’s turning them on, I’ll find out.
- SammyDee on November 9, 2011 at 6:19 pm said:
  
  I have so much to say on the child abuse chapter and the other stories on the run up to the main story – but I’m not going to be at the BC to tell you my opinion. 😦 (frustrating) Stick with it. It’s there for a good reason. I’ll tell you my ideas after Lou writes her review and we can discuss it online then instead.
  
  Is everyone else hating the book or have others got into it? Are you enjoying it yet Lou or are you still too busy to pick it up?
  
  What date have you decided on for the BC now?
  
  I enjoyed the book. I hope others did too.
  
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  - lubylou12 on November 10, 2011 at 9:15 am said:
    
    Hi Sammy Dee,
    
    Sorry I’ve not being in touch because I thought you were on holiday, confused, when do you go? I managed to get into at the end and really quite enjoyed it, the BG is tonight, can you make it? Totally understand if you can’t just checking : ) Can’t wait to hear your thoughts either way. The childabuse bit was quite horrific but your right it does serve a purpose!
  - SammyDee on November 11, 2011 at 4:42 pm said:
    
    Hey Lou, Sorry for the confusion. I’ll email you. 😉
lubylou12 on November 4, 2011 at 1:24 pm said:

Holly has told me to tell you to stick with Salem’s lot because apparently it gets really good! : ) I do hope that’s true. The weekend of the 19th would be good for me if that’s ok? Could go and grab a coffee after?

I’ll research the lights and see what everyone thinks but it would be good to see them before or after book group.

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- SammyDee on November 9, 2011 at 6:27 pm said:
  
  Have you ever seen the lights switch on before? The ‘show’ prior is pretty awful but it’s worth going along to watch the lights and fireworks in time to music. We normally go to one of the local bars and just come up for the lights. The show starts at 18.30 but I think the lights and fireworks are closer to 19:30 or 20:00. There are several pubs quite close that would be good for the BC. Have fun! x
  
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lubylou12 on November 11, 2011 at 10:16 am said:

*BOOK GROUP UPDATE*

Hi guys the next book group will be on the 8th of November and we are reading When God Was A Rabbit. I hope you can all make it, would be great to have one last festive book group before the New Year! Location TBC but a jaunt to the Christmas markets has being suggested.

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- Manchester's Artistic Son on November 11, 2011 at 6:16 pm said:
  
  I’m in.
  I reckon a quick mulled wine and then find a warm pub to chat! I’ll order the book over the weekend! yey.
  
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Manchester's Artistic Son on November 24, 2011 at 5:48 pm said:

How are people getting on with the book, I bought it off Amazon for £3.85 because my local library didn’t have it, so i’ll start reading it next week, don’t know anything about it, have people enjoyed it?

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- lubylou12 on November 25, 2011 at 9:18 am said:
  
  Holly has started it and loves it. She’s only 60 or so pages in but apparently she can’t put it down. I’ve just received my copy but I’m still working my way through The Lovely Bones which is amazing but very sad!!
  
  How is your reading going Dave?
  
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SammyDee on November 25, 2011 at 4:54 pm said:

Hello everyone! I’m back and I’m insanely busy (which is why I’ve not been in touch with anyone. Sorry.) 😦

I’ve already bought the book and will start reading it soon, I hope. I’m part way through three other books but I don’t have time to pick any of them up at the moment. I’ll try to start WGWAR this weekend. Please tell me it’s a quick read!

I’m looking forward to our groups trip to the Christmas Markets. Florida was very Christmassy already so I’ve come back in full Christmas spirit. x

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- lubylou12 on November 27, 2011 at 6:29 pm said:
  
  Hi Sammydee, lovely to hear that your back, how was your holiday? Hope you had a nice time?! Sounds like your having a busy time! Don’t worry it’s quite a short book and I think it’s a fairly easy read (I haven’t actually started it myself yet, ops).
  
  I’m really looking forward to it. Is the 8th still ok with everyone?x
  
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  - SammyDee on December 5, 2011 at 10:18 am said:
    
    Wow! Work just won’t let up! I’ve totally neglected my blog for about 6 weeks now and I don’t have time to reply to my emails either. 😦 We can all catch up on Thursday though, right?
    
    I’ve only read about 140 pages so far – so just less than half way. I’m helping a friend move house tonight and I’m in meetings after work tomorrow so that leaves me with Wednesday to read half a book. I’ll be at the meeting even if it means I have to cover my ears to not hear how it ends. 🙂
    
    See you all on the 8th! x
lubylou12 on December 5, 2011 at 10:14 am said:

*BOOK GROUP UPDATE*

Hi guys, so it’s nearly time for our next book group. Can you believe it’s the last this year? I was just looking for an idea of who can and can’t make it?

I know Ijeoma/Holly and Rebecca should all be attending. Danielle/Dave/Clare/SWBVR – can you still come? Plus we might have one more new member.

I was thinking lets meet between 5:30 – 6 depending on when people can make it? I’m going to suggest a bar near the xmas markets so we can start of the evening having a good chin way about the book and then hopefully hop over to the markets for some mulled wine and festive treats?

There is a bar quite near by but I’m having a blonde moment but I’ll find out and get back to you all…does all that sounds agreeable for people?

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- SammyDee on December 5, 2011 at 10:33 am said:
  
  I’m coming but I won’t be able to make it for 5:30. Realistically I won’t get there before 6:30. The book discussion will probably be finished by the time I arrive. Lol. At least I’ll be there in time for the Christmas drinks! 😀
  
  If I’d have my brain in gear a month ago I should have suggested a Secret Santa. (E.g. we all could have brought a book wrapped up – wouldn’t need to be new – second hand / charity shop books would be ideal to keep the costs low.
  
  It’s too short notice to do it now but maybe we can do one next year? 12 months notice is better than 3 days notice…
  
  Reply ↓
  - lubylou12 on December 5, 2011 at 10:55 am said:
    
    Sorry Sammy Dee I didn’t see your message until I had sent my own : )
    
    That’s ok, I’m sure we can hold of on talking about the book till you get there. I know Ijeoma has to get a way for 7 so maybe if we all meet about 5:45, get some drinks then wait for you to get there at half past before we really get stuck into discussing the book/
    
    That’s a brillant idea. I wish I’d though of that!! O well I guess we have next year. Feels like ages since I last saw you all, roll on Thursday x
SWBVR on December 5, 2011 at 11:55 am said:

Hi guys .. I had this date in my diary as soon as it was announced, but something’s come up that i can’t really get out of – a kid i’m mentoring is doing a presentation on Thursday evening and has asked me to go along for support, i couldn’t justify saying no to him 😦

Don’t discount me though, I’d still like to try and keep up with you all!

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- lubylou12 on December 5, 2011 at 12:57 pm said:
  
  Hi SWBVR, that’s a shame but don’t worry if you can’t make it, I’ll keep you in the loop about the next one : ) I don’t think we’ve decided on the next book yet so if you want to put forward an idea then just let me know and I’ll add it to the suggestions we discuss on Thursday.
  
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Manchester's Artistic Son on December 5, 2011 at 2:14 pm said:

I’m in.
Do you mean the Slug and Lettuce?
I can make any time really, in term time I finsh work at 4pm so it’s fine.
Only 80 pages in though so agghhh.
See ya

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- lubylou12 on December 5, 2011 at 2:24 pm said:
  
  No, I think it’s called the hanging gas lamp, it’s about five mintues from the market, it’s never too busy which means we should be able to talk and it’s quiet a cool little bar : )
  
  Ha I’m the same, 84 pages in, ah! Well at least it will be fresh in our minds, it’s a quick, easy read. See you all Thursday x
  
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  - SammyDee on December 5, 2011 at 2:52 pm said:
    
    Do you mean the Gaslamp on Bridge Street? (http://the-gaslamp.tumblr.com/) Or the Hanging Ditch near the Triangle? (It’s a wine shop and a pub I think – Never been). There are 9 different markets between the town hall and the Triange. Which one are we going to?
    
    Sounds like you two have as much reading to do as I do. 😀 Glad I’m not the only one!
  - lubylou12 on December 5, 2011 at 3:43 pm said:
    
    I meant the gaslamp. Ah what a blonde moment! Do you think that would be a good location?
    
    I was going to suggest the big one but if anyone has a preference I really don’t mind. Your definitely not, I’m having a ‘so many books such little time’ moment. It’s really frustrating.
  - SammyDee on December 7, 2011 at 9:45 pm said:
    
    It’s 9.30 pm (ish) the night before our meet and I still have half the book to read. Arrgh! It wouldn’t be so bad if I wasn’t feeling sleepy after having had more than a couple of sneaky xmas drinks 😉 Foolish move! See you tomorrow.
lubylou12 on December 8, 2011 at 9:21 am said:

Aw bless you, sleep reading isn’t fun! I’m really looking forward to book group but annoyingly a mild cold has turned into a horrendous one and I feel terrible so it will hot lemsips for me tonight and not mulled wine : (

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SammyDee on December 9, 2011 at 1:06 pm said:

Thanks for another fun book club meeting Lou. I’m looking forward to the next one.

Even if we don’t discuss the next book until February’s meeting hopefully we can all meet up for a post New Year catch up in January too.

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Manchester's Artistic Son on December 9, 2011 at 1:22 pm said:

Here Here. sorry I didn’t say anything very constructive apart from ranting, please don’t mention my child abuse/middle class values rant! just say I agreed with everyone!!

I’m off for three weeks because I work in education whoo!! so y’all get in touch if there’s anything fun happening. I’m up for a January meet, non-bookish. I hate january, it’s my least favourite month!! 😉

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lubylou12 on December 9, 2011 at 2:29 pm said:

Hi guys,

I’d definitely be up for that, I really want to go ice skating, does anyone fancy that in Jan before the rink goes, we could go for drinks after?

Dave don’t worry you always contribute loads. It’s good to get a diverse mix of opinions and a lot of the points you raised made me look at certain things differntly. The review will be up this afternoon.

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- Manchester's Artistic Son on December 11, 2011 at 11:35 pm said:
  
  hmm, after seeing it when we were there I lost my bottle a bit, although I’m eager to do these things I’ve never done. I’d be up for a trip out. I kinda have lots of free time over xmas ;-p Maybe a photo trip too if it’s not too dreadful a month, January 2011 was awful. ghastly snow and rain and all sorts. HAPPY CHRISTMAS to everyone though if we’re not getting together till then. Ar you planning a Christmassy blog post lou? I’ll try and read northern lights over the holiday too, when I’ve done the Wasp Factory.
  
  Reply ↓
  - lubylou12 on December 12, 2011 at 10:10 am said:
    
    Ha you’ll love it Dave, we may all end up falling over and making fools out of ourselves but that’s part of the fun : )
    
    I’d defintely be up for that and the photography day, I’ll check when I’m free and get in touch with everyone.
    
    I haven’t really got in the Xmas mood yet but when I do I might do something. I’m looking for some Christmas reading inspiration if anyone can help? Although I started Fingersmith yesterday and so far it’s amazing! Thanks for giving me it again.
dave schofield on December 12, 2011 at 7:41 pm said:

Whoop, knew you’d love fingersmith xxxx

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lubylou12 on December 16, 2011 at 9:41 am said:

*BOOK GROUP UPDATE*

Hi guys, I forgot to send an update in respect of our next meet. The next book group will be February 2nd. Were leaving it a little while just to give people a chance to read the book which is a bit of a whopper. The book we are is reading Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon.

Hope you can all make it, I’ll be in touch nearer the time to discuss location etc. For those interested in a pre or post xmas drink get in touch and for everyone else MERRY CHRISTMAS : )
x

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Manchester's Artistic Son on December 16, 2011 at 3:21 pm said:

Yey!
Wow what a great day!
I love your new blog-look!
I’m in for any pre or post things – apart from Tuesday I can do anytime between now and Christmas Eve, and apart from new years eve I can do anytime after depending on trains and weather. Xxxxxx

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- SammyDee on December 16, 2011 at 3:30 pm said:
  
  Stop rubbing it in that you have all the time in the world! I can’t even manage to publish a guest blog and you’re bragging about all your free time! 😛
  
  I fancy going ice-skating too – but I’m working every day so it would depend on whether you planned to go late afternoon or not. If you plan a meet keep me posted.
  
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  - Manchester's Artistic Son on December 16, 2011 at 5:14 pm said:
    
    Well when somebody was swanning around the world in October and November I was collecting nuts for the winter, so now I can rest. there’s a fable in there somewhere. xx
lubylou12 on December 17, 2011 at 6:00 pm said:

I’m insanely jealous of your time off Dave!! One night after work could be a good shout, I’m free this Tuesday after work about half 6?

P.s. Thanks Dave, I loved the Autumn one but it just seemed irrelevant given how cold it is outside.

How are you getting on Sammy Dee, still crazy busy? 😦

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- Manchester's Artistic Son on December 18, 2011 at 3:39 pm said:
  
  Yeah i changed my banner to a christmas scene since the countryside is so icy I had loads. Tuesday’s the only one I can’t do like I said but if that’s best for others I’ll catch up after xmas, let me know. xx
  
  Reply ↓
  - lubylou12 on December 19, 2011 at 11:23 am said:
    
    I’ll check it out, although I’ve been having a few problems trying to get on your site when from a certain PC. It takes about 5 minutes to open your blog? Just thought I’d let you know. It’s the same with the Cutaway site. It’s fine from my laptop though?! Very strange.
    
    Sorry I didn’t read my messages very well when I suggested Tuesday. I’m bsy all week with the run up to Xmas but I’m back in Manchester next Wed and free from then on 🙂
Manchester's Artistic Son on December 20, 2011 at 11:59 pm said:

Hey you girls might be happy to know I’m back gardening – so not just sitting in front of the fire eating mince pies while you’re working, I’m knee deep in mud in the rain. 😉

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- lubylou12 on December 21, 2011 at 11:03 am said:
  
  Ha that fills me with festive joy : ) Only kidding, cannot believe your out in that weather!! It’s awful outside!!
  
  Reply ↓
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Manchester's Artistic Son on January 2, 2012 at 11:18 am said:

Hey
Just thought I’d mention for those not purchased yet – The Shadow of the Wind is £1.30 on Amazon inc. PP
xx

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- lubylou12 on January 3, 2012 at 9:38 am said:
  
  Hi Dave,
  
  Thanks for getting in touch. I have my copy and I think Ijeoma and Holly do but I’ll mention it to Rebecca. Thanks for letting us all know 🙂
  
  Have youu started it yet? I’ve just picked up Ask The Dust by John Fante and then I’ll read it.
  
  Reply ↓
- SammyDee on January 3, 2012 at 10:31 am said:
  
  Wow, great price. And I thought I got a bargain. (£2 ish)
  
  Reply ↓
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Meeta on January 15, 2012 at 1:23 pm said:

Hello I would like to join book group. David Scofield put a note up on facebook and I’d like to join! I work away a lot so I always need a good book suggestion. I hope I’ll be around for future meets, won’t be able to make the Feb one. Hope you’ll allow a part-timer join you!

Meeta (m_thaker@hotmail.com)

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- lubylou12 on January 16, 2012 at 10:57 am said:
  
  Hi Meeta,
  
  Off course the more the merrier. Were always very happy to welcome new members. Part time is fine too. After our next meet on the 2nd of Feb I will email you and let you know what date has been decided for March’s meet and what book were reading.
  
  Are there any days during the week that are a no go for you? And also please feel free to suggest a book for March and I’ll add it to the list.
  
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SWBVR on January 17, 2012 at 11:48 am said:

Hello all .. it looks like I am destined never to join this book group, Not only have I been trundeling through the same book since the beginning of december but also I never seem to be able to attend any of your meets… I will keep an eye on this though, and will certainly keep it on my to-do list! Perhaps I should suggest a book I’ve already read so that i can stand a chance of actually joining someday!!! No .. no, I know, that’s cheating! 😉

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- lubylou12 on January 18, 2012 at 4:08 pm said:
  
  Hey SWBVR, We’d still love you to come. The book were reading for the Feb meet is a beast so I wouldn’t worry that you haven’t had a chance to read it. Ha it’s only slightly cheating and if it means you get to try the book group why don’t you suggest some books and we’ll discuss them at Feb’s meet and maybe pick one as our next book. Do you reckon you could make it in March if it was a book you’d already read?
  
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  - SammyDee on January 18, 2012 at 4:55 pm said:
    
    It is a beast isn’t it?! lol. How far in are you? I’m about a third through it. Are you enjoying it so far? What have the others said about it so far?
  - lubylou12 on January 18, 2012 at 4:57 pm said:
    
    I’m not too far in, 150 pages maybe, I love it so far but left it at home the other day and haven’t been back for a few days. Are you enjoying it?
Robyn on January 20, 2012 at 6:47 pm said:

Hello! I hope you don’t mind me chipping in but I’ve been looking for a book group to join for yonks and (via a rather circuitous route) I’ve found you! I live a bit outside the city centre but the groups near me are either inactive or look a bit, well, scary. Do you think I might be able to join you?

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- SammyDee on January 20, 2012 at 9:16 pm said:
  
  Yay another newbie! Of course you can join us! 😀 OK so this is LubyLou’s group so I should really let her reply. Lol
  
  We’re reading The Shadow of the Wind. have you heard of it? It’s a big one – about 500 pages. I’m about a third into it.
  
  What type of books do you enjoy reading Robyn?
  
  Reply ↓
- Manchester's Artistic Son on January 20, 2012 at 9:31 pm said:
  
  Whooo!
  New member!
  Try to read the shadow of the wind, it’s really easy to read and I bet your local library has it. I’m about 25 miles out of the centre, where are you?
  I’m 200 pages in Sammy Dee and I love it!!!
  
  Reply ↓
  - Robyn on January 21, 2012 at 12:07 pm said:
    
    Aw thanks for the warm welcome guys!
    
    I’ve actually read Shadow of the Wind although it was several years ago. I really loved it. I am sure I will be able to find a copy and re-read it. Yay!
    
    SammyDee – I am really a general book fan – I’ll read just about anything (except chick lit) but I suppose my absolute favourites are big beautiful period epics like 100 Years of Solitude and Wild Swans. Or indeed Shadow of the Wind!
    
    MAS – I’m not that far out of town! I just live in Firswood, so a few tramstops out. I used to live in the Northern Quarter and sometimes I really miss it, but over the 5 years I was there it just got really busy and noisy at night (or I got old!) so moved out to semi-suburbia.
    
    Really excited about reading some great books and meeting some new people 🙂
  - SammyDee on January 24, 2012 at 11:13 am said:
    
    Hi Robyn, I’ll read virtually anything except chic lit too, although I do occasionally read them to be polite when someone insists on lending them to me. 🙂 (That’s my excuse and I’m sticking to it!)
    
    Since finding this book club and Lou’s I Hug My Books blog my ‘to be read’ list has increased dramatically. I love reading Lou and Dave’s (MAS) recommendations and I’m constantly downloading more books for my Kindle because it’s so easy to do. I tend to get carried away in charity shops as well – coming away with half a dozen books at a time.
    
    I think me, Dave and Lou (and Claire) are the biggest readers in the group and we’re also the ones who comment online most often. The others save their book discussions for when we meet in person. Everyone’s really nice – I’m glad we don’t come across as scary!
- lubylou12 on January 26, 2012 at 1:08 pm said:
  
  Hi Robyn,
  
  I’m really sorry for the late response. I haven’t had a chance to log on to my blog for a while but it’s great to come back and see that we have someone else interested in joining us. Off course you are very welcome to join the book group. It looks like the guys below have given you a better understanding of how it works. Would you like to attend next Thursday’s meeting or would you rather wait till our March meet?
  
  Either way we’d be happy to have you join us! : )
  
  Reply ↓
  - Robyn on January 26, 2012 at 2:22 pm said:
    
    Hi Lou – thanks for getting back to me 🙂 If it’s ok with you and the other guys, could I pop along on Thurs? I have managed to pick up a copy of SOTW from the library and I’ve read it before so I should be able to do enough “revision” to at least follow the discussion even if I don’t contribute a huge amount. Would that be ok?
Manchester's Artistic Son on January 24, 2012 at 3:12 pm said:

You probably don’t wanna see this SD else your TBR will get longer.
http://www.whichbook.net/#q7=1&q6=2&q4=7&q3=2&cmd=search&search-type=1&audio=0&ebook=0&lp=0

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- SammyDee on January 26, 2012 at 4:19 pm said:
  
  Sorry, no time to reply… Too busy looking at the website!
  
  Reply ↓
lubylou12 on January 26, 2012 at 1:12 pm said:

Hey guys,

Thanks for filling Robyn in with book group info. Not long now till the next meet : ) I’m thinking Matt and Phred’s next week. Pizza, wine books and off course my book quiz!!

P.S. We potentially have two new members joining us in March x

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- lubylou12 on January 26, 2012 at 3:02 pm said:
  
  Off course, we’d love to have you there, thanks for making the effort to re read it as wel : ) I’m looking forward to seeing what everyone thinks of it. Are you ok with the location, Matt and Phred’s? We usually meet about 5:30-6ish?
  
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  - SammyDee on January 26, 2012 at 4:12 pm said:
    
    5:30-6ish? It gets earlier and earlier! Only kiding (ish!) I’ll be there from 6:30 or there abouts, as usual.
  - lubylou12 on January 26, 2012 at 4:15 pm said:
    
    Hi Sammy Dee,
    
    We can make it later but I thought that was the usual time. Would 6/6:30 be better for people?
Manchester's Artistic Son on January 26, 2012 at 4:24 pm said:

Cool. I’ll be there. I have a feeling I’m off next Thursday for a change so I will be there whenever you want. 😉

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Robyn on January 26, 2012 at 4:30 pm said:

Matt and Phred’s sounds great and happy to go with the consensus re time – I work for myself so I can just hop on the tram whenever really 🙂

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lubylou12 on January 27, 2012 at 1:11 pm said:

Cool lets say 6 at Matt and Phreds for those that want to get down a bit early or for those that finish work at 5, but we’ll actually begin at 6:30….does that work for everyone?

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Robyn on January 27, 2012 at 2:33 pm said:

Great for me, thank you – really looking forward to it!

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- lubylou12 on January 29, 2012 at 2:46 pm said:
  
  Looking forward to it to Robyn, and looking forward to meeting you : )
  
  Reply ↓
SammyDee on January 30, 2012 at 4:06 pm said:

That’s fine by me. I haven’t heard from Claire though.

I still have a fifth of the book to read! I hope to finish it off tonight. How is everyone else getting on with it?

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Robyn on February 2, 2012 at 10:38 am said:

Hey chaps. I’m soooo sorry but I’m going to have to bail on my first ever book group meet. Gutted 😦 I’ve had a really nasty coldy-sore-throaty thing for the last few days and was hoping I’d be better by now but, alas, I’m not.

Ironically, not being very well has given me loads of time to (re)read the book and I’d be really interested to hear what you thought of it…

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- lubylou12 on February 2, 2012 at 11:14 am said:
  
  I haven’t heard from her either Sammy Dee. I don’t think Ijeoma or Rebecca can make it either. O well.
  
  Aw sorry to hear your not well Robyn and I hope you feel better soon. Fingers crossed we’ll see you next time. Would you like to nominate any books for March’s BG? We’ll then get in touch and let you know what we deciced. The next BG is likely to be the first Thursday in Marchould that date work for you?
  
  See you all tonight, Dave what time are you getting in? I have something I need to do at 5 so 5:45 ok? Sammy Dee were seeing you at half 6 yea?
  
  Reply ↓
  - Robyn on February 2, 2012 at 2:39 pm said:
    
    Thanks Lou – so the 1st of March? No problem for me and I will make sure I am fit and well that time. I’d be totally happy to read whatever you guys come up with but, to put my two penneth in, my TBR list (aka bedside cabinet) currently includes the novel BED by David Whitehouse who is a friend of a friend – I think it’s a pretty easy read and got a nice review on the Guardian. And the other one is Sacred Hearts by Sarah Dunant which my mum lent me and raves about. Hope you have a great meet tonight -sorry again that I can’t make it. R x
Manchester's Artistic Son on February 2, 2012 at 11:55 am said:

Is it gonna be the usual crowd?
I’ll bob in as soon as I can so 5:45 in M&Ps sounds fine. x

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- lubylou12 on February 2, 2012 at 11:58 am said:
  
  It’s gonna be me, you Danielle, and Holly. I’m looking forward to it. Cool, I’ll see you then in Matt and Phred’s : )
  
  Reply ↓
  - SammyDee on February 2, 2012 at 6:31 pm said:
    
    Hmmm, if we’re meeting here at 5.45 pm why am I the only one here at 6.30? 😀
  - SammyDee on February 3, 2012 at 9:52 am said:
    
    (In case anyone was worried about me sitting there alone last night I was only alone for a couple of minutes! I sent that message then the others came running in full of apologies asking “Didn’t you get my message?” They had messaged me 20 minutes earlier to say they were waiting in a café. It just hadn’t come through yet).
Manchester's Artistic Son on February 3, 2012 at 9:56 am said:

Really enjoyable night. I’ll facebook you later Lou, I have to go out this morning. How’re your legs?

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- lubylou12 on February 6, 2012 at 10:47 am said:
  
  Hi everyone,
  
  Firstly thanks everyone for coming, I really enjoyed it and hope you all did too. Secondly, ah Sammy Dee, so sorry for the confusion, I must get everyone’s numbers for next time because getting in touch via email is a nightmare.
  
  Thirdly my legs really burtn Dave : ( I’m walking around with cling film on it, not a good luck.
  
  And lastly I’m sorry to mess everyone around but I totally forgot I’m in Paris till the 4th of March! So can we change the date. I know we said The 1st, what about the following Thursday, the 8th?
  
  Also for those that couldn’t make the last book group we’ll be reading Moby Dick next. Amazon has some pretty good offers on if you don’t already have a copy. Hopefully see you all there, please let me know if the 8th is a bad date for people.
  
  x
  
  Reply ↓
Manchester's Artistic Son on February 6, 2012 at 12:37 pm said:

Cing film? Did the hospital tell you to do that? So the skin came off? That’s much worse than I thought it would be Lou, however if that’s self-diagnosed cling film application, you might want to let the area dry out and just keep running cold water over it in the evenings. Yeah it was a good BC, and I read the Wiki entry for Moby Dick and it sounds pretty complex so get ready for a tough quiz! 8th is fine for me I think, the only thing would be if there’s something on with my MA but I think its the Thursday after. I know I won a copy but I almost wish I could go into the library and say ‘Can I get Moby Dick out’ it sounds like a funny line.

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- lubylou12 on February 6, 2012 at 1:11 pm said:
  
  Thank you for the advice Dave : ) I’m only keeping the cling film on when I walking about. I didn’t think it would be so bad but it’s pretty nasty. Hoepfully it will clear soon. This is why we should just stick to wine.
  
  I’ve just ordered us both a lovely Vintage classsics one, nice cover. Ha you should still do that though, is it the little boy in you that wants to say it? Cool, just let me know if that date becomes a pronlem for you, we can always change it.
  
  Reply ↓
SammyDee on February 6, 2012 at 2:50 pm said:

The 8th is fine by me. It’s quite a thick book isn’t it? If so the extra weekend will come in handy. I downloaded it free from Amazon.

How is your leg today Lou? If it’s still hurting you should go to the NHS walk in centre above Boots on Market Street. You don’t need an appointment – just drop in after work. (It’s open until 8pm).

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- lubylou12 on February 7, 2012 at 1:10 pm said:
  
  Cool, we’ll keep it as the 8th for now but if it’s a problem for anyone just let me know. Ha I think that extra week will be handy too! I’m not going to lie I’m quite daunted by this book.
  
  My legs very much the same Sammy Dee, thanks for asking. I’m going to go to boots pharmacy after work see if they think I need to do anything else. It’s pretty bad for a hot water burn though. Didn’t think it would do that much damamge!!
  
  Reply ↓
Robyn on February 7, 2012 at 5:44 pm said:

Hi Lou (and everyone)

8th is great for me, thanks. Will be there with bells on – was so sad not to make the last one. Sounds like I missed a dramatic evening?! Hope your leg is feeling better Lou.

Have ordered my copy of Moby Dick. Yay!

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- lubylou12 on February 8, 2012 at 3:12 pm said:
  
  Hi Robyn,
  
  Great news that you can make that date : ) Ah yeah I had a slight accident, spilt a boiling hot cup of water on my leg. I’m VERY accident prone so it’s not a huge surprise : ) Seems to be getting better though.
  
  My copy came today, wowsa it’s not small is it?! Looking forward to starting it though x
  
  Reply ↓
SammyDee on February 13, 2012 at 11:52 am said:

My plan to read 5% of Moby Dick each night isn’t going to plan. I’m already 20% behind schedule. It’s not as though I’m reading anything else either. How’s everyone else getting on?

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- lubylou12 on February 13, 2012 at 1:16 pm said:
  
  I haven’t started it yet, I’ve got something else I need to read before, I have to admit I find the prospect of reading all 600 pages by the 8th quite daunting. Think it’s our biggest reading challenge yet. O by the way the review’s on it’s way but I finished The Wasp Factory at the weekend. It was AMAMZING!! Favourite book this year. Thanks for the recommendation.
  
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  - SammyDee on February 22, 2012 at 11:47 am said:
    
    I’m glad you liked The Wasp Factory. It was one book I found unforgetable. I’m not sure how much Dave enjoyed it though.
lubylou12 on February 22, 2012 at 1:12 pm said:

**Book Group Note**

Hi everyone so it seems maybe we underestimated how long this book would take to read. I know a few of us are struggling with the length, I’m suggesting that we change the date to the following Thursday, that’s the 15th? What does everyone think? I know it’s a shame to delay the next meet and if nobody is up for it then fair enough. However it does seem like only one, maybe to of us will have finished it by that date…….thoughts?

P.s. Sammy Dee your right it is truly unforgettable and for all (well nearly all) the right reasons x **Book Group Note**

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- SammyDee on February 22, 2012 at 1:42 pm said:
  
  I think I might have a family thing on the 15th. I probably won’t know for sure until a couple of days before. We tend to do things last minute.
  
  Moby Dick is free for the Kindle. You should download it.
  
  How far into the book is everyone else? I’ve read about 150 pages. I think Dave is about 100 pages in. You’ve read 50 (or did I imagine that conversation?) How much has everyone else read? I didn’t think I would read it in time for the 1st but I was happy to come along and let people tell me how it ends! Lol! (I’d finish it in my own time, of course!)
  
  It is a long book – Do we need to have finished it completely in order to review it? Or could we discuss our impressions and opinions how ever far we get? Just a thought.
  
  Reply ↓
  - lubylou12 on February 22, 2012 at 1:53 pm said:
    
    Hi Danielle,
    
    Bit confused, I thought we said the week after, not the first, that would be the 8th? I can’t do the 1st because I’m in Paris that week but we’ve all agreed on the 8th, is that right?
    
    It depends really on the general consenus. To me it seems a shame to hold a book group were we haven’t all read the book, however if were all really going to struggle to finish it in the next few weeks, which is quite understandable given the size, then maybe we should do it as a one off?!
    
    What’s everyone elses thoughts? I know Holly is struggling with, I’ll speak to Tara and see what she thinks, but if everyone is struggling it might be the case that we’ll be waiting months for everyone to finish it.
  - SammyDee on February 22, 2012 at 3:21 pm said:
    
    I meant the 8th oops. 🙂 I remember the conversation, I just hadn’t updated my calendar.
  - lubylou12 on February 23, 2012 at 11:02 am said:
    
    Phew 🙂
Manchester's Artistic Son on February 22, 2012 at 4:02 pm said:

Agghh,
I’ve been ill.
I’m still on page 100, either 8th or 15th is fine, if you say 8th I’ll read it quicker, if 15th I’ll read it slower. If people aren’t going to finish it then I’m happy to meet and chat about the style, the subtext, and why its a great American novel. We needn’t finish it I guess but then some of these slow burners only get going in the last 250 pages and it all makes sense.

Reply ↓
- lubylou12 on February 23, 2012 at 11:11 am said:
  
  I’m 70 pages in but I’m determined to finish it by Monday!! I’m going to Paris then and wanted to take something smaller, I think I’m a little deluded but I’ll give it a go : )
  
  So update, Tara (new book grouper) has given up on it, I think she was struggling too much. I’ve suggested she still comes and talks about why she didn’t like/finish it. Holly is struggling also and would have liked an extra week I think.
  
  I’m not too bothered either way. Like I said I want it finished by the weekend so if I haven’t read it by the 8th I’ll be gutted! Robyn, how are you getting on? Do you think you can finish by the 8th?
  
  Unless anyone has major objectations maybe just keep it for the 8th instead of dragging it out? That way we can like Dave says talk about the bits we have read? That sound good?
  
  Reply ↓
  - Robyn on February 23, 2012 at 7:14 pm said:
    
    Hi everyone! *waves*
    
    Sorry I haven’t had a chance to weigh in on this – I’ve been so busy with work, this is about the first time I’ve sat down for more than 10 minutes in the last couple of weeks! So, I’m struggling with it a bit but mostly because I haven’t had any time to get stuck into it. That said, I’ve got tomorrow off and an almost-entirely-free weekend (joy!) so I’ll make some progress now. Happy to go with the majority on the date – am free on the 8th and the 15th – and I’ll do my darndest to finish it either way 🙂
lubylou12 on February 24, 2012 at 1:27 pm said:

Hi Robyn!

No worries : ) Bless you, sounds like a stresfull time, hopefully you can relax more at the weeekend.

I’m thinking lets just stick to the 8th then, and anyone who hasn’t read it can contribute but talking about why they didn’t finish it/like etc.

Happy Reading everyone x

Reply ↓
lubylou12 on March 6, 2012 at 11:18 am said:

**BOOK GROUP UPDATE**

Hi everyone, so our next book group is nearly here, hope everyone can still make it. To confirm it’s the 8th (this Thursday) and I was thinking somewhere in the NQ where we can drink and get something to eat. What about the Bay Horse or Home Sweet Home?

Reply ↓
Robyn on March 6, 2012 at 3:45 pm said:

Hi Lou. Either sounds great. Not sure how many of us there are, but Home Sweet Home isn’t very big – I’m actually round the corner from it this afternoon – would you like me to pop in and see if they’ll reserve us a table?

Reply ↓
Robyn on March 6, 2012 at 3:46 pm said:

Unless we decide to go for the Bay Horse…

Reply ↓
- lubylou12 on March 6, 2012 at 3:52 pm said:
  
  Hi Robyn,
  
  That’s really kind of you to offer, if you don’t mind then it would be much appreciated. If they can’t fit us in though The Bay Horse is fine. It should be for 6people.
  
  Shall we say 6/6:30?
  
  Reply ↓
Robyn on March 6, 2012 at 5:12 pm said:

Cool – I’ll pop round there now. 6 People at 6pm x

Reply ↓
- lubylou12 on March 8, 2012 at 1:29 pm said:
  
  Thanks Robyn, did you manage to get a table?
  
  Reply ↓
  - Robyn on March 8, 2012 at 3:04 pm said:
    
    Yep, 6pm. I told them we wouldn’t be too rowdy 😉 It’s in my name, in case anyone gets there before me but I think I’ll be pretty early. Looking forward to meeting you all finally!
  - lubylou12 on March 8, 2012 at 4:02 pm said:
    
    That’s great, thanks Robyn, see you all at 6 or 6:30 x
Manchester's Artistic Son on March 7, 2012 at 3:10 pm said:

I’ll carry on the tradition that Lou started last time by providing an entertaining quiz, so I can be wrestled of my title of book-club-quiz-champion!!! (whooooo) but I’ve decided, since Free Willy got mixed reviews I’ll not base the quiz on it. I was going to base it on all the books we’ve read, but not wanting to disclude the new people I’m going to do a general book quiz, that everyone will have a chance with!

Reply ↓
- lubylou12 on March 8, 2012 at 1:32 pm said:
  
  Thanks Dave, that’s great, I’m really excited for the quiz : )
  
  O quick request guys, I’ve come up with a system for how we’ll chose the next book, can everyone bring the title of one book they would like to nominate. I’ll explain the rest tonight x
  
  Reply ↓
lubylou12 on March 11, 2012 at 3:34 pm said:

Hi everyone,

Just a quick thank you to everyone for coming down on Thursday, it was great to see everyone and Robyn it was lovely to meet you. Hope you had fun.

Just to confirm the next book will be on the 5th of April and were reading Cider with Rosie by Laurie Lee.

Hope you all enjoy the new book x

Reply ↓
Robyn on March 12, 2012 at 5:48 pm said:

Hey everyone. So good to meet you – really enjoyed my first book group meet. Although maybe less wine, more food for me next time!

Looking forward to Cider with Rosie and seeing you all next month. Ooh, and doing the quiz – eek!

R x

Reply ↓
- lubylou12 on April 3, 2012 at 1:29 pm said:
  
  ***BOOK GROUP UPDATE***
  
  Hi guys, just a quick book group update. I hope you all enjoyed the book and can make Thursday. We’ll say 6 for the start but for those that can’t make it then don’t worry, we wont start till half 6 as usual. I was thinking here for the book group: http://bakerie.co.uk/. Any objections?
  
  Really looking forward to seeing everyone and talking about Cider With Rose x
  
  Reply ↓
  - littlebirdcatering on April 3, 2012 at 3:44 pm said:
    
    That sounds lovely – I’ve been wanting to go to that place for a while. Apparently the deli platters are amazing and really good value.
    
    By the way, how many questions do you usually do for the quiz? And how hard do you make it? In fact, if anyone has a copy of a previous “book-specific” quiz that they could email me, that would be ace.
    
    Looking forward to the meet-up! xx
  - lubylou12 on April 3, 2012 at 4:55 pm said:
    
    I went the other day and it was amazing. I can’t wait. To be honest that was the second time we’d done it! It’s a really new thing so honestly no pressure, think it;s normally about twenty. I do’t have a copy of the one I did I’m afraid but a dozen questions on the book will do, it does’nt have to be too in depth. Hpe that helps 🙂
  - lubylou12 on April 17, 2012 at 12:17 pm said:
    
    Hi guys,
    
    It’s a bit belated but a big thank you to everyone who made the last book group. It was great to see you all! After speaking to a few different people it looks like a few of us are going to struggle with reading the book by then so I was wondering if there would be any objections to pushing the date back?? Can we stick with our normal month process? I was going to suggest May 3rd which would be a month from the last meet, however I have a staff meal I can’t get out of, what about Thursday 10th of May?
    
    What does everyone think? Sorry to mess people around I just think it’s better to have us all here than only a few.
littlebirdcatering on April 3, 2012 at 3:41 pm said:

That sounds lovely – I’ve been wanting to go there for a while. Apparently the deli platters are amazing and really good value.

By the way, has anyone got a copy of a previous book-specific quiz they could email me please so I can look at the type of questions and how many etc? If not, no worries – I’ll just wing it 😉

Looking forward to the meet up!

R x

Reply ↓
Manchester's Artistic Son on April 17, 2012 at 7:39 pm said:

That would be much much better for me, I’m working like a Japanese Prisoner of War.

😉

Reply ↓
- lubylou12 on April 19, 2012 at 11:54 am said:
  
  Ha I’m pretty sure you can’t say that! 🙂 Perfect, is everyone else ok with this date change? x
  
  Reply ↓
  - littlebirdcatering on April 19, 2012 at 3:32 pm said:
    
    Sorry for slow reply – yep, I also can’t make the 3rd but 10th is fine. I confess I haven’t made much progress with the book, despite being the one who picked it!
    
    Hope you’re all having a good week and looking forward to the weekend…
    
    R xx
  - lubylou12 on April 19, 2012 at 3:53 pm said:
    
    No worries Robyn,
    
    Cool, the 10th seems like a better date for a few people. I’ll check with Danielle and Holly as well. I haven’t started it either to be honest but I’m looking forward to it! Have a lovely weekend x
lubylou12 on May 9, 2012 at 10:20 am said:

Hi everyone,

Just a quick message to check everyone is still ok to meet this Thursday for Book Group? The date seems fine for Holly and Tara. Dave/Danielle/Robyn….does that still work for you?

I was thinking the Bay Horse, apparently they have a new sharing menu?

By the way can’t to discuss Bed. Nearly finished it. Brilliant book x

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SammyDee on May 30, 2012 at 2:31 pm said:

Soooo, we’re all reading An Invisible Sign of My Own by Aimee Bender for book club. How is everyone getting on? I read it very quickly right at the start – within days of picking it. That’s the second Aimee Bender book I’ve read recently and I really like her freshness and quirkiness. I hope other people are enjoying it too. I’m looking forward to meeting up with everyone.

It’s sliiiighhtllly off topic, buuuut, in both the Aimee Bender books I’ve read the characters have had special powers or abilities. (Being good at math is a special ability, right?) If you could have any unique power / ability what would it be?

Reply ↓
- dave schofield on May 30, 2012 at 9:33 pm said:
  
  I’ve finished Bed, and I’m reading ‘As it is in heaven’ before the book for the book club. Looking forward to next group can vindicate myself for being so rubbish last time. Bed – I thought was reasonably good, it had a nice idea at its core but it offered nothing extra. just endless descriptions of Mal’s fat body. The romance was a bit stunted, and every women in the book existed just to feed her man. Bit limited.
  
  I’d have the power to make money/get rich, a power which is escaping me currently.
  
  Reply ↓
  - SammyDee on June 6, 2012 at 11:18 am said:
    
    Hmm, I hadn’t considered a power to make me rich… I wouldn’t like to be able to see the future (i.e. to see lotto numbers) because it would be awful knowing if something bad was coming… but a power to make my houseplants grow money would be handy…
    
    I’m currently reading The Book Thief and Bury Me Standing. Have you read either of these? I’m only a third through but The Book Thief could have been a good Book Group book.
    
    Who’s turn is it to choose the next book?
Robyn on June 7, 2012 at 8:47 am said:

Hi all. I won’t be coming tomorrow night as I haven’t had enough time to get hold of the book and read it. Sad to be missing another one. Please could someone let me know what the one for next month is after the meeting? xx

Reply ↓
- SammyDee on June 7, 2012 at 9:50 am said:
  
  Hi Robyn, because of the bank holidays (and other holidays) we said we’d meet up on the 14th June instead. That gives you another week to get hold of it… I bought the e-book, otherwise I would have posted mine to you.
  
  Do you think you can make the 14th? You don’t have to have finished the book to come along.
  
  Reply ↓
Robyn on June 7, 2012 at 10:01 am said:

Oh right, sorry I thought it was the 8th. Yes, I’m sure I can get hold of it and read it by then – that’s great – thank you! xx

Reply ↓
- SammyDee on June 7, 2012 at 12:03 pm said:
  
  That’s good 🙂 I hope you enjoy it. It’s only a short read and the quirkiness is refreshing. (I think, anyway. Others might disagree).
  
  Reply ↓
lubylou12 on June 7, 2012 at 10:34 pm said:

Hi guys, wowsa, sorry I’ve missed out on so much.

Ok firstly, yep, sorry Robyn, I’ll confess I thought we said the10th but the 14th is much better for me. Also Robyn I’m really sorry, just saw your email, are you able to get the book by then because I can try and meet you?

Holly and Tara can do that date….so Dave??

Secondly, great question Danielle, I should probably say being good at maths because I’m so rubbish at it but I’d definitely say flying. I’d love to be able to just fly off and be in the clouds : )

That said you’re right money making house plants – AMAZING!! I also wouldn’t want to see into the future.

I think it’s my turn, better get thinking. I haven’t read The Book Thief but I also think it would be great??

So see you all next Thursday. Can’t wait. Preferences on location?? x

Reply ↓
- SammyDee on June 8, 2012 at 11:17 am said:
  
  I think the Book Theif was recommended to me as ‘It you liked Shadow of the Wind you’ll like this’. It’s a long one but I think our guys would enjoy it.
  
  I was wondering which month I was down to choose a book. I want to make sure I choose us a good one!
  
  Reply ↓
- Robyn on June 11, 2012 at 10:11 am said:
  
  Hey Lou – don’t worry about it! All ok – I picked up a copy of an Invisible Sign at Chorlton bookshop and it had money off so yay! Am getting on fine with it – v quirky.
  
  No prefs for location on Thurs – just really looking forward to it!
  
  R xx
  
  PS I’d pick teleportation. I’d like to be able to just get anywhere in the world in an instant 🙂
  
  Reply ↓
  - SammyDee on June 11, 2012 at 2:23 pm said:
    
    I like your thinking! Teleportation is a fantastic power. You don’t need as much money when you’re not paying for petrol / trains / flights etc. You’d never need to pay for hotel accommodation either – you could just nip back home to sleep.
    
    (Lou – sorry for dragging your Book Club into this extra-curricular converstation. I knew you guys wouldn’t let me down 🙂 )
    
    Any more thoughts on the location for Thursday? How many people are coming? Perhaps we could get a booth in either Common or Home Sweet Home? Just a suggestion – I’m happy to go anywhere.
Manchester's Artistic Son on June 12, 2012 at 10:20 am said:

I’m in, although coming from the gardening job so looking at about 7ish.
home sweet home is bigger now so maybe there, or somewhere cool around Stephensons Sq we haven’t been before.
I’ve read ‘Bed’ and ‘An invisible plot of my own’ or whatever it was called.
Just back from Espana, see you thursday.
D

Reply ↓
- SammyDee on June 14, 2012 at 11:07 am said:
  
  What are the choices in Stephenson Square? There’s NoHo, Soup Kitchen and a Tiki Lounge. Anything else? There are cafes but I don’t know when they close. I can imagine us sitting on Chesterfields in NoHo – Not sure we’d be able to hear one another though.
  
  Lou – what’s the verdict?
  
  Reply ↓
  - lubylou12 on June 14, 2012 at 1:37 pm said:
    
    Hi guys,
    
    What about that cheese place next to teap cup and The Bay Horse, they do nice cheese and meat platters, beers, wine and tea’s?
    
    Lets say half 6 as a few people can’t make it till later. I’m going to have to shoot off about half 8, is that ok with people? I have to pick my kitty up whose being on holiday, long story. That gives us two hours to discuss, catch up and do the quiz?!
    
    xx
  - lubylou12 on June 14, 2012 at 2:36 pm said:
    
    Hi everyony.
    
    I know we said 6:30 but myself and Holly will get there for 8 because we finish at half 5. If anyone wants to meet us then your more than welcome. I know Dave can’t make it till 7 but Danielle, Robyn – is between 6 and half six ok for you?
    
    Also slightly rubbish but it’s going to be about quarter past eight that I need to leave the cat 😦 we’ll still have an hour and half though : ) and obviously you guys canalways stay on xx
SammyDee on June 14, 2012 at 4:12 pm said:

Hello, I’ll get there at around 6.30 ish. See you then.

Reply ↓
Robyn on June 14, 2012 at 4:55 pm said:

In true Robyn (well, Little Bird Catering really) -style, it’s looking touch and go as to whether I’m going to make it. I am catering a conference until Sunday and let’s just say I, ahem, haven’t got it 100% under control at the moment. I’ll leg it down there if I can but don’t wait for me, esp since Lou’s got to dash off relatively early. Hope I can make it – really want to see you all and chat about the book! x

Reply ↓
- lubylou12 on June 14, 2012 at 4:59 pm said:
  
  Aw no, can make it! I’m actually able to stay for as long as I want know as I’ve cancelled my plans so if you’re worried about it being a short one don’t worry : )
  
  Do you wonna just text me when you know? x
  
  Reply ↓
Robyn on June 14, 2012 at 5:18 pm said:

Oh no wasn’t worried about that (in fact I’d probs have to dash off myself) – just had a really disorganised day. Was late with lunch, which has never happened before! Just need to be super on-top-of-things for tmw. Will see if I can scoot off in an hour but will text you either way. Thanks Lou xx

Reply ↓
- lubylou12 on June 21, 2012 at 2:20 pm said:
  
  *BOOK GROUP UPDATE*
  
  Hi guys,
  
  Sorry it’s taken me so long to send a message about the next book group! Things are still pretty hectic with college etc.
  
  Anyway’s an update for those that couldn’t make it, the next book is Northern Lights by Philip Pullman. My choice so I’m to blame if you hate it 
  
  We haven’t decided on a date yet so I’m just going to put a date out there! What about the 16th? We said we were going to try a Monday for change.
  
  Does that work for everyone?
  
  Reply ↓
  - lubylou12 on June 21, 2012 at 3:08 pm said:
    
    Just found out Holly can’t do the 16th, what about the week after, or any other suggestions? x
Genie on June 15, 2012 at 8:00 pm said:

A book I have just read, the sence of an ending by Julian Barnes, brilliant. Winner of the man booker prize. Would love to discuss the ending with other readers and their thoughts

Reply ↓
- SammyDee on June 19, 2012 at 12:04 pm said:
  
  Hello, I haven’t read it. It’s only short isn’t it? 160 pages or so. What is it about?
  
  Reply ↓
- lubylou12 on June 21, 2012 at 2:26 pm said:
  
  Hi Genie,
  
  Unfortunately I haven’t read it or I would have loved a good book discussion : ) The only book I’ve read of his is The History Of The World In Ten And A Half Chapters which was brilliant. Have you resd it?
  
  If I do get round to reading The Scene Of An Ending I’ll definitely start a discussion on it!
  
  Reply ↓
Robyn on June 25, 2012 at 1:37 pm said:

Hey all. Week after looks better for me at the moment but as you know my schedule is a bit, er, unpredictable so best just to go with whatever suits the rest of you and I’ll tag along. I’ve read Northern Lights before but am v glad of the nudge to re-read it. I think it’s a great choice Lou – very different to anything we’ve read so far. I think it will elicit lots of opinions! Hope everyone’s well xx

Reply ↓
- lubylou12 on June 28, 2012 at 1:20 pm said:
  
  Hi guys,
  
  Ok lets make it the 23rd, that seems better for everyone?? Holly can do that date and she’s going to check with Hanna.
  
  Hope that workds for people. Roby, gld your happy with the choice and that your up for a re read. It’s such a good book and I am hoping you’ll all like it! x
  
  Reply ↓
  - SammyDee on July 2, 2012 at 12:05 pm said:
    
    The 23rd looks ok to me. I haven’t started reading it yet so I’m happy to have more time. 🙂
Pingback: URL
SammyDee on July 12, 2012 at 3:37 pm said:

Whoop Whoop!

Has anyone seen this weeks Booking Through Thursday Meme? It’s my question!
I’m so proud! lol

😉

Reply ↓
- lubylou12 on July 13, 2012 at 11:09 pm said:
  
  Woo Check you out Sammy Dee! Just seen your question! It’s a good’un, I’m going to pop over to your blog now to discuss…nice one 🙂
  
  Reply ↓
  - lubylou12 on July 23, 2012 at 9:53 am said:
    
    Hi guys, woo book group tonight! Excited to see you all. How does six work for everyone? Venue idea’s? What about home sweet home? X
SammyDee on July 23, 2012 at 10:04 am said:

It’ll be 6.30 for me as usual. Home Sweet Home works for me 🙂 Just adding a couple more questions to tonights quiz.

Reply ↓
- lubylou12 on July 23, 2012 at 10:19 am said:
  
  Oo I’d forgotten about the quiz. I’ve read this book twice so if I can’t win this that’s worrying : )
  
  Reply ↓
  - Robyn on July 23, 2012 at 12:30 pm said:
    
    Woo! Home Sweet Home at 6 is perfect for me. I’ve just finished a HUGE weekend of cooking so I’m really looking forward to winding down with a nice glass of wine and a natter with you guys. See you this evening 🙂 x
tara sudama on July 23, 2012 at 10:15 am said:

That’s good for me

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SammyDee on July 23, 2012 at 2:51 pm said:

Hi Robyn, Glad you can make it tonight. Hope you enjoyed the book and are ready for the quiz. See you later. x

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Dave Schofield on August 1, 2012 at 8:03 pm said:

Hey you monkeys!
I had somehow unsubscribed to comments so I missed all your chat!
Looking forward to next one, hope the zombie book is good.

Reply ↓
- SammyDee on August 3, 2012 at 12:21 pm said:
  
  Me too, cos I’ve not had time to come up with another!
  
  Has anyone started Warm Bodies yet?
  
  Reply ↓
- lubylou12 on August 6, 2012 at 9:33 am said:
  
  I’m really looking forward to the next one as well! I haven’t received my copy yet, I’m currently reading How To Be A Woman and can’t put it down!! But looking forward to Warm Bodies, sounds like something totally different.
  
  Reply ↓
  - Robyn on August 7, 2012 at 2:03 pm said:
    
    It’s totally brilliant isn’t it! Looking forward to hearing what you thought of it. x
  - lubylou12 on August 23, 2012 at 3:57 pm said:
    
    Is everyone enjoying Warm Bodies, or is cheating to ask that?
    
    Quick update, as Dave has kindly offered to have us all round for tea I thought it would good if we all bring a little something each. I’m thinking some wine, or some snacks? I belive Dave is making a curry so I might bring samossa’s etc.
    
    Anway, looking forward to seeing you all Monday and I hope you’re enjoying the book!
Robyn on August 3, 2012 at 4:53 pm said:

I have – just the first few pages but finding it really amusing so far. x

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Dave Schofield on August 23, 2012 at 10:17 pm said:

yey, looking forward to it. 😉

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littlebirdcatering on August 25, 2012 at 9:06 am said:

Me too! I could bring something sweet for afters? Am I still driving the rest of you gals over to Dave’s? If so, when and roughly where shall we meet? xx

Reply ↓
- dave schofield on August 25, 2012 at 9:33 am said:
  
  Whoop. Hollys bringin cake but we can’t have too many sweet things. As long as a couple of people get booze well be fine ill do beers, juice and hot drinks. Is everyone apart from Sammy dee coming. So that’s 7 including me I think? Shall be cool. I’ll text Lou my postcode and stuff. Xxxx
  
  Reply ↓
littlebirdcatering on August 25, 2012 at 9:46 am said:

Ah not to worry – I’ll bring wine instead!! I can only fit 4 plus me in the car – would anyone be coming separately? xx

Reply ↓
- Dave Schofield on August 26, 2012 at 11:48 pm said:
  
  woah, woah, woah. Sweet things is fine (if you still have time) I got some beers, juice and wine today, and you won’t be drinking much if your driving so its fine. Well whatever you want, I think Lous gonna bring some wine or something too. there’s less people now since Tara and Hannah aren’t coming so whatever. If you have any probs with getting down let me know – 07825717937. hopefully its a nice day/evening. I weeded my garden today and tidied my house so its presentable. 😉
  
  Reply ↓
  - Robyn on August 27, 2012 at 10:26 am said:
    
    Lovely. See you later on 🙂
  - lubylou12 on August 28, 2012 at 2:34 pm said:
    
    Hey everyone, thank you so much for coming last night and thank you dave for your lovely food and hospitality, thanks everyone for the cakes and snacks too! It was loads of fun. Just to confirm, the next book group is on Monday 1st October and it’s at my place. Please just bring yourselves and maybe some wine if you fancy it : ) The book is A tree grows in Brookyln.
    
    Hope to see you all then x
dave schofield on August 25, 2012 at 3:59 pm said:

Ill be here, my sister can get down. That might leave 5 including you. Or maybe holly’s driving?

Reply ↓
- lubylou12 on August 26, 2012 at 4:12 pm said:
  
  Hey everyone!
  
  Unfortunately Danielle can’t make it so that leaves me, Robyn, Holly and Tara coming from town. I’m just waiting to hear back from Tara but Robyn, I was gonna say, if it’s easier for you me and Holly can just get the train? Just thought it would mean you can have drink etc?
  
  Dave’s asked us to be there for 6 if people can make that time?X
  
  Reply ↓
- lubylou12 on August 26, 2012 at 4:22 pm said:
  
  P.s are we still all bringing a book as a gift? x
  
  Reply ↓
  - Dave Schofield on August 26, 2012 at 11:50 pm said:
    
    Meh…
    what did we say? like a lucky dip? I’ve got a copy of Warm Bodies, anyone?….
    Lou let me know what time your train gets in and I’ll meet ya. You coming to Westhoughton? I reckon they’re every half an hour or so, but I don’t know if bank holiday will affect it.
Robyn on August 28, 2012 at 5:22 pm said:

I second that – thanks so much Dave (and all of you), the food was mega. Looking forward to next time. Will bring wine but just shout if there is anything else you need on the day Lou. xx

Reply ↓
dave schofield on August 29, 2012 at 10:09 pm said:

Lou, do you want any crusty bread? I could bring crusty bread? Looking forwards.
My pleasure also – thanks for coming!

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tara sudama on August 30, 2012 at 10:35 am said:

Hi guys,

Sorry I missed this months book group. I heard Dave put on a lovely spread 🙂 Ordered the next book and looking forward to reading it. What’s the plan for the next book group? Is it at someone’s house?

Reply ↓
- dave schofield on September 2, 2012 at 9:17 pm said:
  
  yeah the salmon went in the bin…..
  no I’m kidding, it went in the freezer. its at Lou’s house next Tara.
  
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  - lubylou12 on September 5, 2012 at 9:39 pm said:
    
    Yep, next one at mine, Monday 1st. Look forward to seeing you all then x
  - lubylou12 on September 12, 2012 at 12:39 pm said:
    
    **UPDATE** Hi everyone,
    
    I hope you don’t mind but a few people are still waiting to receive copies of the book and given it’s over 400 pages long would people mind if we put it back a few weeks?
    
    I think it’s better to have everyone there and if we have it on October 1st I don’t think many people will make it.
    
    So I’m proposing we make it for the October 15th? The week before is my birthday so can’t do then. What does everyone think? Really sorry for any trouble caused xx
Robyn on September 13, 2012 at 12:00 pm said:

Hey chaps. 15th is fine with me, Lou, and I agree, it’s a pretty long read! Am enjoying it more than Moby Dick though 😉

BTW, do the people who weren’t there last time know that we’re doing a lucky book dip to celebrate a year of book group? Think we’re each going to bring a beloved book wrapped up so everyone gets one at random…

Hope everyone’s well.

R xx

PS Lou, my copy of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn is a library book this time – naughty second-hand booksellers!

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Robyn on September 13, 2012 at 12:59 pm said:

Oh PS everyone – happy Roald Dahl Day! What was your favourite? (Dave, if you say you didn’t like them I think I will lose all faith in your judgement 😉 )

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- lubylou12 on September 13, 2012 at 2:25 pm said:
  
  Hi Robyn,
  
  Phew, glad you can make it then, hope everyone else can. Oh, thanks for remidning everyone, I forgot to mention the gift idea.
  
  I can’t beleive how many people send library books, so cheeky!! P.s. love Roald Dahl day, going to try and post about it later.
  
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  - dave schofield on September 13, 2012 at 7:59 pm said:
    
    yeah I can make it. xx
- dave schofield on September 13, 2012 at 8:00 pm said:
  
  erm, BFG, or witches, or Going Solo
  😉
  
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  - Robyn on September 13, 2012 at 8:09 pm said:
    
    Phew! Going Solo and Boy are great – underrated. I think it would be a dead heat between BFG, The Witches and Matilda for me, although it’s all a bit Sophie’s Choice – love them all!
- Dave Schofield on September 18, 2012 at 8:37 pm said:
  
  Hey Robyn, what do you think about the book, Lou and Holly are just getting into it I think, have you had a go at it yet?
  
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tara sudama on September 18, 2012 at 4:33 pm said:

15th is good for me, thanks for letting me know about the book. I love Danny the Champion of the World and George’s Marvellous Medicine xx

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- Dave Schofield on September 18, 2012 at 8:35 pm said:
  
  yeah, but what do you think of the book for this month? any feelings?
  😉
  
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  - tara sudama on September 25, 2012 at 10:18 am said:
    
    I’m really enjoying it! Not going to say too much as I’ll save the rest until the 15th 🙂
  - lubylou12 on October 8, 2012 at 6:13 pm said:
    
    Hi guys, hope your all enjoying the book and can still make it next Monday. Just a reminder, its at my place. Directions to follow. I hope no one is opposed to pulled pork burgers and wedges. I’ll also be doing a veggie option. I know holly is on holiday so can’t make it but can everyone else. P.s. as its Halloween let’s have a scary book! Everyone try and come with a suggestion x
  - tara sudama on October 10, 2012 at 10:40 am said:
    
    Yep. I’ll be there, looking forward to it x
SammyDee on September 20, 2012 at 11:52 am said:

15th is good for me 🙂

I haven’t even started the book yet. 😦 I’m just too busy. I’m meeting the other guys tonight even though I haven’t read their book either.

I’m really sorry I couldn’t make it to the last meeting. Are you doing the birthday book swap at at the next meeting instead, or did I misunderstand?

It’s very cheeky of me to mention it but a friend has recently started a blog. If you get a chance please take a look and say hi. It’s arty but not booky just you might enjoy it anyway. 🙂

It’s at http://lobstersarecutetoo.wordpress.com/

Thank you!

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- lubylou12 on October 9, 2012 at 2:48 pm said:
  
  Hi Daniel,
  
  Don’t worry, you might just need to sit out the quiz : ) Or you could take part, imagine if you won : )
  
  Yep, book swap next Monday so please bring your chosen book.
  
  Going to have a look at your friends blog now, like the name x
  
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Robyn on October 12, 2012 at 2:30 pm said:

Hi all – sorry I haven’t replied for ages – so busy! Dave, I’m enjoying the book although I’m not sure I’ve emotionally connected with it yet. Maybe that’ll come (still got QUITE a bit to read) but even if not, it’s a nice read so far.

Am collecting fiendishly difficult quiz questions as I go along, of course 😉

Lou, I’m super-excited for dinner on Monday. I love it any time someone else cooks and pulled pork is one of my absolute favourites. Can’t remember if you needed me to bring anything (other than wine & book swap contribution)? Let me know if you need anything.

See you next week! xxx

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Robyn on October 13, 2012 at 6:07 pm said:

Ooh… ps…. the film version of Northern Lights is on C4 tomorrow teatime. I think Dave said it was pretty good – might check it out!

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SammyDee on October 18, 2012 at 3:11 pm said:

Hello, Can someone remind me which book we chose? I want to get it ordered quickly to give me a better chance of actually reading this one! Thank you!

P.S. I need your pulled pork recipe. So delicious! 🙂

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- tara sudama on October 22, 2012 at 1:15 pm said:
  
  It’s The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters x
  
  Reply ↓
  - SammyDee on October 22, 2012 at 2:13 pm said:
    
    Thank you! 🙂 I’ve just ordered it, which is a massive improvement on last month.
    
    I was very tempted to buy Fingersmith at the same time. – It nearly made it through the check-out, then I remembered that huge pile of unread books next to my chair…
Robyn on November 18, 2012 at 1:51 pm said:

Hey chaps – really looking forward to Wednesday. Haven’t made massive headway on the book but at least I’ve read it before 😉 It’s just as creepy as I remember – Stu was away for the night on Friday and I decided to read some before bed – mistake!

Who’s coming on Weds? I think I’ve got a phone number or an email for all of you so I’ll email or text my address. My house is dead easy to get to as it’s about 2 mins from Firswood tram stop.

Oh and any special dietary requirements? I know Tara doesn’t eat meat.

R xx

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- tara sudama on November 20, 2012 at 4:06 pm said:
  
  Hi is it this Wednesday? x
  
  Reply ↓
tara sudama on November 20, 2012 at 4:16 pm said:

I’ll be there 🙂 I eat everything including Fish, but not meat or chicken. Would you like me to bring anything? xx

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Robyn on November 20, 2012 at 4:34 pm said:

Cool. So that’s Tara, Dave, Danielle and – I assume – Lou. Any more for any more? Are Rachel or Holly coming?

If you guys could bring whatever you fancy to drink, that would be ace.

R x

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littlebirdcatering on November 23, 2012 at 6:37 pm said:

Hey everyone – thanks for coming on Wednesday – was so much fun. Am making a start on the new book this evening. Hope you all have a great weekend. See you on the 1st for gluhwein! xxx

PS Lou – opened your Christmas card – so cute! You should sell them…

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littlebirdcatering on November 23, 2012 at 6:38 pm said:

What am I talking about, the 1st? I mean the 18th, don’t I? x

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Robyn on November 29, 2012 at 12:59 pm said:

Here I am again… found a black umbrella at my house after book group last week – anyone’s?

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- SammyDee on December 7, 2012 at 2:41 pm said:
  
  WordPress is playing up – I’m struggling to leave messages. 😦
  
  If anyone is interested is registering as a Giver for for World Book Night go to http://www.worldbooknight.org/
  
  To be in with a chance of being picked you need to tick the boxes to say 1) that you have read your first choice of book (choose 3 books from the list); and 2) that you plan to give the books to people who don’t read regularly. If you don’t tick these boxes there’s no point applying.
  
  The three questions you need to answer are: 1) Where do you want to give the books away (I gave them out in a hospital this year) 2) Who you want to give them to (e.g. in my case I gave them to patients staying in the hospital) 3) Why you want to be a World Book Night giver. (For this I gushed 60 words about how much I love books!)
  
  Thousands of people have already applied but remember they’re giving away One Million books so there’s still time to apply.
  
  Let us know which books you pick. x
  
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- SammyDee on January 3, 2013 at 10:27 am said:
  
  Hi Robyn,
  
  Did you find out who the black umbrella belongs to? Was it a little handbag sized one? I can’t remember when I last saw my black umbrella but I’ve been using my other one so it’s only just occurred to me that it might have been mine.
  
  Reply ↓
  - lubylou12 on January 3, 2013 at 4:38 pm said:
    
    Hi guys, I tried sending a reply.but it doesn’t seemed to have come up. So here’s what it said: merry Xmas and happy new year everyone. I’m sorry for not getting back to you. It’s being a stresful hectic month but sorry for any inconvenience. Anyway off course I still love you all! And dave off course I still want to do my blook group. Ill be honest I can’t find the date we agreed to. What about either the 14, 15, 16th of Jan? Xx
  - SammyDee on January 3, 2013 at 7:58 pm said:
    
    Hi Lou, I think part of the problem is that there are so many messages to load on this page. Have you considered creating a new page on your blog (called Book Club 2013 for example) so this page effectively becomes the archive and we don’t have to scroll down for 10 minutes before replying? It is getting harder and harder to reply on here. (Or I can just mind my own business 😉 lol)
  - Louise Stephenson on January 3, 2013 at 8:15 pm said:
    
    That’s a really good idea Sammy Dee, thank you. Ill get that up and running soon. Thanks. Where do you all fancy doing the next one? X
  - lubylou12 on January 3, 2013 at 8:47 pm said:
    
    It’s being created now, thanks again Sammy Dee!
  - SammyDee on January 3, 2013 at 9:19 pm said:
    
    Great 🙂 Now we just need all the regulars to leave a comment each on the new page, click notify me of follow-up comments and we’re away! Clean slate for 2013! 🙂
littlebirdcatering on December 17, 2012 at 5:25 pm said:

Hey chaps – are we still meeting tomorrow night? If so, where and what time? xx

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- SammyDee on December 17, 2012 at 9:44 pm said:
  
  I’m still free for tomorrow so that makes two of us. I hope it doesn’t rain as hard as it did tonight otherwise we’re in for a miserable time on the markets. Lots of them packed up for 6.30 coz of the weather. 😦
  
  Reply ↓
  - tara sudama on December 18, 2012 at 9:26 am said:
    
    Yep I’m still coming tonight too. Don’t forget your Secret Santas 🙂 x
  - tara sudama on December 18, 2012 at 1:09 pm said:
    
    Should we meet under the zippy santa at 6.30? x
littlebirdcatering on December 18, 2012 at 2:26 pm said:

Yep. Sounds good to me – I can only stay for a little while but looking forward to seeing you all. xx

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SammyDee on December 18, 2012 at 4:01 pm said:

I’ll get there as soon as I can.:-)

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littlebirdcatering on December 18, 2012 at 5:30 pm said:

Hey all – just to confirm we’ve decided to postpone the meet-up as we’re a bit low on numbers and poor Lou isn’t feeling well. Maybe we could do the secret santa at the next book group meeting (which I have forgotten the date of?!)

Anyways, a very happy Christmas to you all – have a wonderful time. I’m off back into my kitchen- if I ever see another mince pie again, it’ll be too soon….

Robyn xx

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- SammyDee on December 18, 2012 at 5:39 pm said:
  
  Ah, we replied at the same time. Everyone: what she said. 😉
  
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SammyDee on December 18, 2012 at 5:32 pm said:

Hi everyone, tonight’s meeting has been postponed until the New Year. We’ll do the secret Santa swap in January.

Lou is having problems replying right now so I’ll post the next meeting on here as soon as I know it!

If I don’t see or speak to you before, have a fantastic Christmas!

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tara sudama on December 31, 2012 at 1:50 pm said:

Hi everyone,

What date are we meeting in Jan? x

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dave schofield on January 3, 2013 at 1:35 am said:

Erm……
So i missed all the recent posts, sorry Tara, dani and robyn. Hope yall had a good xmas. I didn’t get notification for ages from WordPress. As for Lou, I get the feeling she doesn’t love us anymore. Im open to an alternative book suggestion, Lou was gonna hand me her copy and she didn’t. And if Lou doesn’t wanna book club i don’t mind adding a discussion tab to my blog. Or have people read the book? Happy new year. Xxx

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- SammyDee on January 3, 2013 at 10:18 am said:
  
  Happy New Year Everyone!
  
  Dave – I’ve nearly finished the book so you can take my copy if you’re in Manchester soon. Let me know when you’re planning to be around so I can finish it (80 or so pages left). It isn’t a book I’d have chosen to read based on the cover or blurb and it was hardly a cheery post-Christmas read but I am enjoying it. (Although I’m not sure ‘enjoying’ is really the right word). I emphasise with the characters and want to know what happens to them. That’s a good sign, right?
  
  Has anyone else started the book?
  
  Lou has a deadline for her review. Can anyone remember when that is?
  
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- tara sudama on January 3, 2013 at 5:21 pm said:
  
  Hi Dave
  
  I had a lovely Christmas and I hope you all had a great New Year! I’ve started the book and I’m finding it “OK” at best… but like I said I’ve only started it so may need to give it a better chance. The later date the better for me really xx
  
  Reply ↓
  - lubylou12 on January 3, 2013 at 5:41 pm said:
    
    Hi Tara,
    
    Glad you had a good Xmas. Would you say the 16th is next for you then? Xx
tara sudama on January 3, 2013 at 6:01 pm said:

Yep 16th is good for me 🙂 x

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- SammyDee on January 3, 2013 at 7:50 pm said:
  
  16th should be OK for me too.
  
  Reply ↓