Darcy List

This came up in my Facebook memories. And I realized it was the perfect post to be on this blog. So I am reposting.

March 24, 2015

Sorry, my preferences and I don't agree with this line up. My order: Firth in Bridget doesn't even make the list because I don't like that movie. 9. Rintoul. 8. Henderson (only seen it once). 7. Olivier. 6. Rhys. 5. MacFadyen (he wasn't given much to work with) 4. Firth. 3. Seale (LDS version). 2. Gordh (he was a very close 1st) 1. Cowan.

It seems I have a thing for seeing my Darcy's in modern settings. :-)
P.S. And for me, JJ as Henry Tilney will always beat out Darcy.

The Definitive Ranking Of Actors Who Have Played Mr Darcy

"You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you."

BUZZFEED.COM|BY JENNA GUILLAUME

Comments

Mary Mitchell De Bastos Henry Tilney will always beat out Darcy!

March 25, 2015 at 1:11am · Like

Sara Lyn Busch Hm... I'm not even sure how I would rank them. Tilney all the way! :)

March 25, 2015 at 6:28am · Unlike · 1

AKB Book Club "P&P" Discussion Answers

At last! I'm posting my P&P book club discussion answers. So much going on that it took a while to get to. That and I've been sick. So forgive whatever does not quite make sense.

1. Pride and Prejudice is probably Austen's most famous, most beloved book. One element, the initial mutual dislike of two people destined to love each other, has become a cliché of the Hollywood romance. I'm sure you can think of numerous examples.


Oh my word. Yes. And in literature, too. I was just talking to my co-worker that so many of Chris Heimerdinger’s couples are predictable: if they fight a lot when they meet, they will eventually fall in love. It’s kind of annoying.

In movies: the main couple in “27 Dresses.” Tons of Christmas romance movies. “Ever After,” at least on Danielle’s side at the beginning. “Geek Charming” (my guilty pleasure). And more than I care to think up right now.

2. In 1814 Mary Russell Mitford wrote: "It is impossible not to feel in every line of Pride and Prejudice...the entire want of taste which could produce so pert, so worldly a heroine as the beloved of such a man as Darcy.... Darcy should have married Jane." Would you have liked the book as well if Jane were its heroine?

Absolutely not. I LOVE Lizzie’s character! I have always longed for so much of my personality to be like her. I don’t mind Jane, but I don’t love her like Lizzie. Would not want to see her disappointed in hopes. That’s already my life. Let me at least join a spunky girl who is fine with being single and loves life.

And let me also say: Darcy marrying Jane? That would have been awful. How bored he would have been and how unloved she might have felt.

3. Have you ever seen a movie version in which the woman playing Jane was, as Austen imagined her, truly more beautiful than the woman playing Elizabeth?

Twice. I thought the Jane in the 1980s version was much prettier than Lizzie. Jane in the 90s version had potential if they didn’t put her in ugly dresses and unflattering hairstyles. I think Jane in the ’05 movie is scads prettier than Kiera Knightley. Then again, I don’t really like Kiera Knightley….

4. Austen suggests that in order to marry well a woman must be pretty, respectable, and have money. In the world of Pride and Prejudice, which of these is most important?

Depends on which character you ask. Wickham needs a wife with money. The one he got wasn’t very respectable. Darcy wanted a respectable wife, preferably one with money (=status). Bingley wanted respectable and didn’t mind that she was pretty. Mr. Bennett went for pretty and lost out on the other two. Mr. Gardiner went for respectable, and bonus, got the others in the bargain.

5. Spare a thought for some of the unmarried women in the book—Mary and Kitty Bennett, Miss de Bourgh, Miss Georgiana Darcy, poor, disappointed Caroline Bingley. Which of them do you picture marrying some day? Which of them do you picture marrying well?

I know Kitty marries—because Austen said so years after publication! (And Bebris incorporated that into her Mr. & Mrs. Darcy series, which I was very happy about.) Miss Darcy will probably have the best marriage because she has the two best people looking out for her best interests, as well as having a good fortune to open up her choices.

6. Was Charlotte Lucas right to marry Reverend Collins?

I have answered this before, and I still stick to that answer: Considering how life was for females, I can see why she was right for security purposes. But I cannot bring myself to that much unhappiness for the rest of my life. I definitely think Austen was giving her opinion on society’s view of marriage.

7. What are your feelings about Mr. Bennet? Is he a good father? A good husband? A good man?

I get so mixed up in my opinion of him having now seen numerous film adaptations of him. I can’t quite remember how he is in the book! Memory niggles at my brain to suggest that he was more absent than he should be as a father—hence so many problems that occur before and during the novel. Still, he at least was present and he made sure his children were provided for. That’s more than can be said for other fathers of that time or at the present.

And the same would go as a husband. He may not be the ideal, supportive, loving, kind man so many of us would wish for. Or, at least, that I wish for. But he stayed put. He could have left the whole family. He could have decided to cheat on his silly wife, but I don’t get that impression. He puts up with her whims and follies and the only way he knows that does not include abandonment or refusal to support her financially. You have to give him something even if it isn’t the ideal.

A good man? Better than others we see in literature or real-life. Compare him to Wickham and I’d say he is a very good man.

8. Darcy says that one of Wickham's motivations in his attempted elopement with Georgiana was revenge. What motivations might he have had for running off with Lydia? (Besides the obvious...)

Again, I’ve answered a similar question and here was my former response: Wickham wants revenge on Darcy and Georgiana’s fortune. Lydia? He just wanted some action. Maybe even he was taking a little revenge on Lizzie because she no longer had interest in him after the Miss King incident—though that may be stretching it a bit.

9. Elizabeth Bennett says,".... people themselves alter so much, that there is something new to be observed in them for ever." Do any of the characters in the book change substantially? Or do they, as Elizabeth says of Darcy, "in essentials" remain much as they ever were?

Their opinions and choices change substantially. Never was quite sure what she meant by “in essentials.” And I’ve had sick brain all week, so I don’t have the ability to fathom that out right now. Sorry!
10. Elizabeth is furious with Darcy for breaking up the match between Jane and Mr. Bingley. Although he initially defends himself, she changes his mind. Later when Lady Catherine attempts to interfere in his own courtship, he describes this as unjustifiable. Should you tell a friend if you think they're about to make a big mistake romantically? Have you ever done so? How did that work out for you?
If I feel that it will bring a lot of unhappiness to them, yes. I mention my opinion but do not expect it to be conceded. I did speak up once. She did not agree, but it brought us closer after I voiced concerns and she allayed them. Over the years, they have made their marriage work, but it was very rough to start with. It was hard as a friend to see it, but I still stuck by her side as she went through it.
11. Is Elizabeth consistent in her actions? Is she a fully developed character? How? Why?
Elizabeth is not consistent in her actions because she learns lessons and changes/fixes what needs changing. She is not a fully developed character because how boring would that be! I don’t want to read about people who are done and have no need for growth. I have a lifetime of growth ahead of me and I don’t want to literarily feel alone that others have figured it all out already and have no need of trial, learning, growth, and change.

Pride & Prejudice Discussion Questions

All right, gang! Here are the discussion questions I've rounded up from some Internet searching. I didn't take much time to screen them, so if there are some you think are dumb or don't want to answer, don't answer.

1. Pride and Prejudice is probably Austen's most famous, most beloved book. One element, the initial mutual dislike of two people destined to love each other, has become a cliché of the Hollywood romance. I'm sure you can think of numerous examples.

2. In 1814 Mary Russell Mitford wrote: "It is impossible not to feel in every line of Pride and Prejudice...the entire want of taste which could produce so pert, so worldly a heroine as the beloved of such a man as Darcy.... Darcy should have married Jane."

• Would you have liked the book as well if Jane were its heroine?
• Have you ever seen a movie version in which the woman playing Jane was, as Austen imagined her, truly more beautiful than the woman playing Elizabeth?

3. Austen suggests that in order to marry well a woman must be pretty, respectable, and have money. In the world of Pride and Prejudice, which of these is most important? 

4. Spare a thought for some of the unmarried women in the book—Mary and Kitty Bennet, Miss de Bourgh, Miss Georgiana Darcy, poor, disappointed Caroline Bingley. Which of them do you picture marrying some day? Which of them do you picture marrying well?

5. Was Charlotte Lucas right to marry Reverend Collins?

6. What are your feelings about Mr. Bennet? Is he a good father? A good husband? A good man?

7. Darcy says that one of Wickham's motivations in his attempted elopement with Georgiana was revenge. What motivations might he have had for running off with Lydia? (Besides the obvious...)

8. Elizabeth Bennet says,".... people themselves alter so much, that there is something new to be observed in them for ever." Do any of the characters in the book change substantially? Or do they, as Elizabeth says of Darcy, "in essentials" remain much as they ever were?

9. Elizabeth is furious with Darcy for breaking up the match between Jane and Mr. Bingley. Although he initially defends himself, she changes his mind. Later when Lady Catherine attempts to interfere in his own courtship, he describes this as unjustifiable.

• Should you tell a friend if you think they're about to make a big mistake romantically?
• Have you ever done so? How did that work out for you?

10. Is Elizabeth consistent in her actions? Is she a fully developed character? How? Why?

Any other questions you want to ask/answer?

My Attempt at S&S Thoughts

1. The Dashwood women discuss Edward Ferrars for many pages before the reader actually meets him in a dramatic scene. Why do you think Austen chose to create the whole Elinor/Edward love affair "off stage"?

I didn’t like it! This is why I had such a problem the first two times I read this book. I felt I didn’t really know Edward. I had to go off of what others said about him and not see him for my own. Even a limited (and often prejudiced—for good or bad) view of Darcy and Capt. Wentworth and dear Tilney and Mr. Knightley is better than not to actually see him! And then when I really got to see him, he was not at his best. The most happy I was with him was at the very end. Perhaps Austen left it vague so that we as the reader could imagine our own man—with all of the good, stalwart qualities that are emphasized again and again. Which isn’t bad, but I still had hoped for a little more to go off of when I was younger. Now, having seen a few versions from the movies, I can come up with an Edward that pleases me when I read the book. He does, of course, highly resemble in looks and actions the Edward from the 2008 film version. (Small wonder!)

It is not hard to see why I typically love the movies better for at least this reason—you get to see more of an Edward. Hugh Grant in the ’95 version was not the Edward I would create in my mind, but he was the first one that I saw more put to his character. The Edwards in the 70s and 80s film versions aren’t much to get me interested. And Dan? I mean, Edward? Oh yeah.

2. Elinor and Marianne's younger sister Margaret plays a very minor role in the novel. Why do you think Austen included this character? Does she further any of the plot? Does she shed light on any of the other characters?

I have no clue! The 70s and 80s films probably didn’t either, since they completely took her out. She was a fun addition in both ’95 and 2008. Though she was different in each—and nothing like the book. Why? Because the book barely describes anything about her! I got in mind that she was a mini-Marianne, which made me not want to know her. I love both girls in the ’95 and 2008. Why she’s in the book? Well, I guess if she didn’t exist, Mrs. Dashwood would have joined her daughters in London. Maybe her young age is also supposed to remind you that Mrs. Dashwood is not all that old herself, and that her late husband was probably much older when he married her. (Which foreshadows Colonel Brandon and Marianne.)

3. Before he abandons Marianne, is John Willoughby a likeable character? Does Austen give any indication early on that he is not as he appears?

I don’t really know what I thought of him during my first read. My second and this latest third read were influenced by the fact that I knew his true and full character. Trying to ignore that I knew that, I still thought him too encouraging of Marianne’s excessive emotings—and could I honestly like a man like that? I have major fears and concerns that I am too much like Marianne. I long for a man to help ground me and remove some of the overly sensible sensibilities, not someone to encourage them.

When my friends and I watched 2008 version last week, there was one present who had never read the book or seen any other version. So I wondered how he would think of the characters, not knowing anything about them. I should have known better than to base it on him, for I’ve noticed he is very good at predicting certain characters or actions in plays or movies that I would NEVER have guessed. Within 5 minutes of meeting Willoughby, he did not like him. He must be a great judge of character, no matter how books or films try to hide traits and truths from the audience.

4. A turn of the century review describes Mrs. Jennings as a character it is "equally delightful to have met on paper and not to have met in the flesh." Why is it delightful to spend time reading about a character who would be tedious in person?

Considering I do spend time with tedious people—never in such long amounts, thank goodness!—I guess it is fun in a book because when they annoy me, I can either skip that part or close the book. If anything, I can be grateful that I can make faces or comments to relieve my annoyance or frustration and never worry about hurting that person’s feelings!

5. What did you think of the dueling scene?

2008 film – certainly a fun addition!

3rd reading of book—I can’t believe it’s in there! I thought the movie had just sensationalized. But it’s there. Not in detail, but it is referred to. Awesome!!!

6. "One's happiness must in some measure be always at the mercy of chance," the narrator says at one point. What role does chance play in the fates of the main characters?

Uh. I think this is too deep for my brain right now. (Give me a break! It’s summer reading. The fact that I wake up and remember to shower and dress before going to work is a bonus!) I guess one has to believe in fate. I don’t. My spiritual beliefs have another reason and word for that. I guess here fate is that both girls got to go to London. If they never had, how much less (or more) would Marianne’s reactions have been to Willoughby’s marriage? Mrs. Dashwood would have immediately been there to comfort—and probably commiserate with her over-sensibilities. Would Colonel Brandon ever have shared what he knew? Would Edward have known that Elinor knew of his engagement. Would Colonel Brandon have offered the living? After all, the girls’ being in London caused their Barton acquaintances to meet with their familial acquaintances. Would Lucy and Nancy have been invited to the Dashwoods if the sisters hadn’t been there?

I suppose that could be stretched to—fate that John Dashwood’s wife had a brother such as Edward? Who happened to come to Norland and meet Elinor? Who now could see just how much he did not love Lucy and knew of a better woman? Fate that the Dashwood women ended up in Barton? Where they met Brandon? And Mrs. Jennings? And well, the whole story we know ensuing?

Yes. I could say fate as others know it definitely played a role.

7. Elinor considers Lucy's marriage to Robert Ferrars as "extraordinary and unaccountable," "completely a puzzle." Is it completely a puzzle to you as well?

It is once in a while. But then I think of Lucy’s conniving person—trying to get what’s better. I liked how Edward in the ’95 film refers to the fortune being transferred to his brother, and Lucy’s affections subsequently following. I would not put it beneath her there. I also understood more with the book’s explanation that Lucy kept trying over and over to get in Robert’s good graces, and turned his vanity to her uses.

8. Why doesn't Colonel Brandon fall in love with Elinor?

I wondered that over and over the 1st and 2nd time I read in the books. The movies always did a good job in letting me see that they were just not meant for each other. My 3rd time reading helped me see a good friendship there and seeing when I never did before that they were not meant for each other. Probably helps that I’ve been through my college and YSA years with many male friends and better understanding wonderful, respectful friendships like that.

What I do not get is what he sees in Marianne? Sorry. But she may have been likeable in the movies—particularly the 2008 version. But in the book, I did not like her. Not until the absolute very end. So I have trouble seeing how any man could want her. Or I don’t want to see how any man could. I already put up with that in my life and am unceasingly saying to myself “to each his own” and “don’t compare.”

9. Why does Lucy get to be happier than Willoughby?

Well, she did nothing against her virtue. Maybe Austen was putting forth a moral here. Who knows. And honestly. Lucy may bother and have been vicious—but it was her female jealousy and possession. She relinquished only for her own better interests sure. But I don’t think she is as loathsome as Willoughby. She began as an ignorant and innocent girl who thought herself in love and then had a stranglehold on the relationship that came out of it. But she didn’t try to play with a person’s feelings for her pleasure and amusement all the while knowing she had debauched someone else. Her tormenting Elinor may have been for her pleasure and amusement, but I don’t think it quite compares to Willoughby’s toying with a willing and unsuspecting Marianne.

10. "Wealth has much to do with...happiness," Elinor states at one point. "Elinor, for shame!" says Marianne. "Money can only give happiness where there is nothing else to give it." What is the relationship between love and money in Sense and Sensibility? Is it different for different characters? Has the relationship between love and money changed in today's world?

I saw that money didn’t bring happiness. Even in poor circumstances people were able to find happiness. And in wealth, some were not happy. I saw that it had to do with the person. I just find it funny as to who said which quote, they ended up the opposite what their sentiments said. Elinor was in a lower income, and yet was very happy. And Marianne had plenty of happiness, with money as a perk! But I know that Elinor said it at the time, knowing how dependent Edward was at the time on having something given to him so he could live on his own—thus his and her happiness could not be complete without some bit of wealth.

11. What do you think this story would have been like if it has been through Marianne’s eyes?

Oh my. Don’t even go there. There would have been no sense whatsoever. And would there have been readers (including me, gah!) that would have completely agreed with her every feeling and thought and sentiment. Ug. What a nauseating thought.

12. Do you find Marianne's decision to marry Colonel Brandon to be a plausible conclusion? Why or why not?

Well, yes, since the book kept pointing to her as a reward for his constancy, etc. I didn’t quite like the wording, but it seemed okay. He was the more mature, romantic, sensible man who could have high estimation in her mind once she received her own maturity. The ’95 film did better in showing this. The 2008 film did a great job with that.

13. Although it ends with the marriages of the two main female characters, some readers have claimed that of all of Austen's novels, Sense and Sensibility has the saddest ending. Do you agree with this statement?

I guess. For those who were all for Willoughby, they might be sad. Or wanting Edward and Elinor to have more wealth than what they ended with. Or that the evil or awful people (namely Willoughby and Lucy) were not entirely punished or unhappy at the end. I didn’t find it all that sad though. And the movies certainly don’t give that off.

Just some comments that didn’t fit in with the questions:

-the 70s film version is painful to watch. An interesting look to see what others thought. But. Wow. Not one I ever want to watch again.

-the 80s version. Not awful. Just that feel that all those BBC movies in the 80s and early 90s had. The obvious indoor vs. outdoor scenes. The extremely plain and often too old characters. Yeah. If I’m going to envision it, I like to envision it a little more glamorous. Because that’s how I like it.

-I really liked hearing the interview and commentary during the 2008 version. Opened up a lot more of what the film-people chose to do.

-The Austen bio I read as I read this (the 3rd time) book helped me enjoy and understand it much better.

-I don’t really dislike the book any more. I like it a lot more. But I have to acknowledge that the film versions (particularly ’95 and 2008) help me know, appreciate, and like the book than I would on its own. ‘Cause I still had a couple of beefs with the book. But they were personal and I would never attribute them to Austen. Of course.

HG Trilogy - Character Recall

At last! The very last part of our Hunger Games trilogy discussion. I was curious to what some of your opinions were concerning the characters—not just the main ones. So I found a list on Wikipedia (Further Character Info). It helped me in remembering some of the characters' parts in the trilogy. The following list follows the order given there, in case you need a reminder yourself. Feel free to comment on as many or as little as you would like.


Major Characters

Katniss Everdeen – not my favorite character ever written. But I liked going through the series through her eyes.

Peeta Mellark – Love, love, love Peeta!

Gale Hawthorne – Nice name. Not my kinda guy. I feel sorry for him. And am a little angry with him at the end.

Haymitch Abernathy – the man you hate to love. So crusty, and repulsive at times. And frustrating about if you can or cannot trust him. But he is very deep, and when I reach those depths. Wow. I can’t help but like his character. Almost like a father-figure to Katniss, though I don’t know if she would admit that, or even see it.

Primrose Everdeen – dear Prim. Glad we got to see her more in the 3rd book and that she was able to “come into her own” as a character. Being a younger sister, I think I can sympathize more what it must have been like for her to have her sister take her place. And yet still try to be of use once her sister becomes the symbol of a revolution.

President Snow – ICK!!!!!! Be gone evil one!!!!!!

District 1 – 74th HG

Marvel – how dare you kill Rue! I don’t care if that is the point of the games. Where was your compassion and tenderness? Katniss had it!

Glimmer - not a fun way to die

District 1 – 75th HG

Cashmere – do not like you

Gloss – do not like you

District 2 – 74th HG

Cato – did not like you, but your death was still pretty gruesome and I had some pity for you

Clove – don’t remember much of you, but if you were not trying to help others survive (which you certainly weren’t!), then I don’t like you

District 2 – 75th HG

Brutus – don’t remember you

Enobaria – you are creepy

District 3 – 74th HG

No-named boy – the poor no-names.

District 3 – 75th HG

Beetee – back and forth on him. I liked him. But I got mad at some of the things he was doing (like the bomb development)

Wiress – I really liked her and was very upset with her death

District 4 – 74th HG

Unnamed girl – another very painful death. Makes me nervous with summertime coming up. Just glad I’m not in a place with as many insects any more.

District 4 – 75th HG

Finnick Odair – ah Finnick. You repulsed me at first, but had me by the end. I’m so glad you were able to marry your sweetheart. Your end was very hard for me.

Mags – you sweet thing.

District 5 – 74th HG

Foxface (nickname) – I’m sorry for your death and that you were a thief. But better a thief than a killer. Thank you for avoiding killing anyone.

District 5 – 75th HG

Unnamed male morphling – you poor thing

Unnamed female morphling - ditto

District 7 – 75th HG

Johanna – boy it was hard trying to like you, but I was pretty upset in Book 3 to hear the Capitol had you. I’m happy you survived, even if you aren’t my favorite person. Not even sure we could ever be friends.

Blight – I don’t remember you much

District 8 – 74th HG

Unnamed girl – ignorance is not always bliss

District 8 – 75th HG

Cecelia – no time to get to know you, but I’m sorry for your children

Woof – don’t know you

District 9 – 74th HG

Unnamed boy – the first death—it was not easy for me

District 10 – 74th HG

Unnamed boy – hats off to you for surviving so long

District 11 – 74th HG

Thresh – I liked you

Rue – oh, dear Rue. I’m glad you were taken care of after your death

District 11 – 75th HG

Seeder – don’t know you

Chaff – don’t know you either



Other characters

District 12

Madge Undersee – I really hoped you would have survived

Darius – how dare they! You poor man.

Delly Cartwright – I liked your attitude and cheerfulness, and (of course) your attempts to help Peeta

Mrs. Everdeen – I wasn’t very impressed with her. I know she was pretty shattered from the loss of her husband, but I had hoped she’d step up a bit more. Still, can’t blame her at all.

Greasy Sae – I knew she was a woman, but that name kept making me think man! I liked her. A good supporting minor character

Hazelle Hawthorne – I don’t feel I got to know her well enough


Capitol

Effie Trinket – one word comes to mind: fluff. Another word could be added: self-centered.

Cinna – I think I had a bit of a crush on Cinna, and not for his fashion tastes and ideas. There was just, something about him. Not sure what. But I totally agree with whoever it was that I think a part of him was attracted to Katniss.

Octavia, Venia, Flavius – fluff, fluff, and more fluff. Though I felt sorry for them in Book 3.

Lavinia (Avox girl) – this poor thing.

Seneca Crane – how can you like someone who creates any of the games? But I still feel bad for his end

Plutarch Heavensbee – I don’t really like this man. Another case of not-so-good on the “good” side

Caesar Flickerman – This guy made me laugh. I really don’t know why.

Portia – don’t really know her much.

Tigris – she creeped me out, but I was glad she helped out

District 13

President Alma Coin - Grrrrrrrrr

Boggs – I really, really liked Boggs! I almost cried about him.

Leeg 1, Leeg 2, Mitchell, Jackson, Homes – I liked that these were the guys accompanying Katniss in the Capitol. Somehow, I felt better “being in” the party with them there, too.

Cressida – Typical journalist. I have an admiration/irked relationship with journalists in my world. No different with Cressida.

Castor – I was sad that he died, but sometimes forgot he was even there. Perhaps that’s a behind the camera thing.

Pollux – I remember that I liked him

Messalla – don’t really remember him

Paylor – don’t remember him at all!


District 8

Twill – way to go for escaping!

Bonnie – ditto!

District 4

Annie Cresta – you poor sweetie. My heart goes out to you still


For more discussion—because there has been a lot of it on YALSA’s book Listserv—what do you think of who they have been casting for the movie? (Movie Cast) I have found it funny how opinionated some are about who is playing who. It’s been fun to dream cast with others.

-I can’t remember who some of us were voting Hugh Laurie to be. We were just voting because, well, it’s Hugh Laurie!

-I do think it would have been interesting to see Kristin Chenoweth as Effie. But I’ve seen her in enough shallow, air-head roles. I prefer when she plays more in-depth characters.

-I’m all about John C. Reilly as Haymitch for looks definitely. But I think his acting would be good, too.

But honestly, I was so involved with the story and the symbolism and such, that before all this YALSA discussion, I never thought much about who I would want to play who if the books were made into movies. Actually, I don’t think I do that much at all when I’m reading. Some times I don’t even think of it until after I’ve seen a movie adaptation—and then I have ideas of whom I would have liked to see.

So no one so far has really been a disappointment. I’m just intrigued as to how the actors and actresses will choose to portray the characters. I’m glad for some of the roles they’re going with lesser-known actors.

I’m most interested in how Peeta will come out. At least I’ve seen the actor in something before.

All together now

Hunger Games Trilogy

1. How is the society of Panem like others you have seen in movies or read in books?

In my GoodReads review, I commented that the book "was a unique mix of 'The Lottery' (which I love) + 'The Most Dangerous Game' + 'Lord of the Flies' + '1984' with even a little 'Truman Show.'" Panem was a lot like the society in 1984. Confinement to social status and employment. Being watched (though not to an extreme until they were in the Games). Some bigger power crushing the people and their wills and right to freedom. Hmmm...that last bit is starting to sound like....our own government. And some others in this world. I know for many this story being like unto our world is a stretch. But to me, it was not. Too many similarities, often symbolic. I don’t know if Collins meant to write that, but it’s what I saw. And it’s one of the main reasons this trilogy got to me as much as it did. (Which is rare, because I don’t look for the political when I’m reading fiction. I’m trying to escape it!!)

2. How did you feel about Katniss’ self-image throughout the trilogy?

Well, she’s like a teenager in being unsure and faltering and being human. But there were a few times that I wanted to shake her to see that she had great qualities and needed to see them and accept them. Huh—I wonder how many people want to do that concerning me. So, yes, her self-image issues were annoying. But they were also a smack toward me to stop being that way myself!

3. Overall thoughts and feelings about the actions and directions Katniss’ relationships were with the competing males?

Thought #1: Stop taking wonderful Peeta for granted!

Thought #2: Leave poor Gale alone!

Thought #3: You’re botching it all up! Leave the story and let me step in so I can treat Peeta the way he deserves.

4. What would you have done the same or differently as various characters in the books? (Pick whatever character and situations you want to discuss here.)

Inside the games, I leave Katniss to her own choices and actions. She did well there and I would never have succeeded. But outside of it, that’s a very different story. I think I would have changed most of what she did or didn’t do. But that’s me, and I’m also the outsider looking in. Of course I would think/want my choices and actions would/to be different!

If I were Peeta, I might have been less timid in the beginning to let Katniss know these were my true feelings. But then, he didn’t realize until later that she really wasn’t getting it. And it wouldn’t be like Peeta to be that way.

If I were Gale, I’d just walk away from the Katniss thing. But that’s because I thought it was obvious he didn’t stand a chance—Peeta or no. It wouldn’t have worked once Katniss endured the first games, because he didn’t know how to understand and she didn’t know how to communicate about it. Sure that’s something that could be learned, but I don’t think she was very willing for that.

5. Favorite part(s)?

Loved seeing the tributes work together in the 2nd games. Anything where Peeta showed his feelings and concern for Katniss. (Though I have my errr about the sleeping parts.) And as awful and even gory as it was, I liked it when they were trying to infiltrate the capital in Book 3. The fragility of life and their situation and everything was so real. So well-written.

6. Least favorite part(s)?

Katniss taking Peeta for granted. Anything with Coin or Snow—I didn’t like either of them. 

Tweet Tweet...at Last!

I decided to bite the bullet and push forward with the Hunger Games book discussion(s). I was rather abbreviated and can't believe I've already forgotten some things. But, I answered. Perhaps some of your comments will remind me of some of my thoughts and feelings--as well as the book. Or they may bring out what I'm trying to keep under control! :-)

Mockingjay

1. What did you think about District 13? Did you have any idea about it?

Well, there were the hints about it still existing in the 2nd book. So I guess I wasn’t shocked about 13 being there, but was relieved that it was there. Besides, what would the story have been like without 13?

As far as 13 itself, it definitely had its creepy qualities. And I often felt like hyperventilating. That was either because the district was so restrictive, or because of my slight claustrophobia.

2. Did you agree with Katniss becoming the Mockingjay? 

Not really. But it wasn’t her decision as much as it was there needing to be a Mockingjay at all. I don’t trust movements or such that rely solely on a symbol that has been created and which others must scramble around, stretch, and bend over backwards to keep up. Act on your own convictions people—don’t wait to stand up and fight for your beliefs and for your freedom!

Oh. Sorry. Carried away there.

3. What did you think of the “Peeta development?” 

I definitely did not expect that aspect at all. And it frustrated me so much because I wanted my Peeta back. I wanted to hear my Peeta’s words and see my Peeta’s actions. ‘Cause, yeah, I’m kinda in love with my Peeta. It also hurt me so much, to see him not being...him. That was good writing and creative story develpoment to get me all worked up in so many ways where Peeta was concerned. I did like the development in Katniss where he was related, because now she couldn’t take him for granted and came to see just how wonderful and amazing Peeta was/is. And that she fought for him (she needed to). But I couldn't bear to see Peeta in such pain and confusion. *sniff*

4. What did you think of Katniss and Gale’s relationship? 

I don’t care how much was written in the 2nd book, I still feel like Gale was an after-thought to throw in so there could be a love triangle. And if you take that away, then there is the fact that no matter what was alledgedly possible between Gale and Katniss, after the games Peeta is not only much better for her, but he’s the only one who fully and truly tries to understand her and be there for her the way she needs someone. And take THAT away, and it boils down to that I just never liked Gale. Ever. There's more to a man than just being brawny and bringing home the bacon (or hunting or whatever). There's compassion and consideration and gentleness and understanding and selflessness and....oh wow. I am way too much in love with a non-existent person.

5. Did you have any kind of hope in this book, and what was it for? 

I had hope for Peeta. That he would turn out all right. I had hope that the stupid war would end. I had hope for the cat, of all things. I had hope that happiness could be found. I actually had hope for quite a few things, but I think that’s because I’ve come to face life with looking for whatever hope I can. Life would be unbearable without things to hope for.

6. What do you think really happened with the children near the end? 

It’s been a while and I’m forgetting exact details of the end, and what exactly was meant by this question. But I think I thought that Snow was telling the truth. That Coin was behind it all. Because that would be so like her twisted, conniving, cruel, using-others, selfish self.

7. How did you feel about the way things ended up? 

Still shocked about some people’s ends. But I was actually very happy about how the war “ended,” and most especially about Katniss and Peeta. Though parts of my Peeta are forever gone, I like that that was "realistic"--war touches everyone and everything. And nothing is the same after it.

Hunger Games Trilogy Answers - Part 2

Catching Fire

1. What did you think about Gale and Katniss’ relationship after the games?

In all honesty, I never liked Gale. I didn’t feel I knew him well enough from the first book, so I was rather irked that Katniss was upset with how he was acting at the beginning of Book 2. It’s probably just me, but I felt that if he’d had feelings before, he should have told her before she left for the Games. Since he didn’t, he really did not have much of a right to act all mad and stinky about what occurred during the Games because she didn’t know that it was upsetting him. I was glad Gale did most of his annoyance and anger in silence, though.

2. As you read, what did you think Katniss’ feelings were toward Peeta? Gale?

I think Katniss felt obligated to Peeta. That she felt she would forever owe him for many things. While that may be true, it’s no foundation for love. And I felt that what she felt for Gale was confusion overall with what was going on and guilt that things weren’t how they used to be. Also a bit of owing him for how he took care of her family. Again—none of that is a foundation for love either. Yes. I know I’m harsh on Katniss. But that’s because I knew what I wanted and was so angry that I just couldn’t step in and treat Peeta as he deserved. (And if there are any Gale supporters out there, don’t you wish you could have pushed Katniss aside and treated Gale as he deserved?)

3. What were you thinking/feeling when President Snow was in her house?

My main thought was “How dare he come into her home!” The underlying thought from that was “This man is creepy.” My overall feeling was “uh oh.”

4. What did you think about the Victory Tour?

It was interesting to get a glimpse of the other districts. I was saddened about the engagement farce, for Peeta’s sake. I was a bit torn on the whole nightmare-Peeta-holding-Katniss part. I mean, it was sweet and showed just how much Katniss needed Peeta after this life-altering experience. But I struggled with the close proximity of this unmarried couple and couldn’t get beyond how I felt something about it was wrong. Yep—I’m that strict in my personal standards. Why else do you think I hate the 3rd Twilight book?

5. Did you figure out Plutarch’s part?

I had my guesses as soon as he showed the ring that he was on Katniss’ side. But I wasn’t sure just what the part was that he was playing.

6. What were your thoughts about the ending?

“Oh. My. Gosh.” I couldn’t believe it about District 12. It was such a twist and a shock to me. The end of the Games was sudden and fast, and I had to listen to it twice to fully comprehend what happened.

Goose, Part 5

Whoa. Sorry about the huge break in there. Life went into a crazy overdrive in so many ways. So I'm spending my evening off (finally!) answering the rest of the questions, before move on to the work I brought home.

7. What was your favorite “scene” in the book?

There were a few that I really liked. Of course! I liked any time Geric and Isi where in the meadow together. But I also really liked the face down scene between Isi and Selia in the castle--because I just knew that somehow Selia was going to be caught.

8. What was your least favorite “scene?”

Hmmm.... I guess near the beginning when Isi's mother was so unfeeling. A whole lot of the beginning was not happy for me. But if I hadn't experienced it, I wouldn't have been as happy with how things ended up. (Oh my--another parallel to life.)

9. What was your favorite part of the book?

It's a toss-up between Isi's coming into her own, and the varying and growing relationship between Isi and Geric.

10. What was you least favorite part?

Either Conrad's whininess or just how awful Isi's mother was.

11. What are your thoughts on Hale’s writing style?

I LOVE it! I love her fantasy/fractured fairy tale works. They are so fun and the worlds she creates are so real. Not the biggest fan of her adult works. Of course, I've only read one and had such a horrible distaste for it that I didn't want to bother with the other.

12. Have you read any of Hale’s other works? What are your impressions in comparison?

I've now read the entire Bayern series, the award-winning Princess Academy, Book of a Thousand Days, both graphic novels, and the aforementioned adult novel. (Can it be only a year ago that I had only read Princess, Thousand, and the adult novel?!) Princess Academy was cute and sweet. But I don't remember being mesmerized as I was with some of the Bayern books, and especially by Book of a Thousand Days. The graphic novels are very entertaining. And the adult novel was disappointing partly because I thought she had much more potential in her writing and didn't put the obvious skills from her children's/YA works into the adult work.

Goose, Part 4

5. How did you feel about Falada?

I know I've already mentioned some of this in answers. So, I thought the horse-speaking was a little far-fetched at first. But I was still "close" to the horse and had to keep from crying over his fate. When its head ended up on the gate, I thought, "What?!" It seemed too gruesome and far-fetched. So I researched and learned that part was in an older telling of the fairy tale. So I just accepted it and moved on.

6. Did you think the magical/mystical elements worked in the book? Were they believable? Did they flow well in the story?

I think the magical elements worked in the book. It took me a while to accept people-speaking, but I certainly had by the end to make Celia's evilness even more so. And since I felt like I was learning wind-speaking right along with Isi, that seemed believable, too. And I'm thinking it flowed well, too. But I will admit that sometimes when the story is interesting enough, I sometimes ignore if the writing did well in conveying it. (I can think of one example in particular, but I won't even mention it as it very much pales in comparison to Hale and her writing and stories.) However, I enjoy Hale's writing too much and I think I can defend that she made them flow well in the story.

Goose, Part 3

4. Because we love them so--OK, because I love them so--I saved Isi and Geric for their own question. What were your thoughts about Isi as the book progressed? What were your thoughts on Geric? Did you have your suspicions about him?

I've been mentioning in previous answers already that as the book progressed, I loved Isi more. I loved going along with her as she found her confidence and strength, learned lessons, and made friends--especially with Geric. Yes. I am in love with Geric. Very, very much. And from the time he first entered the book, I knew he was the prince. I just...knew it. So I went about the whole time smirking over this prince with faults and weaknesses, who was mesmerized and uplifted by Isi. I still enjoyed the "surprise" of the revelation, though.

I know I could go into more detail. But I'm just going to state it this way:

I love, love, love, love, LOVE Geric and Isi. Separately, and together.

Goose, Part 2

3. In my opinion, there are so many well-written characters in this book. Ones you just love, and ones you just don’t. It’s one of the best things about the book! So let’s hear some of your thoughts on the following:

Enna - I love Enna. She's fun, spunky, strong, and doesn't take anything from anyone. But some times she is just a bit too tough for me. I want to be strong and fun and spunky, but I also want to be tender. And Isi seems to have more of the tenderness that I would wish for myself. Enna on her own, I probably would have thought her great and left it there. But put her next to Isi, and every time I will opt for the gentler of the two. (Which I do in every book in the series.)

Gilsa - Loved her from the start. Knew she would be a gruff country mother figure from the start. Wish she could have played a slightly larger role in the book (and the series!).

Selia - I wanted to slap her at the beginning because I thought she was unfair to Ani. And then her betrayal? Well, I wanted to slap her again! And as the book progressed, I was ready to tear out her hair and mace her eyes and do all sorts of Enna-like things. Another reason why I'd like to be more like Isi, because it's more how I think I should be.

Isi’s mother - She made me so mad. How dare a mother treat her own daughter like that. No matter how awkward our child can be, you should still love them unconditionally. And if Isi's mother did. I certainly didn't get that vibe. Loved her, yes. But approved, trusted, supported, etc? Nope.

Razo - A showy goof-off who reminded me too much of the boys I knew in Junior High. Didn't dislike him. But I'm 15 years past that stage of life and those guys can be a bit too annoying for me now.

Conrad - Though he made me laugh, he still was pretty annoying. Such a whiner. But the hat scene was a great laugh.

other minor character - I can't remember who the good guard's name was, but I LOVE him! He's like a teddy bear, father figure, older brother, and chocolate covered donuts all in one. How can you not love the guy?

Goose, Part 1

Just to warn/prepare you: Answering these might take just a little longer since Summer Reading begins today and I don't know how easy daily will be. We'll see. But wish me luck--I am so nervous!!!!

1. What were your impressions of Ani/Isi in the first few chapters? Did you relate to her in any way?

In the first few chapters, I didn't like Ani very much. Maybe one or two small things, but overall, not really. I had thought at first that it was interesting Hale used her as a main character. She seemed too weak. Too self-doubting with too much room to grow to become a character I would really enjoy and want to emulate. But I should never have doubted Hale, because she did just that. And by the end of the book, Ani/Isi had become one of my favorite literary characters. I love her! It surprises me sometimes how much I love her. But then, I wonder if it wasn't just Ani that needed the self discovery, but that we needed to learn who she was, too. Isn't that how it is with people in general? We should get to know them better before we make judgements?

I think one reason I didn't like her so much would be that I could relate to her in some ways, and they were exactly the ways I didn't want to. So finding her overcome those obstacles, fears, and weaknesses was even more rewarding and uplifting for me.

So, in the first few chapters, no. But as Ani became Isi, yes, I loved her.

2. Did you have suspicions about Selia before the trip began?

Well, I knew something was supposed to happen to cause Isi to become a goose girl. (I mean, it's the title of the book. And it's in the book description!) And I knew I didn't trust Selia. But I had no clue the part Selia would play. Especially as the book progressed. That was one well-written villainess.

Not One Less

Here's another Book Challenge clarification that I need.

I don't count a series as a series unless there are at least 3 books. (So, yes, trilogies are series to me.)

For my 1st in a Series Challenge: Am I allowed to count a book that is intended to be a series, but it is the only one written so far?

I'm thinking that should be a no, if I want to uphold my Finish that Series Challenge agreement that reading the last book published counts, even if you know more will come eventually.

What do you readers think?

Tuck Questions!

I'm totally copping out on this round of questions:

-No quotes with each question--sorry my copy is packed up and in another apartment and I didn't want to wait until I could obtain a library copy.

-Many of them based on questions I found.

-Not the most wow or fun questions to answer.

But, there are questions! So in a week I'll begin answering them a couple at a time. Please send along your own responses!

1. What are the conflicts in Tuck Everlasting?

2. What are some symbols in Tuck Everlasting?

3. What is your reaction to the Tucks' home? Is it a place you would like to be?

4. Imagine if the story had been at another time or place. How would it be different? What changes would have occurred in the story?

5. Have you ever been homesick? How did you feel? Would you have considered Winnie was homesick?

6. Do you find the characters likable? Would you want to meet the characters?

7. Would you want to look like you do now when you are 87?

8. What is the role of women in the text?

9. Have you seen the movie? What were your impressions of the adaptation?

10. Did you relate to Winnie?

11. Did you have any suspicions about the man in the yellow suit?

12. What are your thoughts on living forever?

13. Did the story end the way you expected?

14. What do you think about Jesse's offer to Winnie?

15. What would you have done if you were Winnie?

16. Any thoughts on that toad?

Sick = Holiday Skipping

I'm here! I've had a birthday and a cold, but I'm still around. Trying to get a new poll up and I want to make sure it's a good one. Thought I would write so you knew I was hanging in there.

To liven things up, I'd like to hear some opinions. And as birthday is over and I'm currently on an ignore Halloween kick (sorry CK and Meredith!) because I've had it up to here listening to talk of Twilight and New Moon (sorry again, Meredith! And to the other lovers of it). I can handle some talk here and there. But really...I shouldn't have had to listen to all of that on my birthday. 'Cause it was my birthday!!! And with being sick on that day and enduring things I didn't want to endure, it didn't feel as much like my birthday as I'd hoped. Anywho. Now with birthday over, I'm skipping over to Christmas for a couple of days. Just because.

There is a new Christmas Carol film version coming out (and I'm aware of it more than typical because of a library program I'm hoping will get the go ahead). It has animation similar to Polar Express (which I wasn't the biggest fan of, even if I found it interesting) and uses the main voice talent of Jim Carrey. If he could keep the film in a serious vein (Like Majestic and Truman Show) instead of his usual off-the-wall craziness, then I might be OK with it. But I'm still highly skeptical of this coming version. So here is the question:

If you could have any current actor/actress in your version, who would your ideal cast be?

Other questions for discussion:

What are some of your favorite parts of the book that you want in your film version?

What are parts from the book if you are required to cut for time that you would be willing to part with?

What would your soundtrack be like? Would you make it a fun musical like the Muppets and Albert Finney versions?

Animated or live-action?

If you considered a more modern adaptation--like An American Christmas Carol or Scrooged--what would it be like and how would you adapt it?

Much-Loved Literature-Based British Period Dramas on Film

With 7 people voting this time, here are the results!

Little Dorrit – 2008: 2 (28%)
Sense and Sensibility – 2008: 2 (28%)
Northanger Abbey – 2007: 2 (28%)
Persuasion – 2007: 2 (28%)
Jane Eyre – 2006: 5 (71%)
Under the Greenwood Tree – 2005: 1 (14%)
Bleak House – 2005: 0 (0%)
Pride and Prejudice – 2005: 3 (42%)
North & South – 2004: 1 (14%)
Master and Commander – 2003: 0 (0%)
The Young Visiters – 2003: 0 (0%)
The Importance of Being Earnest – 2002: 1 (14%)
Nicholas Nickleby – 2002: 1 (14%)
Daniel Deronda – 2002: 0 (0%)
The Way We Live Now - 2001: 0 (0%)
An Ideal Husband – 1999: 3 (42%)
Anna and the King – 1999: 2 (28%)
Great Expectations – 1999: 0 (0%)
Wives and Daughters – 1999: 2 (28%)
Mansfield Park – 1999: 2 (28%)
Horatio Hornblower series – 1998-2003: 3 (42%)
Tess of the D’urbervilles – 1998: 0 (0%)
Our Mutual Friend – 1998: 1 (14%)
The Woman in White - 1997: 0 (0%)
Emma – 1996: 1 (14%)
Emma – 1996 A&E: 1 (14%)
The Tenant of Wildfell Hall – 1996: 0 (0%)
Pride and Prejudice – 1995: 3 (42%)
Persuasion – 1995: 1 (14%)
Middlemarch – 1994: 0 (0%)
Remains of the Day – 1993: 0 (0%)
Wuthering Heights – 1992: 0 (0%)
Oliver! – 1968: 0 (0%)
My Fair Lady – 1964: 3 (42%)

I have decided to give my own synopses of these films (which will be rife with Heidi Comments!). I'm sure there will be plenty of spoilers, so here is your head's up now not to read them if you don't wish to know what will happen...or hear my good and/or bad opinions of things here and there.

As for the actual results? I'm perfectly happy with the overall winner: Jane Eyre 2006. Yay! Well done, voters! Some of the ones not voted for? Well, some weren't so great in my opinion, and others are probably not as heard about. My synopses may remedy that. What were some of your thoughts? I know SaraLyn's and mine are all over this blog. And I'm sure we have more of them, ha ha! But I am interested to hear from the readers what they did and/or didn't like about some of these movies.