Forum Etiquette

Reading 1-2 novels a week I consider myself an insatiable reader. My love for books began in early childhood learning to read at age 4 became my biggest incentive. My daughters began reading at 2 years of age. Yes, I admit I am bragging on my girls, I’m a Mom. I have this thing (I repeat “my thing”) about respecting how one takes care of the books they own be it personal or borrowed. No dog-eared pages, teach your child not tear out pages, no writing/scribbling on pages, and do your best to keep covers looking as new as possible while in your possession. Never ever throw a book away! Donate the book to a library, hospital, set them out with a “Free” sign on them at laundry-mat or pass it along to someone else you know that will enjoy the read. Passing this mind-set down to my girls instilled not only respect for books but in turn allowed them to build a treasured extensive library over the years. My oldest daughter who is 32 still has many of her childhood books all in excellent condition.

Almost 2 years ago I purchased an Amazon Kindle e-reader that has proved worthy of the hefty price tag. Saving me hundreds of dollars buying new books the majority of downloaded (less than a minute) books even new releases only cost $9.99 or less strongly justifies initial cost. This brings me to subject of this blog now. Occasionally, I write a review on a novel I’ve read on the coordinating Amazon book page. Reviews are helpful when considering the purchase of new book for me at least. Recently, I finished “The Passage” by Justin Cronin loved it and posted a review under the a.k.a. of another handle that I have had with Amazon for the last 10yrs.(secrets out..L) choosing not to change it for sentimental reasons. There was the following comment response this morning about my review. Needless to say I was a little irritated as a Texan however, greatly respecting the right to freedom of speech no matter what the subject. I am posting the following that I copied and pasted from Amazon review comment pages to share just because I am slightly amused as well.

Peace

Curmudgeon99 says:
Notice how all of the glowing 5-star reviews come from Texas, where the author lives? Sounds like fake reviews...

You replied with a later post

Your post, in reply to an earlier post on July 29, 2010 5:51 AM PDT
moonflower says:
Since when did a book review comment become a personal debate issue? I refuse to let what others think effect my own "personal" review of what I read, like or dislike. Please let us keep this community of reader "personal" opinions of a book civil and refrain from negative attacks on the author themselves. Thank you for taking the time to comment on my review, Curmudgeon99, at least you read the reviews. I respect your right to do so although believed odd on this sort of forum. "The Passage" at least for me, still ranks 5 stars. Have a nice day. Texas proud!

Re-connecting

This past weekend I had the pleasure of re-connecting with old friends that I went to school and grew up with in my home town. Something we try to do at least a few times a year or more. There was live Rock n' Roll, food, and of course Harley's. Growing up in a small town affords one always has the feeling of coming back home when events of this nature occurs. It’s real. Some of us live hundreds of miles away now. Some live as I do within a 50 mile radius however, each of us makes the effort to follow the beacon from the lighthouse home when activated and we are many.

At this point and age in my life I realize how blessed I am to still be close to the ones I love and grew up with. Each and every one us feel the same way and it is the reason why we each answer the call home again and again.

I love my friends and believe it or not after 20-30+ years we still genuinely like each other too. L We come together for a common goal. Re-connection.


Peace