October 2010 Host: Emily
Saturday, October 30, 2010
They Poured Fire on Us From the Sky
by Benson Deng, Alephonsion Deng, and Benjamin Ajak
with Judy A. Bernstein
Summary
This is a true story of three ‘Lost Boys’ from Sudan. The Deng brothers and their cousin Benjamin were all under the age of seven when they were forced to leave their homes during the Sudanese civil war. The three boys were forced to trek one thousand miles across Sudan to Kenya and Ethiopia without their parents or any supply of food and water. In addition to their hunger, they had to deal with the heat of the desert, hunting animals, snakes, insects, and thieves. They do eventually reach a refugee camp but the locals took the best from what the United Nations provided and left the refugees starving. The three boys eventually come to the United States through the efforts of the International Rescue Committee. This book educates the reader about the huge loss of life and horrible injustices done to children due to a war about race (Arabs against blacks), religion (Muslims against Christians), and riches (huge oil reserves in Sudan). The war started in 1983 and is still going on today, over two million have died in this war.
by Benson Deng, Alephonsion Deng, and Benjamin Ajak
with Judy A. Bernstein
Summary
This is a true story of three ‘Lost Boys’ from Sudan. The Deng brothers and their cousin Benjamin were all under the age of seven when they were forced to leave their homes during the Sudanese civil war. The three boys were forced to trek one thousand miles across Sudan to Kenya and Ethiopia without their parents or any supply of food and water. In addition to their hunger, they had to deal with the heat of the desert, hunting animals, snakes, insects, and thieves. They do eventually reach a refugee camp but the locals took the best from what the United Nations provided and left the refugees starving. The three boys eventually come to the United States through the efforts of the International Rescue Committee. This book educates the reader about the huge loss of life and horrible injustices done to children due to a war about race (Arabs against blacks), religion (Muslims against Christians), and riches (huge oil reserves in Sudan). The war started in 1983 and is still going on today, over two million have died in this war.
Discussion
-‘When two elephants fight, it is the grass that gets trampled.’ This is an African proverb that the three boys use to express that they are the grass and the adults at war are the elephants.
-It is amazing that throughout the their horrific journey, the boys continually display a deep love for their family and a strong will to survive - even through such horrors as passing trees with skeletons underneath where some refugees would sit to rest and never wake up.
-Besides a love of family and a strong will to survive, the boys were also filled with hope, a strong desire for education, and faith in God. You cannot help but be touched by these boys.
-This is a book of hope, not despair. It is a book of triumph, the boys were able to survive long enough to get out of a terrible situation and go on to become published authors living in the United States.
-This is a very inspirational book and would be a good read for middle and high school students The story reminds us how truly fortunate we are to live in this country and also provides us with heroes we would all be proud to emulate.
Menu
Assorted Appetizers
-‘When two elephants fight, it is the grass that gets trampled.’ This is an African proverb that the three boys use to express that they are the grass and the adults at war are the elephants.
-It is amazing that throughout the their horrific journey, the boys continually display a deep love for their family and a strong will to survive - even through such horrors as passing trees with skeletons underneath where some refugees would sit to rest and never wake up.
-Besides a love of family and a strong will to survive, the boys were also filled with hope, a strong desire for education, and faith in God. You cannot help but be touched by these boys.
-This is a book of hope, not despair. It is a book of triumph, the boys were able to survive long enough to get out of a terrible situation and go on to become published authors living in the United States.
-This is a very inspirational book and would be a good read for middle and high school students The story reminds us how truly fortunate we are to live in this country and also provides us with heroes we would all be proud to emulate.
Menu
Assorted Appetizers
Ingredients
8 (9 to 10 inch) tortillas
3 heaping tablespoons ranch dressing
3 heaping tablespoons soft cream cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup green onions, chopped
10 ounces thin sliced turkey breast
10 ounces thin sliced ham
¼ cup black olives (optional)
8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
Mix ranch dressing, cream cheese and garlic together. Spread mixture evenly on tortillas. Sprinkle green onions, black olives, turkey, ham, and cheddar cheese evenly between all eight tortillas. Roll tortillas up jellyroll style. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least two hours. Remove from refrigerator and slice at ¾ inch intervals. Arrange on tray and serve.
8 (9 to 10 inch) tortillas
3 heaping tablespoons ranch dressing
3 heaping tablespoons soft cream cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup green onions, chopped
10 ounces thin sliced turkey breast
10 ounces thin sliced ham
¼ cup black olives (optional)
8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
Mix ranch dressing, cream cheese and garlic together. Spread mixture evenly on tortillas. Sprinkle green onions, black olives, turkey, ham, and cheddar cheese evenly between all eight tortillas. Roll tortillas up jellyroll style. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least two hours. Remove from refrigerator and slice at ¾ inch intervals. Arrange on tray and serve.
Ingredients
2 packages reduced fat crescent rolls
1 package turkey lil smokies
Brown mustard
Poppy seeds and sesame seeds
Butter
Cut each crescent roll triangle into 3 smaller triangles. Brush with brown mustard/spicy mustard. Place one lil smoky on each triangle and roll up. Brush tops with melted butter and sprinkle with poppy seeds or sesame seeds. Bake in oven according to crescent roll directions or until brown. You can use mustard for dipping sauces if desired.
2 packages reduced fat crescent rolls
1 package turkey lil smokies
Brown mustard
Poppy seeds and sesame seeds
Butter
Cut each crescent roll triangle into 3 smaller triangles. Brush with brown mustard/spicy mustard. Place one lil smoky on each triangle and roll up. Brush tops with melted butter and sprinkle with poppy seeds or sesame seeds. Bake in oven according to crescent roll directions or until brown. You can use mustard for dipping sauces if desired.
Ingredients
2 boxes of Kraft Macaroni & Cheese (milk and butter for 2 boxes)
1 ½ c. shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 ½ c. shredded mild cheddar cheese
Plain breadcrumbs (roughly 1 cup)
Make macaroni and cheese according to directions (minus 2 table spoons of the butter—set aside).
Mix in 1 ¼ c. of each type of cheese to macaroni. Use salt and pepper to taste if desired.
To make breadcrumb topping: crumble in 2 tbsp butter and rest of the shredded cheese with plain breadcrumbs
Place macaroni in cupcake tins and top with breadcrumb topping.
Bake in 400 degree oven for 10 minutes or until topping is browned. Makes enough for 18-24 cups.
2 boxes of Kraft Macaroni & Cheese (milk and butter for 2 boxes)
1 ½ c. shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 ½ c. shredded mild cheddar cheese
Plain breadcrumbs (roughly 1 cup)
Make macaroni and cheese according to directions (minus 2 table spoons of the butter—set aside).
Mix in 1 ¼ c. of each type of cheese to macaroni. Use salt and pepper to taste if desired.
To make breadcrumb topping: crumble in 2 tbsp butter and rest of the shredded cheese with plain breadcrumbs
Place macaroni in cupcake tins and top with breadcrumb topping.
Bake in 400 degree oven for 10 minutes or until topping is browned. Makes enough for 18-24 cups.
Ingredients
1 stick butter
1 bag milk chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate, whichever is preferred)
1 cup peanut butter
1 box Crispix (or whatever kind of Chex type cereal you like)
1 box powdered sugar (about two cups)
Melt butter and chocolate chips in a saucepan or large pot over medium heat. Stir in the peanut butter. Turn off heat. Pour in the Crispix and turn until completely coated. Toss the coated Crispix in a Ziplock bag with the powdered sugar. Spread on wax paper to cool
1 stick butter
1 bag milk chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate, whichever is preferred)
1 cup peanut butter
1 box Crispix (or whatever kind of Chex type cereal you like)
1 box powdered sugar (about two cups)
Melt butter and chocolate chips in a saucepan or large pot over medium heat. Stir in the peanut butter. Turn off heat. Pour in the Crispix and turn until completely coated. Toss the coated Crispix in a Ziplock bag with the powdered sugar. Spread on wax paper to cool
Friday, September 24, 2010
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Summary
This is a simple story written in the style of a fable that is filled with life lessons. Santiago is an Andalusian boy who leaves his life as a shepherd in search of his Personal Legend, which he learns is a hidden treasure near the Egyptian pyramids. He leaves his home in Spain and his quest leads him to the markets of Tangier and then across the Egyptian desert. He perseveres even though there are many obstacles, including self doubts. Along the way he meets an Egyptian woman, a self proclaimed King, and an alchemist who all offer him direction. This story uses ancient mysticism and fantasy to urge people to follow their dreams. The treasure ends up being the discoveries and knowledge he has gained along the way (and a woman thrown in for good measure).
Discussion
-Surprisingly, there was a lot to discuss in one of the simplest stories that we have read. The primary theme that ran through our discussion was that the lessons learned were within the journey itself and that those lessons could never have been learned without having gone through the journey.
-This book encourages us to consider what our own dreams are (our personal legend) and what we have to do to pursue them and how the universe might conspire with us to achieve those goals. Although this may not be the best novel you have ever read, it will have you pondering whether or not you will be fulfilled in five or even the next fifty years. Our own personal legend is to achieve our dreams.
-It was noted that in our own experiences, when we felt as one with nature or took a moment to take in the beauty of nature, it was also accompanied with a sense of spirituality.
-Other themes in this story are to always listen to our hearts as that is where our treasure lies, we won’t be happy until we achieve our dreams, and if someone truly loves you, they will wait for you until you do find your treasure
Ingredients
8 oz orzo
6 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup freIshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
1 lb uncooked medium shrimp, peeled & deveined
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 14 oz. can diced tomatoes in juice
1/2 cup dry white wine (plus a glass for yourself!)
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper (can add less to taste, I used ¼ tsp)
Brush glass baking dish with oil. Cook orzo according to package directions. Drain well and return orzo to same pot. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/4 cup feta, Parmesan cheese, and 2 tablespoons basil; stir to blend. Arrange orzo mixture in prepared dish.
Heat 2 tablespoons oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and saute until slightly pink, about 2 minutes (shrimp will not be cooked through). Arrange shrimp atop orzo. Add remaining 2 tablespoons oil to same skillet. Add garlic and saute over medium-high heat 30 seconds. Add tomatoes with juice; cook 1 minute. Stir in wine, oregano, crushed red pepper and remaining 1/4 cup basil. Simmer uncovered until reduced to thick sauce consistency, stirring occasionally, about 2 minutes. Season sauce to taste with salt and pepper, spoon over shrimp. Bake orzo at 400 degrees until heated through, about 10 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining 3/4 cup feta cheese and serve.
8 oz orzo
6 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup freIshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
1 lb uncooked medium shrimp, peeled & deveined
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 14 oz. can diced tomatoes in juice
1/2 cup dry white wine (plus a glass for yourself!)
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper (can add less to taste, I used ¼ tsp)
Brush glass baking dish with oil. Cook orzo according to package directions. Drain well and return orzo to same pot. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/4 cup feta, Parmesan cheese, and 2 tablespoons basil; stir to blend. Arrange orzo mixture in prepared dish.
Heat 2 tablespoons oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and saute until slightly pink, about 2 minutes (shrimp will not be cooked through). Arrange shrimp atop orzo. Add remaining 2 tablespoons oil to same skillet. Add garlic and saute over medium-high heat 30 seconds. Add tomatoes with juice; cook 1 minute. Stir in wine, oregano, crushed red pepper and remaining 1/4 cup basil. Simmer uncovered until reduced to thick sauce consistency, stirring occasionally, about 2 minutes. Season sauce to taste with salt and pepper, spoon over shrimp. Bake orzo at 400 degrees until heated through, about 10 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining 3/4 cup feta cheese and serve.
Ingredients
1 large acorn squash, halved and seeded
3 tablespoons butter
1 cup diced celery
1 cup finely chopped onion
1 cup fresh or canned portabella mushrooms, sliced
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 pinch ground black pepper
1 teaspoon chopped parsley
1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Place squash cut side down in a glass dish. Cook in microwave for 10 minutes on HIGH, until almost tender.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and add celery and onion; saute until transparent. Stir in mushrooms; cook 2 to 3 minutes more. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and parsley. Divide mixture in half, spoon into the squash and cover.
Cook 15 minutes in the preheated 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) oven. Uncover, sprinkle with cheese and put back in the oven until the cheese bubbles.
1 large acorn squash, halved and seeded
3 tablespoons butter
1 cup diced celery
1 cup finely chopped onion
1 cup fresh or canned portabella mushrooms, sliced
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 pinch ground black pepper
1 teaspoon chopped parsley
1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Place squash cut side down in a glass dish. Cook in microwave for 10 minutes on HIGH, until almost tender.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and add celery and onion; saute until transparent. Stir in mushrooms; cook 2 to 3 minutes more. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and parsley. Divide mixture in half, spoon into the squash and cover.
Cook 15 minutes in the preheated 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) oven. Uncover, sprinkle with cheese and put back in the oven until the cheese bubbles.
Ingredients
FOR THE FILLING
-4 ripe peaches, pitted, peeled if desired, each sliced into 8 wedges
-1 tablespoon granulated sugar
-1 tablespoon fresh basil (3 to 4 leaves, torn if large)
-1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
-1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
FOR THE TOPPING
-2 ounces chopped almonds (1/3 cup)
-1/3 cup packed light-brown sugar
-1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
-1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
-1 1/2 ounces (3 tablespoons) cold unsalted butter, cut into 6 pieces
-Heavy cream, for serving (optional)
Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Make the filling: Mix all ingredients to combine.
Make the topping: Combine all ingredients (except cream), rubbing in butter with your fingers until mixture is crumbly.
Divide filling among four 5 1/2-inch round baking dishes, and sprinkle with topping. Transfer to a baking sheet. Bake until bubbling and golden brown, 25 to 27 minutes. Let cool slightly. Drizzle with heavy cream if desired.
Read more at Marthastewart.com: Peach-and-Basil Crumbles Recipe - MarthaStewart.com
FOR THE FILLING
-4 ripe peaches, pitted, peeled if desired, each sliced into 8 wedges
-1 tablespoon granulated sugar
-1 tablespoon fresh basil (3 to 4 leaves, torn if large)
-1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
-1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
FOR THE TOPPING
-2 ounces chopped almonds (1/3 cup)
-1/3 cup packed light-brown sugar
-1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
-1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
-1 1/2 ounces (3 tablespoons) cold unsalted butter, cut into 6 pieces
-Heavy cream, for serving (optional)
Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Make the filling: Mix all ingredients to combine.
Make the topping: Combine all ingredients (except cream), rubbing in butter with your fingers until mixture is crumbly.
Divide filling among four 5 1/2-inch round baking dishes, and sprinkle with topping. Transfer to a baking sheet. Bake until bubbling and golden brown, 25 to 27 minutes. Let cool slightly. Drizzle with heavy cream if desired.
Read more at Marthastewart.com: Peach-and-Basil Crumbles Recipe - MarthaStewart.com
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Bee Season by Myla Goldberg
Summary
This is the story of the downfall of a family instigated by nine-year old Eliza (who had before always been an underachiever) winning her school and then district spelling bee. Her father Saul, a cantor and religious scholar, begins to pay more attention to his daughter by helping her to study for the national spelling bee. Saul had previously devoted the majority of his time to his son, Aaron with whom he had almost daily studied religion and played guitar. When Saul sees how Eliza transcends into a different state when spelling, he encourages her to explore shefa- a mystical state which is the influx of God knowledge. Eliza dedicates herself to achieving this mystical state which results in a twisted ending. Meanwhile, the rest of the family is unraveling with Aaron’s decision to join the Hare Krishna faith and the mother Miriam’s shocking secret life is finally revealed. This book is not just a coming of age story, it provides a deep look into the modern (albeit dysfunctional) family and the roles that education and religion play in the family.
Discussion
-This is a thought provoking novel on many levels - religion, mysticism, mental illness, family dynamics, teenage discovery, etc. We all enjoyed this book and the descriptions of the complexities of family life in this novel.
Menu
Picnic at the Garden of the Gods
Summary
This is the story of the downfall of a family instigated by nine-year old Eliza (who had before always been an underachiever) winning her school and then district spelling bee. Her father Saul, a cantor and religious scholar, begins to pay more attention to his daughter by helping her to study for the national spelling bee. Saul had previously devoted the majority of his time to his son, Aaron with whom he had almost daily studied religion and played guitar. When Saul sees how Eliza transcends into a different state when spelling, he encourages her to explore shefa- a mystical state which is the influx of God knowledge. Eliza dedicates herself to achieving this mystical state which results in a twisted ending. Meanwhile, the rest of the family is unraveling with Aaron’s decision to join the Hare Krishna faith and the mother Miriam’s shocking secret life is finally revealed. This book is not just a coming of age story, it provides a deep look into the modern (albeit dysfunctional) family and the roles that education and religion play in the family.
Discussion
-This is a thought provoking novel on many levels - religion, mysticism, mental illness, family dynamics, teenage discovery, etc. We all enjoyed this book and the descriptions of the complexities of family life in this novel.
Menu
Picnic at the Garden of the Gods
Monday, June 7, 2010
Chasing Harry Winston by Lauren Weisberger
Summary
This is a story about three women friends who have reached the age of thirty and make a pact with each other to achieve a desired change in their life. Emmy, whose boyfriend has just left her for his 23-year old trainer, vows to ditch her penchant for monogamous relationships and sleep with a man from every continent. Leigh appears to have a perfect life. She has a dream job in the publishing business, a beautiful apartment, and a handsome boyfriend who adores her, yet she is not happy. Adriana, who has inherited her supermodel Brazilian mother’s beauty, has also been schooled by her in all the wiles that women use to get their man, however, she is beginning to see that it may not be so easy to land a ‘trophy’ husband after she turns thirty. Lauren Weisberger is also the author of best seller The Devil Wears Prada.
Discussion
-This was a very light and easy read and most definitely fits into the chick lit genre. Set in New York, the book is entertaining although the characters are somewhat on the vapid side. There wasn’t much to discuss about this book, it was simply a fun read.
Menu
Brie with Primo Blackberry Serrano Preserves
Asparagus Salad
Baked Potato Wedges
Burgers with Burger Bar
Chocolate Birthday Cake
Summary
This is a story about three women friends who have reached the age of thirty and make a pact with each other to achieve a desired change in their life. Emmy, whose boyfriend has just left her for his 23-year old trainer, vows to ditch her penchant for monogamous relationships and sleep with a man from every continent. Leigh appears to have a perfect life. She has a dream job in the publishing business, a beautiful apartment, and a handsome boyfriend who adores her, yet she is not happy. Adriana, who has inherited her supermodel Brazilian mother’s beauty, has also been schooled by her in all the wiles that women use to get their man, however, she is beginning to see that it may not be so easy to land a ‘trophy’ husband after she turns thirty. Lauren Weisberger is also the author of best seller The Devil Wears Prada.
Discussion
-This was a very light and easy read and most definitely fits into the chick lit genre. Set in New York, the book is entertaining although the characters are somewhat on the vapid side. There wasn’t much to discuss about this book, it was simply a fun read.
Menu
Brie with Primo Blackberry Serrano Preserves
Asparagus Salad
Baked Potato Wedges
Burgers with Burger Bar
Chocolate Birthday Cake
Ingredients
Four large russet potatoes cut into wedges
Three tablespoons vegetable oil
One teaspoon salt (or to taste)
One teaspoon paprika (or to taste)
½ teaspoon garlic powder (or to taste)
Two tablespoons grated parmesan cheese (or to taste)
One teaspoon onion powder (or to taste)
Mix all seasonings in a one gallon freezer bag. Add olive oil and mix with seasonings. Add potato wedges to bag and thoroughly coat them with mixture. Bake at 425 degrees for 30 minutes or until potatoes are browned
Four large russet potatoes cut into wedges
Three tablespoons vegetable oil
One teaspoon salt (or to taste)
One teaspoon paprika (or to taste)
½ teaspoon garlic powder (or to taste)
Two tablespoons grated parmesan cheese (or to taste)
One teaspoon onion powder (or to taste)
Mix all seasonings in a one gallon freezer bag. Add olive oil and mix with seasonings. Add potato wedges to bag and thoroughly coat them with mixture. Bake at 425 degrees for 30 minutes or until potatoes are browned
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius by Dave Eggers
Summary
This book is based on a true story. The author (who is 22 at the time) begins by describing his parents’ deaths from different types of cancer. His parents die within months of each other. His father dies unexpectedly while his mother dies a slow and horrible death, which the author certainly doesn‘t candy coat, he goes as far as to describe the tub of blood and mucous his mother has to spit into. After the death of his parents, the author is given custody of his eight year old brother and he moves with him to San Francisco. He gets a job working on a magazine, spends as much time as he can with his little brother, and has an occasional romantic interlude. Throughout all this, Eggers continually questions his motives and we are privy to his internal dialogues (e.g. his guilt and paranoia about not being able to be the parent he should be). The book opens up with a humorous page on ’Rules and Suggestions for Enjoying this Book‘, followed by a lengthy but equally humorous preface which also includes a page on how much he was paid for writing this memoir. This book was a Pulitzer prize finalist.
Discussion
-The majority of our book club hated this book, so much so that only two of us finished it (mostly out of a sense of obligation). This was primarily due to the main character, the author. He was described as narcissistic, arrogant, self indulgent, self obsessed, angry, and an unlikable character whose circumstances did not change him for the better.
-The writing was original - it was as if you were reading directly from someone’s conscious, as if we were listening to Eggers’ most private thoughts - such as his desperate need to find humor in the most dire of circumstances to internal bursts of cursing at slow drivers (something we can all relate to).
-Eggers is self obsessed…he thinks he is cool because he knew people from the show, “The Real World.” (And who would find the need to use the word ‘anemone’ twice in one memoir.)
-An amusing section of the book was about Eggers’ faking child star Adam Rich’s death in order to promote his magazine.
-The MTV interview which lasted about 100 pages could easily be skipped, the author tells the reader to do so in the preface of the book. Eggers never takes himself seriously.
-This is a heartbreaking story with many reviewers claiming that it is also a work of genius (due to the originality of the ’voice’ the author employs).
Summary
This book is based on a true story. The author (who is 22 at the time) begins by describing his parents’ deaths from different types of cancer. His parents die within months of each other. His father dies unexpectedly while his mother dies a slow and horrible death, which the author certainly doesn‘t candy coat, he goes as far as to describe the tub of blood and mucous his mother has to spit into. After the death of his parents, the author is given custody of his eight year old brother and he moves with him to San Francisco. He gets a job working on a magazine, spends as much time as he can with his little brother, and has an occasional romantic interlude. Throughout all this, Eggers continually questions his motives and we are privy to his internal dialogues (e.g. his guilt and paranoia about not being able to be the parent he should be). The book opens up with a humorous page on ’Rules and Suggestions for Enjoying this Book‘, followed by a lengthy but equally humorous preface which also includes a page on how much he was paid for writing this memoir. This book was a Pulitzer prize finalist.
Discussion
-The majority of our book club hated this book, so much so that only two of us finished it (mostly out of a sense of obligation). This was primarily due to the main character, the author. He was described as narcissistic, arrogant, self indulgent, self obsessed, angry, and an unlikable character whose circumstances did not change him for the better.
-The writing was original - it was as if you were reading directly from someone’s conscious, as if we were listening to Eggers’ most private thoughts - such as his desperate need to find humor in the most dire of circumstances to internal bursts of cursing at slow drivers (something we can all relate to).
-Eggers is self obsessed…he thinks he is cool because he knew people from the show, “The Real World.” (And who would find the need to use the word ‘anemone’ twice in one memoir.)
-An amusing section of the book was about Eggers’ faking child star Adam Rich’s death in order to promote his magazine.
-The MTV interview which lasted about 100 pages could easily be skipped, the author tells the reader to do so in the preface of the book. Eggers never takes himself seriously.
-This is a heartbreaking story with many reviewers claiming that it is also a work of genius (due to the originality of the ’voice’ the author employs).
Ingredients
1 box Betty Crocker brownie mix
2 eggs
2 tablespoons flour
6 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/3 cup sugar
¾ teaspoon vanilla
5 tablespoons butter (softened)
Blend brownie mix as per directions on box. Pour into a lightly greased 9X9 pan. Beat all other ingredients together until smooth. Pour evenly over brownie batter. Use a butter knife to swirl the brownie batter and cream cheese together. Bake according to brownie package instructions, generally at 350 degrees for about half an hour or until toothpick comes out clean.
1 box Betty Crocker brownie mix
2 eggs
2 tablespoons flour
6 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/3 cup sugar
¾ teaspoon vanilla
5 tablespoons butter (softened)
Blend brownie mix as per directions on box. Pour into a lightly greased 9X9 pan. Beat all other ingredients together until smooth. Pour evenly over brownie batter. Use a butter knife to swirl the brownie batter and cream cheese together. Bake according to brownie package instructions, generally at 350 degrees for about half an hour or until toothpick comes out clean.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
The Gargoyle by Andrew Davidson
Summary
The Gargoyle is a story of redemption. The beginning of the book graphically details a horrific car accident and the subsequent treatment of the unnamed main character’s third degree burns. He is so disfigured and in so much pain that he spends his time imagining the various ways he can kill himself when he is released from the hospital. A woman comes into his life, Marianne Engel, a sculptor of gargoyles, who claims they were lovers in the middle ages and who suffers from schizophrenia. The book jumps back and forth in time as Marianne describes their history and includes four short love stories from different eras and cultures that complement the themes of the book. (These four love stories occur in Japan, England, Japan and Iceland.) A lot is packed into this book and is a cross between a love story and a horror story. The New York Times aptly calls it an “unhinged debut”.
Summary
The Gargoyle is a story of redemption. The beginning of the book graphically details a horrific car accident and the subsequent treatment of the unnamed main character’s third degree burns. He is so disfigured and in so much pain that he spends his time imagining the various ways he can kill himself when he is released from the hospital. A woman comes into his life, Marianne Engel, a sculptor of gargoyles, who claims they were lovers in the middle ages and who suffers from schizophrenia. The book jumps back and forth in time as Marianne describes their history and includes four short love stories from different eras and cultures that complement the themes of the book. (These four love stories occur in Japan, England, Japan and Iceland.) A lot is packed into this book and is a cross between a love story and a horror story. The New York Times aptly calls it an “unhinged debut”.
Discussion
-All but one of us really liked this book. This tends to be one of those books: you either love it or you hate it.
-There was a lot to discuss from this book. The author goes into graphic description of events that occurred during the narrators’ car accident and what goes on in the burn unit of a hospital - compelling, but not for the squeamish. This is a great read for book clubs as there are so many topics to discuss such as religion, mental health, love, etc.
-We enjoyed the narrator’s occasional use of dark humor, an example being his feelings that there existed a b*tch snake in his spine and the various ways he dealt with internal conflict of which there was quite a lot stemming from his prior life of pornography and reliance on drugs, and his current and continuing struggle with controlling his doses of morphine.
-Engel means angel in German which of course would mean that Marianne is the main character’s angel - she did help to nurse him back to health on more than one occasion.
-Even though this was a love story, there did not seem to be a lot of chemistry between Marianne and the main character. The ending was also a bit odd, one of the characters just decides to swim away….forever.
-The narrator related his own situation to Dante’s inferno, he alluded to the different types of hell that can be felt, both physical and in one’s own mind.
-All but one of us really liked this book. This tends to be one of those books: you either love it or you hate it.
-There was a lot to discuss from this book. The author goes into graphic description of events that occurred during the narrators’ car accident and what goes on in the burn unit of a hospital - compelling, but not for the squeamish. This is a great read for book clubs as there are so many topics to discuss such as religion, mental health, love, etc.
-We enjoyed the narrator’s occasional use of dark humor, an example being his feelings that there existed a b*tch snake in his spine and the various ways he dealt with internal conflict of which there was quite a lot stemming from his prior life of pornography and reliance on drugs, and his current and continuing struggle with controlling his doses of morphine.
-Engel means angel in German which of course would mean that Marianne is the main character’s angel - she did help to nurse him back to health on more than one occasion.
-Even though this was a love story, there did not seem to be a lot of chemistry between Marianne and the main character. The ending was also a bit odd, one of the characters just decides to swim away….forever.
-The narrator related his own situation to Dante’s inferno, he alluded to the different types of hell that can be felt, both physical and in one’s own mind.
Ingredients
-1 lemon
-1 lime
-1 orange
-1 1/2 cups rum
-1/2 cup white sugar
-1 (750 milliliter) bottle dry red wine
-1 cup orange juice
Directions
Have the fruit, rum, wine, and orange juice well chilled. Slice the lemon, lime and orange into thin rounds and place in a large glass pitcher. Pour in the rum and sugar. Chill in refrigerator for 2 hours to develop the flavors. When ready to serve, crush the fruit lightly with a wooden spoon and stir in the wine and orange juice. Adjust sweetness to taste.
-1 lemon
-1 lime
-1 orange
-1 1/2 cups rum
-1/2 cup white sugar
-1 (750 milliliter) bottle dry red wine
-1 cup orange juice
Directions
Have the fruit, rum, wine, and orange juice well chilled. Slice the lemon, lime and orange into thin rounds and place in a large glass pitcher. Pour in the rum and sugar. Chill in refrigerator for 2 hours to develop the flavors. When ready to serve, crush the fruit lightly with a wooden spoon and stir in the wine and orange juice. Adjust sweetness to taste.
Ingredients
-1 cup chopped dried figs
-1/2 cup water
-1 tablespoon olive oil
-2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
-1 teaspoon dried rosemary
-1 teaspoon dried thyme
-1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
-2/3 cup chopped kalamata olives
-2 cloves garlic, minced
-salt and pepper to taste
-1/3 cup chopped toasted walnuts
-1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese
Directions
Combine figs and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, and cook until tender, and liquid has reduced. Remove from heat, and stir in the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, rosemary, thyme, and cayenne. Add olives and garlic, and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover, and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to blend.
Unwrap cream cheese block, and place on a serving platter. Spoon tapenade over cheese, and sprinkle with walnuts. Serve with slices of French bread or crackers.
-1 cup chopped dried figs
-1/2 cup water
-1 tablespoon olive oil
-2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
-1 teaspoon dried rosemary
-1 teaspoon dried thyme
-1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
-2/3 cup chopped kalamata olives
-2 cloves garlic, minced
-salt and pepper to taste
-1/3 cup chopped toasted walnuts
-1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese
Directions
Combine figs and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, and cook until tender, and liquid has reduced. Remove from heat, and stir in the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, rosemary, thyme, and cayenne. Add olives and garlic, and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover, and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to blend.
Unwrap cream cheese block, and place on a serving platter. Spoon tapenade over cheese, and sprinkle with walnuts. Serve with slices of French bread or crackers.
Ingredients
10 pork spareribs
1/2 cup soy sauce
10 cloves garlic, crushed
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
1 tablespoon dried oregano
2 bay leaves
1 lime, juiced
10 sprigs fresh parsley
ground black pepper to taste
2 limes, cut into wedges
Directions
Place the spareribs into a large pot, and fill with just enough water to cover. Add the soy sauce, garlic, rosemary, oregano, bay leaves, lime juice and 3/4 of the parsley. Bring to a boil, then simmer uncovered over medium heat until the water has completely evaporated, about 25 minutes. When all of the water is gone, remove the bay leaves, and allow meat to brown, turning occasionally. Use a spatula to scrape up browned bits and softened garlic from the bottom of the pot, and toss them with the pork. The garlic will dissolve onto the meat. Remove the meat, and drain on paper towels. Season with black pepper and garnish with lime wedges and remaining parsley.
10 pork spareribs
1/2 cup soy sauce
10 cloves garlic, crushed
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
1 tablespoon dried oregano
2 bay leaves
1 lime, juiced
10 sprigs fresh parsley
ground black pepper to taste
2 limes, cut into wedges
Directions
Place the spareribs into a large pot, and fill with just enough water to cover. Add the soy sauce, garlic, rosemary, oregano, bay leaves, lime juice and 3/4 of the parsley. Bring to a boil, then simmer uncovered over medium heat until the water has completely evaporated, about 25 minutes. When all of the water is gone, remove the bay leaves, and allow meat to brown, turning occasionally. Use a spatula to scrape up browned bits and softened garlic from the bottom of the pot, and toss them with the pork. The garlic will dissolve onto the meat. Remove the meat, and drain on paper towels. Season with black pepper and garnish with lime wedges and remaining parsley.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
½ cup bread crumbs
1 tablespoons fresh mint
salt/pepper
1/2 cup water
1 can tomatoes -- chopped
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 cup butter
Directions
Mix beef, onions, crumbs, mint, salt and pepper; add water, small amount at a time, just until mixture holds together. Form into bite-sized balls; arrange balls in single layer in shallow oven dish. Pour tomatoes over meatballs; sprinkle with cinnamon.
Dot with butter.
Bake in 400F oven for 1 hour. Serve with toothpicks
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
½ cup bread crumbs
1 tablespoons fresh mint
salt/pepper
1/2 cup water
1 can tomatoes -- chopped
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 cup butter
Directions
Mix beef, onions, crumbs, mint, salt and pepper; add water, small amount at a time, just until mixture holds together. Form into bite-sized balls; arrange balls in single layer in shallow oven dish. Pour tomatoes over meatballs; sprinkle with cinnamon.
Dot with butter.
Bake in 400F oven for 1 hour. Serve with toothpicks
Prep time 30 minutes, bake 45 minutes, cool 15 minutes, chill 2 hours
Ingredients
Graham cracker crust
-1 ½ cups finely crushed graham crackers (about 20 squares)
-1/3 cup butter, melted
-3 tablespoons sugar
Filling
-3 large eggs
-1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
-1 teaspoon grated lime or lemon peel
-½ cup Key Lime juice or regular lime juice
-1 ½ cups sweetened whipped cream (see recipe below)
Crust
Heat oven to 350 degrees.
Mix all ingredients. Press mixture firmly against bottom and side of plate.
Bake 10 minutes or until lightly browned, cool while preparing pie filling.
Pie Filling
Beat eggs, milk, lime peel, and lime juice in medium bowl with electric mixer on medium speed for about 1 minute or until well blended. Pour into prepared pie crust.
Bake 30-35 minutes at 350 degrees or until center is set. Cool on wire rack 15 minutes. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours but no longer than three days. Spread with sweetened whipped cream. Stored covered in refrigerator.
Sweetened Whipped Cream
Beat ¾ cup heavy whipping cream and 2 tablespoons sugar in chilled small bowl with electric mixer on high speed until soft peaks form.
Ingredients
Graham cracker crust
-1 ½ cups finely crushed graham crackers (about 20 squares)
-1/3 cup butter, melted
-3 tablespoons sugar
Filling
-3 large eggs
-1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
-1 teaspoon grated lime or lemon peel
-½ cup Key Lime juice or regular lime juice
-1 ½ cups sweetened whipped cream (see recipe below)
Crust
Heat oven to 350 degrees.
Mix all ingredients. Press mixture firmly against bottom and side of plate.
Bake 10 minutes or until lightly browned, cool while preparing pie filling.
Pie Filling
Beat eggs, milk, lime peel, and lime juice in medium bowl with electric mixer on medium speed for about 1 minute or until well blended. Pour into prepared pie crust.
Bake 30-35 minutes at 350 degrees or until center is set. Cool on wire rack 15 minutes. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours but no longer than three days. Spread with sweetened whipped cream. Stored covered in refrigerator.
Sweetened Whipped Cream
Beat ¾ cup heavy whipping cream and 2 tablespoons sugar in chilled small bowl with electric mixer on high speed until soft peaks form.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
January 2010 Host: Jennie
Mansfield Park by Jane Austen
Summary
This is the story of Fanny Price, as a young child, Fanny is removed from her own impoverished home to live with a more well to do aunt. Fanny is a quiet and passive child and is at first, very homesick. She is living with her aunt and uncle and four cousins, Tom, Maria, and Julia simply tolerate her while Edmund, the youngest cousin, is kind to her and they become very close. Fanny’s second aunt, Mrs. Norris, is critical of Fanny and takes every opportunity to make Fanny aware of her lesser social standing. Fanny eventually grows into a woman with a very clear sense of what is right and wrong and one instance of this is her spurning a rich, but unwelcome suitor who in the past had outrageously flirted with her cousins. As in other Austen novels, this work explores the interrelationships of love, marriage, money, and social stature in nineteenth century England.
Discussion
-This is probably Jane Austen’s least favorite works, only two of us actually finished the novel. This is in part due to the nature of the main character Fanny, she is very passive and different from Austen’s other stronger female characters in her other novels. An introverted protagonist is not Austen’s usual fare. The reading was at times difficult and confusing. The first part of the book was slow reading but fortunately, the last half picked up.
- There is no moral stigma attached to the fact that one of the main characters, Sir Thomas, is a slave trader.
-The two of us that finished the book enjoyed it, especially after the first half. Although it is more serious then her other novels, I would recommend this book as anything by Jane Austen is worth reading and I know that this is a book that I will always remember. The character development was elaborate and very well done.
-There were some lines in the book where you just had to stop and read it again, e.g., one of Fanny’s cousins state: “my selfishness must be forgiven as there is no hope for a cure …”
Menu
Assorted Appetizers
Mushroom Tart
Antipasto Pasta Salad
Swiss Vegetable Medley
Potato Leek Stew
Peanut Butter Tart
Mansfield Park by Jane Austen
Summary
This is the story of Fanny Price, as a young child, Fanny is removed from her own impoverished home to live with a more well to do aunt. Fanny is a quiet and passive child and is at first, very homesick. She is living with her aunt and uncle and four cousins, Tom, Maria, and Julia simply tolerate her while Edmund, the youngest cousin, is kind to her and they become very close. Fanny’s second aunt, Mrs. Norris, is critical of Fanny and takes every opportunity to make Fanny aware of her lesser social standing. Fanny eventually grows into a woman with a very clear sense of what is right and wrong and one instance of this is her spurning a rich, but unwelcome suitor who in the past had outrageously flirted with her cousins. As in other Austen novels, this work explores the interrelationships of love, marriage, money, and social stature in nineteenth century England.
Discussion
-This is probably Jane Austen’s least favorite works, only two of us actually finished the novel. This is in part due to the nature of the main character Fanny, she is very passive and different from Austen’s other stronger female characters in her other novels. An introverted protagonist is not Austen’s usual fare. The reading was at times difficult and confusing. The first part of the book was slow reading but fortunately, the last half picked up.
- There is no moral stigma attached to the fact that one of the main characters, Sir Thomas, is a slave trader.
-The two of us that finished the book enjoyed it, especially after the first half. Although it is more serious then her other novels, I would recommend this book as anything by Jane Austen is worth reading and I know that this is a book that I will always remember. The character development was elaborate and very well done.
-There were some lines in the book where you just had to stop and read it again, e.g., one of Fanny’s cousins state: “my selfishness must be forgiven as there is no hope for a cure …”
Menu
Assorted Appetizers
Mushroom Tart
Antipasto Pasta Salad
Swiss Vegetable Medley
Potato Leek Stew
Peanut Butter Tart
Ingredients
Serves 4
Flour, for rolling out puff pastry
1 (from a 17.3-ounce package) sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed according to package instructions
1 medium onion, halved and thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Coarse salt and ground pepper
2 packages (10 ounces each) white mushrooms, trimmed and thinly sliced
1 packages (10 ounces) fresh baby spinach
2 ounces soft goat cheese, crumbled
Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. On a floured surface, roll the puff pastry out to a 16-by-10 inch rectangle. Trim uneven edges. Place the pastry on a baking sheet. With a sharp knife, lightly score dough to form a 1-inch border. Using a fork, prick dough inside the border every 1/2 inch. Bake until golden, rotating pan once, about 15 minutes or until tender.
Meanwhile, in a small saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, toss onion with 1 tablespoon oil. Season with salt. Cover and cook over medium heat until onion begins to brown, about 5 minutes. Stir. Continue cooking with cover on for 15 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes. Set aside.
In a large saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, heat remaining oil. Add mushrooms; cover and cook until tender and all liquid has evaporated, about 10 minutes. Fold in spinach; season with salt and pepper. Cover and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes more. Drain any liquid.
Top dough with mushroom-spinach mixture. Scatter onion and goat cheese on top. Bake until cheese is lightly browned, about 15 minutes.
Antipasto Pasta Salad
Ingredients
-1 pound seashell, fusili or rotini pasta
-½ pound Geneo salami, chopped
-½ pound Asiago cheese, diced
-8 ounces provolone, feta, or mozzarella cheese, chopped
-1 (6 ounce) can black olives, drained and chopped
-1 red bell pepper diced
-1 green bell pepper, diced
-3 tomatoes, chopped or equivalent in halved grape tomatoes
-1 (.7 ounce) package dry Italian style salad dressing mix
-1 small jar artichokes, chopped, or 1 can drained garbanzo beans
-2 chopped green onions
-1 cup your favorite balsamic vinaigrette dressing
OR you can make your own dressing:
¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese
Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, and cool under cold water.
In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except balsamic vinaigrette dressing. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour.
Within one hour before serving, pour dressing over the salad and mix well.
Ingredients
-1 pound seashell, fusili or rotini pasta
-½ pound Geneo salami, chopped
-½ pound Asiago cheese, diced
-8 ounces provolone, feta, or mozzarella cheese, chopped
-1 (6 ounce) can black olives, drained and chopped
-1 red bell pepper diced
-1 green bell pepper, diced
-3 tomatoes, chopped or equivalent in halved grape tomatoes
-1 (.7 ounce) package dry Italian style salad dressing mix
-1 small jar artichokes, chopped, or 1 can drained garbanzo beans
-2 chopped green onions
-1 cup your favorite balsamic vinaigrette dressing
OR you can make your own dressing:
¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese
Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, and cool under cold water.
In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except balsamic vinaigrette dressing. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour.
Within one hour before serving, pour dressing over the salad and mix well.
Swiss Vegetable Medley
Ingredients
-1 bag (16 oz.) frozen broccoli, carrots and cauliflower combination,
thawed and drained
-1 can (10 ¾ oz.) condensed cream of mushroom soup
-1 cup shredded swiss cheese
-1/3 cup sour cream
-¼ teaspoon pepper
-¼ jar pimento drained, (optional)
-1 can (28 oz.) Durkee French Fried Onions
Combine vegetables, soup, ½ cup shredded swiss cheese, sour cream, pepper, pimento, ½ can Durkee French Fried Onions.
Pour into one quart casserole.
Bake covered, 350 degrees for thirty minutes.
Top with remaining French fried onions and cheese and bake for five minutes longer.
Ingredients
-1 bag (16 oz.) frozen broccoli, carrots and cauliflower combination,
thawed and drained
-1 can (10 ¾ oz.) condensed cream of mushroom soup
-1 cup shredded swiss cheese
-1/3 cup sour cream
-¼ teaspoon pepper
-¼ jar pimento drained, (optional)
-1 can (28 oz.) Durkee French Fried Onions
Combine vegetables, soup, ½ cup shredded swiss cheese, sour cream, pepper, pimento, ½ can Durkee French Fried Onions.
Pour into one quart casserole.
Bake covered, 350 degrees for thirty minutes.
Top with remaining French fried onions and cheese and bake for five minutes longer.
Ingredients
3 cups water
1 1.8 ounce envelope white sauce mix (equal to 1/2 cup powder mix)
6 medium red or new potatoes sliced, or cubed
3 medium leeks, sliced
1 1/2 to 2 cups finely chopped Canadian style bacon or ham
1 12 ounce can evaporated milk
1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1 8 ounce carton dairy sour cream
Chives or green onions, optonal
In 4 to 6 quart crock pot, gradually stir in water to white sauce mix until mixture is smooth. Stir in
potatoes, leeks, meat, evaporated milk, dill weed and parsley.
Cover and cook on low 7-9 hours or on high 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 hours.
Turn to high heat setting. In medium bowl, stir sour cream into 2 cups hot soup. Return mixture to crockpot. Cover and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
Ladle into bowls. Add chives or green onions as desired.
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