A Book Deal For You
Wednesday, 27 August 2014
I discovered the English writer, Julian Barnes, in 1984 with the publication that year of Flaubert's Parrot, and I haven't stopped reading him since.
In the past decade, Barnes seems to have become almost as consumed with growing old, old age in general and contemplation of death as I am and he has been writing about them in powerful ways so beyond my attempts that I may as well be living on a lesser planet. I recommend them all:
The Lemon Table - short stories about growing old (2004)
Nothing to be Frightened Of - essays about his ancestors, real and imagined, and their contemplation of death (2008)
The Sense of an Ending - novel of a middle-aged man forced to confront his past (2011 – Man Booker Prize)
Pulse - another brilliant short-story collection some of which touch on age and grief (2011)
Last week, I re-read Barnes' 2013 memoir of the grief he has lived following the death of wife of 30 years, literary agent Pat Kavanaugh. You wouldn't think the first two sections of Levels of Life – on 19th century ballooning and on Sarah Bernhardt – would have anything to do with that. You would be wrong.
The book is unforgettable - stunning achievement, beautiful, intense, heartbreaking, eloquent, profound and shattering.
I am telling you this today because as I returned the paperback to the shelf, I discovered a hardback edition. Huh? Blame it on old age memory, I guess. Apparently I bought the soft cover without checking my unread books pile.
So one of you wins today. As we have done in the past, let me know if you are interested in owning Julian Barnes' Levels of Life.
You can do that in the comments below by typing, Yes, I want the book. Or, Count me in. Or, Me, me, me. Or however else you want to indicate your interest.
The winner will be chosen in a random drawing and I'll mail off the book to you. The deadline for comments is 12:01AM Pacific Daylight Time on Friday 29 August I'll announce the winner in this space on Monday 1 September.
At The Elder Storytelling Place today, Clifford Rothband: You Can't Stop a Laugh
I would like the book Please.....
Posted by: Meredith Brooks | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 06:05 AM
Count me in.
The reviews at Amazon are good. It got a 4 1/2 stars average for 113 reviews.
Posted by: Jean | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 06:11 AM
I would love to add this to my read soon list.
Posted by: Pilgrim | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 07:12 AM
Moi, moi, moi
Posted by: Marcie A Rosenzweig | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 07:31 AM
I would love to own this book! (And I'm going to stop at the library to get the other ones you mentioned.)
Posted by: Melanie Jongsma | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 07:36 AM
Yes, please, I would like the book.
Posted by: Lyn Burnstine | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 07:39 AM
Me,me,me
I own many of his books.
Posted by: Jane Jeffords | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 07:44 AM
I would love the book!
Posted by: Ingrid Sheets | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 07:49 AM
What a lovely 83rd Birthday gift the book will be for me!
AUGUST 31, 2014... Many thanks for all you are and all you do Ronni
Posted by: Elizabeth | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 07:54 AM
I would like it, me, me!
Posted by: Celia | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 08:01 AM
Thanks for the heads-up on Barnes! I went online to see if I could borrow the titles for my kindle, sadly most are audio-books only.
I can only read large print, so save the hard copy for someone that would love the gift, but just wanted to see if anyone else had comments about hard copy vs online borrow (and the ability to enlarge the font) vs audiobooks
Posted by: momcat | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 08:04 AM
I'd love to have it to share with the KSU Gerontology Dep't.
Posted by: Cam | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 08:04 AM
Yes, please!
Posted by: DJan | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 08:10 AM
Sounds like a most interesting writer so please count me in.
Posted by: Johna Ferguson | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 08:12 AM
no because I listen mainly to books on tape,,,,relic...btw End of your Life book club good book....
Posted by: Sheila Halet | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 08:12 AM
I would love the book. I'm always open to read a new author.
Your daily blog has meant so mch to me since I retired. Thanks.
326 W Seminary Ave
Wheaton, IL 60187-5002
Posted by: Susan Dolan-Laughlin | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 08:16 AM
I win! I win! Pick me!
But if someone else wins i will reserve at the library. I have read most of his other work. Thanks!
Posted by: Stephanie | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 08:27 AM
Yes, I would love to read the book and, if I win you don't even have to mail it. A friend who lives in lake Oswego could pick it up and bring it down the next time he comes to Eugene.
Posted by: David Newman | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 08:30 AM
Yes, please. Me too.
Posted by: Mage Bailey | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 08:32 AM
Feed my obsession. Yes!
Posted by: Monica Devine | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 08:34 AM
Yes, please!
Posted by: Francie Link | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 08:34 AM
count me in
Posted by: stan | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 08:39 AM
I facilitate a legacy and memoir writing group at a retirement community. Thanks for writing about aging issues. Having written my own memoir about grief after the death of my husband and youngest son, It's an Ill Wind, Indeed, this latest sounds like something I should add to our library.
Posted by: Joan Callaway | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 08:43 AM
I've never read Barnes before and would love to have the book. Count me in!
Posted by: Nancy Wick | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 08:43 AM
Add my name as I'm interested and thank you!
Posted by: Phyllis | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 08:46 AM
Me too, please!
Posted by: Diane | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 09:15 AM
Re: mom cats question concerning on line books vs audio, I love the on line books because I can adjust the font to my needs. Also because of my hands/fingers I do not have the problem of holding the weight of the book or page turning, plus the books do not stack up leaving me more space.
As for the audio, I prefer hearing the voice in my head rather than that of someone else. Hope this helps.
Posted by: Carole | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 09:18 AM
Yes, please. Thanks for all you do to keep your blog on the outstanding end of the blog spectrum.
Posted by: Norma Hall | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 09:20 AM
Yes. I'm interested in being included in the drawing for the book.
And don't feel bad. I've done that exact same thing before. In fact, one book I once bought three times. I kick myself every time.
Posted by: Jim Smith | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 09:21 AM
Just dragging myself out of a depressed, lethargic state as I must do every once in a while. Your timing (new ways of thinking) is perfect !! Whoopee, I'm off to get myself a life, yet again.
Posted by: Pat | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 09:29 AM
How I hope my name is drawn! I would love to win Julian Barnes' memoir! Also I'm going to check him out at the library. Flaubert's Parrot is an enticing book title.
I look forward every day to your blog.
Posted by: Mary | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 09:37 AM
Yes, I'd love the book! I have also done this-several times and I just pass the extra copy on to an interested person!
Posted by: Linda Smith | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 09:43 AM
Interested in the book, Ronni.
Posted by: Priscilla Wright | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 09:45 AM
I'd love Levels of Life.. I teach Conscious Aging and read everything I can find on the topic..
Thanks for this offer.
Toni
Posted by: Toni | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 09:45 AM
Always looking for a good read!
Posted by: Gaga Cheri | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 09:51 AM
Would love to have the book.
Thanks for such a nice offer
Posted by: Ginny | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 09:57 AM
So generous.
I'd LOVE to read this book. Please pick me. Thanks. LORI HILL
Posted by: Lori | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 10:07 AM
Dear Ronnie, for the book please count me in too. I am a regular reader of your blog from Turkey and I use many of your posts (translating them into Turkish and referring to you) in my blog which is 'www.yaslanmasanati.com' meaning 'art of aging'. Your blog is a good source for me, I learn a lot from it so I am glad that you do it. Thank you!
Posted by: Engin Unay | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 10:10 AM
With so many wanting the book I am a bit reluctant to diminish the odds for others, but I would like to add my name to the list.
Posted by: Darlene | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 10:32 AM
Sure, I'd love to own the Barnes book! Thanks for offering this!
Posted by: Kate Gilpin | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 10:32 AM
I love a good cry- count me in, please.
Posted by: Kathy Zachary | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 10:49 AM
I would like to read this book.
Posted by: Jo | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 10:52 AM
Interested in reading that one.....count me in!
Posted by: Helen | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 10:54 AM
Wow.....
Please add my name to this very long list..
Thanks
Posted by: clairejean | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 11:00 AM
I am hoping you pick me to get the book!!
Posted by: Shari Henke | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 11:15 AM
Pick me, pick me!!
Posted by: Nana Royer | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 11:20 AM
It would be wonderful to have a book that once belonged to you, however I would like to improve the odds for the others who would also like to have the book. I understand this book is partly a memoir. Memoirs are my favorites. I have been working on mine for over a year. I will be ordering "Levels of Life" today. Thank you for the information!
Posted by: Maureen Browning | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 11:23 AM
Here I am over here in the corner. I'm raising my hand. Yes.
Posted by: Wally Blue | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 11:47 AM
Ronni, send it to your Montreal fan!
Posted by: doctafill | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 12:13 PM
Hi,
I would love to get the book.
Rita
Posted by: Rita | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 12:17 PM
Let it be me!
Posted by: JJB | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 12:36 PM
Oh my goodness....just the thing I need to transition/shift my focus from moving/unpacking/dodging the heat (I am now in Florida) to the beautiful prose of Julian Barnes. Thank you for this wonderful offer.
Jan
Posted by: Jan Cooper | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 12:38 PM
Count me in!
Posted by: SZQ | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 12:52 PM
I would dearly love it! I'm a huge fan of his.
Posted by: Judy | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 01:11 PM
I would love to read this book, Ronni - Thanks for the opportunity....
Posted by: Diane | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 01:32 PM
I've read all of Barnes, but plan to reread a few. (It's the memory thing!) I have most of the books so I'll just wish the rest of you the pleasure that awaits
Posted by: [email protected] | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 01:52 PM
It would be thrilling to get a book from you. I've been reading your blog for awhile now, very interesting. Thanks for the suggestions for Julian Barnes books!
Posted by: Marg hancock | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 02:17 PM
I just reread The Sense of an Ending. I'm looking forward to more of Julian Barnes. (me, me, me!!!!)
thanks for your blog
Posted by: lancbt | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 02:18 PM
Count me in! Sounds like a wonderful opportunity to read a wonderful book!
Posted by: Karen Zaun Kennedy | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 02:47 PM
Yes, I want the book. Include me in the raffle please.
Posted by: Cindy | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 02:53 PM
count me in, please.
Posted by: John | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 02:59 PM
Yes, please. . .
Posted by: Jacqueline | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 03:21 PM
and me.
Posted by: Charlotte Dahl | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 04:08 PM
Pick me - pick me- pick me!!!
Posted by: Millie Garfield | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 04:51 PM
Hi random picker--choose me for this award!
Posted by: Jane | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 05:44 PM
Please add me to the drawing for the book and thank you for your wonderful blog. I look forward to reading it every day!
Posted by: Camla | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 05:52 PM
Would never read this memoir otherwise. Choose moi.
Posted by: susan rogers | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 05:59 PM
I've been longing for a recommendation for a well-written book, from someone who is not a professional reviewer! Would love to read Levels of Life, reviewed by Ronni. Count me in, please.
Posted by: Catherine | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 05:59 PM
Yes, count me in.
Otherwise, I will try the library.
Posted by: Mary Schaefer | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 06:35 PM
Enna, my faithful four legged companion, suggests she and I share the stories. Anything with animals she gets and I get the rest. Right, Enna? Woof!
Posted by: Patricia Lauth | Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 07:06 PM
Would absolutely love to have the book. Thank you for sharing.
Posted by: Julia Heggen | Thursday, 28 August 2014 at 03:51 AM
This is a topic on which I read a lot too. Would love to have the book. Whether I win it or not, you have given me the name of another author to explore. Thank you for that and for your thoughtful, inspiring, and often funny, posts.
Posted by: Rita Moore | Thursday, 28 August 2014 at 06:22 AM
I'm in!
a/b
Posted by: Ashleigh Burroughs | Thursday, 28 August 2014 at 11:22 AM
I'll try for a free copy, and if I don't win, I'll get my own copy. I read A Sense of an Ending last year.
Posted by: Jim Harris | Thursday, 28 August 2014 at 12:22 PM
Yes, I'd like to read the book.
Posted by: Peggy Hallman | Thursday, 28 August 2014 at 01:18 PM
I love your blog and know I would love the Barnes book.
Thx for all of your good words.
Posted by: sarah mac donald | Thursday, 28 August 2014 at 02:01 PM
Please enter me in the drawing. Thank you.
Posted by: Cathy Feiler | Thursday, 28 August 2014 at 03:43 PM
Yes, I would appreciate the book.
ME, ME, ME!
Thank you for the chance Ronni!
Posted by: Larry Hesketh | Thursday, 28 August 2014 at 03:59 PM
And me too! Thanks in advance!
Posted by: Jane | Thursday, 28 August 2014 at 08:10 PM
yessiree, i would like to read this book...thank you for informng us of it!
Posted by: Jo Stahl | Thursday, 28 August 2014 at 08:24 PM
i'd love to win, so include me in.
Posted by: elaine shiber | Friday, 29 August 2014 at 12:30 PM