Introduce Yourself

[Jessica]

Reply to this message to introduce yourself to the group. Let us know which of Joyce Carol Oates' other novels you have read, and what draws you to The Gravedigger's Daughter.

And if you've read The Gravedigger's Daughter before, be careful not to post any plot spoilers!

[va-BBoomer]

I just discovered this, and I would like to join in.  Looks like I have some catching up to do.

I work in Manhattan and live in Westchester County in a communal household.  I love to read, but wish I had more time.  But I've read about this book, and have been curious about it.

Anyone else out there joining me?

[Fozzie]

Hi!  My name is Laura and I live on the south coast of Maine.  You can read more about me in my profile.

This is the first book I have read by Joyce Carol Oates, though I own four other books of hers.  I have nominated her book The Falls on the Literature by Women board several times, without success yet.  I was thrilled to see this group announced so that I could finally read one of her books and not just have them waiting in the wings. 

I am just over 100 pages in and find the book very mysterious.  I want to find out what makes Rebecca who she is.  I am looking forward to hearing everyone's thoughts.

[kiakar]

Hello all, I have read a few Joyce Carol Oates books and have a few on my shelf I haven't read.  I do have a hard time staying on tab with her. I liked the Mulvanys and it was a great book. But it seems , maybe I am  a ADD person or something. I can't stay focus on her books.I also have read alot of short stories and have enjoyed them. I have read Blonde and liked it.  She is a brilliant writer and I am glad I have read some of her books. I am looking forward to enjoying this even if I have to concetrate more.

[Stephanie]

There is no catching up to do - we're discussing through the month of May, so we've just started. Feel free to jump in and discuss anytime. There is no live chat, so you're welcome to come and go as you please.

[Alesha]

Hi, I'm new to this but i'm excited about this book! i've never read any of oates' books, but this one sounds very interesting. i'm excited to join this group!

[Stephanie]

Alesha,

Welcome- great to have you join us. How far along are you in the book? One of the neat things about reading during a month-long group like this is that you can post your impressions as you go, and others who are where you are, or further along can comment. If any of you would like to set up your own threads to do just that, please do, I think this novel would lend itself to that sort of discussion very well.

[heidi_ann]

Hi all,

I'm also new to this and excited to try it out. This is the first Oates' book for me too- in fact I just bought it recently and haven't been able to start it yet- but it looks very interesting!

[LindaMac]

Hi!  I'm new to the group.  I live in New York.  Love reading.   Like reading all types of books.  First Oates book, but won't be my last.  In The Gravedigger's Daughter, I like Oates different styles of writing.(her paragraphs and chapters) I find that an interesting approach in her writing style. 

 I'm sorry about my last comment on the book, might of given some information away, didn't know. I thought everyone was finished with the book.   Looking forward to reading everyone's comments about books.  You feel connected.  Linda

[LindaMac]

When do we know about the next book selection?  When are the discussions?

[Stephanie]

Welcome Linda and Heidi,

The discussions are ongoing, for a month. Just post your messages when you have time. The next selections will be posted in advance, look for them on the main page.

We do try to keep from posting spoilers, so if you're unsure, it's best to just post Spoiler Warning in the header.

[LindaMac]

Hi everyone,   thanks for the welcome. Looking forward to reading everyone's comments.  Once again I apologize for my last question which was an "ending spoiler" Didn't know everyone didn't read the book, I thought the discussions and comments were on books already read.  Linda

[Stephanie]

Linda,

No problem, it was an easy fix.  Some readers join the book groups when they're just beginning or partly through the novel, because it's fun to read and discuss as you go.  Others like to have the novel completed before the group begins, have some time to collect thoughts, etc.  At any rate, it's a completely personal decision, and one each reader makes for him/herself.

[annie1221]

Hi Everyone!

My name is Rebecca. I haven't read any of Joyce Carol Oates' work but I am very intrigued to do so now after just discovering this. Looks to be very interesting. I am looking foward to reading more in this discussion.