Chapters 1 to 5

Well, what did you think?

When I first read this book, I was so impatient to get past the first few chapters because I knew they were laying foundation for something really good.  I wanted to get to the good stuff.  And trust me, you're gonna get it in this next section!  We're increasing to 10 chapters per week!!  Thanks to everyone who voted.  Please feel free to check the blog throughout the week...I try to add new and interactive things every few days, to make it more fun.

In this first section, we learn that Earth, and almost all of its inhabitants, are occupied by a race of beings that refer to themselves as Souls.  These souls hop from planet to planet inserting themselves into the original planet's inhabitants, to experience life in a new way.  They fix any aspect of the planet they deem not suitable to their way of life, and then occupy it indefinitely.

Our lead character in this story is actually two people, Wanderer, the Soul implanted into Melanie, the host body.  We learn pretty early that Mel is a particularly strong Host, but Wanderer is exceptional herself, as she has more experience in more host bodies than most of her species.  We also learn that the other worlds Souls have inhabited don't include Hosts with the sense of smell or strong emotions.  Wanderer experiences hatred, which she's never felt before.  How would that affect the opposite emotion?

In this first section we see Wanderer and Mel just beginning to struggle against each other...I wonder what interesting things will come of that. ;)  We also see Wanderer trying to assimilate into her new life teaching while the irritating Seeker lays out her intentions of never stopping till she finds any other humans Mel was running with (Jamie & Jared).  Life in these host bodies is very different specifically for those who fill the calling of Seeker.  With the intense emotions that come with these bodies, Seekers have evolved into a more aggressive and ruthless sub group.  There's never been a division between Souls like the potential for it that exists on Earth.  All Souls have always been equal...before Earth.

We left off with Wanderer talking to her "Shrink" or Comforter about the unexpected complications she's having with the host body.

Now onto chapters 6-15.  Ahhhh, I can't wait for you to meet one particular character.  Edward Cullen, eat your heart out!!

Week One

The group has 3 days left to complete the prologue and first 5 chapters.  Everyone please use this blog to post your comments rather than emailing them.  I love you guys, but I don't love the 20+ emails in my inbox right now that have "The Host" in the subject line.  ;)

For those of you that have commented you are going to read at your own speed, or with others, that's great!  But this club probably isn't for you.  The point of a book club is to read and discuss.  Your aim is to dig deep into a book, understand it and appreciate it.  If you're just wanting to quickly read a good book, then go for it.  But this blog was made for those that want to/and can read together.  And no one should feel pressured to participate.  If you don't make this book, then catch us on the next one.  Don't freak out or go all weirdo about it.  It's just a book reading group.

Post any follow up questions as a comment below.

The Host by Stephenie Meyer

Our first book selection is 'The Host' by Stephenie Meyer!

It is 619 pages and 59 chapters plus Prologue and Epilogue.  If we can read 5 chapters a week, we can finish it within 12 weeks.  If everyone feels like they can read more than that, we could adjust it.  But I know how busy everyone is, so this seems like a doable amount for anyone.  Reading should be completed by Sunday evenings, and I can commit to posting each Monday evening.  Everyone can post at any time as we go along, but each Monday would especially be for official posts on the 5 chapters just completed.

I'm looking forward to reading this book again, as it's one of my top 10 favorite books ever.  And since I'm the moderator, anyone will be welcome to email or text me throughout with any questions.

When you begin this book, please make note that the first 6-7 chapters move a little slow, but once you have those under your belt it will be an exciting and satisfying literary adventure.

I am hoping all of us Cherry girls are willing and able to participate in this club!!  And if it works, I'd love to eventually introduce everyone to Aislinn Foy...she's one bad-ass fairy.

So, if you're game, let's begin reading the first set of chapters starting Monday, January 24th.

Happy Reading!!

Lesli