Kylie

Well, that's just my opinion, which probably isn't worth much I was making a bit of a generalisation I guess (naughty me). I'm not well-read enough in this genre to really make an informed opinion, but it just seems that some elements of fantasy are universal. I'm probably thinking more broadly rather than specific things like what Echo pointed out. I don't think I'm making any sense at all now, so I'll stop.

I'm not usually the biggest fan of beetroot - I can take it or leave it - but a good burger must have beetroot! I don't think I've ever had it with brekky though. My goodness, now I'm hungry for a hamburger (hold the pickle). Do you dislike beetroot?

What's this one like? I really admire Michael J Fox. I think he's a terrific guy.

I can't recall reading if JK Rowling has said anything about it or not. But then I suppose if you take any 2 epic novels and put them side by side there will always be elements that are the same.

My regular fiction consists largely of classics, sci-fi/fantasy, Australian novels, humour and young adults. I have about half a bookcase full of books on the paranormal, new age, and the occult and a little over half that again with my autobiographies and biographies about The Beatles. I also have a decent collection of books on gardening, cooking, travel, Australian and UK history, and mosaics.

I have almost no food in my fridge so I'll probably have scrambled eggs on toast.

Yes, I've noticed. There are some more similarities listed on the MuggleNet website.

Have you read The Book Thief, KW? Another tear-jerker. I'll definitely be on the look-out for Zusak's other works.

I've always been a Garfield fan and have a few books at home. I also have Garfield Holiday Celebrations on DVD - I used to watch it when I was a kid and couldn't resist buying them on DVD. I always liked Garfield's voice. On my Mac I have a comic strip widget (called 'Say Cheese') that updates to a new Garfield comic everyday. There are a couple of dozen comics available (including Calvin & Hobbes) but I only check out Garfield. They used to only have the last couple of months' worth available for viewing, but now you can go right back to (what I assume is) the very first Garfield strip from 19 June 1978, where Jon and Garfield look very different.

Excellent post, Kell

Hi Bellatrix and to the forum! By the sounds of your book-buying habits, you'll fit right in!

I've been wanting to re-read The Hobbit for ages but those pesky new books of mine keep getting in the way. I really enjoyed The Thirteenth Tale, and I hope you get to finish Dracula soon! It just gets better and better as you go along

How'd the Murder Mystery dinner go, F&C? You still with us? Having leftover Chinese tonight. Yum!

Yeah, that must be it Or maybe I just like making lists. I enjoy updating my various sites and spreadsheets when I start and finish books

Another big thumbs-up for LibraryThing here. I'm also on GoodReads and I keep a spreadsheet listing details of all my books, plus another one noting which books I've read each year. Why do I keep the same details in so many places? No idea!

Ooh, I'll try to narrow mine down a bit, but I have a lot of favourite songs! Across the Universe - The Beatles Dream a Little Dream of Me - The Mamas and the Papas A Hazy Shade of Winter - Simon & Garfunkel Downtown - Petula Clark Like a Rolling Stone - Bob Dylan Whistle for the Choir - The Fratellis God Only Knows - The Beach Boys Hair - The Cowsills, or the movie version Sunshine of Your Love - Cream (I use this as my ringtone) I'll post more later.

I'm glad you're setting realistic goals, Andy. Olympics in Oxford, hey? Sounds good; I might start saving for it now

I suppose it depends if you're in the mood for something light or a bit more challenging. If you want a laugh, go for Adams, Bryson or Pratchett. If you want more than that, authors that seem to generate good discussion around here include Gregory, Heller and Martel. Whatever you choose, I'm sure you'll enjoy it!

I didn't get your comment at first, V, and then I clicked on the link

Hi Riley and welcome to the forum! There are quite a few Harry Potter fans here (myself included!)