if you are here for tonight's thread, go here: http://www.mumsnet.com/Talk/5005/431968

Ok, not much time, but a few random thoughts on The Gathering.

Overall enjoyed it, although it nearly lost me in places. Struggled to like any of the characters, although that is not a criticism, as it means they have been laid bare with all their flaws.

I still haven't decided what the Gran's culpability was...did she know about the abuse, and was the abuse directed at the Mother as well as grandchildren?

Was the abuse a form of 'punishment' for the Gran for her percieved rejection of the male character (can't remember his name, and I am at work without book!)

I am still a bit confused about the hospital (bit dense ) Was the mother sent there whilst depressed?

Any answers to my questions tonight when you discuss will be gratefully received. I will have a look when I get in from my Thai meal!

40 more pages to go...

All lurking extremely welcome (but erm, don't necessarily count on us for the erudition...)

ER is starting up again? Is gorgeous George going to make an appearance or is he way too busy doing expresso ads? V sad you couldn't get your mitts on a copy, flamesparrow, but please join us next time - have you voted for December BOTM? Agent Zig Zag currently in the lead, and its a brilliant read.

I've read Hidden by Cathy Glass too. I am a new foster carer and learnt a lot. Her books are so gripping you can't put them down. I think she has a lot to teach us as parents and carers.

T'will be fine until ER starts up again

I couldn' get hold of this month's

I may lurk - my RL book club is discussing this next monday, so I'm hoping you lot will make me sound erudite ...

we'll miss you, notyummy, v sad you can't make it but looking forward to hearing what you thought...

Also very sadly, Anne Enright cannot join us on Thursday night due to prior commitments, but we're hoping to email a brief Q&A to her, so everyone do think about what you'd like to ask her.

Just a reminder to anyone who's dropped by that November's Bookclub chat will be at 8pm this Thursday 29th November and we'll be discussing the Booker Prize winner, The Gathering...

See you then x

Bugger...I'm out this Thursday...although won't be usually. Surely you're all watching Californication on Thursdays followed by Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip...US TV doesn't get any better!

Won't be able to do the upcoming chat, but I' just finishing The Gathering, so will post some thoughts beforehand.

Great, I've put it on my list, looking forward to reading it...

Squonk, so sorry to mess things up with the dates, really hope you can join us...