BuzzSugar

Buzz Book Club: The End of Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist

BuzzSugar — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 08:30:45 -0700

Isn't it fun to read a book that gives you happy feelings inside, especially knowing that you'll soon be rewarded with a big-screen adaptation that looks totally cute? I love it when that happens. So, welcome back, Buzz Book Club readers! It is time to discuss the conclusion of Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan. I can't wait to see the movie!

But first, here's how the Book Club goes if you're new: Every week I've suggested chapters to complete by the next post (which, in this case, was every Friday in September). In these weekly Book Club posts, I posit a few questions to prompt discussion in the comments section.

I'll fill you in on my October book soon. For now, to discuss the final section of Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist, in which we read from the start of the chapter 14 through the end of the book, read more.

I'm so glad that Norah was ultimately able to let go with Nick, but I was often disturbed by her use of the term "frigid." I don't think any woman - much less a teenager! - should think of herself in this way. When she said, "Frigid was a choice rather than a truth," I think I was supposed to feel good, but instead I just felt sad. It's like something eerily out of a bygone era. What do you make of all that?
Which parts of the book do you hope make it into the movie adaptation? There are a few little lines (like Nick calling "Salvatore" and saying, "Tell him I hope he likes his new home") that I think would be adorable coming out of Michael Cera's mouth. Are there any parts you think the filmmakers could skip for the big-screen version?
In the end, Norah picks a theme for a mix tape she wants to make for Nick: (T)rainy/Dreamy. What did you think of her song choices? What theme would you give the mix tape or playlist for the best date you ever had?
Speaking of which: Have you ever had an epic first date like this? If so, do tell!

Buzz Book Club: Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist, Section Two

BuzzSugar — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 09:07:51 -0700

Welcome back Buzz Book Club readers! I'm having so much fun breezing through Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan. It's bringing up memories of my teen
years. . . and that's actually a good thing.

Here's a recap of how the Book Club goes if you're new: Every week I'll suggest chapters to complete by the next post (which, in this case, will go up every Friday in September). In these weekly Book Club posts, I'll posit a few questions to prompt discussion in the comments section.

Of course, you are always welcome to read beyond the weekly chapters, but please don't spoil anything in the comments! After the jump you'll find some questions that struck me as I read this section.

The next assignment: Read from the start of chapter 14 until the end of the book! We'll chat about the conclusion a week from today, Sept. 26.

To discuss this next section of Nick and Norah, in which we read from the start of chapter seven until the end of the chapter 13, read more.

I've been thinking a lot about Caroline. Have you ever had a friend like this? Have you been that friend? Would you have taken care of this friend so much, like Norah does, or do you think you might've tried some tougher love?
I've also been thinking about how difficult teen love can really be. Norah's relationship with Tal and the insecurities it's left her with reminds me of how little you have to reference at that point in terms of what's normal (or healthy) relationship behavior. Do you think this book captures how vulnerable teens are in that respect?
Does anyone else think it's hilarious that Jay Baruchel is playing Tal in the movie version of this book?
Once Nick and Norah finally sit down over "drinks" to chat, I think it's hilarious how Norah thinks it's a disaster while Nick is psyched that it's going so well! Have you ever been in a situation like this? Do you think these kinds of misunderstandings happen often?
We learn Tris is more than just an evil ex. Are you glad the authors made her more dimensional or was it more fun when she was the villain?

Buzz Book Club: Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist, Section One

BuzzSugar — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 09:30:40 -0700

Hello Buzz Book Club readers! We've started reading the completely adorable Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan, and so far I'm really enjoying it. What about you?

Of course, you are always welcome to read beyond the weekly chapters, but please don't spoil anything in the comments! After the jump you'll find some questions that struck me as I read this section.

The next assignment: Read from the start of chapter seven until the end of the chapter 13. We'll chat about this section a week from today, Sept. 19

To discuss the first section of Nick and Norah, in which we read from the start of the story until the end of chapter six, read more read more.

Do you identify more with Nick or Norah at this point? I assumed I would identify more with Norah, but I'm finding myself relating to Nick a surprising amount.
Have you gotten used to the style of the book and the way it cuts between the two characters' viewpoints? Are there scenes you wish you could see from another character's perspective?
The book is recommended for grades nine and up. Would you have been allowed to read this book as a freshman in high school? Would you want your child to read it? Or would any of the sex talk and bars (even if Nick and Norah aren't drinking) concern you?
There is so much intense, raw emotion involved in these characters, reminding me of what it was like to be a teenager, fueled by love and angst. It makes me almost nostalgic for a time when we didn't have to always be quite so practical or logical (or "adult") about things. Do you feel wistful for this time of life? Or mostly just relieved that it's behind you?

Buzz Book Club: Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist

BuzzSugar — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 08:30:06 -0700

Hello, Buzz Book Club readers! We finished the August book club selection a week ago and took a little break, because my pick this month is an itty bitty book that I'm really excited about! Drum roll please . . . September's book is Nick and Nora's Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan.

The movie adaptation, starring Michael Cera and Kat Dennings, will be out on Oct. 3, which is right when we will have completed the book. Plus, this has been on my reading list for a long time, so what better excuse to get to it? You can check out the trailer here.

For those of you new to my book club format, here's how it works: I'll announce a new book each month. Every week I'll suggest chapters to complete by the next post (which, in this case, will go up every Friday in September). In these weekly Book Club posts, I'll posit a few discussion-provoking questions for you to respond to in the comments section.

To find out what Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist is all about and to get the first assignment, read more.

The synopsis for Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist reads:
"What happens when two witty, wise, but vulnerable teens meet by accident at a chaotic punk rock club? They fall in love, of course. While both are dealing with the fallout of failed relationships and the infinite hurt that accompanies them, they are questioning everything about themselves, their friends, and their future paths. The passion and intelligence of these characters, along with the authors' intimate knowledge of and complete respect for their audience, make this novel unique. Told in alternating chapters over the course of a single night, the narratives create a fully fleshed-out picture of both teens, informed by their love of music, their devotion to their friends, and their clear-eyed view of the world."

The first assignment: Read from the start of the story until the end of the chapter six. We'll chat about this first section a week from today, Sept. 12.

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