Waterfall Wednesdays-A Read-a-Along Event
Waterfall by Lisa T. Bergren
Week 1 – AUGUST 31
Discussion 1- Chapters 1-6
Today’s questions hosted by Tinasbookreviews
1. Waterfall opens with the introduction of Gabi, shes depressed, a little angry and is dealing with feelings of loneliness. Are you connecting with her this soon in the novel? Do you see things you like or dislike?
I could definitely see how Gabi and Lia would feel bored skulking after their mom on her archaeological site. Not quite what I teenager wants to do and the fact that she is not allowed to really get up close to the relics would be frustrating. I’m really liking Gabi’s spunky attitude and a little saddened for her that she just lost her dad and her mom is in her own world of grieving and almost ignoring the girls.
2. Gabi gets to time travel back to 14th Century Italy- The Dark Ages in its prime. Is there anytime in history that fascinates you and would you travel back if you could?
I love history so there are so many places I would love to travel in time to. This castle and knight in shining armor thing is pretty hot. I’m all for the quiet countryside somewhere. However, I would definitely need a WORKING time machine because I don’t know if I last very long.
3. Most of the men, including Marcello have a very set opinion about a woman’s place. Gabi gets manhandled a bit in these first few chapters, and even gets asked if she’s a witch. The men are shocked when Gabi rides a horse like a man and shimmies down the castle walls. What do you think of men’s mentality back then? Gentlemanly, chauvinistic, simple-minded?
I think it was really just the way of things. Even though women were expected to be demure and mind their Ps and Qs, I think many learned to work within the system and get their way anyway. As seen with Lady Rossi, women can be very cunning and conniving when they want something bad enough.
4. When Gabi becomes a part of this era, the people are immediately intrigued but suspicious of her. Many judge her by her differences. Do you think this is fair? Have you ever been in a situation where you felt like an outsider or that others were misjudging you?
I could definitely see why they would all be suspicious of her. I mean, really, where did she come from? She just appears out of nowhere – a tomb, no less, in the middle of a battle…kind of suspicious. It was very common then to suspect women of witchcraft if there was no “logical” explanation of their actions. I think it’s natural for people to compare differences, especially back when they rarely saw new people. Of course, it isn’t fair and it never makes you feel good, but I think being judged by others at least some point in your life allows you to see the shoe on the other foot, so to speak, and think twice before judging too harshly of others.
5. What do think the coolest thing would be about living in the Dark Ages? What would be the worst?
I think the coolest thing would be roaming a castle and the grounds, having a cook that does all the cooking and cleaning, riding horses (even if it was side saddle), and even the fancy dresses and balls would be fun. The worst, I would have to agree that it would be the lack of indoor plumbing. Chamber pots don’t sound fun, even if you’re not the one who has to empty them…ick!
I like your answers! Very thoughtful!
Thank you Julie!