How's this for a scenario: CF has turned down the MD role and HF is mad as hell. "Oh yeah. I'll fix you. He's not such a nice guy, after all."

"Oh yeah. I'll fix you. He's not such a nice guy, after all." LOL!! Evelyn, I think you've got it!!

"Oh yeah. I'll fix you. He's not such a nice guy, after all." LOL!! Evelyn, I think you've got it!! ] That is the only possible reason for doing this. I don't think Rebecca is better or worse for Mark. He's just an idiot!! Karen, are you saying that you don't like MD anymore???? Hmmmmm......

I hope it's OK for a newbie to join in. I've been addicted to BJD since February and I'm very glad to find others. I have to admit that I'm a chronic Darcy Apologist, but after this week I'm not so sure I want Bridget to take him back. I've heard that HF is going to be in New York on June 8th. Are there any New Yorkers willing to go to the B&N at 4 Astor Place and find out why HF decided to ruin Mark Darcy? ;)

Valerie: The more the merrier. Addiction, yes it certainly is and I was so proud of myself that I had given up smoking last fall. I didn't realize that I had replaced it with something else. Do go to B&N and do a Jude and Shaz on her? We need to know why she has turned MD into an invertebrate. (Laura) Karen, are you saying that you don't like MD anymore???? Hmmmmm No way, Josefina! I'm not as fickle as you. ;-) There's an explanation out there. I know it. I feel it in my bones. Translation Time Now that I can see straight, it's that time of the week: 1) That whole Loaded magazine, Which Car, What Car thing???? 2) What are 'furnishing fabrics'? 30 Where's Ubud? In case, you're wondering where I am, Laura, I'm downstairs at *my Gary's*!!

"Ruining" Mark Darcy just when the movie is just about to roll is rather like throwing the baby out with the bathwater! We all need a happy ending......at least in the movies! But I reckon that true love can't be smooth, not when you've got a weekly column to write. I predict that Bridget will fight back (she still loves him) and he will redeem himself (he still loves her, sort of ), but not for several weeks.:-) Dunno where Ubud is. Furnishing fabrics=curtain/drapes material. Can't remember the references to Loaded etc, but Loaded is a laddish magazine. Is BJD on sale yet in the US?

Casting for Bridget: How about Minnie Driver with 30 Lbs (don't know that in "stones") Or Holly Aird (Sarah's flat-mate, Jo in FP) For Rebecca: Saffron Barrows (Nan, in CoF) Translation Time : ( a few weeks ago) "munching on a fairy cake" Worzel Gummidge "slag off Princess Diana" ( Valerie) Are there any New Yorkers willing to go to the B&N at 4 Astor Place and find out why HF decided to ruin Mark Darcy? There's one here in exile who would love to....... Go Valerie!!!

In case, you're wondering where I am, Laura, I'm downstairs at *my Gary's*!! ] That's okay, I'm down the Cape at my Aunts house. At least you have a Gary. Who doesn't do much anyway;p I think that Minnie Driver would be a good Bridget. But I'd be better. I'd have to put some weight on, but one stone shouldn't kill me;p

Minnie Driver would be good, but would she put the weight back on??? And, of course, Mark will redeem himself. He doesn't love Rebecca; he loves Bridget. It's just this godawful wait until he gets to be dreamy again!! Isn't "slag off" putting down? I'm pretty sure I looked it up, but can't remember!! :-(

(Laura) I think that Minnie Driver would be a good Bridget. But I'd be better. I'd have to put some weight on, but one stone shouldn't kill me. Aw, shuddup!! Besides, it can't be anyone beautiful like Kate Winslet, or Jennifer Ehle(who were previusly mentioned) orYOU!

Minnie Driver is too young for the part. Her b-day is 01/31/71 which makes her 27. Bridget it decidedly 30-something. I don't think the part should go to anyone under 32, and 34-36 would be preferable.

Thanks for making me feel welcome! I would love to attend the BJD book reading, unfortunately, I don't live in NYC. There is a web site that lists upcoming author tour dates, but I'm not counting on a book reading near me. :( I shouldn't have said that MD is completely ruined for me, but he is definitely flawed. I've been making excuses for him week after week. I even accepted his "I didn't know you cared" excuse, but after this week he knows he is hurting Bridget but he won't stop doing it. It is going to take several 'romantic mini-breaks' before I feel he's made it up to her. ;) Here is who I would like to see in the movie: Imogen Stubbs (Lucy Steele, Sense & Sensibility) as Bridget; Greg Wise (Willoughby, S&S) as Daniel Cleaver; Patsy Kensit (Angels & Insects) as Rebecca; and Jane Horrocks (Ab Fab) as Sharon. I really hope this will be a British production. I was a little disappointed when I found out John Cusack is doing Nick Hornby's "High Fidelity".

(Valerie) I hope it's OK for a newbie to join in. But, of course! Glad you found us ;-) (Bethan) We all need a happy ending......at least in the movies! But I reckon that true love can't be smooth, not when you've got a weekly column to write. This is a very good point, Bethan. I agree with Karen�there *is* an explanation of some kind, but I don�t believe it will be one which completely exonerates him. I think it very likely that the situation is exactly what it appears to be; a stupid mistake brought on by miscommunication between M & B. The most appealing part of the book (for me, anyway) was how real it seemed. How many of us have thought or said things similar to some of the entries in B�s diary? Life is messy and complete harmony is borin . In keeping with the spirit of the book, HF is creating some real life turmoil. If M & B were together and blissfully happy, who would bother to read the entries? I predict that Bridget will fight back (she still loves him) Well, it would be about time. Frankly, this whining, wounded, waiting-for-the-phone-call crap is getting on my nerves. Geez, woman! If he�s that important to you then open your mouth, find out what�s really going on (don�t just assume). Squeaky wheel gets the grease. Until she has a full conversation with Mark about it (not just one line of dialogue and a paragraph of mental suppositions) we�ll never know why he�s with Rebecca. and he will redeem himself (he still loves her, sort of ), I don�t know if he�ll be able to redeem himself. Bridget got no explanation for the break up. Then again, I wasn�t entirely sure he wanted to break up, she said the words, not him. Then her insecurities got going and he went along with it because he�s a fool. That didn�t make much sense, let me try that again ;-) Have you ever said something to a close friend and they completely misunderstood your intentions? You are so hurt that the friend doesn�t know you better--that they assume the worst of you. So y u just shut off, rather than correct the mistaken idea. Then you think to yourself, �Fine. If that�s what you think� and walk away. This is what that whole break up scene seemed to me. I can easily see a proud man walking away, rather than admit he�s hurt. So now things are all screwed up because he�s a jerk and she�s a wuss. However (and this is a BIG however), there is nothing that can justify involving himself with one of Bridget�s �friends�. It was cruel, disrespectful and showed a tremendous lack of judgement (especially if he still has feelings for Bridget). So, IMO there is no way of redeeming himself there, but perhaps she could forgive him (more clutching for realism). Someone hurts you, you forgive him (for whatever reasons) and, hopefully, move on. Of course, I�m assuming that both parties are adults ;-p (Laura) I think that Minnie Driver would be a good Bridget. But I'd be better. I'd have to put some weight on, but one stone shouldn't kill me;p Laura, on behalf of all the women in the world who could not be considered skinny, I would just like to say: Tthhpphhtthhpphhtthh!!! ;-p

Some translations that were requested: munching on a fairy-cake = eating a small cakey delicacy (v bourgeois) Worzel Gummidge = children's fictional scarecrow character (i.e. a mess) slag off = criticise Mary Bell & those nurses = Mary Bell, a convicted child-killer now receiving payment for contributing to psycho-book; two Brit nurses in Saudi jailed for life for killing Aussie flatmate, but now released in curious political deal Loaded/What Car etc = there are several magazines called "What HiFi", "What Camera", "Which Car" etc advising purchasers. Since the main feature of lads' magazine Loaded is scantily-clad semi-celebrities, Bridget thinks it could be called "What Cleavage". Hope nobody minds a contribution from another male

(Mark) Hope nobody minds a contribution from another male Of course we don't mind! It's not your fault MD is a fool ;-) Thanks for the translations, especially the "What Cleavage" LOL! So, Mark--what do you think of all this? It's not often we get the opportunity to hear a man's POV.

(Valerie) There is a web site that lists upcoming author tour dates Could you post it here? I'm dying to know if HF will be coming to my city. (Nan) However (and this is a BIG however), there is nothing that can justify involving himself with one of Bridget�s �friends�. OK, even if we start with the premise that Rebecca isn't really a "friend," it does happen in real life. I agree, it is despicable of him and shows he has little if any judgment. Then, the question becomes "should" Bridget take him back if and when he comes to his senses, finds out what boyfriend-pinching jellyfisher she is and that she does this only for sport? It's going to be interesting to see how HF brings B&M back together. Will we buy it? How did Rebecca do it? That boy was 100% primetime in love with her. (Mark) Hope nobody minds a contribution from another male Not at all!! Does the "G" stand for "good" Mark as opposed to the "bad" Mark under discussion? ;-)

A defence of MD (I think!) He's rich and successful but deeply scarred by his wife's unfaithfulness and his failed marriage. When he sees Bridget kissing Sinjun (and that is what he sees), he is deeply hurt and his pride is wounded. Bridget makes matters worse by mentioning "breaking up". He retreats, hurt, but does eventually phone her. BJ, encouraged by her idiotic friends, harangues him a la Linda Florentino (?) and refuses to listen to his (so far) innocent explanation. His pride deeply wounded ("I will not pester you again"), e seeks solace (no longer innocent) in Rebecca, who promptly ensnares him in her social network ( along with Magda and Jude). He is now in a mess but is still in love (deep down) with Bridget. BUT (the defence falters) he is basically insecure (his wife cheated on him, great dent to male ego) and he starts to enjoy the fact that two women want him (wife and mistress scenario), and ,like all males, he also wants to avoid confrontation (with Rebecca). But. MD, be warned, I agree with Karen, Rebecca does this for sport. Once she's got her trophy, he'll be dumped, and more insecure than ever. MD has little if any judgement. Perhaps not with women... a cheating wife, the elegant bossy Natasha, and the man-eating Rebecca. We need a male POV on this. How about it, Mark?

Yeah, Mark. We need your POV on the BJ &MD situation. And while you're at it.... (Mark) munching on a fairy-cake = eating a small cakey delicacy (v bourgeois) I'm a little dense...what is the "cakey delicacy" and Why is it Bourgeois? (This is turning into a FAQ on British pastries!!) Thank you for coming to our rescue on the translations.

HF's tour. I am HOPING to be at Astor Place B&N on June 8 to get the dirt but I am on a plane that day which is scheduled to arrive at Kennedy at 5:45. Baring late aircraft, and traffic jams, I should make it, at least in time to get my copy signed and ask some key questions. (it's just around the corner from my place) So, what should I ask? 1. Who is going to play MD in the movie? 2. What the hell is MD up to? 3. Where did the column appear before the Telegraph, and how can we get to it? Any others? (KarenR: this has a certain deja vu about it: remember AS Byatt?? ;-)) There is a post on Pemberley about a book reading time and date in DC (see ramble). I checked the book reading site, and no other times/locations are listed yet. However, will keep you posted.

(Kate) Re: HF Booksigning on 6/8 what should I ask? Who is to play Bridget.? When will the film start shooting? Be released? I envy you . Wish we could all accompany you. Will be eager to get your report......that night.......no rest for the weary!! Someone pl explain: "AS Byatt"

Someone pl explain: "AS Byatt" AS Byatt, author of "Possession". We discussed Possession (a great book, BTW) in the Library at Pemberley. We had a big debate about whether one of the characters was, or was not, a lesbian. So when she came to do a reading of her latest book in NYC, I went along to ask the question.... So you can see I'm experienced in the dirt digging role!

Male POV - Bethan is spot on: MD would have to be superMAN to see easily through blonde, long-legged, organiser-of-social-life, especially when feeling dumped by confused and confusing BJ. Are you girls taking the P&P analogy too far in your expectations of this Darcy? *Fairy-cake* - used for a variety of small, often home-made, sponge-cakes - I think they have overtones of middle-class people imagining they mimic upper-class people's taste for dainties - other Brits may disagree. Who should play BJ and MD? Isn't Colin Firth a cert? I am so impressed by US knowledge of suitable British actresses, but I would like to suggest Louise Lombard (known to UK for The House of Eliott, but poss unknown enough to the rest of the world to suit HF)

Louise Lombard Louise Lombard worried about being over 9 stone??? I don't think so!!!

(Mark G)Are you girls taking the P&P analogy too far in your expectations of this Darcy? YES!!! I don't think she is following the P&P thing anymore. It was just for the book!!!

(Karen) "Bookwire.com" is the web site that lists upcoming author tours. When you get to the site click on "Authors on the Highway". I wish I could say Bookwire had a complete listing, but I think it leaves out some of the smaller venues (and a few of the not-so-small venues). Questions for HF: I don't know if this has already been discussed, but I'm curious about whether that interview with Colin Firth actually took place? Also, does HF feel that Bridget has to remain a singleton? (Maybe this is why she split up BJ & MD?) Of course, you can't forget Bridget's standby questions: What is your favorite color? & What is your favorite pudding? ;-) Louise Lombard as Bridget? Great idea!

Media Alert: New York Times Book reviewed BJD and related article yesterday, but it is still on today. Good picture of HF. URL: nytimes.com/books/ Thanks Mark.for all the translations.

Bethan's Defense Ah hah, so I can't be labeled the *only* Darcy apologist here anymore!! But I must add something funny that I saw recently in the trailer to the new Harrison Ford movie, Six Days Seven Nights (?) which also goes to something Mark said about our, perhaps, too lofty expectations for Darcy. In the trailer, Harrison Ford asks Anne Heche 'what does a woman have to do to turn a guy on.' I don't remember if she answers or not, but his answer is 'Just show up. We're very basic, not complicated.' Louise Lombard Oh, I remember her from House of Eliot. Has she been in anything lately? Must check the IMDb. (Valerie) I wish I could say Bookwire had a complete listing, but I think it leaves out some of the smaller venues (and a few of the not-so-small venues). Thanks for the info, but have no fear, I'm not in one of the smaller venues. A.S. Byatt How could I forget, Kate!! But I know deep down that, if I had posed the question to Byatt, we might have had a different response! ;-) And we would have known the mystery man's identity!!

Are you girls taking the P&P analogy too far in your expectations of this Darcy? Yes and No. Plotwise, it is basically over. But in terms of characters, it would be inconceivable to me that their P&Pness wouldn't carry over into the columns. An author does not change a character. If Mark Darcy is supposed to be like Fitzwilliam Darcy (as played by Colin Firth) then it would continue.

I've just posted on a very recent radio interview with HF, in which she mentioned Mark Darcy and CF. See #59. Mark, I think that Louise Lombard is the best suggestion so far for BJ (although I agree she is rather slim...no obvious weight problem!). I'm surprised we haven't seen more of her since the House of Elliot.

Bookwire gives NYC as the only destination for HF. There must be other cities. Kate, could you ask her,pl. what other cities she will be appearing at? If she gets CF to play MD, she can get an unknown actress to play B.(Like FP) But two unknowns.....won't be too profitable.

Bookwire doesn't have all the appearances. I checked under Nick Hornby and noticed it was very incomplete. So let's not fret too much. Did you see, Helen will be on 20/20 and the Today show. Crank up the old VCRs!!

Some needs to call the publisher to get a run down on the promotional tour. They will give it out!! :-)

But I know deep down that, if I had posed the question to Byatt, we might have had a different response! LOL!! It's all in the way you pose the question! HF is appearing in DC - there's posts on Ramble at RoP about dates and locations. We shouldn't assume that she'll have ANY say over casting - most writers sign over everything when they sell their book to a production company, and control over casting is something she wouldn't have any say in at all. BJ is being published (hard back = $16 plus) by Viking. I've emailed them for info, but don't hold your breath.

The BJ Diary book will be on bookshelves next Tuesday at it is $22. Cover art is ok.

I found another book reading location. June 16th at The Booksmith, 1644 Haight St., San Francisco. I e-mailed Viking, but so far I've only received a sort of standard reply. The audiobook is being published by Random House so I wrote to them as well. Random House has been very responsive in the past so I'm hoping we'll hear something soon.

Okay, BJD is at the Bookstores!!! I was in Borders today just a little while ago and I saw it for 30% off it was $20.65.

(Mark G)Are you girls taking the P&P analogy too far in your expectations of this Darcy? Only as it relates to Colin. We are all so set on CF as MD that we already think of them as one and the same. The problem with this is that we cut MD more slack than we normally would, I think.

Here is the response I've received from Random House. I'm just going to "paste" the entire response. I apologize for the length. Hi. Thanks for writing about BRIDGET JONES'S DIARY. We have published this on audio - read by actress Tracie Bennett - and it's available at bookstores nation-wide. For more information regarding the audio, please visit: http://www.randomhouse.com/catalog/display.cgi?0375404783 MEDIA 06/08/98 NBC/The Today Show 06/08/98 ABC-TV/20/20 04/27/98 Newsweek 06/01/98 Marie Claire 06/01/98 Jane 06/01/98 Harpers Bazaar 06/01/98 Detour 06/01/98 Cosmopolitan 06/01/98 Glamour 06/22/98 Women's Own 07/01/98 Vogue - 1st Serial 07/01/98 MS. Magazine 07/01/98 Mirabella TOUR 06/08/98 Barnes & Noble Astor Place New York, NY - Reading & Signing 06/09/98 Waterstones Boston - Reading & Signing 06/11/98 Olsson's Books and Records Washington DC - Reading & Signing 06/12/98 Book Stall Winnetka, IL - Reading & Signing 06/15/98 Tattered Cover Denver, CO - Reading & Signing 06/16/98 Book Passage Corte Madera,CA - Reading & Signing 06/18/98 Borders Los Angeles - Reading & Signing I hope this helps - and please let me know if you have any questions.

Thanks Valerie for all the media info on BJD. They miss the Southwest again. It's like we don't read in this part of the country. All we do is listen to Garth Brooks!! Latest BJD:2.15pm: Was Gary. "Morning dear," he said to me with a leery smile. "Thanks for last night. Brought you a cappuccino. Can I come in?" Oh my God, what did I do? You're right, Laura, Gary is the new love-interest.Competition for MD??

Still no progress on the MD-Rebecca-Bridget triangle!!!!

Like I'm ever wrong:) hee hee. Ann called me last night and read it to me and I was grinning!!! Now, if she'd only describe him!!! Personally, I think Bridget would not just sleep with anyone, he'd have to be somewhat cute.

I would like to hear Mark's reaction to her sleeping with Gary. I hope that whatever plan BJ comes up with she develops a spine!!

I thought Bridget had a plan.....all she's doing is making a reconciliation with Mark impossible! Don't forget they have already split up once and he went off to work in Japan. Then he asked her to spend the weekend with him in Paris...and she was pleased because this meant he had forgiven her. For what? (this is the lost year in the MD/BJ relationship). Is that why he was so upset about Sinjun? Had it all happened before? Is it happening again? Someone ask HF about the missing year, please!!

(Evelyn)Thanks Valerie for all the media info on BJD. It was my pleasure. I wish HF was making an appearance in my area too. I noticed that the information that I received from Random House is not consistent with the dates posted on Bookwire. I think the book signing dates are OK, but I'm not sure about the television interviews. I'm sorry I didn't check the info before passing it on. :(

Thanks, Valerie, for all your effort. We shall figure out the TV appearances. Anyway, great idea for a question, Bethan. The infamous "missing year" and why they broke up. OK, HF's in my neck of the woods 6/12 so if the question hasn't been asked by then, I'll do it. Right now, I'm working on my Nick Hornby questions for tomorrow! ;-) My reaction to this week: wake me up next Saturday morning. Boooring! What would you expect from me: No Mark!! :-(

Karen, but Jude cancels the wedding. Shazzer is shagging Simon, again. Tom's chasing twins that are having an affair with each other (What's up with that?) And Bridget, the tramp she is, shags Gary the builder. Not boring in the least!!! And Vile Richard show up with fake Irish sounding 22 yo babe and Shazzer decks him!!! Would call this one of the better ones!!!!

Karen, you could ask NH if he has any plans to work with CF again! I think he's working on a film script at the moment. The movie rights to "About a boy" were sold to Robert de Niro's company.

I'm now one degree of separation from CF!!! "For Ann, Best Wishes, Nick Hornby" That's what he signed in my copy of "About a Boy" tonight. As for the films: High Fidelity is being done by the people who did "Grosse Point Blank", and will have John Cusak in it. About a Boy is being adapted by the guy who did "What's Eating Gilbert Grape" and is being done by deNiro's company. Hornby is listed as one of the Exec Producers, but he isn't sure what that means. He figures that if any conflict arises between himself and the others, he'll be overruled. BTW, he's a cutie! (And we made eye contact several times. Hee hee hee.)

Why can't Nick Hornby be loved for himself. WHO CARES ABOUT THE COLIN FACTOR??? Don't you think he wants to move on with his career? I don't think CF is that important of a person to him. NH is very talented on his own!!!! Sorry, I'm done ranting now!!! I secretly trying for the Shazzer role in Bridget;)

(Bethan) you could ask NH if he has any plans to work with CF again! I heard somewhere that Colin would've liked to do Will (Boy) but that since it's going to be Americanized, they probably wouldn't offer it to him. Which of course is total and absolute tripe!! All we've seen over here is Britisha nd Australian actors wonderfully playing Americans. Emma as the first lady, Branagh over and over again, Guy Pearce and Russell Crowe in L.A. Confidential. Not to mention, CF in that farm flick!! Another thing Hornby mentioned elsewhere is that one of the original scripts he's working on now for his production co. with Evans and Posey is about a 21 year old and that Colin *might* be a little old to be in that one. Besides, I think I would be too embarassed to ask NH about CF!! I will try to pose insightful, thought-provoking questions. hee hee!! (Laura) Would call this one of the better ones!!!! Well, I guess that's why there are sooo many books on the shelves at the bookstore. Although I do want to know how many people participated in that tent. Was this a group effort? When Bridget woke up, Shaz was there fully clothed as was Simon. So were Gary and Bridge going at it with the others in attendance? Hmmmm Not only is she a tramp, she is a tramp without any sense of propriety. Ha!!

Gaaagh!!! Helen Fielding is scheduled to be online with Barnes & Noble on Wednesday, June 10 at 9:00 EST.

ooops, that would be EDT.

Hornby in Chicago The side door opened slowly as the restless crowd's low murmurrings and twentysomething laughter were finally quieted. He saw the dark-haired, blue-eyed beauty in the first row and their eyes met. She smiled and he smiled back. Up onto the raised platform he climbed, only to be introduced by a baggy-shorts-clad store clerk with large horn-rimmed glasses. Looking embarassed by the unvarnished praise, he spoke softly about his new book and then began to read the first of three excerpts. A reading made ery difficult by his attempts to sneak glances at the mysterious woman in the first row with the eyes that said everything but when. He tried to clear his mind, his throat but all in vain as his thoughts would not be tamed.... Ooops, maybe this belongs on Topic 34.

HEE HEE HEE HEE. Karen, You saw me there. I was trying to be discreet!!! But alas, my beauty could not be detained from him:) hee hee hee. Very funny indeed!!! Keep going, I wonder if Hornby and I ever connected;) hee hee.

In your dreams you were here! You want more!! Come on he's a respected writer. That would be so disrespectful!!

Anyway, isn't your hair blonde now, v. blonde???

No, not v. blonde, sorta ash blonde:) But you are NOT a respected writer;-p hee hee. hee hee. Good Job, Karen!!!

Nick was here on Tuesday night. I got there well ahead of time and most of the seats were taken, except one in the front row. I set my stuff down and went to buy High Fidelity and then settled in for the wait. He came out of a little door next to where I was sitting and I was probably the first person he saw. Our eyes met and I smiled in recognition and he smiled back. (That part really happened.) He went up on the raised area, which is the "kiddie korner" of the store (I'm smiling inwardly a how appropos this is) and was introduced by a store guy and then he read three selections from AAB. Audience reaction was very good. He was wearing this "comfy-type" outfit. Something one would wear on a plane to be comfy. No jeans. No leather jacket. Even though the weather had taken a dive and has been cool for several days now. He is short to medium height, very nondescript (i.e., you wouldn't notice him on the streets) and unassuming looking. Of course, bald with stick out ears. When he finished his read and after the thunderous applause, he took questions from the audience. Took a while for someone to break the ice, but then there were a lot. A sampling of those I remembered. (Sorry, I should've taken notes.) Are changes made in his books for the American audience? Yes, some but not significant. He's very sensitive to pop cultural differences and wants to get them right. Does he listen to music when he writes? Not the stuff he listens to at home. At his writing flat, he might listen to contemporary classical, whatever that is. Will he always be writing novels? Does he want to get into film? Already has. He did the adaptation for FP, which will be shown here in ltd release later this year or next year, and is now writing an original screenplay. How long did he teach and was there a prototype for Marcus (AAB)? He didn't teach for very long and yes there was a Marcus. He then went on to describe this loner of a kid who wasn't nerdy like Marcus, but stood out for other reasons, which he went into in detail. How do his various audiences get along (i.e., the football types vs. the literary types)? Nick said there is a third audience: the music types. He said at first that the football types would interrupt and take over the Q&A sessions at his promotional tours with football questions, but now they all seem to get along just fine. Then it was signing time. Since I was in the front row, I *could* have been up there rather quickly, but instead I went to the back of the line. It was a long line. People had jillions of copies of his books. I now am familiar with all editions from both sides of the Atlantic. But I am pretty sure I was the only one with a FP Screenplay!! OK, I'm finally at the front of the line and the view of Nick is unobstructed. He looks at me approach and he smiles broadly. I can read on his face: "So there she is, the one from the front row!!" (Well, maybe not, but that's how I like to interpret it!! Everyone has to have their fantasies.) I plopped down my three books; don't know why I didn't bring regular FP to complete the set. As he looks at it, I said, "Probably don't see too many of these around?" To which he replies: "No (with a twinkl ). Are you a Colin Firth fan?" I quickly say yes and turn the subject back to him and how much I enjoy his work. How I loved the movie and how much it made me want to read the book as well as High Fidelity in order to better understand the characters for my film discussion group. How I thought the two had to be taken together. He looked pleased, especially when I said he did a "Brilliant job." Now, it's all downhill as I turn into a babbling moron. I asked him if he wouldn't mind answering some truly trivial and boorish questions. No problem. He was very amused, listened politely to my questions, and answered them when I would give him half a chance to speak. At this point, he must have thought me a raving idiot with a pea brain, unable to ask any halfway intelligent questions. He would have been right. So ends the nightmare. I need counseling before Helen Fielding shows up. I'm likely to throttle the poor woman because of what she is doing to a fictional character!! :-) OOhhhh tomorrow.......what horrors shall be in store?

Actually, Karen hop on your Gary's computer tonight around 8pm your time and you'll find out!!!

I loved your account, Karen! Great stuff! By the time you meet Helen Fielding you'll be a seasoned babbler! But you chickened out on Colin-questions! (I would have, too :-) ) BTW how come NH is popular in the US.....he seems to have quite a following. I didn't think that FP had taken off in the US, although I can imagine that High Fidelity would be successful. I'm really looking forward to hearing about your meeting with HF. Maybe Mark will have redeemed himself by then (he really does love her, you know!) My prediction for tommorow's episode...........BJ finds herself embroiled with Gary against her better judgement. They go out somewhere together and are seen by Mark who looks at her in horror and disappointment! She realises she still loves him, but will he still love her now?!!!!

NO COLIN QUESTIONS TO NICK HORNBY!!!!

Thanks Karen for the Nick Hornby report. Never heard of the guy till FP. I do think he should stick to novels and skip the screenplays. IMHO the weak link in FP was the screenplay.

Evelyn, The novel FP was autobiographical, NH did a good job turning it into a fictional movie!! honestly.

(Laura) Evelyn, The novel FP was autobiographical, NH did a good job turning it into a fictional movie!! honestly. Okay, fearless leader.....if you say so.

*Bridget Jones is away AAAARRRRGGGGHHHH!!!! What happened with Gary!!! Karen, you're Hornby reading went much like mine: I got there about a half hour before, but most of the seats were taken--except for the front row, where I sat. When he came in, he walked right past me, our eyes met, as they did several times while some bloke from the store introduced him (he has a cute smile, which he seemed to flash my way once or twice). Even the questions he was asked were similar: Do you listen to music when you work (contemporary classical means Philip Glass, who he mentioned at the St Paul reading)? Did you get the prototype for Marcus from your teaching? What's up with the movies of your books? Probably half or more of the questions were about film adaptations, which must be discouraging for a writer--as if you haven't succeeded until you have movies made of your work, then the movies take precidence over your writings.

Okay, Nick Hornby is ADORABLE. He was on time. My friend Lynn came and I will kill her later for the big mouth that she has!! Anyway, I asked the first question! (of course) and it was Rob and will are Self-centered, manipulative and Childish. Is Nick Hornby? He got a big laugh out of that one and adored me for it!!! I gave him a New England Revolution T shirt and he was sooooo happy. He is great!!!! He told me that Jonathan Firth lives downstairs from his working studio. See When I gave him the T shirt, Big mouth Lynn said I wanted it signed by COLIN FIRTH!!! I said Absolutely not. Then she offered that I was a big fan of Jonathan Firth and he said that he lived downstairs!!! I handed him a yellow piece of paper and he was very excited by it. I can only h pe girls!!! Second question was. You have been quoted as saying that you would like write screenplays for small British films, yet your novels have been bought by American studios. Does the Americanization of your films bother you as it seems to go against your grain? Because of my first question, his next book will be about a woman who is self-centered, manipulative, and childish. He was looking dead at me when he said that. All in all, I made an impression on him. I told him I was a single mum and he was quite shocked. I don't look like a single mum? Or whatever a single mum looks like!

Thanks Laura ,m'dear for your prompt report. You made my weekend! (Laura)He got a big laugh out of that one and adored me for it!!! And so do we!!! And three cheers for" Big Mouth Lynn". Did he sign your books?

Laura. Brilliant. It is so intersting that JF lives in the flat below. So that probably means that the hype about CF and NH being such good friends while making FP was really true. Otherwise it would be too much of a coincidence for Jon F to have found a flat there of all places. BTW he was living in Colin's flat while he was flat hunting. QED. (Evelyn)IMHO the weak link in FP was the screenplay. I am afraid I agree with you. That and the TV style cinematography. I watched it again the other day. The more I watch it, however, the more I adore Colin's portrayal of Paul.

(Bethan) But you chickened out on Colin-questions! Told you I would. :-) But have absolutely no fear, it is far easier asking a woman about Colin than another man. Helen would *understand.* ;-) BTW how come NH is popular in the US.....he seems to have quite a following. I didn't think that FP had taken off in the US, although I can imagine that High Fidelity would be successful. You're right, FP was not all that popular in the U.S. If and when they ever show the movie, maybe people will be interested enough to read the book, which I adored. High Fidelity has a more universal appeal because music transcends national boundaries for the most part. That being the case, I just gave my autographed HF to my brother-in-law to read. He is a committed audiophile. Maybe Mark will have redeemed himself by then Alas it was too much to hope for. You better believe I'll have the firstquestion out to the gate for Helen!!! (Ann) Probably half or more of the questions were about film adaptations, which must be discouraging for a writer--as if you haven't succeeded until you have movies made of your work, then the movies take precidence over your writings. That's where yours was different. At my signing, there weren't many questions about the film adaptations. He actually volunteered this info, and from the way he sounded he appears more interested himself in film/movies. He is part of the Wildgaze production company with David Evans, the director, and Amanda Posey. I do not get the impression that his main goal in life is to get the Booker!!

He said that HIGH FIDELITY will take place in Chicago or Boston. I was in the ladies room when that question was asked. Big mouth Lynn told me. I am soooo mad at her. When I handed him the t shirt he really was excited and asked if the REVOLUTION were any qood. I told him because of damn Alexi Lalas, which brought a big grin to his face. (He HATES Alexi Lalas!!) They weren't doing to well. ALAS, I'm going tonight to a book signing that is INVITATIONAL only. Karen ask how I managed THAT one:) Hee He !! Will tell you how all went again!!! BTW, did I tell you the Nick Hornby is ADORABLE!!!!!

What's up with the tagging:(((( Anyway, Helen Fielding will be in Boston on 9 June, AND I will DEFINITELY ask why MD is a jerk, creep, FUCKWIT!!! And will post ASAP!!!

...and you've been keeping that information to yourself, i.e., about the invitational appearance....see if you get the book back!! BTW, the fuckwit is Bridget. She's the commitmentphobic. Mark was always the one who tried to find out from her how she felt.

!!! Bridget Jones is away !!! If this is because a certain HF is doing a certain promotional tour in the USA, then I suggest the whole thing be called off. Ha! Meanwhile, at least we have The Tracking of Nick Hornby around the Nation to divert us. Does the poor man know he's being targeted?

My invitational went Wonderfully splendid. It was at this Bookstore in Brookline. Nick Hornby looked quite dashing in Black pants and maroon button-down silk shirt! Because a lot of trade people were there the section he read from had more colorful language. Okay, get there at 7.00pm, my date was my 20 y.o. brother who I have turned into a Nick Hornby fan. He did the reading. Noticed me and smiled. When Tim, my brother, went up to have his book signed, Nick said "Hello, Laura." and I smiled sheepishly. Didn't want him to think I was stalking him:) Anyway, I told him that Tim was my kid brother. Tim wanted to ask him questions not related to the book because he thought he's sick of answering. The question my brother asked? "What cereal do you eat?" I aughed. Nick looked right at me and said "Laura what is it in your family with these questions?" He answered. In England, a raisin weetabix? in the States he's been eating a lot of granola. After the book signings, he mixed and mingled and came over to talk to me. We chatted for about 8-10 minutes. Which is a long time, actually. He asked me what I would do with the information about JF living downstairs and I told him that my ticket was already bought. "Your serious?" he said incredulously. I said yeah. Then explained how I was going to Ireland in three weeks:) He told me he loved Ireland and I offered the same. I told him now I have incentive for going to London and checking out Hi hbury;) said it very cheekily. I apologized for the self-centered, manipulative, childish question. Told him the reason why I asked was because that seems to be the type of men, I'm attracted too. My brother said that sounded like I was asking him out on a date! I mentioned my daughter and being a single parent. He asked how old she was and I told him 7. "How old are you anyway?" I stared at him. Then told him 30. He said he wouldn't have believed it. I do look young and not old enough to have a 7 y.o. who will be 8 in October. His son is 5. And that is the long and short of it. Did I do well?

Very well, indeed. Don't know if I could have chatted for 10 minutes and not even mentioned "FP...and oh, incidentally...about Colin Firth....". I admire your restraint. Saw HF on the Today Show this AM. She is v. attractive. Katie Couric interviewed her and unfortuately had not read the book....yet; "I plan to read it this summer"she said. So the interview was v. general and she did not get into the Bridget and MD relationship. Had she read the book she would have. On the question about the film, HF commented that they are looking for an actress.But nothing definite. "The other day at the gym I saw this young woman on a stationary bicycle just reading a magazine. I said that's her!!

BTW how come NH is popular in the US.....he seems to have quite a following. I didn't think that FP had taken off in the US, although I can imagine that High Fidelity would be successful. } HIGH FIDELITY which is a cult classic here in the States garnered the most questions. Also, someone asked him about his popularity here in the States and he thought it quite odd in a country of 200mm people where 100mm people are writers! He said he was chatting with Helen Fielding recently and they were perplexed by it all. One thing else about Nick Hornby he is very unassuming and gentle. I adored him!!! Ok??? hee hee

Very well, indeed. Don't know if I could have chatted for 10 minutes and not even mentioned "FP...and oh, incidentally...about Colin Firth....". I admire your restraint. Well, I was known as the Jonathan Firth fan. So telling NH that CF is my wallpaper on my computer at work, wouldn't have gone over too well!!!! hee hee. I wanted NH to know that I liked him for him and not CF. Although, many other CF fans there made it known that they were there for the CF connection only. Which I think is in poor taste!

http://reports.guardian.co.uk/papers/19980606-39.html Mark Darcy's Diary

Ok, I did the Helen Fielding thing tonight. She read a longish excerpt from May, in which MD does not appear once. She has the most gorgeous RP accent which is BJ to a tee. I asked her about casting for the movie. She said she wanted an unknown for BJ and told the stationery bike story.... but didn't mention MD!!! When I got my book signed "v.g. wishes" ;-) I said I REALLY wanted to know about CF... she said "I hope so, I really hope so..."... and it all sounds very far off. She said the book was a total rip off of P&P, because it's had centuries of market research. When she first started writing the column it was anonymous... she used it to support her "serious" writing. The column was the basis of the book, but she rewrote it quite a lot so it had a beginning middle and end. There is a sequel in the works, but don't hold your breath. And some other things too, but I can't remember right now.....

Thanks Karen for your report. I waited- up for it!! A pity she could not be more specific on CF playing MD. But at least it was not a definitive "no". HF has had a long day!!She was interviewed this am in New York. Tonight in Chicago!!! I read on the other board that she will be interviewed on CBS This Morning on Wednesday the 10th. Ann previously said that she would also be on 20/20. Does anyone know when?Must be this Friday. Wow, what a week.

Correction: I just realized Kate is in New York City . So HF is still in NYC, It's still a whirlwind-week.

I love the Mark Darcy Diary in the Guardian....well spotted Laura! On the movie, it would have been reassuring to get some more positive information. HF told that story about casting an unknown and seeing someone in a gym a couple of months ago, but there have been subsequent reports of looking at high profile actresses like KW, MD, GP. They won't use an unknown, surely. Probably HF isn't in a position to release any info, until Working Title are up and running. This summer has been mentioned a couple of times in the press as the starting date. There are a couple of othe "single girl" type movies also being filmed, so Working Title can't afford to delay too long. Even BJ can become old news. As to MD, I do hope that HF isn't dangling CF's name as a carrot, like the story of the unknown. (I'm being cynical here!). But she is reported to have told friends that he has agreed. But I have nticed that with CF projects there tends to be no news until filming has virtually started.

Helen Fielding has been quoted as saying NO Gwynneth Paltrow!!! Karen read me the Entertainment Weekly article last night. HF is in Boston today!!!! Kate, how is it that your memory falters so quickly??? And why should we not hold our breath about the sequel??? Did you ask as to why she is making Mark Darcy into such a FUCKWIT!!!! These are hard hitting questions, that I guess I'LL have to ask! Hell, if I can ask Nick Hornby if he is self centered, manipulative and childish, this should be a piece of cake!! hee hee. You want to see Bridget!!! I'll give her Bridget!

Laura, ask her if they are starting shooting the movie this summer as reported,and if not, when?. And when there will be definite news of the casting. I'm fed up with all this will he/won't he stuff! This surely can't be confidential!

Bethan: Entertainment Weekly this week (6/12 issue) has a two page article about both Bridget and AAB. In it, Helen states, "absolutely, positively NOT GP for Bridget," with a shudder!! Hoorah!! Then, there is a little blurb where she asks "how old is Calista Flockhart?" who plays Ally McBeal. Nick Hornby stated that he though Jerry Seinfeld would be a good Will Freeman for AAB, of course he has no real say on that as it is being made by De Niro's film company. Helen Fielding is also supposed to be on Charlie Rose on 6/10. What happened to 20/20?? Did she get bumped by one of those other *hard-hitting* stories? Yuck!!

It should definitely be a British woman who plays Bridget. No Americans!! Pretty bad coming from an American!

Laura, the Barnes and Noble was packed. I asked two of about the ten questions they allowed (one about casting the movie, to which she replied ONLY about BJ, and not about MD, one about basing the book on P&P). I was fourth in line to get my book signed, and there were about 200 people after me, so I squeezed in my question about CF being cast .... but it was impossible to ask more without being a total f***wit and holding up the line. One person (our Marisa in fact!!!) asked about why there was no column in etcera this week - HF seemed very surprised to discover we could get it at all. And since most of the audience were completely new to BJ, it hardly seemed fair to say "why has MD turned into such a bastard??" Lame excuses I know. But I had also literally just got off a plane, and I was a little out of it.

Okay, Helen Fielding was here today. I mean she checked out this Board!!! she mentioned today how she was surfing the net typed in BJD and it brought her here. I had printed out the URL for her earlier and when I handed it to her, I told her I created the topic!! She was amazed and said it was great. She said we've come up with better scenarios then she has!!! Okay, I told her to describe Gary and she will (He is gorgeous!!) Bridget did NOT sleep with Gary!!! I took pictures and will post a more detailed version tomorrow. Want to go home. brought up CF and JF and told her that if CF turns the part down to go with JF and she thought the same thing!!!! well, enjoy she will probably post something in the future here!!!

WELL DONE, LAURA AND KATE.!!! You do us proud.!!Can't wait for more postings .Thanks a bunch!!

(Laura) I mean she checked out this Board!!! Oh, the poor woman! :-O Can you imagine the shock? ;-p I told her to describe Gary and she will (He is gorgeous!!) What? No refrigerator repairman crack? ;-p . brought up CF and JF and told her that if CF turns the part down to go with JF and she thought the same thing!!!! Oh, dear! Laura, this sudden preference for JF is really starting to worry me... To be perfectly honest, we all searched the UK bookstores for BJD months ago simply because of the Colin connection. The fact that the book was such a hoot was just icing on the cake. I howled through the whole thing. I'd like to think that Colin has a sense of humor about the Darcy thing and would be willing to do the film. IMO (and no offense to JF), if it ain't Colin, it ain't Darcy (either one).

Okay, I tried to post something yesterday BUT because I used the word Fuckwit it censored me:( I was at kinkos last night. Helen Fielding read from the May chapter. She says bloody bastard awesomely!!! she is absolutely GORGEOUS!!! Made me feel like sh-t! Anyway, she said these booksigning were always nervewracking because you never know if ppl will show up! She read for about 20 minutes:( Took questions, I asked two. She had not seen the Mark Darcy's Diary and I was kicking myself for not printing it and bringing it to her! Oh yeah, big mouth Lynn came with me:) She was on her best behavior!!! Helen F. is obsessed with CF. She went to Arsenal game with NH, CF, JF. She said the similarity in the two brothers is amazing, she kept calling them both Mr Darcy! I told her MD was a fuckwit and she had some 'splaining to do. I think she hasn't put her heart and soul into it recently??? She was supposed to turn in the sequel three weeks ago, she said the publisher should expect it in six months:) very Bridgetesque;p I was talking to Lynn when I asked her to describe Gary because I wanted to know what this guy that Bridget slept with looked like. "SHE DID NOT!" Helen F. says, smiling. "She didn't? What happened in that tent?" She smiled sneakily. Damn! Well No Bridget this Sat. But next week when on Cape, (Nan, are you going?) Ann will bring her computer so we can log into BJD. It comes out aroun 9pm edt. I think that is all for know.

(Laura) Helen F. is obsessed with CF. She went to Arsenal game with NH, CF, JF. She said the similarity in the two brothers is amazing, she kept calling them both Mr Darcy! What a lucky girl!!!! Laura you were great! Thanks for the info. If her book tour turns out to be a big success, maybe, she will convince Colin to do the movie. Keeping my fingers crossed.

Laura) Helen F. is obsessed with CF. She went to Arsenal game with NH, CF, JF. She said the similarity in the two brothers is amazing, she kept calling them both Mr Darcy! (Moon) What a lucky girl!!!! Mmmm!! I second that!

Well I could be on my way to Highbury!!! Now that I know that Jonathan lives downstairs from NH's writing flat and he does live within spitting distance of the stadium. BTW, Brazil is leading Scotland. Scored in the fourth bloody minute!!!!!

OK, I'm making up my list of questions for Friday. Somehow I can't imagine that there will be over 200 people at the store she will be at. I mean it is not in the downtown area or a Notting Hillish area, but in a suburb packed with beyond Smug Marrieds. That area is definitely NOT her audience. I'm wondering what clueless person booked her into that store. However, I shall be there with my questions and my scenarios for her future colums!! ;-)

HF was interviewed on CBS This Morning by Jayne Robileaux (sp )who unfortunately had not read the book. They had a bunch of British props on the desk. Things that Bridget refers to : Milk Trays, British cigarettes, lottery tickets (alas no Fairy Cakes) . She denied being like B. but admitted to be a "forty-something" (doesn't look it). Repeated some of the same comments. Did she mention MD or CF...NO.!! She is scheduled for Charlie Rose tonight. Good for you Laura, for bringing up CF.(Nan, Laura's fascination with JF is only a passing fancy. And there is this about it...he is single. And CF is taken!! What's a girl to do!!)