For the third time, I'm leading a book discussion online for Barnes & Noble, this time of my novel, 'Cage of Stars.'

The previous times I've done this have been gratifying and surprising, not only in numbers of those who've joined the group, but in seeing the insights and depth of questions they brought to the table.

There have been some spirited differences of opinions and a few clashes, but none that required the moderator to step in and remind us to behave.

At any case, I've usually signed on early in the morning and again in the evening every day for three weeks, starting with the prologue and working my way through the book, often giving a couple of hours a day to the effort, which, in my mind, has been well worth it.

Visit the Barnes & Noble website to find out how you can sign up for the upcoming discussion of my novel and others (including classic novels) and we'll all enjoy doing what we who love books like best -- gossiping about them.

The discussion's open to anyone of any age; so bring your husband, daughter or teen. There's still time to read the novel, which was recently named one of the New York Public Library's Best Books for Teens and Young Adults for 2006. People jump in at any point.

See you there.

Jacquelyn MItchard