Brush Up On Your Reading

Book Review: Please Ignore Vera Dietz by A.S. King

2011-10-08T19:55:00.002+08:00

Title: Please Ignore Vera Dietz

Author: A.S. King

Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers

Published: October 12th 2010

Format: Hardcover, 336 pages
ISBN: 0375865861 (ISBN13: 9780375865862)

Summary from Goodreads:

"Vera's spent her whole life secretly in love with her best friend, Charlie Kahn. And over the years she's kept a lot of his secrets. Even after he betrayed her. Even after he ruined everything.

So when Charlie dies in dark circumstances, Vera knows a lot more than anyone—the kids at school, his family, even the police. But will she emerge to clear his name? Does she even want to?"

Thoughts:

A Talking Pagoda

Please Ignore Vera Dietz by A.S. King had a very unique concept of story delivery. Yes it's very common to have multiple characters talking about their sides of the story in one novel, but this one did more than that - it did not just have people giving their insights, but an inanimate object as well. It was also able to convey this really poignant feel without being too depressing as the blurbs would have us believe. It showed objectivity but it did not detach the reader from the emotional quality of the book.

But...

...some parts felt dragging and too slow, often a bit too redundant. I get it, Vera got screwed over by her best friend, but she still had to clear his name or she won't be able to live with herself. Do I really want to read some slightly differed variations of this situation over and over before finally getting this issue resolved? No, I already got the gist of it the first few times it was mentioned.

But then...

...at least I was able to enjoy Vera's dry wit and sarcasm and her father's labile behavior. I poked fun at her dad's seemingly square personality and I was so angered at Jenny Flick's unbelievably nasty antics.

Of course...

...I looked forward to reading about the book's resolution and whoah, imagine my surprise (and disappointment) that it got really fast-paced towards the end that although it was satisfying to see it end the way I liked it (not a spoiler, I do not necessarily always want a happy ending. Again, NOT a spoiler), it just felt a bit hurried in the way that the original premise felt too slowed down.

And the verdict...

...I liked reading Please Ignore Vera Dietz, it had some awesome potential. Maybe if I read it a few more times I'd get what Ms. King wanted the readers to see in her story. But for now, I'd say it's OK.

Oh and by the way...

All opinions expressed in this book review are my own and not influenced by any party in any way.

Please contact me for questions, comments, and suggestions.

'Til the next book!

Book Review: Sue's Fingerprint by Andrew D. Carlson

2011-08-01T20:06:00.000+08:00

Book Info

Title: Sue's Fingerprint

Author: Andrew D. Carlson

Language: English

Format: Paperback

ISBN - 13: 978-0615456225

Pages: 232 pages

Source: From the author, Andrew D. Carlson

Buy this book on Amazon

Summary

From Goodreads

"A gel-like substance is suddenly discovered across the country. Ted Stevens, a Director in the Department of Homeland Security, is assigned to investigate. He enlists the help of scientists at a government laboratory to analyze the ‘goo’. They discover the substance was sent to Earth and has unique properties; it can clone animals. Ted soon learns the substance can also clone humans.

Sue is the first of eleven new people cloned from the alien substance. She and the others arrive without prior knowledges (and without clothes!). They are discovered and recovered by Ted and contained on an abandoned military base. While there, the clones learn about themselves and the world around them. They also receive a message. Sue decides she must deliver it, and one morning they find she’s gone.

During the recovery of Sue, Ted learns of the clones’ message and begins to understand their true intentions. He needs to know more about the clones, so he collects samples for DNA fingerprint testing. The fate of the new people will be decided by the results from Ted’s friends at the laboratory."

Review

Ever wondered what would happen if there were human clones? Would they have the same knowledge as the cloned person? Would they have the same natural life span? Can they live a normal human life among other 'uncloned' humans? In scientist - now also a writer - Andrew D. Carlson's Sue's Fingerprint, he not just talks about the scientific dilemma of cloning humans and the possibility of alien life forms, he gives an insight into identity, personality, and the individuality of a person - cloned or otherwise.

Sue and her friends were cloned from humans from a gel-like substance that was dropped off the Earth's atmosphere from space. Their adventures (and misadventures) as they attempted to live like any normal person were very human-like it was funny and endearing. The concept of the story was unique, yet the delivery was simple and concise. Any reader (be it a sci-fi fan or not) would definitely get hooked after reading a few pages of this book, wanting more. I found myself lost in the story as it unfolded with vivid descriptions and relatable characters. I liked how it talked about science without putting me to sleep, which I really think is a serious challenge because really, complicated stuff like DNA and atoms and molecules either give you serious information overload or get you bored out of your mind. In some books, when it comes to the parts where detailed lectures about some scientific phenomena happen I tend to just scan through them because I found them to be too exhausting and a wee bit boring. That never happened while reading Sue's Fingerprint. The development of the story was just too exciting for me to notice that I have already waded through some very complicated scientific matters, and the way it was presented, it was like it was your own idea to learn about those topics anyway. I like that it gave me a good story and taught me something interesting at the same time.

Reading about Sue and the other clones gave me such a kick that I found myself occasionally laughing at their antics because most times I felt like I was reading about someone I know - myself, even. They were, I guess, based on real human characters but Mr. Carlson found the twist to make them as unique as possible. The imagery that his descriptions provided really helped in accepting each and every person in this book and although the scientific side got me a bit puzzled, I nonetheless felt comfortable reading such a story, and actually as I turned to the last pages, I was left hankering for more. I really wanted a sequel for this book and find some new interesting twists and new geeky stuff to learn about.

Rating

If you have any questions on this particular rating, please refer to my ratings system here.

Notice

I received this book free of charge from the author, Andrew D. Carlson, in exchange for an honest and truthful review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Please contact me for questions, comments, and suggestions.

Shelf Saturday Featuring Author Cody Young

2011-07-02T15:02:00.000+08:00

We all love our books, and we want them to have the best shelves ever. Also, this is a new way to sort of show off your book collection, along with your funky shelves.

ARGH thought fitting himself in the bookshelf will help him sleep.

For this new edition of Shelf Saturday, let me feature the book case of romance books author, Cody Young who wrote American Smile and recently released Scandal at the Farmhouse.

I'm Cody Young and I love to read. I've always collected old books, and that seems appropriate now that I have started writing historical fiction - mainly romance - some Young Adult fiction. I was born in England, but I now live in New Zealand. We didn't bring that many books with us, but since we arrived we have collected thousands.

The thing I love most about my bookshelf is that it contains a whole collection of old friends. Wind in the Willows was a favorite when I was little, for example, then I read Noel Streatfield and Judy Blume and Barbara Willard, then Dickens and lots of classics, and then I started collecting really old books like Mrs Beeton's Guide to Household Management.

More recently I've read a lot of chick lit and romantic fiction, including the Twilight Saga - which you will see right in the middle of my shelf, with Homer Simpson sitting beside it, looking bemused.

One unique feature of my shelf is that I keep a microscope on it - not sure why - it just lives there. I also have a ladder chair, which I love. It's a chair that folds back into a ladder, and I use it when I want to reach the books that live on top of my shelf - like my Ultimate Teddy Bear Book and my Atlas of the World.

Your library just reminded me of my own dream library, Cody. You've got stairs! How cool is that? And it's amazing that you were able to collect thousands of books. I am in awe.

It's great how you describe books as old friends, I have always thought of my books as my friends too and sometimes there are just books on my shelf that whenever I'm in a bind, I would think to myself: What would (insert character's name here) do?

That microscope is awesome! I totally want one, if only for design purposes. And yes, I do think Homer is looking a bit bemused, maybe a doughnut will help him cope.

Thank you so much for sharing your bookshelves with us, Cody!

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Think this is a great idea? Want to have your shelves featured? Then fill out this form and ARGH and I will email you for details on how to be a movie star - er, how to be featured on Shelf Saturday :D

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A Little Book Told Me...

2011-06-29T21:52:00.000+08:00

-Paul,

from Boy Meets Boy by David Levithan

10 Good Things on a Monday: Ten Fantastic Book Back Covers

2011-06-27T06:09:00.000+08:00

10 Good Things on a Monday is a weekly feature I am doing dedicated to every person's compulsive list-writing. Every Monday we are going to make a list of 10 things that will cheer us up and help tide us over the whole week.

Here's how it works:

Think of a particular group of good things you want to make a list on, does not necessarily have to be about books, e.g. your current book wish list, or your favorite book foods (you know, foods you love to eat while reading, if you're like me), or your favorite girly names, whatever you can think of, as long as it makes you feel good.
If you have no ideas for a list, you can always visit my blog post to check out my theme for that week and you can take a cue from my list.
Post your list on your blog, grab that cute ARGH button above and put it on your post too, so we'd know you're doing this meme.
Leave the link for your post on my own 10 Good Things post for the week, if you see others doing it, comment too and let's share our good things with everybody.
Everybody goes through the whole week happy!

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My 10 Good Things for this week: Ten Fantastic Book Back Covers

Just recently, I did a list of Ten Fantastic Book Covers. Obviously, it showed us the front covers of the books. And while it's only common that we should show what's in front, I sometimes wonder how a book's back cover feels - if it could feel anything at all. So to give tribute to the terribly underrated part of a book, let's see some back covers that rock my socks :D

1. This cover of Wuthering Heights is already tons of awesome, but you see that back part? I am love, love, loving that window!

2. I can't exactly tell you what I like about this back cover - maybe the fact that there are some phrases that were enlarged and given more emphasis? Maybe because it echoes minimalism? The gray color? Maybe all of the above!

3. What I like about this one, I can definitely tell you: The colors! I like that it has those smudges of colors arranged in a very orderly way but still looks like it was just thrown together.

4. I was initially confused about which goes in front and which goes in the back, then I figured it out (obviously the one with the title and author goes in front, stupid me), and although the back part just features words, words, and lots of words and less focus on the design, I loved the awesomeness that the written message tells me.

5. I have never seen a frumpy cover for Brave New World, every copy of that book looks really cool, and this one by far looks really cool - it just screams 'Acid rock!' to me.

6. I have this book and I just can't stop staring at the back cover. It's so clean and really relates to the whole story.

7. Where are you? Why not try asking me what I like? Because I'm really liking this back cover.

8. Those wings look really glorious!

9. When have you ever seen a kiddie book that does not have a really attractive cover? And this back cover looks whimsy and fun.

10. Graffiti love! ♥

So tell me, what are your Good Things?

The Weekly Book Report 6/20 - 6/26/2011

2011-06-26T13:23:00.000+08:00

Missed this week's blog fun? Don't worry, because ARGH and I are here to the rescue, with The Weekly Book Report!

Book Review:
Mini Reviews Part One:
     The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath
   Forget You by Jennifer Echols
     Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
     The Big Crunch by Pete Hautman

Mini Reviews Part Two:
     Girl, Stolen by April Henry
     Wherever Nina Lies by Lynn Weingarten
   Your Heart Belongs to Me by Dean Koontz
     Wide Awake by David Levithan

Features:

Shelf Saturday featuring Tessa @From the Bookshelf of T.B.

Follow Friday and TGIF 6/24/2011
10 Good Things on a Monday Ten Movies About Dads

Other Posts:

About a Book in Four Pictures: Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson

Currently Reading: The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory

Have a great new week!

Shelf Saturday Featuring Tessa @ From the Bookshelf of T.B.

2011-06-25T10:14:00.000+08:00

We all love our books, and we want them to have the best shelves ever. Also, this is a new way to sort of show off your book collection, along with your funky shelves.

ARGH thought fitting himself in the bookshelf will help him sleep.

For this new edition of Shelf Saturday, let me feature the book case of this blogger friend of mine, Tessa @ From the Bookshelf of T.B.:

Hi everyone! My name is Tessa. I’m fourteen years old and an eighth grader in middle school. I’ll be going into high school this coming fall. I love to run and I’m in track and cross-country. I’m more of a long-distance runner, with my main events being the 3000m race and the 1500m race, but I enjoy sprints as well.

Some random facts about me:

-I’m the youngest of three.

-I love, love, love the color teal.

-My grandpa was the one who got me to start a blog. Intrigued? :)

-I could eat cookies ‘n’ cream ice cream for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

-Italian food is my favorite, especially lasagna. Did I mention I like food?

Now enough about me, let me tell you a bit about my shelves. I actually got my shelves from a Borders store that was closing nearby me. It was the last day they were open so there wasn’t too much left. Luckily, I was able to buy four bookshelves from Borders for really cheap. The funny thing is, when I got home only two would fit in my room.

The feature I love most about my bookshelves is that they’re pretty tall and they’re double-sided. It’s cool, because it feels like I’m in a library or bookstore when I go between them. And I get double the shelf space, which I could always use more of.

This is what the front of my main shelf looks like. The top shelf holds my books that are in a series, and are a mix of paperback and hardcover. For some reason I just don’t like having a series with both paperbacks and hard covers. I’d rather have only one or the other. Next, my second shelf consists of my hardcover books. Then, my third shelf has all of my paperbacks that are in a series. Finally, my last shelf holds my paperbacks (some might also be in a series, but I just don’t own the rest yet). Other than that, I tend to organize my books by the ones that jut out the most on the far-left, and the rest just by the jacket color in an order that pleases the eye. I know, a bit complicated and quirky, but it works out great!

Another shot of my bookshelf.

This is what the front side of my other shelf looks like. On the left side of the top shelf are books that I’ve borrowed from my family or friends that I still need to read. On the right side of the top shelf are books that I have read but still need to write reviews for. I always tend to fall behind :p My second shelf holds all of my books that I have bought and still need to read. I really need to start reading all of these! All of my ARC’s and books sent to me by publishers are on the third shelf. Plus my painted ceramics and little chotchkies are on this shelf as well.

My mom made this for me, and it fits perfectly on the top of my shelf. The letters spell the name of my blog, From The Bookshelf of T.B. It was extremely thoughtful and sweet of her to make it for me. I love seeing it everyday as a reminder on top of my bookshelves.

So that basically sums up what my shelves are all about! Thank you so much Nina (and ARGH!) for this wonderful opportunity! It was a lot of fun, and I hope you all enjoyed seeing my shelves. I hope to have even more books filling them soon!

Eating ice cream the whole day! I would love to try that some time!

Those are very nice book shelves you have there, Tessa! They give this library feel which I'm sure most book lovers are crazy about! Lucky you to be able to snag these shelves from Borders. I'm sure a lot of the readers out there are now planning to scour their area for book stores about to close to get a couple of shelves (on one hand, I hate it when book stores close shop, but I love it when they sell their store equipment, especially the shelves and tables!).

And that name thing is awesome, your mother is very creative! Same goes for those bookends. Your having a grandpa who would tell you to go make a blog about your books is amazing, I wish all grandparents are like that. You have a really cool family, I can tell! :D

Thank you so much for sharing your bookshelves with us, Tessa!

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Follow Friday 6/24/2011

2011-06-24T21:24:00.001+08:00

Friday is upon us again, and here in another edition of Follow Friday by Parajunkee's Views is a pretty interesting question that we all need to answer. This week's question is:

Q. In light of the Summer Solstice. Also known as Midsummer...let's talk about fairies. What is your favorite fairy tale or story that revolves around the fae?

I've already talked about ten of my favorite fairy tales, but my most favorite? The Wild Swans by Hans Christian Andersen. I just loved that story, and I found an animated film version of that and I just watched it again and again.

As for stories about fairies, my favorite would have to be Peter Pan, of course!

*****

Hello there again! This is another hop that I have decided to participate in. This is my first time on TGIF! Yay! Since I am always looking out for the weekend, it only follows that I should do this to really kick off the weekend fun.

This Friday's Question:

Summer Love: Where is your ideal place to take a

summer vacation & get lost in a book?

This is a very easy question. I have a favorite place here in the Philippines, it's near Tagaytay and it's called Balay Indang Red Ginger Farm. It's a garden retreat place that a friend of my mom owns and she often invites us to come over. I loved lounging around the different houses and cottages there, and there were even beds outside under the trees! I once brought a book there and it was such a great experience. And the food is awesome, too :D

Here are some pictures:

The Watch Tower. This is my preferred place to hang out and read. You can go inside and find a really comfy bed and a rocking chair, as if asking you to take your pick.

The Main House

The Dining Area

The Stairs to the Dining Area

How it all looks from afar.

Another cottage where you can find some bean bags to sit or lie on.

Would you believe that this is part of a toilet and washroom? I'm standing next to the toilet, of course.

For other pictures (not taken by me), you can check out Balay Indang (The Red Ginger Farm and Garden) on Flickr.

*****

So that's it, I hope you all have a great weekend, and happy reading to everyone!

Mini Reviews (Because I'm drowning in books!) Part II

2011-06-24T09:33:00.084+08:00

Part two of my mini reviews feature more YA fiction. I know, some might wonder if I'm already crossing over to mainly YA books but it's just that there were a lot of YA books lying around in my TBR pile so I went ahead and read them to make way for some adult fiction (like True Grit by Charles Portis, which I'm very excited to read).

Girl, Stolen by April Henry
Henry Holt and Co., 213 pages
From The Boyfriend, bought from Fully Booked

Sixteen year-old Cheyenne Wilder is sleeping in the back of a car while her mom fills her prescription at the pharmacy. Before Cheyenne realizes what's happening, their car is being stolen—with her inside! Griffin hadn’t meant to kidnap Cheyenne, all he needed to do was steal a car for the others. But once Griffin's dad finds out that Cheyenne’s father is the president of a powerful corporation, everything changes — now there’s a reason to keep her. What Griffin doesn’t know is that Cheyenne is not only sick with pneumonia, she is blind. How will Cheyenne survive this nightmare, and if she does, at what price?

Review: After reading Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth Scott, it's no wonder that I would want to read something similar but entirely different, and in my opinion, Girl, Stolen by April Henry made that grade. It was refreshing to read about a handicapped protagonist who, although burdened with a disability, was very resourceful and courageous. It was great to read about someone that I know I and a lot of other people would want to look up to, someone who could be a role model. Cheyenne deserves to be emulated by teens everywhere, as she tackles her situation and conquers her fear with her quick thinking, resourcefulness, and intelligence. The second best character in this book in my opinion was not Griffin, but his father, Roy, who was so pathetic and scary and was nothing short of a monster. I know that his presence - and the plot itself - might classify this book as from a darker YA genre, but there really are people like Roy who exist in real life, and his character was very spot-on. Ms. Henry was able to write about a unique story with as much poignance, clarity, and emotion as possible.

Wherever Nina Lies by Lynn Weingarten
Point, 288 pages
Received via Random Acts of Kindness from Ashley @ BookAHolics Anonymous

Nina was beautiful, wild, and adored by her younger sister, Ellie. But one day, Nina disappeared. 2 years later, everyone has given up hope that Nina will return, but Ellie knows her sister is out there. If only Ellie had a clue where to look.Then she gets one, in the form of a mysterious drawing. Determined to find Nina, Ellie takes off on a crazy, sexy cross-country road trip with the only person who believes she's got a chance - her hot, adventurous new crush. Along the way, Ellie finds a few things she wasn't planning on. Like love. Lies. And the most shocking thing of all: the truth.

Review: Obviously, this is one book I would place on my wishlist. Why? For its title. I'm such a sucker for books that has characters with the same name as me. So I really thank Ashley @ BookAHolics Anonymous for including this to the books she sent me for RAK.

Moving on, I really thought Lynn Weingarten's Wherever Nina Lies was such a joyride I had to read it thrice after the first reading. It was that good. Sure there were some elements there that do not add up in reality, but those were exactly what made it more fun to read, because it was written with such convincing clarity you would willingly step into its fictional world and accept it as truth. I also loved the characters and their unique personalities. Really great read, and cover too!

Your Heart Belongs to Me by Dean Koontz
Bantam, 368 pages
Bought from Celina's Books and Magazines

The news that he had incurable cardiomyopathy struck Ryan Perry as hard as any heart attack. The 34-year-old Internet tycoon felt that his days were numbered; but thanks to a transplant, he was able not only to survive but to move forward, enjoying every day with the gratitude of a true survivor. Then one day a gift arrives; a heart pendant accompanied by a Valentine's Day box of candy hearts. With it comes a chilling message ("Your heart belongs to me") and an even more frightening video. Suddenly, Ryan's healthy, throbbing heart has become the target of a madwoman.

Review: I was really looking forward to my first-ever Dean Koontz book. I was so interested in the story of Your Heart Belongs to Me that I did not hesitate to buy myself a copy. The plot was awesome, the characters awesomer, the beginning was great, the middle was great plus one, but the end? Not so much. It began to get muddled and it was almost as if another story was spliced to the ending. I thought that Mr. Koontz was trying to wax philosophical with this novel but it ended up being something entirely different. Otherwise, I would still keep this book if only for the beginning and middle parts.

Wide Awake by David Levithan
Knopf Books for Young Readers, 240 pages
Bought from Celina's Books and Magazines

In the not-too-impossible-to-imagine future, a gay Jewish man has been elected president of the United States. Until the governor of one state decides that some election results in his state are invalid, awarding crucial votes to the other candidate, and his fellow party member. Thus is the inspiration for couple Jimmy and Duncan to lend their support to their candidate by deciding to take part in the rallies and protests. Along the way comes an exploration of their relationship, their politics, and their country, and sometimes, as they learn, it's more about the journey than it is about reaching the destination.

Review: Background Music: Imogen Heap's 'Have You Got It In You'

Wide Awake by David Levithan could have been a prequel to Boy Meets Boy, where equality in all sexes was already prevalent; except some scenes from the latter were obviously more dated and occurred earlier than Wide Awake. Emotionally-charged despite less heavy and traumatic scenes, the story happened in less than a week and tackled some dire issues heavily debated among communities such as homosexuality, religion, and politics (which I almost never talk about). This book would really help the younger generation to become more self-aware and keep their eyes open for social issues confronting their times, at the same time maintaining that patented David Levithan intelligent humor and appeal that will certainly captivate its readers and advance their vocabulary.

*****
Four more books down!

Check out my Mini Reviews Part One

Mini Reviews (Because I'm drowning in books!) Part I

2011-06-23T11:15:00.001+08:00

Last time I checked, there were seven books that I needed to review, and as much as I would just like to not write anything, I thought it would be unfair to all those books (especially as I loved most of them). However, Blogger gave me such a hard time that I gave up, and when I got back to this post, I already have nine books to talk about. Nine. I read way too fast these past few weeks but I was totally in a slump about what to write about books. It's sad.

The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath
Harper Perennial Modern Classics, 266 pages
Bought from Powerbooks

This extraordinary work chronicles the crack-up of Esther Greenwood: brilliant, beautiful, enormously talented, successful - but slowly going under, and maybe for the last time. Step by careful step, Sylvia Plath takes us with Esther through a painful month in New York as a contest-winning junior editor on a magazine, her increasingly strained relationships with her mother and the boy she dated in college, and eventually, devastatingly, into the madness itself.

Review: I really loved The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath. It's like old school chick lit, but with more sensitive, more serious themes. Esther was such a lively presence, even during the times when she was at her lowest. The story just got to me and there were times when I had to pause because it got too emotional. The voice just messes with your brain that you are led to believe everything, even the parts where it's obviously wrong but you get convinced otherwise. Way to go Sylvia for your awesome story. Too bad she's gone now. I would have loved to write her a letter.

Forget You by Jennifer Echols
MTV Books, 292 pages
Received via Random Acts of Kindness from Ashley @ BookAHolics Anonymous

There’s a lot Zoey would like to forget. Like how her father has knocked up his twenty-four- year old girlfriend. Like Zoey’s fear that the whole town will find out about her mom’s nervous breakdown. Like darkly handsome bad boy Doug taunting her at school. Feeling like her life is about to become a complete mess, Zoey fights back the only way she knows how, using her famous attention to detail to make sure she’s the perfect daughter, the perfect student, and the perfect girlfriend to ultra-popular football player Brandon. But then Zoey is in a car crash, and the next day there’s one thing she can’t remember at all—the entire night before. Did she go parking with Brandon, like she planned? And if so, why does it seem like Brandon is avoiding her? And why is Doug—of all people— suddenly acting as if something significant happened between the two of them? Zoey dimly remembers Doug pulling her from the wreck, but he keeps referring to what happened that night as if it was more, and it terrifies Zoey to admit how much is a blank to her. Controlled, meticulous Zoey is quickly losing her grip on the all-important details of her life—a life that seems strangely empty of Brandon, and strangely full of Doug.

Review: There were some parts of the synopsis for Forget You by Jennifer Echols that was a bit misleading, but I still loved the overall story. Some parts were a bit muddled, and sometimes I did not like Zoey all that much but the fact that I felt strongly about/against her just means that the writing style was very effective and made the novel really alive and realistic.

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
Penguin Classics, 453 pages
From The Boyfriend, bought from National Bookstore

Orphaned into the household of her Aunt Reed at Gateshead, subject to the cruel regime at Lowood charity school, Jane Eyre nonetheless emerges unbroken in spirit and integrity. She takes up the post of governess at Thornfield, falls in love with Mr. Rochester, and discovers the impediment to their lawful marriage in a story that transcends melodrama to portray a woman's passionate search for a wider and richer life than Victorian society traditionally allowed.

Review: Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre was awesome! It was funny, it was emotional, and most of all, it was powerful! (OK enough of the exclamation points) I loved the dialogue, which was filled with humor and Jane's sarcastic wit. She was snarky, smart, and had a lot of guts that had she been born in the present times she would have Girl Power written all over her. The other characters were remarkable as well for contributing to a genuine feel to the novel. The writing was a bit confusing at first, especially when Jane was describing what another person was telling her, but once you were able to wade through that, you're good. I loved this book!

The Big Crunch by Pete Hautman
Scholastic Press, 288 pages
Bought from Powerbooks

June and Wes do not "meet cute." They do not fall in love at first sight. They do not swoon with scorching desire. They do not believe that they are instant soul mates destined to be together forever.

This is not that kind of love story.

Instead, they just hang around in each other's orbits...until eventually they collide. And even after that happens, they're still not sure where it will go. Especially when June starts to pity-date one of Wes's friends, and Wes makes some choices that he immediately regrets.

Review: I've been looking for a copy of The Big Crunch by Pete Hautman for so long that I was so overjoyed when I found one and bought it right away - regardless how much it cost (it was pretty expensive). Fortunately, I was spared from regretting the purchase. The story contained within this book was worth every penny I paid for it; even though this is mainly a very light read, it had a lot of great moments and I loved that the romantic angle was uniquely executed. The characters were the type you would want to be friends with had they been real, and the writing itself was simple enough that you can really focus on the story itself and not worry about other details.

It should be noted that after I read this one, my Mom went ahead and devoured this book, and she was all mesmerized by the cover.

*****

Thought I'm done? I'm just getting started. Four books down, five AND MORE to go. Watch out for the next mini review :D

Check out my Mini Reviews Part Two

About a Book in Four Pictures: Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson

2011-06-22T15:33:00.000+08:00

Inspired by Kyle Tezak and his Four Icon Challenge, I will be creating four pictures on my own - or I will borrow from the internet - that will tell you about a certain book. Like book reviews, this will help you learn more about some books out there but without having to read lengthy analysis of plots/characters/etc. This feature will help feed your curiosity about a particular story in the briefest - and more visual - way possible.

This week's featured book is Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson. I loved this story, even though the tone was a bit too morbid and poignant. But it was a really great book, no matter if you want to read it for deeper understanding of eating disorders, or just for a good story.

From the pictures above, you can now understand that a significant event in Lia Overbrook's life happens in a motel, where her best friend Cassie dies, alone. She called Lia thirty-three times on her cell phone before she died. Both Lia and Cassie have eating disorders and even had a pact that they would be the skinniest girls ever. Apart from this sick goal, Lia also cuts herself in order to ignore some things that she struggles to 'un-feel' within herself.

I know, it's pretty depressing, but once you get to the end, you will agree that it was more than worth it.

Interested about Lia and Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson? Check this out:

My book review of Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson

10 Good Things on a Monday: Ten Movies About Dads

2011-06-20T10:18:00.001+08:00

Here's how it works:

Think of a particular group of good things you want to make a list on, does not necessarily have to be about books, e.g. your current book wish list, or your favorite book foods (you know, foods you love to eat while reading, if you're like me), or your favorite girly names, whatever you can think of, as long as it makes you feel good.
If you have no ideas for a list, you can always visit my blog post to check out my theme for that week and you can take a cue from my list.
Post your list on your blog, grab that cute ARGH button above and put it on your post too, so we'd know you're doing this meme.
Leave the link for your post on my own 10 Good Things post for the week, if you see others doing it, comment too and let's share our good things with everybody.
Everybody goes through the whole week happy!

----------

My 10 Good Things for this week: Ten Movies About Dads

1. Up - The film centers on an elderly widower named Carl Fredricksen and an earnest young Wilderness Explorer named Russell who fly to South America by floating in a house. I know this is not about a father and his child, but the bond between Carl and Russell was like that of a father and his son, it was so touching. And of course, I could not resist the animation! Awesome!

2. 17 Again - is the story of 37-year-old Mike who becomes 17-year-old high school student after a chance accident. This was a really nice film and it had some really funny moments.

3. Dad - This is a film based on William Warton's novel, Dad. I haven't yet read the book, but the movie was very emotional and engaging. I loved the relationship between Jake and John.

4. Everybody's Fine - Frank Goode is getting ready for his children to come visit him. He gets everything all set, goes out and buys a new grill, expensive wine, and gets the backyard and house all ready. One by one though, each of his children call to cancel on him. Feeling a bit down by the rejections, Frank decides to head out on a cross-country trip, visiting each of his kids. This movie made me really, really sad and I sympathized with Frank so much. I loved Robert de Niro's acting, it was so effective and I really felt like I was witnessing a real story before me as they all delivered their roles perfectly.

5. Finding Nemo - What Father's Day movie won't be complete without this really cute animated film? It tells the story of the overly protective clownfish Marlin who, along with a regal tang called Dory, searches for his abducted son Nemo. Along the way Marlin learns to take risks and to let Nemo take care of himself.

6. Frailty - Let it be known that not only is this one of the most psychologically frightening film (in my opinion at least) out there, but I really think the father-son bond here is very unique, albeit disturbing. The plot focuses on the strange relationship between two young boys and their father, who believes that he has been commanded by God to kill demons.

7. Grumpy Old Men - Retired school teacher John Gustafson and former TV repairman Max Goldman have lived next door to each other in Wabasha, Minnesota for decades, but have not gotten along since childhood. With not much else to do with their boring and lonely single lives except watch television and fishing, Max and John compete and argue with each other on just about everything, and partake in pranking one another (icing the other's roof, throwing a dead fish in the other's car, etc.), interspersed with bits of Minnesota culture including ice fishing and polka music. A really funny story. So where, do you ask is the father-son element? Why, watch the movie to see for yourself :D


8. The Lovely Bones - The film adaptation of the novel by Alice Sebold really played on how deep is a father's love for his child. I was so amazed by Mark Wahlberg's acting and not just once did I shed tears for his on this film.

9. Major Payne - This is another film that does not really have a father for a character. Instead, this has a semi-neurotic Marine who was discharged from his duty and tasked to train the Junior Reserve Officer's Training Corps of a local school. I think I watched this twenty times with my father and we always had a good as if we haven't watched this yet. It was so funny!

10. Mrs. Doubtfire - I love, love, love this movie! I remember my Dad did an impersonation of the main character after we watched this film.

A Happy Father's Day to all Dads out there!

So tell me, what are your Good Things?

Quiz: Do You Know the Authors of These Books?

2011-06-19T22:31:00.001+08:00

You love reading books so much you even 'stalk' your favorite books' authors. After all, these awesome books won't even be available if their authors did not decide to write them. So as a tribute to these outstanding writers, let's do this quiz from ProProfs.com by sharonrasco.

For the fields below, just enter your desired name and any letter combination on the ID field.

Unfortunately, I only got ~~three~~ seven (I rechecked, I did not cheat, I swear!) correct! I totally have to widen the range of books I am reading.

Tell me what you got on the comment section below!

Shelf Saturday Featuring Playing.Librarian

2011-06-18T14:48:00.000+08:00

We all love our books, and we want them to have the best shelves ever. Also, this is a new way to sort of show off your book collection, along with your funky shelves.

ARGH thought fitting himself in the bookshelf will help him sleep.

For this new edition of Shelf Saturday, let me feature the book case of this blogger friend of mine, Playing.Librarian:

I was about seven years old when I first fell in love with books. It was the day I received my first school library card and was eager to use it. Lots of books, I thought. In the end I chose an Enid Blyton book, probably attracted to it because of its nice hard cover—something about a rabbit if I remember correctly. And though the book was a little too advanced for me at that time—I had just started learning English—I just loved the touch and feel of it.

When I got older I discovered that my school library had a complete collection of The Sweet Valley Twins series. I was hooked, coming back every few days or so returning and checking out more books until I read them all. And since then, I can always be seen burrowing over a book and my life has never been the same since.

But, enough of the sentimental (I tend to overly romanticize things, don’t I?)

I didn’t have a huge collection of books while growing up. Not until I earned my own money did I become a book collector—a book hoarder, if you will—and it has become an obsession, a dangerous threat to my bank account!

Here’s my bookshelf and my collection over the years. I bought it [my shelf] from IKEA and it's dark brown wood. Yeah, I’m old school like that. Looks like I’m going to run out of space soon, don’t you think?

The middle shelf at the far right is where I put my stationery and stuff I use for wrapping books and the one at the bottom with the door is where I dump every other thing in :P

I don’t really have a specific rule as far as arranging books is concerned but as much as possible I like to keep books by the same author together: I have Agatha Christie the most (12), Paul Auster (7), Jeffrey Archer (6), Kate Morton (3), Gabriel Garcia Marquez (3), Irene Nemirovsky (3), Stieg Larsson (3), Haruki Murakami (3), Carlos Ruiz Zafon and multiple in two's like Elizabeth Kostova, Jonathan Safran Foer, Wally Lamb, Jonathan Franzen, Maggie O'Farrell, Nicole Kraus, Khaled Hosseini, Jed Rubenfeld, Audrey Niffenegger…

I share this bookshelf with my hubby. While I collect books, he collects DVDs. He reads all those geeky stuffs like science, National Geographic and gadget magazines but he wouldn't tolerate any fiction at all (much to my futile coaxing)! Oh well, you know what they say, opposites attract :)

Until we could afford a bigger home with wall to wall floor-to-ceiling shelves, I guess we just have to be satisfied with this one. But a girl can dream, can’t she? And oh, I've always wanted to become a librarian (can't you tell)?

Playing.Librarian. It's so very easy to tell from your blog name itself that you would love to become a librarian. So go ahead and follow your dreams! As the cliche would say.

I am positively drooling at all the books on that shelf! After reading this post by Playing.Librarian, I went and rearranged by book shelf again. Hers look so organized and looks like everything is in the right place.

Thanks to the Sweet Valley series, a lot of readers were born. I know this book was something I also borrowed from the library and these books were the ones I practiced to read fast with.

And how many readers would agree that books pose a serious threats to our bank accounts? Because I do!

Thank you so much, Playing.Librarian for sharing your book shelf with us!

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Book Review: Across Eternity by Aris Whittier

2011-06-17T16:41:00.000+08:00

Photo taken from Goodreads

Book Info

Title: Across Eternity

Author: Aris Whittier

Language: English

Format: E-book (PDF)

Pages: 298 pages

Source: Reviewer's digital copy from the author, Aris Whittier

Buy this book on Amazon

Summary

From Goodreads

"Born a genius; education, wealth, and prestige came easy to Logan Richards. Actually, there wasn't much that Logan couldn't learn or acquire. However, he knew there was more to life than money and power. Logan was determined to find the woman who he'd dreamed of his entire life and know what it was like to love her before he died.

Amber Lewis, a waitress for a five-star restaurant in, Dana Point, California, was overworked, stressed, and wary of life since her sister, Heather, had passed away. Then, one evening while working she fell hopelessly in love with Logan Richards, a chivalrous man who felt deeply familiar.

For Amber, it was the beginning of a voyage of self-discovery and renewal. For Logan, it was the completion of life. For each of them it was the deepest sort of love."

Review

While I reading the synopsis for this book, Across Eternity by Aris Whittier, I had this slight feeling of deja vu as I thought it was highly similar to another book about reincarnation, My Name Is Memory by Ann Brashares. I was proven wrong when I began to read this book.

Across Eternity is all about two people, Logan and Amber, whose souls kept meeting every time they were reincarnated. Logan, who meets a sort of 'imaginary friend' when he was younger, was told that this friend would be following him now to the present time but she would not remember him, although he would. This 'imaginary friend' turns out to be Amber, a waitress and a very talented woman.

I was very touched by this story. It showed a unique mix of poignancy, romance, and humor. Yes, humor. Especially the part when Logan and Amber first meet. The dialogue was very captivating in that it never experienced a lull, there were no dull moments in their conversations, and you can easily recognize each character from the things they say. Each character's speech were very tailored to their personalities. The voice was solid and entertaining, and authentic. It did not try to mask any shallowness and it was very tongue-in-cheek. The story was well-paced and easy to follow that even younger readers - or those who are typically not into this book's genre - will enjoy reading this book without any pressure to keep up with this book's own speed.

There are many books out there written about romance and reincarnation. Many of them good, many are awesome, and many flopped. But Across Eternity, with its unique twists and witty dialogue will distinguish itself from all of these titles and will surely carve a niche of its own out of this giant rock that is the romance genre.

Rating

If you have any questions on this particular rating, please refer to my ratings system here.

Notice

I received this book free of charge from the author, Aris Whittier, in exchange for an honest and truthful review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Please contact me for questions, comments, and suggestions.

Nina vs. ARGH: I Am Number Four Book vs. Film Version

2011-06-15T20:54:00.000+08:00

Have you read the book, I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore? Have you watched the film adaptation too? Which did you like best? ARGH and I had trouble agreeing with this one, and so we ask you, fellow bloggers/readers/authors/AWESOME PEOPLE: Which version did you enjoy more, I Am Number Four the book, or I Am Number Four the movie?

I liked the MOVIE version better because:

Since I Am Number Four is an action-packed story, this translated well into film since we will be able to visualize every move, every moment, every nuance within the story, and the special effects will help us understand more than if we are just reading about it and letting our brain do the imagining which is sometimes just not enough.
I was not very confident about the premise of this story and paying for a movie ticket costs less than paying for the book itself that I might end up not enjoying.
I do not like reading series books because if it had a cliffhanger ending, it might drive me crazy; whereas in films, the ending is almost always clearer even if the movie has a sequel coming up, or is part of a series.
Alex Pettyfer.

On the other hand, ARGH likes the book version because:

"The film version's action scenes mostly transpired in the dark and I do not have very good night vision."
"The book is way better because I can just go open it and read it whenever I feel like it."
"I do not need a big screen to dictate to me what I should imagine when I am reading about the action scenes in this story. I have my very vivid imagination for that, thank you very much."
"We all know that movie adaptations always differ from the real version, so at least the book is a perfectly reliable source."
"I think Alex Pettyfer's all-too-chiseled facial features are scary. He looks more like a sculpture than a real person."

ARGH's views typed verbatim, hence the quotation marks.

So with whom do you agree more?

Book Review: Luna by Julie Anne Peters

2011-06-14T20:33:00.000+08:00

Photo taken from Fantastic Fiction

Book Info

Title: Luna

Author: Julie Anne Peters
Publisher: Little, Brown Books

Language: English

Format: Paperback

Pages: 145 pages

ISBN - 10: 0316011274

ISBN - 13: 978-0316011273

Source: Purchased, National Book Store

Buy this book on Amazon

Summary

From Goodreads:

"Regan's brother, Liam, can't stand the person he is during the day. Like the moon from whom Liam has chosen his female namesake, his true self, Luna, reveals herself only at night. For years, Liam has transformed himself into the beautiful girl he longs to be with the help from his sister's clothes and makeup in the secrecy of their basement bedrooms. Now, everything is about to change - Luna is preparing to emerge from her cocoon. But are Liam's family and friends ready to welcome Luna into their lives?

Compelling and provocative, this is a groundbreaking novel about a transgender teen's struggle for self-identity and acceptance."

Review

Picking this up from the store, I was not really sure what to expect in this book, Luna by Julie Anne Peters. I thought this had some fantasy/paranormal influences, I should have known better, because it turns out it's as realistic as it gets. I was initially bummed, not by the book but by my apparent ignorance, and then totally thrilled as this is definitely a unique book. Not because it's about transgenders - who are people who have this feeling of 'being born in the wrong body' unlike gays and lesbians - but it's because it's a different account of living in the shadow of homophobia, as this was written through the point of view of a person closest to the transgender.

Regan's older brother Liam seems like your typical model teenage boy: Straight A's, awesome side job, cool car, well-dressed, and quite approachable. However, during the night, he would dress up in women's clothing and revel in the femininity of his appearance as Luna, his considered 'real' personality. Regan is the only one who knows about Liam/Luna's situation, and try as she might, she can't shake off the fact that her brother is living a double life as it also consumes her daily living helping to cover up the truth, and being the only person that Liam/Luna can talk to about being transgender.

First off, the plot. I loved that it discussed something as hugely misunderstood as transgender, and that the author did not shrink from laying the truth bare about these individuals - the daily struggles, the inner turmoil, and the oppression from other people. The general misconception that they are automatically 'gay' was also touched upon, and although there were a few story-related questions bugging me by the end of the novel, it was very enlightening to read such an honest portrayal of a person in this situation. It also sent a message to teenagers, transgender or not. The message is acceptance. Acceptance of who you really are. In this case, since this is primarily Regan's story, it taught her not just acceptance of Liam's situation, but acceptance of herself as well. A lesson that the youth are very likely to overlook.

The characters were very complex but likable, especially since they are obviously flawed and damaged. Regan is farm from perfect: Dislikes change, had a hard time taking responsibility for her own actions, isolates herself from other people, and - although fairly unnoticeable - ashamed of her brother's situation. Liam on the other hand, is conflicted, while Luna is self-centered; but living in secret, what other choice does she have? However, the character I am most concerned, intrigued, and irked with was their mother. She was a mystery and I'm still confused about her intentions as regards to Liam's gender orientation.

The writing was very poignant, emotionally-charged, and lyrical. Although Regan's point of view was used to narrate the story, I did not have any difficulty distinguishing the different characters' personalities from each other. The voice was distinct and solid. I also admired that this book had some very funny moments, even during times of intense drama. A sense of humor was never taken for granted in the writing of this novel, something you would not normally expect in a story of this intensity.

The message of acceptance in this book is very touching, and teens - even older readers - will surely be captivated by the beauty and melancholy of this story.

Rating

If you have any questions on this particular rating, please refer to my ratings system here.

Notice

All opinions expressed in this book review are my own and not influenced by any party in any way.

Please contact me for questions, comments, and suggestions.

A Little Book Told Me...

2011-06-14T05:59:00.005+08:00

from The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy

10 Good Things on a Monday: Ten Fantastic Book Covers

2011-06-13T06:00:00.000+08:00

Here's how it works:

Think of a particular group of good things you want to make a list on, does not necessarily have to be about books, e.g. your current book wish list, or your favorite book foods (you know, foods you love to eat while reading, if you're like me), or your favorite girly names, whatever you can think of, as long as it makes you feel good.
If you have no ideas for a list, you can always visit my blog post to check out my theme for that week and you can take a cue from my list.
Post your list on your blog, grab that cute ARGH button above and put it on your post too, so we'd know you're doing this meme.
Leave the link for your post on my own 10 Good Things post for the week, if you see others doing it, comment too and let's share our good things with everybody.
Everybody goes through the whole week happy!

----------

My 10 Good Things for this week: Ten Fantastic Book Covers

I know, I know, I have done this so many times now, but I just can't get enough of awesome cover art! So for the nth time, a list of awesome book covers:

1. Gravity's Rainbow by Thomas Pynchon. I really do not understand what I like about this cover, but I do. I love the overall concept. That's all I can say.

2. The Blind Assassin by Margaret Atwood. I mostly see the other cover where the woman wears black, but this looks way, way better. The color and the design are more minimalist and it's really pleasing to the eye.

3. Oh, the Places You'll Go! by Dr. Seuss. I love drawings, and I love bright colors, and this is totally eye-catching for me. I could stare at this for hours!

4. Entwined by Heather Dixon. This retelling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses does not only promise a beautiful story, but also boasts a beautiful cover. I love the gown!

5. Shades of Grey by Jasper Fforde. This is by far the best cover for this book, in my opinion. I like how the colors were reduced to a minimum, and the picture really reflects the story.

6. Forgotten by Cat Patrick. Exquisite!

7. Epileptic by David B. I haven't heard of this book before, but if I were to just judge according to its cover, this is probably a bestseller!

8. Eeeee Eee Eeee by Tao Lin. The title itself is interesting, what more the cover?

9. That Salty Air by Tim Sievert. A very beautiful illustration. Apart from being as stunning book cover, this could also be a really beautiful mural.


10. Monoculture: How One Story is Changing Everything by F.S. Michaels. Bright and colorful. ARGH would approve.

Don't you just agree with me that these look fabulous? I can look at them for hours!

So tell me, what are your Good Things?

The Weekly Book Report 6/6 - 6/12/2011

2011-06-12T09:28:00.000+08:00

Missed this week's blog fun? Don't worry, because ARGH and I are here to the rescue, with The Weekly Book Report!

Book Review:

Between by Cyndi Tefft

Slice of Cherry by Dia Reeves

Bleeding Violet by Dia Reeves

Features:
Shelf Saturday Featuring Thinking Cat @ Cat's Thoughts

Follow Friday 6/10/2011

Third Sentence Thursday: Travels in the Scriptorium by Paul Auster

10 Good Things on a Monday Ten Awesome Wedding Things

Other Posts:
ARGH! An Interview with Lord Arkus from the Book, My Sparkling Misfortune by Laura Lond

Quiz: Shelving Books Like Librarians

Books Received:

Purchased:
Luna by Julie Anne Peters
Wide Awake by David Levithan

From the Author:

Across Eternity by Aris Whittier

Currently Reading: Forget You by Jennifer Echols

Have a great new week!

Shelf Saturday Featuring Thinking Cat @ Cat's Thoughts

2011-06-11T09:16:00.001+08:00

We all love our books, and we want them to have the best shelves ever. Also, this is a new way to sort of show off your book collection, along with your funky shelves.

ARGH thought fitting himself in the bookshelf will help him sleep.

For this new edition of Shelf Saturday, let me feature the book case of this blogger friend of mine, Thinking Cat @Cat's Thoughts:

I have been a reader all my life - my mother swears that she read to me before I was even born, and honestly, I believe it. I have boxes and boxes of books that I've just never been able to let go of, and sadly I don't have infinite display space in my house to have them all out, so my shelves only hold my recent/grown up books.

When my husband and I first started living together, it was in a really small one bedroom apartment, and there was no space for bookshelves - we had a lot of stuff between the two of us! When we moved into our house, I'm not kidding, the only furniture we needed to buy was bookshelves!

My favorite thing about my shelves is that they can be customized however I want them! They're from IKEA and the style has been around forever, and they have a ton of fun add-ons so you can do whatever you want!

On the shelf in the middle, I have a door for example, which is an awesome place to hide my clutter.

Oh, and as you can see, there's a very complicated organization system (ie - chaotic) in place - but that pile on the floor in the front is my "read soonest" pile - either because they're borrowed from the library or friends, or they're recent purchases that I don't want to get lost in the shuffle until I finish reading them.

All in all, my shelves are my little corner of organized chaos - I can find anything I want within seconds, but most people look at it and just go "HUH???"

Thanks for including me!

I totally get what you're talking about when you said that your shelves are your little corner of organized chaos, Cat! It's that way with mine too - and it's a small shelf at that, other people would get confused in finding a particular book, but I can get it even with my eyes closed.

Again, my jaw dropped when I saw the number of books in your collection, I can see some very familiar titles, and can also spot some that I have been coveting since day one. Oh drool, drool!

And I wonder what magic - or mayhem lie behind that mysterious shelf door. I thought of hundreds of possible stories for that door of yours, it's total writing gold!

Thank you so much for sharing your shelves, Cat!

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&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Loading...&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Follow Friday 6/10/2011

2011-06-10T21:45:00.000+08:00

Friday is upon us again, and here in another edition of Follow Friday by Parajunkee's Views is a pretty interesting question that we all need to answer. This week's question is:

Q. The magic book fairy pops out of your cereal box and says "you and your favorite character (from a book of course) can switch places!" Who are you going to switch with?

If you have been following me for quite some time now, you would know that I have this sort-of-crush on Dash from Dash and Lily's Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan, who's also my YA book hero. So it follows that I would LOVE to switch places with Lily! I also think her family is quite interesting, and it would be really great to take care of a dog again as my own dog had died years ago. And Aunt Ida is such a charming character, I would love to finally meet her as I had this urge to hug her when I was reading about her in the book.

And Dash. Dash! I would be making snarky comments with him, eating frozen yogurt with him, reading the dictionary with him (he has no idea how much alike we are). But I only have one question: Would I be in my age now, or would I also be the same age as Lily is? Since I don't know if Dash would like a relationship with an older woman (hee).

However, I don't think my life would be much in Lily's eyes. I have my brother, who never messes with me and gets into a fight with me. I have my day job as a nurse - which might be interesting for Lily although she might get a little too tired, although would she be allowed to work in my place since she doesn't have my qualifications? Well, if she won't be permitted to work in my stead, then she'll definitely find my life totally boring.

*****

This Friday's Question:

YA Saves: How do you feel about the "dark" books

filling the YA shelves today?

I don't mind dark. Really. Because I had such a 'normal' (read: boring and predictable) teenage life that reading about tumultuous young adult lives fascinate me. If you notice, most of the young adult books I own are contemporaries since I really like reading about real life, instead of made-up worlds - except if the made-up world is totally cool and suits my crazy taste. 'Dark' books take me into a world that shows there are people out there who do not have it easy like I did, and it helps me be more compassionate and understanding with other people, especially as in my line of work, I need to be constantly looking out for my patients. I used to be a psych nurse so I am naturally drawn to books with mental illness, mental health problems which helped me understand more about the disorders that I encountered. Even now that I have moved on to a different practice as a nurse, I still find these 'dark' books helpful, especially in dealing with teenage patients who are very difficult to get through especially after very traumatic incidences.

The only thing that concerns me is the poor choice of book selections that some bookstores carry. It's not the book's fault that it's dark and/or violent. That's not the only book out there. There are some light-hearted and morally-correct YA books too, it's just that maybe that particular book store did not choose to carry those titles since they know that paranormal and dark novels are all the rage now and more likely to sell. To the mother who could not find a suitable book for her child, I would have asked her, "Why didn't you visit other book stores instead of immediately stereotyping the genre?"

*****

So that's it, I hope you all have a great weekend, and happy reading to everyone!

Book Review: Between by Cyndi Tefft

2011-06-10T06:05:00.001+08:00

Photo taken from Goodreads

Book Info

Title: Between

Author: Cyndi Tefft
Publisher: CreateSpace

Language: English

Format: E-book (PDF)

Pages: 140 pages

Source: Reviewer's digital copy from the author, Cyndi Tefft

Buy this book on Amazon

Summary

From Goodreads

"It just figures that the love of Lindsey Water's life isn't alive at all, but the grim reaper, complete with a dimpled smile and Scottish accent.

After transporting souls to heaven for the last 300 years, Aiden MacRae has all but given up on finding the one whose love will redeem him and allow him entry through the pearly gates.

Torn between her growing attraction to Aiden and heaven's siren song, Lindsey must learn the hard way whether love really can transcend all boundaries."

Review

Between by Cyndi Tefft would have been just a typical love story if it weren't for the twists and turns that this novel take. Ms. Tefft has certainly done a great job creating a beautiful, touching, emotional, and engaging book that not just talks about love in the emotional and romantic sense, but also in the spiritual.

Between is the story of Lindsey, who gets into a car accident and finds herself with a mysterious handsome Scott, Aiden MacRae, whose job as a transporter is to take the dead souls to heaven. But instead of taking her to heaven straightaway, the two fall in love.

I did not like Lindsey at first. She appeared flat and more caricature-like, until she revealed her memories to Aiden and gave the readers the opportunity to get to know her deeper. When I finally understood her, it was with a happy acceptance and somehow, I saw bits of myself in her. I guess everyone would, as there is a little of Lindsey in all of us. She has this ability to make the best in every situation, an admirable trait in a person who has experienced probably the most traumatic event in his/her life.

Like Lindsey, I feared that I would not like the story much. It sounded too predictable and exhausted. However, as I got to read more I found myself really getting into the book and loving the characters and feeling as they felt. The twists and turns that this novel too were unrealistically realistic that for a moment, I sympathized so much with Lindsey and even found myself tearing up in the oddest times. The plot was very simple, but this simplicity was what made it more alive and vivid; on the other hand, the turn of events provided the complexity that this story needed and which sustained the reader's interest.

Fair bit of warning, though: This book contained a lot of Christian references, if only because of Lindsey's faith. Of course, you can't talk about death without dealing with the spiritual ideals and in my opinion, Ms. Tefft certainly did a great job in handling this part of the premise with finesse and understanding. She did not just insert these religious attributes for the sake of talking the readers into converting or anything like that, she mentioned Christianity in a way that a person talks about going to the doctor when you're sick - she's not telling you to accept and do the same, but just letting you know the options. If you're a stickler for spiritual neutrality, then you might want to steer clear from this book, although I'd still appeal to you to give this book a chance, it might just surprise you.

Overall, I loved Between by Cyndi Tefft. I loved the harmonious mix of the spiritual and emotional to create this special, well-written novel.

Rating

If you have any questions on this particular rating, please refer to my ratings system here.

Notice

I received this book free of charge from the author, Cyndi Tefft, in exchange for an honest and truthful review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Please contact me for questions, comments, and suggestions.

Third Sentence Thursday: Travels in the Scriptorium by Paul Auster

2011-06-09T21:28:00.000+08:00

Third Sentence Thursday is a weekly meme which waits with bated breath for third sentences from all over the world!

1) Take the book you are reading now and post the third sentence
2) Review this sentence anyway you want (funny and silly reviews encouraged)
3) Post a link to your sentence here (in the comments) or if you don't have a blog, just post it in the comments!

This week, my Third Sentence is from this book that I picked up out of curiosity and because I thought the cover was strangely interesting. Travels in the Scriptorium is the first book I have read from Paul Auster and you will soon know what I think about it in my book review.

"We were well into the season of white suits by then, but the air that day had been especially hot, bearing down with such stifling heaviness that even the thinnest clothing felt excessive" -page 70

Review: It's hot, hot, hot! That's how it felt here in the Philippines in the past few weeks, with summer in full force and scorching the country, turning everyone into a delightful shade of golden brown. But now, rainy season is officially here and it's been raining all day for a couple of days now. So white suits are out now, and in with colorful umbrellas and jackets.

Quiz: Shelving Books Like Librarians Do

2011-06-08T18:42:00.000+08:00

Have you ever wondered if you could become a librarian? Well, I certainly did, and I even imagined myself being opposite every librarian stereotype there is: loud, talkative to visitors - recommending every book the library has, will read forever instead of vigilantly watching out for noisemakers, and organizing the whole library by color - they certainly have enough books to hold every color in the spectrum, right?

So to explore the odds of us being a really awesome librarian/non-librarian, I grabbed this quiz over at ProProfs.com by mebb. It's not so much as a holistic librarian test, it just explores one aspect: Shelving. Fairly easy, right? Especially for those with compulsive organizing behaviors :D Like uh, me?

Remember to tell me your results! Mine was a whopping:

Wow. 'Didn't know I had it in me :D

Book Review: Slice of Cherry by Dia Reeves

2011-06-08T06:07:00.000+08:00

Photo taken from Goodreads

Book Info

Title: Slice of Cherry

Author: Dia Reeves
Publisher: Simon Pulse

Language: English

Format: Hardcover

Pages: 512 pages

ISBN - 13: 978-1416986201

Source: Purchased, Fully Booked

Buy this book on Amazon

Summary

From Goodreads:

"Kit and Fancy Cordelle are sisters of the best kind: best friends, best confidantes, and best accomplices. The daughters of the infamous Bonesaw Killer, Kit and Fancy are used to feeling like outsiders, and that’s just the way they like it. But in Portero, where the weird and wild run rampant, the Cordelle sisters are hardly the oddest or most dangerous creatures around.

It’s no surprise when Kit and Fancy start to give in to their deepest desire—the desire to kill. What starts as a fascination with slicing open and stitching up quickly spirals into a gratifying murder spree. Of course, the sisters aren’t killing just anyone, only the people who truly deserve it. But the girls have learned from the mistakes of their father, and know that a shred of evidence could get them caught. So when Fancy stumbles upon a mysterious and invisible doorway to another world, she opens a door to endless possibilities…"

Review

First of all, this book is not a part of a series. This is another Twisted novel by Dia Reeves, in which Bleeding Violet was the first Twisted book. That's where the connection ends. Reading this book was like reading a psychotic's version of Alice in Wonderland. It was definitely crazier than the first book.

Slice of Cherry by Dia Reeves stood out against other books with its unique premise. You rarely see protagonists acting like the bad guys. Most books that feature a 'villainous' main character mostly show their inner kindness, but this book, with its sticky-sweet but deadly heroes refused to strike a balance between the good and the bad, and just told the story as is, the brutal truth unsettling but fascinating. Kit and Fancy Cordelle were sisters whose murderous tendencies they let shine through when Fancy discovers a door that will let them hide every evidence of their crimes. However, they only kill the 'bad guys' and try to help in improving their community, as opposed to the merciless and inconceivable rampage their father, the Bonesaw Killer, enjoyed that led to his imprisonment and imminent execution.

I know that comparing this to Bleeding Violet is unfair as they are two different books. But it is strikingly clear that what made Bleeding Violet such an awesome read was because of its characters. On the other hand, Slice of Cherry in my opinion will be distinguished by its plot.

Fancy and Kit were not as strong characters as Hannah from Bleeding Violet was. Fancy was too whiny and though most of the story was seen through her point of view, I disagreed a lot with her and cannot get into her. Usually, I absorb the points of view of characters whose thoughts are mirrored in the narration. In her case, I had difficulty doing that and got irritated with her actions more than once. Kit was a bit too lukewarm. The more interesting character among them for me was Ilan. He provided much of the humor, and this sense of wholeness that was not too felt from the other characters, especially the sisters. Gabriel, on the other hand, was just too flat.

Character problems aside, the premise was very intriguing. It was like reading the Dexter series by Jeffrey Lindsey, only younger, girlier, and more twisted. The plot was what attracted me to this book in the first place and although I did not agree much with every character, I was still mesmerized by the flow of the story. The strange occurrences, the 'door,' it made me admire Ms. Reeves more as I delved more into her imagination. And although her main aim is to just tell a good story, I think she managed to leave a few lessons along the way without the reader consciously noticing.

You know the best part of the book that I liked? It's the cover. It totally speaks to me and looks exactly as what I thought about this book. It really spoke volumes about the ingenuity of this book and the strange, unique, but fantastic story contained within.

Rating

If you have any questions on this particular rating, please refer to my ratings system here.

Notice

All opinions expressed in this book review are my own and not influenced by any party in any way.

Please contact me for questions, comments, and suggestions.

ARGH! An Interview with Lord Arkus from the Book, My Sparkling Misfortune by Laura Lond

2011-06-07T05:59:00.000+08:00

First of all, let me just assure you that no monsters and/or villains were harmed during this interview.

Next, I would just like all of you to know that it was ARGH who insisted in doing this interview with the famed villain Lord Arkus of My Sparkling Misfortune fame, therefore, should there have been traumatic incidences that occurred during the interview, I am in no way liable.

That said, I'm letting ARGH take the wheel now and I hope you like our beloved monster's first foray into journalism. Enjoy!

Come on, Nina, don't you have any faith in me? I know how to handle this, I keep telling you that. Lord Arkus is not dangerous, and besides, all questions I ask him are screened by the ever-present author, Laura Lond, who assures me Lord Arkus cannot hunt me down.

So, hello dear readers! I am ARGH. But you already know that. Well, I'm here to present to you the awesomest character interview in the history of character interviews because Lord Arkus, villain of all villains, the blackest of hearts, and the soulless of all soulless has graced this blog with his presence as he submits himself to an interview and promises not to hit me.

You don't happen to slay monsters, do you?

No, no need to worry. That’s heroic stuff, I don’t do that.

Can you tell us something about yourself that nobody knows?

But as soon as I tell you, everyone will know. So there’s no point.

So you're a villain, can you tell us how that feels?

It’s fun in many ways, you get to set your own rules. But if you are considering this path, I must warn you that villainy is a lonely profession. And you have to always watch your back.

Most villains have a history of how they became a villain. Can you give us a background on how you came to be?

Well, I am not usually open to sharing personal things like that, in fact I guard my early history, but I suppose there’s no harm if your readers know -- after all, it’s not likely that they make their way into my realm and start talking. So I’ll reveal some of it. I had chosen this fine profession when, as a very young man, I had lost a close friend, and on top of that found myself accused of things I had not done. I figured it was not worth it to try to prove them all wrong -- and I enjoyed their fear of me. So I had embraced this path and proceeded to earn my reputation of a villain.

When did you decide to write your life story? And what was your aim?

I thought it was about time a villain had his say. Have you noticed how villains are usually portrayed in books? More like props to move the story along rather than real characters. They are rarely heard or given a chance, they are often misrepresented and underestimated. The latter is fine with me, because when I turn out to be smarter than someone thought, I win. But the overall situation is, well, rather offensive. I thought a book like mine might help to set the record straight.

What are three things that make you most happy?

That would be getting even with enemies, getting even with enemies, and getting even with enemies.

What are books that you love to read?

I like adventure, preferably with sword fights. And of course a respectable villain in the story is always a plus.

I noticed that instead of your name, this book you wrote carries Laura Lond's name. Do you know her? And why not your name?

This is something I hope to straighten out someday. Ms. Lond helped to make my book available in your world; I had agreed to it since I did not know how to do it myself, but I had no idea she would put her name on it! If she was a man, I would have challenged her to a duel.

What can we expect from Lord Arkus in the future? Any plans to conquer the United States?

Luckily for the United States, I reside in a different realm, so the answer is no. But you do have something to look forward to: I am working on a sequel to My Sparkling Misfortune. It will be titled My Royal Pain Quest.

Would you be interested in having a monster in your employ? I'm not paid much for this book blogging job.

Can you roar and look scary? Those would be the primary qualifications. I do have goblins and other scary things in Arkusville, and there’s always room for more.

-----
Thank you so much, Lord Arkus for answering my questions, and for not hurting me! I enjoyed being in the presence of such villainy and greatness, I was really itching to join his army. Unfortunately, though, I could not roar, and try as I might, I will never look scary. What with my spongy body and overall cuteness, I am doomed to look cute forever. So goodbye, badass monster dreams. But I am glad that I finally have an awesome villain friend, they're so difficult to find these days.

Book Review: Bleeding Violet by Dia Reeves

2011-06-06T18:05:00.001+08:00

Photo taken from Goodreads

Book Info

Title: Bleeding Violet

Author: Dia Reeves
Publisher: Simon Pulse

Language: English

Format: Paperback

Pages: 480 pages

ISBN - 13: 978-1416986195

Source: Purchased, National Book Store

Buy this book on Amazon

Summary

From Goodreads:

"Love can be a dangerous thing...

Hanna simply wants to be loved. With a head plagued by hallucinations, a medicine cabinet full of pills, and a closet stuffed with frilly, violet dresses, Hanna's tired of being the outcast, the weird girl, the freak. So she runs away to Portero, Texas in search of a new home.

But Portero is a stranger town than Hanna expects. As she tries to make a place for herself, she discovers dark secrets that would terrify any normal soul. Good thing for Hanna, she's far from normal. As this crazy girl meets an even crazier town, only two things are certain: Anything can happen and no one is safe.'

Review

Chief Complaint:

1. Mental illness
2. Cold and distant mother
3. Mysterious and monstrous events and creatures

History of Present Illness:

The patient, Hannah Jarvinen, is a transy - a newcomer - in Portero, her mother's hometown. For years, her mother had seemed like a myth to her, and now, she's with her, but does not seem to care. Her mental instability does not help either, as her hallucinations worsen. But stranger things are happening in Portero, and Hannah is eager to prove she can fit in, mental illness or not, mysterious and deadly creatures notwithstanding.

Assessment:

Bleeding Violet by Dia Reeves is quite a story! The line between sanity and insanity is blurred and masked together - quite brutally, I might add - to create such a disturbing, yet brightly riveting book. Although I'm not a fan of the fantasy/paranormal genre, this novel completely blew me away.

The plot was very exciting, how many times have you read a book about a person who hallucinates, but whose real world is teeming with even stranger occurrences than what she sees in her head? It was very engaging, as Hannah bordered between sarcasm and utter sweetness. Her voice, however, was somewhat flat if a bit brutal, but that is to be expected from a person suffering from a mental illness, which actually lent a more authentic feel to the story. The melodramatic way with which all the characters act also serve to emphasize the peculiarity of the setting and the situations that they encounter.

Therefore, I am diagnosing this book as:

1. Crazy awesome, stage V
2. Emotionally unemotional.
3. Lingering in your thoughts, status post reading the book, for at least a week.

Recommendation: Read this book at your own risk, and prepared to be amazed.

Rating

If you have any questions on this particular rating, please refer to my ratings system here.

Notice

All opinions expressed in this book review are my own and not influenced by any party in any way.

Please contact me for questions, comments, and suggestions.

10 Good Things on a Monday: Ten Awesome Wedding Stuff You Should Check Out

2011-06-06T05:52:00.008+08:00

Here's how it works:

Think of a particular group of good things you want to make a list on, does not necessarily have to be about books, e.g. your current book wish list, or your favorite book foods (you know, foods you love to eat while reading, if you're like me), or your favorite girly names, whatever you can think of, as long as it makes you feel good.
If you have no ideas for a list, you can always visit my blog post to check out my theme for that week and you can take a cue from my list.
Post your list on your blog, grab that cute ARGH button above and put it on your post too, so we'd know you're doing this meme.
Leave the link for your post on my own 10 Good Things post for the week, if you see others doing it, comment too and let's share our good things with everybody.
Everybody goes through the whole week happy!

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My 10 Good Things for this week: Ten Awesome Wedding Stuff You Should Check Out

It's June now! Officially six months of 2011 has already passed, and you know what? It's now the time of June weddings! So what better 10 Good Things than stuff about weddings right?

1. Invitation off a book page. What book lover would not love this invite? Unfortunately, I do not have the source for this photo anymore, but if you do, let me know. This looks so awesome!

2. Wedding Blog. Style Me Pretty must be the best wedding resource site out there. I love the pictures, the ideas you can get from the weddings posted there, and there are a lot of wedding vendors you can contact from their blog. You can also share your own wedding, or one that you organized, and let the whole world know how awesome your wedding was!

3. Don't these shoes look so pretty? If you're the type of bride who does not want to stick with white shoes but not comfortable with wearing brightly-colored shoes, why not try this beaded ones from norakaren?

4. Bridal Gown. This dress from Rosa Clara shows sleek, clean, modern lines - which I am really fond of. It really exhibits simplicity and innocence while still retaining class and elegance.

5. Wondering what special drink you can serve on your wedding day? Why not try Marital Bliss? Check out Martha Stewart Weddings to prepare this yourself. Who knows, drinking this might actually make you enjoy marital bliss with your better half.

6. Wedding Movie. I know, Sabrina starring Audrey Hepburn, Humphrey Bogart, and William Holden is not exactly a movie about weddings, unlike The Wedding Planner or My Bestfriend's Wedding, but someone does intend to get married in this film, and the story is very simple and romantic, and the fashion, the FASHION is just so stunning!

7. Wedding Music. Marry Me by Train sounds so sweet. Can't say anything else.

8. Silver-gray Suit. As I said, I love modern, clean, simple lines. And that extends to men's suits. This suit looks particularly dashing in itself and would surely lend some elegance to any wedding.

9. Wedding Color for 2011: Honeysuckle. Yes, it's the year for this reddish-pink hue, and I do agree that this is a really great wedding color. After all, I love pink! The thing is, pink is not always pretty when used in weddings, especially those bubblegum pink dresses that bridesmaids wear that make them look like a huge ball of cotton candy. Honeysuckle is more classy, and more vibrant than just ordinary pink.

10. Wedding DIY. Would you believe, this is a 'just add ice' ice cream? From the Style Me Pretty blog, this awesome ice cream in a jar is not just great for weddings, but for almost every special occasion. Head on over to the Style Me Pretty blog and check out how to do your own ice cream in a jar!

So how about you? Care to share your Good Things?

The Weekly Book Report 5/30 - 6/5/2011

2011-06-05T11:54:00.000+08:00

Missed this week's blog fun? Don't worry, because ARGH and I are here to the rescue, with The Weekly Book Report!

Book Review:

Travels in the Scriptorium by Paul Auster

Solid by Shelley Workinger

The Mountains Bow Down by Sibella Giorello

Features:

Shelf Saturday featuring Laura Lond, Author of My Sparkling Misfortune

Follow Friday 6/4/2011

A Little Book Told Me: Quote from The Rainmaker by John Grisham

10 Good Things on a Monday Ten Careers for Book Lovers

Other Posts:

Quiz: The Ultimate Twilight Saga Quiz

About a Book in Four Pictures: Bandits by LM Preston
A Call to All Aspiring Filipino Writers
A Surprise Makes My Monday Triple Awesome!

Books Received:

Purchased:

The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon

From the Author:

     Across Eternity by Aris Whittier

Sent by Blogger (RAK):
   Hate List by Jennifer Brown
     Forget You by Jennifer Echols
     Wherever Nina Lies by Lynn Weingarten

Currently Reading: The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath

Have a great new week!

Shelf Saturday Featuring Laura Lond, Author of My Sparkling Misfortune

2011-06-04T10:12:00.000+08:00

We all love our books, and we want them to have the best shelves ever. Also, this is a new way to sort of show off your book collection, along with your funky shelves.

ARGH tried fitting himself in a bookshelf but had a hard time doing it. Big guy learned his lesson :D

Last week there was no Shelf Saturday, so to make up for that, I'm going to show you something different, this time we're featuring a 'Kindle shelf' and my newest favorite author, Laura Lond, was very happy to share the books on her Kindle for us to check out and drool over :D

Remember Laura Lond? She's the awesome author of the book, My Sparkling Misfortune, whose main character, the villanous villain, Lord Arkus of Blackriver Castle will be interviewed by none other than ARGH. Watch out for that here!

Laura also wrote another set of books, The Adventures of Jecosan Tarres trilogy.

What are your most favorite books among those on your Kindle?

The Riyria Revelations fantasy series by Michael J. Sullivan and the Elfhunter trilogy by C.S. Marks. I was very fortunate to have come across these books, they are exactly the type of fantasy I enjoy.

The Riyria Revelations series

Elfhunter trilogy

How many books are in your collection?

Over forty right now. I’ve only had my Kindle since Christmas. My collection is growing fast though.

What is one unique feature of a Kindle that you are most proud of?

I love how the book is instantly there when I purchase it from Amazon. No shipping, no waiting - just one click, and I can open my Kindle and start reading.

Do you have a reason why you prefer reading on an e-reader than traditional print books?

I actually thought I wouldn’t like an e-reader, I loved paper books so much. But when I tried it, I was sold. It is convenient, easy to use, and I can have hundreds of books in it without cluttering the house. Ebooks are also cheaper, too.

Even though I am more of a print-books person, I agree that nothing beats the convenience that e-books give us. And yes, it lessens the clutter.

Thank you so much for sharing your Kindle shelf with us, Laura!

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Follow Friday 6/4/2011

2011-06-04T06:53:00.000+08:00

Friday is upon us again, and here in another edition of Follow Friday by Parajunkee's Views is a pretty interesting question that we all need to answer. But before that question, let me show you the featured blog for this week:

Amy from BackseatReader

And for the question:

Q. What are you doing to prepare for an upcoming zombie apocalypse and/or the return of Mel Gibson to the silver screen? (Both of which could be terrifying.)

Since we're living in a building, I can't break the stairs to prevent the zombies from reaching us. I plan to talk to the other people living here to cooperate. We will destroy all the stairs until the fourth floor to keep them from reaching us and we will live in the upper levels of the building. We have baseball bats and mallets on hand and will be getting some firearms soon. We'll plant vegetables on plant beds on the rooftop to sustain our food supply and will also plant lots and lots of cactus for water supply.

As for Mel Gibson's return, I never watch television anyway, and I choose my movies carefully :D

This is a really hilarious question on Follow Friday, right? It's amusing to read everybody's answers!

A great weekend to everyone!

Book Review: Solid by Shelley Workinger

2011-06-02T21:50:00.000+08:00

Photo taken from Goodreads

Book Info

Title: Solid

Author: Shelley Workinger
Publisher: CreateSpace

Language: English

Format: E-book (PDF)

Pages: 236 pages

ISBN - 10: 1453624821

ISBN - 13: 978-1453624821
Source: Reviewer's digital copy from the author, Shelley Workinger

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Summary

From Goodreads

"Teens who discover they were secretly genetically altered before birth are brought together at a classified site where they forge new friendships, find love, develop "super-abilities," and even unearth a conspiracy."

Review

A very fast read that I was able to finish in a day, Solid by Shelley Workinger tells the story of Clio, a teenager struggling to become normal, only to discover she has been genetically altered way before her birth, without her family knowing it. Placed in a camp with other similarly-fated teens, she not just uncovers a big conspiracy, but also finds real, lasting friendship, and a sense of belongingness.

This story was very fast-paced, engaging , and precise. The narration is very straight to the point and carried with it an undertone of urgency, as if reading this slowly - even putting this down - will have dire consequences to the outcome of the story. Although it starts as a seemingly ordinary teen story, this will not turn the reader off as there are some very interesting events that will catch the reader's attention. The voice - Clio's voice - was very authentic and believable, it was like actually listening to Clio tell you her story. Through her voice, we were able to learn about the other characters, the significant events, and the rather strange circumstances that she and her friends encounter. Clio's friends, for that matter, were also very interesting and alive. The author captured the reader's attention with very colorful descriptions of the characters, that after being introduced it's as if they have really come alive. What's more interesting to note was that although they were very different from each other, as a group they were very good together and I think every teenager will find a little of themselves in every personality from the book.

Reading the plot, one would think that it would be as complicated as say, that of the X-Men. But let me assure you that although this may have the same excitement as that of the famed comic book, the premise is lighter, less complex, but much easier to accept. In a way, it was funny to read about special abilities that aptly suited teenagers' behaviors like wanting to be unnoticed and blend in, standing out and becoming popular, and showing exceptional skills in particular areas.

This book is not like your typical superhero books where it tells you that everything is possible if you just believe in it, or that "With great power comes great responsibility." In my opinion, one of this book's messages is to accept yourself, whatever your flaws may be, and to know that it's all right to ask for other people's help. Which are things that most young adults - even real adults - seem to have difficulty grasping. And for that, this book is something that should be read by everyone, not just the teenagers, and not just those fascinated with special abilities.

Rating

If you have any questions on this particular rating, please refer to my ratings system here.

Notice

I received this book free of charge from the author, Shelley Workinger, in exchange for an honest and truthful review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Please contact me for questions, comments, and suggestions.

About a Book in Four Pictures: Bandits by LM Preston

2011-06-02T06:18:00.001+08:00

Today, I am featuring a book that's released today, one that I have previously reviewed on this blog. That book is Bandits by LM Preston.

Unfortunately, I could not make pictures of my own this time, and resorted to using some from the internet. Photo credits will be shown below.

Photo taken from Tofslie

Photo taken from TopTenz

Photo taken from Toys1

Photo taken from Dialersus

I do not want to give away too much of the plot, but from the pictures themselves, you know that this story is filled with adventure, right? And it is, as I mentioned in my review, this book could also be made into a video game. It's that exciting.

Check out this book now!

My book review for Bandits by LM Preston

Awesome Author Interview with LM Preston

LM Preston's Official Website

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Loving the plot? Go get yourself a copy from these stores:

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Quiz: The Ultimate Twilight Saga

2011-06-01T19:22:00.000+08:00

Okay, I will now finally admit to you: There are three book series in the world that I have not yet read, ever. The Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins, Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling, and The Lord of the RingsTwilight series by Stephenie Mayer I have finished every book, except the novella about Bree Tanner. Why? You ask me, when I do not even like series books, let alone paranormal fiction, and especially vampires? It is because of the pure and simple reason that I did not have anything better to do. by J.R.R. Tolkien.

You see, I read the complete series at work. My first job was not as a nurse, I was working as a 'glorified typist' who reviewed medical records day in and day out. I sat in front of the computer and typed eight to sixteen hours in a day, five days a week. There were times when I would get really bored and tired with what I was doing and my wrists would ache and shake with all the typing I did. So one day, I found this folder on my computer (which was also used by other employees) that contained all these digital books and one of them was the Twilight series. I read them all, and I was able to finish them in one week, while keeping ahead of my deadlines. Reading books energized me, even though what I read was not something I was totally into.

Word of caution though: Never, ever, ever do what I did, it might get you fired.

I later learned that those books belonged to my boss.

Again, thank you to ProProfs.com and Twilight Obsessed for this quiz!

And don't forget to share your result! As for mine, well it's safe to say that I failed, despite my reading the complete series. :D

Book Review: The Mountains Bow Down by Sibella Giorello

2011-06-01T06:24:00.001+08:00

Photo taken from Booksneeze

Book Info

Title: The Mountains Bow Down

Author: Sibella Giorello

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Language: English

Format: Paperback

Pages: 384 pages

ISBN-13: 978-1595545350

Source: Publisher, Booksneeze

Buy this book on Amazon

Summary

From Booksneeze:

"Everything’s going to work out. Time away always makes things better . . .

That’s what FBI Special Agent Raleigh Harmon believes as she boards a cruise to Alaska. A land of mountains and gems and minerals, the Last Frontier is a dream destination for this forensic geologist who's hoping to leave behind a hectic work schedule and an engagement drained of romance.

But when a passenger goes missing and winds up dead, Raleigh's vacation suddenly gets lost at sea. The ship's security chief tries to rule the death a suicide, but Raleigh’s forensics background points to a much darker conclusion: Somewhere onboard, a ruthless murderer walks free.

Engulfed by one of her toughest cases yet, Raleigh requests assistance from the FBI and receives her nemesis—handsome Special Agent Jack Stephanson. As the cruise ship sails through the Inside Passage, Raleigh has five days to solve a high-profile murder, provide consultation for a movie filming onboard, and figure out her increasingly complicated feelings for Jack—who might not be as arrogant as she originally thought.

And that's only her work life. Family offers even more challenges. Joined on the cruise by her mother and aunt, Raleigh watches helplessly as disturbing rifts splinter her family.

Like the scenery that surrounds the cruise ship, Raleigh discovers a mystery so daunting that even the mountains might bow down before it."

Review

I believe that the best Christian fiction are those that teach you something without coming off as preachy and holier-than-thou. This book, The Mountains Bow Down by Sibella Giorello, is a perfect example of a Christian-oriented novel that subtly blends fiction with Christianity. The story is about Raleigh Harmon, a workaholic FBI agent who goes on a vacation (sort of) and gets on a cruise, only to find herself caught in the middle of a mysterious death of another passenger that she stubbornly insists is not just a simple case of suicide, despite popular belief.

Fast-paced, riveting, and emotionally-charged, this story will take the reader to an intense ride through an Alaskan cruise, following Raleigh as she struggles to work out the mysterious death of a co-passenger, the worsening rift in her family, and the disconcerting presence of former rival and now co-investigator for the passenger's death Special Agent Jack Stephanson.

Raleigh seems to be the woman every girl wants to grow up to be: Beautiful, brave, intelligent, and strong. However, what a young girl does not know is that every woman has her share of problems, and Raleigh's in particular, is very heavy. This story shows that beneath her seemingly perfect facade is a cracked mirror that she tries hard to stop from shattering. This emotionally-charged book explores a person's faith in faith, that when everything seems impossible, it is the time when God's presence is felt the most.

But far from the very serious tone of the synopsis and theme, this book is full of humorous quips and observations, contributed by the various characters all equally vivid and realistic. Each person affects the story in no small way, every action and dialogue contributing to the tumultuous ending. Reading about each character, the reader will feel like he/she has known that person personally, like that character is standing right in front of you and addressing you instead of the other person that he/she is supposed to be interacting with in the book.

Raleigh's voice is consistent with her personality and the flow of her story. She gives a fast-paced account of her adventure and reflects constantly about her actions. We understand that she is a very introspective person. And we also learn that far from being the woman who has an answer to everything, we see how vulnerable she is. This significant aspect of the book is what allows the Christian values and lessons to peek through the pages, without sounding too self-righteous, even a non-believer would approve.

If you are tired of the usual suspense thriller fare offered by other contemporary writers that seem to have 'less soul,' I highly recommend that you read this book. It has every element that an exciting thriller novel has, but this offers more: heart, soul, and faith.

Rating

If you have any questions on this particular rating, please refer to my ratings system here.

Notice

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Please contact me for questions, comments, and suggestions.