Posts
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Left Neglected by Lisa Genova
I was a HUGE fan of Still Alice (still am). When I saw that Lisa Genova had written a new novel Left Neglected I knew it would be good and I had to have it. I would still consider Still Alice my favorite of the two, but I loved this novel as well.
Sarah Nickerson doesn't have time to slow down. She works 60-80 hours a week, is married, and raises three kids. She isn't complaining. She loves her job and her family. Her lifelong ambition has put her right where she wants to be - great husband, great kids, promising career, house in the best neighborhood, house in the mountains. Life takes a major turn, however, when she is trying to juggle a work call while driving in the rain and is in a serious car accident. This accident leaves her with a brain injury that requires her to look at the world differently. Not because she wants to, but literally because she sees it in a new way - without the left side. She has a brain injury called Left Neglect and can no longer see or process anything to her left. In her fight to heal Sarah gets a fresh look at life and what's important. She finds herself healing more than her brain as she re-thinks her fast paced life and comes to terms with her relationship with her mother.
Left Neglected was engrossing, educational, emotional, and moving. In today's fast paced world most of us can relate to Sarah. We may or may not be working 60-80 hours a week, but job and family demands still keep us over-scheduled. I wish I could say I have never messed with my phone while driving, but that would be a lie. After reading this it has been much easier to make the decision to keep the phone tucked in my purse while driving. I keep myself listening to audio books and use driving as me time. Anyway, too many of us in search of "the good life" move fast and don' t slow down enough to enjoy life and our loved ones. And, unfortunately, most of us never even realize it. Left Neglected makes you reexamine the way we live our lives. It teaches us to appreciate the moments and to look at now instead of always reaching for tomorrow.
While reading I kept thinking that Sarah moved faced and dreamed big so she could forget about the pain of her past. Her brother drowned when she was a child and she and the rest of her family never really healed. This brings us to the relationship between Sarah and her mother, Helen, or rather the lack of one. Helen shut off after her son died and Sarah never really felt she had a mother. After the Sarah's car accident Helen rushes to be with her, but Sarah can't fathom why her nonexistent mother would suddenly want to be around let alone help. The novel does a great job of exploring depression and familial relationships after a loss. The story line drew me in and made me root for healing. Sarah's changed state puts her in a place to understand and know her mother in a way she never thought possible. They struggled to deal with the past and get through the intensive therapy Sarah must endure all while knowing each other for the first time in Sarah's adult life.
Lisa Genova is an amazing writer. She creates characters that are easy to relate to and pull at your heart. Her knowledge as a PhD of neuroscience really took this novel from good to phenomenal. I found the entire Left Neglect brain injury fascinating and scary. It is just crazy the things that can happen to your body in an accident. Sarah's struggles to function as a "normal" person were painful to read. At some points it felt a little monotonous, but I really think it was done this way to show that the process was on-going and it really was monotonous. It was written in a way that put you in the therapy with Sarah. She didn't just suddenly heal like a story in a book she worked hard for every step forward. She whined and she got mad and she was in denial just like you would really experience.
I actually listened to this novel as an audio book. It was narrated by Sarah Paulson. I thought Paulson did a wonderful job with her narration. She had a nice pace and portrayed the emotions well with her reading. I will admit that she has some type of lisp that made it hard to listen as first. As the story developed and I got drawn in I no longer noticed it. I would listen to another novel narrated by Ms. Paulson, but I would be crossing my fingers that it was as engaging as Left Neglected so I could forget the lisp.
I did receive a paper copy of this book from Gallery Books (Simon & Schuster) in an exchange for my review. I received an email stating they were looking for reviews while I was actively listening to it, and I thought why not! I was enjoying the audio so much that I wanted a paper copy on my shelf next to Still Alice. Thanks Gallery Books!
Sarah Nickerson doesn't have time to slow down. She works 60-80 hours a week, is married, and raises three kids. She isn't complaining. She loves her job and her family. Her lifelong ambition has put her right where she wants to be - great husband, great kids, promising career, house in the best neighborhood, house in the mountains. Life takes a major turn, however, when she is trying to juggle a work call while driving in the rain and is in a serious car accident. This accident leaves her with a brain injury that requires her to look at the world differently. Not because she wants to, but literally because she sees it in a new way - without the left side. She has a brain injury called Left Neglect and can no longer see or process anything to her left. In her fight to heal Sarah gets a fresh look at life and what's important. She finds herself healing more than her brain as she re-thinks her fast paced life and comes to terms with her relationship with her mother.
Left Neglected was engrossing, educational, emotional, and moving. In today's fast paced world most of us can relate to Sarah. We may or may not be working 60-80 hours a week, but job and family demands still keep us over-scheduled. I wish I could say I have never messed with my phone while driving, but that would be a lie. After reading this it has been much easier to make the decision to keep the phone tucked in my purse while driving. I keep myself listening to audio books and use driving as me time. Anyway, too many of us in search of "the good life" move fast and don' t slow down enough to enjoy life and our loved ones. And, unfortunately, most of us never even realize it. Left Neglected makes you reexamine the way we live our lives. It teaches us to appreciate the moments and to look at now instead of always reaching for tomorrow.
While reading I kept thinking that Sarah moved faced and dreamed big so she could forget about the pain of her past. Her brother drowned when she was a child and she and the rest of her family never really healed. This brings us to the relationship between Sarah and her mother, Helen, or rather the lack of one. Helen shut off after her son died and Sarah never really felt she had a mother. After the Sarah's car accident Helen rushes to be with her, but Sarah can't fathom why her nonexistent mother would suddenly want to be around let alone help. The novel does a great job of exploring depression and familial relationships after a loss. The story line drew me in and made me root for healing. Sarah's changed state puts her in a place to understand and know her mother in a way she never thought possible. They struggled to deal with the past and get through the intensive therapy Sarah must endure all while knowing each other for the first time in Sarah's adult life.
Lisa Genova is an amazing writer. She creates characters that are easy to relate to and pull at your heart. Her knowledge as a PhD of neuroscience really took this novel from good to phenomenal. I found the entire Left Neglect brain injury fascinating and scary. It is just crazy the things that can happen to your body in an accident. Sarah's struggles to function as a "normal" person were painful to read. At some points it felt a little monotonous, but I really think it was done this way to show that the process was on-going and it really was monotonous. It was written in a way that put you in the therapy with Sarah. She didn't just suddenly heal like a story in a book she worked hard for every step forward. She whined and she got mad and she was in denial just like you would really experience.
I actually listened to this novel as an audio book. It was narrated by Sarah Paulson. I thought Paulson did a wonderful job with her narration. She had a nice pace and portrayed the emotions well with her reading. I will admit that she has some type of lisp that made it hard to listen as first. As the story developed and I got drawn in I no longer noticed it. I would listen to another novel narrated by Ms. Paulson, but I would be crossing my fingers that it was as engaging as Left Neglected so I could forget the lisp.
I did receive a paper copy of this book from Gallery Books (Simon & Schuster) in an exchange for my review. I received an email stating they were looking for reviews while I was actively listening to it, and I thought why not! I was enjoying the audio so much that I wanted a paper copy on my shelf next to Still Alice. Thanks Gallery Books!
Thursday, July 7, 2011
The Help - Movie
I consider myself so lucky tonight. I got a pass to an Advanced Screening of The Help. I brought along my Man for a date. It was so, so good. I typically find myself disappointed by movie renditions, but not tonight! It stayed so true to the book and made me want to read it over again. Now, I have to keep in mind that I read the book quite awhile back, but nothing stuck out as out of place or new to my memories of The Help.
I loved, loved, loved it! I think I cried 3 times, and laughed a few more. The Man really enjoyed it as well. In fact, I didn't hear anyone leaving make a negative comment.
Interesting fact - I found out that the screening company sent out emails to all the area churches to ask staff to attend (how many secretaries do you think passed that on to the big Pastor boss - none that I met LOL). I know that it has a spiritual side, but I don't remember being overwhelmed by it when I read the book or thinking it was a religious book. I guess if you are religious it just may not stand out to you. Anyway, I found it very interesting that they had marketed to churches (and then gave them preferential seating even though I was literally the first in line). Luckily I ran into staff from my church and they saved us some prime seats. Thanks Melissa!!
I can't recommend the movie enough. You must go see it if you enjoyed the book.
Official Movie Trailer
Book Description courtesty of The Penguin Group
I loved, loved, loved it! I think I cried 3 times, and laughed a few more. The Man really enjoyed it as well. In fact, I didn't hear anyone leaving make a negative comment.
Interesting fact - I found out that the screening company sent out emails to all the area churches to ask staff to attend (how many secretaries do you think passed that on to the big Pastor boss - none that I met LOL). I know that it has a spiritual side, but I don't remember being overwhelmed by it when I read the book or thinking it was a religious book. I guess if you are religious it just may not stand out to you. Anyway, I found it very interesting that they had marketed to churches (and then gave them preferential seating even though I was literally the first in line). Luckily I ran into staff from my church and they saved us some prime seats. Thanks Melissa!!
I can't recommend the movie enough. You must go see it if you enjoyed the book.
Official Movie Trailer
Book Description courtesty of The Penguin Group
Be prepared to meet three unforgettable women:
Twenty-two-year-old Skeeter has just returned home after graduating from Ole Miss. She may have a degree, but it is 1962, Mississippi, and her mother will not be happy till Skeeter has a ring on her finger. Skeeter would normally find solace with her beloved maid Constantine, the woman who raised her, but Constantine has disappeared and no one will tell Skeeter where she has gone.
Aibileen is a black maid, a wise, regal woman raising her seventeenth white child. Something has shifted inside her after the loss of her own son, who died while his bosses looked the other way. She is devoted to the little girl she looks after, though she knows both their hearts may be broken.
Minny, Aibileen's best friend, is short, fat, and perhaps the sassiest woman in Mississippi. She can cook like nobody's business, but she can't mind her tongue, so she's lost yet another job. Minny finally finds a position working for someone too new to town to know her reputation. But her new boss has secrets of her own.
Seemingly as different from one another as can be, these women will nonetheless come together for a clandestine project that will put them all at risk. And why? Because they are suffocating within the lines that define their town and their times. And sometimes lines are made to be crossed.
In pitch-perfect voices, Kathryn Stockett creates three extraordinary women whose determination to start a movement of their own forever changes a town, and the way women—mothers, daughters, caregivers, friends—view one another. A deeply moving novel filled with poignancy, humor, and hope, The Help is a timeless and universal story about the lines we abide by, and the ones we don't.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Chasing Amanda by Melissa Foster
Today I am hosting the blog tour for Melissa Foster's sophomore novel Chasing Amanda. Before I post my review I would like to let you get to know Melissa a little. Rather than ask her questions she has answered a million times or give her a boxed-in topic, I gave her free range of my page. (After reading two of her books I had no doubt that she would write something better than what I could try to pry out of her and I wasn't disappoin
ted). So without further ado Melissa Foster...
My Review:
Chasing Amanda is a complex novel full of characters wearing the mask of one life and living the turmoil of another.
Molly Tanner seems to have it all. Married for many years to her husband Dr. Cole Tanner, they are still in love and extremely happy. Her son Erik has gone to college, but phones regularly and remains close to his parents. However, Molly struggles with the gift (and curse) of "the Knowing". She can see and feel things that have happened or are going to occur. Nine years prior she ignored her ability and a child named Amanda lost her life. Unable to live with the guilt, Molly's family moved to the small town of Boyd's to start fresh. Now this seemingly safe community has been rocked by the abduction of a child. Molly's past comes back to torment her and her family as she begins to have visions of the missing child. She struggles to determine what she is really seeing and what is still haunting her from the past. As we follow Molly through her race to find the child we also see the development of many other residents of Boyds who harbor their own secrets.
Chasing Amanda is told from various character viewpoints, but is never difficult to follow. Each character gradually reveals a vital part of the mystery while adding another shocking detail to their life. I was initially worried that there may be "too much" happening, but it seemed to be just right. Each character was developed so fully that I felt like I knew them personally. I routed for them and feared as I read on that a character I had grown to love was going to be guilty of a heinous crime. As each of their stories grow so does your understanding of why they have made the choices that are now ruling them.
The mystery has so many twists and turns that it was impossible to figure out who was guilty of what. Heck, for awhile I wasn't even sure what they were doing to know what they could be guilty of. It all comes together beautifully in the end, but it had me guessing the entire time. As soon as I was sure that I knew what was happening another bombshell exploded. I was hooked from page 1.
Melissa Foster is a fabulous writer. I reviewed her first book Megan's Way here. It still continues to be one of my favorite reads as a blogger. On a very exciting note it is currently being adapted to film. I have very happily kept in touch with Melissa as she continues to write and I anxiously await each of her new novels. Melissa is also the founder of The Women's Nest a wonderful site for women.
Melissa did provide me with an e-copy of this novel for my review. However, I really enjoyed it and bought a copy to support her and to be able to easily read it across all of my devices.
Thanks so much Melissa for inviting me to participate in your blog tour.
ted). So without further ado Melissa Foster...The Reality of Character Development, by Melissa Foster
When Alison invited me to write a guest post, I really had to think about what I wanted to say. So many bloggers provide guidelines for guest posts, and Alison was kind enough to simply ask for whatever it was that I wanted to write. Thank you, Alison, for giving me such an open road.
I find myself staring at a blank page, and wondering what Alison’s blog readers might find interesting. I’m often asked about my characters, and if they’re based on real people. What I’m never asked about, is how real those characters become to me. Now, we’ve got a meaty topic!
As an author, I have the privilege of coming up with the setting, plots and subplot of my stories, which can be incredibly fun. The characters, however, offer a different type of fun. While I do have the role of developing each character, which is a very cool undertaking, there’s also a great responsibility that goes along with the creation of these people who I will live with for the next nine months to a year (or longer).
Typically, my characters appear with backgrounds, personalities, and even styles in place, making the physical side of development easy. The more difficult part of character development is making the characters flawed. In real life, all people have flaws and vulnerabilities. The trick in writing is to create flaws and expose vulnerabilities while continuing to develop the character’s strengths and likability.
I take the responsibility of developing three-dimensional, realistically flawed characters very seriously, going so far as to live with them for probably way too long. I think about my characters long after I’ve written the books. Their backgrounds and scenes play out in my mind like movies. Sometimes I even catch myself laughing (out loud) about what one of my characters might think about something that’s going on in real life.
The next time you run into me, if you see that I have a far-off look in my eye, you might want to sidle up and ask me which “friend” I’m thinking about. ‘-)
If you’re in a book club, or just want to chat about writing, email me: thinkhappygirl (at) yahoo (dot) com.
Chasing Amanda is a complex novel full of characters wearing the mask of one life and living the turmoil of another.
Molly Tanner seems to have it all. Married for many years to her husband Dr. Cole Tanner, they are still in love and extremely happy. Her son Erik has gone to college, but phones regularly and remains close to his parents. However, Molly struggles with the gift (and curse) of "the Knowing". She can see and feel things that have happened or are going to occur. Nine years prior she ignored her ability and a child named Amanda lost her life. Unable to live with the guilt, Molly's family moved to the small town of Boyd's to start fresh. Now this seemingly safe community has been rocked by the abduction of a child. Molly's past comes back to torment her and her family as she begins to have visions of the missing child. She struggles to determine what she is really seeing and what is still haunting her from the past. As we follow Molly through her race to find the child we also see the development of many other residents of Boyds who harbor their own secrets.
Chasing Amanda is told from various character viewpoints, but is never difficult to follow. Each character gradually reveals a vital part of the mystery while adding another shocking detail to their life. I was initially worried that there may be "too much" happening, but it seemed to be just right. Each character was developed so fully that I felt like I knew them personally. I routed for them and feared as I read on that a character I had grown to love was going to be guilty of a heinous crime. As each of their stories grow so does your understanding of why they have made the choices that are now ruling them.
The mystery has so many twists and turns that it was impossible to figure out who was guilty of what. Heck, for awhile I wasn't even sure what they were doing to know what they could be guilty of. It all comes together beautifully in the end, but it had me guessing the entire time. As soon as I was sure that I knew what was happening another bombshell exploded. I was hooked from page 1.
Melissa Foster is a fabulous writer. I reviewed her first book Megan's Way here. It still continues to be one of my favorite reads as a blogger. On a very exciting note it is currently being adapted to film. I have very happily kept in touch with Melissa as she continues to write and I anxiously await each of her new novels. Melissa is also the founder of The Women's Nest a wonderful site for women.
Melissa did provide me with an e-copy of this novel for my review. However, I really enjoyed it and bought a copy to support her and to be able to easily read it across all of my devices.
Thanks so much Melissa for inviting me to participate in your blog tour.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Bossypants by Tina Fey
Before Liz Lemon, before "Weekend Update," before "Sarah Palin," Tina Fey was just a young girl with a dream: a recurring stress dream that she was being chased through a local airport by her middle-school gym teacher. She also had a dream that one day she would be a comedian on TV.
She has seen both these dreams come true.
At last, Tina Fey's story can be told. From her youthful days as a vicious nerd to her tour of duty on Saturday Night Live; from her passionately halfhearted pursuit of physical beauty to her life as a mother eating things off the floor; from her one-sided college romance to her nearly fatal honeymoon -- from the beginning of this paragraph to this final sentence.
Tina Fey reveals all, and proves what we've all suspected: you're no one until someone calls you bossy.
(Includes Special, Never-Before-Solicited Opinions on Breastfeeding, Princesses, Photoshop, the Electoral Process, and Italian Rum Cake!)
She has seen both these dreams come true.
At last, Tina Fey's story can be told. From her youthful days as a vicious nerd to her tour of duty on Saturday Night Live; from her passionately halfhearted pursuit of physical beauty to her life as a mother eating things off the floor; from her one-sided college romance to her nearly fatal honeymoon -- from the beginning of this paragraph to this final sentence.
Tina Fey reveals all, and proves what we've all suspected: you're no one until someone calls you bossy.
(Includes Special, Never-Before-Solicited Opinions on Breastfeeding, Princesses, Photoshop, the Electoral Process, and Italian Rum Cake!)
If any book could bring me out of blogging hibernation I knew this was the one. I definitely wasn't disappointed when I started reading. If you enjoy Tina Fey's comedic style then this is the the book for you. If you don't well you have been warned. The wit and humor she is known for flows off the page. Personally, I was in HEAVEN! I think my laughter started on page 1 and never stopped. This was that book where you keep reading passages out loud to your significant other. You know while they roll their eyes, but then can't help but laugh because it really is funny.
In Bossypants Tina Fey manages to share bits of her personal and her professional life. It is part autobiographical, bust she just skims the surface of her actual life to set up her jokes. You will read about bits of her childhood, her marriage, Saturday Night Live, 30 Rock, college years, etc. It just doesn't dive deep. It isn't full of life changing secrets or advice or political positions. It won't convert you to any religion or new diet. What is will do it make you laugh. It is a book for fun and joy. I would recommend it for anyone who likes Tina Fey.
I received this book free from Hachette Book Group in exchange for a review. However, I will say that I enjoyed this book so much that I am considering purchasing the audiobook. It is read by Tina Fey and I imagine hearing her timing of the jokes would make it that much better.
In Bossypants Tina Fey manages to share bits of her personal and her professional life. It is part autobiographical, bust she just skims the surface of her actual life to set up her jokes. You will read about bits of her childhood, her marriage, Saturday Night Live, 30 Rock, college years, etc. It just doesn't dive deep. It isn't full of life changing secrets or advice or political positions. It won't convert you to any religion or new diet. What is will do it make you laugh. It is a book for fun and joy. I would recommend it for anyone who likes Tina Fey.
I received this book free from Hachette Book Group in exchange for a review. However, I will say that I enjoyed this book so much that I am considering purchasing the audiobook. It is read by Tina Fey and I imagine hearing her timing of the jokes would make it that much better.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Total Randomness
It's like I want to blog, but every darn time I think about it I go running from the computer. It's that I stop and start. I feel like a failure. Then I realize. This blog is mine! I can come and go when I please. I may not be the "go to" blog for anyone, but I can still do it.
Life takes me in so many directions.
I got married in January. It was awesome!
I tote my kids from place to place (but a bit less now since my daughter drives). I have my kids and my stepkids here for the summer. That makes a house of 6. Besides toting them I just love spending time with them. I watch them play sports. At home we act silly and have fun. We will be going to the pool all summer.
Oh and now I have this obsession with trying to eat better. I am cutting back on meat and trying to eat more natural foods. Plant-based baby! Now, if I could just get immersed enough in it to lose weight.
I play soccer with friends every Wednesday night. I joined the Blondes v Brunettes Flag Football event for Alzheimer's again. What a great time for a great cause!
Oh and I read the crap out of some books! I usually read one on the Kindle, one paper book, and listen to one on audio at the same time.
Things I don't do:
Garden - to the dread of my neighbors spring comes and we are the only house without a pretty landscape. I would love to but...
Keep a spotless house - While I would like to walk into a spotless house who wants to spend their life cleaning??
Get up early - I hate waking up! Once I am out of bed I'm fine, but before that forget about it. I am perpetually late for work.
So maybe I'm back and for awhile. I do have some definite book reviews I want to post. Plus, now I think I will throw in other randomness. I might just post on occasion or I might get blog crazy. We'll see...
Life takes me in so many directions.
I got married in January. It was awesome!
I tote my kids from place to place (but a bit less now since my daughter drives). I have my kids and my stepkids here for the summer. That makes a house of 6. Besides toting them I just love spending time with them. I watch them play sports. At home we act silly and have fun. We will be going to the pool all summer.
Oh and now I have this obsession with trying to eat better. I am cutting back on meat and trying to eat more natural foods. Plant-based baby! Now, if I could just get immersed enough in it to lose weight.
I play soccer with friends every Wednesday night. I joined the Blondes v Brunettes Flag Football event for Alzheimer's again. What a great time for a great cause!
Oh and I read the crap out of some books! I usually read one on the Kindle, one paper book, and listen to one on audio at the same time.
Things I don't do:
Garden - to the dread of my neighbors spring comes and we are the only house without a pretty landscape. I would love to but...
Keep a spotless house - While I would like to walk into a spotless house who wants to spend their life cleaning??
Get up early - I hate waking up! Once I am out of bed I'm fine, but before that forget about it. I am perpetually late for work.
So maybe I'm back and for awhile. I do have some definite book reviews I want to post. Plus, now I think I will throw in other randomness. I might just post on occasion or I might get blog crazy. We'll see...
Friday, July 23, 2010
Got Books Giveaway
Ahhh!!! Late to the game, but here I am! This year has been a hard one for me to fit blogging into, but I still read my books. Books make all the difference for me. If I am stressed or just need to get away I open a book and it's instant transport to another time and place. I have had very little time to sit down and tell you about the books I am reading right now, but I am holding a contest for you to win your own transportation to another time and place.
Rules for Entry:
1. This one is simple. If the books I'm giving away look good to you then comment below. Make sure you leave your email so I can notify you if you win. I will pick a winner for each book so tell me which one you like.
2. This is a short contest. My winners will be chosen Sunday, July 25th. I will send an email and you will have 3 days to respond.
Book 1: The Passage by Justin Cronin
I chose this book because it is a must read of the summer. I received it as an ARC and loved it! Here is my review. This is the first book in a trilogy and it is one I think you will find yourself very quickly drawn into. For more info on the book visit the official website. For book related fun visit this site (also an official website).
Book 2: Rabbit: Chasing Beth Rider by Ellen C. Maze
Okay, I haven't read this book yet, but I am going to get to it very soon. I have read a sample of the first 100 pages and I have got to finish this book! You want to read the 184
page sample? Here it is...Here's the other reason I am giving the book away - I won a contest by the author to help name a victim in the 2nd book of this series. LOL I used my ex-husband's name. Maybe that isn't nice, but I thought it was funny. So anyway, I want all of you to be ready read book 2! I am friend's with the author on Facebook, but I haven't told her I am giving away her book yet. I think she will be pleasantly surprised! Now my order to her will be asking for 2 rather than 1!
Book description from Amazon is here. BTW, the average rating for this book on Amazon is 5 Stars!! Or visit the book site Ellen would love to see you!
Okay, I know both of these books have a vampire type theme, but I promise they are completely different and worth the read!! What are you waiting for get your comment entered!!!
Thursday, June 17, 2010
The Little Giant of Aberdeen County by Tiffany Baker
The Little Giant of Aberdeen County follows the life of Truly Plaice. The moment she is born into her family it is forever changed. Her mother dies during childbirth and her father never recovers. Not only that, but Truly is an oddity from the start. She is an enormous baby and continues to be large throughout her life. This would be apparent on its own, but standing beside her beautiful, dainty sister Serena Jane she sticks out even more. Life become even more different for the sisters when their father dies and they are separated into different families. Serena Jane goes to a family that dotes on her and Truly to a farm full of bad luck. Serena wears beautiful dresses and hair bows while Truly wears boys clothes or dull colored bag-like dresses. Much of Truly's life she is a giant, but mostly invisible to the entire town while Serena Jane is the object of affection to all around her. It is this beauty that leads Serena Jane into an unwanted marriage to Robert Morgan. She endures it as long as she can, but then escapes to a new life leaving behind a husband and a son. Truly comes in to pick up the pieces of the family left behind and finds herself in a way she never imagined.
I enjoyed this story. I don't have anything in common with the characters individually, but I am from a small town. I understand the views that different is odd rather than special. Truly spent most of her life as an outcast. She was either ignored or people found her gruesome. She was the "little giant"- huge in size and small in impact. As her life progresses even her actions are dictated by someone other than herself. Her sister Serena runs from the life she hates leaving a husband and a son and instructions to find Truly. It is with this note that Truly comes to run the household of her horribly cruel brother-in-law Robert "Bob Bob" Morgan. That is where she is set to spend the rest of her days, until unlocking the secret of Robert's ancestor changes her forever. Her knowledge provides her with a strength and power she didn't know she could possess. It also allows her to become more comfortable with the life and appearance she has been given. Through her few friends and her new found knowledge, Truly is able to move forward and begin to make life what she wants it to be.
I did have an issue with how shallow everyone in the town seemed to be. I stated above that a small town can frown upon differences rather than celebrating them, but that would never be an entire town. This story seemed to have only two characters who could even stand to be around Truly - Amelia and Marcus. Both of these characters also had traits that made them outcasts. I just found it a bit hard to believe that not one adult in the story showed love toward Truly. More than that they openly loathed being near her and seemed out to get her. I think this shallowness may have been over-emphasised to make Truly's differences stand out in the storyline.
I think the real focus of The Little Giant of Aberdeen County was to weave a story that confronts differences and mortality. Differences can direct our path in life to an extent, but it still within our ability and our responsibility to take a hold of our life and create what we want out of it. Truly started where her differences put her, but ended where she had longed to be. Mortality is a given in every life. Truly spent much of the novel confronting her possible impending death due to her disease, and assisting or being connected to the deaths of others. Dealing with those deaths is what taught Truly how to live. Death taught her that each person has a different impact and a different role in life and helped her see what she wanted hers to be.
I would recommend this book. I overall enjoyed the story and felt the symbolism really pulled the story together. I was only slightly bothered by the shallow townspeople, because of the depth and growth of the main characters.
I received this book from Newman Communications.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Show Me 5 Saturday 6/12/10
Welcome to My Meme!
Each Saturday You will post the answer to these questions. The number indicates the number of answers you will provide.
1 Book you read and/or reviewed this week
2 Words that describe the book
3 Settings where it took place or characters you met
4 Things you liked and/or disliked about it
5 Stars or less for your rating?
1 Book: She's So Dead to Us by Kieran Scott
2 Words: Teenage Drama
3 Settings/Characters:
Ally Ryan - she's just come back to the town she grew up in after being gone for almost 2 years. Her family left during the night after her dad's investment idea lost millions of dollars for all the families in her wealthy neighborhood
Orchard Hill - a town where the "Cresties" and "Norms" are separated by money, and no one is allowed to cross over that line
Shannen - she used to be Ally's best friend, but since Ally has returned it seems as if she is out to get her.
4 Likes/Dislikes:
1. I had a difficult time with how superficial everyone in the story seemed to be - especially the parents. It was if they had no personality beyond being rich or poor (which was probably just middle class)
2. I appreciated how the author addressed the peer pressure that teenagers feel. It is common for many teenagers to feel torn between what they really believe and what their friends are encouraging them to believe. Even Ally who wanted to change felt herself falling back into her old patterns.
3. It was hard for me to connect with any of the characters. I grew up in a small school and we didn't deal with cliques like this.
4. I enjoyed the texting at the beginning of each chapter. It reflected what the students at the school were feeling. I thought the author did a good job of writing/speaking like a teenager.
5 Stars or Less: 3.5 This wasn't my kind of book, but I think any teens who enjoy the Clique Series would really enjoy it.
I received this book from Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing.
You can buy it at
Simon & Schuster
Amazon
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
The Traveler's Gift by Andy Andrews
This is not a new book, but one I have wanted to read for about a year. Last year I read Andy Andrew's novel The Noticer and knew he could tell a story and inspire people. I heard this one was good as well, but had forgotten to ever pick it up at the bookstore. Last week my boss brought her copy of The Traveler's Gift Seven Decisions that Determine Personal Success to me after we saw that Andy Andrews will be at the Women of Faith conference this year and I mentioned loving his other book. Yay for my boss Penny! She always has the great faith-based books!
Anywho, The Traveler's Gift is about a man named David Ponder (I'm thinking that's symbolic wink,wink) who becomes depressed and desperate after losing his high level job. He attempts to find work, but loses even his minimum wage job. Added to that is stress over his daughter needing her tonsils out right away. David begins to feel as if he is failing his family and decides they would be better off if he dies. He believes his wife could find a man who is better at supporting her and his life insurance policy would ensure his daughter is given the medical care she needs. At the crossroads of his life or death experience he is transported around the world and the ages to meet famous people who have seven life lessons to share. He meets Abe Lincoln,
Anne Frank, and five others. Each principal they share with David opens his eyes to a better way to live and to a faith he has never possessed.
I enjoyed this book immensely. The principals presented seem basic, but they are perfect. It is like having an aha! moment every single time. Each idea presented is something we all should know in our heart, but we don't follow it or give it the time it deserves to teach us. One principal is "I will greet this day with a forgiving spirit". This talks of not only forgiving others but also of forgiving yourself.
I loved the presentation of the famous figures in our history. Imagine Anne Frank teaching us about happiness! I don't mark in books, but there were times I wanted to highlight a quote that touched me. This really is a book that can change your entire view of life if you let it.
This book is Christian and God is a very important part of the story. It isn't presented in a "shove it down the throat" manner, but may not be of interest if you don't believe in God. That being said, if you aren't a Christian the principals are still very applicable to your life.
I also found that this book has been written in a teen version. I am excited to purchase it for my daughter and then pass it on to my stepson. Another great companion to the book is Mastering the Seven Decisions That Determine Personal Success: An Owner's Manual to the New York Times Bestseller, The Traveler's Gift. This walks an individual through the seven principals while asking questions to direct you to make the changes to improve your life. I have yet to read either of those to be able to give a genuine review.
I hope each of you picks up this book. It is one that could change your life.
Monday, May 17, 2010
The Passage by Justin Cronin
I'm back! $50 later I have a new cord and my computer loves me again. Yay!
So, I finished The Passage last week, but have had to take some time to get my thoughts together before I did a review. First of all, I previously read Trish's review at Hey Lady! and have had to re-read it to make sure I didn't accidentally plagiarize. I felt similar to her and didn't want to not realize I was taking something from her review.
Now for my review...
The Passage is a book that takes vampire to a totally new level. Most books focus on hot vampires and teenage angst. Some more graphic, some erotic, some - well you get the picture. I enjoyed almost all of those books, but was glad to take a break from them. This is vampires, but so much more. Yes, they are the basis of the entire novel, but Edward they are not. What happens is more scientific and horrific. These are man-made monsters that wipe out most of the world. They jump at astounding levels and speeds and glow in the dark. They have no idea who they are, but will attack you and rip you apart for your blood once the dark sets in and they are free to roam. This is the world after the rampage. Man against beast. Man is trying to survive in a sheltered, safe existence, and the vampires just want to be complete.
Many main characters exist in this novel. There were times I had to look back to make sure I had the right character background with my story. I think that is because I am usually able to skim parts of a book and still have full comprehension. In Mr. Cronin's novel you have to pay attention. The great thing is that you totally want to. I was thrown into a new world and I was on the edge of my seat as they fought for their lives. Not only was that happening, but there were strong relationships and beautiful histories. There was a world created that was amazing. I read this and wondered how long it took the author to create this new world. It was so deep and every piece came together and made complete sense.
Back to the specific characters, they were great. Each had a very distinct personality. Even though they were all different, you found a way to relate to almost all of them. It seems impossible, but I even felt for the vampires as they slashed people. They were victims as well. Everyone in the novel is searching for something or someone, but it isn't redundant. You don't get tired of the journey, though I did long for peace for them.
Per Justin Cronin's own daughter's words this is the story "about a girl who saves the world". (Mr Cronin asked his daughter what he should write and this is what she requested) I for one can't wait for each part of the journey to unfold so I can be a part of the world she saves. I want to see who remains, and how it all comes together in the end. I don't know when the next novel comes out, but I will be buying it as soon as I see that pre-order button!
Now that I have gushed and probably made little sense to you here is the synopsis from the books website. www.enterthepassage.com
This book was given to me by the publisher Random House. Thanks so much! I enjoyed every minute of it!
So, I finished The Passage last week, but have had to take some time to get my thoughts together before I did a review. First of all, I previously read Trish's review at Hey Lady! and have had to re-read it to make sure I didn't accidentally plagiarize. I felt similar to her and didn't want to not realize I was taking something from her review.
Now for my review...
The Passage is a book that takes vampire to a totally new level. Most books focus on hot vampires and teenage angst. Some more graphic, some erotic, some - well you get the picture. I enjoyed almost all of those books, but was glad to take a break from them. This is vampires, but so much more. Yes, they are the basis of the entire novel, but Edward they are not. What happens is more scientific and horrific. These are man-made monsters that wipe out most of the world. They jump at astounding levels and speeds and glow in the dark. They have no idea who they are, but will attack you and rip you apart for your blood once the dark sets in and they are free to roam. This is the world after the rampage. Man against beast. Man is trying to survive in a sheltered, safe existence, and the vampires just want to be complete.
Many main characters exist in this novel. There were times I had to look back to make sure I had the right character background with my story. I think that is because I am usually able to skim parts of a book and still have full comprehension. In Mr. Cronin's novel you have to pay attention. The great thing is that you totally want to. I was thrown into a new world and I was on the edge of my seat as they fought for their lives. Not only was that happening, but there were strong relationships and beautiful histories. There was a world created that was amazing. I read this and wondered how long it took the author to create this new world. It was so deep and every piece came together and made complete sense.
Back to the specific characters, they were great. Each had a very distinct personality. Even though they were all different, you found a way to relate to almost all of them. It seems impossible, but I even felt for the vampires as they slashed people. They were victims as well. Everyone in the novel is searching for something or someone, but it isn't redundant. You don't get tired of the journey, though I did long for peace for them.
Per Justin Cronin's own daughter's words this is the story "about a girl who saves the world". (Mr Cronin asked his daughter what he should write and this is what she requested) I for one can't wait for each part of the journey to unfold so I can be a part of the world she saves. I want to see who remains, and how it all comes together in the end. I don't know when the next novel comes out, but I will be buying it as soon as I see that pre-order button!
Now that I have gushed and probably made little sense to you here is the synopsis from the books website. www.enterthepassage.com
About the Book
“It happened fast. Thirty-two minutes for one world to die,
another to be born.”First, the unthinkable: a security breach at a secret U.S. government facility unleashes the monstrous product of a chilling military experiment. Then, the unspeakable: a night of chaos and carnage gives way to sunrise on a nation, and ultimately a world, forever altered. All that remains for the stunned survivors is the long fight ahead and a future ruled by fear—of darkness, of death, of a fate far worse.
As civilization swiftly crumbles into a primal landscape of predators and prey, two people flee in search of sanctuary. FBI agent Brad Wolgast is a good man haunted by what he’s done in the line of duty. Six-year-old orphan Amy Harper Bellafonte is a refugee from the doomed scientific project that has triggered apocalypse. He is determined to protect her from the horror set loose by her captors. But for Amy, escaping the bloody fallout is only the beginning of a much longer odyssey—spanning miles and decades—towards the time and place where she must finish what should never have begun.
With The Passage, award-winning author Justin Cronin has written both a relentlessly suspenseful adventure and an epic chronicle of human endurance in the face of unprecedented catastrophe and unimaginable danger. Its inventive storytelling, masterful prose, and depth of human insight mark it as a crucial and transcendent work of modern fiction.
This book was given to me by the publisher Random House. Thanks so much! I enjoyed every minute of it!
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Technical Difficulties
Hey all! My computer cord fell into pieces today. I am logged on for a brief moment on Mark's work computer. I will be going to get a new cord later today and then I will be back with my meme and a review on The Passage by Justin Cronin. It will be a glowing review...
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Show Me 5 Saturday 5/8/10 (ok Sunday the 9th)
Welcome to My Meme!
Each Saturday You will post the answer to these questions. The number indicates the number of answers you will provide.
1 Book you read and/or reviewed this week
2 Words that describe the book
3 Settings where it took place or characters you met
4 Things you liked and/or disliked about it
5 Stars or less for your rating?
1 Book: Little Bee by Chris Cleave
2 Words: Cruel summer
3 Settings/Characters: Sarah- she's lost her husband and is trying to figure out how to pick up her life again. Is she sad or numb or indifferent? Now she must care for her son and pick of the pieces of the past that torn them all apart. 2. Little Bee - she comes from a different world, but changed Sarah forever. She's only a child, but what she has seen and known makes her older than all of us by many years 3. Nigeria- The place that changed all of their lives.
4 Likes/Dislikes: 1. I liked that the novel addresses the atrocities that occur in 3rd world countries. It is easy living in the USA to ignore the wars and poverty that so many face. 2. I liked the voice of Little Bee. Her thoughts on the world were thought provoking. "...I ask you right here to agree with me that a scar is never ugly. That is what the scar makers want us to think. But you and I, we must make an agreement to defy them. We must see all scars as beauty. Okay? This will be our secret. Because take it from me, a scar does not form on the dying. A scar means, I survived." To me that was such a beautiful thing to read. Her ability to take these types of truths from tragedy was inspiring. 3. I can't decide how I feel about the secrecy surrounding the novel. The back cover even promotes it. I get that you don't want to ruin the story, but who wants to be told anything in any storyline before reading it? Isn't that normal? 4. I am also torn about the ending. Obviously, I won't say what happens but I can't decide if I thought it ended right or if I should throw the book at the wall.
5 Stars or Less: I say 3.75. I really liked it, but I didn't fall in love with all the characters and couldn't decide on the ending.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Show Me 5 Saturday 5/1/10
Welcome to My Meme!
Each Saturday You will post the answer to these questions. The number indicates the number of answers you will provide. Since I was gone for awhile some of you were posting a Mr Linky on Jenner's Blog. I will figure that out, so we can do that here. Thanks Jenner for keeping this going while I was away!
Each Saturday You will post the answer to these questions. The number indicates the number of answers you will provide. Since I was gone for awhile some of you were posting a Mr Linky on Jenner's Blog. I will figure that out, so we can do that here. Thanks Jenner for keeping this going while I was away!
1 Book you read and/or reviewed this week
2 Words that describe the book
3 Settings where it took place or characters you met
4 Things you liked and/or disliked about it
5 Stars or less for your rating?
1 Book: The Opposite of Me by Sarah Pekkanen
2 Words: Sisters, Insecurities
3 Settings/Characters: 1. Lindsey - the successful twin sister. Always known as the "smart" one, never popular, never time for anything but work. Once she loses her job she moves home with her parents and tries to start over, but nothing is coming together quite like she imagined 2. Alex - the beautiful twin sister. She has the looks,the easy life and the fairytale wedding, but suddenly everything is changing. 3. Maryland - Lindsey and Alex's hometown. Each of them find much more here than they are looking for once they are togethe
r again. 4 Likes/Dislikes: 1. I love the writing style of Sarah Pekkanan. She has a sense of humor that comes through in her writing, but she can also make it deep and emotional. 2. Though parts of the ending are predictable, the story to get to the end was a great read. I couldn't put this book down, and I enjoyed every minute. 3. This book was chick lit, but it also made you think. What would you do if you found out things were different than you had always believed? What would you do if your career fell apart and you had to reinvent yourself? How would you learn to love and communicate with your twin if there had always been differences too great to let you bond? Are you labeled in your family? It's all in here....family growth, personal growth, secrets, love, and Change. 4. I loved the supporting characters. They had great personalities and stories of their own.
5 Stars or Less: I give it a 5. It was a quick read and thoroughly enjoyable. It may be "chick lit", but it hooked me from page 1.
This book was sent to me by the author (and I bought a copy).
Monday, April 26, 2010
Conversations with Jerry and Other People I Thought Were Dead - Irene Kendig
In this remarkable collection of interviews with seven people who've died, Irene Kendig, with the help of a gifted medium, explores what happens when we transition from physical to non-physical reality. Each of the seven dialogues begins with the same question: What did you experience when you released your last breath on earth?This book is for anyone has has ever wondered whether there is a Heaven or a Hell, a Judgment Day, or a reunion with loved ones. It will illuminate and inspire your heart and mind whether you believe in an afterlife or not. These dialogues explore life from a spiritual perspective, which elevates consciousness and empowers you to make choices in alignment with your soul’s purpose.
The responses offered by Ms. Kendig's loved ones not only diminish fear of dying, they provide solace and strength for those who grieve, and inspire all to live courageously, joyfully, and respectfully . . . now.sumary taken from www.irenekendig.com
When I saw the promotion asking for reviews of this book I was extremely excited. I mean who isn't curious about what someone who has died will say about the afterlife? The author, Irene Kendig, speaks with seven people from her past by using a Medium she was introduced to by her friend. Sounds pretty interesting right?
This book was interesting and I got right into reading it, but I also had some issues with it. Let me be clear and say that I think some of the issue was me having a skewed expectation. This book clearly states what it is about, and never promises to read like some fiction novel. I did know that going in, but sometimes the writing came across a bit more technical than I had imagined. For those of you who have read The Time Travelers Wife it reminded me of trying to get my mind around how he could travel and see himself and so on. Here's an example:
Irene: If the individuated mind exists both in the physical body and in every particle of light I am, then what happens to the part that belongs to my physical body when I die?
Jerry: The individuated mind doesn't belong to the physical body. A portion of the energy that you are animates the physical body, which is pure energy too, just in a denser form. When it's time to release your physical body, that energy is withdrawn and refocused to your spirited body. It's not segmented into physical energy or spiritual energy; it's all one, and an aspect of that one energy is focused on commanding the physical body.
p. 53 of ARC
Most of the book came across a bit too technical for me to get lost in the wonder of what was being said.
Also, I did have a hard time separating my religious beliefs from the ideas presented. There was much discussion of a higher power be it called God or something else. I found comfort in some of the ideas. Such as the idea that each of us, while in the Spiritual form choose how we will come back to Earth. A life is chosen to focus on what we need to learn to become a more loving, spirited being. That made me feel purposeful and gave a sense of reasoning for the negative aspects of life. Love is also a major component in this novel. I personally believe in a God that is Loving. I found those ideas were complimentary to my beliefs. However, as it progressed it felt like a "new age" type discussion and just left me a bit overwhelmed.
It was also hard for me to grasp the idea that "you can't hurt anyone who doesn't agree to be hurt". I know as adults we have a choice to leave a situation or turn something bad into something better, etc, but what about abused children? When did they agree to be hurt? I really couldn't wrap my mind around that idea. Maybe they were just referring to emotional pain, but I took it as all hurt.
Overall, this book was a difficult read for me and a very difficult review to write. I appreciated how much it made me reflect and look at life in a new way. I was happy to read about the LOVE present in the afterlife. I even enjoyed the short segments in the book where the interviewer/interviewee reflected on life and how it could be lived better. I couldn't get as deeply into the book as I liked because I found it came across too technically. I would recommend this if you are willing to do some deep thinking. I wouldn't recommend it for those days you want to get lost in a book.
This ARC was provided to me by the author.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Award
Vicki from Reading At The Beach and Laurel Rain-Snowpassed this my way back in November, but because of my break I didn't see them until thisweek. Here is what I am suppose to do:
The rules of this one is to list ten honest things about me and then pass the award on to ten other book bloggers.
1. I am really bad at keeping my house clean. I try, but I really hate to clean.
2. I am a twin, but my sister was stillborn. I have always wished she was around.
3. I have 2 kids -1 boy 1 girl, 2 step-kids - 1 boy one girl, 2 dogs - 1 boy 1 girl, 2 cats - you get the idea...I only have one man though,and no girlfriend. LOL
4. I have always wanted to be a runner, but probably couldn't go further than 1/8 mi before I would be walking.
5. I'm short. 5'2". I wish I was taller.
6. If I could be anything I wanted I would want to be a famous speaker. Iwould want to speak about things that would change others' lives. My other dream is to do something involving books full time.
7. I convinced my family that we didn't sit at the dining room table, and turned the room into a library completed with a chaise. It is my favorite room in the house.
8. My kids amaze me every day. I love them so much it makes my chest hurt sometimes.
9. I love church, but rarely make it to service. I do join a women's study group to keep myself in touch.
10. I cry at commercials sometimes. I'm such a sap!
I have no idea who to pass this too! It's like I am starting over and I am lost. I will think about it for awhile before passing it on.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Show Me 5 Saturday 4/24/10
Welcome to My Meme!
I've been gone awhile,but I thought I would give this a try again!
Each Saturday You will post the answer to these questions. The number indicates the number of answers you will provide.
I've been gone awhile,but I thought I would give this a try again!
Each Saturday You will post the answer to these questions. The number indicates the number of answers you will provide.
1 Book you read and/or reviewed this week
2 Words that describe the book
3 Settings where it took place or characters you met
4 Things you liked and/or disliked about it
5 Stars or less for your rating?
1 Book: The Fiddler's Gun by A.S. Peterson
2 Words: Pirates and Fiddles
3 Settings/Characters: 1.Fin Button - main character. A girl put in an orphanage, because her father wanted a boy. She is adventurous, tortured, learning to understand herself 2.Bartimaeus - fiddle playing cook with much more in his past than anyone imagined 3. The Rattlesnake - a pirate ship that Fin learns to call home
4 Likes/Dislikes: 1.Loved the spirit of Fin! She was a strong,female character and I cared deeply about her by the end of the book 2. Liked the action and the surprises. Starting in an orphanage and ending on a pirate ship really mixes it up. 3.Liked the historical background that the author built this story around. 4.Loved how this story made me feel connected to it. I was drawn in and finished quickly. Can't wait for the next book!
5 Stars or Less: 4.5 Stars
This book is also being discussed on Kate and Amy's Book Club on Facebook. If you have read it you should join the discussion. If you haven't be forewarned their might be spoilers in the disucssion. A.S. Peterson has also joined in and answered reader questions!
Friday, April 23, 2010
Yes, I still read...in between all the other junk in my life!
It has been so long since I last blogged that I am not even sure I really remember all the tricks!
I had some family things come up that took me away from the blogger's life. My daughter had ankle surgery at the end of July and was doing physical therapy. She was released the last week in October to play softball again, and injured herself in the first game - concussion, shoulder injury. We had to start therapy over and in December they decided she needed ANOTHER SURGERY! That happened at the end of December. Just today she was released from her PT for that. During all of this she also developed severe stomach pain and we spent ALOT of time at the Dr, ER, Urgent Care to find a cause. It turned out to be minor, but took a long time to find the cause.
Add other children,work, starting a new workout program, financial stress, anxiety disorder starting to return, etc and my blog fell to the side. It was like life took me to the alley and beat the crap out of me!
Most of my issues are still around, but life feels under control again. I have continued to stalk many blogs, publishers, tweets, etc. I have missed all the interaction. I have decided, however, that I am going to go about this blogging thing more lightly. I have always been hard on myself with my writing and how often I reviewed, but now I am going to be more ME. My friends who know me IRL say I am so funny in person and so serious on the blog. My new goal is to throw in some more of my personality while still reviewing books and making blogging friends.
I do plan to review some, but not all of these. I have an opinion on everyone though if you want to know what I think!
See you soon...in the BLOG ZONE
I had some family things come up that took me away from the blogger's life. My daughter had ankle surgery at the end of July and was doing physical therapy. She was released the last week in October to play softball again, and injured herself in the first game - concussion, shoulder injury. We had to start therapy over and in December they decided she needed ANOTHER SURGERY! That happened at the end of December. Just today she was released from her PT for that. During all of this she also developed severe stomach pain and we spent ALOT of time at the Dr, ER, Urgent Care to find a cause. It turned out to be minor, but took a long time to find the cause.
Add other children,work, starting a new workout program, financial stress, anxiety disorder starting to return, etc and my blog fell to the side. It was like life took me to the alley and beat the crap out of me!
Most of my issues are still around, but life feels under control again. I have continued to stalk many blogs, publishers, tweets, etc. I have missed all the interaction. I have decided, however, that I am going to go about this blogging thing more lightly. I have always been hard on myself with my writing and how often I reviewed, but now I am going to be more ME. My friends who know me IRL say I am so funny in person and so serious on the blog. My new goal is to throw in some more of my personality while still reviewing books and making blogging friends.
Here is a list of what I have read since I have been gone (give or take a few). Doctor's offices really lend time to lots of reading!
Major Pettigrew's Last Stand - Helen Simonson
Knit the Season - Kate Jacobs
The Interrogative Mood: A Novel? - Padgett Powell
The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Recipes from an Accidental Country Girl - Ree Drummond
Raji - Ariion Kathleen Brindley
Prayer for Owen Meany - John Irving
The Help - Kathryn Sockett(didn't re-read but had a book club and discussed)
A Blue and Gray Christmas - Joan Medicott
According to Jane - Marilyn Brant
The Wives of Henry Oades - Johanna Moran
The Wrong Mother - Sophie Hannah
The Opposite of Me - Sarah Pekkanen
The Fiddler's Gun - A.S. Peterson (currently discussing on FB book club)
Conversations with Jerry and Other People I Thought Were Dead - Irene Kendig
Divorce Sucks - Mary Jo Eustace
Still Alice - Lisa Genova
Currently Reading:
The Passage by Justin Cronin
I do plan to review some, but not all of these. I have an opinion on everyone though if you want to know what I think!
See you soon...in the BLOG ZONE
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Show Me 5 Saturday
Welcome to my Meme!
Each Saturday You will post the answer to these questions. The number indicates the number of answers you will provide.
1 Book you read and/or reviewed this week
2 Words that describe the book
3 Settings where it took place or characters you met
4 Things you liked and/or disliked about it
5 Stars or less for your rating?
1 Book: The Secret of Joy by Melissa Senate
2 Words: Secret Sister
3 Settings/Characters: 1.Rebecca Strand - she has lost both parents and just found out she has a sister in Maine, 2.Joy Jayhawk - the "secret" sister who isn't thrilled to meet Rebecca, 3.Wiscasset Maine the town Rebecca travels to in hopes of meeting Joy
4 Likes/Dislikes: 1.I liked the plot - the idea of a secret sibling out there that I could find and connect with, though the way she came about was not positive 2.I liked that this was chick lit with some depth. Connecting with a sister and being the sister that was "thrown away"creates some emotional scenes. 3.I liked growing with Rachel as she became more comfortable with herself and what she wanted out of life 4.I liked the other characters that were woven into the storyline. I enjoyed their personalities and stories.
5 Stars or Less: 4 Stars
Thanks to Sarah at Pocket Books for providing me this book for review. I will be giving a full review on November 17th when several blogs will be participating in a book blog tour.
Megan's Way by Melissa Foster - Wattpad
Megan's Way is being featured on Wattpad right now. Join the online book community and vote!
I am especially excited because the opening lines on the feature page are a quote from That's A Novel Idea! Yay me! And, yay Melissa Foster for her much deserved success with this novel. You must read it!
Click on this link to vote for Megan's Way
Megan's Way, by Melissa Foster - writingcontest - Wattpad
I am especially excited because the opening lines on the feature page are a quote from That's A Novel Idea! Yay me! And, yay Melissa Foster for her much deserved success with this novel. You must read it!
Click on this link to vote for Megan's Way
Megan's Way, by Melissa Foster - writingcontest - Wattpad
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