The Book Owl

The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff

2010-12-20T08:00:00.000-08:00

The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff

Publication Date/Version: September 2010/Hardcover

Publisher: Razorbill

Age Group: Young Adult

Received From: Around The World Tours (Thanks!)

Mackie Doyle seems like everyone else in the perfect little town of Gentry, but he is living with a fatal secret - he is a Replacement, left in the crib of a human baby sixteen years ago. Now the creatures under the hill want him back, and Mackie must decide where he really belongs and what he really wants.

A month ago, Mackie might have told them to buzz off. But now, with a budding relationship with tough, wounded, beautiful Tate, Mackie has too much to lose. Will love finally make him worthy of the human world?

Mackie is a Replacement, a castoff, whatever you want to call him. Years ago he was swapped for a human child from underneath the town of Gentry. The people of this small town know that their prosperity depends on the happiness of the creatures below the ground, and talk of the odd occurrences is forbidden. The citizens pretend as if nothing happens. When Tate's little sister is taken, however, Mackie feels he must do something, as his health is quickly declining and he feels that he must in order to reverse the backwardness of the small town.

The Replacement is a chilling and, often times, gruesome debut. Ms. Yovanoff brings a new aspect to the worn out YA paranormal genre with a book that's sure to find itself loved in the hands of fans of horror, paranormal, and good story telling.

Mackie is a character that you are instantly sympathetic for. With his odd circumstances, he has never fully fit in, except with his sister and very small group of friends. His allergies to metal keep him out of cars, wary of kitchen utensils, and as far away from school blood drives as possible. With his health deteriorating, he is approached by a stranger who tells him that he is dying. This stranger seems to be one of Mackie's kind, and, soon, Mackie will find out that there are many more like him above the ground.

After the disappearance of Tate's, Mackie's somewhat crush, little sister, he feels it's his duty to find her. Because he's dying, he figures he might as well. As he learns more about the warring underworlds and their grievances with the humans, things only become more complicated and twisted and even more terrifying. What goes on down there, as well as above, are the kinds of things that keep you awake at night. And Mackie must face them with the help of his loyal friends.

Brenna does a wonderful job weaving a story and its lore. I was intrigued as the why the underworld people acted as they did. Mackie was interesting, and it was easy to understand his pain. The supporting characters were each unique, with Roswell being a favorite. What I found most compelling about this novel is the fact that Mackie fits in with neither the underworld creatures, nor the regular humans - he's always an outsider - as well as the fact that even the scary creatures felt lonely and neglected. There was one particular scene involving Mackie and one of the dead girls that really struck a chord with me. Her pain was so evident, and his simple gesture was refreshing.

I encourage all of the Young Adult audience to pick this up, as I believe everyone will find something to love about The Replacement.

Overall: Atmospheric. Creepy and gruesome. Strong emotions and depth. Great supporting characters.

My Advice: Buy it or borrow it. It's a great fall read.

The Cover: That is one of the scariest, greatest covers I have seen. It ties in perfectly with the novel and really sets the right mood.

*This was read as a part of the 2010 Debut Author Challenge and the 100+ Reading Challenge

Blog Tour: Guest Post and Giveaway by Albert Borris, author of Crash Into Me

2010-11-09T12:00:00.000-08:00

Please join me in welcoming Albert Borris, author of Crash Into Me. Today, I am lucky enough to share an exceprt from his book with you.

About Crash Into Me:

Owen, Frank, Audrey, and Jin-Ae have one thing in common: they all want to die. When they meet online after each attempts suicide and fails, the four teens make a deadly pact: they will escape together on a summer road trip to visit the sites of celebrity suicides...and at their final destination, they will all end their lives. As they drive cross-country, bonding over their dark impulses, sharing their deepest secrets and desires, living it up, hooking up, and becoming true friends, each must decide whether life is worth living--or if there's no turning back.

Throughout the book, Owen makes lists, and below is one of them.

Top Ten Ways to Kill Yourself on Television:

1. Blind-folded Execution

2. Skate into a bus

3. Tied on train tracks dressed like Barney Rubble

4. Walk the plank on a Pirate Ship

5. Wear a fish suit in a shark tank

6. Samurai Sword Fight with balloon guns

7. Soak yourself in gasoline and hold a burning candle

8. Drive off the top of a parking garage in an Ice Cream Truck

9. Catapult into the side of a Mountain

10. Sky-dive without a parachute onto a trampoline

*copyrighted by Albert Borris

For more info on Albert and suicide prevention visit his website here.

And now, for the best part! I am happy to announce that I have one copy of Crash Into Me to give away thanks to Albert. Please see the details below.

Information:

- Contest will run until Sunday, November 20th, 2010

- Open to the US only

- Enter here

Good luck!

Blog Tour: Guest Post by Andrea Cremer, author of Nightshade

2010-09-25T17:00:00.000-07:00

Please join me in welcoming Andrea Cremer, author of Nightshade. Today, she's here to tell us about some Young Adult books that are must-reads!

Reading Recs, or Spreading the Love

One of the best parts of being an author is meeting other authors. I’ve been able to meet my writing heroes and heroines over the past several months and it has been amazing. I read as much as I can, so my recommendations here are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to great books. The following titles are a few of my recent favorites:

Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green and David Levithan.

Two brilliant authors who are two wonderful people write a book about two awesome boys, both named Will Grayson. I got to hang out with John and David at ALA and I’m still going through withdrawal – I wish I could see them every day! This story about self-discovery, friendship, and loyalty made me laugh out loud and cry. It’s beautifully written and full of surprises. John Green and David Levithan each write books on their own too – and they are all amazing, pick any one of them up and you’re in for a treat.

The Demon’s Lexicon series by Sarah Rees Brennan

The first book has a fabulous twist. The second book features a kick-ass heroine. All of it takes place in England, one of my favorite countries and is full of an original mythology that is fascinating and compelling. I love the characters Sarah has created and I’m dying for the third book in this trilogy to hit shelves!

Personal Demons by Lisa Desrochers

Lisa is my critique partner so I’ve been lucky to read this book and its sequel, Original Sin, early. You can pick it up September 14! Lisa has offered an original spin on the battle between Heaven and Hell with a no-nonsense, sassy heroine and two phenomenally sexy boys trying to win her heart (and soul). Lisa’s books are delicious and addictive!

Lament and Ballad by Maggie Stiefvater

I love The Wolves of Mercy Falls series, which Maggie is best known for, but her books focusing on faerie lore are my favorites by this gifted author. Not a series, but companion novels Lament and Ballad are achingly beautiful. The joys and sorrows of Maggie’s characters haunt you well after you’ve finished the books. If you haven’t checked out these books (published by Flux) you should.

The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff

Speaking of faerie lore, Brenna’s debut hits shelves in September. This book hit me hard, but in a good way. It’s a frightening and slightly disturbing interpretation of ugliness and beauty, good and evil. The protagonist is Mackie – a very unique young man – he’s a changeling, a faerie child left in place of a human child who’s been stolen. Unlike other faeries, Mackie is trying hard to be part of his human family and their world, despite the fact that it’s slowly killing him. I loved this story which is in turns sweet and horrifying.

Thanks for joining us Andrea!

Blog Tour: Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

2010-09-24T18:23:00.000-07:00

Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

Publication Date/Version: October 2010/Hardcover
Publisher: Philomel
Age Group: Young Adult
Received From: Publisher

Calla Tor has always known her destiny: After graduating from the Mountain School, she'll be the mate of sexy alpha wolf Ren Laroche and fight with him, side by side, ruling their pack and guarding sacred sites for the Keepers. But when she violates her masters' laws by saving a beautiful human boy out for a hike, Calla begins to question her fate, her existence, and the very essence of the world she has known. By following her heart, she might lose everything--including her own life. Is forbidden love worth the ultimate sacrifice?

A bit animal-like, a whole lot sexy, and plenty of action. Nightshade is a whirlwind debut that tops the charts as one-of-those paranormal books. Ranking with Raised by Wolves and Spell Hunters, this one hits all kinds of new levels.

Calla is a strong, no nonsense kind of girl. The kind you actually want to read about. She's certainly no pushover, and you get that immediately from the story. She's tough and fights for what she wants. We're drawn in instantly to her major problem - saving a human boy, violating pack rules. Soon after, she begins to question everything she's known about the pack and just how truthful they really are.

Meet her two rival boys, Ren and Shay. Ren is the soon-to-be alpha male of the pack Calla and Ren are destined to create. He's the hot boy with a heart just for Calla. He's not without his flaws, but he is willing to stop it all for Calla. Then comes along Shay, the boy Calla saves from certain death. He's not afraid of the pack, though he should be. He fights for Calla and crosses more than a few boundaries doing so. I preferred the relationship between Ren and Calla as it was hot and exciting. I didn't feel the chemistry between her and Shay, but apparently she did. Either way, it didn't detract much from the plot.

Fast-paced and full of action, the insanity never stops in Nightshade. The pack is intense and demanding, while Calla's secrets draw her away from her duties and friends. There's nonstop intrigue and you can't help but flip the pages. This hefty book only took me a couple days to read. I highly recommend Cremer's debut, and I cannot wait for the next installment, Wolfsbane!

Overall: Hot chemistry, dynamic pack, full of intrigue.

My Advice: Buy a copy.

Cover: Loving it. The colors are great, and I especially enjoy the flowers that look as though there's been a bit of bloodshed.

*This book was read as a part of the 100+ Reading Challenge and the 2010 Debut Author Challenge

Review: The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson

2010-09-06T22:16:00.000-07:00

The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson

Publication Date/Version: March 2010/Hardcover

Publisher: Dial

Age Group: Young Adult

Received From: Publisher

Seventeen-year-old Lennie Walker, bookworm and band geek, plays second clarinet and spends her time tucked safely and happily in the shadow of her fiery older sister, Bailey. But when Bailey dies abruptly, Lennie is catapulted to center stage of her own life—and, despite her nonexistent history with boys, suddenly finds herself struggling to balance two.

Toby was Bailey’s boyfriend; his grief mirrors Lennie’s own. Joe is the new boy in town, a transplant from Paris whose nearly magical grin is matched only by his musical talent. For Lennie, they’re the sun and the moon; one boy takes her out of her sorrow, the other comforts her in it. But just like their celestial counterparts, they can’t collide without the whole wide world exploding.

Similar to Cath Crowley's A Little Wanting Song, The Sky is Everywhere delivers on romance and prose. These two books fall into their own special category of writing. It's beyond emotional, beyond evocative, beyond anything else. It's near perfection in a book. Writing as good as this hits true emotions and makes you nod along saying Yes! That's exactly what it feels like. Jandy Nelson is a writer who is able to put into words what everyone feels but can't describe.

Bailey faces the classic dilemma of having two boys both vying for her heart. One is her sister's old boyfriend, who shares her pain but also causes enormous amounts of grief. The other is a new boy who lights up her world, bringing sunshine and music to the dark corners of her mind. Does she want to remember her sorrow, or forget it completely? The decision is complicated, and we're taken along through each of Bailey's thoughts. The beginning of each chapter starts with a poem or a few words written on trash scattered throughout the town - all of which are touching and simple. The Sky is Everywhere is one of those book where I wish I had a notebook handy to write down each gorgeous phrase I came across.

Though the characters were a-okay after such a long fight - one of my pet peeves - I really can't detract much from the story because of a few plot points. The words and weight of this book are ultimately redeeming. This is a book you can't judge based on character arc or dramatic tension. Instead, it's one of those books you judge on the quality of life, the emotions it portrays, and the simple elegance of its words. It's touching, inspiring, and gosh darn near perfect.

Overall: I really shouldn't have to explain at this point. I already said gosh darn near perfect.

My Advice: Buy it.

Cover: I didn't initially love it, but it's growing on me. I prefer the UK cover, as that one's gorgeous.

*This was read as a part of the 2010 Debut Author Challenge and the 100+ Reading Challenge

School: Why I Love, and Despise, You

2010-09-05T23:05:00.000-07:00

Fall is creeping up on us and, unfortunately, for a large majority of the population, that means one thing: school. Whether you love it, dread it, or just like to see your friends, it's always there. And now, the reasons for my love-hate relationship, which I'm sure many of you will agree with.

Love:

1. Seeing my friends! That first day back, or, for me, the first football game (which happened before the first day,) is the best feeling, especially as a now upperclassman. I'm a junior! Seeing all of your old friends is great, and it's even better to say hi to people you don't talk to much. Everyone's just happy to see each other.

2. Being an upperclassman! It's about darn time. Now I get automatic rights for all of the good things in school life: front row at all of the games, ability to walk under the minuscule cover when it rains, parting of the hallways. I'm stoked.

3. Talking to new people! Whether it's transfers or incoming freshman, it's nice to make someone's day by simply acknowledging them. And it's great when someone I don't really know strikes up a conversation with me.

4. New classes! Yep, I said it. I have tons of fun going to all of my new classes, meeting teachers, and starting in on those Lit books!

5. School spirit! Dressing up for games, getting decked out in team colors, yelling 'til you're hoarse...that's the life of a teenager.

Dislike:

1. Summer homework! I take a couple AP classes which inevitably means summer homework. I'm 40 hours in and counting. Bring it on. Oh, and if my history teacher assigns one more mind-numbingly boring book, I don't know what I'm going to do.

2. The dreaded school picture! Now this can really be a plus or a minus, but planning is terrible, as is the anticipation to see how your picture turned out. Way too stressful.

3. No free time! Between sports, homework, and general school activities, when I am supposed to live? Or eat or shower for that matter? For me, it's wake up at 5:30 and go to bed by 10:00, if I'm lucky. Thank goodness for my friends who always get coffee - I couldn't survive without mooching off of them!

4. Homework! I've got 7 subjects, and that means a lot of homework. 3-4 hours average, 7 if it's bad. I will not miss those days.

5. Stress and the inevitable forgetful moments! Yes, for some reason, you always manage to forget the test in your hardest class or to do homework in that one class. It happens, and it sucks.

School, with its highs and lows, isn't everyone's favorite but I think we can all agree that it's one of the most memorable of exciting times of our lives!

In My Mailbox or The Fed Ex Guy is Sneaky

2010-09-04T17:55:00.000-07:00

IMM is a weekly meme that explores the contents of one's mailbox. IMM was started by Kristi at The Story Siren. I'm doing it a bit differently now. I will be taking pictures, including an interesting title as I'm tired of numbers and why I received it (a la Alea of Pop Culture Junkie.)

Crave by Laura J. Burns and Melinda Metz (Accepted Review Copy)

Echoes by Melinda Metz (Accepted Review Copy)

Kiss Me Deadly: 13 Tales of Paranormal Love edited by Trisha Telep (Accepted Review Copy) - Fed Ex dropped this one off, and because I never open my door for them (hehe) he left it on my porch. I walked out, looked around, and didn't see it so I came back inside. I thought maybe it was a package I had to sign for, but I decided to look again. He had wedged it in a corner behind our potted plant, under its leaves. Very sneaky... I do like that about Fed Ex though. They always put our packages out of a passerby's viewpoint.

The Death by Bikini Mysteries (Books 1-3) by Linda Gerber (Paperback Swap) - What a surprise! I thought I was receiving a copy of the first book, but I ended up getting all three in one book.

Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles (Bought) - Thanks to a gift card from my awesome Grandma!

The Indigo Notebook by Laura Resau (Random Buzzers Program)

Do you like the way I'm doing IMM now? Or do you like the old way?

I had a good week! How was yours?

I'm participating in the Banned Books Reading Challenge!

2010-09-02T16:54:00.000-07:00

The lovely Steph of Steph Su Reads has issued a Banned Books Reading Challenge, and I plan on taking part! You can read more about it and sign up here. This is my main post, in which I will be outlining my goals and linking to reviews.

Often times I find myself recommending book to certain age groups based on their content, but who am I to judge? I look forward to break boundaries and defying those who think they can control me. Bring on those oh so bad banned books.

My goal is to read at least 2 banned or challenged books. I'm starting out small, but maybe I'll read more. I would like to check out:

Crank by Ellen Hopkins
The Bermudez Triangle by Maureen Johnson
The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier
Olive's Ocean by Kevin Henkes

Review: Blue Plate Special by Michelle D. Kwasney

2010-09-01T13:57:00.001-07:00

Blue Plate Special by Michelle D. Kwasney

Publication Date/Version: September 2009/Hardcover

Publisher: Chronicle Books

Age Group: Young Adult

Received From: Publisher

Big Macs and pop tunes mask the emptiness as Madeline watches her mom drink away their welfare checks. Until the day Tad, a quirky McDonald's counter boy, asks Madeline out for a date, and she gets her first taste of normal. But with a life that's anything but, how long can normal really last?

Hanging with Jeremy, avoiding Mam, sticking Do Not Disturb Post-its on her heart, Desiree's mission is simple: party hard, graduate (well, maybe), get out of town. But after Desiree accepts half a meatball grinder, a cold drink, and a ride from her mother's boyfriend on rainy afternoon, nothing is ever simple again.

Too many AP classes. Workaholic mom. Dad in prison. Still, Ariel's sultry new boyfriend, Shane, manages to make even the worst days delicious. But when a trip to visit the sick grandmother she's never met reveals her family's dark past, Ariel struggles to find the courage to make the right choice for her own future.

Blue Plate Special is one of those stories that really gets to you. It starts as just another teenagers with problems book, but Michelle weaves together intrigue, wit, and awkwardness into a classic coming of age story that defies preset standards.

Madeline, Desiree, and Ariel. All young girls with their whole lives ahead of them, stuck in problem situations. All are connected, but none know it just quite yet. As time flashes from one point of view to the next, each young woman offers a glimpse into hard times and just what it means to be a fighter. Their situations are heart-wrenching at worst, manageable at best, but their connections are undeniable.

Kwasney has created a compelling storyline that can stand completely on its own. It flows between characters with ease, each offering up a different attitude and time period. Michelle manages to show how love and hurt transcends all boundaries, as well as just how connected we all really are. The plot kept me moving at a steady pace as I simply had to find out what happened to each girl, to see whether they had enough fight to get out of their situation.

The great storyline left me so blinded that in the final chapters, when everything was coming together and connections were revealed, I was in shock. How had I missed all of the key moments and clues? It should have been so obvious, but it wasn't. Those last few chapters delivered gut-wrenching punch after punch, leaving you to piece it all together and contemplate what you've just realized. A second read-through is required for me; I hope to find the connections that I missed the first time.

Overall: Innovative. A must read. One of my favorites of 2010.

My Advice: Buy a copy, that simple.

Cover: The simple design and over scheme are inviting. The broken pieces of one whole represent the book's major theme. Well done.

*This was read as a part of the 100+ Reading Challenge

Blogging Break

2010-08-28T18:22:00.000-07:00

These couple weeks of time left before school starts are very busy for me, so I've decided to take a break from blogging. I'm not sure how long this will be - at least until my summer homework is finished and I'm caught up on my real life commitments. I'm still reading review books, meaning I will have reviews when I get back. Thanks to my understanding followers!

In My Mailbox (49)

2010-08-22T10:00:00.000-07:00

IMM is a weekly meme that explores the contents of one's mailbox. IMM was started by Kristi at The Story Siren. Descriptions are from Goodreads.

For Review:

The Secret Society of the Pink Crystal Ball by Risa Green

(ARC/Releases September 2010/Sourcebooks Fire)

When Erin Channing's favorite aunt dies, Erin is bequeathed a pink crystal ball and a set of weird instructions. Granted, Aunt Kiki (aka Aunt Kooky) always lived "outside the box." But now Erin and her two best friends are convinced that the pink crystal ball holds the key to their future-or at least the key to getting dates...

Jumbee by Pamela Keyes

(ARC/Releases October 2010/Dial)

Seventeen-year-old Esti Legard spent her childhood in the Shakespearean world of her famous father, and when he died, she knew she could never give up acting. After she and her mother move to a Caribbean island for her senior year, she realizes that nothing at her new school's theater department is quite as it seems. Stunned by the death of a fellow student on her first day of class, Esti is soon surrounded by legends of the wicked jumbees that haunt the West Indies. She finds herself snubbed by the school’s star actress and relegated to a minor part in Romeo and Juliet.

Only her intriguing new friend, the elusive Alan, shares her passion for Shakespeare. Hiding in the dark recesses of the theater, he leads Esti deep into her own soul to explore the limits of her talent. When Esti's childhood best friend moves to the island and back into her life, however, Alan disappears. Rocked by growing accusations of befriending a jumbee, Esti realizes she must find out who – or what – Alan really is. She is soon forced to defy everyone and everything she’s ever believed in, as she plunges into the mysteries of Shakespeare and the legends of the West Indians, discovering shocking truths about her own past that will forever shape her future.

I love the setting for this book!

I had a bit of a slow week, but that's alright! I'm really looking forward to the books I have. How'd you do?

Review: The Jaguar Stones by J&P Voelkel

2010-08-20T19:21:00.000-07:00

The Jaguar Stones by J&P Volekel

Publication Date/Version: April 2010/Paperback and Hardcover

Publisher: Egmont

Age Group: Middle Grade with Young Adult appeal

Received From: Publisher

Fourteen-year-old Max Murphy, video-gamer extraordinaire, is furious when his archaeologist parents cancel the family vacation to go on a dig in Central America. But things go from bad to worse when Max is summoned to join them, only to discover that his parents have vanished. With the help of Lola, a fast-talking, quick-thinking Maya girl, Max embarks on a quest to find out just what’s going on. Soon Max and Lola are running for their lives in the perilous rainforest, as they unlock ancient secrets, meet mysterious strangers, and begin to understand that, in San Xavier, nothing is ever as it seems.

Fate has delivered a challenge of epic proportions to Max Murphy. But can a teen whose biggest talent is for video games rescue his parents from the Maya Underworld and save himself from the villainous Lords of Death?

Max, a spoiled boy from Boston, is thrown into a whirlwind of ancient Mayan culture. When his archaeologist parents disappear, it's up to him to find them and bring them back. There are more than a few obstacles in his way, however. He comes across thieving monkeys, a Mayan girl, stones with the power to destroy the world, and a few bad guys who are out to get them.

The Jaguar Stones is an action-packed novel that will appeal to Middle Grade readers, as well as those in the Young Adult category who love adventure or history. I also recommend this to boys who can't seem to find a good book.

Max, who is initially and continually a very whiny character who luckily deals with that problem later on, is the unsuspecting victim of a huge quest to find the Jaguar Stones and save the world from the Lords of Death. While far-fetched, the story is made interesting by lots of Mayan history. I've always had a fascination with ancient cultures, and this book really fed my appetite. I'm so glad to have picked it up, as I learned a ton and enjoyed one of the most action-filled stories I've read in a long time. The culture of the Mayans resonated on such a large scale in The Jaguar Stones; the basic facts and rituals were incredibly neat, and I know that anyone who enjoys history will love this book.

As I said, Max is initially annoying but he gradually develops into a selfless character. Lola, a Mayan girl, is feisty, independent, and courageous. I'm adding her to my list of good role models. She fights for what she believes in and will do anything to protect her people. The plot was complicated and the book lengthy at 400 pages, a bit so for MG readers. For these reasons, I recommend this book to upper MG readers or Young Adult readers. The plot never slowed down, and I felt as though I were in an awesome Indiana Jones film.

I could really tell that J&P Voelkel did a large amount of research, and I really appreciate that. This book could have been average, based on Mayan facts that everyone knows, but I learned a lot and was introduced to a fascinating culture. I am immensely excited for book two!

Overall: Tons of action. Exciting plot. Fascinating culture. Great for MG and YA readers.

My Advice: Buy a copy if my review has interested you at all

The Cover: Very literal covers can be hit-and-miss, but I'm really fond of this one. The text is interesting, and the image accurately portrays an intense scene in the story.

*This was read as a part of the 100+ Reading Challenge

Wednesday Wishlist (26)

2010-08-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

This post is inspired by Stargirlreads at Books Make Great Lovers. In Wishlist Wednesday, I'll showcase a book that may or may not be out yet that I would love to review and cannot wait to read! Links and descriptions are from Goodreads. Here's what's on my wishlist this week:

The Sweetness of Salt
by Cecilia Galante

Julia just graduated as her high school valedictorian, has a full ride to college in the fall and a coveted summer internship clerking for a federal judge. But when her older sister, Sophie, shows up at the graduation determined to reveal some long buried secrets, Julia's carefully constructed plans come to a halt. Instead of the summer she had painstakingly laid out, Julia follows Sophie back to Vermont, where Sophie is opening a bakery - and struggling with some secrets of her own. What follows is a summer of revelations - some heartwarming, some heartbreaking, and all slowly pointing Julia toward a new understanding of both herself and of the sister she never really knew.

Reasons I want to read this:
1. I love the cover - its images and color combinations, especially the way the text is laid out
2. I enjoy stories like this: ones in which a family is shaken up by secrets
3. I'm in the mood for contemporary fiction

Teaser Tuesday (19)

2010-08-17T20:22:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading in which one grabs her current read, opens to a random page, and gives two "teaser" sentences from that page.

"He spoke in an admiring whisper. "The Black Jaguar of Ah Pukuh...lost for centuries...But where did you get it?"

Page 59, Middleworld: The Jaguar Stones by J&P Voelkel

Enjoy!

Review: Zillah's Gift by Lois West Duffy

2010-08-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

Zillah's Gift by Lois West Duffy

Publication Date/Version: August 2009/Paperback

Publisher: Beaver's Pond Press

Age Group: Middle Grade/Young Adult appeal

Received From: Reader Views Kids

Zillah is an orphan in ancient Persia living in a caravan serai--a safe haven for desert travelers. Other children taunt her because of a birth-mark on her face and strangers think it is the sign of a curse. Her future is grim until a royal caravan comes to the serai, following a wondrous star. Zillah has seen that star, though it is invisible to those around her.

Through a series of amazing events, Zillah embarks on an adventure, full of danger, trying to protect her most precious secret.

Zillah is a simple girl living in a caravan serai in the Persian desert. She works under her oppressive aunt and uncle, hoping to one day gain her freedom. A birthmark across her face scares many, leading to taunts and jokes. Zillah, however, is strong and knows that she will do something greater with her life. When a royal caravan comes through and notices her curiosity, Zillah is taken on their journey following a glorious star that only some can see.

I went into Zillah's Gift expecting simple storytelling and, overall, an average book. This is once again a case of don't judge a book by its cover! I was plunged into a rich setting, interesting time period, and wonderful story.

Zillah is a headstrong, independent young girl who is full of respectable morals and wishes. She was the kind of character that you root for from the beginning. Ms. Duffy had a fairly simple way of telling the story, but it was captivating nonetheless. The details were plentiful and I could easily see the picturesque setting.

I am a big fan of historical fiction, and I was pleased to find that Zillah's Gift took place in a time period that I have never read about. It was pleasantly surprising, and I'm eager to seek out more stories in this time period.

Zillah's Gift is a gem of a surprise, with a touching story packed inside of a great setting. I recommend this to everyone, especially those who enjoy historical fiction.

Overall: A surprisingly wonderful read. Interesting setting. Great storytelling.

My Advice: Buy it. I'm happy to put it on my shelf.

The Cover: It fits the story well, with the girl and camel, the star, and the letters that look as though they've been worn down by desert sand. I love the colors of the sunset as well.

*This was read as a part of the 100+ Reading Challenge

In My Mailbox (48)

2010-08-15T10:00:00.000-07:00

IMM is a weekly meme that explores the contents of one's mailbox. IMM was started by Kristi at The Story Siren. Descriptions are from Goodreads.

For Review:

The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff

(ARC/Releases September 2010/Razorbill)

I received this from Around The World Tours. I'm reading it right now and enjoying it quite a bit.

Fledgling: Jason Steed by Mark A. Cooper

(ARC/Releases September 2010/Sourcebooks Jabberwocky)

Jason Steed is looking for a place to call home. He finds what he's looking for in the Sea Cadets - an elite group of British youngsters being groomed for lifelong service in the military. But when a routine training exercise goes awry, Jason finds himself in the middle of a secret mission. The future of the world hangs in the balance...and Jason might be the only one who can save it.

This isn't my normal read, but I'm actually very excited to pick it up!

My Soul to Take by Rachel Vincent

(PB/August 2009/Harlequin Teen)

She doesn't see dead people, but…

She senses when someone near her is about to die. And when that happens, a force beyond her control compels her to scream bloody murder. Literally.

Kaylee just wants to enjoy having caught the attention of the hottest guy in school. But a normal date is hard to come by when Nash seems to know more about her need to scream than she does. And when classmates start dropping dead for no apparent reason, only Kaylee knows who'll be next…

I received this for review from the Harlequin Teen panel which I love! I've been wanting to read this book for a long time, so I'm excited to finally own it.

Swapped:
Jumping Off Swings by Jo Knowles

I had a good week! How about you?

Wednesday Wishlist (25)

2010-08-11T17:12:00.000-07:00

Entangled
by Cat Clarke

Grace meets enigmatic Ethan the night she's planning to kill herself. The next morning she wakes up in a strange room with a table, chair, pens and paper. There's nothing to do but write, and as she writes, Grace remembers the things she's tried so hard to forget.

The hazy memories lead Grace into a dark place where friendship, heartbreak and betrayal tangle together...

Reason I want to read this:
1. The premise makes it seem as though this will be a deep, well-thought out novel.
2. Why is she in that room? And why do her, well, captors want her to write? I must find out!
3. The combination of colors on the cover is gorgeous.
4. Unfortunately, this is releasing in the UK, not the US.

ps. Sorry for my absence. I haven't been in a blogging mood lately.

In My Mailbox (47)

2010-08-07T19:32:00.000-07:00

IMM is a weekly meme that explores the contents of one's mailbox. IMM was started by Kristi at The Story Siren. Descriptions are from Goodreads.

For Review:

Graffiti Moon by Cath Crowley
(PB/August 2010 in Australia/Pan Macmillan Australia)

It’s the end of Year 12. Lucy’s looking for Shadow, the graffiti artist everyone talks about.

His work is all over the city, but he is nowhere.

Ed, the last guy she wants to see at the moment, says he knows where to find him. He takes Lucy on an all-night search to places where Shadow’s thoughts about heartbreak and escape echo around the city walls.

But the one thing Lucy can’t see is the one thing that’s right before her eyes.

Cath was kind enough to send me a copy of this after I loved her previous book, A Little Wanting Song, so much!

Swapped:

The Summoning by Kelly Armstrong

The past two weeks I've only received two books, but it's actually been a really nice break! I removed myself from all tour websites which takes off tons of stress. I finally came to terms that I was obsessed with them. ;] Hope you had a great week in books!

One Year Blogoversary!

2010-08-06T20:00:00.000-07:00

That's right everyone - today is my one year blogoversary! It's thanks to all of you and your lovely comments, as well as a few handfuls of amazing books, that I continue to enjoy my blogging duties. No, sorry, there's no giant contest. All I have to offer are my thanks...

...And some nummy cupcakes. Hope to see you this time next year!

Mini Reviews (4)

2010-08-05T14:48:00.000-07:00

Mini Reviews is composed of, well, small reviews. These will likely be books I read forever ago or didn't enjoy a whole lot, but did finish. These reviews will be short and sweet.

Shadow Hills by Anastasia Hopcus

This one really drew me in and kept me reading. I was fascinated by Phe's odd powers, and I really wish we heard more about those. The concept as a whole was interesting, and the plot progressed quickly. There was a large array of characters, and the mystery added a lot to the story. I had an idea of what was going on, but I liked the feeling of figuring things out with Phe. While this isn't one of my favorites, I look forward to the next book.

Not Ordinarily Borrowable: or, Unwelcome Advice by Thomas Thurman

This book was positive in some places and lacking in others. My main complaint is that I feel as though this book is being marketed to the wrong audience. I believe this would make a great picture book for young children, but as a MG/YA book, it offers little. I can easily see small children enjoying this story along with great drawings, but for the audience I write to, it's much too repetitive and it shows rather than tells.

Forget-Het-Nots by Amy Brecount White

I wanted to like this book, I really did, but it just wasn't for me. The idea of a flower language was intriguing, and while it was fully fleshed out, it didn't hold my attention well enough. If there had been even more mystery or suspense, I believe I would have enjoyed this more. It was, however, much to young for what I thought would be a YA book. This book is better suited for MG readers. I think they will find the mystery aspect more suitable for them, as well as the overall level of character maturity.

Harmonic Feedback by Tara Kelly

Ah, the horrors of waiting a long time to review a book! All of the fault falls upon me and my procrastinating ways. This book was one that I enjoyed a lot at the time. I think I may reread it. The story was heartfelt, as were the characters. They were very real, simply themselves. The end was a shock to me, and I remember being a bit teary-eyed. All in all, it was a good read that I recommend.

Wednesday Wishlist (24)

2010-08-04T19:05:00.000-07:00

The Twin's Daughter
by Lauren Baratz-Logsted

Lucy Sexton is stunned when a disheveled woman appears at the door one day... a woman who bears an uncanny resemblance to Lucy's own beautiful mother. It turns out the two women are identical twins, separated at birth, and raised in dramatically different circumstances. Lucy's mother quickly resolves to give her less fortunate sister the kind of life she has never known. And the transformation in Aunt Helen is indeed remarkable. But when Helen begins to imitate her sister in every way, even Lucy isn't sure at times which twin is which. Can Helen really be trusted, or does her sweet face mask a chilling agenda?

Reasons I want to read this:
1. What a concept!
2. It vaguely reminds me of The Prophecy of the Sisters which I really enjoyed.
3. I like the cover - how there's two obvious images and how they create an image in their void

Contest Winners!

2010-08-04T18:59:00.001-07:00

I have multiple contest winners to announce!

The three lucky winners of Lost For Words are:

Taylor!

Alex!

Riv!

The lucky winner of one set of the Zan-Gah series is:

Kisha!

The lucky winner of a copy of Mockingbird and other book-related goodies is:

Abhishek!

Congrats to all of the winners. Thanks to everyone who entered.

Teaser Tuesday (18)

2010-08-03T16:10:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading in which one grabs her current read, opens to a random page, and gives two "teaser" sentences from that page.

"Gaia sopped a bit of clean rag into her cup of tea, absorbing the last hot liquid, and then wiped it over the ankle, cleaning it. She dipped the needle in the brown ink, held it briefly to the light, and then, swiftly, as she had done before under her mother's guidance, she pressed the pin into the baby's ankle in four rapid pricks."

Page 4, Birthmarked by Caragh M. O'Brien

Enjoy!

I have returned

2010-08-02T16:46:00.000-07:00

I'm back everyone! I just thought I would let you know. I'm going through comments and answering emails. Look forward to posts. It's nice to see all of you again.

Updates!

2010-07-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hey all! I'm currently gone at the moment, so I've got a couple of things to say.

1. Don't worry if your comments aren't going through! I have moderation on, so they won't show up until I get back and am able to go through all of them. Also, I have scheduled some posts, as you can see, but a lot of it was rather last minute, so you might not see posts every day this week. I'm enjoying my time off and trying not to stress about the blog.

2. I know that at least one of my contests has expired, and one may in the very near future. It's okay if you enter past the date I have listed as the entry closure date - I didn't know I would be gone so those contests will be extended. I'll end them when I get back, and then I'll announce the winners.

3. IMM will be postponed until next week. I have absolutely no idea what I've received this week, so you'll see two weeks worth of books the following week.

Catch you all later!

Wednesday Wishlist (23)

2010-07-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

Tweet Heart
by Elizabeth Rudnick

Claire is a #hopelessromantic. Lottie is determined to set up her BFF with Mr. Perfect. Will wants his #secretcrush to finally notice him. Bennett is a man with a plan.

Claire can’t believe it when her dream guy starts following her on Twitter. She never thought he noticed her, and suddenly he seems to understand her better than almost anyone.

But the Twitterverse can be a confusing place, especially when friends act differently online than they do in person. Things get even more complicated when Claire realizes she’s falling for someone else, the last person she ever would have expected….

Reasons I want to read this:
1. It sounds like such a cute story line!
2. Love the adorable cover.
3. I really enjoy books told in alternate forms (email, diary entries, etc.)

Teaser Tuesday (17)

2010-07-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading in which one grabs her current read, opens to a random page, and gives two "teaser" sentences from that page.

"I wrapped my arms around her; my fingers froze for a half second s they grazed her bra strap. I took in her scent - her familiar vanilla practically hidden by a coffee smell."

Page 15, Saving Maddie by Varian Johnson

Enjoy!

The Clearing by Heather Davis

2010-07-26T08:00:00.000-07:00

The Clearing by Heather Davis

Publication Date/Version: April 2010/Paperback

Publisher: Graphia

Age Group: Young Adult

Received From: Around The World Tours (Thanks!)

Amy, a sixteen-year-old recovering from an abusive relationship, moves to the country to start a new life with her aunt–all she wants is for everything to be different. In the clearing at the back of Aunt Mae’s property, she makes an amazing discovery—Henry, a boy stuck in the endless summer of 1944. Henry and his world become Amy’s refuge and she begins to learn that some moments are worth savoring. But when the past and present come crashing together, both of them must find the courage to face what is meant to be, even if it means losing each other forever.

Moving from a big city to her aunt's small, country home after a relationship with a bad outcome, Amy has a lot to get used to. It's alright with her, though. She wants, and needs, things to be different. Just how different things will get, however, is beyond Amy's imagination. After wandering through a strange mist behind her aunt's house, Amy meets Henry, a boy stuck quite literally in the past. What develops is a real, hopeful love. Because of Henry's situation, things unfortunately can't stay as there are forever.

The Clearing is my first novel by Heather Davis, and based on its tone and setting, I look forward to picking up more.

Amy comes across as a brash character throughout the novel, but she's not without her reasons. Her attitude irked me at times, mainly when she was hurting genuinely nice characters without knowing it, but I also understand her need to protect herself. I'm glad this took place in the country, not the city, as I believe it helped add to the serene romance that took place. It was one of those settings that you wished you could have as a child, one of those gorgeous places to grow up. Rockville was a quaint country town where the neighbors are friendly and people make blueberry jam. Davis created the setting perfectly, and without it the book wouldn't have been what it was.

Told in alternation perspectives, you can see Amy and Henry's relationship progress slowly, but in a lovely way. Henry was the classic gentleman - ladies first, hold the door, don't make her uncomfortable. He never pushed Amy or asked for anything she didn't want to give. His demeanor was refreshing in a genre that's riddled with bad boys. I absolutely adored the progression of the relationship, as it was sweet and simple, but oh so deep. This was true, real love, not just lust. And I enjoyed every minute of it.

Henry's situation was an odd one, but luckily it was explained well. My mind couldn't fully comprehend what was happening, but that wasn't the point. It created a perfect opportunity for love to bloom, and, in this story, that was all that mattered.

The only thing that leaves me torn about this book is the ending. While it fits the book well, it left me a bit wistful. I wanted more than what I was given. I think that's just me, though.

Overall: Lovely romance. Serene setting. A perfect gentleman.

My Advice: Buy it or borrow it. It's really up to you.

The Cover: I love the washed effect of the blues and greens, as well as the picture in the middle. The girl in the red dress is absolutely perfect for the story. I could have done without the "True love is timeless" and the boy, as they don't fit my perceptions of the book.

*This was read as a part of the 100+ Reading Challenge

Onward Bound to the Happiest Place on Earth!

2010-07-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

Yes folks, I'm talking about Disneyland. My best friend and her family are going down to California for a bit over a week, and they're kind enough to bring me along. I, therefore, will be gone from this blog starting today until about next Sunday. I'm already gone at this point - I had to get up at 4 because we're driving. Whoopee. In the meantime, I'll be going to Disneyland, hitting up an L.A. Dodgers games, and wake boarding. So excited! I have posts scheduled, so you won't even know I'm gone. And with my awesome new phone, I'll be able to reply to your emails, so no worries there! See you all when I get back.

In My Mailbox (46)

2010-07-24T14:47:00.000-07:00

IMM is a weekly meme that explores the contents of one's mailbox. IMM was started by Kristi at The Story Siren. Descriptions are from Goodreads.

For Review:

The Clearing by Heather Davis

(PB/April 2010/Graphia)

I've already read this, and I really enjoyed it! I received this from Around The World Tours.

No and Me by Delphine de Vigan

(ARC/Releases August 2010/Bloomsbury Children's)

Parisian teenager Lou has an IQ of 160, OCD tendencies, and a mother who has suffered from depression for years. But Lou is about to change her life—and that of her parents—all because of a school project about homeless teens. While doing research, Lou meets No, a teenage girl living on the streets. As their friendship grows, Lou bravely asks her parents if No can live with them, and is astonished when they agree. No’s presence forces Lou’s family to come to terms with a secret tragedy. But can this shaky, newfound family continue to live together when No’s own past comes back to haunt her?

I've finished this one as well. Look forward to a review soon! I received this from A round The World Tours.

The Line by Teri Hall

(ARC/Released March 2010/Dial)

An invisible, uncrossable physical barrier encloses the Unified States. The Line is the part of the border that lopped off part of the country, dooming the inhabitants to an unknown fate when the enemy used a banned weapon. It’s said that bizarre creatures and superhumans live on the other side, in Away. Nobody except tough old Ms. Moore would ever live next to the Line.

Nobody but Rachel and her mother, who went to live there after Rachel’s dad died in the last war. It’s a safe, quiet life. Until Rachel finds a mysterious recorded message that can only have come from Away. The voice is asking for help.

Who sent the message? Why is her mother so protective? And to what lengths is Rachel willing to go in order to do what she thinks is right?

I received this from Around The World Tours. I've finished it, and I'm really looking forward to the sequel!

Dream of Night by Heather Henson

(HC/May 2010/Atheneum)

An abused horse. A damaged girl. A last chance for both...

I actually already have an ARC of this which I haven't read, but it's nice to have a finished copy!

The Fire Opal by Regina McBride

(HC/May 2010/Delacorte)

There was a time when Maeve O'Tullagh led a simple life; a time when she and her mother, Nuala, collected kelp on the foreshore near their cottage in Ard Macha; a time when she played among the Celtic ruins with her older brothers and daydreamed about the legendary Holy Isles, an enchanted land ruled in a past age by a beautiful goddess.

But after Maeve's sister, Ishleen, is born, her mother sinks into a deep, impenetrable trance. For years, Maeve tries to help her mother "awaken," and then the unthinkable happens: Ishleen succumbs to the same mysterious ailment as Nuala.

Heartbroken to think that her sister and her mother might be lost to her forever, Maeve sets off on an unimaginable quest to a world filled with fantastical creatures, a web of secrets, a handsome, devious villain who will stop at nothing to have her hand in marriage—braving them all to retrieve a powerful glowing stone that will help her recover the souls of her loved ones and bring them home to Ard Macha.

I received this from Bookdivas for review. I hope there's some good legends or lore behind the story.

Saving Maddie by Varian Johnson

(HC/March 2010/Delacorte)

Joshua Wynn is a preacher’s son and a “good boy” who always does the right thing. Until Maddie comes back to town. Maddie is the daughter of the former associate pastor of Joshua’s church, and his childhood crush. Now Maddie is all grown up, gorgeous—and troubled. She wears provocative clothes to church, cusses, drinks, and fools around with older men. Joshua’s ears burn just listening to the things she did to get kicked out of boarding school, and her own home.

As time goes on, Josh goes against his parents and his own better instincts to keep Maddie from completely capsizing. Along the way, he begins to question his own rigid understanding of God and whether, as his mother says, a girl like Maddie is beyond redemption. Maddie leads Josh further astray than any girl ever has . . . but is there a way to reconcile his love for her and his love for his life in the church?

Sounds like a really good concept! I also received this from Bookdivas for review.

Hunger by Jackie Morse Kessler

(ARC/Releases October 2010/Graphia)

“Thou art the Black Rider. Go thee out unto the world.”

Lisabeth Lewis has a black steed, a set of scales, and a new job: she’s been appointed Famine. How will an anorexic seventeen-year-old girl from the suburbs fare as one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse?

Traveling the world on her steed gives Lisa freedom from her troubles at home: her constant battle with hunger, and her struggle to hide it from the people who care about her. But being Famine forces her to go places where hunger is a painful part of everyday life, and to face the horrifying effects of her phenomenal power. Can Lisa find a way to harness that power — and the courage to battle her own inner demons?

Doesn't this sound good?! I was so stoked to get a copy! I never realized how small it was - only 180 pages.

Emma and the Vampires by Jane Austen and Wayne Josephson

(PB/Releases August 2010/Sourcebooks Landmark)

The Regency-era comedy of manners finds Jane Austen's beloved title character, Emma Woodhouse, attempting to arrange the affairs of the young ladies and gentleman vampires, including Mr. Knightley, in her social circle with delightfully disastrous results.

I received this from the publisher for review. I've yet to read a retelling like this, but I look forward to it!

Songs for a Teenage Nomad by Kim Culbertson

(ARC/Releases September 2010/Sourcebooks Fire)

After living in twelve places in eight years with her drifting mother, fourteen year old Calle Smith finds herself in Andreas Bay, California, at the start of ninth grade. Fearful of putting down roots anywhere, but armed with her song journal, she moves to her own soundtrack through a world that bounces her between the school drama crowd, a mysterious loner, and an unlikely boy who will become her first love. But it's the troubling truth Calle uncovers about the father she thought abandoned her that forces Calle to face the toughest choice of her young life.

Thanks to the publisher for this one, as well. Love the cover!

Won:

Prophecy of Days: The Daykeeper's Grimoire by Christy Raedeke (Prize from Once Upon a Read-a-Thon)

The Iron King by Julia Kagawa (From Harlequin Teen Panel Discussion)

I had a great week! What about you?

Contest: Mockingbird and goodies

2010-07-23T11:19:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the wonderful Kathryn Erskine, I am able to offer 1 signed copy of Mockingbird, as well as some book related goodies to give away! You can read my interview and review.

In Caitlin’s world, everything is black or white. Things are good or bad. Anything in between is confusing. That’s the stuff Caitlin’s older brother, Devon, has always explained. But now Devon’s dead and Dad is no help at all. Caitlin wants to get over it, but as an eleven-year-old girl with Asperger’s, she doesn’t know how. When she reads the definition of closure, she realizes that is what she needs. In her search for it, Caitlin discovers that not everything is black and white—the world is full of colors—messy and beautiful.

Information:

Contest Closed

Good luck!

Interview: Kathryn Erskine, author of Mockingbird

2010-07-23T10:56:00.000-07:00

Please join me in welcoming Kathryn Erskine, author of Mockingbird. You can read my review here. Kathryn grew up in Europe, Africa, Canada, and the United States, and was a lawyer before she figured out what she really wanted to be when she grew up--a writer! She takes her inspiration from the world around her and from her personal experiences, including her childhood attending 8 different schools. Lots of great writing material, and there's more every day!

1. Please describe Mockingbird in 50 words or less.
Ten-year-old Caitlin, who has Asperger’s Syndrome, struggles to understand emotions, show empathy, and make friends at school, especially after the death of her brother, her social link to the world. Working to find closure, she helps her family and her community come to terms with the school shooting tragedy.

2. What inspired you to write Mockingbird? What do you think the book's cover?
I was inspired to write Mockingbird because my daughter has Asperger’s. I used the school shooting event (which transpires before the book opens) because I was so affected by the Virginia Tech shootings in 2007. I thought that, maybe, if the shooter had received some help over the years, he might have felt heard and others might have understood him better. Mockingbird is all about walking in each other’s shoes and learning to understand each other better, which is why I tell it from the point of view of Caitlin, a girl with Asperger’s.

At first I wasn’t sure about the cover. People either love it or hate it. Fortunately, most people love it. I think it’s beautifully pure and simple.

3. The one book everyone should read?
To Kill a Mockingbird. It’s no coincidence that I reference it both in my book’s title and in the story.

4. Looking at your biography, I see you've lived in numerous places. (Israel, South Africa, Scotland...) Did you enjoying living so many places? If you could chose one place to travel to, where would it be and why?
I loved travelling and experiencing other cultures. There’s so much to learn and appreciate beyond our borders. I felt very lucky. As I write this, my sister is in New Zealand, which is one place I’d love to visit, as well as Australia. I have to say, though, if I could pick just one place, I’d love to go back to southern Africa, specifically, Botswana. There’s something about Africa that gets under your skin and never leaves you—the languages, the music, the people, the sunsets, the wildlife—it’s a breathtaking world.

5. Are you working on anything at the moment? If so, please tell us a bit about it.
I’m currently working on Cornerstone, a novel about a boy who confronts the racism in his community while dealing with the death of his father. He learns that people, past and present, aren’t always what they seem, and that picking sides isn’t as easy as you think.

6. Any last words?
I just finished edits on The Absolute Value of Mike, which will be out a year from now (Philomel, Summer 2011), about a boy with a math learning disability and a genius for a father. Mike spends the summer with wacky relatives and ends up doing something pretty amazing.

Please visit me at http://www.kathrynerskine.com/ where you can get my news, playlists, and fun photo writing prompts, or at my blog, http://kathyerskine.wordpress.com/, or on facebook or twitter.

Thanks for interviewing me, McKenzie!

Thanks so much for stopping by Kathryn!

Deception by Lee Nichols

2010-07-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

Deception by Lee Nichols

Publication Date/Version: June 2010/Hardcover and Paperback
Publisher: Bloomsbury

Age Group: Young Adult

Received From: Around The World Tours (Thanks!)

After enrolling at Thatcher Academy, Emma settles in by making friends with the popular legacy crowd. But she can't shake the strange visions that are haunting her. She has memories of Thatcher she can't explain, as if she's returning home to a place she's never been. Emma doesn't trust anyone anymore—except maybe Bennett. But he's about to reveal a ghostly secret to Emma. One that will explain the visions . . . and make Emma fear for her life.

After being reported to Child Services because her parents have seemingly abandoned her, Emma is taken to Echo Point by Bennett, her older brother's friend whom she's always had a crush on. Things haven't been right lately with Emma, though. She can feel the presence of ghosts, as well as see them. Most of them are kind, but others seek to do harm. Emma must learn to control her gifts with the help of others like her before darkness strikes again.

Why haven't I read ghost stories lately? I don't know, but Nichols made it clear to me that I need to pick up more! I had no idea I would enjoy a story like this as much as I did. While the beginning had me wary, I quickly warmed to this book and I'm glad I delved in.

Emma, though she seemed a bit too typical in the beginning, shows herself to be a truly lovable main character. She's nice, mature, and handles her situation well. She respected the ghosts that surrounded, while many others treated them as servants. That aspect was what I admired most about her. She seemed to be a kind and nurturing person, one you would like to know in real life.

The story started out a bit odd, only for the first 30 pages or so, but the confusing events were explained later on. I loved the atmosphere of Echo Point, a quaint New England town, as well as the manor that Emma resided in while there. Nichols managed to take a worn out paranormal genre and add something completely new to the mix. I was fascinated by Emma's powers, as well as her daily experience with ghosts. She saw them everywhere - home, school, parties.

Helping her all the while, though they didn't know the specifics, were her wonderful friends. hey were perfect: understanding, humorous, and always there. The amount of lovable characters in this book tops most all other books.

The ending came as a bit of a shock. And whoo boy, what a cliffhanger! I'm eagerly awaiting the sequel.

Overall: Great, engaging characters. Beautiful setting. Amazing plot. A must read.

My Advice: If you're a fan of paranormal in the least, buy this. I'm excited to have my own copy.

Cover: It really fits the story with the manor, the girl, and the jade necklace. I would like to see something different with the title treatment, as it's a bit blah and plain. But, overall, I like it.

*This was read as a part of the 2010 Debut Author Challenge and the 100+ Reading Challenge

Wednesday Wishlist (22)

2010-07-21T11:34:00.000-07:00

Dark Water
by Laura McNeal

Fifteen-year-old Pearl DeWitt and her mother live in Fallbrook, California, where it’s sunny 340 days of the year, and where her uncle owns a grove of 900 avocado trees. Uncle Hoyt hires migrant workers regularly, but Pearl doesn’t pay much attention to them . . . until Amiel. From the moment she sees him, Pearl is drawn to this boy who keeps to himself, fears being caught by la migra, and is mysteriously unable to talk. And after coming across Amiel’s makeshift hut near Agua Prieta Creek, Pearl falls into a precarious friendship—and a forbidden romance.

Then the wildfires strike. Fallbrook—the town of marigolds and palms, blood oranges and sweet limes—is threatened by the Agua Prieta fire, and a mandatory evacuation order is issued. But Pearl knows that Amiel is in the direct path of the fire, with no one to warn him, no way to get out. Slipping away from safety and her family, Pearl moves toward the dark creek, where the smoke has become air, the air smoke.

Reasons I want to read this:

1. That cover is stunning
2. Sounds unlike anything I've read before
3. Based on the description, I get the feeling the writing will be gorgeous. "The town of marigolds and palms, blood oranges and sweet limes." Isn't that evocative?

Bookish News: Cover and Winners!

2010-07-20T14:38:00.000-07:00

Hey all. Two things to talk about:

1. The cover of The Lost Saint!

Um, yeah, I know. Check it out. All I can say is: I need that nail polish! And yes, Bree herself says there will be a TLS nail polish. I need it to match my TDD nail polish. *looks at nails* Hmm, they're rather bare. After this post, you can bet I'll be using my TDD polish. :] To see the whole post, go here.

2. I have one lucky winner to announce! They will receive a copy of Wayfarer by R.J. Anderson. And the winner is:

Rose!

Congratulations! Thanks to everyone who entered, and good luck in future contests.

Interview: Sean McCartney, author of Secrets of the Magical Medallions

2010-07-19T15:21:00.000-07:00

Please join me in welcoming Sean McCartney, author of Secrets of the Magical Medallions. Sean Paul McCartney (He’s not related to the Beatle) was born in 1971. He graduated from Alfred University in upstate New York with a Bachelor’s in Communications in 1993. From there he played two exciting season traveling around the world with the Washington Generals playing against the world famous Harlem Globetrotters. In 1996 Sean earned his Masters in Education and embarked on a career as a teacher. He is employed by Plain Local Schools in Canton, OH.

1. Please describe Secrets of the Magical Medallions in 50 words or less.

It is a fast paced, informative and exciting read. I consider it a cross between the mystery of the Hardy Boys with the action-adventure of Indiana Jones and National Treasure.

2. What inspired you to write Secrets...?

I wanted to create a series that I would have liked as a kid. The more I thought about it treasure hunting seemed perfect because anyone can do it. You don't need special powers. Also I saw a spot for this type of series. 39 Clues is ending. Percy Jackson has ended as well as Harry Potter and I think its time for a new series.

3. If you could travel anywhere, where would it be and why?

I got the opportunity to travel around the world and play against the Harlem Globetrotters as a member of the Washington Generals. So I have been about everywhere but I would like to go to Australia. I think they have such a rich history and they seem to be having fun much of the time.

4. What is one of your favorite Middle Grade or Young Adult book?

In my younger days I really liked the Hardy Boys and The Chronicles of Narnia but currently I like the Percy Jackson series and I really enjoyed Harry Potter.

5. Are you working on anything at the moment? If so, please tell us a bit about it. I am working on the second Treasure Hunters Club book. I am not going to reveal too much though because its not fair to do that with a work in progress. Suffice to say the adventure takes the club out of state and after a most cherished lost treasure.

6. Any last words?

First off, to McKenzie, thank you for the interview. I am new to the publishing world and I really appreciate you taking the time. Second please take a moment to visit my website at http://www.treasurehuntersclubbook.com/ and get a better idea of the series. Lastly, and I won't beg, because begging isn't dignified, go buy a book or two. It's a good read.

Thanks so much for joining us Sean!

White Cat by Holly Black

2010-07-18T13:51:00.000-07:00

White Cat by Holly Black

Publication Date/Version: May 2010/Hardcover

Publisher: McElderry Books

Age Group: Young Adult
Received From: Around The World Tours (Thanks!)

Cassel comes from a family of curse workers -- people who have the power to change your emotions, your memories, your luck, by the slightest touch of their hands. And since curse work is illegal, they're all mobsters, or con artists. Except for Cassel. He hasn't got the magic touch, so he's an outsider, the straight kid in a crooked family. You just have to ignore one small detail -- he killed his best friend, Lila, three years ago.

Ever since, Cassel has carefully built up a façade of normalcy, blending into the crowd. But his façade starts crumbling when he starts sleepwalking, propelled into the night by terrifying dreams about a white cat that wants to tell him something. He's noticing other disturbing things, too, including the strange behavior of his two brothers. They are keeping secrets from him, caught up in a mysterious plot. As Cassel begins to suspect he's part of a huge con game, he also wonders what really happened to Lila. Could she still be alive? To find that out, Cassel will have to out-con the conmen.

Cassel is part of a curse worker family. They can block your memories, change your emotions, and cause you physical pain. Cassel, however, cannot. He resorts to lying and conning, as does the rest of the family because curse work is illegal. Little does he know, his best friend, the one he thought he killed, may not be dead, and he may be a part of a con larger than any he's ever known.

While I loved Holly Black's Tithe, and while White Cat had all of the makings of a great book, it didn't have that special something that made me love it.

Cassel is an obviously intriguing character with lots to hide and plenty of ways to do so. His family history is rich and creates a great setting. While it may seem hard to connect with a compulsive liar, we were allowed access to his feelings and thoughts, so I quickly felt for him. The story's beginning had me a bit confused, but that's to be expected from a book abut conmen.

Cassel's family consisted of a whole cast of characters, from kooky mom, to loving grandfather, to shady brother. I enjoyed Cassel, but the other characters, except for his grandfather, fell somewhat flat for me. I didn't connect with them on any level, and I didn't enjoy hearing about them, as many seemed cold and without emotions.

The plot itself was exciting and really kept me guessing. It's the type of story I love - it reminds me of Ocean's 11, 12, 13, and The Bourne trilogy, my favorite set of movies ever. It had all of the makings of a book I would love, but it didn't have that special something to make it shine and stand out from the rest, which, as you can imagine, really upset me and is still irking me as I write this.

I don't know what more to ask for from this book, but it didn't have that one, elusive something to make it special. It's still a solid read, but not one I'll be going back to. I may pick up the sequel, if there is one, but I don't know how much I'll pursue this series.

Overall: Really interesting plot. Flat characters. All the makings of a great book, but missing that special something.

My Advice: Borrow it. It's a solid read.

Cover: I love Cassel's face and hair. He looks absolutely gorgeous. I wish we could see his eyes, but at the same time it's incredibly smart when compared to the book's subject, because conmen read eyes and the emotions they show. So, it makes sense that his eyes would be covered. I don't like the title or name treatment, though. It takes up way too much space.

*This was read as a part of the 100+ Reading Challenge

A Field Guide for Heartbreakers by Kristen Tracy

2010-07-17T18:00:00.000-07:00

A Field Guide for Heartbreakers by Kristen Tracy

Publication Date/Version: June 2010/Hardcover

Publisher: Disney Hyperion

Age Group: Young Adult

Received From: Around The World Tours (Thanks!)

When best friends Dessy and Veronica arrive in Prague for a prestigious writing workshop, their priorities diverge. Dessy, fragile from a recent breakup, has come to mend her broken heart by honing her craft. Veronica has just dumped her boyfriend and plans to blow off the workshop. She’d rather master a different subject—boys. Veronica gets right to work on her “man-wall”—one paper cutout for every hot-dude she meets— and embarks on her mission to cover a wall of their dorm by summer’s end. At times, Dessy thinks her friend might be a genius. At others, Veronica seems more like an agent of chaos.

As if their love lives weren’t complicated enough, soon a homicidal suitemate is bent on killing Veronica and Dessy, and both girls are hiding secrets that could wreck their friendship. Well, no one ever said breaking hearts was a simple craft....

Dessy and Veronica are off to Prague for a summer of writing and boys. Both girls have recently broken up with, or been broken up with, their boyfriends. Dessy wants to work on her writing. Veronica, however, is set to create a "man wall" - a collection of every hot guy she meets. What ensues is chaos, first of all, and madness.

What I hoped to be a light, fun summer read unfortunately didn't turn out well for me. The concept initially interested me, but I felt it lacked sympathetic characters or a steady plot.

Dessy is a somewhat blah character. There were moments when I saw a glimmer of a like-able character, but those moments were either replaced by groveling or complying. I didn't feel for her, or her need to be liked. Veronica, I can easily say, was one of my least favorite best friend characters ever. I must have missed the part where friends are supposed to be rude and inconsiderate towards their "friend." Veronica didn't think about her actions, and I, personally, can't stand people who are unaccountable for their actions. The guys, as well, somewhat blended together.

What I did enjoy about this book was the writing aspect, the infusion of culture, and Veronica's mom. I enjoyed reading the character's stories and hearing the critiques. It gave an interesting twist to the story. I loved hearing about Prague and its history, as I'm a huge fan of all things history. It sounds like a beautiful place to visit. Veronica's mother was one character I truly liked. She was real and tough, which I mightily enjoyed. Though haughty at times, she was a breath of fresh air.

The psycho killer roommate aspect was just too much for me. I didn't, and still don't, exactly understand what her problem was. But the whole thing was rather inconceivable. I didn't get what I hoped out of A Field Guide for Heartbreakers, and it's not a book I'll be recommending.

Overall: Poor characters. Shaky plot.

My Advice: Skip it.

Cover: While it's cute, I have no idea what it has to do with the story.

*This was read as a part of the 100+ Reading Challenge

In My Mailbox (45)

2010-07-17T16:29:00.000-07:00

IMM is a weekly meme that explores the contents of one's mailbox. IMM was started by Kristi at The Story Siren. Descriptions are from Goodreads.

For Review:

White Cat by Holly Black
(ARC/Released May 2010/McElderry Books)

Cassel comes from a family of curse workers -- people who have the power to change your emotions, your memories, your luck, by the slightest touch of their hands. And since curse work is illegal, they're all mobsters, or con artists. Except for Cassel. He hasn't got the magic touch, so he's an outsider, the straight kid in a crooked family. You just have to ignore one small detail -- he killed his best friend, Lila, three years ago.

Ever since, Cassel has carefully built up a façade of normalcy, blending into the crowd. But his façade starts crumbling when he starts sleepwalking, propelled into the night by terrifying dreams about a white cat that wants to tell him something. He's noticing other disturbing things, too, including the strange behavior of his two brothers. They are keeping secrets from him, caught up in a mysterious plot. As Cassel begins to suspect he's part of a huge con game, he also wonders what really happened to Lila. Could she still be alive? To find that out, Cassel will have to out-con the conmen.

Thanks to Around The World Tours for this one. I've already read it, and I will have a review posted soon.

Deception by Lee Nichols
(ARC/Released June 2010/Bloomsbury)

When Emma Vaile's parents leave on mysterious business trip, it gives her the perfect excuse to be a rebellious teen. Throw some parties, get a tattoo (or maybe just a piercing), and enjoy the first few weeks of her junior year. Then her best friend stops talking to her, the cops crash her party, and Emma finds herself in the hands of a new guardian—her college-age "knight in J.Crew armor," Bennett Stern—and on a plane to his museum-like mansion in New England.

After enrolling at Thatcher Academy, Emma settles in by making friends with the popular legacy crowd. But she can't shake the strange visions that are haunting her. She has memories of Thatcher she can't explain, as if she's returning home to a place she's never been. Emma doesn't trust anyone anymore—except maybe Bennett. But he's about to reveal a ghostly secret to Emma. One that will explain the visions . . . and make Emma fear for her life.

Thanks to Around The World Tours for this one as well. I'm almost done with it, and I've enjoyed it immensely. I hope the ending's good!

Won:

Borderline by Allan Stratton (Thanks Kelsey!)

A Matter of Magic by Patricia C. Wrede (Thanks Celi.a!) (The cover is amazing, and I can't wait to read it!)

The Mosts by Melissa Senate (From Random Buzzers ARC giveaways)
The Life and Opinions of Amy Finawitz by Laura Toffler-Corrie (Goodreads First Reads Program)

Traded:

Possessions by Nancy Holder

Gift:

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (PB)

My library's awesome! If you sign up for the teen summer reading program - all you do is put your name and phone number on a slip of paper - you get to choose a free book. And this was one of them! You can imagine my excitement as 1. I haven't read this yet and 2. I love paperbacks!

Bought:

Nancy Drew: Trail of the Twister

Okay, so this is a PC game. But I absolutely love them, so I thought I would include it.

I had a great week! What about you?

Me: An Inquest!

2010-07-16T10:22:00.000-07:00

Yes folks, it's that time. I've never told you much about myself, but here it is! I like to know bloggers personally, but I'm setting up quite the contradiction as I never tell you, my lovely readers, much about myself. So, to acquaint myself with all of you further, here I am.

Let's start with the basics:

Name: McKenzie

Age: 16

Birthday: September 29th

Eye Color: Brown/Hazel

Hair Color: Brown

Height: Almost 5'8", just a bit under

Now, for the specifics. I'm going to share a few interesting tidbits that I hope you enjoy and that I hope give you a glimpse into my life.

1. I live in a very small town of about 4,000 people. But I live 20 minutes away from a city of about 150,000 people - the perfect size for me - where I spend the majority of my time. I live in a rural area. I live by the woods, on a cute little hill, with my mom, dad, and sheep. Our sheep don't really do anything besides eat down the grass. They're just there. So no, I don't get up early to feed them or anything.

These aren't specifically my sheep; it's just a general picture. But that's exactly what they look like. Cute, huh? I go to the fair every year and pass out ribbons to the sheep show-ers. Basically, some of my family runs the sheep section of the fair, and people bring their best sheep and have them judged. You win money, which is the incentive. And I pass out the ribbons. Yes, it makes me laugh too.

2. I'm a rather contradictory person. I love hanging out with my friends, but I also really enjoy being alone. I'm serious, but I'm goofy. I'm lazy, but I love sports. I like having plans, but I love spontaneity. It's all really back and forth. I once had to take a personality test for school, and when I finished it literally told me I had no personality and that I had to retake the test and talk to a guidance counselor. As you can imagine, I wasn't going to waste another 40 minutes or talk to a counselor when I knew I had a personality. I guess I really am just that split in half. Please people, understand that I'm not a no-personality-weirdo. I didn't expect computer programs to read my personality anyways.

(Sorry, had to cross out my school's name. It seemed safe.)

3. I'm completely OCD about some things. All items on my desk or table or whatever it is have to be in straight lines and line up. I can't have things thrown around. My biggest OCD tendency is that f I experience something on one side of my body, I have to experience it on the other side. For example, if I touch the edge of a desk with my right hand, I have to touch the edge of the same desk with my left hand. No one really notices and neither do I because it's just routine. I feel unequal if I don't.

4. I like to think I'm a pretty good kid. I don't any of those things that are common in Young Adult books. I've don't party, drink, do drugs, etc. You would find me either reading, bowling, watching movies, or any number of things before I did any of that. My friends and I do average, fun teenager things. We have scary movie marathons, jump on trampoline, go on impromptu bike rides, and go out to eat. I don't want to waste my time with things that will mess me up. I want to have a good life when I'm older. I study hard, take Honors/AP classes, volunteer, and play sports, and have lots of common sense. A little secret: I've gotten straight A's since kindergarten. I'm going to be a junior next year, by the way. I think all of these things show what kind of person I am. People say I'm book smart and people smart. I'm completely happy with myself, and I think that's the most important thing. I wouldn't change.

(Yes, I'm sitting on Santa's lap. A couple friends and I take a picture with Santa every year and we stand/sit in the exact same positions so that we can see how we change over the years. It's pretty cool. I cut them out though, for privacy's sake. And no, I have no idea why all of the pictures I have look like they're from the '70s.)

5. I love learning about the unknown, be it outer space, the deep sea, or ancient civilizations. I think it's fascinating that there are so many things that we can't comprehend or fully understand. I like mysteries. The Lochness monster, Big Foot, Chupacabra. Are they real?! I don't know, but it's fun to believe. I love conspiracy theories. How cool would it be if those crazy theories were true? You know what fascinates me? The universe is continually growing. But what does space grow into? More...space? Isn't that interesting! As you might be able to tell, I love to learn, and I think I'll always be that sort of person.

Well, I hope this has given you a better idea of who I am, or at least what I look like. Thanks for taking the time to read this. I guess that if you have any more questions, you can comment or email me. Adios!

Bookish News and Winners!

2010-07-15T22:28:00.000-07:00

A few things to announce:

1. Wowio is featuring Daniel Rabuzzi's book, The Choir Boats, during the month of July. During this time, you can read the e-book free! Check it out here.

It's being described as “Gulliver’s Travels crossed with The Golden Compass and a dollop of Pride and Prejudice,” and "a muscular, Napoleonic-era fantasy that, like Philip Pullman's Dark Materials series, will appeal to both adult and young adult readers." What a cover, by the way!

2. Bluefields is offering up the first chapter of Being Jamie Baker by Kelly Oram here. I've read it, and boy am I excited to read the whole thing!

An accident that should end in tragedy instead gives seventeen-year-old Jamie Baker a slew of uncontrollable superhuman abilities.

To keep her secret safe Jamie socially exiles herself, earning the title of Rocklin High’s resident ice queen. But during a supercharged encounter with star quarterback Ryan Miller she literally kisses anonymity goodbye. Now the annoyingly irresistible Ryan will stop at nothing to melt the heart of the ice queen and find out what makes her so special.

Unfortunately, Ryan is not the only person on to her secret. Will Jamie learn to contain her unstable powers before being discovered by the media or turned into a government lab rat?

More importantly, can she throw Ryan Miller off her trail before falling in love with him?

3. All of you Facebook fans, keep an eye out for The Hunger Games fan page which will be live next week!

4. I have three lucky winners to announce! Each person will receive a copy of A Little Wanting Song by Cath Crowley. All winners have been contacted. Here they are:

Kisha!

Kirthi!

Shamara!

Thanks to everyone who entered, and good luck in future contests!

Once Upon a Read-a-Thon Wrap Up!

2010-07-14T22:30:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun in my first ever Read-a-Thon! The mini challenges were fun, and I got lots of reading done. I read for about 14 hours. I finished four books and started two.

Finished:

Zillah's Gift by Lois West Duffy

Three Rivers Rising by Jame Richards

Not Ordinarily Borrowable by Thomas Thurman

The Turning: What Curiosity Kills by Helen Ellis

Started:

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

White Cat by Holly Black

In total, I read around 985 pages. Thanks to everyone who made this possible. I had a great time!

The Turning: What Curiosity Kills by Helen Ellis

2010-07-14T14:25:00.000-07:00

The Turning: What Curiosity Kills by Helen Ellis

Publication Date/Version: May 2010/Hardcover

Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire

Age Group: Young Adult

Received From: Publicist (Thanks!)

Mary Richards is a normal sixteen-year-old girl living in Manhattan. Well, almost normal. She goes to private school on the Upper East Side, having been saved from a life of squalor by an adoptive family. But she’s also slowly transforming into a cat.

Struggling to hide her physical metamorphosis, Mary discovers that she isn’t alone. A whole race of cat people prowls the streets of Manhattan at night, including Mary’s long-time crush, Nick.

Aside from heightened feline senses, hanging out with Nick is the best thing about discovering her inner kitty. But Mary’s transformation is special and could decide the outcome of a citywide turf war. She must decide whether to embrace her powerful feline side and become a pack leader or go back to being a normal teenage girl. Can she land on her feet or will curiosity be her downfall?

Mary's been through a lot in her life. She was adopted at a fairly young age, is bullied by the class diva, and now she's turning into a cat. That's right - a cat. Luckily for her, she's not alone. Many other turn cats, as they're called, roam the streets and some even attend her school. After talking to these other turn cats, Mary learns that she's in the middle of a turf war between the domestics and the strays. She, however, is special and set apart from the rest of the cats. Will she sacrifice all that's important to her in order to stop this war?

Sourcebooks Fire is a bit of a new imprint, and I've found that while some books are hits, others are misses. Luckily, this one was a hit for me! I've yet to read Ellis' previous novel, but now I'll be sure to pick it up.

We are first introduced to Mary, along with some strange occurrences. Mary is your average girl and that makes her easy to relate to. Because she's fairly run-of-the-mill, it's easy to imagine her situation as being real. The pace in the beginning is slow, but yet I never found myself bored. I didn't mind the uneven pacing this time.

At such a short length, only 120 pages, it was hard to fully connect with all of the characters. I would have loved to know more about the other cats, as well as Mary's friends. The book's concept was an interesting one, but, like the characters, I wish I was told more about it. I hope to see the mythology of the turning drawn out more in the later installments.

The largest part that irked me about this story was how quickly Mary formed a relationship with Nick. One minute he has a girlfriend, the next he's making out with Mary while she's naked under a blanket. Uh, what? His overall possessiveness of her felt a bit skewed because there wasn't enough time for true emotions to develop.

While this story did have a few flaws, I immensely enjoyed the concept! How cool would it be to be able to transform into a cat? That seems like a pretty good choice of animal. The process was described well, and the powers that came along with it were quite interesting. I look forward to learning more in the sequel.

Overall: Great concept. Too short. Would like to know more history. Look forward to the sequel.

My Advice: I would borrow this, then buy it if you like it. I know it's a bit hit or miss for most people, so I recommend borrowing it first.

Cover: Gorgeous! I love it. The circles of light and those eyes! And look, no whitewashing. I commend Sourcebooks on that. The colors of this cover are mesmerizing. I could look at it all day. It's even prettier in person.

*This was read as a part of the 100+ Reading Challenge

Once Upon a Read-a-Thon Update 2

2010-07-13T23:00:00.000-07:00

My second Read-a-Thon day went really well! I read for about 5.5 hours. Last night, Day 1, I started Not Ordinarily Borrowable by Thomas Thurman. I finished that this morning. It only took me about an hour total to read it. Next I started on The Turning: What Curiosity Kills by Helen Ellis. I really ended up liking that one. It wasn't that long, so it only took me a couple of hours. I spent the majority of my reading time starting Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver. I'm about 1/4 of the way through, and it's fine so far. I've heard it doesn't really pick up 'til later, so I look forward to that. I'll be starting White Cat by Holly Black tomorrow instead of starting with Before I Fall because I remembered White Cat was for a tour!

My reading options for tomorrow are:
White Cat by Holly Black
Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

Forgive My Fins by Tera Lynn Childs

Winter Longing by Tricia Mills

My Mini Challenge Entries:

1. Hosted by Lauren at Lauren's Crammed Bookshelf

Lauren asked us to pick our favorite book we've read during the read-a-thon and write a short review for it.

I really enjoyed Zillah's Gift by Lois West Duffy. I was surprised at the connection I felt towards Zillah, as the novella was only 120 pages long. Duffy created a rich and unique setting, unlike any I've encountered before. Even if you're not religious, this is still a great book to pick up, especially for middle grade readers.

2. Hosted by Jessica at Confessions of a Bookaholic

Jessica has asked us to answer the following questions:

1. Tell me what makes you the most emotional when you read it in a book.

I get really emotional when a main character or their love interest is dying, or when a couple is absolutely perfect for each other, but can't be together.

2. What book has made you the most emotional?

It would have to be Dear John, Forbidden, or Sing Me To Sleep.

3. Hosted by Cynthia at A Blog About Nothing

Cynthia asks us to tell her which book we would love made into a movie, and who we would want to play the main role(s).

I would love to see A Northern Light turned into a movie. I think Emma Watson would make a great Mattie.

Contest: The Zan-Gah Series

2010-07-13T14:27:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Allan and his wonderful publicity team, I am able to offer both Zan-Gah: A Prehistoric Adventure and Zan-Gah and the Beautiful Country to 1 lucky winner! You can see my review and interview.

Zan-Gah seeks his lost twin in a savage prehistoric world, encountering suffering, captivity, tribal conflict. He emerges from an uncertain boyhood to a tried and proven manhood and a position of leadership.

Dael’s disturbed mind engenders violence and division. Zan-Gah must lead his twin brother away from thoughts both destructive and self-destructive as they migrate to a beautiful new land.

Information:

Contest Closed

Good luck!

Interview: Allan Richard Shickman, author of the Zan-Gah series

2010-07-13T14:10:00.000-07:00

Please join me in welcoming Allan Richard Shickman, author of Zan-Gah: A Prehistoric Adventure and Zan-Gah and the Beautiful Country. You can read my review of the first book here. Artist, teacher, author, and historian Allan Richard Shickman was an art history professor at the University of Northern Iowa for three decades. His first novel, Zan-Gah: A Prehistoric Adventure won an Eric Hoffer Notable Book Award and was a finalist for the ForeWord Magazine Book of the Year Award.

1. Please describe Zan-Gah: A Prehistoric Adventure in 50 words or less.
Zan-Gah seeks his lost twin in a savage prehistoric world, encountering suffering, captivity, tribal conflict. He emerges from an uncertain boyhood to a tried and proven manhood and a position of leadership. Themes of survival, brotherhood, cultures, gender roles, psychological trauma, nature’s wonders and terrors. Age 11 and up.

2. What about the sequel, Zan-Gah and the Beautiful Country?

Dael’s disturbed mind engenders violence and division. Zan-Gah must lead his twin brother away from thoughts both destructive and self-destructive as they migrate to a beautiful new land. Themes of war and peace, tribal conflict, traumatic stress, gender roles, sibling rivalry, bereavement, redemption. Age 12, up

3. Why did you choose to write prehistoric fiction? Few people do, but it's such an interesting topic!

Actually, there is a very considerable amount of prehistoric fiction. It is a genre in its own right. Go ahead and search it; see for yourself. I chose the period after a trip across the arid American West because I was inspired to write a tale of survival. Difficult as it could be to survive in deserts and mountains in any period, it seems most remarkable and challenging in an era which was technologically very primitive, as the late paleolithic period was. Notice, I don’t say the people were primitive, just the technology. Maybe we are the primitive ones.

4. What ancient society do you find the most exciting?

Ancient Egypt is extremely fascinating and awe-inspiring. For one thing, it lasted so long!—about ten times as long as the United States has existed, if you take our birthdate to be July 4, 1776. Ancient Greece has to be my favorite, however. I love the art and drama, not only of the Classical Period, but the Hellenistic, when Greek culture spread as far as India. The Romans loved and copied Greek and Hellenistic art. Through them Greece gave us our language, our alphabet, the very word democracy! Is pizza a Greek word? Naahhh. The Renaissance gave us pizza.

5. What's the one book you recommend to everyone?

Off to Russia! If I have to name a single book, it is The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoyevsky. That book practically changed my life, it moved me so much. However, I usually recommend Crime and Punishment by the same author as a lead-in. Not every book is for everyone, is it? I could and do recommend many books. Have you read The Mayor of Casterbridge by Thomas Hardy? It’s another of my favorites. I guess I like gloomy.

(I've yet to read any of those, but I'll be sure to check them out!)

6. Are you working on anything at the moment?

If so, please tell us a bit about it. I have been working on the third book of the Zan-Gah series for quite a while, but I have only started typing in the last few days. Dyno-mite! It picks up where the second book left off, centering on Zan-Gah’s twin brother, Dael. The story continues with Dael’s self-imposed exile, as he seeks some sort of redemption or resolution of his shattered life. He will go to live with the crimson people (introduced already in Zan-Gah and the Beautiful Country). I think I’ll call it Dael and the Painted People, but I have to write it first.

7. Any last words?

Baudelaire wrote a poem about time, the last words of which were: “Die, old coward, it is too late!” That’s what I was thinking of having engraved on my tombstone, but my wife won’t even consider it. And she has the last word on the subject. My last words to my readers and reviewers are: Don’t be in too much of a hurry. The purpose of a good book is not to get done with it. I hope my readers are sorry when Zan-Gah comes to an end. One doesn’t just “read” a good book; one FEELS it. It is not enough for a book to be entertaining. It should be harrowing, enriching, moving. Because it’s not about what happens to the hero, Zan-Gah. It is about what happens to YOU.

Thanks so much for joining us Allan!

Read-a-Thon Update 1

2010-07-12T19:08:00.001-07:00

I'm quite happy with my progress so far! I have put in right around 5 hours of reading, and I've managed to finish two books - Zillah's Gift by Lois West Duff and Three Rivers Rising by Jame Richards, both of which I really ended up enjoying.

My only problem is what to read next. Here are some of my options:

Not Ordinarily Borrowable by Thomas Thurman

The Summer of Moonlight Secrets by Danette Haworth

The Turning: What Curiosity Kills by Helen Ellis

Winter Longing by Tricia Mills

Any ideas? I think I'll start with Not Ordinarily Borrowable first because it's (a) the book I've had for review the longest, (b) very short, and (c) has very large print. So, basically, I should be able to breeze through it. Any other thoughts on which book I should read next?

My Mini Challenge Entries:

1. Hosted by Jenn at Book Crazy

Jenn asked us to pick an image or song that matched our favorite book.

My favorite book is A Northern Light...

...and I choose this image because a large portion of the novel takes place in a cute, lakeside inn. This is somewhat how I imagine it to look.

2. Hosted by Kate at I Just Wanna Sit Here and Read!
Kate asked us to connect a chapter of our current read to a song.

I am choosing Three Rivers Rising. While it doesn't have chapters, per se, there are many sections. I, therefore, am choosing the section that describes the flood hitting Johnstown and the surrounding areas.

The song I choose is Breakdown by Jack Johnson. I think that if the residents knew what was coming, they would want time to stop - or breakdown - so that they could have more time with their family. One of the lines is "Then I could take a walk around/And, see what there is to see." And think this perfectly describes what the citizens would do if they could have had one last chance - look around their town and homes, taking it all in before it got swept away.

3. Hosted by the family at The Eager Readers
They have asked us to post about (a) our favorite fictional couples and (b) a crossover couple we would love to see.

Favorite Fictional Couples:
Ron and Hermoine from Harry Potter
Lochan and Maya in Forbidden
Nora and Patch in Hush, Hush

A Couple Crossover I Would Like To See:
Mattie from A Northern Light and Lochan from Forbidden

Both are highly intelligent and devoted. I believe they would suit each other well.

That's how I'm doing for Day 1 of my first ever Read-a-Thon! If I get more reading done after this post, I will include it in tomorrow's.

Once Upon A Read-a-Thon Start

2010-07-12T12:46:00.000-07:00

Once Upon a Read-a-Thon is hosted by Pure Imagination, Candace's Book Blog, and Reading Angel. It kicks off on Monday, July 12th and goes until Wednesday, July 14th. It's perfect for those who don't have time to read during the weekends. To sign up, go here.
I am currently on summer break, so I have tons of free time to read during the next three days. I will be taking full advantage of it.
Join in the fun and get some reading done!

In My Mailbox (44)

2010-07-10T14:08:00.000-07:00

IMM is a weekly meme that explores the contents of one's mailbox. IMM was started by Kristi at The Story Siren. Descriptions are from Goodreads.

For Review:

The Dark Divine by Bree Despain
(ARC/Released December 2009/Egmont)

Grace Divine - daughter of the local pastor - always knew something terrible happened the night Daniel Kalbi disappeared and her brother Jude came home covered in his own blood.

Now that Daniel's returned, Grace must choose between her growing attraction to him and her loyalty to her brother.

As Grace gets closer to Daniel, she learns the truth about that mysterious night and how t save the ones she loves, but it might cost her the one thing she cherishes the most: her soul.

I finally get to read TDD! I received this from Around The World Tours.

Won:
The Impostor's Daughter by Laurie Sandell
Snowflakes: A Flurry of Adoption Stories by Teresa Kelleher

Both are from the Goodreads First Reads program

Swapped:
Viola in Reel Life by Adriana Trigiani

Bought:
Sisters Revolution by Susan Dunn
American Buffalo by Steven Rinella

Both are for summer homework

Swag:
What I Learned From Being A Cheerleader by Adrianne Ambrose signed stickers

I had a good week! What about you?

Contest: Lost For Words

2010-07-09T22:22:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the wonderful Alice Kuipers and her publicist, I am able to offer 3 copies of Lost For Words to give away! You can read my interview with Alice here.

My New Year's resolution: I'm moving on from everything that's happened. I'm not going to talk about it, think about it, let the memory pounce upon me like a waiting tiger, nothing.

All Sophie wants to do is forget. But it's not easy now that everything's changed. The house feels too big, school drags on for too long, lights are too bright, the room spins, and her hands get sweaty for no reason. And she can't remember why she was ever best friends with Abigail, who is obsessed with parties and boys. Only the new girl, Rosa-Leigh, with her prose poems and utter confidence, might understand. But talking to her seems impossible.

Lost in memories of the life she once had, Sophie retreats into herself. But there's only so long she can keep everything bottled up inside before she explodes. Maybe by confronting the tragedy of her past she'll figure out how to fix her future.

Information:
Contest Closed

Good luck!

Blog Tour: Alice Kuipers, author of Lost For Words

2010-07-09T21:59:00.000-07:00

Please join me in welcoming Alice Kuipers, author of Lost For Words. Alice is making the blogging rounds to drum excitement for her latest novel, and I'm happy to welcome her to The Book Owl. Alice Kuipers was born in London in 1979. She studied at Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan Universities. In 2003, she moved to Saskatoon, Canada, where she now lives. Life on the Refrigerator Door is her first novel.

1. Please describe your new novel in 50 words or less.
All Sophie wants is to forget the tragic events of last summer. Problem is, her world is falling apart - her mum is crazy, her friends hate her, and she can't stop thinking about Emily, or about Dan... Sophie has to face her terrible past, but she doesn't know how.

2. How did you write a story of this kind? What was your inspiration for the book?
Lost For Words was a difficult book for me to write. It's all about dealing with loss and facing up to your worst nightmares so it took me some time to know how was the best way to tell it. In the end, I wrote the book as diary entries. Each entry gives an insight into Sophie and her life; slowly as she writes, she begins to face up to her past.

My last book, Life on the Refrigerator Door, was written in notes. I like having space between the words for readers to fill with their own imagination, so it was a natural step to write Lost For Words with lots of room for a reader to fill in the blanks. Sophie is recovering from something so terrible that she has to fill in the blanks too. For me, the inspiration was the idea of a character who was starting to fall apart - lovely, damaged Sophie. I wanted to know why she was struggling so hard, and so the book was born.

3. What is the significance of the cover? It's absolutely gorgeous!
I love the cover too. Thanks! The girl on the front has blonde hair and dark eyes and is, we discover, Sophie's sister. She is turning away because she is lost to Sophie - like so many things in Sophie's life.

4. Everyone reads classics in high school English. Which ones did you love? Which ones should students never be forced to read?
I don't think anyone should be forced to read anything ever. I remember reading Of Mice and Men in my high school English class and loving it, but I know my best friend didn't feel the same. She was put off reading for years and years because of our English classes and I think it's wrong to turn teenagers off books. My advice to readers is to read widely and to read things they might not have thought they would like - yes, the classics, like Austen and Bronte and Dickens and Shakespeare and Chaucer and the Russians, but also novels about vampires and murders and romance and outer space. Every time you read a book, you live someone else's life. The more you read the better.

5. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
I travel all the time. I'm in Antwerp in Belgium right now, sitting in my hotel room, looking over at some gorgeous old buildings which house a shoe store and a cafe. Tomorrow I go to Paris and then to London. I've been travelling as much as possible since I was eighteen and I went away for a year backpacking on my own. The planet is a big, beautiful place and I'm lucky to have seen as much of it as I have. So, in answer to your question, I guess today I'd like to go to the city centre in Antwerp (as I'm already here) and maybe go to an art gallery. Rubens lived here so I might get to see his house today, depending on my baby who might prefer the zoo!

Thank so much for joining us Alice!

Mini Reviews (3)

2010-07-08T11:00:00.000-07:00

Mini Reviews is composed of, well, small reviews. These will likely be books I read forever ago or didn't enjoy a whole lot, but did finish. These reviews will be short and sweet.

Boys, Bears, and A Serious Pair of Hiking Boots by Abby McDonald

What a fun story! Jenna was easy to relate to, and her encounters with the boys were at times adventurous, as well as heated. Sometimes I had a bit of trouble distinguishing one boy form the other, which could be a bit confusing. I enjoyed the ecofriendly and rustic twists. Good ending, but I enjoyed McDonald's first book more.

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot

This is by far the most interesting nonfiction book I've ever read. The story was both compelling and heartbreaking. I learned so much, and now I could tell you anything about Henrietta Lacks and her cells. I encourage anyone who has an interest in science or ethics to check this out.

The Beautiful Between by Alyssa B. Sheinmel

Jeremy and Connelly had a gorgeous relationship, one that started out as friends and progressed into more. They completely trusted each other, and their time together was simple and right. The addition of Jeremy's sick sister propelled this short book forward. I enjoyed Connelly's growth. And that cover is beautiful.

Wednesday Wishlist (21)

2010-07-07T10:00:00.000-07:00

The Mockingbirds

by Daisy Whitney

Some schools have honor codes.

Others have handbooks.

Themis Academy has the Mockingbirds.

Themis Academy is a quiet boarding school with an exceptional student body that the administration trusts to always behave the honorable way--the Themis Way. So when Alex is date raped during her junior year, she has two options: stay silent and hope someone helps her, or enlist the Mockingbirds--a secret society of students dedicated to righting the wrongs of their fellow peers.

In this honest, page-turning account of a teen girl's struggle to stand up for herself, debut author Daisy Whitney reminds readers that if you love something or someone--especially yourself--you fight for it.

Reasons I want to read this:

1. What a concept.

2. Secret socities? Count me in!

3. Daisy's a debut author.

4. Look at that cover and that tagline.

Raised by Wolves by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

2010-07-06T10:00:00.000-07:00

Raised by Wolves by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Publication Date/Version: June 2010/Hardcover

Publisher: Egmont

Age Group: Young Adult

Received From: Around The World Tours (Thanks!)

Adopted by the Alpha of a werewolf pack after a rogue wolf brutally killed her parents right before her eyes, fifteen-year-old Bryn knows only pack life, and the rigid social hierarchy that controls it. That doesn't mean that she's averse to breaking a rule or two.

But when her curiosity gets the better of her and she discovers Chase, a new teen locked in a cage in her guardian's basement, and witnesses him turn into a wolf before her eyes, the horrific memories of her parents' murders return. Bryn becomes obsessed with getting her questions answered, and Chase is the only one who can provide the information she needs.

But in her drive to find the truth, will Bryn push too far beyond the constraints of the pack, forcing her to leave behind her friends, her family, and the identity that she's shaped?

Bryn, whose parents were killed by a rabid werewolf when she was just a child, was adopted by the alpha werewolf of the Stone Creek Pack. She's known for breaking rules, much to the dislike of other pack members. She, however, is protected by Callum, the alpha. Bryn finds out about Chase, a newly turned were. Bryn must ask herself the most terrifying question of all: Is the Rabid still out there?

Who knew werewolf fiction could be this wonderfully exciting and such a good read? I didn't! Jennifer Lynn Barnes, however, has completely changed my perspective on paranormal fiction. There is hope, I claim.

Bryn is definitely the most stubborn, hard-headed character you will meet. She's sarcastic, witty, and always breaks the rules. Her sibling-like bond with Callum is endearing, and you can really tell just how much he cares for her. Each of the werewolves is unique and easy to tell apart. I was fascinated by all of the rules and structure of the pack. Al of the secondary characters were strong, though I would've enjoyed learning a bit more about some of them, especially Devon. Lake, a female werewolf, was one of my favorite best friend characters by far.

The story progresses at a steady pace, with plenty of action and mystery. It was unpredictable, something I never expected from another paranormal novel. I really did, however, keep me guessing. Barnes wove an exciting world that's easy to imagine. You'll wish you were one of them.

I can't speak enough of how awesome the plot was! It was different and stood out from the crowd. Barnes was able to take run-of-the-mill werewolf fiction, twist it, and make it her own. This didn't feel like another author just trying to join the bandwagon. With a book like this, she could've started the whole paranormal trend. I recommend this to everyone, even the paranormal-wary.

Overall: Who knew paranormal fiction was this good! Lots of action. Headstrong female heroin. Great supporting friends.

My Advice: Buy it. I can't wait to get my own pretty copy!

Cover: I like the title treatment, as well as how the cover is dark without being black and gloomy. Melissa Marr's quote is spot on.

*This was read as a part of the 100+ Reading Challenge

BBAW Nomination Post

2010-07-05T12:00:00.000-07:00

What: Book Blogger Appreciation Week is a week long festival celebrating the community of book bloggers and their contribution to preserving a culture of literacy through book reviews and recommendations, reading reflections, and general bookish chat. BBAW also includes an awards component. For more information on the BBAW 2010 Awards and how to participate, please visit the BBAW 2010 Awards Blog. BBAW events include daily blogging topics, blogger interview swaps, special guest posts, and so much more!

Who: If you self-identify as a book blogger, this festival is for you! We have been excited to welcome participants from all over the world for past BBAWs.

When: September 13-17, 2010.

Where: Right here at the Book Blogger Appreciation Week blog. You can participate in the comfort of your own home and the convenience of your own time zone.

Why: Because book blogging is a fun and time intensive hobby that has created communities around books and played a crucial role in the continuing evolution of what books mean in our society.

How Can I Participate?
You can participate by filling out the registration form for BBAW 2010. Subscribe to the blog’s feed and follow us on Twitter to keep up with all of the developments!

It's that time of the year folks. I remember watching last year's BBAW, and thinking how much fun it would be to join. This year, as you can see, I've decided to to go for it and enter! I'm really not looking to win anything; I just want to have fun celebrating blogging with all of you.

This year I will be entering in:

Best Young Adult Book Blog—This blog offers the best consistently excellent reviews, recommendations, analyses, and other content for books written for a young adult audience.

Reviews:
1. A Little Wanting Song by Cath Crowley
2. Lifted by Wendy Toliver
3. Anxious Hearts by Tucker Shaw

Other:
1. Blogger Relations
2. Spring: Why I Love It

Best Written Book Blog—This blog is consistently well-written, clear, and engaging, no matter what the subject.

Reviews:
1. A Little Wanting Song by Cath Crowley
2. Lifted by Wendy Toliver
3. Anxious Hearts by Tucker Shaw

Other:
1. Blogger Relations
2. Spring: Why I Love It

Zan-Gah by Allan Richard Shickman

2010-07-03T17:35:00.001-07:00

Zan-Gah by Allan Richard Shickman

Publication Date/Version: July 2007/Paperback

Publisher: Earthshaker Books

Age Group: Middle Grade/Young Adult

Received From: Publisher/Editor (Thanks!)

The hero, Zan-Gah seeks his lost twin in a savage prehistoric world, encountering suffering, captivity, conflict, love, and triumph. In three years, Zan-Gah passes from an uncertain boyhood to a tried and proven manhood and a position of leadership among his people.

Zan-Gah lives in a prehistoric world, as a part of a tribe that hunts lions, lives in caves, and fights with enemy tribes. Zan-Gah, as the reader quickly finds out, gained his name from the fact that he killed a mountain lion. With his new found courage and strength, he sets off to find his missing brother, braving strange worlds and deadly enemies.

Zan-Gah was not a novel I would have picked up on my own, as, I hate to admit, I really do judge books by their cover. I imagine plenty of you are the same. This book, however, completely surprised me in just how much I enjoyed it.

Prehistoric fiction is something I've never come across, and I would have been likely never to again if my first experience hadn't been a good one. Zan-Gah, luckily, blew away my expectations and left me wanting more.

Zan-Gah, or simply Zan, is a character that's easy to relate to, though a bit inaccessible at times. Though his world and culture are completely different, he still feels and hopes in the same way. I found the beginning of this book to be a bit slow and tedious, but once Zan-Gah set out to find his brother, Dael, the pacing quickly sped up. Allan Richard Shickman did a great job of describing the terrains and populations that Zan encountered. I was fascinated by the other tribes, as well as how Zan-Gah managed to survive his arduous trek.

The book, only 150 pages or so, flew by, and I was happy to find myself flipping pages without realizing. My only complaint is that Shickman would sometimes tell, rather than show. His descriptions about everyday were wonderful, but in intense moment, such as fighting wolves. He simple said that they managed to fight them off, giving only a sentence to the moment. I would have enjoyed more detail, as this type of thing happened occasionally throughout the text.

Zan-Gah is a book that I recommend to all young or middle grade readers, as well as to young adult readers who are willing to put aside their high-and-mighty views (I do this too!) and try out something new. Don't let the somewhat unpleasing aesthetics fool you - this book deserves to be read and is definitely one of my surprise favorites of the year! I look forward to reading the sequel.

Overall: A surprising favorite! Wonderful details. Exciting glimpse into a completely different world.

My Advice: If you're a librarian, teacher, or have young/middle grade readers, I would buy this. If you're a young adult reader, please give it a chance!

Cover: I wish the cover did it more justice. It's not the best, but it does hold relevance to the story. Don't let it deter you!

*This was read as a part of the 100+ Reading Challenge

In My Mailbox (43)

2010-07-03T16:13:00.000-07:00

IMM is a weekly meme that explores the contents of one's mailbox. IMM was started by Kristi at The Story Siren. Descriptions are from Goodreads.

For Review:

The Truth About Delilah Blue by Tish Cohen

(ARC/Released June 2010/Harper Perennial)

Delilah Blue has always been a bit of an outsider, ever since she moved from Toronto to Los Angeles when she was eight. Twenty now and desperate to become an artist like her long-lost mother but unable to pay for classes, Delilah does something nearly unthinkable. She takes a job as an art model, peeling off her clothes for a classroom full of students so she can learn from the professors as the students draw parts she’d much rather keep under wraps.

Her only real companion in life is her father, a dapper, single salesman. But as he’s entered his mid-50s, his personality seems to be changing. He forgets simple tasks and is often disoriented, signs that he is going through early-onset Alzheimer’s. The disease presents just as Delilah’s long-estranged mother, who Delilah always believed abandoned the family, re-enters the scene with a young daughter in tow and reveals a secret about the past that will permanently change their lives. Delilah must decide if her mother is the selfish woman she’s always assumed left her behind or whether somewhere deep inside her father’s memory is the truth behind the family’s separation.

I started reading this, but I was quite bored, so we'll see how this goes. I received this from Around The World Tours.

Raised by Wolves by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

(ARC/Released June 2010/Egmont)

But in her drive to find the truth, will Bryn push too far beyond the constraints of the pack, forcing her to leave behind her friends, her family, and the identity that she's shaped?

This isn't my typical read, but I'm actually very excited to get started on it. I received this from Around The World Tours.

Haint Misbehavin' by Maureen Hardegree

(PB/June 2010/Bell Bridge Books)

The start of a fun middle-grade series, The Ghost Handlers, follows Heather Tildy, an Atlanta teen with a troublesome habit of attracting ghosts. Middle-child Heather has enough to worry about with sisters, boys and school. Now that a trouble-making girl from the 1800's is poking her nose in Heather's business, her life has taken a supernatural turn for the worse! Before her life can get better, she has to figure out how to help the ghost move on.

I love the girl's eyes on the cover. Thanks to Maureen for sending this to me for review!

Trickster's Girl by Hilari Bell

(ARC/Releases January 2011/Houghton Mifflin)

In the year 2098 America isn't so different from the USA of today. But, in a post-9/11 security-obsessed world, "secured" doesn't just refer to borders between countries, it also refer to borders between states. Teenagers still think they know everything, but there is no cure for cancer, as Kelsa knows first-hand from watching her father die.

The night Kelsa buries her father, a boy appears. He claims magic is responsible for the health of Earth, but human damage disrupts its flow. The planet is dying.

Kelsa has the power to reverse the damage, but first she must accept that magic exists and see beyond her own pain in order to heal the planet.

What an interesting concept! Thanks to Hilari for sending this to me for review.

A Field Guide for Heartbreakers by Kristen Tracy
(ARC/Released June 2010/Disney Hyperion)

When best friends Dessy and Veronica arrive in Prague for a prestigious writing workshop, their priorities diverge. Dessy, fragile from a recent breakup, has come to mend her broken heart by honing her craft. Veronica has just dumped her boyfriend and plans to blow off the workshop. She'd rather master a different subject -- boys. Veronica gets right to work on her "man-wall" -- one paper cutout for every hot-dude she meets -- and embarks on her mission to cover a wall of their dorm by summer's end. At times, Dessy thinks her friend might be a genius. At others, Veronica seems more like an agent of chaos.

As if their love lives weren't complicated enough, soon a homicidal suitemate is bent on killing Veronica and Dessy, and both girls are hiding secrets that could wreck their friendship. Well, no one ever said breaking hearts was a simple craft. . . .

What a backcover blurb! I received this from Around The World Tours.

Won:

Crossing Oceans by Gina Holmes (From Goodreads First Reads program)

Swapped:

This World We Live In by Susan Beth Pfeffer

I had a great week! What about you?

My Double Life by Janette Rallison

2010-07-02T10:00:00.000-07:00

My Double Life by Janette Rallison

Publication Date/Version: May 2010/Paperback

Publisher: Putnam

Age Group: Young Adult

Received From: Around The World Tours (Thanks!)

Her whole life, Alexia Garcia has been told that she looks just like pop star Kari Kingsley, and one day when Alexia’s photo filters through the Internet, she’s offered a job to be Kari’s double. This would seem like the opportunity of a lifetime, but Alexia’s mother has always warned her against celebrities.

Rebelliously, Alexia flies off to L.A. and gets immersed in a celebrity life. Not only does she have to get used to getting anything she wants, she romances the hottest lead singer on the charts, and finds out that her own father is a singing legend. Through it all, Alexia must stay true to herself, which is hard to do when you are pretending to be somebody else!

Yes, Alexia gets it all the time. She knows she looks like Kari Kingsley, the infamous pop star. She's never really thought anything of it though. One day, however, Alexia is offered the chance to be Kari's body double. Alexia sees this as her chance to escape her life of poverty in a bong town, and she says yes, heading off to L.A. She discovers that there's a reason her and Kari look so alike, and it comes with serious repercussions.

This is my first book by Janette Rallison, and after reading My Double Life, I can't believe I've been missing out for so long! This book was fun, fresh, and adorable. Though at first glance it looks to be full of fluff, I was surprised to find that there was a lot more depth than I was expecting.

Alexia is an instantly loveable character. She has a good family life, but no dad. It's never affected her terribly, but she does want to know who he is. Alexia is tired of her boring life, and heads off to L.A. to be Kari's body double. She'll get paid tons and have a good time while doing it. Much to her surprise, however, being a body double is tough work. She trains endlessly each day, going to a fitness trainer and learning dance routines and songs. With such great perks though, Alexia doesn't mind too much. She soon finds herself falling for Grant, a popular singer. The problem is, he thinks she's Kari, and Kari hates Grants. As you can imagine, things get a bit sticky.

My Double Life actually offers up a couple important lessons. One, don't judge based on looks or first impressions. Two, stay true to yourself. Alexia learned both of these the hard way, all while dealing with an absent father, demanding career, and crazy coworkers. Her journey from simple to glamorous back to a combination of both was fun to watch. Alexia was one of those girls that everyone likes. If she were real, she'd be the one with an infectious personality. Even Kari, who comes across as snobbish, turns out to be a good person who just got a little lost on the way. The characters in this story were all genuine and proved that impressions aren't everything.

I enjoyed the overall flow of the story, especially the last couple of major events. In many cases, I don't like when books have complete closure or a perfect ending, but I was happy with it in this case. I look forward to reading more by Rallison.

Overall: More depth than I expected. A great summer read.

My Advice: Borrow it. It's perfect for lounging around during the summer.

Cover: I like the cover, but I wish the model had darker skin. Alexia was part Mexican, I believe, and the model doesn't accurately portray that.

*This was read as a part of the 100+ Reading Challenge

Wayfarer by R.J. Anderson

2010-07-01T14:07:00.001-07:00

Wayfarer by R.J. Anderson

Publication Date/Version: June 2010/Hardcover

Publisher: HarperCollins

Age Group: Young Adult

Received From: Around The World Tours (Thanks!)

The faeries of the Oak are dying, and it’s up to a lone faery named Linden to find a way to restore their magic. Linden travels bravely into dangerous new territory, where she enlists the help of an unlikely friend—a human named Timothy. Soon they discover something much worse than the Oakenfolk’s loss of magic: a potent evil that threatens the fate of all faeries. In a fevered, desperate chase across the country, Timothy and Linden risk their lives to seek an ancient power before it’s too late to save everyone they love. R. J. Anderson has artfully crafted a world of stunning magic, thrilling adventure, and delicate beauty, where a girl far from home must defeat the pervasive evil befalling her beloved faery realm.

Linden is summoned to the bedside of her dying faery queen. The Oak's magic is dwindling, and Linden is their last hope. It's up to her to delve into the human world in search of other faeries who can help save the Oak and its faeries. Linden is joined by Timothy, a human friend who helps her in her quest, providing protection, transportation, and true friendship. Characters from Spell Hunter are reintroduced in the next exciting installment in the Faery Rebels series.

It's R.J. Anderson, people. Of course Wayfarer was exciting, action-packed, and featured an amazing world. What else did you expect?

Needless to say, Wayfarer carried on the wonderful series. No sophomore blues for this author. Anderson proves that all of her stories pack a punch. I didn't enjoy Wayfarer quite as much as Spell Hunter, but that's probably only because I already knew how amazing the series was.

Linden is yet another head-strong heroine who serves as a good role model. I enjoyed her courageous actions and wit, as well as her interaction with Timothy. Timothy, though he had a bit of a tough exterior, proved to be a real sweetheart and friend. Their adventures together showcased Anderson's ability to create enticing worlds and settings. My favorite part of this story was meeting the other faery world, especially one sly little trickster.

I loved that the second installment featured characters from Spell Hunter. Characters from both stories mingle, and major characters from the first installment play large roles in the second. This aspect was one that made me thoroughly enjoy the novel. I love when authors revisit their characters, and Anderson didn't disappoint.

Overall: A great second installment, equal to the first. Action-packed. Great ending.

My Advice: If you've read and enjoyed the first one, buy it.

Cover: It's too young for my tastes. Overall, I really prefer the UK covers.

*This was read as a part of the 100+ Reading Challenge

Wednesday Wishlist (20)

2010-06-30T13:42:00.000-07:00

Heart of a Samurai
by Margi Preus

In 1841, a Japanese fishing vessel sinks. Its crew is forced to swim to a small, unknown island, where they are rescued by a passing American ship. Japan’s borders remain closed to all Western nations, so the crew sets off to America, learning English on the way.

Manjiro, a fourteen-year-old boy, is curious and eager to learn everything he can about this new culture. Eventually the captain adopts Manjiro and takes him to his home in New England. The boy lives for some time in New England, and then heads to San Francisco to pan for gold. After many years, he makes it back to Japan, only to be imprisoned as an outsider. With his hard-won knowledge of the West, Manjiro is in a unique position to persuade the shogun to ease open the boundaries around Japan; he may even achieve his unlikely dream of becoming a samurai.

Reasons I want to read this:
1. I really enjoy historical fiction
2. I'm interested in learning about Japanese culture
3. The cover is wonderful
4. I read a really good review from another blogger

I'm Back!

2010-06-29T19:48:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone. I'm back from San Francisco, and I had a wonderful time! I will be posting later with pictures and a general sum up. I look forward to being back with all of you.

Pretty on the Outside by Kate Kingsley

2010-06-28T13:00:00.000-07:00

Pretty on the Outside by Kate Kingsley

Publication Date/Version: April 2010/Paperback

Publisher: Simon Pulse

Age Group: Young Adult

Received From: Publicist/Publisher (Thanks!)

Alice and Tally have ruled St. Cecilia's, their private boarding school just outside of London, for years. As everyone comes back for their junior year, the girls can't wait to start partying in London and jetting off to Paris and Rome. As Alice begins to realize that she has more than friendly feelings for Tristan, her long time best friend, she thinks the excitement of a new crush will make this year the best yet. But when Dylan, the American girl Tristan summered with in the Hamptons transfers to St. Cecilia's, the girls' perfect lives spiral into broken hearts, jealousies, and revenge plots that will change everything.

At St. Cecilia's, an all-girls private school, Alice and Tally have always ruled. As best friends, they know the ins and outs of Cecilia's. They sneak out, board jets to Paris, and hang out with Hasted House boys. The new girl, Dylan, stirs up trouble among the girls. Dylan had a fling with Tristan and she still wants to be with him. Alice, however, wants Tristan as well. A battle begins, and no one is safe.

Joining the ranks of The It Girl and Private, Pretty on the Outside is the feisty start to a juicy series. With loads of drama, it's sure to please to guilty side in all of us.

Admit it. You've got a guilty pleasure for all things wild, girly, and crazy. We all do. For those times when you need to escape from the seriousness of life, this new series will take you away. It's all that you expect, plus a few surprises. Be warned: this book is not for young readers, as it is filled with drugs, drinking, and hooking up.

Alice and Tally are your typical, teenage fiction boarding school queens. They're intimidating, and they know it. The two best friends get what they want, and they're used to being on top. When Dylan, the new girl, threatens this balance, St. Cecilia's turns a bit cutthroat. Dylan wants to get with Tristan, but so does Alice. As you can imagine, this doesn't go over too well. In a whirlwind of bad ideas, boys, and booze, St. Cecilia's and Hasted House, their male counterpart, are headlong into a battle of love.

As you may expect, I had a lot of fun with Pretty on the Outside, but I didn't find a lot of depth. I knew that I wouldn't though, so I took the book as what it was supposed to be, and I enjoyed it the whole time. It was perfect for a very rare guilty read. Alice and Tally are those girls. The ones everyone wants to be, but hates at the same time. It was fun to step into their lives, as well as get an occasional glimpse of Tristan's point of view. The book was told mainly by Alice and Tally, but we got a different character's outlook every once in a while, which made the story fresh.

One of the things that irks me most about these kinds of books is the constant name and label dropping that goes on. The name dropping happened in the first couple of chapters of Pretty on the Outside, but I never once read a brand name. I was pleasantly surprised! There was no Gucci this, Prada that. Sure they talked about clothes a bit, but more about what they actually looked like than how much they cost.

I enjoyed the wild antics, as I lived vicariously through their experiences. A girl like me would never even think of doing half the things they did, and I believe almost all readers can relate with me on that point. Because of that, I enjoyed the escape into no rules and total freedom, even if it wasn't my own.

Overall: Feisty and fresh. Perfect for that rare guilty pleasure read.

My Advice: Borrow it or buy it. I'm actually looking forward to collecting the series, as long as it isn't 12 freakin' books long.

Cover: Really like it! It's actually much more symbolic than I expected. The clothes are pretty, but the black figures represent the girls' tainted hearts.. Plus, it's just simple and nice to look at.

*This was read as a part of the 2010 Debut Author Challenge and the 100+ Reading Challenge

Contest: Wayfarer

2010-06-27T12:01:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the wonderful R.J. Anderson, I have 1 signed and personalized hardcover copy of Wayfarer by R.J. Anderson! I've yet to review Wayfarer, but let me tell you, it was an amazing book!

The faeries of the Oak are dying, and it’s up to a lone faery named Linden to find a way to restore their magic. Linden travels bravely into dangerous new territory, where she enlists the help of an unlikely friend—a human named Timothy. Soon they discover something much worse than the Oakenfolk’s loss of magic: a potent evil that threatens the fate of all faeries. In a fevered, desperate chase across the country, Timothy and Linden risk their lives to seek an ancient power before it’s too late to save everyone they love. R. J. Anderson has artfully crafted a world of stunning magic, thrilling adventure, and delicate beauty, where a girl far from home must defeat the pervasive evil befalling her beloved faery realm.

Information:
Contest Closed

Interview: R.J. Anderson, author of Wayfarer

2010-06-27T12:00:00.000-07:00

Please welcome R.J. Anderson, author of Spell Hunter and Wayfarer. You can read my review of Spell Hunter here. R. J. Anderson (known to her friends as Rebecca) was born in Uganda, raised in Ontario, went to school in New Jersey, and has spent much of her life dreaming of other worlds entirely.

1. Please describe Wayfarer in 50 words or less.

A faery named Linden ventures into the modern human world to save her dying people, enlisting the help of Timothy, a human boy, along the way. But their quest earns them some dangerous enemies, and soon their lives, and the fate of both their worlds, is at stake.

2. What inspired you to write about faeries? How did you come up with the lore behind Spell Hunter and Wayfarer?

I was always interested in the idea of small faeries, but I disliked their reputation -- in North America at least -- for being cute and sparkly and generally childish. So I decided to turn that idea on its head and write about a small faery who was not in the least cute, and whose problems and challenges were very big and serious (and even grown-up) indeed.

Some of the lore in the books is invented, but in most cases it's my own personal spin on ideas that are part of faery folklore anyway. The particular group of Welsh faeries that Linden and Timothy encounter in Wayfarer, for instance, are very much based on a genuine Pembrokeshire legend. But I tried to avoid legends and traditions that have been overused by other authors -- or at least, if I did have to draw from those very familiar sources, to put a fresh spin on them.

3. If you could choose one of the faery jobs, which one would you want?

I'd want to be the Oak's librarian, for certain. I love books and I'm good at keeping things organized, and it would be just about the only task in the Oak that I could be sure of doing well!

4. Everyone reads classics in high school English. Which ones did you love? Which ones should students never be forced to read?

People are going to think me horribly warped for saying this, but I loved Lord of the Flies. Not because it was a pleasant read by any means (in fact I was enraged nearly to the point of tears over the fate of Simon, who was my favourite character by far) but because it rang true to my own experience as a bullied and ostracized child. I could easily believe that a group of "angelic" children could degenerate into barbarism and murder if all restraints were taken away, because I'd experienced the cruelty of unsupervised children myself. I had a similar "Yes, this" reaction to Animal Farm.

On the other hand, I nearly tore my hair out in despair over the very dull works of "classic Canadian literature" we were forced to read, most of which involved housewives going through midlife crises or old men reminiscing about the war. On the Prairies. With the wind blowing the grain. And nothing much else.

5. The one book everyone should read?

The Bible. Even if you don't believe a word of it, it's exerted a huge and undeniable influence on literature in general, and even on the fantasy genre in particular. And it's tremendously honest and perceptive about human nature, at its best and worst.

6. Are you working on anything at the moment? If so, please tell us a little about it.

I'm just about to plunge into revisions on Arrow, the third book in the faery series, which is scheduled for publication in the UK this coming January. It wraps up the loose threads from Wayfarer and brings the war between the rebels and the Empress to a resolution. After that I'll be polishing up a very different project, a paranormal thriller for older teens called Touching Indigo, which will be out Fall 2011... and then it'll be time to write a fourth faery book, Swift, which is either a standalone or the start of a new trilogy -- I'm not sure yet.

7. Any last words?

If you're reading this and you're a teacher, librarian and/or book club leader who is interested in me and my books, I'm available to do virtual visits and interviews on Skype. You can find out more details on my Skype an Author page (http://skypeanauthor.wetpaint.com/page/R.J.+Anderson) and contact me through my website, http://www.rj-anderson.com/.

Thanks so much for joining us Rebecca!

In My Mailbox (42)

2010-06-26T11:00:00.000-07:00

IMM is a weekly meme that explores the contents of one's mailbox. IMM was started by Kristi at The Story Siren. Descriptions are from Goodreads. This IMM includes books from Monday through Wednesday, as I'm not here at the moment and have no idea what I received Thursday through Sunday. Thursday through Sunday's book will be included in next week's IMM.

For Review:

Thief Eyes by Janni Lee Simner

(HC/April 2010/Random House)

After her mother mysteriously disappears, sixteen-year-old Haley convinces her father to take her to Iceland, where her mother was last seen. There, amidst the ancient fissures and crevices of that volcanic island, Haley meets gorgeous Ari, a boy with a dangerous side who appoints himself her protector.

When Haley picks up a silver coin that entangles her in a spell cast by her ancestor Hallgerd, she discovers that Hallgerd's spell and her mother's disappearance are connected to a chain of events that could unleash terrifying powers and consume the world. Haley must find a way to contain the growing fires of the spell—and her growing attraction to Ari.

Iceland - how cool! I love the cover. I received this for review from Teens Read Too.

Three Rivers Rising by Jame Richards

(HC/April 2010/Knopf)

Sixteen-year-old Celestia is a wealthy member of the South Fork Fishing and Hunting Club, where she meets and falls in love with Peter, a hired hand who lives in the valley below, and by the time of the torrential rains that lead to the disastrous Johnstown flood of 1889, she has been disowned by her family and is staying with him in Johnstown.

Romance and historical fiction? I'm going to love it. I received this for review from Teens Read Too.

Wintercraft by Jenna Burtenshaw

(ARC/May 2010 in UK/Headline)

Ten years ago Kate Winters' parents were taken by the High Council's wardens to help with the country's war effort. Now the wardens are back...and prisoners, including Kate's uncle Artemis, are taken south on the terrifying Night Train. Kate and her friend Edgar are hunted by a far more dangerous enemy. Silas Dane -- the High Council's most feared man -- recognises Kate as one of the Skilled; a rare group of people able to see through the veil between the living and the dead. His spirit was damaged by the High Council's experiments into the veil, and he's convinced that Kate can undo the damage and allow him to find peace. The knowledge Kate needs lies within Wintercraft -- a book thought to be hidden deep beneath the graveyard city of Fume. But the Night of Souls, when the veil between life and death is at its thinnest, is just days away and the High Council have their own sinister plans for Kate and Wintercraft. To help Artemis, Edgar and herself, Kate must honour her pact with a murderer and come face to face with the true nature of death.

I'm not sure when this releases in the U.S. I'm very excited for this one! I received this for review from Teens Read Too.

Forbidden by Tabitha Suzuma

(PB/May 2010 in UK/Definitions)

She is pretty and talented - sweet sixteen and never been kissed.

He is seventeen, gorgeous, and on the brink of a bright future.

And now they have fallen in love. But...

They are brother and sister.

Um, wow? You know how each year there's that one book you have to read because you know it's going to change your outlooks and beliefs? Well, this is that book for me. I received this for review from Teens Read Too.

Dear Dylan by Siobhan Curham

(PB/March 2010/Authorhouse)

Fourteen year old Georgie Harris feels as if the summer holidays are over before they have even begun. Banned from going to the local drama workshop by her bully of a step-dad and her increasingly fragile mum she is consigned to six long weeks of babysitting her kid sister. Sick of feeling like the outsider at home and at school, she starts emailing the one person she thinks might understand; Dylan Curtlan, star of the popular soap opera Jessop Close.

And when Dylan starts emailing back Georgie finally feels a spark of hope. At last she has someone who really gets her, someone who really wants to help. But in the faceless world of email all is not as it seems...

Sounds intriguing! Thanks to Siobhan for sending me a copy!

Swapped:

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith

A Countess Below Stairs by Eva Ibbotson

Scones and Sensibility by Lindsay Eland (ARC)

Won:

Kings of the Earth by Jon Clinch (From Goodreads First Reads program)

I had an awesome week. Well, three days actually. How about you?

Restoring Harmony by Joelle Anthony

2010-06-25T11:00:00.000-07:00

Restoring Harmony by Joelle Anthony

Publication Date/Version: May 2010/Hardcover

Publisher: Putnam

Age Group: Young Adult

Received From: Editor (Thanks!)

The year is 2041, and sixteen-year-old Molly McClure has lived a relatively quiet life on an isolated farming island in Canada, but when her family fears the worst may have happened to her grandparents in the US, Molly must brave the dangerous, chaotic world left after global economic collapse—one of massive oil shortages, rampant crime, and abandoned cities.

Molly is relieved to find her grandparents alive in their Portland suburb, but they’re financially ruined and practically starving. What should’ve been a quick trip turns into a full-fledged rescue mission. And when Molly witnesses something the local crime bosses wishes she hadn’t, Molly’s only way home may be to beat them at their own game. Luckily, there’s a handsome stranger who’s willing to help.

Molly is heading off on her own, trying to find her grandparents. It's 2041, and the world is desolate. After huge oil shortages, people must depend on the wits to survive as crime runs wild. Molly lived safely on a small island in Canada, but now she must head to Oregon to find her aging grandparents and bring them back. The trip there isn't easy, nor is convincing her grandparents to come back. Molly has to tough it out and learn to fend for herself. With the help of a in-the-know young man, however, she'll get an extra boost.

I love dystopian novels, simple as that. They're exciting, they're always full of adventure, and they amaze me. I always try to put myself into the character's situation, and I ask myself what I would do. Would I be brave enough? Would I do anything it took to survive? These questions, along with the characters' situations fascinate me. Restoring Harmony was another great addition to my endless wondering.

Molly is a headstrong young woman, though somewhat worrisome in the beginning. She travels to Oregon hoping to rescue her grandparents, making it all the way there to discover they don't want to go to Canada. So begins the long process of surviving and convincing. The cast of characters Molly meets is diverse, ranging from nice old women to mean and tough mobsters. One young man, eventually nicknamed Spill, is especially enticing. He always has help for Molly, but she's wary of just how he gets it. Spill seems to be working for the wrong people, and Molly isn't sure if she should risk getting involved.

The story progresses quickly with new turns around every corner. I thoroughly enjoyed the overall plot, especially the end. Lately I've been on a really good reading streak. I haven't read a bad book lately. Restoring Harmony hasn't broken it for sure. Molly serves as a proper role model. She's willing to fight for herself and her family, and she's strong in the face of danger. One can see her mature through the course of the novel, as you can expect from a good novel.

I recommend Restoring Harmony to lovers of dystopian fiction, especially ones with a knack for strong heroines.

Overall: Strong female character. Exciting story. Another great addition to dystopian fiction.

My Advice: Buy it if you love dystopian. Borrow it if you're not sure. I recommend this to all readers. I'm excited to own a copy.

Cover: Gorgeous. It looks more like art than a book cover. I love the way the white arches fade. The cover is very representative of the novel as a whole.

*This was read as a part of the 2010 Debut Author Challenge and the 100+ Reading Challenge

Vacation!

2010-06-24T11:00:00.000-07:00

That's right, it's vacation time! From today, June 24th, until June 29th, next Tuesday, I'll be traveling down to San Francisco with my family and best friend for a family friend's wedding. We plan on hitting up Six Flags, staying at the Wharf, and taking a look at an awesome science museum down there.

I will be unable to answer emails at this time, but I'll see to all of them when I get back. I will also turn comment moderation off, but put up word verification for the time being. Posts will continue during my vacation, as I've scheduled them ahead of time.

Look for a trip recap when I get back!

Wednesday Wishlist (19)

2010-06-23T10:00:00.000-07:00

Hunger
by Jackie Morse Kessler

“Thou art the Black Rider. Go thee out unto the world.”

Reasons I want to read this:
1. Did you read the description? That sounds like the most amazing and original concept I've heard this year.
2. Awesome cover. It reminds me of the Mortal Instruments covers.
3. "Wow" is really all I have to say.

CSN Upcoming Product Review

2010-06-22T16:09:00.000-07:00

You may have seen CSN Furniture around the blogosphere. They're known for having awesome giveaways, as well as quality furniture. I was lucky enough to be contacted to review one of their products! I've been browsing, and believe me, there's a lot to look at with over 200+ stores. They have everything from wall sconces to magazine racks. Or maybe I should try out a bookcase, or a bean bag, or maybe a nice blanket to cuddle up with? It seems as though the possibilities are endless. What would you get? This chair is pretty snazzy.

Who knows what I'll buy with so many choices? Look forward to a product review when I manage to choose something!

Contest: A Little Wanting Song

2010-06-21T10:47:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the wonderful Cath Crowley and her publisher, I have 3 copies of A Little Wanting Song by Cath Crowley to give away! You can read my review and interview.

CHARLIE DUSKIN loves music, and she knows she's good at it. But she only sings when she's alone, on the moonlit porch or in the back room at Old Gus's Secondhand Record and CD Store. Charlie's mom and grandmother have both died, and this summer she's visiting her grandpa in the country, surrounded by ghosts and grieving family, and serving burgers to the local kids at the milk bar. She's got her iPod, her guitar, and all her recording equipment, but she wants more: A friend. A dad who notices her. The chance to show Dave Robbie that she's not entirely unspectacular.

ROSE BUTLER lives next door to Charlie's grandfather and spends her days watching cars pass on the freeway and hanging out with her troublemaker boyfriend. She loves Luke but can't wait to leave their small country town. And she's figured out a way: she's won a scholarship to a science school in the city, and now she has to convince her parents to let her go. This is where Charlie comes in. Charlie, who lives in the city, and whom Rose has ignored for years. Charlie, who just might be Rose's ticket out.

Told in alternating voices and filled with music, friendship, and romance, Charlie and Rose's "little wanting song" is about the kind of longing that begins as a heavy ache but ultimately makes us feel hopeful and wonderfully alive.

Information:

Contest Closed

Interview: Cath Crowley, author of A Little Wanting Song

2010-06-21T10:20:00.000-07:00

Please welcome Cath Crowley, author of A Little Wanting Song. You can read my review here. Cath spends her time young adult fiction and fiction for younger children. She likes reading, TV marathons, the planetarium, politics and hanging out with her friends.

1. Please describe your novel in 50 words or less.

A Little Wanting Song is about longing. Charlie is desperate to belong, to be noticed by a boy, to have her mother alive again. Rosie is desperate to be different, to get away from her boyfriend and from her mother. It’s about what happens when their different wanting songs collide.

2. Where did you draw inspiration for A Little Wanting Song? Was it challenging to write Charlie's songs?
I was on a train once and I saw a girl carrying a guitar. She had long hair and the saddest eyes and she gave me the initial idea for the character, Charlie Duskin.

Charlie is an outsider, so I wanted her to have another language, another way to enter the world. To get her voice I spent ages listening to bands and singers that I thought she might like – Fiona Apple, Natalie Merchant, Spiderbait, The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix. Eventually a sort of rolling, lyrical voice emerged.

I found it really difficult to translate her prose voice into poetry. I kept sitting in front of a blank screen waiting for something to happen but nothing did.

In the end I played the music I thought she’d like – played it really loud so I could barely think - and I wrote at the same time. I put down whatever came into my head. Usually I can’t write unless it’s quiet but somehow that time the noise worked for me.

I took the interesting lines or words from that writing session and worked them into a song/poem. My American editor, Allison Wortche, did a beautiful job of editing them for me. It’s amazing how one word can change a sentence.

Rose’s voice is much harsher. She’s desperate to get away. I grew up in a small country town so I know what it’s like to be restless. Rose was much easier to write than Charlie.

3. Everyone reads classics in high school English. Which ones did you love? Which ones should students never be forced to read?

I loved classics like Jane Eyre, Wuthering Heights, Pride and Prejudice, To Kill a Mockingbird and Ivanhoe but we didn’t study those at school.

I remember reading Beowulf in Year 12 Literature and loving it. Other ones that stand out are George Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion and all the Shakespeare we studied, especially Othello.

As for which ones students should never be forced to read, that’s difficult.
Even books that I haven’t loved have given me something to think about. A mix of literature is important though - classic, contemporary, prose, poetry, lyrics. Maybe for every classic there should be one text that students choose.

4. One book you recommend to everyone?

Definitely The Princess Bride by William Goldman. True love and high adventure.

5. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

If I had to choose this second it would be the Amalfi Coast. It looks so incredibly beautiful. But maybe from there I could head across to Paris. And on the way home I could stop off in New York. I’d love to visit The Museum of Modern Art.

6. Are you working on anything at the moment? If so, please tell us a bit about it.

I’m finishing off Graffiti Moon, to be published by Pan Macmillan in August this year.

Lucy Dervish is the main character and she’s on this all-night adventure to find Shadow, a graffiti artist everyone talks about. Lucy’s sure that if they could actually meet, the two of them would really hit it off.

Shadow paints these amazing pictures all over the city - birds trapped on brick walls and people lost in ghost forests. He paints guys with grass growing from their hearts and girls with buzzing lawn mowers. That’s all Lucy knows of him, and from this she’s decided what he must be like.

During the night Lucy runs into Ed, who’s pretty much the last guy she wants to have anything to do with. He knows where to find Shadow, though; so the two of them start searching for him together.

It’s about art - how it gives people another language, another way to enter the world. It’s about love too. I like the line on the cover: an artist, a dreamer, a long mean night.

7. Any last words?

If anyone has any other questions they can find me at cathcrowley.com.au or on the Cath Crowley Author facebook page.

And thanks to everyone who has read A Little Wanting Song. It’s exciting to have the book out in another country.

Thanks so much for joining us Cath!

Contest Winner: Lifted

2010-06-20T21:47:00.000-07:00

I'm happy to announce the winner of 1 signed copy of Lifted by Wendy Toliver, a book I loved. Without further ado, according to a random number generator, the winner is:

Anna!

Congratulations! I've emailed you about your win.

Look forward to say...four more contests? How's that sound?

Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine

2010-06-20T13:42:00.000-07:00

Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine

Publication Date/Version: April 2010/Hardcover

Publisher: Philomel

Age Group: Young Adult

Received From: Around The World Tours (Thanks!)

Eleven-year-old Caitlin has recently lost her brother, Devon, to a school shooting. Under any circumstances, that would be hard to cope with, but for Caitlin it's even harder. Caitlin has Asperger's. She has trouble deciphering others' emotions, therefore making it hard for her to connect with others. As she searches for closure, she comes closer to understanding others and realizes that things aren't always neat and tidy.

Mockingbird reminded me of House on Mango Street with its short, vignette-like chapters. I'm a sucker for short chapters actually. The book went by quickly, as it was short and small. I finished it under a day, but it left an impression in that short period of time.

Caitlin is both easy and hard to connect with at the same time. She's going through a lot of pain because of her brother's death and her father's somewhat helpless attitude. Because of this, you feel for her. At the same time, she makes situations awkward and doesn't know when not to speak. It made me cringe a bit, but then I had to realize she didn't have much control. It was one of those situations you wanted to watch but felt bad doing so.

Throughout the story, Caitlin, as well as her father, progress from a state of disbelief to a state of closure. She is still wary of others, but she begins to feel and recognize people's emotions, allowing her to grow closer. She makes a friend who happens to be related to the shooting in some way. The most important lessons she learns, one that all of us could learn, is not to judge people based on how they act. People act that way out of hardship and Caitlin learns this difficult lessons by the end of the story. That's what stuck with me the most: we should give other people chances before we judge them.

While this book is difficult to sum up, it was simple and important. It retaught me lessons that everyone should put into practice. I recommend picking this up so that you can revisit what it really means to be kind and understanding of others, even in hard times.

Overall: Simple and important. Teaches life lessons that we shouldn't forget. Good take on mental illness.

My Advice: Buy it or borrow it. Whichever you're more inclined towards.

Cover: This is why I initially picked up the book. I love it. It's plain, yet striking. The title and presentation have so much meaning after reading the book.

*This was read as a part of the 100+ Reading Challenge

In My Mailbox (41)

2010-06-19T22:01:00.000-07:00

IMM is a weekly meme that explores the contents of one's mailbox. IMM was started by Kristi at The Story Siren. Descriptions are from Goodreads. This IMM is from the last two weeks, not just one.

For Review:

Split by Swati Avasthi

(ARC/Released March 2010/Knopf)

Sixteen-Year-Old Jace Witherspoon arrives at the doorstep of his estranged brother Christian with a re-landscaped face (courtesy of his father’s fist), $3.84, and a secret.

He tries to move on, going for new friends, a new school, and a new job, but all his changes can’t make him forget what he left behind—his mother, who is still trapped with his dad, and his ex-girlfriend, who is keeping his secret. At least so far.

Worst of all, Jace realizes that if he really wants to move forward, he may first have to do what scares him most: He may have to go back. First-time novelist Swati Avasthi has created a riveting and remarkably nuanced portrait of what happens after. After you’ve said enough, after you’ve run, after you’ve made the split — how do you begin to live again? Readers won’t be able to put this intense page-turner down.

I just finished reading this, and I loved it. Stunning book. I received this from Around The World Tours. Review to come.

Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine

(ARC/Released April 2010/Philomel)

I've finished this one as well, and it was great. It reminded me of House on Mango Street with its vignette-like short chapters. I received this from Around The World Tours. Review to come.

The Exile of Gigi Lane by Adrienne Maria Vrettos

(ARC/Released April 2010/McElderry Books)

Heathers meets Bring It On in The Exile of Gigi Lane, where a high school queen bee's rise to glory is nothing compared to her fall from it.

I received this for review from Around The World Tours.

My Double Life by Janette Rallison

(ARC/Released May 2010/Putnam)

I received this for review from Around The World Tours. This is what I'll be reading next. Hope I like it.

Manifest by Artist Arthur

(ARC/Releases August 2010/Kimani Press)

Krystal Bentley is an outsider at her new high school, having just moved to a small Connecticut town. Lately she's been hearing the voice of a teenage boy in her head, and he has become her friend and confidant. The only problem is, he's dead...

Ricky Watson was killed a year ago in the alley behind Krystal's new school. The rumor mill is filled with stories of Ricky and his untimely death. Unfortunately, as a ghost, Ricky is unable to investigate his own murder, so Ricky needs Krystal to find the truth and she needs someone to listen. When Krystal befriends Sasha and Jake, both outcasts at her high school, the threesome soon discover that they have more in common than their outsider status. Each has a unique paranormal ability and an unusual birthmark in the shape of an "M." Jake announces that the M must stand for misfits, and so the three form an unusual clique. They soon realize that solving Ricky's murder can help them understand the mystery behind their powers and may reveal whether there are others like them.

This sounds really good! I can't wait to read it. Thanks to Lisa for sending this to me!

Won:

The Blind Contessa's New Machine by Carey Wallace (What a beautiful cover in person!)

Freshwater Boys by Adam Schuitema

The Homecoming by Dan Walsh

All are from the Goodreads First Reads program.

Tension of Opposites swag from Kelsey (Thanks!)

The Red Priest's Annina swag from Sarah, the author (Thanks!)

Swapped:

The Deadly Sister by Eliot Schrefer (ARC)

Dying to read this! No pun intended.

Bought:

If I Stay by Gayle Forman (Signed! Pretty new paperback cover)
Oh. My. Gods. by Tera Lynn Childs

Soulless by Christopher Golden

Impossible by Nancy Werlin

Troy by Adele Geras

Powell's is awesome! I got all of those, including a signed edition, for just over 25 dollars. Plus, free shipping.

Needless to say, I had an amazing last couple of weeks!! How about you?

Summer time!

2010-06-17T16:01:00.000-07:00

It's official. It's summer! Finals are over, tests are done, goodbyes have been said. I'm out and I'm so ready for it. Be on the lookout for frequent posts. There are tons of reviews, interviews, giveaways, and random posts coming up soon.

Wednesday Wishlist (18)

2010-06-16T16:22:00.000-07:00

Crossing Over
by Anna Kendall

Whether it's a curse, or a blessing, or an ability, the fact remains: whenever Roger is injured or in enough pain he crosses over to the land of the dead. Once there, there are rules: only the newly dead will talk, for example, and nothing will raise the longer dead from their tranquillity.

There are rules in the land of the living as well; rules which would have Roger hanged for witchcraft if he was ever caught. But refusing to cross over isn't an option. His uncle depends on Roger to hide under the table in their fairground act, listen to the recently bereaved asking questions of their dear departed, and then cross over to find the answers. It's a hard way of life, made all the harder as his uncle's fists usually provide the trigger for Roger to cross over.

It's not the only way of life, though, and when Roger sees a chance to escape he fights for it - little knowing that love, loss, shocking revelations and, ultimately, war lie ahead of him.

Just because Roger can cross over into the land of the dead doesn't mean he wants to.

Reasons I want to read this:
1. As with all of my picks, again, look at that cover. Gorgeous.
2. What an amazing concept.
3. I have a feeling it will be a bit historical and a lot paranormal, a great combination.
4. It's one of those books I simply feel I have to read.

My Life Be Like...

2010-06-15T20:38:00.000-07:00

Oi. Sorry for the cheesy song reference. I'm here to tell you that I've almost survived and to apologize for my lack of posts. I seem to be doing that a lot lately. Saturday was my older brother (Okay, not technically. He's my best friend's older brother, but he might as well be related to me) graduated from high school so I went of course. Maybe I'll post pictures later.(Should I?) I spent all day Sunday studying for finals.

Want to see my schedule? Here it is:
Last Wednesday: Health
Last Thursday: Spanish 2
Monday: Religion and Geometry
Tuesday: Honors Literature and Honors Biology
Wednesday: AP European History

After tomorrow, I'll be all done and out for the summer! I'll be a junior. And Wednesday my good friend's little sister is graduating from 8th grade, so I'm going to that. I love graduation season - it's an excuse to look nice.

Question: Would you, my readers, care to see pictures of myself so you can get a visual? Would you like me to do a short post about my life in general? A couple people have asked about me. If any of this interests you, leave a comment!

I'm back?

2010-06-10T17:52:00.000-07:00

Hiatus, schmiauts. I found that I actually have more time than I thought. So I believe my self-declared hiatus is out the window. Look forward to reviews, author interviews, and contests!

Anxious Hearts by Tucker Shaw

2010-06-10T17:32:00.001-07:00

Anxious Hearts by Tucker Shaw

Publication Date/Version: May 2010/Hardcover

Publisher: Amulet Books

Age Group: Young Adult

Received From: Around The World Tours (Thanks!)

“Evangeline,” he repeated, calling at a whisper. “Evangeline.” He was not calling that she may hear, he was calling that somehow her soul might know that he was devoted entirely to her, only to her. “Evangeline, I will find you.”

Eva and Gabe explore the golden forest of their seaside Maine town, unknowingly tracing the footsteps of two teens, Evangeline and Gabriel, who once lived in the idyllic wooded village of Acadia more than one hundred years ago. On the day that Evangeline and Gabriel were be wed, their village was attacked and the two were separated. And now in the present, Gabe has mysteriously disappeared from Eva.

A dreamlike, loose retelling of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s famous love poem “Evangeline,” Anxious Hearts tells an epic tale of unrequited love and the hope that true love can be reunited.

Eva and Gabe, Evangeline and Gabriel. Two pairs whose fates are unknowingly intertwined through a tiny seaside town. Eva and Gabe, the modern pair, aren't a couple, but things are leaning that way. Both have lost their mothers, and only they can truly understand each other. Evangeline and Gabriel, the classic couple, are destined to be married after a picturesque courting. On the day of their wedding, however, the two are separated. The present reflects the past as Gab disappears from Eva. Will either pair reunite, or will love be lost?

Anxious Hearts switches not only perspective, but time periods as well. The book changes from present to past, Eva to Gabriel. Both offer similar but unique stories. And each is equally enthralling.

Both tales were comforting and alluring. The love described was aching, painful, and hopeful. Gabriel was a true gentleman, and Evangeline was feisty and independent. Their story was one of an ideal courtship in a more simple time. Gabriel had an intense love for Evangeline, and it really came off of the pages. In the modern setting, Gabe and Eva simply understood each other. That was what made their connection so real and strong. Both had lost their mothers, and only the other could fully understand. No one else knew the pain they were going through, and they were able to find solstice in each other.

Each perspective offered something different, both aspects being enjoyable. Within Eva's story I found excitement and spontaneity, while in Gabriel's I found wonderful prose and a heart-wrenching story. I loved how each storyteller had a different font and design to go along with their story.

I anxiously flipped pages, finishing this quickly. Both stories left me satisfied, if not more than a bit sad. They weren't perfect endings, and that's what made them all the better. They were real and whole. I have not read the poem Evangeline, but I intend to after this beautiful book.

Overall: Gorgeous stories of love, hope, and understanding. Great alternative perspectives.

My Advice: Buy a copy. I look forward to owning it. I can't wait to read much more by Tucker Shaw.

The Cover: This is what originally drew me to the book. I love the model, but the background feels a bit fake to me. I also don't like the title font, but the model is so lovely that she makes up for the rest.

*This was read as a part of the 100+ Reading Challenge

Hiatus

2010-06-07T22:01:00.000-07:00

Hola! Yes, one more hiatus this year. But a short one! Finals will be over next Wednesday, and I'll be out of school for the summer. Lots of time for blogging. Hang in with me until then. Right now is supposed to be dead week. Funny how I have five tests this week. Yeah, it's not actually. ;]

Thanks for sticking around! I'll see you next Wednesday.

In My Mailbox (40)

2010-06-05T13:01:00.000-07:00

IMM is a weekly meme that explores the contents of one's mailbox. IMM was started by Kristi at The Story Siren. Descriptions are from Goodreads.

For Review:

Middleworld by J&P Voelkel

(PB/April 2010/EgmontUSA)

Fourteen-year-old Max Murphy is looking forward to a family vacation. But his parents, both archaeologists and Maya experts, announce a change in plan. They must leave immediately for a dig in the tiny Central American country of San Xavier. Max will go to summer camp. Max is furious. When he's mysteriously summoned to San Xavier, he thinks they've had a change of heart.

Upon his arrival, Max's wild adventure in the tropical rainforests of San Xavier begins. During his journey, he will unlock ancient secrets and meet strangers who are connected to him in ways he could never have imagined. For fate has delivered a challenge of epic proportions to this pampered teenager. Can Max rescue his parents from the Maya Underworld and save the world from the Lords of Death, who now control the power of the Jaguar Stones in their villainous hands? The scene is set for a roller-coaster ride of suspense and terror, as the good guys and the bad guys face off against a background of haunted temples, zombie armies, and even human sacrifice!

I love historical fiction and adventure, so I can't wait to read this. Plus, I've heard great things about it. I received this from Goodman Media.

Forbidden Sea by Sheila A. Nielson
(ARC/Releases July 2010/Scholastic)

When Adrianne comes face-to-face with the mermaid of Windwaithe Island, of whom she has heard terrible stories all her life, she is convinced the mermaid means to take her younger sister. Adrianne, fierce-willed and courageous, is determined to protect her sister from the mermaid, and her family from starvation. However, the mermaid continues to haunt Adrianne in her dreams and with her song.

Yet, when the islanders find out about Adrianne's encounters with the mermaid she is scorned, for this small and superstitious community believes the mermaid will bring devastation to the island if Adrianne does not give herself to the sea.

A powerful and lyrical story of one girl who must choose between having everything and having those she loves.

Interesting premise. Can't wait to get started. I received this from Around The World Tours.

Won:
Gentlemen by Michael Northrop

Michael sent me a wonderful signed and personalized copy, along with a couple of cute toys from a local toy store. Thanks!

Mini Reviews (2)

2010-06-03T13:00:00.000-07:00

Mini Reviews is composed of, well, small reviews. These will likely be books I read forever ago or didn't enjoy a whole lot, but did finish. These reviews will be short and sweet.

Boys, Girls and Other Hazardous Materials Rosalind Wiseman

Surprisingly good story. I expected a lot of fluff, but it turned out to be deeper than I was prepared for. Charlie and Will were both good characters.

Some Girls Are by Courtney Summers

All I can say is that I honestly hated this book. I've never disliked a book as strongly as this one. It guess it's good that Summers can make me feel such strong emotion, but the story was depressing. It was like a black hole. Regina was a beyotch, as were her ex-friends. Honestly, were do things like this happen? Because I have never, ever in my life experienced or seen someone experience anything like this. While reading this book, I felt so depressed. I honestly felt that I had no friends and that there was no hope left in my life. It sucked every single positive feeling out of me. I had to put it down often because I didn't like who I was when I read this. I've never been that depressed or lonely before. It was unbelievably scary that I experienced these kind of emotions from a book.

Never Bite A Boy on the First Date by Tamara Summers

Fluff. Another vapid addition to the vampire bandwagon. Read it if you must. I don't think my brain can honestly take more of this mush.

Time You Let Me In by Naomi Shihab Nye

Poems from 26 poets all under 25. I enjoyed a lot of these, though I was lost as to what a lot of them were about. That's probably just because I'm terribly with poetry. Many were creative, while others focused on intense subjects. I recommend it to mature audiences, as I think they'll be best understood by older ages.

Wednesday Wishlist (17)

2010-06-02T12:00:00.000-07:00

Revolution
by Jennifer Donnelly

BROOKLYN: Andi Alpers is on the edge. She’s angry at her father for leaving, angry at her mother for not being able to cope, and heartbroken by the loss of her younger brother, Truman. Rage and grief are destroying her. And she’s about to be expelled from Brooklyn Heights’ most prestigious private school when her father intervenes. Now Andi must accompany him to Paris for winter break.

PARIS: Alexandrine Paradis lived over two centuries ago. She dreamed of making her mark on the Paris stage, but a fateful encounter with a doomed prince of France cast her in a tragic role she didn’t want—and couldn’t escape.

Two girls, two centuries apart. One never knowing the other. But when Andi finds Alexandrine’s diary, she recognizes something in her words and is moved to the point of obsession. There’s comfort and distraction for Andi in the journal’s antique pages—until, on a midnight journey through the catacombs of Paris, Alexandrine’s words transcend paper and time, and the past becomes suddenly, terrifyingly present.

Reasons I want to read this:

1. I absolutely love Jennifer Donnelly! Her first Young Adult novel, A Northern Light, is one of my top 5 favorite books of all time.

2. I love historical fiction!

3. I think it's incredibly interesting when two time periods intersect (finding an old diary, etc.)

Teaser Tuesday (16)

2010-06-01T21:42:00.000-07:00

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading in which one grabs her current read, opens to a random page, and gives two "teaser" sentences from that page.

"Urban chaos was intense simulation for a mind that didn't have an off switch - jarring sirens, drunk people fighting with their lovers on cell phones, six-inch robo-heels chasing the bus, and the scent of piss on newspaper. Watching humans on any downtown street corner was no different than watching a group of sea lions fight over that perfect spot at Sea World."

Page 6, Harmonic Feedback by Tara Kelly

Enjoy!

In My Mailbox (39)

2010-05-29T23:00:00.000-07:00

IMM is a weekly meme that explores the contents of one's mailbox. IMM was started by Kristi at The Story Siren. Descriptions are from Goodreads.

For Review:
-The Tension of Opposites by Kristina McBride (!!)
-In a Heartbeat by Loretta Ellsworth
-Harmonic Feedback by Tara Kelly
-Stranded by J.T. Dutton (Sounds crazy good)
-Forgive My Fins by Tera Lynn Childs (!!)
-Forget-Her-Nots by Amy Brecount White (!!)
-Zillah's Gift by Lois West Duffy
-Wings by Aprilynne Pike
-The Beautiful Beatween by Alyssa B. Sheinmel

Trades:
-Wake by Lisa McMann

I had a wonderful week! My review books came from ReaderViews and Around The World Tours. I'm a bit overwhelmed, but I'm excited to start reading. Which to read first?

Well, this slideshow basically failed. As you can see, I deleted it. I won't be doing that again. It's actually more work than what I normally do.

How was your week?

Contest: Lifted

2010-05-28T19:33:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the lovely Wendy Toliver, I have 1 signed copy of Lifted by Wendy Toliver to give away! You can read my review and interview.

Poppy Browne is none too thrilled to be the new girl in Pleasant Acres, Texas--especially after her mother enrolls her in a private Baptist school. But to her delight, Poppy is pulled into the cool clique on her first day at Calvary High, and her new friends, Mary Jane and Whitney, are as genuinely nice as they are gorgeous and rich.

The catch? Her new pals have a nasty shoplifting habit, and before long Poppy is also a theft enthusiast. But when the girls' addictions get out of hand and friendships are threatened, it's up to Poppy to set things right...

Information:

Contest closed! Thanks for participating.

Interview: Wendy Toliver, author of Lifted

2010-05-28T19:21:00.000-07:00

Please welcome Wendy Toliver, the author of Lifted. You can read my review here. Wendy Toliver has explored a variety of jobs, from impersonating Marilyn Monroe for singing telegrams to impersonating a computer geek at an ad agency.

Now she calls Eden, Utah home and lives with her husband, three little boys, two dogs, cat, crab, and an occasional mole.

When not working on her next novel, Wendy enjoys reading, skiing, acting, traveling, volunteering, and shooting hoops. Though she’s never been mistaken for a Siren, she has been mistaken for the Wendy’s hamburger girl.

1. Describe your new book in 50 words or less.
Poppy hates moving to a Bible belt town, but then two popular girls take her under their wings. They’re shoplifters, and she learns their secret pastime gives her an amazing rush. When her entire world crashes down, Poppy must decide how far she’ll go to protect herself and those she loves.

2. What inspired you to write Lifted? What encouraged you to write about theft?
I was watching a show on TV about how shoplifting is a huge problem, especially with teens, and thought it would make an interesting topic for a book. Most people have either shoplifted themselves, have been tempted to try it, or know someone who has, so I think it’s something we can all relate to.

3. What are you guilty pleasures in life?
Diet Coke, chocolate covered cinnamon bears, sleeping in (or going to bed early), red wine, take-out pizza, Britney Spears's music, "The Vampire Diaries" on TV, car dancing, Aussie accents, lotions and potions, Facebook/Twitter, Target, Red Robin's French fries (can you tell by my answers that I'm hungry? LOL)

4. Everyone reads classics in high school English. Which ones did you love? Which ones should students never be forced to read?

I loved the ones by Oscar Wilde and Charles Dickens. Hated Moby Dick (sorry, Melville).

5. One book you would recommend to absolutely everyone?

Green Eggs and Ham.

6. Are you working on anything at the moment? If so, please tell us a little about it.
I'm working on a paranormal YA but it's in the very beginning stages right now so there's really not much to tell except that it will be very different from anything else I've written.

7. Any last words?

Thanks so much for interviewing me, McKenzie! If anyone wants to check out the book trailer for Lifted (or get more info), take a peek at my web-site: http://wendytoliver.com/lifted.htm
Also, I blog for several amazing YA group blogs, and we love visitors.
http://www.teenfictioncafe.blogspot.com/
http://www.booksboysbuzz.com/
http://www.pulserocom.com/

Finally, I just wanted to mention that I love visiting schools, libraries, bookstores, and book clubs (in person or via Skype) so contact me if you're interested. http://www.wendytoliver.com/contact.htm

Thanks so much for joining us Wendy!

Wednesday Wishlist (16)

2010-05-26T13:28:00.000-07:00

Classy
by Derek Blasberg

If you’ve ever wondered how to climb the social ladder with grace, how to feel confident in every situation, or even how to make a lasting impression (but not the kind that lands you on the latest “Worst Dressed List”)—Derek Blasberg is here, with quotes and secrets from all the socialites so girls everywhere can learn how to have class.

This hilarious handbook will provide everything you need to know about fashion, socializing, dating, and etiquette. With tons of practical tips and tools for learning to flaunt what you’ve got, dozens of specific how-tos, common no-nos, and huge blunders that even smart girls make, this tongue-in-cheek book will train you to be a lady, and not a tramp!

Reasons I want to read this:

1. Looks hilarious and snarky! The cover alone cracks me up.
2. I've flipped through it somewhere, and the tips were wonderful.
3. Love the images in the book

A Little Wanting Song by Cath Crowley

2010-05-24T20:13:00.000-07:00

A Little Wanting Song by Cath Crowley

Publication Date/Version: June 2010/Hardcover

Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers

Age Group: Young Adult

Received From: Around The World Tours (Thanks!)

Charlie has her music and freedom, but no mother or close family. Rose has her mother and close friends, but no freedom whatsoever. Charlie visits her grandpa along withe her dad in a small Australian town. Rose received a scholarship to a science school; now she just needs a way to go there. Rose sees Charlie as her way out. Over the course of the summer, love is found and lost and friendships are made and broken.

A Little Wanting Song is simply remarkable. Its portrayal of character growth is remarkable. The prose is beautiful, expressive, and gorgeous. The writing, combined with the fluid motion of the story and the transformation of the characters, made the book a true treasure.

Charlie begins as a loner - outcast from her family by an isolating father, with no mother to turn to. She has few friends, and the ones she did have ditched her for her lack of spontaneity and excitement. Rose has two best friends she would never trade for the world, but she is trapped in a small backwater town with no way to get out. Her controlling mother won't allow her to leave to go to school, though she has a scholarship. Charlie envies Rose because of her perfect friends and her steely attitude, while Rose envies Charlie because of her freedom. Rose quickly sees a way in which she can use Charlie to get what she wants, and she quickly invites Charlie to be a part of the group.

Charlie starts as a pushover character with little motivating her, but she develops into a headstrong and independent woman. She cultivates her talent for music, shattering her fears. She realizes that Rose is in just a difficult situation as her. Rose initially seeks out Charlie only to use her, but she soon realizes that Charlie's life isn't all she thought it would be. Rose changes her views and beings to see Charlie as a true friend. Her beginning intentions, however, don't go unnoticed.

The character development in A Little Wanting Song was like no other. Each character underwent a radical change, including the secondary characters. I was enticed by their growth and transformation together as a cast of characters. The book was filled with a surprising amount of humor that was just my style. It was sarcastic (love it!) and perfectly timed.

The romantic side of things was electric, intensified only by beautiful prose. The prose of this story is really what drew me in. Literally a page and a half into the book, I set it down, looked up, and told my mom, "This book is going to be amazing." I was right. Cath Crowley manages to express common emotions and thoughts in just the right way. I would read a sentence and think That's it! That's exactly how I felt. Ms. Crowley captured emotions at their deepest level with perfect wording.

A Little Wanting Song is stunning, expressive, and elicits intense emotion from the reader.

Overall: Gorgeous prose. Stunning and remarkable. Character development like no other.

My Advice: Buy it. A must own. I look forward to the day when I have a copy for myself.

Cover: One thing: the girl's hair looks greasy! That's the one problem I have with this whole book. Other than that, the cover combines Rose's and Charlie's decorative designs used throughout their alternating chapters, an element that I love.

*This was read as a part of the 100+ Reading Challenge

Updates: What's Going On

2010-05-23T20:36:00.000-07:00

Hello all! I thought I'd do a quick updates post and let you all know what's coming up on The Book Owl. School is coming to a close - just over 3 weeks left (whoo!) - and I'll have tons of time to update and chat. I thought, in the meantime, I'd give you an idea of what you can expect over the next couple of weeks at this here blog.

Reviews you can expect:
Boys, Girls, and Other Hazardous Materials by Rosalind Wiseman
Some Girls Are by Courtney Summers
Never Bite A Boy on the First Date by Tamara Summers
Anxious Hearts by Tucker Shaw
Wayfarer by R.J. Anderson
Boys, Bears, and a Serious Pair of Hiking Boots by Abby McDonald
A Little Wanting Song by Cath Crowley
Time You Let Me In selected by Naomi Shihab Nye (Do you enjoy reviews of poetry collections?)
Shadow Hills by Anastasia Hopcus
Restoring Harmony by Joelle Anthony
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot (Adult nonfiction that I loved!)

Other fun things:
Two author interviews
Giveaway for a signed, finished copy of an upcoming release that I thoroughly enjoyed!
Giveaway for a signed, ARC copy of a highly anticipated book that I loved!

I look forward to seeing everyone more frequently over the next few weeks!

PS. Do you like posts like these? Feel free to say no. You won't hurt my feelings.

In My Mailbox (38)

2010-05-22T11:48:00.000-07:00

IMM is a weekly meme that explores the contents of one's mailbox. IMM was started by Kristi at The Story Siren. Descriptions are from Goodreads.

For Review:

Shadow Hills by Antastasia Hopcus

(ARC/Releases July 2010/Egmont USA)

Since her sister’s mysterious death, Persephone “Phe” Archer has been plagued by a series of disturbing dreams. Determined to find out what happened to her sister, Phe enrolls at Devenish Prep in Shadow Hills, Massachusetts—the subject of her sister’s final diary entry.

After stepping on campus, Phe immediately realizes that there’s something different about this place—an unexplained epidemic that decimated the town in the 1700s, an ancient and creepy cemetery, and gorgeous boy Zach—and somehow she’s connected to it all.

But the more questions she asks and the deeper she digs, the more entangled Phe becomes in the haunting past of Shadow Hills. Finding what links her to this town…might cost her her life.

I've already read this, and I really enjoyed it. A review will be up soon. I received this from Around The World Tours.

From Trades:

Karma for Beginners by Jessica Blank

Other:

Irene Latham, author of Leaving Gee's Bend, sent me a lovely postcard thanking me for my review.

I had a bit of a slow week, but it was still a good one! What about you?

Spring: Why I Love It

2010-05-21T17:30:00.000-07:00

Spring is in the air! Here in Oregon the flowers are popping up, exploding their wonderful colors. The baby animals are crawling around. We have four baby lambs this year. The sun is coming out, and everyone's happy. I love spring. Why? Because...

1. The days get warmer. You can still wear pretty scarves and jackets, but not you can wear skirts and dresses just because!

Spring inspires me to look nicer and try a little harder. Who doesn't want to wear a pretty, flouncy skirt on a warm day? No more drab colors. Bring on the reds, oranges, blues, and yellows! Spring brings out the vibrant hues of life. Sandals, flip flops, bright jewelry. Things that make you happy.

2. Driving with the windows down. Breezy music pumping from the speakers with as much bass as possible. Singing along. Random road trips for no reason.

You know how much fun it is. Driving nowhere, your best friend in the other seat. Listening to calm, sweet music. Your hair is flying, your hand is out the window. You smile for no reason. You're extra warm. The sun filters through the window, no breeze to make you cold.

3. Thunder and lightning storms!

You can see the storms coming hours ahead of time. The clouds are swirly and tall. It's always warm out, and the flashes streak across the sky. I love the colors involved: black, purple, blue, and white. The noise is powerful and strong. Storms are the best.

4. Everyone's happy!

Whenever the sun comes out, people are instantly happy. Here in Oregon, we go through about nine months of cold, wet, rainy weather before spring comes. On that first day of sunshine, everyone eats outside, chatters endlessly, and smiles nonstop. A lot of people suffer from seasonal depression, so it's wonderful to get some vitamin D. In the spring you can sit outside, tan, and read a book. I love spring!

What about you? What's your favorite part of spring?

*images from weheartit.com

Spell Hunter by R.J. Anderson

2010-05-20T16:45:00.000-07:00

Spell Hunter by R.J. Anderson

Publication Date/Version: April 2009/Hardcover

Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books

Age Group: Mainly Young Adult, maybe Middle Grade

Received From: Around The World Tours (Thanks!)

Deep inside the great Oak lies a dying faery realm, bursting with secrets instead of magic. Long ago the faeries mysteriously lost their magic. Robbed of their powers, they have become selfish and dull-witted. Now their numbers are dwindling and their very survival is at stake.

Only one young faery—Knife—is determined to find out where her people's magic has gone and try to get it back. Unlike her sisters, Knife is fierce and independent. She's not afraid of anything—not the vicious crows, the strict Faery Queen, or the fascinating humans living nearby. But when Knife disobeys the Faery Queen and befriends a human named Paul, her quest becomes more dangerous than she realizes. Can Knife trust Paul to help, or has she brought the faeries even closer to the brink of destruction?

Knife lives in the Oak, the home of her dying faery realm. In the past, the faeries somehow lost their magic, and, without it, they have become secretive and dim-witted. Because they are unable to reproduce, their numbers are shrinking. It's up to Knife to bring back her people's magic, even if it means risking her own life. She soon befriends a human named Paul, something that is strictly against the rules. Paul, however, may be able to help her in her quest, but he may also harm the faery realm.

Spell Hunter was simply stunning. R.J. Anderson has created an enticing world full of magic and lore. The faery clan holds immense secrets, making it difficult to know who to trust. Each faery was completely unique, and their jobs made them even more so. Knife quickly learns that she is to become the next hunter, and Thorn is to teach her the ways of hunting. Don't you think it would be interesting to know which job you would receive? Those are the kinds of things that intrigue me - knowing what I'm best suited for and why I would be chosen for something. Anyways, seeing the process of Knife become a hunter was exhilarating and exciting, and her journey was just beginning.

Knife was a perfect main character. She had drive, a backbone (gasp!), humor, and she wouldn't take no for an answer. She fought for what she wanted, and she was willing to risk her life in doing so. Her interactions with Paul were touching and grew into something with a hint of romantic interest. I enjoyed their relationship and its progress throughout the book.

Knife's journey led to the discovery of some very interesting information that pushed the faery clan in the right direction. The process of discovery was fascinating, and I loved the lore behind Spell Hunter. The world was rich in detail, and I could imagine it easily. Living out in the country as I do, it's fun to imagine I might have my own faery population in my backyard. Spell Hunter was a wonderful take on the faery world, and I cannot wait to read the sequel.

Overall: Stunning. Incredibly exciting and descriptive. Wonderful characters.

My Advice: Buy it. It's a must read.

Cover: It's a bit too young looking, but it accurately portrays Knife and her home. I really love all of it, but I think changing the title font/layout would help to improve the overall aesthetics of the cover.

*This was read as a part of the 100+ Reading Challenge

In My Mailbox (37)

2010-05-16T10:21:00.000-07:00

IMM is a weekly meme that explores the contents of one's mailbox. IMM was started by Kristi at The Story Siren. Descriptions are from Goodreads.

Short post this week!

For Review:
-Ship Breaker by Paolo Bacigalupi
-Faithful by Janet Fox (Whoo!)
-Don't Know Where, Don't Know When by Annette Laing
-A Different Day, A Different Destiny by Annette Laing
-A Little Wanting Song by Cath Crowley
-Boys, Bears, and A Serious Pair of Hiking Boots by Abby McDonald
-Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

Won:
-Wings Without Birds by Brian Henry
-The Ghost, the Eggheads, and Babe Ruth's Piano by Larry Sweitzer

I had an awesome week! What about you?

Still Sucks to Be Me by Kimberly Pauley

2010-05-14T14:47:00.000-07:00

Still Sucks to Be Me by Kimberly Pauley

Publication Date/Version: May 2010/Hardcover

Publisher: Mirrorstone

Age Group: Young Adult

Received From: Around The World Tours (Thanks!)

With vampire boyfriend George and best friend Serena by her side, Mina thought she had her whole life—or rather afterlife—ahead of her. But then Mina’s parents drop a bomb. They’re moving. To Louisiana. And not somewhere cool like New Orleans, but some teeny, tiny town where cheerleaders and jocks rule the school. Mina has to fake her death, change her name, and leave everything behind, including George and Serena. Not even the Vampire Council’s shape-shifting classes can cheer her up. Then Serena shows up on Mina’s doorstep with some news that sends Mina reeling. Mina may look a lot better with fangs, but her afterlife isn’t any less complicated!

Now that Mina's a vampire, she's had to leave behind her old life. New name, new identity, a new town. She left behind George, her boyfriend, and Serena, her best friend, having to fake her own death. Mina's previous life, however, is catching up with her quicker than she thought. Between shape-shifting classes and a rather attractive boy, Mina's got plenty to deal with.

Still Sucks to Be Me, the sequel to Sucks to Be Me, continues the story of Mina, teenage vampire extraordinaire. It's similar to the first in style, humor, and layout. Each chapter starts with a vampire myth, and many chapters have lists about all sorts of things. I loved the tongue-in-cheek references to Twilight and other popular vampire media.

Mina's your typical teenager, besides the vampireness. She's funny, albeit a bit dramatic. There's a whole onslaught of characters, but each brings their own characteristic to the story. Raven's insane, George is lovable, Cameron is mysterious, and Serena is the awesome best friend. The characters really make up the story.

There was some interesting background in this installment, though I wish we knew more about it. We were introduced to the Carter Clan and their possible involvement with the Black Talons. I felt, however, that I didn't learn nearly as much about them as I would've liked to. I imagine this is because of another installment in this series' future.

Overall: Quick, light read. A bit forgettable, but a fun weekend read. I would pass over it for something with a bit more substance, but others may enjoy its lightheartedness.

My Advice: Borrow it.

Cover: I don't know why, but that girls hair drives me cray to no end. And her blue eyes look very unnatural. I like the blue of the suitcase, but the rest of the cover seems overdone, I suppose.

*This was read as a part of the 100+ Reading Challenge

Wednesday Wishlist (15)

2010-05-12T10:00:00.000-07:00

Bird
by Rita Murphy

A girl easily carried off by the wind. An elderly widow whose husband died under strange circumstances. An isolated dwelling that breeds fear. Miranda has no recollection of where she came from—only that years ago, a gust of wind deposited her outside Bourne Manor. The Manor’s sole inhabitant, Wysteria Barrows, took Miranda in and promptly outfitted her with special boots—boots weighted with steel bars to keep her anchored to the ground. But aside from shelter and clothing, Miranda receives little warmth from the aging widow. The Manor, too, is a cold place, full of drafts and locked doors. Full of menace. Full of secrets. Then one day a boy named Farley appears. Farley helps Miranda embrace her destiny with the wind . . . and uncover the Manor’s hidden past.

Reasons I want to read this:
1. What an intriguing description.
2. The cover is gorgeous!
3. It reminds me of Howl's Moving Castle and The Wide Window
4. It sounds like a piece of art, more than just a book.

Lifted by Wendy Toliver

2010-05-11T19:52:00.000-07:00

Lifted by Wendy Toliver
Publication Date/Version: June 2010/Paperback
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Age Group: Young Adult
Received From: Around The World Tours (Thanks!)

Poppy Browne is none too thrilled to be the new girl in Pleasant Acres, Texas--especially after her mother enrolls her in a private Baptist school. But to her delight, Poppy is pulled into the cool clique on her first day at Calvary High, and her new friends, Mary Jane and Whitney, are as genuinely nice as they are gorgeous and rich.

The catch? Her new pals have a nasty shoplifting habit, and before long Poppy is also a theft enthusiast. But when the girls' addictions get out of hand and friendships are threatened, it's up to Poppy to set things right...

Poppy is forced to move. It might not be so bad except for the fact that she's enrolled in a private Baptist school. Thing is, she isn't religious. Her mother's more worried about Poppy's college application than anything. Poppy is instantly accepted into the popular crowd at Calvary High, and she leaves behind Bridgette, her first-day mentor at Calvary. As Poppy grows closer to Mary Jane and Whitney, she's let in on their dirty secret. They shoplift. Not because they need to, but because they love the adrenaline rush. Soon Poppy is joining in on their escapades and realizing just how much she loves the rush too.

This is my book by Wendy Toliver, and I really enjoyed it! She's definitely an author to watch out for on my list. She made a serious subject approachable, but even more complex. She takes two well-liked and nice, but ultimately hypocritical, popular girls and turns them into criminals. It poses some interesting questions: Are people looking the other way because of their status? Would they get away with this otherwise? Why is such hypocrisy allowed?

Poppy is easy to connect to, and I really enjoyed her. She's fun, spunky, and independent. She's a typical teenager who happens to run into a bad problem. Mary Jane and Whitney both seem to be nice, wholesome individuals, but looks can be deceiving. I really enjoyed the characters. I think their social status made the read even more compelling because you wouldn't expect them to be thieves.

The plot evolved quickly, jumping right into theft and the rush of it. The three girls didn't really need anything; they only did it for the rush. It's easy to see how they could get caught up in it. Oddly enough, I never viewed them as bad people, only good people making bad decisions. Their social standing really did have an effect on my perspective, sad to say. I could see it being easy to fit right into their crowd and go with the flow. They seemed like genuinely nice people.

The ending was a bit too happy, but I was glad someone faced the consequences. I look forward to reading more by Wendy Toliver!

Overall: Quick and fast paced. Thought provoking. Very enjoyable.

My Advice: I would say buy it or borrow it. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and I look forward to owning a copy.

Cover: The cover's a bit plain, but there's a certain something that draws me in. I feel that the girl is a bit too rough to be Polly. I like the simple font, but other than that, there's nothing specific I enjoy.

*This was read as a part of the 100+ Reading Challenge