Hey, guys!
I've started reading An Abundance of Katherines by John Green because it was recommended by my brother. I think I may also start reading If I Stay by Gayle Forman on my Kindle before the movie comes out.
In the meantime, this post is a list, but it's for all you writers and aspiring writers out there who don't know where to start. Hopefully this helps.
As a writer, I know that the first sentence in a story is one of the most important. It's the hook, it's what may or may not convince the reader to keep on reading. The first sentence could make or break the story. And the first sentence could also be the inspiration for the story that follows.
So, here I have compiled a list of first sentences to help you get started with a story or scene.
1) As soon as the light from the chandelier filled the room, (insert name here) wished that (he or she) had stayed in the dark.
2) The day (insert name here) died was the day (he or she) tried frog legs for the first time.
3) Rule number one: never eat pickles or chocolate before bed.
4) (Insert name here) only drank on Thanksgiving and New Year's, but tonight (he or she) made an exception.
5) (Insert name here) took the stairs two at a time and grabbed (his or her) car keys.
6) It was five in the morning and no one else was awake.
7) If someone tells you that it's "just a test," they are flat out lying.
8) When I saw the red liquid on the floor in the kitchen, I thought it was just spilled juice.
9) Nobody ever told me.
10) Surely, this was the worst way to bake a cake.
Hope this helps, guys. :)
Happy writing!!
Thursday, July 31, 2014
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
I Like Tigers
Hey, guys!
Just finished Life of Pi by Yann Martel. No, it's not about popular American pastries, nor about math. It's about a kid, Piscine (a.k.a. Pi), who was in a shipwreck and stranded on a lifeboat in the middle of the Pacific Ocean with a 450 pound live Bengal tiger.
Many of you may have already seen the major motion film based on this novel, Life of Pi. I saw it for the first time during my senior year of high school in my AP Calculus class before I read the book. Yes, we saw a movie with "Pi" in the title in math class.
Regardless, it was a good movie and it made me want to read the book. I read about half of it before I got distracted by other books. When I got back to Life of Pi, I picked up right where I left off.
In a way, I'm glad that I saw the movie first, because the beginning of the book (and the movie) has a bit of a slow start and I'm not sure I would've gotten into the book had I not known that the part where he is stuck on a lifeboat with a tiger will be coming up shortly after a little background.
This background involves a bit about how Pi got his name and his nickname, his family and the zoo that his family owned in India, how his religious faiths came to be, that kind of thing.
So, then the zoo starts to lose money and Pi's father has to sell the property, the animals, and move his family to Canada. They embark on their voyage on a cargo ship full of their zoo animals. And thus it begins.
One stormy night, the ship begins to sink and all the animals are free from their cages for reasons unknown. Pi can't find his family and is thrown by the crew into the lifeboat being lowered in the sea.
Following the sinking of the ship, the lifeboat contains a zebra, a hyena, an orangutan, a tiger, and a boy. Okay, I'll be that guy: What could possibly go wrong?
Well, you guys probably know the answer to that one. I mean, seriously, a tiger. And I'm not talking about a little cub tiger. That ship has sailed. But in this case it sank.
Anyway, all puns aside, this is a journey that challenges and enlightens Pi's spirit and faith all at the same time. Did I mention that Pi is deeply religious? Well, if not then now you know.
And I'm not saying that it's a bad thing. I may not be religious at all, but I don't mind reading books with religious characters so long as they don't get preachy. But I don't think Pi goes that far. Some of the things he sees while lost at sea (thunderstorms, bioluminescent sea creatures, sunsets, starry skies) serve to highlight the wonders of life and, in Pi's eyes, the creations of God.
But if you're not religious and don't like reading about someone talking about God, this probably isn't the book for you. However, if you enjoy survival stories or if you do practice a Christian/Muslim/Hindu faith like Pi, you might want to look into this book a little more.
As far as my opinion on this book goes, I really enjoyed it, although the beginning was a little slow. I also really enjoyed the movie and I highly recommend it as well.
Well, I think it's about time I started posting helpful hints and story starters for writers, so check in tomorrow or the day after for those. Leave comments if you enjoyed this review, have feedback about my blog, or if you want me to read and review a specific book. Until next time.
Happy reading!!
Just finished Life of Pi by Yann Martel. No, it's not about popular American pastries, nor about math. It's about a kid, Piscine (a.k.a. Pi), who was in a shipwreck and stranded on a lifeboat in the middle of the Pacific Ocean with a 450 pound live Bengal tiger.
Many of you may have already seen the major motion film based on this novel, Life of Pi. I saw it for the first time during my senior year of high school in my AP Calculus class before I read the book. Yes, we saw a movie with "Pi" in the title in math class.
Regardless, it was a good movie and it made me want to read the book. I read about half of it before I got distracted by other books. When I got back to Life of Pi, I picked up right where I left off.
In a way, I'm glad that I saw the movie first, because the beginning of the book (and the movie) has a bit of a slow start and I'm not sure I would've gotten into the book had I not known that the part where he is stuck on a lifeboat with a tiger will be coming up shortly after a little background.
This background involves a bit about how Pi got his name and his nickname, his family and the zoo that his family owned in India, how his religious faiths came to be, that kind of thing.
So, then the zoo starts to lose money and Pi's father has to sell the property, the animals, and move his family to Canada. They embark on their voyage on a cargo ship full of their zoo animals. And thus it begins.
One stormy night, the ship begins to sink and all the animals are free from their cages for reasons unknown. Pi can't find his family and is thrown by the crew into the lifeboat being lowered in the sea.
Following the sinking of the ship, the lifeboat contains a zebra, a hyena, an orangutan, a tiger, and a boy. Okay, I'll be that guy: What could possibly go wrong?
Well, you guys probably know the answer to that one. I mean, seriously, a tiger. And I'm not talking about a little cub tiger. That ship has sailed. But in this case it sank.
Anyway, all puns aside, this is a journey that challenges and enlightens Pi's spirit and faith all at the same time. Did I mention that Pi is deeply religious? Well, if not then now you know.
And I'm not saying that it's a bad thing. I may not be religious at all, but I don't mind reading books with religious characters so long as they don't get preachy. But I don't think Pi goes that far. Some of the things he sees while lost at sea (thunderstorms, bioluminescent sea creatures, sunsets, starry skies) serve to highlight the wonders of life and, in Pi's eyes, the creations of God.
But if you're not religious and don't like reading about someone talking about God, this probably isn't the book for you. However, if you enjoy survival stories or if you do practice a Christian/Muslim/Hindu faith like Pi, you might want to look into this book a little more.
As far as my opinion on this book goes, I really enjoyed it, although the beginning was a little slow. I also really enjoyed the movie and I highly recommend it as well.
Well, I think it's about time I started posting helpful hints and story starters for writers, so check in tomorrow or the day after for those. Leave comments if you enjoyed this review, have feedback about my blog, or if you want me to read and review a specific book. Until next time.
Happy reading!!
Monday, July 28, 2014
The Creepiest King Novel Without a Doubt
Hey, guys!
I finally finished Pet Sematary by Stephen King. I just . . . wow.
Here's a good comparison. For those of you who have read The Shining, take that and put it to the fifteenth power. That's how badly this book messes with your mind. Maybe even more.
Louis Creed is a University doctor who has moved from the Midwest to Ludlow, Maine with his family: his wife, Rachel; his five-year-old daughter, Ellie; his infant son, Gage; the family cat, Church.
Their new house resides on the side of Route 15, which almost always has eighteen wheelers barreling down it. It's also across Route 15 from Jud Crandall, a kindly old neighbor who lives with his wife, Norma.
The house is also right near the pet cemetery - otherwise known as the Pet Sematary - where the local kids have been burying their pets since the 1920s. Pets who have been run over on Route 15.
Just like Ellie's cat was run over on Thanksgiving night while she, Rachel, and Gage are in Chicago with the grandparents. Only Louis is at home, spending Thanksgiving Day with Jud and Norma.
That's when Jud decides to do something for Louis, kind of like a favor. Knowing that Ellie will be heart-broken to know that her beloved Church is dead - and possibly traumatized at an age when she is just learning about death - Louis doesn't tell her when she calls from Chicago, and instead follows Jud beyond the Pet Sematary.
There, Church is buried in the Micmac burying ground. This is a place that people have known about (and feared) for decades. A place where people have buried their own pets up there before. Pets. God help the poor fool who buries a loved one, a person, at the Micmac burying ground.
The next day, Church returns. But he's different. As though he's neither dead nor alive. Some kind of an unnatural limbo. Everyone can sense it besides Louis, but it's just beyond their ability to grasp exactly what is wrong with Church.
And the Micmac burying ground has changed Louis as well, just like it changed Jud when he buried his pet dog up there as a kid. It plants a seed of insanity there. The burying ground calls to whomever visits there, prompts them to share the dirty secret that is the burying ground.
So what does this mean for the rest of Louis Creed's family?
If I were to reveal that, the rest of the book would be ruined, and I just can't do that.
For once, I will not prompt you guys to read or not to read this book. That is the question . . . yes, I did just do that. Anyway, as I was saying, this book is messed up. No holds barred creepy. It touches on every single sensitive spot that there is. I do not recommend it for the weak of stomach or for the weak of heart.
If you don't want to read this book, I don't blame you. But if you love horror, have at it. This book takes the sanctity and purity of life and dirties it to teach a lesson that life is holy and that to mess with that is to mess with the order of things.
So, as Paul McCartney puts it, "live and let die."
That's it for this post. I'm going to wait a few hours before I pick up Life of Pi again, because it is way too much of a contrast for me to deal with. But that review is up and coming. I'm about 80% of the way through the book according to my Kindle Fire.
Until next time, guys.
Happy reading!!
I finally finished Pet Sematary by Stephen King. I just . . . wow.
Here's a good comparison. For those of you who have read The Shining, take that and put it to the fifteenth power. That's how badly this book messes with your mind. Maybe even more.
Louis Creed is a University doctor who has moved from the Midwest to Ludlow, Maine with his family: his wife, Rachel; his five-year-old daughter, Ellie; his infant son, Gage; the family cat, Church.
Their new house resides on the side of Route 15, which almost always has eighteen wheelers barreling down it. It's also across Route 15 from Jud Crandall, a kindly old neighbor who lives with his wife, Norma.
The house is also right near the pet cemetery - otherwise known as the Pet Sematary - where the local kids have been burying their pets since the 1920s. Pets who have been run over on Route 15.
Just like Ellie's cat was run over on Thanksgiving night while she, Rachel, and Gage are in Chicago with the grandparents. Only Louis is at home, spending Thanksgiving Day with Jud and Norma.
That's when Jud decides to do something for Louis, kind of like a favor. Knowing that Ellie will be heart-broken to know that her beloved Church is dead - and possibly traumatized at an age when she is just learning about death - Louis doesn't tell her when she calls from Chicago, and instead follows Jud beyond the Pet Sematary.
There, Church is buried in the Micmac burying ground. This is a place that people have known about (and feared) for decades. A place where people have buried their own pets up there before. Pets. God help the poor fool who buries a loved one, a person, at the Micmac burying ground.
The next day, Church returns. But he's different. As though he's neither dead nor alive. Some kind of an unnatural limbo. Everyone can sense it besides Louis, but it's just beyond their ability to grasp exactly what is wrong with Church.
And the Micmac burying ground has changed Louis as well, just like it changed Jud when he buried his pet dog up there as a kid. It plants a seed of insanity there. The burying ground calls to whomever visits there, prompts them to share the dirty secret that is the burying ground.
So what does this mean for the rest of Louis Creed's family?
If I were to reveal that, the rest of the book would be ruined, and I just can't do that.
For once, I will not prompt you guys to read or not to read this book. That is the question . . . yes, I did just do that. Anyway, as I was saying, this book is messed up. No holds barred creepy. It touches on every single sensitive spot that there is. I do not recommend it for the weak of stomach or for the weak of heart.
If you don't want to read this book, I don't blame you. But if you love horror, have at it. This book takes the sanctity and purity of life and dirties it to teach a lesson that life is holy and that to mess with that is to mess with the order of things.
So, as Paul McCartney puts it, "live and let die."
That's it for this post. I'm going to wait a few hours before I pick up Life of Pi again, because it is way too much of a contrast for me to deal with. But that review is up and coming. I'm about 80% of the way through the book according to my Kindle Fire.
Until next time, guys.
Happy reading!!
Rehash
Hey, guys!
If any of you have read my review of Of Beast and Beauty by Stacey Jay, you know that I love new takes on Beauty and the Beast. You probably wouldn't be too surprised to discover that I love rehashes of classic stories, period. Especially Grimm stories.
And this review is for a rehash of the classic story of a girl in a red hood taking a walk through the woods to her grandmother's house, the nasty wolf who gets in her way, and the woodcutter who saves the day in a rather gruesome ending.
Yes, I am talking about Red Riding Hood by Sarah Blakley-Cartwright. This book is actually based on the screenplay by David Leslie Johnson for the major motion film directed by Catherine Hardwicke. You guys may have seen the movie starring Amanda Seyfried.
So, unlike many people, I read the introduction to the book written by Catherine Hardwicke because I am that nerdy. Turns out that work on the movie started before the novel was written. Hardwicke had a writer friend take a look at the screenplay and write a novel based on it so that there could be a novel released before the movie. Just an interesting little factoid.
As I said, this novel is a rehash of the classic story. So, what's the twist?
The big bad wolf is actually . . . a werewolf. Dun dun DUN!
Well, Valerie lives with her family in a small village called Daggorhorn that has always lived in fear of the wolf, so much so that they leave one of their livestock as a sacrifice every full moon. The village has been spared for many years and the villagers are content enough.
But Valerie wants more. She is different from the other girls and wants more than to marry Henry, the blacksmith's son who will love and support her. She loves Peter, a mere woodcutter who wants to run away with her. But her mother wouldn't allow it. The situation can't get much worse.
That is, until Valerie's older sister is killed.
The villagers are in a panic; maybe the animal sacrifices are no longer enough and they'll all be next. The local priest sends for help from a werewolf hunting priest who informs the good people of Daggorhorn that they are beset by a werewolf . . . and that he lives among them.
And the worst part? He's after Valerie next.
Dun dun DUN!!
It's an interesting read and suspenseful. But I must warn you guys: the ending is extremely ambiguous. That was left for the movie. So, if you're thinking about reading the book at all, I would read it before you see the movie. Reading the book after seeing the movie would just result in disappointment.
But still, definitely give it a whirl.
Hope you enjoyed and check again within the next few days for more. Almost done with Pet Sematary and Life of Pi, so those reviews will be up and coming.
Happy reading!!
If any of you have read my review of Of Beast and Beauty by Stacey Jay, you know that I love new takes on Beauty and the Beast. You probably wouldn't be too surprised to discover that I love rehashes of classic stories, period. Especially Grimm stories.
And this review is for a rehash of the classic story of a girl in a red hood taking a walk through the woods to her grandmother's house, the nasty wolf who gets in her way, and the woodcutter who saves the day in a rather gruesome ending.
Yes, I am talking about Red Riding Hood by Sarah Blakley-Cartwright. This book is actually based on the screenplay by David Leslie Johnson for the major motion film directed by Catherine Hardwicke. You guys may have seen the movie starring Amanda Seyfried.
So, unlike many people, I read the introduction to the book written by Catherine Hardwicke because I am that nerdy. Turns out that work on the movie started before the novel was written. Hardwicke had a writer friend take a look at the screenplay and write a novel based on it so that there could be a novel released before the movie. Just an interesting little factoid.
As I said, this novel is a rehash of the classic story. So, what's the twist?
The big bad wolf is actually . . . a werewolf. Dun dun DUN!
Well, Valerie lives with her family in a small village called Daggorhorn that has always lived in fear of the wolf, so much so that they leave one of their livestock as a sacrifice every full moon. The village has been spared for many years and the villagers are content enough.
But Valerie wants more. She is different from the other girls and wants more than to marry Henry, the blacksmith's son who will love and support her. She loves Peter, a mere woodcutter who wants to run away with her. But her mother wouldn't allow it. The situation can't get much worse.
That is, until Valerie's older sister is killed.
The villagers are in a panic; maybe the animal sacrifices are no longer enough and they'll all be next. The local priest sends for help from a werewolf hunting priest who informs the good people of Daggorhorn that they are beset by a werewolf . . . and that he lives among them.
And the worst part? He's after Valerie next.
Dun dun DUN!!
It's an interesting read and suspenseful. But I must warn you guys: the ending is extremely ambiguous. That was left for the movie. So, if you're thinking about reading the book at all, I would read it before you see the movie. Reading the book after seeing the movie would just result in disappointment.
But still, definitely give it a whirl.
Hope you enjoyed and check again within the next few days for more. Almost done with Pet Sematary and Life of Pi, so those reviews will be up and coming.
Happy reading!!
Saturday, July 26, 2014
An Attitude-Changer
Hey, guys!
The party went pretty well and I just got home, but I thought that I should write at least three posts for this week, so here I am. Next week will most likely (hopefully) be better. So, I've had this book in my pile to review forever, and I thought that it was about time I got to it.
The first time I read Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher, I was in middle school. Unlike many of my peers, I was still very naive until my freshman or sophomore year of high school, and even then I was still learning. Anyway, the first time I read this book, it didn't really have the full effect on me.
I can't remember when I read it the second time (I was probably in high school, though) but I realized what important literature it was the second time around.
In Thirteen Reasons Why, Clay gets a package in the mail with seven cassette tapes and a note telling him that he had to listen to all of them in order and to mail the package to the next person on the list when he was finished, or everyone at school would hear him.
When he pops the first tape in a Walkman, he hears the voice of a girl named Hannah. Hannah used to go to the same high school as Clay. Clay used to be interested in Hannah. Hannah had committed suicide a few months ago.
In the first few minutes of the first side of Tape 1, Hannah explained that before the day she planned to take her own life, she had recorded the cassette tapes in order to give thirteen reasons why she killed herself. And the thing is that each reason is a person. Bullying, abuse, and emotional trauma. It's all there on the tapes.
Clay had quite a crush on Hannah, and doesn't remember doing or saying anything to make her angry or upset. So why is he on these tapes?
If each reason is a person, then what did Clay do to influence Hannah's decision?
He is afraid to find out, but he has no choice in the matter if he wants to keep the tapes a dirty little secret belonging to the small circle of reasons.
Clay doesn't know when he will appear in the tapes, but he can't skip ahead. This is Hannah's story after all.
Hannah's story is unexpected, controversial, and raw. And it is a story that every reader should experience. I would recommend this for those coming of age, in either the later years of middle school or high school age, depending on mental maturity.
Despite the fact that many people have different opinions about suicide victims and their choices, this story provides a sobering new look at the controversy from the point of view that we, as a society, rarely hear from: the suicide victim.
The reader will find himself or herself empathizing with the main character to the point where it is forgotten that Hannah is merely a voice on a tape during the course of the story, because her pain is real even though it is over by the time the story begins.
Thirteen Reasons Why may change attitudes about suicide victims being weak or being cowards. I believe that the first step in suicide prevention is changing attitudes and seeing those who are depressed or considering suicide as people in need of help from loved ones and peers.
If any of you guys or a loved one may be showcasing signs of depression or thoughts of suicide, please seek out help and call a suicide hotline. This type of thing should not be happening, but unfortunately it does. But that doesn't mean that we can't reduce the numbers.
Okay, guys, that's it for tonight. I hope you enjoyed this review and be sure to check in next week for more.
Happy reading!!
The party went pretty well and I just got home, but I thought that I should write at least three posts for this week, so here I am. Next week will most likely (hopefully) be better. So, I've had this book in my pile to review forever, and I thought that it was about time I got to it.
The first time I read Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher, I was in middle school. Unlike many of my peers, I was still very naive until my freshman or sophomore year of high school, and even then I was still learning. Anyway, the first time I read this book, it didn't really have the full effect on me.
I can't remember when I read it the second time (I was probably in high school, though) but I realized what important literature it was the second time around.
In Thirteen Reasons Why, Clay gets a package in the mail with seven cassette tapes and a note telling him that he had to listen to all of them in order and to mail the package to the next person on the list when he was finished, or everyone at school would hear him.
When he pops the first tape in a Walkman, he hears the voice of a girl named Hannah. Hannah used to go to the same high school as Clay. Clay used to be interested in Hannah. Hannah had committed suicide a few months ago.
In the first few minutes of the first side of Tape 1, Hannah explained that before the day she planned to take her own life, she had recorded the cassette tapes in order to give thirteen reasons why she killed herself. And the thing is that each reason is a person. Bullying, abuse, and emotional trauma. It's all there on the tapes.
Clay had quite a crush on Hannah, and doesn't remember doing or saying anything to make her angry or upset. So why is he on these tapes?
If each reason is a person, then what did Clay do to influence Hannah's decision?
He is afraid to find out, but he has no choice in the matter if he wants to keep the tapes a dirty little secret belonging to the small circle of reasons.
Clay doesn't know when he will appear in the tapes, but he can't skip ahead. This is Hannah's story after all.
Hannah's story is unexpected, controversial, and raw. And it is a story that every reader should experience. I would recommend this for those coming of age, in either the later years of middle school or high school age, depending on mental maturity.
Despite the fact that many people have different opinions about suicide victims and their choices, this story provides a sobering new look at the controversy from the point of view that we, as a society, rarely hear from: the suicide victim.
The reader will find himself or herself empathizing with the main character to the point where it is forgotten that Hannah is merely a voice on a tape during the course of the story, because her pain is real even though it is over by the time the story begins.
Thirteen Reasons Why may change attitudes about suicide victims being weak or being cowards. I believe that the first step in suicide prevention is changing attitudes and seeing those who are depressed or considering suicide as people in need of help from loved ones and peers.
If any of you guys or a loved one may be showcasing signs of depression or thoughts of suicide, please seek out help and call a suicide hotline. This type of thing should not be happening, but unfortunately it does. But that doesn't mean that we can't reduce the numbers.
Okay, guys, that's it for tonight. I hope you enjoyed this review and be sure to check in next week for more.
Happy reading!!
Friday, July 25, 2014
Never Made the Connection
Hey, guys!!
Sorry that there wasn't a review up yesterday. Still pretty crazy around here, and with my laptop as old as it is, I can't blog on it. Meaning that I have to use my parents computer whenever I'm not busy and whenever my parents aren't using it . . . do you know how difficult that is? Seriously.
Anyway, it's about time I've written a new review, especially since my brother's high school graduation party is tomorrow. So, here we go.
When I was in fourth grade, there was a teacher and a sort of teacher's aide. The teacher's aide would always have a book ready to read out loud to us. For a long while, we listened to her read A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket. Another time, however, she read Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis.
Unfortunately, she never finished reading it to us. I think it was because it was the end of the year and we didn't have enough time to finish reading it. So, a while later I found the same book at a store or a book fair or something and decided that I would get it so that I could finally found out what happened.
I have no idea how long that book sat on my shelf (unread) after that. Then finally, it started to bug me. So, I picked it up and read it, and found it to be an enjoyable read.
And it wasn't until I wrote a review for So B. It by Sarah Weeks and started thinking about a review for this book that I realized how similar they were in plot. You'll see how.
So, Bud, Not Buddy is a story about a ten-year-old motherless boy during the time of the great depression. He's in a home and all he has to his name is a suitcase full of treasures held closed with a bit of twine.
Bud doesn't know who his father is - or if he is even alive. His only clues are the flyers that his mother kept advertising the famous Herman E. Calloway and his band, the Dusky Devastators of the Depression.
So, after being neglected by his latest foster family, Bud decides to run away to find this Herman E. Calloway, the man who may be his long lost father.
With only his suitcase and Bud Caldwell's Rules and Things for Having a Funner Life and Making a Better Liar Out of Yourself he's on the road in search of Herman E. Calloway.
The reason I said that this book is just like So B. It is because both Bud and Heidi travel great distances to try to find the men whom they believe to be their fathers. Anybody else see the connection?
Anyway, it's a good book, especially if you're into stories from different time periods in American history. I would definitely give it a go.
Okay, so tomorrow is my brother's party, so I will be busy pretty much all day. I'm so sorry that there haven't been many reviews lately, guys. I should be back up to speed next week.
Feel free to leave comments if you have anything on your minds . . . book related, I mean. What do I look like? An online shrink? Because I am totally not.
Until next time :)
Happy reading!!
Sorry that there wasn't a review up yesterday. Still pretty crazy around here, and with my laptop as old as it is, I can't blog on it. Meaning that I have to use my parents computer whenever I'm not busy and whenever my parents aren't using it . . . do you know how difficult that is? Seriously.
Anyway, it's about time I've written a new review, especially since my brother's high school graduation party is tomorrow. So, here we go.
When I was in fourth grade, there was a teacher and a sort of teacher's aide. The teacher's aide would always have a book ready to read out loud to us. For a long while, we listened to her read A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket. Another time, however, she read Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis.
Unfortunately, she never finished reading it to us. I think it was because it was the end of the year and we didn't have enough time to finish reading it. So, a while later I found the same book at a store or a book fair or something and decided that I would get it so that I could finally found out what happened.
I have no idea how long that book sat on my shelf (unread) after that. Then finally, it started to bug me. So, I picked it up and read it, and found it to be an enjoyable read.
And it wasn't until I wrote a review for So B. It by Sarah Weeks and started thinking about a review for this book that I realized how similar they were in plot. You'll see how.
So, Bud, Not Buddy is a story about a ten-year-old motherless boy during the time of the great depression. He's in a home and all he has to his name is a suitcase full of treasures held closed with a bit of twine.
Bud doesn't know who his father is - or if he is even alive. His only clues are the flyers that his mother kept advertising the famous Herman E. Calloway and his band, the Dusky Devastators of the Depression.
So, after being neglected by his latest foster family, Bud decides to run away to find this Herman E. Calloway, the man who may be his long lost father.
With only his suitcase and Bud Caldwell's Rules and Things for Having a Funner Life and Making a Better Liar Out of Yourself he's on the road in search of Herman E. Calloway.
The reason I said that this book is just like So B. It is because both Bud and Heidi travel great distances to try to find the men whom they believe to be their fathers. Anybody else see the connection?
Anyway, it's a good book, especially if you're into stories from different time periods in American history. I would definitely give it a go.
Okay, so tomorrow is my brother's party, so I will be busy pretty much all day. I'm so sorry that there haven't been many reviews lately, guys. I should be back up to speed next week.
Feel free to leave comments if you have anything on your minds . . . book related, I mean. What do I look like? An online shrink? Because I am totally not.
Until next time :)
Happy reading!!
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
Favorite Short Stories
Hey, guys!
So, it's been a few days and, while I'm still sad, I am feeling a lot better about my grandfather's death. Sad but part of life.
Anyway, since I'm feeling better, I thought that I should start posting some more reviews for this week, which seems like a very smart idea. So, while I prepare for that, I thought I would start off easy by making a new list. And since I've had an idea for a list for a while and haven't gotten to it yet, I thought I should start with that one.
And in case you missed the title of this post, be aware that this is not another post about Disney movies. And I promise I'm not lying. Really, I'm not. This list is going to be about my favorite short stories. I took a course last semester on short stories, so I've got some pretty good ones.
Just kidding! This list is going to be about Disney . . . gotcha, didn't I?
Seriously though, these are my favorite short stories.
1) "Hills Like White Elephants" by Ernest Hemingway
Many many things I love about this short story. For one thing, it's short. As in it's only a couple of pages long. And it's mostly dialogue. But it says so much - if you're willing to read between the lines. Otherwise, it will make no sense whatsoever. And that's the beauty of it: it forces you to think about it in order to get it.
2) "The Metamorphosis" by Franz Kafka
This story is significantly longer than Hemingway's, but it's still just as good. It's about a man who is transformed into a giant cockroach and his family has to take care of him. This is such a great example of using metaphor within a short story, because in this case, the conflict is the metaphor. His transformation into a cockroach is a metaphor for falling ill. Very powerful metaphor. Not to mention, it's a very enjoyable read with characters who are easy to relate to.
3) "The Yellow Wallpaper" by Charlotte Perkins Gilman
This is a short story about a young woman suffering from depression. Her husband is a doctor and doesn't treat her depression like it's an actual illness. In other words, he doesn't take her seriously. And this is a very interesting story, because you can't be sure how much of it is real and how much of it is the young woman's hallucinations. It's the kind of story that distorts reality, the way the main character's reality is distorted by her depression.
4) "Young Goodman Brown" by Nathaniel Hawthorne
This is one of the first stories I read for The Short Story, and I found it incredibly intriguing. It's by Hawthorne, so if you guys have read The Scarlet Letter, it's basically the same time period. And it's about Goodman Brown taking a walk into the woods one night to join a cult, having some doubts about joining, and discovering that nearly everyone he knew in the town is already a member. Everybody has something to hide; that kind of thing.
5) "The Fall of the House of Usher" by Edgar Allan Poe
Of course I have to include Poe in this list. The father of detective and horror fiction. This story falls in the horror genre. I don't want to give a summary because it is a short story and I can't say anything about Poe without giving the whole creep factor away. Suffice it to say that this story is much like "The Yellow Wallpaper" in that you don't know how much of it is real and how much of it is the ravings of a madman. But like I said: it's Poe.
Well, seems like I'm off to a pretty good start with getting back to blogging. Sorry it's been so long, guys. But you are aware that there has been a death in the family that has been very hard on everyone because my grandfather was so well loved.
Plus, my laptop is no good for blogging anymore, so I have to try to snag the computer whenever my parents aren't using it. And that's hard.
Anyway, I'm past the halfway point with Pet Sematary by Stephen King, so that's up and coming. Be sure to leave comments if there's a specific book out there that you want to read a review about, a list you would like me to write, or if you have feedback about my blog. Don't be shy, now.
Happy reading!!
So, it's been a few days and, while I'm still sad, I am feeling a lot better about my grandfather's death. Sad but part of life.
Anyway, since I'm feeling better, I thought that I should start posting some more reviews for this week, which seems like a very smart idea. So, while I prepare for that, I thought I would start off easy by making a new list. And since I've had an idea for a list for a while and haven't gotten to it yet, I thought I should start with that one.
And in case you missed the title of this post, be aware that this is not another post about Disney movies. And I promise I'm not lying. Really, I'm not. This list is going to be about my favorite short stories. I took a course last semester on short stories, so I've got some pretty good ones.
Just kidding! This list is going to be about Disney . . . gotcha, didn't I?
Seriously though, these are my favorite short stories.
1) "Hills Like White Elephants" by Ernest Hemingway
Many many things I love about this short story. For one thing, it's short. As in it's only a couple of pages long. And it's mostly dialogue. But it says so much - if you're willing to read between the lines. Otherwise, it will make no sense whatsoever. And that's the beauty of it: it forces you to think about it in order to get it.
2) "The Metamorphosis" by Franz Kafka
This story is significantly longer than Hemingway's, but it's still just as good. It's about a man who is transformed into a giant cockroach and his family has to take care of him. This is such a great example of using metaphor within a short story, because in this case, the conflict is the metaphor. His transformation into a cockroach is a metaphor for falling ill. Very powerful metaphor. Not to mention, it's a very enjoyable read with characters who are easy to relate to.
3) "The Yellow Wallpaper" by Charlotte Perkins Gilman
This is a short story about a young woman suffering from depression. Her husband is a doctor and doesn't treat her depression like it's an actual illness. In other words, he doesn't take her seriously. And this is a very interesting story, because you can't be sure how much of it is real and how much of it is the young woman's hallucinations. It's the kind of story that distorts reality, the way the main character's reality is distorted by her depression.
4) "Young Goodman Brown" by Nathaniel Hawthorne
This is one of the first stories I read for The Short Story, and I found it incredibly intriguing. It's by Hawthorne, so if you guys have read The Scarlet Letter, it's basically the same time period. And it's about Goodman Brown taking a walk into the woods one night to join a cult, having some doubts about joining, and discovering that nearly everyone he knew in the town is already a member. Everybody has something to hide; that kind of thing.
5) "The Fall of the House of Usher" by Edgar Allan Poe
Of course I have to include Poe in this list. The father of detective and horror fiction. This story falls in the horror genre. I don't want to give a summary because it is a short story and I can't say anything about Poe without giving the whole creep factor away. Suffice it to say that this story is much like "The Yellow Wallpaper" in that you don't know how much of it is real and how much of it is the ravings of a madman. But like I said: it's Poe.
Well, seems like I'm off to a pretty good start with getting back to blogging. Sorry it's been so long, guys. But you are aware that there has been a death in the family that has been very hard on everyone because my grandfather was so well loved.
Plus, my laptop is no good for blogging anymore, so I have to try to snag the computer whenever my parents aren't using it. And that's hard.
Anyway, I'm past the halfway point with Pet Sematary by Stephen King, so that's up and coming. Be sure to leave comments if there's a specific book out there that you want to read a review about, a list you would like me to write, or if you have feedback about my blog. Don't be shy, now.
Happy reading!!
Friday, July 18, 2014
Update
Hey, guys.
It's with a heavy heart that I inform you that the family member in the hospital, my grandfather, passed away yesterday afternoon. I'm letting you guys know this so that you will be aware of why I probably won't be posting any new reviews for a few days, probably not until sometime next week, if that.
I have known my grandfather all my life and, during the last few years especially, he had been battling several health conditions that have left him very weary. Whenever he was hospitalized before, he always managed to bounce back on his feet, despite the challenges. He was a fighter.
His death is very hard for my family, so while we try to deal with the loss I will be spending some time with family and friends. Don't worry, though; I'll still be reading. Reading is actually a good distraction, though I will admit that King is rather unorthodox material at this time. Still, it helps all the same.
My grandfather was a fighter, and I've always admired that about him. I love you, Vovo. Rest in peace.
Until next time, guys.
Happy reading :)
It's with a heavy heart that I inform you that the family member in the hospital, my grandfather, passed away yesterday afternoon. I'm letting you guys know this so that you will be aware of why I probably won't be posting any new reviews for a few days, probably not until sometime next week, if that.
I have known my grandfather all my life and, during the last few years especially, he had been battling several health conditions that have left him very weary. Whenever he was hospitalized before, he always managed to bounce back on his feet, despite the challenges. He was a fighter.
His death is very hard for my family, so while we try to deal with the loss I will be spending some time with family and friends. Don't worry, though; I'll still be reading. Reading is actually a good distraction, though I will admit that King is rather unorthodox material at this time. Still, it helps all the same.
My grandfather was a fighter, and I've always admired that about him. I love you, Vovo. Rest in peace.
Until next time, guys.
Happy reading :)
Thursday, July 17, 2014
Disney side characters
Hey, guys!!
I'm probably beating this series of lists to death, but what can I say? Write what you love.
I've already written a list of my favorite Disney heroes and heroines, so now I'm going to do a list of my favorite Disney side characters of all time. You guys ready for this?
1) Olaf (Frozen)
In case you haven't figured it out, I love this movie. And Olaf is not only absolutely adorable and hilarious, he also likes warm hugs. Because, who doesn't? Pretty much half of the comic relief from that movie comes from Olaf. Sure he's a bit ignorant and goofy, but that's part of what makes him so lovable. My case has been made. Your witness.
2) Scuttle (The Little Mermaid)
I know that Ariel wasn't on my list for Disney Princesses and Eric wasn't on my list for Disney Princes, but that's just because I have such qualms with their characters now. Back when I was a kid, I absolutely adored this movie. Because what little girl doesn't want to be a mermaid?
Anyway, Scuttle is an awesome character (and by awesome, I mean quirky). He thinks he knows what's what but it turns out that's only true half the time. Annoying in most other characters, but Scuttle manages to pull it off.
3) Mushu (Mulan)
Voiced by Eddie Murphy. A conniving and lying character looking out for only himself. But he does change. And he's funny. Enough said.
4) Stitch (Lilo and Stitch)
A manic alien who destroys everything he touches. But strangely easy to relate to, given that he's just trying to find his place in the world. Guess it's a pretty universal theme (yes, pun intended). Plus, he's "so cute and fluffy!"
5) Captain (Treasure Planet)
Let me just say that I just watched this movie for the first time in years, and I love it even more now. Probably because I didn't understand anything that character's said. Especially anything that came out of the Captain's mouth. But now that I have a fresh perspective on it, the Captain is intelligent and witty, even while putting down Dr. Doppler. Bottom line, she's insulting but funny. I wish my insults were half as funny.
6) Iago (Aladdin)
Okay, not only is the parrot named after my favorite Shakespeare villain of all time, but he's a very interesting character on his own. Half the time he appears to be a look-after-number-one kind of guy, but he submits to Jafar's will at every turn. The only thing keeping me from hating him entirely is his wise-cracking. He may be submissive, but he does it with attitude.
7) Dr. Delbert Doppler (Treasure Planet)
Despite the fact that his profession often causes bouts of self-pity and a general feeling of worthlessness, Doppler has a passion for what he does, and I can't help but admire him for that. He reminds me of Leonard from The Big Bang Theory: he's often under-appreciated for what he does, but he's loves it and he's utterly quirky.
8) Ray (The Princess and the Frog)
I love them lovable characters. Despite his background on the bayou, Ray is actually rather charming in his own unique way. I also love the way he loves his Evangeline unconditionally, despite what others may think or say. I'm not ashamed to admit that I was tearing up when his star appeared in the sky next to Evangeline.
9) Gus-Gus (Cinderella)
Not a huge fan of the premise of the movie, myself. However, I have to love Gus-Gus. He's not too smart, but he's absolutely adorable. That is all there is to it.
10) Maximus (Tangled)
This horse may have a bad habit of holding grudges, but everyone has flaws. I just love his attitude and commitment. Such an interesting combination in an animal.
11) Merryweather (Sleeping Beauty)
I mention attitude a lot. But what can I say? She's doesn't have the typical attitude of a good fairy, and I respect her for that.
As you guys may have noticed, this list was a bit longer than the other Disney lists. That's because there are a lot of general Disney characters and I love a good deal of them.
If anybody would like to post a comment to share his or her favorite Disney character or with feedback about my blog, be my guest. Hope you enjoyed.
Happy reading!!
I'm probably beating this series of lists to death, but what can I say? Write what you love.
I've already written a list of my favorite Disney heroes and heroines, so now I'm going to do a list of my favorite Disney side characters of all time. You guys ready for this?
1) Olaf (Frozen)
In case you haven't figured it out, I love this movie. And Olaf is not only absolutely adorable and hilarious, he also likes warm hugs. Because, who doesn't? Pretty much half of the comic relief from that movie comes from Olaf. Sure he's a bit ignorant and goofy, but that's part of what makes him so lovable. My case has been made. Your witness.
2) Scuttle (The Little Mermaid)
I know that Ariel wasn't on my list for Disney Princesses and Eric wasn't on my list for Disney Princes, but that's just because I have such qualms with their characters now. Back when I was a kid, I absolutely adored this movie. Because what little girl doesn't want to be a mermaid?
Anyway, Scuttle is an awesome character (and by awesome, I mean quirky). He thinks he knows what's what but it turns out that's only true half the time. Annoying in most other characters, but Scuttle manages to pull it off.
3) Mushu (Mulan)
Voiced by Eddie Murphy. A conniving and lying character looking out for only himself. But he does change. And he's funny. Enough said.
4) Stitch (Lilo and Stitch)
A manic alien who destroys everything he touches. But strangely easy to relate to, given that he's just trying to find his place in the world. Guess it's a pretty universal theme (yes, pun intended). Plus, he's "so cute and fluffy!"
5) Captain (Treasure Planet)
Let me just say that I just watched this movie for the first time in years, and I love it even more now. Probably because I didn't understand anything that character's said. Especially anything that came out of the Captain's mouth. But now that I have a fresh perspective on it, the Captain is intelligent and witty, even while putting down Dr. Doppler. Bottom line, she's insulting but funny. I wish my insults were half as funny.
6) Iago (Aladdin)
Okay, not only is the parrot named after my favorite Shakespeare villain of all time, but he's a very interesting character on his own. Half the time he appears to be a look-after-number-one kind of guy, but he submits to Jafar's will at every turn. The only thing keeping me from hating him entirely is his wise-cracking. He may be submissive, but he does it with attitude.
7) Dr. Delbert Doppler (Treasure Planet)
Despite the fact that his profession often causes bouts of self-pity and a general feeling of worthlessness, Doppler has a passion for what he does, and I can't help but admire him for that. He reminds me of Leonard from The Big Bang Theory: he's often under-appreciated for what he does, but he's loves it and he's utterly quirky.
8) Ray (The Princess and the Frog)
I love them lovable characters. Despite his background on the bayou, Ray is actually rather charming in his own unique way. I also love the way he loves his Evangeline unconditionally, despite what others may think or say. I'm not ashamed to admit that I was tearing up when his star appeared in the sky next to Evangeline.
9) Gus-Gus (Cinderella)
Not a huge fan of the premise of the movie, myself. However, I have to love Gus-Gus. He's not too smart, but he's absolutely adorable. That is all there is to it.
10) Maximus (Tangled)
This horse may have a bad habit of holding grudges, but everyone has flaws. I just love his attitude and commitment. Such an interesting combination in an animal.
11) Merryweather (Sleeping Beauty)
I mention attitude a lot. But what can I say? She's doesn't have the typical attitude of a good fairy, and I respect her for that.
As you guys may have noticed, this list was a bit longer than the other Disney lists. That's because there are a lot of general Disney characters and I love a good deal of them.
If anybody would like to post a comment to share his or her favorite Disney character or with feedback about my blog, be my guest. Hope you enjoyed.
Happy reading!!
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
Update
Hey, guys!!
Today's been a pretty backwards day, which is why I don't really have a new post for you guys.'
Just so you know, things are a little crazy because one of my family went to the hospital yesterday and things aren't looking great as of right now.
Tomorrow, I may visit at the hospital. Otherwise, I'll be home, so I'll work on some more reviews and lists for you guys. If things don't start looking up, I hope you guys would understand my going off the grid for a little break so that I can be with my family. Rough days, guys.
Also, I've been reading Pet Sematary by Stephen King. I'm almost a third of the way through the book, so I'm making pretty good progress. I just refuse to read it after dark. Especially since I reached a pretty creepy chapter earlier today. Big no-no.
In addition, I've recently bought four new books on my Kindle, as if I didn't have about seven books already on there that I need to read. Plenty of new material to come.
Especially since some sequels will be coming out this fall. Such as the sequel to Eye of Minds by James Dashner and the sequel to The Raven Boys and The Dream Thief by Maggie Stiefvater. Not to mention the rest of the series that started with Ashes by Ilsa J. Bick. We can't forget about that book . . . especially since it ended on one hell of a cliffhanger.
Anyway, I think you get the point. Check back in tomorrow, guys. :)
Happy reading!!
Today's been a pretty backwards day, which is why I don't really have a new post for you guys.'
Just so you know, things are a little crazy because one of my family went to the hospital yesterday and things aren't looking great as of right now.
Tomorrow, I may visit at the hospital. Otherwise, I'll be home, so I'll work on some more reviews and lists for you guys. If things don't start looking up, I hope you guys would understand my going off the grid for a little break so that I can be with my family. Rough days, guys.
Also, I've been reading Pet Sematary by Stephen King. I'm almost a third of the way through the book, so I'm making pretty good progress. I just refuse to read it after dark. Especially since I reached a pretty creepy chapter earlier today. Big no-no.
In addition, I've recently bought four new books on my Kindle, as if I didn't have about seven books already on there that I need to read. Plenty of new material to come.
Especially since some sequels will be coming out this fall. Such as the sequel to Eye of Minds by James Dashner and the sequel to The Raven Boys and The Dream Thief by Maggie Stiefvater. Not to mention the rest of the series that started with Ashes by Ilsa J. Bick. We can't forget about that book . . . especially since it ended on one hell of a cliffhanger.
Anyway, I think you get the point. Check back in tomorrow, guys. :)
Happy reading!!
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
I did it!!
Hey, guys!
I finally finished The Haunting of Alaizabel Cray by Chris Wooding. It really shouldn't have taken me so long to finish, but I'm starting to notice a pattern here.
If a book is chock full of incredible descriptions of scenery, it takes so much more effort for me to focus. The same happened when I read The Great Gatsby and The Scarlet Letter. And I'm not saying that those types of descriptions are bad. In fact, they're beautiful. I don't know what it is, but it just makes it harder for me to focus. Which is extremely frustrating.
Anyway, you guys have waited this long.
So, based solely on the title, the first question you guys have got to be asking is "Who is Alaizabel Cray, and why is she so important that her name is in the title?" Excellent question, guys. But I'll get to that in a second.
In the Victorian Era, a war known as the Vernichtung has ravaged London and just as the city is starting to get back on its feet, the wych-kin appear. Nobody knows what they are or where they come from or how they came to be. All anybody knows is that the wych-kin are the nightmares that have haunted humans for centuries.
And where there are wych-kin, there are wych-hunters, such as Thaniel and his former mentor, Cathaline. Wych-hunters hold a dangerous occupation and most don't live very long; one mistake could cost a wych-hunter his or her life.
But Thaniel doesn't have to worry about that too much. After all, his father was considered a legend among wych-hunters who taught Thaniel the trade at the age of eight. But being orphaned at such a young age means that Thaniel really only has Cathaline in his life.
That is until he meets the strange Miss Alaizabel Cray while hunting a Cradlejack one night. She is frightened and weak when he finds her. He and Cathaline take her in until she gets better, but once she's better she doesn't remember anything of her life, not even her parents.
Meanwhile, back at the ranch, there have been murders occurring all over London. Who is responsible, you may ask. The notorious Stitch-face? A serial killer who takes the lives of women walking alone at night? Or the rumored high society cult known as The Fraternity? It is a mystery, indeed.
And at the center of it all is none other than Alaizabel Cray. Wych-kin come for her in the night and she has been acting strangely at times. Now, why is that?
I could hint at it, but I believe that it would give too much away. Suffice it to say that unless Thaniel, Cathaline, and Alaizabel can get to the bottom of all of this, the whole world will suffer at the hands of darkness.
This book is action-packed and intriguing. And, although I had some issues focusing on the material, I really did enjoy this book. A clever plot with a fascinating supernatural element to it. I recommend this for middle school ages and up.
This was actually the second book I've read by Chris Wooding. The first time I was exposed to this author's work was Poison, which I think I read in high school. I actually recommended it to my boyfriend and he's reading it now. But if you guys would like to read a review about Poison, I would be happy to write one once I get my book back.
You guys may be interested to know that I have started reading Pet Sematary again by Stephen King and that I am making good progress on that book. I will warn you that it is a long book though. But I'll finish it . . . eventually.
In the meantime, check in for more reviews and lists. Please feel free to comment with book titles or authors that you guys would like me to write reviews for or for general feedback about my blog. Trust me, comments would be very much appreciated.
Happy reading!!
I finally finished The Haunting of Alaizabel Cray by Chris Wooding. It really shouldn't have taken me so long to finish, but I'm starting to notice a pattern here.
If a book is chock full of incredible descriptions of scenery, it takes so much more effort for me to focus. The same happened when I read The Great Gatsby and The Scarlet Letter. And I'm not saying that those types of descriptions are bad. In fact, they're beautiful. I don't know what it is, but it just makes it harder for me to focus. Which is extremely frustrating.
Anyway, you guys have waited this long.
So, based solely on the title, the first question you guys have got to be asking is "Who is Alaizabel Cray, and why is she so important that her name is in the title?" Excellent question, guys. But I'll get to that in a second.
In the Victorian Era, a war known as the Vernichtung has ravaged London and just as the city is starting to get back on its feet, the wych-kin appear. Nobody knows what they are or where they come from or how they came to be. All anybody knows is that the wych-kin are the nightmares that have haunted humans for centuries.
And where there are wych-kin, there are wych-hunters, such as Thaniel and his former mentor, Cathaline. Wych-hunters hold a dangerous occupation and most don't live very long; one mistake could cost a wych-hunter his or her life.
But Thaniel doesn't have to worry about that too much. After all, his father was considered a legend among wych-hunters who taught Thaniel the trade at the age of eight. But being orphaned at such a young age means that Thaniel really only has Cathaline in his life.
That is until he meets the strange Miss Alaizabel Cray while hunting a Cradlejack one night. She is frightened and weak when he finds her. He and Cathaline take her in until she gets better, but once she's better she doesn't remember anything of her life, not even her parents.
Meanwhile, back at the ranch, there have been murders occurring all over London. Who is responsible, you may ask. The notorious Stitch-face? A serial killer who takes the lives of women walking alone at night? Or the rumored high society cult known as The Fraternity? It is a mystery, indeed.
And at the center of it all is none other than Alaizabel Cray. Wych-kin come for her in the night and she has been acting strangely at times. Now, why is that?
I could hint at it, but I believe that it would give too much away. Suffice it to say that unless Thaniel, Cathaline, and Alaizabel can get to the bottom of all of this, the whole world will suffer at the hands of darkness.
This book is action-packed and intriguing. And, although I had some issues focusing on the material, I really did enjoy this book. A clever plot with a fascinating supernatural element to it. I recommend this for middle school ages and up.
This was actually the second book I've read by Chris Wooding. The first time I was exposed to this author's work was Poison, which I think I read in high school. I actually recommended it to my boyfriend and he's reading it now. But if you guys would like to read a review about Poison, I would be happy to write one once I get my book back.
You guys may be interested to know that I have started reading Pet Sematary again by Stephen King and that I am making good progress on that book. I will warn you that it is a long book though. But I'll finish it . . . eventually.
In the meantime, check in for more reviews and lists. Please feel free to comment with book titles or authors that you guys would like me to write reviews for or for general feedback about my blog. Trust me, comments would be very much appreciated.
Happy reading!!
Monday, July 14, 2014
Arguably the most famous King story of all
Hey, guys!
As many of you know, I've already written reviews for a couple of Stephen King stories: Cujo and Misery. The only other King novel I've read thus far (other than a couple of novellas) is The Shining. I believe I may have mentioned that I have put Pet Sematary on hold until after I finish Wooding's The Haunting of Alaizabel Cray.
So, while all of that is in the line-up of books I need to read/finish, how would you guys like to read a review of one of King's most famous horror stories of all time: The Shining.
The main character is named Jack Torrance. He is an aspiring play writer as well as a recovering alcoholic who has had some history with violence while inebriated. That is why he lost his job as a teacher and is applying for a job as caretaker of the Overlook Hotel during the winter. After all, he does have a wife and child to support.
Thanks to his past alcoholism, Jack's marriage to his wife, Wendy, is struggling to keep afloat, especially after how he hurt their child, Danny, while drunk one night.
And what an interesting child is Danny. A five-year-old who loves his father and is extremely sensitive to the moods of those around him, especially his parents. That is because he has something that the Overlook Hotel's head chef, Hallorann, calls the Shining.
Hallorann has the Shining, his mother has the Shining, and Danny has the Shining too. In fact, Danny probably has the most powerful Shining that Hallorann has ever seen in anyone. The Shining in Danny allows him to be extremely sensitive to his surroundings and to be able to talk to Tony, a mysterious kid who shows him visions of future events.
Although the Shining is quite a gift, it is also rather powerful for a five-year-old boy, which worries Hallorann, especially considering the Overlook's history: murders and bad goings-on that resulted in ghosts and evil presences. Evil, I tell you!
And guess what they're after? The writer, Jack Torrance, weakened by his repressed anger and constant longing for a drink. But if he succumbs, what does that mean for the rest of his family?
Why not give the book a go?
And for those of you who have seen the movie but haven't read the book, I would definitely recommend it. Although The Shining is a classic horror movie, the special effects and camera quality aren't exactly up to snuff.
In addition, although I adore Jack Nicholson, some of his facial expressions in the movie (facial expressions that were meant to be unsettling) strike me as rather humorous. I just can't help but laugh sometimes when I watch the movie.
I would love to see a remake though. The remake of Carrie was a great improvement on the last as far as special effects go. I'm sure the same would be true of The Shining.
Anyway, I would recommend the book for any fan of horror. I mean, come on. If someone says horror, the first two names in literature to pop up would be Edgar Allan Poe and Stephen King. I read The Shining when I was in high school, and I really enjoyed it. Appropriate for ages thirteen and up (depending on the mental maturity of individual thirteen-year-olds . . . that's a bit of a gray area). And I'm sure that fans of King would adore this book as well.
Hope you enjoyed the review and that you guys are thinking of reading the book. Check back in again this week for more reviews and lists.
Happy reading!!
As many of you know, I've already written reviews for a couple of Stephen King stories: Cujo and Misery. The only other King novel I've read thus far (other than a couple of novellas) is The Shining. I believe I may have mentioned that I have put Pet Sematary on hold until after I finish Wooding's The Haunting of Alaizabel Cray.
So, while all of that is in the line-up of books I need to read/finish, how would you guys like to read a review of one of King's most famous horror stories of all time: The Shining.
The main character is named Jack Torrance. He is an aspiring play writer as well as a recovering alcoholic who has had some history with violence while inebriated. That is why he lost his job as a teacher and is applying for a job as caretaker of the Overlook Hotel during the winter. After all, he does have a wife and child to support.
Thanks to his past alcoholism, Jack's marriage to his wife, Wendy, is struggling to keep afloat, especially after how he hurt their child, Danny, while drunk one night.
And what an interesting child is Danny. A five-year-old who loves his father and is extremely sensitive to the moods of those around him, especially his parents. That is because he has something that the Overlook Hotel's head chef, Hallorann, calls the Shining.
Hallorann has the Shining, his mother has the Shining, and Danny has the Shining too. In fact, Danny probably has the most powerful Shining that Hallorann has ever seen in anyone. The Shining in Danny allows him to be extremely sensitive to his surroundings and to be able to talk to Tony, a mysterious kid who shows him visions of future events.
Although the Shining is quite a gift, it is also rather powerful for a five-year-old boy, which worries Hallorann, especially considering the Overlook's history: murders and bad goings-on that resulted in ghosts and evil presences. Evil, I tell you!
And guess what they're after? The writer, Jack Torrance, weakened by his repressed anger and constant longing for a drink. But if he succumbs, what does that mean for the rest of his family?
Why not give the book a go?
And for those of you who have seen the movie but haven't read the book, I would definitely recommend it. Although The Shining is a classic horror movie, the special effects and camera quality aren't exactly up to snuff.
In addition, although I adore Jack Nicholson, some of his facial expressions in the movie (facial expressions that were meant to be unsettling) strike me as rather humorous. I just can't help but laugh sometimes when I watch the movie.
I would love to see a remake though. The remake of Carrie was a great improvement on the last as far as special effects go. I'm sure the same would be true of The Shining.
Anyway, I would recommend the book for any fan of horror. I mean, come on. If someone says horror, the first two names in literature to pop up would be Edgar Allan Poe and Stephen King. I read The Shining when I was in high school, and I really enjoyed it. Appropriate for ages thirteen and up (depending on the mental maturity of individual thirteen-year-olds . . . that's a bit of a gray area). And I'm sure that fans of King would adore this book as well.
Hope you enjoyed the review and that you guys are thinking of reading the book. Check back in again this week for more reviews and lists.
Happy reading!!
Saturday, July 12, 2014
Disney Princes
Hey, guys!
If you recall, the last list I made was about my favorite Disney princesses and heroines. Well, how can I make that list without making one about my favorite Disney heroes?
So, here we go. Because let's admit it, girls, we all had a crush on a Disney hero at some point or another.
1) Eugene Fitzherbert (Tangled)
Thief, cheat, liar . . . and pretty damn handsome, if you ask me. It must be the smolder.
Anyway, although Eugene had a sketchy past as Flynn Ryder, he changed because of his love for Rapunzel. And besides, doesn't everyone deserve a second chance? Or should I say a new dream? I think so.
Plus, who didn't want to cry when he sacrificed himself for Rapunzel? Am I right?
2) Kristoff (Frozen)
The song "Fixer Upper" says it all. He's flawed (and smelly) and he knows it and openly admits it. But he's got a heart of gold, otherwise he wouldn't have helped Anna find her sister or get back to Arendelle. Come on, we all knew that it wasn't for his ice business.
Because we all know that Kristoff has got to be one of the most selfless Disney heroes ever. If there was ever an inkling that Anna was in trouble, he was there to help. Also, did anyone else notice that when they were being chased by wolves, he put Anna's life before his own? Because I did.
3) The Beast, a.k.a. Prince Adam (Beauty and the Beast)
Of course the Beast is going to be on this list. Weren't you guys listening when I said that this was my favorite Disney movie of all time as a kid? The best characters are flawed, because no one is perfect. What counts is that they try to conquer their flaws for the people they love.
In the Beast's case, that was by controlling his temper so that he wouldn't upset Belle. I can relate. I was no stranger to temper tantrums when I was a little kid. But my brother started it. (Just kidding. Love you, little bro.) And again, the sacrifice he made for the one he loves. I'm just a sucker for that, as you will see in the other examples.
4) Naveen (The Princess and the Frog)
What a smug jerk in the beginning. But, like Eugene, he changed for his princess. I never was a big fan of the love at first sight stories. Love is gradual. Love is about knowing someone almost as well as you know yourself. But that's just my opinion.
Again, he becomes pretty selfless, willing to work as many jobs as he can to help Tiana get her restaurant. No more partying for him.
5) Hercules (Hercules)
Another selfless hero. Sure, at first he wants to be a hero so that he can become a god and go back home to Olympus, but his priorities change, in much the same way they do as with the other Disney heroes. He falls for Meg (and he's such a sweetheart!) and decides that his place is with her.
Not only did he risk his life to bring her back from Hades's domain, but he gave up his status as a god so that he could stay on Earth with her. Talk about love!
6) Tarzan (Tarzan)
What an interesting character is Tarzan. And talk about quite the conflict. Trying to understand who is more his family: the gorillas who raised him or his own kind. And even though he is quite handy with a spear, he still strikes me as such a gentle spirit.
In this case, it's pretty much Jane and her father who give up civilization for Tarzan, but still, love is love.
7) Aladdin (Aladdin)
Another thief, but kindhearted. Not trying to get rich from his spoils, but instead, just a poor boy trying to survive the streets of Agrabah. And when it gets right down to it, he learns that being himself is the best bet when trying to impress a princess. Girls like honesty. Actually, I'm pretty sure everybody does. For the most part.
Plus, who doesn't like a guy who can make you laugh?
8) Kovu (The Lion King 2: Simba's Pride)
Okay, I know Kovu is an animal, but I still say he counts as a Disney hero. Even if he started out as an antagonist. But that was just bad parenting.
Kovu is another character who changes because he is in love. And I always thought that it was better when someone changes for a loved one without trying. It just happens because it was the love that changed them. Okay, I'm getting a little mushy, but we're at the end of the list now.
Now, be my guest and list off your favorite Disney heroes. I would love to read about your guys' favorites. Check in later for more posts.
Happy reading!!
If you recall, the last list I made was about my favorite Disney princesses and heroines. Well, how can I make that list without making one about my favorite Disney heroes?
So, here we go. Because let's admit it, girls, we all had a crush on a Disney hero at some point or another.
1) Eugene Fitzherbert (Tangled)
Thief, cheat, liar . . . and pretty damn handsome, if you ask me. It must be the smolder.
Anyway, although Eugene had a sketchy past as Flynn Ryder, he changed because of his love for Rapunzel. And besides, doesn't everyone deserve a second chance? Or should I say a new dream? I think so.
Plus, who didn't want to cry when he sacrificed himself for Rapunzel? Am I right?
2) Kristoff (Frozen)
The song "Fixer Upper" says it all. He's flawed (and smelly) and he knows it and openly admits it. But he's got a heart of gold, otherwise he wouldn't have helped Anna find her sister or get back to Arendelle. Come on, we all knew that it wasn't for his ice business.
Because we all know that Kristoff has got to be one of the most selfless Disney heroes ever. If there was ever an inkling that Anna was in trouble, he was there to help. Also, did anyone else notice that when they were being chased by wolves, he put Anna's life before his own? Because I did.
3) The Beast, a.k.a. Prince Adam (Beauty and the Beast)
Of course the Beast is going to be on this list. Weren't you guys listening when I said that this was my favorite Disney movie of all time as a kid? The best characters are flawed, because no one is perfect. What counts is that they try to conquer their flaws for the people they love.
In the Beast's case, that was by controlling his temper so that he wouldn't upset Belle. I can relate. I was no stranger to temper tantrums when I was a little kid. But my brother started it. (Just kidding. Love you, little bro.) And again, the sacrifice he made for the one he loves. I'm just a sucker for that, as you will see in the other examples.
4) Naveen (The Princess and the Frog)
What a smug jerk in the beginning. But, like Eugene, he changed for his princess. I never was a big fan of the love at first sight stories. Love is gradual. Love is about knowing someone almost as well as you know yourself. But that's just my opinion.
Again, he becomes pretty selfless, willing to work as many jobs as he can to help Tiana get her restaurant. No more partying for him.
5) Hercules (Hercules)
Another selfless hero. Sure, at first he wants to be a hero so that he can become a god and go back home to Olympus, but his priorities change, in much the same way they do as with the other Disney heroes. He falls for Meg (and he's such a sweetheart!) and decides that his place is with her.
Not only did he risk his life to bring her back from Hades's domain, but he gave up his status as a god so that he could stay on Earth with her. Talk about love!
6) Tarzan (Tarzan)
What an interesting character is Tarzan. And talk about quite the conflict. Trying to understand who is more his family: the gorillas who raised him or his own kind. And even though he is quite handy with a spear, he still strikes me as such a gentle spirit.
In this case, it's pretty much Jane and her father who give up civilization for Tarzan, but still, love is love.
7) Aladdin (Aladdin)
Another thief, but kindhearted. Not trying to get rich from his spoils, but instead, just a poor boy trying to survive the streets of Agrabah. And when it gets right down to it, he learns that being himself is the best bet when trying to impress a princess. Girls like honesty. Actually, I'm pretty sure everybody does. For the most part.
Plus, who doesn't like a guy who can make you laugh?
8) Kovu (The Lion King 2: Simba's Pride)
Okay, I know Kovu is an animal, but I still say he counts as a Disney hero. Even if he started out as an antagonist. But that was just bad parenting.
Kovu is another character who changes because he is in love. And I always thought that it was better when someone changes for a loved one without trying. It just happens because it was the love that changed them. Okay, I'm getting a little mushy, but we're at the end of the list now.
Now, be my guest and list off your favorite Disney heroes. I would love to read about your guys' favorites. Check in later for more posts.
Happy reading!!
Thursday, July 10, 2014
Not Witches
Hey, guys!
I'm sure that many of you have seen the major motion film Beautiful Creatures last year. But for those of you who haven't - or for those of you who have and just haven't read the book yet - I thought I would write a review for the book, Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl.
Now, before I go on, I must say that the book and the movie are entirely different from each other. For one thing, the conflict in the movie (which is the same conflict in the first book) is resolved in a completely different way, rendering a movie based off of the rest of the series completely moot.
So, unless they use some serious artistic license for future movies, there probably won't be any more movies. But I can't say that for sure, that's just my opinion.
Anyway, as I said, the plot in the book and the plot in the movie are generally the same concept but with completely different resolutions and endings. That being said, my review and summary of the first book in the series may sound altogether different from the movie that was based off of it.
Now, onto the review.
For a few weeks, Ethan Wate has been having some strange dreams about a girl. In the dreams, they are usually facing death and he never sees her face. And he always gets the feeling that he is in love with her, even though he does not know who she is.
It's been a year since his mother died in an accident, and Ethan and the rest of his family are getting by in little old Gatlin. Barely. Gatlin is a small Southern town with the feel of Maycomb County from To Kill a Mockingbird. His father spends all his time in his study, presumably to write a new book. Amma, the woman who practically raised Ethan and his father, makes sure they are fed and that Ethan gets through high school.
Speaking of which, it's the first day of sophomore year for Ethan and his best friend, Link. It's also the first day for the new girl, Lena Duchannes. The girl from Ethan's dreams.
And she's got a dark secret that has to do with the changing number written on her hand - a countdown.
Turns out that Lena comes from a family of Casters. Kind of like witches, but different. And the women in Lena's family are cursed.
Usually a Caster Claims himself or herself on their Sixteenth Moon - meaning the night of their sixteenth birthday. Casters Claim themselves for the Light or the Dark (good or evil). Obviously, it's a big choice.
However, the women who are descended from Genevieve Duchannes (like Lena) do not get the option to choose. On their Sixteenth Moon, it is determined for them whether they will be Claimed for the Light or for the Dark.
And Lena's afraid that she's going to go Dark. After all, she is a Natural. This means that, like her mother who was Claimed for the Dark, she has powers beyond any mortal's imaginings. Beyond even Lena's imagination. And if Lena is Claimed as a Dark Caster, there's no telling what could happen.
Especially in regards to their relationship. True to his dreams, Ethan has fallen in love with Lena Duchannes. But if Lena goes Dark, could Ethan Wate suffer the same fate as his ancestor, Ethan Carter Wate?
To find out what that means, you must read the book. Because I'm not telling. So, there.
I read this book back in high school, and I really enjoyed it. It's a big book to take on, but it's quite a page-turner. I would recommend this book for middle school or high school students. Or anyone interested in supernatural romances, really.
I will say that when I went to see the movie, towards the end my brother and my mom kept asking me what would happen. I could not give them an answer because, again, it is so different from the book.
Actually, after seeing the movie, I thought that the whole series was rather dragged out. So many of the conflicts in the other books were resolved with the alternate solution in the movie so quickly. So, I will leave it up to you guys whether you enjoy the books or the movie more, because I honestly have no idea what to think anymore.
Hope you enjoyed the review, and I hope you come back for more.
Happy reading!!
I'm sure that many of you have seen the major motion film Beautiful Creatures last year. But for those of you who haven't - or for those of you who have and just haven't read the book yet - I thought I would write a review for the book, Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl.
Now, before I go on, I must say that the book and the movie are entirely different from each other. For one thing, the conflict in the movie (which is the same conflict in the first book) is resolved in a completely different way, rendering a movie based off of the rest of the series completely moot.
So, unless they use some serious artistic license for future movies, there probably won't be any more movies. But I can't say that for sure, that's just my opinion.
Anyway, as I said, the plot in the book and the plot in the movie are generally the same concept but with completely different resolutions and endings. That being said, my review and summary of the first book in the series may sound altogether different from the movie that was based off of it.
Now, onto the review.
For a few weeks, Ethan Wate has been having some strange dreams about a girl. In the dreams, they are usually facing death and he never sees her face. And he always gets the feeling that he is in love with her, even though he does not know who she is.
It's been a year since his mother died in an accident, and Ethan and the rest of his family are getting by in little old Gatlin. Barely. Gatlin is a small Southern town with the feel of Maycomb County from To Kill a Mockingbird. His father spends all his time in his study, presumably to write a new book. Amma, the woman who practically raised Ethan and his father, makes sure they are fed and that Ethan gets through high school.
Speaking of which, it's the first day of sophomore year for Ethan and his best friend, Link. It's also the first day for the new girl, Lena Duchannes. The girl from Ethan's dreams.
And she's got a dark secret that has to do with the changing number written on her hand - a countdown.
Turns out that Lena comes from a family of Casters. Kind of like witches, but different. And the women in Lena's family are cursed.
Usually a Caster Claims himself or herself on their Sixteenth Moon - meaning the night of their sixteenth birthday. Casters Claim themselves for the Light or the Dark (good or evil). Obviously, it's a big choice.
However, the women who are descended from Genevieve Duchannes (like Lena) do not get the option to choose. On their Sixteenth Moon, it is determined for them whether they will be Claimed for the Light or for the Dark.
And Lena's afraid that she's going to go Dark. After all, she is a Natural. This means that, like her mother who was Claimed for the Dark, she has powers beyond any mortal's imaginings. Beyond even Lena's imagination. And if Lena is Claimed as a Dark Caster, there's no telling what could happen.
Especially in regards to their relationship. True to his dreams, Ethan has fallen in love with Lena Duchannes. But if Lena goes Dark, could Ethan Wate suffer the same fate as his ancestor, Ethan Carter Wate?
To find out what that means, you must read the book. Because I'm not telling. So, there.
I read this book back in high school, and I really enjoyed it. It's a big book to take on, but it's quite a page-turner. I would recommend this book for middle school or high school students. Or anyone interested in supernatural romances, really.
I will say that when I went to see the movie, towards the end my brother and my mom kept asking me what would happen. I could not give them an answer because, again, it is so different from the book.
Actually, after seeing the movie, I thought that the whole series was rather dragged out. So many of the conflicts in the other books were resolved with the alternate solution in the movie so quickly. So, I will leave it up to you guys whether you enjoy the books or the movie more, because I honestly have no idea what to think anymore.
Hope you enjoyed the review, and I hope you come back for more.
Happy reading!!
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
Mixed Feelings
Hey, guys!
This time around, I'm writing another review for a book I had to read for school, specifically for my freshman English class. It's a long book, and one of the main themes is faith, religion, and control (or lack thereof) over one's destiny.
We're getting deep here, folks. This book that I had to read is called A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving.
The main character is Johnny, a twelve-year-old boy who was conceived out of wedlock. Although his mother loves him dearly and his step-father is a great guy, Johnny does not know who his father is. He does, however, have a best friend in Owen Meany.
Owen Meany is a small boy . . . abnormally small for his age. Not to mention pale. He also has a very high-pitched voice. And, ironically, his father owns a granite quarry. But Owen believes that his small size and unusual voice are to be the instruments of his destiny.
That's what he calls himself: "an instrument of God." And that's not just because he was partly responsible for the death of Johnny's mother, Tabby. He thinks that he (specifically, his death) is meant for a greater purpose: to save lives.
How does Owen Meany know this? Dreams and signs, mostly. But also this scary but important feeling that that is his destiny.
I said that this book is religious. It's not about religion per se, but it asks some pretty important questions about faith.
For example, Owen Meany has such uncontested faith, even though carrying out God's will means his death. Johnny doesn't have faith in God so much as he has faith in Owen Meany, even though Owen Meany hit the foul ball that killed his mother.
This book is filled with paradoxes. Because despite the fact that Owen killed Johnny's mother, they are best friends right through college.
I say "killed" like it was on purpose. I should probably make it clear that Owen did not mean for that to happen. He felt incredibly guilty because he loved Tabby just as much as Johnny did. And Tabby adored Owen Meany in turn.
Anyway, this book pretty much chronicles the lives of the two young boys through school and college and right up to Owen's act of heroism and beyond. The reader also gets glimpses of Johnny as an older man looking back on his experiences. After all, he did say that Owen Meany is the reason that Johnny believes in God.
And for you literature nuts out there, this book is chock full of symbolism. Not only is Owen Meany depicted as a Jesus figure, but Johnny is also depicted as a Joseph figure. Joseph as in the Virgin Mary's husband in the Bible. Armlessness (the lack of arms) is also a theme as it relates to a lack of control over one's situation. We discussed this in length during class.
This blog post is starting to sound like the paper I had to write about this book.
Sorry about that, but once you read a book from an academic point of view, it's hard to really see it any other way unless you reread it.
Anyway, this book was pretty good, but you have to be patient enough to read it. My boyfriend, for example, didn't really have the stomach for this book. It does get a little preachy at times, and that could be a turn-off for people who aren't very religious (like myself). But FYI, I did power through the book.
I will warn you guys, though: it's a long book, and I'm talking six hundred pages. It's actually a pretty good book, but like I said, you have to have the patience to read it.
But if you want to find out what Owen's act of heroism was, who Johnny's father was, and why Owen was the reason Johnny believed in God, then give the book a try. It's not like you're being quizzed about it like I was.
Anyway, that's it for this post. Hope you enjoyed reading about this lovely bit of literature that you might like to add to your library. Check back in for more posts.
Happy reading!!
This time around, I'm writing another review for a book I had to read for school, specifically for my freshman English class. It's a long book, and one of the main themes is faith, religion, and control (or lack thereof) over one's destiny.
We're getting deep here, folks. This book that I had to read is called A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving.
The main character is Johnny, a twelve-year-old boy who was conceived out of wedlock. Although his mother loves him dearly and his step-father is a great guy, Johnny does not know who his father is. He does, however, have a best friend in Owen Meany.
Owen Meany is a small boy . . . abnormally small for his age. Not to mention pale. He also has a very high-pitched voice. And, ironically, his father owns a granite quarry. But Owen believes that his small size and unusual voice are to be the instruments of his destiny.
That's what he calls himself: "an instrument of God." And that's not just because he was partly responsible for the death of Johnny's mother, Tabby. He thinks that he (specifically, his death) is meant for a greater purpose: to save lives.
How does Owen Meany know this? Dreams and signs, mostly. But also this scary but important feeling that that is his destiny.
I said that this book is religious. It's not about religion per se, but it asks some pretty important questions about faith.
For example, Owen Meany has such uncontested faith, even though carrying out God's will means his death. Johnny doesn't have faith in God so much as he has faith in Owen Meany, even though Owen Meany hit the foul ball that killed his mother.
This book is filled with paradoxes. Because despite the fact that Owen killed Johnny's mother, they are best friends right through college.
I say "killed" like it was on purpose. I should probably make it clear that Owen did not mean for that to happen. He felt incredibly guilty because he loved Tabby just as much as Johnny did. And Tabby adored Owen Meany in turn.
Anyway, this book pretty much chronicles the lives of the two young boys through school and college and right up to Owen's act of heroism and beyond. The reader also gets glimpses of Johnny as an older man looking back on his experiences. After all, he did say that Owen Meany is the reason that Johnny believes in God.
And for you literature nuts out there, this book is chock full of symbolism. Not only is Owen Meany depicted as a Jesus figure, but Johnny is also depicted as a Joseph figure. Joseph as in the Virgin Mary's husband in the Bible. Armlessness (the lack of arms) is also a theme as it relates to a lack of control over one's situation. We discussed this in length during class.
This blog post is starting to sound like the paper I had to write about this book.
Sorry about that, but once you read a book from an academic point of view, it's hard to really see it any other way unless you reread it.
Anyway, this book was pretty good, but you have to be patient enough to read it. My boyfriend, for example, didn't really have the stomach for this book. It does get a little preachy at times, and that could be a turn-off for people who aren't very religious (like myself). But FYI, I did power through the book.
I will warn you guys, though: it's a long book, and I'm talking six hundred pages. It's actually a pretty good book, but like I said, you have to have the patience to read it.
But if you want to find out what Owen's act of heroism was, who Johnny's father was, and why Owen was the reason Johnny believed in God, then give the book a try. It's not like you're being quizzed about it like I was.
Anyway, that's it for this post. Hope you enjoyed reading about this lovely bit of literature that you might like to add to your library. Check back in for more posts.
Happy reading!!
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
Disney Princesses
Hey, guys!
Have I ever told you guys that I love Disney movies? If not, then I'm surprised it took this long. Even when new Disney and Disney/Pixar movies come out in theaters, I have to see it. For a while, my mom told me that the movies I wanted to see seemed too young for me.
I think that at this point, she's gotten used to the idea of having a five-year-old in college.
Anyway, anybody who is a fan of Disney movies has to have some favorite characters and some favorite Disney princesses. Including me.
So, I thought I would make a list of all my favorite Disney princesses/heroines.
1) Belle (Beauty and the Beast)
Okay, first of all, Beauty and the Beast was one of my favorite Disney movies of all time when I was a kid. Belle is my all-time favorite because she is so easy for me to relate to. In case my blog isn't a huge hint, I love reading and I have always shared that with Belle.
Belle also isn't fooled by appearances. Sure, I enjoy a little eye candy as much as the next girl, but I really care about getting to know someone and I really try my best not to judge people.
2) Anna (Frozen)
She may be quick to fall in love and marry a guy right on the spot, but hey, we all have flaws. She's also very hyper, a bit scatter-brained and absent-minded, but she loves her family and she looks out for the ones she loves. Like me! I'm also a bit scatter-brained at times. For example, I'm easily distracted by birds and butterflies.
Anyway, Anna is lovable and often bursts out into song. If that doesn't put her on the spot for favorite Disney princess, then I don't know what will. In addition, she and Merida were the only Disney princesses who looked like crap first thing in the morning. Pay attention, fellas, that's what girls really look like after waking up. Sometimes worse.
3) Rapunzel (Tangled)
I can't believe I had to wait till I was sixteen to find a Disney princess who actually looks like me . . . you know, after Rapunzel's hair was cut. But that's not my only reason for loving Rapunzel. She dreams without holding back and she knows how to protect herself, despite being locked up her whole life.
Plus, she has hair that has the power to heal people. How cool is that?
4) Elsa (Frozen)
What can I say? I love the strong female characters. She wasn't very strong in the beginning though. It's hard to imagine having such amazing powers and being so insecure. But it's not her fault; her parents taught her to fear her potential. And after the accident with Anna . . . yeesh.
But Elsa does unlock her potential and expresses her creativity (an ice palace!) and who can't admire her for that? It's a good message to young girls (and boys) out there: don't hide what you're feeling and express yourself.
5) Megara (Hercules)
If any of you have seen Hercules, you'll know why Meg's on the list. A female counterpart with an attitude and fluency in sarcasm. It'd be easier to count those of us who can't relate to that! Not to mention her aversion to men in the beginning. Oh yeah, I could relate to that in high school. But that's another story.
Meg may be reluctant to love, but she loves with a passion when she lets herself. I feel like when a girl is unsure about whether or not to pursue a guy, she'll have a miniature Anna, Ariel, and Cinderella on one shoulder telling her to go for it and a miniature Meg, Merida, and Elsa on the other shoulder cursing out men as a species.
6) Mulan (Mulan)
The only Disney heroine who was a soldier and a cross-dresser! Talk about a woman with commitment and love for her family. She also manages to be just one of the guys and to get a guy in the process. Not to mention, she has quite the personality.
Mulan is actually my boyfriend's favorite Disney heroine. He loves the movie. And I agree. Mulan's also easy to relate to; who doesn't wonder what their purpose in life is?
7) Tiana (The Princess and the Frog)
Another princess who dares to dream. She's also one of the few who actually works hard for her dream. Try to think of another Disney girl who worked two jobs to save up enough money to start her own restaurant. And the ones who were practically slaves (ahem, Snow White and Cinderella) don't count.
There's also a spark of Megara and Belle in Tiana: a little unwilling to trust men but not impressed by looks. Sure, it's easier to fall for a frog when you are also one yourself, but it's the thought that counts.
8) Merida (Brave)
Unlike Ariel, this is one firey red-head doesn't need a man in her life . . . in fact, correct me if I'm wrong, but aren't Merida and Elsa the only Disney heroines who didn't end up with a guy by the end of the movie? Sure Mulan didn't get married at the end of the first movie, but it was definitely implied that they would end up together.
But anyway, I digress. Not only is Merida an independent princess who stands up for herself, but she is killer with a bow and arrow. She's also not afraid to rip a dress for the sake of comfort. Sure, she makes a dumb mistake all because she's mad at her mom, but she accepts the consequences and fixes her mistake.
Okay, that's all I've got. If any of you would like to share your favorite Disney princesses/heroines, be my guest. I would love to read your guys' lists.
Check in tomorrow for a new review and keep checking for a review on The Haunting of Alaizabel Cray by Chris Wooding.
Happy reading!!
Have I ever told you guys that I love Disney movies? If not, then I'm surprised it took this long. Even when new Disney and Disney/Pixar movies come out in theaters, I have to see it. For a while, my mom told me that the movies I wanted to see seemed too young for me.
I think that at this point, she's gotten used to the idea of having a five-year-old in college.
Anyway, anybody who is a fan of Disney movies has to have some favorite characters and some favorite Disney princesses. Including me.
So, I thought I would make a list of all my favorite Disney princesses/heroines.
1) Belle (Beauty and the Beast)
Okay, first of all, Beauty and the Beast was one of my favorite Disney movies of all time when I was a kid. Belle is my all-time favorite because she is so easy for me to relate to. In case my blog isn't a huge hint, I love reading and I have always shared that with Belle.
Belle also isn't fooled by appearances. Sure, I enjoy a little eye candy as much as the next girl, but I really care about getting to know someone and I really try my best not to judge people.
2) Anna (Frozen)
She may be quick to fall in love and marry a guy right on the spot, but hey, we all have flaws. She's also very hyper, a bit scatter-brained and absent-minded, but she loves her family and she looks out for the ones she loves. Like me! I'm also a bit scatter-brained at times. For example, I'm easily distracted by birds and butterflies.
Anyway, Anna is lovable and often bursts out into song. If that doesn't put her on the spot for favorite Disney princess, then I don't know what will. In addition, she and Merida were the only Disney princesses who looked like crap first thing in the morning. Pay attention, fellas, that's what girls really look like after waking up. Sometimes worse.
3) Rapunzel (Tangled)
I can't believe I had to wait till I was sixteen to find a Disney princess who actually looks like me . . . you know, after Rapunzel's hair was cut. But that's not my only reason for loving Rapunzel. She dreams without holding back and she knows how to protect herself, despite being locked up her whole life.
Plus, she has hair that has the power to heal people. How cool is that?
4) Elsa (Frozen)
What can I say? I love the strong female characters. She wasn't very strong in the beginning though. It's hard to imagine having such amazing powers and being so insecure. But it's not her fault; her parents taught her to fear her potential. And after the accident with Anna . . . yeesh.
But Elsa does unlock her potential and expresses her creativity (an ice palace!) and who can't admire her for that? It's a good message to young girls (and boys) out there: don't hide what you're feeling and express yourself.
5) Megara (Hercules)
If any of you have seen Hercules, you'll know why Meg's on the list. A female counterpart with an attitude and fluency in sarcasm. It'd be easier to count those of us who can't relate to that! Not to mention her aversion to men in the beginning. Oh yeah, I could relate to that in high school. But that's another story.
Meg may be reluctant to love, but she loves with a passion when she lets herself. I feel like when a girl is unsure about whether or not to pursue a guy, she'll have a miniature Anna, Ariel, and Cinderella on one shoulder telling her to go for it and a miniature Meg, Merida, and Elsa on the other shoulder cursing out men as a species.
6) Mulan (Mulan)
The only Disney heroine who was a soldier and a cross-dresser! Talk about a woman with commitment and love for her family. She also manages to be just one of the guys and to get a guy in the process. Not to mention, she has quite the personality.
Mulan is actually my boyfriend's favorite Disney heroine. He loves the movie. And I agree. Mulan's also easy to relate to; who doesn't wonder what their purpose in life is?
7) Tiana (The Princess and the Frog)
Another princess who dares to dream. She's also one of the few who actually works hard for her dream. Try to think of another Disney girl who worked two jobs to save up enough money to start her own restaurant. And the ones who were practically slaves (ahem, Snow White and Cinderella) don't count.
There's also a spark of Megara and Belle in Tiana: a little unwilling to trust men but not impressed by looks. Sure, it's easier to fall for a frog when you are also one yourself, but it's the thought that counts.
8) Merida (Brave)
Unlike Ariel, this is one firey red-head doesn't need a man in her life . . . in fact, correct me if I'm wrong, but aren't Merida and Elsa the only Disney heroines who didn't end up with a guy by the end of the movie? Sure Mulan didn't get married at the end of the first movie, but it was definitely implied that they would end up together.
But anyway, I digress. Not only is Merida an independent princess who stands up for herself, but she is killer with a bow and arrow. She's also not afraid to rip a dress for the sake of comfort. Sure, she makes a dumb mistake all because she's mad at her mom, but she accepts the consequences and fixes her mistake.
Okay, that's all I've got. If any of you would like to share your favorite Disney princesses/heroines, be my guest. I would love to read your guys' lists.
Check in tomorrow for a new review and keep checking for a review on The Haunting of Alaizabel Cray by Chris Wooding.
Happy reading!!
Sunday, July 6, 2014
A new kind of ghost
Hey, guys!
So, I just realized what a total brain fart I've been having about my blog. I looked through my settings today and I found out that even though I've been telling you guys to leave comments with feedback about my blog and content, I've limited who can leave comments. I was wondering why no one was commenting. My fault.
As soon as I found that out, I fixed it so that now anyone can comment on my blog. Sorry about that, guys! So now you can comment to your hearts' content. I just ask that you please respect each other and my blog in your comments.
Maybe now I can get some feedback about what books you guys would like to read about, whether or not you enjoy the writing exercises and lists, and about what a good job I'm doing in general.
Oh, and by the way, I know what a stupid mistake it was to ask for comments without realizing that I had restricted who can comment when I started this blog, so let's please leave this out of the comments, shall we?
So, now that that has been dealt with, on to a new review.
Have any of you ever heard of the novel Swoon by Nina Malkin? Anyone? Bueller?
All right, then. Once upon a time, Dice and her cousin, Pen, were getting high when Pen decided to show off her athletic ability by climbing a tree. And down she went. She lived, but ever since then, her behavior has . . . changed. Drastically. Still the same Pen on the surface, but causing a lot more drama.
But it's not her fault, the poor dear.
It turns out that when she took that fall from the tree, the spirit of Sinclair Youngblood Powers (a.k.a. Sin) had entered her earthly vessel. Okay, that sounded a lot weirder than I intended it to, but bottom line, Pen is possessed by a ghost who wants to cause all kinds of trouble for the small Connecticut town.
So, now what? Dice and Pen perform their own little exorcism as per Sin's specific instructions . . . sounds like a great idea, huh? Let's ask the ghost how to free his spirit and let our Pen go.
Well, as per Sin's instructions, rather than freeing his spirit, Dice and Pen have just given him a flesh and blood body to walk around in and raise hell with.
Oh, yeah. And guess who has fallen head over heels in love with the dead man walking? Oh, Dice. The heart wants what the heart wants, I suppose.
So now, Dice and Pen have to figure out why Sin tricked them, why he wants revenge on their town, and what happened to make him so angry. And whether or not he's just using Dice to his own end or if he has feelings for her, too. But that's just a bonus question.
And if you would like answers to these questions, you will have to read this book for yourself. It's dark and sexy, so I would recommend it for a mature audience. Possibly upper middle school or high school level due to content.
Trust me though, I read it when I was in middle school, and I just wasn't mature enough for it. When I read it again during my junior year of high school, I was a lot more mentally prepared for it. Just saying.
Seriously, though, it's a good book. My only complaint is that the heroine is a little too lovesick for my taste. But I will give her this: she doesn't let that get in her way when it comes to saving her cousin, her friends, and her town.
Hope you enjoyed this review, and hope I can now look forward to reading some comments. Like I said, my fault.
Check in again this week for more reviews and lists and possibly a writing exercise or two.
Happy reading!
So, I just realized what a total brain fart I've been having about my blog. I looked through my settings today and I found out that even though I've been telling you guys to leave comments with feedback about my blog and content, I've limited who can leave comments. I was wondering why no one was commenting. My fault.
As soon as I found that out, I fixed it so that now anyone can comment on my blog. Sorry about that, guys! So now you can comment to your hearts' content. I just ask that you please respect each other and my blog in your comments.
Maybe now I can get some feedback about what books you guys would like to read about, whether or not you enjoy the writing exercises and lists, and about what a good job I'm doing in general.
Oh, and by the way, I know what a stupid mistake it was to ask for comments without realizing that I had restricted who can comment when I started this blog, so let's please leave this out of the comments, shall we?
So, now that that has been dealt with, on to a new review.
Have any of you ever heard of the novel Swoon by Nina Malkin? Anyone? Bueller?
All right, then. Once upon a time, Dice and her cousin, Pen, were getting high when Pen decided to show off her athletic ability by climbing a tree. And down she went. She lived, but ever since then, her behavior has . . . changed. Drastically. Still the same Pen on the surface, but causing a lot more drama.
But it's not her fault, the poor dear.
It turns out that when she took that fall from the tree, the spirit of Sinclair Youngblood Powers (a.k.a. Sin) had entered her earthly vessel. Okay, that sounded a lot weirder than I intended it to, but bottom line, Pen is possessed by a ghost who wants to cause all kinds of trouble for the small Connecticut town.
So, now what? Dice and Pen perform their own little exorcism as per Sin's specific instructions . . . sounds like a great idea, huh? Let's ask the ghost how to free his spirit and let our Pen go.
Well, as per Sin's instructions, rather than freeing his spirit, Dice and Pen have just given him a flesh and blood body to walk around in and raise hell with.
Oh, yeah. And guess who has fallen head over heels in love with the dead man walking? Oh, Dice. The heart wants what the heart wants, I suppose.
So now, Dice and Pen have to figure out why Sin tricked them, why he wants revenge on their town, and what happened to make him so angry. And whether or not he's just using Dice to his own end or if he has feelings for her, too. But that's just a bonus question.
And if you would like answers to these questions, you will have to read this book for yourself. It's dark and sexy, so I would recommend it for a mature audience. Possibly upper middle school or high school level due to content.
Trust me though, I read it when I was in middle school, and I just wasn't mature enough for it. When I read it again during my junior year of high school, I was a lot more mentally prepared for it. Just saying.
Seriously, though, it's a good book. My only complaint is that the heroine is a little too lovesick for my taste. But I will give her this: she doesn't let that get in her way when it comes to saving her cousin, her friends, and her town.
Hope you enjoyed this review, and hope I can now look forward to reading some comments. Like I said, my fault.
Check in again this week for more reviews and lists and possibly a writing exercise or two.
Happy reading!
Saturday, July 5, 2014
Apocalypse
Hey, guys!
Lately, I've been reading The Haunting of Alaizabel Cray by Chris Wooding, and I've already read the first part. So I'm making progress on that. And (hopefully) I'll have more time to read and write reviews since I don't work again until August. So be sure to check in regularly for more posts.
For now, I thought I would review a book I read back in middle school or high school. I recommended it to one of my aunts and she just kept asking for the next book, since it's part of a trilogy. I am referring to Life as We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer.
The story is told in the form of journal entries from the perspective of a middle child (I can't remember if her name is ever mentioned) who lives with her mother and her two brothers. Her father moved away, remarried, and his new wife is expecting.
And all they've been hearing about on the news is how an asteroid is going to hit the moon. On the night that it's supposed to happen, everyone makes plans to have parties and get-togethers so that they can watch the sky.
They just don't expect the asteroid to knock the moon closer to Earth's orbit.
It may not sound alarming, but its effects are catastrophic. Volcanic eruptions, floods along the coasts, earthquakes, and extreme weather. Once all hell breaks loose, people go crazy raiding the grocery store and crowding the gas station to get as many supplies as they can. Due to the natural disasters and outbreaks of West Nile virus, it'd be easier just to count the living.
And for the living, life has changed drastically. The power flickers on for a couple of hours and then out for the rest of the day. As time goes on, they get the power back less and less frequently. Food has to be rationed: two meals a day with smaller portions. The only sources of entertainment are listening to the news on the radio, reading books, or making up their own games.
Not to mention the strain this has put on the main character's relationships with her friends and family. She's needed around the house a lot more often so she can't hang out with her friends as often. Not that her friends are much fun anymore (or that they were any fun to start with).
While her mother desperately tries to cling to the life they had before, the main character cannot help but feel that her mother plays favorites with her children (and this was even before the moon catastrophe). And guess what: the main character sure doesn't feel like a favorite.
The whole world has been affected by the moon, but so has each individual family. Families who have lost some of their members, families who no longer exist, and families who are struggling to survive.
This is a poignant series that shows us how the living suffer when the lives they have known have been yanked out from under them. The sequel to the first book tells the story of an orphaned teenager who struggles to take care of his two younger sisters during this catastrophe after the death of their parents. The third and final book is about these two broken families meeting and struggling to survive and take care of each other.
I would definitely recommend it to all of you, as I have to my aunt. Like I said, after she read the first book, she kept asking for the sequels. So, although this book is geared towards a middle school or high school audience, it can be enjoyed by all ages. Especially for those who love post-apocalyptic novels.
So go ahead and give it a shot.
Hope you guys enjoyed this review. Check back in tomorrow or the day after for another review/list. And like I said, a review for The Haunting of Alaizabel Cray by Chris Wooding is up and coming.
Happy reading!!
Lately, I've been reading The Haunting of Alaizabel Cray by Chris Wooding, and I've already read the first part. So I'm making progress on that. And (hopefully) I'll have more time to read and write reviews since I don't work again until August. So be sure to check in regularly for more posts.
For now, I thought I would review a book I read back in middle school or high school. I recommended it to one of my aunts and she just kept asking for the next book, since it's part of a trilogy. I am referring to Life as We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer.
The story is told in the form of journal entries from the perspective of a middle child (I can't remember if her name is ever mentioned) who lives with her mother and her two brothers. Her father moved away, remarried, and his new wife is expecting.
And all they've been hearing about on the news is how an asteroid is going to hit the moon. On the night that it's supposed to happen, everyone makes plans to have parties and get-togethers so that they can watch the sky.
They just don't expect the asteroid to knock the moon closer to Earth's orbit.
It may not sound alarming, but its effects are catastrophic. Volcanic eruptions, floods along the coasts, earthquakes, and extreme weather. Once all hell breaks loose, people go crazy raiding the grocery store and crowding the gas station to get as many supplies as they can. Due to the natural disasters and outbreaks of West Nile virus, it'd be easier just to count the living.
And for the living, life has changed drastically. The power flickers on for a couple of hours and then out for the rest of the day. As time goes on, they get the power back less and less frequently. Food has to be rationed: two meals a day with smaller portions. The only sources of entertainment are listening to the news on the radio, reading books, or making up their own games.
Not to mention the strain this has put on the main character's relationships with her friends and family. She's needed around the house a lot more often so she can't hang out with her friends as often. Not that her friends are much fun anymore (or that they were any fun to start with).
While her mother desperately tries to cling to the life they had before, the main character cannot help but feel that her mother plays favorites with her children (and this was even before the moon catastrophe). And guess what: the main character sure doesn't feel like a favorite.
The whole world has been affected by the moon, but so has each individual family. Families who have lost some of their members, families who no longer exist, and families who are struggling to survive.
This is a poignant series that shows us how the living suffer when the lives they have known have been yanked out from under them. The sequel to the first book tells the story of an orphaned teenager who struggles to take care of his two younger sisters during this catastrophe after the death of their parents. The third and final book is about these two broken families meeting and struggling to survive and take care of each other.
I would definitely recommend it to all of you, as I have to my aunt. Like I said, after she read the first book, she kept asking for the sequels. So, although this book is geared towards a middle school or high school audience, it can be enjoyed by all ages. Especially for those who love post-apocalyptic novels.
So go ahead and give it a shot.
Hope you guys enjoyed this review. Check back in tomorrow or the day after for another review/list. And like I said, a review for The Haunting of Alaizabel Cray by Chris Wooding is up and coming.
Happy reading!!
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
More about depression
Hey, guys!
If you remember one of my earlier posts, I wrote a review for The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath, which is a story about a woman suffering from depression. Although Esther Greenwood wasn't wealthy in comparison to her friends, she is probably substantially wealthier than the woman in this next book.
Willow Weep for Me: A Black Woman's Journey Through Depression by Meri Nana-Ama Danquah is a memoir about a black woman suffering from depression . . . sorry, you probably could have guessed that from the title.
Anyway, I read it for my women and gender studies class last fall for our unit on women and mental illnesses. And unlike The Bell Jar, this book is a memoir, meaning that it is nonfiction and based on true events.
It is about the author, a black writer who is a single mom, and her struggles with depression and poverty. Not only does she have trouble getting up in the morning and procrastinates when it comes to keeping a job or putting pen to paper, but she also doesn't want to admit to anyone - or herself - that she is suffering from depression.
After all, what does our society teach us about depression? That it means there's something wrong with depression's sufferers. That they are weak. That they should be able to deal with their problems. That it is shameful to see a therapist or psychiatrist. That they should just suck it up.
Well, I don't think I have to tell anyone that society is wrong about this (and a lot of other topics) and that we need to start changing our attitudes.
And that's just what this memoir does.
By allowing us a window to her suffering and struggles, the author convinces her readers to question what they know about depression and poverty and those who suffer as a result.
I do not suffer from depression so I have no idea what it's like. When I read this book, however, I was given a glimpse of the author's everyday life and into her past. Even though depression is an imbalance of chemicals in the brain, it can also be triggered by traumatic events. That's why the author has had to go through therapy to talk it out.
This was the first book I read about depression, and it was a real eye-opener. I would recommend it to anyone, especially for those suffering from depression or other mental illnesses, women, and just everybody. Everybody should read this book. It's a quick read because it just keeps you reading. It's interesting and well-written.
If I'm being honest, I actually liked it better than The Bell Jar. Sorry, Sylvia Plath, but Meri Nana-Ama Danquah has such a compelling writing style. I swear it's not because the events were true in WWfM and not in TBJ. I promise I'm not picky like that.
Anyway, hope you enjoyed this review. More to come.
Happy reading!!
If you remember one of my earlier posts, I wrote a review for The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath, which is a story about a woman suffering from depression. Although Esther Greenwood wasn't wealthy in comparison to her friends, she is probably substantially wealthier than the woman in this next book.
Willow Weep for Me: A Black Woman's Journey Through Depression by Meri Nana-Ama Danquah is a memoir about a black woman suffering from depression . . . sorry, you probably could have guessed that from the title.
Anyway, I read it for my women and gender studies class last fall for our unit on women and mental illnesses. And unlike The Bell Jar, this book is a memoir, meaning that it is nonfiction and based on true events.
It is about the author, a black writer who is a single mom, and her struggles with depression and poverty. Not only does she have trouble getting up in the morning and procrastinates when it comes to keeping a job or putting pen to paper, but she also doesn't want to admit to anyone - or herself - that she is suffering from depression.
After all, what does our society teach us about depression? That it means there's something wrong with depression's sufferers. That they are weak. That they should be able to deal with their problems. That it is shameful to see a therapist or psychiatrist. That they should just suck it up.
Well, I don't think I have to tell anyone that society is wrong about this (and a lot of other topics) and that we need to start changing our attitudes.
And that's just what this memoir does.
By allowing us a window to her suffering and struggles, the author convinces her readers to question what they know about depression and poverty and those who suffer as a result.
I do not suffer from depression so I have no idea what it's like. When I read this book, however, I was given a glimpse of the author's everyday life and into her past. Even though depression is an imbalance of chemicals in the brain, it can also be triggered by traumatic events. That's why the author has had to go through therapy to talk it out.
This was the first book I read about depression, and it was a real eye-opener. I would recommend it to anyone, especially for those suffering from depression or other mental illnesses, women, and just everybody. Everybody should read this book. It's a quick read because it just keeps you reading. It's interesting and well-written.
If I'm being honest, I actually liked it better than The Bell Jar. Sorry, Sylvia Plath, but Meri Nana-Ama Danquah has such a compelling writing style. I swear it's not because the events were true in WWfM and not in TBJ. I promise I'm not picky like that.
Anyway, hope you enjoyed this review. More to come.
Happy reading!!
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Tattoos
Hey, guys!
Another one of my lists today. And since I will be getting a tattoo soon, I thought it would be cool to make a list of the tattoos I would like to get, even though I'm only getting one. But what's the harm in listing my favorites? :)
The way this list is going to go is I will list the tattoos in increasing order of favor, meaning that the first one I list would be the last one I want to get, and the last one listed will be the one I plan on getting.
So here we go:
3) A bird.
Honestly, even though a tattoo of a bird would be really cool, it's just so overdone. But if I did decide to get a bird tattoo, it would be a small silhouette of a bird. But hummingbirds are cool too.
2) The infinity symbol.
This tattoo was a runner-up for the one I was planning to get. Alas, it didn't make the cut. But there's so much you could do with a tattoo like this: two hearts, quotes, a name inside. So many options.
I could have had "I love you to the moon and back" written along the lines. I could have had a quote from The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky (don't worry, I'll write a review for that). But anyway, I decided not to get that tattoo.
And the winner is (drum roll, please) . . .
1) A small blue rose.
I don't know if this tattoo is as overdone as a bird tattoo, but it fits for me and I like it. Because when you think about it, the rose is a perfect symbol of life: sweet like the scent of a rose, but also painful like a thorn. And since my ink will be a memorial tattoo, it works perfectly.
Why blue? First of all, it's a memorial for a guy. Second of all, blue is my favorite color.
I know that this was a short list, but I'm pretty picky when thinking about tattoos. Bottom line, I couldn't think of five. I really could only think of three.
Hope you enjoyed the list anyway. If any of you have some ink that you would like to share about or if you have your own list of tattoos you would get and want to share it, post your list in the comments. I would love to read it.
Until next time, guys.
Happy reading!!
Another one of my lists today. And since I will be getting a tattoo soon, I thought it would be cool to make a list of the tattoos I would like to get, even though I'm only getting one. But what's the harm in listing my favorites? :)
The way this list is going to go is I will list the tattoos in increasing order of favor, meaning that the first one I list would be the last one I want to get, and the last one listed will be the one I plan on getting.
So here we go:
3) A bird.
Honestly, even though a tattoo of a bird would be really cool, it's just so overdone. But if I did decide to get a bird tattoo, it would be a small silhouette of a bird. But hummingbirds are cool too.
2) The infinity symbol.
This tattoo was a runner-up for the one I was planning to get. Alas, it didn't make the cut. But there's so much you could do with a tattoo like this: two hearts, quotes, a name inside. So many options.
I could have had "I love you to the moon and back" written along the lines. I could have had a quote from The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky (don't worry, I'll write a review for that). But anyway, I decided not to get that tattoo.
And the winner is (drum roll, please) . . .
1) A small blue rose.
I don't know if this tattoo is as overdone as a bird tattoo, but it fits for me and I like it. Because when you think about it, the rose is a perfect symbol of life: sweet like the scent of a rose, but also painful like a thorn. And since my ink will be a memorial tattoo, it works perfectly.
Why blue? First of all, it's a memorial for a guy. Second of all, blue is my favorite color.
I know that this was a short list, but I'm pretty picky when thinking about tattoos. Bottom line, I couldn't think of five. I really could only think of three.
Hope you enjoyed the list anyway. If any of you have some ink that you would like to share about or if you have your own list of tattoos you would get and want to share it, post your list in the comments. I would love to read it.
Until next time, guys.
Happy reading!!
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