tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82365455966773622452016-06-03T04:20:16.895-07:00Bookworm ReadersBookwormnoreply@blogger.comBlogger715125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-75654950476790129762011-07-14T23:03:00.001-07:002011-09-04T17:51:59.496-07:00Haunting Violet<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I_m2r8Sal-o/TmQdKFSbAiI/AAAAAAAADXg/NbMlgg_aa-c/s1600/haunting-violet1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 212px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I_m2r8Sal-o/TmQdKFSbAiI/AAAAAAAADXg/NbMlgg_aa-c/s320/haunting-violet1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648671891684786722" /></a>
<br /><b>Author: </b>Alyxandra Harvey<div><b>Pages: </b>344, </div><div><b>Published: </b>June 2011, Walker Books for Young Readers</div><div><b>Genre: </b>Paranormal/Historical fiction/Mystery</div><div><b>Cover Score: </b>A</div><div><b>Overall Grade: </b></div><div><b>
<br /></b></div><div><b> </b>As the daughter of a scam-artist "medium", Violet Willoughby naturally doesn't believe in ghosts. But when she is forced to accompany her mother to the wealthy Lord Jasper's country estate to conduct seances, she is forced to reconsider her views on the spiritualist world. There, Violet encounters a frightening vision she can't ignore: the ghost of a young girl, seeking justice from beyond. Thrust into the center of an unsolved murder admidst the highest echelon of Victorian society, Violet must discover the mystery behind this girl's violent death before her twin sister suffers the same fate. The only person Violet can trust with her secret is her mother's assistant Colin...but will she be able to accept her new talent and prevent another murder without risking her own chances for a future with the one she truly loves?</div><div>
<br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><b>My thoughts: </b>I had a tough time getting into the first few chapters of <i>Haunting Violet, </i>but once I had reached the tenth page or so, this haunting, beautifully written, fast-paced, and easy to understand romance/Victorian mystery/paranormal delight flew by. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>I fell in love with Ms. Harvey's <i>Drake Chronicles, </i>so I was thrilled when I heard that she was writing a new book that went in a different direction. All in all, I was pleased with <i>Haunting Violet--</i>equal parts high-class Victorian-era glamour, swoon-worthy romance, and murder mystery, one thing made itself very clear throughout the novel: Ms. Harvey did her research! Each detail that made the book so lifelike and clear was perfectly on-key with the time period: the clothes, the mannerisms, the dialogue, the descriptions of the country manor and gardens. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Although the plot was pretty much that of your average paranormal novel, these details and the Victorian English setting took the book to another level. The plot moved quickly and fluidly, and I loved the realistic relationship between Colin and Violet (you could just feel the social tension), the mystery and glamour of the seances, the strained relationship between Violet and her fraudulent mother, and the chilling murder that Violet had to solve before time ran out.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Interesting, unique, and beautifully, realistically written, <i>Haunting Violet </i>will please both avid paranormal readers and fans of historical fiction.</div><div>
<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Must-Read!<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><b>Check it Out! </b> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Don't Bother</div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-84561063066851540792011-07-03T10:38:00.000-07:002011-07-10T16:00:13.705-07:00Monthly Mailbox: June<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">June was a pretty quiet month for actual blogging (ahem, school finals and vacation/blogging hiatus). However, my mailbox was full when I got home from a trip to Spain!</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Just for fun:</b></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X_WE0mZlG60/ThouJAASupI/AAAAAAAADXQ/QimW5BEmZaU/s320/IMG_0178.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627861416507783826" /></div></div><div><ul><li><i>The Lovely Shoes </i>by Susan Shreve</li><li><i>Never Sit Down in a Hoopskirt (And Other Things I Learned in Southern Belle Hell) </i>by Crickett Rumley</li><li><i>The Magnolia League </i>by Katie Crouch</li><li><i>Haunting Violet </i>(for a Bloomsbury book tour) by Alyxandra Harvey (thank you to Kate Lied)</li><li><i>To Catch a Prince </i>by Gillian McKnight</li><li><i>Sirenz </i>by Charlotte Bennardo and Natalie Zaman</li></ul><div>When I came home from Spain, I found this box of books waiting for me from Random House!:</div></div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0tGUBaPwvrc/ThotmgoUMpI/AAAAAAAADXI/wqvVrLHOn5M/s320/IMG_0179.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627860823970165394" /></div><div><ul><li><i>Sons of Liberty: Death and Taxes </i>by Alexander &amp; Joseph Lagos</li><li><i>Amen, L.A. </i>by Cherie Bennett &amp; Jeff Gottesfeld</li><li><i>Texas Gothic </i>by Rosemary Clement-Moore</li><li><i>Starstruck </i>by Cyn Balog</li><li><i>The Other Countess </i>by Eve Edwards</li><li><i>The Summer I Learned to Fly </i>by Dana Reinhardt</li><li><i>Bad Taste in Boys </i>by Carrie Harris</li><li><i>Wildcat Fireflies </i>by Amber Kizer</li><li><i>Sass &amp; Serendipity </i>by Jennifer Ziegler</li></ul><div>These are going to be so much fun to read, I've got a lot of reviewing ahead of me! :) </div></div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-28462120581036590892011-07-01T10:14:00.000-07:002011-07-01T10:59:40.873-07:00Save the Date<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vNve8RzJcI0/Tg4LAv0JTJI/AAAAAAAADWw/9CyHhyAhSZs/s1600/clip_image001_thumb_15.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 198px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vNve8RzJcI0/Tg4LAv0JTJI/AAAAAAAADWw/9CyHhyAhSZs/s320/clip_image001_thumb_15.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624445092095413394" /></a><br /><b>Author: </b>Tamara Summers<div><b>Pages: </b>314</div><div><b>Published: </b>HarperTeen, 2008</div><div><b>Genre: </b>Romance/Comedy</div><div><b>Cover Score:</b> D</div><div><b>Overall Grade:</b> A</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>17 year old Jakarta (aka Jack) is sick of being a bridesmaid. With two out of five older sisters already married, she's had her fair share of Bridezilla catfights, lacy gowns, pre-nuptial stress, flowery wedding showers, and drama. Not to mention her "wedding curse"--every time she brings a boyfriend to a wedding, it ends the relationship and disaster ensues. However, two of her older sisters are planning summer weddings, which means that Jack is back to making place settings and sampling cake flavors. However, the drama of the weddings might be bearable, what with the company of the wedding planner's attractive son, Leo...Will he be able to break her curse?</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><b>My thoughts: </b>I took this book on vacation with me, and was expecting a light, breezy beach read. However, <i>Save the Date </i>blew past my expectations. Don't let the cheesy book cover fool you: <i>Save the Date </i>is a hilarious, honest, and quick summertime read that is not all whirlwind romance and fluff.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>The best thing about this novel, to me, was Jack's narration. She was frank and funny, and completely unlike the stereotypical protagonist of a romance novel. She was sarcastic and often ridiculed her sister's following of cheesy traditions, much to their disapproval. I loved the relationship between the sisters: the drama with flower-child Victoria and crazy, artistic Paris planning their own, very different weddings added comic relief. I often found myself laughing out loud at their antics! I also liked the romance between Jack and Leo, as it didn't consume the whole storyline. The book was also about family and sisterhood, not just romance.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>As well, the "wedding curse" was a unique addition to the storyline. It was interesting to see Jack trying to push aside her feelings for Leo in order to save her sister's weddings. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Overall, if you're looking for a funny, light, and well-written book that you'll get sucked in to, definitely check out <i>Save the Date</i>. Will the weddings be disastrous? Or is the Wedding Curse over? </div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-56139442928841514742011-06-07T18:20:00.001-07:002011-06-10T10:06:39.106-07:00What Would Audrey Do?<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b0LMTQiZfBI/Te7OrwJwl8I/AAAAAAAADWQ/nnjwLEd96Ho/s1600/what-would-audrey-do-profile.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 218px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b0LMTQiZfBI/Te7OrwJwl8I/AAAAAAAADWQ/nnjwLEd96Ho/s320/what-would-audrey-do-profile.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615653036433119170" /></a><br /><b><div>Title: <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">What Would Audrey Do? Timeless Lessons for Living with Grace and Style</span></div>Author: </b>Pamela Keogh<div><b>Pages: </b>253</div><div><b>Published: </b>Gotham Books, 2008</div><div><b>Genre: </b>How-to/Etiquette/Biography</div><div><b>Cover Score: </b>A</div><div><b>Overall Grade: </b>B+</div><div><br /></div><div> Audrey Hepburn was more than a movie star--she was mother, humanitarian, Holocaust survivor, and the epitome of class, grace, and style. Whether in fashion, relationships, her work on the screen, or UNICEF, there is no one more worthy of imitation. <i>What Would Audrey Do? </i>presents readers with the necessary tips and mannerisms needed to become a woman of grace and style, just like Audrey herself.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><b>My thoughts: </b></div><div><div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre; "> </span><i>What Would Audrey Do? </i>is more than an etiquette book based off of the mannerisms of an iconic, timeless cinema star. It is chock-full of interesting facts about Audrey herself, a style guide, and a biographical account that explores the most private aspects of the star's life.</div></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre; "> </span>The book is carefully sectioned into chapters that dole out advice in a graceful, endearing manner that Audrey herself would be proud of: "Audrey as a Movie Star", "Romance Central", "Zen Audrey", "Home Studies", "On the Road", "'A Very Stylish Girl...'", "Heartbreak and Solace", "Modern Times", "St. Audrey", and "Legend".</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre; "> </span><i>What Would Audrey Do? </i>is a book that you want to snuggle up with on a rainy day, a book that you want to drink tea and eat bonbons with while reading it in a rose garden. It reads quickly, and not like an etiquette book at all, which most often simply lay out rules in a commanding manner.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre; "> </span>Ms. Keogh delicately displays the "dos and donts" of a lady in an old-fashioned and quirky manner, while supplementing her facts with tidbits and Audrey history, stories that are both amusing, hilarious, heartbreaking, and relatable. This guide to living life with grace and character is a delightful and charming presentation of Audrey's life, as well. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Ms. Keogh's admiring and spunky account of this iconic star's life verifies that Audrey goes beyond what we believe to be a "celebrity". A true role model, <i>What Would Audrey Do? </i>justifies how much of a role model Ms. Hepburn truly was--and still is.</div></div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-67242663869776556022011-06-06T22:17:00.000-07:002011-06-09T21:52:43.796-07:00The Sartorialist<img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aobKOVoHaeo/Te7LEXG5b7I/AAAAAAAADV4/HV3d5LvfGRM/s320/the_sartorialist_book.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615649061160447922" /><br /><br /><b>Author: </b>Scott Schuman<div><b>Pages: </b>507</div><div><b>Published: </b>Penguin, 2009</div><div><b>Genre: </b>Nonfiction/Fashion photography</div><div><b>Overall Grade: </b>A</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></div><div>Scott Schuman just wanted to take pictures of people on the street who looked great. His now renowned fashion blog, <a href="http://www.thesartorialist.com/">The Sartorialist</a>, was an attempt to showcase the wonderful and varied style of real people--not only those of the fashion industry. This book is an anthology of Scott's favorite shots from around the world, including well-known fashion figures, as well as shots of anonymous passersby whose outfits are created with comendable imagination and taste. From the streets of Rio to Beijing, Stockholm to Milan, these are the people that have inspired Scott and in turn, inspired designers and people of all ages, wage and nationalities with an interest in fashion.</div><div><div><br /></div><div><i><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></i><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">My thoughts:</span> </b>The Sartorialist </i>is a book that I want to keep around--sitting on my</div><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 155px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pRkQz06YwfE/Te7LM4J8wPI/AAAAAAAADWA/mkx7M6DXMu0/s200/the_sartorialist_paris_photo.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615649207470571762" /><div> dresser as a source of inspiration when I'm getting dressed in the morning, resting on my coffee table when I want a dash of beauty in my day, in my hand as I commute home from school. A collection of beautiful, glossy, color shots, this book truly satisfies the fashion junkie within me.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>One of the best things about this anthology is that it is light on words and heavy on images--showing, and not telling, about the extraordinary and unusual job of Mr. Schuman, and the people he meets and encounters on a daily basis, picking them out of a crowd.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>I spent a whole afternoon combing through the book and taking notes on my favorite outfits. The book is small (ideal for travel!), but packed full of funny anecdotes, memorable faces, and unique looks that make me want to paw through my closet and put together my own polished outfits.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></div><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J5Wb-DMbek0/Te7LeN6vKLI/AAAAAAAADWI/fOGYDoI15Q4/s200/sartorialist%2Bbook-thumb-233x349.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615649505370122418" /><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"></span></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Mr. Schuman is beyond a "fashion photographer"--he is a portrait artist, </div><div>capturing the personality and inner essence of every person he photographs. The way he photographs clothes gives readers tiny glimpses into the private lives of his subjects--the holes in the shoes of the tiny woman on one of the glossy, minimalistic pages hints at a difficult life, but her brightly colored bag is a spark of hope.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></div><div>Some of the outfits are good enough to be replicated, some are quirky and bizarre, and yet others are stunning takes on "fashion" that you want to hang on your walls.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>I will definitely continue reading The Sartorialist blog daily, and this chunky book of style makes a great gift for a fashion or photography-crazy friend.</div><div><br /></div></div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-11780058070951964042011-06-04T19:10:00.001-07:002011-06-09T21:52:36.684-07:00Monthly Mailbox: May<div style="text-align: left;">My take on the <a href="http://www.thestorysiren.com/">Story Siren</a>'s In My Mailbox!</div><div>Thank you to Random House Children's Books!</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s2VFMajsykk/Terl2VkhFTI/AAAAAAAADVw/tdAaQu3aL5U/s320/IMG_0132.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5614552607136748850" /></div><div><ul><li><i>I So Don't Do Famous </i>by Barrie Summy</li><li><i>Things I Know About Love </i>by Kate le Vann</li><li><i>Passion </i>by Lauren Kate</li><li><i>The Lucky Kind </i>by Alyssa B. Sheinmel</li><li><i>Tighter </i>by Adele Griffin</li><li><i>Kiss of Death </i>by Lauren Henderson</li></ul></div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-30874687137751704372011-05-25T20:28:00.001-07:002011-06-09T15:41:06.738-07:00The A Circuit<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3BBY2hSLZYs/TfFLv94p1QI/AAAAAAAADWY/SqBy4eG8GM4/s1600/the-a-circuit.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3BBY2hSLZYs/TfFLv94p1QI/AAAAAAAADWY/SqBy4eG8GM4/s320/the-a-circuit.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616353497745839362" /></a><br /><b>Authors: </b>Georgina Bloomberg &amp; Catherine Hapka<div><b>Pages: </b>272</div><div><b>Published: </b>Bloomsbury, 2011</div><div><b>Genre: </b>Realistic fiction</div><div><b>Cover Score: </b>B</div><div><b>Overall Grade: </b>A-</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>On the A-circuit, talented teenage equestrians travel the country competing at top levels of horse showing, in the hopes of winning prestige and glory. At Pelham Lane Stables outside of New York City, the teen riders are some of the best competing on the circuit. Tommi, a billionaire heiress, and Kate, a working student are serious about their riding. So when party girl Zara Trask, daughter of a famous rock star, shows up at Pelham Lane in a wake of drama and attitude from LA, she is not welcome. Then there's Fitz, the barn's resident Casanova, who just wants Kate to give him a chance. But for these girls, who all want to prove themselves, the real challenge will be when the drama from the real world spills into the show ring!</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span>My thoughts: </b>A</span>s an equestrian who competes on the A-circuit herself, I was pleasantly surprised and satisfied by Ms. Bloomberg's debut in young adult fiction. The author's account of the elite level of horseback riding is accurate (although a bit more melodramatic), and she doesn't try to gloss over the less-glamorous aspects of the sport, giving the reader a good understanding of all of the work, sweat, and tears that are part of the horse world.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>All three main characters were well-developed and had a good background story: party animal Zara is sick of living under her famous father's shadow, working-girl Kate is trying to make a name for herself despite her self-doubt, and Tommi wants to prove that she is more than her father's money. It was interesting to see how each girl struggled with her personal problems, attempting to solve them, as the plot progressed. The book itself was fast-paced, and I whipped through the chapters, eagerly seeing what was next. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>For girls who love horses and enjoy books like <i>Gossip Girl</i>, <i>The A-Circuit </i>is perfect. While I was expecting a <i>Clique</i>-like novel filled chock-full with mean girls, catfights, and tension, I was pleasantly surprised by how I could relate to all 3 of the girls, and the bonds between them and their teammates, their horses. There was still a level of privilege and social drama, but it only made the plot more interesting and juicier</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>However, I was expecting more action from the novel, and was a bit disappointed by the abrupt ending (I felt that it needed more closure). Nevertheless, Ms. Bloomberg has the makings of a great series on her hands--she has set up conflicts and left me with questions that I am excited to see answered in future books. All in all, I can't wait for more fast-paced action, suspense, and romance.</div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-37710724707557937122011-05-14T11:44:00.001-07:002011-05-30T22:01:00.658-07:00Tempest Rising<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7b1k61HSiBA/TeR1_eVrq3I/AAAAAAAADVc/v75atdqIPHg/s1600/tempest%2Brising.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 212px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7b1k61HSiBA/TeR1_eVrq3I/AAAAAAAADVc/v75atdqIPHg/s320/tempest%2Brising.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612740768946695026" /></a><br /><b>Author: </b>Tracy Deebs<div><b>Pages: </b>341</div><div><b>Published: </b>Walker Books for Young Readers, 2011</div><div><b>Genre: </b>Paranormal/Romance</div><div><b>Cover Score: </b>B-</div><div><b>Overall Grade: </b>A</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Tempest Maguire is more than comfortable with the life she has: her one love is surfing the California waves with her boyfriend, Mark, and hanging out with her dad and two little brothers. However, Tempest's 17th birthday is approaching, and she will have to make a decision that typical teenagers don't have to face: as a half-mermaid, does she want to remain on land, or does she want to give herself to the ocean like her mermaid mother, who left Tempest and her brothers 11 years ago to return to her true home? Even though Tempest loves her friends and family, the pull of the water is becoming increasingly insistent, as is her attraction to Kai, a mysterious and gorgeous surfer whose superhuman abilities hint at an otherworldly identity as well. When Tempest enters the underwater world, it is unlike anything she ever could have imagined--she will come face to face with power-hungry sea witches, terrifying monsters, her mother, and, ultimately, her destiny, which the whole sea depends on...</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><b>My thoughts: </b>Wow! I am definitely loving this current "mermaid" trend in YA! <i>Tempest Rising </i>was enchanting and beautifully written. I was sucked in to Tempest's story by page one, and it was an exhilarating ride, right up to the conclusion.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>I really liked how the book wasn't <i>all </i>fantasy: it was about romance; it was about a mother and a daughter; it was about choosing your future. There was a perfect amount of lead-up (aka Tempest's life on land), so that I got to know Tempest's character and the importance of the decisions she had to make. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>There was so much emotion jam-packed into a couple of hundred pages, and as a reader, I felt them all, sympathizing for Tempest. I felt the tension within the Mark-Tempest-Kai love triangle, I felt Tempest's longing for the sea, I felt her anger towards being abandoned by her mother, I experienced her confusion and fear at turning into a mermaid, I felt the love she had for her brothers and father, and I felt her guilt as if it were my own. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>In addition, Ms. Deebs created a fantastical underwater environment that gave the novel a genuine 3D feel. I felt as if I were swimming alongside Tempest in this magical alternate reality that was flawlessly created. Tempest was easy to relate to, and I saw a lot of myself in her.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Although I was expecting more action and adventure and less internal monologue, I really enjoyed the fast, thrilling, romantic, ride of <i>Tempest Rising. </i>Overall, a stunning debut. I can't wait to see what's next for Tracy Deebs, Tempest, and Kai!</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Must-Read!</b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Check it Out!<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Don't Bother<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-82229068846265674492011-05-09T21:57:00.000-07:002011-05-15T20:33:23.153-07:00OyMG<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HAwYYiAH3sA/TdCav3de62I/AAAAAAAADVM/gZ9Fzls9qw0/s1600/OyMG.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HAwYYiAH3sA/TdCav3de62I/AAAAAAAADVM/gZ9Fzls9qw0/s320/OyMG.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607151683208407906" /></a><br /><b>Author: </b>Amy Fellner Dominy<div><b>Pages: </b>256</div><div><b>Published: </b>May 11 2011, Walker Books for Young Readers</div><div><b>Cover Score: </b>B</div><div><b>Overall Grade: </b>A</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Ellie Taylor loves nothing more than a good argument. After all, she's been arguing with her Yiddish grandfather, Zeydeh, ever since she could talk. So when she gets accepted to the Christian Society Speech and Performing Arts summer camp, she's psyched--the end-of-camp speech tournament could present her with a scholarship to the best speech school in the country! However, winning the scholarship won't be easy. The competition is hot--literally. His name is Devon Yeats, and whether she likes it or not, he makes her sizzle! Ellie is determined to win--until she discovers that the scholarship's private benefactor has negative feelings towards Jews. Will hiding her true identity and heritage be worth a shot at her dream?</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span>My thoughts: </b>I really, really enjoyed <i>OyMG. </i>It was funny, it was witty; it was lighthearted and fun and unique.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>First of all, I need to acknowledge all of the wonderful characters. Ellie was a realistic protagonist who was struggling between hiding her true identity to fit in (and therefore disappointing her family), and revealing her secret, which could ruin her dream. I felt that the situations Ellie found herself in were relatable. She had a great, energetic voice, and her story really spoke to me, even though I'm not Jewish. I feel like any teen can relate to her situation. Zeydeh, Ellie's traditional Jewish grandfather, was absolutely endearing--his words of wisdom really stuck with me, and provide a strong, positive message for the book. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>I loved the humor in the plot--the witty banter between Devon and Ellie lightened up some of the heavier issues that the novel brought to the table, such as modern-day anti-Semitism and accepting who you are.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> Although this story was about so much more than going to a speech camp, </span>the setting of the camp was a fun addition, and gave the story a unique edge (and really helped boost the dramatic ending!). </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>All in all, <i>OyMG </i>gave me that warm, and satisfying feeling, like I had just eaten a bowl of hot, homemade matzo ball soup. A great debut for middle-grade readers!</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Must-Read!<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><b>Check it Out!</b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><b> </b> </span>Don't Bother!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">*** Thank you to Kate Lied and Bloomsbury Children's Books for giving me the great opportunity to participate in this blog tour!</span></div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-82391948893529518922011-05-03T16:52:00.000-07:002011-05-03T16:58:42.777-07:00Free E-Book Alert!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q7KNE6MruR4/TcCWmvfTNdI/AAAAAAAADVE/NX-UHj8ouvU/s1600/Songs%2Bfor%2Ba%2BTeenage%2BNomad.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q7KNE6MruR4/TcCWmvfTNdI/AAAAAAAADVE/NX-UHj8ouvU/s320/Songs%2Bfor%2Ba%2BTeenage%2BNomad.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602643528775841234" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">From May 3 through May 9th, Sourcebooks is offering a free e-book copy of Kim Culbertson's <i>Songs for a Teenage Nomad! </i>If you're interested in checking out this award-winning YA book, click <a href="http://www.sourcebooks.com/readers/browse-our-lists/ebook-specials.html">here</a>! As well, keep your eyes peeled for a review of Kim's latest release, <i>Instructions for a Broken Heart, </i>coming soon on my blog! Meanwhile, you can check out the book trailer <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFJ0KPvsRyY&amp;feature=youtu.be&amp;hd=1">here</a> and get excited for a novel jam-packed with romance, humor, and Italy!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-22869471555279617352011-05-01T13:06:00.000-07:002011-05-01T13:26:40.371-07:00Monthly Mailbox<div style="text-align: left;">...A very lazy book blogger's take on <a href="http://www.thestorysiren.com">The Story Siren</a>'s "In My Mailbox"! Here's the contents of my mailbox for the month of April...and maybe even February and March, too. :)</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8w_P02V23yo/Tb2_52ZZ1AI/AAAAAAAADUs/n6RKfhdwZIg/s320/DSC_0232.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5601844512094278658" /><div><ul><li><b>Famous </b>by Todd Strasser</li><li><b>The Time-Traveling Fashionista </b>by Bianca Turetsky</li><li><b>North of Beautiful </b>by Justina Chen Headley</li><li><b>Where I Belong </b>by Gwendolyn Heasley</li></ul><div><br /></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8BGmNY57ggE/Tb3AcyimP6I/AAAAAAAADU0/nwhnIR2ooRo/s320/DSC_0235.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5601845112354520994" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">For Review (many thanks to Bloomsbury Children's Books &amp; Sourcebooks!):</div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul><li><b>Are You Going to Kiss Me Now? </b>by Sloane Tanen</li><li><b>The A-Circuit </b>by Georgina Bloomberg</li><li><b>OyMG </b>by Amy Fellner Dominy</li><li><b>Tempest Rising </b>by Tracy Deebs</li><li><b>Flawless </b>by Lara Chapman</li></ul><div>For Review, cont. (many thanks to Random House Children's Books):</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v_DJGt0gM8Y/Tb3BA9B9Y_I/AAAAAAAADU8/iJrJcurxeeU/s320/DSC_0238.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5601845733645706226" /></div></div><div><ul><li><b>The Dark and Hollow Places </b>by Carrie Ryan</li><li><b>The FitzOsbornes in Exile </b>by Michelle Cooper</li><li><b>Exposed </b>by Kimberley Marcus</li><li><b>Jersey Tomatoes are the Best </b>by Maria Padian</li><li><b>Like Mandarin </b>by Kirsten Hubbard</li><li><b>Orchards </b>by Holly Thompson</li><li><b>Seven Kinds of Ordinary Catastrophes </b>by Amber Kizer</li></ul><div>(not pictured): </div></div></div></div><div><ul><li><b>Faerie Winter </b>by Janni Lee Simner</li><li><b>Flip </b>by Martyn Bedford</li><li><b>Rotters </b>by Daniel Kraus</li></ul></div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-18677585938012240742011-04-13T21:20:00.000-07:002011-04-14T10:18:42.831-07:00Demonglass<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iQ6_gjD4Prg/TacsbIKCCPI/AAAAAAAADUE/8w_6mV2fs1M/s1600/7862667.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iQ6_gjD4Prg/TacsbIKCCPI/AAAAAAAADUE/8w_6mV2fs1M/s200/7862667.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595489906588780786" /></a><br /><b>Author: </b>Rachel Hawkins<div><b>Pages: </b>359</div><div><b>Published: </b>Hyperion, 2011</div><div><b>Genre: </b>Fantasy/Mystery</div><div><b>Cover Score: </b>B+</div><div><b>Overall Grade: </b>A</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Sophie Mercer's last semester at Hecate Hall (aka reform school for shape-shifters, witches, and faeries) was stressful. Not only did she find out that she was a demon, but her great-grandmother killed her best frenemy and her crush turned out to be working for an organization whose goal is to wipe out all demons. As one of the two demons (the other is her father) in the world, Sophie possesses dangerous and volatile powers that threaten everyone she loves, which is why she decides to go to London to get the Removal--a perilous procedure that would remove all of her powers. But when Sophie arrives, her new housemates are demons--which means that someone's secretly raising demons, with creepy plans to use their powers (and probably not for good). Meanwhile, the Eye is still hunting down Sophie in hopes of wiping her off the face of the earth, and they're using her ex-crush Archer to do it. Good thing she doesn't have feelings for him anymore. Right?</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><b>My thoughts: </b><i>Demonglass </i>as definitely one of the best books I've read this year. While I loved the first book in this series, <i><a href="http://bookwormbooklovers.blogspot.com/2010/03/hex-hall.html">Hex Hall</a></i>, <i>Demonglass </i>simply blew me away! This novel was just the right length--there was plenty of action, juicy secrets, and romance packed in, and it wasn't too lengthy or complex. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>I loved Sophie as the narrator--she was fresh, funny, and relatable. I enjoyed seeing her relationship with her father flourish, and I loved her witty interactions with Archer. The plotline moved quickly and fluidly, and was easy to follow. Ms. Hawkins clearly spent a lot of time on details when it came to the magical properties of the characters, and it showed. The demon history and background information that she provided helped the plot become 3-dimensional and realistic (well, as real as demons and witches can get!). </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Thorne Abbey, where Sophie stays in England, made a great setting. It was mystical and mysterious, and Ms. Hawkins's beautiful descriptions made it come to life.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>I do have to put forth a warning--once you start reading <i>Demonglass, </i>you most likely will not be able to put it down until the heart-stopping, cliff-hanging ending. I can't wait to see what's next for Sophie in this thrilling, exhilarating series!</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Must-Read! <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Check it Out!<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Don't Bother</span></b></div><div><br /></div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-54847601925571948362011-04-06T15:23:00.001-07:002011-04-14T10:19:22.444-07:00Mystify<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hRksX_CeBwI/TaZzR50Bu4I/AAAAAAAADT8/vGZ3Rx4s8rw/s1600/mystify1-200x312.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 128px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hRksX_CeBwI/TaZzR50Bu4I/AAAAAAAADT8/vGZ3Rx4s8rw/s200/mystify1-200x312.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595286338468428674" /></a><br /><b>Author: </b>Artist Arthur<div><b>Pages: </b>245</div><div><b>Published: </b>KimaniTru, 2011</div><div><b>Genre: </b>Paranormal</div><div><b>Cover Score: </b>C</div><div><b>Overall Grade: </b>n/a</div><div><br /></div><div>Growing up with parents who are more interested in the Lincoln, Connecticut social scene than their own daughter, Sasha Carrington has always felt like an outsider. That is, until she meets Jake and Krystal--her fellow Mystyx who, like her, possess supernatural capabilities that they use to battle a mysterious dark force that is headed towards Lincoln. Not only is Sasha trying to grapple with her new powers and where they come from, she's also dealing with social pressures from her parents, as well as unexplainable feelings for Antoine Watson, a boy who she shouldn't like, but can't help feeling drawn to. The dark side is getting stronger, and as Sasha's powers grow, she must come face-to-face with decisions that affect her friends, family, and, ultimately, her destiny.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span>My thoughts: </b>I really, really don't like giving bad reviews, but I just couldn't finish <i>Mystify. </i>At about 100 pages in, I had to put it down. I was really disappointed by the second book of the otherwise promising <i>Mystyx </i>series. After really enjoying the first book in this new ghostly paranormal trilogy, <i>Manifest</i>, I was surprised that <i>Mystify </i>and I didn't click. It had all the ingredients for success: forbidden romance, a modern and realistic protagonist, and a unique paranormal twist that even included mythology, which I love.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>I just felt like I couldn't relate to Sasha's character, like she wasn't a real person. Her generic narrative felt very forced and formulaic, and after a while, the storyline became too wordy and slow to keep me interested. I know there is a suspenseful, fast-paced plot hiding underneath all of Sasha's internal monologues and lengthy descriptions of everything and everyone, but I just could not locate it. As well, the powers of the Mystyx and exactly what they do and what dark force they are trying to stop was unclear to me, which muddied the storyline and gave it no clear destination.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Who knows? Maybe I'll give <i>Mystify </i>another try later on down the road, but for now, I can't say that I'll be able to complete this series.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Must-Read!<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Check it Out!<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><b>Don't Bother</b></div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-48516184261428882912011-04-01T18:30:00.000-07:002011-04-13T20:54:34.577-07:00Mini Reviews!<div>Here's what I've been reading lately during my lapse from blogging (very very bad, I know, but life happens!). I've been super busy and took the small amounts of free time I've had to catch up on books that I should have started way earlier! :) </div><div><br /></div><div><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 132px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-roiMoMbiUcs/TaZurV9GBFI/AAAAAAAADTk/tuIYzL4zSCw/s200/hunger-games1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595281277961241682" /></div><div><b>Title: </b>The Hunger Games</div><div><b>Author: </b>Suzanne Collins </div><div><b>Pages: </b>384</div><div><b>Published: </b>2008, Scholastic </div><div><b>Genre: </b>Action/Fantasy/Dystopia</div><div><b>Overall Grade: </b>A</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>In the not-so-distant-future, North America has collapsed into a single country (divided into thirteen districts) called Panem. Each year, two children from each district are selected to battle it out to the death in the televised, gladiator-sport-like Hunger Games, in the hopes of obtaining ultimate glory for their district. A talented hunter and survivalist, 16 year old Katniss Everdeen is used to fending for herself and her family in impoverished, filthy District 12. However, when her little sister is selected to be in the brutal Hunger Games, she volunteers to take her spot, and alongside fellow District 12 tribute Peeta Mellark, she must fight for her life when she is plunged into the violent world of the Games. As time goes by, she must face the difficult decision of love vs. survival.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>My thoughts: </b><i>The Hunger Games </i>was unlike anything I've ever read before. Impossibly brutal, candid, and fast-paced, I was sucked into this dystopian world and into the mind of the book's bold, brave heroine Katniss Everdeen, who was relatable, strong, and admirable. This is one of those books that, after reading, I ask myself: <i>why didn't I read this sooner</i>? I picked up the <i>Hunger Games </i>on a rainy day and was plunged into the violent, harsh environment of the Games. I could picture every event in my mind, and the characters were realistic and interesting.</div><div>Ms. Collins' story packs a punch: she has an imagination that, combined with a knack for word-weaving, resulted in a heart-pounding, adrenaline-rushing read that moves quickly and effortlessly. Both devastating and beautiful at the same time, <i>The Hunger Games </i>has the capacity to affect more than just young adults.</div><div><i><br /></i></div><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 132px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E3yDbc3-fZM/TaZvAXaYhII/AAAAAAAADTs/VXXcTIMVXfE/s200/wicked.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595281639129777282" /><div><b>Title: </b>Wicked (<i>Pretty Little Liars </i>#5)</div><div><b>Author: </b>Sara Shepard</div><div><b>Pages: </b>336</div><div><b>Published: </b>HarperTeen, 2009</div><div><b>Genre: </b>Mystery/Contemporary fiction</div><div><b>Overall Grade: </b>B</div><div><br /></div><div>Aria, Emily, Hanna, and Spencer have had a stressful start to their junior year of high school. After their best friend Alison was murdered, they were taunted by threats from an anonymous stalker who dangled their darkest secrets over their heads--secrets only Alison knew. Now, the stalker has finally been caught, and Ali's killer has been put in jail. These four pretty little liars are ready for their lives to go back to normal. But in the privileged town of Rosewood, Pennsylvania, nothing is as it seems...And these little liars had better watch their backs, especially with the new secrets they've each been harboring: Aria's crushing on her mom's new boyfriend, Hanna's stepsister has questionable intentions, Emily's got a new <i>boy</i>friend, and Spencer is diving into dark family history. What they don't know is that someone is <i>always </i>watching...</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><b>My thoughts: </b>I'm completely addicted to this series. Once again, I don't know why I didn't start reading the <i>Pretty Little Liars </i>books sooner<i>. </i>The books are the perfect combination of fluffy chick lit (boys, clothes, drama) and heart-pounding thriller (mystery, murder, suspense). However, <i>Wicked </i>wasn't as good as the previous four books in this addictive, fast-paced series. Coming off of a huge, scandalous reveal in <i>Unbelievable </i>(book #4), <i>Wicked </i>didn't seem to have the same heart-stopping thrills and constantly-moving action that kept me riveted to my seat, madly flipping pages. In fact, <i>Wicked </i>was mildly ho-hum, except for the big surprise ending. While <i>Wicked </i>is a must-read for series fans, I felt like it was nothing more than a transition from the fourth book to the sixth book--but it sets up what I expect will be big action in <i>Killer</i>, the sixth book<i>.</i></div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-74319359395086914592011-02-25T09:11:00.001-08:002011-03-03T18:45:05.395-08:00Chatting with Suzanne Selfors<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fA0RPVJ666U/TXBRbaJ6a_I/AAAAAAAADTE/EZe7OIL-JZU/s1600/selfors%2Bpix.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fA0RPVJ666U/TXBRbaJ6a_I/AAAAAAAADTE/EZe7OIL-JZU/s320/selfors%2Bpix.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580049469631261682" /></a><br /><div>Thanks to Suzanne, the author of newly-released <i><a href="p://bookwormbooklovers.blogspot.com/2011/02/mad-love.html">Mad Love</a></i>, as well as fellow YA reads <i>Saving Juliet </i>and <i><a href="http://bookwormbooklovers.blogspot.com/2009/07/coffeehouse-angel.html">Coffeehouse Angel</a>! </i>Welcome, Suzanne, and congratulations on the new book!</div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>What inspired you to write <i>Mad Love</i>?</div><div><b>Suzanne: </b>I have long loved Greek and Roman mythology. In <i>Coffeehouse Angel </i>I reimagined the Greek messenger god, Hermes. And in my first adult book, <i>Daughters of Crete, </i>I reimagined the story of Ariadne. I knew I wanted to do something with Cupid. So I thought about it for a while. The story took shape over many intense revisions.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>Bipolar disorder plays a large role in the novel. How did you research this topic?</div><div><b>Suzanne: </b>I read about it. But I also drew from my own childhood. My father struggled with manic episodes, and he also struggled with anxiety and depression, for which he self-medicated with alcohol. He was never diagnosed bi-polar but I'm guessing he would have been if he'd ever sought help.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>Do you believe in Cupid?</div><div><b>Suzanne: </b>Cupid is the God of passionate love, the kind of love that hits you real hard and fries your brain for a month or two. I've experienced it firsthand. Who hasn't?</div><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GI8NJk8G1uU/TXBRlXREjtI/AAAAAAAADTM/Pu90f2IifQU/s200/9780802784506.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580049640654671570" /><div><br /></div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>If you were a cheesy romance-novel writer, like Alice's mom in the book, what would your first book be named?</div><div><b>Suzanne: </b>Well, I have this thing about the Scottish highlands and men in kilts to it would be something like <i>Hung in the Highlands</i>. :)</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>What was your favorite part of the book to write?</div><div><b>Suzanne: </b>The ending!</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>Which character is most like you, and why?</div><div><b>Suzanne: </b>I guess I most relate to the mother character, Belinda Amorous, simply because she's a working writer with a teen daughter.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>What is your next writing project?</div><div><b>Suzanne: </b>I'm busy with my next teen novel, which will be released in 2012 if I can ever finish the thing. And my next middle grade novel, <i>Smells Like Treasure</i>, comes out in May 2011.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>What are your writing essentials (environment, music, snacks, etc)?</div><div><b>Suzanne: </b>I need something hot to drink, usually it's a nonfat latte, sometimes it's Earl Gray tea. I like white noise so I usually work in a coffeehouse.</div><div>--------------------</div><div>To learn more about Suzanne's other books and to view <i>Mad Love</i>'s awesome book trailer, visit her website <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.suzanneselfors.com">here</a>!</div><div>Thanks, Suznne--we can't wait to see what's next for you!</div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-77943586427928431692011-02-20T18:20:00.001-08:002011-04-14T10:19:52.724-07:00Mad Love<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AMOwKY6dNdI/TWH0wHl3TVI/AAAAAAAADSk/6mrQRwnmHSU/s1600/images.jpeg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AMOwKY6dNdI/TWH0wHl3TVI/AAAAAAAADSk/6mrQRwnmHSU/s200/images.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576006921170144594" /></a><br /><b>Author: </b>Suzanne Selfors<div><b>Pages: </b>325</div><div><b>Published: </b>Walker &amp; Company, 2011</div><div><b>Genre: </b>Contemporary fiction/Fantasy/Romance</div><div><b>Cover Score: </b>C-</div><div><b>Overall Grade: A</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>As the daughter of the bestselling Queen of Romance, life for sixteen-year-old Alice Amorous should be pretty sweet. But ever since her mother was secretly hospitalized for mental illness, Alice has been forced to maintain a brave front--living alone; lying to her new crush Tony; forging her mother's signature; answering fan letters; telling the publisher that all is well and the Queen's next book is on its way. Now time is running out, and so is their money. The next book is overdue and the Queen can't write it. Alice needs to deliver a new novel for her mother--and she needs to come up with one fast. That's when she meets Errol, a strange guy claiming to be Cupid, who insists that Alice must write about his tragic romance with Psyche--the greatest love story of all time. Alice needs the story, but can she trust Errol? After all, she doesn't believe in Cupid...</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><b>My thoughts: </b>I'm a huge fan of Suzanne Selfors, so I was thrilled to read her latest book. Luckily, I loved it just as much as her previous books--if not more. The thing that made <i>Mad Love </i>such a winner to me was its amazing, hilarious, diverse cast of characters.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>I loved all of the characters, from Alice herself to the crazy neighbors that share her Seattle apartment complex: Ms. Selfors clearly spent time crafting each unique personality to perfection. The characters created a fresh, 3 dimensional sort of family unit in the novel, and I felt like the characters were the type of people I'd encounter in real life: lovable, quirky, realistic, funny, and often frustrating.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>As well, I appreciated all of the smaller subplots woven into the main storyline, creating depth: Alice's crush on Tony, Alice and Errol's story, Alice's family drama, Alice's neighborhood life. I also appreciated Ms. Selfor's research skills. The facts she included on Alice's mother's bipolar disorder helped build the plot and made me sympathize towards Alice--Ms. Selfors has an ability to evoke emotion in her readers. The plot moved quickly and fluidly, making for an easy read whose pages I couldn't stop turning. In <i>Mad Love, </i>I experienced the mark of a truly good book: while reading, I felt like I was submerged in the plot itself, like I was Alice, experiencing the events firsthand.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>A funny, light, bittersweet novel that is fresh and unique, <i>Mad Love </i>gives you that warm and fuzzy feeling after you've finished reading--I'm totally in love with this book!</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Must-Read!<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Check it Out!<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Don't Bother</span></span></b></div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-75197697977932153812011-02-19T09:59:00.001-08:002011-02-19T10:04:54.981-08:00Cover Love!<div style="text-align: left;">Lisa Mantchev's <i>Theatre Illuminata </i>books have always struck me as having the most exquisite covers. What do you think about the cover for the 3rd book, <i>So Silver Bright </i>(coming out September 13th!) I can't wait to see what's next for Bertie &amp; co!</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 215px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uASFrqCeBGA/TWAF100RKYI/AAAAAAAADSc/Mtoz21krkJ0/s320/So%2BSilver%2BBright%2Bcover%2Bfor%2Breveal.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575462760953751938" /></div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-37087689609614870392011-02-15T20:55:00.000-08:002011-04-14T17:16:33.276-07:00Jenna and Jonah's Fauxmance<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6WWPElI5KoA/TV80jTHrn-I/AAAAAAAADSM/ZSRVQpKXM6g/s1600/images.jpeg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6WWPElI5KoA/TV80jTHrn-I/AAAAAAAADSM/ZSRVQpKXM6g/s200/images.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575232644740521954" /></a><br /><b>Authors: </b>Emily Franklin &amp; Brendan Halpin<div><b>Pages: </b>229</div><div><b>Published: </b>Walker &amp; Company, 2011</div><div><b>Genre: </b>Contemporary fiction</div><div><b>Cover Score: </b>B+</div><div><b>Overall Grade: </b>B+</div><div><br /></div><div>Charlie Tracker and Fielding Withers have two jobs. One is to star on their megahit comedy TV show, <i>Jenna and Jonah's How to Be a Rock Star</i>. Their second job is to pretend to be a real-life couple, boosting ratings and attracting show publicity. The downside? Charlie and Fielding can't stand each other. So when a harmful rumor that could potentially ruin their futures and their fauxmance is started by a pesky paparazzo, Charlie and Fielding must go into hiding until the scandal dies down. Far from Hollywood, Charlie and Fielding finally get to know each other away from the chaos and stress of their job, and find that they actually might have a shot at getting along. Or has this fauxmance-gone-wrong ruined their chance for real love?</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><b>My thoughts</b>: <i>Jenna and Jonah's Fauxmance </i>as a light, funny, and sincere novel that exceeded my expectations. While I expected the story to be predictable and cheesy, it was witty and had me rooting for the two main characters until the end.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>The plot moved fast, and it was easy to follow. My favorite parts? When Fielding and Charlie went into hiding in an isolated beachhouse, and, of course, the Shakespeare festival! I enjoyed how Charlie and Fielding's feelings for each other developed over time in a realistic way, and their banter was sarcastic and amusing, keeping readers entertained throughout the story. I also appreciated all of the "behind the scenes" Hollywood information--the authors clearly either have experience in the industry or did their research.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>I only wished that there had been more background information on the characters and their TV show. I felt like Fielding and Charlie lacked depth, and relatability to them was absent until the last few chapters of the book (although I did appreciate the alternating point of view, which helped me see the world through their eyes). As well, I felt like the first three quarters of the book were slow and boring. The story only began to progress when the two main characters headed to Oregon for their "last chance" at the Shakespeare festival--there was simply too much lead-up.</div><div> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>However, the plot evolved from being a romantic, bitingly funny romp into a story about finding the true you, proving yourself, and discovering what you truly want. While it sounds corny, the information and themes were brought up in a way that was interesting, fresh and hilarious.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>To fans of Hollywood stories, <i>Jenna and Jonah's Fauxmance </i>was a cute, clever, and easy read that's perfect to bring along with you during spring break!</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Must-Read!<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><b>Check it Out!<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Don't Bother</span></b></div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-83107549476655893102011-02-13T19:41:00.000-08:002011-02-13T19:43:25.143-08:00Last Day to Enter for Ruby Oliver!If you haven't already, enter the Ruby Oliver contest <a href="http://bookwormbooklovers.blogspot.com/2011/01/e-lockhart-guest-blog-and-giveaway.html">here</a>! I'll be giving away <b>6 </b>copies of the final book in E. Lockhart's charming, hilarious, and romantic series. Enter before tomorrow night at midnight for your chance to win!Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-38628319761748625672011-01-31T20:59:00.001-08:002011-02-01T15:08:07.517-08:00The Monday Muse: Interview with Jennifer Solow<img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 187px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_K_pbpq0E5Og/TUiSDwPkE5I/AAAAAAAADRc/LNlfs5MR2r8/s200/Unknown.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568861532431061906" /><br /><br /><b>Today's muse: </b>Jennifer Solow<div><b>Author of: </b><i>The Aristobrats </i>(review <a href="http://bookwormbooklovers.blogspot.com/2010/12/aristobrats.html">here</a>)</div><div>----------------------------</div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>Welcome, Jennifer! Let's start with the vital question--how did you decide to become a writer?</div><div><b>Jennifer: </b>I was a managing partner/creative director of an advertising agency was stuck in a meeting in Manhattan, just a few blocks from the World Trade Center, on September 11th. By the end of that day I decided that, if there was going to be a tomorrow, I better do something good with it. I left my cushy job and took my first writing class. An assignment I was working on in class eventually became a novel. That novel became a national bestseller. That day I learned that there are no excuses for not doing something you love. It's never too late.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>Was <i>The Aristobrats </i>based off of any of your life experiences?</div><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 98px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_K_pbpq0E5Og/TUiSLWcv7II/AAAAAAAADRk/PcPxrQKhCI4/s200/Screen%2Bshot%2B2011-02-01%2Bat%2B3.08.36%2BPM.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568861662945995906" /><div><b>Jennifer: </b>I went to Winchester-Thurston, a school that has similarities to Wallingford. Many of the characters and even some of the names in the book are inspired by people I know. There's a scene in the next Aristobrats book which is exactly something that happened to a friend of mine in school. It was highly embarrassing--I knew it would make it into a book some day!</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>What was the inspiration behind <i>The Aristobrats</i>?</div><div><b>Jennifer: </b>One word? The anti-<i>Clique</i>. My children are in middle school. I wanted to write something I'd be proud for them to read and they, in turn, would be proud for their friends to read. The book is about the struggles of popularity and being a good person and a good friend. Or at least <i>trying </i>your best. I wanted to write a book about popular girls that also has a good message. You don't have to be Massie Block.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>Which Aristobrat are you most like, and why?</div><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_K_pbpq0E5Og/TUiSQn3nLfI/AAAAAAAADRs/d24XfdRK8kU/s200/images.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568861753521417714" /><div><b>Jennifer: </b>I'm a little like all of them but mostly Parker. Parker is insecure deep down but has learned to project confidence to the point where she actually feels it. She's also a good friend. I think I may dress a little crazier--like Kiki.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>What was your writing process like?</div><div><b>Jennifer: </b>I write everyday either in my office or in the library. I also exercise every day, which helps my brain kick into gear. Some days I get stuck--on those days I go shopping.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>What's your next writing project?</div><div><b>Jennifer: </b>The next <i>Aristobrats</i>!</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>What were your writing necessities while you were writing <i>The Aristobrats</i>? (for example: music, food, etc...)</div><div><b>Jennifer: </b>I can't listen to music <i>when </i>I write--I find it distracting, although I am inspired by music. I have a lot of Taylor Swift on my "playlist" for this book. Cybervixen. Gwen Stefani. The only thing I need is a spot to sit, my computer and an enormous thermos of Japanese Hojicha tea.</div><div>-------------------</div><div>Thank you so much, Jennifer!</div><div>To find out more about upcoming books and to see which Aristobrat you're most like, visit Jennifer's website <a href="http://www.jennifersolow.com/">here</a>.</div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-64803585643209768602011-01-30T15:26:00.001-08:002011-04-14T17:17:38.740-07:00The Lying Game<img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 132px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_K_pbpq0E5Og/TUX5EKO8m5I/AAAAAAAADRE/DUeilIoJ1BI/s200/images.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568130364175326098" /><b>Author: </b>Sara Shepard<div><b>Pages: </b>307</div><div><b>Published: </b>HarperTeen, 2010</div><div><b>Genre: </b>Mystery/Thriller</div><div><b>Cover Score: </b>A</div><div><b>Overall Grade: </b>A-</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>When orphan Emma Paxton learns that she has a long-lost identical sister, Sutton, she is thrilled. Stealing away from her foster home, she travels to Arizona to meet up with the twin she never met, only to discover that Sutton has been murdered, and someone (could it be Sutton's killer?) wants Emma to slip into her sister's old life, posing as Sutton as a way to avoid any suspicion. But as Emma becomes her twin, she realizes that keeping up the act is harder then it seems, especially since Sutton's murderer is watching her every move. Emma learns that Sutton has some dirty little secrets to hide--especially in the form of the Lying Game, a vicious prank war that Sutton and her friends orchestrate. Emma's determined to get to the bottom of her sister's murder, but the killer might be closer than she thinks...</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span>My thoughts: </b><i>The Lying Game </i>was a fast-paced, addictive, and thrilling rush. I was surprised at how different it was from Ms. Shepard's <i>Pretty Little Liars </i>series--but not necessarily in a bad way. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>I loved the unique point-of-view and narration of the novel. Sutton, who has been killed, watches over her long-lost-twin sister Emma as she attempts to solve the mystery. The book is dark and full of intrigue, with a cast of interesting characters and and binding storyline.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre">H</span>owever, I didn't get the same satisfaction from <i>The Lying Game </i>as I did from <i>Pretty Little Liars</i>. The twists and turns in the novel were often hard to follow, and I felt myself becoming confused at times. I understand that Ms. Shepard wanted suspense and buildup in her novel, but the lack of information was sometimes frustrating when the plot became hard to follow.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><i>The Lying Game </i>was a great set up to future books in the series, where I hope more information will be disclosed. This unique, fascinating, and slightly creepy story makes for one quick, action-packed, juicy read. I can't wait for the sequel, <i>Never Have I Ever, </i>coming out this August.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Must-Read!<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><b>Check it Out!<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Don't Bother</span></b></div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-21775373031133595152011-01-24T16:01:00.000-08:002011-04-14T17:18:09.226-07:00Real Mermaids Don't Wear Toe Rings<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_K_pbpq0E5Og/TT98oiaDwTI/AAAAAAAADQs/8iZleF8O8-4/s1600/images.jpeg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 140px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_K_pbpq0E5Og/TT98oiaDwTI/AAAAAAAADQs/8iZleF8O8-4/s200/images.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566304700325937458" /></a><br /><b>Author: </b>Héléne Boudreau<div><b>Pages: </b>206</div><div><b>Published: </b>Sourcebooks Jabberwocky, 2010</div><div><b>Genre: </b>Contemporary fiction/Fantasy</div><div><b>Cover score: </b>A</div><div><b>Overall Grade: </b>A</div><div><br /></div><div>Jade is having the worst. Day. Ever. Not only does she get her first period and embarrass herself in front of the cutest boy in school, but she comes out of a supposed "soothing and relaxing" bath with a...mermaid tail? Jade soon discovers that she inherited her mermaid tendencies from her mother. But if Mom was a mermaid, then how did she drown? Jade is determined to solve the mystery--no matter how dangerous and difficult it might get. So how does a plus-sized, chocolate-addicted, aqua-phobic, half-mer go about doing that exactly? And how is she supposed to keep her massive secret from her best friend and adorable crush? One thing's for sure: this summer is about to get a whole lot more interesting...</div><div><br /></div><div><b>My thoughts: </b><i>Real Mermaids Don't Wear Toe Rings </i>was a clever and fresh take on a coming-of-age story. It was colorful, it was whimsical; it was witty and heart-warming and humorous. Jade made an empathetic main character: she was relatable and funny, and her narration was sincere and heartfelt. I felt like I could really get into her head and feel what she was feeling. I loved the supporting characters, including Jade's dad, her best friend Cori, and her crush Luke. They were all interesting and unique.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>The plot was fast-paced and easy to follow. I literally whizzed through this book in a day. The story had perfect amounts of fantasy, romance, and adventure, the action was simple (even though I wish there had been more buildup!), and I loved all of the useful mermaid background information. Ms. Boudreau clearly went above and beyond in building her story and characters. Plus, I loved the chocolate mug cake recipe in the back of the book--I will DEFINITELY be trying that out!!</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Creative, clever, and sweet, <i>Real Mermaids Don't Wear Toe Rings </i>is a fresh twist on a common plot. A middle grade girl must-read! </div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Must-Read!<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Check it Out!<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Don't Bother</span></b></div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-70778628208722782562011-01-22T13:27:00.001-08:002011-01-23T10:04:24.836-08:00Jillian Larkin Interview<img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 146px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_K_pbpq0E5Og/TTxtPDqasfI/AAAAAAAADQU/IKSK4cMQidQ/s200/Jillian%2BLarkin%2Bphoto_Credit%2BCraig%2BHothem.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565443344971772402" /><br /><br />I'd like to welcome Jillian Larkin, author of <i><a href="http://bookwormbooklovers.blogspot.com/2010/12/vixen.html">Vixen</a> </i>(one of my favorite books of 2010!)<div>------------------</div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>Hi, Jillian! To start off: what was the inspiration behind <i>Vixen</i>? </div><div><b>Jillian: </b>I'm a huge film nerd, so a lot of my inspiration comes from movies. One of my favorite films is <i>Annie Hall</i>. I think Annie is such a fantastic character. She's smart, funny, and the lady pulls off suits like it's her job. Her <i>actual </i>job as a nightclub singer helped spark the inspiration for Gloria and her story.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><i>Splendor in the Grass </i>is another big inspiration. It's a gorgeous film that takes place in the 1920s and deals with some very heavy, modern issues. It helped me realize that being a teenager girl back in the Jazz Ages wasn't as different from being one in contemporary times as one might think.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>What drew you to writing a book set in the 1920s?</div><div><b>Jillian: </b>I've been in love with the Roaring Twenties practically since before I could remember. I was <i>obsessed </i>with the film <i>Thoroughly Modern Millie </i>as a kid and forced my family to watch it with me repeatedly. I've always admired the independence and strength flappers showed and it continues to inspire me. Also writing about gorgeous jazz, fantastic slang, and sparkly dresses is deliciously fun.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>If you could travel back in time, what era would you visit, and</div><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_K_pbpq0E5Og/TTxtcwgzYkI/AAAAAAAADQc/r6eU74p8x6c/s200/images.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565443580349342274" /><div> why?</div><div><b>Jillian: </b>Would it be too boring and predictable of me to say the 1920s? I really would love to spend and evening at the Cotton Club listening to Fletcher Henderson and his orchestra play while dancing the Charleston. I would also like to visit the 1960s. That's another era with some amazing fashion, musicians, and historical events that would've been wonderful to witness firsthand.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>Which character in <i>Vixen </i>as your favorite to write about?</div><div><b>Jillian:</b> Aw, I love them all in different ways. Before I decided I wanted to be a writer, I planned to pursue musical theater. I still love to sing, but mainly in the shower, so it's nice to follow Gloria through her musical aspirations. Clara is how I <i>wish </i>I had been in high school. She's witty, smart, and unafraid to speak her mind. Despite the fact that she's lying about who she is, I think Clara knows herself best out of the three girls. I have fun with Lorraine too, since she can be silly in ways Gloria and Clara would never be.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>What's next for the characters of <i>Vixen </i>in the novel's upcoming sequel, <i>Ingenue</i>?</div><div><b>Jillian: </b>Each of the girls is thrust outside of her comfort zone in the next novel. Instead of the pampered ease to which they've grown accustomed, they try to make their way in new careers and settings. This novel takes place in New York rather than Chicago, which was easier on me research-wise since I live here. A new main character also comes into the fold.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>What YA book have you read recently and loved?</div><div><b>Jillian: </b>I recently read <i>Mockingjay </i>by Suzanne Collins for the second time because I read it too quickly the first time, haha. I just love that Suzanne Collins didn't go the easy District 13 = Good, Capital= Bad route. She acknowledges that no side is without corruption and it's staying true to your own values that matters.</div><div><br /></div><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_K_pbpq0E5Og/TTxtifVfGsI/AAAAAAAADQk/XDpAGwXx6q0/s200/Unknown.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565443678817688258" /><div><b>Bookworm: </b>What are your writing essentials (snacks, music, setting...)?</div><div><b>Jillian: </b>I have a special Flappers playlist with authentic 1920s as well as Jazz Age-influenced jazz that I always listen to while working on the series. I have three favorite Brooklyn coffee shops I alternate between which all have delicious iced coffee and vegetarian options. When I'm home, I lay on my bed, bend my knees, and write with my computer in my lap. It's probably terrible for my neck but great for inspiration. :)</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>If <i>Vixen </i>were made into a movie, who would pick to play the main characters?</div><div><b>Jillian: </b>I think Emma Stone would be a fantastic Gloria. She's gorgeous, feisty, and she can even sing! For Clara I could see Dianna Agron from <i>Glee </i>or Mia Wasikowska. Lorraine's tougher..maybe Troian Avery Bellisario? She's got the right kind of angular beauty.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bookworm: </b>If you could be any one of the characters for a day, who would you choose?</div><div><b>Jillian: </b>It depends on which day--there are certain times in <i>Vixen </i>when I wouldn't want to be any of them! But I would love to spend a day living Clara's fabulous old New York life.</div><div>------------------</div><div>Thanks so much, Jillian! Check out the <i>Flappers </i>website <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.TheFlappersBooks.com">here</a>, where you can see the (gorgeousamazingwonderful) book trailer and Flapper-ize yourself!</div><div><br /></div><div>Make sure to check out Jillian's upcoming blog tour stops, too:</div><div>Jan. 23-<a href="http://thebookscout.blogspot.com/">The Book Scout</a></div><div>Jan. 24-<a href="http://bloggers-heart-books.blogspot.com/">Bloggers Heart Books </a></div><div>Jan. 25-<a href="http://daisychainbookreviews.blogspot.com/">Daisy Chain Book Reviews</a></div><div>Jan. 26-<a href="http://www.moonlightbookreviews.com/">Moonlight Book Reviews</a></div><div>Jan. 27-<a href="http://www.teenreads.com/">Teen Reads</a></div><!--StartFragment--><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria; mso-bidi-Times New Roman&quot;;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language: EN-USfont-family:&quot;;font-size:12.0pt;"> </span></i><!--EndFragment-->Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-9645485872994227722011-01-20T14:58:00.000-08:002011-04-14T17:17:12.926-07:00Anna and the French Kiss<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_K_pbpq0E5Og/TTtLvWSzr5I/AAAAAAAADQM/eUvpyrfa0WU/s1600/images.jpeg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_K_pbpq0E5Og/TTtLvWSzr5I/AAAAAAAADQM/eUvpyrfa0WU/s200/images.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565125041356779410" /></a><br /><b>Author: </b>Stephanie Perkins<div><b>Pages: </b>375</div><div><b>Published: </b>Dutton, December 2010</div><div><b>Genre: </b>Contemporary fiction/Romance</div><div><b>Cover score: </b>B-</div><div><b>Overall Grade: </b>A</div><div><br /></div><div>Anna's life in Atlanta was perfect, until she was shipped off to American boarding school in Paris, France, with no French skills, no friends, and her swoon-worthy crush stuck back home. Adapting isn't easy, but soon enough, aspiring film critic Anna finds her place in the new city with a new group of friends and the discovery of French cinema. Things especially start to look up when Anna meets Etienne St. Clair, a gorgeous, charming guy--with a girlfriend. Anna's year in Paris is filled with romantic near-misses: but by the end of the year, will Anna get her French kiss? After all, Paris <i>is </i>the city of love...</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>My thoughts: </b>To me, the star of this book was the cast of well-developed, likable, and realistic characters. I felt like I was involved in Anna's group of friends, and, being a high school student myself, I really appreciated how life-like they were, really acting like a group of teenagers. Although I often found Anna whiny, I grew to really like and understand her point of view, and, of course, St. Clair made a dreamy love interest. The thing I appreciated most was that St. Clair wasn't your obvious Mr. Perfect: he was quirky and witty and sarcastic, which made him all the more lovable. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><i>Anna and the French Kiss </i>didn't really have a structured plotline, but it was set up as more of a "year-in-the-life" story, which I found refreshing and easy-to-follow. The novel was set against a Parisian backdrop, and I loved all the quirky little details that Ms. Perkins included: the sights (Notre Dame! The french cemetary! The funky little Parisian cinemas!), the food (baguette! panini! hot chocolate!), and the people. It was a little like a vacation without going anywhere.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>I only wish that there had been more culture and Paris in the novel than romance. After the first 300 pages or so, I was getting tired of and confused by all of Anna and St. Clair's back-and-forthing. There was one too many twists-and-turns, which weren't necessary, as the ending was quite predictable.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>However, <i>Anna and the French Kiss </i>is a fun, absorbing, frothy, fresh, and down-to-earth romance with humor and a genuine, sincere heroine that readers will relate to. If this is a delicious French picnic, then <i>bon appetite</i>! This is one delicious read that you don't want to miss.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Must-Read!<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Check it Out!<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Don't Bother</span></b></div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236545596677362245.post-81606781911838263792011-01-17T12:54:00.001-08:002011-01-18T18:45:03.639-08:00E. Lockhart Guest Blog and Giveaway!<img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 158px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_K_pbpq0E5Og/TTZPUzJNq9I/AAAAAAAADP0/Q5HyCK0nhbg/s200/E%2BLockhart%2BCredit%2BHeather%2BWeston.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563721608407657426" /><br />Welcome to E. (which stands for Emily!) Lockhart, the author of the fabulously funny <i>Ruby Oliver </i>series! <div>---------</div><div>Hi--and thanks so much for having me on Bookworm Readers to spread the word about my new book, <i>Real Live Boyfriends</i>. It's book four of the Ruby Oliver novels, the series that started with <i>The Boyfriend List</i>. All the scoop on the book and a preview chapter can be found <a href="http://www.emilylockhart.com/books/real-live-boyfriends">here</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>One of my favorite things to do as a writer is to title chapters. I loved chapter titles as a kid, especially if they were good ones. Reading them let you know what delicious things were in store. I still love them as an adult. Good ones will make me buy a book.</div><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 138px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_K_pbpq0E5Og/TTT0vPt-bDI/AAAAAAAADPk/qwqUZVSSAYE/s200/59609_lockhart_e.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563340532219800626" /><div><br /></div><div>A.A. Milne wrote the most wonderful chapter titles. "In Which Eeyore Loses and Tail and Pooh Finds One." What could be better than that?</div><div><br /></div><div>In the Ruby stories, I've had a great time playing around with these. In the first book, each chapter was named after a boy on the boyfriend list that ends up ruining Roo's reputation and losing her all her friends. In the second novel, <i>The Boy Book</i>, each chapter is named after a section of the notebook Roo and her friends keep, chock full of spurious advice on "The Care and Ownership of Boobs" or "Why You Want the Guy You Can't Have."</div><div><br /></div><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 129px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_K_pbpq0E5Og/TTZPpNFwXgI/AAAAAAAADP8/loyKt2qCoRM/s200/images.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563721958969859586" /><div>In <i>The Treasure Map of Boys</i>, each chapter is a sentence that begins with "I". "I am a Reluctant Bodyguard". "I Uncover the Secret Mental Health of Hair Bands." And so on.</div><div><br /></div><div>For the final book, <i>Real Live Boyfriends</i>, I was somewhat stumped for a chapter title gimmick, until a librarian I know only on Twitter said something about how Roo's hysterical tendencies called to mind the hyperbolic headlines of Victorian scandal sheets. Aha! So all the chapter titles in <i>Real Live Boyfriends </i>have exclamation points, as if to evoke "Murder in the Museum Gallery!" or "Adultery on the Upper East Side!" But instead they say things like "Distraction Caused by Bare Chest!" or "Emotional Breakdown in the Parking Lot!"</div><div><br /></div><div>They were very fun to write.</div><div>--------------<br /><div><br /></div><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 140px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_K_pbpq0E5Og/TTT0pkQZqYI/AAAAAAAADPc/mj7AhiXYva4/s200/images.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563340434653686146" /><div>In honor of the release of the final book in the <i>Ruby Oliver </i>series, Random House Children's Books is providing me with <b>6 </b>copies of the concluding novel, <i><b>Real Live Boyfriends</b>,</i><i> </i>to give away!</div><div><div><br /></div><div>Entering is simple, as always:</div><div><br /></div><div>1) You must be a follower and you must live in the US (sorry, international friends!)</div><div>2) Name and email address below</div><div>3) Extra entries can be obtained by blogging/sidebar link (+2 for each mentioned)</div><div><br /></div><div>Our 6 lucky winners will be chosen on <b>February 14, 2011</b>, so enter now!</div><div><br /></div><div>Check out Emily's other stops on her tour (you won't regret it--she's quite hilarious):</div><div><br /></div><div>January 10th: <a href="http://totalbookaholic.blogspot.com/">Confessions of a Bookaholic</a></div><div>January 11th: <a href="http://randomactsofreading.wordpress.com/">Random Acts of Reading</a></div><div>January 12th: <a href="http://booksonthehouse.com/">Books on the House </a></div><div>January 13th: <a href="http://figment.com/">Figment</a></div><div>January 14th: <a href="http://thebookbutterfly.com/">Book Butterfly</a></div><div>January 19th: <a href="http://www.robinadelson.blogspot.com/">Robin's Roundup</a></div></div></div>Bookwormnoreply@blogger.com14