Book: The Healer's Apprentice by Melanie Dickerson
Age-range: 10 and up
A young adult historical Christian fairy tale re-telling. No kidding. That is what this book is! And it's really good. The end sort of lost momentum, but I love the way she used the outline of Sleeping Beauty to inform this book. Definitely one I would recommend.
Happy reading!
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, December 30, 2011
December Book #10
Book: Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George
Age-range: 10 and up
A great re-telling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses. Short and sweet, but amazingly done, as all of Ms. George's books are. I think it's interesting how often the princesses are named after flowers in re-tellings. Why is that, I wonder.
Happy reading!
Age-range: 10 and up
A great re-telling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses. Short and sweet, but amazingly done, as all of Ms. George's books are. I think it's interesting how often the princesses are named after flowers in re-tellings. Why is that, I wonder.
Happy reading!
December Book #9
Book: Entwined by Heather Dixon
Age-range: 10 and up
This is hands-down the absolute best re-telling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses I have ever read. That's saying a lot. The Twelve Dancing Princesses is one of my favorite fairy tales and I read every book I can inspired by it. This is the very first one, of dozens, that has given each and every sister a distinct personality. It was amazing. I highly recommend it.
Happy reading!
Age-range: 10 and up
This is hands-down the absolute best re-telling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses I have ever read. That's saying a lot. The Twelve Dancing Princesses is one of my favorite fairy tales and I read every book I can inspired by it. This is the very first one, of dozens, that has given each and every sister a distinct personality. It was amazing. I highly recommend it.
Happy reading!
Friday, December 23, 2011
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
December Book #6
Book: Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones
Age-range: 8 and up
I had a lot of issues with this book that I won't get into. It was interesting, but I won't buy it or read it again.
Age-range: 8 and up
I had a lot of issues with this book that I won't get into. It was interesting, but I won't buy it or read it again.
Friday, December 16, 2011
December Book #5
Book: Academy 7 by Anne Osterlund
Age-range: 10 and up
This is a "light" science fiction book that would be a great read for a boy or a girl. I adore this story and I really can't explain why. In fact, I liked it so much it inspired me to start working on my own science fiction novel.
Happy reading!
Age-range: 10 and up
This is a "light" science fiction book that would be a great read for a boy or a girl. I adore this story and I really can't explain why. In fact, I liked it so much it inspired me to start working on my own science fiction novel.
Happy reading!
Thursday, December 15, 2011
December Book #4
Book: Breadcrumbs by Anne Ursu
Age-range: 10 and up
You would think that a book entitled Breadcrumbs would be a re-telling of Hansel and Gretel. You would be wrong. This book is, in fact, a re-telling of Hans Christian Anderson's Snow Queen. It's a story about Hazel and Jack and they're best friends. And they're both in 5th grade and they're both dealing with having to grow up and face the real world and stop being so fanciful.
This book deals with some pretty serious issues: Hazel's father left and is getting remarried, Jack's mom has depression (implied, but never expressed), Hazel is bullied at school and feels like she doesn't fit in anywhere, and Jack is her only friend. As I was reading this book I was thinking how sad it was and yet how hopeful. Because, as someone once said, (Chesterton, I think), fairy tales don't tell you that dragons exist, they tell you that dragons can be defeated. So this book, while Hazel has to travel to the Snow Queen's castle and rescue Jack, is, at it's core, a great big book of hope.
Happy reading!
P.S. Carlye should read this, Carianne (after you do, of course).
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
December Book #3
Book: Exile by Anne Osterlund
Age-range: 12 and up
This is the sequel to Aurelia, a book I read a couple of years ago. That book was really slow-going, but picked up speed at the end. This book was just the opposite. The first half was really exciting, but then nothing really happened. Apparently this is the second book in a trilogy, but there was really nothing to this book. She was running from death threats the entire time and... that was it. The story ended with her running away to another country. Couldn't she have done that 100 pages earlier?
My favorite book by Ms. Osterlund, by far, is Academy 7. And now I want to re-read it!
Happy reading!
Age-range: 12 and up
This is the sequel to Aurelia, a book I read a couple of years ago. That book was really slow-going, but picked up speed at the end. This book was just the opposite. The first half was really exciting, but then nothing really happened. Apparently this is the second book in a trilogy, but there was really nothing to this book. She was running from death threats the entire time and... that was it. The story ended with her running away to another country. Couldn't she have done that 100 pages earlier?
My favorite book by Ms. Osterlund, by far, is Academy 7. And now I want to re-read it!
Happy reading!
Friday, December 9, 2011
December Book #2
Book: Secondhand Charm by Julie Berry
Age-range: 13 and up
I don't think this is necessarily a good title for this book. It sounds so simple, so trite. This book is an amazing feat of storytelling and, though the author gives you all the information the protagonist has, you're always surprised at what happens next. There are great characters and (for me at least) you want the world to be a more magical place where things like this really happen. All I can say, without giving anything away, is that I wish I had some of my own charms!
I definitely liked it a lot. I find Ms. Berry's books to be quite good and I wait with anticipation for her next one.
Happy reading!
Age-range: 13 and up
I don't think this is necessarily a good title for this book. It sounds so simple, so trite. This book is an amazing feat of storytelling and, though the author gives you all the information the protagonist has, you're always surprised at what happens next. There are great characters and (for me at least) you want the world to be a more magical place where things like this really happen. All I can say, without giving anything away, is that I wish I had some of my own charms!
I definitely liked it a lot. I find Ms. Berry's books to be quite good and I wait with anticipation for her next one.
Happy reading!
Friday, December 2, 2011
December Book #1
Book: Chime by Franny Billingsley
Age-range: 16 and up
The first few chapters are a little hard to get into, but once you get used to the narrator's self-loathing and fall into the cadence of the language it's quite beautiful. There were a few metaphors that were gorgeous, but pulled me out of the story as I tried to work out the relevance they had to the story.
This was a good book with lots of surprises, but lots of hints along the way to discover those surprises. I also love the "assignment" of animals for a few of the characters. It made me think of my sister Heidi.
Happy reading!
Age-range: 16 and up
The first few chapters are a little hard to get into, but once you get used to the narrator's self-loathing and fall into the cadence of the language it's quite beautiful. There were a few metaphors that were gorgeous, but pulled me out of the story as I tried to work out the relevance they had to the story.
This was a good book with lots of surprises, but lots of hints along the way to discover those surprises. I also love the "assignment" of animals for a few of the characters. It made me think of my sister Heidi.
Happy reading!
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
November Book #5
Book: Faery Tale: One Woman's Search for Enchantment in a Modern World by Signe Pike
Age-range: 13 and up
I'm not going to lie, this was not the book I wanted it to be. Don't get me wrong, it was interesting, and Ms. Pike's writing was like reading letters from a close friend. But what I was looking for was something to help me bring some of the magic, the whimsy, back into my life. I feel like I've lost touch with that side of myself and I'm a worse person for it.
If you're at all interested in the history of fairies or the modern sightings of them (who knew Mexico had fairies!) then this book is for you. If, however, you're like me and are looking for some way to bring some fairy magic into your life, this isn't a how-to guide.
Happy reading!
Age-range: 13 and up
I'm not going to lie, this was not the book I wanted it to be. Don't get me wrong, it was interesting, and Ms. Pike's writing was like reading letters from a close friend. But what I was looking for was something to help me bring some of the magic, the whimsy, back into my life. I feel like I've lost touch with that side of myself and I'm a worse person for it.
If you're at all interested in the history of fairies or the modern sightings of them (who knew Mexico had fairies!) then this book is for you. If, however, you're like me and are looking for some way to bring some fairy magic into your life, this isn't a how-to guide.
Happy reading!
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
November Book #4
Book: The Amaranth Enchantment by Julie Berry
Age-range: 10 and up
This is an excellent book, especially considering that it's a debut novel. Ms. Berry takes the story of Cinderella, gives a twist here, a tuck there and voila, you have The Amaranth Enchantment. I really loved the way it ended. I appreciated that it wasn't your typical happily ever after, although I do believe everyone who deserved to be happy was. I think my nieces (and sisters) would definitely like it.
Happy reading!
Age-range: 10 and up
This is an excellent book, especially considering that it's a debut novel. Ms. Berry takes the story of Cinderella, gives a twist here, a tuck there and voila, you have The Amaranth Enchantment. I really loved the way it ended. I appreciated that it wasn't your typical happily ever after, although I do believe everyone who deserved to be happy was. I think my nieces (and sisters) would definitely like it.
Happy reading!
Monday, November 14, 2011
November Book #3
Book: Matchless by Gregory Maguire
Age-range: 0 and up
Do you find the Hans Christian Andersen story of The Little Match Girl depressing? Read this. It makes the story seem so much happier (although the little girl still dies). I had heard of this book before, but I didn't realize that it had been written to be read aloud on NPR. I would love to hear the original reading Gregory Maguire did. This is a great little Christmas story, although I still think it's pretty sad.
Happy reading!
Age-range: 0 and up
Do you find the Hans Christian Andersen story of The Little Match Girl depressing? Read this. It makes the story seem so much happier (although the little girl still dies). I had heard of this book before, but I didn't realize that it had been written to be read aloud on NPR. I would love to hear the original reading Gregory Maguire did. This is a great little Christmas story, although I still think it's pretty sad.
Happy reading!
November Book #2
Book: When Rose Wakes by Christopher Golden
Age-range: 16 and up
This was an interesting re-telling of Sleeping Beauty. It's not a book I would recommend to anyone young, as it has some things in it to make it questionable for them. I really loved the writing and the imagination used in implementing the Sleeping Beauty tale. It seems open for another book, so I look forward to that.
Happy reading!
Age-range: 16 and up
This was an interesting re-telling of Sleeping Beauty. It's not a book I would recommend to anyone young, as it has some things in it to make it questionable for them. I really loved the writing and the imagination used in implementing the Sleeping Beauty tale. It seems open for another book, so I look forward to that.
Happy reading!
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
November Book #1
Book: Selkie Girl by Laurie Brooks
Age-range: 10 and up
The problem with this book is description. Way too much description. Entire chapters of description. I got to the point where I was just reading the first and last paragraph of each chapter because that's where all the forward motion was. So, that being said, I liked this book, but it's a LONG read for only being a couple of hundred pages long.
Age-range: 10 and up
The problem with this book is description. Way too much description. Entire chapters of description. I got to the point where I was just reading the first and last paragraph of each chapter because that's where all the forward motion was. So, that being said, I liked this book, but it's a LONG read for only being a couple of hundred pages long.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
October Book #1
Book: Cloaked in Red by Vivian Vande Velde
Age-range: 12 and up
I've had an obsession with Little Red Riding Hood lately. I'm not really sure why, as Ms. Vande Velde points out in her introduction, it breaks almost every good story rule. In this book she re-tells the story a half dozen times. They're all interesting, but my favorite is the one that she tells from the cloaks point of view.
Happy reading!
Age-range: 12 and up
I've had an obsession with Little Red Riding Hood lately. I'm not really sure why, as Ms. Vande Velde points out in her introduction, it breaks almost every good story rule. In this book she re-tells the story a half dozen times. They're all interesting, but my favorite is the one that she tells from the cloaks point of view.
Happy reading!
Friday, September 30, 2011
September Book #8
Book: Calamity Jack by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale, illustrated by Nathan Hale
Age-range: 0 and up
This is the sequel to Rapunzel's Revenge and it's a good one. We return back to the big city with Jack and Rapunzel. The first book was a western, this one is more steam-punk.
Jack and Rapunzel, with the help of Freddie, have to defeat the army of giant ants, rescue Jack's mother, and help get the city out of the giant's control. And there's a little bit of romance on the way.
It's funny to me because this one, though I thought it would be more of a "boy" book, is actually a little more girly than the first one. Once again, this is a graphic novel/comic book. I definitely recommend it. Happy reading!
Age-range: 0 and up
This is the sequel to Rapunzel's Revenge and it's a good one. We return back to the big city with Jack and Rapunzel. The first book was a western, this one is more steam-punk.
Jack and Rapunzel, with the help of Freddie, have to defeat the army of giant ants, rescue Jack's mother, and help get the city out of the giant's control. And there's a little bit of romance on the way.
It's funny to me because this one, though I thought it would be more of a "boy" book, is actually a little more girly than the first one. Once again, this is a graphic novel/comic book. I definitely recommend it. Happy reading!
September Book #7
Book: Rapunzel's Revenge by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale, illustrated by Nathan Hale
Age-range: 0 and up
This is a book I've bought for, and recommended to, countless people, but I have to confess something: I'd never actually read it. I know, I know, that's horrible! So when we were at the library the other day I made sure to check this one out. And I loved it! (As I knew I would.)
It's the story of Rapunzel, with a Western twist. She uses her long hair as lassos to whip bad guys into shape. With the help of Jack (of Beanstalk fame), she's able to defeat Mother Gothel and rescue her mother and the kingdom.
This is a graphic novel, which is like a comic book except... okay I don't know the difference. One sounds fancier, that's all I know! This is a great book for boys or girls; reluctant readers, or voracious ones. It's a great story and I highly recommend it. Happy reading!
Age-range: 0 and up
This is a book I've bought for, and recommended to, countless people, but I have to confess something: I'd never actually read it. I know, I know, that's horrible! So when we were at the library the other day I made sure to check this one out. And I loved it! (As I knew I would.)
It's the story of Rapunzel, with a Western twist. She uses her long hair as lassos to whip bad guys into shape. With the help of Jack (of Beanstalk fame), she's able to defeat Mother Gothel and rescue her mother and the kingdom.
This is a graphic novel, which is like a comic book except... okay I don't know the difference. One sounds fancier, that's all I know! This is a great book for boys or girls; reluctant readers, or voracious ones. It's a great story and I highly recommend it. Happy reading!
Monday, September 26, 2011
September Book #6
Book: The Secret Lives of Princesses by Philippe Lechermeier, illustrated by Rebecca Dautremer
Age-range: 0 and up
This book has been on my radar since it was released in the US last year. I have a hard time justifying buying picture books that I know my sons will have little or no interest in, however, so I just now got around to checking it out from the library.
It's amazing!
So whimsical and beautifully illustrated. I would recommend it to any princess (young or old). My favorite was Princess Paige. Happy reading!
Age-range: 0 and up
This book has been on my radar since it was released in the US last year. I have a hard time justifying buying picture books that I know my sons will have little or no interest in, however, so I just now got around to checking it out from the library.
It's amazing!
So whimsical and beautifully illustrated. I would recommend it to any princess (young or old). My favorite was Princess Paige. Happy reading!
Thursday, September 22, 2011
And I'm Done
Okay, I've finally finished back-blogging all of my pre-blog book reviews. You will no longer be receiving dozens of posts from me a day.
I promise.
Thanks for your patience!
I promise.
Thanks for your patience!
September Book #5
Book: Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah
Age-range: 16 and up
Lesson learned: don't pick a book because you think the title sounds whimsical and fun.
This book made me cry like a freaking baby!
Age-range: 16 and up
Lesson learned: don't pick a book because you think the title sounds whimsical and fun.
This book made me cry like a freaking baby!
Monday, September 19, 2011
September Book #4
Book: The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making by Catherynne M. Valente
Age-range: 6 and up
Okay, first of all this book gets an award for best freaking title ever! I have to be totally honest when I say the title and cover art were my sole reasons for buying this book. I was not disappointed in the least. This has been one of the most creative books I've read in a long time. There were so many great lines that I need to read it again just to make sure I saw all of them.
If you have even a passing desire to visit Fairyland then you should definitely read this book. The lead girl, September, is a wonderful protagonist and the narrator, as s/he openly admits, is only there to please. Full of whimsy and quirky characters, but with just enough serious to make you think, this is one of the best books I've read all year.
So why are you still sitting there? Go get it and read it! Happy reading!
Age-range: 6 and up
Okay, first of all this book gets an award for best freaking title ever! I have to be totally honest when I say the title and cover art were my sole reasons for buying this book. I was not disappointed in the least. This has been one of the most creative books I've read in a long time. There were so many great lines that I need to read it again just to make sure I saw all of them.
If you have even a passing desire to visit Fairyland then you should definitely read this book. The lead girl, September, is a wonderful protagonist and the narrator, as s/he openly admits, is only there to please. Full of whimsy and quirky characters, but with just enough serious to make you think, this is one of the best books I've read all year.
So why are you still sitting there? Go get it and read it! Happy reading!
Friday, September 16, 2011
September Book #3
Book: The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows
Age-range: 13 and up
First of all I would like to point out that NO ONE told me this book was historical fiction set just after World War II. Had I known that fact I wouldn't have put off reading it for so long because I thought the title was stupid (I still do) and I hate books written in letters (this one is an exception).
I really loved this book. It was so very creatively done and so very beautifully written. There have been several times when I've gone through WWII phases and read every book I could on the subject. This is a lovely addition to that and has something that most others don't have: a British protagonist. I would absolutely recommend it.
Happy reading!
Age-range: 13 and up
First of all I would like to point out that NO ONE told me this book was historical fiction set just after World War II. Had I known that fact I wouldn't have put off reading it for so long because I thought the title was stupid (I still do) and I hate books written in letters (this one is an exception).
I really loved this book. It was so very creatively done and so very beautifully written. There have been several times when I've gone through WWII phases and read every book I could on the subject. This is a lovely addition to that and has something that most others don't have: a British protagonist. I would absolutely recommend it.
Happy reading!
September Book #2
Book: The Girl Who Married a Lion and Other Tales From Africa by Alexander McCall Smith
Age-range: 0 and up
As with any book of short stories there are hits and misses. Some of these were really interesting and others seemed like huge chunks were missing. It's by no means a must-read, but if you're interested in Africa, folklore, or both then this is a book you might want to check out!
Age-range: 0 and up
As with any book of short stories there are hits and misses. Some of these were really interesting and others seemed like huge chunks were missing. It's by no means a must-read, but if you're interested in Africa, folklore, or both then this is a book you might want to check out!
A Little FYI
Okay, so I have come across some reviews I wrote from the past. That's right, before I had this blog I still wrote myself reviews so I would remember why I liked a book (or didn't). I've decided to add those to the blog, but to put them under their original dates, just for my own sake. That way all my "reviews" are in one place! This is a little FYI in case you were wondering what the heck is going on.
Friday, September 2, 2011
September Book #1
Book: A Tale Dark and Grimm by Adam Gidwitz
Age-range: 13 and up
This book is bloody and gory and grim (get it?). Okay, so it's not THAT gory, but it definitely keeps all the bits and pieces about severed limbs, etc. in the story that were in the original tales. What I really loved about this book is the fact that Mr. Gidwitz took several obscure tales and wove them all into the story of Hansel and Gretel. Genius!
There are author asides throughout the book just like in The Princess Bride. They definitely add to the charm of the book. It's nice to know that he doesn't take his interpretation of the tales (or himself) too seriously. If you have young ones who are interested in fairy tales this is a great one for boys or girls. I would suggest, however, that you read it first and see if it's too much. If you're an adult then there's nothing that should stop you!
Happy reading!
Age-range: 13 and up
This book is bloody and gory and grim (get it?). Okay, so it's not THAT gory, but it definitely keeps all the bits and pieces about severed limbs, etc. in the story that were in the original tales. What I really loved about this book is the fact that Mr. Gidwitz took several obscure tales and wove them all into the story of Hansel and Gretel. Genius!
There are author asides throughout the book just like in The Princess Bride. They definitely add to the charm of the book. It's nice to know that he doesn't take his interpretation of the tales (or himself) too seriously. If you have young ones who are interested in fairy tales this is a great one for boys or girls. I would suggest, however, that you read it first and see if it's too much. If you're an adult then there's nothing that should stop you!
Happy reading!
Thursday, August 25, 2011
August Book #3
Book: The Peach Keeper by Sarah Addison Allen
Age-range: 16 and up
It's no secret that I adore Ms. Allen's books. The Sugar Queen is one of my favorite gifts and Garden Spells is everything I had wanted Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman to be, but it wasn't. Her books were my first foray into the genre of magic realism and I will be forever grateful to her for that.
This book came out earlier this year and I have literally been trying every week to check it out from the library. Yesterday I FINALLY lucked out. I actually squealed when I saw it on the shelf. The boys were cooperative enough to let me finish it all in one day. I would have loved to read it all in one sitting, but that was just not realistic.
As always, there is magic laced throughout the story. Superstitions that are real. Women and men who don't realize what they really want or need out of life. And, as always, its set in the south in North Carolina. I love her books and this was no exception.
In case you are wondering, here are her books in order of how much I love them:
Age-range: 16 and up
It's no secret that I adore Ms. Allen's books. The Sugar Queen is one of my favorite gifts and Garden Spells is everything I had wanted Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman to be, but it wasn't. Her books were my first foray into the genre of magic realism and I will be forever grateful to her for that.
This book came out earlier this year and I have literally been trying every week to check it out from the library. Yesterday I FINALLY lucked out. I actually squealed when I saw it on the shelf. The boys were cooperative enough to let me finish it all in one day. I would have loved to read it all in one sitting, but that was just not realistic.
As always, there is magic laced throughout the story. Superstitions that are real. Women and men who don't realize what they really want or need out of life. And, as always, its set in the south in North Carolina. I love her books and this was no exception.
In case you are wondering, here are her books in order of how much I love them:
The Sugar Queen
Garden Spells
The Peach Keeper
The Girl Who Chased the Moon
Happy reading!
August Book #2
Book: The Secret History of Tom Trueheart by Ian Beck
Age-range: 8 and up
This book was recommended to me by a friend and I'm so glad she told me about it. I may never have come across it otherwise. And, incidentally, I think it's a book that my nieces and nephews would love.
It's a little hard to explain the plot, but I'll try. There's a Land of Stories where all of the stories written about in books are actually played out before they are written. The Trueheart family is one of the last great adventuring families. The family has 7 boys, 6 of them have names that are variants of Jack, after their father, and the youngest one is named Tom. There's no explanation as to why this is. Anyway, each of the older brothers goes on an adventure into tales that you will undoubtedly recognize. But something happens and they disappear before their stories can be finished. Tom, who has just turned 12, is sent out to rescue them.
It's a cute, clever story that is great for a younger audience. I love the idea and I just found out there is at least one other book set in this world. So, if you read it let me know what you (or your kids) think. Happy reading!
Age-range: 8 and up
This book was recommended to me by a friend and I'm so glad she told me about it. I may never have come across it otherwise. And, incidentally, I think it's a book that my nieces and nephews would love.
It's a little hard to explain the plot, but I'll try. There's a Land of Stories where all of the stories written about in books are actually played out before they are written. The Trueheart family is one of the last great adventuring families. The family has 7 boys, 6 of them have names that are variants of Jack, after their father, and the youngest one is named Tom. There's no explanation as to why this is. Anyway, each of the older brothers goes on an adventure into tales that you will undoubtedly recognize. But something happens and they disappear before their stories can be finished. Tom, who has just turned 12, is sent out to rescue them.
It's a cute, clever story that is great for a younger audience. I love the idea and I just found out there is at least one other book set in this world. So, if you read it let me know what you (or your kids) think. Happy reading!
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
August Book #1
Book: Lament: The Faerie Queen's Deception by Maggie Stiefvater
Age-range: 14 and up
This is one of those books that has been on my to-read list pretty much since it came out. I just now had the opportunity and the time to read it and I'm glad that I did. There was a lot of fairy lore in this book that I hadn't heard of before. I'm not sure if that's because the author made it up or because it was out of my realm of research. Either way I really loved it and found it interesting.
I always like when modern fairies stay true to the way they were viewed in, say, Shakespeare's day. They aren't sweet, wish-granting women; they're vindictive, spiteful, trouble-makers.
And, I hope I won't spoil anything by saying this, but I really love realistic endings. This book didn't try to make sure that everyone got everything that they needed/deserved. Instead it ended the way it was supposed to end. I liked that.
Also, I think there's a lesson to be learned from the female protagonist. In the book she realizes that if she just believes she can do something she can. I think that's true 90% of the time in the real world. Confidence goes a long way to encouraging talent.
Happy reading!
Age-range: 14 and up
This is one of those books that has been on my to-read list pretty much since it came out. I just now had the opportunity and the time to read it and I'm glad that I did. There was a lot of fairy lore in this book that I hadn't heard of before. I'm not sure if that's because the author made it up or because it was out of my realm of research. Either way I really loved it and found it interesting.
I always like when modern fairies stay true to the way they were viewed in, say, Shakespeare's day. They aren't sweet, wish-granting women; they're vindictive, spiteful, trouble-makers.
And, I hope I won't spoil anything by saying this, but I really love realistic endings. This book didn't try to make sure that everyone got everything that they needed/deserved. Instead it ended the way it was supposed to end. I liked that.
Also, I think there's a lesson to be learned from the female protagonist. In the book she realizes that if she just believes she can do something she can. I think that's true 90% of the time in the real world. Confidence goes a long way to encouraging talent.
Happy reading!
Sunday, July 31, 2011
July Book Review #6
Book: Writing to Change the World by Mary Pipher
Age-range: 16 and up
I previously read Ms. Pipher's marvelous work Reviving Ophelia and enjoyed it immensely. I'm not sure why I was drawn to this book. It was, after all, primarily for non-fiction writers and I am definitely not one of those. After having read it, however, I think that any writer - any person - should read it. I may not agree with everything she believes or says, but I think her overall goal was remarkable and commendable. I am hoping to implement the lessons learned into my fiction. You should definitely read it, if for no other reason than the quotes in it are really great.
Happy reading!
Age-range: 16 and up
I previously read Ms. Pipher's marvelous work Reviving Ophelia and enjoyed it immensely. I'm not sure why I was drawn to this book. It was, after all, primarily for non-fiction writers and I am definitely not one of those. After having read it, however, I think that any writer - any person - should read it. I may not agree with everything she believes or says, but I think her overall goal was remarkable and commendable. I am hoping to implement the lessons learned into my fiction. You should definitely read it, if for no other reason than the quotes in it are really great.
Happy reading!
July Book Review #5
Book: Dragon Slippers by Jessica Day George
Age-range: 8 and up
This is one of those books I've had on my to-be-read list practically forever. I finally got the opportunity and the time to read it! I've enjoyed other books by Ms. George previously and thought that this one might be good as well. You should know up front that I'm generally not one for dragon stories. They're often trite and one-dimensional. Not so with this one! I loved the way she altered the myth of dragons just slightly and made each of the ones we met have a very distinct personality. Her characters were well-done and there were several surprises along the way. Action-packed with only a hint of romance; perfect for a younger audience.
I think my nieces and nephews would all love this one! Happy reading!
Age-range: 8 and up
This is one of those books I've had on my to-be-read list practically forever. I finally got the opportunity and the time to read it! I've enjoyed other books by Ms. George previously and thought that this one might be good as well. You should know up front that I'm generally not one for dragon stories. They're often trite and one-dimensional. Not so with this one! I loved the way she altered the myth of dragons just slightly and made each of the ones we met have a very distinct personality. Her characters were well-done and there were several surprises along the way. Action-packed with only a hint of romance; perfect for a younger audience.
I think my nieces and nephews would all love this one! Happy reading!
Saturday, July 30, 2011
July Book Review #4
Book: Sisters Red by Jackson Pearce
Age-range: 16 and up
Very violent, but still pretty good. And the cover is super-awesome.
Age-range: 16 and up
Very violent, but still pretty good. And the cover is super-awesome.
Monday, July 18, 2011
July Book Review #3
Book: The Girl Who Could Fly by Victoria Forester
Age-range: 10 and up
My sister Heidi gave this book to me for my birthday. After reading the title my first thought was of the very cheesy movie The Boy Who Could Fly. Lucky for me (and Heidi) this book was WAY better.
This is the story of a girl, Piper McCloud, who just can't help but float when she's happy. Over time her floating turns to flying and her parents, who desperately cling to normalcy, try their best to stop it. After an all-too-public display of her abilities Piper is sent to a government facility. I won't say much more, I don't want to spoil the story.
What I liked: There was a lot of great imagery; the characters all had distinct personalities and voices; it was easy to get into and keep reading.
What I disliked: The names made me groan more than once (Piper McCloud; Bella Lovely; Ms. Hellion), they sort of gave themselves away most of the time and it felt a little like Ms. Forester was trying too hard to make the names be clever. I am also really sensitive to animal abuse and there were a few instances when I had to put the book down because of it.
All in all it was a great read, good for a boy or girl who likes adventures (and no romance). Happy reading!
Age-range: 10 and up
My sister Heidi gave this book to me for my birthday. After reading the title my first thought was of the very cheesy movie The Boy Who Could Fly. Lucky for me (and Heidi) this book was WAY better.
This is the story of a girl, Piper McCloud, who just can't help but float when she's happy. Over time her floating turns to flying and her parents, who desperately cling to normalcy, try their best to stop it. After an all-too-public display of her abilities Piper is sent to a government facility. I won't say much more, I don't want to spoil the story.
What I liked: There was a lot of great imagery; the characters all had distinct personalities and voices; it was easy to get into and keep reading.
What I disliked: The names made me groan more than once (Piper McCloud; Bella Lovely; Ms. Hellion), they sort of gave themselves away most of the time and it felt a little like Ms. Forester was trying too hard to make the names be clever. I am also really sensitive to animal abuse and there were a few instances when I had to put the book down because of it.
All in all it was a great read, good for a boy or girl who likes adventures (and no romance). Happy reading!
July Book Review #2
Book: Three Good Deeds by Vivian Vande Velde
Age-range: 8 and up
Okay, not great.
Age-range: 8 and up
Okay, not great.
Sunday, July 3, 2011
July Book Review #1
Book: A Hidden Magic by Vivian Vande Velde
Age-range: 8 and up
This is a very cute story about a king's daughter, a sleeping prince, a sorcerer, an Old Witch, and a few bad guys. It was a quick, easy read and I think some of my nieces and nephews might like it very much. I have always liked Ms. Vande Velde's work and this is no exception. I truly appreciate female protagonists who don't have all the answers, but are able to rely on themselves to find them in the end.
Happy reading!
Age-range: 8 and up
This is a very cute story about a king's daughter, a sleeping prince, a sorcerer, an Old Witch, and a few bad guys. It was a quick, easy read and I think some of my nieces and nephews might like it very much. I have always liked Ms. Vande Velde's work and this is no exception. I truly appreciate female protagonists who don't have all the answers, but are able to rely on themselves to find them in the end.
Happy reading!
Thursday, June 23, 2011
June Book Review #7
Book: The Secret Year by Jennifer R. Hubbard
Age-range: 16 and up
In the words of Thumper: If you can't say something nice, don't say nothing at all.
Age-range: 16 and up
In the words of Thumper: If you can't say something nice, don't say nothing at all.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
June Book Review #6
Book: Impossible by Nancy Werlin
Age-range: 15 and up
This book is based on the song "Scarborough Fair" by Simon and Garfunkel. Apparently Ms. Werlin really listened to the lyrics one day and realized how psychotic they were. A dozen years later voila! she had written this book.
Lucy Scarborough is a junior in high school with fantastic foster parents, an insane mother who's a bag-lady, a best friend named Zach, and a date to prom whose name is, bizarrely enough, Gray. When I first read this book I really didn't know much about it except that the cover looked awesome, but I finished in a couple of days because I got hooked.
My writing partner and I have been discussing prologues. If you didn't know there's a lot of negative feelings about prologues in the publishing community because 9 times out of 10 they're unnecessary. One of my only complaints about this book is the fact that the prologue is a complete waste of time. It doesn't set the tone for the rest of the book and it doesn't give you any information that you couldn't learn just as well later. Yet another proof that prologues are a waste of time and I need to stop writing them for my books.
I really appreciated the way the author dealt with the story. There were times when she could have gotten really graphic, but she didn't. Everything was written with respect to the reader. Sort of like how Hitchcock didn't feel the need to spell everything out, Ms. Werlin realizes that you know what's going on without her showing you the dirty details. I enjoyed this book a lot.
Happy reading!
Age-range: 15 and up
This book is based on the song "Scarborough Fair" by Simon and Garfunkel. Apparently Ms. Werlin really listened to the lyrics one day and realized how psychotic they were. A dozen years later voila! she had written this book.
Lucy Scarborough is a junior in high school with fantastic foster parents, an insane mother who's a bag-lady, a best friend named Zach, and a date to prom whose name is, bizarrely enough, Gray. When I first read this book I really didn't know much about it except that the cover looked awesome, but I finished in a couple of days because I got hooked.
My writing partner and I have been discussing prologues. If you didn't know there's a lot of negative feelings about prologues in the publishing community because 9 times out of 10 they're unnecessary. One of my only complaints about this book is the fact that the prologue is a complete waste of time. It doesn't set the tone for the rest of the book and it doesn't give you any information that you couldn't learn just as well later. Yet another proof that prologues are a waste of time and I need to stop writing them for my books.
I really appreciated the way the author dealt with the story. There were times when she could have gotten really graphic, but she didn't. Everything was written with respect to the reader. Sort of like how Hitchcock didn't feel the need to spell everything out, Ms. Werlin realizes that you know what's going on without her showing you the dirty details. I enjoyed this book a lot.
Happy reading!
Monday, June 20, 2011
June Book Review #5
Book: A Tale of Two Castles by Gail Carson Levine
Age-range: 8 and up
I always make a point of reading Ms. Levine's books when they come out. She has yet to disappoint me! I feel this most recent book is accessible for a younger audience than Ella Enchanted or Ever, but not necessarily as young as her Pixie Hollow books.
The protagonist is a girl named Elodie (similar to my middle name, Eloie) who leaves home to become an apprentice to the stage. Things don't turn out as she planned and she ends up an assistant to a dragon. Then she and the dragon are caught up in a mystery involving the king, the princess, and the ogre.
This is quite different from Ms. Levine's previous books, and while it won't replace Ella Enchanted as my favorite, it was really quite cute.
Happy reading!
Age-range: 8 and up
I always make a point of reading Ms. Levine's books when they come out. She has yet to disappoint me! I feel this most recent book is accessible for a younger audience than Ella Enchanted or Ever, but not necessarily as young as her Pixie Hollow books.
The protagonist is a girl named Elodie (similar to my middle name, Eloie) who leaves home to become an apprentice to the stage. Things don't turn out as she planned and she ends up an assistant to a dragon. Then she and the dragon are caught up in a mystery involving the king, the princess, and the ogre.
This is quite different from Ms. Levine's previous books, and while it won't replace Ella Enchanted as my favorite, it was really quite cute.
Happy reading!
Saturday, June 18, 2011
June Book Review #4
Book: Lady of Devices by Shelley Adina
Age-range: 10 and up
Shelley Adina is another awesome chick I was able to take classes from at Seton Hill University. This novel marked my first foray into steampunk fiction. And what a way to start! This book is set in the early 1900s and concerns the fortunes both monetary and educational of a girl named Claire.
There are several things Ms. Adina does really well in this book: descriptions of the clothing are amazing; the voices of each of the characters just jump off the page, and the way she makes Victorian life feel so accessible.
There are only two bad things: the second book won't come out until next year (boo!) and it's only available (for now) for download on Kindle. It is very reasonably priced at $2.99 and I was so into the story that I spent most of my vacation reading it instead of trying to take the edge off of my paleness. So worth it!
Happy reading!
Age-range: 10 and up
Shelley Adina is another awesome chick I was able to take classes from at Seton Hill University. This novel marked my first foray into steampunk fiction. And what a way to start! This book is set in the early 1900s and concerns the fortunes both monetary and educational of a girl named Claire.
There are several things Ms. Adina does really well in this book: descriptions of the clothing are amazing; the voices of each of the characters just jump off the page, and the way she makes Victorian life feel so accessible.
There are only two bad things: the second book won't come out until next year (boo!) and it's only available (for now) for download on Kindle. It is very reasonably priced at $2.99 and I was so into the story that I spent most of my vacation reading it instead of trying to take the edge off of my paleness. So worth it!
Happy reading!
Friday, June 17, 2011
June Book Review #3
Book: Worlds of Wonder by David Gerrold
Age-range: 12 and up
This was a great book! It was written by the guy who wrote "The Trouble With Tribbles" episode of Star Trek (the original one). The chapters are short and easy to read. He gives a great look at writing science fiction or fantasy. There was a lot of great information and good tips.
Of course in any book you're going to have to simplify things using generalizations. I didn't agree with some of his blanket statements about sci-fi, but then I'm not really a sci-fi author, so what do I know?
I would recommend it to anyone who has any sort of interest in writing sci-fi or fantasy. Even if it's your first foray into the genre this will be a helpful book to guide your way!
Happy reading!
Age-range: 12 and up
This was a great book! It was written by the guy who wrote "The Trouble With Tribbles" episode of Star Trek (the original one). The chapters are short and easy to read. He gives a great look at writing science fiction or fantasy. There was a lot of great information and good tips.
Of course in any book you're going to have to simplify things using generalizations. I didn't agree with some of his blanket statements about sci-fi, but then I'm not really a sci-fi author, so what do I know?
I would recommend it to anyone who has any sort of interest in writing sci-fi or fantasy. Even if it's your first foray into the genre this will be a helpful book to guide your way!
Happy reading!
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
June Book Review #2
Book: Inside Out by Maria V. Snyder
Age-range: 12 and up
In the name of full disclosure I should tell you that I know Maria; I've taken classes from Maria; she is a super-nice person. Did that sway my feelings about her book? I don't think so.
When I first read the premise of this book it sounded amazing! Trella is a scrub who works in the pipes. Her world is divided into "uppers" and "lowers" and she is definitely a lower. Through a series of events she finds herself embroiled in a plot that will change everything in their little world. There are a ton of totally unexpected twists and turns and I can't wait to read the sequel that just came out this year.
This was entertaining, easy-to-read, and completely lacking in profanity and sex-scenes. It was a refreshing change from some of the other YA books I've tried to read lately. Try it; you'll like it!
Happy reading!
Age-range: 12 and up
In the name of full disclosure I should tell you that I know Maria; I've taken classes from Maria; she is a super-nice person. Did that sway my feelings about her book? I don't think so.
When I first read the premise of this book it sounded amazing! Trella is a scrub who works in the pipes. Her world is divided into "uppers" and "lowers" and she is definitely a lower. Through a series of events she finds herself embroiled in a plot that will change everything in their little world. There are a ton of totally unexpected twists and turns and I can't wait to read the sequel that just came out this year.
This was entertaining, easy-to-read, and completely lacking in profanity and sex-scenes. It was a refreshing change from some of the other YA books I've tried to read lately. Try it; you'll like it!
Happy reading!
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
June Book Review #1
Book: A Vintage Affair by Isabel Wolff
Age-range: 15 and up
I found this book at Costco and bought it on a whim. The cover was so luscious and the premise sounded interesting, not to mention I love vintage clothing! And the clothing definitely takes center stage in this book. If you don't know a lot about vintage and antique clothes then some of the descriptions and designers might not mean much to you, but if you even have a cursory knowledge of vintage then you'll love them!
There are two different story-lines in this book. One is the "real" story that's touted on the back of the book and the other is a relationship story-line. The relationship story didn't do much for me, but the other part was fascinating. Through a series of events two women are brought together, one who just lost a friend and one who is about to die. The older woman tells Phoebe (the main character) about life for her in France during World War II. It was so good it made me cry! (Of course I'd just had a baby, so that might have had something to do with it too.
All in all this was a nice read, but I not one that I would necessarily recommend with giggles and excitement. Her writing was amazing, however, so I'll definitely check out some of her other titles.
Happy reading!
Age-range: 15 and up
I found this book at Costco and bought it on a whim. The cover was so luscious and the premise sounded interesting, not to mention I love vintage clothing! And the clothing definitely takes center stage in this book. If you don't know a lot about vintage and antique clothes then some of the descriptions and designers might not mean much to you, but if you even have a cursory knowledge of vintage then you'll love them!
There are two different story-lines in this book. One is the "real" story that's touted on the back of the book and the other is a relationship story-line. The relationship story didn't do much for me, but the other part was fascinating. Through a series of events two women are brought together, one who just lost a friend and one who is about to die. The older woman tells Phoebe (the main character) about life for her in France during World War II. It was so good it made me cry! (Of course I'd just had a baby, so that might have had something to do with it too.
All in all this was a nice read, but I not one that I would necessarily recommend with giggles and excitement. Her writing was amazing, however, so I'll definitely check out some of her other titles.
Happy reading!
Monday, June 13, 2011
Don't Get Overwhelmed
Okay, so I've figured out how I'm going to do my book reviews. That means this week I'm going to catch up on the books I've read the last month and a half. There will be at least half a dozen blog posts this week, possibly more. Don't get overwhelmed. Just take it one entry at a time and I'm sure you'll get through it!
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
I'm Still Here
Okay, so I really have been reading since my last blog post, but I still haven't decided HOW I'm going to blog. I don't really want to write reviews per se because sometimes I really hate books that people have suggested to me or that everyone likes (like The Hunger Games trilogy). So then I thought I'd only write about the books I like, but that's no good either because I like to keep track of ALL the books I read in case I forget if I liked a book or not (or forgot if I read it or not, which happens more than I would like to admit).
So if you have a suggestion to help me overcome this quandary I would appreciate it!
So if you have a suggestion to help me overcome this quandary I would appreciate it!
Thursday, April 21, 2011
April Book #1
Book: Breakfast at Tiffany's by Truman Capote
Age-range: 16 and up
What a lot of people don't know is Truman Capote didn't want Audrey Hepburn to play Holly Golightly; he wanted Marilyn Monroe. This intrigued me enough to read his barely-over-100-pages novella a few years ago. Every once in a while I read it again.
If you've seen the movie you're familiar with the story. And if you haven't seen the movie then something is wrong with you and I don't want you reading my blog.
The Holly Golightly of the novella is a lot more Marilyn than Audrey, although a lot of Holly's lines in the movie are pulled directly from the novella. And I mean word for word! There isn't a large amount of expansion on any of the themes in the movie, but it is interesting to see Capote's vision of Holly compared to the Hollywood version.
Happy reading!
Age-range: 16 and up
What a lot of people don't know is Truman Capote didn't want Audrey Hepburn to play Holly Golightly; he wanted Marilyn Monroe. This intrigued me enough to read his barely-over-100-pages novella a few years ago. Every once in a while I read it again.
If you've seen the movie you're familiar with the story. And if you haven't seen the movie then something is wrong with you and I don't want you reading my blog.
The Holly Golightly of the novella is a lot more Marilyn than Audrey, although a lot of Holly's lines in the movie are pulled directly from the novella. And I mean word for word! There isn't a large amount of expansion on any of the themes in the movie, but it is interesting to see Capote's vision of Holly compared to the Hollywood version.
Happy reading!
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Is Anyone Still There?
In October I was thrown for a loop in my personal life when I found out I was pregnant. Inexplicably, I have had not only writer's block since then, but reader's block as well. Every book I've picked up I've been unable to finish. Since October! My writer's block has been gone for a few weeks now and I'm hoping my reader's block will follow suit. We'll see.
Anyway, I realize I've probably lost 90% of my readership with my extra-long hiatus, but I'm here to tell you I'm back and ready to blog those book reviews!
Anyway, I realize I've probably lost 90% of my readership with my extra-long hiatus, but I'm here to tell you I'm back and ready to blog those book reviews!
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