Chronicle Books: Happy Haul-idays, indeed!

 The holiday season is upon us, and Chronicle Books is having an AMAZING giveaway! They are having a "Haul-idays" giveaway, with up to $1000 in prizes! No lie. Here's how it works ... I went through and made my wish-list of up to $500 worth of goodies available from Chronicle Books. If I am selected as the winner, I get my wish list. But that's not all. One lucky commenter on this blogpost will ALSO WIN THE WISH-LIST! That's right. WE BOTH GET BOOKS! There are a lot of bloggers participating, so if you want to go check out their lists, head over here ... It won't hurt my feelings if you comment on multiple wish-lists. ((I'm doing it too!)) So here's my list, and I'm hoping it's a sweet haul-iday season!!!

Gingerbread 
By Jennifer Lindner McGlinn
Photographs by Béatrice Peltre
Who says gingerbread is just for the holidays? This unique cookbook shows how gingerbread can be enjoyed for breakfast or dessert year-round...

Deep Dark Chocolate
By Sara Perry
Photographs by France Ruffenach
Dark chocolate lovers will fall head over heels for each of the more than 60 indulgent recipes in Deep Dark Chocolate...

Sweet Tooth Pack
The Cupcake Deck AND The Chocolate Deck
By Elinor Klivans
There are two things that we can't resist: cupcakes and chocolate. So why fight it? We're throwing in the towel and succumbing to our cravings with the sweetest gift pack on our list.

Luscious Lemon Desserts
By Lori Longbotham
Photographs by Alison Miksch
Lemon sweets are the divas of desserts. Assertive and bold, lemons can be flamboyant, tart, and tangy as in the Lemon Granita or sweet, mellow, and velvety like the creamy Lemon Panna Cotta. Over 70 recipes--from the classics to lip-smacking new favorites--are all enticingly presented in Luscious Lemon Desserts...

Sweet Miniatures
By Flo Braker
Photographs by Michael Lamotte
Award-winning author and acclaimed baking expert Flo Braker knows the best things come in small packages. Now this acclaimed author is back with a revised and expanded edition of her beloved Sweet Miniatures. Winner of the IACP Single-Subject Cookbook Award, Sweet Miniatures offers rich, all-new color photography, a whimsically appealing design, and step-by-step instructions for making all kinds of delectable desserts scaled down to an irresistible one-bite size...

Wookiee Cookies
By Robin Davis
Boba Fett-Uccine and Princess Leia Danish Dos are just the beginning when the Force is with you in the kitchen. Wookiee Cookies is your invitation to fine culinary experiences in the Star Wars frame of mind...

The Big Book of Soups and Stews
By Maryana Vollstedt
Where the best-selling Big Book of Casseroles brought bubbling cheese and golden bread crumbs, The Big Book of Soups and Stews brings succulent meats, tender vegetables, and creamy, savory goodness with 262 comforting recipes for soups, chowders, and stews...

The Glorious Soups and Stews of Italy
By Domenica Marchetti
Photographs by William Meppem
Italian cooks are masters of the art of preparing simmering soups and stews that showcase seasonal ingredients at their very best. Domenica Marchetti reveals their secrets with The Glorious Soups and Stews of Italy, a collection of more than 60 exceptional, authentic recipes that celebrate each season in the Italian tradition...

Delicious Dips
By Diane Morgan
Photographs by Joyce Oudkerk Pool
Diane Morgan -- the diva of dips and champion of chips -- has created more than 50 recipes for everyone's dipping and dunking party favorites...

Pestos, Tapenades & Spreads
By Stacey Printz
Photographs by Mark Lund
With little fuss and enormous flavor, transform everyday meals with simple yet creative toppings, dips, and spreads. Forty recipes are paired with multiple serving suggestions for producing yummy (and healthy!) dishes, from appetizers to dinners...

The Big Book of Appetizers
By Meredith Deeds and Carla Snyder
Everyone is always looking for new and interesting recipes for appetizers, and in this book you'll find hundreds of dips, nuts, nibbles, salsas, spreads, soups, dumplings, tarts, wraps, and so much more!...

Classic Horse Stories
Compiled by Christina Darling
From Black Beauty to Pegasus, few animals inspire as much devotion and delight as horses. This collection has something for the horse-lover in everyone, including favorite horses in fiction, true stories of real horses, and a guide to grooming them...

Classic Western Stories
Compiled by Cooper Edens
For more than a hundred years, the vivid stories of the American West have thrilled and enthralled audiences both young and old, and captured the imaginations of generations. Here are the adventures of outlaws and gunslingers, explorers and settlers, lumberjacks and cowboys. Here are legends—Pecos Bill, Paul Bunyan, Calamity Jane—and trailblazers—Lewis and Clark, Daniel Boone...

Eric Carle Decorative Prints
By Eric Carle
This exciting collection features 12 ready-to-frame stunning posters celebrating the art of Eric Carle. The perfect gift for new parents decorating a nursery, or a delightful addition to any classroom, these posters feature colorful and kid-friendly images, including character favorites such as the Hungry Caterpillar...

Prisoners in the Palace
By Michaela MacColl
London, 1838. Sixteen-year-old Liza's dreams of her society debut are dashed when her parents are killed in an accident. Penniless, she accepts the position of lady's maid to young Princess Victoria and steps unwittingly into the gossipy intrigue of the servant's world below-stairs as well as the trickery above. Is it possible that her changing circumstances may offer Liza the chance to determine her own fate, find true love, and secure the throne for her future queen?...

Romeow and Drooliet
By Nina Laden
Author-artist Nina Laden has taken her trademark wit and applied it to one of Shakespeare's best-loved plays. Adults familiar with the classic love story will delight in the many references to the original play, all of which make this a rarity: a children's book they want to read again and again...

The Hanukkah Mice
By Ronne Randall
Illustrated by Maggie Kneen
This adorable pocket-size tale of three mischievous mice makes an ideal Hanukkah gift. Sweet illustrations and flaps hiding shiny foil surprises keep readers turning the pages until they reach the special ending—a gatefold illustration of a beautiful menorah, with all eight candles burning bright.

Spot the Plot
By J. Patrick Lewis
Illustrated by Lynn Munsinger
Thirteen witty and wacky poems pose riddles that challenge readers to "Name That Book." With a glass slipper here and a spiderweb there, Lynn Munsinger's adorable illustrations lead young readers to the solutions. From Goodnight Moon to Madeline, children and parents alike will delight in recognizing their most cherished stories.

Ivanhoe
By Marianna Mayer
Illustrated by John Rush
At the dawn of the Middle Ages, a gripping tale of chivalry and suspense emerges. Two distinguished knights -- one Saxon, one Norman -- have returned from the Crusades. Though they fought on the same side, they now have a score to settle. What begins as a joust between two rivals quickly escalates into clanwide mayhem and a fast-paced series of battles for revenge, honor, and love...

Bears! Bears! Bears!
By Bob Barner
Everyone's favorite bears (and some you may have never met before) fish, munch, dive, cuddle, and climb their way through this playful romp. The simple rhyming text is enhanced with fun facts about new cubs (pandas are born no bigger than a stick of butter!) and bears around the world (the spectacled bear is the only species native to South America), while Bob Barner's richly textured paper collage illustrations bring the bears of the world to life. Budding ursinologists will bearly be able to contain themselves—this book is sure to leave them roaring for more!

Noah's Ark
Adapted and illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
For 40 days and 40 nights rain poured from the heavens, enveloping the world. Only Noah had been warned by God of the great flood—and only Noah could save life on earth. This powerful story of salvation has fascinated people of all ages for centuries. Now, four-time Caldecott Honor-recipient Jerry Pinkney captures all the courage, drama, and beauty of this ancient parable in rich, glorious paintings...

Thumbelina
By Sylvia Long
From best-selling artist Sylvia Long comes an exquisite version of Hans Christian Andersen's beloved tale about a thumb-size girl and her larger-than-life adventures. Jewel-toned paintings depict the story's settings—from light and airy meadows to Mole's dark and dismal underground home—while whimsical details bring the classic cast of characters to life and make this storytime favorite a visual feast.

Sleeping Beauty
Illustrated by K.Y. Craft
Sleeping Beauty's enchanted slumber has captivated readers' hearts for centuries. Now brought luminously to life by K. Y. Craft's lavish paintings, this new edition of a timeless favorite is sure to enchant readers both young and old. Fairy tale lovers have been eagerly awaiting Craft's next magical romance since the release of her Cinderella. With illustrations inspired by the magnificent style of Baroque painters, the sumptuous color and exquisite detail of this breathtaking interpretation make it a dream come true.

Wild Horse Winter
By Tetsuya Honda
Based on an actual event, this suspenseful story tells the miraculous saga of a herd of beautiful wild horses and details the life of a young colt as it matures and follows the lead of its protective mother to overcome a wild, raging blizzard in the dramatic conclusion of their journey. The soft paintings combine with the simple text to bring a vanishing breed vividly to life. A wonderful book for reading aloud or for sharing, the story subtly parallels the growth of all creatures and underscores the strong bonds that exist between parent and child.

Cat Companion Journal
By Jeffrey Brown
This purr-fectly charming journal features a stamped cover and lots of really cute cat illustrations.

Cat Getting out of a Bag and OtherObservations
By Jeffrey Brown
Celebrated comic artist and graphic novelist Jeffrey Brown's collection of all-new drawings sweetly illustrates the joys of living with a cat. Featured in McSweeney's and on NPR's This American Life, and praised by comic luminaries Chris Ware and Daniel Clowes, Brown's work has always paid tribute to felines as they curl up on couches and purr on the peripheries of his autobiographical stories. Cat Getting Out of a Bag follows his cat Misty—really, any cat—as she goes about her everyday activities and adventures. In a series of drawings, Brown perfectly captures the universal charm of cats in a lovely book sure to please fans and cat lovers of any stripe.

Forests Eco-Keepsake Notecards
By Lisa Congdon
Printed on 100% recycled paper with soy-based inks, these gorgeous notecards feature the lush forest paintings of San Francisco artist Lisa Congdon. Housed in a reusable keepsake box.

Mini Notes
By Susie Ghahremani
Whether they are dropped in a friend's bag, left on a workmate's desk, or clipped to a birthday gift, mini greeting cards are sure to spread smiles and good cheer!

Masha & Friends
By Suzy Ultman
This adorable collection of die-cut notecards recalls the glorious colors and themes of Russian folk art. ...

Total: $491.99

Don't forget: Leave a comment, with an email address/some way to contact you, and you may win a set of these goodies too!

[Everything Austen II] Mr. Knightley's Diary

Everything Austen II is a challenge hosted by Stephanie over at Stephanie's Written Word.
The goal: To read 6 Austen-themed works between July 1, 2010 and January 1, 2011.
The progress so far:
1: Persuasion (Jane Austen)
2: Emma (Jane Austen)
3: Mr. Knightley's Diary (Amanda Grange)
4:
5:
6:

Mr. Knightley's Diary
Amanda Grange
Berkley Trade, 2006

I happily timed the reading of this to coincide with the finishing of Emma. I liked the juxtaposition of having just finished reading the 'full-fledged' version with seeing everything unfold from Mr. Knightley's point of view. Having read Grange's Mr. Darcy's Diary when it first came out, I knew to expect good things of Knightley - and was not disappointed! Everything that I loved about Mr. Knightley in Austen's original comes through - and is gracefully and carefully fleshed out - in Grange's. Here is a Mr. Knightley who feels, and who battles with his own understanding. Watching his words reflect his so-very-obvious preference for Miss Emma Woodhouse above all others, before he realized he was in actually rather in love with said young lady, was delightfully amusing. I smiled often, chuckled a little, and fell even more in love with the gentle Mr. Knightley. Grange is very careful in her writing to stay true to Austen's original characters, even while giving them more 'body' and story. There are faithful accounts of the actions that take place in Emma recorded in Knightley's diary - whole conversations have even been recorded for posterity! A lovely read, and most definitely a wonderful accompaniment for Emma.

Book provided by my local library.

[Everything Austen II] Emma

Everything Austen II is a challenge hosted by Stephanie over at Stephanie's Written Word.
The goal: To read 6 Austen-themed works between July 1, 2010 and January 1, 2011.
The progress so far:
1: Persuasion (Jane Austen)
2: Emma (Jane Austen)
3:
4:
5:
6:

Emma
Jane Austen
Bantam Classics, 1984 (original publication 1815)

I read Emma ages ago, back in early high school. Probably sophomore year? I remember liking the story at the time, but at 15 there was no way I could possibly appreciate it the way I did now, rereading at the ripe old age of 25. This go-round, I was able to not only delight in the writing itself -- this may be the best written of Austen's novels, in my opinion -- but to lose my heart to the story, the characters, the whole shebang.

Perhaps one of the reasons I got so much more out of the novel this time was because for the first time in my life, I can actually relate to Emma Woodhouse. (I've watched the movies a dozen times, so I'm intimately acquainted with the story itself, if not as familiar with reading the words). I keep hearing that people do not like Emma as a character, and I'm not sure why. She's no Lizzie Bennett, but I find Emma refreshingly human. So she's spoiled and vain - she has every reason to be, and there is a good heart underneath the silliness. I found her a bit flippant at times, but attributed it to her youth and comparative isolation from society. What I did get a wee bit frustrated with was her inability to see Mr. Knightley. I fell in love with Mr. Knightley, really and truly, and found him to be a rival of Mr. Darcy for the title of "Perfect Romantic Hero".

Emma has much to offer the ready reader: a love story of aching sweetness and possibility; a host of characters that reflect all the best and worst of humanity; moments of dialogue that could be overheard in any college hall or coffee shop; and that special flavor that Jane gives to her best work. A delightful experience, and I shall revisit Emma again before another 10 years passes.

Book provided by my personal library.

*Breaking News* Melissa Walker's New Cover Revealed!

So I am totally psyched to be able to help Melissa Walker reveal the cover of her new, upcoming book! The book, Small Town Sinners, doesn't come out until *July*, but the cover has just been unveiled ... and I must say, I am definitely intrigued! Can't wait to see it in real-life and read it!

Without further ado ...

Lacey Anne Byer is a perennial good girl and lifelong member of the House of Enlightenment, the Evangelical church in her small town. With her driver's license in hand and the chance to try out for a lead role in Hell House, her church's annual haunted house of sin, Lacey's junior year is looking promising. But when a cute new stranger comes to town, something begins to stir inside her. Ty Davis doesn't know the sweet, shy Lacey Anne Byer everyone else does. With Ty, Lacey could reinvent herself. As her feelings for him make Lacey test her boundaries, events surrounding Hell House make her question her religion. Does falling in love mean falling out of faith?

Mini Shopaholic

Mini Shopaholic
Sophie Kinsella
Dial Press, 2010

There's a new Shopaholic novel! My little sister and I were so very excited when we found out this was coming out, and when I got my hands on a copy before she did ... Well, let's just say there was a little jealousy. I had toyed with the idea of rereading all the others before reading this latest installment, since I haven't read them in several years, but I just didn't have the time. Turns out it would have been a totally unnecessary endeavor - this edition of Becky Brandon (nee` Bloomwood)'s life can stand alone easily. Yes, it helps to have some idea of who (and what) Becky is, and the nature of her hilarious life with Luke and Co. But this is a new phase of Becky's life, and seems to be a much more concentrated focus too -- dealing with a few months' time and a massive project. I liked it. It was different than the other Shopaholic novels, and so different from what I was expecting. But I did like it -- I had to find out if everything turned out alright. I had to see what on earth Becky would end up doing (or not doing) as the story progressed. It was an easy read, enjoyable and satisfyingly fluffy. And I really, really hope Sophie Kinsella picks up where she leaves off and gives us a seventh Shopaholic novel in a little while!

Book provided by my local library.

New Books!

Okay ... It's been a while since I posted New Books! happiness. So here's a glimpse of what I've acquired in the last ... month and a half or so:

The Moon Looked Down (Dorothy Garlock)

Whisper on the Wind (Maureen Lang - signed!)

The Secret Diaries of Charlotte Bronte (Syrie James)

To Conquer Mr Darcy (Abigail Reynolds - signed!)

 Queen's Daughter (Susan Coventry - signed and with Queen's Daughter sticky notes!)

Love on a Dime (Cara Lynn James)

All of them are very beautiful. I hardly know what to read first! I think I may end up closing my eyes, shuffling the stack, and randomly picking one. Or write the titles on slips of paper and put 'em in a tea cup or something and draw my next selection.

Keep your eyes peeled for reviews to come!

Stars in the Night

Stars in the Night
Cara C. Putnam
Summerside, 2010

I won this from a weekly giveaway over at Favorite PASTimes, and Ms. Putman signed it with a wonderful message I needed the day it came: "Dreams do come true!" Even though I don't normally read mysteries, this book called and beckoned and I had to answer ... Yes, there is a mystery to it, but the story itself is so much more than trying to figure out "whodunit". The characters are real - I recognized much of myself in Audra - their feelings are familiar, their conversation believable. I knew I'd like the story based solely on it being about the Homefront effort during WWII - especially since it focuses on glamorous old Hollywood. I did not expect to get so 'sucked in' to the story -- I devoured it once I was able to sit down and read it. I had to find out what was going to happen next, how everything would turn out in the end. I didn't expect everything to resolve as it did - I was truly surprised by the twists and turns in the mystery part of the telling. I don't want to give anything away, but this is definitely a book I'd recommend for someone wanting an involving, satisfying read that has more weight than chick lit, but isn't really heavy.

Book provided by my personal library.

Dear George Clooney: Please Marry My Mom

Dear George Clooney: Please Marry My Mom
Susan Nielsen
Tundra Books, 2010

As promised in a previous post, a review of Dear George Clooney: Please Marry My Mom! I wasn't entirely sure what I was getting into when I started to read -- I haven't read about middleschoolers in years -- but the premise was just too good to pass up. How could I resist a story about a girl trying to set her mom up with George Clooney?! You just can't do that. Resist, I mean. Although chances are it'd be a bit difficult to set up someone with Clooney. But I digress ... Back to the review: The characters are younger than what I've read in a while, but that did not detract from either the story nor the characters themselves. Violet is not too growny, and while once or twice I felt like she was acting a little 'beyond her age', within the context of the story it made sense and worked. Then too, I stopped to think about my little cousin and her friends - all 13-14 - and how they behave ... Violet was very convincing as a character, and I enjoyed her escapades.

For all the fun and humor of the title, there is some serious real-life stuff going on in Violet's life. Nothing is over-dramatized or played up for emotional shock value, everything is presented as "this is reality". I think there are probably a lot of readers who can relate to Violet and her experiences and emotions. It's a real book, that will make you think about real things, but in a super cute and very enjoyable, fun read. Definitely glad I gave it a go - thanks, Amanda, for making it possible!

Book provided by my personal library.

The Cookbook Collector

The Cookbook Collector
Allegra Goodman
Dial Press, 2010

What caught my attention initially was the title - my mum and I collect cookbooks, so to see a novel entitled "The Cookbook Collector" was attention-getting to say the least. Then I saw where people are calling Allegra Goodman "the modern-day Jane Austen". And at that point, I knew I needed to give in and read the book. Thankfully, I lucked out and the library had it available and ready for check out!

I'm not sure I'd go so far as to call Goodman the new Jane Austen, but I can understand why people draw the comparison: Just as Jane knew humanity and was able to demonstrate the ridiculous and the admirable in her characters, Goodman is a keen observer of human nature and draws very believable, real figures. So while I can understand it, I don't entirely agree. The Cookbook Collector has a LOT of characters. And almost all of them get a chance to 'speak'/ be in the spotlight. While that creates a very developed, detailed and dimensional story, it was also rather confusing until I got everyone sorted out in my head.

Actually, that's kind of my overall feeling about the book: I was confused until I got it all organized. There are a lot of storylines, and figuring out how they all related - IF they were all related - took some mental attention. As the story progressed, it got easier and easier to follow. Whether that's because I was now totally engrossed in the story or because I had worked through the confusing beginning and made it into a clearer-in-general part of the story, I don't know. What I do know is this: Goodman wove an intricate tale, and took it somewhere I was not expecting. At all. Once I reached the end, I had a moment of thinking "I should've seen that coming," but then - if I had seen it coming, I wouldn't have liked the story so well. Because I did like it, a lot. Allegra Goodman may not be Jane Austen, but she can write an amazing and arresting story.

Book provided by my local library.

Simon Pulse RomCom Challenge

I saw this posted over on the YA Booknerd blog, and while I was intrigued I didn't think I would be able to get my hands on any of the books. Then I browsed the stacks of the library I am interning at, and had a momentary happy dance today! They have some Simon Pulse RomComs!!! Not the whole set, but enough to let me do the challenge. Quite exciting, let me tell you. This will be my second challenge effort (the first being Everything Austen II, which I need to get my butt in gear on), and I'm pretty excited.

I think I'm going to do this at the 'Lover' level, since I'm not sure there are 15 different titles I can get my hands on ... If I can read more, I will. But I'm shooting for 5! Yippee!

Girl in Translation

Girl in Translation
Jean Kwok
Riverhead, 2010

I have seen this listed on a lot of To-Read lists, and read several reviews, and let's be honest: the cover and title are pretty amazing. (Random sidenote: I wish my own hair would stay that nicely with a pencil stuck through it.) So when I saw it available at the library, I quickly scooped it up.

The story is straight-forward and chronological, after the initial chapter that is a little bit of a "Huh? Did I miss something?"-intro to the book. It makes sense later, after you've read the story of ah-Kim from beginning to end. Premise is simple: mother and young daughter immigrate from China to America, and do whatever it takes to survive. Ah-Kim is very smart, and quickly learns what needs to be done to rescue her mother and herself from their situation in life. Along the way, there are all sorts of 'normal' growing up adventures, and these are contrasted to the 'hidden' life of New York's Chinese.

For me, the book was just 'okay' -- it didn't have me hanging on every word, but I wasn't disgusted either. I kept reading, and was actually surprised by the ending. Did not see that one coming. At all. Kwok's ability to slip that in while leaving me, the reader, totally unawares of where the story was going earned a few points.

Book provided by my local library.

My Name is Memory

My Name is Memory
Ann Brashares
Riverhead, 2010

I am a huge fan of Ann Brashares, and have read every book she's written. So when I found out she had a new book coming out this year, I was thrilled! Until I saw the premise ... I'm definitely not a fan of paranormal, and while time travel in the sense of - well, I guess it's basically reincarnation - isn't that "paranormal" it was a little odd and not really on my reading radar. But the cover kept beckoning, and I kept seeing it popping up in places, so I gave in. Oh. Wow. I am so glad I did. The story isn't about reincarnation so much as it is about memory - and what makes a person the person they are. It's about trust and faith and love. It's about humanity. And it's a bittersweet romance.

Daniel, the one who remembers the most, gives us all the backstory, which involves a lot of flashbacks/memories. They're nicely done however, and clearly marked - both by chapter headings and a change in font. The memories are scattered in among the 'current' story, and help explain why everything is happening as it is in the now. In the process of learning about Daniel and Lucy/Sophia's past, the reader also gets to experience fun historical vignettes - Daniel has lived many times, and has many memories. This is most definitely a book that requires the willing suspension of disbelief -- it is rather fantastic at points -- but if you read the words on the page instead of trying to reconcile them with a sense of reality, the story will take you amazing places.

All things considered, I'm glad I took a chance on My Name is Memory -- it is very different from what I tend to read, but the story was everything I expect from Brashares. Sometimes risks are lesser than their rewards.

Book provided by my local library.

Summer Reading Recap

I work in a college environ, so I consider 'summer' to be May-June-July-August, therefore, here are the books read from May through August:


May
- Waiting for You: Susane Colasanti (320)
- Sweet Little Lies: Lauren Conrad (309)
- The Alpha Bet: Stephanie Hale (232)
- The Cranford Chronicles: Elizabeth Gaskell (484)
- The Cinderella Society: Kay Cassidy (322)
- Boys, Bears, and a Serious Pair of Hiking Boots: Abby McDonald (293)
- The Summer I Turned Pretty: Jenny Han (276)

June
- Spoken from the Heart: Laura Bush (432)
- Wish: Alexandra Bullen (323)
- Dreaming of Dior: Charlotte Smith (292)
- Wedding Season: Darcy Cosper (340)
- Odd and the Frost Giants: Neil Gaiman (118)
- Princess Ben: Catherine Gilbert Murdock (344)
- A Song for Summer: Eva Ibbotson (397)
- Android Karenina: Leo Tolstoy & Ben Winters (538)
- Tammy: Adventure in Hollywood: Alice Wellman (214)
- It's Not Summer Without You: Jenny Han (277)
- The Bad Queen: Carolyn Meyer (420)

July
- Cleopatra's Daughter: Michelle Moran (422)
- Someday My Prince will Come: Jerramy Fine (305)
- Portion of the Sea: Christine Lemmon (422)
- After the Kiss: Terra Elan McVoy (382)
- The Cupcake Queen: Heather Hepler (242)
- Runaway: Meg Cabot (310)
- Persuasion: Jane Austen (283)
- Ice Land: Betsy Tobin (354)

August
- Everlasting: Angie Frazier (329)
- Heist Society: Ally Carter (287)
- Commencement: J. Courtney Sullivan (324)
- Lowcountry Summer: Dorothea Benton Frank (340)
- My Name is Memory: Ann Brashares (324)
- Girl in Translation (290)

Totals:  32 books, 10545 pages

Okay ... So maybe that's a lot more than I was expecting, even though I see my yearlong tally on a regular basis. It was obviously a hot-hot summer, which meant a lot of afternoons reading in the cool. And no, not all of those books have been reviewed on here - this blog is still getting up and running as a steady review-source; and, too, some of them I just frankly didn't feel inclined to review some of 'em. I'm getting better though, I really am. There are definitely some reviews in the works waiting to get fine-tuned and published. So stay tuned!

Commencement

Commencement
J. Courtney Sullivan
Knopf, 2009

I originally picked up Commencement because it looked to be one of those chick lit books I love: four girls, from different backgrounds, finding each other at the right time, and staying friends through life's adventures and misadventures. It was that, but it was also so much more! I expected fluffy, happy-go-lucky, maybe a tear but definitely some laughing out loud. I got that, but I also got a thought-provoking story that reached in deep and made me think about all kinds of 'issues'.

Logistically, the novel is written from each of the girls' perspective in turn - clearly labeled, and you always know which character is narrating which section (this is a good thing). Since the story begins with their freshman introduction and continues to the present, there is a lot of 'flashback' and time-jumping -- however, it is not confusing and transitions are introduced very well. Each girl is allowed to tell her own story, or own personal interpretation of shared events as well as her own individual journey. Because of this, there is some overlap between accounts - however, this only adds to the depth of the story, making it more real and involved.

I definitely loved this novel, even though some parts were really hard to read ((there are a lot of serious, weighty issues that are present - it's not overwhelming, but you will think)). I had no idea where the story was going, and at the end I was totally surprised -- since I tend to guess how things are going to end, this is an accomplishment on the part of the author. I'd love to know where the story is going from there -- will there be a sequel? Does it continue only in the minds and hearts of those who read it? Time will tell, I s'pose.

Book provided by my local library.

Happy happy!

I've been horrible about updating lately, oops. I have reviews to post, I just haven't ... Sigh. Bad habits are so easily acquired. However, some happy teasers:

New books are in my life muchly these days! Not only did I make an amazing haul at Goodwill a few weeks ago regarding 1950s-1970s "young adult" books, but I find myself the happy winner of several giveaways this month. That is definitely something to celebrate. So far, the only one that has been delivered is Dear George Clooney: Please Marry My Mom, which I won from Amanda's very fun giveaway over at Books of Amanda's Land! I will post the others as they come ... and be looking for a review of Dear George coming soon. We hope.

Reviews are coming. I promise! Just not sure when ... but until then, check out some of the blogs on my blogroll for some amazing To-Read List additions.

Wowzers Giveaway!

Passages to the Past is hosting an amazing giveaway! Check it out (also on the sidebar, for easy access)!

The loot:
The entire collection of Susan Holloway Scott's novels - historical fiction, with gorgeous covers and appealing titles and storylines. Definitely very interesting ... Here's hoping!

Contest @ Breathless Books

Becky over at BreathlessBooks is having a follower-celebration contest: Win a book from her To-Be-Read list!

Check it out: http://breathlessbooks.blogspot.com/2010/08/50-follower-giveaway.html#links

Choose Your Genre Contest

Hey hey, stumbled across another amazing contest: Choose Your Genre over at Books Obsession!

There are four, yes, FOUR, different prize packs you can win from (designated by genre), and each pack features books and swag. Cool beans,  right?

Check it out: Choose your genre contest!

Amazing Contest!

Stumbled across this contest - totally amazing. Seriously. Check it out!
Best part of all? It's about sharing your reading with your sisters! Oh yeah ... This is good stuff.

http://www.facebook.com/ThereseWalsh.author?v=wall#!/notes/therese-walsh/a-big-fat-51-author-102-book-my-sister-and-me-contest-the-official-rules-the-off/143430712341519

Heist Society

Heist Society
Ally Carter
Hyperion, 2010

This is totally not my normal read, but I saw it and decided to pick it up on a whim; the cover and title are fun, and the blurb on the bookflap suggested there might be something I'd at least like to the story. I was quickly whisked away on an adventure unlike any I've been on before. Sometimes taking risks pays off - whether they are simple, like reading something out of your ordinary, or huge risks that put your life and the lives of all those you love best at work, like Kat has to make in the story.

The story was surprising well-written. Fast-paced, with enough action and drama to keep me focused and interested, but not so much as to be overwhelming. Timing was key, because the main story takes place in just two weeks' time. Some of the travel that takes place seems a little far-fetched, but this is a far-fetched story set in a global world. This was definitely a glimpse into a world I can barely even imagine, but - surprisingly - enjoyed. May have to take a few more [reading] risks in the future ...

Book provided by my local library.

Ice Land

Ice Land
Betsy Tobin
Plume, 2008

Oh. My. I fell in love with the cover a year or so ago, and when I found out it was about Norse myth, knew I simply had to read it. When I finally got my hands on it, it was definitely worth the wait.

I knew the story dealt with Freya (Norse goddess of love), and somehow the country of Iceland. What I didn't realize was that there were two separate storylines that were going to be presented -- stories that were overlapped and interwoven with an intricacy I did not expect. I was quickly immersed in the story - excuse me, stories - I was reading, and then when everything came together I was surprised. But also delighted.

I'm not sure exactly what I was expecting - probably a novel just about the Aesir and Asgard. Instead I got a beautifully descriptive novel that examined the humanity of the gods, and their undeniable connections to the 'earthlings' (humans, dwarves, giants, animals ...). It's a novel about life, and chances, and most of all: Love.

Book provided by my personal library.

[Everything Austen II] Persuasion

Everything Austen II is a challenge hosted by Stephanie over at Stephanie's Written Word.
The goal: To read 6 Austen-themed works between July 1, 2010 and January 1, 2011.
The progress so far:
1: Persuasion (Jane Austen)
2:
3:
4:
5:
6:

Persuasion
Jane Austen
Signet Classics, 1996 (original publication 1817)

I have read at least 3, if not 4, contemporary retellings of Austen's Persuasion - so I was very familiar with the story. Several of my close friends love it, calling it their favorite Austen of all. So I went into this with high hopes and a happy sense of anticipation. And then I struggled my way through it ... I love Jane, but I definitely do not love Persuasion. At all. You can tell that this novel was written as she was "running out of time" sotospeak, and was not able to go back and rework everything -- it's almost like a second, maybe third draft, and one more good revision would have done the trick. The story's there, the characters have some promise, but it's just not quite clicking. The best of the whole book are Chapters 10 and 11 of Volume 2 -- coincidentally, the only two chapters Jane went back and did serious reworking of (or so says the introduction in my volume). You can tell. There's a difference to the story in those two chapters.

Anne Elliot annoyed me. I wanted to shake her until her teeth rattled in her head and she woke up. They say she shows amazing patience -- to me, she showed immense passivity. Did she feel things? Yeah, to varying degrees. But she was just so ... complacent and accepting of everything. I got increasingly frustrated with her as the course of the novel continued. Captain Wentworth was not a bad hero - but I'd like to get to know him better. He had a humanity to him, a normal, familiar pride about him, that reminded me of Darcy. Perhaps if the Captain were written more, Anne would be more appealing and the story revived greatly.

Unfortunately, strangely, the original Austen is lacking in story and likeability to the contemporary retellings.

Book provided by my personal library.

After the Kiss

After the Kiss
Terra Elan McVoy
Simon Pulse, 2010

The cover caught my attention on this one. Well, the cover and the title itself. I'd seen several reviews for it, and they all led me to believe it'd be a cute, easy summer read. That part is definitely true - what they did not tell me was that it's a novel in verse.

The basic premise is that the book follows two girls, who do not meet or technically know each other. I say technically, because their stories overlap. Drastically. Dramatically.

Each girl is allowed to tell her own story ... Camille writes in free-verse, almost stream-of-consciousness, but in third person. It allows for a singular perspective: you're getting to see inside her - as much as she allows herself to look inward, anyway - but you also get to see the dynamics of her world. Becca writes in a variety of poetic forms ... from tributes to Browning and Williams to a very cleverly done villanelle.

Overall, I think the form works - I just wish I'd had a little forewarning. I was caught blindsided and was therefore a wee bit confused. That quickly dissipated, it just took a moment or two of adjusting.

Book provided by my local library.

Portion of the Sea

Portion of the Sea
Christine Lemmon
Penmark, 2010


I won this in a Goodreads.com firstread's giveaway: after stumbling across a review of Lemmon's newest novel (Sand in my Eyes) at Luxury Reading, I saw this book listed as an ending-today firstreads giveaway. I entered on a whim and a hope, and actually won. Talk about huge smiles!

What originally caught my attention was the blurb on the back: A tale about a woman’s treasures – heart, soul, and mind –
and the struggle to keep them afloat.

It’s 1953 in sunny Florida, a...more  

A tale about a woman’s treasures – heart, soul, and mind –
and the struggle to keep them afloat.

It’s 1953 in sunny Florida, and 15-year-old Lydia Isleworth thinks her ultimate life goal, like that of every woman she knows, is to marry a respectable man and raise a family. Then, she meets an aspiring Hollywood actress Marlena DiPluma, who says four life-changing words—YOU CAN DO ANYTHING—and gives her a journal to read. The journal, written by Ava, a defiant girl of Lydia’s age, becomes the catalyst for Lydia’s awakening and new life adventure.

A story of parallel lives, Portion of the Sea follows two young women in passionate pursuit of their independence–Lydia during the cultural revolution of the 1950s and 1960s, and Ava during the late-1800s when a few pioneering American ladies set the course for women’s freedom.

In this stirring follow-up to her debut novel Sanibel Scribbles, Christine Lemmon offers a trademark story of how women can inspire each other to pursue bold dreams, make courageous choices, and reclaim lost treasures.

Knowing this was also about my much-beloved Gulf Coast, I couldn't wait to dig in and read. I was not disappointed.

Portion of the Sea is a double-story: Lydia's story is intricately interwoven with the story of Ava, and while sometimes this can be very confusing or slightly annoying, Lemmon executes it with success. There are clear delineations between the two girls and their stories, but they are similar enough that together they comprise a beautifully written portrait of a girl's discovering who she is and what she wants out of the world.

I saw myself in so much of the revelations and frustrations verbalized by both Lydia and Ava. I recognized their struggles, I empathized with their troubles and confusions, and I knew their joys. (Well, most of them). This is a book that I am going to, without a doubt, hand my friends, encourage my little cousins to read, and one day, share with my daughters. It's a powerful story, and beautifully written. Plus, it's about the magic of my Gulf.

Book provided by my personal library.

New Books!

So my list of new books is huge this week, but only because my library was having a major book sale: $1 a bag, for as many books as you can cram in. How amazing is that?! Needless to say, I had fun. Here are my newly acquired titles:

• The Shy Stegosaurus of Cricket Creek (Evelyn Lampman)
• The Shy Stegosaurus of Indian Springs (Evelyn Lampman)
• The Garden Party (Katherine Mansfield)
• The Grand Sophy (Georgette Heyer)
• Cabbages and Kings (O.Henry)
• Her Father's Daughter (Gene Stratton-Porter)
• Free River (Myna Lockwood)
• Names on the Land (George R Stewart)
• Living Biographies of Famous Novelists (c. 1943)
• Complete Works of James Whitcomb Riley, vol. VI
• Children's Books too Good to Miss (1966 edition)
• Men of Albemarle (Inglis Fletcher -- 1st edition!)
• Dawn's Early Light (Elyswth Thane - Williamsburg series)
• Yankee Stranger (Elyswth Thane - Williamsburg series) 
• Ever After (Elyswth Thane - Williamsburg series) 
• Light Heart (Elyswth Thane - Williamsburg series) 
• Homing (Elyswth Thane - Williamsburg series) 
• The Lost General (Elyswth Thane)
• From This Day Forward (Elswyth Thane)

I also received another won-book: Ice Land (Betsy Tobin)

The Thane books -- I saw Ever After and was caught by the title. Picked it up on a whim, because at 10-cents a piece, it's okay to take the gamble. Then I realized there were several other titles by the same author, and snagged them too. Last night, while on Goodreads.com I learned that there actually IS a Williamsburg series (following a couple families through generations - I think very similarly to Eugenia Price's books), and I had managed to find the first 4 and 7th titles in the series. Just need to find the 'missing' 2, and I'll have a complete set! Wowzers. Hope they're as good as they look to be. The other two Thane titles are stand alones, best I can tell.

Someday My Prince Will Come

Someday My Prince Will Come
Jerramy Fine
Gotham, 2008

I LOVED the title first - it just speaks of my life. And when I saw it on a bargain table, I had to snatch it up. It's a light, easy read that actually does hit on some fairly important/serious issues. The premise is simple: American girl is IN LOVE to the point of obsession with an English Prince, and determines she is destined to marry into the Royal Family. The story is her adventures (and misadventures) along the way ... Any girl who has ever indulged in serious daydreams about what life wou...more I LOVED the title first - it just speaks of my life. And when I saw it on a bargain table, I had to snatch it up. It's a light, easy read that actually does hit on some fairly important/serious issues. The premise is simple: American girl is IN LOVE to the point of obsession with an English Prince (whom she has never met, from the age of 6), and determines she is destined to marry into the Royal Family. The story is her adventures (and misadventures) along the way ... Any girl who has ever indulged in serious daydreams about what life would be like as a Disney Princess will appreciate and relate to Fine's musing and contemplation. I recognized myself in several of her statements - as well as in her revelations (well, maybe not ALL of them, but the more 'universally applicable' ones - if you read it, you'll know what I mean).

Book provided by my personal library.

New Books!

'Twas an exciting week! I got three new books! And only one of them was for my birthday. Without further ado ... The New Books:

This showed up via UPS and I was a little confused at first, Mum and I just laughed at my random receipt of an ARC (advanced reading copy). And then I did some sleuthing and realized this was won in a contest back in April - first 100 entrants into the BIG contest won this ARC; apparently I was one of those 100 and just got the book. I'll take more free reading!

I am super excited about this one! Was introduced to Lemmon's work via Luxury Reading and kinda fell in love a little. I am a huge fan of the Gulf Coast region, especially Florida's Gulf Coast. So when I saw this listed as a "ending-today-giveaway" at Goodreads.com, I entered on a whim. And won! And it was delivered to me this week. Oh happiness.

This was a birthday present, because I am a sucker for kiddie picture books, and I have a much beloved little princess bunny of my own. (The living, breathing kind!) It's adorable. Simply adorable.

Cleopatra's Daughter

Cleopatra's Daughter
Michelle Moran
Crown Publishing, 2009

For several months, actually close to a year, I've looked at this cover and seen mini-reviews of it, and wanted to read it; but I never did anything about it - until I saw it on the New Books Shelf at my library. So I snatched it, devoured it, and think anyone with any interest at all in A] a well-written story, B] historical fiction that actually reads believable, or C] ancient Rome, should definitely take the time to read Cleopatra's Daughter.

The story centers around Cleopatra's twins, Alexander and Selene, and how they lived in Rome - in Octavian's sister's home - after Octavian conquered Egypt and effectively forced the suicides of their parents. Moran does an amazing job of working in Roman history, and the story is engrossing and exceptionally well-written. I got personally involved with the characters, and had to know what was going to happen to them. So much so, that I skipped ahead and flipped through the last few pages - and grinned like a Cheshire cat! I love it when what I really want to happen happens, and love it even more when the story is such that even knowing the ending I have to keep reading. This was one of those books.

I don't want to give away anything. You just have to pick it up and read it. If you don't like it, let me know why, please, because I think anyone who appreciates story will love it as much as I do.

Book provided by my local library.

Android Karenina

Android Karenina
Leo Tolstoy & Ben Winters
Quirk Classics, 2010

I won this book free through the FirstReads giveaway on Goodreads, and was rather excited about it. Several summers ago, I randomly read Anna Karenina for the heck of it, and loved it. I have since discovered that I have a bit of a weakness for sci-fi, so when I found out that my favorite Russian work was being meshed with robots and uber-technology? Oh yes ... Summer reading extraordinaire!
The story is good, fast-paced and has a lot of twists and turns, some that I definitely was not expe...more I won this book free through the FirstReads giveaway on Goodreads.com, and was rather excited about it. Several summers ago, I randomly read Anna Karenina for the heck of it, and loved it. I have since discovered that I have a bit of a weakness for sci-fi, so when I found out that my favorite Russian work was being meshed with robots and uber-technology? Oh yes ... Summer reading extraordinaire! 

The story is good, fast-paced and has a lot of twists and turns, some that I definitely was not expecting. It's been a while since I read the original, so I kept having to consciously stop myself from trying to remember the "real" story/where the deviations came in (other than the obvious addition of robots). I don't think you need to be familiar with Tolstoy's original to appreciate, or even read this version. Actually, I think it'd be best if you didn't have that background knowledge (yes, I really got that distracted trying to figure out how much the story was deviating.) That aside, I thoroughly enjoyed the read, and will definitely recommend it.

Book provided by my personal library.

The Bad Queen

The Bad Queen
Carolyn Meyer
Harcourt, 2010

Marie Antoinette has never been my favorite queen in history - mostly because I'm not a fan of French history in general. I picked up this book because the cover & title were intriguing, and I liked the way each chapter was titled by a rule. The story itself has tons of details regarding court life at Versailles, and has a feel of authenticity to it that is sometimes lacking in historical fiction. The read was easy, though by the end it was a bit more difficult to read - just knowing how it was going to end, you know? The story is told from Marie Antoinette's perspective, but switches over to her daughter, Marie Therese's voice right when things get bad. It's an interesting method, and it worked very well.

I liked Meyer's style, and will pick up her other titles in the 'Young Royals' series.

Book provided by my local library.

it's not summer without you

it's not summer without you
Jenny Han
Simon & Schuster, 2010

Wowzers, this was even better than the first one. A lot fewer flashbacks, and they were presented as in-text rememberings rather than separate chapter-separate flashbacks. There are a few chapters told from Jeremiah's perspective, but they are clearly marked and therefore not confusing. The story takes place over just barely a week, and goes where I didn't think it would but discovered I really wanted it to. I don't want to give away too much, because that makes it not as much fun to read -- but as I was reading along, I found myself wishing it'd turn out one way, and then, well, it pretty much did! There's a bit of mystery at the very very end, which leads me to think that there might be another book coming. I hope so! Defenitely worth reading, but read 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' first!

Book provided by my local library. 

A Song for Summer

A Song for Summer
Eva Ibbotson
Penguin (2007)

I'll be honest, I fell in love with the cover of this book (as well as several of Ibbotson's other novels) and the title. I drooled over it for a months online, hoping the library would pick it up. When nobody ever did, I bought it myself, to see if it's as good as it looks and to get a feel for Ibbotson's style. Oh man. I am hooked.

The premise of the story is interesting in and of itself - pre-WWII Europe, a handsome man with a secret, a beautiful girl with a heart of gold. I love WWI and WWII stories, so I was already interested. Even knowing it involved WWII ideas, which frequently become quite heart-gripping, I never expected to become so emotionally attached to this novel and/or its characters. In Ellen, I recognized some of myself - a desire to see and not become blinded by any one thing/love/person. In Marek -- well, quite simply, in Marek is frank examination of our very humanity. But not in a daunting way. Nothing about this tale is daunting. It feels real. I lived the story. I was caught unawares by the shifts and changes, I got to know the characters as they got to know each other and themselves. I thought about things while reading, and after. And I have made the decision to read more of Ibbotson's novels, because if they are all this good, it's worth tracking them down.

Book provided by my personal library.

Everything Austen II

Okay, I'm going to officially join a challenge! Woot!

The Everything Austen II challenge hosted by Stephanie's Written Word (as found by Becky's Book Reviews) ... It's right up my alley, dontcha think: 6 Austen, or Austen-themed, books - or movies - in the last six months of 2010. I can do this. Definitely.

So what 6 Austen-esque pieces will I use ... Hmm ... Good question. I've got a rather lengthy list of Austenia that I want to read, more than enough to choose from, so let me list those and I will fill in the blanks as I read/watch them, and we'll see what happens.

The Official Six:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

The List of Austenia:
Books:
Persuasion (Austen)
Emma (Austen)
Mansfield Park (Austen)
 I was Jane Austen's Best Friend (Harrison)
According to Jane (Brant)
Confessions of a Jane Austen Addict (Rigler)
Dearest Cousin Jane (Pitkeathley)
The Other Mr. Darcy (Fairview)
Emma & Knightley: Perfect Happiness in Highbury (Billington)
Writing Jane Austen (Aston)

Movies:
Persuasion
Bridget Jones's Diary

Top Ten Picks: Literary Crushes

Okay, saw this on Becky's Book Reviews, and loved it ... so, of course, had to create my own! So without further ado ... My top ten Literary Crushes, in no particular order:

Gilbert Blythe -- Who doesn't love Gil? He's human, he's real. He's just as much irritating boy as he is idealistic hero. He's sweet, but has a temper. He's practical and romantic. He is, in short, quite possibly one of the most perfect literary heroes worthy of crushing on, ever.

Almanzo Wilder -- Maybe this is just me, but Almanzo is definitely crush-worthy. I reread the books over the winter, and was struck anew at how perfectly beautiful the love story between Laura & Almanzo is. To me, it's the best love story - even better than Anne & Gil, Edward & Elinor, or Lizze & Darcy. Of course I crush on the boy who gentles wild horses with a whisper, and does what no other man in town is brave enough to do ...

Fitzwilliam Darcy -- Lest my dear Darcy feel slighted at being surpassed by a pioneer, let me clearly state he IS one of my literary crushes. He's arrogant and stubbornly holds to what he believes is right and true. But that makes him human. And for his humanity, and his [reluctant] understanding of his need to change, wins my heart and Lizzie's.

Han Solo -- Okay, so I'm thinking the one in the movies rather than the books I've never read, but since the movies came from the books, I feel perfectly justified including him. There's really no need to explain this one further.

Wes -- The 'hero' of The Truth About Forever, Wes is the boy who went through hell and earned a few rough spots on his record, but is undeniably endearing. He didn't let his past deny him his future. He made the tough choices. He wins.

Doc McNeil -- Neil McNeil was arrogant and opinionated. Which made him devastatingly vulnerable: when he fell, he fell hard. With all the charm of a mountain man, and the smarts of the brilliant doctor and researcher he is, Doc McNeil is definitely a man to revere.

The Isbjørn Prince -- An old Norse fairytale/folktale, 'East of the Sun, West of the Moon', recently retold in novels like East; Sun and Moon, Ice and Snow; Ice that EVERYONE needs to read ... the isbjørn (polar bear) prince has become my fairytale prince. Forget kissing frogs, I'm waiting on a polar bear.

[Prince] Christian -- His story is found in Once Upon a Marigold & Twice Upon a Marigold, and what wins Christian points is that he doesn't know he's a prince. He ran away from home because he wanted to explore and invent. And his inventions save the princess (Marigold) he loves, but thinks he can never have.

Ivanhoe -- For a while, my life was the story of Ivanhoe, but even before that I loved him ... Still convinced he married the wrong girl, but whatever. He's a boy, he can't be blamed [entirely] for not thinking through everything as adequately as he might should have.

Laurie -- Good ol' Laurie. Also known as Teddy. Formally acknowledged as Theodore Lawrence. Of Little Women-fame. I like Laurie, I really do. And I like that he grew up and realized which sister was really the lady of his heart - and that he had to grow up to earn her. He was a boy's boy, and then he became a man's man.

And that, I do believe, is ten. Apparently, looking over this list, not many current heroes catch my attention ... Interesting.

Odd and the Frost Giants

Odd and the Frost Giants
Neil Gaiman (HarperCollins 2009)

Ohmigoodness. I loved this book. And not just because I read it on a stickily hot 93* day either. It has all the elements of Norse myth that I love, and reads like a legend - but it's so obviously 'modern' in creature (language, etc.). Really, there's nothing to say but "I loved it" and "I hope Gaiman writes more of these tales". You're going to have to read it for yourself, because I don't want to give anything away. It's quick and easy, and very enjoyable.

Book provided by my local library

the summer i turned pretty

the summer i turned pretty
Jenny Han (Simon & Schuster, 2009)

I have seen a lot of reviews about this book, and was very excited when my library finally got a copy (and the sequel, which I'm on the wait list for!). It was worth the wait. It has all the 'warm fuzzy' elements a perfect summer beach read should have - it's even set AT the beach, added bonus - but also has a deeper storyline than just sand and sun. I was a little wary of the sudden flashbacks that appear, but quickly realized they were not detrimental to the story nor confusing. Han did an amazing job of working them is as if they were remembrances brought up in conversation - everything fit at just the right place, and there was an easy transition between past and present. Definitely looking forward to reading the newly-published sequel!

Book provided by my local library.

"campaign speeches"

In a world and society that places so much emphasis on doing what feels good in the moment, that rewards people for their sexuality - never thinking about what consequences (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual) it will have - there are few pro-Waiting voices to be heard above the noise. And if a voice does manage to be heard, all too often it is ridiculed and mocked.

One voice, however, actually earned attention and even respect for publicly declaring they were waiting until marriage. That voice belongs to Tim Tebow, senior starting Quarterback for the Florida Gators. On and off the field, Tebow is a role model for all ages - demonstrating character and class, dedication and passion. Including his public answering of the question - that YES, he IS saving himself for marriage. That's rare, and that is special.

Let's have our collective voice heard through the voice that the media seems to adore: lets support Tim Tebow. Nissan, as a primary sponsor of the Heisman Award, is given a vote. And they are using their vote to let the People speak - they have set up a website where people can vote DAILY for their Heisman candidate. The winner will receive Nissan's vote. In a contest where every vote/point counts, this has enormous ramifications.

http://promo.espn.go.com/espn/contests/theheismanvote/2009/index

and

Okay, so we all know that the media is not always a big fan of homeschooling, and frequently presents us in a not-so-positive light ... BUT, there is one homeschooler in particular that is in the media a lot - in a POSITIVE and EFFECTIVE and INFLUENTIAL manner. Who? Tim Tebow, senior starting QB of the Florida Gators. Homeschooled by his missionary parents, everyone was absolutely shocked when he appeared on the football field and was not only able to play - but played WELL. His off-field presence has been an amazing testimony to the fact that homeschoolers ARE socially adjusted and capable of functioning in the "real world" ... He's done good things for homeschoolers. Especially in Louisianna where they created the "Tim Tebow Bill" that allows homeschoolers to play sports at the high schools nearest their home. Awesome, right? :o)

Now, it's our turn to help him ... Nissan, as a primary sponsor of the Heisman award, is given a vote. And they in turn want to give the American people a say in determing the greatest football player in the country. So, they have a website where people can vote - and the player who earns the most will get Nissan's vote. In a contest where every single vote/point counts, this could be monumental!

Fellow Homeschoolers, lets unite behind Tim Tebow!
Visit the site: http://promo.espn.go.com/espn/contests/theheismanvote/2009/index
And remember: Vote DAILY!!!

My Life: The Movie Soundtrack

IF YOUR LIFE WAS A MOVIE, WHAT WOULD THE SOUNDTRACK BE?
So, here's how it works:
1. Open your library (iTunes, Winamp, Media Player, iPod, etc)
2. Put it on shuffle
3. Press play
4. For every section of the movie, type the song that's playing
5. When you go to a new question, press the next button
6. Don't lie and try to pretend you're cool...

Opening Credits: "1,000 Miles"
Mark Schultz

Waking Up: "Lord You Are"
Mark Schultz

First Day At School: "Give it Away"
Michael W Smith

Falling In Love: "Find Our Way Home"
Trans-Siberian Orchestra (I love that guy's voice ...)

Shower Scene: "My Confession"
Josh Groban

Fight Song: "Shouldn't Have Done That"
Josh Thompson (lol ...)

Breaking Up: "Magical Lasso"
Andrew Lloyd Webber (Phantom of the Opera)

Prom: "The Chase"
Man from Snowy River

Life's OK: "No One Believes in Me Anymore"
Keith Green (lol!)

Mental Breakdown: "Step by Step"
Rich Mullins

Driving: "Africa"
Toccatatones

Flashback: "The Princess Diaries Waltz"
John Debney

Getting Back Together: "Why Have You Brought Me Here/Raoul I've Been There"
Andrew Lloyd Webber (Phantom of the Opera)

Wedding: "Here am I, Send Me"
Keith Green

Sex Scene: "The Wonderful Cross"
Chris Tomlin & Matt Redman (ahm ... ?)

Birth of Child: "I am Sure"
JAKE

Final Battle: "I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)"
Steven Curtis Chapman

Funeral Song: "Adonai"
Avalon

End Credits: "Princess Lessons"
John Debney

**the first time I did it, I couldn't figure out why everything was coming back 'the Afters', since I only have 1 of their CDs on the iPod ... then I remembered I'd taken it off shuffle when I was listening to Phantom and never switched it back (I normally keep it shuffling)**

the Bard said it best

if these shadows have offended
think but this, and all is mended
that you have but slumbered here
while these visions did appear

-midsummer night's dream, Puck

something for Megs

So I've had this sitting in my inbox for ages, like at least 2 years and counting, and have finally decided to just post it here ... I thought of you, love, enjoy. :o)

FOOTPRINTS...A New Version

Imagine you and the Lord Jesus are walking down the road together. For much of the way, the Lord's footprints go along steadily, consistently, rarely varying the pace. But your footprints are a disorganized stream of zigzags, starts, stops, turnarounds, circles, departures, and returns. For much of the way, it seems to go like this, but gradually your footprints come more in line with the Lord's, soon paralleling His consistently. You and Jesus are walking as true friends!

This seems perfect, but then an interesting thing happens: Your footprints that once etched the sand next to Jesus' are now walking precisely in His steps. Inside His larger footprints are your smaller ones, you and Jesus are becoming one. This goes on for many miles, but gradually you notice another change. The footprints inside the large footprints seem to grow larger. Eventually they disappear altogether. There is only one set of footprints they have become one. This goes on for a long time, but suddenly the second set of footprints is back. This time it seems even worse! Zigzags all over the place. Stops. Starts. Gashes in the sand. A variable mess of prints. You are amazed and shocked.

Your dream ends. Now you pray:
"Lord, I understand the first scene, with zigzags and fits. I was a new Christian; I was just learning. But You walked on through the storm and helped me learn to walk with You."
"That is correct."
"And when the smaller footprints were inside of Yours, I was actually learning to walk in Your steps , following You very closely."
"Very good.. You have understood everything so far."
"When the smaller footprints grew and filled in Yours, I suppose that I was becoming like You in every way."
"Precisely."
"So, Lord, was there a regression or something? The footprints separated, and this time it was worse than at first."
There is a pause as the Lord answers, with a smile in His voice."You didn't know? It was then that we danced!"

To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven: A time to weep, a time to laugh, A time to mourn, and a time to dance.Ecclesiastes 3:1,4

my new fav lovesong

When Did You Fall
Chris Rice
From the album Amusing

You’re all smiles and silly conversation
As if this sunny day came just for you
You twist your hair, you smile and you turn your eyes away
C’mon, tell me what’s right with you
Now it dawns on me probably everybody’s talkin’
And there’s something here I’m supposed to realize
‘Cause your secret’s out, and the universe laughs at it’s joke on me
I just caught it in your eyes, it’s a beautiful surprise

Chorus:
When did you fall in love with me?
Was it out of the blue
‘Cause I swear I never knew it
When did you let your heart run free?
Have you been waiting long?
When did you fall in love with me?
When did you fall in love?

Make your way over here, sit down by this fool, and let’s rewind
C’mon, let’s go back and replay all our scenes
You can point out the hints, the clues, the twists and the smiles this time
All the ones that slipped by me
I bet my face is red, and you can hear my heart poundin’
Well I guess it don’t matter now that I realize
‘Cause baby I missed it then, but I can surely see you now
Right there before my eyes
You’re my beautiful surprise

When did you fall in love with me?
Was it out of the blue
‘Cause I swear I never knew it
When did you let your heart run free?
Have you been waiting long?
When did you fall in love with me?
When did you fall in love?

Was it at the coffee shop
Or that morning at the bus stop
When you almost slipped, and I caught your hand
Or the time we built the snowman
The day at the beach, sandy and warm
Or the night with the scary thunderstorm
I never saw the signs
Now we’ve got to make up for lost time
And I can tell now by the way that you’re looking at me
I’d better finish this song so my lips will be free

Have you been waiting long, when did you fall in love
I kept you waiting so long, when did you fall
Have you been waiting long
When did you fall in love with me
When did you fall in love?

YAYness!

So I was browsing some back entries, and skimming the review of "Truth About Forever" since it's been on my mind lately ... Seeing the link, I go to Sarah Dessen's homepage and find out the long-awaited new novel comes out in April!!!!! Huzzah! AND, on that same day, "Forever" hits the shelves in paperback form. Oh yes, in April, we're going to B&N. :-D

Sisterhood: The Movie

Ok, so we all know I love Brashare's "Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants" novels, and am on the edge of my seat waiting on Number Four to hit the shelves. And we also all know a movie was made, and came out last summer ... this movie, I got for Christmas, and have just watched - For the First Time - this evening.
Amazing.
When movies cling to the lines drawn by books, it makes me happy. Immensely happy. When those movies take it a step farther and eclipse the book, I get shivers up and down my spine and a goofy grin on my face - even when tears are turning my eyes turquoise and glossing my freckles with some natural shellac. lol ... Sisterhood is one of those movies.
Watch it!

i love this passage ...

Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc / Mark Twain
Part III, Chapter VI

And her eyes--ah, you should have seen them and broken your hearts. Have you seen that veiled deep glow, that pathetic hurt dignity, that unsubdued and unsubduable spirit that burns and smolders in the eye of a caged eagle and makes you feel mean and shabby under the burden of its mute reproach? Her eyes were like that. How capable they were, and how wonderful! Yes, at all times and in all circumstances they could express as by print every shade of the wide range of her moods. In them were hidden floods of gay sunshine, the softest and peacefulest twilights, and devastating storms and lightnings. Not in this world have there been others that were comparable to them. Such is my opinion, and none that had the privilege to see them would say otherwise than this which I have said concerning them.

I absolutely love this book ... Read it summer 2004, at Living Waters, and sooooo lived it. I'm giving serious consideration to doing it for my English senior sem. Whaddaya think?