My Very Un-Fairy Take Life/ My Epic Fairy Tale Fail by Anna Staniszewski–Blog Tour

My Very Un-Fairy Tale Life by Anna Stanizaewski

Published by Source Books/ Jabberwocky November 2011

Source: Provided by Publisher

Summary:

You know all those stories that claim fairies cry sparkle tears and elves travel by rainbow? They're lies. All lies.
I've spent my life as an official adventurer. I travel across enchanted kingdoms saving magical creatures and fighting horrible beasts that most of you think are only myths and legends. I've never had a social life. My friends have all forgotten me. And let's not even talk about trying to do my homework. So -- I'm done!! I'm tired and I want to go back to being a normal girl. But then along comes "Prince Charming" asking for help, and, well, what's a tired girl like me supposed to do?


My Thoughts:
    
 I was hooked in the first few pages. The main character is Jenny, a believable 12 yea r old who possesses this fantastic, quirky, sarcastic voice. I was immediately reminded of the character of Evie from Kiersten White’s Paranormalcy, only a younger version for a younger audience (minus the Pink Taser, although Jenny did have a pink golf ball).   I loved the twist that fairy tale creatures are not as lovely as they seem, who’d have guessed that Unicorns were so ill-tempered . Dealing with family, school and friend issues would be enough for anyone, but Jenny is also an Adventurer, hired by the mysterious “Committee”  who must rescue Kingdoms and defeat evil.   The story was well-paced and had enough action to occupy even the most restless reader. Great middle grade read for kids who have enjoyed books like Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine and How to Ditch Your Fairy by Justine Larbalestier.


 The publisher Sourcebooks is providing one copy for a lucky resident of the United States or Canada.
Please leave a comment on this post to enter.
Winner will be chosen at random on Monday April 15th and will have 48 hours to reply once notified.

Sorta Like a Rock Star by Matthew Quick

Sorta Like A Rock Star by Matthew Quick

Published by Little Brown Books for Young Readers May 2010

Source: Borrowed from the Library

Summary:

Amber Appleton lives in a bus. Ever since her mom's boyfriend kicked them out, Amber, her mom, and her totally loyal dog, Bobby Big Boy (aka Thrice B) have been camped out in the back of Hello Yellow (the school bus her mom drives). Still, Amber, the self-proclaimed princess of hope and girl of unyielding optimism, refuses to sweat the bad stuff. But when a fatal tragedy threatens Amber's optimism--and her way of life, can Amber continue to be the rock star of hope?

My Thoughts:

When someone in the book industry whose tastes and talents you admire tells you to read a book as its in their TOP TEN must reads of all time…you read it!! (Vikki) I'm so glad that I did. Aside from its multiple awards, this is one of those books that changes you. One that you think about long after finishing. One that is written for young adults, but resonates in the hearts of the adult reader as well. True? True.

I read and enjoyed Matthew Quick’s The Silver Linings Playbook, but for me, this book is on a whole other level. Amber is a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. She sees the good in each moment and every opportunity, despite her circumstances. She is real. She is raw and true to herself about her life but chooses to believe that there is better in store for her and for everyone else. I loved the quirkiness of her character,  and the way she interacted with the world around her .  It took me a few pages to get used to her method of speaking, her slang and short forms but once I did the story flew by and so did the time as I finished it in a sitting only to go back and read it again. 

Tissue will be needed while reading but it’s worth it. This book is all sorts of incredible.

Everyone needs to own a copy so I’m giving a copy away.

Rules:

Must be 13+ to enter

Live in a place the Book Depository ships

Not have read Sort a Like a Rock Star before (honour system)

Leave me a comment sharing the title of a book that has moved you like this one moved me.

Giveaway closes March 13th. Winner will have 48hrs to reply.

Book Review: Prodigy by Marie Lu

Prodigy by Marie Lu

Published by Putnam January 2013

384 pages

Source: ARC provided by the publisher for review

Summary:

June and Day arrive in Vegas just as the unthinkable happens: the Elector Primo dies, and his son Anden takes his place. With the Republic edging closer to chaos, the two join a group of Patriot rebels eager to help Day rescue his brother and offer passage to the Colonies. They have only one request—June and Day must assassinate the new Elector. 

It’s their chance to change the nation, to give voice to a people silenced for too long.
But as June realizes this Elector is nothing like his father, she’s haunted by the choice ahead. What if Anden is a new beginning? What if revolution must be more than loss and vengeance, anger and blood—what if the Patriots are wrong?

My Thoughts:

  I am a major fan of the Dystopian genre, something about it speaks to me as a reader. Even so, I was late to get on the “Legend” train so to speak as I only picked up Marie Lu’s first novel of the series (Legend) in early January of this year.  I fell in love with the characters immediately, and with the author’s writing style. I enjoyed reading the dual perspectives of June and Day though the alternating inks in the book became a little distracting.  I had high hopes for Prodigy, and was thrilled when asked to participate in a blog tour for it.

   Prodigy picks up exactly where Legend ended and we find Day and June searching for the Patriots in Vegas and hoping to be reunited with Tess. Tess is one of my favourite characters in the books. Resilient, forgiving and strong, Day needs her and has leaned on her much more than he realizes. Though the relationship between Day and June is sudden and complex it is written so well that it is  believable.  They trust one another when from an observers point of view they should be doing anything but trusting each other. Though not as action packed as the first novel, I was still completely engaged. I found the descriptions of the world they live in whether that be the Republic or the Colonies compelling, and we also discover in Prodigy what the catalyst was for the division in America.

One of the most fascinating aspects of this series is that you never really know who the “bad guy” is. The person who you believe to be the enemy isn’t always, and much depends on perspective. I think this theme through out the books is such a great comment on our reality.  I can’t even talk about that ending. (tears)

A gripping follow-up to Legend and I can  not wait for more. Highly recommended for fans of Delirium by Lauren Oliver, and Divergent by Veronica Roth.

Newbery and Caldecott Award Winners

The Newberry and Caldecott Award winners were announced yesterday by the American Library Association and I just had to give a special shout out for these authors!

Congrats to the amazingly talented author Jon Klassen for his Caldecott win for This is Not My Hat. You can read my thoughts and my interview with Jon here.

Congrats to the incredibly talented Katherine Applegate for winning the Newberry award for the masterpiece that is The One and Only Ivan. My thoughts on this book you must read:

                                                                                                              

Review: Everyday by David Levithan

Everyday by David Levithan

Published by Knopf Books for Young Readers 2012

336 Pages

Source: Borrowed from the Library

Summary:

   Every day a different body. Every day a different life. Every day in love with the same girl.

There’s never any warning about where it will be or who it will be. A has made peace with that, even established guidelines by which to live: Never get too attached. Avoid being noticed. Do not interfere.
It’s all fine until the morning that A wakes up in the body of Justin and meets Justin’s girlfriend, Rhiannon. From that moment, the rules by which A has been living no longer apply. Because finally A has found someone he wants to be with—day in, day out, day after day.

My Thoughts:

   Aside from Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist, I’m embarrassed to say that this is my only other David Levithan book.  It  definitely won’t be my last.  Everyday has a unique premise, A (who is genderless) is a seemingly lost soul that resides in someone different every day. It never knows who it will be next;  the people it might meet or the situations it might have to survive.  A meets Rhiannon and life as A had know it changes. A love story, complicated by the fact the his/her appearance is different every day. Can we love someone for only what's on the inside?

Completely compelling and as I turned the last page I felt there had to be more, I wanted more. He’s writing a sequel right? I became so use to A’s voice, I wasn’t ready to say goodbye. Days after reading I’m still thinking about it. Highly Recommended.

Quotes I LOVED:

“The clock always ticks. There are times you don't hear it, and there are times that you do.”

“There will always be more questions. Every answer leads to more questions. The only way to survive is to let some of them go.”

Jen's 2012 Book Giving Guide

    Christmas is quickly approaching and as I began my shopping today I thought perhaps you've started as well! Christmas is my favourite time of year and this year I am looking so forward to the smell of mulled apple cider, and our fresh pine trees, the sounds of my favourite Christmas album, and the crinkle of wrapping paper.

Below are my top recommendations for the book lover's in your life. If you shop through the link on Amazon you'll also be supporting this blog (and me) I hope the lists are helpful. It can be a challenge shopping for someone else. If you need a more personal recommendation just leave me a comment or send me an email.

Happy Shopping!

Be sure to share these lists with friends, grandparents and Aunts & Uncles!

Dear Teen Me–Feature 11

About this Feature:
Dear Teen Me (Edited by E. Kristen Anderson & Miranda Kenneally) includes advice from over 70 authors and I’m thrilled to be part of the blog tour. My tour stop date is Tuesday October 30th, and on that date I’ll be posting a review, hosting a giveaway and sharing my own Dear Teen Me letter. In the meantime, I was inspired by the book and decided to invite friends, fellow bloggers, and authors to write their own letter. Through out the month of October I’ll be  posting them here.




When is comes to friends this gal is one of my “Sunday Best”. We talk daily and I’m so very lucky to have her & her beautiful family in my life. Love her so so much.

Dear Teen Me,

You’re 12 and I’m 32, but I’m you. I swear. Don’t believe me? You have a piece of glass hidden in the pocket of your jean jacket. When you can’t get the voices of those bullies out of your head, you scratch away bits of your hands until you feel like you’ve punished yourself enough.

I can still hear echoes of their words all these years later, so I won’t simply tell you not to listen. I know it’s impossible not to listen and hard not to believe what they say. But don’t. I see those people sometimes and the regret is clear in their eyes. They are ashamed of themselves now. I ignore their friend requests on Facebook (Facebook is this really cool thing, if only you had it now!), because now I get to choose the influences in my life. I don’t need to be around people who set out to hurt me.

For now let me tell you that you are beautiful. You are the skinniest you’ll ever be. Your hair is unique and so gorgeous and you will learn to control it (stop brushing it and get some gel, trust me!). You don’t have acne forever.

Trust your choices, you are making good ones that are leading you down the right path. Celebrate your brain because it will take you places. Being the teacher’s favourite just means that an adult can see that you are a truly special person and all the others are just bullies heading nowhere.

Don’t be afraid of high school. They were some of the best years of my life and you’ll make great friends that last a lifetime. Our kids are playing together now. And the best part? When you meet this boy with big ears and a Soundgarden t-shirt, smile, stand tall and flick that curly hair of yours. It’s okay to love him that much. He’s a keeper and he wants no one but you. Forever.

So don’t give up. Go look at your sleeping baby brother. He needs you to stick around. Stick around for your two beautiful daughters. The experiences you are having now will teach you so much about how people should be treated and the words young girls need to hear from their mommy.

Trust me. Go buy some hair gel. Believe in yourself. Little boobs are spectacular too.
Take a deep breath, throw out that piece of glass and be yourself!
Love, you

Dear Teen Me–Feature

    Dear Teen Me (Edited by E. Kristen Anderson & Miranda Kenneally) includes advice from over 70 authors and I’m thrilled to be part of the blog tour. My tour stop date is Tuesday October 30th, and on that date I’ll be posting a review, hosting a giveaway and sharing my own Dear Teen Me letter. In the meantime, I was inspired by the book and decided to invite friends, fellow bloggers, and authors to write their own letter. Through out the month of October I’ll be be posting them here. I still have space for anyone else who would like to participate-just contact me through email or by leaving a comment on this post.

Today, I am featuring a letter written by Ginger from GReads! One of my favourite bloggers; She’s also responsible for designing the amazing graphic you see above. You can visit her tour stop on October 17th. Here is her letter:

Dear Teen Ginger,

Live in the moment; that's the best piece of advice I can give you. We tend to always want to get to that next step far too quickly and end up missing out on the here and now. Relish in the fact that your responsibilities are still limited and leave the worries to days far off in the distance. Take time to laugh with your friends. The kind of laugh that leaves your belly aching and your cheeks sore from smiling so hard, yet you find yourself doing it all over again. Pay attention to the nice boy who asks about tonight's homework assignment, but really he's just looking for an excuse to chat with you. Ignore the girls who spend too long in front of the mirror and gossip about people they don't even know. Study hard, read as much and as often as you can, get involved and volunteer.
These moments will come and go way too fast. They are moments you can't repeat, no matter how hard you try. Be happy with yourself and proud of the person your parents are still raising. Pay attention to the life that's happening around you, and the life you're still making. Being a teen can be rough, but I promise there will be tougher times ahead. So enjoy this moment and live it for what it is.

Love,
A more "seasoned" Ginger

Thanks so much G. It’s funny how when we’re teens we are in such a rush to “grow up”. Sometimes I long for the days where I had few if any responsibilities…..

Review: Wonder by R.J Palacio

Wonder by R.J Palacio

Published by Knopf Books for Young Readers

February 14th 2012 –313 pages

Source: Reviewed from personal copy

Summary:

“I won't describe what I look like. Whatever you're thinking, it's probably worse” 

August (Auggie) Pullman was born with a facial deformity that prevented him from going to a mainstream school—until now. He's about to start 5th grade at Beecher Prep, and if you've ever been the new kid then you know how hard that can be. The thing is Auggie's just an ordinary kid, with an extraordinary face. But can he convince his new classmates that he's just like them, despite appearances?

My Thoughts:

  Firstly, I can not believe this is a debut. Wow. just wow. What a powerful, unforgettable  story.  There is not too much to say other than this is a book for everyone. Within the pages we meet the the beautiful soul of Auggie as he experiences and adjusts to his first year going to a regular school. Told through various perspectives, as readers we learn so much about humanity, cruelty and kindness through the eyes of this young boy. If you share one book with your children, family, or friends –let it be this one.

Review: The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater

The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater

Published September 18th 2012

Scholastic Press –390 pages

Source: ARC provided by the publisher

Summary:

“There are only two reasons a non-seer would see a spirit on St. Mark’s Eve,” Neeve said. “Either you’re his true love . . . or you killed him.” 

   It is freezing in the churchyard, even before the dead arrive.
Every year, Blue Sargent stands next to her clairvoyant mother as the soon-to-be dead walk past. Blue herself never sees them—not until this year, when a boy emerges from the dark and speaks directly to her.
His name is Gansey, and Blue soon discovers that he is a rich student at Aglionby, the local private school. Blue has a policy of staying away from Aglionby boys. Known as Raven Boys, they can only mean trouble.
But Blue is drawn to Gansey, in a way she can’t entirely explain. He has it all—family money, good looks, devoted friends—but he’s looking for much more than that. He is on a quest that has encompassed three other Raven Boys: Adam, the scholarship student who resents all the privilege around him; Ronan, the fierce soul who ranges from anger to despair; and Noah, the taciturn watcher of the four, who notices many things but says very little.
For as long as she can remember, Blue has been warned that she will cause her true love to die. She never thought this would be a problem. But now, as her life becomes caught up in the strange and sinister world of the Raven Boys, she’s not so sure anymore.


My Thoughts:
    It should be no surprise that Maggie Stiefvater is one of my favourite authors.  The Raven Boys received a lot of buzz before the ARC release at ALA, and BEA and rightfully so, Maggie is a gifted storyteller.  She has this amazing ability to reinvent herself as a writer each time she begins a new series or writes a new book. The feel of The Raven Boys is completely different from her other novels, the pacing a little slower but from the beginning you know that it will build to something great.

I loved the premise of the novel and was immediately drawn to Blue’s matter a fact way of dealing with people and the world around her. Though Blue is the main character, Gansey is really at the centre of the story and is what propels the reader forward. He is obsessed with discovering the location Welsh King Owain Glendower, believing he rests along Ley Lines…areas with paranormal activity. *I became fascinated with the idea of Ley Lines and when I finished reading the book I began to research whether ley lines can be found in Ontario…apparently there is one about 4 hours away. One day I plan to take a road trip to see if I can locate it*

As much as I loved Blue and Gansey, I have to say that Adam was my favourite character. He’s the steadfast friend, who stands behind Gansey, adores Blue but has his own painful back story. There was just something about him that I could relate to.

Beautifully written with so many wonderful surprises throughout; there were twists that I definitely did not see coming. A riveting first book in an expected series of four.

Review: Envy by Elizabeth Miles

Envy by Elizabeth Miles

Published by Simon Pulse –September 4th 2012

Pages: 320

Source: ARC provided by the publisher

Summary:

The Furies are back in the second book of a chilling paranormal trilogy where revenge rules the day—and “sorry” isn’t going to cut it.

Spring is coming, and the ice is slowly melting in Ascension…revealing the secrets buried beneath.

     Emily Winters knows the Furies have roots in Ascension, Maine—but she’s about to discover that they’re deeper than she ever imagined. With the help of her new friend Drea, she vows to dig them out. But it’s hard to focus when she’s desperate to make up with JD, and to figure out why Crow, a mysterious Ascension High dropout, seems to be shadowing her.
     Meanwhile, new girl Skylar McVoy is determined to leave her own dark past behind. So she’s thrilled when popular Gabby takes her under her wing, and the stunning and sophisticated Meg offers to give her a major makeover. But everyone knows what happens to the vainest girl of all…

     It’s tempting to be naughty. But beware: the Furies are always watching, and their power grows stronger by the day.

My Thoughts:

  I was thrilled to receive Envy in my mailbox. I enjoyed Fury so much that I have been anticipating the release of Envy for some time.  It did not disappoint. Emily, Drea, Gabby and JD are back and we are also introduced to Skylar and Crowe. The story begins almost where Fury left off and unlike some “second” books, the transition is seamless.  The Furies are back as well and are more evil than ever (is that even possible?). There is something so sinister about how they are described. Breathtakingly beautiful but absolutely ruthless. I had this creepy feeling wash over me more than once while reading.

    Skylar is a fascinating character. New to Ascension she believes she now has “a chance to build a new life, to build a life”. We’re not told what has happened in the past to Skylar –just given glimpses-but we certainly get the sense it was anything but good. Skylar  becomes obsessed with Gabby and being popular, which leads her to making terrible choices. Though I didn’t agree with how she acted, I could totally relate to that feeling of wanting to be someone. To be important. I think many will relate to that feeling.
Envy was well paced and gripping. I couldn’t stop reading until it was finished and  I can not wait to revisit Ascension again in the 3rd and final novel even though the Furies scare the heck out of me.
Definitely Recommended!




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I’m thrilled to welcome Elizabeth Miles back to the blog for a Q&A about Envy:

1. I know the series is a planned trilogy- but is there a possibility that you might continue and write more in the series?

 I'm glad you want more! However, I don't think it's gonna happen, at least not right now. I've got a few other projects simmering on the back burner of my mind, and while it'll be bittersweet to bid farewell to the Furies (and more importantly, to Em, JD, Gabby, and the rest of the bunch), I'm excited for a new adventure.

2. Is the character of JD based on anyone you know? What about the character of Crow (my new fav)?

        Like I say in the acknowledgements of ENVY, I used to think a guy like JD was too good to be true -- and then I met my *fiancee* (!?!). JD isn't based on him, per se, but I can't help but think that a lot of the love and warmth that surrounds JD's character is influenced by the love and warmth I feel about my man, who happens to also be a) a little kooky, b) sometimes self-righteous, and c) cool with being a sensitive dude (three characteristics I'd definitely peg to JD).
As for Crow...He's an amalgamation of lots of bad boys I've known over the years (or wished I knew!), plus some classic TV guys like Sawyer from Lost, Dylan McKay from 90210, and Caleb from Pretty Little Liars. Now that I think about it, Crow also reminds me a little of an ex-boyfriend of mine, one who was a little angry at the world and took it out on himself.

3. I had a couple of revelations while reading, and I was taken by surprise by how much I related to the character of Skylar.I think many teens will understand where Skylar is coming from. Do you have any advice for teens on how to build confidence?

That's great to hear! Skylar is obviously very troubled, but I'm happy that her story resonated with you. Honestly, there were times during high school when I felt a lot like Skylar (though I obviously never took that angst to such an extreme). I think there are lots of young women who feel like the odds are stacked against them or that the social hierarchy is both arbitrary and unfair -- because it usually is! 
Lauren (Oliver, one of my closest and oldest friends) and I wrote letters to each other in the upcoming Dear Teen Me anthology (Zest Books, October); in part, they address the issue of building confidence and trusting oneself. I think it's important to remember that what happens in high school doesn't necessarily set the stage for the rest of your adult life. It's a time to try things out, discover what matters to you, make mistakes, and learn from them. It's hard to remember in the moment, but it's true: This too shall pass. The only way to lose your insecurities and gain confidence is to look inside yourself and find stuff you like. Affirmation sought from outsiders will dissipate; self-love stays the course.

4. I really felt the Furies "evil" intensify in this book, they were seriously creepy...anyway you can give us a sneak peak into what might happen next?

They really are so freaking scary sometimes, aren't they? The thing about the Furies is that they are totally ruthless. Once their evil is unleashed, they'll do anything to see it spread further. The battle reaches its final showdown in Book Three (ETERNITY, which I am currently finishing up)...Will Em lose the life she knows now? Can she fight the Furies on her own? Will she and JD finally make it? Are the Furies in Ascension for good?

5. I've become obsessed with author’s playlists for books recently- was there a song or (songs) that helped you while you wrote Envy?

The funny thing is, I cannot listen to music when I write -- I find it very distracting. However, as you know, I still like to create playlists for my books. Here's the one for Fury, and here are a few of the songs you'll find on my Envy playlist:
 
-- Blue Orchid by the White Stripes (Frantic energy and an orchid mention - it just clicks.)
-- Living Room by Tegan and Sara (First of all, I just love this song and Tegan and Sara in general. Also, there is something just a little creepy about this song...It's very intense.)
-- Myth by Beach House (I picture this being a song Em and Drea would listen to in the car.)
-- You Belong With Me by Taylor Swift (Obviously, this is like Skylar's theme song.)

Look for the full Envy playlist at elizabethmilesbooks.com (where you can also find the dreamy story of my recent engagement!).

Thanks so much Elizabeth!!

Book Review: This is Not a Test by Courtney Summers

This is Not A Test by Courtney Summers

Published by St. Martins Griffin June 2012

Pages: 323

Source: Borrowed from library

Summary:

It’s the end of the world. Six students have taken cover in Cortege High but shelter is little comfort when the dead outside won’t stop pounding on the doors. One bite is all it takes to kill a person and bring them back as a monstrous version of their former self. To Sloane Price, that doesn’t sound so bad. Six months ago, her world collapsed and since then, she’s failed to find a reason to keep going. Now seems like the perfect time to give up. As Sloane eagerly waits for the barricades to fall, she’s forced to witness the apocalypse through the eyes of five people who actually want to live. But as the days crawl by, the motivations for survival change in startling ways and soon the group’s fate is determined less and less by what’s happening outside and more and more by the unpredictable and violent bids for life—and death—inside. When everything is gone, what do you hold on to?

My Thoughts:

   I finished reading This is Not A Test a week ago and I still haven’t fully recovered. So much more than a ‘zombie’ book, it was hard to read for reasons that I did not expect. Usually characters in Zombie novels are running from death, not toward it, and as the story continues we learn that Sloane’s home life is scarier than most apocalyptic fiction. It was interesting that though Sloane had given up on living she turns out to be the one with the most courage….is it that she has nothing left to lose? There were so many pages filled with stand out, beautifully crafted writing:

One of My favourite scenes:

“The thing no one tells you about surviving, about the mere act of holding out, is how many hours are nothing because nothing happens. They also don’t tell you about how you can share your deepest secrets with someone, kiss them, and the next hour it’s like there’s nothing between you because not everything can mean something all the time or you’d be crushed under the weight of it. They don’t tell you how you will float through days. You autopilot, here but not really here, sleepwalking, and then every so often you are awake.
The next moment that matters turns out to be this one:    “Do you need anything?”

Not overly gory as zombie books go, but disturbing and intense just the same. Take complex characters and throw them into a life or death situation and it becomes a book that is impossible to put down. I couldn’t wait to get back to read this everyday and when I wasn’t reading it I couldn’t stop thinking about it.  This was my first Courtney Summers book but it won’t be my last.

Review: Sweet Evil by Wendy Higgins

Sweet Evil by Wendy Higgins

Published by Harper Teen May 2012

Source: Reviewed from copy borrowed from the library

Summary:

What if there were teens whose lives literally depended on being bad influences?
This is the reality for sons and daughters of fallen angels.
Tender-hearted Southern girl Anna Whitt was born with the sixth sense to see and feel emotions of other people. She’s aware of a struggle within herself, an inexplicable pull toward danger, but Anna, the ultimate good girl, has always had the advantage of her angel side to balance the darkness within. It isn’t until she turns sixteen and meets the alluring Kaidan Rowe that she discovers her terrifying heritage and her willpower is put to the test. He’s the boy your daddy warned you about. If only someone had warned Anna.
Forced to face her destiny, will Anna embrace her halo or her horns?

My Thoughts:

 I wasn’t sure what to expect when I picked this up. I thought I had enough of reading about fallen angels…. soooo not the case with this book. I’m not a fan of the cover but I love the title “Sweet Evil” because it speaks to the possible sides in all of us and the author Wendy Higgins does a phenomenal job depicting the inner struggle.
 Anna is different. She remembers every detail of her life, even right back to her birth. She can tell what people are feeling by their “auras”, but she has spent her life up to now, wondering why. Until she meets Kaidan Rowe. A dreamy, bad boy with all the right moves, she’s as drawn to him as he is to her, and he knows exactly what Anna is. These two have amazing chemistry together, and Kaidan might be one of my new favourite “book boyfriends” (le sigh)
  Aside from the yummy guy, the story centers on Anna as she tries to figure out her purpose. Just like us, she struggles with good and evil, in herself and in the world. I love books that surprise me. I expected to read this as an “escapism” read but it was much more. There were many moments where I unexpectedly paused to reflect on the meaning of the words, Anna’s situation and how it could be interpreted and relevant for my life. Recommended, and I’m looking forward to the next one.



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Top Ten Tuesday–Favourite Books I’ve Read During My Blog’s Lifespan

Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by the fab Broke and the Bookish.

Each week we are invited to post a top ten list about a variety of book related topics.

This week’s list:

Top Ten Favourite Books I’ve Read Since My Blog Began

This is a challenging list to create.

I’ve been blogging for 2 1/2 years and I’ve read A LOT of books in that time…..

Be sure to check out the reviews to see why these are my favourites.

The Virgin Cure by Ami McKay – Review

Delirium by Lauren Oliver – Review

The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting – Review

Divergent by Veronica Roth –Review

The Fault in our Stars by John Green – Review

The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater –Review

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate –Review

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern –Review

Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas –Review

Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky –not one I could review…..

Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi -Review

If I Stay by Gayle Forman -Review

What’s on your list? Do we have any in common?

Grim by Anna Waggener -Book Review

Today I’m thrilled to welcome a new guest poster on my blog. 

Daphne is 15, an avid reader and one of my favourite teens ever.

She has great taste in books!! Welcome Daphne!!!

Grim by Anna Waggener

Published June 2012

Source: Finished copy provided by the publisher

Summary:

   When Erika wakes up after a horrific car crash, she finds herself somewhere between earth and heaven, between life and death. She doesn't want to accept help from Jeremiah, who she's not sure she can trust, even as she finds herself drawn to him, following him into a grim city of souls. She's not sure who wants to help her and who wants to hurt her. And she's desperate to get back to her children. 

Shawn's never thought about having to shoulder the responsibility of caring for his young sister Megan and his reckless older sister. And he never imagined that the three of them would find themselves in a haunted wood, sometimes chased, sometimes assisted, never sure where they're headed.

Daphne’s Thoughts:

   GRIM by Anna Waggener, is an incredible book combining myths and legends to produce a truly vicious world where the dead live. Pulled in by its twists, turns, and unsaid truths, the reader will be driven to finish this book with bated breath. Waggener creates a vivid scenario with a cast of authentic characters, bewitching and readily identifiable. The novel weaves a haunting tale by interspersing intriguing nuggets of the past within an unfolding storyline. GRIM is both enchanting and horrifying in turns. The reader will be forced to contemplate the events within its pages long after the last page is turned, eagerly anticipating her next novel.



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Liar & Spy by Rebecca Stead–Book Review

Liar & Spy by Rebecca Stead

Published by Random House Children’s Books

August 7th 2012

Source: Finished copy provided by the publisher

Summary:

When seventh grader Georges (the S is silent) moves into a Brooklyn apartment building, he meets Safer, a twelve-year-old coffee-drinking loner and self-appointed spy. Georges becomes Safer's first spy recruit. His assignment? Tracking the mysterious Mr. X, who lives in the apartment upstairs. But as Safer becomes more demanding, Georges starts to wonder: how far is too far to go for your only friend?

My Thoughts:

I have to begin by saying that Rebecca Stead is an incredibly talented author. I would read anything by her. She crafts memorable stories and her characters come to life. I loved the twists and unexpected turns in this book.  It’s geared towards the middle grades but still relevant for teens and adults. Liar & Spy tells the story of Georges (silent s) as he moves into an apartment after his dad has been “downsized” at work. There, he begins an unpredictable and at times frustrating friendship with Safer.

Georges is named after famed painter Georges Seurat. Seurat was a pointillist and  created Masterpieces using only dots of colour. The author used this brilliantly as she highlighted the contrast between seeing what is right in front of you, and seeing the big picture throughout the book:

(Georges Seurat, A Sunday on La Grande Jatte, 1884)

I also have to comment on the messages that went back and forth between Georges and his mom through the Scrabble tiles… I loved this aspect so much.

Liar &Spy has so much heart as we watch these boys cope with their lives in seemingly different ways. Touching on themes of bullying, perseverance, overcoming fears, risk taking and family; to say I was moved by this book would be an understatement. Fans of Rebecca Stead’s award winning novel “When You Reach Me” will fall in love with this one as well.

Highly Recommended, This is one to buy for your reading shelf at home. It would also make a great read aloud for a family to share together.

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Once Every Never by Lesley Livingston–Book Review

Once Every Never by Lesley Livingston

Published by Penguin Canada July 2011

Source: Personal Copy

Summary:

Clarinet Reid is a pretty typical teenager. On the surface. She’s smart, but a bit of a slacker; outgoing, but just a little insecure; not exactly a mischief-maker, but trouble tends to find her wherever she goes. Also? She unwittingly carries a centuries-old Druid Blood Curse running through her veins.
Now, with a single thoughtless act, what started off as the Summer Vacation in Dullsville suddenly spirals into a deadly race to find a stolen artifact, avert an explosive catastrophe, save a Celtic warrior princess, right a dreadful wrong that happened centuries before Clare was even born, and if there’s still time, literally, maybe even get a date.
This is the kind of adventure that happens to a girl once every never.

My Thoughts:

  I adore Lesley Livingston’s writing style, and if you’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting Lesley in person you know how hilariously funny she is. Her sense of humour is found through out the book in the voices of Clare and her best friend…Allie.   Spending her Summer in England, Clare (short for Clarinet) discovers she is a part of a century old curse and travels through time to where the Celtic Druids were at war with the invading Romans.
I found the scenes that centred around this time in history fascinating and immediately starting researching the name Boudicca and Celtic Druids when I finished. For me as a reader, that is a sign of a great read. One that inspires you to read more about it…one that takes you to different places.
Clare is a great character. She’s clever, a little snarky and just “girly” enough.  Her and Al (Allie) make a fabulous pair and it’s great how they stick together no matter what. I have to say that the love interests in this story weren’t too shabby either. Celtic Warrior Connal with his rippling muscles and bravery was a great contrast to the good looking but “brainy” Milo. Hmmm… who to choose?

I really enjoyed Once Every Never and was thrilled to find out that Lesley is working on a follow-up.



For more information about Lesley and her books check out  http://www.lesleylivingston.com/
 or Follow her Facebook Page

Epic Fantasy: Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

Published by Bloomsbury August 7th 2012

Reviewed from ARC provided by the publisher

Summary:

After serving out a year of hard labour in the salt mines of Endovier for her crimes, 18-year-old assassin Celaena Sardothien is dragged before the Crown Prince. Prince Dorian offers her her freedom on one condition: she must act as his champion in a competition to find a new royal assassin.
Her opponents are men—thieves and assassins and warriors from across the empire, each sponsored by a member of the kings council. If she beats her opponents in a series of eliminations, she’ll serve the kingdom for three years and then be granted her freedom.
Celaena finds her training sessions with the captain of the guard, Westfall, challenging and exhilarating. But she’s bored stiff by court life. Things get a little more interesting when the prince starts to show interest in her... but it’s the gruff Captain Westfall who seems to understand her best.
Then one of the other contestants turns up dead... quickly followed by another. Can Celaena figure out who the killer is before she becomes a victim? As the young assassin investigates, her search leads her to discover a greater destiny than she could possibly have imagined.

Thoughts:

  This is a book I just wanted to sit inside and soak in. It has all the things I look for in a great read; amazing world building, strong character development, swoon worthy love interests and a kick-ass protagonist. Sarah Maas is a talented story teller, the book came alive for me and I did not want this story to end. Celaena is a complex and driven character. A perfect combination of strength and love, though she’s been taught to be a ruthless assassin, she has a softer side and doesn’t loose the girl within. (also a bookworm..-loved that)
  While reading I kept saying to my husband… why can’t I be more like her? He of course asked why I would want to be a ruthless assassin :) It’s not that I want to become an assassin, (maybe if my library gig doesn’t work out) but I would like to be stronger, (and maybe even a little kick-ass). Celaena  knows herself, she accepts her fears and moves to face them. She recognizes fears and strengths in others as well. She’s uses the pain of her past to propel and motivate her to move forward. She has quickly become one of my favourite book characters (ever) and I can not wait to read more of her story. I can not wait to place this book in the hands of every teen and adult I know.

Highly Recommended. One to buy so you can re-read over and over again.



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Book Review: First Day On Earth by Cecil Castellucci

First Day On Earth by Cecil Castellucci

Published by September 2011 by Scholastic Press

Reviewed from finished copy provided by publisher.

Summary

A startling, wonderful novel about the true meaning of being an alien in an equally alien world.
"We are specks. Pieces of dust in this universe. Big nothings.
"I know what I am."
Mal lives on the fringes of high school. Angry. Misunderstood. Yet loving the world -- or, at least, an idea of the world.
Then he meets Hooper. Who says he's from another planet. And may be going home very soon.

My Thoughts
  Mal is an outsider. He sits on the outskirts of activity at school. At home he is the care taker of his alcoholic mom. He also believes he was abducted by Aliens, left only with the scattered memories of those experiences. He’s alone in a world he feels he can not escape.
“There is a question that I always ask myself. I ask it many times during the day. How far away from here is far away enough? How far away would I be willing to go? My answer is always the same. You? I’d bet you’d think the moon was far away enough. I say the moon is still too close”pg16
  First Day On Earth is a short read; but it’s a powerful one. A mere 148 pages, it packs in such strength, and beauty and rawness. I think so many can relate to that feeling of not belonging, and the author captures it perfectly here. I love Cecil Castellucci’s writing style.
A book for teens and adults alike, there is much to experience and learn from this amazing novel.

Never Fall Down by Patricia McCormick

Never Fall Down by Patricia McCormick

Published by Harper Collins May 2012

Reviewed from ARC provided by the publisher 

Summary:

When soldiers arrive at his hometown in Cambodia, Arn is just a kid, dancing to rock 'n' roll, hustling for spare change, and selling ice cream with his brother. But after the soldiers march the entire population into the countryside, his life is changed forever. Arn is separated from his family and assigned to a labor camp: working in the rice paddies under a blazing sun, he sees the other children, weak from hunger, malaria, or sheer exhaustion, dying before his eyes. He sees prisoners marched to a nearby mango grove, never to return. And he learns to be invisible to the sadistic Khmer Rouge, who can give or take away life on a whim.
One day, the soldiers ask if any of the kids can play an instrument. Arn's never played a note in his life, but he volunteers. In order to survive, he must quickly master the strange revolutionary songs the soldiers demand--and steal food to keep the other kids alive. This decision will save his life, but it will pull him into the very center of what we know today as the Killing Fields. And just as the country is about to be liberated from the Khmer Rouge, Arn is handed a gun and forced to become a soldier. He lives by the simple credo: "Over and over I tell myself one thing: never fall down."

My Thoughts:
“Over and over I tell myself one thing: never fall down”. -This book is based on the true experiences of Arn Chon-Pond and his experience when the Khmer Rouge came into power. It is tragic, and disturbing. I am embarrassed to say that I had no idea this happened. I was young during this time period but still-while I was reading I kept asking myself –how did I not know about this? Sometimes I feel like I live with blinders on, which is one of many reasons why books like this need to be written, why we need to be reminded of the horror that can happen.  Books like this, like Sold or like The Boy and Striped Pyjamas, leave me shaken and upset but I think that's the point right? It's so easy to get caught up in our "western lives" that we can forget and/or ignore the atrocities that have happened and continue to happen.
What makes his story even more incredible is not just that Arn survived but that he has done incredible things with his life since. He continues to give back to his community and country.
I didn’t give this book a “rating” on GoodReads...how can I possible rate something like this?? Brilliantly written, this book is a reminder of how lucky I am to have the love of family and a roof over my head. A bed to sleep in. A silent night, without screaming or gun shots or fear of losing someone I love. It makes the worries of my day, small and insignificant.
An important read. Destined to be an award winner.

Other titles about the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia: 
A Song for Cambodia - by Michelle Lord
First they Killed My Father - by Loung Ung
When Broken Glass Floats - by Chanrithy Him