Reading Extensively

Top Ten Books For Book Clubs

2012-01-31T07:24:00.000-05:00

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme created at The Broke and the Bookish. There is a new subject each week and this week's topic is "Top Ten Books For Book Clubs".

Some of the books on this list are books I've actually read as part of a book discussion group. All of them have topics that would be good for discussion. Even if it is a book that your book group ends up hating, there will still be plenty to discuss.

I've learned that it is better to look for books with complicated themes, conflicted characters, or difficult situations over books that are just fun to read (like Sophie Kinsella's Confessions of a Shopaholic-an epic fail as a book discussion pick and I chose it!). The worst kind of book discussion is one where the members just say "it was a good book" but can't really find anything worth discussing about it.

1. Girl in Translation by Jean Kwok

Girl in Translation was a huge hit with my current book groups. They all loved the book and found plenty to say about Kim, her tough situation, and her horrible Aunt Paula. Themes and topics we discussed: parent/child relationships, sibling relationships, immigration, poverty, sweatshops, duty to your family, education

2. Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult

Jodi Picoult's books are always great for discussion. I was in a group that discussed this book about school shootings and bullying and we all thought it was a riveting book. What makes Picoult's books perfect for book groups is that she usually makes the reader think about both sides to a story, there is usually plenty of drama and conflicted characters. In addition to this one, My Sister's Keeper and Sing You Home would also be good picks.

3. The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

I love to read books set in other countries so my book group picks tend to feature other cultures. This very popular book is what I'd call "book club gold". It will provoke strong emotions in the reader. Another great pick especially for women's book groups is A Thousand Splendid Suns which looks at the lives of women in Afghanistan.

4. Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys

While none of my book groups have discussed this book yet, I think Between Shades of Gray would be great for discussion because of the characters, the difficult choices they face, and the historical significance. Though it is a YA book I think it would have tremendous crossover appeal.

5. The Help by Kathryn Stockett

Though I haven't participated in a book discussion with this book (too many holds on library copies!) The Help is another book I'd consider "book club gold". I know the discussion would certainly be popular.

6. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

This book would provoke such great discussions and with more and more adults finally picking up the series I hope to someday do a book discussion of The Hunger Games. Unfortunately there are so many holds on library copies that I think I'd have to purchase multiple copies of the book just for the discussion group.

7. When She Woke by Hillary Jordan

While this was not one of my favorite books, the controversial story would be great for discussion. It would certainly provoke strong reactions from the readers.

8. Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson

This is such a popular book with book discussion groups that it may be awhile before my groups will be able to read it. I loved Major Pettigrew's dry humor but what makes for good discussion is the relationship between Major Pettigrew and Mrs. Ali as well as the theme of change vs. tradition.

9. Sister of My Heart by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

I've read this with two of the book discussion groups I've belonged to over the years. It is one of my favorites. Themes for discussion: sisterhood, what defines a family, love vs. duty

10. Someone Knows My Name by Lawrence Hill

This book does not get a lot of attention in the States but it would be perfect for discussion as it is set here. The novel takes a look at the history of slavery through the eyes of a young girl who is captured from her village in Africa and sold to a Southern plantation. It can be pretty dark reading at times but is ultimately inspiring and uplifting.

It's Monday, What Are You Reading (94)

2012-01-29T20:33:00.000-05:00

It's Monday, What Are You Reading is a fun weekly meme hosted by Sheila at Book Journey where we share what we've read and reviewed over the past week and what we plan to read next.

At first I didn't think I'd be able to finish a single book this week but thankfully The Buffalo Soldier became engrossing and I also discovered the very funny Spying in High Heels.

If you are a fan of Downton Abbey, don't forget to check out my Top 10 Books I Want to Read Because of Downton Abbey post.

Books read:

The Buffalo Soldier by Chris Bohjalian

This is my afternoon book club's January pick. I have never read a Chris Bohjalian book before and while it took me a little while to get into the story, I really liked it in the end. It reminded me of Jodi Picoult's writing minus the courtroom drama. I definitely plan to check out some of his other books.

Spying in High Heels by Gemma Halliday

This is a book I got when it was free for Kindle last year. On a whim I started reading it and I got sucked right into the story and ended up buying a book bundle with the first 5 books so I can read more of the series. I have to admit that I enjoyed the romance and humor a little more than the mystery with this one :)

Books reviewed:

The Emerald Atlas by John Stephens

Currently reading:

A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini

I loved this book when I read it back in 2007 but now I am finding that I have to force myself to read it not because it isn't good (it is fantastic) but because it is depressing reading and not what I am in the mood for right now. Unfortunately it is my evening book discussion group's January pick and our meeting is on Tuesday. Maybe I can make due with a Cliff's Notes kind of refresher...

The World of Downton Abbey by Jessica Fellowes

I am slowly reading a little of this at a time in between all the books I "have to" read. I do love this series and can't wait to watch Episode 4 of Season 2.

What I might read next depending on my mood:

How to Save a Life by Sara Zarr

Ripper by Amy Carol Reeves

The Springsweet by Saundra Mitchell

Killer in High Heels by Gemma Halliday

In My Mailbox (73)

2012-01-29T09:03:00.000-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren to share what books you received for review, purchased, or checked out from the library during the past week.

For review:

The Springsweet by Saundra Mitchell

I received this ARC through the Amazon Vine program. I really liked The Vespertine so I have high hopes for this companion novel about Zora.

A Lady Cyclist's Guide to Kashgar by Suzanne Joinson

I first came across this book through Shelf Awareness and when I saw it was available through NetGalley I requested it.

Purchased:

Spying in High Heels by Gemma Halliday

I've already finished this first book in the High Heels mystery series and while it has some flaws, it was still a fun book so when I saw that the first 5 books were available in a bundle for $2.99 for Kindle, I went ahead and bought it.

Killer in High Heels by Gemma Halliday

Undercover in High Heels by Gemma Halliday

Alibi in High Heels by Gemma Halliday

Mayhem in High Heels by Gemma Halliday

From the library:

Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? by Mindy Kaling

The sample I requested for my Kindle was so funny that I decided I had to give this book a try. Admittedly I've never seen The Office but I think I will enjoy the book anyway.

The Bungalow by Sarah Jio

I thought The Violets of March was excellent so I knew I wanted to read The Bungalow. It sounds like it offers both mystery and romance, two of my favorite things in books.

The House at Riverton by Kate Morton

I have wanted to read this book for years but never got around to it. Now with my love for Downton Abbey, I thought it was time to pick up The House at Riverton. I am also hoping one of my book discussion groups will pick it for our March book.

The Wilder Life by Wendy McClure

I grew up as a big fan of the Little House on the Prairie books and the Michael Landon TV series. When I heard about this book, I thought it sounded like something I'd really appreciate.

Have you read any of these books?

Which ones sound interesting to you?

Review: The Emerald Atlas

2012-01-26T08:00:00.001-05:00

The Emerald Atlas

Publication date: April 5, 2011

My review:

Kate was only four years old on the Christmas Eve that she, her two year old brother Michael and baby sister Emma were separated from their parents and sent to an orphanage. Kate has vague memories of that night but what she does remember is that her mother said they'd be together again and that she loved them. Kate also remembers the promise she gave to her mother to keep her brother and sister safe. Now ten years later after going from orphanage to orphanage, the siblings find themselves sent off to Cambridge Falls and the orphanage of Doctor Stanislaus Pym. It is here that they find out the truth about themselves and their parents' disappearance, a mysterious prophecy, and a powerful atlas that someone would stop at nothing to possess...

The Emerald Atlas has been compared to Harry Potter and Lemony Snickett's A Series of Unfortunate Events. I'd say the book is more like the latter with a dash of The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe thrown in for good measure. I found it to be an engrossing fantasy with dastardly villains, surprising plot twists, magic, humor, and fun characters. The story has familiar elements but at the same time manages to somehow be original.

I like that the main characters are pretty ordinary, unlike Lemony Snickett's Baudelaire siblings who are all unusually intelligent for their age. Kate, Michael, and Emma's strengths are their devotion to each other, their belief in their parents' love for them, and their desire to do the right thing. At the beginning of the novel it feels like Kate is the main character but she does share equal space with Michael and Emma later on. Kate is protective and mothering which is understandable given their circumstances. Michael is bookish and he has a mania for dwarves, constantly quoting from a guide to dwarves-a prized possession from his dad. Emma is feisty and has a temper. She is a little sister trying to prove she is grown up too. At times the characters reminded me of the siblings in A Series of Unfortunate Events or even the interaction between Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy from the Chronicles of Narnia.

The villains are pretty creepy, especially the Countess. The Countess reminded me a little bit of the White Witch of Narnia. She couldn't turn people to stone but she could use her voice to control people and create illusions. She derived pleasure from hurting people, even kids. She was quite a nasty piece of work. Her nemesis, Dr. Pym, is like a mix of Dumbledore and Gandalf. He is equally powerful but in a quiet way. The other main character is Gabriel, a villager who is brave enough to stand up to the Countess when other adults wouldn't.

Overall, I thought this was a great start to the series. I was originally drawn to the book because of the reviews comparing it to such great fantasy novels but while The Emerald Atlas can't live up to Harry Potter it is still a good story. I particularly enjoyed the fantasy elements like the dwarves and screechers, the time travel, and the mystery surrounding the Atlas. The author is a screenwriter and perhaps that is why I could easily see this being adapted to film. I would suggest this book to fans of MG and YA fantasy or adventure.

Readalikes: A Series of Unfortunate Events series by Lemony Snickett, Inkheart by Cornelia Funke, The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

Waiting on Wednesday (81)

2012-01-25T06:00:00.001-05:00

"Waiting on" Wednesday is a weekly meme to discuss upcoming books we can't wait to get our hands on. Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week, I'm waiting on:

Home Front by Kristin Hannah

Publication date: January 31, 2012

Description from Goodreads:

In her bestselling novels Kristin Hannah has plumbed the depths of friendship, the loyalty of sisters, and the secrets mothers keep. Now, in her most emotionally powerful story yet, she explores the intimate landscape of a troubled marriage with this provocative and timely portrait of a husband and wife, in love and at war.

All marriages have a breaking point. All families have wounds. All wars have a cost. . . .

Like many couples, Michael and Jolene Zarkades have to face the pressures of everyday life---children, careers, bills, chores---even as their twelve-year marriage is falling apart. Then an unexpected deployment sends Jolene deep into harm’s way and leaves defense attorney Michael at home, unaccustomed to being a single parent to their two girls. As a mother, it agonizes Jolene to leave her family, but as a solider she has always understood the true meaning of duty. In her letters home, she paints a rose-colored version of her life on the front lines, shielding her family from the truth. But war will change Jolene in ways that none of them could have foreseen. When tragedy strikes, Michael must face his darkest fear and fight a battle of his own---for everything that matters to his family.

At once a profoundly honest look at modern marriage and a dramatic exploration of the toll war takes on an ordinary American family, Home Front is a story of love, loss, heroism, honor, and ultimately, hope.

I've never read any of Kristin Hannah's books before but this one just sounds too good to pass up. I have a feeling it will be a book with emotional impact that will make readers think.

Top Ten Tuesday: Downton Abbey Edition

2012-01-24T11:08:00.000-05:00

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme created at The Broke and the Bookish. There is a new subject each week and this week's topic is a freebie so I picked "Top Ten Books I Want to Read Because of Downton Abbey".

I am a huge fan of the ITV/PBS series Downton Abbey. I've been thinking of starting my own Downton Abbey reading challenge even though January is almost over. For the time being, here are some books I want to read because of the show.

For those of you not "in the know", Downton Abbey is set in the early 20th century and deals with the social changes coming because of WWI and progress. It explores the relationship between the servant class and the aristocratic Crawley family as well as changes to society like the right for women to vote. There is also humor, romance, secrets, and plenty of drama. Now on to my list!

Top Ten Books I Want to Read Because of Downton Abbey:

1. The House at Riverton by Kate Morton

This novel revolves around the life of a house maid at a grand estate whose live becomes embroiled in secrets when a poet commits suicide at the house and the aristocratic daughters of the house are somehow involved.

2. The World of Downton Abbey by Jessica Fellowes

Of course I want to read this because it is both a behind the scenes guide to the show as well as a historical look at what life would be like at a home like the fictional Downton Abbey.

3. The American Heiress by Daisy Goodwin

This novel features a main character named Cora who is a wealthy American who travels to England to marry an impoverished but titled aristocrat. Ring any bells?

4. The Dressmaker by Kate Alcott

While part of this book takes place aboard the Titanic, the main character is servant to Lady Duff Gordon.

5. The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro

I actually want to see the movie more than I want to read the book but both sound interesting. A butler looks back on his many years of service to a family and realizes his regrets.

6. The Buccaneers by Edith Wharton

Like The American Heiress, this book is about wealthy young American women who travel to Europe to find husbands with titles. While I've read Ethan Frome, I've never read any of Edith Wharton's other works and this sounded interesting.

7. Below Stairs by Margaret Powell

This is the memoir that inspired the popular series Upstairs, Downstairs which serves as inspiration for Downton Abbey.

8. The Edwardians by Vita Sackville-West

Vita Sackville-West lived during Edwardian times and this classic novel is the story of Sebastian, the heir to an estate and his sister Viola.

9. Up and Down Stairs by Jeremy Musson

This nonfiction book takes a look at the history of servants from the Middle Ages on and it just sounds fascinating to me.

10. What the Butler Winked At by Eric Horne

Aside from loving the title, Eric Horne served as a butler from the 1860s to the end of WWI and I've heard this memoir is really well written and full of interesting information.

Have you watched Downton Abbey?

What do you think of my list?

It's Monday, What Are You Reading (93)

2012-01-22T20:50:00.000-05:00

It's Monday, What Are You Reading is a fun weekly meme hosted by Sheila at Book Journey where we share what we've read and reviewed over the past week and what we plan to read next.

I only finished two books this past week but I really liked both of them. One was laugh out loud funny and the other one was pretty sad and sweet. This week I am catching up on book discussion group books as my meeting is next Tuesday.

I also just celebrated my 2nd Blogoverary (January 22nd). I just don't know where the time has gone!

Books read:

I've Got Your Number by Sophie Kinsella

I really liked this book and while I usually prefer her Shopaholic books, I thought this one was better than Mini Shopaholic.

The Lost Wife by Alyson Richman

I didn't realize when I started reading this book that it was based on true stories. There are real historical figures in it and the love story was inspired by a true story that the author heard about a wedding where the bride's grandmother and groom's grandfather meet and realize they know each other and were married before WWII. That scene is actually how the novel starts out.

Books reviewed:

The Iron Knight by Julie Kagawa

Currently reading:

The Buffalo Soldier by Chris Bohjalian

This is a book discussion book and I've never read anything by the author before. Hopefully I will enjoy it.

I am a big fan of Downton Abbey and I am enjoying making my way through this book. It is full of interesting information about what it would have been like to live at a place like Downton Abbey in Edwardian times.

What I plan to read next:

A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini

This is another book discussion book but one I read in 2007 so I need a refresher.

Wonderland Creek by Lynn Austin

I have had this book checked out from the library for a long time and I need to read it this week or next week or I won't read it at all.

How to Save a Life by Sara Zarr

I have heard good things about How to Save a Life and I have a copy from the library and it is also something I need to review for NetGalley (I requested it but forgot to download it to my Kindle till it was too late).

In My Mailbox (72)

2012-01-21T21:39:00.000-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren to share what books you received for review, purchased, or checked out from the library during the past week.

For review:

The Winter Palace by Eva Stachniak

There has been a lot of buzz about this historical fiction novel featuring Catherine the Great. I am eager to give it a try. I am definitely interested in learning more about her.

The Baker's Daughter by Sarah McCoy

I loved the premise of this one. I really like books that involve history and secrets and combine the past with the present in some way.

The Maid of Fairbourne Hall by Julie Klassen

I did not request this book but I did like one of Klassen's other books (The Apothecary's Daughter). This one is supposed to have something of an upstairs/downstairs story with a lady hiding out from her horrible fiance by posing as a maid in the house of a man she once rejected. Hmm, I think I can see where this is going...

Quiet by Susan Cain

I was excited to get this from NetGalley. I will probably end up buying a finished copy at some point (I haven't read it yet but I know I will find it interesting as an introvert).

Purchased:

The World of Downton Abbey by Jessica Fellowes

This is a beautiful book. I haven't had a chance to peruse it properly but I love it already. If you are a fan of Downton Abbey, I think you'd enjoy it. There are lots of lovely stills from the show and historical tidbits about life in Edwardian England. It came with a nice bookmark from Masterpiece Classic.

From the library:

Running the Rift by Naomi Benaron

I am super excited about this book. I first heard about it last year in a webinar about book discussion groups and it has received a lot of positive reviews.

The Descendants by Kaui Hart Hemmings

I think this book is going to become even more popular as the Oscar season gets underway. I did not get the movie tie-in cover since I got it from a library but I like this picture because it has George Clooney on it and who doesn't like to look at George?

Review: The Iron Knight

2012-01-19T08:00:00.032-05:00

The Iron Knight

By Julie Kagawa

Publication date: October 25, 2011

My review:

In this final installment of the Iron Fey series, Ash goes on a difficult quest to find a way to return to Meghan. With the help of Puck and Grimalkin, he sets out on what may only be a fool's errand to find the end of the world. Along the way, he must deal with the ghosts of his past and confront his worst enemy-himself.

The Iron Knight lacks much of the intensity of The Iron Queen. Perhaps it is the absence of Meghan or the threats of war present in the other novels. Instead the book is more internalized in the beginning and focuses on Ash and Puck's history as well as Ash's quest. At first I was disappointed with the introduction of a new character who felt like a third wheel or a dead weight. Fortunately by the end of the book, the need for this character was explained though I still think the character was annoying. There were also some odd moments with dream sequences that I didn't care for and a long segment showing Ash what his life could be like that I thought was overly drawn out. I struggled with getting into the story at first. It didn't hook me right away like I expected it to. Maybe that is because it was from Ash's point of view or because I just got tired of all the Puck/Ash banter. There were times when the story lagged and it was all too easy to put the book down. Thankfully once the quest begins in earnest, the action held my interest.

What I liked about The Iron Knight was that it explored Ash's character and his growth from the person he was long ago to the person he is now and how part of the changes in his character are due to his grudging friendship with Puck and his relationship with Meghan. I also liked that there are consequences to the decisions Ash must make. In some books, that is glossed over but thankfully that was not the case here. It gives more meaning to Ash's choices.

In the end, I am glad I kept reading the book because it did get better. I think the book (and the series in general) is very creatively written. There are some interesting creatures and ideas that are explored relating to faerie folklore. I do like quest stories and the author does a nice job of portraying not only Ash's physical quest but also the mental and emotional aspects of his journey. Overall, this was a good conclusion to the series and I think fans will be very happy with it. My reading experience with the Iron Fey series has had its ups and downs but at least it ended well.

Note: I received an e-ARC for review purposes from NetGalley

Waiting on Wednesday (80)

2012-01-18T06:00:00.001-05:00

"Waiting on" Wednesday is a weekly meme to discuss upcoming books we can't wait to get our hands on. Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week, I'm waiting on:

The Serpent's Shadow by Rick Riordan

Publication date: May 1, 2012

Description from Goodreads:

He's b-a-a-ack! Despite their best efforts, Carter and Sade Kane can’t seem to keep Apophis, the chaos snake, down. Now Apophis is threatening to plunge the world into eternal darkness, and the Kanes are faced with the impossible task of having to destroy him once and for all. Unfortunately, the magicians of the House of Life are on the brink of civil war, the gods are divided, and the young initiates of Brooklyn House stand almost alone against the forces of chaos.

To find the answer they need, the Kanes must rely on the murderous ghost of a powerful magician who might be able to lead them to the serpent’s shadow... or might lead them to their deaths in the depths of the underworld...

I love this series! It is so much fun (and I learn something about Egyptian mythology at the same time!) and I can't wait to dive into The Serpent's Shadow.

What are you waiting on this week?

Teaser Tuesdays (70)

2012-01-17T07:04:00.001-05:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly meme hosted by MizB at Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

Grab your current read
Open to a random page

Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page

BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)

Share the title and author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My teasers this week:

"I'm sitting at the dinner table, wearing my future mother-in-law's underwear. It's like some twisted dream that you wake up from and think: Crikey Moses! Thank God that didn't really happen!"

Note to readers: By underwear, Poppy is referring to a camisole (not underpants!) that she thought her fiance had bought her. It turned out to be a birthday gift from Mr. Tavish to his wife.

I've Got Your Number by Sophie Kinsella

p. 91 (ARC)

Description from Goodreads:

I've lost it. The only thing in the world I wasn't supposed to lose. My engagement ring. It's been in Magnus's family for three generations. And now, the very same day his parents are coming, I've lost it. The very same day. Do not hyperventilate Poppy. Stay positive!!

Poppy Wyatt has never felt luckier. She is about to marry the ideal man, Magnus Tavish, but in one afternoon her 'happy ever after' begins to fall apart. Not only has she lost her engagement ring but in the panic that followed, she has now lost her phone. As she paces shakily round the hotel foyer she spots an abandoned phone in a bin. Finders keepers! Now she can leave a number for the hotel to contact her when they find her ring. Perfect!

Well, perfect except the phone's owner, businessman Sam Roxton doesn't agree. He wants his phone back and doesn't appreciate Poppy reading all his messages and wading into his personal life.

What ensues is a hilarious and unpredictable turn of events as Poppy and Sam increasingly upend each other's lives through emails and text messages. As Poppy juggles wedding preparations, mysterious phone calls and hiding her left hand from Magnus and his parents... she soon realises that she is in for the biggest surprise of her life.

I actually finished this book late last night and I thought it was fantastic-probably my favorite of her non-Becky Bloomwood books. It certainly was entertaining and made me laugh out loud.

It's Monday, What Are You Reading (92)

2012-01-15T21:00:00.001-05:00

It's Monday, What Are You Reading is a fun weekly meme hosted by Sheila at Book Journey where we share what we've read and reviewed over the past week and what we plan to read next.

After a bit of a reading slump during the first part of the month, I finally finished my first book for this year. It was not Legend but Cinder by Marissa Meyer and what a way to start off reading in 2012! Now I hope to catch up during the rest of the month. I've got two books to read for my book discussion group in the next couple of weeks, books for review, and some others I've picked up and look forward to reading.

Books read:

Cinder by Marissa Meyer

I was surprised by how much I loved Cinder. It was the perfect book to pull me out of my reading slump. I thought it was a fantastic and creative retelling of Cinderella with a science fiction twist.

The Iron Knight by Julie Kagawa

I finally finished The Iron Knight and I have to admit that the book got better once Ash's quest was really underway. I still think The Iron Queen is the best book in the series.

The Other Guy's Bride by Connie Brockway

This book started out really well with a feisty heroine and great chemistry between her and the hero. Unfortunately I was disappointed with it in the end.

Sita's Ramayana by Samhita Arni

This is a graphic novel retelling of the Ramayana from the point of view of the heroine Sita. I liked the story and the illustrations were well done. They reminded me of classical Indian art.

Books reviewed:

The Things We Cherished by Pam Jenoff

Lovetorn by Kavita Daswani

Currently reading:

I've Got Your Number by Sophie Kinsella

While I prefer the Becky Bloomwood books (except for the newest one), this one has me laughing out loud already. Poppy is quite a character.

Legend by Marie Lu

I wasn't really in the mood to read Legend last week but hopefully I will get back to it this week. So far I think Divergent is the better book.

What I plan to read next:

The Lost Wife by Alyson Richman

This sounds like such a tragic and romantic story. The main characters are a Jewish couple torn apart during WWII and each believes the other has died but fate may give them another chance.

Little Women and Me by Lauren Baratz-Logsted

After reading Little Women last month, I am ready to return to the March household through this interesting YA book where a modern teen finds herself pulled into the book and she hopes to make some changes to the story while she is there...

In My Mailbox (71)

2012-01-15T09:30:00.000-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren to share what books you received for review, purchased, or checked out from the library during the past week.

For review:

I've Got Your Number by Sophie Kinsella

I was thrilled to get this through the Amazon Vine program. I am a big fan of Sophie Kinsella and though the Becky Bloomwood series is my favorite, I think I will enjoy this book too.

Ripper by Amy Carol Reeves

I requested this book from NetGalley and I hope to read it soon. It sounds really interesting and the author is currently working on a guest post for my blog.

Purchased:

A Million Suns by Beth Revis

I am looking forward to reading this since I loved Across the Universe. Hopefully I will get to read it this month.

Cinder by Marissa Meyer

I originally got this from NetGalley but once I started reading it, I knew I had to have my own copy so I bought it. Cinder is my first 5 star read of 2012.

Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare

It has been such a long time since I read Clockwork Angel that I don't remember much of what happened. Hopefully it will all come back to me when I read Clockwork Prince. I may even find that I like this prequel series more than the original!

Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder

I am eager to read this one. I've already read an excerpt and as I am a fan of her other fantasy novels, I know I will like this one too.

This Dark Endeavor by Kenneth Oppel

I bought this on a whim when it was on sale for Kindle. It has been years since I read Frankenstein but I have heard excellent things about this novel of Victor Frankenstein's youth.

Entwined by Heather Dixon

This is yet another retelling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses. I enjoy fairytales retold and this has been well reviewed so I bought it (it didn't hurt that it was only 99 cents!).

The Greatest Knight by Elizabeth Chadwick

I've never read any of Elizabeth Chadwick's historical fiction but I've heard she is fantastic. Since Sourcebooks had this on sale for Kindle, I thought I'd give it a try. Plus I am interested in this time period and haven't read any Medieval fiction in awhile. William Marshal sounds like a real life hero and I can't wait to find out more about him.

His Last Duchess by Gabrielle Kim

This is another book I bought on a whim when it was the Kindle Deal of the Day. It features the Medici family (Lucrezia di Cosimo de Medici).

The Other Guy's Bride by Connie Brockway

This is the first book I've read by Connie Brockway. It received really positive reviews including a starred review from Booklist. When it was the Kindle Deal of the Day, I decided to go ahead and buy it. While it started out well, in the end I was disappointed. I think when it comes to historical romance I should stick to Julia Quinn.

From the library:

Mozart's Last Aria by Matt Rees

This sounds like a fascinating historical mystery about Mozart and featuring his sister Nannerl as the main character trying to investigate his possible murder.

The House at Tyneford by Natasha Solomons

I first came across this book through the Amazon Vine newsletter and thought it sounded interesting. What increased my interest is the blurb saying that fans of Downton Abbey will adore this book. While it is not set in the same time period, the main character is a wealthy Jewish girl who flees Nazi occupied Austria to become a parlor maid in England. I think it sounds like an Eva Ibbotson novel (The Countess Below Stairs) and I have high hopes that I will love it!

Sita's Ramayana by Samhita Arni and Moyna Chitrakar

I've already read this graphic novel adaptation based on the Ramayana by Valmiki. I have read parts of the actual Ramayana and this graphic novel takes an interesting approach to the story by setting it through the view of the heroine rather than the hero, Rama. I also liked the illustrations that remind me of classical Indian art.

The Kite Runner Graphic Novel by Khaled Hosseini, Fabio Celoni, and Mirka Andolfo

I loved The Kite Runner and for me it was an emotional and gripping reading experience. I don't know if the graphic novel will live up to that but I will give it a try anyway.

Have you read any of these books? What did you think of them?

Did you find something on this list that sounds good to you?

2012 Historical Fiction Reading Challenge

2012-01-12T21:53:00.000-05:00

Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres so when I decided not to participate in the Outlander challenge after all, I decided to sign up for this challenge instead. Last year I had no problem reading 20 historical fiction novels so I will be aiming for the "Severe Bookaholism" level of 20 books again.

The Historical Fiction Challenge is hosted by Historical Tapestry.

Review: Lovetorn

2012-01-12T08:00:00.000-05:00

Lovetorn

By Kavita Daswani

Publication date: January 17, 2012

My review:

Shalini's future has been mapped out for her since her third birthday when she became unofficially engaged to Vikram, the son of her father's best friend. Shalini is sixteen now and she has grown to love Vikram. When her dad accepts an exciting new job in the U.S., Shalini is devastated to be parted from Vikram for the next two years. Her dad and younger sister Sangita are thrilled about their new life in California but Shalini and her mom struggle to adjust. Then Shalini begins to make friends and she meets Toby, a boy who could make her forget all about Vikram. Which path will Shalini choose-the careful one laid out for her by her parents and culture or the exciting unknown?

Lovetorn on the surface sounds like a romance with a love triangle however the novel focuses more on Shalini and her family than on romantic relationships. Toby doesn't even appear until more than halfway through the story. When he does show up, he does not make enough of an impression. Readers who pick up this book solely for the romantic aspect might find themselves disappointed but I am glad that the author chose to spend so much time on other things. The portrayal of the culture shock and the adjustments her family must make are well portrayed. I liked seeing how Shalini grew and changed from the dutiful girl she was in India to someone who makes her own decisions.

Readers may not agree with arranged marriages for children but the author does a good job of making sure it is written with sensitivity. I also liked how Vikram was not painted as a bad option. He genuinely cares for Shalini and loves her. The immigrant experience is central to the novel and I think it was depicted believably with both the exciting opportunities as well as the fears and the struggles to fit in. I was also pleased with the ending which felt realistic. The one weakness of the book is Shalini's relationship with Toby. It might serve as an important catalyst in Shalini's growth as a person but it seemed like instant infatuation and I didn't like seeing Shalini become so boy crazy for Toby after months of pining for Vikram. Thankfully the strengths of the novel outweighed the weaknesses for me. I would suggest this to fans of Neesha Meminger, Anjali Banerjee, and Mitali Perkins.

Readalikes: Jazz in Love by Neesha Meminger, Blue Jasmine by Kashmira Sheth, Shine, Coconut Moon by Neesha Meminger, Maya Running by Anjali Banerjee, Koyal Dark, Mango Sweet by Kashmira Sheth

Note: I read an ARC of this book courtesy of Around the World ARC Tours in exchange for an honest review

Waiting on Wednesday (79)

2012-01-11T06:45:00.000-05:00

"Waiting on" Wednesday is a weekly meme to discuss upcoming books we can't wait to get our hands on. Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week, I'm waiting on:

Partials by Dan Wells

Publication date: February 28, 2012

Description from Goodreads:

The human race is all but extinct after a war with Partials—engineered organic beings identical to humans—has decimated the population. Reduced to tens of thousands by RM, a weaponized virus to which only a fraction of humanity is immune, the survivors in North America have huddled together on Long Island while the Partials have mysteriously retreated. The threat of the Partials is still imminent, but worse, no baby has been born immune to RM in more than a decade. Our time is running out.

Kira, a sixteen-year-old medic in training, is on the front lines of this battle, seeing RM ravage the community while mandatory pregnancy laws threaten to launch what’s left of humanity into civil war, and she’s not content to stand by and watch. But as she makes a desperate decision to save the last of her race, she will discover that the survival of humans and Partials alike rests in her attempts to uncover the connections between them—connections that humanity has forgotten, or perhaps never even knew were there.

Dan Wells, acclaimed author of I Am Not a Serial Killer, takes readers on a pulse-pounding journey into a world where the very concept of what it means to be human is in question—one where our humanity is both our greatest liability and our only hope for survival.

The synopsis reminds me a little of Wither with the mandatory pregnancy laws and it reminds me of Cinder because of the virus that is killing people. I think this book has the potential to be an excellent dystopian novel!

What are you waiting on this week?

End of Year Book Survey

2012-01-10T08:20:00.000-05:00

This fun survey is hosted by Jamie at The Perpetual Page-Turner

1. Best Book You Read In 2011?

If I had to pick just one, it would be Divergent by Veronica Roth but since I am not limiting myself...

MG:
Breadcrumbs by Anne Ursu

YA
Dystopian: Divergent by Veronica Roth
Fantasy: The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson
Paranormal: Dearly, Departed by Lia Habel
Contemporary: Shine, Coconut Moon by Neesha Meminger
Historical: Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys

Adult
Fantasy: Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder
Contemporary: The Kitchen Daughter by Jael McHenry
Historical: The Help by Kathryn Stockett
Classic: Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

2. Most Disappointing Book/Book You Wish You Loved More Than You Did?

Forever by Maggie Stiefvater
Kiss Crush Collide by Christina Meredith
Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini
When She Woke by Hillary Jordan

As far as books I finished, I was most disappointed with Forever by Maggie Stiefvater because of the really slow pacing, annoying characters (Grace and Sam because of their inaction for much of the book), and ending that lacked closure. After loving Shiver and becoming a fan of Maggie's writing, I just expected more from the final book in the trilogy. Still I gave it 3 stars because she is a good writer.

I was also very disappointed by Kiss Crush Collide by Christina Meredith and Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini. Both failed to live up to my expectations and received only two stars from me on Goodreads. To its detriment, Kiss Crush Collide was compared to books by authors like Sarah Dessen, John Green, and Simone Elkeles. When you compare a debut novel to works by major YA authors, then people have higher expectations for it. Starcrossed started out well but lost my interest and annoyed me with its lack of originality in the end. Another book that disappointed me was When She Woke by Hillary Jordan. A lot of people loved it and it started out well but finished poorly with the protagonist acting out of character. Still I liked Hillary Jordan's writing style enough to want to try Mudbound, which I've heard is an excellent book club pick.

3. Most surprising (in a good way!) book of 2011?

The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson, Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

With The Girl of Fire and Thorns I think I wasn't quite sure what kind of story to expect. I thought it would be like a lot of other YA paranormal or fantasy I'd already read. What surprised me was the plot and how much I loved it. With Little Women, I was surprised at how thoughtful the book was and how much depth there was to what I'd always believed was a children's classic. Even though I knew the outcome (thanks to watching the film) I was in for a treat with the book.

4. Book you recommended to people most in 2011?

Soulless by Gail Carriger (read in 2010), Divergent by Veronica Roth, The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson

5. Best series you discovered in 2011?

The Lady Julia Grey mystery series by Deanna Raybourn and the Raised By Wolves series by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

6. Favorite new authors you discovered in 2011?

Susanna Kearsley, Deanna Raybourn, Jennifer Lynn Barnes, Veronica Roth, Rae Carson, Jael McHenry, Beth Revis

7. Best book that was out of your comfort zone or was a new genre for you?

Across the Universe by Beth Revis

I don't usually read science fiction and when I first heard of this I wasn't sure I would like it. Thankfully I did and I am eagerly anticipating A Million Suns which releases today. After reading Across the Universe, I find myself open to reading more science fiction-ish books like Cinder (which I'm currently reading now) and Dragonflight which I hope to read later this year.

8. Most thrilling, unputdownable book in 2011?

Divergent by Veronica Roth

9. Book you most anticipated in 2011?

City of Fallen Angels by Cassandra Clare

10. Favorite cover of a book you read in 2011?

Dearly, Departed by Lia Habel

11. Most memorable character in 2011?

Jo March from Little Women, John Thornton from North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell, Brisbane from Silent in the Grave by Deanna Raybourn, Minnie from The Help

12. Most beautifully written book read in 2011?

The Kitchen Daughter by Jael McHenry, Sister of My Heart by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni (reread), Shadows on the Moon by Zoe Marriott

13. Book that had the greatest impact on you in 2011?

The Help by Kathryn Stockett and The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson

14. Book you can't believe you waited UNTIL 2011 to finally read?

The Help by Kathryn Stockett

15. Favorite Passage/Quote From A Book You Read In 2011?

I can't really think of anything at the moment...

16. Book That You Read In 2011 That You Would Be Most Likely To Reread In 2012?

Divergent by Veronica Roth

17. Book That Had A Scene In It That Had You Reeling And Dying To Talk To Somebody About It? (a WTF moment, an epic revelation, a steamy kiss, etc. etc.) Be careful of spoilers!

The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson

Looking Ahead...

1. One Book You Didn't Get To In 2011 But Will Be Your Number 1 Priority in 2012?

Legend by Marie Lu

I actually started reading this but put it aside to read Cinder instead because I just couldn't concentrate on it. Hopefully I will enjoy it more at a later time...

2. Book You Are Most Anticipating For 2012?

Insurgent by Veronica Roth

3. One Thing You Hope To Accomplish Or Do In Your Reading/Blogging In 2012?

I hope to be able to keep up with my reviews. If I don't review a book soon after I read it, I sometimes forget what I thought about it and struggle to write the review. Some of my favorite 2011 books were not reviewed...

Review: The Things We Cherished

2012-01-05T08:00:00.001-05:00

The Things We Cherished

By Pam Jenoff

Publication date: July 12, 2011

My review:

Charlotte Gold is surprised when her ex-boyfriend Brian Warrington stops by to visit her at her law office and requests her help on a high profile case. The case in question involves Roger Dykmans, the brother of Hans Dykmans, a hero who saved the lives of countless Jews in WWII. Roger is being accused of collaboration with the Nazi government, an act that led to his brother's death and that of many Jewish children. Charlotte reluctantly agrees to help with the case and she chases leads to Poland and Germany. Working on the case with her is Brian's older brother Jack. Charlotte and Jack clash over how to handle the investigation but she finds herself falling for him as they travel across Europe together to prove Dykmans' innocence.

The Things We Cherished combines mystery, history, and romance into a page turning story. I enjoyed reading the historical chapters as we learn about the history of the anniversary clock and its importance to the plot. There was also plenty of suspense as characters were involved with the resistance or hiding from the Nazis. The contemporary story was not quite as fascinating though I did like both Charlotte and Jack. Their romance echoes that of another love story in the book which I thought was a nice touch.

While I couldn't wait to find out what happened, in the end I was a little disappointed. Some of the characters seemed to disappear from the story and it felt sort of anticlimactic. The romance between Charlotte and Jack became a little too important or central to the plot than it should have been. It would have been nice if the focus remained on solving the mystery. I also had issues with Roger's actions and that particular romance. Still, I liked The Things We Cherished and found myself pulled into the story. Fans of Sarah's Key might enjoy this because of the mix of historical and contemporary elements though The Things We Cherished is not such a gritty or emotional novel. I was also reminded of People of the Book because of all the different threads of a story tied together by the same object. The Things We Cherished may have some flaws but I liked it anyway and I will be trying other books by Pam Jenoff.

Readalikes: The Virgin Blue by Tracy Chevalier, Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay, People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks

Top Ten Books I'm Excited to Read in 2012

2012-01-03T05:00:00.008-05:00

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme created at The Broke and the Bookish. There is a new subject each week and this week's topic is "Top Ten Books I'm Excited to Read in 2012".

1. Insurgent by Veronica Roth

Considering that Divergent was my favorite book of 2011, this is the book I am most anticipating for 2012.

2. The Crown of Embers by Rae Carson

I can't wait to see what happens next for Elisa after the surprising events in The Girl of Fire and Thorns.

3. A Million Suns by Beth Revis

I know this is going to be a suspenseful story and I am glad I don't have to wait much longer for it...

4. Out of Sight, Out of Time by Ally Carter

This is such a fun series and I am glad there is going to be a new book this spring. I like the Gallagher Girls books more than the Heist Society ones maybe because I like the idea of a school for spies :)

5. Spellbound by Rachel Hawkins

Demonglass ended with such a major cliffhanger that I am eager to read this book to find out what happens.

6. The Golden Lily by Richelle Mead

While Bloodlines didn't live up to the Vampire Academy series, I still enjoyed it and the return of a favorite character for The Golden Lily makes me want to read it more.

7. Ripper by Amy Carol Reeves

I am looking forward to Ripper because I love historical fiction and because I know the author (she was a college classmate). I think the idea of combining Jack the Ripper and the paranormal is an interesting premise.

8. The Mark of Athena by Rick Riordan

I loved The Son of Neptune and Rick Riordan's books are always fun to read. The Mark of Athena brings Annabeth and Camp Half Blood back into the picture along with Percy so I have a feeling this will be a page-turner!

9. Dearly, Beloved by Lia Habel

I was very impressed with Dearly, Departed so I am excited about the sequel. Bram and Nora are fantastic characters and I can't wait to read more!

10. Taken By Storm by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

I have become a fan of Jennifer Lynn Barnes and this series in particular so I know I will enjoy Taken By Storm. While I'm waiting, I should go back and try some of her older books!

Honorable mention:

Timeless by Gail Carriger
Shadowfell by Juliet Marillier
A Breath of Eyre by Eve Marie Mont
Hidden by Sophie Jordan
The Savage Grace by Bree Despain

What do you think of my list?

What books are you excited to read this year?

Page to Screen Reading Challenge Wrap Up

2012-01-02T20:05:00.000-05:00

This is the wrap up post for the 2011 Page to Screen Reading Challenge.. To be eligible for the prize drawing (a book of your choice worth up to $15 from Amazon or Book Depository), you had to read 5 books that were made into movies/T.V. shows.

I only managed to read three books for this challenge so it is a good thing I'm not eligible for the prize :)

I hope you had much better luck! Please enter the link for your wrap up post in the Linky below (you will have until January 30, 2012 to do so and then I will draw a winner on January 31st):

It's Monday, What Are You Reading (91)

2012-01-01T22:27:00.000-05:00

It's Monday, What Are You Reading is a fun weekly meme hosted by Sheila at Book Journey where we share what we've read and reviewed over the past week and what we plan to read next.

Happy 2012! While I am not a big fan of the whole "New Year" holiday, I hope you have a wonderful year :)

Last year, I read 121 books and this year I hope to read even more. With the holidays, I haven't had as much time to read because I've been busy spending time with my family!

Books read:

The Things We Cherished by Pam Jenoff

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

Books reviewed:

Come Sunday by Isla Morley

Currently reading:

Legend by Marie Lu

What I plan to read next:

The Future of Us by Jay Asher and Carolyn Mackler

What have you been reading lately?

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T08:39:00.000-05:00

I wish all of you a very happy 2012!

2012 Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge

2011-12-31T08:35:00.000-05:00

This will be my first year participating in the Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge. I decided to sign up for this challenge instead of the 150+ challenge because I don't think I could read 30 more books in 2012 than I managed in 2011.

There are four different levels to this challenge:

Getting My Heart Rate Up (1-5 more books)
Out of Breath (6-10 more books)
Breaking a Sweat (11-15 more books)
I'm on Fire (16+ books)

I am going to go for the Out of Breath level. As of right now, I've read 120 books in 2011 (but I am desperately trying to finish Little Women by 11:59 PM) so I hope to read at least 127 books in 2012.

If you'd like to participate, the Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge is hosted by The Book Vixen.

2012 Speculative Fiction Challenge

2011-12-31T08:21:00.000-05:00

This will be a new challenge for me to participate in but it looks like fun! Speculative fiction includes science fiction, fantasy, horror, supernatural, dystopian fiction, etc.

There are 5 levels to this reading challenge from Nosey (3 books) to Obsessed (48 books). I am going to be somewhat moderate and aim for In Nirvana (24 books).

Some of the books I hope to read for the challenge:

A Million Suns by Beth Revis
Cinder by Marissa Meyer
Insurgent by Veronica Roth
Timeless by Gail Carriger
Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
Ripper by Amy Carol Reeves
Magic Study by Maria V. Snyder
Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder
Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor
Legend by Marie Lu

The Speculative Fiction Challenge is hosted by Baffled Books.

2012 Off the Shelf Challenge

2011-12-30T20:09:00.000-05:00

I am once again signing up for the Off The Shelf Challenge, a challenge I continually fail to complete! Still, I am determined to try to reduce my TBR pile in 2012. In addition to unread books, I also have a lot of unread e-books on my Kindle.

I am going to aim low and go with the Tempted level of 5 books and maybe this year, I'll finally finish the challenge :)

Some of the books I might read:

Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen

Eona by Alison Goodman

Magic Study by Maria V. Snyder

StarCrossed by Elizabeth Bunce

The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

A Cottage By the Sea by Ciji Ware

The Soldier's Wife by Margaret Leroy

The Lantern by Deborah Lawrenson

The American Heiress by Daisy Goodwin

Whispers in the Sand by Barbara Erskine

Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare

Hourglass by Myra McEntire

Dragonfly in Amber by Diana Gabaldon

Voyager by Diana Gabaldon

Drums of Autumn by Diana Gabaldon

Haunting Violet by Alyxandra Harvey

The Off the Shelf Challenge is hosted by Bookish Ardor.

2012 Twilight Series Challenge

2011-12-30T08:00:00.004-05:00

While I have read the entire Twilight Saga, it has been years since I read the books and I've only read Breaking Dawn once. I was a fan of the first three books when I initially read them. Breaking Dawn and the first Twilight movie kind of reduced my enjoyment of the books as well as the many negative reviews and articles in the years since. It would be good to reread the series and see if I feel the same way now as I did back then.

The Twilight Series Challenge is being hosted by Pages of Forbidden Love.

2012 Victorian Challenge

2011-12-29T19:58:00.000-05:00

The Victorian Challenge is being hosted by Laura's Reviews. I am interested in reading more Victorian literature but what makes this challenge even more fun is that we can also read books published in other countries during that time period (Mark Twain, Louisa May Alcott, etc.), historical fiction set during the Victorian age (like some of my favorite mystery series) and even watch movies.

The goal is to read or watch 2-6 Victorian related items. I am going to aim for 6 since we can watch movies!

I might read:

The Agency: The Traitor in the Tunnel by Y.S. Lee
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens (reread)
A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens
Wives and Daughters by Elizabeth Gaskell
Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery (reread)

I plan to watch:

North and South
Little Women
Cranford
Lark Rise to Candleford

If you'd like to sign up, head over to Laura's Reviews!

2012 Book Blogger Recommendation Challenge

2011-12-29T15:23:00.000-05:00

The Book Blogger Recommendation Challenge is hosted by Reading With Tequila. The aim is to read books from a large list of recommendations (over 200) from fellow book bloggers. I participated in the 2011 BBRC but I did not do very well. I've decided to try it again this year but I will aim for only Level I (5 books from the list) and see how I do.

I have read 16 of the top 25 books on this year's list but there are several books on the list that I want to try to read in 2012.

Books I'd like to read for the challenge:

The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater
Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen
Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor
Legend by Marie Lu
Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen

If you'd like to sign up for the Book Blogger Recommendation Challenge, visit Reading With Tequila.

2012 Support Your Local Library Challenge

2011-12-29T13:53:00.000-05:00

The 2012 Support Your Local Library Challenge is being hosted by The Eclectic Bookshelf. As a librarian, this challenge is important to me and I love to participate in it each year.

There are four different levels to this challenge. Level 1 requires only reading 12 library books , Level 2 requires reading 24 library books, Level 3 requires 36 library books, and Level 4 requires reading 37+ library books. I am going to aim for Level 4.

The nice thing about this challenge is that it encourages participants to use their local library and with many libraries now offering e-books as well as audiobook downloads, you can use your library card to get books from the comfort of your own home (I love downloading library books on my Kindle). If you are interested in participating, visit The Eclectic Bookshelf.

2012 E-Book Challenge

2011-12-28T08:00:00.001-05:00

Since I got a Kindle this past summer and I've been reading e-galleys and library books on it (as well as all those books I keep buying!) I thought I'd sign up for this challenge.

There are seven different reading levels for this challenge (5 e-books through 150 e-books) and I've decided to aim for the "CD" level which is just 10 e-books.

If you'd like to find out more or sign up, visit Workaday Reads.

2012 South Asian Challenge

2011-12-27T13:00:00.000-05:00

The South Asian Challenge is one I enjoy participating in every year. The goal is to read books written by authors from South Asian countries (India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives) or books by non-South Asian authors that are about South Asian countries or have South Asian main characters.

Find out more about the South Asian Challenge at S. Krishna's Books.

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-23T14:20:00.000-05:00

I've been seeing these creative book trees all over the place lately so I thought I'd share one of my favorites with you. You can find more book trees at GalleyCat. I hope to make one for my library next year.

A Jewish friend sent me a link to this fun Hanukkah video:

If you celebrate Christmas or Hanukkah, I wish you a very happy holiday season!

I will be back to blogging next week. In the meantime I plan to enjoy spending time with my family and catching up on reading :)

2012 Eclectic Reader Challenge

2011-12-22T15:42:00.000-05:00

The Eclectic Reader Challenge is hosted by Book'd Out. I like the idea of this challenge because the aim is to read books from different genres and I know I have a tendency to avoid certain genres like the plague (horror, science fiction). Since I should be familiar with a variety of genres for my job, I think this is the perfect challenge for me!

The goal of the challenge is to read one book from each genre:

1. Literary Fiction

2. Crime/Mystery Fiction

3. Romantic Fiction

4. Historical Fiction

5. Young Adult

6. Fantasy

7. Science Fiction

8. Nonfiction

9. Horror

10. Thriller/Suspense

11. Classic

12. Your favorite genre

To find out all the details and sign up, visit Book'd Out.

2012 Debut Author Challenge

2011-12-22T14:39:00.000-05:00

The Story Siren's Debut Author Challenge is one of my favorite reading challenges. Each year I discover great new YA authors like Veronica Roth, Rae Carson, and Lia Habel.

The basic rules of the challenge:

Read at least 12 debut YA/MG novels between January 1, 2012-January 31, 2013
ARCs read before January 1, 2012 do not count
You must have a blog, be a member of Goodreads, or review your books on YouTube
Your blog/review medium must be in English
Deadline to join: May 31, 2012

Some of the books I hope to read for the challenge:

Ripper by Amy Carol Reeves
A Breath of Eyre by Eve Marie Mont
Cinder by Marissa Meyer
The Gathering Storm by Robin Bridges
Gilt by Katherine Longshore
Scarlet by A.C. Gaughen

For full rules and to sign up, visit The Story Siren!

Review: Come Sunday

2011-12-21T08:00:00.002-05:00

Come Sunday

By Isla Morley

Publication date: May 26, 2009

My review:

Abbe Deighton grew up in a troubled home in South Africa but now she has made a life for herself in Hawaii with her husband Greg and their three year old daughter Cleo. Lately, things have been difficult in her marriage especially with the stress caused by problems with the church her husband pastors. Abbe decides that she and Greg need a night out so they leave Cleo with a sitter and go to see a movie. This decision proves to have major consequences as it leads to a terrible tragedy that will shake the fragile foundations of their marriage. Now as Abbe grieves the loss of her child, she must also confront the ghosts of her past.

Come Sunday is a moving story about loss and relationships. Abbe has suffered a tremendous loss and as the novel goes on, the reader also finds out about her tough childhood. Isla Morley does a good job of portraying Abbe's pain and she comes across as a very realistic character. Abbe can be unkind and selfish but that is understandable though it makes it hard to like her at times. This is the kind of book that makes readers feel strongly whether it is sorrow or anger.

My evening book discussion group chose this as our November book. The consensus was that the group did not like Abbe because of her behavior towards her husband and others, particularly her close friends. There was also agreement that one of the plot points toward the end of the book was really unnecessary and didn't fit in with the rest of the book. Other members also wished that there was more about South Africa in the book in terms of a sense of place.

I still liked Come Sunday even with its flaws. It definitely made me think about how our past can have such a hold on us if we let it and the importance of trying to forgive instead of being bitter. The characters were true to life and I think the themes of the story were well written. I look forward to reading more from Isla Morley. Come Sunday would make a good book for discussion.

It's Monday, What Are You Reading (90)

2011-12-18T20:57:00.001-05:00

It's Monday, What Are You Reading is a fun weekly meme hosted by Sheila at Book Journey where we share what we've read and reviewed over the past week and what we plan to read next.

This has been a really rough week for me because I haven't been feeling well but I am hopeful that this coming week will be much better. I am planning to go home to visit family on Wednesday afternoon and to stay through the New Year.

Happy Holidays!

Books read:

All Is Bright by Sarah Pekkanen

I liked this short story though it ended too abruptly. Thankfully the companion short story, Love, Accidentally, wraps up the loose ends.

Love, Accidentally by Sarah Pekkanen

The Viscount Who Loved Me by Julia Quinn

Books reviewed:

Every Other Day by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Currently reading:

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

I hope to finish this by the end of the year so I can complete the Victorian Reading Challenge. Right now, I am at the part where Jo forgives Amy for burning her manuscript (after Amy nearly falls through the ice when they go ice skating). I was glad to find so many things from the movie were taken from the book.

The Flight of Gemma Hardy by Margot Livesey

I am really enjoying this retelling of Jane Eyre set in 1960s Scotland. Right now Gemma has just arrived at her new job as an au pair but she hasn't met the "Mr. Rochester" character yet.

What I might read next:

Legend by Marie Lu

My goal is to finish this book by the end of the year so I can see if it makes it onto my Best of 2011 list. I also want to read it because it sounds really good :)

A Walk Across the Sun by Corban Addison

This novel is about two young Indian girls who survive the 2004 tsunami only to find themselves sold into slavery.

The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

I got this for Christmas last year but still haven't read it. Bad me! I better start it before my sister gives me a hard time about it :)

In My Mailbox (70)

2011-12-18T08:56:00.000-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren to share what books you received for review, purchased, or checked out from the library during the past week.

For review:

Every Other Day by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

I am a fan of Jennifer Lynn Barnes's Raised By Wolves series so when I was offered the chance to review this through the Amazon Vine program, you can bet I was thrilled! I've already finished the book (it was pretty good though I like the wolf series better) and my review is here.

The Flight of Gemma Hardy by Margot Livesey

I also got this through the Amazon Vine program. It is a retelling of Jane Eyre set in Scotland during the 1950s and 60s. So far it is pretty good.

A Walk Across the Sun by Corban Addison

I first saw this in a Shelf Awareness newsletter and I am glad I was able to get an ARC for review because it sounds like such a moving story.

Purchased:

All is Bright by Sarah Pekkanen

While I don't usually read short stories, I am a fan of Sarah Pekkanen and I was looking for something holiday-ish to read.

Love, Accidentally by Sarah Pekkanen

This is a companion short story to All is Bright and if you read the first short story, you definitely should read this to get closure on the story.

Haunting Violet by Alyxandra Harvey

I like the Drake Chronicles so hopefully I will enjoy this one too. The synopsis reminds me of both The Vespertine and Clarity.

Mudbound by Hillary Jordan

I decided to buy this when it was a Kindle Daily Deal. I've heard that this book is good for book discussions so I thought I'd try it.

The Heroine's Bookshelf by Erin Blakemore

I saw an excellent review of this by Lydia of The Lost Entwife so I decided that I needed to own it. I love Jane Austen and liked the Little House books as a child. The author also writes about Anne of Green Gables and other books I've enjoyed. I look forward to reading this next month.

From the library:

Legend by Marie Lu

Since I have heard so many good things about this book I have rather high expectations. It is definitely one I will be reading soon because I want to finish it by the end of the year. We'll see if it makes it onto my Best of 2011 list...

The Future of Us by Jay Asher and Carolyn Mackler

This is another one I've been wanting to read for awhile, mostly because it will be a flashback to my own teen years (minus the FaceBook part of course).

Little Women and Me by Lauren Baratz-Logsted

I am currently reading Little Women and I like the idea of this book where the modern protagonist finds herself in the book and tries to change what happens in the story.

The Scottish Prisoner by Diana Gabaldon

I haven't read any of the Lord John books but I did like Outlander. This book features Jamie and I believe it takes place between Dragonfly in Amber and Voyager. While I haven't read the entire series yet, I have read those so I should be okay with reading this book.

Review: Every Other Day

2011-12-15T08:00:00.005-05:00

Every Other Day

By Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Publication date: December 27, 2011

My review:

Kali D'Angelo cycles between being a super strong hunter of preternatural creatures and being a teenage girl every 24 hours. When she is in hunt mode she has an automatic urge to kill preternatural creatures like zombies, hellhounds, and basilisks. One creature that is deadly to humans in particular is the chupacabra which bites and feeds on its victims' blood and memories. After a person is bitten, they only have hours before it is too late and the orobouros symbol appears on their bodies. When Kali sees that symbol on cheerleader Bethany Davis, she is unfortunately in "human mode" but she decides to do something risky anyway to save Bethany's life. Now Kali has to get through the hours till she transforms and in the meantime the stakes are raised when she realizes that Bethany was infected on purpose.

Kali is in some ways similar to Bryn from Jennifer's other series, Raised by Wolves, but Kali actually has supernatural strength though she goes back to being a regular teen in 24 hours. Like Bryn, Kali also has an unusual home life-her mom left when she was little and her dad is very much an absent-minded professor type. She pretty much has to raise herself. This means that Kali comes across as more of an adult than a teen. It is funny then to see her interact and make friends with more typical teens like Skylar, a social outcast, and Bethany, a popular cheerleader. Kali's social awkwardness and temporary vulnerability make her easier to relate to. Zev and Skylar are interesting characters and even Bethany grew on me.

The writing is humorous and action packed (the story takes place over just a few days) but we still get to see some character growth in Kali as she learns more about herself, her family, and her newfound friends. Something else I liked was how even though Kali's dad isn't the greatest, Kali sees that he actually does care about her and their relationship does improve by the end of the book. Another positive is that the romance element is not the main point and there isn't a love triangle-a huge plus in this genre of YA fiction. I do wish there was better world building and that some things were better explained but hopefully there will be a sequel that will answer those questions.

Overall while I think Raised by Wolves is the better book, Every Other Day exceeded my expectations. Jennifer Lynn Barnes has become one of my favorite authors of YA paranormal fiction because of her strong but flawed protagonists and because she knows how to tell a story. I would suggest this to fans of Paranormalcy by Kiersten White and to those who like strong female protagonists like Billi Sangreal from Devil's Kiss or Rose Hathaway from Vampire Academy.

Readalikes: Paranormalcy by Kiersten White, Raised by Wolves by Jennifer Lynn Barnes, Devil's Kiss by Sarwat Chadda, Strange Angels by Lili St. Crow

Note: I received an ARC of this book through the Amazon Vine program in exchange for my honest review

Waiting on Wednesday (78)

2011-12-14T05:36:00.000-05:00

"Waiting on" Wednesday is a weekly meme to discuss upcoming books we can't wait to get our hands on. Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week, I'm waiting on:

I've Got Your Number by Sophie Kinsella

Publication date: February 14, 2012

Description:

I am a big fan of Sophie Kinsella's books and while this isn't a Becky Bloomwood novel, I'm still excited about it and I'm sure it will be a fun read.

Top Ten Books I Want to Give As Gifts

2011-12-13T07:47:00.000-05:00

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme created at The Broke and the Bookish. There is a new subject each week and this week's topic is "Top Ten Books I Want to Give as Gifts".

For my sister:

Crafting With Cat Hair: Cute Handicrafts to Make With Your Cat by Kaori Tsutaya and Amy Hirschman

I am being perfectly serious :) She would get a kick out of this book. She often says that Kitty sheds enough hair that you could make another cat out of it.

Unlikely Friendships: 47 Remarkable Stories From the Animal Kingdom by Jennifer S. Holland

My sister has loved animals her whole life and at one time she wanted to be a veterinarian. I think she'd find this book to be really cute. I had a chance to glance through it when we got it at my library and there are some truly adorable animals in there. I think this would make a great heartwarming gift for a lot of people this Christmas...

The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson

This is one of my favorite new books as I've mentioned repeatedly on this blog. My sister and I don't always have the same taste in books but this is one she might really like. Who knows? She ended up loving The Hunger Games when I bought that for her but didn't care for Beautiful Creatures which I also loved.

Shadows on the Moon by Zoe Marriott

I think my sister would like this because she liked Memoirs of a Geisha. I don't know how she feels about fairy tales retold though...

Legend by Marie Lu

This is a book I haven't read yet but based on an excerpt and the many 5 star reviews, I'd say this was a sure bet for my sister. Too bad I already got her Christmas gift!

For my mom:

Girl in Translation by Jean Kwok

My mom doesn't have much time for reading because she is so busy with work and home life. She is a kindergarten teacher so most of the books she reads are things for school like Charlotte's Web, Stuart Little, or Mrs. Piggle Wiggle. I think Girl in Translation is a book my mom would absolutely love and be able to relate to if only she had the time to read for herself!

The Help by Kathryn Stockett

I don't know if my mom would like this book but I bet she will love the movie (I'm taking it home with me when I visit for Christmas). The story is one that has wide appeal and after seeing the movie, she might be interested in reading the book.

The Girl in the Garden by Kamala Nair

It is funny that I was drawn to this book by the author's name since my mom's name is also Kamala. The Girl in the Garden is set in India and inspired by The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. My mom would love this story and for added incentive, I suggested it to her best friend and she loved it. I am actually planning to give my copy of this book to my mom but not for Christmas. I will save it up for her birthday this summer when she may have some time to read! Shh. Don't tell her...

For my dad:

The Third Wave by Alison Thompson

My dad enjoys reading but he reads only a handful of books a year. He has a really good work ethic so I think he feels like time spent reading for pleasure is time he should be using to do more practical things like yard work or cleaning the house. When he does read, it is usually books for church (he teaches Sunday school) or something educational. I think he'd like The Third Wave because it is about relief efforts in Sri Lanka (his homeland) after the 2004 tsunami.

Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand

I haven't read this book but I think my dad would find the story fascinating. I know he'd be interested if they made it into a movie.

It's Monday, What Are You Reading (89)

2011-12-11T21:23:00.000-05:00

It's Monday, What Are You Reading is a fun weekly meme hosted by Sheila at Book Journey where we share what we've read and reviewed over the past week and what we plan to read next.

I only finished one book this week because I've been busy trying to get ready for Christmas. I have sent out some Christmas cards but still have several more to write for some relatives, friends, and coworkers. I finally put up the tree on Friday but it still doesn't have lights or ornaments. I will be leaving my tree up into January though to make up for it :)

This week, I am hopeful that I will have a little more time to read. I am currently working on my review of Every Other Day and I hope to start writing some more reviews to post while I'm on vacation for the holidays.

Books read:

Every Other Day by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

I thought this was an excellent YA paranormal that is almost as good as her other series. It reminded me of a darker version of Paranormalcy.

Books reviewed:

The Kitchen Daughter by Jael McHenry

Currently reading:

All Is Bright by Sarah Pekkanen

I just started this short story but I like it so far. I enjoyed Sarah Pekkanen's full length novels so I am sure I will enjoy All Is Bright too. She has a new short story related to this one that will be published this week.

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

I realized recently that I haven't read this book in its entirety so I downloaded the e-book. I know I read about Jo and her sisters when they were young but when I watched the movie I was surprised about who Jo ended up with which led me to figure out that I haven't read the whole book. I must have just read an extract when I was a girl.

What I plan to read next:

Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor

I am looking forward to reading this book especially since it has received such good reviews and is considered one of the best books of 2011.

Legend by Marie Lu

I definitely want to read this before the year ends and it is probably the debut I've been anticipating the most this winter. I hope it lives up to my high expectations!

Congratulations 2012 Morris Award Finalists!

2011-12-11T10:42:00.001-05:00

The William C. Morris YA Debut Award finalists for 2012 were announced earlier this week.

They are:

The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson

Once a century, one person is chosen for greatness.

Elisa is the chosen one.

But she is also the younger of two princesses, the one who has never done anything remarkable. She can’t see how she ever will.

Now, on her sixteenth birthday, she has become the secret wife of a handsome and worldly king—a king whose country is in turmoil. A king who needs the chosen one, not a failure of a princess.

And he’s not the only one who seeks her. Savage enemies seething with dark magic are hunting her. A daring, determined revolutionary thinks she could be his people’s savior. And he looks at her in a way that no man has ever looked at her before. Soon it is not just her life, but her very heart that is at stake.

Elisa could be everything to those who need her most. If the prophecy is fulfilled. If she finds the power deep within herself. If she doesn’t die young.

I was so happy when I found out that The Girl of Fire and Thorns was a finalist as it is one of my favorite debut books this year. I would be ecstatic if it won!

Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys

Lina is just like any other fifteen-year-old Lithuanian girl in 1941. She paints, she draws, she gets crushes on boys. Until one night when Soviet officers barge into her home, tearing her family from the comfortable life they've known. Separated from her father, forced onto a crowded and dirty train car, Lina, her mother, and her young brother slowly make their way north, crossing the Arctic Circle, to a work camp in the coldest reaches of Siberia. Here they are forced, under Stalin's orders, to dig for beets and fight for their lives under the cruelest of conditions.

Lina finds solace in her art, meticulously - and at great risk - documenting events by drawing, hoping these messages will make their way to her father's prison camp to let him know they are still alive. It is a long and harrowing journey, spanning years and covering 6,500 miles, but it is through incredible strength, love, and hope that Lina ultimately survives.Between Shades of Gray is a novel that will steal your breath and capture your heart.

Between Shades of Gray is the only other book on the list that I've read and I thought it was fantastic too.

Paper Covers Rock by Jenny Hubbard

At the beginning of his junior year at a boys' boarding school, 16-year-old Alex is devastated when he fails to save a drowning friend. When questioned, Alex and his friend Glenn, who was also at the river, begin weaving their web of lies. Plagued by guilt, Alex takes refuge in the library, telling his tale in a journal he hides behind Moby-Dick. Caught in the web with Alex and Glenn is their English teacher, Miss Dovecott, fresh out of Princeton, who suspects there's more to what happened at the river when she perceives guilt in Alex's writing for class. She also sees poetic talent in Alex, which she encourages. As Alex responds to her attention, he discovers his true voice, one that goes against the boarding school bravado that Glenn embraces. When Glenn becomes convinced that Miss Dovecott is out to get them, Alex must choose between them.

Under the Mesquite by Guadalupe Garcia McCall

Lupita, a budding actor and poet in a close-knit Mexican American immigrant family, comes of age as she struggles with adult responsibilities during her mother's battle with cancer in this young adult novel in verse.

When Lupita learns Mami has cancer, she is terrified by the possibility of losing her mother, the anchor of her close-knit family. Suddenly, being a high school student, starring in a play, and dealing with friends who don't always understand, become less important than doing whatever she can to save Mami's life.

While her father cares for Mami at an out-of-town clinic, Lupita takes charge of her seven younger siblings. As Lupita struggles to keep the family afloat, she takes refuge in the shade of a mesquite tree, where she escapes the chaos at home to write. Forced to face her limitations in the midst of overwhelming changes and losses, Lupita rediscovers her voice and finds healing in the power of words.

Told with honest emotion in evocative free verse, Lupita's journey toward hope is captured in moments that are alternately warm and poignant. Under the Mesquite is an empowering story about testing family bonds and the strength of a young woman navigating pain and hardship with surprising resilience.

Where Things Come Back by John Corey Whaley

Just when seventeen-year-old Cullen Witter thinks he understands everything about his small and painfully dull Arkansas town, it all disappears. . . .

In the summer before Cullen's senior year, a nominally-depressed birdwatcher named John Barling thinks he spots a species of woodpecker thought to be extinct since the 1940s in Lily, Arkansas. His rediscovery of the so-called Lazarus Woodpecker sparks a flurry of press and woodpecker-mania. Soon all the kids are getting woodpecker haircuts and everyone's eating "Lazarus burgers." But as absurd as the town's carnival atmosphere has become, nothing is more startling than the realization that Cullen’s sensitive, gifted fifteen-year-old brother Gabriel has suddenly and inexplicably disappeared.

While Cullen navigates his way through a summer of finding and losing love, holding his fragile family together, and muddling his way into adulthood, a young missionary in Africa, who has lost his faith, is searching for any semblance of meaning wherever he can find it. As distant as the two stories seem at the start, they are thoughtfully woven ever closer together and through masterful plotting, brought face to face in a surprising and harrowing climax.

Complex but truly extraordinary, tinged with melancholy and regret, comedy and absurdity, this novel finds wonder in the ordinary and emerges as ultimately hopeful. It's about a lot more than what Cullen calls, “that damn bird.” It’s about the dream of second chances.

Have you read any of these books?

What did you think of them?

Congratulations once again to all the Finalists, especially Ohio author Rae Carson!

Reading Extensively

Top Ten Books For Book Clubs

It's Monday, What Are You Reading (94)

In My Mailbox (73)

Review: The Emerald Atlas

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It's Monday, What Are You Reading (93)

In My Mailbox (72)

Review: The Iron Knight

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It's Monday, What Are You Reading (92)

In My Mailbox (71)

2012 Historical Fiction Reading Challenge

Review: Lovetorn

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Review: The Things We Cherished

Top Ten Books I'm Excited to Read in 2012

Page to Screen Reading Challenge Wrap Up

It's Monday, What Are You Reading (91)

Happy New Year!

2012 Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge

2012 Speculative Fiction Challenge

2012 Off the Shelf Challenge

2012 Twilight Series Challenge

2012 Victorian Challenge

2012 Book Blogger Recommendation Challenge

2012 Support Your Local Library Challenge

2012 E-Book Challenge

Top Ten Favorite Books I Read in 2011

2012 South Asian Challenge

Happy Holidays!

2012 Eclectic Reader Challenge

2012 Debut Author Challenge

Review: Come Sunday

It's Monday, What Are You Reading (90)

In My Mailbox (70)

Review: Every Other Day

Waiting on Wednesday (78)

Top Ten Books I Want to Give As Gifts

It's Monday, What Are You Reading (89)

Congratulations 2012 Morris Award Finalists!