Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Thursday, May 26, 2011
REVIEW: Divergent by Veronica Roth
Description
In Beatrice Prior's dystopian Chicago, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue—Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. For Beatrice, the decision is between staying with her family and being who she really is—she can't have both. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself.
During the highly competitive initiation that follows, Beatrice renames herself Tris and struggles to determine who her friends really are—and where, exactly, a romance with a sometimes fascinating, sometimes infuriating boy fits into the life she's chosen. But Tris also has a secret, one she's kept hidden from everyone because she's been warned it can mean death. And as she discovers a growing conflict that threatens to unravel her seemingly perfect society, she also learns that her secret might help her save those she loves . . . or it might destroy her.
Debut author Veronica Roth bursts onto the literary scene with the first book in the Divergent series—dystopian thrillers filled with electrifying decisions, heartbreaking betrayals, stunning consequences, and unexpected romance.
During the highly competitive initiation that follows, Beatrice renames herself Tris and struggles to determine who her friends really are—and where, exactly, a romance with a sometimes fascinating, sometimes infuriating boy fits into the life she's chosen. But Tris also has a secret, one she's kept hidden from everyone because she's been warned it can mean death. And as she discovers a growing conflict that threatens to unravel her seemingly perfect society, she also learns that her secret might help her save those she loves . . . or it might destroy her.
Debut author Veronica Roth bursts onto the literary scene with the first book in the Divergent series—dystopian thrillers filled with electrifying decisions, heartbreaking betrayals, stunning consequences, and unexpected romance.
About the Author
Veronica Roth graduated from Northwestern University with a degree in creative writing. While she was a student, she often chose to work on the story that would become Divergent instead of doing her homework. It was indeed a transforming choice. Now a full-time writer, Ms. Roth lives near Chicago. Divergent is her first novel.Details
- Reading level: Young Adult
- Hardcover: 496 pages
- Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books (May 3, 2011)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 0062024027
- ISBN-13: 978-0062024022
ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT
The story follows Beatrice Prior through a post apocalyptic Chicago where she has just turned sixteen and must decide whether to stay in her own faction (class) of Abegnation or move to a new one, severing all ties to her family in the process. Of her five choices of Abegnation, Erudite, Amity, Candor or Dauntless, she chooses Dauntless, the warrior class. If she fails the initiation, she will be factionless and forces to live outside society as a castoff. There is heart pounding action while Beatrice (now known as Tris), learns fighting, parcour and the use of weapons, all things that go against her peaceful family faction of Abegnation. Of course, she doesn't neatly fit into definition of Dauntless and the tests each teen is forced to take to an assessment test to determine where they belong. Tris tests Divergent which means she doesn't neatly fall into the government's rankings. The people accept things as they are until one in power becomes greedy and the factions are headed to war between themselves.
This is probably one of the best books I have read this year and I cannot wait until the next in this trilogy is released. Even though it is almost 500 pages, it was a very quick read for me. I got the same feeling while I was reading the Hunger Games series and it is in very much of the same vein. I have heard that it also has been optioned for a movie which I think will be highly anticipated. Well, at least for me. I am leaving out the major spoilers, but this is just a wonderful read for teens over 14 since there is violence, a bit of kissing and some alcohol use.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Waiting on Wednesday: Every You, Every Me by David Levithan & Jonathan Farmer
This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:
Description
In this high school-set psychological tale, a tormented teen named Evan starts to discover a series of unnerving photographs—some of which feature him. Someone is stalking him . . . messing with him . . . threatening him. Worse, ever since his best friend Ariel has been gone, he's been unable to sleep, spending night after night torturing himself for his role in her absence. And as crazy as it sounds, Evan's starting to believe it's Ariel that's behind all of this, punishing him. But the more Evan starts to unravel the mystery, the more his paranoia and insomnia amplify, and the more he starts to unravel himself. Creatively told with black-and-white photos interspersed between the text so the reader can see the photos that are so unnerving to Evan, Every You, Every Me is a one-of-a-kind departure from a one-of-a-kind author.
About the Author
David Levithan has taken at least one photograph every day for the past ten years. However, he is much better known for his novels, which include Boy Meets Boy, The Realm of Possibility, Are We There Yet?, Wide Awake, Love is the Higher Law, and (with John Green) Will Grayson, Will Grayson. He’s written three books with Rachel Cohn as well: Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist, Naomi and Ely’s No Kiss List, and Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares. In truth, though, he probably spends more time wandering around with his camera than he does sitting at his computer writing. He particularly loves taking pictures of passersby, and New York City is perfect for that. He met Jonathan Farmer because of Jonathan’s likeness to a young Walt Whitman.Jonathan Farmer, to this very day, has not, cannot, and may never decide just what it is he wants to be when he grows up. Once, he thought he had found the perfect descriptor—"Naturalist"—but David said that just made him sound like a botanist . . . or a nudist. Since then, Jonathan has narrowed it down to: photographer, performer, writer, director, and teacher. He spent his early years exploring the mysterious forests of New Hampshire. But now, since moving to Brooklyn, NY, Jonathan has been growing to love the hustle and bustle of the city. From time to time, though, you might catch him longing for the sweet smell of the pines. Visit Jonathan at jwfarmer.com.
Details
- Reading level: Young Adult
- Hardcover: 256 pages
- Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers (September 13, 2011)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 0375860983
- ISBN-13: 978-0375860980
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
GIVEAWAY! Splash into Summer (with Zombies!)
STOP # 57
The Splash Into Summer Giveaway Hop is hosted by I Am A Reader, Not A Writer & Page Turners. It will take place from May 25th to 31st. There are hundreds of blogs participating and each has their own rules, so be sure to stop by each one and enter!
56. BookHounds (Int)
57. FOREVER YOUNG (Adult) (Int)
58. Urban Fantasy Investigations (Int)
59. Sweeping Me (Int)
60. Bat Country (Int)
I am celebrating ZOMBIE MONTH, so here is a Zombie book for one lucky winner:
The Dead-Tossed Waves by Carrie Ryan
WANT TO WIN A COPY OF THIS BOOK?
Contest is open to anyone over 13 years old with a reliable mailing address (PO Boxes OK!)
Contest ends on 5.31.11 Winner will be chosen by Random.org on 6.1.11
Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email or a new winner will be chosen.
This giveaway is sponsored by ME
If mailing costs to your country is prohibitive, I may opt to substitute a Book Depository gift card ($10)
Complete the below form
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Monday, May 23, 2011
REVIEW: Sweetly by Jackson Pearce
Description
As a child, Gretchen's twin sister was taken by a witch in the woods. Ever since, Gretchen and her brother, Ansel, have felt the long branches of the witch's forest threatening to make them disappear, too.
Years later, when their stepmother casts Gretchen and Ansel out, they find themselves in sleepy Live Oak, South Carolina. They're invited to stay with Sophia Kelly, a beautiful candy maker who molds sugary magic: coveted treats that create confidence, bravery, and passion.
Life seems idyllic and Gretchen and Ansel gradually forget their haunted past-- until Gretchen meets handsome local outcast Samuel. He tells her the witch isn't gone-- it's lurking in the forest, preying on girls every year after Live Oak's infamous chocolate festival, and looking to make Gretchen it's next victim. Gretchen is determined to stop running and start fighting back. Yet the further she investigates the mystery of what the witch is and how it chooses its victims, the more she wonders who the real monster is.
Gretchen is certain of only one thing: a monster is coming, and it will never go away hungry.
Years later, when their stepmother casts Gretchen and Ansel out, they find themselves in sleepy Live Oak, South Carolina. They're invited to stay with Sophia Kelly, a beautiful candy maker who molds sugary magic: coveted treats that create confidence, bravery, and passion.
Life seems idyllic and Gretchen and Ansel gradually forget their haunted past-- until Gretchen meets handsome local outcast Samuel. He tells her the witch isn't gone-- it's lurking in the forest, preying on girls every year after Live Oak's infamous chocolate festival, and looking to make Gretchen it's next victim. Gretchen is determined to stop running and start fighting back. Yet the further she investigates the mystery of what the witch is and how it chooses its victims, the more she wonders who the real monster is.
Gretchen is certain of only one thing: a monster is coming, and it will never go away hungry.
About the Author
Jackson Pearce is the author of Sisters Red and As You Wish. She lives in Atlanta, Georgia.Details
- Reading level: Young Adult
- Hardcover: 320 pages
- Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers (August 23, 2011)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 0316068659
- ISBN-13: 978-0316068659
LOVED IT
***slight spoilers***
In this new retelling of Hansel and Gretel (my first two dachshunds!), Jackson Pearce keeps the witch, adds some werewolves and a bit of creepiness that will really make you want to devour this. Ansel and his sister Gretchen have been thrown out by their stepmother when Gretchen turns 18 and they leave to drive as far as their car will take them. The car breaks down in Live Oak, SC where they find a job with the local candy maker, Sophia. It is rumored that she infuses her chocolate with magic and has a chocolate festival each year that leads the disappearance of teen girls. Gretchen still fearing the "witch" that stole her twin years ago is sensing the same activity here.
Sam, a local, is very vocal about the disappearing girls and blames Sophia. Ansel and Gretchen get drawn into Sophia's world and can't imagine that she has anything to do with it until a seashell turns up on her doorstep and Gretchen finds it. It gets increasingly spooky as Gretchen finds more clues and hooks up with Sam who gives her even more answers about what is happening in the small town which he blames rightly on the Fenris. The Fenris (werewolves) first appear in Sisters Red, which will add to this book, but it is not required to fully enjoy this one. I love these fairy tale mash ups and Jackson Pearce takes them to a whole new level with keeping the theme of werewolves believable and incredibly threatening through out while remaining true to the original story of Hansel and Gretel.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
REVIEW: Shadowspell by Jenna Black
Description
On top of spending most of her time in a bunkerlike safe house and having her dates hijacked by a formidable Fae bodyguard, Faeriewalker Dana Hathaway is in for some more bad news: the Erlking and his pack of murderous minions known as the Wild Hunt have descended upon Avalon. With his homicidal appetite and immortal powers, the Erlking has long been the nightmare of the Fae realm. A fragile treaty with the Faerie Queen, sealed with a mysterious spell, is the one thing that keeps him from hunting unchecked in Avalon, the only place on Earth where humans and Fae live together. Which means Dana’s in trouble, since it’s common knowledge that the Faerie Queen wants her – and her rare Faeriewalker powers – dead. The smoldering, sexy Erlking’s got his sights set on Dana, but does he only seek to kill her, or does he have something much darker in mind?
About the Author
Jenna Black graduated from Duke University with degrees in anthropology and French. A full time writer of paranormal romance and urban fantasy, she lives in Pittsboro, North Carolina. Visit her online at www.jennablack.com.
MY THOUGHTS
Details
- Reading level: Young Adult
- Paperback: 304 pages
- Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin; Original edition (January 4, 2011)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 9780312575946
- ISBN-13: 978-0312575946
LOVED IT
Shadowspell continues the story started in Glimmerglass and follows Dana as she gets deeper involved with the world of the fae. Her aunt Grace and both Queens want her dead while Ethan seems to be playing games with her. She now lives in a bunker like safe house deep inside the mountain where Finn is defending her full time and his son, Keane, is now giving her more lessons in self defense. Dana can only go out supervised by Finn and another body guard. The Erlking has now discovered Dana and wants her for his own, so he captures Ethan and makes him part of his Wild Hunt gang. I can't watch Lady Gaga's video Judas without thinking of this book.
Of course, Dana is manipulated into a bad situation with the Erlking in order to return Ethan from his clutches, but in her headstrong way, Dana thinks she has all the angles of the deal figured out. She doesn't and finds out she might have possibly bargained away her life. I don't think the Erlking is truly evil since he is protected Dana and gives her excellent advice to help her protect herself and make better decisions. So now there is a love quadrangle (?) and there are quite a few developments that keep the plot moving (sorry, I am not going to spoil that for anyone). Now, I just can't wait for the next one in the series, Sirensong, where I hope that Dana develops her newly found powers.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
GIVEAWAY & REVIEW: Blogs of Wrath by Todd Noker and Zack Shutt
Description
Carl DeReese only wants to survive junior high school in the Salt Lake City suburbs, but in an era when teachers are afraid of the students, some of his behavior is misdiagnosed as threatening. His longing to fit into a new school is complicated by a family tragedy, followed by a breakdown in the classroom that leads to criminal charges. The trials and adversities of growing up are catalogued on his online blog.
His emotions are honest, his online confessions are genuine and heartbreaking, and his fear of what the next day brings will make even older readers wonder how they survived junior high school.
About the Author
Zack D. Shutt started blogging at age twelve, and had his first self-published work banned from junior high when he was only fourteen. His personal blog is the inspiration behind this novel. He is a professional web designer and programmer.Todd "Nuke 'Em" Noker is the author of Rated F, and Path of Totality. He is a popular radio personality.Details
- Paperback: 236 pages
- Publisher: Doubleday (January 20, 2010)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 1440172986
- ISBN-13: 978-1440172984
MY THOUGHTS
ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT
***spoiler alert*** Only read the last paragraph if you don't want all the details.
Carlos "Carl" DeReese starts a blog to confide all of his troubles to around the age of twelve. The blog follows through, in diary form, his daily existence and several life changes. First his family moves to a new house and he has to start a new school away from his friends. Carl is sort of a computer nerd and has trouble making new friends at his new school until he connects with Dex who has a sticker of his favorite band on his locker. He also meets a girl he likes. Things start to improve for Carl and then everything unravels. Carl is adopted and his parents are finally having a biological child, but there is a birth defect and the baby will die soon after it is born. Anyone who thinks that stuff like this doesn't affect teenage boys is dead wrong.
Carl, hormones raging, mind reeling and entering the depths of despair, tries to get away from a teacher who is berating him and the action is taken as a threat when he knocks over a stack of chairs and it breaks a window. He is arrested and in true zero tolerance fashion of today, no one bothers to find out if there are mitigating circumstances or that the action was an accident. His parents do back him and hire a lawyer after he is sent to an alternative school that is more dangerous than anything this poor kid has ever been exposed to and his life is threatened. It is amazing that Carl survives and survives he does. With the help of the principal at his new school, he grows and learns to reclaim his life.
I really have to say I it took me about 50 pages to really get into the story, but then I was caught up in the whole drama these authors created. Everything about the story rang true: from the idiot school administrators, ineffective teachers, peer pressure to the musical background that is so important to teenagers. It really reminded me of The Perks of Being a Wallflower for it's intimate look at kids growing up and the challenges they face. I was really glad to see the parents back their son and be involved with Carl even though they had their own drama playing out. Just like in real life, it took a bit for the parents to catch on that their son was suffering, but they more than made up for it. This is one emotional read and it should really connect with adolescent boys.
WANT TO WIN THIS BOOK?
ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT
***spoiler alert*** Only read the last paragraph if you don't want all the details.
Carlos "Carl" DeReese starts a blog to confide all of his troubles to around the age of twelve. The blog follows through, in diary form, his daily existence and several life changes. First his family moves to a new house and he has to start a new school away from his friends. Carl is sort of a computer nerd and has trouble making new friends at his new school until he connects with Dex who has a sticker of his favorite band on his locker. He also meets a girl he likes. Things start to improve for Carl and then everything unravels. Carl is adopted and his parents are finally having a biological child, but there is a birth defect and the baby will die soon after it is born. Anyone who thinks that stuff like this doesn't affect teenage boys is dead wrong.
Carl, hormones raging, mind reeling and entering the depths of despair, tries to get away from a teacher who is berating him and the action is taken as a threat when he knocks over a stack of chairs and it breaks a window. He is arrested and in true zero tolerance fashion of today, no one bothers to find out if there are mitigating circumstances or that the action was an accident. His parents do back him and hire a lawyer after he is sent to an alternative school that is more dangerous than anything this poor kid has ever been exposed to and his life is threatened. It is amazing that Carl survives and survives he does. With the help of the principal at his new school, he grows and learns to reclaim his life.
I really have to say I it took me about 50 pages to really get into the story, but then I was caught up in the whole drama these authors created. Everything about the story rang true: from the idiot school administrators, ineffective teachers, peer pressure to the musical background that is so important to teenagers. It really reminded me of The Perks of Being a Wallflower for it's intimate look at kids growing up and the challenges they face. I was really glad to see the parents back their son and be involved with Carl even though they had their own drama playing out. Just like in real life, it took a bit for the parents to catch on that their son was suffering, but they more than made up for it. This is one emotional read and it should really connect with adolescent boys.
WANT TO WIN THIS BOOK?
Contest is open to anyone with reliable mail service (Worldwide and PO Boxes OK!)
Contest ends on 6.2.11 midnight and the winner will be chosen by Random.org on 6.3.11
Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email or a new winner will be chosen.
This giveaway is sponsored by the Authors and one book is available.
To Enter:
Complete the below form
Complete the below form
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Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Waiting on Wednesday: My Misadventures as a Teenage Rock Star by Joyce Raskin
This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:
Description
Rock ’n’ roll isn’t just about sex and drugs. It’s about self-expression, lasting friendships, and self-empowerment. That’s what Alex learns after she starts playing bass for a rock band in this almost true story. Joyce Raskin, author and musician, culls from her memories to create this funny, touching, and honest look at what it’s like to be a teenager, a girl, and a rock star all at the same time.
Also included are a note from the author, instructions on how to play basic guitar chords, advice on songwriting, and more!
Also included are a note from the author, instructions on how to play basic guitar chords, advice on songwriting, and more!
About the Author
Singer, songwriter, and guitarist Joyce Raskin of the popular band Scarce provides the original music for H.A. Rey's traditional Curious George Christmas Carols .Details
- Reading level: Young Adult
- Paperback: 112 pages
- Publisher: Graphia (June 13, 2011)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 0547393113
- ISBN-13: 978-0547393117
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Friday, May 13, 2011
GIVEAWAY & REVIEW: Sisters Red by Jackson Pearce
Description
Scarlett March lives to hunt the Fenris--the werewolves that took her eye when she was defending her sister Rosie from a brutal attack. Armed with a razor-sharp hatchet and blood-red cloak, Scarlett is an expert at luring and slaying the wolves. She's determined to protect other young girls from a grisly death, and her raging heart will not rest until every single wolf is dead.
Rosie March once felt her bond with her sister was unbreakable. Owing Scarlett her life, Rosie hunts ferociously alongside her. But even as more girls' bodies pile up in the city and the Fenris seem to be gaining power, Rosie dreams of a life beyond the wolves. She finds herself drawn to Silas, a young woodsman who is deadly with an ax and Scarlett's only friend--but does loving him mean betraying her sister and all that they've worked for?
Rosie March once felt her bond with her sister was unbreakable. Owing Scarlett her life, Rosie hunts ferociously alongside her. But even as more girls' bodies pile up in the city and the Fenris seem to be gaining power, Rosie dreams of a life beyond the wolves. She finds herself drawn to Silas, a young woodsman who is deadly with an ax and Scarlett's only friend--but does loving him mean betraying her sister and all that they've worked for?
About the Author
Jackson Pearce is the author of Sisters Red and As You Wish. She lives in Atlanta, Georgia.Details
- Reading level: Young Adult
- Hardcover: 336 pages
- Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers; 1 edition (June 7, 2010)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 0316068683
- ISBN-13: 978-0316068680
LOVED IT
Scarlett can give Buffy a run for her money in the kicking butt department and she is teaching her younger sister, Rose, to hunt the Fenris (werewolves) after she is injured and loses an eye to one. Their neighbor, Silas, is a woodsman and quite handy with an ax and he joins in their hunt for revenge on the werewolves. The story is told by each girl in alternating chapters and shows how each of the girls develop their own personality even though they are one heart in two pieces. Scarlett is all about the hunt while Rosie is a bit timid with all things. Things between the two girls start to change when Silas, the neighborhood woodsman, comes into the picture when they move to Atlanta to try and kill more wolves than they can reach in the small rural town they live in.
Things change when Rosie starts to become more independent with Silas' help and Scarlett realizes she is losing her to Silas. There is a lot of action, some gruesome, in the story but overall, it is done with a light touch. I love the strength that Scarlett portrays and how Rosie starts to develop her own personality over her somewhat overbearing sister. Silas, in a twist I didn't see coming, shows much maturity and courage that the story needs to move forward. This should be a must read for mash up fairy tale fans and other than some violent images and a bit of kissing, there is not much for parents to worry about.
WANT TO WIN THIS arc BOOK?
Contest is open to anyone with reliable mail service (Worldwide and PO Boxes OK!)
Contest ends on 5.31.11 midnight and the winner will be chosen by Random.org on 6.1.11
Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email or a new winner will be chosen.
This giveaway is sponsored by ME one book is available.
To Enter:
Complete the below form
Complete the below form
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Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Waiting on Wednesday: Sweetly by Jackson Pearce
This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:
Description
As a child, Gretchen's twin sister was taken by a witch in the woods. Ever since, Gretchen and her brother, Ansel, have felt the long branches of the witch's forest threatening to make them disappear, too.
Years later, when their stepmother casts Gretchen and Ansel out, they find themselves in sleepy Live Oak, South Carolina. They're invited to stay with Sophia Kelly, a beautiful candy maker who molds sugary magic: coveted treats that create confidence, bravery, and passion.
Life seems idyllic and Gretchen and Ansel gradually forget their haunted past-- until Gretchen meets handsome local outcast Samuel. He tells her the witch isn't gone-- it's lurking in the forest, preying on girls every year after Live Oak's infamous chocolate festival, and looking to make Gretchen it's next victim. Gretchen is determined to stop running and start fighting back. Yet the further she investigates the mystery of what the witch is and how it chooses its victims, the more she wonders who the real monster is.
Gretchen is certain of only one thing: a monster is coming, and it will never go away hungry.
Years later, when their stepmother casts Gretchen and Ansel out, they find themselves in sleepy Live Oak, South Carolina. They're invited to stay with Sophia Kelly, a beautiful candy maker who molds sugary magic: coveted treats that create confidence, bravery, and passion.
Life seems idyllic and Gretchen and Ansel gradually forget their haunted past-- until Gretchen meets handsome local outcast Samuel. He tells her the witch isn't gone-- it's lurking in the forest, preying on girls every year after Live Oak's infamous chocolate festival, and looking to make Gretchen it's next victim. Gretchen is determined to stop running and start fighting back. Yet the further she investigates the mystery of what the witch is and how it chooses its victims, the more she wonders who the real monster is.
Gretchen is certain of only one thing: a monster is coming, and it will never go away hungry.
About the Author
Jackson Pearce is the author of Sisters Red and As You Wish. She lives in Atlanta, Georgia.Details
- Reading level: Young Adult
- Hardcover: 320 pages
- Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers (August 23, 2011)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 0316068659
- ISBN-13: 978-0316068659
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Monday, May 9, 2011
REVIEW: Dead is Not An Option by Marlene Perez
Description
It’s springtime of senior year, and psychic sleuth Daisy Giordano is preparing to say goodbye to Nightshade High. But no college acceptance letters have arrived yet, and she’s beginning to worry about where she’ll end up come fall—and if it will be anywhere near her boyfriend, Ryan. But that’s not the only uncertainty Daisy’s dealing with. There’s a vamps-versus-shifters war going on in Nightshade, and things are so tense that there is talk of canceling the prom. The conflict is carrying over to the Giordano home, since Rose and Daisy are both dating werewolves and Poppy’s new boyfriend is a vampire.
Can the paranormal community in Nightshade finally find peace? And will Daisy and her friends survive graduation? All of these questions and more are answered in the latest explosive installment in the Dead Is series.
Can the paranormal community in Nightshade finally find peace? And will Daisy and her friends survive graduation? All of these questions and more are answered in the latest explosive installment in the Dead Is series.
About the Author
MARLENE PEREZ is the author of many books, including the Dead Is series, The Comeback, Love in the Corner Pocket, and Unexpected Development, an ALA Quick Pick for Reluctant Young Adult Readers. She lives in Orange County, California.
www.marleneperez.com
www.marleneperez.com
Details
- Reading level: Young Adult
- Paperback: 252 pages
- Publisher: Graphia (May 2, 2011)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 0547345933
- ISBN-13: 978-0547345932
LOVED IT
Daisy is now a senior in high school and waiting for her college acceptance letter. Strange things are happening again in Nightshade, especially with her friend Sam and Sam's father, who was her dad's partner at the University. Her father has survived his capture by the Scourge and accepts her were boyfriend Ryan with a bit more tolerance. She is trying hard to solve the mystery of Lil and Balthazar who were turned into a jukebox and pig respectively by the witch, Circe. There is someone who is trying to create tension between the vampire and werewolf communities and it is up to Daisy to figure out the source of crime. So Daisy, is off with the help of her sisters, Rose and Poppy to discover and put an end to the town's conflict.
This is a quick read and enjoyable to follow Daisy through the clues and puzzles that confront her. It is wonderful to watch Daisy grow into her own and gain competence over her psychic abilities. Some of the characters could have been a bit more developed and I would have liked to read a bit more about her friend Sam. I really hope that we get to follow Daisy through her college years and see her develop her skills a bit more. This is a great series for reluctant readers since it is very easy to grasp and follow through with all of the characters. There is just a bit of kissing and maybe one bad word in the whole thing.
AND THE WINNER IS: Spring Carnival
Be sure to stop by Erin's Blog Quitting my Day Job HERE
An email has been sent to the lucky people named above (first part of their email address in case my note ends up in spam). The winner(s) has 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Thanks to all who entered.
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Read Every Day. Lead a Better Life - Charity Auction - 12 Original Art Works!
Read Every Day Online Charity Auction
Twelve outstanding children’s illustrators have created their artistic interpretation of the global literacy campaign — Read Every Day. Lead a Better Life.
An online auction of the original artwork opens May 5, 2011 at 6:00pm at scholastic.com/readeveryday. Artists participating in the auction are: Norman Bridwell, Bruce Degen, Edwin Fotheringham, Mary GrandPré, Barbara McClintock, Jon J Muth, Sean Qualls, Stephen Savage, David Shannon, Jeff Smith, Mark Teague and Raina Telgemeier.After the auction closes June 5, 2011, poster-sized reproductions will be available for purchase. Proceeds from the auction and sales of posters and other items will benefit the nonprofits Reading Is Fundamental and Reach Out and Read.
You know I would bid on the Clifford picture. My mom collected Clifford and the bid red dog holds a special place in my heart.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Friday, May 6, 2011
Spotlight: The Atomic Weight Secrets by Eden Unger Bowditch
Description
In 1903, five truly brilliant young inventors, the children of the world's most important scientists, went about their lives and their work as they always had.
But all that changed the day the men in black arrived.
They arrived to take twelve-year-old Jasper Modest and his six-year-old sister, Lucy he with his remarkable creations and she with her perfect memory from their London, England home to a place across the ocean they'd never seen before.
They arrived to take nine-year-old Wallace Banneker, last in a long line of Africa-descended scientists, from his chemistry, his father, and his New York home to a life he d never imagined.
Twelve-year-old Noah Canto-Sagas, already missing his world-famous and beloved mother, was taken from Toronto, Canada, carrying only his clothes, his violin, and his remarkable mind.
And thirteen-year-old Faye Vigyanveta, the genius daughter of India's wealthiest and most accomplished scientists, was removed by force from her life of luxury.
From all across the world, they've been taken to mysterious Sole Manner Farm, and a beautiful but isolated schoolhouse in Dayton, Ohio, without a word from their parents as to why. Not even the wonderful schoolteacher they find there, Miss Brett, can explain it. She can give them love and care, but she can t give them answers.
Things only get stranger from there. What is the book with no pages Jasper and Lucy find in their mother's underwear drawer, and why do the men in black want it so badly?
How is it all the children have been taught the same bizarre poem and yet no other rhymes or stories their entire lives?
And why haven't their parents tried to contact them?
Whatever the reasons, to brash, impetuous Faye, the situation is clear: They and their parents have been kidnapped by these terrible men in black, and the only way they're going to escape and rescue their parents is by completing the invention they didn't even know they were all working on an invention that will change the world forever.
But what if the men in black aren't trying to harm the children? What if they're trying to protect them?
And if they're trying to protect them, from what?
An amazing story about the wonders of science and the still greater wonders of friendship, The Atomic Weight of Secrets or The Mysterious Men in Black , the first book of the Young Inventors Guild trilogy, is a truly original novel. Young readers will forever treasure Eden Unger Bowditch's funny, inventive, poignant, and wonderfully fun fiction debut.
But all that changed the day the men in black arrived.
They arrived to take twelve-year-old Jasper Modest and his six-year-old sister, Lucy he with his remarkable creations and she with her perfect memory from their London, England home to a place across the ocean they'd never seen before.
They arrived to take nine-year-old Wallace Banneker, last in a long line of Africa-descended scientists, from his chemistry, his father, and his New York home to a life he d never imagined.
Twelve-year-old Noah Canto-Sagas, already missing his world-famous and beloved mother, was taken from Toronto, Canada, carrying only his clothes, his violin, and his remarkable mind.
And thirteen-year-old Faye Vigyanveta, the genius daughter of India's wealthiest and most accomplished scientists, was removed by force from her life of luxury.
From all across the world, they've been taken to mysterious Sole Manner Farm, and a beautiful but isolated schoolhouse in Dayton, Ohio, without a word from their parents as to why. Not even the wonderful schoolteacher they find there, Miss Brett, can explain it. She can give them love and care, but she can t give them answers.
Things only get stranger from there. What is the book with no pages Jasper and Lucy find in their mother's underwear drawer, and why do the men in black want it so badly?
How is it all the children have been taught the same bizarre poem and yet no other rhymes or stories their entire lives?
And why haven't their parents tried to contact them?
Whatever the reasons, to brash, impetuous Faye, the situation is clear: They and their parents have been kidnapped by these terrible men in black, and the only way they're going to escape and rescue their parents is by completing the invention they didn't even know they were all working on an invention that will change the world forever.
But what if the men in black aren't trying to harm the children? What if they're trying to protect them?
And if they're trying to protect them, from what?
An amazing story about the wonders of science and the still greater wonders of friendship, The Atomic Weight of Secrets or The Mysterious Men in Black , the first book of the Young Inventors Guild trilogy, is a truly original novel. Young readers will forever treasure Eden Unger Bowditch's funny, inventive, poignant, and wonderfully fun fiction debut.
About the Author
Eden Unger Bowditch has been writing since she was very small. She has been writing since she could use her brain to think of something to say. She wrote while attaining her undergraduate degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and she wrote songs as lead singer of the band Enormous.
She has written stories and plays and shopping lists and screenplays and dreams and poems and also books about her longtime Baltimore home, like Growing Up in Baltimore and Druid Hill Park: The Historic Heart of Baltimore. She has been a journalist, as well as a welder, and an editor, and other things, too.
The Atomic Weight of Secrets is her first young adult novel, and she has been as excited writing it as she hopes you are reading it.
Presently, Eden lives with her family (husband and three children) in Cairo, Egypt. But that s another story entirely . . .
She has written stories and plays and shopping lists and screenplays and dreams and poems and also books about her longtime Baltimore home, like Growing Up in Baltimore and Druid Hill Park: The Historic Heart of Baltimore. She has been a journalist, as well as a welder, and an editor, and other things, too.
The Atomic Weight of Secrets is her first young adult novel, and she has been as excited writing it as she hopes you are reading it.
Presently, Eden lives with her family (husband and three children) in Cairo, Egypt. But that s another story entirely . . .
Details
- Reading level: Young Adult
- Hardcover: 320 pages
- Publisher: Bancroft Press (March 15, 2011)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 9781610880022
- ISBN-13: 978-1610880022
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Waiting on Wednesday: Forever by Maggie Stiefvator
"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.
This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:
Description
The thrilling conclusion to #1 bestselling Shiver trilogy from Maggie StievaterIn Maggie Stiefvater's SHIVER, Grace and Sam found each other. In LINGER, they fought to be together. Now, in FOREVER, the stakes are even higher than before. Wolves are being hunted. Lives are being threatened. And love is harder and harder to hold on to as death comes closing in.
About the Author
Maggie Stiefvater is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the novels Shiver, Linger, and Forever. She is also the author of Lament: The Faerie Queen’s Deception and Ballad: A Gathering of Faerie. She lives in Virginia with her husband and their two children. You can visit her online at www.maggiestiefvater.com.
Details
- Reading level: Young Adult
- Hardcover: 400 pages
- Publisher: Scholastic Press (July 12, 2011)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 0545259088
- ISBN-13: 978-0545259088
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
AND THE WINNER IS: City of Bones by Cassandra Clare
Be sure to visit THE BLOGGING BOOK here
An email has been sent to the lucky person named above (first part of their email address in case my note ends up in spam). The winner(s) has 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Thanks to all who entered.
PLEASE CHECK YOUR SPAM FOR THE EMAIL FROM BOOKHOUNDS @ HOTMAIL REQUESTING YOUR MAILING ADDRESS!
Didn't win? Order your copy from my Amazon link:
REVIEW: The Discovery by Marley Gibson @HMHCo
Description
After some time off, Kendall’s ready to begin ghost hunting again. But her life is still in flux. She misses Patrick, her new love. She needs to find a photographer to replace Taylor. Plus, she may have discovered who her real father is, but to be sure, she has to convince his family she’s not a fake. And then there’s a certain doll that seems to be out to get her and her friends. A doll? How could that be? Unless, perhaps, it’s not just a doll. Maybe it’s a vessel containing the soul of a man so evil in life, not even death could stop his reign of terror. This could be Kendall’s most terrifying and deadliest encounter yet.
About the Author
MARLEY GIBSON is the author of all of the Ghost Huntress books, and co-wrote The Other Side with Patrick Burns and Dave Schrader. She lives in Boston, MA, and can be found online at www.marleygibson.com or at her blog, www.booksboys buzz.com.
Details
- Reading level: Young Adult
- Paperback: 264 pages
- Publisher: Graphia (May 2, 2011)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 0547393083
- ISBN-13: 978-0547393087
MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT
One Word: Chucky.
This latest installment of the Ghost Huntress brought new heights of creepy to this fun and fabulous read. Kendall has just returned from a seminar by a world famous television ghost hunter and is armed with a few new methods. Her ex and his twin have left the area leaving an opening for a photographer and a boyfriend. She meets Patrick at the retreat and quickly falls in love with him. It also doesn't hurt that they can communicate telepathically. She is also searching for her birth father and finally gets a strong lead. The creep factor in this book is due to a doll made by a slave and infused with a spirit to protect her charge from harm. The doll turns evil and the town is beset with accidents and a death.
Kendall and her gang try to unravel the secrets of a local historical home and in turn release the spirit that is a poltergeist of hurt. They discover a devastating secret about the house's owner that makes Kendall wonder if she is strong enough to deal with it. The story is well balanced with the fun and flirt of Kendall's budding romance with Patrick and scary part of the ghost hunt. The door is left open again for another installment and more closure about her birth parents. I love this series and you probably could read this one as a stand alone, but I think each book builds upon the next, so it would be best to start with Kendall's complete history.
This is best suited for teens older than thirteen since there are some disturbing images. There is a few instances of bad language, some kissing but nothing more than that. I have recommended this series to teens that are reluctant readers since it has enough action to keep them interested and they are quick reads. If you have read Marlene Perez's Dead Is series, you will love this one just as much.
Monday, May 2, 2011
BookPerk: Wanted by Sara Shepard + Lip Venom
Pretty Little Liars: Wanted + FREE Venom Gloss Set!
Fans of Sara Shepard’s best-selling Pretty Little Liars series are dying to know one thing: Who is A? The answer is revealed in Wanted, but you’ve got to read the book to find out. Celebrate the paperback release of Wanted and give your pretty little lips a glossy treat with Bookperk’s prettiest perk yet. When you order the book, you'll receive a FREE four-pack Venom lip gloss set from DuWop®.The Skinny
• Paperback copy of Sara Shepard's Pretty Little Liars #8: Wanted.
• FREE Venom Gloss Set! Four colors of DuWop®'s Venom Gloss, one for each character! Lip Venom was the very first lip plumper on the market, creating the lip plumping category for the beauty industry. And If beautiful shine with stunning color and the Venom tingle is what you're looking for, Venom Gloss delivers. Blending that same spicy concoction of cinnamon, wintergreen and ginger with skin softening ingredients like jojoba, avocado and sunflower oil, beeswax for protection, and green tea for soothing, Venom Gloss gives you full, soft, hydrated lips.
Your four colors include:
• Love in a Mist
• Lantana
• Pink Champagne
• Berry Chill
• DuWop® is also offering 15% off all Lip Venom products THIS WEEK! Simply enter the promo code: VENOMGOSSIP at checkout now through May 4th.
• Offer available in the US only.
$8.99!
Go HERE to order
• FREE Venom Gloss Set! Four colors of DuWop®'s Venom Gloss, one for each character! Lip Venom was the very first lip plumper on the market, creating the lip plumping category for the beauty industry. And If beautiful shine with stunning color and the Venom tingle is what you're looking for, Venom Gloss delivers. Blending that same spicy concoction of cinnamon, wintergreen and ginger with skin softening ingredients like jojoba, avocado and sunflower oil, beeswax for protection, and green tea for soothing, Venom Gloss gives you full, soft, hydrated lips.
Your four colors include:
• Love in a Mist
• Lantana
• Pink Champagne
• Berry Chill
• DuWop® is also offering 15% off all Lip Venom products THIS WEEK! Simply enter the promo code: VENOMGOSSIP at checkout now through May 4th.
• Offer available in the US only.
$8.99!
Go HERE to order
Deal expires on Wednesday
4th May at 10 pm EST
4th May at 10 pm EST
The deal is on!
Offer now available with 24 bought
Offer now available with 24 bought
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