Twenty Boy Summer

Twenty Boy Summer

Sarah Ockler

Little Brown Books for Younger Readers

$16.99 U.S. (Hardcover)

FTC: I borrowed this book from the library.

Synopsis from Barnes and Noble:

According to her best friend Frankie, twenty days in Zanzibar Bay is the perfect opportunity to have a summer fling, and if they meet one boy every day, there's a pretty good chance Anna will find her first summer romance. Anna lightheartedly agrees to the game, but there's something she hasn't told Frankie -- she's already had that kind of romance, and it was with Frankie's older brother, Matt, just before his tragic death one year ago.

My Thoughts:

I was surprised by this book. I expected it to be your typical girl loses boy book where the girl is not able to move on, but I got much more than I bargained for. I absolutely loved this book. I felt so many emotions as I read each page from love to hate, from happiness to anger, from sorrow to acceptance and many more. This book was beautifully written. I think it was also very inspiring. While I did want more, this book ended in a good place. I felt like Sarah Ockler did a good job of leaving the characters in a good place. I absolutely loved the plot turns near the end, and could never have expected them. I am really glad I chose to read this book. An added bonus was the fact that it was from the library so it had the distinctive book smell, and crinkly cover.

Recommendation:

Anyone looking for a good summer love story.

Grade: A

Age: 15 and up

Quote: "Like the stars, fasing with the halo of the vanishing moon. Like the ocean, falling and whispering against the shore. Nothing ever really goes away -- it just changes into something else. Something Beautiful." ~Anna

The Devouring

The Devouring

Simon Holt

Little Brown Books for Young Readers

$7.99 U.S.

FTC: I am not receiving any compensation for promoting this book

Synopsis from the back of the book:

When dark creeps in and eats the light, bury your fears on sorry night. For in the winters blackest hours comes the feasting of the vours.

The Vours: evil, demonic beings that inhabit human bodies on Sorry Night, the eve of the winter solstice.

When Reggie reads about the Vours in an old, mysterious joural, she assumes these are just the musings of an anonymous lunatic. But when her little brother, Henry, begins to act strangely, it's clear that these creatures exist beyond a madwoman's imagination, and Reggie finds out what happens when fears come to life.

My Thoughts:

I Thought this book looked kind of scary but also really interesting. After looking it up I went out and bought it! I loved the cover of this book. The swirling purple drew me in but then I looked at the girls face. There were so many emotions there.I am excited to read this book because it looks different than the other things I have been reading lately. It sounds like a ghost story gone wrong. Keep a look out for the review!!!

Let It Snow

Let It Snow: Three Holiday Romances

John Green, Maureen Johnson, Lauren Myracle

Penguin Group

$9.99 U.S.

FTC: I purchased this book.

Synopsis by Barnes and Noble:

The weather outside is frightful, but these stories are delightful! When a huge blizzard (that doesn't show signs of stopping) hits, Gracetown is completely snowed in. But even though it's cold outside, things are heating up inside, proving that the holiday season is magical when it comes to love. In three wonderfully (and hilariously!) interconnected tales, YA stars John Green, Lauren Myracle, and Maureen Johnson create a must-have collection that captures all the spirit of the holiday season.

My Thoghts:

Love! I read this right before Christmas and it was just perfect. I bought this book because I needed a winter story to curl up and read next to fire. If that is what you are looking for than this is the right book. I absolutely love that the stories were all connected. It was exciting to see three different parts of the story work together as well as see it from the point of view from three different characters. I think each author added their own individual flair to their stories which made you feel intrigued, it also made you want to keep reading to see if more would happen. I think that the three short stories were masterfully tailored together to create on amazing snow time novel. The ending was perfect, and I was so excited that i decided to pick this book up.

Recommendations: Anyon looking for a winter read.

Grade: A

Age: 13 and up

Quotes:

"There is nothing about a bad situation that four hyper cheerleaders can't worsen." ~Jubilee, The Jubilee Express-Maureen johnson

"The middle is never the end, though." ~Tobin, A Cheertasric Miracle-John Green

"The new me, however, was not a whimperer." ~Addie, The Patron Saint of Pigs-Lauren Myracle

Ella Enchanted

vs.

Ella Enchanted was written by Gail Carson Levine in 1997. In 1998 It was awarded the Newbery Honor. In 2004 the beloved novel was turned into a movie starring Anne Hathaway. When it comes to comparing the two it very easy for me to say that the Book wins hands down. I have read the book many times, and love it every time I read it. I was very excited when they decided to make it a movie but then I was let down when it came out. While the basic plot was the same, the overall feelings of the book were not portrayed. I think that the large issue came because the movie came out so much later than the book. The book was a classic when the movie was made, and it is hard to replicate a classic. I would recommend reading the book, because there is much more detail.

Lipstick Apology

Lipsitck Apology

Jennifer Jabaley

Penguin Group

$9.99 U.S.

FTC: I borrowed this book from a friend, who received it from a publisher. I will provide an honest review without compensation.

Synopsis by Barnes and Noble:

Sometimes a good-bye is just the beginning...
When Emily Carson's parents die in a plane crash, she's left with nothing but her mother's last words scrawled in lipstick on a tray table: "Emily, please forgive me."
Now it's fall and Emily moves to New York City— where she attracts the attention of two very different boys: the cute, popular Owen, and her quirky chemistry partner, Anthony. With the help of some surprising new friends, Emily must choose between the boy who helps her forget and the one who encourages her to remember, and ultimately heal.
Debut author Jennifer Jabaley has written a wonderful, feel-good romantic comedy with real emotional depth. Full of lovably wacky characters, Lipstick Apology is a heartwarming story about the true meaning of forgiveness

My Thoughts:

I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I found it to be a heartfelt story about loss as well as forgiveness and love. I think that Emily was a great lead female character. She was very relatable and you found yourself empthyzing with her. This message portrayed many good values, but never came off as preachy. Throughout the book the characters learned forgiveness, as well as the ability to love yourself. I think that this made me love the book even more. Jennifer Jabaley addressed some very big issues, but she did it with poise. I think that this novel is very empowering for women. I absoloutely loved it. I think the charcter development was well done. I was able to feel as if I had known these people my entire life.

Recommendations: All Girls!!!

Grade: A

Age: 14 and up

Quote: "the sStatue of Liberty, the universal symbol of freedom was perched on a small twelve-acre island in the middle of the rocky, turbulent Hudson River. And suddenly it occured o me: maybe that's because the road to freedom is never a cal journey. Maybe you have to battle the currents to reach the ultimate giak, Freedom from the grief. Freedom from the mystery. Freedom from the truth." ~Emily

Super Contest

So today I was scanning through book blogs and found this blog. I was really intrigued and I saw that it is having a major contest. I think everyone should check out Book Bound! Here is the link for the contest http://b00kbound.blogspot.com/2010/01/mega-giveaway-best-ya-of-2009.html

Incarceron

Incarceron

Catherine Firsher

Penguin Group (USA)

$17.99 U.S. (Hardcover)

Release Date: TODAY!!!! 1/26/2010

FTC: I am not being compensated for mentioning this book.

Synopsis by Barnes and Noble:

Incarceron is a prison so vast that it contains not only cells, but also metal forests, dilapidated cities, and vast wilderness. Finn, a 17-year-old prisoner, has no memorie of his childhood and is sure that he came from Outside Incarceron. Very few prisoners believe that there is an Outside, however, which makes escapes seem impossible.

nd then Finn finds a crystal key that lets him communicate with a girlnamed Claudia. She claims to live outside -She is tha daughter of the Warden of Incarceron, and is doomed to an arranged marriage. Finn is determined to escape the prison, and Claudia thinks she can help him. But they don't realize that there is more to Incarceron than meets the eye. Escape will take their greatest courage and more than they know.

My Thoughts:

I do not know why but the moment I heard about this book I was hooked and wanting to read it. This is such a unique and different concept than anything I have been reading. Not to judge a book by its cover but this one looks dark, and also intriguing. I think that Incarceron will provide a much needed break from the ordinary. I cannot wait to read it!

The Naughty List

The Naught List

Suzanne Young

Penguin Group

$9.99 U.S.

Released Date: February 4, 2010

FTC: I borrowed this book from a friend who received it from a publisher, I agree to provide an honest review knowing I will not be compensated.

Synopsis by Barnes and Noble:

As if being a purrfect cheerleader isn't enough responsibility! Tessa Crimson's the sweet and spunky leader of the SOS (Society of Smitten Kittens), a cheer squad–turned–spy society dedicated to bringing dastardly boyfriends to justice, one cheater at a time. Boyfriend-busting wouldn't be so bad . . . except that so far, every suspect on the Naughty List has been proven 100% guilty!
When Tessa's own boyfriend shows up on the List, she turns her sleuthing skills on him. Is Aiden just as naughty as all the rest, or will Tessa's sneaky ways end in catastrophe?
The Naughty List. Is your boyfriend on it?

My Thoughts:

It took me a bit to get into this book, but once I did I loved it. This book was different than anything I have read recently. I loved the main characters, Tessa especially. Her need to always be peppy radiates through the book, and makes it fun for you to read. I love Suzanne's word choice throughout the book. Since Tessa does not approve of language she often uses cute catch phrases like "So strawberyr Smoothie." I think the book provides enough mystery to it, to keep you reading. You find yourself questioning the integrity of some of the characters and wondering what will happen next. I think this book provides a fun new twist to the average cheerleader. I found myself rooting for Aiden and Tessa through book, and hoping among all hope that things would work out. I found this book to be fun and peppy just like Suzanne and I cannot wait for the second one to come out in the Summer.

Recommendations: Everyone should read it!

Grade: A

Age: 15 and up

Quote: "Toasted Ravioli! I was busted." ~ Tessa

Crash Into Me

Crash Into Me

Albert Borris

Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing

$16.99 U.S. (Hardcover)

FTC: I chose this book on my own and am not being compensated for it.

Synopsis by Barnes and Noble:

Owen, Frank, Audrey, and Jin-Ae have one thing in common: they all want to die.When they meet online after each attempts suicide and fails, the four teens make a deadly pact: they will escape together on a deadly road trip to visit the sites of celebrity suicides.... and at their final destination, they will all end their lives. As they drive cross-country, bounding over their dark impulses, sharing their deepest secrets and desires, living it up, hooking up, and becoming true friends, each must decide whether life is worth living -- or if there's no turning back.

Why:

I think that this looks like one of those books that everyone should read. It looks like a real emotional book. This is normally not the type of book I would read, but something inside of me keeps telling me to. I am planning on reading this book sometime soon, I think it will be a real eye opener. I hope that there will be a good ending, but I will have to wait and read to find out.

What My Girlfriend Doesn't Know

What My Girlfirend Doesn't Know

Sonya Sones

Simon Pulse

$7.99 U.S.

FTC: I borrowed this book from a friend. They did not receive it from a publisher.

Synopsis by Barnes and Noble:

My name is Robin. This book is about me. It tells the story of what happens when after almost 15 pathetic years of loserdom, the girl of my dreams finally falls for me. That seems like it would be a good thing, right? Only it turns out to be a lot more complicated than that Because I'm not gonna lie to you -- there are naked women involved. Four of them, to be exact. Though not in the way you might think. Don't get me wrong -- my girlfriend's amazing. But the way things have been going lately, I'm starting to believe that the only thing worse than not getting what you want, is getting it.

My Thoughts:

I found myself getting frustrated while I read this book. While I did like parts of it, most of it made me angry. I could not quite relate to the characters, it may have been age or just their general lack of personality. Robin had a ahrd time owning up to who he was, even if he tried portraying differently. His relationship with Sophie was just a disaster. I think that when two people only rely on eachother it is destined to end poorly, as happened in the book. The book was by far not the worst thing I read, it was just not what I expected. I remember reading Sophie's story in What My Mother Doesnt Know a long time ago and loving it, so maybe there was just to much time in between. Since the book was in verse I was able to read it quickly and I think that helped keep my attention.

Recommendation: Anyone who has fel their relationship is forbidden

Grade: B-

Age: 13 and up

Quote: "Still, it's a relief to be together when no one else is around." - Robin

Princess Diaries

Since I posted about a Meg Cabot Novel Yesterday, i figured I would continue on with that theme today!

I read about 5 of the Princess diaries books, before i stopped. I was amazed to see that there are 10 books out now. There have also been two movies made based off of the acclaimed series.

In the books we get to experience more of Mia's day to day life and see that even after she becomes a Princess that she has the real world to deal with and sometimes it just is not pretty. As far into the books as I got The grandmother was a scarier woman than in the movie. Mia did not really like her, and she was portrayed as strict and not as loving as the character portrayed by Julie Andrews. I believe that in the last book I read Michael was playing an active part in Mia's life, but in the latest movie he was completely gone. While I did love Princess Diaries 2 it was nothing like any of the books I read. I think that after seeing the first movie, people needed an ending and thus the movie was made. I believe that the largest difference between the books and first movie was the portrayl of the grandmother. In the books there as a woman who I pictured to look more like Cruella de Ville, who did not have a whole lot of love to give. In the movie there was Julie Andrews, enough said. I do not think one is better than the other but there are advantages to reading the book as well as watching the movie.

Being Nikki

Being Nikki

Meg Cabot

Scholastic Inc.

$16.99 U.S. (Hardcover)

FTC: I borrowed this book from my friend who received it from a publisher. I am providing an honest review for no compensation.

Synopsis by Barnes and Noble:

Things aren't pretty for Emerson Watts.
Em was sure there couldn't be anything worse than being a brainiac the body of a teenaged supermodel.
But it turned out she was wrong. Because that supermodel could turn out to have a mother who's gone mysteriously missing, a brother who's shown up on her doorstep demanding answers, a former best friend who's intent on destroying Stark Enterprises to avenge the death of his lost love, and a British heartthrob who's written a song about her that's topping the charts.
How can Em balance all that with school, runway shows, and weekend jaunts to St. Johns - especially when she's got ex-boyfriends crawling out of the woodwork who want more than just a photo op; a sister who is headed to the high school cheerleading championships; a company she represents that seems to be turning to the dark side...
Not to mention trying to convince the love of her life that models aren't really airheads after all...especially one model in particular.
But then, nobody said it was going to be easy being Nikki.

My Thoughts: I had long been awaiting the sequel to Airhead, and the wait was worth it. I loved Being Nikki. Being Nikki had an intriguing plot filled with twists and turns that no one could ever have guessed, including me. I found myself engrossed in the novel wondering what was going to happen and then being completely baffled when something did happen. I think that this novel surpassed its predcessor, with the twists and turns that were written in. We see Em learning to truly become Nikki, but we also see her finding more of herself as well. I love the character of Em. I can relate to her, and I find myself siding with her often. I think that reading this book takes you on a journey, you are able to see into the world of a super model, but also to travel through the changing life of a girl who only wants one boy to notice her. I think that this book was artfuly done, it kept me engaged with every page. I cannot wait for the next one.

Recommenation: Anyone who loves Meg Cabot

Grade: A

Age; 15 and up

Quote: "My eyes ended up looking more haunted than smoky." -Em as Nikki

Bonus!

Here is a bonus for you all. I stole this off my friends blog http://mustlovelabradors.blogspot.com/ so here it is:

01: What author do you own the most books by?Uhhh well hmmm Cecily von Ziegesar because at the moment I have all the Gossip girl books

02: What book do you own the most copies of? I have 2 copies of twilight at the moment

03: Did it bother you that both those questions ended with prepositions?Not really, I was not paying enough attention for it to bother me

04: What fictional character are you secretly in love with? Well I do not think it has ever been a secret that I love Fictional boys. Ariel and I made a list one time containing close to 30 boys. But since I have read the book recently I will say either Erik Night from the Marked Series, Nash Hudson (a.k.a Chace Crawfor in my mind) from the Soul Screamers series, or Christophe from the Strange Angels Series. Trust me, there are many more

05: What book have you read the most times in your life (excluding picture books read to children; i.e., Goodnight Moon does not count)? Ella Enchanted, iI don; even know how many times, but I did once in high school for a book report.

06: What was your favorite book when you were ten years old?10? Ella Enchanted, or The Jewel Princesses Books

07: What is the worst book you’ve read in the past year? Hmmm I ten dto only continue reading books if I like them, but the biggest disappointment was Shadowland, or Ink Exchange

08: What is the best book you’ve read in the past year?So many, the biggest surprise was L.A. Candy

09: If you could force everyone you tagged to read one book, what would it be? Man this is hard, probably Harry Potter, it is going to be a classic

10: Who deserves to win the next Nobel Prize for 'Literature?I think that writing has changed a lot since that prize was created, but I have no clue.

11: What book would you most like to see made into a movie? Ooooh so many, but probably Evernight by Claudia Gray

12: What book would you least like to see made into a movie?L.A. Candy, it would end up being like an extra long episode of the Hills, I loved the book but it should be no more than that.

13: Describe your weirdest dream involving a writer, book, or literary character. Oh goodness.... Lets just say I have had many weird Twilight dreams

14: What is the most lowbrow book you’ve read as an adult?I cannot think of any to describe that way

15: What is the most difficult book you’ve ever read?The Grapes of Wrath. The writing style and plot made me want to cry.

16: What is the most obscure Shakespeare play you’ve seen?Well the movie version of Romeo and Juliet with leonardo DiCaprio was pretty obscure.

17: Do you prefer the French or the Russians?Russians.?

18: Roth or Updike? I recognize the name Updike

19: David Sedaris or Dave Eggers? Eggers?

20: Shakespeare, Milton, or Chaucer? Probably Shakespeare, I did actually like some Chaucer

21: Austen or Eliot?You have to love Austen

22: What is the biggest or most embarrassing gap in your reading?Oh goodness the time between High School and Twilight

23: What is your favorite novel?Seriously? Catcher in the Rye is one of the best Classics ever

24: Play? The Crucible

25: Poem? Road Not Taken- Frost

26; Essay?No clue

27: Short story? Uhh I loved the short stories by John green, Maureen johnson, and Lauren Myracle in Let It Snow

28: Work of nonfiction?Hmmm There are No Children Here, Alex Kolowitz

29: Who is your favorite writer? I cannot name jst one...

30: Who is the most overrated writer alive today?Stephen King (I left Ariel's answer lol)

31: What is your desert island book?Hmm how about all my books?

32: And… what are you reading right now?There Are No Children Here by Alez Kolowitz, and Lipstick Apology by Jennifer Jabaley

Heartless

Heartless

Sara Shepard

Released: TODAY!!! January 19, 2010

HarperTeen

$16.99 U.S. (Hardback)

288 pages

Synopsis by Amazon:

In picturesque Rosewood, Pennsylvania, neighbors gossip over picket fences, and gleaming SUVs sit in every crushed-granite driveway. But recently, friendly smiles have been replaced with suspicious glares and accusatory whispers—and it's all because Hanna, Aria, Emily, and Spencer just can't keep their mouths shut. . . .
First they claimed they found a dead body in the woods behind Spencer's house, only to have it vanish without a trace. Then when the same woods went up in flames, they swore they saw someone who's supposed to be dead rise from the ashes. And even after all that, the pretty little liars are still playing with fire.
Hanna's trading in her Dior trench for a straitjacket. Aria's trying to contact the dead. Emily's dumped her boyfriend and is skipping town . . . again. And Spencer thinks someone in her family has gotten away with murder.
The friends insist they're telling the truth about what they saw, but all of Rosewood thinks they're simply out for attention—and nobody likes a girl who cries wolf. So when the big bad killer comes after the girls, will anyone believe them . . . or will they be the next to disappear?

Why: Here is the much awaited 7th installment of Sara Shepard's hit series Pretty Little Liars. I have eben ready for this book to come out since I finished Killer!!! I am so excited that it is out, I cannot wait to see what goes on in the mystery, and how the girl work together to keep there sanity as well as credibly!!! I hope to read this very soon!

2010 Book Challenge

Today insteand of a review I bring you a challenge. Many of you have probably already signed up, but here is the site http://j-kaye-book-blog.blogspot.com/2009/11/new-2010-reading-challenge-100-reading.html I hve signed up and am ready to read 100 books this year! Good luck everyone, so far my list includes:
1. Being Nikki
2. My Soul to Save
3. Betrayed
4. Dancing in my Nuddy-Pants
5. Gossip Girl: I Like it Like That
6.Chasing Brooklyn
7.Far From You

Let the reading begin!

Blackbringer

Blackbringer: A Faeries of Dreadmark Novel

Laini Taylor

Penguin Group

$9.99 U.S.

Synopsis provided by Barnes and Noble:

Magpie Windwitch is not like other faeries, most of whom livein tranquil seclusion. When she learns that escaped devils are creeping back into the world, she travels all over with her faitful clan of crows, hunting them down. The hunt will take her to the great forest of Dreadmark, where she must unravel the mysteryof the worst enemy her folk have ever known. Can on small, determined faerie defeat the forces that threaten to unmake the world?

Why:

Lainin Taylor is an Oregon author so I felt like I should check out her books. I think that this book looks interesting. The faeries seem darker than those that we normally hear about. I am also excited to read about Magpie, from the synopsis I can draw that she will be a strong female character. I am exctied to read this book.

Chasing Brooklyn

This book came out just last week. but I decided to post the review for it earlier than I normally would. I love Lisa Schroeder she is such a sweet lady, I decided to get my review out earlier to hopefully encourage more of you to get this book!

Chasing Brooklyn

Lisa Schroeder

Simon and Schuster's Childrens Publising

$15.99 U.S. (Hardcover)

FTC: I purchased this book.

Synopsis from the front flap:

Restless souls and empty hearts

Brooklyn can't sleep. Her boyfriend, Lucca, died only a year ago, and now er friend Gabe has just died of an overdose. Every time she closes her eyes, Gabe's ghost is there waiting for her. She has no idea what he wants, or why it isn't Lucca visiting her dreams.

Nico can't stop. He's always running, trying to escape the pain of losing his brother, Lucca. But when Lucca's ghost begins leaving messages telling Nico to help Brooklyn, emotions come crashing to the surface.

As the nightmares escalate and the messages become relentless, Nico reachers out to Brooklyn. But neither of them can admit that they're being haunted. Until they learn to let each other in, not one soul will be able to rest.

My Thoughts: This book was fantastic. I loved the way it switched from Brooklyn to Nico throughout the story. This helped to provide a well-rounded idea of all that was going on in the story. The two main characters were very likeable. I was able to connect to Brooklyn and Nico like they were friends not just characters. I loved the plot of the book, and how it escalated thrughout the entire thing. There were frightening times as well as sweet times, and the contrast kept me glued. I read this book in two sittings and the only reason I stopped was because I had to go to work. The book engrosses you, and suddenly you are in a world that is not your own. I loved this book. Lisa did an amazing job of incorporating her first novel I Heart You, You Haunt Me into Chasing Brooklyn. While it was subtle it played a very important part to the book.

Recommendation: Everyone!!!!

Grade: A

Age: 14 and up

Quotes: Something bout verse books makes it super hard to choose just one quote so I will share a few...

"And Brooklyn, don't worry. I'll wait for you at the finish line." -Nico

"Love is the answer. Not fear."-Lucca

Gossip Girl Part 2

So today I am going to tka ethe lea and compare the gossip girl characters from the books to those from the show. I am only going to mention the main characters.



Serena: I like book Serena more than I do t.v. show Serena. In the books she is light hearted and fun, but also very ditzy. Recently in the show Serena has proven to just be plain stupid. Running off eith married men, choosing said married man over Nate, dating Gabrielle, being a ho... and so on. In the book her character seems much more genuine and maybe just naive, in the show she just is plain dumb.
Dan: I like t.v. Dan the best. He makes me laugh, and while he does make mistakes, he is usually the all around good guy. In the book I picture Dan as always moody and brooding. He also seems much more creepy at times. While I can tell he is passionate I also have a hard time with the way he displays that. I think he is able to grow more in the show and move away from his starving artist book character. The fact that he and Nate are friends in the show is probably one of the best things ever for both characters.

Blair: Oh man I love Blair, on the show in the book, she is by far my favorite. In the show we see a much more manipulative and mean side to Blair, but you just have to love her, because underneath it all she is sweet and genuine. She is the type of friend I would want on my side. In the book we see Blair as the leader and sometimes bitchym but she is also sweet and at sometimes naive. She loves Nate in both, butin the show she has moved to Chuck. This by far is my favorite part of Gossip Girl this season. I love how they interact together and who she is with him.
Chuck: Oh goodness, what to say about Chuck. I love t.v. show Chuck. In the books he is much more of a background characetr he only appears when there are large events. In the book he is also questionably gay, but so far no one knows. For these reasons I love Chuck on the show. He is such a cocky ass that you just have to love him. Throughout the show he has consistently been the only honest characetr who never tried to be someone else. I love him and Blair together. They are my favorite part of season 3. I also love his Bromance with Nate. He is a good friend as well as a good boyfriend. He is Chuck Bass, you just have to love him.
Nate: Nate Nate Nate, what can I say about Nate. In the books he is a pot smoker which is so not cool. He also dates Georgina who is crazy, which again is not cool. However in the book I just finished he has realized again that he loves Blair which is a plus. I think the character of Nate is sweet, and well he is just plain adorable. He reminds me of a dog in both, and you just have to love him. In the show he is not the one doing drugs, but his father. I think this made me like Nate a little bit more. In the show he has finally acknowledged his love for Serena which is just plain adorable. He is a good guy and while I love his bromance with Chuck, I like his newer friendship with Dan too. In the show I love his man-bangs, they are a highlight of my week. The fact that Chace Crawford plays him is a big bonus in my book!
Vanessa: Vanessa in the book, is much more confident with who she is. She knows what she likes, and she is unwilling to change that. In the show she is a liitle different. She does not have a shaved head, which in my opinion is a bonus, but she also has tended to be included in the drama. I think in the show she plays a much bigger role, because she adds a distinct element to the group. I love her and Dan together, and I hope that in both the show and the book they can work it out. Her main fault in the show is allowing the other girls to get to her and then trying to take them down, Blair Waldorf style.
Jenny: I think besides Chuck Jenny is one of the characters that is completely different in the show than she is in the book. In the book she is a lowly freshman with curly brown hair and huge boobs. She also is a more of a social outcast, and spends her time painting not making clothes. She is a sweet innocent girl, and she just wants to have friends and fit in. In the show she is much much different. On the outside she is a blonde thin girl (This season I think she often looks strung out), who enjoys fashion . She also goes to much more extreme measures to be popular. SHe is currently Queen at Constance, and aan overall Bitch in my opinion. She has gone from the sweet innocent girl to a caniving back stabber worse than Blair. She has also recently turned to dealing drugs. In seasons 1 I loved her in the show, but now I much prefer book Jenny.

Rufus: I think Rufus is a key character in both the show and the book. In the book he works with poets, while in the show he is musician. While he is not quite as present in the books, when he is we see that he loves the kids even if he is a little crazy. For the show they spruced him up a bit and hired Matthew Settle to be the "hott" dad. WHile he has his fair share of drama the feelings are still the same, he loves his children.
Eric: I would choose Eric from the show as my favorite. He is just so adorable. In the book he is the older brother, but I think that having him younger in the show works well. I love that they made him gay it makes the character much more dynamic and likeable. I loved when him and Jenny were friends, but now they are enemies I am not quite sure how I feel. In the book I just finished he almost had sex with Blair which was a little awkward, but like I said I love Eric in the show.

Lily: Lily is not really present in the book. I like that they have added her to the show and linked her romantically with Rufus. It adds for more drama, and new twists along the way. I think that her addition to the cast was genius.

Because I'm Worth It

Because I'm Worth It

Cecily von Ziegesar

Little Brown Books for Young Readers

$8.99 U.S.

FTC: I purchased this book, it was not sent by a publisher.

Synopsis from the back of the book:

it's February and most cities are a cold, gray wasteland. But not New York. At least, not my New York. Our college applications are in and it's time to blow off some steam. Best of all, Fashion Week is jusr around the corner, giving us plenty of opportunities to get dressed up and go completely wild. And just think: The later you stay out, the quicker the days will blur bu. See you out there!

You know you love me,

gossip girl

My Thoughts:

If you know me you know that I will have loved this book, because well it is Gossip Girl and therefore amazing! I really enjoyed the plot of this book. It had a more edgy vibe as you read, and in true gossip girl fashion it had scandal. That made for a much more interesting twist in certain sections. In this book we see a much more vulnerable side to Blair. I loved getting to view her characters in a different light and it also created some sympathy for her in my mind. We are also able to see the true colors of the Humphrey siblings. I think this book had enough going on to keep my mind from wandering. I loved the changes that the characetrs experienced. Face it a book with adultery, cheating, fashion shows, and love in rehab is always good.

Recommendations: Anyone who wants a good juicy read.

Grade: A

Age: 15 and up

Quote: She might have loved him, but she was having a kick-ass time without him.

Very LeFreak

Very LeFreak

Rachel Cohn

Random House Children's Books

$16.99 U.S. (Hardcover)

320 Pages

Release Date: TODAY!

FTC: I am not receving any compensation for promoting this book

Synopsis by Barnes and Noble:

Very LeFreak has a problem: she's a crazed technology addict. Very can't get enough of her iPhone, laptop, IMs, text messages, whatever. If there is any chance the incoming message, call, text, or photo might be from her supersecret online crush, she's going to answer, no matter what. Nothing is too important: sleep, friends, in mid-conversation, class, a meeting with the dean about academic probation. Soon enough, though, thisobsession costs Very everything and everyone. Can she learn to block out the noise so she can finally learn to hear her heart?

Why:

I think that this book looks very real. The extreme use of technology is something we can all relate to. I think that we all have forgotten the real world at times and gotten caught up in our cell phones, and computers. I am excited for this book and cannot wait to read it.

Knocked out by my Nunga-Nungas

Knocked Out by My Nunga-Nungas

Louise Rennison

HarperCollins Publishers

$8.99 U.S.

FTC: I purchased this book, I did not receive it from a publisher.

Synopsis from the back of the book:

Georgia Nicolson is now the girlfriend of the Sex God (aka Robbie), and things are now wonderful. Except her loony parents are dragging her off to Och Aye land (aka Scotland), and the Sex God's band's chance at a record contract has left her something of a "pop widow."

The up rears temptation in the form of old flame Dave the Laugh. Is Georgia about to become a shameless vixen?

My Thoughts:

I am a huge fan of the Georgia Nicolson series. I find myself laughing out loud as I read them quite often. The books are light hearted and just plain fun to read. They also are a laugh. In tyhe third book of this series Georgia's love for the Sex God is tried as she is carted off to Scotland with her loony family. I think we begin to see more of Georgia's personality in this book. She begins to exprience rough situations and a connection to Dave the Laugh that could ruin everything with the Sex God. I love the characters. They all interact in a way that lacks words, but mostly consists of me laughing. I enjoyed going on another fun escapade with Georgia in this novel. I think another big plus to this book is the fact that it is British humor. It is very different but also quite entertaining. There is also a dictionary in the back which about makes me die when I look at it.

My Recommendations: Anyone in for a laugh

Grade: A

Age: 13 and up

Quotes: Then I told her about the Jock McThick fandango. She said, "Erlack a pongoes. Did you encourage him? Maybe you gave out the wrong signals." -Jas

"Jas, I was not in the nuddy-pants."-Georgia

Academy 7

So deciding to do this was a lot easier said than done so I had to come up with a startegy and guidelines. I am going to choose these books from the teen section on borders.com, I will choose books that I have not heard a whole lot about, and then I will find the synopsis on Barnes and Noble (they tend to have more information)

Academy 7

Anne Osterlund

Penguin Group

$8.99 U.S.

FTC: I chose this book on my own and am receiving no compensation for promoting it.

Synopsis by Barnes and Noble:

With a past too terrible to speak of, and a bleak, lonely future ahead of her, Aerin Renning is shocked to find she has earned a place at the most exclusive school in the universe. Aerin excels at Academy 7 in all but debate, where Dane Madousin—son of one of the most powerful men in the Alliance— consistently outtalks her. Fortunately Aerin consistently outwits him at sparring. They are at the top of their class until Dane jeopardizes everything and Aerin is unintentionally dragged down with him. When the pair is given a joint punishment, an unexpected friendship—and romance—begins to form. But Dane and Aerin both harbor dangerous secrets, and the two are linked in ways neither of them could ever have imagined. . . .

Why:

I think this book looks intriguing. I also had never heard of it, even though it came out in 2009. I think this added an air of mystery to it. Aerin sounds like a strong female character that I would like to read about. This book sounds like something that would also be very different from the things I have been reading recently. I think that I will now be on the look out for it.

Shadowland

Shadowland

Alyson Noel

St. Martin Griffin

$17.99 U.S. (Hardcover)

FTC: I purchased this book myself. I did not receive it from a publisher.

Synopsis from the book:

Ever and Dame have traveled through countless past lives -- and fought off the world's darkest enemies -- so they could be together forever. But just when theor long-awaited destiny is finally within reach, a powerful curse falls upon Damen. . . one that could destroy everything. Now a single touch of their hands or a soft brush of their lips could mean sudden death -- plunging Damen into the Shadowland. Desperate to break the curse and save Damen, Ever immerses herself in magick -- and gets help from an unexpected source -- a surfer named Jude.

Although she and Jude have only just met, he feels startlingly familiar. Despite her fierce loyalty to Damen, Ever is drawn to Jude, a green-eyed golden boy with magical talents and a mysterious past. She's always believed Damen to be her soul mate and ine true love -- and she still believes it to be true. But as Damen pulls away to save them, Ever's connection with Jude grows stronger -- and tests her love for Damen like never before. . .

My Thoughts:

I had long been awaiting this book, so when I heard it came out earlier then I expected I raced to Borders to purchase it. I expected to sit down and read it all in one day, to my surprise I was unable to. After the much awaited release of Shadowland I have to admit that I was disappointed. I loved Evermore and thought Blue Moon was pretty good but not my favorite so I expected another great book. In Shadowland Ever has become even more whiney than before. No that Damen and her cannot touch eachother they have become more agitated. I also found that in this novel Damen has also become much more annoying. His melancholy mood, and extreme jealous hide the loveable character I used to know. While the characters are supposed to be acting more grown up in this book they act childish. I did like the addition of Jude to the characters but he has caused more harm than good. I did enjoy the plot, but I still found myself questioning how they got into such a mess. I do plan on continuing the series but I am no longer as excited as I used to be.

Recommendations: Anyhone who liked Evermore enough to put with whiney characters.

Age:14 and up

Grade: B -

Gossip Girl

For my first comparison of books to shows I decided to do gossip girl. I think for this show I will do two separate posts. This week I plan on talking about plot as well as setting, and so on next week I will take on the challenge of comparing characters.

vs.

The first gissip girl book was written in 2002 by Cecily von Ziegesar. The most recent book came out last November and the group has officialy made it to college. There are 13 books out, one that is a prequel. I have read the first 5 books so far. In the gossip girl books the characters act differently than on the television screen. Many of the chracters smoke on a regular basis, some cigarettes others marijuana. While the plot is still in New York many of the key places are different. There are two separate schools Constance Billiards for girls as well as St. Judes for boys. Gossip Girl does not seem quite as menacing in the book. She posts sitings and talks about the goings on but she does not seem to be out to ruin people. She also takes fan mail. The teens also attend functions with their parents quite often.

Gossip Girl the series first aired in 2007. You can now catch it on the CW Monday nights at 9:00 p.m. The show is on its third season and the cast has moved on to college. In high school they were all together instead of in two separate schools. You would not find them smoking on the street corner, but you could easily find them in a fancy club sipping martinis. Now that they are in college the charaters live in Dorms, apartments, and pent houses. There is much more drama on the t.v. show. The characters temd to get into much more trouble, and find themselves relying on eachother to bail them out. On the show Gossip Girl is menacing. She sends out posts to try and turn people on eachother, and she often succeeds. I think that there is also more sex in the television show even though the book is not far behind.


I began watching the show before I read the books, so I like it more. I also think that I like the way the characters are formed in the show. Being able to see them interact is much more interesting. The general principles of the book are showm in the show but much more of it takes place in New York, where in the books they often are on vacation. Next week I will talk abouyt characters which will be much easier!

TTFN

TTFN

Lauren Myracle

Harry N. Abrams Inc.

$6.95 U.S.

FTC: I borrowed this book from my friend, she did not receive it from a publisher.

Synopsis by Barnes and Noble:

Told entirely in instant messages, this sequel to the hugely popular ttyl follows Maddie, Zoe, and Angela through the new flirtations, fixations, and frustrations of eleventh grade. Angela has just found out that her family is moving to El Cerrito, California, and she seriously doesn't know how she'll survive without her best friends. Maddie makes some really bad moves with Clive, a pot-smoking hipster who wants to be "friends with benefits." And Zoe finds herself falling for Doug, the sweet poet who has had a crush on Angela forever - a crush that Angela has come to count on.

My Thoughts:

Awesome!!! This book was fun. Lauren Myracle does an amazing job of capturing the essence of the teen life. This book was a fun quick read that I could barely put down. Since the first book the girls have grown as individuals and this book shows that. I liked that the girls experienced more in depth issues in this book, and that we were able to see that they grew up. I found the plot to be intriguing as well as realistic. I think that the topics adressed were realistic to all teenagers. I enjoy the way that the girl react with eachother and even though they argue end up friends in the end. I loved this book.

Recommendation: High school girls

Grade: A+

Age: 15 and up

Quote: "1 said 'sticks and stones will break my bones, but whips and chanis excite me,' and another said 'i'd rather be spanjed.' also included were 'ass pirate,' 'i heart llamas,' and, my personal fave, 'jesus loves you, but i'm his favorite.'" ~Zoe to Angela

Chasing Brooklyn

For my first edition of "New Today!!!" I am very excited to talk about Chasing Brooklyn

Chasing Brooklyn by Lisa Schroeder

Simon and Schuster

$15.99 U.S. (Hardcover)

432 pages

Released: Today!!!!

FTC: I am doing this of my own free will and am not being compensated or asked to do this.

Lisa Schroeder is an amazing author as well as an amazing person. She is very kind and just plain fun to be around. Her writing provides the same type of vibe. Her first book I Heart You, You Haunt Me was ana amazing success. Her style of writing is easy to read but also very intriguing. I am very excited for Chasing Brooklyn to come out. I expect great things from it. I am also excited to be able to take part in a signing for this book tonight. For anyone in the Oregon/Washington area Lisa will be signing her book at Barnes and Noble at Clakamas town center tonight. I plan on getting there early so I can try and read it all before hand. I would reccomend picking up a copy of this book, because I know it will be worth it.

Synopsis by Barnes and Noble:

Restless souls and empty hearts
Brooklyn can't sleep. Her boyfriend, Lucca, died only a year ago, and now her friend Gabe has just died of an overdose. Every time she closes her eyes, Gabe's ghost is there waiting for her. She has no idea what he wants or why it isn't Lucca visiting her dreams.
Nico can't stop. He's always running, trying to escape the pain of losing his brother, Lucca. But when Lucca's ghost begins leaving messages, telling Nico to help Brooklyn, emotions come crashing to the surface.
As the nightmares escalate and the messages become relentless, Nico reaches out to Brooklyn. But neither of them can admit that they're being haunted. Until they learn to let each other in, not one soul will be able to rest.

Viola In Reel Life

For my first review for the new year and my new blog I am going to review Viola In Reel Life!!!

Viola In Reel Life

Adriana Trgiani

Harper Teen

$16.99 U.S. (Hardcover)

FTC: I borrowed this boook from my friend who recevied it from a publisher. I promise to give an honest review and will not be receving compensation.

Synopsis by Barnes and Noble:

I'm marooned.
Abandoned.
Left to rot in boarding school . . .
Viola doesn't want to go to boarding school, but somehow she ends up at an all-girls school in South Bend, Indiana, far, far away from her home in Brooklyn, New York. Now Viola is stuck for a whole year in the sherbet-colored sweater capital of the world.
Ick.
There's no way Viola's going to survive the year—especially since she has to replace her best friend Andrew with three new roommates who, disturbingly, actually seem to like it there. She resorts to viewing the world (and hiding) behind the lens of her video camera.
Boarding school, though, and her roommates and even the Midwest are nothing like she thought they would be, and soon Viola realizes she may be in for the most incredible year of her life.
But first she has to put the camera down and let the world in.

My Thoughts:

I found this book to be enjoyable. It is not something that I would have picked up to read normally. I think that Viola was generally a likeable character. As a reader I was able to sympathize for her and her situation of being left at boarding school, and her quest to fit in. I think that Adriana Trigiani did a good job on creating characters who were very unique but were also relateable to the readers and to eachother. I enjoyed reading about the interactions between Viola and her roommates, they were very practical and things that anyone could experience. The plot was simple, yet well mastered and contained surprises ocassionally that made the reader want more. All in all this was a good book, but it was not typically my style.

Recommendation: Girls 13-17 it relates to the awkward stage that we all go through

Grade: A

Age: 13 and up

Quote: "I just became a full-fledged teenager with an actual life, but the world has changed." ~ Viola

The New Set-Up of My Blog

After lots and lots of consideration I have finally devised a plan which I think will help me be able to keep up with my blog! So my idea is to start off the week with a review on Sunday, then since I have classes on Monday I will take the day off. I was thinking that on Tuesdays I can begin by introducing a new book that came out that week, this may not always happen but I am determined to try it. Wednesday I will add another review for the week. Thursday I thoguht it would be fun to do a comparison of books and athe movies or t.v. shows made from them (i.e. new moon the book compared to new moon the movie). I plan on comparing overall quality as well as how the movie or show compares to the book and so on. Friday I will post another review, and to end the week I decided that for 26 weeks I will post a young adult book for each letter of the alphabet. I think that this will make me find more books that I may not have looked into before. Let me know what you guys think. I think this will allow me to keep up with my reviews, vecause I will not be able to read as much once school starts! Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and that 2010 will treat you well. Happy Reading and Happy Blogging.

Sarah