Hourglass

by Claudia Gray

I read Evernight in a matter of a week. I finished Stargazer in just a few days. I read Hourglass in less than a day. I couldn't put it down. Vampires, boyfriends, friends, drama, adventure. You name it, it's in here!

I'm excited for the next book to come out....!

****

Stargazer

by Claudia Gray

I tend to get slightly obsessed when I find a book completely engaging. Having said that, I finished this book in 1 1/2 days...I couldn't put it down!! It was great! There is some language and a few moments of sexual tension, but nothing explicit. It's got vampires, ghosts, romance, meddling parents and more.

This woman is a great writer!

****

Evernight

by Claudia Gray

Great book about a vampire school, and evolving vampire student and a non-vampire student. First book in a series of 3...excited to read the next one.

A few swear words, but still a good read.

****

The 13th Reality: The Journal of Curious Letters

by James Dashner

I think I might have found a new series to read. This was a simple fantasy that kept my attention the entire time! Great plot twists and turns. Alternate realities - who'd have thunk! Atticus Higginbottom is a typical smart-kid who struggles fitting in with peers, but has an affinity for trivia and puzzles. Many kids can probably relate to him...and he realizes his potential through unlikely means. I really liked it! Great for boys or girls, kids and adults.

Enjoyable and fun...great read-aloud for younger kids, too.

****

The Book Thief

by Markus Zusak

I actually have decided that, generally, I'm not interested in or cut out for adult reading. I have been trying for about 50 pages to get into this book...not happening. So, I guess I'm going back to fewer words and more shallow thoughts. I'm okay with that.

The Outlander

by Gil Adamson

I had a hard time trying to figure out where this story was going. Once I got about 3/4 of the way through I could start to see a little light at the end of the tunnel. It was a little intense at times, but seemed to be so detailed in others that I was a little bored. This is an Adult book - language and explicit details (few of either, but there, nonetheless). I finished this book about 4 days ago and still haven't decided how I feel about it. I really liked the historical aspect of the story, but I can't say I...I don't know. I like to read to be entertained; this is not what I consider an entertaining book. But I didn't dislike it either. I'm just torn. It was well-written; it had a great plot and twists; it flowed well. Hmmm...you'll have to read it yourself to decide.

***

p.s. 3 or 4 F-words in case that sways you one way or the other.

Chains

by Laurie Halse Anderson

I really enjoyed the perspective of the American Revoluton from a young slave girl. It brought many new insights to light...not all Northerners were against slavery...huh. It was a quick read, but very interesting and really kept me going. There's a sequel, too.

****

Mockingjay

by Suzanne Collins

The third in the series, this book seems to be the most violent. In keeping true to form, characters who you just start to connect with find a way to their demise. I had to keep reading just to know what happened with Katniss, Peeta and Gale. I can't say I'm surprised at the ending, but I was (a little). I have enjoyed the entire series and would recommend it to mature young adults who are able to differentiate between real and pretend - this series pushes that ability. This book seemed a little graphic in the violence than that others (unless I just read them so fast I overlooked the gore).

Overall, I liked it!

****

p.s. I shelved Treasure Island. Too slow.

hmmm....what to read next? Help me?

I've gotten rather lazy in my reading. I don't have enough interest in a book to go get it from the library; however, I have read and re-read the books I own.

I think I'll have a go at "Treasure Island" by Robert Louis Stevenson. I read this for the first time about 3 or 4 years ago. I had fallen in love with pirates (after Pirates of the Carribean, duh) and found this to be a super-awesome book.

So, I started it about a week ago and I'm not very far...it's a little so to start, but I haven't been very focused, either (other stuff to do)....I'll keep you posted!

Extras

by Scott Westerfeld

Fourth book in the trilogy (?). liked the idea of an add-on; like the point-of-view. Forgot how the twists were so crazy. Still liked it!

Specials

by Scott Westerfeld

The last in the trilogy...love it, mostly. I don't like the ending...ugh. Everything else is great!

Pretties

by Scott Westerfeld

Read it, loved it. Read it again, loved it again!

Uglies

by Scott Westerfeld

Impressive. Young girl excited to become "Pretty" on her 16th birthday finds out about another option...plot twists, unexpected turns, great story! Futuristic earth, makes the reader a little more aware of our wasteful society. Great for a 12+age reader.

****

Your Heart Belongs to Me

by Dean Koontz


I can't remember the last time I read a book by Dean Koontz...jr. high, maybe? But, I found this one for less than $1 at the library, so I thought I'd give it a go. Ya know, I was expecting graphic love scenes, gore, and murder with explicit details. I got a story of intrigue, suspense, and love...nothing graphic :)

I had forgotten how much I enjoyed a good clean murder mystery (minus the actual murder). I would recommend you try this book if you need a story that will keep your interest and you can share with your 12+ children. Great book! (a few omg's, but I don't recall any other strong language)


****

Water for Elephants

by Sara Gruen

I just really excited to read this book. I had heard how good it was. I really enjoyed the story of a man torn between his younger self and the present aged man. I liked how the author was able to make him real and keep me interested in both his life as a young man and his current struggles as a 90-something man. The story brought to life the reality of the Depression of the 1930's. It also gave great insight to circus life during that time (and now).

I thought the story was great! I did NOT however think the language was necessary (f-words dotted throughout). There was a couple of explicit chapters that could have been less graphic. Overall, great story, adults content.

***
I can't recommend it to anyone who finds graphic sexual scenes and f-words offensive.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

by J. K. Rowling

Wow...! I had the Hardest time putting this one down! I have always thought H.P. to be for kids...it is, but it's not. There's no many different layers. Kids will enjoy reading it, but might get a little scared if they're young. I found profound lessons for life as I read...

Definitely a must-read!!

*****

I'm going to take a break for a little while...need to catch up on a few projects before diving back into a book.

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

by J. K. Rowling

Harry is now in his sixth year at Hogwarts. He knows he can trust his friends and he wants to get on with life.

He has endured hardship, sorrow, joy, and peace...he again visits those feelings this year. He has resolved to fight darkness and his friends are by his side!

GREAT!!

*****

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

by J. K. Rowling

I actually finished this book a couple of weeks ago, but I forgot to post it. So, here goes.

I love how each book in the series adds another dimension to the entire story. This time the author adds adult influence in it's finest form. Harry finally has adults to look to as role models, to answer questions, and to guide him.

LOVE IT!!

*****

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

by J. K. Rowling

Harry is getting so grown up. He crushes on girls, fights dragons and fights Voldemort! What a guy!
So sad that a character goes away, but one more exciting installment in the Harry Potter saga!!

*****

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkhaban

by J. K. Rowling

I can't believe I'm already done with the third book. These three have been relatively short compared to the four that follow. I love how another key character is introduced and become an integral part of the story. I also love how in each year at Hogwarts, Harry learns something specific that is used against Voldemort that year. I am getting more and more hooked (again) as I continue reading this series. This book has a couple of swear words (farm language), but nothing I haven't said in conversation or at exasperated moments with my children (Damn, Hell)...anyway. Good book, sad to see it end. Excited for Harry's fourth year at Hogwarts!

*****

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

by J. K. Rowling

It is so fun to read this series again. Harry's power is increasing and the Hogwarts' classes are learning so much! I love how Harry and his friends find ways to solve problems and how the everyday troubles are so relatable. They seem to have the same kinds of problems other kids have - "does he like me?", "should we do homework or play?", "how do I tell an adult what happened?" Loveit! Loveit! Loveit!

*****

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

by J.K. Rowling

I had completely forgotten how this series started. It's been at least 5 years since I last read this book. I love how it keeps my interest, but isn't so intense I have to re-read each page to understand what's going on. In fact, I could read while talking to Luke while he was playing outside!

I love how real Harry is - he is just a normal kid who is doing the best he can with what he has. When I finds out he's a wizard, his character doesn't really change, he just improves himself even more.

Great book (series) for kids who need a little confidence boost!

*****

Breaking Dawn

by Stephenie Meyer

I know. I know. Shocker. Not my favorite of the collections, but it does resolve in the end. Still a must-read!

****

Eclipse

by Stephenie Meyer

almost finished it before I went to the opening...instead, I finished it 18 hours later.

Third time through...still enjoyable!

****

New Moon

by Stephenie Meyer

yep, third time's a charm!

****

Twilight

by Stephenie Meyer

Third time. :) Need I say more?

****

The Host

by Stephenie Meyer

I needed to find a book that I knew I would enjoy; a familiar story that hadn't become monotonous. So, I started the Host again last week. We drove to Las Vegas and back over the weekend, so I had plenty of time to read (between starting videos and handing drinks and snacks to the back seat). Anyway, I really enjoy Meyer's writing.
A human is one of a handful left after alien invasion. She is taken over, but hasn't lost herself...her story of living is such a tale of being a strong spirit. I love the details and tidbits that make this story complete. It is, understandably, not a quick read; but captivating, nonetheless.
This book is one of a very few adult books that I have read more than once and will likely read again.

Although it is science fiction, it doesn't seem so far-fetched and unlikely that I have to learn a completely knew vocabulary. I LOVE this book!!

*****
clean and safe for teen +

Alice in Wonderland

by Lewis Carroll

I had never read this book. Being inspired by the new movie that came out, I thought I'd give it a go. But, I also knew that if I started it and was totally confused because of the proper English, (as opposed to common everyday talk), I'd put it down and never pick it back up. Also, I just started reading The Host by Stephanie Meyer, so I didn't want to have to books going - that's overwhelming to me. So......I bought the audiobook for my iPod and listened while I exercised.

Christopher Plummer (dad from The Sound of Music) narrates...WOW! I almost turned it off during the first 5 minutes. But after that, I. was. hooked.

Fantastic tale of imaginary creatures, words, and experiences. Much Much MUCH better than either movie, but it helped the movies make more sense.

LOVED IT!! Definitely a musts-read (or listen). I loved the character voices on the audiobook. They helped me keep track of what was going on.

*****
Truly a classic.
And, YES, I do believe Mr. Carroll may have ingested some hallucinogenic "medication" previous to scripting this tale.

I'm re-reading...

I decided that I was a little overwhelmed with books I knew nothing about. To alleviate this, I decided to re-read The Host by Stephenie Meyer. It's a grown-up book without all the grown-up content. I'm only a few chapters in and I'm not in a huge hurry to finish, so I'll see you when I'm done.

M
p.s. I'm listening to Alice in Wonderland on my iPod...Christopher Plummer narrates - Amazing!!

A Reliable Wife

by Robert Goolrick

I found myself fascinated and repulsed at the same time. The entire book is very Freudian. Sex is not merely an underlying piece, but rather, the reason the story exists. It is somewhat explicit (18+) and at times almost offensive. Yet without the details, it would read something like this: Man needs wife. Wife arrives. She travels. He doesn't. She returns. They live.
I'm not sure how I feel about this book. A man requests a wife. A woman answers his ad. There are details and back-stories that open as the story moves, but it was all very...adult.

I guess I enjoy stories that have less adult-content and are written for a younger audience. If you enjoy a story strictly for adults - language, story line, content - then you'll probably enjoy this book. However, it wasn't for me.

*** adult book (not really my thing)

The Sweet Far Thing

by Libba Bray

I finished this book in near-record time. The story picks up where the second books left off...and I got right back into it, too. I love the intrigue and excitement of a young girl's mind. It was fascinating to find out how the plot came to a resolution in the end. The twists and turns kept me interested and the propriety of Turn-of-the-Century England Society makes it that much more fun to read. I found I couldn't put the book down. In fact, I read from 9 to 12 today (yes, we didn't get out of jammies until too late) just so I could finish!

****
There are a few pages of teenage hearts and hands (if you know what I mean), but most of it was implied.
A few minor (if there is such thing) swear words, but nothing you don't hear at the mall (probably not as bad as the mall, actually)

Book Club? anyone....(chirp chirp)...

I think I might be ready to be part of a book club. Something small, 5-6 people. And not SO serious it's not fun, but serious enough to finish the book and discuss a little. I'm not one to analyze this and that in a book, but it might be interesting to get another insight into the story - maybe something I hadn't thought of.

If you are interested, please leave a comment and I'll see what comes of it...also, leave a title or two (or three...) you'd like to read. I'm game for most anything!!

The Heretic's Daughter

by Kathleen Kent

I started this book a couple of months ago, putting it down to read something else(?). Well, I finished it - with much satisfaction. It's based on the life of a real family in Massachuessetts in the 1690's - Salem Witch Trials. I found the story fascinating; knowing these events really happened to the people involved made it that much better. If you enjoy historical fiction and family history, this is a great book! It would be a great book for a high school-age person trying to get a better sense of the witch scare of Salem or just wanting a great book to read.

****

Jenn - thanks for the comments - I don't have either of those books, yet. I am going to begin the last of the Libba Bray Series of Society around the turn of the century England...:)

The Help

by Kathryn Stockett

I wasn't sure where this book was going, but as I kept reading I really got into it. I found that I was rationalizing why I could do dishes later and laundry could wait just so I could go read. The way the characters came to life was fabulous! It takes place in mid-1960's South. Racial tensions are intense and the United States is going through change. There is some language (no F) and adult content (naked man incident), so I wouldn't recommend for teens. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and learned a few things along the way.

**** I can't say it will be one I read again, but I'm glad I read it this time.

Not sure what I'll read next...any ideas?

Fablehaven: Keys to the Demon Prison

by Brandon Mull

YAY! I finally finished (not for lack of interest, but time). I LOVED it! Anyone who enjoys getting involved with characters and escape their own reality for someone else's needs to read this book. It is written for upper elementary/middle school-age children; however, it is spectacular for adults. Clean, safe, fantasy is often hard to find for the adult reader...here it is. This would be a great (series) to read to/with your children.

I have to give this ***** HANDS DOWN!



I'm going to tackle The Help next (unless SLCo Library system won't let me renew because of my late fee...)

Still reading...Fablehaven!

So I put away The Bonesetter's Daughter to pick up book 6 in the Fablehaven Series. I'm loving it! I (happily) am able to put it down when I need to sleep or eat or something with my children, but I can pick it up later and get right back into it. I'm almost halfway through (lots of bedtime reading). I have had a full plate the last week or so, but I'm hoping to finish before it's due back at the library!!

I'll keep you posted.

The Bonesetter's Daughter

by Amy Tan

I am only into chapter 2, but already, I'm bored. And the F-bomb has been dropped once. I'm going to shelf this one for now. Maybe I'll try again later.

*

Rebel Angels

by Libba Bray

Finally...I'm done. Although it took me for-e-ver to finish. I liked it! I put the book down at 11:30 PM and Seriously considered starting the last of the trilogy right then. Alas, I didn't.

I would say that part of the reason I enjoyed the book was the time period it takes place - turn of the century (1900), England. Electricity is just being introduced. I love the "Society"-life books of that time. If you're not into being hopeful and trying to better yourself and others, please don't read this.

I just started "The Bonesetter's Daughter" - I'll keep you posted.

***

Still Going...

I'm still reading Rebel Angels. I'm almost half-way through. I'm liking the story, but I'm not completely captivated...and I can't put down my crochet hook. Stay with me...please!

a little vent...

I've been a little pre-occupied lately; however, I'm trying to read a book I've looked forward to getting into: Rebel Angels by Libba Bray. This is the next book after A Great and Terrible Beauty. I don't know if I'm just so busy doing other things that I can't get excited about sitting down to read, or if the book itself is not as interesting....any thoughts?

Also, if you have read a good book lately, leave a comment so I can add it to my "To Read" list. I'm always on the lookout for a good book.

One more thing.
If you are like me and can't get to the library to check out a book for free, but instead sees it at Target and spends $8-12 on it, consider this: I was at the Draper Library last week picking up a couple of books I had on hold there. While there, I saw the Books for Sale shelf near the doors. As I browsed, I noticed three books that I'd been wanting to read...$1.50...for ALL THREE!!! Can't beat that if you insist on owning them. Just keep that in mind next time you spend $20 on two books you have been wanting to read. (I know it's hard to get to the library, but even once a month could save a LOT of money.)

Keep on reading...

Thirst No.2

by Christopher Pike

I read No. 1 and had to know what happened to Sita. Well, after three weeks of reading and wondering why I cared what happened next, I am finished. I think I am enjoying being done with the book more than I enjoyed the actual book. It's not that I didn't like it...it was just looooooong. It didn't really keep my attention - it was more of a project to check off my to-do list: read Thirst No. 2, Check!

If you read No. 1 and want to know how it all ends...read No. 2. If you read No. 1 and don't care how it all ends...don't bother. If you haven't read No. 1...well, check out my take on it and decide for yourself.

I'm not sure if I recommend this book or not...there is some profanity and innuendo...definitely NOT a book for teens or kids.

**

The Lovely Bones

by Alice Sebold

This is definitely a book for adults! I found it to be somewhat disturbing to begin. I was hoping for the fairy-tale ending...that's why I read juvenile and young adult books - they end happily. I was intrigued by the story and characters, but I can't say I loved it. I'm not even sure I enjoyed it, but I do feel satisfied.

This book dropped the f-bomb twice (ugh!) and had somewhat graphic descriptions of rape, murder, and implications of sex. Again - NOT FOR YOUNG ADULTS!

** - I don't recommend it to sensitive readers

Fablehaven: Secret of the Dragon Sanctuary

by Brandon Mull

Ok...this is book four of a five-book series...the BEST so far...I was totally caught off guard with this one! Definitely must read if you've read any of the others.

Kendra is quite the adventurer, as is Seth...good times!

****

I've just begun reading a book written for adults: The Lovely Bones - I'll let you know how it goes. So far, absolutely NOT a book for children!

OKAY. . .

Alright. I know you are reading this blog...but only because you've told me in person. No one has left a single comment...I was starting to think I was the only one reading it.

SSSSSOOOOOOOOOOoooooo - here's what to do:

If you have read any part of this blog, leave a comment to let me know what you think.
If you've read the book, let me know what you thought of it. If you haven't read the book, but are interested, tell me so. If you don't read, tell me that. Tell me one of your favorite books...so I can read it, too!

Thanks...keep your nose in a book and keep a book on the back of your toilet (best place to read!).

Fablehaven: Grip of the Shadow Plague

by Brandon Mull

I keep thinking somewhere along the line, I'm going to lose interest, or the book will get a little boring.
Nope! This one was darker than the previous two, but still clean and SO SO GOOD! The plot twists are fantastic. There's enough adventure to keep the story going, but also other little side stories to make you want to know what happens next. I know there are two more in the series...already started book 4...I'll keep you posted!

****

Fablehaven: Rise of the Evening Star

by Brandon Mull

After reading book one, book two made the series even more addicting. Plots twists and exciting adventure made it hard to put the book down...the end made it impossible to NOT want to read the next book! Loved it. Loved it. Loved it.

****

A Great and Terrible Beauty

by Libba Bray

I have had this book on the pile of "to-reads" since early summer. I finally got a chance to begin. It was completely different from what I was expecting. I found it a little slow to start, but by midway through the book I was enveloped. The characters are young adult girls who are still discovering love, boys, and hormones, so I would definitely read it before letting someone under 16 read it. But it IS clean. I really liked the setting of Victorian England and the idea of magic always makes it more interesting!

***

Fablehaven

by Brandon Mull

GREAT!! Adventure in our world with other-world creatures. Might be a little scary for younger children - could read aloud and edit. Can't wait to read the next one...!

****
p.s. Local author

Catching Fire

By Suzanne Collins

Seriously, couldn't put this down. 2nd book in Hunger Games Series. I'm dying to have to wait until August to find out what happens next! If you haven't read Hunger Games, you must. Then you absolutely HAVE to read Catching Fire. Then we can both be frustrated and anxious together until August!

Love the setting...could be near future (within a lifetime)?
Science fiction is believable, but still fiction.
Romance for your heart, Drama for your head, Intrigue to keep your fingers turning the pages.

****

Reincarnation

By Suzanne Weyn

Interesting story of two people meeting, knowing each other throughout different periods of history. They never quite get together, but always feel a distinct connection. Not a good read if you are questioning your testimony of who you are and where did you come from. Excellent read if you don't need reaffirmation of your own pre-existence and purpose in this life.
The connection between these two people is what kept me reading!!
Dramatic, Romantic, Interesting, CLEAN.

Percy Jackson Series

By Rick Riordan


Young boy. Greek mythology comes to life. I learned A LOT about Mythology and the Greek Gods.
Loved the entire seried. Couldn't stop reading until I had finished them all.

Must read for 6th graders!

Love the characters, plot twists, and present-day setting.

*****

The Secret Life of Bees

By Sue Monk Kidd


Takes place in 1960's South.
White girl. Black friends.
Coming of Age.
Finding Yourself.
Realistic Fiction. Historical Fiction.
Interesting story, a little slow at times, worth finishing.
A few giggles, a lot of tears, moving.

***

Hunger Games

By Suzanne Collins

I began reading with excitement. That feeling never left as I read as often as possible. I finished the book in about 4 days. Kept my interest the entire time. Love the elements of science fiction without the confusion of a setting so foreign I get lost. Simple, exciting, intriguing, fantastic! Definitely a good read!

****