Ashley's Bookshelves

Chasing Brooklyn- Lisa Schroeder

2010-02-11T17:00:00.000-08:00

Chasing Brooklyn is the first Lisa Schroeder book that I have read. It was written in verse the whole way through. I have never read a book written like that.

Brooklyn's boyfriend Lucca died in a car accident a year before and now her friend Gabe has died. Nico is Lucca's brother. Gabe starts to come to Brooklyn in her dreams and she is wondering why it is not Lucca. She starts to hang out with Nico and they start to grieve and move on by helping each other.

The book was great. It was an easy book to get through and I read it in hours.While the characters don't get that developed it was still worth reading. I will continue to read her books.

HUGE GIVEAWAYS!

2010-02-11T15:45:00.001-08:00

Over on the Teens Read and Write blog they are having a huge and I mean HUGE giveaway. Take a look. You would be crazy not to.

/-La Femme Readers-/ also has a book of choice from 2010. Contest ends Feb. 15th.

GREAT NEWS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-02-11T15:16:00.000-08:00

The third book in the Hunger Games series has been announced and shown. OMG. I love the name and the cover. How am I going to wait till August??????

What are your thoughts?

Waiting on Wednesday

2010-02-10T19:47:00.000-08:00

Waiting on Wednesday was started by Jill over at Breaking the Spine. It is a feature for bloggers to show what they can't wait to be released.

My Pick: The Six Rules of Magic-Deb Caletti

From Goodreads.com:

Scarlett Hughes is overly involved in the lives of everyone around her, and exceptionally interested in the habits of her neighbors. But Scarlett is thrust solidly into her own life when her sister, Juliet, returns home from school—pregnant and surprisingly married to a sweet, handsome man whom she seems to have no interest in, but who is hopelessly in love with her. Forced to take a look inward for the first time, Scarlett discovers the necessity of dreams, as well as the necessity of facing reality and speaking the truth.

My Take: What is better than a book sisters, family relationships and drama? Nothing!

Perfect Chemistry-Simone Elkeles

2010-02-10T18:38:00.000-08:00

This book has gotten a ton of great reviews on Goodreads.com so I decided to read it. Oh my is it worth it.

Brittney is a white rich girl who lives on the North side. Her parents are big on apperances and she has to be perfect, while behind closed doors her world is anything, but perfect. She is dating the popular jock when she is assigned to a chemistry assignment with bad boy gangster Alex. Throughout their year they learn more about each other and themselves then they ever thought would be possible. Their hate turns into love, but can they make it work.

This book was delicious. The writing, the characters, the story, everything. I just kept turning the pages and turning the pages never wanting to stop turning and it wasn't even an "action" book. I just wanted to continue to learn about Brittney and Alex and to see how their relationship would evolve. While another writer would have screwed this story up (sorry authors) Ms. Elkeles wrote with ease and perfection. She researched her gangs and love. I will have to read more of her books.

Fade-Lisa McMann

2010-02-09T15:28:00.000-08:00

Fade is the second book in the dreamcatcher series. It continues Janie and Cabe's story. I liked Wake ok, but I wasn't sure if I was going to continue the series. I decide to do it and I am so happy that I did.

Janie is on assignment again. This time she is trying to uncover a sexual predator that is a teacher in her high school. She also learns more about her gift and her relationship with Cabe.

I don't want to say to much because the book is pretty action packed. I read it in 2 sittings (hey a girl has to eat sometimes). I can't wait to read Gone now.

In My Mailbox

2010-02-07T09:53:00.000-08:00

In my mailbox was started by The Story Siren as a way for bloggers to show of what books they have received.

I was apart of a book exchange on a message board I frequent and I got spoiled. I got the first 3 Vampire Academy books in a box set and City of Bones. I can't wait to dig in. Thanks

Shiver- Maggie Stiefvater

2010-02-07T09:49:00.000-08:00

I have been hearing about this book on the Nest Book Club and so I decided to finally read it. When I got it from the library I decided to dig right in and I don't think I came up for air.

Grace was attacked by wolves as a child. There was one that stood out to her as he saved her. She remembered his eyes and often for years to come watched for him and fed him. She was obsessed with her wolf. Then one day she finds him as a human and it is Sam. The live through months of them finally being able to be together and trying to keep Sam warm enough that he doesn't change. We learn about Wolves and how their lives work. All the while they are hoping for a cure.

This book is all that Twilight could have been. Ms. Stiefvater gives her love intrest a history even if it may seem a bit creepy. They didn't just meet one day and love each other. They have loved each other from a far for 6 years. Plus Grace was tough, independent, and while she knew that she loved Sam and didn't want to be without him she took on his life in a tough way. I loved the end and can't wait for Linger.

All Unquiet Things-Anna Jarzab

2010-02-07T09:42:00.000-08:00

This book was a different kind of Young Adult. It was actually a murder mystery.

Carly and Neily were in love until she left him for Adam. Audrey is Carly's cousin who brought Carly into the in crowds world. Then one day almost a year after dumping him Carly calls Neily but he doesn't answer. When he listens to his message he wished he had. He goes to look for her and finds her murdered. Audrey's dad is found guilty and goes to jail. Later Audrey and Neily have thoughts of their own on his guiltiness and decide to investigate her murder. What they find makes their heads spin.

I liked this book because I liked Audrey and Neily. The other characters were ok, but Audrey and Neily made the book. I loved how it went between them and we got to see both their points of views and how the viewed the same person. I was happy with the ending because I didn't see it coming.

Boys, Girls, and other Hazordous Materials-Rosalind Wiseman

2010-02-07T09:35:00.000-08:00

I found this book while searching books coming out in 2010 on http://www.goodreads.com/. It sounded interesting so I requested it from the library. I am glad I did.

Charlie is starting 9th grade in a new school. She left the other school because of some mean girls she thought was her friends. She is hoping to start over and make new friends so imagine her surprise when her old neighbor who had moved away and she hadn't talked to was standing in the gym during orientation. He is hot and a jock now. Charlie finds her friends and they go on through the year. She is a writer for the paper and her guy friends are doing weird things and she has heard about hazing rituals so she decides to investigate. She may not like what she finds out.

A big reason why I think I really enjoyed this book was because it was about 9th graders and not the typical senior so they dealt with starting high school, dates, and fitting in. It was a bit refreshing. Plus the cast was great I really liked them all and want to see more. I would like Ms. Wiseman to write a sequel or something with this group I think there was so much more to go on.

Some Girls Are-Courtney Summers

2010-02-07T09:24:00.000-08:00

Some Girls Are gave me a new meaning to Mean Girls. I loved Cracked Up To Be and how Courtney Summers writes real girls and situations. This book as sad as it may be is true. There are girls out there who are just like this in our schools.

Regina was in the in crowd. She was mean and did horrible things to girls that were not in her crowd. Then one day after a misunderstanding where she was accused of doing things with her best friend's boyfriend she was suddenly the outsider who was getting awful things done to her. She then had to find friends and support amongst the people she had once shunned. She finds help in one boy Michael and she learns just how much she hurt people in the past and looks for ways to make it up to them.

Regina was a great character. She was strong yet scared, she had an attitude yet she was kind, and she fought to the end and I loved every minute of it. Even the mean girls who I hated so much were obviously written beautifully or I wouldn't have cared enough to hate them. I give this book a big A.

Wake-Lisa McMann

2010-02-05T15:16:00.000-08:00

This is my first Lisa McMann book. It was a quick read that I found interesting from the start. I have never read something about someone who can go into other people's dreams before so in this day and age where everyone is trying to write about the same thing it was refreshing.

Janie has a gift or a curse depending on how you look at it. She can go into people's dreams. She and the boy next door find themselves in each other's dreams and use it to help the police on an investigation.

It was a great book. The writing is not "brillant" but it is good enough to pull you in right away and to keep you interested. I have Fade to read also.

My Poor Neglected Blog :(

2010-02-05T15:07:00.001-08:00

I have been so busy lately. I have read some great books, but I can't get online at work anymore (and shhh don't tell, but that is where I did a lot of my blogging) and by the time I get home and do what I need to do it is late and I am tired. I have no plans this weekend so far so I hope to bring you lots of updates!

In My Mailbox (2)

2010-01-23T19:31:00.000-08:00

In My Mailbox was started by The Story Siren and inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie.

I don't normally get books and haven't been online in a while (My work now has software so I can only get on at home) so imagine my surprise when I opened my mailbox to find this:

Some Girls Are by Courtney Summers. I cannot wait to read it. I have been waiting on it to come out and my library has not even ordered a copy and I have stopped by the bookstore a few times and they didn't have it.

Tangled-Caroyln Mackler

2010-01-17T18:48:00.000-08:00

I have read a few of Carolyn Mackler's other books and really liked how she wrote. When I found out that she had a new one coming out I was excited and put myself on the waiting list at the library. I was finally able to read it this weekend.

There are 4 teens that end up in Paradise together and become connected. Jena, Dakota, Skye, and Owen. The book is broken into 4 parts, one for each teen. Jena is a bigger girl that is shy around boys, Skye is the actress and Jena's sometimes friend (Their mothers are friends). Dakota and Owen are brothers. Dakota is a playboy and Owen is a blogger that doesn't know how to be social.They all learn about themselves. They start in Paradise and then their lives continue.

I like Carolyn Mackler and her writing. This book just didn't do it for me. It was quick and easy, but I felt that I didn't get to really know the characters since they only had one part each. Sure they showed up in others but it wasn't the same. What I did get to know about the characters I loved and wished that she had taken it further. I will continue to read her books though.

Dear John Trailer

2010-01-16T18:48:00.001-08:00

I am not sure how the movie will go, but I really like the cast so I may still see it. I hope you enjoy it.

Dear John-Nicholas Sparks

2010-01-16T18:45:00.000-08:00

I am slowly working my way through Nicholas Sparks' books. When I started seeing the trailers for this movie I realized that I needed to read this book. One because it looked good and two in case I decide to go see the movie when it comes out.

John is in the Army and he goes home on leave one Summer. While home on leave he meets Savannah who is also there for a month. During the two weeks that they had together they taught each other about themselves and they planned to stay together even with John in Germany and Savannah in North Carolina. Then September 11th happened and they were not expecting that or what comes next.

I really enjoyed this book like I enjoy all his other books. I love good written love stories, love stories that could be real. Savannah and John were a great couple and I felt their pain, love, and happiness while reading this book. Nicholas Sparks can write great characters with a lot of depth and I enjoy them each time.

Not My Daughter- Barbara Delinsky

2010-01-15T13:40:00.000-08:00

This was my first experience with Barbara Delinsky.Quite honestly a non-Ya book in a while aslo. It was good and I am glad I read it.

Susan is the principal of a local high school in a really small town. She is also the mother of a high school senior that made a pact with 2 other friends to get pregnant. The book follows the 3 girls and their life while pregnant and also Susan and the other mothers as they cope with the news.

I really enjoyed the characters in this book. The writing was almost in the middle of Marian Keyes and Jodi Picoult, 2 authors I enjoy a lot. I say read it!

Another great contest

2010-01-14T13:03:00.000-08:00

Mrs. Messi over at Mrs. Messi's Musings is having a great giveaway: $10 starbucks giftcard, $10barnes and noble gift card, or $10.00 Babys R Us gift Card.

Waiting on Wednesday

2010-01-14T05:43:00.000-08:00

Yes I know it is Thursday. I had a busy day yesterday!

Waiting on Wednesday wan introduced to me by Jessica over at Reading is Sexy. It is a feature for bloggers to swoon over upcoming releases they can't wait to get their hands on.

Today's Pick:

Title: The Brightest Star in the Sky- Marian Keyes
Release Date: January 21, 2010

Genre: Chick Lit

From Amazon:

Marian Keyes's inimitable blend of rollicking humor, effervescent prose, and stories that deal with real-life issues have captivated readers around the globe. She is one of the bestselling authors of women's fiction in the English-speaking world. Her new novel will delight fans of Candace Bushnell's darkly comic sensibility and Sophie Kinsella's fast-paced action. The Brightest Star in the Sky follows seven neighbors whose lives become entangled when a sassy and prescient spirit pays a visit to their Dublin townhouse with the intent of changing at least one of their lives.

But what will this metamorphosis be and who will the sprite choose? There's Matt and Maeve, the newlyweds struggling to overcome the first obstacle in their storybook romance; Lydia, the brassy but vulnerable cabbie; Katie, the just-turned-forty PR executive searching for a more gratifying life; and the eldest resident, Jemima, currently playing hostess to her son Fionn, who is in town to star as the hunky gardener in a hot new television show.
Keyes's universal themes and appealing characters have made her an international phenomenon, and are sure to conquer a wider American audience. With The Brightest Star in the Sky, she delivers another satisfying story charming in its wit and surprising in its depth.

My Take: I love Marian Keyes and her writing. She can write characters with depth and who you want to curl up with and read about. Plus she writes it as chick lit so it has the humor, but women's lit so it has the deeper issues also. I am ready for it to come out.

Beautiful Creatures-Kami Garcia and Margie Stohl

2010-01-13T08:56:00.000-08:00

I really enjoyed this book more than I thought I would. The beginning was a little slow, but once it picked up it picked up. I sat one night and read 200 pages. I even forgot to eat. I really don't know how to review this book without giving a bunch away so I will do a quick short review.

Ethan lives in small town Gatlin. Everyone is the same until Lena shows up. Lena is different than the other girls and Ethan is drawn to her and into her crazy world. Throughout the book we learn about Lena and what makes her and her family different. The book is told from Ethan's point of view.

I can't say more how much I liked that the love story was just that a love story not a love triangle. The action was great and the characters well written. All the stories were woven together great. A must read

Sweethearts- Sara Zarr

2010-01-11T12:44:00.000-08:00

Where do I start with this book? The wonderful writing? Great characters? Heartfelt story? How about all of it? This book was a more serious, but still wonderful YA book.

Jennifer and Cameron were bestfriends in elementary school, in fact they were each other's only friends since they were outcasts. Then one day something happens and then Cameron is gone. Jennifer then moves to a new school and becomes "Jenna" the polar opposite of Jennifer. She is happy and then one day Cameron is back and going to her school. Jenna's world is turned upside down and now she isn't sure who she really is.

This book was great. It went a lot deeper than I expected it too. I loved all the characters and sat and read it in one sitting. Jenna/Jennifer was a great character and I really felt for her.

A to Z Author New Challenge

2010-01-11T11:21:00.000-08:00

I have decided to do an A-Z new author challenge can be first or last name the author just has to be new to me not a new author all together.

A
B-Jennifer Brown-Hate List
C
D-Barbara Delinsky-Not My Daughter
E-Ellen Hopkins- Crank
F
G
~~H-Jennifer Hubbard-The Secret Year~~
I
J-Anna Jarzab-All Unquiet Things
K-Lauren Kate- Fallen
L
M-Lisa McMann-Wake/Fade
N
O
~~P-Mary Pearson-Adoration of Jenna Fox~~
Q
R
S-Lisa Schroeder-Chasing Brooklyn
T
U
V
W-Rosalind Wiseman- Boys,Girls, and Other Hazardous Materials
X
Y-Richard Yates- Revolutionary Road
Z

In my Library Bag(2)

2010-01-11T11:09:00.000-08:00

In my library bag is my take on The Story Siren's In My Mailbox since I am trying not to buy books (it never works)

Revolutionary Road-Richard Yates
Hate List-Jennifer Brown
Lament: the faerie Queen's Deception-Maggie Stiefvater
Not My Daughter-Barbara Delinsky
Fade-Lisa McMann
Fallen-Lauren Kate
Chasing Brooklyn-Lisa schroeder
Also in transit:
The Betrayal of Natalie Hargrove-Lauren Kate
Boys, Girls, and other Hazardous Materials- Rosalind Wiseman.

Bought: (1.00 for both at Library)
Bend In the Road- Nicholas Sparks
The Choice-Nicholas Sparks

Considering I have a ton to read at home I better get a move on.

The Secret Year-Jennifer Hubbard

2010-01-08T11:58:00.000-08:00

I got this book from Jessica over at Reading Is Sexy. I got it yesterday after lunch and I couldn't wait to go home and dive right in. I dove in alright. I dove in and finished it. It was that good.

Julia and Colt are from different sides of the track. She is rich and he is not. They start a secret relationship that lasts for a year. When Julia dies in an accident Colt has to deal with his grief without letting others see and with having no one to help him. Then he gets Julia's diary that she wrote for him. The journal entries show us insight to Julia and her year with Colt. While reading the diary Colt is working on understanding his feelings and moving on with life, but is that possible?

If you read and liked Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher I think you will love this. I honestly could not tell this was Ms. Hubbard's first novel. She captured Colt great and I loved his family and his sidekicks. Plus there is a nod to The Outsiders and I loved that book.

In My Mailbox(1)

2010-01-07T10:48:00.000-08:00

In my mailbox was started by The Story Siren as a way to show off the books that we get.

In my mailbox:

Jessica from Reading is Sexy sent these two my way. I can't wait to dive into them.
The Secret Year-Jennifer Hubbard
The Unwritten Rule-Elizabeth Scott

Bought:

Bloom-Elizabeth Scott

Giveaways around the blog community

2010-01-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

1. Eleni over at /-La Femme Readers-/ is doing a 2010 book of your choice giveaway. Deadline is February 15, 2010.

Angie over at The Adventures of a YA Novelist is giving away an ARC of her book Everlasting

Cindy over at Princess Bookie is giving away 4 books for her NewYear giveaway

Sab over at YA Bliss has a list of giveaways on her sidebar

Brittlit over at Reading Nook is giving away a 2010 release to the 1st place and a 2009 release to the 2nd place winner.

Over on Only Sexy Books Allowed she is giving away an ARC of Something Like Fate by Susanne Colasanti.

I will try to do this when I see great contests.

Waiting on Wednesday

2010-01-06T11:18:00.000-08:00

Waiting on Wednesday is something I picked up while reading the blog Reading is Sexy. It is a chance for bloggers to show what book they can't wait for.

My Pick: A Match Made In High School- Kristin Walker

Release Date- Februray 4, 2010

Genre- Young Adult

From Goodreads:

When the principal announces that every senior must participate in a mandatory year-long Marriage Education program, Fiona Sheehan believes that her life can’t get any worse. Then she marries her “husband”: Jerky jock Todd, whose cheerleader girlfriend, Amanda, has had it in for Fiona since day one of second grade. Even worse? Amanda is paired with Fiona’s long-term crush, Gabe. At least Fiona is doing better than her best friend, Marcie, who is paired up with the very quiet, very mysterious Johnny Mercer. Pranks, fights, misunderstandings, and reconciliations ensue in an almost Shakespearean comedy of errors about mistaken first impressions, convoluted coupling, and hidden crushes.

My take: What is not to love about a senior project that includes a fake marriage. I can't wait to see what trouble comes of this project and the pairings.

A reading/Book Poll

2010-01-06T08:23:00.001-08:00

I found this as an old post on The Story Siren and decided I wanted to do it. What are your answers? Mine are below:

Do you snack while you read? If so, favorite reading snack?
If I snack it is popcorn.

Do you tend to mark your books as you read, or does the idea of
writing in books horrify you?
No writing at all it irritates me

How do you keep your place while reading a book? Bookmark? Dog-ears?Laying the book flat open?
Bookmark that is usually a piece of paper

Fiction, Non-fiction, or both?Fiction
Hard copy or audiobooks?
Hard copy

Are you a person who tends to read to the end of chapters, or are you
able to put a book down at any point?
I don't have to do end of chapters, but I really like to so I try to do it.

If you come across an unfamiliar word, do you stop to look it up right away?
no

What are you currently reading?
I'll finish The Adoration of Jenna Fox tonight and start Beautiful Creatures. Also working on my reread of Babyville for WBC.

What is the last book you bought?
Bloom

Are you the type of person that only reads one book at a time or can
you read more than one at a time?
one at a time unless one is a reread

Do you have a favorite time of day and/or place to read?
I like to read on my lunch break in my car because I have no distractions. Otherwise at home after dinner.

Do you prefer series books or stand alone books?
No preference although I am finding myself reading a lot of series now

Is there a specific book or author that you find yourself recommending over and over?
Jane Green, Jodi Picoult, and Sarah Dessen

How do you organize your books? (By genre, title, author’s last name, etc.?)
Just by size and then by author/series if I have them.

Hush, Hush-Becca Fitzpatrick

2010-01-06T05:17:00.000-08:00

I have seen reviews for this book everywhere that were good. I have a tendency to get books that get rave reviews and get excited to read them only to have them fall short and get disappointed. That in mind I decided to go into Hush, Hush knowing as little as possible about it. It worked because I ended up loving the book.

This is a story mostly about Nora and Patch. Nora doesn't like boys at her school and her friend Vee is always trying to get her to go out. Then one fateful day in biology her teacher decides to change the seating and Patch is her new partner. From then on weird frightening things are happening to Nora and she isn't sure why.

This book is action packed. Some of the things are about out there, but if you look past all that and focus on the plot and the characters you will not be sorry. I also saw that a sequel is coming out in October and I can't wait.

My Blog is Turning 1

2010-01-02T19:52:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow will be a year since I started this blog. I hope that this year I can grow the blog. I hope to have more features, better reviews, more followers, and contest. I hope to have a giveaway for my first year. Since it would be for my followers what would you like for me to give away:

1. A book (Name ones you would like)

2. A giftcard

I hope you stay with me and that 2010 is much better than 2009.

Twenty Boy Summer- Sarah Ockler

2010-01-02T19:34:00.000-08:00

Twenty Boy Summer is told by Anna. She goes on a 3 week summer vacation with her best friend Frankie after they were faced with a tragedy. They named their vacation the Absolute Best Summer Ever. The summer was supposed to help them forget the tragedy that Anna didn't really want to forget. They make a plan to meet 20 boys during their time at the beach.

During their time at the beach both Anna and Frankie both learn about themselves as well as the girl that they thought they had already knew everything about. The girls had been friends since they were babies and they had lived next door from each other.

The characters were not flat and they had many layers. I really felt that I got know them and their families and feelings without having so much detail that I couldn't use my imagination also which I love.

I can't wait to read her new one that will be released sometime in 2010.

A staple of my childhood reading is back!

2009-12-31T08:23:00.000-08:00

This was posted on The Nest Book Club board I post on.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/31/books/31babysitters.html?_r=3&pagewanted=1&src=twt&twt=nytimesbooks

Yes that is right Mary Anne, Kristy, Claudia, Stacey, Mallory, Jessica, and Dawn are going to be back. I personally will probably read it even if they are more for children. I loved them when I was little and would often get a book as my reward for doing chores or whatever it was that week. They really helped me to love reading. I hope it works with bringing kids a joy of reading again.

December Reads

2009-12-31T07:50:00.000-08:00

1.The Boy In the striped pajamas-John Boyne
2.Thirteen Little Blue Envelopes-Maureen Johnson
3.Living Dead Girl-Elizabeth Scott
4.How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls-Zoey Dean
5.Once Was Lost-Sara Zarr
6.Gossip Girl-Cecily Von Ziegesar
7.I am the Messenger- Markus Zusak
8.Cracked up to Be-Courtney Summers
9.Fighting Ruben Wolfe-Markus Zusak
10.The Handmaid's Tale-Margaret Atwood

Top 15 of 2009

2009-12-31T06:23:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it is December 31, 2009 already. It doesn't seem like it. I read over 100 books this year so limiting my stack to 15 was hard, but here they are:

Harry Potter Series-J.K. Rowling
The Secret Life of Bees-Sue Monk Kidd
The Truth About Forever-Sarah Dessen
Jessica Darling Series-Megan McCafferty
Wintergirls-Laurie Halse Anderson
Just Listen-Sarah Dessen
Along For the Ride- Sarah Dessen
Thirteen Reasons Why-Jay Asher
Lock and Key-Sarah Dessen
The Luxe Series-Anna Godbersen
Hunger Games/Catching Fire-Suzanne Collins
The Last Song-Nicholas Sparks
The Earth, My Butt, and other BIG Round Things-Carolyn Mackler
Audrey Wait-Robin Benway
Cracked Up to Be-Courtney Summers

There were so many more great ones, but these were my favorites.

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-12-30T13:48:00.001-08:00

Waiting on Wednesday wan introduced to me by Jessica over at Reading is Sexy. It is a feature for bloggers to swoon over upcoming releases they can't wait to get their hands on.

My Pick:

Not my Daughter by Barbara Delinsky.

From Amazon: Three high school seniors make a pregnancy pact. Heightening the stakes, these aren't just any seniors--these are three popular, college-bound girls from good families. Set in an insular, tightly knit community in Maine, Not My Daughter explores the consequences of pact behavior on a small town, as well as the strain placed on mothers and daughters who find themselves in unfamiliar terrain. One of the Pregnant teens is the daughter of the high school principal-- a former teen mother herself-- and the local school board is quick to assign blame. When the national media gets wind of the story, the principal's job is put in jeopardy, as is her standing in the community. Not My Daughter is a timely exploration of teen motherhood and the hard choices that sometimes have to be made in life.

My take: This should be a good book that deals with an issue that is happening a lot now. I like books where the author doesn't sugar coat teens and their issues.

Cracked Up to Be-Courtney Summers

2009-12-30T13:40:00.001-08:00

Cracked Up To Be by Courtney Summers is a great Young Adult book. This is the book that would put everyone who thinks YA is not good written literature into a different mindset.

Parker was the perfect girl.....Cheerleader, honor student, popular, etc. until one day that changes, but why did it change. She starts to drink, skip school, and alienate her friends, family, and counselor. The book is told in present time with Parker flashing back to the night that changed everything. Oh and of course there is a great boy who helps her to find herself again.

I loved this book and want to thank Jessica over at Reading is Sexy for recommending it to me. Courtney wrote Parker real and with a real voice and I enjoyed watching her layers unfold and to find out what happened to her.

Fighting Ruben Wolfe- Markus Zusak

2009-12-28T08:32:00.000-08:00

Fighting Ruben Wolfe was recommended to me by Jessica of Reading is Sexy. This book was so much more than what I expected.

Cameron and Ruben are brothers. They have an older brother Steven and an older sister Sarah. Their father is out of work and their mother works to hard so they just kind of exist. That is until they are noticed by a man who hosts fights in warehouses. They decide to fight for money and we see the brothers learn about themselves through these fights.

This book is great to show pride, heart, love, etc. It has it all. Cameron is a lovable main character and I can't wait to read the sequel Getting the Girl to see where his life is at now.

Merry Christmas/Happy Holidays

2009-12-24T08:02:00.000-08:00

From my house to yours have a great Holiday!!!

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-12-23T11:29:00.000-08:00

Waiting on Wednesday was introduced to me by Jessica over at Reading is Sexy. It is a feature for bloggers to swoon over upcoming releases they can't wait to get their hands on.

My Pick:

Some Girls Are-Courtney Summers

Release Date: January 5, 2010

Genre: Young Adult

Synopsis from Goodreads:

Climbing to the top of the social ladder is hard-falling from it is even harder. Regina Afton used to be a member of the Fearsome Fivesome, an all-girl clique both feared and revered by the students at Hallowell High......until vicious rumors about her and her best friend's boyfriend start going around.

Now Regina's been "frozen out" and her ex-best friends are out for revenge. If Regina was guilty, it would be one thing, but the rumors are far from the terrifying truth and the bullying is getting more intense by the day. She takes solace in the company of Michael Hayden, a misfit with a tragic past who she herself used to bully. Friendship doesn't come easily for these onetime enemies, and as Regina works hard to make amends for her past, she realizes that Michael could be more than just a friend....if threats from the Fearsome Foursome don't break them both first.

Tensions grow and the abuse worsens as the final days of senior year march toward an explosive conclusion in this dark new tale from the author of Cracked Up To Be.

My Thoughts: Drama, Love, Character growth all the makings of an excellent book. I can't wait to learn about Regina and Michael and see what happens with the fearsome group.

2010 Debut Author Challenges

2009-12-22T13:24:00.000-08:00

Over at The Story Siren she is doing a 2010 Debut Author challenge. I have decided to join in. The rules can be found here and you can also click on the button in the sidebar. I will keep a list of the books that I have read in the sidebar and also any reviews that I do will have the 2010 Debut Author challenge label for an easy find.

I am really looking forward to doing this! My list of my tentative books is as follows:

1. The Secret Year- Jennifer Hubbard
2. The Body Finder-Kimberly Derting
3.Tell Me A Secret- Holly Cupala
4. Firespell- Chloe Neill
5. Before I Fall- Lauren Oliver
6. The Naughty List-Suzanne Young
7. Party-Tom Leeven
8. Match Made in High School-Kristin Walker
9. Whisper-Phoebe Kitanidis
10. A Blue So Dark- Holly Schindler
11. The Best and Hardest Thing-Pat Brisson
12. The Cinderella Society-Kay Cassidy
13. Forget-Her-Nots-Amy Brecount White

Teaser Tuesday

2009-12-22T07:23:00.000-08:00

Teaser Tuesday asks you to: Grab your current read. Let the book fall open to a random page. Share with us two "teaser" sentences from that page, somewhere between lines 7 and 12. You also need to share the title of the book that you're getting your "teaser" from that way people can have some great book recommendations if they like the teaser you've given! Please avoid spoilers!

My Teaser:
Around us, I can sniff out a savagery in the noisy southern air. It knifes its way into my nose, but I do not bleed blood. It's fear I bleed, and it gushes out over my lip.

Fighting Ruben Wolfe-Markus Zusak
Lines 3-5
Page:85

Gossip Girl- Cecily von Ziegesar

2009-12-21T12:55:00.000-08:00

Gossip Girl by Cecily von Ziegesar was a guilty pleasure read. I watched the first season of the show and stayed away from the books because I was worried I wouldn't like it or it would ruin the show for me because the book was so much better. It kept tempting me though and I finally gave into temptation. The book is just as juicy and delicious as the show.

This book follows Blair, Serena, Nate, Dan, Jenny, Chuck, and a few other sidekicks. Blair, Serena, Nate, and Chuck are from privileged families and it shows. They have also been friends since they were toddlers, but are they friends or frenemies. Dan and Jenny are different from them and yet Dan longs for one and Jenny longs to be one. Does she do it?

If you have watched the show then you know the characters, but the book is different when it comes to their personalities. If you love the rich and famous you will love this book even if they aren't "real rich and famous".

In my Library Bag

2009-12-17T07:33:00.001-08:00

Kristi over at a great YA blog I frequent The Story Siren has a blog post called In My Mailbox. I am trying not to buy books so I go to the library way to often so I decided to do a play on her post and do In My Library Bag.

Picked up:

The Summer I Turned Pretty: Jenny Han

The Adoration of Jenna Fox: Mary Pearson

Witch & Wizard-James Patterson and Gabrielle Charbonnet

Hush Hush: Becca Fitzpatrick

Gossip Girl: Cecily von Ziegesar

Waiting on Wednesday

2009-12-17T07:10:00.000-08:00

Yes I know it is Thursday, but I still want to put this on here. It is a new blog post that I found over at Reading is Sexy that I wanted to add to my blog.

Today's Pick:

The Secret Year by Jennifer Hubbard

Release Date: January 7, 2010

Genre: Young Adult

Description from Amazon:

Take Romeo and Juliet. Add The Outsiders. Mix thoroughly.

Colt and Julia were secretly together for an entire year, and no one-not even Julia's boyfriend-knew. They had nothing in common, with Julia in her country club world on Black Mountain and Colt from down on the flats, but it never mattered. Until Julia dies in a car accident, and Colt learns the price of secrecy. He can't mourn Julia openly, and he is tormented that he might have played a part in her death. When Julia's journal ends up in his hands, Colt relives their year together at the same time that he's desperately trying to forget her. But how do you get over someone who was never yours in the first place?

My Thoughts: Sounds deliciously good and I can't wait to read it.

I am the Messenger-Markus Zusak

2009-12-17T07:03:00.000-08:00

I am the Messenger by Markus Zusak was an excellent book. The first chapter is the best and keeps you wanting more. The message in this book is a good one for people. The book is heartfelt, meaningful, funny, suspenseful, etc. I really could list about a million adjectives, but I would rather you just read it and decide on your own.

The book starts out with Ed and his friends in a bank during a bank robbery. Hilarious as it is the worst bank robbery ever. Ed becomes a hero after he gets the robber, but to him he isn't because he is stuck in the small town he grew up in and is nothing more than an underage cab driver. Then he receives an Ace of diamonds in his mailbox with addresses listed. He knows that people need his help and he starts on his journey. The journey takes him to help people as well as learning about himself.

The characters in this book are great even the dog, Doorman. Markus Zusak really knows how to write rootable characters that you want to keep learning about. Can't wait to try more of his books.

2010 YA challenge

2009-12-16T05:28:00.000-08:00

I came across this YA challenge from a post on the Nest Book Club. Since I had read quite a bit of YA this year and have a ton on my TBR pile still I have decided to do this challenge. The original post of this challenge is on J. Kaye's Book Blog. The rules are as follows:

1. Anyone can join. You do not need a blog to join. Just go to J.Kaye's Book Blog and leave your books in a comment under the post.

2. There are 4 levels:

--The Mini YA Reading Challenge-Read 12 Young Adult novels.

-- Just My Size YA Reading Challenge- Read 25 Young Adult Novels.

-- Stepping it Up YA Reading Challenge- Read 50 Young Adult Novels.

-- Super Size Me YA Reading Challenge- Read 75 Young Adult Novels.

3. Audio, eBooks, rereads all count.

4. No need to list your books in advance. You may select books as you go. Even if you list them now, you can change the list if needed.

6. Challenge begins January 1st thru December 2010.

I plan on trying for the Stepping it up YA Reading Challenge.

2010 Challenges

2009-12-15T08:54:00.000-08:00

This year I challenged myself to read 100 books. I have now surpassed that goal. I am now thinking of challenges for next year and thought of these:

1. Read at least one book over 500 pages a month
2. A to Z Book titles
3. A to Z authors
4. A to Z new authors

I am thinking of doing one YA challenge too, but haven't picked one out yet. I want to keep updating my blog and hope to add new content.

Once Was Lost-Sara Zarr

2009-12-15T08:05:00.000-08:00

Once Was Lost was my first Sara Zarr book. I have had her book Sweethearts on my list for a while, but haven't gotten around to it.

Samara is the daughter of a small town preacher. Everyone thinks they have a perfect family until her mom goes to rehab and her dad ignores her. Then a young girl goes missing and Samara starts to question what she has been raised to believe.

I really liked this book. I felt for Samara and wanted to just give her a big hug. I liked her friends and to watch her grow and figure things out on her own. The character of her dad bugged me to no end, but at the same time I could see why he did the things he did.

I now can't wait to get to Sweethearts.

Other recent Young Adult Books.

2009-12-09T08:37:00.000-08:00

Some others that I have read:
13 Little Blue Envelopes by Maureen Johnson: It was just an ok book. It follows Ginny through an adventure that her aunt set up for her through 13 letters. She travels around Europe and learns about her and her aunt. There wasn't a whole lot of character development though.

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne: GREAT BOOK. It is a quick read about Bruno who is a young boy during WWII. His father, who is an officer, moves Bruno and the rest of the family next to a concentration camp and we see the time through Bruno's eyes. John Boyne told this story fabously.

The Espressologist by Kristina Springer: A book as delicous as my peppermint mocha latte I was drinking while I read it. It is a quick Young Adult book about a girl who works for "starbucks" and does match making based on your favorite drink. There wasn't a lot of character development and yet I drank it up.

Living Dead Girl-Elizabeth Scott

2009-12-09T08:22:00.000-08:00

What a hauntingly good book. Living Dead Girl follows "Alice" who was kidnapped by Ray at age 10 from a school field trip. She is now 15 and has been dealing with Ray's abuse for the last 5 years. She is wondering what is going to happen next since the first "Alice" was killed at 15 when she got to old.

Elizabeth Scott wrote this book very well. She captured Alice's feelings and thoughts perfectly. I loved the ending and really the whole book. I will put a disclaimer that it while the scenes aren't really graphic graphic as it is a Young Adult book you will get the picture. I read this book in one day because I just needed to know what was going to happen no matter how uncomfortable I felt. I can't wait to read more from Ms. Scott

Over the Holidays-Sandra Harper

2009-12-09T06:03:00.000-08:00

I wanted something Christmas to read to keep me in the Christmas spirit. I saw this at Target and read the synopsis on the back and thought it sounded good. The book ended up being nothing that I thought it was going to be. I expected a light Christmas themed book, but it was actually deeper and didn't really center on Christmas at all.

Vanessa and her husband JT have twin 9 year olds so while Vanessa would rather not celebrate Christmas she has presents to buy, cookies to bake, and a tree to put up. At least this year she doesn't have to go to her sister in law,s house who is the Queen of Christmas. Then surprise her Sister in law and family come to visit her for Christmas. Many things happen there afterwards.

There were a lot of "WTF" moments for me, but it was a good read.

Shadowland-Alyson Noel

2009-12-09T05:51:00.001-08:00

The third in the Immortal series picks up about a week after Blue Moon ended. We see Ever and Damon trying not to touch each other and yet still having a relationship. Ever gets a job at a bookstore and we meet someone from her past. Roman is still there making trouble for Ever since losing his beloved Drina.

This one was not as interesting as the other two in the series. I found it lacking in the suspense and character development areas. I felt that I was guessing everything ahead of time. That being said I did still enjoy it. The next one Dark Flame comes out this summer.

Splendor-Anna Godbersen

2009-12-09T05:40:00.000-08:00

Splendor is the last book in The Luxe series. It is bittersweet as I love new books following old "friends", but hate that it is now over.

This book wraps up the lives of Elizabeth, Diana, Henry, Penelope, and Carolina. I don't want to spoil the series for those who have not read it, but the ending was not what I expected and in fact was disappointed at first. Now that it has been a little while I am happy with it.

Diana follows her heart, Carolina gets what is coming to her, Penelope is still the love to hate girl, Henry learns about himself, and Elizabeth finds information.

I am sad to see my friends go.

Bed of Roses- Nora Roberts

2009-11-20T06:10:00.000-08:00

This is the Bride Quartet book 2. It is about Emma and her flowers and of course her love life. Emma and Jack to me came out of no where with the oh we have been hot for each other, but didn't act on it. I liked the book, but I am not sure why I didn't love it like I did Vision in White.

Emma to me didn't grow as a character she was just there. She didn't have to change a thing and I love books where characters grow and learn about themselves. It was nice to catch up with the other girls too.

I have been busy

2009-11-20T06:06:00.000-08:00

Well reading and working. I went on a YA Spree. If I get to it I will post reviews of the books. Here is the list:
The Second Summer of the Sisterhood-Ann Brashares- 4 stars
Audrey, Wait-Robin Benway 4 stars
Perfect You-Elizabeth Scott 3 stars
Vegan Virgin Valentine-Carolyn Mackler-4 stars
Guyaholic-Carolyn Mackler- 4 stars
Love Is the Higher Law-David Levithan 3 stars
Keeping Faith-Jodi Picoult 4 stars

Keeping The Moon-Sarah Dessen

2009-10-19T08:45:00.000-07:00

This was my last Sarah Dessen book left and her third book. I can tell that she had hit her stride with this one after reading the first 2 books. I really enjoyed this one like I did her later ones. The sidekicks were great, the main character lovable, and of course the boy.

Colie used to be overweight and is currently anything, but popular. Her mom is a famous weight loss guru. While her mom travels in London Colie must go stay in a small town in North Carolina with her eccentric aunt. There Colie meets friends, learns about herself, and gets a job. Wow what a busy summer.

Fall Book Challenge

2009-10-16T07:29:00.001-07:00

I am doing a Fall Book Challenge!!!!

5 Point Tasks
1. IHO Breast Cancer Awareness month read a book with a pink cover or tile or about a victim's story. Audrey Wait

2. IHO Friday the 13th(Nov. 13th) read the 13th book on your TBR shelf. If you do not have a goodreads shelf then either read the 13th book on your physical shelf or if that isn't possible pull a title out of 13 pieces of paper. Sisterhood of the traveling pants 2

3.IHO Black Friday/Cyber Monday, read a book that you bought on clearance (that day or before) or sale or Read a book about shopping/retail.: Perfect You

4. IHO Christmas gift giving read a book that you were given as a gift or bought with a gift card. (If you don't get books as a gift buy yourself a book as a gift to yourself for being great!) Marley and Me or The Guardian

5. IHO the darker nights curl up with a mystery. Murder on the orient express

6. IHO the cold nights read a book under a blanket or in front of a fire.

7. IHO Fall colors read a book with a brown, orange, red, yellow, or black cover.Fourth of July

8. IHO Sweetest Day read a book with a flower or type of Candy in the title. Bed of Roses

9. IHO Sadie Hawkins day read a book where the main character is a male. The Outsiders

10. IHO Statue of Liberty dedication read a book set in New York. Shopaholic takes Manhattan

10 Point Tasks
1.Read a book by an author that you have been meaning to read, but haven't gotten around to. Percy Jackson

2. IHO National Teen Read Week read a Young Adult book. Vegan Virgin Valentine

3. IHO Daylight Savings Time fall back, read a Historical Fiction book Splendor

4. IHO fall read a book about Fall'ing in love, off the wagon, etc. The History of Love

5. Read a book that comes out in October, November, December:The Gift

6. Read an NBC monthly book that you wanted to read but didn't get the chance too. If you have read them all then read and discuss Oct., Nov., or Dec. book.
The Bolyen Inheritance or The Little Lady Agency

7. IHO the holidays Read a book about a religion other than your own: Plain Truth

8. IHO Halloween read a horror/suspense book: Heart Shaped Box

9. IHO Thanksgiving read a book about Families: Over The Holidays

10. IHO Halloween read a book about ghosts, witches, vampires, goblins, etc. Her Fearful Symmetry

15 Point Task
1. Go to random word generator (http://watchout4snakes.com/CreativityTools/RandomWord/RandomWord.aspx) and read a book with that word in the title or a book about that word or related to the word. Screwing- This Charming Man

2. Choose an unfinished task from one of the last 3 challenges and finish it. If you finished all the challenges redo your hardest task. If you haven't done any other challenges then go back to the tasks in the bookchallenge blog and pick your favorite to do. The Host (Read a book you started and didn't finish- SBC)

3. Read a book and pick a playlist of at least 5 songs that you feel would fit the book. Post the list on NBC: The Last Song

4. IHO T.V. starting read a book that a T.V. Show or Made for T.V. Movie/big screen movie was based off of. If possible watch the show or movie and Post a comparison
The Vampire Diaries
5. Read a book from the 1001 books to read list Middlesex or The Handmaids Tale

6. IHO Pearl Harbor and Rememberance Day read a book about WWII or a book about/set in Hawaii: Honolulu

7. IHO National Family Literacy month read a book a family member recommended to you. Keeping Faith

8. IHO Columbus Day read a book where the main character travels or a travel memoir: Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants

9. IHO Edgar Allen Poe's death and National Poetry month read a book of short stories or poetry: A Touch of Dead

10. Go to thisonenext.com and put in your last book read. Read one of the suggestions given to you on what to read next.The Earth, My Butt, And other round things

25 Point Task
1. MrsGinTN- Read a book and cook a MEAL that was inspired by the book. Keeping The Moon

2. Mrsfu-Read a fairy tale; then write your own modern version and post for the NBC. (can be as short or as long as you like)

3. am+a-Read a novel (not a memoir) by John Irving: Widow for a year

4. MrsJuicy2Be-Read a book about your dream career (fiction or non-fiction). Create a list of steps you need to take in order to have your dream career and post it. If you already have your dream job, read and write about the next step you'll take in your career. Letters to a Young Teacher

5. Jackiback- read 7,500 pages over the course of the FBC.

Her Fearful Symmetry-Audrey Niffenegger

2009-10-16T07:06:00.000-07:00

I fell in love with the Time Traveler's Wife so when I heard that Audrey had another book coming out I requested it before even reading the synopsis. While it wasn't Time Traveler's Wife good it was still a very enjoyable book.

Julia and Valentina are twins who have never met their Aunt Elspeth which is there mother's twin sister. Suddenly their Aunt dies and leaves them with her flat in London that is next to a Cemetery.

They move across the ocean and meet their neighbors and try to learn about why their mom and aunt never talked. They also learned about their own relationship with each other. There are plenty of twists and turns in this book and the story is written well. The last 100 pages will fly by.

Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants-Ann Brashares

2009-10-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

I finally started this series. They have been on my to read list for months and I have seen the movies so I am not sure why it took so long.

The book was great. I really enjoy books on friendship and how to have a lasting friendship because I just don't see that to much anymore. I really liked hearing from each girl about their adventures. Carmen with her father, Bridgette at soccer camp, Lena with her Grandparents, and Tibby at home.

I laughed, teared up, and just all around enjoyed this book a lot. I will be getting the rest because I can't wait to see what the girls have been up to.

My Earth, My Butt, and Other BIG Round Things-Carolyn Mackler

2009-10-16T06:52:00.000-07:00

This is my first Carolyn Mackler book and she did not let me down. Virginia is the perfect character. She has flaws, but she is rootable. I sat down and read this book in one sitting last Sunday and I want more. To see Virginia grow and learn about herself was so satisfying.

Virginia is a sophomore in high school. Her best friend has moved a way and she is forced to deal with High School by herself. Oh and did I mention she is a bigger girl? What is worse is her family is small and pretty and her brother was Mr. Popular at the school before her. Her mother is a teen counselor and is very well known, but can't listen to her own family. How is a girl to cope?

This book tackles a subject that just about every High School girl has dealt with. Carolyn deals with it in a good and funny way that gets her point across in a way that teens will get it and still have fun reading about it.

A Touch of Dead-Charlaine Harris

2009-10-16T06:46:00.000-07:00

It has been 5 months since the last Sookie book came out and I still have to wait 7 months until the next one comes out. That is to big of a gap of time to go without Sookie and Eric. I knew that Ms. Harris had written some Sookie short stories and I was thrilled to find out that she was releasing them all in one book.

This book has 4 short stories. They were cute, but not in depth enough. I know they are short stories, but I guess I was expecting something different. There was one story with Claude and Claudine, One with Eric, One about Hadley, and one set during Christmas. It curbed my Sookie need, but I still can't wait for May.

The Last Song-Nicholas Sparks

2009-10-16T06:30:00.000-07:00

This is Nicholas Sparks' latest book. I really enjoy Nicholas Sparks books. He can really write characters that I can connect with and want to root for. The Last Song was not a disappointment.

The Last Song is about Ronnie, her brother, her father, and their summer together. Ronnie's father left them and she didn't talk to him for 3 years when she is sent to his house for the summer. She is ready to hate the summer and go home the minute she gets there. In true Nicholas Sparks fashion we get to watch Ronnie meet new friends, learn about herself, and learn about her family.

All I have to say is have tissues ready. I cried in a few different places. This book hit home for me in a way and I am so glad that I read it!

The Luxe Series- Anna Godbersen

2009-10-16T06:18:00.000-07:00

This is a great series. It is a historical fiction that I have heard compared to Gossip Girl in the past. The books follow the Hollands (Elizabeth and Diana) and their friends, families, and enemies. The twists and turns of this book are great. There are things that happen that I never would have guessed were going to happen. Plus the covers are so breathtaking.

My favorite character of this series is Diana, but I feel connected with all of them. Anna writes with just enough detail for you to get a picture, but still be able to use your imagination also. The last in the series comes out November 1st.

Hunger Games/Catching Fire- Suzanne Collins

2009-09-18T06:12:00.000-07:00

I am doing one post for both of these books. They are the first 2 books in a series. They are such great books.

These books are about future America. There are 12 districts and a Capitol. The children are entered into a reality show type game that is a game to the death. The books follow Katniss and her family as well as her friends and district.

These books really make you think. Katniss is the perfect character to have tell the story. The relationships in this book are meaningful and deep. Watching Katniss be strong and grow and cry in this book was my favorite.

Cathching Fire starts a few months after Hunger Games ends and just continues the wonderful story. Lots of twists and turns.

I recommend these books to everyone and can't wait for the third one.

I am Back

2009-09-18T06:09:00.000-07:00

I promise to start doing better about getting my books added here. I haven't read a whole bunch of good ones, but I will be better.

My poor neglected blog

2009-08-20T08:51:00.000-07:00

I haven't added any of the books I have read in the last month or so. BOOO.
I will probably be adding them, but if not here is my list with a grade by it:

Someone Like You-Sarah Dessen (B)
Finger Lickin' Fifteen-Janet Evanovich (A)
The Luxe-Anna Godbersen (B)
Lucy Sullivan is Getting Married- Marian Keyes (B-)
L.A. Candy- Lauren Conrad (C although I will read the next one)
You Know Where To Find Me (C)
Rumors (B)

I only give The Luxe and Rumors b's because they start out slow for me, but once they start going the are addicting.

Summer Sisters-Judy Blume

2009-07-30T08:30:00.000-07:00

Oh Judy Blume how you fulfilled my love of reading in my youth. I remember hiding Forever from my parents afraid my mom would want to read it and get mad at me for reading it.

Summer Sisters is about Vix and Caitlin, friends from elementary school, and their summer trips to The Island to visit Caitlin's dad and step-mother. The friendship that these girls had was unusual, but at the same time long lasting despite their problems.

Vix is the shy girl who has had a hard family life. She is smart and likes to read. Caitlin's family take her in and help her to recognize her potential and help her to go to college and be the success that she wants to be.

Caitlin is the pretty, popular, rich, selfish, and carefree girl. She wants what she wants and will get it no matter what. She travels the world with no regards to her future.

I really enjoyed this book, but I am a sucker for a book about friendships. There were some things that made me blush, but I liked the characters, even the ones that I Loved to hate.

I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for an easy read for the beach or just for a lazy day.

Vision in White-Nora Roberts

2009-07-30T08:17:00.000-07:00

This was my first Nora Roberts book. Boy did I pick a good one. I have always thought about becoming a wedding planner so I thought this book would be just my style. I was right.

I really liked that Ms. Roberts had the business and the love story along with friendship all woven together. The story and the writing fit together beautifully.

I really enjoyed the characters and could see me working for Vows even if Parker is high strung (I think she just needs an assistant to help with her part). I do wish I could see Mac's pictures some how.

Now I have to wait till October for the next one Bed of Roses.

Along For The Ride-Sarah Dessen

2009-07-23T12:29:00.001-07:00

Along For The Ride is Sarah's newest book. This one follows Auden who has just graduated from High School. She is an insomniac and her parents are divorced. She was always the good child while her brother was the wild child. She has never done the whole "teen scene" . She decides to go to spend the summer before college with her father, his new wife, and brand new baby.

Auden's growth warmed my heart. I loved reading about her mission to be a "teen". Eli was another great male character. Of course I loved the supporting cast of friends she makes and learns how to be a girl friend with. I also loved seeing others pop up (Jason) and them selling the key necklaces.

As always I was not disappointed.

Lock and Key-Sarah Dessen

2009-07-23T11:53:00.000-07:00

I truly enjoy Sarah Dessen's books. I was excited to read this book since a lot of people enjoyed it. It started a little slow for me, but there was history that was important to Ruby's character that needed to be introduced. The book really picked up though and I ended up loving it.

Ruby is a great character. She reminded me of myself there for a while. While I didn't have to live with my sister because I did have my father my mother left me also. I was very close to my older sister and often even to this day think of her as a substitute mom in my life.

Can I just say that Nate and Wes (The Truth About Forever) have to be the best males from her books. Nate was not the typical male character from Sarah's books as he was the popular kid instead of the outsider. I really enjoyed that and getting into his life with his father and such.

I actually ended the book wishing that Ms. Dessen would write a sequel to this book.

Fearless Fourteen-Janet Evanovich

2009-07-23T08:59:00.001-07:00

Number 14 was good. I think they have gotten better the higher the numbers. Stephanie is always getting herself in trouble and Grandma Mazur is just hilarious. I loved that Stephanie and Morelli were basically living together again and I wish she would realize she doesn't love 2 men she loves 1 and lusts after another.

Lean Mean Thirteen-Janet Evanovich

2009-07-07T13:32:00.000-07:00

I was going to read something different over the long weekend, but decided I would keep the weekend light so I picked up Lean Mean Thirteen. I am so glad that I did. Besides making me laugh out loud so many times I found myself drooling over her descriptions of the food that they made in this book.

So what happens in this book without telling spoilers: Grandma gets a boyfriend, Stephanie works with Ranger again, and we get to have a mystery with Joyce Barnhart and Stephanie's Ex Dickie ( which happens after Stephanie threatens to kill him). Everyone who knows Stephanie and her crew know it is a great book.

Dune Road-Jane Green

2009-07-07T13:23:00.000-07:00

I have read a lot of Jane Green's books and have enjoyed them. This is not your typical Jane Green book, but just as entertaining. I read it quickly and found it hard to put it down. The book follows 3 women friends and their relationship as well as their families. It also shows their struggles with love, divorce, kids, and the financial crisis.

Charlie is married with kids. She has the big house, the cars, and the money. But is her world really that great?

Kit is a divorced mom of 2. Her ex is very much in the picture. Kit also finds herself dealing with dating and family.

Tracy is the newest to the group and she owns her own business and is trying to find love after she started her life over after her 2nd divorce.

There are other characters in the book that give this book a well rounded story and the charm that is Jane Green.

Summer Book Challenge Tasks

2009-07-01T08:18:00.000-07:00

The Summer Book Challenge over on the nest started today. I am so excited because a ton of the books I wanted to read fit. Here is my list:

5 POINT TASKS

1. IHO the Beautiful weather read a book while enjoying the outdoors.

2. Take 10 books you want to read and put the titles in a hat, pick one at random and read that book. Plain Truth

3. Read a book with a Summer word in the title (sun, heat, sand, hot, etc). Firefly Lane

4. Read a book considered a beach read (Chick lit, etc.).

5. IHO Friendship day (August 2nd) read a book about friends or siblings. Best Friends Forever-Jennifer Weiner

6. Read a book with a food or drink in the title. Watermelon-Marian Keyes

7. Post a poll on NBC of 5 books of your choice and let the nesties pick your next book (leave up for at least a day)

8. Read a book that takes place at a beach, ocean, lake, or resort. Along for the Ride-Sarah Dessen

9. Christmas in July, Read a book about/set during Christmas: On Stike for Christmas-Sheila Roberts

10.IHO Dog days of Summer read a book with the word dog in the title or about a dog. Marley and Me- own

10 POINT TASKS

1. IHO summer blockbusters read a book of your choice and then choose your cast, then share with NBC. Finger Lickin Fifteen- Janet Evanovich

2. IHO Fourth of July read a book about the revolutionary war or any other important time in your Country’s history.

3. IHO Women’s equality day (August 26th) read a book with a woman as the main character or about a woman you admire. Dune Road-Jane Green

4. Read a book set in a place you have, will, or would like to travel to. Lock and Key-Sarah Dessen (travel to N.C. to see my sister) own

5. Read a book about a Summer romance or a romance book. The Guardian own

6. Read a book about a library, librarian, book store, or anything else book related. Bookends-Jane Green or Thirteenth Tale

7. Read a book about getting married, weddings, being married. Vision in White-Nora Roberts

8. Read a book with a verb in the title (Walk, run, talk, etc). What was she Thinking: Lucy Sullivan is Getting Married.

9. Read a book you first heard about on NBC. Perfect Match-Jodi Picoult

10. Read a book with a teenager as the main character or set in a high school. The Tenth Circle Own

15 POINT TASKS

1. Read a book that an author you enjoy has read or suggested. A bump in the road- Maureen Lipinski (Jen Lancaster) Candy Girl (Sarah Dessen)

2. IHO back to school in August read a book off your high school’s summer reading list. A Great and Terrible Beauty

3. Read a book by an author born in July, August, September. Notes on a Scandal

4. Read a book about a disaster or tragedy (Tornado, hurricane, 9/11, plane crash, etc.) Columbine- Dave Cullen

5. Judge a book by its cover, read a book based solely on the cover or title. I Heart You,You Haunt Me or You Know Where to Find Me.

6. Read a book about Royalty (Tudors, Princess Diaries, etc): The Secret Diary of Anne Boleyn- Robin Maxfield

7. Read July, August, or September’s NBC book and participate in the discussions. Summer Sisters- Judy Blume

8. Read the first and second (or 3rd and 4th) book in a series 4th of July and 5 Horseman- James Patterson

9. Read a book that is at least 500 pages. Vampire Diaries?

10. Second chances- Read a book by an author you didn’t enjoy the first time around. The Accidental Mother own

25 POINT TASKS

1. Mrs.GinTN- Read a book and cook a meal inspired by that book. Lean Mean Thirteen and I made homemade spaghetti sauce and garlic bread.

2. AdaraMarie-Read a book recommended by the staff at your local library or bookstore. Complete the task by posting a review of the book with no spoilers so we can all learn your opinion of the book. Angry Housewives Eating Bon Bons or the Luxe

3.Mac&Chip- Read a book and do an activity that the characters in the book did.

4.RoMoSquare- Read a book over 700 pages: I know this much is true-wally Lamb

5. Rebus82- Read a book that you've never read before because it has always intimidated you. Afterward, make a non-spoiler WIJFR post about how you feel about the book now that you've finally read it, and if you feel the original intimidation was justified.

6.danamh83- Read a book written by or about a famous person (living or dead) that you would like to meet. Post a list of questions you would like to ask them, based on what you read in the book. Moonwalk by Michael Jackson

Evermore-Alyson Noel

2009-06-30T06:02:00.000-07:00

I went into this book with no expectations. I didn't really know what it was fully about, but it seemed like it could be interesting. I was right. This books was great. Alyson Noel had a good idea when she came up with this story. She made Ever a great rootable character.

Ever is 16 and the rest of her family died in a car accident. She is now living with her aunt who is a big time lawyer and is not used to having kids. She is visited everyday by her 12 year old sister Riley. She has 2 friends, Haven and Miles. She also sees people's auras and read their minds, until Damen.

The book follows Ever and Damen and their relationship. It also shows Ever and her grief and guilt over losing her family. She grew in this book although she never really took crap from people. Her relationship with Damen was refreshing in that respect.

All in all a good book that I would recommend to those who enjoy YA books or a love story.

`June Reads`

2009-06-30T06:01:00.000-07:00

June was a little bit of a slower month. There was 2 books that I started, but due to time and having to return them to the library I didn't finish.

1. Twelve Sharp-Janet Evanovich
2.Thirteen Reasons Why- Jay Asher
3. Grave Sight-Charlaine Harris
4.Such A Pretty Fat- Jen Lancaster
5.Speak- Laurie Halse Anderson
6.Another Mother's Life-Rowan Coleman
7.Evermore-Alyson Noel

Monday Mind Games

2009-06-29T13:02:00.000-07:00

I picked this up on a book blog forum. The question is from Sheila DeChantal.....

What is your indulgent book? You know the book that you just love... that you could read again and again.....

Mine now would have to be a tie between The Pact by Jodi Picoult and all the Harry Potter books (I can't pick just one).

Another Mother's Life-Rowan Coleman

2009-06-25T08:54:00.000-07:00

This was my first by Rowan Coleman so I wasn't sure what to expect. I saw the cover and it grabbed me so I read the back and decided to try it out.

It is about Alison and Catherine who were best friends from grade school until Alison ran off with Catherine's boyfriend. 15 years later Alison and said boyfriend are married and are moving back to the town that they left.

The characters in this book were pretty good. I think they could have been developed more. The kids were adorable. The plot was ok, but it was pretty predictable. The ending was rushed and left some things unanswered.

Speak- Laurie Halse Anderson

2009-06-25T08:48:00.000-07:00

I really liked Wintergirls by Ms. Anderson so I thought I would really like this book. It was just ok. I didn't fall in love with the character and really felt that she wasn't developed at all. I know that something happened to her and that her home life isn't the greatest, but it just didn't work for me. It reminded me a lot of Sarah Dessen's Just Listen and after reading that book this one just didn't live up.

Dreamland-Sarah Dessen

2009-06-18T08:57:00.000-07:00

Dreamland was a sad book. It pulled me right in though. I loved Caitlin's character and felt for her. Rogerson is the first male Sarah Dessen character that I didn't like from the beginning. There was something about him that was just off.

Dreamland is about Caitlin's life after her sister Cass leaves in the middle of the night. She mets Rogerson and things go south after that. We get to see Caitlin at her worst and how she grows a little during a tough time.

Again I think every teen girl should read this book.

Such A Pretty Fat-Jen Lancaster

2009-06-18T08:51:00.000-07:00

This book is typical Jen Lancaster, Hilarious, sarcastic, witty, and inspirational. She made me want to lose weight while I read this. I realized that I make losing weight and dieting harder than it needs to be.

The stories in this book of Jen losing weight, being at the gym, going swimming were so funny. Her Jenny Craig stories had me laughing out loud. I will probably go buy this book to keep.

I am a little sad that I have finished her books, but I do know she is working on another on hopefully to be out next year.

Grave Sight-Charlaine Harris

2009-06-18T08:48:00.001-07:00

This was my first non Sookie Stackhouse book by Charlaine Harris. It was an ok book I still love the Sookie series more. Harper is a good character, but she reminded me of a not a not independent Sookie. Harper and her step brother have an almost uncomfortably close relationship.

Harper can find dead people and see their last minute. She goes to a small town to find a missing girl and ends up in a mystery.

The book is darker than the Sookie books. I will check out the rest of the series.

Thirteen Reason's Why-Jay Asher

2009-06-18T08:35:00.000-07:00

This book was hauntingly good. It is about a young girl who had committed suicide. She made tapes as sort of a suicide note. There were 7 tapes. Each side a different person who had an impact on her. The book follows the one boy listening to all the tapes. He was the boy with a crush on her.

I felt so bad for Clay through out the whole book. I wanted to take him in my arms and hug him and tell him not to worry that he did all he could. Hannah bothered me a little bit. I know that she wanted people to know that their actions have more impact than a lot of kids realize, but I am not sure the tapes were the way to do it.

I would recommend this book to all teens though and if I was a school counselor it would be an assignment to any child I was working with.

My poor neglected blog

2009-06-18T08:34:00.000-07:00

I have missed you. I have a few updates to do. I have been busy becoming a healthy adult.

But most of my updates are for YA books :)

Twelve Sharp-Janet Evanovich

2009-06-03T07:06:00.001-07:00

Oh Stephanie Plum how much trouble can you get into? LOTS. Stephanie has another stalker, but he is after someone else also. The usual characters are back and we meet some new ones along the way.

This book is my favorite of the series so far. It cracked me up all the way through and I loved the plot. We get both Morelli and Ranger. We get to learn some about Ranger's past. Stephanie has an Epiphany at the end that I have been waiting for her to have and can't wait to see where it leads.

May's Reads

2009-06-03T06:56:00.000-07:00

1. Perfect Fifths-Megan McCafferty
2.Friends-A collection of YA authors
3.Dead and Gone- Charlaine Harris
4.Pretty and Plaid- Jen Lancaster
5. Just Listen-Sarah Dessen
6. Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist-David Levithan and Rachel Cohen
7. Saving Zoe-Alyson Noel
8. Something Happened- Greg Logsted
9. Here Come the Bridesmaids (BSC)
10. Winter Vacation (BSC)

Something Happened- Greg Logsted

2009-06-03T06:47:00.000-07:00

Where do I even start with this book. First off the cover made me think that the boy in the story was going to be in high school, but I was wrong he was just starting 8th grade. I should have stopped right there.

Billy had lost his father in a tragic accident about 5 months before this book starts. He is dealing with that loss, helping his mom with his twin sisters, and his mom ignoring him because she is always working. Some of his friends have lost interest in him and now 8th grade is starting.

There is a new teacher at the school and she takes an interest in Billy and well I am sure you can figure out the rest. An inappropriate relationship starts and it isn't Billy's fault. Billy is an innocent kid I honestly believe.

The ending was rushed and the whole book just made me uncomfortable.

Saving Zoe- Alyson Noel

2009-05-27T12:35:00.000-07:00

This book was great. It gripped me from the beginning. I got so invested in the characters. I wanted to know what was going to happen to Zoe and also my heart ached for Echo (Zoe too really) as she read her sister's diary.

The little mystery that surrounded Zoe's death was done great. I had no idea what fully happened until the end and I was saddened.

This is one I will recommend to other Young Adult readers.

Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist

2009-05-27T12:02:00.000-07:00

I kept seeing the trailer for this movie. Being the book nerd that I am I wanted to read the book before seeing the movie. I am glad that I got the book.

I really enjoyed that the chapters alternated between Nick and Norah's views of the evening. I really enjoyed the characters also. There were some really great scenes that I wont mention here for people who haven't read the book.

I am not sure if I will watch the movie or not now that I enjoyed the book so much.

Just Listen-Sarah Dessen

2009-05-27T11:22:00.000-07:00

This is my 3rd Sarah Dessen book. I liked this one just as much as the others.

Just Listen is about Annabel. She is the youngest of 3 girls. All 3 of them are or have been models with their mother as their "manager". Annabel's and her sisters are all different and the middle sister is sick. Her best friend is mad at her and throughout the book we find out what really happened when her social world got turned upside down.

Annabel becomes friends with the school's bad boy and learns more about herself then she ever thought possible. She begins to mend fences with her sister and come to terms with her friends and what happened.

This book is a great one for girls who are still trying to find their voice. Annabel is a great character as well as her family and her friends.

Pretty In Plaid-Jen Lancaster

2009-05-27T10:54:00.000-07:00

This is Jen's newest one. I have had it done for a few weeks. It was hilarious as usual. This book takes us from Jen's 8th birthday until now. She takes us through her elementary days, high school, college, and her first post college job.

This book also explains how her and Fletch met. She continues with her antics. I literally laughed out loud at many parts.

Dead And Gone-Charlaine Harris

2009-05-08T08:25:00.000-07:00

The newest installment of Sookie Stackhouse and her crazy town. I couldn't wait to get this and gobbled it up in a day and a half and that is with working and sleeping. Now I have to wait another year :(

This book takes place a few months after the last one. Amelia and Octavia are still with Sookie. Sookie is trying to of course figure out her feelings for all the men in her life and dealing with her brother's betrayal.

There was a lot of action in this book and some surprising deaths. I am still trying to process the book and because of all the action it is hard to review without spoilers so I will just say that it was a great book.

Friends-Various Authors

2009-05-07T13:14:00.001-07:00

This book was just OK. Some stories I could have done without and some were good. It was a book from different authors that wrote about making friends. I could tell it was young adult.

April's Reading

2009-05-07T13:10:00.000-07:00

Here are the books that I read in April and thier grade

1.Second Helpings-4 stars
2.Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince- 5 stars
3. Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows-5 stars
4.The Ashley's-3 stars
5. Babysitter's on Board- 4 Stars
6. Starring The Babysitters- 4 stars
7. Water for Elephants- 4 stars
8.Wintergirls- 4 stars
9. Charmed Thirds- 5 stars
10. Fourth Comings- 4 stars

I didn't realize I had such a great reading month. I hope to do it again next month.

Perfect Fifths-Megan McCafferty

2009-05-07T13:04:00.000-07:00

The fifth and last Jessica Darling book. :(

When I started the series I thought Jessica was a little bit whiny. Now as I reflect I see that she was 16. In this book she is 26 and she is working. This book is set at an airport where Jessica and Marcus spend the day together. We learn about their lives and what has happened during the 3 years that happened between book 4 and 5. We learn about their friends, careers, and feelings for each other.

I think this book did a great job of finishing up the series and it also made me wish for more to come.

Fourth Comings-Megan McCafferty

2009-05-07T12:57:00.000-07:00

The fourth of the Marcus/Jessica saga. This book was Jessica's journal to Marcus that takes place during one week in September. Jessica does some more growing in this book well she ponders an important question that would change her life :)

Jessica spends a lot of time with her niece in this book and her niece reminds me of mine. They are the same age and both so smart and so insightful at such a young age. Jessica's relationship with her sister really moved me in this book and again reminded me of how my own sister and I got closer as I got older and she had kids.

I really enjoyed this book and seeing Jessica older and trying to find her place in the world after college.

Charmed Thirds-Megan McCafferty

2009-04-29T12:01:00.000-07:00

The third Jessica Darling book and I think my favorite so far. I read a lot of reviews before going into this book and people didn't seem to like this book. I loved it.

In this book Jessica is writing in her journal during her breaks from Columbia University. She is going through some drama with Marcus in the whole book. She is also going through what typical college students go through when they are trying to find out who they are and what the future holds for them.

I really liked seeing her grow and also her relationships with her parents and sister grow. She made and lost friends and that is how it goes.

I started Fourth Comings last night.

Eleven on Top-Janet Evanovich

2009-04-29T11:55:00.000-07:00

Number Eleven in the Stephanie Plum series. It was as funny as usual. I read it in 2 sittings. The only reason why it wasn't 1 is because I started it later at night.

Stephanie has decided that she is done with being a bounty hunter because she has her apartment back and is tired of having people break in. Throughout the book you hear of her many jobs and they had me laughing out loud.

Her family is back and crazy as ever as Valerie plans her wedding. Lula is back and also as nuts as ever, now that she is a full fledged bounty hunter. Her take downs will again have you laughing out loud.

Stephanie is again, as always, pulled in different directions about her love life and which guy she wants, Joe or Ranger. She is also being harassed by a former FTA, who is it and what will happen?

Wintergirls- Laurie Halse Anderson

2009-04-29T11:50:00.000-07:00

Wintergirls was a book about a girl who is Anorexic and her and her family's struggle with the disease. Lia goes through a tragedy right at the beginning that paves the way for her self hatred.

This book was sad, but haunting. I haven't had anyone around me with a problem like that so I had no idea what to expect. I really liked Lia and it made me sad reading about her struggle because I felt like I was seeing a friend going through the disease.

I was happy by the ending because it wasn't wrapped up in a bow, but it was done realistically which is the best when it is such a dense true subject. I will be checking out some other books by Laurie Halse Anderson.