51. The House on Mango Street - Sandra Cisneros (Completed 1/31/11) - I'm a strong believer that we should reread certain books every five-ten years. This is one of those books.
52. My Sister's a Barista - John Simmons (Completed 2/7/11) - I wrote about this book a few times in my I <3 Starbucks posts (which are many, I know). Simmons does not work for Starbucks in any way. However, he blends the observer/participant lines to create a narrative and business plan for one of the biggest, most successful businesses in the world.
53. The Sugar Queen - Sarah Addison Allen (Completed 2/10/11) - Ohhhh, I love Sarah Addison Allen. She is is such a fantastic writer. This time, the stories of the characters surround a chubby girl with a sweet tooth and her friend that has the strange ability to communicate with books. As a former chubby girl and a girl who wishes her books could understand her, I devoured this book in two days.
54. Baba Yaga Laid an Egg - Durbavka Ugresic (Completed 2/12/11) - If you aren't familiar with the Canongate Myth Series, take the time out of your reading schedule to get acquainted. The Canongate Myth Series features many talented writers from all over the world who reimagine popular myths. Baba Yaga is just another gem in the already gleaming Canongate crown. This book centers on aging, the maiden/mother/crone concept, and then turns into a dissertation on the history of Baba Yaga. When you finish this novel, add Margaret Atwood's Penelopiad, Jeannette Winterson's Weight, and Karen Armstrongs' A Short History of Myth to your list. Since I'm currently trying to work my way through the list (and it's difficult because so many are out of print), I'll keep you posted on other suggestions.
55. The Reapers are the Angels - Alden Bell (Completed 2/16/11) - I'm not a zombie fan. I hate them. They scare me, they disgust me...and, mostly, they scare me. I keep thinking of that Bob's Burgers episode where Tina says, "I'm not a zombiephile. They scare me, but I like their swagger." This is their swagger. In a world where we can't turn a corner in a bookstore because of teen paranormal romance, adult paranormal romance, adult paranormal mystery, teen paranormal fiction, science fiction, zombie anthologies, and fiction-based, but could be true, paranormal stories, this is a breath of fresh air. A breath of fresh air found in a world where it smells pungently of zombie flesh. I didn't find myself so frightened since Bell is a talented enough writer to know that zombies aren't the entire story. Those left behind are the real main characters.
56. The Wee Free Men - Terry Pratchett (Completed 2/22/11) - I laughed, I cried, I shook my fist to the heavens. Tiffany Aching in an adorable character and Pratchett manages to sneak a moral into the story among the hijinks that ensue. Kind of like when your mom used to sneak veggies into the pasta sauce. Pretty sneaky, sis.
57. Lyra's Oxford - Philip Pullman (Completed 2/24/11) - A great novella reuniting us with Lyra and Pan. However, if you haven't read His Dark Materials yet, then shame on you...
58. The Girl Who Chased the Moon - Sarah Addison Allen (Completed 3/5/11) - Yes, I know. I couldn't help myself. I ran out and got this after I finished The Sugar Queen. I can't get enough of this woman's writing. I did manage to drag this out for three days, but it was only because I wanted to savor the story.
59. What-the-Dickens - Gregory Maguire (Completed 3/9/11) - I'm such a huge fan of Wicked and Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister, but I wasn't into this story. This is a cute tale about tooth fairies, but the cutesy part of the story kind of got in the way.
60. Let the Great World Spin - Colum McCann (Completed 3/16/11) -This came highly recommended by a friend whose taste I trust completely. I was too young to witness the man walking a tightrope across the Twin Towers. But the Twin Towers have always been a part of my childhood and I still mourn them to this day (as do most people in this country). This is a gorgeous homage to the most beautiful manmade structures in the history of the world.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Bookworm Goddess: My Yearly Reads #41-50
41. The Witch Queen's Secret - Anna Elliot (Completed 11/21/10) - This was a short story that was free for all Nook readers (Yes, I have my Nook now! Best. Birthday. Present. Ever). It continues the tale of Isolde and fits right between the first book and the second. I really love the idea of Queen Isolde as the "witch queen." We pride the stories of Avalon on having such an open mind of all things magic. It is interesting to read a moment in King Arthur history where everyone was an ignorant, religionous fanatic just like everyone else. I feel for Isolde because she joins the ranks of so many misunderstood women. And it provides a good lesson to all: Magic is here to stay, whether we like it or not. My advice: Like it.
42. The Lost Hero: Heroes of Olympus #1 - Rick Riordan (Completed 11/28/10) - Oh, Rick Riordan, whenever there is one of your books in my house I get nothing done. This book kicks off the new series, right where Percy and his friends left off. The characters are new, but I still get excited when I meet up with the old faces from the Olympians series. Once again, a fast-pacing, exciting read. The only bad thing about this book is that I have to wait until September for the next volume.
43. The Book of Love - Kathleen McGowan (Completed 12/17/10) - Again, a beautiful piece of writing and research. I think this is my favorite of the Magdalene Line series. In this volume, Maureen and the reader are introduced to the intelligent, powerful woman known as Matilda. A kind and generous ruler over her people, a strong warrior, another famous redhead...and one hell of a chess player. The Time Returns.
44. Aesop's Fables (Completed 12/27/10) - I read this book as a kid and I have yet to stop reading it. I learn something new every time.
45. Garden Spells - Sarah Addison Allen (Completed 12/29/10) - I always saw this book in B&N and I always wanted to pick it up. Thanks to my Nook, I finally did and I am happy to report that I will read anything this woman writes. Part Practical Magic, part recipe book, and 100% Allen.
46. Click - Almond, Coifer, Doyle, Ellis, Hornby, Lanagan, Maguire, Ozeki, Park, Wynne-Jones (Completed 1/3/11) - This was a great idea. A book written in turn by some of the best YA and fiction writers. However, the story is a little weak, and I found myself praising the practice and not the plot.
47. Gone - Lisa McMann (Completed 1/12/11) - After months of waiting for this to make its way to shelves, I happily settled down to read the last installment. I can't really say too much because I don't want to spoil the story. Read it for yourself. It's worth it.
48. Fragments: Poems, Intimate Notes, Letters by Marilyn Monroe - ed. by Stanley Buchthal and Bernard Comment (Completed 1/13/11) - I love Marilyn Monroe. But, of course, so does everyone else. For those that really claim to love Marilyn, I offer you a challenge: read this book and see what she was really like. Read her thoughts, dreams, fears, and plans for the future. You haven't seen her like this yet.
49. A Short History of Women - Kate Walbert (Completed 1/24/11) - Needless to say, I cried when I reached the end of this book. This novel chronicles the lives of one family of women throughout the most daring and frightening parts of the feminist movements. Every character is flawed, yet strikingly beautiful. This is the way female characters are supposed to be.
50. Bizenghast, Volume 2 - M. Alice LeGrow (Completed 1/29/11) - What is going on in this book? I am so confused. Let's hope I get it in the next volume. Dinah, I'm rooting for you.
42. The Lost Hero: Heroes of Olympus #1 - Rick Riordan (Completed 11/28/10) - Oh, Rick Riordan, whenever there is one of your books in my house I get nothing done. This book kicks off the new series, right where Percy and his friends left off. The characters are new, but I still get excited when I meet up with the old faces from the Olympians series. Once again, a fast-pacing, exciting read. The only bad thing about this book is that I have to wait until September for the next volume.
43. The Book of Love - Kathleen McGowan (Completed 12/17/10) - Again, a beautiful piece of writing and research. I think this is my favorite of the Magdalene Line series. In this volume, Maureen and the reader are introduced to the intelligent, powerful woman known as Matilda. A kind and generous ruler over her people, a strong warrior, another famous redhead...and one hell of a chess player. The Time Returns.
44. Aesop's Fables (Completed 12/27/10) - I read this book as a kid and I have yet to stop reading it. I learn something new every time.
45. Garden Spells - Sarah Addison Allen (Completed 12/29/10) - I always saw this book in B&N and I always wanted to pick it up. Thanks to my Nook, I finally did and I am happy to report that I will read anything this woman writes. Part Practical Magic, part recipe book, and 100% Allen.
46. Click - Almond, Coifer, Doyle, Ellis, Hornby, Lanagan, Maguire, Ozeki, Park, Wynne-Jones (Completed 1/3/11) - This was a great idea. A book written in turn by some of the best YA and fiction writers. However, the story is a little weak, and I found myself praising the practice and not the plot.
47. Gone - Lisa McMann (Completed 1/12/11) - After months of waiting for this to make its way to shelves, I happily settled down to read the last installment. I can't really say too much because I don't want to spoil the story. Read it for yourself. It's worth it.
48. Fragments: Poems, Intimate Notes, Letters by Marilyn Monroe - ed. by Stanley Buchthal and Bernard Comment (Completed 1/13/11) - I love Marilyn Monroe. But, of course, so does everyone else. For those that really claim to love Marilyn, I offer you a challenge: read this book and see what she was really like. Read her thoughts, dreams, fears, and plans for the future. You haven't seen her like this yet.
49. A Short History of Women - Kate Walbert (Completed 1/24/11) - Needless to say, I cried when I reached the end of this book. This novel chronicles the lives of one family of women throughout the most daring and frightening parts of the feminist movements. Every character is flawed, yet strikingly beautiful. This is the way female characters are supposed to be.
50. Bizenghast, Volume 2 - M. Alice LeGrow (Completed 1/29/11) - What is going on in this book? I am so confused. Let's hope I get it in the next volume. Dinah, I'm rooting for you.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Bookworm Goddess: My Yearly Reads #31-40
31. Bridget Jones's Diary - Helen Fielding (Completed 9/22/10) - Yay, Bridget!! I first read this novel in high school, but I'm sorry to say I didn't laugh as much as I should have. But I've always been obsessed with the movie (come on, how can you not enjoy "Fitz Herberts...because THAT is his name?"), so I figured I should reread this fantastic book in my old age. I GET IT NOW. I couldn't stop laughing - between Bridget and her singleton status to her adorable way of handling embarrassing situations, I fell in love with her all over again.
32. Twilight of Avalon - Anna Elliott (Completed 10/6/10) - I picked up this book when I was in severe Tintagel withdrawal. So naturally, I devoured the book immediately. Anna Elliot has recreated the Tristan and Isolde tale by going the Mists of Avalon route and allowing the women of the story to talk. Isolde is a powerful healer who has to watch her Tintagel under siege, run a kingdom, deal with the fact that her father was a traitor and her grandmother a witch, watch her husband die, marry an abusive man, fall in love with Tristan, lose Tristan, and then stand trial for witchcraft. Once again, a story like this one proves that we don't give famous historical women enough credit.
33. The Unwritten, Volume 2 - Mike Carrey (Completed 10/10/10) - I read the first volume of Unwritten the same time I read the first volume of Chew. My eyes feasted on great graphic novels that week. What draws me to The Unwritten series is the story within a story within another story, while referencing great works of literature and maintaining a graphic novel format. Mike Carrey has made story for comic book geeks AND literary nerds. Now, we can live peacefully.
34. Don't Look Now and Other Stories - Daphne du Maurier (Completed 10/20/10) - Another Cornish goddess!!! I've been a fan of Daphne du Maurier's since Rebecca, but I didn't understand her contribution to Cornish literature until I spent time in Cornwall. I read this back when I returned stateside with a new appreciation for this author. This book is a collection of short stories, proving that you don't need to incorporate blood, murderers, and gruesome details to scare the living daylights out of your readers. Sometimes a ghost story will do. It was a great October read.
35. Bizenghast, Volume 1 - M. Alice LeGrow (Completed 10/23/10) - If you choose to read Bizenghast, my advice to you is to keep reading. Trust me, the story makes sense after the third volume. I'm not finished with the series myself, but Dinah's story still haunts me. Ghosts and mental illnesses I can handle. But setting a story in an abandoned New England town? Now, THAT'S creepy.
36. The Hunger Games - Suzanne Collins (Completed 10/31/10) - READ. THIS. NOW. As you can see, I read the entire series in a month. Enough said. Just make sure you have all three volumes at hand. You don't want to go running off in the middle of the night looking for the next volume. And read the books before the movies come out. You'll enjoy Katniss's story much more. But seriously, go read this now. I'll wait.
37. Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk - David Sedaris (Completed 11/2/10) - Oh, David Sedaris. How can you make a chorus of anal leeches singing German drinking songs out of a hippo's bumhole something I still laugh about? And then couple the book with heartbreaking stories that remind us that we're all human, even though you're portraying your characters as animals? Because you're a writing genius.
38. Catching Fire - Suzanne Collins (Completed 11/12/10) - Okay, why are you reading this? FINISH THE SERIES NOW!!!
39. Olympians: Athena, Grey-Eyed Goddess - George O'Connor (Completed 11/16/10) - My boyfriend and I met George O'Connor at a comic convention. He's a very cool guy, and I don't want to brag or anything, but he not only signed our copy of Athena, he also drew a picture of Medusa on the title page. What does this mean, you ask? That he's a nice guy, a talented artist and a great storyteller.
40. Mockingjay - Suzanne Collins (Completed 11/18/10) - Oh, you finished? How great was it? Did you cry at the part where ---? What about the ending when --? Don't you just hate ----? What about the part with Gale? What about Peeta? How sad is Haymitch? What about the scene with the cat? What did you think about Rue and the flowers? Don't you want to bake Mockingjay cookies? I'm so glad we can finally have this conversation.
32. Twilight of Avalon - Anna Elliott (Completed 10/6/10) - I picked up this book when I was in severe Tintagel withdrawal. So naturally, I devoured the book immediately. Anna Elliot has recreated the Tristan and Isolde tale by going the Mists of Avalon route and allowing the women of the story to talk. Isolde is a powerful healer who has to watch her Tintagel under siege, run a kingdom, deal with the fact that her father was a traitor and her grandmother a witch, watch her husband die, marry an abusive man, fall in love with Tristan, lose Tristan, and then stand trial for witchcraft. Once again, a story like this one proves that we don't give famous historical women enough credit.
33. The Unwritten, Volume 2 - Mike Carrey (Completed 10/10/10) - I read the first volume of Unwritten the same time I read the first volume of Chew. My eyes feasted on great graphic novels that week. What draws me to The Unwritten series is the story within a story within another story, while referencing great works of literature and maintaining a graphic novel format. Mike Carrey has made story for comic book geeks AND literary nerds. Now, we can live peacefully.
34. Don't Look Now and Other Stories - Daphne du Maurier (Completed 10/20/10) - Another Cornish goddess!!! I've been a fan of Daphne du Maurier's since Rebecca, but I didn't understand her contribution to Cornish literature until I spent time in Cornwall. I read this back when I returned stateside with a new appreciation for this author. This book is a collection of short stories, proving that you don't need to incorporate blood, murderers, and gruesome details to scare the living daylights out of your readers. Sometimes a ghost story will do. It was a great October read.
35. Bizenghast, Volume 1 - M. Alice LeGrow (Completed 10/23/10) - If you choose to read Bizenghast, my advice to you is to keep reading. Trust me, the story makes sense after the third volume. I'm not finished with the series myself, but Dinah's story still haunts me. Ghosts and mental illnesses I can handle. But setting a story in an abandoned New England town? Now, THAT'S creepy.
36. The Hunger Games - Suzanne Collins (Completed 10/31/10) - READ. THIS. NOW. As you can see, I read the entire series in a month. Enough said. Just make sure you have all three volumes at hand. You don't want to go running off in the middle of the night looking for the next volume. And read the books before the movies come out. You'll enjoy Katniss's story much more. But seriously, go read this now. I'll wait.
37. Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk - David Sedaris (Completed 11/2/10) - Oh, David Sedaris. How can you make a chorus of anal leeches singing German drinking songs out of a hippo's bumhole something I still laugh about? And then couple the book with heartbreaking stories that remind us that we're all human, even though you're portraying your characters as animals? Because you're a writing genius.
38. Catching Fire - Suzanne Collins (Completed 11/12/10) - Okay, why are you reading this? FINISH THE SERIES NOW!!!
39. Olympians: Athena, Grey-Eyed Goddess - George O'Connor (Completed 11/16/10) - My boyfriend and I met George O'Connor at a comic convention. He's a very cool guy, and I don't want to brag or anything, but he not only signed our copy of Athena, he also drew a picture of Medusa on the title page. What does this mean, you ask? That he's a nice guy, a talented artist and a great storyteller.
40. Mockingjay - Suzanne Collins (Completed 11/18/10) - Oh, you finished? How great was it? Did you cry at the part where ---? What about the ending when --? Don't you just hate ----? What about the part with Gale? What about Peeta? How sad is Haymitch? What about the scene with the cat? What did you think about Rue and the flowers? Don't you want to bake Mockingjay cookies? I'm so glad we can finally have this conversation.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Bookworm Goddess: My Yearly Reads #21-30
21. The Book of Liz by the Talent Family (Amy and David Sedaris) (Completed 7/30/10) - Yay for the Talent Family!!! This short gem is from David Sedaris (an extremely talented prose writer) and Amy Sedaris (an extremely hilarious actress). Since I'm a huge Sedaris fan (of both the David and Amy variety), I ran out to order the book, and then devoured it when I picked it up. Naturally, I laughed hysterically the entire time. Here's a riddle: What do nuns, sweating, and cheeseballs have in common? The Book of Liz, of course!
22. Goodbye, Chunky Rice - Craig Thompson (Completed 8/1/10) - Heartwarming and heartbreaking. Plus the artwork is well done. You'll never look at turtles the same way again.
23. Pure Drivel - Steve Martin (Completed 8/4/10) - If you haven't read a book by Steve Martin, do so this summer. Don't just watch his movies - you're doing yourself a disservice.
24. Wake - Lisa McMann (Completed 8/5/10) - The first of the Wake trilogy. This is a creative, fast-moving novel of a teenage girl who can get sucked into other people's dreams against her will. Yeah, it hooked me too. For once, it was nice to read a YA novel NOT about vampires and forbidden love.
25. Serenity Rose, Volume 2: Goodbye, Crestfallen! - Aaron Alexovich (Completed 8/7/10) - Serenity Rose's story comes to an end with this volume. I think. To tell you the truth, I didn't look to see if another volume exists. But this volume was more interesting than the first - Serenity finds herself under the care of her idol, a famous punk rocker/witch. Aside from the main part of this tory, the relationship Serenity has with her best friend is hilarious. I'm glad the author decided to spend more time with them.
26. Fade - Lisa McMann (Completed 8/10/10) - Book 2 of the series. This time, young protagonist Janie faces something stronger than her dream problem...interested? Definitely read the series.
27. 110 Perc - Tony Consiglio (Completed 8/13/10) - Boy Bands? Yes, please! This is a great graphic novel about a group of middle-aged women who are obsessed with an NSYNC-like band. As a (former and current) fan of boy bands, this was a great read.
28. The Expected One - Kathleen McGowan (Completed 9/3/10) - Kathleen McGowan is a wonderful writer. Between the story she crafts (which is some story) and the research she puts into her novels, I can't get enough of her series. This is Book One of the series; think about how great it would be if the DaVinci Code had been written by a woman, had more historical credentials AND spent more time on the Mary Magdalene part of the story. Thanks to McGowan, you don't have to just think about it. You can read it.
29. Good Omens - Terry Prachett and Neil Gaiman (Completed 9/4/10) - Yay for Neil Gaiman! Combine the two greatest fantasy writers, add one story about the end of the world and a conflict between good and evil (plus a missing Antichrist), let simmer...and you have a crazy, WTF-just-happened read. Initially I read this for a book club. Unfortunately, the book club didn't take off, but at least I read a wonderful book.
30. Box Office Poison - Alex Robinson (Completed 9/17/10) - I'm very torn about this graphic novel. It's very long - which isn't the problem - and there are many characters (both flawed and perfected) to choose from. However, I think I'm missing something. Perhaps I should read it again? Once again, my boyfriend loves this book. I think he's going to stop recommending books for me soon...
22. Goodbye, Chunky Rice - Craig Thompson (Completed 8/1/10) - Heartwarming and heartbreaking. Plus the artwork is well done. You'll never look at turtles the same way again.
23. Pure Drivel - Steve Martin (Completed 8/4/10) - If you haven't read a book by Steve Martin, do so this summer. Don't just watch his movies - you're doing yourself a disservice.
24. Wake - Lisa McMann (Completed 8/5/10) - The first of the Wake trilogy. This is a creative, fast-moving novel of a teenage girl who can get sucked into other people's dreams against her will. Yeah, it hooked me too. For once, it was nice to read a YA novel NOT about vampires and forbidden love.
25. Serenity Rose, Volume 2: Goodbye, Crestfallen! - Aaron Alexovich (Completed 8/7/10) - Serenity Rose's story comes to an end with this volume. I think. To tell you the truth, I didn't look to see if another volume exists. But this volume was more interesting than the first - Serenity finds herself under the care of her idol, a famous punk rocker/witch. Aside from the main part of this tory, the relationship Serenity has with her best friend is hilarious. I'm glad the author decided to spend more time with them.
26. Fade - Lisa McMann (Completed 8/10/10) - Book 2 of the series. This time, young protagonist Janie faces something stronger than her dream problem...interested? Definitely read the series.
27. 110 Perc - Tony Consiglio (Completed 8/13/10) - Boy Bands? Yes, please! This is a great graphic novel about a group of middle-aged women who are obsessed with an NSYNC-like band. As a (former and current) fan of boy bands, this was a great read.
28. The Expected One - Kathleen McGowan (Completed 9/3/10) - Kathleen McGowan is a wonderful writer. Between the story she crafts (which is some story) and the research she puts into her novels, I can't get enough of her series. This is Book One of the series; think about how great it would be if the DaVinci Code had been written by a woman, had more historical credentials AND spent more time on the Mary Magdalene part of the story. Thanks to McGowan, you don't have to just think about it. You can read it.
29. Good Omens - Terry Prachett and Neil Gaiman (Completed 9/4/10) - Yay for Neil Gaiman! Combine the two greatest fantasy writers, add one story about the end of the world and a conflict between good and evil (plus a missing Antichrist), let simmer...and you have a crazy, WTF-just-happened read. Initially I read this for a book club. Unfortunately, the book club didn't take off, but at least I read a wonderful book.
30. Box Office Poison - Alex Robinson (Completed 9/17/10) - I'm very torn about this graphic novel. It's very long - which isn't the problem - and there are many characters (both flawed and perfected) to choose from. However, I think I'm missing something. Perhaps I should read it again? Once again, my boyfriend loves this book. I think he's going to stop recommending books for me soon...
Friday, May 27, 2011
Bookworm Goddess: My Yearly Reads #11-20
11. Nightmares and Fairy Tales #2: Beautiful Beasts - Serena Valentino (Completed 6/18/10) - Again, another great graphic novel told from the eyes of a tragic character: a ragdoll named Annabelle who watches her little girls grow up - sometimes with horrible consequences.
12. Looking for Alaska - John Green (Completed 6/18/10) - AMAZING young adult novel. What begins as a YA utopia quickly falls into a heartbreaking story. Highly recommended for book clubs.
13. Nightmares and Fairy Tales #3: 1140 Rue Royale - Serena Valentino (Completed 6/21/10)
14. Nightmares and Fairy Tales #4: Dancing with the Ghosts of Whales - Serena Valentino (Completed 6/22/10) - Annabelle's story comes to an end with this volume. I miss her.
15. American Nerd - Benjamin Nugent (Completed 6/27/10) - This book was praised as an ethnographic work of art. Honey, I know ethnography and this was not it. But it does provide an interesting look into the words "nerd," "geek," and "dweeb." Once you read it, you know which one to claim for your own (I'm going with "geek.")
16. Chew, Volume 2: International Flavor - John Layman (Completed 6/29/10) - Do me a favor (actually, you're doing yourself a favor) and go buy this volume and volume one. Then read it and thank your lucky stars that such talented graphic novelists exist in this world (besides Adam Wilson, of course).
17. Ruby - Francesca Lia Block (Completed 7/11/10) - My intense, undying love for Francesca Lia Block began in high school. It continues into my adulthood as I read this novel on a train to London. This is a story of forgiveness, humiliation, resilience, and love. Oh yeah, and it's all written down by one of the greatest contemporary writers in America. Enough said.
18. The Magicians - Lev Grossman (Completed 7/12/10) - I hate to say this about any book, but I did not enjoy this novel. I read this one in Cornwall, thinking it would be a good idea because it takes place in Cornwall. Yeah, for two seconds. But that wasn't the problem. The problems were main characters that I despised, a disorganized story about magic, and the annoying references to Harry Potter and Narnia. I know that imitation is the greatest form of flattery...but don't hate on the ones that made history before you. Make it your own! One good thing to come out of this book - it inspired me to ask for a Nook for my birthday so I wouldn't waste $25 on a novel ever again. I'm sorry, Magicians. If it helps, I did read all of it before coming to this decision.
19. To Die For: the True Story of a Broken Childhood - Carol Lee (Completed 7/14/10) - I read this while I waited for a sleeping toddler (not mine, but a dear friend's)to wake up from his nap. It had been on the bookshelf in the Cornish cottage and Bed and Breakfast I had stayed in. A story about an aunt's desperate attempt to "cure" her niece of anorexia left me in tears. I've never heard of this woman, but that Cornish bookshelf and I were lucky to have her.
20. It's a Good Life, If You Don't Weaken: a picture-novella - Seth (Completed 7/29/10) - There is only one emo Seth in my life (and he lives in Orange County with his parents Sandy and Kirsten), and it was not this author. The artwork in this graphic novel is well-done. But the attempt at the Bildungsroman brings an insincere note to the work. If you want honesty, don't talk down to your readers. We don't like it. My boyfriend enjoyed this book, so I hated to tell him I didn't like it. But like T.J. Hooker, I must say what's on my mind (and if you don't get that reference, shame on all of you), and if he is reading this: I tried, but I still do not like this book.
12. Looking for Alaska - John Green (Completed 6/18/10) - AMAZING young adult novel. What begins as a YA utopia quickly falls into a heartbreaking story. Highly recommended for book clubs.
13. Nightmares and Fairy Tales #3: 1140 Rue Royale - Serena Valentino (Completed 6/21/10)
14. Nightmares and Fairy Tales #4: Dancing with the Ghosts of Whales - Serena Valentino (Completed 6/22/10) - Annabelle's story comes to an end with this volume. I miss her.
15. American Nerd - Benjamin Nugent (Completed 6/27/10) - This book was praised as an ethnographic work of art. Honey, I know ethnography and this was not it. But it does provide an interesting look into the words "nerd," "geek," and "dweeb." Once you read it, you know which one to claim for your own (I'm going with "geek.")
16. Chew, Volume 2: International Flavor - John Layman (Completed 6/29/10) - Do me a favor (actually, you're doing yourself a favor) and go buy this volume and volume one. Then read it and thank your lucky stars that such talented graphic novelists exist in this world (besides Adam Wilson, of course).
17. Ruby - Francesca Lia Block (Completed 7/11/10) - My intense, undying love for Francesca Lia Block began in high school. It continues into my adulthood as I read this novel on a train to London. This is a story of forgiveness, humiliation, resilience, and love. Oh yeah, and it's all written down by one of the greatest contemporary writers in America. Enough said.
18. The Magicians - Lev Grossman (Completed 7/12/10) - I hate to say this about any book, but I did not enjoy this novel. I read this one in Cornwall, thinking it would be a good idea because it takes place in Cornwall. Yeah, for two seconds. But that wasn't the problem. The problems were main characters that I despised, a disorganized story about magic, and the annoying references to Harry Potter and Narnia. I know that imitation is the greatest form of flattery...but don't hate on the ones that made history before you. Make it your own! One good thing to come out of this book - it inspired me to ask for a Nook for my birthday so I wouldn't waste $25 on a novel ever again. I'm sorry, Magicians. If it helps, I did read all of it before coming to this decision.
19. To Die For: the True Story of a Broken Childhood - Carol Lee (Completed 7/14/10) - I read this while I waited for a sleeping toddler (not mine, but a dear friend's)to wake up from his nap. It had been on the bookshelf in the Cornish cottage and Bed and Breakfast I had stayed in. A story about an aunt's desperate attempt to "cure" her niece of anorexia left me in tears. I've never heard of this woman, but that Cornish bookshelf and I were lucky to have her.
20. It's a Good Life, If You Don't Weaken: a picture-novella - Seth (Completed 7/29/10) - There is only one emo Seth in my life (and he lives in Orange County with his parents Sandy and Kirsten), and it was not this author. The artwork in this graphic novel is well-done. But the attempt at the Bildungsroman brings an insincere note to the work. If you want honesty, don't talk down to your readers. We don't like it. My boyfriend enjoyed this book, so I hated to tell him I didn't like it. But like T.J. Hooker, I must say what's on my mind (and if you don't get that reference, shame on all of you), and if he is reading this: I tried, but I still do not like this book.
Bookworm Goddess: My Yearly Reads #1-10
This is a fun idea. As a college professor and a writer, my job is to read as much as I work. It isn't BS when I tell my students that reading opens doors. Literally and figuratively. The more you read, the more you know. You become a better writer, you understand the world a bit better...we should all read, all the time, as much as we can. I thought it would be fun when I finished graduate school to see how many books I can read in a year. The first year - well, I almost made 50. Almost. I think it was too soon after grad school and my brain melted. Anyway, this is "take two" of the yearly reading list. I figured since it's summer, you might find a book or two for your summer reading list. Enjoy and Happy Reading!
Start Date: May, 10, 2010
End Date: May, 10, 2011
1. Angelology - Danielle Trussoni (Completed 5/25/10) - Words cannot describe how much I loved this book. This is a fantastic, elegantly written story. Don't be intimidated by the length; it is worth the read. Now, I hold every novel I finish to this book's standard.
2. If You can Read This: the Philosophy of Bumper Stickers - Jack Bowen (Completed 5/26/10) - Superfun, very informative, and a great read. Take your time, especially if you're like me and you only took two philosophy courses in college. It is definitely worth the read. You'll never look at bumper stickers - and the people who choose them - the same way again.
3. Nightmares and Fairy Tales #1: Once Upon a Time - Serena Valentino (Completed 5/31/10) - Great graphic novel. Serena Valentino is a great writer who manages to take Francesca Lia Block's magical realism and put it into comic form.
4. Bayou - Jeremy Love (Completed 6/1/10) - My heart is broken because I'm not sure there is going to be a second volume. Read this anyway; even if you get a broken heart like me, it is still worth your time. 'Tis better to have loved...oh, you get the the idea.
5. Darkly Dreaming Dexter - Jeff Lindsay (Completed 6/1/10) - I'm obsessed with the TV show and I'm obsessed with the series. Both are great because they are so drastically different - you get two different stories. Did you hear me? You get TWO DEXTERS. Can you think of anything better?
6. Serenity Rose, Volume 1: Working Through the Negativity - Aaron A (Completed 6/2/10) - This was hard to get through, but once you start reading it gets more interesting. Serenity Rose is the typically emo kid/witch.
7. The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane - Katherine Howe (Completed 6/8/10) - I enjoyed this book until I reached the ending. It starts out like a book up my alley: Young PhD student uncovers family secret and huge piece of the Salem Witch Trials...until the end when the protagonist did something I'm not sure fit with her character. It lost me, unfortunately. Read it - you'll see what I mean.
8. Marvel 1602 - Neil Gaiman (Completed 6/13/10) - Gaiman is my hero. Honestly, the man could write about a toaster and it would win an award. Even if you don't read Marvel comic books, this is still a great look at American icons through the eyes of a British writer (who lives in America) writing about a significant year in America and Britain's histories.
9. The Boy Who Couldn't Sleep and Never Had to - DC Pierson (Completed 6/14/10) - Hmmm..how do I feel about this book? I am so torn. I couldn't get into it...and then the ending floored me. Does that mean I like it? So confused...too many emotions...
10. Mermaids on the Moon - Elizabeth Stuckey-French (Completed 6/16/10) - This is a fun cinnabon, sticky sweet, very dark story. It's a cinnabon wrapped in anti-depressants. Yum.
Start Date: May, 10, 2010
End Date: May, 10, 2011
1. Angelology - Danielle Trussoni (Completed 5/25/10) - Words cannot describe how much I loved this book. This is a fantastic, elegantly written story. Don't be intimidated by the length; it is worth the read. Now, I hold every novel I finish to this book's standard.
2. If You can Read This: the Philosophy of Bumper Stickers - Jack Bowen (Completed 5/26/10) - Superfun, very informative, and a great read. Take your time, especially if you're like me and you only took two philosophy courses in college. It is definitely worth the read. You'll never look at bumper stickers - and the people who choose them - the same way again.
3. Nightmares and Fairy Tales #1: Once Upon a Time - Serena Valentino (Completed 5/31/10) - Great graphic novel. Serena Valentino is a great writer who manages to take Francesca Lia Block's magical realism and put it into comic form.
4. Bayou - Jeremy Love (Completed 6/1/10) - My heart is broken because I'm not sure there is going to be a second volume. Read this anyway; even if you get a broken heart like me, it is still worth your time. 'Tis better to have loved...oh, you get the the idea.
5. Darkly Dreaming Dexter - Jeff Lindsay (Completed 6/1/10) - I'm obsessed with the TV show and I'm obsessed with the series. Both are great because they are so drastically different - you get two different stories. Did you hear me? You get TWO DEXTERS. Can you think of anything better?
6. Serenity Rose, Volume 1: Working Through the Negativity - Aaron A (Completed 6/2/10) - This was hard to get through, but once you start reading it gets more interesting. Serenity Rose is the typically emo kid/witch.
7. The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane - Katherine Howe (Completed 6/8/10) - I enjoyed this book until I reached the ending. It starts out like a book up my alley: Young PhD student uncovers family secret and huge piece of the Salem Witch Trials...until the end when the protagonist did something I'm not sure fit with her character. It lost me, unfortunately. Read it - you'll see what I mean.
8. Marvel 1602 - Neil Gaiman (Completed 6/13/10) - Gaiman is my hero. Honestly, the man could write about a toaster and it would win an award. Even if you don't read Marvel comic books, this is still a great look at American icons through the eyes of a British writer (who lives in America) writing about a significant year in America and Britain's histories.
9. The Boy Who Couldn't Sleep and Never Had to - DC Pierson (Completed 6/14/10) - Hmmm..how do I feel about this book? I am so torn. I couldn't get into it...and then the ending floored me. Does that mean I like it? So confused...too many emotions...
10. Mermaids on the Moon - Elizabeth Stuckey-French (Completed 6/16/10) - This is a fun cinnabon, sticky sweet, very dark story. It's a cinnabon wrapped in anti-depressants. Yum.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Finding my Inner Peace...In a Starbucks
Ahhhh...after my week (still not completed) of epic proportions that even Odysseus would pity me, I find myself at the Starbucks, searching for my Nirvana. I've found it, tucked away near the bar with an iced grande no classic green tea and the glorious invention known as the Starbucks Digital Network.
I am at peace, babies.
It is quite surprising to see so many people with laptops hanging out at Starbucks nowadays. I understand the company's idea - and our dire need - to create a "third space," which is that middle ground between home and work. In my case, Starbucks has always been my "fourth space" - that middle ground between home, work, and school. And it has served me well over the years.
I needed it in college when I had finals and issues with my friends. I needed it during my "9-5" fiasco I called a job to keep me from bursting into tears around the 3pm slump. And I need it now as I embark on this transitional period where I feel more like the protagonist from The Stranger and less like the whimsical, always optimistic Don Quixote.
Does Starbucks make me smarter? Or does it have the same effect as a drunk acting maudlin in their favorite pub? The world may never know.
My brief absence has been punctuated by moments of no time to myself. I'm getting worried, as I'm not sure where I take any of my goals, since they are all in some half-baked stage that never made it to fruition. In addition, I'm the only one who seems to care if they make it past that half-baked stage. I suppose the next step is to walk blindly toward one of the paths ahead of me and hope it is the right choice. Is that what I'm supposed to do?
I just realized I'm typing my thoughts on a laptop in a Starbucks. Good Lord, I've become THAT guy. Most distressing. I keep thinking of that Family Guy scene with the "screenwriters." Good Lord, I'm referencing Family Guy. I am becoming a maudlin drunk.
So I raise my iced grande no classic green tea to you, babies. May our summer be productive and our fall show the harvest we've worked toward. I wish you luck on your journey during these sun-kissed (and rainy) days that lie ahead of us.
Because I care for this cause so much, I will sign off NOW and then write a few entries so I can post everyday. Or at least every other day. This random posting is getting on my nerves.
Until then, I am continually yours.
(Postscript: I just ran the spellcheck and I've spelled eveything correctly. Starbucks DOES make me smarter).
I am at peace, babies.
It is quite surprising to see so many people with laptops hanging out at Starbucks nowadays. I understand the company's idea - and our dire need - to create a "third space," which is that middle ground between home and work. In my case, Starbucks has always been my "fourth space" - that middle ground between home, work, and school. And it has served me well over the years.
I needed it in college when I had finals and issues with my friends. I needed it during my "9-5" fiasco I called a job to keep me from bursting into tears around the 3pm slump. And I need it now as I embark on this transitional period where I feel more like the protagonist from The Stranger and less like the whimsical, always optimistic Don Quixote.
Does Starbucks make me smarter? Or does it have the same effect as a drunk acting maudlin in their favorite pub? The world may never know.
My brief absence has been punctuated by moments of no time to myself. I'm getting worried, as I'm not sure where I take any of my goals, since they are all in some half-baked stage that never made it to fruition. In addition, I'm the only one who seems to care if they make it past that half-baked stage. I suppose the next step is to walk blindly toward one of the paths ahead of me and hope it is the right choice. Is that what I'm supposed to do?
I just realized I'm typing my thoughts on a laptop in a Starbucks. Good Lord, I've become THAT guy. Most distressing. I keep thinking of that Family Guy scene with the "screenwriters." Good Lord, I'm referencing Family Guy. I am becoming a maudlin drunk.
So I raise my iced grande no classic green tea to you, babies. May our summer be productive and our fall show the harvest we've worked toward. I wish you luck on your journey during these sun-kissed (and rainy) days that lie ahead of us.
Because I care for this cause so much, I will sign off NOW and then write a few entries so I can post everyday. Or at least every other day. This random posting is getting on my nerves.
Until then, I am continually yours.
(Postscript: I just ran the spellcheck and I've spelled eveything correctly. Starbucks DOES make me smarter).
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