The Best Reader:
novel

1. Everlasting was your debut novel. What has been the most surprising part of the process from writing to promotion?
The most surprising part was discovering just how much marketing the authors must do themselves. My expectations were so far above the reality, so with my next few books I feel I much better prepared to be my own advocate.

2. You have done a lot of historical research in the past. What was the most fascinating thing you learned during that experience?
So many amazing tidbits captured my imagination. When researching, it’s a risk that I’ll stumble onto something that will distract me and make me want to write a new book! For Everlasting, I loved learning about sailing and a sailors life at sea. The superstitions, the work sailors were expected to do, the risks and the dangers of the ocean. All very fascinating!

3. If you could go back in time, what time period would you like to visit, and why?
Regency England would be my first stop, and the next would be Civil War era America. Someone better invent a time machine, pronto.

4. Your next book, The Midnight Tunnel: A Suzanne Snow Mystery, is set to be released next March. Can you tell us about this story?
Zanna is an 11-year-old girl who lives at the grand hotel her parents manage in New Brunswick, Canada. All she wants is to be a detective like her famous uncle, Bruce Snow. When a young guest goes missing and her uncle writes off the case as unsolvable, Zanna sets out to prove him wrong. I’m really excited about this new mystery series! It’s a fun one.

5. What other things do you have in the works right now?
Other than a few more Suzanna books and a possible third Everlasting novel, I am concentrating on a new historical paranormal YA. All I can say is Paris, 1899, and gargoyles. I’m still figuring it out!

Everlasting by Angie Frazier Publisher: Scholastic Press (June 1st, 2010) Reading Level: Young Adult Hardcover: 336 pages Sailing aboard her father’s trade ship is all seventeen-year-old Camille Rowen has ever wanted. But as a girl of society in 1855 San Francisco, her future is set: marry a man she doesn’t love, or condemn herself and her father to poverty.

On her final voyage before the wedding, the stormy arms of the Tasman Sea claim her father, and a terrible family secret is revealed. A secret intertwined with a fabled map, the mother Camille has long believed dead, and an ancient stone that wields a dangerous—and alluring—magic.

The only person Camille can depend on is Oscar, a handsome young sailor whom she is undeniably drawn to. Torn between trusting her instincts and keeping her promises to her father, Camille embarks on a perilous quest into the Australian wilderness to find the enchanted stone. As she and Oscar elude murderous bushrangers and unravel Camille’s father’s lies, they come closer to making the ultimate decision of who—and what—matters most.

Beautifully written and feverishly paced, Everlasting is an unforgettable journey of passion, secrecy, and adventure.

Find Angie Frazier Angie Frazier / Blog / Twitter / Goodreads

Purchase Everlasting Amazon / Barnes & Noble / The Book Depository

"It was fun to read about a character (Forrester) who wasn't afraid to be intelligent." — Miss Remmers

From Amazon.com...

"The only tie-in to the Columbia Pictures film starring Sean Connery, directed by Gus Van Sant (Good Will Hunting) — an inspiring story about the unlikely friendship between a famous, reclusive novelist and an amazingly gifted teen who secretly yearns to be a writer. Set in Manhattan and the South Bronx, William Forrester (Connery), a Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist who has not been heard from for four decades, accidentally discovers that Jamal, a brash 16-year-old African-American who plays basketball on the court below his window, keeps a secret journal that shows a real gift for writing. Forrester takes Jamal on as a protege, and the friendship challenges and changes the two of them forever. "

Why I read this: Next semester we will be reading "Finding Forrester" throughout the school during T.E.A.M time (TEAM will be replacing DEAR). The English teachers had to create lessons to go along with book for each 20 minute period.

Plot: While I didn't get too excited about the plot of this novel, it was intriguing — I mean who wouldn't want to meet and befriend a famous Great American Author? There were some great metaphors in this novel about working hard, being true to yourself, but especially in regards to being a scholar and academic, not being afraid to be intelligent. I think our students will relate to these themes of the novel.

Characters: The characters were likable, but because there have been so many movies/books out there about the boy who decides to "be different and work hard" (Step Up), it was hard to stay focused when the author tried to convey to the readers how isolated Jamal had become from his friends. His mom and his teacher, I adored — but again, we've seen so many characters like them throughout film and literature. Forrester was a rare character, one that was read so bitter and intelligent — I've obviously seen movies with characters like that, but I don't think I've found a character in a book that has been so raw and honest in that aspect.

Cover: Mediocre. Didn't draw me to it but didn't push me away. If I were the publishing company I'd want Sean Connery's face on the book too.

Random Thoughts: Unlike most books/movies, this book was written after the movie. So throughout the book all I could think of was Sean Connery's (can we say?) delicious accent.

Final Thoughts: Overall this was an okay book that was a light, fast read. It was fun to read about being scholarly and intelligent — I hope my students can pick those hints out of the book. But as for me personally, it was a bit generic. I'm looking forward to watching the movie to see it in the medium where it was originally meant to be seen.

Originality: 10/10
Ending: 9/10
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 7/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 5/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 6/10
Overall: 86/100 B

To the FTC, with love: School Book

It's that time of year, Twitter and my GR is buzzing with the excitement of another year gone and another year here. With all the upcoming Reading Challenges and Goals for the new year, I can't help but feel motivated and ready (whether my classroom is or isn't is another question). Yesterday I looked at all the books I read and came up with my top ten favorites. Feeling a little extra motivated I even made a video — beware: it is my first video, and while I'm extremely proud of it, it isn't perfect.

Books mentioned:

10. Shade by Jeri Smith-Ready
9. Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
8. Hush Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
7. Beastly by Alex Flinn
6. Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver
5. Matched by Allie Condie
4. I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore
3. Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher
2. Some Girls Are by Courtney Summers
1. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Colli ns

After making that list I still felt like something was missing, like that list alone didn't sum up 2010. I continued to think about it this morning and then it hit me: it isn't always the books that mean the most, sometimes it's the authors. I read 65 books in 2010 and the above are my favorite reads, but what about my favorite authors? The authors who were crazy kind, excited to talk to me, and who were full enthusiasm?

Here are my top authors of 2010:

• Lauren Oliver — Besides being an awesome writer, you were so approachable at BEA and I was so impressed when you remembered my name when you say me randomly walking around!
• Shannon Delany — You single-handedly were the reason Sheila and I made it to the Author Event at BEA where I met so many great women! You were so friendly, understanding, and patient with my back and forth Twittering to find where you all were. I so appreciate everything you did and can't wait for your second book.
• Courtney Summers — Your books never cease to amaze me, but I'll never forget your Author Interview with my struggling readers (and they never will either). You really demonstrated to my students that authors are people too — no matter how famous! Thank you!
• Denise Jaden — Girl, "Losing Faith" rocked my socks off but you are just as outstanding (if not more!). You have such an outreach to readers and bloggers, I am so impressed!
• Violet Haberdasher — I loved "Knightley Academy" and the main reason I bought it at BEA was because of how approachable you are! You were so friendly and excited to be at the NYC library! I can't wait for book two!
• Simone Elkeles — I haven't even read one of your books (yet), although I do have all of them on my bookshelves and in my classroom. Your books are books that I don't have to pitch to students — they pick them up, love the cover, love the synopsis, and come to me later saying "I loved this novel! Give me another one like it!" At BEA you were so friendly and even joked about me actually being a teacher because of my size (true story, my students think the same thing!). You gave me two signed posters and they were the first posters up in my classroom. My students can't believe I met you! Thank you so much for giving a first year teacher some credibility!
• Shari Maurer — I still need to read your book (I know, I'm behind), but I love your enthusiasm for reading and for struggling readers! I will never forget at BEA how willing you were to talk to me about my students (and I hadn't even met them yet!). Thanks!
• Karen Essex — I read a review of "Dracula in Love" on a blog and commented that I really wanted to read your novel but had gone to BN and it was $25, within a half an hour later you had emailed me and asked if I'd like a copy for review. It was one of those moments that my students said, "That didn't just happen, did it?" And it did. Thank you for being so awesome!
• Simmone Howell — My first Australian author! I am so excited to read your books in the near future! Your enthusiasm for reading and for students means a lot to me!

“It isn't okay to write "smutty" for "smutty's" sake, it is okay to write a little bit racy and still deliver a good story, a story with characters that students can relate to — Shaun Hutchinson did this with 'The Deathday Letter." — Miss Remmers
The clock is ticking... Ollie can't be bothered to care about anything but girls until he gets his Deathday Letter and learns he's going to die in twenty-four hours. Bummer.
Ollie does what he does best: nothing. Then his best friend convinces him to live a little, and go after Ronnie, the girl who recently trampled his about-to-expire heart. Ollie turns to carloads of pudding and over-the-top declarations, but even playing the death card doesn't work. All he wants is to set things right with the girl of his dreams. It's now or never...
Why I read this: The cover really appealed to me. I don't think I even read the (awesome) synopsis until I actually sat down to read it months after receiving it.
Plot: The plot of this novel is definitely one of a kind. The easiest way to describe it is simply saying that the story is set in an alternate reality, one much like our own except 24 hours before you die you receive a mysterious Deathday letter. This it the situation Ollie is faced with — what does he do with the last 24 hours of his life. Even before the first page I was sucked into this novel as a result of the brief prologue (although I don't think prologue is the best word). I found this book to be a complete page turner — a book I read in one sitting.
Characters: The characters of this novel, especially Ollie, are so honest and real. The tone of this novel, because of the strong characters, was fantastic — very much like the tone of "The Duff. " Together, the tone and the characters, made this novel. Ollie thinks, acts, and speaks like a teenager; in the beginning I thought that no one really acted/thought like that... but after consulting the fiance, it turns out that most teenage boys' brains are occupied by two things: sex and girls. Beware: I have never heard of or read so many inappropriate jokes in my life — but this is precisely why my struggling male readers will love this novel: it was written for them.
Cover: Absolutely ADORE!
Random Thoughts: I loved Ollie's Grandma! For such a small character she was developed extremely well.
Final Thoughts: While filled with sex jokes and inappropriate insinuations, this book will be PERFECT for my male students. It's racy enough to be "rebellious" but has a great enough story and, dare I say, moral to be appropriate for school. My girls loved "The Duff" because it was real and honest and my boys will love "The Deathday Letter" for the same reasons. Both of these novels are could be "border-line" school appropriate, but this is due to the honesty and relatablity of the novels. I'm lucky to have such a great school librarian and administration who would put these books on the shelves even if I didn't ask. The question is this: would you rather have loads of books on the shelves that students don't read because they can't relate to the characters and the characters don't sound like them or are you willing to take a risk on a novel that, depending on the school or community, is "questionable" but that the students will devour and still receive a good story? It isn't okay to write "smutty" for "smutty's" sake, it is okay to write a little bit racy and still deliver a good story, a story with characters that students can relate to — Shaun Hutchinson did this with "The Deathday Letter."
*Before reading "The Duff" and "The Deathday Letter" both books were already on our school library's shelves.
Originality: 10/10 Ending: 10/10 Characters: 8/10 Plot: 9/10 My reaction/enjoyment: 9/10 Theme: 9/10 Imagery: 9/10 Setting: 5/5 Voice: 5/5 (AMAZING sense of voice) Style: 5/5 Tone: 5/5 (Tone was absolutely fantastic!) Cover: 10/10 Overall: 94/100 A
To the FTC, with love: Gift

I know, I know, I'm about a day and a half late to this party. But really, I've been keeping super busy! The TV hasn't been on ALL day (but I haven't opened a book all day either). I've spent my day looking up Reading Challenges for the new year, I wrote a huge wrap up post (for all the months I forgot about), I took down the Christmas decorations and put the boxes in the trunk (despite the massive amount of ice outside), I've finally organized my bookshelves, I wrote a review, I've read through my Reader (several times), etc. I swear, I'm really trying here people.

But with this winter storm (it rained all morning/afternoon, then the temp dropped to -10 so we have sheets of ice EVERYWHERE), D won't be making it home from work. He works as a nurse in a neighboring town (9 miles) and works 12 hour shifts four days in a row this week. So, for the first time since we've moved in together, I'm here alone. And I'm sick of cleaning.

So I'm joining this party with hopes of finishing three novels before tomorrow night:

• Knightley Academy (I'm halfway through) (216 pages)
• Delirium (441 pages)
• Crescendo (427 pages)

I'd like to welcome Sandy, from Pirate Penguin's Reads, as this week's Guest Reviewer!

*********************

From Amazon.com...

"For Nora Grey, romance was not part of the plan. She's never been particularly attracted to the boys at her school, no matter how much her best friend, Vee, pushes them at her. Not until Patch came along.
With his easy smile and eyes that seem to see inside her, Nora is drawn to him against her better judgment. But after a series of terrifying encounters, Nora's not sure who to trust. Patch seems to be everywhere she is, and to know more about her than her closest friends. She can't decide whether she should fall into his arms or run and hide. And when she tries to seek some answers, she finds herself near a truth that is way more unsettling than anything Patch makes her feel. For Nora is right in the middle of an ancient battle between the immortal and those that have fallen — and, when it comes to choosing sides, the wrong choice will cost her life."
When I received Hush Hush in the mail, I was ecstatic! I've only heard good things about this book and once I read the excerpts on Simon & Schuster, I knew that I had to read this book.

I'm happy to say that I was not disappointed. Hush Hush delivers the enticing story of Nora Grey, a no-nonsense sophomore who gets paired up in biology class with Patch, the mysterious and arrogant bad boy that we all hate (and love... even if we don't want to admit it). With his dark eyes and mocking smile, Patch both thrills and terrifies Nora... unwilling to let him affect her, Nora tries to counteract her growing attraction by everything she can to stay away from him. But Nora can't push Patch out of her thoughts because after meeting him, scary things start happening and Nora can't shake off the feeling of someone's eyes watching her every move. Her paranoia increases when she realizes that whenever something bad happens, Patch has the habit of always being there, waiting for her with a mischievous smirk. Despite her better judgment, Nora finds herself falling for Patch... but soon discovers that Patch's secrets are darker and graver than she ever imagined-and that now she plays a part in his dangerous game.

I loved Hush Hush. I couldn't put it down, not for a second! I enjoyed watching Nora verbally spar with Patch; he was probably the most maddening, evil, infuriatingly conceited character I've ever come across. But that didn't stop me (or Nora) from finding him quite alluring... I understood why Nora wanted to simultaneously smack him in the face while wanting to fall into his arms; you can't help but like Patch, despite his roguish ways. His unpredictability was what kept me turning the pages... As for Nora, I found her to be a great character and it was funny to see how Patch affected her. She went from cool and collected to hot and bothered the moment Patch entered the room! Their attraction was sizzling, and Patch just made it scorching.
So if you're looking for a dark, edgy romance with shots of mystery in between, Hush Hush is the book for you! I'd definitely recommend this novel to anyone who wants to get their pulse racing, whether it be from fear or swooning. Patch will make sure of that for you.

****************** Sandy, thank you so much for such an awesome review! Please visit Sandy at Pirate Penguin's Reads and share some book love! Please view her original review as well!

I've decided to join the Bookish Ardour's Dystopia Reading Challenge! From January 1st to December 31st, 2011 I hope to read the following 15 Dystopian novels to qualify for the Contagion Level (15 books). There is an extra book, just in case I can't put the genre down. I really want to thank There's A Book for recommending this challenge to me! I am SO excited to get started!

1. Outside In
2. Inside Out
3. Across the Universe
4. Delirium
5. Enclave
6. Bumped
7. Wither
8. The Giver
9. The Adoration of Jenna Fox
10. Ashfall
11. The Pledge
12. Pandemonium
13. The Maze Runner
14. Crossed

It is the almost the New Year and I am on a kick; I am attempting to "declutter" my life of all its' excess. After decluttering my clothes and movies I may or may not have decluttered my book shelves (it's addicting okay!). I have the following books to trade. If you're interested in a trade please email me (google at gmail dot com)! I'd love any kind of YA novel. Unfortunately at this time — only open to US addresses.

"Between the Kingdoms" — Joe Boyd
"Love's Shadows" — Ada Leverson
"The Brontes Went to Woolworths" — Rachel Ferguson
"The Lumby Lines" — Gail Fraser
"The Overnight Socialite" — Bridie Clark
"Noah's Castle" — John Rowe Townsend
"O, Juliet" — Robin Maxwell
"Women are Crazy, Men are Stupid" — Howard J. Morris, Jenny Lee
"The Last Goodnights" — John West
"The Tall Pine Polka" — Lorna Landvik
"Manhood for Amateurs" — Michael Chabon
"Gifted: Finders Keepers" — Marilyn Kaye
"Gifted: Here Today, Gone Tomorrow" — Marilyn Kaye
"Gifted: Better Late Than Never" — Marilyn Kaye
"Dracula in Love" — Karen Essex
"The Lost Dog" — Michelle de Kretser
"Under the Black Ensign" — L. Ron Hubbard
"Under the Black Ensign" — L. Ron Hubbard (audio)

ARCs
"Girl in Translation" — Jean Kwok
"Russian Winter" — Daphne Kalotay
"The Things a Brother Knows" — Dana Reinhardt
"Up From the Blue" — Susan Henderson
"The Saga of Larten Crepsley: Birth of a Killer" — Darren Shan
"Revolution" — Jennifer Donnelly
"Thief Eyes" — Janni Lee Simner
"The Owl Keeper" — Christine Brodien-Jones
"Dreaming in Chinese" — Deborah Fallows
"The Steps Across the Water" — Adam Gopnik
"Take a Chance on Me" — Jill Mansell
"Boys Lie: How Not to Get Played" — Belisa Vranich (signed)
"On the Blue Comet" — Rosemary Wells (signed)
"Misty Gordon and the Mystery of the Ghost Pirates"
"Man in the Woods" — Scott Spencer
"I'd Know You Anywhere" — Laura Lippman

"I'd go so far to say that "Cinder" out-dirties, out-evils, out-swoons, and plain out-does the classic tale that we all grew up with." — Miss Remmers

Release Date: January 3rd, 2012
Publisher: Feiwel and Friends
Challenges: 100+ Challenge, eBook Challenge

"Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth’s fate hinges on one girl... .
Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She’s a second-class citizen with a mysterious past, reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister’s illness. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai’s, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world’s future. In this thrilling debut young adult novel, the first of a quartet, Marissa Meyer introduces readers to an unforgettable heroine and a masterfully crafted new world that’s enthralling."

"Cinder" entered my life at the worst possible moment — a week before my research papers were due. Needless to say, until today I had only read to page 28. The subsequent pages were read in one sitting while the husband played COD.

"Cinder" is more than a re-imagining of the classic Cinderella story but is more comparable to Star Wars meets "Across the Universe" with a little bit of Cinderella twisted in type of story. When I think of Cinderella, I think of foolish stepsisters, a wicked stepmother, a quiet and almost ridiculous Prince, and of course the few mice and pumpkins. "Cinder" on the other hand incorporates one evil, and I mean REALLY, evil stepsister (what a brat!), and WITCH of a stepmother!, a handsome, humorous, and chivalrous Prince, with a few androids sprinkled in.

Quick note: I had to ask Husband, but apparently a cyborg (if you didn't know) is part human part machine and an android is all machine.

First with the evil people — while reading this story I could feel myself flush with anger and my cheeks redden with indignation towards Adri and even Pearl. I've loved and cried for characters before (see Delirium and Pandemonium) but I don't think I've ever really hated a character so much in a book that I could feel the physical effects and drain on my body after reading.

The prince, much like the evilness of these two characters, goes away beyond the quiet dark haired prince from the Disney classic. While Cinder and Kai did fall rather quickly, I was rooting for them the entire time. I loved every page with Kai on it and waited for him to make an appearance (I just wish he would have made an appearance earlier in the novel). Kai is... I mean, just WOW! Definitely a vote over the "what's his face" from Cinderella. Does he even have a name or is he just Prince Charming? Dumb.

Anyway, I digress — I think my favorite part of this story falls to the android, Iko. As I mentioned on Twitter, I really wish I had an android that was an R2D2/Iko cross. My life would be an endless conversation full of cleverness. Do you think I could train my iPhone to be an android?

Anyway, "Cinder" is a definite must read the first week of January before school is in full swing. I absolutely adored it's plot and characters. I'd go so far to say that "Cinder" out-dirties, out-evils, out-swoons, and plain out-does the classic tale that we all grew up with.*

* You know, unless you were born after 2000
If you're interested, Barnes and Noble has the first five chapters available for a free download.

-Visit Marissa around the web here: Website | Blog | Goodreads | Twitter
-BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Kindle | Barnes and Noble | Nook

To the FTC, with love: eGalley from NetGalley

I beat the storm home last Saturday and have spent the week at home. While it seems like I haven't gotten a lot accomplished, I have. I successfully reattached my 'enter' key and reinstalled Word. I lost most of my music (about 8GB) while trying to transfer music from my iPod to my PC (I've come to terms with said loss) and had a pick me up by having Santa bring me a new iPod Touch (not that I know how to use it yet). I have seen three movies in theaters since last Sunday including: "A Christmas Carol" (let down), "The Princess and the Frog" (surprisingly amazing), and "Sherlock Holmes" (slight let down). Last Sunday my phone broke and they were sending me a new one. It was supposed to arrive on Wednesday. It is now a week later and I still do not have a working phone — but again, I've come to terms. As you can tell, I had a pretty rough week (in regards to technology). Slowly (but surely) things are starting to look up.

This week I reviewed "Inside Out, " "The Source of Miracles, " "Elmer the Christmas Elf, " "A Christmas Carol: Special Edition, " "I Used to Know That, " and "Cracked Up to Be. " As a result, this has probably been one of the most productive weeks (in regards to blogging/recreational reading) that I have had since August. I'm SO enjoying it. "The Source of Miracles " was one of the best books I've read in such a long time! I can't shut up about it! I did read/finish "Love You, Hate You, Miss You" as well — the review is coming. I did have to abandon two books that have been hanging over my head all semester. I've had both of them for months and I've continually tried to pick them up and read them — but I was forcing myself to do it. And I can't condone forcing myself to read when I have such an awesome bunch of books to read. So, I'll be passing them on (hint hint). Stay tuned.

Sadly, part of the 8GB of music lost included "Confessions of a Shopaholic." I wasn't too far into it though so I'm not too upset about it. I'll probably look for it at the library. I also didn't do an "In My Mailbox" post as I haven't received anything (not even a phone)! But I do know that I have a book or two waiting for me back at school that I will get sometime this week when I head back for New Years.

Cassie was this week's Guest Reviewer — donating her review of City of Bones. Please share some book love and visit her at Happy Book Lovers.

My new holiday campaign to collect Guest Reviews has been a great hit — we've acquired 44 reviews! Thanks to everyone who has donated! Campaign ends January 4th and is open to absolutely everyone! I have four more Guest Reviews to post (scheduled) but those are only the ones that I received via email. Many people only left a link on Mr. Linky — which I guess is okay and it is still appreciated. I just feel more like I'm plagiarizing then — but reviews are reviews and the more the better.

I gained three followers this week and now have 34 amazing followers. Welcome and Thank you!

My list of books to read/things to do during break:

• Read "Inside Out"
• Read "Elmer, the Christmas Elf"
• Post all the Guest Reviews I've received for My Holiday Book Review Campaign
• Finish "The Source of Miracles" (Review)
  
• Read "Lucifer Rising" (Review)
  
• Read "Comfort Living" (Review)
  
• Read "I Used to Know That" (Review)
  
• Read "Some Girls Are" (ARC — Goodreads Winner)
  
• Read "The Van Alen Legacy" (Library — Momma Remmers)
  
• Read "Love You, Hate You, Miss You" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Truly, Madly: A Novel" (ARC — Goodreads Winner)
• Read "Jennifer Johnson is Sick of Being Single" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Sea Change" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Jumping off Swings" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Before I Die" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Embellish" (Review)
• Read "Gone" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Cracked Up to Be" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "How to Buy a Love of Reading" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Oh.My.Gods." (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Dark Places" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Nothing But Ghosts" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Isabelle's Boyfriend" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "The Grand Sophy" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Once Bitten, Twice Shy" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Shelter Me" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Ransome's Honor" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Poltergeist" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Girlfriend Material" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Wicked Lovely" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "According to Jane" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Catching Fire" (Library — Momma Remmers)

What did you finish this week?

"Courtney Summers has successfully created a universal character that anyone can relate to on some level." — Miss Remmers

From Amazon.com...

"Perfect Parker Fadley isn’t so perfect anymore. She’s quit the cheerleading squad, she’s dumped her perfect boyfriend, and she’s failing school. Her parents are on a constant suicide watch and her counselors think she’s playing games…but what they don’t know, the real reason for this whole mess, isn’t something she can say out loud. It isn’t even something she can say to herself. A horrible thing has happened and it just might be her fault. If she can just remove herself from everybody--be totally alone--then everything will be okay... The problem is, nobody will let her."

This book is a beautiful, heart breaking, honest read. The plot and the characters are flawless. I feel like I know Parker, Chris, Becky, Jessie, and Jake. I haven't felt so connected to the characters (all of them, even the secondary characters) for such a long time. The most impressive aspect of the book, in my opinion, is the distinct voice or tone. I loved the dialogue (especially in regards to Parker). Besides the dialogue, the overall tone of the novel is witty but real. Sometimes when characters are witty they lose the realness (who is ever really that witty anyway). But Courtney Summers successfully created a witty and real character.

The plot was catching, I had to find out what happened; I told myself one more chapter and then finally had to shut the book (in order to sleep) eight chapters later. I cried more than once and Parker's pain and I was able to follow her train of thought (scary, I know). I saw a lot of myself in Parker, not the suicidal part, but the "perfect"/anal retentive/ type A personality part. But the other part of her, the guilty and hurting part, anyone could relate to. It is precisely this, I think, that makes this book a phenomenal read. Courtney Summers has successfully created a universal character that anyone can relate to on some level.

I'm sad that this is a library book and that I have to return it. Despite the bit of foul language and the minute allusions to sex — I think this book would be a great book to inspire a non-reader to read recreationally. I will definitely be purchasing a copy for my classroom. And while I was going to wait a while to read "Some Girls Are" — I think I'll read it next!

Favorite Quote:
"I've never met a girl so content to be a growth" (124).

"This is the perfect book for the Holiday season." — Miss Remmers

From Amazon.com...

"Celebrate the season with Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim, Jacob Marley, and the Spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Future—and discover how the greatest Christmas classic was based on the greastest story ever told.

This special edition includes the complete text of A Christmas Carol along with notes and discussion questions written from a Christian perspective."

This book was a wonderful read. While I have seen several different film adaptations of "A Christmas Carol," I had not read the book. I won't lie, I was a bit intimidated by the thought of this book. I mean, everyone's heard of it and Charles Dickens himself is an intimidating figure in literature.

Because of this, I particularly appreciated the annotations that explained the biblical allusions, Dickens faith, and the Christian themes throughout the novel. The discussion questions were also extremely helpful in understanding the depth to the novel. Should I ever use this book in a classroom (which will, undoubtedly, happen), the discussion questions (particularly A and B) will come in extremely handy as essay/reflection assignments.

As for the story itself, it was as beautiful as one would expect. Not nearly as "scary" as I had previously thought, the story was beautifully written and is the perfect book for the Holiday season.

I especially loved the quotes in the discussion section of the book:

"'Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves'" (30).
"What is good for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?" (31).
"God bless us, Every One!" (120).
"Let's have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found" (121).

Big thanks to Julie from FSB Associates for sending me a review copy of this wonderful Christmas story.

This week I welcome Cassie from Happy Book Lovers as this weeks Guest Reviewer.

*********************
Going to a party can often change your life. You may find someone to fall in love with, someone to fall out of love with, what you don't usually expect is to discover something which puts everything you thought you knew about yourself in doubt. When Clary finds herself at Pandemonium, it's just another night, another night of teenage fights with her mother, of wrestling with the mating habits of your peers, that is until Clary witnesses a murder. But this is no ordinary murder, the corpse vanishes and it appears that only Clary can see the killers...
Clare created an unimaginable world, yet at the same time made it so touchable. I had the same eerie feeling when reading Scott Westerfeld's books; that feeling that somewhere in the world, this could really happen. I read this in little over twenty-four hours, and am currently dying as the library doesn't have the second copy in.
One of the most memorable traits was how flawed the characters were. It was, of course, in a good way, allowing them to change allegiances freely. This, in turn, made the plot totally unpredictable, and I will be the first to admit I was shocked by the ending. I also loved Alec. I loved him. He was one of those not-mentioned-a-whole-lot people that I fell in love with, despite his petty love life. I also loved how recent issues were brought into the novel (I won't give it away), making the entire thing seem so much more realistic, contributing to that creepy-factor I mentioned earlier.

*************************

Again, Cassie, thank you so much for this awesome review! I've never heard of this book and I'm definitely going to add it to my list! Thanks!

Please share some book love and visit Cassie at Happy Book Lovers.

"I can definitely see why my freshmen girls race through these novels." — Miss Remmers

From Barnes and Noble.com...

"Everyone has something to hide—especially high school juniors Spencer, Aria, Emily, and Hanna.

Why I read this: I sat down and watched the first episode of the television show last summer but after the whole teacher/student scene I decided not to watch the rest. Now I'm wishing I had. I thought I'd give the series another chance by reading the book as my students request it on a daily basis.

Plot: I can see why this is such a popular book with my freshman. The plot is fast moving and the hook grabs readers from before the page number one (something many readers need in order to move forward). Uniquely, "the hook" didn't let up through out the novel. Each character had a different story line and a different secret that no one else knew. This variation in narration, I think, aided the novels' level of suspense and kept the reader "hooked." The level of deceit only rose throughout the novel and, of course, the mysterious "A" was forever elusive.

Characters: While I can't say any of the characters were exactly likable, I can say that they are definitely addicting to read about. Each character definitely had their own personality and identity. Shepard did a fantastic job of making each character hate-able but relatable at the same time; as a reader I saw the flaws in each of their actions but at the same time I could see where they were coming from.

Cover: Cute, different, eye-catching, and perfect for the story line.

Final Thoughts: I will definitely continue reading this series not only to find out who "A" is, but to find out how the girls deal with their "issues." I can definitely see why my freshmen girls race through these novels.

Originality: 10/10
Ending: 10/10
Characters: 8/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 8/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Overall: 96/100 A

To the FTC, with love: Purchased

At the beginning of the year, Momma Remmers applied for and received the Laura Bush Grant, $5500 for fiction books only. A dream come true, I know. So before I left for school, I gave Momma Remmers my huge theoretical TBR List (theoretical implying I don't have the books, but I want to read them). When I went to visit Momma Remmers at her library at the high school, she had a HUGE surprise for me — a huge box full of books (the books I requested!) that I can take with me during break to read! So my original "To Do List" just grew exponentially:

• Finish "The Source of Miracles" (Review)
• Finish listening to "Confessions of a Shopoholic" (Own)
• Read "Merry, Merry Ghost" (Library — 12/30)
• Read "Inside Out" (Review)
• Read "Elmer, the Christmas Elf" (Review)
• Read "Lucifer Rising" (Review)
• Read "Comfort Living" (Review)
• Read "I Used to Know That" (Review)
• Read "Death Beauty" (Review)
• Read "The Man Who Loved Books Too Much" (Review)
• Read "Some Girls Are" (ARC — Goodreads Winner)
• Read "The Van Alen Legacy" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Post all the Guest Reviews I've received for My Holiday Book Review Campaign
• Read "Love You, Hate You, Miss You" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Truly, Madly: A Novel" (ARC — Goodreads Winner)
• Read "Jennifer Johnson is Sick of Being Single" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Sea Change" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Jumping off Swings" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Before I Die" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Embellish" (Review)
• Read "Gone" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Cracked Up to Be" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "How to Buy a Love of Reading" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Oh.My.Gods." (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Dark Places" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Nothing But Ghosts" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Isabelle's Boyfriend" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "The Grand Sophy" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Once Bitten, Twice Shy" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Shelter Me" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Ransome's Honor" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Poltergeist" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Girlfriend Material" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Wicked Lovely" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "According to Jane" (Library — Momma Remmers)
• Read "Catching Fire" (Library — Momma Remmers)

I am "stealing" this from The Story Siren. If you want to find out more about it in my blog. Anyway, these are books I got this week at the bookstore, library, and in the mail, of course.

For Review:
Won:
From GoodReads First Winner: ARC of "Truly, Madly: A Novel"

From the library:

• "Merry, Merry Ghost"
  

What did you find in your mailboxes this week?

Until next week — Happy Reading!

The purpose of this blog is to inform reluctant readers of great literature that will get them passionate about reading.

I accept review copies from authors and publishers and I love to participate in blog tours, host contests and interview authors. As a first year teacher, my time is limited; because of this, I am not able to accept every book offered.

All my reviews are original and honest. I have never been compensated and all of my thoughts are my own.

Types of Genres I enjoy: While Young Adult and Adult literature is my main focus, I do accept and review some middle grade and children's titles. I am partial to fantasy, paranormal, chick-lit, romance, historical fiction, literary fiction, anything that addresses social issues, mysteries and thrillers.

I do not prefer to read a series out of sequence. If you have a review request that is part of a series that I have not read, I will ask that you provide a copy of each of it’s predecessors. This will allow for a more effective review, all reviews of the series will be posted as well.

Genres I don't usually pick up: I normally do not read non-fiction, memoirs/biographies or science-fiction. But, if you feel that a particular book would be beneficial and interesting towards reluctant readers — I'd be willing to consider it. Currently I do not accepting e-books or pdfs for review. I do occasionally accept self-published books.

When I accept a novel to review: It does not guarantee that I will write a review. While I strive to complete each book, if I find myself unable or unwilling to finish it, I will not force myself to read. I truly believe that reading should be enjoyable — if the book I am attempting to read becomes a "chore," I will put it down. I do promise to read 100 pages of each book accepted for review before putting it down. If I do not finish a book, I always pass it on (unless the provider of the review book asks me not to) in, what I call, a "Quick Giveaway." I simply give the book to the first responder with a Guest Review. An example of a Quick Giveaway. If you do not want a book to be passed on, please tell me before hand or I can make no guarantee that it won't be handed off to another reader.

While I try to only accept review books I think I will like, I cannot guarantee that the review will be positive, but it will be fair. I don't take pleasure in negating someone's work, but my reviews will be my honest opinion. My reviews include a synopsis of the novel (generally provided by Amazon or the publisher's website) and my personal thoughts about the book.
How long will it take for a review: I try to read the review titles that I receive in a timely manner but I do have time constraints. If the book is an ARC, I will try to review the book in the month surrounding its release date, in most cases before the book is released or shortly after. If the book is already released then it may take me anywhere from 2-4 months to read and review it.

Note of Clarification: Review if I do not plan on keeping the book in my classroom. If this is not something you want, please tell me before hand — just in case. Also, I love hosting giveaways or Author Interviews — if this is something you'd be interested in, please let me know.

Traffic Details: According to Google Analytics, I receive about 200 visitors a day and generally have 10 to 15 comments a day. This blog is not particularly meant to generate huge amounts of outside traffic. This blog is meant to introduce reluctant young readers to different novels. During the school year my students visit this blog daily and will contribute to the reviews listed. My students will use this blog as a reference when looking for a "good book to read for fun."

If you're interested in knowing a bit more about me — please visit my About Me page.

Disclosure: All of the books I receive for review are provided by the publisher or the author. I do not expect, accept, or receive monetary compensation for my reviews.

"Not only a page turner, but a 'stay-up-all-night-to-finish' book!" — Miss Remmers

From Amazon.com...

"Love ties them together. Death can't tear them apart.
Best. Birthday. Ever. At least, it was supposed to be. With Logan's band playing a critical gig and Aura's plans for an intimate after-party, Aura knows it will be the most memorable night of her boyfriend's life. She never thought it would be his last.

Logan's sudden death leaves Aura devastated. He's gone.

Well, sort of.

Like everyone born after the Shift, Aura can see and hear ghosts. This mysterious ability has always been annoying, and Aura had wanted nothing more than to figure out why the Shift happened so she can undo it. But not with Logan’s violet-hued spirit still hanging around. Because dead Logan is almost as real as ever. Almost.

It doesn't help that Aura’s new friend Zachary is so understanding—and so very alive. His support means more to Aura than she cares to admit.

As Aura's relationships with the dead and the living grow ever complicated, so do her feelings for Logan and Zachary. Each holds a piece of Aura's heart…and clues to the secret of the Shift."

Why I read this: The cover was definitely a "draw in" for me, plus the synopsis, and the author is amazingly approachable and funny — the recipe of a great read!

Plot: Set in "post-Shift", where anyone born after the Shift can see and communicate with the dead, "Shade" is a fantastically riveting read that intrigues readers from the beginning. The idea alone that the young are so separated from the older generation because of this "dis/ability" is alluring enough when you take into consideration how anyone under the age of 17 today assumes they are so disconnected from my generation or older. The plot was unlike anything I had ever read and I couldn't get enough of it.

Characters: I really connected with Aura's character; I can definitely see why she wants to get rid of her "ability" and I love how persistent she is to find the truth. This novel is so heart-breakingly honest, especially during the trial. My emotions throughout the novel ranged from "Oh my gosh are they really... " and "Oh he didn't... " (at the beginning), to mortification and embarrassment (towards the end), and finally settled at "I need the next book!" (the last page). These characters were so real to me that I felt like I had went on this journey right along with Aura, Logan, and Zach.

Speaking of Zach, he definitely gets my vote (can you say "sweetheart"!). His whole story line was definitely intriguing, page turning, and completely surprising.

Cover: This cover is SO eye-catching and alluring, before even meeting the author or reading the synopsis I knew I wanted to read this book due to the beautiful cover.

Random Thoughts: I'm just going to say... I need the next book.

Final Thoughts: I am so upset that I let this book sit on my bookshelf for seven months. It was so fantastic! Not only a page turner, but a "stay up all night to finish" book! I definitely recommend this novel to readers of all ages who are looking for an exciting read. I love this book so much it'll be my first classroom book talk for the New Year! Definitely read this novel.

Originality: 9/10
Ending: 10/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 9/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Overall: 98/100 A

To the FTC, with love: Received at BEA 2010

Dear Galley Grab,

It's been so long since I've last seen you. October! I came to expect you around the 17th of each month, much like a love-sick teenager. I didn't realize what I had until it was gone! The last novel I read from the Grab was "The Pledge", an utterly amazing novel that only added to my addiction. But now I'm "grabless" and am feeling the subsequent anxiety. Did I do something wrong? Did we do something wrong? In November I waited and waited — to no avail for you to appear in my inbox. As mid-December approaches, do I dare to dream? Do I dare convince myself that this is only a small "break" rather than permanent? It's hard to believe that it's only really been a month in a half; in the "big scheme" of things I guess that isn't that long. But my heart hurts for you — it yearns for you to appear in my inbox this week or next. In May at the BBC it appeared as though egalleys were here to stay. If I am being selfish is it in love's name! I miss you! I love you! Please, please Galley Grab — return to me!

Love,

Book Bloggers Everywhere

[While this letter is, of course, written in jest, really Galley Grab — please return to us.]

"I'd consider this book one of the best-kept-secret new releases of the month." — Miss Remmers

Release Date: December 27th, 2011
Publisher: Zonderkidz
Challenges: 100+ Reading Challenge, eBook Challenge

"Martyr---otherwise known as Jason 3:3---is one of hundreds of clones kept in a remote facility called Jason Farms. Told that he has been created to save humanity, Martyr has just one wish before he is scheduled to 'expire' in less than a month. To see the sky. Abby Goyer may have just moved to Alaska, but she has a feeling something strange is going on at the farm where her father works. But even this smart, confident girl could never have imagined what lies beneath a simple barn. Or what would happen when a mysterious boy shows up at her door, asking about the stars. As the reality of the Jason Experiment comes to light, Martyr is caught between two futures---the one for which he was produced and the one Abby believes God created him to have. Time is running out, and Martyr must decide if a life with Abby is worth leaving everything he's ever known."

Beginning to read "Replication," I had no idea what what I was getting myself into. I hardly knew the plot line and I hadn't seen it in the blogosphere at all; needless to say, I was a bit hesitant. But soon after starting this book, I couldn't put it down.

I was surprised at how well it was written and how fast I became enveloped and committed to the plot and characters. I finished this book in one day and couldn't wait to tell you all about it because it is so different from anything else I've recently read. Written in a "present day" society where cloning is an underground illegal operation, Williamson did a fantastic job of creating multi-faceted characters and a multi-dimensional plot. While a few of the characters were "similar," they were so perfectly different at the same time!

If I had to say one less than brilliant comment about this book — it would be "the God references." While cloning is definitely an issue of ethics and we couldn't really have ethics without some sense of religion, I sort of felt like that at points "God" and his ethics were sort of just dropped in the dialogue. It reminded me of "Beowulf" and how down the line when this oral tale was being written some monks inserted some religion lines throughout the story. It just didn't always flow well.

That being said, the first time God was mentioned in this book I couldn't help but roll my eyes and think, "Oh no, what's this?" I don't know why that's my first reaction to God being mentioned in a YA novel. I'm Christian, I enjoy Christian music, I attend church, and overall consider myself a "faithful believer." But in YA books so often it comes off as overly pious and apparently I have issues with the overtly pious. In this book, however, the mention of God and God's way was not read as arrogantly pious rather as genuine concern and an honest need of guidance — which was refreshing.

Overall, I'd consider this book one of the best-kept-secret new releases of the month.

What are your thoughts on religion in YA? I think I'm going to blame society for this particular quirk of mine (in regards to my involuntary flinch). I grew up in a "quiet Catholic" community so we didn't talk about our faith and we hardly ever said the word "God" outside of church, Sunday school, and prayers. I think society may have trained me to shun away from the word. Even at work, obviously as a teacher, I am very careful not to bring "the G-Word" up. Whether that's right or wrong, I'm not sure. But I think this "quiet Catholic" attitude has made its way into my reading habits as well. Speaking (or reading) about God is almost taboo it seems. Why is that? Do we train our children for that? Or have things changed?

Also, in case you were wondering:

My fingers are crossed as well, Jill!

-Visit Jill around the web here: Website | Goodreads
-BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Kindle | Barnes and Noble | Nook

To the FTC, with love: eGalley received from NetGalley