Stephanie's Confessions of a Book-a-holic

Sunday Salon...a Whining Post AND Short Story Sunday

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 06:30:00 +0000

Commence Whining: I haven't done a Sunday Salon post in MONTHS. Lately, I haven't really felt that I have anything of any value to say. I mean, I love blogging. But recently, I've just felt so bogged down with life that the little time I have to blog, I can't think of anything to say. Does that every happen to you? I mean, I actually have a ton of posts I could write: A RIP Wrap-up, a couple of book reviews, a Library Loot post, more challenge post. Or even something family related. And yet when I sit down at the computer, the blahs hit. Nothing I type is interesting. Nothing really excites me. And all I can think is this: "Who wants to Read this Crap anyway?" Am I actually doing something worthwhile here?? I hope so. I'd hate to think that I'm just wasting my time. With so little time, sometimes I feel like I'm on the fringe of blogging. Not really here enough to make the little connections that are necessary to keep going. Not being able to participate in all the fun, like the Read-a-Thon. Not keeping track of the friends I have made well enough.

I don't know. Maybe it's just me. Maybe I'm just feeling the pressure of the season, and the stress of Mike not working. Or the stress of all the hours I've been putting in. Or the pressure of spending quality time with the kids when all I really want to do is crawl into bed and pull the covers over my head and sleep well into next week. Or maybe it's the fact that my shoulder isn't healing all that well and I'm constantly in either A). Pain or B). a Pain-Killer Induced Haze. At one point a few years back I was actually taking some anti-depressants. Maybe I should find me some "happy" pills again.

I'm not writing this for any type of sympathy. I think I just need to let it all out. Truth of the matter is, I am sitting here, seriously lonely right now. I'm working the weekend at the Red Cross. Saturday night/Sunday mornings are the worst here. Next to one security guard, I'm literally the only person in the building. I'm here mainly for emergency purposes. I like alone time. But tonight, I'm just craving an actual person to talk to. Unfortunately, even Twitter is rather deserted tonight. I guess every once in a great while I need to step back, take a breath, and re-evaluate things. Tonight seems to be one of those times.

End Whining.

In all actuality, it was a good week. The kids parent/teacher conferences were this week. Bella is getting all B's, except Reading, where she is excelling. (go figure!) She lacks a little self-confidence, but she got the lead of Mrs. Santa Claus in the Christmas play, so she's actually doing better. Ana is reading at a 5th grade level (in 2nd grade). The teacher is moving her to an Advanced Readers Group with 3 other kids because she's afraid her 2nd grade work is going to bore her. Straight A's. And Chad....all A's, except for a B in Art. He's taking High School level Algebra and is in all Accelerated classes. His teachers are already recommending AP classes for him in high school. So yeah...I'm pretty proud of the Kiddies. We even went to see a movie tonight: Cirque du Freak: Vampire's Assistant. Is it just me, or is John C. Reilly like the coolest nerd ever??

I have 2 book reviews to do. I've actually been reading. Right now, I'm reading a fantastic collection of essays. I don't really like essays, but this one is well-worth reading. I can't wait to review it!!

So....on to a few Short Stories for this Sunday: Again, from John Connolly's Nocturnes.

The Inkpot Monkey - Mr. Edgerton was suffering from writer's block. Mr. Edgerton was a modestly successful author. But lately he has been unable to write a word. Always looking for inspiration, he wanders into an old antiques store and sees a little inkpot, with what looks like a tiny stuffed monkey. According to ancient Chinese mythology, the monkey will provide artistic inspiration in return for the residues of ink left at the bottom of the inkpot. Mr. Edgerton is willing to try anything to escape the writer's block, so he buys the little inkpot monkey. But is he really ready to give all the monkey wants in return for the inspiration??

The Shifting of the Sands - The decision to reopen the rectory at Black Sands was not made lightly. The people at Black Sands were not a religious people. In fact, they went out of their way NOT to be. But they were a prosperous group, and lucky too. In fact, for a sea-faring community, they were incredibly lucky. Not even once has a Black Sands native been lost to the sea. However, once every twenty years an outsider drowned in the area. 20 years ago, it was the rector at the church. But now that a new rector is in town, will he survive or will he have the same fate befallen upon him?

Some Children Wander by Mistake - The circus seldom came to towns in the North. For William, the thought of the circus was incredibly exciting. He was pretty much a loner at school. He has dealt with his share of bullies, too. But he loved the idea of the circus. Because he LOVED Clowns. And the circus brought with it the promise of clowns. But while William does get to see the clowns, it's not at all the way he pictured it. Because he finds out a little truth in life: Clowns are not made, they are born.

Deep Dark Green - We never should have gone near Baal's Pond. There was a mystery surrounding the dark waters of Baal's pond. At one time, there was a house on that very spot. But something sinister lived in there. Something that took the village's children. So the villagers took it upon themselves to destroy everything. And with some stolen kegs of gunpowder, the river was re-directed over the spot on which the house sat. Now, that is where the deep, dark waters of Baal's pond sits. The kids say you should never swim there. For if you do, you might not ever come back.....

I am once again amazed at how wonderful and creepy Connolly's short stories are!! As a self-confessed Coulrophobic, I have a deep-seated and extremely unnatural fear of clowns. They freak me out. Always have. *shudder* So let's just say that Some Children Wander by Mistake completely played to all my fears!! I KNEW there was a reason I hated them!! But really, each story was good. Like I said in previous posts, if you liked fun, creepy, eerie short stories, go get this book!! (Will post the last of them next Sunday!)

Till then, Happy Reading!!

One More RIP Book....We Have Always Lived in the Castle

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 07:52:00 +0000

I realize that the RIP Challenge is over. I haven't had a lot of time to post the last few weeks. (To be honest, I think I did finish a day or two late anyway!) I still haven't even finished reviewing my short story collection from John Connolly (which I DID complete and found incredibly creepy and just wonderful). But I'll get to that too. For now, you are just going to have to settle for this review: We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson (210 pgs, Penguin, 1962). It is going to be used as a selection for the RIP IV Challenge.

My name is Mary Katherine Blackwood. I am eighteen years old, and I live with my sister Constance. I have often thought that with any luck at all I could have been born a werewolf, because the two middle fingers on both my hands are the same length, but I have had to be content with what I had. I dislike washing myself, and dogs, and noise. I like my sister Constance, and Richard Plantagenet, and Amanita phalloides, the death-cup mushroom. Everyone else in my family is dead.

If that's not one of the most unique and creepy opening paragraphs, then I don't know what is. Mary Katherine Blackwood, most commonly known as Merricat, lives with her sister Constance and their crippled Uncle Julian. Constance is a total recluse who refuses to leave her home. She had been accused of the murder of the rest of the family (a poisoning by arsenic), but had been acquitted by the courts. Unfortunately, the rest of the town didn't seem to agree with the ruling. In the beginning, we see Merricat going to the village for supplies. Everyone is a little distant, but it becomes clear that the Blackwoods are pariahs in town.

But their lives have routine. And all is the same until the day Cousin Charles enters the picture. And that is the beginning of the end.

There is not much more I can say about the storyline itself without giving something away. And trust me, it is best just to read it for yourself. From the beginning, things seem just a little "off". Merricat is an eighteen year old girl; and yet she is treated and acts like a child. And then there are her strange little rituals and her weird imagination. As the story progresses, with Merricat as the narrator, the reader isn't really even sure how much of the tale is real. She is not exactly the most reliable of narrators.

Shirley Jackson is amazingly adept at creating a story that is amazingly creepy in such a simple way. Not in the real sense of monsters or demons, but in an even scarier, psychological way. It truly is a gift of a great writer. From the beginning you know that something isn't right. And even though the "surprise" isn't much of a surprise by the time it is revealed, it is chilling in it's own way. From deep in your gut, you can just FEEL that it is all wrong.

It is a ingenious little story, and yet I hate to admit that I didn't like it. I can see the brilliance in the writing, but did I enjoy it? Not really. And I've been really trying to figure out why. I think it's because I didn't like any of the characters. To me, not one of them was likable. Although it is written to make Constance seem all sunshine and roses, to me she was just as much of a loon as Merricat. Actually, she was even crazier. (again, I can't say much more than that). Uncle Julian is old and senile. Cousin Charles is only out for his own personal gain. The villagers were mostly a vile bunch. And I disliked them all immensely. I guess, for me personally, I have to connect with someone to enjoy the story. Or at least this one anyway.

BUT, I loved The Lottery. And I really want to read The Haunting Of Hill House. I'm not giving up on Jackson. As I said, the story really is extremely well-written. It's good. I just didn't like it!! If you like creepy little tales, maybe this one is for you!! 3.5/5

The Women Unbound Reading Challenge and a Few Other Tidbits

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 09:34:00 +0000

Another reading challenge you say?? Whatever for?? Well....because. Because I love challenges. Because I love making lists. And because I love the idea of reading some books out of my comfort zone. Also...this looks like it is going to be a REALLY GOOD challenge!! Lots of fun. And besides...they have some really cool buttons (ok..that's my shallow side coming out!) The Women Unbound Reading Challenge is hosted by 3 fantastic women: Aarti from Booklust, Care from Care's Online Book Club, and Eva from A Striped Armchair. Apparently this challenge was brainstormed over a Twitter session one day (damn my having to sleep during the day because of work!! I miss out on so much Twitter fun!) This is a year-long challenge from November '09 to November '10. Books to be read should be both fiction and non-fiction and deal with "women's studies".

You can do any level of participation you are comfortable with. The three levels are:

Philogynist: read at least two books, including at least one nonfiction one.
Bluestocking: read at least five books, including at least two nonfiction ones.
Suffragette: read at least eight books, including at least three nonfiction ones.

Since I have a list of so many books I'd like to read, I'm sticking with the big guns: Suffragette level.

As always, I made a list, but I also reserve the right to change my mind at any given time. My prerogative as a woman!!

So far, this is what I have:

Fiction:

Bastard out of Carolina by Dorothy Allison
Cat's Eye by Margaret Atwood
Alias Grace by Margaret Atwood
Tipping the Velvet by Sarah Waters
Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Out by Natsuo Kirino
The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula le Guin
Kitchen by Banana Yoshimoto
Empress Orchid by Anchee Min

Nonfiction:

Couldn't Keep it to Myself: Wally Lamb and the Women of York Correctional Institution (Testimonies from our Imprisoned Sisters) Edited by Wally Lamb
Factory Girls: From Village to City in a Changing China by Leslie T. Chang
The House at Sugar Beach: In Search of a Lost African Childhood by Helene Cooper
Prozac Nation by Elizabeth Wurtzel
Catherine the Great: Love, Sex and Power by Virgina Rounding
Persepolis and Persepolis 2 by Marjane Satrapi
Self-Made Man by Norah Vincent
Infidel by Ayaan Hirsi Ali

Sheesh. That's way too many books, but I couldn't stop finding great books once I started looking!! Join in with me in this challenge. Come on. You know you want to!!

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This weekend was Chad's last football game. He has played the entire year at Linebacker. He really likes defense. But the last few weeks of practice he really kicked it up a notch. Since he is so strong for such a little guy, the coaches decided to play him at fullback and give him a chance at running the ball. He did really well....and in the last game of the year, he busted one up the middle for a 42-yard touchdown!! I was so proud!! Probably not quite as proud as he was, but close!

I have parent/teacher conferences this week. So far, the kids seem to be bringing home great grades. Bella is having a bit of trouble concentrating....and rushing things, but I think she'll be ok.

Remember my best friend's movie?? They are almost done with the editing. Red Carpet showing here in Peoria is in January. And they are going to enter it into some film festivals. Aaron's trying to talk me into getting the kids' an agent, and trying to get them some modeling work. Chad wants it pretty bad, so I guess I may have to look into it. He was contacted a few weeks back for a modeling school, but they wanted $2500 for the class. More than I could afford! Aaron's knows a few agents, and I have a couple of local places that offer acting classes. If he really wants to do it, I think I'm going to go through someone who won't charge quite so much. Seems a little shady to me.

That's about it for me. Happy Reading!! Later!

Happy Halloween!!

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 17:47:00 +0000

May you get lots of Treats and very few Tricks today!!! Happy Halloween!

A Little Graphic Novel Love...The Preacher: Gone to Texas

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 11:02:00 +0000

Although my little brother is 12 years younger than me, we think a lot alike. It's actually kind of scary. I wasn't around alot when he was growing up, but I tried to spend time with him. I'd like to think that some of me has rubbed off!! Now that we are both adults, I just love him to death. He's seriously an awesome guy. And our tastes in movies, music and books are mirrored. He's also a HUGE graphic novel reader. So when he tells me, I HAVE to read a series, I take his recommendations pretty seriously. The Preacher Series by Garth Ennis is one of his favorites, so I decided I needed to go buy the first book and see how it is. Preacher: Gone to Texas (200 pgs, Vertigo, 1996) is Volume #1 in a 9 Volume series. And since Luke says it's the Best Graphic Novel Series he's ever read, I have a hard time arguing.

"It was the time of the Preacher...." And so begins our tale. We meet up with 3 people that are traveling together. Jesse Custer, an ex-minister from Texas who has lost his faith. And his congregation. His ex-girlfriend, Tulip, who happens to be working as a hitwoman. And then there is Cassidy, Jesse's new best friend. Cassidy is a lot of fun...for a one hundred-year-old Irish Vampire.

Jesse's faith had been wavering for a while. But when an incident occurs that leaves Jesse "possessed" by a Heavenly creature known as Genesis (as well as killing his entire congregation and destroying his church), his faith is pretty much destroyed. And he's pissed. So, Jesse is off to find God and have a few words with him.

Along the way, of course, there are many obstacles. First of all, Genesis is the offspring of an angel and demon that fell in love. Being a new idea, a combination of Heaven and Hell, Genesis has been kept in a prison of sorts. Genesis seems to have as much power as God Almighty, and now it is occupying the same body as Jesse. When the Adephi Angels guarding Genesis realized what happened, they send out the Saint of Killers (Patron Saint of Slaughter and Assassination) to find Jesse and retrieve Genesis at any cost. Then there is the Reaver-Cleaver Serial Killer that also has his sights set on the trio. And finally, it seems that God has actually LEFT Heaven. After the birth of Genesis, God leaves the Seraphi (Warrior Archangels) in charge of Heaven. Now, Jesse, Tulip and Cassidy are on the run....and on the hunt for God.

First of all, as much as I LOVED this book, I'm going to be the first to admit, it is NOT FOR EVERYONE. It reads like a Quintin Tarantino movie. It's bloody, gory, brutal, offensive, sick, twisted....and the list goes on. But it works well in the whole scheme of things. The story is original and fun. The characters are fantastic. Jesse, for a foul-mouthed ex-preacher from Texas, does have a strong moral compass. He is trying to do the right thing. With Genesis' bonding, he is probably the most powerful person on the planet. And yet he doesn't try to take advantage of the situation. In fact, all he really wants to do is have a little conversation with God. Oh...and stay alive. And maybe get back together with Tulip.

The plot will keep you on the edge of your seat. I'm quite sure that Volume 1 is just the tip of the iceberg, as far as the storyline goes. And I can not wait to run out and buy the next edition!! Sick and twisted it may be. But so am I, so it's all good!! If you don't offend easily, I would HIGHLY recommend this series. It fun, rough...and in the end, will probably make you think! 4.75/5

Short Story Sunday

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 18:11:00 +0000

I really meant to post this LAST Sunday. I'm almost finished with the book (only the Charlie Parker Novella left) and yet, I've only posted one Short Story Sunday. It looks like I'll be posting even after the challenge has finished!! Once again, selections are being taken from John Connolly's awesome book of shorts, Nocturnes! This book has some seriously great short stories!

The New Daughter. "In truth, I cannot recall the first time I noticed the change in her behavior. She was always developing, altering -- or so it seemed -- with each passing day. The story of a single father who decides to move his children to the country and get out of the city. He bought an old rectory set on acres of land. The house had been on the market for ages, and at first, it seemed a steal. Until he started attributing the changes in his daughter on the house. Or rather on the mound that was located in one of the fields on the property. A "burial" mound, or so said some of the locals. What was actually buried there? And did it have anything to do with the strange scraping sounds that could be heard outside the bedroom windows at night? (When he woke one night to find his daughter at the edge of his bed. And she said: "I'm not Louisa. I'm your new daughter". I got chills!)

The Ritual of the Bones. "The headmaster's voice was the voice of God". This is the story of Jenkins, one of the two scholarship students at The Montague School, one of the most prestigious prep schools in all of England. Only the wealthiest, most elite families had children at The Montague School. But once every ten years, a couple of scholarships were doled out to worthy students. As with any prep school, there were rituals and pomp and circumstance. But one of the strangest was the ceremony when certain select upperclassmen were presented with small velvet boxes -- each one containing a bone. Where did the bones come from...and what was the REAL Ritual of the Bones?

The Furnace Room. "The Thibault company once made locomotives and carriages for the railroads, famous names that ran on lines all across the Northeast: green cars for Wicasset and Quebec; green and red for Sandy River; yellow and green for Bridgton and Saco. This is the story of a loner with a secret past who drifts into town looking for a job. One day on a walk along the waterfront, he sees a sign for a Night Watchman at the old Thibault company. Seems like an easy job, at least until the night he hears noises. And sees strange creatures going to the "Furnace Room". But what really gets him, is seeing his wife there. The wife he had killed.

The Underbury Witches. "Steam and fog swirled together upon the station platform, turning men and women into gray phantoms and creating traps for unwary out of carelessly positioned cases and chests." The town of Underbury has a sordid history. In 1628, Ellen Drury and her sisters were executed for witchcraft. Now, 200 years later, Sergeant Stokes and Inspector Croft of Scotland Yard are called to the town of Underbury to investigate the mysterious death of a local man. A man that wasn't exactly the nicest man around. A man that had a history of abuse towards women. But what animal could have caused the death? Because surely the wounds inflicted on Mal Travers were not made by a human. But if it wasn't an animal, what could it have been? And what secret are the women of Underbury hiding?

I'll leave it at 4 stories this week. 4 really GOOD stories. I have to say that The New Daughter was probably the creepiest of all that I read this week. Seriously, I got chills reading this one (AND I see they are making a movie based on this story. With Kevin Costner. Interesting.) If you like creepy, scary short stories, I highly recommend this book!! John Connolly definitely knows how to set the mood!! Although the RIP IV Challenge will be over, I'll be back next Sunday to finish up my review of this book!! Till then, happy reading !!

End of Read-a-Thon Survey

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 11:10:00 +0000

Each year of the read-a-thon, I think "Next year, I'll get a chance to participate". I never do get to read, but I did get to cheer this year. Only for about an hour at the beginning. And the final 8 hours or so. But it's been a lot of fun, even if I didn't get to spend as much time as I would have liked. But I thought I would finish off with the Ending Survey:

1. Which hour was most daunting for you? Since I'm a third shifter, the first couple of hours were the worst. I hadn't been to bed yet!! These last few hours, I've been wide awake!

2. Could you list a few high-interest books that you think could keep a Reader engaged for next year? This year has been such a great year of reading for me. I would suggest quick, fast-paced reads like The Hunger Games, Catching Fire, and The Knife of Never Letting Go. Books that make your heart almost stop!

3. Do you have any suggestions for how to improve the Read-a-thon next year? Nope. From what I saw, the read-a-thon was a total success!

4. What do you think worked really well in this year’s Read-a-thon? Everything!!

5. How many books did you read? Only a cheerleader. I did finish 3 short stories tonight though!

6. What were the names of the books you read? short stories from John Connolly's Nocturnes

7. Which book did you enjoy most? N/A

8. Which did you enjoy least? N/A

9. If you were a Cheerleader, do you have any advice for next year’s Cheerleaders? Have fun! Visit as many blogs as you can....and try to visit new-to-you blogs. It's always fun meeting new people!

10. How likely are you to participate in the Read-a-thon again? What role would you be likely to take next time? I will always participate in same way, shape or form. If I could be a reader, I definitely would do it. But just cheerleading has been a lot of fun. Hopefully, I made at least one person smile tonight. If so, my work here is done!

My Memory of Dewey

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 04:25:00 +0000

Although I wasn't able to participate this year in the Read-a-thon as a reader, I still wanted to take the time to share in the Dewey Love-fest. I remember the day I read on her blog about her untimely passing and it really hit me hard. Sometimes I'm amazed at how incredibly drawn I am to this community. And with that, the incredible friendships I have made. Make no mistake about it: The friendships that have been made in this online community are indeed real. When I'm feeling down, all I have to do is visit a blog or jump on Twitter to find someone to talk to.

When I first started blogging, I didn't realize how many book bloggers were out there. One of the first people to visit me and make me feel welcomed was Dewey. She was larger than life, and her blog was big and had so many visitors, I was blown away by her stopping to read and comment on my little blog. She was so nice and smart. And she always took the time to leave comments.

I remember, I was having a hard time with Chad. He had been diagnosed with ADD, and I had reluctantly put him on medication when he was in 3rd grade. A few years into the process, I still had so many concerns, I posted about it. Dewey made certain to email me off-post, because she had some things she wanted to discuss with me. Over the course of a few weeks, we talked about the subject and she really had some incredible insights into the situation. It was so nice to bounce ideas off someone who wasn't so personally involved, and she made me feel so much better about the decision that I ultimately made.

Her death left such a hole in the community, and in all our hearts. I wish I had some eloquent words to adequately describe her, and how much I miss her. But I don't. What I can say is this. Dewey was a kind and gentle soul. And she is missed. Daily. But thanks to all of you, her light will forever shine on. With the continuation of the Bookworm Carnivals, the Read-a-thons and the Weekly Geeks, Dewey will stay with us. So, thank you. Just know that I love all of you very much.

Library Loot, a Couple of ARC's and a Cheerleader....Again!

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 08:51:00 +0000

Every since our library system went online, I've been grabbing books left and right. It is just so easy to log on to the system, look up the books that I'm interested in, and click that little button that says "hold". Now, each week, one of the friendly librarians call me and say my holds have come in. I have books waiting for me. When I had to ask someone to order the books for me, I had far fewer ILL books checked out. Sometimes, I think that would be better. I'm not the quickest reader these days. Just not enough time. And yet, I still have over 40 books checked out from the library!! Crazy, I tell you. Just crazy!

But some are must have's. Others are whims. And some, I've been waiting on for awhile. So without further adieu, this week's library loot:

First and foremost, is The Ask and the Answer by Patrick Ness. I debated for about a minute on requesting this book. It's the sequel to The Knife of Never Letting Go. But as much as I want to read this one, I'm worried that I'll be even more uptight once I finish. I mean, what will I do till the trilogy is finished??? How will I ever sleep at night?? But, in the end, I couldn't wait. Had to order it right away.

Make Lemonade by Virginia Euwer Wolff is actually book 1 in a trilogy of books. Because book 2 is on the list of Michael Printz Award books, I figured I'd better read Book 1 first! It is one of my big quests to read every book on this list by the end of next year!

The Night Watch by Sergei Lukyanenko is a books about vampires. It is a Russian book that is the first in a series. I'm reading it A. for the Orbis Terrarum challenge and B. because it's a vampire book (and do I really need a reason to read a vampire book???)

SOOOO many people have told me that I need to read one of Michelle Moran's books. So, I requested Nefertiti. I love the cover. I love the time period. And hopefully, I will love the book itself!!

The next book is Geektastic: Stories from the Nerd Herd. This is one of those books that I have seen popping up all over the internet. It's a book of short stories by YA authors. And it looks really good. Sounds like a great addition to the "pile"!

Monster by A. Lee Martinez is a total impulse pick-up. You know how I'm distracted by shiny objects? Well, this cover is a total shiny object. I saw it and was captivated!! A cool cover is half the battle. Hopefully the book will be as good as the cover.

Elfland by Freda Warrington is another totally impulse pickup. I was skimming the books in the New Books section of our library, when this one caught my eye. A beautiful cover. A story of faeries. And magic. Couldn't get a book that sounds more perfect!

Cirque du Freak: Book 1 A Living Nightmare by Darren Shan is the first book in the Cirque du Freak series. The kids want to see the movie, The Vampire's Assistant. Figured I might want to read a few of the books and see if I like the series.

Heart-Shaped Box by Joe Hill is a book I've wanted to read forever. I actually bought it when it was released. Then it was stolen by my brother, and I haven't seen it since! Decided it would be a good book to finish up the RIP challenge....so I just decided to get it from the library. Who knows? Maybe I'll actually see my copy again someday!

Another impulse pickup is Zombie Blondes by Brian James. Isn't that like the creepiest cover??? Besides, it's another zombie book, and right now I'm all about the zombies!!

Fallen by Lauren Kate is an ARC that I received in the mail this week. Not sure if I'll like it. The whole Fallen Angel thing may be getting a bit overdone these days. Let's hope for a better book that Hush, Hush.

The Wrong Mother by Sophie Hannah is another ARC that I received for review. It's a murder mystery/thriller. Looks like it could be good!!

Finally, today is Dewey's Read-a-Thon!! Although I can't participate because of work, I will be cheering y'all along, especially in the wee hours of the night. When you need the most cheering. So, I'm getting my pom poms out....dusting them off, and gearing up for a long night. Good luck to all who are participating!!

Wednesday Randomness

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 10:21:00 +0000

I have a question to ask all of you, dear readers. Now that I've finished reading The Knife of Never Letting Go, I'm having problems getting into another book. I've tried starting a couple. I've read a few short stories. I'm working on a graphic novel. But I just can't sink my teeth into anything. Do you ever have this problem: when you finish a book that completely exceeds expectations; a book that is just so good you can't even review it properly; do you have a hard time reading something else?? I've hit slumps before. Usually a good book pulls me OUT of a slump, not puts me IN one! But I can't think of any other reason I'd be having problems. This is my favorite reading time of the year!!

I really wish I was able to read in Dewey's Read-a-thon this weekend. :( So sad, but I'm working. I'll be checking in periodically. Mostly just to cheer y'all on!! I'll be the one online when everyone else is asleep!! I keep seeing everyone's stack of books for the big day, and it just makes me sad. One of these days....speaking of that, Bethany posted this last night. If you can't make Dewey's Read-a-thon, she's hosting another 24-hour read-a-thon on Dec. 5th. I'm thinking this one might actually be doable for me!! We'll see if the stars line up just right!! Regardless, if you have the time, join in the fun!

Not much else going on right now. The only thing that seems to be holding my reading attention right now is a graphic novel by Garth Ennis: Preacher: Gone to Texas. It's bloody and violent as all hell....but I'm having a lot of fun with it. My little brother recommended it. We've been emailing/tweeting/facebooking lately. He gave me a huge laundry list of Graphic Novels to pick up. The boy is warped, so who knows what he'll have me reading!! Of course, you'll find out soon, I'm quite sure.

On the home front, Miss Bella came home from school yesterday literally jumping up and down. The 4th graders are putting on a Christmas play this year: Santa Goes Green (how environmentally friendly can you get?). She tried out for the female lead of Mrs. Santa Claus. She's been talking about it for weeks. And guess what? She got the part!! She's SOOOOOO excited. AND she has a solo to sing. Not a whole song, but a verse. And lots of lines to learn. It's going to be work, but I can't wait. The excitement on her little face was enough to make my entire week!!

We were supposed to do a "haunted house" this past weekend, but the girls got skittish at the last minute. But we've been thinking about taking Friday off and hauling Chad up to Joliet for the Statesville Prison Haunted House. It seriously looks like the thing nightmares are made from, but Chad and Mike are just drooling over the idea. Me? Saw a trailer of it....and saw me some clowns. I can handle just about anything but that. They really creep me out!

This is like my new favorite song. I heard it on Eastwick the other night, and I just HAD to find it. Isn't it great?? It's called No Heaven by DJ Champion!!

That's about it for me today. Just not much going on. Not much to talk about. Hopefully, I can change that in the next few days. Till then....later!!

The Knife of Never Letting Go - Is it as Good as the Hype??

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 04:11:00 +0000

And that certainly is a fair question to ask. For this seems to be the "year of the Hype". At least for me. I've been enthralled by both The Hunger Games and Catching Fire. Entranced by The Graveyard Book. Underwhelmed by the first few Fablehaven books. And blown away by the awesomeness of Looking for Alaska. And since I always seem to be just one step behind everyone else, I find myself reading books that have already gone viral across the net. And as such, I always brace myself for disappointment. I always fear that a book that has been toted by everyone and their brother will leave me with just a so-so feeling. And I HATE disappoint. I'm not sure where I'm going to go with this review, but I can tell you this: The Knife of Never Letting Go: Chaos Walking, Book One by Patrick Ness (496 pgs, Candlewick, 2008) most certainly did NOT disappoint! I'm using this book as a selection for both the RIP IV Challenge and the YA Dystopian Challenge.

The first thing you find out when yer dog learns to talk is that dogs don't got nothing much to say. About anything.

Todd Hewitt is a twelve-year-old boy living in Prentisstown in the New World. The New World is a another planet that was settled years ago by people who wanted a simpler way of life. But when they reached the New World, they encountered an alien race known as the Spackle. And there was war. A war in which a germ was released that caused the "noise". This germ not only killed all the women in the New World, but most of the men. Only the men of Prentisstown are left. And they have the "Noise" disease. They can hear each others thoughts, or noise as its called. And although this sounds pretty cool in theory, being able to read eveyone's thoughts makes for a big jumbled mess most of the time. So many thoughts coming at you in all directions is enough to drive a person crazy. But this is the only world Todd has ever known.

Both his mother and father died during the war. Todd lives with friends of his mother's, Ben and Cillian, and his dog, Manchee. Prentisstown is the only settlement left from when the settlers arrived on the New World. But just 30 days before Todd's 13th birthday (the one that means he's a "Man"), something happens on his walk through the swamp. Something that causes him to go on the run from everyone and everything he has ever known. And, boy is his world turned upside down!

That's about all I can say about this book without giving away any part of the plot. And I think going in blind is the best possible way to read this book. Now...on to what *I* thought of it:

I had to give myself a day or two's time to let the story sink in before I could write this review. Is it at all possible to love a book and hate the same book all at once? Because if it is, that's how I feel about it! I know I read a couple of reviews that said this could possibly be a new favorite of all time. I'm not going to go that far. No way this book is going on the list past The Stand or To Kill a Mockingbird. I may change my mind when I'm done reading the Trilogy. But as a stand alone book, not a chance. I need closure in my life. I really HATE when a book leaves you with a huge cliff-hanger ending. And that is exactly what Ness does at the end of this one.

Reading The Knife of Never Letting Go is like riding on a roller coaster. It starts off at a real nice pace, then BAM! It kicks into high gear and doesn't stop until the final page. Not that this is necessarily a bad thing. But there is no chance to catch your breath. It is so intense that you can almost feel your heart beating at times. It is an emotional read. It will absolutely tear at your heart-strings. And it is very violent and extremely graphic.

And there is another thing: I actually felt physically exhausted when I had finished reading this book. I can not remember the last time that happened to me. There is at least one scene in the book that left me so drained, I could barely get out of my chair. I felt like I had been kicked in the gut, my heart ripped from my chest and stomped on. I was so angry I wanted to throw the book out the door! And yet, I picked it up again and continued reading.

All of the things I've said sound really negative. And I don't mean it exactly like that. Those are a few of the reasons I said I hated this book. Some of the reasons I loved the book: the wonderful characters. Characters that were written so well, I could picture them vividly in my head. Characters that were so real to me I cried and screamed when something happened to them (and trust me, there is a LOT that happens). Protagonists so human that it's impossible not to completely empathize with them. A dog that could possibly be the greatest character ever written. (I now see why I could never be a cat person. Dogs are just too loyal and sweet!) And a villain that was so evil, it made me see red each time I even stumbled across his name.

There is also a fantastic story to go along with the great characters. It is dystopian in nature, which I love anyway. But the world Ness created is just incredible. The whole concept of the "noise" is unique. You would think it would be impossible to keep secrets in a world where everyone can read each others minds, but in fact, this world has MORE secrets than anywhere I know! And it's written in such a way that it is completely believable. Take this quote:
"Cuz knowledge is dangerous," he says, as serious as I've ever seen him and when I look into his Noise to see what he's hiding, it roars up and slaps me back.

But don't kid yourself. This is not a fun, light read. There is a stab-you-through-the-heart intensity that is hard to like. It is gritty and violent. And sometimes you are so overwhelmed with sadness that you physically ache. But if the sign of a good book is the fact that the author has made you feel something, then this is a great book because it engulfs you with FEELING. Even with the portions of the book that I hated, I'm still giving it a 100% 5 star rating. It was that good. Will it ever surpass my favorite books? Probably not. But I do reserve the right to revisit the topic when I complete the trilogy! 5/5

Fall Festival Recipe Exchange

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 05:00:00 +0000

Amy, from My Friend Amy, had another one of her "Brilliant" ideas. This time: a Fall Festival Recipe Exchange! I love cooking, when I have the time, and I'm always on the lookout for new ideas. Especially baking. So, please help add to my recipe book!!

I know a lot of people think "pumpkin" when they think about fall. Personally, I've never been a big pumpkin fan. My personal favorite this time of year are apples. We have a place about 30 miles from here where you can go pick apples. They have a bakery, with homemade apple cider donuts (YUM), apple pies, apple cakes. They also have a huge pumpkin patch, where the kids pick out the pumpkins they want to carve for Halloween.

I try to take the kids apple picking every fall. But we always end up with way too many apples. There are so many apples you can eat in a day. So many pies to bake. Because of this, I started looking for other, easy apple recipes. I found two that I really love, and thought I would share them both. (I know you said one, but I never can do things quite by the rules, can I?)

The first is a recipe for a German Apple Cake. My grandmother used to make this for us, and it was SO good. And moist. My kids just love it (of course, I think it has more to do with the cream cheese frosting than the cake itself!)

INGREDIENTS
3 eggs
2 cups sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 cups tart apples - peeled, cored and chopped
3/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
FROSTING:
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
2 teaspoons butter, softened
2 cups confectioners' sugar

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, oil and vanilla. Combine the flour, cinnamon, baking soda and salt; add to egg mixture and mix well. Fold in apples and nuts. Pour into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees F for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack.

2. In a small mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter. Add confectioners' sugar, beating until smooth. Spread over cake. Refrigerate leftovers.

See...easy!! The second is for Baked Apples in a Caramel Cream. Just a slight variation of regular baked apples, but so yummy!

INGREDIENTS
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1/4 cup hot water
4 large Rome beauty apples, cored
1 tablespoon lemon juice
12 individually wrapped caramels, unwrapped
1/2 cup whipping cream

DIRECTIONS
Combine brown sugar and water in an 9-in. square baking dish. Peel the top half of each apple; brush with lemon juice. Place in the baking dish. Fill each with three caramels. Bake at 350 degrees F for 60-65 minutes or until apples are tender, basting every 20 minutes. Carefully lift apples, allowing any caramel in centers to drip into pan, and place in individual dessert dishes. Pour sauce into a small saucepan; add cream. Cook and stir over medium-low heat until sauce is smooth and thick. Spoon over apples; Sprinkle with a little brown sugar and Cinnamon. Serve immediately.

Many Thanks to Amy for hosting!! If you have a recipe to add, please be sure to post and link up to Amy's Festival Mr. Linky!!

A Few New Challenges

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 10:03:00 +0000

Goodness, it's been WEEKS since I've signed up for a challenge!! I didn't honestly realize how many challenges take place everyday in the book blogging world. When I first started blogging, I signed up for EVERYTHING. But with the influx of book bloggers and the subsequent increase in challenges, as well as my final realization that I would never be able to complete them all, I've kind of taken a break from them. But every great while a good one comes along, and I'm in. For better or worse!

Hosted by Bart's Bookshelf, the YA Dystopian Reading Challenge just kind of jumped out at me!! YA and Dystopian/speculative fiction are two of my very favorite genres. Put them both together: even better. The challenge takes place from October 15 to the end of the year (shhhhhh, I already started my book!)

"Dystopia (from the Greek δυσ- and τόπος, alternatively, cacotopia, kakotopia, cackotopia, or anti-utopia) is the vision of a society in which conditions of life are miserable and characterized by poverty, oppression, war, violence, disease, pollution, nuclear fallout and/or the abridgement of human rights, resulting in widespread unhappiness, suffering, and other kinds of pain. (Source: Wikipedia)"

The idea is to have fun with this, and as I know with the year-end rapidly approaching, thoughts will be turning to completing all the other challenges we are all signed up to! So your level of participation is up to you, simply pick a target of between 1 & 4 books to read during the two and a half months of the challenge.

It’s that easy.

Those are the rules. That's it. 1 - 4 books by the end of the year is something I can accomplish. Although you don't have to make a list, I usually do. It's easier for me to keep track, although I always reserve the right to change my mind and change books!!

The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness (I'm reading this right now. Oh it is SO Good!)
The Ask and the Answer by Patrick Ness (I have a feeling, I will HAVE to read this book after I finish the first!)
The Dead and the Gone by Susan Beth Pfeffer
Uglies, Pretties, Specials, Extras by Scott Westerfeld (doubt I can get through all of them, but I'd love to get a start on the series! )
Feed by M. T. Anderson
Exodus by Julie Bertanga

Oh, yeah. I'll be able to get some great books out of that list!!

The Countdown 2010 Challenge is hosted by Michelle from 1 More Chapter. I haven't participated in this one before, but I like the idea! It's a countdown through the decade. 10 from 10, 9 from '09, 8 from '08....you get the picture.

The goal of this challenge is to read the number of books first published in a given year that corresponds to the last digit of each year in the 2000s — 10 books from 2010, 9 books from 2009, 8 books from 2008, etc. The total number of books required, therefore, is 55.
This challenge lasts from 9/9/09 through 10/10/10.
Crossovers with other challenges are allowed and your lists may change at any time.
Sign up using Mr. Linky.
Have fun reading!

So far, I don't have a list. That will be forthcoming. I need to do a lot of research on this one. But the lists are the best part of the challenges!

Finally, the Childhood Favorite reads 2009 - 10 is hosted by Deb from Debbie's World of Books. It's a chance to go back and read some of your favorites from your youth! I'm a little late in starting this one. It started on the 2nd, but hey. Who cares, right?

Guidelines:
Read 5 books that were favorites while growing up
If you would also just like to write a post high lighting your favorite book or series feel free to
Post your reviews or book/series highlight here
Challenge starts today and will end June 30, 2010.
I will do summary posts periodically highlighting the reviews added so far.

My list will look something like this:

Nancy Drew Mysteries by Carolyne Keene
Trixie Belden Mysteries by Julie Campbell
The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
The Time Quartet by Madeleine L'Engle

OK, dear Readers. Let's get started!!

Another Week, Another Library Loot Post

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 09:09:00 +0000

I had hoped that my time off work with my shoulder would free up oodles of time to read. Unfortunately, the pain medication I was on made it virtually impossible to read. One minute I'd be turning pages of my book, and the next minute I'd be sound asleep! On the bright side, I I caught up on a lot of much needed sleep!! I did, however, check out a couple of season of the Gilmore Girls from the library and a couple of season of Supernatural. And I overdosed on them!

Now, I am back to work again. Not quite 100%, but I do feel a lot better. I have a feeling it will be quite a while before I'm completely healed, but I can't really afraid any more time off at the moment. I had to return a few books to the library without reading them. It always kills me to do that, but I know when I check out 30 books at a time, there's no way I'll be able to read them!! This week, I had a few stray holds come in. That, and I grabbed up some graphic novels that caught my eye. Should make for some interesting reading!

American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang was actually one of the first graphic novels I remember seeing out there in blogosphere. Although it doesn't really seem like my thing, I picked it up to read as a part of Dewey's Reading Challenge.

I think I first saw the Bone Series of Graphic Novels by Jeff Smith over at Chris's blog. I know others have review these books, Chris is the one that made ME want to read them. I was cruising the shelves at Alpha Park and I realized that had the whole series. Figured it couldn't hurt to at least try the first one!

Girl Genius, Volume 1: Agatha Heterodyne and the Beetleburg Clank, A Gaslight Fantasty with Adventure, Romance and Mad Science by Phil and Kaja Foglio is another total whim pickup. But come on. Who could pass up anything with a name like that? Doesn't it look like fun? Ana has been trying to take this one from me. I'll let her read it. It's way more appropriate that the Fables GN's she wants to read!!

If you think reading Graphic Novels is new to me, let me tell you a secret. I've never actually read anything that could be remotely labeled as Manga. Fruits Basket is a series they had in my library. It's pretty popular. Thought I would give it a try.

I think I said before that Zombies are the new Vampires. I've seen more Zombie books that ever lately. Generation Dead by Daniel Waters is one of them. It looks interesting. And it IS that time of year!! I think all the rest of the books I've checked out are RIP related!!

The Strain by Guillermo Del Toro is a book that I heard about from Carl. Vampires. What more could a person ask for during RIP? If Carl liked it, then I'm pretty sure I will too!! Besides, Del Toro directed Pan's Labyrinth, and it was fantastic...so this is bound to be good!

The Alchemy of Stone by Ekaterina Sedia is a steampunk fable. I haven't read much in the way of steampunk, but I like the concept. Figured I would give it a go.

Living Dead Girl by Elizbeth Scott is another book that has made it's way around the blogosphere lately. Sounds eerie enough to be a good RIP book.

Gil's All Fright Diner by A. Lee Martinez just has a really cool cover. I've read a couple of reviews and it sounds like fun!

Finally, Shirley Jackson's We Have Always Lived in the Castle is a short little tale by a master of the gothic scary tale. A perfect addition to the RIP challenge.

Book 2 of Suzanne Collins' Gregor Series

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 17:32:00 +0000

Now that Chad has succeeded in getting Mommy hooked on a new series, I had to hurry up and finish book # 2. He checked it out of his school library and it was due back this week. (on a side note, he also succeeded in talking his teacher into accepting his Hunger Games and Catching Fire reads as AR credit by lending her his copy of CF. God, I love that kid!) So, Book # 2 in a five book series is Gregor and the Prophecy of Bane (312 pgs, Scholastic, 2004).

When Gregor opened his eyes he had the distinct impression that someone was watching him. He glanced around his tiny bedroom, trying to keep as still as possible. The ceiling was empty. Nothing on his dresser. Then he saw it sitting on the windowsill, motionless except for the delicate twitching of its antennas. A cockroach.

After Gregor had returned from the Underland with Boots and his father, he thought everything would be great again. But his father didn't return in the same condition in which he left. He was sick, and his mind just wasn't the same after all those years of captivity with the rats. He couldn't work, and there was never much food for the kids. But they were together again, and that was all that mattered.

One day, close to Christmas, Gregor took Boots to Central Park to sled. He couldn't do much for the family in the way of money, but he wanted to help out out all he could. But with all the family problems on his mind, he wasn't paying complete attention to Boots, and the next thing he knew she was gone! When he took the time to access where he was, he realized he was close to one of the waterways back to the Underland. And when he found the grate to the opening, he found a giant cockroach antennae! It seems that something had come from the Underland to take Boots. As he was trying to find the waterway, a couple of giant rats found Gregor. But luckily for him, Ares, his bat friend and bond, was waiting to take him to Regalia. It seems that the roaches had been watching the family. The rats had planned on stealing Boots and they wanted to protect her. And now that Gregor was back, it seemed that his help was needed once again. Another prophecy foretold of his actions. This one against the Bane, a giant white rat that would lead them to victory if it was allowed to live.

If Under Fell, If Over Leaped

If Life was Death, if Death Life Reaped

Something Rises from the Gloom

To Make the Underland a Tomb.

Hear it Scratching Down Below

Rat of Long-Forgotten Snow

Evil Cloaked in Coat of White

Will the Warrior Drain Your Light?

What Could Turn the Warrior Weak?

What do Burning Gnawers Seek?

Just a Barely Speaking Pup

Who Hold the Land of Under Up.

Die the Baby, Die His Heart

Die His Most Essential Part.

Die the Peace that Rules the Hour

Gnawers have Their Key to Power.

If the gnawers kill Boots, it seems that Gregor, the Warrior won't be able to protect the Underland anymore. And Gregor is NOT going to let that happen.

Once again, Collins leads us on a fantastic journey of the Underland. We are introduced to more characters. Some are members of the Royal family: Luxa's cousins. And a few more creatures from the Underland. If the first book was good, this one is even better!! As a reader, you are even more vested in emotion with the people and creatures that take part in the next quest. Gregor, has grown and matured. But one thing hasn't changed: his love for family, above all else. The lengths he is willing to go through to save and protect his sister is astounding. And it makes your heart feel all warm and fuzzy!

I wish everyone would read this series. I realize it's aimed at middle school/junior high students. But the life lessons are there for everyone. And Collins is grade A, #1 at weaving a story so tantalizing, that you won't want to put the book down until you have finished!! Take my advice and get this book for you and your kids. But get to it first, because the kids might not give it back!! 4.5/5

Short Story Sunday - Nocturnes by John Connolly

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 15:25:00 +0000

I woke up this morning feeling the chill in the air. Autumn has arrived in all it's wonderful glory!! (actually, I don't think summer was every really here. I remember spring, then lots and lots of rain. Now, Autumn!) It's in the low 50's, and I'm getting the kids ready for Chad's football game. But before I go, I wanted to do a Short Story Sunday Post.

I'm pretty sure the last Short Story Sunday I participated in was last year, during the RIP challenge. In fact, it seems the only short stories I ever read are during RIP. I've never really been a big fan. It takes a special writer to be able to do the short story right. It's hard to create characters that people want to get to know and care about in only a few short pages. Neil Gaiman can do it. So can Stephen King. Joe Hill has a little of his daddy's talent as well. Can you tell the only short stories I read are spooky?? I've tried a few others, but none really captured my interest too well. Until now.

A few years ago, I read a wonderful book called The Book of Lost Things by John Connolly. I can not begin to tell you how much I loved this little treasure. (Instead, I'll just point you to my review. I gushed enough here.) Suffice it to say, if you haven't read the book, it's a wonderfully dark, sinister fairy tale and worth ever second you have the cover opened.

But today, we are going to talk about John Connolly's book of short stories: Nocturnes. I've missed the first half of the RIP Shorts Challenge, but I won't miss another Sunday.

The Cancer Cowboy Rides is the first story in the collection, and one of the longest. The cowboy's name was not Buddy Carson. The cowboy didn't have a name, not now. There may have been one a long time ago, but if there was, then it had been lost to him for many years. Jim Lopez was the Chief of Police in the small hamlet of Easton, New Hampshire. It was quiet and small, a place where everyone knew your name. And he loved his town. Being Chief of Police was easy in a town like Easton. There was never a lot of trouble....at least there wasn't until the day Buddy Carson arrived in town and people started getting sick. Really sick. It seems that everywhere the cowboy touches, cancer seems to spread. And it's up to Lopez to save not only the ones he loves, but the entire town of Easton from the Cancer Cowboy.

Mr. Pettinger's Daemon is the story of Mr. Pettinger. He was a chaplain during World War II and had seen the horrors of war first hand. Now that the war had ended, he is trying to pick up the pieces of his mind and move on. The Bishop has decided to move him to the tiny parish of Chetwyn-Dark to recuperate. Mr. Fell, the minister there now has seemingly had a "crisis of faith", and needs to be replaced. It is up to Mr. Pettinger to find out what has been going on in this tiny parish. And to find out exactly what has been trying to dig itself out of the crypt that is directly beneath the church in Chetwyn-Dark.

Finally, we have The Erlking, which is the tale of something that goes bump in the night. The Erlking, that steals children away from the beds, never to be seen again.

I love this time of year!! I love the scary story and the urban legend. And I love tales of things that go bump in the night! I had to look up The Erlking to find it's origins. It is found a lot in old German poems and ballads and is described as a "malevolent creature who haunts forests and carries travelers off to their deaths". But Connolly's short story is based on a ballad by Goethe called Der Erlkonig, who preys on children, in the forest. And it literally sent shivers down my spine. Not bad for a story that's only 10 pages long!! Connolly definitely joins the ranks of Gaiman and King as a talented writer that can scare you with the short story!! (I know. This isn't much of a review. I have problems with reviewing Short Stories! Maybe next week will be better!) Till next week then!!

Enemies Unite in Morganville!

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 16:03:00 +0000

For some reason, I just can't seem to help myself when it comes to vampires. And yes, I know you already know that! Fortunately, the market is heavy on vampires and zombies right now. Especially in the YA lit department. But one of the better series in the mix is the Morganville Vampire Series by Rachel Caine. I don't know what there is about this one, but it is just SO readable! I just finished Book 4: Feast of Fools (256 pgs, Signet, 208). Since it IS that time of year, I'm using this as one of my selections for the RIP IV Challenge.

It was hard to imagine how Claire's day -- even by Morganville standards -- could get any worse...and then the vampires holding her hostage wanted breakfast.

I'm mean really. With an opening line like that, how can you not want to read this book/series?? As with every book in the series, Feast of Fools picks up immediately where Midnight Alley left off. Mr. Bishop has arrived in town and wants to meet with his daughter, Amelie. As the Founder of the Morganville, Amelie has always been the most powerful vamp in town. Until now. If things in Morganville were scary before, now they are downright terrifying. Unlike Amelie, Mr. Bishop couldn't care less about the humans. To him, they are just cattle. Nothing more than the next meal. The protections that have been placed don't mean anything to him or his vampire crew.

And if this wasn't bad enough, now Claire has to deal with the fact that Amelie has brought her parents to live in Morganville. At least, when they were not in Morganville, she could shield them from the horrors she faced on a daily basis. Now, not only are they going to learn the secret of the Vampires of Morganville, but she is going to have to worry about their safety as well as her friends' safety.

In the fourth installation of this series, enemies come together to fight side by side against an outside force that threatens their existence in Morganville. I wish I could explain why I like these books so much. Rachel Caine can write. She knows how to tell a story. And frankly, she doesn't pull her punches. The characters in her books go through a lot. Unlike a lot of the books out there that romanticize vampires, Caine does not. Her vampires are rather scary, in fact. They need the humans in town to survive, without exposing themselves to the world. But if push comes to shove, they will eat you!

Claire is still a great character. In past books, I've admired her smarts, strength and loyalty. Nothing changes in this book, except her confidence. She has grown from the shy, meek little girl to a much more confident, self-reliant woman. Her romance with Shane is heating up too. But as with all the other books, Feast of Fools ends with a major cliffhanger ending. In fact, it's almost cruel the way Rachel Caine leaves us hanging! I guess that means, I'll just have to keep on reading!! And if you start this series, you will too! 4/5

The Castle has been Captured!

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 05:16:00 +0000

One of the best things about book blogs, aside from getting to know like-minded people, are the book blogger recommendations. I have read numerous books that I wouldn't have picked up otherwise. For example, I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith (352 pgs, St. Martin's Press, 1948) is a book that I had not only never heard of, but I'm pretty sure I would never had even considered reading if it hadn't been for a review I read from Nymeth. Aside from the whole Tender Morsels ordeal (LOL), she has never disappointed. And I have to say, I fell in love with this book from the opening chapter! I'm using this as a selection for the What's in a Name II Challenge.

I write this sitting in the kitchen sink. That is, my feet are in it; the rest of me is on the draining-board, which I have padded with our dog's blanket and the tea-cozy. I can't say that I am really comfortable, and there is the depressing smell of carbolic soap, but this is the only part of the kitchen where there is any daylight left. And I have found that sitting in a place where you have never sat before can be inspiring -- I wrote my very best poem while sitting on the hen-house.

This is the story of the Mortmain family, in all their wonderful eccentricity. It is told by Cassandra Mortmain, youngest girl of the family, and aspiring writer, as she tries to "capture the castle". She lives with her family in an old English castle. The father, known only as Mortmain, was a famous writer. His one novel, was very successful, especially in the United States. But he has been suffering from writer's block every since....and is a tad bit on the crazy side. With no income for years, the family is basically dirt poor, having sold off all their valuable possessions just to have enough food to live on. They live with Mortain's second wife, Topaz, an artist's model and extremely free-spirit who exists only to be her husband's muse. And hasn't been able to accomplish it. The eldest sister, Rose, is self-centered at best. She hates being poor. Hates it with a passion, and would do just about anything to marry someone with money. Youngest child, Thomas, is just a schoolboy, but remarkable insightful. And rounding out the motley bunch, is Stephen. Stephen is the son of their former housekeeper. When she passed away, Stephen stayed on with the family. He's exceptionally handsome, though Cassandra finds him a bit "daft" (of course, he thinks the sun rises and sets on her!)

Things change very little in the Mortmain castle until the day the Cotton's move into Scoatney. The Cotton's are Americans who have inherited the estate, and with that become the new landlords to the Mortmains. Simon, as the eldest brother, is the actual heir to the land and in essence, the "wealthy" one. Neil, the younger more carefree brother wants to return to America to become a cattle rancher. Rose, in her desperation to get out of the poverty that has struck her family, decides that she is hopelessly in love with Simon and will do just about anything to get him to propose to her. And since Simon is rather scholarly, he and his mother are taken with Mortmain. Fans of his writing, they try to get him over his writer's block.

The story is told in journal format by Cassandra, who is sweet and gentle and kind. She's also smart as a whip and devoted to her family. Cassandra, in a word, is delightful! I usually tend to root for the more brash characters. But there is just something so endearing about Cassandra. "And that was all she ever did talk about it -- that was almost the worst part of the gloom, our not talking naturally. Never have I felt so separate from her. And I regret to say that there were moments when my deep and loving pity for her merged into a desire to kick her fairly hard. For she is a girl who cannot walk her troubles off, or work them off; she is a girl to sit around and glare." "That evening of the row was our lowest depths; miserable people cannot afford to dislike each other. Cruel blows of fate call for extreme kindness in the family circle." Cassandra is level-headed and wise beyond her years. She is charming and refreshingly honest in all her writings.

Rose drove me crazy though. She is vain and self-centered and annoying. And even though she tried to justify that her marrying Simon would help the family as a whole, she really was in it only for herself. She was obnoxious and the type of woman that sat back waiting for someone to give her something. The Cinderella waiting to be rescued by the Prince, instead of the Belle, who was out there doing the rescuing. And that just drove me crazy! But, in truth, it's how the character is written and Smith definitely did a great job in making me dislike her immensely!

Each character was so thoroughly fleshed out. It's like you actually knew the people that were being written about. And you cared what happened to them. I can't remember the last time I was so taken with the characters in a book. And I can't even begin to pick a favorite. Aside from Rose, each character has some strange but endearing qualities. And I loved them all!! A timeless story that will last forever, this is one book that I'm truly a better person for having read! Thank you, Nymeth!! A 100% definite 5-Star Rating!!! Will surely land on my list of favorite novels! 5/5

This Damned Shoulder.....

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 13:46:00 +0000

Just when I'm feeling good again, the clutz in me comes out! I slipped and fell in a big puddle of water (for the record, that wasn't my fault, and water on ceramic tile = trouble!). Fell on my ass, but stupid me, tried to catch myself. Just force of habit, I guess. I felt ok, until about 5 hours into my shift at the Red Cross, and my shoulder (the bad one) started stiffening up....badly. Left early for the ER.

On a positive note, it's not dislocated, separated or broken. On a negative note, it's sore as hell, and any further damage to the rotator cuff is undetermined. I can't go back to the Cross until I'm realized by a doc, so I'm on vacation right now. And I'm supposed to be back at the restaurant tonight, but I still have my arm in a sling. So I really don't think that's going to happen. I really need the money the restaurant provides. I'm losing daily right now....so a few words of good things my way might help me out just a bit!! A little mojo is never a bad thing!! Thanks, guys!

I have 3 reviews to write. At least I can still type!!

Winner of the Hush, Hush Giveaway!!

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 09:50:00 +0000

And here I bet you all thought I forgot!! No. I didn't forget. I just didn't get to it right away. Complete and utter difference!!

So...for my BBAW Giveaway, I ended up assigning everone a number. I give you the winner, from Random Generator #39:

Nikola of Nikola's Book Blog

Thanks so much everyone for visiting and entering!! I appreciate every comment!

The First Suzanne Collins Series

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 13:41:00 +0000

In our school systems, we have the Accelerated Readers Program. K - 8th are required to read a certain amount of books and take "quizzes" on them. You receive points based on the difficulty of the book and the amount of questions you get correct. Each child has a goal to complete for each quarter. After I bought Chad The Hunger Games and Catching Fire, he was hooked. But unfortunately, neither book is in our AR program. (On a side note, his teacher is now reading The Hunger Games and thinks Chad's a genius when it comes to books!) So, he went to the library and found ANOTHER series that is in the AR program by Suzanne Collins. He brought the book home to me, and said, "Mom, did you know Suzanne Collins wrote another series? No? Then you've GOT to read this book. She can sure write!". I figured if a book makes him excited to read, it's something I had better check out! The first book in the Underland Chronicles is called Gregor the Overlander (320 pgs, Scholastic, 2003).

Gregor had pressed his forehead against the screen for so long, he could feel a pattern of tiny checks above his eyebrows. He ran his fingers over the bumps and resisted the impulse to let out a primal caveman scream. It was building up in his chest, that long guttural howl reserved for real emergencies -- like when you ran into a saber-toothed tiger without your club, or your fire went out during the Ice Age. He even went so far as to open his mouth and take a deep breath before he banged his head back into the screen with a quiet sound of frustration. "Ergh." What was the point, anyway? It wouldn't change one thing. Not the heat, not the boredom, not the endless space of summer laid out before him.

For eleven-year-old Gregor, life has gotten tough. He is now the man of the family, since his father disappeared from his life a little over 2 years ago. And although Gregor held out hopes of finding out what really happened to his dad, it was starting to diminish. Since then, his mother had to return to work and the family was struggling just to make ends meet. And this summer, he couldn't even go to camp because someone had to stay with Boots, his precocious two-year-old sister. Although he loved Boots, there were so many other ways he would have liked to spend summer. The chores were endless and the days were boring.

Until the day he and Boots went to the basement of the apartment building to do some laundry. As he was sorting the clothes, Boots managed to get the grate off an old air duct in the corner. And just as Gregor was trying to grab her, she fell! Without even thinking, Gregor squeezed into the hole after her, and began to fall himself. And fall....and fall. He couldn't for the life of him figure out where he was falling to, but it couldn't end good!

But when they reached the bottom, eased down by a strange mist that was floating around, Gregor and Boots realized they were someplace that neither of them were supposed to be. They were surrounded by cockroaches. Giant cockroaches that stood over four feet tall. AND they could talk!! Gregor wasn't sure what to do, but Boots, with the naivete of a child befriended the bugs. And they loved her. So much so, they called her Princess. The Crawlers decided to take the kids to the Underlanders, the humans that inhabited the land. Having never actually seen the light, they were a pale people with silver hair and purple eyes. Queen Luxa, the fifteen-year-old heir to the Royal Underland throne met them at the gates of the city Regalia. She was young, bold and arrogant, and Gregor disliked her immediately. But Vikus, an older gentleman, seemed to really be the person in charge, and he immediately made the Overlanders feel welcomed. You see, Gregor's arrival was prophesied by Sandwich, the original inhabitant of the Underland. He led a contingency of people here and started his own kingdom.

In this strange land where animals could talk, everything seemed dangerous. Besides the talking roaches, there were also giant bats, spiders and rats....with the rats being the most dangerous of all. Led by King Gorgen, the rats longed to rule the Underland, and the Prophecy of Gray was the only thing that stood in his way. When the Underlanders met Gregor, they were sure he was the one the prophecy foretold: a hero warrior that has come to save them. But Gregor wants nothing more than to find his way back home again...until he learns of the last Overlander to have fallen: his father.

While this book was written for an intended audience that is certainly younger than The Hunger Games, it is still a complete an utter page-turner. And Chad was right: Suzanne Collins certainly knows how to tell a story!! She has created a great hero in eleven-year-old Gregor. He is smart, brave and loyal. He will do anything to keep his sister safe. And while Luxa may be arrogant, she is, in all actuality, just a scared little girl who's parents were killed by the Gnawers. She harbors a lot of ill-will because of it, too.

There are twists and turns throughout the story as the reader tries to decipher the Prophecy. And nothing is quite as it seems. I can't tell you how much I loved this story!! It was a quick read....and so much fun. Collins has created such a unique world with the Underland. And you end up CARING about what happens to them. It takes one hell of a writer for me to care what happens to a cockroach, that's for sure!!

This fantastic story is good for kids of all ages, and adults alike. Boys as well as girls. It is flat-out perfect for just about anyone. I've already started Book #2, The Prophecy of the Bane and am in love with it too!! So, if you ever see this little book lying around: do yourself a favor and read it!! You'll be glad you did!! 4.5/5

September 17, 1994

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 09:46:00 +0000

15 years ago today, Mike and I hauled our bad selves in front of family, friends, and God and said, "I do". It's been 15 years of good times as well as bad. But I did want to shout out to him today. Nothing long or gushy. Because honestly, that's not the way we are.

Lord...we didn't look half bad when we were younger and thinner!!

Thanks For Introducing Me to this Book!!! BBAW

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 07:30:00 +0000

From the BBAW Website, here is today's assignment:

Can you believe it’s already Day 4 of BBAW? Where has the time gone? Well hopefully you’ve discovered plenty of new book blogs to clog up your RSS feed readers and introduce you to more marvelous books throughout the year! But let’s talk about that book you know, the one you discovered only because you read about it on a book blog and then you realized you couldn’t live without it! And then you read it and you loved it so hard! Tell us about it and about the blogger (or bloggers!) that introduced the book to you!

Well, as you could probably tell from yesterday's 5 words answers, I don't do very well following directions!! It's not like I don't READ them. I do. I just choose to ignore them, and make up my own. Besides, since I've started blogging, I have read some of the most wonderful books!! And I'd have to say that 95% of the credit goes to bloggers. With that said, I'm going to list a few more than just one. Because, when you say that book, the one you can't live without - I say there are more than just one!!

When I started blogging, I discovered Neil Gaiman. I haven't read anything that he's written that has been a disappointment to me. Not in the least. But one of the best of his books so far has been Neverwhere. I read this one last year for the Once Upon a Time Challenge. It was through urging from Carl. Although Gaiman has legends of fans (me included), Carl could possibly be one of his biggest!!

Preludes & Noctures: The Sandman, Vol. 1 by Neil Gaiman is the very first graphic novel that I've ever read. Not only did I love it, I was blown away by the awesomeness of it!! The story itself is a first-rate fantasy tale, but the artwork is amazing. I can't remember exactly who the first person was to bring up this series, but I'd lay money on a couple of people: Carl, Chris, and Debi. And because it's a graphic novel, I'm throwing Nymeth in to boot. Because she is one of the people that pushed me into reading a GN in the first place.

Moon Called by Patricia Briggs is the first book in the Mercy Thompson series. There is just something so incredibly appealing to me about books with strong female characters. And Mercy is definitely one of the strongest. This isn't great literature, by any means. But it's escapism at it's best: it's fun, fast, and exciting. I first read about this from Kailana. She reads enough fantasy/paranormal/speculative fiction, that if she likes it, I'm positive I will too!

Looking for Alaska is another book that I give full-credit to bloggers for. It's quite possible the first review of this book came from the phenomenal Dewey. In fact, I'm sure that's the first place I saw it. But since that time, it was Nymeth, Chris, and most recently Debi that pushed me over the edge to read this WONDERFUL book. Have you ever felt like you were a better person for reading a certain book? THIS is one of those books.

I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith is such a new read for me, I haven't even had a chance to review it yet. In fact, I just finished it this morning. But I wanted to add it to the list because it was completely and utterly delightful!! And I wanted to give Nymeth peace of mind. Since I had a less than stellar reaction to one of her favorite books, I just wanted to let her know how fabulous I though I Capture the Castle was! So much so that I need to savour it for a few days before I write the review.

Don't forget to sign up for my Hush, Hush Giveaway!!

Happy BBAW!

BBAW Meme.....and a BBAW Giveaway!!

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 06:07:00 +0000

Today's "assignment" for BBAW is to complete a reading meme. It's one that is listed on the BBAW blog, so everyone can answer the same questions. The trick is to do it with few words. Anyone that knows me, will know this is an impossible task. I like words. I use them all the time. LOTS of them. To answer these questions in 5 words or less is well..... Ridiculous!! I'll try to shorten my answers, but don't count on them really being all that short!!

Do you snack while you read? Nope. Not usually. Unless you count Diet Pepsi.

If so, favorite reading snack? Did we decide Diet Pepsi was a snack or not? Still unclear. But if it IS a snack, that's my answer!

Do you tend to mark your books as you read, or does the idea of writing in books horrify you? NEVER mark up my books. Sacrilege!

How do you keep your place while reading a book? Bookmark? Dog-ears?Laying the book flat open? Bookmarks, if I ever have any (the girlies tend to steal them!) Usually just scraps of paper. Never dog-ear.

Fiction, Non-fiction, or both? Both. Mostly Fiction, though.

Hard copy or audiobooks? Hard Copy only.

Are you a person who tends to read to the end of chapters, or are you able to put a book down at any point? End of Chapter person. With anything else, there is no closure. I'm all about the closure!

If you come across an unfamiliar word, do you stop to look it up right away? Usually. I hate not knowing something. Immediately.

What are you currently reading? I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith and Book 2 of Gregor Series by Suzanne Collins (although I am told that The Knife of Never Letting Go MUST be my next read!)

What is the last book you bought? The Hunger Games for Chad's Birthday (and The Preacher: Gone to Texas by Garth Ennis - graphic novel for me!)

Are you the type of person that only reads one book at a time or can you read more than one at a time? Can do more than 1, but has to be different genres or the confusion sets in.

Do you have a favorite time of day and/or place to read? Any time/Any Place

Do you prefer series books or stand alone books? Either. (But I do like closure, as we discussed above)

Is there a specific book or author that you find yourself recommending over and over? The Stand by Stephen King. To everyone that will listen.

How do you organize your books? (By genre, title, author’s last name, etc.?) WHEN they are organized, it's by author.

Now that was fun, not all too taxing. Since it IS BBAW, I decided I would do a giveaway as well. Although I didn't love the book, there is a ton of buzz about it on the Internet these days. And since it isn't being released until October 13th, I thought I would giveaway my ARC copy of Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzgerald. I didn't love, but it doesn't mean you won't! It is a used copy. Try as I might to keep them perfect, there always ends up being at least a little reading wear on them!

Since this is for BBAW, I'm only running the giveaway for a couple of days. So enter quickly. Enter now!! All you have to do to enter is tell me your favorite read of 2009. No jumping through hoops. Not posting on your blogs. You don't even have to tweet it, if you don't want to. See? I'm pretty easy to get along with, aren't I? This contest is open worldwide, and my girlies will draw a name this Saturday: Sept. 19th!!

Thanks for stopping by, and Happy BBAW!!

BBAW Interviews and Some Left-Over Blogger Love!

stoland@ameritech.net (Stephanie) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 05:30:00 +0000

As you all, this week is Book Blogger Appreciation Week. If you blog for awhile, you find a niche and stick with it. I have made some great friends and found some great blogs. I didn't, however, realize until this week just how many book blogs are actually out there! I'm hoping by my day off Friday I get a chance to visit many of these "new-to-me" blogs.

One new blog Blog: Bookworm with a View. Mari is my interview parnter for today's assignment!! And just in case you want to follow her on Twitter, her name is BookwormMari.

And here is my interview with Mari:

Can you give my readers a little Background information: I met my husband when I was eighteen, we celebrated our 21st anniversary earlier this year. We have one son and three dogs. I work remotely (from home) in an international organization, which might explain why I appear online all the time (I support Singapore , UK , Brazil and Canada ). When I’m not working you will find me running, working out, practicing yoga, keep my house organized, and relaxing.

I also manage two book clubs, my local BC (The Omaha Bookworm’s) and an online BC for the Manic Mommies.

What made you start blogging in the first place? When I started my blog (last November) I had no idea anyone blogged! I thought my family was moving and wanted to post my book clubs book list somewhere. I had no idea this ‘world’ existed until this spring when an author asked me to include an interview on my site for an upcoming book club discussion. The interview was hosted by a blogger.

Have you always been a reader? I didn’t read much until I was a teenager. In seventh grade I was diagnosed with Dyslexia and relearned how to read. I have been reading ever since! I don’t remember reading a real novel until I was in junior high.

Does your family read? My husband used to read all the time but doesn’t read much these days. My son and I are the readers in our family.

What are you favorite types of books? Historical fiction or fiction with an educational element (about the medical industry, culture, etc). I like to learn while reading.

5 top all-time favorites and you can include classics, if you like: The English Patient, The Red Tent, The Poisonwood Bible, Anna Karenina, Resistance (to name a few)

Favorite author(s): Five years ago I would have said Anita Shreve. My expectations are high for her new book coming out later this month. I hear it’s wonderful.

A book you loved as a kid: I loved Judy Bloom as a young girl, Forever & Are you there God, it’s me Margaret.

A book you loved in high school: Okay this is not a book but hands down… Romeo and Juliet! In ninth grade I read all of Shakespeare’s work one semester and was beside myself the day I was asked to read Juliet and the boy I had a crush on read Romeo J. It’s the simple things….

And yes, I have some fun ones too!

Favorite Movie: About last Night

Favorite Food: Does a Starbucks coffee Frap count? I only let myself have one on a rare occasion.

Favorite Color: Green

Favorite Song: Living inside my heart, by Bob Seger

And finally, if you could have dinner with any 4 LITERARY CHARACTERS, who would it be: This would be easy if the invites were authors! I think these characters would make for a lively dinner though: Elizabeth Bennet, Anna Karenina, Dinah (The Red Tent) and Skeeter (The Help).

Thanks Mari!!! That was fun!

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Since I wasn't able to post yesterday, I just wanted to add just a few names to the blogger "lovefest" that went on! I have a few awards of my own that should be presented!

Michelle from Master Musings by Michelle is a very good friend of mine. I've known her for quite a few years, and hers should definitely earn an award for Best New Blog! She writes wonderful reviews that are not only well-written, but incredibly insightful. She's also a HUGE Twilight Fangirl!

Kailana from The Written World is like the Michael Jordan of reading. I think she is nearing 300 books this year, and it's only September!! Besides having fantastic taste in books, she's also a dear friend. If there was a blog award for Reading the Most, she'd win in a New York Minute!

Nicola from Back to Books. Nicola reads and reviews tons of children's and YA books. There are always great recommendations for my kids. And although we may disagree on a lot of topics, she is never afraid to state her opinions. And always in the nicest possible way. I repect her a lot, and consider her a friend, as well.

Carl from Stainless Steel Droppings. Carl is a super guy that has a passion for anything in the arts: literature, painting, photography, music, movies....and the list goes on and on. What makes Carl so special is his need to share this passion with everyone. Besides that, he is the GREATEST Challenge Host....EVER!

Finally, Nymeth from Things Mean Alot, Chris from Stuff as Dreams are Made On, and Debi from Nothing of Importance as the Bloggers that add the most books to my TBR!! All 3 are fantastic people. All 3 are considered my friends. And all 3 read books that somehow end up on MY TBR!! It's because they are all 3 so cool, smart and well....just like me!! (at least in the sense that we have very similiar belief systems!) In some alternate universe, I have a feeling we are all siblings...and somehow, here we just sort of got separated! The simple fact of the matter is, I feel closer to these people, that I have never even met, than I am to 95% of the people in my "real" life. And THAT is what blogging has done for me. I feel like I have come home! (just a special, special thanks to you 3!)

And those are just a few of the Awards that should have been presented!!