A Bookseller Recommends

Recently Finished

2012-02-25T12:48:00.004-06:00

Two-Way Street by Lauren Barnholdt

I've seen this book a thousand times. For some reason it always drew me in. Normally I don't read this kind of teen stuff - the whole dumped-girl-still-into-her-boyfriend-who-may-not-be-so-bad-after-all thing. That lame-o high school drama I never bothered with (I did college drama, which is just as lame, I now see, but whatever, I had a better time in college anyway, whoo!). Still, it looked like it could be cute, so I went with it. Courtney was perfectly happy. She was in love with Jordan. They were even going to go to the same college! Then Jordan dumped her for some chick he met on the internet. But they're still stuck on the same roadtrip to college together. Yay (lots of sarcasm on Courtney's part). Still, there's something about the breakup that Courtney doesn't know - and that Jordan really hopes she doesn't find out. It was a cute book, could have been a bit better, but still good for light, silly reading with no real expectations. But older internet goodies like MySpace makes me giggle - if this were written today, it'd be Facebook, but hey, who knew they'd go global?

Read the Epinions review here!

notes from the playlist: "Burning in the Skies" by Linkin Park

Recommended for New Insight

2012-02-18T13:01:00.002-06:00

Stuff by Randy Frost and Gail Steketee

This year I'm trying to focus on my To Be Read list since I have dozens of books written down but still havent' touched many of them. So instead of constantly picking out new things, I'm reading what's on the list (though not always following through with this particular plan *coughAMillionSunscough*). Stuff was something I'd found last year(ish) while putting books away that (lazy) people left out. Yes, I'd seen the show Hoarders, which is partially why I was interested in reading this in the first place. It's one of those kind of disorders that really gets your psychology brain going. What is it that makes a person keep so much stuff when so much of it is pure garbage (i.e. a candy wrapper, scrap of paper with non-legible writing on it, etc.)? Why can they not let go of things the way we do? Traumatic childhood incident? A higher functioning sensory and tactile part of the brain? Stuff goes through the cases of several hoarders, how they look at things, why they gather so much, and whether or not they are able to part with it. You do see some similarties that may mean psychologists are getting closer to understanding it, but there is still a long way to go. I found it to be a totally absorbing read, and I had trouble putting the book down.

Notes on the playlist: "Twisted Transistor" by Korn

Recently Finished and Recommended

2012-02-11T13:03:00.000-06:00

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

Okay, so when I read the first book in this trilogy, it was August of 2010. I really, truly did intend to get in on the second book soon after, but then thought I'd wait until the third came out so I could kill two birds with one stone (HA, pun unintended). Then life, the universe, and everything got in the way. So here we are, 2012 and I'm finally getting to the second book. However, the first book gets extra points because it was so strong, all the details stuck with me for this long - no need to worry about what happened before and getting lost now. That first book is pretty hard to forget. I had a great time with this one and breezed through it in no time flat. I've got a book in line after it (trying to actually get through my reading list this year), but after that Mockingjay is next.

The Capitol isn't happy with the little stunt that Katniss pulled in the last Hunger Games. It allowed both her and Peeta to survive - which is not supposed to happen. The people of the Districts view it as a symbol of rebellion. Katniss just wants to go home and be safe again. But changes are coming. Changes she can't stop. Changes that will affect everyone close to her - including Peeta. Changes that make the Capitol hate her so much, they'll devise a new and very special version of the Hunger Games this year...

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Still Alive" by GLaDOS

Purchased for My Shelf

2012-01-28T13:05:00.002-06:00

If Chins Could Kill: Confessions of a B Movie Actor by Bruce Campbell

Actually not so much purchased for myself so much as received as a gift for my shelf. And no, not as a gag gift. I've been curious about this book ever since I first saw it, oh, years ago. Since Bruce Campbell showed up as a slightly more serious act in Burn Notice, my favorite show since I-don't-know-when, I've been even more eager to read it. Bruce has had an interesting life, I'm sure, and he's a hilarious guy - not that I know him personally or anything. But you'd have to be a certain kind of ridiculous to willingly go into movies that are so, well, ridiculous that everyone loves you for them. If you don't know who this guy is, that's okay. He's a bit of a cult classic himself (I recommend starting with Army of Darkness and going from there). My father and I will watch absolutely horrendous movies if he's in them. I look forward to cracking this open and finding out what's behind the man who can get women into bed by saying, "Gimme some sugar baby." I don't doubt that I will be, at times, cracking up as well.

Notes from the playlist: "Gives You Hell" by The All-American Rejects

Currently Reading

2012-01-21T13:01:00.002-06:00

A Million Suns by Beth Revis

Originally (two days ago), I had decided that it was about time I get myself in gear and read the second book in The Hunger Games trilogy - Catching Fire. I really, really thought that was going to happen. But then, as I strolled into the back to see what books I could refill my displays with, I spotted it. A Million Suns. Sitting there on my cart, the cover all sparkly stars and colors of the universe. I immediately went into ridiculous-excited-geek-girl mode. This is the second book, coming in after Across the Universe. And that was all she wrote - Catching Fire was going to wait for another day (again). So far I'm just as engrossed in this book as I was the first one. Things just keep going wrong on the ship Godspeed, and I'm starting to wonder if my original theory is actually right. There are clues and mysteries and death - and Amy and Elder will have to solve all of them if they ever want to see another day. Even if that day is a fake one.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Map of the Problematique" by Muse

Recommended for Wild Fairytale Imaginations!

2012-01-14T12:59:00.006-06:00

The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making by Catherynne M. Valente

This was the final 2011 ABC Book Club book hosted by Calico Reaction. The one word I noticed most of us using when discussing this book was "delightful." That's because it is. It's an excellent fairytale that stems from the old styles like Alice in Wonderland and The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Valente knows how to use her colors, scents, textures, and more to really bring Fairyland to life as the protagonist, an ordinary girl named September, travels through it. She vows to return a spoon to a witch, stop the evil Marquess, keep her newfound friends A-Through-L and Saturday safe, and not eat any fairy food. Of course, the evil Marquess has the witch's spoon, the Marquess isn't actually what she appears to be, A-Through-L claims to be part library, and Saturday longs for the sea. Oh, and not eating fairy food is pretty much impossible. This is an excellent book for children, adults, or really anyone with an active imagination and loves to go on romps to forests where it is always autumn and towns that are made entirely of fabrics. Yippee!

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Kill Your Heroes" by Awolnation

Recommended for The New Year

2012-01-07T13:04:00.007-06:00

Future by DK Eyewitness Books

Welcome to 2012! What better way to celebrate than with a book about the future? It doesn't matter if you're an adult or a child - DK Eyewitness books are excellent and I am ashamed of having never recommended them before (since I do all the time in the store!). This particular DK book may not be available anymore, as it was made in 2004, but the neat part is that because of it's printing date, some of the inventions that lurk within its pages are now very real and very much in use. That in itself is just plain cool - to see what used to be out of our reach now in our hands. Science is an amazing thing, and kids who read DK books will learn all sorts of cool things, no matter what subject the book happens to be on (Dog is my personal favorite!).

Notes from the playlist: "Auld Lang Syne" by Lifescapes - Fireside Jazz

Recently Finished

2011-12-31T13:02:00.005-06:00

A Storm of Swords by George R.R. Martin

It's a new year tomorrow, and it's a new year in A Storm of Swords. This series just keeps getting better and better. The first book was good, the second rather interesting, but in this particular volume, the surprises and hits just keep coming and coming. I don't know why people don't listen to their wolves. At another point, I actually said, "Ooh!" out loud when a traitor was discovered. Who knew?? Things snarl and tangle faster than a nest of snakes in the land of Westeros, and across the lands Daenerys continues to build her forces stronger and stronger. I can't wait until her dragons are large enough to ride - or when she finally decides it is time to take Westeros for her own. And what lurks in the north? And just what god gives power to the dead to rise and walk and talk again? So many questions, so many stories. All of them engaging and unrelenting.

Notes from the playlist: "To Hell and Back" by Brian Tyler

Recommended for Some Christmas Joy

2011-12-24T12:53:00.003-06:00

Winter's Gift by Jane Monroe Donovan

A sweet story I'm surprised I haven't mentioned in Christmases past, Jane Donovan gives us a tale about an old man and a horse. The man has lost his wife and is alone in his house in the woods. It seems as though it may be a lonesome Christmas for him this year - until a mare stumbles in out of the wintery woods where the winds blow and snow swirls. He puts her inside and keeps her warm and fed. And then when he walks in Christmas morning, what does he see? A beautiful little colt with a little star on his forehead. It's a book that brings Christmas joy and is perfect for kids who love the holidays, winter, and of course, horses. Beautiful illiustrations will warm every reader's heart right along with the story.

MERRY CHRISTMAS ALL!

Notes from the playlist: "Have Yourself a Merry Little Chrismas" by Michael Bublé

Recommended for People with a Sense of Humor

2011-12-17T13:03:00.004-06:00

Lamb by Christopher Moore

Christmas is coming - and that means Santa, decorated pine trees inside houses, and of course, Jesus! It's time to make your heart lighter, so why not read the Gospel of Biff, Jesus's childhood pal? Find out just what happened during all those years that aren't in the Bible. Turns out Jesus did a lot of things with Biff right alongside him. It's all fictional, of course, but it is a great deal of fun. Naturally, serious religious people are likely to take some sort of offense to this book, but if you have a sense of humor, you'll enjoy this hilarious bit of creativity. Actually, when I finished this book, I hoped that if Jesus was indeed walking around all those years ago that he had a best friend like Biff.

Notes from the playlist: "The Christmas Song" by Lifescapes

Recommended as a Gag Gift or Parents in Need of a Laugh

2011-12-10T13:05:00.005-06:00

If You Give a Kid a Cookie, Will He Shut the F*ck Up? by Marcia Roznick and Miranda Lemming

This book is, in a word, hilarious. Within moments of discovering this (wrongly placed in the kids pile by another receiver, haha!), and showing one of my managers, others started showing up, including our community relations manager. In the spirit of Go the F*ck to Sleep, this story is a parody of the famous If You Give a Mouse a Cookie book. But of course, everything in this book is just plain wrong. From drunken uncles to cock fighting ("watching the birdies") to police arrests, you'll be laughing in no time. I think one of the best parts is actually the illustrations. They're bright and colorful and - somehow - absolutely cute. It really does look like it belongs in the children's section! But don't put it there please!

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Pumped Up Kicks" by Foster the People

Recently Finished and Recommended

2011-12-03T13:01:00.000-06:00

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ranson Riggs

Interested in something different? Perhaps something peculiar? This is definitely the book for you. Never mind that it's situated in the teen section of the bookstore. Riggs takes bizarre photos and incorporates them into a story that has everything from monsters to time loops, love and loss. It's fun and different, and yes, it does end in such a way that you know there's going to be another book in the future, but that doesn't take away from the story at all. If anything, once you're finished, you'll be impatient to get your hands on the next part of the tale!

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "I Am Here" by System Syn

Recommended for Entrepeneurs and Big Brand CEOs (and People Who Just Like Method)

2011-11-26T13:08:00.002-06:00

The Method Method by Eric Ryan and Adam Lowry

I love Method products, but rarely do I love any company enough to read a book about or written by them. But Method is exactly the kind of company we wish other companies would be. Eric Ryan and Adam Lowry demonstrate seven obsessions that they follow in their company - and not just for themselves, but with all their employees. They are all about being green inside and out, and do many of the things that we wish (or have been wishing for years) that other companies would do. Definitely read this book if you're an entrepeneur looking for great ideas and inspiration. Read it if you're some bigwig CEO who thinks he knows everything about business (you're never the best - there's always room for improvement!). Or read it if you just love Method (like I do!) and want to know more about how this awesome company functions. You won't be disappointed!

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Hey, Soul Sister" by Train

Recommended for Foxes in Boxes Wearing Sockses

2011-11-19T12:50:00.001-06:00

The Lorax by Dr. Seuss

Yep. You're wondering how on earth have I not recommended a Dr. Seuss book yet. I don't know! Very odd. Then again, there are so many good ones out there, it's really hard to pick just one. I guess every now and then I should just chuck one out there, eh? So let's start with one of my favorites. Yes, it's The Lorax. Welcome to where the Truffula Trees grow tall and the Lorax looks over all. The Once-ler appears and discovers the wonders of the Truffula Trees, and before the creatures of the land know it, factories have sprung up, the lakes are polluted, the sky is thick with smog, and the beautiful Truffulas are gone. Can one child bring back the Truffulas with a single seed? Only time will tell. It's a great story and brings with it that little reminder that our surroundings are precious. This is classic Seuss that so many of us read as kids and are delighted to see it still on the shelves today for younger generations. Here's hoping it stays there for many more to come!

Notes from the playlist: "Kamikaze" by Owl City

Recently Finished

2011-11-12T12:55:00.000-06:00

Beggars in Spain by Nancy Kress

What would happen if people could be genetically modified not to sleep? Sounds like it might not be so bad, right? But how would others react? Could Sleepers and Sleepless become new segregated communities? That's what Leisha sees happening. As a Sleepless, she does all she can to try and keep the two together, but the world is so big, and she is only one person. It's a book that spans decades, infused with ideas, philosophies, space orbitals, and even more gene modification. While not necessarily exciting, it makes for an interesting and engaging read.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Till I Collapse" by Eminem

Recommended for Kids Who Love Dogs

2011-11-05T13:09:00.002-05:00

Henry Huggins by Beverly Cleary

Everyone knows that Beverly Cleary writes some fun stuff. While my older sister read the Beezus and Ramona books, I discovered the joy that was Henry Huggins and his scrawny dog Ribsy. There are several books that feature Henry and Ribsy, and though there is no real order you need to read them in, you might want to start with this one first. This is the story of how Henry found Ribsy, and how he managed to get him home. Cue shinanigans on a bus and some quick thinking on Henry's part. These books are perfect for kids who love dogs, want a dog, or just want a fun story that will make them laugh and put the book down with a smile.

notes from teh playlist: "Ned of the Hill" by Lifescapes Music

Recently Finished

2011-10-29T13:08:00.003-05:00

Graveminder by Melissa Marr

The October book in Calico Reaction's 2011 ABC Book Club. You may know Melissa Marr's name from her teen books. How does she fare writing for adults? Not too shabby. It's definitely a little something unique and just in time for you to snag before Halloween hits if you're so inclined. You'll like the underworld that Rebekkah sees, and wonder how she'll stop a flesh eating dead person (not a zombie!). Remember, as long as you're the Graveminder, your Undertaker will be there to protect you, and it's your job to keep the dead where you put them. And who is responsible for all this mess? Oh, you will never guess...

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "A Freak Like Me Needs Company" by Patrick Page

Recommended for Swimmers, Sirens, and Lovers

2011-10-22T13:08:00.002-05:00

Ripple by Mandy Hubbard

When I saw this on the shelf, I was intrigued. When I read the inside jacket, I knew I had to read it. When's the last time I've read a story about a siren? How about never? So I made a mental note and the second I spotted it at the library, I nabbed it. Lexi is a siren. She must swim every night or face agony the next day. She must sing, but if any man is nearby, he'll walk into the water and drown. Lexi's killed before - she closes herself off so she can never do it again. As you read, you'll hope that maybe Lexi will have a chance for a normal life. That she'll be able to piece things together again and be happy. And yet at the same time, you'll be waiting for the other shoe to drop...and it does. Oh my, how it does... A satisfying read; high five to Mandy Hubbard.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Rise Above 1" by Reeve Carney feat. Bono and The Edge

Recommended for Grim Reapers

2011-10-15T13:09:00.006-05:00

First Grave on the Right by Darynda Jones

This was recommended to me by one of my managers. The second she showed me the cover (ohmygod - the shoes!) and the book blurb, I knew she'd picked a great book for me to read. According to her, it had a good story and it would make me laugh. Right on both counts. It's a fun romp with a grim reaper named Charley Davidson (girl). Ghosts pass through her to go to the light, but sometimes they have a few requests. These requests can be tricky, and often leave Charley with a few extra bumps and bruises. But with her Uncle Bob to help, and a sexy, midnight visitor stopping by in her dreams, maybe lift isn't so grim after all. Great dialogue and plenty of action - I read it in two days. Let's see you do better!

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Rest Easy" by Natalie Walker

Recently Finished and Recommended

2011-10-08T13:17:00.006-05:00

Queen of the Dead by Stacey Kade

It's October, so it looks like I'll need to start chucking out some scary, ghostly, creepy book goodness. You may remember my original recomenndation, The Ghost and the Goth. This book is the second in the series that Stacey Kade is crafting. Here, Alona and Will find themselves up against other ghost-talkers, and when Alona does something foolish in her attempts to contact her family, the results are disastrous, and even deadly--to a ghost no less! I like these two characters and was interested to see how everything wound up. This book will leave you with a few extra questions, but those will have to wait to be answered. There is a third book to come, but it looks as though we'll have to be patient since Kade isn't quite finished with it yet!

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "The Lonely" by Christina Perri

Recommended for Little Ones

2011-10-01T13:05:00.005-05:00

Leaves by David Ezra Stein

What better way to start off my favorite fall month than with an sweet little kids book? I actually discovered this book last fall and thought it was adorable. It's a board book, small for little hands, and features a bear who discovers the changes of fall, winter, and the burst of greenery that is spring. It's simple with easy text that can be read to young children. And of course, it's cute. When the bear sees the first leaf fall, he asks it if it's okay. When he sees more leaves falling, he tries to put them back, but eventually doesn't know what to do and goes into hibernation. What will Mr. Bear find when he awakens in spring? Lots of pretty green leaves!

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Dreams Don't Turn to Dust" by Owl City

Recommended for Kings and Queens

2011-09-24T13:09:00.005-05:00

A Clash of Kings by George R.R. Martin

Back in June I read A Game of Thrones (yes, I too jumped on the bandwagon despite the fact that I don't even get HBO). I've been in need of a good fantasy story for a long time, but I hate politics, fictional or not. But this series promised dragons, magic, war, and big kickass wolves. A girl like me can't turn away when there are big kickass wolves involved...and dragons and magic and war. This is the second book in the A Song of Ice and Fire series, so it is necessary to read the first one. But do so, because this book was more exciting than the first. I knew from the start I was going to like Tyrion Lannister, despite his being a Lannister, and each child from the House of Stark has an amazing tale going. You're bound to fall in love with certain characters and eagerly await the demise of others. A Storm of Swords is next in line - and so am I.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "The Orgy" by Basil Poledouris

Recommended for Serious Teens

2011-09-17T13:00:00.003-05:00

The Face on the Milk Carton by Caroline B. Cooney

This has been on my Recommend List for a long time - it's just never managed to find a slot to sneak into. You don't necessarily have to be a serious teen at all to read this book, though the subject matter is rather serious. Janie sees a young child's face on a milk carton one day and suddenly realizes - that's me! From there, Janie's life seems to spiral beyond her control as she discovers the truth about her parents, her life, and where she really came from. Cooney does a great job capturing the emotion of this story and to this day I still remember all sorts of individual snippets of this book. The same can't be said for all the books I read, that's for sure. Especially since I read this book when I was in 7th grade. There's a second book after this one that's 99% as good, and I later learned Cooney made a few more for this series, but for me, I'm comfortable with how it ended after book 2. Definitely give this one a try. It's not that long, and well worth your time.

Notes from the playlist: "Hole in the Head" by Sugababes

Recently Finished

2011-09-10T12:42:00.001-05:00

Ammonite by Nicola Griffith

If you're looking for some introspective SF to read, if you want to take a peek at a planet run entirely by women, and if you want to see what happens when newcomers and natives mix (with a rampant virus thrown in, of course), then Ammonite is the book for you. This was the August choice for the 2011 ABC Book Club hosted by Calico Reaction. While I personally wasn't too jazzed about this book, it did have enough high points that I think others would be more interested than myself. I think it was mostly because I wasn't looking for an semi-deep-thinking SF book at the time. But by all means, if the book blub sounds intriguing to you, take a shot and see what you think.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Bubblin' in the Cut" by Boreta

Recommended for Everyone

2011-09-03T13:02:00.003-05:00

The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank

It's a piece of history. It's a look at the past in a very special way. Anne Frank, her family, and another family they knew were Jewish. They hid from the Nazis thanks to some of their friends. This is a look at Anne's life during that time, closed up away from the world, wondering when she'll ever be safe, ever live in a normal world again. It's not a happy story. It simply ends with one final entry. She and her family were found out and sent to the concentration camps. Anne never made it out. Only her father did. Anne hoped to be a great writer when she grew up. It's a shame it had to happen this way.

Notes from the playlist: "Magic" by Mick Smiley

Books for Troops!

2011-08-27T13:45:00.000-05:00

Hey gang!

Trying out a little something different for now.

In the months that follow, I'm setting up a little donation doodad off to the side. Not for myself, no, no. I often squirrel away money and items in order to send them to troops overseas. I use AnySoldier.com to pick a group of men and women and send the things they need. Most of the time they're bored. Books a great because they're so versatile. Don't need a DVD player or batteries to play books!

But I also don't have a lot of money to spare. It can cost a lot to send a big package of books - even if I use the flat rate boxes. So if anyone's interested and doesn't mind parting with a dollar here and there, more books could go to all the men and women doing the kind of work that would leave the rest of us shaking in our boots. It's all voluntary and every penny will go toward shipping and new books (in case I run out of ARCs). I plan on keeping the donation button up until after Christmas and see how it goes.

So if you want to help entertain some soldiers with some good books but don't have a lot to spare, we can pool our resources and send boxes full of goodies overseas. Yay!

Recently Finished

2011-08-20T12:51:00.004-05:00

Dead Reckoning by Charlaine Harris

Even though the last book did have a plot, somehow I felt this book had more of a plot, even though when I think about it, they're about the same. If you haven't read the series, then this isn't the best place to start, but if you've been reading along, you might as well. It's fun. It's vampire killin' time. Let's put it that way. I'm also glad Sookie just started kicking people out of her house. It's a good read. I read it in about a day. No, wait, there's no "about" about it - I did read it in a day. So it's fast, fun, and if you like the series, it does some interesting things that will make you wonder about the potential changes in the next installment. I think Charlaine Harris can take her time. I'm interested in quality, and for anyone complaining about how long it takes to get the next book - please either be quiet, or go write your own book and see how long it takes you. :)

Notes from the playlist: "Red Dress" by TV on the Radio (The Glitch Mob Remix)

Recommended for Fairy Tale Folk

2011-08-13T13:08:00.004-05:00

Grimm's Complete Fairy Tales (Barnes & Noble Leatherbound Edition)

I adore Grimm's Fairy Tales. I guess it's because I'm such a sucker for fun fantasy. These are all the original tales - where the princes don't always kiss the beautiful maidens to wake them up, where witches die in horrible ways, and you learn everything that wasn't in the Disney movies. Hee. It's actually very interesting to see all the differences. I like this book not only for the stories, but also for the ideas. As a writer of fantasy, I've begun to look for some of my favorite tales and discover how to work them into new ways. Yay! Even better, for every Grimm's Fairy Tale in one really good-looking book, it's a great price. I own a bunch of these leatherbound editions. I'm happy I have the one I do (the cover is different and to be honest, I like mine better). But if you love fairy tales and want all the originals in one awesome book, this is the way to go!

Notes from the playlist: "Crescendolls" by Daft Punk

Recently Finished and Recommended

2011-08-06T13:06:00.009-05:00

World War Z by Max Brooks

The July book for Calico Reaction's 2011 ABC Book Club. I'd been meaning to read this for a long time. Brooks is the creator of the Zombie Survival Guide - a big seller in the store. This isn't your typical book. Instead, it's a book of interviews from people who survived the zombie war. This also isn't your typical science fiction - you'll find this book sitting in the fiction section in the store. Brooks writes the interviews as if the war had really happened. It's like a wild non-fiction/fiction book, haha. It is at turns interesting, sad, and actually got me thinking about ways to escape with my family (roads to use, supplies to take) in the event of a cataclysmic event. Which is rather creepy and scary when you think about it too much. But definitely give this book a try. It wouldn't surprise me if certain government agencies actually read this and planned accordingly for similar situations. (Hey, they've asked science fiction writers for ideas and advice before!)

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Secrets (Matrick Lightning Edit)" by OneRepublic & DjMatrick

Purchased for My Shelf

2011-07-30T13:04:00.001-05:00

Listography by Lisa Nola

Not so much a book to read as a book to play with (sort of like Wreck This Journal). It's a simple premise - each page has a different question or subject you can make a list about. Yep, that's it. But it's fun to think of things for hypothetical situations - "What occupations would you like to try?" - to things that will bring back memories - "List bands you've seen live." - and things that will make you think - "List the ways you've changed since your teens." You can also make a few lists of your own at the back, and at the front you can look through the entire list of, well, potential lists. It's a fun thing to do that will show people a little bit of yourself (if you're keen on sharing). So have a good time!

Notes from the playlist: "Captain Jack's Theme" by Ben Foster

Recommended for Little House Fans (not the TV show)

2011-07-23T12:55:00.001-05:00

The Wilder Life by Wendy McClure

Do you remember the Little House books? Wendy McClure sure did. In fact, when she gathered all her books together again, she decided to go on a little adventure full of Laura Ingalls Wilder goodness. From the Big Woods to the wide open prairie, she (and occasionally with her husband), heads out to see all the places that Laura went, do some of the things that Laura and her family did (like churn butter and make vanity cakes), and immerse herself in a world that has long since disappeared. Or has it? McClure learns plenty of things on her interesting road into Laura World (as she calls it). It's funny, occasionally poignant, and a really fun read for those who have ever loved the Little House books. (McClure's favorite was Little House on the Pairie, by my favorites are On the Banks of Plum Creek, Little House in the Big Woods, and yes, Farmer Boy.)

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Waking Dream" by Natalie Walker

Recommended for A Lot of Laughs

2011-07-16T13:02:00.002-05:00

F in Exams by Richard Benson

This book in one word? Hilarious. I don't own any humor books, but I think this will have to be the first one ever. It would be the kind of book to pull out when I'm feeling down - and then I would just laugh and laugh. Inside are actual student answers to test questions. What makes them so hilarious is that they're the sort of answers you would put when you're absolutely stuck on whta the real answer would be, so you just make something up that technically works - but isn't exactly the answer the teacher is looking for. Some of them are so witty and smart, that if I were the teacher, I would have to give a few points for creativity (and for cracking me up!).

What was the main industry in Persia?
"Cats" (complete with a picture of a cat!)

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Valse Moderne" by John Leach & George Fenton

Recently Finished

2011-07-09T13:05:00.004-05:00

Who Fears Death by Nnedi Okorafor

This was the June book for Calico Reaction's 2011 ABC Book Club, and definitely a different one compared to the others. In a good way. The events take place in post-apocalyptic Africa where one woman, Onyesonwu, is the sorceress that will change everything. The genocide. The way women are looked at. History. All of it. But she's got a long road ahead of her, and to get to the end, she may have to die, her friends may have to sacrifice themselves, and she will have to face the one man who is the most dangerous of all - a dark sorcerer and the man who raped her mother...and who is also her father. This book deals with a lot of issues but doesn't preach. They're simply a part of life (as much as they suck), and readers will hope Onye succeeds after everything she goes through.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "I Can Carry You" by James Newton Howard

Recommended for (Young) Creative Minds

2011-07-02T12:54:00.002-05:00

Beautiful Oops! by Barney Saltzberg

A cute little pop-up book that includes lift-the-flap areas and even a pull out spiral that lets you peer down inside it. I don't normally go for pop-ups since they all tend to be the same ("Ooh, nifty. Ok, I'm done."), but this one caught my eye because it was so different. The idea in the book is that even goof-ups can be turned into some interesting goodies. Each page shows things like torn paper, spilled paint, a coffee cup stain, and more before transforming them into fun pieces of art, or just goofy scribbles. This is one of those books I try to sell if I can, but most people turn aside from pop-ups due to their less-than-stellar ability to handle wear and tear from little hands. Still, if you have slightly older kids who are careful with their things, it's a truly delightful book to have, and I set it out in plain view anytime I can.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Upright Piano" by Without Directive

Recently Finished and Recommended

2011-06-25T13:09:00.002-05:00

Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin

Yes, I read it too. Along with everyone else who's seen the show on HBO. I've been told by many people over the years to read this series, and I've always said, "Yeah, sure, I will," and then never got around to it. The thing? I don't even get HBO. I saw the first episode when we had it free for a weekend and thought now would be a good time to jump in on the fun. There's a great deal going on in this book, so you'll be entertained through the multiple narrators that bring out the full story. While all the characters (there are a LOT) and names can get a litlte muddled at times, that's pretty much the only issue you may have with this book. Unless you're adverse to thick books. This is the definition of epic fantasy.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Lonely Dusk" by Machine Vandals

Recommended for Kids and Animal Lovers

2011-06-18T13:16:00.004-05:00

Little Pink Pup by Johanna Kerby

I literally just had a customer come in today and ask about this book. What can I say - I'm a total sucker for stories like these. And yes, those are dachshund puppies on the cover with that little piggy. Here we have Pink, the runt of the litter (later, when his siblings were 12 pounds, he was just 3). Because he kept getting pushed out of the way when trying to get food, the owners of the pigs brought him in where their dachshund, Tink, had just had her own puppy and fostering a few others. Everybody took to the piggy right away, and he to them. Eventually he moved back out to the barn, but everybody visits (including his new siblings and momma), and he even took his cozy doggie bed with him!

It's so cute and the piggy is so tiny. If you like cute animal stories like this one or you think your kids will have a laugh from the idea of a pig being a dog, this is definitely the right tale to read!

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Palm Tree Escape" by Hans Zimmer

June Book Giveaway!

2011-06-14T12:50:00.003-05:00

It's that time again! Free books, free books! Everybody loves free books!

To win a book, Tweet, Like, or otherwise link to this blog. That's it! Then leave a comment anywhere on this blog with a link to your tweet or blog or whathaveyou so I can take a peek for myself. Don't forget to include your email address in your comment so I can contact you in case you win.

There are seven books to choose from, but I'm only giving away one!

Click HERE for further rules and details about my book giveaways.

Here are the books available for the giveaway. They vary wide in audience and genre. They are in paperback format, except for Praying For Strangers, and Okay For Now which are hardcover. Click the covers for more information about the book.

Think about which book you want and throw a link my way. The contest will end Monday, June 27th at 12:00am (central time). The winner will chosen via random number generator and be notified via email on the 28th. I will also leave a post announcing the winner that day as well.

Good luck!

Recently Finished

2011-06-11T12:58:00.007-05:00

Snow Crash by Neal Stephenson

This was May's book selection for Calico Reaction's Book Club. If you like cyberpunk and haven't burned out on all the other stuff out there, Neal Stephenson is the way to go. It's got some really wild ideas; like a Dan Brown book set in a Blade Runner reality with Tron moments and a handful of crack thrown in. Good times. Made in 1992, it does have it's dated moments, but if you're able to get past that as well as Stephenson's writing style, then you'll be all right.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Break Your Heart" by Taio Cruz

Purchased for My Shelf

2011-06-04T13:09:00.009-05:00

Physics of the Future by Michio Kaku

A few years ago I spotted Physics of the Impossible, got all googly-eyed, and promptly bought it. So when I saw Michio Kaku had a brand new book with more science goodies inside, I once again got all googly-eyed and knew I had to have it. Full of all sorts of cool science (a lot of which is actually in the developmental stage - nifty!), you may have times where you sit and think, "huh?" but hey, it's bound to happen. It happened in Physics of the Impossible too. Some of this stuff is a bit out beyond my comphrehension, whereas other I have to exercise my already wild imagination. If you like science fiction as well as science fact, then this is your type of book.

Notes from the playlist: "Stripped" by Shiny Toy Guns

Recommended for Kids

2011-05-28T12:55:00.005-05:00

The Sea Serpent and Me by Dashka Slater and Catie Chien

When in a brief mode of, "Ack - the kids are here and there's no one to do story time!" my managers asked me to and I had to scramble to find some cute books to read them. Not that there's a shortage of cute kids books out there. But this one caught by eye and turned out to be a delight. When a tiny little sea serpent makes its way into a girl's bathtub, the two become fast friends. But he's a sea serpent, after all, and he's getting bigger every day! The watercolor illustrations are bright and whimsical, and the kids really enjoyed the story. For any kid who likes a bit of the silly and fantastical, this is the perfect book - going from the bathtub all the way to the wide open sea!

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Song for Sienna" by Brian Crain

Currently Reading (Double Dose!)

2011-05-21T13:02:00.007-05:00

The Plague Dogs by Richard Adams

Yep, two books at once (or three if you count manga). My love for Watership Down finally led me to read this book, though I was still hesitant. Poor dogs who have been subject to experiments at a lab? That just screams sad from the get-go. And a lot of it does make me sad - especially for the little terrier who had his brain operated on so now he's not always "there." I keep flipping near the end because I'm worried it won't end happily. Dog stories are hard for me to read when there's abuse involved. It's a good book so far, but I'm taking a few breaks from it. In addition, Adams tosses in some dialect that takes some time to get used to. Try it for something different.

Read the Epinions review here!

Sweetheart by Chelsea Cain

Several years back I read Heartsick, the first novel in this particular series. I read mysteries from time to time, but when there are serial killers and, more often than not, a string of dead girls in them, I get turned off. Hey, I'm a girl and who gets killed most often in cases like that? Yeah, us. So I wasn't going to jump right back into another one. But it's been long enough and in this one, the Hannibal Lecter-like Gretchen Lowell (she didn't eat people, she's into severe torture, but she's smart and extremely manipulative) has escaped from prison. Add to that, her last would-be victim and cop Archie Sheridan has another case - three bodies in the woods, a dead senator, and dead journalist that all might be connected. Archie certainly has a full plate...

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Kingdom Dance" by Alan Menken

Recently Finished

2011-05-14T12:56:00.009-05:00

The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress by Robert A. Heinlein

Another for Calico Reaction's Alphabet Soup Book Club, this is SF in one of its hard forms. Revolt on the moon? Good times. It does take a bit of time to get into because of the way Heinlein writes - the main character doesn't use a lot of articles (like "the" and "a") and I had to resort to using a Russian accent in my mind in order to get it to work. From then on, a lot of it is info-dumping and a great deal of telling and not showing - Mannie, the main character, basically tells you what's going on instead of the action simply presenting itself. But it is rebellion on the moon and all, and it takes time to progress, so in many ways it works. But you do have to be a fan of older SF or Heinlein for this book to work for you, otherwise you may very well decide to put it down and read another. For my part, I enjoyed it.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Obsession" by Sky Ferreira

Recommended for Secret Keepers

2011-05-07T12:52:00.003-05:00

A Lifetime of Secrets by Frank Warren

More secrets? Why, yes please. All five Post Secret books are an interesting look at the things we keep hidden from each other and sometimes even ourselves. Frank Warren took a simple concept - giving people postcards to mail him their secrets anonymously - and it transformed into so much more. People often customize their secrets, and in some ways these have become more than just the secrets of individuals. They've become art; a peek at the human condition. A snapshot of our lives not just in words, but in images, colors, and more. If that's too deep for you, then just ignore it. Instead, read this book and the others, and don't be surprised if you find a secret stuck in the book you pick out. You never know what you might discover.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Airplanes" by B.o.B (featuring Hayley Williams)

Recommended for Zombies

2011-04-30T13:04:00.009-05:00

Warm Bodies by Isaac Marion

This was my first ever zombie book. Not that I've never dealt with zombies before, they just weren't the main focus. This was an accidental read; I spotted it in the breakroom at work, just a lonely ARC lying on the table. I picked it up and started reading out of curiosity. Then I kept reading. Before I knew it, I took it home and gobbled it up (not quite similar to the way zombies gobble up brains, but you get the idea. It was fun and most of all, different. I know what zombies are like in the movies and what we've grown accustomed to, but this went back toward the supernatural side of things, which was refreshing. My only terror is that on the back of my ARC is says, "Outreach to YA and Twilight fan sites." No offense to those of you who enjoy Twilight, and goodness knows I love great YA books, but my gut reaction was, "NOOOO!" I read this as an adult book, and I truly hope that's where it gets shelved. (*I'm happy to report it's shelved in the fiction section :)

This is the only ARC I've kept out of those I've read, though when it's available in paperback, I intend to purchase it (so I don't have one with ARC written all over it and so I can support the author).

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Skinny Love" by Birdy

April Book Giveaway Winner!

2011-04-26T13:05:00.004-05:00

Well, I'm a little late in posting this, so if you were here ealier, sorry!

But I've chosen a winner via Random Number Generator and the winner is...

Teiira! Congrats, you get yourself a copy of Wither!

Thanks to everyone who entered! Keep on visiting for book ideas and of course, free books!

April Book Giveaway!

2011-04-19T13:00:00.001-05:00

It's that time again! I've got a sweet little selection of books for you this time around. But I've also upped the entry fee.

This time, in order to be eligible to win a book, Tweet, Like, or otherwise link to this blog. That's it! Then leave a comment anywhere on this blog with a link to your tweet or blog or whathaveyou so I can take a peek for myself. Don't forget to include your email address in your comment so I can contact you in case you win.

I have seven books to choose from this time, but I'm only giving away one!

Click HERE for further rules and details about my book giveaways.

Here are the books available for the giveaway. They vary wide in audience and genre. They are in paperback format, except for Praying For Strangers, which is hardcover. Click the covers for more information about the book.

Think about which book you want and throw a link my way. The contest will end Monday, April 25th at 12:00am (central time). The winner will chosen via random number generator and be notified via email on the 26th. I will also leave a post announcing the winner that day as well.

Good luck!

Currently Reading

2011-04-16T12:51:00.013-05:00

Chocolate Wars by Deborah Cadbury

I love chocolate. Love it. I kept seeing this book in the business profiles section of the store and was always curious about the whole Hershey/Cadbury deal, especially after Hershey started to slap their name alongside Cadbury's, and I'd heard Cadbury got bought out. But I didn't think that this would be my sort of read. However, constantly looking at it and peeking at it finally convinced me that it was something I ought to read. It starts at the very beginning of things, in old Victorian factories when chocolate wasn't the chocolate we know, when the Cadbury brothers still sold it to be consumed in similar ways that the Aztecs did; as a frothy drink. Eventually, they transformed their business (thanks to milk, sugar, and some other lovely creations) into a thriving giant - with Hershey and Nestlé eventually following suit. I look forward to delving deeper into this chocolatey history of Quakers, American giants, and the startling power of the cacao nib.

Funnily enough, I was eating a Cadbury Bunny Egg at the time I began reading this book.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Derezzed" by Daft Punk

Recommended for Mythical Creature Hunters

2011-04-09T13:06:00.004-05:00

The Element Encyclopedia of Magical Creatures by John and Caitlin Matthews

Yes indeed. As a writer, I like to have good, solid reference materials right on hand. I got tired of surfing the web and sifting through all the junk to find reliable information - yes, even on mythical creatures. So I turned to the one source I knew wouldn't let me down. Books. After checking out several, I decided that this book would be the best. After all, it's subtitle is: The Ultimate A-Z of Fantastic Beings from Myth and Magic. Jackpot. I wish it had some images, but hey, I can deal without them. This book gives descriptions of the creatures, their origin, and where they're often found in literature or various fables. It's a handy volume for all sorts of things, whether you just want to see what other culture believe in or you're looking for your next magical beast for your novel.

Notes from the playlist: "The Face" by RyanDan

Recently Finished

2011-04-02T13:06:00.007-05:00

The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown

I recently saw Angels & Demons again (the book was better) and thought I might re-read the book. Then I remembered it was in St. Louis with my sister. Then I remembered I never got around to reading The Lost Symbol. So that's what I did. While I believe most people would agree that The Lost Symbol isn't as good as Brown's previous books featuring Robert Langdon, it's still a pretty good read. In this book, Robert has to cast disbelief aside and crack the code left by the Masons on a stone pyramid in order to save a friend. With science, God, and a madman thrown into a mix, once again it's a dangerous combination and worse, he's only got until midnight. It does keep you on your toes, but does have a frequent number of flashbacks and a few writing devices most writers would shake their heads at. It's enjoyable, however, this, ladies and gentlemen, is the reason why writers should be given plenty of time to work on their books and they should be given the same editing attention as an author's first book.

Notes from the playlist: "Powerhouse" by Raymond Scott

Recommended for Teens Who Want Different SF

2011-03-26T13:08:00.005-05:00

The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness

Different indeed. Patrick Ness puts us in a world where everyone can hear everyone's thought all the time - whether they want to or not. At least, that's how Todd's world seems. One day he stumbles upon a gap in all that Noise and from then on, nothing is the same - or safe...not that it was to begin with, but now it's worse. This was March's book for the Calico Reaction book club and it was definitely different. I read it in one day and it alternately drove me nuts and made me want to read more. A wild ride to be sure, make sure you want to read this before you jump in because it ends like...well, just think Star Wars V.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Carnival of Rust" by Poets of the Fall

Recommended for Libyrinthians and More

2011-03-19T13:00:00.003-05:00

The Boy From Ilysies by Pearl North

The second book to Libyrinth, this one is even wilder with all sorts of twists and turns going on, from cultural clashes to scheming queens, technologically advanced/magic pens and what it means to change. This is a teen book that has a lot going on and takes all your attention. You'll keep reading it even when you figure you should probably go to bed since you have to get up early the next day, but hey, it's worth it. It picks up right where Libyrinth left off, with a boy named Po who has to figure out how he fits into the new world they've made and how he can help save the entire Libyrinth. No pressure, right?

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Streets of Gold" by 3OH!3

Recommended for Collectors and Shakespearians

2011-03-12T12:51:00.005-06:00

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare

Yes. I'm one of those people who decided to buy the entire works of William Shakespeare, sonnets, plays, and all. But why not? I love some of his plays - Julius Caesar is a personal favorite. And there are several I never had the chance to read and some English classes I took buchered them (I'd looked forward to reading MacBeth for the longest time, only to have it ruined). So I wanted the chance to read them and enjoy them on my own. Barnes & Noble offers this sweet leatherbound version for only $20 that I snatched up during a shopping spree one year. It's not abridged or otherwise messed with, but if you want footnotes and translations, you'll have to turn elsewhere. After all, this is all of Shakespeare's work - there's no room for anything extra.

It's also a heck of a lot cheaper than buying a bunch of single books - especially if you're in college (the only snag is those professors with their "preferred" books).

Notes from the playlist: "Like the Sun" by RyanDan

Recently Finished

2011-02-26T12:57:00.006-06:00

Fledgling by Octavia E. Butler

Actually, I finished this book at the beginning of February for Calico Reaction's 2011 Book Club, but figured I'd wait until the end of the month to put this up in case people were still reading. I admit, at first I was disappointed to hear we were going to read this because I'm tired of vampires. But being that it's Octavia E. Butler, I had hopes that I wouldn't be too disappointed. While the ending wasn't what I wanted (at all), it's a solid book in which Shori, a single survivor of her village, sets out to remember her life from before and attempt to find and capture those that burned her village and its inhabitants to the ground and nearly killed her as well. It kept my interest, but in the end I wanted more.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "If I Was Your Vampire" by Marilyn Manson

February Book Giveaway Winners!

2011-02-23T16:11:00.007-06:00

Wow! After a stunning (at least to me) number of entries, the time has finally come for me to announce the winner of the I Am Number Four ARC. I honestly wanted to go out and buy another copy as a surprise for a second winner, but I just don't make enough to justify dropping money on random books for people the way I can for a bit of shipping (as much as I'd love to. You'd think with all the stupid ads I have on this blog, I would, but the truth is that these ads have actually made me ZERO dollars so, psh).

I'm always delighted to see comments on my blogs and loved the enthusiasm so many of you had. I even had a few favorites:

Manu - for calling me "buddy" (I'm a girl, but high-five anyway)
Anonymous @2:10 - for noticing pracitically no one commented anywhere else on this blog (I know...aww)
Another Anonymous - who actually DID comment somewhere else (under the Lord of the Rings post) and made it a nice long comment too. :)

Anyway, after using a random number generator, the winner is.....

I Am Number Four!

Iris! Contratulations! Hope you like the book!

If you didn't win, better luck next time ("Next time?" you ask)! Yep, you never know what books I might be giving away. If you have any genres you'd like to see or authors you hope we get ARCs of, feel free to let me know and I'll keep an eye out for them. Until next month!

Purchased for My Shelf

2011-02-19T13:03:00.002-06:00

The Elements by Theodore Gray

The Elements: A Visual Exploration of Every Known Atom in the Universe is the official title of this awesome book. Theodore Gray is a collector of elements and has put together this book with excellent pictures and information. That's right - Gray actually collects elements in their pure forms, from Argon to Zinc, Boron to Xenon. Bulbs of oxygen and chunks of germanium. When you were in chemistry class, the elements were never this fun (unless, of course, you were setting magnesium on fire or had a teacher cool enough to throw sodium into a lake). It's a nice hardcover book with pages done in black at about $35. The Barnes & Noble edition of this book (which is what I have because after Christmas this baby went on sale - whoohoo!) contains a DVD with some neat goodies on it as well. Have kids that don't like chemistry? Show them this. Just want a really sweet compendium of the elements for reference or for fun like me? Here you go.

Notes from the playlist: "Haven't Met You Yet" by Michael Bublé

FEBRUARY BOOK GIVEAWAY!

2011-02-08T13:01:00.003-06:00

Yep, it's that time again. Time for a book you can get for free without lifting a finger (ok, well, you'll have to lift a few fingers in order to comment, but it's a lot better than forking over some dough!) So what do I have for you this time?

I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore

Why not read the book before you go see the movie? There were nine of them...but someone or something is systematically hunting them all down. They are all that is left standing between humanity and ruination. Three are dead. Number four is left - and next in line to die.

I thought maybe I'd chuck this one out there since the movie is due out the 18th. I also thought it was pretty impressive that this book got picked up so quickly to be turned into a movie. Some books take decades before they're noticed by Hollywood. I Am Number Four has been out 6 months, tops. And I think even that is stretching it. They sent the ARC (advance reading copy) to our store and I took one look at it and thought, "Ooh." Now I'll pass it on to you.

All you have to do is comment. Anywhere on this blog. Be sure to include your email address or some way for me to contact you if you've won. The contest will run until February 22nd, which gives you time to see the movie if you're the type that likes to do that before reading the book.

**Note: Please understand that because this ARC came through my place of work, in order to keep people from reselling them, the edges of the book have been marked (the way libraries or publishers do with remainder books) with "ARC." If you like your ARCs completely clean, it's best not to enter this contest. :)

Haven't seen the trailer for I Am Number Four yet? Well then, here you go!

This is the new cover the book has recently been released with. The copy you receive will be paperback and be the image at the beginning of this post.

Recently Finished (and Recommended)

2011-02-05T00:51:00.004-06:00

Shadowfever by Karen Marie Moning

Yes! The final installment of the Fever Series has arrived! Actually, it arrived back in January, and I actually finished it a week or so ago, but who cares? It's a great finish to the series. Though I personally felt some of it could easily be cut out to help speed the book along and Mac started to really annoy me at several instances, as a whole it's satisfying. It wraps up every loose end, and while one or two tiny things still hang out there, it's okay to let them go for now since they're not imperative to know. Even if you aren't interested in the series, go to your local bookstore and check out the cover simply because it's gorgeous. Once I finished the book and closed it, I stared at the cover before laughing. Now I know what it's meant to look like. Nice.

Check out the rest of the Fever Series:
Darkfever
Bloodfever
Faefever
Dreamfever

Notes from the playlist: "Time" by Hans Zimmer

Recommended So People Never Forget

2011-01-29T13:01:00.004-06:00

Night by Elie Wiesel

This is one book that everyone should read if they've never read The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank. And then you should read that too. Night is a true story, experienced by Elie Wiesel, about the horrors of enduring the holocaust. In 1944, he and his family were taken to the now infamous concentration camp at Auschwitz. It's a short, gripping story. Elie watches his family die and tries to understand the evils that man is capable of, all while doing everything in his power to survive. Not only does Elie offer the events of that horrific time, but also posits questions and thoughts that will have you thinking, wondering, and perhaps delivering insight you've never had before. If you want something real and powerful, this is it.

Notes from the playlist: "Psychological Recovery...6 Months" by Hans Zimmer

Recently Finished

2011-01-22T12:55:00.005-06:00

The Curse of Chalion by Lois McMaster Bujold

In my quest to be challegened by reading different things I might not end up reading myself, I read this as a part of a friend's online book club. This was my first Bujold book, sort of a surprise to some I guess since I enjoy fantasy. It was an enjoyable book, though my choice of words leans against "interesting" rather than truly "entertaining." If you enjoy court politics, a curse or two, and happy endings with a lot of theology and downtime thrown in between, then this is your book. However, if you're more of an action-adventure type of person, you may want to pass it up. Still, at least now I can say that I have actually read a book by Lois McMaster Bujold.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "The Death of Queen Jane" by Loreena McKennitt

Recommended for Teens (Alive or Otherwise)

2011-01-15T12:50:00.004-06:00

The Ghost and the Goth by Stacey Kade

There are certainly plenty of good things I can say about this book, but for a better review, click the Epinions link below. Suffice to say that Stacey Kade doesn't deliver the same old tired out plot. You think the main man is a goth - he's not. You think the girl is a bratty cheerleader - ok, so she is, but she's got some spice on her side that gives her a more interesting personality. And the problem they face? Definitely not what you were expecting. Certainly not what I was expecting. I had a great time reading this and trouble putting it down. I don't doubt that you will do the same.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Black Black Heart 2.0" by David Usher

Purchased for My Shelf

2011-01-08T13:04:00.005-06:00

Natural History: The Ultimate Visual Guide to Everything on Earth

If you've followed this blog at all, you may have picked up at some point how much I adore DK books (that is, the folks at Dorling Kindersley Publishing). This was one of those books that, while in the receiving room pulling it out of the box, I got all googly-eyed over and knew I had to have. Hands down. The second I knew I could get it at a lower price (because it's list price is a whopping $50 though completely understandable), I nabbed it. This book is like every DK book ever made about the natural world. It is, in a single word, AWESOME. Every glossy page is filled with brightly colored pictures of mushrooms, fish, ferns, big cats, bears, spiders, dragonflies, and virtually everything that walks, crawls, swims, or wriggles on the planet. Ok, so maybe not everything, but it's pretty darn close. Just by flipping through it, I've already discovered all sorts of things. The fossa in Madagascar are real and do eat lemurs, and there really are deer out there with fangs (I knew it!).

Notes from the playlist: "TRON Legacy (End Titles)" by Daft Punk

Currently Reading

2011-01-01T13:01:00.003-06:00

Intellectual Devotional: Biographies by David S. Kidder & Noah D. Oppenheim

Happy New Year!

Another year, another Intellectual Devotional to be read! Tonight I'll be on Day 1 and learning all about...hold on a moment...Khufu, ancient Egyptian pharaoh. Nifty. These books are great because you glean all sorts of tidbits about people and culture that you may not have known before. This time it's biographies only (in case the title didn't give it away). A different page about a different person every night for the next year. You never know who you're going to get! From thieves to presidents, singers to architects, and much more, it's another intelligent way to end the day.

Past volumes:
Intellectual Devotional (Original)
Intellectual Devotional: American History
Intellectual Devotional: Modern Culture

Notes from the playlist: "Zombie Fight" by Ilan Eshkeri

Purchased for My Shelf

2010-12-28T13:10:00.002-06:00

My Fair Succubus by Jill Myles

I do enjoy good romance from time to time, but Jill has actually made it to my shelf. Yes. I'll read romance, but books have to be something special, different, or just flipping good to end up on my bookshelf, and Jill Myles is actually the first author to do it. Maybe she got the timing just right, maybe it's her smart use of vampires, angels, and succubi, or maybe it's her steaming hot sex scenes. I think it's a mix of all those things. Her books are fun to read, characters are enjoyable, and these make for great reference books when it comes to writing my own love scenes. In the end, though, they're enjoyable and a great change of pace. Kudos Jill.

Previous books:

Gentlemen Prefer Succubi

Succubi Like It Hot

Notes from the playlist: "Don't Stop" by Fleetwood Mac

Recommended for A Merry Christmas!

2010-12-23T13:09:00.003-06:00

The Chronicles of Narnia (Leatherbound Edition) by C.S. Lewis

Can it really be Christmas without a little Narnia magic? Perhaps, but it probably won't be the same!

Have I read all of the books yet? I admit that, no, I haven't. I'm taking my sweet time (and of course, reading them out of order). I read the first one back in college, a few weeks before the movie came out. Yeah, I'm one of those geeks that likes to compare the movies to the books. But it only takes one book before you realize that they're going to be great fun. I love Lewis's writing style - it's like a fun sort of omniscient. Aslan is always impressive, and you never know what's going to happen next or where you might go - since on occasion you do venture outside of Narnia. It's not all witches and wardrobes you know!

And yes, I totally own the leatherbound edition made by B&N. And why not? It's gorgeous, affordable, and will last a lot longer than paperbacks. Of course, if you have kids, they might be better off with something you don't expect to last for very long. Whatever the format, kids and adults all want to visit Narnia!

Notes from the playlist: "From Western Woods to Beaversdam" by Harry Gregson-Williams

December Book Giveaway Winners!

2010-12-20T12:15:00.004-06:00

The winners have been chosen. It was a pretty tight little contest this time, with only four entries, giving each person a 25% chance of winning. This time I didn't even bother with the random number generator - I went even more random, writing names on pieces of paper, balling them up, mixing thoroughly, and then picking two with my eyes closed. So who won?

Mekaela won Gary Braunbeck's Mr. Hands!

Adriana won L.J. Smith's The Forbidden Game!

Congratulations guys! Extra Christmas presents for you this year, eh?

For those of you that didn't win, stick around - you never know when I'll have another giveaway!

Recommended for Kids and Parents Alike

2010-12-19T12:54:00.005-06:00

I Spy Fantasy by Jean Marzollo and Walter Wick

Christmas is coming, so it's time for dreams and wishes to come true and for flights of fancy to sprout wings and really soar. For kids, they can dive into an I Spy book and discover all the hidden goodies throughout its pages and enjoy the fun rhymes that announce what objects to look for. Since I did I Spy Christmas last year, this year it's all about the fantasy - mystifying and magical. Sand castles besieged by knights, cities made with wooden blocks, sparkling jewels, and of course, a unicorn hidden on every page.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Macedonian Morning" by Bill Whelan

Recommended for Writers (with Notebooks!)

2010-12-15T13:01:00.002-06:00

Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Writer's Notebook by Ralph Fletcher

My instructor in college requested we get this for our writing class. If you're a writer and you don't own a notebook, I suggest you get one. I've always loved notebooks. The clean white sheets, waiting to be covered in curls of pencil lead. Yay! Fletcher has some really great and nifty ideas in here. Funny thing though, I already did most of them. But for people who were new to the notebook thing or didn't often use theirs, I thought it was a great book to have. Even though I didn't actually need it, it was really cool seeing myself reflected on many of the pages. Joy.

Now, there's a catch with this little nugget. It's classified as a textbook and it's more expensive than it really should be. The book itself is rather thin (in normal terms, it would only cost about $15, but as it stands, it's near $30 in some places), so if you can get it used and in good condition, I highly recommend doing so.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Like a Prayer" by Madonna

DECEMBER BOOK GIVEAWAY!

2010-12-11T12:00:00.002-06:00

Merry Christmas everyone! Last month I didn't do a book giveaway because I figured everyone should be grateful for what they already have. I just forgot to mention that somewhere.

But now tis the season, and I've already bought 5 books to donate to Head Start of Kansas City (and if your B&N is doing a book drive - and it probabaly is - if you can, buy some books to donate before Christmas!). I've also been feeling very generous this season. So much so that I actually purchased a book specifically for this giveaway.

The Forbi dden Game Trilogy by L.J. Smith

THAT'S RIGHT! This book again! That's how much I love this trilogy (previous posts are here and here). Maybe some people think I'm over the top, but Julian kicks butt and it's just a whole lot of fun. I enjoy it so much I wanted to spread the love around by putting this brand spankin' new copy up for the giveaway. Our store is supposed to have 6 in stock as often as possible - I ordered an additional 3 because I handsell these as often as I can. So we had 9 in the store a few days ago. Now we have 7. (Told ya!) So if you want to try outwitting a Shadow Man like Julian, go right ahead.

Mr. Hands by Gary Braunbeck

For those of you who like to have something totally different for Christmas, here's a bit of horror for you. I have to say - I almost don't want to give this book away just because I freakin' love the cover so much. And it's a good book, of course. And Gary's a cool guy. But I'd like to pass it on to others so you can see for yourself. If horror is your game, then this is what you want to play. While this is my copy, trust me, I'm one of those people that keeps her books in pristine condition (or as close to as humanly possible).

If you want to join in on the giveaway, just leave a comment and some way for me to contact you in case you win. Pick one book or put your name in for both - doesn't matter to me! This contest will run until midnight December 19th - that way I have time to ship these out and you (might) get them by Christmas - or at least hopefully by the new year.

How can you say no to free books??

Notes from the playlist: "I Can't Take It In" by Imogen Heap

Recently Finished (and Recommended)

2010-12-07T12:13:00.003-06:00

Bad Kitty vs Uncle Murray by Nick Bruel

Every time I flipped through this book, I found myself giggling. I made a note to find the time to actually sit down and read it - and I did. Bad Kitty is a chapter book series by Nick Bruel. There are only a few of them right now, but with the way these are becoming more popular (and with good reason), I wouldn't be surprised to see more and more come out. Kitty is the main character of these books, but hangs out with Puppy (who is absolutely adorable and reminds me of my sister's dog with his goofy face). In this book, Uncle Murray is coming over to take care of Kitty and Puppy while their owners are away. Of course, with Kitty being the sort of cat she is, that won't be easy. It's a really funny book (I particuarly liked the bit where Kitty was in the closet with Puppy and you get diary entries from Kitty - where one day is about equivelant to 6 minutes). Kids will laugh and have a good time with this, and I highly recommend picking this up - especially if your family has a cat!

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "O Tannenbaum" by Vince Guaraldi

Recommended for Pretty Much Anyone Willing

2010-12-03T13:03:00.001-06:00

The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien

Contrary to popular belief, The Lord of the Rings isn't actually a trilogy. It is one novel simply split into three parts - that and many people find it easier to read three separate books rather than deal with one massive tome. Like me. Why else do you think I sprung for the 50th Anniversary Edition with it's gorgeous hardcover and gilded pages? Whatever way you prefer to read it, this is the fantasy story, the quintessential tale of the battle between good and evil...with a few Hobbits stuck in the middle of it.

If you haven't read this, but you've seen the movies, then you ought to read this (...just read it in any case). Besides, even though I'm not a naysayer of the movies (love 'em), in the book Frodo isn't a total pansy, that whole Warg thing never happened, King Theoden was always ready to rock, and Sam ruled even more of the universe. Overall? A long, albeit good, read.

Notes from the playlist: "The Bridge of Khazad Dûm" by Howard Shore

Currently Reading

2010-11-29T12:49:00.004-06:00

A World Without Islam by Graham E. Fuller

Yet another book spotted while at work. This is in the current affairs section, and it caught my eye and my interest. It's in this book that Fuller intends to show what the world may be like without Islam - and it may not necessarily be any different at all. Indeed, if not Islam, then what religion, what politics might have come into play and would they be the same in terms how how the West is viewed, etc? Very intriguing questions. I'm not yet very far into the book, but look forward to see how Fuller's ideas unfold.

Notes from the playlist: "What I've Done" by Marié Digby

Recommended for Travelers and the Curious

2010-11-21T13:04:00.002-06:00

God's Middle Finger: Into the Lawless Heart of the Sierra Madre by Richard Grant

I first spotted this book two, maybe three years ago when working at my other store. It's kind of hard to ignore a book called God's Middle Finger. It's equally hard to forget about it after reading what it's about. With phrases like, "[...] his reckless adventure spiraled into his own personal heart of darkness when cocaine-fueled Mexican hillbillies hunted him through the woods all night, bent on killing him for sport." Whaaaat? Really? Of course, I didn't get the chance to read it right away, but that book stuck with me until years later I finally got my hands on it. It's a great read. Definitely worth it. Grant travels all along Sierra Madre and learns about how the police and the drug dealers co-exist, sees abject poverty, the nonstop machismo that saturates the culture (and the men), and quickly discovers that it's all about who you know.

I put this book near Thanksgiving because after reading this book, it just makes me thankful for everything I have here. I'm sure Grant's happy to be alive and well on the opposite side of the Mexican border...

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Silver Springs" by Fleetwood Mac

Recommended for Kids, Camels, and Beach Bums

2010-11-17T13:03:00.002-06:00

To the Beach by Thomas Docherty

"Take an adventurous trip to the beach and hang out with the best camel ever."

That's what my Bookseller Recommends card read when I stuck this book on the recommendation shelf (back when I worked in a store that had one...my newest store did away with employee recs - VERY sad about that). It's a simple story about going to the beach - but this boy does it in a very unexpected way. And the camel is awesome - and adorable. That was actually one of the things that made me pick up this book, the cuteness of the camel. Who doesn't love a camel that knows how to have fun? I know we're in November, so read this and think of sunny days, or hang onto it until beach days come again.

Notes from the playlist: "Love Song" by Sara Bareilles

Recently Finished (and Recommended)

2010-11-13T13:03:00.005-06:00

Star Island by Carl Hiaasen

I was in the mood for something different, and having read the book blurb about Carl Hiaasen's newest book, thought that might just do it. I've never read anything by him before and figured now was a good time to see what Carl's all about. Though Star Island doesn't really fit the mystery genre by any real definition, it was still a fun romp. Weird, wacky, and amusing at every turn, I had a great time and polished this off in a single day. It's all about the trials and tribulations of pop star Cherry Pye - or at least, her double Annie, who slips in when Cherry's too coked out/drunk/unconcious to do the job. I guess it's in mystery because A.) the rest of Carl's books are in there and B.) you really don't know who is going to do what next. It may be your cup of tea and it may not be, but I say definitely give it a try and see what happens.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Who Wants to Live Forever" by Queen

Recommended for Bakers of Cookies, Cakes, and More

2010-11-09T12:49:00.004-06:00

Nestle Classic Recipes by Nestlé

Mmm. Who doesn't love Nestle goodness? From their classic chocolate chip cookie recipe to a few surprising ideas (key lime pie, anyone?), this book is choc-a-bloc full of delicious goodies ready for baking. And guess where I found this? In the bargain section of the store! Haha! Always great stuff in the bargain section. This book is a total joy to have around and I'm always eager to make something mouth-watering. The best part is that most of the recipes are simple, so for when I want something sweet and awesome and don't have the time or money for a recipe from Sticky, Chewy, Messy, Gooey, this is the way to go. Yummy!

Notes from the playlist: "Vianne Sets Up Shop" by Rachel Portman

October Book Giveaway Winners!

2010-11-01T13:07:00.002-05:00

Well, the winners have been chosen via Random Number Generator and the ballots are in (wait...numbers? Ballots? Nevermind). The winners are:

Anonymous for The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff! (wow, it seemed like everybody wanted this book...)
David for Little Bee by Chris Cleave!
Nicole C. for Zoo Story by Thomas French!
MayinJune for The Search for Wondla by Tony DiTerlizzi!

Congratulations guys! I hope you enjoy your new reads!

Thanks to everyone who participated and keep checking back for more cool books to read. And you never know when I'll have another book giveaway!

Ciao!

Recommended for I Spy Fans

2010-10-28T12:46:00.008-05:00

I Spy Myste ry by Jean Marzollo and Walter Wick

Yep. Another I Spy book. Because they're awesome! So let's finish out October on a fun, kid-related note. Mystery and hidden things abound in this one, so take your time to look through all the enigmatic pages to find all the objects. The mystery theme is perfect for Halloween if you can't get your hands on I Spy Spooky Night. As always I love the pictures that these two have come up with and it's just so much fun to sit and look at them even when you're not actually trying to find something in the riddles. You simply never know what you'll find in the mish-mash of goodies. Trick-or-treat!

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Replay" by Iyaz

Recommended for Scary Storytelling

2010-10-24T13:00:00.004-05:00

The Complete Tales of Edgar Allen Poe by Edgar Allen Poe

You can't have a good Halloween without some good scary stories to go with it. Might I suggest the "Masque of Red Death?" Or perhaps the old classic, "The Pit and the Pendulum." There's always "The Raven." Or you could read one that you've never heard of before. This is everything you ever wanted from Poe in a gorgeous leatherbound edition. I'd like to add that these leatherbound editions are fantastic. I own four of them. My cover looks a bit different (I got mine several years back), but the content is the same. Every page filled with Poe and his tales of murder, deception, ghosts, and other things that go bump in the night - as well as the things that creep up behind you and don't make any noise at all and by the time you notice them, it's too late...

Notes from the playlist: "Superbeast" by Rob Zombie

Recommended for Science Geeks and Any Crichton Reader

2010-10-20T13:02:00.003-05:00

Prey by Michael Crichton

The stuff Crichton came up with was always pretty impressive, both on a literary level and on a scientific level. Never mind that the dinosaurs escaped and wrecked havoc in Jurassic Park - we're all still jazzed about the idea of actually making real dinosaurs. As with most of his books, Crichton utlized a terrific amount of actual research to base all his ideas upon. This is also what helps to make the book so freaky. Robots of any form breaking free of human control and doing their own thing is a huge fear that lurks around. Nanos are no different. Those little buggers could (and in the book, do) as much damage as any human-sized, or larger, robot. Scary. However, that same information is what makes this book so thrilling. You like SF? You like Michael Crichton? You like science? Dive in, because this book is for you.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "What I've Done" by Linkin Park

OCTOBER BOOK GIVEAWAY!

2010-10-16T13:04:00.008-05:00

My first giveaway wasn't superhot, but I attribute that to only having one book available. After all, a lot of people are burned out with paranormal type stuff, urban fantasy and all that. So this time I'm doing something a little different - giving away more books with a wider variety. If this doesn't draw more people in, I don't know what will. So, with that in mind, here's the October Book Giveaway!

Little Bee by Chris Cleave

This book has only been on the front shelves for what seems like forever. I know, it says "New in Paperback" up there, but this came out in 2008 and the paperback came out in February of this year. It's been uber-popular and still sells dozens of copies as the days roll by. So why not see what everybody's talking about?

The Search for Wondla by Tony DiTerlizzi

If the author name sounds familiar, then so should The Spiderwick Chronicles. This book is fresh off the press, only just going out a few weeks ago. It reminds me of other interesting child-oriented post-apocalyptic style sort of thing. Like Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind. Something I could see Miyasaki doing. So if you're ready for a unique adventure or have some kids who would be interested in a story with a beyond the Wizard of Oz type feel, go for it.

The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff

This is one I just kept looking at while at work. It sounded so interesting, so different, so ripe for Tim Burton to take a look at. This is geared toward teens and follows a boy who isn't supposed to be here. He was left in the crib of a human baby a long time ago, but he really belongs below ground, a dark world beneath the down. And he'll finally have to go there when his sister goes missing...

Zoo Story by Thomas French

This is the book I read back in July. It follows the events that unfold at a zoo in Florida, a fascinating look at where zookeepers work, how they handle escaped animals, and what happens when things are stretched to their limit. If you already have warring feelings about zoos, this will enhace them. Are zoos worth it or are they sheer entertainment? Knowing a little more about the full story behind at least one of them will at least give you more insight into the world we never see.

Yep. Four books. A little something for everyone. And remember, these are ARCs (Advance Reader Copies) so they're not entirely finished. They are all paperbacks, and they all have markings on the outsides of the pages to prevent anyone from attempting to sell them. But if you just want to read a good story, like a good free book, or think ARCs are cool, then by all means join in on the fun.

All you have to do is leave a comment anywhere on this blog. Say whatever you like (recommend something, tell me how much you enjoyed something, anything), but be sure to include an email address or some other way I can contact you if you've won, as well as which book you would like. The contest will end October 31st as the big spooky clock strikes 12. *muahahaha!*

**Just to clarify: There will be four winners - one person for each book. Not one winner take all. Hence the whole "tell me which book you want" thing. Sorry if anyone was confused.

Good luck!

Notes from the playlist: "Burning in the Skies" by Linkin Park

Currently Reading

2010-10-12T12:48:00.004-05:00

The Legend of Zelda and Philosophy by Luke Cuddy (Editor)

Now, your store may or may not have this - apparently it is now out of print and only available digitally, but a few stores still have it in stock (at least they do around me). Every time I was in the philosophy section of the store, I saw this and others like it; House and Philosophy. Family Guy and Philosophy. Star Wars and Philosophy. But out of them all, I thought this would be the most fun to read. Though not a big gamer at all, I do love the Zelda games (ok, so I only own/have played two of them) and was really curious as to how the writers managed to wrangle philosophical concepts from an adventure video game. I suppose if you try hard enough, you can get philosophical about almost anything. Still, it's been an interesting read, with essays by different writers all compiled together. And yes, these guys have played the games.

Notes from the playlist: "The Joker" by Steve Miller Band

Recommended for Some Fun-Loving Mystery

2010-10-08T13:06:00.004-05:00

One for the Money by Janet Evanovich

Back when I was in college (and before my B&N days), my sister recommended this book to me. Then my mother recommended it to me. Then my roommate recommended it. I didn't normally have anyone recommend books to me, so to have three completely different people recommend the same book in a matter of weeks made my decision pretty simple.

"I'd better read this book."

I did, and I thoroughly enjoyed. It's word of mouth marketing like this that puts an author on the map. Janet Evanovich had written several books before, but suddenly Stephanie Plum and her misadventures hit stardom and everyone and their grandma wanted to read the books. With good reason too. They're funny and light, they're murder mysteries but without the gore and horror and realistic creepiness that many mystery books have (with good reason). The funny thing was that I didn't normally read mystery books either - at least not since my teen days. Now Janet is up to book #18 and still counting. I still read them even though they've lost some of their overall flavor, but if anything, read the first three (or four....ok maybe five and six too).

Read the Epinions review(s) here!

Notes from the playlist: "Louder Than Thunder" by The Devil Wears Prada

Recommended for Wolf Lovers and Photographers

2010-10-04T13:05:00.005-05:00

Wolves: A Photographic Celebration by Amber Rose

This is another bargain delight I stumbled upon one day. These books fall into the Brick Books series, so there aren't just wolfy books like this. However, I think these are hard to come by now, so if you can't find them in the store, you might have to buy from a secondhand place. What I love about this book is that it's just pictures and fun facts. I love wolves. Always have. Always will. My parents still wonder why I'm not in the middle of the woods studying them. Sometimes I wonder that too. But since I'm not, I'll settle for this. Gorgeous color pictures with factoids accompanying each page. And if you were so inclined, it's not big like most coffee table books, but would make for an interesting piece.

Notes from the playlist: "The Greatest Story Never Told" by Murray Gold

The Winner!

2010-10-01T16:47:00.002-05:00

The winner of the very first Bookseller Recommends Book Giveaway, after using the Random Number Generator, is.....

Poster #7 - HEIDI!

Congratulations Heidi, and I hope you enjoy your books!

(And no, in response to your comment, I actually haven't read Child 44 yet, but I've heard a lot of good things about it. Probably why it was a B&N Recommends book!)

If you didn't win, don't worry because I'll be posting another contest soon and THIS time there will be more than one title to choose from!

Recommended for the Fantasy Anti-Hero Crowd

2010-09-26T13:01:00.002-05:00

Lord Foul's Bane by Stephen R. Donaldson

I chose this cover instead of the new release cover since that one is more likely to make people think of Lord of the Rings. After all, there is a ring of power involved. But this isn't your happy Hobbit sort of story. The main character, Thomas Covenant, is an asshole. No joke. He's a definite anti-hero, and I think my first ever anti-hero story. Despite his jerk power, he manages to do the right thing, and maybe not even be such a jerk in the end. What I really loved the most about this book though, were Donaldson's descriptions of The Land. It had been a while since someone had painted such a gorgeous picture for me with words. That's another reason I used this cover, because I think it's a more accurate represnation of just where Covenant goes.

This is the first in a trilogy, but if you really wanted, you could just read this book and leave the rest alone. The trilogy is pretty good though, so I think you ought to keep reading. However, beyond this is a second and, yes, a third trilogy, but I would forgo those entirely for a number of reasons that are too extensive to outline here.

Notes from the playlist: "This is Gallifrey: Our Childhood, Our Home" by Murray Gold

Recommended for People Searching for Hope

2010-09-22T13:01:00.005-05:00

703: How I Lost More Than a Quarter Ton and Gained a Life by Nancy Makin

This was a book a customer was searching for. She found it, but I remember seeing her put it back. Intrigued, I took a look myself and made a mental note: Read. In case you missed it, this has been in my Reading List off to the left for quite some time.

I finally got to it (and while reading it, it caught the interest of one of my managers as well). It's a fascinating story that will make you angry, make you smile, and yes, even perhaps shed a tear or two. I know, that all sounds awfully cliche, but it's true. When my manager asked how the book was going, I told her I'd finished it. Was it worth reading? Emphatic "Yes" on my part. Honest to heavens, if you're running out of hope for whatever reason, read this book. Understand that it's not impossible to love life again and escape from whatever dark prison you or others have managed to build around you. This book is actually in the Health/Diets section of our store, but it really can give you a boost no matter what you weigh.

Notes from the playlist: "When She Loved Me" by Sarah McLachlan

Recommended for A Bit of AWESOME!

2010-09-18T13:01:00.007-05:00

The Book of Awesome by Neil Pasricha

When I first came upon this book one day at work, I had two thoughts. 1.) I need to read this book. 2.) Why is it in the Self Improvement section?

Though I never did quite figure out why it's in that section, I most certainly ended up reading it and I had a good time in the process. The concept is simle: Awesome Things. Those little things in life that are, well, awesome. Like walking past a bakery and snorting up that delicious smell of baking bread and cookies and yummy things. Or freshly fallen snow. Or, everyone's favorite, popping bubble wrap. There are literally hundreds of yippee-skippee things in here that will, at some point, jog a delighted part in your brain that makes you say, "Omigod, YAY" as you suddenly remember just how awesome that particular thing is. One of those for me?

The smell of the coffee isle in the grocery store. AWESOME!

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "The Kraken" by Hans Zimmer (AWESOME!)

Recommended for Travelers and History Hunters

2010-09-14T12:57:00.001-05:00

Hunting Pirate Heaven by Kevin Rushby

I actually had to read this in college when I took a course on pirates (yes, you heard me. A college course on pirates). But that doesn't mean it was a boring textbook. Instead, this is actually one man's account of trying to find the one place that pirates were rumored to stop and make their paradise with all their gold and plunder. Somewhere off the coast of Africa, near Madagascar. Rushby takes off from England, and from there goes on trucks, boats, and experiences some friendly--and some very questionable--people as he tries to find this fabled pirate heaven. This is also one of those stories where, as I read, I thought (admittedly in a very biased manner), "This is the sort of thing that only an English guy could get away with. If this were an American, he probably would have been shot by now."

A final note? Most college books I sold back. This one I kept.

Notes from the playlist: "Cheeseburger in Paradise" by Jimmy Buffet

FREE BOOK CONTEST!

2010-09-10T12:53:00.002-05:00

After pondering over the idea for a while, I finally decided that what's the point of recommending books to people and never dishing any of them out so the folks at home can see for themselves?

So, after just a year of recommending books, I'm having my first book giveaway contest. So what's on the table?

Shadow Bound by Erin Kellison (Advance Reading Copy)

It's a cool take on the whole concept of the banshee, as well as some soul-sucking, wraith-hunting fun. Throw in a bit of romance and it's a date. But wait, that's not all! I'm also throwing in another surprise book with this one! Ooooooh! So if you're interested in some urban fantasy that crosses the line into the land of faerie and romance from time to time, then this is right up your alley.

How do you enter? Easy! Just leave a comment anywhere on this blog - mention a book you think I should read, tell me how you loved or hated one my picks, whatever you like. It doesn't matter which post you comment on - I get notifications and I'll know which comments are new so no worries. The contest will run until September 30th so word has time to spread throughout the net. The more people visit, the more likely I'll be to post more books in the future! So tell your friends, tell your family, tell your pets (wait...), and leave a comment (only one comment per person please! Let's try to keep it cool). Once the 30th hits, I'll use a random number generator to choose the winner.

**Note: Please understand that because this ARC came through my place of work, in order to keep people from reselling them, the edges of the book have been marked (the way libraries or publishers do with remainder books) with numbers. If you like your ARCs completely clean, it's best not to enter this contest. :)

**Second note: I realized after a few comments that I'd never mentioned how I'd get into contact with the winner. People have pretty much solved this for me. While I could just announce the person and then say, "Email me 'here' with your info," someone could step in and pretend to be said person in order to swipe the book first. I honestly don't think that's going to happen, but better safe than baboozled. So in your comment (it's okay if you didn't do so), you can either leave your email in any coded form you want (bookgrlATgmailDOTcom, bookgrl-gmail, bookgrl(at)gmail(dot)com, whatever works to keep away the email boogeymen) or link to a website/blog that has a way for me to contact you.

Recently Finished (and Recommended)

2010-09-06T12:51:00.004-05:00

Dear George Clooney: Please Marry My Mom by Susin Nielson

There are some books that you simply have to read the moment you see them. They just sit right at the top of your "To Read" list. That's precisely what happened with this book. I spotted it in the young reader's section and immediately pulled it off the shelf to see what it was about. A few snickers later, I knew I had to read it.

Now, when I say "Recently finished," I mean "Just finished it last night at 12am." Yep. I read this in a matter of hours and I had a blast while doing so. This book is totally adorable. An utter gem straight out of Canada. And mind you, I'm 26. But it was just fun to read a book meant for 12-year-olds. Heck, if I were still 12, I'd want to be friends with Violet. That girl knows how to have a good time. She gets into trouble, sure, but who wouldn't want to be friends with a girl who finds a way to crash a golf cart after trying to avoid camels and belly dancers? It'll all make sense, trust me. I was up many minutes later just smiling and giggling to myself over this book. So if your parents ever divorce and you need to set your mom up with someone classy and debonair, see if George Clooney is up to the task.

Oh, and I have one more thing to add: Pamplemousse. XD

*Whoo hoo! I managed to convince Susin Nielson to send a book to the man George Clooney himself (well, sort of). Click here and bookmark to see what happens!

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "(You're the) Devil in Disguise" by Elvis Presley

Recommended for Music Lovers and Students

2010-09-02T12:55:00.001-05:00

This is Your Brain on Music by Daniel J. Levitin

When I saw this book and read the back blub, I knew I had to read it. The idea of how my brain functions when listening to music, why some people like one kind of music and others don't, and why it's possible to "kill" a song (as I put it - basically it just loses its impact after too many repeat listens), were all things I wanted to know. I'm a soundtrack junkie, and can't fathom how people don't goggle over pieces by Hans Zimmer or Basil Poledouris. And I love such a range of music from Loreena McKennitt to Korn, it's crazy. This is a pretty in-depth book if you're not familiar with a lot of the nuances of music, but it's still good. It's the sort of book you read slowly, mulling over it while drinking a cup of good coffee and nibbling on a scone. So, if you've ever wondered about music and why some notes hit your brain just right, allow Mr. Levitin to enlighten you.

Notes from the playlist: "Breakeven" by The Script

Recently Finished

2010-08-29T13:03:00.005-05:00

Be Ready When the Sh*t Goes Down by Forrest Griffin and Erich Krauss

Let's be honest. I love working at Barnes & Noble. I could be cashiering or I could be in the kids department, but no matter where I am, I'm always exposed to books I may have never otherwise considered.

That's actually not the case here. Haha. I'd already read Got Fight? and knew it was only a matter of time before this book came out. Lucky me, I was in the receiving room and opened up the very box containing the new copies. I immediately put one aside. While it wasn't quite as funny as Got Fight?, it was still pretty amusing. The cover itself is enough to get you to laugh. My dad thinks that Forrest has been hit in the head one too many times by now, and he's probably right. You'll learn how to survive the apocalypse, start your own religion/cult, and build your own eutopia. My favorite parts have to be the random stories about Forrest and a few of his acquintances, one in particular regarding his wife's attempt to teach him a lesson about leaving the doors unlocked at night. So if you want to know how to survive when the sh*t goes down, well, there are better books, but we all know which one you're going to pick.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Hell Yeah" by Rev Theory

Recommended for Fantasy Newcomers

2010-08-25T12:58:00.002-05:00

The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

It's my 100th Post! Whoo hoo!

I say "newcomers" because generally if you are a fantasy reader, you've taken on The Hobbit. If not, you need to get your stuff together.

The Hobbit actually was intended to be a children's book, but it's grown into much more than that now. I still remember being a little kid and listening raptly as my dad read this book to us. Dwarves that sing and battle trolls. A hobbit with a magic ring who has to escape from a create that keeps calling it his "precious." Men and elves. Escaping in wine barrels. And a huge dragon named Smaug with one, single weakness. It's exciting and fun whether you're an adult or a kid. So if you ever intend to read The Lord of the Rings, to see the movie of this when it comes out, or just want to jump into Middle Earth, here is your ticket. Please enjoy the ride.

Notes from the playlist: "The Return of the King" by Howard Shore

Recommended for Kids Going Back to School

2010-08-21T13:05:00.002-05:00

I Spy School Days by Jean Marzollo and Walter Wick

That's right! Another I Spy book! I'm not going to stop posting them until I run through all the titles. I love these books to pieces, and I'm sad they don't make them anymore. Not like this anyway. Now that school days are upon us again, why not give kids a little something fun to look through instead of just all that new school supplies (although I remember getting excited about new school supplies and new shoes and such, but maybe I'm a dork). Kids get to look for all sorts of goodies in pictures with school themes, from craft supplies to nature walks. You'd be surprised at just how much Marzollo and Wick hid in the Playground when it's just calk on asphalt...

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "The Harvest" by Bill Whelan

Recently Finished

2010-08-17T12:57:00.005-05:00

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

Winner of the Newbery Medal, I decided now was a fine time to see what landed this book that honor.

To be perfectly honest, I still don't know. I guess it's just that it's well-written.

It was interesting, but it lacked a lot of oomf. I'm a fan of Neil, so I was a bit disappointed. There are plenty of neat things in this book, but it seems to lack in a lot of things, or at least it feels like it does. Instead of having some stucture, it's more like "A Day in the Life of Bod Owens" only with a lot of different days. You're basically just following him around while he does stuff. He doesn't even really have a central goal like most protagonists do. I guess it might be "Leave the graveyard someday," but even then that doesn't ever really present itself that strongly. I feel pretty certain even if I were a kid reading this I'd be kind of disappointed in what I found. Interesting, different, and I'm sure some kids might enjoy it, but after Coraline and Mirrormask, I'm not sold. At least it has illustrations by Dave McKean in it.

Read the Epinions review here!

Notes from the playlist: "Peter Gunn" by Henry Mancini

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