The Night Circus

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

At first, I loved this book. It was full of intrigue and had an air of mysticism to it. It reminded me a lot of The Prestige. However, then I discovered why it was categorized as YA. There is a huge love story that is completely ridiculous. I am not a fan of over fantasized romance. Whenever that story took a back burner, the real story of the circus and competition could shine through.

As for the characters, I loved some and hated others. I felt Celia Bowen was cocky and difficult to relate to while Poppet was absolutely charming and adorable.

I would definitely recommend this to someone interested in YA books with a slight fantasy twist.

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Top Ten Tuesday: Bookworm Delights

If you truly love books, then there are some things in life that just make your heart skip a beat and soothe your soul. Here are ten of my bookworm delights. For more top ten lists, visit www.brokeandbookish.com.

1. Staying up all night to finish the book

We've all done it, how could you stop reading now? The plot has just thickened! I think my best record was the summer I reread all the Harry Potter books. Not a lot of sleep happened that summer. 

2. A cozy blanket, an awesome book and my dog warming my feet

I have the coziest blanket, the best dog and great taste in books. That is a great recipe for a truly perfect evening. 

3. When books I love reference other books I love

I get so giddy when I'm reading along and BAM there's a reference to Dandelion Wine by Ray Bradbury. It just warms me to my very core.

4. When the metaphors come full circle

Nothing is quite as satisfying as when the metaphor from the beginning comes full circle. 

5. Sun bathing with an ice cold Diet Dr Pepper and The Great Gatsby

I know what you're saying, "Really? Gatsby? That's a depressing love story." But I don't like love stories. I like literature, and Fitzgerald writes wonderful literature. His prose is smooth and no one describes summer heat quite like he does. 

6. The perfect neck pillow

OK, to be honest, I haven't found it yet. I have chronic neck pain and it really puts a damper on my reading. Let me know if you find a good, affordable option. 

7. Shopping for books

My husband was pretty sure that I would cut down on my book buying once I became a librarian, boy was he wrong! I love going to book stores, shopping online, book trades and pretty much anywhere I can discover new books. 

8. Unique writing style

Oh every chapter is written from another person's point of view and at the end of the book, they all meet for the climax of the story... that's fun but a truly beautiful writing style in a unique narrative is something special. Don't tell me the story, make me feel it. I want to have my outlook on the world changed. I want to think about the author's words as I fall asleep. I want to find my new favorite quote. 

9. Bookmarks

I have probably purchased about 20 different bookmarks in the past and know where three are. But I love getting new ones. They can range from classy and expensive to laminated Chewbacca. Regardless, I am always on the look out for new ones. 

10. Libraries

Shocking, I'm sure I'm the only book blogger who likes libraries. When I was a kid, my dad used to take me to the library on Saturdays. My siblings all talked about all the vacations they used to go on and it always made me jealous. But I knew my dad really loved me because of those Saturday trips to the library. My favorite memories with my dad are at that library. 

Top Ten Tuesday: Ten Books That Will Make You Laugh (or at least chuckle)

1. Food: A Love Story

Guys, this book is hilarious. Jim Gaffigan is one of my favorite comedians and his writing feels genuine. It's like he is talking to you personally about how much he loves falafel. If you're having a rough day, read a couple of pages and I promise you will feel better. 

2. Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?

This isn't the type of book you sit down and read and can't wait to get to the next chapter. It's the kind of book you read for a laugh between classes or when you need a pick me up before bed. After you read Mindy Kaling, you'll wish you had a best friend as cool as her (I luckily do). 

3. Who Ordered the Jumbo Shrimp?

I love oxymorons. I think they are hilarious. My favorite is probably dress pants... how can you be a dress and pants??? Silly oxymorons

4. Paper Towns

John Green masters teenage sarcasm. Not my favorite book, but I definitely chuckled quite a few times. 

5. The Princess Bride

I don't usually say inflammatory things, but if you don't like The Princess Bride, I don't think I want to be your friend.

6. Breathing Lessons

A tale of silly arguments, a meddling mother and a complicated road trip. Looking for a fun, light read? This is it. 

7. Matilda

If you're reading this blog, then you were probably a weird book kid and totally related to Matilda. I sure did. 

8.Me and Earl and the Dying Girl

Every awkward interaction will have cringing and laughing!

9. The Martian

This is the funniest sci-fi ever. I was surprised at how much humor is in this book.

10. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer

It's amazing how Twain can fill one book with so much joy and laughter while still maintaining serious themes about honesty and belonging.

For more lists, visit brokeandbookish.com. 

Top Ten Tuesday: Ten Books to Read if You Love Thrillers

Top Ten Tuesday is a blog hosted by The Broke and Bookish. For more lists, visit brokeandbookish.com. 

1. Gone Girl

While it wasn't my favorite book, Gone Girl still had me on the edge of my seat. It was definitely exciting and full of twists and turns. Do not read it if you are sensitive to strong language. 

2. Girl on the Train

I thought I knew what this book would be like but I was entirely wrong. Once I started this book, it was hard to put down. 

3. Zoo

This is an awesome and terrifying book. If you liked, Jurassic Park, White Fang, or any other animal thriller, you're bound to like this one. It's probably my favorite by Patterson. 

4. The DaVinci Code

The DaVinci Code is a fun and exciting book. It's the perfect length for a car ride!! 

5. Loves Music, Loves to Dance

This is not the only good Mary Higgins Clark book, pretty all of them are good. They are quick reads full of entertainment. If you're looking for a good mystery, pick one up! 

6. The Martian

So much fun! I loved the book, I loved the movie. This is a must read. Once you start, you'll be hooked. 

7.Hunger Games

8. Something Wicked This Way Comes

I know, I talk about this one a lot. But it is worth the hype. 

9. Odd Thomas

Probably my favorite Dean Koontz book. All his stuff is intense and thrilling. It's great for a weekend off! 

10. Ender's Game

One of my all time favorite books. I suggest this one to students all the time. If you don't like reading, you aren't reading the right books! 

The Enchanted

The Enchanted by Rene Denfeld
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have never read a book like The Enchanted. Denfield is fascinatingly creative in her writing style. The story takes place on death row through the eyes of an inmate who cannot or will not speak. However, his story takes the back burner as he describes this enchanted place that is the prison.

He discusses the story of The Lady (an investigator) and The Priest (a fallen priest who provides comfort to those who will die). In the eyes of the inmate, the prison is an enchanted place with monsters, magic, love and peace.

While the story is quite dark, I couldn't help but be riveted by Denfeld's imagery and prose.

"The fresh tumbling water makes her think of drinking and thirst and the hunger she has always felt-- if she could swim in this creek, and wade away to forever, she might be whole."

This book is like no other. Read it if only to experience transcendence in the most unlikely of places.

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