tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52897965019633666662024-02-20T20:57:58.720-08:00A Story at a TimeAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.comBlogger38125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-33751762351899048122017-06-29T12:31:00.002-07:002017-06-29T12:31:40.841-07:00Five Quarters of the Orange<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15096.Five_Quarters_of_the_Orange" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="Five Quarters of the Orange" border="0" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1388374999m/15096.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15096.Five_Quarters_of_the_Orange">Five Quarters of the Orange</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/9432.Joanne_Harris">Joanne Harris</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1604456258">5 of 5 stars</a><br />
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Harris's story was surprisingly sweet and her prose was like magic. At first, I didn't know if I would like her style. I have gotten sick of the flashback set up where the reader meets the character as an aged soul who is reflecting on her childhood. But, Harris does this with such care. She truly knows how to grip the reader's attention and heighten their curiosity. <br />
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This book is one about what it means to be brave, to keep secrets and the danger of being charmed by the snake. I will definitely be reading more from Joanne Harris.
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/45909896-mallory">View all my reviews</a>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-85962302022028716132016-09-02T11:59:00.000-07:002016-09-02T11:59:39.020-07:00Beacon 23<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26771521-beacon-23" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="Beacon 23: The Complete Novel (Beacon 23 #1-5)" border="0" src="https://d2arxad8u2l0g7.cloudfront.net/books/1444683708m/26771521.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26771521-beacon-23">Beacon 23: The Complete Novel</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3064305.Hugh_Howey">Hugh Howey</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1595171848">3 of 5 stars</a><br />
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It's hard to describe my thoughts and feelings about this book. I was mesmerized by the metaphor of the lighthouse but I was disturbed by the characters. <br />
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I felt like this would be the perfect book for someone who loved Sci Fi and had a dark sense of humor. I love Sci Fi but I lack the darkness. The writing was very harsh but well done. This is not a book I would suggest to my mom. The language is strong and the themes are quite dark. The metaphors and the prose however, are beautiful.
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/45909896-mallory">View all my reviews</a>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-80903110595756253572016-06-07T07:10:00.000-07:002016-06-07T07:10:54.394-07:00Top Ten Tuesday: Five Reasons I Love C.S. Lewis<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyxMmB331WSrgFAPaUYBupc0nkCgEbyYIUSr5rpgVefqwYY7sk9p7m7qyXyfF6zivcNmA6-EDEnIeKqC17c5yqIpZXk8Jjf37g65uSViSHiwgHthxKBtz96jeaS8y27eyKC_WEFkRnAHyu/s1600/narnia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyxMmB331WSrgFAPaUYBupc0nkCgEbyYIUSr5rpgVefqwYY7sk9p7m7qyXyfF6zivcNmA6-EDEnIeKqC17c5yqIpZXk8Jjf37g65uSViSHiwgHthxKBtz96jeaS8y27eyKC_WEFkRnAHyu/s320/narnia.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11127.The_Chronicles_of_Narnia?from_search=true&search_version=service">1. The Chronicles of Narnia</a></h3>
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I picked up <i>The Lion. The Witch, and The Wardrobe </i>when I was about 8. I remember mentioning it to my dad who told me it was one of his favorite books. This confused me. Why was an adult so interested in a book clearly written for children? Now I get it. Narnia teaches you about courage, benevolence, integrity coupled with Christian beliefs and values. Narnia is fun and magical, yet real and serious at the same time. C.S. Lewis, thank you for sharing your world with us. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1069006.C_S_Lewis">2. Clive Staples</a></h3>
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One of my favorite things about Lewis is his life story. He struggled with his faith, love life, depression and was wounded during war time. Just as Narnia mirrors his faith, many of his other books mirror his struggles and triumphs. When I was in high school, a friend of mine committed suicide. I struggled with this for some time. I found consolation in Lewis's <i>A Grief Observed. </i>He understood that grief and sorrow are necessary and helped the reader revel in their pain and then find the strength to pull themselves out of it. </div>
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<i>"No one ever told me that grief felt so like fear. I am not afraid, but the sensation is like being afraid. The same fluttering in your stomach, the same restlessness, the yawning. I keep on swallowing." </i></div>
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<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/C._S._Lewis#Jane_Moore">3. His Kindness</a></h3>
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During his time in the army, Lewis and a friend made a pact that if either were to die, the other would take care of both families. Lewis's friend "Paddy" Moore died in 1918. Lewis cared for his mother, Jane Moore, until she became quite ill and passed away. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/quotes/1069006.C_S_Lewis">4. His Humor</a></h3>
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"Someday, you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again."</div>
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If you didn't laugh during <i>The Horse and His Boy</i>, your funny bone is most definitely broken. Lewis does an excellent job embodying the mind of a child and oh what fun it is to laugh at childish things! </div>
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<a href="http://www.literarytraveler.com/articles/tolkien_lewis_england/">5. His Choice in Friends</a></h3>
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Many fans know that Tolkien and Lewis were friends and rivals. This fact warms me to my very soul. No two men in existence had a stronger impact on my imagination and love for literature than these two. Sometimes I wonder if they knew how important their works would be to lonely little girls who would rather read than play kickball during recess. </div>
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<i>Find more Top Ten lists at www.brokeandbookish.com</i></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-73346600441098661822016-05-27T07:00:00.000-07:002016-05-27T07:00:45.427-07:00Everything I Never Told You<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18693763-everything-i-never-told-you" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="Everything I Never Told You" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1386795198m/18693763.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18693763-everything-i-never-told-you">Everything I Never Told You</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/164692.Celeste_Ng">Celeste Ng</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1634429882">3 of 5 stars</a><br />
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Beautifully written, but too much for my heart. I felt as though Everything I Never Told You forced the reader to suffer just for suffering sake. I do love myself a good heart wrenching novel but this one wrenched and pulled and twisted. I found myself in a bad mood after reading it. I had to force myself to turn the pages. I didn't want to know what happened next. <br />
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The characters were beautifully done. I connected with Lydia on a level only introverts can but I still couldn't enjoy this book. <br />
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I give it a three because it is beautiful and Ng clearly does a great job emoting feeling in the reader, but I just couldn't take it. <br />
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My heart hurts thinking about Hannah holding her sister's broken locket. I just can't.
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/45909896-mallory">View all my reviews</a>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-4344852089726758072016-05-24T07:42:00.000-07:002016-05-24T07:42:19.943-07:00Top Ten Tuesday: Five Books I Feel Differently About After Time Has Passed <h3 style="text-align: center;">
1. The Giver</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgTfCrEr6O-EPGaPTiVhEZw2pAAcxAZz1PMgipKJAyeJAYboJlt_mTgfBiIela0wInnRk2syNqvoztn9o7T2PSaX-U1GXD3x4ickRmljqPxJMGV4-siLYPC9uMjOZmsbLyaJVZJBwle24u/s1600/giver.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgTfCrEr6O-EPGaPTiVhEZw2pAAcxAZz1PMgipKJAyeJAYboJlt_mTgfBiIela0wInnRk2syNqvoztn9o7T2PSaX-U1GXD3x4ickRmljqPxJMGV4-siLYPC9uMjOZmsbLyaJVZJBwle24u/s200/giver.jpg" width="120" /></a></div>
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This was one of the first books that really made an impact on me. I read it first as an 8 year old and then again recently as an adult. There were so many things I missed the first time around. I knew I loved this book, but as time has passed, I discovered it is part of who I have become. This is part of what saddens me when students tell me they hate reading, you're missing out on part of your identity. </div>
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<br />2. Fahrenheit 451</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix8pS_jod4892J_E4pWdA4KMUEHTGenCU2jOj7kN_eBWqozC_4DpYf8VCKVjwjNFzEnpAwKU1dEhk1QBwZI-CXLvan_oLMkqd5Wjew0pMulXST-gcbQLOkvhqBMtNryGrGjSDN_WkXhp28/s1600/Fahrenheit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix8pS_jod4892J_E4pWdA4KMUEHTGenCU2jOj7kN_eBWqozC_4DpYf8VCKVjwjNFzEnpAwKU1dEhk1QBwZI-CXLvan_oLMkqd5Wjew0pMulXST-gcbQLOkvhqBMtNryGrGjSDN_WkXhp28/s200/Fahrenheit.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
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"It was a pleasure to burn." This is the part I did not fully understand years ago as a high school freshman. I did not get what was "pleasurable." But after reading it again, I now understand how easy it is to see something evil as pleasurable. </div>
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3. The Great Gatsby</h3>
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I know, I talk about this book a lot. Who can blame me? Fitzgerald writes prose like none other. Every time I read it (I've read it about 5 times) I notice something I didn't before. Most recently, I was filled with sorrow for Daisy's children more than ever before. They are trophies, just like Daisy. As Daisy describes, their best hope in this world is to be "beautiful fools." </div>
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4.. The Alchemist</h3>
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It is simply not possible for someone to grasp this book completely on the first read. In fact, it is not possible to grasp it entirely, ever. Coelho fills this book with such wisdom and peace that can never be fully understood. Like the Bible, it can be interpreted in hundreds of ways. When I first read it, I thought it was well written but a little dry. Upon reading it a second time, I discovered it is not at all dry! It is full of sweet, juicy prose. </div>
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5. The Chronicles of Narnia</h3>
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At first, Narnia was a fictional world full of fantasy and imagination. But after I have grown and re-read it, I have learned that it is a story of faith. When characters are tempted and fail, we see them redeemed. When faith is tested, it shines out all the clearer. Yes, this book is for children. But that is only the starting point. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-4145113876372014992016-05-12T07:19:00.000-07:002016-05-12T07:19:08.799-07:00The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18293427-the-storied-life-of-a-j-fikry" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1404582137m/18293427.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18293427-the-storied-life-of-a-j-fikry">The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/40593.Gabrielle_Zevin">Gabrielle Zevin</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1609280382">5 of 5 stars</a><br />
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I loved every minute of this book. It was written simply yet large themes could be found throughout. I found myself loving AJ and Maya and everything they go through. This was one of those books that I wish went on forever. I could never get enough. <br />
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Zevin's simplistic tone emoted feelings to the very core of the reader. As I learned about Maya's mother and read her creative story, I couldn't help but feel as though I were on the beach as well with my toes touching the cold, damp sand. <br />
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This is the perfect lazy Sunday book.
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/45909896-mallory">View all my reviews</a>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-87542047554627927322016-05-09T11:55:00.000-07:002016-05-09T11:55:18.007-07:00What Alice Forgot<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6469165-what-alice-forgot" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="What Alice Forgot" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1377159022m/6469165.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6469165-what-alice-forgot">What Alice Forgot</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/322069.Liane_Moriarty">Liane Moriarty</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1623293168">4 of 5 stars</a><br />
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This is a tale of a 29 year old trapped in the body of 40 year old...well sort of. Alice hits her head in spin class and forgets 10 years of her life.<br />
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Moriarty's writing style was catchy and fun. This story really makes you think about what you value in life and how your maturity and age has such a strong influence on relationships and perspectives. <br />
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I particularly enjoyed that the story followed her memory loss more than it did the love story between her and Nick. There were snippets of ooey-gooeyness but not an unbearable amount. <br />
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I would suggest this as an easy vacation read.
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/45909896-mallory">View all my reviews</a>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-79458622850257410412016-05-02T20:28:00.002-07:002016-05-02T20:28:28.049-07:00Top Ten Tuesday: Ten Childhood Characters I'd Love to Revisit<h2 style="text-align: left;">
Everyone is nostalgic about books they read as a child, what characters do you wish you could revisit as adults? For more Top Ten lists, visit brokeandbookish.com</h2>
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1. Ramona</h3>
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I used to pretend Ramona Quimby was my best friend. I read all the books and Beverly Cleary sure knows how to make an 8 year old laugh! It would be fun to know if Ramona went to college, if she grew out of her awkward phases, etc. </div>
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2. Junie B. Jones</h3>
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What a character, right? She's loud, obnoxious and sweet in her own sort of way. This really kind of describes all kindergartners though. Did she ever become less disgusting? Is she still extremely violent? I hope so. </div>
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3. Magic Tree House Kids</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw8-dIEZVYEV4ss7pkN9hZ2jwWhktguXm8CdY9vEy3ssaExPnlN3qEywvZNgBx7qtkI-13ghG0a5KbN31rmdARLiwv58cmkGPiVYezOBUGRvEShkmNiUoTi3-UVh3V8sGYhziksBr-xVHM/s1600/magic+tree+house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw8-dIEZVYEV4ss7pkN9hZ2jwWhktguXm8CdY9vEy3ssaExPnlN3qEywvZNgBx7qtkI-13ghG0a5KbN31rmdARLiwv58cmkGPiVYezOBUGRvEShkmNiUoTi3-UVh3V8sGYhziksBr-xVHM/s200/magic+tree+house.jpg" width="134" /></a></div>
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Oh my gosh, I love this series. Did the magic fade as the kids grew up? Did they become anthropologists? </div>
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4. Brian from The Hatchet</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnj4c7DCf9WoZ0Rt2StrVcJYrMLnMtK3h9gsqL2cqjGDkVsydUqwGj7KnBmysRPp1tOszmjovUKSR_Ug1UslT8dF9Vn3A8FmpR0L7KrqP3oEtFtZ0QBOgcZG6siSsc6VpVkg5x9jSOAww4/s1600/Hatchet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnj4c7DCf9WoZ0Rt2StrVcJYrMLnMtK3h9gsqL2cqjGDkVsydUqwGj7KnBmysRPp1tOszmjovUKSR_Ug1UslT8dF9Vn3A8FmpR0L7KrqP3oEtFtZ0QBOgcZG6siSsc6VpVkg5x9jSOAww4/s200/Hatchet.jpg" width="117" /></a></div>
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I really like to think Brian became the scruffy yet attractive star of a survival show. </div>
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5. Baudelaire family</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp8Y5Tp3bBWnaiqpwz7a0juW3k4_XrZNksTk-PAzyMD6NvnsqG-tUjxPoyVGqYqHmQ-aVR3qhdDLVwP_NxsmL8KDGmVPMtNAFJehkzBmlsgTwfzDXIak4CYhZxV2HWc2YwY9ZR9N8ykHr2/s1600/series+of+unfortunate+events.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp8Y5Tp3bBWnaiqpwz7a0juW3k4_XrZNksTk-PAzyMD6NvnsqG-tUjxPoyVGqYqHmQ-aVR3qhdDLVwP_NxsmL8KDGmVPMtNAFJehkzBmlsgTwfzDXIak4CYhZxV2HWc2YwY9ZR9N8ykHr2/s200/series+of+unfortunate+events.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
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The Baudelaire children all had great potential, if they were real, one of them would rule the world by now. </div>
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6. Stanley Yelnats</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdbskgaFnWStuIx8JMFzMOdBlhei2edfg8dWeYAXgEmT-IwyFrN3v7QBeMcXV8zrMChAdHGz9crz0bVwCEPbepp7bN-p79_nZArHQSYcXUD07X1DrLt8fhSDqmixdRiv-QCUuIUr6ehKEe/s1600/holes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdbskgaFnWStuIx8JMFzMOdBlhei2edfg8dWeYAXgEmT-IwyFrN3v7QBeMcXV8zrMChAdHGz9crz0bVwCEPbepp7bN-p79_nZArHQSYcXUD07X1DrLt8fhSDqmixdRiv-QCUuIUr6ehKEe/s200/holes.jpg" width="129" /></a></div>
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We all know him and Zero became rich, but what did they spend all their money on? Was he able to live off of it for his whole life? Did he help other troubled youth? </div>
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7. Island of the Blue Dolphins</h3>
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I would love to know more about Karana. I also think it would be interesting to know how the story compares to the actual story of Juana Maria. </div>
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8. Tuck Everlasting</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsVc-n8BFCUiogQm1jaRixkJd5XDFJqgtX-xyS5tKFDKw4a_AEPKh-UrQset-G3vHvT77TE1539Fgcts7nUULHBDPj66qpvgM3lH2E4kNg6phiomJXKkYmEU6YEaPqZky5sX8VPDjeGnVl/s1600/tuck+everlasting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsVc-n8BFCUiogQm1jaRixkJd5XDFJqgtX-xyS5tKFDKw4a_AEPKh-UrQset-G3vHvT77TE1539Fgcts7nUULHBDPj66qpvgM3lH2E4kNg6phiomJXKkYmEU6YEaPqZky5sX8VPDjeGnVl/s200/tuck+everlasting.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
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Guys, this book was only alright. But I would love a modern remake, I think I might like that more. </div>
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9.Stellaluna</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQC_JRuxaNvHLt40uV1dLTzn8bdw2poGDT6I1F_6tmgxJCtj0IZn_fh-QYqJ42L6zDigsVTw8-2nPmz3D0_BjtyRDctJuIuhd9rEOPcvuB4ypLrgFvJnUhJzZz_CUvfo1uNc1RyGrb0UqA/s1600/stellaluna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQC_JRuxaNvHLt40uV1dLTzn8bdw2poGDT6I1F_6tmgxJCtj0IZn_fh-QYqJ42L6zDigsVTw8-2nPmz3D0_BjtyRDctJuIuhd9rEOPcvuB4ypLrgFvJnUhJzZz_CUvfo1uNc1RyGrb0UqA/s200/stellaluna.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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I just want another book. Not one that shows Stellaluna grown up, but just another adventure of hers as a baby bat.</div>
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10. From the Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoWgddU8oZrpEG3WKy92YmVRcpx-FN0KGXxG8lUDx6mH5pUGdody2oIJlKpxeYOETQChLr27Fa6m_vNlzbNLAH4pUekZxuf-UHjatSHTN7ZcIQ5jY1lVzVewYp6HhamoBXTBp_icG2dY3t/s1600/mixed+up+files.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoWgddU8oZrpEG3WKy92YmVRcpx-FN0KGXxG8lUDx6mH5pUGdody2oIJlKpxeYOETQChLr27Fa6m_vNlzbNLAH4pUekZxuf-UHjatSHTN7ZcIQ5jY1lVzVewYp6HhamoBXTBp_icG2dY3t/s200/mixed+up+files.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
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Surely living in a museum helps create pretty interesting adults. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-73282447894716471802016-04-28T07:10:00.000-07:002016-04-28T07:10:05.544-07:00The Night Circus<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9361589-the-night-circus" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="The Night Circus" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1387124618m/9361589.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9361589-the-night-circus">The Night Circus</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4370565.Erin_Morgenstern">Erin Morgenstern</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1546399709">3 of 5 stars</a><br />
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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 <i>The Prestige</i>. 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. <br />
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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. <br />
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I would definitely recommend this to someone interested in YA books with a slight fantasy twist.
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/45909896-mallory">View all my reviews</a>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-24989629895256386022016-04-26T07:18:00.000-07:002016-04-26T07:18:01.481-07:00Top Ten Tuesday: Bookworm DelightsIf 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.<br />
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1. Staying up all night to finish the book</h3>
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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. </div>
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2. A cozy blanket, an awesome book and my dog warming my feet</h3>
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I have the coziest blanket, the best dog and great taste in books. That is a great recipe for a truly perfect evening. </div>
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3. When books I love reference other books I love</h3>
I get so giddy when I'm reading along and BAM there's a reference to <i>Dandelion Wine </i>by Ray Bradbury. It just warms me to my very core.<br />
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4. When the metaphors come full circle</h3>
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Nothing is quite as satisfying as when the metaphor from the beginning comes full circle. </div>
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5. Sun bathing with an ice cold Diet Dr Pepper and <i>The Great Gatsby</i></h3>
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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. </div>
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6. The perfect neck pillow</h3>
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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. </div>
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7. Shopping for books</h3>
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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. </div>
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8. Unique writing style</h3>
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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. </div>
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9. Bookmarks</h3>
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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. </div>
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10. Libraries</h3>
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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. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-29819618139089813352016-04-19T07:15:00.000-07:002016-04-19T07:15:00.239-07:00Top Ten Tuesday: Ten Books That Will Make You Laugh (or at least chuckle)<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20697471-food?from_new_nav=true&ac=1&from_search=true">1. Food: A Love Story</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9YT_Ym04WTAlnk3yoICl2_cp1xffR4NfOMnfanIy4kR5pWlwT7z_vunhZc7LFwFr3iQOoDQ4rFgVFX2mA-ApP8jDRwRQCPtEsQhdY7VVAhG3IqEF_NRbf5YyuYlB79XhFcyRuvQa76Qk6/s1600/food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9YT_Ym04WTAlnk3yoICl2_cp1xffR4NfOMnfanIy4kR5pWlwT7z_vunhZc7LFwFr3iQOoDQ4rFgVFX2mA-ApP8jDRwRQCPtEsQhdY7VVAhG3IqEF_NRbf5YyuYlB79XhFcyRuvQa76Qk6/s200/food.jpg" width="129" /></a></div>
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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. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10335308-is-everyone-hanging-out-without-me?from_new_nav=true&ac=1&from_search=true">2. Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPOnwcUudh_NZ05QnE4Jf4EUf-MNApw1pTlxYsNXs0xIj8_DjhfoILOB5sa5AjZtE10j2qWKdu299IOe64TBNK6YLZskutAsbKQvvjNqLUIPHIN5Ex5UidAD1rMGdtZhM77vRNyxJzhUTb/s1600/Everyone+Hanging+out+without+me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPOnwcUudh_NZ05QnE4Jf4EUf-MNApw1pTlxYsNXs0xIj8_DjhfoILOB5sa5AjZtE10j2qWKdu299IOe64TBNK6YLZskutAsbKQvvjNqLUIPHIN5Ex5UidAD1rMGdtZhM77vRNyxJzhUTb/s200/Everyone+Hanging+out+without+me.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
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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). </div>
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3. Who Ordered the Jumbo Shrimp?</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinNLJS8iNcUNCMq9_ZyMdWrrZhkpplDvqgMlClab7gdY3q7ZjahHF0L2LKP24w9hTXj0ocQ4VDGGwqknzyrqIsiBJN316Fsl2fPcCOivSahjvlgG9LGfelXBt1RTo5KB8eE27mHb0ogiRm/s1600/jumbo+shrimp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="137" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinNLJS8iNcUNCMq9_ZyMdWrrZhkpplDvqgMlClab7gdY3q7ZjahHF0L2LKP24w9hTXj0ocQ4VDGGwqknzyrqIsiBJN316Fsl2fPcCOivSahjvlgG9LGfelXBt1RTo5KB8eE27mHb0ogiRm/s200/jumbo+shrimp.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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I love oxymorons. I think they are hilarious. My favorite is probably dress pants... how can you be a dress and pants??? Silly oxymorons</div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6442769-paper-towns?from_search=true&search_version=service">4. Paper Towns</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ENjXXOb71XQ01ygJYxvVnwrfaI1iZtVkQ9BAP3K5s17uQfRZyYmCISwW6Fg8_jUrqev1qgE4dVH-yvIeSesY9FNUBKsCHFK4unRmibtoE3uYhXSlDaPPAOt4iCDG4BSO8VcJ8YRdtIxy/s1600/paper+towns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ENjXXOb71XQ01ygJYxvVnwrfaI1iZtVkQ9BAP3K5s17uQfRZyYmCISwW6Fg8_jUrqev1qgE4dVH-yvIeSesY9FNUBKsCHFK4unRmibtoE3uYhXSlDaPPAOt4iCDG4BSO8VcJ8YRdtIxy/s200/paper+towns.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
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John Green masters teenage sarcasm. Not my favorite book, but I definitely chuckled quite a few times. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21787.The_Princess_Bride?from_new_nav=true&ac=1&from_search=true">5. The Princess Bride</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ZQmcYty8foA-Al9QWKXMz_rQaTi7A0TFO3WoAICUuif7H1yOC8pnjZ0nrp2g6XD3sIRPHQBEHk837v2GmxgoYuXGmCtn7GLi4jJmR2ogdHU2RNDpuCfUqjk1Etz7b20doZUG-J8bXXly/s1600/princess.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ZQmcYty8foA-Al9QWKXMz_rQaTi7A0TFO3WoAICUuif7H1yOC8pnjZ0nrp2g6XD3sIRPHQBEHk837v2GmxgoYuXGmCtn7GLi4jJmR2ogdHU2RNDpuCfUqjk1Etz7b20doZUG-J8bXXly/s200/princess.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
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I don't usually say inflammatory things, but if you don't like <i>The Princess Bride, </i>I don't think I want to be your friend.</div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31181.Breathing_Lessons?from_search=true&search_version=service">6. Breathing Lessons</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW7w0crNZSJspJIQxDNsYNYMkkrJaxLQumgll36t1762vlHN17JSY4hNs7eKmtDjXHbKwabPaHzvcCUcSWMNL-Jx9R0BorsZeX8GfOJhvYLYBa4MZCRhzpASd8iDGGop9opstXuyCdPmjL/s1600/breathing.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW7w0crNZSJspJIQxDNsYNYMkkrJaxLQumgll36t1762vlHN17JSY4hNs7eKmtDjXHbKwabPaHzvcCUcSWMNL-Jx9R0BorsZeX8GfOJhvYLYBa4MZCRhzpASd8iDGGop9opstXuyCdPmjL/s200/breathing.JPG" width="137" /></a></div>
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A tale of silly arguments, a meddling mother and a complicated road trip. Looking for a fun, light read? This is it. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12700353-me-and-earl-and-the-dying-girl?from_new_nav=true&ac=1&from_search=true">7. Matilda</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3rMRlVnrtFqbgr-xqmsE6Rgsb5hxfO_NxsX8GHUhu5MVeZQcR-I_i-x3D3yf2u5Ue9b2O4iiLsLAYXhVWQ5WRaJiWp_SXzvIEEjr_Ad2FDo2Uh3OU_EPizm7yeawndWvn_K9si7KV6boJ/s1600/matilda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3rMRlVnrtFqbgr-xqmsE6Rgsb5hxfO_NxsX8GHUhu5MVeZQcR-I_i-x3D3yf2u5Ue9b2O4iiLsLAYXhVWQ5WRaJiWp_SXzvIEEjr_Ad2FDo2Uh3OU_EPizm7yeawndWvn_K9si7KV6boJ/s200/matilda.jpg" width="140" /></a></div>
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If you're reading this blog, then you were probably a weird book kid and totally related to Matilda. I sure did. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12700353-me-and-earl-and-the-dying-girl?from_new_nav=true&ac=1&from_search=true">8.Me and Earl and the Dying Girl</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvnbK3PHkF0xJg-nqIHRjJqad_FIl0nEsuR-7wxruKEww4rv9tgw9xvK6ZqkWQdT0nrtTOmPHry00VC722FQOL2VdDP20k_UoM2CdtbPn-XQ9cMQ5eWShPh62v_sY0JRVaKYWQkLmVebPI/s1600/me+and+earl+and+the+dying+girl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvnbK3PHkF0xJg-nqIHRjJqad_FIl0nEsuR-7wxruKEww4rv9tgw9xvK6ZqkWQdT0nrtTOmPHry00VC722FQOL2VdDP20k_UoM2CdtbPn-XQ9cMQ5eWShPh62v_sY0JRVaKYWQkLmVebPI/s200/me+and+earl+and+the+dying+girl.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
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Every awkward interaction will have cringing and laughing!</div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18007564-the-martian?from_search=true&search_version=service">9. The Martian</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3YeCPhcouAxgALxg3dcqLx8fT6xtcQAFLKI-5aLUtlH8RB5xoCg-TJWxmEgsLr9McE5b6l9k5WCZudzsYgwmRBrAqO4KIVTBcBuGLcfCPMU7X_q93jeYMP9jC9baL5BHQtwiYrQrBCmhs/s1600/the+martian.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3YeCPhcouAxgALxg3dcqLx8fT6xtcQAFLKI-5aLUtlH8RB5xoCg-TJWxmEgsLr9McE5b6l9k5WCZudzsYgwmRBrAqO4KIVTBcBuGLcfCPMU7X_q93jeYMP9jC9baL5BHQtwiYrQrBCmhs/s200/the+martian.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
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This is the funniest sci-fi ever. I was surprised at how much humor is in this book.</div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10335308-is-everyone-hanging-out-without-me?from_new_nav=true&ac=1&from_search=true">10. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer</a></h3>
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It's amazing how Twain can fill one book with so much joy and laughter while still maintaining serious themes about honesty and belonging.</div>
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<i>For more lists, visit brokeandbookish.com. </i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-73817790062171611862016-04-12T06:56:00.000-07:002016-04-12T06:56:00.235-07:00Top Ten Tuesday: Ten Books to Read if You Love Thrillers<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Top Ten Tuesday is a blog hosted by The Broke and Bookish. For more lists, visit brokeandbookish.com. </h3>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19288043-gone-girl?from_search=true&search_version=service">1. Gone Girl</a></h3>
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While it wasn't my favorite book, <i>Gone Girl </i>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. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22557272-the-girl-on-the-train?from_search=true&search_version=service">2. Girl on the Train</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1hXGmR3dN7gKYrMOba4o2q7jg2pjMoOAuXN2AzoXGIBGNsC4GD_H2LsU8mFiCPCmdFaXay_lWPpVfB0CDpK1a8WQWBGi-L75ums1qBdog5H9x27s9O_8ZPGTmlX_Q_VzzD5qCK9gOvTnS/s1600/girl+on+a+train.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1hXGmR3dN7gKYrMOba4o2q7jg2pjMoOAuXN2AzoXGIBGNsC4GD_H2LsU8mFiCPCmdFaXay_lWPpVfB0CDpK1a8WQWBGi-L75ums1qBdog5H9x27s9O_8ZPGTmlX_Q_VzzD5qCK9gOvTnS/s200/girl+on+a+train.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
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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. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13353667-zoo?from_search=true&search_version=service">3. Zoo</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLH130wN0SkjdVrUDXXGPA_ckqWgslPZPvgwDYLPcaSa37eR6DN9j8CC6liKYM_fLsiw7WkntUeaMQJwN2AaMk4k2aBUhqc7b-cWx_A5hVL4dwyn4lgsqASZcmv5IY1mhE3BdeR7GNh-qI/s1600/Zoo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLH130wN0SkjdVrUDXXGPA_ckqWgslPZPvgwDYLPcaSa37eR6DN9j8CC6liKYM_fLsiw7WkntUeaMQJwN2AaMk4k2aBUhqc7b-cWx_A5hVL4dwyn4lgsqASZcmv5IY1mhE3BdeR7GNh-qI/s200/Zoo.jpg" width="124" /></a></div>
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This is an awesome and terrifying book. If you liked, <i>Jurassic Park, White Fang, </i>or any other animal thriller, you're bound to like this one. It's probably my favorite by Patterson. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/968.The_Da_Vinci_Code?from_search=true&search_version=service">4. The DaVinci Code</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDZ-6XUIRQwh-yTcIwxDCoPhlnQOAgYm1Lehka3k4lLX6fVBAvwZi2t6EJYC-j3KAd8iwEbbeiN4XQj82rfE33nHa4qgwuhmJUhvC6APFlhZkkE0C0UxcN4kPmcxwyhRIrZo54OPcOTPWi/s1600/DaVinciCode.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDZ-6XUIRQwh-yTcIwxDCoPhlnQOAgYm1Lehka3k4lLX6fVBAvwZi2t6EJYC-j3KAd8iwEbbeiN4XQj82rfE33nHa4qgwuhmJUhvC6APFlhZkkE0C0UxcN4kPmcxwyhRIrZo54OPcOTPWi/s200/DaVinciCode.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
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<i>The DaVinci Code </i>is a fun and exciting book. It's the perfect length for a car ride!! </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/170650.Loves_Music_Loves_to_Dance?from_search=true&search_version=service">5. Loves Music, Loves to Dance</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieYe7DN5oo_IgztpX5TkekZLr-rUBW-IOrKPoeXHagh6RfBRU9y0wjpjB7BwN0Qlj-QcL-mDnDhLMeEK8J0BVvmf-gCOtrcsmjuY2H_aJT9OM9bHq2lnNB1ptZQsEUTgt17Hk4c4vaHyzx/s1600/loves+music+loves+to+dance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieYe7DN5oo_IgztpX5TkekZLr-rUBW-IOrKPoeXHagh6RfBRU9y0wjpjB7BwN0Qlj-QcL-mDnDhLMeEK8J0BVvmf-gCOtrcsmjuY2H_aJT9OM9bHq2lnNB1ptZQsEUTgt17Hk4c4vaHyzx/s200/loves+music+loves+to+dance.jpg" width="120" /></a></div>
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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! </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18007564-the-martian?from_search=true&search_version=service">6. The Martian</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmpLED_aaVb6vecY_mPisdAanBjKqU0xOWtNzQb2QBAjxMnHmSUdRXEqnCmyxl0GqExQScINHz-o7o1iSYgLAfw9B4rwL-Rpp424vju0apbKETVcphyhQJEUFKm8EpWnr0AR_8Pbyp4kia/s1600/the+martian.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmpLED_aaVb6vecY_mPisdAanBjKqU0xOWtNzQb2QBAjxMnHmSUdRXEqnCmyxl0GqExQScINHz-o7o1iSYgLAfw9B4rwL-Rpp424vju0apbKETVcphyhQJEUFKm8EpWnr0AR_8Pbyp4kia/s200/the+martian.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
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So much fun! I loved the book, I loved the movie. This is a must read. Once you start, you'll be hooked. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2767052-the-hunger-games?from_search=true&search_version=service">7.Hunger Games</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8oOhyevt9sYLLR5u7wTTxmcF0Lpy09aLnRnzlxaBlgNJ_V4ge65d_wflxFBwl-Dc_I9JXyzY0Pf6dNxqkxzCnJrMM8cYPxNG3qM5b3pCITc9ZN35sCD93BTuSWg7GISsg_5VlhzHv3izT/s1600/Hunger+Games.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8oOhyevt9sYLLR5u7wTTxmcF0Lpy09aLnRnzlxaBlgNJ_V4ge65d_wflxFBwl-Dc_I9JXyzY0Pf6dNxqkxzCnJrMM8cYPxNG3qM5b3pCITc9ZN35sCD93BTuSWg7GISsg_5VlhzHv3izT/s200/Hunger+Games.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/248596.Something_Wicked_This_Way_Comes?from_search=true&search_version=service">8. Something Wicked This Way Comes</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOY1oXauJdcy9ajRZ64wADZFWIL8swvgpUOR94DBWTj_RK2k26iK-0je4II3ylG71NwKWZp8-4MySdfnKx8_r663HBxrvuf4aEBuRj8D2pT4J6kC6n6x-cg0pHEn-v_fgFJVerTQGySONH/s1600/something+wicked+this+way+comes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOY1oXauJdcy9ajRZ64wADZFWIL8swvgpUOR94DBWTj_RK2k26iK-0je4II3ylG71NwKWZp8-4MySdfnKx8_r663HBxrvuf4aEBuRj8D2pT4J6kC6n6x-cg0pHEn-v_fgFJVerTQGySONH/s200/something+wicked+this+way+comes.jpg" width="121" /></a></div>
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I know, I talk about this one a lot. But it is worth the hype. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/14995.Odd_Thomas?from_search=true&search_version=service">9. Odd Thomas</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ0fS-KHz6XPsrnbadjjzlszO_xurHgrl6BUjq3xCzQU7HAv2ZbwiAdIe4xoDVJQqKOiIkczo6nZXbFQxmxo9BOUWM54_VH0_soDmase9qgt_4AHN8qdB8lhTnRAMe3Ab9a8oVtE6ZrgQk/s1600/odd+thomas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ0fS-KHz6XPsrnbadjjzlszO_xurHgrl6BUjq3xCzQU7HAv2ZbwiAdIe4xoDVJQqKOiIkczo6nZXbFQxmxo9BOUWM54_VH0_soDmase9qgt_4AHN8qdB8lhTnRAMe3Ab9a8oVtE6ZrgQk/s200/odd+thomas.jpg" width="121" /></a></div>
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Probably my favorite Dean Koontz book. All his stuff is intense and thrilling. It's great for a weekend off! </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/375802.Ender_s_Game?from_search=true&search_version=service">10. Ender's Game</a></h3>
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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! </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-6143167656308256422016-04-04T08:03:00.000-07:002016-04-04T08:27:48.942-07:00The Enchanted<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18090147-the-enchanted" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="The Enchanted" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1373991244m/18090147.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18090147-the-enchanted">The Enchanted</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/56358.Rene_Denfeld">Rene Denfeld</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1366013339">5 of 5 stars</a><br />
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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. <br />
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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. <br />
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While the story is quite dark, I couldn't help but be riveted by Denfeld's imagery and prose.<br />
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"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."<br />
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This book is like no other. Read it if only to experience transcendence in the most unlikely of places.
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/45909896-mallory">View all my reviews</a>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-38408843164662313152016-03-29T06:42:00.000-07:002016-03-30T07:25:46.173-07:00Top Ten Tuesday: 5 Star Reads <div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24830.The_Illustrated_Man">1. Illustrated Man</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl0aAXBrGDhY5j5KGqOb-Zy55iYRiqvWAGwt1o_PBr-ouVw-KuMv-bCEp1qVJc5q3H-iydVOQZRLTG511c4OCoBeAFlE5L2x0khLqpUvQYGBL9da-R_wZPM0u-5quHcvpzcuA_w3ZgGGTC/s1600/Illustrated+Man.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl0aAXBrGDhY5j5KGqOb-Zy55iYRiqvWAGwt1o_PBr-ouVw-KuMv-bCEp1qVJc5q3H-iydVOQZRLTG511c4OCoBeAFlE5L2x0khLqpUvQYGBL9da-R_wZPM0u-5quHcvpzcuA_w3ZgGGTC/s200/Illustrated+Man.jpg" width="123" /></a></div>
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The <i>Illustrated Man </i>is one of my all time favorite books. Bradbury has such a unique writing style and masters the creepy factor. This book is full of sub stories all encompassed in the tale of The Illustrated Man. If you have read <i>Something Wicked this Way Comes, </i>you will recognize the name of this character but this story follows a very different story line. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24583.The_Adventures_of_Tom_Sawyer?from_new_nav=true&ac=1&from_search=true">2.The Adventures of Tom Sawyer</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrPEAYxPMofFEVc9pOeLXRnChV-XC4XKzYToDO0FZJLtYdsb3Q6JX-71OcVz0ImGfjkQXwr2RbM7TVgPZcdcdtreW2ejbcdYzMgrY4gfZGqhkJ6T5-3YOn_8diSlM6xMpIckpw7ixB5BRW/s1600/Tom+Sawyer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrPEAYxPMofFEVc9pOeLXRnChV-XC4XKzYToDO0FZJLtYdsb3Q6JX-71OcVz0ImGfjkQXwr2RbM7TVgPZcdcdtreW2ejbcdYzMgrY4gfZGqhkJ6T5-3YOn_8diSlM6xMpIckpw7ixB5BRW/s200/Tom+Sawyer.jpg" width="145" /></a></div>
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We all know the story, but if you haven't actually read the book, you need to. Twain is hilarious and clever. This tale is so much more than a book. Huck and Tom will be your family by the end. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24280.Les_Mis_rables?from_search=true&search_version=service">3. Les Miserables</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPeL4DgpNqNmouFp3Zb5CQgGFBnPzwZko7xwXu_md6PuXHh2MlPwgwbmdoT4hQ0sapjp0OGJidNcUfXQwBPHnaJOOaTACmI6kEWCTXtkQYh-6y_U8o6IO-QHbg4GAtzJyjtI5_KdttYh8J/s1600/Les+Mis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPeL4DgpNqNmouFp3Zb5CQgGFBnPzwZko7xwXu_md6PuXHh2MlPwgwbmdoT4hQ0sapjp0OGJidNcUfXQwBPHnaJOOaTACmI6kEWCTXtkQYh-6y_U8o6IO-QHbg4GAtzJyjtI5_KdttYh8J/s200/Les+Mis.jpg" width="120" /></a></div>
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<i>Les Miserables </i>is by no means a light read. Your heart will break repeatedly as you read this tale. But you will be glad to have it broken. There is a love in this book you won't find anywhere else. Your definitions of love, Christianity and morality will all be questioned. If you are looking for something deep and life changing, this is your book. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3431.The_Five_People_You_Meet_in_Heaven?from_new_nav=true&ac=1&from_search=true">4. The Five People You Meet in Heaven</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXceyBwJfzYvk6bfOyrerzFrZKdGPIh9nNcJjH6BNnZLUUZpt3Q65GoR2UsmfrW8ptb55pPzIfuq9vMYu8RaNRiQDFnBfzpYdgI__1wrb9jTFXir634zaRMvjGcT7PHqF2a8Z-uUI010jW/s1600/Five+People+you+Meet+in+heaven.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXceyBwJfzYvk6bfOyrerzFrZKdGPIh9nNcJjH6BNnZLUUZpt3Q65GoR2UsmfrW8ptb55pPzIfuq9vMYu8RaNRiQDFnBfzpYdgI__1wrb9jTFXir634zaRMvjGcT7PHqF2a8Z-uUI010jW/s200/Five+People+you+Meet+in+heaven.jpg" width="136" /></a></div>
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This is a sad but sweet tale of redemption. Albom is great when it comes to evoking empathy and imagination. You will feel in this book. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3636.The_Giver?from_new_nav=true&ac=1&from_search=true">5. The Giver</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWtmrKYx3mfa2fcH5On-6dC9yuBmBSce_JiAS3eVA47lvUExOlqMUY8KQPZYTqEUNusCvJWEW_-82uotP-dJDPL8YO2aEX8tu5AZPbx077o7BqqpCyrm3GaxbLSUorTv5KWYzIAgah08Cx/s1600/giver.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWtmrKYx3mfa2fcH5On-6dC9yuBmBSce_JiAS3eVA47lvUExOlqMUY8KQPZYTqEUNusCvJWEW_-82uotP-dJDPL8YO2aEX8tu5AZPbx077o7BqqpCyrm3GaxbLSUorTv5KWYzIAgah08Cx/s200/giver.jpg" width="120" /></a></div>
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I know I've already talked about <i>The Giver, </i>but it was one of the first books that really had an impact on me as a child and I still hold it very dear to my heart. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/133518.The_Things_They_Carried?from_search=true&search_version=service">6. The Things They Carried</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdgc2Yhx7idzEmLenNmWkNGlrYd_ofCnFXRQSkIG87nVw4BLaxaQNe1iKPLY9q3YylA1wjkcoEmPie5M0dEXQJXIZAhyoMDuZdksFewxY4pZxtAPblo1I_vNN3RPvJceg_bDPXmRn2XORh/s1600/ThingTheyCarriedCover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdgc2Yhx7idzEmLenNmWkNGlrYd_ofCnFXRQSkIG87nVw4BLaxaQNe1iKPLY9q3YylA1wjkcoEmPie5M0dEXQJXIZAhyoMDuZdksFewxY4pZxtAPblo1I_vNN3RPvJceg_bDPXmRn2XORh/s200/ThingTheyCarriedCover.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
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This is a classic work of American Literature about a very controversial time: The Vietnam War. If I could trade talents with anyone, it would be Tim O'Brien. I would give my right arm to be able to manipulate words the way he does. He makes you taste the gun powder and feel the weight of the soldier's pack. This is a beautiful work of literature. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/84369.The_Last_Battle?from_search=true&search_version=service">7. The Last Battle</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Bsz6VR8dLuKvFjP-9bMGU5Jyhn70yFI0pEFl-gK1JBwGBUN3uwDdAEhbfieKqDw4XcNl9ME92TIy2Q5oqXoUoCZPJysFymhWu_85WBNX5ZuFWoLqRIc8-AgyTfldyMMZ2UualcKNvbas/s1600/TheLastBattle%25281stEd%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Bsz6VR8dLuKvFjP-9bMGU5Jyhn70yFI0pEFl-gK1JBwGBUN3uwDdAEhbfieKqDw4XcNl9ME92TIy2Q5oqXoUoCZPJysFymhWu_85WBNX5ZuFWoLqRIc8-AgyTfldyMMZ2UualcKNvbas/s200/TheLastBattle%25281stEd%2529.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
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So...maybe it specifically says on the cover that it is a story for children. But you are never too old for Narnia. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/480204.The_Phantom_of_the_Opera?from_search=true&search_version=service">8. The Phantom of the Opera</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR8o0_qjDi17TY3WqcBMDntrhcbEIPd0cpDH_3dvaBNnVjUuo8bsg19xcl-wt6NWmIKkH_LFfpbxBEhZmCzFtZrWw0MDkoHCdA8lzZQcFJZS5wTO_CGQ96MXt8oJczEAhYknibrAWlCMlR/s1600/phantom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR8o0_qjDi17TY3WqcBMDntrhcbEIPd0cpDH_3dvaBNnVjUuo8bsg19xcl-wt6NWmIKkH_LFfpbxBEhZmCzFtZrWw0MDkoHCdA8lzZQcFJZS5wTO_CGQ96MXt8oJczEAhYknibrAWlCMlR/s200/phantom.jpg" width="117" /></a></div>
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Love the musical, love the play and love the book. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33.The_Lord_of_the_Rings?from_search=true&search_version=service">9. The Lord of the Rings</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoc7A9U_es0pfeHQ9EdJn8Y3O1-FwpixtTssSv0MRrMaxhvrlkTVmgn6cF9FQVFbRtPGvB5L01Y8TnEuGtrLN0DxMsgmXY95l5Cw3ewbBbLxvZES-CEsvNsNOXLkIsamQ0CKU3sFAP_l2s/s1600/LOTR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoc7A9U_es0pfeHQ9EdJn8Y3O1-FwpixtTssSv0MRrMaxhvrlkTVmgn6cF9FQVFbRtPGvB5L01Y8TnEuGtrLN0DxMsgmXY95l5Cw3ewbBbLxvZES-CEsvNsNOXLkIsamQ0CKU3sFAP_l2s/s200/LOTR.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
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Yes, I know big shock! The nerdy librarian likes <i>Lord of the Rings</i>. But seriously, so much of my love for books came from the world Tolkein created. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17245.Dracula?from_search=true&search_version=service">10. Dracula</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglL4pNAf8bAlRH5zzB_4DOJQLDL15s5Yyv5xm65sE6Q-QrvK0ADuU12qYDMkxYS-DZOUposuRn_0Hmhj17_MeqWmMzjsEa0-NRDC86iSRrkT6P0NxorBgMrR0bWF2bfDsAlR_P4aeHn36S/s1600/Dracula.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglL4pNAf8bAlRH5zzB_4DOJQLDL15s5Yyv5xm65sE6Q-QrvK0ADuU12qYDMkxYS-DZOUposuRn_0Hmhj17_MeqWmMzjsEa0-NRDC86iSRrkT6P0NxorBgMrR0bWF2bfDsAlR_P4aeHn36S/s200/Dracula.png" width="130" /></a></div>
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I read <i>Dracula </i>every October. I argue it is one of the best horror books of all time. No movie adaptation that I have seen has ever come close to the book. </div>
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<i>Check brokeandbookish.com for more Top Ten lists!</i></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-68479873618922112252016-03-27T19:24:00.002-07:002016-03-27T19:24:50.578-07:00In the End<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18140842-in-the-end" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="In the End (In the After, #2)" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1381958392m/18140842.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18140842-in-the-end">In the End</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5267376.Demitria_Lunetta">Demitria Lunetta</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1583318706">3 of 5 stars</a><br />
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The sequel was equally entertaining as the first book. We follow Amy after her escape from New Hope. Amy is doing her best in The After when she discovers something that shakes her to her very core: Dr. Reynolds has Baby. <br />
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Amy then battles Floraes, criminals, crushes and of course, Dr. Reynolds, until Baby is safe. <br />
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It's a pretty entertaining, easy read. However, it is definitely run of the mill plot with cliche characters. It isn't the best book you'll ever read, but it would be fun for a road trip!
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/45909896-mallory">View all my reviews</a>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-18575585393215307372016-03-22T07:35:00.000-07:002016-03-22T13:14:43.440-07:00Top Ten Tuesday: Five Books I Really Love But Feel Like I Haven't Talked About Enough<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/248596.Something_Wicked_This_Way_Comes?from_search=true&search_version=service">1. Something Wicked This Way Comes</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdjKvOT-0qkMX-Qk1HfZ6ozXj5QWa5xWq4MU9rABzcsMSsqaAVGVotcytuIq3aF5QjbELLdcgfYDKKmxlOmzwV5UT4iZE6eBbyzLXdZf3KiyPHS0te6MVZ59mpk6HK2pP34dTcZYU3i_1R/s1600/something+wicked+this+way+comes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdjKvOT-0qkMX-Qk1HfZ6ozXj5QWa5xWq4MU9rABzcsMSsqaAVGVotcytuIq3aF5QjbELLdcgfYDKKmxlOmzwV5UT4iZE6eBbyzLXdZf3KiyPHS0te6MVZ59mpk6HK2pP34dTcZYU3i_1R/s200/something+wicked+this+way+comes.jpg" width="121" /></a></div>
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I read this book just about every October. It is truly one of my all time favorites. It has everything necessary for a good novel: beautiful prose, mystique, strong themes and an evil circus. If you have never read Ray Bradbury, read this book. If you have read Ray Bradbury, still read this book. If you have read all of his books including this one, read this book again. It is different from all of his other stories (although they are also wonderful). </div>
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Is it OK for your kids to read? Maybe not right before they go to bed... ;) </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3153910-the-art-of-racing-in-the-rain">2. The Art of Racing in the Rain</a></h3>
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Stein is a writer unlike any I have read before. He masters the dog "voice" just as London does in Call of the Wild, but Stein does it in a way that helps you understand the modern man and his relationship with his dog. But this book is also about so much more. It's about family, tragedy, loyalty, temptation... etc. There is some strong language but honestly, coming from Enzo (the dog) the profanity is pretty ironic and hilarious. I highly recommend this book, but not if you are easily offended by profanity. There is some sexual content but not graphic. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18143977-all-the-light-we-cannot-see?from_new_nav=true&ac=1&from_search=true">3. All the Light We Cannot See</a></h3>
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Okay, so I have already reviewed this book and I tell pretty much everyone I come in contact with about it, but I just always want to talk about it because it's awesome. How do you not fall in love with a story about a blind French girl and a genius German boy whose every decision and action lead up to but a few quick moments together? The two children battle questions of morality and the evils of Nazism. It is a great read. Though it is genuinely heart breaking. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21787.The_Princess_Bride?from_new_nav=true&ac=1&from_search=true">4. The Princess Bride</a></h3>
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We all know the movie is hilarious. But guess what, the book is even better! It is funny, adventurous and clever. It's also a quick read. Great for spring break or summer reading! </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8921.The_Hound_of_the_Baskervilles?from_new_nav=true&ac=1&from_search=true">5. The Hound of the Baskervilles</a></h3>
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If you say mystery is one of your favorite genres and you have never read anything by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, then you are wrong. He practically invented mystery. Everyone knows Sherlock Holmes has been done and redone in media, but this is the original. This is the real Sherlock, even better than...dare I say it... Benedict Cumberbatch. </div>
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<i>For more Top Ten Lists, visit brokeandbookish.com. </i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-62627849632621148362016-03-15T07:46:00.000-07:002016-03-15T08:59:38.623-07:00Top Ten Tuesday: Five Books On My Spring TBR<br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18090147-the-enchanted">1. The Enchanted</a></h2>
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By: Renee Denfield</h4>
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I am very excited to read this book. It has pretty good reviews and the premise sounds very enticing. Imagine the dark world of death row intertwined with fantasy and magic. Which is reality? </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4989.The_Red_Tent">2. The Red Tent</a></h2>
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By: Anita Diamant</h4>
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I absolutely loved her other book, <i>The Boston Girl</i>! I loved Diamant's writing style and hope <i>The Red Tent </i> is just as great. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25814512-everyone-brave-is-forgiven">3. Everyone Brave is Forgiven</a></h2>
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By: Chris Cleave</h4>
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So I have this thing with historical fiction and WWII. I love it. It is so tragic and difficult for me to fathom in terms of numbers of lives that were effected, but reading one person's story (even if it isn't real) helps me understand the depth of the war. I am really looking forward to this one.<br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23398763-everything-i-never-told-you">4. Everything I Never Told You</a></h2>
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By: Celeste Ng</h4>
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I have heard from quite a few reliable sources that this is a good book about what it means to be a family. It's about a Chinese American family living in Ohio in the 1970s who is dealing with a tragic death. This sounds like a tale that would open my eyes to new experiences. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22716447-why-not-me">5. Why not me? </a></h2>
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By: Mindy Kaling</h4>
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Mindy Kaling is hilarious. I love her in <i>The Office</i>. I love her in <i>Is Everyone Hanging out Without Me </i>and so I am sure I will love this book. However, if it is anything like her other book, it doesn't really follow any type of structure. It's just a book you pick up and read for a while when you need a laugh. </div>
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<i>For more Top Tuesday posts, visit <a href="http://www.brokeandbookish.com/">Broke and Bookish</a></i></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-88905773080176224302016-03-11T08:00:00.000-08:002016-03-11T08:00:04.198-08:00Station Eleven<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20170404-station-eleven" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="Station Eleven" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1451446835m/20170404.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20170404-station-eleven">Station Eleven</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2786093.Emily_St_John_Mandel">Emily St. John Mandel</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1421883486">4 of 5 stars</a><br />
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When I first saw this book, I thought, "Great. Another apocalypse novel." But, I am so glad I gave it a chance. Mandel's writing is both poetically beautiful and thrilling. It had all the elements of a thrilling world gone to ruins juxtaposed with modern society and art. Two things really set this book apart. <br />
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First, the writing style. Mandel has great character development which is impressive since the audience follows so many characters. In addition to the character development, Mandel writes like a 21st century Fitzgerald. Her style causes the reader to really think about what they just read. A good book should cause the reader to think. <br />
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Second, its uniqueness. This was not an apocalyptic novel about teenagers fighting zombies or brilliant but attractive scientists trying to beat the impending plague. It was about a group of actors who perform classical music and Shakespeare. This may sound weird, but it's actually very interesting. <br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/45909896-mallory">View all my reviews</a>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-84437242004721567722016-03-08T09:47:00.000-08:002016-03-08T10:28:27.726-08:00Top Ten Tuesday: Five Characters Everyone Loves But I Just Don't Get<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Check out <a href="http://www.brokeandbookish.com/p/top-ten-tuesday-other-features.html">Broke and Bookish</a> for more Top Ten Lists! </h3>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5759.Fight_Club?from_search=true&search_version=service">1. Tyler Durden</a></h3>
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<i>Fight Club </i>creeps me out. It made me feel uncomfortable in a way that I did not enjoy. I have had people tell me I didn't get it because I'm not a man. Sure, I can see why maybe Tyler Durden appeals to men more than women, but I'm concerned about the men who connect with Tyler Durden. Maybe you guys didn't read the book, but he is crazy. </div>
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Freud would say we are all Tyler Durden, we just don't give into our unconscious mind. Sure, I have had desires that go against my every day norm, but I never have murderous- cult creating desires. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13335037-divergent?from_search=true&search_version=service">
2. Triss </a></h3>
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<i>Divergent </i>filled the void left in readers' hearts by <i>The Hunger Games. </i>But Triss is no Katniss Everdeen. Katniss was special because everything she did, she did for those she loved. Triss is special because she was born different. I don't feel the chemistry between her and Four and she cries a lot.<br />
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There is nothing truly terrible about Triss. I just didn't feel a connection with her. I don't get the hype. She lacks in comparison to other heroines. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10507293-the-selection?from_search=true&search_version=service">3. America </a></h3>
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First, I must be honest. I did not like this series. There are a myriad of reasons why I didn't like it, but one big one was America. Her character is completely unrealistic. Why would the prince like her? Her personality drove me crazy. She is hot headed, falls in love easily and didn't want to be a part of The Selection in the first place. She is only there for the money. </div>
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She has a few redeeming moments, she makes a political stand, comes clean about her secret love and cares for her family. However, she regrets every political stand she takes, lies to the prince for most of their relationship and lies to her family. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2767052-the-hunger-games?from_search=true&search_version=service">4. Gale</a></h3>
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I love <i>The Hunger Games. </i>I was one of those weird people who bought a Mockingjay pin and read the books multiple times. At first, I loved Gale. He was the masculine figure who didn't know how to show his feelings. But throughout the series, he became increasingly more whiny and less endearing.<br />
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What really killed me was how petty he became. He was jealous of Peeta so he took dangerous measures with Katniss. And, of course, he fought like a coward without ethics. In the end, it was his plan that killed those children. There is no coming back from that.<br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1885.Pride_and_Prejudice?from_search=true&search_version=service">5. Elizabeth Bennett</a></h3>
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I love classics. I love the way writing used to be so eloquent and I wish I could emulate that style. However, <i>Pride and Prejudice </i>was boring. Elizabeth Bennett was prejudiced and Darcy was proud. Clever title, boring book, boring characters. I remember at one point in the book exclaiming out loud, "If one more person proposes...I'm throwing this book." </div>
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The banter between Elizabeth and Darcy is cute at best but frustrating to a girl who was hoping for stronger themes such as the true value of womanhood and humility. But instead, I listed to Elizabeth's stubborn remarks and jokes about manners. No thank you, Elizabeth Bennett. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-5808171132242478192016-03-08T09:41:00.000-08:002016-03-09T06:59:32.626-08:00Top Ten Tuesday: Five Characters I LOVE But Others Seem To Dislike<h2 style="height: 0px;">
Check out Broke and Bookish for more Top Ten Lists!</h2>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33.The_Lord_of_the_Rings?ac=1&from_search=1&from_nav=true">1. Boromir</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ew-pPyMEFyDWhtCj-kpt9vKZqQ7T7Un6oDJf53ScT1sbQ0pNXPbt67fofC9J50mGquA9jGixU4KA9x3xsfaKKa2vuLMvnY-jS6T25LD6cjdhAR5pbuEr0WIrD_BtDvFgVLDJuRz3W0MH/s1600/LOTR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ew-pPyMEFyDWhtCj-kpt9vKZqQ7T7Un6oDJf53ScT1sbQ0pNXPbt67fofC9J50mGquA9jGixU4KA9x3xsfaKKa2vuLMvnY-jS6T25LD6cjdhAR5pbuEr0WIrD_BtDvFgVLDJuRz3W0MH/s200/LOTR.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
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Boromir was a valiant warrior of Gondor. He was known for his bravery and strength. Beloved by all, including his younger brother, Faramir. As the eldest son of the Steward of Gondor, he was selected to go to the Council of Elrond. Now where people tend to be turned off by Boromir, is how easily he succumbs to the temptations of the ring. But I would argue that he does not "succumb" to the ring but rather longs for something, anything to help save his people. </div>
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He was not tempted by the ring, but tempted by the opportunity to provide safety and security to Gondor. Yes, he tries to take it from Frodo and for but a moment, maybe he intended to cause Frodo harm. But he was unsuccessful and in seeing his faults, he was stricken with guilt and grief. So much so, that he sacrificed himself to save Merry and Pippin. Boromir only ever had good intentions and I must argue that his intentions justify his actions. Had he really known the evil of the ring, he would not have played with its fire. </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24280.Les_Mis_rables?ac=1&from_search=1&from_nav=true">2. Javert</a></h3>
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Javert is probably the embodiment of anti-hero. He is diligent and obsessed in his profession which is his main flaw. This obsession blinds his heart so that he cannot have compassion. To him, one cannot break the law and be a good person. No means justifies the ends. He looks at the consequences of the action rather than the intent. But this is an honorable characteristic for an officer of the law. Even good people do bad things sometimes, but a precedent for all people must be set. </div>
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When his eyes are open to the possibility of a good criminal, he is so shaken that he is driven to suicide. All he knew and believed had been tossed in the dirt. Javert is harsh but as the reader, I pity him. His devotion to the law has driven him to madness and cruelty. Val Jean and Javert pray to the same God, but who is the more righteous? </div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/99107.Winnie_the_Pooh?from_search=true&search_version=service">3. Rabbit</a></h3>
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Everyone loves Tigger, Winnie the Pooh, Eeyore and Piglet. But how many people say that Rabbit is their favorite? Rabbit gets a bad rap because he is a little OCD, controlling and doesn't always want to engage in the fun. But those descriptors also describe me perfectly. I like things a very specific way and I would rather stay home and read than partake in social gatherings. </div>
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These aren't necessarily bad traits. It's good to have a mature person in the group who will take charge in the face of fear. It is good to have someone level headed who loves the goofiness of the others but can gently lead them in the right direction when necessary. </div>
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Rabbit may not be the most funny or endearing character, but he just might steal your heart if you let him.<br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12296.The_Scarlet_Letter?from_search=true&search_version=service">4. Hester Prynne</a></h3>
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<i>Scarlet Letter </i> is not exactly a page turning thriller or a passionate romance. It is a story about sin, coping with sin and the penalty of ostracism. I have heard the argument that Hester is a bland character because she doesn't stand up for herself or her child. But I think she is simply doing the best she can with the circumstances laid before her. </div>
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She is not exactly my favorite but I believe she is one of the most important feminine characters in literature up to that time. The issues she dealt with are ones women continue to deal with. When a teenage girl gets pregnant and she has to deal with whispers and jokes in the hallway. She carries herself with grace and that is something admirable.</div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/41865.Twilight?from_search=true&search_version=service">5. Bella Swan</a></h3>
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When <i>Twilight</i> first came out, it was a big deal. People seriously liked this book. In fact, I liked this book. But now, saying you like <i>Twilight</i> is condemn-able. </div>
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That being said, I like Bella. I think she is a realistic character in a completely unrealistic book. She is flawed. She is clumsy, awkward and only moderately pretty. For a girl who is all of those things, I really related to her. Sure, she was kind of annoying...what girl isn't? I'm just saying, let's not throw our hate on Bella when we really just kind of hate ourselves for being so into a vampire novel. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-36590863660717305792016-03-03T09:06:00.000-08:002016-03-03T09:06:01.530-08:00The Girl on the Train<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22557272-the-girl-on-the-train" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="The Girl on the Train" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1421709869m/22557272.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22557272-the-girl-on-the-train">The Girl on the Train</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1063732.Paula_Hawkins">Paula Hawkins</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1567868095">3 of 5 stars</a><br />
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Have you ever questioned everything you knew? That is the premise for The Girl on the Train. I picked this book up after reading Gone Girl, still longing for suspense and thrill. It did not disappoint. Granted there was some language and dark themes that I didn't love. Our protagonist is not the average heroine. She is a drunk, she is lonely, she is depressed and she is desperate. It is all of these flaws that make her the perfect hero for this story.<br />
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Hawkins made me question my hasty judgments and shed light on a world I had never known: alcoholism. <br />
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The twist at the end of this book was strategic and subtle. You always suspect, but never know for sure. <br />
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If you are looking for an intense novel that will take you for a ride, check it out. If you are looking for an uplifting literary read, this is not for you.
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/45909896-mallory">View all my reviews</a>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-56264461451522994522016-03-01T13:50:00.002-08:002016-03-01T13:50:55.521-08:00In the After<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12157407-in-the-after" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="In the After (In the After, #1)" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1351415769m/12157407.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12157407-in-the-after">In the After</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5267376.Demitria_Lunetta">Demitria Lunetta</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1392838675">3 of 5 stars</a><br />
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In the After is your stereotypical alien/zombie invasion story. As per the norm in YA novels, a young and endearing teenager, Amy, is one of the few humans to have been spared by the aliens. What sets this story apart from the rest are two things: the silence and Baby. <br />
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The aliens can hear everything, even the most quiet footstep or a gasp of breath. Because of this, our protagonist lives a life of utter silence. Within the safety of her home, she allows for some electronic noise from appliances but other than that, nothing. This is an interesting characteristic because it forced Lunetta to write in a very unique style tat heightens the reader's senses. <br />
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Amy finds Baby in the street and chooses to risk her life for her. Their bond becomes inseparable as they forge a relationship first based on survival and then on love. <br />
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The big plot twist to this book is extremely predictable. I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking to fill an apocalyptic void.
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/45909896-mallory">View all my reviews</a>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-72068556728455003352016-02-22T09:33:00.002-08:002016-02-22T09:33:50.620-08:00The Invention of Wings<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18079776-the-invention-of-wings" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="The Invention of Wings" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1386699861m/18079776.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18079776-the-invention-of-wings">The Invention of Wings</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4711.Sue_Monk_Kidd">Sue Monk Kidd</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1409128550">5 of 5 stars</a><br />
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Stories about slavery in America never fail to shock me. I've read numerous true accounts of the brutality that was the life of an African American slave. But this story not only made my stomach turn but it also brought hope to my heart. In all the ugliness, two women are brought together. This isn't a story about best friends who stick together through thick and thin, but rather a tale about two women whose lives are intertwined in the most uncomfortable way: the slave and the mistress. Kidd has a beautiful way with words that made me not want to put the book down. Kidd not only attacked the evils of slavery and racism but also sexism and sometimes Christianity.<br />
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One of my favorite aspects of the book is the complicated relationship between Sarah and Handful. For a majority of the book, the two aren't even in the same region but a promise and a lost friendship binds them together in every step they take. <br />
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I would suggest this book to anyone who likes historical fiction and doesn't always expect a happy ending.
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/45909896-mallory">View all my reviews</a>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-12116629418263410102016-02-16T09:54:00.002-08:002016-02-17T10:31:09.194-08:00The 5th Wave<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16101128-the-5th-wave" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="The 5th Wave (The 5th Wave, #1)" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1359853842m/16101128.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16101128-the-5th-wave">The 5th Wave</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3377941.Rick_Yancey">Rick Yancey</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1392866283">4 of 5 stars</a><br />
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The 5th Wave was a blast. I have been over apocalypse novels for a while now, but I couldn't help but like this book. Cassie was realistic, Sam was adorable and Evan Walker was irresistibly charming. One of my favorite elements was the mystery behind "The Others." I would put <i>The Fifth Wave</i> on par with the <i>Divergent</i> series. It is in no way a life-changing novel. If you are looking for something beautifully written that touches your soul, this is not your book. However, if you are looking for an easy read to just veg out to, I highly recommend this book. If you are looking for a present for your 14 year old niece, she would like this book.<br />
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p.s. If you liked this book, don't go see the movie. It was awful. They changed the characters, the acting was bad and the writing was equally terrible.
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/45909896-mallory">View all my reviews</a>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5289796501963366666.post-54263984186594452302016-02-04T07:25:00.000-08:002016-02-04T07:25:39.519-08:00Redeeming Love<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11422.Redeeming_Love" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="Redeeming Love" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1388198504m/11422.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11422.Redeeming_Love">Redeeming Love</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6492.Francine_Rivers">Francine Rivers</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1523901350">3 of 5 stars</a><br />
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I don't like love stories. I hate chick-flicks, romance novels and the like. However, this book hooked me. The writing was engaging and the characters were easy to connect with. I loved the book until I got about half way through and it just kept repeating itself. At this point in the book, it started to move slowly and the same characters began taking the same actions. Angel put up shields and ran away, Miram loved everyone and got her feelings hurt, Michael forgave Angel and stood by her side, Paul was a jerk...etc. I did appreciate that Rivers showed how sex can be used as a tool for abuse, violence and dehumanization while contrasting that with sex as a means for creation and forming a special bond between a husband and a wife. Sex is more than a physical act, it is emotional and spiritual as well. I think the book could have improved by being half as long. Why say something in 400 pages when 200 will do?
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/45909896-mallory">View all my reviews</a>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08160893123018128188noreply@blogger.com0