Trickster and Ghostopolis - A Graphic Novel Twosome

Trickster - Native American Tales: A Graphic Collection edited by Matt Dembicki

Completion Date: April 25, 2011

Reason for Reading: Fun!

This extraordinary graphic novel depicts traditional Native American trickster tales with inspired artists and native writers.

This is a collection of stories told in graphic novel format. Like most short story collections, there were some really good stories and others that I didn't enjoy quite as much. Most of the stories revolve around the idea of a Trickster, but there are other characters that make an appearance. They are mostly Native traditions, so some of the stories you will recognize as retellings, but others are entirely new. The emotion behind the stories are all over the place, too. Some are playful, but others are dark in nature. Some of the stories will remind you of Aesop's fables by their morals at the end of them.

This collection was a lot of fun and I am glad I read it. It is worth reading if you get a chance.

This book counts for the Once Upon a Time Challenge.

Ghostopolis by Doug TenNapel

Completion Date: April 26, 2011

Reason for Reading: Fun!

Imagine Garth Hale's surprise when he's accidentally zapped to the spirit world by Frank Gallows, a washed-out ghost wrangler. Suddenly Garth finds he has powers the ghosts don't have, and he's stuck in a world run by the evil ruler of Ghostopolis, who would use Garth's newfound abilities to rule the ghostly kingdom. When Garth meets Cecil, his grandfather's ghost, the two search for a way to get Garth back home, and nearly lose hope until Frank Gallows shows up to fix his mistake.

This graphic novel was a lot of fun. I don't read a lot of books set in the afterlife, but it leads to interesting settings and stories. The artwork is done really well, too. In the real world, Garth is battling with a terrible reality that he has a life-threatening disease. This is something that his mother refuses to face, so she continues to find another answer. Then, Garth is accidentally transported into the Afterlife by Frank Gallows and everything changes. Garth discovers that he has powers in this world and his whole attitude begins to change. He is taken around the world by the ghost of his grandfather, which opens up even more in the healing path. Overall, it was a pretty good read and well worth your time if you haven't read it yet.

This counts for the Once Upon a Time Challenge.

Serenity by Joss Whedon Times Two - Take Two

Serenity Volume 2: Better Days by Joss Whedon, Brett Matthews, & Will Conrad

Completion Date: April 23, 2011

Reason for Reading: Carry on with the Series.

Serenity: Better Days follows everyone's favorite space cowboys in a thrilling, action-packed adventure, where Mal and his crew take on a heist that promises a big payoff. But when one of Serenity's crew is taken captive and tortured, the gang must put their enduring differences aside and work together to save one of their own, even if it means losing the cash prize of a lifetime!

Joss Whedon returns to the world of his blockbuster film Serenity, reuniting with Brett Matthews and Will Conrad, his collaborators on the bestselling 2005 series Those Left Behind.

I love the television show Firefly and the movie Serenity, so I was very excited to have the chance to read on in the series. My biggest complaint is that it is in book form and not on the screen. I really think there was a lot of potential for this series, so I am forever disappointed that it was cancelled. The artwork is really good, but it is just not the same. My favourite part is that Adam Baldwin, Jayne, writes the introduction. It was entertaining. The comic obviously takes place before the movie and shows that they can actually successfully complete a mission. It was fun to revisit with the characters again.

Serenity Volume 3: The Shepherd's Tale by Joss Whedon, Zack Whedon, and Chris Samnee

Completion Date: April 23, 2011

Reason for Reading: Carry on with the Series.

One of Serenity's greatest mysteries is finally revealed in The Shepherd's Tale, filling in the life of one of the show's most beloved characters - Shepherd Book!
Who was Book before meeting Mal and the rest of the Serenity crew, how did he become one of their most trusted allies, and how did he find God in a bowl of soup? Answers to these and more questions about Book's past are uncovered in this original hardcover graphic novel by rising stars Zack Whedon (Dr. Horrible, Terminator, Fringe) and Chris Samnee (Blackest Night: Tales of the Corps, Daredevil). A pivotal chapter in the ongoing Serenity saga, The Shepherd's Tale is also a rollicking, action-packed epic in its own right.

Okay, I am disappointed. I was really excited to read this because Book was one of my favourite characters in this series. I just wish that this could have been addressed in the show. It was the big secret hanging over the show. We deserved to know what happened. They could have even worked it into the movie. I liked the story well enough. The artwork was different than the previous books, though, and the characters didn't always look right. I won't say much else because if you are planning to read this comic, you don't want it to be ruined for you.

Series:

Those Left Behind

Better Days

Float Out

The Shepherd's Tale

Comic Book Extravaganza - Take Three

L. Frank Baum's The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by Eric Shanower & Skottie Young

Completion Date: April 12, 2011

Reason for Reading: Fun!

The premiere American fantasy adventure gets the Merry Marvel treatment! Eisner Award-winning writer/artist Eric Shanower (Age of Bronze) teams up with fan-favorite artist Skottie Young (New X-Men) to bring L. Frank Baum's beloved classic to life! When Kansas farm girl Dorothy flies away to the magical Land of Oz, she fatally flattens a Wicked Witch, liberates a living Scarecrow and is hailed by the Munchkin people as a great sorceress...but all she really wants to know is: how does she get home?

I really wanted to love this book, but it disappointed me. I think it is mainly because I just watched Tin Man, which was amazing, so this was sort of disappointing in comparison. I knew it was really just the same story with pictures, but I think I wanted more. Others would probably like this book, but it just wasn't for me.

This book works for the Once Upon a Time Challenge.

Ursula by Fabio Moon & Gabriel Ba

Completion Date: April 23, 2011

Reason for Reading: Fun!

Once upon a time, there was a story. A love story. Different listeners will hear different things from the love story; for some, it might be a tale of journeys and rites of passage and battles won and foes vanquished and happily-ever-after. For other listeners, it might be a story about dreams and desires, for all is simple, beautiful and magical when you're young and in love. But once upon a time.... there was a story, and listen to me now: it was a love story.

This was a cute little story. It was simplistic, but fun. The blurb above is right, though. It is easy for people to get something different from this story. I think it depends on what you are reading it for, what you will get out of it. It also depends on how you look it. It could be a fantasy novel, but it also could just be a story about dreams.

This book counts for the Once Upon a Time challenge.

Chobits Volume 7 by Clamp

Completion Date: April 23, 2011

Reason for Reading: Carry on with the Series.

The continuing adventures of Hideki and Chi.

Can a computer ever replace a human being? Kokubunji built Yuzuki to replace his sister after her passing. While Yuzuki certainly feels like a sister to Minoru, the more time he spends with her, the more he loves her for who she is. Chi was also built as a bubstitute family member. Back then she was knwn as Elda, and she and her "sister" Freya were built to be the daughters of their creator and his wife. They behaved and looked like real children, and they even had the ability to love. But something went wrong -very wrong-. now Chi must find her "someone just for her" before an even worse disaster strikes.

Another fun volume in this manga series. I am not sure what I am going to do now because there is only one volume left and the library doesn't have it. I have read 7 books, so obviously I need to read the last book. A lot of answers are revealed in this book. It was interesting to find out how the story progressed. Some of it I sort of expected, but there were a few surprises.

Series:

Volume 1

Volume 2

Volume 3

Volume 4
Volume 5

Volume 6

Volume 7

Volume 8

This book counts for the Manga Challenge.

2011 Reading Challenges - An Update

I decided to get organized on my reading challenges. Some I am doing well with, but others need a bit of work. Anyway, after spending all that time updating things, I figured I should post about it.

The Great Reading Swap of 2011:

To see the entire list, click here.

The Man in the Picture by Susan Hill

North & South by Elizabeth Gaskell

Tender Morsels by Margo Lanagan

Witness in Death by J.D. Robb

Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillier

Progress: 5/26 - Pathetic!

Once Upon a Time V:

To see the entire list, click here:

Quest the First:

Novels:
1. The Obsidian Dagger: Being the Further Extraordinary Adventures of Horatio Lyle by Catherine Webb (Book 2)
2. The Worlds of Chrestomanci: Charmed Life by Diana Wynne Jones (Book 1)
3. Sisters Red by Jackson Pearce
4. The Shadow Hunt by Katherine Langrish
5. A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness
6. The Peach Keeper by Sarah Addison Allen
7. Enchanted Glass by Diana Wynne Jones

Graphic Novels:

1. L. Frank Baum's The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by Eric Shanower & Skottie Young
2. Fables Volume 15: Rose Red by Bill Willingham & Company
3. Ursula by Fabio Moon & Gabriel Ba
4. Trickster - Native American Tales: A Graphic Collection edited by Matt Dembicki
5. Ghostopolis by Doug TenNapel

Progress: 12/5 - COMPLETED!

Quest on Screen:

I have watched the following:
1. Inception (Watched March 21, 2011)
2. Sin City (Watched April 2, 2011)
3. Tim Man (Watched April 5, 2011)
4. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (Watched April 9, 2011)
5. The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (Watched April 11, 2011)
6. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (Watched April 11, 2011)

Progress: No set number to watch.

Quest the Fourth:

Progress: 0/2 - Pathetic!

Short Story Quest:

I have read the following:

1. terribly twisted tales edited by Jean Rabe & Martin H. Greenberg
2. Dreams Underfoot by Charles de Lint
3.

Progress: 2/3

Manga Challenge 2011

To see the entire list, click here:

My list:

1. Nightschool: The Weirn Books - Volume 1 by Svetlana Chmakova
2. Chobits Volume 5 by Clamp
3. Scott Pilgrim vs. The World (Volume 2) by Bryan Lee O'Malley
4. Chobits Volume 6 by Clamp
5. One Piece Volume 4 - The Black Cat Pirates by Eiichiro Oda
6. Chobits Volume 7 by Clamp

Progress: 6/6 - COMPLETED!

2011 Aussie Author Challenge

To see the entire list, click here:

1. Tender Morsels by Margo Lanagan

2.

3.

Progress: 1/3 - Pathetic!

Historical Fiction Challenge 2011

To see the entire list, click here:

1. The Sherlockian by Graham Moore

2. A Lesson in Secrets by Jacqueline Winspear

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Progress: 2/10 - Pathetic!

Essay Reading Challenge

To see the entire list, click here:

1. That's the Way we Roll by Neil Peart
2. Every Road Has Its Toll by Neil Peart
3. Shunpikin' it Old Skool by Neil Peart
4. Haste Ye Back by Neil Peart
5. The Hour of Arriving by Neil Peart
6. The Best February Ever by Neil Peart
7. South by Southwest by Neil Peart
8. When the Road Ends by Neil Peart
9. Independence Day by Neil Peart
10. The Drums of October by Neil Peart

Bonus:

11. December in Death Valley by Neil Peart
12. A Winter's Tale of Summers Past by Neil Peart
13. The Quest for the Phantom Tower by Neil Peart
14. Under the Marine Layer by Neil Peart
15. A Little Yellow Cabin on Yellowstone Lake by Neil Peart
16. The Ballad of Larry and Suzy by Neil Peart
17. Autumn Serenade by Neil Peart
18. Fire on Ice by Neil Peart
19. Time Machines by Neil Peart
20. Theme and Variations by Neil Peart
21. Cruel Summer by Neil Peart
22. The Power of Magical Thinking by Neil Peart

Progress: 22/10 - COMPLETED!

Ireland Reading Challenge - 2011

To see the entire list, click here:

1.

2.

Progress: 0/2 - Pathetic!

The TwentyEleven Challenge

To see the entire list, click here:

Progress: 13/22 - Pathetic!

Far and Away: A Prize Every Time by Neil Peart

Far and Away: A Prize Every Time by Neil Peart

Completion Date: April 23, 2011

Reason for Reading: I loved his previous books.

Following in the tradition of Ghost Rider and Traveling Music, Rush drummer Neil Peart lets us ride with him along the backroads of North America, Europe, and South America, sharing his experiences in personal reflections and full-color photos. Spanning almost four years, these twenty-two stories are open letters that recount adventures both personal and universal—from the challenges and accomplishments in the professional life of an artist to the birth of a child. These popular stories, originally posted on Neil’s website, are now collected and contextualized with a new introduction and conclusion in this beautifully designed collector’s volume.

Fans will discover a more intimate side to Neil’s very private personal life, and will enjoy his observations of natural phenomena. At one point, he anxiously describes the birth of two hummingbirds in his backyard; at the same time, his wife is preparing for the birth of their daughter — a striking synchronicity tenderly related to readers.

A love of drumming, nature, art, and the open road threads through the narrative, as Neil explores new horizons, both physical and spiritual. This is the personal, introspective travelogue of rock’s foremost drummer, enthusiastic biker, and sensitive husband and father. Far and Away is a book to be enjoyed again and again, like letters from a distant friend.

I loved this book! On Saturday, I hid myself away and read this book. I didn't know it was coming out until I accidentally stumbled across it, but I was very excited. A few years ago I didn't even really know who Rush was. Yes, I had heard of them and I suppose I did know a couple of their songs, but I didn't pay a lot of attention to them. Them, I met the cc and he decided to play a Rush CD on a road trip a few summers back. Even then I didn't really listen, but the CD was still in my car the next time I went somewhere and I found myself paying attention. I have come to discover that they may not be a band you love from the very first moment, but if you actually stop and listen you will fall in love. At least, that is what happened with me.

Once he found out that he had recruited me, the cc decided to tell me that the drummer, Neil Peart, was an author. Actually, not only is he an author, but he reads a lot. And, he is the lyricist for Rush. I was intrigued. I went out and bought a copy of Ghost Rider by him and I loved it. It was well-written, enlightening, and a very brave piece of non-fiction. It still remains my favourite Peart book; but I enjoy his other books almost as much. Even though my review of his books have been glowing, I don't think I have managed to convince anyone that they have to read him now. So, maybe it won't work this time either, but I still think you should.

This book is actually a collection of essays. He originally posted them on his website, but decided to release them as a book after he had collected several. Like every other book I have read by him, I have found myself talking about this book a lot. It could be because even though the cc is not a big reader, he does really like this band and enjoys listening to me ramble on about the things that I learned from the book. There is also this incessant noise from someone who thinks someone else should read this book. The noise is currently ahead, but hasn't actually won yet. It is not that the cc doesn't like to read; it is just that he doesn't make time for it.

In this collection, there is a little bit of everything. For some parts of it, he is on tour with Rush, so you gain some insight into that experience. In other parts of it, he talks about his personal life and his own private experiences. There is even a story that combines the birth of a hummingbird with the birth of a child. I was very curious about that story and I think it was done really well. It is more than just about Peart, though. This book looks at the world. He has his opinions, which he expresses, but he will also make you laugh. And, like his previous books it is a bit of a travel memoir. Every time I read a book by him I want to buy a motorcycle and travel around. It sounds like a very worthwhile experience.

Once again Neil has written a book that I loved and enjoyed reading. It is also a very pretty book, I must say. It is more a coffee table book size and includes lots of pictures. I was incredibly happy when I saw the book for the first time. It was well worth buying in hardcover!

This book counts for the Essay Reading Challenge. I signed up to read 10 essays and this book has 22, so I surpassed my goal.

If anyone is interested, here are my reviews of other Peart books:

Ghost Rider

Roadshow

I never reviewed Traveling Music and I still have Masked Rider to read. I am saving it, I guess.

Short Story Monday - The Very Best of Charles de Lint Part 3

At turns whimsical, dark, and mystical, this extraordinary collection of retold fairy tales and new, modern myths redefine the boundaries of magic. Compiling favored stories suggested by the author and his fans, this delightful treasury contains the most esteemed and beloved selections that de Lint has to offer. Innovative characters in unexpected places are the key to each plot: playful Crow Girls who sneak into the homes of their sleeping neighbors; a graffiti artist who risks everything to expose a long-standing conspiracy; a half-human girl who must choose between her village and her strange birthright; and an unrepentant trickster who throws one last party to reveal a folkloric tradition. Showcasing some of the finest offerings within the realms of urban fantasy and magical realism, this essential compendium of timeless tales will charm and inspire.

Today is Part 3 of the discussion of The Very Best of Charles de Lint with Carl from Stainless Steel Droppings. I am a bit late in the day with it, but at least it is up. Those that pay attention know that my books are technically in storage because of space restraints. Well, we finally found a place for a big bookcase and I have been rearranging. I am so excited! There will probably be pictures tomorrow. Now, on to the questions.

Stories Read This Week:

'The Stone Drum'

'Timeskip'

'Freewheeling'

All three of these stories were from Dreams Underfoot, which I recently read and reviewed with Meghan from Medieval Bookworm. You can read our review of the whole collection here.

1. What did you think of the mythical creatures included in 'The Stone Drum'?

When I read this story earlier this year, I was really excited because it was a Jilly Coppercorn story. She is my favourite Newford character. One thing you know about Jilly is that she is a pretty easy-going person, but as you learn from stories like this she wasn't always like that. This story is one of the launching points for her seeing the world in an entirely different way. It also includes Meran, who is becoming another one of my favourite Newford characters. Anyway, I always think that the creatures, for lack of a better word, that de Lint includes in his books and stories are well-written. This story was no exception. There is a whole underground city and these beings live down there away from prying eyes. It would be close-minded to think that there is not unknown beings in relatively unexplored or visited parts of the world, so this story just played off that idea.

2. 'Timeskip' was about time travel. Did you find the story believable?

I really enjoyed this story, too. A sequel, of sorts, is included in Dreams Underfoot, so I was happy to see how things play out after the events in this one. I have always enjoyed time travel in books, so this was no exception. I actually hate to say too much about this story because I don't want to ruin it for anyone. I just found I enjoyed it not knowing what to expect, so I am going to be brief and just say that I found the story believable. You should read it!

3. Could you picture the images mentioned in the story 'Freewheeling'?

Another enjoyable story, but not without its hardships. This is the story of a young man that believes he has the power to set bicycles free. The imagery in the opening of the story has always got to me. I can close my eyes and picture the bicycles fleeing. It is a nice imagery. Mind you, I wouldn't want my bicycle to escape, but it is interesting to think of what we consider inanimate objects wishing for their freedom.

Previous Weeks:

Part 1

Part 2

Week in Review (16)

Random Thoughts

I am starting to think that April was not meant to be a good reading month. I did manage to read a couple things, but nothing major. I am hoping that May will be better. I just find myself busier than I plan to be, so then I don't get a chance to read. There are just so many books that I want to read, so it is a bit sad that I can't get to them. I am so excited when they actually arrive, but then I am too busy to actually read them. And, I am still reading books from March. I keep saying I am going to finish them, but then never get to them. Such is life... I am also really late writing this post up.

Challenge News

I didn't really read anything for challenges, but that's okay. I am starting to think that I might just drop out of them. We will see what happens in May. I did read the next Chobits, so it works for the Manga Challenge.

Weekly Reads

86. The Peach Keeper by Sarah Addison Allen (Completed April 21, 2011)
87. Far and Away: A Prize Every Time by Neil Peart (Completed April 23, 2011)
88. Ursula by Fabio Moon & Gabriel Ba (Completed April 23, 2011)
89. Chobits Volume 7 by Clamp (Completed April 23, 2011)
90. Serenity Volume 2: Better Days by Joss Whedon, Brett Matthews, & Will Conrad (Completed April 23, 2011)
91. Serenity Volume 3: The Shepherd's Tale by Joss Whedon, Zack Whedon, & Chris Samnee (Completed April 23, 2011)

Weekly Posts

Week in Review (15)

Short Story Monday - The Very Best of Charles de Lint Part 2

Buddy Review: Dreams Underfoot by Charles de Lint

Comic Book Extravaganza - Take Two

Review: Collected Essex County by Jeff Lemire

Review: The Obsidian Dagger: Being the Further Extraordinary Adventures of Horatio Lyle by Catherine Webb

Review: By the Time You Read This, I'll be Dead by Julie Anne Peters

New Additions

Bought:

The Very Best of Charles de Lint (Had it from the library, but read it slow, so easier to just buy.)

Far and Away: A Prize Every Time by Neil Peart

Borrowed:

Nothing this week...

Loaded:

Nothing this week...

Received:

Nothing this week...

By the Time You Read This, I'll be Dead by Julie Anne Peters

By the Time You Read This, I'll be Dead by Julie Anne Peters

Completion Date: March 30, 2011

Reason for Reading: Trying to read all of her books. (For 'fun' just sounds wrong...)

Daelyn Rice is broken beyond repair, and after a string of botched suicide attempts, she’s determined to get her death right. She starts visiting a website for “completers”— www.through-the-light .com.

While she’s on the site, Daelyn blogs about her life, uncovering a history of bullying that goes back to kindergarten. When she’s not on the Web, Daelyn’s at her private school, where she’s known as the freak who doesn’t talk.

Then, a boy named Santana begins to sit with her after school while she’s waiting to for her parents to pick her up. Even though she’s made it clear that she wants to be left alone, Santana won’t give up. And it’s too late for Daelyn to be letting people into her life…isn’t it?

National Book Award finalist Julie Anne Peters shines a light on how bullying can push young people to the very edge.

Julie Anne Peters is an author that I have slowly been working my way through since reading her for the first time a couple years ago. Her books all deal with serious subject matters, so I always have to be in the right mood when I read her. I always try to have something out by her for when the mood strikes. I have read several of her books at this point, but a quick search of my blog shows that I have never reviewed any of them. That doesn't really surprise me, but at the same time I thought I would have at least reviewed one of them.

Over the years I have read Luna, which is about a young man and his sister who tells his story. He is feeling trapped in a body that was not meant for him. I think if I had to pick a favourite by her so far it would be this one. It's too bad I never reviewed it. Then, there is Keeing You a Secret which is about a young girl who thought she had everything in her life figured out... until a new student transfers to her school and wants to start a lesbigay club. Between Mom and Jo was my first read by Peters. In a way, it is a bit different from the other books that I have read by her. It was really good, though. Obviously I liked it enough to keep reading books by her. I think the only other book I have read by her is Rage. This is about abuse. Another good read. I haven't not liked any of her books yet and think that many teens out there should be checking out her work.

Moving on to the book I actually just read, this is about bullying which is a topic that has been explored extensive in the news lately. When you are bullied, it can lead to a troubling end with many teens and young adults committing suicide. When I was a kid I constantly heard that saying that 'Sticks and Stones may break your bones, but words will never hurt you.' I was having a conversation the other day and I actually think that words stick with you more than the broken bones. It depends on the situation, of course. Not everything has the same effect on people.

I think Peters did a very good job capturing what it was like to be a young woman going through this. Daelyn has attempted to commit suicide before, but has yet to be successful. This time she is determined and is planning everything out to the last detail. As she moves closer and closer to the date she is going to die, we learn more and more about what she has gone through. Her parents believe they are doing the best they can, but at the same time you can tell they know they failed her some how. Daelyn just feels inferior to everyone. She is in a lot of pain, and considering some of the things that happened to her, you can well imagine she would be. Peters gets inside Daelyn's head really well. I was very impressed and once again think that she wrote a compelling, yet heartbreaking, story about what it is like to be a teen in the world today.

If you haven't read Peters, you really should give her a try. Another excellent novel. I also have always been drawn to this particular cover.

The Obsidian Dagger: Being the Further Extraordinary Adventures of Horatio Lyle by Catherine Webb

The Obsidian Dagger: Being the Further Extraordinary Adventures of Horatio Lyle by Catherine Webb

Completion Date: March 23, 2011

Reason for Reading: Carry on with the Series.

There seems to be some odd things going on in the city of London lately. Take the murders, for instance; quite peculiar. And those missing statues. What's going on there? And shouldn't St. Paul’s Church have a roof? Odd. Horatio Lyle, of course, is no stranger to . . . well, strangeness. In fact, he finds the lure of the unknown quite invigorating. But having just survived the most frightening episode in his life, the last thing he wants is that pompous Lord Lincoln sticking his nose in again and demanding that he take on another case the police are too thick to solve. Of course, His Lordship can be painfully persuasive at times, so it should come as no surprise that Lyle, along with his young protégés Tess (the thief) and Thomas (the rich kid), and his faithful hound Tate (the smart one), is soon up to his neck in events of a singularly unscientific nature.

I read the first book in this series a while ago and then immediately bought this one, only to have it languish on my shelves unread for ages and ages. I was talking Rachel, though, and she told me I really should read on because she loves this series and is the reason I started reading it in the first place. I had moved it to my pile of books I need to read soon, but still it was just sitting there. I guess I just needed a little push in the right direction.

This series is so much fun. First, Horatio Lyle is insanely entertaining. You never know what he is going to do next. Just when you think you have him figured out... something else happens. And, then there are Tess and Thomas. They play off each other so well. Tess was a thief and Horatio opened up a whole new world for her. She is hard, a bit mouthy, and just plain fun. She really makes the books at times. She is always hungry, too, which adds some comic relief. Then, Thomas is the 'rich kid'. His parents don't seem to pay a lot of attention to him, though, so he finds himself looking up to Horatio more than anyone. Even the dog, Tate, is like a real character in the story. He isn't a talking dog, but we have insights into him that are fun. He also enjoys to eat and always seems to find himself in the middle of the danger, but prudentially stays out of it.

The four of them are detectives and scientists. The combination of the two makes for bizarre plots twists, but they work. They make the series so far the fun series that it is turning out to be. When Webb started writing she was relatively young, but she writes better than a lot of the adult authors out there finding popularity. If you are looking for a fun series, you should check this out. You will not be disappointed!

Series:

The Extraordinary and Unusual Adventures of Horatio Lyle

The Obsidian Dagger
The Doomsday Machine
The Dream Thief

This book counts for the Once Upon a Time V Challenge.

Collected Essex County by Jeff Lemire

Collected Essex County by Jeff Lemire

Completion Date: March 21, 2011

Reason for Reading: Canada Reads 2011

Where does a young boy turn when his whole world suddenly disappears? What turns two brothers from an unstoppable team into a pair of bitterly estranged loners? How does the simple-hearted care of one middle-aged nurse reveal the scars of an entire community, and can anything heal the wounds caused by a century of deception? Award-winning cartoonist Jeff Lemire pays tribute to his roots with Essex County, an award-winning trilogy of graphic novels set in an imaginary version of his hometown, the eccentric farming community of Essex County, Ontario, Canada. In Essex County, Lemire crafts an intimate study of one community through the years, and a tender meditation on family, memory, grief, secrets, and reconciliation. With the lush, expressive inking of a young artist at the height of his powers, Lemire draws us in and sets us free.

This new edition collects the complete, critically-acclaimed trilogy (Tales from the Farm, Ghost Stories, and The Country Nurse) in one deluxe volume! Also included are over 40-pages of previously unpublished material, including two new stories.

I do attempt to read the Canada Reads books, but the last couple years I have done rather bad at it. I figured I at least needed to read one and since I was surprised there was a graphic novel selection this year, I knew I had to see what it was all about. I am so glad that I did. I tend to read mostly graphic novels set elsewhere, so reading one set close to home was a bit refreshing. It felt familiar the whole time I was reading it because it was Canadiana at its best. It was very good representation of the quiet lives that appear to the outside when you live in the smaller areas, but the book shows that there is more to those quiet lives than meets the eye. I enjoyed how he managed to work the three stories together.

The collection takes the three volumes and puts them all together in one volume. This is a good idea because I can't imagine getting the same thing out of the story if you only read one of the books. They are meant to be a set or you miss out on a lot. When I first started, I thought they were three unrelated stories other than the setting, but as you get going with the story the connections begin to become apparent. I enjoyed how the nurse tied everything together and then in the end, when you discover that there is more going on than meets the eye. The stories are not happy ones, but they have their happy moments. They are just life with its ups and downs. Life is never met to be easy, but sometimes it is harder than anyone really expects.

I think this is a collection of graphic novels worth checking out. They seem so simplistic, but they are actually rather brilliant.

Comic Book Extravaganza - Take Two

Back on April 7th, I posted another Comic Book Extravaganza.

Hereville: How Mirka Got Her Sword by Barry Deutsch

Completion Date: March 9, 2011

Reason for Reading: Fun!

Spunky, strong-willed eleven-year-old Mirka Herschberg isn’t interested in knitting lessons from her stepmother, or how-to-find-a-husband advice from her sister, or you-better-not warnings from her brother. There’s only one thing she does want: to fight dragons!

Granted, no dragons have been breathing fire around Hereville, the Orthodox Jewish community where Mirka lives, but that doesn’t stop the plucky girl from honing her skills. She fearlessly stands up to local bullies. She battles a very large, very menacing pig. And she boldly accepts a challenge from a mysterious witch, a challenge that could bring Mirka her heart’s desire: a dragon-slaying sword! All she has to do is find—and outwit—the giant troll who’s got it!

A delightful mix of fantasy, adventure, cultural traditions, and preteen commotion, Hereville will captivate middle-school readers with its exciting visuals and entertaining new heroine.

I originally saw Vasilly post a review of this book and she loved it. This made me curious and my library actually had a copy, so I had to see what I thought of it. I have to say, I was rather impressed. One of my issues with reading lately is everything seems so much the same. I am getting tired of the same themes, the same plot lines, essentially the same characters, over and over again. This story, though, was fresh. How often do you see a story about an Orthodox Jewish community with a young woman who goes out and has great adventures. Plus, Mirka is a fun character that will make you want to follow along with her adventures. I was very impressed with both the artwork and the story, so I am very glad that I took a chance and read this.

Once Piece Volume 4 - The Black Cat Pirates by Eiichiro Oda

Completion Date: March 15, 2011

Reason for Reading: Carry on with the Series.

The superpowered pirate showdown continues, with Monkey D. Luffy's rubbery limbs tested to their limit against the fiendish Captain Buggy's Chop-Chop powers! Worse, Captain Buggy reveals an unexpected connection between himself and Luffyis long-lost hero, Captain "Red-Haired" Shanks! Only when the dust has cleared does Luffy's quest to become King of the Pirates truly begin. To learn the route to the Grand Line, where the legendary treasure called the One Piece is hidden, Luffy and his tiny crew must endure the Trial of the Forest on a remote jungle island. And waiting over the seas is the unpredictable Captain Usopp, who claims to be a deadly pirate captain... but Usopp says a lot of things. A semi-professional liar, Usopp spells endless headaches for Luffy's crew - but he may be their only ally against the very real dangers threatening his little town.

This is one of those series that I stalled on. I think I will probably stall on it again. I think it is a fun series, but it is HUGE and I just don't have the time for so many books. If the mood strikes me, I will read another, but I am not too concerned with getting to the end at the moment. The story at least is easy to pick-up on even if it has been a while. I just have to make some priorities and I know trying to get through this series will hurt my head. Eventually, the library will be missing volumes and that is frustrating. So, even though this series is a lot of fun, it is going back on hiatus for the moment.

The Complete Strangers in Paradise Volume 1 by Terry Moore

Completion Date: March 15, 2011

Reason for Reading: Fun!

This quality hardbound volume is the first in a series collecting the SIP story in its complete story arcs. Book One contains the entire original mini-series that introduced Francine, Katchoo, David, Freddie and more. Plus, a 5 page short story, sketchbook pages, character designs, creator notes featuring never before seen pages of script and unused scenes, and for the first time ever, actual pages from the original version of issue one that Moore never published, choosing instead to redraw the entire issue before its release date, altering scenes and characters alike. This is a must have book for the new reader and serious collector alike!

I have been curious about this series for a while, but I was having a hard time deducing what parts of the series my library had. I did a bit of research and was surprised to find they actually had the first volume of the series. And, I liked this comic. It was entertaining, even with its serious moments, and different from what I would normally read. I am not sure if I am a big enough fan to read on, though. I guess what I am trying to say is that it had its good points, I am glad that I finally got a chance to read it, but it was nothing amazing for me.

True Blood Volumes 1-6 by Alan Ball, David Tischman, Mariah Huehner, & David Messina

Completion Date: March 20, 2011

Reason for Reading: Fun!

Blood and sex mix on a hot rainy night at Merlotte's, when Sookie and her friends are trapped by a vengeful spirit who feeds on shame. People die and dirty secrets are revealed as Sookie, Bill, Eric, Sam, Tara, Jason, and Lafayette and are all coerced to dig deep and tell painful memories from their past-those things we all have locked within us that we never tell another living soul! Bon Temps, Louisiana has never been stranger, or more twisted, in a story co-plotted by TRUE BLOOD series creator Alan Ball, with a script by David Tischman (Bite Club) and Mariah Huehner, and lush art by David Messina (Star Trek: Countdown).

Okay, so first I tried to read Charlaine Harris' series. The book I read was okay, but I didn't love it. Then, we decided to watch the television show. We have watched the first season so far and the cc really likes it... I am was still a bit 'meh' about it. Not willing to admit defeat, I decided to try one more time with the comics and see what I thought of them. I have to admit, they have been my favourite so far. I am still not a huge fan of the series, but the artwork and this particular story were interesting. I just don't like Sookie. She annoyed me in the books, she annoyed me in the show, and she still annoys me in the comics. While I do admit this was pretty good, I am still not a huge fan overall. But, at least I can say I tried.

Dreams Underfoot by Charles de Lint

Dreams Underfoot by Charles de Lint

Completion Date: April 11, 2011
Reason for Reading: Carry on with the series.

Welcome to Newford. . . .

Welcome to the music clubs, the waterfront, the alleyways where ancient myths and magic spill into the modern world. Come meet Jilly, painting wonders in the rough city streets; and Geordie, playing fiddle while he dreams of a ghost; and the Angel of Grasso Street gathering the fey and the wild and the poor and the lost. Gemmins live in abandoned cars and skells traverse the tunnels below, while mermaids swim in the grey harbor waters and fill the cold night with their song.

Like Mark Helprin's A Winter's Tale and John Crowley's Little, Big, Dreams Underfoot is a must-read book not only for fans of urban fantasy but for all who seek magic in everyday life.

Today I am posting a buddy review with Meghan from Medieval Bookworm. She posted a list of possible reads for the Once Upon a Time challenge. When I saw this book on her list, I thought it would be fun to review it together because I was hoping to read it, too. This is our first time reviewing together, but hopefully it will not be our last!

For the review, she asked me three questions and I answered them below. Then, I asked her three questions and she posted about them on her blog. Enjoy!

1. Which was your favourite story in the collection? Why?

This is the hard question to answer both because I am not sure I can pick a favourite and because I am reading two short story collections by de Lint at the same time, so stories are running together in my mind a bit. I really enjoyed this collection from the very first story, 'Uncle Dobbin's Parrot Fair'. The whole idea behind that story really struck a cord with me. I also enjoyed stories like 'The Stone Drum' because they revealed even more about Jilly, who has always been my favourite de Lint character. To be honest, I couldn't really pick any story that I didn't like. They all had their merits and overall I was very pleased with the collection.

2. Throughout the whole anthology Jilly Coppercorn seems like the glue that holds everyone together - she appears in many of the stories and is almost a physical representation of the kinder side of Newford's underworld. I've read a lot about how she is everyone's favourite character (and she is mine). Was there a least favourite character for you? Was your favourite character a different choice?

Well, Jilly has always been my favourite. I think that is because the first book I read and loved by de Lint was The Onion Girl and that centres around Jilly. Reading short stories where she plays a central role has always made me enjoy her more and more. I have had Widdershins, the sequel to The Onion Girl, for a while and only haven't read it because I was planning to go back and read the books in order. While I was reading this book, I also started The Very Best of Charles de Lint. That was actually a good thing because it means that while characters are fresh in my mind, I am visiting with them again. I have to say that Meran has really started to intrigue me. I have read about her before, but only briefly. There were two stories in this collection including her, I believe, and I have all ready read 3 by her in The Very Best of Charles de Lint. I also enjoy Christy, the writer, and Geordie, the musician. There are other characters that I enjoy, but they didn't play a prominent role in this particular collection. As to any that I dislike.... Not really. I think they are all well-written and add to the story. There are none that I don't appreciate seeing more from, even if they are less than stellar people.

3. Have you read any of the other Newford stories, like the novels? How does this compare for you, considering it's the 'starting point' for readers of the series?

I have been meaning to read this book for a while because it is technically the first book, but beforehand I read a few novels and a couple short story collections. I do not find that anything was lost having read other books before this one, so I probably won't worry about reading order now. It was nice to go back and get introduced to the characters that I have come to love, but I didn't find it necessary. It has reached a point where many of them feel like I am visiting with old friends in a place I have easily come to recognize.

Another great de Lint book! Maybe this year will be the Year of de Lint... I know that I at least want to get to Widdershins this year.

Don't forget to visit Meghan's blog to see her answers!

Series (de Lint's Suggested Reading Order)

Dreams Underfoot

The Dreaming Place
A Whisper To A Scream (originally credited to "Samuel M. Key")
I'll Be Watching You (originally credited to "Samuel M. Key")
Memory And Dream
The Ivory And The Horn
Trader
Someplace To Be Flying (Read, but never reviewed.)
Moonlight And Vines
Forests Of The Heart
The Onion Girl
Seven Wild Sisters (also available in Tapping the Dream Tree)
Tapping the Dream Tree
Spirits in the Wires
Medicine Road
The Blue Girl (Read, but never reviewed.)
Widdershins
Make a Joyful Noise
The Hour Before Dawn
Old Man Crow
Little (Grrl) Lost (Read, but never reviewed.)
Promises to Keep
Dingo
Muse & Reverie

I am so bad at this reviewing thing...

Short Story Monday - The Very Best of Charles de Lint Part 2

At turns whimsical, dark, and mystical, this extraordinary collection of retold fairy tales and new, modern myths redefine the boundaries of magic. Compiling favored stories suggested by the author and his fans, this delightful treasury contains the most esteemed and beloved selections that de Lint has to offer. Innovative characters in unexpected places are the key to each plot: playful Crow Girls who sneak into the homes of their sleeping neighbors; a graffiti artist who risks everything to expose a long-standing conspiracy; a half-human girl who must choose between her village and her strange birthright; and an unrepentant trickster who throws one last party to reveal a folkloric tradition. Showcasing some of the finest offerings within the realms of urban fantasy and magical realism, this essential compendium of timeless tales will charm and inspire.

Today is part two of my discussion of The Best of Charles de Lint with Carl from Stainless Steel Droppings. This week he came up with the questions about the tree stories. Enjoy!

Stories Read This Week:

'The Badger in the Bag'

'And the Rafters were Ringing'

'Merlin Dreams in the Moondream'

1. Naming and the power of naming is a really big aspect of "The Badger in the Bag". Did you ever name an inanimate object, like a musical instrument, bicycle, vehicle?
No. I have lots of friends that name their cars and things, but it has never been something I have done. I always think about it, but then never actually do so. Even with my eReader. Apparently one of the companies has a slot where you can name it, so I thought maybe I would name mine. Never done so... I think my computer has a name, but that's only because they make you and I have no idea what it even is. I guess I am like Meran in the early part of the story with this idea.

2. Like the previous Meran stories in this collection, "And the Rafters were Ringing" is set in a time of belief in spirits, both good and evil, (and mischievous). In many ways we are better off living a less superstitious (for lack of a better word) life. What, if anything, do you feel we have lost as a people in not being as open to "magical" things?
Imagination. I have a big imagination and hope to always. It's why I read fantasy and other types of fiction. The other day, though, I was watching a childhood movie and there was a 12-year-old there. By the end of the movie I was shocked because he is still really young, and all he did was criticize the magic of the movie. I have to admit that the movie was sort of ruined because I can see messages that I didn't really see when I was a child, but I still enjoyed the fairies and other magical creatures. And, I could not imagine being 12 and not wanting to believe in those things at all. I think it comes from having ideas and then having them be shot down, so you start to think so logically that you can't see the magic in the world.

3. "Merlin Dreams in the Moondream" wood has a big emphasis on trees. Or one tree in particular. Actually these past 4 stories (with Meran's life tree) have acknowledged an important bond to trees. In what ways have trees played a significant part in your life, imagination, etc.?

I loved this story! I always enjoy Arthurian retellings, though, and I thought that this one was really well written! I have always been a tree person. To this day I constantly look at trees and see more than just the tree. I think that is why I enjoy the Ents in Tolkien's work so much. And, the trees in C.S. Lewis. The trees are alive in a way that is magical and I have always wished that was true. I think that trees have spirit and personality. I refuse to allow the cc to cut down our weeping willow because of the tree in Disney's Pocahontas. It was also one of the aspects of Avatar that I actually enjoyed. The idea that trees are all connected, that they are more than just trees, that they have personalities and feelings of their own... The use of trees in de Lint's stories are one of my favourite things. I believe that is why Meran is growing on me so much!

Previous Weeks:

Part One

Week in Review (15)

Random Thoughts

Another week with big reading plans and not enough time to hardly read anything. I had posted on Friday and said I was taking the evening to read, but I got interrupted so many times I gave up. Last night, though, I actually managed to finish A Discovery of Witches, so I am happy about that! I have been intrigued by that book since I heard about its release, but took a while to get to it. I am glad it lived up to my expectations and I am really looking forward to book 2.

In May, since April is just a slow reading month, I need to get back on track for my reading challenges. I will never finish the Reading Swap if I don't get around to some of the books. I should at least read the ones that would count for the Once Upon a Time Challenge. That's the only challenge I am doing well with. I have read 5 books and two graphic novels that count. Then, I have watched 6 movies and completed 2 short story collections. At least something is working out!

Challenge News

Like I said above, other than the Once Upon a Time Challenge, I am not making much progress on anything. This week essentially everything I read counts for that particular challenge.

Weekly Reads

82. Dreams Underfoot by Charles de Lint (Completed April 11, 2011)
83. L. Frank Baum's The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by Eric Shanower & Skottie Young (Completed April 12, 2011)
84. Fables Volume 15: Rose Red by Bill Willingham & Company (Completed April 15, 2011)
85. A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness (Completed April 16, 2011)

Another slow reading week... Although, I did finish A Discovery of Witches and that's a chunkster...

Weekly Posts

Week in Review (14)

Short Story Monday: The Very Best of Charles de Lint

Look What I Got!

Cover Discussion: Fables Volume 15

Taking the Evening and Reading

Review: Fables Volume 15: Rose Red by Bill Willingham & Company

New Additions

Bought:

Fables Volume 15: Rose Red by Bill Willingham (gift card)

The Rose Garden by Susanna Kearsley (gift card)

Borrowed:

Nothing this week...

Loaded:

Nothing this week...

Received:

Nothing this week...

Quiet week all around!

Fables - Volume 15: Rose Red by Bill Willingham & Company

Fables - Volume 15: Rose Red by Bill Willingham & Company

Completion Date: April 15, 2011

Reason for Reading: Carry on with the series.

The next collection in the New York Times best selling series.

Rose Red, sister of Snow White, has finally hit rock bottom. Does she stay there, or is it time to start the long, tortuous climb back up? The Farm is in chaos, as many factions compete to fill the void of her missing leadership. And there’s a big magical fight brewing down in the town square, right under her window.

Well, my reading night did not turn out like I had planned, but I did manage to read this book. And, wow, am I so glad that I did! Honestly, this has become easily my favourite in the series. I love all of the books, and I suppose they keep getting better and better, but this one made me so excited the whole time I was reading it! I can't say it enough, everyone has to at least try this series. And, the slackers (I mean that in the best possible way...) who have stalled on this series need to hurry up and read on!

First up, I am not familiar with the story of Rose Red & Snow White. I have never read the original, that I remember, and never thought I had read any retellings. If this retelling is correct, though, Tender Morsels is actually a retelling of the original story. That was interesting to learn and adds a bit more perspective to that novel for me. Now I really want to read the original, which is something I have been meaning to do for years anyway. I really enjoyed the addition of the story in the collection. There were probably people like me that knew there was a story that made them sisters, but didn't actually know how that worked and still made the story of Snow White believable.

For several comics now, things have not been going very well for Rose Red. It was obvious that something was going to happen soon to clear things up, so when I saw the cover and title for this collection I knew the time was finally here. I think that they did a very good job in tying up the loose ends and making her story believable. It is nice to have her back in the spotlight, too, because she adds a different dimension to the overall story that has been lacking for a while. Other characters are developed as well. And, even more is set up for future editions. I cannot wait until later this year when volume 16 is released. I am very excited for more of the story to be developed.

The other thing to note about this collection is it is longer than usual. There is the actual comic, but then there are bonus features included. I enjoyed the bonus material as much as I enjoyed the overall story. Some of it develops the story further. Then, there is part where famous readers ask questions and they answer them in comic form. It was fun! It is hard to believe that the series is up to 100 issues, but I hope it is around for 100 more! I will hate to see the end of the series...

The (Core) Series:

**Note: I have actually read the whole series, but was less than stellar about reviewing it...

Legends in Exile

Animal Farm
Storybook Love
March of the Wooden Soldiers
The Mean Seasons
Homelands
Arabian Nights (and Days)
Wolves
Sons of Empire
The Good Prince
War and Pieces
The Dark Ages
The Great Fables Crossover
Witches
Rose Red
Werewolves of the Heartland (Forth-coming)

This book counts for the Once Upon a Time Challenge V.

Taking the Evening and Reading...

I haven't read very much in April so far, so I have decided that is what I will be doing this evening. I also am doing laundry, so it is not like I am entirely wasting time, right?

The Reading Plans:

- I need to read at least 2 stories in The Dragon Book edited by Jack Dann & Gardner Dozois. This was a review copy and I did start it when I received it, but I have to be in the right mood for short stories. Since I have all ready finished two for the Once Upon a Time Challenge, I am hoping to finish this one, The Very Best of Charles de Lint, and maybe Wizards edited by the same two people. By the end of the weekend, it would be nice if I have read 6 short stories.

- I would really like to read the latest Fables.

- Then, I decided to read two books for the non-fiction quest offered as a part of Once Upon a Time. I have been reading The Return of the Shadow, a look at the writing process of The Lord of the Rings, for quite a while now. I would like to finish it by the end of the month so I can work another book in for May and June.

- Then, because of my fantasy infatuation lately, I have stalled on Troublesome Young Men by Lynne Olson. This is another book I would like to finish before the end of the month. Mainly because if I don't finish soon, I am going to forget the beginning by the time I get to the end at the rate I am going!

- I also have buddy reads going on. One is to read Enchanted Glass by Diana Wynne Jones. I should be done this by now because it is rather short, but I am only on page 93...

-Lastly, I am in the midst of A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness. It would be wonderful if I could finish this book by Monday. I am loving it so far, but there are just so many other books I want to be reading...

That's what I WANT to read. What I will actually get read is hard to say... I normally do not have so many books on the go at the same time, but I have been having some issues lately. It is mainly because I have so many books that I want to read and there are simply not enough hours in the day to get to them all!

What are your reading plans for tonight and the rest of the weekend?

Cover Discussion: Fables Volume 15

Okay, I don't get it. I preordered the newest Fables and when I ordered it, I was under the impression it had this cover. I love this cover!

Yesterday, I opened the parcel and this is what I found:

It isn't that I don't like the new cover, but I was very surprised and a little disappointed that it wasn't the main cover. I haven't read the graphic novel yet, but I did see they included aspects of the cover I was expecting inside.

The covers also have two different emotions behind them. The first one is rather dark, don't you think? The new one is rather empowering.

What do you think of the two covers?

Look What I Got!

Sheri, from A Novel Menagerie, sent me these four books and I received them at the end of last week. A Wish for Christmas and On Christmas Eve are the last two released books in his main series. Then, the other two are the start of a new series. It actually worked out that I had no idea where I had left off in buying the series, but it was these four books. I now own everything and seriously need to get back to reading the series. I always save it for Christmas and then I get too busy. Some of you may remember the craziness of the December that just went by, for example.

Short Story Monday - The Very Best of Charles de Lint

At turns whimsical, dark, and mystical, this extraordinary collection of retold fairy tales and new, modern myths redefine the boundaries of magic. Compiling favored stories suggested by the author and his fans, this delightful treasury contains the most esteemed and beloved selections that de Lint has to offer. Innovative characters in unexpected places are the key to each plot: playful Crow Girls who sneak into the homes of their sleeping neighbors; a graffiti artist who risks everything to expose a long-standing conspiracy; a half-human girl who must choose between her village and her strange birthright; and an unrepentant trickster who throws one last party to reveal a folkloric tradition. Showcasing some of the finest offerings within the realms of urban fantasy and magical realism, this essential compendium of timeless tales will charm and inspire.

Today starts weekly Short Story Monday's with Carl from Stainless Steel Droppings. We are reading The Very Best of Charles de Lint together, but we are only reading about 3 stories a week. Then, we will answer questions that sort of give you a glimpse of either what the story was about or some other important aspect that we feel is worth mentioning. We are rotating weeks, too. This week I came up with three questions and we both answered them. Next week is Carl's turn. It should be a lot of fun!

Stories read this week:

'In Which We Meet Jilly Coppercorn'

'Coyote Stories'

'Laughter in the Leaves'

Questions and Answers:

1. What did you think of de Lint's choice to have 'In Which We Meet Jilly Coppercorn' as the first story in the collection?

- Jilly Coppercorn is pretty much my favourite character in de Lint's books so far. I have read novels and other short stories that include her, so it was a bit late to be introduced to her. I have to say, though, when I saw the title for the story I got a bit excited regardless of how many times I have seen her before. It turns out that this is an edited version of one of the stories included in Dreams Underfoot, but I still enjoyed reading it.

2. The story, 'Coyote Stories', is a good example of a story with a moral message. Would you agree?

- I had a clear idea in my head for this question, but I wasn't sure how to write it so it made any sort of sense. There are common themes during de Lint's stories, and as he says in the introduction to this collection he tried to include representations of all his different types of stories. This story includes the idea of Coyote, who is a character that is included in many of de Lint's stories. There is also the moral messages included in the story. de Lint's stories may be shadowed in fantasy stories, but he successfully touches on things that are very important to the world as a whole. They are also timeless issues for the most part. This one talks about the troubles that people face, particularly drinking alcohol, and how they deal with the situation.

3. What did you think of the story 'Laughter in the Leaves'?

- Then, we return to a bit more straight fantasy story. This is a story that centres around Meran. I just recently read another short story about her and this one is set later in her life. She is not a de Lint character I am overly familiar with so far, but what I have read about her has been interesting. This is the story of a struggle between one slightly magical woman and a bodach. Fun story!

So, head over to Carl's blog to see his answers! Then, tune in next week for the next three stories.

Week in Review (14)

Random Thoughts

This weekend was a busy reading weekend for many people, but I never really got a chance to read at all. It turned out to be a busy weekend, so I am a bit behind on several things. I did finish a few books this week, but I am very close to finishing a couple others. I had big plans to get to them this weekend, but then I was hardly home. I am a little disappointed that it didn't work out. I didn't even get a chance to pay any attention to the readathon!

This week starts a slew of Short Story Monday posts as I review The Best of Charles de Lint for Once Upon a Time V with Carl from Stainless Steel Droppings. I also have a few books I really want to finish! There is Enchanted Glass for a buddy review with Memory and Ana. I have been reading Dreams Underfoot by Charles de Lint for a while and had planned to finish it this weekend, but I still have a few pages left. Then, there is a book about The Lord of the Rings and I am still supposedly reading Troublesome Young Men. I really would like to finish these books before starting anything else. The list of things I really want to start, though, is crazy long!

Challenge News

It was a Once Upon a Time V week. I finished Sisters Red by Jackson Pearce, The Shadow Hunt by Katherine Langrish, and terribly twisted tales edited by Jean Rabe & Martin Greenberg.

Weekly Reads

79. Sisters Red by Jackson Pearce (Completed April 3, 2011)
80. The Shadow Hunt by Katherine Langrish (Completed April 6, 2011)
81. Terribly Twisted Tales Edited by Jean Rabe & Martin H. Greenberg (Completed April 6, 2011)

Another week of only finishing three books! If this keeps up I will never get anything read...

Weekly Posts

Week in Review (13)

Review: Wolfsbane by Patricia Briggs

Death to Spam!

Buddy Review: Plain Kate by Erin Bow

Review: Comic Book Extravaganza

Review: terribly twisted tales edited by Jean Rabe & Martin Greenberg

New Additions

Bought:

Nothing this week...

Borrowed:

Hexwood by Diana Wynne Jones

Grl2grl: short fictions by Julie Anne Peters

Book Lust to Go by Nancy Pearl

The Fox Woman by Kiji Johnson

The Case of the Missing Marquess by Nancy Springer

Loaded:

Nothing this week...

Received:

A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness (The cc bought it for me...)

That Boy Red by Rachna Gilmore

The Book of Lies by Mary Horlock

I also received another package but I am going to post the list and pictures separately...

Sunday Book Coveting

See? This is why I have to start reading more than three books a week... I want to read all of these and many more!!