I read 368 books in 2009. That is my best reading year ever! I chose 50 books that I really liked out of them. I should probably have narrowed it down and made a top five or something, but this was fun. So, without further interruption, these are my top reads of 2009.
Graphic Novels:
Bone - Volume 1: Out From Boneville by Jeff Smith
The Plain Janes by Cecil Castellucci & Jim Rugg
Black Hole by Charles Burns
Rapunzel's Revenge by Shannon & Dean Hale
Laika by Nick Abanzis
Maus: A Survivor's Tale - Volume 1 - My Father Bleeds History by Art Spiegelman
Fables - Volume 1: Legends in Exile by Bill Willingham
Manga Books:
Dramacon Volume 1 by Svetlana Chmakova
Miki Falls - Book 1: Spring by Mark Crilley
Emma - Volume 1 by Kaoru Mori
Adult Novels:
Fingersmith by Sarah Waters
Peter & Max: A Fables Novel by Bill Willingham
Tatiana & Alexander (Bronze Horseman Trilogy, Book 2) by Paullina Simons
Cleopatra's Daughter by Michelle Moran
Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen
The Dark Queen Series - Book 5: Twilight of a Queen by Susan Carroll
Among the Mad: A Maisie Dobbs Novel by Jacqueline Winspear (Book 6)
Girl meets boy by Ali Smith
The Love We Share Without Knowing by Christopher Barzak
Old Man's War by John Scalzi
Black Ships by Jo Graham
Grave Goods: A Mistress of the Art of Death Novel by Ariana Franklin (Book 3)
Fantasy Novels:
Hunting Ground by Patricia Briggs (Alpha & Omega Series, Book 2)
Living with the Dead by Kelley Armstrong (Women of the Otherworld Series)
Twilight of Avalon (Twilight of Avalon Trilogy, Book 1) by Anna Elliott
Graceling by Kristin Cashore
Fire by Kristin Cashore
The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan
Skulduggery Pleasant by Derek Landy (Skulduggery Series, Book 1)
Mercy Thompson Series - Book 4 - Bone Crossed by Patricia Briggs
Canadian Fiction:
Fall by Colin McAdam
The Day The Falls Stood Still by Cathy Marie Buchanan
The Outlander by Gil Adamson
Forests of the Heart by Charles de Lint
JPod by Douglas Coupland
Teen Novels:
Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld
Rampant by Diana Peterfreund
Willow by Julia Hoban
Lavinia by Ursula K. Le Guin
Moon & Sun: The Ruby Key (Book One) by Holly Lisle
Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones
Skellig by David Almond
The Thief (Book 1, The Queen's Thief Series) by Megan Whalen Turner
Gossamer by Lois Lowry
The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary E. Pearson
Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr (Wicked Lovely Trilogy, Book 1)
East by Edith Pattou
Uglies by Scott Westerfeld (Uglies Series - Book 1)
Looking for Alaska by John Green
Audio Book:
Bloody Jack by L.A. Meyer
***Edited to add: A comment on this post made me think I should clarify something. For series like Fables and Bones I just included the first book in my best of lists, but really I love the whole series! I just thought including one book from each would be the easiest method.
Showing posts with label 2009 in review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2009 in review. Show all posts
Sunday, January 03, 2010
Sunday, December 06, 2009
Week In Review
Random Thoughts
I am posting today after all! I was cleaning up my sidebars to get ready for next year and decided to wrap-up a couple of challenges. So, this post was born!
It snowed last night. Our first significant snowfall of the year, actually. Well, actually, it snowed in January, February, and March; but you know what I mean. I am both happy about the snow and not. At least it wasn't enough to shovel, but soon shoveling will start and I was so sick of shoveling last year! It was never-ending! I am not anymore excited about it this year. They are saying there is not going to be a lot of snow, but you really never know. I hope it doesn't snow on New Years this year. We had a snowstorm last year and I want to do something this year.
I am posting today after all! I was cleaning up my sidebars to get ready for next year and decided to wrap-up a couple of challenges. So, this post was born!
It snowed last night. Our first significant snowfall of the year, actually. Well, actually, it snowed in January, February, and March; but you know what I mean. I am both happy about the snow and not. At least it wasn't enough to shovel, but soon shoveling will start and I was so sick of shoveling last year! It was never-ending! I am not anymore excited about it this year. They are saying there is not going to be a lot of snow, but you really never know. I hope it doesn't snow on New Years this year. We had a snowstorm last year and I want to do something this year.
Challenge Wrap-Up
I am getting my sidebar ready for 2010, but first I wasn't sure if I have wrapped up all the challenges that end up on December 31. Many I finished a long time ago and stopped keeping track of, but I still have the 2009 Pub Challenge and Herding Cats on my sidebar. I have also finished The Arthurian Reading Challenge. I might keep it on the sidebar, though, because it doesn't wrap-up until March and I might read a few more books that count for it.
2009 Pub Challenge - The object was to read 9 books published in 2009. Young adult were not allowed because it is a Pub. My list:
1. Men of the Otherworld by Kelley Armstrong 01/27/09
2. Bone Crossed by Patricia Briggs02/03/09
3. Grave Goods by Ariana Franklin 02/17/09
4. Storm Glass by Maria Snyder 05/01/09
5. The City and The City by China Mieville 5/26/09
6. I Met the Walrus by Jerry Levitan 05/04/09
7. The Blue Notebook by James A. Levine 07/07/09
8. The Story Sisters by Alice Hoffman 06/02/09
9. Among the Mad by Jacqueline Winspear 02/17/09
I enjoyed all the books I read for this challenge. The Armstrong, Briggs, Franklin, Snyder, and Winspear were books in series that I really enjoy. The only two authors that were new to me were Jerry Levitan and James A. Levine. The rest I have read other books by. I don't know if I can pick a favourite because several of those books will probably make my best of list for the year.
Herding Cats Challenge - This challenge ran from April 1st to December 31st. The challenge asked for 5 books, but I read 9 that would count.
1. One Piece: Romance Dawn by Eiichiro Oda
2. Life As We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer
3. Nation by Terry Pratchett
4. Skellig by David Almond
5. Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones
6. Jellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta
7. Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen
8. Four and Twenty Blackbirds by Cherie Priest
9. Marcelo In the Real World by Francisco X. Stork
Another list of books that I really enjoyed! They all had something about them that I enjoyed, so I am glad that I read them. I didn't not like any of them, which is always good. As opposed to the list above, there were more new-to-me authors than ones I had read before. The only authors I had read before were Terry Pratchett and Diana Wynne Jones.
I am getting my sidebar ready for 2010, but first I wasn't sure if I have wrapped up all the challenges that end up on December 31. Many I finished a long time ago and stopped keeping track of, but I still have the 2009 Pub Challenge and Herding Cats on my sidebar. I have also finished The Arthurian Reading Challenge. I might keep it on the sidebar, though, because it doesn't wrap-up until March and I might read a few more books that count for it.
2009 Pub Challenge - The object was to read 9 books published in 2009. Young adult were not allowed because it is a Pub. My list:
1. Men of the Otherworld by Kelley Armstrong 01/27/09
2. Bone Crossed by Patricia Briggs02/03/09
3. Grave Goods by Ariana Franklin 02/17/09
4. Storm Glass by Maria Snyder 05/01/09
5. The City and The City by China Mieville 5/26/09
6. I Met the Walrus by Jerry Levitan 05/04/09
7. The Blue Notebook by James A. Levine 07/07/09
8. The Story Sisters by Alice Hoffman 06/02/09
9. Among the Mad by Jacqueline Winspear 02/17/09
I enjoyed all the books I read for this challenge. The Armstrong, Briggs, Franklin, Snyder, and Winspear were books in series that I really enjoy. The only two authors that were new to me were Jerry Levitan and James A. Levine. The rest I have read other books by. I don't know if I can pick a favourite because several of those books will probably make my best of list for the year.
Herding Cats Challenge - This challenge ran from April 1st to December 31st. The challenge asked for 5 books, but I read 9 that would count.
1. One Piece: Romance Dawn by Eiichiro Oda
2. Life As We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer
3. Nation by Terry Pratchett
4. Skellig by David Almond
5. Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones
6. Jellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta
7. Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen
8. Four and Twenty Blackbirds by Cherie Priest
9. Marcelo In the Real World by Francisco X. Stork
Another list of books that I really enjoyed! They all had something about them that I enjoyed, so I am glad that I read them. I didn't not like any of them, which is always good. As opposed to the list above, there were more new-to-me authors than ones I had read before. The only authors I had read before were Terry Pratchett and Diana Wynne Jones.
Printz Project
The Printz Project is an on-going project. So far for it I have read 17 books. I hope to read a lot more next year. I had more out from the library, but ended up returning them unread. For those interested in what I have read so far my list is as follows:
Jellicoe Road by Melinda Marchetta - 2009 winner
Nation by Terry Pratchett - 2009 nominee
Repossessed by A.M. Jenkins - 2008 nominee
Your Own, Sylvia: A Verse Portrait of Sylvia Plath by Stephanie Hemphill - 2008 nominee
American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yung - 2007 winner
The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation; Volume 1: The Pox Party by M.T. Anderson - 2007 nominee
An Abundance of Katherines by John Green - 2007 nominee
Looking for Alaska by John Green - 2006 winner
how i live now by Meg Rosoff - 2005 winner
The First Part Last by Angela Johnson - 2004 winner
A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly - 2004 nominee
A Step From Heaven by An Na - 2002 winner
Kit's Wilderness by David Almond - 2001 winner
Monster by Walter Dean Myers - 2000 winner
Skellig by David Almond - 2000 nominee
Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson - 2000 nominee
Hard Love by Ellen Wittlinger - 2000 nominee
The Printz Project is an on-going project. So far for it I have read 17 books. I hope to read a lot more next year. I had more out from the library, but ended up returning them unread. For those interested in what I have read so far my list is as follows:
Jellicoe Road by Melinda Marchetta - 2009 winner
Nation by Terry Pratchett - 2009 nominee
Repossessed by A.M. Jenkins - 2008 nominee
Your Own, Sylvia: A Verse Portrait of Sylvia Plath by Stephanie Hemphill - 2008 nominee
American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yung - 2007 winner
The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation; Volume 1: The Pox Party by M.T. Anderson - 2007 nominee
An Abundance of Katherines by John Green - 2007 nominee
Looking for Alaska by John Green - 2006 winner
how i live now by Meg Rosoff - 2005 winner
The First Part Last by Angela Johnson - 2004 winner
A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly - 2004 nominee
A Step From Heaven by An Na - 2002 winner
Kit's Wilderness by David Almond - 2001 winner
Monster by Walter Dean Myers - 2000 winner
Skellig by David Almond - 2000 nominee
Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson - 2000 nominee
Hard Love by Ellen Wittlinger - 2000 nominee
Advent Calendar
Don't forget about the Virtual Advent! It started December 1st, but it is not too late to join up for days that haven't happened yet. Be sure and follow along even if you are not planning to post anything.
Don't forget about the Virtual Advent! It started December 1st, but it is not too late to join up for days that haven't happened yet. Be sure and follow along even if you are not planning to post anything.
Weekly Reads
I missed last week. In the last two weeks I have only managed to read the following:
Obasan by Joy Kogawa - For the Japanese and Canadian Reading Challenge. It is about the Japanese treatment in Canada during World War II. I both liked it and didn't... I was interested in the subject matter, but I wasn't crazy about Kogawa's writing method.
Fingersmith by Sarah Waters - Loved this book!
The Children's Book by A.S. Byatt - I am so happy that I read this book. It took me FOREVER! I just can't read chunksters from the library. It was my first Byatt and I both loved it and didn't.
Nova Scotia Book of Musts: The 101 Places Every Nova Scotian MUST See by Allan Lynch - I have been to a lot of the places mentioned, but I still have places to see! It was a very interesting book. I think I might buy my own copy.
Bone - Volume 3: Eyes of the Storm by Jeff Smith - The third book in the Bone series. I really enjoy this series! I think it is going to be next year before I read book 4. There is only one copy of that one and the list is rather long.
The Summer Tree by Guy Gavriel Kay - Okay, didn't like this book, but I have read Guy Gavriel Kay now! I discovered I was reading it but I was not retaining anything. I doubt I will read the sequels, but I do plan to try something else by him in 2010.
Truckers by Terry Pratchett - My first read for the Terry Pratchett 2010 Reading Challenge. I liked other books by him better, but I do plan to read the rest of the trilogy.
The Higher Power of Lucky by Susan Patron - I was actually looking for a graphic novel by her, but this won the Newbery and I had been meaning to read it for a while. It was pretty good, actually!
My reading has slowed down! It's rather depressing...
I missed last week. In the last two weeks I have only managed to read the following:
Obasan by Joy Kogawa - For the Japanese and Canadian Reading Challenge. It is about the Japanese treatment in Canada during World War II. I both liked it and didn't... I was interested in the subject matter, but I wasn't crazy about Kogawa's writing method.
Fingersmith by Sarah Waters - Loved this book!
The Children's Book by A.S. Byatt - I am so happy that I read this book. It took me FOREVER! I just can't read chunksters from the library. It was my first Byatt and I both loved it and didn't.
Nova Scotia Book of Musts: The 101 Places Every Nova Scotian MUST See by Allan Lynch - I have been to a lot of the places mentioned, but I still have places to see! It was a very interesting book. I think I might buy my own copy.
Bone - Volume 3: Eyes of the Storm by Jeff Smith - The third book in the Bone series. I really enjoy this series! I think it is going to be next year before I read book 4. There is only one copy of that one and the list is rather long.
The Summer Tree by Guy Gavriel Kay - Okay, didn't like this book, but I have read Guy Gavriel Kay now! I discovered I was reading it but I was not retaining anything. I doubt I will read the sequels, but I do plan to try something else by him in 2010.
Truckers by Terry Pratchett - My first read for the Terry Pratchett 2010 Reading Challenge. I liked other books by him better, but I do plan to read the rest of the trilogy.
The Higher Power of Lucky by Susan Patron - I was actually looking for a graphic novel by her, but this won the Newbery and I had been meaning to read it for a while. It was pretty good, actually!
My reading has slowed down! It's rather depressing...
Library Loot
Where I skipped a week this is a bit messed up. I will organize and post one next week, though! I think I might post a list of all the books I have out from the library.
Where I skipped a week this is a bit messed up. I will organize and post one next week, though! I think I might post a list of all the books I have out from the library.
Sunday Book Coveting
Next week I plan to start brain-storming what I am going to buy with Christmas gift cards. I get the same amount every year, so that means I can start choosing now!
Next week I plan to start brain-storming what I am going to buy with Christmas gift cards. I get the same amount every year, so that means I can start choosing now!
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Week in Review
Random Thoughts
Note to self, do not get really excited about reading weeks! The next week generally turns out to be rather bad after that... I have only finished three books this week. Count them, THREE! How depressing is that! It means several books are going to have to go back to the library unread, though, and that makes me sad!
I am still coughing from when I was sick. I get like this every year, but with the swine flu worries I feel like everyone thinks I am going to die! I really do get a bad cough every year... I mean, just ask the charming comedian! For our first date we went to the movies and I coughed for the first half and he kept asking me if I was okay. I was really regretting saying no to the drink, but he gave me gum and I managed to make it through the rest of the movie cough-free! That is probably why he just is my mini-pharmacy and doesn't complain... It is also why I am now required to have a drink at all movie viewings.
I am still coughing from when I was sick. I get like this every year, but with the swine flu worries I feel like everyone thinks I am going to die! I really do get a bad cough every year... I mean, just ask the charming comedian! For our first date we went to the movies and I coughed for the first half and he kept asking me if I was okay. I was really regretting saying no to the drink, but he gave me gum and I managed to make it through the rest of the movie cough-free! That is probably why he just is my mini-pharmacy and doesn't complain... It is also why I am now required to have a drink at all movie viewings.
November Reading Challenge
I don't think there are any new reviews for my unofficial reading challenge, but if there are feel free to leave the URL in the comments and I will post about it next week! I hope to read at least one more book for the challenge, but I wouldn't hold my breath...
I don't think there are any new reviews for my unofficial reading challenge, but if there are feel free to leave the URL in the comments and I will post about it next week! I hope to read at least one more book for the challenge, but I wouldn't hold my breath...
Virtual Advent
Can you believe that this starts in just over a week? I am so excited! There has been an amazing turnout of sign-ups and I can't wait to read all the posts! There is still plenty of time to sign-up and there will be a post soon with last-minute details. To sign-up, just head over to the blog! There are still some people I was hoping would sign-up that haven't... Hint, hint!
Can you believe that this starts in just over a week? I am so excited! There has been an amazing turnout of sign-ups and I can't wait to read all the posts! There is still plenty of time to sign-up and there will be a post soon with last-minute details. To sign-up, just head over to the blog! There are still some people I was hoping would sign-up that haven't... Hint, hint!
Dewey Reading Challenge
In December there will be a mini-challenge as a bit of a wrap-up to the challenge! It's all about doing things in Dewey's memory, so I hope that people will sign-up. There will be an official place to post your links in December, but for now you can read all the details on this post.
In December there will be a mini-challenge as a bit of a wrap-up to the challenge! It's all about doing things in Dewey's memory, so I hope that people will sign-up. There will be an official place to post your links in December, but for now you can read all the details on this post.
Other Challenges/Events
I have a big post scheduled for Thursday to talk about all the challenges I am planning to sign-up for so far in 2010, so be sure to check it out! In the meantime, I am hosting a read-along in 2010 to read The Time Quartet by Madeleine L'Engle. There has been a decent amount of interest so far, so I hope others will join in. I was just posting to see if there is any interest. Since there is, should I put up a place to offically sign-up or something?
Also, don't forget about The Alphabet in Historical Fiction that is being hosted by Historical Tapestry. The letter is 'A'. You still have another week to post for it. I know what my post is going to be, but I seem to have forgotten to post it. I will have to try and squeeze it in this week somewhere.
I have a big post scheduled for Thursday to talk about all the challenges I am planning to sign-up for so far in 2010, so be sure to check it out! In the meantime, I am hosting a read-along in 2010 to read The Time Quartet by Madeleine L'Engle. There has been a decent amount of interest so far, so I hope others will join in. I was just posting to see if there is any interest. Since there is, should I put up a place to offically sign-up or something?
Also, don't forget about The Alphabet in Historical Fiction that is being hosted by Historical Tapestry. The letter is 'A'. You still have another week to post for it. I know what my post is going to be, but I seem to have forgotten to post it. I will have to try and squeeze it in this week somewhere.
Weekly Reads
I read Peter & Max by Bill Willingham. I am reviewing this with Heather, so my review will be up on Tuesday! Then, I read Avalon High Coronation - Volume 2: Homecoming by Meg Cabot. This is manga series. Apparently there is a novel that they spin-off of and I have it from the library now, too. Lastly, I finished Ash by Malinda Lo. If you are doing the GLBT challenge next year this is a good book for it! It's supposed to be a fairy tale retelling, but it is not what you would generally expect...
It's not like I don't have good books on the go! I am reading Fingersmith by Sarah Waters, The Lacuna by Barbara Kingsolver, The Children's Book by A.S. Byatt, and Flappers by Joshua Zeitz. I just need to settle down, read, and finish something! That's the plan, anyway! Instead, I am thinking about all the books I want to be reading...
It's not like I don't have good books on the go! I am reading Fingersmith by Sarah Waters, The Lacuna by Barbara Kingsolver, The Children's Book by A.S. Byatt, and Flappers by Joshua Zeitz. I just need to settle down, read, and finish something! That's the plan, anyway! Instead, I am thinking about all the books I want to be reading...
Weekly Posts
Music Munday - Guest Post: SoundRelief
Review: The Wild Things by Dave Eggers
Dewey Reading Challenge: A Mini-Challenge
Random and Some Reminders
The Time Quartet Read-Along
Music Munday - Guest Post: SoundRelief
Review: The Wild Things by Dave Eggers
Dewey Reading Challenge: A Mini-Challenge
Random and Some Reminders
The Time Quartet Read-Along
Library Loot
Avalon High Coronation - Volume 2: Homecoming by Meg Cabot (read)
Day After Night by Anita Diamant (like the author)
Truckers by Terry Pratchett (Terry Pratchett Challenge)
Ash by Malinda Lo (read)
Avalon High by Meg Cabot (carry on with series)
The Passion by Donna Boyd (someone said I should try it...)
Flapper by Joshua Zeitz (Maybe Women Unbound...)
Princess in Pink (carry on with with series)
Avalon High Coronation - Volume 2: Homecoming by Meg Cabot (read)
Day After Night by Anita Diamant (like the author)
Truckers by Terry Pratchett (Terry Pratchett Challenge)
Ash by Malinda Lo (read)
Avalon High by Meg Cabot (carry on with series)
The Passion by Donna Boyd (someone said I should try it...)
Flapper by Joshua Zeitz (Maybe Women Unbound...)
Princess in Pink (carry on with with series)
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Week in Review and Sunday Book Coveting
Random Thoughts
I was a bit slack with my blog posting this week! I missed yesterday because of writing emails for the Holiday Swap. I got a late start because of some technological issues, but then I wanted to finish because there are so many things I want to accomplish this week! Actually, there is so much I want to talk about in this post that I think I will do it in more sections than normal!
I was a bit slack with my blog posting this week! I missed yesterday because of writing emails for the Holiday Swap. I got a late start because of some technological issues, but then I wanted to finish because there are so many things I want to accomplish this week! Actually, there is so much I want to talk about in this post that I think I will do it in more sections than normal!
Virtual Advent Calendar
One of the most important things about today is that sign-ups have started for the 4th Annual Advent Calendar! It is hard to believe it has been four years. My blogiversary is coming up and I will have been blogging for four years at that time. Crazy how fast time goes! Anyway, it is hosted by Marg and myself again this year and I hope that lots of people will join up! The calendar officially starts on December 1. To sign-up just head over to the blog. I look forward to seeing what everyone comes up with this year!
One of the most important things about today is that sign-ups have started for the 4th Annual Advent Calendar! It is hard to believe it has been four years. My blogiversary is coming up and I will have been blogging for four years at that time. Crazy how fast time goes! Anyway, it is hosted by Marg and myself again this year and I hope that lots of people will join up! The calendar officially starts on December 1. To sign-up just head over to the blog. I look forward to seeing what everyone comes up with this year!
November Reading Challenge
How is everyone making out with my unofficial reading challenge? I finished one book this week: Tatiana & Alexander by Paullina Simons. I even reviewed it! Nymeth read a book for it, too, and you can read her review by heading over to her blog. Anyone else? It is not too late to do so. The goal is to simply read a book that is related to World War I, World War II, etc in honour of Remembrance Day (or whatever it is called where you live!). Hope to see a few more reviews before the month is over with.
How is everyone making out with my unofficial reading challenge? I finished one book this week: Tatiana & Alexander by Paullina Simons. I even reviewed it! Nymeth read a book for it, too, and you can read her review by heading over to her blog. Anyone else? It is not too late to do so. The goal is to simply read a book that is related to World War I, World War II, etc in honour of Remembrance Day (or whatever it is called where you live!). Hope to see a few more reviews before the month is over with.
Dewey Reading Challenge
It was planned back at the beginning that I would do the mini-challenge in December for the Dewey Reading Challenge. I still plan to do so! There will be an official post about it on either Wednesday or Thursday. Basically, though, the point of the challenge is to do things you would likely do anyway. Dewey was all about the blogging community, and even her own community, so all you have to do is do something for either the blogging community or your own community and post about it. Easy, right? When I announce it formal I will set-up a Mr. Linky. I hope people will join in!
It was planned back at the beginning that I would do the mini-challenge in December for the Dewey Reading Challenge. I still plan to do so! There will be an official post about it on either Wednesday or Thursday. Basically, though, the point of the challenge is to do things you would likely do anyway. Dewey was all about the blogging community, and even her own community, so all you have to do is do something for either the blogging community or your own community and post about it. Easy, right? When I announce it formal I will set-up a Mr. Linky. I hope people will join in!
Other Reading Challenges/Events
I also just wanted to take a moment to mention Historical Tapestry. Believe it or not, I do still blog there! We have launched a new feature this week called The Alphabet in Historical Fiction. The details are as follows:
I also wanted to do some advertising for Marg and her reading challenge. She has decided to do a Terry Pratchett one. I have been working on Terry Pratchett this year. I read Nation, The Amazing Maurice and His Educated Rodents, and The Tiffany Aching trilogy. That means that it will be soon time to read the actual Discworld series. Since I plan to be reading it anyways it makes sense to make it a challenge! I actually have three Pratchett books on hold for me at the library, so I will just hold on to them until December 1 when the challenge starts. Head over to Marg's blog for all the details.
hm, I am starting to think I should have made this two posts!
I also just wanted to take a moment to mention Historical Tapestry. Believe it or not, I do still blog there! We have launched a new feature this week called The Alphabet in Historical Fiction. The details are as follows:
Each fortnight you have to write a blog post about an historical fiction book of your choice (it might even be something you already read before), but it MUST be related to the letter of the week.The fact that you can reuse old posts is a very big draw for me. I might actually manage to participate! This week is brought to you by the letter 'A'. Sorry, I couldn't resist! Tell me you know where I get that from... At least, it is sort of quoted correctly. I haven't watched Sesame Street in a number of years...
You have several possibilities:
- the first letter of the title
- the first letter of the author's first name or surname
- the first letter of a character's first name or surname
- the first letter of a place where an historical event took place
You just have to choose one of them and participate.
I also wanted to do some advertising for Marg and her reading challenge. She has decided to do a Terry Pratchett one. I have been working on Terry Pratchett this year. I read Nation, The Amazing Maurice and His Educated Rodents, and The Tiffany Aching trilogy. That means that it will be soon time to read the actual Discworld series. Since I plan to be reading it anyways it makes sense to make it a challenge! I actually have three Pratchett books on hold for me at the library, so I will just hold on to them until December 1 when the challenge starts. Head over to Marg's blog for all the details.
hm, I am starting to think I should have made this two posts!
Weekly Reads
At time of posting I managed to finish 8 books!
Wintersmith (Tiffany Aching Trilogy, Book 3) by Terry Pratchett - Speaking of Terry Pratchett, I finished the third book in this trilogy just this week! It was a fun book. I really enjoy Tiffany. I am also very happy to finish a trilogy! (This usually means I start another one... The sad thing is I did all ready. You will soon see!)
The Man Who Loved Books Too Much: The True Story of a Thief, a Detective, and a World of Literary Obsession by Allison Hoover Bartlett - I read this book because it was blogged about a lot for a bit and I thought it looked interesting. It is about a man that is obsessed with stealing books and the people that book stealing concerns. Nothing ground-breaking, but it was a good read.
Let it Snow: Three Holiday Romances by John Green, Maureen Johnson and Lauren Myracle - I read this because John Green has a story in it, of course! Although, I really like Maureen Johnson so far, too. I have never read Lauren Myracle before. I am going to be buddy reviewing this with Amy from My Friend Amy, so stay tuned!
Bone - Volume 2: The Great Cow Race by Jeff Smith - The second book in the Bone series. I am really enjoying this series so far! It is about time I got around to reading it. It's a lot of fun! I look forward to book 3 when it comes in for me at the library.
Tatiana & Alexander (Bronze Horseman Trilogy, Book 2) by Paullina Simons - I read this for my unofficial reading challenge. I have even reviewed it all ready! Go me!
Project Princess (Princess Diaries, Book IV and a half) by Meg Cabot - As I said last week, finishing up this series is a priority for me. I have too many series on the go! Mia kind of annoys me, that's why I stalled in this series, but they are still fun books... I have the next book on hold for me at the library.
Avalon High Coronation -Volume 1: The Merlin Prophecy by Meg Cabot - See? I finished one trilogy and started a series! It has Arthurian connections, though. I was looking for the book above and found this one and decided to give it a go. It is manga. Apparently there is a novel that is technically book one, so I have that and the next manga on hold for me at the library. I like Arthurian re-tellings...
The Father Christmas Letters by J.R.R. Tolkien - I love Tolkien, but yet I don't read him. I was looking for Christmas-related books and this one popped into my head. I had a total fangirl moment because one of the letters in the book mentions Nova Scotia! I live in Nova Scotia. I mean, Tolkien actually knew that Nova Scotia existed! That made me unnecessarily excited, but I feel the need to share. I even got the cc to read that letter! (The cc doesn't like Tolkien! Mind you, he has only tried to read The Hobbit, so I don't think he has given him a fair chance.)
Currently Reading:
Peter & Max by Bill Willingham
The Lacuna by Barbara Kingsolver
The Children's Book by A.S. Byatt
The Dragon Book: Modern Tales from the Masters of Modern Fantasy edited by Jack Dann and Gardner Dozois
A Bookish Day
Remembrance Day 2009
Review: Tatiana & Alexander by Paullina Simons
At time of posting I managed to finish 8 books!
Wintersmith (Tiffany Aching Trilogy, Book 3) by Terry Pratchett - Speaking of Terry Pratchett, I finished the third book in this trilogy just this week! It was a fun book. I really enjoy Tiffany. I am also very happy to finish a trilogy! (This usually means I start another one... The sad thing is I did all ready. You will soon see!)
The Man Who Loved Books Too Much: The True Story of a Thief, a Detective, and a World of Literary Obsession by Allison Hoover Bartlett - I read this book because it was blogged about a lot for a bit and I thought it looked interesting. It is about a man that is obsessed with stealing books and the people that book stealing concerns. Nothing ground-breaking, but it was a good read.
Let it Snow: Three Holiday Romances by John Green, Maureen Johnson and Lauren Myracle - I read this because John Green has a story in it, of course! Although, I really like Maureen Johnson so far, too. I have never read Lauren Myracle before. I am going to be buddy reviewing this with Amy from My Friend Amy, so stay tuned!
Bone - Volume 2: The Great Cow Race by Jeff Smith - The second book in the Bone series. I am really enjoying this series so far! It is about time I got around to reading it. It's a lot of fun! I look forward to book 3 when it comes in for me at the library.
Tatiana & Alexander (Bronze Horseman Trilogy, Book 2) by Paullina Simons - I read this for my unofficial reading challenge. I have even reviewed it all ready! Go me!
Project Princess (Princess Diaries, Book IV and a half) by Meg Cabot - As I said last week, finishing up this series is a priority for me. I have too many series on the go! Mia kind of annoys me, that's why I stalled in this series, but they are still fun books... I have the next book on hold for me at the library.
Avalon High Coronation -Volume 1: The Merlin Prophecy by Meg Cabot - See? I finished one trilogy and started a series! It has Arthurian connections, though. I was looking for the book above and found this one and decided to give it a go. It is manga. Apparently there is a novel that is technically book one, so I have that and the next manga on hold for me at the library. I like Arthurian re-tellings...
The Father Christmas Letters by J.R.R. Tolkien - I love Tolkien, but yet I don't read him. I was looking for Christmas-related books and this one popped into my head. I had a total fangirl moment because one of the letters in the book mentions Nova Scotia! I live in Nova Scotia. I mean, Tolkien actually knew that Nova Scotia existed! That made me unnecessarily excited, but I feel the need to share. I even got the cc to read that letter! (The cc doesn't like Tolkien! Mind you, he has only tried to read The Hobbit, so I don't think he has given him a fair chance.)
Currently Reading:
Peter & Max by Bill Willingham
The Lacuna by Barbara Kingsolver
The Children's Book by A.S. Byatt
The Dragon Book: Modern Tales from the Masters of Modern Fantasy edited by Jack Dann and Gardner Dozois
A Bookish Day
Remembrance Day 2009
Review: Tatiana & Alexander by Paullina Simons
Library Loot
The Good Women of China: Hidden Voices by Xinran (Women Unbound Challenge)
Letters from Burma (Women Unbound Challenge)
When I Was Puerto Rican by Esmerelda Santiago (Women Unbound Challenge)
Blue Noon by Scott Westerfeld (Carry on with series)
Prelude by Madeleine L'Engle (Finish off a trilogy)
Avalon High Coronation -Volume 1: The Merlin Prophecy by Meg Cabot (Read)
Project Princess (Princess Diaries, Book IV and a half) by Meg Cabot (Read)
Curse of the Blue Tattoo by L.A. Meyer (Carry on with Series)
Death Ship of Halifax Harbour by Steven Laffoley (Canadian)
The Father Christmas Letters by J.R.R. Tolkien
Since this is all ready a really long post, I am going to skip Sunday Book Coveting for this week! Okay, I think I am going to go read or something because I just stared at the computer for a really long time writing this post!
The Good Women of China: Hidden Voices by Xinran (Women Unbound Challenge)
Letters from Burma (Women Unbound Challenge)
When I Was Puerto Rican by Esmerelda Santiago (Women Unbound Challenge)
Blue Noon by Scott Westerfeld (Carry on with series)
Prelude by Madeleine L'Engle (Finish off a trilogy)
Avalon High Coronation -Volume 1: The Merlin Prophecy by Meg Cabot (Read)
Project Princess (Princess Diaries, Book IV and a half) by Meg Cabot (Read)
Curse of the Blue Tattoo by L.A. Meyer (Carry on with Series)
Death Ship of Halifax Harbour by Steven Laffoley (Canadian)
The Father Christmas Letters by J.R.R. Tolkien
Since this is all ready a really long post, I am going to skip Sunday Book Coveting for this week! Okay, I think I am going to go read or something because I just stared at the computer for a really long time writing this post!
Sunday, November 08, 2009
Week in Review and Sunday Book Coveting
Random Thoughts
As I write this, it is Saturday night and I have decided to have a mini-read-a-thon because I feel like I hardly had time to read all week. I am trying to find a new job and it is really stressing me out! I mean, the holidays are almost here and I am unemployed. So, reading took a backseat to me freaking out. Tonight, though, I am going to read and periodically update this post. Hopefully I will finish a book or two to bring my numbers for the week up a bit. That would be nice! I think I am going to go back to reading more than one book at a time. This year I have been mainly reading one book at a time, but I am getting a bit bored of that method. We will have to see if the multiple book idea works.
Don't forget about the unofficial November reading challenge. The goal is to read World War I, World War II, etc books in honour of Remembrance Day (or whatever it is called in your country). I am currently about halfway through Tatiana & Alexander by Paullina Simon. I read the first book, The Bronze Horseman, a couple years ago and it is about time that I finished the trilogy. I love these books, too, so there is really no excuse for being so slow! So far I haven't finished anything, though. Cath read Not so Quiet by Helen Zenna Smith. It actually sounds really good, but my library doesn't have it! Let me know if you finish anything and I will be sure to link to your reviews in these posts so that people can enjoy!
As I write this, it is Saturday night and I have decided to have a mini-read-a-thon because I feel like I hardly had time to read all week. I am trying to find a new job and it is really stressing me out! I mean, the holidays are almost here and I am unemployed. So, reading took a backseat to me freaking out. Tonight, though, I am going to read and periodically update this post. Hopefully I will finish a book or two to bring my numbers for the week up a bit. That would be nice! I think I am going to go back to reading more than one book at a time. This year I have been mainly reading one book at a time, but I am getting a bit bored of that method. We will have to see if the multiple book idea works.
Don't forget about the unofficial November reading challenge. The goal is to read World War I, World War II, etc books in honour of Remembrance Day (or whatever it is called in your country). I am currently about halfway through Tatiana & Alexander by Paullina Simon. I read the first book, The Bronze Horseman, a couple years ago and it is about time that I finished the trilogy. I love these books, too, so there is really no excuse for being so slow! So far I haven't finished anything, though. Cath read Not so Quiet by Helen Zenna Smith. It actually sounds really good, but my library doesn't have it! Let me know if you finish anything and I will be sure to link to your reviews in these posts so that people can enjoy!
Weekly Reads
This was a nice read. I really need to read more Orson Scott Card because he really is a good author. And, yes, it is a Christmas read, but since it is a library book I had to read it when it came in! I enjoyed it, though!
I listened to the audio version of this and I have to say it was really well done! I wish my library had the rest of the books in this series in audio, but they don't... I am so glad I listened to it, though. The story was fun, too, and I plan to read the rest of the series, but the narrator really made the story.
I have been compiling a list of series that I have on the go. I came to Madeleine L'Engle and discovered that there were still a couple books in the Austin family series I hadn't read because they are for young readers. The library had this one, so I decided I might as well cross one off the list!
I told Chris if he read this and really liked it I would buy it with the gift card I received for my birthday. He really liked it (although, I found out yesterday I am finished and he is not...) so I bought it! Since he hasn't reviewed it yet we are going to review it together!
I have seen a few reviews of this book, so figured I should give it a try eventually. I have read a lot of comic books this year, so wanted to read what McCloud has to say about the history. It was interesting, but it was finished in I think 1992. Would be interesting to see what he says about the next 20 years or so since he finished the book.
Another series that I started a really long time ago and think I should get around to finishing. Mind you when I started it there were a lot less books! As I get my series-on-the-go post updated you will probably see more random books appearing so I can get the list down smaller. Mia still annoys me, but we will see what happens! After I finish this I want to try a few of her other series, but I have to finish this one first!
Weekly Posts
Once Upon a Week: Review: Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George
Once Upon a Week: Buddy Interview: Interviewing Caitlyn
Joining the Christy Challenge: Stepping Out of the Comfort Zone
3rd Canadian Reading Challenge: Mini-Reviews
Graphic Novels: Mini-Reviews
Saturday Mini-Reviews: A Catch-up Post
Once Upon a Week: Buddy Interview: Interviewing Caitlyn
Joining the Christy Challenge: Stepping Out of the Comfort Zone
3rd Canadian Reading Challenge: Mini-Reviews
Graphic Novels: Mini-Reviews
Saturday Mini-Reviews: A Catch-up Post
Challenges
3rd Canadian Reading Challenge: I posted that I finished this challenge, but didn't share the entire list. Thought I would now.
1. Living with the Dead by Kelley Armstrong
2. Year of the Flood by Margaret Atwood
3. Sweetness in the Belly by Camilla Gibb
4. The Day the Falls Stood Still by Cathy Marie Buchanan
5. The Hunchback Assignments by Arthur Slade
6. The Outlander by Gil Adamson
7.Forests of the Heart by Charles de Lint
8. Haunted by Kelley Armstrong
9. The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong
10. As Nature Made Him by John Colapinto
11. War Brides by Melynda Jarratt
12. The Iambics of Newfoundland by Robert Finch
13. The Lost Garden by Helen Humphreys
I think my only challenges that I am still participating in are the Japanese Challenge (read at least 1 book), the Christy Challenge (read 3-4 books), and the Women Unbound Challenge (haven't decided how many to read yet). I successfully completed all the other challenges I joined in 2009!
1. Living with the Dead by Kelley Armstrong
2. Year of the Flood by Margaret Atwood
3. Sweetness in the Belly by Camilla Gibb
4. The Day the Falls Stood Still by Cathy Marie Buchanan
5. The Hunchback Assignments by Arthur Slade
6. The Outlander by Gil Adamson
7.Forests of the Heart by Charles de Lint
8. Haunted by Kelley Armstrong
9. The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong
10. As Nature Made Him by John Colapinto
11. War Brides by Melynda Jarratt
12. The Iambics of Newfoundland by Robert Finch
13. The Lost Garden by Helen Humphreys
I think my only challenges that I am still participating in are the Japanese Challenge (read at least 1 book), the Christy Challenge (read 3-4 books), and the Women Unbound Challenge (haven't decided how many to read yet). I successfully completed all the other challenges I joined in 2009!
Library Loot
After Dark by Haruki Murakami (Japanese Reading Challenge)
Let it Snow: three Holiday Romances (Buddy read with Amy from My Friend Amy)
The Stupidest Angel by Christopher Moore (Recommended by Cat)
The Children's Book by A.S. Byatt (My first Byatt!)
The Twenty-four Days Before Christmas by Madeleine L'Engle (Read)
The Great Women Superheroes by Trina Robbins (Women Unbound Challenge)
Understanding Comics by Scott McCloud (Read)
Princess in Waiting by Meg Cabot (Read)
The Magicians by Lev Grossman (Lots of reviews of this one)
Rose in Bloom by Louisa M. Alcott (About time I read this)
Zanna's Gift by Orson Scott Card (Read)
Heaven to Betsy by Maud Hart Lovelace (Carry on with the series)
Let it Snow: three Holiday Romances (Buddy read with Amy from My Friend Amy)
The Stupidest Angel by Christopher Moore (Recommended by Cat)
The Children's Book by A.S. Byatt (My first Byatt!)
The Twenty-four Days Before Christmas by Madeleine L'Engle (Read)
The Great Women Superheroes by Trina Robbins (Women Unbound Challenge)
Understanding Comics by Scott McCloud (Read)
Princess in Waiting by Meg Cabot (Read)
The Magicians by Lev Grossman (Lots of reviews of this one)
Rose in Bloom by Louisa M. Alcott (About time I read this)
Zanna's Gift by Orson Scott Card (Read)
Heaven to Betsy by Maud Hart Lovelace (Carry on with the series)
Sunday Book Coveting
I have wanted to read Byatt for a very long time. I am about 50 pages into this so far. I have three weeks to read it, so figured I would try to average about 50 pages a day.
An author that I have a lot of on my TBR pile, but never seem to actually read. This is her newest book and it is really good so far! I am about 100 pages in... I am enjoying the weaving of history with fiction.
Yes, this book is still here. It was due back to the library yesterday, so I really must finish it. I am hoping to either finish it or read a good part of it today.
Going to be buddy reviewing this, so I need to try and read it soon!
And those are just some of the books I want to try and read in November! What about you? What are your reading goals for November? The year is almost over, are there books you have wanted to read all year and haven't got around to so you feel you should hurry up and get to them now?
Have a great week!
Sunday, November 01, 2009
Week in Review and October in Review
Random Thoughts
Reading challenges! For November I am having an unofficial reading challenge where you read books with a World War I, World War II, etc theme to them. I did it a couple years ago and it is very fitting for this time of the year. I hope others will read along! If you do plan to let me know. I will make sure that people know about it!
Another announcement is that it is just a month until the Advent Calendar for 2009. We will have more details as time gets a bit closer, but wanted to start getting people excited now! For those of you that are not sure what I am talking about you can see the posts from last year by clicking on this link.
Another announcement is that it is just a month until the Advent Calendar for 2009. We will have more details as time gets a bit closer, but wanted to start getting people excited now! For those of you that are not sure what I am talking about you can see the posts from last year by clicking on this link.
Weekly Reads
This week was a bit of a slow reading week! Actually, October was not as busy a reading month as I was hoping.
I wasn't amazed with the first book in this series, but I actually didn't mind this one. I find the main character annoying. She is growing on me, though, so I will probably read more in this series. Kelley Armstrong is a great author and I love her adult novels.
Another excellent read by Scott Westerfeld! The hits just keep on coming this year with him. I am looking forward to book three.
I really liked this book! I am glad the library bought it for me. It is a werewolf novel, but it is different from others that are popular right now. I look forward to reading another book by her.
People have been telling me forever that I should read Bone, but it is really popular at the library. It finally came in, though, and I really enjoyed it! I am looking forward to book two coming in for me at the library.
I wanted to love this book, but I didn't. I liked it well enough, but it didn't blow me away or anything. That's not to say it wasn't written very well. It just didn't work for me. I am glad I read it, though!
This book has a fun concept to it, but I can't decide if I liked it or not. I will probably read the next book in the series, though, and I love that cover! I got my copy from the very nice Amy. She sent me the first season of Buffy, too. Isn't she great!?!
This week was a bit of a slow reading week! Actually, October was not as busy a reading month as I was hoping.
I wasn't amazed with the first book in this series, but I actually didn't mind this one. I find the main character annoying. She is growing on me, though, so I will probably read more in this series. Kelley Armstrong is a great author and I love her adult novels.
Another excellent read by Scott Westerfeld! The hits just keep on coming this year with him. I am looking forward to book three.
I really liked this book! I am glad the library bought it for me. It is a werewolf novel, but it is different from others that are popular right now. I look forward to reading another book by her.
People have been telling me forever that I should read Bone, but it is really popular at the library. It finally came in, though, and I really enjoyed it! I am looking forward to book two coming in for me at the library.
I wanted to love this book, but I didn't. I liked it well enough, but it didn't blow me away or anything. That's not to say it wasn't written very well. It just didn't work for me. I am glad I read it, though!
This book has a fun concept to it, but I can't decide if I liked it or not. I will probably read the next book in the series, though, and I love that cover! I got my copy from the very nice Amy. She sent me the first season of Buffy, too. Isn't she great!?!
October in Review
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne
The Iambics of Newfoundland: Notes from an Unknown Shore by Robert Finch
War Brides: The stories of the women who left everything behind to follow the men they loved by Melynda Jarratt
Jack of Fables - Volume 4: Americana by Bill Willingham
Fall by Colin McAdam
Sweetness in the Belly by Camilla Gibb
The Disappeared by Kim Echlin
The Curse of the Good Girl: Raising Authentic Girls with Courage and Confidence by Rachel Simmons
The Strain by Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan
The Eternal Smile by Gene Luen Yang & Derek Kirk Kim
The Sugar Queen by Sarah Addison Allen
Betsy and Tacy Go Over the Big Hill by Maud Hart Lovelace (Betsy & Tacy series, Book 3)
Tomorrow, When the War Began by John Marsden (Tomorrow Series, Book 1)
Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World by Vicki Myron
Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld
Year of the Flood by Margaret Atwood
Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George
As Nature Made Him: The Boy Who Was Raised As a Girl by John Colapinto
Geektastic: Stories from the Nerd Herd edited by Holly Black and Cecil Castellucci
Betsy and Tacy Go Downtown (Betsy & Tacy Series, Book 4) by Maud Hart Lovelace
Because I am Furniture by Thalia Chaltas
The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong (The Darkest Powers Series, Book 2)
Touching Darkness (Midnighters Series, Book 2) by Scott Westerfeld
Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
Bone - Volume 1: Out From Boneville by Jeff Smith
Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout
Eyes Like Stars by Lisa Mantchev
Guest Post: Music Munday - Lyrical Translation
Review: Year of the Flood by Margaret Atwood
This is Wednesday...
Review: Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld
Olympics 2010
Wrapping up One Challenge and Starting Another!
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne
The Iambics of Newfoundland: Notes from an Unknown Shore by Robert Finch
War Brides: The stories of the women who left everything behind to follow the men they loved by Melynda Jarratt
Jack of Fables - Volume 4: Americana by Bill Willingham
Fall by Colin McAdam
Sweetness in the Belly by Camilla Gibb
The Disappeared by Kim Echlin
The Curse of the Good Girl: Raising Authentic Girls with Courage and Confidence by Rachel Simmons
The Strain by Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan
The Eternal Smile by Gene Luen Yang & Derek Kirk Kim
The Sugar Queen by Sarah Addison Allen
Betsy and Tacy Go Over the Big Hill by Maud Hart Lovelace (Betsy & Tacy series, Book 3)
Tomorrow, When the War Began by John Marsden (Tomorrow Series, Book 1)
Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World by Vicki Myron
Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld
Year of the Flood by Margaret Atwood
Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George
As Nature Made Him: The Boy Who Was Raised As a Girl by John Colapinto
Geektastic: Stories from the Nerd Herd edited by Holly Black and Cecil Castellucci
Betsy and Tacy Go Downtown (Betsy & Tacy Series, Book 4) by Maud Hart Lovelace
Because I am Furniture by Thalia Chaltas
The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong (The Darkest Powers Series, Book 2)
Touching Darkness (Midnighters Series, Book 2) by Scott Westerfeld
Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
Bone - Volume 1: Out From Boneville by Jeff Smith
Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout
Eyes Like Stars by Lisa Mantchev
Weekly Posts
Guest Post: Music Munday - Lyrical Translation
Review: Year of the Flood by Margaret Atwood
This is Wednesday...
Review: Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld
Olympics 2010
Wrapping up One Challenge and Starting Another!
Library Loot
Bone: Volume 1 by Jeff Smith
Pride & Prejudice & Zombies by Seth Grahame-Smith
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley
True Patriot Love: Four Generations in Search of Canada by Michael Ignatieff
Bone: Volume 1 by Jeff Smith
Pride & Prejudice & Zombies by Seth Grahame-Smith
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley
True Patriot Love: Four Generations in Search of Canada by Michael Ignatieff
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Week in Review and Sunday Book Coveting
Random Thoughts
It is the Sunday of the read-a-thon weekend! I really hope someone will be awake to read this post! The read-a-thon is always really fun. At some insane hour, though, I was talking to Nymeth about how disorganized I felt this year. I normally read and comment a lot more on blogs, but this year I honestly think I am getting to a point where I am blogged out. I read a lot of blogs and BBAW wasn't that long ago. I might be headed to one of my blogging breaks, but that is normal for this time of the year. It also could just be stress!Or, it could be the fact that I was surrounded by such talent for cheering this year. I mean, Jill came up with the greatest comments EVER! I don't know if there is an award for best cheerleader, but if there is, she should win! Take this for an example, it is to the tune of 'Time Warp' from the cult classic Rocky Horror Picture Show:
It's astounding, time is fleeting
Reading takes its toll
But listen closely, not for very much longer
You've almost met the goal
I remember doing the Read-a-thon
During those moments when
The blackness would hit me and sleep would be calling
Let's do the readathon again...
Let's do the readathon again!
It's just a book in your hand
And then a flip of the page
With your eyes on the words
You let your mind engage
But it's the cheerleaders that really drive you insane,
Let's do the readathon again!
Your book is dreamy, or hot and steamy
It stars a banshee, or no one at all
It’s in another dimension, there’s no comprehension
Oh no, there’s none at all
With a bit of a page flip
You're suddenly on a space ship
And nothing can ever be the same
You're strung out on cookies, you sound like a Wookie
Let's do the readathon again!
Well I was strolling through the bookstore just havin’ a look
When what should I espy but my next book
It shook me up, it took me by surprise
It had a sale tag and Care gave it 5 pies.
It lured me in and I felt a change
Time meant nothing, never would again
Let's do the readathon again!
Isn't that the greatest thing ever? It could be the fact that it is 4 in the morning, but I love it!
Moving on! The read-a-thon is a bit bittersweet this year. The Hour 15 mini-challenge was all about remembering Dewey and I read some wonderful posts! Like I said yesterday, I knew who Dewey was, I read her blog and she read mine, but I would call us more acquaintances than friends. I do wish I had gotten to know her better, though! I do hope that whatever happens when you die; Dewey is aware of the lasting impact she has made in this blogging world!
Weekly Reads
I managed to finish 7 books this week. I almost wish I had read for the read-a-thon because it would have been nice to have read even more, but I am happy with what I did accomplish. It brings my total for the year to 322. I am extremely impressed with this number! I have read so many fantastic books this year. Actually, I would say my most common comment for the read-a-thon was saying something about the book someone was reading and how I had already read it and enjoyed it! I have read a lot of books...
The new Scott Westerfeld was a great read! It is hard to believe I hadn't read him before this year and now he is on my auto-buy list. This book had a great story, but it is also just really nice. The cover art both inside out was fantastic and it had excellent illustrations included inside. This is a book that will look very nice on my shelves! This is going to be a buddy read with Heather.
I managed to finish 7 books this week. I almost wish I had read for the read-a-thon because it would have been nice to have read even more, but I am happy with what I did accomplish. It brings my total for the year to 322. I am extremely impressed with this number! I have read so many fantastic books this year. Actually, I would say my most common comment for the read-a-thon was saying something about the book someone was reading and how I had already read it and enjoyed it! I have read a lot of books...
The new Scott Westerfeld was a great read! It is hard to believe I hadn't read him before this year and now he is on my auto-buy list. This book had a great story, but it is also just really nice. The cover art both inside out was fantastic and it had excellent illustrations included inside. This is a book that will look very nice on my shelves! This is going to be a buddy read with Heather.
The new Margaret Atwood. This book was long-listed for the Giller, too, so it is another read for my Giller-a-thon. I have three more short-listed books to read for that, though, so I need to get to them before November 10. A review of this will be up on Tuesday as a buddy review with Chris from book-a-rama. It's our first buddy read together! (We were supposed to read another book last month, but I couldn't get into it.)
I have wanted to read this book since it first came out. I am so glad that I finally found the chance. A retelling of a classic fairy tale done quite well. Juliet Marillier has also retold that same fairy tale. I read her book a couple years ago. This book wasn't anything ground-breaking for the retelling, but it was fun.
I don't know what to think about this book. On the one hand it was fascinating because I am no scientist, but I even thought the main one presented in this book was very, very wrong. He really thought if it was done from an early age a boy could be raised as a girl and honestly think that they are a girl. I don't! Anyway, I actually ended up having a big discussion with the cc about this book. I think that is why I read non-fiction, actually, because even though very few of my friends read I can always find someone interested enough in the topic I am reading about to discuss it with me. Other times I found that I got really bogged down with information, though, and I will admit that I hardly read a chapter because I found it the same thing that had been said before and not that interesting at all anymore.
This book is a testament to my young adult reading for this year. I have read almost all of the authors presented in this book before! Before this year, I had read one (Libba Bray). 2009 was very much the year of young adult for me. The collection starts off with a guy and a girl at a convention. One is a klingon on and the other is a Jedi. They wake up in bed together, which is not really 'allowed', so it is fun to see what happens next. I have to bring this back to the library because someone wants it, so I need to figure out a review and will hopefully post it this week.
Another enjoyable book in this series. I think I said before that I will probably just talk about the series in one post after I see how far I read into this year. This is the fourth book and I am going to put the fifth book on hold at some point today.
I read this book because Sassymonkey posted a list of library books that she didn't think she was going to be able to get to. This book was on the list and I thought it looked really good, so I requested it from the library. I have had it out for a while, so I am glad that I finally read it. Written in lyrical form it is a very effective look at the power of having a voice.
As for what I am reading now... I am supposed to be reading a book by Sara Douglass for a buddy read. I have entirely misplaced the book, though, so I am way late on that one! Then, I am supposed to be reading a book by Jennifer Fallon, but I haven't started it yet. Oh, and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. I am supposed to be reading that, too. What am I actually reading? I started Generation A by Douglas Coupland last night and have been listening to Bloody Jack by L.A. Meyer on audio in my car. The narrator is fantastic!
Weekly Posts
Guest Post: Music Munday: Reading and Writing
Review: Blueberry Girl by Neil Gaiman
Review: The Blue Notebook by James A. Levine
Review: The City & the City by China Mieville
24-Hour Read-a-thon Post: Though the Weather Outside is Frightful...
24-Hour Read-a-thon Post
Guest Post: Music Munday: Reading and Writing
Review: Blueberry Girl by Neil Gaiman
Review: The Blue Notebook by James A. Levine
Review: The City & the City by China Mieville
24-Hour Read-a-thon Post: Though the Weather Outside is Frightful...
24-Hour Read-a-thon Post
Library Loot
The Man with the Golden Torc by Simon Green
Traveling with Pomegranates by Sue Monk Kidd
Fruit by Brian Francis
The Man Who Loved Books Too Much by Allison Hoover Bartlett
Alice Munro: Writing her Lives: A Biography by Robert Thacker
Betsy and Tacy Go Downtown by Maud Hart Lovelace
What is the What by David Eggers
The Lace Makers of Glenmara by Heather Doran Barbieri
The Nymph and the Lamp by Thomas H. Raddall
Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
Note's From the Hyena's Belly by Nega Mezlekia
The Man with the Golden Torc by Simon Green
Traveling with Pomegranates by Sue Monk Kidd
Fruit by Brian Francis
The Man Who Loved Books Too Much by Allison Hoover Bartlett
Alice Munro: Writing her Lives: A Biography by Robert Thacker
Betsy and Tacy Go Downtown by Maud Hart Lovelace
What is the What by David Eggers
The Lace Makers of Glenmara by Heather Doran Barbieri
The Nymph and the Lamp by Thomas H. Raddall
Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
Note's From the Hyena's Belly by Nega Mezlekia
Sunday Book Coveting
From last weeks list: I have read Geektastic. I think Eucalyptus is going back to the library unread. I also read Princess of the Midnight Ball. The rest of the books I still want to read! I would love to read Libba Bray's book, Kelley Armstrong's book, Derek Landy's, and finish the Douglas Coupland this week. Since I own all of them, though, it is likely that won't happen... I also need to read the Giller-a-thon books I have left and then write up posts for all of them. See, I can really covet my own books because even if I own them, it doesn't mean I have time to read them!
From last weeks list: I have read Geektastic. I think Eucalyptus is going back to the library unread. I also read Princess of the Midnight Ball. The rest of the books I still want to read! I would love to read Libba Bray's book, Kelley Armstrong's book, Derek Landy's, and finish the Douglas Coupland this week. Since I own all of them, though, it is likely that won't happen... I also need to read the Giller-a-thon books I have left and then write up posts for all of them. See, I can really covet my own books because even if I own them, it doesn't mean I have time to read them!
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Week in Review and Sunday Book Coveting
Random Thoughts
To start things off, it is almost time for the read-a-thon! Since my next post of this nature will be afterwards, I just wanted to wish everyone participating good luck. I have seen the piles and all of the plans. I think it is going to be a lot of fun! I'll be around, I am sure, but I am not going to actively participate. Maybe in the spring I will read, but otherwise I have always been a lurker for the read-a-thon. Or, a cheerleader. When the read-a-thon first happened Dewey actually had a hard time finding cheerleaders compared to readers, so it is good to see that isn't the case anymore! Anyway, happy reading!
On another note, three years ago I hosted a very informal reading challenge on my blog. This was back when reading challenges were not nearly as popular as they are now! I have been thinking the last few weeks about doing it again and then Sassymonkey brought it up in an email that she sent me. It only lasts the month of November and the goal is to read fiction or non-fiction dealing with one of the major wars. There is no book limit, or really any rules. It is just because it is Remembrance Day in Canada, Veteran's Day in the U.S., etc. I look at it as a way to support those that gave their lives for our countries. I hope people will informally join in! (And if you are thinking about it, let me know!)
On another note, three years ago I hosted a very informal reading challenge on my blog. This was back when reading challenges were not nearly as popular as they are now! I have been thinking the last few weeks about doing it again and then Sassymonkey brought it up in an email that she sent me. It only lasts the month of November and the goal is to read fiction or non-fiction dealing with one of the major wars. There is no book limit, or really any rules. It is just because it is Remembrance Day in Canada, Veteran's Day in the U.S., etc. I look at it as a way to support those that gave their lives for our countries. I hope people will informally join in! (And if you are thinking about it, let me know!)
Weekly Reads
This week was a bit of a slow one in some ways. I read good books, but I felt like it took me forever to accomplish it.
I read American Born Chinese earlier this year, so when I saw that the library had another book by the author I decided to give it a try. It turned out to not be as good as his first book, but I still liked it.
I really, really liked this book! I read Garden Spells earlier this year. Still haven't reviewed it, but I really liked that one, too. I think I might review both books together. I honestly didn't think the books were for me, but the magic realism made the book something I had to continue with. This one had a woman that books appeared to. The minute I read that I knew I was going to be spending some time with the book!
I mentioned on Twitter one day that the library had all the books in this series but this one and how annoying that was. I ended up getting two offers o f copies! It arrived in the mail yesterday from Harper Collins in the U.S. I think I will probably see how far I get in this series I get by the end of the year and then talk about the progress. This is book 3 and I have book 4 on hold at the library! I wouldn't say this is the best series ever, but I do enjoy it!
I feel like I have had this book out from the library forever, but I finally read it! Very proud of myself. I really liked it, too, so that was a plus. Disappointed that the library is going to make it complicated to read the rest of the series, but I will survive!
I really like non-fiction books about animals. I have wanted to read this book for a while and was happy to see it sitting on a display at the library the other day. It was good, but there were a few dull parts that I didn't really care about and I skipped most of a chapter because I was a bit bored, but still glad I read it!
As for what I am reading right now: I am very disorganized and have a small pile of books on the go. Very rare for me nowadays! We will see what winds up getting read this week...
Weekly Posts
This week was a bit of a slow one in some ways. I read good books, but I felt like it took me forever to accomplish it.
I am so glad that I read this book. It was the perfect vampire and paranormal novel for Halloween. It was creepy, that's for sure. I look forward to more books in the trilogy as they are released. There were a few graphic scenes, but otherwise it was a good read.
I read American Born Chinese earlier this year, so when I saw that the library had another book by the author I decided to give it a try. It turned out to not be as good as his first book, but I still liked it.
I really, really liked this book! I read Garden Spells earlier this year. Still haven't reviewed it, but I really liked that one, too. I think I might review both books together. I honestly didn't think the books were for me, but the magic realism made the book something I had to continue with. This one had a woman that books appeared to. The minute I read that I knew I was going to be spending some time with the book!
I mentioned on Twitter one day that the library had all the books in this series but this one and how annoying that was. I ended up getting two offers o f copies! It arrived in the mail yesterday from Harper Collins in the U.S. I think I will probably see how far I get in this series I get by the end of the year and then talk about the progress. This is book 3 and I have book 4 on hold at the library! I wouldn't say this is the best series ever, but I do enjoy it!
I feel like I have had this book out from the library forever, but I finally read it! Very proud of myself. I really liked it, too, so that was a plus. Disappointed that the library is going to make it complicated to read the rest of the series, but I will survive!
I really like non-fiction books about animals. I have wanted to read this book for a while and was happy to see it sitting on a display at the library the other day. It was good, but there were a few dull parts that I didn't really care about and I skipped most of a chapter because I was a bit bored, but still glad I read it!
As for what I am reading right now: I am very disorganized and have a small pile of books on the go. Very rare for me nowadays! We will see what winds up getting read this week...
Weekly Posts
Six Sentence Saturday
Review: Rampant by Diane Peterfreund
Review: Sweetness in the Belly by Camilla Gibb
Review: The Love we Share Without Knowing by Christopher Barzak
Review: Wonderland by Tommy Kovac
Guest Post: Music Munday: Josh Groban
Review: Rampant by Diane Peterfreund
Review: Sweetness in the Belly by Camilla Gibb
Review: The Love we Share Without Knowing by Christopher Barzak
Review: Wonderland by Tommy Kovac
Guest Post: Music Munday: Josh Groban
Library Loot
The Winter Sea by Susanna Kearsley
Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout
Dewey: The small-town library cat who touched the world by Vicki Myron
IWK: A Century of Caring for Families by Stephen Kimber
Prairie Tale: A Memoir by Melissa Gilbert
Tigerheart by Peter David
The Ruins of Gorlan by John Flanagan
Canuck Rock: a history of Canadian popular music by Ryan Edwardson
The awakening by Kelley Armstrong
Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout
Dewey: The small-town library cat who touched the world by Vicki Myron
IWK: A Century of Caring for Families by Stephen Kimber
Prairie Tale: A Memoir by Melissa Gilbert
Tigerheart by Peter David
The Ruins of Gorlan by John Flanagan
Canuck Rock: a history of Canadian popular music by Ryan Edwardson
The awakening by Kelley Armstrong
Sunday Book Coveting
I have started making Sunday Book Coveting books that I really want to read. In most cases I own them... I covet my own books because there are not enough hours in the day. It is as simple as that!
What books do you really want to read? I have way more that I could post about, but that's nothing new. That's sort of the point of a TBR pile, right?
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