A funny thing happened this past week while I was sick. You might remember it from last Wednesday's blog post. Because I was sick and miserable, and my sinuses hurt when I laid down and tried to sleep, I spent the week reading. First, I read a full book in one day. Then, I did it again the next day. And the next. And the next. And the next. I've read eight books now in eight days and if I finish tonight's novel, it will be nine for nine.
I've always been a big reader but I have to say, this is something else. I can't remember the last time I've gorged on books like this. Possibly my honeymoon, but even then it was eight books in ten days. I've taken a weird amount of pride in it too. I'm starting to feel like my cold may have triggered a super power. Is that who I am now? The batman of reading? (That would be the most boring comic book of all time). In any case, I've decided it can't be a bad thing. Stephen King wrote in his memoir, ON WRITING, that it's important to read and write, in fact he specifically recommended spending at least six hours a day on the combined activities. No problem, Mr. King. No problem.
Anyway, what you've been thinking this entire post is correct. I am just writing a blog to brag on my awesome reading streak. I don't care. I am. And you know what? Now I'm going to stop writing so I can go finish my book and keep the streak going. Because that's who I am now.
Showing posts with label books. Show all posts
Showing posts with label books. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Monday, May 13, 2013
Monday Book Review - Sunshine
Maybe this week's choice was inspired by yesterday's abundance of it, or it could be that destiny simply made the book's spine sparkle just so as I walked by, reminding me that I simply must tell the world of it's brilliance, or it could be that the three books I read last week simply weren't up to snuff enough to offer up as a book recommendation, causing me to cast further back into my subconscious for a truly good read. Either way, you're in for a treat.
SUNSHINE by Robin McKinley
Sunshine is not your typical vampire story. I know, I know. We're all sick to death of vampires. Twilight has ruled them horribly uncool for the foreseeable future. But I promise you, this book is so much more than the typical vomit worthy love story of the pathetic girl who can't seem to fit in meets charming, dark fellow who turns out to be a vampire with a heart of gold. Blech. Been there, done that. No, this story is filled with whimsy, magic, darkness and pure imagination. Gone is the melancholy beautiful man struggling through eternity. And good riddance!
The writing is exquisite (no big surprise, if you've read Robin McKinley's other works), the story completely original. I guarantee you've never read anything like it. I especially love the main character, Sunshine. She's strong, complex and without a single genre cliche. The story is told perfectly, unfolding just right at just the right times. It's the kind of book I love most. The kind you just can't put down.
So, if you're looking for something different, something intoxicating, this is it. A fantastic story told by an incredibly talented author. (I also highly suggest Deerskin, another work of hers that I just love.)
Monday, April 1, 2013
Monday Book Review - Horns
Welcome to Monday and this week's book recommendation. I hope you've got your reading goggles at the ready, because this one is going to knock your socks off! And no, in answer to your question, there is no such thing as reading goggles. I made them up. You're welcome.
HORNS by Joe Hill
After a truly horrible night Iggy can barely remember, he wakes up with more than a hangover. He has horns growing from his forehead. It seems fitting, given that the love of his life was raped and murdered a year ago that he should have a breakdown, or at least that's what he assumes is happening. But the horns are not a hallucination, and they come with very strange powers he can't explain. Powers that could be put to use...
I can't say enough good things about this book. It's like hands reached out from between the pages and grabbed me, pulling me in and refusing to let me go. It was one of those books that make you cancel plans, because the thought of having to put it down, even for an hour or two is more than you can bear. Of course it was brilliantly written, that's a given, but I'm not lying when I say it had me captive from the first paragraph.
What was my favourite part about this book? I think the originality of the plot for one, the idea of waking up with horns on your head is just too intriguing to ignore, but more than that, it was the way the plot was structured. The flow of the story was perfect, so well paced, the flashbacks and character reveals so cleverly done. I also enjoyed the fresh take on the idea of the devil and the role he plays on each of our shoulders.
Definitely pick this one up, it's a devilishly good read. (I know. I couldn't help myself).
Don't forget to leave your own book recommendations and comments in the comments section below!
Monday, March 18, 2013
Book Review Monday - The Vanishing Act
It's Monday! Time to dust off the drudgery of starting another work week and look at the positive side: it's time for this week's book recommendation. If you've read this week's selection, or have recommendations of your own, please share your thoughts in the comments section. I look forward to hearing from all of you!
The story begins with twelve year old Minou discovering the body of a young boy on the beach. She lives on a tiny island with her philosopher father, a boxman and his dog, No Name, and a priest. A year ago her mother disappeared, and while everyone else believes she is dead, Minou believes that she's alive and well and will soon return.
My favourite thing about this book was the imagination. Mette Jakobsen weaves a world filled with mystery and magic, creating characters that are entirely unique and somehow effortlessly real. There's a rather melancholy sweetness to this story, that leaves you feeling enchanted and thoughtful.
This is a lovely story that really shouldn't be missed. It's original, beautifully told and filled with memorable, charming characters. Definitely pick this one up and give it a read.
THE VANISHING ACT: A NOVEL by Mette Jakobsen
My favourite thing about this book was the imagination. Mette Jakobsen weaves a world filled with mystery and magic, creating characters that are entirely unique and somehow effortlessly real. There's a rather melancholy sweetness to this story, that leaves you feeling enchanted and thoughtful.
This is a lovely story that really shouldn't be missed. It's original, beautifully told and filled with memorable, charming characters. Definitely pick this one up and give it a read.
Monday, March 4, 2013
A Book in Progress
As you probably know, for the past couple of months I've been meeting with the current Writer in Residence, David A. Poulsen. He's been working with me on my manuscript; the same rough draft that made me a winner in the June 2012 NaNoWriMo challenge. Because that's what you get with NaNoWriMo, a rough draft. Sometimes people think they'll have a publishable book at the end of those thirty days and I think it's important to note that although you might have a great first draft, it will need to go through the usual process of editing, more editing, still more editing, followed by even more editing. But that's a topic for another day.
Anyway, to get back on track, since writing the rough draft of my book in June, I've been editing it on my own and now editing it with David. He's been fantastic, and with his guidance I've uncovered certain plot holes and character flaws that I'm now correcting. And the truth is, this project is one that I'm really excited about. This isn't the first book I've written, but it is the first book that I've been really excited about. With this book, I get a stirring inside that whispers, "this could really be something!"
I won't have time to go through the whole book with David before his residency is up, but he has me pointed in the right direction. And when I've finished this wave of editing, I'll be sending it in for a manuscript evaluation service with the Saskatchewan Writer's Guild. And when that's done and I've done even more editing, I'll be letting certain friends and family read it, so they can give me their thoughts. I'll also be applying for a mentorship program in the fall, and hopefully continue my work on it with them. I want to give this manuscript a real, honest go. I want to give it every ounce of my effort and attention, so that hopefully, I can turn it into something really special. Something worthy of your attention. Stay tuned!
Anyway, to get back on track, since writing the rough draft of my book in June, I've been editing it on my own and now editing it with David. He's been fantastic, and with his guidance I've uncovered certain plot holes and character flaws that I'm now correcting. And the truth is, this project is one that I'm really excited about. This isn't the first book I've written, but it is the first book that I've been really excited about. With this book, I get a stirring inside that whispers, "this could really be something!"
I won't have time to go through the whole book with David before his residency is up, but he has me pointed in the right direction. And when I've finished this wave of editing, I'll be sending it in for a manuscript evaluation service with the Saskatchewan Writer's Guild. And when that's done and I've done even more editing, I'll be letting certain friends and family read it, so they can give me their thoughts. I'll also be applying for a mentorship program in the fall, and hopefully continue my work on it with them. I want to give this manuscript a real, honest go. I want to give it every ounce of my effort and attention, so that hopefully, I can turn it into something really special. Something worthy of your attention. Stay tuned!
Monday, February 11, 2013
Holiday Reading List
One of my favourite things about going on a beach vacation (besides, of course, the beach itself) is the amount of reading I get done. There's no better way to enjoy the sun and the surf than with a really good page turner. I'm low tech, so my bags are always bulging with books. I realize how much more efficient it would be to bring a kindle or e-reader but I just can't give up the weight and texture of a book in my hands. I love it too much, even the smell of it makes me happy. Anyway, since I just got back from Cuba, I thought it would be fun to share with you the best of the books I read while on vacation. I'm always looking for recommendations, so I try to make sure I share mine as well. Here we go!
Punchy, funny and so unique! The story of a pair of sisters with a very strained relationship, brought together when their eighty-four year old father marries a thirty-six year old blonde. I whizzed through this in a day, I just couldn't put it down.
A mysterious murder with a Sherlock twist. Not only was this a great piece of fiction on its own, with great writing, characters and a "killer" story, it made me want to reread all the old Sherlock Holmes stories again. I also recommend you give Arthur Conan Doyle's biography a perusal as well. He was a very interesting man.
I've loved Margaret Atwood ever since I read The Edible Woman but I had yet to read Alias Grace. I couldn't think of a better time and I'm glad I did. It pulled me in from page one, as her work always does. Definitely a must read.
A Short History of Tractors in Ukrainian by Marina Lewycka
Punchy, funny and so unique! The story of a pair of sisters with a very strained relationship, brought together when their eighty-four year old father marries a thirty-six year old blonde. I whizzed through this in a day, I just couldn't put it down.
The Sherlockian by Graham Moore
A mysterious murder with a Sherlock twist. Not only was this a great piece of fiction on its own, with great writing, characters and a "killer" story, it made me want to reread all the old Sherlock Holmes stories again. I also recommend you give Arthur Conan Doyle's biography a perusal as well. He was a very interesting man.
Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke
This was one of the recommendations from Erin Morgernstern. It was whimsical, unique and entertaining. I loved everything about it. This was definitely a favourite.
Alias Grace by Margaret Atwood
I've loved Margaret Atwood ever since I read The Edible Woman but I had yet to read Alias Grace. I couldn't think of a better time and I'm glad I did. It pulled me in from page one, as her work always does. Definitely a must read.
Monday, December 24, 2012
I Made It! (literally)
Well, I'm exhausted, but I did it. As of late last night all our gifts were wrapped and ready to go. I don't think I'm up for another homemade Christmas. Not that I have a problem with homemade gifts, but I'm just not very creative. Or efficient. Tie that in with regular holiday stress and the gas leak we've been dealing with in our fireplace (don't ask), I think I'd rather go the less stressful and work intensive route with a little online shopping ahead of time.
And once Christmas is behind me, the real vacation begins. That's right. I'm off work until January 2nd. Why? Because I have the greatest bosses in the history of mankind. Here's my plan for my time off: sleep, read, repeat. Thanks to a long list of book recommendations from Erin Morgenstern's blog, I have ten books sitting on my dining room table waiting to be read. And so far they've been fantastic. But in the meantime, I'm going to spend some quality time with my family, cuddle my nephew and eat some delicious food. Happy holidays!
And once Christmas is behind me, the real vacation begins. That's right. I'm off work until January 2nd. Why? Because I have the greatest bosses in the history of mankind. Here's my plan for my time off: sleep, read, repeat. Thanks to a long list of book recommendations from Erin Morgenstern's blog, I have ten books sitting on my dining room table waiting to be read. And so far they've been fantastic. But in the meantime, I'm going to spend some quality time with my family, cuddle my nephew and eat some delicious food. Happy holidays!
Monday, December 3, 2012
The Mysterious Benedict Society
When asked what genre I particularly like to read, I never have an answer. Like music, my taste is all over the place. The only distinction I'm concerned with is whether or not its a good story. If it can take me away, I'm happy to let it. Of course, there are a few genres I generally gravitate to, but I've made it a personal rule not to disregard something just because it's in a genre I'm not familiar with or have made assumptions about.
For example, I recently finished The Casual Vacancy by J.K. Rowling. I almost put it down in the beginning. Although the writing was excellent, I didn't find the subject matter compelling. I find politics particularly off putting, which was the basis for the story. Luckily, I didn't. Because once I was a few chapters in, I found myself emerged in the worlds of the characters and I couldn't put it down. It was excellent!
Just this weekend, I read the second novel in a series called The Mysterious Benedict Society. The novels are for children, but the writing, concept and story are just too good to put down. It gathers together four small and uniquely gifted children by the charming Mr. Benedict and sets them on delicious adventures. The characters are fantastic and I find I never know what's going to happen next. They're impossible to predict and I love it! The author, Trenton Lee Stewart, is ridiculously clever. Don't just buy these books for your children, read them yourself! They celebrate talent in all forms, encourage intellectual pursuit and are captivating.
I guess what I'm trying to say is, don't let the genres bog you down. A good story is a good story. There's no sense in missing something wonderful just because of it's label. Break through your barriers and surprise yourself. The world is full of treasures waiting to be found!
For example, I recently finished The Casual Vacancy by J.K. Rowling. I almost put it down in the beginning. Although the writing was excellent, I didn't find the subject matter compelling. I find politics particularly off putting, which was the basis for the story. Luckily, I didn't. Because once I was a few chapters in, I found myself emerged in the worlds of the characters and I couldn't put it down. It was excellent!
Just this weekend, I read the second novel in a series called The Mysterious Benedict Society. The novels are for children, but the writing, concept and story are just too good to put down. It gathers together four small and uniquely gifted children by the charming Mr. Benedict and sets them on delicious adventures. The characters are fantastic and I find I never know what's going to happen next. They're impossible to predict and I love it! The author, Trenton Lee Stewart, is ridiculously clever. Don't just buy these books for your children, read them yourself! They celebrate talent in all forms, encourage intellectual pursuit and are captivating.
I guess what I'm trying to say is, don't let the genres bog you down. A good story is a good story. There's no sense in missing something wonderful just because of it's label. Break through your barriers and surprise yourself. The world is full of treasures waiting to be found!
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Word on the Street
I know you probably looked at the title of this post and thought I was making some kind of slang remark, but I'm not. This past weekend I attended Word on the Street, a literary festival here in Saskatoon. There are lots of cities that have them, and Saskatoon actually only started last year. Sadly, last year I was working and could only sneak out on my lunch break to catch one reading. This year, I had the day off and could spend as much time as I wanted wandering about.
If you've never been to this kind of literary event, they're great. They had tents set up all over the place, with authors giving readings, panel discussions and poetry slams. There were book and magazine sellers set up with booths, fun activities for the kids and music. It was a literary extravaganza! And I had a ball. I took in a reading from author Alice Kuipers, watched a poetry slam and saw a panel discussion featuring Yann Martel discussing his experiences with his book, Life of Pi, being turned into a movie (and got my copy signed). And do you want to know the honest truth? My favorite was the poetry slam.
I've never been one to enjoy poetry. I've written it from time to time, and there are a few poets I like (yeats), but I don't enjoy poetry books. I don't read them. This, I enjoyed. The poets were fantastic speakers. They made me split a gut laughing, almost cry with sorrow and made my heart swell up with happiness. They put on a wonderful show. And if they'd been scheduled for another show, I would have watched it again.
There's something about wandering around a place filled with literature, fellow book lovers and other writers. It's exhilarating and nurturing at the same time. I hope if you hear about an even like this near you, you'll find a way to make an appearance. You'll be glad you did.
If you've never been to this kind of literary event, they're great. They had tents set up all over the place, with authors giving readings, panel discussions and poetry slams. There were book and magazine sellers set up with booths, fun activities for the kids and music. It was a literary extravaganza! And I had a ball. I took in a reading from author Alice Kuipers, watched a poetry slam and saw a panel discussion featuring Yann Martel discussing his experiences with his book, Life of Pi, being turned into a movie (and got my copy signed). And do you want to know the honest truth? My favorite was the poetry slam.
I've never been one to enjoy poetry. I've written it from time to time, and there are a few poets I like (yeats), but I don't enjoy poetry books. I don't read them. This, I enjoyed. The poets were fantastic speakers. They made me split a gut laughing, almost cry with sorrow and made my heart swell up with happiness. They put on a wonderful show. And if they'd been scheduled for another show, I would have watched it again.
There's something about wandering around a place filled with literature, fellow book lovers and other writers. It's exhilarating and nurturing at the same time. I hope if you hear about an even like this near you, you'll find a way to make an appearance. You'll be glad you did.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
My Fall Book List
Well, I hate to say it, but summer's over. Fall has arrived and with it, it brings countless cozy evenings curled up with a book. I did pretty well on my summer reading list (did you?), so I thought I'd make another. Here is my new and improved fall reading list. (And yes, you'll notice I included a few of the summer reads I didn't quite get to).
1. The Casual Vacancy by J.K. Rowling
Mostly it's just curiosity that's got me hankering for this book, but come on! She wrote Harry Potter! You know, you're interested in reading her first attempt at a book for adults. Maybe it'll be good, maybe it'll be awful. You've got to read it to find out!
2. The Time Keeper by Mitch Albom
A book about Father Time? Say no more. I'm already there.
3. Speaking From Among The Bones by Alan Bradley
Another installment in the Flavia De Luce chronicles? Yes, please! Who wouldn't enjoy a story about a young, mystery solving girl obsessed with chemistry and poison? If you guessed no one, you'd be correct.
4. Isis Unbound by Allyson Bird
Maybe it's because it's fall, and there's that certain, slightly spooky chill in the air, but I'm going to try and read a horror. I'm particularly drawn to this one, not just because it's an award winner, but because it's a fresh and creative take on the whole zombie scenario. Of course, I'm sure zombie infested nightmares will follow...
5. Here I Go Again, A Novel by Jen Lancaster
It's true. I have a Jen addiction. Even though sometimes she's mouthy about really dumb stuff (Macey's discontinuing their plus size section, annoying political views...), I still love her where it counts; her writing. I thoroughly enjoyed her first foray into fiction (shaky start, but great once you got into it), so I'm sure her second attempt will be just as enjoyable.
6. Rules of Civility by Amor Towles
Just when you thought I wasn't going to include any books that had anything to do with late 1930's upper society in New York, I went and turned the tables on you. I think this books sounds immensely charming and witty. I can't wait!
7. The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
If the title hasn't already sold you on it, read the synopsis on Amazon. It sounds so wonderful it makes my heart ache.
And the repeats (can't believe I still haven't had a chance to read these ones)....
8. Let's Pretend This Never Happened by Jenny Lawson
9. Off the Menu by Stacey Ballis
10. Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
What novels are you looking forward to reading this fall?
1. The Casual Vacancy by J.K. Rowling
Mostly it's just curiosity that's got me hankering for this book, but come on! She wrote Harry Potter! You know, you're interested in reading her first attempt at a book for adults. Maybe it'll be good, maybe it'll be awful. You've got to read it to find out!
2. The Time Keeper by Mitch Albom
A book about Father Time? Say no more. I'm already there.
3. Speaking From Among The Bones by Alan Bradley
Another installment in the Flavia De Luce chronicles? Yes, please! Who wouldn't enjoy a story about a young, mystery solving girl obsessed with chemistry and poison? If you guessed no one, you'd be correct.
4. Isis Unbound by Allyson Bird
Maybe it's because it's fall, and there's that certain, slightly spooky chill in the air, but I'm going to try and read a horror. I'm particularly drawn to this one, not just because it's an award winner, but because it's a fresh and creative take on the whole zombie scenario. Of course, I'm sure zombie infested nightmares will follow...
5. Here I Go Again, A Novel by Jen Lancaster
It's true. I have a Jen addiction. Even though sometimes she's mouthy about really dumb stuff (Macey's discontinuing their plus size section, annoying political views...), I still love her where it counts; her writing. I thoroughly enjoyed her first foray into fiction (shaky start, but great once you got into it), so I'm sure her second attempt will be just as enjoyable.
6. Rules of Civility by Amor Towles
Just when you thought I wasn't going to include any books that had anything to do with late 1930's upper society in New York, I went and turned the tables on you. I think this books sounds immensely charming and witty. I can't wait!
7. The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
If the title hasn't already sold you on it, read the synopsis on Amazon. It sounds so wonderful it makes my heart ache.
And the repeats (can't believe I still haven't had a chance to read these ones)....
8. Let's Pretend This Never Happened by Jenny Lawson
9. Off the Menu by Stacey Ballis
10. Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
What novels are you looking forward to reading this fall?
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Keep Literature Sacred
There are authors I admire, both for their talent and their business prowess. It's not easy to get published, and it's even harder for that published material to become a success. I will admit to looking at their glossy book covers with just a twinge of envy, hopeful that one day it will be my turn. And then, there are those other books. The ones that make you want scream and pull your hair out.
I'm talking about bestsellers written by celebrities. And not worthwhile celebrities who have a lifetime of unique experiences to share. I'm talking about those trashy autobiographies by celebrities whose only claim to fame is that they're famous. Like Snooki or the Kardashians. Whenever I ask people why they're famous, no one has any idea. And yet they've climbed to the height of fame and are deemed somehow worthy of something that fantastic and evocative writers may never see. And that just pisses me off.
What really irritated me today was when I heard that Justin Bieber will be releasing a second book. Really? A SECOND book? I highly doubt there was enough material to fill the first. He's a child singer with a mushroom cut. What's to know? And yet, it sold millions of copies. And now there will be a sequel. It's enough to make you hang your head and cry.
We live in a society that idolizes celebrity. I know that. But please, I'm begging you, don't let trashy, shallow vessels of fame and fortune pollute something as precious as literature. Becoming a successful author is a long and difficult road, and that's a good thing. It builds character and crafts skill. Handing a contract to trashy celebrities spits in the face of everything books represent. Enough is enough. They can have our television but not our books!
I'm talking about bestsellers written by celebrities. And not worthwhile celebrities who have a lifetime of unique experiences to share. I'm talking about those trashy autobiographies by celebrities whose only claim to fame is that they're famous. Like Snooki or the Kardashians. Whenever I ask people why they're famous, no one has any idea. And yet they've climbed to the height of fame and are deemed somehow worthy of something that fantastic and evocative writers may never see. And that just pisses me off.
What really irritated me today was when I heard that Justin Bieber will be releasing a second book. Really? A SECOND book? I highly doubt there was enough material to fill the first. He's a child singer with a mushroom cut. What's to know? And yet, it sold millions of copies. And now there will be a sequel. It's enough to make you hang your head and cry.
We live in a society that idolizes celebrity. I know that. But please, I'm begging you, don't let trashy, shallow vessels of fame and fortune pollute something as precious as literature. Becoming a successful author is a long and difficult road, and that's a good thing. It builds character and crafts skill. Handing a contract to trashy celebrities spits in the face of everything books represent. Enough is enough. They can have our television but not our books!
Saturday, January 21, 2012
The Birth House
Yesterday I read The Birth House by Ami McKay from cover to cover. And it was ridiculously good. I loved every last bit of it and I have to say, I had the hardest time putting it down. I would read a few chapters, go put in a load of laundry and come right back. When I could force myself to put it down again, I would write for a while, and then I'd get sucked right back in. I just couldn't stay away from it. What a fantastic read.
Ami McKay has a new one out too. It's called The Virgin Cure, and I can't wait to run out and buy it. The depth of research she puts into her work is astounding. She makes everything so real, so accurate; without feeling like you're reading a textbook. Basically, you just feel as though you're there. Her characters are so vivid, so perfectly real. The Birth House was a real work of literary art and I know The Virgin Cure will be too.If you're looking for another good read, for the love of God pick it up!
Ami McKay has a new one out too. It's called The Virgin Cure, and I can't wait to run out and buy it. The depth of research she puts into her work is astounding. She makes everything so real, so accurate; without feeling like you're reading a textbook. Basically, you just feel as though you're there. Her characters are so vivid, so perfectly real. The Birth House was a real work of literary art and I know The Virgin Cure will be too.If you're looking for another good read, for the love of God pick it up!
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Winter Reading
Winter. The weather outside is indeed frightful, and it's true, the fire really is delightful. I'm not the biggest fan of winter, but it has its high points. For one, it's eerily beautiful outside; with thick, foggy steam rising from every available chimney, the entire world blanketed in white. From the warmth of indoors, the frosty exterior is truly lovely to behold. Especially in the morning, when dawn casts everything in a shade of pink and the air is thick with fog.
Yes, winter makes me poetic. Winter has a great many effects on me, from my intense need for sleep and comfort food to my voracious reading habits. Over the past couple of weeks I've gobbled my way through a staggering amount of books. It was only today, when I ran out of books to read and had to make a trip to the bookstore that I realized how many I'd gone through. Santa had been good to me this year in the book department, and having run out after only nineteen days was a little surprising. So, I've decided to give you the highlights of all the best I've read so far this year. Winter is definitely a time for reading, so grab a soft blanket, pull your chair up close to the fire and get ready for some good reads.
The Secret Lives of Dresses by Erin McKean
A girlfriend suggested this one to me, and I'm so glad she did. It was lovely. It tells the story of Dora, a young woman unable to make up her mind on what she wants out of life. When her grandmother (who raised her when her parents died), Mimi, has a stroke, Dora drops everything and drives home to see her. She ends up taking over her grandmother's vintage clothing store while she's in the hospital, and discovers a whole new side to herself when she indulges her grandmother's longest wish - for her to wear vintage. She discovers a whole new side of her grandmother as well, when she finds out that Mimi has been writing stories to go along with the dresses she sells.
It's a wonderful tale, full of the power of vintage and guaranteed to get you perusing vintage shops. Seriously, not long after reading this book I found myself shopping on websites for vintage dresses. There's nothing more enticing than old school glamour.
The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake by Aimee Bender
I'd wanted to read this one for a very long time, so I was extra excited to find it under the tree for me this year. This novel tells the story of Rose, who on her ninth birthday discovers she can taste people's emotions in the food they make. Unfortunately, it has a rather eye opening effect, and Rose discovers that her mother, who seemed happy and content, is actually rather hollow and unfulfilled. Her gift reveals a world of secrets to Rose, secrets she's not so sure she wants to know.
This book was written in a very unique style, with no quotation marks around spoken words. It was a little confusing at times, but gave a nice flow to the story. It was such an interesting idea, I really couldn't put it down. It's the kind of book you'll think about for days afterward. Not to mention, it really makes you hungry for lemon cake with chocolate icing.
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
I first heard about this book while I was competing in NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month). The author had written a pep talk for those competing, in which she described her own trials while working on The Night Circus. She had several mysterious characters doing mysterious things very mysteriously, but it wasn't going anywhere. So, to shake things up, she took all her characters and put them in a circus, just to see what would happen. And what happened was a masterpiece. It is a book so intoxicating to read that you never want it to end. It's so visual and stimulating, so imaginative and fantastical. I really can't say enough good things about this book, but since I refuse to give anything away, I'll have to leave it at that.
Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
Filled with strange and disturbing old photographs, the story itself is just as strange. It tells the story of Jacob, who goes on a search for answers after the horrific death of his grandfather. It turns out that the fantastical tales his grandfather told him about his childhood are true, as are the dark, nightmarish monsters that had hunted him all his life. And those same monsters are now hunting Jacob.
I loved the sheer strangeness of this book, particularly the photos. It was such a creative idea, with a new take on the idea of mutants and strange abilities. I had a really hard time putting this one down.
And there you have it. These are the best of what my winter reading olympics have so far had to offer. I hope they offer you many a comfy and cozy evening of reading, inside by the fire. Spring will come one day, but until then, there's always good books.
Yes, winter makes me poetic. Winter has a great many effects on me, from my intense need for sleep and comfort food to my voracious reading habits. Over the past couple of weeks I've gobbled my way through a staggering amount of books. It was only today, when I ran out of books to read and had to make a trip to the bookstore that I realized how many I'd gone through. Santa had been good to me this year in the book department, and having run out after only nineteen days was a little surprising. So, I've decided to give you the highlights of all the best I've read so far this year. Winter is definitely a time for reading, so grab a soft blanket, pull your chair up close to the fire and get ready for some good reads.
The Secret Lives of Dresses by Erin McKean
A girlfriend suggested this one to me, and I'm so glad she did. It was lovely. It tells the story of Dora, a young woman unable to make up her mind on what she wants out of life. When her grandmother (who raised her when her parents died), Mimi, has a stroke, Dora drops everything and drives home to see her. She ends up taking over her grandmother's vintage clothing store while she's in the hospital, and discovers a whole new side to herself when she indulges her grandmother's longest wish - for her to wear vintage. She discovers a whole new side of her grandmother as well, when she finds out that Mimi has been writing stories to go along with the dresses she sells.
It's a wonderful tale, full of the power of vintage and guaranteed to get you perusing vintage shops. Seriously, not long after reading this book I found myself shopping on websites for vintage dresses. There's nothing more enticing than old school glamour.
The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake by Aimee Bender
I'd wanted to read this one for a very long time, so I was extra excited to find it under the tree for me this year. This novel tells the story of Rose, who on her ninth birthday discovers she can taste people's emotions in the food they make. Unfortunately, it has a rather eye opening effect, and Rose discovers that her mother, who seemed happy and content, is actually rather hollow and unfulfilled. Her gift reveals a world of secrets to Rose, secrets she's not so sure she wants to know.
This book was written in a very unique style, with no quotation marks around spoken words. It was a little confusing at times, but gave a nice flow to the story. It was such an interesting idea, I really couldn't put it down. It's the kind of book you'll think about for days afterward. Not to mention, it really makes you hungry for lemon cake with chocolate icing.
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
I first heard about this book while I was competing in NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month). The author had written a pep talk for those competing, in which she described her own trials while working on The Night Circus. She had several mysterious characters doing mysterious things very mysteriously, but it wasn't going anywhere. So, to shake things up, she took all her characters and put them in a circus, just to see what would happen. And what happened was a masterpiece. It is a book so intoxicating to read that you never want it to end. It's so visual and stimulating, so imaginative and fantastical. I really can't say enough good things about this book, but since I refuse to give anything away, I'll have to leave it at that.
Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
Filled with strange and disturbing old photographs, the story itself is just as strange. It tells the story of Jacob, who goes on a search for answers after the horrific death of his grandfather. It turns out that the fantastical tales his grandfather told him about his childhood are true, as are the dark, nightmarish monsters that had hunted him all his life. And those same monsters are now hunting Jacob.
I loved the sheer strangeness of this book, particularly the photos. It was such a creative idea, with a new take on the idea of mutants and strange abilities. I had a really hard time putting this one down.
And there you have it. These are the best of what my winter reading olympics have so far had to offer. I hope they offer you many a comfy and cozy evening of reading, inside by the fire. Spring will come one day, but until then, there's always good books.
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