Tuesday, August 12, 2014

Top Ten Tuesday: Indecisions



 




TOP BOOKS I'M NOT SURE I WANT TO READ 


To read or not to read, the one question every reader asks themselves before opening a book. Some are too long, too depressing -- or simply not the right book at the right moment. Here are my current indecisions:






Reached by Ally Condie

The last book of a series can't make or break the whole thing. I admit that after reading Crossed, and not being too impressed, this finale scares me.











Betrayed by P.C. Cast

Another series I'm unsure if I should continue.

Milkweed by Jerry Spinelli

Stargirl really got to me -- made me think about the advantages to ignore bullies. But Milkweed deals with jewish kids in Nazi Germany. Sounds a bit too depressing for me to read right now.













Shine by Jeri Smith-Ready

Seriously disliked the sequel Shift. Not sure I want to finish this series.












The Bad Seed by William March

No offense to William, but if this book is an exact replica of the movie, I'd rather keep avoiding it. I have seen the film way too many times to learn anything new.
















Which book topped your list?

Sunday, August 10, 2014

Review: Catching Jordan


Prepare to question your sport prejudices.

Jordan has a lot of pressure to deal with. Her father doesn't approve of her playing football, yet praises his son whenever he does. The good thing is that Jordan now has newcomer Ty's attention, and gets to experience love for the first time. But what exactly is love? Is it the goosebumps you get when he is near you, or the fact that he supports you no matter what? Because if it's the latter, Jordan has got it all wrong. 

The teamwork observed in the book was inspirational. JJ, Carter, and Henry in particular, show Jordan the proper respect any girl should get. Miranda Kenneally's focus on the father/daughter relationship was quite moving, demonstrating the reasons behind Jordan's father disapproval and her struggle to maintain her dreams alive. 

All in all, a beautiful short novel, that makes football sound fun.     


Friday, August 1, 2014

Feature and Follow Friday: Homebound



Parajunkee Alison Can Read


FEATURE & FOLLOW FRIDAY



Once you answer be sure to leave me your link so I can follow you back



Q: What is the biggest city you live near?



I'm proud to say I live in Montreal. Except for a beach (which the city is working on now) there isn't much that we are missing. We have four seasons, hockey, and a charming bilingual community, able to converse with you in French and English wherever you go.



If you do come to Montreal, the Old Port is an absolute must see. You can stroll in the historic port in a horse carriage, catch a play at the Centaur, and then visit the Gothic Notre Dame church. Although, by far, the prettiest Basilica to visit in Montreal remains the Saint Joseph's Oratory.






Tuesday, July 22, 2014

Top Ten Tuesday: Shipwrecked



 




TOP TEN CHARACTERS I'D WANT ON A DESERTED ISLAND  


Once upon a time, my boat crashed on a deserted island. I woke up, not only glad to see I had survived, but that I was not alone. With me was: 





Pi from Life of Pi

He has survivor experience. Most importantly rafting experience. He could teach us how to fish and maintain our bodies with protein.












Jason from Meant to Be

You are probably wondering why I included him? Think about it! The mood will plummet without someone to make us laugh.


Maya from The Rising

As a cougar shape-shifter, her skills can keep us safe. Her knowledge of the woods and plant life is also an asset.













Rose from Vampire Academy

Experienced bodyguard. Love how direct she can be, plus it would be interesting to watch her argument with ...... Jace.












Jace from The Mortal Instruments

Although, he will definitely clash heads with Rose, I think these two would eventually get over it and make a great team.











Thomas from The Maze Runner

Fearless and creative, he could help come up with great plans.

Lola from Lola and the Boy Next Door

She might not have superpowers, but her sense of humor and style is a necessity for me. I truly believe she would make the habitat homey.


Sam from Shiver

He could use this experience to write great songs and play them for us. How can anyone survive without music?!?
Sophie from Hex Hall

A magical being is a must.



Will from Clockwork Angel

How do we get by without electricity? Will Herondale has all the answers. Plus he is brave and handsome.














Who topped your list?

Friday, July 18, 2014

Review: The Book of Broken Hearts



The Vargas brothers share one disorder: commitment phobia. 

They will make you fall in love with them, then leave you heartbroken whether is on prom night or at the altair. No wonder Jude's sisters made her swear to never breathe near one. But ever since the youngest Vargas brother, Emilio, was hired by her dad to fix his beloved bike, Jude is entranced. Emilio seems so caring, so loving toward his family, so reasonable to her father's alzheimer's condition... Maybe it is time to break that oath?

Although the romance in The Book of Broken Hearts is sweet and romantic in a non-cheesy way, the story's background overshadows it. As Jude tries to hold the family together -- whether by ignoring the signs that her dad's condition is deteriorating, or trying to keep peace between her sisters by forbidding her heart to speak of love  -- she makes us remember the importance of family. 

The ending might feel a little rush, but all in all, Ockler gives us a realistic interpretation of growing up with an alzheimer parent.