Mint Tea and A Good Book

Figpop AKA Figment and Inkpop: The Low Down

2012-03-05T04:00:00.000-06:00

I guess it was about a year ago when I discovered a website called inkpop. I thought it was pretty much the coolest thing since sliced bread! A place where teens share their writing, and critique each other's writing? I think that's pretty neat. I was never really one to share my own writing, but I loved reading and critiquing other people's writing.

   I went through phases with inkpop. Sometimes I would go on it a lot, and sometimes I would go without it for a couple of months. I guess I sort of stopped using it at the beginning-ish of this school year. Maybe October or so. Between school, this blog, and everything else going on in my life I just sort of didn't have time for it anymore.

   Another day, some time last year, I discovered a website called figment. I preferred inkpop over figment, but I occasionally liked to participate in live author chats via figment.
   However, at the beginning of the year, I got an email from Figment (I've been subscribed to their newsletter for a while). The email had the usual: contests going on (figment has some cool contests!), top stories, yadda yadda yadda, and then I got to the bottom of the post where it said something along the lines of: Was writing everyday your goal for 2012? Sign up for Figment Daily Themes delivered straight to your inbox!
   So of course, I thought that was pretty cool, so I signed up. And every weekday I get the daily writing prompts delivered to my email. I get behind some weeks, or I'll skip a day if the prompt is something I don't have the time for that day. But overall, I LOVE the prompts, and I'm sad that they'll be ending at the end of this month.

   And something else big is happening this month- Figment and Inkpop are merging! I'm fine with this! I think- the more awesome, the better! I kind of want to call it Figpop, Finkpop, or Inkment. It's exciting!
   However, there are quite a few inkies (apparently that's what people who loved inkpop are called) who are quite against this transition. Like, really, really worked up about it. One comment on Inkpop read: “HC {Harper Collins}, you have hosted the future of writing on Inkpop. The NYT best-sellers and the next Tolkiens and J.K. Rowlings, and you have let them down.”
   I see their views- the two sites were very different. I mean, they were both mainly focused at teens, but I don't know. Just, they both had different atmospheres. Inkpop was around a year older than Figment, so it seemed a little bit more developed. There were actually books published from Inkpop. Books as big as Carrier of the Mark by Leigh Fallon. So Inkpop was definitely an established site.

   Why am I posting about this? Well, a couple of people asked if since I was a teen, I used either of these sites and what I thought about them merging.
   My answer: I've never used either of them as much as some people do. I've liked both of them and the idea of them merging doesn't really bother me that much. It's a little bit odd to me that HarperCollins sold Inkpop to Figment, because it seemed like it was doing so well, but then again, that's the sort of thing I'm often oblivious to.
   I think that both sights were/are fantastic. Any place where (mainly) teenagers feel comfortable sharing their writing and getting feedback really is amazing. But in the end I guess it really comes down to your personal preference. I hope the Figs and Inkies will be able to bond with their writing because that would be awesome! But it's not up to me. You can read more about HarperCollins selling Inkpop, etc here.

   What are your thoughts on the Figpop merge? Have another writing sight that you like to use? Let me know in the comments. ;)

In My (Overflowing) Mailbox (43)

2012-03-04T04:00:00.000-06:00

"In My Mailbox" is a weekly feature hosted by the super fabulous, Kristi at The Story Siren. "IMM" is a way to share thoughts on the books you've received throughout the week with readers. To read more about "In My Malbox," click here.

The mailbox is pretty full this week. In fact, I think it might be exploding just the tiniest bit. ;)

1. Clean by Amy Reed- I've heard lot's of people say that Amy Reed's first book was pretty awful, but that this one is pretty good. The synopsis sounds interesting enough, and I like the cover, so I'm excited to try this one!

2. How To Save a Life by Sara Zarr- I've heard great things about all of Sara Zarr's books, but I have yet to read one, so I thought I'd try her most latest which I think looks fabulous! Plus, I think I'll be meeting Sara Zarr is April! :)

3. Don't You Wish by Roxanne St. Clair (ARC)- This is certainly one of my most anticipated books of 2012! It looks different than your typical YA novel (time travel!) and I know that Farrah from I Eat Words thought that it was really cute. Thank you, Random House (Delacorte) for sending this one!

4. One Year in Coal Harbor by Polly Horvath (ARC)- In Elementary School, one book that I really remember loving was Everything On A Waffle by Polly Horvath. So I was so glad to see that she was writing another book! Thank you, Random House for sending this one!

5. Lies Beneath by Anne Greenwood Brown (ARC)- There seems to be a pretty big hype surrounding this 2012 debut (Yay!), and I must say, the synopsis is very intriguing. Killer mermaids? I just hope it's not too creepy. Thank you, Random House (Delacorte) for this one. :)

6. Jersey Angel by Beth Ann Bauman (ARC)- I think this one is supposed to be anti-Jersey Shore. That's what I heard, but don't quote me on that. ;) People on Goodreads seem to be fond of this one, so we'll see what it brings. Thank you, Random House for sending it. :)

7. Addison Blakely: Confessions of a PK by Betset St. Amant- PK apparently stands for "Preacher's Kid." I haven't heard much about this one, even though it came out in January, but it looks really good so I'm excited to read it! Thank you to Barbour Publishing for this one. :)

8. Torn by Stephanie Guerra (ARC) - I've seen some buzz surrounding this book as well, and the synopsis of this book makes it sound very "realistic." The cover-girl really annoys me on this one because she looks far too perfect. But despite the cover I'm certainly looking forward to reading Torn. Thank you Marshall Cavendish for sending it! :)

9. Something Like Normal by Trish Doller (ARC)- Yay! A debut author! This is another book with a ton of hype, especially for a contemporary! I've heard nothing but fabulous about it and can't wait to start it (hopefully soon!). Thank you to Bloomsbury for sending this one!

Ok, let me stop to catch my breath here. This list is getting long!

10. Unbreak My Heart by Melissa C. Walker (ARC)- Ok, so I've never actually read anything by Melissa Walker, but people seem to love her books and I actually met her last year, and she was super sweet! And this book looks really cute. Thanks again to Bloomsbury for sending this one. :)

11. Red: The Next Generation of American Writers--Teenage Girls--On What Fires Up Their Lives Today by Various Authors (edited by Amy Goldwasser)- I love this book! I love how realistic some of the stories are, I love how it makes me laugh and cry, and how it makes me thankful for myself. And so once again, I checked it out from the library. For some reason the library has like 5 copies of it, and I was really happy to see 3 of the 5 copies checked out!

That's all for In My (Overflowing) Mailbox this week! Thanks to all the publishers who've sent books the past week or two- I'm completely flattered! Fee free to leave links to your In My Mailbox posts in the comments section.

Literary Longing: Spring 2012

2012-03-03T05:00:00.000-06:00

There are so many great books coming out this Spring that I thought I just had to do a post on some of the ones that are making me dance around the house with excitement. (yes, I am that girl dancing around the house over a book release) Without further ado! Literary Longing: Spring 2012! (all synopsyses from Goodreads)

Books Coming Out this Spring that I Can't Wait to Fall in Love With

Second Chance Summer by Morgan Matson (May 8th, 2012)

Taylor’s family might not be the closest-knit – everyone is a little too busy and overscheduled – but for the most part, they get along fine. Then they get news that changes everything: Her father has pancreatic cancer, and it’s stage four – meaning that there is basically nothing to be done. Her parents decide that the family will spend his last months together at their old summerhouse in the Pocono Mountains.

Crammed into a place much smaller and more rustic than they are used to, they begin to get to know each other again. And Taylor discovers that the people she thought she had left behind haven’t actually gone anywhere. Her former summer best friend is suddenly around, as is her first boyfriend. . . and he’s much cuter at seventeen than he was at twelve.

As the summer progresses, the Edwards become more of a family, and closer than they’ve ever been before. But all of them very aware that they’re battling a ticking clock. Sometimes, though, there is just enough time to get a second chance – with family, with friends, and with love.

This sounds like it's going to be a tear-jerker, but that's okay! It's also going to be long, nearly 500 pages, but I'm sure Morgan Matson will keep us entertained. If you've read Amy and Roger's Epic Detour, then you know what a fabulous writer, Morgan Matson is! Can't wait for this one in May!

Shine by Jeri Smith-Ready (May 1st, 2012)

No other love has burned so bright

Life can change in an instant, and no one understands that better than Aura. It’s been almost a year since her boyfriend tragically died. She’s finally letting go of Logan’s violet-hued ghost, but not her search to uncover the truth about her past. As the first in a generation that can see ghosts, Aura is convinced that she has a connection to the Shift. She’s trusted Zachary, ever patient and ever by her side, with all that she knows. But when the government threatens his life in an attempt to learn Aura’s secrets, she will stop at nothing to protect herself and the one she loves...even if that means betraying her own heart.

I never thought I would like this series as much as I did, but well, this is a really great series. The characters, the plot line, it's all very intriguing. Plus, Mint Tea & A Good Book is going to be in the acknowledgments of this one! EEP!

Breaking Beautiful by Jennifer Shaw Wolf (April 24th, 2012)

Allie is overwhelmed after her boyfriend, Trip, dies in a car accident, leaving her scarred and unable to recall what happened that night. But she feels she must uncover the truth, even if it could hurt the people who tried to save her from Trip's abuse.

I've heard really good things about this one and I'm excited to read it! I also think the cover is amazing. I love the little pop of red from the shoes, and the ocean, and the trees, and how the word, Breaking, is broken. Can't wait for Breaking Beautiful!

Welcome Caller, This Is Chloe by Shelley Coriell (May 1st, 2012)

Big-hearted Chloe Camden is the queen of her universe until her best friend shreds her reputation and her school counselor axes her junior independent study project. Chloe is forced to take on a meaningful project in order to pass, and so she joins her school's struggling radio station, where the other students don't find her too queenly. Ostracized by her former BFs and struggling with her beloved Grams's mental deterioration, lonely Chloe ends up hosting a call-in show that gets the station much-needed publicity and, in the end, trouble. She also befriends radio techie and loner Duncan Moore, a quiet soul with a romantic heart. On and off the air, Chloe faces her loneliness and helps others find the fun and joy in everyday life. Readers will fall in love with Chloe as she falls in love with the radio station and the misfits who call it home.

So many good books coming out it May!! I have this one sitting in my bedroom right now and hopefully I'll get to it soon! Looks like it's going to be a good one. And, Yay! 2012 Debut Author!

The Selection by Keira Cass (April 24th, 2012)

For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in the palace and compete for the heart of the gorgeous Prince Maxon.

But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.

Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she's made for herself- and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined.

I can't wait for the selection. Sounds kind of like a mix of Hunger Games, Wither, and the Bachelorette with it's own little twist. This book has definitely received a lot of hype, and I'd say it's one of the most anticipated books of Spring 2012. By the way, that dress is lovely.

The Girl Who Could Silence the Wind by Meg Medina (March 13th)

Sonia's entire village believes she has a gift, but it's only in leaving home that she finds out who she truly is. A compelling tale from a rich new voice in young adult fiction.

Sixteen-year-old Sonia Ocampo was born on the night of the worst storm Tres Montes had ever seen. And when the winds mercifully stopped, an unshakable belief in the girl's protective powers began. All her life, Sonia has been asked to pray for sick mothers or missing sons, as worried parents and friends press silver milagros in her hands. Sonia knows she has no special powers, but how can she disappoint those who look to her for solace? Still, her conscience is heavy, so when she gets a chance to travel to the city and work in the home of a wealthy woman, she seizes it. At first, Sonia feels freedom in being treated like all the other girls. But when news arrives that her beloved brother has disappeared while looking for work, she learns to her sorrow that she can never truly leave the past or her family behind. With deeply realized characters, a keen sense of place, a hint of magical realism, and a flush of young romance, Meg Medina tells the tale of a strongwilled, warmhearted girl who dares to face life's harsh truths as she finds her real power.

This one just looks really different than your typical Young Adult novel. I read the other day that Meg Medina has written a couple other novels, all with a sort of hispanic aspect to them. Should be an interesting one!

Out of Sight, Out of Time by Ally Carter (March 13th)

The last thing Cammie Morgan remembers is leaving the Gallagher Academy to protect her friends and family from the Circle of Cavan--an ancient terrorist organization that has been hunting her for over a year. But when Cammie wakes up in an alpine convent and discovers months have passed, she must face the fact that her memory is now a black hole. The only traces left of Cammie’s summer vacation are the bruises on her body and the dirt under her nails, and all she wants is to go home.

Once she returns to school, however, Cammie realizes that even the Gallagher Academy now holds more questions than answers. Cammie, her friends, and mysterious spy-guy Zach must face their most difficult challenge yet as they travel to the other side of the world, hoping to piece together the clues that Cammie left behind. It’s a race against time. The Circle is hot on their trail and willing stop at nothing to prevent Cammie from remembering what she did last summer.

EEP! I'd say Ally Carter's books are really what opened me up to YA literature. I have so much respect for Ally Carter and her great writing and am beyond thrilled to see this series continue so that I can continue to read juicy Gallagher Girl stories. ;)

In Honor by Jessi Kirby (May 8th 2012)

Honor receives her brother's last letter from Iraq three days after learning that he died, and opens it the day his fellow Marines lay the flag over his casket. Its contents are a complete shock: concert tickets to see Kyra Kelly, her favorite pop star and Finn's celebrity crush. In his letter, he jokingly charged Honor with the task of telling Kyra Kelly that he was in love with her.

Grief-stricken and determined to grant Finn's last request, she rushes to leave immediately. But she only gets as far as the driveway before running into Rusty, Finn's best friend since third grade and his polar opposite. She hasn't seen him in ages, thanks to a falling out between the two guys, but Rusty is much the same as Honor remembers him: arrogant, stubborn. . . and ruggedly good looking. Neither one is what the other would ever look for in a road trip partner, but the two of them set off together, on a voyage that makes sense only because it doesn't. Along the way, they find small and sometimes surprising ways to ease their shared loss and honor Finn--but when shocking truths are revealed at the end of the road, will either of them be able to cope with the consequences?

I've heard nothing but fabulous things about Jessi Kirby's writing. People seemed to love her debut last year, Moonglass, and people are raving about her new book, In Honor. Another one that sounds very sad, but also like it will be a great road trip book.

Insurgent by Veronica Roth (May 1st, 2012)

One choice can transform you—or it can destroy you. But every choice has consequences, and as unrest surges in the factions all around her, Tris Prior must continue trying to save those she loves—and herself—while grappling with haunting questions of grief and forgiveness, identity and loyalty, politics and love.

Tris's initiation day should have been marked by celebration and victory with her chosen faction; instead, the day ended with unspeakable horrors. War now looms as conflict between the factions and their ideologies grows. And in times of war, sides must be chosen, secrets will emerge, and choices will become even more irrevocable—and even more powerful. Transformed by her own decisions but also by haunting grief and guilt, radical new discoveries, and shifting relationships, Tris must fully embrace her Divergence, even if she does not know what she may lose by doing so.

New York Times bestselling author Veronica Roth's much-anticipated second book of the dystopian Divergent series is another intoxicating thrill ride of a story, rich with hallmark twists, heartbreaks, romance, and powerful insights about human nature.

The second book! *is mesmerized by cover.* And I will be at TLA in April, so I will hopefully be meeting the super fabulous Veronica Roth for the second time AND maybe, maybe, maybe, might, get an ARC of Insurgent while I'm there. EEP!

Unbreak My Heart by Melissa Walker (May 22nd)

Sophomore year broke Clementine Williams’ heart. She fell for her best friend’s boyfriend and long story short: he’s excused, but Clem is vilified and she heads into summer with zero social life.

Enter her parents’ plan to spend the summer on their sailboat. Normally the idea of being stuck on a tiny boat with her parents and little sister would make Clem break out in hives, but floating away sounds pretty good right now.

Then she meets James at one of their first stops along the river. He and his dad are sailing for the summer and he’s just the distraction Clem needs. Can he break down Clem’s walls and heal her broken heart?

Told in alternating chapters that chronicle the year that broke Clem’s heart and the summer that healed it, Unbreak My Heart is a wonderful dual love story that fans of Sarah Dessen, Deb Caletti, and Susane Colasanti will flock to.

I've never actually read anything by Melissa Walker before, although I did hear her speak once, and I've been wanting to read Small Town Sinners. I like, contemporary YA, but usually ones with giant pink hearts on the cover are a bit much for me. However, the boat aspect really draws me in and I think this one will be a great summer read!

Books Coming Out this Spring that I've Already Fallen In Love With

Freshman Year and Other Unnatural Disasters by Meredith Zeitlin (March 1st, 2012)

Kelsey Finkelstein is fourteen and FRUSTRATED. Every time she tries to live up to her awesome potential, her plans are foiled – by her impossible parents, her annoying little sister, and life in general. But with her first day of high school coming up, Kelsey is positive that things are going to change. Enlisting the help of her three best friends — sweet and quiet Em, theatrical Cass, and wild JoJo — Kelsey gets ready to rebrand herself and make the kind of mark she knows is her destiny.

Things start out great - her arch-nemesis has moved across the country, giving Kelsey the perfect opportunity to stand out on the soccer team and finally catch the eye of her long-time crush. But soon enough, an evil junior’s thirst for revenge, a mysterious photographer, and a series of other catastrophes make it clear that just because KELSEY has a plan for greatness… it doesn’t mean the rest of the world is in on it.

Kelsey’s hilarious commentary throughout her disastrous freshman year will have you laughing out loud—while being thankful that you’re not in her shoes, of course…

Kelsey Finklestein is one of the most hilarious female characters I have ever read. She is such an great character and she totally makes this book! Along with Meredith Zeitlin's realistic dialogue, relationships, issues, hilarity and Kelsey's inner thoughts. Love this one! Go buy it, right now!

Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard (March 13th)

It all begins with a stupid question:
Are you a Global Vagabond?

No, but 18-year-old Bria Sandoval wants to be. In a quest for independence, her neglected art, and no-strings-attached hookups, she signs up for a guided tour of Central America—the wrong one. Middle-aged tourists with fanny packs are hardly the key to self-rediscovery. When Bria meets Rowan, devoted backpacker and dive instructor, and his outspokenly humanitarian sister Starling, she seizes the chance to ditch her group and join them off the beaten path.

Bria's a good girl trying to go bad. Rowan's a bad boy trying to stay good. As they travel across a panorama of Mayan villages, remote Belizean islands, and hostels plagued with jungle beasties, they discover what they've got in common: both seek to leave behind the old versions of themselves. And the secret to escaping the past, Rowan’s found, is to keep moving forward.

But Bria comes to realize she can't run forever, no matter what Rowan says. If she ever wants the courage to fall for someone worthwhile, she has to start looking back.

Kirsten Hubbard lends her artistry to this ultimate backpacker novel, weaving her drawings into the text. Her career as a travel writer and her experiences as a real-life vagabond backpacking Central America are deeply seeded in this inspiring story.

This book is so good! I feel like Kirsten Hubbard is really writing about something she's experienced, and loved. It's like you feel a little part of her life in this book. Along with those lovely drawings! A round of applause to Kirsten Hubbard! And another one that you should go buy when it comes out!

The Book Thief: A Review In Pieces

2012-03-02T00:00:00.000-06:00

Title: The Book Thief
Author: Markus Zusak
Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers
Release Date: March 14, 2006

Goodreads Synopsis:

It’s just a small story really, about among other things: a girl, some words, an accordionist, some fanatical Germans, a Jewish fist-fighter, and quite a lot of thievery. . . .

Set during World War II in Germany, Markus Zusak’s groundbreaking new novel is the story of Liesel Meminger, a foster girl living outside of Munich. Liesel scratches out a meager existence for herself by stealing when she encounters something she can’t resist–books. With the help of her accordion-playing foster father, she learns to read and shares her stolen books with her neighbors during bombing raids as well as with the Jewish man hidden in her basement before he is marched to Dachau.

This is an unforgettable story about the ability of books to feed the soul.

A Rather Long Review for A Rather Long (and Spectacular) Book:

Thought Snapshot: A well deserved recipient of infinite awards, The Book Thief is extraordinary in a way that only few books are. It contains amazing writing, an interesting format, and a unique perspective. After hearing the title of this novel float around for about three years, I finally picked this read up and am thankful I did.

In honor of Liesel

Point Of View: This novel is in the perspective of Death. Don't let this bit of information scare you off! At first I thought that a story told by Death seemed daunting (and morbid), but other than a couple of moments when Death talks about carrying souls away, Death's narration seemed somewhat normal. Frequently, Death would make little side notes in bold. This definitely made reading unique and different from other books.

Liesel: The main character in this novel is a young girl named Liesel. I loved Liesel’s courage, curiosity, and overall personality (it was very admirable!). Liesel's immense passion and love of books automatically made me love her and respect her. If the title wasn't obvious enough, Liesel has to steal books to read them. I take advantage of having a multitude of books around me, and this book made appreciate my infinite resources, and my freedom to read what I want.

Plot: The Book Thief has minor plots scattered throughout the novel, but overall it is a series of events about a young girl growing up in Nazi Germany (somewhat like a journal). I didn't necessarily find one question that kept me anxiously reading, but this book did a spectacular job of keeping me intrigued from the first page until the end.

Last Thoughts: Most of the books I have read about World War II are told from the perspective of a person in a Concentration camp, or a Jew/prisoner hiding. I find these books fascinating, but I also found it neat to read about the life of a blonde-haired, blue-eyed child living in Nazi Germany.

If you’re itching for a book off the beaten path , I recommend you read The Book Thief! Lebewohl.

Why March is Going to Rock Your Socks Off!

2012-03-01T02:00:00.000-06:00

Wow! Can you guys believe that tomorrow it will already be March? I feel like January and February just sort of flew by, but at the same time, it feels like such a long time ago.
March is my favorite month of the year for a couple reasons. First, my birthday is in March, (Huzzah!) and second, well, you'll have to read the rest of the post to find out. So we have some fun things planned for Mint Tea and A Good Book in March, and I'll also mention some random happenings this month. Now let's see what March will bring...

Birthdays! Ta Da! Erin and I happen to have the same birthday (March 9th), and we were born in the same hour, in the same city. Yes, it's very odd, but also awesome that we get to share a birthday! (cough, cough, you can see my bookish wishlist here, cough) We also share a birthday with Barbie, but I don't even understand why Barbie needs a birthday in the first place. ;) And there will be a fun birthday post come the 9th.

Book Releases! There are some fabulous books coming out in March! One of my most anticipated releases this year is Out of Sight, Out of Time by Ally Carter. This is the 5th (!!) installment of the Gallagher Girl Series, of what is to be 6 books. The fourth GG book came out in June of 2009, so it's been nearly 3 years! I'm definitely excited for this one! Other books to check out coming out this March: Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard and Freshman Year & Other Unnatural Disasters by Meredith Zeitlin. Both are spectacular!!

The Hunger Games Movie! EEP! Being a teenager means I am constantly surrounded by other teenagers ;) and I can honestly say that the school halls are A BUZZ with the Hunger Games movie! Everyone is so excited! Especially because our whole grade level is going together to see it. (I think I might also be attending a Hunger Games themed birthday party later this month) We are going to have a full post on this topic in the near future. :)

The Weather! As I sort of mentioned earlier, March is my absolute favorite month, in part with the lovely weather! It's not too hot, it's not too cold, and the wildflowers start to bloom! From about March to early June, our backyard explodes with this stunning, incredibly diverse mass of wildflowers! It's so pretty and perfect for reading outside. ;)

Spring Break! I love, love, love Spring Break! I love how right in the middle of the semester, Spring Break sort of sweeps me off my feet and cradles me in it's arms. The weather usually cooperates which I love! Plus, this year, during Spring Break I am doing nothing! Of course, technically I'll be doing something, but I think it's going to be a nice, chill break from school which has been a bit hectic lately.

So, what are you looking forward to in March? Is there anything I left out? I hope everyone had a fabulous leap day (I think leap days are just the neatest things!) and let me know any March-iness in the comments. :)

Top Ten Tuesday: La Di Da! Theme Songs!

2012-02-28T00:00:00.011-06:00

Top Ten Tuesday is a feature hosted by The Broke and the Bookish. Each week The Broke and The Bookish posts a topic and lists their Top Ten things that fall under that category. Top Ten Tuesday is a great way to learn more about your favorite bloggers and discover new blogs and books as well! To learn more about Top Ten Tuesday and see the topics, click here.

And this week's topic is (la la la la)....

Top Ten Books I'd Give A Theme Song To....

1. The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall: I frequently mention this cute middle grade novel about 4 sisters and their adventures throughout the summer. The theme song I would place with this novel is "Our Last Summer" by ABBA. This sweet, and adorable song describes an adventurous summer which is just like this book that I adore.

This is the Mamma Mia version of "Our Last Summer"

2. The Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling: For some strange reason 42 by Coldplay reminds me of the Harry Potter Series (especially the calm part of the song). Every book has a certain vibe and this song gives me the same feeling that I got when I read Harry Potter.

3. The Help by Kathryn Stockett: The song I chose for this particular book is Ready To Run by the Dixie Chicks. This song has a strong Southern feel to it just like the Help. The to the song's story is similar to Skeeter's story (Skeeter is a main character.)

Sorry for the poor quality!

4. Paper Towns by John Green: Although the song I am choosing doesn't necessarily fit the vibe of this book, the lyrics relate to it. I chose Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield for this book. A lyric in this song is: I am unwritten, can't read my mind, I'm undefined

I'm just beginning, the pen's in my hand, ending unplanned

Staring at the blank page before you
Open up the dirty window....

Credit to http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/natashabedingfield/unwritten.html for the lyrics.

This line practically defines one of the main characters, Margo Roth Spiegleman.

5. My Life Undecided by Jessica Brody: This books is about a girl who just wants to have fun, but her innocent choices end up leading to a bad outcome. Girls Just Want to Have Fun by Cindy Lauper is such a carefree and light song, so it is perfect for this outgoing, contemporary novel.

Warning- you may have to stop reading this post in order to take part in some serious dancing.

1. Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins- We cannot not have french music to accompany Anna et le Bisou Français! I'm a big fan of french music. I find it simply magnifique and very elegant. Plus, a lot of French Albums have intermission songs! Isn't that like the coolest thing in the world!? (Ok, I may be a little bias considering I take French) I think that the artist, Couer de Pirate really fits the whole mood of Anna. Especially Berceuse which is "Lullaby" in English.

2. The Fault In Our Stars by John Green- This is a difficult one, because there are so many different moods in this book. I think this book is sort of a love story. Ok, yes, it is a love story, among many other things. And one of my favorite movies is also a love story among many other things. And that movie is Juno! The song I chose is "Anyone Else But You," from Juno! It's a very monotone song, and they aren't really good singers or anything, but I think that's sort of the point of the song.

3. Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins- I'm finding this really difficult- to pinpoint just one song for an entire book. For Lola and the Boy Next Door, focusing mainly on the Cricket-Lola romantic awesomeness, I chose (mainly the beginning of) Can't Help Falling In Love by Ingrid Michaelson because I think it's a cute song and the lyrics sort of match the book. ;)

4. Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer- Well, this book is filled with so much emotion, it was difficult to find just one song. And, I thought that this song, Leave the Light On by Priscilla Ahn, sort of reminded me of Oskar's relationship with his mom. How he sort of thinks he doesn't need her, and is mean to her, but he actually needs her and loves her. Plus, I think that the lyrics really fit really well.

5. The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han- I think, even though this one has some sad themes, overall, it's a pretty warm, good feeling sort of book. I chose 1-2-3-4 by Feist because a) I think it's a pretty great (and warm) song b) I think it really represents being in love and being a teen, c) I think the chorus ties in nicely with the overall theme of the book.

Freshman Year and Other Unnatural Disasters by Meredith Zeitlin

2012-02-27T06:00:00.000-06:00

Title: Freshman Year & Other Unnatural Disasters | Goodreads
Author: Meredith Zeitlin
Publisher: G.P. Putnam's Sons
Release Date: March 1st, 2012
Challenge: 2012 Debut Authors Challenge

Synopsis (from Goodreads)-

Kelsey Finkelstein is fourteen and FRUSTRATED. Every time she tries to live up to her awesome potential, her plans are foiled – by her impossible parents, her annoying little sister, and life in general. But with her first day of high school coming up, Kelsey is positive that things are going to change. Enlisting the help of her three best friends — sweet and quiet Em, theatrical Cass, and wild JoJo — Kelsey gets ready to rebrand herself and make the kind of mark she knows is her destiny.

Things start out great - her arch-nemesis has moved across the country, giving Kelsey the perfect opportunity to stand out on the soccer team and finally catch the eye of her long-time crush. But soon enough, an evil junior’s thirst for revenge, a mysterious photographer, and a series of other catastrophes make it clear that just because KELSEY has a plan for greatness… it doesn’t mean the rest of the world is in on it.

Kelsey’s hilarious commentary throughout her disastrous freshman year will have you laughing out loud—while being thankful that you’re not in her shoes, of course…

My Thoughts

I had been looking forward to this one for a while. (debut author named Meredith, cute contemp- score!) And I was sick the other day and got around to reading this one (thank you Putnam for sending it!) I was in the mood for something fluffy and picked this one up expecting a cute contemporary. And oh my goodness- it exceeded my expectations. I was drawn in from page one (I love it when that happens!) and loved it so much I stayed up wee into the hours finishing it. Kelsey's humor and awesomeness, the hilarious plot line, the other character (Kelsey's family and friends), the New York setting that made me envious: it all tugged me further and further, deeper into this book.

Kelsey made this book. She is one of (if not the) best teenage girl characters I've read all year. She was so sarcastic, hilarious, adorable, solid and such a realistic character. She could have been annoying, but I think Meredith Zeitlin wrote her perfectly! Without Kelsey, this book would have been ok, but Kelsey completely makes it! Kelsey's friends are great characters as well, and I couldn't help but compare myself to them. (I think I'm a mix between Kelsey and Em) My one thing with them- I got them the tinsiest bit confused the first couple chapters. Although, that's probably just me. ;)

The Finklestein's were also hilarious. Kelsey's younger sister really reminded me of my younger sister and her parents cracked me up. Especially Kelsey's relationship with her mom. Kelsey referring to her mother as "born in 1901" and "back when mom was a kid, 397 years ago," made me laugh every time. The humor in this book was brilliant and realistic. The whole theatre situation was so funny I had to put the book down for a moment because I was laughing so hard.

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The New York setting definitely made me envious and also reminded me a lot of my mom. (who grew up in Brooklyn and went to school in Manhattan just like Kelsey) Kelsey kept going places and I would always be like "how is she getting there alone? She can't drive" and then I would remember the subway! I mean, usually I enjoy light, fluffy reads, but not nearly as much as I enjoyed Freshman Year & Other Unnatural Disasters. Something that I think really sets this apart from other books- the unnatural disasters. They were like these little themes and stories within a main plot and overall theme, which really keeps the reader interested and entertained throughout the whole book. There is not a single dull moment which is something that teens seem to love!

Freshman Year & Other Unnatural Disasters by Meredith Zeitlin is a great book for anyone looking for a fun read. You will fall in love with Kelsey Finklestein and the hilarious disasters known as her life. And I look forward to more of the impressive, Meredith Zeitlin! (who happens to have the best first name on this planet) To learn more about Kelsey Finklestein or Meredith Zietlin, and see the book trailer, go to kelseyfinklestein.com.

In My Mailbox (er... In My Nook) (42)

2012-02-26T04:00:00.000-06:00

"In My Mailbox" is a weekly feature hosted by the super fabulous, Kristi at The Story Siren. "IMM" is a way to share thoughts on the books you've received throughout the week with readers. To read more about "In My Malbox," click here.

I've been experimenting around with NetGalley (aka- ARC's in e-book format for book reviewers from publishers). It's a bit confusing for me right now and is certainly not nearly as satisfying as receiving an actual book in the mail. But it'll be alright. ;)

1. Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard (ARC)- I enjoyed Kirsten Hubbard's debut, Like Mandarin and I was so happy when I saw this one on NetGalley! I started reading it yesterday (I just couldn't resist) and so far I AM IN LOVE! I love the setting (Guatemala), and the characters, and the plot line! I hope this one continues to be just as fabulous as I keep reading.

2. Me, Earl, and the Dying Girl by Jesse Andrews (ARC) - Ok, so this one may have a slight TFiOS aspect to it, but I didn't even know that when I requested it. I've heard that it's very good, hilarious, but also extremely sad (the girl has leukemia) Excited to read it!

That's all I received In My Mailbox (err... in my Nook) this week! Feel free to link to your In My Mailbox posts in zee comments section of this post.

Feb Book of the Month: How To Rock Braces & Glasses

2012-02-25T04:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to Mint Tea & A Good Book's February Book of the Month! This month's book was the recently adapted to television, How to Rock Braces and Glasses by Meg Haston.

Title: How to Rock Braces and Glasses
Author: Meg Haston
Publisher: Poppy (Little, Brown)
Release Date: October 24th, 2011

Synopsis (from Goodreads)-

In the story, an eighth-grade Queen Bee, after finding herself dropped into Loserland, realizes that it’s time to reap the bad karma she’s sown.
Gorgeous, uber-harsh, and uber-stylish, Kacey Simon is the undisputed social dictator of Marquette Middle School. That is, until an eye infection and a visit to the dentist leave her with coke-bottle glasses, a mouth full of metal, and... a littttthsp! Dissed and dismissed by her popular friends, Kacey is forced to hang out with a boy who wears skinny jeans and jams in his own band. But as she adjusts to life as a loser, she's surprised to find that Skinny Jeans is kind of hot and his band is pretty cool. Suddenly, hitting rock-bottom feels oddly uplifting. Could rocking braces and glasses be the best thing to ever happen to her?

In this hilarious reversal of the cool crowd versus the nerd herd, a popular girl finds herself in Loserville and realizes it's about time she paid back all the bad karma she built up as Queen Bee.

My Thoughts

If you're looking for a nice, fluffy, mindless read, I highly recommend How To Rock Braces and Glasses by Meg Haston. Definitely is not one of those high stress, tear bomb explosion (cough, cough, The Fault in Our Stars) sorts of books.

The plotline of How to Rock is in it's own realm. Usually it's "nerd girl wants to be popular, but once she's popular she realizes she doesn't like it, blah, blah, blah." In this one, it's the uber popular girl falls off the top of the popularity latter all the way down to the sweaty nerd pit.

The main character, Kacey Simon, is mean. I could not stand her for the first half of the book. But somehow, Meg Haston is a good enough writer to sort of make the reader hate Kacey, but still not completely annoyed with her to the point where the book was completely obnoxious. Well done there, Meg Haston!

I don't really think How to Rock Braces and Glasses was written to be realistic (I do not mean that in a bad way). I mean lets face it, if the super prep queen bee got braces and glasses, and ok, maybe got a lisp, she wouldn't become completely "socially unacceptable." But also, keep in mind, this is a fluffy one and despite the name "realistic fiction," contemps are not always absolutely realistic.

A novel, I think I would dub "middle grade," How to Rock Braces and Glasses is a light read that I think will really appeal to lots of middle school girls, whether they be "nerdy" or "popular." Kacey's story is one of Karma (being mean will return to stab you in the back) and friendship.

TGIF (28)- Required Reading

2012-02-24T06:00:00.000-06:00

TGIF is a feature hosted by the ever fab Ginger over at GReads! Ginger asks a fun question every week and bloggers post their answers. TGIF is a great way to learn about some of your favorite bloggers, and have fun posting too!

This week's question is...

Required Reading: Which book from your school days do you remember reading & enjoying? Is there a book published now that you'd like to see in today's curriculum for kids?

Well, ahem, seeing as I am a teen, my adventure in required reading is a journey that is not ending anytime soon. I think a lot of people think required reading? bleck. But I've read some great books in school. We'll start with some of the fabulous books I've read in school.

1. The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd- I read this one in between 7th and 8th grade and it really surprised me how much I enjoyed it! There were unexpected plot twists, and I thought the characters were very solid and well written. Summer Reading Win!

2. To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee- Technically, 8th grade was not the first time I read this one (it was the 3rd!) but it was required that we read it in 8th grade. Normally I dislike re-reading a book (other than Anna and the French Kiss) but I was pleasantly surprised by this re-read. There was so much more I got out of it the 3rd time.

3. The Giver by Lois Lowry- Our teacher read this aloud to us in 5th grade and we were supposed to follow along. However, little Meredith decided that she was going to read ahead while the teacher read it outloud and finished the book two weeks early. Woops! I remember really enjoying this one.

What would I like to see in required reading curriculum? Well, first of all- I think it's so cool that Looking for Alaska is so widely read in schools these days. I realize that teacher try to appeal to lots of people with required reading. However, I think a lot of required reading doesn't appeal to those "non-readers"

As a teen going to school everyday, I really see what teens are reading. I must be really annoying by always walking up to random people at school saying "I love that book! It's so good, right?!" and obnoxious things of the sort. However, I also see a lot of non-readers. These are teens who proclaim to hate reading and read Spark Notes instead of the required reading. These are also the teens who only read when required to.

Last year, I was sitting in English class (where we're always required to have a book with us) and one girl who had said she hated reading didn't have a book. I was reading Divergent at the time but happened to have Something, Maybe by Elizabeth Scott in my backpack (its a cute contemp). I lent it to the girl who had forgotten a book and "hated reading." She started reading it and at the end of class she told me that she didn't know books like that even existed! She ended up taking the book home with her and finishing it and loving it. One of the things I love is being able to recommend teen books to other teens.

What my point is here, is that I think sometimes required reading seems to often be very focused on books with strong morals and also classics (although, my english teachers do a good job of incorporating more modern books) and while I think that's good, I think they're should also be more of a blend. Ok, now onto books I think would be great required reading.

1. All John Green Books, especially The Fault In Our Stars- Number One on New York Times for a while now- it's clear that teens love this book. However, most teens are not exposed to the world of YA as much as I am so I think this would be such a great one for required reading. One of the most beautifully written books I've ever read.

2. Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys- My English teacher from last year actually LOVED this one! (yay!!) And as a teen who doesn't always love Historical Fiction, I think this would be a great one if you have a historical unit or something of the sort. It's such a phenomenal book!

3. Where Things Come Back by John Corey Whaley- I'm sure there are already teachers adding this one as required reading. (especially since it just won the Prtinz Award) No matter who you are or what your interests are- I think this book appeals to everyone. I also think teens can really connect with the main character, Cullen Witter.

Lastly, a shout out to all of the english teachers I've had, who are great at choosing books for required reading.

The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater

2012-02-23T06:00:00.000-06:00

Title: The Scorpio Races
Author: Maggie Stiefvater
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Release Date: October 18th, 2011

Synopsis (from Goodreads)-

It happens at the start of every November: the Scorpio Races. Riders attempt to keep hold of their water horses long enough to make it to the finish line. Some riders live. Others die.

At age nineteen, Sean Kendrick is the returning champion. He is a young man of few words, and if he has any fears, he keeps them buried deep, where no one else can see them.

Puck Connolly is different. She never meant to ride in the Scorpio Races. But fate hasn’t given her much of a chance. So she enters the competition — the first girl ever to do so. She is in no way prepared for what is going to happen.

My Thoughts

The Scorpio Races was my first Maggie Stiefvater book and I decided to read it instead of Shiver because it was a standalone! (yay standalones!) I really did not want to commit to a series right now but I did want to read a Maggie Stiefvater novel, so I picked up The Scorpio Races! :)

The plotline was very interesting. Sort of "Hunger Games-esque," but it did take me a while to get into it. Maggie Stiefvater is certainly a phenomenal writing. Like, I would be reading and have to stop just to take in the awesomeness of the writing. The problems were a) there was A LOT of detail, and I like some detail, but at some parts in this book there was too much detail which got boring.

This book took me a while to get into, like I said before. The first half is a bit dull. The beginning sort of drags out for a while, and then after the first 200 pages (yeah, it's a long book) I thought it was incredible. I just think the beginning should have been slightly shortened. The second half was great. Maggie Stiefvater's writing was thought provoking and lyrical and completely fantastic. During the second half of the book I could not stop reading! And the ending! The ending was phenomenal. Another aspect of this book I enjoyed was the family relationships and the romance. Very well done on Maggie's part there.

The whole "Water Horse" is really neat but also extremely creepy. Sort of like something out of a nightmare. And the setting was eery, but really fit in with the mood of the book. This book is not really paranormal, it's sort of fantasy, but I'd say more than anything it's mythology. So if mythology is something that intrigues you, then you should definitely check this one out.

Onto the cover. Lately, I've read a few books where cover will only include one of the two or three main characters which bothers me. I feel like you should have all the characters or none of them on the cover. The Scorpio Races also has another cover (see right.) and that cover does not have either of the main characters (the book is told from two points of view), but I'm still not in love with either of the covers.

Was The Scorpio Races worth the 200 pages of slowness? I think it was. This is definitely a great one for people who like mythology and/or horses and will likely appeal to a multitude of ages.

Other Reviews of The Scorpio Races

Books from Bleh To Basically Amazing (negative review)
GalleySmith (positive review)
Heise Reads and Recommends (neutral review- but slightly more positive)

Top Ten Tuesday- Apocalypse! Quick, Grab the Books!

2012-02-21T00:00:00.000-06:00

Top Ten Books I'd Quickly Save If... (insert disaster here)

We, of course, chose the apocalypse because we need to plan what books we are going to bring to Planet Goldilocks when the zombies attack. Or when the sun explodes. Anyway, you get what we mean. Also, I'm going to exclude the obvious stuff like dictionary and history textbook. We'll assume that they've already been teleported to the Goldilocks planet.

1. To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee- Pour-quoi? It represents our society, being an adult, being a child, morals, what not to do, what to do, and good sorts of things like that. Plus, it's a really good book and I wouldn't mind being stuck with it for a while.

2. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green- Ok the zombies are about to eat me and I scream "GET THE FAULT IN OUR STARS!!" Yep, that's what is going to happen. And really, this book is filled with so much good stuff, and sad stuff, and funny stuff, and wow-I'm-so-thankful-for-myself stuff, and love stuff, yeah, it's a really great book. And it's signed, so I CANNOT lose it.

3. Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins- First of all, I am guilty of not letting anyone touch my copy of this book (it's signed). I love it so so so much and it certainly leaves me with this bubbly, feel-good feeling every time I read it.

4. Harry Potter by JK Rowling- The zombies will NOT be eating Hogwarts and it's staff and students. This book is such a huge part of our lives. I mean, I can hardly imagine life without it just because I think it totally opened up the world of YA literature.

5. Extremely Loud and Incredible Close by Jonathan Safran Foer- It's so good! The zombies ARE NOT allowed to eat this book. Because there's so much we can learn from Oskar and his story, and also, it's just a really fantabulous book.

1. Beauty Queens by Libba Bray: Humans would thrive on the Planet Goldilocks' sister planet, Planet Baby-Bear, if Beauty Queens was brought. Not only is Beauty Queens an all around awesome (and incredibly balanced) book, it has some key survival tips that may be necessary on a new planet.

2. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins: Even zombies might be frightened of Katniss, and not touch the Hunger Games, however I want the human race to be able to enjoy the Hunger Games for as long as possible!

3. Jellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta: I. Love. Jellicoe. Road. If I were to read this book 800 times I would probably find something new and interesting in the book each time I read it. If zombies were to lay a finger on Jellicoe Road I would behead them (although I guess that wouldn't really help...)

4. The Fault In Our Stars by John Green: What a coincidence, Meredith and I both have TFiOS on our lists again. If I could marry this book I would. I would love it if the whole world read TFiOS. This book is inexplicably wonderful, everyone should read it, I don't care if I die trying to get this book on the rocket flying to Planet Baby-Bear it is going to Planet Baby-Bear!

5. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak: I am making my way through the Book Thief now and it is absolutely beautiful and wonderful. While this book describes the World War II era, it tells the story in a very interesting point of view, and makes the story reasonably bearable (not so depressing you might faint while reading). Of course, I am only halfway done with the Book Thief, so things could go down hill with great speed.

Meme Buttons on the Runway

2012-02-20T06:00:00.000-06:00

Today we have for you, five brand new, hot off the griddle, meme images designed and created by Miss Mint Tea (Meredith). And we'll tell you now- these buttons are quite spiffy! We'll introduce them to you one by one.

First off, we have elegant Book of the Month (or BOM) button! Wow, look how delightfully charming (and tasty!) she looks. And that chalk pink!? Absolutely Enchanting!

Second, we have the lovely In My Mailbox Image! I think I see a tea theme in this collection! Don't you agree. The tea cup certainly is chic, but also very different from the one we saw on Book of the Month. And the perilous balance of the tea cup on the book- that takes some serious balance.

Next up, is the sophisticated Leading Literary Lives. Take a look at all of that lovely purple! The lavender dot is quite a stunning embellishment. What a visually pleasing design! And the execution... pure brilliance!

Fourth, we have the amusing- TGIF image! She certainly is the most carefree and bubbly of the collection, which is certainly fitting to the whole idea of the meme. What a lighthearted little deary! Don't you agree?

Last, but surely not least, we have the adorable Top Ten Tuesday! She's a bit of a different shape then the others-taller, but here at Mint Tea and A Good Book, we celebrate diversity. The black circle is a divine contrast to the color of the buttons and certainly is dashing, giving the button a more polished affect.

Now lets give a round of applause to these debonair buttons! They're sure to sparkle in the posts of our everyday lives! What do you think of the buttons? Which one is your favorite? Let us know!

In My Mailbox (41) The Not A Book Edition

2012-02-19T05:00:00.000-06:00

"In My Mailbox" is a weekly feature hosted by the super fabulous, Kristi at The Story Siren. "IMM" is a way to share thoughts on the books you've received throughout the week with readers. To read more about "In My Malbox," click here.

Ok, well nothing came into the ol' mailbox last week. But, something did come from Barnes and Nobles. Dun, duh, duh, dun...

A NOOK

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And I named her Nola the Nook. She actually has a lovely blue case, so more or less she looks like this (minus the goldfish colored science experiment)

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   And if you've been considering getting a nook (or are just interested), this is the "Nook Simple Touch," and it's been great so far. (crosses fingers that the greatness will continue)

   What do I think of e-readers? I will likely answer that in a future post because I do get that question from time to time. This nook will likely mainly be for travel, classics (because classics are either really cheap or FREE on the nook), and probably some e-ARC's since those are cheaper for publishers to make and distribute than a normal ARC.

   Yesterday I did download a few free books (like Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights) but was more of a test than anything. So nothing in the ol' mailbox this week except for the delightful, Nola the Nook. What did you get in your mailbox?

The Catastrophic History of You and Me by Jess Rothenberg

2012-02-18T06:00:00.000-06:00

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Title: The Catastrophic History of You and Me
Author: Jess Rothenberg
Publisher: Penguin Young Readers Group
Release Date: February 21st, 2012

Synopsis (from Goodreads)-

Just before her 16th birthday, Brie Eagan literally dies of a broken heart after her boyfriend tells her he does not love her. She then must go through the five stages of grief, while watching her friends and family try to cope with her death, before her faith in love is restored and she can move on to the afterlife.

My Thoughts

   This book is very different from your typical young adult novel. Why? Because it doesn't really fit into a category. It's written like a contemporary (lots of laugh-out-loud funny bits), but the idea is darker because well, the main character is dead. So it's sort of like a light hearted paranormal, which is very different from what you usually see in the YA market. It's sort of like a Tera Lynn Childs book, but deathy-er.

   And I applaud Jess Rothenberg for that. I think she's sort of paving the way for other books of this sort. I mean she's made something dark and confusing like death (which she portrays in a very interesting manner), into a story more happy go lucky, which I think will appeal to lots of teens.

   The story is told from Brie's point of view and Brie sort of has this slightly dramatic, sarcastic voice which can get really funny. (there were some parts when I was laughing out loud) She's also a very authentic character minus the dead part. ;)

   The cover above, is actually the ARC cover, which I really love because it's very different than most YA covers. And it really captures the essence of the book. The way it's sort of turned upside down (like Brie's life since she's dead), and also how the girl on the cover sort of looks confused, like Brie does. Of course, then they changed the cover to this.

   And I liked the ARC cover so much better! This one sort of makes sense (especially how she's looking down onto Earth), but it's also kind of creepy and it's similar to other YA covers. It doesn't quite capture the hilarity of the book like the other cover did.

   I don't often like paranormal, but this is one that I really enjoyed. The strong voice, interesting plot line, original portrayal of death, and the laugh-out-loud funny bits kept me entertained and eager for more Jess Rothenberg. The Catastrophic History of You and Me is definitely a book that will appeal to many modern day teenagers.

   A round of applause to debut author, Jess Rothenberg for a fabulous first novel!

TGIF (27)- Book Blogger Pride!

2012-02-17T05:00:00.000-06:00

TGIF is a feature hosted by the ever fab Ginger over at GReads! Ginger asks a fun question every week and bloggers post their answers. And honestly, this is one of my favorite features because it's just so fun! And I love reading everyone's answers! Plus, the picture is pretty cute too.

This week's question is...

Book Blogger Pride: What do you take pride in when it comes to blogging?

1. Age- Well, there's not too many teen book bloggers who are running a successful book blog. I'm pretty proud of the fact that I've been blogging with Mint Tea and A Good Book for over a year and that there are actually people besides me who read this blog and comment!

2. Design- Yes, I take pride in the fact that I sort of taught myself blog design with photoshop and that I do all the designs for my blog and some other blogs as well. I'm not great at it, but considering I just played around with photoshop, I think I've done pretty well.

3. Content- I know thats a really broad subject, but I'm proud of what I put on this blog. On Sundays I like to look around at other In My Mailboxes and I can honestly say that I'm one of the few blogs who explains everything in their mailbox instead of just listing them. Additionally, I'm also proud of how frequently I post new posts on this blog.

4. Involvement- Yes, I think I'm pretty involved in the YA literature community. I comment on lots of other blogs, I sign up for challenges, participate in features like this, I interview people, and all that sort of thing. In addition to that I'm also proud of how I help lots of people with their blogs and websites.

5. Balancing Everything- This is something that I'm especially proud of myself for. There's always so much going on, but I manage to make time for everything, including blogging. It's not always easy (ok, it's never easy) but I'm proud of myself for making it work.

Well, thats all for my TGIF today! What do you think? Book Bloggers- what do you take pride in?

Top Ten Tuesday- Heart Breakers!

2012-02-14T00:00:00.000-06:00

Top Ten Tuesday is a feature hosted by the cool kids over at The Broke and the Bookish. Each week The Broke and The Bookish posts a topic and lists their Top Ten things that fall under that category. Top Ten Tuesday is a great way to learn more about your favorite bloggers and discover new blogs and books as well! To learn more about Top Ten Tuesday and see the topics, click here.

This week's topic is...

Top Ten Books That Broke Your Heart A Little (We're going ANTI-Valentine's Day!)

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1. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green- I have never cried so hard in a book like I cried in this one! John Green did not break my heart with this one, he threw my heart on the ground, drowned it, and had a fat elephant stomp on it. It's such an amazing book, but it's certainly a tear jerker.

2. Kira Kira by Cynthia Kadohata- I read Kira Kira in Elementary School and then I read it again a couple years ago. This one is such a heart breaker. I cried and cried and cried. It's so good, but so so sad as well.

3. Looking for Alaska by John Green- I didn't cry quite as much as I cried in The Fault In Our Stars (they're very different books) but I certainly did cry and it certainly broke my heart the way Pudge and the Colonel confided in each other after (insert spoiler here).

4. Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer- This was a book, that while there wasn't a heartbreak DURING the book, the whole story just sort of broke your heart and crushed into little tiny pieces.

5. Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys- Just some of the things lightly mentioned in this book are so horrific. Between Shades of Gray is utterly terrifying and it breaks my heart that there are so many people from the Holocaust that we have forgotten. (this is brought up in TFiOS as well)

1. The Fault In Our Stars by John Green- I know Meredith had this on her list, and I 100% completely and totally agree that TFiOS deserves to be on a list of heartbreaking books. I have cried buckets while reading, but never as much as while reading this book. Huzzah to the fat elephant description Meredith wrote. My heart felt just the same way! The whole earth should read TFiOS (fat elephants included)!

2. Jellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta- Jellicoe Road is phenomenal! I absolutely adored it and towards the end when everything I had wondered about over the course of the book was finally discovered, my heart was broken. I was so sad that I actually finished the book, and I finally understood the main character's feelings.

3. The Help by Kathryn Stockett- While multiple sections of the Help made me furious with different characters (cough cough Hilly cough Leefolt cough), the end of the Help is what put my heart through the shredder. The ending is absolutely heartbreaking, while at the same time extremely hopeful, and I weeped while reading.

4. Paper Towns by John Green- I love this book. I adore this book. I wouldn't mind marrying this book. Paper Towns had a beautiful, and utterly amazing ending that tore my heart into itsy bitsy pieces. The ending was so bittersweet and lovely that my heart broke.

5. Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech- You can't go wrong with Sharon Creech. The last time I read Walk Two Moons I was in fourth grade. I remember being on a road trip with my family while reading this, and the book was so sad that I started to weep. I was utterly embarrassed that I was crying in the car, over a book, but it threw my heart into the blender a demolished it.

Have a lovely, not nearly as heartbreaking as these books, Valentines day!

The Help: Informal Review

2012-02-13T00:00:00.000-06:00

Title: The Help
Author: Kathryn Stockett
Publisher: Berkley Publishing Group
Release Date: January 3, 2011

Goodreads Synopsis:

The wildly popular New York Times bestseller and reading group favorite.

Aibileen is a black maid in 1962 Jackson, Mississippi, who's always taken orders quietly, but lately she's unable to hold her bitterness back. Her friend Minny has never held her tongue but now must somehow keep secrets about her employer that leave her speechless. White socialite Skeeter just graduated college. She's full of ambition, but without a husband, she's considered a failure. Together, these seemingly different women join together to write a tell-all book about work as a black maid in the South, that could forever alter their destinies and the life of a small town...

My Review:

You have probably already heard it:

"This could be one of the most important pieces of fiction since To Kill a Mockingbird... If you read only one book...let this be it"

-NPR.org

"The must-read choice of every book club in the country... What is the big attraction? The Help is about something. That is, something real. Something that matters." -Huffington Post

You may have also heard something along the lines of, "I can't believe the Help was rejected 60 times before it got a publisher!"

Since you have heard all of this many and many time again, I just want to say that I second (more like 80 bazillion) the motion. The Help had gorgeously crafted characters, an unbelievably amazing plot, priceless humorous moments, and an extremely touching and raw moral. If you haven't read this book, read it so you experience what the rest of the world is raving about!

Unfortunately, accidentally (heh heh) I broke a terrible reading rule. I watched The Help movie before I read the book... and, although I wish I had read the book first, the movie was also phenomenal! Just another reason to read the book! Here is the trailer:

In My Mailbooks (40)

2012-02-12T09:09:00.000-06:00

source

1. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green- I'm nearly done (just a bit more to go) and I've been sobbing like a baby. It's such a good book. I can't emphasize enough how good it is! I've never cried so hard in a book before. It will probably end up being one of my favorite books of all time. If you haven't read it yet- go read it right now.

2. Well, this isn't technically a book, but I did get lots and lots of sticky notes this weekend. I'm all stocked up now after the Fault in Our Stars Made me go sticky note bankrupt. I like to mark up passages sometimes and The Fault in Our Stars has at least one passage per page. I'll have to take a picture of all the sticky notes in TFiOS when I'm done. ;)

What's in YOUR Mailbox this week? Feel free to leave a link in the comments! :)

TGIF (26)- Love Story Love!

2012-02-10T07:48:00.000-06:00

Love Stories: What are some of your favorite modern fictional love stories?

Love stories are certainly very common in modern day young adult literature. It's difficult to find a young adult book with no romance, and while I certainly enjoy a book with little to no romance, I also have my favorite love stories. I modified this question a little bit and added the word modern, because if I didn't, then I would be listing A LOT of books!

1. Looking for Alaska by John Green- I'm not sure everyone would classify this book as a love story, but I definitely think it has a love story as a huge chunk of the plotline. I don't want to give anything away other than I cried a lot. Such a beautiful book!

2. Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins- So sweet! Definitely one of my all time favorite love stories! Everything about it is just beyond perfect! From the French setting to the Boarding School to Etienne St. Clair, everything! So much love for this book!

3. Bella at Midnight by Diane Stanley- This may be my 4th grade self talking, but I remember little me sobbing in my room at the end of this book because the ending was so sweet. I really would love to re-read it sometime in the near future.

4. Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins- Once, again, Stephanie Perkins had me with this one! Another one that had such a sweet ending that I started sobbing. (except this time I was on the bus to school. Yes, a bit embarrassing)

5. Sean Griswold's Head by Lindsey Leavitt- *sigh* This is just such a good book. So creative, so funny, so adorable, so fabulous! I may have cried at the end of this one, I can't really remember, but I definitely sighed and swooned.

6. Heist Society Series by Ally Carter- Yep, these books have these wonderful european settings with snow and lovely writing by writer extraordinaire, Ally Carter! Definitely perfect winter romances in my opinion!

7. The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han- I didn't love the rest of the series, but I adored the first one! So well written and relatable for so many teenage girls. This one left me feeling so giddy and in dire need of Cousins Beach!

That's all for this week's TGIF? What are some of your favorite romances?

Leading Literary Lives: Cover Designer!

2012-02-08T05:00:00.000-06:00

Leading Literary Lives is a feature at Mint Tea & A Good Book that showcases real people in the literary industry. As a teen run blog, we're always on the lookout for bookish jobs!

Today, we're hearing from Jeanine Henderson, Cover Designer Extraordinaire! (all pictures in post are from Jeanine!)

1. How long have you been designing covers?

8 years

2. Do you have a favorite cover you’ve designed?

There's so many I've loved working on, but if I had to choose one it would probably be Scones and Sensibility by Lindsay Eland. Not only was the story adorable, but I also had the opportunity to design, illustrate and hand-letter this jacket—so I was really personally connected to it, which always makes making it even more fun!

3. Do you read all the books you design covers for?

Yes, in most cases. Occasionally, like if the book is part of a series, then an editor or publisher can just provide a summary or outline to go off of. But I generally feel that having a chance to read the book myself opens up so much insight to the characters & their story—which always lends to better design.

4. Have you enjoyed art and design your whole life?

Yep! Ever since I can remember, I loved drawing and painting. I even did alot of lettering stuff as a kid.

5. What is the cover designing process like and what sorts of people do you work with and meet with when designing covers?

Cover design is very collaborative. Editors, publishers, art directors, designers and sales teams work together to create an overall package that will not only look amazing, but also appeal to the right buyers and audience. Sometimes it's challenging to have so many people involved in the process, but working with others can also bring you to solutions that you may not have thought of on your own. Occasionally I get to meet or hear from an author whose book I work on, which is always a fun treat!

6. Whats a typical day like for you when designing covers?

I work full-time at a big publishing house, so I have a 9-to-5 type of schedule in an office. That basically involves lots of coffee and meetings :) But I also get to share my day with a lot of other creative people which can be a great source of inspiration.

7. Is cover designing your only job? If not, what other jobs do you have on top of designing covers, and what other jobs have you had in the past?

I'm also a freelance illustrator—so I spend most of my nights making artwork for magazines, books, private commissions, etc.. But other than waiting tables in college, design & illustration has always been my job.

8. Because you design book covers, does it bother you to read a book if you don’t think the cover is fabulous?

Actually yes. I'll still read a book if it's something I'm really interested in, but I'm absolutely first drawn to books with great covers. I've even bought a few just for their beautiful cover, and never ended up reading them!

9. How do you form an idea on what the cover of a book should look like? Do you read the book first?

I definitely get a lot of ideas directly from the story. I like to try to get inside the characters' heads and feel the mood or tone of the book. I also constantly look around at things I love for inspiration—other covers I like, artwork I love, even music—these things tend to influence my work in their own weird, subconscious way. But often times an editor or author will share their ideas as well—so I try tons of different directions for each project.

10. Literally, do you believe that a book can be judged by it’s cover?

Haha! Yes, actually, I think being in the business of making book covers has proven that true! If a book doesn't look fantastic on the outside, then it might not get picked up off a crowded bookshelf—which could mean that a really great story might never get read because its being judged on its cover. On the other hand, there's some books that get bought for their really amazing covers, even if the stories inside aren't quite as amazing.

11. On average, about how long does it take to produce a finished cover?

It takes about a year from when we start reading a manuscript until the book is printed and on the shelves. But the actual cover designs are usually approved within 3-4 months from the start of the project, and you'll see them on Amazon, etc. shortly after that.

12. Do you have a passion for reading like you do designing covers? Favorite genre?

I do love reading. I used to really love biographies and classic literature, but I find myself often going for lighter or more quirky/funny titles now when I have the chance to read for pure fun.

13. And lastly, a Mint Tea & A Good Book tradition, do you have a favorite type of tea?

I Love Peppermint tea. Just had a cup in fact! :)

Jeanine has designed covers for John Green, Rosalind Wiseman (author of the book Mean Girls is based off of), Erin Dionne, Pat Murphy, Lauren Myracle, Janet Fox, Maureen Johnson, and so many more! Thanks so much to Jeanine for letting us interview her! And if you haven't checked out her amazing work, you should visit her adorable website.

Blog Tour: What's Wrong with Me by Daree Allen

2012-02-07T04:00:00.000-06:00

Title: What's Wrong With Me
Author: (the incredible!) Daree Allen
Publisher: Kharacter Distinction Books

Synopsis (from author's website)-

"It’s a question we’ve all asked ourselves. Today’s age of everything-goes media messages and in-your-face sexuality has led to many teen girls grappling with self-esteem and self-worth. Author Daree Allen, MS guides girls through their young adulthood by teaching lessons shared from her own experiences in her debut offering,What’s Wrong With Me?: A Girl’s Book of Lessons Learned, Inspiration and Advice. She offers self-empowering building blocks designed to strengthen young women’s inner truths in the face of relationships with themselves, others, and God. Fundamental to the inner truths are the foundational blocks that allow them learn to love the skin they’re in, realize their dreams, and make a positive impact on the world.

In this part memoir-part self-help guide, Daree addresses the timeless issues most girls struggle with in adolescence, including:

accepting body image and dressing appropriately
handling feelings of inadequacy
dating and premarital sex
relating to family members
understanding personal finance
discovering life purpose
respect and personal boundaries

The companion book, the What’s Wrong With Me? Reflections Journal digs deeper into the contemporary topics discussed in the book What’s Wrong With Me? that affect teen girls’ everyday lives. With interactive, thought-provoking workbook-style questions and fill-in-the-blank exercises, girls can openly and honestly record their thoughts and feelings to help them release tension and understand the world around them. The self-discovery, revelation and release will lead to profound fulfillment and start their own life-long practice of journaling."

My Thoughts

   Wow! First off, Daree Allen is truly an amazing woman! After reading What's Wrong With Me? and snooping around on Daree's lovely website. She is like super- woman! And she also has some really great quotes, and as you might know, I LOVE quotes. Ok, lets talk about the book.

   What's Wrong With Me? tackles some really tough issues and one thing that really puts it aside from other books of the sort was how Allen approached the topics so honestly sharing a lot of her own personal experience. She admitted her mistakes and how she's messed up which is not an easy thing to do. But she also gives tips and advice to avoid some of the mistakes she's made.

   This is the perfect book for young women seeking advice and guidance to their every day lives. And very well done on Daree Allen's part!

It's My One Year Blogoversary!!

2012-02-06T05:00:00.000-06:00

Like I mentioned earlier, when I started blogging I knew hardly anything about the book publishing industry. I you asked me a year ago what an ARC was I probably would have told you "that boat Noah put the animals on." I didn't even know what a literary agent was or that it was even possible to self publish a book!

   Yes, it's true. Today Mint Tea and Good Book and I are turning one year old.

   It sounds small, but for me it's a milestone. To say "I've been blogging for over a year!" sounds so awesome! I love the fact that I've stuck with it and loved it. Through book blogging I've found something unexpected that I really love. Thats what being a teenager is about! Finding new things you love!

The History

   On February 6th, 2011- I started this blog and wrote my very first post that I can hardly look at today. (I cringe whenever I read it) I had no idea what I was doing. Really. Notice, I started the post by saying "As many of you know, I'm a huge fan of Ally Carter." As many of you know? I'm pretty sure by many I actually meant zero because there were probably zero people reading that post! Goodness, Meredith!

Now, I need to give The Story Siren's blog tips some credit for helping me out with this blog those first couple months. Those tips taught me what an ARC was, what a book review really was, what book blogs actually were, how to use blogger, how book publishers and bloggers are related, and what memes are, specifically In My Mailbox. (I thought when the post said IMM {86} you literally had 86 books in your mailbox)

In March I actually started reviewing books. Behold my first book review. It's semi-ghastly. Thank you to I Eat Words for commenting on that post! You ladies are too awesome! ;)

   In April I went to the TLA conference which was certainly VERY helpful in sort of understanding the publishing industry. (I'll be going again this April with my blogger bud, Willa!) Also, Armchair BEA in May gave me a nice inside look into the blogger/ publisher relationship.

   I'd say May was finally when I got my footing in blogging. I understood the blogger/publisher relationship, how to use blogger, what I enjoyed about blogging and what I didn't enjoy, and things like that. I also had my first giveaway at the end of May.

   People ask me when I started getting books for review and I can't really pinpoint exactly when that was. I started asking first and soon I started getting lots of emails about reviewing books. So, just remember, the worst that will happen from asking is getting a "no." (I did get a "no" once)

The People I've Met

   The people! Literary Bloggers connect so much! Why? Because we all have something in common. We all love to read and started a blog about literature. Sometimes having something in common is all it takes to make a new friend!

   But really, the people I've met through blogging are so extraordinary! They inspired me through their dedication and passion for reading and writing. Also, through blogging I have met so many authors! Whether in real life or via internet, it's incredible. For a book lover, an author is like a big celebrity but 20 times better because they're really smart.

   All the people who work in this industry are far too amazing. They put me to shame with their awesomeness.

What I've Learned

   I've also learned a TON about technology. So much! I do all the designs for my blog myself, and when I started blogging I didn't even know that was possible!

   I have learned so so so much about this industry! And I love it! This is such an amazing industry that is always changing.

How I've Improved

   Through book blogging I've opened my mind to more genres, picked up more books, been motivated to read a whole lot more, and notice little things in novels that I'd never noticed before. I also notice the writing more. I love that!

   I've also received so many comments about my writing on this blog. I've received an abundance of comments and a handful of emails, even people I meet in real life that say "I really love your writing." Multiple English teachers that I don't even know! Do you know how awesome that makes me feel!? It makes me want to sing "I'm Walking On Sunshine" and dance in a sunny field of daisies with a strawberry banana smoothie in a flowy floral dress!

   Not only that, but a lot of people have told me that they've noticed my writing maturing and getting better. And that's where the real beauty lies. By practicing my writing multiple times a week for an audience there has been such a positive change in my writing! I think that through blogging I've sort of discovered my voice in writing. My friend says that now she can tell when it's something I've written because when she reads it, it sounds like me. Perhaps finding my voice in something I love is the greatest improvement of all.

Acknowledgments

   I haven't written a novel or anything, but I have written something and I'm entitled to thank a handful of people who I am completely in debt to.

Literary Blogs that Inspire Me

The Story Siren
GReads!
The Broke and the Bookish
YA Highway
I Read Banned Books
I can't possible list all of you!

Bloggers I Love

Farrah and Britney from I Eat Words
Willa from Willa's Ramblings
Katie from Katie's Book Blog
Jamie from The Perpetual Page Turner
Lindsi from Books, Sweets, Other Treats
Vy from Vy's Blog
April from Good Books and Good Wine
Lisa from Lisa is Busy Nerding
Jess from Remarkable Reads
Erika from Rescue Reads
Jasmine from A Room with Books
Gah! There are too many of you! ;)

YA Authors Who've Been So Sweet

Veronica Roth
Tahereh Mafi
Kirsten Hubbard
Lindsey Leavitt
Ally Carter
Jessica Brody
Stephanie Perkins
Michelle Maddow
John Corey Whaley
Morgan Matson
Melissa Buell
Jennifer Anne Kogler
Elise Allen
Anna Banks
Jennifer Ziegler
Jay Asher
I should stop now. There are far too many of you!

Other People I'm In Debt To

Thank you so much to Ms. Langley for the mint plant that thrived, Mrs. Mauser for the sushi, Book People for the books and events, my family for pretty much everything, Willa for stalking authors with me, Emma for reading this blog when she didn't have to, Erin for shimmying down to the laundry room (and doing a lot of other things), and all my friends for putting up with me day in and day out.
Also, a huge thank you to everyone here who puts up with me. Thank you for your comments, emails, and reading this blog. *virtual hug*

And here's to another fabulous year of Mint Tea and A Good Book.

In My Mailboxy (39)

2012-02-05T08:35:00.003-06:00

"In My Mailbox" is a weekly feature hosted by the super fabulous, Kristi at The Story Siren. "IMM" is a way to share thoughts on the books you've received throughout the week with readers. To read more about "In My Malbox," click here.

After last week's king sized haul, I glad to announce that I only received a couple of books this week.

1. The Statistical Probablity of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E Smith- I've heard fabulous things about this one! And I'm so super duper excited to read it that I might have to ditch my TBR pile and put this one right at the top. Plus, I love that it's set in the course of just about 24 hours like Au Revoir, Crazy European Chick was. Thank you to Willa for lending me this one!

2. Of Poseidon by Anna Banks (ARC)- The cover of this book looks kind of dark and spooky, but I'm probably about 1/3 of the way done with it and while it has a creepy aspect it's also a very fun kind of mermaid-y book. And yes, I'm loving it so far. Also, Anna Banks is extremely awesome and sweet and hilarious!

That's all for In My Mailbox this week! What's in YOUR mailbox? Feel free to leave a link to your IMM in the comments. :)

A Bit of Bookish Help!

2012-02-04T08:27:00.000-06:00

Hello There!
   For the past week or two, I've been working on a personal essay in my english class about why literature is so important to teens. So, I've been writing the essay, la di da di da, when I realized that I need some other voices in the essay besides just my own.
   This is where YOU come in! I need, authors, bloggers, editors, anyone who has a passion for YA to fill out a really, super short survey about why literature for teens is so important. You don't have to be a teen to fill out the form. ;)
   You can be anonymous on the form and if you'd prefer, you can also send me an email at mintteaandagoodbook (AT) gmail (DOT) com. The form is below. :)

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   Let me know if the form doesn't work and you can also just fill out the from HERE. And also like I said earlier, if you'd rather email me, that's fine as well.

Thanks Again!