Chaos Theory

Hodgepodgeing Again [Finally]

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Wed, 18 May 2016 19:00:00 +0000

Well, I did say that I was going to try and blog again with some sort of regularity. So, here goes: I'm returning to the HodgePoge with Joyce over at From This Side of the Pond because she has some great questions this week - and I needed some inspiration to write!

Let's do this!

1. Tell us about a time you found yourself in the 'middle of nowhere.' Was this deliberate?

I like to spend time 'in the middle of nowhere' - especially at night. It's usually deliberate for me. There's something beautiful about being out of the city and in the world. The last time for me with this was probably either at my friend's wedding a few weekends ago or the last time I was up in Maine for work.

2. What's something you're 'in the middle of' today or this week?

Everything? Packing, setting up a new bank account, VISA applications, TSA PreCheck Applications, etc, etc, etc. Also in the middle of The Darkest Minds by Alexandra Bracken which is phenomenal already!

3. At what age do you think 'middle age' begins? What does it mean to be 'middle aged'?

I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that middle age is a made up period of life that only happens when you've decided that it happens.

Act young, live young, be young - at 10, 50, or 100...

4. What's your favorite food from the list with something yummy in the middle?

I love me some perogies stuffed with potatoes and cheese.

Not on the list would have to be

5. Albert Einstein is quoted as saying "In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity." Would you agree? Have you found this to be true in your own life?
I'd have to agree with this man, he's pretty smart.
I think that out of adversity some of the most amazing things that can happen.
And I think I've lived to see that happen for me and others enough to believe it.

6. What's a song you remember loving from your middle school years? Do you love it still?

Anything by *Nsync. And, yes, of course I still love it all today!

7. May 18th is National Visit Your Relatives Day? Will you celebrate? Who would you visit if possible?

Unfortunately I can't head home today (though my dad was here this morning and left to drive home, does that count?) but will be soon! I would probably visit my parents - even though I visit them a lot, they're my favorite people on the planet and no amount of time with them is ever enough.

8. Insert your own thought here.

I cannot believe that in just over a month I will be wrapping up my time here in Montreal! It feels like I just moved here. But, moving to Italy will be amazing in ways that I can't even begin to understand right now. And I cannot wait for that adventure to begin.

TTT: I LOVED These Books (And You Should Too)

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Tue, 29 Mar 2016 11:00:00 +0000

So, I've been gone from this for a while (both participating in Top Ten Tuesday from The Broke and The Bookish and binge-reading fiction in general), but I thought, since I started back up with this blog a few days ago, this might be a good way to flex my fingers and write some more. Totally noncommittal style.

And probably to embarrass myself in the minimal amount of for-fun books I've been reading (seriously, I had to dig back to 2013 to fill out this list).

In any case, this week's topic seemed like an easy one to get back into the groove, Ten of My Most Recent 5-Star Reads. Which is likely to expand into my all time favorite books, with an emphasis early on in the list of recent books that I love. Who knows how this will go, so buckle your seatbelt, let's try this out.

Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell

I finished this book in a day. I cannot tell you how long it's been since I last did that, but this book was worth it. Cath is every one of us who has ever become a part of an online community - be it through a fandom or book blogging or any other means of connection. How many of us haven't felt awkward in social situations but then thought, man if only these people would meet me online. And there are Emergency Kanye Dance Parties, and a goofy boy named Levi, and a realization that you can be loved and liked for who you are, that you don't have to lose sight of you to expand and grow. I loved this book.

Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo

I knew I loved Leigh's writing when I fell for Nikolai in Shadow and Bone. I knew I loved who Leigh is as a human being when a series of fun & encouraging tweets were exchanged with her during my very!stressful! comprehensive exams were taking place. And I knew I would love Six of Crows when Leigh told me I would (when I went to Toronto to buy and have it signed by her just after completing my exams and she covered a page of the book with a huge CONGRATS!). Leigh hasn't let me down yet, and this book is such a fantastic and wonderful start to a series that I was already anticipating book #2 a few chapters into #1. What a cast. What a story. I think I love this series more than the Grisha Trilogy already - and that's saying something.

The Book of Life by Deborah Harkness

In true Courtney fashion, I put off reading the conclusion to the All Souls Trilogy for a year. A. Year. Because, despite wanting to know how Diana and Matthew's story would play out, I did not want to see it end. I was not (and am still not) ready to let go of these characters. I still think that In some not-so-far-off parallel universe I am Diana Bishop and that my current pursuit of a History PhD aligns quite nicely with her career. Someone just send the intelligent and dashing eons old Vampire my way, okay?

Queen of Shadows by Sarah J. Maas

Truth be told it took me a little to warm up to the 5-stars that I gave this book. Perhaps it was because I put off reading this one for a long time (are we sensing a pattern here?) because I knew it would be a while before the next book came out. It was also probably because this book has a whole lotta stuff going on in it and there were times when I had to stop and reassess what I knew and what I didn't yet know. Maybe I was reading it too fast, but dangit I wanted to know. In the end, after the book hangover haze cleared away I realized just how wonderfully this book came together. That despite feeling like I was sometimes stuck inside a tornado of words and stories, that all of the pieces fit together in this insane and beautiful installment of this series. That's a good book.

The Smart One by Jennifer Close

I absolutely adored Girs in White Dresses. So when I saw that she had another book, I knew I had to have my hands on it and my brain immersed in it. It's one year in the life of a family. It's about expectations and what happens if and when you don't meet them. Or when someone you have expectations doesn't meet them. It's about accepting a person for who they are and allowing them to do and be what they need to do and be. It's about how we never really succeed at growing up (but get pretty good at faking it), coming home, and accepting that we're all a little flawed - and that's okay.

Let's Pretend This Never Happened by Jenny Lawson

This book gave me all the laughs. From taxidermied squirrels playing poker to colon cleanses gone wrong, this book is such a true and unashamed picture of what real life is, or what it could be. Lawson doesn't hold back any punches and she doesn't skirt around the harder issues that we so often try to sweep under the rug of our day-to-day lives. If you need a laugh, but you also want a book that raises - and discusses - a number of real-life problems, you need to pick up this book.

So, what about you guys? What books have you read recently that get all the stars? Which ones have really knocked your socks of that you just can't stop recommending? Have you read any of these?

Let's talk!

It's (Almost) Time To Pack Up (Again)

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Sat, 26 Mar 2016 22:43:00 +0000

I'm hoping this picture of me thumbs-upping with a Yeti
will distract you from the time-stamp of my last post.

Woah.

Yep, I read that right.

It's been over six months since I last posted.

I cannot believe how forgotten this little blog of mine has been since I moved to Montreal. Things have been crazy over the past two years.

Two. Years. I cannot believe that I'm almost done with two years of my PhD. In some ways it feels like I've been doing this thing forever. In some ways I still feel so brand new at the whole process.

In a lot of ways I feel the same way about this city. It's started to feel like a place I sometimes call home. You know in that way that you get jaded about your hometown that you feel like you've done everything there is to do, eaten at all the cool places to eat, and seen all the fun things to see. Except in this city I feel like there's still a million and six restaurants I still have to try.

Which is why now is the perfect time to pack up and move.

Again.

Because that's apparently what I do.

Oh, you're starting to feel at home here? Pack your bags, kid, we've got moving to do.

No, I'm not done with my PhD (either actually, as in graduating, or metaphorically, as in quitting).

Me at the Montreal Botanical Garden's
Jardins de Lumière back in October

It's just that I need to head overseas to do my research (in my head I've said that so blasé and you're probably sitting there going: "wait, need to head overseas" who is this chick?) because apparently the Middle Ages didn't really happen the same way over here as they did over there. And Europe is all "these are our documents, we're gonna keep them on this side of the pond, thanks." Which makes doing research from North America a little bit difficult.

So now you know why I study medieval history - it means traveling is pretty much non-negotiable. And we all know how much I love to travel.

And, well, you know that old joke about graduate students being poor as dirt? Well, it's not a joke, thankyouverymuch, and I simply can't justify paying rent in Italy and rent in Montreal in the same month.

So, after two glorious years of having my own kitchen and my own bed and a door with a lock and key and a closet instead of a suitcase to keep my clothes in (and unwrinkled) (oh, who am I kidding, my clothes are always wrinkled, much to my mother's displeasure - sorry mom), come June I'll be packing up my things and again trying to fit my life into two suitcases.

And I really, really, really love my apartment. So sending in that "hey, appartment rental people, I'm not renewing my lease this year" email was absolutely heartbreaking. Seriously. I'm pretty sure I had an anxiety attack as soon as I hit send to the tune of: What if this all falls through? What if I can't get to Italy? Then I just gave up this SWEET apartment for nothing. And I'll be homeless in Montreal. Because there are clearly no more apartments in this city other than this one. NONE. And I won't be able to do any research, so I'll never finish my degree because you can't write a research dissertation without research. I wonder if you can send in "JK apartment rental people, I'm not really moving, April fools! Oh? It's still March, my bad. Let's just forget this whole thing and I'll be keeping the apartment, thanks!" email? I love this apartment. I love my yoga studio. OMG WHAT AM I DOING.

This view from my balcony is one of the things I
am going to miss most about this apartment

And then I made myself some tea and told myself to calm down while watching Fuller House and I was immediately glad I waited until this moment to spend a day binge-watching this show. Because what better way is there to deal with the stress and anxiety of moving than a reboot of a beloved 90s sitcom? Nothing, I tell you, nothing.

Other than maybe finding a $100 on the street corner. But that has yet to happen to me, so I can't really be the judge on if that or a Fuller House binge is better.

All this is to say, maybe I'll be better at blogging again now that there's adventure on the horizon. I wrote a lot more and put up a lot more pictures when I was abroad last time. And maybe I'll even write a review or two about some books I've read recently (the few fiction ones I've gotten to, I'm sure you're probably not that interested in my thoughts on any historiography. Especially if you just had to google historiography to see what I was talking about).

No promises though, we all know what happened last time I did that (re: the 6 month hiatus I artfully didn't apologize for a the beginning of this post). But I will try. Of that we can be sure.

Thirty Seems Pretty Sweet

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Thu, 27 Aug 2015 02:48:00 +0000

Today I turn thirty years old, which frankly, isn't as frightening as it sounds.

I've spent a lot of time lately thinking about this next decade.

Thinking about all the amazing people I've met on this journey so far.

And on who I am today because of all of those people.

All of you people.

So, thank you from the bottom of my heart for being you.

And allowing that youness of you to shape the meness of me.

I honestly wouldn't be who I am, or where I am, today without you.

So, here I'll leave you with some bits of wisdom I've accumulated over the years.

There were a million more I thought of after

(like "drink those 8 glasses of water 'they' recommend"

or, "find a reason to laugh every single day, no matter how hard it may seem")

but these are a good bunch to reflect on today.

And also, my parents deserve the biggest shout out,

and I LOVE YOU,

that there ever was on the internet ever.

Because?

Well, I really wouldn't be the woman I am today without them.

At all.

So, thanks Mom and Dad.

For everything.

Woah, Hello There Blog

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Thu, 29 Jan 2015 03:29:00 +0000

Well, it seems to have been quite a while since I posted last!

I'd like to say that's because life has been far too exciting to sit down and write a post, but it's more the opposite. I am busy all the time with this PhD program, but it's a pretty boring and sedentary life for me these days.

I am reading a lot. Which is cool - my book numbers are through the roof. But not any books for fun. They're all for school. My Goodreads account is starting to look a lot more academic these days. I did manage to read read one book for fun (the last Heroes of Olympus book) at Christmas, but that's about it for the past few months. I am trying to work on that - I miss my books.

I'm going to try and go back and write all the reviews I didn't get to - maybe that will get me back into blogging. Or at least be a productive waste of time unlike all my other technological outlets that distract me from my work.

In any case, life in Montreal is pretty beautiful. I may not have explored the city as much as I would have liked to over the months I've been here. But what I have seen I have loved.

But, you guys? Winter here is no!joke! We may not have a lot of snow up here yet (Juno missed us completely!) - but the temperatures are more than making up for that. We're talking nights where the "feels like" temperature is around -30F. Which is just crazy talk. Next time I move I'm going south. I need the sun back in my life.

So, here are a few pictures of life lately, and a potential-promise to be back round these parts more. I've missed you guys!

This was after the first snowfall in Quebec.
I was so naive about the cold back then....

Campus under it's first real snowfall of the year.

It was about 9 degrees out.
So obviously I needed a photo with the cow sculpture.

Phoenix misses me a lot when I'm gone.
Can you tell?

Oh, just DESSERT PIZZA
at my favorite chocolate place in town.

Because I don't get enough of the MA in my daily life...

When Technology Gods Strike

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Tue, 23 Sep 2014 04:19:00 +0000

You guys?

Grad school is exhausting.

Actually physically and mentally exhausting.

All the time.

Sometime soon I plan on sitting down and writing a real post where I outline what the next year entails for me in this PhD program (short version: 200 books read by next June or September, depending on how fast I read) and what that has meant for my daily life (short version: bed around midnight, up by 7).

Honestly, I am going to make some time for the update of all updates.

But, for now?

For now I need a moment to vent. Serious venting. Something that I rarely (if ever?) do, but right now I'm so past frustrated at the technology gods. So, venting is necessary.

Because?

So, I'm in the middle of writing a grant application - you know, so I can afford to live in a city on my own for the next few years. And it has been eating up all of my time and brain power (seriously, I am pretty sure I go to bed every night in some state of brain-dead-mush) and every last bit of emotional sanity I have left.

These things are not for the faint of heart my friends!

And tonight all of my iProducts decide they NEED!TO!BE!UPDATED! Because, you know Apple recently updated everything to do with their products (except for their desktops, we have to wait a few months for the update for that which in itself is causing me tremendous heartbreak - apparently you lose the ability to sync between a desktop and your other devices until that new software is on your computer. So now I can't integrate all my devices like I was able to prior to the updates. UGH!).

So, the iPhone, the iPad, and the desktop all decide to do their thing. And in the process my iPad decides it wants to play some sort of awful game and deletes everything out of my Pages folder. Including this one document I had been slaving away over for a few hours.

Fortunately everything else was backed up a bazillion places, but this document hadn't uploaded to the cloud yet because of the mass electronics updates going on Chez Courtney. So, yes it could have been a lot worse if I had lost all my PhD work so far - so, thank God for that one.

But still! That one document? It's the one that has been causing me the most stress. And I had to start from scratch. After having it almost to complete perfection. So I've spent the last few hours rewriting it and trying not to dissolve in a mess of sloppy, ugly tears over what could have been a much bigger catastrophe.

If you're wondering, that document is done - and probably a whole lot better than the one I had lost was going to be. Or at least that's what I'm telling myself now. Because otherwise I would be a whole lot more grumpy than I was.

If y'all need me you can find me curled up in a ball taking deep breaths and a nap (or eight).

Technology, guys.

Seriously.

Most of the time I love it, but right now I'm ready to retreat into a hermitage in the woods where all I need is the sunshine and a cup of coffee.

How are you guys all doing on the technological front?

Welcome Back, Me!

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Thu, 28 Aug 2014 18:38:00 +0000

Well, hey there everyone! It's been a while, hasn't it?

Good news - I think I'm back to blogging! I've got, oh, about 20+ books to review and a whole new life adventure to write about!

See, I moved to Canada to do my PhD - which means that there is potential around every corner for things to see and do and eat and talk about. So, that makes this little blog of mine a whole lot of multifaceted again - and I couldn't be happier.

So, strap in guys! It's gonna be an exciting ride!

Just so I can brag - look at the view from my bedroom window!
I see you Quebec! Lookin' all fantastic!
We're gonna have a lot fun!

2013 Reads: Fifty {Sharp Objects - Gillian Flynn}

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Mon, 19 May 2014 00:40:00 +0000

I guess it's time I finally finished up the reviews of the books I read in 2013, wouldn't you say? So, here it is, the last book of 2013: Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn

I think it's safe to say that you have some sort of idea about what you're getting into when you pick up one of Gillian Flynn's novels. Even if you haven't read one of her books before.

Maybe not exactly what the story you're about to read is about, exactly. But that you're in for a crazy, suspenseful, and twisted ride.

Much like with Gone Girl, I finished this book unsure about if I actually liked what I had just read. Or, maybe, I wondered how if I did like it what that had to say about me. That sentence will make a lot more sense if you've read one of her books. Promise.

WHAT WAS WRITTEN

Camille Parker has inscribed the words of her life all over the contours of her body. Her past haunts every moment of her waking life - enough that she spent some time in a mental hospital. Now that she has checked herself out, she is seemingly on a fast track back.

The newspaper she works for - a second-rate, local daily paper - wants to send her back to her hometown for a story. Back to the world she so desperately has tried to leave behind. She returns reluctantly to cover the deaths of two local girls.

Once home she is confronted by everything that went wrong with her childhood. Her mother, a narcissistic and neurotic hypochondriac, is unimpressed by her return. And her half-sister, a thirteen year old and beautiful girl, who she barely knows might just be the in she needs on the inner workings of her hometown.

Once she steps foot back inside her family's Victorian mansion everything that she has fought so hard to forget comes flooding back. A tragedy which shaped her childhood and marked the rest of her life is unfolding before her eyes and she's not sure she can keep it together long enough to crack the story of the dead girls. As she identifies more and more with the girls she is investigating, Camille realizes that she needs to confront her own past in order to make sense of the present.

WHAT MY BRAIN HAS TO SAY ON THE MATTER

Oh!My!God!

I wasn't sure Gillian Flynn could throw me for a loop again after Gone Girl. I was convinced that I would be able to pick up all the signs that she was laying down - that I was aware of her tricks now.

But man, I was not prepared for what happened in this book. Flynn got me again - and she got me good.

It's hard to talk about her books without giving too much away. And I do not want to give a moment of this book away. The way the little secrets and bits of information drop into your lap at exactly the right moment so you're forced to reevaluate everything you thought you already knew about the story. Those wtf?! moments? Those are the moments I read her books for. And I wouldn't want to deprive anyone from a single one of those moments - or potentially reveal the moment for them.

And if you've read this book already you know exactly which moment I'm talking about.

One thing I really love about this book (and yes, maybe 'love' much like 'like' isn't exactly the right word, but it's the best I've got) is the characters. Flynn is marvelous at creating characters who are people more than they are characters. In this book she has completely succeeded at crafting authentic mean, nasty women. You know those type of women I'm talking about - the grown up Mean Girls (promiscuous, violent, abusive, self-destructive, and more). And then similarly she is able to perfectly capture their offspring, the mean girls themselves. And those young women? Oh my god, they're even worse.

It's rare to see women portrayed as anything other than either heroines or victim. Instead Flynn casts them as a source of violence and evil within their community as well as the victims of that evil. Because, as we all know so well, women can be so mean - especially to other women. Men in this novel are only secondary - they're the pawns and the playthings of the women around them. And it's interesting to see that so accurately portrayed in this novel.

I would totally recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a wonderful thriller of a novel. Especially one which, in a few ways, seems to turn the genre on its head. Sharp Objects is not for the squeamish though - it's full of sex, drugs, and violence - it's truly not for the faint of heart.

It's kind of like watching a train wreck - you feel bad about watching, but you can't look away. I think Flynn has the literary corner of that market covered perfectly.

THE NITTY GRITTY

Title: Sharp Objects

Author: Gillian Flynn

Genre: Thriller, Mystery, Crime

Medium: Paperback, 254 pages

Publisher: Broadway Books (31 July 2007)

Date Read: 31 December 2013

Source: Christmas Gift

Recommended For: High School +, Mystery Lovers, Thriller Lovers

Challenges: Goodreads

First Line: My sweater was new, stinging red and ugly.

Favorite Line: The face you give the world tells the world how to treat you.

Last Line: Lately, I've been leaning towards kindness. [whited out, for spoiler's sake]

When You're Too Busy Looking Down, You Don't See The Chances You Miss

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Mon, 05 May 2014 00:14:00 +0000

I know I've been a little absent these days. Sorry world.

I've been busy.

I was caught up so many things these last few months. First I got to revel in my acceptance to a PhD program in Montreal which I am super excited about (more information on that later)! Then I spent a lot of time at home with my family just taking life easy and enjoying the amazing relationship you get to have with your parents in your adult life. And then I got caught up in a month long road-trip which took me to North Carolina and Tennessee and many other places. Reconnecting with so many old friends and making a hand full of new ones. Then I returned to work and have been traversing across New England working with kids on life-skills and character education. And then working with combat veterans and their families.

Life has been insane. But it's been amazing. I've been living my life these days as in-person as possible and not through the lens of my phone or computer. And that, that's the way I want to spend more of my days.

Which really makes me love this campaign that's making its way around the internet these days:

We're a generation of idiots - smart phones, dumb people. I honestly had tears in my eyes throughout this whole video - not just the part that shoved all sorts of feelings in your face. And yes, it totally hits you with the feelings - hard.

This is such a brilliant reminder about the type of people we should all desire to grow up to be. We should aspire to be the type of person who presses the power-off button on all of their technology and the power-on button to their lives. We should be fully present in the world around us - and should show the children in our lives exactly how great of a reward that can be.

We should be the generation who LOOKS UP.

And no, the irony of posting this video and this message on a social media site is not lost on me. But, please know, if I disappear again for a while it's not because I'm not reading or not doing anything interesting worth reporting - it's probably that I'm off reading or experiencing or enjoying.

I'm probably off LOOKING UP.

Check Me Out

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Fri, 28 Feb 2014 19:19:00 +0000

Just popping in today to mention that this little blog of mine is being featured over at The Paper Sea for Nikki's Book Blogger Spotlight.

If you haven't checked out her blog yet, you really ought to! She writes awesome reviews of a lot of YA novels and has some excellent (and thought provoking!) discussions every week. So, head on over there and say hello. Or, at least, read about what I have to say about this ol' blog of mine.

And for those of you who have made your way over here from over there? Hello! And welcome! Enjoy your stay and I hope to see more of you round these parts!

2013 Reads: Forty-Nine {Leviathan - Scott Westerfeld}

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Wed, 19 Feb 2014 21:30:00 +0000

This was my first foray into Steampunk as a literary genre. I think. It's totally a genre that should be right up my alley too.

Add in that this book takes place in a reimagined Austro-Hungarian Empire on the eve of World War I, and you have the recipe for a book that I should adore.

However, I think I liked the idea of this book perhaps a little more than the book itself. It wasn't bad, that's for sure. And I enjoyed it. But I think I just wanted so much more from it.

WHAT WAS WRITTEN

It is 1914 and the world is divided between the Clankers (Austro-HUngarian) and the Darwinists (British). The Darwinists have used genetics to evolve animals into being useful to humans for things like transportation and war. Genes are spliced together and giant hybrid animals are the norm. The Clankers lie on the complete opposite end of the spectrum - they have advanced machines and technology to help their society flourish.

In the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the Archduke, Franz Ferdinand, has just been assasinated. His son, Prince Aleksandar, is now on the run from the assassins. As the would-be heir to the throne, his title is now worthless and has instead become a death sentence as all of his people has turned on him. All he has is an old war machine and a few close, loyal men to help him survive.

Hundreds of miles away, Deryn Sharp is a commoner who has disguised herself as a boy in order to join the British Air Service. She is brilliant at anything that has to do with flight and the 'beasties' who take men into the air. However, she's constantly in fear that her secret will be discovered and she'll be grounded forever.

With World War I on the horizon, Deryn and Alecsandar's paths cross in the most unexpected way. And what follows is an adventure which will take them around the world and change their lives forever.

WHAT MY BRAIN HAS TO SAY ON THE MATTER

Like I said earlier there is so much about this book that set it up to be a book I would adore. But there were times where it, well, where it just fell a little flat for me.

The major problem for me was also something that I found fascinating. Westerfeld spends so much time explaining the alternate history, the machines, and the world around Daryn and Alec that I feel like the story got lost amid the details. Now, yes, the details were fascinating. But by the time I got finished with one of Deryn's descriptions of a beastie I had forgotten what was going on in her part of the story.

It just made the plot drag on for me and stagnate at points. Because, really? The plot (when it was moving forward) was really exciting. With Alec being chased across the Austro-Hungarian Empire and slowly learning about his family history. And then with Daryn's fortuitous rise to a worker on one of the airships she has dreamed of her whole life. This book is primed for an action-packed, fast-paced novel that I should run right through. But it didn't, and that disappointed me. I hate when I get bored while I'm reading.

Now, some of the things that I thought were great.

Let's start with the illustrations. Because? Those are all fantastic. Absolutely amazing. The details that were put into each and every image of that book were marvelous. I loved having them there to bring some of the more technical pieces of Westerfeld's world to life. I would stop and stare at some of the drawings (especially when the story was dragging) because of the exquisite detail. They made such a positive and important impact on the story.

I also really loved the re-imagined history that Westerfeld tells. For a few reasons. One, I am such a history geek. I think it's fascinating when an author can look at a set history in our past and say "well, what would have that been like if...?" and then tell a wonderful story with that as its base. Two, how many kids read this book and then started looking into WWI? I bet a good few. And any book that makes a kid excited about learning makes me insanely happy. So, thanks for that Westerfeld.

Now, while I wasn't completely thrilled by this book, I am definitely intrigued. I plan on reading the second book in this series - I really want to see where he's going with this world. Maybe since so much time was spent in this novel explaining all the little details of the Clankers and the Darwinists the next book will be more plot driven. Fingers crossed.

THE NITTY GRITTY

Title: Leviathan

Author: Scott Westerfeld

Genre: Young Adult, Steampunk, Fantasy, Science Fiction, Alternate History

Medium: Hardcover, 440 pages

Publisher: Simon Pulse (6 October 2009)

Date Read: 27 DEcember 2013

Source: Borrowed From The Library

Recommended For: Middle School +, Those Who Enjoy Alternate Histories, Steampunk Enthusiasts

Challenges: Goodreads

First Line: The Austrian horses glinted in the moonlight, their riders standing tall in the saddle, swords raised.

Favorite Line: Maybe this was how you stayed sane in wartime: a handful of noble deeds amid the chaos.

Last Line: But the eggs just sat there, not answering at all. [whited out, for spoiler's sake]

2013 Reads: Forty-Eight (Page - Tamora Pierce}

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Wed, 19 Feb 2014 03:59:00 +0000

I still think that Kel might just be my favorite of Tamora Pierce's characters, ever.

While not my favorite book she's written, I completely enjoyed this one of this series.

WHAT WAS WRITTEN

Keladry of Mindelan, the first girl to apply to train as a knight since Alana the Lioness, is finally a Page. She's finally on equal footing as the rest of her class - equal to the boys in all things. However, she still has three years before she can become a squire and train at the side of an established knight.

Those three years? They're not going to be easy for Kel: A lot of the other pages still want her to fail and go home. In this second installment of The Protector of the Small, Kel continue to stands up to bullies, mean older sisters, and her training master.

WHAT MY BRAIN HAS TO SAY ON THE MATTER

One thing I really appreciate about Tamora Pierce as an author is her commitment to her story. She brings together such a fun and interesting story, but tells it in such a simple way that there is a certain honesty that comes from her prose. You never have to stop and think about what's going on in the story, instead you become completely wrapped up and absorbed by the tale. It's the mark of a wonderful author, in my opinion, and especially for an author focused on a younger audience.

I still think Kel is a brilliant character. Yes, this falls into the framework of your standard hero tale - Kel has to battle the odds to achieve her goal of becoming a knight of Tortall. She has to continually prove herself above and beyond any of her classmates simply because of her sex. And she does it gracefully and with an effort to show anyone who may question her that she is deserving of her rank. She is kind and compassionate and one of the most selfless heroines I've read in a long time. Kel is an admirable hero to any young reader. Or any not-so-young reader.

Lasalla is a wonderful addition to Kel's life; such a means to highlight Kel's goodness and her devotion to those around her. Lasalla had a difficult past and is tentative and shy around everyone in the castle - even Kel at the beginning of the book. It was lovely to watch her open up to Kel and to see their friendship bloom over the course of the story. Similarly, you can't help but love the addition of Jump, the mangy, ugly dog, and the birds who become a part of Kel's life. And her friends who we get to spend more time with from the last book. Particularly Neal, who is still hilarious and all sorts of wonderful.

Joran still gives me the creeps - especially since he seems to be acting all proper and reformed. As an adult this was a total neon sign pointing at him saying "this guy is totally going to be trouble later on!" I'm not sure if I had read this at the targeted age if I would have picked up on it - I think I would have, but who knows. But he was also such a jerk in the previous novel that you go into this book completely inclined to hate him not matter what - even if he truly had reformed his opinion on Kel's presence.

The major drawback of the novel for me was pacing. This book covers the entire four years of Kel's training as a page - a section for each year of her time at court. I understand that it has to be this way to move the story on (as the next book covers her time as a squire and the last book is about her time as a knight). The other option was a book for each year - and while I love Kel, that would not have been the most exciting or interesting series of books. While I understand and appreciate why it moved at the pace it did, I couldn't help but want it to slow down.

Despite that, it's an excellent addition to an amazing series. The Protector of the Small is still, in my opinion, the best series I've read from Tamora Pierce so far. She is not afraid to confront difficult topics in her books, but she approaches them with a tender hand. In Page we see abuse, bullying, death, and discrimination - but they're all discussed in a way that a younger reader can process and learn something from them instead of being slapped in the face by them. It takes a talented writer to handle tough issues in such a positive way.

If you haven't read this series, you really ought to get your hands on these books.

THE NITTY GRITTY

Title: Page (Protector of the Small #2)

Author: Tamora Pierce

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, High Fantasy

Medium: Hard Cover, 272pp

Publisher: Random House Books For Young Readers (23 May 2000)

Date Read: 23 December 2013

Source: Borrowed From The Library

Recommended For: Middle School +, Fantasy Lovers, Those Who Love Strong Female Protagonists

Challenges: Goodreads,

First Line: Fall that year was warm.

Favorite Line: If arrogance were shoes, he'd never go barefoot.

Last Line: Her mysterious benefactor had written, "Gods all bless, Lady Squire." [whited out, for spoiler's sake]

2013 Reads: Forty-Seven {Eleanor & Park - Rainbow Rowell}

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Sun, 16 Feb 2014 01:10:00 +0000

I love when I go into a book knowing nothing about it before I turn the first page. Or, in this case, popped the first CD into my car.

The only thing I knew was that this was supposed to be a good book. And, it lived up to that recommendation.

WHAT WAS WRITTEN

This is the story of two star-crossed misfits who meet on a school bus in 1986. Their paths intertwine almost accidentally, but what becomes of them feels almost like fate. Though they ignore each other at first, these two awkward misfits form a lasting bond of friendship and then, eventually, love. Set over the course of one school year, Eleanor & Park will make you remember just how your young, first love felt and all the crazy things it made you do.

Eleanor and Park are wise enough to know that first love almost always ends, but they're brave enough to try and work it out. Heartbreaking at moments and yet incredibly uplifting in their care for each other, this book brings out the best - and worst - of high school love.

WHAT MY BRAIN HAS TO SAY ON THE MATTER

This book is so difficult to review because it is hard to wrap up why I loved it so much into a coherent stream of thoughts. It's a gritty and real look at life in high school that's wrapped up in the most unlikely, but beautiful love story.

I love both of the main characters. They're so real - awkward, imperfect, flawed, and genuine - and that's something I've really come to love in the books I read. It's so easy to write a perfect, flawless character. But people aren't perfect or flawless. And when an author is able to write a character who is a person? That's just amazing to me.

Eleanor is a chubby, vibrantly red-headed, high schooler with an awful home life. She's brought back to her family after a year being kicked out by her repulsive step-father and has to start over at a new school. She wears hand-me-downs that are too big for her and is bullied at school as well as at home. Park's home life is better than Eleanor's, but things are still challenging for him. He's half-Korean, the only non-white in his school, and a quiet kid who tries his best not to draw attention to himself. And the two of them grow so much over the course of the story. I was rooting for them every step of the way.

I loved that it was set with 1986 as a backdrop. A world full of mix-tapes and taking phone calls on your house phone. A world void of instant messaging and texting and Facebook. A world so close to our own, but still somehow so far away. It was a brilliant move on Rowell's part - to bring our not-so-distant past back to us. Because? Eleanor was bullied - much in the same way many kids are today. For her clothes, her weight, her looks, her everything. Maybe her tormentors didn't have Facebook to constantly harass her (which gave Eleanor a reprieve from her school issues when at home to deal with her home issues), but her life at school was still pretty grim. Maybe we're not so advanced as we like to picture ourselves to be?

It's a heavy novel. There were a few times I had to stop the audio book and listen to some music because I was so anxiously wrapped up in what was going on. I was convinced that something truly awful was going to happen a few times. I yelled at my radio a couple times too - warnings to certain characters. I just wanted to go in and fix everything for Eleanor and Park. I wanted things to be perfect for them in their imperfect world. And that? That is a mark of wonderful writing - that there were so many authentic feelings brought up.

And that ending? Oh. My. God. It was heartbreaking and brilliant and beautiful and perfect. It's a new beginning, even. And it just leaves you with so many questions and so, so, so much hope for their future(s).

THE NITTY GRITTY

Title: Eleanor & Park

Author: Rainbow Rowell

Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary Fiction, Romance

Medium: Audio Book, 7 CDs

Publisher: Listening Library (26 February 2013)

Date Read: 20 December 2013

Source: Borrowed From The Library

Recommended For: High School +, Fans of John Green, High School Romance Readers

Challenges: Goodreads,

First Line: XTC was no good for drowning out the morons at the back of the bus.

Favorite Line: Eleanor was right. She never looked nice. She looked like art, and art wasn't supposed to look nice; it was supposed to make you feel something.

Last Line: Just three words long. [whited out, for spoiler's sake]

2013 Reads: Forty-Six {Throne of Glass - Sarah J. Maas}

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Sat, 15 Feb 2014 01:56:00 +0000

I seriously loved everything about this book.

So much that I have been putting off reading the next book in the series because the third book isn't even close to being out yet. And so much that I don't wan't to rush through the series and have it be over.

I have loved plenty of characters in the past, but Celaena? She is fierce and so, so fantastic.

WHAT WAS WRITTEN

Celaena Sardothian is an 18 year old assassin; the best assassin Adarlan has ever seen. However, she was captured and has spent a year in the salt mines of Endovier doing hard, grueling work. Most don't survive a few months in Endovier, let alone a year. But Celaena is something different than they have ever seen.

However, things seem bleak for her until Dorian, the Crown Prince of Adarlan, drags Celaena out of the mines and gives her an offer: she can have her freedom if she agrees to compete for the position of the King's Assassin. If she wins she must serve a three year term as the right hand assassin for the king and then, after that, she has her freedom. Celaena agrees and returns to the palace with Dorian as well as Westfall, the captain of the guard.

Her opponents are thieves, assassins, and warriors - the biggest and the baddest that Adarlan has to offer. Over the course of the competition she enjoys her training sessions with Westfall, but is bored by court life. Until one of the assassins is found dead - and not during the course of the competition. Celaena needs to figure out who is responsible for the murders before she winds up dead herself.

WHAT MY BRAIN HAS TO SAY ON THE MATTER

This book is so much more than that description is able to get across.

I knew nothing about this book going into it other than one of those little recommendation plates under the book at Barnes & Noble that said "read this one, you won't regret it." I came back to it time after time when I would wander around the store, would pick it up and put it back down. And then I finally picked it up at the library and read it in a few days. I could barely put it down.

Celaena is one of my favorite leading females that I've read in a long time. She's not not your cut-and-dry heroine. In fact, there are moments when you read this book that you're faced with the fact of why do I like this assassin so much? But that's part of it, I think. She's bad. But she's bad with a reason. A purpose. And she kicks some serious ass. And loves pretty dresses. An assassin that wants to get dressed up and go to the palace balls? Her journey through this story, from arrogant prisoner to someone learning to trust is brilliant. Though, I just wish we got to see more of her ass kicking.

I love the world that Maas has created in this novel. Her ability to weave together the images of the landscape and the castle has left me in love with a fictional world that we haven't explored much. Celaena has an eye of an assassin when it comes to her surroundings, but once she starts to feel at home in the castle? That's when the beauty of this world really comes to life. Celaena has missed the world outside of Endovier and her love of the outside world shines more and more as the story goes on.

And I think I even love the love triangle that's going on here. I'm not even sure that it's a love triangle, yet. Dorian is up front and straight forward with his feelings. Chaol keeps his to himself, to the point that he spends a bit of time denying them. However, I love both Chaol and Dorian equally. To the point that I can't even pick a side of who I'd want Celaena to end up with.

And then we have Nehemia, who might just be the coolest character in this book outside of Celaena. I want to talk to you so much about her character, but I don't want to give anything away about her. Just trust me on this, she's gonna surprise you in the end: she'll be the one character you can't stop thinking about.

There is so much more I want to write about this book, but I don't want to give any of it away. Read this one and then let's talk, okay?

THE NITTY GRITTY

Title: Throne of Glass

Author: Sarah J. Maas

Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult, High Fantasy, Adventure

Medium: Paperback, 404pp

Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Children (7 May 2013)

Date Read: 19 December 2013

Source: Borrowed From The Library!

Recommended For: High School +, Fans of The Hunger Games, Those Who Love A Kick-Ass Heroine

Challenges: Goodreads,

First Line: After a year of slavery in the Salt Mines of Endovier, Celaena Sardothien was accustomed to being escorted everywhere in shackles and at sword point.

Favorite Line: "You could rattle the stars," she whispered. "You could do anything, if only you dared. And deep down, you know it, too. That's what scares you most."

Last Line: "Tell me tomorrow." [whited out, for spoiler's sake]

2013 Reads: Forty-Five {First Test - Tamora Pierce}

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Thu, 06 Feb 2014 02:30:00 +0000

I tend to go on a Tamora Pierce binge: once I've put my hands on one of her novels I have to keep reading them. I'm not seeing this as a problem, though. More of just a simple, observable fact.

Because, First Test? I can tell I am going to love Kel and this series as a whole. This could be Pierce's best series yet.

WHAT WAS WRITTEN

No girl had taken up the king's decree that girls had the same right to train to become a knight as boys. The decree was passed after Alana, The Lioness, became Tortall's first ever Lady Knight after years of pretending to be a boy.

But after ten years after the decree this is about to change. Keladry of Mindelan is the first girl to follow in the Lioness' footsteps. Or, at least, she is the first girl to try, as everything and everyone seems to be aligned against her. Including a probationary year at the brginning of her training; something which a boy has never had to face in their training.

But Kel is going to do everything in her power to show Tortall exactly what girls are capable of. Together with her band of friends - knight, animal, and mysterious benefactor - Kel sets out to help pave the way for female knights.

WHAT MY BRAIN HAS TO SAY ON THE MATTER

I thought I loved Alana most as a leading female, and then Daine came along. And then I thought I loved Daine most as a leading female, and now there's Kel. It's going to be hard to oust Kel from that spot though. One of my friends has repeatedly told me that Kel was her all-time-favorite of Pierce's characters, and I can completely see why.

As a whole, this story was a good one. It wasn't great, but it has laid a remarkable foundation for the rest of the series to stand upon. At first glance it seems like a very blatant rewrite of Pierce's first quartet about Alana. But then, it's not. And Pierce does this in such a brilliant way. Because Alana had everything going for her - her magic, the Goddess, and more. And she doesn't struggle through her training because of her sex - to her peers she's just one of the guys. The Protector of the Small is nothing like the Lioness Quartet.

Because we have Kel. And Kel is a brilliant and stubborn character who I totally get her in ways that a lot of Pierces' other characters have escaped me. Kel is vulnerable because she is female and because everyone knows that she's female. The old ways of Tortall are against her - men are knights, and that is that. Where the guys have to prove themselves once, Kel has to prove herself ten times (or more). She is bullied and hazed and many are trying to force her to leave. However, Kel quickly proves that she is as good, if not better, than the boys.

I cannot wait to continue on with this series. I'm excited to watch Kel grow up and to see what becomes of Neal and the rest of her friends. I can tell this is going to be a great series, and I'm excited for that.

THE NITTY GRITTY

Title: First Test (Protector of the Small #1)

Author: Tamora Pierce

Genre: Fantasy, High Fantasy, Young Adult

Medium: Paperback, 240pp

Publisher: Random House (7 June 1999)

Date Read: 16 December 2013

Source: Borrowed From The Library

Recommended For: Middle School +, Fantasy Lovers,

Challenges: Goodreads,

First Line: Alana, The Lioness, the King's Champion, could hardly contain her glee.

Favorite Line: "Romance? Isn't that love stuff?" she asked finally. "It's more than just love. It's color, and fire. You don't want things magnificent and filled with grandeur," he said, trying to make her understand. "You know, drama. Importance. Transcendent Passion."

Last Line: On it was written, "Goddess bless, lady page." [whited out, for spoiler's sake]

2013 Reads: Forty-Four {The Realms of the Gods - Tamora Pierce}

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Thu, 06 Feb 2014 01:45:00 +0000

This is such an amazing closing to a wonderful series.

Seriously, this was just such a fun and perfect way to close out Daine's story.

And, I would still very much like to be Daine. Thanks.

WHAT WAS WRITTEN

During a particularly frightful battle with Skinners, the wild mage Daine and her mentor Numair are swept up into the Divine Realms. While they are grateful to be alive, they are anxious to make their way back to Tortall. They need to get back so that they can fight against Orzorne and his army of strange Immortals.

While in the Divine Realms Daine is finally faced with her parentage. And she must come to terms with where her future path will take her. But, for now, she and Numair must survive their trip back to Tortall. And, if they make it home, all of Tortall will depend on Daine and her Wild Magic.

WHAT MY BRAIN HAS TO SAY ON THE MATTER

I absolutely adored the way this series ended. Wandering around the Divine Realms with Daine and Numair made me realize just how powerful the characterization was in these novels. Yes, there were Immortals and yes there were newly introduced characters, but it's the core set of characters from Totrall that I love so much. And all of them seemed to have made an appearance in this book. And each time I was just so overwhelmed, as if it were an old friend I hadn't seen in a while. Even the characters, like Jon and Alana, who are sort of ever-present in these books, made me realize just how much of a family all of these characters are. Tamora Pierce is a genius, I tell you.

I loved how we finally got to meet Daine's parents - and to see what actually happened to her mother. Yes, I feel like we all knew all along who/what her father was - but it was nice for him to finally be revealed. And it was even nicer that he is kind and caring and loves Daine the way only a father could. Because, really? That could have gone a totally different way. And the end of the book? The decision Daine has to make? I do not envy her for that - I'm not even sure what I would do in that situation.

And there are more dragons! Really, really awesome dragons with dramatic dragon politics and hierarchies. I really loved Pierce's take on the dragons - which, after Kitten, I knew I would if we ever got to meet another dragon. And I am so glad we got to meet another dragon. More dragons, I say! And the ink blots? I loved them - and the whole thought process behind them. To be made one way, but to be able to ultimately have control over your own destiny and purpose. These little guys were the best - and every time we lost one of them my heart broke a little.

However, the climax and the final battle are not all that enveloping or exciting. I feel like it's because we miss so much of what's happening before the battle that it's hard to get into the fight. Being in the Divine Realms makes it hard to get too attached to the hardships going on back at home in Tortall. We spend the whole book wanting to get back that it feels as though that's the whole point of the book. The battle afterwards seems almost like an afterthought. Which is probably the only disappointing part of the novel for me. I expected more for the end of Orzone's terror than this, I guess.

Each time I read one of Tamora Pierce's books I'm saddened that I didn't read them when I was younger. Because, really? I've said it a number of times. Younger Courtney would have been all about these books. I probably would have played make believe where I was Daine and I could talk to all of my pets like they were people (wait, I already did that - I just didn't have a name to give myself). But, Adult Courtney is in love with this world enough to make it up to Younger Courtney. You can bet I'll be reading these books again in the future.

THE NITTY GRITTY

Title: The Realms of the Gods (The Immortals #4)

Author: Tamora Pierce

Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult, Magic, SciFi,

Medium: Paperback, 339pp

Publisher: Simon Pulse (January 2006)

Date Read: 15 December 2013

Source: Borrowed from the Library

Recommended For: Middle School +, Tamora Pierce Fans, Those Who Love Dragons,

Challenges: Goodreads,

First Line: A magical barrier had separated the realms of the gods from the mortal realms for over four hundred years.

Favorite Line: She staggered over to him. "I hurt too much to be dead."

Last Line: Somehow, she had the idea that not everyone would understand.[whited out, for spoiler's sake]

TTT: Get Your Tissues Ready

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 12:00:00 +0000

Okay ladies and gents, get your box of tissues ready. This week's topic from The Broke and The Bookish? The Top Ten Books That Will Make You Cry. Oh wow, this is probably going to be a tear fest, prepare yourself.

1. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak - Holy heck, this book killed me. It was so hauntingly beautiful that I couldn't help but tear up at the end. I also got in a bit of trouble for recommending this book to a friend without a warning about how depressing it was going to be. Whoops.

2. The Time Travelers Wife by Audrey Niffenegger - Oh man. The end of this story? With their child? And that absolute final scene? Wow. I cannot even imagine not tearing up at the end of this book

3. Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson - This book really makes you think. And, while I have not gone through what Melinda went through, I cannot help but have my heart break for her. I can't say why, even with a spoiler alert attached, because you really need to read this book with clean, fresh eyes.

4. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J.K.Rowling - *SPOILER ALERT* Of all the characters in this whole series she had to go off an kill Sirius. Seriously? I was dumbfounded. And I had to reread that scene a number of times in order to actually believe what I had read. This death still haunts me.

5. Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince by J.K.Rowling - *SPOILER ALERT* And then she had to go and kill off Dumbledore? Are you kidding me JKR? Dumbledore? Ugh, I know it had to happen. But it didn't make it any less sad.

6. Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher - This book was so incredibly powerful. Being told the story of why a girl committed suicide by the girl who committed suicide? Oh. My. God.

7. The Giver by Lois Lowry - *SPOILER ALERT* The moment when Jonah gets his first real memory? When he starts feeling war and terror and pain? Those moments when he starts to realize what's going on in his community? And when he rescues the baby that his father is required to kill? This book got to me when I was in grade school and it still gets to me every time I reread it.

8. Marley & Me by John Grogan - You go into this book knowing exactly how it is going to end. As the story of the life of a family's beloved (albeit a little dysfunctional) dog. And yet, I was sobbing on a plane headed back to home from school at the end. Anyone who has ever loved an animal will be brought to tears by this book.

9. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green - John Green is a master at giving you all sorts of feels. It's true. But then he had to go and write a brilliant love story about kids with cancer. And the feels became FEELS and there were so, so many of them to be felt.

10. Kings of Colorado by Davie E. Hilton - The end of this book killed me. Well, actually, all of this book killed me. This is another one I don't want to talk too much about because I want everyone to read it. It's kinda one of those unsung books that deserve so much more praise. And a movie. And discussion. Just know this: I cried through a lot of this book because it was so darn powerful.

So, fun and exciting topic this week, no? Yeah, I know. It brought back so many feelings from some of the most powerful and moving books I have ever read. What books would you guys add to this list?

2013 Reads: Forty-Three {Will Grayson, Will Grayson - John Green & David Levithan}

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Tue, 04 Feb 2014 02:14:00 +0000

I won't lie, I wasn't particularly enthralled with this book.

I mean, it wasn't awful by any means. But it just hasn't stayed with me the way a lot of books do.

It was more like: story ended and I moved on.

WHAT WAS WRITTEN

On a random night, in an obscure Chicago side street, two teens names Will Grayson meet and their paths will forever be interwoven.

As their worlds come together the two Will Graysons are on their way towards romantic changes, new friendships, and the most epic High School Musical ever produced.

WHAT MY BRAIN HAS TO SAY ON THE MATTER

I'll go out on a limb and say that I feel like this book was so much more about Tiny Cooper and his musical than any other character in this book. He's a major character who takes over any scene he's involved in, but in a loving and almost gentle way. And? I basically love his character. He's naive but not in a way that makes him annoying. But in that wide-eyed, why-can't-the-world-be-perfect sort of way. His glasses are forever rose-colored, and I love him for that. And I love the development that his character goes through - from the first moment you meet him until his revelation of the necessary changes to his musical. His character development is, perhaps, the best thing that Green and Levithan came together on in this book.

I also love how Levithan's Will Grayson portrays an honest and raw depiction of how anxiety and depression can affect a person. It's nice to see a character who's not flawless, not perfect. He's not happy-go-lucky all of the time. His family life isn't perfect. But he is still a character we find endearing and seen as being worthy of love - because this is something that a lot of adolescents face (and fear). And it's nice to know that they can read this character and identify with him and feel a little bit better about their future. Green's Will Grayson didn't impress me much. Nor did his relationship with Jane. I can't help it, he just fell a little flat for me.

There was wit and there was sarcasm. And it was fun at times. But it really wasn't that memorable to me at the end. I can totally see why it would be a book that a lot of people would fall in love with. Maybe it's because I didn't identify with many of the characters? Or maybe it was just not the right book at the right time sort of thing.

THE NITTY GRITTY

Title: Will Grayson, Will Grayson

Author: John Green and David Levithan

Genre: YA Contemporary Fiction

Medium: Audio Book, 8 Disks

Publisher: Brilliance Audio (1 January 2010)

Date Read: 8 December 2013

Source: Borrowed From Library

Recommended For: High School +, Contemporary YA Lovers

Challenges: Goodreads

First Line: When I was little, my dad used to tell me, "Will, you can pick your friends, and you can pick your nose, but you can't pick your friend's nose."

Favorite Line: When things break, it's not the actual breaking that prevents them from getting back together again. It's because a little piece gets lost - the two remaining ends couldn't fit together even if they wanted to. The whole shape has changed.

2013 Reads: Forty-Two {The Last Dragonslayer - Jasper Fforde}

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Sat, 01 Feb 2014 18:46:00 +0000

I! LOVE! JASPER! FFORDE!

All-Caps totally necessary.

And I love Jasper Fforde writing Young Adult perhaps even more.

WHAT WAS WRITTEN

In the older days magic was everywhere. It could unclog a drain or ensure the outcome of a war. But today it has all but disappeared from the world. Magic carpets are now used to deliver pizza and some of the best wizards of yore are using their powers to unclog drains and rewire houses.

It is in this world that Jennifer Strange is the de facto head of Kazam, an employment agency for wizards. The owner of Kazam has mysteriously disappeared and with magic drying up, Jennifer must make Kazam run as smoothly as possible while all the employees are at each others' throats.

And then, on top of all of this, the visions start. Across the country people are predicting the death of the last dragon at the hands of an unnamed Dragonslayer. If this is true, things are about to change for Kazan and Jennifer, because something is comimg. Big Magic is coming. And it can mean the end of life as they know it.

WHAT MY BRAIN HAS TO SAY ON THE MATTER

I have no idea why I put of reading this book for so long. I adore Jasper Fforde, so it was only logical that I would, at the very least, enjoy this book. So, I didn't pass over it so often for fear of not liking it. Maybe it was because I hate when I can no longer anticipate a story like this one. Once I've read it, I can no longer read it for the first time again. Whatever the reason, I put this one off for long enough. And I am so glad I finally read it - because I loved every single page. It's a fast-paced, easy read. But you will not regret picking it up and getting lost in its pages. Promise.

It's fun to see Fforde working in Young Adult. I think, with how he looks at things and the amazing, fanciful stories he is able to weave, that Young Adult is particularly suited to him. It is true that at times Jennifer didn't seem like the fifteen years old that we're told that she is - but that can be said for a lot of other leading hero/ines of today's fiction. Harry is 11 when he first runs into Voldy. Percy is 12 in The Lightning Thief when he rescues Zeus' thunderbolt. We expect our leading characters to be of a mental age a whole lot more than what they are biologically. So, yes, sometimes Jennifer seems older, but I'm fine with that. She's fierce, but still insecure. She's braver than most, but things still scare her. She's a wonderful balance. And I loved her character through this novel.

I know I'm not the first to say this, but, I want a Quarkbeast. So much. Wherever Fforde created this magical and squirky creature, I don't know, but man is it awesome. A absolutely adore this ugly little guy.

Maltcassion is brilliant. What a fantastic (and hilarious) dragon. I'd tell you more, but then I'd ruin at least one full chapter for you. Seriously, though. This may be my favorite dragon yet.

Fforde has the remarkable ability to make you fully believe the things he tells you. Marzipan is an illegal and dangerous substance? Check. (PS. I love this part of his novels, akin to the illegality of cheese in the Thursday Next novels. I think it's such a simple yet brilliant piece of the novels). And this world that he creates? I mean, it feels as thought it's one we could totally be living in right now. Magic and all.

THE NITTY GRITTY

Title: The Last Dragonslayer (The Chronicles of Kazam #1)

Author: Jasper Fforde

Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult, Magic

Medium: Hard Cover, 287pp

Publisher: HMH Books For Young Readers (2 October 2012)

Date Read: 2 December 2013

Source: Purchased @ Barnes & Noble

Recommended For: Middle School +, Dragon Lovers, Fforde Fanatics, Those Who Love A Strong Leading Lady, Would-Be Quarkbeast Owners

Challenges: Goodreads, Off the Shelf,

First Line: It looked set to become even hotter by the afternoon, just when the job was becoming more fiddly and needed extra concentration.

Favorite Line: Cats aren't really friendly, they're just cozying up to the dominant life-form as a hedge against extinction.
Favorite Line #2: That's the thing about destiny: It cant be predicted, and it's usually pretty odd.

TTT: Characters I'd NEVER Want To Change Places With. Ever.

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Tue, 28 Jan 2014 21:02:00 +0000

Getting back in the game.

Or, trying to at least.

It's been a while since I've participated in a Top Ten Tuesday hosted by The Broke and The Bookish. But when I read this week's topic, I knew I was back in the blogging mood. Because, really? There are so many characters out there who I adore, but would never in a million years want to trade places with. Granted, this topic also covers worlds you'd never want to live in - and I think my list covers both of these aspects perfectly. Thank you, no thank you.

1. Katniss from The Hunger Games - Because, really? Who would want to be sent into those arenas? And then to have the whole fate of your world rest on your shoulders? And that dystopian future, even if I wasn't Katniss? No. Thank. You.

2. Tris from Divergent - Because, as bad-ass as Tris is, she still lives a pretty crappy life. Even when you add Tobias into the mix. Forced to give up her family for the life she wants - while staying in the same town? I would not want to be her. Plus a whole number of other reasons I cannot put here for fear of spoilers.

3. Finn from Incarceron - Because, that prison scares me. And he's got a lot of things facing him in his future that I would not be able to comprehend.

4. Cassia from Matched - This whole world is a dystopian mess. Your partner is selected for you and you really have no choice in anything that happens to you. Society knows better. Would not want to live here. And I would also not want to have to make the choices that Cassia ultimately makes.

5. Anita Blake from The Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter Series - Because her life scares me! Seriously, she's fun to read about, but I would never, ever want to walk in her shoes. Plus, that world scares me - those vampires, werewolves, etc? They're SCARY.

6. Gaia from Birthmarked - Gaia is sweet and idealistic and I love her. But I would not want to be in her position. To take away other people's babies and advance them to the enclave? Nope, no thank you. And this dystopian future? I don't like this one either, thanks.

7. Eddie from Shades of Grey - I like seeing every color, actually. And this alternative dystopian life? Eddie has his work cut out for him, that's for sure.

8. Sunshine from Sunshine - Ah! McKinley's vampires are scary. And while I think Sunshine is a fantastic character, I would not ever want to be in her place. Constantine is fascinating, but he can stay on paper, thankyouverymuch.

9. Sookie from Dead After Dark - Nope, thanks. She can remain on paper too. I love reading about her, as ditzy and annoying as she can be. I would not ever want to trade places and live in her version of this world. We already have too many politics going on, adding in vampires would just be a mess.

10. Clare from The Time Traveller's Wife - Because, who wants that sort of relationship? Yes, she loves her husband, dearly. And there are a lot of things people will withstand for love. But this? This takes the cake. And I cannot even fathom what it would be like to live a day in her place.

Basically, it seems as though I do not want to live in some sort of dystopian future with an awful, controlling, and cruel government. Check. Let's keep this world as it is, okay?

What about you guys? Who would you definitely not want to change places with? Why?

2013 Reads: Fourty-One {The Ghost Knight - Cornelia Funke}

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Mon, 27 Jan 2014 21:36:00 +0000

What a fun and cute little story.

I am so glad I got my hands on this one, Cornelia Funke has really done it again.

WHAT WAS WRITTEN

Jon is an eleven year old boy who is being sent away to boarding school for the first time, and he feels like it's a way for his mom to get him out of her hair. She has started dating a man who Jon calls "The Beard," a man that Jon loathes.

Once Jon arrives at the boarding school he becomes plagued by a pack of ghosts who seem bent on killing him. The thing is, no one else can see these ghosts except his new friend Ella. It is up to Ella and Jon to solve the mystery of why these ghosts want Jon dead. And in the process Ella introduces Jon to William Longspee, a long dead knight whose ghost happens to reside in the cathedral on the boarding school's grounds. Longspee is sworn to protect all those in need of help, and help is exactly what Jon needs.

WHAT MY BRAIN HAS TO SAY ON THE MATTER

This is such a fun story. I loved listening to it on audio book, as the narrator's voice and interpretation of the characters was just as fun as the story itself. I knew nothing about this story going into it - or even that it was geared at a much younger audience than I was anticipating. It was just on the newly released/recommended shelf at my local library, and since I have loved what I've read from Funke in the past, I figured why not. I'm always really glad when the chances I take on books works out as wonderfully as this one did.

It was interesting that this was a story told from an adult perspective about something that happened to him in his childhood. I thought that it might feel a little disjointed at times because of this, but it wasn't enough to take me out of the story. And, I think it serves the purpose of assuring the younger readers that, since the narrator was still alive as an adult, that he would survive the trials he faced in this story.

I also adored the relationship between Jon and Ella. She is such a fun and headstrong girl. And I particularly loved how often Jon marveled at the fact that he was friends with a girl. Because at ten years old? Boys and girls, for the most part, still have cooties. It was refreshing to have an honest depiction of a friendship at this age rather than the story jump headfirst into an unrealistic romance. He still fumbles and dorks it up around her, but it's so endearing. And he grows so much through this short story, in a completely realistic way.

Other characters I loved: Grandma (so eccentric and fun! what an interesting lady!), The Beard (not gonna spoil anything here), and Longspee (he's awesome, for a ghost. I love his whole story and the development with his character and Jon's along the way).

Overall this was a fun and interesting little story that I would recommend to anyone. The only thing is, despite how much I loved it as an audiobook, apparently the book has some amazing illustrations (which I would love to see). So, pick your format with that in mind.

THE NITTY GRITTY

Title: Ghost Knight

Author: Corneila Funke

Genre: Middle Reader, Fantasy, Ghosts

Medium: Audio Book, 4 CDs

Publisher: Listening Library

Date Read: 30 October 2013

Source: Borrowed from Library

Recommended For: 11+, Lovers of a Good Ghost Story, Those Who Love Knights,

Challenges: Goodreads

First Line: I was eleven when my mother sent me to boarding school in Salisbury.

Favorite Line: We make our best friends in dark times because we always remember how they helped us out of the darkness.

End of Year Book Survey 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Sat, 18 Jan 2014 22:50:00 +0000

I loved filling out this End of the Year Book Survey by The Perpetual Page Turner last year. It was a fun way to review, recap, and look over all the books I had read over the last year. And, as an added bonus, it even got my little blog noticed by an author I really loved. That's always a plus. So, when I saw she was doing it again I knew I had to fill it out for this year. It takes a year and a day to even fill it out, so bear with me as you read it (or, skim through it, whatever your case may be).

BEST IN BOOKS 2013

1. Best Book You Read In 2013?

To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee & Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

Because, really, it's not fair to pit anything against TKAM, right?

2. Book You Were Excited About & Thought You Were Going To Love More But Didn't?

Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld

It's not that it was bad, because it wasn't. I just had some really high hopes for the story (I mean, the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the start of WWI re-imagined in a steam-punk fashion?) but at a lot of points it just dragged on with descriptions of the machinery. I will probably read more of the series eventually because I am interested in seeing where the story goes, but I'm not in any hurry.

3. Most Surprising (In A Good Way!) Book Of 2013?

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

If you read this book you know what I mean. I'm not sure 'in a good way' is the most applicable to this one, but man was I constantly surprised while reading this one. a

4. Book You Read In 2013 That You Recommended Most In 2013?

Girls in White Dresses by Jennifer Close

Because? This book pretty much summarizes and parallels the life of a 20something female. It's brilliant and everyone needs to read it while they're in their 20-30s. Trust me on this one.

5. Best Series You Discovered In 2013?

Divergent by Veronica Roth

I'm still not sure I want to see the movie (what do you mean there's no Uriah in the film!?!), but man was this an intense and interesting series.

6. Favorite New Author You Discovered In 2013?

John Green. Hands down. I'm not sure it really counts as "discovering" him in 2013, as you have to have lived under a rock to not have heard of him before. But, I read my first book by him last year and am now slowly making my way through his works.

7. Best Book That Was Out Of Your Comfort Zone Or Was A New Genre For You?

Cat's Cradle by Kurt Vonnegut

If you look at my list of read books in 2013 this one is totally the odd man out. By far. But it was fun and interesting to read and I'm interested in reading more Vonnegut this coming year.

8. Most Thrilling, Unputdownable Book Of 2013?

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

Oh. My. God. You guys, if you haven't read this book yet you need you. To will devour it and you will be surprised every 5 pages at least. I promise.

9. Book You Read In 2013 That You Are Most Likely To Reread in 2014?

Shadow of Night (All Souls Trilogy #2) by Deborah Harkness

I cannot, cannot wait for the third book in this trilogy to come out later this year. I love everything about this series and this book in particular. I want to be Diana Bishop - heck, I practically am Diana Bishop. Historian? Traveller? Intellectual? Hopelessly in love with Matthew Clairmont? Check! And then you add in time travel back to the Middle Ages with this installment of the series? There is nothing I don't love about this story. And I will probably reread it before the third book comes out.

10. Favorite Cover Of A Book You Read In 2013?

There is just something so simple about this cover before you read it, something that makes it so easy to overlook. And then once you've closed the final page it becomes so much more. It sums up the whole story so perfectly. I love when your opinion of a cover changes through the reading of the story.

11. Most Memorable Character In 2013?

Celaena from Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

Another character I want to be someday. She, simply put, kicks ass. In so many ways. This book might have been my "most recommended book of 2013" if I had read it earlier in the year.

12. Most Beautifully Written Book Read In 2013?

To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee

There really is no competition when this book is in the mix. There is just something so profoundly beautiful about the writing of this story. I loved every line of the story.

13. Book That Had The Greatest Impact On You In 2013?

Girls in White Dresses by Jennifer Close

Because, really? This book is my life.

14. Book You Can't Believe You Waited UNTIL 2013 To Read?

To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee

This one goes without saying. I know.

15. Favorite Passage/Quote Of A Book You Read In 2013?

"Stop trying to be perfect. Try being real for a change." - Shadow of Night by Deborah Harkness

What a perfect, simple reminder for us all.

16. Shortest & Longest Books Of 2013?

Shortest: Satori in Paris by Jack Kerouac (109pp)
Longest: The House of Hades (Heros of Olympus #4) by Rick Riordan (597pp)

17. Book That Had A Scene In It That Had You Reeling And Dying To talk To Someone About It?

Allegiant by Veronica Roth. THE END. HOW I NEED TO TALK ABOUT THAT WITH ANYONE! TALK TO ME ABOUT THIS ONE!

18. Favorite Relationship From A Book You Read In 2013?

Eleanor and Park in Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell

I loved that:
a) there was no love triangle (I am so sick of love triangles in YA novels)
b) that it was honest and awkward and gritty (just like High School actually is)
and
c) that neither of them were perfect (as society expects our characters to be), but they found perfection in each other.

19. Favorite Book From An Author You Read In 2013 That You've Read Previously?

The Last Dragonslayer by Jasper Fforde

It's no secret that I love Jasper Fforde. And this foray into YA? It's just perfection - his humor and wit are ever present, but he weaves a tale suited for a different audience than his previous works. And he does it masterfully.

20. Best Book You Read In 2013 Based SOLELY On A Recommendation From Somebody Else?

Looking For Alaska by John Green

I still can't believe I ignored the recommendation for John Green for so long. Thanks Katie for finally making me read this book!

21. Genre You Read The Most From In 2013?

This pretty much goes without saying, but, Young Adult. And I'm not ashamed.

22. Newest Fictional Crush From A Book You Read In 2013?

Chaol from Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

I adore him. He's perfect without being perfect.

23. Best 2013 Debut You Read?

Shadow & Bone by Leigh Bardugo

I need to get into gear and read #2 soon before story #1 melts into a fog in my brain.

24. Most Vivid World/Imagery You Read In 2013?

Shadow of Night (All Souls Trilogy #2) by Deborah Harkness

There is just something about Harkness's writing that builds the most vivid images in my mind. I felt like I was right there with Diana in Victorithroughout the story.

25. Book That Was The Most Fun To Read In 2013?

Shadow of Night (All Souls Trilogy #2) by Deborah Harkness

It goes without saying on this blog that I love the All Souls Trilogy. I had to make myself slow down and enjoy every moment within this book because it was just so perfect. And so much fun to immerse myself in the world Harkness has created. This is one of those books I really wish I could read for the first time again.

26. Book That Made You Cry Or Nearly Cry In 2013?

The Fault In Our Stars by John Green

Seriously, you guys. Do I even need to explain this one?

27. Book You Read In 2013 That You Think Got Overlooked This Year Or When It Came Out?

Girls in White Dresses by Jennifer Close

In case my argument hasn't been made clear yet: Go! Read this book!

BOOK BLOGGING/READING LIFE IN 2013

1. New Favorite Book Blog Discovered In 2013?

I really got into reading the reviews over at Book Rock Betty this year. Not commenting, mind you, because I was too busy to even write on my own blog. Ha.

2. Favorite Review That You Wrote In 2013?

Probably the one for The Fault in Our Stars by John Green.

3. Best Discussion On Your Blog In 2013?

There hasn't been much discussion round these parts lately (I'm really the one to fault here for that since my online time has really gone by the wayside), so let's just look positively towards great discussions in 2014.

4. Most Thought-Provoking Review Or Discussion On Someone Else's Blog In 2013?

Along with a lack in discussion round these parts, I have also not been the greatest blogger in terms of looking/reading/participating in other blogs. Again, 2014? Hit it.

5. Best Event You Participated In In 2013?

Probably my Goodreads challenge. It may seem silly and simple, but I really pushed myself to read a lot this year and am proud of myself for finishing my goal of 50 books despite an awful summer of reading.

6. Best Moment Of Book Blogging/Book Life In 2013?

Finishing book #50 on New Years Eve. It was so perfect to have finished my challenge at that moment. A little bit of nerves, but so perfect for the year I'd had.

7. Most Popular Post On Your Blog In 2013?

A lot of the Top Ten Tuesday posts got a lot of love, but This One for Top Ten Books Set Somewhere Other Than Here did a little better than the rest, popularity-wise. It was a fun one to write, that's for sure.

8. Post You Wish Got A Little More Love?

My review for Kings of Colorado which has to be one of the most moving books I've read in recent memory. It's just such a brilliant and understated book. Go read this one, okay? (The book, if you want to read the review, that's okay too. But you should really read the book) Note: I read this book in 2012, but the review went up in 2013.

9. Best Bookish Discovery?

The 'scan' feature on my Goodreads app! Seriously! That thing makes putting books I see at the bookstore or library and want but don't want to buy/borrow at that moment into a shelf for "get to these sometime, okay?" so much easier. I love it.

10. Did You Complete Any Challenges and/or Reach Your Goals?

I participated in four challneges, but only completed my Goodreads challenge. And? I'm okay with that.

LOOKING AHEAD

1. One Book You Didn't Get To In 2013 But Will Be Top Priority In 2014?

The Casual Vacancy by J.K.Rowling

If I don't get to this book this year my friend Katie might actually kill me. Plus, I think I'm finally ready to read a non-HP JKR novel. Maybe. I hope so, at least.

2. Book You Are Most Anticipating For 2014? (Non-Debut)

The Book of Life (All Souls Trilogy #3) by Deborah Harkness

3. 2014 Debut You Are Most Anticipating?

I think this is my same answer from last year, but: I don't know. Can you guys suggest one (or a bunch) to me? Please?

4. Series Ending You Are Most Anticipating For 2014?

The Book of Life (All Souls Trilogy #3) by Deborah Harkness - this one really goes without saying, so I won't.

5. One Thing You Hope To Do/Accomplish In Your Reading In 2014?

Complete all my challenges this year.

I went easy on myself this time (minus the Goodreads goal of 50 books again this year), because I don't want to stress myself out too much. Reading is fun for me, an escape. It's something I love and I want to make sure it stays that way.

But man, I want to complete them this year!

2013 Reads: Forty {Thursday Next: First Among Sequels - Jasper Fforde}

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Thu, 09 Jan 2014 02:54:00 +0000

I'm not really sure how I've gone so long without some Thursday Next in my life.

Seriously.

I want to be her if when I grow up.

WHAT WAS WRITTEN

Fourteen years after she pegged out at the 1988 Superhoop, Thursday is again faced with a heap of problems in BookWorld. This time it's an obstinate assistant, the death of Sherlock Holmes, and the humor missing from the Thomas Hardy novels. The thing is - she's supposedly no longer working in BookWorld. Or at least that's what she's told her husband and business associates.

While she is busy dealing with these issues, back in Swindon the government is dealing with a growing stupidity surplus and the Goliath Corporation is somehow coming back into prominence. And on a personal level, Friday (Thursday's son) is refusing any interest in the ChronoGuard. HE would rather sleep the day away than follow his destiny (and Thursday should know what that is, as older Friday's have come to tell her so).

In this new iteration of the Thursday Next series Thursday will be confronted with a laundry list of problems. And in the end she will have to face down her most vicious and formidable enemy yet: herself.

WHAT MY BRAIN HAS TO SAY ON THE MATTER

This next installment of the Thursday Next series is fantastic. First Among Sequels is the first book of the second of her second four-book series and Jasper Fforde has navigated this new territory masterfully. It's fourteen years later and things are different. Friday has grown up to an angsty and emo teenager and has two younger sisters: one named Tuesday (who is both brilliant and full of sass - yes, I love her) and one named Jenny. SpecOps is no longer in existence - on the surface at least - and Thursday works at a carpet company. And on top of that the country's love of reading is plummeting.

I loved how Fforde tackled the can of worms he opened up by writing a novel about a world that exists inside novels: there must be an alternate Thursday who exists within BookWorld. And, surprise! There are more than one of them! It's kind of like taking a jump down the rabbit hole with Alice - there's no telling where you're going. I love how Fforde handled the interactions between the Thursdays and their story lines.

And then the interactions between Thursday and Jenny? They made my heart melt.

And then Harry Potter can't make an appearance at the Council of Genres because of copyright restrictions? It was hilarious and brilliant (and I love how Thursday5 is incredibly excited to meet him. So much to the point that she pulls out a notebook to get an autograph - it's adorable.)

This book is full of Fforde's classic wit and humor and his intense love of books. However, it takes a little while for the reader to get a foot hold on the story. The gap in time is a little hard to grasp at first, but once into the story it's out of your mind. True, this is not my favorite Thursday Next book so far, but I am excited to see where he will be taking the series from here.

THE NITTY GRITTY

Title: Thursday Next: First Among Sequels (Thursday Next #5)

Author: Jasper Fforde

Genre: Fantasy, Mystery, Fiction, SciFi

Medium: Paperback, 362pp

Publisher: Penguin Books (29 July 2008)

Date Read: 29 October 2013

Source: Purchased @ Barnes & Noble

Recommended For: High School +, Literary Nuts, Anyone

Challenges: Goodreads, Off the Shelf, TBR Pile Challenge,

First Line: The dangerously high level of the stupidity surplus was once again the lead story in The Owl that morning.

Favorite Line: Reading, I had learned, was as creative a process as writing, sometimes more so. When we read of the dying rays of the setting sun or the boom and swish of the incoming tide, we should reserve as much praise for ourselves as for the author. After all, the reader is doing all the work - the writer might have died long ago.

Last Line: "It's Thursday," I panted, running to get clear of the airship before it hit the ground, "and I think we've got a situation..." [whited out, for spoiler's sake]

2013 Bookish Review & Looking Ahead

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Sat, 04 Jan 2014 19:03:00 +0000

Here's the short of it: the only challenge I completed this year was my Goodreads Challenge.

All the rest fell by the wayside and were slightly abandoned. I wanted to do them, really, but something(s) just kept getting in my way. And, if we're being honest here (and of course I am) in the end reading a book, any book, was more important to me than trying to read a specific book for a specific challenge. Because, if that had been my focus there would have been a much larger amount of times when I wasn't reading. The pressure, it seems, was just too much for me this year. I did manage to complete about half of each challenge I set out for, though. So, that's pretty good.

So, yes, I read. And I read a lot. 50 books is a lot of books.

And it's the reading that matters in the end, right? Right.

So, this year I will try again.

And I will try to get up those 10ish reviews I still have to finish too. Promise.

50 more books for Goodreads. I was going to up it again, but really 50 was a bit of a challenge for me this year (I literally finished my 50th book the evening of New Years Eve). Maybe if I hadn't had that 3 month summer hiatus where I simply could not get my nose into a book for the life of me it would have been different, who knows. But, there's no reason to stress myself out this year. We'll go for 50 again. And if I go over? Bravo for me!

And then I'm trying the TBR Pile Challenge again. Because I really need to work on reading those books I already own. So, I'm gonna put a little more effort into this one this year. I also did not make up half my list with books over 600 pages. Maybe a less intimidating reading list will be useful?

And then in an effort to spend less money on books I'm gonna try to be a more frequent patron of my library. So, I joined the I Love Library Books Challenge, but kept it simple with a goal of 6 books. This should be easy (I hope). Maybe I'll up that one.

Finally, for fun, I decided to join the I Read Banned Books Challenge. Because, well, why not? It's something I've always wanted to make an effort to do. But to keep my reading levels stress free I signed up for 5 books which have been banned or challenged. Wahoo! Bring on the controversies!

What about you guys out there in the world? What are your reading goals for this year? Anything good on your TBR list?

In With The New!

noreply@blogger.com (Courtney) — Tue, 31 Dec 2013 22:46:00 +0000

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

Here's to a 2014 full of wonder, magic, and a whole lot of adventure!

Ring out the old, ring in the new,

Ring, happy bells, across the snow:

The year is going, let him go;

Ring out the false, ring in the true!

[Alfred Tennyson]