Thursday, December 31, 2009

Review and Interview: The Lonely Hearts Club by Elizabeth Eulberg

Hey guys! I am delighted to be the second stop on debut author Elizabeth Eulberg's blog tour to feature her cute new book, The Lonely Hearts Club! Here is my review of the book, along with a special guest post from Elizabeth herself about her concert experiences!


Tags: middle grade, YA, girl power, romance, friendship, music

Rating: 3 out of 5


Summary

After her childhood love takes her heart and stomps on it, junior Penny Lane Bloom is finally done with those brainless, inconsiderate, selfish jerks known as boys. She starts the Lonely Hearts Club that she will no longer put boys over herself or her friends. News of her club spreads, and suddenly Penny seems to have started a revolution, with over 40 girls from all grades at her school wanting to join.

The girls of the Lonely Hearts Club become good friends and hearty supporters of one another as many of them venture to do things they’ve always wanted to do but we’re afraid to due to peer pressure and societal conventions. Penny should be proud of the “us first!” movement, but there are some romantic snaggles she still needs to work out. Like, what if not ALL high school guys are worthless? Will Penny sacrifice a chance at love just to stay true to the club’s original creeds?

Review

Elizabeth Eulberg’s debut novel THE LONELY HEARTS CLUB is undeniably fluff—but it’s the best kind of fluff, with a likable and realistic protagonist, a predictable yet sweet romance, and an avoidance of typical fluff gender stereotypes.

Penny’s character was deep, no-nonsense, and thus extremely enjoyable. Unlike the typical protagonist in this genre of YA, Penny is happily free of the tendency to obsess over boys or freak out over every little mishap. In fact, the very concept of this novel made sure that it was fluff without the usual “I am nothing without a guy” feel of this genre. Freed of this trope, Penny becomes a remarkably astute, clever, and strong girl, and we like her so much as a result.

The secondary female characters were mostly flat stereotypes and rather annoying. They fail to act as nice counterparts to Penny’s well-developed character. (For the record, “what to the ev” is NOT spoken in real life. And if it is, please stop.) On the other hand, I thought that most of the male characters were interesting to read about, even if their negative qualities tended to be slightly exaggerated in order to justify the formation of the Lonely Hearts Club.

Readers can probably almost instantly pick out Penny’s eventual love interest, but thankfully Penny is not the “love/lust at first swoon” kind of protagonist, and instead we can see the cute, gradual development of their romance and her realization that the original rules of the Lonely Hearts Club can be modified. Most of the plot points contributing to Penny’s eventual eye-opening are cheesy and clichéd, but the strength of the main characters makes sure that this book does not disintegrate into another tries-too-hard-to-be-hip-and-YA chick lit feel-good novel.

Despite the fact that the characters and the plot are rather forgettable, the feeling that this book elicits will stay with you. The core of it is, after all, a story of staying true to yourself and not giving up your identity for the sake of a boy. If anyone wants a quick and easy lighthearted read, I will not hesitate to recommend THE LONELY HEARTS CLUB. A great “fluff” debut!

Similar Authors
Kate Brian (Megan Meade's Guide to the McGowan Boys)
Maureen Johnson

Writing: 3/5
Characters: 3/5
Plot: 3/5

Overall Rating: 3 out of 5


Cover discussion: 2.5 out of 5 - It's a little too Beatles-y for me, as I am somewhat of a purist and dislike gimmicky things, but the overall composition of the cover is cute, from the girls' outfits to the layout of the font. Definitely cute without being too overboard.

Point / Dec. 29, 2009 / Hardcover / $17.99

Thank you, Chelsy, for sending me a copy for review!

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A Guest Post by Elizabeth Eulberg


"On Concerts"


As my deteriorating hearing can attest, I love going to concerts. I average a couple shows a month so it’s really hard to write about a single favorite concert experience. So instead of writing about one concert, I decided to break this blog up into a few different sections (Because I can. Mwaaah, haaa, haaa – I’m drunk with power!).

Best Overall Concert Experience: Without a doubt, if I could only relive one concert experience over again it would be seeing Paul McCartney at Citifield this past July. First because he’s Paul flippin’ McCartney. Second, because every song he played was a classic. Sir Paul performed for nearly three hours (most of the bands I see hardly even play for two!). There were several instances in which I almost cried (especially when he played “Blackbird”) and it will forever be one of the most amazing concerts ever.

Best Concert, non-Beatles category: This was really tough, but seeing Prince at Madison Square Garden a few years ago was fantastic. By the fourth song, I turned to my friend and shouted “Best. Concert. Ever.” I could hardly talk the next day because my voice was so hoarse from singing along to all his classics. I grew up on “Let’s Go Crazy,” “When Doves Cry,” “Kiss,” etc. My favorite part of the show was when Prince was alone on stage with his acoustic guitar and played stripped down versions of several of his songs. That really reminded me of what an accomplished musician he is (and how hopeless I am at the guitar). Runners up: Muse, Green Day, Bruce Springsteen, U2


Best After Concert Experience: I’m a huge Snow Patrol fan. I happen to know someone in their management team and got to briefly meet them last year. This September, they did a concert in New York City and I got to go backstage after the show. The tour manager brought me and my friend to their private room where they were hanging out with their friends. It was very surreal. I have a bit of a crush on the lead singer (that’s an understatement) and he was sitting two seats away from me. We were both having a drink, so I turned to my friend and said, “I’m considering this a date.” They were all very cool and nice guys (especially drummer Jonny Quinn), which is always a relief when you look up to somebody. I waited until we were all leaving to get pictures as I didn’t want to intrude on their personal space. But the best part was when I talking to Gary, the lead singer guy I just had the imaginary date with, he gave me a kiss and said he loved me. So, how can you really top that?

I’ve already got a ton of shows lined up for 2010 and am hoping for a lot more memories. Although I have learned that I need to start wearing earplugs, because what’s the point to going to concerts if you can’t hear the music anymore?

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Thanks for the fun (and funny!) guest blog, Elizabeth! Don't forget to check out The Lonely Hearts Club, available in stores and online now. The next stop on Elizabeth's blog tour will be at Presenting Lenore's on January 4, where Elizabeth will blog about her favorite Beatles songs (how can you resist that?) and host a Beatles-themed giveaway! To see the whole blog tour schedule, which runs until January 20, 2010, check out Elizabeth's blog. Thanks for stopping by today, everyone, and have a happy New Year!

Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Waiting on Wednesday (45)


The Wish Stealers by Tracy Trivas

Griffin Penshine is always making wishes. But when a sinister old woman tricks her into accepting a box of eleven shiny Indian Head pennies from 1897, Griffin soon learns these are no ordinary pennies, but stolen wishes.


This box of labeled pennies comes with a horrible curse: People in possession of the stolen coins are Wish Stealers, who will never have their wishes granted.... In fact, the opposite of what they've wished for will happen. Griffin must find a way to return these stolen wishes and undo the curse if her own wishes are to come true.


But how can Griffin return wishes to strangers who might not even be alive? Her journey leads her to ancient alchemists, Macbeth's witches, and a chance to help people in ways she never imagined, but the temptation of the Wish Stealers' dark and compelling power is growing stronger. Can Griffin reverse the curse in time to save herself and the people she loves?


Tracy Trivas's rich and imaginative début novel introduces a talent as bright and sparkling as Griffin's pennies. [summary from Goodreads]

It just sounds soooo cool. Stolen wishes? A curse? The hint of historical adventure and fantasy? Plus that beautiful cover? This is one middle-grade fantasy I'd love to get my hands on!

The Wish Stealers will be published in hardcover by Aladdin, a division of Simon & Schuster, on January 26, 2010.

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

2009 Book Lists, Pt. The End!

Part 8 and the last part! It's been fun doing this. I've gotten a lot of positive feedback on these lists, and so I'm sure I'll work on them again next year. Hope you enjoyed them!

Most Overlooked
With hype generally centered around a handful of very similar books, these are some spectacular ones I read this year that definitely deserve your consideration.


Eon: Dragoneye Reborn by Alison Goodman
A sweeping fantasy epic of evil ambitious sorcerers, dragons, prophecies fulfilled, and a girl disguising as a boy. On top of it all, the protagonist is handicapped. A truly incredible book that will keep you glued to its world. (also on: For Fantasy/Magic Lovers)

Cycler by Lauren McLaughlin
An extremely odd but oddly touching story about a male and a female that exist inside the same body--and their different desires. (also on: GLBTQ/Gender, Smart Reads, Something Different)


The Sweetheart of Prosper County by Jill S. Alexander
This is an absolutely adorable story of small-town heart in the face of relatable adversity (bullies, dreams of recognition, etc.). Fans of Catherine Gilbert Murdock should definitely read this one! (also on: Best Books By a Debut YA Author, Feel-Good Contemporary Realism)

The Sky Always Hears Me, and the Hills Don’t Mind by Kirstin Cronn-Mills
This little-known debut novel is one of my favorite books now. Featuring a snarky protagonist and a huge variety of teen angsty issues, it might not shoot to the top of your favorites list for everyone like it did for me, but nearly everyone will be able to appreciate the little quirks like Morgan making up fortunes. (also on: Best Books By a Debut YA AuthorGreat ProtagonistsSmart Reads)

Psych Major Syndrome by Alicia Thompson
Meg Cabot blurbed and then blogged about this book back in August or so, and if you like Meg's books, you really can't go wrong with any of her recommendations (she also blurbed and blogged about Malinda Lo's Ash, which completely blew me away, so you can see Meg's range of reading interests). (also on: Best Books By a Debut YA AuthorFeel-Good Contemporary Realism, RomanceMost Crush-Worthy Love InterestsFor Older Teens)

The Spectacular Now by Tim Tharp
A fantastic voice, a cut above the usual YA lit. The crassness and irreverence of Sutter may not be for everyone, but I really liked how it was different from anything I've read. (also on: HumorFor BoysGreat ProtagonistsSmart Reads, Something Different)

Fat Cat by Robin Brande
Smart, funny, and with an utterly good message. Read this and you'll probably start to be put off by the thought of junk food too. (also on: Feel-Good Contemporary Realism, If You Like Sarah DessenSmart ReadsMost Crush-Worthy Love Interests)


When the Whistle Blows by Fran Cannon Slayton
An utterly readable coming-of-age story set in 1940s West Virginia and written from the point of view of a teenage guy. The father-son relationship arc was a little on the light side, but there are plenty of pranks, victories, and tragedies to go around. (also on: Historical Fiction, Give This To Your Parents Too)

Shug by Jenny Han
Jenny Han fully channels Judy Blume in this adorable book about a girl realizing how she just might have to grow up, and that the people she used to trust may be different now. (also on: Middle Grade)

Swim the Fly by Don Calame
Completely hilarious story of three male friends over the course of a summer. There's swimming, bathroom humor (like, literally), a courting grandfather, cross-dressing...and so much more! (also on: Middle Grade, HumorFor Boys)


Something Different
When you need something quirky or different than the norm, consider these books here.

How to Say Goodbye in Robot by Natalie Standiford
A love story that is not a love story, full of radio talk shows and odd adventures by the most unlikely pairing of characters possible. (also on: Beautiful Books)


The Spectacular Now by Tim Tharp
Again, something that's not your usual fare. And trusting by the number of times this book has been showing up on my lists, I think it's time to pass the nonstop recommending off onto Courtney Summers. :) (also on: Humor, For BoysGreat ProtagonistsSmart Reads, Most Overlooked)

Bleeding Violet by Dia Reeves
This awesome Tenner's book is captivatingly original in its voice but with familiar aspects of the supernatural. (also on: If You Can't Get Enough of Vampire Academy, Great ProtagonistsSmart Reads)

How to Ditch Your Fairy by Justine Larbalestier
A cute blend of lighthearted urban fantasy with relatable teenage girl worries. (also on: Humor, POC)

My Invented Life by Lauren Bjorkman
Not your typical coming-out novel. This one's also a blend of theatre geekdom and sisterly tug-of-war. (also on: GLBTQ/Gender)


The Dust of 100 Dogs by A. S. King
This is a swashbuckling tale that spans centuries, worlds, and culture.

Evolution, Me, and Other Freaks of Nature by Robin Brande
How often do you read a book about the religious controversy over the scientific theory of evolution? (also on: Thought-Provoking Reads, Most Crush-Worthy Love Interests)

Cycler by Lauren McLaughlin
Along the same lines, when will you get to read a book about a boy and a girl sharing the same body--actually morphing into one or the other depending on the time of the month? (also on: GLBTQ/Gender, Smart Reads, Most Overlooked)


Genesis by Bernard Beckett
It's dystopian with a twist of court drama, sure to baffle and amaze you. (also on: Thought-Provoking ReadsDystopian/Apocalyptic/Steampunk, For Boys, Use in ClassroomsSmart ReadsFor Older Teens)

And Then Everything Unraveled by Jennifer Sturman
Supporting characters are a little weak, yes, but again, this is not your average teen-girl read, with a twist that involves ecoadventure, political conspiracy, and missing people. (also on: If You Like Sarah Dessen, Smart Reads)


Short Stories
I enjoy novels a whole lot more than short stories, but these (most of which I had to read for class) I could hardly put down. These are nice choices if you are looking for some short fiction.


Ten Little Indians by Sherman Alexie
No one tops Alexie at what he does, which is to infuse his characters with all the appeal and quirks of their Native American culture and make them supremely easy to empathize with and relate to. (also on: POC, Branching Out: Adult Fiction & Classics)

The Complete Stories by Flannery O’Connor
I simply love Flannery O'Connor. She is the queen of irreverence, and her stories would be offensive if they weren't so ironically spot-on true. (also on: Branching Out: Adult Fiction & Classics)

Varieties of Disturbance by Lydia Davis
Only if you're Lydia Davis can you get away with one sentence being a short story.


Drown by Junot Diaz
Haunting prose about Dominicans in and out of the Dominican Republic. (also on: POC, Branching Out: Adult Fiction & Classics)

Lips Touch: Three Times by Laini Taylor
All three stories in this collection are delicious combinations of paranormal, fantasy, romance, and Eastern-flavored culture. (also on: Beautiful BooksFor Fantasy/Magic LoversPOCBeautiful Writing)


So You Want to Start Reading YA
Well, GOOD FOR YOU! Here are some that probably represent what I feel is the best of this genre and will leave you begging for more.


The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Join the craze that's sweeping YA and see if you don't get caught up in this top-notch dystopian read. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009Best Bids for CanonicityDystopian/Apocalyptic/Steampunk, For Boys, Great Protagonists, Use in ClassroomsGive This To Your Parents Too)

Along for the Ride by Sarah Dessen
Another winner from one of the best contemporary YA authors out there. My personal favorite is still This Lullaby, but after AFTR you will surely want to pick up more of Sarah Dessen's books! (also on: If You Like Sarah DessenMost Crush-Worthy Love Interests)

Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld
Readers of all ages, genders, and genre preferences will not go wrong with this one, a wonderful reimagining of alternate World War I history. (Beautiful BooksBest Bids for CanonicityDystopian/Apocalyptic/SteampunkFor BoysGive This To Your Parents Too)

The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly
A Newbery medal-worthy story of a young, smart, and curious girl living at the turn of the twentieth century. (also on: Best Books By a Debut YA AuthorMiddle GradeHistorical Fiction)

Once Was Lost by Sara Zarr
All of Sara Zarr's books are written in direct but effective language and deal with tough issues with no easy answers. (also on: Thought-Provoking Reads)

Purple Heart by Patricia McCormick
Truly one of a kind with its teen male perspective on the Iraq War, written by one of the most powerful and lyrical YA authors of the decade.


When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
The sci-fi concept of time travel incorporated into this classic coming-of-age tale set in post-Vietnam NYC is absolutely incredible. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009Best Books Published in 2009Best Bids for Canonicity, Smart Reads, Most Crush-Worthy Love Interests)

Ice by Sarah Beth Durst
A classic fantasy adventure tale with a delightfully modern AND magic feel. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009Best Books Published in 2009For Fantasy/Magic LoversRetellingsRomanceNight-In ReadsBeautiful Writing, Great ProtagonistsSmart ReadsMost Crush-Worthy Love Interests)

Life As We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer
An asteroid hits the moon, and, well, bad things start to happen on Earth... written as the diary of a run-of-the-mill teenage girl. (also on: Dystopian/Apocalyptic/Steampunk, Give This To Your Parents Too)

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2009 Book Lists, Pt. 1 // Pt. 2 // Pt. 3 // Pt. 4 // Pt. 5 // Pt. 6 // Pt. 7

Return to the Master List of 2009 Book Lists!

Monday, December 28, 2009

Some Girls Are ARC Winner!

At long last, the winner of the apparently much-coveted ARC of Some Girls Are by Courtney Summers (I counted 432 entries total) is.... *nail biting*....

#39 ~*Ruby*~!

Congratulations! I have sent you an email and you have 72 hours to get back to me. I totally wish I could give out more copies of Some Girls Are (it'd be totally worth it), but thank you all for entering! It was a lot of fun reading your comments on my review and interview with Courtney.

Review: The Dark Divine by Bree Despain


Tags: YA, paranormal romance, werewolves, religion

Rating: 3 out of 5


Summary

Pastor’s daughter Grace Divine knows that something is not right with the reappearance of Daniel Kalbi, her older brother Jude’s old best friend and almost-brother, who disappeared one night several years ago—the same night Jude came home covered in his own blood. But she doesn’t expect how embroiled in the affairs she ends up being when she falls in love with Daniel, who possesses a powerful and dark secret.

As Grace struggles to live up to her name and help Daniel love himself, she also deals with Jude’s increasingly disturbing behavior towards her and Daniel, and she must decide where she stands after learning Daniel’s devastating secret. Grace may hold the power to save or destroy Daniel’s soul in her hands—now she must decide how much she is willing to sacrifice for him.

Review

THE DARK DIVINE is an interesting but ultimately underwhelming read that will still be eagerly embraced by paranormal romance fans of Twilight, Shiver, and other similar books.

The best thing about THE DARK DIVINE was the way it rewrote the typical werewolf story and infused it with history, magic, religion, and the balance of good and evil. It gave depth to Daniel’s werewolf character. I’m not a big werewolf girl, nor am I religious, but I enjoyed the way the two unexpectedly intertwined and enhanced one another in this book.

Unfortunately, the characters were for me rather difficult to connect with, as most of them felt like types I’ve read many times before. Grace was an extremely passive protagonist who elicited little sympathy from me. The tension between Grace’s parents often felt forced and unexplained. Daniel started out as stereotypical, but as the plot finally built and his background was finally revealed, he turned into a much more believable character.

As for the romance, it felt like one that I’ve read many times before: good girls feels undeniable attraction with bad boy, who acts like a jerk initially but actually reciprocates the feelings, and True Love Ends Happily Ever After. The familiarity of the course of the romance was unimpressive and rather disappointing to me.

The plot was rather infuriatingly slow, which may put off more impatient readers, but it does eventually build into an exciting paranormal world with an action-packed, heart-stopping ending. It does take an inventive writer to pull off what Bree Despain has as the ending, and I found it believable, heart-stopping, and satisfying. Overall, THE DARK DIVINE was perhaps not the book for me, but fans of Twilight-esque true love paranormal romances will find it a great addition to the genre.

Similar Authors
Stephenie Meyer
Maggie Stiefvater (Shiver)

Writing: 3/5
Characters: 3/5
Plot: 3/5

Overall Rating: 3 out of 5


Cover discussion: 3.5 out of 5 - Not sure what this has to do with the story at all (are those Grace's super-pale-and-skinny legs or something?) but it's still really pretty and attractive.

EgmontUSA / Dec. 22, 2009 / Hardcover / $17.99

Sent for review from EgmontUSA/Random House.

Sunday, December 27, 2009

2009 Book Lists, Pt. 7

Smart Reads
Hey, NPR, smart teens can read YA too. Here are some books that will exercise your brain/wit, make you think, keep you reading, and show naysayers the power and talent that exists in YA today.


Sprout by Dale Peck
A smart(ass) gay teen attempts to figure out his acceptance of himself in his extremely conservative community. (also on: Humor, GLBTQ/Gender)

The Sky Always Hears Me, and the Hills Don’t Mind by Kirstin Cronn-Mills
The irreverent protagonist, Morgan, deals with issues regarding family secrets, homosexuality, and love as she snarks her way through the novel. Very funny, yet touching! (also on: Best Books By a Debut YA Author, Great ProtagonistsMost Overlooked)

Genesis by Bernard Beckett
This dystopian novel is written in transcription format and deals with questions of artificial intelligence and more, with an incredible ending you'll never see coming. (also on: Thought-Provoking Reads, Dystopian/Apocalyptic/Steampunk, For Boys, Use in Classrooms, For Older Teens, Something Different)

Fire by Kristin Cashore
Gorgeous writing expertly weaves questions of feminism and beauty into an already engaging high fantasy tale. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, Best Books Published in 2009, For Fantasy/Magic Lovers, Best Sequels of 2009, Use in Classrooms)

The Ivy League novels by Diana Peterfreund
I love me some witty banter, laugh-out-loud thought processes, smoking romances, and cloak-and-dagger workings. This series has them all! (also on: For Older Teens)

Bleeding Violet by Dia Reeves
Dia basically unapologetically dumps readers right into Hanna's jarring world and her thought process. If you're still hanging on after the first couple of chapters, you'll enjoy this immensely. (also on: If You Can't Get Enough of Vampire Academy, Great ProtagonistsSomething Different)


Fat Cat by Robin Brande
Cat is no dumb, math-and-science-hating teenager. She's good at science, and strikes the perfect balance between being confident enough to be her own person and self-conscious enough to do something to change what she doesn't like about herself. (also on: Best Books Published in 2009Feel-Good Contemporary Realism, If You Like Sarah Dessen, Most Crush-Worthy Love Interests, Most Overlooked)

Vampire Academy series by Richelle Mead
When you want a Harry Potter-like form of literary entertainment, look to this series. Well-developed characters; a variety of winding, interesting, yet all interconnected subplots; a bigger story of good vs. evil. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, For Paranormal Lovers, If You Can't Get Enough of Vampire Academy, Great Protagonists, Use in Classrooms, Tearjerkers)

Poison Study by Maria Snyder
I love when protagonists think of things I wouldn't have been able to had I been in their situation. Yelena is one such character. She's like a role model, the girl I'd want to be if I were in such a world. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, For Fantasy/Magic Lovers, Romance, Night-In Reads, If You Can't Get Enough of Vampire Academy, Best Bids for Canonicity, Most Crush-Worthy Love Interests, Give this To Your Parents Too)

Cycler by Lauren McLaughlin
Bends what we know of gender boundaries, wrapped up in a crazy story with hilarious dialogue. (also on: GLBTQ/GenderMost OverlookedSomething Different)


And Then Everything Unraveled by Jennifer Sturman
Delia's mom disappears on her trip to Antarctica, but Delia suspects there's something shadier going on. The political conspiracy element of this story will blow you right out of the water. (also on: If You Like Sarah DessenSomething Different)

The Spectacular Now by Tim Tharp
Every once in a while you really want a novel that breaks all conventions and expectations. The Spectacular Now is such a novel. Everything from its protagonist to its ending is unexpected, original, and welcomed. (also on: Humor, For Boys, Great ProtagonistsMost OverlookedSomething Different)

Ice by Sarah Beth Durst
Magical yet modern. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, Best Books Published in 2009, For Fantasy/Magic Lovers, Retellings, Romance, Night-In Reads, Beautiful Writing, Great Protagonists, Most Crush-Worthy Love Interests, So You Want to Start Reading YA)

When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
This is guaranteed to make your jaw drop as you frantically read it through the last time, then reread it and savor the uniqueness--all with a great big grin on your face at the whole sci-fi mystery of it all! :) (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, Best Books Published in 2009, Best Bids for Canonicity, Most Crush-Worthy Love Interests, Give This To Your Parents Too, So You Want to Start Reading YA)


Tearjerkers
Granted, I cry pretty easily, but these are the ones I read this year that I distinctly remember myself crying while reading. Sometimes you just want to experience the power of words to bring you to torrents of tears, you know?


If I Stay by Gayle Forman
This should require very little explanation. Mia's entire family is killed in a car accident, and only she remains in a coma. The story is told from "ghost Mia's" point of view as she struggles to decide whether she should just give up and join her family, or whether she should live with the pain and experience life. Keep a box of tissues handy nearby while you're reading this. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, Best Books Published in 2009, Best Covers)

The Actor and the Housewife by Shannon Hale
The emotions I experience when reading this book stand up to multiple rereads. I know what's coming, and yet I still can't help but bawl incessantly for the last third of the book. Really, I almost feel entirely ridiculous for crying nonstop, but I can't help it! That's the power of this book for me. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, Humor, Night-In Reads, Branching Out: Adult Fiction & Classics)

Vampire Academy, Book 3: Shadow Kiss by Richelle Mead
Oh, the heartbreak. Enough said. I knew what was coming and still screamed and wept in horror. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, For Paranormal Lovers, Romance, Use in Classrooms, Smart Reads)


As You Wish by Jackson Pearce
I will admit it freely that I cried at the end of this book when things looked bad. You can get effortlessly involved in the welfares of Jackson's characters, thus provoking that sort of response at the end. (also on: Best Books Published in 2009, Best Books By a Debut YA Author, Feel-Good Contemporary Realism, Romance, Night-In Reads)

Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
Maggie's writing, combined with that utterly heartbreaking moment near the end, lends itself to tears. There's something about the starkness of the writing at that moment that can break hearts. It really shows the power of writing and brevity. (also on: Beautiful BooksFor Twilight Lovers)


Most Crush-Worthy Love Interests
Because sometimes, that makes a great difference. And yes, I'm aware that this list is sadly heteronormative, but you can also check out my "Great Protagonists" list because I would crush on a lot of those characters if I were queer! :)


Nate from Psych Major Syndrome by Alicia Thompson
Nate is SO swoon-worthy. I really can't tell you anymore without spoiling it, so I won't. But suffice it to say that he's a sweetie--even if he doesn't act like it initially. (also on: Best Books By a Debut YA Author, Feel-Good Contemporary Realism, Romance, For Older Teens, Most Overlooked)

Valek from Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder
How many times can I extol the virtues of Valek? If you know me on Twitter and Goodreads, the answer is "nonstop." Dude: he he's a master spy, has ninja-like abilities, and can climb walls with his bare hands *cue sounds of awe* (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, For Fantasy/Magic Lovers, Romance, Night-In Reads, If You Can't Get Enough of Vampire Academy, Best Bids for Canonicity, Great Protagonists, Smart Reads, Give This To Your Parents Too)

Matt from Fat Cat by Robin Brande
There is just something utterly appealing about Matt McKinney, even if Cat doesn't like him. (also on: Best Books Published in 2009, If You Like Sarah Dessen, Smart Reads, Most Overlooked)


Brian from Front and Center by Catherine Gilbert Murdock
I've always been a fan of Brian Nelson, even when he was being an immature jerk. I really like the extent to which he grows in this book, though. (also on: Best Sequels of 2009, Night-In Reads, Great Protagonists)

Bear from Ice by Sarah Beth Durst
You know it's a good story when you fall in love with the animal love interest. But Bear really is the most steadfast, loyal, subtly romantic, and kind love interest. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, Best Books Published in 2009, For Fantasy/Magic Lovers, Retellings, Romance, Night-In Reads, Beautiful Writing, Great Protagonists, Smart Reads, So You Want to Start Reading YA)

Casey from Evolution, Me, and Other Freaks of Nature by Robin Brande
For those who like their crushes outspoken and unashamedly geeky, there's Casey Connor, science genius extraordinaire. Also, I'm spotting a trend with my like of Robin's male characters... (also on: Thought-Provoking ReadsSomething Different)


Eli from Along for the Ride by Sarah Dessen
Eli is a classic Dessen boy, and, while it makes him a little unoriginal, he's still utterly sweet, and might even make it into my Top 3 Dessen boys. (also on: Summery Friendship Reads, If You Like Sarah DessenSo You Want to Start Reading YA)

Po from Graceling by Kristin Cashore
I LOVE the romance between Katsa and Po. I love how Katsa goes from being incapable of love to being able to love. Po is just the right guy for that task: always patient, yet determined, and yet also vulnerable. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, For Fantasy/Magic Lovers)

Marcus from When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
This is really subtle and probably unintentional on the author's part, but I really liked Marcus. First of all, it's the name. (Marcus Flutie as the epitome of enigmatic love interests, anyone?) But he's also an interesting, slightly geeky character in and of himself. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, Best Books Published in 2009, Best Bids for Canonicity, Smart Reads, Give This To Your Parents Too,So You Want to Start Reading YA)


For Older Teens
The news this year is that a new genre, "New Adult," is forming, which deals with college-age characters and related issues. These are a few that I think would fit into that category, or that would appeal to "older" teens or college-age students who still love YA and would never want to give it up.


The Ivy League novels by Diana Peterfreund
Secret societies in college, with all the romantic entanglements, intrigue, and useless wit of college life. (also on: Smart Reads)

Some Girls Are by Courtney Summers
Brutal, uncomfortable, and haunting. (also on: Thought-Provoking Reads, Best Covers)

Psych Major Syndrome by Alicia Thompson
A girl's first semester in college. It has less to do with college life and psychology than it has to do with a simple "girl realizes her love mistakes and finds true romance" story, but it is enjoyable nonetheless, and well written. (also on: Best Books By a Debut YA Author, Feel-Good Contemporary Realism, Romance, Most Crush-Worthy Love Interests, Most Overlooked)


Sunshine by Robin McKinley
This unusual vampire tale boasts sometimes excessive descriptions, but a great voice and wonderful main characters. (also on: For Paranormal Lovers, If You Can't Get Enough of Vampire Academy)

Genesis by Bernard Beckett
A curious and unique dystopian novel that will leave you with many questions but delight the well-read dystopian reader. (also on: Thought-Provoking Reads, Dystopian/Apocalyptic/Steampunk, For Boys, Use in Classrooms, Smart Reads, Something Different)


Give This to Your Parents Too
If you want to give them a sample of what you're reading, these are sure to make them happy!


The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly
(also on: Best Books By a Debut YA Author, Middle Grade, Historical FictionSo You Want to Start Reading YA)

When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
(also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, Best Books Published in 2009, Best Bids for Canonicity, Smart Reads, Most Crush-Worthy Love Interests, So You Want to Start Reading YA)

Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld
(also on: Beautiful Books, Best Bids for Canonicity, Dystopian/Apocalyptic/Steampunk, For BoysSo You Want to Start Reading YA)

When the Whistle Blows by Fran Cannon Slayton
(also on: Historical FictionMost Overlooked)

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Well, DON'T give it to them if they're easily sensitive to, you know, violence and dying and stuff. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, Best Bids for Canonicity, Dystopian/Apocalyptic/Steampunk, For Boys, Use in ClassroomsSo You Want to Start Reading YA)


Undercover by Beth Kephart
(also on: Beautiful Writing)

Life As We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer
(also on: Dystopian/Apocalyptic/SteampunkSo You Want to Start Reading YA)

Poison Study by Maria Snyder
(also on: Best Books I Read in 2009For Fantasy/Magic LoversRomanceNight-In ReadsIf You Can't Get Enough of Vampire AcademyBest Bids for CanonicityGreat Protagonists, Smart Reads, Most Crush-Worthy Love Interests)

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2009 Book Lists, Pt. 1 // Pt. 2 // Pt. 3 // Pt. 4 // Pt. 5 // Pt. 6 // Pt. 8

Back to the Master List of 2009 Book Lists!

Saturday, December 26, 2009

Review: Secrets of a Christmas Box by Steven Hornby


Tags: juvenile fiction, middle grade, Christmas, adventure, magic, read-aloud

Rating: 1.5 out of 5


Summary

Deep in the recesses of one family’s Christmas tree, many ornaments are waking up from their year-long nap. When Larry the Snowman discovers that his brother is missing from the tree, he sets off with his friends—his girlfriend, Debbie the Reindeer Woman, the devoted Tinsel, and newcomer Splint—on a never-before-done adventure: they are going to leave the tree to find out what happened to Larry’s brother. What they discover is much more sinister than they could ever imagine, and it’s up to the brave ornaments to save the day for them all…or die trying.

Review

SECRETS OF A CHRISTMAS BOX is another of those books that is difficult to market. At around 200 pages full of mostly text, it’s too advanced for a toddler or early elementary school kid which is probably the ideal audience for this story. The occasional small illustration will not satisfy the young audience’s desire for literary participation. And the infantilizing tone of the book will turn away older readers.

Perhaps the best thing one can do with this book is to have it as a holiday read-aloud, or a bedtime story for really young children. The author is a pretty successful writer for the silver screen, but his tendencies to “write young” show in the clichéd dialogue: the human parents of the house in which the tree is located, for example, only address one another as “love” and talk of mundane subjects that come straight out of a fifties TV sitcom like Leave It to Beaver. Indeed, Hornby’s original idea had been to write this story as a screenplay for an animated film, and I believe it would’ve worked a lot better that way. Little kids would be much more entertained if the cheesy story and writing were accompanied by cool animated effects.

It was a cute idea, but it’s extremely difficult to get past the writing to grasp the themes of this book. Parents and guardians of young children can consider this as a cute little story to read by the fireplace (you can really ham up the voices with this dialogue), but those who don’t have small children may want to pass on this one.

Writing: 1/5
Characters: 1/5
Plot: 2/5

Overall Rating: 1.5 out of 5


Ecky Thump Books / Sept. 2009 / Hardcover / $18.95

Received for review from Ecky Thump Books, Inc.

Thursday, December 24, 2009

2009 Book Lists, Pt. 6

I'm taking a break from doing these lists tomorrow, Christmas (seriously, each of these lists take, like, several hours to put together. I had no idea they'd take so much work--or be so fun to share!), so enjoy and for those of my blogger friends who celebrate, have a very MERRY CHRISTMAS!!! (If you don't celebrate, have a good Friday anyway!) I think my Christmas should be quite good this year; will let you all know tomorrow... :)


For Boys
An unfortunately low percentage of all YA books published appeal to most male readers. These here are some of the finest, so that the boys get to experience the awesome that is YA as well. Most of these I've run by my brothers, so they've got actual male backup.


The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
The dystopian, kids-killing-kids-for-a-game element appears to both genders. Even the cover is simple enough that boys won't be embarrassed to carry it around with them. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, Best Bids for CanonicityDystopian/Apocalyptic/Steampunk, Great Protagonists, Use in Classrooms, Give This To Your Parents TooSo You Want to Start Reading YA)

The Maze Runner by James Dashner
Another dystopian novel, this one features a male protagonist and plenty of action, mystery, and danger to keep readers riveted. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, Best Books Published in 2009Dystopian/Apocalyptic/Steampunk, Horror/Creepy)

Battle Royale by Koushun Takami
If you're mature enough and can't wait for the third Hunger Games novel to hit next summer, check this one out in the meantime. It's got a similar concept, but is much more intense, and yet it is just as hard to look away from all the gore and horror. (also on: Dystopian/Apocalyptic/Steampunk, Horror/Creepy)

Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld
You can never go wrong with a Scott Westerfeld book. Never. There is one male and one female protagonist, but their friendship and possible sortofmaybecouldbe romantic attraction is unintrusive and does not overshadow the wonderful fight and survival scenes. (Beautiful Books, Best Bids for Canonicity, Dystopian/Apocalyptic/SteampunkGive This To Your Parents TooSo You Want to Start Reading YA)


Swim the Fly by Don Calame
For the practical jokester who likes contemporary novels. This story of three friends spans a summer of hilarious mishaps and plans gone awry, with unexpectedly happy results. (also on: Middle Grade, HumorMost Overlooked)

Hunger: a Gone Novel by Michael Grant
If you're not tired of dystopian novels, the Gone series is a great one to pick up. What happens when a bunch of kids are left to their own devices in a zone where strange supernatural things happen? Find out. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, Best Sequels of 2009Dystopian/Apocalyptic/Steampunk)

Food, Girls, and Other Things I Can’t Have by Allen Zadoff
Andrew's voice is great, and this book will surely provide more than a few chuckles as readers empathize with Andrew's struggle to find a place for his heavy self. (also on: Feel-Good Contemporary Realism, Humor)

Genesis by Bernard Beckett
A thought-provoking, mind-exploding read about a civilization eerily similar to our own. It's a short book, so you can read it in a few hours, and then spend the next couple of days trying to talk it all out. (also on: Thought-Provoking ReadsDystopian/Apocalyptic/Steampunk, Use in Classrooms, Smart ReadsFor Older TeensSomething Different)

The Spectacular Now by Tim Tharp
Sutter is a little like a modern-day Holden Caulfield, except, you know, less whiny and more likable. For those who like their characters irreverent, deeply flawed, but still irresistible, check him out! (also on: Humor, Great Protagonists, Smart ReadsMost OverlookedSomething Different)

Project Sweet Life by Brent Hartinger
Another story about three friends, only they're trying to raise enough money so that they don't actually have to have a real summer job. You won't believe the lengths to which they will go, but middle school boys will get a kick out of them. (also on: Middle Grade)


Horror/Creepy
Not a genre that I read very much, but these will make you squirming, cringing, looking over your shoulder, and starting at little sounds.


The Devouring series by Simon Holt
Legend goes that there is a "race" of evil spirits that attempt to possess you when you are most frightened. A little bit like Goosebumps for the older set. It's not a bad read if you want to be frightened.

Bad Girls Don’t Die by Katie Alender
Alexis begins to think that her younger sister is being possessed. There are some things about their old house that just don't feel right...and what is up with the creepy dolls? Wonderfully unique and addicting.

Battle Royale by Koushun Takami
See above! This one is definitely not for the weak-stomached. *grins* (also on: Dystopian/Apocalyptic/Steampunk, For Boys)


The Maze Runner by James Dashner
Dude, the Grievers are pretty darn scary. Also... see above! (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, Best Books Published in 2009Dystopian/Apocalyptic/Steampunk, For Boys)

The Waking: Dreams of the Dead by Thomas Randall
A twist on what we know of vampires, set in Japan and infused with its rich culture.


Great Protagonists
These books contain some of the best protagonists I've read this year. You'll either want to be them, or you'll want to fall in love with them.


Yelena from Poison Study by Maria Snyder
Yelena is, simply put, awesome. Thrust in a terrible situation, she nevertheless uses her smarts, skills, and bravery to carve an identity for herself out of the oppression. You'll gasp and thrill at everything she gets into, and part of you will want to be her. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, For Fantasy/Magic Lovers, Romance, Night-In Reads, If You Can't Get Enough of Vampire Academy, Best Bids for CanonicitySmart ReadsMost Crush-Worthy Love InterestsGive This To Your Parents Too)

Rose from the Vampire Academy series by Richelle Mead
Rose is far from a damsel in distress, needing to be rescued by the Big and Beautiful Male Protector. She is unafraid to kick butt, and that is in fact perhaps one of the greatest strengths of this series, and why her romance with Dimitri is so much more appealing and balanced. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, For Paranormal Lovers, Romance, If You Can't Get Enough of Vampire AcademySmart ReadsTearjerkers)

Nick from The Demon’s Lexicon by Sarah Rees Brennan
Okay, Nick is far from the nice guy. In fact, you'd rather forget all about him if that were possible, since you can tell he's nothing but trouble. But you simply cannot stay away from him. He's got an attitude and demons haunting him, but his loyalty to his brother is unfailing, and it's amazing how we all like him despite his often soulless tendencies. (also on: Best Books Published in 2009, Best Books By a Debut YA Author, If You Can't Get Enough of Vampire Academy)


Sutter from The Spectacular Now by Tim Tharp
One of the strongest voice-driven YA books out there. We are immersed completely in Sutter's thinking, even if we may disagree with a lot of his values. But because of our closeness to him via his voice, we are able to better understand why he acts that way, and even like him as a result. (also on: Humor, For Boys, Smart ReadsMost OverlookedSomething Different)

Savannah from Breathing by Cheryl Renee Herbsman
Another book with a great voice. There is a distinctly but not cloying Southern feel to the whole story, and even though she may get hung up over Jackson way too often, you still can't help but feel as if her feelings for him are justified. (also on: Best Books By a Debut YA Author)

Katniss from The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Oh man. How do I begin to list the ways in which Katniss is a great protagonist? She's feisty and socially awkward, but she's also powerfully determined, resourceful, and determined to survive. You've got to admire someone with her spirit in such a situation as she is in. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, Best Bids for CanonicityDystopian/Apocalyptic/Steampunk, For Boys, Use in Classrooms, Give This To Your Parents TooSo You Want to Start Reading YA)


Morgan from The Sky Always Hears Me, and the Hills Don’t Mind by Kirstin Cronn-Mills
Morgan's another irreverent yet utterly appealing character. She has her quirky solitary tendencies but she's also interesting around people, so that we never tire of spending time with her--not when she's making up so many great and odd fortunes! (also on: Best Books By a Debut YA AuthorSmart ReadsMost Overlooked)

Cassie from Ice by Sarah Beth Durst
Cassie is a modern heroine: she's smart, capable, and stubborn. She's also a timeless heroine: reluctantly but deeply romantic, loyal, and brave in the face of seemingly impossible adversaries. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, Best Books Published in 2009, For Fantasy/Magic Lovers, Retellings, Romance, Night-In Reads, Beautiful WritingSmart ReadsMost Crush-Worthy Love InterestsSo You Want to Start Reading YA)

Gianna from The Brilliant Fall of Gianna Z by Kate Messner
Seventh-grader Gianna will make everyone fall at her feet, with her relatable voice, worries over her family, and perpetual inability to stay on top of her science project. (also on: Middle Grade, Best Covers)


D.J. from Front and Center by Catherine Gilbert Murdock
Okay, so maybe at this point you're sick and tired of D.J.'s low self-confidence, her self-deprecation, and her inability to speak up for herself in social situations. But it's also her absolutely true tomboyishness that keeps us attached to her and coming back to see her grow and mature. (also on: Best Sequels of 2009, Night-In ReadsMost Crush-Worthy Love Interests)

Hanna from Bleeding Violet by Dia Reeves
Hanna is special, and not just because she's got bipolar disorder. She's wonderfully removed from typical high school social angst, which allows us to concentrate on her and her interactions with those who matter around her. (also on: If You Can't Get Enough of Vampire AcademySmart ReadsSomething Different)


Use in Classrooms
Who says YA wouldn't be great books to read as a class? Here are just a few that may provide hours' worth of discussion (though I haven't yet figured out how they might be able to tie in with great classics; but maybe they can be used in, like, History classes, or Ethics classes?)


Ballads of Suburbia by Stephanie Kuehnert
I really wish this could be a must-read for all teen girls, especially those living in high-risk environments. It would help so much if they knew they weren't the only ones going through what they're going through, like Kara, and I think more adults could stand to have their eyes opened to the all-too-real dark side of suburbia. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, Best Books Published in 2009, Thought-Provoking Reads)

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Well, you might just want to ask Adele how she used this in her class, lol. Interesting discussions about government control, the horrifying future possibilities of reality TV, and the role of violence in control. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, Best Bids for CanonicityDystopian/Apocalyptic/Steampunk, For Boys, Great Protagonists, Give This To Your Parents TooSo You Want to Start Reading YA)

Fire by Kristin Cashore
This one has a much more distinctly feminist angle than Graceling, and it's a great one. Why is there a difference in the way male vs. female beauty is accepted, viewed, and used? What is the role of beautiful women in society, and how is beauty so hated? (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, Best Books Published in 2009, Best Sequels of 2009, For Fantasy/Magic LoversSmart Reads)


Vampire Academy series by Richelle Mead
Yes, it's an entertaining and terrifically written vampire society story, but it also has thought-provoking class issues. Why must the dhampir be willing to give their lives to protect the Moroi, and why do the Moroi not use their considerable magic powers? All interesting questioned that will hopefully be further explored in future books in the series. It must. I mean, how can it not be? It's so prevalent in the books! If there's not a complete usurpation of the vampire caste system by the time the series ends, I will be shocked and greatly disappointed. (also on: Best Books I Read in 2009, For Paranormal Lovers, Romance, If You Can't Get Enough of Vampire AcademySmart ReadsTearjerkers)

Genesis by Bernard Beckett
Questions about what might happen if artificial intelligence eventually overpowers humans have always been around. Genesis brings these issues up, along with shocking actions. You will not be able to stop debating this. (also on: Thought-Provoking Reads, Dystopian/Apocalyptic/Steampunk, For Boys, Smart ReadsFor Older TeensSomething Different)


Best Covers
Yes, these are only of the books that I read in 2009, and they're my taste, which, admittedly, I have not seen in very many other places. However, aren't all of these covers undeniably beautiful? Would they compel YOU to take an interest in the book?

  
  
  
  

Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
Eyes Like Stars by Lisa Mantchev
Ash by Malinda Lo
Hold Still by Nina LaCour
Some Girls Are by Courtney Summers
Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl
If I Stay by Gayle Forman
Jessica’s Guide to Dating on the Dark Side by Beth Fantaskey
Ballads of Suburbia by Stephanie Kuehnert
Willow by Julia Hoban
The Brilliant Fall of Gianna Z by Kate Messner
Daughter of the Flames by Zoe Marriott

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Go back to 2009 Book Lists, Pt. 1 // Pt. 2 // Pt. 3 // Pt. 4 // Pt. 5 // Pt. 7 // Pt. 8

Back to the Master List of 2009 book lists!

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