Book Review: Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee

Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee
Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication date: July 2015
Pages: 278
Source: Library
For: Harper Lee, duh!
Series: Sequel to To Kill a Mockingbird

Summary (from goodreads):

Maycomb, Alabama. Twenty-six-year-old Jean Louise Finch--"Scout"--returns home from New York City to visit her aging father, Atticus. Set against the backdrop of the civil rights tensions and political turmoil that were transforming the South, Jean Louise's homecoming turns bittersweet when she learns disturbing truths about her close-knit family, the town and the people dearest to her. Memories from her childhood flood back, and her values and assumptions are thrown into doubt. Featuring many of the iconic characters from To Kill a Mockingbird, Go Set a Watchman perfectly captures a young woman, and a world, in a painful yet necessary transition out of the illusions of the past--a journey that can be guided only by one's conscience. 

Things I Liked:
I enjoyed a number of parts of this book.  I really liked seeing Scout and just who she had grown up into and the funny things she said and thought.  I loved that part of her.  I really struggled with what the story was actually about, her seeing the truth of her hometown and father and not idolizing them anymore.  It was hard to read, hard for me to understand, and just not what I wanted to read, I guess.  It was a smart book, and definitely changes your perspective and thoughts in relation to To Kill a Mockingbird.  Still, I found as it went on that I wasn't much enjoying my read.  I did like it, but I didn't like it too.  Makes perfect sense, right? I read the book probably six months ago, but I'm only posting it now, just in time to hear of Harper Lee's death. Wish we had more from her!

Things I Didn't Like:
Think I covered both in the previous paragraph.

Read-alikes:
Well I'd start with To Kill a Mockingbird...and maybe end there too :)

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
a few

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->
maybe a little off-page

Overall rating: ***

Book Review: The Princess in Black by Shannon Hale

The Princess in Black by Shannon Hale
Publisher: Candlewick Pres
Publication date: October 2014
Pages: 90
Source: Library
For: Fun
Series: The Princess in Black, Book 1

Summary (from goodreads):

Princess Magnolia is having hot chocolate and scones with Duchess Wigtower when . . . Brring! Brring! The monster alarm! A big blue monster is threatening the goats! Stopping monsters is no job for dainty Princess Magnolia. But luckily Princess Magnolia has a secret —she’s also the Princess in Black, and stopping monsters is the perfect job for her! Can the princess sneak away, transform into her alter ego, and defeat the monster before the nosy duchess discovers her secret? From award-winning writing team of Shannon and Dean Hale and illustrator LeUyen Pham, here is the first in a humorous and action-packed chapter book series for young readers who like their princesses not only prim and perfect, but also dressed in black.

Things I Liked:
Yes! I love this book.  Short, silly, fun, quirky, and best of all it can easily help little girls feel like they can have the best of both worlds - pretty dress ups and fighting bad guys.  I feel like I love this book even more because of Shannon's extensive blogging about girls and boys and writing and stereotypes.  But really, just get this book for every young girl you know. 

Things I Didn't Like:
Want. More.

Read-alikes:
Nothing comes to mind...

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: none

Overall rating: *****

Book Review: As Chimney Sweepers Come to Dust by Alan Bradley

As Chimney Sweepers Come to Dust by Alan Bradley
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Publication date: January 2015
Pages: 392
Source: e-book from library
For: Flavia!
Series: Flavia de Luce, Book 7

 
Summary (from goodreads): *Spoilers are inevitable for the first 7 books*

Hard on the heels of the return of her mother’s body from the frozen reaches of the Himalayas, Flavia, for her indiscretions, is banished from her home at Buckshaw and shipped across the ocean to Miss Bodycote’s Female Academy in Toronto, her mother’s alma mater, there to be inducted into a mysterious organization known as the Nide.

No sooner does she arrive, however, than a body comes crashing down out of the chimney and into her room, setting off a series of investigations into mysterious disappearances of girls from the school.

Things I Liked:
More Flavia! It was different, what with being in a completely different setting.  It was kind of fun to see her try to figure things out in her school.  I got rather confused a number of times, since I could never tell which student or teacher to rely on.  At least at home she could depend on certain people to be good, but here everyone was a suspect.  It was a boarding school romp for Flavia and such fun for me to read.

Things I Didn't Like:
The ending left me a bit confused - why did she go there in the first place? I'm trying not to spoil it, though I doubt it would ruin the story, but it seemed like everything was negated by the ending.  I'm hoping for more, just so I can read more Flavia.

Read-alikes:
Start with The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
maybe one or two

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->
there's a bit of the macabre

Overall rating: ****

Book Review: I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai and Christina Lamb

I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban by Malala Yousafzai and Christina Lamb
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company
Publication date: October 2013
Pages: 352
Source: Library
For: Fun

Summary (from goodreads):

I come from a country that was created at midnight. When I almost died it was just after midday.

When the Taliban took control of the Swat Valley in Pakistan, one girl spoke out. Malala Yousafzai refused to be silenced and fought for her right to an education.

On Tuesday, October 9, 2012, when she was fifteen, she almost paid the ultimate price. She was shot in the head at point-blank range while riding the bus home from school, and few expected her to survive.

Instead, Malala's miraculous recovery has taken her on an extraordinary journey from a remote valley in northern Pakistan to the halls of the United Nations in New York. At sixteen, she has become a global symbol of peaceful protest and the youngest-ever Nobel Peace Prize laureate.

Things I Liked:
What a beautiful story! I love how down to earth Malala and her father sound, yet they are making an extraordinary difference in their country.  Her story makes you think you could stand up and make a difference too.  She is inspiring in her tireless efforts to not back down when told to stop going to school.  I'm amazed at her courage and strength, especially for one so young.

Things I Didn't Like:
It wasn't the most well-written book, but I think that is part of what makes you feel like you connect well with her.

Read-alikes:
Nothing I can think of...

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none 

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->->
she kind of lives with violence in her part of the world

Overall rating: *****

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Keeping the Castle by Patrice Kindl

Keeping The Castle by Patrice Kindl
Publisher: Penguin (Viking Juvenile)
Publication date: June 2012
Pages: 272
Source: Library
For: Fun

Althea is in need of a rich man to marry.  In order to care for her widowed mother, two dependent step-sisters, and to keep her younger brother's inheritance, she must find someone quick to keep the castle from falling apart.  There don't seem to be too many eligible rich gentleman in Lesser Hoo, until Lord Boring comes to the neighborhood.  Althea is determined to have him, despite his annoying friend, Mr. Fredericks. 

Things I Liked:
This was a perfect read for me at this time.  I was desperately in need of something lighter and funner and happier (after a few dark, sad books).  Kindl delivered!  I loved reading about the escapades of Althea and how she couldn't seem to keep her mouth shut when she needed to.  I loved how she was able to grow and change over the course of the story, especially in regards to her motivations.  The cast of characters is fun, if many of them aren't really well-developed at all.  It was a light and happy story and just what I needed.

Things I Didn't Like:
Yeah, there are some characters who are pretty much stand-ins.  I was most interested in Althea and Miss Vincy, who both seemed an intriguing kind of woman for that time period.  I found that I didn't even much care that I knew how it would end and why (well, most of it) and that it was so neatly done.  I just thoroughly enjoyed the quirky characters and fun Austen feel.  Despite its 17-year-old character, this would be a perfect read for tweens and younger who love that sweet romance and regency feel.

Read-alikes:
I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen (or really any Austen)

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: none

Overall rating: ****

This is my first Patrice Kindl book, but I've heard great things about her other books - what should I read from her next?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers

Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children
Publication date: April 2012
Pages: 560
Source: e-book from NetGalley
For: Review
Series: His Fair Assassin, Book 1

When Ismae was born, she was marked as the daughter of Death. So when she ends up at the convent devoted to St. Mortain, she is welcomed with open arms and trained as an assassin to deal death to those who are marked to die. But an assignment to protect the young Duchess of Brittany might just test her loyalty to the Sisters against the feelings of her heart.

Things I Liked:
What I think stuck out to me the most in this book is the intricate plot and complicated heroine.  I love the idea (I mean, who didn't perk up at the idea of assassin nuns?) and I really enjoyed watching Ismae's progression from her oppressed home to powerful assassin to compassionate woman.  The politics and the twisty slippery villains and plots kept me interested and reading to know just what would happen next.  I especially love how nothing is easy for Anne - it would seem nice to have a convenient way out of all her troubles, but she doesn't and I like it, even as I wished it would happen.  I suppose that is because she was a real person and real stories don't often have convenient endings.  There is so much in this book that I can't even talk about all of it and do it justice (plus the numerous beautifully expressed reviews I've read about it make that even more daunting).  But I think the court maneuevering and political machinations were my favorite things.  Despite having seen who the villain was well in advance, I was intrigued enough to continue to the end.  Another fabulous historical fiction, again reminding me just how much I like the genre!

Things I Didn't Like:
It did get a bit long.  I took a lot of long breaks (most of them not of my own choosing), so that might have affected how smoothly the book flowed for me.  I was also a touch annoyed by the somewhat convenient and slightly strange way Ismae manages to save someone near the end.  Definitely not a book for younger teens, what with the mature themes.  Otherwise, I pretty much enjoyed it, especially the parts where she plays the defenseless girl but instead kicks the bad guys around.  Never gets old.

Read-alikes:
Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder
Poison by Sara Poole

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@ 
a few

mrg-factor: XX
implied, not described in detail, but it does happen

v-factor: ->->
she is an assassin so death happens, sometimes in gruesome ways

Overall rating: **** 

I've seen lots of great recommendations for courtly intrigue books floating around as a result of this book.  Anybody have some good historical fiction courtly intrigue books to recommend to me?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Retro Friday Review: Ender's Game By Orson Scott Card

Retro Friday is a meme hosted by Angie of Angieville and "focuses on reviewing books from the past. This can be an old favorite, an under-the-radar book you think deserves more attention, something woefully out of print, etc." 

Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card
Publisher: Tor Books
Publication date: 1985 (originally published as a short story in 1977)
Pages: 352
Source: Audiobook from Library
For: Fun
Series: Ender series, Book 1

Ender is a third child, a rarity in his world where population is strictly monitered. He has been chosen by the military to go to battle school at six years old, after his two older siblings were rejected. Little does he expect to encounter there brutality, cruelty, and no sympathy from adults. Working his way up by skill, strategy, and wits, Ender is being groomed to play a vital part in the war for the planet - one that will decide the fate of all humans.

Things I Liked:
This truly is a clever, original story.  I was completely impressed with how real it felt.  I love the complex plot, the real and completely horrifying world of the battle school, how Card doesn't hold back on what happens to his characters.  Ender feels like a real kid and we feel the horror of the situations he is put into, the reality that there are no adults to look out for him.  It progresses completely to the ending that is ridiculously surprising, yet afterward seems inevitable.  It's smart and good sci-fi and will keep you invested in knowing what Ender will do next, or rather what will be done to Ender next.  He has a lot of internal conflict and I think that is realistically portrayed.  Just plain good storytelling.

Things I Didn't Like:
It can be very depressing at times, not that this is something inherantly bad about the book.  It's just hard to see Ender deal with all the crap thrown at him.  I listened to the audio version this time and I liked having different voices for different characters, but Ender's voice was pretty annoying.  Valentine's was belivable and felt young enough, but Ender's voice was less so - an older man with a rather gruff voice (Stefan Rudnicki).  This was ok at times, but other times it grated on me to have such a young kid read by a person with such an old voice.  Still, it didn't detract much from the really good story.

Read-alikes:
Honestly, I don't know.  I guess I don't read enough sci-fi.
For other books with great plot twists, check out my Twisted Tales book list

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@ 
scattered throughout

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: ->->-> 
some of it is pretty horrifying, but not overly detailed

Overall rating: ***** 

Have you read it? What did you think?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Publisher: Doubleday
Publication date: September 2011
Pages: 400
Source: Library
For: Fun

This book is very hard to describe, but at its center lies Le Cirque des Rêves, the Circus of Dreams, a mystical, unusual, different kind of circus. Battling behind striped curtains and caramel apples are two magicians, Celia and Marco, locked in a battle not of their making. Will this place of dreams be a witness to their destruction or to a much different end to their battle?

Things I Liked:
This book is very, very atmospheric, and I think this is it's greatest strength, why so many people have raved about it.  The way Morgenstern writes, the strange details and the unique elements of the circus come right to life.  It is like living through a vivid and strange dream on page, never knowing exactly what will pop up next.  I really liked some of the characters, notably not Celia or Marco, but Chandresh and Poppet.  It is, to use the overused phrase, evocative.  You actually feel (and smell and taste) like you are at the Night Circus.  A truly interesting and unique book that really pops from the page to life.

Things I Didn't Like:
I was not really impressed with the epic love story.  I felt like there wasn't any development of their relationship.  They have very little page time together and yet they have this unbreakable bond of love.  I just couldn't buy it.  I also really wanted more explanation of the magic, the illusions, and what happened in the end.  It was so vague that I honestly thought I'd skipped a chapter or something.  Definitely worth the read just for the experience, though.  All that raving didn't go awry in this case.

Read-alikes:
I really don't know of anything similar, maybe Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clark a little

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@# 
at least one f-bomb that I can remember

mrg-factor: X 
sensual, but not much action on the page

v-factor: -> 
a few incidents but the details are light

Overall rating: **** 

Can you think of anything like this?  It is very unique, I think.

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: The Lost Heiress by Catherine Fisher

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

Yeah, I'm continuing to cite this series as a great tween read, even if it's marketed as teen.

The Lost Heiress by Catherine Fisher
Publisher: Dial
Publication date: June 2011
ISBN: 9780803736740
Source: Library

Rumors abound in Tasceron that the heiress to the throne may still be alive somewhere.  Galen and Raffi, along with some old friends, must seek her out, before she is taken by the watch. 

Things I Liked:
I was intrigued once again with the unique setting Fisher has created here.  The world keeps getting more depth and background story with each addition to the series.  I love the strange creatures that are introduced, as well as the deceptions and mysterious motivations that so many characters have.  Raffi is such a contrast to all of those deceptive characters, by his simplicity and trust - I think he's the character that makes the series feel tween-y to me.  An interesting and odd cast of characters and world that continues to surprise me.

Things I Didn't Like:
I guess I can't help comparing this to my favorite Fisher books, Incarceron and Sapphique.  In comparison, this series is very simple, lacking the complexity and depth that those books hold.  I suppose this contributes to the fact that I think this one will appeal to younger teens and tweens, which is a good thing.  I'm interested enough to keep reading, but still think it can't compare with her other stuff I've read.

Read-alikes:
The above-mentioned Catherine Fisher books
Obviously, start with the first book The Dark City by Catherine Fisher

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
maybe a few, but I can't really remember
mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->->
some action

Overall rating: ***

I haven't seen many reviews of this series - anybody else out there reading it?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Retro Friday Review: The Sea of Trolls by Nancy Farmer

Retro Friday is a weekly meme hosted by Angie of Angieville and "focuses on reviewing books from the past. This can be an old favorite, an under-the-radar book you think deserves more attention, something woefully out of print, etc."

The Sea of Trolls by Nancy Farmer
Publisher: Atheneum
Publication date: 2004
ISBN: 9780689867460
Source: Audiobook download from the library

When Jack and his sister are stolen by Northmen and taken as thralls to their home, Jack isn't quite sure what to do.  When they are brought before the half-troll queen, Frith, he ends up forced to go on a quest for a magical well hidden deep in the kingdom of the Trolls.  Can he complete this quest, with the help of the gruff Thorgill and Olaf one-Brow in time to save his sister from being sacrificed?

Things I Liked:
What a fun story!  I wish I'd read this one sooner.  The mythology is absolutely fabulous.  I adored learning more about Norse and Scandinavian mythos, particularly the gods and the trolls.  The story is interesting and unique and it evoked the great quests so common in high fantasy.  But what I really loved was the historical element as well.  This is set in the dark ages of England and Scandinavia and that setting is written so thoroughly that you can't help but fall into it!  The book is rich with myths and history and entirely relatable characters.  In addition, it talks so neatly about the issues of slavery and the animosity between countries that you almost don't notice it.  I adored Thorgill and I could write an entire treatise on her complexities, but I'll spare you.  I listened to this one on my new horrifically long commute to work and it kept my mind completely off the traffic (hopefully in a good way).  The narrator does incredible voices and accents and I truly loved delving into this story through audio.  A fantastically underrated fantasy series that I've got to read (or listen to) more of.

Things I Didn't Like:
It did seem a bit long, but for fantasy fans the thick book will be nothing extraordinary. 

Read-alikes:
It felt rather Lord of the Rings ish
Icefall by Matthew Kirby
A bit like the Percy Jackson books by Rick Riordan

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: ! 
there were some here and there

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: ->-> 

several rather gruesome battles described

Overall rating: ***** 

Anybody else read this series or know of any other Viking books for kids?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: The Trouble with Half a Moon by Danette Vigilante

The Trouble with Half a Moon by Danette Vigilante
Publisher: Putnam Juvenile
Publication date: January 2011
ISBN: 9780399251597
Source: ARC sent by publicist

 

Dellie's life completely changed when her brother was killed in an accident.  Now her mom is crying all the time and won't let Dellie leave the house.  When they get some new neighbors that seem to bring trouble, Dellie is torn between trying to help Corey, who's mom is in the thick of it, and staying safe as her mom wants her to. 

Things I Liked:
I really loved the cast of characters for this book!  It was filled with a diverse group of people - kids and adults.  And it wasn't the main focus of the story either.  I was drawn into the lives of the people, Dellie and Corey's obviously, and I felt like they were my own friends and neighbors.  It was a heart-breaking story, watching how hard it is for Dellie and her parents to deal with the loss of her brother.  And then to watch Corey's life slowly become worse.  I found myself in tears on multiple occasions.  A sweet and affecting story about dealing with grief and the things we can't prevent.

Things I Didn't Like:
I was actually a little surprised at the quick changes Corey's mom makes near the end.  It seemed rather unrealistic, though the ending kind of made more sense.  It all was a little too neatly resolved.  It was something that drew me out of the story.  But a solid debut and I look forward to more from Vigilante.  

Read-alikes:
Invisible Lines by Mary Amato
After Tupac and D Foster by Jacqueline Woodson

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
a few here and there

mrg-factor: none
 
v-factor: ->
a little bit of domestic violence

Overall rating: ****

Do you cry easily when reading or not? I think it depends entirely on my current mood :)

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Retro Friday Review: The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

Retro Friday is a weekly meme hosted by Angie of Angieville and "focuses on reviewing books from the past. This can be an old favorite, an under-the-radar book you think deserves more attention, something woefully out of print, etc." 

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers
Publication date: 2005
ISBN: 9780375842207
Source: personal copy (reread for book club)

Guys, I really struggled with a summary of this book.  I just don't think it's possible for me to write it well enough.  But here's what I will say: story of a young girl growing up in World War II Germany.  All told from the narrative perspective of a compassionate Death, Liesel's story will break your heart and lift your spirits at the same time.

Things I Liked:
Does this book really need more gushing?  Could I possibly be able to say anything new about it?  Probably not.  I'll just say, if you haven't picked this book up, you really should.  The writing alone is worth the read - gorgeous, different, vivid and expressive, it will make you think differently about nearly everything you know about WWII Germany.  The story itself is slow to unfold, but you become acquainted with the characters and fall in love with them, and then suffer when they do.  It is a rich, detailed and simply lovely story, with such a unique and intriguing narrator that you will find yourself flying through the pages.  Read it.  And then read it again.  And again.  After meeting Markus Zusak, I loved the story even more.  Some of the many, many parts I loved:

I could introduce myself properly, but it's not really necessary.  You will know me well enough and soon enough, depending on a diverse range of variables.  It suffices to say that at some point in time, I will be standing over you, as genially as possible.  Your soul will be in my arms.  A color will be perched on my shoulder.  I will carry you gently away.  At that moment, you will be lying there (I rarely find people standing up).  You will be caked in your own body.  There might be a discovery; a scream will dribble down the air.  The only sound I'll hear after that will be my own breathing, and the sound of the smell, of my footsteps.  The question is, what color will everything be at that moment when I come for you?  What will the sky be saying?  Personally, I like a chocolate-colored sky.  Dark, dark chocolate.  People say it suits me.  I do, however, try to enjoy every color I see - the whole spectrum.  A billion or so flavors, none of them quite the same, and a sky to slowly suck on.  It takes the edge off the stress.  It helps me relax. p 4

She was the book thief without the words.  Trust me, though, the words were on their way, and when they arrived, Liesel would hold them in her hands like the clouds, and she would wring them out like rain.  p 80

Many jocular comments followed, as did another onslaught of "heil Hitlering."  You know, it actually makes me wonder if anyone ever lost an eye or injured a hand or wrist with all of that.  You'd only need to be facing the wrong way at the wrong time or stand marginally too close to another person.  Perhaps people did get injured.  Personally, I can only tell you that no one died from it, or at least, not physically.  p 111

Yes, the Fuhrer decided that he would rule the world with words.  "I will never fire a gun," he devised.  "I will not have to."  Still, he was not rash.  Let's allow him at least that much.  He was not a stupid man at all.  His first plan of attack was to plant the words in as many areas of his homeland as possible.  He planted them day and night, and cultivated them.  He watched them grow, until eventually, great forests of words had risen throughout Germany....It was a nation of farmed thoughts.  p 445

Things I Didn't Like:
This being my second time reading it, I was struck again by how many swear words there are.  Mind you, many of them are German, but the religious exclamations also made me uncomfortable, but I don't think they'll bother many people.  I know it didn't detract much from the beauty and bitterness of the story for me.  Also, it really isn't a short book and might be a bit hard for those who can't invest much time and effort into the reading, but know it will be worth it if you can.  
 
Read-alikes:
Honestly, not much like any other WWII book I've read, but try  
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne 
Milkweed by Jerry Spinelli 
Hitler Youth by Susan Campbell Bartoletti

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@#
as mentioned above, mostly German or religious

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->->
not a lot in number, but necessary as part of the story

Overall rating: *****

Anybody out there not read this book?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Reckless by Cornelia Funke

Reckless by Cornelia Funke
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Publication date: September 2010
ISBN: 9780316056090
Source: Library (for Cybils)

Jacob Reckless has slipped from his world into the mirror world for years with no real regrets.  But, when his younger brother follows him there, they are met with disaster.  As his brother is being changed by dark magic, Jacob must find a way to reverse the magic, before it is too late for all of them.

Things I Liked:
I really loved the fairy tale aspect of the book.  There were subtle mentions and little parts that felt familiar, because they came from recognizable fairy tales - the magical objects, in particular.  I just loved the way the tales were twisted into the story as if they belonged there.  There was also action and adventure and lots of twists and turns, and no truly happy ending.  There was some of Funke's truly lovely writing as well (though I guess that might be the translator's doing...).  A solid book for fairy tale fans and lovers of Funke's Inkheart books. Some favorite parts:

The night breathed through the apartment like a dark animal.  The ticking of a clock.  The groan of a floorboard as he slipped out of his room.  All was drowned by its silence.  But Jacob loved the night.  He felt it on his skin like a promise.  Like a cloak woven from freedom and danger.  p 1

The second chamber contained Witches' artifacts.  The Chamber of Miracles made no distinction between the healers and the cannibals.  Knives that had separated human flesh from bone lay right next to needles that healed wounds with a single stitch and owl feathers that restored the power of sight.  There were also two of the brooms on which the healing Witches were able to fly as fast and as high as birds, as well as some gingerbread from the deadly houses of their man-eating sisters.  p 345

Things I Didn't Like: 
I read this book for Cybils and all of us agreed it was more suited to an older teen/adult reader.  There was not anything particularly "naughty" but the themes and the way its written seem very mature to me (the characters are nearly all adults, no children).  Jacob is not someone easy to identify with and he's not particularly likable.  Also, mixed in with the lovely writing were some very awkward phrases and sentences.  Kind of hit and miss for me.

Read-alikes:
The Grimm Legacy by Polly Shulman
Inkheart trilogy by Cornelia Funke

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@
a few here and there

mrg-factor: X
some implied

v-factor: ->->->
definitely some action violence and frightening imagery

Overall rating: ****

  Did you like or dislike this one? What about Funke's other works?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: The Dark City by Catherine Fisher AND Giveaway

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

I know this series is published and publicized as teen, but I think it has great appeal for tweens who love a rich fantasy.  It was remarkably easy to read as well and will definitely have broad appeal in its age ranges - for both teens and tweens.

The Dark City by Catherine Fisher
Publisher: Dial (Penguin)
Publication date: May 2011
ISBN: 9780803736733
Source: ARC provided by publisher

Summary from the publisher:
"Welcome to Anara, a world mysteriously crumbling to devastation, where nothing is what it seems: Ancient relics emit technologically advanced powers, members of the old Order are hunted by the governing Watch yet revered by the people, and the great energy that connects all seems to also be destroying all. The only hope for the world lies in Galen, a man of the old Order and a Keeper of relics, and his sixteen-year-old apprentice, Raffi. They know of a secret relic with great power that has been hidden for centuries. As they search for it, they will be tested beyond their limits. For there are monsters-some human, some not-that also want the relic's power and will stop at nothing to get it."

Things I Liked:
As you know, I adored Catherine Fisher's other books, Incarceron and Sapphique, so I was super excited to get an ARC of the first in this "new" series.  In some ways, it felt similar to her other books, but in many ways it was different.  It has the same unique and interesting world that has many secrets to be unraveled.  Initially, it seems Anara is just another fantasy world with no relation to us.  As the story unravels, bit by bit, hints are dropped here and there that give us a glimpse of much more.  I love the complete world Fisher has created and the feeling of so much history behind it.  I think that is one mark of really great fantasy, when the world that's created has such depth and history that it almost feels real.  I was definitely sucked into this new story and I can't wait to fit more pieces into the puzzle of this series.

Things I Didn't Like:
While it did have some similarities to Incarceron and Sapphique, it lacked the complexity and depth that series has.  It is more simplistic and definitely doesn't have (at least not in this first book) the same level of writing and the characters are not quite as intriguing.  Still, a fantastic new series for fans of Fisher and good fantasy.

Read-alikes:
Incarceron and Sapphique by Catherine Fisher
Reminded me of Beyonders by Brandon Mull

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none
that I recall...

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->
a bit, but nothing graphic

Overall rating: ****

I'm super excited that the sequels will be released so closely to one another!  That's definitely an added bonus.  To learn more about the series, visit the Relic Master website.  The release dates for the next three books are:
Book Two: The Lost Heiress, June 14
Book Three: The Hidden Coronet, July 12
Book Four: The Margrave, August 9

For the giveaway, I have two copies of The Dark City, thanks to Penguin and Big Honcho Media, to give away!  Also, I managed to get two ARCs of the book, so I have an additional copy of my own I'm giving away.  So, three copies up for grabs!  To enter, fill out the form below.  (US only, must be 13 or older to enter.)  You have two weeks to enter, until June 14th!

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Spy Glass by Maria V. Snyder

Spy Glass by Maria V. Snyder
Publisher: Mira
Publication date: September 2010
ISBN: 9780778328476
Source: Library

Warning: some spoilers for Storm Glass and Sea Glass!
Opal is still reeling from giving up her magic.  She tries to tell herself that she's ok without it, but her life will never be the same.  As she attempts to deal with this loss, she finds herself running away from family and loved ones as she seeks some purpose in her life.  When she gets drawn into a scheme to control a small community, she must do everything she can to fight against evil magic again.  Will she ever know what she should do with her life before she loses it?

Things I Liked:
The story was exciting and took lots of twists and turns throughout that sometimes caught me by surprise.  I love the fantasy world Snyder has created so completely here and the way characters from different places interact.  I really love her supporting characters that bring some humor and light to the story.  A fun and fast-paced fantasy that brings this series to a satisfying conclusion.

Things I Didn't Like:
I admit to not liking Opal again.  She bothers me in this book, as in Storm Glass.  I found her indecisive behavior and desire to rush into danger without thought tiresome and selfish at times.  I especially did not like her romantic choices, though I have to give Snyder props for not going the conventional route.  Opal has experienced a lot of weird romantic feelings in this series, and I thought this was the weirdest.  I also think there was once again too much story going on and too many plot lines trying to tie together.  The books could be so much shorter if some extraneous trips and incidents were removed.  Not as good as I was expecting, but still pretty entertaining.

Read-alikes:
Start with Storm Glass and Sea Glass by Maria V. Snyder
Also read the Study series by Snyder

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none
that I can remember

mrg-factor: XX
there are a few not-too-descriptive incidents

v-factor: ->->
some action, not graphic

Overall rating: ***

I'm beginning to wonder if I have problems in general with last books in a series! Maybe it's just the idea of the series ending that makes me sad. Are you that way?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: I Now Pronounce You Someone Else by Erin McCahan

I Now Pronounce You Someone Else by Erin McCahan
Publisher: Arthur A. Levine Books
Publication date: June 2010
ISBN: 9780545088183
Source: ARC provided by publisher

 

Bronwen Oliver is certain she was switched at birth.  She can't possibly be related to her blonde and gorgeous mother or her practically perfect brother.  They none of them have a meaningful relationship either.  After her father died, they all retreated into themselves.  Which is why when she starts dating Jared Sondervan, she falls completely in love with him and his normal family.  When she agrees to marry him, she is ready to finally have the family she's always wanted.  But when the date moves closer, she begins to wonder if that's what she wants, or who she is. 

Things I Liked:
This was a interesting look at a girl trying to figure out who she is.  I liked the way we slowly discover her past and why she is so anxious to be with Jared and his family.  Some very heartbreaking things happened to her and still seem to happen.  It was a rather natural development of her relationship with Jared and where it goes.  I also liked how it had a pretty solid romance - they didn't fall in love at first sight, but slowly and with small steps.  It was a fairly unique take on a girl discovering herself.

Things I Didn't Like:
I definitely thought this would relate more to college aged young adults than teens.  While Bronwen is seventeen at the beginning of the book, I still think she it is more appealing to slightly older populations.  Not very many juniors/seniors in high school are wanting to get married.  The way Jared acts early on and the way he acts later seem a little inconsistent, like it was contrived so she had to make certain choices later on.  I was rather surprised by one part of the ending: *spoiler warning* how very completely she severed her relationship with Jared seemed unrealistic, considering how much they both cared for each other and considering what happened later.  *end spoiler* 

Read-alikes:
Maybe a little like The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
not very many

mrg-factor: X
just some passionate kissing

v-factor: none

Overall rating: ****

Anybody know how this book is being received by teens? I'm wondering if it really does appeal more to young adults.

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Heart's Blood by Juliet Marillier

Heart's Blood tells the story of Caitrin, a girl running from her past, who finds herself in the remote village of Whistling Tor.  When she finds a position as a scribe for the strange crippled Anluan, she does not expect to be drawn into a curse that haunts his family.  The farther she delves into Anluan's family history, the more she learns about the terrible secret that has been plaguing Whistling Tor for hundreds of years. 

Things I Liked:

Marillier has a way of writing gorgeous rich stories that draw the reader right into the action.  The beautiful and complex fantasy world includes historical details with just the right touch of the Other to make it perfect.  The story and characters were fabulous, each with their own history that made me want to know more about them - they each have so much depth that none of them are extraneous.  She could probably write several more books just about the stories of the minor characters!  Here's a quote that illustrates this depth and the descriptive writing I loved:

"I started violently, whirling around at the rough, booming voice.  Between two massive oaks stood an extraordinary man.  I hardly had time to take in his squat build, his ruddy cheeks like ripe apples and his mossy, green-gray beard.  I glanced only briefly at his odd garb: a rough tunic and breeches of skins, a garland of leaves and twigs on his wild thatch of hair, festoons of greenery wreathed around his neck.  As he took a step towards me, I saw what was coming up behind him. If the man was unusual, the dog was monstrous." p19

Things I Didn't Like:

Perhaps with all these things, there may be just a little too much description and too many extra stories - it felt pretty long.  She could have cut some parts and written a separate book about those parts.  Then again, I also wanted more history of each character when I read, so maybe it wasn't long enough. :)

Read-alikes:

It actually felt a lot like Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte, though it is a retelling of Beauty and the Beast

The historical depth and feeling reminded me of The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
Wildwood Dancing also by Marillier

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:

s-factor: none

mrg-factor: XXX

several scenes and references

v-factor: ->

some fighting and domestic violence

Overall rating: ****

How much do you think modern authors are influenced by the classics?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage,
I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Sea Glass by Maria V. Snyder

Sea Glasscontinues the story of Opal, who has discovered new and powerful uses for her glass magic. Though she has been commanded by the council to return immediately, she delays that return, seeking out Ulrick, hoping he will want to have his soul returned to its body. When she does return to the Magician's Keep, she is kept under house arrest and the council is doing its best to control her, but even her friends seem to have turned against her when she tries to explain about Ulrick. Will she convince them in time, or will she become a victim of her own magical power?

Things I Liked:
Oh, Snyder, you have done it again! Despite my somewhat annoyance with Opal's first story (Storm Glass), I really enjoyed this book. The story is fast-paced and Opal is a lot more confident this time around, which is something that annoyed me in the first book. I absolutely love the supporting characters, Janco in particular, not to mention Leif. I really enjoyed them more than Opal, I'm afraid. But, I liked the plot, with its intrigue and the complex problems that arose. And, of course, the writing.

"Time dripped. Each second hung as if it were on the end of an icicle, fattening until t grew too big to hold on. Then splat - another second gone." p.53

A taste of my Janco love:

"Sandseed horses are very intelligent, and he's one beautiful, bright boy."
"And he allowed you to saddle him!" I said in an excited whisper. "How?"
He shrugged. "I introduced myself, and told him what was going on. Guess meeting the greatest swordsman in Ixia awed him into submission."
"A swordsman who can't handle a horsewhip. He probably felt sorry for you." p. 66

Things I Didn't Like:
Some sections seemed totally unrelated, though they are probably being used to set up future books. Still, I found them disrupting to the plot of this book. It also seemed like there were too many stories going on at once.

Read-alikes:
Start with the Study trilogy by Snyder and then the first about Opal, Storm Glass
They remind me of Robin McKinley's The Blue Sword and The Hero and the Crown

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
a handful

mrg-factor: XX
some implied situations, nothing explicit

v-factor: ->->
fighting, blood, etc

Overall rating: ****

Who is your favorite character from Snyder's series?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage,
I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Storm Glass by Maria V. Snyder

Storm Glasscontinues the story of Opal, who we met in Fire Study. Opal is feeling discouraged by her one trick magical ability - creating glass animals with magic inside - when the master magicians send her on a mission to help the stormdancer clan. When things don't go exactly as they planned, Opal must fight for her life and in the process learns that her magic is much more than just one trick.

Things I Liked:
I loved the characters, especially Opal, who is so realistically drawn as a woman who doubts what she can do. I particularly like the romance woven througout - and how that is resolved by her own choice and not an outside factor. The story is very unique and I particularly love the world Snyder has created. The action, when it hits, is always very exciting. I also still love Snyder's quiet kind of humor, as in this quote:

"I really couldn't say anything about a scouting bat. I claimed glass and spiders spoke to me, and diamonds gave me visions." p.328

Things I Didn't Like:
I must admit I was a tiny bit disappointed. I think I expected too much from the book. The story seemed a little repetative in places - Opal getting into trouble. Again. I also became a little annoyed by her lack of confidence in herself. I think perhaps it might have been a little too long as well, some of the action in the story almost felt contrived. I still liked the book, but it didn't quite live up to what I expected.

Read-alikes:
Start with the Study Trilogy by Snyder first - some things won't make sense otherwise.
Also reminded me of Robin McKinley's stuff - The Blue Sword and The Hero and the Crown
Graceling by Kristin Cashore

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none

mrg-factor: X
some innuendo

v-factor: ->->
fighting and blood

Overall rating: ****

What books have you read that don't live up to your expectations, but are still very good?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage,
I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Eon: Dragoneye Reborn by Alison Goodman

Eon: Dragoneye Rebornis the exciting story of Eon, aka Eona, a girl posing as a boy in order to be chosen as the next Dragoneye apprentice - one who shares their essence with one of the twelve dragon spirits. Her deception is dangerous and could forfeit her life if it is discovered. But, when something completely unexpected happens at the ceremony, she will be responsible for more than just her own life.

Things I Liked:
I love the themes of the book - Eon must come to understand her true identity and accept who she is. I thought it was very well-written and the story kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. The supporting characters are interesting and individual - I thought they were well-sketched. I also really loved the culture of the book too - setting and details were gorgeous.

Things I Didn't Like:
I didn't really think the ending part about Lord Ido was terribly believable. It seemed too clean and complete a change to be real. I also knew pretty much what was going to happen - it made me want to slap Eon(a) several times over. How could she be so stupid? But, none of it materially changed my enjoyment of the book.

Read-alikes:
Reminded me of The Dragon Heir by Cinda Williams Chima a bit
Also a little like The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley
I've heard it's also like Tamora Pierce's books (though, I have yet to read any!)

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
maybe one or two

mrg-factor: X
some situations, but they don't lead anywhere

v-factor: ->->->
Fighting, killing, and other violent, scary stuff - not gory though.

Overall rating: ****