Confuzzled Books

Picture This - Hunger Games 2

2012-01-11T21:51:00.000-05:00

Well I finished the Hunger Games and to be honest I don't get the hype although I am curious to know where the second book goes with things.

These images came from a blog called Disney Bound. If you haven't heard of it this girl comes up with some amazing outfits. So here is her versions of Katniss and Primrose's outfits from the Hunger Games.

Review - Rosetta's Daring Day by Lisa Papademetriou

2011-12-11T21:57:00.000-05:00

Title: Rosetta’s Daring Day
Series: Disney Fairies
Author: Lisa Papademetriou
Genre: Chapter Book, Children’s Book, Fantasy
Publisher: Random House
Received: Purchased
Release Date: August 2009
Pages: 118
Rating:

What is it About?

Rosetta the garden fairy and her friend Fawn the animal talent fairy are both as different as can be. One likes to get dirty and play with animals the other likes to stay pretty an neat. They make a deal to teach the other how to be the opposite testing there friendship.

My Thoughts:

I have to say this one was not one of my favorites. Usually the Disney Fairies are spot on lessons while the friendship aspect was right the part about facing your fear just felt off to me. Yes they both face there fear and receive an award but in real life the reward is facing your fear you do not always get a reward. So that part irked me.

I know it’s a kids book but still you are trying to teach kids with these books.

Website:
http://disney.go.com/fairies/

Signed Book Giveaway Yang's New Dance by Dr. Jingyi Hong and Patrice Samara

2011-12-10T12:00:00.001-05:00

ABOUT THE BOOK

"The Alphabet Kids love going to the playground but noticed that Yang did not join in. Yang had his own ideas about having fun. Find out his secret (Tai-Chi) in Yang's New Dance.
Yang is Chinese-American.

Alphabet Kids is an original multicultural children's series created by Allegra Joyce Kassin. The delightful and timeless stories follow the adventures of Allegra, Elena, Isaac, Oni, Umar and Yang as they learn to embrace diversity through language, foods, customs, and music! The stories are intended to help children learn to love who they are and realize that people who are different can be very good friends plus other valuable life lesson0s (taken from Goodreads.com)

COMMENT BELOW TO ENTER!

DO NOT FORGET EMAILS SO I MAY CONTACT YOU!!

GIVEAWAY WILL END FEBRUARY 1ST 2012

I WILL ANNOUNCE THE WINNERS ON THE 2ND

Yes I am giving as internationally!

Review - Buffy the Vampire Slayer: No Future For You - Season 8 Vol. 2

2011-12-10T09:51:00.000-05:00

Title: Buffy The Vampire Slayer: No Future For You - Season 8 Vol. 2
Series: Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Authors: Joss Whedon, Brian K. Vaughan, and George Jeanty
Genre: Graphic Novel, Fantasy
Publisher: Dark Horse
Received: Purchased
Release Date: June 2008
Pages: 120
Rating:

What is it About?

A rogue unknown slayer turns evil and Giles offers Faith a chance to redeem herself by stopping her.

My Thoughts:

So here we find Faith still troubled, still just Faith. Giles gives her a job to get rid of a evil slayer whose has a plan to become Queen of the Slayers. Faith interweaves herself into the rich British world of the slayer. Faith finds herself in a dilemma bonding with the evil slayer.

Of course this not the first time we see Faith struggle with the dark side of her slayer powers. One does wonder if she had been told the whole story before going in on the job would things have turn out differently for Faith and Buffy.

One thing I love about the comics is you may think you know where the story line is going but it always turns out you do not know. That is what makes it that more interesting to read and while I have been a little slow keeping up with the comic I still think the comic fits so well into the series. In fact maybe better because there is so much that is done I don’t know if it would have been able to be done on the tv series.

Website:
http://www.darkhorse.com/Zones/Buffy

Winner of Dragon Keepers Handbook!!

2011-12-10T05:38:00.000-05:00

Congrats Tree I will be contacting you soon !

Review - Yang's New Dance by Dr. Jingyi Hong and Patrice Samara

2011-12-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

Title: Yang’s New Dance
Series: Alphabet Kids
Authors: Dr. Jingyi Hong and Patrice Samara
Genre: Children Book, Picture Book
Publisher: Toychest Interactive Products
Received: From Authors for Review
Release Date: 2010
Pages: 23
Rating:

What is it About?

Little Yang dances a strange unknown dance (Tai Chi) at recess that the other kids are curious about.

My Thoughts:

Showing the plus sides to diversity in heritage the alphabet kids are always learning something new at there school. Today they learn from Yang grandfather about Tai Chi.

The kids are a curious bunch and see Yang dancing his dance at recess. Instead of making fun of his different dance they want to know more of why it is so fun to Yang, instead of playing with them. Yang grandfather teaches the children some Tai Chi moves and tells them how it can make you happy and healthy practicing these moves. No one is excluded. Everyone can do they even their teacher.

The art is cleanly drawn and captures the characters uniqueness even with out the words. I loved Yang’s New Dance because it was different story then you would find in most picture books. I loved the pleasant feeling that the kids all liked each other and seem to accept there differences.

Website:

http://www.alphabetkids.com

Sunday Salon - Most Wonderful Time Of Year

2011-12-04T18:33:00.000-05:00

Well the year is almost over and the tree is up for the holidays. First time in a long time it didn’t take us until Christmas Eve to set up the tree, I think.

I have almost made my reading goal on to read 100 books before the end of the year.

Right now I am half way through the first book of The Hunger Games. I am also reading The Snow Queen by Mercedes Lackey(part of the 500 kingdom series) and the first Game of Thrones book. That is a lot of series at once for me. lol
I usually read A Christmas Carol but I think I am going to skip it this year and just watch one of the movies.
I started some Christmas shopping mostly for my husband have to work on others they are harder. I got one present already from my husband, a android tablet. It is pretty cool.

Had my first sale on Etsy (3 painted boxes) and had a sale on Zazzle (Original Halfling T-Shirt)
So you could say that things have been pretty good since Thanksgiving.

So are you prepared for the holidays? Are you reading anything holiday related?

Picture This - Hunger Games

2011-11-23T12:00:00.005-05:00

This is something new I am trying. Picture This will be samples of my art or sketches (like this) from books I am reading. Right now I am reading the Hunger Games and the image of Katniss shooting a bow and arrow at the apple on the gamemaker's table because she upset they are not paying any attention to her skill.

I quickly sketched this as the scene wouldn't leave my mind. Very powerful scene.

Happy Turkey Day in the U.S.!!

Review - Caterpillars by Marilyn Singer

2011-11-22T12:00:00.001-05:00

Title: Caterpillars
Series:N/A
Author: Marilyn Singer
Genre: Picture Book, Non Fiction
Publisher: Early Light Books
Received: From Publicist
Release Date: June 2010
Pages: 48
Rating:

What is it About?

Non fictional children’s book displaying info and pictures of different caterpillars

My Thoughts:

What kid hasn’t played with a caterpillar? As kid I was fond of all creepy crawlies but as I grew some became just creepy. Caterpillars aren’t as creepy but there are some in this book that I would not want to see up close.

I really loved looking at the images more then reading of the prose. This is another book with a layout of the words I wasn’t fond of. It made the book less interesting.

It is hard not to give this a high rating because it is about caterpillars. Really can not think of anyone who never liked them.

Website:

http://marilynsinger.net/

Review - Brave Rooney by Gerry Renert

2011-11-22T07:00:00.001-05:00

Title: Brave Rooney
Series:N/A
Author: Gerry Renert
Genre: Children Book, Interactive Story
Publisher: ?
Received: in PDF form from author
Release Date: 2011
Pages:?
Rating:

What is it About?
An interactive story about a regular boy who goes to school with superheroes.

My Thoughts:

Unfortunately this book is only available on iPad or iPhones. The author gave me a chance to read the story in PDF format but I do think I missed some things without the interaction. That is why I can not give a full five stars. I can not afford an iPad or iPhone so I think this will hurt the readership of the book because it is not something that can be read many places. If you watch the trailer you get feel for how the book is really suppose to be seen.

The story and art is cute and whimsical. It is about a regular young boy who goes to school with superheroes but he becomes the real superhero to them. I would have also liked more description but that is not what this book is about it is about the interaction. For kids who are growing up in this technical advanced world it will be a fun read from what I can see but I really wish there was a way I could download the app/story on my laptop so I could get the full effect.
But if you have an iPad maybe something you want to check out for the kids.

Websites:

http://www.gerryrenert.com/Gerry_Renert/Brave_Rooney.html

http://www.facebook.com/gerryrenert.author
Trailer:

Books To Talk About - Nikolas & Company: A Creature Most Foul by Kevin McGill

2011-11-21T12:00:00.001-05:00

BOOKS TO TALK ABOUT

Nikolas Lyons is about to embark on an adventure, he is about to become a hero or try too at least. His grandfather Nikolas Lyons XII has just told him that he does not come from the planet he lives on and the woman’s voice he hears is the voice of his planet Mon. Which is actually the Earth and the Moon combined in the future. All things that seem to make sense to him in a way. His brother Tim is skeptical though. He thinks there grandfather has lost it.

Along with a group of refuge friends they travel to Mon heeding the voice’s warnings of disillusion.

DISCUSS IN THE COMMENTS

1) Some people feel that Mother Earth speaks in different ways. Have you ever heard the voice of the planet in any way? or do you believe Earth has a voice?

2) If your life was going to be in peril would you bring all of your friends? (considering that their fates might have been subjected to deadly viruses instead of adventure)

SITES TO VISIT

http://www.nikolasandco.com/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tULUoQHcBkg

Sunday Salon - Thankful For Giving

2011-11-20T12:00:00.001-05:00

This year we are not rich but we are doing okay. Enough I try to give a little here or there if I can and to have contests that I can have internationally for now. I am Thankful that we aren’t struggling this year (for the first time) and I know there are those that are. I came across a post from One Busy Momma Christmas For Kids drive. This year they are helping a single mother of three for Christmas by donating money or gift cards.

Now I am not a mother but I can imagine how hard it is to struggle with just one child or two especially with the way the economy is today. So I please if you can to donate a 1 or 2 for this family.

On a another note of giving I also have a lot of Bookmooch points that I think I want to give away not sure where to yet but if anyone has thoughts please let me know because there are so many charities to choose from.

Review - I Remember My Circus by Tom S. Figueiredo

2011-11-19T12:00:00.005-05:00

Title: I Remember My Circus
Series: N/A
Author: Tom S. Figueiredo
Genre: Children’s Book, Picture Book
Publisher: Editora Cedraz
Received: From publicist
Release Date: July 2011
Pages: 54
Rating:

What is it About?

A little boy recalls his version of a circus he attended with his mother.

My Thoughts:

Imaginative and funny this children book creates emotion through differences in people. Showing we all have hearts even the ones that turn into monsters or gorillas. We all hold something deep inside whether it be the imagination of a circus that we never got to see in reality or heartache from a broken marriage.

The circus leaves but not without leaving a lasting impression in young and old alike. I Remember My Circus is a trip to the circus that will be heartfelt. My only wish is that there was more to this world to read about.

Website:

N/A

Guest Post - Richard Denning - No IPhones in 6th Century Britain

2011-11-19T08:05:00.001-05:00

NO IPhones in 6^th century Britain.

It is the year 597: The darkest years of the dark ages. You are an Anglo Saxon living in a small village in Northumbria. There are no Ipods, no Internet, no TV, radio and not even newspapers and books (unless you were wealthy ). What do you do to keep from getting bored? Here are some ways that the Anglo Saxons had fun in the dark evenings.

Indoor entertainment and feasts

Having a slap up meal was something that you could do and in fact our ancestors would hold feasts on a number of occasions in the year. At weddings, after the Harvest has been brought safely in and in the depths of winter particularly during the long festival of Yuletide from which we get the modern Christmas celebration. There was a high degree of ceremony connected with feasts. It would start outside the hall. A horn was blown to summon the guests to table and the host would great them at the door where there would be a hand washing ceremony at the door. The doors were then shut to keep gate crashers away!

Then the guests would enter and sit at benches lining long tables. The king’s warriors or thegns could sit in his halls but only men of high rank would sit at the high table. Women of high rank would be cup bearers and pour drinks for the king and lords. In the Christian era bread was blessed and then broken in remembrance of the Eucharist or holy communion/ mass.

Feasts might go on all day and night: there were even some 3 day feasts.

It was considered a serious matter to commit an offense or undertake violence at a feast

Entertainment at feasts: These might include playing the harp, lyre, horn, trumpet, drums flute or cymbals. There would be accompanying signing: often songs recalling battles.

They enjoyed dancing and juggling, The Saxons enjoyed poems and stories. Long stories told skilfully could entrance and fascinate the listener. It from these tales that sagas like Beowulf emerge. There would be stories of war and fighting. Stories of adventure and danger and of monsters. The Saxons also loved riddles. The asking and guessing of riddles was part of many a nighst entertainment. Here is a typical Anglo-Saxon riddle from the Exeter book which has many such riddles in. Some are obscure and some lewd and suggestive. This one is straighter forward.On the wave a miracle: water turned to bone.
What is the answer? See at the end of this section.

Games:

A board game

Above: a game of Hnefatafl
The Anglo-Saxons were fond of dice games. Dice were made from the knuckle bones of animals such as pigs. Boardgames were also popular and often recalled battles in a symbolic way. An example is Hnefatafl which is played using stone pieces on a carved wooden board. One player’s pawns coming from the corners of the board would attack the other side’s kings and pawns which were positioned in the centre. The player with the King would be trying to get him off the board (to escape from the battle) whilst the other player would try and trap him. These un-even games – where the two sides were of different sizes and abilities – were very prevalent in Anglo-Saxon and later Viking cultures.

Outdoor Sports:
Horse racing was mentioned in Beowulf in 8th century and by the writer Bede in the 7th. There are records of dog racing, hunting, ice skating, swimming, falconry, hawking, acrobatics, wrestling and gymnastics.

Answer to that riddle:
On the wave a miracle: water turned to bone.
Ice or iceberg.

There are more riddles here: http://news.richarddenning.co.uk/?p=88

I am a writer of historical fiction and fantasy, One period that particularly fascinates me is the early Dark Ages in Britain. This period is the birt of Britain as we know it today with the races of English, Welsh, Scots and Irish emerging through conflict and chaos.

The Amber Treasure is historical fiction set in Dark Age Britain -

597 A.D. Betrayal threatens the Kingdom of Northumbria. “I will take care of the body of my lord and you can carry the sword, story teller. For all good stories are about a sword.”

6th Century Northumbria: Cerdic, the nephew of the great warrior Cynric, grows up dreaming of glory in battle and writing his name in the sagas. When war comes for real though, his sister is kidnapped, his family betrayed and his uncle's legendary sword stolen. It falls to Cerdic to avenge his families’ loss, rescue his sister and return home with the sword.

You can find out more if you read The Amber Treasure . The first part is free on my website.

Giveaway- Signed Copy of The Dragon Keeper's Handbook by Shawn MAcKenzie

2011-11-17T11:07:00.001-05:00

ABOUT THE BOOK

Here be Dragons... Not the slavering, whimsical monsters from childhood fancies, but real Dragons—fierce, complex, wondrous, and wild. They do not require our belief; they never have.

With hard science and myth, empirical wisdom, and original line drawings, The Dragon Keeper's Handbook is the draconic enchiridion for the modern world, providing everything you need to know about these extraordinary beings. From disparate theories of Dragon evolution and the golden geometry of their form to modern conservation efforts and how to release a well-weaned orphan back into the wild, this book answers all your questions, even those you didn't know to ask. From awe-inspiring Cosmic Creators to wee pisuhänds guarding hearth and home, discover the habits and habitats of Dragons and pseudo-dragons both familiar and rare.

The Dragon Keeper's Handbook shows us how human and Dragon lives are bound together and why Dragons are now and ever-will-be relevant: In their wildness lie lessons for us all." ( description taken from Goodreads.com)

book is 312 pages and signed arc

COMMENT BELOW TO ENTER!

DO NOT FORGET EMAILS SO I MAY CONTACT YOU!!

~~GIVEAWAY WILL END DECEMBER 8TH 2011~~

~~I WILL ANNOUNCE THE WINNERS ON THE 9TH~~

~~Yes I am giving as internationally!~~

WINNER HAS BEEN ANNOUNCED

Winners of Signed Copy of Reverence by L.S. Galster!

2011-11-17T10:40:00.000-05:00

Thank you to those who signed up for the Reverence we had 4 people and it just so happens I have two copies to give out. You know I wish I could give you all copies.

Here are the winners choosen by random.org

And

Congrats and I will be contacting you soon!

Review - Heat Wave by Richard Castle

2011-11-04T08:29:00.000-04:00

Title: Heat Wave
Series: Nikki Heat
Author: Richard Castle
Genre: Mystery
Publisher: Hyperion
Received: Purchased
Release Date: July 2010
Pages: 216
Rating:

What is it About?
Character Richard Castle from the tv series Castle write about characters based from the show.

My Thoughts:

The best thing about the show Castle is Nathan Fillion for those you who don’t know who that is that is the guy who plays Castle. His character writes books on the show and this is supposedly one of his books.

The idea of a TV character writing the actual book about characters he works with is just awesome! To be able to buy it is just a quirky thing a show like that would do.

The characters (now try to follow me if you can) are the characters from the show but not really. They are fictionalizations of the fiction characters. Things that haven’t happen to the characters on the TV show do happen in the books. That being said the characters miss something that the TV show has. I don’t know if it was the way the scenes where described but they just did not play out as smoothly in my mind as they would on TV. So I did not really enjoy this as I do the show. It had the quirkiness of the show but disappointed me somewhat. I love watching the show but I don’t know I would read another of the books.

Website:

Official Castle Website
http://beta.abc.go.com/shows/castle

Books To Talk About - The Countess by Rebecca Johns

2011-10-31T08:00:00.000-04:00

It's Halloween what better way to celebrate then to have a discussion about one of Bram Stoker's inspiration to Dracula.

The Countess is a historical fiction about Erzsébet Báthory. Based on the true story of the real Countess Bathory who killed 34 of her servants, mostly woman, for there blood. One of the things she believed was if she bathed in it would make her young. From how she became a Countess to her fate of being walled up into her castle tower for her crimes. This book brings to life the fascinating tale of the world's first female serial killer.

DISCUSS IN THE COMMENTS

1. Are there characters in the fictional world or the real world now that remind you of Countess Bathory?

2. Do you think you could ever feel sympathy for a woman who killed 34 people for the reasons she did?

3. What do you think drove her to kill?

Sunday Salon - Mischief with Books

2011-10-30T09:18:00.000-04:00

Tonight is what my town has always called Mischief Night. The night before Halloween that kids or mostly teenagers go out and teepee a yard or throw eggs at a house. You know do random mischief. This got me thinking what random mischief have you gotten into over a book? Have ever damaged a library book? or Heaven forbid stole a book?

I have to say I have never stolen probably at least once damaged a library book but I don't really remember. The most I have gotten in trouble with over a book is for reading a V.C. Andrews book in English class during a lesson. And even that was mild as the teacher didn't want to really discourage me from reading just not during the lesson.

Review - The Asking And Other Stories by Charles G. Timm

2011-10-29T09:06:00.004-04:00

Title: Asking And Other Stories
Series: Charles G. Timm
Genre: Short Stories
Publisher: Charles G. Timm
Received: from author for review
Release Date: April 2011
Pages: 25
Rating:

What is it About?

Short fictional stories about real life.

My Thoughts:

Not my usual genre. And by that I mean realistic fiction not short stories. What I mean by realistic fiction is stories bases on pretty much present day with characters that think a lot or have more conversation then really much action. That would pretty much describe these stories.

I did not dislike it but it also did not feel overwhelmed with love for the stories. I try to think of one that really stuck out to me a memorable I would have to say the second to last story, The Ride, where two co-workers discuss there future, and hopes.

For me there wasn’t enough to the story to really get to know the characters or feel for them. I see some of them as good starts to something but really unfinished.

Website:
Official Website of Charles G. Timm
http://www.charlesgtimm.com/

Giveaway - Signed Copy of Reverence by Jeanie L.S. Galster

2011-10-28T16:24:00.002-04:00

WIN A SIGNED COPY OF REVERENCE BY JEANIE L.S. GALSTER

ABOUT THE BOOK

“Reverence tells an enduring story of a young girl's internal struggles and life's lessons growing up in Philadelphia. As the demographics of the neighborhood change so does the make up of her family. Years later, fate instills upon her a precious gift. Will she use her newfound gift to help society or fulfill her own needs?

Reverence delivers a different level of emotions, one that cause anyone to black out reasoning and teeter on the tightrope of right and wrong. How her life develops will keep readers engaged until the very end.” taken from goodread.com

88 pages

part one in a series

COMMENT BELOW TO ENTER!

DO NOT FORGET EMAILS SO I MAY CONTACT YOU!!

~~GIVEAWAY WILL END NOVEMBER 10TH 2011~~

~~I WILL ANNOUNCE THE WINNERS ON THE 11TH~~

~~Yes I am giving as internationally!~~

Winners Have Been Announced! Congrats!

Review - Animal Naps by Catherine Ham

2011-10-27T09:49:00.001-04:00

Title: Animal Naps
Series: N/A
Author: Catherine Ham
Genre: Children, Picture Book
Publisher: EarlyLight Books
Received: from Publicist for review
Release Date: July 2011
Pages: 32
Rating:

What is it About?

Picture book with tidbits about animals taking there naps.

My Thoughts:

This book just did not work for me. The pictures are adorable but the prose switches back and forth to rhyming then not rhyming. Sometimes it almost seems like the words do not make sense together. This frustrates me to give it such a low rating but it was not good.
Yes it had some bits of information about animals and how or what they do when they take there naps which was cute when you catch the drift.

For such a cute cover I really thought it would of stayed cute all the way through and not here and there. There are only so many times you can use the word chap for a animal to make it rhyme.

Website:

N/A

Review - Animal Tails by Beth Fielding

2011-10-27T06:12:00.001-04:00

Title: Animal Tails
Series: N/A
Author: Beth Fielding
Genre: Children, Picture book
Publisher: Earlylight Books
Received: from Publicist for review
Release Date: October 2011
Pages: 36
Rating:

What is it About?

Discusses different animals, there tails and what they use them for.

My Thoughts:

Excellent pictures throughout the book and interesting facts. I wasn’t fond of the layout between the pictures and text. It made it less interesting to read. I found some of the descriptions to long and skimmed over the writings more then once to gather the information in my head.

I did not know a lot about animal tails to be honest I never thought about them before. It was fun learning about them I just wish it had been presented better.

Website:
N/A

Sunday Salon - Royalty Rules

2011-10-23T14:37:00.000-04:00

I started a new book club on GoodReads called Royalty Rules.

We read fiction and non-fiction books about Royalty. I know crazy me starting something else.

Attended a ghost hunting lecture last night at the Penn Museum. It was interesting. That's about all I have done for the Halloween season except watch a horror movie or two and eat some chocolate. lol

Review - Zinnia's Magical Adventure by Pippa Le Quesne

2011-10-21T08:51:00.000-04:00

Title: Zinnia’s Magical Adventure
Series: Tales From The Flower Fairies Garden
Author: Pippa Le Quesne
Genre: Children Chapter Book, Fantasy
Publisher: Frederick Warne Publishers Ltd
Received: Swapsite
Release Date: July 2006
Pages: 80
Rating:

What is it About?

Zinnia the garden fairy gets lost on a adventure.

My Thoughts:

I love Cicely Mary Barker’s art of the fairies always have but the story in the book does not do them justice. Sadly I was bored with the book. I read then had to skim the story maybe mostly because well I read a lot of faery books and this one just had no real story. Most the faery chapter books I have read have a lesson or moral. I am not saying that every book should have that but the adventure was just plain boring.

I did like the different character fairies they all seemed to have there own personality including the elves.

The art is great, book cover beautiful with a nothing to write home about tale. This is first I have read in the flower fairies series and I think I would read another to see how it is but I was really disappointed in this one.

For those that might like the series or something similar take a look at Fairy School series by Gail Herman.

Website:
Official Flower Fairies Site
http://www.flowerfairies.co.uk

Author Pippa Le Quesne Facebook Page

http://www.facebook.com/PippaLeQuesne

Review - Marigold and The Feather of Hope by J. H. Sweet

2011-10-21T08:21:00.000-04:00

Title: Marigold and the Feather of Hope
Series: The Fairy Chronicles
Author: J.H. Sweet
Genre: Children, Fantasy,
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky
Received: Swap site
Release Date: May 2007
Pages: 128
Rating:

What is it About?

Young Beth Parish learns that she is a Marigold fairy. She gains new fairy friends and a mentor in her aunt a Monarch Butterfly fairy.

My Thoughts:

Most of the fairy books for kids have the story of how the child finds out she a fairy and she goes on a adventure. This was the same but the background to the fairy history was different and I enjoyed learning from the fairy handbook of Beth.

It is cute the way they introduce other species like goblins and brownies into the fray of things.
Once things get going and you get past the introduction of Beth into fairy world all the little tidbits are just fun to read. Like Dachshunds are good at keeping goblins away and fairies use nuts to keep in contact. My most favorite little lesson was that when fairies met in circles (which don’t have to be circles by the way) they meet under different trees for the different wisdom or powers of that tree.

Overall entertaining once you get through the intro and I could see reading the rest of the series. Fans of these books might like The Fairy Godmother Academy series by Jan Bozarth.

Website:

Official Fairy Chronicles Website
http://www.fairychronicles.com/

See all of J.H. Sweet’s books
http://jhsweet.com/

Booking Through Thursday - Vacation Reading

2011-10-20T08:36:00.000-04:00

Event that takes place at
http://btt2.wordpress.com/

Do your reading habits change when you’re on vacation? Do you read more? Do you indulge in lighter, fluffier books than you usually read? Do you save up special books so you’ll be able to spend real vacation time with them? Or do you just read the same old stuff, vacation or not?

I tend to read less on vacation spend more time with family. Only time I do read on vacation is sometimes at a poolside or beach. That is when I use to read stuff like V.C. Andrews now I don't read that particular author any more so I would probably read pretty much anything I would be currently reading.

Review : The Walking Dead by Robert Kirkman and Charlie Adlard

2011-10-19T15:47:00.000-04:00

Title: The Walking Dead Vol. 1
Series: The Walking Dead
Authors: Robert Kirkman and Charlie Adlard
Genre: Horror, Graphic Novel
Publisher: Image Comics
Received: Borrowed
Release Date: October 2010
Pages: 304
Rating:

What is it About?

The dead begin walking the the earth eating the flesh of the living. Only a hand full of people struggle to survive.

My Thoughts:

I read this before the tv series came out and really enjoyed it! There are some differences to the comic then the tv show. Some characters that live in the Tv show die in the comic. The fact that some don’t survive in the comic seemed more life like then what happens on Tv.

Being that is a horror comic and features zombies the comic does it get graphic and from what I understand gets even more violent as the time goes by. Now a lot of people compare this to 28 days later which I have not seen. I am not a big fan of zombie horror but that being said I thought this comic was awesome!

A lot of people also have problem with the way woman are treated in this comic. I agree to some point that the woman should have more involvement to the protection of the community fighting but I wonder if it will be something that develops within the comic. So I lean more towards waiting to find out.

Website:

N/A

Follow Friday #6 - TV

2011-10-14T03:51:00.001-04:00

Yipee! Life Between The Pages and me are featured this week!

Welcome new followers!

Thank you Parajunkee and AlisonCanRead!

Q.If you could have characters from a particular book meet and form an epic storyline with characters from a particular TV series, which would you choose and why?

I think it would be hilarious to see the group from Twilight meet How I Met Your Mother. I picture it as every time Bella and Edward open there there mouth the HIMYM group make fart noises. Juvenile I know but it would still be funny. LOL

Review - The Royal Diaries: Anacaona: Golden Flower by Edwidge Danticat

2011-10-13T09:54:00.000-04:00

Title: The Royal Diairies: Anacaona: Golden Flower
Series: The Royal Diaries
Author: Edwidge Danticat
Genre: Juvenile Fiction, Historical Fiction
Publisher: Scholastic Inc
Received: Purchased
Release Date: April 2005
Pages: 192
Rating:

What is it About?

Told in diary format the based on true tale of Haitian Queen Anacaona.

My Thoughts:

I have only read two of the Royal Diaries series and while I like them the future never seems to bode well for the history of royalty. Anacaona does have an unfortunate fate but her life is somewhat unknown. The author takes some liberties having the future queen fear for her future as if she some how knows what will come.

I do not know much about this history but what is this tale is based on. So I do not know how much is true. Reading this children’s book make me want to find a more involved history of the Haitian Queen.

I picked this up wanted to know more about Haiti after the most resent events there. There is so much history that gets lost I think this is one tale that does because I have never heard of her.

These Royal Diaries are geared more towards girls being that all of them in the series are royal young girls but this book to me had less of a girly feel to it. It mentions her brother and how close they were. I think even boys would like this one.

Website:
N/A

Sunday Salon - When I am not Reading ... there is Art.

2011-10-09T22:24:00.000-04:00

Dreamcatcher and Love Birds made by (me) Shannon McGee

So I haven't been reading as much even with the read - a - thon I only read a chapter of one of the books. I have just been feeling more creative and need to paint or draw. So I have been working on my Etsy store and Zazzle stores Confuzzled Designs.

I just haven't been finding the book that really keep me interested or worth continuing. I hate saying that because usually I am happy to read anything. Lately it is hard to feel happy about much. I get like that though. I paint to feel better somedays it works if the painting is going well and turns out well some days it doesn't but art is one of those things that I feel I was given. It feels right to do. Reading is just something I like. I keep trying to come back to this because I have so many Arcs to read and that I said I would. It just hard because I don't feel like I get much in return from this blog. Well that is how I feel now maybe it will change tomorrow or next week or who knows. I don't want to give this blog up because I have done so much with it..

Speaking of art Love Stuff done like this

Fright Fall Read A Thon Mini Challlenge from Knitting & Sundries

2011-10-06T17:47:00.000-04:00

This mini Challenge comes from Knitting and sundries

The challenge is to make a frightful sentence out of book titles. Take a picture post it on your blog, and leave the link in the comments. If you don't have a blog post it anywhere and leave a link. Two winners international anywhere The Book Depository ships will get their choice of a frightful fall read. Leave the title of the book you'd like in the comments as well.

The Lost Angel battles against The Infernals to gain peace for The Whisperers.

Fright Fall Read a Thon at Castle Macabre

2011-10-06T17:27:00.000-04:00

Yes Yes I know I haven't posted in a while. To be honest sometimes I just lose interest and that is how I have been feeling lately. Which is why I forgot I signed up for this Read A Thon. So Although there are three days left I am going to give it a shot. Thank to Michelle for reminding me!

I haven't been reading much I have been focusing on art sometimes it is like that for me if I am not doing one I am doing the other.

But any ways on to what I am going to try to read for the Read A Thon

We have book

1) The Whisperers by John Connolly

2) The Lost Angel by Javier Sierra

3) The Infernals by John Connolly

I would like to thank Simon & Schuster for sending me these books. They look good from the outside. ;-)

All the links go to goodreads.com. Apparently Amazon links are still down or I would link to there. I don't know what is up with blogger they were down before my last post.

Winner of Pirates of Caribbean : Price of Freedom by A.C. Crispin!

2011-10-06T17:06:00.000-04:00

Congrats to Mk who was picked by Random.org generator! She was #2 of 4!

I will be contacting you soon!

I hope you all will be as excited about the next as you were about this

Review - Duke Elllington's Nutcracker Suite by Anna Celenza

2011-09-20T21:40:00.001-04:00

Title: Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker Suite
Series: N/A
Author: Anna Celenza
Genre: Children’s Book, Non- Fiction Picture Book
Publisher: Charlesbridge Publishing
Received: From Publicist for Review
Release Date: July 2011
Pages: 32
Rating:

What is it About?

Jazz extraordinaire Duke Ellington’s vision for a jazz version of the famous Nutcracker Suite. Included is a cd of the Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker Suite.

My Thoughts:

The art has a very free flowing feeling like listening to Jazz. The colors are bright, vivacious and fun to follow.

The story is not one with much action but imagination. It is fun to read the words of how Duke Ellington and his jazz entourage might have been told to play the musical suite in jazz form. Even while reading it without listening to the cd you can hear the music and feel it. I think that is what Jazz is all about.

Website:

Anna Celenza Official Website
http://www.annacelenza.com/

Review - When You Wish Upon A Star by Judy Collins

2011-09-20T21:08:00.001-04:00

Title: When You Wish Upon A Star

Series: N/A
Author: Judy Collins
Genre: Children’s Book, Picture Book
Publisher: Charlesbridge Publishing
Received: From Publicist for Review
Release Date: October 2011
Pages: 28
Rating:

What is it About?
A song written by Judy Collins with pictures adding includes a cd of 3 songs sung by the author/singer.

My Thoughts:

I really enjoyed the cd attached to the book with the three songs sung and written by Judy Collins. Her voice is beautiful. I also love the words to song When You Wish Upon Star even if I hadn’t heard it through Disney for years.

I liked the style the art was done in but the images to me didn’t capture the song. Listening to the song it sounds very different from the snippets we hear from the Disney commercials and I feel as if the images where really all over the place. I did not get the feelings that these were dreams of children or adults. I just did not understand some of the connection.

Website:

Judy Collins Official Website

http://www.judycollins.com/

Giveaway - Pirates Of The Caribbean : The Price Of Freedom by A.C. Crispin

2011-09-19T14:21:00.001-04:00

Win A Signed Copy of Pirates Of The Caribbean: The Price Of Freedom by A.C. Crispin

COMMENT BELOW TO ENTER!

DO NOT FORGET EMAILS SO I MAY CONTACT YOU!!

~~GIVEAWAY WILL END OCTOBER 3RD 2011~~

~~I WILL ANNOUNCE THE WINNERS ON THE 4TH ALONG WITH A NEW MYSTERY CONTEST!~~

~~Yes I am giving as internationally!~~

Winner Has Been Announced

Musing Monday - Just for Fun

2011-09-19T14:02:00.000-04:00

Event Takes Place At Should Be Reading blog

How often do you read a book, just because you’re in the mood to read it? (not because you’re obligated to for a book club, or a challenge, or for review)

I try to make one of my many book I read a week one that isn't required reading. Most of my books are Advanced Readers. Sometimes I think I shouldn't even read that one book because I have so many Advanced Reader books that I really need a second reviewer here maybe even a third person. But any ways I have to read at least one that is just for fun or this becomes not fun anymore.

Get Your Blog Featured Links

2011-09-15T16:23:00.000-04:00

After reading a guest post by Issy Eyre of Fennel & Fern on Problogger.net, on Use Showcase Sites To Boost Your Blog’s Readership. I became curious to know what sites out there might showcase book bloggers. The article mentions a few sites on Gardening and Cooking but nothing on book blogging.

So here is what I came up with in my search. I am sure I am missing someone so if you feature book bloggers or bloggers of any type in a spotlight please let me know I will add you to the list.

Here is a site I was given to go to help promote my art work by children’s author Donna Perugini the site is called The SITSGirls.com. True this cancels out the boys but I think the majority of us book bloggers are female. Now I have not seen a book blogger featured on this site but I think it might be open. They feature a blogger every week day and do have a book club. You have to fill out a form and follow some steps.

You can also go to Parajunkee’s View who partners up with Alison Can Read to feature two book bloggers every Friday in there Follow Friday linkup.

This one I don’t know how you get featured but I know she does feature book bloggers. The Parchment Girl features book bloggers on which doesn’t seem like a set day but she has a nice site and all of the blogs mentioned are well written.

Now I haven’t been featured yet at any of these sites but will appear at one soon.;-)

Review - Cirque Du Freak : The Manga #2 by Darren Shan

2011-09-14T20:45:00.000-04:00

Title: Cirque du Freak : The Manga #2
Series: Cirque Du Freak
Author: Darren Shan
Genre: Manga, Fantasy
Publisher: Yen Press
Received: Borrowed from library
Release Date: August 2009
Pages: 192
Rating:

What is it About?
Young Darren Shan deals with being different then other teenagers, he is a vampire and lives with the people of Cirque Du Freak

My Thoughts:

I do not know if the original books have the campiness that the movie and the manga have. This makes it more enjoyable and the images fun. Characters are likable and relate-able. The fact that Darren Shan named the character that is a vampire after himself is just awesome. I knew what was going to happen as I saw the movie and I believe this second book end is where the movie does. Although some parts are left out of the movie. I love the friendship with the fellow Cirque Du Freak characters that Darren has immediately.

I do want to read the original books to see the difference from the mangas. I always got the feeling there was a different feel to them compared. The manga is fun, exciting, and creative.

Website:

Darren Shan Official Site
http://www.darrenshan.com/

Teaser Tuesday - The Birth Of Venus

2011-09-13T16:25:00.000-04:00

I am not at this part in the book but this is what I turned to!

"I shall not bore you with descriptions of our second experience of intercourse. My reticence is not meant to tease or intrigue.." The Birth of Venus by Sarah Dunant

Review - After The Rain : Virginia's Civil War Diary Book 2 by Mary Pope Osborne

2011-09-13T07:21:00.000-04:00

Title: After the Rain : Virginia’s Civil War Diary Book 2
Series: My America
Author: Mary Pope Osborne
Genre: Juvenile Fiction, Historical Fiction
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Received: Purchased
Release Date: May 2002
Pages: 112
Rating:

What is it About?
A children historical fiction series this is part 2 in Virginia’s Civil War Diary. The family moves to Washington City near the end of the Civil War.

My Thoughts:

This second book was better then the first. It could be that there were more moments I could relate to like Virginia letting envy get into her heart because her family was poor and she worked for a rich family with children her age that got more than her. Yes I could relate to that.

While this book was pretty down for the most part it wasn’t down the whole time. It like life had it’s ups and downs where in the first book I didn’t see much ups at all.

Although this is a second book in Virginia’s books it can be read by it self. I can see
this one making a good book report for the kids.

Website:
N/A

Review - The Secret Soldier : The Story of Deborah Sampson by Ann McGovern

2011-09-12T19:01:00.000-04:00

Title: The Secret Soldier: The Story of Deborah Sampson
Series: N/A
Author: Ann McGovern
Genre: Biography
Publisher: Scholastic Paperback
Received: purchased
Release Date: 1975
Pages: 64
Rating:

What is it About?

Children’s biography on Deborah Sampson, a woman who dressed as a man and fought in the American Revolution.

My Thoughts:

Written in short entertaining paragraphs which I can only assumed where formed from Deborah Sampson diary as the book states she kept one most of her life after she learned to read. Deborah was known to be a very smart child and as a adult even taught as a school teacher for a while until she became eager to travel the world. She saw her chance in joining the American Revolution dressed as a man. She even fooled her own mother dressed up.

The book is easy to read and entertaining with drawings of Deborah and her history. I think it is an excellent read for children to learn how far women have gotten to this day and in Deborah’s time period. I would be interested to see more books about her. I do not know if any books are out there in adult format but there should be if her diary is around.

Website:
N/A

Sunday Salon - Delving Into Fantasy Football

2011-09-11T21:00:00.000-04:00

Since football will dominate my TV during it’s season. I decided to join my husband fantasy football league. My team name is the Buddhas, hence the image above. I made it from some free clip art on the web. So far I am beating my opponent this week and my team that I drafted is projected to get the most points. It has made the game more fun to watch.

This week I am reading Pirates of the Caribbean: The Price of Freedom by AC Crispin, The Birth of Venus by Sarah Dunant, The Literary Ladies Guide to Writing Life by Nava Atlas and My America: After The Rain: Virginia’s Civil War Diary Book 2 by Mary Pope Osborne.

I actually have over 20 books in my queue to review that I have finished I just have to write them up. I decided to go back to my old schedule for the blog. I needed a break from it before so I wasn’t writing or reading as much. Sometimes it is just time to take a break.

Patriotic Day Book List

2011-09-10T22:31:00.000-04:00

September 11th is Patriot Day in the U.S.

I thought it would be a good time to make a list of patriotic books that I have read, liked and reviewed or soon will. So in Completely random order here they are.

If You Lived At The Time Of The Civil War by Kay Moore

Okay so most of these books are children books, like this one. I am a beginner at reading history the most I usually read about was history of the Romanovs...so not much U.S. history. I enjoying learning things that I did not know about and kids books have way of making learning easier if you haven't read anything about the history before. I am an trivia junkie so seeing the people made famous from this point in history at the end of the book was a bonus along with the most important parts of the the history. My Full Review

If You Lived At The Time Of The American Revolution If You Lived At The Time Of The American Revolution If You Lived At The Time Of The American Revolution If You Lived At The Time Of The American Revolution If You Lived At The Time Of The American Revolution by Kay Moore

This was another one from the If You Lived Series. The series like the one above tend to tell you about both side of the people fighting the war or what is known. They do talk about what children did

some of the time as it is geared to children. My Full Review

My America: My Brother's Keeper: Virginia's Civil War Diary, Book One by Mary Pope Osborne

This one was only okay and takes place during the civil war. It is historical fiction of a little girl name Virginia's diary during a rough point. It is only part one I have part two and plan on reading it hoping for a better story. My Full Review

Our Finest Hour: The Triumphant Spirit of America's World War II Generation by Killian Jordan and Barbara Baker

I picked this up at a used book store not really sure what I was getting but I know I wanted a book on WWII and this was all they had. I enjoyed it. It was simple pictures and quotes. The were some paragraphs to read as well but it was very visual. My Grandfathers fought in the WWII so it was interesting to have a look at that time. My Full Review Coming Soon!

The Secret Soldier: The Story of Deborah Sampson (Scholastic Biography)by Ann McGovern

This is another children's book but this time a biography of Deborah Sampson. A woman who dressed as a man and fought in the Revolutionary War. I think this was good one for anyone to read and remember how woman use to be treated and how far they have come. My Full Review Coming Soon!

Follow Friday #5 Villians

2011-09-09T07:29:00.000-04:00

http://www.parajunkee.com/search/label/FF" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4019/4710921228_e3140444bf_o.png" />

Q. Have you ever wanted a villain to win at the end of a story? If so, which one??

I can't think of a book with a villian that I wanted to win but there have been definately flawed characters that I have wanted to have a happier ending. For example I just finished The Great Gatsby and every character in it is flawed there is no real bad guy they are all kinda bad at some point. You just kinda hope they gain some sense.

Review - The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

2011-09-08T15:27:00.000-04:00

Title: The Great Gatsby
Series: N/A
Author: F. Scott Fitzgerald
Genre: Classic, Fiction
Publisher: Scribner
Received: Purchased
Release Date: 1925
Pages: 180
Rating:

What is it About?

A Man named Gatsby, his friends and his interesting life.

My Thoughts:

This book has often been described as Fitzgerald’s most beautiful piece of work and frankly I do not see it. I first read this book as a teenager for fun and remember disliking it immensely but later not remembering why. Now that I ave reread it I realize what that is. The type of people described and the way they act irk me. They are well off family surrounded by people that do
things to each other with no feelings. They just keep hurting each other without caring about the consequences.

In the beginning of the book it is very boring and does not become interesting until Gatsby becomes involved in the story but the way people act towards one another.

I do not really see the beauty in this story but I do see commentary on society I just do not agree with it.

Website:
N/A

Review - Painted Bride Quarterly : Print Annual 1

2011-09-08T14:24:00.001-04:00

Title: Painted Bride Quarterly : Print Annual 1
Series: Painted Bride Quarterly
Author: Various
Genre: Poetry
Publisher: Painted Bride Quarterly
Received: Free for Review
Release Date: February 2003
Pages: 313
Rating:

What is it About?

A book of various authors poetry, essays and interviews.

My Thoughts:

Most of the poetry in this edition I don’t feel I really grasped the sense of what the author was trying to bring across but the few gems I did really stood out. Poetry about the meaning of being in this world by Katrine Marie Gulager. The somewhat humorous poem “Male Gorillas” by Ruth Stone. Humor and poetry are something I am never sure about. I think the author means it to be funny and I like that because it seems different with poetry and there were a few poems like that. Including one made up interview with Popeye’s Olive Oil.

I give the rating to the poems I liked in this one which are only a handful and there are a lot in here. The ones I related to where just so good that I could not see giving it low stars because I did not understand the rest.

Website:

Painted Bride Quarterly Official Site
http://pbq.drexel.edu/pbq/

Thorin's Review - Divine Misfortune by A. Lee Martinez

2011-09-07T15:21:00.000-04:00

Title: Divine Misfortune
Series: N/A
Author: A. Lee Martinez
Genre: Fantasy
Publisher: Orbit
Received: Purchased
Release Date: April 2011
Pages: 352
Rating:

What it's About:
In a world where deities are numerous and bestow gifts on their attentive followers (and curses on their less attentive ones) it's tough to get by without a little divine help. But the main characters, Teri and Phil, have been trying. The risks of pissing off your patron, not to mention costs of sacrifices and other observations, is totally unappealing to them. They don't want a personal god. But after the keep seeing neighbors and rivals make out better with a little divine help, they give in and get their own god. Nothing too serious, just an easy going, raccoon-headed god of luck name Lucky.
Then he shows up himself on their doorstep like a character Norm MacDonald should be playing, and moves in. He brings in another divine freeloader too, and hilarity ensues. Or, at least it should...

My Thoughts
Really, this is just a soap opera where some of the characters, instead of being pretty white people, are pretty dieties. Any good fantasy book uses the supernatural as metaphores to explore the human condition. This book doesn't use it's gods as metaphores for humans, it just treats them as humans. They have some powers, but those are entirely tangential to the story. The gods are just people too. In fact, you could have substituted the gods with rich benfactors, and it wouldn't change the story at all. It's a cheap gimmick used by a hack to rip out a piece of schlock..

This book wasn't unenjoyable, it's good for an easy beach read I guess, but it totally wastes its central premiss and genre. I wish a better, more creative writer would take this concept and do it justice.

Website:

A. Lee Martinez Official Site
http://www.aleemartinez.com/

Review - Dael And The Painted People by Allan Richard Shickman

2011-09-05T15:24:00.002-04:00

Title: Dael and the Painted People
Series: Zan-Gah #3
Author: Allan Richard Shickman
Genre: Juvenile Fiction, Prehistoric Fiction
Publisher: Earthshaker Books
Received: From Publisher for Review
Release Date: August 2011
Pages: 168
Rating:

What is it About?

Third book from the Zan-Gah series. Zan-Gah’s twin brother Dael finds a new life among the “Painted People”. Still dealing with his guilt of his past transgressions, Dael searches for his place in the world.

My Thoughts:
Thoroughly enjoyable and powerful writing, this third installment of the series has a different voice than the first two. Here we have the original character, Zan-Gah’s twin brother Dael. Dael is now a young man with a past that haunts him. This book takes place directly after the second book where Dael and ,a young girl, Sparrow try to find meaning to their life after outcasting themselves from their original clans.

I read this quickly and really did enjoy this series but one part about the book bothered me . It has stuck with me after reading the book and this thing kinda rubbed me the wrong way which was at one point the book breaks the 4th wall. I felt Mr. Shickman had a powerful reason for doing so but when it happens I just felt like the reader was getting yelled at. It didn’t stop me from liking the book but I think it took me away from the healing message that Dael life was going through and as I think of the book now my mind keeps going to that 4th wall break.

Although I took one star off from 5 I still love this series and think that in general it should be promoted more because I have never seen or read anything else like it.

Website:

Offical Zan-Gah Site
http://www.zan-gah.com/