It's Monday, What Are You Reading? November 30, 09

Hello Followers!

This meme is hosted by J. Kaye.

Read This Past Week:

Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld
The Book of Living and Dying by Natale Ghent

Currently Reading:

Wide Awake by David Levithan

To Read This Week:

Hamlet by William Shakespeare
Tender Morsels by Margo Lanagan
Graceling by Kristin Cashore

Updates:

- I'm catching up on blogging! Going to try and blog every day in December, then I'll start up my writing blog along with my reading one!

-Expect reviews for The Book of Living and Dying and Wide Awake tomorrow!

Emma Out!

July 26, 09 The Book of Living and Dying by Natale Ghent

Look at this Awesome Contest!

Hello Followers!

You should check out this fantastic contest hosted by a friend of mine. Go enter! There's Sarah Dessen, Scott Westerfeld and John Green books involved! How can you REFUSE?




Emma Out!

July 25, 09 Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld

So, after I went to the BOOK SIGNING...(which I have yet to post about, I know...) I immediately started Leviathan, because well, Scott made it sound so GOOD! And THRILLING!

Leviathan is about Alek, the son of the archduke whose assassination started World War I is running away from the people who want to kill him. Deryn is a girl who is masquerading as a boy in order to serve in the Air Navy. But here's the twist on the Great War, Darwin had found DNA long ago in Leviathan's world and the Eastern Europeans are making machines that we haven't even been able to create. There are two sides, the British are Darwinists, those who use fabricated animals as their war weapons and the Germans are Clankers, those who use machinery instead. Alek and Dervyn's lives intertwine when they meet each other on a unique airship. Secrets are abundant in this thrilling steampunk novel.

This book was absolutely amazing. The characters were extremely well developed, the alternate third person narration was perfect for this novel, and the action was thrilling. I was on the edge of my seat multiple times. I changed sides from Clankers to Darwinists and back again constantly. I liked Dervyn from the beginning because of her being a strong independent young woman, Alek took some time to grow on me but I understood him immediately. The side characters like Dr. Barlow and Volger were interesting adults who I'd love to see more of later on. Steampunk as a genre was a new experience for me and I loved the combination of future and past! I wonder how far Westerfeld is going to deviate from the actual war, for all I know maybe even the Germans win in this version! It was definitely set up for another novel, and I can't wait to get my hands on the sequel as soon as possible!

Emma Out!

July 24, 09 The Boyfriend List by E. Lockhart

Hello Blog Readers!

So, after Going Bovine, I briefly read The Boyfriend List by E. Lockhart in one day, since I had heard so much about it and it was due at the library soon.

The Boyfriend List is about Ruby Oliver. A girl who was reasonably happy, that is, until she kissed her ex boyfriend and her social life blew to smithereens. She goes to therapy now. Her psychologist asked her to write a list of all the boys she was romantically involved with. This is her story.

I loved this book! Ruby was a quirky and fun character. I liked the pacing and the chapter structure as well as the writing. Also I loved how the frog on the cover was relevant to the novel. Really well done novel, although I preferred The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks. One question though: What is up with E. Lockhart's protagonists always falling in love with assholes? Something to ponder.


Like my new background? I needed a change. I might try to get someone to do it for me though, if I come across the money to do so. *sighs* Also, I'm considering having a review structure so my reviews are more fun and interesting. Any suggestions? I'd love input!

Emma Out!

July 23, 09 Going Bovine by Libba Bray

HI!

Now I get to do a REALLY REALLY BIG REVIEW. Because, um, I'm been keeping a secret from you followers.

I'm in love with Libba Bray.

Well, I love her writing and general awesomeness. The Gemma Doyle Trilogy is by far my favorite series of books ever. I was BOUNCING OFF THE WALLS when I found out a new novel of hers was coming out. And Going Bovine well...

It lived up to my expectations and THEN SOME.


Going Bovine is about Cameron, a boy who has just discovered that he has mad cow disease. When an angel Dulcie comes to visit him and tell him he has a mission that could save his life, he goes on a crazy road trip with a video game obsessed dwarf and a garden gnome who is really a Nordic God. Insanity, questions about human consciousness, and fun ensue.

Going Bovine...wow. I fell for it as soon as I read the first line. The characters were endearing and realistic, the writing was as amazing as ever and the message was really unique and so...Libba. By far the best book I have read since reading The Sweet Far Thing in March of 08. When I read the ending I stared at it for a long time and smiled. My only complaint is that now I'll have to wait I don't know HOW long for more Libba! *pouts*



Emma Out!

TBR Tuesday November 24, 09

HELLO FOLLOWERS!

Yeah I know I haven't posted book signing stuff yet and I didn't post anything yesterday but...I'M SICK. I have a DECENT EXCUSE. So HAH! Anyways, to be read tuesday was created by my lovely and amaztastic friend Korianne.

Hacking Harvard by Robin Wasserman

Goodreads Description:

"It's the ultimate challenge: breaking into the Ivy League.The hack: To get one deadbeat, fully unqualified slacker into the most prestigious school in the country. The crew: Eric Roth -- the good guy, the voice of reason. Max Kim -- the player who made the bet in the first place. Schwartz -- the kid genius already on the inside...of Harvard, that is. Lexi -- the beauty-queen valedictorian who insists on getting in the game.The plan: Use only the most undetectable schemes and techno-brilliant skills. Don't break the Hacker's Code. Don't get distracted. Don't get caught. Take down someone who deserves it.The stakes: A lot higher than they think. They've got the players, the plot, and soon -- the prize.It's go time."

I read Skinned by the same author and loved it! This looks right up my alley!


Crash Into Me by Albert Borris

Goodreads Description:

"Owen, Frank, Audrey, and Jin-Ae have one thing in common: they all want to die. When they meet online after each attempts suicide and fails, the four teens make a deadly pact: they will escape together on a summer road trip to visit the sites of celebrity suicides...and at their final destination, they will all end their lives. As they drive cross-country, bonding over their dark impulses, sharing their deepest secrets and desires, living it up, hooking up, and becoming true friends, each must decide whether life is worth living--or if there's no turning back."

This book very interesting. I love the cover.









Yeah...I'm still reading Leviathan and can't give you another teaser. So that's it!

EMMA OUT!

In My Mailbox November 22, 09

Yeah I know I promised you book signing posts. THEY COME TOMORROW. PROMISE. Anyways, I got a new library book that I thought I should share! IMM is hosted by The Story Siren.

July 22, 09 Just Ella by Margaret Peterson Haddix

ANOTHER REVIEW. The wild animal has been spotted ONCE MORE! I think this one will be nicer. I read Just Ella because of a librarian recommendation.

Just Ella is about Ella, commonly known as Cinderella. But it's after the ball and the glass slipper, and Ella has discovered that the royal life isn't all that it seems. The people are dull, so is the lifestyle and even the Prince is vapid. But Ella figures out an scape plan and with the help of a servant girl and a cute boy, Ella will take charge of her destiny once again. This is the TRUE story of Cinderella.

I thought this book was really clever. I liked some of the theories Haddix created and Ella was generally likable. I would probably love this novel if it wasn't for the fact that no remake of Cinderella will ever be as amazing as Ella Enchanted in my mind. Really good novel, but not on the same level Ella Enchanted is.


Emma Out!

July 21, 09 earthgirl by Jennifer Cowan

Yes, wow, a review.

A rare breed on Booking Through 365, it only emerges when Emma is sick or motivated. WOW it has APPEARED. I read earthgirl AGES ago.

earthgirl is about Sabine Solomon. When some soccer mom throws McDonalds at her she becomes an eco warrior. Starting a blog all about the environment, and getting a job at a organic food store, where she meets her environmentally conscious boyfriend, Vray. When Vray starts going to extremes, Sabine must choose between ethics and activism.


Characters: Sabine was an intriguing character who was eager to discover herself and her beliefs. I didn't immediately like her, but about half way through the book I started to understand her need to change the world. Her boyfriend lacked any real depth, and I couldn't understand why she likes the poseur. Her friends' and her family's lack of support in her environmental exploits seemed unrealistic, especially in this day and age where if you don't recycle or drive a gas guzzler car someone is sure to notice. But maybe this is just in my community where there are a lot of university and high school kids. 3 and a half flowers.

Writing: The use of blog form was clever here. Dialogue and pacing weren't my favorite aspects of this book, but the depictions of first love felt real and true. The ultimate question of this story was if extremism or activism that is more socially acceptable was a better way to approach changing the world, and it was written perfectly. 3 flowers.

Plot: The book didn't seem to have any real plot, except for Sabine discovering her environmental views, until towards the end. I would've liked if the plot point described in the dust jacket had been stretched out for longer. 2 and a half flowers.

Originality: This section is where the book deserves major points. I don't think I've seen any YA books whose main plot has to do with environmentalism. I'm sure I'll be seeing more of these in the future, but for now, it was a very refreshing take on coming of age. 5 flowers.


MORE REVIEWS SOON!

Emma Out!

Waiting on Wednesday November 18, 09

Hello!

Surprised that I am posting two days in a row? Yeah I know. I have to BUILD this blog back up!

Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Breaking the Spine. I'm going to mention two sequels that come out in quite a while and sadly don't have covers.





The Last Blue Envelope by Maureen Johnson

No Cover

This is the sequel to Thirteen Little Blue Envelopes. I realllyyy want to read this one.

Release Date: Sometime in 2011

The Demon's Covenant by Sarah Rees Brennan

No Cover

Goodreads Description:

The Demon's Covenant is the sequel to The Demon's Lexicon. Mae was always in control, but suddenly everyone she trusted is lying--and in danger.

[close] The Demon's Covenant is the sequel to The Demon's Lexicon. Mae was always in control, but suddenly everyone she trusted is lying--and in danger. [close]

Release Date: May 18, 2010

Actually...I haven't read The Demon's Lexicon. *hides* But it looks really good!

Yeah I know that was pathetic. But my Wednesdays are BUSY! You will get book signing posts soon! I promise!

Emma Out!

TBR/Teaser Tuesday November 17, 09

Hey!

I have absolutely no time to be writing this right now but I am DOING SO ANYWAY. See, I am loyal! So, while I know I haven't done my signing posts yet I will on Saturday for sure! I GUARANTEE! You can totally force me to eat a blenderized salad if not. And you think I'm joking. To Be Read Tuesday was started by my lovely friend Korianne.

Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows by JK Rowling

Goodreads Description:

"The heart of Book 7 is a hero's mission--not just in Harry's quest for the Horcruxes, but in his journey from boy to man--and Harry faces more danger than that found in all six books combined, from the direct threat of the Death Eaters and you-know-who, to the subtle perils of losing faith in himself. Attentive readers would do well to remember Dumbledore's warning about making the choice between "what is right and what is easy," and know that Rowling applies the same difficult principle to the conclusion of her series. While fans will find the answers to hotly speculated questions about Dumbledore, Snape, and you-know-who, it is a testament to Rowling's skill as a storyteller that even the most astute and careful reader will be taken by surprise. "

This is the only one left of the HP series that I haven't read. I'm really eager to read it.



Dramarama by E. Lockhart

Goodreads Description:

"Two theater-mad, self-invented, fabulositon Ohio teenagers.
One boy, one girl.
One gay, one straight.
One black, one white.
And SUMMER DRAMA CAMP.
It's a season of
hormones,
gold lamé,
hissy fits,
jazz hands,
song and dance,
true love,
and unitards
that will determine their future
and test their friendship."

I've loved all other E. Lockhart books I've read. Can't wait!



Now, it's time for teasers!

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

It's longer than two sentences but it's worth it.

"Deryn clenched her teeth, wondering how long she'd been up there. Weren't ten minutes almost up? Or had her sense of time gone crook in the vast, cold sky?
Her eyes darted back and forth between the rolled-up yellow cloth and the approaching storm, wondering what a boy would do."

-Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld

Emma Out!

It's Monday, What Are You Reading? November 16, 09

Hiya!

YES I AM BACK. I have so much to TELL YOU! But I'll do that later. This meme is hosted by J. Kaye.

Read This Past Week:

The Boyfriend List by E. Lockhart.
Going Bovine by Libba Bray (FINALLY yes!)

Currently Reading:

Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld

To Read This Week:

Wide Awake by David Levithan

Updates:

-Yes I went to the Holly Black, Scott Westerfeld and Cassandra Clare event! It was AMAZING! I LOVED IT! But I'll do a separate post about that.

-There WILL be a contest! I PROMISE you!

Emma Out!