Wonderful Children’s Literature: Allen Say

Today is Allen Say’s birthday.
Born in Yokohama, Japan, in 1937
He has a very enthralling biography: Allen Say

What we love about his stories are that they are poignant and simple yet have depth…okay, that is what I love. I also love it that he is telling “life-stories”. The children loved the books because the stories were not boring as the book told its story with warmth while the illustrations captured their attention.

I would like to highlight a few of our favorite books written and illustrated by Allen Say, in honor of his birthday.

Grandfather’s Journey
copyright 1993
1994 Caldecott Medal

Description:
Through compelling reminiscences of his grandfather's life in America and Japan, Allen Say gives us a poignant account of a family's unique cross-cultural experience. He warmly conveys his own love for his two countries, and the strong and constant desire to be in both places at once.
For audiences ages 4 to 8

My Thoughts: This is our favorite Allen Say story. It is simply told yet very effective. The illustrations are brilliant. The Caldecott Medal is well deserved. What I like most about this story is that is based on Say’s own Grandfather’s experience.
Grandfather’s Journey will be a good read for “I” and “G”.

Tea with Milk
copyright 1999

Description: from Publisher’s Weekly
Say's masterfully executed watercolors tell as much of this story about a young woman's challenging transition from America to Japan as his eloquent, economical prose. Raised near San Francisco, Masako (her American friends called her May) is uprooted after high school when her parents return to their Japanese homeland. In addition to repeating high school to learn Japanese, she must learn the arts of a "proper Japanese lady", flower arranging, calligraphy and the tea ceremony and is expected to marry well. Declaring "I'd rather have a turtle than a husband," the independent-minded Masako heads for the city of Osaka and gets a job in a department store....
Through choice words and scrupulously choreographed paintings, Say's story communicates both the heart's yearning for individuality and freedom and how love and friendship can bridge cultural chasms. Ages 4-8.

My Thoughts: Again, another well told story that brings you into the world of an immigrant. My older girls enjoyed this story greatly when they were younger. I bet, EJ (age 10) would still enjoy this read. As this story has more depth plus it is a bit longer, I will wait a bit of time before introducing this one to “I” and “G”.
The illustrations? It goes without saying, superb!

The Bicycle Man
copyright 1982

Description:
The amazing tricks two American soldiers perform on a borrowed bicycle are a fitting finale for the school sports day festivities in a small village in occupied Japan.

My Thoughts: It never ceases to amaze me at how well Allen Say brings children into his stories of life and this one is no exception. I loved how he tells about the special day to the Japanese children – Sportsday - when two American soldiers came upon the scene in post-WWII, occupied Japan. This story is told with awe and appreciation for the “strangers”.
My older children were entertained by this story. The illustrations are a delight.
This story for “I” and “G” will be one read through the illustrations versus the words. As “I” and “G” obtain more overall attentiveness with lengthier books, Bicycle Man’s story will be read in full.

Emma’s Rug
copyright 1996

Description:
Emma is a gifted young artist whose most prized possession is a small, shaggy rug. When her mother accidentally puts the rug in the washing machine and destroys it, Emma is devastated and ceases her art.

My Thoughts: Yet again, another fabulous book by Allen Say. The man certainly has a storytelling gift that draws children into the story’s world. Again, his illustrations are so integral to the story itself. The older girls were mesmerized by this story when it was read to them. They enjoyed viewing the illustrations as they added fuller emotion into the story. This will be another “I” and “G” read where we will utilize the illustration first along with paraphrasing for telling the story and as they gain greater attentiveness the full written story will be added into the mix.

Tree of Cranes
copyright 1991

Description:
As a young Japanese boy recovers from a bad chill, his mother busily folds origami paper into delicate silver cranes in preparation for the boy's very first Christmas.

My Thoughts: This is a magical story that intrigued my older girls as it told them of Japanese culture and a young boy experiencing two cultures within his home as he experience his first Christmas. The illustrations are vivid while the story is simple yet purposeful. Another true story based of when Say’s own mother made him a tree of cranes. This story also sparked my girls’ interest in origami. Fun!

Time to pull out these well loved stories and start reading them to “I” and “G” who are 6 and 3 years old.

Time to pull them out today!

Other Stuff:
Allen Say
Web English Teacher – here you will find lesson plans for all of the above mentioned books and an author study,
Katie's Literature Lounge - she has highlighted a few other Allen Say books.

Dance of the Gods by Nora Roberts

Dance of the Gods: Circle Trilogy, book 2
By Nora Roberts
Copyright 2006

Challenge: Royal’s Romance Reading Challenge, 100+ Reading Challenge

Back Cover:
Blair Murphy has always worked alone. Destined to be a demon hunter in a world that doesn't believe in such things, she lives for the kill. But now she finds herself the warrior in a circle of six, chosen by the goddess Morrigan to defeat the vampire Lilith and her minions.
Learning to trust the others has been hard, for Blair has never allowed herself such a luxury. But she finds herself drawn to Larkin, a man of many shapes. As a horse, he is proud and graceful; as a dragon, beautifully fierce; and as a man...well, Blair has seen her share of hunks, but none quite so ruggedly handsome and playfully charming as this nobleman from the past.
In two months' time, the circle of six will face Lilith and her army in Gaell. To complete preparations and round up forces to fight, the circle travels through time to Larkin's world, where Blair much choose between battling her overwhelming attraction to him - or risk everything for a love that can never be...

First Sentence:
Through the house, still as a grave, Larkin limped.

I really liked this story and I am a bit surprised at that.
You may be asking, "Why are you surprised?" My answer, "I am surprised because I did not like Morrigan's Cross (Circle Trilogy, book 1) that much.
Honestly, I did not expect to like Dance of the Gods, period.
I thought I would drag myself through the book.

You now may be asking, "Why read this book at all if you thought you would have to drag yourself through the read?".
My answer, "I decided to read Dance of the Gods because my friend, Shari, told me that the series does get better. Besides, she said Cian is her favorite Vampire. Well, if not for anything else, I need to read these books just to find out about Cian ."
Yes, my friends,my dear readers, that is the only reason why I decided to go forth with the series because I tell ya, Morrigan's Cross did not give me the desire to read forth.

"Tell us Deanna, What did you like about this book?"
My answer, "Characters, characters! If I was not convinced before, I most certainly am now! I am a character driven reader. Yes, of course, the plot is important. However, for me, if the characters are not endearing, are not calling to me, are not well developed then I do not care about the plot. For me, if I do not feel some sort of pull towards a character, if I do not see some depth in a few of the characters then the story is doomed.

Dance with the Gods delivered in character development. With Morrigan's Cross, I did not connect with the main characters and only felt a slight pull towards the others.
Dance with the Gods brought me right into the characters of Blair and Larkin. They are not perfect but they do have a lot going for them. I felt like I understood them. I felt the rightness of them not only as individuals but also as a couple.
Not only did I like the "main" characters, I rather enjoyed Moira and Cian.
I did not care for Moira in the last book but gosh...she has grown. I am thinking, thus far, her character has developed the most. I like her.
Cian, okay, I am seeing why Shari likes him. I do not know about Shari but, for me, his strength comes from his coolness. He stands more in the background and observes. He keeps a distance (his coolness). Yet, when the man speaks, he speaks direct with knowledge, strength and authority. At the same time, he is respectful. I am not sure if I truly read a description of his looks, if so it was in passing, yet, just by his demeanor, he exudes an aura that is alluring.
Now, here is the kicker, I liked Glenna and Hoyt in this book.
Yep, they have grown on me.

There still is one part that does not grab me much and that would be the magic and sorcery stuff. I guess that I am just not into that type of read. I have noticed this dislike before in other books as well.
The story, I enjoyed. I love action and when the heroine kicks arse!
Blair kicks arse! Sometimes she is over the top physically but mostly she is awesome. I enjoy good fight scenes. Hmmm....what does that say about me? Anyways, I connected with the story, with the mission.

Dance with the Gods did a good job building up to the show down which will occur in the next book, Valley of Silence. I am so looking forward to reading Valley of Silence not only for the action but also for the characters. Mostly though, with honesty, I want to read Valley of Silence because of Cian! Yep, I want to read more of him...like I said, he is alluring.

Dance with the Gods was very satisfying!
I truly enjoyed this read.

Rating: 3.75/4 stars

Mom-Musings Blog Note:
This month on Mom-Musings, I am giving away two books!
You could win:
Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning - Ends Aug 20th...check this post for details.
AND/OR
Destined for an Early Grave by Jeaniene Frost - Ends Aug. 31...check this post for details.

Magic Study by Maria V. Snyder

Magic Study: Study Series, book 2
by Maria V. Snyder
Copyright 2006

Challenge: 100+ Reading Challenge

Back Cover:
Yelena is a survivor. Kidnapped as a child, held prisoner as a teen, then released to act as a poison taster, she is now a student of magic. But these magic skills place her in imminent danger, and with an execution order on her head, she has no choice but to escape to Sitia, the land of her birth.
But nothing in Sitia is familiar. As she struggles to understand where she belongs and how to control her powers, a rogue magician emerges and Yelena catches his eye. Suddenly she is embroiled in a situation not of her making. And once again her magical abilities will either save her life or be her downfall.
With her greatest enemy dead, and on her way to be reunited with the family she'd been stolen from long ago, Yelena should be pleased. But though she has gained her freedom, she can't help feeling isolated in Sitia. Her Ixian background has changed her in many ways and her new-found friends and relatives don't think it's for the better.

First Sentence:
”We’re here.” Irys said.
I looked around. The surrounding jungle bulged with life.

The story spun its magic which held my attention from beginning to end. I could not turn the pages fast enough to see where the story would take me.
Yes, Magic Study's pace, action and intrigue captured me.

I truly like Yelena. She is a strong and resourceful young woman. The adverse situations she faces would make me quiver with fear. Yelena has standards that she is not willing to compromise - admirable. She is a wealth of courage and strategic thinking - admirable. I am utterly amazed that Yelena survives all that is thrown her way. She manages to get herself out of many terrible situations. I often wonder, how would I handle it myself? I would like to think that I would be brave and strong. I suppose that is one reason why I like Yelena, I live the fantasy of such strength and courage through characters such a her.

I loved meeting Yelena's parents along with her brother - Leif. The addition of Leif adds dimension to the story. I was thrilled to see Ari and Janco. I love those two. Their easy relationship with Yelena is one of brotherly concern, banter and protectiveness. Valek appears in the story. He again is Yelena's rock, her strength, her love. Yes, I like Valek. Yes, I like Yelena with Valek. I only wish there was more interaction between Valek and Yelena. They make a great team.

The story itself had enough twist and turns that kept me reading and wanting to know what would happen. I liked Poison Study better but perhaps that is because, I am seeing a trend here, I do not care so much for stories that rely heavily on magically stuff such as mind-reading. However, Magic Study was, like I said previously, and intriguing read.

Even though I prefer to see more of a Valek-Yelena partnership and I am not into mind-reading elements, I truly enjoyed Magic Study.

Magic Study delivered and did not disappoint.
I look forward to reading the next "Study” installment - Fire Study.

Rating: 4/5 stars

Mom-Musings Blog Note:
This month on Mom-Musings, I am giving away two books!
You could win:
Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning - Ends Aug 20th...check this post for details.
AND/OR
Destined for an Early Grave by Jeaniene Frost - Ends Aug. 31...check this post for details.

Thursday Tunes: David Garrett

Thursday Tunes is hosted by S. Krishna's Books. Each week music will be showcased. Join in on the fun, share what you are listening to, what music artist you have discovered, to see what others are showcasing, etc.
S.Krishna's Books - Thursday Tunes

This week, I am showcasing ....

David Garrett

When I am not obsessively listening to Coldplay my next choice of music, of late, is David Garrett – an amazing and talented violinist who hails from Aachen, Germany.

His music provides me a different choice for listening…not just only classical music and not only pop/rock music but a nice mix with his album titled: David Garrett.

This album contains songs that people are already familiar with such as: Smooth Criminal (Michael Jackson), Thunderstruck (AC/DC), He’s A Pirate (Pirates of the Caribbean theme), Who Wants to Live Forever? (Queen).

When I first heard of David Garrett earlier this summer I was blown away!
Not only do I like the classical songs he plays, I really like the pop/rock song versions.

His music is fun!

Take a listen to a few of my favorite David Garrett songs (you need to pause my playlist music which is located on my sidebar - right side - down towards the bottom).

While perusing Google for information on David Garrett I found some wonderful reviews! I would like to point you in their direction for concise posts.

Shooting Stars Mag – Read what Shoot Stars Mag says about David Garrett. I love how the songs are described. Also, this is were I first learned of David Garrett….Thanks!

Mama’s Money Savers – Here you will find a nice post informing us a bit more on David Garrett and his music. This is a good read.

Mom-Musings Blog Note:
This month on Mom-Musings, I am giving away two books!
You could win:
Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning - Ends Aug 20th...check this post for details.
AND/OR
Destined for an Early Grave by Jeaniene Frost - Ends Aug. 31...check this post for details.

Pirates! by Celia Rees

Pirates!
by Celia Rees
Copyright 2003

Challenge: Mom - Musings: Kids Choice Pick (my own challenge), 100+ Reading Challenge

GoodReads Description:
Nancy Kington, a wealthy merchant's daughter living in Bristol, England in the early 1700's, is sometimes lonely but enjoys the privileges her father's business brings. Minerva Sharpe is a penniless slave's daughter living and working on the Kington's Jamaican plantation. These two young women, united through a set of extraordinary circumstances including a brutal murder, an arranged marriage, and set of ruby earrings, find themselves sailing the high seas in search of love, adventure and freedom—as pirates!

First Sentence:
I was of a roving frame of mind, even as a child, and for years my fancy had been to set sail on one of my father’s ships.

Pirates pulled me into the story through the narration of Nancy whose beautiful, rhythmic flow of language hooked and captured me. For the narrator took her time with ease and smoothness to tell us her story - this is truly what kept me reading.

It draws a bitter laugh, even now, to think that I was ever so naive.

As we rode further into the wilderness, the distance between us seemed to narrow. Talk became easier, and there was even laughter as we followed a wide, shallow, fast-running river, riding sometimes in, sometimes out of the water, the cold spray arcing up and splashing our legs.

Nancy is fascinating. Her life is such where she does not have freedom to make decisions concerning her future until she took "an account" and became a pirate. The tale of how she came to be a pirate and the life she led is riveting. Those who surround her in the pirate world are interesting as she weaves their tale with hers.

Thinking of the cruel turns that my life had taken made me cry even harder, bitterness and anger dissolving the ink and threatening the paper.

Minerva, unlike Nancy, is a girl who is unafraid of the pirate action and life. For her, freedom is found. Minerva complements Nancy's personality. They balance each other out. If not for Minerva, Nancy would have faced far greater struggles as Minerva gave Nancy strength.

While I enjoyed Nancy' tale, at times I felt the pirate world was a bit too contrived, a bit too convenient, a bit too "G" rated. Yet, life portrayed on land was not “G” rated as there were some brutal situations and life struggles. The story of life as a female and as a slave was not sugar-coated.

The ending, while appropriate, left me thinking… “Nancy, what will become of you?” and many other thoughts that I will not write here as they would spoilers.

Overall, Pirates was a exciting story of action and adventure.

Pirates was a richly narrated story of a teenage girl taking control of her life.

Pirates was truly an enjoyable YA read.

Rating: 4/5 stars

Other Reviews:

Books and Movies lists Pirates as one of her favorite YA reads.
Mommy Brain

Other Stuff:

Celia Rees

Mom-Musings Blog Note:
This month on Mom-Musings, I am giving away two books!
You could win:
Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning - Ends Aug 20th...check this post for details.
AND/OR
Destined for an Early Grave by Jeaniene Frost - Ends Aug. 31...check this post for details.

Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling

Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone, book one
by J.K. Rowling
Copyright 1997

Challenge: Harry Potter Reading Challenge, 100+ Reading Challenge

Back Cover:
Harry Potter has never played a spot while flying on a broomstick. He’s never worn a cloak of invisibility, befriended a giant, or helped hatch a dragon. All Harry knows is a miserable life with the Dursleys, his horrible aunt and uncle, and their abominable son, Dudley. Harry’s room is a tiny closet at the foot of the stairs, and he hasn’t had a birthday party in eleven years.
But all that is about to change when a mysterious letter arrives by owl messenger: a letter with an invitation to a wonderful place he never dreamed existed. There he finds not only friends, aerial sports, and magic around every corner, but a great destiny that’s been waiting for him…if Harry can survive the encounter.

First Sentence:
Mr. and Mrs. Dursley, of number four, Privet Drive, were proud to say that they were perfectly normal, thank you very much.

Harry Potter is not unfamiliar territory as I have watched almost all the movies and read the last 3 or 4 of the books in the series. I attempted reading this book, The Sorcerer’s Stone, many moons ago and I did not complete the read. Why? I think several factors are involved, namely, I was incredibly busy with four very young children, homeschooling and most importantly-the story did not blow me away. Gasp! Let me say, I really enjoyed the movies and the last several books. More precise, I loved the last book!!

Why read The Sorcerer's Stone now?
Well, I figure, I am in a different space in life. I have really taken to the fantasy genre this past year. I want to read for myself along with the book "experiences" that I have gained to see if I view Harry Potter differently.
Will I like The Sorcerer’s Stone? Will I appreciate the series? And so forth.

The Sorcerer’s Stone, yep, I did like it.
Did it blow me away? Nope but it is a solid good read.

I appreciate the character of Harry.
He really is a good boy that makes pretty good decisions. If you stop to consider his upbringing, you will understand how much of a triumphant this feat is...his character is outstanding .

I very much enjoyed the writing style.
The author does a fantastic job weaving in every day language, expressions and nuances throughout the story. The kids - Harry, Ron and Hermione truly speak attainable language yet it is not dumbed down for the readers.

The adults in Harry's life are mostly on the peripheral but I did a feel a strong sense of conscientiousness,respect and nobility if you will in Dumbledore. His power is felt. Hagrid, I like this character. He has a heart of gold that is engrained in the sense of good.

The humor that is laced throughout the story is fantastic. I laughed numerous times especially at the subtle jests read throughout. The story is fast paced and certainly held my attention.

I will say, this read, for me, is a classic example where the movies have influenced my thinking. I could hear the characters and visualized them such as they look on screen.
With the movie images and sounds running throughout my mind a sense of something extra was added to the story. I am thinking it added an element of depth, for me.

Suffice it to say,The Sorcerer’s Stone was a solid good read.
The depth of the writing is fantastic. The story is very entertaining.

I look forward to reading this series in whole, to see how the characters grow… how the story grows.

Rating: 4/5 stars

Other Stuff:

J.K. Rowling Official Site – this site is interactive. You pass your cursor over various objects to link up with the different areas the site has to offer. A pretty neat site.

Mugglenet – all things Harry Potter: books, movies, discussion forums, misc. info and fun stuff

The Harry Potter Lexicon – this site is just what the word lexicon means…inventory, record of Harry Potter. All things about the books: facts, word count, guides, fun stuff. There is also an area to discover the “Wizard World”. Another area of interest may be the “Muggle Studies”. A very good site.

The Movie: The Sorcerer’s Stone

I felt this movie was very good. There are not too many movies that I like after reading the book version. Harry Potter is the exception. This movie, I feel, kept to most of the book details and most importantly…kept the overall feel. I really enjoyed The Sorcerer’s Stone.

Mom-Musings Blog Note:
This month on Mom-Musings, I am giving away two books!
You could win:
Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning - Ends Aug 20th...check this post for details.
AND/OR
Destined for an Early Grave by Jeaniene Frost - Ends Aug. 31...check this post for details.

Lament by Maggie Stiefvater

Lament
by Maggie Stiefvater
Copyright 2008

Challenge: 100+ Reading Challenge

Back Cover:
Sixteen-year-old Deirdre Monaghan is a painfully shy but prodigiously gifted musician. She's about to find out she's also a cloverhand—one who can see faeries. When a mysterious boy enters her ordinary suburban life, seemingly out of nowhere, Deirdre finds herself infatuated. Trouble is, the enigmatic and conflicted Luke turns out to be a gallowglass—a soulless faerie assassin – and Deirdre is meant to be his next mark. Deirdre has to decide if Luke's feelings towards her are real, or only a way to lure her deeper into the world of Faerie.

First Sentence:
"You'll be fine once you throw up," Mom said from the front seat.

The author's musical writing swept me away into a world of magical elements, fey, myths, legends, romance and music which was mysterious and full of danger. I was utterly absorbed into the story.

I felt myself "listening" to the wonderful "music" while I journeyed with Deirdre as she discovers her gifts and love beyond playing the Harp. Her journey of becoming aware of who she is and the belief that she is worthy beyond her gifts was breathtaking. The journey of Deirdre discovering her first love and treasuring a wonderful friend was utterly satisfying. I immediately liked Deirdre and could connect with her in many levels. The relationships Deidre chooses to have in her life are meaningful and full.
Deirdre is believable...she feels real.

Lament's beauty is not only in the character of Deirdre but also with the "magic" that is felt within the story as the author weaves a tale of friendship, love, honor, courage and sacrifice.
The magic between Deirdre and her best-friend, James is beautiful. James is amazing as his self-confidence exudes from him with warmth. His friendship with Deirdre is rock-solid, loyal and meaningful. To have a best-friend such as they have in one another is a gift. The magic between Deirdre and Luke is mesmerizing and breathtaking. Luke is mysterious, warm, sincere, alluring, protective. Deirdre is immediately drawn to Luke even when she probably should not be...he is dangerous. The beauty of a first love is powerful. The beauty of trusting someone because you know they are good even when doubt is placed before you is a gift.
Yes, there is "magic" and beauty in James and Luke. Both characters are admirable.

Lament is a beautiful tale that is mystical and entrancing which kept my eyes glued to the pages as I wondered and guessed what would come of Deirdre, Luke and James.

Lament, a breathtaking tale that pulled me into a magical world for which I am grateful.

Lament is the first story in a series. Yet, I believe it can be a stand-alone read. Even with that said, I look forward to my journey with the sequel... Ballad.

Rating: 4.75/5 stars

Other Reviews:
The Eclectic Book Lover
Fantastic Book Review
The Story Siren

Other Stuff:
Maggie Stiefvater’s blog
Gotta tell ya, I really like Maggie Stiefvater’s writing and her blog is not exception. Take a look.
Maggie Stiefvater’s website
Lament excerpt – take a read. It is in pdf format, 27 pages.
Music Written for and Inspired by Lament – take a look at this book page on M. Stiefvater’s website. Here you will find 3 songs that Maggie wrote. This is another cool thing about this author…she writes and arranges music for her stories!

Mom-Musings Blog Note:
This month on Mom-Musings, I am giving away two books!
You could win:
Destined for an Early Grave by Jeaniene Frost - Ends Aug. 31...check this post for details.
AND/OR
Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning - Ends Aug 20th...check this post for details.

What is on your Nightstand? September 2009

5 Minutes for Books asks once a month - What is on your nightstand?

I am posting about my goals for the month of September.

I did a darn good job reading through my August goals. I managed to accomplish most of my challenge books along with many on my piano stack.

September's reading will be mostly dedicated to my Challenge books.
However, I am very excited about the books to be released in September. I am so excited about these books that I may not read all of my challenge books. This is one reason why I decided to hold off on reading another Harry Potter book this month.

Once I make a decent dent in my challenge books and read a couple of the new releases then I will look toward: Reading Through the Piano Stack: Books - Library/Borrowed/Owned.

Which new release book am I most excited about? Hmmm…take a guess. Seriously, take a guess in the comments. In a week or so, I will give the answer! **smile**

Mom-Musings September Giveaway Read: Details to be posted soon

Cleopatra’s Daughter by Michelle Moran

Challenge Books: The challenges will be listed under the book titles

Vampire Diaries: The Awakening & The Struggles by L.J.Smith
L.J. Smith Reading Challenge
Mom - Musings: Kids Choice Pick (my own challenge)
Dragonfly in Amber by Diana Gabaldon (audiobook and book format)
Repeat Reading Challenge
Storm Front by Jim Butcher
1st in a Series Challenge
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Repeat Reading Challenge
Everything Austen Challenge
Two for the Dough by Janet Evanovich
Stephanie Plum Reading Challenge
The Stolen Princess by Anne Gracie
1st in a Series Challenge
Voyage of the Dawn Treader by C.S. Lewis (audiobook format)
Chronicles of Narnia Reading Challenge
Mr. Darcy, Vampyre by Amanda Grange
Everything Austen Challenge
Swan Maiden by Jules Watson
2009 TBR Challenge
The Opal Deception by Eoin Colfer
Mom - Musings: Kids Choice Pick (my own challenge)
Academy 7 by Anne Osterlund
Random Reading Challenge (book #2 out of 95 picked)
Pretties by Scott Westerfeld
Mom - Musings: Kids Choice Pick (my own challenge)

Reading Through the Piano Stack:
Books –Library/Borrowed/Own

Valley of Silence by Nora Roberts
Fire Study by Maria V Synder
Mr. & Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy: Two Shall Become One by Sharon Lathan
Dance Through Time by Lynn Kurland
Love at First Flight by Marie Force
If Tomorrow Never Comes by Marlo Schalesky

New Release Books
This section contains books with release dates of August, September and October.

Dreamfever by Karen Marie Moning – Release Date: August 18
Blood Promise by Richelle Mead – Release Date: August 26
Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins – Release Date: September 1
The Hollow by Jessica Verday - Release Date: September 1
Loving Mr. Darcy by Sharon Lathan - Release Date: September 1
An Echo in the Bone by Diana Gabaldon – Release Date: September 22
Dawnbreaker by Jocelynn Drake – Release Date: September 29
Fire by Kristin Cashore - Release Date: October 6

No…I will not read all the books on this September Nightstand. There are 26 books and I average about 15 books per month. Will be interesting. **smile**

Again, I ask, Which new release book am I most excited about?
Hmmm…take a guess. Seriously, take a guess in the comments. In a week or so, I will give the answer!

Happy Reading!

Mom-Musings Blog Note:
This month on Mom-Musings, I am giving away two books!
You could win:
Destined for an Early Grave by Jeaniene Frost - Ends Aug. 31...check this post for details.
AND/OR
Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning - Ends Aug 20th...check this post for details.

Books Read: July 2009

My Gosh! I cannot believe it …I did not post to my blog my Books Read: July 2009.
If I did post this then I must have deleted it. **shrug** huh? I cannot figure this out. Where is my mind? I ask.
Whether I posted or not…here it goes…

I did not meet all my goals that I set for July but I got very close, very close.

Favorite July Book:
I found that this month I read many good books that it was very difficult for me to choose my favorite book of the month.

The Chronicles of Narnia (the series) by C.S. Lewis

I chose The Chronicles of Narnia as my favorite book(s) of the month because this series - on the whole - has made the biggest impression upon my mind.

The adventure and action along with the great imaginative storytelling is utterly amazing. Not only are these stories entertaining, they contain depth in the characters and story plus the author himself is amazing.
The more I read of C.S. Lewis, the more I am impressed.

Please read my The Chronicles of Narnia: Books and Movies post to obtain a better feel of why I love this series.

Runner-Up: Favorite July Book
Because I had such a hard time choosing my favorite book, I decided to list the runner-up book.

Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier

I have not before read a book that pulled me into so many emotions…a sense of strangeness compounded by mystery and intrigue. I did feel a bit surreal.

Please read my Rebecca post to obtain a fuller understanding of what I mean by strangeness, surreal, mystery and intrigue.
I fully liked this story!

Books Read: 16

100+ Reading Challenge count: 102-117

* = a great read of the month - a 4 to 5 star book that stands out in my mind amongst all the others that I have read.

Kingdom of Shadows
* Bitten
* Faery Rebels: Spell Hunter
* Rivals for the Crown
The Vampire’s Bride
Jessica’s Guide to Dating on the Dark Side
Dragon Slippers
Aurelia
The Magician’s Nephew
The Horse and His Boy
* Poison Study
The Siege of Macindaw: Ranger’s Apprentice, bk 6
* Rebecca
One Deadly Sin
The Running Vixen
* Prince Caspian

Books Attempted But Did Not Complete: 1

The Demon’s Lexicon:
To be fair, in a way, I did complete this story yet I did not.
Huh??

I had high hopes for this story as I read many great reviews.
I will tell you, I have learned, demons as the focal point is not my type of fantasy/paranormal reading. It made me uncomfortable. I was curious though as to how the book would end so I skimmed through the book. The skimming worked for me as I did read about 1/3 of the book, skimmed the middle 1/3 and read a bit more than just skimming the last 1/3. Even with knowing the ending, I cannot say I liked this book. For me, there were too many troubling problems which were mostly related to the demon theme.
I know, I am in the minority here but it is what it is…I did not like this story.

Happy Reading!

Leughadh Sonasach! (Gaelic-Irish...looking for Scottish Gaelic but hard to find)

Mom-Musings Blog Note:
This month on Mom-Musings, I am giving away two books!
You could win:
Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning - Ends Aug 20th...check this post for details.
AND/OR
Destined for an Early Grave by Jeaniene Frost - Ends Aug. 31...check this post for details.