61: The Graveyard Book

This novel I began in October for the RIP Challenge.  Then, when the deadline passed, I continued reading this one during DEAR time.  Then other book deadlines (our high school book club and in-class reads) took precedence.  Until today...

This is my first read by Neil Gaiman (author of Coraline and many others), and I enjoyed it.  Quite the different perspective. Nobody (Bod) Owens lives in a graveyard because his parents and sibling were killed, and the "residents" of the graveyard are now his family, offering him love and protection from those who also want him dead.

As a reader, I had no problem entering this world of the dead...and living.  Gaiman created a world that might appear to be written for young adults or older adults.  Yes, based on this novel, I will read more by Gaiman.  See here for list of his books.

Enjoy!

#59-60: Debbie Macomber/Christmas

I checked two books out of our church library.  Yes, I checked them out...did not buy them!  Proud of myself!  In case you did not know, I am a book-buying addict, not even a recovering one.  Well, maybe a little.  I have cut back.  I am trying.

I digress before I even get started...

For some planned down-time, I deliberately checked out some Christmas reads:  two of Debbie Macomber's annual Christmas novels based in Leavenworth, WA...When Christmas Comes and Where Angels Go.

Both of these novels told multiple narratives that involved characters that intertwined.  Characters that are funny and endearing.  After several busy days getting ready for Christmas and then celebrating the event itself, these novels were just what I needed!

One of my favorite lines comes from Where Angels Go from character Harry who is dying from heart failure:  "...these newly minted doctors tended to be idealistic, which he approved of, and they were up on all the latest technology, treatments and medications.  The only problem was that they could be a bit unrealistic, seeing death as the enemy when sometimes, at the end of a long life for debilitating illness, it was a friend."  (page 12, hardback)  I lived these lines with my mother, for at the end, death was her friend.  How comforting those words were to me...

By the way, you are probably either a blogger, a blog reader, or both, so you might enjoy reading Debbie Macomber's blog here. Enjoy!

#58: The Pearl

Today, as I updated my 2012 list of reads, I realized that I had not reviewed The Pearl.

This novel I read along with my daughter, who was assigned this as a whole class read.  I downloaded a version to our Kindle, and we discussed as she was assigned portions of the novel.

Steinbeck creates a character Kino, a pearl diver, who upon finding a grand pearl, then proceeds to discover the forces of good and evil resides in us all when his son is stung by a scorpion and the pearl buyers refuse to give him the value of the pearl, resulting in not having the money for treatment for his son.

This pearl does become of one great price, as it will cost Kino more than he ever dreamed.

56-57: Alex Cross

Once Christmas came to a close, I finally had time to read.  As I left the in-laws, I borrowed two James Patterson books and then proceeded to read them within two days:  Kill Alex Cross and Merry Christmas, Alex Cross.

Quick reads, both novels spend the holidays with Alex as he takes on some killer cases.  Twisted!   So why do I read them?  Not for the gory details (sometimes, I skim over those scenes). I like attempting to figure out the end...before the end occurs.  I am not always successful with Patterson!

55: A Winter Dream

Our book club chose Richard Paul Evans'  A Winter Dream for our December read.  This novel is a modern re-telling of the story of Joseph in the Old Testament.

Evans' novels are just good reads. Books you can sit down with and relax, knowing you are going to come away a better person, probably having been convicted in some way to change, to do, to activate on your faith.

In this novel, Evans chooses to place his Joseph in the world of advertising, which was an interesting choice as a parallel world for the Joseph in the Bible.  Another interesting world the reader enters is the life of April, the first person Joseph meets after being "sold" to the company in Chicago.  I really did not see that one coming.  Isn't that a good thing when an author keeps you guessing?

Another reason I appreciate such authors as Richard Paul Evans is because I can recommend him to  young readers also, especially male readers.  I have one student now hooked on two of Evans' series:  the Michael Vey and The Walk.  Yes, this is definitely a tremendous advantage!

54: The Crucible

This play, I re-read as my English 11 classes studied, discussed, loved to hate Abigal, and slowly came to respect John Proctor.  Just cannot help it...that "It's my name" scene still resonates with me, so strong, so powerful.

Arthur Miller wrote The Crucible as an allegory of the McCarthy Era and the Red Scare.  For this reason, my students and I could more easily parallel these events with other more current events, sometimes events that were occurring right out in the hallways.

Good rationale why classics such as these should be assigned.  Some books would never be chosen, if not assigned...but I digress...

53: The Fault in Our Stars

John Green's The Fault in Our Stars is quite the powerful read.  Chosen as our November selection for our high school book club, this narrative relates the reality of a student in an advanced stage of cancer.

Just a different perspective.  Everyone should read this novel.  Remember, though as you read, this is fiction.  Really.  Fiction.  As in, not true.

One more note, be prepared to really not like the reality of this novel.  I know, I know.  It's fiction.  Just remember, though, be prepared to not like the reality of this novel.

It really is that good.

52: Macbeth

Should I count this one?  I have read it several times but not for several years.  This year, I read it with my seniors...

51: The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Interesting book.  I wonder if the movie will compare?

50: The Prayer of Jabez

49: The Magnificent Obsession

By Ann Graham Lotz, this...

48: Calico Joe

The setting...Arkansas!  Reading novels set in your home state just holds...

47: With Rigor for All

Carol Jago...a mentor to English teachers.

46: Matched

Ally Condle’s Matched intrigued me with her thoughts of another utopian society that begins to turn dystopic.

One possible theme for this novel remains that humanity at best simply is imperfect.  Cassia, the main character in the novel, has been matched with her ideal mate, her friend from her own living area.  Then, when she inserts her microcard, she sees a face, a face that is not Xander’s but Ky’s; thus, the breakdown in this perfect society begins as Cassia realizes that not all is perfect within her world.

Condle’s writing style draws the reader into this world that she has created by creating much dialogue, vivid descriptions, and her diction (word choice) assists in moving the plot along quickly.  For instance, one can hardly turn a page without a conversation occurring, which keeps the characters’ voices very alive.  The author also chooses to relate this story in first person point of view, thus allowing the readers into the head, the very active house of Cassia’s many thoughts and turmoil.

The setting for the novel, as stated above, is a utopic society some time in the future, a time in which the older members can still recall memories from the reader’s culture.  For instance, Ky has access to the language in the form of poetry, words that appeal very much to Cassia, words that also cause her to further question her society.   Another way, the setting affects Cassia is that it allows Ky and her to meet as they perform their outside activities, walking and climbing up and down a hill, an exercise at which both Ky an Cassia both excel.  Thus, this setting, this supposedly perfect world, does directly affect the characters.

This novel reminds me of The Hunger Games, a novel that is also initially bases on a perfect world that quickly is portrayed as a dystopia.  Katness, the main character in The Hunger Games, and Cassia both display similar characteristics, determination and a devotion to family.  Both novels are set in worlds that exist in the future, and, of course, in both novels, the girls have to choose between two boys.  Oh, the love triangle!

I would recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys dystopic novels.  Yes, if you enjoyed The Hunger Games, you will enjoy this novel also.  By the way, this is the first novel in a series, so the adventure continues in Crossed and soon-to-be released Reached, both of which continue the story of Cassia and her choice of men.

#45: The Roots of the Olive Tree

I received an advanced copy of author Courtney Miller Santo's first novel The Roots of the Olive Tree...read it...and enjoyed it...very much!

Go ahead...pre-order!  It's available August 21.

This novel relates the history of the five Keller women, the oldest of whom is 112, all are the firstborn, a line of daughters,  most of whom still live in the family home in California on an olive grove.

Told from various points of view, this novel introduces the reader to these ladies...Anna, Bets, Callie, Deb, and Erin... in bits and pieces, in such an interesting manner.  Their stories, of course, intertwine, always with just a hint of the unknown, the secrets that each have, that are revealed, page by page.

I learned much about olives and their history in our nation.  More importantly, though, Santo allows the olive trees to become a character within the novel.  The olive tree symbolizes the family,  the branches the ladies. The roots...yes, they represent the depth of this family...or, at least, that is my interpretation of that symbolism!

When asked to compare this author and novel to other works, I chose Kathryn Stockett, author of The Help; Kate Morton, author of The Forgotten Garden; and Katherine Howe, author The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane. This is a novel that remains with you.  It has depth.  Its characters remain stay alive after the last page is read.

Please consider reading this novel.  Enjoy!

#41-43: Nerves of Steel + 2

This read (and two more in the series), I downloaded to the Kindle.  Yes, I am enjoying reading via an e-reader more and more, especially what I call quick reads.

This series is about a doctor...and written by a doctor.  Must make for great active research!

CJ Lyons creates the world of Dr. Cassie Hart, an ER doctor, who becomes involved in the defense...and sometimes offense...of her patients.  Along the way, she allows her relationship with Detective Drake to develop.

The action is fast-paced, but not unbelievably so.  The characters seem/feel real.  The plot is interesting; I remained hooked through all three novels, reading them consecutively, quickly.

Lyons has authored several other series.  Yes, I would, as time allows, look forward to reading them also.

Enjoy!

40: Abraham Lincoln Vampire Hunter

Abraham Lincoln hunted vampires?  According to the first-hand writing of Seth Grahame-Smith,  Lincoln not only  hunted, but he also killed many vampires.  Very interesting.

The movie came out over the weekend, and the hubby wanted to go and see it, so I suggested he read the novel before going to see it on the big screen.  He did.  He really enjoyed it.  Interesting.  So, yes, I had to read the novel, also.  I really, really (yes, to be redundant!) enjoyed the hunt...ooopppsss,the book.

First, I appreciated the historical accuracy of this novel, as I took a journey back and actually learned many of the narrative details of Lincoln's life.  Now, I would truly enjoy reading a "real" biography of this President of the United States.

Quickly, Grahame-Smith introduces the reader to other main character...vampires  (yes, the group as a whole acts as a main character).  We learn how and why vampires directly impacted Lincoln and the life-changing decisions that result, how and why vampires came to America, and why they so desperately wanted to remain in America.

As I told my students today (I am teaching in a summer high school program...Upward Bound Math and Science), if I were not convinced that vampires are pure fantasy, I just might be convinced that I have been wrong all this time, for this rationale for their existence really, just almost, makes sense!

I have heard from two sources that the movie is not that good.  Then, the movie must not follow the novel.  The hubby and I have a date to see the movie in a couple of days...I will be back to update this post then!

I have read several novels in which vampires played a prevalent part, including the Twilight series, the Sookie Stackhouse series, and the House of Glass series, and... drum-roll please...I really like this one.  Would be safe to say this is my favorite vampire book.  Yes, it is that good!

By the way, Grahame-Smith also wrote the best-seller Pride and Prejudice and Zombies and the just-released Unholy Night (his story of the three wise men in the Bible).

Please read...enjoy!

#39: Voyager

I am now hooked on Diana Gabaldon's Outlander series, and I enjoyed this third of seven (so far) novel Voyager the most.

After sharing the news with daughter Brianna that her father lived 200 years ago, Claire decides to return to Jamie upon learning that he did not die at Culloden. Then begins several hundred...a total of 870 pages in all!...of one adventure after another, traveling from Edinburgh to Lollybrach to Jamaica, from life-threatening scene to another.

What I appreciate...besides the characters, the plot, the twists, the turns...is the history so embedded throughout the novel.  Again, as I noted in the previous book review, my knowledge lacks greatly in the area of history, especially in other countries (of course, now, Jamie, Claire, and Ian have landed in America).  Scotland, England, France, Jacobite, King Charles.  Again, this may have been part of the reason for my not being pulled into the first novel as much as I now am into the series...I had to have a few history lessons!

I really, yes, really wish I had begun this series several years ago, for in my attempt to read them all this year for the online challenge, I often feel a bit overwhelmed by the length of every book (you definitely receive your money's worth in this books!), knowing that I have several more to read...and that I have stacks of other books into which I also want to delve.  Plus, I want to have them read before next year's release of book eight Written in My Own Heart's Blood.  Oh, the pressure!  :)

Enjoy!

#38: The White Queen

Our high school faculty's third read in three months!  Cool!

Author Philippa Gregory, also well-known for her The Other Bolyn Girl, created The Cousin's War Series...after investigating this site, I realize now our group may have read book two!

As I read, I struggled.  Not because the novel is poorly written, for it is not, but because Gregory intensively researches...and my background in this time era lacks...greatly!  Thus, though, I learned so much. 

Told through the voice of Elizabeth Woodville of the house of Lancaster, the reader listens as she approaches King Edward, becomes his queen, births his children, and experiences the many ups and downs as the brothers and others fight for the crown, many of whom had the same name!  So confusing, at first!

For me, history has been too summarized, meaning that years of history has too often been condensed to one page in a history book.  Novels such as these enliven that history, reminding me of the humanness of the times, that these figures in history ate, slept, felt...just as I do.

I especially enjoyed Gregory's use of the gift of second sight and the power of the Melusina, the river goddess, that displays in Elizabeth's mother, then herself, and later in the novel through her own daughter Elizabeth.  I really was not expecting this. 

I look forward to reading the rest of this series.  What are you thoughts on historical fiction?

#37 Hide in Plain Site

Written by Marta Perry, Hide in Plain Site was another one I read on our Kindle (free here at Amazon!)...must say I do enjoy reading books on the Kindle, books, that is, that I do not have to annotate.  I can feel myself being drawn into this tech tool.

Marta Perry writes inspirational romance, often featuring the Amish.  This novel includes both.  I appreciated the reminder in this book that often God's will for our lives is not exactly what we had originally planned for ourselves.  Yes, He does have His way of placing us where He wants us!

Andrea returns home, from a climbing career, when her sister is injured and then struggles with her decision to remain and assist her grandmother in transforming the family home into a bed and breakfast  in hope of recovering from their dismal family financial strain.  Then...things begin to go bump in the night...

After venturing onto Perry's website, I now realize that this novel is the first in a trilogy...I do love a good series!

This is somewhat off the topic, but have you ever noticed how book covers select you?  They do me!  "Pick me, Tammy!"  If you have a moment, please go here and view Marta Perry's books' covers...love these!  In addition, if you enjoy cooking Pennsylvania Dutch style, here the author has posted several recipes.

Enjoy!

#36: Dragonfly in Amber

What a long (nearly 750 pages), intense (did I mention intense...very few pages) novel!  Diana Gabaldon gives her readers ample content for every penny spent on her novels.

Dragonfly in Amber, the second in Gabaldon's Outlander series, a series that contains eight novels (so far), continues the many adventures of Jamie and Claire Frasier via a flashback as Claire relates to her daughter who her father really is...a man who lived two hundred years ago. I became so caught up in the narrative that I forgot, until brought back to the future, that the whole novel was actually a memory.

I have struggled with this series...until about midway through this second novel, but now I am hooked!  I have already pulled the third one off the shelf, ready to continue the journey with Claire.

Claire almost seems to have a split personality:  the person she was two hundred years ago and the person she really is...or is not.  The passage through the stone changes not just time but also the character of Claire, as well.  Personally, I prefer the older Claire...or is it the younger Claire...the Claire from two hundred years ago.  She is truly alive and in love.

I have not read nearly enough historical fiction in a very long time and am greatly enjoying it and am learning much.  This may, in part, be why I struggled with the content, for I did not bring enough background knowledge concerning the history of English, France, and Scotland from several hundred years ago when I began this novel.  I actually slowed down as I read this second one and studied...yes, studied the historical context.

Summer is just the perfect time to delve into a book in which time allows the immersion into such an intense world.  Yes, now would be a great time to check out this series!

#34: Write Like This

Kelly Gallagher's Write Like This should be a must-read for all English teachers.  Full of ideas, activities, and samples, one quickly becomes overwhelmed with the avalanche of tips.  Having read his book Deeper Reading, I prepared a foldable to garner the suggestions that I thought I might later include in my thematic units that I will be teaching this fall.

Gallagher organizes this book into six real-world writing purposes:

• Express and Reflect
• Inform and Explain
• Evaluate and Explain
• Inquire and Explore
• Analyze and Interpret
• Take a Stand/Propose a Solution

For each of these chapters, he then provides so many ideas.  In every chapter, I noted several that I hope to include within my classes...soon!

I especially enjoyed his last chapter entitled "The Wizard of Oz Would Have Been a Lousy Writing Teacher."  I am hosting a brunch in August for my department, and this is the chapter, Gallagher's list of core beliefs, I hope we discuss.  Very interesting.  A list I support.  A list that I may consider emulating this summer.

You may preview this book online here.

If you are an English teacher, I would encourage your department choosing any of Gallagher's works as a close read.  You will so enriched by his many years of experience he so willing shares with his readers.

#33: The Gospel of Ruth

Earlier in the year, I began a study of the book of Ruth in hopes of helping coordinate a ladies' retreat for our church ladies, but due to lack of interest at this time, the retreat was delayed, but not my study of this book of the Bible.  I had read this book before but never had I intentionally chosen to intensely study a book of the Bible, so I ordered a few books.  After skim/scanning them, I chose The Gospel of Ruth:  Loving God Enough to Break the Rules. Oh, what a blessing this study has been thus far!

When the Biblical narrator would skip over details or time, author Carolyn Custis James would slow us/me down and analyze and provide scholarly research on the meaning(s) within and between the lines.  While I have always admired and respected both Naomi and especially Ruth, I never truly knew the story.

Their journey fully demonstrated the term hesed:  the living out of the gospel, "something you do."  James takes the actions of each woman and further explains that Naomi, the female version of Job, mourns more than just the loss of family and home; she mourns the loss of hesed, rejoices as she sees Boaz as a living example of hesed, and watches carefully as Ruth makes choices that prove her knowledge of hesed.

This concept I am sharing with my discipleship training class as we continue our study of Andy Stanley's Discovering God's Will, for it seems to me that if we are in God's will, we too will exude hesed.

While I, too, had read this book of the Bible as the typical Cinderella story, through James' book, a whole new meaning takes shape.  Ruth's goal is self-less; her goal is to salvage the name of Elimelech, to honor her promise to Naomi:  "Where you go, I will go, and where you stay, I will stay.  Your people will be my people and your God my God.  Where you die, I will die, and there I will be buried." (1:16-17)  Now, that is a promise.

I do have one concern about James' thoughts about the Ruth's baby and Naomi's role in his life.  That thought, though, needs to be discussed after you have read this book.

The book is full of nuggets, simply a mine of value.  I so encourage your reading this book.  Blessings!

#32 Glamorous Illussions

This book is a free download for Kindle readers!  Cool! I am attempting to save a bit of money and utilize my daughter's Kindle as I see if I can break my addiction to the real thing...I really like books and am an annotator, but I am deliberately choosing books that are just "fun" reads, and that is what I needed today after a very busy week.

Two other things you should know about Glamorous Illusions:

1. This is the first in a new series by author Lisa Bergren.
2. Glamorous Illusions is a work of historical Christian fiction

This novel contains it all...loss, growth, adventure, romance, intrigue.  Embedded throughout are the author's religious convictions, which I happen to support!  Main character Cora Deihl Kensington learns that she is the illegitimate daughter of a copper king, and her life take a 180-change.  In an effort to familiarize herself with her siblings, she goes on a tour of Europe, the Grand Tour, and reaffirms who she must remain, one true to herself and God.

Lisa Bergren also has an interesting website, containing much info and book promos.  I enjoyed roaming around her site.

Good read!

#28-31: Sookie Stackhouse Series

Since school got out, I have immersed myself in continuing to read Charlaine Harris' Sookie Stackhouse series...the ones on which the HBO series True Blood is based (none of which I have watched).  So far I have read...

• #3:  Club Dead
• #4:  Dead to the World
• #5:  Dead as a Doornail
• #6:  Definitely Dead

Sookie is just so normal...well, if you disregard that she is a telepath and seems to continually encounter one major conflict after another.  I just like her character:  she is honest, caring, and shops at Wal-Mart!

Throughout these novels, Sookie, a barmaid by trade in Louisiana, continues to learn about the "others":  vampires, weres, shapeshifters, fairies, and witches.  She continues to love with a love (okay...maybe some lust involved also):  Bill, Eric, Quinn...Sam?  She continues to kick butt, righting wrongs and living to tell about it, as she remains loyal to family and the few friends she has due to her special powers of reading minds, which is one reason she enjoys hanging out with the others for their minds are more difficult for her to read. Some, even, impossible, for vampires are dead, and that includes their brains.

Recently released, the next installment...number 11...means that I have a few books to read to be current on this series...looking forward to seeing where Arkansas author Charlaine Harris takes her characters.  Just might say that I hope Bill's character takes a more positive turn!

Should you enjoy series, Harris writes other series:  Lily Bard...set in Shakespeare, Arkansas (the English teacher within me appreciates this!) and the Aurora Teagarden (have not read any of these...yet).

Enjoy the fantasy world of vampires and such?  I have read several, and this is my favorite.  Enjoy!

#27: Serena

In his novel Serena, author Ron Rash takes the reader to the logging woods of North Carolina in 1929 with newlyweds George and Serena Pemberton.  Cold, callous, and calculating...just to name a few c words, this couple will do anything to guarantee their own financial success.

The novel could easily have been named George and Serena or George, Serena, and Others, for the novel closely follows several characters.  Seldom do I read a book, though, where I do not like the main character, but Serena exhibits few morals or ethics, while murder and mayhem abound.

I purchased this book some time ago because of a teacher-recommendation. Then I let it set...until she posted on Facebook that this novel is being made into a movie.  Have to read the book before I can even think about watching the movie!  Right?  Therefore, as I read, I found myself mentally picturing how I would portray scenes on the big screen.  Many will want to watch this movie because of the historical context, and some will watch because of the logging angle.  Many will watch, though, to see Serena...and her horse and her trained eagle that rides on her arm.  Did I mention that this eagle is trained to kill snakes?

As I read the book, I commented to my husband that he should read the book.  He's a former logger and appreciates history....and this novel just seems to be more of a "guy" book, well, if you remove some of what my female friends refer to as "fluff."  Or maybe I am just attempting to stereotype the novel since it was just not my favorite read.

Maybe I just read to too soon after school was out and on a holiday weekend as I was sitting by the pool when I was really wanting to read one of those "fluffy" books mentioned above?  Maybe?

Would I want to watch the movie?  Yes.  Just to see if it follows the book.

#26: Alice's Adventures in Wonderland

Earlier in the school year, a student asked, "Mrs. Gillmore, have you ever read Alice's Adventures in Wonderland?"

"No."

"You should.  It's not what you think it will be. It's really not a kid's book."

"For you, Nathan, I will read that book."

I did, and I agree:  this book is much more than a "kid's book."  An allegory?  A political response to the times?  I am sure support exists for both of these interpretations.

Lewis Carroll's story relates the journey that Alice takes upon falling down a rabbit hole, the characters she meets, and the changes...literally...that she must make.

This is also my first e-read on our Kindle.  I am attempting to read a few online this year...to save money and also to determine if I can overcome my addiction to the real thing:  books!  The verdict is still out on this decision!

Upon finishing this read, I related to Nathan that I had completed this fantasy, and we discussed how it can be read on a more sophisticated level.  Then, I commented that I could now watch the movie since I had read the book.  No, he was quick to inform me.  The new Johnny Depp movie is of Alice Through the Looking Glass.  Okay.  I now have it on the Kindle!

#25: The Road to Grace

Amazing.  Just what I needed after this very trying week.

Richard Paul Evans' new release The Road to Grace continues Alan Christofferson's walk across America, which he began after the death of his wife, the loss of his business and home.  During this nearly 1000 miles of his journey from South Dakota to St. Louis, Alan meets...and re-meets...some very interesting people and learns through them the importance of forgiveness...of both self and of others.

Richard Paul Evans' gift in truly enlivening his characters makes this a quick and memorable read.  You feel Alan.  You mourn with Alan.  You acknowledge with Alan.  I suspect the read will eventually forgive, accept.

This cover interests me, for the road seems to end...unless you turn around and come back.  Yes.  That happens in life, doesn't it?  Thank God for allowing us to backtrack!

Please consider giving some time to this series, for you will be blessed.  This is one of those series that I am already looking forward to re-reading.  Yes, it is that good.  Yes, I need that many blessings!

Now, to wait for the next installment to continue the walk...

#24: The Bean Trees

 

I stayed up until 1 AM to complete The Beans Trees....because it was simply that good!  This novel is our faculty book club's May-read.

This one took me a few chapters to become hooked.  Several teachers had commented how good this choice was, and, mentally, I was thinking, "Really?"  Then it happened; I could not put the book down.

Author Barbara Kingsolver tells the story of Taylor Greer, who, determined to not be statistic and be pregnant  before graduating high school, finds herself caring for a young child whose parent simply gave her to Greer as she is traveling across America in hopes of discovering who she is.

Along the way she learns an important lesson that resonated with me:

"For me, even bad luck brings good things...I threw out a rocker arm on my car and I got Turtle [the name she gives the baby].  I drove over broken glass on an off ramp and found Mattie...Do you know, I spent the first half of my life avoiding motherhood and tires, and now I'm counting them as blessings."

This book, I would love assign this as a whole-class read, especially to an all-female class (which we do not have in our school).  Such rich discussion could develop from the pages of this novel.  Her exquisite use of syntax, diction...loved the metaphor of the railroad track to a workings of the heart:  "creaky, chest cavity," "the artery of Tucson, you would have to say it is was a hardened one." (chapter five, page 72)

I very much look forward to our discussion on Monday in book club and hearing what nuggets the others gleaned from within these pages, what life lessons they learned or of which they were reminded.

This one receives five stars.  Yes, it is that good.  Enjoy!

23: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

For the online challenge of re-read the Harry Potter series, I just completed book four...quite the novel, all 734 pages of it!  I do appreciate when an author gives you your money's worth...AND so much better than the movie!

In this novel, we, the readers, learn about and attend the International Quidditch Cup and the Triwizard Tournament.  I remain ever amazed at J.K. Rowling's ability to continue to create such a world.  I did enjoy attending both!

I have enjoyed the re-read of all the novels in this series, thus far, but I must say this one is my favorite.  Why?

•  I enjoy watching Harry, Ron, and Hermione continue to mature.  Even though the three of them often do not agree, Ron is still what Harry would miss the most.
• I like the parts the other characters played:  Sirius and One-Eyed Moody. These two in particular seem to be guardian angels of sorts (I even like Moody's support...despite his...well, you know...)
• I appreciate the role Mrs. Weasley plays in Harry's life.  I loved it when she showed up to support him in the last phase of the Triwizard Tournament.  Having experienced the loss of my mom this year, I especially know how Harry felt when he realized that she would be there for him.  I, too, have been blessed with several Mrs. Weasley's in my life...a blessing, indeed!

This re-read reminds me the importance and power of multiple reads.  I had forgotten so many of the details.  Thus, as I read, I know the end...I just am re-learning the paths they choose to take to get there.  This lesson I take back into the classroom with me, for we are striving towards this same goal:  multiple reads, delving deeper into text's meaning.

It's not too late to join this challenge!  Enjoy!

April's Five Reads

18:  The Call of the Wild by Jack London

My second read of this novel; this time with my English 11, and again, I was pleased as my students complimented the story:  "It was actually a good book."  Yes!  Boys and girls alike made such comments.

The story of the dog Buck, we used this novel as the basis for answering the question "To what extent would you go to guarantee your survival?", for Buck certainly endured much as he was forced to journey the Klondike.  Through it all, through deceit, perseverance, manipulation, strength, he discovers what he will go through to not only guarantee his survival but to also find his true self.  That journey, for all of us, often leads through much.

19:  Guilty Wives by James Patterson

Interesting.  James Patterson tells the story of Abbie Elliot, a woman stronger than even she knew she was, and her three best friends as they are accused killing a very important dignitary, their subsequent imprisonment in a foreign country, and their fight for their lives and their innocence.

As I read, I could not help but think of women falsely accused and imprisoned and the total helplessness they must daily endure.  Maybe this was so heavy on my heard for having just read The Call of the Wild with the above essential question leading our discussions and the assigning of an essay that would help further answer that question.  My topic:  human trafficking.  Similar in many ways to what the characters in this novel endure.

This may be one of Patterson's better novels.  Again, maybe it was because of the connections I was making as I read, but this one I appreciated (started to type "enjoy"...really cannot say I enjoyed much of what Abbie went through).  I did appreciate, though, the tenacity, the strength of this female character.

20:  The Quilting Circle

This book I purchased at our Dollar Tree and read for a quick, relaxing read, enjoying every line of it!  The book includes four novellas all based on the same quilt that changes hands, travels to four ladies over time...written by four authors Jennifer Blake, Jo Anne Cassity, Linda Shertzer, and Christina Cordaire.

I love quilts, have collected several over the years:  family quilts made by both of my grandmothers and one by mother.  Very proud of these heirlooms. Hope to one day create such a piece of art.

I suppose what I liked the most (other than it being a easy read with action that kept my attention, for after a week at school, I simply enjoy such a break as this) was that an heirloom was that...something appreciated that had an impact on lives.

21.  1776 by David McCullough

Our sorta-new book club at school chose this book for our first group read.  I cannot say I would never have read this one without the motivation, for I had a copy of it in our home bookshelves (had bought it for the husband), but it was definitely way down the to-be-read stack.

Very glad we read this one.  Very.  I learned so much about that year in our history and those who had such a dramatic impact on that year's events...those on both sides of the ocean.

George Washington remains a favorite of mine.  (I read Washington's Lady last summer...still one of my favorite reads.)  While he was not always successful during this initial year of the war, he learned much from some very serious mistakes and trusted others enough to encourage and promote them.

I want to read more about him. I would really love to continue this studied emphasis of our Presidents, for my background in American history is just too weak.

Yes, I encourage you to read this one...proud to say that a dozen or more teachers read this book, all because once upon a time, I began a book club.

22:  Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling

I like Harry and his friends.  Just can't help it!  They have such a heart for others.

I am re-reading this series for an online challenge and am enjoying it very much.  I had forgotten so much. I am especially appreciating the embedding of details.  J.K.Rowing surely had the big picture created for this series before beginning to write it.

I also appreciate the author's writing.  The longer I teach writing and the more I read, the more I pay attention to writer's craft.  For sure, with each novel of hers, I have more to enjoy, for the length of each increases!  (Currently reading book four...over 700 pages!)

17: Made to Crave

I purchased Lysa TerKeurst's Made to Crave in January 2011 in hopes of finally beginning a diet plan that would this time really work.  Well...in December (yes, eleven months later) I came across her website and remembered the book and determined then to finally read the book, solo. I would loose the weight in secret.  Just myself.

Until....I read the chapter three, page 39:  "...think and pray for some friends to join you on this journey.  I have to tell you, having friends to walk through the same healthy eating plan as me has been such a help.  Getting a plan is the first crucial step; getting a friend or two to join you is the next."

I resisted.  I was doing enough at church.  Life was busy.  My plate was full.

Then, I followed the Lord's leading and shared at church that I was reading this book, and if anyone was interested, I would be glad to meet on Wednesdays.  The group grew...to eight!  And what a blessing it has been...getting to know other ladies, other "Jesus girls" (as Lysa refers to us), ladies I have known for years...or thought I had.  Jesus Girls, ones who are attempting to loose weight together, the spiritual growth of these relationships has been invaluable.

Have we lost weight?  Yes.  As much as we wanted?  No.  But we are learning and growing and sticking with it.

Now...back to the book!  I really appreciate Lysa' writing style, her voice.  Because we are also using her video series within our study (yes, inspired by the synergy within the group, I then purchased Made to Crave Action Plan for us), I could almost hear her voice as I read.  She is such a sincere, down-to-earth, Christian lady.  An inspiration.

As I completed the book this evening, I became re-inspired, touched by several of the Biblical scriptures, and gained new insight to my battle with weight.  As Lysa says, "Having a weight issue is not God's curse on us.  It is an external manifestation of an internal struggle."  Honestly, I struggled (so to speak!) with that expression.  Then, the revelation came! As I reflected upon reading the chapter entitled "Emotional Emptiness," I could pinpoint when I began gaining weight and the reason for the weight gain, and I am now praying that I can begin "parking my mind in a better spot."  Time to let that go, begin to heal, and move to a healthier parking spot.

This is a book that I plan to begin a re-read of...soon.  The book is packed full of spiritual nuggets that I need...again and again.

Involved in a struggle with your weight and want a plan that does not involve a diet plan?  Then, please consider this book as one of your resources...below is the book trailer.

#16: Deeper Reading

Our English Department read (throughout March) and then discussed Kelly Gallagher's Deeper Reading at our meeting this past week.

Awesome!  Wonderful!  Empowering!  Yes!

Now, if I can just implement but a few of his ideas, then the entire read (and money spent!) will be very much worth all the time and effort.

I blogged at Treasure Chest of Thoughts on my favorite quote:  "Learning begins when we encounter confusion." I had never quite looked at learning from this standpoint, but it makes so much sense.  Many classrooms are full of bored students due to our (the teachers) not creating scenes of confusion.  Truly.  With a bit of confusion, comes the spark for learning.

As I look over my book, I at almost at loss as to what to say, for I have never annotated, sticky-noted a book quite so much.  This one is truly full of nuggets.

I suppose what I appreciate the most is that Gallagher is a teacher, still in the classroom, just like so many of us.  For this, his voice resonates more, as was illustrated at this week's meeting, as one comment quickly followed another.

Our next departmental read is Gallagher's latest release:  Write Like This.  More about this one soon!

#15: The Hunger Games

Even better the second time around!

I attempted to re-read The Hunger Games before going to watch the midnight release of the movie.  Made it half-way through...then finished it the next day.  Not sure if reading the book made the movie even better or if watching the movie made the book even better.  Either way...or both ways...I really enjoyed both encounters with Suzanne Collins' novel.

I like the main character Katniss; she just seems so human.  She cares for humanity more than she does the leaders and rules and creeds of the time (this wording reminds me so much of the current topic we are studying on Sunday evenings of Jesus and the Pharisees and the Sadducees).  Interesting.

Also interesting is a review of the movie I read, in which the author suggests the novel is a work of satire...I can see that.  Going to ponder on that...would be a great way to re-introduce my juniors to that term.

Please consider seeing the movie...after you read the novel!  Enjoy!

#14: The Red Tent

 

By Anita Diamant, The Red Tent relates the embellished story of the Biblical Dinah, the daughter of Jacob and Leah.

First, I enjoyed the story and all the research that went into the narrative that became Dinah's life.  Told in first-person, this novel gave the unique perspective of the only female daughter born into a family of twelve sons and four  wives.  Interesting, indeed!

Second, I cannot say that I appreciated all the characteristics awarded Jacob and his wives, as these details are not supported by the Bible.  I had to remind myself from time to time that this is a work of historical fiction. But again...this is historical fiction.

From both the Bible and this novel, I appreciate several lessons of which I was reminded...

• That Dinah was loved much by Shechem, despite a very distressing situation...isn't that when we need love the most?
• Her brothers did pay for what their part in deceiving Shechem's family...yes, we do reap what we sow.
• The bond between women is strong...only to the point of when one's true love is deceived, destroyed.  Loyalty to one's soul mate runs the deepest...I am thankful to have that with my husband.  Blessed, I am.

I purchased this novel recently after perusing the comments in top book list I came across on Facebook that was posted by my friend Dawn (such a lovely lady that I am enjoying getting to know better from my church):  Ten Books Every Girl Should Read.  I noticed this title repeated so often in the comments (the novel did not make the creator's top ten) that I decided that this girl should read The Red Tent...also purchased The Postmistress from this list...it waits patiently on me!

Yes, read this book!  Just read knowing that it is a work of fiction, for this novel stays with you, encouraging reflection, which is so healthy for any girl.

Enjoy!

11-13: More Frankenstein

Since we began Spring Break last Friday afternoon, I have read three novels...in an attempt to finish Dean Koontz's Frankenstein series...so that I can move on to more reads.  (I know I could pause and return, but there's something to be experienced by immersing one's self into a series!)

Of the four remaining in the series (I thought I had purchased every book in this series but found I did not have book four...so I skipped that one.  I discovered that did not hamper my understanding of the plot as details are repeated from book to book.)....

1. City of Night
2. Dead and Alive
3. The Dead Town

With each novel, Koontz's characters became more gross and deadly...just a bit much for my taste...but those who enjoy this type of read, I am sure they would appreciate the horror.

I suppose I am more of a Romantic that I had even previously considered myself to be, for I did enjoy witnessing the budding romances between several of the characters, especially in book five The Dead Town.

As noted previously, I began this series for a book challenged the Classic Double hosted by One Librarian's Book Review.  It's not too late to join!  I am very excited to report that I was the chosen monthly drawing and was like a kid at Christmas when I received my prize...not one, but two books and several bookmarkers!  Thank you!

I chose to attempt the "large" = three doubles.  I just purchased a novel entitled Juliet...I have not read nor taught Romeo and Juliet in several years, so I shall begin there for my next double classic reads.

 

Enjoy!

#9-10: Birthmarked and Prized

While shopping at the high school book fair last fall, I kept returning to Birthmarked by Caragh M. O'Brien...and purchased it.  Then, the novel sat and patiently waiting on me to finish reading other books.  After promo-ing it to my husband, he began reading it...then my daughter.  Why, oh, why did I wait so long to begin this trilogy?!  So good!

The first two Birthmarked and Prized...the third novel will be released later this year...tell the story of Gaia (a very strong heroine, a midwife), Leon, and others who live in a futurist world where Gaia takes continual stands for and against family, friends, and political situations of the time.

A message about bullying, the novel takes the reader into Gaia's struggles, as she learns that her facial disfigurement not only highlights her obvious difference physically  but also defines her mentally and emotionally.  In a world where the great are greater and the poor are poorer, Gaia's destiny seems to one of redeemer, leader as she leaves her world of advancing babies from Western Sector Three for the sake of the Enclave and travels through the Wasteland and Sylum (land of the dead).

Romance?  Yes.  In book two this intensifies, encouraging the reader to help her choose the man/boy right for her.  I chose the right one!  No spoilers here...you will have to read and take this journey with Gaia in Promised scheduled to be released October 2.

I enjoy series...especially ones in which I have waited and can read more than one novel at a time.  Love the immersion to these created worlds.

Enjoy!

#7-8: Frankenstein X 2

For the Classic Double Book Challenge...and because my students were reading Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, I also read Dean Koontz's first book in his Frankenstein series The Prodigal Son.

I read Frankenstein several years ago and enjoyed it very much.  Thus, last year, when I wrote and received a grant to purchase each of my students four novels throughout the year, I choose Frankenstein as one of the literary selections. 

Shelley's writing style appealed to me:  much plot in a relatively short span of pages.  As one of my male students told me a few days ago, "I really like how she used words."  Wow!  I compliment indeed!

As in the Twilight series and other such novels, I found myself liking one character more than the other.  That's right...I became a monster sort-of fan, as Frankenstein's motives, while as selfish as the monster, were just not as justified.  As I discussed the novel, I found myself singing Toby Keith's song, "I want to talk about me and me and me and me and me...!"

Then, I read The Prodigal Son.  Interesting, the connections to Shelley's Frankenstein.  Very.  Frankenstein and the monster are both characters within this series, as well. Yes, the monster, now  named Deucalion (after Prometheus' son) is still my favorite!  No spoilers here...please read this series if you enjoyed Frankenstein, though! (Excerpt here.)

I look forward to reading more of the doubles, as I enjoy making the connections to the classic and further understanding the original characters through the modern-day author's perspective.  Thanks, One Librarian's Book Reviews, for hosting this book challenge!

Now, to read book two in the above Frankenstein series City of Night...have to learn what happens to Frankenstein and the monster  and Detective Carson O'Connor and her partner Michael Maddison (yes, a bit of romance is sparking between these two!).

#6: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

Again, another journey to Hogwarts with my friends Harry, Ron, and Hermoine.  Those kids are beginning to grow up!  This time I journeyed with Harry as he goes into the Chamber of Secrets and meets Tom Riddle.  OF course, the romance between Harry and Ginny begins to spark a bit also!

J.K. Rowling certainly created a wondrous world, one that I am enjoying even more on my second read of this series as part of the Harry Potter Re-Read Challenge here.

I continue to marvel at the power of the imagination and wonder if I would enjoy such an imagination, for I would think that that such a world as Rowling created must have dominated much of her think time, her sleep time, and obviously her writing time.

As I write this, we are watching the movie, and I keep saying that did or did not happen in the novel.  So good!  Please enjoy this series with me!

#5: The Outlander

This read of The Outlander in my second read of this novel.  I began The Outlander Series a few years ago and am re-reading for the Outlander Book Challenge.

In this first novel in the series, the reader meets Claire and Jamie (and various other characters), when Claire travels two hundred years back in time and meets (and marries) Jamie.  Historically set during 1743 in Scotland, the novel takes the reader on an informative journey (yes, I learned a lot about this time period).

These novels are long (or in  Gabaldon's word..."fat").  The Outlander is 626 pages; thus, due to my own real life and other constraints, this one took me a while to read.  Plus, the action is intense.  Claire and Jamie hardly escape one conflict, until, literally, on the next page another extreme adventure begins.  Intense!

Another reason to read (or re-read) this series is the scheduled release of book eight for next year.  Please consider reading author Diana Gabaldon's thoughts on the release of Written in My Own Heart's Blood.  I agree with her...her books are worth the money!

All my "big" girl friends (this is not a young adult series!) love, love, love this series (with the exception of one).  If you like romance, historical fiction, time travel...did I mention romance...then you will enjoy this series.

Fortunately, for me, I have the next six novels in this series waiting on me...:)

#4: 10th Anniversary

Love James Patterson's Women's Murder Club...purchased the tenth novel entitled 10th Anniversary in this series Friday afternoon and had completed this read by mid-Saturday morning.

I enjoyed spending time with the four ladies who are the heroines of these adventures, as they once again came to the rescue and ensured that the guilty were brought to justice.  Patterson's books are good for when you need a quick read, an escape for a few hours.

If you, too, enjoy this series, 11th Hour goes on sale in May!

#3: The Fallen 1

This novel I bought some time ago to give away at a book club.  When little interest developed, I became the permanent owner of this young adult novel.  Or is it a young adult novel?

Thomas E. Sniegoski introduces the reader to a world of fallen angels...some good, some bad...all seeking a world that each cannot quite obtain.

The so-close biblical references bothered me some.  As a matter of fact, this novel took me a very long time to read.  I could only read a few pages at a time, and then I was ready to put it down.   I have never had quite such an experience with a a novel.  Not sure if that was a good thing or not.  Not sure if my religious side was concerned or bothered...or simply intrigued.  Need to ponder on this some more.

The novel introduces us to Aaron who is learning that he was born to be an angel...literally.  Aaron struggles with this much-unwanted angelic being he seems destined to become, a role through which he will save the world.

This novel is the first of four in the series.  Will I continue to read the series?  Maybe.

Interested in the movie version of this novel?  Check here.

2: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

Enjoyed this one more than I did the first time I read the Harry Potter series.  I had forgotten so many of the details...or maybe I did not even notice all of them during my first reading of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone.  And I noticed several hints of future stories to be read!

Harry and his friends, they are all just so young!  Mere babes!  I do appreciate the diversity of their characters:  Harry, the homeless; Ron, the red-head, and Hermione, the brain. All, individuals...yet all a team.

I am re-reading this series for the Harry Potter Re-Read Book Challenge, something I have wanted to do for some time.

Now, to re-watch the movie...such a good day for this.  No school today (MLK).  Plenty of time to watch as I prepare my husband's 50th birthday day dinner...:)

UPDATE!  Tuesday, January 17

Last night, we re-watched Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone.  That was such an interesting experience...to have just completed the novel and then watch the movie.   I noted some deletions but was impressed with the amount of detail and scenes included within the movie.

Again, Harry, Ron, Hermione...just babies!  So cute...and brave!

1: Eat, Pray, Love

So good!  My first read of 2012 was Elizabeth Gilbert's nonfiction reflection in Eat, Pray, Love on her journey to develop a more meaningful relationship with God.  Again, this is one of those books that I has sat on my bookshelf waiting on me...and waiting, for I had read the book before I can watch the movie, right?

Why did I wait so long?  God.  He knew this book would speak to me, right now, at this particular time in my life when I, too, am working on my relationship with God in a more intense manner than ever before in my life.

I absolutely love Gilbert's voice, her writing style.  She took me there, to Italy, India, and then Indonesia, teaching me so much about all three countries and so much else, about relationships, culture, religions, and, ultimately, about myself.

The human-factor is probably what I appreciated the most, though, about this book.  Elizabeth Gilbert is a woman, who is quick to point out, what to her, are flaws and one who is just as quick to rejoice in her achievements, whether they are personal, emotional, or spiritual.

Five Stars.  That's what this book receives from me.  Please read this one, for there is absolutely no way the movie can even come close to all the content contained within this great read.  Just to confirm that theory, though, I can now watch the movie!  Yay, me!

Reading...Yes, I Am!

I have begun the year reading...several books at one time!  Here's an update:

1. Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert:  Again, I have had this book for some time and will not watch the movie by the same name...have to read the book first!  Right?  WHY DID I WAIT SO LONG?  Love, love this book!  Much more to say about this novel in the upcoming review!
2. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone:  I am re-reading this novel for a Harry Potter Re-Read book challenge (one book a month) and because I really like this series, and it is just time to re-read this adventure with Harry.  He is just so young in this novel!  That boy grew up through that series!
3. Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Charles Lutwidge Dodgson:  This will be my first read on an e-reader (also for a challenge, of course!) on my daughter's Ipad.  Maybe this format will grow on me!  I also chose this one because a student asked me to read this novel, for he was impressed by the meanings within the layers of the book.  Good enough reason for me!
4. Deeper Reading by Kelly Gallagher:  A professional read, from this book, I have already gleaned several nuggets for use in the classroom. 
5. Bible in a Year:  So far, so good!  I am actually ahead of schedule in my reading of the Bible in chronological order.

For some reason, I feel like I am behind on my reading, for it's already January 9, and I have not completed one book yet!

Next read...need to re-read The Outlander to begin a re-read challenge for this series.

What are you reading good?

2012 Book Challenges

I have signed up for several book challenges for 2012...please view my post at Treasure Chest of Thoughts for a preview of my upcoming reads.

Happy reading in 2012!