Factoids #1 (those bits of knowledge that would be great on a game show)

I love learning. I think I enjoy collecting and dissemenating random bits of trivia as well as practical knowledge. I guess teaching is pretty good profession for me. I am constantly learning things. I have decided to share some of my random collection knowledge with the world. So below are things I learned this week.

• Ostriches are flightless birds. I read about them for a 4th grade class assignment. I learned they can run over 40 mph. They can be 9 ft tall. Their eggs weigh at least 3lbs and would take over one hour to boil it. They are bred in over 50 countries. Their plumage was most popular in the past. Now their hide and meat are more popular. For more information try these two sites  American Ostrich Association and San Diego Zoo.
• I studied The Plantagenet Family Tree as I was reading the White Queen. The Mysterious Princes in the castle were Richard and Edward. They were in the house of York. They were sons of Edward the IV. They were brothers to Elizabeth of York. She married Henry VII, the first King from the house of Tudor. Which means the missing boys were Henry VIII's uncles. I found that bit of trivia very interesting. Here I was just one generation back from the Tudor reign and in a whole new world of court intrigue.  British Family Trees

What new facts have you learned this last week?

The Mermaid Chair

I listened to the audio book, The Mermaid Chair by Sue Monk Kidd. I have heard such great things about this author, that I imagined I would love The Mermaid Chair. However, I was dissapointed. I quite honestly only finished it because I had no other audio books left.

The book began promising. Jessie returned to her childhood home of Egret Island. Her mother had chopped off her finger. The island's two primary methods of livelyhood are the tourists and the fishermen. The tourists come for the Gullah graveyard, the aviary sanctuaries, and the Monestary of St. Sonora. Then the book seemed to drag itself along. Between beautiful descriptions of scenery, the plot lacked a beauty to echo the serenity of the island. In the early stages, I had hope of improvement, but by the halfway point, I was tired of listening to Jessie and her problems. The book's climax was also dissapointing.

What I did like was how Sue Monk Kidd crafted the scene with her pin. I could see the mermaid chair, hear the bird's calls, and smell the ocean's fragrence. I think at one point, that is what kept me listening.

2 out 5 stars.

Scott Westerfeld's Leviathan

I was browsing through the teen new book section at my library and there sat Leviathan. I had been wanting to read a steam punk genre book and I had read a great review last week, so I added the book to my stack. Quite honestly I remember reading either Pretties or Uglies by Scott Westerfeld and not really enjoying it, though I did need to know the ending, I was not drawn into the world enough to pursue any of the other novels in the series. Nonetheless, the cover jaket summary gave me hope for Leviathan. I spilled tea on a book I was reading and had to layer paper towels and weigh it down with books in order to save it (the book is safe now and being read again). So I look over my stack of library loot and picked up Leviathan. It seemed like a good book for the afternoon.

Review: It was not my favorite book of February. It was a quick read. I think it took me about 3 hours. I read part of it Friday and finished it last night after Olympic coverage. I kept feeling as though the book was striving for its potential, but not quite reaching it. When it concluded I wondered if I had secretly been reading book one of a series. Having looked at Borders I know it is book one. I can forgive the ending now. The following is the trailer from the Borders web page



Summary: Alek is the son of Archduke Ferdinand, and a Clanker. Deryn is a Darwinist British soldier maquerading as Dylan to serve. Clankers and Darwinists are not exactly enemies, but they are definately not friends. At World War 1 in this alternate timeline begins, the lives of our two protagonists converge. Both youngster's have their world expanded, their training tested, and their beliefs questioned.

3 out of 5 stars.
Speculative Fiction Challenge 2010 book

Side Note: I definately want to check out more Steam Punk Novels. I liked the idea of the technologies.

First Test

First Test By Tamora Pierce returns the reader to Tortall. I listened to the audio book. It was once again a lot of fun. Keladry is the first girl accepted into Page Training in the Kingdom of Tortall. However, She is under probation. She is in the first year to prove her worth or return to her parents home. For those who are familiar with Tamora Pierce's world, Kel has recently returned from living in the Yamani islands. Armed with her unique background and her determination, Kel begins to win over some pages, while building enemies among others. In order to avoid Spoiler's I refrain from sharing more, however I will say I love Kel's spunk and grit.

I continually enjoy reading of Tortall. This book is definately aimed towards younger readers than Terrier or Trickster's Queen. Kel was only 10 at the book's beginning, while Becca and Ali were a few years older. That definately has an impact on how the book plays out.

Speculative Fiction Challenge 2010
Fantasty Fiction Challenge 2010

Persuasion

I finished Persuasion by Jane Austen this week. It was not my favorite Jane Austen book. So here is my theory. I watched multiple versions of Emma before I read it and love it. I watched muliptle versions of Pride and Prejudice before reading it and loved it. I had no prior knowledge outside of the back book cover of Persuasion and it was a challenging book. So my theory is that part of the enjoyment when I read Austen is foreknowledge. Reading the cleverly written lines, while knowing full well what is going to happen later is a major part of my enjoyment. I the faux pas of Emma, as she bungles match making and  mixes up friendships are so much funnier knowing how the story ends. So here's what I plan on doing. Step one watch Persuasion. Step two read Persuasion again. I feel it didn't have the same change Austen's other books had.

At this point I would give Persasion a 3 out of 5.

This book is part of the Austen Challenge.

This book is part of the 451 Challenge.

Persuasion is the story of Ann Elliots. She lives with her sister Elizabeth and Father Sir Walter. Do to exravagent spending they lease out their property and move into simplier lodgings in Bath. However Anne spends time with her married sister Mary's and at the Lady Russell before joing her father in Bath. During those days, she meets back up with Frederick Wentworth, her love from 8 years ago. Through a series of events including new connections, families, and old associates, Jane Austen crafts a beautiful story around the life of Anne Elliot.

I got this book through using bookmooch.

Friday Fill-Ins

Visit Friday-Fill-Ins for all the other participants sentences.

1. A cup of tea is the perfect cure for ailments from sleeplessness, to sleepiness.


2.The right acessories makes a place feel like home.

3. Everything has its beauty Though not all has it clearly apparent.

4. To a lovely vanilla yogurt she added the beauftiful ripe berries, Ah how I love coming into summer and the taste of strawberries?

5. Art makes me Happy especially when I am creating. (see my newest art below)

6. LOL I just noticed I forgot to eat breakfast, but I just remedied that.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to more Olympics Coverage, tomorrow my plans include A walk with a friend if the weather cooperates and Sunday, I want to Bake something yummy!

PeanutButterCupCakes

Okay so, I have not been reading much. I am nearly done with Persuasion, and the Mermaid Chair. However, with the Olympics on, books, keep being put down to watch Olympic History. I love watching everything from Curling, to Moguls, to Ice Dancing. I have had time to crochet during commercials and cross country skiing. I have also utilized my crockpot to cook delicious stew without much effort, and I've done some inventive baking. Which leads me to the title.
Someone's blog shared a cupcake they recieved for Valentines Day which had a peppermint patty inside the cupcake. I thought, what else can I put in a cupcake.

Ingredients:
One Betty Crocker Chocolate Cake Mix
1/2 c All Natural Peanut Butter
1/2 c Powdered sugar.
1 can of Whipped Chocolate Frosting

How To:
I mixed the peanut butter and powdered sugar together in a bowl and set aside.Then I mized the cake mix as directed (I substituted Apple Sauce for the oil.).  Next I filled mini muffin tins as directed. Then I took about a chunk of the peanut butter mixture (about an average marble size). I flattened it and pushed it just below the surface of the cupcake batter. Bake as normal (mini cupcakes take less time than regular size). After they were cool, I gave them a thin layer of chocolate frostings. I took them over to my pastor's house for evening church and had no leftovers.

I had requests for making them again.

Friday Fill-Ins February 19

Clearly I have Olympics on my mind. I only pause to watch my hour of Gilmore Girls and then it's back to whatever channel has the best sport.

1. Johnny Weir leaves an impression (and is bilingual, which is cool).

2. I am planning my schedule around the 2010 Olympics.

3. And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was overcome by the chances awaiting the fairy upon reaching full bloom.

4. There are things in the Olympics like the triple lutz, which take practice and skill, that you must work for years to obtain. Then there are things like throwing a stone in curling, which while not achievable on Olympic level, are indeed attemptable, if you get an urge.

5. Having sweet dreams comes from having a sweet life hypothesized the character in animal dreams, but I'd leave it at enables one to wake up rested.

6. What does it take to create an art piece worthy of being sold.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to watching ice dancing, tomorrow my plans include housework and more Olympics and Sunday, I want to be watching the ice dancing finals!


Weekly fun hosted at Friday Fill-Ins

To Kill a Mockingbird

To Kill a Mockingbird is one of those required books I read in school. As my 7th grade computer class is reading it Literature and doing an extension project in computers, I thought I would reread the classic text. I am so glad I did. Harper Lee did a superb job crafting her novel.


Summary: Scout Finch is the daughter of Atticus, a lawyer in Maycomb, Alabama. The book covers a few years of her childhood. When her father is appointed as the defense attourny of a black man against a white family, Scouts idyllic existence begins to erode. Scout and her brother Jem learn about the harsh realities within 1930’s Alabama. Through various members of her family and town Scout discovers racial issues, class differences, and most importantly standing up for what is right.

Review: The book is worthy of classic status. The book was meticulously researched. Details about the Great Depression, the state of Alabama, and the current events of the time were integrated into the story to create a natural memoir feel to the text. It even included a section about Alabama in the Rose bowl. Personally I know they were in the Rose Bowl multiple times during the 1930’s. The book also deals with cultural issues of the south in the 1930’s. The racial issues in the book are well developed and complicated, which carried a Scout through understanding the society she was growing up within. Her father chided them to not take advantage of those who were easy prey. He aunt, while displaying her own prejudices, urged her to be proud of history. Her community displayed the best and the worst humanity offered. Lastly, the mockingbirds, which do no harm, are explained on multiple levels.

Recommendation: A Resounding Yes (5 out of 5). If you have not read it, find a copy and give it a go. If you have read it as a child but have forgotten it, it is worth a reread. I am certainly glad I picked it up.

This book is also part of the 451 Challenge 2010

Artemis Fowl

Artemis Fowl was my most recent audio book completed. I am not certain about what to do with it. I enjoyed listening to the story, but had issues with the book upon completion. It is part of a series and I think I would give the next book a try, but I am not rushing to acquire it. At times it was fascinating, and at times I felt it was a bit oversimplified.

3 Good Things.

1. The LEP fairy Holly Short was clever and determined. I looked forward to when the narration moved to Holly's thoughts. 

2. I loved how the narrator kept pausing upon introducing characters and saying that they're story was a tale for another day. It gave a sense that this story was just one episode within the larger scheme of life. The minor characters were not just 2D props, but greater players in other areas of their life.

3. The advancements in fairy technology were primarily the result of a Centaur's hard work. I appreciate the diverse creatures within the fairy realm.

2 Not so Good things
1. It irritated me that I never could decide who the protagonist actually was.

2. I did not like Artemis. I could not develop any warmth towards his creative genius. In fact, I did not care for his devious nature either. I am wondering if he gets more engaging as the series progresses.

3. I felt at times the characters were talking down to the readers. Oversimplifying and underestimating the reader. It is a YA book, so maybe it doesn't but my YA friends are clever and would not approve of being talked down to.


Speculative Fiction Challenge 2010

Fantasty Fiction Challenge 2010

The Lightning Thief: Percy Jackson and The Olympians

I love the series and I shared my books with 3 more people. Opening day of the movie was Friday and I had a lot of fun watching the movie with a few friends. All who watched it, loved it. The movie was a bit different than the first book. However, I've come to appreciate the differences in media between the printed text and a moving picture. Not everything translates well between the two. Differences must occur. That being said, There were things I was dissappointed about. There were characters I missed and some changes that I felt were out of character with the overall world created by Riordan.

Would I recommend the movie? Yes.
For people who loved the books, keep an open mind. For people who haven't read them, you get to watch without syncronization issues, so enjoy it.

Mailbox Monday Feb 15th

I have two new books. First, Who Owns the World. I pre-ordered it from Borders and have really enjoyed the parts I have read. I had no idea about the details of ownership between monarchies and the lands they rule. The second is Cleopatra's Daughter. I won this autographed copy at Celtic Lady Reviews.   I am definately look forward to reading this lovely book.

Happy Reading.

This meme is hosted by The Printed Page.

Friday Fill-Ins Feb 12

1. Pickles pickles, pickles, smells, pickle train conductor, to quote Loreli Gilmore.

2. I’m hiding out at my local Starbucks because I have a ton of things on my to do list that are screaming at me at home.

3. The snow is great when I visit it in the mountains where it lives, but not so great when it coats my roads and invades my daily life.

4. Sometimes I sit and look out my picture window, the big one that overlooks the lake and smile, thankful for the variety scene in nature.

5. It's 5:16 PM; that means I’m eating dinner and watching the daily Gilmore Girls episode laughing with Stars Hollow.

6. A good pair of shoes is hard to find.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to The Lightening Thief, Dinner with friends, and the Opening of Olympics , tomorrow my plans include Attending my monthly art group and watching Olympics and Sunday, I want to sleep in!


This is part of Friday Fill-Ins  a fun weekly blog meme that stretches my creativity.

Historic Fiction Book Question.

My principal is not happy with the quality of the current literature book that accompanies the Aztec, Mayan, and Incan history class. Does anyone have a suggestion for an appropriate YA book around one of these three civilizations? It would be for middle school aged students. For an idea of their reading level, I know they read Three Cups of Tea and To Kill a Mockingbird.

I found a few by searching. It would even be helpful if someone knew something about one of the listed books:

The Well of Sacrifice by Chris Eboch
LADY OF PALENQUE: FLOWER OF BACAL by Anna Kirwan
Colibri by Ann Cameron

Thanks for any help you are able to offer.

Ophelia, (yes Hamlet's Ophelia)

Ophelia by Lisa Klein was a find in the YA section of my local library. I remember falling in love with the story of Hamlet my senior year in high school. We read Hamlet, we watched Hamlet, and then we watched Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead. Since then I have always enjoyed Hamlet adventures. So, imagine my excitement at getting to read the story of Hamlet from the perspective of Ophelia. Lisa Klein has re-imagined the story of Hamlet through the eyes of Ophelia.

Unfortunately, I cannot say that I loved this book. The book started out brilliantly. Ophelia narrates beginning as a young girl. However, I had a difficult time during the middle part of the book. I almost gave up on the book, but I was curious about how the book was going to conclude. I am glad that I finished the book. If you are a fan of Hamlet, the end is worth perseverence.


This book is part of the Historic Fiction Challenge 2010

Sisters Who Would Be Queen

Sister's Who Would Be Queen by Leanda de Lisle is a Non-fiction account of The Grey sisters, who were Grand-nieces of Henry VIII.

Borders Description: "Mary, Katherine, and Jane Grey--sisters whose mere existence nearly toppled a kingdom and altered a nation's destiny--are the captivating subjects of de Lisle's book. The author breathes fresh life into these three women's lives and provides perspective on their place within history."

After reading a few positive reviews and the above description I was eager to get my hands on the book. I had to do an inter-library loan to acquire the book. I'd read both fiction and non-fiction books about Jane before and honestly knew little about her sisters. I finally began the book a few days ago.

The Good: I thought the book was very well reseached. The author takes time to not only elucidate facts, but also to dispell common myths. I appreciated that. Additionally, I felt the book was very readable and neatly organized. I also loved the family trees in the beginning of the book.

The Negative: The great number of people in the Grey sister's life would be overwelming for someone not steeped in Tudor life. I would have appreciated a glossary of people. The other issue is the book was quite Jane heavy. Since both Katherine and Mary outlived their sister, I had expected a higher percentage of their life included.

Reccomendation: Those who enjoy reading about English history, particularily the Tudor era, will enjoy this very readable non-fiction account of the Grey family. I would be careful reccommending this to a Novice to the Tudor era.

My First Award. Quite Exciting

This was given to me by Jenny Q (The Lady Quilan) at Let Them Read Books.


The rules for this award are rather simple. All I have to do is answer the following questions with a single word answer and then pass this along to five bloggers.

(1) Your Cell Phone? Cracked

(2) Your Hair? Long

(3) Your Mother? Crafter

(4) Your Father? Historian

(5) Your Favorite Food? Pizza

(6) Your Dream Last Night? heartwrenching

(7) Your Favorite Drink? Caffeinated

(8) Your Dream/Goal? Author

(9) What Room Are You In? Greatroom

(10) Your Hobby? computers

(11) Your Fear? lonliness

(12) Where Do You Want To Be In Six Years? Marseilles

(13) Where Were You Last Night? Ents

(14) Something That You Aren't? Slender

(15) Muffins? Cosco

(16) Wish List Item? theatre

(17) Where Did You Grow Up? northwest

(18) Last Thing You Did? Blog

(19) What Are You Wearing? flannel

(20) Your TV? none

(21) Your Pets? rocks

(22) Friends? Few

(23) Your Life? Busy

(24) Your Mood? Melancholy

(25) Missing Someone? always

(26) Vehicle? Jeep

(27) Something You Aren't Wearing? socks

(28) Your Favorite Store? Target

(29) Your Favorite Color? Green

(30) When Was The Last Time You Laughed? Thursday

(31) Last Time You Cried? Thursday

(32) Your Best Friend? Rachel

(33) One Place You Go To Over And Over Again? Starbucks

(34) Facebook? disenchanted

(35) Favorite Place To Eat? depends



I'm passing this award along to some of blogs that I am currently enjoying.
1. Confessions and Ramblings of a Muse in the Fog
 
2. Life Undivided
 
3. Tudor Literature Piece
 
4. My Life In Not So Many Words
 
5. Brenda Loves Books
 

Friday Fill-Ins Feb 5

Friday Fill In’s (My first but fill-in 162) Hosted at Friday Fill-Ins

1. I know all the species in the Camilidae family (camels, dromenaries, llamas, vicunas, guanacos, and alpacas.)
2. How is it that February only has 28 days and yet this already seems like the world’s the longest month.
3. You can't help but laugh when it begins pouring down rain right as you head out across the parking lot.
4.  Printer cartridges on back order, computer incompatibility problems, and two open houses; bring it on!
5. Where have you looked for joy this week? I looked into the eyes of my favorite 12 year old as she sported lovely neon pink earrings.
6. Molded cream cheese for a Super bowl bash is now available.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to watching my newest Netflic movie, tomorrow my plans include Open house and Cooking Crockpot Chili and Sunday, I want to Bring on the food and Party Super Bowl Style!

Sundays a Tiffanys... Expect the Unexpected

This is my first James Patterson book. He wrote it with Gabrielle Charbonnet. I read a good review from one of my fellow bloggers and then ran across it in the audio book section at my library. Quite honestly, it was the title that was the tipping point. One of my favorite songs is Breakfast at Tiffany's by Deep Blue Something. I actually watched the movie because of the song. So now the song has led me to James Patterson.

First, I was not prepared for the book. It has some intense moments. I was quite overwhelmed by the twists and turns. At one point I metaphorically slammed the book on the dashboard and threatened the author. I feel like if a book can elicit that extreme of a response, then it is definately worth a review.

The story begins with Jane and her imaginary friend Michael. Her life is difficult, but since she has Michael, she is not alone. Then fast forward to Jane as a adult. One day she is at the Regis and she sees Michael. The changes in her life that ensue hard for me to begin to describe without filling my blog with spoilers.

4.5 out of 5 stars

The Art of Racing in the Rain

I saw this at Cosco the other day. I read it in hardback, but I guess now the Art of Racing in the Rain is out in paperback. For more information on the author Garth Stein and his other books, visit his website.

I smile as I remember Enzo. This book was an unexpected treasure. The book is set in the Greater Seattle area. The protagonist and narrator is a dog. He observes the life of his master through triumphs and tribulations. I read the store copy at a Starbucks. I would stay after my shift ended curled up reading it until I had to dash off to class. It captured me from the very beginning. While the dog as the narrator, it was edgier than your average dog story.

Summary:

Enzo, looks back over his life and tells the reader about life as he best understood it. We journey back in time and follow Enzo the dog as he attempted to sort out changes around him. His owner Denny was a race car driver and watched races on TV with him. Denny’s life altering events including marriage and parenthood were all witnessed through the eyes of Enzo. The reader is drawn into the confusion and mystery Enzo experienced as he from his four-pawed perspective tried to sort out how to help the people he cared about. We also learn about Enzo’s perspective of life as his philosophical commentary adds an additional layer to the plotline.

4.5 out of 5 stars.

Terrier, first of 3 Beka Cooper Books. by Tamora Pierce

I checked this out from my local library as an audio book. I loved Terrier. The narrator was an excellent reader. By the time the first CD was completed, I was eager to travel in my car in order to continue the story.

Summary:

The story is set in Tortall. In the city of Korus, Beka Cooper was a trainie in the Provost Guards. Called a puppy, she was assigned to two senior guards. Her dogs were the legendary Goodwin and Tunstall. Assigned to the lower city, Beka begins to see her childhood home through the eyes of a guard. Beka had an unusual purple eyed cat and more unusual talents. Her granny called it a bit of magic. Although no lower city dog has an easy life, her puppy training takes an abrupt uphill curve when she begins investigating, not one but two cases of missing folk. She gathers caring folk from the lower city including those not completely on the side of the law into a team determined to set some things right.

Having finished the book in it's audio version I can say I have enjoyed both reading (seemy review of Trickster's Choice) and listening to Tamora Pierce. Her characters have strengths and flaws. Beka is determined to protect the vulnerable, and yet at the same time timid to speak up. Her characters seem to grow. The difference between Beka at the beginning and end of the book clearly reflects her adventures within the book. Thirdly, I appreciate how Tamora has created an imaginary world full of fantasy, still enabling the reader to connect with the structure and the fabric of the life. Tortall is rich and unique, yet there is much that I can see in my own country.

I give this book a 5 out of 5. I would definately read or listen to it again.
If you have not read a Tamora Pierce book, check this one out. And, if you an audio book listener, consider giving it a listen.

This audio book fulfils a book in Fantasy Challenge 2010

This audio book also fufills a book in Speculative Fiction 2010

Mail Box Monday Feb 1

I was convinced that I would not buy, borrow, or acquire any new books this last week, and then I walkked into  B&N needing to kill a half hour. I have two new books. They were only $2 each are not fiction. That helps.
This first is The Acrylic Pain Color Wheel Book by John Barber. (no picture found) I'm hoping to improve my color mixing abilities.
The second is Pretty Little Patchwork, which is full of patch quilt projects. I think it will be instructive and a useful companion to my newish sewing machine.

So that is all. Not a lot to report.

Thanks to the Printed Page for hosting.

Black Beauty, a Beautiful Book

Black Beauty by Anna Sewell is a classic young adult book. It was first published in 1877. Then is was a commentary on the treatment of horses in Victorian England. It now reads as a historic fiction book narrated by a horse. I have owned a beautiful copy of this book for years, but until this last week had not read they story. Having watched Black Beauty, I knew the storyline and not. However I was charmed by the simplistic narration of Black Beauty. Quite honestly, the story was a charming book.


Summary:

Black Beauty follows the life of a horse as he progresses through multiple owners in Victorian England. We meet this horse as a colt and follow him through his adventures as he observes the society and people around him. His commentary discusses the treatment of horses and how fashionable society affected that treatment. Living in both the country and in London, he encounters both kind and brutal owners. He also develops relationships with horses and weaves their stories into his own narrative.

Recommendation:

This book is part of the 451 challenge list. That is why I read it and I am thrilled that I spend a few hours in the mind of black beauty. This lovely book could be read by almost anyone from the high ability 2nd grade (8 years old) reader through adults. As a fan of historic fiction, I appreciated the peek into the English society of Black Beauty’s era. If one loves horses, this book would also be an enjoyable read. The third kind of prospective reader would be one who enjoys political commentary. Just as Alice in Wonderland was commentary of that day’s age. Anna Sewell wove many observations about societal norms in Black Beauty’s narration, but leaves conclusions to be formed in the reader’s mind.

This book is one of the 451 Challenge 2010.

Mailbox Monday Jan 25th

I finally looked up what in the world bookmooch was and wow, if you have not, it is an amazing way to swap books with people all over the world. This week the only book recieved was through the use of bookmooch. I acquired my very own copy of Jane Austen's Persuasion. I am excited because I love her books I have read.
And now with a brighter outlook despite the rain, I shall start my Monday.

The meme is hosted at Printed Page. Vist there to check other books newly arrived.

Weight of the World

This weekend has been difficult at best and frustratingly unaccomplished. I woke up Saturday to another grey and rainy day. The sun poked itself out for a few scattered moments. I did manage a walk in the morning with a friend, but returned to my house only to develop a headache that I have still not shaken a full day later.

Today, I feel listless. My plans for the afternoon have been canceled because of the continued rain. I have a stack of books I cannot begin, a pile of yarn that I cannot crochet, and a list of chores I cannot begin. The really sad part is I am really okay with curling up on the couch with tea and the remote control. I feel like I’m slipping into sadness.

I have gotten dressed up in a favorite new outfit, put make up and fixed my hair, so why do I still feel yucky. I ought to pursue something creative, as that always helps, before I go to church tonight. Otherwise I will be dreadful company. So, I will stop my complaining, pull out my apron, drag out my paints and try to get out of this funk.

The Other Queen by Philippa Gregory

I checked this out as an audio book from my local library.

The Good: The book held quite true to what I do know about Mary Queen of Scots time in England. The trio of narrators enabled the reader to engage in the book from three points of view. First there was the lady of the house, Bess, who also acts as a representative of the rising mechant class. They rose from a combination of hard work and the fall of papal control in England. She was duplicitous and very aware of possesions. Then there was George, who as the Master of the house represents old money and a noble lineage dating back to William the Conquerer. He was consistent in his loyalty to the Queen of England and yet torn by his enamourment for the other queen. The third narrator was the other Queen herself, Mary Queen of Scots. She was raised in the courts of France as a Princess and has claims to the throne of England and Scotland. Yet, she is a prisoner to her cousin Elizabeth, conspirator in pursuit of the throne. Beloved by some and feared by others, she narrates moments of hope anddespair.

The Bad: I mighted have enjoyed reading the book, however as an audio book it was slow moving. It was comprised of  14 CD's with 70 minutes each. I could have done with about 4 CD's less worth of material. In fact I was dissapointed by the overall book. I have enjoyed other books by Philippa Gregory, so I truly believe that I would have liked it better as a read, than a listen.
Additionally, Bess was increasingly annoying as I listened to her issues over money and possessions. I desired being able to skim over her sections, but alas that is not possible in an audio book.

As an Audio book 2 out 5 stars. If you want to check out the book, read, don't listen.

This book is part of my Historical Fiction Challenge 2010

Finishing Fallen

Fallen by Lauren Kate

Okay, first off I didn't wait until I had both books finished. I did finish one, but then Fallen's cover beckoned me. I discarded my other library book, which will now need renewing in order to finish. If you have not seen the cover of Fallen in full size, I must share that it is much more haunting and inticing in person that as a tiny picture on a blog site.

Okay first impressions: I loved the book and am reluctantly passing it onto my friend to read, before I reread it, which I definately must do.

Review: When I purchased the book, I took a risk based on the reviews of my fellow book review bloggers. Most of the reviews I had read gave Fallen rave reviews. I added it to my borders shopping cart and waited for it's arrival. Then when I began reading it, I had a bit of trouble getting into the book. The first couple chapters were not terribly engaging, but I had purchased the book and was determined to give it a go. So I read onto chapter 3 and from that point on all my spare moments were filled with devouring the book.

There were parts of this story that are quite predictable, however as I was discussing relationships in movies and books with a friend, I realised that there are things that have to be predictable or they come out of knowhere and appear incongruent with the story. The story overall was full of intrigue and new revelations. There were plenty of twists to keep one guessing. One of the characters suggests to Luce she will have to learn the truth one chapter at a time, and that is what I would also suggest to the reader. Get the book and prepare yourself for an intense and enjoyable time with the students at Skull and Cross.

What is it all about: (If I really answered that question, I would be filling the blog with spoilers) Luce, short for Lucinda arrived at Skull and Cross school and begins to interact with the student population, who are clearly hiding pasts. Since Skull and Cross is a reform school, and she has her own past to hide, Luce accepts  her new friends secretive nature. However, this state of the unknown does not extend to Daniel the boy who she is drawn too.

My favorite Character: Arianne. I loved that her personality was a study in contrasts. She was hard and soft at the same time. She kept her own secrets secret, yet she exteneded a welcoming arm of friendship. She was at the same time impulsive and far thinking. I imagine she would be a blast as a friend.

Okay enought said, anything else would just be filled with spoilers. I think that's why I am willing to share the book so I can converse with someone and debrief without ruining the read for another.

Completing this book is part of two challenges
Speculative Fiction Challenge 2010
Fantasy Reading Challenge 2010

Makeup has a shelf life...

The Today Show 's segment on makeup shelf life. It was eye opening.

Okay I always knew that Mascara was suppossed to be thrown out every three months just like a tootbrush, but I had no idea other make up items had such a short shelf life.  Lipglosses with wands have only a 3 month shelf life, while lipsticks have about a 1 year shelf life. They also discussed spf products, eyeliners, foundation, brushes, and cream verses powder shadows. I have cleaned out my cabinet. Actually it was very kathartic. While I was on a role, I sorted my nail polish too, tossing the glumpy.

The best part about getting rid of all the excess, the old, and the expired products in my make up drawer, is now I get to shop for new products. I have two places that I love. Online I visit Eyes Lips Face. It has makeup for as little as $1.00. I love their customizable eye shadow and their shimmer facial whip. The other place I go is Sephora. When I go into their store I am always a little overwhelmed. I head over to the Sephora brand line and reorientate myself. I love their tiny nail polish bottles, because I never run out polisg before the nail polish goes bad. I also love their waterproof mascara. It really stays in place. So, now I get to find some lovely new products.

Between Two Queens

I finished Kate Emerson's book Between Two Queens. I had eagerly anticipated beginning this book. I love reading about the Tudor era. I struggled to get into the book. As I have read many books both fiction and non-fiction around the Tudors, I struggled connecting with the unknown characters in the beginnning of the book. I also had difficulty liking Nan. However, the book had such great reviews, I was determined to give the book a fair attempt. I came to appreciate Nan's position in society. Finally about a third of the way through the book I was captured by Nan's resiliance and the the unpredictable nature of her storyline. I am thoroughly glad I read the book. Additionally I want to read more books by Kate Emerson. I appreciate her ability to weave fiction into fact and craft a complete story about a real person. I also appreciate her index of peoples that concludes the book. In that the reader learns about the people in the book. A warning though, you may not want to read them before the book, they do contain spoilers.

Happy Reading 3.5 out of 5 stars.
This book is also part of my Historical Fiction Reading Challenge 2010

Mailbox Monday Jan 18th

This is a short post. I acquired two books in my mailbox. The first was purchased from Borders.com. After reading the reviews of a great many of my fellow bloggers, I bought Fallen by Lauren Kate. The book is quite alluring. I have not opened it yet, because I have a few books I must finish first. From the reviews, I know it has the potential to cancel plans in order that one may continue reading the book. I am quite excited to have it waiting in the wings. The second book I received compliments of Thomas Nelson Publishing to review. It is caled The Selfless Gene by Charles Foster. The ideas the book deal with have intrigued me since high school. I even did a large project in grad school on Origins and developed a spectrum of authors on the subjects of evolution and creation.  So, I literally jumped at the opportunity to review this book. Now if I can just finish the two of the library books I have started, I will be  able to open the covers of both my new books.

Thanks to the Printed Page for hosting Mailbox Mondays.

And now I am signing off to continue reading Between Two Queens.

The Moon by Night and the slow reading week.

The Slow Week
I have been swamped this week by a crazy amount of work outside the classroom, and preparation for what I hope be doing this summer. When I was reading I bounced between 2 books that were not particularly engaging. The first book is A Small Rain, which was published in 1945. It is very much a first book. It has the typical authobiographical feel in the main character and sense of raw talent in the prose. The secong book was her book The Moon by Night. It was contemporary fiction when written in 1963. I now have a pile of books that look more promising.


The Moon by Night
This is part of my personal challenge to read all of Madeline L'Engle's books. This one will not appear on a favorites list. I am not sure if I would ahve finished it without my personal challenge. The Moon by Night one of the YA books about the Austins.
Summary: Vicky is is child 2of 4 and the oldest daughter. She is 14 and seems to be quite moody. Her character annoyed me. The plot has the entire Austin clan camping across the North America. They begin in the Northeast, travel south and across to California, then North and back into Canada and then south a bit and across the Northern states. They meet various people as they camp an frequently run into the same people at later campsites. Most notably is the character of Zachary Grey, who I appears in other L'Engle books.

Review: I did enjoy some of the National Park desciptions. However overall the overwelming anoying qualities of Vicky complicated the enjoyment level. I think I might have enjoyed the book better from the view of John, the eldest child. John seemed to be a wonderfully clever character who might have made fantastic observations throughout the trip. Contemporary in the 1960's much of the story is a bit dated, however the issues Vicky Austin dealt with are issues that teenagers still have.

I would give this 2 out of 5 stars.

Waiting on Wednesday

Okay I have seen this meme, and this week I have one. On Monday I saw Who Owns the World reviewed at Reading at the Beach.

I was entranced by the review, excited by the book, and curious about who owns the world. So now I am waiting on it. It comes out January 29, 2010.

I think the line that sold me was "Queen Elizabeth II owns 1/6 of the entire land surface on earth (nearly 3 times the size of the U.S.)."
So check out the review (there's also a giveaway ending 1/17). OR if you miss that pre-order it like I did.
Thanks to Breaking the Spine for hosting Waiting on Wednesdays. 
And Bookshelf Monstrosity for helping me find the fun.

Yummy Apple Baking Adventure

This weekend I was craving something sweet and warm so I looked through my cabinets and behold the makings of apple crisp. So, I could have looked up a recipe, but I was feeling creative. This is what I used and the result was amazing. The apple part was a bit on the sweet side, so I'd halve the suger next time in the filling.

Apple Crisp
Topping:
2 cup Oatmeal
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 TBS Butter at room temp
1/8 tsp each ground nutmeg and and ground cinnamon
1/4 cup craisens. (dried cranberries)

Filling:
2 Golden Delicious apples cored and chopping into 1/2 to 1 inch pieces (I left the skins on but you could peel them)
1/4 cup soy milk (you could use regular milk)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 tsp nutmeg

Preheat oven to 350. Mix filling and put in 8 inch pan. Mix topping until crumbly. top filling with topping. place in oven and bake for 35-45 minutes. topping should be browned and filling will be bubbly.

Mailbox Monday Jan 11

Last Tuesday I went to the Friends of Library used Book store. They have 50 cent paper backs for the month of January. I bought some beloved read that I now get to own and a few new books that I now get to discover.

Purchased for rereading:

All the Weyrs of Pern by Ann McCaffrey. This is from the books of Pern and a fantastic read. If you've never read any of her Pern books, start with Dragonflight. It's one of the early ones and helps the reader understand the world a bit more than some of the later ones which make assumptions about the reader's knowledge.

The Hobbit by JRR Tolkien. I love this book and now I finally own it.

An Acceptable Time  by Madeline L'Engle. I think I may have read it, but for 50 cents it's a worthy addition to my collection and my quest to read all her books.

New to Me:

Black by Ted Dekker. I have not read any of his books before, so I thought I would give it a go.

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Mr Darcy Takes a Wife  by Linda Berdoll. It sounds good and I can use it for my Austen Challenge.

Star Wars Children of the Jedi by Barbara Hambly. Some of the Star Wars books are good and some are not. I am taking the risk.

Thanks to Marcia at The Printed Page for hosting this weekly fun. Please visit her site to see who else acquired great reads this week.

Revelations ( Blue Bloods Series)

I saw the Van Alan Legacy in the stores and realized Revelations had come out and I had not yet read it. So I dashed out and picked up Melissa De La Cruz's book Revelations. I had read the first two Blue Blood books in about a week. It took me so long because I had to go back to the library and acquire the second one. I love my local library, but that is another post altogether.
I read the book quickly and enjoyed watching the characters progress through the book, but it wasn't my favorite book of the series. My favorite so far is Masquerade. The ending both concluded the current mystery and left many questions unaswered. I definately want to get the next book. If you like the other stories about the Van Alans, the Forces, and the Llewellyns, then this is a definate read. My favorite character in the book is Bliss Llewellyn. During this book she begins asking a lot of questions. These are serious and yet she doesn't ask her own parents, she seeks out the answers from other sources.
I'd give the book 3 out of 5 stars.

The book was borrowed from the local library.
This book is one for the Speculative Fiction 2010 challenge.

Historical Fiction... One more Challenge

So I am halfway through my second Historical Fiction book, it is only January 8, and I had not joined a Historic Fiction Challenge. What was I thinking? So, I looked around and over at Royal Reviews they have just the Challenge for me.

I'm going to go for Addicted: 12 Historical Fiction Novels
It runs Jan 1 through Dec 31 2010. This is going to be great and I'm super excited to read all the other reviews out there in the challenge.

okay 5 challenges, I can handle it.
The First Book(after the one read alread) : Sisters Who would be Queen

Innocent Traitor by Alison Wier

I checked this book out from my local library. I'll give almost any Tudor book a try, and I am especially a sucker for Lady Jane Grey. This is the third book I have read about her. Innocent Traitor was brilliantly written. Alison Wier moves among the various main characters providing the reader a glimpse into the mind Northumberland, Lady Jane, Mrs. Ellen, Jane's parents, and many others. She titled each section with who was narrating, the location of the action and the date it was occuring. That was very helpful.

While there was much in the novel that was true to the biography of Lady Jane Grey, the book is a novel. By writing it as a novel instead of a biography, Alison Wier was able to infer and fill in gaps to bring the story into full bloom. If you have never read a story about Lady Jane Grey, this is a great start to learning about her. If you have read and enjoyed stories about her life, this is a great additional story about her.
I'd give this a 4 out of 5.

The Trickster's Choice

I have now been introduced to the world of Tortall, imagined by Tamora Pierce. I picked up The Trickster's Choice at the airport bookstore after wandering around wishing I had my list of to be reads. I am terrible with names, so I am always forgetting new author's names. So I finally decided to play it safe in the the YA section. I found this book and had no idea the boon I was about to discover. I loved the book and am eager to read the next book as it is part of a trilogy within the Tortall books.

Aly, a well bred Tortellan lady of 16 years, ends up in the Golden isles. Once in the islands she is caught up in court intrigue, wagers with the Trickster God, and issues between the Raka and the Luarin that go back hundreds of years. She meets an array of courageous and charming people. The reader becomes acquainted unforgetable Tawat, the calculating Chenaol, and the benevolent Mequen. I am eager to read the next book in order to see what happens to my favorite characters.


This book fulfills one book in my Speculative Fiction Challenge 2010.
This book fulfills one book in my Fantasy Fiction Challenge 2010

For More information on Tamora Pierce and her many books try her website.

My Darcy Broke My Heart by Beth Pattillo

When I was offered a copy of this book to review, I got really excited and then it didn't come in before I flew out for Christmas. I had to wait until after the holidays to retrieve it from my PO Box. When I picked up the book to read it, I had drank my tea and kept on reading until I had read the last page. It was a quick little read that I plan to reindulge in. Mr. Darcy Broke My Heart is written by the same author of Jane Austen Ruined My Life.


What I think:
This book placed an American Jane Austen novice in the middle Oxford England for A Pride and Prejudice Seminar. There Claire meets a array of charactors who are not exactly what their initial appearances would imply. She ends up in the middle of a mystery and through it makes discoveries about her own life. The overall plot was somewhat predictable yet thoroughly enjoyable. I loved rambling through Oxford with Claire and sipping tea as she sipped tea with her many new aquaintences. I would give this book 4 out of 5 stars. It is definately rereadable and has found a home on my bookshelf.

The book comes out in February. Thanks to Phenix and Phenix for giving me the opportunity to review this book The following summary and author information was also provided by them.

Summary
Claire Prescott is an unemployed office manager from Kansas City who leaves behind her nice, if somewhat neglectful, boyfriend to attend a Jane Austen seminar in Oxford, England. There, she discovers the original manuscript for Pride and Prejudice titled First Impressions. Rumored to have been destroyed centuries ago, it reveals Austen’s secret struggle to find the right leading man for Elizabeth Bennet. Was she really supposed to end up with Mr. Darcy after all?
As Claire pieces together Austen’s original story, she crosses paths with a dashing stranger—her own Mr. Darcy—who causes her to question the direction of her current relationship. But Neil’s unexpected arrival in Oxford complicates Claire’s quest to find her leading man, and she realizes that a true hero can appear in the most unexpected places. Mr. Darcy Broke My Heart is a lively mixture of humor, romance and intrigue perfect for the Jane Austen fanatic to the hopeless romantic.

About the Author
Beth Pattillo currently resides in Nashville, Tenn., with her husband and two children. Her passion for all-things Jane Austen began when she studied abroad for a semester at the University of London, Westfield College. She has made regular trips across the pond for the past 20 years, the most recent of which took her on a pilgrimage through Hampshire, where she visited many of the sites featured in her popular book, Jane Austen Ruined My Life. Pattillo is also the author of The Sweetgum Knit Lit Society (WaterBrook Press, 2008), Earth to Betsy (WaterBrook, 2006) and Heavens to Betsy (WaterBrook, 2005), for which she was awarded the RWA RITA (Romance Writer’s Association) award for Best Inspirational Romance. Visit www.bethpattillo.com for more information.

Mailbox Monday Jan 4

I acquired two books in the last week. This first is a book for me to review called Mr. Darcy broke My Heart by Beth Pattillo. I was a terrific read. I ended up taking the whole afternoon and completing it in one go. Review to come. The second book is called Trickster's Choice by Tamora Pierce. It is one of many books in the Tortall universe. This book centers around a displaced girl named Aly and her adventures. I am loving the book and excited to see many more books chronicalling Tortall.
Thanks again to the Printed Page for hosting this weekly fun.