tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-298195792009-07-14T17:49:21.641-07:00"Great Reads Reviews.com"- Book Reviews on Teen and Young Adult NovelsSure, you've probably read the "Chronicles of Narnia"...heck maybe even "Lord of the Rings". Check out our book reviews-- if you haven't read some of the great reads reviewed below...you don't know what you're missing! Now featuring news about upcoming releases!AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.comBlogger127125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-13836934226529367242009-07-14T17:27:00.000-07:002009-07-14T17:49:21.669-07:00Teen Book reviews: Evernight & Stargazer by Claudia Gray<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_IZmOnGtqS2s/Sl0lSTK7L1I/AAAAAAAAAEc/1hlR3waQSeE/s1600-h/stargazercover.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_IZmOnGtqS2s/Sl0lSTK7L1I/AAAAAAAAAEc/1hlR3waQSeE/s320/stargazercover.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358480127954726738" /></a><br />Vampires are hot and <em>Evernight</em> is a great and surprising book in that genre. The story centers around Bianca, who's been pulled out of public school to attend Evernight Academy, a boarding school where her parents are going to be teaching. Like any teen would be, Bianca is angry and upset about her parents decision, but has no choice. Things start to look up when she meets Lucas, a brooding, handsome teen. But as it turns out, both have a secret that threatens to destroy their relationship. <br /><br />This book surprised me, oh, right around page 140 as I suddenly found myself reading a very different book than I initially thought- and this was a good twist. I won't spoil it here, but if you like vampire novels, loved <em>Twilight</em> and the <em>House of Night</em> series, then you'll want to pick up this book and it's sequel.<br /><br />In <em>Stargazer</em>, Bianca and Lucas have been separated by circumstance and to keep each other safe, but Bianca soon finds out that there are even more secrets at Evernight, and something is after her. Miss Bethany, the school's headmistress, and even her parents, all seem to know more than they are letting on and their secrets could kill Bianca.<br /><br />I guarantee if you read <em>Evernight</em>, you'll want to follow up with <em>Stargazer</em>, and you won't be disappointed. I can wait for the next book in the series.<br /><br /><br />Buy this book shop at our Amazon.com <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/lassodmoondes-20/104-4305123-4563127?%5Fencoding=UTF8&node=1">"Great Reads" bookstore</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Reading" rel="tag">Reading</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-1383693422652936724?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-55473956537276167962009-05-23T05:08:00.001-07:002009-05-23T05:37:12.731-07:00Pendragon: The Soldiers of Halla<strong>SPOILERS AHEAD:</strong><br />After 5 or so years of booktime, and after 8 or so years of real time, Bobby Pendragon's struggle to save Halla and defeat Saint Dane comes to an end. We finally learn the truth about who Bobby and the travellers really are, how (and why) the territories are connected, and the answers to many other questions, though the book does leave a few at the end.<br /><br />It's hard to discuss this book without discussing the ending. It's a little confusing. I understand what's going on, but I don't understand how. There are also a few unanswered questions throughout the book too- such as Nevva being Elli's daughter, which shouldn't be possible because of who the traveller's really are (trying hard to not to spoil too much here!). Even Bobby talks about how this is really important, but that's as far as it goes. I expected there to be more about this. And the ending...well, eh. I like that Bobby (and the others) get a chance at a normal life, but why and how? They were told that they couldn't go back and the territories needed to move forward and rebuild, so how is this possible? Is it more of a dream world? I found this confusing and kind of unnecessary, though maybe if it had been bettered explained, I would have enjoyed it more. <br /><br />The book is good and definitely action packed. Fans of the series will enjoy it. The answers to who the travellers are and where they are from are interesting and unexpected, and I don't think will disappoint any fans.<br /><br />Have you read it? Leave your review below!<br /><br /><br /><br />Buy this book shop at our Amazon.com <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/lassodmoondes-20/104-4305123-4563127?%5Fencoding=UTF8&node=1">"Great Reads" bookstore</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Reading" rel="tag">Reading</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-5547395653727616796?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-79092869326832908072009-03-16T05:38:00.000-07:002009-03-16T05:57:14.619-07:00Hunted: House of Night Book 5, PC and Kristin Cast<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_IZmOnGtqS2s/Sb5Mlu8Q8II/AAAAAAAAAEM/ACqRpWeYFJQ/s1600-h/huntedcover.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 135px; height: 208px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_IZmOnGtqS2s/Sb5Mlu8Q8II/AAAAAAAAAEM/ACqRpWeYFJQ/s320/huntedcover.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5313768821483434114" /></a><br />In the fifth installment of the House of Night series, Zoey, her friends and the new red fledlings are holed up underground trying to figure out what to do next. Kalona, a fallen angel who'd been inprisoned for thousands of years by Cherokee women, has risen and taken up residence at the House of Night. Neferet is right beside him, and Zoey and her crew have never been in more danger. Zoey is still unsure how much she can trust Stevie Rae's red fledglings, and they discover that one of them is writing prophetic poetry. A deadly twist in events brings Zoey and her circle back to the House where they uncover more of Kalona and Neferet's plot to change the world of Vampyres and humans. And, throughout it all, Zoey must sort through (or completely muck up in this case) her feelings for Eric, Heath and Stark. While I understand she's young, I'm sort of tired of the "Ah, I can't decide" storyline. Zoey's story is far from over, but still, I'd like to see this aspect of it resolved, even if it's just for a short time, like a book or two. The girl needs some stability.<br /><br />But the book is great and there are some plot elements that get resolved for now and leaves plenty of room for book six, as of right titled "Tempted." It's fast paced and a really good addition to the series. Of all the boyfriends, I actually like Heath the most, so I hope he sticks around, though I know he will (if you have yet to read, you'll see what I mean).<br /><br />Some other complaint/observations: The book is in hardcover. I'm not sure why this is in this economy and because the other ones weren't. I really don't feel that young adult books should be published in hardcover, I think it's only going to hurt the industry. But that's just my .02.<br /><br />And, I believe there's a really strange typo toward the end. Sister Mary Angela refers to Zoey's grandmother as Stevie Rae's.<br /><br />So, if you've finished this latest installment, be sure to leave your reviews below.<br /><br />Buy this book shop at our Amazon.com <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/lassodmoondes-20/104-4305123-4563127?%5Fencoding=UTF8&node=1">"Great Reads" bookstore</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Reading" rel="tag">Reading</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-7909286932683290807?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-42333030504721496842008-12-23T08:53:00.000-08:002008-12-23T08:55:41.717-08:00Are You a "Great Reads" Follower?Then don't be shy! Show us who you are by signing up to "follow" "Great Reads" (scroll down a little on the left)...yes, I'm nosy.<br /><br />Have a safe and happy holiday season. We'll be back around the new year with more reviews.<br /><br />Buy this book shop at our Amazon.com <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/lassodmoondes-20/104-4305123-4563127?%5Fencoding=UTF8&node=1">"Great Reads" bookstore</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Reading" rel="tag">Reading</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-4233303050472149684?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-41716344532242910822008-12-08T05:23:00.000-08:002008-12-08T05:49:47.057-08:00Hatter M, The Graphic Novel<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_IZmOnGtqS2s/ST0hwITaeLI/AAAAAAAAAD8/fwXILdOslC8/s1600-h/HatterM.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 210px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_IZmOnGtqS2s/ST0hwITaeLI/AAAAAAAAAD8/fwXILdOslC8/s320/HatterM.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277411449094437042" /></a><br /><br />I was lucky enough to receive a review copy of the Hatter Madigan graphic novel (signed no less- thanks Frank!). With it's spooky drawings and great tie-in story to the Looking Glass Wars, it's a definite must for fans of the series. It tells the story of Hatter's desperate search for Alyss and they are separated in the Pool of Tears upon escaping from Redd's murderous rampage in the first novel. In his journeys he encounters writer Jules Verne, zombies, a helpful journalist and more as he spends 13 years trying to track down Wonderland's rightful queen. Fans will definitely appreciate this story, and will be eagerly awaiting book 2 of the series. It's not for the very young, despite it's "comic book" form. It's a graphic novel with graphic images.<br /><br />Image copyrighted by Frank Beddor, illustrated by Ben Templesmith.<br /><br /><br /><br />Buy this book shop at our Amazon.com <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/lassodmoondes-20/104-4305123-4563127?%5Fencoding=UTF8&node=1">"Great Reads" bookstore</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Reading" rel="tag">Reading</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-4171634453224291082?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-62979692807269894482008-11-27T13:33:00.000-08:002008-12-08T05:22:42.053-08:00Great Christmas BooksLooking for a good holiday read? Check out our <a href="http://great-reads.blogspot.com/search/label/Christmas%20Books">previous posts </a>on <a href="http://great-reads.blogspot.com/search/label/Christmas%20Books">"The Legend of Holly Claus" and "Twas the Night Before".</a><br />Buy this book shop at our Amazon.com <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/lassodmoondes-20/104-4305123-4563127?%5Fencoding=UTF8&node=1">"Great Reads" bookstore</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Reading" rel="tag">Reading</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-6297969280726989448?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-43934018450833167212008-11-25T16:56:00.000-08:002008-11-25T17:10:30.838-08:00Twilight the Movie reviewI'm a huge, huge fan of this series (I even liked book four- well most of it anyway). My sister and my sister-in-law are huge fans (thanks to me). Both of them were disappointed ("sucked big time" according to my sister), but I found it to be what I was expecting. I knew that a movie could not possibly capture the angst and emotion that a first-person novel could, but they do a good job. The actors play their parts well (except for Stewart who I think sounds a bit strange when she gets upset and starts yelling) and Robert Pattinson definitely works as Edward. None of the vampires as stunningly beautiful as I imagined them to be, but as vampires don't exist, I certainly wasn't unhappy with the choices the casting director made. I would've like to have seen more of the Cullen family though. I scanned through an online copy of the script (I don't know that it was legit, but it was certainly written convincingly), and there were some very small scenes taken out that I think would have been better off left in. Hey, Catherine Hardwicke- next time will you hire me to do a final viewing/editing of the movie? Or better yet, whatever little scenes you don't think you need- leave them IN. We'll love you more for it.<br /><br />The only complaint I have about this film is the score. I really really didn't like it and found it distracting. It does evoke the rainy mood of Forks and Bella's new world, but something about it bugged me. And to me, music is a huge part of what makes a movie. It sounded a little Lifetime movie-ish. Please do not use this music in the next film. <br /><br />I'm sure they'll make more movies, particularly with a $70 opening weekend, but I do hope they skip some of the unnecessary storylines and get to the good stuff. I'd love for them to combine the middle two books and then do the last one. Even though Kristen Stewart is only 18, I can see her being able to pull off the pregnancy and gut-wrenching scenes in "Breaking Dawn."<br /><br />So, my review is a positive one, but don't expect it to be as awesome as the book. Not possible. But it's a good movie and entertaining nonetheless. There's also a trailer for "Half-Blood Prince"- totally gave me goosebumps. It looks like an incredible film.<br /><br />Buy this book shop at our Amazon.com <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/lassodmoondes-20/104-4305123-4563127?%5Fencoding=UTF8&node=1">"Great Reads" bookstore</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Reading" rel="tag">Reading</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-4393401845083316721?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-27542014528624857422008-11-25T13:22:00.000-08:002008-11-25T13:33:50.776-08:00Superior Saturday: Garth NixIn this sixth installment, Arthur must race against time and magic when he enters Saturday's domain to find the next piece of the will and get the sixth key. His home his three magicked minutes away from being nuked (Arthur casts a spell to slow down time), he's still transforming into something other than human, and Saturday is planning to wage a war against Sunday and gain entrance to the Incomparable Gardens. <br /><br />Arthur's impending transformation to a Denizen (or something else) is becoming increasingly obvious in this next book. He often reacts initially in anger and frustration and physically is transforming as well. Even though he stops checking his ring, I can't imagine he's really got any humanity left by the end of the book.<br /><br />I didn't find this book quite as good as its five predecessors, as there's no big fight scene and it ends on quite the cliffhanger. But I do look forward to the last installment. This could partly be because I'm still trying to catch up on sleep and this book took me a long time to finish because of the newest "reader" in our family.<br /><br /><br /><br />Buy this book shop at our Amazon.com <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/lassodmoondes-20/104-4305123-4563127?%5Fencoding=UTF8&node=1">"Great Reads" bookstore</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Reading" rel="tag">Reading</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-2754201452862485742?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-27298834653097712532008-11-25T12:50:00.000-08:002008-11-25T16:53:32.909-08:00Bite Me: Parker BlueNew Author Spotlight:<br /><br />If you were a fan of "Buffy, the Vampire Slayer", you're sure to enjoy "Bite Me" the story of 18-year-old Val Shapiro, a vampire hunter who is half human and half succubus (a lust demon). Val's demon side gives her super strength, fast healing and the ability to make men lust after her (though an unfortunate side effect is that it also sucks their life force). After Val's little sister Jen sneaks out to help her, Val's parents decide it's time for Val to leave home so that Jen, who's all human, will stay safe. But Jen's got other plans and runs away. <br /><br />Jen is not Val's only problem. She's got herself a new job working for a covert police squad that hunts down vampires and her new partner is a hottie. Val's lust demon side (who she nicknames Lola) wants nothing more than to hook up with Dan, but Val keeps that side of her in check- though she learns that might not be the best way to deal with "Lola". She also keeps the truth from Dan, afraid that he might not want to be partners any longer if he knew the truth. But the truth isn't so easy to hide as they get closer while trying to find her sister.<br /><br />"Bite Me" could easily have been derivative of "Buffy", but Parker Blue gives Val a fresh voice, interesting situations thanks to Lola and the book in general is just a fun read. I definitely recommend this book as a "great read" and look forward to the next in the series.<br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Reading" rel="tag">Reading</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-2729883465309771253?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-77612221120651409072008-11-02T17:49:00.001-08:002008-11-03T13:45:59.655-08:00Untamed: House of Night Book 4<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_IZmOnGtqS2s/SQ9ws7juduI/AAAAAAAAADQ/xnG0c7NWwbU/s1600-h/untamedcover.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 135px; height: 217px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_IZmOnGtqS2s/SQ9ws7juduI/AAAAAAAAADQ/xnG0c7NWwbU/s320/untamedcover.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264550406623491810" /></a><br />Admittedly, I completely forgot this was coming out, so I was really excited to see it at Barnes and Noble this weekend. I know my review of book three wasn't as positive as the first two, and I'm happy to say that this is not the case with book four. <br /><br />"Untamed" starts just a few days after the end of "Chosen". Zoey's friends are still angry with her, but that soon changes after Aphrodite has a horrible vision involving Zoey's death in two different scenarios- the first showing her being completely alone and frozen in fear. Zoey finally comes clean to her friends about what happened and why only she and Aphrodite were the only ones to know the truth (as Neferet can't read their minds). I was glad this was resolved early as I felt her friends were awfully quick to turn on her in the last book given all that they'd been through. <br /><br />Things escalate pretty quickly in this novel. It's clear that Zoey's world is quickly changing, between the new red fledglings and Aphrodite now turned human, but still blessed (or cursed as she feels at times) by visions. However, without those visions, it's clear that Zoey and her friends would never survive their time at the House of Night. Very dark forces are at work, and this novel is a little scarier and definitely darker than the three proceeding it. Zoey must hurry to decode an ancient prophecy that could mean the end of the world, figure out how Neferet is making the red fledglings and protect those she cares about, including her Grandmother, who is gets a little bigger part in this book (and I hope a bigger part still in books to come). <br /><br />I definitely recommend "Untamed" as a great read. The authors recommend this book for ages 16 and up for content matter and language.<br /><br />Buy this book shop at our Amazon.com <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/lassodmoondes-20/104-4305123-4563127?%5Fencoding=UTF8&node=1">"Great Reads" bookstore</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Reading" rel="tag">Reading</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-7761222112065140907?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-1404165029316882002008-10-29T10:15:00.000-07:002008-10-29T10:33:09.514-07:00The Gemma Doyle Trilogy- Libba Bray<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_IZmOnGtqS2s/SQieSYNpNSI/AAAAAAAAADI/FiA4EmiM0-A/s1600-h/gemmadoyle.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 145px; height: 217px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_IZmOnGtqS2s/SQieSYNpNSI/AAAAAAAAADI/FiA4EmiM0-A/s320/gemmadoyle.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262630203156935970" /></a><br />I just realized it's been over a month since I last posted, mostly due to the fact that we welcomed a new little reader to our family and I've been too tired to read (but he's cute, so I forgive him)! But I finally finished "The Gemma Doyle Trilogy" which includes "A Great and Terrible Beauty", "Rebel Angels" and "The Sweet Far Thing." Set in the late 1800s in Victorian England, the story is about Gemma Doyle, who while at market with her mother at their home in India, experiences a terrible vision that comes true- her mother seemingly committing suicide by stabbing herself with a knife. Barely able to grieve, Gemma is shipped off to Spence Academy for girls in England. It's there that Gemma learns she is the heir to a great power that allows her to visit the "realms" where the dead who don't pass on remain, along with mystical and magical creatures all with their own agendas where Gemma is concerned. But the power doesn't come without a price and Gemma soon finds out that she is in the middle of a war between two secret societies and only she has the power to stop it and save both worlds.<br /><br />I have to say I absolutely loved this trilogy. The juxtaposition of the Victorian era and being a teen-aged girl with incredible powers makes for a supremely interesting read in its own right, and the characters are all multi-faceted. Even those who at first seem nefarious and possibly evil all have many layers. Not one character is perfect in their good or evilness, including the heroine herself. Some are just victims of circumstance and others easily swayed. I absolutely recommend the trilogy as a great read- you won't be disappointed. It's a perfect blend of fantasy, history, mystery and forbidden romance. <br /><br />I'd also like to thank the folks at <a href="http://www.1datingsites.com/blog/2008/10/50-best-chick-lit-blogs/" target="_blank">1DatingSite</a> for adding us to their list of 50 Best Chick Lit Blogs!<br /><br />Reviews coming soon: Superior Saturday and Brisinger. <br /><br /><br />Buy this book shop at our Amazon.com <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/lassodmoondes-20/104-4305123-4563127?%5Fencoding=UTF8&node=1">"Great Reads" bookstore</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Reading" rel="tag">Reading</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-140416502931688200?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-32349289162541220162008-09-19T05:45:00.000-07:002008-09-19T05:47:44.498-07:00Brisinger Out at MidnightFor those fans of Christopher Paolini, his next novel in the Inheritance trilogy, Brisingr is being released today/tonight at midnight. Anyone going to a release party?<br /><br />Buy this book shop at our Amazon.com <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/lassodmoondes-20/104-4305123-4563127?%5Fencoding=UTF8&node=1">"Great Reads" bookstore</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Reading" rel="tag">Reading</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-3234928916254122016?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-14905082606231405932008-09-17T11:16:00.000-07:002008-09-20T08:37:43.880-07:002008 National Book FestivalIf you're in the Washington DC area you may be interested in the following press release:<br /><br /><br /><em>Washington, DC (PRWEB) August 13, 2008 -- The Library of Congress has added several new authors to the award-winning lineup for the 2008 National Book Festival, which will be held on the National Mall from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Sept. 27. <br /><br />Among the some 70 celebrated authors who will be participating in this year's event are early-childhood experts Ellen Birnbaum and Nancy Schulman, Michael Dobbs -- award-winning foreign correspondent for The Washington Post -- New York Times best-selling author Julie Morgenstern, and veteran journalist Cathy Scott. <br /><br />There have also been several additions to the popular Poetry pavilion, including Michael Lind, Molly Peacock, Jill Allyn Rosser and the recently announced new Poet Laureate, Kay Ryan. <br /><br />The introduction of new downloadable author podcasts, which are available free of charge through the Library's Web site or on iTunes, makes it possible for booklovers around the country to participate in the event. Interviews capturing their latest works and inspiration are available with Warren Brown, Joseph Bruchac, Sharon M. Draper, Arthur Frommer and Pauline Frommer, Jan Brett, Jon Scieszka, R.L. Stine and Kay Ryan. More podcasts with festival authors, illustrators and poets will be uploaded in the coming weeks. <br /><br />Other interactive features include event Webcasts, which will be made available this year and have been archived from previous festivals. The Library also will soon launch an updated version of the Young Readers' Online Toolkit to bring the festival into libraries, schools and homes across the country. <br /><br />You can find out more about this year's National Book Festival, interactive features, and the full list of participating authors, illustrators and poets by visiting www.loc.gov/bookfest. <br /><br />Don't forget to download and display the 2008 National Book Festival Poster in your home, school, local library and community (right click image to save to your desktop or print). <br /><br />SPECIAL NOTE: The Library has created a Web site for members of the media to download background materials, high-resolution images, video and audio sound bites, b-roll and other audiovisual resources, as well as to request interviews with participating authors. This information can be accessed via the Press Registration link. This release will be updated periodically. </em><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-1490508260623140593?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-46353793154073672172008-09-16T06:35:00.000-07:002008-09-16T06:47:50.348-07:00Moonstone: Book One, The Unbidden Magic Series, by Marilee Brothers<strong>New Author Spotlight:</strong><br /><br />15-year-old Allie Emerson has a lot on her plate. Her mom may or may not be sick (leaning toward the probably not), she lives in a trailer, deals with bullies and every day teen-age life. So when an electric zap and a fall awaken latent telekinetic abilities, she's a little freaked out. But matters get even worse when her spirit guide appears, a ghostly hippy who's a little out-there, and starts talking about a prophecy and her neighbor, the town "witch" gives her a moonstone pendant that apparently only Allie will be able to command.<br /><br />So now she's a witch, she's being hunted by a group seeking the moonstone and her new boyfriend is a former gang member who she may not be able to trust as he could very well be after her necklace as well. I have to say that initially, based on the synopsis I read, the book sounded formulaic: girl discovers powers, gets a magic item and is destined to save the world. And, while that might be the crux of the plot, it's the characters that make this first novel shine. The main characters are not who they seem to be on the surface and discovering and getting to know them is a real treat as they all struggle through a magic situation in a real world setting. I can't wait to see what happens next for Allie. <br /><br />I encourage you to pick up a copy today. It may not be available yet in your local bookstore, but can be purchased on amazon.com.<br /><br />Buy this book shop at our Amazon.com <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/lassodmoondes-20/104-4305123-4563127?%5Fencoding=UTF8&node=1">"Great Reads" bookstore</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Reading" rel="tag">Reading</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-4635379315407367217?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-53609262678896005952008-09-14T06:05:00.000-07:002008-09-14T06:08:56.104-07:00News From Wonderland (Frank Beddor's Version, That is)I received this e-mail and image from the LGW (Looking Glass Wars) Librarian and thought I would share:<br /><br /><em>WONDERLAND REVELATIONS<br /><br /><br />The Institute’s Colonel Barlow has recently returned from an <br />excavation site in the English county of Wiltshire approximately 3.2 <br />kilometers west of Amesbury and 13 kilometers north of Salisbury with <br />a major find. Pagan revelers discovered the site containing a cache <br />of art and artifacts during the past Summer Solstice. An art <br />historian trained in Frank Beddor’s Wonderland revelations that <br />recognized a water-damaged portrait as having originated during the <br />highly evolved Translucent Age of Queen Genevieve and King Nolan <br />contacted us.<br /><br />Now, after several months of painstaking restoration, we present for <br />your visual edification Queen Genevieve, King Nolan and the young <br />Princesses, Rose Redd and Genevieve as the family they were prior to <br />the matricide and civil war that would eventually lead to the Looking <br />Glass Wars.<br /><br />The discovery of this portrait comes at a critical juncture in Volume <br />2 of the parallel adventure of Royal Bodyguard Hatter Madigan whose <br />early history included a rescue of the Heart Princesses from a failed <br />power play concocted by the Queen of Diamonds.<br /><br />It seems that moment-by-moment, the pieces of the puzzle continue to <br />accumulate leading us on to even greater Wonderland revelations. <br />Restoration is continuing on the three other paintings also <br />discovered at this excavation site and each will be forwarded as soon <br />as possible to be added to your Revelation Gallery.</em><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_IZmOnGtqS2s/SM0Mt-zwb1I/AAAAAAAAACg/edBbaW5MP0s/s1600-h/Hearts_002%5B1%5D.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_IZmOnGtqS2s/SM0Mt-zwb1I/AAAAAAAAACg/edBbaW5MP0s/s320/Hearts_002%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245863125050224466" /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-5360926267889600595?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-22526694353680625882008-08-26T16:53:00.000-07:002008-08-26T17:06:17.056-07:00PlayAways- A New Audiobook Device<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_IZmOnGtqS2s/SLSaaOGpd6I/AAAAAAAAACU/F8ZpyQ4s9bM/s1600-h/aliceplayaway.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_IZmOnGtqS2s/SLSaaOGpd6I/AAAAAAAAACU/F8ZpyQ4s9bM/s200/aliceplayaway.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238982041791985570" /></a><br />My sister-in-law recently discovered PlayAway audiobooks at her local library and shared her discovery with me this past weekend. I had never seen anything like it before- it looks like a little Ipod player and is pre-loaded with one audio book. You can purchase them at the Playway website (prices are comparable, if not better, than CDs or tapes). They've been around for a couple of years (so either they're just catching on, or I'm out of the loop), but I think this might be the year it really takes off, given the fervor around Ipods and other MP3 players as of late. There are 100s of titles available- including bestselling authors like John Grisham, Nora Roberts- heck, they've even got Star Wars on a playaway. If you do decide to purchase them, be sure to sign up for their rewards program called Replay.<br /><br />So check out the website- <a href="http://store.playawaydigital.com/">www.playaway.com</a> and mention it to your local library if they aren't yet available. You'll be glad you did.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Reading" rel="tag">Reading</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-2252669435368062588?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-26167320771255652012008-08-25T07:40:00.000-07:002008-08-25T08:00:12.731-07:00"Fairest" by Gail Carson LevineI'm a huge fan of Gail Carson Levine, and I certainly was not disappointed by "Fairest". Set in the same world as "Ella Enchanted", "Fairest" is the story of Aza, who, while not classically beautiful (and in fact is considered ugly by most) has an incredible gift of song and the ability to mimic others and throw her voice. In Aza's world, there are two things that are prized above all else, the ability to sing and being beautiful. Most look past her as she's not considered beautiful, but those that know her, love her. Aza's gift and winning personality eventually take her from her adoptive parents inn to the palace, where the new queen Ivi, who can barely sing, catches Aza throwing her voice one day (which Aza calls Illusing) and convinces Aza to sing for her, by threatening her and her family.<br /><br />Aza begins to detest the queen, but knows she has no choice but to continue to deceive not only the court but Ijori the prince, who seems not to notice Aza's "ugliness" and has quickly become a good friend (and of course, a romantic interest). When the king is injured, things go from bad to worse. Ivi starts making changes that throw the court and kingdom into a panic and it's all Aza can do to stay out of trouble (which quickly proves impossible). <br /><br />Levine takes the story of Snow White and give it an interesting twist. In fact, when ready Aza's description of herself, I couldn't help but picture the Disney cartoon version a bit (which was probably intentional) even though she describes herself as being ugly (skin is too pale, face too wide, hair to dark and flat). I love how Levine also takes the proverb "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder" to heart. As beauty is subjective, it's great to see how others perceive Aza. I definitely recommend this to fairy tale fans, and fans of Gail Carson Levine- you won't be disappointed. And, as a side note, if you've seen "Ella Enchanted" the movie, but haven't read the book- I encourage you to do so. The book was FAR better than the movie.<br /><br /><br />Buy this book shop at our Amazon.com <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/lassodmoondes-20/104-4305123-4563127?%5Fencoding=UTF8&node=1">"Great Reads" bookstore</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Reading" rel="tag">Reading</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-2616732077125565201?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-76519345616445952022008-08-20T08:42:00.000-07:002008-08-20T08:52:27.049-07:00Finally Some News About Wicked: Book 5It's been a long time coming, but there's finally some news on Nancy Holder's "Wicked: Book 5". According to Nancy Holder's website, they are turning it in to their editor's on October 1st. If it doesn't need too much in the way of editing, it might be out early next year (this is speculation on my part).<br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Reading" rel="tag">Reading</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-7651934561644595202?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-61861939943570379552008-08-18T17:21:00.001-07:002008-08-18T17:37:02.743-07:00"Twilight" the Movie Gets a New Release Datethanks to WB moving "Half-Blood Prince" until next July, "Twilight" is getting moved to November 21st. According to reports from Comic-Con, both Meyers and the director, Catherine Hardwicke, have both expressed hopes that "New Moon" and the other sequels will also be made into movies (though Meyer told MTV that "Breaking Dawn" should be two movies). There are rumors "New Moon" has already been optioned by Summit Entertainment, which I wouldn't be surprised if it were true.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Twilight" rel="tag">Twilight</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-6186193994357037955?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-21969587785956202922008-08-15T08:03:00.001-07:002008-08-15T08:08:27.066-07:00"Half-Blood Prince" Film DelayedAccording to an article from Wenn.com on the Internet Movie Database, Warner Bros. has decided to hold off on releasing "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" to next July. According to them, the writer's strike caused (obvious) delays and apparently there's more money to be made by waiting until next summer. I can't imagine that it really would make a difference- either you're going to see it in the theater or you aren't-time of year isn't going to make a difference. But I know I'm not happy having to wait until next July.<br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Half+Blood+Prince+Movie" rel="tag">Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-2196958778595620292?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-51668677720084848232008-08-12T17:32:00.000-07:002008-08-12T17:43:39.783-07:00Stephanie Meyer InterviewLooking for a little insight into "Breaking Dawn"? Check out this <a href="http://www.ew.com/ew/video/exclusives?lineupId=1155151521&videoId=1717903074">EW.com </a> interview. Meyer's discusses Jacob's imprinting, the name Renesmee, and how Bella manages not to go feral among other things.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Breaking+Dawn" rel="tag">Breaking Dawn</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Stephenie+Meyer" rel="tag">Stephenie Meyer</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Reading" rel="tag">Reading</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-5166867772008484823?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-29927217540159162742008-08-03T06:49:00.000-07:002008-08-03T08:01:27.393-07:00Breaking Dawn: Stephenie Meyer, The Review- NO SpoilersWell, a review, yes, synopsis no. Honestly, to say anything about the plot other than everything gets resolved in one way or the other would be giving too much away. This final book of the Twilight Saga is probably better than the middle two put together, almost as good as all three put together. The writing is at times visceral, heart-wrenching and nearly perfect. No matter what team you're routing for (Team Edward or Team Jacob), you'll most likely end up happy (again, can't say why). But I do want to say that Meyer has outdone herself with "Breaking Dawn" and while I'm sad to see the saga come to an end, I look forward to seeing what's next. Meyer has a way of making an ending, no matter what it is, seem completely plausible, and leave you going, of course, that's how it had to end, that's how it had to happen.<br /><br />Get it now. Read it fast. It's a TREMENDOUS, great read. LOVED IT, loved it loved it. In fact, I'm already re-reading, less than 12 hours after finishing. It's THAT good.<br /><br /><br />ETA: <br />I'm coming back to add that I see there are some fans that absolutely aren't loving the book and are bothered by what happens with Jacob at the end. I was at first too, and then I remembered a previous discussion about what it's like for other werewolves when this happens. It's not a "love" thing- it's more parental at first. Sorry to be so obstuse about it- but I really don't want to spoil anything for those who haven't finished yet but are reading early reviews.<br /><br /><br />Buy this book shop at our Amazon.com <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/lassodmoondes-20/104-4305123-4563127?%5Fencoding=UTF8&node=1">"Great Reads" bookstore</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Reading" rel="tag">Reading</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-2992721754015916274?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-61443801735206615282008-07-30T17:11:00.000-07:002008-07-30T17:34:19.271-07:00The Princess and the Hound by Mette Ivie Harrison<a href="http://bp0.blogger.com/_IZmOnGtqS2s/SJEHsPzV0qI/AAAAAAAAAB4/iJTM_R4ng2E/s1600-h/princesshoundcover.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://bp0.blogger.com/_IZmOnGtqS2s/SJEHsPzV0qI/AAAAAAAAAB4/iJTM_R4ng2E/s200/princesshoundcover.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228969099091366562" /></a><br />"The Princess and the Hound" is the story of Prince George, who secretly possesses the gift of talking to animals. Animal Magic has long since been punishable by death in George's kingdom, and those discovered to possess it are burned. But George learns early on from his mother, who also possesses the gift, that he must keep it a secret and consequently doesn't let anyone get close to him. <br /><br />George agrees to marry the princess of the neighboring kingdom to help keep the peace, and goes to meet her for the first time. The reception he gets from Princess Beatrice is cool to say the least (she has her own set of problems, most of which stemming from her verbally abusive father among other things), but George is intrigued by Princess Beatrice who is deeply devoted to her wild hound, Marit. The two have not parted since they encountered each other five years previously. At first, George thinks Beatrice might have animal magic as well, but soon realizes there's something else going on. In an effort to gain Beatrice's trust, he tells her of his abilities. Beatrice agrees to keep his secret, and the two slowly begin a tentative friendship.<br /><br />Both George and Beatrice are fascinating characters, and their stories drive the narrative. It's interesting, because there were times that I really didn't care for Beatrice, but then she'd have this connection with her hound that made me like her. Sort of one of those, "well, if my dog likes you, you must be okay" kind of situations. <br /><br />I highly recommend this book, especially if you love fairy tales that aren't dumbed down to "and they lived happily ever after." The characters earn their "happy" ending (which is really a beginning), as each comes to know and trust the other, despite their secrets.<br /><br /><br />Buy this book shop at our Amazon.com <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/lassodmoondes-20/104-4305123-4563127?%5Fencoding=UTF8&node=1">"Great Reads" bookstore</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Reading" rel="tag">Reading</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-6144380173520661528?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-52911161580933811132008-07-24T16:21:00.000-07:002008-07-24T16:36:55.137-07:00Southern Vampires Coming Soon to a TV Near You<a href="http://bp2.blogger.com/_IZmOnGtqS2s/SIkPxCoThOI/AAAAAAAAABw/RVtWbJMiQhY/s1600-h/trubloodposter.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://bp2.blogger.com/_IZmOnGtqS2s/SIkPxCoThOI/AAAAAAAAABw/RVtWbJMiQhY/s200/trubloodposter.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226726177734100194" /></a><br />For fans of Charlaine Harris' "Southern Vampire" tales, you might already know about this...but maybe not. Renamed "True Blood", the TV series is set to hit HBO this fall. Anna Paquin ("X-men") will play Sookie Stackhouse. There's some goodies to be found over at the <a href="http://www.hbo.com/events/trueblood/">HBO site</a>. For a funny, and yet slightly disturbing commercial for TruBlood, check out the <a href="http://www.trubeverage.com/">TruBlood website</a>.<br /> While I can almost guarantee this show will not be for younger viewers, my guess is that it will be ok for older teens- but double check with your parents first as the books often contain some adult subject matter and I haven't personally yet seen the show to give my parental two cents (and as I'm not a parent to any but my own, always check with your parental units- don't get me in trouble!)<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Reading" rel="tag">Reading</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-5291116158093381113?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29819579.post-62502893409367753322008-07-18T16:28:00.000-07:002008-07-18T18:53:26.267-07:00House of Night Book 4- Title and Release DateBook Four of the "House of Night" series is called "Untamed" and will be released, according to amazon.com on Sept. 23rd.<br /><br />Here's the info from amazon: "Life sucks when your friends are pissed at you. Just ask Zoey Redbird – she’s become an expert on suckiness. In one week she has gone from having three boyfriends to having none, and from having a close group of friends who trusted and supported her, to being an outcast. Speaking of friends, the only two Zoey has left are undead and unMarked. And Neferet has declared war on humans, which Zoey knows in her heart is wrong. But will anyone listen to her? Zoey's adventures at vampyre finishing school take a wild and dangerous turn as loyalties are tested, shocking true intentions come to light, and an ancient evil is awakened in PC and Kristin Cast's spellbinding fourth House of Night novel."<br /><br />Doesn't say <em>final</em> novel, so I guess it won't end here. But I hope this particular story line does.<br /><br /><br />Buy this book shop at our Amazon.com <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/lassodmoondes-20/104-4305123-4563127?%5Fencoding=UTF8&node=1">"Great Reads" bookstore</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Books" rel="tag">Books</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Book" rel="tag">Book</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Teens" rel="tag">Teens</a> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Reading" rel="tag">Reading</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-1932661768888884"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; google_ad_format = "468x15_0ads_al"; google_ad_channel ="0347098384"; google_color_border = "000000"; google_color_bg = "FFFFCC"; google_color_link = "660000"; google_color_text = "000000"; google_color_url = "008000"; //--></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/29819579-6250289340936775332?l=great-reads.blogspot.com'/></div>AKA Delaneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05712265717649978844noreply@blogger.com0