Starred Review. Arguably the most famous rulers in world history, Tudor monarchs Henry VIII and his daughter Elizabeth I were, according to journalist and author Meyer (A World Undone), cold and ruthless egotis[ts] whose self-created myths have prevailed over reality in our historical memory of them. Henry VII, the first Tudor, was a competent ruler who filled the royal treasury with gold, avoided war, and shrewdly consolidated his power by stripping away the nobility's autonomy. By contrast, Henry VIII's determination to enforce his religious change on his people led to a reign of terror, and his squandering of his riches contributed to the monarchy's later collapse under Charles I. His children fared little better, from the fervently evangelical boy-king Edward VI to the fanatically Catholic Mary, England's first woman ruler, who burned 300 of her subjects for heresy. Elizabeth is portrayed as selfish to the point of childishness, aspiring only to preserve her life and her rule. History buffs will savor Meyer's cheeky, nuanced, and authoritative perspective on an entire dynasty, and his study brims with enriching background discussions, ranging from class structure and the medieval Catholic Church to the Tudor connection to Spanish royalty. 4-color inserts, 1 map. (Mar.)
~Publisher's Weekly
Although this book is intended for those new to the Tudors I wouldn't discount it if you've already been enmeshed in their lives. Included in the book are all of the Tudors, starting from Henry VII all the way to Elizabeth I. Not only does Meyer talk about each reign but he includes a variety of additional information in the "Background" section at the "end" of each chapter. These backgrounds are, in fact, small chapters by themselves that provide readers with the information needed to understand more about what they just read. This was a great book but very dense, it took me quite some time to read it.
I originally went into this book thinking it was going to be a novel, as did my husband who bought it for me. I'm am extremely glad that it was nonfiction though. It gave me more information about another obsession I have and rekindled a long dormant fire. Meyer's tone was academic yet inviting and I rarely got bored, although the beginning was a bit slow but that was probably because I was expecting something else.
Would I recommend this? Yes, definitely. It may be a bit much if you don't like British history - or history in general - but if you like romance, scandal, history, war, life, death, and tyrannical kings and queens then this book is for you. It's not an overnight read but it is definitely worth the reading.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Fablehaven Series by Brandon Mull
Fablehaven is a novel series written by Brandon Mull. Its name comes from the Fablehaven Fantasy Preserve, which it depicts within its pages. The Fantasy Preserve acts much like a nature preserve protecting the creatures of myth and legend from the outside world. It is a sanctuary protected by a contract of rules which each creature inside must abide by. The most common rules are focused upon "the law of the harvest" and "the law of retribution." The book mainly displays the latter, as the characters can often be found agitating the creatures within, thus allowing retribution to occur against them. If they physically harm a creature, the creature may physically retaliate. If they use magic, magic may be used against them. The Fablehaven books are published by Shadow Mountain, a division of Deseret Books, which is owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Shadow Mountain children's publishing director Chris Schoebinger commissioned the series as a response to the popularity of Harry Potter books among Mormon youth. -http://www.bookrags.com/wiki/Fablehaven
I started reading the Fablehaven Series last year and finally finished. It's kind of sad but the series feels complete if that makes sense. I've read several fantasy series both created for adults and children and this is one that ranks at the top of the list for me. The characters, both human and otherwise, were believable and had dimension. They grew and developed just as real people would. The problems they encountered remained in the fantasy realm but it felt as if it could happen. If someone drove me to Fablehaven and said "Those stories were actually non-fiction" I wouldn't be surprised.
It's difficult to pick a favorite character because they all had traits that I could understand and connect with. Each had to deal with problems that they had to sort out themselves but at the same time they depended on each other just as family and friends should. They were confronted with difficult decisions and life altering experiences and they handled them in a believable fashion. The preserve and its inhabitants was also extremely believable. I could envision each species and felt that they were presented in a way that made sense. It was nice that there wasn't any one character that was all-powerful although there were some that were very powerful. It helped to show that although the way may be problematic or difficult nothing is impossible.
When Gwen is older I plan on reading this series with her and talking about its implications. I was a bit surprised that this series was commissioned in response to the success of Harry Potter but I would say that I enjoyed Fablehaven as much as I did Harry Potter. Great read!
I started reading the Fablehaven Series last year and finally finished. It's kind of sad but the series feels complete if that makes sense. I've read several fantasy series both created for adults and children and this is one that ranks at the top of the list for me. The characters, both human and otherwise, were believable and had dimension. They grew and developed just as real people would. The problems they encountered remained in the fantasy realm but it felt as if it could happen. If someone drove me to Fablehaven and said "Those stories were actually non-fiction" I wouldn't be surprised.
It's difficult to pick a favorite character because they all had traits that I could understand and connect with. Each had to deal with problems that they had to sort out themselves but at the same time they depended on each other just as family and friends should. They were confronted with difficult decisions and life altering experiences and they handled them in a believable fashion. The preserve and its inhabitants was also extremely believable. I could envision each species and felt that they were presented in a way that made sense. It was nice that there wasn't any one character that was all-powerful although there were some that were very powerful. It helped to show that although the way may be problematic or difficult nothing is impossible.
When Gwen is older I plan on reading this series with her and talking about its implications. I was a bit surprised that this series was commissioned in response to the success of Harry Potter but I would say that I enjoyed Fablehaven as much as I did Harry Potter. Great read!
Monday, May 16, 2011
Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians by Brandon Sanderson
Praise for Alcatraz Versus the Evil Librarians: "Sanderson unexpectedly draws everything together in an extravagantly silly climax. Readers whose sense of humor runs toward the subversive will be instantly captivated. Like Lemony Snicket and superhero comics rolled into one (and then revved up on steroids), this nutty novel… is also sure to win passionate fans." -Publishers Weekly, starred review
"This is an excellent choice to read aloud to the whole family. It's funny, exciting, and briskly paced. Best of all, the message it gives young readers is that a person's flaws- being late, breaking things, etc.-can sometimes turn into useful talents." -Nancy Pearl, National Public Radio
"The conventional trappings of the middle-school fantasy get turned upside down in this zany novel… The adventures are engaging as well as silly. Readers who prefer fantasy with plenty of humor should enjoy entering Alcatraz's strange but amusing world." -School Library Journal
So I think I'm too old to read this book. I love Brandon Sanderson but I was left a little disappointed when I read it. I think it's fantastic for kids around ten years old because it has adventure, a fun character, an interesting plot, magic, etc but for older readers it left me wanting. I guess my biggest issue was that I didn't like how the narrator (Alcatraz) kept interjecting his thoughts and disrupting the flow of the story. Someone once compared it to Lemony Snicket and I didn't like those either so maybe it's just they writing style. Not my favorite by a long shot. I'll be honest, I'll probably buy the book because I'm a HUGE Sanderson fan but I'll only read it if my daughter wants me to read it to her at bed time. I was honestly left very disappointed and would much rather concentrate my reading efforts (for both myself & my daughter) on something else.
"This is an excellent choice to read aloud to the whole family. It's funny, exciting, and briskly paced. Best of all, the message it gives young readers is that a person's flaws- being late, breaking things, etc.-can sometimes turn into useful talents." -Nancy Pearl, National Public Radio
"The conventional trappings of the middle-school fantasy get turned upside down in this zany novel… The adventures are engaging as well as silly. Readers who prefer fantasy with plenty of humor should enjoy entering Alcatraz's strange but amusing world." -School Library Journal
So I think I'm too old to read this book. I love Brandon Sanderson but I was left a little disappointed when I read it. I think it's fantastic for kids around ten years old because it has adventure, a fun character, an interesting plot, magic, etc but for older readers it left me wanting. I guess my biggest issue was that I didn't like how the narrator (Alcatraz) kept interjecting his thoughts and disrupting the flow of the story. Someone once compared it to Lemony Snicket and I didn't like those either so maybe it's just they writing style. Not my favorite by a long shot. I'll be honest, I'll probably buy the book because I'm a HUGE Sanderson fan but I'll only read it if my daughter wants me to read it to her at bed time. I was honestly left very disappointed and would much rather concentrate my reading efforts (for both myself & my daughter) on something else.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Being Adopted: The Life-Long Search for Self by David M. Brodzinsky, M. Schechter, and R. Henig
Like Passages, this groundbreaking book uses the poignant, powerful voices of adoptees and adoptive parents to explore the experience of adoption and its lifelong effects. A major work, filled with astute analysis and moving truths. http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/92304.Being_Adopted
I was so surprised when I found this at my local library but immediately decided to check it out. This is a great and informative piece of non-fiction that anyone who is involved in adoption should read. This book addresses each phase of life step-by-step and shows not only how biological children react but also the reactions of adopted children. If you are interested in learning what your child may go through between birth and death (assuming they die of old age) then this book is for you.
My daughter is adopted and so this was extremely important for me to read. Although the book barely addresses transracial adoption I was given a lot of very good insights into what she will probably experience. I feel a bit more prepared as she enters school and the questions and personal dilemmas she may face crop up. The only thing I would have liked would be more information on how kids adopted by parents outside their race face life and what additional identity issues they may go through.
This really was quite interesting and I would highly recommend it to pretty much anyone.
I was so surprised when I found this at my local library but immediately decided to check it out. This is a great and informative piece of non-fiction that anyone who is involved in adoption should read. This book addresses each phase of life step-by-step and shows not only how biological children react but also the reactions of adopted children. If you are interested in learning what your child may go through between birth and death (assuming they die of old age) then this book is for you.
My daughter is adopted and so this was extremely important for me to read. Although the book barely addresses transracial adoption I was given a lot of very good insights into what she will probably experience. I feel a bit more prepared as she enters school and the questions and personal dilemmas she may face crop up. The only thing I would have liked would be more information on how kids adopted by parents outside their race face life and what additional identity issues they may go through.
This really was quite interesting and I would highly recommend it to pretty much anyone.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
The Count of Monte Cristo is Alexandre Dumas's riveting tale of romantic rivalries, struggles for power, daring escapes, clever disguises, buried treasure, and solemn promises. What more could an adventurous reader desire? Dumas's hero Edmond Dantes is a man on a mission, tasked with delivering a letter whose contents he does not know, but whose impact, when discovered by the wrong man, could be deadly. Thrown into a dangerous chain of events, Dantes must face his fate alone, forced to rely on his wits, courage, and a strong dose of good luck as he seeks justice against those whose greed and wickedness nearly cost him his life. ~http://www.dailylit.com/books/count-of-monte-cristo
Honestly, how can you go wrong with this book. It has got to be one of the best books I've ever read. Before reading it my favorite 'classic' was Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen but this book quickly and solidly has taken the top spot. It is impossible to compare the book and the movie though so if you've seen the movie and feel like that's enough let me just say "No...it's not." While the movie is quite good the ending is very different. The movie appeals to the feel-good-ending movie industry while the book takes a real look at what could and would truly happen. I don't dare say more though because I desperately want you to read this book.
When purchasing or checking out this book you may look at it and hesitate because it is so thick but I read it in two sittings. One was a lay-over at the airport going to my destination and the other was on the plane coming back. Dumas sucks you into Dantes' life and troubles. You feel for him and want him to achieve his revenge and make those who hurt him suffer. In many ways I think we each wish we could exact this kind of justice upon someone who has done us wrong. Some of us lack the money, others it's the lack of imagination, and yet others don't feel revenge is the best route. Rarely does revenge make us feel better at the sight of another's downfall but for some reason it truly works in this book. I definitely need to re-read this book. It is a classic among classics.
Honestly, how can you go wrong with this book. It has got to be one of the best books I've ever read. Before reading it my favorite 'classic' was Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen but this book quickly and solidly has taken the top spot. It is impossible to compare the book and the movie though so if you've seen the movie and feel like that's enough let me just say "No...it's not." While the movie is quite good the ending is very different. The movie appeals to the feel-good-ending movie industry while the book takes a real look at what could and would truly happen. I don't dare say more though because I desperately want you to read this book.
When purchasing or checking out this book you may look at it and hesitate because it is so thick but I read it in two sittings. One was a lay-over at the airport going to my destination and the other was on the plane coming back. Dumas sucks you into Dantes' life and troubles. You feel for him and want him to achieve his revenge and make those who hurt him suffer. In many ways I think we each wish we could exact this kind of justice upon someone who has done us wrong. Some of us lack the money, others it's the lack of imagination, and yet others don't feel revenge is the best route. Rarely does revenge make us feel better at the sight of another's downfall but for some reason it truly works in this book. I definitely need to re-read this book. It is a classic among classics.
Foe by J.M Coetzee
''T HE Life and Strange Surprizing Adventures of Robinson Crusoe, of York, Mariner'' was published on April 25, 1719. The author of the book was Daniel Defoe or, to revert to his given name, Daniel Foe. In ''Foe'' J. M. Coetzee has written a superb novel by reconsidering the events of ''Robinson Crusoe'' and presenting them from a new point of view. He may have been impressed by Jean Rhys's conversion of ''Jane Eyre'' into ''Wide Sargasso Sea'' or by other experiments in displacing an official perspective." ~The New York Times
This book threw me for a loop. I read it several years ago and have not been able to get it out of my head since. In my 'Book Lust' journal (a book that I used to keep a brief impression of books I read) it says: "Really good. I'm missing something and feel like I should read it again. A 'heavy' read. It was hard to get used to the writing but I will definitely read it again." I tried (unsuccessfully) to have several of my friends read this book so that I could talk to them about it. I'm unsure why they never finished (or perhaps started) it but I encourage you to read it. Once you do please let me know what you think. After revisiting my thoughts on this I think I may just re-read it...if someone else will too so that I can talk to them about it.
This book threw me for a loop. I read it several years ago and have not been able to get it out of my head since. In my 'Book Lust' journal (a book that I used to keep a brief impression of books I read) it says: "Really good. I'm missing something and feel like I should read it again. A 'heavy' read. It was hard to get used to the writing but I will definitely read it again." I tried (unsuccessfully) to have several of my friends read this book so that I could talk to them about it. I'm unsure why they never finished (or perhaps started) it but I encourage you to read it. Once you do please let me know what you think. After revisiting my thoughts on this I think I may just re-read it...if someone else will too so that I can talk to them about it.
1001 Ways To Be Romantic by Gregory Godek
Amazon.com Review
Gregory J.P. Godek--dubbed America's Romance Coach--offers "1001 creative, sexy, loving tips and ideas" in the fifth anniversary edition of 1001 Ways to Be Romantic. Packed with advice, from "Little Things That Mean a Lot" to "The Mindset of a Romantic" and "Making Beautiful Music Together," Godek's straightforward approach is perfect for those new to romance or those needing a refresher course in the art of love. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Review
"Greg Godek should be nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for teaching 1001 Ways to Be Romantic." -- Boston Magazine"Greg is helping millions of us to better understand our most important value-- love." -- Mark Victor Hansen, co-author Chicken Soup for the Soul
"Worth memorizing." -- Boston Herald
I would honestly have to agree with all of these reviews. I couldn't decide which one to include so because they are all so pertinent to this book. If you are romantic, want to be romantic, have a spouse who needs to be romantic then this is the book for you. It's written as a list and gives ideas on ways to show your spouse that you are thinking of them. Some ideas are simple like #161 "Learn your partner's 'hot buttons' - and vow to never hit them" or #587 "Songs that celebrate love and marriage. Make a tape (or play list) for your anniversary, a birthday or just to celebrate your love next Tuesday" Next is a list of songs you could use. They are also elaborate or expensive like #886 "The most romantic restaurant in Vienna: Steirereck" He also includes websites and tourist numbers to several countries in the margin on this page. He also includes themes, for example #503 "The Gift: Costume Jewelry. The Note: 'The diamond is fake - but the love is real.' The Song: 'Diamond Girl,' by Seals & Crofts.
Godek offers a variety of other books to help inspire the romantic in you including 10,000 ways to say 'I Love You' and Romantic Mischief: The Playful Side of Love. An awesome and fun book. We own several that he has written and I've read through each of them a minimum of once...most of them at least twice. I'm on the third reading of this book. A must-have if you want to keep the spark alive in your relationship.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by Jane Austen & Seth Grahame-Smith
Summary:Pride and Prejudice and Zombies — Pride and Prejudice and Zombies features the original text of Jane Austen's beloved novel with all-new scenes of bone-crunching zombie action. As our story opens, a mysterious plague has fallen upon the quiet English village of Meryton—and the dead are returning to life! Feisty heroine Elizabeth Bennet is determined to wipe out the zombie menace, but she's soon distracted by the arrival of the haughty and arrogant Mr. Darcy. What ensues is a delightful comedy of manners with plenty of civilized sparring between the two young lovers—and even more violent sparring on the blood-soaked battlefield as Elizabeth wages war against hordes of flesh-eating undead. Complete with 20 illustrations in the style of C. E. Brock (the original illustrator of Pride and Prejudice), this insanely funny expanded edition will introduce Jane Austen's classic novel to new legions of fans. ~http://io9.com/#!5144913/mr-darcys-brains-taste-foul-in-my-undead-mouth
If you look to the right you'll notice this title is actually missing from the "Books I've Read" section of my blog. Why? Because I started it, got half way and couldn't handle it anymore. Normally I wouldn't write about something I didn't finish but I feel it's only fair to share my opinion about this very popular best seller. You can certainly guess what I thought about it since I didn't finish it but I will go ahead and tell you...just in case you were wondering. I didn't like it at all. The beginning was okay, I guess, but it didn't improve. I put it down for a few days and realized I had no intention of finishing it. Apparently my reaction is common among those who thoroughly enjoy the original "Pride & Prejudice" by Jane Austen. When I returned it to the library the librarian asked me about it and I was honest, he said that was the major reaction to it but he also indicated that those who hadn't read the classic enjoyed the book a lot more. I can believe that.
So...why did I not like it? I was mostly annoyed at some of the character traits that Seth Grahame-Smith changed. I also didn't really like some of the random zombie violence. I get the need for zombie violence in a book about zombies but it was a tad over done and detracted from the book. I think the idea of including the supernatural in classic is an intriguing idea but I do not think that the author achieved that purpose. I was told about another book he's done regarding Abraham Lincoln that was more successful but I highly doubt I'll be reading it. I think I'll leave the classics...as classics.
What did you think? If you enjoyed it please, please explain it to me. :)
If you look to the right you'll notice this title is actually missing from the "Books I've Read" section of my blog. Why? Because I started it, got half way and couldn't handle it anymore. Normally I wouldn't write about something I didn't finish but I feel it's only fair to share my opinion about this very popular best seller. You can certainly guess what I thought about it since I didn't finish it but I will go ahead and tell you...just in case you were wondering. I didn't like it at all. The beginning was okay, I guess, but it didn't improve. I put it down for a few days and realized I had no intention of finishing it. Apparently my reaction is common among those who thoroughly enjoy the original "Pride & Prejudice" by Jane Austen. When I returned it to the library the librarian asked me about it and I was honest, he said that was the major reaction to it but he also indicated that those who hadn't read the classic enjoyed the book a lot more. I can believe that.
So...why did I not like it? I was mostly annoyed at some of the character traits that Seth Grahame-Smith changed. I also didn't really like some of the random zombie violence. I get the need for zombie violence in a book about zombies but it was a tad over done and detracted from the book. I think the idea of including the supernatural in classic is an intriguing idea but I do not think that the author achieved that purpose. I was told about another book he's done regarding Abraham Lincoln that was more successful but I highly doubt I'll be reading it. I think I'll leave the classics...as classics.
What did you think? If you enjoyed it please, please explain it to me. :)
Sunday, March 27, 2011
House of Night Series (books 1-5) by P.C. Cast & Kristin Cast
"House of Night is a thrillingly engaging book series that follows 16-year-old Zoey Redbird, who gets “Marked” by a vampyre tracker and begins to undergo the “Change” into an actual vampyre. She has to leave her family in Tulsa and move into the House of Night, a boarding school for other fledglings like her.
It’s within the school’s walls that the heart of the action takes place as Zoey meets new friends, finds love, comes to terms with how her life will be different now and begins to realize her awesome new powers.
Here’s the deal though: Yes, Zoey’s a vampyre now. But she’s still a teenager – with all the humor, angst and confusing feelings any other teenager has." ~http://www.houseofnightseries.com/pages/overview.html
This summary is accurate and vague. The first two books were good, obviously or I wouldn't have continued. Books three and four were okay and by book five and six I didn't care. I actually started book six got about seventy-five pages in and realized that the characters annoyed me and I didn't care about their drama so I stopped and put it down. I returned it to the library unfinished (which I rarely do). I will probably revisit it later this year but we'll just have to see.
I can't say that the ideas involved were horribly new but pieces were different. All vampire (or vampyre) novels involve a 'Change' and this one was no different. Some involve it being lovely and easy, others indicate it is violent and painful. This takes a bit of both ideas and winds them together with a bit of a 'Harry Potter boarding school' twist. Taking a brief moment to compare this series (thus far) to Harry Potter I have to point out that HP is by far superior. The writing, ideas, etc but one aspect, the time line, was much more agreeable. In HP each book is a year in the school life of the main character, by book six in the House of Night series only two months had gone by. There was entirely too much drama for one person (supernatural or not) for that short a period. It would have been a tad more enjoyable had the time line been longer, at the point that I put the book down the characters had become way too melodramatic, foolish, one-sided, and unbelievable (in a bad way). The main character, Zoey, turned from a decent, fairly moral person to a complete ho...which I'm sure was the intent of the authors to show how difficult her life was. The only positive in her personality which remained throughout the series was loyalty to her Grandmother, her Goddess, and her friends.
If you choose to read even one of these books remember that it is for young 'adults'. Had it not been for the sexual nature of some of the scenes I would say it would be geared toward those around twelve or thirteen years old. It's simple minded, has a predictable plot, overly dramatic (I mean seriously, you really want us to believe all that happened in two months???), and finally the characters went from endearing to annoying in a very short time. Perhaps wait a month between each book as this might help with the annoyance factor. Should I finish the series I'll write an update about the last three books. At this point I would say skip it.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
hush, hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
Romance was not part of Nora Grey's plan. She's never been particularly attracted to the boys at her school, no matter how hard her best friend, Vee, pushes them at her. Not until Patch comes along. With his easy smile and eyes that seem to see inside her, Patch draws Nora to him against her better judgment.
But after a series of terrifying encounters, Nora's not sure whom to trust. Patch seems to be everywhere she is and seems to know more about her than her closest friends. She can't decide whether she should fall into his arms or run and hide. And when she tries to seek some answers, she finds herself near a truth that is way more unsettling than anything Patch makes her feel.
For she is right in the middle of an ancient battle between the immortal and those who have fallen -- and, when it comes to choosing sides, the wrong choice will cost Nora her life.~simonandschuster.com
What can I say? I'm a sucker for paranormal romances. Who could say "no" to something with a fallen angel? The first book in this trilogy/series was fun. I actually finished it in one day and was glad the library (which is around the corner) had the second one. Although based on the description the reader is already aware of Patch's status as fallen angel the main character, Nora, has no idea. This little tale is all about the bad boy, following your intuition, ignoring your intuition, and sacrificing it all for love. Not an entirely new plot but entertaining none-the-less. It was nice to read something decent that didn't have vampires, werewolves, or witches. It was definitely more geared toward young and I mean high school "adults". If you are looking for something super simple this might be up your alley but don't buy it, it's totally not worth it. Go visit your library, if for some reason they don't have it they can find it for you for little or no charge.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Elantris by Brandon Sanderson
"Elantris was beautiful, once. It was called the city of the gods: a place of power, radiance, and magic. Visitors say that the very stones glowed with an inner light, and that the city contained wondrous arcane marvels. At night, Elantris shone like a great silvery fire, visible even from a great distance.
Yet, as magnificent as Elantris had been,its inhabitants had been more so. Their hair a brilliant white, their skin an almost metallic silver, the Elantrians seemed to shine like the city itself. Legend claimed that they were immortal, or at least nearly so. Their bodies healed quickly, and they were blessed with great strength, insight, and speed. They could perform magics with a bare wave of the hand; men visited Elantris from all across Opelon to receive Elantrian healings, food, or wisdom. They were divinities.
And anyone could become one.
The Shaod, it was called. The Transformation. It struck randomly - usually at night, during the mysterious hours when life slowed to rest. The Shaod could take beggar, craftsman, nobleman, or warrior. When it came, the fortunate person's life ended and began anew; he would discard his old, mundane existence and move to Elantris. Elantris, where he could live in bliss, rule in wisdom, and be worshipped for eternity.
Eternity ended ten years ago." ~Back of Book
Yes. I finally did it. I'm commenting about a book by Brandon Sanderson, currently my favorite author. He found his way into my hands through a different book several years ago but this was his debut. This book allowed readers and critics a glimpse into the skilled and delightful storyteller he is. It's an interesting concept, humans becoming gods then those same gods becoming...repulsive, detested, reviled. They become a sort of undead creature. As humans they could be anything from a beggar on the street to royalty then suddenly they were gods and those humans left behind came to seek their help. Can you imagine it? I can't but some how Sanderson created the possibility and I believed him. What if that great blessing became a curse?
Suddenly, for no apparent reason, those who are hit with the Shaod (The Transformation) are "half done". They are undead with no need to eat but the hunger remains. They do not heal so a stubbed toe or paper cut could cause increasing agony to the point of madness. They are not longer beautiful but repulsive, their skin blotchy and blackish. Someone else who had read this book referred to them as zombies, at first I disagreed but upon reflection I can see the correlation. Undead creatures wandering a dead city. Horrifying.
Imaging being engaged to a normal person and then when you arrive for the wedding (you are from somewhere else, it's an arranged marriage but your excited about it) and to meet him for the first time you find out he's dead. What you don't realize is he's not dead but his parents would rather he was because he's been taken by the Shaod and deposited into Elantris where all those creatures are held, imprisoned.
Sanderson doesn't stop there. He also incorporates a holy war. Just as in our day and our world religions dot the earth and just like always each believes that theirs is the only one that is incorruptible. Throughout our history countries have gone to war in the name of God. Sanderson's world is exactly the same but determining who are the good guys and who are the bad guys is a full-time job. Throughout the novel you are given a glimpse into three main characters: Raoden (the crown prince), Sarene (his betrothed), and Hrathen (Fjordell high priest). Each looks at the world and at each other in a vastly unique way.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book and it gave me a lot to think about. It wasn't my favorite book by Sanderson as I found a few pieces of information that left me confused or wondering about. He has a knack for tieing up loose ends, but in this debut I was left wondering on a few minor things...a minor complaint given my experiences with other famous authors. This book begins a major theme seen in all of his books (minus his children books...which I haven't read yet) and while the theme is similar the way it is presented is different. I'll definitely be reading it again. A fun read for sure!
Yet, as magnificent as Elantris had been,its inhabitants had been more so. Their hair a brilliant white, their skin an almost metallic silver, the Elantrians seemed to shine like the city itself. Legend claimed that they were immortal, or at least nearly so. Their bodies healed quickly, and they were blessed with great strength, insight, and speed. They could perform magics with a bare wave of the hand; men visited Elantris from all across Opelon to receive Elantrian healings, food, or wisdom. They were divinities.
And anyone could become one.
The Shaod, it was called. The Transformation. It struck randomly - usually at night, during the mysterious hours when life slowed to rest. The Shaod could take beggar, craftsman, nobleman, or warrior. When it came, the fortunate person's life ended and began anew; he would discard his old, mundane existence and move to Elantris. Elantris, where he could live in bliss, rule in wisdom, and be worshipped for eternity.
Eternity ended ten years ago." ~Back of Book
Yes. I finally did it. I'm commenting about a book by Brandon Sanderson, currently my favorite author. He found his way into my hands through a different book several years ago but this was his debut. This book allowed readers and critics a glimpse into the skilled and delightful storyteller he is. It's an interesting concept, humans becoming gods then those same gods becoming...repulsive, detested, reviled. They become a sort of undead creature. As humans they could be anything from a beggar on the street to royalty then suddenly they were gods and those humans left behind came to seek their help. Can you imagine it? I can't but some how Sanderson created the possibility and I believed him. What if that great blessing became a curse?
Suddenly, for no apparent reason, those who are hit with the Shaod (The Transformation) are "half done". They are undead with no need to eat but the hunger remains. They do not heal so a stubbed toe or paper cut could cause increasing agony to the point of madness. They are not longer beautiful but repulsive, their skin blotchy and blackish. Someone else who had read this book referred to them as zombies, at first I disagreed but upon reflection I can see the correlation. Undead creatures wandering a dead city. Horrifying.
Imaging being engaged to a normal person and then when you arrive for the wedding (you are from somewhere else, it's an arranged marriage but your excited about it) and to meet him for the first time you find out he's dead. What you don't realize is he's not dead but his parents would rather he was because he's been taken by the Shaod and deposited into Elantris where all those creatures are held, imprisoned.
Sanderson doesn't stop there. He also incorporates a holy war. Just as in our day and our world religions dot the earth and just like always each believes that theirs is the only one that is incorruptible. Throughout our history countries have gone to war in the name of God. Sanderson's world is exactly the same but determining who are the good guys and who are the bad guys is a full-time job. Throughout the novel you are given a glimpse into three main characters: Raoden (the crown prince), Sarene (his betrothed), and Hrathen (Fjordell high priest). Each looks at the world and at each other in a vastly unique way.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book and it gave me a lot to think about. It wasn't my favorite book by Sanderson as I found a few pieces of information that left me confused or wondering about. He has a knack for tieing up loose ends, but in this debut I was left wondering on a few minor things...a minor complaint given my experiences with other famous authors. This book begins a major theme seen in all of his books (minus his children books...which I haven't read yet) and while the theme is similar the way it is presented is different. I'll definitely be reading it again. A fun read for sure!
Monday, March 7, 2011
A Place of Their Own by John Vickrey Van Cleve & Barry A. Crouch
"Using original sources, A Place of Their Own: Creating the Deaf Community in America" traces the history of deaf people in America. It views deafness not from the perspective of pathology, but of culture, not as a disease or a disability to be overcome, but as the distinguishing characteristic of a distinct community of individuals whose history and achievement are worthy of study. Focusing on the development of the American deaf community during the nineteenth century, "A Place of Their Own" brings history to bear on the reality of deafness and provides fresh and important insight into the lives of deaf Americans." -Back of the Book
I started this book thinking it was something else. I asked my husband about it and he recommended it and, considering the his job as an ASL Interpreter as well as a highly sought after presenter and teacher (for interpreters and ASL classes), so I decided to give it a go. This nonfiction work was quite an eye-opener. I had been aware of several aspects of Deaf History based on my ASL classes in college and my exposure to the Deaf Community as the wife of an interpreter but fully understanding the struggles they went through, and continue to go through, was somewhat surprising.
Many people in American culture view Alexander Graham Bell, the inventor of the telephone, as a great man. Indeed many people discuss in detail how amazing and insightful he was and I can't disagree if we are talking about some pieces of his life. Others, though, I would have to disagree with. Ironically Bell's mother was deaf and he married a deaf woman but he spent a large part of his life (after inventing the telephone - if I remember correctly) working to 'cure' deafness, undermining the community indicating that they were not intelligent enough to hold jobs other than those taught at residential or day schools. He spent time undermining the residential school system in an effort to seclude deaf individuals from others with deafness. When I look at this I can't help but wonder what he was so afraid of.
Like so many other cultures and minorities this book concentrates on their struggles. In many areas of the text they were compared to others who have been attacked with the sole purpose of eradication (Jews) or enslavement (Blacks). An interesting point that the authors pointed out was that unlike other minorities the Deaf would never be able to communicate in the native language of America (English). There are many who are oral (lip read), others who use American Sign Language (ASL), a combination of the two, as well as other methods of communication. But those that lip read only grasp at a low percentage (I think around 20%) of what is being said. Interpreters are used to ensure that the true message and intent is received and given.
This book was so interesting that I was annoyed at how it ended. One of the most successful protests by a minority group (in my opinion) was the Deaf President Now! protest/rally at Gallaudet University in Washington D.C. The university was over 100 years old, the only Deaf school of Higher Education in America (and the world?) yet it never had a deaf president. The students, faculty, and staff expressed their desire for a Deaf President but their request was ignored and a hearing woman with NO experience with the Deaf Community was hired. The protesters closed campus and refused to attend class, allow others on campus, etc. until their demands were met. Eventually they were and a Deaf president was hired (I. King Jordan). The reason I was annoyed by the ending is that it was so abrupt. They only gave a small preview of the rally and didn't talk to anything else that was going on at the time (late 1980s). The first printing was 1989 which explains a bit but the fifth printing was 1998...I mean seriously...couldn't they update the text? Give us more information?
This book is great if you are interested in history, minorities, pathology, Deaf Culture, America, American Universities, education etc. It addressed everything from some of the methods used to cure deafness (including puncturing the eardrum with a needle!), educating those that are deaf, creating a purely deaf State, organizations, American Sign Language (both the inception and the attack), the attempt to bar Deaf people from marrying other Deaf or at all, employment, and the brief view of the Deaf President Now! rally. I will definitely be reading more on this topic. I promise you'll be surprised at what you learn!
I started this book thinking it was something else. I asked my husband about it and he recommended it and, considering the his job as an ASL Interpreter as well as a highly sought after presenter and teacher (for interpreters and ASL classes), so I decided to give it a go. This nonfiction work was quite an eye-opener. I had been aware of several aspects of Deaf History based on my ASL classes in college and my exposure to the Deaf Community as the wife of an interpreter but fully understanding the struggles they went through, and continue to go through, was somewhat surprising.
Many people in American culture view Alexander Graham Bell, the inventor of the telephone, as a great man. Indeed many people discuss in detail how amazing and insightful he was and I can't disagree if we are talking about some pieces of his life. Others, though, I would have to disagree with. Ironically Bell's mother was deaf and he married a deaf woman but he spent a large part of his life (after inventing the telephone - if I remember correctly) working to 'cure' deafness, undermining the community indicating that they were not intelligent enough to hold jobs other than those taught at residential or day schools. He spent time undermining the residential school system in an effort to seclude deaf individuals from others with deafness. When I look at this I can't help but wonder what he was so afraid of.
Like so many other cultures and minorities this book concentrates on their struggles. In many areas of the text they were compared to others who have been attacked with the sole purpose of eradication (Jews) or enslavement (Blacks). An interesting point that the authors pointed out was that unlike other minorities the Deaf would never be able to communicate in the native language of America (English). There are many who are oral (lip read), others who use American Sign Language (ASL), a combination of the two, as well as other methods of communication. But those that lip read only grasp at a low percentage (I think around 20%) of what is being said. Interpreters are used to ensure that the true message and intent is received and given.
This book was so interesting that I was annoyed at how it ended. One of the most successful protests by a minority group (in my opinion) was the Deaf President Now! protest/rally at Gallaudet University in Washington D.C. The university was over 100 years old, the only Deaf school of Higher Education in America (and the world?) yet it never had a deaf president. The students, faculty, and staff expressed their desire for a Deaf President but their request was ignored and a hearing woman with NO experience with the Deaf Community was hired. The protesters closed campus and refused to attend class, allow others on campus, etc. until their demands were met. Eventually they were and a Deaf president was hired (I. King Jordan). The reason I was annoyed by the ending is that it was so abrupt. They only gave a small preview of the rally and didn't talk to anything else that was going on at the time (late 1980s). The first printing was 1989 which explains a bit but the fifth printing was 1998...I mean seriously...couldn't they update the text? Give us more information?
This book is great if you are interested in history, minorities, pathology, Deaf Culture, America, American Universities, education etc. It addressed everything from some of the methods used to cure deafness (including puncturing the eardrum with a needle!), educating those that are deaf, creating a purely deaf State, organizations, American Sign Language (both the inception and the attack), the attempt to bar Deaf people from marrying other Deaf or at all, employment, and the brief view of the Deaf President Now! rally. I will definitely be reading more on this topic. I promise you'll be surprised at what you learn!
Monday, February 28, 2011
A Girl of the Limberlost by Gene Stratton Porter
"The Limberlost is life...What I like is the excitement of choosing a path carefully, in the fear that the quagmire may reach out and suck me down; to go into the swamp naked-handed and wrest from it treasures that bring me books and clothing, and I like enough of a fight for things that I always remember how I get them." Back cover of the novel in Elnora's words.
Elnora is the main character in Gene Stratton Porter's novel that was recommended to me by my friend Harmony. I have to admit that I wasn't keen on reading it and it turned out to be different than I expected. I'm not sure I had very high expectations but in the end I'm certainly glad I read it. This novel was written about a girl in rural Indiana around the turn of the century. Elnora's father died when she was very young and the effect it had on her mother, Kate, has left a rift of misunderstanding floating between them. Kate doesn't understand why Elnora would want to attend high school and Elnora doesn't understand why her mother refuses to assist her in the necessary financial obligations.
Throughout the novel Elnora is given various hardships and is able to overcome them with imagination and poise. She has had an affinity for the things of the Limberlost, the natural life, and uses it to her advantage. This is definitely classic 'coming of age' tale reminiscent of Anne of Green Gables and Huckleberry Finn. The cast of characters come alive and you grow to love, hate, sympathize, or dread them. You worry about Elnora when it looks as if her innocence is in danger and you are proud of her when she stands up for herself, her way of life, and her relationship with the sickly yet dashing Philip Ammon. This story has all the elements of a fun read, it has adventure, romance, character growth and vivid details. Definitely worth your while.
After finishing it I came away with a strong desire to get to know my new home and all the natural splendors within it. I didn't want to collect butterflies or anything but I did want to reconnect with the natural world around me. Nature has so much to offer and in this day and age we have become too busy with our daily fast-paced lives to even notice. When was the last time you appreciated a sunset and the natural hues of red, purple, and pink; what about the lazy circling of a bird of prey as it hunts and spies its next meal; perhaps the scurrying of an army of ants as they busily go about the daily grind of ensuring their queen's health and happiness; or maybe the loving gaze of a long-time pet as he/she watches you in adoration as you sit quietly on the couch and read. Embrace the world that we have forgotten, beauty and surprise lie under every rock, in every tree, over any mountain and within the human body. No matter where you live whether in the 'cement jungle' or the backwoods of Kentucky take a look around you and notice that which caught at Elnora's heartstrings and allow it to tug on your own. Isn't it time we all reconnected to the natural?
Elnora is the main character in Gene Stratton Porter's novel that was recommended to me by my friend Harmony. I have to admit that I wasn't keen on reading it and it turned out to be different than I expected. I'm not sure I had very high expectations but in the end I'm certainly glad I read it. This novel was written about a girl in rural Indiana around the turn of the century. Elnora's father died when she was very young and the effect it had on her mother, Kate, has left a rift of misunderstanding floating between them. Kate doesn't understand why Elnora would want to attend high school and Elnora doesn't understand why her mother refuses to assist her in the necessary financial obligations.
Throughout the novel Elnora is given various hardships and is able to overcome them with imagination and poise. She has had an affinity for the things of the Limberlost, the natural life, and uses it to her advantage. This is definitely classic 'coming of age' tale reminiscent of Anne of Green Gables and Huckleberry Finn. The cast of characters come alive and you grow to love, hate, sympathize, or dread them. You worry about Elnora when it looks as if her innocence is in danger and you are proud of her when she stands up for herself, her way of life, and her relationship with the sickly yet dashing Philip Ammon. This story has all the elements of a fun read, it has adventure, romance, character growth and vivid details. Definitely worth your while.
After finishing it I came away with a strong desire to get to know my new home and all the natural splendors within it. I didn't want to collect butterflies or anything but I did want to reconnect with the natural world around me. Nature has so much to offer and in this day and age we have become too busy with our daily fast-paced lives to even notice. When was the last time you appreciated a sunset and the natural hues of red, purple, and pink; what about the lazy circling of a bird of prey as it hunts and spies its next meal; perhaps the scurrying of an army of ants as they busily go about the daily grind of ensuring their queen's health and happiness; or maybe the loving gaze of a long-time pet as he/she watches you in adoration as you sit quietly on the couch and read. Embrace the world that we have forgotten, beauty and surprise lie under every rock, in every tree, over any mountain and within the human body. No matter where you live whether in the 'cement jungle' or the backwoods of Kentucky take a look around you and notice that which caught at Elnora's heartstrings and allow it to tug on your own. Isn't it time we all reconnected to the natural?
Sunday, February 20, 2011
The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton
"A tiny girl is abandoned on a ship headed for Australia in 1913. She arrives completely alone with nothing but a small suitcase containing a few clothes and a single book - a beautiful volume of fairy tales. She is taken in by the dockmaster and his wife and raised as their own. On her twenty-first birthday, they tell her the truth, and with her sense of self shattered and very little to go on, "Nell" sets out to trace her real identity. Her quest leads her to Blackhurst Manor on the Cornish coast and the secrets of the doomed Mountrachet family. But it is not until her granddaughter, Cassandra, takes up the search after Nell's death that all the pieces of the puzzle are assembled. A spellbinding tale of mystery and self-discovery, The Forgotten Garden will take hold of your imagination and never let go."
That is the description on the back of the book. When first given this book by my friend Harmony I wasn't sure at all if it was something I'd be into but since we are going to visit her next month I knew I had to read it so I could return the book. I read this particular book in 1.5 days (it's 549 pages). Not only did it capture my attention and keep me interested it kept me guessing. Every time I turned around I thought I knew what would happen and then something would emerge in the story line and make my theory change.
At first it was difficult keeping track of the various characters in the various times but eventually I straightened it out in my head and looked forward to what each of them had to say. Nell, the 'little girl lost', was the crotchety old woman with a past. You think you understand her and then you realize you don't. Cassandra, the devoted granddaughter, has had some things happen that she is trying to overcome but she doesn't realize the healing process of the journey until much later. Eliza and Rose are polar opposites. You think you know how they are connected and in a sense you do but then suddenly you don't. You find yourself connecting emotionally with each of the characters, mourning with them, loving them, being their cheerleader, and then in the end missing them when the story is complete. The Forgotten Garden really does spin such an amazing tale that you want the end to be different although you know how it ends in the first pages. It's sad but you are given a sense of hope. Not only for the characters but for yourself. This book inspires its readers to learn about the hidden story behind each and every one of us.
Not all of us will have characters in our family tree as colorful, adventurous or courageous as those in this novel but you never know. Perhaps you have an Eliza, a Rose, or even a Nell. Perhaps your ancestors were slave owners or pirates, royalty or czars, paupers or gold diggers. I think now it's time we each take a lesson and search our own personal histories for the 'novels' that created us. I'm grateful to Harmony for passing this book my way, although she will get her copy back I will soon have my very own copy that I can re-read again and again. I highly doubt that the story will lose its fascination or grip with another reading. In fact, I think that it will continue to inspire and encourage me to keep going. To look at everyone I meet as a person with a past much more interesting than what appears on thier cover.
That is the description on the back of the book. When first given this book by my friend Harmony I wasn't sure at all if it was something I'd be into but since we are going to visit her next month I knew I had to read it so I could return the book. I read this particular book in 1.5 days (it's 549 pages). Not only did it capture my attention and keep me interested it kept me guessing. Every time I turned around I thought I knew what would happen and then something would emerge in the story line and make my theory change.
At first it was difficult keeping track of the various characters in the various times but eventually I straightened it out in my head and looked forward to what each of them had to say. Nell, the 'little girl lost', was the crotchety old woman with a past. You think you understand her and then you realize you don't. Cassandra, the devoted granddaughter, has had some things happen that she is trying to overcome but she doesn't realize the healing process of the journey until much later. Eliza and Rose are polar opposites. You think you know how they are connected and in a sense you do but then suddenly you don't. You find yourself connecting emotionally with each of the characters, mourning with them, loving them, being their cheerleader, and then in the end missing them when the story is complete. The Forgotten Garden really does spin such an amazing tale that you want the end to be different although you know how it ends in the first pages. It's sad but you are given a sense of hope. Not only for the characters but for yourself. This book inspires its readers to learn about the hidden story behind each and every one of us.
Not all of us will have characters in our family tree as colorful, adventurous or courageous as those in this novel but you never know. Perhaps you have an Eliza, a Rose, or even a Nell. Perhaps your ancestors were slave owners or pirates, royalty or czars, paupers or gold diggers. I think now it's time we each take a lesson and search our own personal histories for the 'novels' that created us. I'm grateful to Harmony for passing this book my way, although she will get her copy back I will soon have my very own copy that I can re-read again and again. I highly doubt that the story will lose its fascination or grip with another reading. In fact, I think that it will continue to inspire and encourage me to keep going. To look at everyone I meet as a person with a past much more interesting than what appears on thier cover.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Obsession, Passion, Hobby...Does it really matter what we call it?
Lastnight in a Nyquil stupor I realized the secret to blogging. You must blog about something that you really care about. Some people blog about their family (yep, I am one of those) and others blog about scrapbooking, hunting, movies, finances, church, and a plethora of other topics. When I think about my personal obsession two things come to mind: Elizabeth I & books. I figure I can incorporate the first while addressing the other so here it is. If you know me, and even if you don't you will soon enough, you'll realize that I love books. During a recent move I believe we had more boxes of books than another single other item. I was proud of myself when I let go of a small box of books but couldn't bring myself to let go of more.
I wasn't always connected with books. In fact I didn't discover the allure of words until I was in 7th grade where I was placed in a remedial reading class. I'm sure there were a lot of things we did but what I reemmber most was choosing a book from the tall bookshelf and reading it. I would then report back to the teacher what I had read. I don't remember her name but I do remember that since that time I have never been able to put a book down. My husband commented once to friends that in the time that he has known me (10 years) he has never seen me without a book. I'm constantly reading. I don't limit myself to one genre, instead I find it much more exciting and fulfilling to one day pick up a science fiction book and then when I'm done pick up historical fiction or cultural non-fiction. I find that my personal viewpoints and interests are adjusted, expanded, deepened and explored through whatever I might be reading at the time. If a book doesn't interest me I put it down and try to read it later. If after several failed attempts at reading I will give it to someone who will appreciate it more.
It will surprise some of you to know that I do not intend my first book blog to be about my favorite author, Brandon Sanderson, but someone I recently discovered through the recommendation of a good friend. Each week I plan to write about a book, author, article, or whatever strikes my fancy...as long as it's something I read. So this little thing, this hobby...or obsession as others would put it...this passion of mine is here for you to read. Perhaps there are fellow bibliomaniacs or bibliophiles out there who can point me in the direction of more good books to read. If you are a budding bookworm just breaking through your own cocoon have no fear, you are in very good company.
I would love your comments, book/author recommendations, histories, etc. I'm excited to have you join me on this varied and wonderful journey.
I wasn't always connected with books. In fact I didn't discover the allure of words until I was in 7th grade where I was placed in a remedial reading class. I'm sure there were a lot of things we did but what I reemmber most was choosing a book from the tall bookshelf and reading it. I would then report back to the teacher what I had read. I don't remember her name but I do remember that since that time I have never been able to put a book down. My husband commented once to friends that in the time that he has known me (10 years) he has never seen me without a book. I'm constantly reading. I don't limit myself to one genre, instead I find it much more exciting and fulfilling to one day pick up a science fiction book and then when I'm done pick up historical fiction or cultural non-fiction. I find that my personal viewpoints and interests are adjusted, expanded, deepened and explored through whatever I might be reading at the time. If a book doesn't interest me I put it down and try to read it later. If after several failed attempts at reading I will give it to someone who will appreciate it more.
It will surprise some of you to know that I do not intend my first book blog to be about my favorite author, Brandon Sanderson, but someone I recently discovered through the recommendation of a good friend. Each week I plan to write about a book, author, article, or whatever strikes my fancy...as long as it's something I read. So this little thing, this hobby...or obsession as others would put it...this passion of mine is here for you to read. Perhaps there are fellow bibliomaniacs or bibliophiles out there who can point me in the direction of more good books to read. If you are a budding bookworm just breaking through your own cocoon have no fear, you are in very good company.
I would love your comments, book/author recommendations, histories, etc. I'm excited to have you join me on this varied and wonderful journey.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)