BBAW 2012: Wrap!

I've really enjoyed this week's BBAW celebration! It was so very low key and simple, which was especially nice this time around.

Just a couple of little highlights:

** I got to know Jackie all over again.

** Bay State Reader commented on my blog yesterday and said that if I liked The Forstye Saga, I would also really enjoy a series of books called The Spoils of Time, so I've added that to my list of book wishes.

** Adam was another frequent commenter I had a lot this week and so I've been lurking on his blog a bit and then I found out he does this thing called The Classics Club, with a bunch of other bloggers, which I'd sort of heard of but not clicked on and not really absorbed and now.. sheesh... I just think I might have to do it! But first, I guess I have to come up with a massive list. Oh, boy.

** I met a spanking brand new blogger named Kara, so new in fact that she wasn't really participating in BBAW (since she only started blogging this every week!), but I'm counting it anyway since she has been my only commenter so far today! :)

** My favorite day was the "rah rah" moments we were all feeling on day three with our posts of what book blogging means to us. That was awesome!

** Yeah, it's been fun! Let's do it again!

And now, let's get geared up for Bloggiesta! Have you signed up yet? :)

BBAW 2012: Read This Book!

Whenever we are asked to push a book we think no one has heard about or one we feel needs more love (as we are today for the BBAW prompt,) I'm always stumped. I'm pretty sure that every book I've read and loved, you, at least some of you, or most of you, have also. But after some thinking, I've finally decided to promote an old classic that I know you've heard of, but my guess is, most of you haven't yet read. No doubt, you've seen me mention this one before, as it often ends up on my Top Ten lists, but now I'm taking the chance to talk it up a little more.

The Forsyte Saga by John Galsworthy

If you love Downton Abbey, you'll love this book.
If you love sweeping family sagas, you'll love this book.
If you love books in a series, you'll love this book.
If you love period dramas, you'll love this book.
If you love stories filled with all sorts of carryings on, you'll love this book!

This book, commonly known as The Forstye Saga is actually made up of three books, a trilogy of sorts. They are: The Man of Property, In Chancery and To Let. They were written between 1906 and 1921. There's also a trilogy sequel called A Modern Comedy, and then even yet another sequel called End of the Chapter, also made up of a trilogy. Thus, this whole story is actually a trilogy of trilogies! I know!

It's all about a couple of families and their interactions with each other, their loves and hates, their money and property and houses, the spinster aunts and the endearing grandpas. Then they have kids, and the story then follows all THEIR loves and hates, and etc. It takes place in England starting during the late 1800's and into the early 1900's.

Now, the author himself I know nothing about, but he actually won the Nobel Prize for Literature for this book in 1932. Wow! Way to go John! Who knew? :) And in looking him up, I guess he wrote a gazillion things. So, why don't we talk about him more? Why is he not a Charles Dickens or Jane Austen, an Anthony Trollope or Elizabeth Gaskell? Good question. I say, he deserves more attention!

And so I say, if you haven't read this series (even if it's just the first trilogy in the trilogy) the time is now.

Once you are done with reading it, then you'll have the lovely experience of watching the Masterpiece Theater mini series. There's two seasons and I think it covers the whole of the first book (or...trilogy.) And it's simply wonderful. I'm telling you, just like Downton Abbey in its look and feel.

Here's a teaser:




I've only read the first volume...I think I had the second one in my hand at one time, but never quite managed it. Anyway, I remember while reading that first one (which was back in 2007, I looked it up, and sadly it was just before I started blogging about books!)  I was so caught up in it that it was all I could think about. Then I watched the show and things got even worse! Completely obsessed I tell you.

So now I must know... have you read it? Watched it? If not, does this make you want to? Even a little bit? Lucky for you, it's free online, nearly free on Kindle, and the show is on Netflix. So, what are you waiting for?

BBAW 2012: The Meaning of Book Blogging

The prompt for today's BBAW topic is "what does book blogging mean to you?" 

For me, it has one simple basic meaning, and that is..... to blog about books and get a conversation going with other like minded bookish fans. 

But if you would like me to elaborate:

It means being able to let lose with your love (or hate) of a book and or author... and not feel like everyone is looking at you weird. Well, at least not TOO weird.

It means reading the same book with other bloggers and talking about it (aka a read along.)

It means challenging each other to "read more books!" Or to branch out and try something new. Or to remember and revisit the "good old books" or to participate in something bookishly fun.

It means commenting as much as you can on other blogs to help facilitate the conversation mentioned above.... which then leads to connections and relationships with other bloggers.

It means writing posts that get people thinking about and talking about books....whether that's reviews, lists, discussions, etc.

It means supporting the general bookish community, both online and off, and supporting authors by putting your money where you mouth is... if you at all can.


And finally, it means having fun!

BBAW 2012: Interview Swap with Jackie of Farm Lane Books

Today, for the BBAW interview swap,  I have the privilege of introducing to you Jackie of Farm Lane Books.  I'm pretty sure I remember when Jackie first arrived on the book blogging scene. She was everywhere! And became popular so fast. It was awesome! And now, she is one of the most popular book blogs over there in beautiful England, if not the world. I think she's even won a few blogger awards and has found much recognition. So cool. Way to go Jackie!

I love her blog for its intellectual nature. I promise, you will be smarter for reading it! She blogs about lots of award winning books and keeps us all informed on what's going on with some pretty big award lists. She makes me want to branch out and read books that I would never have found or put on the list otherwise.

Please welcome.... Jackie!
 

1. Tell me how you got started blogging and especially how you picked such a lovely blog name.

I started blogging shortly after the birth of my second son. I was stuck at home on my own and needed something to occupy my brain. I’d recently discovered the Booker Prize blog and inspired by Laura’s blog I decided to start my own. I loved books and so reviewing them seemed like a natural progression. At that point I had a small business selling secondhand books online, named after the road in which I live. Since I already owned the website and email addresses I called the blog “Farm Lane Books” too

Perfect name I say. So simple and so quaint. I love it.

2. What's been your favorite book you've read so far this year? And what's been your least favorite? What's your all time favorite book?

My favourite book of the year so far is HHhH by Laurent Binet. It is an original book that looks at the way we approach historical fiction. It has the pace of a thriller, but is thought provoking and amusing too. My least favourite book is harder to decide. I abandon anything that isn’t really interesting me and so it is rare for me to finish something terrible. The only book that is springing to mind is Lionel Asbo by Martin Amis – it was unrealistic, pretentious and not at all funny,

My all time favourite book is A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry. It is set in India and has an amazing, emotional plot packed with a vivid atmosphere and historical detail. I think it will be hard for me to find a better book.

I totally agree with you on A Fine Balance. That one blew me away.

3. You mention that you live in Surrey England, if I were to come visit...what would you take me to see? Where's the best place you yourself have visited?

Surrey is a great place and there is loads to do within a very short distance. It is only 30 minutes from London so most people would go for a bit of sightseeing there. Windsor Castle is about 20 minutes away and there are also lots of old country houses and beautiful parks nearby. Unsurprisingly I’m a bit of an expert on the best places to buy books locally and so I’m sure I could fill your case with wonderful books.If that sounds like fun, you’re welcome to visit anytime!

Does it sound fun? Are you kidding me? Sounds like TONS of fun! We visited Windsor when we were there nearly ten years ago... but sadly, we got there after it was closed. We stood at the gate and looked longingly in. But it was still cool, even at that.

4. What do you do when you are not blogging or reading?

I enjoy spending time with my two little boys (aged 5 and 6), walking my dog, cooking adventurous dishes and spending time with my friends.

Sounds so nice and relaxing!

Jackie with her two boys.

5. What book do you wish you could read yourself into?

That is a tricky question because most of my favourite books involve tragedy and danger. I think I’ll have to cheat and say I’d love to move to Happyland in the Mr Men book ‘Mr Happy’, because it would be wonderful to live in a world where everyone is happy.

It took me a bit to realize what book you were talking about here, this is what I found when I looked it up.... is it the right one? Good choice!

6. Since it's BBAW, tell me about a favorite blogging experience.

Blogging has enabled me to do loads of things that I would previously only dreamed of. I have been to some amazing publisher parties and met lots of fantastic authors/bloggers. It is always wonderful to be able to talk to other people who love books as much as I do. My favourite has to be a speed dating event organised by Sceptre. I got to meet Andrew Miller and Chris Cleave, two authors I particularly enjoy, and was treated a bit like a celebrity for the day.

With Chris Cleave....

..... and with Andrew Miller.

It was great to get to know you better Jackie! Thanks for participating. I'm going to promise to be a better commenter on your blog and add some deep and profround award winning book to my line up!

BBAW 2012: Appreciating Book Bloggers

Wow! Time again for a week of blog appreciation fun! Are you ready? I'm ready!

Today's topic from Book Blogger Appreciation Week central is to list blogs that we appreciate. As I say every single year... how hard is this? Let me say it again... VERY hard! There's so many.  Last year I made categories and this year, I'm going to it again. Here goes:


Blogs that make me smile and BE HAPPY!
(These blogs are full of fun personality! )

Inside a Book
Alternate Readality
Polishing Mud Balls
Read This Instead
Kami's Library Thoughts

Blogs that make me want to DO THINGS!
(They always have something going on, challenges, read alongs, etc. which make me want to get doing something... either that or every book they review makes me want to run out and read it right now!)

Love, Laughter and a Touch of Insanity
The Written World
Angieville
Stainless Steel Droppings

Blogs that make me wish I were SMARTER!
(These blogs are full of very thoughtful, very smart reviews and other observations about life. Makes me wish my blog was a bit more.. smart.)

Omphaloskepsis
Rebecca Reads
Bloggin' 'bout Books
The Bluestocking Society
Stella Matutina

And to all the rest of you, I LOVE YOU TOO! :) You are all wonderful. I wish I could comment more. Happy BBAW to you all.

BBAW: Tips and Trends

Wow! The last day of BBAW! What a fun week it's been! Weird though, that this is the first week in months were I've actually had reviews to post too. Next week I'll have to catch up on that....

So on to today's post prompt: Share 3 things you are essential tried and true practices for every blogger and 1-3 new trends or tools you’ve adapted recently or would like to in the future.

All the posts I've written this week were done before I saw what everyone else had to say. Today, however, I'm a bit behind, so I've already been looking over several posts and guess what? You are all saying the very same tips I wanted to give! That just means they are pretty important ones!

Blogging Tips

1. Be Yourself! Don't be worrying about what everyone else is doing. Don't be thinking, what should/can I talk about, how should I do this or that, is this way right? The only "right" way is the way it feels right to you. It's a book blog, yes, but if we don't get to know YOU then it's not as fun. When I first started, I was nervous about this bit. I didn't know if  book blog should have personal stuff, but I got over that and now you know probably a little bit too much about me! But I'm hoping that ends up making you want to come visit more often, if I am my real self. And I know I will visit YOU more often if you have your real self show up in your blog too.

2. Be Creative. If you have a great idea, go for it. Try new things. Don't be afraid to push buttons and experiment. Talk to people to get new ideas. Work together with other bloggers to try something. Don't be shy. (I remember saying this one before!)

3. Be happy and have fun! Stay positive on your blog. Rant now and then (because those are a blast!) but not all the time. Be friends with everyone and play well together! If something about blogging starts not being fun, change it up. Don't let blogging become a drudgery, keep it fun and simple and easy. If it starts feeling like too much pressure, step back and figure out why, then change it. 

So those are my very simple tips for the day! As I said, pretty much the same thing everyone else is saying.

Trends

You know, I'm usually the last to know about a new trend, and it takes me forever to jump on board with something, so I have nothing for you here! But I'm having a blast looking over everyone else's posts to see what's new. Be sure to check out the links here to learn along with me. 

I'v had a blast this week. Thanks to everyone who dropped by and I hope you find it interesting enough to come back again. You're all wonderful and I APPRECIATE you all! :)

P.S. Don't forget to enter my giveaway which will be ending soon! You know you want this book!

BBAW: How Blogging Affects Reading

Today's BBAW topic is to ponder the meshing of blogging and reading. Several questions are asked, but I think I'll concentrate on this one: Has book blogging changed the way you read?

And the answer is a very big huge YES! Blogging has changed the way I read, what I'm reading, how I pick what to read.... in many ways. Some are wonderful and some not so much. Let's explore.

Positive Changes

Branching Out. I'm reading things I never would have picked up on my own. Odd Thomas just recently reviewed is a good example. The huge epic fantasy series that I've been loving so much... I don't think I would have tried. Many of the non-fiction I've enjoyed in recent years (Coop for example) I would have never found. The list goes on and on of things out of my previous realm that I now love.

Give Me More! I read much more than I used to read. At first I found this to be a strange statistic because if I'm blogging, that takes up reading time, right? But no, when I started blogging, I also started reading more. Perhaps it's because I allowed myself to. I let myself read more and faster and two or three at a time. Does this make sense? Before, I think I held back, feeling that I shouldn't read so much. Now I figure, what the heck. Who cares?

Buying Binges. I buy more books then before. Is this a positive or a negative? It's positive because I like building up my home library, which encourages my kids to use it and choose books from home to read. See negative below. It also supports the ever wobbling print book business and the authors themselves. This is always a good thing.

Bookish Buddies. I have reading buddies both in real life and online. Before blogging, I had no one to talk books with, and it was sad. Now, quite simply, it's a blast! Especially reading books together. Little mini book clubs all over the place.

Author Savvy. Pre-blogging I don't think I would have ever learned who my local authors are and would have not had this huge desire to read everything they write. Well, maybe a little, but not to the extent this fanaticism is today. And I know they would have never known I exist, but now thanks to the blog, there are a few of them that know I'm out here cheering them on!

Set for Life. What to read next is a question I will never, ever have to ask again.

Negative Changes

Remember the Library? I really miss going to the library and walking up and down the stacks and just seeing what looks good. Having nothing at all in mind, just looking and picking. This hardly ever happens anymore. Now, if I get something from the library, I go with a book in mind. Or I've put something on hold and have been waiting forever for this popular book. If I do happen to grab random things from the library, I feel guilty because there's too many things waiting at home to read!

Dickens Who? I'm reading less classics than I used to, and I think it's because I read more YA. I didn't now much about these popular YA books before, but now, I HAVE to keep up! I also think my brain function has gone down, and that I don't know what to blame on for sure. It couldn't be old age, could it?

Buying Binges II. I'm buying more books than before. It's not good because this takes money! And one shouldn't spend ALL their money on books, should they?

TBR Mountain. The TBR pile is huge, much bigger pre-blogging days. While it's nice to never wonder "what to read next" (see above,) it is also sometimes a little stressful and tends to take the fun out of it. This is a balance easily found by simply saying to oneself, "I will read what I want to read when I want to read it!"   We can all do this, right?

I think I could go on and on (mostly on the positive list of course!) but I'll stop for now! So, what's on your list for how blogging has affected your reading?

BBAW: Making Connections

Today's BBAW topic is about figuring out the balance between connecting with bloggers and still having time for real life. We are asked to share your tips for finding and keeping community in book blogging despite the hectic demands made on your time and the overwhelming number of blogs out there. 

It's true, the world of book blogging is amazingly huge now. It's been interesting to watch it grow over the years. This week marks four and half years since I've been doing it and wow, it's changed A LOT. Thumbs up to the new bloggers who seem totally undaunted and just jump in there and make a name for themselves! You guys are amazing! It's lucky I didn't have such a huge amount of bloggers to deal with because I don't know that I could have done it!

I've come up with these few tips for connecting to a book blogging community (and I know there are several circles within the larger community and I think each of us just sort of ends up in one or two of them. Not sure exactly how that happens!) Hopefully they make sense. I look forward to what you all have to say on this subject!

Comment! We all know how important this is to connect. Bottom line, connecting WILL NOT happen if you are scared (or don't take time) to comment. Both on other blogs and back to commenters on your own blog. It's hard and I have been extremely lousy at this myself lately and I always feel so bad about that. But the only thing to do is, keep trying and if you have something to say, just say it!

Get Organized.Use Google Reader or some other way to organize the blogs you read. Keep it organized and visit your favorites often. They will learn to look for you and start visiting you back. Also, you can keep track of blogs that aren't really participating in things, and you can file them away in a "non active" folder, or unsubsribe, so you aren't wasting time there.

Participate. I think if you want to feel part of the community it's pretty important to participate in events such as BBAW. There's many of them. (Other examples that I know of are Armchair BEA, Dewey's Readathon and other spin off readathons, Bloggiesta, challenges, group reads, etc.) It really helps to let people know you exist just by participating in these events.

Twitter. I know I know, what does Twitter have to do with book blogging? The answer is, I don't know, but it sure seems like so much talk happens over there, and again, if you want to connect, Twitter is an awesome way to do it! Lots of book talk going on, lots of authors to follow, lots of conversations happening. It's a fun place, even if you are a bit quiet like me, you can still eavesdrop and sort of know what's going on. (If you want to find me there, I'm @SueySays.)

Don't Stress. We all have to not worry about trying to connect with everyone. There's just too many. Like for instance, this week and all the new and wonderful blogs we are seeing! I say, pick just a handful that you really seem to have a gut feeling about and then go for it with them, and don't worry about all the ones you are missing.

Stay Strong! I find that there are ups and downs with this issue of feeling connected. Sometimes you feel so good and wonderful and everyone is commenting and people like you and blogging is a happy thing! Then there are times when you feel like you are the only one out there, nobody seem to care about what you are saying, and you begin to wonder why you are doing this and if you disappeared would anyone notice. Yeah, it's the blogging blues. I feel it regularly. But the point is to just push through that when it happens and don't give up. Maybe take a break and start strong and fresh afterwards.

So there you have it! I hope it helps for those trying to find a place here with this crazy fun hobby! And if you still need a place, come on over and let's talk! :)

BBAW Giveaway: I Am Not a Serial Killer

I find myself at the last minute (well luckily not the VERY last minute) with a book to give away to celebrate BBAW. I wasn't planning on doing a giveaway this time around, but I now have an extra copy of the first book in a series I've really enjoyed this year that I'd love to send off to a BBAW participant and/or book blogger.

The book? I Am Not a Serial Killer by Dan Wells. Here's my review of the book if you are interested. I really loved this series. And you know, it would be perfect for reading this time of year and make a good addition to your RIP Challenge list!

All you have to do to enter the contest is fill out the form below. Be sure to include your email address so I can find you and get your mailing address should random.org pick your number. Also, sadly I'm going to make this only open to US and Canada residents this time because those postage prices scare me!

Of course, I would love comments and followers! But that's not a requirement to enter. If, however, you feel moved to comment and say hi, here's a question you can answer... actually here are TWO questions for you:

1. What really creeps you out?
2. What really creepy thing do you actually LIKE but it creeps out most everyone else?

Happy BBAW everyone and good luck!

(for other BBAW giveaway links, click this link)

 

A BBAW Top Ten Tuesday: Books I Read Because of Another Blogger

This week's list prompt over at The Broke and Bookish is tied in a bit to the current BBAW celebration by asking us what books I've read because of another blogger.

What if I just say... all of them? Yeah, it seems these days everything I read is because of a blogger! Let's look back on my recent reading history, shall we?

1. The Soldier's Wife by Margaret Leroy (currently reading).... because of Ibeeeg.
2. Odd Thomas by Dean Koontz... because of Jenny.
3. The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson... because of Ibeeeg, and Kailana, and Carl.
4. Divergent by Veronica Roth... because... well nearly every single one of you! (Have you noticed it's almost sweeping the BBAW book awards? Crazy!)
5. Ship Breaker by Paolo Bacigalupi ..... because of Melissa.
6. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss.... because of Ibeeeg.
7. City of Bones (and Ashes) by Cassandra Clare.... another couple because nearly all of you!
8. Open Country (and Pieces of Sky earlier) by Kaki Warner... because of Susan.
9. Several classics (The Way We Live Now for example).... because of The Classics Circuit.
10. A Madness of Angels by Kate Griffin... because of Jenny.

Other books I blame you all for:

If I Stay
Chaos Walking series
Anna and the French Kiss
Major Pettigrew's Last Stand
Wither
Sapphique
The Glass Castle
Birthmarked
....and it goes on and on. Really, it makes me wonder what I read before blogging? I mean, I knew NOTHING!

So, tell me, what books have I made prompted you to read? I hope there's something....

BBAW Interview: JennReadsFiction

It's my privilege today to bring to you a brand new blog (only blogging a couple of months) called JennReadsFiction. This awesome new blog is run by two lovely ladies, Jenn and Mary, so of course I asked them both to answer my questions. Here's what they had to say:

Mary and Jenn

1. Do you take turns writing reviews and doing the posts for your blog? Maybe one person handles reviews and the other giveaways? Let us know how that works and what sort of schedule you’ve figured out.

M: Yes, Jenn actually started the blog and asked me to be part of it and help with some of the reviews. She's pretty much the "boss." She handles all the updates and contests, but we both write reviews. We don't really take turns or have a schedule or anything. That might be a good idea though, thanks :) Jenn and I usually read the same books at around the same time like a book club, and while we're reading, we constantly discuss and laugh and gush and cry about the books together through emails, texts, calls, and every time we hang out. We pretty much share the same opinions, so most of our reviews reflect our "book club" discussions.

J: Yes, Mary and I run the blog; I guess you would say I’m more of the webmaster. I upload all of the content and work on the layouts. However, my husband did design our logo, which I love. When Mary does the reviews, she sends them to me via e-mail and I upload them to the blog. She reviews everything I add and we make suggestions back and forth to better the blog. I wish I would have chosen a better name for the blog but it was really late when I chose it and I just wanted something super direct. I’m working on getting a “maryreadsfiction” e-mail account but we’ll see. We both contribute to the giveaways, we do not ask authors to send us books however, we do ask them to sign it. Some cities/states don’t ever get Author signings and I feel bad for the fans. So being from L.A. we are really fortunate to have so many opportunities to meet with authors. So we enjoy holding giveaways. Most of the authors go that extra step and provide us with SWAG to add to our giveaway (Josie Angelini/Starcrossed & Suzanne Young/A Need So Beautiful) without even asking..we love them too by the way. I wish we were more consistent with the blog but sometimes reading trumps the blog, we’re working on our momentum and in a couple of months I think it’ll be more consistent.

2. It looks like you are quite new to blogging. Tell us what prompted you (besides the love of reading) to get started blogging. What do you think of the experience so far? What are your long term goals for your blog?

M: Like I said, Jenn started the blog. I think she felt it was a healthy way for us to share our "love" of books to others and maybe spread the word on certain books we felt people should read. We're always talking books in public and recommending books to our friends and the blog is a fun outlet for that. I've really enjoyed the experience so far. It's like when I was in high school and had to write essays on my reading assignments. I used to love that. As far as long term goals go, I'm not so sure I have any. I just like what my part in the blog is right now. It's fun.

J: We ARE so new to blogging. Mary and I started reading a couple of YA novels and then we wanted to read more. We looked at some sites, like Amazon and used their suggestions. But there were some books we weren’t sure about so we ended up on other people’s blogs and we were really impressed. We mostly just wanted more suggestions as to what we could read. Then we found ourselves talking about books several times throughout the day and kept going over the books we had read. I was in a bookclub before but it felt nothing like the experience Mary and I were having. I’ve always read but we’re like borderline obsessive now. It’s a good kind of obsession. I think we’re doing pretty well for our first blog, there are a lot of things we could be doing better but we just take it one step at a time. As long as we have followers and activity, we’ll keep it up for them. I feel like I made some twitter friends and I look forward to their tweets and comments. We love holding giveaways and getting our fellow readers and authors involved. I was actually just thinking about our long term goals just recently. We’ll just have to see where it leads, but for right now, we’re just happy reading and blogging about it. Although, in the future, I’d love to work in publishing.

3. I can see that YA is your most favorite genre. What is the best YA book you’ve read so far this year and why? And also, what are some of your favorite YA books of all time?

M: There were so many amazing books that came out this year that it's hard to name just one, but I think for me, and maybe Jenn will agree, Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini really stood out. I just couldn't put it down. I was so intrigued with the story and I fell in love with all the characters. I blush just thinking about Lucas Delos. I also thought the storyline was pretty original. Jenn and I even went to one of the author's events and loved Josie. She was so sweet and down to earth. This book kinda catapulted Jenn's decision to start a blog. We couldn't stop talking about it and we felt like we kept leaving our friends out of the conversation.

My favorite YA books of all time? The first YA book i fell in love with was Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card. My brother recommended it to me and it blew me away. More recently, I became obsessed with the Hunger Games trilogy. This is actually the series that really got me into the YA genre. After that, I was on a strict YA diet.

J: I’m 27 and I’ve been reading some sort of YA since I was in grade school, I actually read more of American Lit and then in the eighth grade I read The Giver and have been interested in it ever since. I have some non-YA books that I love but lately it seems that all I’ve been reading is YA, which I also LOVE. Starcrossed by Josie Angelini was my favorite of the year. In fact, Mary and I had planned a trip for the last week of August to head to Boston, Nantucket (where Starcrossed takes place) and New York, but unfortunately due to the Hurricane, we had to cancel. But as far as other YA novels, I am a Harry Potter fanatic and Twilight lover. More recently I fell in love with The Hunger Games, but those are my top fave series. I also really love anything Jennifer Echol’s writes too. Mary and I have been lucky enough to read some ARCs and the future of YA is definitely thriving and we’re so happy to be a part of it.

4. Tell us a little about yourselves. What do you do in your real life? What other hobbies do you have besides reading? What would a perfect day include?

M: Professionally, I'm a makeup artist and I love my job! It's very fulfilling helping people feel good about the way they look. I work in a salon and also freelance for weddings and special events. When I'm not working, I'm usually at home reading off of my Kindle, which has become my best friend. I also enjoy watching TV and going to movies. I love spending time with my girlfriends- going to restaurants or dancing at clubs. Hanging out with my family and friends. I'm also a Disneyland passholder and I'm a huge Britney Spears fan! Don't laugh! A perfect day for me would include all of the above. Unfortunately, there aren't enough hours in a day to do all that.

J: I have an office job with tons of responsibilities and I assist people, sort of hospital administration. I’ve been doing it for almost 7 years and it allows me to do other things I love, primarily read, travel and buy books. I also work at a retail store on the weekends and I love it because I have amazing coworkers and I also get to share my literary life with them. Just like Mary, I am a Disneyland annual passholder and we try to go as much as we can. I love to go out as much as I can during the work week so the weekends can be devoted to reading or getting through as much of a book as I can. Reading The Hunger Games while working 70 hours a week was extremely challenging and I found myself trying to sneak my kindle during the day which was not very smart. But I had no choice! Haha. But as far as a regular day, I wake up, read while my husband and I carpool to work, go to work, read for an hour at lunch…work a few more hours, read for my 15 break and then read when I get home. I was really happy about this past summer because I was able to read more than 30 books and still spend time with my husband and friends. We go out a lot, have dinners, potlucks, watch TV, movies and everything. I’m really lucky to have them in my life. Mary and I have been talking about books so much that we even got some of our friends and co-workers to read some of the books we’ve read.

Did I mention Mary is my booktwin? She is. I love her like a sister and we have the same wants and interests when it comes to reading a good YA book.

5. If you could read yourself into any story/book, which one would it be and why?

M: I guess I'd like to be in Pride and Prejudice. I know it's a cliche but it's my favorite book (of all genres). I can't help it. I love that time period. I love the parties and the scenery and the formality.

J: This question is so hard! But, I think it would have to be the Harry Potter Series. I love magic and I love all the characters in it. For 5 minutes, I’d probably make myself the same age as Harry, in let’s say book six, where he was his happiest. He was away from the Dursley’s, awesome in Quidditch and was finally doing well in potions.

Thanks so much to both of you for your awesome answers! To my readers, please check out their blog especially if you you are a YA lover. They have reviews on all the favorites! You can also follow them over on Twitter @jenreadsfiction. (Oh, and do head over there to see my answers to their questions too! They asked some good ones!)


Also, be sure to check out the full list of interview links over at the main BBAW page here.

BBAW 2011: Brilliant Bloggers!

It's time for another crazy week of appreciating book bloggers! I look forward to the blog hopping and post writing and overall back patting we'll all be doing this week. What a blast.

Today's topic is: You are encouraged to highlight a couple of bloggers that have made book blogging a unique experience for you. 


I always find this to be so hard! There's so many, and I hate to leave people out and yet there's no way to include everyone, but I will try to make a list of those bloggers who really shine for me. I think a way to do this is to have categories, and make a list. You know I love lists! (And I will ignore that little part that says "a couple." )

Bloggers That I Really Admire and Look Up To: Last week I posted about Dewey and her rock star status in the book blogging world. I feel like these guys here are next up for that role because of their impact on this blogging community. There's so many more I could list here, but these are some of the ones that feel a more personal connection to.

Florinda at The 3 R's Blog
Trish at Hey Lady! Whatcha Readin'?
Michelle at That's What She Read
The1st  Daughter at There's a Book
Carl at Stainless Steel Droppings
Becky at Becky's Book Reviews
Angie at Angieville
Heather at A Lifetime of Books

Bloggers Who Comment: While there are many more of you that comment, these seem to be the ones who have been consistent in recent weeks. Without them, blogging wouldn't be near as much fun, so thanks for the comments guys! You keep  me going! And sorry I've been so crappy with commenting myself lately!

Jenny at Alternate Readality
Kailana at The Written World
Donna at Weaving a Tale or Two
Stephanie at Reviews by Lola
L at omphaloskepsis
Shelley at Book Clutter
Inside A Book at Inside a Book
Melissa at The Avid Reader's Musings
Jenni at Jenni Elyse

Bloggers Who Have Become Real Life Friends: Bloggers I've been lucky enough to meet in real life (except one as you can see) and become friends outside the blogging world.

Melissa at One Librarian's Book Reviews
Jessica at The Bluestocking Society
Kim at Good Clean Reads
Natasha at Maw Books
Becky at One Literature Nut
Emily at Emily's Reading Room
Deanna at Polishing  Mud Balls (even though I have yet to meet her in real life)


Bloggers Who Have Been There Since the Beginning: These are just some of the book bloggers that seem to have been consistently around since I started, and the ones I consider my first blogging friends.

Raidergirl3 at An Adventure in Reading
Susan at Bloggin' 'bout Books
Chris at Book-a-rama
Melissa at Book Nut
Literary Feline at Musings of a Bookish Kitty
Serena at Savvy Verse and Wit
SuziQOregon at Whimpulsive
Lisa at Books. Lists. Life

Thank you to all of you for making my blogging experience fun! I wish I could list you all and hopefully I didn't make anyone sad for leaving you off this list. I love you all. My Reader shows it, and I whenever I sit down to weed things out, I can never "get rid of" anyone. Also, like I said above, I feel like I've been really bad at the commenting thing myself lately, so please know I'm reading, but kinda quiet with the comments. I will try to do better to let you know I'm here and enjoying what you are all posting.

Thanks again all you crazy cool bloggers! Happy BBAW!

BBAW: Future Treasures

Today's BBAW topic is to recap our week and predict our future in blogging.

First off all, I've been  a little more laid back this BBAW then in previous years. I've been a little less click happy with regard to adding to the reader. Which kind of makes me sad because I'm sure there's lots of blogs out there that I would love and have sort of skimmed over in my hurry. Hopefully, they'll end up on my radar eventually anyway!

But it's been fun as it always is! Reading the interviews and meeting new bloggers. Seeing what new genres we've encouraged each other to read this year. And adding to the pile with all the great recommendations. Oh, and the gazillon giveaways! Did you enter lots? I entered only a few really, but yeah, there's some great ones out there! (My giveaway lasts until Sunday night, so you still have time if you missed it.)

Having said all that, I must admit that BBAW and other events like it have another strange side affect. It makes me feel like a very very small fish in a very very big sea. Once that happens, lots of insecurities float to the surface and I have to battle them down. I hate it when that happens. But on the other hand, all the praise and high fiving and back slapping and "way to go"s are wonderful and happy and so very positive that you can't help but be proud to be part of it all, small or not.

I really do enjoy this week of book blogging love and think it's a blast!

And now for my goals. Hmmmm..... what are my goals?

1. Stop with that above mentioned insecurity already. Sheesh. Unnecessary!
2. I hereby vow to comment more! (Is it okay if my comments are, perhaps, a bit on the brainless side?)
3. Don't stop... believing blogging! After three and half years, I'd say it's part of who I am now, and why would I ever want to stop? So here's to keeping it up.
4. I would like to do more enthusiastic reviews. (In other words, I want more of you blaming me for finding your favorite books!)
5. And finally, continue to put more effort into my little features. Add to my lists! Be brave and email more authors to send me a list!

So, that's about where I stand on my future... how about you? 

And a big hip hip hooray to all those involved in making this week happen! It blows me away the effort that's involved. You are all extremely appreciated!

BBAW: A Forgotten Treasure: Anya Seton

Book Blogger Appreciation Week is almost over! Wow, how did that happen? Today, the theme is to promote a forgotten treasure, or in other words, a book we feel deserves more attention.

After much pondering I've decided to bend the instructions just a little (of course) and highlight an "old" favorite author, Anya Seton (1904-1990).

Back when I was just a "normal" reader, back in the days when I would wander aimlessly into the library not knowing what was "the thing" at the moment, or what it was I just had to read, back before YA or endless trilogies and series to keep up with..... I discovered Anya Seton.  After the first book I read, I devoured everything the library had by her. I think my fascination waned before I'd read all of her books, but while it lasted, it was a blast!

Here's a list of her books (swiped from Wikepedia) with notes if I've read them:

My Theodosia (1941): about the daughter of VP Aaron Burr and her romance with Meriwether Lewis. I think I have this one but have yet to read it!

Dragonwyck (1944): about Miranda Wells and her marriage to Nicholas Van Ryn. I don't remember ever reading this one, though it sounds familiar.

The Turquoise (1946): New York Society in the mid 19th century. I have NOT read this one.

The Hearth and the Eagle (1948): about the author's own ancestors in Marblehead, Massachusetts. I think this is another one I have on hand, but didn't ever get around to.

Foxfire (1950): a western set in the time of post Depression. Did not read this one yet.

Katherine (1954): about the romance of John of Gaunt and Katherine Swynford. One of my all time favorite books. Wonderful love story.

The Mistletoe and the Sword (1956): set in England during the time of the Romans. I didn't read this one, but wow, it sounds good!

The Winthrop Woman (1958): about the niece and daughter-in-law of John Winthrop, governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. I remember really enjoying this one too.

Devil Water (1962): set in the time of the Jacobite Risings in the 1700's. I did read this one, yes. Wonderful!

Avalon (1965): set in the time of Anglo-Saxon England and the Viking expansion. I'm quite sure I read this one, but I don't remember much from it.

Green Darkness (1972): this is the first one of hers I read. It's a time travel book, going back to the time of Edward VI. I loved it! I need to re-read in a really desperate way!

Smouldering Fires (1975): I know I missed reading this one. It's about reincarnation set in the same time period as Green Darkness

Now, after having done that, you may think why would I highlight this author if I can't hardly remember her books! Yes, I'm wondering that too, EXCEPT, I do remember loving every bit of the books I read! I remember being caught up in the time period complete with just enough details to make you feel like you might be learning something. At the same time, the romances were just steamy enough to get you fanning your face and keep you glued to the page. Oh, I would love to re-read and remember those wonderful stories all over again. It seems that they are unique and amazing enough that we should be hearing more about them today. So yes, I think they all deserve a highlight and definitely fit the category of forgotten treasure.

Have you read any Anya Seton books? Which was your favorite? If not, do any of these sound interesting?


Edited to add: If you were paying attention, you may have had a sneak peak of this post when I accidentally published it yesterday, too early. So, then I copied, pasted, deleted and scheduled it to post on the appropriate day, today! If you saw this post earlier and wanted to comment, but couldn't, I hope you come back!


Ah, the things we do to keep people on their toes around here!!

BBAW: Unexpected Treasure (Blogger Buzz)

Today our BBAW task is to write about a book or genre we have discovered and read because of the influence of other book blogs.... specifically one we wouldn't have picked up otherwise.

Oh my, the list is endless! (And I can't stick to just one!)

The first one that comes to mind is the read along that I participated in with Heather J and Florinda. The one where in March we read The Sparrow and then in August we read Children of God. Now, granted, The Sparrow was already on my shelves to be read... some day. I'm not sure that some day would have happened very quickly if not for the read along. And I'm so glad to have read it sooner than later! As for Children of God, its sequel, I didn't even know it existed, so I'm glad that, because of them, I now have it read also!

Angieville. Do I even need to say more? I can blame her for so many books I read this year, some I may have found on my own, but not for a long long time. And some of them I'd never heard of and probably never would have. Here's just a small sample:

The Queen's Thief series which ended up being my book club's summer assignment and introduced me to my new favorite guy character.
Perfect Chemistry and Rules of Attraction both of a steamy-ish genre I don't normally read.
The Lady of the Forest which she suggested to help enable my Robin Hood obsession.
Daughter of the Forest (along with Melissa from One Librarian's Book Reviews and her raving review.)
Mistwood which after this review I knew I had to try it.
And in the near future I'll be reading Jane because of this recent review. Reading Angie's blog is definitely hazardous to your TBR pile so beware!

But wait there's more:

--Because of a TLC blog tour I read Coop by Michael Perry which will mostly be on my top ten list of the year and in a genre I hardly ever read.
--Because of a comment made by Susan at Bloggin' 'bout Books I read Pieces of Sky, a nice western romance, which I also don't read much but was in a major mood for!
--Because of a comment from Melissa at One Librarian's Book Reviews where she said The Schwa Was Here was even better perhaps than Unwind, I discovered a new favorite author.

And as I said, that's just a smidgen of all the influences bloggers have had on my reading this past year. Thank you so much to all of you for broadening my reading horizons! I hope you keep it up! And I hope that sometimes my influence has caused you to find and read something that ends up as your favorite of the year, your new favorite character or your latest favorite author.

BBAW: New Treasure (Interview Swap with Amber Stults)

On today, this second day of BBAW excitement, it's all about new treasures, in which we get to interview each other. So please, let me introduce to you Amber and her blog Amber Stults: Book Reviewer and Writer. I asked her some of my favorite interview questions, and here are her answers:

1. First of all, I always like to know what got people started blogging, so tell me that story.

 Initially I thought it would be a good way to provide content for my blog in between my posts about writing. As it turns out, it’s a good way for me to better remember the books I read.

2. What are three of your favorite books so far this year?

One Good Turn by Kate Atkinson. It weaves several people's stories together in a very natural way which is really difficult to do. I know it will be a book I'll be re-reading in the future.

Little Bee: A Novel by Chris Cleave. It's truly extraordinary. I laughed and cried while reading it. It's a beautiful story about two women who seem so different on the surface but shows we all want to be happy in our lives. After reading this I had no desire to pick up anything else to read for a week.

Spellbent by Lucy A. Snyder. It's written by a local author and set in Columbus, Ohio. Lucy does a wonderful job of mixing real landmarks with the fake ones. And it's one of the few urban fantasy novels I've read where the heroine gets hurt and stays hurt.

3. And three of your favorite books of all time?

The first is To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. It's one that's stayed with me over the years and I've re-read it several times. Each reading brings new insights into the characters. 

The second book is A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius by David Eggers. It was one of the

first books I read by someone my own age and I felt like he was speaking directly to me. 

The third book would be Anne Frank's The Diary of a Young Girl. My mother introduced me to Anne Frank by giving me the copy she read when she was in high school. I read several editions of it and it's probably time for me to revisit it. After I read Francine Prose's book about Anne Frank, of course.

4. What five authors (dead or alive of course) would you like to invite for a lunch date?

 This is such a wonderful question and a difficult one to answer. I think an interesting lunch date would include Francine Prose, Anne Frank, Margaret Atwood, Dave Eggers and Joss Whedon. They all have themes of human and women's issues in their writings.

5. I see you are a writer, so tell us about that... what do you write? What future plans do you have? If your writing dream is fulfilled, what would it be?

I think part of my problem in getting my fiction published is I write a lot of different things. My flash fiction (generally under 1000 words) is mainly literary in nature and my novels are either literary or fantasy. It can be difficult to get my writing muscles to stay on one track. I've been writing book reviews for a few years and am now getting into interviews. My dream would be to have others read my writing and think, "I know just how that character feels."

6. What other activities are you in to besides books, reading and writing?

I like watching movies, playing Texas Hold'Em, baking, and hanging out with my husband and Corgi.

7. Describe your perfect day.

 A perfect day would include sleeping in, eating some ricotta pancakes and bacon for breakfast, spending the day with my husband (we often spend time together just reading or talking), attending a book reading and having Michael Symon over to cook dinner for us. (That way we don't have to drive to Cleveland for his cooking!)

8. If you could read yourself into a story (as they do in Inkheart) what story would it be?

 I couldn't pick one. Everything I read is full of emotional conflict or has scary monsters.

9. What five book blogs do you visit the very most?

This year I finally started using Google Reader so I would remember to visit some of my favorite book bloggers with more regularity. I have about a dozen feeds in my reader. Five include Bermudaonion, Maw Books, Fyrefly's Book Blog, Damian Daily, and Savvy Verse and Wit.

10. What are some of your favorite book blogging events/challenges/memes/phenomenas/author encounters have you participated in this past year?

I haven't been to many author readings this year which I'll need to rectify. Those are always fun. Last October I met Francine Prose and felt like a schoolgirl meeting her hero. Bloggiesta is always a good time and this year I've been pretty good about participating in the Mailbox Monday meme.


Thanks so much Amber for all your fun answers! Be sure to drop by her blog to see what questions she asked me.

BBAW Giveaway: The Maze Runner

I rarely do giveaways, but being a part of the BBAW festivities is something I do want to participate in, so last night it finally hit me what book I'd like to giveaway:

The Maze Runner by James Dashner

I will be seeing him next week at our library and will get the book personally signed for the winner before sending it on. This is a worldwide giveaway. The winner will be randomly selected at midnight (US Eastern Time) on Sunday September 19 and announced on the blog here Monday morning, the 20th. 

Please fill out the form with your info in order to enter. As part of this giveaway I'm also asking the burning question: How did you feel about Mockingjay? I would love to gather some sort of statistic to determine where most of us fall on this important issue! So hopefully I've given enough choices so you can click on something that describes your feelings the closest.

Thanks for participating!! Be sure to check out all the other giveaways at this BBAW link.

BBAW: First Treasure (Newly Discovered Blogs)

The minds in charge of Book Blogger Appreciation Week have come up with a wonderful theme for the week: A Treasure Chest of Infinite Books and Infinite Blogs! Each day we are to post about a treasure with regarding to reading and blogging.

Today's suggestion is to talk about a first treasure, or in other words a newly discovered book blog! Ah, where to start! I'm assuming this means a "new to us" book blog and not necessarily "new" book blog... but perhaps I'll just go ahead and mention both!

A "new to me" blog that I've really connected with recently is Ibeeeg (Deanna) from Polishing Mud Balls. (How's that for a fun name! She explains it on her sidebar.) We discovered each other because of our mutual personal quest to read The Eye of the World series by Robert Jordan. It's quite the undertaking and we need to cheer each other on! She makes wonderful awesome comments and we've had some pretty fun comment discussions about the characters  in those books.

Then we realized we were both reading the Queen's Thief series also! Not only that, but we realized we both have a Muse obsession and lots of other similar music and book tastes. Don't you love it when that happens?

Other things about Deanna is that she is doing a Bible reading challenge which I find very brave, and she is a mom of a big and busy family, something I can quite relate to. But most especially I love that she has one of those very conversational blogs, you know, the ones where it feels like you are right there with her, just talking as friends. I'm so happy to have found her and her blog this past year!

Other blogs I must mention as favorite "new" and "new to me" blogs since last year:

Leah from Amused by Books
Jan at Eating Y.A. Books
Danielle from There's a Book
Tif from Tif Talks Books
Kika from The Book Bluff
Jenni from Jenni Elyse
Debbie from Cranberry Fries

And that's just a few of the favorites I've discovered this year! And I'm sure it won't be the last!

What blogs have you discovered this year?