tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60956139386077252682024-03-14T11:44:28.368+08:00Paperbookworm - Books, reviews and ratings of Iris B.Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.comBlogger25125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-34956907056912898492010-07-15T21:47:00.000+08:002012-07-17T21:49:28.211+08:00The Devil Wears Prada<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>by Lauren Weisberger</b><br />
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As much as I enjoyed the movie more, the literary work is equally entertaining in its own right. I could say they are both great but I cannot truly compare the book and movie on a same wavelength.<br />
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For one, the movie is the gist of the book. It was visually appealing and Anne Hathaway as Andrea is easier to picture and brings the story to life with her charm. The book, on the other hand, is beyond detailed of course and this being descriptive is the axiomatic reason why I find weaving the picture of high couture better, lacing each chapter with Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Dolce and Gabbana and all the other glory of dearly-worn brands.<br />
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<b>Rating: 4 stars - </b>The implications of Andrea's highs and lows as Miranda Priestly's assistant is something that makes this whole story addictive. In the movie, I found Andrea sympathetic and captivating. In the book, however, I find her stark and aggressive and at times, overly complaining. But don't get me wrong: the plot is what makes this work. I think what makes the readers grasp the idea is its ability to engage the audience to relate to the protagonist whilst making her way up to the ladder of life.<br />
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This is a must-read not only for people who are into the fashion world, but if you have patience for descriptive works... this is the book for you.Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-39953966508984249252010-06-08T15:21:00.006+08:002010-06-08T18:14:34.990+08:00Veronika Decides To Die<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7KONJFcvgB_BG_pBnABegwDUiioHYCRyxtYpFSeyj47_EiiZcmOk7idgYTQbHiqxW3txyeINlenwJ-bk1zt4sdxJJ3lcgwUzTtJghoR4V9afZZmOMzPLeAnRdHiplG-jOSQ8Zs342niSH/s1600/veronika.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 165px; height: 255px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7KONJFcvgB_BG_pBnABegwDUiioHYCRyxtYpFSeyj47_EiiZcmOk7idgYTQbHiqxW3txyeINlenwJ-bk1zt4sdxJJ3lcgwUzTtJghoR4V9afZZmOMzPLeAnRdHiplG-jOSQ8Zs342niSH/s320/veronika.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480320151787943378" /></a><br /><p><strong>by Paulo Coelho</strong></p><p>I've been <em>trying</em> (or should I say struggling, stress on the word) to read this book for over a year and I haven't been successful in finishing it. One day I'll put it down then the other day I'll pick it up then put it down. Finally I had a chance to understand what the public is raving about this.</p><p>Veronika is a young girl from Ljubljana, Slovenia who had everything anyone could hope for - good and attractive physique, steady job, loving family and a lot of admirers. But it seems she wasn't contented with that when she tried to commit suicide on a winter morning by overdosing on sleeping pills.</p><p>Veronika then wakes up at a local mental hospital called Villete where the doctor tells her that her heart is damaged and she'll die soon within a week.</p><p>I admit the topic of suicide doesn't really appeal to me, so I was hesitant to read this book (though I got it from Bookmooch!). However as the pages turn I find more and more fascinating thoughts contained - like realizations of life and death. People in Villete have been curious with Veronika's case and instead of accepting her imminent fate, Veronika has surprisingly found herself struggling to live.</p><p>What I liked most from Paulo Coelho's book is that it presented awareness - awareness of life and awareness that we don't have the eternity of time wasting it without knowing its true essence. The characters in the book are also interesting; the downside is that this is slower to read than expected but don't get me wrong: the slow points are the biographical background of each major character involved so I can't imagine any other way that Paulo Coelho would write it.</p><p><strong>Rating: 3 1/2 stars</strong></p>Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-66000419184207984832010-06-03T21:47:00.001+08:002010-06-06T22:10:10.305+08:00A Bend In The Road<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.coverbrowser.com/image/bestsellers-2006/2829-1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 175px; height: 275px;" src="http://www.coverbrowser.com/image/bestsellers-2006/2829-1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><strong>by Nicholas Sparks</strong><p>Another brilliant work from my favorite author Nicholas Sparks, comes a story that rooted from tragedy.</p><p>Miles Ryan regretted the day that he disappointed his wife Missy, causing a heated confrontation that ended with the latter walking out. That night was the last time they saw each other as Missy was killed in a hit-and-run accident, leaving him and his son Jonah alone. Two years later and still no answer, Miles was desperate to seek justice for his wife's killer even so considering that he is the town's sheriff.</p><p>Everything was set aside when she meets Sarah Andrews, a charming young woman who moved in the little town of New Bern hoping to build a fresh start after coping up from a bad marriage that ended in a divorce. She then teaches at the local preschool where Jonah studies and this sparks up a connection with the boy's father. Miles and Sarah seem to hit it off, but little did they know that they are bound by a shocking secret that will compel them to re-evaluate everything that they had especially their love.</p><p>I had expected it to be all out on romance but this one's different from the Nicholas Sparks novels I've read. Mixed with both romance and suspense, it's also a delight for me to know it's a bit on the criminal investigation side. If you're fan of police investigations and mysteries, surely you'd want to consider reading this book.</p><p><strong>Rating: 4 stars</strong></p>Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-40636542440461928792010-04-17T15:26:00.003+08:002012-07-17T22:12:49.865+08:00The Notebook<br />
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<strong>by Nicholas Sparks</strong><br />
In the beginning, there is a man in a hospital, faithfully reading a faded notebook to refresh his wife's memory who suffers from Alzheimer's Disease - theirs is a love story that will prove love can cross beyond boundaries. As the old man reads the notebook, another story unfolds between young lovers Noah Calhoun and Allie Nelson.<br />
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Set around summer in the beautiful quaint town of North Carolina in 1946, Noah and Allie were teenagers madly in love. Allie's parents liked Noah as a person but they were downright blunt saying he wasn't fit for her because of his social status. They want someone from a well-known family and has a stable lifestyle that could sustain Allie's future life. When the Nelsons leave the town (they stayed there just for a vacation), Allie has also left her image impressed in Noah's heart. Little did they know that the old house in the place they frequently visit will change the course of their life forever.<br />
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Years later, Allie got engaged to a man named Lon while Noah who still remained in North Carolina renovated the old house to perfection. He was the talk-of-the-town in the newspapers and so one day, as Allie was preparing for her wedding she saw a clip ad on the newspaper heralding Noah's success.<br />
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Now the question for this is, "will Allie give in to the call of love's second chance? And how will Noah react if Allie comes back to town?"<br />
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I had watched the film first before reading the book and I must say that it had given me a decent amount of visuals to help me imagine how the whole atmosphere should be. Reading the context however, was more detailed - the town is as beautiful as it was in the movie, but Allie and Noah <em>(Rachel McAdams & Ryan Gosling)</em> were much alive now in my mind thanks to the film. I cried, laughed, ached and rejoiced all throughout. There was easy connection with the characters as Allie was a painter (I deal with the field of arts) and Noah was a poet (I used to be a writer way back when I was in highschool) so to say, I had a smooth ride reading the story.<br />
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As the climax builds up, the flow of narration will hold your breath in suspense and surely you'll end up cheering for both love stories (the old couple + Noah & Allie) which are intertwined by the notebook.<br />
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<strong>Rating: 5 stars - </strong>Nicholas Sparks has done it again. He has been my favorite author and based from the handful of novels I read from him he doesn't disappoint. If you haven't seen the film, the movie or whichever, I recommend you to start with this or A Walk To Remember to give you a clear idea of how great of a writer he is.Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-43874289744835842532010-04-05T22:43:00.003+08:002010-06-06T13:43:32.451+08:00Colibrí<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0440420520.01._SX140_SY225_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 137px; height: 225px;" src="http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0440420520.01._SX140_SY225_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><strong>by Ann Cameron</strong><br /><p>I bought this book for a cheap price at National Bookstore, just planning to list it at <a href="http://bookmooch.com/">Bookmooch</a> but somehow at a later time I got myself to open and read it.</p><p>It's about a girl named Tzunún, who was nicknamed Colibrí by her mother. The story begins when at a young age of four she was kidnapped from her parents in Guatemala. Since then she has been with Uncle, an ex-soldier and a vagabond beggar who claimed to adopt her and then changed her name to Rosa. Uncle was determined to keep Rosa in his custody with the belief that she will bring him big fortune as predicted by the fortuneteller from one of the towns they settled in.</p><p>Rosa, who later realized that Uncle is doing bad things (lies, thefts, connivance with a criminal) and is using her to make up his living tried to escape him and sought help from the fortuneteller; she even asked to adopt her to keep her safe from Uncle. Her adventure and experience as a child will move you in ways, each page leading to the truth about her real life.</p><p><strong>Rating: 3 stars - </strong>I recommend this book to everyone especially for teens aged 10-12 - there are lessons to be told, and values to be picked up. The flow of the story is quite fast-paced and then slow-mo at times. The ending's a bit cliché yet it will manage to get to your understanding how everything comes in full circle.</p>Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-60098211411323652642009-05-26T19:03:00.005+08:002009-05-27T01:12:29.624+08:00Stealing Shadows<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n16/n83051.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 162px; height: 261px;" src="http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n16/n83051.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">by Kay Hooper<br /><br /></span>This has been on my book pile for more than a year and it's only this vacation that I got the chance of reading it. Somehow it never failed me - in the sense that the story did agitate me to turn the pages and get no sleep.<br /><br />Cassie Neill is bestowed with supernatural ability to tap into the minds of killers being hunted by the L.A. police - it seems with her help it is a gift but the backfire of this responsibility is a curse for her. When she made a huge error on a wrong forecast, causing the death of an innocent child, she makes up her mind to leave L.A. to move to a small town in North Carolina in the hope of a fresh start.<br /><br />She is then startled with multiple killings in the town of Ryan's Bluff and so offered her help to solve the baffling case. Things get complicated when the sheriff didn't want to believe what she claims as 'precognition' and that she, herself, is a suspect responsible for the numerous crimes in town - some people have even believed that she was a 'witch'. The case moves rapidly, townspeople are panicking and the authority is getting desperate which leaves Cassie the burden to enter the killer's mind the soonest time possible.<br /><br />I wasn't upset due to the thickness of the book, in fact the story kept me on a good pace while maintaining suspense. The praises for this book lived up to my expectations, though I sometimes find myself rolling my eyes with how Cassie narrates her 'entry' to the killer's mind (the narration kinda pushed me off but it's okay). The height of the story's climax made me grip the book and feverishly read it until early morning: you will find yourself fallen for the red herrings thrown in the plot! But when the case of the serial killer in Ryan's Bluff was over, I felt a bit down for the thrill of the story because it somehow died as it swung the spotlight on romance.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rating: 4 stars </span>- supposedly I'm gonna make this 4 1/2 stars but because I'm not such a fan of suspense and love story mixed together (it rarely happens for me) I decided this better be just four out of five. If you love a good story to make you gasp in excitement of what's gonna happen next, here's the book you should try.Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-31589568704554942932009-05-18T23:49:00.005+08:002009-05-23T02:01:31.556+08:00Broken China<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://images.barnesandnoble.com/images/14660000/14661569.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 164px; height: 280px;" src="http://images.barnesandnoble.com/images/14660000/14661569.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">by Lori Aurelia Williams</span><br /><br />China Cup Cameron is a fourteen-year-old student struggling to fit both of her lifestyle in school and at home as a mom to her little daughter Amina. Now before you get thinking that this story might be a cliché, take time to read the first set of chapters before you make any conclusion.<br /><br />This is a tip for you readers for the reason that at first I was appalled with the idea of reading something like this - it's my first time to read a novel that revolves around teenage pregnancy and black people. Honestly I almost gave up with the book at its early stage because I am simply off with black slang language (no racism intended but this is my opinion). I can't handle the difficulty in reading the context but a good point is that it <span style="font-style: italic;">does<span style="font-style: italic;"> </span></span>reflect the true conversation and culture of black people in cities like where China lives.<br /><br />The book is all about the struggles China has to face: raising up her own child, keeping good grades at school, taking care of his uncle at home, and building a strong character for herself. All of which were put to vain when Amina suddenly dies and China has to pay for her funeral and memorial services. After seeing the amount she owes, she is forced to quit school and get a job. But what job would a fourteen-year-old girl have if she's dropped from class? Only the strip dance club downtown accepts such cases: Obsidian Queens.<br /><br />Reading the book, it seemed to me that it was more like a memoir than a novel. Lori Aurelia Williams did a good job reflecting what today's youth is more likely about. She has also effectively enumerated the consequences of pre-marital sex and the hardship of being a young mother to Amina and made you feel that China was human and not just a character in a book.<br /><br />The only thing I didn't like in the story is how dreamy or idealistic it went: Trip, Amina's biological father still turns out to be her best friend in the long run which is least likely to happen in reality. However, I must say this book has pulled me by the nose, and the lessons you will pick up will come very handy. My estimate is that I finished this book in a span of five days.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rating: 4 stars</span>Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-18984625917733456522009-05-12T23:49:00.004+08:002009-05-13T00:47:48.305+08:00A Song for Jeffrey<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://images.amazon.com/images/P/1562477544.01._BO1,130,130,130_PC_SCMZZZZZZZ_.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 114px; height: 172px;" src="http://images.amazon.com/images/P/1562477544.01._BO1,130,130,130_PC_SCMZZZZZZZ_.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">by Constance M. Foland<br /><br /></span><span>Dodie used to have fun with her brother Peter, but since he went to junior high school he changed a lot from her best friend to a boring brother. Her parents have separated too, which made matters worse. And if things couldn't get any better than that</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">, </span><span>she doesn't have <span style="font-style: italic;">real</span> friends at school.<br /><br />So when a new neighbor moves in, she's curious to know if there is any kid. And surely there is - a boy named Jeffrey. But Jeffrey isn't like any other kid who can run around and go chase Dodie. There is something that hinders him from doing so. Dodie is curious about it and soon she finds out that Jeffrey has muscular dystrophy, a type of disorder wherein he can't use his legs because they are severely weak.<br /><br />When I picked up this book, I knew it would be good - for one, it's about friendship and two, anything that concerns disease is my type of read. A story of hope, trust and kindness, A Song for Jeffrey narrates Dodie's effort to befriend Jeff. At first she almost failed but as her father tells her to count on the saying, "persistence wears down resistance", they soon became best friends.<br /><br />I laughed and cried with this book (yes, even if it was meant for young people I managed to put my heart into reading it). You will find yourself with familiar characters; there is huge role of sympathy, reminiscence and faith in this story. Looking into Dodie's point of view, I understand her worries and her curiosity, as Peter there is part of me that can't blame him to be a bit cold with Dodie especially that he's got peers of his age, and for Jeffrey I can feel his positivity all-throughout and at times, his sadness with regards to his condition.<br /><br />I recommend this book not only because it's about Jeffrey's muscular dystrophy; this book for younger readers will encourage them to look at things on a brighter side, learn to turn to prayers and seek assistance and guidance from God. This book also heightens awareness, sensitivity and proper response to such medical disorders.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rating: 3 1/2 stars </span>- I finished this book in just a span of 1 1/2 days.<br /></span>Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-33290753409797999132009-05-11T21:41:00.006+08:002009-05-22T01:06:14.433+08:00Nights in Rodanthe<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0446612707.01._BO1,130,130,130_PC_SCMZZZZZZZ_.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 112px; height: 172px;" src="http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0446612707.01._BO1,130,130,130_PC_SCMZZZZZZZ_.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">by Nicholas Sparks</span><br /><br />Another novel from the bestselling author Nicholas Sparks <span style="font-style: italic;">(A Walk to Remember, The Notebook) </span>who knows how to tug heartstrings, Nights in Rodanthe is a story that showcases unbelievable faith and romance.<br /><br />Adrienne Willis has been a divorcee for over 3 years after her husband Jack had abandoned her for another younger woman and since then, her perspective about finding a new love has been changed. She loses confidence in herself and only focused her attention to her kids. Until she tends an inn for a friend in Rodanthe, North Carolina for the weekend and meets Dr. Paul Flanner, her whole life has gone through a wonderful whirlwind that she will surely remember for a lifetime.<br /><br />Similar to other Nicholas Sparks books, Nights in Rodanthe is a very good read. Predictable, yes (I've already read <span style="font-style: italic;">Message In A Bottle </span>and <span style="font-style: italic;">A Walk to Remember </span>before this one<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span>, but it has gave me another love story to remember. The time frame in which the climax of the love affair happens is very short (it was only a weekend), but you can't tell during the course of the reading.<br /><br />There are many points of this book that I liked. Say for example, is the appreciation for the elderly and treasuring the family relationship.<br /><br />The thickness of the book might get you underestimating it, but Nights in Rodanthe could be slower to read at some points. However, all in all, I've got nothing against this but my ability to predict the ending (yet still experiencing surprises here and there). I did not even sleep just to finish this book and even if I thought I wouldn't shed a tear, it managed to break my heart especially in the coming of the last chapters. I'm sure if you've enjoyed other works of the author, you will enjoy this one too.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rating: </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">4 1/2 stars</span>Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-42404700729747160852009-05-05T04:08:00.004+08:002009-05-05T04:11:48.492+08:00When In Rome<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0345478975.01._BO1,130,130,130_PC_SCMZZZZZZZ_.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 109px; height: 172px;" src="http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0345478975.01._BO1,130,130,130_PC_SCMZZZZZZZ_.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">by Gemma Townley</span><br /><br />A very encouraging book to read. It makes you want to explore more of Rome and its culture. By the time the scenario switches to the characters flying off to Rome I can't wait to get myself there and be in St. Peter's Square, go to a coffee shop and buy a nice, warm croissant.<br /><br />The characters are believable though Georgie seems to be very vulnerable and gullible (I guess she was meant to be that way, otherwise the story won't have a plot) when it comes to Mike, and the whole concept overall is a nice catch for chick-lit readers. I started the book quite slow but once things get interesting in Rome, it paces up and I can't help but to know what's the deal.<br /><br />I have predicted a handful of mysteries (Candy's situation to be exact) but the ending still took my breath away. Thumbs up. No wonder Sophie Kinsella enjoyed this one!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rating: 3 1/2 stars</span>Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-74634228004510049482009-05-02T03:51:00.008+08:002009-05-13T00:43:52.468+08:00The Face on the Milk Carton<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.teenreads.com/art/covers/140w/0440220653.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 147px; height: 244px;" src="http://www.teenreads.com/art/covers/140w/0440220653.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">by Caroline B. Cooney</span><span><br /><br />I liked the story, it fascinated me. Although the ending was a bit short, probably because it leads to the companion book. Anyway, the story seemed to focus on the whirl of Janie's doubts if she was really kidnapped. I enjoyed reading it but I think the author should have condensed the whole story into one book instead of indicating that the others are just companions. Some people can't tell immediately what number from the series is the book they're reading.</span><br /><br />To be able to grasp the whole idea, I suggest readers take on the companions to this book such as <span style="font-style: italic;">Whatever Happened to Janie? </span>and <span style="font-style: italic;">The Voice on the Radio</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rating: </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">3 stars</span>Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-21415861808421147252009-04-18T01:27:00.002+08:002010-03-30T14:17:54.417+08:00Blind Alley<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n16/n81175.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 166px; height: 248px;" src="http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/images/n16/n81175.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">by Iris Johansen</span><br /><br />This is my first hardbound experience of an Iris Johansen book. I haven't read any of her novels before, but this turned out pretty boring. I love forensics - I'm allured by it and its concepts but this was a letdown.<br /><br />For one, the plot was simply weaved to tell a story. It did not really excite me except the fact that I have been quite a fan of Jane and Trevor's love story. I completely forgot that Jane was seventeen and Trevor was around more or less in his thirties, but he was always described as handsome (for a con man and a sleuth) so I bit the bait. At some point before halfway reading, I had an idea to dump it and read another book instead, but I wanted to finish the story as to satisfy my curiosity and leave no room for regret. Alas, I wasted my time because the ending had been so easy and fast-moving. It was hard at first to get myself to pace reading hardbounds (I think I have a weak link for them) but when I got near Blind Alley's half it seemed so easy and light.<br /><br />There had been confusions in the story. Jane is too much to decide as an adult for a seventeen-year-old girl. I understand her relation to the nightmare and Cira story but it seems her parents are always at bay and she does things independently with Trevor most of the time, as if proving she can do on her own.<br /><br />I did not like the over-all part: everything seemed to be too perfect and everyone seemed to be so skilled that it falls flat for a forensic mystery, but this had made me laugh, worry and feel smitten a bit. It really shouldn't be called an Eve Duncan Forensics Thriller but a Jane Duncan one. I think I wanted to read Countdown, but I'm hesitant about it. Blind Alley truly left me lost in blindness. The conclusion did not make up for what the narration lacked, in my opinion.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rating: </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">2 stars</span>Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-24280920853467834122009-04-11T08:05:00.010+08:002009-04-16T05:35:33.568+08:00Aftershock<a style="font-family: verdana;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41we0XpB5iL.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 144px; height: 239px;" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41we0XpB5iL.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><b>by Kelly Easton</b><br /><br />Honestly, I bought the book because I was enticed with its cover - it seemed so mysterious and vague so I thought might like it. The story revolves around Adam who lost his parents in a tragic car accident on the way home to <st1:state st="on">Rhode Island</st1:state> from a peace rally in <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Seattle</st1:place></st1:city>. You would certainly feel Adam's sorrow as he recalls what has happened to them that resulted to his parent's death.<br /><br />What I didn't understand is that how come he left his parents there lying on the pavement to cross the country by just walking away? I would certainly not do that to my parents, unless I would call for help (which Adam did not do apparently; I did not get whether he was just disoriented so he didn't do that but then again, if I was in his shoes whether disoriented or not I would STILL call for help).<br /><br />On the other hand, this book teaches some values learned from Adam's experiences as he journeys along - the people he met, the places he's explored and the impressions they leave on him. However, there are good and bad points in Aftershock: it worked on the story by means of flashback although some of the way it was presented was drastic, the reader could not distinguish whether Adam was in reality or was he recalling a memory. But I guess it's just the nature of Adam's experience: shocking and mind-swifting. I think even though he has been weary, he enjoyed the journey as he struggles to get home because he has certainly learned a lot from it.<br /><br />A very good example is this line that I loved from the book, <b>"People separate themselves from each other by so many things: race, gender, religion, class. But on my travels, I learned to distinguish people by the only thing that really matters: kindness."</b><br /><br /><b>Rating: 3 stars</b><o:p></o:p><p></p>Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-19043561014863612992008-02-25T19:19:00.002+08:002008-02-25T19:42:04.944+08:00Message In A Bottle<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.readinggroupguides.com/guides/covers/0446606812.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 141px; height: 206px;" src="http://www.readinggroupguides.com/guides/covers/0446606812.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">by Nicholas Sparks<br /><br /></span><span>Have you ever once lost faith in the power of love? Nicholas Sparks proves to you that love conquers all in this spectacular love story after his bestselling novel, <span style="font-style: italic;">The Notebook</span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;">. </span>Theresa Osbourne is a Boston Times writer and the type of woman who believes that once hurt you'll be more likely to get hurt again. She's a single mother, divorced and has a 12-year-old son named Kevin whom her other dates tend to take for granted. But Theresa never took another risky leap for love because no one had ever gave her serious chances. That is until she finds the bottle.<br /><br />Washed up along the Cape Cod beach while jogging, a mysterious bottle sticking out of the seashore caught Theresa's attention. She takes it, only to find a heart-gripping letter addressed to Catherine, written by someone whose name is Garrett. Having read this and after finding two more letters in bottles washed up along beaches somewhere, Theresa is determined to find Garrett in search of also something which she hopes to revive her lost belief in romance.<br /><br />She intended only to meet and greet the wonderful author of the mysterious love letters. But little did Theresa know that the letters would be the keys to her journey to love.<br /><br />I could say that this book took my heart away. This was one book you couldn't put down - unless you really have to go to the bathroom. But even though, I still took this book to the bathroom because the story is heartwarming that even if you think that it is likely to be predictable, you would still find yourself holding the book till the end, determined to finish it. The plot is greatly arranged and small details weren't left out. However, the tempo of the story seemed to be a bit fast especially at the point where Garrett and Theresa fell in love with each other. You couldn't believe how fast the events were given that Garrett was a husband who just lost his wife to some accident three years ago.<br /><br />Given the characters and over-all score, this book gets two thumbs up! The characters were well-casted and the story tickles the human interest for bottles travelling the ocean. You will even see yourself believing Sparks' narration about bottles.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rating: 4 1/2 stars</span><br /><span></span>Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-65094934215571509422007-09-18T21:04:00.000+08:002007-09-23T16:57:24.276+08:00K-PAX<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/0747557527.02._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 131px; height: 202px;" src="http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/0747557527.02._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">by Gene Brewer<br /><br /></span><span>This book was brimming of information - from psychology to reality. It was a masterpiece brought by Gene Brewer. The story moved me to inspiration and it gave me a better look at the world.<br /><br />The plot revolved around 'prot' - a patient of Manhattan Psychiatric Institute who claims that he was an extra-terrestrial being from the planet he calls K-PAX. He was found in a bus terminal in New York and thus confined to MPI because of this belief.<br /><br />I watched the movie first before the book so it gave me a very clear idea of what I would be reading now. When I started flipping the pages of K-PAX, I was pretty amazed that the plot went goes smoothly and almost everything were interconnected. The book focused more on the psychological aspect because Dr. Gene Brewer, one of the protagonist, aimed to find out and reveal prot's true identity and prove to him that he was merely but a human.<br /><br />I loved prot's character. He was such a fascinating man (otherwise, if he isn't then he's a K-PAXian) because of his intelligence regarding astronomy. He presents his perception of the reality that humans don't realize. I liked the fact when he said that: (not really his exact words) <span style="font-style: italic;">"Crazy people are not really insane. They are just simply different from the majority. And if they were the majority, we would be the crazy people in their perspective."<br /><br /></span>The book was really satisfying and moving. It triggered some of my doubts as a human. prot was such interesting that you'd love to have a character like him in a book. This is the kind of book that I don't want to put down. When I finished K-PAX though, I was really disappointed and at the same time, elated to have ended it. The ending solved just some of the questions but the majority of the conflicts presented will leave you hanging till the end.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rating: 5 stars</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span>Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-84676761918778072712007-09-08T22:44:00.000+08:002007-09-10T19:38:11.164+08:00Here's to You, Rachel Robinson<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/0440219744.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 127px; height: 213px;" src="http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/0440219744.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">by Judy Blume<br /><br /></span>Rachel Robinson is a straight-A student and is often referred to by other people especially her friends as 'genius' or 'perfect'. But ever since her brother Charles came back from his school because he was expelled, she's now referred to by him as 'the child prodigy'.<br /><br />Rachel knows that Charles would mean trouble at home and that he would be a big obstacle to her. When he finally comes home, things at the Robinson's residence swerved to a change: Mom and Dad is having a hard time with Charles, Jess is struggling to battle Charles' insults regarding her severe cystic acne and Rachel - well she's more than irritated as Jess is.<br /><br />But at the least good thing, her brother brought some benefits: he's having a tutor come by at the Robinsons who becomes Rachel's new crush, and having ninth grader Jeremy Dragon around.<br /><br />When things start to change, surprises pop up: Jess got a job in Mrs. Hirsch's travel agency whose daughter was Steph, one of Rachel's best friends. She's hired to work despite the fact that most companies won't hire her due to her physical appearance. Not only does the story revolve around Rachel, but also with the people around her. Then there's Tarren, Rachel's cousin, who happens to be a single mother with her child Roddy. And having her around brings something to Rachel which she didn't expect.<br /><br />There are funny points in this story. I loved and hated its concept. There was a scene where Charles wanted to change his last name back to its origin. It was hilarious when he recited a poem in the Ellis Island (a place where the Robinson's ancestors landed from Poland) and people were starting to stare at him like some balderdash moron.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Rating: 4 1/2 stars </span>- I admired Rachel's straight-A personality. Since I am an obedient student like her I know how it feels, although she's an almost perfect student while I'm a desperate-math-moron. I also saw myself in her shoes when it comes to dealing with family problems. Although this book wasn't focused on the three girls unlike in <span style="font-style: italic;">Just As Long As We're Together</span>, this was a good story you cannot pass up.<br /><br />When I have read this book it made me think of the true value of family. Charles' character struck me the most because it was his who made a big impact on me. We were alike in some ways that I am being considered as a pain in the neck of the family (okay, so much for the drama). I could truly say I fell in love with this book and it was wonderful! Judy Blume has made it very comfortable for me to read and by the end of the book, I craved for more of it. I recommend this book to you if you're wondering how life turns around with someone almost as perfect as Rachel.Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-38521356558597533632007-09-04T00:26:00.000+08:002007-09-08T19:08:59.631+08:00Oh My Goth<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/1416524746.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 157px; height: 222px;" src="http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/1416524746.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">by Gena Showalter<br /><br /></span>Love the story of this book - it revolves around individuality of a person. Jade is the eccentric Goth girl who finds herself struggling to stand out from the crowd. Her school rival Mercedes, is getting on her nerves and she has to find a way to stop her from spreading her evil scheme. They are very opposite: Jade loves black and gothic things while Mercedes loves girlie stuffs. They are both put into shock when they learned that the principal decides that they must go to a special field trip.<br /><br />In the real world, everyone seemed to be Barbie clones. Well that's the opposite of the virtual game: now every single person is goth and they're trying to be Jade's friends. In this world, she is famous and well-appreciated. She's in total center attraction while Mercedes is looked down on and is disregarded. Jade thinks she can't handle any more of these pretensions and as much as possible get away from it all plus her only true friends don't want to talk to her. What would you do if you sought for people's acceptance and it is granted but your true friends won't talk to you?<br /><br />Now, their excursion turned out to be a virtual game that'll teach them a lot about their lives. The two find themselves clinging to each other and helping out to escape this nightmarish punishment.<br /><br />I could see myself relating to Jade because at one point in my life I decided to have my individuality. But as I read this book, it made me felt like I was in the game. The plot was good and I enjoyed the story but I got myself hanging in the end. I wish I could read more from this book. :)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rating: 4 stars</span> - This story made me laugh and envy at how things turn out to be good in the end. I love the way Jade thinks about the new boy Clarik and the ending put me to the edge of my seat.Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-42959900280374064692007-08-20T22:49:00.001+08:002007-08-20T23:42:47.843+08:00Empress of the World<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0142500593.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_V1114202332_.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 140px; height: 203px;" src="http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0142500593.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_V1114202332_.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">by Sara Ryan<br /><br /></span>Nicola Lancaster is spending the summer at the Siegel Institute Summer Program for Gifted Youth where people of different talents and skills come together, living like college students for eight weeks.<br /><br />Nic's had friends from theater and orchestra but never friends, like friends for keeps whom she can hang out with<span style="font-weight: bold;">. </span>She never had a relationship but she soon learns the complexity of it when she met Katrina the Manic Computer Chick who surprisingly also smokes but never does drugs, Isaac the Nice-Guy-Despite-Himself, Kevin the Inarticulate Composer... and Battle.<br /><br />She's this girl whom Nic meets on the first day and refers to her as Beautiful Hair Girl and is somehow the opposite of Nic. They became friends, and as days pass spending their time together they become startlingly more than friends.<br /><br />"What do you do when you think you're attracted to guys, and then you meet a girl who steals your heart?"<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span>I loved this story that it almost turned me out into a lesbian. Kidding aside, I loved Nic's character because of her constant sweetness to Battle, whom she refers to her as Empress of the World because for Nic she stands out from the rest. Nic tries to talk to Battle but there are just some points when she can't understand her. Battle's character represents the adorable and irresistable girl you'd commonly meet along the hallway, she's more of the 'action speaks louder than words' type and has really nice hair so I don't wonder much why Nic fell in love with her.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rating: 4 stars </span><span>- I just finished this today, covering 2 days. </span>The plot of the story was great. I never read anything like this before and to be honest, I liked it much although I just don't understand Battle's reason why she hooked up with another after knowing that Nic has a present for her. There are also some points where there are gentle vulgarity involved that will really make you think it's some kind of a true story. Ryan did great on this book narrating Nic's point of view and presenting the complexities of loving the same sex. I say, this is an inspirational book and a gift from Sara Ryan that should be read by teens.Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-72321371241462736442007-08-18T23:11:00.001+08:002007-08-18T23:30:09.328+08:00Conversations with the Fat Girl<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://wirelessdigest.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/conversations.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 123px; height: 191px;" src="http://wirelessdigest.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/conversations.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">by Liza Palmer<br /><br /></span>Olivia and Maggie had been best friends ever since, but after Olivia's gastric bypass surgery everything has suddenly changed and she's not whom Maggie had known long before. Olivia changes her childhood history, hangs out with uber-fashionista socialites and gets to marry Dr. Farell who doesn't know she was formerly obese.<br /><br />The two girls battle it out for their friendship: Maggie, wanting to save their genuine bond and be the best friend Olivia had all along versus Olivia, wishing to be a permanent sexy icon for her fiancé and for her <span style="font-style: italic;">new </span>friends, although at the end of the day she's running back to her childhood best friend.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rating: 3 stars </span>- I liked the story but it just had too many 'F' word, but I guess it's part of the reality scenario the author tries to imply. I'm not a fat girl; I'm the opposite of it coz' I am slim but I could relate to Maggie having this struggle against life and friendship. Maggie's character seems to be pathetic but that's the cherry of the story - she has a lot of flaws making her human. You'd be seeing yourself relating to Maggie hoping to find true love and friendship.Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-57572200385967448242007-08-18T12:14:00.001+08:002007-08-18T13:24:57.540+08:00Of Mice and Men<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0140177396.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 119px; height: 207px;" src="http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0140177396.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">by John Steinbeck<br /><br /></span>The story revolves around two unlikely men: George, who is a short and stubby man and knows what to do, and Lennie, the tall man who has a brain of a child. Together, they embark on a journey to have their own piece of land.<br /><br />They came across a job in a ranch in the Salinas Valley and it seems that their plans are within their grasp. But a shocking event came to their view: Lennie accidentally kills a woman due to his undying obedience to George and because of too much promises and goals George and him have in mind.<br /><br />The story is a bit of a confusing read, but the plot is simple. You will actually like the character of Lennie because of his childish ways, and George who has this straightforward and frank attitude. This is the first time I've read a classic work of literature, and you will not be disappointed with how the story goes. It will make you hope for George and Lennie's hopes and will make you regret that they shouldn't have dreamt of it all the while.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rating: 3 1/2 stars </span>- This piece of Steinbeck's work is my first time to read such classic works. The story at first is hazy in sight and most of their dialogs are in a cowboy accent that it became hard for me to decipher what they were saying. But you'll get used to it if you continue reading the book. The last chapters were coming to a closure and by there, you'd get the idea of the story although you might not expect what'll happen in the end. :)Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-32045045360034753952007-08-17T18:47:00.000+08:002007-08-17T20:27:30.682+08:00The Princess Diaries<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/0380814021.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 133px; height: 222px;" src="http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/0380814021.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">by Meg Cabot<br /><br /></span>Mia Thermopolis is the common type, or so she thinks. She's a flat-chested five-foot-nine freshman who happens to be flunking in Algebra - she really hates the subject.<br /><br />But a big surprise comes her way when she learns that her mom is dating her Algebra teacher, and the shocker does not only stop on that. Her dad also comes to New York to announce that she'll be the new heir to the Genovian throne. Plus, her Grandmére is coming too! And she's about to give Mia some lecturing sessions on 'how to be a princess'. But Mia doesn't want to be a princess, except for the privileges this would give. She just wants to be the same Mia, only better. But what can she do? She has no choice but to face the fact that she would be the princess of Genovia.<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family:verdana;">This book is awesome, like reading a diary from your best friend. I could relate to Mia since we both dislike Math and/or Algebra. It's kind of funny that she writes her homework in her diary. I really felt comfortable reading this one. Also, I was laughing at the fact that her best friend Lilly Moscovitz has a stalker who likes to see Lilly's feet on TV!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I recommend this book to anyone who basically dislike Algebra or generally the Math subject, has a crush inside the campus, has a best friend (but if it's okay if you don't have one), and a little feeling of inferiority that somehow makes you wish you were someone as cool as Lana Weinberger.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >Rating: 4 1/2 stars - </span><span style="font-family:verdana;">I liked the fact that this book was in a diary type and it was funny that the author used multiple punctuations! This book is fit for teens and pre-teens, it will make you happy and sad. It will make you dream and even be envious that Mia has such privileges. But the book also teaches the value of loving who you truly are and the people who stay true to you. You need not be beautiful to be appreciated because what matters most is that you love yourself.</span><br /></span>Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-10597486099098885482007-08-16T11:40:00.000+08:002007-08-19T13:05:03.901+08:00Tuesdays with Morrie: An Old Man, A Young Man, and Life's Greatest Lesson<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0307275639.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_V1136833146_.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 125px; height: 203px;" src="http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0307275639.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_V1136833146_.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">by Mitch Albom</span><br /><br />It's a true story 'bout a man of great virtue and influence. Morrie Schwartz was a former college teacher who didn't know what life was about until he suffered ALS, a sickness that eats away his life day by day. Mitch (the author) is touched by Morrie's undying perception that life doesn't end when you reach your death. The framework of the story revolves around Mitch and Morrie's sessions during Tuesdays, on which Morrie shares his wisdom about life, love, marriage, friends, family, and death.<br /><br />Although Morrie can hardly speak, he tries to talk to Mitch as often as he could to make him realize that he should value his life now more than ever before it's too late to turn back and do so. They always meet on Tuesdays at Morrie's house and are determined to finish their last thesis together - life. Sadly, Morrie died. But he died with a great life full of hopes and dreams.<br /><br />Before I end this review, let me share you one of my favorite Morrie Schwartz' quotes:<br /><br />"When you learn how to die, you learn how to live."<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rating: 5 stars - </span>My rating for this book is 5 stars! I love the book as well as the story. It has a simple cover that shows humility and the simplicity of the story as well as the life of the person featured - Morrie Schwartz. I could say Mitch Albom has done it so well to retell the story of Morrie's Tuesday sessions.<br /><br />I suggest you to read this book if you think that your life has become boring and stagnant. :)Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-23435017368500337592007-08-16T11:21:00.001+08:002007-08-17T20:07:15.182+08:00Just As Long As We're Together<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/0440210941.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 113px; height: 191px;" src="http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/0440210941.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >by Judy Blume</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family:verdana;">I liked how the story made me feel like I was really there. Judy Blume did a very good job especially when it comes to the conversations of the girls. It's like they were speaking for themselves! The way they talk (how Blume has written it) was truly convincing that the characters were teens. I kind of feel depressed for Stephanie and Alison because Rachel seems to be the perfect girl. I just didn't like how Rachel treated Stephanie just because she made friends with Alison (who claims her dog could talk). Rachel pinpointed the two as baby-ish people who can't learn to grow up. Then that's where conflict starts.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">It's a must read for teens my age. You'll love the story and how it flows and eventually ends. Judy Blume has made me convince that she should be my favorite author next to Mitch Albom. That is in my opinion. :)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >Rating: 4 1/2 stars - </span><span style="font-family:verdana;">The plot interested me to read and move on through the chapters of the book. The characters were coming out of my page and I could picture them just as the author wanted them to be. I enjoyed this book very much that's why I requested the sequel of this from Bookmooch.com</span></span>Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-73536444226039920352007-08-15T22:36:00.000+08:002007-08-16T11:39:59.807+08:00For One More Day<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.cincinnatilibrary.org/spotlight/images/ISBN1401303277.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 111px; height: 164px;" src="http://www.cincinnatilibrary.org/spotlight/images/ISBN1401303277.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">by Mitch Albom</span><br /><br />Have you ever had a moment to wish to relive a day with your mother? Chick Benetto, a fallen baseball star, who lost his life trying to commit suicide. He lost his life thinking he had been a failure, and that he had wasted it focusing on his baseball career.<br /><br />The story involves certain apparitions, flashbacks and the ghost of his mother. Actually, when I read the book, I also considered Chick as a ghost because after that moment when he tried to kill himself, he saw his dead mother in bones and flesh. Chick is still skeptical whether the scene he sees is true or not, and whether his dead mother has really come to life.<br /><br />I read the story in my longest reading period. Since I have busy schedules in school, I can't continue reading it in a breeze. I started this one in June and just finished it in early August. I loved the way how Albom describes things the way they were. He really touched my sentiments here when he presented the ghost of Chick's mother.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rating: 3 1/2 stars </span>- for its good plot and interesting story. It wasn't as great as the Tuesdays with Morrie, but it touched and inspired me somehow, and how suicide could ruin everything you've ever worked for. The last pages of the book moved me to tears but, again, not as tear-jerker as Tuesdays with Morrie and The Five People You Meet in Heaven.<br /><br />This one is for the wishful beings who thought they never had everything in life. It's meant for those who have conflict with their families, especially with their mothers. It's a good read but Mitch Albom had just been good with this one. I suggest he should not get overwhelmed by the bestselling phenomenon brought by his first book. Though, all in all... For One More Day has made it to my favorite books list.Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6095613938607725268.post-37118810956180616852007-08-08T00:21:00.000+08:002008-12-09T20:38:08.981+08:00The Five People You Meet in Heaven<a style="font-family: verdana;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcLrFpvzwgYSPGxpHuScSQj4QzJ3QIDMr1nRFR5tehUybK3X1rfabdVMnsSvq8-KrWdnbIqItAQcNVd9GW1FTe7lUhxNHxF0x3ouqDVQc3N-cWZZYp4gFktTfpH0g_cscygnxnjzcADMw3/s1600-h/five.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcLrFpvzwgYSPGxpHuScSQj4QzJ3QIDMr1nRFR5tehUybK3X1rfabdVMnsSvq8-KrWdnbIqItAQcNVd9GW1FTe7lUhxNHxF0x3ouqDVQc3N-cWZZYp4gFktTfpH0g_cscygnxnjzcADMw3/s400/five.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096000746150804322" border="0" /></a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:lucida grande;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >by Mitch Albom</span><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-family:verdana;">I loved how Mitch Albom made this story. Tuesdays with Morrie was better, but this was another addition to Albom's brilliance. If you like made-up places and heartwarming stories, this book is definitely for you.</span><br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">T</span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-family:verdana;">he story revolves around Eddie, a repairman in Ruby Pier amusement park.</span> </span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-family:verdana;">He dies in an untimely accident and was faced with questions of uncertainty with regards to his death. He sees his life as a senseless timeline of dull moments and never saw it as a precious entity given to him. As Eddie sets foot to journey in the heaven (or just an imagined piece of it), he is welcomed by a person to whom he was entrusted. Each person has a story to tell, a relation to Eddie and a lesson to unfold. They come after another when they sense that Eddie has learned a valuable lesson about his life and that his life is intertwined with other people's lives.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">The beginning was entitled </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >'The End'</span><span style="font-family:verdana;"> because according to Albom, </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:verdana;" >"All ends are beginnings, we just don't know it yet."</span><span style="font-family:verdana;"> And with this line he started his story - actually it's not </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:verdana;" >his </span><span style="font-family:verdana;">story because it was Eddie's story. Albom made another touching story here because he really hit the part where I was vulnerable. Almost all ages could relate to Albom; his stories come in handy paperbacks but you would be much surprised of what's in store.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I recommend this story to anyone who wonders what heaven would look like or what heaven is made up of. The story implies a strong message that will be engraved in our hearts. It may not be a tearjerker like Tuesdays with Morrie which made me cry over for a couple of days and still got the hangover of it till now, The Five People You Meet in Heaven would surely give you a proper lesson on the values of life and will make you realize that your life does not only revolve on you, but is also connected with others' lives.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >Rating: 4 stars - </span><span style="font-family:verdana;">The plot revealed interesting twists like how the Blue Man came to be connected to Eddie and why Eddie was working on the Ruby Pier. The story also featured my country but to keep my review from being biased, even if Albom didn't make the setting in Philippines, I would still give this book 4 stars because the plot really revealed some interesting points in Eddie's life. But I didn't like the idea of jumping from one story to another and the dialogue was kind of slow and then fast. There were some points where the conversation lasted like it wasn't supposed to be read but instead, to be spoken.</span><br /></span>Irishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02986086817725899848noreply@blogger.com3