I Now Pronounce You Someone Else by Erin McCahan

I Now Pronounce You Someone Else
Erin McCahan
Arthur A. Levine Books
Released June 1, 2010
Source: Library


Summary: Bronwen Oliver has spent years of her young life thinking that she must have been switched at birth.  With a cookie cutter mom and a perfect older brother, there is no way that she could possibly be a part of such an dysfunctional family. Fortunately, her days of longing for a happier life may be over after she falls in love with Jared Sondervan.  He comes from the type of family she has always dreamed of and introduces her to feelings she hasn't felt since the death of her father.  Now she must decide: Is she better off being Bronwen Oliver or Someone Else?


Review: I initially picked up I Now Pronounce You Someone Else because I was looking for what I expected to be a "cute" read.  I quickly found out that this book is SO much more!


Bronwen Oliver made for an extraordinary character.  She was charming and relatable.  More importantly, she was real.  In so many contemporary YA novels, the main character seems flawless.  Bronwen, on the other hand, was a typical teenager, conflicted by a desire to be loved and a need to find her true identity.  Her quests, in addition to her humorous personality, made her a multi-dimensional character, who I very much enjoyed. I excitedly cheered her on during her quest to find true happiness.  I winced along with her during each misfortune.  But most of all, I was proud to witness Bronwen's growth and final acceptance of herself.  


In addition to the characterization of Bronwen, the development of the relationship between Bronwen and Jared kept the novel moving at an appropriate pace.  It provided many sweet moments that caused me to smile and sigh.  It allowed me to see why Bronwen so quickly feel for Jared and led me to support Bronwen's ultimate decision.


While I loved the outcome of the novel's events, my only complaint is the rushed ending.  As I stately previously, the pacing throughout the novel is very well suited to the story.  It slowly unfolds, and then the ending hits you like a brick--and not due so much to unexpected events, but more so due to its abruptness.  If McCahan had slowed the ending down and allowed it to further develop, I would have been more satisfied with the conclusion.


If you are hesitant about reading I Now Pronounce You Someone Else, don't let the cover fool you.  If you think that the baby blue background and pink letters with flowers mean the content is also light and fluffy, I think you'll too be surprised at the depth that lies on the pages between the two covers.


With true-to-life characters and clear and concise writing, I recommend I Now Pronounce You Someone Else to those who are looking for a well developed YA novel with a romantic feel.


Rating: 8-You've gotta read this one!

I Am A CSN Preferred Blogger!!!

I am so excited to have been invited to review another product from CSN Stores.  CSN is home to over 200 online stores!  The many shopping sites feature everything from dining room tables to cookware to shoes and more!

Some of you may remember that in September, I was given the opportunity to review a piece of luggage from CSN Stores. It was a pleasant experience, so I am looking forward to work with CSN again!

Because CSN has so many wonderful products to choose from, I am having a terribly difficult time deciding on which one best meets my current needs/wants, which range from a bean bag chair for my classroom to wall art for my bedroom, and I really could go on and on.

Be sure to check back soon to find out which product I choose!

Maus I: A Survivor's Tale by Art Spiegelman

Maus I: A Survivor's Tale: My Father Bleeds History

Art Spiegelman

Pantheon Books

Released November 1, 1991 (first published in 1986)

Source: Purchased

Summary (from Goodreads): Some historical events simply beggar any attempt at description--the Holocaust is one of these. Therefore, as it recedes and the people able to bear witness die, it becomes more and more essential that novel, vigorous methods are used to describe the indescribable. Examined in these terms, Art Spiegelman's Maus is a tremendous achievement, from a historical perspective as well as an artistic one.

Spiegelman, a stalwart of the underground comics scene of the 1960s and '70s, interviewed his father, Vladek, a Holocaust survivor living outside New York City, about his experiences. The artist then deftly translated that story into a graphic novel. By portraying a true story of the Holocaust in comic form--the Jews are mice, the Germans cats, the Poles pigs, the French frogs, and the Americans dogs--Spiegelman compels the reader to imagine the action, to fill in the blanks that are so often shied away from. Reading Maus, you are forced to examine the Holocaust anew.

This is neither easy nor pleasant. However, Vladek Spiegelman and his wife Anna are resourceful heroes, and enough acts of kindness and decency appear in the tale to spur the reader onward (we also know that the protagonists survive, else reading would be too painful). This first volume introduces Vladek as a happy young man on the make in pre-war Poland. With outside events growing ever more ominous, we watch his marriage to Anna, his enlistment in the Polish army after the outbreak of hostilities, his and Anna's life in the ghetto, and then their flight into hiding as the Final Solution is put into effect. The ending is stark and terrible, but the worst is yet to come--in the second volume of this Pulitzer Prize-winning set.

Review: I recently decided to venture out into some genres that I had not yet experienced. One such genre was the graphic novel. I opted to read Maus because of its mixture of raving reviews and criticism.

The Maus Collection has become a contemporary classic and understandably so. A moving story backed by unforgettable images makes this one fascinating addition to any library.

One reason I steered clear of graphic novels is because I felt they may "dumb down" content and rely too heavily on pictures, or they may be too juvenile. Maus proved me wrong, as it is creative and thought-provoking, yet definitely not for young readers due to sensitive content. Another of my hesitations with reading graphic novels was because I am very easily distracted, and I felt that I would lose focus because of the images and words placed in the same frame. With Maus, I was so lost in Vladek's story, there was no possible way that anything could steal my attention.

I have read a number of texts that retell the events of the Holocaust and World War II, but Mr. Spiegelman's work moved me in a way that very few books have. He captured his father's personal experiences in a story, all while telling the story of his own research process. This invited me, as a reader, to take a more intimate look at Spiegelman's relationship with his father.

Perhaps the most intriguing thing about Maus is that even though the characters are portrayed by animals, it is so real! So often, only the positive traits of admirable people are shown. Art Spiegelman presents his father, who is truly a remarkable person, as an intelligent, heroic man, who is not without faults. The sharing of his imperfections shows that Vladek Spiegelman is not a character in a book, but rather a genuine human being, and in my opinion, it made this graphic novel even more engaging.

After reading Maus, I took a more in depth look at some of the criticism Spiegelman has received. While some felt this book gave an inaccurate portrayal of the Holocaust, the thing to remember is that this is his father's personal account, and I, for one, am so glad he shared it with the world.

Honest, suspenseful, and inspiring, Maus is a one-of-a-kind novel that I highly recommend to mature readers.

*Usually upon the completion of a novel that I truly enjoy, it typically takes its place on my shelf, so that it can remain in its precious, like new condition. The day after I completed this unique read, I passed it along to a friend, as it is a book that should not sit unmoved on a bookshelf, but instead should be read continuously. I will be sharing this book with other readers until it completely falls apart, at which point, I'll run out to buy another copy!

Rating: 9-You've gotta read this one!

I Can't Keep My Own Secrets: Six Word Memoirs by Teens Famous & Obscure

I Can't Keep My Own Secrets: Six Word Memoirs by Teens Famous & Obsure

Edited by Smith Magazine

HarperTeen

Released September 1, 2009

Source: ARC received from publisher

Summary (from Amazon): One life. Six words. What's yours?

True tales of love, loss, good friends, and bad hair days filled Not Quite What I Was Planning, the New York Times bestselling first book in the Six-Word Memoir series—and an international phenomenon. Some of the most compelling were by teens, so now SMITH Magazine has compiled a book written entirely by these bold, brash truth-tellers. From cancer to creativity, prom dates to promiscuity, and breaking hearts to breaking laws, the memoirs in this collection reveal that often the youngest writers have the most fascinating stories to tell.

Met online; love before first sight.

Hair's pink to piss you off.

I fulfilled my awkwardness quota today.

I'm seventeen, engaged, and not pregnant.

My mom had my boyfriend deported.

Late for school every single day.

According to Facebook, we broke up.

Review: I received I Can't Keep My Own Secrets for review ages ago, and I now see that I was certainly missing out by not reading it sooner. Creatively telling the life stories of teenagers by the teenagers themselves in only 6 words, this collection of memoirs captured my attention.

Even though the teens were only allotted six words, each painted an accurate picture of what the lives of today's teenagers truly entail. Some of their stories were witty. Others told emotional tales of tragedies. Many of the memoirs were uplifting and gave a peek of hope, while others forced me to laugh out loud.

This collection is absolutely impressive and excites me about the futures of our young people. These short, intimate glimpses into the lives of teenagers are sure to be enjoyed by people of all ages.

I Can't Keep My Own Secrets will remain on my shelves as a favorite, and it is definitely a book I will be rereading many more times to come!

Rating: 9-You've gotta read this one!

Just for fun, a few six word memoirs from me:

Blessed newlywed loving my AMAZING husband

I eat sweets before bed nightly

Teenager at heart, license reads twenty-seven

The Education of Bet-One Question Tour with Lauren Baratz-Logsted

Today I am pleased to welcome Lauren Baratz-Logsted back to Shalonda's Blog for an interview question on her One Question Tour. Lauren is the author of the upcoming The Education of Bet, which will be released on July 12th.

Summary of The Education of Bet (from Amazon): When Will and Bet were four, tragic circumstances brought them to the same house, to be raised by a wealthy gentleman as brother and sister. Now sixteen, they’ve both enjoyed a privileged upbringing thus far. But not all is well in their household. Because she’s a girl, Bet’s world is contained within the walls of their grand home, her education limited to the rudiments of reading, writing, arithmetic, and sewing. Will’s world is much larger. He is allowed—forced, in his case—to go to school. Neither is happy.

So Bet comes up with a plan and persuades Will to give it a try: They’ll switch places. She’ll go to school as Will. Will can live as he chooses. But once Bet gets to school, she soon realizes living as a boy is going to be much more difficult than she imagined.

And now for today's question...

If you could travel back in time and visit the Victorian Era, what is the first thing you would do?

LBL: Make sure there's indoor plumbing! Yes, I like to go camping, but if we're talking long-term usage...I want modern conveniences!

Thank you so much, Lauren, for allowing me to be a stop on your tour! I totally agree; there's no better invention than indoor plumbing!

Be sure to visit Lauren's stop at Eleni's blog, La Femme Readers in case you missed it yesterday. Tomorrow you can find her at Julie's blog, Bloggers Heart Books.

I Am Officially a Mrs.

Yep, that's right! I married the love of my life on Saturday and had the best time ever! My day was even better than I had expected. Everything turned out lovely and I was surrounded by so many family members and friends.

I promised pictures, and thanks to Vania, the photos she snapped are available for viewing at Vania's Life Captures. I expect to post pictures taken by my photographer, as well as my sister, as soon as they become available.

Until then check out Vania's photography (she's just so fabulous, and she, Kelsey, and Tori looked AMAZING on Saturday!!!).

48 Hour Book Challenge Finish Line

So at 9:35 PM, the 48 Hour Book Challenge ended for me. I originally set a goal of 20 hours and provided a list of the books I planned to read.

I fell 14 hours short and did not finish any of the books I planned to read. I did however finish one book and read from two others.

I started the challenge with Zetta Elliott's A Wish After Midnight. I read 56 pages before I decided to put it away. I felt myself rushing so that I could reach my goal, and A Wish After Midnight is not a book you want to rush through. I enjoyed what I read so much that I wanted to save it for after the challenge so I could take my time while reading it.

Today I moved onto I Can't Keep My Own Secrets: Six-Word Memoirs By Teens Famous and Obscure. I LOVED this one and it was the perfect book to push me through the challenge.

I then began Maus by Art Spiegelman. This is the first graphic novel I've ever read (I checked one out of the library before, but never got around to reading it). I only read 73 pages before my time ran out, but I will be finishing this one tonight.

I'm disappointed with my numbers for the challenge (though I always hate numbers), but the challenge has excited me, and I will make more time for reading because I feel like I have been missing out on some good material during my hiatus. That said, expect to be hearing more from me very soon!

Time Spent Reading: 5 Hours

Time Spent Blogging/Reviewing: 1 Hour

Total Time: 6 Hours

Total Number of Pages Read: 311

Thanks to MotherReader for hosting the challenge. I had a great time and am looking forward to the next 48 Hour Book Challenge!

48 Hour Book Challenge: Update 2

So you may have noticed I haven't posted an update since my 12 hour mark. The reason being, I have done a pathetic job at reaching my goal of 20 hours.

I joined in on the challenge because I wanted a wedding planning free weekend and wanted to get back to reading and blogging. That idea went out the window yesterday when I realized I had wedding related errands to run. Immediately after, I received a sweet phone call from my future mother-in-law that inspired me to work on a few minor wedding details. What was originally supposed to be three hours of work turned into a whole day of planning. I worked on wedding stuff until 2 AM, when I decided I should finally go to bed.

I am hoping to hit the books hard for the remaining 10 hours of the challenge (Yes, I will finish this challenge), and I am crossing my fingers I won't get interrupted or become too distracted.

Books Read: 0

Pages Read: Still far too low to report

Hours Read: 2 (Yep, that means I only read for 20 minutes yesterday. ARGH!!!)

24 Hour Book Challenge: Update 1

Okay, so I'm at hour 12--Did I just say hour 12? Yes. If you refer to the start time on my previous post, you'll sadly recognize that I started later than I anticipated.

I officially started at 9:35 PM last night, and now 12 hours later, I am embarrassed to report that I only read for 1 hour and 40 minutes. :-(

Because I did not decide to participate until yesterday evening, I missed out on the opportunity to take a nap. That said, I am not much of a night owl and was too tired to carry on.

But that's okay, I'll make up for it today!

Books Read: 0

Pages Read: Far too low to report yet (I am a SLOW reader)

Time Read: 1 Hour 40 Minutes

48 Hour Book Challenge: Can You Believe I'm Doing This???

It's been three months since I last posted, and it feels like forever! It is such a crazy idea that I am going to spend this weekend participating in the 48 Hour Book Challenge, considering I have so much to do!!! But I've missed the book blogging community so much and figured this was the best way to get back on track and communicate with you all about something other than my wedding plans (Trust me, once it's over, I will let you all know in a special post). That said, I am going to spend 48 hours, beginning at 8:30 pm tonight, reading and reviewing!!!

I am way behind on reviewing, so below is a list of books that I plan to read, and hopefully I will make it through them all without getting too distracted!

The Sky Is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson

A Wish After Midnight by Zetta Elliot

Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins

Freaksville by Kitty Keswick

The Clearing by Heather Davis

And if I read and review each of those before my 48 period is up, I hope to read these for fun (but will also post reviews):

The Karma Club by Jessica Brody

The Not-So-Star-Spangled Life of Sunita Sen by Mitali Perkins (originally The Sunita Experiment)

Crank by Ellen Hopkins

My plan is to read for at least 20 hours of the 48 hour period. Wish me luck!

Celebrity Authors

When I was growing up (I'm an 80s baby), authors were men and women who had a special way with words. They had a story to tell and practiced their craft diligently.

These days, everyone thinks he/she can become an author. From non-fiction by Tori Spelling (which I enjoyed) to realistic fiction (if you grew up in Laguna Beach) by Lauren Conrad, it seems that if your name is recognized by a majority of the public population, you're guaranteed a book deal.

Today's YA news includes that of Hilary Duff signing a book deal with Simon & Schuster. Smart move on the publisher's part because it is guaranteed to sell a number of books to those fans who grew up watching Hilary Duff on television and the silver screen, but I'm a little irked by this.

I don't know if Hilary Duff is a talented writer, so I am not going to make prejudgements on her writing ability. I may or may not read the book; only time will tell. But my heart goes out to all those fabulous people who put their blood, sweat, and tears into crafting their writing day after day. Many of whom may never be published. Many of whom may end up with disappointing book sales due to lack of publicity.

I'm sure Hilary Duff is going to have a huge marketing plan with signings, interviews on major networks, etc., which will rake in tons of cash. And I'm not saying it's not deserved (I actually find her refreshing and genuine), but when will this celebrity book trend end?

Developing a novel takes creativity, passion, and devotion. The men, women, teenagers (Go Steph Bowe!), and children who write for fun or for a living are remarkable people and they deserve to have their stories read by many. I'm glad to see books being advertised on television and in major magazines, but when will a truly deserving author (other than Stephanie Meyer or Stephen King) appear on the cover?

I do have books written (perhaps ghostwritten) by celebrities, like Lauren Conrad and Tyra Banks, so I'm not saying down with celebrity authors. I want to see amazing authors like Walter Dean Myers, Elizabeth Scott, Jen Echols, and John Green on the covers of major magazines and newspapers (heck, I'll settle for inside--but not just in the book section) when they have exciting book news or receive a new accolade. I long for a world where we're not driven only by celebrities, but by normal people who make a difference in the lives of others be it through music, writing, community service, etc.

I want to know: What are your thoughts on celebrity authors? Have you read any books written by celebrities? Do you think you'll read Duff's novel?

You may have noticed...

You may have noticed that I have been neglecting my blog lately. While I have been reading, the books have all been about weddings. With my wedding now less than four months away, I have been in a frenzy making sure everything will be perfect for the big day. Though my wedding is currently my number one priority, there will be reviews sometime in the near future. Until then, happy reading to you all!!!

Spotlight on Kristin Walker

Today I am so excited to have Kristin Walker on the blog for a Q & A. Kristin is the debut of the hilarious debut novel, A Match Made in High School, which is out is stores TODAY!!!

How did you decide to write for a YA audience?

I actually worked my way up to YA. I started out writing picture book manuscripts many years ago, and just kept moving higher and higher in age-group until I finally sold a book. If I'd known how fantastic it is to write for teens, I would've started there first!

What part of the writing process do you find most fun?

I love getting the first glimmer of an idea, and I love finishing the manuscript. Everything in between is slightly more difficult to deal with.

Collaborations seem to be gaining popularity in YA. If you could collaborate with another author, with whom would you choose to write?

For a YA, I'd chose Kristina Springer (THE ESPRESSOLOGIST). She's such a riot to be around, and I just love her work. Plus, she lives about 25 minutes away from me! So awesome.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of being a Tenner?

As a Tenner and a former Deb, I can tell you that the most rewarding thing by far is the opportunity to become friends with so many incredibly talented authors. They're all so fun! It's been amazing.

What are three upcoming or newly released YA novels that you would suggest to teen (or teens for life, like me) readers?

Only three? ACK! Okay, for ones along the same lines as mine...

1. THE ESPRESSOLOGIST, by Kristina Springer
2. PRADA & PREJUDICE by Mandy Hubbard
3. STUPID CUPID by Rhonda Stapleton

Fill in the blanks:

I first knew I was a writer when I held my first writing-earned paycheck. It was for a poem I sold for $10.

The hardest job I've ever had besides being a mom and a writer? Hmm... I guess when I was a lifeguard at an apartment complex pool in high school. One summer, the temps were above 90/100 degrees for like three weeks in a row. And I found a huge rat swimming in the pool, one morning. Good times...

The craziest thing I ever did in high school was skip a class and walk down the road to the local convenience store with my friend, Anita. Of course, we got in trouble when we got back. Typical.

My high school class most remembers me as a dork.

In one word, A Match Made in High School is funny!

Thanks so much Kristin and congrats on your release!

If you've not yet visited Kristin's website, take the time to do so. It is full of personality, music, and other fun stuff (the picture from above is courtesy of Kristin's fabulous site). Honestly, it's the best I've seen yet!

Spotlight on Bonnie Doerr

I am very excited to welcome Bonnie Doerr, author of Island Sting. Bonnie's novel is the first book published by Leap Books and I am tickled to have her on the blog today! Get to know a little more about this fascinating lady by reading on...

You have lived in a number of different places. How do you feel your many surroundings have impacted your writing?

It’s true. I’ve lived in eight widespread states and sometimes in several places within the same state. You wouldn’t believe the number of accents I hear when I’m writing! I work to silence them on the page so readers don’t

get confused about where they are and who’s talking. So far I’ve kept the Texas twang and Georgia drawl quiet. But they’re itching to come out.

What has been the most exciting or most nerve wrecking thing about being the first author published by Leap Books?

I don’t really feel like the first author because I have two close Leap sisters, Kitty Keswick and Judith Graves. We’ve all been thrilled and nervous together. Bless them. Speaking for myself, it’s an amazing honor. It has been a tad hairy launching so soon after the holidays when businesses slowed down and some work deadlines had to stretch. But Leap Books is an amazing new publisher and their personnel really care about us as individuals, not bottom line numbers.

How much of Island Sting came from your personal experiences? What other research did you complete to make the novel an accurate representation of ecology in the Florida Keys?

Researching Island Sting was so much fun. Any scene where Kenzie and Angelo explore the island environment was probably based on personal experience. I enjoyed many days on the water as well as under it. There were days when I took notes while I observed the deer and their antics, as well as when I interviewed people living in national refuge neighborhoods. I also spent time with the National Key Deer Refuge personnel and contacted Texas researchers by phone and email.

Environmental thrillers are very rare in the YA genre. Why do you feel it was important to get Island Sting into the hands of readers?

I know it’s true that these books are rare, and I just don’t get that. After Carl Hiassen’s Hoot won the Newbery Honor I attended an SCBWI conference where I asked an editor if she thought this “new” genre was a trend. She said, “No, it’s just a fluke.” Well, that kind of slowed me down. Thank goodness it didn’t slow Carl! But why are historical novels popular and environmental ones not? In one the reader has fun while accidentally learning history. In the other the fun sneaks in environmental science. And that sneaking in environmental awareness is the answer to your second question.

What advice do you have for teens who, like you, love nature and want to become more proactive in saving the environment?

I don’t want to get all preachy here. There are many green teen organizations popping up and environmental clubs at schools. I’d say start by joining one of these social organizations so that anything you do is fun as well as relevant. Many schools require community service. Earn your hours outdoors. Volunteer at an animal shelter or zoo. Is there a therapeutic horseback riding school near you? Volunteer there. Clean up streets and streams. The more time you spend with green teens outdoors, the more proactive ideas come your way. It’s like you begin to hear Mother Nature call your name.

Fill in the blanks:

If I could have dinner with a famous person, I would dine with First Lady, Michelle Obama. Maybe some of her grace, wisdom, and intelligence would rub off on me.

People would be surprised to know that I just remarried my ex- husband after twenty years of marriage to a different man. I can no longer refer to him as my “once and future husband.”

The animal I share the most characteristics with is the mule. This was the immediate response of my husband because I’m hard-working and stubborn. If only he’d said Clydesdale…

In my opinion, the most important word in the human language is hope. Think of all its usages: trust, expectation, optimism, dream, faith. If we could prevent the attachment of the suffix less to it we’d have the perfect word.

Lovers of YA should read Island Sting because it’s an inexpensive trip to paradise, and it won’t give you nightmares, just sweet dreams. You’ll hang out with intriguing, intrepid, fun-loving teens who successfully tackle challenges adults haven’t been able to master. Oh, and you just might experience your first crush while you’re at it.

Thank you so much for participating, Bonnie! You can find out more out Bonnie at her website or on the LeapBooks site.

Above photo is from Bonnie's website.

The Secret Year by Jennifer Hubbard

The Secret Year

Jennifer Hubbard

Viking

Published January 7, 2010

Source: ARC received from publisher

Summary: Colt found Julia to be the perfect girl. Although they came from two totally different worlds, they shared secrets and a strong romance. Too bad no one else could ever find out about their relationship. After Julia dies in an accident and he is given her journal, Colt learns more about Julia than he ever knew and revisits their secret year together.

Review: The Secret Year was a moving novel that I enjoyed very much. I think what separatedthis book from other YA novels was its genuine realism. The characters in the book were flawlessly created. Each of them possessed what makes us human--conflict. The internal battles faced by the characters struck through to the heart and their emotions were felt on every page. I was most drawn to Colt's brother, Tommy, who is a true gem. Very rarely do secondary characters, who make only minor appearances in a book, have the same impact on the reader's experience as Tommy did mine.

In addition to the characters' feelings, the events in the story were true to life. Each was captured on the pages in an exciting fashion, yet could take place in any of our own teenage years. The hatred and resentment felt between the Black Mountain kids and those from the flats gave an accurate and thrilling depiction of small town drama.

To help out with the characters and events, the settings were beautifully crafted. I could use all five senses through Jennifer's breathtaking descriptions of the settings and felt as though I was there watching each scene play out.

Fresh, mesmerizing, and authentic, The Secret Year is a powerful debut novel and I look forward to reading more by Jennifer Hubbard (hopefully) in the near future.

Rating: 9-You've gotta read this one!

Mistletoe by Abbott, de la Cruz, Friedman, and Malkin

Mistletoe

Hailey Abbott, Melissa de la Cruz, Aimee Friedman, and Nina Malkin

Scholastic

Released October 6, 2006

Source: Purchased

Summary: What do you get when four popular YA authors come together? One captivating holiday novel full of drama, parties, presents, and romance!

Review: This collection of four short stories was well written and provided some much needed holiday pleasure. Because each of the stories was unique, I am going to give you a quick rundown of each.

In "Working in a Winter Wonderland" by Aimee Friedman, Maxine takes a holiday job in a big city department store in order to purchase the perfect dress for her best friend's New Year's Eve bash. While working, she also becomes one step closer to attaining her secret crush. One of the aspects I enjoyed most about this story was that both Hanukkah and Christmas are celebrated. As a person who celebrates Christmas, I enjoyed learning a little about Hanukkah and hope to read more YA novels about the holiday next winter. This story was full of charm. Aimee's writing was clear, and I loved the ending, even if it was a little predictable.

"Have Yourself a Merry Little Breakup" by Hailey Abbott shares the story of how people change and grow apart. Aria is super excited that her best friend Emily, who is a year older than she, is returning home from her freshman year of college. However, she learns that Emily has grown apart from her boyfriend and her friendship with Aria. Though I knew what was going to happen after reading a couple of pages of this story, Hailey is a good storyteller and kept my attention through her use of three dimensional characters in a realistic situation.

"Scenes from a Cinematic New Year's" by Nina Malkin was an interesting story to say the least. Connor Moline, a television star, experiences a wild ride while trying to join his friends for a winter getaway in Tahoe. I am still unsure of my thoughts on this one. The ending provided a nice twist, but I found the format and the characters to be very annoying. I do have to credit Nina though. She did a great job of showing rather than telling the story which made it easy to follow.

In "The Christmas Choos" by Melissa de la Cruz, neither Kelsey nor Brenden has much money to spend on Christmas presents, but both are determined to make it an unforgettable holiday for the other. This was my favorite of the four stories. I fell so in love with this retelling of "The Gift of the Magi" that I talked about it for several days after reading it. The characters in this story were so believable; I felt their emotions throughout the adorable plot. The ending was heartfelt, and Kelsey and Brenden became one of my favorite YA couples.

This book really put me in the holiday spirit. While reading, it made me feel warm and I became even more excited about all things holiday related--hot chocolate, Christmas lights and wrapping paper! This was a light read, but it was absolutely delightful.

Rating: 7-Good, enjoyable, but not great

2010 Young Adult Reading Challenge

The 2010 Young Adult Reading Challenge is hosted by J. Kaye. This will be the last 2010 challenge I join. I originally set a limit of 3 challenges; however, since I hardly read anything other than YA, I couldn't resist this one!

I am participating in the Super Size Me YA Reading Challenge, so by December 31, I shall read 75 YA novels (which is a LOT for me)!

I will be tracking my progress on this post, so continue to check back as I add my completed list and links to the reviews here!

Books Completed

1.

In the Middle Reading Challenge

The O.W.L. is hosting the In the Middle Reading Challenge. The goal of this challenge is to read middle grades books (books for readers ages 9-12). While there are four levels to this challenge, I am going to think realistically and participate as a 6th grader, which means I must read at least 6 books. Sounds like an attainable goal!

My list of potential reads

Eighth Grade Superzero Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich

Luv Ya Bunches Lauren Myracle

One Crazy Summer Rita Williams-Garcia

The Prince of Fenway Park Julianna Baggott
Maniac Magee Jerry Spinelli

*I will select the final two books at a later time.

Upon completion of each book for this challenge, I will highlight it in fuchsia and link to its review.

Special Note: The four books above were chosen based on reviews I have read at The Happy Nappy Bookseller. If you are not already a follower of Doret's blog, you need to check out her honest reviews. She truly is one of the best bloggers and I admire her work.

TwentyTen Reading Challenge

I am joining another challenge (yay for being brave in 2010)! The TwentyTen Reading Challenge is hosted by Bart's Bookshelf and is one of the coolest challenges I've seen yet. Participants must read two books from each category or a total of only 20 books. Because of its fun categories, I had to participate.

Below are the details about the categories directly from Bart's challenge post.

1. Young Adult
   Any book classified as young adult or featuring a teenage protagonist counts for this category.
2. T.B.R. **
   Intended to help reduce the old T.B.R. pile. Books for this category must be already residents of your bookshelves as of 1/11/09.
3. Shiny & New
   Bought a book NEW during 2010 from a bookstore, online, or a supermarket? Then it counts for this category. Second-hand books do not count for this one, but, for those on book-buying bans, books bought for you as gifts or won in a giveaway also count!
4. Bad Blogger’s ***
   Books in this category, should be ones you’ve picked up purely on the recommendation of another blogger count for this category (any reviews you post should also link to the post that convinced you give the book ago).
   *** Bad Bloggers: Is hosted by Chris of Stuff as Dreams are Made on.
5. Charity
   Support your local charity shops with this category, by picking up books from one of their shops. Again, for those on book-buying bans, books bought for you as gifts also count, as long as they were bought from a charity shop.
6. New in 2010
   This category is for those books newly published in 2010 (whether it be the first time it is has been released, or you had to wait for it to be published in your country, it counts for this one!)
7. Older Than You
   Read two books that were published before you were born, whether that be the day before or 100 years prior!
8. Win! Win!
   Have a couple of books you need to read for another challenge? Then this is the category to use, as long that is, you don’t break the rules of the other challenge by doing so!
9. Who Are You Again?
   This one isn’t just for authors you’ve never read before, this is for those authors you have never even heard of before!
10. Up to You!
    The requirements for this category are up to you! Want to challenge yourself to read some graphic novels? A genre outside your comfort zone? Something completely wild and wacky? Then this is the category to you. The only requirement is that you state it in your sign-up post.

Aren't those some neat categories?!?!?! For number 10, I am going to read nonfiction titles due to last month's post, in which I requested nonfiction suggestions from you! I received a few recommendations that caught my interest, so I'm looking forward to reading them myself!

I will add titles under each category as I decide which books to read. Upon completion of each book, I'll also link to its review on this post.

2010 Debut Author Challenge

During 2010 I plan to make more time for reading and blogging. What better way to make sure I succeed than to join in on The Story Siren's 2010 Debut Author Challenge?

Kristi has challenged her audience to read at least 12 debut novels this year, and I think that this will help motivate me to read more this year.

I will be marking my progress on this post. After reading a book from the list, I will highlight it in fuchsia and link to its review. Any book with an asterisk is a 2010 debut, but will not count toward the challenge, as I read it in 2009.

Wish me luck!

My 2010 Debut Author Challenge List

Eighth Grade Superzero Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich (January 1, 2010)

Bleeding Violet Dia Reeves (January 4, 2010)

The Good Girl's Guide to Getting Kidnapped Yxta Maya Murray (January 7, 2010)

Leaving Gee's Bend Irene Latham (January 7, 2010)

The Secret Year Jennifer Hubbard (January 7, 2010)

Freaksville Kitty Keswick (January 8, 2010)

All Unquiet Things Anna Jarzab (January 12, 2010)

The Mark Jen Nadol (January 19, 2010)

Dirty Little Secrets Cynthia Jaynes Omololu (February 2, 2010)

A Match Made in High School Kristin Walker (February 4, 2010)

The Naughty List Suzanne Young (February 4, 2010)*

The Dark Days of Hamburger Halpin Josh Berk (January 9, 2010)

Tagged Mara Purnhagen (March 1, 2010)

Forget Her Nots Amy Brecount White (March 2, 2010)

Hex Hall Rachel Hawkins (March 2, 2010)

The Line Teri Hall (March 4, 2010)

Split Swati Avasthi (March 9, 2010)

The Body Finder Kimberly Derting (March 16, 2010)*

Princess for Hire Lindsey Leavitt (March 16, 2010)

The Snowball Effect Holly Nicole Hoxter (March 23, 2010)

Under My Skin Judith Graves (March 27, 2010)

The Cinderella Society Kay Cassidy (April 13, 2010)

Three Rivers Rising Jame Richards (April 13, 2010)

Party Tom Leveen (April 27, 2010)

Whisper Phoebe Kitanidis (April 27, 2010)

Shade Jeri Smith-Ready (May 4, 2010)

The Red Umbrella Christina Diaz Gonzalez (May 11, 2010)

Harmonic Feedback Tara Kelly (May 25, 2010)

The Tension of Opposites Kristina McBride (May 25, 2010)
I Now Pronounce You Someone Else Erin McCahan (June 1, 2010)

Nice and Mean Jessica Leader (June 8, 2010)

Sea Heidi R. Kling (June 10, 2010)

The Deathday Letter Shaun Hutchinson (June 15, 2010)

13 to Life Shannon Delany (June 22, 2010)

Shadow Hills Anastasia Hopcus (July 13, 2010)

The Absolute Value of -1 Steve Brezenoff (September 1, 2010)

Losing Faith Denise Jaden (September 7, 2010)