Stepsister by Jennifer Donnelly
I was first introduced to Donnelly's work seven years ago, by a student I had at the time. Since then, I have read several of her books, and have yet to be disappointed. This was no different.
I bought this back in the summer, probably around my birthday, when I was still in my reading slump, but when I saw this was a TAYSHAS nominee, I knew I needed to get started. It made the list, and I have now earned two ducks.
I wasn't sure, even though I KNOW I read the book jacket, what exactly this was going to be about, which is silly, as it is fairly straightforward. This book tells the story of one of Cinderella's stepsisters. This picks up where the prince and grand duke are searching for the girl who can fit the glass slipper. We see the one sister, Octavia, cut off her heel in an effort to fit the shoe, as well as the other sister, Isabelle, cut off her toes. Isabelle is the one telling this story.
As predicted, after Cinderella, or Ella marries the prince and moves into the castle, the stepsisters and their mother are more or less destitute. Sure, they still have their home, but that is it. Eventually, they don't even have that. A couple of incidents make Isabelle want to be pretty, and the fairy queen is willing to comply. All Isabelle has to do is find the pieces of her heart. Too bad Isabelle doesn't really know what those are.
What I like is that this book shows that there are always two sides of a story. We are raised believing one thing about the evil stepsisters, but what if what we have been told our whole lives is wrong? This book lets the reader see a potential other side.
Tuesday, December 31, 2019
Monday, December 23, 2019
TAYSHAS 2020 #5
Serious Moonlight by Jenn Bennett
I actually finished this two days ago, but kept forgetting to blog it. Whoops.
Like most (all) of Bennett's books, this was a fluff read. No matter, as it was still good. This follows Birdie and Daniel, who met in a diner and had sex in the back of Daniel's car the day they met. Yeah. Birdie has lived a little bit of a sheltered life on Bainbridge Island because her recently deceased grandmother was afraid she would end up like her mother. Birdie has narcolepsy and other weird sleeping habits, so she takes a job working the graveyard shift at a hotel. What really lights her fire though are mysteries. She loves solving them. So when she discovers that Daniel works the same shift at the same hotel (which is all kinds of awkward since she ran away from him after that first sexual encounter) and has a mystery he'd like help solving, she's all in.
What ensues is a lot of clues and stalking and flirting. It's actually quite cute. The ending, while not predictable, was not surprising. Again, a cute story.
I actually finished this two days ago, but kept forgetting to blog it. Whoops.
Like most (all) of Bennett's books, this was a fluff read. No matter, as it was still good. This follows Birdie and Daniel, who met in a diner and had sex in the back of Daniel's car the day they met. Yeah. Birdie has lived a little bit of a sheltered life on Bainbridge Island because her recently deceased grandmother was afraid she would end up like her mother. Birdie has narcolepsy and other weird sleeping habits, so she takes a job working the graveyard shift at a hotel. What really lights her fire though are mysteries. She loves solving them. So when she discovers that Daniel works the same shift at the same hotel (which is all kinds of awkward since she ran away from him after that first sexual encounter) and has a mystery he'd like help solving, she's all in.
What ensues is a lot of clues and stalking and flirting. It's actually quite cute. The ending, while not predictable, was not surprising. Again, a cute story.
Tuesday, December 10, 2019
TAYSHAS 2020 #4
Voices: The Final Hours of Joan of Arc by Davod Elliott
I am a fan of Joan of Arc. Her story is interesting and sad. When I was in Montmartre this past July, I had the opportunity to pray and light a candle in the little nave dedicated to Joan in the St. Pierre de Montmartre chapel. It was a beautiful opportunity to pay tribute to someone I hold in high esteem.
When I saw that this was a nominee for the TAYSHAS list, I was so excited and couldn't wait to read this. Unfortunately, I haven't been reading as much this year, so it took a bit longer for me to get around to this than I would have liked, but I did get to it.
This book tells the story of Joan of Arc through poetry, and some of the poems are shape poems. The shapes are things that are relevant in the life of the Maid of Orleans. Some of the poems are told by those objects, and some are told by people involved in her efforts in the 100 Years' War. It follows what I have read previously, so I would argue that it is fairly historically accurate.
I am a fan of Joan of Arc. Her story is interesting and sad. When I was in Montmartre this past July, I had the opportunity to pray and light a candle in the little nave dedicated to Joan in the St. Pierre de Montmartre chapel. It was a beautiful opportunity to pay tribute to someone I hold in high esteem.
When I saw that this was a nominee for the TAYSHAS list, I was so excited and couldn't wait to read this. Unfortunately, I haven't been reading as much this year, so it took a bit longer for me to get around to this than I would have liked, but I did get to it.
This book tells the story of Joan of Arc through poetry, and some of the poems are shape poems. The shapes are things that are relevant in the life of the Maid of Orleans. Some of the poems are told by those objects, and some are told by people involved in her efforts in the 100 Years' War. It follows what I have read previously, so I would argue that it is fairly historically accurate.
Tuesday, December 3, 2019
The Final Installment?
The Merciless IV: Last Rites by Danielle Vega
It's no secret that I picked up my first books by Vega a few years ago when I was trying to read more books than I had the year before it. I won't say I fell in love with them, but I am definitely intrigued by her writing. So, as new installments in this series have popped up, I have read them and put them in my classroom. That, in and of itself is amusing, as the pentagram on the front of these books makes my students wonder about me--ha!
At any rate, I have read and liked all of the books in this series--some more than others--and am often left with more questions than answers. This time was no different. And, as far as I am concerned, this was the best book in the series, hands down.
This is told in two different timelines--Before and After. Before and After...you think you know what it is referencing, but you really don't until the last twenty or so pages (if even that many). To say there's a twist at the end is an understatement, and I honestly wouldn't rule out a fifth book, just sayin'.
This one is about Berkley, who happens to find herself in a mental facility because she had a breakdown after her best friend kills herself. Oddly enough, her roommate is Sophia, from the first two books. Berkley is doing everything she can to get out of the facility, and Sophia seems resigned to the fact that she will never leave it herself. But then the story flips to After, when Berkley is in Cambria, Italy visiting two of her friends while they are in an art program. She meets this guy, and weird things start happening to her. Weird things like strangers referring to her as the devil. She's in a town that is known for sacrificing a woman who later became St. Lucia.
So much happens in this book that you don't want to put it down--I didn't, at least. I highly recommend this book series, and I hear it has been made into a series on Netflix. I'll be checking it out, of course.
It's no secret that I picked up my first books by Vega a few years ago when I was trying to read more books than I had the year before it. I won't say I fell in love with them, but I am definitely intrigued by her writing. So, as new installments in this series have popped up, I have read them and put them in my classroom. That, in and of itself is amusing, as the pentagram on the front of these books makes my students wonder about me--ha!
At any rate, I have read and liked all of the books in this series--some more than others--and am often left with more questions than answers. This time was no different. And, as far as I am concerned, this was the best book in the series, hands down.
This is told in two different timelines--Before and After. Before and After...you think you know what it is referencing, but you really don't until the last twenty or so pages (if even that many). To say there's a twist at the end is an understatement, and I honestly wouldn't rule out a fifth book, just sayin'.
This one is about Berkley, who happens to find herself in a mental facility because she had a breakdown after her best friend kills herself. Oddly enough, her roommate is Sophia, from the first two books. Berkley is doing everything she can to get out of the facility, and Sophia seems resigned to the fact that she will never leave it herself. But then the story flips to After, when Berkley is in Cambria, Italy visiting two of her friends while they are in an art program. She meets this guy, and weird things start happening to her. Weird things like strangers referring to her as the devil. She's in a town that is known for sacrificing a woman who later became St. Lucia.
So much happens in this book that you don't want to put it down--I didn't, at least. I highly recommend this book series, and I hear it has been made into a series on Netflix. I'll be checking it out, of course.
Sunday, December 1, 2019
What Is A Lie?
Dear Evan Hansen by Val Emmich, Steven Levenson, Ben J. Pasek, and Justin Paul
It's the first day of Evan Hansen's senior year of high school. He's a bit of a nobody, has anxiety issues, and sees a therapist. He's starting out the year with a cast on his arm because he fell from a tree and broke it. He has a crush on a girl named Zoe, whose brother is a social outcast. Evan has a couple of encounters with Zoe's brother, Connor, that day, and Connor signs Evan's cast.
A couple of days later, Evan discovers that Connor has killed himself, and his parents believe that Connor wrote his suicide note to Evan. As it turns out, the letter in question was written by Evan himself, as an exercise assigned by his therapist. Since Connor's parents are convinced that the letter was written by Connor, Evan thinks the best thing he can do for these grieving parents is to play along.
Over the course of several weeks, Evan lives this lie. He has created memories of himself and Connor to convince everyone of their friendship. He fakes emails. He has dinner with Connor's family, and he feels more comfortable with them than his own mother. To some degree, Evan feels guilty lying to everyone, so it makes you wonder how long this charade will last.
I can see why this is a popular theatre production, as the story was definitely worth reading.
It's the first day of Evan Hansen's senior year of high school. He's a bit of a nobody, has anxiety issues, and sees a therapist. He's starting out the year with a cast on his arm because he fell from a tree and broke it. He has a crush on a girl named Zoe, whose brother is a social outcast. Evan has a couple of encounters with Zoe's brother, Connor, that day, and Connor signs Evan's cast.
A couple of days later, Evan discovers that Connor has killed himself, and his parents believe that Connor wrote his suicide note to Evan. As it turns out, the letter in question was written by Evan himself, as an exercise assigned by his therapist. Since Connor's parents are convinced that the letter was written by Connor, Evan thinks the best thing he can do for these grieving parents is to play along.
Over the course of several weeks, Evan lives this lie. He has created memories of himself and Connor to convince everyone of their friendship. He fakes emails. He has dinner with Connor's family, and he feels more comfortable with them than his own mother. To some degree, Evan feels guilty lying to everyone, so it makes you wonder how long this charade will last.
I can see why this is a popular theatre production, as the story was definitely worth reading.
Sunday, November 24, 2019
What Did I Just Read?
They Could Have Named Her Anything by Stephanie Jiminez
Sometime this past summer, this came up as an Amazon First Read. Apparently, it was the best that was on offer that month, as this was the one I chose. I'd put it out of my mind until I saw it was on the final nominations list for the 2020 TAYSHAS list. Since it made that list, I thought it was likely a good book. I just finished it, and although it would give me a notch on the list, if you will, I hope it doesn't make the list. The writing isn't great, and neither is the storyline.
Maria is seventeen and lives in Queens. She attends a fancy girls' school on a scholarship, but because of her family's financial situation, doesn't feel like she has anything in common with the girls she goes to school with. She has a boyfriend, Andres, who has sex with her but treats her like crap, and she takes it for reasons I don't really understand.
One day, Maria and Rocky, another girl from her school, become friends. She spends the night at her Manhattan apartment, and encounters Rocky's dad, who she is attracted to. Oh, and Rocky's dad is attracted to Maria as well. Maria goes on vacation to Las Vegas with Rocky's family, and spends some time with Rocky's dad. It's clear they want to have sex, but Maria asks that they wait until they get back to New York.
Once they are back in New York, Maria starts and quits a job, and her brother becomes involved with Rocky. Finally, Rocky's dad calls Maria, and they finally have sex, but Rocky and Maria's brother walk in on them. Mayhem ensues.
I am sorry, but I don't think this is the most appropriate subject matter for young adults, but that's my opinion.
Sometime this past summer, this came up as an Amazon First Read. Apparently, it was the best that was on offer that month, as this was the one I chose. I'd put it out of my mind until I saw it was on the final nominations list for the 2020 TAYSHAS list. Since it made that list, I thought it was likely a good book. I just finished it, and although it would give me a notch on the list, if you will, I hope it doesn't make the list. The writing isn't great, and neither is the storyline.
Maria is seventeen and lives in Queens. She attends a fancy girls' school on a scholarship, but because of her family's financial situation, doesn't feel like she has anything in common with the girls she goes to school with. She has a boyfriend, Andres, who has sex with her but treats her like crap, and she takes it for reasons I don't really understand.
One day, Maria and Rocky, another girl from her school, become friends. She spends the night at her Manhattan apartment, and encounters Rocky's dad, who she is attracted to. Oh, and Rocky's dad is attracted to Maria as well. Maria goes on vacation to Las Vegas with Rocky's family, and spends some time with Rocky's dad. It's clear they want to have sex, but Maria asks that they wait until they get back to New York.
Once they are back in New York, Maria starts and quits a job, and her brother becomes involved with Rocky. Finally, Rocky's dad calls Maria, and they finally have sex, but Rocky and Maria's brother walk in on them. Mayhem ensues.
I am sorry, but I don't think this is the most appropriate subject matter for young adults, but that's my opinion.
Monday, November 18, 2019
Not A Sequel, But Related, Kinda
On the Come Up by Angie Thomas
I have been wanting to read this for a while, and when I forgot to take a book to read at school, I downloaded this one. While this was a good book, I think Ms. Thomas is pigeon-holing herself. This was well written, but the story takes place in the same place as her last book, and isn't all that much different in terms of content either.
This is the story of Bri, who wants to be a rap artist. Her father was a rap artist who was killed when Bri was very young. It was gang members who killed him. When she was five, her mother left Bri and her brother with their grandparents because she was too into drugs to take care of them.
Just like in Thomas' previous novel, Bri lives in the projects but goes to a good school that is some distance from her house. Additionally, gangs are an issue, albeit a smaller focus.
Like I said, good book, but too similar to the previous offering of this author.
I have been wanting to read this for a while, and when I forgot to take a book to read at school, I downloaded this one. While this was a good book, I think Ms. Thomas is pigeon-holing herself. This was well written, but the story takes place in the same place as her last book, and isn't all that much different in terms of content either.
This is the story of Bri, who wants to be a rap artist. Her father was a rap artist who was killed when Bri was very young. It was gang members who killed him. When she was five, her mother left Bri and her brother with their grandparents because she was too into drugs to take care of them.
Just like in Thomas' previous novel, Bri lives in the projects but goes to a good school that is some distance from her house. Additionally, gangs are an issue, albeit a smaller focus.
Like I said, good book, but too similar to the previous offering of this author.
Sunday, October 27, 2019
A Different Title Would be Better
The Lost by Natasha Preston
Unlike most of Preston's books, I am not really clear on where this one takes place. Also, the title doesn't really work for me. Lost implies something unintentional, and the people who are 'lost' in this book are kidnapped, which is not the same thing.
Piper is sixteen, and her older sister died sometime earlier. She is quite the homebody, but goes out to the lake with her friend Hazel one night. While there, she sees Caleb, a hot, rich guy that has taken notice of her. When Caleb and his friend ask Piper and Hazel to go for a ride with them, it seems innocent enough, but boy is she wrong. They end up in a secluded cabin in the woods, where the "games" are just beginning.
Prior to Piper and Hazel being taken, several other young people their age have gone missing over the course of months. As it turns out, these teens were all taken and used as part of a game for Caleb and his friends. There are six rooms that have to be survived, and each room has its own form of torture. Will Piper be able to survive the rooms and escape, or will she die? The only way you will find out the answer to this is to read the book.
Unlike most of Preston's books, I am not really clear on where this one takes place. Also, the title doesn't really work for me. Lost implies something unintentional, and the people who are 'lost' in this book are kidnapped, which is not the same thing.
Piper is sixteen, and her older sister died sometime earlier. She is quite the homebody, but goes out to the lake with her friend Hazel one night. While there, she sees Caleb, a hot, rich guy that has taken notice of her. When Caleb and his friend ask Piper and Hazel to go for a ride with them, it seems innocent enough, but boy is she wrong. They end up in a secluded cabin in the woods, where the "games" are just beginning.
Prior to Piper and Hazel being taken, several other young people their age have gone missing over the course of months. As it turns out, these teens were all taken and used as part of a game for Caleb and his friends. There are six rooms that have to be survived, and each room has its own form of torture. Will Piper be able to survive the rooms and escape, or will she die? The only way you will find out the answer to this is to read the book.
Sunday, October 20, 2019
The End of the Search
Capturing the Devil by Kerri Maniscalco
I have loved this series since I discovered it by accident on the shelves of my local Target store and am sad that it is over. I have loved following the adventures of Audrey Rose and Thomas. To know this was the end saddens me. I'd like to think that is why I took so long to read it, that I was savoring it, but I know that is not true. I just haven't wanted to read. At any rate, this was, as its predecessors were, worth the read.
This installment begins in New York City, with Audrey Rose and Thomas about to get married. There are deaths very similar to the Jack the Ripper murders, and there is speculation that the Ripper has crossed the pond. Of course, Audrey Rose and Thomas have to be a part of the investigation. Meanwhile, they are planning their wedding, which, unfortunately, does not go through because Thomas' father forged a letter that betrothed him to another woman.
In an effort to buy some time to sort out the forgery thing, Audrey Rose and Thomas head to Chicago, just in time to see the World's Fair, the White City. While there, they discover that many women have gone missing, and of the few bodies that have been found, they learn that the Ripper seems to have come here.
There are a whirlwind of emotions reading this one, but as I have already said, this one is so worth the time. This is a series that I am seriously considering re-reading from the beginning; it enthralled me that much.
I have loved this series since I discovered it by accident on the shelves of my local Target store and am sad that it is over. I have loved following the adventures of Audrey Rose and Thomas. To know this was the end saddens me. I'd like to think that is why I took so long to read it, that I was savoring it, but I know that is not true. I just haven't wanted to read. At any rate, this was, as its predecessors were, worth the read.
This installment begins in New York City, with Audrey Rose and Thomas about to get married. There are deaths very similar to the Jack the Ripper murders, and there is speculation that the Ripper has crossed the pond. Of course, Audrey Rose and Thomas have to be a part of the investigation. Meanwhile, they are planning their wedding, which, unfortunately, does not go through because Thomas' father forged a letter that betrothed him to another woman.
In an effort to buy some time to sort out the forgery thing, Audrey Rose and Thomas head to Chicago, just in time to see the World's Fair, the White City. While there, they discover that many women have gone missing, and of the few bodies that have been found, they learn that the Ripper seems to have come here.
There are a whirlwind of emotions reading this one, but as I have already said, this one is so worth the time. This is a series that I am seriously considering re-reading from the beginning; it enthralled me that much.
Tuesday, September 24, 2019
The Course of True Love
The Last Letter From Your Lover by Jojo Moyes
This author is becoming a favorite. Everything I have read by her has been wonderful, and this was no different. I will say that it felt a little slow to start, but that may have just been me and my ongoing reading slump.
Two-thirds of this book is about Jennifer, a wealthy, British housewife who meets and falls in love with a reporter named Anthony. At the beginning of the book, Jennifer has been in an automobile accident and has lost some of her memories, including her memories of Anthony. Her husband, Laurence, just hopes she forgets him entirely, but then she finds a letter from her lover. And another, and another. Once she is finally able to piece together who he is, she is told that he is dead, but that is because Laurence is an ass and wants her to stay with him.
Jennifer finally learns that Anthony didn't die, and finds him four years later. They have an amazing afternoon together, when Anthony asks her to leave her husband, but because she has a child, she doesn't feel like she can. Anthony takes off for the Congo, and Jennifer leaves her husband to try to track Anthony down. She never finds him.
The letters Anthony wrote to Jennifer after her accident are somehow left in a file in the newspaper offices. In 2003, some forty years afterward, Ellie finds them and looks to find who they belong to. Ellie, as it turns out, is the other woman. Her boyfriend is cheating on his wife with her, so these letters ring home to her in some way. She does everything she can to piece everything together.
This was a sweet read, and one I needed right now.
This author is becoming a favorite. Everything I have read by her has been wonderful, and this was no different. I will say that it felt a little slow to start, but that may have just been me and my ongoing reading slump.
Two-thirds of this book is about Jennifer, a wealthy, British housewife who meets and falls in love with a reporter named Anthony. At the beginning of the book, Jennifer has been in an automobile accident and has lost some of her memories, including her memories of Anthony. Her husband, Laurence, just hopes she forgets him entirely, but then she finds a letter from her lover. And another, and another. Once she is finally able to piece together who he is, she is told that he is dead, but that is because Laurence is an ass and wants her to stay with him.
Jennifer finally learns that Anthony didn't die, and finds him four years later. They have an amazing afternoon together, when Anthony asks her to leave her husband, but because she has a child, she doesn't feel like she can. Anthony takes off for the Congo, and Jennifer leaves her husband to try to track Anthony down. She never finds him.
The letters Anthony wrote to Jennifer after her accident are somehow left in a file in the newspaper offices. In 2003, some forty years afterward, Ellie finds them and looks to find who they belong to. Ellie, as it turns out, is the other woman. Her boyfriend is cheating on his wife with her, so these letters ring home to her in some way. She does everything she can to piece everything together.
This was a sweet read, and one I needed right now.
Thursday, August 29, 2019
When Good Therapists Go Bad
Anonymous Girl by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen
Last year sometime, I read The Wife Between Us by the same authors and was enthralled. When I saw they had a new book out, I knew I would have to read it. I have been in a reading slump for months now, so I was unsure I would actually get this read in the time allotted to me by Overdrive, but I did. Holy cow was this an edge of your seat read!
Jessica is in her late 20s, and is a makeup artist in New York City. Her family, including her disabled sister, is in Pennsylvania. There never seems to be enough money to do what needs to be done, so when Jessica hears of a chance to make a relatively easy $500, she does it. All she has to do is participate in a study about morality. Seems simple enough, right?
This probably would have been easy, but the doctor/professor conducting the study is taken with Jessica, and wants to do a more personalized study with her. This includes having Jessica put herself in situations where she has to flirt with men, or arrange dates with them, all because her own husband cheated on her. The good doctor, Dr. Shields pays well, but will it be worth it?
I know I have said this before, but this one is hard to write about. It would be too easy to give away so much of the plot. All you need to know is that you won't want to put this down, and that Dr. Shields is seriously f&^%$#@ up. Don't walk--RUN to get this one. You won't regret it.
Last year sometime, I read The Wife Between Us by the same authors and was enthralled. When I saw they had a new book out, I knew I would have to read it. I have been in a reading slump for months now, so I was unsure I would actually get this read in the time allotted to me by Overdrive, but I did. Holy cow was this an edge of your seat read!
Jessica is in her late 20s, and is a makeup artist in New York City. Her family, including her disabled sister, is in Pennsylvania. There never seems to be enough money to do what needs to be done, so when Jessica hears of a chance to make a relatively easy $500, she does it. All she has to do is participate in a study about morality. Seems simple enough, right?
This probably would have been easy, but the doctor/professor conducting the study is taken with Jessica, and wants to do a more personalized study with her. This includes having Jessica put herself in situations where she has to flirt with men, or arrange dates with them, all because her own husband cheated on her. The good doctor, Dr. Shields pays well, but will it be worth it?
I know I have said this before, but this one is hard to write about. It would be too easy to give away so much of the plot. All you need to know is that you won't want to put this down, and that Dr. Shields is seriously f&^%$#@ up. Don't walk--RUN to get this one. You won't regret it.
Saturday, August 24, 2019
Stories of the Marsh Girl
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
At the beginning of the book, Kya is a young girl. Her mother just up and leaves one day, never to come back. Then so do all of Kya's siblings. For a bit, Kya's father is around, but he is a drunk and abusive, so she'd be better off without him there. One day he leaves too, and Kya is all alone. Until Tate shows up, that is.
Kya lives in the marsh on the edge of town, and has only been to school one day in her entire life. She can't read, but she knows the marsh creatures as well as she knows herself. Tate is a few years older, and teaches Kya how to read. He also teaches her what it is to love someone, until he breaks a promise to her.
Then along comes Chase. Chase is the town golden boy, and he likes Kya. He keeps making promises to her, promises he has no intention of keeping, just so he can have her the way that he wants her.
One day, Chase turns up dead, and everyone thinks Kya did it. She has to go on trial for her freedom. Did she kill Chase?
What I liked about this was the way it went back and forth in time. I also liked the vivid imagery the author used. This book was mesmerizing.
At the beginning of the book, Kya is a young girl. Her mother just up and leaves one day, never to come back. Then so do all of Kya's siblings. For a bit, Kya's father is around, but he is a drunk and abusive, so she'd be better off without him there. One day he leaves too, and Kya is all alone. Until Tate shows up, that is.
Kya lives in the marsh on the edge of town, and has only been to school one day in her entire life. She can't read, but she knows the marsh creatures as well as she knows herself. Tate is a few years older, and teaches Kya how to read. He also teaches her what it is to love someone, until he breaks a promise to her.
Then along comes Chase. Chase is the town golden boy, and he likes Kya. He keeps making promises to her, promises he has no intention of keeping, just so he can have her the way that he wants her.
One day, Chase turns up dead, and everyone thinks Kya did it. She has to go on trial for her freedom. Did she kill Chase?
What I liked about this was the way it went back and forth in time. I also liked the vivid imagery the author used. This book was mesmerizing.
Monday, July 29, 2019
Not as Great as His Other Books
Layover by David Bell
It's no secret that I have loved Bell's work since I first discovered him a few years ago, but this one was not quite as good as all of his others.
It starts out in the Atlanta airport (which is where my own traveling debacle started while I was reading this). Joshua travels a lot for work, despite the anxiety that traveling by air gives him. While waiting in line to buy a book, he runs into Morgan, who intrigues him from the start. They end up going to a bar before their flights, and hit it off. Morgan gives him the kiss of his life before telling him he'll never see her again. This prompts him to change flights so that he can be with her and get to know her better. But, when he sees her on the plane, she denies knowing him.
Josh doesn't know what to make of this, but when he lands, he sees a news report for a missing person, and that missing person is Morgan. What ensues is a game of cat and mouse that involves theft and murder.
I don't know if this didn't hold my attention because the story was lacking something, or if it is because I read the first half during a series of flights to Europe and the last half on flights home a week later or what, but this just didn't grab me and hold on like all of his other books did.
It's no secret that I have loved Bell's work since I first discovered him a few years ago, but this one was not quite as good as all of his others.
It starts out in the Atlanta airport (which is where my own traveling debacle started while I was reading this). Joshua travels a lot for work, despite the anxiety that traveling by air gives him. While waiting in line to buy a book, he runs into Morgan, who intrigues him from the start. They end up going to a bar before their flights, and hit it off. Morgan gives him the kiss of his life before telling him he'll never see her again. This prompts him to change flights so that he can be with her and get to know her better. But, when he sees her on the plane, she denies knowing him.
Josh doesn't know what to make of this, but when he lands, he sees a news report for a missing person, and that missing person is Morgan. What ensues is a game of cat and mouse that involves theft and murder.
I don't know if this didn't hold my attention because the story was lacking something, or if it is because I read the first half during a series of flights to Europe and the last half on flights home a week later or what, but this just didn't grab me and hold on like all of his other books did.
Tuesday, July 9, 2019
Pretty Bois
Pretty Bois Have Sad Lives by Nicolas Serrano
As a teacher, I have to fulfill 30 hours of professional development every calendar year. Twelve of those hours I tend to get during the summer so that I can get all of my school holidays off. This past Monday, I went to PD, and the author of this book, who is a teacher in my district, was one of the presenters. He was told he should plug his book, and I am all about supporting people in my community, so I bought the book.
I'd be lying if I said I wasn't disappointed by how short it is--only 38 pages--but I enjoyed the book, so I can't complain too much. Since I am still in a reading slump (and my impending divorce isn't helping with that either), it was nice to read something short to feel like I completed something.
Like most of the popular books of "poetry" these days, this is reminiscent of the author's life experiences. The poetry is relatable and deep, but my favorite part of the book was the introduction. What I got from this is: 1. I hope Serrano writes more of this and 2. I hope to get to see more of his work inside the classroom.
***This didn't get published when it was supposed to. This is from June 2019.***
As a teacher, I have to fulfill 30 hours of professional development every calendar year. Twelve of those hours I tend to get during the summer so that I can get all of my school holidays off. This past Monday, I went to PD, and the author of this book, who is a teacher in my district, was one of the presenters. He was told he should plug his book, and I am all about supporting people in my community, so I bought the book.
I'd be lying if I said I wasn't disappointed by how short it is--only 38 pages--but I enjoyed the book, so I can't complain too much. Since I am still in a reading slump (and my impending divorce isn't helping with that either), it was nice to read something short to feel like I completed something.
Like most of the popular books of "poetry" these days, this is reminiscent of the author's life experiences. The poetry is relatable and deep, but my favorite part of the book was the introduction. What I got from this is: 1. I hope Serrano writes more of this and 2. I hope to get to see more of his work inside the classroom.
***This didn't get published when it was supposed to. This is from June 2019.***
Two Decades Later, A Companion
Shout by Laurie Halse Anderson
When I was in grad school getting my MLS, I had to read Speak. I liked it. Earlier this year, I read the graphic novel of Speak. I like both. When I heard that Ms. Anderson was publishing a follow up to that book, I knew I would read it. It's rare, in my experience, for an author to write a memoir about their own sexual assault experiences after writing a hugely successful fictional book over the same topic. In fact, the only other author I can think of who has done so (and that I read both the fiction book and the memoir) was Alice Sebold. Being a victim myself, I find myself drawn to these books to see if the way I handled things is "normal." There is no "normal," by the way.
This book is in three parts. The first part is Anderson's background, her history. The second, is her response to sexual assault in general, rather than her specific experience. It also deals with people's response to her books, and people who have come to her with their own stories. The last is a way to tie up some loose ends. It's all written in free verse, which makes this a fairly quick read. I loved how open and honest Anderson was in these pages.
I liked this enough that I will likely buy a physical copy for the shelves of my classroom, and encourage students to read it.
When I was in grad school getting my MLS, I had to read Speak. I liked it. Earlier this year, I read the graphic novel of Speak. I like both. When I heard that Ms. Anderson was publishing a follow up to that book, I knew I would read it. It's rare, in my experience, for an author to write a memoir about their own sexual assault experiences after writing a hugely successful fictional book over the same topic. In fact, the only other author I can think of who has done so (and that I read both the fiction book and the memoir) was Alice Sebold. Being a victim myself, I find myself drawn to these books to see if the way I handled things is "normal." There is no "normal," by the way.
This book is in three parts. The first part is Anderson's background, her history. The second, is her response to sexual assault in general, rather than her specific experience. It also deals with people's response to her books, and people who have come to her with their own stories. The last is a way to tie up some loose ends. It's all written in free verse, which makes this a fairly quick read. I loved how open and honest Anderson was in these pages.
I liked this enough that I will likely buy a physical copy for the shelves of my classroom, and encourage students to read it.
Monday, May 27, 2019
Revisiting Some Recent Stories
Angry Management by Chris Crutcher
This book is made up of three novellas that are related to prior novels and short stories by this author, all related because they are part of Mr. Nak's Angry Management Class, which we first learned of in Ironman.
The first novella involves Angus Bethune from a short story in Athletic Shorts and Sarah Byrnes from Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes. They become friends, go to Reno, and learn the truth about Sarah's mother. I read this novella before I finished the book that Sarah Byrnes is part of, which was both a blessing and a curse. I knew Sarah was going to be ok, but I ruined it for myself.
The second novella is about a young lady named Montana who takes on the school board in her town, the president of which is her adoptive father. I am not familiar with the story or book she comes from, but I want to know more about her.
The last novella reunites readers with Mr. Simet from Whale Talk, and Matt Miller, a minor character from Deadline. They are connected by a young man named Marcus James who is a gay, black high school student in a town where there might be five black people. Needless to say, this is a racially charged and heartbreaking story.
On the whole, I enjoyed this book. I am finding that I really enjoy anything that Chris Crutcher has written, and I hope he keeps it up.
This book is made up of three novellas that are related to prior novels and short stories by this author, all related because they are part of Mr. Nak's Angry Management Class, which we first learned of in Ironman.
The first novella involves Angus Bethune from a short story in Athletic Shorts and Sarah Byrnes from Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes. They become friends, go to Reno, and learn the truth about Sarah's mother. I read this novella before I finished the book that Sarah Byrnes is part of, which was both a blessing and a curse. I knew Sarah was going to be ok, but I ruined it for myself.
The second novella is about a young lady named Montana who takes on the school board in her town, the president of which is her adoptive father. I am not familiar with the story or book she comes from, but I want to know more about her.
The last novella reunites readers with Mr. Simet from Whale Talk, and Matt Miller, a minor character from Deadline. They are connected by a young man named Marcus James who is a gay, black high school student in a town where there might be five black people. Needless to say, this is a racially charged and heartbreaking story.
On the whole, I enjoyed this book. I am finding that I really enjoy anything that Chris Crutcher has written, and I hope he keeps it up.
The Things You Do For Friends
Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes by Chris Crutcher
Eric Calhoune is a swimmer. He really likes a girl named Jody, but Jody happens to be dating a douchecanoe named Mark Brittain. Eric's best friend is Sarah Byrnes, who is in a mental facility. He goes to see her nearly every day, and she just sits there. She won't talk. Sarah Byrnes has a lot going on and a reason for not talking; if she doesn't talk, she has to go back to her dad. Her dad is a psycho.
How do we know Sarah Byrnes' dad is a psycho? Well, Sarah Byrnes' face is disfigured. First we're told that it is because she pulled a pot of boiling spaghetti on herself when she was three, but we later find out that isn't true.
Eric does everything he can for Sarah Byrnes, all the while getting Mark Brittain riled up. This was a fantastic read, and I got to enjoy it with my 4th period PreAP class. I'd like to believe they enjoyed it as much as I did.
Eric Calhoune is a swimmer. He really likes a girl named Jody, but Jody happens to be dating a douchecanoe named Mark Brittain. Eric's best friend is Sarah Byrnes, who is in a mental facility. He goes to see her nearly every day, and she just sits there. She won't talk. Sarah Byrnes has a lot going on and a reason for not talking; if she doesn't talk, she has to go back to her dad. Her dad is a psycho.
How do we know Sarah Byrnes' dad is a psycho? Well, Sarah Byrnes' face is disfigured. First we're told that it is because she pulled a pot of boiling spaghetti on herself when she was three, but we later find out that isn't true.
Eric does everything he can for Sarah Byrnes, all the while getting Mark Brittain riled up. This was a fantastic read, and I got to enjoy it with my 4th period PreAP class. I'd like to believe they enjoyed it as much as I did.
Friday, May 24, 2019
Mercy Allows for All Things
Ironman by Chris Crutcher
This was one of the books I chose to read to my classes this year. This author is amazing, and writes about real issues facing teenagers these days. Even though there are aspects of this book which date it a little bit, the themes and situations are timeless.
In this book, a young man is training for a triathlon. He also is sentenced to anger management classes at school because he angered the football coach. This is meant to be punishment, but it becomes a part of his life that he cherishes. He is exposed to people who, although his peers, have things going on that help him put his life in perspective. And perspective he does gain. He also manages to make friends with people he wouldn't normally have bothered with, and that may be the best lesson my students could have taken from this book.
I would absolutely read this with my students again. The best comment I got when we finished was "Mrs. Parker, that was an AWESOME book!" If that's not a ringing endorsement, I don't know what is.
This was one of the books I chose to read to my classes this year. This author is amazing, and writes about real issues facing teenagers these days. Even though there are aspects of this book which date it a little bit, the themes and situations are timeless.
In this book, a young man is training for a triathlon. He also is sentenced to anger management classes at school because he angered the football coach. This is meant to be punishment, but it becomes a part of his life that he cherishes. He is exposed to people who, although his peers, have things going on that help him put his life in perspective. And perspective he does gain. He also manages to make friends with people he wouldn't normally have bothered with, and that may be the best lesson my students could have taken from this book.
I would absolutely read this with my students again. The best comment I got when we finished was "Mrs. Parker, that was an AWESOME book!" If that's not a ringing endorsement, I don't know what is.
It's Been a While
Period 8 by Chris Crutcher
I got it in my head that it would be fun to read to each of my six classes. It was. What was different is that I read six different books, all by the same author. I'd read three of the six before, but the other three were new to me. This is the book I read to my 5th period on level/co-teach class.
As is the norm with Crutcher's books, this takes place in the Pacific Northwest/Idaho/Montana area. It starts off in a hotel room with a woman buttoning up her blouse, so you know this is kinda sketchy to start with in a high school classroom. Thankfully, it did not dwell on that too much. Instead, we hear that a young man cheated on his girlfriend and they break up. We see that an "upstanding" young man tries to swoop in and take that girlfriend for his own. We learn about a girl who is referred to as the Virgin Mary fall from grace, and corrupt policemen. This book was a wild ride full of bad language an not so comfortable situations, but my kids liked it. I would absolutely read it again to my classes.
I got it in my head that it would be fun to read to each of my six classes. It was. What was different is that I read six different books, all by the same author. I'd read three of the six before, but the other three were new to me. This is the book I read to my 5th period on level/co-teach class.
As is the norm with Crutcher's books, this takes place in the Pacific Northwest/Idaho/Montana area. It starts off in a hotel room with a woman buttoning up her blouse, so you know this is kinda sketchy to start with in a high school classroom. Thankfully, it did not dwell on that too much. Instead, we hear that a young man cheated on his girlfriend and they break up. We see that an "upstanding" young man tries to swoop in and take that girlfriend for his own. We learn about a girl who is referred to as the Virgin Mary fall from grace, and corrupt policemen. This book was a wild ride full of bad language an not so comfortable situations, but my kids liked it. I would absolutely read it again to my classes.
Wednesday, April 3, 2019
More French Things
In Paris With You by Clementine Beauvais
If it wasn't already obvious, my love affair with all things French is in full swing these days. Between going to Paris for the first time this past November and going back in a few short months, I keep finding myself drawn to books taking place in the City of Lights. This one looked like it was going to be a perfect fit.
I bought this back in January. It was on the young adult shelf at Target, so I thought I would be able to put this one on my classroom shelf when I was done. That last point, I am still pondering, by the way. It sounded like it was going to be right up my alley, but I guess it just wasn't because I kept putting it down to read other things.
A couple of things you should know up front... this is translated from French and it is written in free verse. Due to these things, I have to wonder if something is/was lost in the translation. It wasn't horrible, but it certainly wasn't a must read.
This is the story of Tatiana and Eugene. They knew each other in their teens. Tatiana had a thing for Eugene, but the feelings weren't mutual. Ten years later (when this book begins, actually) they run into each other on a train, and Eugene starts to see what he missed out on. He finds himself infatuated with her, in fact, and must see her again.
Tatiana, on the other hand, is somewhat more cautious. She remembers how things ended when they were young, but is willing to spend some time with Eugene. Just as things are starting to pick up, we find out that Tatiana is leaving in a matter of days to begin a new life in San Francisco. Will Eugene have a chance with Tatiana after all this time? Will she throw away her dreams and stay in Paris? Read to find out.
If it wasn't already obvious, my love affair with all things French is in full swing these days. Between going to Paris for the first time this past November and going back in a few short months, I keep finding myself drawn to books taking place in the City of Lights. This one looked like it was going to be a perfect fit.
I bought this back in January. It was on the young adult shelf at Target, so I thought I would be able to put this one on my classroom shelf when I was done. That last point, I am still pondering, by the way. It sounded like it was going to be right up my alley, but I guess it just wasn't because I kept putting it down to read other things.
A couple of things you should know up front... this is translated from French and it is written in free verse. Due to these things, I have to wonder if something is/was lost in the translation. It wasn't horrible, but it certainly wasn't a must read.
This is the story of Tatiana and Eugene. They knew each other in their teens. Tatiana had a thing for Eugene, but the feelings weren't mutual. Ten years later (when this book begins, actually) they run into each other on a train, and Eugene starts to see what he missed out on. He finds himself infatuated with her, in fact, and must see her again.
Tatiana, on the other hand, is somewhat more cautious. She remembers how things ended when they were young, but is willing to spend some time with Eugene. Just as things are starting to pick up, we find out that Tatiana is leaving in a matter of days to begin a new life in San Francisco. Will Eugene have a chance with Tatiana after all this time? Will she throw away her dreams and stay in Paris? Read to find out.
Sunday, March 24, 2019
If You Love All Things French....
Paris by Edward Rutherford
This was suggested to me by a friend and coworker. She knew that I went to France this past autumn and am going back again this summer, and thought that I would enjoy this because many of the places mentioned, I had been to. She was correct. I loved when they mentioned Montmartre and the Lapin Agile, Pont Neuf, Notre Dame, St. Chapelle, the Louvre, Versailles, and so many more places. It's also no secret that I am a sucker for history, and this book is full of history.
What I loved about this book is that it is about the same families over the centuries and how those families interacted in the various time periods in this book. I was partial to the de Cygne family as I was reading, and hated the Le Sourd's. I so wanted Marie Blanchard to end up with Roland de Cygne in the early twentieth century, and it broke my heart when his father died and he wouldn't be able to see her again. I was especially taken with the history of the building of the Eiffel tower, and the intricacies of that amazing landmark.
In truth, the only parts that I didn't love were the chapters that took place during World War I and the ones during the occupation in World War II. Comparatively, those were such a small part of the book, that it was ok that I didn't love it, and didn't take away from my enthrallment.
I had no idea how long this was when I bought it. The day I started reading it, I looked at the time left in the book and it said 29 hours. That was a little daunting, but only a little--I have no fear of long books. This was one I couldn't put down during Spring Break, and didn't want to put down when I went back to my real life as a teacher. I know that this is a author I will revisit soon.
This was suggested to me by a friend and coworker. She knew that I went to France this past autumn and am going back again this summer, and thought that I would enjoy this because many of the places mentioned, I had been to. She was correct. I loved when they mentioned Montmartre and the Lapin Agile, Pont Neuf, Notre Dame, St. Chapelle, the Louvre, Versailles, and so many more places. It's also no secret that I am a sucker for history, and this book is full of history.
What I loved about this book is that it is about the same families over the centuries and how those families interacted in the various time periods in this book. I was partial to the de Cygne family as I was reading, and hated the Le Sourd's. I so wanted Marie Blanchard to end up with Roland de Cygne in the early twentieth century, and it broke my heart when his father died and he wouldn't be able to see her again. I was especially taken with the history of the building of the Eiffel tower, and the intricacies of that amazing landmark.
In truth, the only parts that I didn't love were the chapters that took place during World War I and the ones during the occupation in World War II. Comparatively, those were such a small part of the book, that it was ok that I didn't love it, and didn't take away from my enthrallment.
I had no idea how long this was when I bought it. The day I started reading it, I looked at the time left in the book and it said 29 hours. That was a little daunting, but only a little--I have no fear of long books. This was one I couldn't put down during Spring Break, and didn't want to put down when I went back to my real life as a teacher. I know that this is a author I will revisit soon.
Thursday, March 14, 2019
Inner Mermaid
the mermaid's voice returns in this one by Amanda Lovelace
I have said it before, and I will say it again: Ms. Lovelace's poetry speaks to me in a way that most poetry doesn't. It is entirely to relatable in ways that I hate (because I hate that those things happened to both of us) but helps me remember that I am not alone. If nothing else, I find her poetry empowering.
Another thing I love about this poetry is that by the time you get to the end, things don't seem quite as bad, which is exactly how I feel about this thing called life. Mine hasn't always been sunshine and roses, in fact, there are parts I would never wish on anyone, but it doesn't mean that things can't end up on a good note.
I have said it before, and I will say it again: Ms. Lovelace's poetry speaks to me in a way that most poetry doesn't. It is entirely to relatable in ways that I hate (because I hate that those things happened to both of us) but helps me remember that I am not alone. If nothing else, I find her poetry empowering.
Another thing I love about this poetry is that by the time you get to the end, things don't seem quite as bad, which is exactly how I feel about this thing called life. Mine hasn't always been sunshine and roses, in fact, there are parts I would never wish on anyone, but it doesn't mean that things can't end up on a good note.
Monday, March 11, 2019
Not What I Thought It Was Going To Be
Devil in the White City by Erik Larson
I read this for a couple of reasons. First, my son, who has similar reading interests to mine suggested this to me because he liked it. Second, it is being made into a series on either Netflix or Hulu, so I thought I should read it.
This is one of those books that has more details than I need, and not enough dialogue to move the story along. Also, despite being told that this is equal in subject matter (the Chicago World's Fair and H.H. Holmes), it is not. There is far more devoted to the intricacies of the World's Fair than there was to the famous murderer. You might get five pages about Holmes and ten to fifteen about the Fair. I just didn't care that much about the Fair.
Also, I ended up having to listen to the audiobook and follow along with my print copy because I couldn't get very far into the book without wanting to go to sleep. I blame all the descriptions and lack of dialogue.
There are whole pages on the audiobook that don't appear in the print copy, so there's some confusion when following along. There are also sections of the book that are irrelevant to both the Fair and Holmes. For example, what was the point of including the part about the HMS Victoria? It had NOTHING to do with the rest of the story.
This was less than 400 pages, and should have been a piece of cake to read. It was not. Part of me wants the time I invested in this back.
I read this for a couple of reasons. First, my son, who has similar reading interests to mine suggested this to me because he liked it. Second, it is being made into a series on either Netflix or Hulu, so I thought I should read it.
This is one of those books that has more details than I need, and not enough dialogue to move the story along. Also, despite being told that this is equal in subject matter (the Chicago World's Fair and H.H. Holmes), it is not. There is far more devoted to the intricacies of the World's Fair than there was to the famous murderer. You might get five pages about Holmes and ten to fifteen about the Fair. I just didn't care that much about the Fair.
Also, I ended up having to listen to the audiobook and follow along with my print copy because I couldn't get very far into the book without wanting to go to sleep. I blame all the descriptions and lack of dialogue.
There are whole pages on the audiobook that don't appear in the print copy, so there's some confusion when following along. There are also sections of the book that are irrelevant to both the Fair and Holmes. For example, what was the point of including the part about the HMS Victoria? It had NOTHING to do with the rest of the story.
This was less than 400 pages, and should have been a piece of cake to read. It was not. Part of me wants the time I invested in this back.
Thursday, March 7, 2019
TAYSHAS 2019 #15
I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika Sanchez
I can't believe it has been two weeks since I finished a book! Holy cow, that is so unlike me. To be fair, I have been busy with both my jobs, and my son came home for a visit, so reading has taken a backseat.
This one I put on hold a couple of months ago, and anxiously awaited being able to read it, as I had heard good things. Unfortunately, I didn't get as much time to read it as I wanted to, as the online library service I used did not notify me when the book was available and I lost a week. I finished with minutes to spare, and it was worth every minute I spent reading it.
Julia is fifteen and a junior in high school in Chicago. She speaks her mind, which often gets her into trouble. This was the case the day her older sister, Olga, died. Olga would not have had to ride the bus, had it not been for Julia getting into trouble at school and having to be picked up.
Julia's perception is that Olga was the perfect Mexican daughter. She didn't have much of a social life, she cooked and cleaned, and spent time with their parents. Julia is the opposite. She is very much wanting to get away from home, which is an environment that stifles her. Unfortunately, with her sister's death, more is expected of Julia.
On top of the things going on in her own life, Julia discovers some secrets about Olga. She feels like she needs to know more, but is having a hard time making headway, what with our privacy laws. Additionally, her mother continues to be hard on her, which leads to a breakdown.
Will Julia ever learn the secrets about her sainted sister, and will she ever get to just be who she is instead of who her mother wants her to be?
I can't believe it has been two weeks since I finished a book! Holy cow, that is so unlike me. To be fair, I have been busy with both my jobs, and my son came home for a visit, so reading has taken a backseat.
This one I put on hold a couple of months ago, and anxiously awaited being able to read it, as I had heard good things. Unfortunately, I didn't get as much time to read it as I wanted to, as the online library service I used did not notify me when the book was available and I lost a week. I finished with minutes to spare, and it was worth every minute I spent reading it.
Julia is fifteen and a junior in high school in Chicago. She speaks her mind, which often gets her into trouble. This was the case the day her older sister, Olga, died. Olga would not have had to ride the bus, had it not been for Julia getting into trouble at school and having to be picked up.
Julia's perception is that Olga was the perfect Mexican daughter. She didn't have much of a social life, she cooked and cleaned, and spent time with their parents. Julia is the opposite. She is very much wanting to get away from home, which is an environment that stifles her. Unfortunately, with her sister's death, more is expected of Julia.
On top of the things going on in her own life, Julia discovers some secrets about Olga. She feels like she needs to know more, but is having a hard time making headway, what with our privacy laws. Additionally, her mother continues to be hard on her, which leads to a breakdown.
Will Julia ever learn the secrets about her sainted sister, and will she ever get to just be who she is instead of who her mother wants her to be?
Monday, February 18, 2019
A Tale of Two Brothers
Ultimatum by KM Walton
Oscar and Vance are brothers, but they couldn't be more different if they tried. Oscar is into Mozart and art, while Vance is into reggae and lacrosse. Oscar looks like their dad, but is more like their mother, and Vance looks more like their mother and acts like their dad. In short, they don't get along very well because they don't understand each other and where they are coming from.
They lost their mother in a car accident three years ago, and now their father is in hospice because he has basically drunk himself to dead. They're kids, and they have to figure out each other, as well as life after losing their parents.
This is told in two perspectives. Oscar tells his in the present, while Vance tells his in the past working toward the present. This is handy because you can see the progression and the catalysts for why and how things have ended up this way.
In a lot of ways, this doesn't live up to the standards set by Walton's first book, but in a lot of ways it surpasses it too. Definitely worth the read.
Oscar and Vance are brothers, but they couldn't be more different if they tried. Oscar is into Mozart and art, while Vance is into reggae and lacrosse. Oscar looks like their dad, but is more like their mother, and Vance looks more like their mother and acts like their dad. In short, they don't get along very well because they don't understand each other and where they are coming from.
They lost their mother in a car accident three years ago, and now their father is in hospice because he has basically drunk himself to dead. They're kids, and they have to figure out each other, as well as life after losing their parents.
This is told in two perspectives. Oscar tells his in the present, while Vance tells his in the past working toward the present. This is handy because you can see the progression and the catalysts for why and how things have ended up this way.
In a lot of ways, this doesn't live up to the standards set by Walton's first book, but in a lot of ways it surpasses it too. Definitely worth the read.
Sunday, February 10, 2019
Frequently Challenged
Whale Talk by Chris Crutcher
A few weeks ago, I decided to do a Frequently Challenged Book Unit with my Pre-AP students. I compiled a list of fifteen frequently challenged books that I happen to have in my classroom library. Of the fifteen, I had read all but two. This was one of the two, and this was my reason to move it up on my to be read list. Honestly, I wish this is one I had read earlier because I would've book talked the heck out of this for my students. Like everything else I have read by Chris Crutcher, this is phenomenal.
There's a lot going on in this book: bigotry, abuse, racism, athleticism, you name it, it's probably in this book. I read one of the one-star reviews on Amazon that basically indicated that all of the things going on in this book detracted from the story and nothing was resolved. I wish I could shake some sense into that person because they were completely wrong.
This is told by The Tao Jones, or TJ, as everyone calls him. He's a senior at Cutter High. Apparently, all the athletic teams at school want him, but he refuses to be a part of the athletic culture because it is made up of jerks. Case in point: one of the star football players threatens a mentally challenged student because said student is wearing his dead brother's letterman, and that is "against the rules." TJ himself is adopted, having come from an abusive and neglectful situation, so he sees himself in the underdog most of the time.
TJ is approached by one of his teachers to start a swim team. Nevermind that the school doesn't actually have a pool. TJ thinks about it, and what makes him decide to do it is the letterman incident I just mentioned. He thinks that if there is a way for that student to earn his own letterman, maybe the football players will leave him alone. So he recruits a handful of misfits to become his swim team.
Over the course of this book, we see these young men grow in ways you don't expect, but especially TJ. I could write for days and not cover everything that needs to be said about this book, but take it from me, you won't be disappointed that you read this.
A few weeks ago, I decided to do a Frequently Challenged Book Unit with my Pre-AP students. I compiled a list of fifteen frequently challenged books that I happen to have in my classroom library. Of the fifteen, I had read all but two. This was one of the two, and this was my reason to move it up on my to be read list. Honestly, I wish this is one I had read earlier because I would've book talked the heck out of this for my students. Like everything else I have read by Chris Crutcher, this is phenomenal.
There's a lot going on in this book: bigotry, abuse, racism, athleticism, you name it, it's probably in this book. I read one of the one-star reviews on Amazon that basically indicated that all of the things going on in this book detracted from the story and nothing was resolved. I wish I could shake some sense into that person because they were completely wrong.
This is told by The Tao Jones, or TJ, as everyone calls him. He's a senior at Cutter High. Apparently, all the athletic teams at school want him, but he refuses to be a part of the athletic culture because it is made up of jerks. Case in point: one of the star football players threatens a mentally challenged student because said student is wearing his dead brother's letterman, and that is "against the rules." TJ himself is adopted, having come from an abusive and neglectful situation, so he sees himself in the underdog most of the time.
TJ is approached by one of his teachers to start a swim team. Nevermind that the school doesn't actually have a pool. TJ thinks about it, and what makes him decide to do it is the letterman incident I just mentioned. He thinks that if there is a way for that student to earn his own letterman, maybe the football players will leave him alone. So he recruits a handful of misfits to become his swim team.
Over the course of this book, we see these young men grow in ways you don't expect, but especially TJ. I could write for days and not cover everything that needs to be said about this book, but take it from me, you won't be disappointed that you read this.
Monday, February 4, 2019
TAYSHAS 2019 #14
Mary's Monster by Lita Judge
Running out of TAYSHAS that I want to read, and all the ones I want to read have long waitlists. I saw that this was reasonably short when I came across my department secretary reading it the other day, so I thought I'd give it a shot. Good call.
This is told in free verse, which I told my students today, lends a conversational quality to the reading. That is exactly how I felt reading this: like the narrator was having a conversation with me.
I was a little disappointed because the name of the book implies that the story is about how Frankenstein came to be. One could argue that that is EXACTLY what this book is about, but for me, it was a simple biography of Mary Shelley. Maybe I am missing something, but there was very little in her story that could be considered a direct link to the creation of her most well-known book.
All that said, it was interesting to get a glimpse into the life of the WOMAN who created the sci-fi genre as we know it. Her story is every bit as depressing as that of Edgar Allan Poe, but a lesser known one, it seems.
My biggest complaint about the book was the format. I downloaded it to my kindle, or tried to anyway. I could not use my paperwhite, but when I tried to read it on my fire, I couldn't increase the size of the font. Luckily, I was able to enlarge the font on my Ipad, but then I had to contend with the glare. I know, I know--first world problems.
Running out of TAYSHAS that I want to read, and all the ones I want to read have long waitlists. I saw that this was reasonably short when I came across my department secretary reading it the other day, so I thought I'd give it a shot. Good call.
This is told in free verse, which I told my students today, lends a conversational quality to the reading. That is exactly how I felt reading this: like the narrator was having a conversation with me.
I was a little disappointed because the name of the book implies that the story is about how Frankenstein came to be. One could argue that that is EXACTLY what this book is about, but for me, it was a simple biography of Mary Shelley. Maybe I am missing something, but there was very little in her story that could be considered a direct link to the creation of her most well-known book.
All that said, it was interesting to get a glimpse into the life of the WOMAN who created the sci-fi genre as we know it. Her story is every bit as depressing as that of Edgar Allan Poe, but a lesser known one, it seems.
My biggest complaint about the book was the format. I downloaded it to my kindle, or tried to anyway. I could not use my paperwhite, but when I tried to read it on my fire, I couldn't increase the size of the font. Luckily, I was able to enlarge the font on my Ipad, but then I had to contend with the glare. I know, I know--first world problems.
Saturday, February 2, 2019
TAYSHAS 2019 #13
Dear Rachel Maddow by Adrienne Kisner
I love books told in an epistolary format, so when I realized that was the case with this one, I was excited to read it.
Brynn is a junior in high school. She used to care about school, but hasn't lately, so all her classes are in the lower level of the school, where the special ed kids are. Honestly, context clues told me she had a learning disability of some kind, but she used to be with the other kids and seems kinda bummed that she isn't anymore.
Brynn's older brother is dead, her dad left, her mom is married to a loser, her girlfriend broke up with her, and there are jerks at school implying that those not in honors classes are somehow less than. Suffice it to say, Brynn has a lot to deal with. So, when her English teacher has them email a famous person, she does. She even gets a response from Rachel Maddow, the celebrity she chose. Because she received a response, her teacher encouraged her to contact Ms. Maddow again. What results is a series of unsent emails to Rachel Maddow where Brynn works through her life's difficulties.
I liked this because it gave me an insight into the mind of a troubled teen. She's not so different than the ones sitting in my classroom day after day, and anything that helps me to empathize with them is a good thing.
I love books told in an epistolary format, so when I realized that was the case with this one, I was excited to read it.
Brynn is a junior in high school. She used to care about school, but hasn't lately, so all her classes are in the lower level of the school, where the special ed kids are. Honestly, context clues told me she had a learning disability of some kind, but she used to be with the other kids and seems kinda bummed that she isn't anymore.
Brynn's older brother is dead, her dad left, her mom is married to a loser, her girlfriend broke up with her, and there are jerks at school implying that those not in honors classes are somehow less than. Suffice it to say, Brynn has a lot to deal with. So, when her English teacher has them email a famous person, she does. She even gets a response from Rachel Maddow, the celebrity she chose. Because she received a response, her teacher encouraged her to contact Ms. Maddow again. What results is a series of unsent emails to Rachel Maddow where Brynn works through her life's difficulties.
I liked this because it gave me an insight into the mind of a troubled teen. She's not so different than the ones sitting in my classroom day after day, and anything that helps me to empathize with them is a good thing.
Six Classes, Six Short Stories
Athletic Shorts by Chris Crutcher
February 1 was World Read Aloud Day. As a librarian wannabe, I felt it was my duty to participate. I learned earlier in the week that this was supposed to promote picture books, which I was not averse to, but I didn't want to have to find a million picture books to read to my high school students. So, I did a little research and discovered that it didn't necessarily have to be picture books. Thank goodness for that because I just might have gone nuts.
Since I could pretty much read what I wanted to, I thought it might be best to go with some short stories because I wouldn't be able to get through a whole book with each class. I chose this one because Chris Crutcher is an awesome author, and I happened to have this on the shelf of my classroom library. It turned out to be perfect because this is a compilation of six short stories, and I teach six classes. As I told my students, each class would have their own unique experience.
This is a set that did not disappoint! From reading about Anges with my first period class and being grossed out with licking perspiration soaked fingers, to the stories of Johnny and Petey in second and fourth periods, the heartbreak of Lion in fifth, racism and laughing too hard in sixth with the Telephone man, and learning not to be a bigot in seventh, it was a great day of reading to my kids.
February 1 was World Read Aloud Day. As a librarian wannabe, I felt it was my duty to participate. I learned earlier in the week that this was supposed to promote picture books, which I was not averse to, but I didn't want to have to find a million picture books to read to my high school students. So, I did a little research and discovered that it didn't necessarily have to be picture books. Thank goodness for that because I just might have gone nuts.
Since I could pretty much read what I wanted to, I thought it might be best to go with some short stories because I wouldn't be able to get through a whole book with each class. I chose this one because Chris Crutcher is an awesome author, and I happened to have this on the shelf of my classroom library. It turned out to be perfect because this is a compilation of six short stories, and I teach six classes. As I told my students, each class would have their own unique experience.
This is a set that did not disappoint! From reading about Anges with my first period class and being grossed out with licking perspiration soaked fingers, to the stories of Johnny and Petey in second and fourth periods, the heartbreak of Lion in fifth, racism and laughing too hard in sixth with the Telephone man, and learning not to be a bigot in seventh, it was a great day of reading to my kids.
Monday, January 21, 2019
TAYSHAS 2019 #12
Starry Eyes by Jenn Bennett
I have wanted to read this for a while, long before it made the TAYSHAS list. I loved Alex, Approximately by the same author, and figured there was a good chance I'd like this too. I did. The thing is, neither book really should be on the TAYSHAS list. Both are fun to read, but both are basically fluff--not that there's anything wrong with fluff.
Zorie is almost a senior in high school in the San Francisco area. Her parents are an acupuncturist and masseuse in their own clinic, so Zorie works for them as a receptionist. Her father's clientele has started to dwindle because, according to her father, of the sex toy shop next door. Zorie is forbidden to go over there because her father hates the owners, who used to be their friends before they opened their shop. Zorie goes to retrieve a misdelivered package, which turns out to be photos of her father with another woman. This is not even the main conflict of the story either.
The main conflict starts out with Zorie being invited to go on a glamping trip with a friend from school, Reagan. Apparently, Zorie and Reagan used to be fairly close, but then Reagan's family became wealthy, so Zorie was pushed to the side a little. Zorie doesn't really want to go on this trip, but she feels pressured by her mother and Reagan, so she goes. Turns out there will be boys on the trip. One of these boys, Brett, Zorie has a huge crush on. Another boy, Lennon, is the son of the sex shop owners, and broke Zorie's heart at homecoming the previous year.
So they go glamping. Brett gets them all kicked out of the glamping compound because he steals wine and then pees on a neighboring yurt. It's still ok at this point because they were going to go camping in the back country anyway, so they do that a little earlier than expected. Once there, Brett's tent is destroyed by a bear because he can't be bothered to follow simple instructions. This causes a rift between Reagan and Zorie because Reagan and Brett are going out, but only because Reagan is making it a big deal. By this point, Zorie sees what an idiot Brett is, so the thrill is gone. In response, Reagan, Brett and the other two people who came with them up and leave Lennon and Zorie to find their way home.
Over the course of the next couple of days, Zorie and Lennon confront their feelings about their past and present. There's a snake bite, and a lot of hiking. Then we're brought back to the problem of Zorie's dad.
Again, this was a nice read, but after a certain point, all I kept thinking was "Can they just go ahead and have sex already. Jeez."
I have wanted to read this for a while, long before it made the TAYSHAS list. I loved Alex, Approximately by the same author, and figured there was a good chance I'd like this too. I did. The thing is, neither book really should be on the TAYSHAS list. Both are fun to read, but both are basically fluff--not that there's anything wrong with fluff.
Zorie is almost a senior in high school in the San Francisco area. Her parents are an acupuncturist and masseuse in their own clinic, so Zorie works for them as a receptionist. Her father's clientele has started to dwindle because, according to her father, of the sex toy shop next door. Zorie is forbidden to go over there because her father hates the owners, who used to be their friends before they opened their shop. Zorie goes to retrieve a misdelivered package, which turns out to be photos of her father with another woman. This is not even the main conflict of the story either.
The main conflict starts out with Zorie being invited to go on a glamping trip with a friend from school, Reagan. Apparently, Zorie and Reagan used to be fairly close, but then Reagan's family became wealthy, so Zorie was pushed to the side a little. Zorie doesn't really want to go on this trip, but she feels pressured by her mother and Reagan, so she goes. Turns out there will be boys on the trip. One of these boys, Brett, Zorie has a huge crush on. Another boy, Lennon, is the son of the sex shop owners, and broke Zorie's heart at homecoming the previous year.
So they go glamping. Brett gets them all kicked out of the glamping compound because he steals wine and then pees on a neighboring yurt. It's still ok at this point because they were going to go camping in the back country anyway, so they do that a little earlier than expected. Once there, Brett's tent is destroyed by a bear because he can't be bothered to follow simple instructions. This causes a rift between Reagan and Zorie because Reagan and Brett are going out, but only because Reagan is making it a big deal. By this point, Zorie sees what an idiot Brett is, so the thrill is gone. In response, Reagan, Brett and the other two people who came with them up and leave Lennon and Zorie to find their way home.
Over the course of the next couple of days, Zorie and Lennon confront their feelings about their past and present. There's a snake bite, and a lot of hiking. Then we're brought back to the problem of Zorie's dad.
Again, this was a nice read, but after a certain point, all I kept thinking was "Can they just go ahead and have sex already. Jeez."
Monday, January 14, 2019
TAYSHAS 2019 #11
The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo
This is one of the top ten picks on this year's list, and it is well deserved. It is told in verse, so it is a quicker read than most, but it has a lot to say.
Xiomara is about to be a sophomore in high school. She's a twin. She lives in Harlem. Her mother wanted to be a nun before she met the twins' father, and their father got around, if you know what I mean. Xiomara feels like she doesn't live up to their expectations, and she writes poetry to deal with her feelings.
Even her poetry seems to get her into trouble with her mother though, and it costs X seemingly everything.
This is one of the top ten picks on this year's list, and it is well deserved. It is told in verse, so it is a quicker read than most, but it has a lot to say.
Xiomara is about to be a sophomore in high school. She's a twin. She lives in Harlem. Her mother wanted to be a nun before she met the twins' father, and their father got around, if you know what I mean. Xiomara feels like she doesn't live up to their expectations, and she writes poetry to deal with her feelings.
Even her poetry seems to get her into trouble with her mother though, and it costs X seemingly everything.
Sunday, January 6, 2019
TAYSHAS 2019 #10
When Dimple Met Rishi by Sandhya Menon
Sometimes you just need an easy read, and this was definitely an easy read. Sometimes I wonder why books like this make the TAYSHAS list. I say this not because the book was bad in any way, but because I tend to think books that make award lists should offer a bit more substance. Then again, I most likely wouldn't have read this if it hadn't made the TAYSHAS list, so there's that.
Dimple just graduated high school. She is going to Stanford in the fall. She is an only child of Indian parents. She is very interested in web design and coding. She has big plans for herself, but those plans don't necessarily line up with her parents' plans for her. If it were up to her mother, Dimple would marry the man of their choosing and have children as soon as possible. Dimple doesn't necessarily want that for herself. So, when the opportunity to go to a summer program/contest at SFSU comes up, Dimple is surprised that her parents let her go.
Rishi also just graduated high school, and is going to MIT in the fall. He is the oldest of two sons born to Indian parents. His passion lies in art, but he is going to study engineering because he can't stand to let his parents down. He also has an opportunity to go to the summer program/contest at SFSU, but his heart really isn't in it. He is going to meet the girl that his parents (and hers) have decided will be his wife. He is to use this time to get to know her and woo her.
When Dimple and Rishi first meet, it isn't love at first sight, at least for Dimple. She is startled and throws her iced coffee at Rishi. Then, they are paired up for the duration of this summer program. They get to know each other, and if you are a sap like me, your heart is going to swell when they finally kiss about halfway through the book. Will Dimple give up everything she wants to be with Rishi?
Like I said, this was an easy read. A sweet love story. It was also very predictable. Even still, I enjoyed it.
Sometimes you just need an easy read, and this was definitely an easy read. Sometimes I wonder why books like this make the TAYSHAS list. I say this not because the book was bad in any way, but because I tend to think books that make award lists should offer a bit more substance. Then again, I most likely wouldn't have read this if it hadn't made the TAYSHAS list, so there's that.
Dimple just graduated high school. She is going to Stanford in the fall. She is an only child of Indian parents. She is very interested in web design and coding. She has big plans for herself, but those plans don't necessarily line up with her parents' plans for her. If it were up to her mother, Dimple would marry the man of their choosing and have children as soon as possible. Dimple doesn't necessarily want that for herself. So, when the opportunity to go to a summer program/contest at SFSU comes up, Dimple is surprised that her parents let her go.
Rishi also just graduated high school, and is going to MIT in the fall. He is the oldest of two sons born to Indian parents. His passion lies in art, but he is going to study engineering because he can't stand to let his parents down. He also has an opportunity to go to the summer program/contest at SFSU, but his heart really isn't in it. He is going to meet the girl that his parents (and hers) have decided will be his wife. He is to use this time to get to know her and woo her.
When Dimple and Rishi first meet, it isn't love at first sight, at least for Dimple. She is startled and throws her iced coffee at Rishi. Then, they are paired up for the duration of this summer program. They get to know each other, and if you are a sap like me, your heart is going to swell when they finally kiss about halfway through the book. Will Dimple give up everything she wants to be with Rishi?
Like I said, this was an easy read. A sweet love story. It was also very predictable. Even still, I enjoyed it.
Friday, January 4, 2019
TAYSHAS 2019 #9
Bang by Barry Lyga
Everything I knew I wanted to read on the TAYSHAS list is currently checked out on Overdrive, so I had to look a little farther than I was prepared for at this point. No worries though. I have read this author before, and knew it would likely be a good read. I wasn't wrong.
Sebastian is fourteen years old. It's June and near the end of his freshman year of high school. It also happens to be the tenth anniversary of the day he accidentally shot his four-month-old sister. Sebastian has let this one act when he was a toddler define his life. He has few friends, lives with his mother (who has removed all evidence of his baby sister from the house), and sees his father only twice a year. Before the end of summer vacation, he plans to kill himself. Needless to say, Sebastian is not in a good place. It doesn't help that everyone in his town knows what he did, and that always colors their feelings for him.
So when he meets Aneesa when he is out riding his bike one day after school, it changes things, at least for a little while. She is new to the area and doesn't know what he did. Sebastian and Aneesa start spending a great deal of time together, and Sebastian clearly has feelings beyond mere friendship for her. He even shares his secret about his sister, and it doesn't scare Aneesa off. Even better, the "voice" that tells Sebastian he should kill himself has been all but silenced during this time.
Unfortunately, when school starts back, things change, and not for the better. All those old feelings start to come back, and what really sends Sebastian over the edge is a semester-long assignment for his English class. He doesn't react well.
I won't spoil the end because, as you know, that's not how I roll. This was definitely worth the read.
Everything I knew I wanted to read on the TAYSHAS list is currently checked out on Overdrive, so I had to look a little farther than I was prepared for at this point. No worries though. I have read this author before, and knew it would likely be a good read. I wasn't wrong.
Sebastian is fourteen years old. It's June and near the end of his freshman year of high school. It also happens to be the tenth anniversary of the day he accidentally shot his four-month-old sister. Sebastian has let this one act when he was a toddler define his life. He has few friends, lives with his mother (who has removed all evidence of his baby sister from the house), and sees his father only twice a year. Before the end of summer vacation, he plans to kill himself. Needless to say, Sebastian is not in a good place. It doesn't help that everyone in his town knows what he did, and that always colors their feelings for him.
So when he meets Aneesa when he is out riding his bike one day after school, it changes things, at least for a little while. She is new to the area and doesn't know what he did. Sebastian and Aneesa start spending a great deal of time together, and Sebastian clearly has feelings beyond mere friendship for her. He even shares his secret about his sister, and it doesn't scare Aneesa off. Even better, the "voice" that tells Sebastian he should kill himself has been all but silenced during this time.
Unfortunately, when school starts back, things change, and not for the better. All those old feelings start to come back, and what really sends Sebastian over the edge is a semester-long assignment for his English class. He doesn't react well.
I won't spoil the end because, as you know, that's not how I roll. This was definitely worth the read.
Thursday, January 3, 2019
TAYSHAS 2019 #8
What the Night Sings by Vesper Stamper
I read this one because it came highly recommended by my school librarian... not necessarily a recommendation for me, but for a coworker. Whatever.
This is a novel set during the Holocaust. In Germany. Of course, I wanted to read it because Holocaust novels are generally, in my experience, interesting. This was interesting, but not on par with Anne Frank's Diary of a Young Girl or Elie Wiesel's Night. Perhaps this is because this is entirely fiction based on real events, written by someone who didn't experience the Holocaust first hand. Again, it wasn't badly written in any way, it just didn't resonate quite the same way that those nonfiction books did.
When the book starts, Gerta is sixteen. She is comforting the woman in the bunk with her at the Bergen Belsen camp. Her bunkmate dies in her arms, and literally minutes later, the camp is liberated by the British. During the liberation, Gerta is removed from her barrack and placed on the ground with a young man named Lev. Thus begins a friendship between the two.
There are some flashbacks to Gerta's growing up and capture. She did not know she was Jewish, as her father and stepmother had some forged documents to show she was Aryan. For the longest time, Gerta thought it was her stepmother who turned her and her father in.
At one point, another young man, Michah, shows up at the camp. He, as it turns out, is the son of Gerta's bunkmate who died. Gerta has a bit of a crush on him, but he turns out to be a player. Meanwhile, Lev has a giant crush on Gerta. He even asks her to marry him.
One underlying thing over the whole book is the role music plays in Gerta's life. She was in training for the opera, and plays the viola because her father was a violist. Music is what kept her from the ovens in the camps, and music is what kept her going.
Again, this wasn't a badly written book, but it did lack something that I can't quite put my finger on.
I read this one because it came highly recommended by my school librarian... not necessarily a recommendation for me, but for a coworker. Whatever.
This is a novel set during the Holocaust. In Germany. Of course, I wanted to read it because Holocaust novels are generally, in my experience, interesting. This was interesting, but not on par with Anne Frank's Diary of a Young Girl or Elie Wiesel's Night. Perhaps this is because this is entirely fiction based on real events, written by someone who didn't experience the Holocaust first hand. Again, it wasn't badly written in any way, it just didn't resonate quite the same way that those nonfiction books did.
When the book starts, Gerta is sixteen. She is comforting the woman in the bunk with her at the Bergen Belsen camp. Her bunkmate dies in her arms, and literally minutes later, the camp is liberated by the British. During the liberation, Gerta is removed from her barrack and placed on the ground with a young man named Lev. Thus begins a friendship between the two.
There are some flashbacks to Gerta's growing up and capture. She did not know she was Jewish, as her father and stepmother had some forged documents to show she was Aryan. For the longest time, Gerta thought it was her stepmother who turned her and her father in.
At one point, another young man, Michah, shows up at the camp. He, as it turns out, is the son of Gerta's bunkmate who died. Gerta has a bit of a crush on him, but he turns out to be a player. Meanwhile, Lev has a giant crush on Gerta. He even asks her to marry him.
One underlying thing over the whole book is the role music plays in Gerta's life. She was in training for the opera, and plays the viola because her father was a violist. Music is what kept her from the ovens in the camps, and music is what kept her going.
Again, this wasn't a badly written book, but it did lack something that I can't quite put my finger on.
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