Book Review: Diary of a Wimpy Kid | By Jeff Kinney

Finally! I have my hands on this book! Yes, it just suck to actually read the second book first before reading the first book within a series. Honestly… that was really annoying to do.

Regressing!

This is a wonderful start to a wonderful series. It is attention grabbing enough to cater our reluctant readers as well as our middle graders (being in an ESL educated school). It’s “new” way to get kids to read (not just kids, we adults seem to be like this book too.) Other than paving a way through new sub-genre, this just shows.. what’s normal, is relative.

I actually have fun reading this book that I actually finished reading this in one seating! It was a quick 1 hour or so sort of book, so it’s a wonderful quickie. The comics are silly and not quite as just illustrations, it’s more of part of the story itself.

Bottomline, don’t you just wish you wrote this book? hehe

Diary of a Wimpy Kid (Diary of a Wimpy Kid #1)
By Jeff Kinney
Boys don't keep diaries—or do they?
The launch of an exciting and innovatively illustrated new series narrated by an unforgettable kid every family can relate to
It's a new school year, and Greg Heffley finds himself thrust into middle school, where undersized weaklings share the hallways with kids who are taller, meaner, and already shaving. The hazards of growing up before you're ready are uniquely revealed through words and drawings as Greg records them in his diary.
In book one of this debut series, Greg is happy to have Rowley, his sidekick, along for the ride. But when Rowley's star starts to rise, Greg tries to use his best friend's newfound popularity to his own advantage, kicking off a chain of events that will test their friendship in hilarious fashion.

finished reading : 20th November 2011
rate } ♠♠♠♠♠
genre } fiction | children | realistic | humor |graphic novels | juvenile 
release day }  April 2007
publisher } Amulet Books 
format } paperback
isbn } 9780810994553
pages } 224 pages
source } bought
age group } 12+
interests } reluctant readers | middle graders | 9 yo+  
awards } ALA Teens’ Top Ten (2008)
Get Your Copy } Amazon.com

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Book Review: A Child Called It: One Child’s Courage To Survive (Dave Pelzer #1); By Dave Pelzer

rate } ♠♠♠♠
genre } non-fiction | biography | child abuse
release day } 1st September 1995
publisher } HCI
format } e-book
isbn } B004FN1T3K
pages } 195 pg.
source } bought
age group } pg 13+
interest } young adult | teens | adults
challenge }
Buy @ Amazon.com | Nolly Book | D BookHaus

A Child Called It: One Child’s Courage To Survive
(Dave Pelzer #1)
by; Dave Pelzer

Via GoodReads
David J. Pelzer's mother, Catherine Roerva, was, he writes in this ghastly, fascinating memoir, a devoted den mother to the Cub Scouts in her care, and somewhat nurturant to her children--but not to David, whom she referred to as "an It." This book is a brief, horrifying account of the bizarre tortures she inflicted on him, told from the point of view of the author as a young boy being starved, stabbed, smashed face-first into mirrors, forced to eat the contents of his sibling's diapers and a spoonful of ammonia, and burned over a gas stove by a maniacal, alcoholic mom. Sometimes she claimed he had violated some rule--no walking on the grass at school!--but mostly it was pure sadism. Inexplicably, his father didn't protect him; only an alert schoolteacher saved David. One wants to learn more about his ordeal and its aftermath, and now he's written a sequel, The Lost Boy, detailing his life in the foster-care system.

Though it's a grim story, A Child Called "It" is very much in the tradition of Chicken Soup for the Couple's Soul and the many books in that upbeat series, whose author Pelzer thanks for helping get his book going. It's all about weathering adversity to find love, and Pelzer is an expert witness.

My 2 Cents
** SPOILERS ALERT **


People has been bugging me badly to read this book ever since before I was into biographies. And last night, after letting it lay there.. with thunderstorm drumming overhead.. I was bored so I picked it up.

... and I didn't stop reading it until 3 hours later.. at 1 am.. on a work night.... Work night!

…and it left me all emotional after reading it.. thinking.. what the hell?! What a sick sick mother! I was woke up thinking, I must have missed the trigger.

.. and it turned out I didn't. I never thought I be so floored. The last time I read something that left me aghast, was My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult.

...And there was a heartless mother in that too! That one was at least fiction! I'm beginning to see a pattern here.

Oh wow... I can't really review this. This is a story of a person's real life.
Burnt, gas, stab, starve... I was trying to figure out if he was adopted (he wasn't), or a bastard (he wasn't).. Dear God I need to gather myself.. for this review.

I was pulled into his world. I cringed but I couldn't stop reading. It's like.. I can't abandon him, I feel like I was abandoning him if I Stop reading. What kind of mother woke up one day, and decided "Hey.. I hate this kid." Worse yet, degrade him. refuse acknowledgement, that he has an identity. Kill him slowly. But only him. (turned out there's another brother who "replace" his victim spot when he was taken away from home.)

Oh dear, I'm horrified. He's father was helpless... But he could have taken little Dave away from the monster in the house. but he didn't.

Oh my, I have come down to the point where I'm not sure how to review this book. In fact, I ended up judging instead of reviewing.

Anyway... one thing for sure.. If you are down and think your life stinks, read this. And guess what... Dave Pelzer survived. He pulled through a torturous life with a monster he called mom, who probably killed him if nobody help him out, or if he gave up.

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Book Review: The Son of Neptune (Heroes of Olympus #2): by Rick Riordan

rate } ♠♠♠♠
genre } young adult | greek mythology | roman mythology | fantasy | action & adventure
release day } 4th October 2011
publisher } Disney Hyperion
format } e-book & hardback
isbn } B0053TMP24
pages } 544 pg.
source } bought
age group } pg 13+
interest } young adult | teens
challenge }
Buy @ Amazon.com | Nolly Book | D BookHaus

The Son of Neptune
(Heroes of Olympus)
By; Rick Riordan

Via Goodreads
Seven half-bloods shall answer the call,
To storm or fire the world must fall.
An oath to keep with a final breath,
And foes bear arms to the Doors of Death.

Percy is confused. When he awoke from his long sleep, he didn't know much more than his name. His brain fuzz is lingering, even after the wolf Lupa told him he is a demigod and trained him to fight with the pen/sword in his pocket. Somehow Percy manages to make it to a camp for half-bloods, despite the fact that he has to keep killing monsters along the way. But the camp doesn't ring and bells with him. The only thing he can recall from his past is another name: Annabeth

Hazel is supposed to be dead. When she lived before, she didn't do a very good job of it. Sure, she was an obedient daughter, even when her mother was possessed by greed. But that was the problem - when the Voice took over he mother and commanded Hazel to use her "gift" for and evil purpose, Hazel couldn't say no. Now because of her mistake, the future of the world is at risk. Hazel wished she could ride away from it all on the stallion that appears in her dreams.

Frank is a klutz. His grandmother says he is descended from heroes and can be anything he wants to be, but he doesn't see it. He doesn't even know who his father is. He keeps hoping Apollo will claim him, because the only thing he is good at is archery - although not good enough to win camp war games. His bulky physique makes him feel like an ox, especially infront of Hazel, his closest friend at camp. He trusts her completely - enough to share the secret he holds close to his heart.

Beginning at the "other" camp for half-bloods and extending as far as the land beyond the gods, this breathtaking second installment of the Heroes of Olympus series introduces new demigods, revives fearsome monsters, and features other remarkable creatures, all destined to play a part in the Prophesy of Seven.


My 2 Cents
Yes!! Percy is back baby! I couldn’t wait for my hardcopy to arrived that I actually bought the Kindle version just to satiate myself. Could you blame me?

This book has been a fresh of air for this whole Percy series. Percy lost his memory, Percy confused, Percy back to square one.. but I have to admit.. I love the fact Percy is not the the main protagonist in this book. Yes, some of you might not agree with me. But I actually enjoy the fact that we’re weren’t going going to reread his past adventures via his memories here.

Frank and Hazel from the Roman camp was actually refreshing. The fresh eyes, fresh history, fresh adventures. But I hate to say it, there were parts that dragged. It’s like the author was trying to explain the background or fun facts of things regarding some of things within the chapters. Hence there’s only 4 ♠s

I can’t help for that special love I have for Ares.. err I mean Mars, has been reaffirmed. He is more attentive, if I may say, to his children here. Maybe it’s due to being in a Roman-ic environment is more of his thing, rather than he was back in Camp Half-Blood. Yup, he was always one of my favorites. *swoon*

So overall? Mythology knowledge should be in that level where you know who is who, and who is what. Knowledge and background of the prequels from this book, is essential, or you be lost. So that means, Pick up Percy Jackson’s series before you read this series! Grab “The Lost Hero” as well. Otherwise, all is good and I’m definitely in ♥ with this book.

So looking forward to The Mark of Athena next year.

Fun Fact: I read this for the 2011’s 24 hr Dewey Read-a-thon

"When She Reads" is a blog mostly dedicated to the almost lost art reading. The Reader, namely Lisa, reads a long range of genre that includes children, young adults, teens, adult fiction, horror, fantasy, steam punk, science fiction, graphic novels, mystery, thrillers, a bit of non-fiction here and there. Lisa is also a librarian, webmiss, book reviewer and a writer all roll in one. Thanks for dropping by and please do leave a comment.

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Book Review: Delia’s Heart (Delia #02); By V.C. Andrews

genre } young adult | drama
release day } 20th December 2008
publisher } Pocket
format } e-book
pages } 384 pg.
source } bought
age group } 18 sx
interest } young adult
challenge } -
Buy @ Amazon.com

Delia’s Heart
(Delia #02) By; V.C. Andrews

Via GoodReads TORN BETWEEN TWO WORLDS...
Atrapada entre dos mundos
Delia Yebarra survived a treacherous desert crossing to protect her friend Ignacio from murder charges. Now, the time has come once again to leave her tiny Mexican hometown: Delia's cousin Edward convinces her to return to his world of wealth and privilege in Palm Springs, and soon Delia, a beautiful and popular senior at an exclusive private school, is living the American dream. But Delia will quickly discover that high society has a very dark underside.
A STRANGER IN BOTH OF THEM...
Extranjera en cualquiera de los dos
Delia's malicious cousin Sophia is sparking horrific rumors with Delia at their center. Racing to do damage control, Delia's mortified aunt Isabela introduces her troublesome niece to the handsome son of a wealthy Mexican American politician. An attraction sparks and a whirlwind romance begins...but Delia's heart won't let her forget her humble roots -- or Ignacio. And when tragedy tears her world apart, will it be too late to save the one she cares about the most?
My 2 Cents
Wow… The emotions I was left with after reading this book was… “wow”. As I was before with the first book, I actually wanted to pick up the 3rd book instead of writing this review down. other than that, I’m learning how to speak Spanish again. Haha

Delia, under Edward care has grow her own claws. With the help of Fani, her new emm.. acquaintance (I can’t bear to call her a friend to Delia), who took notice of Delia, took her under her wing and Delia learns how to snap back at Sophia. She has her own life. Ignacio still living wild in her mind… yet going.. and going.. and going.. as she hangs out more with Adan. Fani introduced Adan to Delia, not really sure what her motives were, but it seems that Delia and Adan gain a wonderful companion for each other, of course making Delia's life a bit tolerable.

Adan likes Delia.. more than like. She enjoys being with him too, but also, she felt guilty. I was actually scream thinking, “Be with him!” But of course, true to VC Andrews style, Delia was of course, felt guilty the whole time, thinking of Ignacio. She’s very much loyal to Ignacio, I gave her that. But in the same time, she was leading (?) Adan on, yet.. falling for him. Le sigh…

Tia Isabella likes to toy with that idea, in fact, she wanted Delia to be with Edward. In a way, she did care for Delia, but in a way she knows how. In some of the pages, I think she wished Delia was her daughter, instead of her annoying Sophia. Sophia sensed it and did whatever she could do, to get rid of Delia. To make sure, Delia “break” something so she could ruin Delia.

Edward and Jesse doing their best, regardless off to a college, mothered her. Protecting her for her Tia Isabella from being cruel to her and a wall from Sophia. 

***SPOILERS!***
*** STOP READING BELOW THIS BIT***




However, when the event of their trip to Mexico, where Delia had a secret rendezvous with Ignacio, where the police finally caught him, thanks to Sophia’s doing, things seems to change. Either they can’t forgive her cause they felt use, or Edward just feel helpless… they actually stopped talking to her.
Woe… Not going to tell you how the book ends. You have to read it on your own.

Okay, I’m going to leave you with this so I can start with the next installment of this series. I hope the next will bring Delia happiness. I do wish for her that, she deserve it after a long time. Delia though, could count her blessings, because with every door closes, there’s always something another that would open and would be good to her.

 

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Comic Review: Bart Simpson’s Treehouse of Horror #1

genre } fiction | comic | horror
rating } pg 13+
date released } 1999
edition } Bongo Entertainment
acquisition } borrowed

Bart Simpson’s Treehouse of Horror #1
By Mike Allred

Rotting James Robinson (Starman) tells of Springfieldians who become ferociously feline in a flesh-tearing little foray called "Bart People." Alarming Mike Allred (Madman) turns the screws on a screaming story of botany and gluttony gone awry called "Little Shop of Homers." And, Jaundiced Jeff Smith (Bone) stirs the brew with a whiteknuckled whale's tale entitled "Call Me Homer." Three scarifying stories to whet your nocturnal appetite! But be forewarned: These grim tales may cause you to laugh yourself to DEATH

My 2 Cents
I’m a fan of the Treehouse of Horror ever since I’ve knew about it. So imagine my glee when I found this little gem lying around, I just have to read it, since it’s Halloween week afterall (yes I need to fill in that gap for #boutofbooks and busy schedule. I need to read!)

-_-“ Yes.. I actually read it with their voices in my head….

I love this book. It has that Tv Simpson’s spunk! Hence, any Simpson fan would love this one. If you need a quick dip, here’s one for ya.

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Comic Review: Teen Wolf #1; by David Tischman

genre } fiction | comic | horror | werewolves
rating } 18+
date released } September 21, 2011
edition } Image Comics
acquisition } bought

Teen Wolf #1 (of 3)
By; David Tischman (Writer); Stephen Mooney (Artist)

Scott McCall's life is a living nightmare. Sure, he's co-captain of the Beacon Hills High Lacrosse Team and he's got a hot new girlfriend named Allison who adores him - but Scott was bitten by a werewolf. And every time he gets excited, the claws come out. And the hair. And the fangs. Which might be okay, except Allison's father leads a specially trained group of Hunters who want him dead. Scott's managed to keep his secret safe, but what happens when he can't reverse the process? In this original comic book story based on MTV's new hit series, Scott's stuck - and nothing can change him back. Will he stay a Werewolf forever? The horror begins here.

My 2 Cents
If you like the TV series, this would be a great addition. MTV production. Scott is as juvenile Wolf as he can be, Derek is still a hottie! I can’t wait until #2 comes out so, I could read how the story progress.

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Comic Review: Beyond the Fringe #01; Joshua Jackson

genre } fiction | comic | action
rating } 18+
date released } September 21, 2011
edition } DC Comics
acquisition } bought

Beyond the Fringe #1
Chapter 1: Peter and the Machine
By: Joshua Jackson (Writer); Jorge Jimenez (Artist)

Are you as excited and surprised as I am? Joshua Jackson wrote this! ♥ Basically, the scenario is what’s going on between season 3 and 4. The first couple pages were familiar scenes from the TV series itself. Don’t let that bother you, after that, the whole thing when “wow”.

Colorful illustrations, love the storyline. I got hook hard and fast. It is a bi-weekly publication for .99 cents. Cheap ehh~ Either way.. I can’t wait to get #02 issue!

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Half-Minute Horror; By Susan Rich; Various

genre } fiction | horror | short stories | children
rating } pg 13
date released } September 1st 2009
edition } HarperCollins, 129 pg
ISBN }
  0061833797

| 9780061833793
acquisition } bought
available @ Book Depository 


Half-Minute Horror
by Susan Rich (Editor), Neil Gaiman, Lesley Livingston, R.L. Stine, Margaret Atwood, Holly Black, James Patterson, Adele Griffin, etc

Summary Via Goodreads
How scared can you get in only 30 seconds? Dare to find out with Half-Minute Horrors, a collection of deliciously terrifying short short tales and creepy illustrations by an exceptional selection of writers and illustrators, including bestselling talents Lemony Snicket, James Patterson, Neil Gaiman, R.L.Stine, Faye Kellerman, Holly Black, Melissa Marr, Margaret Atwood, Jon Scieszka, Brett Helquist, and many more. With royalties benefiting First Book, a not-for-profit organization that brings books to children in need, this is an anthology worth devouring. So grab a flashlight, set the timer, and get ready for instant chills!

My 2 Cents

The title isn’t kidding you. It is actually packed with half minute fictions for you to read and all of them are awesome-ly (Yes it’s that word again, don’t just just miss me?) dark. I love it. Every single page of it. The chicken one was my favorite, cause it’s just evil! *snickers* It comes with what's under your bed, what's hiding in the closet, to yes... chicken vs egg theory. It's quite cute and good for a quick read here and there.

I forgot who actually told me about this book in the middle of extremely busy, bookless weeks (not actually that bookless, since I actually have books coming my way keeping it’s schedule) but whoever it was, thank you! I honestly enjoy reading this one and I’m putting this up in one with the great books to read for reluctant readers, or if you were trying to get a reading fix in your hectic schedule.

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Comic: Suicide Girls Vol. 1; by Steve Niles

genre } fiction | comic | action
rating } 18+ sx
date released } October 11th 2011
edition } IDW Publishing, 120 pg
ISBN }

  1613770189

| 9781613770184
acquisition } Given
available @ Book Depository

Suicide Girls, Vol. 1
by Steve Niles, Missy Suicide, Brea Grant, Zane Grant, Cameron Stewart

Summary Via Goodreads
Sexy, subversive, and seriously bad ass, the SuicideGirls bring their unique brand to comics! Caught in a near-future defined by its rigid conformity and persecution of women, the SuicideGirls are the last hope for freedom. Can they take down the techno-religious cult, Way*of*Life, or will they die trying?

My 2 Cents
Wow. Girls Power! Girls Rules! Sexy! Honestly. I can’t go past that, and that’s all you have from me now. =^_^=

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8 Words Comic Review: Clive Barker’s Hellraiser

Clive Barker’s Hellraiser
#4 2011
Boom Studios
18+

My 8 Words
Why didn’t I know about this alot sooner?

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Comic: American Vampire

American Vampire
Vertigo (2011)
PG 13+
Horror | Vampire

It's Las Vegas circa 1935, and Skinner Sweet and our gal Pearl are about to learn the hard way that the bloodsuckers in Hollywood were nothing compared to what awaits them in Sin City.

In just a few short years, young police chief Cash McCogan has watched his native city of Las Vegas go from cow-town to wild, glittering boomtown. And when the bodies of prominent businessmen start showing up drained of blood, Chief McCogan finds himself facing a threat much darker and deadlier than anything he could have imagined . . . and the only sure bet in town is that Skinner and Pearl are right in the thick of it.

My 2 Cents
Another Vampire genre for me. I needed something fast to read, in the midst of my busy schedule these days, I I ended up picking up this one for a try. Honestly speaking, this is the 18th volume in the series, breaking the rules of reading in order rules for me. Got to live it wild sometimes. *winks* It gives me a good impression. Now I do wish I should have read it from the beginning instead of jumping in somewhere in the middle. But yeah. Good one. I am sure to pick up another if there’s more.

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Magazine: Solusi Isu 34: Isu Khas Ramadan & Syawal 2011

As you know, I have never ever review a magazine issue. Why? obviously, I can’t cover the the whole thing in one post. Plus the regularity is another factor. So why am I featuring this magazine? Well I did promise on giving a feature on Ramadan and I have yet to produce any. *gasps* I had a really hectic, busy and stuffy past 3 weeks. Not to forget, my isp decided to have a PMS, that I staying online was a pain in the ass.

Anyhoo….This magazine is Malaysia-based, and I think it’s  a monthly publication.. I’m not sure. One of the teachers at work actually donate this magazine to the school library I work at, hence I don’t really get how frequent this one put out. What drawn me to this edition is thea article called ‘A-Z Tentang Puasa’. It provided a page full of what I called a cliff notes on:

♠ Definition
♠ Types of fasting (Wajib, Sunat, Haram, Makruh)
♠ Syarat Wajib
♠ Syarat Sah Puasa
♠ Rukun Puasa
♠ Sunat Puasa
♠ Perkara yang membatalkan Puasa
♠ Mereka yang diizinkan Berbuka

There are other interesting articles, and the Ramadan time table, provided at the end. Check it out =^_^=

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100 Questions & Answers About Allergies; by Jonathan Corren

genre } non-fiction | health & services | allergies
rating } G
date released } May 5th 2010
edition } Jones and Bartlett Publishers, Inc, 144 pg
ISBN }

  0763776092

| 9780763776091
acquisition } bought via Kindle
available @ Book Depository

100 Questions & Answers About Allergies

by Jonathan Corren

Summary via GoodReads

Empower Yourself!

If You Are Among The 58 Percent Of Americans Who Suffer From Allergies, Or Have A Friend Or Relative Who Does, This Book Offers Help. 100 Questions & Answers About Allergies Gives You Authoritative, Practical Answers To The Most Common Questions Asked By Patients And Family Members About These Common Illnesses. This Easy-To-Read Book Is A Comprehensive Guide To Understanding Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, Over-The-Counter Therapy, Sources Of Support, And Much More. Including Actual Patient Commentary, This Text Is An Invaluable Resource For Anyone Coping With The Physical And Emotional Turmoil Caused By Allergies.

My 2 Cents
Personally, I say, everyone, or at maybe at least every public library should have a copy of this book available for hands on. Bought this book on impulse and yes it is one heck of a very handy book to have around. It does answer alot of allergy related questions one would like to ask, for example, how it could happen or how we can avoid it, or what triggers it and so on. Nevertheless it is an interesting informative read. If you have allergies.. or know somebody who have them, should read this book as well.

Examples of questions available in the book:
♠ What is an allergy blood test?
♠ Which herbal products will help my nasal allergies?
♠ Will I be able to breast-feed my child while I am taking allergy medications?
♠ What is sinusitis, and how it related to allergies?
♠ What is Lactose intolerance?
♠ Can food allergies cause heartburn?

etc….

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A Stolen Life: A Memoir; by Jaycee Lee Dugard

genre } non-fiction | memoir | true crime
rating } 18 +
date released } July 12th 2011
edition } Simon & Schuster Adult Publishing Group, 288 pg
ISBN }

  1451629184

| 9781451629187
acquisition } bought via Kindle
available @ Book Depository

A Stolen Life: A Memoir

by Jaycee Lee Dugard

Summary via Goodreads:
In the summer of 1991 I was a normal kid. I did normal things. I had friends and a mother who loved me. I was just like you. Until the day my life was stolen.
For eighteen years I was a prisoner. I was an object for someone to use and abuse.
For eighteen years I was not allowed to speak my own name. I became a mother and was forced to be a sister. For eighteen years I survived an impossible situation.
On August 26, 2009, I took my name back. My name is Jaycee Lee Dugard. I don’t think of myself as a victim. I survived.
A Stolen Life is my story—in my own words, in my own way, exactly as I remember it.

My 2 Cents
Wow… I like to repeat that biographies aren’t my thing, but I tell you a secret, I actually had my eye on this book even days before it came out. I don’t know, for some reason, I had to read it. I think the summary caught me by the scruff of my neck and I just had to read it, no matter what. So on the day of it’s release, I’ve decided that I need to get my paws on it ASAP.

Page after page, I read it as soon as it reach me. I can’t possible put it down. At times I was even frustrated seeing how the Stockholm Syndrome took over her and how bad it is for her. I see her not giving up, but actually giving up, just to survived. for an eleven year old when she was taken, she managed to get away, even though it took her a very long time for it. She make the best of what she could, even making the place of her captivity a “personal space”, like her little heaven in hell. 

I would have review this earlier, but I was caught up with things around here. But yeah… if you’re into survival stuff, I suggest this is one book you can pick up and read. the price was a bit pricey for an e-book, but I guess it probably goes into The JAYC Foundation she has set up for victims like her.

Pine cones has a different meaning to me now.

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Book Review: Clean; by Amy Reed

genre } fiction | society & social issues | health | drugs & addiction | Disability
rating } pg 18+
date released } July 19, 2011
publisher } Simon Pulse
ISBN } 9781442413443 (hb) | 1442413441
acquisition } advanced copy from publisher
available @ book despository

Clean
by; Amy Reed

Summary from Goodreads
Olivia, Kelly, Christopher, Jason, and Eva have one thing in common: They’re addicts. Addicts who have hit rock bottom and been stuck together in rehab to face their problems, face sobriety, and face themselves. None of them wants to be there. None of them wants to confront the truths about their pasts. But they’ll all have to deal with themselves and one another if they want to learn how to live. Because when you get that high, there’s nowhere to go but down, down, down.

My 2 Cents
The first thing that grab me to read this book, is that cover. The model look so alone, and deep in thought. Then, there’s the four walls closing in. tight and small. Reminds me of that Babyface’s song, “Nobody knows it but me”. But to the book! Have you ever read a book, that consumes your attention? The only reason why it took me this long to read, is due to my hectic schedule, but I’d made sure to read this every single night so I know what’s going on next in that book.

Now back to the book. I don’t have to tell you the summary of this book, since I’ve included it up there as a summary. What I like to share is how every character suck you into their world. Most chapters of this book puts us in their characters mind, circulating from one character to another, where they open up their past, their feelings, their hopes, dreams, fears, vulnerabilities, etc, all poured out for us to see. Putting the reader into the spot of understanding, instead of judging. I Actually wanted to give Christopher and Jason a hug, not to forget I like to shove spoon feed Olivia.

I do wish and hope that book will actually get all the readers it could have. It would bring the readers into a perspectives. I know talking about addicts is a taboo, but reading this, would not let you break into that curiosity to try and “experiment” but it would show you the pain, it causes, the sacrifice, and the difficulties to get back up to their feet after they’ve became an addict.

Overall, This book has a full 5 ♠s from me. Thanks for the book Amy Reeds =^_^=

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Book Review: Casketball Capers by; Peter Bentley

genre } humor | children | pre-teens
rating } 9 - 12 yo +
date released } July 01, 2011
publisher } Albert Whitman & Company
ISBN } 9780807584620 (hb) | 9780807584637
acquisition } advanced copy from publisher
available @ book despository

Casketball Capers (Vampire School 01)
by; Peter Bentley , Chris Harrison

Summary from Goodreads
Lee and his best friends Billy and Bella are on the St. Orlok's casketball team. They're all getting ready for the big game against the Chaney Street Werewolves. But when the other team arrives, it seems that some of them aren't planning on playing fair. Lee needs a plan - fast! Will he manage to foil the cheats before the whistle?


My 2 Cents
”A biting book”

I got this as my first advance copy, from Albert  Whitman & Company. Honestly, this is the first book I read from this publisher and they haven’t disappoint me a bit with this one. As you see, this the first book from a new series called the Vampire School, where they teach young vampires on how to behave like a proper vampire. It’s a cute book, quick and an easy read for either the young teens or anybody who likes a quick read between books or need to read between a hectic schedule. It is lavish with doodle likes of the scenes of the books within the pages of the book which makes you giggle at the cuteness of it.

Kids and Pre-teens would enjoy this one. Reluctant readers would be drawn to the thin book with a quick flip of the pages, not to forget the illustration are funny. Yes… it’s a keeper a library collection.

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Book Review: Addie on the Inside; James Howe

genre } family | issues | self-esteem | relationship 
rating } 13+
date released } July 26th 2011
edition } Atheneum Books (224 p.)
ISBN } 9781416913849 | 141691384X
acquisition } ARE
available @ Book Depository

Addie on the Inside
By; James Howe
 
Summary on Goodreads

The Gang of Five is back in this third story from Paintbrush Falls. Addie Carle, the only girl in the group of friends is outspoken, opinionated, and sometimes…just a bit obnoxious.

But as seventh grade progresses, Addie’s not so sure anymore about who she is. It seems her tough exterior is just a little too tough and that doesn’t help her deal with the turmoil she feels on the inside as she faces the pains of growing up.

Told in elegant, accessible verse, ADDIE ON THE INSIDE gives readers a look at a strong, smart, and sensitive girl struggling with the box society wants to put her in. Addie confronts experiences many readers will relate to: the loss of a beloved pet, first heartbreak, teasing…but also, friendship, love, and a growing confidence in one’s self.

You Are Who They Say You Are

They say in the seventh grade

you are who they say you are,

but how can that be true?

How can I be a /Godzilla-girl /lezzie loser /know-it-all/

big-mouth /beanpole /string bean/ freaky tall/

fall-down /spaz attack /brainiac /maniac/

hopeless nerd /*bad word*/brown-nosing /teacher’s pet/

showing off /just to get

attention –

oh,

and did I mention:

flat-chested…

How can I be all that?

It’s too many things to be.

How can I be all that and

still be true to the real me
while everyone is saying:
This
is
who
you
are.

My 2 Cents
Honestly said, as much as I like reading James Howe stuff, this book, is not for me. This book is told in verses and this would be handy to people who likes poetry over the fiction within the pages. To me, it’s kind of annoying because as much as I love Homer, this is not for me.

Anyway. This book talks about bullies and relationship during the early ages of teenagers of the main character. It does capture the mindset of teens around that age. Written like Adele is pouring her heart and soul into blog or diary (sort of), with many poetry in between. I won’t judge this book, because it is not for me, but I guess, I just put this book out there in public, so people knows this book actually exists for an option read.

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Book Review: The Yellow Wallpaper; Charlotte Perkins Gilman

genre } classics | short stories | literature
rating } 18 yr +
date released } 1997
edition } Dover Publications; Unabridged edition (70 p.)
ISBN } 0486298574 | 978-0486298573
acquisition } Free for Kindle download
available @ Book Depository | Amazon.com

The Yellow Wallpaper
by; Charlotte Perkins Gilman

Summary;
The unnamed narrator and her doctor husband, John, live in "a colonial mansion, a hereditary estate..." She believes the house is haunted. "John laughs at me, of course, but one expects that." She believes she is ill but her husband, and her brother, also a physician, say it is only "temporary nervous depression - a slight hysterical tendency..." They insist on "phosphates or phosphites - whichever it is - and tonics" and absolutely forbid work until she is well again. She believes "Personally...that congenial work, with excitement and change, would do me good. Personally, I disagree with their ideas. But what is one to do? I did write for a while in spite of them; but it does exhaust me a good deal - having to be so sly about it, or else meet with heavy opposition." She is confined to rest in a room she hates with wallpaper she finds hideously ugly: "The color is repellent, almost revolting: a smoldering unclean yellow... dull yet lurid orange in some places, a sickly sulphur tint in others." It is in this room that she writes her secret journal that is this story. She struggles to believe in her husband and brother's "kindness" and "care" while, with terrifying starkness, she narrates her journey into madness.

My 2 Cents
Wow.. what an intense book. I ended this book with the feeling of floored, awe, amazed, confuse and some what empowered. yes it’s an insight monologue literature of a “nervous condition” in her head, and obviously throughout the story she is descending into madness. I was also kind off creep out witnessing her describing her madness how she saw things in a different light. Seeing things the rest can’t see. She is preoccupied by that yellow wallpaper in her bedroom where her husband confines her through out her “sickness”. Her mind went deeper and deeper, pulling you into the horror of her mind. The end was confusing. It can be interpreted one way or another. I get the impression, she either killed off her husband or she killed herself.

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Book Review: Dork Diaries; Rachel R. Russell

genre } humor | teens |
rating } 12 yo +
date released } February 04, 2010
edition } Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
ISBN } 1847387411 | 9781847387417
acquisition } bought @ Book Lane Brunei
available @ Book Depository

Dork Diaries (Dork Diaries #1)
by; Rachel R. Russell

Summary From GoodReads
Nikki Maxwell is not popular, in fact Nikki Maxwell is the opposite of popular; she's a total dork! But Nikki's hoping that by moving to a new school she might just stand a chance of making some friends and leaving her old lame-ways in the past. But life is never that simple! Follow Nikki's life through sketches, doodles and diary entries as she starts her new school, battles with her mum for an iPhone and meets her arch-nemisis, the school's queen bee, Mackenzie. Enter Nikki's world through her sketches, doodles and diary entries.

My 2 cents
The only reason why I pick this book up was that, I have enjoyed reading the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. It’s a cute comic slash novel on for the pre and early teenagers who have trouble um.. resist reading…(???) um.. let’s rephrase that to reluctant readers. It is also excellent for a “between reads” for people like me who needs something light, funny and quick before picking up another “serious” fiction book. Hmm.. that just doesn’t pop up right loud out does it.

Ok.. ok.. fun fact is, I ‘ve avoided this book like a plague, before I actually picked it up just because it is “Pink” cover. Don’t give me that look. I ain’t a pink girl :P

Regressing to my book review… it is an absolutely cute book of a typical young teenage girl. Move to a new school (on scholarship – because her dad made a deal with the school board just because he exterminate the bugs for them), have a locker next to most popular girl in school who happens to be extremely superficial. Plus she has this crush with to her opinion, is the most I honestly adore the character Nikki Maxwell. It just tickle me when she keeps saying something and ended up with, she didn’t say it out loud, just in he head. She has aspiration to be one of the cute, cool and popular (CCP) and she has her own way to get to that.

This book is written as if it’s in a lined diary, most pages there’s always a Manga doodle of what’s going on in her head (her current respond to a situation or what, how to respond or see how the situation is). It’s a good laugh, refreshing and of course, it has finally popped up in my favorite list.

Librarian-wise
I know how some of us feel about series in our work place collection. This would be up to you. Pre-teens and reluctant readers would love to read this one. Catchy looking cover (unless your patrons are like me, not that keen with pink …o_o )

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Book Review: Go The Fuck To Sleep; Adam Mansbach

genre } entertainment | humor
rating } pg 18+
date released } June 21, 2011

edition } Akashic Books (32 p.)
ISBN } 1617750255 | 978-1617750250
acquisition } lend from
available @ Book Depository | Amazon.com

 

Summary:
Go the Fuck to Sleep is a bedtime book for parents who live in the real world, where a few snoozing kitties and cutesy rhymes don't always send a toddler sailing blissfully off to dreamland. Profane, affectionate, and radically honest, California Book Award-winning author Adam Mansbach's verses perfectly capture the familiar--and unspoken--tribulations of putting your little angel down for the night. In the process, they open up a conversation about parenting, granting us permission to admit our frustrations, and laugh at their absurdity.

With illustrations by Ricardo Cortes, Go the Fuck to Sleep is beautiful, subversive, and pants-wettingly funny--a book for parents new, old, and expectant. You probably should not read it to your children.

My 2 Cents
My first reaction was err.. language? But what the heck, let’s pick it up and see what it has for me. My reaction? I was laughing at every page. Let’s put it up front. This is NOT a bedtime story! But in another hand, it’s probably portraying what some really exhausted but dedicated parents are thinking while reading a bedtime story for their kids.

The cover is however is beautiful and adoring, (ignore the French word, I have to say). The pages are also illustrated with wonderful illustration, perfect for a bedtime story. I Guess I can only say one thing about this book, is that.. it’s a comic relief.

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