tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14273925836418986132024-02-07T23:28:24.331-05:00Heaven is a sort of library...<i>where it is cozy and we talk about books, libraries, reading, and art</i>Marissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.comBlogger98125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-54557830707233366962018-06-18T22:00:00.000-04:002018-06-19T22:39:26.756-04:00And the wind blows us along our way.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUIoL-e-DdxD4ZbaPMoEtTujIOdDGG0l5ghdnTJm7_aBlxI6QtFRJTuqrcbds-YEPr7oAuu9h0rI8FzzETHQzv_Bm9yi17KxjKUZZNracvJfB2EA5GfIcY3WU3tBdEfTVO-4f5R7nJlyJi/s1600/wind.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUIoL-e-DdxD4ZbaPMoEtTujIOdDGG0l5ghdnTJm7_aBlxI6QtFRJTuqrcbds-YEPr7oAuu9h0rI8FzzETHQzv_Bm9yi17KxjKUZZNracvJfB2EA5GfIcY3WU3tBdEfTVO-4f5R7nJlyJi/s200/wind.gif" width="200" /></a>It is no surprise that I've abandoned this blog for so long. I like to think that it's what I do. If I posted on a regular basis, then the element of discovery would be lost...right? I logged back in today after reading the beautiful blog of a coworker and her husband-- you can find it at <a href="https://dreamofthewoods.com/category/blog/">Dream of the Woods Productions</a>. (Make sure to check out the whole site, not just the blog.) Anyway, it really spoke to me and made me want to check up on my little abandoned lot on the internet.<br />
So many changes in three years. I realize that I can't catch up, and that whatever guilt I feel for not checking in on this blog and the other one I have with my sister is silly. The wind really does blow us along our way, sometimes on course and sometimes off. I feel that I'm on course now, but find myself not wanting to document it here as much as I once did. I am living my life, trying to go where the wind takes me and not overthink everything. That is easier said than done. I feel the need to know what will happen next and feel some sort of assurance. Nothing is assured.<br />
I just had my birthday and it was very relaxing and, although there is one sneaky grey hair at the front of my hairline that is bugging me, I'm mostly okay with being thirty-five. I still have hopes and goals-- I always say this, but I <i>really </i>would like to get back to making things. However, I'm proud of what I've achieved insofar as I have a master's degree and (new!) job in my field, I am close with my family and my dog, and I'm on my way to a new place to live with a stopover with my folks in between. I have supportive friends and I'm just kind of content, which is a big deal for me since that feeling is rare. I guess the wind knows where we should go, and I'm going. To quote <i>Friends, </i>"I'm breezy!"<br />
This feeling may be temporary, but right now, I'll take it.<br />
<br />
Ex libris,<br />
<br />
Marissa<br />
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Marissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-29430352042316843012015-06-12T13:10:00.001-04:002015-06-12T13:10:29.120-04:00Reclaiming spinsterhood<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm turning thirty-two in less than a week. I am single, I live with my dog, and I work full-time. When I was growing up, I didn't envision being unmarried at thirty-two. I figured I'd be married and have children, and I'd probably stay home with them (a different full-time job). I've reached a level of okay-ness with where I am-- I'm not actively scrambling to find a husband. I honestly don't feel the tick of my biological clock. But does this make me a SPINSTER?<br />
<br />
Kate Bolick's <i><a href="https://www.librarything.com/work/15511130">Spinster: Making a Life of One's Own</a> </i>tackles the idea of spinsterhood through her personal reflections on a handful of literary women. She explores the history of spinsters, what it means to be one, and her own feelings toward her life. In short, I loved it. I identified with it. And hell yeah, I'm a spinster.<br />
<br />
I'm not the only one-- over 100 million American women are unmarried. Bolick cites definitions of the term spinster, most of which refer to being older than the usual age for marriage, whatever that is. I've read that Americans are getting married at older ages now, so what is the "usual" age now? In the grand scheme of things, does it matter? And why should there be a negative term for women who are unmarried-- "spinster"-- when unmarried men are considered "bachelors," a positive term for a man who cannot be "tamed?"<br />
<br />
The extraordinary women Bolick writes about: Neith Boyce, Maeve Brennan, Charlotte Perkins Gilman, Edna St. Vincent Millay, and Edith Wharton, all were unconventional for their time periods and tried to carve out their own identities. In so doing, they inspired Bolick to live authentically, although not without a few bumps along the way.<br />
<br />
It was refreshing to find myself in these pages and know that I'm in good company. Bolick states, "What bothered me was the assumption that because I was a woman in her early thirties, I must be 'desperate' for marriage." You know what I'm desperate for? Being near my friends and family, spending time doing what I love (art and reading), and working at a good job that I like (librarian). I have all those things. If I met someone, that would be awesome, but right now, I like being responsible only to myself and my pup. I am desperate not to worry what other people think of me, which is a work in progress, but it was helped by this book.<br />
<br />
I'll end with a quote from Neith Boyce that Bolick includes on page 82:<br />
"I never shall be an old maid, because I have elected to be a Girl Bachelor. And as to regretting this choice, you know the saying of the philosopher, 'Whether you marry or not, you will regret it.'"<br />
<br />
My take away from this book is to be true to yourself, and don't feel weird about the path you've chosen. It's your path, after all.<br />
<br />
Ex libris,<br />
<br />
MarissaMarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-51335098853151418962015-05-08T13:55:00.000-04:002015-05-08T13:55:58.620-04:00As Red As Blood<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Since I love Scandinavian mysteries, I thought I would really like Salla Simukka's <a href="http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/884918157"><i>As Red As Blood.</i></a> I thought, woo! Scandinavian mystery for teens! Unfortunately, it didn't live up to my expectations. It read more like a dry adult mystery than something that would appeal to teens. The main character, Lumikki, is a high school student who lives on her own. It is clear that she is very independent. She finds bloodstained euros in the school darkroom and is pulled into a mystery of who, what, and why...but it's also a mystery of who cares? Despite her independence, Lumikki gets drawn in by a group of kids who she finds inferior. She decides to help them, but for what reason? I wanted to finish (Finnish, lol) the story to see what happened, but I was disappointed. There is a sequel coming out where we learn more about Lumikki, I'm assuming. She is the real mystery. Maybe the tension and intrigue that I associate with Scandinavian noir was lost in the translation from Finnish to English. Whatever the reason, while I wanted to like this book, I was bored.<br />
<br />
Speaking of Scandinavia, I am GOING TO ICELAND in October! I'm so very excited!!! I've wanted to go since reading <a href="http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/1123269"><i>Grettir's Saga</i></a> in Medieval Literature, and starting off the winding path of Scandinavian noir with Henning Mankell's <a href="http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/39985545"><i>Sidetracked</i></a> (which takes place in Sweden) in Global Detective Fiction in college. Hurrah!<br />
<br />
Since <i>As Red As Blood </i>wasn't what I expected, here's a GREAT book that I really enjoyed: <i><a href="http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/870248734">I'll Give You the Sun</a> </i>by Jandy Nelson. And since I'm not reviewing it here, check out <a href="http://verityreviews.weebly.com/home/ill-give-you-the-sun">this review</a> written by one of my teen library patrons.<br />
<br />
Ex libris,<br />
<br />
MarissaMarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-20160549484237540912014-07-08T08:29:00.000-04:002014-07-08T08:29:12.395-04:00Where gaming meets the real world.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I just finished Steve Brezenoff's <a href="https://www.librarything.com/work/14469939" style="font-style: italic;">Guy in Real Life</a> this weekend. I picked it up because I purchased it for the library, it got good reviews, and I love the cover. I can say I really liked the book. Not the best, but an enjoyable read.<br />
Lesh Tungsten is trying to figure out where he fits in. After an evening of drinking and a concert, he collides with Svetlana Allegheny as she rides by on her bike. Lesh is grounded for his antics (he's a sophomore in high school) and his best friend, Greg, convinces him to try the MMORPG while he's incarcerated in his bedroom.<br />
In the game, Lesh can be whoever he wants. He chooses an orc character to start, but then creates another, a beautiful elf priestess named Svvetlana. As he gets closer with the real Svetlana, lines blur between fantasy and reality. Svetlana, for her part, is creative and quirky, and also a Dungeon Master, responsible for planning elaborate campaigns for the high school's gaming club. Lesh and Svetlana are both separated from reality, but come together in real life. But what happens if Svetlana finds out about Lesh's alter ego online?<br />
The book is told in alternating chapters so the reader can see both sides of the story. It's not clear if Lesh is confused about his gender or sexuality-- as I read it, he's not, he just wants to have a different persona online. I love Svetlana's character. She is always embroidering or drawing, avoiding awkward family outings and spending time with her friends in the gaming club. It is an engaging, realistic YA story.<br />
<br />
Ex libris,<br />
<br />
MarissaMarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-90474559835702062722014-01-03T21:21:00.001-05:002014-01-03T21:21:50.449-05:00New year!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy 2014! Once again, I disappeared for awhile. Nothing bad happening, just very busy at work. I'm running programs, reading for book groups, and rearranging collections. I am a busy bee.<br />
I try not to make resolutions because I usually don't fulfill them and then feel bad. That being said, I would like to read more books and watch less TV this year. There are so many good reads and I feel like I could do better with reader's advisory if I read more (obviously).<br />
Every year I write down in a notebook the books I read. I don't count books I leaf through when they arrive in shipments, and I don't count books I read at story time. If I did, my total would be more robust, but there you are. In 2013, I read <b>fifty </b>books. That is thirty-three fewer than 2012. My commute is much shorter now, so I don't get through as many audiobooks as I did before. I was briefly on a Nutmeg Award Committee, so I plowed through the first selection of books, but I had to resign when I moved to Massachusetts. Not making excuses, just reflecting on my year of reading.<br />
So what were my favorite books I read in 2013? Here is a list to add to your personal reading list:<br />
<br />
1. <a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/10966683">Ready Player One</a> by Ernest Cline<br />
2. <a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/12661675">Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore</a> by Robin Sloan<br />
3. <a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/12067001">Monkey Mind: A Memoir of Anxiety</a> by Daniel Smith<br />
4. <a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/13135918">The 5th Wave</a> by Rick Yancey<br />
5. <a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/12715837">Homeland</a> by Cory Doctorow<br />
6. <a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/7250107">If I Stay</a> by Gayle Foreman<br />
7. <a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/12658234">The Art Forger</a> by B. A. Shapiro<br />
8. <a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/12444001">That's Not A Feeling</a> by Dan Josefson<br />
9. <a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/13856">The Great Influenza</a> by John M. Barry<br />
10. <a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/5794">Good Omens</a> by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett<br />
11. <a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/11607247">The Fire Witness</a> by Lars Kepler<br />
12. <a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/776166">Special Topics in Calamity Physics</a> by Marisha Pessl (in progress)<br />
<br />
Have a fabulous new year! Happy reading!<br />
<br />
Ex libris,<br />
<br />
MarissaMarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-50985893131446207122013-08-25T12:45:00.000-04:002013-08-25T12:45:41.372-04:00Suspension of disbelief<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I hadn't read any of <a href="http://djmachalebooks.com/">D.J. MacHale's</a> books until his latest, <i>Sylo.</i> MacHale is probably best known for the <i>Pendragon </i>series, of which there are about ten, plus a set of prequels. He takes up a lot of library real estate. <i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/13457101">Sylo</a> </i>is first in a series too, and having purchased it for the library, I decided to give it a try.<br />
<br />
<i>Sylo, </i>published by an imprint of <a href="http://www.us.penguingroup.com/">Penguin Books</a>, is a sci-fi thriller set on an island in Maine. Tucker Pierce is an average kid, having moved to the island from Connecticut with his parents. After witnessing the death of a classmate and seeing a strange explosion in the sky, Tucker and his friend Quinn are disconcerted that their safe haven of Pemberwick Island is no longer so safe. When a strange military outfit named SYLO invades the island and quarantines the place, effectively cutting off Pemberwick from the outside world, Tucker must accept that nothing is as it seems.<br />
<br />
Running parallel to the military occupation plot line is that of a mysterious substance called the Ruby, which gives anyone who uses it superhuman speed and strength. It is unclear if this is why the island is quarantined, but a shady character named Mr. Feit gives it to residents prior to the military occupation.<br />
<br />
Tucker, Quinn, and another classmate Tori are quickly in the crosshairs of SYLO's commander, Granger. They must try to escape the island and expose SYLO since they believe the quarantine is bogus and there is something fishy going on.<br />
<br />
I had mixed feelings about this book. On one hand I liked it a lot-- I spent most of last night turning pages to see what would happen. It has gripping moments. On the other hand, it was farfetched and just ok. The drug pusher, Mr. Feit, is a poorly created character and is clearly a warning "Don't do drugs, kids!" The escape scenes are decent, as is the boating terminology, but it still seems contrived. Tucker's sort-of-infatuation with Tori is a convenient plot device, but there is no meat. Most of the characters are stock-- the brainy friend, the pretty tourist girl, the wealthy jock, the cold soldier. I came across two usage errors <i>(taught </i>instead of <i>taut </i>and <i>mantle </i>instead of <i>mantel) </i>which pulled me out of the story.<br />
<br />
All that being said, I would skim the next two series installments to see what happens. Despite its flaws, I am curious as to what happens next. I classify this book as middle grade, so grades 5 and up. Not fabulous, certainly not flawless, but definitely intriguing.<br />
<br />
Ex libris,<br />
<br />
MarissaMarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-12643052099289940542013-08-18T10:59:00.000-04:002013-08-18T10:59:39.673-04:00So realistic, I cried while stuck in traffic.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So here is some old news: <i><a href="http://ifistay.com/ifistay.php">If I Stay</a> </i>by Gayle Forman is a stunner. This book was originally released in 2009 by Dutton Children's, an imprint of <a href="http://www.us.penguingroup.com/">Penguin</a>. I listened to the audio version and finished it while stuck in bridge traffic headed to Cape Cod. I was such a soupy face afterwards, tears dribbling all over. I glanced around and everyone was in their cars, probably half irritated by the traffic and half "YAY CAPE COD!" And I looked like I had just had a very sad experience. Well, I did.<br />
<br />
SPOILER ALERT. You find out the gist of the story very early on, but if you want to be surprised, don't read further. Although I imagine this book has already been widely read, I just didn't get around to it until now.<br />
<br />
Mia is a promising cello player, on the cusp of getting into Julliard. Her punk-rock-turned-teacher-dad, tough-but-sweet mom, and ebullient little brother are all excited at the idea of a rare snow day and after breakfast, they go for a drive.<br />
<br />
They get in a horrific accident. Mia has an out-of-body experience and sees her parents, dead and broken, on the pavement. (There is a reference to Mia seeing "what looked like cauliflower" on the pavement and realizing it is parts of her father's brain. Really.) It is not immediately clear what happened to Mia's brother. Mia realizes she's out of her body and goes with herself to the hospital.<br />
<br />
Interspersed in the story are bits of Mia looking back on her life. For example, her friend Kim comes to visit her in the hospital and we get to learn how they became friends. However, a huge focus of Mia's remembrances are that of her musician boyfriend, Adam. Their whole story is beautiful but not saccharine.<br />
<br />
The point of the story is that Mia must decide if she will stay and live out a very different life, or if she will die. It is poignant and sad and she has to weigh some tough choices...Adam and her friends and extended family versus going gently into that good night.<br />
<br />
I like this story because it is realistic and mostly plausible, and it shows a family that is together, a strong network of family members and friends, and characters you can root for. I am looking forward to listening to the sequel and reading more of Forman's work. <i>If I Stay </i>is also going to be made into a <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1355630/">movie</a>.<br />
<br />
Highly recommended, but have some tissues nearby, even in the car.<br />
<br />
Ex libris,<br />
<br />
MarissaMarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-77826350747702218062013-07-31T21:47:00.001-04:002013-07-31T21:47:36.625-04:00Back to the bindery.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Before I left my job in Connecticut, I promised a colleague I'd make a guestbook for her daughter's wedding. Behold said book. It's been quite awhile since I pulled out my bookbinding stuff, but it felt really good to get back to the bindery. Huzzah! You like? I'm pretty pleased with how it came out, although it was a bit tricky with the humidity we were enduring. Anyway, now that I have all my tools out, I might as well keep going, right?<br />
<br />
Ex libris,<br />
<br />
MarissaMarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-62755428165430965832013-06-22T22:22:00.000-04:002013-06-22T22:22:26.998-04:00Infiltrated.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I received a galley for Rick Yancey's <i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/13135918">The 5th Wave</a> </i>from my library's book supplier. I was skeptical because I'm kind of tired of the "other" in YA books-- vampires, werewolves, and in this case, aliens. I just want to read about some actual humans, you know? However, I was pretty gripped by this book from the start because of the plausibility of the writing. If we were to be set upon by aliens, I think this is how it would go down. Also, Yancey assumes a very high level of alien intelligence, which I think is unique. I will try not to reveal any spoilers, so read on...<br />
There have been four "waves" since the Others arrived-- loss of electricity, destruction of the coastal areas, plague, and the few remaining humans being hunted. Still alive in the fifth wave, Cassie Sullivan, a sixteen-year-old girl, carries an M-16 and shoots at anything. After being wounded by a "Silencer"-- basically an alien sniper-- she's discovered by dreamboat Evan and wakes up in his family's farmhouse. He says he'll help her find her young brother at the military base she assumes he's been taken to.<br />
In a dual narrative, we learn what is going on at the military base through Ben, a former classmate of Cassie's. He's ended up at the base, being trained to take out the rest of the alien force. Descriptions of training and warfare are grim in this book since the "recruits" are about age 5 and up. It isn't clear how these kids will take out the aliens, but they're the last best hope for humanity.<br />
Since I said I didn't want to spoil the ending, I will just say this-- I don't consider myself a sci-fi fan, but this was a gripping read. There are a lot of grey areas about who is good or bad, right or wrong. There are surprises. I bought this for the library but it immediately went out and is now on the <i>New York Times </i>bestseller list. It does require a sufficient suspension of disbelief, and I do have some qualms about some characterizations (specifically Evan, who is just too pretty), but I recommend it. Get it at your library if it's available.<br />
<br />
Ex libris,<br />
<br />
MarissaMarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-89894096087992870902013-05-07T23:38:00.000-04:002013-05-07T23:38:08.247-04:00Newness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well. I have a ton of newness going on right now. First of all, I got a new job-- a <i>librarian </i>job. I moved to a new place-- Massachusetts. I got a new apartment. I have a new bed, new couch, and other new furniture. I received new business cards today. I got trained on new computer software today. I got a new haircut a few weeks ago. I am, in short, NEW.<br />
The job is a youth services position in a public library. So far, so good-- great patrons, nice staff, all around good job. I have a lot going on right now getting ready for the summer, ordering and finishing out the fiscal year, planning a sleepover. It can be a lot all at once, but in a good way for the most part.<br />
I'm an apartment-dweller now. My building is quiet except when the CSX train goes by in the early early morning (grrrr.) Soon, Ruby will join me and we will go on glorious walks in the sunshine. I had her for about a week already and soon she will come live with me full-time. Since I am back near where I went to college, I'm reconnecting with old friends (and hopefully I will make some new ones.)<br />
So everything is really, really new. I am trying to keep up with reading galleys when I can. I had to recuse myself from the Nutmeg Committee since I am no longer in Connecticut. I feel like I'm playing perpetual catch-up, but I expect the newness wears off eventually and I will be settled.<br />
<br />
What's new with you?<br />
<br />
Ex libris,<br />
<br />
MarissaMarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-66486961940857866932013-02-09T11:41:00.000-05:002013-02-09T11:41:16.439-05:00Literally the best thing ever!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A few months ago, the teen librarian where I work sent me a link to a <a href="http://www.ted.com/talks/tavi_gevinson_a_teen_just_trying_to_figure_it_out.html">TEDx Teen Talk</a> featuring <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tavi_Gevinson">Tavi Gevinson</a>. Right now, you might be like, "Who?" but watch the TEDx video. She is, in a word, rad. She started a <a href="http://www.thestylerookie.com/">fashion blog</a> at age 12 and word spread. Now at 16 she runs an online magazine called <a href="http://rookiemag.com/"><i>Rookie</i></a> which I wish was around when I was a teenager. I want to say it's the anti-teengirl magazine, but it's just much smarter and more well-rounded than the average magazine you pick up that's all "What flavor lip gloss represents your style?"<br />
<br />
To celebrate a year of <i>Rookie, </i>Tavi edited and released <a href="http://rookiemag.com/shop/rookie-yearbook-one/" style="font-style: italic;">Rookie Yearbook One</a> via publisher <a href="http://www.drawnandquarterly.com/">Drawn & Quarterly</a>. This circles back to my original point, the TEDx talk. After watching, Susan (my library's teen librarian) ordered Tavi's book. I checked it out and just finished it yesterday. In a word, LOVE. Just fresh and funny and informative and made me feel awesome-- and I'm not even the target audience! Some highlights: How to Be a Happy Homebody, An Actually Useful Article About Dressing for a Party, Midnight Snacks: A Taxonomy, How Not to Care What Other People Think About You, Confessions of a Fangirl (which happens to be about Hanson, a favorite band of mine), Thrifting: The Master Class, and all sorts of interviews with amazing people.<br />
<br />
All these articles-- and more every day-- can be found on the <i>Rookie </i><a href="http://rookiemag.com/">website</a>. I highly recommend the book, too! Tavi has been on Jimmy Fallon and some other shows. She's a rising star.<br />
<br />
Enjoy.<br />
<br />
Ex libris,<br />
<br />
MarissaMarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-24372572307808030992013-01-31T20:02:00.001-05:002013-01-31T20:02:14.613-05:00January update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last time, I wrote about New Year's resolutions. How have I done so far? Nothing added to LibraryThing, but still putting titles in my ratty notebook which I haven't rebound yet. First two, nada. Organizing my room? I got a new clothes hamper, so the floor is tidier. 1 point for #3. Finishing my quilt...I bought some more fabric for said quilt, and I pulled out the squares from their hiding place. I've also taken apart some old clothes to repurpose into squares or bits for the quilt. 1.5 points for #4. I have made more art in that I finished spinning all the merino wool I got for Christmas, plus started spinning alpaca, and the quilt is out of the dark. 2 points for #5. Finally, traveling...I did drive to Williamstown, MA on MLK Day weekend and visited <a href="http://www.sweetbrookfarm.com/">Sweet Brook Farm</a> where I bought the aforementioned alpaca fiber and met the alpacas. I drove to Norfolk, MA last week, which is tucked off the beaten path and is quite lovely. There is no exit for it on 495-- you have to drive through Franklin, MA to get there, so it's a sneaky little gem. :) No visiting people I know per se, so 1 point for #6. I'm satisfied with that. It's only been a month. February brings my first Nutmeg meeting. I am also hoping for a snow day somewhere so I can bust out all my crafts. Craft extravaganza.<br />
<br />
In library-world news, ALA announced the Youth Media Awards, which are like the Oscars of the children's/YA book scene. I've read the Caldecott and Newbery winners already, but the Printz and Morris are now on my to-read list. If that sentence made no sense to you, go <a href="http://www.ala.org/news/pr?id=12298">here</a> for ALA's press release.<br />
<br />
Ex libris,<br />
<br />
MarissaMarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-27559398887028262902013-01-07T00:06:00.001-05:002013-01-07T00:06:51.202-05:00Resolutions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Another year! Man, they just fly by. A new year means resolutions. I think I have only ever <i>really </i>kept one resolution, and that was 2001 when I resolved to write down all the books I read like my grandmother did. I still do that with pen and paper. <a href="http://www.librarything.com/home/marissajeanine">My LibraryThing</a> is a small slice of the list. I read 83 books in 2012 (although I missed some because when I read a picture book on the fly or read to my Lego Club, I don't count those.) I will continue to keep that resolution, but here are a few things that I will try to do in 2013:<br />
<br />
1. I will <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e69138;">add all my books</span> to LibraryThing.<br />
2. I will take my old notebook I write my books in and <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e69138;">rebind</span> it.<br />
3. I will <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e69138;">organize</span> my room to the point that I can get a new bed.<br />
4. I will <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e69138;">finish the quilt</span> I started randomly some years ago.<br />
5. I will <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e69138;">make more art!</span> Bookbinding, spinning (my new love), whatever. It has been awhile.<br />
6. I will <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e69138;">visit</span> people and/or <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e69138;">travel</span> just for kicks. (Lookin' at you, Martin Luther King Jr. Day.)<br />
<br />
I'm going to stop there because I like even numbers. So, in short, be more creative, be more social, and clean up. I don't want to make any reading-related resolutions because of the Nutmeg Committee. I have 2 left of the 8 books I have to read by February 13. The Nutmeg Committee is a resolution in and of itself, reading-wise and being more social. I did that on purpose.<br />
<br />
A few recommendations while I have you:<br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/6752089">Dark Places</a> </i>by Gillian Flynn (before she wrote <i>Gone Girl</i>)<br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/11775312">The One and Only Ivan</a> </i>by Katherine Applegate<br />
<br />
Ex libris,<br />
<br />
Marissa<br />
<br />
<br />Marissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-65576446194092933162012-12-31T11:10:00.000-05:002012-12-31T11:10:56.323-05:00The BEST books of 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Here is my list of the best books of 2012! To be fair, I clearly have not read every book published this year, so this is all my personal opinion based on what I read. That being said, I am in the book-suggesting business as part of my job, so I think I can say with confidence that you will like at least one of these books. Books labeled <b>A </b>are adult books, <b>YA </b>are for teens, and <b>C </b>are for children. That's not to say that there are rules-- you can read whatever you please. I'm just using the labels as a guideline so you know who the books are targeted toward.<br />
<br />
The best book of 2012 was, without doubt, John Green's <i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/11456497">The Fault in Our Stars</a> </i><b>(YA)</b>. After I read it, I was so stunned and overwhelmed that I said out loud to no one, "I never have to read another book again. This is it." I could not pick up another book for a little while afterward because everything else seemed so trivial. I was so thrilled to meet John Green at BEA, and he continues to amaze me. So you have to read this one-- it's not optional.<br />
And now, for the rest of the list:<br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/11034017">Where Things Come Back</a> </i>by John Corey Whaley <b>(YA) </b>was actually published in the spring of 2011, but it won BOTH the <a href="http://www.ala.org/yalsa/printz">Printz</a> and <a href="http://www.ala.org/yalsa/morris">Morris Award</a> for 2012 and the paperback came out this summer, so I count it.<br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/11718247">The Disenchantments</a> </i>by Nina LaCour <b>(YA)</b><br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/12188261">Summer of the Gypsy Moths</a> </i>by Sara Pennypacker <b>(C)</b><br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/9721141">The Diviners</a> </i>by Libba Bray <b>(YA)</b><br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/11993910">Wonder</a> </i>by R.J. Palacio <b>(C)</b><br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/12538587">Every Day</a> </i>by David Levithan <b>(YA)</b><br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/12195704">Rabid: A Cultural History of the World's Most Diabolical Virus</a> </i>by Bill Wasik and Monica Murphy <b>(A)</b><br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/10111022">Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking</a> </i>by Susan Cain <b>(A)</b><br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/10177592">The Nightmare</a> </i>by Lars Kepler <b>(A)</b><br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/12471257">The Casual Vacancy</a> </i>by J.K. Rowling <b>(A)</b><br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/12469561">Pirate Cinema</a> </i>by Cory Doctorow <b>(YA)</b><br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/12420263">The Sandcastle Girls</a> </i>by Chris Bohjalian <b>(A)</b><br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/12037256">Charlie Joe Jackson's Guide to Extra Credit</a> </i>by Tommy Greenwald <b>(C)</b><br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/9630434">Erebos</a> </i>by Ursula Poznanski <b>(YA)</b><br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/11234211">Gone Girl</a> </i>by Gillian Flynn <b>(A)</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Enjoy!<br />
Ex libris,<br />
<br />
MarissaMarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-8903022303811686762012-12-23T21:21:00.000-05:002012-12-23T21:21:53.344-05:00Putting the "m" and "e" in committee!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwVHkfQ1N6GjcP4gNDWqz8EpTS3c0C-at2JOyYCcsmlpNXIpHVe1O95QTQYYzxUgRjNd-LUNf4bHBkebio1z5DVKKpLt2I0dZVrL9bEp2IfZ_0aiDqkRa-iXYHP3vcroeawDLGqXBcqnm6/s1600/NUTMEG-LOGO.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwVHkfQ1N6GjcP4gNDWqz8EpTS3c0C-at2JOyYCcsmlpNXIpHVe1O95QTQYYzxUgRjNd-LUNf4bHBkebio1z5DVKKpLt2I0dZVrL9bEp2IfZ_0aiDqkRa-iXYHP3vcroeawDLGqXBcqnm6/s1600/NUTMEG-LOGO.gif" /></a></div>
A few weeks ago, I applied to be on the Nutmeg nominating committee for 2015. (I KNOW-- already?) For those of you not in the fine Nutmeg State, the <a href="http://www.nutmegaward.org/">Nutmeg award</a> goes like this: the nominating committee of librarians and reading teachers read a LOT of books to be considered for the nomination. Then those books are narrowed down to ten by the committee. The noms are kept <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #ffd966;">TOP SECRET</span> until their announcement. Then kids and teens across the state read the Nutmeg noms and they can choose their favorite. The award itself is given to the book that gets the most votes from kids across the state.<br />
I grew up with the Nutmeg award, and now that I am finished with grad school, I thought I'd go for the committee. I applied for the teen committee (grades 7 and 8) and the high school committee (grades 9-12). I found out on Thursday that I got picked to be on the teen committee! (I got some disappointing news on Wednesday, so this was a welcome invitation).<br />
I work with children and teens, so the age level I'm reading for is quite good for any reader's advisory I may do at work since I am the "bridge" between the children's and teen departments. I already got a list of eight books (of which I already finished one-- BAM!) to read before the first meeting in February. These books are not necessarily ones I'd read myself (I tend to read YA and adult books) so I will be exposed to something new, plus I'll get to meet librarians and reading teachers and other rad bookish folks from across the state. The downside is I have to read something like 80 books in several months (and I average 50-70 a <i>year</i>) and I will have to set aside all other books in order to get through the pile. I apologize in advance to you, dear reader...and <a href="https://www.netgalley.com/">Netgalley</a>, where I have galleys waiting for me. I can't really review the books I'm reading since ten of them will be the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #ffd966;">TOP SECRET</span> nominees, so I will have to figure something out for the blog.<br />
<br />
I will post a list of my top books from 2012 soon, so stay tuned for that at least...and I will blog about awesome library programs or something while I do the Nutmeg thing.<br />
<br />
Ex libris,<br />
<br />
MarissaMarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-63301574858034117922012-12-19T08:31:00.000-05:002012-12-19T08:31:22.547-05:00NewtownI grew up near and still live very close to Newtown, CT. I am so overwhelmed by the tragedy there, and last night I took a break from watching the news because I just couldn't see anymore. A friend of a friend of mine was killed during the shooting. I can't believe that a place I know well is on international news. I don't want to go into the debate of mental illness and gun control and whatnot, I just wanted to blog to say that we should all keep our loved ones close and remember what happened last week. Also, there are relief efforts and scholarship funds being set up, so check those out and determine their legitimacy before you donate. You may also go to the website of the Newtown Town Hall <a href="http://www.newtown-ct.gov/Public_Documents/index">here</a> and get the details of the fund set up by the United Way of Western Connecticut.<br />
<br />
Ex libris,<br />
<br />
MarissaMarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-50509081136712546582012-12-03T12:28:00.000-05:002012-12-03T12:32:40.641-05:00Do you remember September?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCCEI_Q3n97zk_i9fqIwqxS32AkBz2HIEKtoNEeRMYgZI2UGsSQpOaqsDKDuxXX8EzPIsTweoz0aQnkSwYW9By7yjKbvMCxcSIJTdZVDnxaVT7Z_Z9jDM7cnNXihaVUCORZx-acklCDkYa/s1600/september-month-school-owls.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="98" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCCEI_Q3n97zk_i9fqIwqxS32AkBz2HIEKtoNEeRMYgZI2UGsSQpOaqsDKDuxXX8EzPIsTweoz0aQnkSwYW9By7yjKbvMCxcSIJTdZVDnxaVT7Z_Z9jDM7cnNXihaVUCORZx-acklCDkYa/s200/september-month-school-owls.png" width="200" /></a></div>
It is a universal truth that I'm not the best blogger. I am busy or I forget. Looking at the blog archive, I realize I didn't post in September this year. I could be tricky and backdate this post, but let's <i>pretend </i>it's September. What was I doing in September?<br />
I visited my <a href="http://www.imarty.com/">Aunt Marcy</a> in early September. In addition to being all-around cool, she's an author and illustrator. Her story <a href="http://www.highlightsteachers.com/media/hfc/teachers/print_and_read/hl_05_10_p26_27_runaway_blue.pdf">"Runaway Blue"</a> was in <i><a href="http://www.highlights.com/">Highlights</a> </i>magazine in 2010 (alas, they used a different illustrator). She's going to hit it crazy big one day with her art and writing, I know it. If you are a publisher and you have somehow found this blog, contact her immediately (just click on her name). You won't be sorry!<br />
I went to the <a href="http://www.goshenfair.org/">Goshen Fair</a> in Goshen, CT with my friend Andrea. I love fairs, but mostly to see the animals. I'm not big on rides, although the occasional Ferris Wheel is ok. I like the sheep best of all (see the fourth book in the list below).<br />
Finally, here are the books I read or listened to in September (that is, I <i>finished </i>them in September):<i> </i><br />
<i> <a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/12195704">Rabid: A Cultural History of the World's Most Diabolical Virus</a> </i>by Bill Wasik and Monica Murphy<br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/10111022">Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking</a> </i>by Susan Cain<br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/10930691">This Dark Endeavor: The Apprenticeship of Victor Frankenstein</a> </i>by Kenneth Oppel<br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/2760">No Idle Hands: The Social History of American Knitting</a> </i>by Anne L. Macdonald<br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/9630434">Erebos</a> </i>by Ursula Poznanski<br />
<i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/12420851">Splendors and Glooms</a> </i>by Laura Amy Schlitz<br />
<br />
<br />
There you have it! Our trip back to September is over. Now back to your regularly scheduled <b>December.</b><br />
<br />
Ex libris,<br />
<b> </b><br />
MarissaMarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-20921459344381689282012-11-28T01:02:00.000-05:002012-11-29T08:14:49.008-05:00La crème de la crème<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdKmgpfWH2-0BAVis7ObdxEwfQvgiTCPlSOyxWjmJR740A4u2_Nn86q1kx7mueP-iqZxdqwzTqafVMBq5FKLkrxC5bkBipCG_6fPInLiw7QoY31g0L8j5T41bj6zRFDyJoKIgfrJzdBHrW/s1600/creme+dela+creme+sweater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdKmgpfWH2-0BAVis7ObdxEwfQvgiTCPlSOyxWjmJR740A4u2_Nn86q1kx7mueP-iqZxdqwzTqafVMBq5FKLkrxC5bkBipCG_6fPInLiw7QoY31g0L8j5T41bj6zRFDyJoKIgfrJzdBHrW/s320/creme+dela+creme+sweater.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
"La cr<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 17px;">è</span>me de la cr<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 17px;">è</span>me" means "the best of the best." I learned that from <a href="http://www.judyblume.com/">Judy Blume's</a> <i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/100876">Just As Long As We're Together,</a> </i>one of my favorite books from elementary school. (When the phrase first appears in the book, I believe someone is commenting on brownies at a bake sale, so at first I thought it meant delicious and fudgy, but it was later explained.) But what is "the best of the best"? As Rachel says in <i>Just As Long As We're Together, </i>"Best is <i>best.</i>" Although Rachel may be right when it comes to friendships, I think there can definitely be more than one "best" when it comes to books. Apparently, so do all sorts of publishers, book reviewers, and websites. The fine folks at <a href="http://www.randomhouse.com/">Random House</a> collected the multitudinous "Best Books of 2012" lists on <a href="http://randomhouse.tumblr.com/post/35644058862/the-best-of-the-book-lists-2012">their Tumblr</a> so you can choose "la cr<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 17px;">è</span>me de la cr<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 17px;">è</span>me." I will post my own "best" list from this year in the near future, but for now, you can see what the other professionals have to say. ;)<br />
<br />
That cute sweater showed up a lot when I did an image search for "la cr<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 17px;">è</span>me de la cr<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 17px;">è</span>me" and is designed by Zoe Karssen. If you want to purchase it, you may click <a href="http://www.zoekarssen.com/">here.</a> Note that I have no affiliation with Ms. Karssen. I just want that sweater and if you like my blog you can get me one.<br />
<br />
Finally, someone remind me not to blog when I'm tired because I solicit sweater gifts, use words like "multitudinous," and use Judy Blume books as a lens through which to see the world. And I write sentences like that.<br />
<br />
Ex libris,<br />
<br />
sleepy Marissa<!------>Marissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-42337183424912254972012-11-25T09:37:00.000-05:002012-11-25T09:37:48.557-05:00My brilliant book reviewing career.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikz-GNERnKAyrSt2CmrCsUAXfq-7An0FVU8bQImlr7siOUphu6F-I1AQxSiiBYu86jr6WFtKlpd9OMD9DA5GZtFDr91lHp7z38OuSpuT3m6k7A82oqvFLeCdsnd3ES8AtopAQ20jRS5xVx/s1600/Asleep+with+book.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikz-GNERnKAyrSt2CmrCsUAXfq-7An0FVU8bQImlr7siOUphu6F-I1AQxSiiBYu86jr6WFtKlpd9OMD9DA5GZtFDr91lHp7z38OuSpuT3m6k7A82oqvFLeCdsnd3ES8AtopAQ20jRS5xVx/s320/Asleep+with+book.png" width="320" /></a></div>
I read, on average, about 50-70 books a year. Reading has always been one of my favorite activities, in addition to binding my own books and any craft involving yarn (I just started spinning-- next step is sheep shearing school). I also enjoy the occasional bout of doing nothing, and I watch TV. So I'm quite pleased with my yearly book average. Then when I finished my Master's degree (huzzah!) I thought to myself, aha! Now I can continue working on the <a href="http://read1001books.blogspot.com/">1001 Books Project</a> with my sister (she's in the C books, I'm still in the A books), and read more in general, and read galleys on <a href="https://www.netgalley.com/">Netgalley</a>, and continue my TV-crafty-nothing-doing. I admit, I may have been overambitious in this quest. I know of several librarians who work at their day jobs, write reviews for major publications, serve on committees, present at conferences, and also seem to get their laundry done. And they usually have more familial obligations than I do (I have one dog). That being said, I am considering applying to be on the <a href="http://www.nutmegaward.org/">Nutmeg Book Award</a> committee, which will kick my reading into super high gear. I think it will be quite cool to have a hand in the Nutmeg nominees. I may never be a professional book reviewer, but I can still be a good librarian.<br />
<br />
Ex libris,<br />
<br />
MarissaMarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-18712069391479902312012-10-01T14:03:00.000-04:002012-10-01T14:06:37.208-04:00Every Day was new.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1LjdIeIAERDTGyT7TvOze0nk6WEnB278_nhURFl9Vr16jBxCgbdpaoOL9H-QcQ99M7BDn_GaJffcC4G0W6jzElBwMbd0rHTNU07Uo6Pjs8ixF5v6asJ70ogDjilIPPtoPW6mpzMQG9uOE/s1600/every+day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1LjdIeIAERDTGyT7TvOze0nk6WEnB278_nhURFl9Vr16jBxCgbdpaoOL9H-QcQ99M7BDn_GaJffcC4G0W6jzElBwMbd0rHTNU07Uo6Pjs8ixF5v6asJ70ogDjilIPPtoPW6mpzMQG9uOE/s320/every+day.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
I hope I mentioned somewhere in this blog that I love David Levithan. I finished his latest, <i>Every Day</i>, weeks ago but it was late and I didn't get to write about it until now. I made some notes immediately after reading it. Here they are: "Stunning and heartbreaking. Unfair. Mind existing without body. Time Traveler's Wife-ish. Cried. Cried after I already cried. Doomed to wander forever? Wanted to make it last. Read the last third of the ARC in one go."<br />
<i>Every Day </i>is the story of A, who wakes up in a different body every day of his life. It's clear that (he? she?) is used to this as it has been happening since (he? she?) was born. I'll refer to A as "he" from now on because he's a he when we first meet him. A wakes up in the body of a guy named Justin and spends the day with his girlfriend Rihannon. A is connected to Rihannon but is never the same person twice, so how can he make it work? Levithan explores the idea of being connected on a cerebral level, no matter what. A wakes up in bodies of those similar in age to himself, but sometimes he's a girl or a boy, popular or a loner, pretty or ugly. He's able to "access" key information about who he is that day in order to make it through, but he has no home for his soul. After meeting Rihannon, though, A wants to get to know her. He does all he can to get back to her (he wakes up in roughly the same geographical area as long as the body he's in doesn't travel). He meets her in many of his different forms in hopes that their connection can transcend the physical. But will Rihannon feel the same?<br />
<br />
It blew my mind. Go read it.<br />
<br />
Ex libris,<br />
<br />
MarissaMarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-31614157985834521762012-08-02T00:36:00.000-04:002012-10-01T14:03:49.027-04:00Woohoo for Katie Woo!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhckEcUu39esXrHgNzv9l2NQTVUcFyXOnJhftebshB6h9aC6TrV_yr5VBKFaBoImPxbf76l2T_Gk03vcNGRPKOB7Y7fMZdrocZ8gYZ0j2CnkN8sQYKO_9OXHmUxbrwStfEScQ-6G56Ch0Jq/s1600/katie+woo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhckEcUu39esXrHgNzv9l2NQTVUcFyXOnJhftebshB6h9aC6TrV_yr5VBKFaBoImPxbf76l2T_Gk03vcNGRPKOB7Y7fMZdrocZ8gYZ0j2CnkN8sQYKO_9OXHmUxbrwStfEScQ-6G56Ch0Jq/s320/katie+woo.jpg" width="255" /></a></div>
Katie Woo! Her name sounds like an exclamation! <i><a href="http://www.capstonekids.com/characters/Katie-Woo/index.html">Katie Woo Rules the School</a></i>, released yesterday from <a href="http://www.capstonepub.com/">Capstone Young Readers</a>, is refreshing. Maybe it's because I read a lot of YA books, but it was nice to step back into a linear storyline with a handful of characters, headed by the bespectacled first grader Katie Woo. This book is actually a collection of several shorter stories, almost episodes. I like that the stories address minor problems without a lot of fanfare and not to much adult interference. For example, Katie is picked on by the class bully in one of the stories. She handles it in her own way and resolves the problem-- no parent-teacher conference or class assembly on bullying needed. She's empowered, for a first grader.<br />
<br />
Written by <a href="http://www.franmanushkin.com/">Fran Manushkin</a> and illustrated by <a href="http://www.mbartists.com/cgi-bin/iowa/artists.html?artist=66">Tammie Lyon</a>, this early chapter book for kindergarteners and up is a nice new entry in this field which has been dominated by another bespectacled girl, Junie B. Jones, for some time now. Simultaneously available is <i>Katie Woo and Friends </i>and twenty-four Katie Woo paperbacks (as opposed to collections like this one)<i>. </i>If you've burned through Junie B. but aren't quite ready for Ivy and Bean or (my favorite) Ramona, Katie Woo may be your go-to girl.<br />
<br />
So.much.fun.<br />
<br />
Ex libris,<br />
<br />
MarissaMarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-30983381355244282832012-07-17T15:11:00.000-04:002012-07-17T19:16:57.232-04:00The Diviners, OR, why Libba Bray is awesome<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaNkBObSta6BMpdsmD_82cn1oAURDpmgNf3R_WrWAdIyrO-y9qYe3OMcKj6QLj_jBypRCpK2dbei2Eh_48oyWUCM-M5QRSmUcs9uBnHDd-YfcaI2T7aUi9TC0ON9UidgBdweQugNlkgiQ1/s1600/diviners.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaNkBObSta6BMpdsmD_82cn1oAURDpmgNf3R_WrWAdIyrO-y9qYe3OMcKj6QLj_jBypRCpK2dbei2Eh_48oyWUCM-M5QRSmUcs9uBnHDd-YfcaI2T7aUi9TC0ON9UidgBdweQugNlkgiQ1/s320/diviners.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<a href="http://libbabray.com/">Libba Bray</a> is astonishing. With the exception of her <i>Gemma Doyle </i>trilogy, her other books have been standalones that span all genres. <i><a href="http://libbabray.com/going-bovine/">Going Bovine</a>,</i> the only book I know of that combines mad cow disease and Don Quixote, won the Printz Award several years ago. And now, she writes her latest novel <i>The Diviners.</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
It's the era of Prohibition and flappers, Ziegfeld girls and speakeasys. After a faux pas at home in Ohio, bubbly, "everything's jake" Evie O'Neill has arrived in New York to stay with her uncle Will. Will curates the Museum of American Folklore, Superstition, and the Occult. When a peculiar murder with apparent occult ties occurs, the police call upon Will to help solve the crime. And that's where the easy explanation ends.<br />
<br />
Evie helps her uncle untangle the complicated threads of a story tying together religion, the occult, and a sacred covenant made years before. At the same time, we learn about other characters on the fringes of Evie's story: Memphis, a numbers runner; Jericho, Will's assistant at the museum; Theta, a Ziegfeld girl; and Sam, a petty thief. As Evie's story continues, it is clear that all these characters have ties with something bigger than themselves. The something is a looming thing of nightmares and evil<br />
<br />
I can't even elaborate on this story anymore without serious spoilers, and I can't fully explain the "something." The ARC that I got at BookExpo is 578 pages, and this is the first in a four-part series that I can only assume covers the stories of the other characters in Evie's story. <a href="http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/BRE85B1CJ-ORVFL/FILM-US-THEDIVINERS-RIGHTS">The film rights have already been snapped up by Paramount</a> (wise move!) via <a href="http://fakeempire.com/">Fake Empire</a> and this promises to be an epic, Roaring-Twenties adventure with layers of darkness and occultism.<br />
<br />
I stayed up way too late as I got deeper and deeper into this story. The world building and historical imagery are impeccable. After watching Ken Burns' documentary <i><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1950799/">Prohibition</a> </i>earlier this year,<i> </i>I was totally onboard with the time period. At first I didn't like Evie's "pos-i-tute-ly" flapper slang, but as the story built into this maelstrom of intrigue and horror, it became so secondary that I just sat up turning page after page. The story reads like a movie, and I can't wait to see how it translates into film. It's one book-to-film that I'm not dreading!<br />
<br />
I do wonder how this book will be received by teens. There's plenty of plot and lots of characters to keep the story going (and Evie is seventeen in the story), but I wonder how the (grisly!) murders and the time period will resonate. The connection I draw is that each time period has an expected "apocalypse" and this story is what apocalypse looked like in the Twenties. The fact that it is a time before a lot of modern technology makes it all the more scary. Beyond the family, there isn't a global community with whom to share common experiences. Local papers are the time period's Facebook status, if you will, and not knowing is a fear in and of itself.<br />
<br />
<i>The Diviners </i>will be published in September by <a href="http://www.hachettebookgroup.com/publishing_little-brown-and-company.aspx">Little, Brown and Company Books for Young Readers.</a> Libba, thank you for being amazing and signing my ARC at BookExpo. Paramount and Fake Empire, thank you for seeing the amazing movie opportunity in this book.<br />
<br />
Ex libris and everything's jake,<br />
<br />
MarissaMarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-53336630137509564262012-07-15T23:03:00.000-04:002012-07-15T23:05:25.329-04:00Once I read a book and it was a gas...its title was Throne of Glass<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I couldn't help referencing Blondie's "Heart of Glass" in the title of this post. Every time I've opened up the digital galley to read <i><a href="http://sarahjmaas.com/books/queen-of-glass/">Throne of Glass</a>, </i>those catchy lines (the only ones I know) have skittered across my brain. "Da dada dada, and it was a gas...da dada dada, heart of glass."<br />
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Anyway, <i>Throne of Glass </i>was a gas-- an exciting fantasy with a beautiful and deadly heroine. Throw in a competition, a prince, and a unknown evil, and you've got a great escapist read.<br />
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Eighteen-year-old Celaena Sardothien was her country Adarlan's most notorious assassin, until she got caught. Forced into slavery in a salt mine, she refuses to be broken. She remains as cunning and deadly as ever. When the Crown Prince of Adarlan arrives at the mine, she is surprised, especially when he reveals his intention. Celaena is to compete against other villains and soldiers in a competition. If she wins, she will be named King's Champion and be freed after a period of servitude. If she loses, it is back to the mine and certain death.<br />
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Wanting her freedom, Celeana agrees-- grudgingly-- to the deal. She is transported to the Glass Castle where she will train and compete under an assumed name. Despite her unbreakable spirit and prickly demeanor, she has caught the Crown Prince's eye and the eye of her trainer, the Captain of the Royal Guard. As training begins, a series of murders alarms castle residents. It appears to be an otherworldly force, but that is impossible because magic has disappeared from the kingdom. Or has it? Can Celaena figure out the force behind the murders <i>and</i> win the competition?<br />
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I was skeptical about this story, to be honest. Pretty girl assassin? Handsome prince? I was concerned that Celaena was going to be too frothy and the prince was going to be a doofus. But aha! I was wrong! What I liked a lot about Celaena is that she has an edge to her. She may look awesome in a ballgown, but you best make sure she doesn't have a knife strapped to her thigh. And the prince, Dorian, is handsome but has character to back it up. Their dialogue is well-crafted and snarky. I loved it.<br />
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Celaena is not transformed overnight. I tip my hat to <a href="http://sarahjmaas.com/">Sarah Maas</a>, the author, for developing all of the characters in this book in measured steps. All the parts of this book unfold in a wonderful way, and it is clearly first in a series that shows promise.<br />
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The blurb on Netgalley calls <i>Throne of Glass </i>"the teen girl version of <i>Game of Thrones.</i>" I have only read the first in that series, but I like to think that Arya Stark would grow up to be like Celaena Sardothien-- crafty and quick with a sword.<br />
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This is a debut novel by Sarah Maas, but she's been writing this epic online for years. Congratulations on getting this book in print, Sarah, and I look forward to the next in the series! <i>Throne of Glass </i>will be published on August 7, 2012 by <a href="http://www.bloomsbury.com/childrens">Bloomsbury Children's Books</a>, a division of <a href="http://www.bloomsbury.com/default.aspx">Bloomsbury Publishing</a>. The digital galley was provided through <a href="http://www.netgalley.com/">Netgalley</a>.<br />
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Ex libris,<br />
<br />
Marissa<br />
<br />Marissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-33583160412738731412012-07-07T12:49:00.000-04:002012-07-15T23:04:28.607-04:00"Trash" into treasure<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><a href="http://www.hmhbooks.com/hmh/site/hmhbooks/bookdetails?isbn=9780982732267&srch=true#">Junk-Box Jewelry</a> </i>is a way to justify saving stuff. I love saving stuff. I have old watch faces, extra buttons, and more bits of yarn than I know what to do with. I took a wire working course in January, so I was looking forward to see <a href="http://www.sarahdrew.com/index.php?main_page=page&id=11">Sarah Drew's</a> take on DIY jewelry.<br />
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This book is marketed toward teens who are beginner or intermediate jewelry makers. I would lean more toward intermediate because some of these projects seem pretty involved. This is definitely a plan-before-you-make book. I love the idea of using "junk" to make new things, but these projects require jewelry wire, clasps, and tools. Bead stringing this isn't. Some projects are easier, but I think there are more intermediate projects than beginner in this book.<br />
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I like a lot of the projects Sarah Drew shows, especially the "Beach Finds" chapter with sea glass, shells, and bits of plastic. Next time I go to Cape Cod, my eyes will be scanning the sand!<br />
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The projects are well-illustrated and clearly explained, which is much appreciated. However, some of the "teen language" Drew uses feels a little forced. When describing lobster clasps: "No, they don't taste good dipped in butter..." On how to find supplies: "Tell your folks you want to organize or clean up and you'll earn serious brownie points." It sounds <i>intentionally </i>trendy. Luckily, as the book continues, this "omg totally awesome" tone wanes, or maybe I just got used to it. It doesn't affect the instructions, which is good.<br />
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Hats off to Drew for indicating that an adult's help might be needed when it comes to using a Dremel tool. I would suggest a similar note in the "Selling Your Work" section in the back. Etsy and eBay are great resources, but a bank account has to be connected to PayPal to purchase items or receive payment.<br />
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This is a good choice for intermediate-level teen crafters who want to branch out from using store-bought supplies. This book was received for review through <a href="http://www.netgalley.com/">Netgalley</a>. It was published by <a href="http://zestbooks.net/books/">Zest Books</a> on June 27, 2012 and is available for purchase.<br />
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Ex libris,<br />
<br />
MarissaMarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1427392583641898613.post-77469370270272591872012-07-06T22:02:00.000-04:002012-07-15T23:05:08.021-04:00Two non-paranormal books that I really enjoyed.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I recently finished two books that I really enjoyed. <i><a href="http://www.randomhouse.com/book/78377/sisters-of-glass-by-stephanie-hemphill">Sisters of Glass</a> </i>by <a href="http://www.epicreads.com/authors/stephanie-hemphill/230/">Stephanie Hemphill</a> was historical fiction and <i><a href="http://www.dianarenn.net/books.html">Tokyo Heist</a> </i>by <a href="http://www.dianarenn.net/">Diana Renn</a> was a mystery. Nary a ghoul in sight. I was happy to read some realistic books for myself and also to recommend to others who may be worn out from paranormal books or dystopias. I like those genres as much as the next person, but it's nice to read something different for a change!<br />
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<i>Sisters of Glass </i>snagged me with its beautiful cover, and then really snagged me with its subject matter-- glassblowing. For a long time it was my career ambition to be a glassblower. I took workshops and even interned for a <a href="http://www.calebnichols.com/index.html">glassblower</a> in college. To be fair, the book is not just about glassblowing. It's also a story about family, love, and duty. Maria is the younger daughter of a glassblower, who has stipulated that she marry a nobleman. She'd rather work in the furnaces of the glass shop or sketch. Her older sister Giovanna is miffed that she was passed over for the betrothal, and Maria finds herself falling for a man she can't have.<br />
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The novel is written in non-rhyming verse, and most of it is quite lyrical and pretty. The atmosphere of Murano, the Venetian island where glass is produced, feels sort of mystical. The story follows a traditional arc and it was refreshing to read one point of view instead of many. As I was reading, I was concerned that Stephanie Hemphill would lose readers with the glassmaking terminology she uses, but behold! A glossary at the end. I'd recommend this to historical fiction fans and any teen interested in glassblowing (although I might've been the only one, and that was-- gulp-- fifteen years ago). For a different, much more complicated story set in France, try Daphne du Maurier's <i><a href="http://www.librarything.com/work/159835/covers/87433738">The Glass-Blowers</a>.</i><br />
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Now, for something completely different: <i>Tokyo Heist. </i>This one got me from the art angle too-- it's about a stolen van Gogh painting. Violet arrives in Seattle to spend time with her dad. His employers have recently commissioned him to paint a mural in their office building in Japan. Unfortunately, they have also recently been burglarized and a van Gogh has gone missing. Violet goes to Japan with her dad so he can work on the mural and Violet tries to solve the mystery surrounding the painting and the gangsters who want it. This is a fast-paced mystery with international flavor.<br />
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Violet reads a lot of manga and is a budding artist herself, so at the same time her own story is going on, she's writing a manga story called <i>Kimono Girl. </i>I really liked the parallel stories of Violet and Kimono Girl. I know pretty much nothing about manga other than it's Japanese, but I still found it accessible in this story. There are Japanese words sprinkled throughout that can be figured out from context, and they are used purposefully. I really enjoyed this one.<br />
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<i>Sisters of Glass </i>was published under <a href="http://www.randomhouse.com/">Random House's</a> Knopf imprint in March of 2012 and is available now. <i>Tokyo Heist </i>was published under <a href="http://us.penguingroup.com/">Penguin's</a> Viking imprint in mid-June of 2012 and is also available now.</div>
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Ex libris,<br />
<br />
MarissaMarissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03488381101561379974noreply@blogger.com0