The Last Day of BEDA!

I totally cannot believe I finished BEDA. I had barely any confidence! So, I think I will try something like this more often. It was a very beneficial experience, and I quite enjoyed it. So, more posts coming soon, that are going to be mostly reviews and such.

Congratulations to everyone who participated in BEDA!

The Giver by Lois Lowry

So,
I read this book for class, it was surprisingly good. Here is a small summary:

At the age of twelve, Jonas, a young boy from a seemingly utopian, futuristic world, is singled out to receive special training from The Giver, who alone holds the memories of the true joys and pain of life.


Normally, I don't like books that I have to read for class, but this book was very nice and interesting. Lois Lowry is an excellent books writer, and I look forward to reading her books. The society that Jonas lives in, is a very tightly-knitted community. The book overall was very well written, but I didn't really agree with the premise of the story. The community bugged me. I mean, they were all the same. I know that that is one of the main reasons of the book. But still...

Like I said before, Lois Lowry is a beautiful writer and I look forward to reading more of her books.

An Interview with Sara Zarr

1. Is there a special placed where you do all of your writing?


I rent an office away from home and do a lot of work there, but I can pretty much work anywhere when there's a deadline pressing!


2. Is there any advice you have for aspiring writers?


Read a lot, and focus on finishing something---a short story or a novel. Find someone to exchange manuscripts with and give each other honest but constructive criticism. This probably shouldn't be someone in your family, or your best friend. It only causes problems, trust me...


3. If you could write a book with any author, who would you write a book with?


Oh, good question. Maybe Anne Tyler, who writes these great family comi-dramas for adults. I could write teenage girl parts, and she could write the mother parts!


4. Who are some of your favorite authors?


Beverly Cleary, ME Kerr, Robert Cormier, Madeleine L'Engle, Brock Cole, so many more...


5. Is there anything that you would like to add?


I'm really excited that there are so many new, young book bloggers coming onto the scene! Keep up the great work.


I would like to thank Sara Zarr for doing this interview.

What Am I Reading?

So, I completely forgot about BEDA today. So, I am just going to tell you what I am currently reading.


The Giver by Lois Lowry
When it Happens by Susan Colasanti

Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson

This was a wonderful book.


Lia and Cassie are best friends, wintergirls frozen in matchstick bodies, competitors in a deadly contest to see who can be the skinniest. But what comes after size zero and size double-zero? When Cassie succumbs to the demons within, Lia feels she is being haunted by her friend's restless spirit.


It takes a great writer to write wonderfully.
It takes an even more great author to write wonderfully about hard subjects.

Laurie Halse Anderson is one of the more than great authors.

This book was amazing. I finished it last night, and I couldn't stop reading. This was the first book by Laurie Halse Anderson that I have completed. It must've been a hard book to write, because it definitely was a hard book to read. I loved it! I can't wait to get my own copy. It was wonderfully written and incredibly addicting.

BEDA 25: Blaaa! And... a note on Wintergirls...

I told you all that there would be better posts coming up, and I'm sorry to say, but I still haven't written any good posts today. I have to finish reading a few books, and hopefully tonight I will finish reading Wintergirls.

That brings me to the second thing I want to talk about...

WINTERGIRLS!!!!


My school library got it in yesterday, and I just HAD to check it out. I hadn't read it, and I was dying to. So, I got it. And, I started reading it this morning. It is fabulous! It in incredibly sad, but beautifully written. Hopefully there will be a review soon.


BYE!

BEDA

Sorry,
This is going to be a really crappy post because, It's late and I'm tired and I don't feel like using my brain right now.

There will be better posts soon, sorry.

BYE!!!

Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles

This was an awesome book!

When Brittany Ellis walks into chemistry class on the first day of senior year, she has no clue that her carefully created “perfect” life is about to unravel before her eyes. She’s forced to be lab partners with Alex Fuentes, a gang member from the other side of town, and he is about to threaten everything she's worked so hard for—her flawless reputation, her relationship with her boyfriend, and the secret that her home life is anything but perfect. Alex is a bad boy and he knows it. So when he makes a bet with his friends to lure Brittany into his life, he thinks nothing of it. But soon Alex realizes Brittany is a real person with real problems, and suddenly the bet he made in arrogance turns into something much more.



I loved this book so much! Simone Elkeles is an amazing author! I bought this book on a whim and I am so glad I decided to get it. It was a sweet heart warming story with twists and turns that will make you feel the emotions that the characters feel. The way this book is written allows you to see inside the two main characters heads, I normally don't like books like that. But Simone wrote is well-enough to where I love the way its written, and I love that I know what the characters are thinking. I strongly recommend this book, it was marvelous.

An Interview with Carrie Jones

So, I recently did an interview with Carrie Jones, who is the author of Need.




1. Where did you get the idea for Need?

Okay. This is sort of a strange story. You have to promise not to think I'm weird.

I was at the Common Ground Fair, which is this huge, cool fair in Maine that’s sponsored by Maine Organic Farmers and Growers Association (MOFGA). To get to the main part of the fair you have to walk through this sweet trail that curves through these tall spruce trees.

Right in front of me was this guy. He had a weird vibe. He was wearing all corduroy – blazer, pants. And sticking out from his blazer was this long tail-like appendage that was wrapped in different colored earth-toned cloth. I guess he could tell I was checking him out because he turned his head and looked at me. His eye was this startling silver color. How startling? So startling that I actually gasped and got creeped out.

Then when we were in line to pay we made eye contact again and his eyes were brown.

I know! I know! I probably imagined the silver eye color.

It doesn’t matter. That was one of the main things that got me started. Then, I just had this image of a man standing outside an airport pointing at an airplane this girl was on.

It also creeped me out.

So, I started writing.



2. When you found out that Need was going to get published, did you expect it to have the wild amount of popularity that it has now?

Oh gosh. Do you think it's wildly popular, really? I live way up the coast of Maine so I am so out of it when it comes to stuff like popularity. But - yeah - when I found out NEED was going to be published I was totally psyched. I didn't even think about it being popular I was just so happy it was going to go in print. The fact that it's gone into multiple printings since it came out in December just blows me away.

3. Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?

Everyone writes differently and lives differently so I'm never cool at telling people, "YOU MUST DO IT MY WAY!"
But what has helped me is:
1. Reading tons of other books and seeing what I like or don't like in them.
2. Writing every day even if it's only one sentence. It's hard to be a writer if you don't write.
3. Doing as much as I can outside of writing. You know, falling in love, feeling emotions, doing random things like going on a mussel dredging boat at 5 am or being an undercover hooker, and listening to other people's stories. I think the best writers are those that can understand people and why they do things. I'm still working on that.

4. What did it feel like when you got your first book published?

I was basically in shock. I went to the Borders that's about 40 minutes from my house and snuck into the YA section hoping it was there. I basically passed out when I saw someone actually lifting up my book and checking it out.

I kept whispering, "Buy it! Buy it!"

And I basically was doing this very subdued happy dance in the middle grade book section because I was so psyched.

It was subdued because I didn't want management to come and kick me out of the store.
5. What are some of your favorite Young Adult authors?

I am pretty eclectic. I love E. Lockhart and John Green and Cassie Clare and Michelle Jaffe and Rita Williams-Garcia and M.T. Anderson and Sherman Alexie and Tim Wynne-Jones and Sharon Darrow and Cynthia Leitich Smith. There's a ton of authors who graduated from Vermont College School of Fine Arts and I adore all of them as well. But if I listed them all -- it would be pretty bad.

6. When did you know that you first wanted to become an author?

I used to write a TON when I was little but I never thought of being an author. Right after college I wanted to be a poet and I was but I couldn't make ANY money at it so I became a reporter and newspaper editor. Then in 2005 I thought, "Dude, it is SO much more fun to make stories up than to write about real things." So I applied to Vermont College and started the program in 2006. My first book came out in 2007. It was pretty fast and cool.

7. Why did you choose to write Young Adult fiction?

I think it's just my natural voice and I really care about things that young adults deal with -- things like identity and choice and freedom. Plus, young adults are just made of awesome.

I also have two nonfiction picture books coming out that aren't for young adults. My favorite story I've ever written is actually middle grade.

When we write books we can write them according to accepted forms, kind of like a Playmobile castle, following all the directions. People know what they get that way. And it can be really good, really comforting and empowering.

Or when we write books we can freestyle a bit more, mixing up Playmobiles with Legos. We can design our own thing and in doing that come at the truth in a slightly different way, a way that might make us question our world view.

What does this have to do with why I write for kids/teens?

As a writer, I want to write things that are crazy Playmobile/Lego mixes. A little Chick-lit with a some literary with some T.S. Eliot theory thrown in.

I write for teens because I want to empower them. I want to create a world they recognize and legitimize their world by presenting it as truth, but I also want teens to question that world a little bit, shake up that world view, question it. It’s only by searching and exploring that we can figure our way back to the truth that is our own.

I think kids/teens are really good explorers, and truth-seekers. I like that. So I write for that.

8. Do you have a special place where you do all of your writing?

A tiny little table that's crammed between the side of the refrigerator and the piano. ;(
Someday I'll have a real grown-up office, I swear.


9. If you could have any other profession, besides being an author, what would you be?

I'd like to work for Amnesty International.
I'd also like to be one of those travel writer people. So cool.

10. Is there anything that you would like to add?

Gosh no. Thank you so much for interviewing me. I am really honored.




I would like to say thanks to Carrie Jones for agreeing to do this interview.

An Interview with David Levithan

1. How is it collaborating with authors to write a book?
It's fantastic. The key, I think, is to still have your individual part (whether it's every other chapter, or it's a certain part of the book) while at the same time getting that back-and-forth energy from working with someone else. It's different in specifics with every person I've collaborated with, but there's definitely always a buzz from seeing what the other person throws my way -- and what I can throw back.


2. You have a huge fanbase, is there anything crazy that has happened? If so, what was it?
Well, the whole thing is crazy in a way -- you write a book in relative isolation... and then suddenly it brings all these new people into your life. But probably the strangest thing that's happened that I didn't foresee is that a few people have gotten tattoos with phrases from my books. It makes everything seem so...permanent.


3. Do you have a set amount of books that you plan on writing?
Oh no. As many as I can, I'd say.


4. Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?
Just the usual advice: to write and write and write and read and read and read and then write some more. Don't worry about getting published. Just try to get it right.


5. I know and have heard of numerous people who look-up to you. How do you feel about teens who look-up to you and your books?
Probably it's a mix of "I'm not worthy!" and "That's awesome!" I think the books really are the objects of the admiration -- and to get that response is incredible. And, hey, I got to be who I am because I looked up to all the right people (including my super cool parents). And I'm still who I am because I look up to the right people. I find that most admiration is two-way.


6. Is there anything that would like to add?
That I'm still jealous you have a Salvatore jacket. (He was talking about Khy)



Thanks you so much to David Levithan for doing this interview! You are an amazing author!

Perfect You by Elizabeth Scott

I loved this book so much!


Kate Brown's life has gone downhill fast. Her father has quit his job to sell vitamins at the mall, and Kate is forced to work with him. Her best friend has become popular, and acts like Kate's invisible.

And then there's Will. Gorgeous, unattainable Will, who Kate pretends she can't stand even though she can't stop thinking about him. And when Will starts acting interested, Kate hates herself for wanting him even though she knows she's just his latest conquest.

Kate figures the only way things will ever stop hurting is if she keeps to herself and stops caring about anyone or anything. What she doesn't realize is that while life may not always be perfect, good things can happen--but only if she lets them.


So, like I said before; I loved this book Elizabeth Scott is a brilliant author. And, in Perfect You, she displays her brilliance well. I couldn't put this book down! Last night, when I went to a family gathering; and I found myself sitting in the corner reading his book. For any young adult who hasn't read this, you really should. You will find yourself caught up in an amazing world, that unlike some novels are very realistic. I found that I could easily relate to the characters in this book, and I hope you will too.

BEDA 19: Skype Fiesta Bookclub and Bean Awareness Movement

So, a bunch of awesome bloggers and I started the Skype Fiesta Bookclub and Bean Awareness Movement!!! You can find it here . So, if you like Fiesta's, Books, or Bean's come check us out!

To join the Fiesta Bookclub and Bean Awareness Movement, you need to have Skype! So, go on , join!

An Interview with Elizabeth Scott

So, I did an interview with Elizabeth Scott. So, here it is:


1. Is there a main place where you get your book ideas from? Dreams? Experiences?

None of my novels are autobiographical, and so they definitely aren't based on experiences! I've gotten story ideas from all over the place--while I'm driving, while I'm cleaning, and I have actually gotten ideas from dreams.

2. Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?

Read. Most people who want to be writers already have the writing thing down--know the importance of revision, etc. etc. But if you really want to write, I firmly believe you need to read as much as you can--not just in the genre you want to write, but from all over the place.

3. When did you first know you wanted to become a writer?

When I sold my first book! I started writing for fun, and I looked for an agent because my friends had been nagging--I mean asking!! :-) -- me to try and get things published. And then I ended up getting an agent, which stunned me. I figured that would be it, but then I ended up selling two books to an editor I met at an SCBWI conference. When that happened, I thought, "Wow. This is real. And I LIKE this!"


4. Why did you choose to write YA Fiction?

It wasn't a choice--it's just what I've always written. Even when I wrote for fun, I wrote a lot of stories about teenagers. Being a teenager is probably the most intense experience you'll ever go through in that you're expected to be planning your future--and yet, a lot of the time, your life is shaped by what people want you to be. And pushing through that and coming into your own--it's so hard.

5. What was it like finding out your first book was going to be published?

Shocking. Amazing. Magical.


6. Do you have a special place where you do all of your writing?

I do a lot of writing in bed, but I'll pretty much write anywhere.


7. Did you have any say on what the cover of your books would look like? Do you like them? If you could, would you change them?

I do get to offer input, which is awesome, and Simon Pulse is really fantastic about showing me potential covers and asking for my thoughts.

I love all my covers--I've been very lucky!


8. If you could have any other profession, besides being an author, what would you choose to be?

If someone out there is willing to pay me to read, I'd be all over that!


9. Is there anything you would like to add?


What sort of questions do you--kind interview reader!!--like to see asked? What do you wish authors would talk about more?




I would like to say thanks to Elizabeth Scott for doing this interview!

Today is Kristi's Birthday!!!

Yep.
That's right.
Today is Kristi's of The Story Siren
BIRTHDAY!


So, go on over there and wish her a Happy Birthday!


Kristi is a very awesome blogger and you all should read her posts!

Need by Carrie Jones

After tons of people telling me to read this, I did.

Zara collects phobias the way other high school girls collect lipsticks. Little wonder, since life’s been pretty rough so far. Her father left, her stepfather just died, and her mother’s pretty much checked out. Now Zara’s living with her grandmother in sleepy, cold Maine so that she stays “safe.” Zara doesn’t think she’s in danger; she thinks her mother can’t deal.

Wrong. Turns out that guy she sees everywhere, the one leaving trails of gold glitter, isn’t a figment of her imagination. He’s a pixie—and not the cute, lovable kind with wings. He’s the kind who has dreadful, uncontrollable needs. And he’s trailing Zara.

So, like I mentioned before, a lot of people told be to read this book. I read it yesterday morning, and I wouldn't get out of bed until I finished it. It was a very well written and well thought out novel. I didn't want it to end, hopefully; there will be a sequel! There was surprise twists and thrilling adventures! This book was awesome!

Shrimp by Rachel Cohn

The second book in the awesome series that is written by the lovely Rachel Cohn.

Now that Cyd Charisse has returned home from her summer in New York City, she's got a new mission: to reclaim her true love, Shrimp, the hottest pint-size artist-surfer in San Francisco. Yes, he broke up with her before she left San Francisco -- but Cyd has grown up over the summer, and she doesn't plan to let Shrimp get away that easily this time around.
Besides her relationship with Shrimp, Cyd is attempting to keep the new peace at home with her mother, who is bugging her about college applications -- even though Cyd's idea of life after high school involves bumming on the beach with Shrimp.

This is yet another piece of brilliance by the wonderful Rachel Cohn. This book was magnificently written, and I am really happy that she decided to write it. It was a kick-butt novel! Though Cyd Charisse is a very confident at times, we see a side of her that some of the characters in the book don't see. She actually can be unsure, and heartbroken. Once again, Rachel Cohn had out done herself. She went above and beyond in this book. You should totally check this series out!

Gingerbread by Rachel Cohn

The first of an awesome series.

After being kicked out of a fancy New England boarding school, Cyd Charisse is back home in San Francisco with her parents, Sid and Nancy, in a household that drives her crazy. Lucky for Cyd, she's always had Gingerbread, her childhood rag doll and confidante.
After Cyd tests her parents' permissiveness, she is grounded in Alcatraz (as Cyd calls her room). But when her incarceration proves too painful for the whole family, Cyd's parents decide to send her to New York to meet her biological father and his family, whom Cyd has always longed to know.
Summer in the city is not what Cyd Charisse expects - and Cyd isn't what her newfound family expects, either.

So, this was the second book by Rachel Cohn that I've read, and it was amazing. I swear, Rachel Cohn is one of the best YA authors I have read. She put tons of amounts of awesome into this book. I loved how her characters emotions where very clear, and that they were so well portrayed. So, I mean, if you want to read something unbelievable awesome, and you are a teen who enjoys reading Young Adult books than you should totally read this!

Death by Latte by Linda Gerber

The second book to the Death by... series.


It was only a few weeks ago that Aphra Connolly’s life changed completely. She had been living a quiet existence on her father’s secluded island resort, until Seth Mulo turned up and stole her heart . . . and provided information that led her to find her mom in Seattle. But the reunion isn’t quite what she expected. Aphra’s mom, Natalie, doesn’t seem happy to see Aphra, and Natalie’s boyfriend, Joe, insists that Aphra go home. Even worse, Seth shows up, only to ask her to return the ring he gave her the previous summer. At least Natalie’s hunky neighbor is sympathetic. But when Joe is found dead at a nearby coffee shop, Aphra discovers her whole trip to Seattle has been based on a lie. And now someone just might be trying to kill her. . . .


I don't really know how to explain my feelings about this book. It was very well written, and had lots of spunk. I can't wait for the third book in this series. However, I enjoyed the first book better.

Bloom by Elizabeth Scott

This book is amazing!


Lauren has a good life: decent grades, great friends, and a boyfriend every girl wants. So why is she so unhappy?

It takes the arrival of Evan Kirkland for Lauren to figure out the answer: she's been holding back. She's been denying herself a bunch of things (like sex) because staying with her loyal and gorgeous boyfriend, Dave, is the "right" thing to do. After all, who would give up the perfect guy?

But as Dave starts talking more and more about their life together, planning a future Lauren simply can't see herself in-- and as Lauren's craving for Evan, and moreover, who she is with Evan becomes all the more fierce--Lauren realizes she needs to make a choice...before one is made for her.



So, I have been trying to find this book ever since I heard how good it was. And yesterday when I was at the library; I saw it! So last night (at about 12 midnight) before I went to bed, I decided to start reading it. I figured I would read it. I thought I would read until about chapter 3; my how I was wrong. I couldn't stop reading. The next time I looked up, it was 1 in the morning. I loved this book so much. It was amazing. This is the first of Elizabeth Scott's books that I have read, it made me want to read every one of her other books. So, I recommend this books to any Young Adult book fan. It was awesome, amazing, and a bunch of other good adjectives!

I've been interviewed!

So, yea, to see it click here.

Hey Everyone!

Hey everyone,
Sorry. There will be no reviews today. I was at the library more of the day; working on projects. Once I get more batteries for me camera, I will make an In My Mailbox video.
Also:
Though I have a lot of books checked out from the library, and a lot on hold. Can you all please give me some book suggestions? I need good books to read when I'm done with the ones I have. Which will be soon. So...yea... I would appreciate it!


Thanks!
Bye!

Wow it is Bright Here, or Oh My How I Love CA!

So,
It is sunny here. Normally I don't like hot and humid weather, but it is beautiful right now! It isn't that hot and there is a slight breeze. These days are very rare.

You know those days where everything feels perfect? This is one of them.

Sorry if I am kind of gloating. I just love this weather, it makes me happy. I will try to get pictures to post; sorry if I don't.

Now, I am going to go sit in my front yard and read my book!

See y'all later!


PS- Expect more reviews really soon! I have finished the books, I just need to write the reviews.

PPS- BYE!

Death by Bikini by Linda Gerber

This was a very nice book.


Aphra Behn Connolly has the type of life most teenage girls envy. She lives on a remote tropical island and spends most of her time eavesdropping on the rich and famous. The problem is that her family's resort allows few opportunities for her to make friends - much less to meet cute boys. So when a smoldering Seth Mulo arrives with his parents, she's immediately drawn to him. Sure, he's a little bit guarded, and sure his parents are rather cold, and okay he won't say a word about his past, but their chemistry is undeniable. Then a famous rock star's girlfriend turns up dead on the beach - strangled by her own bikini top - and alarm bells sound. Is it too great a coincidence that Seth's family turned up just one day before a murder? As the plot thickens, Aphra finds that danger lurks behind even the most unexpected of faces...



Ok, I kept getting mad at myself because I had heard how good this series was, and I still hadn't read it. So, I finally checked it out at the library; and let's just say...I read it in one sitting. I don't usually enjoy mysteries; but I enjoyed this a lot. Linda Gerber, has a talent for writing mysteries, I'll tell you that, It isn't the best book I have ever read, but it was a very nice read. I recommend this to young adults who enjoy mysteries.

The Dust of 100 Dogs by A.S. King

Wow...

In the late seventeenth century, famed teenage pirate Emer Morrisey was on the cusp of escaping pirate life with her one true love and unfathomable riches when she was slain and cursed with the dust of one hundred dogs, dooming her to one hundred lives as a dog before returning to a human body-with her memories intact. Now she's a contemporary American teenager and all she needs is a shovel and a ride to Jamaica.


I really don't know what to think of this book. I have never read or seen anything like it. I'm not normally into this kind of book, but this was really interesting. I mean, though there is a lot of books in the Young Adult world, you don't come across a pirate one a lot. Some things I didn't like about this novel was that it changed from Emer's past life and her teenage life. I found that confusing. If I were to choose which point of view the book should have been written in, I would choose the present-day teenager (with hints of her past lives). However, I liked how this book was different. Unlike a lot of books, this one didn't have the same plot as other books. Yes, it had teen angst and stuff in it, but isn't that one of the things that make's most Young Adult books interesting, and able to go into the Young Adult category? I think A.S. King did a wonderful job writing this book!

Fade by Lisa McMann

This book was beyond brilliant.

For Janie and Cabel, real life is getting tougher than the dreams. They're just trying to carve out a little (secret) time together, but no such luck.

Disturbing things are happening at Fieldridge High, yet nobody's talking. When Janie taps into a classmate's violent nightmares, the case finally breaks open -- but nothing goes as planned. Not even close. Janie's in way over her head, and Cabe's shocking behavior has grave consequences for them both.

Worse yet, Janie learns the truth about herself and her ability -- and it's bleak. Seriously, brutally bleak. Not only is her fate as a dream catcher sealed, but what's to come is way darker than she'd feared....



Ok, so as most of you know; I went to a Lisa McMann books signing a couple weeks ago. I read this book a month or two ago, and I thought it was time to review it. The first book in this series was excellent, and this book was even better. Lisa McMann is a very smart writer, and she writes her characters well. The relationship between each character is portrayed in an awesome way. When you read it, you can really feel the frustration and tension that Janie had towards her mother. And, the sweet relationship that Janie has with Cable counter-balances her feelings toward her mother.

So, this books is beyond good, some people may not like it, but I do. I can't wait for the third book in the trilogy!

Two-Way Street by Lauren Barnholdt

This was a very nice book.


This is Jordan and Courtney, totally in love. Sure, they were an unlikely high school couple. But they clicked; it worked. They're even going to the same college, and driving cross-country together for orientation.

Then Jordan dumps Courtney -- for a girl he met on the Internet.

It's too late to change plans, so the road trip is on. Courtney's heartbroken, but figures she can tough it out for a few days. La la la -- this is Courtney pretending not to care.

But in a strange twist, Jordan cares. A lot.

Turns out, he's got a secret or two that he's not telling Courtney. And it has everything to do with why they broke up, why they can't get back together, and how, in spite of it all, this couple is destined for each other.


This was a very whimsical novel. I loved how it had the story from different perspectives. I also enjoyed how it alternated between the present day and before present day; so you could understand the story more. And, to me; the author seemed to have a firm grasp on what her characters are thinking. I'm not saying that I loved this novel; but I am saying that I enjoyed the way it was written and I could potentially re-read it in the future.

My Trip!

So...yea... I went on a trip earlier this week. And, I thought I would tell you how it was.

I didn't get any pictures, because I accidentally left my camera at home. BUT, I do know how to explain how it looked. Imagine this:

The place where we camped looked exactly like the forest in the movie Twilight. It was absolutely beautiful.

So, now I would like to tell you some of the good things and bad things about this trip. So here you go:

Good- On this trip, people normally hike a lot. But, this time, we only had to hike 3 times.

Bad- The hiked that we DID to were pretty hard,

Good- Where we stayed was beautiful.

Bad- It rained a lot, and my tent flooded.

Good- I learned a lot.


So, those were some of the pro's and con's of my trip. Sorry for the lack of reviews recently, but, it is Spring Break and I plan on sleeping, reading, watching TV, and reviewing. So, expect more reviews!


Bye Everyone!

How They Met and Other Stories by David Levithan

Let me start off by saying that David Levithan is a brilliant genius. I know some people may disagree, but, let's face it...the man is awesome.

This book is an anthology of 18 stories that David Levithan wrote about love. All of these stories were very well written and contained very thoughtful writing. Some people may dislike David Levithan's books for various reasons, but if you look into them thoughtfully you will see that they are smart, witty, and really wonderful books. So, I say; David Levithan is wonderful, and every teen should read at least one book by him.

David Levithan has written such books as; Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist, Wide Awake, Boy Meets Boy, Marly's Ghost, and more.

An Interview with Melissa Kantor

1. How did you first get the idea for The Breakup Bible?

I actually got the idea from my editor and friend, who watched me go through a LOT of breakups. She and I were having lunch and talking about my plans for my next book (I'd just scrapped an idea I'd been working on for a while). I REALLY owe her--by the time I left the lunch, I had an idea, by the time I got on the subway, I'd thought of a title, and by the time I was home, I had a plot. The book really seemed to write itself.

2. Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?

Write a book you would want to read.

3. Who are some of your favorite Young Adult authors?

If we're talking Old School, my favorites are Norma Klein first and then Judy Blume. More recently, I just finished "The Hunger Games" and LOOOOVED it. Wow! And I love Rachel Cohn's "Gingerbread" and there's a book called "Dairy Queen" that I couldn't put down. And I devoured the Twilight series. Yum.

4. When did you first know you wanted to become a writer?

Even as a kid I wanted to write--I loved creative writing time in school. Though I later pursued other interests (in college I majored in political science and I went on to become an English teacher), I never stopped writing stories in my head.

5. Why did you choose to write YA Fiction?

Helen (my friend/editor with the idea for The Breakup Bible) was editing YA fiction and she was on me for years to write a YA novel. Now that I've written a few, I cannot imagine writing for adults. I think the lives of even the most average teenagers are just so intense. It's hard to duplicate that in the adult world. Like, if a grownup worked with someone she used to go out with and couldn't deal, I'd tell her to look for another job. But what can you do if you're a teenager and your ex-boyfriend is a fellow editor of the school paper--look for another school? If only.

6. What was it like finding out your first book was going to be published?

OMG!!! I was beyond psyched.

7. Do you have a special place where you do all of your writing?

It used to be cocobar in Park Slope, but now it's a cafe near my new house in Brooklyn.

8. Did you have any say on what the cover of The Breakup Bible looked like? Do you like it? If you could, would you change it?

I love it--I think the designers at Hyperion are so cool. There was an earlier cover that I didn't like, but they changed it. I know some people think it's too pink, but I like that the cover of the real book mimics the cover of Dr. Emerson's book.

9. If you could have any other profession, besides being an author, what would you choose to be?

Well, I'm an English teacher and I think that's the other greatest job in the universe.

10. Is there anything you would like to add?

I have a new book coming out in May called "Girlfriend Material." Look for chapter one on my website, melissakantor.com soon. And keep your eyes open for "Invisible I," which is Book One of The Amanda Project.



I would like to say thanks to Melissa Kantor for doing this lovely interview with me.

The Breakup Bible by Melissa Kantor

This was a very nice book. I just randomely picked it off of my libraries shelf, and I loved it.


Jen Lewis is having a great junior year. She is the features editor of the school paper, and she's dating Max Brown, the paper's editor-in-chief. Everything is perfect-that is, until Max says, "Maybe it would be better if we were just friends." In shock and total denial, Jen wonders how she is going to deal with the pain of seeing Max in school every day. Her misery only intensifies when her grandmother gives her a book that she heard about on the radio. Dr. Emerson's The Breakup Bible claims that "there's no reason a woman can't get over a breakup very quickly if she'll just follow a few basic commandments." Jen is doubtful. What does Dr. Emerson know about her and Max?


This was a very clever book. This was one of the books that got me out of one of my reading lulls. Despite the bubblegum-pink color or the cover, this novel was slightly serious. It was a very easy and light read. This was the first book by Melissa Kantor that I have read, and it made me want to read more. If you want a nice book to read, I recommend this book.

Day 9 of BEDA

So,
I may be back from my trip already, but I am writing this on Monday.
So...yea...actual posts coming soon considering tomorrow (Friday) is the start of my Spring Break!

BYE!

Day 8 of BEDA

Today is Wednesday (actually it's Monday).
So, time for some more questions...
If you have a blog, why did you make it?
What is your favorite show?
Favorite music?

That's all for today!

BYE

Day 7 of BEDA

Hey,
So, it is actually Monday, and I am currently (I mean today, Tuesday). At Point Reyes. How are you all doing? What's new in your lives? Can you answer these in the comments?

Thanks!

BYE!

Day 6 of BEDA

Hey,
I am talking to Hope on AIM right now...Hope is awesome.
I recorded a Youtube video; but I don't know when I will be able to upload it...
My next two or three posts will be pre-written.

BYE!

Day 5 of BEDA

Hey Everyone!
I don't really have much to day today...ummm...
I'm watching the Parent Trap?!
I started my new novel! It's still in the works and I have written the Prologue and part of the first chapter.
I'm going on a fieldtrip on Tuesday. It will be from Tuesday until Thursday. So, all the posts that will be coming up, will be pre-written.
Sorry this is so short. I am off to go straighten my hair!

Day 4 of BEDA or Lisa McMann Book Signing

Sorry, I couldn't get any video's of the book signing, and I only have one picture, which is here:




I realize that I'm not smiling, but I thought I was. I had a really awesome time, and Lisa McMann; not only is a great writer, but is also a great public speaker. So, kudos to her.

BYE!

Books Read in March

I have done better than I did in February, which is good!

1. Shabanu:Daughter of the Wind by Suzanne Fisher Staples
2. Marked by PC Cast and Kristin Cast
3. Betrayed by PC Cast and Kristin Cast
4. Emily Dickinson: Selected Poems
5. Alfred Lord Tennyson: Selected Poems
6. Chosen by PC Cast and Kristin Cast
7. Untamed by PC Cast and Kristin Cast
8. Sweethearts by Sara Zarr
9. Hunted by PC Cast and Kristin Cast
10. FADE by Lisa McMann
11. The Breakup Bible by Melissa Kantor
12. How They Met and Other Stories by David Levithan
13. Marly's Ghost by David Levithan

Day 3 of BEDA

So,
It's late...I'm tired...I'm about to finish a book...but GUESS WHAT?

I got eight books today! Yay!

I got:

-Death by Bikini by Linda Gerber
-Death by Latte by Linda Gerber
-Gilmore Girls TV to Book adaptations
-Gingerbread by Rachel Cohn
-Looking for Alaska by John Green (my second copy)
-The Lighting Thief by Rick Riodan
-The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation: Volume 1: The Pox Party by M.T. Anderson
-Dust of 100 Dogs by A.S. King


So, those are the books I got today.
Hopefully, there will be a better post tomorrow. Considering there is only two hours left until it is tomorrow...hmmm...weird...

Day 2 on BEDA

SO, It's day two... I have a few things to tell you...

First:
As I mentioned in my previous post, I saw Lisa McMann last night...
One of the best nights ever! I have a picture, but it isn't uploaded yet; I will post it soon!


Second:
If you watch the vlogbrothers; you know what "Tiny Chickens" are and what they do to you. I have a case of the Tiny Chickens. If you don't know what they are, I will tell you. Tiny Chickens are the things that invade your brain and make it all congested. I have been coughing my brains out and blowing my nose like crazy! I will tell you one thing...
NOT FUN


Third:
The week after next is Spring-Freaking-Break ! Whoohoo! Of course, my time will be spent reading and blogging and watching movies/Youtube/Tv/etc.


So, that's day two! BYE!

Blog Every Day in April!

So, I'm not going to be here for three days next week; but, I will still attempt to blog every day in April! I will conquer!
So, right now I want to talk about what I am doing tonight...
I am going to go to a book signing, I will be going to see Lisa McMann!

I will get my books signed, and Sarah's book signed!

SO, that's day one, I don't have much to type because I have been really busy.

BYE!