WE MADE IT!!

Just a little faith, trust and pixie dust; and we've made it a whole year! Isn't teamwork magical?

After such a busy year, I really don't see how I've read 52 books and not become a hermit. I am sure there were times when you feared for me along the journey. I must admit, I feared for myself here and there.

I worry I will break hearts with this next part; I will not be able to participate in the 2016 Annual Reading Challenge. There, I've said it. 

I know you have all been waiting for the first week of January when I would post the first book review of the year. Sadly, and not so, I have decided to spend my time in other ways, rather than just reading.
Oma believes there are more important things in life than reading. I made sure she knows that there are some more important things, but not many.

For those of you who haven't been following 100%, or have maybe got lost in the middle but found your way back; here is the list in full.

1. A book with a one-word title - Light by Michael Grant

2. A book from an author you love that you haven't read yet - The Blood of Olympus by Rick Riordan

3. A book set in the future - All These Things I've Done by Gabrielle Zevin

4. A book a friend recommended - hush, hush by Becca Fitzpatrick

5. A book by an author you've never read before - Prayers for the Stolen by Jennifer Clement

6. A mystery or thriller - The Last Juror by John Grisham

7. A trilogy - The Kane Chronicles by Rick Riordan

8. A nonfiction book - The Treasures of William Shakespeare by Catherine M S Alexander

9. A book you can finish in a day -  Winnie-the-Pooh by A. A. Milne

10. A book at the bottom of your to-read list - The Fault in our Stars by John Green

11. A book with a number in the title - 1984 by George Orwell

12. A book with antonyms in the title - My Life in Black and White by Kim Izzo

13. A graphic novel - The Sky Goddesses of Dryden by Laura Konrad

14. A banned book - The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger

15. A book by a female author - Crescendo by Becca Fitzpatrick

16. A memoir - Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

17. A book more than 100 years old - Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll

18. A Pulitzer Prize-winning book - The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway

19. A book based on or turned into a TV show - Hemlock Grove by Brian McGreevy

20. A book that made you cry - We Were Liars by E. Lockhart

21. A book by an author with your same initials - Medicine River by Thomas King

22. A book published this year - Saint Anything by Sarah Dessen

23. A book based on a true story - Freedom Writers Diary

24. A book with a colour in the title - Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss

25. A book with nonhuman characters - Silence by Becca Fitzpatrick

26. A book that was originally written in a different language - Suite Francaise by Irene Nemirovsky

27. A book with a love triangle - The Host by Stephanie Meyer

28. A book of short stories - The Edge of Spider-Verse

29. A book from your childhood - Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus by Barbara Park

30. A funny book - Alice in tumblr-land by Tim Manley

31. A book you started but never finished - The Fairy Tales of the Grimm Brothers

32. A book that scares you - Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

33. A popular author`s first book - Harry Potter and the Philosopher`s Stone by J.K. Rowling

34. A classic romance - Persuasion by Jane Austen

35. A book set in a different country - Finale by Becca Fitzpatrick

36. A play - The Tempest by William Shakespeare

37. A book you own but have never read - The Infinite Sea by Rick Yancy

38. A book that became a movie - Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson

39. A book by an author from your hometown - Lorelai, You'll Never Die by Laura Konrad

40. A book recommended by your sister - Crazy Love by Francis Chan

41. A book set in high school - Dreamland by Sarah Dessen

42. A book you pre-ordered - The Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan

43. A book with magic - Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling

44. A book set somewhere you've always wanted to visit - Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling

45. A book your mom loves - The Villa by Nora Roberts

46. The largest book you own - Percy Jackson's Greek Heroes by Rick Riordan

47. A book with more than 500 pages - Afterworlds by Scott Westerfeld

48. A book that came out the year you were born - Junie B. Jones and some Sneaky Peeky Spying by Barbara Park

49. A book written by someone under the age of 30 - The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

50. A book set during Christmas - A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

Now, as we close off another year, let's remember to continue reading in the future. While reading 52 books in one year may take a lot of time and dedication, reading one a month hardly takes any amount of brain power.

If you possibly feel as though I am abandoning you next year, there is a way that you can continue with the reading challenges. Visit this website to see what your future reading could look like: http://www.popsugar.com/love/Reading-Challenge-2016-39126431

Much love, this is t-bear signing off

The Last Melon

Book 50 - A book set during Christmas

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

This may have been the first book that I ever completely decided on, when I was first looking through the different challenges. Many challenges made room for creative thinking, so I had a large amount of books to choose from.

As I read this particular story every year at this time, I had already decided that this would be the final book in the challenge. And what a fitting way to conclude.

My copy of the story is bound in red and boasts, not just, A Christmas Carol, but And Other Stories, as well. This caused my family members some confusion when I put the string at the end of this story and proclaimed it finished. Don't worry, I set them all straight.

If you have never heard this delightful tale before, allow me to synoysis it for you.

Mr. Scrooge, a grumpy old humbug, is sitting in all his wealth and unhappiness on Christmas Eve, when he is greeted by the ghost of his former business partner, Mr. Marley.The ghost of Mr. Marley tells Mr. Scrooge that he will be visited by three more ghosts in the next three nights; the Ghost of Christmas Past, the Ghost of Christmas Present, and the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come.

Thus begins the journey of Mr. Scrooge realizing what is so important about having Christmas spirit, and finding out what will happen if he continues down his current path of grouchiness.  

Although the story doesn't give a lot of credit to the fact that Christ is the reason for the season, there are so many good lessons to be learned from Mr. Scrooge's travels with the spirits.

You may think that it sounds wonderful, but feel rather discouraged with the idea that Charles Dickens wrote it. Some people seem to think that he didn't even write in English.

Have no fear, the story is but 87 pages long (in my book) and doesn't require a large amount of translating. Though I may be a bit biased, seeing as I am more familiar with his writing style.

If you have been following me as I travel through this book challenge, then you have five days to complete this masterpiece to be within the year. Good luck!

 

We made it! this is t-bear signing off

A Little Party Never Killed Nobody

Book 49 - A book written by someone under 30

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Once again, I took to my book shelves to find a novel that would perfectly fit the description. Determined to find such a one, I searched through all the books that I haven't already read this year to find the perfect match. 

I interpreted the challenge to mean that the author wrote the novel when they were below that age, not that they are below that age at the present moment.

I was just about to give up hope, when my eyes fell upon this particular treasure; sitting on the shelf of my Hoosier cabinet. How could I have forgotten it in all it's glory?

I quickly took to the Internet to make sure that Mr. Fitzgerald was within the prescribed age when he wrote the novel. To my surprise, and relief, he was at the age of 29 when this fine piece of work was published. 

If you haven't ever read the novel, but have taken the time to view what Hollywood has put together, then you will not be far off. As with any novel, there are parts which have been left out of the film, however; there isn't much to be disputed. Often I find myself leaving the cinema with a completely different story in my head, after seeing a book-to-movie film. I am quite pleased to say that Hollywood has done something correct in the workings of this particular scenario.

If you have never read this novel and are one to dream of what life was like in the early 1900s, then you should probably go out and get yourself a copy to enjoy. A majority of the novel involves the frivolity of the 1920s in the back lands of Long Island, New York. Your New Years Eve party doesn't have anything on their unnecessary wildness. 

I have often wondered at life in such a time, but then I have also spent a lot of hours with Downton Abbey. Though that was in England, there is still something so magical about the past, even if we'd all rather it stay there. 

One for the money, this is t-bear signing off

It's easy when the choice is solid

Book 48 - A book that came out the year you were born

Junie B. Jones and some Sneaky Peeky Spying by Barbara Park

Many of you may look at this book choice and decide that I have turned to ease rather than difficulty. 

Let me tell you about the struggle that it was finding a book that came out in 1994. (I sometimes wonder if the only great thing that happened that year was me...)

Mother can also tell you about the struggle that I had, as she was in the living room when the struggles became huffs and puffs. 

After I had flipped through ever single children's book that we have on our shelf in the living room, (or maybe Moma just got tired of all the huffing and puffing), Moma took out her mobile device and searched the Google for books that were published in 1994. 

When what to our wondering eyes should appear, but a lovely book about Junie B. Jones. I knew for a fact that I had four of her tales on my bookshelf, but I wasn't sure if this book would be amongst them. 

Here, I thought I had searched through my entire collection and hadn't found anything. Apparently, I didn't look hard enough. 

I took the book to a lovely neighbourhood bakery and sat for my lunch hour to enjoy my readings. Unfortunately, my readings were interrupted by the minute hand approaching the ten. With only three chapters left, I packed up my things and proceeded back to work. 

Not to worry though, I was easily able to finish the reading within ten minutes after arriving to my bedroom after supper. Ease, and yet such a struggle.

I had to wonder at what the other customers at the lovely neighbourhood bakery thought of me as I sat with my little book, giggling. Though I try not to think about such things as I go about my awkward life. 

Phew, only two! this is t-bear signing off

It's harder than you think

Book 47 - A book with more than 500 pages

Afterworlds by Scott Westerfeld

599 pages, to be exact. Which means that I'm now briefly allowed to refer to myself as an overachiever. Look out world!

Let me tell you the spectacularness that is Afterworlds.

Now, I was already a large fan of Mr. Westerfeld before this novel became a thing. He is one of those authors that you just buy the next book he publishes, because you already know that it's going to be a wonderful experience reading all 599 pages within a week. (I hope you are all following the fact that I work 37.5 hours a week and was in Toronto all weekend. Yes, I can read 599 pages much faster than a week. Let's stick with the overachieving idea.)

This novel, is a novel within a novel. (Mr. Westerfeld must be taking a page from Mr. Shakespeare's book. Although in that case we'd be referring to a play.) 

In any case, this novel is based around Darcy who is writing a novel over the course of this novel. One chapter is Darcy and how her novel came to be, the next chapter is the said novel. This continues back and forth through the 599 pages until the very lovely set-up-for-a-sequel ending. Are we complaining? Nope!

Darcy, being the author of the novel, writes about a character named Lizzie. Now, if you have ever even lived upon this earth, then you will know that these two characters are the loveliest of lovers brought about by our dearest, Jane Austen. Let me tell you the shock that Darcy has when she realizes the connection she has created between her name and her characters'. This is something that I love about writing. There is so much room for little clues to be dropped about, just waiting for someone to pick them up. 

Throughout the entire novel, I felt such a connection between myself and Darcy. She is a young author, embarking on the journey that is her first published work. As I have not come to such an achievement in my twenty-one years, I can't entirely relate. Nonetheless, I feel that Darcy and I could have spent a lot more time together. 

Something that I kept thinking about as I traveled from 1 to 599, was that Mr. Westerfeld got to create two lovely intertwined stories within the same hard covers. He got to connect a "real" and a fictional life to make so much more out of the fantastic world that is writing. 

I don't have many other thoughts about the novel, other than the fact that I was right there the whole time. Right in that novel's face. I don't know how I'm suppose to continue on with my life at the moment. I sure hope that I figure it out before work tomorrow morning. 

3 to go! This is t-bear signing off

A hard-to-hold sort of reading

Book 46 - The largest book you own

Percy Jackson's Greek Heroes by Rick Riordan (Illustrated by John Rocco)

In its piddly 387 pages, you may be wondering how this could possibly be the largest book I own; as we all know Les Miserable is part of my collection. 

Today, we choose to look beyond height, to the factors of length and width. 

This book is about 2 Les Mis' long by 2 Les Mis' wide. That is, of course, referring to the copy of Les Mis that I own. (Your estimate may differ slightly depending on the size of your copy.)

If you would be so kind as to turn back and read a few of my posts from the past year, you will note that Uncle Rick is a reoccurring author; and will be sticking around. Please don't ruin a good thing.

I can't remember if I've written about the similar book by Uncle Rick, Percy Jackson's Greek Gods. This one is the same thing, only with heroes instead of gods.

In any case, this book is quite spectacular. Though I'm sure there are areas of each heroes story that are rather fictional, I do believe that I now have a good understanding of the Greek heroes lives. 

Many of them were much more interested in pillaging and plundering than anything else, but they were each able to show some hero-ness at some point in their stories. 

For most of the heroes stories, it seemed like if their family hadn't been destroyed, accidentally or otherwise, they really didn't have a standing as a hero. 

More often then not, there was a king whose kingdom needed to be overthrown by a hero. The one and only way for the hero to gain that kingship was to show themselves with a quest. If only showing worthiness was so easy in today's world. I think I could do a decent job questing. 

The stories were, at times, so exciting that I didn't even notice how long I had been perched upon the island stool. Yes, my back was sore the next morning. Yes, it was worth it.

I have to say, I wouldn't recommend reading such a large book all the time; it creates difficulty when trying to  hold the book for a long period of time.

1 down, 4 to go, this is t-bear signing off

Age before me, I suppose

Book 45 - A book your mom loves

The Villa by Nora Roberts

Let's start by discussing the things that we assumed, and then move onto those that were, almost, tear-shocking.

Nora Roberts only writes novels about romance. People, though there was romance within the novel, there was so much more to the story.

Moma's taste in novels is sub-par. Furthermore, we must refrain from such comments as she has now risen in my books.

This book won't set me back in my challenge. 

Now to those things that brought a hand to my mouth and almost made me drop the novel. 

The story line was full of devious secreters and all their lying plots. The only trouble was picking them out of the circle that was the main characters' prestigious family. Yes, you will be surprised by the ending. I didn't see it coming and, after further investigation, neither did Moma. Also, I ended up hanging off a few cliffs. (That did nothing to my already surprised state.) 

This whole time I just assumed that romance novels were nothing but romance, and therefore; couldn't possibly hold a place on my bookshelf.

The pages have turned.

Finally, you can count as well as I can. There are five books left to read, and only four weeks left in the year. I'd also like to mention that I may never get through if people continue in this festive mood of planning parties and get-togethers. (I say that with the utmost quality of love.)

Happy reading! this is t-bear signing off

The Hairy Dog Father

Book 44 - A book set somewhere you've always wanted to visit

 

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling

 

You may look at the challenge and argue that the place I have chosen is not real, and therefore; I should disqualify myself immediately.

For those of you out there who are readers, you will understand. Visiting the fantastical places that I have read about in books is definitely not an "out there" desire.

I can't even count the number of years where I have sat around on September 1st wishing that I were on the Hogwarts Express.

Although, I would love to someday visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando, it is really just a representation of the movies. The books, as we all know, are just so much better.

If I had to choose my favorite film of the Harry Potter eight, I would have to say that the third rises above.

I loved the emotion of the seventh duo, and the newness of the first tale; but I just can't think about the series without that glorious Prisoner of Azkaban.

It may have something to do with the new Dumbledore or maybe the different set. No matter the reason, something fantastical is the film Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.

Lessons from the novel include;

- Hippogriff riding

- Patronus casting (If you don't know what that is, read this novel. The movie questions our belief in alien invasion)

- Don't befriend strange rats just because a Weasley says so

- Hogsmeade really isn't worth sneaking out for

- Black dogs maybe aren't as terrifying as Professor Trelawney makes them out to be

- Maps are sometimes easily concealed

 

Now let's not bring ourselves down by continuing too far with this idea of visiting Hogwarts. After all, we do have reality to look forward to; and that's not always a nice cup of chocolatey chai tea.

 

Farewell for now, this is t-bear signing off

The Chamber Isn't Always Secret

Book 43 - A book with magic

 

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling

 

There is a saying about starting things and never finishing them.

I imagine if you took a stroll through the life of a middle aged man, you would encounter many projects that have been started and never finished.

On the other side of the world, if your 21 year old self claims to have OCD and can't start something without seeing the last something through; then you will understand why I have chosen to proceed in such a fashion.

If you will turn your attention back to the 33rd challenge, you will note that I have, once again, read a chapter from the library of Ms. Rowling.

Harry Potter is one of those series' that should be started at the beginning, and then read all the way through to the wonderfully tragic ending of the seventh and final novel. (You will note that this is not the case for me, and it saddens me greatly.)

As I read the first novel some weeks ago, I felt it was high time I returned to the beautiful pages. Unfortunately, I will not be able to proceed any further than the third novel as the remaining four do not fit into my challenge criteria. (Have no fear, I have plans to continue the party in the new year.)

Enough about me, let's turn our minds to the story...

As you won't recall, (unless you are following me in this book challenge and/or have recently read the first novel) we left Harry on his way back to the Dursley's for the summer break. He wasn't happy about it, but he took with him the joyful idea that he would be spending part of the summer at the home of the Weasley's. Don't worry, he is not denied that joy.

As Harry returns to Hogwarts for his second year, he is challenged by some rather large creatures. (Pun entirely intended.)

With the presence of Gilderoy Lockhart, hearing voices in his head, the opening of the Chamber of Secrets and the sad idea that Hogwarts may have to be closed forever; we witness a threatening of the innocence of our dear 12 year old Harry.

If you are also feeling Harry Potter deprived, tune in next time to hear about the Prisoner of Azkaban!

 

Much love, this is t-bear signing off

North Dogs

Book 42 - A book you pre-ordered

Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard: The Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan

If you know me at all, then I don't think you need to question why I pre-ordered this novel.

Months ago, while browsing social media, I came upon the cover of this novel and had to check into it. Much to my delight, this novel is the debarkation of a new series; written by our dear Uncle Rick.

I am often concerned about pre-ordering books because I don't know if I will actually enjoy the novel. This is not the case with Uncle Rick. He wouldn't even need to release the name and I would buy the novel.

As you may remember, the trio of novels that I read for the seventh challenge were about Egyptian gods. If we just back up a little further to the second challenge, you will note that that novel was about Roman and Greek gods.

Well, this challenge breaks away from both of those series', however; you will take note of the lovely addition of a beloved female character from the Greek and Roman series'. (I guess he just couldn't help including her.)

Anywho, this novel is about Norse gods (think Odin, Thor, Loki, etc.), however; we aren't talking Hollywood altered story lines. This is the real deal. 

First of all, *spoileralert* (though you will find this out in the first few chapters), the main character dies and is sent to live in Valhalla which is one of the afterlife places to live. He ends up questing with a Valkyrie, a dwarf and an elf, which is a little different from the usual demigod group of questers.

Second, the story doesn't just take place in our world, there are nine worlds, which means that the characters do a little world jumping during their journey. The strangest idea is picturing them climbing the massive World Tree.

Lastly, if you doubted that Uncle Rick would add his usual sarcasm, you will be nicely surprised. The main character shares all of that wonderful sass that just reminds me so much of dear Percy Jackson.

Now, this is normally the part where I would strongly suggest that you read the novel, because it's just such a wonderfully written tale; but I think I'm a bit biased in that area. I can say that if you have read one of Uncle Rick's novels before and enjoyed it, then you will enjoy this piece of awesome.

Winter is coming, this is t-bear signing off

Sarah's Realities

Book 41 - A book set in high school

Dreamland by Sarah Dessen

Once again, we are privy to the wonderful thoughts of dear Sarah Dessen. 

For those of you who don't recall who Sarah Dessen is, return to Book 22; she is all over that book.

Though I have read this novel before, I haven't ever read it again.

I found that the harshness of the main character's reality makes it hard to put the novel down. With so many of Sarah's novels, I find that the experiences of the characters are so very realistic. I think this is one of the reasons that I choose to re-read her novels so very often.

Without spoiling the story;

We start the journey with sixteen year old, Caitlin, whose family has just learned that their beloved sister/daughter, Cassandra, has run away from home at the age of eighteen. 

As most people have difficulties dealing with being abandoned, Caitlin strives to find a place in her parents' lives after years of feeling overshadowed by her sister. She soon realizes that having all the attention from her parents is not all it's cracked up to be. 

With the addition of sudden telephone calls from Cassandra, the parent's begin to pay less attention to Caitlin. This is where the hard to read part comes in.

Our dear main character finds herself in love and being mentally and physically abused by the person she loves. She knows that what is happening to her is wrong, yet she still hangs on to the relationship because she fears what her life would be like without it.

The entire novel is not a sad tale, but I do find that it is difficult to read at times. You will be glad to know that our dear main character is able to find a happy ending, in her own way.

I do recommend reading this novel. The story is in no way easy to read, but the realness of the character's reactions and feelings are quite powerful to behold. Though this is only my second time reading this novel, I still feel that it is one of my favourites.

Right on schedule, this is t-bear signing off

Insane Affection

Book 40 - a book recommended by your sister

Crazy Love by Francis Chan

It's kind of funny actually.
A while back my dearest sister told me about this book that I had to read; but at the time I was rather June deep in the 2015 Book Challenge. I forgot that the book was even mentioned and moved along with my life.
Two or three weeks ago, my dearest sister mentioned the book again. She used phrases like, "you have to read this book!" and "it's a life changer!"
(We're almost to the funny part.)
I was being all cooperative and nicely put the book on the tippy top of the stack that currently resides on my writing desk. I must profess that I fully had all intentions of reading the book. I feel I have to say this as it appeared almost as though I were just going along with her ruse; at the time of the placing on the tippy top of the stack.
(This is where the funny part occurs.)
I carefully (the only adjective one should ever use when the conversation involves the handling of books) took the book from my dearest sister and placed it upon the tippy top of the stack which resides on my writing desk. When what to my obviously unprepared ears should be spoken, but; "just give it back to me when you are done, because I haven't read it yet."
Now I'm going to give you a little space to digest that.

Here I was believing that my dearest sister had read the book before and that I was receiving a most accurate review; directly from a brain who'd taken the words right off the page. Silly me.
As it has come to my attention that my dearest sister has never read this book before, I have taken it upon myself to give her an honest report. I feel it is my duty, as her dearest sister.

Dear Squid:

When I first began the journey that is this book, I felt that Mr. Chan was attempting to communicate with non-believers or beginner believers. Now I don't consider myself to be either of those and yet I still learned so much about what it means to be a Christian. 

Many of the themes have been studied and preached upon so many times that they are becoming almost tiring. When I was reading this book though, I was able to read the themes in a different light; which has helped the ideas to stick in my brain. There have been many events and specific moments over the past week where I have been able to take something that I read in this book and transfer it into my life or that of another.
I loved it.  I don't just mean the words. If you took a before and after of the physical book, it looks much more loved now. The pages have all been flipped through and viewed and the corners are slightly bent from being in a backpack rather often.

Though I will not, under any circumstances, write in a printed work of art; you will find stickies within the pages where I felt comment was needed. This appeared to be a solid alternative to defacing the beautiful pages.
You used the term "life changer". I wouldn't say that my life was completely turned upside down, but I am now much more conscious of certain aspects of my life. 

In conclusion, I must say a thank you for recommending this book, even if you haven't read it yet.

Much love, 

t-bear

Apocalyptic even without the zombies.

Book 39 - A book by an author from your hometown

Lorelai, You'll Never Die by Laura Konrad

You may be questioning the validity of this challenge as it is not actually named in the 2015 Book Challenge that I found on Pinterest. I have observed that there are a few challenges that would be rather difficult to fulfill and therefore have taken it upon myself to change them. Don't worry, the number of books to read and the time in which to read them have not changed.

This particular challenge has been altered from "A book that takes place in your hometown". As you may be able to imagine, coming from a small town and all, this is a very challenging challenge to behold. Though I do suppose I could have written something based in my hometown, however; I have been operating upon the basis that the books read during the challenge are published works. 

For many people it may be difficult to find published works of an author from their hometown, but I am rather in luck in such a situation.

If you would be so kind as to travel back in time with me to April 5, 2015; you will notice that the author of this novel is the very same author of the story that is Sky Goddesses of Dryden Vols. 1-4. 

One thing you may want to know before embarking on the journey that is this novel, is that it is futuristic and apocalyptic and wonderfully science fictiony. For me, this is rather a fantastic way to begin a novel journey, however; I understand that some do not feel the same way, *coughcough* Moma. I guess some people just don't know what good book genres are.

Anywho, though this novel is subtitled 25 Tales of the Apocalypse, the story flows from one tale to the next without much need to stop and observe ones surroundings. That being said, I spent one evening and then an afternoon with this novel because I just couldn't put it down. 

Now I'm not usually the kind to sit and read a majority of a book in one afternoon, but sometimes we must take the necessary steps to satisfy the universe. 

But seriously, the story picked me right up off my chaise and moved me into a world of death, destruction and "love" (you'll have to read it to understand the quotation marks). 

I embarked on this journey with the sole purpose of reading this novel because I felt that I owed it to Laura to read her published work of art. Little did I know that I would be caught in a world that doesn't exist but feels so very real when stuck between its pages.

I would suggest that you pick yourself up from this page, go right over to Amazon.ca and purchase a copy for your library. You may think I'm being biased or maybe borderline nepotistic, but I actually really love this novel.

In other news, asserting ones dominance is much more effective when driving sans muffler.

Stay golden, this is t-bear signing off

Fortunate Land Mass

Book 38 - A book that became a movie

Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson

A couple weeks ago, I took a tour through the book area in our local Value Village. I wasn't looking for anything in particular, when I happened upon this delightful tale.

Rather than refer back to my lovely book challenge list, I decided to purchase the novel knowing that one day I would eventually read it; book challenge or not. Much to my enjoyment, I hadn't used this very challenge yet.

The movie to which I am referring to is not any ordinary Treasure Island, but rather the spectacular Muppet Treasure Island. Well done, Disney, I must say.

We could sit here and make a case that the movie is a wonderful example of how great Hollywood is at ruining good books; but you really can't go wrong with Muppet Treasure Island. I am quite leery about all those other Muppet movies they've been producing in the last few years, but this one is the creation of pros.

If you haven't already guessed, this novel is based around an island that is said to hold buried treasure. This treasure was hidden on the island by Cap'n Flint oh so many years ago.

The trouble all starts when an old drunkard of a pirate, Billy Bones, calls home an inn that Jim Hawkins (our dear narrator) and his mother own and operate. This old drunkard is handed a Black Spot by a blind pirate and soon after falls over dead. Jim retrieves a treasure map from Mr. Bones' garments and then begins the journey that will take him to Treasure Island and return him in much larger fortune.

As is always the case, the Disney movie had all the characters enjoy a happy ending, where the good guys won and the bad guys lost. The novel however, was rather full of murder and mutiny galore. If someone wasn't dying, was the chapter really worth reading? I say yes, but that's just one persons opinion. 

The movie also took on a somewhat musical element. During the hour and 3/4 length film, we are treated to many wonderful tunes brought to you straight from the mouths of the Muppets (and the humans). Now I generally love musicals so it wasn't difficult for me to rekindle the love that I had for this movie as a youngster. The score was also by Hanz Zimmer, how can you go wrong with that?

I can't say that this novel is one of my most favourite stories. If you have been relying upon the tale told in Muppet Treasure Island, you might want to consider reading this novel, because you are missing a lot of the story.

Seasons are a-changin', this is t-bear signing off

The Eternal Ocean

Book 37 - A book you own but have never read

The Infinite Sea by Rick Yancey

If you are a book lover, like myself, then you will have no trouble looking at your bookshelf and observing all the books that you own but have never read. Somethings I just sit and pass the time by looking at my bookshelf. People will look at you funny when you proclaim it in public. They obviously aren't book lovers. It must be hard for them.

With this novel (which is the sequel to The 5th Wave, a story that Hollywood has taken into its "care"); we are once again taken into an era where most of earth's population has been disposed of, and only few "humans" remain. 

Through the cold, pain, loneliness, and yes, love, the characters are taken on a journey of mind tricks and failed allegiances to the set-up-for-a-third-novel "happy" ending. I followed them the whole way, even when I regretted it, for my heart had trouble taking it in. 

It has been a rather long time since I read the first novel and I suppose I forgot how wonderfully the author describes every day emotions and actions.

I'll be putting these novels in the "you will want to read this again" section of my library. I guess it's a good thing that's the whole library!

this is t-bear signing off

Will the Temperature Shake?

Book 36 - A play

The Tempest by William Shakespeare

tempest [tem-pist]

noun

1. a violent windstorm, especially one with rain, hail or snow.

2. a violent commotion, disturbance, or tumult.

3. Propero, the right Duke of Milan.

Though I previously read that wonderful book on Will Shakes' life and works, I was not sure which category this play would fall under. As it turn out, it is a comedy. 

Remember in high school when you entered the English class and the teacher handed you a copy of one of Mr. Shakes' fine works of art, and you made a disgusted face and held the book like it were infected with the plague? Well, I would have to say that I started out with a similar opinion of the man; until I came to have a better understanding of the language. 

As a high school student I had some trouble deciphering the tongue better known as Shakespearish. This is one of the reasons that I was rather hesitant to pick up this particular book.

With little in my way, I began the tale of The Tempest and soon found out that I understood quite well what the characters were saying in their weird "English".

Assuming I read the story correctly, here is a brief account of the events:

As per usual, we find the trodden-on-family-member on an abandoned island (with his daughter), left to his own scheming. When what to his wondering eye's should appear, but a ship carrying the King, his son and many fancy pants fellows with names in high places. This is when the trodden-on-family-member takes his revenge with the assistance of a spirit. 

A little shipwreck, some invisible spirit spells and a few drunken fools bring the group together; right into the grasp of the trodden-on-family-member who feels it's time they recognized who he is and reinstate his place in society.

I'm not exactly sure what kind of humour Shakespeare was privy to when he wrote this play. I must say, there were no literal LOLs from me. 

Comedy, it may be; while misunderstanding, I probably am. 

this is t-bear signing off

The End

Book 35 - A book set in a different country

finale by Becca Fitzpatrick

You may have seen the title with annoyance, then moved onto the author only to close the browser. If you're still with me then I'm going to assume that you're okay with me talking about this series...again. 

I went with dear M and the sister to our nearest and dearest Chapters a couple weeks ago. "I had no intention of buying any books" those famous last words before a book lover enters a book store. Alas, I escaped with only three books and thoughts of many more. This book was one of them. 

Even though you are still with me, I don't pretend to assume that you are still excited about my current book choice. But, really, I had to finish the series. We all knew this was going to happen sooner or later. 

As I was getting low on challenges that would apply for this book, I picked this delightfully easy challenge. Not difficult to achieve on any given day. There are actually few times when I come upon a novel set in Canada. Am I maybe reading the wrong books as a citizen of the Great White North? We'll, come back to that later.

This conclusion to the series was a rather suspenseful one.

We have discussed the basic story line before so I'm sure you know that most of the characters are not human, including our protagonist. She is of superhuman abilities and if I'm being rather honest, annoyingly stubborn and jealous habits. 

The two reoccurring lovers are ever present in this installment and are again faced with problems that threaten to tear them apart forever. Don't worry, they were able to pull through till the end. 

After a battle as big as a cemetery which involved the deaths of a much loved character and a much hated character; all is put to right in the world and we can go home happy. The story ends with a *spoileralert* wedding. I didn't say whose. 

Though I was getting bored of the novel at one point, I was able to reenter into the story to enjoy the intensity that brought on the finale. (See what I did there?)

If you have come this far with me, why not finish the series? I did and look how productive that made my day!

this is t-bear signing off

PS - Don't be afraid of the new design. After all, seasons are changing!

Like Peer Pressure

Book 34 - A classic romance

Persuasion by Jane Austen

When the topic of classic romance is discussed, there is only one author that I think of; Jane Austen. So it is no surprise that I would choose one of her novels for this particular challenge.

For many years now I have been reading and rereading four of Jane's lovely creations. My favourite will always be Pride & Prejudice but I have a rather fondness for Persuasion. As I read Pride & Prejudice most recently, I felt that it would be rather wonderful to mix things up a little. 

If you take the time to sit and read Jane's novels you will start to notice common story lines. Though the characters are all different from book to book, the basic goings on are quite similar.

The story...

Anne Elliot, in her twenty-eighth year is not only unappreciated by her father and older sister, but she is growing older without a husband by her side. Frivolous spending on the part of her father forces the family to let the homestead and move to the south. Not wanting to leave, Anne stays behind with her younger sister who married into a family of young spirits and welcoming hearts.

While with her sister's family-in-law (if that's the correct term) she comes into contact with Captain Wentworth whom she had loved about ten years ago. Don't worry, the attachment was/is mutual.

As per usual, Father Elliot didn't approve when they met many years ago, which is the reason they aren't married already when the story takes place. 

After a few hundred pages of emotional struggles between Anne and Captain Wentworth, they are able to reestablish the never lost love and decide to get married. It only took the whole novel for this to unfold. Typical.

Some say that Jane's stories are hard to read because if the language but I rather adore the way that people talked back then. It's quite pleasing to the ear.

Only two books behind, this is t-bear signing off

A Truly Magical Novel

Book 33 - A popular author's first book

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone by J.K. Rowling

"...there will be books written about Harry - every child in our world will know his name!" - Albus Dumbledore

I feel this is a very excellent quote to use to describe such a series of novels, because isn't it true? I dare you to find a person who has never heard of the name Harry Potter. You could do it, but it would be difficult.

As I studied my book shelf for a novel to use for this challenge, I was delighted to have my eyes fall upon this particular tale.  The only problem now is that I would like to continue to read the next 6 books in the series to complete the beautiful story.

I always love rereading a series because there are so many wonderful tidbits of information that you know will mean something once you get to the later novels. This is how I felt traveling through the wonderfulness that is this first novel.

I would take the time to give you a recap of the story but that would be rather unacceptable, in my humble opinion.  Harry Potter is not something that can be paraphrased and then passed along; it must be experienced first hand by the readers themselves.

If you have never read the novels before and decide to take yourself on the lovely journey; please feel free to let my sister know how truly spectacular they are. One of these days I'm going to get her to read them all and enjoy the experience.

BRB, off to pre-order books, this is t-bear signing off

AWOL Woman

Book 32 - A book that scares you

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

AKA - What not to do in a relationship 101

91 - Scary. I suppose some of you who have read the novel are wondering what part of the story would make me scared. Not a BOO! scared but a psychologically afraid for my life.

92 - I sat down to start reading and couldn't stop. There is something about the story line, as insane as it is, that drew me in. I just couldn't stop reading it.

93 - Just as I was getting used to the craziness that surrounds the two main characters, I was hit with a plot twist that changed everything. At least three times this happened. I had so much warning and yet I continued to travel down a doomed path.

94 - I have to admit that I was able to identify with the characters at a few different times during the story. Both main characters had been writers in another life and this writing seemed to creep up again when I least expected it to.

95 - A large part of the psychoticness of the main characters that got to me is that they would pretend to be one person at one point and then completetly changing their personality the next moment. Scary.

96 - Gillian Flynn is an amazing author.

97 - I would definitely read this novel again. Though next time I would be much more prepared for the mental strain.

98 - I'm going to watch the movie and probably hate it. But I'm going to watch it. I'd like to see how those lovely two main characters are portrayed.

99 - There is exactly one thing about me that Oma spends hours stewing over, daily; the fact that at my ripe young age of 21, I do not yet have a boyfriend. This novel did not make me want to go out into the world and seek a boyfriend.

100 - This is the exact type of novel that makes me love and hate an author. The writing style and the story line are perfect works of fiction, but the reality that sits just under the surface is jarring.

101 - The marriage between the two main characters is not what one should strive for with the idea of a healthy realationship in mind. Read this novel if you're confused as to what a healthy relationship looks like, this is not it.

Mani, latte, dfreeze, keeping it real, this is t-bear signing off

Ketchup Time!

Book 31 - A book you started but never finished

The Fairy Tales of the Brothers Grimm edited by Noel Daniel, translated by Matthew P. Price

"Silly Songs with Larry. The part of the show where Larry comes out, and sings a silly song."

You may have noticed that the last few books have trailed one behind the other with little time in between. If we are going to keep with our challenge and show the list who's boss; we will need to read some books that are of little volume and quick reading. I don't regret the two weeks where vacations took hold and I only read one book. With such slacking on my part, you had to have seen this coming. 

But let's not dwell on the past, tis a nasty place to sit and ponder. To the book!

If there is one thing I absolutely hate, it is starting a book and not finishing it. I can't start a book and then put it down and start a new one. That just isn't okay.

So then you may be wondering how I have come to read a book that I started but never finished. 

Well, this isn't a novel. If I hadn't already used the "A book of short stories" this book would have been perfect. This book is comprised of 27 fairy tales all written by the Grimm Brothers, translated from the seventh edition which was written in 1857.

If there is one thing I love about The Fairy Tales of the Brothers Grimm it is how wonderfully they are different from those Disney versions we've all seen. They are, after all, the originals.

Today's parents would have a hard time reading these tales to their children as they are not exactly written for a younger audience. 

These stories are rather morbid, gruesome; not, altogether, pleasant. 

A few months ago I had the pleasure of visiting the cinema, on my own independence, to view the film Into the Woods. I rather enjoyed the fable as it is both musical and fairy tale wrapped into two beautiful hours. The movie is dark and very much Grimm. (See what I did there?) While I was reading the stories in this book I was happy to encounter fairy tales which the movie bad based it's stories off of. These sorts of fairy tales are far more exciting than Disney's butterflies and daisies. 

Though I have happily viewed many a Disney classic in my time, I was very excited to have the opportunity to confront the same tales that I've always loved, but in a wonderfully new way. 

I would not suggest that you take this book to your next daycare read-a-long, but if you have even the slightest respect for literature, pick it up. It's fantastical!

Take a break, for heat exhaustion's sake! this is t-bear signing off

I wished for an LOL.

Book 30 - A funny book

Alice in tumblr-Land by Tim Manley

I found this book in the section in Chapters marked "Humour". I am sad to say that I did not find it as humorous as Junie B. Jones. 

You may be scratching your head a little, maybe staring off into the distance, your thoughts may have traveled somewhere in the vicinity of "then why did she pick this book?" 

Well, because the book is from the humour section and that makes it funny, okay?

I'm sure it is a rather funny book to the correct person. That person is just not me.  

So why did I choose this book? I thought it would be an easy read. I genuinely thought it would make me literally LOL. Alas, I was mistaken. Though I have read the book and therefore must account for it. 

All the while, I'm sitting here thinking I should have bought Ellen DeGeneres' book. The way life happens...it's startlingly annoying sometimes. 

Don't track sand through the house, Ma doesn't like it, this is t-bear signing off

Swell and quite well.

Book 29 - A book from your childhood

Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus by Barbara Park

You may read the above and laugh at my book selection. If you are a member of my immediate family, you have already done so one of the times that you entered my room over the past week and observed it upon my reading stack. I assure you, this is no laughing matter. 

The Junie B. Jones books led me through my childhood. 

If I had to pick one specific author or book series that created the reader that I am today; I would pick these books. Barbara just has it all together. She really brought her A-game when she wrote the masterpieces that create Junie B. Jones' life story.

To help you understand the awesomeness that is Junie B., I have chosen two sections of this particular book to relate to you.

I must point out that although Junie B. and I share the a love of books and reading, I don't display it as outwardly as she does. If you were inside my head you may view similar opinions, but I keep it together more when I'm in public. 

The first place we walked to is called the Media Centre. My mother calls it a library. It's where the books are. And guess what? Books are my very favourite things in the whole world!

"HEY! THERE'S A JILLION OF THEM IN HERE!" I hollered, feeling very excited, "I THINK I LOVE THIS PLACE!"

The librarian bent down next to me. She said to use my quiet voice.

"YEAH, ONLY GUESS WHAT? RIGHT NOW I JUST LIKE THE KIND OF BOOKS WITH PICTURES. BUT MOTHER SAYS WHEN I GET BIG, I'M GOING TO LIKE THE KIND WITH JUST WORDS. AND ALSO, STEWED TOMATOES."

The boy I can beat up said, "Shhh."

I made a fist at him.

This second excerpt is mainly for Papa on Sunday afternoon. If you or someone you know tend to "rest your eyes", have no fear, that isn't napping. After all, napping is for babies.

I still didn't come out of the closet, though. When you're a good hider, you can't come out for a very, very long time.

I just stayed there all bend up. And I told myself a story. Not an out-loud story. I just told it inside my head. It was called "The Little Hiding Girl."

I made it up. And this is how it went:

Once upon a time there was a little hiding girl. She was in a secret spot where nobody could find her. Except her head was very tight. And her brain was squishing out.

But she still couldn't come out of her spot. Or a smelly yellow monster would get her. And also, some meanies with chocolate milk.

The end.

After that, I rested my eyes.

Resting your eyes is what my grampa does when he watches TV after dinner. Then he snores. And Grandma  Miller says, "Go to bed, Frank."

It's not the same think as a nap, though. 'Cause naps are for babies, that's why.

You don't necessarily need to read these books, (though I do suggest that you do) but if you know a child who just can't seem to find a book that's good enough; please hand them one of Barbara Park's books. She will help them love to read.

Yoga is on the horizon, this is t-bear signing off

The lies that be.

Book 28 - A book of short stories

The Amazing Spider-Man, Edge of Spider-Verse by various authors and artists who really shouldn't remain unnamed.

When I first began the journey that is this comic book, I fully intended to place it under the "A funny book" category. People, just because it says "comic" book doesn't mean it's funny. 

I felt more anguish for the characters than humour. I suppose you live and learn. Don't take things so seriously. Finally, don't judge a book by its cover. 

Going back to our challenge for this book...

I have only ever read one other superhero comic book before, and that was Batman. That comic book was just one story; so I was a little confused by the fact that there were five different stories within this comic book. 

As I sat to write to you, I observed the rear of the book and noticed that if one had perused its fine words prior to embarking on the journey from cover to cover, they would be entirely prepared for a five story book. This is where I find myself in somewhat of a pickle. 

Under no circumstances do I ever read the back cover of a book. I don't care what kind of book it is, I won't read it. There are spoilers there. Many people chuckle and claim otherwise, but there are. I've read them. They ruin things.

Therefore, it is indeed my own fault that I was unprepared for what I read. Not that this bothers me. I'm actually quite okay with it already. There may have been a moment of unrest, but I've recovered from such.

If you approve of the Andrew Garfield Spider-man, or are under the impression that there is no Spider-man but Tobey Maguire, please do not read this book. Or rather do read this book. Horizons may be broadened. 

I say this because this book takes the basic idea of Spider-man and then adds alternate universes and strange realities to make what you know as Spider-man into something that resembles Spider-man, but isn't. I am, therefore; disappointed in my choice of comic book. All this time, I could have had Andrew Garfield. The world is harsh sometimes. 

Inhale the smell of freshly chopped grass, it'll cure anything, this is t-bear signing off

The Shape Struggle

Book 27 - A book with a love triangle

The Host by Stephanie Meyer

Brought to you by the tired mind of an airport dweller whose flight has been delayed until 3:30am. Don't...fall...asleep...

So, this may be a tad bit of a lie. 

Technically, there is a love square, but only three human bodies are involved. 

Now that I've got your attention... 

Also, I feel that people are concerned about this novel because it's written by Stephanie Meyer. Please don't judge an author by their previous novel(s). (Also, Hollywood did their part to ruined those movies, the books were decent.) The novel in question is gold. Read it. 

The basic storyline: 

(Before I begin, I'd like to mention that this novel would fall under the futuristic/sci-fi category of novel specifications.)

The basic storyline:

Wanderer is a soul from a different planet. Back up, souls "invaded" the earth and stuck themselves inside humans to help bring peace and harmony and loads of hugs. Because what happy, non-violent planet doesn't have hugs?

Wanderer is a soul from a different planet. She gets put in Melanie's body and, unlike usual, Melanie resists this and continues to live in her mind with Wanderer. (Normally, the human consciousness slips away into an abyss of nothingness.)

Melanie has directions to a group of humans who are living off grid, hiding from the souls who are trying to make the humans hosts for souls. 

Wanderer starts to see these directions in Melanie's mind and decides to try to find these humans without her Seeker (similar to a police officer, yet more likely to hug you than arrest you) knowing that's where she's going. Wanderer doesn't appreciate the watchful eyes of her Seeker. 

See, Wanderer has been falling in love with two humans who were very close to Melanie just from the thoughts and memories that Melanie shows her. 

Long story short, Wanderer finds this group of humans. She spends some time being hated for being a soul. People start to appreciate her more. 

Melanie is still in love with a human that she lost before being inhabited by Wanderer, and who is living with these humans.

Then Wanderer starts to fall in love with this other fellow who lives in the group of humans. 

So you can see, it's rather a love square since there are four separate minds involved. 

Confusing, I know. But if you read the book three times you will definitely have a good handle on it. Not that I've done that, cause that would be rather ridiculous. 

I can't very well give you more details as that would involve giving away too many *spoileralert* moments. That would be totally unacceptable of me. 

Initially, I was a bit hesitant myself, to embark on the journey that is this novel, but I was rather pleased with the entire storyline.  "Addicting," as M said on our way back from Myrtle Beach. 

What I've recently realized is that Stephanie Meyer had goals. I, for one, can appreciate a good, strong goaler.

Goals, people, goals, this is t-bear signing off

DC to MB, the glory days.

We interrupt this regularly scheduled broadcast to bring you a travelogue update.

 

In case you hadn't noticed, I have recently been participating in activities which do not include reading. However, last week I was able to read and engage in such consuming activities.

I have the heart and soul of a traveler. Last week, I went on a most wonderful adventure with my best friend, M.

As we are of the ripe age of 21, this was the very first trip that either of us had taken without parents or family members or classmates. It was a very exciting time for both of us.

We left for the airport on Saturday, July 18, 2015 with so much bubbling excitement! Little did we know that that excitement would be squashed by the wonderful announcement at our gate that our flight had been cancelled. We were left to spend the night at a hotel in Detroit, which was an experience; let me tell you.

In the morning, we finally made it to Washington, DC. If there is one thing I love about history, it's American history. Ever since I spent those many months in that grade 11 American History class, I've wanted to take a travel to Mr. Obama's place of residence. There is just so much history there. If only we could have stayed a month, although I fear even that wouldn't have been enough.

One of my favourite things was sitting across the street from the Washington Monument and thinking about all the television shows and movies that I've seen that are based in DC. Just think of all the people who have stood right here in this very spot. Magical, I tell you! Magical!

National Treasure was one of the many movies that we watched on repeat as children. There were so many moments during the day where we observed places that became settings in the movie. That will remain one of my all time favourite movies, even if Mr. B (grade 11 American History teacher) claims it's historically inaccurate. (We were all appalled that he wouldn't let us watch that movie in class.)

Anywho, we visited Mr. Obama's White House, but were surprised that he didn't come outside to greet us. All those people showed up and he didn't even come out of that big white house. The nerve, I say!

We were off to a rather slow start, but the road trip portion of the adventure began on Monday, July 20.

In our rented Toyota Prius, we started the journey south. There were many beautiful things to see as we travelled through the countryside. M chose a path that would take us through the various little towns between Washington, DC and Myrtle Beach; instead of living the fast paced life of a freeway-er.

As we took a wonderfully long time to exit DC, we had not travelled nearly as far as we had hoped the first day. That is not altogether terrible. We were on vacation after all.

We stayed the night in Kitty Hawk, NC. That is just on the edge of the Outerbanks; which are a fantastically beautiful place to travel through. You may have some issues with catching ferries though. Don't worry, there is always the Jolly Roger to entertain your traveling soul as you wait three hours for the next ferry.

We finally arrived in Myrtle Beach at 10pm on Tuesday, July 21. I would normally prefer to be driving during the daytime, but I must say; it was quite a sight to be welcomed into MB with bright lights and excited vacationers. They have a lovely night life there. If you have a vehicle, why not cruise up and down North Ocean Blvd for a few hours every nigh? Traffic pileup at 10pm? Not a problem.

The air that surrounds a vacation destination is one that would make our little Ltown jealous if it were to ever see such a place.

After two and a half spectacularly vacationy days in MB, I was ready to stay forever. Unfortunately, reality took hold of my mind and made me get on the airplane to come home.

Side note: if you ever book a trip where you arrive at the Atlanta airport with only a 50 minute layover, re-evaluate your life. It was enough time, but there are better things in life than rushing from gate C55 to gate B7 in the hopes that you will make it in time. Just leave yourself some room, enjoy your travel.

After arriving home at midnight on Friday, July 24 I felt like I needed a vacation to recuperate from my vacation. We packed so much into 7 days. The week felt like forever, but I wouldn't have changed any of it.

 

One day, I'll be back, this is t-bear signing off

France is Sweet

Book 26 - A book that was originally written in a different language

Suite Française by Irene Nemirovsky

"Suite Française (French; "The French Suite") is the title of a planned sequence of five novels by Irène Némirovsky, a French writer of Ukrainian-Jewish origin. In July 1942, having just completed the first two of the series, Némirovsky was arrested as a Jew and detained at Pithiviers and then Auschwitz, where she died. The notebook containing the two novels was preserved by her daughters but not examined until 1998. They were published in a single volume entitled Suite Française in 2004."

-This quote brought to you by the most reliable, Wikipedia.

 

As you may have noticed, summer is here.

I was all gung-ho when the end of June arrived, and then July hit. There was little I could do to assist the progress of my challenge.

When one is too busy with friends to read, that is not necessarily a bad thing. Oma would be proud of my socialness.

I greatly enjoyed spending time with this novel. It was hard to read a lot in one sitting, as I was constantly on the move, but I rather loved traveling through France with the characters.

As Wikipedia kindly described, this novel is just two of the, potentially, five novels. The first series is called Storm in June which follows the lives of different families from varying social classes, fleeing Paris after hearing news of an invasion from Germany. It was interesting to see that even though there was a war going on, social class was still a major part of life. It could determine whether or not you have a place to stay, have food to eat or are even able to escape the impending invasion at all.

We are faced with every day situations, "have we packed all the linen?", "is the silver in the trunk?"; amid the people who are more concerned about saving their lives, and the lives of their family members, than saving their valuables.

Some people made it out of Paris before the invasion, some left and then returned after not reaching their destination, only to find Paris untouched and rather empty.

The second series is called Dolce which is centered around the lives of different classes of people who live in the same town. The series starts with an occupation by a troop of German soldiers.

At first all the residents of the town do not appreciate anything that involves the German's. Slowly, certain groups start to become more comfortable with their new arrangements.

The children are the first to be welcoming to the troops, followed by the ladies who are excited about the presence of men who aren't from their town. I rather enjoyed the opinions of the townsfolk regarding the mannerisms and traditions of the German's. Although many people grew very comfortable with the German soldiers, they could always take a moment to harshly judge the German way of life; therefore, proclaiming the correctness which is the French way.

These series' were wonderfully helpful in portraying what life was like to be running from dangers and what it was like to be held hostage in your own hometown. There was quite a large amount of seriousness to the tales, but there was also an appropriate amount of humour, which is always welcome.

If you happen to be looking for a novel which was originally written in a different language, look no further, I have found one for you! But really, read it. There is history, war, romance, humour and even a bit of suspensefullness. In other words, there is something for everyone!

 

Travelers, start your packing! this is t-bear signing off

Once again...

Book 25 - A book with nonhuman characters

silence by Becca Fitzpatrick

...we have returned to the saga. 

After much pressure from a certain peer, I read the third novel in the hush, hush series.

To say that I didn't like it, would be false. I may have enjoyed this one more than the first two novels in the series. Isn't that fantastic? The idea that a sequel can be better than the first and foremost, is a rather rare term in Hollywood. This is why I just absolutely love books so much. 

J.K. Rowling,  Lemony Snicket and Uncle Rick (just to name a few) have clearly shown us that a sequel can be as good as, if not better, than the original. Ms. Fitzpatrick may now place herself in that club; as I feel that she deserves it. 

Nonhuman characters.

Well, considering the novel is based around fallen angels and Nephilim, I'm pretty sure it's safe to say that there are a whole host of nonhuman characters within its pages. In this part of the series, the main character comes even closer to the nonhumanness than was ever expected. I'm not going to say anymore, you'll just have to read to find out what I'm talking about. 

With an added twist, the main character is faced with the terrible task of placing herself back into her life after amnesia is forced upon her by the people who kidnapped her. (You may think these are spoilers, but we learn such things within the first 15 pages; so don't get your knickers in a knot)

I have to say, I sometimes wish I could forget certain novels that I have read just for the pleasure of returning to their pages with entirely new love. However, there are usually serious reasons for forgetting one's memories, so maybe we'll just stick with our current situation.

I really thought I would write more about the storyline but I just can't. The spoilers would be too much, especially if you haven't even taken the lovely opportunity to read the first two novels. 

I suppose I must bid thee adieu, bedtime is approaching. Best to not be caught off guard when that wonderful time arrives. 

Composed following a very tiring night of two's beach vball, this is t-bear signing off

Not your typical breakfast

Book 24 - A book with a color (the challenge is obviously 'Merican) in the title

Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss

You may be sitting there thinking, "she's getting tired of reading novels". Not the case.

I took to the Google to find a book with a colour in the title and was not satisfied with the results. 

When the Internet failed, I took to the two bookshelves we have in the living room. One bookshelf largely consists of photo albums, Christian devotional and song books, and Ma and Pa's small collection of novels. After searching through Papa's westerns and Moma's romances, I was unable to locate a colourfully titled novel.

I arrived at the next bookshelf with little hope left in my heart. With Moma at my side, we knelt to the floor to observe the two bottom shelves; which are the only shelves with books on them. The second last shelf is Dr. Seuss, Berenstain Bears, and an assortment of Disney fairy tales. The bottom shelf is Can You See What I see?, I Spy, and a collection of other children's books too tall to fit on the shelf above it. 

The choice became, Green Eggs and Ham or One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish.

Now I haven't read the latter in quite a while so I can't be sure which was the better choice. 

If you have never sat with Dr. Seuss, then I'm pretty sure you didn't have a childhood. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the book, here is a brief summary.

Our Main Character (who remains nameless throughout the story) is reading quietly when interrupted by Sam who is insistent that Our Main Character try some green eggs and ham. This commences a long trial of Sam asking Our Main Character if he would eat green eggs and ham in/on various modes of transportation or with various types of animals. Poor Sam becomes rather dispirited by the attitude of Our Main Character who won't even try the green eggs and ham.

I was rather discouraged by the dismal air during the first part of the book. I stuck it out till the end, which was a very good thing. Not five pages from the end there is an unexpected plot twist. I don't want to spoil it for you; I just want to make sure you realize that the tone of the story is brightened by the time one meets the conclusion. 

With wonderful illustrations and fantastic rhyming, I really don't understand why anyone would deny loving Dr. Seuss books. That is to say, everyone loves them, some people just tend to deny that they do. 

"She's not fat, she's husky" remarks while looking at Garf, this is t-bear signing off

the FWD movement

Book 23 - A book based on a true story

 

The Freedom Writers Diary

 

I must say, I am embarrassed to share that I have had this novel on my bookshelf for five years and still haven't read it. I really don't know why, because I've recently discovered that it's a wonderful story.

I went to a Christian high school where every year we chose a Prayer Partner who we wrote letters to, drew pictures for and prayed for; from September to December. When Christmas time came around, we were given a theme for what our gift to our Prayer Partner was supposed to be. That year, our theme was thrift stores. We have an MCC (Mennonite Central Committee) store in town which is where I did my shopping.

Anywho, whoever got my name that year wrote a letter to me every single day. I had my suspicions about their identity over the course of the semester, but I didn't truly find out until the evening of Christmas Party. When we were to gather our gifts and deliver them to our Prayer Partner, I finally came face to face with one of my suspicions.

If you haven't already guessed, I received this novel from my Prayer Partner. I was (and have been) told many times that it is a really good read, but I have never actually taken the time to sit and hold it in my hands.

For those of you who haven't heard of their story before:

The Freedom Writers are a group of 150 students who come from various races and mostly live in below par situations in Long Beach, California. They have been classified as "unteachable, at-risk" students who are more familiar with street gun fights than the insides of textbooks. There is more racism in their lives than there is love.

Ms. Gruwell is fresh out of college and, as a newbie, is given the task of teaching these students.

Over the course of these students four years in high school they are taught how they can change their world beginning by simply writing about their lives in a diary. After reading stories such as Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl and Zlata's Diary: A Child's Life in Sarajevo, and meeting people who have lived in hiding during times of civil unrest in their own countries, the students begin to find parallels between their lives in Long Beach and the stories of their visitors.

I really enjoyed that the story was told only using diary entries from the students and Ms. Gruwell. We wouldn't have received the information in nearly the same way if a third party had told the story. The reader is able to share all the emotions of the writer when a story is written in such a personal way.

There are so many excellent things to learn from the lives of the Freedom Writers. If you get the opportunity to read this novel, please do.

 

this is t-bear signing off

My Sarah Dessen fangirl moment.

Book 22 - A book published this year

 

Saint Anything by Sarah Dessen

 

To kickoff, if I ever get to BookCon (which will happen) Sarah Dessen had better be there. I will bring all her books and have them all autographed because she is just that spectacular. (The same goes for Rick Riordan.)

Actually, spectacular is not the word. That's correct, there is no word to describe that which is Sarah Dessen.

Anywho, the novel was published in the wonderfully busy year of 2015, which makes it a perfect candidate for the challenge of "a book published this year".

I was a little surprised to find that I had a hard time participating in any activities which didn't include reading, over the past few days. There is this comatose state which one enters into when within the tight grasp of a novel written by Ms. Dessen. It has been awhile since I've read any of her novels. I completely forgot how entirely wonderful it feels to be held captive by the words of another.

There aren't extravagant or complex storylines in her novels. They don't involve inhuman creatures; as in walkers of the night. They are just so very real life that it draws you in and makes you want to stay there forever.

It is a rather interest concept that a fictional storyline can be thought of as completely non-fictional. Although, I live for the moments which take me farthest from reality, I also find a very comfortable home in the lives of characters who have been where I've been. Even though I am continually growing farther from my teenage years, I still enjoy a little flashback to what was, and how I'm happier being past that which was.

If you have ever read a Sarah Dessen novel, you will easily see the reoccurring themes of the cute teenage love story, the difficult relationship between main character and guardian(s) and the ever present discovery of oneself after a time of consuming hardships. The ideas which Sarah translates onto paper are normal things which occur in the lives of teenagers and I think this may be why many people so wholeheartedly identify with the characters.

If you haven't already guessed, I recommend this novel and all of Sarah Dessen's other novels. Read them. Seriously. Do it.

Take a day to be Garf, we all need those, this it t-bear signing off