Kafka On the Shore by, Haruki Murakami

"That things in life are fated by our previous lives. That even in the smallest events there's no such thing as coincidence." Kafka On the Shore by Haruki Murakami is my absolute favorite of Murakami's works. Psychologically captivating, and starkly thought provoking. Kafka On the Shore follows the parallel tales of the young Kafka Tamura and mentally disabled Satoru Nakata. Kafka is a fifteen year old boy who runs away from his father in search of answers and in search of his long lost mother and sister. A prophecy told to him at a younger age leads him to a secluded library far from home. This library proves to be the answer to many of Kafka's questions but unexpectedly reveals more mysteries. Nakata lost most of his mental capabilities during World War II while on a field trip with his elementary class. While on the trip a mysterious flash of light filled the sky and while most of the children were unconscious for a mere few minuets, Nakata woke up several weeks later. Once Nakata finally awoke, he was unable to read and had lost many of his memories. However, Nakata soon learns he is able to speak with cats and while Kafka is on his path to self discovery, Nakata's own adventure begins and although the two characters never meet, their destinies are much more similar than they first appear. Fast paced and intelligent in every way, Kafka on the Shore is strongly reccomended for those in seek of a mental feast. Some material however may be unsutiable for children.

P:4 Q:5

Unveiled is a novella of one woman who changed all of history, and is written by Francine Rivers with great imagination.

At early adolescents, it is common practice for young women to be betrothed. Tamar has reached that age, and is going to soon be married to a son in Judah's house. When the day arrives, she is awed at how handsome her husband is. As the day unfolds, Tamar, though tired from her long walk to her father-in-law's house, is determined to be a good wife, and tries to remember everything her mother taught her. When the wedding ceremony and feasts are done, she and her husband go into the bedchamber. Tamar is shocked. However handsome Er was, he has a heart of stone. Tamar soon learned to stay out of sight whenever possible. As her days turned into weeks, and the weeks turned into months, Tamar began to take notice of Judah's God. Losing her faith in the pagan Canaanite gods, Tamar felt an awesome power, that is unexplainable. She also felt the need to hang onto anything to survive.

Betrayed on all sides, and risking her life, she fights to fulfill her duty for Judah's household, for a chance to dare believe in a God who is all loving.

Confessions of a Shopaholic: Sophie Kinsella

Confessions of a Shopaholic written by Sophie Kinsella, is an outstanding novel- that is nothing like the movie. Sophie Kinsella has a way with words that keeps the reading laughing even when they don't want to.

Rebecca Bloomwood is a shopaholic.. to say the least. She has a driving sense for fashion and a want for expensive clothing, accesories, and things that she never uses.

Becky as a result of buying many things is in debt up to her eyeballs and ironically she works for sucessful savings as a journalist on how to save money.

Instead of paying off her debt like a normal person would think to do, she just keeps buying more... and she knows she has a problem. Becky tries many things to get rid of her spending and shopping habit, but in the end she ends up buying more and realistically hurting her life. Travel with Becky store to store, confession after confession as she tries to get her life in place, find the love that money can't buy, the story that no one can pass up, and change her life from going upside down to the right way.

Ratings:

5Q

4P

Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater

Fascination,
mystique,
protection,
desire,
love,
fear,
heat,
cold,
summer,
winter,
connection,
memory,
regret,
hope,
empty,
human,
wolves,
woods,
snow,
Grace,
Sam.
Shiver …

View all my Goodreads reviews

Sent by Margaret Peterson Haddix

Jonah, Chip, Alex and the 33 other adoptees had just been told that they were missing children kidnapped from history. Chip & Alex were being returned to the 15th century, their true place in history, when Jonah and Katherine grabbed onto Chip and were also sent through time.

The year is now 1483 and the group finds themselves in the Tower of London. Chip is really Edward V, king of England, and Alex is his younger brother, Richard, Duke of York. Chip is convinced that his uncle, Richard of Gloucester, plans to kill him and seize the crown and throne. So these 21st century teens find themselves in the middle of a time traveling mess. They must remain undetected while trying to figure out how to save Chip & Alex and return home without drastically changing the past. It would be a whole lot easier if they had some understanding of what really happened the 1st time around.

Sent is the 2nd book in The Missing series.

View all my Goodreads reviews

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

As we all know, Katniss & Peeta became the first dual winners of the 74th Hunger Games. And while many in Panem are excited and reenergized by this feat, the Capitol and President Snow are not impressed. They view Katniss' stunt with the berries as rebellion. They also don't buy the story of Katniss and Peeta as star-crossed lovers.

As Katniss and Peeta prepare for their Victory Tour, set midway between the games, President Snow pays Katniss a surprise visit and leaves her with a threat. Either convince the Capitol and all of Panem that you are madly in love with Peeta, or those you love with die, starting with Gale. He also informs Katniss that her "stunt" at the Games has set off a chain reaction of rebellion throughout the Districts. She must not fan those flames or else.

How can you smoulder a spark you didn't even mean to light, especially when you, a poor coalminer's daughter, have become the symbol of hope for a generation? Katniss better figure it out and fast. Especially since the Quarter Quell is approaching... and every 25 year anniversary of the Hunger Games holds it's own special treat for Panem. And this year's twist will no doubt leave everyone on the edge of their seats.

View all my Goodreads reviews

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Welcome to the 74th Annual Hunger Games!
This yearly event is the height of Reality TV. Think "Fear Factor" and "The Amazing Race" meet "Survivor".
"The Hunger Games" are hosted by the Capitol of Panem, the nation formerly known as North America, and is the punishment for the uprising of the districts against the Capitol. Each of the 12 remaining Districts is required to send 2 tributes who have been chosen during the Reaping. One that day a lottery system selects one boy and one girl between the ages of 12 and 18 to participate. In the case of this year's finalists from District 12, Katniss has stepped forward to take the place of the chosen tribute, her younger sister Prim.
Here is how the competition works. The 24 tributes (contestants) are placed in an outdoor arena specially designed by the game makers who have watched the tributes train and prepare. Once in the arena the tributes must do whatever is necessary to survive. The last tribute standing wins.
The competition is televised live so everyone in the country can watch and cheer on their tributes. The winning tribute will return home to a life of luxury. Their district will also receive a year's worth of food.
"Happy Hunger Games! And may the odds be ever in your favor!"

View all my Goodreads reviews >>

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

For many of you, books are an essential part of life. They provide enjoyment, companionship, possibly even an escape from reality. You may find ones you love, others you like, and some you despise. For Liesel Meminger, books were her source of strength, her obsession, her way of life.

"Where are my manners? I could introduce myself properly, but it's not really necessary. You will know me well enough and soon enough, depending on a diverse range of variables. It suffices to say that at some point in time, I will be standing over you, as genially as possible. You would will be in my arms. A color perched on your shoulder. I will carry you gently away."

I am Death and I saw Liesel, the book thief, only 3 times before I came to carry her away. The colors: white, black, red. Deaths of a brother, a stranger, and her whole world.

The last time I saw her I discovered something left behind, her journal, a story which I shall share with you. A story, set in Nazi Germany during World War II and the horrors of the Holocaust, that can prove human existence is worth it. Come with me.

View all my Goodreads reviews >>

Tale of Two cities is a novel by Charles Dickens, and takes place in revolutionary France.

Life is at its best and worst, in 1775 England and France. The royalty and aristocrats are living high, and very extravagantly, but have been careful not to pay any attention to the injustices and brutality done to the poor and middle class. As a consequence, the rulers and their people are going to be the first to pay in the revolution that on the brink of happening. In England, the focus is off of the reforming American colonists, and instead on the high rate of conspirators, violence, and crime.

Fate and the moving, but silent, forces of the revolution are inevitable.

The characters in this book are examples of all the different types of people resembled in the non-fiction part: vengeful in order to please others, sufferers of the petty crimes that are not worth mentioning, rich people of ignorance, and those who do not want to be caught up in the revolution, in spite of what has or will happen to their families or themselves.

There is a terrific plot inside the covers, which has fiction in the midst of non fiction

4Q

5P

Saving Kirsten By: Jack Weyland

Kirsten Boone has always had high morals. At the young age of 18 she makes a decision to leave her family from Ashton, Idaho to head off to college in UCLA. Kirsten hopes that she will become a aspiring actress and dancer; however are her dreams close enough to reach? As soon as Kirsten arrives in UCLA situated in classes she is approached by Chad Nieteri, a young and wealthy boy who is carefree about life. At first Chad seems interested in her wholesome values and beliefs and begins dating her, but after a few dates Kirsten wonders whether Chad is true to be. Chad on the other hand has different ideas from the relationship, and needs from Kirsten. He begins what he calls the approach by knocking a girl off her feet, and then uses her to help with his life style as a leader of a gand- in which Kirsten has no idea of. As the leader of the gang Chad and his friends impersonate police officers and bust illegal drug manufacturers and dealers, and pocket the money. When Kirsten realizes what Chad wants from her she tries taking all actions- including putting her life in danger in the process. Will Kirsten ever be able to get away from Chad alive, and will Chad change himself and everything he's grown to see? Only reading this novel will let you know!

Jack Weyland uses this book to his advantage with each chapter shifting from Kirstens point of view to Chads. The reader really gets to see everthing go down, and witness the tension between the two characters and both of their struggles. I suggest this to anyone who wants a fast read and is packed with suspense!

Ratings:

4P

5Q

M Is for Magic by Neil Gaiman

Neil Gaiman is a fantasy guru who's masterpieces include Coraline, The Graveyard Book, and Stardust. These are only the tip of the iceberg. Now comes M is for Magic. This book is a compilation of a selection of Neil Gaiman's short stories directed towards teens. Tales in this fascinating treasure box include, boys who have trouble talking to girls and end up in an otherworldly party, the investigation of Humpty Dumpty's murder, a haunting jack-in-the-box, and a boy raised in a graveyard. The later is a sneak peek at Neil Gaiman's popular novel the Graveyard Book. The stories in this novel are incredibly witty, ironically hilarious, and eerily spooky. Don't be left out, grab a copy of Gaiman's latest creation before it's too late!

P: 5 Q:5

Cirque Du Freak Graphic Novel

After a long awaited and often painful debate about which fan-comic based on Darren Shan's Cirque Du Freak series would be published, the thrilling teen vampire series has finally come out for viewing pleasure. With stunning art by Takahiro Arai, the Cirque Du Freak the graphic novel is now available. While following very closely to the original story, coming down even to the same words written by Darren Shan, the comic has an appeal all of its own. it manages to give the reader a more in place ideal of each character, along with an appearance, which may come as quite relieving for those who could never picture them in their minds. Each detail is well thought out and much suits the gritty needs of Darren Shan's writing style. Some things are left out, but it should not be expected to put very detail into art, and Takahiro Arai did a wonderful job of capturing what was important. The book actually even manages to get more perspective on the main character's best friend, soon to be enemy, Steve Leonard. If the reader can actually be made to feel sorry for Steve Leonard, then it is a powerful book indeed!

In the first book, Darren Shan, the main character as well as the name of the author due to clever and long term planning, is an average boy with all too average friends. That is, until the Cirque Du Freak comes to town. The Cirque Du Freak, French for "Circus of Freaks," throws Darren's life into hectic chaos when he and Steve sneak into a late night showing. It is easy to say that everything goes downhill from there.

Any fan of Cirque Du Freak can learn to also become a fan of the manga. The art starts out a bit awkward and strange, but it quickly melts away into something almost as enjoyable as the original series. So if you couldn't get enough of Darren Shan's novels, sink your fangs into the comics.

Q4

P3

The Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare

Wanna read City of Bones for free? And you can't make it into the library to check out a copy? Then check out this site and read it online, for a limited time. Enjoy!

Find more goodies here, including screensavers, wallpaper, and avatars. Plus hear audio clips of each book!

If you liked Wake & Fade... check this out!

If you enjoyed Wake & Fade by Lisa McMann & can't wait for Gone to be released in Feb 2010, then check this out! You can read Lisa's short story about Cabel. http://www.simonandschuster.com/giveaways/lisa-mcmann-cabel-story

Secrets At Sea by Sabre Moore

When Sabre Moore was 13, she began writing her own novel, while enjoying life on her family ranch outside Douglas, Wyoming. By age 16, she had succeeded in finding a company that would publish her book. Secrets At Sea is the result.

In Ms. Moore’s richly descriptive novel, you meet Zandra, a young woman with a rough past. In order to avoid an arranged marriage, Zandra runs away, disguises herself as Zander Knight and acquires a job as a cabin boy on a ship. But her life is no picnic and Zandra/Zander/Hawk not only must fight to keep her identity a secret but also to stay alive. Join in Zandra’s adventures complete with swordfights, predatory beasts, and pirates.

View all my Goodreads reviews >>

A Wrinkle In Time by Madeleine L'Engle

A Wrinkle in Time, is a artful masterpiece that has captivated readers since 1962. I first read this novel as a young girl and found later that it appeals to all ages. It is the story of young Meg Murry who in the course of events is visited by three celestial beings. These creatures inform Meg and her family that her long lost father is alive but being held captive in another dimension. Meg's journey had many underlying themes that include religious allusions and a fascinating array of symbolism. Also the evil entity IT, is sure to give anyone the creeps. A Wrinkle in Time is a classic that will never fade and should be read at least once in one's life. Reader's of all sorts are sure to enjoy this book and Sci-fi fans will drool over it.
P:5 Q:5

Mushishi by Yuki Urushibara

Enter the world of ancient Japan, where mysterious creatures called Mushi roam about freely as they please. Some Mushi serve good purposes, such as keeping the land green and growing. Others, usually parasitic Mushi, can cause illness and other issues of health among the people in the villages. Enter Ginko, a strange, white-haired, one-eyed wanderer that disposes of the dangerous types of Mushi. Ginko, and many others that are gifted enough to actually see the invisible Mushi, are called Mushishi. The reader follows Ginko on his journeys across Japan, discovering different types of Mushi and why they do what they do, for better of for worse. Along the way, Ginko's mysterious past and his experience with Mushi slowly begins to unravel. It seems the only question that isn't answered so far in the series is why Ginko wears modern day clothing, when the rest of the dwellers of Japan wear the traditional garb of their time.

It is easy to say that Yuki Urushibara is a genius at character design and storytelling, as well as art. While the style is sketchy and uncertain at the beginning of the story, the lines become firm and the plot becomes evident. With stunning drawings and creative tales about all the different types of Mushi, Yuki Urushibara's 'Mushishi' can attract even the most disinterested of readers.

Q 5

P 4

**This title is available through InterLibrary Loan**

Sunrise Over Fallujah by Walter Dean Myers

Robin “Birdy” Perry is from Harlem, New York. He joined the Army, against his father’s wishes. Yeah, he had other choices, mainly going to college to study finance. But after the terrorist attacks on 9-11, Robin felt a duty to his country, an obligation to stand up and defend his home, like his Uncle Richie had done in Vietnam (Fallen Angels).

It’s February 2003 and Operation Iraqi Freedom is underway. Birdy is part of the Civil Affairs Unit, which is being sent out as a mediator between the military and the civilians, hoping to stabilize and secure Iraq, by delivering medical care and supplies among other things.

But WAR is not what Birdy expected. It’s easy to identify uniformed Coalition Forces. But how do you tell who the enemy is? And with Saddam Hussein out of power, why are we still there?

Join Birdy for a close-up look at the reality of serving in Iraq, as he finds himself in the middle of sandstorms that last for days, having to leave the so-called safe zones at all hours for missions that are increasingly dangerous, and never knowing if he will make it home to patch things up with his dad.

View all my Goodreads reviews

Boneman's Daughters by: Ted Tekker

Boneman's Dauthers written by Ted Dekker, is a story of devotion, love, and pain that a father will go through for his Daughter. Ryan Evans- the not so perfect father left his family 7 years ago to follow his dream of becoming a naval intelligence officer over in the Middle East. After surviving as a P.O.V.- and the trauma that has consumed his mind. He realizes the effects that War has on innocent families, and the lives that are taken. He heads back to Texas to win his wife back, and become the father Claire (his daughter) has always wanted. Everything changes upon Ryan's arrival- everything that he has suffered from war- all the devotion, and relation is all questioned. In an instant everything changes when Boneman- a serial killer from Texas takes Claire who he believes is "his" perfect daughter. The only problem is, when a daughter fails to reach his expectations- he breaks their bones one by one, and Claire is number 8 on his list of daughters. All the evidence points that Ryan is the Boneman. In the end the hunter will be the hunted, and only ONE father will survive. Ted Dekker's description and suspense will leave you breathless as you work your way through the novel.

Ratings:

5Q

4P

=]

As Sure As Dawn by Francine Rivers

As sure As the Dawn is written by Francine Rivers, and is the third and final book in The Mark of the Lion series.

Atretes has survived ten years as a gladiator in the roman Colosseum. Supervisors and game hosts filled his days with human rewards, beatings, and fighting to survive at all costs.

Out of the arena at last, but still unable to let go of his victims, Atretes becomes bored, and drunk. Suddenly receiving information that his son lives, Atretes begins to make preparations to travel back to his home, Germania, where he was taken years ago. With his son in his arms, Atretes begins the perilous journey. Also accompanying him, is Rizpah, a widow with a past, and a roman centurion, Theophilus. Atretes, still bitter and angry over what he lost and Rome took, trusting Theophilus, and even Rizpah is still a big challenge. With Germania becoming ever closer, Atretes must ultimately decide whether he will lead his people to faith, or to eternal darkness.

Q5

P4