Lock and Key

Rating: 4.5 (Out Of Five) 

Information: 

Original Title: Lock and Key

ISBN: 0142414727 (ISBN13: 9780142414729)

Edition Language: English

Literary Awards: Iowa High School Book Award Nominee (2011)

Book Review: 

This book was an awesome summer read. I always walk away from Sarah Dessen’s books thinking about how she always hits teenager’s emotions right on the nose. She has an amazing talent… I am envious. 

I enjoyed the main characters, but fell in love with Jamie within the first few chapters. He, in my opinion, made the entire book. He was so funny, yet so realistic in his own way. His voice let in that little bit of humor that Dexter (This Lullaby) had whenever the book was getting a little to serious. 

Ruby Cooper was serious, as most of Dessen’s main characters are, and at times was a little annoying. I did however love how she took it on herself to find out who Nate really was, and the way she could relate but didn’t suffocate him, that was very well written. Her emotions were true and I could feel them coming off the page. 

Sarah Dessen has a way of making her characters stick with me and that is something i cherish in any author. Her talent baffles me and, as mentioned before, I am envious. 

-Jordan

Belles By Jen Calonita

I am going to switch things up. The same old, boring, questions are getting on my nerves. So today I am going to, attempt, to write this with some new questions, listen to my mother ask what kind of ice cream everyone wants from across the house, not going to accidentally add part of Darius Rucker's Alright lyrics to this, and not fall asleep at the key board and hit publish on a post that is all gibberish from my dogs paws... what? You don't sleep with your dog? Don't judge me. All in all I'm going to master life as my mother within the next fifteen minutes... yeah, right. So, you ready? My neither... but I'm going to try.

Title: Belles
Author: Jen Calonita
Publisher: Poppy (an imprint of Little Brown & Company)
Publication Date: April 2012 (It says January 2007, but that is very wrong. I stalk her.)
You can find more about this book on Goodreads. The link to Bells' Page is HERE.

Synopsis: Fifteen-year-old Isabelle Scott loves her life by the boardwalk on the supposed wrong side of the tracks in North Carolina. But when tragedy strikes, a social worker sends her to live with a long-lost uncle and his preppy privileged family. Isabelle is taken away from everything she's ever known, and, unfortunately, inserting her into the glamorous lifestyle of Emerald Cove doesn't go so well. Her cousin Mirabelle Monroe isn't thrilled to share her life with an outsider, and, in addition to dealing with all the rumors and backstabbing that lurk beneath their classmates' Southern charm, a secret is unfolding that will change both girls' lives forever.

My Thoughts: I found this book lacked something. Unlike most of Jen Calonita's books I had to push through the first ten chapters... there were only twenty six. It focused to much on Izzie's life before and she dwelled on loosing her home town, more than she did loosing her mom and grandmother.

There were some parts that I was confused about. I would have liked to have seen her interact with her grandmother but for editing purposes (?) they took those out. I think it would have giving Izzie more character and made her more likable.

Don't get me wrong, I loved Izzie. This book is told from two perspectives. Her cousin, Mira's, and Izzie's. If I had to choose a favorite though, it would be neither. I would have preferred to see more of Braydon.

Which brings me to ask... how can I count (on my fingers) the number of times she actually interacted with Braydon. For a love interest he sure wasn't around a lot. I mean, she was going through a lot, but I really wish Izzie would have interacted more with him. Even though there was some drama throughout the middle of the book, dictating their relationship.

Onto the fun stuff... I loved how the book showed what a real family is like. She portrayed that very well. There were times when they got so frustrated with each other, but in the end they made it through because that is what families do. They fight and protect their own.

The funnest part about this novel was getting a glimpse of the next book Winter White. It was neat to her Izzie's reaction to her Aunt Maureen's bomb drop about dress shopping for a cotillion. Izzie never had any of that and over all it was a great read for finding yourself and trying to stay true to who you are... now I'm just waiting to figure out what more drama can happen in the next book?

Twice Upon A Time

 

Summarize the book without giving away the ending. Jack May and Philip travel on another life changing journey. Jack find himself along with May and Philip.

What did you think of the main character? It switched POVs unlike the last book. I would say that May’s sarcasm and quit whit really make the book while Jack’s one liners made me laugh. Overall they were two really cute and fun characters that I would love to know in real life.

Which character could you relate to best?  Jack.

Why? Sometimes I feel like I can’t do anything right too.

Were there any other especially interesting characters? King Wolf is still my favorite villain.

 

From whose point of view is the story told? Jack and May’s.

Were the characters and their problems believable? No, they are fairytales. :)

How did the main character change during the novel? They figured out who they were and what they were destined to be.

What was the book's central question, and how was it answered?  Who is May and where is she from?

Did you learn something new from the book? You can always find yourself with the help of people you love.

Was the book different from what you expected? Yes.

Was location important to the story? Without a castle, an angry pirate, and a sea filled with merman would their even be a fairytale?

Was the time period important to the story? No

What alternative title would you choose for this book? I wouldn’t.

Share a favorite scene from the book.  When the wolf king was sent to capture the three kids. He had an army full of goblins to catch who he deemed “Children.”

What did you like most about the book? There was always an upside, even when you thought there was no way the characters would get out of the predicament they were in.  

What did you like least? The way everyone kept putting Jack down.

Did you like the way the book ended? No, it made me cry.

What do you think will be your lasting impression of this book? Friends are always supportive but you can only ever depend on family.

What did you think of the cover? I didn’t like that it didn’t match the first edition of the first book. They reprinted the first book but now I have to buy that one as well.

Would you recommend this book? Yes.

How would you rate it? ***(Three out of four stars- I really hated the way it ended)

Hush, Hush

 

This was such an awesome book. I don’t read this part of the YA Genre often but this totally changed my views. I cannot wait to read more. I loved the entire book. There were some parts that I thought Why is that in there? I think that was because there was so much action that some of the parts felt dry. It was like there wasn’t as much action in the middle like there was at the beginning and near the end. But let me just say: Great Book! I am so glad I read it. I wasn’t very optimistic about reading it mostly because I tend to stay closer to the romance section of YA (ie Jen Calontia and Sarah Dessen etc.)

Questionnaire

Summarize the book without giving away the ending. A girl who always thought of herself as average finds herself falling for a dark and dangerous guy with more secrets beyond her wildest imagination.

What did you think of the main character? Nora was so funny at times yet so dense at others. I would never listen to my best friend after she led me astray so many times.

Which character could you relate to best?  Jules

Why? I think everyone plots revenge in their own ways… his was just more proactive.

Were there any other especially interesting characters? Vee and Eliot

From whose point of view is the story told? Nora

Were the characters and their problems believable? Uh, no.

How did the main character change during the novel? She went out of her comfort zone. She learned to trust.

What was the book's central question, and how was it answered?  Why was Patch so mysterious? Because his past was dark and unspeakable.

Did you learn something new from the book? No, not really.

Was the book different from what you expected? Yes. I expected something more dark and sinister when I flipped through the pages at the book store.

Was location important to the story? Yes, I enjoyed the fact that it was set in a place with unreliable weather. It was that much more interesting to read.

Was the time period important to the story? Yes. It went from the past (1565) to the present.

Share a quote or two from the book. “I’ve got quite a collection going of an eZine columnist who believes there’s truth in eating organic, who writes poetry in secret, and who shudders at the thought of having to choose between Stanford, Yale, and… what’s that big one with the H?” – Patch on Nora

Share a favorite scene from the book.  When she first meets him.

What did you like most about the book? That Vee and her made up. I couldn’t think about going through life without my best friend.

What did you like least? That her best friend didn’t believe her… even if she was wrong.

Did you like the way the book ended? Yes and I cannot wait for the sequel.

What do you think will be your lasting impression of this book? People can change but there past never does.

What did you think of the cover? It was dark, I almost didn’t buy it because of the look of it.

Would you recommend this book? 100% Yes

How would you rate it? **** (Four out of Five Stars – it was flat at times.)

My First Booktube video!

 

I finally started making youtube videos for this blog. Whoo! These are the books that I have purchased over the course of the past few months. :)

 

Enjoy

 

 

 

 

One Of Those Hideous Books Where The Mother Dies

 

Written in verse Sonya Sones cultivates a tragic love story that I never wanted to end. One of those hideous books where the mother dies is an amazing novel of lost loves and finding yourself. – Jewels from Jordan

I sped through this novel. It was amazing, literally one of the best books I’ve read in 2012. There is not much more I can say about this book so without further ado let’s get on with the questionnaire.

Questionnaire

Summarize the book without giving away the ending. It’s about a girl named Ruby who loses her mother and has to move to L.A. with her movie star dad.

What did you think of the main character? I loved Ruby. I felt her sadness through every page I read.

Which character could you relate to best?  Ruby.

Why? If I lost my mother I wouldn’t know my place in the world.

Were there any other especially interesting characters? Whip and Max.,. I mean for obvious reasons that I will not disclose at this current time. (BUY THE BOOK!)

From whose point of view is the story told? Ruby

Were the characters and their problems believable? Yes.

How did the main character change during the novel? She basically went from someone hating her new life and wishing she could go back to the way things were, to embracing her life with her daddy.

What was the book's central question, and how was it answered?  Would she be able to live in L.A. and be happy.

Did you learn something new from the book? Mommies will always be missed.

Was the book different from what you expected? Yes. I didn’t look ahead to see it was writing in verse form.

Was location important to the story? Yes. Movie stars live in Los Angeles… Duh.

Was the time period important to the story? Yes.

What alternative title would you choose for this book? Seriously. Why haven’t I takent his question out yet? Oh that’s right. I got distracted by that piece of foil that somehow managed to make it back to my room from the kitchen….

Share a quote or two from the book. Depressed? Who? Me? Yes, hideously. Not to mention way ticked off. Wouldn’t you be? – Ruby

Share a favorite scene from the book.  When she started letting her daddy in.

What did you like most about the book? That her dad wasn’t some stuck up jerk who didn’t want her.

What did you like least? That it took the entire book for her to listen to his side of the story.

Did you like the way the book ended? Yes.

What do you think will be your lasting impression of this book? Anyone can be a Father; it takes someone special to be a Daddy.

What did you think of the cover? She looks exactly like I imaged Ruby to look like.

Would you recommend this book? Yes.

How would you rate it? ***** (Five Out Of Five Stars)

Ten Things We Did (And Probably Shouldn't Have)

 

Ten Things We Did (And Probably Shouldn't Have) BOOK REVIEW VIDEO 

I awaited this novel for months and it did not disappoint. It took me soooo long to read it because things just kept getting in the way and I kept picking up other novels but this one I had to read in the month of September. It was an absolute must. So many plot twists and turns I never wanted to put it down. I read it in about four hours. It was such an easy read! I never wanted it to end! Sarah Mlynowski is a genius.

Summarize the book without giving away the ending. It’s about three friends who get into problem after problem while living unsupervised – without parental guidance. It starts off when the main character is sixteen and follows her through her junior year of high school.

What did you think of the main character? Definitely one of my favorite characters of all times. April has a spark about her.

Which character could you relate to best?  Vi

Why? She’s confident but even the ones with the utmost confidence sometimes feel left on the outside.

Were there any other especially interesting characters? Hudson kept me on my toes.

From whose point of view is the story told? April’s

Were the characters and their problems believable? Yes. I think any teenager who could get away with living parent free would jump at the chance.

How did the main character change during the novel? She learned that she needed (In her words) be more gutsy. She didn’t need to depend on others. She wasn’t on her own. She had a life that she had made for herself.

What was the book's central question, and how was it answered?  Could she make it on her own and be happy? It was answered with a big fat YES!

Did you learn something new from the book? Sarah Mlynowski never disappoints. (That’s not what you meant – liars get what’s coming to them. The truth always comes out. I think we all learn that the hard way.)

Was the book different from what you expected? Yes. I didn’t expect Marissa to be the fugitive and I definitely thought that Corinne was sneaking around with Noah.

Was location important to the story? Yes.

Was the time period important to the story? No, not really. People would more likely let their kids go off on their own as teenagers in the 19^th Century. Now, not so much.

What alternative title would you choose for this book? I really am going to delete this question. How many times have we gone over this?

Share a quote or two from the book. Vi was a genius. A moody, self-assured, evil genius. – April

Share a favorite scene from the book.  When Hudson finally made his feelings clear.

What did you like most about the book? That her and Hudson got together.

What did you like least? That it took the entire book for her and Hudson to get together.

Did you like the way the book ended? Yes, very funny. I want a sequel.

What do you think will be your lasting impression of this book? Family is always there and even if you disperse they are still your family.

What did you think of the cover? I liked it. I would’ve been unoriginal and thought a checklist. (Go Sarah!)

Would you recommend this book? Yes. I think everyone should read it. Although preteens should be advised that there is some suggestive content.

How would you rate it? ***** (Five Out Of Five Stars)

 

The Espressologist

 

 

I have this theory. You can write a book if you dot say you’re going to write a book. Because then you might get so caught up in trying to write the book that you’ll never write the book. Jane Turner had a theory to. Everyone could be matched to the perfect person through the type of coffee they drink. She has this notebook where she records who drinks what at her job as a Barista at Wired Joes. She calls this Espressology and her being the one deciding who belongs with who is The Expressologist. She starts matching up her friends and her best friend – Em – starts going out with a guy named Cam who actually has a crush on Jane, of course Jane has a crush on the school jock, but when her boss talks her into a  in-store promotion that spreads like wildfire and a television studio comes to film it, the school’s It girl and her secret crush seem to be the perfect match. So the question is will she let him go for the sake of Espressology?

This was very inventive. I loved the entire book. I cannot imagine not having it in my collection. Such a good read. It makes me want to start working at a coffeehouse and start coming up with my own Espressology system!

QUESTIONNAIRE

 Summarize the book without giving away the ending. *LOOK ABOVE*

What did you think of the main character? I fell in love with Jane from the beginning.

Which character could you relate to best?  Cam

Why? Because he is love with someone who is completely oblivious, who doesn’t even realize she is hurting him.

Were there any other especially interesting characters? Her Boss, Derek.

From whose point of view is the story told? Jane Turner

Were the characters and their problems believable? Yes. Love is complicated.

How did the main character change during the novel? She went from wanting something she wanted to something she needed. Cam was there all along and she just didn’t open her eyes.

What was the book's central question, and how was it answered?  Basically it was about love. I believe it was a Valentine’s Day Novel. (At least that’s when I bought it.) How would she choose between her desires and the Espressology system that she thought was full proof? It was answered when she realized that she had made a mistake. Her secret crush was not the one made for her coffee/personality-wise. Cam was though.

Did you learn something new from the book? The person that your meant to be with isn’t always who you imagine.

Was the book different from what you expected? Yes and no. I expected something quirky and fun and it gave me that. Lots of laughs my sister had to tell me to quit telling her things that the characters said because she wanted to read the book for herself. But also no it wasn’t, because I honestly expected her friend to be happy for her – not to give her the silent treatment. Goodness! Let her explain!

Was location important to the story? Yes they were in dire need of a coffeehouse.

Was the time period important to the story? No not really.

What alternative title would you choose for this book? I’m seriously going to delete this question. It is totally useless. They choose it for a reason.

Share a quote or two from the book.

Em – “Stop laughing! This isn’t funny. He’s been acting strange ever since he graduated.”

Jane – “Sounds like it” I mean seriously, a bowling league?

Share a favorite scene from the book.  When she storms out because she lost her crush and Cam goes to comfort her.

What did you like most about the book? The ending. Everyone was happy. Cam and Jane got together and she still had her best friend.

What did you like least? The fact that Will (Her crush) was just using her. She really liked him.

Did you like the way the book ended? Yep.

What do you think will be your lasting impression of this book? That true love waits.

What did you think of the cover? I loved the catchphrase on the front: *Get a little love with your latte*

Would you recommend this book? Yes.

How would you rate it? **** (Four Out Of Five Stars) It was a little slow at the beginning.

Half Upon A Time

 

 

This was such a fun read. I didn’t want to put it down! Between May’s (Princess) giving away her sarcasm to all the twist and turns weaved throughout the plot it was a highly enjoyable read. I loved the Prince and Jack’s witty banter throughout the book and the ending was totally unexpected.

I cannot say enough about this book, I truly cannot. James Riley has made a Debut Novel that I will remember for eternity and always have on my book shelf. His sense of humor kept me laughing non-stop throughout the entire book. Everyone needs to read this book. It is truly for all ages. My mom plans on reading it along with my pastor. I’m loaning it to anyone who will take it. Totally awesome!

QUESTIONNAIRE

Summarize the book without giving away the ending. A fairytale unlike any other, such fun. The humor was sharp and used in all the right places while the places that the characters experienced issue after issue it was solved with grace and laughter.

What did you think of the main character? Jack has some embarrassment issues. I have never heard of a guy blushing so much. I loved it. I definitely think he is going to be one of my favorite male characters of all time.

Which character could you relate to best? The Prince.

Why? I think everyone tries to prove themselves at one point of their lives. I don’t think it was just about avenging his father’s death as much as it was about him finding out whom he really was and what his purpose is in life (Other than taking over the kingdom.)

Were there any other especially interesting characters? The Wicked Queen of course!

From whose point of view is the story told? It’s told in third person, but it follows Jack.

Were the characters and their problems believable? Hardly. My nana is definitely not the Wicked Queen and I can honestly say if I called her that she would take my silver spoon away.

How did the main character change during the novel? Jack wasn’t able to fulfill his destiny in his Grandfather’s opinion until a Princess from Punk appeared out of the sky.

What was the book's central question, and how was it answered?  Would they find May’s Grandmother? Yes, they did. Just like all good fairytales they reached their destination and James riley managed to spin a little bit of reality into the mix when it didn’t go exactly as planned.

Did you learn something new from the book? That not everything is always what it appears to be.

Was the book different from what you expected? Yes, I didn’t expect there to be an opening for a sequel but I am anxiously awaiting it’s arrival.

Was location important to the story? Yes, like all good fairytales you couldn’t have a Queen without a Castle.

Was the time period important to the story? No, not especially.

What alternative title would you choose for this book? There isn’t one. It was very creative.

Share a quote or two from the book.

Jack – “It’s probably used to listening to the witch. Maybe you remind it of her.”

May – “You want me to tell it to drop you?”

Jack – “I take it all back. You’re wonderful and beautiful and amazing.”

May – “That’s what I thought.”

Share a favorite scene from the book.  When he kisses her at the beginning of the book and she wakes up.

What did you like most about the book? The fact that the story is going to continue – I cannot wait for the sequel!

What did you like least? That either Jack or the Prince is going to betray her.

Did you like the way the book ended? No, it ended. I wanted it to go on forever.

What do you think will be your lasting impression of this book? That you have to keep going even when you think you’re out of the game and there is no getting out of the hole you’re in.

What did you think of the cover? Love it. It caught my eye in the store. I probably wouldn’t have picked it up without Jack’s feet dangling from the beanstalk. :)

Would you recommend this book? Yes, this is going to everyone this Christmas.

How would you rate it? ***** (Five Stars)

Sleeping Beauty

 

Hey everyone! Long time no type? I’m sorry it has been so long since I have been online (let alone written a blog post) I am seriously lacking in the personality department. I’ve been good, just chugging along. I finished my novel! WHOOO! It took nineteen days because I stayed camped in my room. My family had to practically drag me out of my room by my hair at dinner time. People say you can’t work on an empty stomach? It depends on how driven you are! Okay we aren’t here to talk about that, we are here for another book review: Sleeping Beauty – The One Who Took The Really Long Nap – In one word it was excellent. I loved it. Her version is awesome. It had humor and whit and I smiled throughout the entire book. It took about four hours of my mother screaming at me to do my chores to read this book but it was worth every second of me being threatened to be grounded – So VERY Worth It! It was an amazing read. Wendy Mass is doing the fairytales as she sees them through her eyes. For instance Sleeping Beauty went to sleep for one hundred years because her parents made a fairy mad. I don’t want to go into details (Although I say that then I probably will!) because I don’t want to ruin it for you. I bought the three that are currently in stores at the same time because I just knew I was going to love them, and I’m so glad I did because I could be begging right now to get the other one. ;) It’s two hours away so it could’ve been awhile. The other two that are out are: Rapunzel & Beauty and the Beast. Okay so without further ado here is the infamous Questionnaire!

**********

Summarize the book without giving away the ending. A Princes with no name searches for his true love who he hopes is the one century year old Princess in an exact replica of his castle hidden on his grounds. The book alternates between the Princess and the Princes’ point of views.

What did you think of the main character(s)? I loved Princess Rose and her quest to figure out what she wasn’t good at. She was humble and I believe someone who had the chance to have the gifts she had wouldn’t be as gracious. It took me a little while to take a liking to the Prince. He was more introverted and didn’t have many friends and at first no personality. But it developed over the course of the book.

Which character could you relate to best?  Sara.

Why? She held her friendship with Rose higher than she did herself. She slept for one hundred years leaving her family behind because she cared so much for her. She was her true family.

Were there any other especially interesting characters? The Prince’s Mother. It was a change for me to read about a queen with Ogre blood!

From whose point of view is the story told? It alternated between Princess Rose and the Prince life. The past and the present.

Were the characters and their problems believable? Of course not. It is a fairytale! If you were to sleep for an entire century reality is cruel and you would certainly age.

How did the main character(s) change during the novel? They grew into themselves. Since the story began with them as young kids. Princess Rose found she didn’t deserve her gifts and wanted to find something she wasn’t good at and then found that she wasn’t gifted because of a bunch of fairies it was because she was herself. The Prince always thought he was in the way – never having a place in the world. Even though he was in line for the throne he never thought he belonged.

What was the book's central question, and how was it answered?  Who was going to wake Princess Rose? The Prince finally got into the castle and was able to wake her by kissing her.

Did you learn something new from the book? No, not really. It was a basic love story just with fairies involved. (I loved it none the less.)

Was the book different from what you expected? Yes. There have been so many revisions of Sleeping Beauty I thought this would be just like one of the others, but it was not.

Was location important to the story? Of course! Sleeping Beauty couldn’t have slept in a cabin, she needed a castle. How else would the Prince have found her?

Was the time period important to the story? Yes. It was set in the eighteen-hundreds.

What alternative title would you choose for this book? There is no alternative. It had to be Sleeping Beauty.

Share a quote or two from the book. “Rose, listen to be carefully. You are not special and wonderful and admired and loved because a bunch of fairies gave you some gifts. You are special and wonderful and admired and loved because you are YOU.” – The Queen

Share a favorite scene from the book.  When he woke her.

What did you like most about the book? That her hair would grow back – I have never been so happy for fairy magic.

What did you like least? That Princess Rose had to change herself to marry the Prince. I think everyone person changes in today’s day and age to make their mate happy, but I thought it was odd – even because of his mother – that you would do that in a fairytale.

Did you like the way the book ended? Yes, a true fairytale ending.

What do you think will be your lasting impression of this book? That true love will find you.

What did you think of the cover? I loved the girly-ness of it. Super Cute!

Would you recommend this book? Yes a million times yes. Everyone needs to read this book.

How would you rate it? ***** Five Stars. It was an impeccable read.

Sleepaway Girls

 

I have my glasses on, hair fixed and smell faintly of bleach from just finishing up the kitchen – I’m ready for another Book Review! Whooo, snaps for Jordan! :) I was just sitting around listening to Ke$ha (for the umpteenth time) when I thought why not?! I was considering doing one every Friday, but honestly I am not a fast reader. I would have to do past books and would probably be talking about Romeo and Juliet’s last and final act instead of the current topic at hand let’s say, Andrew Clemet’s award winning book – and one of my favorites – Frindle. So to save myself the misery of deleting post after post to get it correct we are going to hold off on that for now. :)

The one I have refrained myself from doing the past month and a half is Sleepaway Girls by Jen Calonita. I will admit I was hesitant. If you’ve heard of her you know she is best known for her extraordinary work in magazines and such but even more so – by teenage girls at least – for her Secrets Of My Hollywood Life Series. I’m going to give you fair warning there is some bragging to come. The last addition to the series was released last year and yes I cried and had to have my sister read it to me. Puffy eyes are not easy to read with. I probably gave the Kleenex brand their Christmas Bonus due to this one book. I will admit that I was not pleased at all with this last book. Why would you end your series with her in Acoma? Once again I reeled myself in and decided not to send a stream of angry emails. You don’t do that to another person especially a fellow author. After I got over that HUGE hole in the road, I took over the book and read the last six chapters of The End. The Books are listed below:

1. Secrets of My Hollywood Life
2. Secrets of My Hollywood Life: On Location
3. Family Affairs
4. Paparazzi Princess
5. Broadway Lights
6. There’s No Place Like Home

Her other novels are listed below:

1. Sleepaway Girls
2. Reality Check

And her newest series premiered on March 23, 2012
1. Bells

I’m not going to go down any more Rabbit Holes :) This review is for Sleepaway Girls so let’s get started.

I boycotted the two novels mentioned above because I strongly believe(d) that she shouldn’t have taken tow hears off to write two other novels when I could have had two more books added to the series. But I have seen the light at the end of the tunnel. I see her reasoning. She wanted to let Kaitlin Burke live just a little bit longer, so that is why I am just now doing a review on this fantastic book. Sleepaway girls was amazing the main character was fun and flirty with just a tiny dose of shy.

QUESTIONNAIRE
Summarize the book without giving away the ending. A girl goes to summer camp with the idea of getting away from her best friend and her new boyfriend. Little does she know more drama waits at this little remote area than she ever dreamed.

What did you think of the main character? I fell in love with Sam Montgomery from the very first paragraph. I absolutely get where she is coming from. I would never spend an entire summer listening to two love birds. I think she took the high road. She left instead of causing a big fuss. :)

Which character could you relate to best?  Courtney AKA Court

Why? Because she doesn’t care what people think.

Were there any other especially interesting characters? Grace! If there was one character I wish I could relate to it would be her. I so wish I could play sports. Hello! Uncoordinated Ville Population: 1.

From whose point of view is the story told? Sam Montgomery

Were the characters and their problems believable? Yes. Although the way they handled it – in the end, were not. I just don’t see how all those campers cold care about two girl’s food fight. It should’ve been old news by the time they made the video for the talent show.

How did the main character change during the novel? She ultimately changed when she realized that her supposedly best friend didn’t care as much about has as she did for her. (does that make sense?)

What was the book's central question, and how was it answered?  It was a romance novel but I think it was basically about her pushing against her fears and leaving her sofa for the summer to grow. I think it was answered when she finally came out of her shell and left with friends and a possible relationship.

Did you learn something new from the book? Yes. True friends are there through thick and thin, wannabee friends are just there until something better comes along.

Was the book different from what you expected? Yes and No. I expected a boy to be involved – but not two. I also thought she would get a nemeses – I didn’t assume she would have to one day (maybe) live with her.

Was location important to the story? Yes. If she didn’t go to summer camp how would she have met Cole and Em.?” 

Was the time period important to the story? Not really. Well I guess in some ways yes. People now days don’t spank in summer camp like they used to. (Although they certainly should’ve done just that to some of those characters!)

What alternative title would you choose for this book? I always think that the author made the right choice, so I wouldn’t,

Share a favorite scene from the book.  At the very beginning when she gets hit in the head with a ball.

What did you like most about the book? The fact that it had a happy ending, I like how she stood u for herself and made what she wanted to happen. :)

What did you like least? It ended. I really could’ve read this book for eternity. Although you would need a lot more plot twists.

Did you like the way the book ended? Didn’t we just go over this? (But if it had to end, then Yes!)

What do you think will be your lasting impression of this book? That friends are always there. Jen Calontia is really good at portraying friendships.

What did you think of the cover? I liked it. I thought the camp t-shirt was a nice touch.

Would you recommend this book? Yes.

How would you rate it? **** Four Stars. (What? It isn’t SOMHL.)

Thanks for readin' - Jordan

The Last Little Blue Envelope

 

It’s been awhile since my last post, huh? I feel like every time I start to write one it doesn’t sound right to my ears, so I delete and say “I’ll do it another time.” Well now is another time! I am putting my foot down and publishing this post! Okay! So this is my second book review. I know there are tons of book reviews about this sequel but I cannot rein myself in. I have to write this. You know there are certain things that remind you of a book? Like a song that while you read it you thought “that would be perfect on the soundtrack.” Or while eating a taco you think of your favorite scene where the bear invaded the escape prisoner’s campsite. This is one of those books that keep coming back whenever I plug in my I-Pod. I love this book. Maureen Johnson finally made the sequel to Thirteen Little Blue Envelopes titled The Last Little Blue Envelope. I’m telling you, I cannot get enough of this story. It has an amazing twist that you never would have thought of as the reader. I would love to live in her mind for just one day. There are some HUGE turn of events that makes you keep turning the pages well after the light are out. I personally used my flashlight so much I needed new batteries by the middle of the book.  I could never explain the awesomeness of this book, but I’m certainly going to try!

Title: The Last Little Blue Envelope

Author: Maureen Johnson

Questionnaire

Summarize the book without giving away the ending. I can’t it is too juicy!

What did you think of the main character? I think the story is mostly about her finding herself, in the world she lives in there aren’t a lot of chances, but when life gives you lemons….

Which character could you relate to best.  Keith.

Why? Because he didn’t think he would get a second chance at love.

Were there any other especially interesting characters? I would have to say Oliver, once I got over my intense dislike of him.

From whose point of view is the story told? 18 year old Ginny Blackstone.

Were the characters and their problems believable? Oh yes. Ginny’s internal quest made it way more believable than if she wouldn’t have cared and given up on Keith.

How did the main character change during the novel? She learned that it wasn’t about her love for him, it was what was best for her.

What was the book's central question, and how was it answered? For most I think it would have been about love (which is what I was talking about before.) But I think it is about her and her future. The main part of the book is about her relationship with her friend but I think if you look deeper than what meets the eye – past the words – you will see all she wanted was a happy ending. 

Did you learn something new from the book? Sometimes you have to let go of the ones you love.

Was the book different from what you expected? YES! I expected Keith to be waiting for her. Like prince charming.

Was location important to the story? Oh of course! If she didn’t travel to Europe she never would have had a life changing experience.

Was the time period important to the story? I don’t have a straight answer for that one. I think that yes in some ways, no in others. It was good for transportation, but eh, I wouldn’t have mattered if it was the 80’s.

What alternative title would you choose for this book? I wouldn’t have. I think this is the perfect title for the sequel!

Share a quote or two from the book. 1. “It's always easier to say good-bye when you know it's just a prelude to hello.” 2. “We're going to die," Keith said, the moment he was gone. "This man is a serial killer. We're going to die, and he's going to bury us in his garden and build a shed on us.”

Share a favorite scene from the book. When she tells her uncle that she is staying in Europe that made me ecstatic!

What did you like most about the book? The fact that she found what she was looking for, that missing piece.

What did you like least? That Keith was a jerk.

Did you like the way the book ended? I absolutely adored the ending.

What do you think will be your lasting impression of this book? Just the fact that it spoke to me. A girl going away from what she knows and finishing what she started, just makes you want to read it again and again!

What did you think of the cover? I like that it resembled the first book’s cover.

Would you recommend this book? I would recommend this book to any teen, or adult. This is a book that should be in everybody’s personal library!

How would you rate it? **** Four Stars!

Waiting For You

 

I know it’s been awhile but I’m here with my first book review!!!! I hope you’re ready!

Author: Susane Colasanti

Title: Waiting for You

This was my first attempt to read a Susane Colasanti book and yes, I succeeded. The book is about a troubled girl who went through a whole year depressed due to anxiety. Unlike some books I’ve read the character doesn’t blame the anxiety for her depression she knows she can control it but in some ways it’s easier to give in than be strong and hold yourself together. I’ve felt this way through the years and I know it is more likely that most people would fall into depression rather than stay firm and be strong for our family and for ourselves. Despite her depression she wants to make sophomore year a year to remember. Marissa and her friend Sterling always make a pac every year that they will have the best year ever. When she walks into school she realizes that that isn’t very possible. Her lost best friend she reunited with tries to be more and she realizes he isn’t who’s she ‘Waiting’ for. But when the love of her life breaks up with his girlfriend and she finally has her chance the feelings come back, her house is falling apart and she finds that not everything has a happy ending.

About the Author:

It all started in northern New Jersey because that's where I'm from. My hometown is surrounded by a bunch of other small towns in a remote area known as The Middle of Nowhere. In elementary school, I walked down our endless dirt driveway to get to the bus stop. We lived in the mountains, and on a clear day you could see New York City. There were a lot of woods and deer and woods and horses and farms and sprawling fields. And then there were more woods.

Which is nice when you're older and you go back to visit and appreciate nature and all. But growing up there was beyond boring. Although I was raised in the country, I've always been a city girl at heart. So I focused my creative energy on visualizing the kind of life I wanted to live when my real life started. I made a lot of wishes about how I wanted my future life to be. I couldn't wait to graduate and go away to college.

The cool thing about college is that you can totally reinvent yourself once you get there. If you want to be a different person, college is the perfect opportunity to make that happen. Because dude! No one knows you there yet. So you can be the person you've always wanted to be. You can be the best version of yourself and build a shiny new life. How sweet is that?

Not that you have to wait until college to be your most excellent self. Every day is an opportunity to become a better person - someone who tries to always be a friendly neighbor and does what they can to make the world a more peaceful place.

But it was hard for me to be my best self when I was in high school. Most people say that high school is the best time of your life. Question: Who are these people? They've obviously forgotten what being a teen was like. Here's the thing. Junior high and high school test your survival skills. You will probably never be as depressed, mortified, confused, frustrated, devastated, or lonely again. But! This is a good thing. Surviving hard times means you've become stronger (and way more interesting). Emotional strength not only helps you be a happier person, it makes it easier for you to help others be happier, too.

I was an outsider. Kids picked on me for being a nerd and doing weird things like writing song lyrics all over my Keds, or being the only one laughing in class when no one else thought it was funny, or actually loving science. Now I own my weirdness because everyone knows that outsiders grow up to be the most successful, creative, loving people. But it was lonely at the time. I don't have any brothers or sisters, so I spent tons of time alone growing up. I had my group of friends, but I didn't really feel like any of them got me. I was trying to hide some embarrassing things about my life and couldn't connect with them as much as I wanted to. Books were my true friends. I would read my favorite books so many times the pages would start to fall out. I was so thankful that the authors wrote those books, that their characters inspired me to never give up.

Giving back to the community is something I've always felt really strongly about. I believe in karma, that if you put positive energy out into the Universe, you are creating positive energy in your own life. It was easy for me to identify with others who needed help in some way, and that's how my passion for volunteer work originated. I've been a hospital candy striper, a Girl Scout leader-in-training, and the arts & crafts director at a sleep-away camp for kids affected by AIDS. I was a buddy and home helper at ActionAIDS in Philadelphia and a community outreach educator and curriculum developer at GMHC in New York.

I spent a lot of time imagining my ideal life and how I could create that life when I grew up. These dreams motivated me to work hard so I could go to an excellent university. Kicking academic butt really does open doors for you, even ones that you never knew existed. When I got into the University of Pennsylvania, it finally felt like my real life was starting. And living in Philadelphia rocked my world because I'd wanted to live in a city for so long.

I've always had a thing for astronomy. I even had my own telescope and liked sketching the moon and planets. My seventh grade science teacher inspired me so much that I knew I wanted to become a science teacher when I was 12 years old. After Penn, I moved to New York City and got my master's degree in Physics Education from New York University. I loved going for walks around Greenwich Village at night, feeling how amazing the energy is here and imagining how awesome it would be to live in this neighborhood one day. And now I'm here. The power of creative visualization is really strong. My ultimate goal (besides seeing When It Happens become a movie) is to own a home here. As with all of my other dreams, I will never stop believing that this is possible. Always dream big!

When I started teaching, I lived on the Upper West Side and walked home from school every day. But then I heard about some schools in other neighborhoods that didn't have basic supplies like books or paper or enough desks. I heard how too many kids didn't have good science teachers who cared about them. And it just made me so mad that privileged kids in rich neighborhoods get all the resources, while the kids who need those resources the most never have enough.

So I packed up my stuff and switched schools. I was a high school Physics and Earth Science teacher in the South Bronx from 2000 to 2007.

I survived a lot of hard times growing up. But those painful experiences gave me insight and strength. I wanted my students to know that no matter how difficult things were, they could still create their ideal lives.

It took me a while to realize that it's possible to have more than one career. I wrote When It Happens and Take Me There while I was a teacher. Then I made an executive decision to leave teaching so I could dedicate the next chapter of my life to writing teen novels. The purpose of my life is to help teens be their most amazing selves. So not being a teacher anymore was a hard decision to make. How could someone who worked her whole life to get to this place decide to leave it? But then I thought about the way reading saved me when I was younger. And how I could reach more teens as an author than I ever could as a teacher.

Now I'm a full-time author. I never thought I’d switch careers like this, but that’s the thing about life.  Life is a wild thing.  You never know where it’s going to take you, or how your journey might unexpectedly change.  But as long as you follow your heart, you'll end up right where you belong. And that’s the ultimate destination.

*Since I don’t know her personally I don’t feel like I should write about her life, so this biography was copied from her website.*