Shakespeare Month, 2 mini-reviews, and hey, it's been a while

So... blogging. It's not so much been happening lately. The sad thing is I can trace the demise of my blogging life to when I started working night shifts. The good news is that I am back on days soon, hopefully for a long while, and it is New Year's Day, harbinger of all the best intentions. I can't promise I'll be perfectly consistent, but I'm not throwing in the towel yet, even if my "currently reading" button hasn't changed in over a year. (I'm still reading tons, just not writing on it).

I'm not going to be terribly organized about this because to be honest, the most important thing to me is to just keep going when I can. So this post is going to be random and all over the place.

First off, The Classics Club is hosting Shakespeare in January, a celebration of the Bard and his works. I have the best of intentions of reading all of his works at some point in my life, so I am looking forward to jumping head-first into this. I'd like to read/listen to 3 Shakespeare plays. I have an audiobook version of Hamlet and would also like to read King Lear and Richard II. They will be hosting a different event every month and while I don't plan on participating in every event, many of them appeal to me so plan on seeing more of that.

Finally, I finished two books today so I'm going to review them. I can't always keep up with blogging about all the books I read -- I read too many and have so many other obligations that sometimes they fall by the wayside. However, I have been fortunate enough to receive many great books from publishers and NetGalley and I want to attempt to review as many as I can. So... on with that.

Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh

First of all, have you ever read the blog Hyperbole and a Half? I have been reading it for years and it is hilarious. She writes about her memories and simple every day emotions and events with a humor and bluntness that is refreshing and laugh-out-loud funny. I was very excited to see that Allie Brosh was writing a book from her blog; however, I was disappointed at how much of her content was simply repeated in the book. I was hoping to see more new stories. While there were some scattered throughout the book, they didn't quite live up to the original blog posts. Honestly, I'd recommend simply visiting her blog -- you could easily spend hours there (I have). However, if you want to get to the best-of posts quickly, the book is the way to go.

3 stars

Insurgent by Veronica Roth (Divergent #2)

I read Divergent about 18 months ago, and I liked it decently, although to me it didn't measure up to The Hunger Games, to which it is frequently compared. While I liked it, I wasn't overly excited to dive into the remaining books in the trilogy. However, with the final book finally out and the buzz surrounding the movie, I decided it was finally time to finish this series. I found Insurgent to be more compelling than Divergent. The characters and their choices are more complex than I sometimes see in YA and especially dystopian YA -- there are so many nuances to each decision. In that sense, Insurgent reminded me of Mockingjay. A war is being fought but there are more than just two sides, and each side has many flaws as well as merits. The adventure of the story kept me invested, and the many twists kept me reeling. While Insurgent is not a book that shattered my illusions or had a lasting impact on me, it was an entertaining read.

3 stars

Birthmarked by Caragh M. O'Brien

I read the audiobook of Birthmarked and got it digitally from the library, so when I googled covers for this post I loved seeing how gorgeous they are! It isn't the most important part of the book, of course, but it is nice when it is done well.

Birthmarked takes place several decades in the future, where society is dichotomized: the privileged few live in the Enclave, and they provide everyone else with food, water, and the Tvaltar (aka, movie theater). Gaia and her mother are midwives outside the wall, and their practice is ruled by the baby quota -- the first three babies delivered by each midwife each month must be delivered to the Enclave. No one knows why, but no one questions it -- without the Enclave, they would have nothing. However, when Gaia's parents go missing, she is determined to find out what happened and how she can save them -- even if it means breaking into the Enclave.

I had never heard about this book and picked it up when my nursing preceptor recommended it. While at first I was a little put off by the writing style (there are some redundancy and over-writing issues), the story itself was fascinating and the plot was rock-solid. I was first drawn in by Gaia's life -- ever since having my own child, I have been fascinated by childbirth, and the nurse in me was interested as well. Other medical details crop up later in the story, and while not everything is perfectly accurate, its clear that O'Brien did some research. I also loved the intricacy of the plot. There are many different elements at play, and they eventually weave together, but I couldn't see how for quite a while. It left me eager to get to the next part of the book and uncertain what would happen next, something that is especially valuable in an audiobook.

As I stated above, the writing did leave something to be desired for me -- it wasn't awful but there were flaws that particularly stood out as the audiobook was read rather slowly. However, Birthmarked was fun and exciting, and sometimes that is exactly what I need in a book -- something to entertain and keep me guessing. I am looking forward to the rest of the series. 

3.75 stars

Warnings: Brief references to sensuality, some descriptive birthing scenes

Mini-Reviews: Trilogies that are finished at last!

I have been following several trilogies that ended this spring. While some of the finales were satisfying and some were not, I love being able to cross them off my list!

The Goddess Inheritance by Aimee Carter (The Goddess Test series)

I lost steam with this series. Initially, I was very excited about this retelling of the Persephone myth, but the plot of each story seemed to become more and more muddled. I found Kate's attraction to Henry to be far-fetched, and the world building also felt somewhat scattered and disorganized. While I enjoyed seeing a new imagining of a myth, ultimately this series did not deliver for me. I think the main highlight for me was Kate's love for her son, something that doesn't often come up in young adult fiction.

2.5 stars

Warnings: Violence, mild innuendo, possibly some mild language

Sever by Lauren DeStefano (The Chemical Garden series)

I think The Chemical Garden trilogy has long stood out for its lovely covers. I also found the subject matter intriguing on multiple levels -- the human race is dying out early due to a failed attempt to genetically engineer a disease-free world. Rhine has been kidnapped and married to a wealthy young man, along with two other "brides," to continue the human race. However, her husband Linden's father, Vaughan, has some sinister intentions.

I think this series is well-done. Lauren Destefano writes vividly. The plot is interesting and fast-paced. The book causes discomfort and introspection with the odd situation of three young women sharing a husband. I definitely enjoyed Sever the most of all the books -- it is lighter, and I feel that we finally have the chance to really understand some of the main characters (especially Cecily). However, for some reason the plot points of these books do not last long in my mind. I definitely enjoy them while I am reading, but they aren't especially memorable for me after the fact.

3.5 stars

Warnings: Mild innuendo, some language, disturbing themes

Reached by Ally Condie (Matched series)

Reached was a final book that I wasn't sure would be satisfying. While I'd enjoyed Matched, Crossed had left me very dissatisfied, and I wasn't sure where Condie was going with the series. I think Reached was better than Crossed. It evaluated some important themes, such as how your heart can exist in two places at once, and whether a revolution will actually bring peace. I also enjoyed the medical aspect of this novel -- it was interesting to read about the research, the mutations of the disease that dominates most of the plot, and the way Cassia's ability to sort plays into everything. I definitely liked it. Again, like Sever, it hasn't really lasted with me, but it was an enjoyable read, and I think the ending was satisfying.

3.5 stars

Warnings: Mildly disturbing themes and violence

Requiem by Lauren Oliver (Delirium series)

The ending to the Delirium trilogy, Requiem, has been heartily disliked by most of the reviewers I know. I approached reading the last book with trepidation. Delirium and Pandemonium had both been powerful and completely devastating, and I wanted some kind of satisfaction at the end of Requiem. I will say that in some ways that resolution is frustrating, but I do think that the ending is right for the trilogy. I won't say more -- I don't want to spoil it -- but I think the end illustrates the entire message of the trilogy.  

Ending aside, Requiem was probably my least favorite of the trilogy. Much of the book was spent on the run and strategizing, which generally doesn't hold my interest well. However, I enjoyed the different tensions between all of the characters -- romantic, familial, political, friendships -- they are what truly made this book. I also really loved having Hana's perspective. I loved her character in Delirium and was gratified at her return in Requiem. I certainly loved the trilogy and will probably reread it at some point. (Anyone know if the TV show is going to take off?)

4 stars

Warnings: Violence, language, innuendo

Clockwork Princess by Cassandra Clare (Infernal Devices series)

You guys. I can't be rational about this trilogy. I can't even attempt it. It began with Clockwork Angel, which I thought sounded extremely weird but which enough people encouraged me to read that I gave it a chance. I was shocked at how much I loved it. It continued with Clockwork Prince, where my heartstrings were tugged to the breaking point. I have been so antsy for Clockwork Princess, and I have to say it surpassed all my expectations. It was incredible. The way everything worked out was so satisfying, and yet there were no cop-outs. The characters had to make sacrifices and suffer intense, emotional and physical pain, but the way things worked out ultimately had me regaling my husband with the entire plot (he is a very patient man). I also love the way Cassandra Clare worked in so much literature. The quotes at the beginning of each chapter were perfect, and I also love the way literature defines Will and Tessa's relationship. In some ways, this book is a guilty pleasure, with all of its love triangle drama and gratuitous demon destruction (um, Mr. Lightwood, anyone?), but there is definitely intelligence behind the thrills. And honestly, any book that makes one so full of squee is worth reading, in my opinion. I purposely have held off on The Mortal Instruments until I finished this series, and now I must say that I am dying to dive in (although I will definitely miss the steampunk element of The Infernal Devices). 

5 stars

Warnings: Gratuitous demon destruction, some of it gory; a non-explicit bedroom scene, mild language

Mini-Reviews: Young Adult Contemporary

Sweethearts by Sara Zarr

I don't know about you, but that cover definitely made me think I was in for a fluffy, romantic read. NOPE (read in Chuck Testa's voice) (you're my favorite if you got that reference).Sweethearts is about Jennifer, who used to be fat and almost friendless. Now she goes by Jenna and is popular and thin, but can't forget about the one friend that she did have back in the days of Jennifer, who disappeared after a traumatic experience that is alluded to in pieces throughout the book. When her friend re-enters her life, it causes Jenna to re-evaluate her priorities. It sounds like it could still be that fluffy, romantic read. However, it is not. Everything is awkward, and the entire premise for the book seemed implausible. I couldn't understand many of the characters' motivations. And the end of the book left me dissatisfied and with that slightly gross, off feeling you get about five o'clock when you've had a long day. Anyway, not my favorite. I will say that it was fun reading a book set in a place that I have lived -- I am a sucker for that.

2 stars

Warnings: Language, child abuse

How to Save a Life by Sara Zarr

I did have a more positive experience with How to Save a Life. In this book, a teenage girl's mother decides to adopt a baby after the death of the girl's father. However, she goes about it in an unorthodox way, finding a pregnant girl on a website and inviting her to live with them for a few weeks until the baby is born. The girl, Mandy, naturally has a few secrets of her own. 

I think the premise of How to Save a Life is as implausible as Sweethearts, but for some reason I could relate much more to this read, perhaps because of my recent pregnancy and childbirth experience. The characters were initially unlikable, displaying their flaws long before their redeeming qualities emerged, but by the end of the story I felt invested in them. Sara Zarr is also an excellent writer, and I think because I enjoyed this book as a whole more than Sweethearts I was able to appreciate her writing more as well. I also loved that the bookstore where Jill worked was called Margins. Ahem, could it possibly be Borders she was mimicking? I used to work at Borders and I felt like I was reading pages from my own life. 

3.75 stars

Warnings: Language, child abuse, some mostly off-page sensuality

 Second Helpings by Megan McCafferty

For some reason I can't get this picture to load, so I apologize for the lack of cover-age. Second Helpings is the second book in the Jessica Darling series. We were left with Jess's rage at Marcus Flutie in the last book. Now, Jess is doing things differently -- choosing different friends, different extracurriculars, and even finding a boyfriend -- one who is not Marcus Flutie. She is trying to choose a college as well. 

I have had mixed feelings so far about the Jessica Darling books. There are many elements of the books that bother me, such as the negativity and some of the gratuitous innuendo. At the same time, I love the openness and snarkiness of Jessica Darling's voice. She is stressed out and over-analytical, and it is something I can relate to so much. I keep going back and forth on whether I'd like to finish the series. I probably will read the next book, but I'm not sure how far I will go. 

3 stars

Warnings: Language, innuendo, off-the-page sensuality

The Reece Malcolm List by Amy Spalding

Okay, I'm just going to come out with it -- this is possibly my favorite contemporary YA novel ever. Ever ever. The premise is that Devan, who was raised by her father and (evil) stepmother, has never met her mother. All she knows is that she is an author named Reece Malcolm who lives in California. That is, until her father passes away and the evil stepmother doesn't want to be responsible for her anymore. Devan winds up moving to California to live with her mother. As she adjusts to her new life, she learns more about herself and her family.

I think what really made this book memorable was the characters. They all had so much dimension -- no one was perfect, everyone had their little quirks and annoying personality traits as well as their redeeming qualities. Every character felt so real and so genuine. The details of Devan's life also seemed so realistic to me -- I felt as if I was existing in her interesting little world. I loved reading about her performing, Reece Malcolm's messy and eccentric writerly life, the shopping and dinner dates Devan and Reece had together. Even though this is a contemporary book, I was completely transported into Devan's story while I read. This book was fun, with its share of drama and romance, but it also struck deeper chords, exploring the bonds between mother and daughter and the definition of what family really means. Definitely read it. Now.

4.5 stars

Warnings: Language, discussion of sex (not at all graphic)

Unbound Series by Eve Marie Mont

I was very intrigued by the idea of the Unbound series -- a girl finds herself in the midst of a classic tale. However, this series surprised me by bringing a much more satisfying story to the second book.

In the first book, A Breath of Eyre, Emma, an aspiring writer, finds herself transported multiple times into the world of Jane Eyre while facing her own issues with her mother's death, a classic "mean girls" scenario at her boarding school, and a complicated boy situation. 

Sound like a lot? It is, but Eve Marie Mont almost pulls it off. I really enjoyed the critical analysis of Jane Eyre embedded in the text, and the constant drama of Emma's life kept me intrigued. However, the fact that she had to be in a coma to enter the literary world led to several Bella Swan-esque situations of constant injuries and rescues. A Breath of Eyre was colorful and interesting, but could have done with a bit of tight editing.

3 stars

Warnings: Language, thematic material

However, while I felt a little iffy about A Breath of Eyre, A Touch of Scarlet really impressed me. In this case Emma is back at school after a summer of romance, but her dreams have gone away with the warm weather (cheeeeeese) and she finds herself in a compromising situation that results in a cold freeze from her friends. Meanwhile, she is studying The Scarlet Letter in school and finds herself transported into the novel when she runs.

First of all, Emma's literary travels seem more believable to me in A Touch of Scarlet. She isn't getting struck by lightning and landing in comas. Instead, she is running and entering a trance-like state. It's all fantastical, but in a more believable way. Also, the drama in this book is addictive. There is a lot going on, and I was completely absorbed, dying to find out what happened next. Finally, while Emma did learn lessons in A Breath of Eyre, I found the lessons in A Touch of Scarlet to be much more resonant. 

All in all, the series so far is unique and enjoyable, blending classics, contemporary, historical fiction, and fantasy. I am excited to see what A Phantom Enchantment will bring.

4 stars

Warnings: Same as above

If I Stay and Where She Went by Gayle Forman

If I Stay and Where She Went, by Gayle Forman, receives a lot of love in the blogosphere. I'd heard that they were tearjerkers and beautifully written. They definitely had a lot to live up to, and while they fell slightly short of my expectations after all the hype, they were definitely moving novels.

In If I Stay, Mia, a gifted cellist, is in a devastating car accident with her family. While in a coma, she is given the decision to live or die. While pondering this decision, she explores memories of her family, her love of music, and her relationship with her boyfriend, Adam.

If I Stay is gorgeously, gorgeously written. The novel isn't very long, but every scene is packed with emotion and vivid details. Mia's voice is powerful and distinct. The snapshots of Mia's life before the accident are organized in such a way to pull our heartstrings -- so I'm not sure why mine were so resilient. I liked the story, and intellectually I knew it was heartbreaking and beautiful, but something kept me from fully engaging.

3.5 stars

Warnings: Sensuality, language

Where She Went takes place three years after If I Stay, and is told from Adam's point of view. Despite the strong relationship described in If I Stay, Mia is no longer a part of Adam's life, and he is completely wrecked. Now a famous rockstar, the glittering surface of his life conceals turmoil and an inability to connect with anyone. However, one night Adam has the chance to revisit his relationship with Mia and try to find answers to why things happened the way they did.

I'm not sure if it was the fact that I liked Adam's voice better than Mia's, the fact that this story was told somewhat more in "real time" than If I Stay, or if it just takes me a while to warm up to a series, but Where She Went impressed me much more than If I Stay. I felt for Adam, even when he was making stupid decisions. I was also much more eager to find out how everything played out -- the ending of If I Stay was somewhat predictable for me, but I had no idea how Where She Went would be finished.

4 stars

Warnings: Same as If I Stay

Both books are incredibly well-written, and while I didn't have the emotional experience I had anticipated with If I Stay, both books were well worth my time. I am looking forward to reading Gayle Forman's future work.

Super Series Saturday: The Giver Quartet by Lois Lowry

I loved The Giver growing up, but never had any particular interest in the two companion novels, Gathering Blue and Messenger -- until I read the synopsis for the fourth and final book in the series, Son. Pregnant with my own son, I was intrigued by both the return to characters from The Giver and the theme of motherhood. I decided to reread The Giver and complete the quartet.

The Giver is a classic, and I read it several times growing up (although I did get sick of it when I had to read it a third time for school). Set in a society where everything is rigidly controlled and strong emotions like love are nullified, the young man Jonah receives a strange assignment with the rest of the children of his age receiving their occupational assignments. Through this assignment, he learns about the burden and blessing of choice, something that has been taken away from the people in his society. Something about that eerily placid community fascinated me from the first time I read the novel, and Lowry's stark prose vividly portrays the uncomfortable truths Jonah's dystopian town raise. While I certainly enjoyed the story growing up, I think as an adult it has more significance to me as I have come to better understand the underlying themes. It is an extremely powerful novel.

Gathering Blue initially seems to have nothing to do with the world of The Giver, except for the fact that it takes place in a dysfunctional society. This society is much more primitive, with rigid class separations, the ritual killing of those with deformities and illnesses, and a song sung every year telling the history of their village. Kira is plucked from her home due to her talent for sewing, and initially she is thrilled -- a new home, recognition, safety. However, she soon learns that those who chose her are restricting the expression of the people in the village, and she begins to see the importance of having that freedom of expression. To be honest, this book didn't appeal to me nearly as much as The Giver or of any of the other books in the quartet. I definitely appreciate its message, but the story was slow moving and didn't pull me in.

Messenger, on the other hand, was much more interesting to me, although it became slightly bizarre and more fantasy-like than the other novels. It follows Matty, a character we meet in Gathering Blue, and his life in a new village that has sought to cast off the injustice and rigidity of the many different dystopian societies that fill the world. However, problems are creeping into even the tolerant Village (utopia becomes dystopia...), and Matty's special talents make him pivotal in saving the Village and the friends he has come to see as family. Again, some of the elements in Messenger were decidedly bizarre, but it was much more adventurous than Gathering Blue or even The Giver and the climax was powerful and devastating.

Son, the final book in the quartet, had a very different feel than any of the others. The story is about Claire, the mother of Gabe, a character we meet in The Giver. Claire has the role of Birth Mother, providing children for the perfect little families in Jonah's community. However, something goes wrong with her birth, and she is given another assignment. What the authorities don't know is that Claire saw her son and has become attached to him, and willing to find him at all costs. However, the journey is unlike what she expects. A criticism I've read of this book is that Claire's maternal search for Gabe is something that kids, the target audience of Son, won't be able to relate to. However, I think many of Son's readers are those of us who enjoyed The Giver as children. With that said, it does have a slightly different feel than the rest of the quartet. It is much longer, for one thing, and also has that same fantastical element that permeates Messenger. Overall, it does an excellent job of binding the characters from the previous two books together and illustrating the overall message of the series: the importance of choice and loyalty to oneself.

The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen

Title: The Truth About Forever
Author: Sarah Dessen
Genre: YA, contemporary
Publisher: Penguin Group, Inc., 2004
Source: Borrowed from library
Read for: Fun

Macy is careful to keep everything in her life under her control. Ever since her father died, she has made sure that she is not overly emotional, not imposing on anyone, and that she is as perfect as possible. However, life seems to have other plans one summer. Macy's perfect boyfriend is at an academic camp and Macy is working a boring job in the library, but suddenly a new job and new friends seem to beckon her out of her perfectionist coma.

Anyone who reads contemporary YA knows Sarah Dessen, and from what I'd heard The Truth About Forever is one of her best books. While I enjoyed the story and went through it pretty quickly, at times the characters irritated me and a few of them lacked depth.

When I began the book initially, I found myself extremely irritated with Macy. She is so compliant with what everyone else wants, allowing herself to be trampled over by her boyfriend, her mother, and anyone else whose path she is in. She buries herself in a quest for perfectionism in order to handle her stifled emotions about her father's death and refuses to impose upon anyone. Fortunately, as she makes new friends and has new experiences, she begins to take up a little more space in the world, although she reverts back to her ways toward the end for a little while, which made me want to smack her back into reality a little bit.

The other character that bothered me was Monica. I know she was somewhat of the comic relief with her constant one-word answers and slow-moving silence, but I just couldn't bring myself to believe that someone would actually exist that way in real life. Every scene she was in felt just a little unbelievable to me.

With that said, there were also awesome characters, particularly Wes, a juvenile delinquent-turned artist that helps to bring Macy out of her shell. Sarah Dessen is known for creating great love interests, and I think Wes was a prime example. I loved the way he expressed himself through his art, the way he and Macy played "Truth" to find out each other's deepest and most ridiculous secrets, and the way Wes was continually true to himself and honest. Reading about Wes was enough to make up for my on-again-off-again irritation with Macy. Another favorite supporting character was Delia, the frazzled but likable pregnant owner of the catering company Macy begins to work for (and I could totally relate to all her late-pregnancy complaints).

I also appreciated the theme of perfectionism, both with Macy and her mother, despite the fact that the manifestations of it in the characters drove me bonkers from time to time. It was interesting to see the way both of their grief manifested in their actions and in their relationships with each other.

From my somewhat limited experience with Sarah Dessen, I think she is excellent at putting together a well-written book -- her plots and storylines move quickly and effortlessly, and she adds just enough extra detail to keep things interesting without bogging down the flow of the story.

While The Truth About Forever wasn't my favorite book, it was an enjoyable, light read.

3.5 stars

Warnings: Language

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling

Title: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
Author: J.K. Rowling
Series: Harry Potter #6
Genre: Fantasy, YA
Publisher: Scholastic, 2005
Source: Audiobook from the library
Read for: Harry Potter Challenge

Memories from the first time: I don't actually have any idea where I was when I read this or how I got my copy of this book. I'm not sure why it isn't one that stands out in my mind, because it is one of my favorites in the series. I do remember that I really liked it, especially all the romance. What can I say, I'm a sucker for a book with a bit of good snogging. :) 

Impressions this time: I definitely still really enjoyed The Half-Blood Prince. I think there is so much new information that we learn in this book about Voldemort and how to destroy him. The characters are also really having to decide where their allegiance lies -- they are becoming old enough to make decisions and not just be sheltered by the fact they are in school.

I also must say that I was extremely relieved by the fact that Ginny was awesome in this book. I have more recently watched the movies than read the books, and I find Ginny to be a little bit weak-sauce in the movies. She is always quiet and somewhat dull. However, in the book she is sarcastic, funny, and talented -- it is much more obvious why Harry is attracted to her. 
Best new spell: I love when Hermione makes the little birds fly around her head and then dive-bomb Ron. 

Best new character: Professor Slughorn is quite amusing with his penchant for collecting famous people and his love for the little luxuries in life. He definitely has his flaws, but I always enjoy reading about him. 

My crush for this book: I think we can solidly say Harry, in this book.

Most villainous moment: SNAPE. Even though it is all cleared up in the end, I remember the shock I felt in this book, after all Dumbledore's trust. 

New secret discovered about Hogwarts: It was interesting to learn about all the founders of the school and their particular objects, as well as the way those objects held a draw for Voldemort. 

Coolest new fact learned about the wizarding world: All the information about Voldemort's past and parentage was very interesting. I loved the sessions with Dumbledore when he and Harry viewed memories and put together evidence from Voldemort's past. 

Favorite magical creature: Well, Care of Magical Creatures is a thing of the past, so we don't get as much exposure to interesting creatures in this installment. However, we'll have a moment of silence for Aragog. 

Best argument between Ron and Hermione: The whole Lavender Brown fiasco. Let's be honest, this one is mostly due to Ron being a jealous idiot.

Deathly Hallows that show up: The Invisibility Cloak, the Philosopher's Stone is mentioned

Horcruxes that show up: Marvolo Gaunt's ring, Slytherin's locket, Helga Hufflepuff's cup, Voldemort's diary is mentioned

Coolest magical object: I think I've said this before, but I love the Pensieve. I would love to be able to immerse myself into someone's memories. 

YA Friday: The Opposite of Hallelujah by Anna Jarzab

Title: The Opposite of Hallelujah
Author: Anna Jarzab
Genre: YA, contemporary
Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers, 2012
Source: NetGalley
Read for: Review

Caro used to tell people that her older sister, Hannah, was dead. Somehow it seemed easier than explaining that she was a contemplative nun in a convent where her family could only see her once a year. However, for whatever reason, Hannah has decided to leave her life in the convent, and now Caro has to adjust to the fact that her long-absent sister is about to complicate her life.

I was drawn to The Opposite of Hallelujah by its interesting premise -- you don't often hear about nuns in this day and age, especially not young ones in their twenties. In most ways, The Opposite of Hallelujah does not disappoint, delivering an interesting plot, a hint of romance, and a lot of growth for the main character, Caro.

I'll be honest -- Caro definitely rubbed me the wrong way at the beginning of the book. First of all, I thought she was a total brat, completely negative about her sister and constantly breaking her parents' rules by sneaking out and freaking out whenever they asked her to do anything. Sometimes when I read books about teenagers, I have to silently pray that I was not that self-absorbed. However, Caro legitimately learns some lessons in the book. She doesn't have this complete change of heart in which she never does anything annoying or selfish again, but she does begin treating her family with more love and she also tries to do some pretty giving things. I really enjoyed watching her transformation, as well as reading some of the conversations she has with a scientist-priest from her church.

The plot was also well-done. The whole premise of The Opposite of Hallelujah is pretty unique, and I think it lived up to its promise of being an intriguing story. Hannah's reasons for both entering and leaving the convent are somewhat secret for most of the novel, and the Caro's process of uncovering those reasons is interesting. In addition, there is a great side plot involving Caro's romance with a new student named Pawel (pronounced "Pavel") who was absolute YA dream-boy material.

My major complaint with this book may seem like a small thing, but I noticed it several times and it was very distracting. There were several instances where a character would say or do something and then directly contradict it later in the book. For example, at Christmas Caro is so excited to give Hannah her Christmas present that she can hardly keep herself from bringing it to the dinner table. But on the next page, she says that she holds on to Hannah's present, saving it for last. This seemed jarring and contradictory to me, and there were several other similar instances in the book.

However, for the most part The Opposite of Hallelujah was an interesting read that examined religion, family, trust, and the punishments we impose upon ourselves.

3.75 stars

Warnings: Brief strong language, teenage drinking, some moderate kissing

YA Friday: Enshadowed by Kelly Creagh

Title: Enshadowed
Author: Kelly Creagh
Series: Nevermore #2
Genre: YA, paranormal
Publisher: Atheneum, 2012
Source: Library
Read for: R.I.P. VII

(Spoilers for Nevermore are fair game. No spoilers for Enshadowed)

Nevermore left us with Varen stranded in his dream world, with Isobel having severed his link. However, despite this supposed separation, the inhabitants of the dream world keep showing up in Isobel's day-to-day life and especially in her dreams. Desperate to rescue Varen, she determines that the only way to reach him is to intersect the mysterious "Poe Toaster" and find out how he travels between the two worlds. However, Isobel must face several obstacles, from her parents' anxiety about Isobel's recent odd behavior, to the demon Lilith, who literally has her claws into Varen. And as Isobel gets more entwined with the world, she is forced to wonder: does Varen even want to be rescued?

So before we get into Enshadowed, let me just tell you that Nevermore rocked my world. Even though intellectually I knew the romance was ridiculous, even though at times I thought Isobel was really annoying, even though I was left hanging in the meanest possible way, I was absolutely, head-to-toe, swept away by Nevermore. Ever since finishing it, I have been eagerly anticipating Enshadowed, hoping for some whisper of closure. I knew it was the second book in a trilogy and that not everything would be resolved... but I must admit, I thought something would be. Instead, Enshadowed simply spirals the reader deeper into the confusion and cliff-hangers. It is basically one long extension of the doozy of a cliff-hanger we were left with in Nevermore.

So, plot-wise, I was frustrated with Enshadowed. It took two years to come out after the publication of Nevermore, and I am a bit depressed at the prospect of waiting another two years to find out how things play out. Also, bear in mind that I am not so much frustrated with Enshadowed ending on a cliff-hanger -- I am frustrated that the entire book resolved nothing, leaving me immensely unsatisfied. It seemed as if the characters were simply dancing around accomplishing anything.

With that said, Enshadowed was not a complete bust for me. I think the biggest reason I still enjoyed it is that Kelly Creagh really is phenomenal at evoking atmosphere. Her writing is beautiful and detailed, and the woman can create a mood. Even though I felt like I wasn't learning anything and was impatient for more information, I still loved the imagery of the dreamworld creeping into Isobel's life. I don't know how to accurately describe it -- it's the same reason I was so transfixed by Nevermore. I just felt enveloped in this mood. It isn't as strong or as magical as it was in Nevermore, but it was definitely there, and I loved getting lost in it.

I also really love the characters. Even though there were a few that did not get enough page time (*ahem*VAREN), I still absolutely delight in Gwen's weirdness. I also really love Isobel's little brother, who does his best to act like a brat but who genuinely loves his sister and is amazing. Isobel is even growing on me -- she has her moments, but I love her determination to help Varen, even though at times I just want to shake her for ignoring the obvious signs. One character that was MIA that I had expected to see more of in Enshadowed is the character Lacey. I suppose I might have been missing something, but she seemed to be mysteriously significant in Nevermore, and she just dropped off the face of the earth in Enshadowed.

Also, of course, the tie-ins to Poe and his writings and the legend surrounding him were fantastic.

For me, Enshadowed did not live up to the fantastic experience that was Nevermore for me. However, I haven't given up on the trilogy yet. As I said, I love Kelly Creagh's writing, and she really has to resolve something in the next book, right? I just hope that it is resolved in the way that I hope it will be.

3 stars

Warnings: Very very mild swear words, some minor violence, scary imagery

YA Friday: The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

Title: The Perks of Being a Wallflower
Author: Stephen Chbosky
Genre: YA, contemporary
Publisher: MTV, 1999
Source: Personal Copy
Read for: Fun

Charlie begins writing letters to an anonymous person that he has never met as he enters high school. He has always been on the fringes of social life, especially since his best friend committed suicide the year before. However, with a new year and the encouragement of his English teacher and mentor to "participate," Charlie befriends Patrick and Sam, and begins a new experience that teaches him about life and love.

So, possibly the first thing you need to know about The Perks of Being a Wallflower is that it is the issues book to rule all issues books. We start out with a shy, awkward kid whose only real friend just killed himself, and then we enter into the realm of rape, teen pregnancy, drugs, depression, child abuse, homosexuality, and potentially Asperger's as well (it is never mentioned, but Charlie seems to exhibit some of the hallmarks). Basically, what I'm telling you is that The Perks of Being a Wallflower can get really heavy. There's a fair bit of pain and suffering going on.

With that said, despite the fact that my high school experience was relatively issues-free, I really found myself relating to Charlie in unexpected ways. Whether or not the standard "issues" are involved, adolescence is definitely when people start thinking in overdrive. I remember my Psych 111 teacher telling us that it was a time of developing "intense theories about the universe." I also remember being on the phone until three in the morning, discussing emotions and ideas about people that seemed like the most crucial truths to uncover. There was this layer of intensity and immense importance to everything. Reading Charlie's words really brought me back to that time in my life, and I found myself underling sentence after sentence. Everything was so magnified and passionate to him, and he was so confused about so many things, and I really enjoyed his journey.

So, this is my life. And I want you to know that I am both happy and sad and I’m still trying to figure out how that could be.

At times I did find myself a little frustrated with the plot, just because issues seemed to crop up page after page after page. I don't doubt that many people are struggling with multiple issues in their lives, but it seemed slightly overwrought with Charlie's story, especially because he was so hypersensitive. Most of the plot seemed congruent, but the major hurdle in the last few pages of the book seemed like too much to me.

I've also read reviews of Wallflower where the reader complained that Charlie seemed immature and simplistic for a fourteen-year-old. His language was very literal and at times sounded juvenile, but the thoughts it was expressing were poignant. I really think he sounded like he had Asperger's, which would also explain his social difficulties. I personally didn't find Charlie's voice distracting -- getting used to it was just part of getting to know the character.

Overall, I thought The Perks of Being a Wallflower was a powerful book, despite being packed from top to bottom with issues. Charlie's thoughts are often insightful and at times transcendently beautiful. The music and literature incorporated into Charlie's story further enhanced the experience of going back in time and remembering the thoughts and experiences of someone just beginning to find out who they are.

3.75 stars

Warnings: Strong language, drug use, references to sex, sexual abuse

YA Friday: The Brides of Rollrock Island by Margo Lanagan

Title: The Brides of Rollrock Island
Author: Margo Lanagan
Genre: YA, fantasy
Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers, 2012
Source: NetGalley
Read for: Review

On Rollrock Island, an uneasy past troubles the women -- past memories of mysterious women from the sea, of seals taking on human shapes. When young misfit Misskaella learns that she has the power to influence the seals to come to the island, take their human forms and entrance the island's inhabitants, she uses it to gain both money and retribution. However, despite the perfection of the seal-women and the apparent happiness of the arrangement, a dark cloud hovers over Rollrock Island, threatening to shatter the tenuous peace.

Did that summary sound weird to you? Because taken at face value, The Brides of Rollrock Island is an incredibly bizarre, twisted story. However, coupled with Margo Lanagan's entrancing writing and compelling characters, it develops into something mysterious, beautiful, and disturbing.

I have heard nothing but praise for Margo Lanagan's writing, and while I have not yet taken the opportunity to read some of her previous work, my expectations were certainly met, if not exceeded, by The Brides of Rollrock Island. There is a sort of lilt to her writing, a musicality, that made me feel as if I was inhaling a dusty, beautiful legend. In addition, Lanagan has an excellent trick of giving away just enough to keep the reader completely entranced. The Brides of Rollrock Island was told by several first-person narrators, all of whom knew certain sides of the story and made certain small contributions. Hints and rumors slowly blossomed out into a whole story, but not before I was antsy with uncertainty and curiosity.

I frequently complain of wanting more information from a story -- of feeling as if the author didn't give me enough to be satisfied. The Brides of Rollrock Island was also guilty of this crime on the surface, but it was executed in such a way that while I still had some questions and certainly wouldn't have complained of more history and backstory (my biggest questions -- who was the painting of? And why did Misskaella and Trudle have their abilities?) the answers are hinted at if not explained outright. And the mystery adds to the haunting atmosphere of the story.

I was also quite satisfied by the different voices telling the story. The Brides of Rollrock Island is not about one person -- it is a brief history of the island, and the many voices giving that history are all authentic and all participated in a different way. Missing, of course, is a story told in the voice of a seal-wife -- we do not ever get the chance to fully understand them, only how they are perceived by those who love but also inadvertently enslave them.

The Brides of Rollrock Island also raises some subtle questions about feminism. The brides are treated with the utmost love and devotion by their husbands and sons -- they are practically worshipped. However, they are deprived of any choice -- they are only permitted to experience life within the bounds drawn for them, which leaves them constantly aching. I enjoyed searching this subtle question out while reading.

The Brides of Rollrock Island is an interesting, unique little book. Beautifully written and with layers of depth, it is a rewarding read well off the beaten path.

4 stars

Warnings: Descriptions of nudity, a few scenes of moderate sensuality

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J.K. Rowling

Title: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Author: J.K. Rowling
Series: Harry Potter #5
Genre: YA, fantasy
Publisher: Scholastic Press, 2003
Source: Audiobook from the library
Read for: Harry Potter Challenge

Memories from the first time: So I was at music camp when Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix came out. I was fifteen and it was the longest I'd ever gone without seeing my family, and I was loving the freedom. The book came out the night before the last day of camp, and the counselors let us go to the university bookstore to check out the party even though we were technically supposed to be in bed. I remember going with this boy I liked from the camp and watching the movies in the bookstore. They were going to unveil the books at midnight and the boy and I found them hidden under this table. (We didn't crack them open, though -- too afraid of the repercussions). I also remember the next day there were all these music performances and some people were just reading straight through the recitals. 

As for the book itself, I remember not liking it very much in comparison to the other books. I mean, it's Harry Potter, and I enjoyed the series, but I was annoyed for much of the book. It is the only book I had ever read once. I think that has to do with the fact that Harry was so grumpy and that Umbridge was annoying not to the point of being a delightful villain but instead to the point of just being awful and my wanting to be far, far away from her, not reading about her. 

Impressions this time: Even though I had less annoyance with this book than I did the first time, I definitely have been less eager to listen to it than I have been to the other books. As I've driven home listening to it from the hospital, I've felt that same irritation at Umbridge that I felt the first time. With that said, though, there is a lot of interesting information about the wizarding world that is revealed, and a lot of new action develops with Voldemort's return. I think it is definitely an important book to the series and enjoyable for many reasons (like the DA and Harry's first experiences with romance). 

Best new spell: Ginny's Bat-Bogey hex is pretty awesome. 

Best new character: LUNA LOVEGOOD. Hands down. Although the voice that Jim Dale used for her was somewhat obnoxious. He uses this super gravelly voice, and I picture her as the actor from the movie, who speaks in this more high and dreamy type of voice. At any rate, she is absolutely awesome. 

My crush for this book: You know, ordinarily I would probably say Harry at this point, but he was kind of being a punk in this book. Despite the fact that this book is the first book where any romance actually gets started, my book crushes were in abeyance.

Most villainous moment: Umbridge is a pretty nasty villain. In particular I hate her method of detention and her sickly sweet way of delivering awful verdicts. However, I think the most villainous moment is when Kreacher is laughing about Sirius' death. 

New secret discovered about Hogwarts: Learning more about the Room of Requirement was definitely exciting. Especially the fact that it so perfectly equipped the person in need with exactly what they could use, whether that was dummies at which to fire defensive spells or mistletoe for a bit of snogging. 

Coolest new fact learned about the wizarding world: I loved all the different things Harry and his friends came across in the Department of Mysteries, such as the vase that contained Time, the veil of death, and the many prophecies. I also found it somewhat interesting to learn more about the bureaucracy of the Ministry of Magic -- there was definitely more politics involved in this book than in any other Harry Potter book.  

Favorite magical creature: The thestrals were very interesting, and useful. 

Best argument between Ron and Hermione: For whatever reason, I can't recall a good argument in this book, although I imagine there must be one. Maybe because Harry was busy arguing with people instead?

Deathly Hallows that show up: The Invisibility Cloak, the Philosopher's Stone is mentioned

Horcruxes that show up: Nagini

Coolest magical object: Frank and George's various shenanigans were all pretty interesting and cool to read about. 

YA Friday: Seeds of Rebellion by Brandon Mull

Title: Seeds of Rebellion
Author: Brandon Mull
Series: Beyonders #2
Genre: MG, YA, fantasy
Publisher: Aladdin, 2012
Source: Received from publisher
Read for: Review

**SPOILERS** for A World Without Heroes, book 1 of Beyonders, are imminent.

Jason Walker has returned to his own world in the midst of the conflict with Maldor, having discovered that the secret word he quested for in the first book was a fluke. Now he is desperate to get back to Lyrian. Meanwhile, Rachel is still in Lyrian, uncertain of Jason's fate, when she learns that she has a powerful gift -- a gift Maldor will do anything to seize.

I remember in the first book of the Beyonders series being stunned by how packed with adventure and excitement the book was. Seeds of Rebellion has possibly surpassed its predecessor. While I gave A World Without Heroes four stars on GoodReads, for some reason when I look back on it I remember having a mediocre experience. With Seeds of Rebellion, I was really impressed at how quickly the book engaged me and how much I enjoyed it.

The only thing that truly bothered me with Seeds of Rebellion was that for much of the first hundred pages or so, I really could not remember many of the characters from the first book. I remembered the general premise and many of the main plot points, but the characters were vague for me. I think this is partly because I read the book over a year ago, but more than this I think it is because both novels are packed with new characters. Both novels are somewhat episodic in nature, with the characters jumping from adventure to adventure and picking up many new friends (and enemies) along the way. While things slowly came back to me or were re-explained, I did feel that all of the information made the book harder to retain.

However, I did enjoy the characters and the adventurous plot. Although at times Jason seemed a little flat to me in this installment of the trilogy, I was very pleased with Rachel's increased powers and her growing importance in the story. For much of the first book, Rachel had to sit on the sidelines (although she did play a very important part in one section). In this book, Rachel is the genuine hero as she discovers her talents and the ways they can help the cause of defeating Maldor. I also enjoyed getting to know more of the diverse peoples and creatures of Lyrian.

I also really enjoyed the plot. The adventures were once again non-stop, making Seeds of Rebellion a very exciting read. It is clear that Brandon Mull has vast stores of imagination, because we go from adventure to adventure at such a rapid pace through all these different worlds and races. At times I wished that we could spend a bit more time with each one, but it was interesting to be exposed to so many different groups. I think my favorite adventure in Seeds of Rebellion was that involving the Forbidden Kingdom, a walled off piece of Lyrian from which no traveler can ever return, due to its infestation with the living dead. I love a good, creepy zombie story.

I also enjoyed Mull's writing. While the level tends to be about middle grade, this book feels more young adult to me due to the increased violence from other books by Mull (such as the Fablehaven books). One quote in particular stood out to me, enough that I wanted to share it -- I think the image is conveyed so poignantly.

Rachel had never envisioned such virtuosity with a weapon. It was like watching a concert pianist play an impossible piece of music, fingers flying to strike mind-boggling patterns of notes and to pound sprawling chords. No, it was more than that. It was like watching that pianist play an impossible piece with dynamite strapped to his back, rigged to detonate if he touched a wrong note.

Fairly awesome, in my opinion.

While there are certain aspects of Seeds of Rebellion that didn't work perfectly for me, I was very caught up in the excitement of the story. I am looking forward to the final book in the trilogy and the exciting conclusion that awaits.

3.75 stars

Warnings: Violence