Last week's reads

Last week's reads were a hodgepodge, as per my usual. If you read my other blog you know that I've been working on a Happiness Project, and many of my reading choices have been reflecting that project. (And one of them was for fun). On to the books!

The Confidence Code by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman

The Confidence Code explores, in a nutshell, why women tend to be less confident than men, particularly in the workplace. The authors explore biological, genetic, psychosocial, and cultural reasons, and find that they all play a part in the decreased self-assurance shown by women. They interview several powerful and accomplished women, and find that many of them still do lack confidence in some respects, but also go through ways that they have overcome this lack of confidence.

The book was very interesting, and I particularly enjoyed learning about the biological and genetic factors that go into confidence. It felt to me more like an informative book about the essence of confidence, rather than a how-to book of how to achieve greater confidence. While the book was interesting, I didn't find it particularly conclusive and felt it wound around the same point a fair bit, which is why it didn't rank higher than 3.5 stars. However, an interesting read, and just the fact that I was thinking more about my confidence, I feel, led me to act with more confidence myself. 

3.5 stars

Warnings: None

Love and Logic Magic for Early Childhood by Jim Fay and Charles Fay

This one came highly recommended by friends with well-behaved kids, so I definitely wanted to check it out. C. has rocketed into toddlerhood with a set of opinions and a propensity to scream in church, and I have been desperate for solutions. I found Love and Logic to have some pretty good ideas, although it definitely falls into the frightful trap of "if you don't follow everything we say to the letter, your child will end up in prison" that every parenting book has. While I haven't religiously adopted every technique or seen complete and utter success, I do think it is better than most. 

4 stars

Warnings: May get a bit cheesed out by some of the examples :)

Longing for Home by Sarah Eden

I have really been enjoying the books in the Proper Romance publishing imprint. Lately I have been craving some of the lighter, giddier style of books, and these books have it all without being lewd and making me uncomfortable. Longing for Home is the story of Katie, an Irish immigrant working in America during the time of the Great Famine. She travels across the country to work in a tiny town in Wyoming, only to find that the town is split apart by a great feud between the Irish and those who wish they would head back to their own country. Between her own dark secrets of the past and the turmoil around her, Katie has more than enough to deal with, but of course there are not one but two handsome strangers to further complicate the story. I found the plot enjoyable and at times unpredictable, especially in the matter of the love triangle. So often, the answer is obvious, but in Katie's case it is difficult to say, and there is a second book to further elaborate what her choice will be. My only issue was that the writing was at times circuitous and overly obvious. However, a romantic and at times intense story with a constantly twisting plot. 

3.75 stars

Warnings: Some violence

Women and the Priesthood by Sheri Dew

There was been a bit of turmoil among some members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints over the last few years centering on the fact that only men hold the priesthood in the church. Sheri Dew's book goes into the doctrinal reasons behind this difference, and explains why women are essential to the priesthood and have full access to its power despite the fact that they do not officiate in its ordinances. I found this book to be well-written and so clear on the doctrine. It was beautiful and definitely increased both my faith and my understanding. 

5 stars

Warnings: None

The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin

I've been hearing buzz about The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin since I first started blogging. There was a time in my life when I disdained self-help books, but that time has long since passed (and you should see some of the things I request on NetGalley, home of the most obscure and bizarre collection of self-help books known to man). With the stresses of work and home, I found myself thinking that I could use a little recharge and put The Happiness Project on hold at the library.

Most of the self-help books I've read in the past are pretty heavily biased. I can usually find a pearl or two, but usually with many caveats. The Happiness Project is very different. Rubin begins by saying that this is her happiness project, and that ours might be very different, but that this is what she did in order to plan to achieve greater happiness in life. That beginning attitude of not knowing it all but being willing to share really endeared the author to me.

The premise of the happiness project is that the author, Gretchen Rubin, began to feel that she wasn't living at her fullest potential of happiness. She had an abundant life but she often found herself griping and complaining, or feeling unsatisfied. She wasn't depressed -- she just wasn't as happy as she felt she should be. So she made a plan, being a very plan-oriented, goal-specific person (seriously. I don't think I've ever met or read someone as organized as this woman). She chose an area of her life to focus on each month for a year and made specific resolutions in those categories. She also read several books on happiness and applied the studies and information she gleaned.

The result is remarkable. She hits upon many areas that I (and I'm sure many others) need to improve upon, and she uses great reminders and quotes to drive the point home. Basically, I want to do my own happiness project, although I want to let the book sink in for a while and possibly read her other happiness-based book, Happier at Home, before I completely delve in.

I think The Happiness Project has something to offer anyone, whether or not Rubin's specific resolutions are what you would like to change in your life. Written with vibrance and honesty, this journey through a year in a woman's life is eye-opening, positive, and poignant. Go read it! Now!

5 stars

Warnings: I think there are maybe 2 minor swears. If you're offended by this book, you hate happiness (just kidding).

Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell

If three's a charm, then Rainbow Rowell has charmed herself into an auto-read for me, because I have loved every word she has ever written (well, I could do without the swearing, I suppose). But seriously -- she has yet to disappoint me. Fangirl is a fitting title for the book I'm about to rave about.

Cath and her twin sister, Wren, have always been a package deal. But when they go to college, Wren wants to room with someone else and assert her independence. She no longer shows an interest in spending time with Cath or working on fanfiction with her (if you're unaware: fanfiction is basically spinoffs of published works, unpublished but posted on fanfiction sites). As Wren explores her new life, Cath retreats further and further into her own fanfiction world -- but her new life just might manage to pull her out.

So here's what I love about Rainbow Rowell's books: Everything. But seriously, her writing is incredible. She is able to convey emotions in a uniquely-colored but totally relatable way, making her language both delightful and clear. Also, she has a good balance of humor and real life. It's kind of funny that Cath took a popular series (similar to Harry Potter) and made the two main characters fall in love with each other, and it's really funny the way she wears t-shirts all the time and has commemorative busts of them in her dorm room (much to the chagrin of her edgy roommate). However, she also deals with severe social anxiety (think eating nothing but protein bars for a month to avoid going into the cafeteria alone) and has some family issues that require her to act like much more of an adult than she is.

Rainbow Rowell also writes the most irresistible of leading men. Every one she's written about has been a "nice guy" that has warmed my heart, and Levi is no exception. Don't get me wrong -- none of them are perfect -- in fact, they all commit some actions that made me cringe -- but they are all redeemable.

Another element of Fangirl that I really enjoyed was that it was set in college. Over the last few years, there has been an outcry in the blogosphere for "New Adult" books -- books written about young adults in their late teens and early twenties, navigating the choices that come with college and early career. I've noticed that NetGalley has recently added a New Adult section, but every book I've seen there has basically been about sex. While sex is an important issue during those years, I don't think it is the complete focus of most young adults' lives -- there is more to write about. Fangirl deals with it, but it isn't what the book is about. I liked that it was a realistic book about a person in college.

Well, I think I've made my point. Excuse me while I go off to write fanfiction about Cath and Levi now. Ahem. (Oh, and one more side point -- I wish that I could read the Simon Snow books in real life. Even though they are basically making fun of the Harry Potter books with perhaps a smidge of Twilight thrown in -- I would enjoy them. Any fanfic writers want to put that together for me? Shoot me an email. :) )

5 stars

Warnings: Language, thematic issues (mental health, drinking)

Mini-Reviews: Classics

A Moveable Feast by Ernest Hemingway

This was my Classics Spin #2 read, and I loved it. I miss Paris every summer since my study abroad five years ago, and I have been meaning to read A Moveable Feast for  years. It is Hemingway's memoir of his life in Paris. Being Hemingway, he is rather sparse on the details and definitely focuses more on his relationships with people in Paris, rather than the city itself, but I still loved the atmosphere that peeked through Hemingway's experiences, as well as learning how he felt about his writing. Hemingway seems to be a hate-him-or-love-him type of author, and while I didn't enjoy him in high school, I have come to really appreciate his clear, direct style of writing. I tend to associate different writing styles with the way I feel after eating certain types of food (weird, yes?). Hemingway tastes like good steel cut oats with no sugar added but with some good fruit stirred in. Not a ton of flavor, but nourishing and hearty. 

4 stars

Warnings: None

Paradise Lost by John Milton

Paradise Lost is another book I've been meaning to read for years (seems I feel that way about many of the classics). I felt that I should read it because it has influenced so many authors, but I never expected to love it -- I just perceived it as one of those obligatory must-read-to-be-a-literate-book-lover things. I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed this retelling of the fall of man in the Garden of Eden, told in epic poetry style. It definitely took some patience at times, and I didn't get all of the mythological references, having read the cheapy version on my Kindle instead of a footnoted edition, but the beauty of the writing frequently took my breath away. While I don't agree doctrinally with everything in Milton's narrative, I enjoyed the story and was swept away by his fantastic writing.

4 stars

Warnings: Some thematic material but basically clean

Emma by Jane Austen

Emma was a reread for me. I read the book in high school or middle school and was largely unimpressed. At that point I'd read Sense and Sensibility and Pride and Prejudice and seen the movies, and I was disappointed in the lack of sweeping romance that I saw in Emma. It was longer than the other Jane Austen novels and the heroine was frequently aggravating. I decided it was just a miss for me and moved on.

However, a few months ago I watched Clueless and loved it even more than I had remembered. I started to wonder how well it followed Emma and decided to attempt a reread. This time, I adored the book. I'm not sure if I understand it better or if my sense of humor has matured, but I found Emma's schemes and character flaws to be endearing. Yes, she was imperfect and nosy and at times judgmental, but she was also genuinely kind, albeit frequently misguided. And the way the romance slowly swelled appeals to me now that I am past my hormonal teenage angst. I loved it.

5 stars

Warnings: None

A Midsummer Night's Dream

A Midsummer Night's Dream is also a reread for me. I read it for the Once Upon a Time Challenge. I've always loved this story, but I think now that I am older I can really appreciate Shakespeare's writing. Being significantly less eloquent than the Bard, I don't have the most articulate way to pinpoint the quality that I love about his work. It is just good. It's poignant and apt about human nature and I love it. Hooray for Shakespeare!

5 stars

Warnings: Innuendo

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: Fantasy and Dystopian

Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

I'm giving Fahrenheit 451 away for World Book Night this year, and since it has been many, many years since I first read it, I thought it was time for a reread. I would imagine most people are familiar with the story because it is required reading in so many schools, but just in case you aren't -- it is set in the future, in a world where books are outlawed and firemen burn down the houses where they are discovered. People are obsessed with their "parlor wall" TVs and go to sleep with "seashells" burrowed in their ears -- sound at all familiar? It definitely rang a little too true for comfort for me the first time I read it.

Fahrenheit 451 isn't really an enjoyable book to read, but it has an important message. And of course, book lovers will all agree that it is important to keep books, to keep the ideas alive, to not succumb to the mindlessness of  meaningless pleasure-seeking.

4 stars

Warnings: Some language

Child of the Prophecy by Juliet Marillier

Okay, so I've loved all the Sevenwaters books so far, but Child of the Prophecy might be my very favorite one. (Although it is hard to beat Daughter of the Forest, if only because it was first and it was so near perfection). Juliet Marillier's writing is so beautiful and satisfying, and I love the world she has created/channeled (because it is ancient Ireland, with some magic thrown in). Reading her books feels like I am literally transported into the story -- I know that is a cliche way to describe a reading experience, but it became a cliche because it described the feeling so well.

Of course, all of these things refer generally to the trilogy. What specifically made me love this book so much was the fact that every character has two faces. Everyone is so complex, and the characters are forced to make difficult, difficult decisions. The protagonist, Fainne, makes some very serious, awful mistakes. Characters that are pretty universally seen as "the good guys" have some dark actions in their pasts. And even one of the slimiest characters in the novel does something so honorable and tragic that I  felt guilty for thinking he was a sleazy guy. So basically, go read it. But read the first two books first.

5 stars

Warnings: Rapey scene, violence

The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater

If you thought the last review was gushy, you should probably go ahead and just skip this one. Except don't, because I want to convince everyone in the world to read this book. 

My first experience with Maggie Stiefvater was The Scorpio Races. And I loved it, despite the extremely bizarre subject matter. (Sean Kendrick may or may not have had more than a little something to do with that). After reading The Raven Boys, it is now official -- I will read anything that woman writes. 

I finished The Raven Boys in a 24-hour period, mainly while rocking my son to sleep. And during that 24 hour period, I almost wanted him to wake up and fuss so I had an excuse to go back in and rock him some more. Honestly, The Raven Boys was a perfect book for me. The atmosphere was exquisitely created, this perfect mix of haunting, chilling eeriness and beauty. The characters were all so poignant and alive, despite the fact that the book really isn't that long. The leaped from the page (another cliche that I am using unabashedly, because after all, this is supposed to be a mini-review, so it's not like I'm trying to write epic literature here). And the plot was so unique and so awesome that I was dying to find out what happens next. Bring me The Dream Thieves, please. 

5 stars

Warnings: Language, violence

The Girl With the Iron Touch by Kady Cross

I can't get enough of the Steampunk Chronicles. They are honestly just some of the most fun books that I have ever read. There are bizarre gadgets and menacing, creepy otherworld influences and dashing heroes and spunky, fierce heroines and it is just full of awesome. Is it brilliant literature? No. Is the dialogue sometimes cheesy? Oh yes. But I dare you to not enjoy The Girl With the Iron Touch.

4 stars

Warnings: Violence, rated PG fantasizing

Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl

I read this because there was a huge billboard of the movie right by where I live (gotta love LA) and because it was cheap on Amazon (so, so many book purchases happen because of this. They know what they are doing, those monopolizers). Anyway, I had no idea what this was about, so I'll summarize it for you in a brief fashion: Boy meets girl. Girl belongs to a family of witches. Witches are cursed and are "Claimed" for good or evil on their sixteenth birthday. Girl is sure she is going to be evil, but boy really likes her, so they decide to figure out how to change her fate.

I liked this -- I pretty much devoured it (and it is pretty beastly long). I have the sequel waiting at the top of my stack of library books. It has a unique setting, awesome atmosphere, and fun characters. At times it dragged, and Lena's constant freaking out grew old (which sounds harsh... I'd be freaking out too. But sometimes I got tired of reading about it). But for the most part, I really liked it, and I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.

3.75 stars

Warnings: Language maybe? A little violence. It's pretty clean overall.

Shanghai Girls and Dreams of Joy by Lisa See

Why did I wait so long to read these books? I've had Shanghai Girls on my Kindle for over a year from when it was on sale for only $2.99, but for some reason I worked my way through Lisa See's other books before deciding a few weeks ago, with the Chinese New Year and moving to Los Angeles, that it would fit right in to the setting. In addition, I have family that grew up in Chinatown and still live there, so learning more about the history of it was especially interesting to me. At any rate, both Shanghai Girls and Dreams of Joy were phenomenal reads and completely surpassed my expectations.

Shanghai Girls is about Pearl and May, sisters who are living the high life in Shanghai, the Paris of Asia. Working as "beautiful girls" for the handsome artist Z.G., they spend their time at parties and clubs, wearing beautiful clothes and eating the delicious, sugared dishes that Shanghai is known for. Until their father announces to them that he has arranged marriages for both of them to Americans in order to pay off his debts. This event changes everything in Pearl's and May's lives, beginning them on a journey where they deal with everything from immigration, war, muddled relationships, and McCarthyism.

Shanghai Girls has an incredible plot. Pearl and May live through multiple significant historical events, and Lisa See poignantly captures the way these events shape and change their lives. Nothing is clear-cut for these sisters -- their relationships with their husbands, each other, and the world around them are complicated and constantly evolving. The mix of a dramatic, powerful plot and rich character development made Shanghai Girls exactly the kind of book I crave. The situations Pearl and May experience are shocking, but even more shocking is their resilience and the way that they carve out meaningful lives from their struggles. I finished the book feeling emotionally exhausted in the best possible way. I should also mention that this is one of the few times in my life where I have set down the first book and immediately dived into the sequel (usually I like a little buffer so I don't get sick of the author's style).

4.5 stars

Warnings: Vivid descriptions of war, sexual assault, non-explicit sexuality

Dreams of Joy picks up right where Shanghai Girls leaves off, with Pearl's daughter Joy running away to communist China to meet her father. On fire with idealistic fervor for the People's Republic of China, Joy expects to find a wonderful new life. However, communism is not quite what she expects it to be, and she is trapped.

I loved Shanghai Girls, but Dreams of Joy blew its predecessor out of the water. Despite the fact that I spent most of the book wanting to beat a little sense into Joy's head, I was fascinated by the world it described and couldn't stop telling my husband all about what I was learning. I knew absolutely nothing about communist China under Mao and was shocked by the horrific oppression I read about. While much of the story was dark, it was also incredible and unlike anything I have ever read before.

5 stars

Warnings: Disturbing images, non-graphic sexuality

East of Eden by John Steinbeck

Title: East of Eden
Author: John Steinbeck
Genre: Classic
Originally published: 1952
Source: Personal copy
Read for: A Classics Challenge, Back to the Classics 2, The Classics Club, Banned Books Week, Chunkster challenge

John Steinbeck said of East of Eden, "Nearly everything I have is in it, and it is not full. Pain and excitement are in it, and feeling good or bad and evil thoughts and good thoughts -- the pleasure of design and some despair and the indescribable joy of creation."

What can be said to summarize East of Eden? In its simplest form, it is an allegory of the story of Cain and Abel -- but with a twist -- what if Cain had chosen to overcome his mistakes and his jealousy, had tried to rise above the fate he believed he had for himself and become a whole person?

There is so much more to the story than that, but I don't know how to summarize it without drawing everything in and writing pages and pages and pages about it. Honestly, I don't know how to write about East of Eden -- it is a book that means so much to me. I first read it my senior year of high school for a classics project, and I was absolutely drawn in (thank you to my awesome AP English teacher, Ms. Taylor, for recommending it in the first place). I loved the message, the depth of the story, and of course the writing. When we were talking about names for our son (who is due in 39 days, hooray!), my husband (who also had read and fallen in love with East of Eden) brought up Caleb, Cal for short, the name of the protagonist/anti-hero. It seemed to just fit, and we both decided to reread the book. We love the symbolism of the character, the journey he takes from an uncertain, jealous, struggling boy to a man who takes his destiny into his own hands and overcomes the forces of sin and circumstance pressing against him. I'm starting to ramble at this point, but perhaps this gives you a sense of my personal connection to East of Eden.

As for the book itself, it is so rich and vivid and multilayered. The cast of characters is vast but richly developed. I feel as if these characters are a part of my life. From Cal's inner struggle to the unbelievably evil acts of Cathy, from the philosophical journeyings of Lee and Samuel Hamilton to the muddled idealism of Adam and Aron, the characters fly off the pages.

While the characters give the book life, I think the greatest value of it is in the writing and the ideals behind it. The central idea of the book is the concept of timshel, a Hebrew word meaning "Thou mayest" that occurs in the Cain and Abel verses in Genesis. The main idea is that when God chastised Cain for his misplaced offering and killing his brother, he told him that "thou mayest" triumph over his sins. He had the choice to change his life and become more than he was in the current state. It is such a powerful idea, one that Lee, the philosopher-servant of the Trask family, calls man's "ladder to the stars."

In addition, John Steinbeck's writing is unbelievable, which is no more than what I expect of him. The other day my husband and I decided that in our opinion John Steinbeck is the greatest of all American authors. Granted, we are both scientists with no literary training, but we are also reasonably well-read, and that is our opinion. :)

Obviously I can't be coherent or unbiased about this book, and this review is nothing but a rambling on and on of how much I love it. But honestly, pick it up. While I can't promise that it will affect you as much as it affected me, I do think it is worth a read. It will inspire a lot of thought whether or not you agree with what it professes to be true.

5 stars

Warnings: Brief strong profanity, prostitution, some innuendo

Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillier

Title: Daughter of the Forest
Author: Juliet Marillier
Series: Sevenwaters #1
Genre: Fantasy, fairy-tale retelling
Publisher: Tor Books, 2001
Source: Gift from my mom
Read for: Alex Awards challenge, Chunkster challenge

Daughter of the Forest is a retelling of the six swans fairy tale. Sorcha is the seventh child of a seventh son and the only girl in her family. She loves her childhood with her six brothers, learning to heal and having strange encounters with the Fair Folk. However, Sorcha's life is turned upside down first when she encounters a Briton, sworn enemy of her people, and second when her father marries the beautiful but venomous Lady Oonagh. Her family torn apart, Sorcha begins a quest to save her brothers. However, her quest takes her places she could hardly have imagined.

I am not especially familiar with the fairy tale of the six swans, but I do know that Daughter of the Forest was a compelling and beautiful read, rich with descriptions and haunting mystery. I found myself completely enthralled in Sorcha's world and eager for the next installment of the trilogy.

I think one of the greatest strengths of Daughter of the Forest is the atmosphere. Marillier creates a world that is beautiful yet completely wild and untamable. The beliefs of Sorcha's family lend an eerie, mystical feel to the story. As Sorcha encounters the Britons, the atmosphere changes into more of the hearty, meat-and-potatoes, green countryside type of setting, but Sorcha keeps her haunting air of magic. The way the mood enveloped the story made it so powerful and entrancing.

Hand in hand with the atmosphere is the beauty of the writing. Marillier's voice is distinct and lovely, with vivid descriptions of the forests and the emotions of the characters. I felt completely invested, completely involved with Sorcha's tale. I think the ability to involve a person so deeply into a book that is so long and so different from my contemporary life demonstrates Marillier's remarkable skill as a writer, and I am looking forward to reading more of her work.

Another aspect of Daughter of the forest that was extremely compelling to me was the depth of emotion in each of the characters. They do not experience flat, simple urges and reactions. Instead, their experiences are complicated and their sentiments are reflections of that complexity. I  felt strongly about what Sorcha was going through, experiencing moments of anguish and joy as if they were my own, even when the circumstances were situations I have never experienced. The sheer emotion of the characters were transmitted exquisitely through the writing.

Daughter of the Forest was a powerful and lovely book. As a fantasy novel it satisfied me by providing an interesting world with magic, but it also satisfied me simply because it stirred my emotions and was beautifully written. I am looking forward to reading the next book, Son of Shadows.

5 stars

Warnings: Violence, a scene of sexual abuse

Les Miserables by Victor Hugo

Title: Les Miserables
Author: Victor Hugo
Translator: Julie Rose
Genre: Classic
Publisher: Modern Library, 2008 (Original publication date: 1862)
Source: Gift from my husband
Read for: Back to the Classics Challenge, Chunkster Challenge, A Classics Challenge

I know that I've been posting extensively about Les Miserables, but for those of you who haven't been following along with the in-depth posts about each individual section of Les Miserables, I thought this book deserved a few words as an intro.

Les Miserables is the story of Jean Valjean, a convict who reforms after a saintly bishop rewards his thieving behavior with an unbelievable gift and forgiveness. Trying to escape his past while building a worthwhile future, Valjean saves a town, rescues a young girl from poverty, and plays a heroic part in the 1832 June Rebellion in Paris. Woven into his story are the very heights and depths of the human character, from the most beautiful romance and stirring heroism to the lowest levels of despicableness.

There is so much to say about Les Miserables (and I know I've had a lot to say already) that I hardly know where to begin, so I'll just start with the translation. I was extremely impressed with Julie Rose's rendering of Les Miserables. I don't speak French well enough to judge how accurate or idiomatic it was, but I do know that I read an earlier translation several years ago and found the  book extremely difficult. While the Julie Rose translation was by no means an easy read (wade through those Waterloo chapters and see how you feel afterwards), I found it much clearer. In addition, the imagery was beautiful.

Speaking of the imagery, while I'm sure some of it was related to Julie Rose's skill as translator, it is clear that the majority is Victor Hugo's exquisite skill as a writer. He has a way of taking a simple emotion or experience and translating it into sheer poetry. I was constantly awed by the power and loveliness of the images conveyed in the words.

The characters were also extremely powerful, going through the entire range of human emotion and capability. I won't go into details here, because they are available in all the other posts I've written about this book, but I found so much to love and respect in so many of the characters (and so much to despise in others). I feel attached to these characters as if they are living beings -- in those 1200+ pages there is quite a bit of time to get to know them.

The plot of Les Miserables is difficult at times because the action is interspersed with pages of historical and political commentary. It is rendered skillfully and interestingly, but it can get a little dense. I think these sections are the biggest reason Les Miserables is a challenge to readers. However, the more plot-driven sections move very quickly. I tried to learn a lot from the historical sections, but I will confess at times they still went over my head. However, I think they are worth the effort in order to enjoy the book as a whole.

Les Miserables is a masterpiece, and I don't really feel up to the task of finding appropriate words to truly express that. I think anyone who takes the time and effort to read it will be duly rewarded.

5 stars

Warnings: Violence, some language, prostitution

The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

Title: The Name of the Wind
Author: Patrick Rothfuss
Series: The Kingkiller Chronicle #1
Genre: Fantasy
Publisher: DAW Hardcover, 2007
Source: Library
Read for: Alex Awards Challenge, Chunkster Challenge

When Chronicler finds himself in an isolated tavern one night on the way to a scribe assignment, he doesn't expect to meet one of the most legendary people in the land. He also doesn't expect to be offered the opportunity to hear the man's story from his own mouth. Kvothe tells Chronicler that it will take him three days to tell his story. The Name of the Wind is the first day, taking us from Kvothe's beginning as a member of a traveling performance troupe to his experiences in the famed and at times mysterious University in Imre.

I'm a sucker for a good fantasy novel, especially this summer, but I was absolutely blown away by The Name of the Wind. The world-building, characters, and small details made this not only a book but an experience.

One of the first things I noticed at the beginning of The Name of the Wind was that as readers we are thrust instantly into the world Patrick Rothfuss has created. While it was confusing for a few pages, Rothfuss is expert at weaving in the necessary details to make the world make sense without being overly didactic or obvious. The reader is slowly woven into the fabric of Kvothe's world, integrated into the experience without it being too jarring.

And the world itself is fascinating. There are different languages and groups of people, different types of professions. My favorite part, and one that dominates most of the novel, is that of the University, where Kvothe learns the intricacies of sympathy, manipulation of small particles in a way that seems very like magic, fabrication, which is engineering with sympathy, and medicine. As I have been in college for the last six years (and went through seven majors and two degrees), I could appreciate Kvothe's penchant for taking on more than he could handle and not wanting to be tied down to only one subject.

I also fell in love with the characters. Kvothe himself was very relatable to me. I loved how quickly he learned, how passionate he was about the universe around him, how desperate he was to avenge the deaths of his parents. I could relate to his absorption with music (the first of my seven majors was music), the way immersing himself in it was the only thing that could calm him down. I loved getting to know this character and can't wait to learn more about him.

While I'm talking about characters I could relate to in this book, I also have to mention that for the first time in my life, I saw someone else with the same first name and spelling as I do. Lorren the Archivist, protector of the massive library that blossoms from the University, made me do a double take every time his name was on the page. I appreciated that he was an intense book lover as well.

The secondary characters of The Name of the Wind were also vivid and fully developed, something that to me is a deal-maker with an author. If they are willing to devote time and space to create fully realized secondary characters, they are probably creating a story that is rich and satisfying to me. I loved Kvothe's close friends, his first teacher, his love, Denna. I couldn't wait to get to know these characters better, eating up every page.

The Name of the Wind was one of the richest, most satisfying books I've read in a long time. I can't wait to devour The Wise Man's Fear, although I don't want to read it too soon because I have no idea when the third book will be released. I can't wait to see what Kvothe does next.

5 stars

Warnings: Some language, violence, innuendo

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling

Title: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Author: J.K. Rowling
Series: Harry Potter #4
Genre: YA, fantasy
Publisher: Scholastic Press, 2000
Source: Audiobook from the library
Read for: Harry Potter Challenge

Memories from the first time: This was the first Harry Potter book that I actually anticipated. I remember reading the first chapter in the Idaho Statesman Life section and being so excited for it to come out. I didn't wait outside a bookstore or anything -- but I was thrilled when a copy fell into my hands. 


I also remember when I read it that I was absolutely floored by the fact that (SPOILER, but that is inherent in these Harry Potter posts) Cedric died. I was reading the book on a road trip to Idaho Falls with my cousin, who had already read the book, and I remember turning her and just looking at her with shock. For the rest of the week, we just kept looking at each other and saying, "I can't believe that Cedric is dead!" I think that was one of the first endings that just absolutely floored me.


Another interesting side note -- I totally used to associate the song "Stronger" by Britney Spears with Harry's fight with Voldemort. I don't particularly love that song, and I really don't particularly love Britney Spears, but I always think of that song with that scene. Hmm.

Impressions this time: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire is still the best Harry Potter book, in my opinion. I absolutely loved the Triwizard Cup and all the other wizarding schools. I think this book is a turning point as well from the books being directed to a younger audience to an older one. I love that the books grow up with the readers. 


Also, a particular scene touched me so much in this book -- when, for the third task, families are showing up for the competitors, and Harry feels awkward, worrying that the Dursleys will be there. When he sees that the Weasleys came as his family, I started bawling like a little baby. Maybe it was just the pregnancy hormones, but I loved that moment. 
Best new spell: Expelliarmus is a pretty important spell in this book. I also really enjoyed learning about the various hexes that Harry practiced to get ready for the maze in the final task. And of course, while we can't consider these the "best" spells, it was very interesting to learn about the three unforgivable curses. 

Best new character: You know, despite the fact that I really love this book, I don't as much have a favorite new character. Some honorable mentions are Ludo Bagman, Bellatrix Lestrange, and Rita Skeeter -- none of them are characters I adore, but they are all interesting. 

My crush for this book: Have you picked up on the fact that I have a thing for Cedric Diggory? Strong, silent, heroic, and handsome -- what more could you ask for in a man? Oh, he's a Quidditch star, and a nice guy, too? Despite the fact that he occasionally gets in Harry's way (Cho Chang, beating him in Quidditch, getting ahead in certain Triwizard tasks) I was charmed by Cedric the entire time.

Most villainous moment: Obviously, the entire Voldemort sequence is pretty villainous. I was also absolutely disgusted by Barty Crouch the younger's crazed tirade about how he killed his father, transfigured him into a bone, and buried the bone. I think I possibly missed that the first time around. Hearing it described by Jim Dale in Barty's creepy voice made me shudder. 

New secret discovered about Hogwarts: I think the whole sequence in the lake was very interesting. The lake is present in all the books and it was fun to learn about what actually lived in the lake (other than the Giant Squid). 

Coolest new fact learned about the wizarding world: There are other wizarding schools! In fact, all the other wizarding information was pretty fun, with the other schools and the wizards of different nationalities at the Quidditch World Cup. 

Favorite magical creature: Blast Ended Skrewts, of course. No, actually, it was really cool to read (hear) about the different dragons in the first task. 

Best argument between Ron and Hermione: In this case, the biggest argument is actually between Ron and Harry. When Harry is chosen for the tournament, Ron is jealous and thinks that Harry is going after it for glory. They don't speak for weeks. It is very relieving once they become friends again. 

Deathly Hallows that show up: The Invisibility Cloak. 

Horcruxes that show up: Nagini.

Coolest magical object: The Goblet of Fire is pretty cool, I must say. 

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

Title: Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Author: J.K. Rowling
Series: Harry Potter #3
Genre: Fantasy, YA
Publisher: Scholastic, 1999
Source: Library Audiobook
Read for: Harry Potter Challenge


Memories from the first time: So, I actually wound up reading this book second in the series. It was the one that came in second from the library, so it was the one I read, not knowing when I would have the chance again. I also remember that up until the fourth book came out, it was my favorite of the Harry Potter books. It is kind of unique -- we don't actually see Voldemort in this one, and all the intrigue with Sirius Black and Remus Lupin absolutely blew my mind. 

Impressions this time: I can see why I loved this book so much the first time I read it. Each Harry Potter book seems to grow up a little with the protagonists. Harry seems older -- he is learning more, able to accomplish more. I also noticed quite a bit the anger he has that his parents were killed and how much he wants vengeance for that. It is an element throughout the series, but for some reason it really stood out to me this time around. 

Best new spell: Expecto Patronum definitely carries the day in Prisoner of Azkaban. Harry spends so much time working to perfect it, and I love that he is finally successful. It is also awesome to me that he masters the spell despite the fact that it is very difficult for even grown wizards. 

Best new character: Definitely a tie between Remus Lupin and Sirius Black. I'll be talking more about Lupin in a moment, so I'll focus on Black for a second. I think Sirius is one of the most complex characters that we come across in the series. Imprisoned in Azkaban for a crime that he is innocent of committing, he nevertheless grows hardened during his time with the Dementors. He has some very difficult and conflicting emotions for many of the characters in the book, such as Snape, who is trusted by Dumbledore but who has a shady past. I love the way Sirius and Harry's relationship grows in this book. 

My crush for this book: I definitely have a thing for Remus Lupin. A throwback to my days of Twilight-crushdom on Jacob? Perhaps. No, actually, I think it is the fact that Lupin is such a good mentor for Harry. He is wise and steady and clearly has learned quite a bit from his experiences with prejudice and judgement. I loved the way he took Harry under his wing, and also the way he strikes at times a pathetic but brave figure.

Most villainous moment: This is pulling in elements from the fourth Harry Potter book, but in this one Wormtail begs for Harry to have mercy on him and not kill him. When Harry complies, Wormtail grovels at his feet and tells him that is what his father would have done. One short year later, Wormtail delivers Harry to Voldemort to be killed. It's clear that Wormtail is entirely self-interested and despicable. 

New secret discovered about Hogwarts: The reason the Whomping Willow was planted! It was made so that Remus could disappear to the Shrieking Shack when he transforms into a werewolf. 

Coolest new fact learned about the wizarding world: Hogsmeade, the wizarding village, is definitely an awesome place. I would love to walk around in the wizarding shops and see all the different people and creatures populating it. 

Favorite magical creature: This isn't really a creature, I suppose, but learning more about the animagi was interesting. I love Sirius as the large black dog and think it is very fitting with his personality. 

Best argument between Ron and Hermione: When Harry receives a Firebolt for Christmas, Hermione turns it over to Professor McGonagall in order to make sure it wasn't from Sirius and a trap for Harry (it was from Sirius, but not a trap, since Sirius is of course not evil). Both Ron and Harry were pretty incensed with Hermione for quite a while. 

Deathly Hallows that show up: The Invisibility Cloak. 

Horcruxes that show up: I'm drawing a blank on this one... were there any in the third book?

Coolest magical object: Not really magical, but I love that chocolate reverses the effects of the dementors. I think it reverses the effects of real life dementors as well. 

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

Title: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
Author: J.K. Rowling
Series: Harry Potter #1
Genre: Fantasy
Publisher: Scholastic Press, 1998
Source: Audiobook from the library
Read for: Harry Potter Challenge

Because these books are so well known, and all rereads for me, I am not writing formal reviews or summaries. Instead, I've created a little questionnaire that I am going to fill out for each book as I move through a reread of the entire series. Spoilers may occur.

Memories from the first time: I didn't want to read these books for the longest time because there was this kid in my sixth grade class that I really didn't like who loved these books. I don't remember why I didn't like him, or what finally swayed my opinion, but one day when I was in the library (where I hung out every day with my friends... I was that cool) I decided to read it. Naturally, the books were all checked out, so I put all of them (3 at the time) on hold. It was the first time I'd ever placed a library hold. I don't remember exact emotions when I finished it, but I know that I love them now, so I am assuming I loved it then as well.

Impressions this time: It was so FUN to read (er... hear) this book again. I loved being reintroduced to all of the small details about Hogwarts, and the way everything felt like a miracle to poor, unloved Harry. Reading this book was like rediscovering the series for the first time -- I felt a sense of wonder with everything.

I was also so impressed with Harry. I have always loved his character, but listening to this book had me thinking about why. I think I've just instinctively admired and loved him. Thinking about my reasons for it, I realized -- it is because he is humble but not sycophantic, strong and skilled but not arrogant, giving to his friends. He is perfectly normal in every way, and yet he rises above every negative circumstance of his life (and those circumstances are abundant), not in search of personal glory, but in search of goodness. He is genuinely good without being cloyingly perfect.

I also really loved getting to know Hermione again. As I mentioned in the favorite characters post of yesterday, Hermione is a character that I really strongly connect with. Ron and Harry really couldn't stand her at first (and she was obnoxious, let's be honest), but they learn to get past their first impressions and forge a permanent, awesome friendship. Despite Hermione's quirks, they learn to love her personality and her intelligence and her just-plain-weird obsession with school.

Best new spell: There aren't any "cool" spells that stand-out to me in particular, but one that proves to be very important in the book is "alohomora." (Spelling may be incorrect, because I listened to the book this time around and only have my own brain to give me the words). Without it, they never would have begun their curiosity about the sorcerer's stone, because they never would have seen what was locked in that corridor.

Best new character: Hagrid. Disregarding the fact that all the characters are new, of course. I love that Hagrid and Harry have this strong relationship and that Hagrid does so much for Harry. Hagrid is at times misguided, but always there for Harry.

Most villainous moment: When Voldemort drinks the unicorn's blood. That is a chilling part indeed. I know that later he attacks Harry and everything, but I find the unicorn's blood scene the most absolutely disturbing.

New secret discovered about Hogwarts: The Mirror of Erised, which holds the image of your heart's desire (and which Harry uses to get the Sorcerer's Stone and hide it from Voldemort).

Coolest new fact learned about the wizarding world: Well, this book is full of new facts, and they are all just as entrancing to me as they were for Harry. However, I will say that the concept of wizard chess is pretty awesome. I love that Seamus's set kept trying to tell Harry which moves to make because he was so new to the game.

Favorite magical creature: Norbert the Norwegian Ridgeback, of course! Poor Hagrid.

Best argument between Ron and Hermione: I can't remember what the argument is over, but I am very grateful that whatever it was caused Hermione to go cry in the bathroom and get attacked by the troll. Otherwise, she may never have become friends with Harry and Ron.

Deathly Hallows that show up: Both the Sorcerer's Stone and the Invisibility Cloak. It was all there from the beginning!

Coolest magical object: The Invisibility Cloak. I think half the events in the series could never have taken place without it.

YA Friday: Chime by Franny Billingsley

Title: Chime
Author: Franny Billingsley
Genre: YA, paranormal
Publisher: Dial, 2007
Source: Library
Read for: Fun

Briony knows that she is a witch. She knows that she caused Stepmother to die, that she caused her twin sister Rose to be dependent on her, that if anyone finds out her secret, she will hang. However, when a handsome stranger enters her life and a dangerous disease enters Rose's, she knows she can't hide from what she must do -- and the beings in the swamp that can help her.

This book grabbed me from the first sentence -- "I've confessed everything and I'd like to be hanged." Wow. I'd heard mixed reviews of this book before starting -- some said it was stunning, others that the writing was roundabout and frustrating, that the self-hatred Briony bears was difficult to stomach. I am definitely in the first camp. This book swept me up and dragged me along at a breakneck pace until finished, all I could do was hug it to my chest because it was over and I didn't want any other characters taking its place for the next few hours.

The writing was breathtakingly good. Briony tells her tale in stream of consciousness, without the bad punctuation (or lack thereof). Her sentences are formed, but her thoughts fly around and around, touching on random fears and witty retorts. I loved every second. I clicked the "Surprise Me" button on the book preview on Amazon, because I had to take this book back to the library, and sure enough, I got an excellent example on the second try:

"I don't like my shoes," said Rose.
"I'm wearing shoes and you don't see me complain."
"You only hear a person complain," said Rose. "Not see."
How has Rose lived for seventeen years and no one has ever killed her, not once?

After typing it out, I don't know if it really is adequate to express the amazement that is the writing in this book, so just go read it.

But, if you need further convincing, the characters are even better. Briony, despite her marked self-loathing, is sharp-witted and amusing. Eldric, her companion in the Bad-Boys Club, is charming and almost perfect, but falls into enough male foibles to make him believable instead of too-good-to-be. Rose is just perfect, and I can't explain beyond that, even if it does make me a poor reviewer. She adds a twist to the story that makes it richer and more mysterious. And the Old Ones are creatively rendered and bizarre.

The whole mood of the story is so strange and unique that it is difficult to explain -- a mix of the modern with the ancient, of simple village life with dark magic. I've tried over and over to describe the premise of the story to friends, and the words fall short. But there is an air of darkness and magic that is absolutely enchanting.

My one complaint with the story is that I figured out a major plot point very early on. However, there were enough other added elements to the mystery that I was still satisfied and stunned at the end.

Billingsley's writing style may not appeal to everyone, although I wouldn't believe it except that I have seen it reported in other reviews. However, I think this unique and compelling novel will win it more admirers than naysayers.

4.99 stars

Warnings: some innuendo, violence

YA Friday: I Am the Messenger by Markus Zusak

Title: I am the Messenger
Author: Markus Zusak
Genre: YA
Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers, 2005
Source: Graduation gift from the hubs
Read for: The awesomeness

Ed Kennedy is a loser. He drives a cab (illegally), pines for a girl who has gone with just about every guy in town except for him, lives in a shack with a dog that drinks coffee and smells like death itself, and spends all his free time playing cards, drinking, and reading. His mom can't stand him. He doesn't have a car. However, after accidentally stopping a bank robbery, he begins receiving cards in his mailbox, directing him to strange tasks. Some are simple, like buying an ice cream for a harried mother. Others are more complicated. As the messages and lessons intensify, Ed is left wondering who is sending him these messages, and what their motivation is.

I got this book the night I heard Markus Zusak speak and later found myself in the library at 1:00 AM with it in my hands, one of the last volumes that he signed. (I was going to take a picture of the title page, but I'm at school and then going out of town for the week, so... oh well). It already held a special place in my heart, just because of the circumstances that led me to owning it. However, it hovered on the TBR for months, the way books I've purchased tend to hover, until my husband (who read it shortly after we purchased it) asked me in exasperation, "Were you going to read that book I bought for you?" Properly chastised, I read it as soon as possible and was so grateful that I did.

Markus Zusak's writing style is decidedly strange. He is disjointed. He likes to write paragraphs with only one five word sentence. This has the potential to be annoying, except for the fact that he speaks exactly the same way, so it felt very genuine to me. He walks a thin line between being overly quirky and being refreshingly unique, but for me, his writing falls on the side of brilliant and impactful (which blogger informs me is not a word, but which I wish to use anyway) every time. His staccato sentences drive each point until they are firmly imprinted in my brain, until I am registering Ed's feelings as if they are his own.

This story is just as unique as Zusak's writing style. The situations and the steps Ed takes to fix them are not cliches, but they ring true to the human experience all the same. It is because of their variability and uniqueness that they spoke to me - because they felt so real. I loved the way the cards became more and more difficult for Ed to decipher, beginning with simple addresses and progressing to riddles that take some innovation to solve (the library scene? Priceless).

The other Zusak book I have read, The Book Thief, was heavy with emotion, and I am the Messenger is dripping with it as well. You can't have a book about making a difference in people's lives without giving it a hearty dose of human feeling. I think this is part of the allure of Zusak's writing as well - there is so much feeling present. It is palpable through the pages. I am the Messenger brought me tears more than once, and it was usually in a public area. It left me desperate for more when the train pulled into the hospital and I had to get off and start my day. It engaged me wholly - my heart was speeding up with Ed's, my eyes were filling when he witnessed something inspiring or heart-breaking.

More than the emotion, more than the unique story or the unique writing style, what I loved most of all was Ed's growth, when he came into the knowledge that by improving others' lives, he was shaping and saving his own. I think that is one of the most well-known secrets to happiness, and yet it is so hard to implement for some reason that I think very few people are ever truly successful. Ed was transformed from a nice, directionless kid with a big heart to a strong and passionate man with a knowledge of his capacity for good. I was inspired by this book - it made me want to make changes in my own life, to grow into the kind of person Ed starts to become and to bring the joy to people's lives that he brings. As Ed says in the final pages of the book, "I am the message." And he is - he is the message that happiness comes from love, not personal achievement or ambition.

This is a book worth reading, regardless of whether you normally have YA on your shelves.

5 stars

Warnings: Violence (beatings, mostly), innuendo, language (a fairly large amount, but no F-bombs)

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

Title: The Night Circus
Author: Erin Morgenstern
Genre: Fantasy
Publisher: Doubleday, 2011
Source: Library
Read for: R.I.P. VI Challenge

"The circus arrives without warning." So begins the magical foray into Le Cirque des Reves, a sliver of dreamland that appears without warning, is only open from dusk until dawn, and enchants and fascinates its visitors, often making them devoted followers for the rest of their lives. At the heart of the circus are two enchanters locked into a magical duel. However, as the circus grows around them, they begin to pool their efforts, creating sights and experiences that are more and more magical, until the magic turns inward and compels them to love. Who will be left standing, and will the circus survive the standoff?

The Night Circus is a book that has received a great deal of attention since it was born into the bookstore world two weeks ago. Already I've seen bloggers and readers turn away from it because of the hype. Because of that reaction, I am hesitant to say what I'm about to tell you. I don't want anyone to avoid this book because they don't want to follow popular sentiment or be disappointed in a story that is lauded with too much energy. However.

This book has firmly lodged itself on the hallowed shelf that holds my "favorites." In fact, because I am a weirdo and actually rate books and movies and songs in my head, I will tell you that it is now my third favorite book. So. If you are turned off by hype, please avoid the rest of this post. Please avoid all the other gushing reviews and glowing praise, get the book for yourself, read it, and come back to me. However, if you want to know why I loved it, read on.

Reading The Night Circus is an incredibly rich reading experience. The prose is abundant with vivid images and sensations - you can taste the chocolate mice (with almond ears and a licorice tail), feel the bite of the bonfire's heat through the chilling air, see Madame Padva's luxurious velvet gowns. You can feel the magical energy the circus is humming with on your skin. At the same time, the story itself is told sparsely. While every image is illustrated thoroughly, leaving no sense to be questioned, the pieces of the story fall into place slowly, told in scenes that happen sporadically, skipping back and forth between different years and characters. The story unfolds delicately. We don't see inside the characters' minds. However, once the final pages are reached, the loose ends are tied. You may not understand all the mechanics of the book, all the reasons why things occurred the way they did. Some aspects of the story are still shrouded in mystery. However, it was satisfying for me. The mystery was part of the enjoyment.

The characters themselves are also a delight. They are all unique, eccentric, and talented, adding different qualities to the circus. There is no villain (although Prospero is probably the closest thing). The characters are complex with different motivations. They all do good, and they all do wrong. I enjoyed getting to know all of them.

And of course, the circus itself. Several chapters in the story are told in second person, guiding the reader through the circus. I thought this was a very unique and effective device to immerse the reader in the circus. The narrative part of the story vacillates between the past and a more immediate present, but instead of being disjointing, the personal journeys interspersed between chapters gave me the opportunity to experience the circus for myself. It made the story personal to me - I cared about the characters and the circus. I wanted both to survive. I was fully invested. And really, wouldn't it be lovely if we could visit a place like that, a place fully devoted to experiencing beauty in every sense?

This is one of the few books that I read as slowly as possible. I did not want it to end. If I could, I would be a reveur and dress in black and white and red and follow the circus around the world. I would own an Herr Thiessen clock. Reading The Night Circus was one of the most positive and delightful reading experiences I have had in years, and I cannot recommend it enough.

5 stars

Warnings: Brief sensuality, there might be language but I can't remember