Insurgent, by Veronica Roth, is the sequel to the fun, thoughtful, action-packed Divergent. There have been mixed reviews of this latest installment in Roth's series, and I land in the camp of people who thoroughly enjoyed it. To me, the pace was in keeping with the first book and with the story -- never letting up, but not rushed. And the depth of the story never suffers from the awesomeness of the action. Like the real world, Roth's world contains a lot of gray - life is messy and complicated and rarely clear clut. But in the midst of that muddle, there's also a few things to hold on to as truth. And I really dig that.
The characters continued to grow and evolve; I love how complex Tris is. One minute, I want to smack her, then next I want to hug her. I often disagree with the decisions she makes, but I respect her, so I want to see how things work out. I also liked that we got to see Tris and Tobias fall in love in the first book, and in the second we get to see their relationship develop (without a there-just-for-tension triangle). We get to see more of Amity and Candor and the inner workings of the factions (slight spoiler - am I the only one who now pictures the people of Amity just being stoned all the time? Happy Bread!). I think it's worth noting that -- as my husband says -- this is the second book in a trilogy, and it reads like the second part of a trilogy. Some stuff happens, and one or two things get sort of resolved, but in the end things are possibly in a bigger mess than when they started.
bottom line - a satisfying second part to an excellent trilogy.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Thursday, May 10, 2012
A few books I've read lately
Wilfair, by Alysia Gray Painter
Redwoodian, by Alysia Gray Painter
These two books are moving onto my list of top 10 favorite books ever. A bold statement? Yes, but hear me out. They are quirky and odd, but saved from being too twee by their humor and heart. Are they slightly ridiculous? Yes, but in a way that completely speaks to my own ridiculousness. I smiled or laughed almost the whole time I read them. A socially awkward hotel heiress, her foul-mouthed best friend, two motel-owning cousins, extravagance, a road trip and a funky as-yet-to-be-explained magical mystery: these books aren't for everyone, but they are definitely for me. Read them when you're in the mood for something fun.
Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?, by Mindy Kaling
I'm not usually a big non-fiction reader - and even when I do start the occasional non-fiction book, I don't always read the whole thing. But I thoroughly enjoyed Kaling's book. It's loosely a "how did I get here?" book, with some funny randomness thrown in. And I appreciate her respectfulness toward the other celebreties she talks about in the book - even the ribbing and jokes are clearly in good fun, the kind of teasing that occurrs between good friends. Kaling is - or at least comes across as - honest, sarcastic, funny, self-deprecating, and refreshingly grounded.
A Land More Kind Than Home, by Wiley Cash
This is a debut novel by a North Carolina author (local for me!), and I've got a feeling it's going to be getting a lot of buzz and accolades in the near future. Cash's novel is set in the Appalachian mountains and tells the story of a heartbreaking tragedy of the death of a young mute boy; and as the telling of that event unfolds, the reader also gets to see the backgrounds and history of those involved in event. The story is told through three different narrators, and is written in such a way that brings to mind the rich tradition of oral storytelling that has lived on for so long among mountain people. There's a distinct rythm and cadence to each chapter, a way of meandering through the present and past that is captivating rather than distracting. It isn't long-winded, and no part of the narration is unnecessary. Cash's storytelling is simply beautiful. And despite the fact that it's a sad story, there's never a sense of despair or grimness to the book. Instead, I walked away from it with the idea that somtimes, in this fallen world terrible things happen for no understandable reason. But we pick up, and we move on, and hopefully grow and learn and become stronger in the process.
Redwoodian, by Alysia Gray Painter
These two books are moving onto my list of top 10 favorite books ever. A bold statement? Yes, but hear me out. They are quirky and odd, but saved from being too twee by their humor and heart. Are they slightly ridiculous? Yes, but in a way that completely speaks to my own ridiculousness. I smiled or laughed almost the whole time I read them. A socially awkward hotel heiress, her foul-mouthed best friend, two motel-owning cousins, extravagance, a road trip and a funky as-yet-to-be-explained magical mystery: these books aren't for everyone, but they are definitely for me. Read them when you're in the mood for something fun.
Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?, by Mindy Kaling
I'm not usually a big non-fiction reader - and even when I do start the occasional non-fiction book, I don't always read the whole thing. But I thoroughly enjoyed Kaling's book. It's loosely a "how did I get here?" book, with some funny randomness thrown in. And I appreciate her respectfulness toward the other celebreties she talks about in the book - even the ribbing and jokes are clearly in good fun, the kind of teasing that occurrs between good friends. Kaling is - or at least comes across as - honest, sarcastic, funny, self-deprecating, and refreshingly grounded.
A Land More Kind Than Home, by Wiley Cash
This is a debut novel by a North Carolina author (local for me!), and I've got a feeling it's going to be getting a lot of buzz and accolades in the near future. Cash's novel is set in the Appalachian mountains and tells the story of a heartbreaking tragedy of the death of a young mute boy; and as the telling of that event unfolds, the reader also gets to see the backgrounds and history of those involved in event. The story is told through three different narrators, and is written in such a way that brings to mind the rich tradition of oral storytelling that has lived on for so long among mountain people. There's a distinct rythm and cadence to each chapter, a way of meandering through the present and past that is captivating rather than distracting. It isn't long-winded, and no part of the narration is unnecessary. Cash's storytelling is simply beautiful. And despite the fact that it's a sad story, there's never a sense of despair or grimness to the book. Instead, I walked away from it with the idea that somtimes, in this fallen world terrible things happen for no understandable reason. But we pick up, and we move on, and hopefully grow and learn and become stronger in the process.
Friday, March 23, 2012
Review - Scorpio Races
Scorpio Races, by Maggie Stiefvater
from Goodreads: It happens at the start of every November: the Scorpio Races. Riders attempt to keep hold of their water horses long enough to make it to the finish line. Some riders live. Others die. At age nineteen, Sean Kendrick is the returning champion. He is a young man of few words, and if he has any fears, he keeps them buried deep, where no one else can see them. Puck Connolly is different. She never meant to ride in the Scorpio Races. But fate hasn’t given her much of a chance. So she enters the competition — the first girl ever to do so. She is in no way prepared for what is going to happen.
Maggie Stiefvater's latest book has been getting rave reviews for good reason - it's fantastic! I haven't read all of Stiefvater's books, but I did read the Wolves of Mercy Falls series. I enjoyed the Wolves of Mercy Falls, but it's true that this is her best work to date in my opinion. The story is both simple and complex, straightforward and layered. There is nothing extraneous in the setting, plot, world-building, descriptions or characters; but that serves to enhance rather than detract. I could truly visualize Thisbe, feel the mist on my face and the bite to the air. I could smell the salty sea and taste the November cakes (which, since Ms. Stiefvater has so wonderfully created a recipe for, I could actually one day taste!). I also love that while this book is fast-aced and full of action, I settled into it like a big down comforter. I could read just a few pages and be completely submersed in it.
Bottom line: read it.
from Goodreads: It happens at the start of every November: the Scorpio Races. Riders attempt to keep hold of their water horses long enough to make it to the finish line. Some riders live. Others die. At age nineteen, Sean Kendrick is the returning champion. He is a young man of few words, and if he has any fears, he keeps them buried deep, where no one else can see them. Puck Connolly is different. She never meant to ride in the Scorpio Races. But fate hasn’t given her much of a chance. So she enters the competition — the first girl ever to do so. She is in no way prepared for what is going to happen.
Maggie Stiefvater's latest book has been getting rave reviews for good reason - it's fantastic! I haven't read all of Stiefvater's books, but I did read the Wolves of Mercy Falls series. I enjoyed the Wolves of Mercy Falls, but it's true that this is her best work to date in my opinion. The story is both simple and complex, straightforward and layered. There is nothing extraneous in the setting, plot, world-building, descriptions or characters; but that serves to enhance rather than detract. I could truly visualize Thisbe, feel the mist on my face and the bite to the air. I could smell the salty sea and taste the November cakes (which, since Ms. Stiefvater has so wonderfully created a recipe for, I could actually one day taste!). I also love that while this book is fast-aced and full of action, I settled into it like a big down comforter. I could read just a few pages and be completely submersed in it.
Bottom line: read it.
Friday, March 2, 2012
Perspective - thoughts from the library
I work at a public library and I feel blessed to say that I love my job. Until recently, I've worked in the circulation department (checking books in and out, maintaining customer accounts, answering basic non-reference questions, taking fine money, shelving books, etc.). I have also done some reference work, and was recently promoted to a reference/outreach position. While I do love my job, let's be honest: it's a job. It's not perfect and some days are better than others. And some days, I just need to tell someone:
Things that annoy me:
1. The attitude "it's not my job" or, conversely "back away from my job." How about we all just work together to get done what needs to be done.
2. Rivalry between branches "they don't know how good they have it out there at X Branch." Or "Well, at Y, they do this. Why can't you?"
3. Condescension toward the circulation department. So often in libraries circulation is viewed with subtle condescension an with a lack of respect, I think because circulation staff aren't usually required to have a degree. But that's such a narrow and elitest view of things and really drives me crazy. I'd like to see what some of the other staff members would do if there was no more circulation staff.
Which leads me to today's thought: job swapping! How about you walk a mile in my shoes -- or in this case, how about you do my job for a week. Not just a couple of hours, or even a day. That's not enough time to get a real good view of the other side. A week. Maybe then we could all take one more step toward workplace harmony.
Things that annoy me:
1. The attitude "it's not my job" or, conversely "back away from my job." How about we all just work together to get done what needs to be done.
2. Rivalry between branches "they don't know how good they have it out there at X Branch." Or "Well, at Y, they do this. Why can't you?"
3. Condescension toward the circulation department. So often in libraries circulation is viewed with subtle condescension an with a lack of respect, I think because circulation staff aren't usually required to have a degree. But that's such a narrow and elitest view of things and really drives me crazy. I'd like to see what some of the other staff members would do if there was no more circulation staff.
Which leads me to today's thought: job swapping! How about you walk a mile in my shoes -- or in this case, how about you do my job for a week. Not just a couple of hours, or even a day. That's not enough time to get a real good view of the other side. A week. Maybe then we could all take one more step toward workplace harmony.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Unbreak my heart
I just finished my second book by Melina Marchetta, Finnikin of the Rock. And if Finnikin and The Piper's Son are any indication, Marchetta knows how exactly how to break my heart and put it back together all at the same time. Part of it is her ability to make me feel -- I connect with these characters, even when I want to smack them upside the head for their stubborness. Part of it is the way she writes relationships -- family love, friend love, romantic love. The relationships in Marchetta's books are real and good and hard and flawed. And Marchetta writes about hope. If there is one thing that will predispose me to liking a book, it's hope in the midst of sadness and despair. Bottom line: count me a fan.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Review - Texas Gothic
Texas Gothic, by Rosemary Clement-Moore
Texas Gothic is a classic mystery with a paranormal twist. Amy and her sister Phin come from a family of witches and psychics, although Amy would prefer to keep that part of her life hidden. The two are spending the summer taking care of their aunt's herb farm in the middle of the Texas hill country, and at first, all Amy has to worry about are the tree-climbing goats are her sister's experiments. Soon, however, Amy is caught up in a conflict with (extremely attractive) owner of the neighboring ranch; rumors of ghosts; actual accidents and injuries; and a personal haunting by a spirit who may want to help her or hurt her.
I really enjoyed Texas Gothic. I liked the blending of traditional mystery with ghost story, and I thought the pacing felt right on. Although the resolution of the mystery wasn't anything groundbreaking, the "getting there" was interesting enough that I didn't need a big shocking ending. I enjoyed watching Amy struggle with the part of her life that she wanted to pretend didn't exist, and grow as a result of that struggle. I liked that the romantic part of the story fit in well with the rest of the plot and didn't overshadow it or seem like an afterthought; the antagonism and attraction between Amy and Ben felt natural. And it was nice to visit Texas!
Bottom line: a great read for anyone who enjoys mystery with a side of paranormal activity.
Texas Gothic is a classic mystery with a paranormal twist. Amy and her sister Phin come from a family of witches and psychics, although Amy would prefer to keep that part of her life hidden. The two are spending the summer taking care of their aunt's herb farm in the middle of the Texas hill country, and at first, all Amy has to worry about are the tree-climbing goats are her sister's experiments. Soon, however, Amy is caught up in a conflict with (extremely attractive) owner of the neighboring ranch; rumors of ghosts; actual accidents and injuries; and a personal haunting by a spirit who may want to help her or hurt her.
I really enjoyed Texas Gothic. I liked the blending of traditional mystery with ghost story, and I thought the pacing felt right on. Although the resolution of the mystery wasn't anything groundbreaking, the "getting there" was interesting enough that I didn't need a big shocking ending. I enjoyed watching Amy struggle with the part of her life that she wanted to pretend didn't exist, and grow as a result of that struggle. I liked that the romantic part of the story fit in well with the rest of the plot and didn't overshadow it or seem like an afterthought; the antagonism and attraction between Amy and Ben felt natural. And it was nice to visit Texas!
Bottom line: a great read for anyone who enjoys mystery with a side of paranormal activity.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Mini Reviews
Lola and the Boy Next Door, by Stephanie Perkins is a delightful contemporary YA romance. The characters are fun, quirky without being overdone, and believable. The romance is believable, sweet but also pretty sizzling. I enjoyed visiting San Fransicso through the book -- it felt like visiting with a local, not a tourist. And the story never left me bored or skimming to get to the "good parts." It was all good parts! I liked Perkins' first book Anna and the French Kiss, but actually enjoyed Lola even more. Bottom line - a feel-good rom-com with plenty of heart and emotion.
The Piper's Son, by Melinda Marchetta is a great story of redemption and family and love in many forms. From a somewhat superficial standpoint, I liked that it was a YA book featuring post-high school young adults. People navigating life "after." I also liked that the primary secondary character (is that a thing?) was Tom's aunt -- an adult! Who isn't a stock character or plot device! Bottom line - this book has so many things I love: humor, depth, heart, love, redemption, and an ending that's just a beginning.
Room with a View, by E.M. Forster proved to be a comfort-food read along the lines of Jane Austen or L.M. Montgomery. Quiet and thoughtful, yet witty and full of keen human observation. Philosophical but unpretentious. The story moved along and kept you wanting to know what would happen, but it didn't rush. The cast of characters may have been a bit expected -- the conventional mother, the whimsical brother, the maiden aunt, the "vulgar" old country man, the pretentions Londonite, the stuffy clergyman and the kind clergyman -- but rather than fell cliche, they just felt familier, like old friends. And the love story truly resonated. As a bonus - Florence! I'm predisposed to love anything featuring Italy, and Forster didn't dissapoint. Bottom line - it's a classic for a reason.
The Piper's Son, by Melinda Marchetta is a great story of redemption and family and love in many forms. From a somewhat superficial standpoint, I liked that it was a YA book featuring post-high school young adults. People navigating life "after." I also liked that the primary secondary character (is that a thing?) was Tom's aunt -- an adult! Who isn't a stock character or plot device! Bottom line - this book has so many things I love: humor, depth, heart, love, redemption, and an ending that's just a beginning.
Room with a View, by E.M. Forster proved to be a comfort-food read along the lines of Jane Austen or L.M. Montgomery. Quiet and thoughtful, yet witty and full of keen human observation. Philosophical but unpretentious. The story moved along and kept you wanting to know what would happen, but it didn't rush. The cast of characters may have been a bit expected -- the conventional mother, the whimsical brother, the maiden aunt, the "vulgar" old country man, the pretentions Londonite, the stuffy clergyman and the kind clergyman -- but rather than fell cliche, they just felt familier, like old friends. And the love story truly resonated. As a bonus - Florence! I'm predisposed to love anything featuring Italy, and Forster didn't dissapoint. Bottom line - it's a classic for a reason.
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