Author: Nathaniel Hawthorne
Copyright Date: 1850
It's time for me to read a classic, so I chose The Scarlet Letter. I chose it because my fellow friend and blogger losingsleep chose it, and she really liked it. I'd read a couple different synopses on it, and it sounded like something I'd like, because chances are, if this book was set in the 'now' times, then I'd definitely read it.
Based on what I've heard it about it, I expect to be good. It's a highly regarded book, and the story behind it is really interesting. I mean, who doesn't love their classic story of a woman, Hester Prynne, committing adultery, getting pregnant, and risking death? Ultimately, I expect it to be good BECAUSE of everything I've heard about it. With a book that most people seem to either really like or really hate, I might as well pick a side to begin with and make my decision as I read along.
From what I've read so far, the book is going a little bit slow, but I still like it. I assume that more interesting things will happen as the book progresses to keep me interested. So as of now, it's living up to my expectations, but only time will tell if I really do like the book.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Sharp Objects - En Finale
The book was AMAZING! The close of it was extremely satisfactory, and took a turn that I wasn't expecting at all. The way the murder was solved was so different from what I had come up with in my own head. I kept trying to solve the murders in my own head the whole time, but everytime I thought I had it, a new development took place.
There were some points in the book that made me squirm, but that made me like it even more! for instance, in the murders, the little girls who murdered had all of their teeth ripped out... EVERYTIME I read about that I couldn't help but shudder.
I'm not so usually into murder mystery books, it's just books that have murder in them that get me interested, but this book has got me wanting to read more murder mysteries. This one just played out in the perfect way, and contained everything I like in a book. I mean, even Stephen King liked it, so it's got to be good!
If you enjoy any of the things I do, or even Murder Mysteries in general, you should definitely read this book!
There were some points in the book that made me squirm, but that made me like it even more! for instance, in the murders, the little girls who murdered had all of their teeth ripped out... EVERYTIME I read about that I couldn't help but shudder.
I'm not so usually into murder mystery books, it's just books that have murder in them that get me interested, but this book has got me wanting to read more murder mysteries. This one just played out in the perfect way, and contained everything I like in a book. I mean, even Stephen King liked it, so it's got to be good!
If you enjoy any of the things I do, or even Murder Mysteries in general, you should definitely read this book!
Sharp Objects - 2
Not to make myself sound weird... but truth be told I chose the book because of its content, I mean, the title alone got me. The book itself is about a girl, who at one point in her life cut herself, but she's not a reporter. Her editor sent her back to her hometown to do a report on the murder of two young girls that took place there. Just from reading the inside flap of the book I knew I'd enjoy it, plus it was on sale :P
I had high expectations for this book, it held all of the requirements I enjoy in a book: drama, murder, a case of self harm, etc. With all of those elements, the book definitely met my expectations. I'll usually read a book that just had one of those elements, but this one had all three, so I was even more excited to start reading it. As I said, the book did meet what I had set up for it in my head, even at the halfway mark of the book, I was far beyond hooked in. The book progressed in a way where you thought you'd figured out the conclusion, but then something new happens that digs you in further.
I had high expectations for this book, it held all of the requirements I enjoy in a book: drama, murder, a case of self harm, etc. With all of those elements, the book definitely met my expectations. I'll usually read a book that just had one of those elements, but this one had all three, so I was even more excited to start reading it. As I said, the book did meet what I had set up for it in my head, even at the halfway mark of the book, I was far beyond hooked in. The book progressed in a way where you thought you'd figured out the conclusion, but then something new happens that digs you in further.
Monday, November 24, 2008
The Gospel According to Sharp Objects
This blog will be in two parts, one related to me finishing the Beatles book, and the other to me starting my new book Sharp Objects.
Part One:
When I finished the Beatles book, I wasn't surprised at the ending, but I wasn't diappointed either. I'd predicted tha John Lennon was Steve Turner's favorite Beatle and that he valued him and his opinions the most. Well, I was right about that. The whole last chapter of the book was dedicated to him. It discussed his death, and the impact it had on Steve Turner. He could recall exactly where he was and what he was doing when it happened, I guess John meant that much to him.
Like in other parts of the book, he did mention the 'Beatles are more famous than Jesus' incident for the last time, only to give a timeline to compare that and his death. He even went as far as to bring up what he was doing the day before John was murdered, and that was reading a Playboy magazine that featured and in-depth interview with him. John truly meant a lot to Steve Turner
Part Two:
Title: Sharp Objects
Author: Gillian Flynn
Written: 2006
This book takes the reader through the life of Camille Preaker after she's come out of a mental hospital. She is/was a self-injurer, which is why she was placed in the hospital, I'm not sure if she continued this after she got out of the hospital, but time will tell.
Camille works for a newspaper, and is sent to her hometown to work on a story about the murder of a young girl. As she's back in her town she makes a connection with the victims that's too close to home for her.
I chose this book because issues such as the one is this book intrigue me, not that I'm interested it any way, it's just something that's interesting to read. I expect that the book will keep me interested, and reveal some interesting things about Camille's life and what kind of affect doing this story has on her life.
As I read further I plan to be thoroughly involved in the story.
Part One:
When I finished the Beatles book, I wasn't surprised at the ending, but I wasn't diappointed either. I'd predicted tha John Lennon was Steve Turner's favorite Beatle and that he valued him and his opinions the most. Well, I was right about that. The whole last chapter of the book was dedicated to him. It discussed his death, and the impact it had on Steve Turner. He could recall exactly where he was and what he was doing when it happened, I guess John meant that much to him.
Like in other parts of the book, he did mention the 'Beatles are more famous than Jesus' incident for the last time, only to give a timeline to compare that and his death. He even went as far as to bring up what he was doing the day before John was murdered, and that was reading a Playboy magazine that featured and in-depth interview with him. John truly meant a lot to Steve Turner
Part Two:
Title: Sharp Objects
Author: Gillian Flynn
Written: 2006
This book takes the reader through the life of Camille Preaker after she's come out of a mental hospital. She is/was a self-injurer, which is why she was placed in the hospital, I'm not sure if she continued this after she got out of the hospital, but time will tell.
Camille works for a newspaper, and is sent to her hometown to work on a story about the murder of a young girl. As she's back in her town she makes a connection with the victims that's too close to home for her.
I chose this book because issues such as the one is this book intrigue me, not that I'm interested it any way, it's just something that's interesting to read. I expect that the book will keep me interested, and reveal some interesting things about Camille's life and what kind of affect doing this story has on her life.
As I read further I plan to be thoroughly involved in the story.
The Gospel According To The Beatles - 6
I'm coming very close to finishing this book, which will most likely happen by the time the next blog is up. This particular blog question should've been addressed a few blogs ago, but later is better than never.
I like the Beatles, plain and simple, which is why I chose this book. I found the title the most intriguing, because it called to me, and I'd never seen anything associated with the Beatles called a 'gospel', not even one of their songs. That in general brought the book to my attention. Once I read the inside cover, I wanted to read it even more because it included things in which specifically interested me in them, like the meaning behind their songs, and the drugs that they did.
I expected the book to answer most, if not all the questions I had pertaining to the Beatles. I expected this because the books is ABOUT the Beatles, therefore it would only make sense. There weren't many questions I had about the Beatles, but the few that I had were successfully answered in reading the book. Since that happened, the book successfully reached my expectations and I'm not even finished with the book yet.
I like the Beatles, plain and simple, which is why I chose this book. I found the title the most intriguing, because it called to me, and I'd never seen anything associated with the Beatles called a 'gospel', not even one of their songs. That in general brought the book to my attention. Once I read the inside cover, I wanted to read it even more because it included things in which specifically interested me in them, like the meaning behind their songs, and the drugs that they did.
I expected the book to answer most, if not all the questions I had pertaining to the Beatles. I expected this because the books is ABOUT the Beatles, therefore it would only make sense. There weren't many questions I had about the Beatles, but the few that I had were successfully answered in reading the book. Since that happened, the book successfully reached my expectations and I'm not even finished with the book yet.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
The Gospel According To The Beatles - 5
As with any person writing book, they go to target a specific audience, and in Steve Turner's case, he's definitely targeting Beatles fans, no doubt. You wouldn't write a book about such a specific thing if you didn't want a specific audience to read it. The Beatles are such an influential band, that I can see why Steve Turner chose to write about them, and those who choose to read the book will generally feel the same that the author does.
I'm about done with the book, and was expecting Steve Tuner to be done talking about John Lennon and his comment, but he seems to connect it with EVERYTHING even if it's simply just the timing of the whole thing. I understand it was a big thing in their history, but I'm just thinking that there are other things to elaborate on, because there are other things that he talks about in detail, but may never mention again. I guess Steve Turner feels very strongly about not only John Lennon, but the things that he does, controversial or not.
The drugs are ever-present, and their music is constantly changing. They've lost some fans, and some of their others are even more devoted now. The Beatles are truly an influential band and so many people follow them. The fact that in 2008 a 17 year-old like me can be as into them as a 17 year-old from their time amazes me. They'll last forever!
I'm about done with the book, and was expecting Steve Tuner to be done talking about John Lennon and his comment, but he seems to connect it with EVERYTHING even if it's simply just the timing of the whole thing. I understand it was a big thing in their history, but I'm just thinking that there are other things to elaborate on, because there are other things that he talks about in detail, but may never mention again. I guess Steve Turner feels very strongly about not only John Lennon, but the things that he does, controversial or not.
The drugs are ever-present, and their music is constantly changing. They've lost some fans, and some of their others are even more devoted now. The Beatles are truly an influential band and so many people follow them. The fact that in 2008 a 17 year-old like me can be as into them as a 17 year-old from their time amazes me. They'll last forever!
Sunday, November 16, 2008
The Gospel According To The Beatles - 4
In response to CMCenglish, I think that Steve Turner focuses on the John Lennon controversy so much because it may have been part of his motivation for writing the book, because he refers to the issue as "John's Gospel" and the cover over the book shows John as the front man, when it's usually Paul in most pictures. This leads me to think that John is not only his favorite Beatle, but that he may agree with statement he made regarding Christianity.
Also, I'd say that the devotion a Beatles fan has is similar to being in a cult, because during Beatlemania, the fans were serious about their devotion. There's no doubt that when people heard about them trying drugs, their fans didn't go out and try it themselves so they'd seem even closer to them.
From what I can tell, Steve Turner has a 'special' place for the Beatles, which is why he wrote this book. You don't write a book about something you hate unless you're writing for the purpose of dissing it, which is definitely not what he's doing. He seems very passionate about them, and sets out to tell their story in a way they would want it told. The way he talks about them, you can tell that he really likes them, and has done his research. He references other Beatles books, most of which I have read, and will set them straight, or elaborate on them heavily. Steve Turner really likes the Beatles, and has nothing but nice things to say about them, and seems to put them in the right light even when they've done something not-so-good.
Can't wait to read more!
Also, I'd say that the devotion a Beatles fan has is similar to being in a cult, because during Beatlemania, the fans were serious about their devotion. There's no doubt that when people heard about them trying drugs, their fans didn't go out and try it themselves so they'd seem even closer to them.
From what I can tell, Steve Turner has a 'special' place for the Beatles, which is why he wrote this book. You don't write a book about something you hate unless you're writing for the purpose of dissing it, which is definitely not what he's doing. He seems very passionate about them, and sets out to tell their story in a way they would want it told. The way he talks about them, you can tell that he really likes them, and has done his research. He references other Beatles books, most of which I have read, and will set them straight, or elaborate on them heavily. Steve Turner really likes the Beatles, and has nothing but nice things to say about them, and seems to put them in the right light even when they've done something not-so-good.
Can't wait to read more!
Monday, November 10, 2008
The Gospel According To The Beatles - 3
Steve Turner has done the ultimate thing in getting me engaged in his book, and that's making it about the Beatles. By just simply doing that I'm hooked on the book and don't want to stop reading, and probably won't want it to end. As you can tell from my blog, I REALLY like them, using Strawberry Fields Forever as my screen name, and With A Little Help From My Friends as my blog name, it's easy to see, unless you don't know anything about them, but that would be blasphemous :P!
Before I started reading the book, I already knew a fair amount of information about the Fab Four, but I'm starting to learn things I didn't think I would. What I knew before hand is being expanded on and I'm starting to get the deeper story of it. Like for instance, I knew the whole John Lennon saying the Beatles were more famous than Jesus was a really big deal, but the true story behind it gives it more of a justification, at least to me.
Another thing that really engages me is that I'm learning more about their drug use, which may seem an odd thing to get 'excited' about, but it's one thing that I know really affected their music, and the way Steve Turner approaches it helps me do that.
I can't wait to keep reading and continue learning about George, John, Ringo, and Paul!
Before I started reading the book, I already knew a fair amount of information about the Fab Four, but I'm starting to learn things I didn't think I would. What I knew before hand is being expanded on and I'm starting to get the deeper story of it. Like for instance, I knew the whole John Lennon saying the Beatles were more famous than Jesus was a really big deal, but the true story behind it gives it more of a justification, at least to me.
Another thing that really engages me is that I'm learning more about their drug use, which may seem an odd thing to get 'excited' about, but it's one thing that I know really affected their music, and the way Steve Turner approaches it helps me do that.
I can't wait to keep reading and continue learning about George, John, Ringo, and Paul!
Friday, November 7, 2008
The Gospel According To The Beatles
This book is definitely proving to be good. It helps me love the Beatles much more than I already did.
The first few chapters have focused on the whole John Lennon stating the Beatles are more famous that God thing. That was a little boring, but interesting all the same. I didn't think there was so much someone could talk about one subject, but it is pretty interesting, and a pretty bold statement for one person to make.
I'm now moving into a discussion of how they became the Bealtes and the way that they came up with their unique sound. Before they actually formed the Beatles, John, Paul, and George were in a skiff band, which is like, a rock form of jazz. They then turned into the band we love today, except with a different drummer besides Ringo who joined later.
I can't wait to move onto a discussion of the songs themselves, and the drugs, that will be interesting. More to come later :P
The first few chapters have focused on the whole John Lennon stating the Beatles are more famous that God thing. That was a little boring, but interesting all the same. I didn't think there was so much someone could talk about one subject, but it is pretty interesting, and a pretty bold statement for one person to make.
I'm now moving into a discussion of how they became the Bealtes and the way that they came up with their unique sound. Before they actually formed the Beatles, John, Paul, and George were in a skiff band, which is like, a rock form of jazz. They then turned into the band we love today, except with a different drummer besides Ringo who joined later.
I can't wait to move onto a discussion of the songs themselves, and the drugs, that will be interesting. More to come later :P
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
The Gospel According To The Beatles
Author: Steve Turner
Copyright: 2006
This is one of the books that I used for my Annotative Bibliography. Like I said in my last blog, I couldn't continue reading the other book b/c it just wasn't moving fast enough, so I started a new book. I need to do a non fiction book, and I had a giant stack of Beatles books in my room, so I chose the one that was the most appealing to me. This particular Beatles book seemed to be the most interesting of the 12 books I have. It takes a an approach that isn't quite as serious and overdone as some of the other books, but is still a good representation of them.
Besides what I used to for my bibliography, I hope to learn more about them that I didn't already know. I imagine that this book will keep me engaged because The Beatles is something I'm truly interested it. I'm sure I'll be presented with all sorts of fun facts and odd information I wasn't expecting :P
Copyright: 2006
This is one of the books that I used for my Annotative Bibliography. Like I said in my last blog, I couldn't continue reading the other book b/c it just wasn't moving fast enough, so I started a new book. I need to do a non fiction book, and I had a giant stack of Beatles books in my room, so I chose the one that was the most appealing to me. This particular Beatles book seemed to be the most interesting of the 12 books I have. It takes a an approach that isn't quite as serious and overdone as some of the other books, but is still a good representation of them.
Besides what I used to for my bibliography, I hope to learn more about them that I didn't already know. I imagine that this book will keep me engaged because The Beatles is something I'm truly interested it. I'm sure I'll be presented with all sorts of fun facts and odd information I wasn't expecting :P
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Escape - I Give Up
*Sigh*
I really wanted to read Escape, but it was moving SO slow. I couldn't continue reading it. I liked the book, but I just didn't have it in me to read it anymore. I may start reading again later, but I can only stay on a book for so long. If the book just moved through certain parts a little bit quicker, then I probably would've finished already. Oh well, I'll either never touch it again or pick it up later.
I plan to move onto another nonfiction book that I used for my annotative bibliography, therefore I'll be reading one of the many Beatles books I own.
I really wanted to read Escape, but it was moving SO slow. I couldn't continue reading it. I liked the book, but I just didn't have it in me to read it anymore. I may start reading again later, but I can only stay on a book for so long. If the book just moved through certain parts a little bit quicker, then I probably would've finished already. Oh well, I'll either never touch it again or pick it up later.
I plan to move onto another nonfiction book that I used for my annotative bibliography, therefore I'll be reading one of the many Beatles books I own.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Escape - 6
The book opens with a preface, which I recommend you read first, because it gives you something to look forward to because the first couple chapters move a little slowly.
The prefaces starts with Carolyn trying to escape from the FLDS. It led me to have something exciting to look forward to as I'm reading. It provides a look to the big ending that the book will inevitably lead up to. As I said, since the book moves a little slowly, you have to remember from the prefaces what's coming up ahead, so it keeps you reading. As well judging from the preface, I want to know what happens after she tries to escape, because it stops at a point that makes you want to keep reading.
I'm sure what the preface told me will help me continue reading. Sometimes I have to remember that there is something exciting going to happen at the end and I'll have a reason to keep reading. The preface won't let me down (hopefully)!
The prefaces starts with Carolyn trying to escape from the FLDS. It led me to have something exciting to look forward to as I'm reading. It provides a look to the big ending that the book will inevitably lead up to. As I said, since the book moves a little slowly, you have to remember from the prefaces what's coming up ahead, so it keeps you reading. As well judging from the preface, I want to know what happens after she tries to escape, because it stops at a point that makes you want to keep reading.
I'm sure what the preface told me will help me continue reading. Sometimes I have to remember that there is something exciting going to happen at the end and I'll have a reason to keep reading. The preface won't let me down (hopefully)!
Monday, October 27, 2008
Escape - 5
For a lack of something better to blog about, I'll talk about the book itself.
The book is good, and I like it, but it just seems to be moving along really slowly. From what wolflikeme has told me, the book does pick up. I'll hopefully finish the book this week so I can start one of my fiction books.
As I've discussed before, Polygamy and Mormonism is such an odd concept to me, I know what it is, I just don't understand the appeal of it. Carolyn Jessop is so unhappy, hey she continues following the religion unhappy with a husband and his wives. I'm surprised she didn't try to escape sooner than she did. I realize how important her religion is to her, but when you're THAT unhappy with you life, I'd just dip out, even though it may be hard.
I'll hopefully finish the book soon, or put a significant dent in it so I can start my next book. But like I said, it's not that I don't like the book, it's just moving a little bit to slowly, and despite that it's a really good book.
The book is good, and I like it, but it just seems to be moving along really slowly. From what wolflikeme has told me, the book does pick up. I'll hopefully finish the book this week so I can start one of my fiction books.
As I've discussed before, Polygamy and Mormonism is such an odd concept to me, I know what it is, I just don't understand the appeal of it. Carolyn Jessop is so unhappy, hey she continues following the religion unhappy with a husband and his wives. I'm surprised she didn't try to escape sooner than she did. I realize how important her religion is to her, but when you're THAT unhappy with you life, I'd just dip out, even though it may be hard.
I'll hopefully finish the book soon, or put a significant dent in it so I can start my next book. But like I said, it's not that I don't like the book, it's just moving a little bit to slowly, and despite that it's a really good book.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Escape - 4
As I've been reading Escape, I noticed Jessop's attitude towards the books content. Her attitude is deeper than simply friendly or unfriendly, I'd say it was bitter. Since the experiences chronicled in this book represent a tough time in her life, that attitude is understandable.
Since she's talking about her life as a polygamist and strict Mormon, bitter is easily seen. In the preface, bitter is shown the most. Though it's just a glimpse into whats the come, you see the bitterness in the way she talks about her escape. Also, in general, most people would be pretty bitter in telling how they escaped from polygamy, especially if it had a huge impact on their life.
I'm sure the feeling of bitterness will continue throughout the book as Jessop continues her chronicle of her escape. I hope to read more and be further enthralled by the book.
Since she's talking about her life as a polygamist and strict Mormon, bitter is easily seen. In the preface, bitter is shown the most. Though it's just a glimpse into whats the come, you see the bitterness in the way she talks about her escape. Also, in general, most people would be pretty bitter in telling how they escaped from polygamy, especially if it had a huge impact on their life.
I'm sure the feeling of bitterness will continue throughout the book as Jessop continues her chronicle of her escape. I hope to read more and be further enthralled by the book.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Escape - 3
This book is basically an biography of Carolyn Jessop's life until now told by herself. The life story is told from her perspective. You see life how she saw it, from her childhood games to her getting spankings.
Her telling it this way let's you get into the book and you have a deeper connection to it. While I read, I read it as though I'm her reliving the events in my head. Not only the perspective, but simply what she's writing about helps you connect. The sometimes serious subject matter and the overall subject of the book would get your roped-in as well, even if the perspective didn't add a helping hand.
I'm sure the book will continue to rope me in, and I expect there to be events that add even more interest to the story itself. The fact that the book is about a woman escaping a terrible polygamist marriage is interesting enough. At this point though, I'm only in her middle school days.
Her telling it this way let's you get into the book and you have a deeper connection to it. While I read, I read it as though I'm her reliving the events in my head. Not only the perspective, but simply what she's writing about helps you connect. The sometimes serious subject matter and the overall subject of the book would get your roped-in as well, even if the perspective didn't add a helping hand.
I'm sure the book will continue to rope me in, and I expect there to be events that add even more interest to the story itself. The fact that the book is about a woman escaping a terrible polygamist marriage is interesting enough. At this point though, I'm only in her middle school days.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Escape - 2
I know some things about polygamy and Mormonism, but what I don't know is exposed in this book. The author/main character Carolyn Jessop tells her story of growing up in a polygamist family and trying to escape it in her later life. The way she tells it really engages me in the book. The way it's told shows the struggle they had, and how much criticism is thrown your way if you were a polygamist.
Jessop tells her story in a way that I can easily contrast it with my life. The way things are done, and how they have to life their lives is so different. I don't think I could handle being a polygamist, much less a Mormon. Having to raise all those kids, and having to help raise kids that aren't even yours would be so hard. And also having to grow up with so many brothers and sisters around would be just as hard to deal with.
The way she describes her escaped in the preface was what instantly got me engaged, the risks she has to take so she won't get caught are grave. I commend her for taking those risks so her and her children can live a better life. The sad thing is that her kids don't get that they could be going to a better life.
Overall, I think this book will continue to further engage me.
Jessop tells her story in a way that I can easily contrast it with my life. The way things are done, and how they have to life their lives is so different. I don't think I could handle being a polygamist, much less a Mormon. Having to raise all those kids, and having to help raise kids that aren't even yours would be so hard. And also having to grow up with so many brothers and sisters around would be just as hard to deal with.
The way she describes her escaped in the preface was what instantly got me engaged, the risks she has to take so she won't get caught are grave. I commend her for taking those risks so her and her children can live a better life. The sad thing is that her kids don't get that they could be going to a better life.
Overall, I think this book will continue to further engage me.
Escape
By: Carolyn Jessup
Written: 2007
Just to go ahead and get this out of the way, this is the same book that wolflikeme was reading.
I decided to read it because from what she told me, the book sounded really good, so I decided to read it.
From what I know about polygamists and Mormons, this book should be pretty interesting. I expect it to be pretty dramatic, and shit a whole new light on my opinions of polygamy. I've only seen polygamy in TV shows, and it wasn't a cult/community type thing, it was more of a secret polygamist family.
I expect there to be a lot of dangerous or compromising situations since the main character wants to get away from polygamy and live a free life. Polygamy is a hard thing to deal with, a lot of the 'other' wives don't like each other, so there's a lot of tension.
As far as where I am in the book now, the preface told me a lot, so expectations should be lived up to, and right now they're just talking about the main characters childhood and an game called Apocalypse that is like a Mormon version of hide and seek...
Written: 2007
Just to go ahead and get this out of the way, this is the same book that wolflikeme was reading.
I decided to read it because from what she told me, the book sounded really good, so I decided to read it.
From what I know about polygamists and Mormons, this book should be pretty interesting. I expect it to be pretty dramatic, and shit a whole new light on my opinions of polygamy. I've only seen polygamy in TV shows, and it wasn't a cult/community type thing, it was more of a secret polygamist family.
I expect there to be a lot of dangerous or compromising situations since the main character wants to get away from polygamy and live a free life. Polygamy is a hard thing to deal with, a lot of the 'other' wives don't like each other, so there's a lot of tension.
As far as where I am in the book now, the preface told me a lot, so expectations should be lived up to, and right now they're just talking about the main characters childhood and an game called Apocalypse that is like a Mormon version of hide and seek...
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Be More Chill - 2
So yeah, as I predicted, the shiz did hit the fan... but it wasn't as epic as I'd thought it would be, either way it happened.
I'm now done with the book, and I liked it. You definitely need to read the book all the way through to get it, and sometimes the predictions you made didn't happen, the book was filled with lots of twists and turns. Although, by the end of the book you kind of feel like you're left hanging. Some things that you thought would happen don't, and the way it ends doesn't give you any idea of what might happen. Based on that, most of the predictions I made, except for the one about the squip causing everything to go wrong.
So, it was a good book, and I really liked it. It's time for another non-fiction book...
I'm now done with the book, and I liked it. You definitely need to read the book all the way through to get it, and sometimes the predictions you made didn't happen, the book was filled with lots of twists and turns. Although, by the end of the book you kind of feel like you're left hanging. Some things that you thought would happen don't, and the way it ends doesn't give you any idea of what might happen. Based on that, most of the predictions I made, except for the one about the squip causing everything to go wrong.
So, it was a good book, and I really liked it. It's time for another non-fiction book...
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Be More Chill
Book Title: Be More Chill
Author: Ned Vizzini
Copyright Date: 2004
As I'm writing this I'm pretty much finished with the book. The book is set up with the classic geeky boy (Jeremy) who no one really likes, and the one thing he wants, which is sex, he can't get. Not only can he not get that, but girls don't even like to talk to him. However, this story is a little different than the classic geeky boy stories are, instead of a classmate making him over, he pays for a super computer that's in the form of a pill. This super computer, called a squip, guides him through life, telling him what to say, wear, and do.
In the 3/4 I've read, the book is really good, and expect to stay that way in the 1/4 I have left. At this moment, everything is moving along smoothly with the squip, but as can be expected, something will inevitably go wrong. I can only imagine that with a super computer in your head, some sort of meltdown will occur.
Until something wrong does happen, the squip is working out great for Jeremy, he's hooked up with a couple girls, which has never happened to him until he got the squip. As well as his new found luck with the ladies, Jeremy's fashion sense and confidense has improved, he's acutally starting to like himself. Gonna go read that last 1/4 and watch the shiz hit the fan.
Author: Ned Vizzini
Copyright Date: 2004
As I'm writing this I'm pretty much finished with the book. The book is set up with the classic geeky boy (Jeremy) who no one really likes, and the one thing he wants, which is sex, he can't get. Not only can he not get that, but girls don't even like to talk to him. However, this story is a little different than the classic geeky boy stories are, instead of a classmate making him over, he pays for a super computer that's in the form of a pill. This super computer, called a squip, guides him through life, telling him what to say, wear, and do.
In the 3/4 I've read, the book is really good, and expect to stay that way in the 1/4 I have left. At this moment, everything is moving along smoothly with the squip, but as can be expected, something will inevitably go wrong. I can only imagine that with a super computer in your head, some sort of meltdown will occur.
Until something wrong does happen, the squip is working out great for Jeremy, he's hooked up with a couple girls, which has never happened to him until he got the squip. As well as his new found luck with the ladies, Jeremy's fashion sense and confidense has improved, he's acutally starting to like himself. Gonna go read that last 1/4 and watch the shiz hit the fan.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
My Favorite Things List
My favorite things... I have a lot.
- Hanging out with my friends
- Singing
- Acting a fool
- Making stupid videos
- Dancing like a fool
- Reading
- Music in general
- Movies (comedy, horror, musicals, anything with Johnny Depp or Jim Sturgess)
- The Beatles
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Go As Alice Part 3
This is my final blog for 'Go Ask Alice'. I finished right before I started writing this. I liked the book a lot, but there were some things that annoyed me in general, starting from the way she talked to some of the stupid decisions she made, but I easily looked past those.
The ending of the book was... not as good as I expected, but it was pretty predictable. The end of the book was basically her reaching the end of that diary, but the true ending was in the epilogue. The epilogue didn't quite give the right answers, or provide enough information about the character, though I understand she's kept anonymous, I would've liked to get some more information on the events that took place after the end of the book.
Overall, the book was good, and I really liked it. The whole book ran in a pattern, she was a 'straight' kid, then a druggie, then straight and was accidentally drugged, then she was straight again. It all took place over two years, and that's a lot to happen to one girl in that time. When it first started it was about a month from her 15th birthday, and ended a few days after her 17th.
In the last entry I wrote about this book, I said that at some points I doubted the authenticity of the diary itself, so I searched the internet some, and found that there were many people claiming that the person who 'wrote' the book (not the original owner of the diary) used some entries from a former patients diary, but added some of her own entries in with it. Like the me, other people noticed that the language used seemed a little odd for someone in their teen to use. Still, if you haven't read the book already, I highly recommend it.
The ending of the book was... not as good as I expected, but it was pretty predictable. The end of the book was basically her reaching the end of that diary, but the true ending was in the epilogue. The epilogue didn't quite give the right answers, or provide enough information about the character, though I understand she's kept anonymous, I would've liked to get some more information on the events that took place after the end of the book.
Overall, the book was good, and I really liked it. The whole book ran in a pattern, she was a 'straight' kid, then a druggie, then straight and was accidentally drugged, then she was straight again. It all took place over two years, and that's a lot to happen to one girl in that time. When it first started it was about a month from her 15th birthday, and ended a few days after her 17th.
In the last entry I wrote about this book, I said that at some points I doubted the authenticity of the diary itself, so I searched the internet some, and found that there were many people claiming that the person who 'wrote' the book (not the original owner of the diary) used some entries from a former patients diary, but added some of her own entries in with it. Like the me, other people noticed that the language used seemed a little odd for someone in their teen to use. Still, if you haven't read the book already, I highly recommend it.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Go Ask Alice 2
In this book you never find out the actual name of the girl whose diary this is. I thought her name was Alice, but from what I've read it's referring to Alice In Wonderland. Her slow transition from good girl to oversexed druggy is pretty rocky, and anyone could imagine. She's very good at coming off as a good girl to her parents and those who don't know her very well, but when she's writing in her diary or around her friends, who are mostly her dealers she's just another druggy who feels guilty.
When I first started readig the book I had a hard time believing that the diary entries were actually from a real 15 year old because some of the things said I didn't think a teenager would use. I often forgot that the book is from the late 60s....
As I continued reading I saw how her new friends and drugs affected her by the way she talked, I guess she started sounding more 'hippie-like' than in the beginning. The use of cuss words also grew drastically, whether they were used right or not.
When the diary entries started after she ran away the 2nd time I started to believe more that it actually was the diary of a girl. Though at some points I just thought her decisions were completely stupid, but she was high most of the time, so I guess it's a little justifiable.
Where I am in the book she's back home and things seem to be going well, but something always falls apart when good things happen, so I'll just have to see.
When I first started readig the book I had a hard time believing that the diary entries were actually from a real 15 year old because some of the things said I didn't think a teenager would use. I often forgot that the book is from the late 60s....
As I continued reading I saw how her new friends and drugs affected her by the way she talked, I guess she started sounding more 'hippie-like' than in the beginning. The use of cuss words also grew drastically, whether they were used right or not.
When the diary entries started after she ran away the 2nd time I started to believe more that it actually was the diary of a girl. Though at some points I just thought her decisions were completely stupid, but she was high most of the time, so I guess it's a little justifiable.
Where I am in the book she's back home and things seem to be going well, but something always falls apart when good things happen, so I'll just have to see.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Go Ask Alice
Title: Go Ask Alice
Author: Anonymous
Date of Publication: 1971
This is my second Nonfiction book, and I'm really looking forward to reading it. If I haven't said this already, if a book contains any of the following: sex, drugs, alcohol, death/murder/suicide, or teenage problems I'll read it. I guess it just keeps me interested, and I knew that Go Ask Alice was a diary of a girl who pretty much experienced all of those things. I've heard only good things about it, and it was also recommended by Alice Hopkins if you liked her book, Crank, which I did, a lot.
I have high expectations for the book because of all the good things I've heard about it, and also because most books involving drugs and sex I have high hopes for. I realize that since this is a true story, and someones actual diary that things may get messy, seeing as I understand, after she starts doing drugs, she doesn't stop. Also, the fact that it's happening in the late 60s only adds to my interest because I'm also a big fan of the 60s/70s.
I haven't gotten very far into the book, but I know I'll like it. I'm sure there will be more to come as the drugs and sex unfold
Author: Anonymous
Date of Publication: 1971
This is my second Nonfiction book, and I'm really looking forward to reading it. If I haven't said this already, if a book contains any of the following: sex, drugs, alcohol, death/murder/suicide, or teenage problems I'll read it. I guess it just keeps me interested, and I knew that Go Ask Alice was a diary of a girl who pretty much experienced all of those things. I've heard only good things about it, and it was also recommended by Alice Hopkins if you liked her book, Crank, which I did, a lot.
I have high expectations for the book because of all the good things I've heard about it, and also because most books involving drugs and sex I have high hopes for. I realize that since this is a true story, and someones actual diary that things may get messy, seeing as I understand, after she starts doing drugs, she doesn't stop. Also, the fact that it's happening in the late 60s only adds to my interest because I'm also a big fan of the 60s/70s.
I haven't gotten very far into the book, but I know I'll like it. I'm sure there will be more to come as the drugs and sex unfold
The Murder of Bindy Mackenzie - SURPRISE!
I'm officially finished with the book, and I thought I'd write a blog talking about how wrong I was about my prediction.
When I started reading the book I figured that the title meant that her social status (not that she had much of one before) would completely fall. As I continued reading, I found out that it actually was referring to her murder. There was basically a crazy mix-up involving her overhearing an argument between two computer programmers. At the time, she thought they were substitute teachers arguing about a Polish exchange student.
There was physical assault involved, and since she was a witness, she gave them her card so if needed, she could testify. Those two women knew she had seen them, and thought she might know too much, so they started poisoning her with arsenic, which the members of her FAD group figured, but she didn't believe them, who would?
In reality, she really was being poisoned, there were VERY large amounts in her body, and she was in a coma for 2 weeks. Everyone figured she would die, but good old Bindy pulled through.
Overall, the book ended up being a lot better than it was during the bulk of the story.
When I started reading the book I figured that the title meant that her social status (not that she had much of one before) would completely fall. As I continued reading, I found out that it actually was referring to her murder. There was basically a crazy mix-up involving her overhearing an argument between two computer programmers. At the time, she thought they were substitute teachers arguing about a Polish exchange student.
There was physical assault involved, and since she was a witness, she gave them her card so if needed, she could testify. Those two women knew she had seen them, and thought she might know too much, so they started poisoning her with arsenic, which the members of her FAD group figured, but she didn't believe them, who would?
In reality, she really was being poisoned, there were VERY large amounts in her body, and she was in a coma for 2 weeks. Everyone figured she would die, but good old Bindy pulled through.
Overall, the book ended up being a lot better than it was during the bulk of the story.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
The Murder of Bindy Mackenzie - Engage me!
In reading my book, it's easy to get really involved with the story. Because of the way it's formatted (memo/transcript/journal entry) the story moves along quickly, but sometimes you get lost. Besides the way it's written, the story in general engages you. You think you can easily predict it, but sometimes your predictions are wrong, so it keeps you guessing.
The vast number of characters also keeps you engaged. Though it's just one person actually telling the story, there are 8 other characters constantly being mentioned, and in order to understand the story you have to keep the characters stories straight. As well as the other things, the writer has also presented you with the kind of main character you don't know whether to love or hate. Throughout the book I couldn't figure out which one I was feeling, so it was constantly changing, despite that, I do like the main character in general, she just has some extremely annoying habits that make me want to slap her a little. Despite that, you can still connect with her feelings and you get to know her.
This book also has the 'high school drama' appeal that engages me. The fighting between people, and the betrayal of friends keeps me interested.
The vast number of characters also keeps you engaged. Though it's just one person actually telling the story, there are 8 other characters constantly being mentioned, and in order to understand the story you have to keep the characters stories straight. As well as the other things, the writer has also presented you with the kind of main character you don't know whether to love or hate. Throughout the book I couldn't figure out which one I was feeling, so it was constantly changing, despite that, I do like the main character in general, she just has some extremely annoying habits that make me want to slap her a little. Despite that, you can still connect with her feelings and you get to know her.
This book also has the 'high school drama' appeal that engages me. The fighting between people, and the betrayal of friends keeps me interested.
The Murder of Bindy Mackenzie - Point of View
This book is told from the perspective of a 17-year-old Australian student named Bindy. She's extremely smart and makes sure that everyone around her knows it. The story itself is told in memo/journal/transcript form. Bindy is... well, the best way to put it is anal retentive. She's alway writing transcripts on her laptop of whatever anyone around her is saying and constantly memo-ing.
Year 11, which is the equivalent of senior year, is supposed to be the year she shines, but actually it's far from that. She gets caught up in her FAD group and what the members of it think of her, when in the beginning she could really care less and even goes as far as to call them all venomous then compare each one to a poisonous/venomous animal. As the year goes, she becomes closer with them. While all of this is happening, she starts losing track of time and actually begins missing some of her classes, and her attention span in class is far from what it used to be.
The transcript/memo/journal form can be hard to understand, but it gets the job done. The transcripts are given in a more traditional book form because it's told with dialogue, but the memos are more like letters to people, and the journal entries are more or less just a summary of the day.
I still like the book though, but the different way she tells the story kinda reinforces the anal retentiveness.
Year 11, which is the equivalent of senior year, is supposed to be the year she shines, but actually it's far from that. She gets caught up in her FAD group and what the members of it think of her, when in the beginning she could really care less and even goes as far as to call them all venomous then compare each one to a poisonous/venomous animal. As the year goes, she becomes closer with them. While all of this is happening, she starts losing track of time and actually begins missing some of her classes, and her attention span in class is far from what it used to be.
The transcript/memo/journal form can be hard to understand, but it gets the job done. The transcripts are given in a more traditional book form because it's told with dialogue, but the memos are more like letters to people, and the journal entries are more or less just a summary of the day.
I still like the book though, but the different way she tells the story kinda reinforces the anal retentiveness.
Monday, September 8, 2008
The Murder of Bindy Mackenzie
Title The Murer of Bindy Mackenzie
Author: Jaclyn Moriarty
Date of Publication: 2006
This book is a sequal to the book 'A Year of Secret Assignments', though they really don't tie into each other, they contain some of the same characters. I chose this book because I hate reading a book knowing it has a sequal and not continuing the series, of course, I only do this assuming I liked the 1st book, which I did.
I'm currently on page 319 of 490, so most of the expectations I had were fulfilled, but I'm sure there are still surprises waiting for me around the corner. Anyway, I expected the book to be good since the 1st one was really good, and the book is good.
However, the main character, Bindy, is full of herself, she's extremely smart, and she knows it, and she makes sure that everyone else knows it too. She's in year 11 (set in Australia, so I assume year 11 there is Junior year, but I'm not sure), and is finding out through attending FAD (Friendship and Development) classes that people really don't like her that much. She's trying to chance people's opinions of her by opening more. Also, her acedemic status seems to be slipping the more she gets involved in making people like her, and paying almost too much attentio to the FAD group.
Author: Jaclyn Moriarty
Date of Publication: 2006
This book is a sequal to the book 'A Year of Secret Assignments', though they really don't tie into each other, they contain some of the same characters. I chose this book because I hate reading a book knowing it has a sequal and not continuing the series, of course, I only do this assuming I liked the 1st book, which I did.
I'm currently on page 319 of 490, so most of the expectations I had were fulfilled, but I'm sure there are still surprises waiting for me around the corner. Anyway, I expected the book to be good since the 1st one was really good, and the book is good.
However, the main character, Bindy, is full of herself, she's extremely smart, and she knows it, and she makes sure that everyone else knows it too. She's in year 11 (set in Australia, so I assume year 11 there is Junior year, but I'm not sure), and is finding out through attending FAD (Friendship and Development) classes that people really don't like her that much. She's trying to chance people's opinions of her by opening more. Also, her acedemic status seems to be slipping the more she gets involved in making people like her, and paying almost too much attentio to the FAD group.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Don't Throw Glass at People
At my current age of 17, I've learned the difference between right and wrong, stupid and smart, etc. However, I have slipped up more than once, but who hasn't? I've figured out then when someone tells you to do something, or dares you to do something, you don't always have to do it. The story I have to share definitely helped teach me that. Though I was young at the time, I don't think I'll ever forget it, or what it taught me.
I believe that I was in 2nd grade, which would've made me 8 years old. It was a perfectly pretty, warm day on the playground at Westchester Elementary, and I was just walking around after coming off the swings. I see one of my classmates standing by the large, wooden play-structure. Now, the classmate I saw wasn't always the nicest kid, but he was considered the class clown an he carried his label well. As I continued walking around, he yelled out, "Hey Kathryn, I dare you to throw this piece of glass at me," he was holding a triangle-shaped piece of glass in his hand he picked off the ground.
For a minute, I considered my options, throw it at him and miss, throw it at him and actual make a hit, or just don't do it. I, in all of my 8 year old wisdom decided to throw it. Now, he had to actually throw the glass to me so I could throw it at him, because for some reason neither of us would bring it or go get it. After he threw the glass to me, I examined it for a second, thinking if the glass would actually hurt him assuming I hit my 'target'. After I felt the edges a little, and gave it a brief, but thorough look-over, I decided it wouldn't hurt him. So, with my weak 2nd grader arms, I threw the glass. I figured I had missed, and I did, it landed about 3 feet away from him, so he was completely safe from harm. I'm pretty sure he knew it wouldn't have made it anyway. Thinking I was in the clear since no one saw me throw it but him, and the fact that I missed by an embarrassing length, he goes and runs to the teacher to tell on me. The first thing I did when I saw him running was start crying, I couldn't help it, but I was 8, either way, I was crying, and by the time the teacher got to me I must have looked like my puppy just died.
I explained myself to the teacher, but I still got in trouble. Although, my only punishment was writing a letter explaining what I did, and I had to get it signed by my mother, which was the part I didn't like. Seeing as I had no choice, I accepted my punishment and moved on with my life, but I don't think I'll ever forget doing that. Ever.
From my 2nd grade glass-throwing experience, I learned that just because someone dared you, or told you to do something, doesn't mean you should do it, especially if the person is a well known class clown. Since then, I haven't done anything anyone dared me to do, unless they were one of my close friends, and no one I really know would want to dare me to possibly hurt them. As for the guy who dared me to throw the glass at him, he's still going to school with me, however I haven't talked to him since maybe, 9th grade. So, if you're dared to throw glass at someone, don't do it, unless of course you want to get in trouble, then go on ahead, but don't make me say 'I told you so'.
I believe that I was in 2nd grade, which would've made me 8 years old. It was a perfectly pretty, warm day on the playground at Westchester Elementary, and I was just walking around after coming off the swings. I see one of my classmates standing by the large, wooden play-structure. Now, the classmate I saw wasn't always the nicest kid, but he was considered the class clown an he carried his label well. As I continued walking around, he yelled out, "Hey Kathryn, I dare you to throw this piece of glass at me," he was holding a triangle-shaped piece of glass in his hand he picked off the ground.
For a minute, I considered my options, throw it at him and miss, throw it at him and actual make a hit, or just don't do it. I, in all of my 8 year old wisdom decided to throw it. Now, he had to actually throw the glass to me so I could throw it at him, because for some reason neither of us would bring it or go get it. After he threw the glass to me, I examined it for a second, thinking if the glass would actually hurt him assuming I hit my 'target'. After I felt the edges a little, and gave it a brief, but thorough look-over, I decided it wouldn't hurt him. So, with my weak 2nd grader arms, I threw the glass. I figured I had missed, and I did, it landed about 3 feet away from him, so he was completely safe from harm. I'm pretty sure he knew it wouldn't have made it anyway. Thinking I was in the clear since no one saw me throw it but him, and the fact that I missed by an embarrassing length, he goes and runs to the teacher to tell on me. The first thing I did when I saw him running was start crying, I couldn't help it, but I was 8, either way, I was crying, and by the time the teacher got to me I must have looked like my puppy just died.
I explained myself to the teacher, but I still got in trouble. Although, my only punishment was writing a letter explaining what I did, and I had to get it signed by my mother, which was the part I didn't like. Seeing as I had no choice, I accepted my punishment and moved on with my life, but I don't think I'll ever forget doing that. Ever.
From my 2nd grade glass-throwing experience, I learned that just because someone dared you, or told you to do something, doesn't mean you should do it, especially if the person is a well known class clown. Since then, I haven't done anything anyone dared me to do, unless they were one of my close friends, and no one I really know would want to dare me to possibly hurt them. As for the guy who dared me to throw the glass at him, he's still going to school with me, however I haven't talked to him since maybe, 9th grade. So, if you're dared to throw glass at someone, don't do it, unless of course you want to get in trouble, then go on ahead, but don't make me say 'I told you so'.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
21 part 2
I'm on the verge of finishing 21, I've got about 50 pages left, so I'll probably finish it tonight. I will say I haven't been putting as much commitment into my read as I have done in past years, so it's taken me a little long to finish this book than it has in the past.
As I'm coming close the end of this book, I have no idea where it might end, but I'm pretty sure it won't disappointing.
Since I'll finish the book tonight, I'll start my 1st non-fiction book of the year, which I have high-hopes for as well.
As I'm coming close the end of this book, I have no idea where it might end, but I'm pretty sure it won't disappointing.
Since I'll finish the book tonight, I'll start my 1st non-fiction book of the year, which I have high-hopes for as well.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Ends With 'Berry'
To me, any word is funnier when said in an English accent. Some of my personal favorites are anything that ends with 'berry', like strawberry, blueberry, blackberry, thimble berry, boysenberry, cranberry, etc.
I guess it's just the way an English accent forms when there are multiple Rs and ends in a Y. I often say strawberry like 'strawwwbury'. After hearing it said by an actual English person, their way of saying it just sort of stuck with me.
The other -berry words are just as fun to say, especially the ones that have interesting first words. I guess there's just something about an English accent that can make all words either sound better, or make the even more fun to say.
I guess it's just the way an English accent forms when there are multiple Rs and ends in a Y. I often say strawberry like 'strawwwbury'. After hearing it said by an actual English person, their way of saying it just sort of stuck with me.
The other -berry words are just as fun to say, especially the ones that have interesting first words. I guess there's just something about an English accent that can make all words either sound better, or make the even more fun to say.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
21: Bringing DownThe House
Title: 21: Bringing Down The House
Author: Ben Mezrich
Date of Publication: 2002
Basically, if you've seen the movie 21, you know the general idea of the book itself, however the book is almost completely different from the movie. It's about an MIT student named Kevin Lewis, and his story about his involvment in the Blackjack team at MIT.
At this point, I am 115 pages into the book, and so far I love it. The chapters jump around from being present-day (2002) Boston, and Vegas, to being 1994 at MIT, Atlantic City, and Vegas. I wasn't expecting the book to be so different from the movie, but either way it's still good. My friends seem to be under the impression I'm only reading the book because the movie had one of my favorite actors, Jim Sturgess in it, but after seeing the movie and really liking it, everyone was telling me to read the book, because it was so different.
Though I'm only 115 pages into the book, I expect to continue being just as good as it is now.
Author: Ben Mezrich
Date of Publication: 2002
Basically, if you've seen the movie 21, you know the general idea of the book itself, however the book is almost completely different from the movie. It's about an MIT student named Kevin Lewis, and his story about his involvment in the Blackjack team at MIT.
At this point, I am 115 pages into the book, and so far I love it. The chapters jump around from being present-day (2002) Boston, and Vegas, to being 1994 at MIT, Atlantic City, and Vegas. I wasn't expecting the book to be so different from the movie, but either way it's still good. My friends seem to be under the impression I'm only reading the book because the movie had one of my favorite actors, Jim Sturgess in it, but after seeing the movie and really liking it, everyone was telling me to read the book, because it was so different.
Though I'm only 115 pages into the book, I expect to continue being just as good as it is now.
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