tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19091766462231039822024-02-19T08:26:19.792-05:00Up the Tower of BooksKrista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.comBlogger103125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-55437672541752030472011-05-22T23:52:00.000-04:002011-05-22T23:52:00.135-04:00Not That Kind of Girl - Siobhan Vivian<img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 226px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFoxSV2aPINJUvLMRu6eeNs_1ooDZ_0vlVY7EEGfTznH7dnUX68ZZOvu_4O_zBO6vR2JvsmI3D9QVm6RG-84k2elkt6rjhxyBXyzMc8mQIB-PUbIXk0UF1eQY1Tz4fCIjD1RYNpiAJ2q_H/s320/notthatkindofgirl.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606714050696360466" border="0" />Natalie Sterling is not the kind of girl to be worry about boys in high school. After spending four years at Ross Academy, she knows that boys are up to no good and cannot be trusted. Her prime example is her best friend Autumn, who was completely ruined by a boy. In fact, Natalie has better things to worry about, like being elected Student Council President, doing well on the SAT, and getting into the college of her dreams.<br /><br />Then, the irresistible Connor Hughes steps into the picture, and the image Natalie Sterling has created of herself ruins as she transforms into that kind of girl...<br /><br />I read Siobhan Vivian's debut novel, <span style="font-style: italic;">A Little Friendly Advice, </span>two years ago, and I absolutely loved it. Naturally, I had high expectations for this novel. While I did not enjoy this novel quite as much, it certainly did not disappoint. On the surface, <span style="font-style: italic;">Not That Kind of Girl</span> seems like a typical YA chick lit novel, and to an extent it is: boy likes girl, girl falls for him, and the rest is pretty obvious. However, Vivian adds more depth to the novel, by addressing the society's quick-to-judge nature. By doing this, Vivian incorporated aspects of feminism, creating an unique reading experience.<br /><br />The main flaw in this novel involved Natalie's relationship with Connor. Vivian spent little time developing the relationship outside of physical intimacy. I felt that sex played too large of a role in the relationship. I have no problem in sex in YA novels, as it makes the novel more realistic. However, at times, I felt the relationship was based <span style="font-style: italic;">solely</span> on sex. A little development would have gone a long way.<br /><br />Overall, <span style="font-style: italic;">Not That Kind of Girl</span> is a good book for someone looking for an unconventional teen romance novel.<br /><br /><u>Related Links</u><br /><a href="http://www.siobhanvivian.com/Hello/Home.html">Siobhan Vivian's Site</a><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/That-Kind-Girl-Siobhan-Vivian/dp/0545169151/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpi_1">Amazon</a><br /><a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9780545169158">Indie Bound</a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">I received this book as a part of the Amazon Vine Program.</span>Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-61758571213897723502011-05-14T15:10:00.002-04:002011-05-14T15:16:04.407-04:00RecommendationsOne of the things I miss most about actively reading book blogs and regularly updating mine is knowing about upcoming books and new authors.<br /><br />So, I have a question for you (if you are still out there)! What are some recent or upcoming releases that you really enjoyed, and what debut authors have impressed you?<br /><br />Who knows, this might even be a surprise giveaway. ;)Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-1061176677049450342011-03-26T23:50:00.009-04:002011-05-14T19:05:06.950-04:00Promise Not to Tell - Jennifer McMahon<img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 200px; height: 302px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3IQXwWClcthqaQ7HJXwBPA2Ze8rDqZawkHP2Y161I_StsRBCIhqGQ7YJx3VKXcsxu3_Bs6fxFAuebFQF3IRHWMk3ZuvBjIOkYPApOkZM_vt861yG6hY2mim58QvdtQuYvbquuJWYVPg1v/s320/promisenottell.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588602221802401986" border="0" />One potato, two potato, three potato, four...<br /><br />In 1971, a murder shook the the small Vermont town of New Canaan. Del Griswold, known as Potato Girl to her classmates, was a carefree farm girl. While most of the school wanted nothing to do with her, Kate Cypher befriended her. However, any friend of Del's was sure to be ridicules, so Kate kept the friendship a secret.<br /><br />Three decades later, Kate returns to New Canaan to care for her mother, who is suffering from Alzheimer's. On her first day back, a young girl is murdered, reminiscent of Del's murder. Kate soon meets with Del's older brother, who is convinced that Del is back and seeking revenge. At first, Kate is unconvinced, but what else could explain the mysterious events that have occurred, such as Kate's mother speaking in a voice that unmistakably belongs to Del?<br /><br />Jennifer McMahon's <span style="font-style: italic;">Promise Not to Tell</span> is a novel that will leave you on the edge of your seat. McMahon did an excellent job depicting the eerie occurrences of New Canaan. I would start reading this book at night around midnight, and I literally could not put the book down, for fear that Del's ghost would attack me (okay, so not so much attack me, but the novel did creep me out). As a result, I stayed up until 3 a.m. just so I could finish it and lay Del's ghost to rest (sorry for the bad pun, but I couldn't resist!).<br /><br />Anyway, the novel alternates from 1971 to 2002. In the 1971 sections, McMahon reveals Kate's childhood friendship with Del. Del and Kate shared an unique bond as outsiders. Del was the farm girl that all the kids made fun of, while Kate was part of a hippie communion. However, each girl kept secrets from the other. In the 2002 sections, Kate reflects on the mistakes she made as a child. The novel also delves into Kate's relationship with her mother and other members of the communion.<br /><br />I personally thought that the killer was relatively easy to guess. This, however, did not make the novel any less enjoyable. My main complaint about the book was that the ending was rushed and left me desiring more. Not necessarily more closure, but more detail about the closure.<br /><br />Overall, <span style="font-style: italic;">Promise Not to Tell </span>is a good pick for anyone looking for a ghost story.<br /><br /><u>Related Links</u><br /><a href="http://www.jennifer-mcmahon.com/">Jennifer McMahon's Site</a><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Promise-Not-Tell-Jennifer-Mcmahon/dp/0061143316/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1301201792&sr=8-1">Amazon</a><br /><a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9780061143311"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Indie Bound</span></a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">I purchased this book.</span>Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-86730304737404986652011-03-26T23:28:00.002-04:002011-03-26T23:31:43.578-04:00Back from HiatusI'm sure you've guessed it, without me mentioning it, but I went on a hiatus. The beginning of college was insane, and I didn't even have time to read, much less maintain a blog. Seriously, the only time I read now is on my breaks. Last week was my spring break, and I received an invitation to join Amazon Vine. The invitation made me realize just how much I missed blogging.<br /><br />While I won't be able to post as often as I'd like, I would like to post reviews every once in a while so keep watch!Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-78033326555102339142010-08-27T08:00:00.000-04:002010-08-27T08:00:12.862-04:00CommentingWhile all bloggers like new followers and increased stats, I think most bloggers LOVE comments. Comments show that a blog has active readers, that not only take the time to read posts, but also to share their own thoughts. Importantly, comments also allow bloggers to get to know their readers.<br /><br />I also believe, however, that comments are also one of the hardest things to receive. I know this from my personal experience. To elaborate (Warning, this might get boring. Feel free to skip to the next paragraph.), I use google reader to update my blog. I go through my unread items and star the ones that I want to read later. When I read my starred items, I'll comment on particularly striking posts. Here's where the problem comes. A lot of times, I'll star items, and then I'll star even more items. Before I know it, I'll have hundreds of items I need to read. There's no way I can read all those items, so I usually just unstar them, and start over from my unread items. I wish I could say that I'll make sure my starred items do not pile up, but I know that life is busy. But I also know that comments make an IMPACT.<br /><br />In short, I think readers have good intentions, and may genuinely like certain blogs, but simply do not have time to comment and read many entries. Also, the large number of great blogs also makes it difficult to comment. At the same time, most bloggers spend hours writing posts for their readers, so to know that readers appreciate them is great. Appreciation also helps bloggers find the motivation to improve their blogs, so shouldn't readers try to comment more, even if it is just a little?<br /><br />So here's my pledge to comment more on my favorite blogs, and I hope you do the same. :)Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-62609246222912667392010-08-26T08:00:00.000-04:002010-08-26T08:00:06.038-04:00English 1102So, this week is my first week of college! It has all been very surreal. I can't believe I'm in college already. Ha. Anyways, for this post, I wanted to discuss my English class. Each professor chooses a theme to discuss all semester. My professor chose adaptations. Basically, I read different pieces of literature and watch different adaptations of them and write about them!<br /><br />As a reader, I know I have watched many terrible movies based on books. Of course, I have enjoyed a select few. I feel like this class could give me an appreciation of adaptations. At the end of the semester, I will write a post with overall thoughts. Below is a list of the books I have to read, along with the movies I have to watch. The texts are the ones next to the numbers and the bulleted are the adaptations.<br /><br />1)<span style="font-style: italic;"> The Taming of the Shrew - </span>William Shakespeare <span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span><ul><li>The Taming of the Shrew (1966)</li><li>10 Things I Hate About You (1999) (!!!)</li></ul>2) <span style="font-style: italic;">Romeo and Juliet - </span>William Shakespeare<br /><ul><li>Romeo and Juliet (1968)</li><li>Romeo + Juliet (1996)</li></ul>3) <span style="font-style: italic;">Atonement</span> - Ian McEwan<br /><ul><li>Atonement (1999)</li></ul>4) <span style="font-style: italic;">The Long Halloween</span> - Jeph Loeb & Time Sale<br /><ul><li>The Dark Knight (2008)<br /></li></ul><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span>Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-16675003384025248402010-08-25T08:00:00.000-04:002010-08-25T08:00:10.540-04:00The Pillow Book of Lotus Lowenstein - Libby Schmais<img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 200px; height: 303px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNFweLs7cAftdMPsw4GnFELPZOdAf-qQSpWLQkFi5qHucQZYh-BBYrS1dZ6bdck_FAiW8pw-uLF6vgyJ2oPVM4ooBKkXuL9IAuz3YqnBL_5arQgNWzD1V61mda7AiQX3EFV6lIzqvpLj0K/s400/pillowbook" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503908155317929010" border="0" />Lotus Lowenstein is a Francophile, someone in love with all things French. With the help of her friend Joni, Lotus creates a French Club at their high school. At the first meeting, the two girls are surprised when Sean shows up. Sean is handsome, to say the least, but both girls like him. Sean, inspired by his idol, Jean-Paul Satre, however, has no intention of choosing one over the other. Eventually, Sean creates a rift in the friendship between Lotus and Joni. When the French Club gets the opportunity to go Montreal, Lotus is not thrilled. Why would she want to go to Montreal if she would have to suffer seeing Joni and Sean together?<br /><br />In <span style="font-style: italic;">The Pillow Book of Lotus Lowenstein</span>, Libby Schmais uses a common idea--a love triangle--and creates something that stands out. Schmais made the novel unique by the format and the protagonist (Lotus). The novel is set up in diary format. The diary itself is an assignment given by Lotus's English teacher, similar to <span style="font-style: italic;">Don't You Dare Read This, Mrs. Dunphrey.</span> This format allowed readers to get personal (nice phrasing, yes? :P) with Lotus.<br /><br />Lotus herself is a character filled with personality! I have read hundreds of novels, and yet, Lotus stands out in my mind as one of the most memorable. Before I began this novel, I was not sure if I would like Lotus. I was afraid that her obsession with all things French would annoy me after a few pages. I was wrong. Lotus remained amusing throughout the entire novel. Schmais was able to do this by adding humor throughout the novel.<br /><br />My main complaint with this novel deals with the minor characters. I wish Schmais would have fleshed them out more. Given that the novel is in Lotus's perspective, I realize that opportunities to discuss minor characters are limited. However, it seemed like Schmais had perfect places to insert more details about characters, yet she did not. In several parts of the book, Lotus mentions Joni's mom. Schmais offers few details about Joni's mom (who has a certain condition), and I felt myself unsatisfied. I mean, why mention her at all, then? While Schmais did leave the novel open to sequels, I do not know if one is actually planned.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">The Pillow Book of Lotus Lowenstein</span> is a great book for anyone interested in French cultures and/or likes unique protagonists!<br /><br /><br /><u>Related Links</u><br /><a href="http://libbyschmais.com/index.html">Libby Schmais's site</a><br /><a href="http://lotuslowenstein.blogspot.com/">Libby Schmais's blog</a><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0385737564/ref=s9_simh_gw_p14_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=10SR08J7B2CQ9GYQHXGA&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=470938631&pf_rd_i=507846">Amazon</a><br /><a href="http://www.powells.com/biblio/1-9780385737562-1">Powell's</a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">I received this book from <a href="http://www.bookdivas.com/">Book Divas</a>.</span>Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-37974563820207527712010-08-24T08:00:00.000-04:002010-08-24T08:00:05.666-04:00Hunger Games Thoughts<span style="font-weight: bold;">This is a spoiler-free zone for ALL the </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Hunger Games</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> novels. Please be considerate.</span><br /><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 264px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh762I_OQlofoEQQmJdpHlg0ULwOl-mHUnnPSB5XJwGouQDN1e56savvtZFcqPK7ssJX7jeIsDkwVuqs7ukJQvTS-T8bUY2FzqCVNRDzfrR8WrZ-I-yC9FF-l9OZSb1V15KhsE_Eml-pzAL/s400/mjay.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />As you may know, the final book of <span style="font-style: italic;">The Hunger Games</span> trilogy was released today. For many, it was a much anticipated event and are probably reading the book as we speak. Others, however, are not quite sure what the hype's about. Today, I wanted to know how did you learn about <span style="font-style: italic;">The Hunger Games</span> series. If you have not read it, why not? I know many are skeptical the novels will live up to the hype, but are there more reasons? I would really like to know. :)<br /><br />I'll also share my story. I discovered <span style="font-style: italic;">The Hunger Games</span> from <a href="http://www.teenreads.com/">teenreads.com</a>. The site had a promotion where the first (I forget the number) got an ARC of <span style="font-style: italic;">The Hunger Games</span>. Once he or she reviewed it, each person would receive a signed hardcover of the novel! Truthfully at first, I was skeptical. I received the ARC, and it was pitched as "a book that will change your life." This was before the book was even released, so I think my thoughts were only natural. However, then, I read the book and loved it! I sent my review, and for weeks I didn't receive a hardcover. I was not upset, I mean I got an ARC of the novel, what more could I ask for? But then the novel came in the mail, and to this day, it is one of my most prized books.<br /><br />So share your thoughts on the trilogy! :DKrista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-43433352952766620702010-08-23T08:00:00.001-04:002010-08-23T08:00:07.112-04:00ComebackHi everyone! I'd like to use this as an introductory post of sorts. I have been in the blogging world for two years. Lately, I feel like I have failed myself as a blogger. I do not update as much as I should. I barely post reviews. Even without my slumps, I haven't reviewed all the books I have read. Also, I have not given my readers a clear idea of who I am. So, I decided I need to changed! All this week, I will have reviews, posts about myself, and a big contest at the end! More so, I will continue to maintain my blog to the way I want it too. :)<br /><br />To begin, I will introduce myself. My name is Krista, and I am 18 years old. I live in Georgia, United States, and I just started college in Atlanta. I have always been an avid reader. Two years ago, I wandered upon some book blogs and thought, why not? Well, two years later, here I am? Aside from reading, I like food, photos, movies, and music (who doesn't like music?). Below is a picture of myself:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4081/4892617412_9ec666ea63.jpg" height="375" width="500" /><br /></div>Yay for built-in webcams on macbooks!Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-91374096986512293942010-08-16T16:15:00.000-04:002010-08-16T16:15:26.292-04:00Catching Fire - Suzanne Collins<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">WARNING: This post contains spoilers for anyone who has not read The Hunger Games. Proceed with caution.</span><br /></div><br /><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 200px; height: 297px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr8_-yhCl__UzzExl1IgreyIr26_MSA39_hp-_EZyLo5ZTsWkNSWKXTo4l8kIDHihcLiFZpWaj8W-ZEGHYf12i4dfgBvQVqwnYjrsPaZj_Be7X_iX-iczDL-55PiES4kc9BWpQ2_9jWtdJ/s400/catchingfire.png" border="0" /> Katniss Everdeen has survived the Hunger Games, along with fellow tribute Peeta Mellark. Katniss should be celebrating the wealth she has brought her entire family and district, but she can not. The terror she encountered in the Games still haunts her. The Capital also wants her dead. By pulling out the poisonous berries, Katniss defied the Capital, and no one defies the Capital. Soon, there are rumors of rebellion within several of Panem's districts--a rebellion that Katniss unknowingly created. Even worse, this is the 75th annual Hunger Games. Every 25 years, the Capital creates an even more vicious version of the Games. And this year's game is the unthinkable...<br /><br />I read <span style="font-style: italic;">The Hunger Games </span>two years ago, when the novel was first released. I loved it, and anxiously waited for <span style="font-style: italic;">Catching Fire</span>. Yet, I did not pre-order the book, and by the time it was released I had started school. I wanted to focus on my schoolwork and the ~60 books I own, yet have not read. When summer rolled around, I knew I had to read <span style="font-style: italic;">Catching Fire</span>. I ordered the book along with pre-ordering <span style="font-style: italic;">Mockingjay</span>. I started reading <span style="font-style: italic;">Catching Fire </span>the afternoon I received it in the mail. I read 340 pages that day, a record for me. The next morning I finished the rest of the book. If the speed at which I read this book does not tell you how much I enjoyed it, I do not know what will.<br /><br />The characters in this book are top-notch. Readers see more of their favorites from <span style="font-style: italic;">The Hunger Games</span>, along with a few new characters. Collins does not reveal much about the new characters, but I think they will play a larger role in <span style="font-style: italic;">Mockingjay</span>. Also, Collins is a great storyteller. Most of the chapters end with cliffhangers, so readers will continue to flip pages wanting to learn more. I did not necessarily like the direction this novel took about halfway through (if you want to know what exactly I mean by that, look in the comments), but it had no effect on how I felt about the novel overall.<br /><br />If you have not read <span style="font-style: italic;">Catching Fire</span> yet, READ IT. With the release of <span style="font-style: italic;">Mockingjay</span> in a week, there is no better time than now. Also, if you have read <span style="font-style: italic;">Catching Fire</span>, feel free to discuss your thoughts on it and/or predictions on <span style="font-style: italic;">Mockingjay</span> in the comments.<br /><br />P.S. I am Team Gale. :-P<br /><br /><u>Related Links</u><br /><a href="http://www.scholastic.com/thehungergames/">The Hunger Games Site</a><br /><a href="http://www.suzannecollinsbooks.com/">Suzanne Collin's Site</a><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Catching-Fire-Second-Hunger-Games/dp/0545310598/ref=pd_bxgy_b_img_a">Amazon</a><br /><a href="http://www.powells.com/biblio/1-9780439023498-4">Powell's</a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">I purchased this book.</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold;">WARNING: Comments may contain spoilers for <span style="font-style: italic;">The Hunger Games </span>trilogy.<br /></div>Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-53493364747045184112010-08-14T21:54:00.000-04:002010-08-14T21:55:03.428-04:00In My Mailbox Aug. 9-14In My Mailbox was created by Kristi of <a href="http://www.thestorysiren.com">The Story Siren</a>.<br /><br /><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 185px; height: 275px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v155/koalatees/cfire-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Catching Fire </span>by Suzanne Collins</span><br />Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has won the annual Hunger Games with fellow district tribute Peeta Mellark. But it was a victory won by defiance of the Capitol and their harsh rules. Katniss and Peeta should be happy. After all, they have just won for themselves and their families a life of safety and plenty. But there are rumors of rebellion among the subjects, and Katniss and Peeta, to their horror, are the faces of that rebellion. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge.<br /><br />I read <span style="font-style: italic;">The Hunger Games</span> when it was first released and loved it! For some reason, last year, I did not buy<span style="font-style: italic;"> Catching Fire</span>. Instead I waited until last week to order it, along with a pre-order of <span style="font-style: italic;">Mockingjay</span>. <span style="font-style: italic;">Catching Fire</span> came in the mail on Friday afternoon, and I finished it Saturday morning. So good!Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-70321736542894384472010-08-13T16:46:00.004-04:002010-08-13T16:52:15.188-04:00Life updateSo, in a week, I am going to college! Between reading <span style="font-style: italic;">Catching Fire</span> (as much as I loved <span style="font-style: italic;">The Hunger Games,</span> you would think I would have read it already) and preparing for the week, I've been preparing for college. Or rather, I <span style="font-style: italic;">should</span> be. Mostly, I am just procrastinating.<br /><br />Recently, I got chosen to be a CSN Preferred Blogger (yay!), and all their <a href="http://www.BedroomFurniture.com">bedroom furniture sets </a>reminded me even more how much I'm going to miss my bed. Seriously, I don't think a lofted bed could be quite as nice.Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-68743905662385826952010-08-12T00:00:00.000-04:002010-08-12T00:00:02.385-04:00Youtube Connection 12Youtube Connection is a Thursday feature where I will post a video (or more) that is somehow related to a book.<br /><br />This week's Youtube Connection is different in that it's the first time that I have not read the featured book. In doing this, I think I can help create buzz for more books, so I hope you enjoy the change. Anyway, this week's video is the book trailer for <span style="font-style: italic;">Love in the Present Tense</span> by Catherine Ryan Hyde. I previously reviewed <a href="http://upthetowerofbooks.blogspot.com/2010/04/becoming-chloe-catherine-ryan-hyde.html"><span style="font-style: italic;">Becoming Chloe</span></a>, which I liked. Enjoy!<br /><br /><object height="265" width="440"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/19xJu82R97U?fs=1&hl=en_US"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/19xJu82R97U?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="265" width="440"></embed></object>Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-35727528482420559102010-08-05T23:00:00.000-04:002010-08-05T23:01:02.455-04:00Questions!I feel like my readers (you!) don't really have a good idea of who I am, which is mostly my fault. As I prepare for my major comeback (of sorts), I thought I would give you opportunities to get to know me! I plan on having a week where I put up information about me, my blog, and book reviews. Oh and also CONTESTS. :D BUT first, today, I want you to ask me all the questions you have for me. You can use the form below, e-mail me, or comment. I'll answer all of them in a post on "The Week," as long as they are appropriate. I don't know when the actual week will be, but I'm leaning towards Aug. 23-30. I think that will be the soonest I will be able to.<br /><br />Oh, and asking my questions MAY get you bonus entries on a future giveaway. *hint* *hint*<br /><br />Ask away!<br /><br /><iframe src="http://spreadsheets.google.com/embeddedform?formkey=dHN5N0VXWElOaklnazlfUWN1cUVfMHc6MQ" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" width="760" frameborder="0" height="653">Loading...</iframe>Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-21032168561484672542010-08-03T12:00:00.001-04:002010-08-03T12:02:57.584-04:00Holly Schindler Writes...<img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 194px; height: 300px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v155/koalatees/bluedark.png" alt="" border="0" /><br />Holly Schindler is the author of<span style="font-style: italic;"> A Blue So Dark</span>.<br /><br />Sypnosis of <span style="font-style: italic;">A Blue So Dark</span>:<br /><blockquote>Fifteen-year-old Aura Ambrose has been hiding a secret. Her mother, a talented artist and art teacher, is slowly being consumed by schizophrenia, and Aura has been her sole caretaker ever since Aura's dad left them. Convinced that “creative” equals crazy, Aura shuns her own artistic talent. But as her mother sinks deeper into the darkness of mental illness, the hunger for a creative outlet draws Aura toward the depths of her imagination. Just as desperation threatens to swallow her whole, Aura discovers that art, love, and family are profoundly linked—and together may offer an escape from her fears.</blockquote><br />Today, I have a guest blog, on a very fitting topic, by Holly.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Getting Out Of A (Reading OR Writing) Slump<br /></span></div><blockquote><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; text-align: center; width: 301px; height: 400px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v155/koalatees/hschindler.jpg" alt="" border="0" /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">It can happen to any of us…our once-insatiable appetite for literature drops, with no explanation. Whether it’s a reading or writing passion, if it disappears, it can leave you feeling…kind of…guilty. Like you’re completely slacking.<br /></div></div><br />I say, get RID of the guilt. In my book, a slump is a sign that you’ve grown.<br /><br />Yup, that’s right. You’ve grown—because you’re no longer challenged. You’re stagnating. A slump means it’s time to expand those borders.<br /><br />Do not—I repeat—do NOT decide you need a break. Instead, get yourself to the library. And head STRAIGHT for the genre section you never approached before. Maybe romance. Or sci-fi. Or literary classics. Whatever you once avoided like the plague, ATTACK it. Immerse yourself. You’ll soon find yourself rejuvenated. I promise. Because a new genre means you’ve been thrown into a brand-new world.<br /><br />And if you’re a writer, the same applies—finding it hard to get motivated? Put aside your current project—not for forever, just for a while. Again, do NOT take a break. Stay in the rhythm of writing…but write something (say, a short story) in a genre you once thought you’d never master. (Even try your hand at poetry!) Once you’ve written a short piece—just for fun—you’ll find yourself ready to head back to tackle your current WIP.<br /><br />This bit of advice actually helped me find my way to the subject of my sophomore novel, PLAYING HURT, due out in 2011…My debut (A BLUE SO DARK) is a literary problem novel. PLAYING HURT is a romance.<br /><br />Yep, genre hopping. I’m pretty sure it’s the spice of life…</blockquote><br />If you would like to find out more about Holly or her books, you can visit her <a href="http://hollyschindler.com/">website</a> or her <a href="http://hollyschindler.blogspot.com/">blog</a>!Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-70807441069937336462010-08-01T15:55:00.000-04:002010-08-01T15:55:00.096-04:00In My Mailbox July 25-31In My Mailbox was created by Kristi of <a href="http://www.thestorysiren.com/">The Story Siren</a>.<br /><br /><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 182px; height: 280px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v155/koalatees/ounited.jpg" alt="" border="0" /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Outcasts United - Warren St. John</span><br />The extraordinary tale of a refugee youth soccer team and the transformation of a small American town<br /><br />Clarkston, Georgia, was a typical Southern town until it was designated a refugee settlement center in the 1990s, becoming the first American home for scores of families in flight from the world’s war zones—from Liberia and Sudan to Iraq and Afghanistan. Suddenly Clarkston’s streets were filled with women wearing the hijab, the smells of cumin and curry, and kids of all colors playing soccer in any open space they could find. The town also became home to Luma Mufleh, an American-educated Jordanian woman who founded a youth soccer team to unify Clarkston’s refugee children and keep them off the streets. These kids named themselves the Fugees.<br /><br />Set against the backdrop of an American town that without its consent had become a vast social experiment, Outcasts United follows a pivotal season in the life of the Fugees and their charismatic coach....<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Outcasts United</span> is actually my required reading for freshman seminar. I read the introduction, and I look forward to reading the rest. :PKrista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-10723484789108467802010-07-26T14:21:00.003-04:002010-07-26T14:27:58.114-04:00UpdateI just wanted to give a small update. I've already got in touch with the To Kill a Mockingbird winners. If you didn't win, then there will always be more chances to win. :P<br /><br />Last week, I went on vacation to Washington D.C. and New York City. The trip was exhausting, but fun. In NYC, I went to The Strand, which is a HUUUGE bookstore. I fell in love with it. :P I highly recommend anyone visiting NYC and love books to check it out. <br /><br />My cousins from Canada are coming over today and are staying for about two weeks, so my posts will probably be minimal. Afterwards, I plan on posting more. I still need to write my reveiw for <span style="font-style:italic;">Forget You</span> by Jennifer Echols. I also will try to schedule some posts because I know once my college starts, I will be super busy! If you're wondering, I'm going to be a freshman at Georgia Tech. Go Jackets! :D<br /><br />Oh, if you have any questions or comments, feel free to comment below or email me at towerofbooks(at)gmail(dot)com. I like getting to know my readers. ;)Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-82398550017187921862010-07-09T20:20:00.002-04:002010-07-09T20:23:45.148-04:00To Kill a Mockingbird 50th Anniversary/Giveaway<img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 239px; height: 226px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v155/koalatees/mckbird.png" alt="" border="0" />"Shoot all the bluejays you want, if you can hit 'em, but remember it's a sin to kill a mockingbird."<br /><br />A lawyer's advice to his children as he defends the real mockingbird of Harper Lee's classic novel—a black man charged with the rape of a white girl. Through the young eyes of Scout and Jem Finch, Harper Lee explores with rich humor and unswerving honesty the irrationality of adult attitudes toward race and class in the Deep South of the 1930s. The conscience of a town steeped in prejudice, violence, and hypocrisy is pricked by the stamina and quiet heroism of one man's struggle for justice—but the weight of history will only tolerate so much.<br /><br />The 50th anniversary edition of one of the best-loved books in American history: Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning classic To Kill a Mockingbird. Featuring some of the most memorable characters in literary history—attorney Atticus Finch, his children Scout and Jem, and of course Boo Radley—To Kill a Mockingbird is the indelible story of race, class, and growing up in the Deep South of the 1930s.<br /><br />To commemorate the Golden Anniversary of the “Best Novel of the 20th Century” (Library Journal poll of American librarians), filmmaker Mary Murphy has interviewed prominent figures—including Oprah, Anna Quindlen, and Tom Brokaw—on how the book has impacted their lives, and compiled the interviews in Scout, Atticus, and Boo: the perfect companion to one of the most important American books of the 20th Century. Additionally, Scout, Atticus, and Boo features a foreword from acclaimed writer Wally Lamb.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><object id="flashObj" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,47,0" width="230" height="240"><param name="movie" value="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9/31987679001?isVid=1"><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF"><param name="flashVars" value="videoId=85737307001&playerID=31987679001&domain=embed&dynamicStreaming=true"><param name="base" value="http://admin.brightcove.com"><param name="seamlesstabbing" value="false"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="swLiveConnect" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9/31987679001?isVid=1" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" flashvars="videoId=85737307001&playerID=31987679001&domain=embed&dynamicStreaming=true" base="http://admin.brightcove.com" name="flashObj" seamlesstabbing="false" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" swliveconnect="true" allowscriptaccess="always" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/shockwave/download/index.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash" width="230" height="240"></embed></object><br /></div><br />July 11th marks the 50th anniversary of To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. To celebrate the occasion, I was given the opportunity to give away 2 sets of To Kill a Mockingbird and a book companion, Scout, Atticus, and Boo: A Celebration of 50 Years of To Kill A Mockingbird. Also, many bookstores across the country are throwing parties for the book. You can find dates and participating stores here: http://tokillamockingbird50year.com/.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">To enter this giveaway, complete the form below! USA only, and the deadline is July 17 at 12 p.m. :)</span><br /><br /><iframe src="https://spreadsheets.google.com/embeddedform?formkey=dHBEa0pDSVV2Vy12eHQ3Vm1TVDBEWWc6MQ" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" width="440" frameborder="0" height="637">Loading...</iframe>Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-78333523430237556362010-07-06T16:25:00.000-04:002010-07-06T16:25:36.759-04:00CSN Gift Card WinnerThe winner of the $40 <a href="http://www.csnstores.com/ourstores.asp">CSN</a> gift card is...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://randombookishramblings.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-size:180%;">Jillian!</span></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Congratulations, and thanks to all that entered!<br /></div></div>Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-24439012988150787592010-07-05T18:00:00.003-04:002010-07-05T18:03:08.651-04:00Reading SlumpLately, I have been a reading slump. I'm just never in the mood to read. As a result, updating this blog has been hard. I have a few reviews I still need to write and post, but after that I'm just going to have to wait for this slump to pass.<br /><br />So, my question to you, how do you get yourself out of a reading slump?Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-39052270651631123542010-06-30T17:00:00.000-04:002010-06-30T17:00:00.654-04:00Wishlust 5Wishlust is where I will post a few books that are on my infinitely long wishlist. By infinitely long, I mean almost 600 books! Hopefully, you will find a book or two that seem interesting. =)<br /><br /><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 180px; height: 280px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v155/koalatees/pkrolands.jpg" alt="" border="0" /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Peak - Roland Smith</span><br />After Peak Marcello is arrested for scaling a New York City skyscraper, he’s left with two choices: wither away in Juvenile Detention or to go live with his long-lost father, who runs a climbing company in Thailand. But Peak quickly learns that his father’s renewed interest in him has strings attached. Big strings. He wants Peak to be the youngest person to reach the Everest summit—and his motives are selfish at best. Even so, for a climbing addict like Peak, tackling Everest is the challenge of a lifetime. But it’s also one that could cost him his life.<br /><br /><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; width: 185px; height: 278px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v155/koalatees/gmag.jpg" alt="" border="0" /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Geek Magnet - Kieran Scott</span><br />Everybody loves KJ. Especially the geeks. See, KJ Miller is super nice, smart, pretty, the stage manager of her high school’s spring musical . . . and a total geek magnet. She’s like the geek pied piper of Washington High, drawing every socially clueless guy in a five-mile radius. If only Cameron, the hottest guy in school, would follow her around and worship her the way her entourage of dorks do. Enter Tama Gold, queen of the popular crowd, and solution to all of KJ’s problems. KJ is too nice, and the nice girl never gets the guy. Tama’s ready to help KJ get cruel, ditch the dorks, and win Cameron’s heart. But is KJ?<br /><br /><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; width: 181px; height: 280px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v155/koalatees/bgeeklove.jpg" alt="" border="0" /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Band Geek Love - Josie Bloss</span><br />All band, all the time. That's how trumpet goddess Ellie Snow has made it to senior year. No drama, no dating. Just keeping lock-step within the safe precision of the Winslow Marching Band. She's a fierce section leader now, and so over the heart-crushing social disaster of her freshman year. No boy is going to ruin Ellie's shining moment-her senior solo performance at the homecoming game.<br /><br />And then Connor Higgins shows up. Not even Ellie can resist the trumpet player who could be a model for Abercrombie & Fitch. It's a hook-up made in band-geek heaven! But Ellie's not ready to publicize their romance, not even to her best friends. After all, Connor's just a sophomore. What would everyone say? Breaking formation and revealing her true self would be like . . . marching on the field completely naked!<br /><br />Then Ellie discovers the flipside of secrets and how it feels to be shut out by the ones she loves.Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-66451862384474198472010-06-27T13:15:00.000-04:002010-06-27T13:15:10.726-04:00In My Mailbox June 21-26In My Mailbox was created by Kristi of <a href="http://www.thestorysiren.com/">The Story Siren</a>.<br /><br /><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 185px; height: 279px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v155/koalatees/pbook.jpg" alt="" border="0" /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Pillow Book of Lotus Lowenstein - Libby Schmais </span><span>(from Book Divas</span>)<br /><br />Lotus Lowenstein's life is merde. She dreams of moving to Paris and becoming an existentialist. Yet here she is trapped in Park Slope, Brooklyn, with a New-Agey mom, an out-of-work dad, and a chess champion brother who dreams of being a rock star. Merci à Dieu for Lotus’s best friend, Joni, who loves French culture enough to cofound their high school’s first French Club with Lotus. At the first meeting, the cutest boy in the world walks in. His name is Sean, and he too loves French culture and worships Jean-Paul Sartre.<br /><br />At first, Lotus thinks Sean is the best thing to happen to her in years. He’s smart, cultured, and adorable. Unfortunately, though, Joni feels the same way. And having an existentialist view of love, Sean sees nothing wrong with enjoying both girls’ affections. Things come to a head when all three depart for Montreal with their teacher, Ms. G, on the French Club’s first official field trip. Will Sean choose Joni over Lotus? And will Lotus and Joni’s friendship ever recover?Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-71376544662002297052010-06-24T22:45:00.001-04:002010-08-11T23:07:26.493-04:00Youtube Connection 11Youtube Connection is a Thursday feature where I will post a video (or more) that is somehow related to a book I've read.<br /><br />This week's book is <span style="font-style: italic;">Butterfly</span> by Sonya Hartnett. The video is the trailer of the 2008 film <span style="font-style: italic;">Flashbacks of a Fool</span>. Even though the novel and movie are different, a character in <span style="font-style: italic;">Butterfly </span>(Maureen) strongly reminded me of a character in <span style="font-style: italic;">Flashbacks of a Fool </span>(Evelyn). Enjoy!<br /><br /><object height="265" width="440"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/aETjJ7aGRZ8&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/aETjJ7aGRZ8&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="265" width="440"></embed></object>Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-44041484352181513822010-06-23T17:00:00.000-04:002010-06-23T17:00:00.318-04:00The Unwritten Rule - Elizabeth Scott<img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 128px; height: 194px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v155/koalatees/unwrittenrule.png" alt="" border="0" />Sarah likes Ryan, the one person that she <span style="font-style: italic;">cannot</span> like, no matter how long she has liked him. The truth is, Ryan is Brianna's boyfriend, her best friend. No one likes the boyfriend of a best friend. However, no matter how hard she tries to be a great best friend, Sarah cannot resist the temptation. Will Sarah ever be able to tell Brianna her feelings toward Ryan, and if she does, will Brianna ever want to see her again? Caught in between wanting to be a good best friend and having Ryan, will Sarah be able to a make a choice that will make herself happy?<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">The Unwritten Rule</span> is my first Elizabeth Scott novel. To be honest, I was slightly disappointed. I felt that Scott did not fulfill the book's complete potential. Scott characterizes Brianna as a bossy person, who only shows affection through unkind remarks. Throughout the novel, I was just waiting for Sarah to stand up for herself. I felt like she was a complete pushover. Scott demonstrates that Brianna's nature is due to her parents' treatment of her. However, I still <span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">could not</span></span> feel sympathetic towards her.<br /><br />The ending took me by surprise. I expected a "and they all lived happily ever after" sort of ending, but it was not. Without spoiling anything, Scott ends the novel in a way that makes complete sense with the characters in the novel. It's hard to say much without spoiling.<br /><br />After reading <span style="font-style: italic;">The Unwritten Rule</span>, I can see that Scott is an author that is not afraid to take risks. In this case, I thought that some of risks worked (the ending), while others failed (Brianna's character). I look forward to reading more books by Scott. I currently have <span style="font-style: italic;">Perfect You</span> on my bookshelf, and her more serious novels look fantastic too.<br /><br /><u>Related Links</u><br /><a href="http://www.elizabethwrites.com/">Elizabeth Scott's Site</a><br /><a href="http://teen.simonandschuster.com/">Simon Pulse</a><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Unwritten-Rule-Elizabeth-Scott/dp/1416978917">Amazon</a><br /><a href="http://www.powells.com/biblio/17-9781416978916-0">Powell's</a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">I won this book from a giveaway.</span>Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909176646223103982.post-66247262693145201602010-06-21T16:26:00.005-04:002010-06-21T16:57:54.483-04:00Trips GiveawaySince this is my last summer before I start college (at Georgia Tech!), I wanted to make sure it was amazing. Over the weekend I went to Mississippi. I had a great time, but you know, my favorite thing about going on trips is coming back! Nothing is better than returning to my <a href="http://www.bedroomfurniture.com/Beds-C2363.html">bed</a>!<br /><br />Speaking of summer, I wanted to know how your summer is! Not too mention, I have a great opportunity for all of my readers! Meaning, giveaway time. Just fill out the form (link below) for a chance to win a $40 gift card, which you can use at any <a href="http://www.csnstores.com/ourstores.asp">CSN Store</a>! There may be shipping charges or, in the case of Canadian addresses, international fees for certain products. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Giveaway ends July 4th</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><a href="https://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?formkey=dF9ObWJnQjMyU1hEa1BQNFdjMVFnOVE6MQ">FORM</a></span>Krista/Tower of Bookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04938509998205306639noreply@blogger.com0