SPOTTED | The Cadillac of Books

One book. Two readers. A world of mystery, menace, and desire. A young woman picks up a book left behind by a stranger. Inside it are his margin notes, which reveal a reader entranced by the story and by its mysterious author. She responds with notes of her own, leaving the book for the stranger, and so begins an unlikely conversation that plunges them both into the unknown.

The book: Ship of Theseus, the final novel by a prolific but enigmatic writer named V.M. Straka, in which a man with no past is shanghaied onto a strange ship with a monstrous crew and launched onto a disorienting and perilous journey.

The writer: Straka, the incendiary and secretive subject of one of the world’s greatest mysteries, a revolutionary about whom the world knows nothing apart from the words he wrote and the rumors that swirl around him.

The readers: Jennifer and Eric, a college senior and a disgraced grad student, both facing crucial decisions about who they are, who they might become, and how much they’re willing to trust another person with their passions, hurts, and fears.

S., conceived by filmmaker J. J. Abrams and written by award-winning novelist Doug Dorst, is the chronicle of two readers finding each other in the margins of a book and enmeshing themselves in a deadly struggle between forces they don’t understand, and it is also Abrams and Dorst’s love letter to the written word. 

-Amazon

Dear Blue,

I interrupt your Christmas festivities to bring you one of the most beautiful novels I own. I don't know about you, but I was always the type in college to buy used novels with unabashed glee. The more marks, scribbles, facts, and underlines a book contains, especially of classic books, the more I want it. Sure, I love new books like the next person, but sometimes I like a book to feel lived in like an old pair of jeans. Thankfully, these are always the cheapest! I remember when I was in elementary school, my mom bought me this beautiful hardcover special edition of The Babysitter's Club, containing all sorts of Christmas greetings, letters, and pictures to explore. I wore this book out! But I've stumbled upon a grown up version of that wonder. The Cadillac of books, also known as my book boyfriend for the time being (next to The Giver).

I knew nothing of  S , when my book bud, Kate, told me about it, than it's synopsis, and it's aesthetic beauty...but that was enough to make me grab my shopping bag full of pennies, and rush out an acquire it the very next day. S is a novel conceived by acclaimed director J.J. Abrams and PEN/Hemingway award nominee Doug Dorst about a fictitious enigmatic author named V. M. Straka and his grand last work, Ship of Theseus.  The story within a story is told through the correspondences written in the margins by Jennifer, and undergrad who discovers said novel in the  university library, and Eric, a grad student studying Straka. It seems the authors sought to make us characters as well, by creating a physical Ship of Theseus, and allowing readers to discover the story and its author, as the characters do. Ambitious and so very awesome. I fell in love with Jen and Eric just by reading their banter on the title page (above).

"What begins at the water shall end there. And what ends there shall once more begin."

S is a book lovers dream come true. Its' publishers managed to recreate the likeness of an old library book, even down to the stamps on the spine and inside covers. It carries the faint fragrance of age. I haven't allowed myself to truly explore the novel yet (as I just purchased it), but the whole concept of it thrills me. It feels like being a part of an epic secret that you get to hold in your hands everyday. Plus how awesome would it be to engage a stranger about books, in the actual book itself?

In speaking with my friend, Ariel, who rushed out for his own copy this week, we discussed how publishers are now tasked with the challenge of creating quality physical books in a world practically operating on Whispersync. We chatted about books being a completely immersive experience--not that words necessarily need anything more than life to create a wondrous experience--but that authors/publishers would use other mediums to their advantage to further enhance the text. I'm loving that more authors and publishers are creating such interactive reading experiences by the inclusion of letters, videos, tokens like napkins or maps, or anything to make this conceived world feel even more real. What do you think about these additions? Do they thrill you, or distract you from a novel?

S is a bit pricier than the average, well by a few dollars or so ($28 with a Barnes and Noble discount and 30% off/ $35 without), but on first impressions, I find this to be a magical homage to the beauty words. I can see us fangirling for a while over the bits tucked into these pages.

Hugs, Love, and Unabashed Fangirling,

Book Haul | Christmas Loot

Dear Blue,

Britta Tunes | Snow by Sleeping At Last. Download his free Christmas Album here!

Merry Christmas, Dearie! I pray that this Holiday Season has been so blessed for you and your family and friends.

This season has brought with it two snow storms, and a flurry of diamond sparkle down 5th Avenue, adorning the streets like a fairy tale. Yet it's only when the temperature rose, melting the snow, that my mind and heart decided to believe it's actually Christmas (time is a speeding bullet now-a-days). With my rise in spirit, I thought I would show you the latest books I've acquired for Christmas.

Young Rachel Kalama, growing up in idyllic Honolulu in the 1890s, is part of a big, loving Hawaiian family, and dreams of seeing the far-off lands that her father, a merchant seaman, often visits. But at the age of seven, Rachel and her dreams are shattered by the discovery that she has leprosy. Forcibly removed from her family, she is sent to Kalaupapa, the isolated leper colony on the island of Moloka'i. In her exile she finds a family of friends to replace the family she's lost: a native healer, Haleola, who becomes her adopted "auntie" and makes Rachel aware of the rich culture and mythology of her people; Sister Mary Catherine Voorhies, one of the Franciscan sisters who care for young girls at Kalaupapa; and the beautiful, worldly Leilani, who harbors a surprising secret. At Kalaupapa she also meets the man she will one day marry. True to historical accounts, Moloka'i is the story of an extraordinary human drama, the full scope and pathos of which has never been told before in fiction. But Rachel's life, though shadowed by disease, isolation, and tragedy, is also one of joy, courage, and dignity. This is a story about life, not death; hope, not despair. It is not about the failings of flesh, but the strength of the human spirit. -Amazon

I had not been hunting for Moloka'i by Alan Brennert when I discovered it at Barnes & Noble over the weekend, like my other finds, but it's beautiful cover literally drew me towards it whilst on the way to the cafe. It's gorgeous, first of all. Secondly, I've never read any novels set within historical Hawaii (or Hawaii at all, for that matter) and I love learning new things about the histories of other countries, especially countries that don't seem to be as popular in storytelling. This novel seems to be slightly heartbreaking, what with it's young heroine being sent to a leper colony, but I always love to start out the New Year with stories about people overcoming almost hopeless odds. I have a feeling that Rachel will be in my top ten characters of 2014 (God Willing).

The New York Times bestselling author of Just My Type and On the Map offers an ode to letter writing and its possible salvation in the digital age. Few things are as exciting—and potentially life-changing—as discovering an old letter. And while etiquette books still extol the practice, letter writing seems to be disappearing amid a flurry of e-mails, texting, and tweeting. The recent decline in letter writing marks a cultural shift so vast that in the future historians may divide time not between BC and AD but between the eras when people wrote letters and when they did not. So New York Times bestselling author Simon Garfield asks: Can anything be done to revive a practice that has dictated and tracked the progress of civilization for more than five hundred years? In To the Letter, Garfield traces the fascinating history of letter writing from the love letter and the business letter to the chain letter and the letter of recommendation. He provides a tender critique of early letter-writing manuals and analyzes celebrated correspondence from Erasmus to Princess Diana. He also considers the role that letters have played as a literary device from Shakespeare to the epistolary novel, all the rage in the eighteenth century and alive and well today with bestsellers like The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. At a time when the decline of letter writing appears to be irreversible, Garfield is the perfect candidate to inspire bibliophiles to put pen to paper and create “a form of expression, emotion, and tactile delight we may clasp to our heart.” - Amazon

At this point, you know that the latter half of my year has been taken up with an enthusiastic letter love, so when I saw this awesome book showcased on the Barnes & Noble Non Fiction Releases table, I knew I had to jump in. To The Letter by Simon Garfield seems the perfect way to give me the warm and fuzzies for letter writing, and hopefully, I'll end up writing some next year. Who knows, maybe we both will, Blue.

Lois Lowry won her first Newbery Medal in 1994 for The Giver. Six years later, she ushered readers back into its mysterious but plausible future world in Gathering Blue to tell the story of Kira, orphaned, physically flawed, and left with an uncertain future.-Amazon

After watching Catching Fire (five wonderful times) I could not shake myself out of Suzanne Collins' rich Dystopian world. I decided to reread Mockingjay, and it beguiled me so much that after reading, I wanted to find another dystopian world to inhabit for a time. That being said, a lot of popular dystopian literature out there has managed to bore me a bit (aside from the Legend series, of course!), so I thought I'd go a little classic for a change. I remember reading The Giver in High School (Fun Fact: The Giver introduced me to the magic of the Dystopia), and loving it so much. So, as I'm now immersed in the world of The Giver, I decided I best hurry and pick up it's companion novel, Gathering Blue by Lois Lowry. I actually bought this in paperback some years ago, but the hardcover takes the cake. The cover art for this entire series is awesome. I can't wait to jump in to this story...and try to stop myself from buying the rest of the series on impulse!

Prue McKeel’s life is ordinary. At least until her baby brother is abducted by a murder of crows. And then things get really weird. You see, on every map of Portland, Oregon, there is a big splotch of green on the edge of the city labeled “I.W.” This stands for “Impassable Wilderness.” No one’s ever gone in—or at least returned to tell of it. And this is where the crows take her brother. So begins an adventure that will take Prue and her friend Curtis deep into the Impassable Wilderness. There they uncover a secret world in the midst of violent upheaval, a world full of warring creatures, peaceable mystics, and powerful figures with the darkest intentions. And what begins as a rescue mission becomes something much bigger as the two friends find themselves entwined in a struggle for the very freedom of this wilderness. A wilderness the locals call Wildwood. Wildwood is a spellbinding tale full of wonder, danger, and magic that juxtaposes the thrill of a secret world and modern city life. Original and fresh yet steeped in classic fantasy, this is a novel that could have only come from the imagination of Colin Meloy, celebrated for his inventive and fantastic storytelling as the lead singer of the Decemberists. With dozens of intricate and beautiful illustrations by award-winning artist Carson Ellis, Wildwood is truly a new classic for the twenty-first century. -Amazon

Wildwood by Colin Meloy (on cover art alone) is one of those novels that draws bibliophiles everywhere to obtain a copy of it. Look at this beautiful folksy artwork. Then I just found myself in a classic fairytale adventure mood. I've read the first chapter of this novel, and it had me tickled at "the murder of crows". The spin on this children's fantasy that I love is that it is set within the woodsy 'folkland' of Portland, Oregon. It's like the tumblr homebase (I know I'm not the only person who's love for the great outdoors, forests, and wild streams has grown since being on Tumblr). It seems a very fresh and artistic take on middle grade fantasy, and I'm sure this book will find it's home in your library before long.

A collection of poignant essays about the transformative power of knitting by twenty-seven extraordinary writers. “The impressive collection of writers here have contributed essays that celebrate knitting and knitters. They share their knitting triumphs and disasters as well as their life triumphs and disasters. . . . These essays will break your heart. They will have you laughing out loud.”—Ann Hood, from the introduction Why does knitting occupy a place in the hearts of so many writers? What’s so magical and transformative about yarn and needles? How does knitting help us get through life-changing events and inspire joy? In Knitting Yarns, twenty-seven writers tell stories about how knitting healed, challenged, or helped them to grow. Barbara Kingsolver describes sheering a sheep for yarn. Elizabeth Berg writes about her frustration at failing to knit. Ann Patchett traces her life through her knitting, writing about the scarf that knits together the women she’s loved and lost. Knitting a Christmas gift for his blind aunt helped Andre Dubus III knit an understanding with his girlfriend. Kaylie Jones finds the woman who used knitting to help raise her in France and heals old wounds. Sue Grafton writes about her passion for knitting. Also included are five original knitting patterns created by Helen Bingham. Poignant, funny, and moving, Knitting Yarns is sure to delight knitting enthusiasts and lovers of literature alike. -Amazon

Since this lovely post about Katniss' fashion in Catching Fire, I have jumped into a blazing sea of wild and colorful yarn, endeavoring to recreate that beautiful cowl shawl by the end of next year (God Willing). I went to the book shop looking for a manual of sorts, and the first book to pop up in my search was Knitting Yarns by Ann Hood. I consider this one of my huge signs that learning to knit may just be a wonderful step in my life, as the book showcases writers' takes on how knitting has impacted their lives. I've read two stories already, and I love each heartfelt remembrance.  If you'd like to follow my adventures in knitting, feel free to follow me on tumblr at Twining Necklaces (a name inspired by Mockingjay where Katniss and Prim are making necklaces after learning the ominous song, The Hanging Tree. I know. I promise, I have no more a reason for this name than that it's Hunger Games related, and it's pretty :-).

I'm over the moon for the books I've acquired this Christmas! What biblio-goodies have you been gifted this year?

And last but not least, I pray all of the blessings in the world for you and yours, Blue. Enjoy the Holidays, and remember there's nothing more blessed than love, and appreciating every person the Lord has blessed you with. Never take them for granted.

Hugs and love,

Sartorial Lit | The Victory Tour Fashion Inspiration

Sartorial Lit is a feature at Novel Days that combines fashion with fiction.

Dear Blue:

Happy Cyber Monday! I hope that you had such a blessed Thanksgiving, and that if you chose to come out with the hordes of people seeking sales on Black Friday, that you were safe. 

I spent loads of time with family, ate pretty much everything, and was surprised with a third showing of Catching Fire (I didn't plan it, I promise! I've got an estimate of two more showings with my Dad and a Friend...What?! I promise I'm not crazy!). With each viewing, something else pops out at me that I may have missed. Yet, each time, the one thing that stood out clearly was that if I had access to Katniss' wardrobe, I would jump in, and no one would see me ever again! 

I tend to be a person who can see loads of possibility for my summer wardrobe. It's light, airy, and you don't need to shield yourself from often frightening cold. However, over the last few years or so, I've come to realize how possible it is to be fashionable, stay warm, and be comfortable all at once. I love over-sized sweaters, and cowl necks, and huge scarves, and what do you know, Trish Summerville, the costumer for Catching Fire, loves them too! Here's what I found whilst perusing Polyvore for Victory Tour Inspired looks:

Catching Fire coloring ranges from mutes to vibrant reds. It's quite a somber story that Trish Summerville so expertly executes by allowing wardrobe to correlate with Panem's District muted spectrum of colors. It goes without mentioning that Katniss' Capitol Couture is the stuff of dreams, but I found myself drawn to her wardrobe in the Victory Tour as it most links with the clothes you and I might wear on an everyday basis. Trish Summerville has such talent in showcasing Katniss' new status as victor through wardrobe, while capturing her character so that nothing seems over done as it might in the Capitol. I loved Katniss' asymmetrical knit sweaters, leather/knit combos, coats with huge collars and cowl necks. You can pair either of these items with form fitting jeans, or quality made leggings, and leather boots. Can you feel that, Blue? The feeling of a rainy Saturday, with your favorite comfy sweater and a Gingerbread Latte? (I never liked Gingerbread Lattes, but Starbucks' new recipe is not to miss!).

The most coveted item in Katniss' wardrobe seems to be her Cowl Neck wrap! I wish that I could find one in stores, but at the same time, I feel that this wrap, along with every other knit piece, captures a District 12 handmade spirit. It would probably mean a whole lot more to you if it were handmade, be it by you, or someone else. Etsy has a few listings for this shawl (1 |  2-Pattern), and if you're more ambitious (I'm looking at you Gabbie), one of my good friends, Casee, sent me the link to Ecouterre's free patterns for it. Does this pattern seem like a novice could dive right in? I'd love to know. (I was unable to find an adequate translation for Katniss' reaping suit, which I adore. Also her knit nightgown worn during the beautiful scene where she asks Peeta to stay with her after having a nightmare. If you find something, please, drop me a tweet :-).

{ 1 | 2 | 3 | 4}

One of my favorite pastimes is collecting subtle bookish accessories. Of course, I swoon over Hot Topic's movie merch like every other fan out there, but, there's something about wearing accessories, and ascribing meaning to it that won't automatically call you out as that crazed Hunger Games Fan! If you love bookish accessories, Etsy is literally a treasure trove of special trinkets to boast your lit love. In terms of recreating some of Katniss' iconic looks, I would pair my outfits with burnished golds, silvers, metallic's. Simplistic items that aren't overly gaudy or dripping in sparkle. Antique lockets like the one above which has freeze dried rose petals and baby's breath inside of it (How poetic is that?). Incorporate pearls with a twist of burnished metals, or simplistic bow and arrows. They're all just enough to fan over, but not enough to make you look a bit odd at work.

Once again, I hope that you enjoyed Catching Fire as much as I did, and I pray you have a wonderful week, Blue!

Love,

Brit-Scratch | Britta the Novel Reading Cartoon!

Dear Blue,

I have something so exciting to show you! Two years ago, my cousin Ash took a picture of me on my birthday reading in front of the Crown Queen of Macaron Patisserie's, Laduree. I initially wanted more  adorable photos of me to place on my blog, and other blog centric social networks. 

Flash forward to two months or so ago, I allowed the new hit show Sleepy Hollow to infiltrate my life, and I  began to notice the work of wonderful artists on Tumblr. Amongst said artists is the lovely Asieybarbie who is legendary in her own right, creating imaginative illustrations of awesome superheroes, cartoons, and comic awesomeness (often racially bent, which makes me so happy. Sailor Moon a woman of color...Asieybarbie has an app for that!). But with the adorable illustrations of Abbie Mills and Ichabod Crane, I knew I had to contact her for this illustration.  And just look at the beauty she's created!

I can't express how weird it is to see yourself in cartoon form. It's so surreal, but so beautiful. I can't tell you how starstruck I am to have a piece by her, as I know her career will only skyrocket to the Milky Way, and I'll be able to say I have a personalized original of her work! If you're a fan of Sleepy Hollow, or not, check out some of AsieyBarbie's super cool work!

I hope that you all have the most blessed Thanksgiving, dearies! I love you, and am praying for you always!

Yours truly, 

Fangirl | What Did I Just Watch?!-Catching Fire Film Review

Dear Blue,

....

....

Hear that, Blue? That's my awed silence in wake of Catching Fire! After so many horrible YA adaptations, I've learned not to have much of an expectation, but Lionsgate continues to show the whole of the film industry how these films should be made! They've managed to step up their game without over sensationalizing it because of a larger budget. Grab your mom, dad, your friends, siblings, coworkers and go see a spectacular two hours and some odd minutes of awesome! I left the theater in a haze of excitement that could only be remedied by second viewing yesterday! Both of the audiences I sat with irrupted in applause at least three times during the film...that says loads.

It goes without saying that Jennifer, Josh, and Liam did an absolutely fabulous job of capturing the maturation and, in Katniss and Peeta's case, the post traumatic stress of surviving The Hunger Games. Jennifer always thrills me with how true her emotions are during heartwrenching scenes. 

Much of my delight came from the new cast of characters we meet in Catching Fire. Jena Malone is Johanna Mason. She is one of the characters that my cousin, Ash, and I turned to each other raving about how spot on Lionsgate is when casting characters. Jena captures Johanna's fierce and rebellious spirit so so well (Edit: that Elevator scene. Classic)! Lynn Cohen as Mags...absolutely adorable! Of the new characters the one that most surprised me was Sam Claflin's portrayal of our seafaring warrior Finnick (Isn't it awesome that we may have varying opinions of Peeta and Gale, but everyone's on Finnick's team?!). Sam, quite frankly, blew my mind as Finnick. He brought that smooth confidence, sex appeal, and vulnerability that shows through the cracks in his armor. In Love. Philip Seymour Hoffman as Plutarch Heavensbee, genius. It was during his discussions with President Snow that the hair all but raised on my arms. So chilling and deceptive.

Can I say that I would wear every single outfit that Katniss dons during the tour? (I feel a Sartorial Lit post coming on for this). The Wardrobe department blows minds and steals hearts with each scene. Johanna Mason's dresses are so beautiful, and Katniss' wedding dress...that's obvious! I loved Peeta's regal suits. I loved how they were slightly asymmetrical, and imaginative in the sights of the Capitol, and yet slightly downplayed, and debonair, reflective of Peeta's character.

Catching Fire sets were beyond gorgeous. The capitol seems more overwhelming than before, reflective of the higher stakes in this sequel. The arena is beyond what I could've imagined. It holds a startling beauty, that beguiles as much as it threatens. Loved it. And the film score....my gosh it's golden!

I wish that I could say more, but, I'd hate to throw spoilers your way. Oh the Everlark feels, Blue stocks and ties *cries*. Emotions run high in this film, every hurt so fresh and heartbreaking. 

Just, go see it. It's one of the best movies this year.

(Edit: My only problem with this movie: Gale kisses. Really Gale?)

I am, most respectfully, (hugs and points to everyone who can pinpoint where this comes from :-).

"It takes nothing to say you love a person when she's perfect..." BOOK REVIEW | In the Age of Love and Chocolate by Gabrielle Zevin

All These Things I’ve Done, the first novel in the Birthright series, introduced us to timeless heroine Anya Balanchine, a plucky sixteen year old with the heart of a girl and the responsibilities of a grown woman. Now eighteen, life has been more bitter than sweet for Anya. She has lost her parents and her grandmother, and has spent the better part of her high school years in trouble with the law. Perhaps hardest of all, her decision to open a nightclub with her old nemesis Charles Delacroix has cost Anya her relationship with Win. Still, it is Anya’s nature to soldier on. She puts the loss of Win behind her and focuses on her work. Against the odds, the nightclub becomes an enormous success, and Anya feels like she is on her way and that nothing will ever go wrong for her again. But after a terrible misjudgment leaves Anya fighting for her life, she is forced to reckon with her choices and to let people help her for the first time in her life. In the Age of Love and Chocolate is the story of growing up and learning what love really is. It showcases the best of Gabrielle Zevin’s writing for young adults: the intricate characterization of Memoirs of a Teenage Amnesiac and the big-heartedness of Elsewhere. It will make you remember why you loved her writing in the first place. -Amazon

Dear Blue,

Sending loads of love and a nice bar of Dark Room chocolate!

Anya Balanchine and friends are my wayward distant family who only visit once in a while, bearing epic stories of drastic proportions. And like family, they can do pretty much whatever they'd like (within reason), and I'd still love them. With, In The Age of Love and Chocolate, Gabrielle Zevin brings Anya full circle, revealing a mature entrepreneur who finally seems at peace with the path her life is taking. She's successful, a wonderful guardian to her younger sister, Natty, and a supportive friend, however, certain 'mafiya' ties begin to seep slowly into her life once more, awakening regrets, and furthermore threatening her life. Threats aside, the one lesson that proves more precarious than them all, is the battle that wages inside  herself to accept love, and stop punishing herself for her past decisions.

I tend to have highly romantic sentiments. I've had them ever since I was little and became quite taken with the idea that people can mean more to each other than day to day sincerity. But, I also battle with a more cynical side that questions everything quietly. This is what I most adore about Ms. Anya Balanchine. She holds a character that seems to be lacking in young adult literature. Most heroine's seem to have overwhelming romantic sensibilities, or the facade of angst, that gives way to ruminating constantly on their love interests. Don't get me wrong, I'm not pro superfluous angst. I quite love characters that share the balance. But Anya's real, and the more positive side of the way she thinks is that she is not all love and no accomplishment. She has ambitious goals, and is unwilling to give them up, even if it means giving up (though reluctantly) the one she loves.  She likes to think love exists, but the realities she's been exposed to at such a young age prevents her from seeing the sunnier side of the street. She never reads as some kid whining to be whining, and I really appreciated this. I most love the growth that Gabrielle Zevin brings about in her so beautifully. I get the feeling that Zevin had quite a bit of fun throwing Anya's life in the garbage disposal for three novels, but to tie it all together in a rich 'Zevin'tine' dark...priceless.

Along with growth, Gabrielle Zevin packs as much action, and out of pocket scenarios as always for a fast paced, exciting read. This action is what I've come to love about the Birthright series in the first place. I always felt as if I could never come close to predicting what would happen. Like Mr. Delacroix. He's one of the most spectacular things to happen to this novel. Such a portrait of what it means to forgive.

All of the above said, I can't think of a better way to end this series. I literally got every single thing I could've wanted (in a non Breaking Dawn kind of way). Truth be told, all I cared about was my darling Yuji Ono. From the first novel, Yuji struck a smooth, dangerous chord with me that refused to let up. He is the Peeta of the Birthright series. Not because they both have the same personalities (in fact they might even be polar opposites), but out of the cast of possible love interests, Yuji's the only one who can truly sympathize with what being in a mafiya family means. Win, however, is extraordinarily special because he causes Anya to snap out of herself, and embrace a happiness she never thought possible. Win is Peeta in personality and action (I'm just taking this opportunity to brag about Peeta as much as possible before the premiere of Catching Fire... and now back to your regularly scheduled programming).

Bare in mind: In The Age of Love and Chocolate contains violence.

It's so rare to find a great unconventional story that both grabs your attention like a comet, and is also filled with a subtly greater message. The Birthright Series is that story. It's been such a treat lingering in this awesome futuristic New York City, and I'm really gonna miss it!

Let's head to a cafe and fangirl over 5 cups of Theobromas.

Hugs and love,

BOOKSCAPES | The Strand Bookstore Pop up in Club Monaco

Dear Blue,

Happy Friday!

I was putting on my coat last Friday afternoon, readying myself for lunch, when I spied a tweet from the Strand Bookstore, my very own haven of books and sunshine and happy feels. For some whimsical reason they've decided to team up with the elegant clothing store, Club Monaco, in a pairing that can only promise happy wanderings. I immediately sought the help of Google to find this beautiful place, and decided to pay them a visit after work. During my search, I read that the powers over Club Monaco decided on the pairing in hopes to make their shopping experience likened to their lifestyle blog, Culture Club. I'm in love with the idea of more stores conceptualizing their brands into something of a lifestyle.

Once I arrived to Club Monaco (my first time ever), I figured I would make a beeline towards the books, but the store literally swallows you whole in elegance. So many whites, sparkling jewelry, and garments I can only dream about (for the moment, at least). And then I spotted the little Strand island, a warm feeling rising inside of me. The clutter and stacks and stacks of books that I'd come to love about the Strand experience was now petite, fashionable, and as clean as the store they'd inhabited. I adore both versions. It's a little surreal to watch young men and woman in the trendiest fashions walk into this section, and grab a little Murakami, or frosty blue Mockingjay, or a rare edition of Bukowski. Such a delightful pairing, dear!

If you ever take a trip there, though I did not capture this in my short film, there's a cafe as well, to whet your palette for fashion, literature, and coffee!

Hugs and love,

Fangirl | Catching Fire Trailer Reactions

Dear Blue:

Happy Hump Day! I hope that you are well, my friend.

You're probably wondering: The Catching Fire trailers released some months ago...where are Britta's rants? Even though I'm years late with my reactions to the three monolithic trailers, don't think I haven't rolled around the floor in sweet agony like you probably have! I think they may have released the trailers backwards,  but each have fully exceeded my expectations. I can barely talk about it without becoming excited and swallowing down tears!  Instead of going over each one, I figured why not smush them together and head to town. 

Let's talk about acting for a second: 

Did we not luck out with this beautiful all star cast? I'm not sure I've ever experienced a cast in a young adult adaptation that are so well suited to their roles. Oh my gosh. Every single emotion that can be gathered from Catching Fire is portrayed in these three trailers by every actor so beautifully that I almost forget Jennifer, Josh, Liam, etc., and only see the story. How many YA films do we get like this, guys? I can't tell you how much I appreciate a YA adaptation that is thoughtful, serious, and not dumbed down by sappy romance (I love a good romance, but too many times producers turn something beautiful into a joke. That bothers me.), merchandise on every street corner, Team arguments. Could a finer actor than Donald Sutherland have played President Snow? I think not. "Her entire species must be eradicated..." gives me chills, and makes me more than a little ticked off. Seeing the emotion in the arena from the final trailer, released last Sunday, had me shaking my head long after I'd finished my tenth viewing of it. The scene with the Jabberjays, and Katniss and Peeta...my gosh. After watching THG, I thought that Josh played Peeta wonderfully, but I wondered if he would be able to pull off the full transformation that Peeta endures over the series. The Jabberjay scene removed any reservation I had. I'll be in tears, and hugging you wherever you are.

On Effects/Settings/Costumes: 

I thought that they did a phenomenal job translating this aspect of the series in the last film, but boy have they upped the ante in Catching Fire. I remember when the photos first released of Effie, Katniss, and Peeta...they looked so beautiful. Cinna's Mockingjay gown...I literally cried during the scene where her wings unfurl (lots of tears in this letter, I know). And Peeta's suit though...his suit!! Freaking, yes! The Capitol seems all the more overwhelming in this film, and seeing as Catching Fire takes us a bit deeper into Capitol politics, it seems very well portrayed in the trailers. I believe it was one of my favorite booktubers Polandbananasbooks who noted that Victor's Village looks a bit like a cemetary...great comparison. Victor's Village is, in someways, paved with the blood of the other tributes-- it's cold, and I'm looking forward to experiencing it on film. Especially the little snippet we have of Peeta and Katniss having to act for the camera's that seem to pop out of the ground in Victor's Village. How creepy is that? They don't even need to pay paparazzi anymore. (*rolls eyes, gesturing to the Capitol*).

On the Soundtrack

This is the only aspect of the film that's disappointing me a little. I was all on board when Coldplay released Atlas. It's a gorgeous song, but it also made me a little worried. A lot of people expressed disdain for THG soundtrack because of its somber undertones, but that's part of the reason I loved it so much. It was quiet, folky, acoustic, and more importantly accomplished capturing the undertones of the book. I'm not sure that Catching Fire's soundtrack does the same, or it's possible that I'm just a sad sack in need of another tearful album. That being said, there are a lot of bands on the soundtrack that I haven't heard of, so I'll have to give it another listen (But, I'm almost sure its not as vinyl worthy as the last film. Yep, I've got that vinyl).

Are you pumped for the movie yet? I am. I've gotten my cousins Mockingjay pins, I've figured out my glamazon Catching Fire themed eyeshadow, and I'm primed to don this uber awesome tee from Hot Topic. I'm set and ready to fly. 

What do you think of the trailers? 

P.S.- Happy early holidays. The red cups are back at Starbucks...run for a Caramel Brulee latte!

Hugs and love,

Spotted | The Novel Cure: 751 Books to Cure What Ails You by Ella Bethoud and Susan Elderkin

Dear Blue:

Loads of smiles and blessings to you, Dearie. 

I come bearing a gift sure to knock your bookish fancy off its axis. I've forgotten what book I was actually looking for when I spotted The Novel Cure by Ella Bethoud and Susan Elderkin, but like kids running towards the Ice Cream Truck, I could not take my eyes off it. It is, quite simply, the definitive bibliophile's dream. It's bound simplistically with a lovely (and rather sturdy) book jacket, it's a solid weight with a satisfying number of pages, and even though it's a whopping $26.95 (This is the reason I go to the Strand so often...my poor wallet) (Another reason I shouldn't wander through a bookstore aimlessly), I rushed to B&N during my lunch hour to grab up this little treasure.

Have you ever felt a kinship with a character who just happens to be going through the same things as you? Felt the uncanny pleasure that comes with discovering that a writer has somehow tapped into your life for a mere moment? Imagine a dictionary filled with every emotion you could experience (Anxiety, Broken Heart, Dizziness, or Fear of Flying, for example,) and instead of finding useless suggestions, you could discover a novel that may put your 'ailment' in perspective. That is the aim of The Novel Cure. I had such fun discovering which novels were paired with which 'ailments': Carelessness = The Little Prince by Antoine De Saint-Exupery (e.g. my brain in written form), Breaking Up = High Fidelity by Nick Hornby, or Broken Heart = (my favorite) Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte. Along with fabulous suggestions for numerous ailments, they've also included Top Ten Lists for every age group,  Sitting in the Bathroom, Flying on a Plane and more. Approaching my thirties means taking on a ten year project of reading the books on their 30 Somethings list. But I might as well not get ahead of myself and finish my twenties off with a bang. I have one more full year of twenty, after all.

The only bone I have to pick with these beautiful women are that for some novel suggestions they explain a little too much, spoiling major plot lines for said books (*coughs, Jane Eyre*). But if you're like me, especially for some classics, it won't matter so much that the plot has been exposed, as the experience is worth taking a gander on regardless. This book has placed a ton of novels on my radar (as if I needed any help) that I would never have encountered, like Oroonoko by Aphra Behn, written in 1688 under the entry, Bitterness, about a couple who must endure overwhelming odds, but who manage often frightening circumstances with hope and courage. Who doesn't need a lesson in gratefulness these days, when the mere thought of my Venti Caramel Brulee Latte being prepared wrong could have me spiraling into post Quarter Life Crisis?

I can't imagine holding a better bookish book in my hands, and if I could, I would send it straight to you.

Hugs and Love,

"I believe in happy endings with all heart." Book Review | SilverLinings Playbook by Matthew Quick

An enchanting first novel about love, madness, and Kenny G. The Silver Linings Playbook is the riotous and poignant story of how one man regains his memory and comes to terms with the magnitude of his wife’s betrayal. During the years he spends in a neural  health facility, Pat Peoples formulates a theory about silver linings: he believes his life is a movie produced by God, his mission is to become physically fit and emotionally supportive, and his happy ending will be the return of his estranged wife, Nikki. When Pat goes to live with his parents, everything seems changed: no one will talk to him about Nikki; his old friends are saddled with families; the Philadelphia Eagles keep losing, making his father moody; and his new therapist seems to be recommending adultery as a form of therapy. When Pat meets the tragically widowed and clinically depressed Tiffany, she offers to act as a liaison between him and his wife, if only he will give up watching football, agree to perform in this year’s Dance Away Depression competition, and promise not to tell anyone about their “contract.” All the while, Pat keeps searching for his silver lining. In this brilliantly written debut novel, Matthew Quick takes us inside Pat’s mind, deftly showing us the world from his distorted yet endearing perspective. The result is a touching and funny story that helps us look at both depression and love in a wonderfully refreshing way.

-Amazon 

Dear Blue,

I hope this letter finds you most ecstatically happy!

You know those people in your circle who maintain an almost ridiculous sense of optimism? A kind that almost makes you cringe, but once you’re alone, you almost admire them for their bravery when it all looks to be a waste? That, my friend, is who you’ll meet in Pat, the guy Matthew Quick wraps and packages for you in Silver Linings Playbook.

In the novel, Pat’s come home from a mental health facility, with one mission: to win his wife, Nikki, back by a series of exercises, book lists, and good deeds. He has such a childlike assurance that there is a set time where seeming bad luck fades away, leaving only the precious silver lining. Matthew Quick paints a true to life scenario of what it must feel like to live with bipolar disorder on a daily basis, which I found really touching. How brave is it to deal with a life that triggers uncontrollable outbursts, but continue to try with all of your might to be the best you can be? That’s what I call pulling yourself up by your bootstraps (truthfully, I get this turn of phrase, but it’s also a little ridiculous…). I found Pat’s interactions with his disconnected father, overbearing yet lovable mother, spirited brother, supportive psychiatrist (Cliff is one of my favorite characters in the novel), and newfound question mark, Tiffany, to be one of a kind. Matthew Quick executes clever wit and insight in a way that will most definitely charm, and make your heart ache a little. Almost every interaction is striking, or painfully awkward in the most beautiful and unique way, I couldn't help but give him credit because oftentimes reality is 'Did I really just say that?' painful.

I watched the film before I ever knew it was an adaptation, and I approached the novel looking forward to experiencing how Matthew Quick paints the relationship between Pat and Tiffany. It was a brilliant hot mess in the film! What I discovered, however, was something very different from the film. Tiffany is still very bold, but infinitely more solemn a great deal of the novel. In fact there are huge chunks of silence in the book that really surprised me. I wanted into Tiffany's head more than we actually delve in, however, I came to realize near the end of the novel how much Pat and Nikki truly need each other. You will come to view bowls of Raisin Bran, dance competitions, and cloud formations in a different light, I'll tell you that.

That being said, you might not like this novel if you aren’t a crazed football fan. These characters chant for the Eagles more than a child for sweets. In fact, whilst reading the book, I found myself in an Inception-esque scene, when Pat, his father, and brother are going wild for the Eagles, and my father is doing the exact same thing in our living room (*looks both ways, and whispers: Run!*). I did feel the need to skim a lot of these scenes because it became a bit repetitive.

Bare in mind that this novel contains profanity, and adult content/scenarios.

Silver Linings Playbook is one I think every outsider should read…and that’s literally everyone who’s ever lived. If you ignore the football (unless you love it), and dismiss the moments where you find Pat out of his mind with childlike faith, you may come to find that by the end your own faith is growing as well. We all need good old fashioned faith, and in order to keep on living, it might as well be ridiculous.

                  

Let’s have 4 cups of tea and chat about it!

Love, Britta

P.S.- If you're wondering who on earth Blue is, click here for an introduction to my renewed way of writing reviews, and thanks so much for reading.

"Never ask for what ought to be offered." Book Review | Winter's Bone by Daniel Woodrell

Ree Dolly's father has skipped bail on charges that he ran a crystal meth lab, and the Dollys will lose their house if he doesn't show up for his next court date. With two young brothers depending on her, 16-year-old Ree knows she has to bring her father back, dead or alive. Living in the harsh poverty of the Ozarks, Ree learns quickly that asking questions of the rough Dolly clan can be a fatal mistake. But, as an unsettling revelation lurks, Ree discovers unforeseen depths in herself and in a family network that protects its own at any cost. -Amazon

Winter's Bone by Daniel Woodrell is a complete departure from novels that would normally draw me in, but, I made it my business to deliberately gain a new perspective this year. I think I've discovered a new favorite writer.

In this mysterious Southern Noir, Daniel Woodrell tells the story of a seventeen year old girl named Ree Dolly, who is tasked with the great challenge of finding her father before his court date, or else she, her mentally challenged mother, and two brothers will lose their home in the wild and rocky Ozarks. Winter's Bone will not coddle you with heartwarming sentiments, and promises of unity, no; but it will dig deep into you, revealing a protagonist with more heart and spirit than has been seen for a long while. Daniel Woodrell's protrayal of Ree Dolly is inspired with her unwavering strength and determination to take care of her family against her distant relatives who would seem to rather see them homeless in blistery winter, than break their stubborn pride and unspoken rules.

This is definitely a difficult story to read, and I admit that if it weren't for Daniel Woodrell's beautiful writing, and ability to create heartfelt layers with subtlety, I may have put the book down. But Ree Dolly's journey amazed me, showing a true example of what one can achieve when put in position to have to stand. The abuse she endures at the hands of her own family, both distant and close, could have broken anyone, let alone a teenaged girl with ambitious hopes to join the army and travel the world. Tender moments with Ree teaching her brothers to cook, hunt, and take care of themselves, further twisted my heart for their situation. I loved the dynamic between Ree and her Uncle Teardrop. Teardrop is such a layered and intriguing character who is often forceful, but seems motivated by his desire to protect Ree and his family. I see the same conflict within many characters in the novel, somehow ensnared by their desire to keep the unspoken rules of their family sacred, and yet remain humane to those around them.

What really caught me off guard was Daniel Woodrell's writing. Now that I think about it, I'm not sure what I was expecting, but not the lyrical, picturesque poetry that captured perfectly the beautiful, untamed, and often treacherous landscape (and people) of the Ozarks. I loved that the family Woodrell portrays carries historical ties to the land, and has their own mythology about their beginnings. In the past, I haven't taken very well to dialect, but Woodrell captures a wonderfully melodic voice that does not distract, but further enhances the world of Winter's Bone. I'm not sure why Daniel Woodrell does not garner more acclaim and popularity than he does. He's fantastic.

Bare in mind: Winter's Bone contains profanity, violence, sensuality, and disturbing scenarios.

Whether you're a Southern Gothic Lit fan, or looking to read a thrilling, and complex story that will grab hold of your heart, I can't recommend Winter's Bone more.  It's like a writers dream.

 

I give Winter's Bone by Daniel Woodrell five out of five cups of Irish Breakfast.

P.S- Don't forget to enter my giveaway for JUST ONE YEAR by Gayle Forman! I can't believe in a few short weeks, I'll have a copy in my hands!

A Word on the Film Adaptation

Initially, watching the film led me to the book, as I found myself transfixed by it's beautiful cinematography, and scenic views (blame tumblr for my newfound love of the great outdoors). As with most film adaptations, certain elements are changed, but not enough to change the actual story. Jennifer Lawrence is absolutely brilliant as Ree Dolly, capturing her strength and determination. I have heard around that the film changed her siblings to a brother and sister after having found two children who lived where they filmed. This was a beautiful choice. It seems as if the kids aren't even acting, but living their lives. They were adorable.

The movie is a bit of a bummer to watch with the subject matter and all, but I recommend it. That being said, I do feel like the book lends a more personal experience, but I'm guessing this is the case with all books.

                   

I give the film adaptation 4 out of 5 cups of Irish Breakfast.

Sugarcube Review | Hopeless by Colleen Hoover

Would you rather know a truth that makes you feel hopeless, or keep believing the lies? Beloved and bestselling author Colleen Hoover returns with the spellbinding story of two young people with devastating pasts who embark on a passionate, intriguing journey to discover the lessons of life, love, trust—and above all, the healing power that only truth can bring. Sky, a senior in high school, meets Dean Holder, a guy with a promiscuous reputation that rivals her own. From their very first encounter, he terrifies and captivates her. Something about him sparks memories of her deeply troubled past, a time she’s tried so hard to bury. Though Sky is determined to stay far away from him, his unwavering pursuit and enigmatic smile break down her defenses and the intensity of the bond between them grows. But the mysterious Holder has been keeping secrets of his own, and once they are revealed, Sky is changed forever and her ability to trust may be a casualty of the truth. Only by courageously facing the stark revelations can Sky and Holder hope to heal their emotional scars and find a way to live and love without boundaries. Hopeless is a novel that will leave you breathless, entranced, and remembering your own first love.-Amazon

The only thing you really need to know about Hopeless by Colleen Hoover, is that it will snatch out your heart, and leave you with that gutted feeling for days afterward.

Hopeless is about a a girl named Sky who's life is uprooted by the presence of, Dean Holder, a guy who causes unsettling memories of a past long forgotten to rise to the surface. Hopeless contains everything you would want in a romantic YA/NA novel: an outsider protagonist, and a love interest with a questionable past that both draws you in, and makes you wonder for the safety of the protagonist. But Colleen Hoover weaves a story with a hidden depth that will blow you away as you peel back its layers. Hoover tackles a disturbing topic with such sincerity and power that it's impossible not to take it with you. I especially loved that even as I thought I had pegged Sky and Dean's situation, it is startlingly far from what I thought. Sky and Dean are two beautiful characters who endure what young people should never have to endure. Their romance is pulsing, and grows more realistic as the novel progresses.

Bare in mind: Hopeless contains profanity, sexual content, and disturbing scenarios of abuse.

             

I give Hopeless by Colleen Hoover 4 out of 5 cups of Irish Breakfast.

Book Review + Film | The Spectacular Now by Tim Tharp

This National Book Award Finalist is now a major motion picture -- one of the most buzzed-about films at Sundance 2013, starring Shailene Woodley and Miles Teller. SUTTER KEELY. HE’S the guy you want at your party. He’ll get everyone dancing. He’ ll get everyone in your parents’ pool. Okay, so he’s not exactly a shining academic star. He has no plans for college and will probably end up folding men’s shirts for a living. But there are plenty of ladies in town, and with the help of Dean Martin and Seagram’s V.O., life’s pretty fabuloso, actually. Until the morning he wakes up on a random front lawn, and he meets Aimee. Aimee’s clueless. Aimee is a social disaster. Aimee needs help, and it’s up to the Sutterman to show Aimee a splendiferous time and then let her go forth and prosper. But Aimee’s not like other girls, and before long he’s in way over his head. For the first time in his life, he has the power to make a difference in someone else’s life—or ruin it forever.
-Amazon

Thoroughly jazzed by its title, The Spectacular Now promised to be a good, old fashioned coming of age novel about a guy trying to find his way, all the while helping a girl discover her own way. I came away from this feeling a little mixed about it.

Tim Tharp has woven an effervescent character with Sutter (I love his name!). His POV is hilarious, clever and at odd times, insightful. From the first page his voice is clear and strong like a wind blowing right into your face during the Fall. Cue Aimee (In love with this spelling), the young woman who has charmed her way into his life with her kindness and selfless disposition. I enjoyed observing Aimee and Sutter together, watching as she opens his mind with her highly ambitious dreams. She carries a hope that infiltrates Sutter's clever wit, and often cynical view towards the people around him.

Sutter's journey is, at it's core, heartbreaking as he masks his feelings of being unwanted with long, intense bouts with alcohol, and gilded optimism that more often keeps him complacent rather than steadily moving forward into the future. Aimee's backstory cracked my heart all the more as I wondered how many young women have had their spirits broken by neglectful abuse.

Tim Tharp is an excellent writer, crafting authentic characters, each layered with strong personalities of their own. His writing does not condescend to his audience as, unfortunately, some other YA novels tend to do, and I think that's what makes The Spectacular Now a bit of a timeless novel. It felt like many coming of age movies released in the 80s, or even a rated-R version of Boy Meets World (Who doesn't love this show?). But I found myself a bit disappointed with the novel. I kept waiting for a subtle moral to come blazing through by the end. Perhaps this is the beauty of Tharp's novel, that it shows Sutter's journey gone wrong and leaves it to you to make meaning for yourself. Maybe it truly is just a novel about a year in the life of Sutter Keely. If so, I give Tim Tharp loads of props, but I wished it were a bit more hopeful. The closing scene, particularly, left me unsettled.

I also held a pet peeve with the amount of times Christianity is mocked in this novel, and wished that these additions were lessened a little.

Bare in Mind: The Spectacular Now contains profanity (tons of it), cynical commentary towards religion, and copious amounts of alcohol.

The Spectacular Now by Tim Tharp has a lot of heart, and even loads of underline-able passages to ponder on, but I wanted a little more out of it. That being said, I don't discourage you from picking it up. I'm sure the name alone draws you...I see you trying to figure out how you'll buy it :-).

                                   

I give The Spectacular Now by Tim Tharp 3 out of 5 cups of something that won't put a little hair on your chest.

Film Review

I was actually turned on to the book after having watched The Spectacular Now Trailer. Once I find out a film is a novel adaptation, I usually try, or at least endeavor, to read the novel first, and this was one of those projects. But this will be the only time I'll ever say that I found the film to be better than the novel!

Miles Teller basically became Sutter Keely. I couldn't picture a better actor for the role. I couldn't keep my eyes off of him, and what oddball line he'd come up with next. He also captured Sutter's soft center that hardly ever shows itself. Aimee, played by the lovely Shailene Woodley, was the first thing I've watched of hers since discovering that she is playing, pretty much, every influential YA character in the last few years (Tris in Divergent, and Hazel Grace in The Fault In Our Stars). Being in love with The Fault In Our Stars, my skepticism, though unwarranted rose, as Hazel is pretty close to most of our hearts. But I was, and wasn't surprised. Shailene was spot on with her portrayal of Aimee, and unlike a lot of young actors now a days, she shows a real future in witty, smart, awesome movies.

I think everyone should go see it. It's filled with all of the wonderful moments of high school, without any of them feeling cliche. It also offers tons more hope than the novel does, unfortunately.

Bare in Mind: The Spectacular Now contains profanity, drug use, alcohol use, sexual content, and slight violence.

                 

I give The Spectacular Now by Tim Tharp 4 and a 1/2 out of 5 cups of something else that won't put hair on your chest.

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Book Review | Ink (The Paper Gods #1) by Amanda Sun

Ink is in their blood. On the heels of a family tragedy, Katie Greene must move halfway across the world. Stuck with her aunt in Shizuoka, Japan, Katie feels lost. Alone. She doesn't know the language, she can barely hold a pair of chopsticks and she can't seem to get the hang of taking her shoes off whenever she enters a building. When Katie meets aloof but gorgeous Tomohiro, the star of the school's kendo team, she is intrigued by him…and a little scared. His tough attitude seems meant to keep her at a distance, and when they're near each other, strange things happen. Pens explode. Ink drips from nowhere. And unless Katie is seeing things, drawings come to life. Somehow Tomo is connected to the kami, powerful ancient beings who once ruled Japan—and as feelings develop between Katie and Tomo, things begin to spiral out of control. The wrong people are starting to ask questions, and if they discover the truth, no one will be safe.
-Amazon

Before I started Ink by Amanda Sun, I had hit a pretty rough book slump. Ink revitalized the beautiful feeling of what reading a great book is all about: new discoveries, and falling into a new world that made me a little sad to leave once finished. Also, look at the gorgeous cover. I had no idea I was going to purchase this book, and then I turned, and this cover drew me towards it like kids to an ice cream parlour. 

Ink is about a sixteen year old girl named Katie who, after her mother's death, is forced to move to Japan with her Aunt Diane. While in Japan, Katie finds herself faced with the challenge of assimilating into the pulsing Japanese culture, as well as in the midst of a supernatural mythology come to life. Cue the enigmatic Tomohiro who's aloof and seeming cocky attitude piques Katie's curiosity after she experiences his drawings come to life right on the page. She learns that Tomohiro is connected to the kami, the very powerful ancient rulers of Japan, and that somehow the ink that Tomohiro has a hard time controlling is further impacted by her presence.

On the surface, Ink is your classic supernatural romance. It has your outsider, your mysterious heartthrob, and the inexplicable pull that ties them both together. But what makes Ink an entirely new reading experience is Amanda Sun's resonating portrayal of Japan. Sun infuses vibrant descriptions of young life in Japan with its language, strong sense of history and folklore pervading every detail. These additions can turn a seeming cliched idea into something fresh. I loved that with no introduction, Sun throws Katie into the heart of Japan. We're immediately faced with how different life is for Katie as she encounters the language and customs that come with being a Japanese student. I also loved Katie's interactions with her new friends Tanaka and Yuki who show her the ropes and become a sort of family to her. Katie's relationship with her Aunt Diane is also touching as we observe their growing friendship in the midst of a traumatic situation.

Katie and Tomohiro's relationship is beautiful and layered. They fuse together as outsiders, and are forced to toddle through their shared connection to the Kami and the challenge this poses. Through them, we also experience quite beautiful scenes where Tomohiro's drawings come to life in front of them...glittering and sinister. I love how Sun weaves a thrilling premise in regards to the forces who would like to wield Tomo's power, some for good, others...not so much.

Ink is full of beautiful illustrations by various artists that help to pull you into the beautiful world of Japanese art/calligraphy and folklore. If you flip through the novel, eying the bottom right margins, there are also cool flip animations that I thought were clever additions to the novel. I've also heard that if you purchase the ebook, certain portions of the novel are, in fact, animated? If so, that's just awesome!

Bare in mind: Ink contains profanity, violence, and some sensuality.

Ink allowed me to experience Japan in unexpected ways. By the end, I felt I'd traversed Sunpu Park, observed Tomo's drawings outside of ancient temples, memorized Kanji, took train rides past Hiroshima, and enjoyed time spent with friends over bentous full of amazing food. I read a quote on GoodReads that a good book can make you homesick for a place that you've never been, and Ink is that book. Though I wished more questions were answered, I know that this promises a thrilling ride with the next book due out in 2014!

If you're as 'homesick' for the world of Ink as I am, or you'd like a taste of Katie and Tomohiro's life just before she arrives in Japan, read Amanda Sun's wonderful prequel, Shadow on Kindle/Wattpad for FREE for a limited time!!!

 

I give Ink by Amanda Sun five out of five cups of Milk Tea.

{P.S. This novel helped me to make the decision that's been circling around my life for a while...I'm learning Japanese!}

Lit Rants | Overcoming the Default: Why More Multicultural Lit Needs Showcasing.

Over the past year I noticed two occurrences where authors were questioned or applauded on their decision to make main characters multicultural. Zoraida Cordova was thanked by one of her fans for making the love interest in her series The Vicious Deep, half Ecuadorian, half Greek, and she also discusses what it is to be an Ecuadorian woman writing fantasy in her guest post for Diversity in YA. While Rainbow Rowell, author of what could be the most loved young adult novel in 2013, Eleanor and Park, addressed a question that some wondered regarding why Park is Korean, to which she delivers the best answer: "Because Park is Korean." I don't believe that these questions are even asked in a malicious way, but they are a clue that we see so little Multi-Cultured characters in our novels that it makes us wonder what made the author deviate from the norm. Then there are occurrences where showcasing characters as a different ethnicity meets challenge, e.g. the unbelievable controversy over young Rue in The Hunger Games being cast as a young black girl, when Suzanne Collins herself describes her as having dark brown skin. I admit that whilst reading The Hunger Games before the film, I wasn't even paying attention to many of the different descriptions of characters because it's ingrained in my mind that most will be Caucasian. Upon discovering Amandla Steinberg was cast, I thought she was the most adorable girl! But seeing the challenges this met with, plus rediscovering that the character was painted as having a different ethnic background, it made me question what exactly the problem is.

We don't, hopefully, go around asking our friends or associates, "Hey, why are you black, or Irish, or Puerto Rican...." so why should our literature only boast one race or cultural background? The peeve that I have with any form of questioning like this is the media's saturation of one look, one culture, or one place being the default. If the world comes in a variety of 'settings' why accept one default as normal? It shouldn't have to mean that an author is being 'gimmicky' by adding a character of a different race or background into their story. They are merely presenting the world that we live in. Every one is not white, blond, or blue/brown eyed, or comes from the Western World. We all range from the palest of creams, to the deepest of chocolate browns, and they all should be showcased in fiction, especially Young Adult.

While reading Ink by Amanda Sun, I realized that part of my overwhelmingly refreshed response to it was due to the fact that the setting is Japan, and the main love interest and most supporting characters are Japanese. Traditional tropes in any genre can become cliched if the same molds are used, but when intertwined in different cultures, countries, or ethnicities, can become startlingly fresh. 

As an African American writer, I wonder why some in the world think it strange for me, or any one who isn't Caucasian, to write fantasy, or off the beating path. My question is, why not? I am a black woman who's always loved reading fantastical tales, but have found it lacking in diversity. It can be so alienating to read books where no one looks like you, or has similar experiences to yours, and can often exacerbate stereotypes that may exist for some cultures and ethnicities. I remember being so excited whilst reading The Perfect Chemistry series by Simone Elkeles, to read about Hispanic main characters tackling stereotypes around them, and the similarities that, at the end of the day, bring us all together.

Why can't there be African American/Caribbean fairies, or Hispanic vampires, or Bi-Racial Hogwarts students? Why can't we discover what its like to be an Aboriginal Australian girl/guy in a YA adventure, or have an Icelandic heroine, or an old fashioned treasure hunt in Africa with a Nigerian protagonist? A Taiwanese prince? Who lives in Greenland...what happens there? As much as we adore Britain (my own novel is set in London), or Paris and Italy, I also want to discover something new.  Showcasing more novels where these differences are celebrated can make a world of difference in the minds of readers everywhere. It will give the world something new to discover about the people around them.

Happy TWO Year Anniversary! + JUST ONE YEAR GIVEAWAY

Two glorious years spent celebrating my love of books with all of you wonderful readers! It still feels like I've only decided to jump into book blogging mere weeks ago.

This year seemed a learning experience in time management. Having a full time job, writing a novel, and having various other things pop up on a daily basis made blogging at the volume that I wanted to a bit of a challenge. I also feel like I've been in a bit of a book slump this year. I've been buying books like crazy, but haven't been as moved by some of them as I thought I would. When I'm not over the moon for a book, I find it a bit challenging to review them.

Even with these challenges, I've still had a good experience. This year, bestselling author of The Rules of Civility, Amor Towles, gifted me his fabulous novella, Eve In Hollywood. I've watched one of my favorite YA/NA authors, Rebecca Donovan make a splash in the literary world, and have her dreams come true; inspiration to any fellow writer. I've discovered that I can finish a classic, and actually love it!

Here are a few things I'd like to tackle this year on Novel Days:

• Review Books That Didn't Wow Me: Going back over my posts, I realize that I have loads of reviews for books for 4 cups or more. I can see how this would make me seem more like someone who would rather rate a book glimmeringly, than jump out there with the truth. This year, I'd like to post more novels that perhaps didn't affect me as much.
• Book Events: Living in New York City, there are a plethora of events on any given week to get into. I recently went to one called Recovering The Classics at Housing Works Bookshot (which I will blog about soon) that I had loads of fun attending. I would love to haunt Barnes &Noble' on days my favorite authors will be there, and track them down online so that I can bring you guys the best of all things bookish going on in the city. BEA is the top on my list this year. I HAVE to get into that in 2014, Godwilling.
• Eccentric Bookish Posts: I've been so privileged to have a host of blogging styles and ideas to be inspired by. I love when a blogger can deviate a bit from review and top ten posts to come up with something unique, and this year, I would like to spend some time brainstorming creative posts about books that will make Novel Days feel more alive.
• Book Peeps: I listed this one for my last anniversary, but it still stands, I have too few book blogger friends, and I would LOVE to make more. I love the sense of community that Book Blogging brings, and I want to be a part of it. Nothing warmed my heart more than to see some of my favorite bloggers tweeting about their meet ups. I wish it were possible to host a NY meet up, but that seems a bit of a daunting endeavor.

I really wanted to thank all of you who stuck with me on my journey through Novel Days. I really appreciate you. I love knowing that you enjoy my posts, and hope to write things that you will enjoy in the future! Because I love you so much, I wanted to host an ANNIVERSARY GIVEAWAY.

Last year, I fell in love with Gayle Forman's JUST ONE DAY, and with it being one of my highly anticipated books for Fall, I wanted to giveaway JUST ONE YEAR, so that we can all swoon about Willem together! One of you will win your choice of formats (Kindle/Hardcover)

RULES

OPEN INTERNATIONALLY

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You have until October 1st, 2013 to get all of your entries in, as this novel releases on October 15th!

After spending an amazing day and night together in Paris, Just One Year is Willem's story, picking up where Just One Day ended. His story of their year of quiet longing and near misses is a perfect counterpoint to Allyson's own as Willem undergoes a transformative journey, questioning his path, finding love, and ultimately, redefining himself. 

-Goodreads

ENJOY!