Steelheart

* * * * */ Five Stars

Genre: Fantasy, Futuristic, Intellect, Humor (some of it dry), Romance, Danger, Drama, Action, Adventure

Brandon Sanderson has outdone himself in Steelheart, the first book in the Reckoners series. It is about a teenager named David, who has had his share of problems with the 'Epics'. Epics were created when an explosion in the sky called the 'Calamity' blessed the people it touched with extraordinary powers. That was a while ago. An Epic called Steelheart had killed his father when he shot someone trying to kill Steelheart. His bullet scratched the side of Steelheart's cheek, and it made a scar. He killed the poor, innocent man because of it. David has spent his life trying to find out all of the secrets of the Epics ever since; he wants to someday join the 'Reckoners', a secret group of regular people also trying to find out how to strike the Epics down by learning about them. When David walks in on one of their attempts to take down an Epic, things change unexpectedly. He gets invited to join the team since he knew their hide-outs and understood their patterns. Now David has plans to get revenge on the Epic that killed his father. What will happen to David and the rest of the Reckoners? What is Steelheart planning? And what would happen if Davis lost his humanity in this twisting plan to even the score?
In this fast-passed novel, nothing is as it seems. If you are prepared to travel the unknown, sob inside, and get lost in the twists and turns of this riveting plot, then this is the novel of your dreams.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving! It has been a very eventful 3 months for me since I started my blog. And, yes, if it wasn't clear before this blog was only started 3 months ago. Crazy, right? Well, in the spirit of the holiday, I just had to post this:

Enjoy this funny Charlie Brown special. I know I loved this!

The Outsiders

* * * */ Four Stars

Genre: Action, Adventure, Intellectual, Drama, Danger, Suspense, Humor (very little, though . . .)

Ponyboy (and yes, that's the name his parents gave him) is an orphan. His brothers Darry and Sodapop are, too. All three of them are 'greasers', the name of the gang they are in and live to. There are two rules to a greaser's life; stick together, and don't get caught. Ponyboy is the youngest of the three (and of the 'gang') and therefore him and his friend Johnny get beaten up a lot by their rival gang, the Socs. They are the 'hoods' of the two and the Socs are the snobby, rich jerks that hit them where it hurts. Ponyboy's life isn't easy. He fights with his oldest brother (Darry), he gets beaten up (a lot), and he's 'smart' but doing poorly in school. If the trio get in trouble, they might be separated and put in home. When Ponyboy, Two-Bit (another friend/gang member), and Johnny meet Cherry and Maria, some Soc girls, their perspectives are turned a little. What makes the two gangs different, if they all share the same town and have the same problems? The same night, Ponyboy and Johnny get jumped by some Soc boys for hanging out with their girls. They try to drown Ponyboy, but Johnny intervenes. Now, on the run from the law and with seemingly nobody who still truly accepts them, the duo stow away. What will happen to these two 'outsiders'?
I really loved this book by S. E. Hinton. It is truly inspiring and makes you think more about the inspiring world around you and the way our society works.

Gregor the Overlander

* * * */ Four Stars

Genre: Action, Adventure, Loss, Drama, Danger, Humor, Mystery, Suspense

Gregor's sister falls down the laundry chute. So, naturally, he does what any good older brother would; he ends up going in after her. At the bottom of the chute, the two find a hidden city; one filled with princes and princesses, giant bugs, priceless trinkets, and talking rats. He and his sister are welcomed into the city, for it is very rare that someone coming down the chutes will actually live to tell the tale. The last one was his dad, who happened to disappear years ago. Now they know he fell into the world of the 'underlanders'. As the two grow more and more anxious to find out what happened to their father in this world, they discover he is a prisoner to an evil rodent deep within the heart of this world. Will the two lowly 'overlanders' be able to fins their father and fulfill the ancient prophecy of that of this world?
I really liked this book by Suzanne Collins. It really opens up your eyes to the amazing, whimsical world around us and is destined to be a classic.

Flipped

* * * */ Four Stars

Genre: Romance, Adventure, Action, Humor, Drama, Intellect

The first time Julie saw Bryce, that was it. She was head over heals. The first time Bryce met Julie, he ran behind his mother's skirts and hoped he would never see her again. He was wrong. He was stuck in every class with her in every grade. It's now middle school, and Julie is still hung up over Bryce, who has been desperately trying to avoid her all these years. This year, though, things are different. All the things that Julie had done over the years, like hatching chickens for the science fair and protesting the chopping of a huge tree, are finally catching up with him, and he suddenly feels differently about her. On the other side of the road is Julie. After all her years of chasing after Bryce, she is starting to realize that Bryce has never done anything with her or for her. He hasn't ever joined her in a game of ball or even stopped to say hello when he saw her outside. Julie is beginning to really look at Bryce . . . and he doesn't seem nearly as much of the selfless, amazing person she thought he was when they were little. Is Bryce falling in love with Julie? And, if so, what will happen if she gives up on him before he does?
I really like this book by Wendelin Van Draanen. It is one that is destined to be a classic, and is for the people who want to curl up in bed, read some 'mush', and sit there until the feelings have long passed.

The Red Pyramid :Book Trailer

Here is the book trailer for the Kane Chronicles book 1, The Red Pyramid. If you haven't read it, please do so! Go to your library and pick up this awesome book.

Life As We Knew It

* * * */ Four Stars

Genre: Action, Adventure, (mild) Humor, (some) Romance, Danger, Drama, Futuristic, Suspense

The world is in chaos. Or, at least Miranda's. It started with the moon getting hit by a meteor. Then the tides began rising, the stores went out of business, and the electricity went out. Now Miranda and her family are trapped in their own house while the people around them slowly starve, move, or kill themselves because they fear they won't make it otherwise. Miranda and her family have 'survived' since they were prepared for the tough, harsh times ahead of them. Miranda is worried, though. As the years pass and the seasons turn, Miranda is afraid that she and the rest of her family may not survive this. Will they all make it out alive together, or will the family be lost like the rest of the world?
This book by Susan Beth Pfeffer is truly inspiring. I loved it, and I know that anyone else looking for a new favorite will, too.

No. Just, no.

Okay, so I know that this is a blog about books (and other pieces of writing). But, frankly, I just had to share this other blog with my blogger fans:

http://www.mandatory.com/2014/03/28/the-best-worst-jokes-from-pun-husky/

Take a look at this page. You will be laughing your socks off- I swear! Here's one of the corny jokes on there . . . and if you like it, there's more where that came from!!!

A Winter Poem

This is a poem by Nikki Giovanni. It is about the magic of winter and the first signs of it. Check it out:

Winter Poem

by Nikki Giovanni

once a snowflake fell

on my brow and i loved

it so much and i kissed

it and it was happy and called it cousins

and brothers and a web

of snow engulfed me then

i reached to love them all

and i squeezed them and they became

a spring rain and i stood perfectly

still and was a flower

Savvy

* * * */ Four Stars

Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama, Suspense, Mystery, Humor, Romance (kinda-sort 'first crush')

Mibs is turning thirteen. But, her family has a secret about that. Whenever someone in their family turns thirteen, they gain a magical power; their savvy. Her brother, Fish, for example, can channel water into storms when he gets mad (which is why the family lives far inland). Her other brother can knock off electricity. Her mother has the amazing power of 'luck', and can do anything perfectly (but only if she wants to). As Mibs celebrates her birthday, she slumps to the floor and passes out. She is also worried about her father, who got landed in the hospital. Soon Mibs, her brothers, and the priest's children stow away on a wild adventure to get to her father. Will they make it in time?
I really liked this zany, wild novel by Ingrid Law. It was very fun and lighthearted, and if you're looking for a book to put some bounce in your step, this is it.

Maximum Ride: The Angel Experiment

* * * */ Four Stars

Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Drama, Suspense, Mystery, Danger

Welcome to the world of the 'angels', or human kids/teens whom's DNA has been mixed with that of birds'. They where hiding away from the scientists who 'created' them when they somehow found their secret hideout and kidnapped the youngest of the gang- little Angel (ironic name, right?). The group rush to her rescue while she is tortured and examined by the scientists as hostage. As their 'powers' grow and Angel sinks deeper and deeper, the scientists start to search for the rest of the gang. The group of mutants will soon encounter; a winged dog, an amazing toy store, a really comfortable tree, undiscovered abilities, delicious chocolate-chip cookies, and a startling truth and tantalizing set of secrets that will change their lives forever.
I really enjoyed this inventive book by James Patterson. It was silly and fun yet at the same time crafted to be serious and depth-defying. I think that everyone who wants a page-turning novel that rests on the brink of reality will love it.

Other Blogs . . .

I am weird. And, more importantly so, I am proud of it (in a dorky sort-of way). It's lead to me starting my own blog that hundreds of people see every day (so let's assume it's benefiting me). Also, this post is about other weird people with other strange blogs. So, if you like the Creative Corner, here are some other blogs you may enjoy . . .

I Love Pigs
welovespigs.blogspot.com

- An interesting blog about . . . pigs. And yes, I said pigs. This blog is dedicated to pigs; and more specifically, facts about them. For example, did you know that pigs prefer water to mud and are good swimmers? Or that after just two weeks they have committed their names to memory and will come when called? Anyways, if you like pigs, copy this blog address and go check out this site!


Peace, Love, Chipotle
peacelovechipotle.blogspot.com

- A blog that is just starting out about history, merchandise, and film fridays. And, of course, salsa. This blog is about Chipotle, America's favorite Mexican Grill (or so it says . . .). Anyways, if burritos, chips, and beans (and plenty of randomness) are up your alley, you'll love this blog. And speaking of food . . .


The Imagine Works
theimagineworks.blogspot.com

- Do you love recipes? Well, if you love trying out new ones, this is just the place for you! This is an awesome blog about recipes around the globe that is just getting started in the blogger community but is already a big hit. If you are looking for things like chocolate-dipped popcorn or pumpkin smoothies, this is the blog to turn to.

T.S.F.G.A.E. is being turned into a movie!

The School for Good and Evil; an amazing book as it is.
Imagine how it will be as a MOVIE!

This awesome and whimsical book will be turned into a movie sometime between fall of 2015 and spring/summer of 2016. Personally, I cannot wait to see it. This novel is a new personal favorite of mine, and although I just got around to posting about it, it is still one of the best written ones of any of the fantasies out there. Look at this book trailler:

(by the way, the book looks like this:)



(and the second book looks like this:)

The Thief Lord

* * * */ Four Stars (almost five . . . almost . . .)

Genre: Action, Adventure, Humor, Mystery, Suspense, Fantasy, Danger, Drama

Deep in the heart of Venice, two brothers have stolen away from their aunt and uncle who have tried to adopt them when their mother died. Alone and struggling to survive and keep hidden on their own, Prosper and his little brother Bo join a group of orphaned runaways led by a mysterious boy called the 'Thief Lord'. He helps them steal from the rich to get by. While they are in Italy, though, their aunt and uncle have sent a suspicious detective after the boys, which means that everyone else may be found out as well . . . The boys' adventures, winding up and down all of this majestic city, will include; a wild goose chase, a strange request, a magical merry-go-round, a shocking secret, and a chance at a new life. The only question left is; Who's up for an adventure?
I adored this book by Cornelia Funke! It is a modern take on the magic and enchantment of Venice. Anyone who dreams of far-off places will love this beautifully-crafted book.

Video Time!

This is a trailer for the first book I posted about, the Emerald Atlas! It is a wonderful book that everyone will enjoy (even though I don't really like this guy's voice . . .), and it is totally note-worthy. No, this is not a scary or creepy book; I have read only about 7 times, so I should know. READ IT!!!!!

(Sorry if this doesn't work, but this is my first time trying this . . .)

The School for Good and Evil

* * * * */ Five Stars

Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama, Danger, Mystery, Suspense, Humor, Fantasy, Romance (but only a little . . .)

In this enchanting novel by Soman Chainani, there are two girls that are sort-of 'best friends'. Agatha is a gloomy girl who lives in a huge and creepy house with a black cat, while Sophie is a beautiful young maiden with flowing blonde hair and flawless skin. Each year a man called 'the Storymaster'  comes to their world and takes two children; one that will become evil and one that will be good. He places them in two different schools; the school for good and the school for evil. Sophie is dying to be taken, even though every other child dreads it. She's tired of her life and wants to be pampered in the school for good. When the Storymaster comes for her, Agatha bravely fights him to keep her, not realizing that Sophie wished to go. When the reach the schools, though, something strange happens; Sophie is put in the school for evil, while Agatha is shoved into that of good. What happened? Why is it happening? And how can the two get home before this new world tears their friendship apart?
I love this amazing book. It is one that everyone should read and one that everyone will love.

Thirteen Treasures

* * */ Three Stars

Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama, Danger, Suspense, Fantasy (it has a couple of creepy parts, but I wouldn't stick it under horror . . .)

In this intriguing novel by Michele Harrison, Tanya is just a regular girl . . . with the supernatural ability to see fairies. She has learned to keep her gift hidden (because she has landed herself on many a doctor or therapist's desk for claiming to see them), but somehow she still managed to have a run-in involving her gift. She was sent to her grandmother's house, one that is absolutely teeming with fairies (who aren't exactly the kind, loving ones we all have heard of). In her grandmother''s library, she finds a beautiful silver bracelet with 13 little charms on it. After that point, strange things begin happening, and Tanya will soon encounter; a stranger in the house's garden, a greedy fairy, a startling truth, an old family friend, an unlikely friendship, a runaway, a 'crazy' old hag, and a secret about her family that will change her life forever.
I liked this book. It was a bit creepy in some places (which is why I downgraded it a star), but, to be honest, the storyline kind-of demanded that it must. It probably wouldn't have been a better book as a whole without those parts. Anyways, anybody who wants an awesome read with some chills up their spines will love this book.

City of Ember

* * * */ Four Stars

Genre: Action, Adventure, Danger, Drama, Suspense, Mystery, Futuristic, Humor (but it is very dry in some places . . .)

In this outstanding book by Jeanne DuPrau, the people generations ago, 'the builders', built a great city underground because they feared the world above may not make it. That city was called the City of Ember. They gave the first mayor of Ember a box that would open in 200 years. Inside it would rest the directions that would help people back up to the surface world again, when the world might stand a better chance. The box was successfully passed from mayor to mayor; that is, until the 7th mayor passed before his time. The box was then lost, but it slowly clicked open in silence . . . Lena is a descendant of the 7th mayor. When she, her grandmother, and her little sister Poppy find the box, they don't know what it means. When Lena and her new friend Doon decide to find out, they will encounter; a shocking truth, what's really happening in their store-rooms, a different tunnel, a key to a hidden bunker, a trail in the pipeworks, a way out of Ember, and a secret that will change their lives forever.
This book is one of my favorites (and I don't say that often . . .)! Everyone looking for their next favorite will love it, too!

The Island of the Aunts

* * * */ Four Stars

Genre: Fantasy, Action, Adventure, Drama, Humor, Suspense, Mystery

In this enchanting novel by Eva Ibbotson, a magical island exists in a hidden part of the sea that houses mystical creatures like mermaids and giant birds. It is taken care of by three old aunts, but they since they aren't getting any younger, they have decided to enlist people to help them in their tasks. And what better believers than children! The aunts travel away from their island and kidnap three children to help them take care of their beloved home and magical friends. What they didn't expect was everything that happened next . . .
This book of splendor and enchantment really captures your attention and draws you into the story itself. If you are looking for a book that will leave you wondering long after it's finished,  you will fall in love with this one!

The Giver

* * * * */ Five Stars

Genre: Action, Adventure, Loss, Danger, Mystery, Suspense, Identity, Drama

In this futuristic novel by Lois Lowry, Jonas is just like any other person in his 'perfect' society; a mindless, obedient follower who has never really argued about what is happening. In fact, everyone in his society probably has never had an original thought for themselves. Also, they don't have emotion, color, or anything that would make them 'different' from everyone else. On the day of his assignment (the day where every 12-year-old gets a job in their community), he is purposely skipped over until the end. He hasn't been assigned to a job like all the other 12's; he has been selected to preform the most important task of all, to become the next 'Receiver of Memories' (the one and only person in the society that holds all the memories of a world before the societies' 'sameness'). As the Giver (what the current 'Receiver of Memories' is called) gives away his memories of love and happiness, death and war to Jonas, he is starting to become curious. Why were the things like color and love taken away? What is the real meaning of 'release'? And, what if the society was wrong?
This book is an astounding classic. I LOVED it. If you are looking for a book to dig into, this book about what it means to be 'human' will surly fall farther into your soul than you realize.

The Unwanteds

* * * * */ Five Stars

Genre: Action, Adventure, Danger, Drama, Humor, (some; very little) Romance

In this astounding book by Lisa McMann, the magic-less society Alex lives in divides their youth that come of age into three groups; those who are wanted in their society, those who are 'necessary' in the society, and those who are unwanted. Alex is one of those unlucky teenagers that has been cast aside. He, along with all the other unwanteds, are supposed to be killed(or so everyone who sees this tragic event says). Instead, he and the other unwanteds on his bus do not meet their dooms, but instead they are welcomed into the magical world of Artime, where all the saved unwanteds that were sent away live in secret. The creative abilities of the unwanteds helps them use magic to enchant objects (or give them life), create weapons, and invent new spells and trinkets. Soon, though, the regular, wanted people of Quill find out that Artime exists, and a full-out war starts between the lands of cunning and strength and that of fantasy and courage. Will Alex and his new friends be able to save their home from Quill? Or will Artime, just like before, cease to exist?
This amazing book really opens your eyes to the world of splendor and enchantment around you. Anyone looking for a book that packs a punch will love this wondrous book!