A Christmas Carol

A Christmas Carol

By Charles Dickens

****

"God bless us all, every one."

Review

I thought, hey it's the holiday season, I should review a holiday book. A Christmas Carol is the only ghost story anyone could probably ever consider charming. You feel disgust at the horrible demeanor of Scrooge, and you love the joy of his nephew. You feel a chill in your bones as you meet each new spirit, and in the end you learn the classic lesson that money is not that important, and the spirit of Christmas is the most joyful thing of all. It's a classic story, and one you should relish this year when the weather gets cold and dreary.

Angels And Demons

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Angels And Demons

By Dan Brown

Mystery/Adventure and some historical elements

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****1/2

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"Religion is like language or dress. We gravitate toward the practices with which we were raised. In the end, though we are all proclaiming the same thing. That life has meaning. That we are grateful for that which created us."

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Teaser

An ancient secret brotherhood. A devestating new weapon of destruction. An unthinkable target. When world-renowned Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon is summoned to hsi first assignment to a Swiss research facility to analyze a mysterious symbol-seared into the chest of a murdered physist-he disovers evidence of the unimanginable: the resurgance of an ancient secret brotherhood known as the Illuminati...the most powerful underground orginization to ever walk the earth. The Illuminati has now surfaced to carry out its legendary vendetta against its most hated enemy-the Catholic Chruch...

Review

I loved this book. I really enjoyed the way they tied in tons of art history and Vatican history into the book. Also, lately I've been into mysteries, and this is definitely a good one. Angles and Demons is one of those books that keep you up late and you are constantly carrying around until you're finished. Dan Brown does a great job of weaving each character, description, and word into a massive twisted story of religion, art, history, love and so much more. I also really liked this book because it is never slow, and you wonder how this book could possibly hold so much action and excitement inside.

Book Slam: A Great and Terrible Beauty

A Great and Terrible Beauty

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by Libba Bray

Fantasy

*

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Teaser

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Gemma Doyle isn't like other girls. Girls with impeccable manners, who speak when spoken to, who remember their station, and who will lie back and think of England when it's required of them.

No, sixteen-year-old Gemma is an island unto herself, sent to the Spence Academy in London after tragedy strikes her family in India. Lonely, guilt-ridden, and prone to visions of the future that have an uncomfortable habit of coming true, Gemma finds a chilly reception. But she's not completely alone... she's been followed by a mysterious young man, who warns her to close her mind agaisnt the visions.

For it's at Spence that Gemma's power to attract the supernatural unfolds; there she becomes entangled with the school's most powerful girls and discover's her mother's connection to a shadowy group called the Order. It's there that her destiny waits... if only she can believe in it.

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Slam

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Upon first hearing about this book I thought it sounded like a fun, interesting read. But when I actually picked it up and started reading I found myself confused right off the bat. The twisted plot line is very hard to follow and nothing in the novel is very well explained. Descriptions were very vague and many of the characters tended to blend together due to their similarity. In short, there was nothing dynamic about this book at all. It had no real basis or point and the ending was very bland also. Normally I love books set in the Victorian age, but this one just didn't live up to my expectations and I wouldn't recommend it for anyone.

Wildwood Dancing

Wildwood Dancing

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by Juliet Marillier

Historical Fiction / Fantasy / Romance

*****

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"I've heard it said that girls can't keep secrets..."

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Teaser

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Five adventurous sisters...

Four dark creatures...

Three magical gifts...

Two forbidden lovers...

One enchanted frog...

Cross the threshold into the Wildwood, and enter a land of magic, daring, betrayal... and true love.

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Review

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It is said that you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, however this books cover work is the first thing that drew me to it. Kinoku Craft deserves much praise for this peice. As for the novel, I loved it just as much as the cover art. It had a wonderful story line and I often found myself unable to put it down. It had historical ties, but is mostly based off of legends. This provided for excellently developed and interesting characters as well as an intriguing plot line. I absolutely loved everything about this book. Its a must read for fans of fantasy writing or romance.

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Water Wings and The Protectors

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Water Wings Official Release Date: March 16, 2009.

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So now they are turning the rest of the Maximum Ride series into an entierly different series. The new series is called The Protectors, while the old series is called the Fugitives. The Final Warning and on, including the upcoming Water Wings(left), are all part of that series. To be honest I think the protectors is off to a horrible start, but hopefully James Patterson will be able to turn it around and make a good book. I think the odds might be against him though. The front may look cool, but you should never judge a book by it's cover. Try judging it by the new teaser:

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Comfortable in their new safe house, Max and the rest of the Flock finally begin to feel optimistic about their newly-gained freedom. Then the Machine Geeks appear--part machine, part human, totally destructive. They are in the service of an ominous Mr. Chu, who has his eyes on the Flock and their unique abilities. And if he can't have them, he'll make sure nobody else can either!As the Flock battles the Machine Geeks, trouble is bubbling to the surface of the ocean. Millions of fish are dying and someone is destroying hundreds of boats. The government asks for the Flock's help and it seems to be the perfect chance to escape from Mr. Chu and his marauding gang of thugs--especially since it means a trip to Hawaii! But danger continues to threaten Max and her friends. Can they protect themselves from Mr. Chu and save the ocean from utter destruction?

Twilight Movie

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movie vs. book

Wow. Okay, I had to see the movie twice to really be able to some up with a coherent thought about it. First I'll tell you the problems I had with the movie, and then the things I liked.

The first problem I had with it was how vague it was. At times I was sure many people who hadn't read the book were probably thinking, What's the point? Another problem was Kristen Stewart. I felt like she really changed who Bella was. She didn't have as much emotion, not nearly as much loving feelings as Bella. I thought that she seemed much more indifferent then she should. The last issue was how many of the conversations that shaped Bella and Edward's relationship were cut out. All of them! I know it's necessary to cut things so a movie has an appropriate time, but I think at least one conversation was needed. Without it Bella and Edward seem like a regular high school couple, not a human and a vampire who are in love and would die for each other. They could have cut out the part were Jacob tells Bella how "They'd be watching," because it's really not that important in the scheme of things. They also maybe could have cut the number of humans killed by Jame's Coven down to one, so as to make better time.

Despite the numerous problems, there were also things I liked about the movie. I loved the piano scene, because I thought the mood was very true to the book, and it honestly made me want to cry. Another thing I liked was how well Robert Pattinson portrayed Edward's self-loathing. It was a little overdone at some parts, and sometimes put in at the wrong moment, but it was still pretty good. Here's a shocker, people: I liked the part where Edward is finding the will to stop killing Bella, and there's a flashback and some music. Even though that was not in the book, and it wasn't something I expected at all, I really liked it. i thought it showed Edward's love for her a lot, and it was definitely struck a chord with the true meaning of the book, and of their relationship.

Over all the movie was good, bad, it made me laugh(when Edward held is nose!), and made me cry. Even though I think Twilight never should have been turned into a movie, I think that under the circumstances, they did a good job, and I'm anxious to see how the rest turn out.

Breaking Dawn (Warning, spoilers)

Breaking Dawn

by Stephanie Meyer

romance/fantasy/adventure

*****

Teaser

"Don't be afraid," I murmured.

"We belong together."I was abruptly overwhelmed by the truth of my own words.

This moment was so perfect, so right, there was no way to doubt it.

His arms wrapped around me holding me against him.It felt like every nerve in my body was alive wire.

"Forever," he agreed.

Review

Raechel's Review:

This book blew me away. I couldn't believe it. Everything about Bella and Edward changes, and the way you look at the entire story changes. But I am happy with the way Meyer ended the series. She turned Bella into who she was always meant to be, and the story just takes off. Breaking Dawn is extraordinary, romantic, and keeps you on the edge the whole time. The whole series speaks so much about how love conquers everything, and how you always have a choice. All in all, this book was amazing and belongs on every bookshelf everywhere, along with the rest of the saga.

Of Mice and Men

Of Mice and Men

By John Steinbeck

Historical Fiction

***

Review

Of Mice and Men was a very different book for me. I had never really done a lot of reading in that time period, and it was my first John Steinbeck read (though I am looking forward to reading East of Eden). But I found it to be one of those books that has a very wholesome mood to it. I also found the story to be a very different one, and very sweet. The writing style had almost a light tone to it, even when talking of the darkest events. WARNING, SPOILERS IN THE NEXT SENTENCE! I liked this book because it had a sadder ending, and everyone has told me this will make me a Steinbeck fan. I am a fan of the sad ending.

Jane Eyre

Jane Eyre

By Charlotte Bronte

Romance

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*****

"I must, then, repeat continually that we are sundered; and yet, while I breathe and think, I must love him."

"After a season of darkness and struggling, light broke and relief fell."

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Review

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This book blew me away. Jane Eyre is a whirlwind of passion, hate, religion, and every single word strikes closer to the heart until you're sure this book will be the end of you. The beginning of this book and the character of Jane's friend Helen blew me away, I loved her so much, and you could just feel how real she, and everything else is. And not just that, you would really want to learn from and be like Helen. The as Jane's character develops more and more through the book, you feel her pain and love, and you feel the reality of the story. One really nice thing about this book is there are no cliffhangers at the end of chapters. Each chapter is the perfect daily read, and though I could have read it all in one night, it was easier to stop than other books. Not because it was not good, but because the chapters were split so well. This book also covered a wide range of very serious and and diverse topics. This book was definitely not just the cushy woman-only love story it has been called. But one of the things I loved best about this book is that I learned so much. Not just academically, but emotionally. Over all, to read Jane Eyre would be one of the best literary decisions you will ever make.

Uglies

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Uglies

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By Scott Westerfield

Science Fiction/Adventure/Romance

*****

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Teaser

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Tally is about to turn sixteen, and she can't wait. Not for her license-for turning pretty. In Tally's world, your sixteenth birthday brings an operation that turns you from a repellent ugly into a stunningly attractive pretty and catapults you into a high-tech paradise where your only job is to have a really great time. In just a few week Tally will be there.

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But Tally's new friend Shay isn't sure she wants to be pretty. She'd rather risk like on the outside. When Shay runs away, Tally learns about a whole new side of the pretty world- one that isn't very pretty. The authorities offer Tally the worst choice she can imagine: find her friend and turn her in, or turn pretty at all. The choice Tally makes changes her world forever.

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Review

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When I first bought this book, I thought it sounded kind of superficial and weird. When people told me about it, I always thought it sounded just kind of like your average future book. But this book ended up being really good. I was amazed that i was instantly pulled into the book once I had read chapter one. What I really liked about this book is it's just not like hearing a story, even though it's in third person. It seems amazingly real, every human part of Tally just hits home with the reader. This book takes you on a wild, futuristic adventure and leaves you gasping, awaiting more. At first I was reluctant to give it five stars, but for the type of book it is, I definitly think Uglies deserves it.

Book Slam: The Green Glass Sea

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The Green Glass Sea

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By Ellen Klages

Fiction/Science Fiction

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Teaser

Suze unfolded the top of the bag. Dewey started to say something, started to shake her head no, then shrank away from the protest like a turtle pulling it's head back toward its shell. Suze reached in and picked up a book, riffling the pages with her thumb.

"The Boy Mechanic." she said, snickering. "Why do you have that?"

"They didn't make one for girls," Dewey replied.

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Slam

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Okay, I'm surprised I even bought this book. But what surprises me more is the fact that it won the Scott O'Dell Award. I myself don't find this book capable of any award. I kept trying so hard to read this book, and it was just so boring. Finally picking it up was torture. The book seemed very monotone, the characters, story, and descriptions all very generic. This author was being, well, generically creative. What I mean is that if some kid turned it in for a 9th grade English paper, everyone would be amazed. But everyone would be so much more amazed if it were actually published, for different reasons. Over all, don't waste you time or money on this book.

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Inherit the Wind

Inherit the Wind

by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee

Historical Fiction

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****

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as"Gentleman, progress has never been a bargain. You've got to pay for it. Sometimes i think there's a man behind a counter who says, 'Alright, you can have a telephone; but you'll have to give up privacy, the charm of distance. Madam, you may vote; but at a price; you lose the right to retreat behind a powder-puff or a petticoat. Mister, you may conquer the air; but the birds will lose their wonder, and the clouds will smell of gasoline!'"

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Teaser

The accused was a slight, frightened man who had deliberatley broken the law. his trial was a Roman circus. the chief gladiators were the two great legal giants of the century. like two bull elephants locked in mortal combat, they bellowed and roared imprecations and abuse. the spectators sat uneasily in the sweltering heat with murder in their hearts, barely able to restrain themselves.

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At stake was the freedom of every American.

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Review

Inherit the Wind is based off of the famous Scopes trial. This case was centered around the debate between evolution and creation. The seemingly innocent school teacher is placed on trial for teaching his students the theory of evolution, knowing full well that this is illegal in his state. The two legal giants of the time then show up in the tiny southern town and go at it. The dialouges between them are amazing and at times quite thought provoking. The pivitol scene in which Drummond (evolutionist) calls Brady (devout christian) to the stand and helps plead Cates' case by questioning Brady's faith, is intensely fascinating. The characters of Drummond and Brady (the attorneys) are extremely well developed. If you have the slightest interest whatsoever in the centuries old battle between science and religion, this is the book for you.

To Kill a Mockingbird

To Kill a Mockingbird

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by Harper Lee

Historical Fiction

***

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Teaser

The unforgettable novel of a childhood in a sleepy Southern town and the crisis of conscience that rocked it. Compassionate, dramatic, and deeply moving, To Kill a Mockingbird takes readers to the roots of human behavior - to innocence and experience, kindness and cruelty, love and hatred, humor and pathos.

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sdhsdhReview

When I first picked up this novel I expected it to be rather boring and honestly, the first hundred pages or so kind of were. In this book you travel with two children through a very rough time in their lives. The great depression has set in and their father, a lawyer, has taken on the toughest case of his career. The trial creates some very exciting drama, for the issue that was really being tried was the credibility of a black man in a time when they had no rights. This book gives a deep insight into what is right and what is wrong. It is an interesting view on this matter because it is seen from the eyes of a child. For anyone interested in historical fiction this is the book for you.

Raechel- I just wanted to add a little bit to this post.  I loved To Kill A Mockingbird because of the tangible world Harper Lee creates and just how descriptive and real Maycomb, Alabama becomes to the reader.  Whenever I think of good imagery, I think of To Kill A Mockingbird.  I think the book also touches and many different moral issues, and the book as a whole is very relatable.  I would probably have given this book four stars.  

The Hobbit

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The Hobbit

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By J.R.R. Tolkien

Fantasy/Adventure

***1/2

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"If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold (as the hobbits do), it would be a merrier world."

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Review

When I read The Hobbit, my first impression was that is was a very wholesome feeling book. By wholesome I mean it portrayed some of the characters as contented people, and the book itself was contenting. I have heard some people say they were bored with this book, but I found it exhilarating, and it takes the reader on a journey through magical lands with interesting people. This book is great for fantasy lovers, and good for all ages as well.

Eclipse

Eclipse

By Stephanie Meyer

Romance/Science Fiction/Fantasy

*****

" 'What would you do if she changed her mind?' Jacob asked.

'I don't know that either.'

Jacob chuckled quietly. 'Would you try to kill me?'. Sarcastic again, as if doubting Edward's ability to do it.

'No.'

'Why not?' Jacob's tone was still jeering.

'Do you really think I would hurt her that way?'

Jacob hesitated for a second, and then sighed. 'Yeah, you're right. I know that's right. But sometimes...'

'Sometimes it's an intriguing idea.'"

Teaser

In the dead silence, all the details suddenly fell into place for me with a burst of intuition. Something Edward didn't want me to know. Something that Jacob wouldn't have kept from me. Something that had the Cullens and the wolves both in the woods, moving in hazardous proximity to each other....

Something I'd been waiting for anyway.

Something I knew would happen again,

as much as I wish it never would.

Review

I was so excited for the release of Eclipse. My favorite part of the book is a conversation between Edward and Jacob. I felt Meyer created a true image of what it means to choose your destiny. Bella is struggling with many choices in her life, and in the end, Meyer leaves you waiting for more. The book starts out simple and in a happy mood, Btu it quickly changes to adventure and love. Eclipse made me look at the whole series in a new way. This book is exhilarating, interesting, and makes me wish there were more pages to turn. If you have read Twilight and New Moon, you simply have to read this book. The whole series is great for anyone, even the guys. So regardless who you are, go out and read Eclipse!

I Am the Messenger

I AM THE MESSENGER

By Markus Zusak
Mystery, Realistic Fiction, Romance

****

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"Maybe everyone can live beyond what they're capable of."

Teaser

Meet Ed Kennedy—underage cabdriver, pathetic cardplayer, and useless at romance. He lives in a shack with his coffee-addicted dog, the Doorman, and he’s hopelessly in love with his best friend, Audrey. His life is one of peaceful routine and incompetence, until he inadvertently stops a bank robbery. That’s when the first Ace arrives. That’s when Ed becomes the messenger. . . .Chosen to care, he makes his way through town helping and hurting (when necessary), until only one question remains: Who’s behind Ed’s mission?

Review
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When I first picked this book up, I thought it sounded really strange. But, I was interested because I had heard many good things about this author. I was actually bought this book on a trip to New York, and so I started it on the way home. I read the book in two days, because once I started it, I was very curious. Zusak really made me want to know what happens next. I liked the character of Ed very much, because he's always very calm, and he's definitely a realist. I Am the Messenger made me think about the way humans react to what happens to them, and it also makes the startling realization that things don't just happen to us, we make our future. I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys Markus Zusak, and also anyone who liked Wicked, because I saw a few similarities there. I Am the Messenger is good, and meant to be read. I hope you read it, and I hope you get the message.

Number The Stars

Number The Stars

By Lois Lowry

Historical Fiction

***

"It is much easier to be brave when we do not know everything."

Teaser

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Ten year-old Annemarie Johanson and her best friend, Ellen Rosen, often think about the way life was before the war. It's now 1943, and their life in Copenhagen is filled with school, food shortages, and the Nazi soldiers marching through their town.

The Nazis won't stop. The Jews of Denmark are being "relocated", so Ellen moves in with the Johansons and pretends to be part of the family.

The Annemarie is asked to on a dangerous mission. Somehow she must find the strength and courage to save her best friend's life. There's no turning back.

Review

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When I first picked up this book, I thought it just looked like a simple, easy read. I have read the Giver, and loved it, so I decided to go ahead and read this one. But I ended up really liking it. It was overall well-written, and it was a little suspenseful. It turns the dark age of Hitler into the innocent childhood of little Annemarie, and the book makes you look at things with a pure and innocent child's point of view. This book was great for anyone who is interested in the Holocaust, and takes an interesting look at the morals of humanity. I recommend this book if you like historical fiction. Otherwise, you might be a little bored.

Upcoming Event: Twilight Movie

Upcoming Event: Twilight Movie

12/12/08

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"When you can live forever, what do you live for?"

I don't know about you guys, but I am really anxious for this movie. I am still debating whether or not to go see it. The only part of the cast I approve of is Charlie, and Edward is okay. Alice is alright, but in my opinion the rest are horrible. But, because I am an obsessive bookworm, I'll probably see the movie anyway. Ugh. Ha ha. In November we will probably have a poll asking you if you want to see the movie if you have read the book, so you better get going. We will also have a Movies vs. Books post on it after it comes out. Probably the next day.

Here is Stephanie Meyer's Twilight Movie Page. She has a lot of good info and videos, so check it out. Watch the commercial. The only concern I have about the commercial is that TWILIGHT VAMPIRES DON'T FLY! Apparently the film directors think they do.

Twilight Movie Cast List

Bella
Kristen Stewart

Edward

Robert Pattinson

Charlie
Billy Burke

Alice
Ashley Greene

Rosalie
Nikki Reed

Jasper
Jackson Rathbone

Emmett
Kellan Lutz

Carlisle
Peter Facinelli

James
Cam Gigandet

Jacob Black
Taylor Lautner

Jessica
Anna Kendrick

Mike Newton
Michael Welch

Eric
Justin Chon

Angela
Christian Serratos

Billy Black
Gil Birmingham

Esme
Elizabeth Reaser

Laurent
Edi Gathegi

Victoria
Rachelle Lafevre

Renee
Sarah Clarke

Tyler
Gregory Tyree Boyce

Waylon Forge
Ned Bellamy

Phil
Matt Bushell

Mr. Molina
Jose Zuniga

Even though I'll probably hate it, I'm going to go see it. If you see it, post us a comment and tell us what you think, or if you have any info or something to say about the movie. We'd also love to see any fan made cast videos.

New Moon

New Moon

By Stephanie Myer

Fiction/Romance/Fantasy

*****

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" Once you cared about a person, it was impossible to be logical about them anymore."

"'NO! This is about my soul, isn't it?' I shouted furious, the words exploding out of me-somehow it still sounded like a plea. 'Carlisle told me about that, and I don't care, Edward. I don't care! You can have my soul. I don't want it without you-it's yours already!"

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Teaser

I knew we were both in mortal danger.

Still, in that instant, I felt well. Whole.

I could feel my heart beating in my chest, the blood pulsing hot and fast through my veins again.

My lungs filled deep with the sweet scent that came off his skin.

It was like there had never been any hole in my chest.

I was perfect-not healed, but as if

there had never been a wound in the first place.

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Review

You know, I've heard most Twilight fans say that New Moon was their least favorite book in the series. Some say it was because there wasn't enough Edward, some say the middle was really boring, but New Moon was actually my favorite book in this saga. I loved the different mood that separates the book from the rest of the series. I think that this book only strengthens our knowledge of the characters, and of the story of Twilight. This book shows how important love truly is, and also the reality that things don't always work out for everyone. The reader feels Bella's pain, shares her joy, and so much more. The book helps us see that despite what we tell ourselves, true love always comes first. This book is really good, and I think if you really liked Twilight, and you liked the story, not just Edward, then you will like New Moon.

Movies vs. Books

Movies vs. Books: Eragon

This book was loved by many people, including myself. The author, Paolini, was admired because he had written such a popular book at such a young age. So naturally, when it was announced that there would be a movie, everyone was very excited. But when fans flocked in to see the film, most were extremely disappointed. The movie was a horrible likeness of the book. I know some things must be cut out, or changed slightly in order to make the movie an appropriate length, but this was absolutely ridiculous. Many major plot changes were lacking from the film. This made it hard to understand, and if you hadn't previously read the novel, it was at times very hard to follow. Additionaly, it seems as though the producers of this film did not even read the rest of the novels in the series. Many things that were absolutely essential to the other books, were left completly out of the movie. This will only make it harder to explain things in the following movies. That is, if they even produce they rest of them. Speaking of not understanding things, nothing was ever explained. The movie never told the reasons behind any of the desicion making or actions throughout the film. One minute, they're peacefully strolling around the city, and the next they're in a bloody war. To those who hadn't previously read the novel, this was hard to understand, and just yet another example of the terrible flow throughout this film. Lastly, the movie just lacked the amazing detail of Paolini's books. The appearances of some of the characters were altered to an almost unrecognizable point (cough* cough* Arya). And just the general tone of the movie was much different (in a bad way) than that of the book. I loved the Eragon book, but the movie was awful. I was ranting about it for days. And if you havn't already, (and you've read the book) i really recommend you don't see it.

Frankenstein

Frankenstein

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Mary Shelley

Classic Literature/Fiction/Horror

*****

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"I am malicious because I am miserable. Am I not shunned and hated by all mankind? You, my creator, would tear me to pieces, and triumph; remember that, and tell me why I should pity man more than he pities me?" - Monster

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Teaser

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Few creatures of horror have seized readers' imaginations and held them for so long as the anguished monster of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. The story of Victor Frankenstein's terrible creation and the havoc it caused has enthralled generations of readers an inspired countless writers of horror and suspense. Considering the novel's enduring success, it is remarkable that it began merely as a whim of Lord Byron's.

"We will each write a ghost story," Byron announced to his next-door neighbors, Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin and her lover Percy Bysshe Shelley. The friends were summering on the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland in 1816, Shelley still unknown as a poet, Byron writing the third canto to Childe Harold. When continual rains kept them confines indoors, all agreed to Byron's proposal.

The illustrious poets failed to complete their ghost stories. But Mary Shelley rose supremely to the challenge. With Frankenstein, she succeeded admirably in the task she set for herself: to create a story that, in her own words, "would speak to the mysterious fears of our nature and awaken thrilling horror - one to make the reader dread to look round, to curdle the blood, and quicken the beating of the heart."

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Review

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This is very possibly the best written book that I have ever read. It's definitely one of my absolute favorites. Mary Shelley does a superb job with details. You can imagine ever character perfectly, and her descriptions of the monster leave nothing to be desired. Her descriptions of nature are so exact that you can picture the scenery down to the last speck of dirt or blade of grass. She also manages to tie up every loose end. Nothing goes unexplained, and at the end of the novel you feel as though you have really witnessed this terrible atrocity. Shelley has a unique way of playing with the reader's emotions. At times you feel such incredible pity for the monster that it is nearly overwhelming. And yet still, at other times, you feel such hatred for him that you hope and pray for his demise. This novel is a very "dark romantic" styled writing. The elegant phrasing also adds to the emotional level of this piece. I loved everything about this book. I highly recommend it for advanced young readers interested in classic literature, or adults.

Sherlock Holmes

The Complete Sherlock Holmes

By Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Mystery

****

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"Elementary, my dear Watson."

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Teaser

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Eccentric, arrogant, and ingenious, Sherlock Holmes remains the world's most popular and influential fictional detective. In four novels and fifty-six short stories, Holmes, with his trusted friend Dr. Watson, steps from his comfortable quarters at 221B Baker Street into the swirling fog of London. Combining detailed observation with brilliant deduction, Homes rescues the innocent, confounds the guilty, and solves the most perplexing puzzles crime has to offer.

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Review

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I enjoyed Sherlock Holmes, and I found that it was a really good break from extremely singular genres such as romance or science fiction. I liked the short story format because I could just browse through the book at my leisure. I also enjoyed the novels, they provided more elaborate stories. Holmes is a character that is impossible not to like, either for his wit or his cunning. The crimes are also interesting because you can try to solve them as the story goes, like most mysteries. Over all, Sherlock Holmes was a very well rounded book, and for people who enjoy adventure, mystery, and reading late into the night, this is a great book.

Upcoming Event: Breaking Dawn Release

Upcoming Event: Breaking Dawn Release

Breaking Dawn is the fourth installment in the Twilight Saga, an incredibaly popular series by Stephanie Myer. It is set to be released on August 6th. Here is the Breaking Dawn page on Stephanie Meyer's website. The first chapter can be found in the back of Eclipse Special Edition, and here.


I am very excited for this book, and I hope that Meyer will tie everything up well, which seems to be what many authors writing a series struggle with. We'll have to see!

Twilight

Twilight

Stephenie Meyer

Fiction / Romance

*****

""Bella." His fingers lightly traced the shape of my lips. "I will stay with you - isn't that enough?" I smiled under his fingertips. "Enough for now."

He frowned at my tenacity. No one was going to surrender tonight. He exhaled, and the sound was practically a growl.

I touched his face. "Look," I said. "I love you more than everything else in the world combined. Isn't that enough?"

"Yes, it is enough," he answered smiling. "Enough for forever." And he leaned down to press his cold lips once more to my throat.

Teaser

About three things I was absolutely positve.

First, Edward was a vampire.

Second, there was a part of him - and I didn't know how potent that part might be - that thirsted for my blood.

And Third, I was unconditionally and irrevocably in love with him...

Review

Let me start out by saying that this is the best book ever written. Actually, no... I enjoyed Eclipse (the third novel in the series) even more, but thats beside the point. Twilight is perfect combination of action, romance, and fiction. The characters are so amazingly well developed that I found myself lost in their emotions every time I picked this book up. Many people are turned off of this book because of it's steryotype as a "vampire-love-story", but these are no regular vampires. These ones have morals. They care enough for humanity to curve their malicious appetites and live a more "vegatarian lifestyle", as they put it.

Yes. This book is about an age-less vampire who is desperately smitten with a human. But this book is also a beautifully woven tale of true love and the struggles we are willing to endure to make sure that it lasts... in this case, quite literally... Forever.

I highly recommend this book for people of all ages. It's an incredible page turner. I finished it in a day.

Book Slam

Book Slam:

Maximum Ride: The Final Warning

By James Patterson
Science Fiction
272 pages
*1/2

Teaser

First she was watched.

In this breathtaking new story from the astonishing imagination of James Patterson, a girl has to save herself from an army assembled just to capture her-and maybe save the planet while she's at it.

Then she was threatened.

Maximum Ride is a perfectly normal teenager who just happens to be able to fly, the result of an out-of-control genetic experiment. Max and the other members of the the flock-five kids who share her remarkable ability-have been asked to aid a group of environmental scientists studying the effects of global warming. The expedition seems like a perfect combination of adventure, activism-and escape from the government forces that are watching the flock all the time...

This is her final warning.

But even in Antarctica, enduring the harshest weather on the planet, Maximum Ride is an irresistible target in constant danger. Whoever controls her powers could also control the world...

Slam

I absolutely loved that first three Maximum Ride books. However, I was disappointed in the fourth one. It lacked what made the first three books so good. They were all action packed, full or sarcasm and witty "Max moments", and it seemed to be one of the few series in which the author really knew what they were doing. The Final Warning was very different from that. There wasn't as much action, Max lost some of her character, and it really seemed like James Patterson wasn't sure where he was going with the plot. Overall, I was extremely dissapointed, and I hope he has enough sense to make the possible fifth book better.

Maximum Ride: Saving the World and Other Extreme Sports

Maximum Ride: Saving the World and Other Extreme Sports

By James Patterson

Science Fiction

****

"There is one bright side to this." said Fang.

"Yeah, what's that?" The new and improved Erasers would mutilate us before they killed us?

He grinned at me so unexpectedly I forgot to flap for a second and dropped several feet. "You looove me," he crooned smugly. Holding his arms out wide, he added,

"You love me this much."

Teaser

There's one last chance to save the world... and it's in the hands of six extraordinary kids who can fly. Only they, led by the valiant Max, can stop a deadly plot to annihilate half the human population even as they're being hunted by nightmarish enemies. With mankind on the brink of destruction, Max must fight to protect those she loves, identify a traitor in the flock, and uncover a startling secret that will change her future...if there is a future.

Review

This book keeps the adventure rolling without a break, but it also makes you experience many other aspects of a teenage girl's life, and the strong love for her family. The characters continue to draw you in, and the book raises new questions, both for yourself and the author. It makes you understand how the simplicity of a child's view can alter the world. This book continues to be unique and creates an almost sense of family with the characters. This book is a great read.

The Host

The Host

Stephanie Myer

Science Fiction

****1/2

Teaser

Melanie Stryder refuses to fade away. Our world has been invaded by an unseen enemy. Humans have become hosts for these invaders, their minds taken over while their bodies remain intact and continue their lives apparently unchanged. Most of humanity has succumbed.

When Melanie, one of the few remaining "wild" humans, is captured, she is certain it is her end. Wanderer, the invading "soul" who has been given Melanie's body, was warned about the challenges of living inside a human: the overwhelming emotions, the glut of senses, the too-vivid memories. But there was one difficulty Wanderer didn't expect: the former tenant of her body refusing to relinquish possession of her mind.

Wanderer probes Melanie's thoughts, hoping to discover the whereabouts of the remainng human resistance. Instead, Melanie fills Wanderer's mind with visions of the man Melanie loves-Jared, a human who still lives in hiding. Unable to separate herself from her body's desires, Wanderer begins to yearn for a man she has been tasked with exposing. When outside forces make Wanderer and Melanie unwilling allies, the set off on a dangerous and uncertain search for the man they both love.

Review

I have read Twilight, so I was worried this book would be too much like Meyer's other books, and it would be a disappointment. I was wrong. This book started out strange, but with great character development. This book doesn't focus on the science fiction part of the story, but the characters. You find yourself wound up in the reality of Wanderer's world, crying her tears, and smiling for her happiness. This is one of those books that you put down, and it takes you a couple days to break out of the haze. It was fascinating, and it drew the reader into the book, and occasionally had me reading into the night. I recommend this book for anyone who liked Twilight, and/or Maximum Ride. There were moments where I was reminded of both books, but The Host still has an eerie uniqueness that I loved.

Bookarazzi Through E-mail

Alright, from now on there is a cool new feature on Bookarazzi. Do you sometimes forget our URL? Do you not always have time to check our site? Well now we have something totally cool for you. Now you can get all of our Bookarazzi posts THROUGH YOUR E-MAIL!!! How cool is that? If you want to get Bookarazzi through mail, look on the bottom of the column to the left, and click the link that says Click Here to Get Bookarazzi Posts Through E-mail! Or you could just click here.

Maximum Ride: School's Out Forever

Maximum Ride: School's Out Forever

By James Patterson

Science Fiction

399 Pages

****

Teaser

Brace yourself for the #1 bestselling suspense series about your best dream-and worst nightmare: to have wings and be able to fly. For six amazing kids -lab escapes engineered with this incredible gift-it means living and breathing the adrenaline of freedom and fear as they flee from ruthless predators...in search of their parents, their purpose, and survival. The prize is worth everything: Max, Fang Iggy, Nudge, Gasman, and Angel just might save the world. Or maybe not.

Review

Okay, this book was a perfect continuation of the first book in the Maximum Ride series. It's full of action as the flock continues to discover more about themselves, and this book really makes you want to go out and do something to save the world, or just kick someones butt. When reading, James Patterson really makes you feel the amazing sensation of flying, of moving your wings up and down a thousand feet from the Earth. This book is breathtaking, and leaves you waiting for more.

Wicked

Wicked

by Gregory Maguire

Fiction

406 pages

****

"You're my soul come scavenging for me, I can feel it." said the Witch. "I won't have it, I won't have it. I won't have a soul; with a soul there is everlastingness, and life has tortured me enough."

Teaser

When Dorothy triumphed over the Wicked Witch of the West in L. Frank Baum's classic tale, we only heard her side of the story. But what about her arch-nemesis, the mysterious Witch? Where did she come from? how did she become so wicked? And what is the true nature of evil?

Gregory Maguire creates a fantasy world so rich and vivid that we will never look at Oz the same way again. Wicked is about a land where animals talk and strive to be treated like first-class citizens, Munchkindlanders seek the comfort of middle-class stability, and the Tin Man becomes a victim of domestic violence. And then there is the little green-skinned girl named Elphaba, who will grow up to become the infamous Wicked Witch of the West, a smart, prickly, and misunderstood creature who challenges all our preconceived notions about the nature of good and evil.

Review

I found this book very interesting. It started out a little strange, but the book is well written, and the discussion and internal conflict of Elphaba are amazing. What is waiting for us in the afterlife? Why do we do the things we do? Does everyone possess a soul? Is that a good thing or a bad thing? This book is great, and a book that really makes you think. All Elphaba wants is to be forgiven. But by who? Herself, the Unnamed God(from the story), or her peers? This book was great, and it had one of the best endings I have ever read. But then again, I have a thing for unhappy endings. This book was a whole new experience, and I hope if you read it you enjoy it as much as i did.

This Lullaby

This Lullaby

by Sarah Dessen

Contemporary Realism

345 pages

****

"I knew that there were no guarantees. No way of knowing what came next for me, or him, or anybody. Some things don't last forever, but somethings do. Like a good song, or a good book, or a good memory you can take out and unfold in your darkest times, pressing down the corners and peering in close, hoping you still recognize the person you see there."

Teaser

Remy always knew when to give a guy "the speech" - right after the initial romantic rush, but before anything gets too serious. She's had her fair share of boyfriends, and she's learned all there is to learn from her mother, who's currently working on husband number five. so why is it that Rmey can't seem to dump Dexter? It can't be his name. It can't be that he's messy and disorganized. And it certainly isn't that he's a musician - just like Remy's father, a man she never knew because he left before she was born. Could it be that Remy's romantic rules to live by don't apply anymore?

Review

I loved this book. It's very well written and the characters are all easy to relate to. Their emotions are expressed very well and I often found myself completely submerged in the novel. Remy is a very strong girl who knows what's best and always sticks to "the rules". While Dexter, completely her foil, is a free-thinking, wild and crazy, lives with his maruading wedding band kinda guy. Their romance is unlikely, and ultimately it surprises both of them. I couldn't put this book down... I finished it in a day.

The Picture of Dorian Gray

The Picture of Dorian Gray

by Oscar Wilde

Classic Literature

229 pages

***

"I have grown to love secrecy. It seems to be the one thing that can make modern life mysterious and marvelous to us."

"If a man is a gentleman, he knows quite enough, and if he is not a gentleman, whatever he knows is bad for him."

"There are many things that we would throw away if we were not afraid that others might pick them up."

"I am what I am. There is nothing more to be said."

"But the picture? what was he to say to that? It held the secret of his life and told his story. It had taught him to love his own beauty. Would it teach him to loathe his own soul?"

Teaser

Oscar Wilde brings his enormous gifts for astute social observation and sparkling prose to The Picture of Dorian Gray, his dreamlike story of a young man who sells his soul for eternal youth and beauty. This dandy, who remains forever unchanged - petulant, hedonistic, vain, and amoral - while a painting of him ages and grows increasingly hideous with the years, has been horrifying, enchanting, obsessing, even corrupting readers for more than a hundred years.

Taking the reader in and out of London drawing rooms, to the heights of aestheticism, and to the depths of decadence, The Picture of Dorian Gray is not only a melodrama about moral corruption. Laced with vivid depictions of upper-class refinement, it is also a fascinating look at the milieu of Wilde's manifesto of the creed "Art for Art's Sake."

Review

This book is incredibly fascinating, but also exceptionally dull at times. It provides an excellent look at the internal struggle between what is right, and what is fun. Another central conflict in this book was that of the importance of beauty over intelligence. Men with education were next to worthless, for anything except their selected area of skill, in these times. Vanity is a huge part of this piece also. All of these things are masterfully blended together to create some very enthralling conversations. This book is very well written in the respect that it flows well, however, I did notice that the action seemed to come in spurts, followed by some down time that tended to be boring. Overall I enjoyed this book. It had parts that I absolutely loved and the ending is totally worth pushing through the dull parts for.

Maximum Ride: The Angel Experiment

Maximum Ride: The Angel Experiment

By James Patterson

Science Fiction
413 Pages

*****

"The funny thing about facing imminent death is that it really snaps everything into perspective. Take right now, for instance."

Teaser

Six unforgettable kids-with no families, no homes- are running for their lives. Max Ride and her best friends are products of an experiment: they were engineered to fly. And that's just the beginning of their amazing powers. Now they've escaped, and they need to know who made them, who's hunting them, and why they were designed to be superior to all other humans. James Patterson calls Maximum Ride: "My favorite story, and probably my best."

Review

This book was great. I really liked it because it had lots of action that kept you at the edge of your seat, and all the characters were very well developed and had good humor. It was like nothing I have ever read before, and I occasionally really felt like I was right there, flying with Max. This book was great and an excellent read for book lovers of all ages.