I was lucky to get my hands on a book by Cheryl (Cole) for this Christmas and I really enjoyed it. I love books about people's lives and enjoyed following along her life story and reading about things that happened in her life and how they were shown in the press- mostly wrongly or made up!!
Recommended read....
Saturday 29 December 2012
Saturday 24 November 2012
November: Looking for Alaska
This book was lent to me by a friend and I absolutely love it. Book of the Month:
Looking for Alaska~ JOHN GREEN
First friend, first girl, last words.
I don't think there is any other way to describe this book more perfectly than the words 'first friend, first girl, last words' that are found on the front of the book.
I would like to include an extract from the book that I found truly moving....
When adults say, "Teenagers think they are invincible," with that stupid smile on their faces, they don't know how right they are. We need never be hopeless, because we can never be irreparably broken. We think that we are invincible because we are. We cannot be born and we cannot die. Like all energy, we can only change shapes and sizes and manifestations. They forget that when they get old. They get scared of losing and failing. But that part of us greater than the sum of our parts cannot begin and cannot end, so it cannot fail.
So I know she forgives me, just as I forgive her. Thomas Edison's last words were, "It's very beautiful over there."
A powerful, thought-provoking read from the passionate author John Green. 100% recommended.
Ellie xx
Looking for Alaska~ JOHN GREEN
First friend, first girl, last words.
I don't think there is any other way to describe this book more perfectly than the words 'first friend, first girl, last words' that are found on the front of the book.
I would like to include an extract from the book that I found truly moving....
When adults say, "Teenagers think they are invincible," with that stupid smile on their faces, they don't know how right they are. We need never be hopeless, because we can never be irreparably broken. We think that we are invincible because we are. We cannot be born and we cannot die. Like all energy, we can only change shapes and sizes and manifestations. They forget that when they get old. They get scared of losing and failing. But that part of us greater than the sum of our parts cannot begin and cannot end, so it cannot fail.
So I know she forgives me, just as I forgive her. Thomas Edison's last words were, "It's very beautiful over there."
A powerful, thought-provoking read from the passionate author John Green. 100% recommended.
Ellie xx
Saturday 29 September 2012
September- why we broke up
Hey Guys,
I'm surprised I've had time to finish a whole book this month because I've been so busy but I've read a few and have finally got a few hours to catch up and write my blog posts!
'Why we broke up' by Daniel Handler
Handler writes about a young girl who has just broken up with a guy named Ed and a collection of items that mark their time together.
A part of the blurb...
'Two bottle caps, a movie ticket from Greta in the Wild, a note from you, a box of matches, your protractor, Joan's book, the stolen sugar, a toy truck, those ugly earrings, a comb from the motel and the rest of it.
This is it, Ed.
The whole story of why we broke up'
I enjoyed the book immensely however it did take me a while to connect with the story initially. I was surprised to find out that Daniel Handler is also the creator of Lemony Snicket novels!
My favourite part about this book is the feel of the pages, bright and colourful images to mark each item and the layout, its a really friendly approachable paperback even if it was quite pricey!
I'm surprised I've had time to finish a whole book this month because I've been so busy but I've read a few and have finally got a few hours to catch up and write my blog posts!
'Why we broke up' by Daniel Handler
Handler writes about a young girl who has just broken up with a guy named Ed and a collection of items that mark their time together.
A part of the blurb...
'Two bottle caps, a movie ticket from Greta in the Wild, a note from you, a box of matches, your protractor, Joan's book, the stolen sugar, a toy truck, those ugly earrings, a comb from the motel and the rest of it.
This is it, Ed.
The whole story of why we broke up'
I enjoyed the book immensely however it did take me a while to connect with the story initially. I was surprised to find out that Daniel Handler is also the creator of Lemony Snicket novels!
My favourite part about this book is the feel of the pages, bright and colourful images to mark each item and the layout, its a really friendly approachable paperback even if it was quite pricey!
Wednesday 8 August 2012
August: The Amanda Project
This month's book is called The Amanda Project. I have yet to read all the books in the series but have read 'invisible i' and think its great. The Amanda project brings together unlikely characters to solve the disappearance of Amanda; its quirky, fun and a mystery- totally recommended.
I found this trailer which can sum up the book much better than I could. There is also an online 'community' all about the Amanda Project which is also worth a look at.
I found this trailer which can sum up the book much better than I could. There is also an online 'community' all about the Amanda Project which is also worth a look at.
Happy August! Much Love, E xx
Tuesday 17 July 2012
Something Blue & I heart...
Something Blue by Emily Giffin is a chick flick summer read packed with romance and happy endings.
Darcy is living the high life; successful and stunning until finding her best friend sleeping with her ex-fiance only days after the wedding was called off. Darcy calls around everyone she knows to escape now finding that she is pregnant and essentially homeless and settles to stay with Ethan a child hood friend in England for 'a few days' which turns into months, romances with doctors, new best friends and even the odd surprise.
I really enjoyed the fun pace of this book and as a hopeless romantic loved the ending too!
This type of book is becoming increasingly addictive as I find myself craving to escape to a much simpler and care free world.
The other series I recently read are written by Lindsey Kelk. The first is called I heart New York and is based along the same lines as Something Blue (minus the pregnancy).
Angela walks into her fiance having sex at her best friends wedding and finds the only solution to leave the UK, fly to New York and eat as much ice cream as possible -but not before peeing in the guy's suitcase.
When Angela arrives in NYC she checks in to the nearest hotel and makes friends with one of the receptionists; they move in together and she teaches Angela how to date; based on these experiences she gains a job at a leading magazine blogging about two guys; one a banker, another a freelance musician. Who will she fall for and how will they react to her blog...?
There are quite a few books in the I heart... series however I read the first (detailed above) and without meaning to skipped to the latest I heart London; if you fancy giving them a go they are really easy to follow so it really doesn't matter which you begin at because they are really accessible. Lots of laughs and smiles shed over this one... just what the doctor ordered.
I heart chick flicks at the moment... what are your recent reads?
Darcy is living the high life; successful and stunning until finding her best friend sleeping with her ex-fiance only days after the wedding was called off. Darcy calls around everyone she knows to escape now finding that she is pregnant and essentially homeless and settles to stay with Ethan a child hood friend in England for 'a few days' which turns into months, romances with doctors, new best friends and even the odd surprise.
I really enjoyed the fun pace of this book and as a hopeless romantic loved the ending too!
This type of book is becoming increasingly addictive as I find myself craving to escape to a much simpler and care free world.
The other series I recently read are written by Lindsey Kelk. The first is called I heart New York and is based along the same lines as Something Blue (minus the pregnancy).
Angela walks into her fiance having sex at her best friends wedding and finds the only solution to leave the UK, fly to New York and eat as much ice cream as possible -but not before peeing in the guy's suitcase.
When Angela arrives in NYC she checks in to the nearest hotel and makes friends with one of the receptionists; they move in together and she teaches Angela how to date; based on these experiences she gains a job at a leading magazine blogging about two guys; one a banker, another a freelance musician. Who will she fall for and how will they react to her blog...?
There are quite a few books in the I heart... series however I read the first (detailed above) and without meaning to skipped to the latest I heart London; if you fancy giving them a go they are really easy to follow so it really doesn't matter which you begin at because they are really accessible. Lots of laughs and smiles shed over this one... just what the doctor ordered.
I heart chick flicks at the moment... what are your recent reads?
Friday 13 July 2012
Diary of a Manhattan Call Girl by Tracy Quan
I picked this up for pennies in a charity shop purely because there was a
buy one get one free offer.
I'm not going to go into detail about the book because if you're into this stuff then you've probably already read it but I did find myself becoming strangely fascinated by this (to me) alien lifestyle.
I'm going to be studying Psychology full time soon and I suppose I became enthralled to find why the characters were call girls and why their clients visited them. I enjoyed how the book challenged some of the misconceptions and stereotypes of girls in similar positions but I definitely do not recommend this for readers younger than 18!!
I'm not going to go into detail about the book because if you're into this stuff then you've probably already read it but I did find myself becoming strangely fascinated by this (to me) alien lifestyle.
I'm going to be studying Psychology full time soon and I suppose I became enthralled to find why the characters were call girls and why their clients visited them. I enjoyed how the book challenged some of the misconceptions and stereotypes of girls in similar positions but I definitely do not recommend this for readers younger than 18!!
Books of July: The Hunger Games
I wasn't expecting to enjoy The Hunger Games trilogy but I did. So many people recommended them to me and when my sister bought the set I couldn't resist temptation.
I'm not normally into action and adventure but they seem to have opened up a thirst in me to try more books like them.
I really enjoyed all 3 of the novels- haven't seen the movie and not sure I will because I like them just as they are in my head.
If you haven't heard of The Hunger Games books by Suzanne Collins here is a quick synopsis...
The Hunger Games is a televised competition shown across Panem- a set of 12 districts- to remind the population that the Captiol is in charge. A boy and a girl under 18 are selected from each district to enter the games which result in only one winner. The books focus on the character Katniss Evergreen who offers to take Prim's (her sister) place in the games. She is at an advantage being a keen and skilled hunter and so brings many adventurous and keen characteristics but also has a rather compassionate side especially towards Peeta who is also selected from her district to enter the arena.
The trilogy follows the games and politics surrounding The Hunger Games as well as Katniss, Peeta, Gale (Katniss' best friend) and Haymitch (a previous victor).
I think these books will be around for a while yet and are such a great read not only for teens but adults alike.
I'm not normally into action and adventure but they seem to have opened up a thirst in me to try more books like them.
I really enjoyed all 3 of the novels- haven't seen the movie and not sure I will because I like them just as they are in my head.
If you haven't heard of The Hunger Games books by Suzanne Collins here is a quick synopsis...
The Hunger Games is a televised competition shown across Panem- a set of 12 districts- to remind the population that the Captiol is in charge. A boy and a girl under 18 are selected from each district to enter the games which result in only one winner. The books focus on the character Katniss Evergreen who offers to take Prim's (her sister) place in the games. She is at an advantage being a keen and skilled hunter and so brings many adventurous and keen characteristics but also has a rather compassionate side especially towards Peeta who is also selected from her district to enter the arena.
The trilogy follows the games and politics surrounding The Hunger Games as well as Katniss, Peeta, Gale (Katniss' best friend) and Haymitch (a previous victor).
I think these books will be around for a while yet and are such a great read not only for teens but adults alike.
Wednesday 27 June 2012
Cocktails for Three
Madeline Wickham (aka Sophie Kinsella) writes marvelously in this novel about three ladies working at a successful magazine who have formed a cocktail club that meet religiously-same place, same bar each month.
Each with different pasts, futures and life styles the bonded friendships become tested when lies, romances, secrets, bosses, babies and mother-in-laws come between them but as the girls embark on their journeys they find nothing can break them apart.
This is such a fun, frivilous and fantastic read!
Each with different pasts, futures and life styles the bonded friendships become tested when lies, romances, secrets, bosses, babies and mother-in-laws come between them but as the girls embark on their journeys they find nothing can break them apart.
This is such a fun, frivilous and fantastic read!
HUGE- Sasha Paley
HUGE- Welcome to Fat Camp-
I picked this book up for the grand sum of 50p in a charity shop, quick read but I one I really enjoyed.
Basic Plot:
two girls- both larger in size- one rich, one poor- one saves to go to a camp for weightloss, other is forced to attend by parents who own a chain of gyms- both have to share rooms over the summer.
When written like this the plot sounds like a chick-flick movie in which both characters end up best friends at the end and skip off into the horizon, however contrary to this the girls journey through a quick paced and empowering summer tackling issues and challenging one another over typical problems every teen faces; weight loss, friendships, popularity, jerks, challenging parents, boyfriends....
Sasha Paley writes really well in this classic teen flick; one that if you get the chance to read- probably wont change your life- but certainly wont harm you!
I picked this book up for the grand sum of 50p in a charity shop, quick read but I one I really enjoyed.
Basic Plot:
two girls- both larger in size- one rich, one poor- one saves to go to a camp for weightloss, other is forced to attend by parents who own a chain of gyms- both have to share rooms over the summer.
When written like this the plot sounds like a chick-flick movie in which both characters end up best friends at the end and skip off into the horizon, however contrary to this the girls journey through a quick paced and empowering summer tackling issues and challenging one another over typical problems every teen faces; weight loss, friendships, popularity, jerks, challenging parents, boyfriends....
Sasha Paley writes really well in this classic teen flick; one that if you get the chance to read- probably wont change your life- but certainly wont harm you!
Saturday 9 June 2012
Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul
Chicken Soup for the Soul has many different titles including those for Mothers/ Pet Lovers/ Christians/ Woman's Soul. They are all a collection of stories, poems and a few pictures about the selected topic.
Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul is written by Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen and Kimberley Kirberger and combines thousands of pieces in a 'handbook' format headed under the titles about relationships, friendships, family, love and kindness, learning, tough stuff, making a difference and going for it.
The opening sentence is 'It takes a thousand voices to tell a single story' (a Native American saying) one which couldn't sum up this book any better. Lots of the stories and poems are deeply personal and have really lovely meanings behind them to inspire readers of all ages. The book provides lessons for us to learn in a safe and contained space and can be read all at once or dipped into every now and again; by being split into different 'chapters' this makes it extremely easy to do.
If you've read it before comment below on your favourite parts of the book!
Happy Reading, Ellie <3
Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul is written by Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen and Kimberley Kirberger and combines thousands of pieces in a 'handbook' format headed under the titles about relationships, friendships, family, love and kindness, learning, tough stuff, making a difference and going for it.
The opening sentence is 'It takes a thousand voices to tell a single story' (a Native American saying) one which couldn't sum up this book any better. Lots of the stories and poems are deeply personal and have really lovely meanings behind them to inspire readers of all ages. The book provides lessons for us to learn in a safe and contained space and can be read all at once or dipped into every now and again; by being split into different 'chapters' this makes it extremely easy to do.
If you've read it before comment below on your favourite parts of the book!
Happy Reading, Ellie <3
Friday 1 June 2012
Book of June: Room
Fellow Readers,
Book of the Month: Room by Emma Donoghue
After looking at a fellow Blogger's post a few months ago I made a point to look out for Room.
Room follows an emotional journey of a young boy and his Mother who have been forever trapped in 'Room' and their escape to freedom. I don't want to give too much away of the story line but I will say I felt so emotionally attached to the characters; they are so believable and skillfully developed by Donoghue- every possible detail was covered magnificently and made me personally explore the meaning of reality and freedom.
Room raises so many 'life' questions and being from a small boy's perspective I think lots of people can relate to such an innocence and simplicity.
Both for adults and teens this book was perfect; I wholeheartedly recommend it and think it deserves every award going!
Enjoy!
Ell :)
Book of the Month: Room by Emma Donoghue
After looking at a fellow Blogger's post a few months ago I made a point to look out for Room.
Room follows an emotional journey of a young boy and his Mother who have been forever trapped in 'Room' and their escape to freedom. I don't want to give too much away of the story line but I will say I felt so emotionally attached to the characters; they are so believable and skillfully developed by Donoghue- every possible detail was covered magnificently and made me personally explore the meaning of reality and freedom.
Room raises so many 'life' questions and being from a small boy's perspective I think lots of people can relate to such an innocence and simplicity.
Both for adults and teens this book was perfect; I wholeheartedly recommend it and think it deserves every award going!
Enjoy!
Ell :)
Sunday 6 May 2012
Nicholas Sparks
Nicholas Sparks is one of my favourite authors, I love reading his novels and watching the visual versions in his films; so many books of his are now being made/have been made into movies which is great.
One of my favourite is The Last Song- I bought the book in a sale a few years after the film had been released to give it a go, I fell in love with the beautiful imagery and story lines. I've been scouting charity shops and book stores to make a larger collection and now have 9 of his books with many more to collect!
BOOK OF THE MONTH: THE LUCKY ONE by NICHOLAS SPARKSI had 'liked' Nicholas Sparks on facebook and was really glad to see another film was due to be released- The Lucky One - and when I found out Zac Efron was going to be in the movie I decided I'd have to read it and go see it. I was so glad I had!
The book is all about Logan who was on a military tour and found a photograph of a woman- he asked around to see if it belonged to anyone and when nobody claimed it he kept it in his pocket for the rest of the tour- events began to happen and gradually a pattern of safety began to emerge from Logan carrying the photograph- friends told him it was lucky and all about fate, that he should find the girl and thank her when he got out. Logan gradually starts to believe this and travels to find who 'E' (the inscription on the back of the image was 'Keep Safe Love E) is and walks many miles to find her. As they meet he decides to take a job where she works at some kennels and a relationship begins to build between them. However, as with any love story there are complications of an ex-husband and as the story unfolds tensions grow high between them both.
I wouldnt hesitate to recommend the Lucky One to anyone of any age- the novel is stunningly beautiful and equally is the movie- although I favour the novel slightly more!
Ellie xx
One of my favourite is The Last Song- I bought the book in a sale a few years after the film had been released to give it a go, I fell in love with the beautiful imagery and story lines. I've been scouting charity shops and book stores to make a larger collection and now have 9 of his books with many more to collect!
BOOK OF THE MONTH: THE LUCKY ONE by NICHOLAS SPARKSI had 'liked' Nicholas Sparks on facebook and was really glad to see another film was due to be released- The Lucky One - and when I found out Zac Efron was going to be in the movie I decided I'd have to read it and go see it. I was so glad I had!
The book is all about Logan who was on a military tour and found a photograph of a woman- he asked around to see if it belonged to anyone and when nobody claimed it he kept it in his pocket for the rest of the tour- events began to happen and gradually a pattern of safety began to emerge from Logan carrying the photograph- friends told him it was lucky and all about fate, that he should find the girl and thank her when he got out. Logan gradually starts to believe this and travels to find who 'E' (the inscription on the back of the image was 'Keep Safe Love E) is and walks many miles to find her. As they meet he decides to take a job where she works at some kennels and a relationship begins to build between them. However, as with any love story there are complications of an ex-husband and as the story unfolds tensions grow high between them both.
I wouldnt hesitate to recommend the Lucky One to anyone of any age- the novel is stunningly beautiful and equally is the movie- although I favour the novel slightly more!
Ellie xx
Tuesday 1 May 2012
Salmon Fishing in the Yemen
Pinch punch first of the month...
Salmon Fishing in the Yemen by Paul Torday is a compelling and beautiful novel about an idea to put salmon in the Yemen. Dr Jones is convinced it won't work but when he becomes blackmailed into taking the job he begins to embrace it along with his boss (the Sheik) and co-worker Miss Chetwode-Talbot a.k.a Harriet. The novel is made up of a series of diary extracts, letters, emails and interviews that tell the story of events through the eyes of 5/6 characters. As the project is underway the novel tackles some serious issues of loss, stress, divorce and romance but proves that there really is something called faith!
I also recently went to see the film which was also very good but I found as it progressed it differed from the novel entirely! Despite this I would still recommend it- just read the novel first if you are going to!!
Let me know which you prefer/your thoughts on either :)
Ellie xx
Salmon Fishing in the Yemen by Paul Torday is a compelling and beautiful novel about an idea to put salmon in the Yemen. Dr Jones is convinced it won't work but when he becomes blackmailed into taking the job he begins to embrace it along with his boss (the Sheik) and co-worker Miss Chetwode-Talbot a.k.a Harriet. The novel is made up of a series of diary extracts, letters, emails and interviews that tell the story of events through the eyes of 5/6 characters. As the project is underway the novel tackles some serious issues of loss, stress, divorce and romance but proves that there really is something called faith!
I also recently went to see the film which was also very good but I found as it progressed it differed from the novel entirely! Despite this I would still recommend it- just read the novel first if you are going to!!
Let me know which you prefer/your thoughts on either :)
Ellie xx
Monday 9 April 2012
Easter Reads
Hello!
BOOK OF THE MONTH: The Fame Game by Lauren Conrad
After reading Conrad's first series L.A. Candy I was excited when I saw another novel due to be released, browsing in my local Waterstones book store I came across The Fame Game in its lovely black, white and pink hardback cover- I love new books!
Sinking my teeth into this novel was easy considering it had been a while since I read the first series; this book would suit people who have read the previous ones and those who have no idea of the plot.
The Fame Game follows a few characters who are embarking on a journey to stardom after being chosen by producers to be on a reality TV programme. The novel is a fun and lively read and would suit those who enjoy a chick flick... one to recommend to girly girls or those who want a light summer read.
'Style' is another book written by Lauren Conrad but is more to flick through and for those into fashion magazines; including some lovely pictures and I have to say her website/blog are my guilty pleasures too!
I mentioned in a previous blog that my sister and I were reading The Goose Girl by Shannon Hale, well we finally finished it! It was a really enjoyable book about an adventure of a princess on a journey to marry a prince but as they draw nearer to the town she is betrayed by her guard and has to fight for her survival. She manages to get a job looking after the geese (hence the title being Goose Girl) at the palace, in which her maid claims to be the princess, to keep an eye on the situation and to eventually tell the truth to her new kingdom.
This was a really nice book for Lucy and I to bond over, we read a few pages every now and again and it was good wondering what would happen and discussing this together.
Happy Reading and Happy Easter!
Love Ellie xx
BOOK OF THE MONTH: The Fame Game by Lauren Conrad
After reading Conrad's first series L.A. Candy I was excited when I saw another novel due to be released, browsing in my local Waterstones book store I came across The Fame Game in its lovely black, white and pink hardback cover- I love new books!
Sinking my teeth into this novel was easy considering it had been a while since I read the first series; this book would suit people who have read the previous ones and those who have no idea of the plot.
The Fame Game follows a few characters who are embarking on a journey to stardom after being chosen by producers to be on a reality TV programme. The novel is a fun and lively read and would suit those who enjoy a chick flick... one to recommend to girly girls or those who want a light summer read.
'Style' is another book written by Lauren Conrad but is more to flick through and for those into fashion magazines; including some lovely pictures and I have to say her website/blog are my guilty pleasures too!
I mentioned in a previous blog that my sister and I were reading The Goose Girl by Shannon Hale, well we finally finished it! It was a really enjoyable book about an adventure of a princess on a journey to marry a prince but as they draw nearer to the town she is betrayed by her guard and has to fight for her survival. She manages to get a job looking after the geese (hence the title being Goose Girl) at the palace, in which her maid claims to be the princess, to keep an eye on the situation and to eventually tell the truth to her new kingdom.
This was a really nice book for Lucy and I to bond over, we read a few pages every now and again and it was good wondering what would happen and discussing this together.
Happy Reading and Happy Easter!
Love Ellie xx
Wednesday 28 March 2012
Manic March
Hello!
It's been a manic month so far but have managed to do some serious reading! I've gotten into another series of books by Cecily von Ziegesar. A few years ago I got into her series called 'it girl' novels that were extremely addictive-- now I've managed to get hooked again on her insanely popular Gossip Girl novels; I won't be surprised if most of you already know about them!
Gossip Girl is all about a group of teens in high school and their journey through to graduating following the twists and turns of the highs and lows of being rich, perhaps famous and fabulous! I really enjoyed this series and wish there were many more to follow! I may have to stop my Gossip Girl cravings by revisiting the it girl collection!
THE BOOK OF THE MONTH: I mentioned (a few posts ago) an author named Cecelia Ahern. I just finished her latest book called 'The Time of my Life' and I have to report that I really enjoyed it. I absolutely love curling up to a good book in the garden and that is just what this one allowed me to do. The story is set around Lucy and her seemingly troubling life; she is sent a letter in the post asking her to meet her Life but avoids the meeting for as long as possible... eventually she sums up the courage to go and ends up hating Life even more! However as the book progresses the two begin to work together to uncover all of Lucy's lies. Life focuses Lucy so she can face her problems one at a time and eventually correct some of her mistakes and step outside her 'bubble'
The blurb reads ' My life needed me. It was going through a tough time and I hadn't been paying attention to it... And now it had written to me, summoned me, and there was only one thing for it, I had to go and meet it face to face'
Honestly this is such a good concept for a book and is really worth the price (seeing as it is a hardback at the moment) I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it 100 times over.
'A Perfect Ten' by Chris Higgins is all about a student/part time gymnast and her private life at home and tackles some serious issues. I enjoyed this read and flied through it in an afternoon... I would recommend this author to a younger teen/tween but it would also serve well as a summer flick. I'd probably give it 7/10 as its a good story but some of the language was slightly too young for me.
Hope that you're sinking your teeth into a good novel this month, always here if you need a bit of help choosing! Let me know if there is anything you'd like me to review...
Love Ellie :)
It's been a manic month so far but have managed to do some serious reading! I've gotten into another series of books by Cecily von Ziegesar. A few years ago I got into her series called 'it girl' novels that were extremely addictive-- now I've managed to get hooked again on her insanely popular Gossip Girl novels; I won't be surprised if most of you already know about them!
Gossip Girl is all about a group of teens in high school and their journey through to graduating following the twists and turns of the highs and lows of being rich, perhaps famous and fabulous! I really enjoyed this series and wish there were many more to follow! I may have to stop my Gossip Girl cravings by revisiting the it girl collection!
THE BOOK OF THE MONTH: I mentioned (a few posts ago) an author named Cecelia Ahern. I just finished her latest book called 'The Time of my Life' and I have to report that I really enjoyed it. I absolutely love curling up to a good book in the garden and that is just what this one allowed me to do. The story is set around Lucy and her seemingly troubling life; she is sent a letter in the post asking her to meet her Life but avoids the meeting for as long as possible... eventually she sums up the courage to go and ends up hating Life even more! However as the book progresses the two begin to work together to uncover all of Lucy's lies. Life focuses Lucy so she can face her problems one at a time and eventually correct some of her mistakes and step outside her 'bubble'
The blurb reads ' My life needed me. It was going through a tough time and I hadn't been paying attention to it... And now it had written to me, summoned me, and there was only one thing for it, I had to go and meet it face to face'
Honestly this is such a good concept for a book and is really worth the price (seeing as it is a hardback at the moment) I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it 100 times over.
'A Perfect Ten' by Chris Higgins is all about a student/part time gymnast and her private life at home and tackles some serious issues. I enjoyed this read and flied through it in an afternoon... I would recommend this author to a younger teen/tween but it would also serve well as a summer flick. I'd probably give it 7/10 as its a good story but some of the language was slightly too young for me.
Hope that you're sinking your teeth into a good novel this month, always here if you need a bit of help choosing! Let me know if there is anything you'd like me to review...
Love Ellie :)
Monday 6 February 2012
February: Book of the Month
Dear Readers,
I have recently been talking to people about my passion for reading and someone suggested I try the 'A Series of Unfortunate Events' Collection by Lemony Snicket. The books are comprised of 13 novels each with about 200 pages each complete with lovely illustrations; providing an adventure tale between three orphans and their journey to find a new home after their parents death whilst up against their evil uncle Count Olaf.
I am now onto the third in the series and have been really enjoying them! As light-hearted short reads they are perfect for anyone that wants to try and expand their reading material or for those who want to start reading a series/get back into reading again.
The BOOK OF THE MONTH I would like to recommend for February is 'Everything Beautiful' by Simmone Howell. I received this book for Christmas and was so glad I was given it. The story is based on a teenage girl named Riley-Rose who is sent to a Christian camp, despite not believing in God and refusing to go. Riley meets a boy named Dylan at the camp who has recently become disabled among others and challenges the rules and regulations presented to her. It's not your standard 'character goes to camp, finds boy, falls in love, happily ever after ending' but is one in which challenges thoughts and behaviours and for this I found it really powerful.
I really liked the story-line and feel it will appeal to many teenagers, especially girls! The book is just under 300 pages and like the above collection is not particularly challenging but a good read all the same. Let me know what you think....!
Do you have any good reviews you would like to share- Comment below!
Hope to hear from you, E xx
I have recently been talking to people about my passion for reading and someone suggested I try the 'A Series of Unfortunate Events' Collection by Lemony Snicket. The books are comprised of 13 novels each with about 200 pages each complete with lovely illustrations; providing an adventure tale between three orphans and their journey to find a new home after their parents death whilst up against their evil uncle Count Olaf.
I am now onto the third in the series and have been really enjoying them! As light-hearted short reads they are perfect for anyone that wants to try and expand their reading material or for those who want to start reading a series/get back into reading again.
The BOOK OF THE MONTH I would like to recommend for February is 'Everything Beautiful' by Simmone Howell. I received this book for Christmas and was so glad I was given it. The story is based on a teenage girl named Riley-Rose who is sent to a Christian camp, despite not believing in God and refusing to go. Riley meets a boy named Dylan at the camp who has recently become disabled among others and challenges the rules and regulations presented to her. It's not your standard 'character goes to camp, finds boy, falls in love, happily ever after ending' but is one in which challenges thoughts and behaviours and for this I found it really powerful.
I really liked the story-line and feel it will appeal to many teenagers, especially girls! The book is just under 300 pages and like the above collection is not particularly challenging but a good read all the same. Let me know what you think....!
Do you have any good reviews you would like to share- Comment below!
Hope to hear from you, E xx
Wednesday 25 January 2012
Book of The Month- January 2012
Hi Guys,
January's BOOK OF THE MONTH: 'The Help' by Kathryn Stokett
The Help is based in Mississippi, 1962 and tells the story of 3 women living in a town named Jackson. The ladies, two of which are maids (Aibileen & Minny) tell their story and tales of life when racial discrimination was a common occurrence and the third lady, Skeeter, is a budding writer who intends to break tradition and publish accounts of the ladies such as Aibileen & Minny. The tension between the characters as they go against the grain, meet in secret and suffer the consequences of telling their tales is astonishing.
I tried to drag the book on and on because I didn't want to leave the characters behind- isn't it funny how you become attached to some but not others?! Does anybody else find this?
I missed the release of 'The Help' in the cinemas- did anyone see it? I am hoping to watch it as soon as it comes out on DVD. If you have already seen the film I would still urge you to read this book and recommend it to others also, Stockett tells such an incredible and moving story and it is not one to miss!
Anne Cassidy is an author known to many teenagers- I actually discovered her a while ago and met her when she did a talk at my school. I bought a few of her books but never picked one up until last week. 'Love Letters' by Anne Cassidy is not as well known as other titles such as 'Looking for JJ' but I really clicked with the lay-out and story line.
Love Letters is a fast-pased book and follows the life of Vicky who receives a few love letters- mistaking the admirer as her best friend's brother she is over the moon but when Vicky starts to realise who the real secret admirer really is she is less than pleased. Taking matters into her own hands Vicky creates sticky situations if she is to present her case to anyone else... will she ever be taken seriously?
The story is jolting and is no doubt based around many experiences young women and men go through all around the world- if nothing else this book is an eye opener to situations out there that you may never believe would happen and really questions the meaning of relationships and trust.
If I was to score it out of 10 I would give the title 7/10 because I couldn't put it down but was slightly disappointed by the ending and slightly freaked by some of the plot!
'Before I Die' by Jenny Downham is an intense story about a young girl named Tessa struggling to cope with cancer, she creates a list of goals she wants to achieve when she realises she only has a matter of months left to live. Tessa experiences pain, anger, betrayal and honesty and this story follows her journey through it all, alone and with her family and friends; prepare for some tears and a few giggles along the way!
Downham has been able to express such a serious and painful subject with dignity and respect and allows the reader to follow a beautiful and emotional tale. This book isn't just for teenagers, it is for everyone.
Hope you enjoy these selections and branch out next time you are in a bookshop!
Happy Reading,
Ellie xx
January's BOOK OF THE MONTH: 'The Help' by Kathryn Stokett
The Help is based in Mississippi, 1962 and tells the story of 3 women living in a town named Jackson. The ladies, two of which are maids (Aibileen & Minny) tell their story and tales of life when racial discrimination was a common occurrence and the third lady, Skeeter, is a budding writer who intends to break tradition and publish accounts of the ladies such as Aibileen & Minny. The tension between the characters as they go against the grain, meet in secret and suffer the consequences of telling their tales is astonishing.
I tried to drag the book on and on because I didn't want to leave the characters behind- isn't it funny how you become attached to some but not others?! Does anybody else find this?
I missed the release of 'The Help' in the cinemas- did anyone see it? I am hoping to watch it as soon as it comes out on DVD. If you have already seen the film I would still urge you to read this book and recommend it to others also, Stockett tells such an incredible and moving story and it is not one to miss!
Anne Cassidy is an author known to many teenagers- I actually discovered her a while ago and met her when she did a talk at my school. I bought a few of her books but never picked one up until last week. 'Love Letters' by Anne Cassidy is not as well known as other titles such as 'Looking for JJ' but I really clicked with the lay-out and story line.
Love Letters is a fast-pased book and follows the life of Vicky who receives a few love letters- mistaking the admirer as her best friend's brother she is over the moon but when Vicky starts to realise who the real secret admirer really is she is less than pleased. Taking matters into her own hands Vicky creates sticky situations if she is to present her case to anyone else... will she ever be taken seriously?
The story is jolting and is no doubt based around many experiences young women and men go through all around the world- if nothing else this book is an eye opener to situations out there that you may never believe would happen and really questions the meaning of relationships and trust.
If I was to score it out of 10 I would give the title 7/10 because I couldn't put it down but was slightly disappointed by the ending and slightly freaked by some of the plot!
'Before I Die' by Jenny Downham is an intense story about a young girl named Tessa struggling to cope with cancer, she creates a list of goals she wants to achieve when she realises she only has a matter of months left to live. Tessa experiences pain, anger, betrayal and honesty and this story follows her journey through it all, alone and with her family and friends; prepare for some tears and a few giggles along the way!
Downham has been able to express such a serious and painful subject with dignity and respect and allows the reader to follow a beautiful and emotional tale. This book isn't just for teenagers, it is for everyone.
Hope you enjoy these selections and branch out next time you are in a bookshop!
Happy Reading,
Ellie xx
Sunday 1 January 2012
New Year Reads!!
Hello Everyone,
This year my new year’s resolution is to actually update my blogs.. and to read more than 65 books- my total for last year.
The first I want to tell you about is one I am currently reading with my sister and is called The Goose Girl by Shannon Hale. The story is gripping and really powerful, I will let you know my full review once I have finished reading the whole thing. So far... the main character is Princess Anidori who has a connection with animals and a deep routed passion for horses however once she turns 16 she has to leave her village to marry a prince in another town (whom she has never met) and with jealousy rife in the travelling party she comes into conflict and danger. The Independent describes the book as a 'masterpiece' and it also has a lovely cover... definitely one to pick up this year!
Cecelia Ahern is another of my favourite authors, for Christmas I was lucky enough to receive her new book 'The Time of My Life' and hope to sink my teeth into that one soon but for now a lovely tale she wrote a few years back is 'The Gift' which explores magical possibilities, families and friendships- a truly lovely tale. Ahern is a very talented writer and is well worth reading her well known 'P.S. I Love You' which has been made into a film but is a beautiful read. Others I enjoy include 'Where Rainbows End', 'The Book of Tomorrow' and 'A Place Called Here'.
If you fancy an emotional read 'The Lovely Bones' by Alice Sebold is excellent, already a movie, the book explores in so much more depth and detail the awful torment of rape on a family and the afterlife of a victim, the second in the collection is called 'Lucky' and is based on the true ordeal of Sebold- both are an interesting and powerful read.
I may be putting my neck on the line here but I think MY BOOK OF 2011 is 'North of Beautiful' By Justina Chen Headley, a tale that truly touched me. This book was so inspiring and has so many messages in it for every reader- I would recommend this wholeheartedly.
The plot centres around a teen girl named Terra Cooper who was (according to her) unfortunately blessed with a port-wine stain (birthmark) across her face. The novel explores her carefully laid plans being ruined, family tensions and the pressure to be perfect but also a reader can expect to enjoy romance and the meaning of true beauty- A MUST READ!!
I wish you all a Happy & Healthy New Year- Keep Reading,
Love Ellie xx
This year my new year’s resolution is to actually update my blogs.. and to read more than 65 books- my total for last year.
The first I want to tell you about is one I am currently reading with my sister and is called The Goose Girl by Shannon Hale. The story is gripping and really powerful, I will let you know my full review once I have finished reading the whole thing. So far... the main character is Princess Anidori who has a connection with animals and a deep routed passion for horses however once she turns 16 she has to leave her village to marry a prince in another town (whom she has never met) and with jealousy rife in the travelling party she comes into conflict and danger. The Independent describes the book as a 'masterpiece' and it also has a lovely cover... definitely one to pick up this year!
Cecelia Ahern is another of my favourite authors, for Christmas I was lucky enough to receive her new book 'The Time of My Life' and hope to sink my teeth into that one soon but for now a lovely tale she wrote a few years back is 'The Gift' which explores magical possibilities, families and friendships- a truly lovely tale. Ahern is a very talented writer and is well worth reading her well known 'P.S. I Love You' which has been made into a film but is a beautiful read. Others I enjoy include 'Where Rainbows End', 'The Book of Tomorrow' and 'A Place Called Here'.
If you fancy an emotional read 'The Lovely Bones' by Alice Sebold is excellent, already a movie, the book explores in so much more depth and detail the awful torment of rape on a family and the afterlife of a victim, the second in the collection is called 'Lucky' and is based on the true ordeal of Sebold- both are an interesting and powerful read.
I may be putting my neck on the line here but I think MY BOOK OF 2011 is 'North of Beautiful' By Justina Chen Headley, a tale that truly touched me. This book was so inspiring and has so many messages in it for every reader- I would recommend this wholeheartedly.
The plot centres around a teen girl named Terra Cooper who was (according to her) unfortunately blessed with a port-wine stain (birthmark) across her face. The novel explores her carefully laid plans being ruined, family tensions and the pressure to be perfect but also a reader can expect to enjoy romance and the meaning of true beauty- A MUST READ!!
I wish you all a Happy & Healthy New Year- Keep Reading,
Love Ellie xx
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