Feathers

Even though this book was written beautifully, I didn't "get" it at all. I know there was supposed to be some kind of deeper meaning, but it was too hard to dig for. And I felt like the story was just getting started and then the book was over. I guess it makes you look for hope, but I feel like hope is like faith. It is something you have to believe in even when you can't see it.

Mr. Maybe

I have had this book for years, and I love Jane Green's books. But for some reason I kept putting this one off. I guess it is because this was the only Jane Green book I haven't read and I love them so much I didn't want them to be over. This book is more similar to her earlier books about young singles making their ways in life. Libby is looking for love and keeps getting hurt over and over again. Then she falls in love with irresponsible Nick, who will not ever be able to provide the kind of life she wants. Then, why is she so heartbroken when they break up. Then she meets the perfect guy. He's filthy rich, spoils her with gifts, and takes her to all the fanciest restaurants. Does it really matter that she doesn't fancy him that much? I think this is a dilemma a lot of girls face. The security of money vs. the freeness of just getting by.

Catching Fire

The best sequel ever! This book is the sequel to all my student's favorite book, which is The Hunger Games. Katniss is back trying to figure out a way to get back at the Capital. Trying to keep herself and her family alive. SPOILER alert! And yes she is back in the hunger games in a twist so surprising my mouth literally dropped open and I couldn't get it to close. The greatest/worst thing about this book is the ending. Everything and I mean everything is up in the air: love, lives, the future.

Bergdorf Blondes

Going to the opposite side of the country as Celebutantes, this book has very similar issues. Instead of dealing with celebrities, this story is about the socialites of "Manhattan's elite"- the upper east/west, whatever side. They're still getting freebies from the most fabulous designers and going to exclusive beginning of the season sales. Which still confuses me, all the rich people who can afford the clothes/accessories get them for free. Of course, there is a romantic storyline that is maybe a little too coincidental, but still a fun read. It is fun to escape to NYC and hear about a more glamorous life. It leaves you wondering if people really are this self-centered and spoiled.

Anything For a Dog

I loved A Dog's Life, the prequel to this book, so I was so excited to see the story of Squirrel. One couldn't help but want to know what happened to him after reading the first book. This book is told from 3 different characters perspectives:
- Charlie, whose older brother just died
- Henry, who wants a dog more than anything in life
- Squirrel, a stray dog just making his way in life trying not to starve
I couldn't for the life of me figure out how these character were going to connect, but oh boy you're in for a terrific surprise when you do. Everything for a Dog is a short, quick, easy read but still manages to pull on your heartstrings and make you cheer!

Just Ella

Just Ella is the story about what happens to "Cinderella" after she moves to the palace to live "happily ever after." I guess as a child, since I never really thought about Cinderella as an adult, I never considered meeting a prince, dancing with him for one night, and then being in love, and more importantly, living happily ever after to be somewhat of a stretch. That isn't how life happens. Well anyway, let's just say Prince Charming isn't so charming. It fact he is dull and boring. Ella isn't allowed to do anything for herself so she is bored out of her mind. She hates all the rules and the way she is supposed to treat her servants. The real fun begins when Ella realizes she isn't in love with the Prince. The Prince has never not gotten his way- he can't even understand the fact she isn't in love with him. To him love is simply looks.

This book also gives the real story of Cinderella, whose real name is Just Ella. To my disappointment the whole pumpkin turning into a carriage thing didn't happen. There is no such thing as fairy godmothers. And even though I'm an adult and know that, I was a little sad that the author took away that magic. The ending of this book is a cliffhanger- Ella is happy- but as far as the true love part- it isn't there yet. I will defiantly read the next book!

Savvy

Okay book. It is written beautifully, but sometimes I felt all the figurative language made it choppy. Not sure it was worthy of the Newbery Honor Medal. Plot consists of a girl that learns what her "savvy" or special power is on her 13th birthday. Everyone is her family does. There skills lead them on a crazy adventure to see their dad after he is injured in a car accident.

Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life

I loved this book. It's about a boy who is about to turn 13, and he receives a box in the mail from his dead father that he is supposed to open on this 13th birthday. Inside the box is the "meaning of life." But there are 4 missing keys to this box. This is the story of Jeremy and his best friend, Lizzy, searching not only for the keys to the box, but also for the meaning of life. I love the characters! You can't help but fall in love and rout for them. It also has a great message... live everyday to the fullest, like it is your last- really makes you evaluate your own life!

The Leanin Dog

This was one of the books we read for our middle school book club. It was a cute coming of age story about a girl dealing with the loss of her mother and a dog that seems to have been abused before.

The Help

Loved this book!!! It is haunting, but in a good way. I constantly thought about it while I was reading it, and it is still making an impression on me. It really makes you wonder about the choices you would've made, especially here in the South, if you experienced the civil rights movement. It inspires me how much these characters were willing to fight for what they believed considering how dangerous it was. It makes me want to be part of something as big and life-changing as the characters in the book.

The Art of Racing in the Rain

Beginning on the last night of the dog's life, this story never stops. I loved how this book was from the dog's point of view, and how insightful he was! Even though a lot of the racing metaphors went over my head, they tied in well with the story. This story is hearwarming and a tearjerker!

The Magician's Elephant

Very cute, magical story. Same wonderful storytelling you expect from Kate DiCamillo. This story is about believing in magic; that there is purpose in life, a reason behind events. A mysterious elephant appears from a magic trip gone wrong, but ends up bringing a family back together again. I didn't like it at much as Edward Tulane or Despereaux, but definitely worth a read!

Shiver

I LOVED this book!!!!! Just about as close to Twilight as I think a book could possibly come. It's about a girl and a wolf/werewolf and this special connection they have. This book is both sensual and fast paced. Anyone who enjoyed Twilight and needs another fix will love this. It's so funny, in general, I don't like fantasy, but with all these true love fantasy books I'm starting to change my tune- growing as a reader...

Welcome to the World, Baby Girl!

This book is by the same author as Fried Green Tomatoes. I liked this book, but I didn't relate to it very much, so it isn't my favorite. But I do appreciate it for it's story. It's about a girl with a troubled past that she doesn't really understand herself. On her way to rising fame through broadcasting, she finally discovers who she is. I did like the social "norms" that are brought up in the book: the city, the south, and prejudice. It made me think about the way things were and even how they are today... Just people's perceptions in general.

Dune Road

I absolutely love Jane Green's books, and this is no exception. I love how she weaves several stories, while linking them all together. This is probably one of my favorites of her books. The main character gets a divorce and then learns a lot more about love and what is important, which eventually leads her back to where she began. A lot of the book is about family, friends, and forgiveness. And it takes place in the Hamptons, which always makes for a fun story.

The Fixer Upper

This was our July book pick for my book club. It was the perfect summer read. I loved the references to remodeling, since I went through the same type of thing not long ago. The old woman who lived in the house ended up being in love with her dead cousin so she hoarded all her things, which was pretty weird to be honest, but besides that a simple read that I enjoyed.

The Time Traveler's Wife

Hmmmm.... what to say? I loved the concept of this book. It went a little far for me in a couple of areas, but as far as romance goes, wonderful story! Definitely worth my time reading it once. The author is a natural storyteller! I was amazed how the story was woven together!

The Hunger Games

Terrific book for young adults. I don't like this type of genre at all either. It's very violent, but makes you think about war and society in general. Mostly it is a good survival story with a side of romance. I can't wait to read the second book!

You'll Never Nanny in this Town Again

This book is the true story of a nanny in Hollywood. It was fun to see how crazy others lives are and also how normal the extraordinary seem to be. Quick, easy read!

Evermore

Friend recommended me this book saying it was a lot like Twilight. The beginning is so much like Twilight, I almost put it down, but like she promised it quickly became its own story. I've never been that big on fantasy, but I can't help but love these everlasting love stories with the supernatural attached! This was a quick, engaging read that I can't wait to share with my middle school students!

LA Candy

This is Lauren Conrad, aka LC's, first novel. It is about a girl who moves to LA and gets put on a reality show, I know shocking, but for all it is worth she didn't do a half bad job. The writing wasn't exactly great, but surprisingly better than I expected. It was slow at first but eventually I really got into it and I can't wait for the next in the series!

Firefly Lane

Since there really is no other way to explain how I feel right now, I must say this is my favorite book I have ever read. I know I will read it again and again. Where do I begin? This book is FULL of life lessons and things to discuss. It would be perfect to do as a book club. I've read other books like this that follow friends through the good and bad times of life. They're actually one of my favorite types of books, but this story blows by far most of them out of the water. I loved how Kristen Hannah showed the passing of time through pop culture, including war/political events and songs/celebs that were popular during those times. No matter which friend you're more like every woman can see themselves in this book. Each memory that was shared wasn't shown just for the purpose of making the book longer, this book is so well crafted and pieced together. I loved how the beginning and the end tied together. This book is why I read!

Secrets of My Hollywood Life: On Location

I have to say I loved this book too! I think I've found a teenage series that not only my kids will love, but that I love reading too!

Secrets of My Hollywood Life

This is a Hannah Montana like story. A A list young girl wants to know what it will be like to be normal so she dresses up and attends a high school. The best part about this is how modern it is. Mentions of all the stuff I see on E! News. It is written by a girl who has worked for Tabloids so she really knows her stuff. Throughout the book, she tells the secrets of Hollywood life, which are very honest, and create a realistic atmosphere. I think any teenage girl would love these books!

The Sonnet Lover

Okay I'm not a huge fan on sonnets in the first place, so I knew this wasn't going to be my book. The plot was okay and the characters were sorta dull but I'm glad I read it. It was way different from the normal romantic dramadies I read.

Dear John

I don't know how but even when someone doesn't die at the end of Nicholas Sparks' books, I still end up crying. This is the first book of his that I've read in a while that I really loved. I thought it showed true testimony to what true love really is. I'm not sure many people out there understand it in today's world. True love is doing whatever is best for the other person even if it isn't what is best for yourself. In fact it may be the thing that hurts you the most.

The Bachlorette Party

This book is about the equivalent of the movie The Hangover, except it is the girl's version. It's just as racy! My mouth kept dropping open at all the things this crazy night had in store and of course with consequences! A fun, easy summer read!

Remember Me?

I just love Sophie Kinsella's books! This is the perfect romantic comedy about a girl who gets amnesia and wakes up as this new person that she doesn't remember becoming. The new her has all the right things: husband, great job, rocking body, but is amazed at the things she had to give up to become this person. Reminded me a little of the movie 13 going on 30, but the girl can't go back in time and undo what she became.

Life as We Knew It

If you haven't read this book and you are the slightest bit interested in children's literature you must read this book. It is a girl's diary entries that take place when a meteor hits the moon, knocking it off course and changing the Earth forever. Volcanoes, tsunamis, dropping temperatures, etc. happen as families try to survive! Very addicting!

My Sisters Keeper

This is one of the fastest books I have ever read. Not only is it engrossing with its topic, but really well written. It is heavy but I'm certainly glad I read it!

Sloppy Firsts

Wow this book is racy, but also addictive! Very blunt and honest depiction on high school.

The Pilot's Wife

Very good... dark, deep, and moving.... haunting almost. How well can you ever really know a person?

The Off Season

In general, well more than in general, sequels are disappointing. I loved Dairy Queen, but I waited about 6 months before I read its sequel, The Off Season. I devoured this book. I laughed. I cried. I can't wait for the next one. I think these books show the best, true voice, of a teenager of any books I have EVER read. I feel like DJ is my best friend!!!

Roommates

A wonderful beach read- California sun, friendship and of course romance is mixed in with a girl living with some, well lets just say interesting, roommates.

Kneeknock Rise

Nattlie Babbit's books always make you want more. There is always some underlying question at the end, which makes them great for literature circles. This book is no exception. Not only was it full of adventure, it really had a deeper meaning and gave me alot to think about afterwards.

Dewey

I'm not a cat person at all, but this is a great book. It also deals with the town on Spencer, Ohio, how it has changed and grown over the years. It is almost a book about small towns that just happens to have a famous library cat. I would best describe it as the Marley and Me cat book.

Impossible

I was told this was the book for Twilight lovers. And while nothing can compare with the Twilight books for me, I really loved this book. It is going on my keeper shelf. It was a slower read at first, but once it took off I couldn't put it down!! I will definitely read this again!

Alabama Moon

This book reminded me of Hatchet, but better. I LOVED it!!!! I would read this aloud to my students/kids!!! Very deep and adventurous! I couldn't put it down!

The Pre-nup

I enjoyed this book. A fun adventure of three different women. Not completely believable but fun to read!

Fashionably Late

I was a little disappointed in this. Too easy, not much depth...

As Seen on TV

Cute story about a girl who gets on reality TV and becomes the person she never wanted to be. An interesting take on celebrity (or trying to become one)

Good in Bed

This was the 3rd book my book club read. It was very cute and I related to a lot parts in it. (body image)

#4 One Fifth Avenue

An interesting and adventurous ride into Manhattan's elite social society.
***

The Willoughbys

Very cute children's book that is a parody of other famous children's books about orphans. I loved the references and comparisons to the classics.

The Friday Night Knitting Club

For a great story about life and friendship this is perfection. I hold it right up there with Angry Housewives Eating Bon Bons, Fried Green Tomatoes, Steel Magnolias, and Beaches! Could I say more?

The Next Thing On my List

I loved this book!!! It is definitely going on my keeper shelf and will be read again! It really inspired me for the new year. I'm tired of not truly living my life- you know just going through the motions. I am going to make a list of 10 things to do before my 30th birthday and I am going to do it!!

Chasing Harry Winston

I feel bad giving this review because I love the author's first two books (The Devil Wears Prada and Everyone Worth Knowing), but I just could not get into this book. I bought it the week it came out, and to be honest I probably wouldn't have finished it if it weren't for one of my friends picking it as our December book club selection. The characters are unbelievable and the ending just doesn't connect with the beginning. I was especially sad about Emmy- she sets off wanting to do nothing more than get married and have babies then decides to have some one night stands, esjoys that for about a second, then ends with going to the gyno. and wanting to know if her eggs are still fertile, and I'm sorry but her original boyfriend coming back to her and wanting to be with her and then her saying no was very predictable. I really was dissatisfied with all the characters progression through the story...