I did it! Back in January I signed up for the #50BookPledge as promoted by @SavvyReader. I thought at the time I was going to zoom through the books and be more then done by mid year. The next thing I knew it was summer and things slowed down a fair bit the vacations and entertaining my daughter. As September started I thought I was going to be hard pressed to keep going and meet the goal set 9 months earlier, especially since I had shifted my focus from reading to working on my family history and searching for work. However, I'm very pleased to say that I reached my goal of 50 books read in 2012, but I doubt I'll sign up for next year. If reading children's books count, then I've probably read a couple hundred more.
Book 50 Cyndi Lauper A Memoir by Cyndi Lauper with Jancee Dunn from Simon and Schuster 2012.
Loved this book to pieces. Found that it flowed very well and I was able to relate to the story. There are several references to Cyndi playing a dulcimer which I find absolutely fantastic as my daughter is learning to play one now. Some of the references to other artists were very intriguing especially when Canadians are mentioned.
Showing posts with label #50bookpledge. Show all posts
Showing posts with label #50bookpledge. Show all posts
Monday, November 5, 2012
Sunday, October 21, 2012
#50BookPledge Book 49 What's for Lunch
Book 49 is What's for Lunch?How Schoolchildren Eat Around the World by Andrea Curtis from Red Deer Press 2012
This is a Canadian book about the assorted types and locations of school lunches around the world. It also looks at how children, families, communities and governments are working to make nutritious lunches available to all.
I really enjoyed the book which was an easy and short read. It would have been nice to read about more scenarios, but that may have been overwhelming. I don't think Miss R is ready for this book yet, but in a few years it will be helpful when she stops eating her school lunches.
Congratulations Ms Curtis for opening our eyes to how others live.
This is a Canadian book about the assorted types and locations of school lunches around the world. It also looks at how children, families, communities and governments are working to make nutritious lunches available to all.
I really enjoyed the book which was an easy and short read. It would have been nice to read about more scenarios, but that may have been overwhelming. I don't think Miss R is ready for this book yet, but in a few years it will be helpful when she stops eating her school lunches.
Congratulations Ms Curtis for opening our eyes to how others live.
Friday, September 7, 2012
#50BookPledge Books 43 & 44 - Bringing Up Bebe & Beautiful Ruins
I'm reviewing books 43 and 44 in the same post because I can and not because there is a common theme.
Book 43 was Bringing Up Bebe by Pamela Druckerman from Penguin Press 2012.
As you may or may not know I like to read parenting books especially those about different styles as we try to mold Miss R into a well rounded individual. In a lot of ways I found that Bringing Up Bebe reflected a lot of the techniques that my parents used raising me and could really relate to them. While I don't necessarily agree with everything in Druckerman's book there are definitely ideas that I can use in my own home. The book moves along at a fairly quick pace and does a lot of compare and contrast between what the author sees living in France and what she sees when visiting family in the United States. She also makes it clear that neither style is necessarily right or wrong but there are good attributes in both. What I really see is that France uses more of the Village approach while North Americans tend to be much more insular. Worth the read and I know it is making an impact in our home.
Book 44 was Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter from Harper Collins 2012.
I loved this book, actually wasn't able to put it down. All of the characters, the scenery and the flow of the story just made it that much more wonderful. My apologies to the author but I originally thought Beautiful Ruins was written by a woman and was pleasantly surprised to find out it was a man. The novel spans a large period of time, but is done in such a manner that you don't get lost but are drawn in. My rating for this book is 5 out of 5.
Book 43 was Bringing Up Bebe by Pamela Druckerman from Penguin Press 2012.
As you may or may not know I like to read parenting books especially those about different styles as we try to mold Miss R into a well rounded individual. In a lot of ways I found that Bringing Up Bebe reflected a lot of the techniques that my parents used raising me and could really relate to them. While I don't necessarily agree with everything in Druckerman's book there are definitely ideas that I can use in my own home. The book moves along at a fairly quick pace and does a lot of compare and contrast between what the author sees living in France and what she sees when visiting family in the United States. She also makes it clear that neither style is necessarily right or wrong but there are good attributes in both. What I really see is that France uses more of the Village approach while North Americans tend to be much more insular. Worth the read and I know it is making an impact in our home.
Book 44 was Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter from Harper Collins 2012.
I loved this book, actually wasn't able to put it down. All of the characters, the scenery and the flow of the story just made it that much more wonderful. My apologies to the author but I originally thought Beautiful Ruins was written by a woman and was pleasantly surprised to find out it was a man. The novel spans a large period of time, but is done in such a manner that you don't get lost but are drawn in. My rating for this book is 5 out of 5.
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
#50BookPledge Book 42 The Night Circus
I'm surprised. My 50 book challenge while slowing down during the summer has still moved fairly well. I think YMBC and the endless pile of books in my bedroom is the encouragement I needed. Book 42 The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern from Doubleday Canada was a departure as I read it on my Kobo which was a nice change.
The Night Circus is a fun book. I won't say it is a book that I couldn't put down, but I was always ready to pick it back up. Due to my summer schedule it wasn't uncommon to be away from the book for a couple of days and I am happy to say I didn't feel the need to reread anything making it really easy to keep moving forward. Marco and Celia are both interesting characters who would probably be considered somewhat mistreated by today's standards.
I loved the circus as the playground for a very complex, nonspecific challenge to occur as well as the nursery for a deep abiding love to develop. I found all of the characters to have multiple layers making them much believable. It is curious to me how Poppet was able to predict the future of the circus while Celia believes her with no real questions asked.
The Night Circus is a wonderful read and I am thrilled that Marco & Celia get what they want and deserve at the end of the book. It is really too bad that their parents/teachers let their egos ruin the lives of these two dynamic people.
The Night Circus is a fun book. I won't say it is a book that I couldn't put down, but I was always ready to pick it back up. Due to my summer schedule it wasn't uncommon to be away from the book for a couple of days and I am happy to say I didn't feel the need to reread anything making it really easy to keep moving forward. Marco and Celia are both interesting characters who would probably be considered somewhat mistreated by today's standards.
I loved the circus as the playground for a very complex, nonspecific challenge to occur as well as the nursery for a deep abiding love to develop. I found all of the characters to have multiple layers making them much believable. It is curious to me how Poppet was able to predict the future of the circus while Celia believes her with no real questions asked.
The Night Circus is a wonderful read and I am thrilled that Marco & Celia get what they want and deserve at the end of the book. It is really too bad that their parents/teachers let their egos ruin the lives of these two dynamic people.
Friday, August 3, 2012
#50BookPledge Book 41 Next Best Thing
The Next Best Thing: A Novel by Jennifer Weiner from Atria Books 2012
I've read one of Ms Weiner's books before and must say this one was much different. I enjoyed the book and character development. The way Ruth's story is told in this novel maybe confusing for some but I liked the mini flashbacks, that were about a chapter in length each. By working with the story which happens after Ruth moves to Hollywood and gets her dream writing job, we get glimpses into how Ruth got to that point.
I applaud Ms Weiner for working with main characters that have physical flaws and seeing those characters "win" in the end. She tries very hard to have Ruth's story, as Ruth writes it for her TV, echo parts of Ruth's real life. Ruth's ability to stick to her guns and get what she wants in the end makes for a perfect story.
A great summer beach read.
I've read one of Ms Weiner's books before and must say this one was much different. I enjoyed the book and character development. The way Ruth's story is told in this novel maybe confusing for some but I liked the mini flashbacks, that were about a chapter in length each. By working with the story which happens after Ruth moves to Hollywood and gets her dream writing job, we get glimpses into how Ruth got to that point.
I applaud Ms Weiner for working with main characters that have physical flaws and seeing those characters "win" in the end. She tries very hard to have Ruth's story, as Ruth writes it for her TV, echo parts of Ruth's real life. Ruth's ability to stick to her guns and get what she wants in the end makes for a perfect story.
A great summer beach read.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
#50BookPledge Book 40 Ecoholic Body
Ecoholic Body: Your Ultimate Earth Friendly Guide to Living Healthy and Looking Good by Adria Vasil from Random House Canada 2012
Love all of the Ecoholic books and this one is no exception. I am always looking for ways to tweak things in my life so that we as a family are encountering fewer man-made products and Adria's books provide the answers I'm looking for. Ecoholic Body is a great book focused mainly on the body, inside and out. Granted it took me a couple of months to read the entire book it will now become a reference and has already provided some information on Sunscreen for my daughter and asthma therapy for my mom.
Admittedly I'm not as "Green" as I would like to be and therefore far from as "Green" as Adria is, this book doesn't necessarily make me feel bad but rather educates. I've always been weary of what I'm giving my daughter but never consciously considered myself. This statement is in keeping with Adria's comment that new parents are more eco conscious then many others.
As I said I loved this book, will be keeping it as a reference and if you are looking for a Canadian Resource for living a more Eco friendly lifestyle then this book is for you.
Thanks Adria!
Love all of the Ecoholic books and this one is no exception. I am always looking for ways to tweak things in my life so that we as a family are encountering fewer man-made products and Adria's books provide the answers I'm looking for. Ecoholic Body is a great book focused mainly on the body, inside and out. Granted it took me a couple of months to read the entire book it will now become a reference and has already provided some information on Sunscreen for my daughter and asthma therapy for my mom.
Admittedly I'm not as "Green" as I would like to be and therefore far from as "Green" as Adria is, this book doesn't necessarily make me feel bad but rather educates. I've always been weary of what I'm giving my daughter but never consciously considered myself. This statement is in keeping with Adria's comment that new parents are more eco conscious then many others.
As I said I loved this book, will be keeping it as a reference and if you are looking for a Canadian Resource for living a more Eco friendly lifestyle then this book is for you.
Thanks Adria!
#50BookPledge Book 39 Confined Space
Confined Space by Deryn Collier from Simon and Schuster 2012
Wow talk about using metaphors! Confined Space is filled with them starting with the title. These metaphors have created a highly layered and intriguing book. I especially enjoyed how Deryn parallels the activities in the mystery with the life cycle of the inconspicuous tomato.
Deryn's characters have many layers making for several well developed main and secondary characters however some of the more minor characters are extraneous to the story. I also had a hard time dealing with the secondary story from Berm's life as a soldier and the court marshal.
Deryn obviously did a great deal of research while writing Confined Space creating a mystery that you don't want to put down. I'm pretty sure you'll be surprised by the ending of the novel because at least for me the ultimate villain was completely unexpected.
Wow talk about using metaphors! Confined Space is filled with them starting with the title. These metaphors have created a highly layered and intriguing book. I especially enjoyed how Deryn parallels the activities in the mystery with the life cycle of the inconspicuous tomato.
Deryn's characters have many layers making for several well developed main and secondary characters however some of the more minor characters are extraneous to the story. I also had a hard time dealing with the secondary story from Berm's life as a soldier and the court marshal.
Deryn obviously did a great deal of research while writing Confined Space creating a mystery that you don't want to put down. I'm pretty sure you'll be surprised by the ending of the novel because at least for me the ultimate villain was completely unexpected.
Sunday, July 29, 2012
#50BookPledge Book 38 Drop Dead Healthy
Drop Dead Healthy by A.J. Jacobs from Simon and Schuster 2012
What can I tell you about this book or AJ Jacobs well a fair bit. I found Drop Dead Healthy to be a very well written book that was easy to read and provided a new perspective on the myriad of health information we are bombarded with from media sources.
When you read Jacob's book you'll find a lot of what e is talking about is based on common sense but at the same time he is realistic. Jacobs reiterates numerous times throughout Drop Dead Healthy that the science supporting a number of healthy living steps is inconclusive at best and sometimes in conflict with studies on another part of the body or diseases.
I liked that AJ was honest through the 27 chapters and brought the book full circle with the Epilogue. He doesn't try to convert you to his "temporary" style of living not does he say he is going to keep it all up, but rather highlights what works best for him. Jacobs ultimate message it that we all can live a healthier life but a longer life because life happens.
I found Drop Dead Healthy informative and have added it to my husband's growing pile of books. Definitely worth the read for me and it has given me some inspiration.
What can I tell you about this book or AJ Jacobs well a fair bit. I found Drop Dead Healthy to be a very well written book that was easy to read and provided a new perspective on the myriad of health information we are bombarded with from media sources.
When you read Jacob's book you'll find a lot of what e is talking about is based on common sense but at the same time he is realistic. Jacobs reiterates numerous times throughout Drop Dead Healthy that the science supporting a number of healthy living steps is inconclusive at best and sometimes in conflict with studies on another part of the body or diseases.
I liked that AJ was honest through the 27 chapters and brought the book full circle with the Epilogue. He doesn't try to convert you to his "temporary" style of living not does he say he is going to keep it all up, but rather highlights what works best for him. Jacobs ultimate message it that we all can live a healthier life but a longer life because life happens.
I found Drop Dead Healthy informative and have added it to my husband's growing pile of books. Definitely worth the read for me and it has given me some inspiration.
Friday, July 27, 2012
#50BookPledge Lone Wolf
The Lone Wolf by Jodi Picoult from Emily Bestler Books 2012
I feel frustrated having read this novel! The Lone Wolf was lent to me by a friend that often times has similar reading preferences so there was an immediate expectation that I would like it, but sadly it wasn't the case.
I like Picoult's method of story telling where each of the main characters has their own chapters to state their side of things while still moving the story forward. This was generally the case in the Lone Wolf, in fact I found Luke's chapters unnecessary. While I understand the need to develop strong characters I fond Lone Wolf progress too slow for my liking and I lost interest in it.
So a bit more forward movement by Picoult or more back story is my preference. As a result I give Lone Wolf 3 out of 5 starts.
I feel frustrated having read this novel! The Lone Wolf was lent to me by a friend that often times has similar reading preferences so there was an immediate expectation that I would like it, but sadly it wasn't the case.
I like Picoult's method of story telling where each of the main characters has their own chapters to state their side of things while still moving the story forward. This was generally the case in the Lone Wolf, in fact I found Luke's chapters unnecessary. While I understand the need to develop strong characters I fond Lone Wolf progress too slow for my liking and I lost interest in it.
So a bit more forward movement by Picoult or more back story is my preference. As a result I give Lone Wolf 3 out of 5 starts.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
#50BookPledge Book 36 Vaclav and Lena
Before I start on this post let me first say that it is easier to write reviews immediately after reading a book rather than waiting until you have time.
Vaclav and Lena by Haley Tanner from Vintage Canada 2012
Vaclav and Lena is a very interesting book on so many levels. When one first starts reading it you might expect it to be a young adult/coming of age book but it is so much more and requires a lot of attention to the story. There are so many layers of to the story and to the characters covering everything from immigration to adoption to fitting in to abuse to growing up. I greatly appreciate Ms Tanner's ability to stay true to her characters by writing them in English as a Second Language text especially in the early chapters. While I found the ESL dialogue difficult at times it really does help to establish the characters. On top of that Vaclav and Lena both lose their Russian accent as they grow into what Rasia deems "American Teenagers."
Vaclav, the male lead in this book seems like a very normal individual with a strong relationship with his mother Rasia. He also shows that love at first site happens and doesn't disappear just because that person is no longer in your life. I commend Vaclav on his desire to help/protect Lena while finding out the truth about her past without requiring her to face the history directly.
I really felt for Lena, the female lead, because even though it isn't explicitly stated until near the end of the book, you know that something bad is happening to her. Lena turns out, or so it seems, to be a very well adjusted young lady until her secret is revealed to her and those around her. Lucky for her she has people around to help her including Emily who she calls her Real Mom, Rasia - Vaclav's mom and even though it doesn't initially seem that way her Aunt Ekaterina who tries to shelter her from the seedy world that she was a part of thanks to her method of immigration.
Vaclav and Lena is a book that will take you time to read and make you think about what you are reading, but it is worth reading because you will grow as a result.
Vaclav and Lena by Haley Tanner from Vintage Canada 2012
Vaclav and Lena is a very interesting book on so many levels. When one first starts reading it you might expect it to be a young adult/coming of age book but it is so much more and requires a lot of attention to the story. There are so many layers of to the story and to the characters covering everything from immigration to adoption to fitting in to abuse to growing up. I greatly appreciate Ms Tanner's ability to stay true to her characters by writing them in English as a Second Language text especially in the early chapters. While I found the ESL dialogue difficult at times it really does help to establish the characters. On top of that Vaclav and Lena both lose their Russian accent as they grow into what Rasia deems "American Teenagers."
Vaclav, the male lead in this book seems like a very normal individual with a strong relationship with his mother Rasia. He also shows that love at first site happens and doesn't disappear just because that person is no longer in your life. I commend Vaclav on his desire to help/protect Lena while finding out the truth about her past without requiring her to face the history directly.
I really felt for Lena, the female lead, because even though it isn't explicitly stated until near the end of the book, you know that something bad is happening to her. Lena turns out, or so it seems, to be a very well adjusted young lady until her secret is revealed to her and those around her. Lucky for her she has people around to help her including Emily who she calls her Real Mom, Rasia - Vaclav's mom and even though it doesn't initially seem that way her Aunt Ekaterina who tries to shelter her from the seedy world that she was a part of thanks to her method of immigration.
Vaclav and Lena is a book that will take you time to read and make you think about what you are reading, but it is worth reading because you will grow as a result.
Friday, June 15, 2012
#50BookPledge Book 35 French Kids Eat Everything
French Kids Eat Everything (and yours can too) by Karen Le Billon from Harper Collins 2012
I'm always looking for ways to get Miss R to eat better, even though most of my friends and the family doctor don't think she's picky. By reading Karen's book I've discovered that Miss R maybe isn't much different then most of her peers, but that doesn't mean things can't change.
French Kids Eat Everything presents things in such a way that it is easy to see where the two cultures, North American and French, are different when it comes to approaches to food. I read the book and started to implement some of the suggestions immediately. It was a huge surprise to mean just how well using fixed times for snacks works.
The thing that really got my attention in this book was Chapter 9 when the family returns to Vancouver from France only to find out that the French method of eating may not work in all situations and adaption will be required to fit into your unique circumstances.
I have marked the last chapter of for my husband to read because it summarizes the rules and hope to try some of the recipes very soon. I also plan on posting my version of the rules somewhere near my kitchen to remind me what I'm trying to accomplish for the entire family.
Hopefully Karen's book is read by the right people to make changes in our school systems so our children don't continue to rush through their lunches just so they can be hungry a couple hours later.
Thank you Karen for showing me that I can get my child to eat better/more without driving myself crazy.
I'm always looking for ways to get Miss R to eat better, even though most of my friends and the family doctor don't think she's picky. By reading Karen's book I've discovered that Miss R maybe isn't much different then most of her peers, but that doesn't mean things can't change.
French Kids Eat Everything presents things in such a way that it is easy to see where the two cultures, North American and French, are different when it comes to approaches to food. I read the book and started to implement some of the suggestions immediately. It was a huge surprise to mean just how well using fixed times for snacks works.
The thing that really got my attention in this book was Chapter 9 when the family returns to Vancouver from France only to find out that the French method of eating may not work in all situations and adaption will be required to fit into your unique circumstances.
I have marked the last chapter of for my husband to read because it summarizes the rules and hope to try some of the recipes very soon. I also plan on posting my version of the rules somewhere near my kitchen to remind me what I'm trying to accomplish for the entire family.
Hopefully Karen's book is read by the right people to make changes in our school systems so our children don't continue to rush through their lunches just so they can be hungry a couple hours later.
Thank you Karen for showing me that I can get my child to eat better/more without driving myself crazy.
Sunday, June 10, 2012
#50BookPledge Book 34 The Naughty Bucket List
The Naughty Bucket List by Kourtney Jason from Amorata Press 2011
For someone considered conservative, old fashioned and unadventurous this book was a real stretch for me. The book offers 369 suggestions to make your love life much spicier. Some of the suggestions had merit and I'm certain I'll try them if I haven't already. There were several that weren't for me though and went against my morals like the suggestion of having a one night stand. There are several that are yeah maybe and an equal number of probably not. Regardless of your view thought The Naughty Bucket List will provide some useful suggestions for your love life. The book is an easy read and the suggests are just ideas, not a how to. Even though not everything works for everyone,it is worth at minimum a quick skim.
For someone considered conservative, old fashioned and unadventurous this book was a real stretch for me. The book offers 369 suggestions to make your love life much spicier. Some of the suggestions had merit and I'm certain I'll try them if I haven't already. There were several that weren't for me though and went against my morals like the suggestion of having a one night stand. There are several that are yeah maybe and an equal number of probably not. Regardless of your view thought The Naughty Bucket List will provide some useful suggestions for your love life. The book is an easy read and the suggests are just ideas, not a how to. Even though not everything works for everyone,it is worth at minimum a quick skim.
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
#50BookPledge Book 33 The Beggar's Opera
The Beggar's Opera by Peggy Blair from Penguin Canada 2012
I was completely drawn into this book, a phenomenal piece of Canadian fiction. Mrs Blair does a fantastic job of developing the setting both in Havana Cuba and the secondary location of Ottawa. As you read the description you can visualize all aspects of Old Havana and almost taste the Christmas dinner at Inspector Ramirez home.
Mrs. Blair doesn't stop with the setting, but develops all of her characters whether major or minor. I was able to picture Celia Jones and Michael Ellis. It was easy to keep the characters straight, feel the pain of the characters, understand how Detective Rodriguez turned into the person he became, and even relate to the uniqueness of Maria.
The Beggar's Opera was a book I didn't want to put down but I didn't rush through either as I was afraid of missing a key piece of the story. Definitely worth your time to read and I am looking forward to more books from this author.
I was completely drawn into this book, a phenomenal piece of Canadian fiction. Mrs Blair does a fantastic job of developing the setting both in Havana Cuba and the secondary location of Ottawa. As you read the description you can visualize all aspects of Old Havana and almost taste the Christmas dinner at Inspector Ramirez home.
Mrs. Blair doesn't stop with the setting, but develops all of her characters whether major or minor. I was able to picture Celia Jones and Michael Ellis. It was easy to keep the characters straight, feel the pain of the characters, understand how Detective Rodriguez turned into the person he became, and even relate to the uniqueness of Maria.
The Beggar's Opera was a book I didn't want to put down but I didn't rush through either as I was afraid of missing a key piece of the story. Definitely worth your time to read and I am looking forward to more books from this author.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
#50BookPledge Book 32 The Proposal and Solid Soul
The Proposal and Solid Soul by Brenda Jackson from Harlequin Desire 2010 (2 books in one).
This was my second time reading a Brenda Jackson book and a much more enjoyable experience.
The Proposal is the romance of Elizabeth (Bella) Bostwick, who is trying to get out from under her parents thumb, and Jason Westmoreland, a horse breeder. The story starts with Bella moving away from her parents to start a new life. She meets the hero of the story and after a few misunderstanding they fall in love. There are forces at work to keep them apart like her great uncle and his grandkids as well as her parents. However, Jason's family fully supports their relationship. After a few tense chapters where Bella's house is vandalized then set ablaze Bella agrees to marriage. Of course there is more misunderstanding that disappear when Jason declares his love for Bella. Then they go on to live happily ever after. I recommend buying separately from Solid Soul.
Solid Soul is the second book and I just skimmed it as the first chapter was about two scheming teenagers trying to match up their parents didn't appeal to me. Of course the teens are successful ad the parents agree to marry which ultimately makes it hard for the teens to act on their feelings.
This was my second time reading a Brenda Jackson book and a much more enjoyable experience.
The Proposal is the romance of Elizabeth (Bella) Bostwick, who is trying to get out from under her parents thumb, and Jason Westmoreland, a horse breeder. The story starts with Bella moving away from her parents to start a new life. She meets the hero of the story and after a few misunderstanding they fall in love. There are forces at work to keep them apart like her great uncle and his grandkids as well as her parents. However, Jason's family fully supports their relationship. After a few tense chapters where Bella's house is vandalized then set ablaze Bella agrees to marriage. Of course there is more misunderstanding that disappear when Jason declares his love for Bella. Then they go on to live happily ever after. I recommend buying separately from Solid Soul.
Solid Soul is the second book and I just skimmed it as the first chapter was about two scheming teenagers trying to match up their parents didn't appeal to me. Of course the teens are successful ad the parents agree to marry which ultimately makes it hard for the teens to act on their feelings.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
#50BookPledge In The Doctor's Bed Book 31
In The Doctor's Bed by Brenda Jackson from Kimani Romance 2011
I don't mind an easy read romance novel every once in awhile but I was really disappointed in this one. Not only did this book follow the very predictable Harlequin formula, I found the need to remind the reader constantly that this was an Afro American couple very annoying. I read a lot and honestly couldn't careless about the characters race. This novel did absolutely nothing for me and made me wonder if I would want to read other books by this author. I agree that description and settings are needed to develop a storyline but I don't need a recap every chapter. 1 out of 5 at best.
I don't mind an easy read romance novel every once in awhile but I was really disappointed in this one. Not only did this book follow the very predictable Harlequin formula, I found the need to remind the reader constantly that this was an Afro American couple very annoying. I read a lot and honestly couldn't careless about the characters race. This novel did absolutely nothing for me and made me wonder if I would want to read other books by this author. I agree that description and settings are needed to develop a storyline but I don't need a recap every chapter. 1 out of 5 at best.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
#50BookPledge Book 30 Ain't Misbehavin'
Ain't Misbehavin' by Alyson Schafer from Wiley and Sons Canada 2011
Ain't Misbehavin' is the latest of Alyson Schafer's parenting books. Unlike the other 2 books, this one is filled with solutions or suggestions to deal with different behaviours parents encounter on a regular basis. Ain't Misbehavin' groups behaviours by type covering everything from the bedroom to school to sibling rivalry to extra curricular activities. This books need not be read from start to finish if there is an area you really want to challenges in but I recommend reading all of it. Alyson offers suggestions for dealing for with the behaviour when it happens and solution to work towards at reducing and often eliminating unwanted reactions. I really enjoyed the book and am finding Alyson's tips are making life in my home less confrontational even though the gist of it is Mommy Butt Out and that is hard to do after five years. I am a firm believer in having as many tools as you need to keep your family functioning well and Ain't Misbehavin' has found a permanent home in my family library. The concepts are consistent throughout the book and even if you encounter a situation not specifically covered, you can use the techniques explained to work on a solution. Thanks again Alyson.
Ain't Misbehavin' is the latest of Alyson Schafer's parenting books. Unlike the other 2 books, this one is filled with solutions or suggestions to deal with different behaviours parents encounter on a regular basis. Ain't Misbehavin' groups behaviours by type covering everything from the bedroom to school to sibling rivalry to extra curricular activities. This books need not be read from start to finish if there is an area you really want to challenges in but I recommend reading all of it. Alyson offers suggestions for dealing for with the behaviour when it happens and solution to work towards at reducing and often eliminating unwanted reactions. I really enjoyed the book and am finding Alyson's tips are making life in my home less confrontational even though the gist of it is Mommy Butt Out and that is hard to do after five years. I am a firm believer in having as many tools as you need to keep your family functioning well and Ain't Misbehavin' has found a permanent home in my family library. The concepts are consistent throughout the book and even if you encounter a situation not specifically covered, you can use the techniques explained to work on a solution. Thanks again Alyson.
Monday, May 7, 2012
#50BookPledge Book 29 The Wealthy Barber Returns
The Wealthy Barber Returns by David Chilton From Financial Awareness Press 2011
This book was very different from the original book. Chilton's wit shines throughout the book resulting in messages that are easy to understand when it comes to managing one's finances. I missed the story aspect of the original Wealthy Barber, but enjoyed The Wealthy Barber Returns all the same. I like that there aren't a lot of equations and math but rather good old fashioned common sense in the book. I tend think I'm pretty good with finances but even I learned a thing or two while reading as was definitely reminded of a few things I know I should be doing! If your are looking for an easy, non condescending way to find out what you can do to get your finances on track this is the book for you.
This book was very different from the original book. Chilton's wit shines throughout the book resulting in messages that are easy to understand when it comes to managing one's finances. I missed the story aspect of the original Wealthy Barber, but enjoyed The Wealthy Barber Returns all the same. I like that there aren't a lot of equations and math but rather good old fashioned common sense in the book. I tend think I'm pretty good with finances but even I learned a thing or two while reading as was definitely reminded of a few things I know I should be doing! If your are looking for an easy, non condescending way to find out what you can do to get your finances on track this is the book for you.
Friday, April 27, 2012
#50BookPledge Book 28 Honey, I Wrecked the Kids
Honey,
I Wrecked the Kids: When Yelling, Screaming, Threats, Bribes,
Time-Outs, Sticker Charts and Removing Privileges All Don't Work by Alyson Schafer from Wiley Canada
I'm always looking for new/additional methods for nurturing my daughter and make sure we aren't getting into never ending battles. This book was an eye-opening read as Alyson seemed to have insight into what is happening in my family/my head. One of the challenges Alyson presents is to go a week without saying no to your child. This is something I'm tackling and must admit not doing well with, but I plan to stick with it because when I get it right it makes life much easier. What I like in particular about Alyson's writing is that she is writing from experience since she is a parent and lived the style of parenting she's promoting for her life. Honey, I Wrecked the Kids: When Yelling, Screaming, Threats, Bribes, Time-Outs, Sticker Charts and removing Privileges All Don't Work is having a positive impact on my family.
I'm always looking for new/additional methods for nurturing my daughter and make sure we aren't getting into never ending battles. This book was an eye-opening read as Alyson seemed to have insight into what is happening in my family/my head. One of the challenges Alyson presents is to go a week without saying no to your child. This is something I'm tackling and must admit not doing well with, but I plan to stick with it because when I get it right it makes life much easier. What I like in particular about Alyson's writing is that she is writing from experience since she is a parent and lived the style of parenting she's promoting for her life. Honey, I Wrecked the Kids: When Yelling, Screaming, Threats, Bribes, Time-Outs, Sticker Charts and removing Privileges All Don't Work is having a positive impact on my family.
Friday, April 13, 2012
#50BookPledge Book 27 Breaking the Good Mom Myth
Breaking the Good Mom Myth by Alyson Schafer from John Wiley & Sons 2006
I really enjoyed this book, probably because it was written by a mom and she admits she sometimes has to regroup. I've read a number of parenting books over the last four years and this is by far one of the better ones. It tackles real life situations, giving you alternatives to what current society expects. The solutions offered when reviewed carefully are good old common sense and initially leave you wondering "why didn't I think of that?" My biggest take away was that I don't need to be like every other mom on the block and really shouldn't try to be, but instead be realistic with expectations of both self and child. Well worth a 4 out of 5 review.
I really enjoyed this book, probably because it was written by a mom and she admits she sometimes has to regroup. I've read a number of parenting books over the last four years and this is by far one of the better ones. It tackles real life situations, giving you alternatives to what current society expects. The solutions offered when reviewed carefully are good old common sense and initially leave you wondering "why didn't I think of that?" My biggest take away was that I don't need to be like every other mom on the block and really shouldn't try to be, but instead be realistic with expectations of both self and child. Well worth a 4 out of 5 review.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
#50BookPledge Book #26 Zen & the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance
Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert M. Pirsig from Renaissance Audio 1999.
Not necessarily my cup of tea but an interesting book overall. It didn't take me long to realize that the motorcycle maintenance was a metaphor used throughout the book to help weave the themes together. The content wasn't something I really paid much attention to but was very interested in the story of a father and son traveling across the country on a motorcycle. I was particularly interested in chapters 32 and 33 as they tied the story and life after together. The author has given us insight into his life that he didn't need to share and really shows how life goes on even after a child passes. My rating is a 3 out of 5.
Not necessarily my cup of tea but an interesting book overall. It didn't take me long to realize that the motorcycle maintenance was a metaphor used throughout the book to help weave the themes together. The content wasn't something I really paid much attention to but was very interested in the story of a father and son traveling across the country on a motorcycle. I was particularly interested in chapters 32 and 33 as they tied the story and life after together. The author has given us insight into his life that he didn't need to share and really shows how life goes on even after a child passes. My rating is a 3 out of 5.
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