Crazy4reading's 999 Categories

I am still working on my list of categories. I am just going to type and see what I come up with... So here goes...

1. TBR pile
2. Johanna Lindsey books
3. Romance
4. Mystery/suspense
5. YA/ Children - COMPLETED 12/31/09
6. Authors new to me - COMPLETED 9/29/09
7. Books about events/places/can't fit any where else etc.... COMPLETED 11/28/09
8. Cookbooks/ Exercise/Self Help - COMPLETED 12/27/09
9. Re-reads

These are subject change as I see fit.... I will not be listing my books until I either start reading them or I have finished reading them.. I am going to post a link in here for my 50 book challenge for 2009 which will contain my reviews, if I remember to post them. Plus I do have a site that I post all my reviews for books that I have read I will also have that link too.




http://www.librarything.com/topic/54236

http://monicalynn.proboards55.com/index.cgi?board=breviews&action=display&am...

New link to my 50 book Challenge thread. Started a new thread because the other one is too long.

http://www.librarything.com/topic/66799

TBR pile

1. Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris
2. The Outlander by Gil Adamson
3. Sylvia, Rachel, Meredith, Anna by Robert Slentz-Kesler
4. American Wife by Curtis Sittenfeld
5. The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
6. You Did it for Me: Friendship and Kindness by Robert Hug
7.
8.
9.

Johanna Lindsey books (fave romance author & many of her books are on my TBR pile too)

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.

Romance (any kind)

1. Restless Hearts by Marta Perry
2. Judging Justine by Penny Richards
3. It Happened One Wedding Night by Karen Hughes
4. Truly, Madly: A Novel by Heather Webber
5. Highland Hearts by Virgina Brown
6.
7.
8.
9.

Mystery/Suspense

1. The Naked Face by Sidney Sheldon
2. The Body in the Library by Agatha Christie
3. Postern of Fate by Agatha Christie
4. Elephants Can Remember by Agatha Christie
5. A is for Alibi by Sue Grafton
6.
7.
8.
9.

YA/Children

1. The Tales of Beedle the Bard by JK Rowling
2. The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
3. Die Struwwelliese by Cilly Schmitt-Teichmann
4. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
5. ttyl by Lauren Myracle
6. Sammy Keyes and the Skeleton Man by Wendelin Van Draanen
7. Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli
8. Here's to You, Rachel Robinson by Judy Blume
9. Charlotte's Web by E. B. White

Authors new to me

1. You Lost Him at Hello by Jess McCann
2. Real Vampires Have Curves by Gerry Bartlett
3. The Red Pony by John Steinbeck
4. Workshop of the Second Self by Gary Wolf
5. Fear of Flying by Erica Jong
6. Gray Apocalypse by James Murdoch
7. Sworn to Silence by Linda Castillo
8. Peter Carrot-Top in Search of the 8th Key by Yolanda Jackson
9. Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America by Barbara Ehrenreich

One category down!! Yeah!!!

Books about events/places/can't fit anywhere else etc...(This category is hopefully going to be books about places and events around the world.)

1. The Johnstown Flood of 1889 The Tragedy of the Conemaugh by Paula & Carl Degen
2. The Addict: One Patient, Once Doctor, One Year by Michael Stein
3. Roadside Prey by Alva Busch
4. The Lost Boy by David Pelzer
5. A Man Named Dave by Dave Pelzer
6. Stronger after Stroke by Peter G. Levine
7. Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee by Dee Brown
8. With Music and Justice For All by Frye Gaillard
9. Testimony by Anita Shreve

2nd category done.

Cookbooks/Exercise/Gardening/Self help

1. 20-minute burn by Matt Roberts
2. Better Homes and Gardens Eat and Stay Slim
3. Santa's Favorite Cookies by Ltd. Publicatons International
4. Pilates body in motion by Alycea Ungaro
5. Betty Crocker's Cooky Book
6. The Secret By Rhonda Byrne
7. Act like a Gentleman, Think like a Lady by Maria Bustillos
8. Die Smart by Kathy Lane
9. Look Great, Live Green by Deborah Burnes

Re-reads

1. A Child Called It by Dave Pelzer
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.

I think I am doing okay on this challenge.

I popped over to see your 999 thread. I had to giggle when I saw your cookbook/exercise category. I don't know why, because I'm starting an exercise program AND am going through my 75+ cookbooks for some 'healthy' comfort foods at the same time, so I should have the same category, but it just seemed funny! :-)

P.S. I like how you organized your challenge--only adding your titles as you read them; it seems a lot simpler and more readable too. Good luck!

Thanks bonnie. I just couldn't think of any other category and I have so many cook books and exercise books and am also trying to exercise and eat healthy I figured I may as well include them. I think I will start reading one of them tonight. I just hope I remember to add the books as I finish them.

Thanks for stopping by.

Now starting on a Cookbook. I think those are going to be the hardest for me to really read. I will either get really bored or will get hungry and start eating or wanting to make things.

That's my problem, when I read 2 or 3 recipes I want to make smething, I can't imagine reading a whole cookbook without getting my mixer and pans out!

That is why I am reading it while I wait for my son after his swim practice, no pots or pans near me then. I am going to go read a little now, maybe something will peak my interest..

I have to have a pad of sticky notes when I read a cookbook. I put a large one in front of the book to write the recipes I just HAVE to try. Then on the recipe's page I put a sticky note with the name of the recipe and the shopping list on it. Everyone knows which books are the good ones by how many "feathers" a book has.

That's a good idea. I will have to go and buy some sticky notes...

>17 LA12Hernandez: I do the same thing! When my father-in-law comes over he looks at the bookmarked recipes and suggests which one I should make next.

I found a few nice recipes. I will post a review later on my 50 book challenge thread. I didn't put sticky notes on them though.

Well I seem to be on a roll with my cookbook/exercise/self help category. I have two more I am reading right now so hopefully I will finish one of them today and then I can really concentrate on my December ER book.

Check out my 50 book challenge thread to see my review of the books I have read.

http://www.librarything.com/topic/54236

I just finished my 9th book.

I just finished another Cook book. I will be reading my ER book next.

Check out my 50 book challenge thread for my reviews

http://www.librarything.com/topic/54236

I changed my category about events and places and added doesn't fit any where else. Now I just finished book 11, which was my ER book. I have 3 books that I am going to start reading after I get off of here.

I just finished The Outsiders. I have read it before so it could also have gone in my re-reads. Look for my review soon...

I just finished reading The Red Pony by John Steinbeck

John Steinbeck's book about a boy and his first pony. I was truly drawn into this book from the beginning when Jody is given a red pony. He takes wonderful care of the pony, Gabilan, and is worried when ever anything could possibly hurt Gabilan.
Jody's father is a man that does not like to show weakness or emotions. Billy Buck is the worker that helps on their farm. Billy teaches Jody how to train the pony with the bridle, halter etc.
I love horses and enjoyed reading about the boy training his horse, and the birth of a colt. In the first chapter I was surprised as to the loss the boy had to deal with after just a short time with Gabilan.

I just finished book number 14. It was a true story. Look for my review soon. The book went under the category of events, places, can't find anywhere else to place it.

My review for Roadside Prey:

This book was very interesting to say the least. I was grossed out by most of the stuff this guy did to the women. Roadside Prey is the true story about Robert Ben Rhoades and his murders and assaults to women that he picked up on the highway, or at truck stops.
The story begins with Rhoades picking up a girl at a truck stop. Just reading the book gave me chills at how the young girls just went with him. He was able to manipulate them and make them feel very comfortable with him. As you read the book you learn more about his personal life and addiction to violent sex. If you can handle explicit detail about women having their bodies tortured with the devices that are shown in the book then you should give this book a chance.
I don't want to give away too much about what exactly happened to the girls, women and young ladies but just know that this guy was a sadistic man.

5 stars *****

I finished my 2nd romance book and my 15th book in all. Check out my thread in the 50 challenge group to see my review. Now I am going to start reading a book to include in my events category. The book is called A Child Called It. I have read this book before and just feel I need to read it again along with the other two books.

I finished another book this weekend. A Child Called It by Dave Pelzer. That is number 16. I am going to place this in the re-read category.

Just thought I'd drop by and have a look-see at your 999 challenge. :) I'm doing the paranormal 999 challenge, and I'm so behind. You seem to be doing great! I love some of your reads. I'm ashamed to say I've never read The Outsiders, even though I own the book. And A Child Called It was in my TBR pile for last year, but I never got around to that one either. I should try those this time around. The Tales of Beedle the Bard, Real Vampires Have Curves, and Roadside Prey sound like books I'd love, so I'm going to keep those in mind when I'm out book shopping. Thanks for the ideas.

Thanks for dropping by sara!! I am glad to see that some of my reads are of interest to you. A Child Called It is a great book. I just finished the second book in the trilogy The Lost Boy and I just realized I need to get the 3rd book in the series A Man Named Dave. I thought I had that book but I only have the two plus another one titled The Privilege of Youth.

The Real Vampires Have Curves book was a book that I found by luck. Now I am looking for the other books by Gerry Bartlett.

Thanks again for stopping by.

I knew there was a sequel to A Child Called It, but I didn't know there was a third--or that Dave Pelzer had other books out. Thanks! I'll have to look for those.

I know I didn't realize that he had more then just those 3 books. I am going to look for A Man Named Dave and Help Yourself tomorrow at the book store, hopefully.

I did buy A Man Named Dave. I decided against the other one for now. I will look for that another time, instead I bought The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold and Coraline by Neil Gaiman. Which are both new authors to me.

I finished The Lost Boy and I am posting my review on the 50 book challenge thread.

That's great that you found the books you were looking for. I really liked The Lovely Bones, but you'll probably find out either people really loved it or hated it. I heard they're making it into a movie, so that should be interesting to see. I haven't read Coraline yet (another one made into a movie), but I love Neil Gaiman. Keep us posted on how they turned out for you. I'll pop over to your other thread now. :)

That is why I bought The Lovely Bones because of being made into a movie. I love to read the books first (if possible) before seeing the movie. I have heard a lot of great things about Neil Gaiman so I figured I might as well give him a try.

I love to read the books first (if possible) before seeing the movie.

Same here, but I sometimes think it's so much quicker to watch the movie, especially if the book(s) is/are huge (eg, The Lord of the Rings movies). I can't think of too many movies where the movie is better than the book. Well, maybe Legends of the Fall. I didn't really like the short story it was based on.

I know what you mean. I dragged myself through reading the Lord of the Ring books so I could see the movies and now I don't care if I see the movie (plus it hasn't been on lately). I know there are so many movies based on books and I almost always get disappointed in the movie. The Harry Potter movies are about as good as the books except for all the little things they leave out.

The Lord of the Rings movies are pretty good. I'm not sure how accurate they are to the books, though. One book I heard that was good by J. R. R. Tolkien was The Hobbit, so I may give that one a go. I loved the animated movie it was made into (as a kid).

Yes I read The Hobbit along with The Lord of the Rings. They are very long reads. I did get bored at times but I am not sure as to why.

Probably just that--they're too long. :)

Probably. Even though I enjoyed the Harry Potter books.

Oh, hmm. Guess I'm wrong there. :) It's probably just J. R. R. Tolkien's writing then. Which reminds me, I really should start the Harry Potter series ASAP. I have several, but I keep putting them off.

Sara,
If I were stranded on a desert Island, the Harry Potter books are the ones that I would want with me. If you have never read them, you are in for a real treat!

I second what cyderry said...

I don't doubt I'll enjoy the Harry Potter books; I just keep getting distracted. I think by the time I start them, I'll be the last person on earth who hasn't read them. :)

And Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit are both worth it, even though the Lord of the Rings is so long. Much easier to get the three books seperately and maybe have a break in between, makes it seem more manageable. The Hobbit comes before the Lord of the Rings, but I found it harder to get in to, so ended up reading it after. I read the books when I was younger and absolutely loved them - and still do :) (Also, MUCH better than the movies, but when is the book not?!)

#48> I read all the Lord of the Rings books starting with The Hobbit and I too found it difficult to get into. I literally had to force myself to read all of them in a row. I finally saw the movies and I did enjoy them but of course I saw most of the differences between the books and the movie. I enjoyed them though.

I just finished my 18th book. My review is posted here: http://www.librarything.com/topic/54236

#18. A Man Named Dave by Dave Pelzer

Now I just need to figure out what to read next....

#19. Stronger After Stroke by Peter G. Levine

#20. Workshop of the Second Self by Gary Wolf

I finally finished my reviews. I enjoyed both books. Workshop of the Second Self is very entertaining and I highly recommend it. I love the satirical on the world today. Both of these books were new to the types that I have been reading. Stronger after Stroke is a great book for anyone that is interested in being for armed with information on how to recover from a stroke. Look for my full reviews in my 50 book challenge thread or on the books page.

I will be reading Fear of Flying by Erica Jong, another new author for me. Actually I will be finishing that book. I stopped reading it to finish the other two books first.

I just finished!!

#21. Fear of Flying by Erica Jong

I am going to read Bury my Heart at Wounded Knee by Dee Brown. I will post my review of Fear of Flying hopefully later today.

I loved Fear of Flying...at least I think I did...it was about a hundred years ago. Bury my Heart at Wounded Knee will break your heart and make you very, very angry.

Fear of Flying is a book that is hard for me to say if I liked or not. I didn't hate it I do know that. Here is my review:

I decided to read Fear of Flying for a change of pace. I sure chose the right book for that. When I started reading Fear of Flying the title of the first chapter caught my attention. I have read books with cursing in them before but not one with it in the title. That didn't stop me from continueing the book, that made me more interested.

If you are needing a change in what you have been reading then pick up Fear of Flying. Fear of Flying is a story of what a woman really thinks about when it comes to sex. I found myself laughing inside while reading Fear of Flying.
Isadora is the lead female character who is married to Bennett, an analyist. Isadora is a writer. The revolves around Isadora and her feelings about family, sex and what she really wants out of life. Her sisters think she should stop writing and start a family. Isadora doesn't want to become like her sisters yet.

Fear of Flying was an enjoyable read even though at times I felt confused or lost in the story. I give Fear of Flying 3 1/2 stars out of 5 because of my getting lost or confused.

Now I am going to go off and read for a little bit before bed.

I would imagine that this book would feel a bit dated. Did it?

Yes it did feel a bit dated. Since I was young in the '70's the book would have been lost on me then. Plus my mom would never have let me read anything like Fear of Flying.

Well I just wanted to stop in at my thread to let everyone know that I haven't given up on this challenge I am just extremely busy right now. My daughter graduates this year so I am trying to get all of that in order. Plus next weekend is her Prom and our school does a Post Prom Party so I have been helping out with that and trying to get things together. I also did something to my back or hip and you would think that I would have been able to read. That wasn't my case, because if I was sitting too long it would hurt but if I stood to long it also hurt. Certain ways I moved it hurt. I will be going for therapy this Thursday so hopefully I will find out what I did.

I am currently reading Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee by Dee Brown. It is taking me longer to read because I find myself flipping to the back to look at the bibliography and the notes. I hope to finish the book tonight and then continue with the 3 other books I have started reading.

Monica,
I sympathize with the back/hip since I've had a back issue for 30 yers due to an auto accident. I know that PT can help so just remember, no pain, no gain. Hope everythng goes well for your daughter's special events!

Thank you cyderry,
This won't be the first time for PT. I found out 19 years ago that I have a degenerative disc so I am usually very careful. Since I started taking Line Dancing classes I have been having hip pain so hopefully this will help. Right now I have not had any pain for a few days just a few minor twinges. I am still going to be evaluated for PT just in case something happens before then.

Monica

#22. Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee by Dee Brown

I have to first start off by saying that I have never trusted anyone who was or is a politician. I have always said that politicians lie, cheat and steal from their so called friends. So now on that happy note I have to say that I am some what surprised at what I read in Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee. Mainly because of the way The White men swindled the Indians out of their land. As I read the book I would gasp at the things that I read. I hate to even think that I am possibly related to any of those white men. I do remember reading about the Trail of Tears, when I worked in the fourth grade. I just remember not really understanding why that happened. You are made to think that the Indians did some thing wrong and are savages.

This is a book that everyone should take the time to read. There is so much more information in this book then in any American History book you will ever read. We owe those Indians a lot. As I was reading the book I was talking to my husband's one uncle and he said that I would be shocked by the truth. He was right. And to think that all these years I never knew what I know now. I am glad to say that my kids are part Indian/Native American on their father's side. My son has been told that he looks like a Native American even with is red hair and blue eyes.

I loved this book and I am going to be looking for more books about Indians/Native American.

5 stars

Now I am going to read... I really don't know....

#23. Gray Apocalypse by James Murdoch

Gray Apocalypse is a book that keeps you wanting more. Once you start reading, Gray Apocalypse, you won't be able to stop. James Murdoch has written a fantastic Science Fiction Thriller in Gray Apocalypse.

The Breeder Grays are the aliens that have been abducting humans for six decades. Their ultimate goal is to destroy all human life on Earth. So that the hybrids they have created can begin a new alien species on Earth.

Michael Kendon is the only one that can stop the Breeder Grays from destroying the Earth with the asteroid that the Breeder Grays control. Kendon only has three days till the asteroid will collide with the Earth. So many obstacles hinder Kendon on his mission to save mankind from total obliteration.

You will be drawn into this fast paced, action packed, thriller right from the start. Expect to loose yourself in the universe of the unknown. Pick up Gray Apocalypse and spend a day or two in a world with aliens. For James Murdoch's first novel he wrote and excellent Science Fiction Thriller in Gray Apocalypse.

5 stars

I really enjoyed this book and hope to see more books written by James Murdoch.

#24. Sworn to Silence by Linda Castillo

When I had seen this book offered on LIbrary Thing Early Reviewers I was very interested in the book. I didn't win the boo but a fellow LTER finished with it and offered it to others. I am thrilled to have requested the book and to have had the privilege of reading Sworn To Silence.

The main character of Sworn to Silence is Kate Burkholder who grew up Amish and decided to leave the Amish way of life. She is now the Chief of Police in Painters Mill, Ohio, her former hometown. She has a secret that makes Sworn to Silence a thriller.

The plot of Sworn to Silence is that a serial murdered is back after sixteen years. After the first body is discovered questions arise as to, why such a long hiatus between these murders? Does Kate know who the murderer is?

You will be trying to figure out who the murderer is and if Kate really is hiding the identity of the murderer. You are in for a jolt of surprises and mutilation in the murders. If you can handle reading about torture and sex crimes then grab yourself a copy of Sworn to Silence by Linda Castillo.

I was utterly thrilled by this book and look forward to reading more books by Linda Castillo.

5 stars

Don't you wish Early Reviewer books were given to people by how much they wanted it? :D I've seen a couple that I was just dying to own, but (sigh) never got them. I'm glad another LTer gave you theirs; that was very sweet of them. Sworn to Silence definitely sounds like something I'd read (I like your review); however, LT predicted I wouldn't like it. Somehow I doubt that. :)

Yes Sara there are times when I wish books were given out that way. I am glad to see that some one wanted to share it with others. I have a book I don't think I want to keep but personally I don't even want to give it to anyone unless they really want to read it. It is going to be the book review posted in the next post. Yes LT has predicted wrong on some books for me too.

#25. Peter Carro-Top in search of the 8th Key by Yolanda Jackson

Well this review is not going to be nice. Peter Carrot-top is a book that I had to force myself to finish reading. When I had originally seen this book offered on Member Giveaway it sounded interesting and I thought I'd give it a try. Unfortunately Peter Carrot-top did not capture my attention. I found the book very slow going in the beginning. I know that the beginning of books can be boring but this book was poorly written. It felt choppy to me as I was reading the book.

This book is about ghosts, wizards, good vs. evil, and the elders of Baja. Baja is going to have a war amongst the wizards and ghosts of Baja. The concept for the book is different and I feel had the potential to be a very interesting story. Yolanda Jackson does not bring forth a good story. I found many grammatical errors, words missing in sentences and just general horrendous editing.

I am glad to say that I finished the story and can be very honest that the story took a long time to really get interesting. It took until approximately chapter 18 to really get to the adventure and battles, but once again it felt drawn out and overly wordy. Once you get to the final battle and Peter needs to get the key to free the elders it is interesting and then every think works out and the story ends. As I was reading the book, a chapter would start to get interesting, then the next chapter would start and it would become monotonous.

I would not recommend this book just because I did not enjoy it. There may be someone out there that would enjoy this style of writing but I did not. This book rates 1 star out of 5

That's too bad Peter Carro-Top in Search of the 8th Key didn't work out for you. I liked most of my E.R. books, but then I haven't read them all. If I were you, I'd give it away. Who knows, maybe there's someone out there who'll like it.

Sara, I have contemplated giving it away I just don't feel right in giving this book to anyone. I feel it is very poorly written and not worth anyone's time to read, IMHO.

I have thought about giving it to my nephew who doesn't read because I think it is on his level and by that I mean 1st grade or younger.

The book almost sounds contagious. :D Let's hope your nephew doesn't hate reading after you give it to him. ;)

I actually showed the book to some other people that love to read and they gave it back to me after just looking at it. They couldn't stand it. Both said that the writing was horrendous and that the book looks like it was never edited for mistakes. I feel like I actually wasted a month worth of reading just trying to get through that book.

#26. With Music and Justice for All by Frye Gaillard

With Music and Justice for All is the first book I have read about the South. I found myself intrigued by the Southern History and Culture with this book.

I was educated on events that I thought I knew about and some that I knew nothing about. The book, With Music and Justice for All, covers many aspects and people from the South. Some are names you recognize and think you know a lot about them. Others are lesser known yet they contributed in some way to the history and culture of the south.

My reading choices have now been expanded by reading With Music and Justice for All.

5 stars

Almost finished 2 categories. I am currently reading The Body in the Library and The Naked Face. I hope to finish them this weekend because I really need to catch up on my reading.

#27. The Naked Face by Sidney Sheldon

Wow!! Is all I could say when I read the first chapter of The Naked Face. This book captures your attention in the first chapter. I picked the book up at the library mainly to get a feel for the author Sidney Sheldon. I own a few of his books and wasn't sure about reading them. After reading The Naked Face I know that I will be reading his other books too.

The Naked Face starts out with a man happy because he is going to be going home to his wife and letting her know that what happened in the past is over with. You wonder what he is happy about and what was it was from his past when he is stabbed in the streets. You are left thinking did his past already catch up to him? You are thrown into a story of suspense and mystery that revolves around Dr. Judd Stevens.

Dr. Stevens is a psychoanalyst. He analyzes people and their behaviors, life style and has them discover who they really are. He doesn't tell them that they are insane or paranoiac. He tries to help them to discover what is really inside them. His patients range from a house wife to a prominent business man. You discover that the person murdered in the first chapter was one of Dr. Stevens patients.

The detectives assigned to the case are Angeli and McGreavy. Dr. Stevens and McGreavy have a history. McGreavy has animosity towards Dr. Stevens. As the story progresses I was trying to figure out who did it and why.

As Dr. Stevens starts to analyze things in his own life you start to wonder if maybe he is a paranoiac. He believes some one is out to kill him when he is hit by a car. Is the doctor going to go to the nut house, or is he sane? That is what I started to ask myself.

The Naked Face is a detective mystery that keeps you glued to the pages of the story. I found myself reading the book in less then 2 days. I will be picking up more of Sidney Sheldon's books.

5 stars

I've been a fan of Sidney Sheldon for years. I'm pretty sure I've read all of them; a couple of my favorites are Rage of Angels and If Tomorrow Comes.

Hi ivyd!! I have a few of Sidney Sheldon's books but I don't believe I have ever taken the time to read them. Now I will be looking into more of his books.

Just finished another book for my Mystery category.

#28. The Body in the Library By Agatha Christie

This is my first Agatha Christie book. I have been informed by many people that I would love Agatha Christie's books. I admit that is true. I started The Body in the Library this morning. Every free moment I had I was reading the book.

How would you react to finding a body in your library? I don't know if I would be as calm as the woman in this book. Mrs. Bantry was thrilled with finding a body in her library. This was her chance to be a sleuth. That is what she was eager for.

The Body in the Library is a Miss Marple Mystery. Miss Marple is the sleuth in the village of St. Mary Mead. Mrs. Bantry calls Miss Marple up to the house when the body is found.

I enjoyed the book except for the parts that were written in French. Since I have never taken French some of the jokes were lost on me. Ms. Christie's writing style is one that is new to me. The book was a nice easy week end read.

5 stars since I didn't know until the very end who the murderer was..

Number 8. The Joy of Cooking! One of my favorites.
:)

Hi, Monica!
Just popped by to say that you are doing great with your challenge. I have Gray Apocalypse on my wishlist, so I was glad to see that you liked it. It looked like a good one to me, too. Have a great day!
--BJ

Well my last post didn't seem to post so here I go again:

Hi Noemi3231!! Thanks for stopping by.

Hi BJ!! I highly recommend Gray Apocalypse. I found myself not wanting to put the book down. I hope you are able to obtain a copy of Gray Apocalypse.

I just finished reading Dead Until Dark look for a review soon.

I see Sidney Sheldon's books all the time, but I've never picked one up. I'll have to flip through one when I can. Hopefully we have The Naked Face at work, so I'll look for it tomorrow.

Agatha Christie--I have a couple books by her (gathering dust on my shelves, as it happens), but I've never been in the mood to finish one of her books. I don't know why, since I usually like the movies based on her books. And can you believe they have Agatha Christie graphic novels out now? Lol! I guess I shouldn't be surprised, but I am. I just don't see older fans reading them.

Can't wait for your Dean Until Dark review. I have a few Charlaine Harris books I plan on starting this year for my 999 Paranormal Challenge, and I was wondering if her books are as good as everyone says.

I was pleasantly surprised by The Naked Face when I decided to read it. I hope you have it at work. I borrowed mine from the library and will be reading the ones that I own now.

Here is my review for Dead Until Dark:

#29. Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris

Well the main reason I decided to read Dead Until Dark was because of the True Blood series on HBO, plus it was recommended to me by people from here and a few sites I belong to. I think I put off reading the book because I thought I wasn't in the mood for any more Vampires. This book is nothing like what I expected, which is a good thing. I found myself laughing out loud or having to stop myself from laughing to loud since I was reading it at work.

Dead Until Dark is the first book in a series by Charlaine Harris. I do not know exactly how many books there are going to be. I believe there are about 7 books in the series right now. The main character of the book is Sookie Stackhouse who is a small time cocktail waitress in a small town in Louisiana. She has a 'disability' that does frighten some people of Bon Temp. Sookis is able to read minds. Her disability makes it hard for her to have a relationship with men until she meets Bill one night at the bar that she works. Bill is a vampire and she is able to drop her guard when she is around him which she loves because of all the silence.

One of Sookie's co-workers is murdered and people think it is Sookie's vampire doing all the killing because the first girl that is murdered has old bite marks. Sookie fears she is the next one on the murderers list.

I found myself not wanting to stop reading the book. I would finish a chapter and find myself starting the next one right away. I enjoyed reading this book and seeing the vampires portrayed in a different way then what I read in the Twilight books. No sparkly vampires in this book.

5 stars

I finished another book. I placed it in my YA/Children category because I believe it is a children's book. Here is my review:

#30. Die Struwwelliese by Cilly Schmitt-Teichmann

I won this book through the Member Giveaway program. Even though I have never taken German as a language I know my sister has and figured she could read it to her children. I decided to read it prior to letting her borrow it. Die Struwwelliese is a very cute book and story. I had to use a translator since I don't know too much German. The story is interesting even in translation.

My son's friend who is living with us does know German so he started to read it. He told me about the book Die Struwwelpeter (forgive me if I am wrong) that Die Struwwelliese is most likely based on.

I gave the book 4 stars.

Yeah another one down. I have been falling behind on my reading lately. I have 4 books checked out of the library and they have to be returned by Fri. I think I will be renewing them again. I finished one late last night. My review will be posted below.

#31. Postern of Fate by Agatha Christie

I just finished this book late last night. I enjoyed the book. The main characters are Tommy and Tuppence Beresford. They are an elderly couple that have solved mysteries in the past. This is the first book I have read by Agatha Christie with Tommy and Tuppence.

I found the couple very entertaining with the style of speech and the way they interacted with each other. Some times they were able to finish each others thoughts or were confused by what the other was saying. That made me think of most elderly couples even if they haven't been a couple for long.

Tommy and Tuppence have purchased a house. The house is very old and has had many names such as: The Laurels and The Swallows Nest.

Tuppence is organizing books that they purchased along with the house. The books are old and she fondly remembers reading some of them when she was a youngster.

As she is looking through one of the books she comes across a cryptic message that was left in the book. The message is left by certain letters being underlined in the book. The message read: Mary Jordan did not die naturally. It was one of us. I think I know which one. That starts the ball rolling on this wonderfully entertaining story.

I found myself trying to figure out who had done it from the beginning even though most of the people from that time period were most likely dead. I enjoyed learning about the people that had owned the house before plus those that had lived in the neighborhood before.

4 stars out of 5

Look for a review soon on Elephants Can Remember by Agatha Christie. I placed that book in the Mystery Suspense category.

Hi, Monica!
Loved your review of Postern of Fate. I used to read Agatha Christie quite a bit, and loved all of them. I need to read one again sometime soon. Have a great day!
--BJ

Thanks Billiejean. This is the first time I have read Agatha Christie. I have always wanted to read her books but never found them or found time to read them. I am glad I have taken the time to read them this year. Plus my son will be reading one of her books for school this year.

Now on to my review:

#32. Elephants Can Remember by Agatha Christie

I am on an Agatha Christie run right now. This book is a Hercule Poirot mystery. This is a story of a woman,Mrs. Ariadne Oliver, that is approached while at a literary luncheon by some one unknown to her, Mrs. Burton-Cox, about Mrs. Oliver's goddaughter's parents deaths fifteen years earlier. Mrs. Burton-Cox is curious to learn the truth about the murder/suicide of Celia Ravenscroft's parents.

This was a different type of mystery that was interesting to follow. You already know who the victims are you are just trying to learn who was killed first. Who was the actual person to murder and then commit suicide. Mrs. Burton-Cox is concerned because her son and Celia are planning to get married. She doesn't want her son marrying some one who may decide to kill her son. As the story progresses you start to feel that there is an underlying reason for Mrs. Burton-Cox's true concerns.

4 stars out of 5

Slowly getting through my challenges. Finished A is for Alibi by Sue Grafton. Look for a review soon. I hope I can finish my challenges.

Here is my review of:

#33. A is for Alibi by Sue Grafton

I have been wanting to read Sue Grafton for awhile but I kept putting it off because my father didn't care for her books. I didn't love the book yet I didn't hate the book either. A is for Alibi was an enjoyable read. I will try her books again.

This story is about a PI, Kinsey Millhone, who is hired by a woman, Nikki Fife, who was found guilty of murdering her husband. Nikki hires Kinsey to prove that she was innocent. As Kinsey starts looking at everyone that knew Nikki's husband back then I had a gut feeling that I knew who had killed Mr. Fife. I just had that feeling from the way the person interacted with Kinsey. That made the book a little boring because I just wanted to know if I was right.

The book got suspenseful when I had about 3 chapters left to read. The ending of the story was different from what I am used to when reading a mystery. I was glad to see that I was right about who had committed the murder.

Since the book took me awhile to read I gave the book 3 1/2 stars.

I'm kind of "meh" about Sue Grafton's books, too. They're not terrible (in fact, I like the protagonist, Kinsey Millhone), but I can't remember much about the ones I have read (A, D, and F). Good luck if you're going on to B. :)

Thanks I may see if I can find the book on CD and listen to it instead of reading it. Right now I am reading The Outlander by Gil Adamson. I am just going to read that book and nothing else for now.

That's a good book to concentrate on. The author creates some really good tension with the brothers chasing her. How far are you into it?

I am on chapter 5 I believe. It has been very good I just had trouble concentrating at first because of some personal problems. I am slowly getting back to reading books. This book is very interesting compared to the last one I read.

Hope you're feeling better now. Happy reading!

Thanks Bonnie. I have my good and bad moments and days. I am enjoying the book a lot.

Well I never finished The Outlander by Gil Adamson. I want to check it out of the library again to try and finish it this time. Below is a review for another book I just finished. I am slowly getting back to reading and a semi normal life. I have missed reading and posting on here. I will hopefully be posting on here and reading more books. I have missed a lot of you guys!!

#34. Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting by in America by Barbara Ehrenreich

I finally finished this book. I am not one that usually enjoys books of this nature but since I am going through some rough patches right now I needed to read this book.

The author Barbara Ehrenreich decides to see how the low income people survive on the pay that they receive. As I read this book it really made me realize how much the rich seem to get richer and the poor get poorer. I borrowed this book from my son's friend and I am glad I did. It took me awhile to read the book because it is only 3 chapters long and I would stop reading and then not pick the book up in a long time and have to go back just to refresh my memory.

In this book Barb travels to different parts of the United States and gives herself a limited amount of money when she first moves to a new place to look for a low wage job. She first decides to find a job in Key West, Florida as a waitress. Her next stop is in Maine in the Portland Area as a maid, and her last stop is in Minnesota in sales.

Barb first starts off with looking for a place to live when she first arrives in Florida, Maine and Minnesota. As she is looking for housing she also looks for jobs by looking in the want ads or just seeing signs posted in stores, restaraunts etc. The interesting thing about the book is that the pay wages are so different in each area and also in the types of jobs she accuires. Her first job as a waitress only pays $2.43 an hr. plus tips. So depending on the type of waitress she is and the establishment can make the job a good or bad one. Plus the waitresses have to split the tips with the busboys. It is interesting to see how she handles the job and also the customers. Some of the customers are so rude and expect everything to be ready when they want it.

Her next stop is in Maine. Barb hunts again for both a place to live and a job. She finally finds one place to live which isn't the nicest but at least it is a roof over her head. The job she finds is in maid service. Her pay will be $6.65 an hour and if she misses a day her pay will go down to $6.00 for 2 weeks. She has to go through training to learn the correct way to dust, vacuum, and clean. Who would think you need to be trained on how to clean.

Her last stop is in Minnesota. She actually starts out with possibly two jobs, one at Menards and the other at Walmart. She doesn't think she can handle working two jobs so she decides to take just one. She decides to take the job at Walmart in sales. All I have to say is that I was very shocked by what I learned about Walmart and some of there practices. Since I have worked in retail before I know the pay isnt't always the greatest but usually the benefits help out.

I found Nickel and Dimed very informative and opened my eyes to the problems that our government seem to just push under the rug or try to convince us that we don't know what we are talking about and see with our own eyes.

I read this book do to the fact that I may be going through something like this soon. I just wanted to get an idea of what it is like do live in poverty by reading this book. I wouldn't wish this on anyone.

5 stars

With this book I finished my first category - Authors New to Me. One down and 8 more to go.

I see Nickel and Dimed a lot at work. Or maybe it's just me feeling a little wary about whether my job's secure or not. Technically, I am at poverty level, but I could see things getting a lot worse (ie, no job, no home, etc). And I've always felt bad for waitresses. What you mentioned about her dealing with rude customers is about what I expected from people. That's one job I don't think I could handle. I guess next time I see this one on the shelf, I'll have to give it a flip-through. Just in case. :) Nice review, btw! I've thumbed you on the book page.

Thanks for the thumb Sara. I do worry about things getting worse but I have realized that the more I think about it the worse I make it. Happy thoughts is what I do now. I to have felt bad for waitresses. I am always very nice and smile when they wait on me. I figure that they have to make me feel good so I should make them feel just a comfortable to wait on me. A smile works wonders. Happy reading and good night!!

Monica

Hi, Monica,
I liked your review of Nickel and Dimed. Almost 20 years ago, I met someone who used to be a waitress and she told me about how hard it is. Now I always leave a nice tip.

The weather here is changing. It is so exciting. My dog is loving the colder air. Hope that you are having a good day. Take care.
--BJ

Hi BJ,
I don't know why I didn't respond earlier. Thanks for the comment. I too leave a nice tip.
The weather here has been so damp and cold the past couple of days. I don't mind but not when it hits so fast. I like a slow progression to cooler weather.

I just finished another book. The Secret by Rhonda Byrne. Look for the review later today or tonight. Happy reading and God Bless!!

Monic'a

#35. The Secret by Rhonda Byrne

The Secret was recommended to me by a friend on Facebook because of something very difficult I am going through. He just kept going on how the book changed his life and that how what you are thinking and feeling is what will happen. I went into reading the book with skepticism. The basis of the book is the Secret to living a wonderful life and being able to receive everything you want and deserve.

As I was reading the book I noticed how my emotions were influencing the things around me. I started to tune into my feelings and try to think positive thoughts. I noticed myself starting to feel better and getting happier as I read the book. I know that I will use this book as a reference when ever I feel negative feelings or thoughts. I am not going to try and persuade anyone that this book is the meaning to life. I will tell you that The Secret is a great book to help you find the real you and to discover the positive energy from with in you. So I would recommend reading The Secret for some great soul searching and healing.

4 out of 5 stars

Thanks for the review. I have added the book to my wishlist. I have noticed in my life how negative thought impact me negatively. I am trying to be more positive these days. I think that I will like this book. Have a great day! :)
--BJ

BJ: I have noticed that negativity was very influential in my life before reading The Secret. Since I have read it I try to thing positively. Yesterday I went to a luncheon and there was a speaker there. He talked about how we have become a negative society. He pointed out how the news is nothing but negativity, from the traffic reports, to the weather. They always tell you about the roads that are jammed, he said why don't they just tell which roads are open and clear. The same with the weather, It is Partly Cloudy, yet it is a beautiful day for November. I found it very interesting and truthful. Just like when they mention the unemployment they tell you that it is at 10% so that really means that 90% of the population is employed, yet they never mention that. Okay rant over.

I finally finished my book, The Outlander by Gil Adamson. I placed the book in the TBR category because I had checked it out of the library about 3 times then had to return it and check it out again to finally finish it. Look for review soon.

I will be starting 3 new books today:
Die Smart by Kathy Lane
Sylvia, Rachel, Meredith, Anna by Robert Slentz-Kesler
Act Like a Gentleman, Think like a Woman by Maria Bustillos
I am also reading Living Dead in Dallas by Charlaine Harris. Hopefully I will be able to finish at least one of the books this week since they aren't too long like The Outlander.

Happy reading all!! :)

Monic'a

Hi, Monic'a!
I totally agree with you!! I have started two books. Of course the one I started second is the one I am more interested in. I really need to stick to one at a time, but I just can't resist!
--BJ

Good luck with your new reads. :) I saw Act Like a Gentleman, Think Like a Woman somewhere (maybe at a bookstore or at work) and wanted to flip through it, but got distracted and wasn't able to; so I'll have to put a hold on it at work. Can't wait to hear what you thought of it.

#36. The Outlander by Gil Adamson

Here is my review:

It took me a long time to read this book just because I went through a rough patch in July and Aug. I had borrowed the book from the library in the beginning of July and was really enjoying it when my life took a turn for the worse. I just couldn't read any books with out crying or not knowing what I was reading. I finally had to return the book and waited a few months before I borrowed it again. I am glad I waited and didn't try to read it or just gave up on it.

I really enjoyed the book. The Outlander is the story of a woman in the early 1900's. The story starts with her running from her brother-in-laws. She goes through all these changes as she is on the run. The woman is Mary Boulton. She is a widow.

On her journey she meets many interesting people and really discovers things about herself that she didn't know before. I found myself as I read this book wanting things to work out for her. I was pleased with most of the book except for the end. I felt a little bit was missing. I don't know what it was. I just know I wanted to know what happened with the brother-in-laws, otherwise it was a good book and well worth the time to read.

3 1/2 stars

I started reading Act Like a Gentleman, Think Like a Woman and I am really enjoying it. I am actually going to buy Steve Harvey's book to read too. I hope to finish the book quickly since it is thin book.

#37. Act Like a Gentleman, Think Like a Woman by Maria Bustillos

Well this was a fantastic book!! I won the book in the Library Thing Member Giveaway program and was looking forward to reading it. I have yet to read Steve Harvey's book that this book is written in response to. I will be reading Steve Harvey's book soon. Act like a Gentleman, Think like a Woman was a very entertaining read even though I am a woman. I could see myself in some of the descriptions of the different types of woman she talks about. I know I am not a Patsy, the name she gives to the woman that every man wants.

Maria writes that Steve's book is talking about how all women want is to get the ring from the guy. She counters with the fact that all men want is to get laid. I found myself laughing while reading the book, because of the things she revealed about woman and saying how we love to hear how beautiful we are and that it should be all about us. I have to agree and disagree with that. It is great when a guy praises you and flatters you but sometimes it can get very annoying if it is the only thing that they talk about. I realized that when my hubby says things like that, that I do get turned on. It is nice to hear, we sometimes need to be praised to continue to be happy. At least that is what I noticed in myself while reading this book.

I don't know if everything will work in this book for a guy to find that Patsy so that he can get laid. I will say if you find the girl she describes then you should have no problem with getting what you want.

5 stars

Sounds like an interesting book, Monic'a!
--BJ

What BJ said. :) I checked for it at work, but we don't have it in our catalog. Bummer. I'm sure we'll get it. Eventually. Liked your review, btw.

BJ and Sara: Yes it is a very interesting book. I don't think the book is available everywhere yet. I wish it was because I think most people should just read the book for some entertainment and advice.

Now on to my next review:

#38. The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak

The Book Thief is an excellent book. I read the book in a week and I just didn't want to stop reading. The story is well executed and written. I read this book for a book club I just joined and was thrilled to finally have the chance to buy the book and read it.

As I read the story I found myself getting more and more drawn into the characters and their interactions with everything going on around them. The story is about a girl named Liesel who steals a book and discovers the power of the written word. I was drawn to the fact that she did not know how to read very well at first and yet she was very eager to learn.

The setting takes place in Germany during Hitler's reign. A young girl of 12 years is given to a foster home because her mother can not take care of her anymore. On the way to the new foster home her brother dies on the train and sets the stage for her to steal her first book. At first Liesel isn't happy about moving to a new home and having new parents. The Hubbermann's are her mama and papa. Mrs. Hubbermann is a very unique character and I actually started to like her as I read the book. Mr. Hubbermann is a fantastic papa to Liesel. All three have a wonderful relationship that changes and grows throughout the book.

I found myself crying as I read the last part of the book. When I was reading the book I knew I would shed a tear or two, I shed more then that. I had tears of sorrow and joy as I read The Book Thief. I highly recommend The Book Thief and encourage you to pick up a copy and take the time to read the story.

5 stars

The Book Thief is in the YA category. I don't know which category I will get done next or if I will be able to finish all the categories. Even if I don't finish all the categories I am glad to have given this challenge a try.

The Book Thief's another one I keep hearing great things about and want to read. Glad you liked it!

I too had heard great things about The Book Thief and was thrilled when I found out the book club was reading it. Otherwise I don't know when I would have gotten around to reading it.

I know what you mean. Sometimes, unless a book literally falls in my lap, it takes months--even years--for me to get around to reading my Wishlisted/TBR books. Good choice by your book club! :)

I finished another book last night:

#39. Die Smart by Kathy Lane

I won this book through Library Things Member Giveaway program. Not that I am planning to die any time soon I just thought it was a good book to try and win because it looked very helpful. I found the book filled with a lot of information. Some of the information was confusing yet helpful. To discover that even if you have a will doesn't guarantee your estate will be divided properly or that you will avoid probate court which would delay your beneficiaries from acquiring your assets.

Die Smart has made me want to start talking to a lawyer about creating a will and trusts, etc. just to make sure that my beneficiaries earn the most out of my estate and retirement funds. This is a great book to read prior to going through the death of a family member. I have to say that when my mother died I knew none of this and my dad is still alive so my sister and I didn't have any involvement in her estate. Now I actually want to talk to my father about what he has done to see if he is prepared so that my sister and I don't have to go to court or delay thing with probate.

I recommend Die Smart for a great reference book. Take it with you when you go to see a lawyer about your will or trusts, etc. Don't wait until it is too late and make it hard on your family.

5 stars because it is a great source of information

#40. Testimony by Anita Shreve

Testimony started out a little slow for me. After about 3 chapters I started to enjoy the story. Testimony is about private school in Vermont. The school is Avery Academy. There is an incident among a 14 year old girl and 3 boys ranging in the ages of 18 and 19.

When light of the incident becomes the knowledge of the headmaster, Mr. Bordwin, he tries to keep everything in house. He questions the involved students one by one. After he speaks to the girl the girl decides to call her parents and cry about what happened. Her father tells her to call the police because she was raped.

I did not care for the girl in this story because I felt that she was a manipulator and instigator of the whole incident, even though she was only 14. Just by the way her character was written gave me that impression.

I would give this book a rating of 4 stars.

Another one going on my (towering) TBR pile. Thanks! :)

Sorry. :) I keep adding to my tower TBR pile too. I hope to finish Sylvia, Rachel, Meredith, Anna by Robert Slentz-Kesler today. Then I plan to read some really easy books just for fun.

#41. Sylvia, Rachel, Meredith, Anna by Robert Slentz

Sylvia, Rachel, Meredith, Anna is a novel about a man named Gerard who is in his last year of college and not sure what he wants to do with his life. His fiance, Sylvia, keeps harping on him to decide on a job after they graduate. One day Gerard finds letters addressed to Sylvia from a guy she had an affair with. This sets up the decision Gerard finally makes.

Gerard decides to enlist in the army. This is when all the fun starts in this novel. I am not familiar with military life so I found the story very interesting and funny. The language is very colorful yet I can see why it would be. Seeing how the men are treated by the drill sergeants and other enlisted men I can see how they would talk like they do.

I enjoyed the story even though I felt that in some parts it dragged a little and I would have to push my way through the story. The book did get very interesting towards the end just before the men graduated from the infantry. If you are one that does not like colorful language and vulgarities then this is not a book for you.

I have 2 categories done. I read another book tonight after I finished #41. This book is in the YA category.

#42. ttyl by Lauren Myracle

I decided to read this book for a bit of light easy reading and that is exactly what I got. I enjoyed the book. ttyl is written as IMing among friends. The book was a nice read. It was interesting to see how when something is written it can be interpreted in many different ways.

4 stars

:D No need to apologize. Really, it's a good thing (ie, adding more books to my TBR pile). I just need to learn how to read faster. Or grow another pair of eyeballs. Whichever happens first. ;)

So weird! TTYL's been sitting by my computer for awhile. I've been meaning to start it for about month now, but keep getting sidetracked (not me! ;). So glad you liked it. I'll have to give it a go soon.

I really needed an easy book to read. I decided on TTYL since my daughter read it a few years back and enjoyed it. It was such an easy read and only took me a few hours to read. Now I am reading Sammy Keyes and the Skeleton Man by Wendelin Van Draanen. I hope to finish that book tonight.

Thanks for reminding me about the Sammy Keyes books. They're great for struggling readers. I so loved the older covers so much more than the newer ones, but they probably appeal more to the targeted audience.

Well I finished Sammy Keyes and the Skeleton Man last night. Here is my review:

#43. Sammy Keyes and the Skeleton Man by Wendelin Van Draanen

This was a very cute book. I enjoyed the story line. My daughter read this book when she was in middle school.

The story starts out on Halloween. Sammy, Marissa and Dot are getting ready for trick or treat. Sammy's Gram thinks she is too old for dressing up. The girls decide to knock on a house that is considered scary. As the girls are on there way to the house they are run down by a man in a skeleton costume.

That is the set up for a very adventurous story. There are more teenage going ons in the book that just added to the humor of the book.

This is a nice easy read for anyone that just wants an afternoon of relaxation.

5 stars

I just realized that I didn't start this challenge until Jan 14th so I have until Jan 14th, 2010 to finish this challenge. My goal is to finish by 1/1/10, if I don't then I will go until the 14th.

Yeah another book done. I really enjoy reading the YA/kids books just because they are fun and relaxing. I hope to finish some more books this week and weekend. Here is my review:

#44. Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli

Very cute story of a girl who lives life to the fullest. Stargirl is a story about a high school girl who is very different then most teenagers. She is always happy and giving to others. Stargirl sings happy birthday to people in the lunch room while playing her ukelele. The other students just look at her and just talk about how unique she is compared to others.

Stargirl goes to a football game and is the best entertainment that has been seen at the football games in a long time. While the marching band of about a dozen members marches and plays their instruments Stargirl is in the background dancing and just having fun. The teams come back out on the field and start to warm up and Stargirl warms up with them. The ref has to chase her off the field so that they can finish the game. After her performance at that game people started to attend just waiting to see her.

I would read this book again just for fun.

5 stars

#45. Here's to You, Rachel Robinson by Judy Blume

This is a very nice easy read for young pre-teens. I read the book just because I wanted a nice light easy read. I found myself laughing at the girls in the book as I remembered acting sometimes like them.

Rachel Robinson is a 13 year old girl who is highly intelligent and loves to learn. She is the youngest of the children in her family. She has an older brother who she finds annoying. I am sure many sisters would agree that their brother would be annoying too.

Rachel has two friends who she shares almost everything with. Her friends find her brother cute and interesting which makes her mad at them sometimes.

4 1/2 stars

I am trying to read as many books as possible. I hope to read at least 50 books this year. If I am able to read more then that I will be thrilled.

I have both Stargirl and Here's to You, Rachel Robinson, but for some strange reason, haven't read either one (though I did start HtYRR years back and forgot about it). Do you plan on reading Just as Long as We're Together, the previous books to Here's to You...? I'm not sure if it's necessary to read the two together, but I still remember Just as Long... being one of my favorite Judy Blume books. I'll have to look around for my copy of Here's to You... and start it. Thanks!

Oh, I'm sure you'll hit 50. It's only the beginning of December. You'll make it. No sweat. :)

Finished another book. It was a romance this time. Look for my review later on It Happened One Wedding Night by Karen Hughes.

Thanks Sara, for the encouragement of making 50 books. I wold love to finish this challenge too. I am going till about Jan. 14th 2010 so we will see how much I can read over the Christmas holiday. I just need some snow so that I am off from work. I will have to see if I have Just as Long as We're Together or see if I can find it at the library. I may read it at some point. I do enjoy Judy Blume's books.

(mentally pushing all our expected snow your way) Hope that helps some. And don't worry about returning it. It's aallll yours (j/k). ;)

That's good you're not cutting off right at Dec 31. It makes the challenge a little less like punishment. But now I can't help but wonder how many last-minute challengers are going to stay up till midnight on the 31st to finish their 50th/75th/etc book. LOL! I'll bet there will be some out there. Not me, of course. (eye roll)

Sorry for the rambling. :) And speaking of Judy Blume (who I just love, too), I'll have to add the few unread books I have by her to one of my challenges next year. It's about time I finish all of her books, starting with Here's to You, Rachel Robinson. Thanks for the idea!

OH I hope we get your snow. I would love to start my Christmas break a little early. I looked at the date that I started this challenge and figured I may as well go for a full year. I don't plan to be up till midnight just to finish this challenge. Don't worry about the rambling. I do it too. I use to read Judy Blume books when I was much younger and I keep saying I need to read some of them again and the ones I haven't read. I am glad I read Here's to You, Rachel Robinson. I remember reading Are You There God It's Me Margaret. I love that book by Judy Blume. Now on to my review of my last book:

#46. It Happened One Wedding Night by Karen Hughes

A story of a woman, Daisy Harding, who feels her biological clock is ticking away so she decides to loose her virginity to a sexy rodeo guy, Ryder Redstone, at her sister's wedding. When she finds out that she is with child she decides that the father doesn't need to know. She works as a school teacher at and they are not happy when they learn she is with child and is not married. She quits her job and goes to visit her sister and brother-in-law. Unbeknownst to Daisy, Ryder is helping at her sister's farm. You can tell that Daisy and Ryder are drawn to each other but both are afraid to admit it. Her sister and brother-in-law can tell the attraction is there and do try to get them to admit it.

4 1/2 stars

#47. Truly, Madly: A Novel by Heather Webber

Truly, Madly is an awesome book. I hated to put the book down. The story of Lucy Valentine and her family business. She has an unique ability that only her family knows about. Her family has a secret for their matchmaking business success which Lucy looses after an electrical storm. Even though she looses the family ability to see auras Lucy develops a new ability that she is unsure of how to handle.

Lucy has to take over the family business while her father recovers from a heart attack. She is reluctant because she doesn't feel she has the ability to be a successful matchmaker. Truly Madly is an entertaining, enjoyable read as there is mystery, romance, suspense and humor all in one book. Lucy meets a sexy ex-firefighter that just sends sparks through her. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.

5 stars

#48. Look Great, Live green by Deborah Burnes

When I first started this book I thought it was just going to be someone trying to tell me how I should be using certain types of personal care products and pushing their own products on me. I was truly mistaken. Look Great, Live Green is a book that teaches and informs you of the misconceptions we have been raised to believe. I found the book well written and easy to follow while reading.

If you are trying to figure out why your skin keeps looking older, dryer or just not what you are use it is most likely due to the so called 'natural' products you are currently using. Most of the cosmetics out there are not as natural as you may think. I learned that some of the products that I have now are not as natural as I thought. Anyone that is interested in saving money, time, their skin, and the environment should take a look at this book.

Deborah Burnes has her own line of personal care products that are natural. She did not force her products on you as you read the book. Deborah rates products from, Good, Better and Best. Some categories do just have Better or Best because she felt that was adequate. She also tells you not to try and change everything at once, you need to find your comfort zone and the products that are right for you.

There is a chapter on recipes to create your own natural products which I hope to try sometime. The end of the book lists resources to do research on your own. There is also a section that lists the natural products and there benefits plus a list of toxic ingredients and the cautions on how to handle them, if they are accidentally ingested or make contact with certain parts of the body and some diseases they are linked to. Now just reading those sections makes me not want to use the non natural products just out of fear of really causing severe injuries.

5 stars

#49. Highland Hearts by Virginia Brown

I finally finished this book. This book took me awhile to get into the characters and just the story itself. This book started off slow for me with not much action or love interest. Once the story got interesting I was able to read the book without feeling like a chore.

This is the story of a Scottish Lass named Lianna. She is a proper lass and educated, she is just a naive young lady about life, relationships and the such. Lianna and her cousin Mary are watching these soldiers march into Glencoe when Lianna falls into the arms of a very handsome Scottish fellow, Cameron. Right from that moment you know that they have feelings for each other but it felt so boring.

Once the massacre happens at Glencoe is when the love and romance really start to show and bloom. Lianna and Cameron are trying to survive in the highlands while a blizzard is happening. This is when the story moved for me, most of the time. I skipped a lot of the little descriptions about their surroundings because it felt very boring and not interesting at all.

2 1/2 stars

#50. Charlotte's Web by E. B. White

I probably read this book when I was younger if I didn't then shame on me. I love this story a lot. I enjoyed the talking animals and the interaction of them with each other. The goose and gander are so charming with their talk, talk, talk.

This is a must read for all children when they are growing up. If you never read the book just take an afternoon to read this story. It will only take a few hours if you read slower then most.

5 stars

I loved Charlotte's Web too (well, still do :).

#51. American Wife by Curtis Sittenfeld

American Wife is a book I don't feel I would have read on my own. This book was chosen for my Library Book Club. I was quite pleased with the story. American Wife chronicles the life of a girl, Alice Lindgren, whom has become the First Lady. American Wife is written in 4 parts, each part represents where she was living at that time. The story takes place from the 1950's to about 2007.

The first part is her young childhood through about her college years. She gos through a lot during her young life. She discovers her grandmother is a lesbian, has an abortion and is involved in an accident that kills the boy she has feelings for at this time. The story starts with Alice and her grandmother running into a child from her class and her grandmother thinks the child is a girl when actually the child is a boy. The boy's name is Andrew Imhof. When Alice travels to Chicago with her grandmother is when I really felt the story had drawn me in. I wanted to know what was going to happen next from that moment on.

The next parts are defining moments in Alice's life. She is a librarian at an elementary school and loves to read. It was wonderful to see so many books mentioned throughout this novel. You are introduced to the men that she dates and ultimately her husband. I loved how their romance blossomed in a very short time and they knew how much they loved each other.

4 1/2 stars

I have 4 more days to count my books. I know I won't make 81 books but I am still thrilled with what I read this year.

I am doing the 1010 challenge. You can check out my thread here: http://www.librarything.com/topic/74938

Well I hope to see most of you over at the 1010 challenge or any of the other challenges I am doing. Happy Reading all!!

I have finished 2 more books and I am saying that I am done with this challenge since I only have 2 days left to read books. I read The Picture of Dorian Gray and You did it for Me: Friendship and Kindness so that brings my total up to 53 or 65% of my challenge completed. I am glad to have done this challenge and look forward to seeing most of you over at the 1010 challenge. Happy Reading!!

Happy Reading! See you at the 1010