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Goddess in the Stacks (553 KP) rated The Astonishing Color of After in Books
Mar 29, 2018
Evocative descriptions (1 more)
Good characters
Just WOW. The Astonishing Color of After is about a teenage girl, an artist, dealing with her mother's depression and ensuing suicide. Part of what makes the book so fascinating is Leigh's constant description of colors. She uses color as shorthand for emotions - her grandmother might have a vermilion expression on her face, or she might be feeling very orange while staring at her mother's coffin at the funeral. Between colors-as-feelings and her insomnia-induced hallucinations (or magic - the book is deliberately, I think, noncommittal on whether some things only happen in her head or not) the entire book feels a little surrealistic. But grief and mourning DO feel surrealistic. The book is amazingly evocative and emotional and I absolutely adore it. This, along with City of Brass and Children of Blood and Bone, are definitely on my Best of 2018 list.
As an added bonus, the author is the American child of Taiwanese immigrants herself. So all the ghost traditions and folklore from Leigh's journey to Taiwan are from her ancestry as well.
This book was gorgeous. It may need a trigger warning for depression and suicide. If you can handle those themes, read it.
You can find all my reviews at http://goddessinthestacks.wordpress.com
As an added bonus, the author is the American child of Taiwanese immigrants herself. So all the ghost traditions and folklore from Leigh's journey to Taiwan are from her ancestry as well.
This book was gorgeous. It may need a trigger warning for depression and suicide. If you can handle those themes, read it.
You can find all my reviews at http://goddessinthestacks.wordpress.com
Erika Kehlet (21 KP) rated The Medici Boy in Books
Feb 21, 2018
**NOTE: I was generously provided with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**
After reading the title, The Medici Boy, I expected this to mainly be a novel about the Medicis. While they do play a part, the story focuses on Donatello and his infatuation with the young model/prostitute Agnolo (the titular "Medici Boy"), who poses for his bronze "David and Goliath". The whole thing is told to us in the form of a final written memoir by Luca Mattei, one of Donatello's assistants, as he nears the end of his days imprisoned for a murder that he committed out of love for his friend Donatello.
I have mixed feelings about this book. I had a hard time relating to most of the characters in this story, and the lack of action caused the book to feel somewhat slow at times, but it is very well written. The descriptions of Florence and her history, and the detailed references to Donatello's artistic processes were interesting and seem to have been very well researched.
Students of art history and those who have an interest in the Renaissance or Italian history in general should really enjoy this book.
After reading the title, The Medici Boy, I expected this to mainly be a novel about the Medicis. While they do play a part, the story focuses on Donatello and his infatuation with the young model/prostitute Agnolo (the titular "Medici Boy"), who poses for his bronze "David and Goliath". The whole thing is told to us in the form of a final written memoir by Luca Mattei, one of Donatello's assistants, as he nears the end of his days imprisoned for a murder that he committed out of love for his friend Donatello.
I have mixed feelings about this book. I had a hard time relating to most of the characters in this story, and the lack of action caused the book to feel somewhat slow at times, but it is very well written. The descriptions of Florence and her history, and the detailed references to Donatello's artistic processes were interesting and seem to have been very well researched.
Students of art history and those who have an interest in the Renaissance or Italian history in general should really enjoy this book.
Nicole Hadley (380 KP) rated Once Upon a Tree in Books
Jun 18, 2018
Once Upon a Tree by Dawn Jarocki, and Soren Kisiel is a encouraging tale about a leaf who struggles to accept and express himself. The leaf is happy being a leaf at the top of a tree until one day when he begins to question his purpose. A bird living in the tree learns to fly, and the leaf wonders if he should also fly. Soon a caterpillar arrives and cocoons itself, later turning into a beautiful butterfly. Again the leaf wonders if he should fly. The bird and butterfly encourage the leaf to look within for the answers, and to trust and follow his feelings. Eventually the leaf decides to fly in his own way by letting go of the tree branch and floating gracefully into the autumn wind.
The watercolor illustrations are soft and gently expressive, and convey a nurturing and encouraging warmth that flows beautifully with the story. The idea that everyone naturally has a unique purpose, and that this is revealed from within when we are ready, is a hopeful and deeply affirming message for children.
I recommend this book for children and for parents/ teachers/ grandparents to read to children.
I received an ARC from NetGalley via Parallax Press and Plum Blossom in exchange for an honest review.
The watercolor illustrations are soft and gently expressive, and convey a nurturing and encouraging warmth that flows beautifully with the story. The idea that everyone naturally has a unique purpose, and that this is revealed from within when we are ready, is a hopeful and deeply affirming message for children.
I recommend this book for children and for parents/ teachers/ grandparents to read to children.
I received an ARC from NetGalley via Parallax Press and Plum Blossom in exchange for an honest review.
Kristin (149 KP) rated Flawed Perfection (Eve Sumptor, #2) in Books
Dec 7, 2018
Disclaimer: I received an e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
We continue where we left off with Eve, Adam, and Lainey. This one is written more from Eve's perspective, which I greatly enjoyed, and we get to keep reading about Eve's new marriage to Adam and their sweet baby girl, Bella. Unfortunately, they don't stay happy-go-lucky for very long, as once again there's trouble afoot for Eve. It starts when some of her newly-acquired paintings go missing, and the ones that do make it to the gallery are forgeries! While trying to figure out this mystery, Eve gets pulled into yet another game of cat and mouse, one that she may not be able to win.
This is a great series, and the relationships are easy to identify with. Eve is in love with Adam, Lainey is in love with Jack, but Eve and Lainey both love each other. Now that it's been two years, we can see how they've changed, but we also get to go along with them as they try to cope with the feelings that still exist between them. How will they handle it while dealing with this new and dangerous conflict? You'll have to read that for yourself.
4 1/2 stars
We continue where we left off with Eve, Adam, and Lainey. This one is written more from Eve's perspective, which I greatly enjoyed, and we get to keep reading about Eve's new marriage to Adam and their sweet baby girl, Bella. Unfortunately, they don't stay happy-go-lucky for very long, as once again there's trouble afoot for Eve. It starts when some of her newly-acquired paintings go missing, and the ones that do make it to the gallery are forgeries! While trying to figure out this mystery, Eve gets pulled into yet another game of cat and mouse, one that she may not be able to win.
This is a great series, and the relationships are easy to identify with. Eve is in love with Adam, Lainey is in love with Jack, but Eve and Lainey both love each other. Now that it's been two years, we can see how they've changed, but we also get to go along with them as they try to cope with the feelings that still exist between them. How will they handle it while dealing with this new and dangerous conflict? You'll have to read that for yourself.
4 1/2 stars
Sarah (126 KP) rated The Martian (2015) in Movies
Jul 30, 2018
Brilliant Movie
I honestly didn't expect to enjoy this film half as much as I did. It wasn't my choice to watch and one I put off until we couldn't think of anything else to put on one night.
In fact, I actually loved it! I laughed, my heart was racing with fear and excitement, and I cried for the character played by Matt Damon and the struggles he faced.
The premise doesn't sound particularly thrilling, one man stranded alone on a planet, and yet seeing how he copes with the difficulties thrown at him and the problems that he and the team trying to get him home have to overcome make it an extremely watchable and enjoyable film.
I've watched this now a few times and, even though I know what's coming and how it ends, I still get the same feelings of apprehension and relief, and I've still cried at exactly the same points.
I normally shy away from giving a 10/10, as there's always something that can be improved, but (bearing in mind I haven't read the book of this one, so can't put the film into context in that regard), I don't think there's anything I would change about this.
In fact, I actually loved it! I laughed, my heart was racing with fear and excitement, and I cried for the character played by Matt Damon and the struggles he faced.
The premise doesn't sound particularly thrilling, one man stranded alone on a planet, and yet seeing how he copes with the difficulties thrown at him and the problems that he and the team trying to get him home have to overcome make it an extremely watchable and enjoyable film.
I've watched this now a few times and, even though I know what's coming and how it ends, I still get the same feelings of apprehension and relief, and I've still cried at exactly the same points.
I normally shy away from giving a 10/10, as there's always something that can be improved, but (bearing in mind I haven't read the book of this one, so can't put the film into context in that regard), I don't think there's anything I would change about this.
Jarom Solar Norris (186 KP) rated Crazy Rich Asians (2018) in Movies
Sep 6, 2018 (Updated Feb 13, 2019)
I loved Crazy Rich Asians for a bunch of reasons. First of all, it’s a love story, and a pretty good one. The other day I was watching a RomCom and I thought to myself “Not enough of these start with the people having already met each other but having to get over an issue that actually deepens their love instead of sparking it.” But that’s actually what Crazy Rich Asians is. Second, the characters are all so unique and memorable, they all fit into the movie while also standing out. Even the characters that are marginal or antagonists are pretty lovable. Third, the movie is beautiful. Shots of Singapore are awesome, there’s so much color in the set dressing and the costuming, all of it works together in a way that accents the feelings of the movie. And finally, it’s completely unique. There were times when I actually felt like an outsider, something that can only happen when a movie is made by and for people that aren’t like me. Obviously, that means I can’t speak to how well Asian and Asian-American culture was actually portrayed, but based on reactions I’ve seen, it seems like it did pretty good. My one problem is that everyone in the movie seemed almost too attractive.
Dominique Marie (7 KP) rated The Princess Diarist in Books
Nov 28, 2018 (Updated Nov 28, 2018)
MMD Reading Challenge 2017- For Fun
Category: Book in a genre you usually avoid
I avoid celebrity memoirs, mostly because I feel that I can get enough celebrity news from the internet and tv. I don't want to read books about that subject in most cases. I chose The Princess Diarist because I love Star Wars, and this memoir takes place during the filming. I had very mixed feelings about this book. Fisher is hilarious and relatable, at times far to crass for my liking, but candid. Her diaries from when she was young were probably the most interesting part to me. Her affair with Harrison was just so heartbreaking to me. She tries to defend him, but I think it's awful. Right after he "rescues" her from some co-workers who have gotten her plastered, he takes her into his car and makes out with her. He was 15 years older than her, and married with two kids. It was also heartbreaking because she idolized him so much. The contrast between her diaries and her current thoughts made for a good read, but I can't say that I really liked it, or really hated it. It was just such a mixed bag for me.
Category: Book in a genre you usually avoid
I avoid celebrity memoirs, mostly because I feel that I can get enough celebrity news from the internet and tv. I don't want to read books about that subject in most cases. I chose The Princess Diarist because I love Star Wars, and this memoir takes place during the filming. I had very mixed feelings about this book. Fisher is hilarious and relatable, at times far to crass for my liking, but candid. Her diaries from when she was young were probably the most interesting part to me. Her affair with Harrison was just so heartbreaking to me. She tries to defend him, but I think it's awful. Right after he "rescues" her from some co-workers who have gotten her plastered, he takes her into his car and makes out with her. He was 15 years older than her, and married with two kids. It was also heartbreaking because she idolized him so much. The contrast between her diaries and her current thoughts made for a good read, but I can't say that I really liked it, or really hated it. It was just such a mixed bag for me.
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Panic Attack - Single by Harriet Manice in Music
Jun 18, 2019
Harriet Manice is a singer-songwriter and photographer based in New York City. Not too long ago, she released a charming pop tune, entitled, “Panic Attack”.
“‘Panic Attack’ is a blend of Nashville storytelling and popular music. With a mix of acoustic and electronic instruments. The song provides the feelings one can go through dealing with anxiety and panic attacks. While the song raises an emotional and intense topic, the music generally stays upbeat, to give the hope that everything will be ok in the end. Just keep breathing in and breathing out.” – Harriet Manice
‘Panic Attack’ contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and lush instrumentation flavored with a commercial pop aroma.
“What is happening? I can barely breathe. Feel the room is spinning quicking ’round me. Is this just a dream. Am I still asleep? Tell me how to stop this insanity.” – lyrics
This past year, Harriet Manice had the opportunity to perform at venues such as The Bitter End, Rockwood Music Hall, Sidewalk Cafe, Prohibition in New York City, and Jane Pickens Theatre and The Breakers in Newport, RI.
She grew up listening to James Taylor, Eric Clapton, Simon & Garfunkel, Jim Croce, The Dixie Chicks, Whitney Houston, Christina Aguilera, Mariah Carey, and Celine Dion.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/harriet-manice-panic-attack/
“‘Panic Attack’ is a blend of Nashville storytelling and popular music. With a mix of acoustic and electronic instruments. The song provides the feelings one can go through dealing with anxiety and panic attacks. While the song raises an emotional and intense topic, the music generally stays upbeat, to give the hope that everything will be ok in the end. Just keep breathing in and breathing out.” – Harriet Manice
‘Panic Attack’ contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and lush instrumentation flavored with a commercial pop aroma.
“What is happening? I can barely breathe. Feel the room is spinning quicking ’round me. Is this just a dream. Am I still asleep? Tell me how to stop this insanity.” – lyrics
This past year, Harriet Manice had the opportunity to perform at venues such as The Bitter End, Rockwood Music Hall, Sidewalk Cafe, Prohibition in New York City, and Jane Pickens Theatre and The Breakers in Newport, RI.
She grew up listening to James Taylor, Eric Clapton, Simon & Garfunkel, Jim Croce, The Dixie Chicks, Whitney Houston, Christina Aguilera, Mariah Carey, and Celine Dion.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/harriet-manice-panic-attack/
BookwormMama14 (18 KP) rated Always Watching (Elite Guardians, #1) in Books
Jan 2, 2019
Can I just say...Listening to this was creepier than if I had read it...Especially when I was in the car, alone, at night...in the middle of no where....Maybe not one of my smartest ideas.
That being said...this was a great story. Interesting characters, intense story line, and a healthy dose of creepy-stalkerness. Heart pounding scenes, swoon worthy kisses, and the leading woman is totally my hero! Olivia is a member of a team of body guards. And all the women on the team are incredible. I can't wait to read the rest of their stories now. Olivia's past has things that haunt her, that have changed her, shaped her into the protective, intelligent, woman that she is. I loved watching her grapple with her faith, her feelings for Wade, and letting God heal the broken areas of her life.
If you are looking for a different and unique book, this should hit the mark for you! And don't forget to check out the rest of the series.
I borrowed the audio version of this book from my local library. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
That being said...this was a great story. Interesting characters, intense story line, and a healthy dose of creepy-stalkerness. Heart pounding scenes, swoon worthy kisses, and the leading woman is totally my hero! Olivia is a member of a team of body guards. And all the women on the team are incredible. I can't wait to read the rest of their stories now. Olivia's past has things that haunt her, that have changed her, shaped her into the protective, intelligent, woman that she is. I loved watching her grapple with her faith, her feelings for Wade, and letting God heal the broken areas of her life.
If you are looking for a different and unique book, this should hit the mark for you! And don't forget to check out the rest of the series.
I borrowed the audio version of this book from my local library. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Kelly (279 KP) rated Surviving the Evacuation: London in Books
Jan 11, 2019
An interesting first person insight into the Zombie Apocalypse
Contains spoilers, click to show
I confess I only downloaded this book originally because it was free on kindle, however, that being said, I was surprised at how good it was.
The story is written in diary form by fictional character Bill Wright. Similar to Rock Grimes (Walking Dead), Bill missed the initial apocalypse due to injury. His government links tried to rescue him during the evacuation, however, at the last stage the chauffeur fails. The story primarily centres around Bills attempts to escape London on his own, with a leg in cast, without falling victim to the Zombie virus.
The use of a diary to move the story forward is a different approach to most Zombie books, and allows us to to have a greater insight into the thoughts and feelings of the main character in hindsight of the events.
If you are looking for an in-depth and complex book, this is not the book for you, however if you are looking for a quick easy read on the go, I highly recommend this. I have already downloaded the sequel to this story (not free) in order to find out what is next in store for Bill.
The story is written in diary form by fictional character Bill Wright. Similar to Rock Grimes (Walking Dead), Bill missed the initial apocalypse due to injury. His government links tried to rescue him during the evacuation, however, at the last stage the chauffeur fails. The story primarily centres around Bills attempts to escape London on his own, with a leg in cast, without falling victim to the Zombie virus.
The use of a diary to move the story forward is a different approach to most Zombie books, and allows us to to have a greater insight into the thoughts and feelings of the main character in hindsight of the events.
If you are looking for an in-depth and complex book, this is not the book for you, however if you are looking for a quick easy read on the go, I highly recommend this. I have already downloaded the sequel to this story (not free) in order to find out what is next in store for Bill.