Jill over at Breaking the Spine started this and I believe that it's awesome" This blog post is to alert those that visit about "the" book that we cannot wait to get our hands on.

This week I have Selected Blood and Flowers by Penny Blubaugh. The cover has a cirque de soleil/flashback sixties feel that is attention grabbing. The synopsis is charged with adventure and romance and I cannot wait to read it.

Three years ago, Persia ran away from her drug-addict parents and found a home with the Outlaws, an underground theater troupe. With time, this motley band of mortals and fey, puppeteers and actors, becomes the loving family Persia never had, and soon Persia not only discovers a passion for theater but also falls in love with one of the other Outlaws. Life could not be more perfect.

Until an enemy makes an unfair accusation against the group and forces them to flee their world and hide in the neighboring realm of Faerie. But in Faerie, all is not flowers and rainbows. With bloodthirsty trolls, a hostile monarchy, and a dangerous code of magic, the fey world is far from the safe haven the Outlaws had hoped for....

TORMENT TOUR:

San Francisco:
Tuesday, September 28th–Barnes & Noble, El Cerrito, CA at 6:30 PM
Wednesday, September 29th–Kepler’s, 7pm

Seattle:
Thursday, September 30th–University Bookstore in Mill Creek at 6:30 PM
Friday, October 1st–Borders in Redmond, WA at 7pm

Portland:
Saturday, October 2nd–Powell’s in Cedar Hills at 2:00 PM
AND Barnes & Noble in Clackamas, OR at 7:00 PM

Orange County, CA:
Sunday, October 3rd–Orange County Book Festival at 11:00 AM

Atlanta:
Monday, October 4th–Barnes & Noble in Alpharetta, GA at 7:00 PM
Tuesday, October 5th–Books-A-Million in Discover Mills (time TBA)

Memphis:
Wednesday, October 6th–Davis-Kidd at 6:00 PM
Thursday, October 7th–Barnes and Noble at 7:00 PM

Nashville:
Friday, October 8th–Davis-Kidd at 4:00 PM
Saturday, October 9th–Southern Festival of Books

New York:
Monday, October 11th–Barnes & Noble in Carle Place, NY at 7:00 PM
Tuesday, October 12th–Borders in Westbury, NY at 7:00 PM

Chicago:
Wednesday, October 13th–Anderson’s in Naperville, IL at 7:00 PM
Thursday, October 14th–Borders in Schaumburg, IL at 7:00 PM

UK:
Monday, October 18th-Sunday October 24th
Details TBA!

Los Angeles Area:
Tuesday, November 9th–Mrs. Nelson’s at 4:00 PM
Thursday, November 11th–Barnes and Noble in Glendale at 7:00 PM
Saturday, November 13th–Vroman’s at 4:00 PM
Monday, November 15th–Flintridge Bookstore at 3:30 PM

Manifesto

By Ellen Hopkins

To you zealots and bigots and false
patriots who live in fear of discourse.
You screamers and banners and burners
who would force books
off shelves in your brand name
of greater good.

You say you’re afraid for children,
innocents ripe for corruption
by perversion or sorcery on the page.
But sticks and stones do break
bones, and ignorance is no armor.
You do not speak for me,
and will not deny my kids magic
in favor of miracles.

You say you’re afraid for America,
the red, white and blue corroded
by terrorists, socialists, the sexually
confused. But we are a vast quilt
of patchwork cultures and multi-gendered
identities. You cannot speak for those
whose ancestors braved
different seas.

You say you’re afraid for God,
the living word eroded by Muhammed
and Darwin and Magdalene.
But the omnipotent sculptor of heaven
and earth designed intelligence.
Surely you dare not speak
for the father, who opens
his arms to all.

A word to the unwise.
Torch every book.
Char every page.
Burn every word to ash.
Ideas are incombustible.
And therein lies your real fear.

I think this poem that Ellen Hopkins penned last year for BANNED BOOKS WEEK speaks volume's and I feel it fits perfectly for this contest honoring this author and BANNED BOOKS WEEK 2010.

Please fill out a contest entry form HERE for a signed copy of CRANK, GLASS and FALLOUT. This contest is open for 2 weeks ending October 10th at midnight PST

HERE is a map that shows you where all the BANNED BOOKS are located in the states and which books are banned. Check and see if one of your favorites books is listed.

THE DUFF by Kody Keplinger

Reading level: Young Adult

Hardcover: 288 pages

Publisher: Poppy (September 7, 2010)

Language: English

Author Website: Kody Keplinger

Rating: YYY

Seventeen-year-old Bianca Piper is cynical and loyal, and she doesn't think she's the prettiest of her friends by a long shot. She's also way too
smart to fall for the charms of man-slut and slimy school hottie Wesley Rush. In fact, Bianca hates him. And when he nicknames her "Duffy," she throws her Coke in his face.

But things aren't so great at home right now. Desperate for a distraction, Bianca ends up kissing Wesley. And likes it. Eager for escape, she throws herself into a closeted enemies-with-benefits relationship with Wesley.

Until it all goes horribly awry. It turns out that Wesley isn't
such a bad listener, and his life is pretty screwed up, too. Suddenly Bianca realizes with absolute horror that she's falling for the guy she thought she hated more than anyone.

REVIEW

It has been a while since I have read a book that I found as witty, entertaining and blush worthy as I have found in THE DUFF. There were some great moments that I really enjoyed and found quite memorable while there were equal amounts of moments that I was left shaking my head in wonder.

When I originally completed this book I had some serious love, like I wanna read it again right now love. I was telling all my friends about it and I could not get it out of my head and that's when I really started to go over THE DUFF in my mind. Why did I enjoy it so much? So, as I began to dissect this story I realized that I had a few issues that I almost let get past me. It is not to dispel that I enjoyed the story any less, because believe me I did, but I had some questions in regards to it's main character Bianca and how her idea of therapy could be considered O.K.

So, here you have this witty and intelligent girl named Bianca that one evening gets called THE DUFF (Designated Ugly Fat Friend) by the school hottie and resident "man whore". She let's him have it with her cherry coke only to let him have all of her soon therafter. Now would you get all naked and sweaty with the guy that just called you THE DUFF? Me. No. Think. So. And would you continue to do so as like some addict on crack? to avoid the troubles your home life? Hmmm....It does make me wonder. I know that many of us like to hide from our issues and sometimes create other distractions to avoid what is really wrong within our lives and Bianca's actions in THE DUFF are a perfect example of this train of thought. Just because she is a really smart girl it does not mean that she is not prone to human weakness, but I don't find her reasons and actions overly convincing.

I cannot lie and say that I did not enjoy the banter between Bianca and Wesley, their verbal foreplay was illicit and fun. I found his need to understand and listen to Bianca somewhat endearing yet far fetched but within the theme of this book's reality, his actions fit. Even his continual use of the endearment "Duffy" caused me to cringe and wonder why that girl would still have sex with him???

Besides the blushworthy moments, THE DUFF does delve into some serious subject matter that gets glossed over and I would have believed to have been played out differently. Maybe I am asking for too much because I considered THE DUFF to be an entertaing story and I was totally carried away by it's lustful moments and witty dialogue, but beneath it's surface I found it a bit lacking.

THE DUFF is a book that is sexually charged without being overly explicit, dancing on the edge of reality but entertaining nonetheless. If you can get past certain issues and take it for the fun read that is then it is worth your time.

PLAIN KATE by Erin Bow

Reading level: Young Adult

Hardcover: 336 pages

Publisher: Arthur A. Levine Books (September 1, 2010)

Language: English

Author Website: ERIN BOW

Sneek Peak: First Chapter

Rating: YYYY

Plain Kate lives in a world of superstitions and curses, where a song can heal a wound and a shadow can work deep magic. As the wood-carver's daughter, Kate held
a carving knife before a spoon, and her wooden charms are so fine that some even call her "witch-blade" -- a dangerous nickname in a town where witches are hunted and burned in the square.

For Kate and her village have fallen on hard times. Kate's father has died, leaving her alone in the world. And a mysterious fog now covers the countryside, ruining crops and spreading fear of hunger and sickness. The townspeople are looking for someone to blame, and their eyes have fallen on Kate.

Enter Linay, a stranger with a proposition: In exchange for her shadow, he'll give Kate the means to escape the town that seems set to burn her, and what's more, he'll grant her heart's wish. It's a chance for her to start over, to find a home, a family, a place to belong. But Kate soon realizes that she can't live shadowless forever -- and that Linay's designs are darker than she ever dreamed.

REVIEW

PLAIN KATE is an exceptional read, steeped in Russian folklore that gradually unfolds before your very eyes to reveal a story that is interwoven with magic, poetry and wonder. Erin Bow has crafted a haunting and darkly mysterious tale that presents a strong and unique heroine proving that "Plain Kate" is anything but plain.

PLAIN KATE centers it's story on a girl named for the books title, a young girl with no family, home and after a dark promise with a nefarious musician, left shadowless. Yet, regardless of how obscure and dismal Kate's life appeared to me, I was not given time to pity her because "Plain Kate" with her quiet strength and talented hands did not let her present situation set her fate in stone. Kate's discovers, with supreme horror where her shadow is and what is being used for and that knowledge leaves her with only one choice....a choice that can ultimately kill her.

I read PLAIN KATE on the recommendation of another (thank you! Pam) and it was not long before I was engrossed within it's pages. I loved the superstitious and campfire-like story telling that had my total concentration. I felt as if I was transported, floating on the melodious words that gave this story it's soul. Among it's many memorable characters, Taggle the talking cat, had some of the best lines and moments and it always brought forth a chuckle whenever he was on the pages. Erin Bow did a remarkable job with this story especially in regards to Linay and his melodous songs that were poetically magical.

PLAIN KATE is a great story full of adventure and magic without the trappings of romance that can overwhelm and detract a story from it's true course. If you seeking a story that is has a strong heroine, that is rich in folkloric story telling with somber and bright moments then this is a great read that will have all of your attention and awe.

PLAIN KATE VIDEO that is made of awesome

MOCKINGJAY contest winners

Sorry for the delay in this post it has been a busy week and I am off to the post office to send the prizes to the contest winners.

1) Jessica Kennedy
2) Kate Garrabrant
3) Katelyn Burgess
4) Yan Lin
5) Jessica Estep

Congratulations to all the winners and a big THANK YOU! to all the entrants.

Sneak a Peek Saturday is a feature that lets you "peek" into an upcoming book. Sometimes it is a chapter or two and maybe less.

This week I have selected WITHER by Lauren Destefano. Dystopian novels have been on the rise for a while now and I am so glad because these darker edged stories have been wonderfully engaging and thought provoking. After reading the synopsis for WITHER I was hooked and now an excerpt is available, just click on the book cover a little peek.

Thanks to modern science, every human being has become a ticking genetic time bomb—males only live to age twenty-five, and females only live to age twenty. In this bleak landscape, young girls are kidnapped and forced into polygamous marriages to keep the population from dying out.

When sixteen-year-old Rhine Ellery is taken by the Gatherers to become a bride, she enters a world of wealth and privilege. Despite her husband Linden's genuine love for her, and a tenuous trust among her sister wives, Rhine has one purpose: to escape—to find her twin brother and go home.

But Rhine has more to contend with than losing her freedom. Linden's eccentric father is bent on finding an antidote to the genetic virus that is getting closer to taking his son, even if it means collecting corpses in order to test his experiments. With the help of Gabriel, a servant she trusts, Rhine attempts to break free, in the limited time she has left.

Happy Friday! and this Friday is extra special because I am helping author Tera Lynn Childs revel the cover to her upcoming novel FINS ARE FOREVER due to swim out your way June 28, 2011. And without further delay.....

FINS ARE FOREVER

Warning: Contains Forgive My Fins spoilers.

On Lily Sanderson’s eighteenth birthday she’ll become just a girl—still a mer girl, true, but signing the renunciation paperwork will ink Princess Waterlily of Thalassinia out of existence. That leaves plain old Lily living on land, dating the boy she loves, and trying to master this being human thing once and for all.

Now that Lily and Quince are together, mer-bond or not, she’s almost content to give up her place in the royal succession of Thalassinia. But just when she thinks she has everything figured out, Lily’s father sends a certain whirlpool-stirring cousin to stay with her on land. What did Doe do to get herself exiled from Thalassinia and stuck in terraped form, when everyone knows how much she hates humans? And why why why is she batting her eyelashes at Lily’s former crush, Brody?

The seafoam on the surf comes when a merboy from Lily’s past shows up. Tellin asks Lily for something that clouds her view of the horizon. There’s a future with Quince on land, her loyalty to the kingdom in the sea, and Lily tossing on the waves in the middle. Will she find a way to reconcile her love, her duty, and her dreams?

Please grab the cool widget and use it on your blog.

Jill over at Breaking the Spine started this and I believe that it's awesome" This blog post is to alert those that visit about "the" book that we cannot wait to get our hands on.

This week I have selected a WOW that has me biting at the bit to read it. As I have noted Dystopian novels are clearly here to stay and some have been truly remarkable and thought provoking. DIVERGENT by Veronica Roth is an up and coming novel that will surely entice fans of The Hunger Games and Matched.

DIVERGENT May 2011

In Beatrice Prior’s dystopian Chicago world, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue—Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. For Beatrice, the decision is between staying with her family and being who she really is—she can’t have both. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself.

During the highly competitive initiation that follows, Beatrice renames herself Tris, and struggles alongside her fellow initiates to live out the choice they have made. Together, they must undergo extreme physical tests of endurance and intense psychological simulations, some with devastating consequences. As initiation transforms them all, Tris must determine who her friends really are—and where, exactly, a romance with a sometimes-fascinating, sometimes-exasperating boy fits into the life she’s chosen. But Tris also has a secret: one she’s kept hidden from everyone, because she’s been warned it can mean death. And as she discovers unrest and growing conflict that threatens to unravel her seemingly-perfect society, she also learns that her secret might be what helps her save those she loves . . . or it might be what destroys her.

Today I have an awesome contest that I am sure everyone will enjoy. Two (2) lucky winner will receive a copy of Hush, Hush. Just fill out the contest form below and GOOD LUCK to all entrants.

Book Synopses:

Hush, Hush – In paperback September 21

A sacred oath, a fallen angel, a forbidden love.

Nora Grey has had a rough year. Her father was murdered and as a result, her mother had thrown herself into work, leaving Nora alone most of the time in their secluded farmhouse. Despite this, she manages to be a very good girl, never missing school, never even driving without permission.

But when the transfer student, Patch, gets assigned as her lab partner in biology, from the moment the two are together, there's an inescapable magnetism that draws Nora deeper and deeper into his dark world. When she discovers the enormous V-shaped scars on his back, she discovers that there is a battle going on between the fallen and the immortal. And she's the object.

The magnetism she feels is now more inescapable than ever.

Crescendo – Available October 19

The sequel to the New York Times Best selling phenomenon, Hush, Hush!

Nora should have know her life was far from perfect. Despite starting a relationship with her guardian angel, Patch (who, title aside, can be described anything but angelic), and surviving an attempt on her life, things are not looking up. Patch is starting to pull away and Nora can't figure out if it's for her best interest or if his interest has shifted to her arch-enemy Marcie Millar. Not to mention that Nora is haunted by images of her father and she becomes obsessed with finding out what really happened to him that night he left for Portland and never came home.

The farther Nora delves into the mystery of her father's death, the more she comes to question if her Nephilim blood line has something to do with it as well as why she seems to be in danger more than the average girl. Since Patch isn't answering her questions and seems to be standing in her way, she has to start finding the answers on her own. Relying too heavily on the fact that she has a guardian angel puts Nora at risk again and again. But can she really count on Patch or is he hiding secrets darker than she can even imagine?

HUSH, HUSH


Contest Books supplied by Simon and Schuster

I am here to announce the contest winners for CLOCKWORK ANGEL

CLOCKWORK ANGEL WINNERS

Linda from The Optimistic Pessimist Blog
Lea from YA Book Queen


CONGRATULATIONS !!

I rarely get on my soapbox to let people know how I feel about...ASSHATS! An Asshat by my definition is a true barbarian, stuck in a dangerous mindset, refusing to see reason while believing they are the vessel of justice, truth and moral living.

A dangerous man, Wesley Scroggins expressed his believes and views about SPEAK and before I muck everything up I thought to just include a excerpt from Laurie Halse Anderson's blog post so that you can witness the ASSHAT Mr. Wesley in action.

Wesley Scroggins is an associate professor of management at Missouri State
University. He was also a speaker at Reclaiming Missouri for Christ, a recent
seminar whose purpose was to “To educate our pastors, legislators, educators,
students, and all citizens as to the truth about America’s Christian Heritage
and the role of fundamental, Biblical Christianity in the establishment and
function of our legal, legislative, and educational system, and to work towards
the successful reestablishment of these values in our society.”

(Note: I love Jesus. My dad is a United Methodist minister. I point out
Scroggins’ affiliation with this group so readers can understand his larger
agenda.)

Wesley wrote an opinion piece in the
News-Leader of Springfield, MO, in which he characterized SPEAK as filthy and
immoral. Then he called it “soft pornography” because of two rape scenes.

Can you believe that!!! Mr. Wesley thought that the rape scenes in SPEAK were considered porn. AGGGGGG! SPEAK by Laurie Halse Anderson is an amazing book that I believed helped many victims of Rape to SPEAK UP and give their horrible crime a voice and not keep it quiet.

So, you know what I am going to do? Although I already have two copies of SPEAK (one worn out and the other a special anniversary edition) I am going to buy a few more copies today and give it out to my friends and suggest they do the same. Wouldn't it be amazing to have SPEAK at the top of the best sellers list again right before banned books week and while someone is trying to ban it? I think so. Let's

If your looking for more information check out these blog posts:

Laurie Halse Anderson's Blog

A.S. KING

Myra Mcentire

or twitter about it and let us know how you feel

#speakloudly

Jill over at Breaking the Spine started this and I believe that it's awesome" This blog post is to alert those that visit about "the" book that we cannot wait to get our hands on.

This week I have selected Entwined by Heather Dixon because the cover is B A N A NA's gorgeous and if that isn't enough the blurb has got me hooked. Me WANTS!!!! What do you think? and what is your WOW for this week?

ENTWINED by Heather Dixon

Azalea and her younger sisters dance in the mysterious silver forest every night, escaping from the sadness of the palace and their father’s grief. What they don’t understand—although as time passes they begin to get an inkling of the danger they are in—is that the mysterious and dashing Keeper is tightening his snare with deadly purpose. Luckily, Azalea is brave and steadfast. Luckily, a handsome young army captain also has his eye on Azalea. . . . Lush, romantic, and compelling, this debut novel by Heather Dixon will thrill fans of Shannon Hale, Robin McKinley, and Edith Pattou.

I just read a great book by A.S. King named PLEASE IGNORE VERA DIETZ and I wanted others to also enjoy it and create some "BUZZ" by reading and reviewing it. An ARC Tour of PLEASE IGNORE VERA DIETZ seemed like a great opportunity to accomplish this but I have never hosted an ARC Tour before. After spending considerable time viewing other sites and their ARC Tour policies and such, I have decided to make this one easy because the ultimate goal is to help promote the book.

PLEASE IGNORE VERA DIETZ ARC TOUR:

1)This tour is open to US bloggers only (please bear with me it's my first tour).

2)It is a 5 day ARC tour, but if you finish reading before your 5 days are up then please send it on to the next person.

3)Each tour participant is responsible in mailing out the ARC to the next person on the list including delivery confirmation.
4)Your review MUST be posted no later than ONE week after reading.
5)Then send the ARC to the next person on the list and NO one else.
6)Please do not destroy or loose this ARC.

If you are serious and can commit to this ARC tour (meaning that you will read and review this book) than you are more than welcome to sign up. I will have 5 spots available and it will go on a first come first serve basis.

September 2010

Ellen Hopkins Fallout launch party–meet Ellen Hopkins

Tuesday Sept 14, 7:00pm
Books Inc.
Opera Plaza 601 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco

Youth Event: Smart Chicks Kick It! Tour-Menlo Park

Saturday, September 18, 6:00 p.m.

Location:Menlo Park Library, 800 Alma St., Menlo Park

Calling all YA Paranormal readers. This is the event you have been waiting for.

The Smart Chicks Kick It Tour is coming to Kepler’s and the Menlo Park Library.

Featuring:
Kelley Armstrong
Kami Garcia and Margie Stohl
Melissa de la Cruz
Kimberly Derting
Melissa Marr
Alyson Noel

Meet Teenage Author Alexandra Adornetto

Tuesday, September 21, 2010 6:30 PM

Location: 316 W. El Camino Real Sunnyvale, CA 94087

Teen Event: Lauren Kate

Wednesday, September 29, 7:00 p.m.

Location: Kepler’s Book Store, Palo Alto, CA

October 2010

Teen Romance Extraordinaire: Lisa Desrochers, Sophie Jordan, and Kiersten White

Monday, October 4, 7:00 p.m.

Location: Kepler’s Book Store, Palo Alto, CA

Youth Event: Becca Fitzpatrick

Saturday, October 9, 6:00 p.m.

Location: Kepler’s Book Store, Palo Alto, CA

Rick Riordan

Saturday, October 23, 2010, 3:00pm

Location: Hicklebee’s, San Jose, CA

Teen Event: James Dashner

Monday, October 25, 7:00 p.m.

Location: Kepler’s Book Store, Palo Alto, CA

NOVEMBER 2010

Suzanne Collins

Wednesday, November 3, 7:00 p.m.

Location: Kepler’s Book Store, Palo Alto, CA

Suzanne Collins

Thursday, November 4, 7:00pm

Location: Hicklebee’s, San Jose, CA

Youth Event: Laurie Halse Anderson

Wednesday, November 10, 7:00 p.m.

Location: Kepler’s Book Store, Palo Alto, CA

I am Number Four by Pittacus Lore

Reading level: Young Adult

Hardcover: 448 pages

Publisher: Harper; 1 edition (August 3, 2010)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0061969559

ISBN-13: 978-0061969553

Cover Art: Effective

Book Information: HERE

Rating: YYYY

Nine of us came here. We look like you. We
talk like you. We live among you. But we are not you. We can do things you dream
of doing. We have powers you dream of having. We are stronger and faster than
anything you have ever seen. We are the superheroes you worship in movies and
comic books—but we are real.

Our plan was to grow, and train, and become
strong, and become one, and fight them. But they found us and started hunting us
first. Now all of us are running. Spending our lives in shadows, in places where
no one would look, blending in. we have lived among you without you knowing.

But they know.

They caught Number One in Malaysia.
Number
Two in England.
And Number Three in Kenya.
They killed them all.

I am Number Four.

I am next.

REVIEW

In I AM NUMBER FOUR there are two alien races that are presented, the Loriens and the Mogodorians. In the past when in danger of destroying their planet, the Lorien race changed their ways and became some sort Supermen. The Mogadorians did not, and in essence they turned into walking diseases. When their home planet of Lorien was invaded by the evil Mogadarians, intent on raping the planet of all its natural resources, nine children are shipped off to Earth for safe refuge. Human in appearance, these children are to stay on earth until their superpowers develop so they could then return to Lorien to restore the planet. But the Mogadarians have pursued them to earth to render the Lorien race extinct (the reason for this I am still not convinced of). A special charm is placed upon the nine chosen youths that keeps them relatively safe because they must be killed in numerical order, hence the title character (Number Four) is the fourth on the Mogadarians’ hit list. Each child has a Sapien; an elder that will protect them and guide them as they mature into their prospective super powers. The nine children and their elders' separate, fleeing to various parts of Earth and it’s only when a burning scar appears on their bodies that they know one of their species has been killed.

Number Four has spent his life on Earth with his older Sapien Henri, a father-like figure who loves "John" as his own. These two beings are constantly on the move assuming different alias' as they go from town to town staying several steps ahead of their alien assassins. The death of Number Three prompts a choice move to Paradise, Ohio, a small town that is anything but paradise. Less than twenty-four hours of being there John Smith aka Number Four, finds himself on the bottom of the crap list for the town bully, "in love" with his ex-girlfriend and his powers develop at the worst time possible. Can things get any worse? Why yes they can, and there lie the predictability of this story.

I am not a Sci-Fi fan in the least. Ask anyone I know and they will tell you how much I will despise anything alien in nature because it just irritates me. So, it was with a hesitant decision for which I began reading I AM NUMBER FOUR and was pleasantly surprised on how much I enjoyed it. I cannot put my finger on why? but as I read it I laughed, cried and became absorbed in it. I liked the premise of this story along with it's cast of memorable characters despite it being a tad predictable. That predictability is what gives this book a lower rating, because I believe that this story could have been something truly amazing it if kept me on the edge instead of having me roll my eyes at it because it did not surprise me. With the movie coming up in a few months I predict that many will find interest in this book and will enjoy it but I wonder what true Sci-Fi fans think of it.

On a side note Pittacus Lore is the collective alias of James Frey and rookie author Jobie Hughes. So now I am wondering who is it that signed my copy from BEA? just curious, but it is a great marketing ploy.

PLEASE IGNORE VERA DIETZ by A.S. King

Reading level: Young Adult

Hardcover: 336 pages

Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers (October 12, 2010)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0375865861

ISBN-13: 978-0375865862

Author Website: A.S. KING

Rating: YYYY

Vera’s spent her whole life secretly in love with her best friend, Charlie Kahn. And over the years she’s kept a lot of his secrets. Even after he betrayed her. Even after he ruined everything.

So when Charlie dies in dark circumstances, Vera knows a lot more than anyone—the kids at school, his family, even the police. But will she emerge to clear his name? Does she even want to?

REVIEW

If Vera Dietz had her wish she would always wear an invisibility cloak so that she would become unseeable to everyone because she wanted nothing more than to live her life totally under the radar except to Charlie Kahn: most despised best friend, secret love of her life and now dead after being accused of a heinous crime.

With Charlie's untimely passing Vera has had to face the lies and dark twisted truths that she so valiantly kept evading her entire life, but such efforts are futile when Charlie's ghost demands that she confess and clear his name. The problem with this scenario is that she hates him and doesn't know if she wants to help the boy that ultimately pushed her into the "spotlight" after trying to annihilate her. Yet, try as she might to ignore his tenacious ghostly presence she finds that she cannot ignore the truth about the night that Charlie died and that revelation is where her journey to self acceptance and honesty begins.

When I was asked to review PLEASE IGNORE VERA DIETZ I jumped at the chance because A.S. King is a captivating and impressive author (Dust of 100 Dogs) and I knew that I would witness something amazing between those pages and I was not disappointed. I admired this quirky and unconventional story that was heartbreaking and candid right down to the very last word. I was held rapt audience as I went along with Vera and observed how she transformed before my very eyes and I not only understood where she was coming from but I also became her advocate. She also proved that we create our destiny, that our past does not define us and her courage to speak the truth and put herself out there would not expose her but would release her from the prison of her parents legacy she felt she could not escape. Her relationship with Charlie was complicated and held together by many secrets, but there was honest emotion at it's core and ultimately Vera came to realize this, but would it ever be enough for her to do the right thing?

Although I am not a fan of multiple POV's it worked for PLEASE IGNORE VERA DIETZ especially when witnessing Vera's dad and his rationale for raising Vera and Charlie's bits of self loathing post mortem. Their views would sometimes leave my heart aching or craking a smile that came from a twisted place inside of me. It is not an easy read to digest and you may be left haunted by some of it's darker moments but A.S. King has the power to create a story that while compelling, brutal and comically twisted you will be glad that you have read it.

**A word from the talking Pagoda**

"Please don't ignore PLEASE IGNORE VERA DEITZ"

Sneak a Peek Saturday is a feature that lets you "peek" into an upcoming book. Sometimes it is a chapter or two and maybe more.

This week I have selected TORMENT the much awaited sequel to FALLEN by Lauren Kate. It has been a long wait and we only have a few more weeks of torture left but until then, you can read this tasty morsel. Just click on the gorgeous book cover and enjoy.

TORMENT

Last night I had the pleasure of going a TEEN BOOK SWAP event at HICKLEBEE's a bookstore that was simply precious and fun. This great bookstore is full of history (their walls full of author signatures and illustrator's artwork) and wonderfully cheerful staff that made me feel immediately welcome upon entering their establishment.


Not only did I enjoy going to a new book store but I was happy to see fellow bloggers like Pam from Bookalico.us who is also Hicklebee's resident blogger and Alicia from Shooting Stars Mag.


The TEEN BOOK SWAP event started with a teen band (sorry I cannot remember what their band name was) that played Beatles tunes and kept us entertained for nearly a half hour while we noshed on pizza, cookies, M&M's and lollipops. YUM YUM! Pam talked about the event and future events at Hicklebee's then introduced Heidi R. Kling who came up to the mic in the most awesome boots that I totally want to steal, just kidding. Heidi then talked about SEA, her debut novel, answered questions and signed books. Afterwards those that attended taked about the books they brought in to swap then we selected what we wanted in order. To round out a great night all attendee's had a chance at some great ARC's or signed posters.

Heidi R. Kling's awesome boots. Me wants....my precious.
Look at who's signature is next to J.K. Rowling. Look inside the heart.

Jill over at Breaking the Spine started this and I believe that it's awesome" This blog post is to alert those that visit about "the" book that we cannot wait to get our hands on.

This week I have selected THE SCORCH TRIALS by James Dashner. I am a late comer to enjoying dystopian novels, but it was not long before I became a fan of THE MAZE RUNNER. I became totally engrossed in this novel and could not stop reading until I was finished. I was also very lucky to have met Mr. Dashner at a book signing last year and am happy to say that he will return to the SF bay area this Fall. So, with out further preamble, here is the snyopsis for THE SCORCH TRIALS.

**HIGHLY SPOILERIFIC ** to those that have NOT read the series, proceed at your own risk!!

The Maze was only the beginning...

Solving the Maze was supposed to be the end. No more puzzles. No more Variables. And no more running. Thomas was sure that escape meant he and the Gladers would get their lives back. But no one really knew what sort of life they were going back to.

In the Maze, life was easy. They had food, and shelter, and safety... until Teresa triggered the end. In the world outside the Maze, however, the end was triggered long ago.

Burned by sun flares and baked by a new, brutal climate, much of the earth is a wasteland. Government has disintegrated--and with it, order--and now Cranks, people covered in festering wounds and driven to murderous insanity by the infectious disease known as the Flare, roam the crumbling cities hunting for their next victim... and meal.

The Gladers are far from done running. Instead of freedom, they find themselves faced with another trial. They must cross the Scorch, the most burned-out section of the world, and arrive at a safe haven in two weeks. And WICKED has made sure to adjust the variables and stack the odds against them.

Thomas can only wonder--does he hold the secret of freedom somewhere in his mind? Or will he forever be at the mercy of WICKED?

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly meme that was started by MizB from Should Be Reading.

If you would like to participate in Teaser Tuesday, all you have to do is take the book that you are currently reading and open it to any page. Then you choose any two (2) sentences from that page to share with the rest of us!

*Be careful not to include spoilers and make sure to include the book title and author.

PLEASE IGNORE VERA DIETZ by A.S. King (page 7)

"Let me tell you--if you think your best friend dying is a bitch, try your best friend dying after he screws you over. It's a bitch like no other."

Book Information

Reading level: Young Adult

Hardcover: 336 pages

Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers (October 12, 2010)

Language: English

Pre-Order: HERE

I have another great contest today and this one is really amazing.

It's easy. This is what you must do for a chance to get your hands on 1 of 5 Mockingjay copies? (Courtesy of Scholastic Thank you!)

Just FILL THE FORM!

Giveaway open to US Addresses Only

Contest ends September 18th, 2010.

You do not need to be a follower but you are responsible for claiming your prize within 72 hours.

It's contest time and I have an amazing contest to share with everyone.

Simon & Schuster is offering 2 (two) finished copies of Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare to celebrate it's release !

So there will be (2) two winners.

Thank to Simon and Schuester for providing the Prize(s)

This Giveaway is opened to US contestants only. To enter, all you have to do is FILL THE FORM

Ends September 18th, 2010.

You don’t need to be a follower, but you will be responsible for claiming your prize.

In My Mailbox lets you peek into the contents of my mailbox on a weekly basis. I am listing all the lovely books that I have aquired this week. If you would like to participate and have your own “In My Mailbox” post, you can find more information here on the Story Siren's blog, where it all began..(This post was inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie

The last month was amazing. I received some wonderful books and I purchased a few that I really wanted to read. Mockingjay being my ultimate guilty treasure. I was fortunate enough to have a copies sent to me to give-a-way.

Mailbox Books:

Through Her Eyes by Jennifer Archer(ARC) 4/11

Losing Faith by Denish Jaden (ARC) 9/10

The Story Teller by Patricia Reilly Giff (HC) 9/10

The Dark Deeps by Arthur Slade (HC) 9/10

The Ruby Notebook by Laura Resau (HC) 9/10

The Lost Saint by Bree Despain (ARC) 12/10

Please Ignore Vera Dietz by A.S. King (ARC) 10/10

Prom and Prejudice by Elizabeth Eulberg (ARC) 1/11

Recovery Road by Blake Nelson (ARC) 3/11

Jump by Ginger Rue (HC) 9/10

The Thing a Brother Knows by Dana Reinhardt (HC) 9/10

Twin's Daughter by Lauren Baratz-Logsted (HC) 9/10 Signed

**not shown lots of MOCKINGJAY books that will be in a contest later on Sunday. Stay tuned**

Sneak a Peek Saturday is a feature that lets you "peek" into an upcoming book. Sometimes it is a chapter or two and maybe more.

This week I have selected an upcoming novel from A.S. King, author of Dust of 100 Dogs (one of my favorite novels). Now she releasing this new novel PLEASE IGNORE VERA DIETZ and it will amaze you as well.

Just click on the book cover below and read an excerpt about this amazing new novel and if you like it as much as I do than you can pre-order a signed copy HERE or an unsigned copy from your own favorite Indie book shop.

---Is it okay to hate a dead kid?

---Even if I loved him once?

---Even if he was my best friend?

---Is it okay to hate him for being dead?

Eighteen-year-old Vera's spent her whole life secretly in love with her best friend, Charlie Kahn. And over the years she's kept a lot of his secrets. Even after he betrayed her. Even after he ruined everything.
So when Charlie dies in dark circumstances, Vera knows a lot more than anyone—the kids at school, his family, or even the police. But will she emerge and clear his name? Does she even want to?
An edgy, gripping story, Please Ignore Vera Dietz is an unforgettable novel: smart, funny, dramatic, and always surprising.

First of all I wanted to thank all of those that entered my Fall Book Bonanza Contest. I was astounded by how many people entered and the enthusiasm that I received from it. I always like to share my good fortune and so without further delay I will announce the winner.

The WINNER for this contest is...tick...tick...tick...DEBBIE from the WRIGHTY READS blog.

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Since I had so many entries I have a special 2nd place prize and that belongs to ALESSANDRA at OUT OF THE BLUE blog she receives digital copies of Paranormalcy and Ascendant.

I wanted to announce the contest winner for the Contemporary Love contest and it's.....CASS from WORDS ON PAPER blog.

Congratulations!!
and thank you, to everyone that entered this contest. I have a few great contests for the month of September that I will soon post. Please come back for you will not be disappointed.