I am about to begin my fourth Kinsella novel. I was trying to determine if I truly wanted to delve into another novel by the Shopaholic author, and I succeeded in talking myself into it. As is the case with Romantic Comedies, I give in to the guilty pleasure of Chick Lit as an escape from all possible realms of reality in my own life. I'm looking forward to getting lost in the mind of a somewhat whiny, nearly irrational heroine, so I can escape the rationale and order that defines my daily routine.
If any of you have read this one, and have any input for me, please feel free to leave a comment.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Monday, April 19, 2010
The Jane Austen Book Club (Karen Joy Fowler)
As a huge fan of Jane Austen, I was super excited to pick up this novel. The club consists of five women and one man, each of which contributes a unique aspect to the story. Each woman has a different background, two are best friends, one of which has her daughter join the club, and the last two female members are opposing forces, both in age and outlook on life. The one male member, Grigg, is new in town and new to the realm of Jane Austen. Despite the accusation that he might be gay, he turns out to have a love interest in one of the other club members.
Each club member accepts the responsibility to host an evening as well as an Austen book of his or her choosing. The book chosen directly reflects the character who chose it. Since each character is unique, each chapter presents a new outlook.
It was enjoyable to discover how each character's life turns out, and an easy enough read to get through pretty quickly.
The movie doesn't stray too far from the original story, and to that I am thankful. The film moves pretty slowly. Since the book develops the characters through flashbacks into each person's history, the movie didn't have the time to depict the characters in the same way. If you are unfamiliar with Austen novels, you can still appreciate the film and the book. It my be more difficult to understand the conversations that take place during the club meetings, but you can still pick up on what is happening with each member of the club.
Each club member accepts the responsibility to host an evening as well as an Austen book of his or her choosing. The book chosen directly reflects the character who chose it. Since each character is unique, each chapter presents a new outlook.
It was enjoyable to discover how each character's life turns out, and an easy enough read to get through pretty quickly.
The movie doesn't stray too far from the original story, and to that I am thankful. The film moves pretty slowly. Since the book develops the characters through flashbacks into each person's history, the movie didn't have the time to depict the characters in the same way. If you are unfamiliar with Austen novels, you can still appreciate the film and the book. It my be more difficult to understand the conversations that take place during the club meetings, but you can still pick up on what is happening with each member of the club.
Me Talk Pretty One Day (David Sedaris)
David Sedaris might possibly be the funniest man alive. His adventures in discovering his sexual orientation are humorous and light-hearted. Despite having been forced to try more "masculine" adventures as a child, he perseveres as a hilarious memoirist (I just made up that word) with readers hoping to get more childhood memories in print.
His explorations in youth result in his witty interpretations as an adult. His perception of family and friends is fascinatingly and awe inspiring. He fuses words and experiences with enviable wit and candor. I hope to one day meet him, even if only to banter for a few minutes.
His explorations in youth result in his witty interpretations as an adult. His perception of family and friends is fascinatingly and awe inspiring. He fuses words and experiences with enviable wit and candor. I hope to one day meet him, even if only to banter for a few minutes.
Confessions of a Shopaholic (Sophie Kinsella)
Rebecca Bloomwood is infuriating at times, endearing at others, and completely clueless most of the time. It is hard to believe that Rebecca was hired to write about finances while having absolutely no clue about or interest in the arena. However, if you are able to take away the details like this, the book is entertaining enough. Rebecca's sweet demeanor and innocent mishaps lead the reader to enjoy and care for the protagonist. It is easy to get through, and a pretty quick innocent read.
If you are looking to pass some time while relaxing poolside, I would recommend this for you.
The film doesn't stick with the original plot-line, but it has an endearing side of its own. Despite the story's adjustments, the overall theme is adhered to. It is a simple romantic comedy that didn't do all that well at the box office. Isla Fisher is totally cute, and embodies the character of Rebecca Bloomwood very nicely. If you are thinking about having a girl's night, pick up this DVD and bottle of wine.
If you are looking to pass some time while relaxing poolside, I would recommend this for you.
The film doesn't stick with the original plot-line, but it has an endearing side of its own. Despite the story's adjustments, the overall theme is adhered to. It is a simple romantic comedy that didn't do all that well at the box office. Isla Fisher is totally cute, and embodies the character of Rebecca Bloomwood very nicely. If you are thinking about having a girl's night, pick up this DVD and bottle of wine.
Are you There, Vodka? It's Me, Chelsea (Chelsea Handler)
Chelsea Handler's wit and sarcasm is the obvious reason for her success as a comic as well as a TV Show host. Her personality is evident in her collection of memories from childhood through early adulthood. If you are sensitive to swearing, this might not be the book for you. However, if you are a fan of quick dialogue and sarcastic conversation, you will definitely enjoy Chelsea's memoirs.
I find Chelsea Handler hysterical in her childhood memories, especially her babysitting stories over summer break. Even as a child, Chelsea's imagination kept her out of (although sometimes got her into) trouble. I wouldn't want to be her mother, but it would have been a blast to be a close aunt or cousin so I could relish in all of her crazy antics.
I find Chelsea Handler hysterical in her childhood memories, especially her babysitting stories over summer break. Even as a child, Chelsea's imagination kept her out of (although sometimes got her into) trouble. I wouldn't want to be her mother, but it would have been a blast to be a close aunt or cousin so I could relish in all of her crazy antics.
Night (Elie Weisel)
It has been 70 years since the Holocaust, and even though I'm not "personally" affected by the atrocities, I find myself deeply moved by Elie Weisel. The story of his travel through Concentration Camps with his father is touching, saddening and motivating.
At one point Elie Weisel proclaims that his biggest struggle was when he understood that his "God died." A once religious boy was turned cold and disillusioned with the idea that the God he worshiped would allow devoted followers to suffer so gravely. This moment in the book held me captive for quite some time. I spent days imagining what Weisel was experiencing, wracking my brain attempting to live the moments that he and his comrades endured. At first I was frustrated that I couldn't even surmise the conditions in which they lived, but eventually I became thankful that I do not have the capacity to create these terrible conditions, even mentally, for myself.
A compelling first-hand account of daily life as a prisoner in an internment camp.
At one point Elie Weisel proclaims that his biggest struggle was when he understood that his "God died." A once religious boy was turned cold and disillusioned with the idea that the God he worshiped would allow devoted followers to suffer so gravely. This moment in the book held me captive for quite some time. I spent days imagining what Weisel was experiencing, wracking my brain attempting to live the moments that he and his comrades endured. At first I was frustrated that I couldn't even surmise the conditions in which they lived, but eventually I became thankful that I do not have the capacity to create these terrible conditions, even mentally, for myself.
A compelling first-hand account of daily life as a prisoner in an internment camp.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
The Devil Wears Prada (Lauren Weisberger)
This was the first Weisberger novel I had the pleasure of reading. While I was reading it, I was unfortunately on a very similar career path. The book definitely takes the glamor out of the fashion industry and reveals a sub-culture unappealing to anyone who enjoys friends. family and food.
It is interesting to see the main character transform through various stages in a relatively short amount of time. Her innocence and naivete in the beginning is clearly contrasted with her strength and charisma in the end. As a dynamic character, it is easy to distinguish the beginning character from the one who resides on the last few pages.
It is interesting to see the main character transform through various stages in a relatively short amount of time. Her innocence and naivete in the beginning is clearly contrasted with her strength and charisma in the end. As a dynamic character, it is easy to distinguish the beginning character from the one who resides on the last few pages.
The Host (Stephanie Meyer)
If I ever get a chance to sit down with Stephanie Meyer I spend every second I can to pick a part her brain. She has a unique ability to create worlds that are cohesive and imaginative, while creating the tension of a love story and the drama of an action story.
This novel is not geared for teens and pre-teens like the Twilight Saga, so I personally enjoyed it much more than the quadri-series. It may be about an alien invasion, but it feels more like a psychological thriller delving into the mind of human through the eyes of an extra-terrestrial.
I couldn't put it down while I was on vacation at the beach in North Carolina. Fortunately, I had a long holiday weekend in order to become absorbed. It was just long enough to finish the novel on two plane rides and a couple of days on the beach (with family time in between).
This novel is not geared for teens and pre-teens like the Twilight Saga, so I personally enjoyed it much more than the quadri-series. It may be about an alien invasion, but it feels more like a psychological thriller delving into the mind of human through the eyes of an extra-terrestrial.
I couldn't put it down while I was on vacation at the beach in North Carolina. Fortunately, I had a long holiday weekend in order to become absorbed. It was just long enough to finish the novel on two plane rides and a couple of days on the beach (with family time in between).
My Footprint (Jeff Garlin)
Jeff Garlin is pretty hysterical. It isn't the most comical book I've ever read, but it was encouraging to hear his rants about struggling with food addiction. His ability to verbalize the issues of self control regarding food was familiar. I appreciate his attempt to go green while getting healthy, since these are two very relevant topics today.
His humorous attempt to lower his literal and metaphorical footprints are engaging and fun. If you are trying to lose weight he is pretty encouraging to read through as well.
His humorous attempt to lower his literal and metaphorical footprints are engaging and fun. If you are trying to lose weight he is pretty encouraging to read through as well.
Breaking Dawn (Stephanie Meyer)
Its the fourth and final book in the series, and everything comes to a close. The story takes some interesting turns, which exemplify Stephanie Meyer's creativity and depth. Her finale concludes all of the characters story-lines, so the reader isn't left wanting more from anybody. There is one down-side: the very final event in the book is a little bit anti-climactic.
Regardless, if you have already read the first three novels, you will definitely want to read this one in order to finish up the series.
Regardless, if you have already read the first three novels, you will definitely want to read this one in order to finish up the series.
Eclipse (Stephanie Meyer)
This is the third of four books in the series. Its about time to see some action in this series, and we definitely do. For those of you who are looking for some interaction with outside vampires as well as more depth into the relationship between Edward and Bella, you get it. Throw in a protective Jacob, and you have a trifecta of story-telling greatness: action, romance, and drama.
This one is much more captivating than its predecessor, especially since we get much more "Edward time" this time around. Overall, if you made it through New Moon, you will be glad you did.
This one is much more captivating than its predecessor, especially since we get much more "Edward time" this time around. Overall, if you made it through New Moon, you will be glad you did.
New Moon (Stephani Meyer)
The second of four in the Twilight Saga, this novel shows the reader a different side of Bella as she bonds with Jacob and recovers from heart break. Again, Bella is pretty whiny through out the book, but taking her broken heart into consideration, the reader doesn't have much trouble giving her a break.
Edward isn't present in most of this episode, and his lack of presence is definitely felt. However, it is important to get through New Moon so that you can more fully appreciate Eclipse and Breaking Dawn. This is my least favorite of the four, but, like I said, it is worth getting through in order to make sense of the last two.
Because I didn't like the first movie, I didn't run out and see this one right away. I am still planning on watching it, but I haven't yet.
Edward isn't present in most of this episode, and his lack of presence is definitely felt. However, it is important to get through New Moon so that you can more fully appreciate Eclipse and Breaking Dawn. This is my least favorite of the four, but, like I said, it is worth getting through in order to make sense of the last two.
Because I didn't like the first movie, I didn't run out and see this one right away. I am still planning on watching it, but I haven't yet.
Twilight (Stephanie Meyer)
If you haven't heard of Twilight then you have either been living in a cave or stranded on a deserted island for the past couple of years. I wouldn't consider myself a "Twi-hard," but I do call myself a fan of Stephanie Meyer. She has created a new angle on vampires that I haven't seen before, and I appreciate her creativity for it.
This book was recommended to be by a student's parent, and at first I wasn't very interested in trying it out. I'm not much a sci-fi/fantasy person, so I hesitated, but she assured me that I would enjoy it regardless of my preferences. Even though the first few chapters didn't captivate me like she said they would, the second I hit chapter five I couldn't put it down.
The story is bizarre, in that a vampire and a human fall in love (which is now a trendy story-line). Even more bizarre, is the family of vampires that have decided to live in peace with their human community. Bella is pretty whiny, but if you keep in mind that the book is geared towards teenage girls, you'll more easily accept her disposition.
I may be a heretic to all of the "Twi-hards" out there, but I'm not a fan of the movie. The adaptation to film didn't lack very much in content, but I envisioned something much greater than what I was given. I suppose this is the problem with reading a story and then watching it (the film-maker isn't inside the mind of every reader). However, after reading and watching the Harry Potter Phenomenon, I was expecting and hoping that the quality of Twilight would reach the same magnitude. Although I was disappointed with the film's quality, I understand why the teenage audience revered it in the way it did.
I recommend you watch it, just so you can compare your vision to the film.
This book was recommended to be by a student's parent, and at first I wasn't very interested in trying it out. I'm not much a sci-fi/fantasy person, so I hesitated, but she assured me that I would enjoy it regardless of my preferences. Even though the first few chapters didn't captivate me like she said they would, the second I hit chapter five I couldn't put it down.
The story is bizarre, in that a vampire and a human fall in love (which is now a trendy story-line). Even more bizarre, is the family of vampires that have decided to live in peace with their human community. Bella is pretty whiny, but if you keep in mind that the book is geared towards teenage girls, you'll more easily accept her disposition.
I may be a heretic to all of the "Twi-hards" out there, but I'm not a fan of the movie. The adaptation to film didn't lack very much in content, but I envisioned something much greater than what I was given. I suppose this is the problem with reading a story and then watching it (the film-maker isn't inside the mind of every reader). However, after reading and watching the Harry Potter Phenomenon, I was expecting and hoping that the quality of Twilight would reach the same magnitude. Although I was disappointed with the film's quality, I understand why the teenage audience revered it in the way it did.
I recommend you watch it, just so you can compare your vision to the film.
My Sister's Keeper (Jodi Picoult)
This book was given to me as a gift, and I have to say I both love and hate the gifter. I love her because I couldn't put the book down for one moment. I hate her because I couldn't put the book down for one moment. This captivating story not only brings to life a multi-dimensional story, but also layers upon layers of character development. The reader hates the mother, while simultaneously trying to discern what he or she would do if placed in this position. Each family member and character involved in the story has a unique personality (as is true in real life) which contributes to the story as a whole.
You will enjoy this novel tremendously, and I can guarantee that it will have some effect on you (whether that be negative or positive).
I wholeheartedly recommend this book!
While I loved the book, I absolutely LOVED the movie. Even though the film took turns that the book did not, I absolutely enjoyed both of them equally. I am more pleased with how the film told the story, and where the story left off, but I was equally fascinated to see how Jodi Picoult told her version of how the scenario would naturally take its course.
I recommend reading the book and then watching the movie (if you haven't already done either). Then take the time to think about how you would end the story if it was your creation.
You will enjoy this novel tremendously, and I can guarantee that it will have some effect on you (whether that be negative or positive).
I wholeheartedly recommend this book!
While I loved the book, I absolutely LOVED the movie. Even though the film took turns that the book did not, I absolutely enjoyed both of them equally. I am more pleased with how the film told the story, and where the story left off, but I was equally fascinated to see how Jodi Picoult told her version of how the scenario would naturally take its course.
I recommend reading the book and then watching the movie (if you haven't already done either). Then take the time to think about how you would end the story if it was your creation.
Love the One You're With (Emily Giffin)
Another slam dunk for Emily Giffin. Needless to say I am a devoted fan. She has, once again, created a scenario in which the reader is anxious to know what will happen. Although there is a slight de ja vu feeling in how the main character admires her best friend (probably a little too much), it doesn't take away from the main story.
Tempted by her ex, comforted by her sister and loved by her husband, Ellen is relatable and believable. It is refreshing to have a novelist capable of capturing the essence of modern American women.
Tempted by her ex, comforted by her sister and loved by her husband, Ellen is relatable and believable. It is refreshing to have a novelist capable of capturing the essence of modern American women.
Baby Proof (Emily Giffin)
Emily Giffin has created another imperfect universe in which the reader is torn, right alongside the main character.
Even though this story isn't quite as compelling as Something Borrowed it left me hoping that everything turns out for Claudia. Despite her lack of communication with Ben, which leads to misinterpretation of some facts, Claudia is a reasonable and intelligent woman who is easy to identify with.
Another great read for any Giffin fan.
Even though this story isn't quite as compelling as Something Borrowed it left me hoping that everything turns out for Claudia. Despite her lack of communication with Ben, which leads to misinterpretation of some facts, Claudia is a reasonable and intelligent woman who is easy to identify with.
Another great read for any Giffin fan.
Flowers for Algernon (Daniel Keyes)
The dynamic main character is immediately easy ti sympathize with. Charlie's traumatic life coaster takes a fascinating turn and captivates the audience into wishing nothing but success for him.
Eventually, his sweet innocence is morphed into something and someone unrecognizable. To say anything about the ending would give it away, so I'll leave that topic untouched.
If you are interested in the dramatic capabilities of character development, pick this up immediately.
Eventually, his sweet innocence is morphed into something and someone unrecognizable. To say anything about the ending would give it away, so I'll leave that topic untouched.
If you are interested in the dramatic capabilities of character development, pick this up immediately.
Something Blue (Emily Giffin)
After reading Something Borrowed, I was a bit hesitant to dive into the life of the character I loathed. However, I gave up my reservations in the hopes that I would get an update on the lovers from the previous story. Fortunately, the motivation to read this episode paid off. Even though I didn't get much of an update on my favorite duo, the transformation of the new protagonist made the read worthwhile.
If you enjoyed her last novel, you will thoroughly enjoy this one as well. Even if you hate the main character in the beginning, you will grow to love her. Everyone deserves a second chance, right?
If you enjoyed her last novel, you will thoroughly enjoy this one as well. Even if you hate the main character in the beginning, you will grow to love her. Everyone deserves a second chance, right?
Something Borrowed (Emily Giffin)
I absolutely love this book! The intricate love triangle, in addition to the unbalanced relationship between best friends is fantastically riveting. Constantly on edge, hoping that the couple (who you should not be rooting for) doesn't get caught.
You wouldn't think that the protagonist would be the person involved in an affair, nor would you normally hope and believe that the adulterers will stay together forever. However, Emily Giffin captivates the reader into enjoying every moment the star crossed lovers share.
I'm told that a movie adaptation is on its way, I can't wait!
You wouldn't think that the protagonist would be the person involved in an affair, nor would you normally hope and believe that the adulterers will stay together forever. However, Emily Giffin captivates the reader into enjoying every moment the star crossed lovers share.
I'm told that a movie adaptation is on its way, I can't wait!
The Nanny Diaries (Emma Mclaughlin & Nicola Kraus)
Similar to "The Devil Wears Prada" in that it is a story about someone getting a job with the Upper Echelon's and is somehow surprised by their abuse. Despite the lack of a new plot-line, it was fairly entertaining.
Nanny was likable, even though she never stood up for herself. It was definitely interesting to discover that, as much as you hate Mrs. X, you are still capable of compassion for her character.
The ending disappointed, mostly because it only closed up one story line. It would have been nice to know what happens with some of the other characters in the novel.
I can't say if I like the novel or the film better. To be honest, I probably enjoyed them equally. Like most adaptations, the film didn't literally translate the story, but nothing was lost in the development of characters. I hated Mrs. X just as much in the movie, even though she was somewhat redeemed in the end. I also thought Scarlett Johansson portrayed Nanny well enough.
I'm a huge fan of reading novels before watching the film adaptation, and I am always interested to compare and contrast the two mediums. The film adequately reflected the theme of the novel, and the authors should find little to no problems with the changes that were made.
The Undomestic Goddess (Sophie Kinsella)
Sophie Kinsella has a way of making her seemingly intelligent protagonist make idiotically unfortunate mistakes. After the discovery of a career-ending snafoo Samantha high-tails it to the middle of nowhere rather than facing her superiors and discussing the mishap. I found it to be quite out of character for the overly uptight workaholic to simply vanish after a mistake, but it didn't force me to give up on the story.
While Samantha was a bit aggravating in the beginning of the novel, I began to appreciate her as time went on. I began to root for her as she learned to cook and clean (even though the time in which she was able to cook gourmet meals was unrealistic) and ultimately I wanted to find out how her life would turn out. Her enchantingly romantic love interest is out of a dream, and the reader can easily fall in love with his gentile patience and adoration of Sam.
It is a quick and easy read, with plenty of entertaining segues and characters. If you are looking for an enjoyable, brain-relaxing story, this is it!
While Samantha was a bit aggravating in the beginning of the novel, I began to appreciate her as time went on. I began to root for her as she learned to cook and clean (even though the time in which she was able to cook gourmet meals was unrealistic) and ultimately I wanted to find out how her life would turn out. Her enchantingly romantic love interest is out of a dream, and the reader can easily fall in love with his gentile patience and adoration of Sam.
It is a quick and easy read, with plenty of entertaining segues and characters. If you are looking for an enjoyable, brain-relaxing story, this is it!
Chasing Harry Winston (Lauren Weisberger)
The plot was very similar to what one might see on "Sex and the City", minus Carrie. The three girls appropriately mirror Charlotte (Emmy), Miranda (Leigh) and a Brazilian Samantha (Adriana).
If you weren't a "Sex and the City" fan, then the character similarities won't bother you. If you were, then you'll enjoy the nearly 30-something women laughing, crying and bonding over the course of a year.
Thankfully, the author ditched her formulaic routine of main character getting into some sort of upper class subculture and altering her lifestyle to meet the demands of that new lifestyle (i.e. Devil Wears Prada and Everyone Worth Knowing). Albeit entertaining, the storyline was becoming too familiar.
The new spin of three main characters was refreshing, as the reader will identify with aspects of each woman on some level.
The beginning may not captivate you, but eventually you begin to realize that you are eager to find out what happens to each of the girls, hoping that they all live happily ever after.
If you weren't a "Sex and the City" fan, then the character similarities won't bother you. If you were, then you'll enjoy the nearly 30-something women laughing, crying and bonding over the course of a year.
Thankfully, the author ditched her formulaic routine of main character getting into some sort of upper class subculture and altering her lifestyle to meet the demands of that new lifestyle (i.e. Devil Wears Prada and Everyone Worth Knowing). Albeit entertaining, the storyline was becoming too familiar.
The new spin of three main characters was refreshing, as the reader will identify with aspects of each woman on some level.
The beginning may not captivate you, but eventually you begin to realize that you are eager to find out what happens to each of the girls, hoping that they all live happily ever after.
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