Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint Vol. 2

Title: Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint Vol. 2

Author: singNsong

Publisher: Ize Press 2020

Genre: Manwha

Pages: 240

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Books to Movies

Where I Got It: Library

THE ENDLESS TRAGEDIES OF THIS WORLD ALL BEGIN WITH THIS CHARACTER.Three Ways to Survive the Apocalypse is Dokja’s favorite novel, or it was...until it became reality. Thanks to his knowledge of the story, he managed to survive the first chaotic moments of the new world. But the relentless scenario waits for no one, and Dokja finds himself in yet another life-or-death struggle. Isolated from his group and surrounded by horrific creatures, his story seems all but doomed to a premature ending...That’s when an unmistakable presence makes an entrance. It’s time for Dokja, the only reader of TWSA, to meet its main character―the Regressor Junghyeok Yu!

We get to learn more! We get a fun situation in a sea serpent and the introduction of some new characters. I loved piecing together the folklore and mythology references (with the help from some notes at the end) along with speculating about the larger mystery of the worlds and especially the constellations. My son was reluctant to tell me spoilers (not that I necessarily want them), but he did give me some interesting teasers. I am excited to keep reading and see where Dokja goes next.

Next up on the TBR pile:

Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint Vol. 1

Title: Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint Vol. 1

Author: singNsong

Publisher: Ize Press 2020

Genre: Manga

Pages: 248

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Books to Movies

Where I Got It: Library

AT THAT MOMENT, MY LIFE TOOK ON A DIFFERENT GENRE. As a struggling office worker, Dokja Kim’s sole joy in life is an online novel so obscure that he’s its only reader. Then one day the story comes to an end…and so does the world. People all around the globe suddenly find themselves being massacred by horrific monsters or pitted against each other in sadistic scenarios straight out of the novel. However, only Dokja is aware that this is merely the first chapter of what is to come. Knowing that devastating plot twists are on the horizon, he can no longer afford to sit back as a reader―it’s time for Dokja to step up and write his own destiny!

After chatting with one of my sons during our travel back to Nebraska, he mentioned this series as one that I should read. I finally slotted it into my short list TBR and read the first volume. I immediately fell into the story and found myself hanging on each page. I loved falling Dokja’s growing realization of his new reality. And we get to have some fun cultural moments embedded into the story. I am definitely hooked on the series and will continue reading.

Next up on the TBR pile:

JoJo's Bizarre Adventure Part 1 Phantom Blood Volume 3

Title: JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Part 1 Phantom Blood Volume 3

Author: Hirohiko Araki

Publisher: VIZ Media 1988

Genre: Manga

Pages: 339

Rating: 3/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Finishing the Series; Books to Movies

Where I Got It: Library

The legendary Shonen Jump series, now available in English for the first time, in a deluxe edition featuring color pages and newly drawn cover art! JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure is a groundbreaking manga famous for its outlandish characters, wild humor and frenetic battles. A multigenerational tale of the heroic Joestar family and their never-ending battle against evil!

The conclusion of the Phantom Blood Arc! Jonathan Joestar and his mentor Zeppelli continue their pursuit of the villainous vampire, Dio! But to get to him, they must first face down his murderous henchmen! In battle after bloody battle, JoJo and Zeppeli are pushed to their limits and beyond!

And we close out the Phantom Blood story arc. I enjoyed how the story went overall. It was a fun big adventure story between good and evil. But I must say the confusing art panels during action pulled me out of the story sometimes. My biggest complaint is actually that many times throughout the story, the author tells instead of shows. There was weird exposition panels mostly narrated by Speedwagon. With the ending in this volume, I wonder where the bigger story is going to go next.

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Part 1 Phantom Blood

Volume 1
Volume 2
Volume 3

Next up on the TBR pile:

Parasyte Vol. 8 by Iwaaki Hitoshi

Title: Parasyte Vol. 8

Author: Iwaaki Hitoshi

Publisher: Del Rey

Genre: Comics

Pages:

Rating: /5 stars

Reading Challenges: Finishing the Series; Book to Movie

Where I Got It: Library

MONSTER TWIST: Shinichi vows to destroy Goto, one of the deadliest of the alien parasites that have invaded Earth-and people's bodies. But at the moment of truth, Shinichi discovers something unexpected in his heart: sympathy for the monster. Soon Shinichi, who harbors his own alien parasite, will come to a stunning realization about the dark side of human nature-and his own soul. This is the final volume of Parasyte. Includes special extras after the story!

And we finally get to the end. I truly loved how this story ended. It had the emotional weight that I was looking for without being super pessimistic. We get to see Shinichi and Migi really grow and come into their own. They are separate entities, but clearly very connected (and not just physically). We get to see Shinichi take on responsibility for Migi and even for all the parasites. While big comic/manga series are a lot of fun, I really enjoyed how this was a contained story with a conclusion. And now, J and I can watch the anime version.

Parasyte

Next up on the TBR pile:

The Last Unicorn by Peter S. Beagle

Title: The Last Unicorn

Author: Peter S. Beagle

Publisher: 1968

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 294

Rating: 3/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Books to Movies; Fairytale Retelling - Mythology

Where I Got It: Library

The unicorn lived in a lilac wood, and she lived all alone. So she ventured out from the safety of the enchanted forest on a quest for others of her kind. Joined along the way by the bumbling magician Schmendrick and the indomitable Molly Grue, the unicorn learns all about the joys and sorrows of life and love before meeting her destiny in the castle of a despondent monarch—and confronting the creature that would drive her kind to extinction...

Our Nerdy Bookish Friend selection for May (it got bumped from March). It’s been on my TBR for absolute years. I finally got around to it and I’m not sure exactly how I feel about this one. I kept having to remind myself that this was written in 1968. The story felt very dated, but again, 1968. There are a few scenes that were pretty disturbing and I couldn’t decide if they actually fit the story at all. The story meandered a little too much in sections. There are passages that are beautiful and fun. I can see why this became a classic, but I ultimately was sorta disappointed in this read.

Next up on the TBR pile:

Alice in Borderland Vol. 9

Title: Alice in Borderland Vol. 9

Author: Haro Aso

Publisher: VIZ Media LLC 2024

Genre: Comics

Pages: 400

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Finishing the Series; Books (Manga) to Movies (Television Shows)

Where I Got It: Library

Eighteen-year-old Ryohei Arisu is sick of his life. School sucks, his love life is a joke, and his future weighs on him like impending doom. As he struggles to exist in a world that can’t be bothered with him, Ryohei feels like everything would be better if he were anywhere else. When a strange fireworks show transports him and his friends to a parallel world, Ryohei thinks all his wishes have come true. But this new world isn’t an empty paradise, it’s a vicious game. And the only way to survive is to play.

After stumbling on a dealer’s bunker, Arisu is even more determined to uncover the terrible truth behind Borderland. But that means he and Usagi will have to abandon their plans to sit out the games and instead seek out the last person who might have the answers—the Queen of Hearts. Will taking on the queen find them a way home, or will it be their final game?

And we come to the end of the story. We get a wrap-up of the previous games and a reconnection of characters. We slowly start to wind down, but not without one last game to play. This time we get the Queen of Hearts, who we’ve already met. But in this game, the focus comes back to Arisu and his experience. I appreciate how the story started focused on Arisu and ended focused on Arisu. We get a nice bookend to series. But then, the big reveal at the end of the games. I’m not quite certain how I feel about the twist, but I did enjoy the wrapping up pages. Overall, I truly enjoyed this series and am so excited to now go and watch the television series.

star-rating-remains-the-most-important-part-of-a-review-cad0047.cad0047.png

Next up on the TBR pile:

Horseman by Christina Henry

Title: Horseman

Author: Christina Henry

Publisher: Berkley 2021

Genre: Horror

Pages: 302

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Unread Shelf; Books to Movies

Where I Got It: HPB December 2024

Everyone in Sleepy Hollow knows about the Horseman, but no one really believes in him. Not even Ben Van Brunt's grandfather, Brom Bones, who was there when it was said the Horseman chased the upstart Crane out of town. Brom says that's just legend, the village gossips talking.

More than thirty years after those storied events, the village is a quiet place. Fourteen-year-old Ben loves to play "Sleepy Hollow boys," reenacting the events Brom once lived through. But then Ben and a friend stumble across the headless body of a child in the woods near the village, and the discovery makes Ben question everything the adults in Sleepy Hollow have ever said. Could the Horseman be real after all? Or does something even more sinister stalk the woods?

Somehow I missed that Christina Henry published a book based on Sleepy Hollow. I got very excited seeing this in the used book store and immediately bought it. The book did not disappoint. We get a story set about 30 after the events in Washington Irving’s story. We are thrown back into the town of Sleepy Hollow and have to parse out what is real and what is legend. In the course of the book, we see the world through Ben’s eyes, a young man who does not fit into society’s conventions. There was a timeless quality to the book that really sucked me in and creeped me out at the same time. As the story slowly unfolds, I was eager to the turn the pages and learn more. I could not put this one down at all.

Next up on the TBR pile:

The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton

Title: The Age of Innocence

Author: Edith Wharton

Published: 1920

Genre: Classics

Pages: 366

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: 1001 Books; TBR Reduction; Ebook; Books to Movies; Back to the Classics -- Woman Author

At the heart of the story are three people whose entangled lives are deeply affected by the tyrannical and rigid requirements of high society. Newland Archer, a restrained young attorney, is engaged to the lovely May Welland but falls in love with May's beautiful and unconventional cousin, Countess Ellen Olenska. Despite his fear of a dull marriage to May, Archer goes through with the ceremony — persuaded by his own sense of honor, family, and societal pressures. He continues to see Ellen after the marriage, but his dreams of living a passionate life ultimately cease.

Okay. I get this novel. I get Wharton's criticism of high society. I get the conflict the characters feel. I understand and yet I'm not the biggest fan of this book. Mostly because I can't stand Newland Archer. I get May and the Countess. I understand their behavior, but Newland was just way too selfish for my tastes.

Movie:

I loved the movie adaptation. The actors were cast perfectly, especially Daniel Day-Lewis. Swoon! He even made Archer a more likable character. And Michelle Pfeiffer shined as Countess Olenska. Plus, the movie just looked amazing! I loved the sets and even more, the costumes! Those dresses were intricate and absolutely gorgeous. Perfect adaptation of a historical novel. Definitely a keeper in terms of a book-to-movie.

Odd Thomas by Dean Koontz

Title: Odd Thomas

Author: Dean Koontz

Publisher: Bantam 2003

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 399

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Read Your Freebies; Book to Movies; 52 Books - W18; New Author

Meet Odd Thomas, the unassuming young hero of Dean Koontz’s dazzling New York Times bestseller, a gallant sentinel at the crossroads of life and death who offers up his heart in these pages and will forever capture yours.
Sometimes the silent souls who seek out Odd want justice. Occasionally their otherworldly tips help him prevent a crime. But this time it’s different. A stranger comes to Pico Mundo, accompanied by a horde of hyena-like shades who herald an imminent catastrophe. Aided by his soul mate, Stormy Llewellyn, and an unlikely community of allies that includes the King of Rock ’n’ Roll, Odd will race against time to thwart the gathering evil. His account of these shattering hours, in which past and present, fate and destiny, converge, is a testament by which to live—an unforgettable fable for our time destined to rank among Dean Koontz’s most enduring works.

Our book club selection for May. I dove so hard into this book that I finished it in two days! I just got so engrossed into the story of Odd that I didn't want to leave until the last page. I love the tone of this book. It's a detective novel with supernatural forces. I loved each and every encounter he had with a ghost, especially Elvis. I hope that Elvis makes appearances in the rest of the series. Really all of the side characters were very interesting. I can't wait to see more from Rosalia and Chief Potter and Terri. I have to admits that I didn't realize what was going on until the reveal. But that made the book better. I don't want to be able to predict the ending on page 30. This left in the suspense. I'm thinking that I will have to get the rest of this series soon...

Movie:

The movie is very true to the book. They definitely cut down on some of the side plots (mostly about his parents and Little Ozzie), but the cuts stream line the movie.I wish they had explored more of his relationship wit the Chief. Instead, we focus on Odd, Stormy, and the oncoming danger to Pico Mundo. I was a little put off by the narration, but I guess it's the best way to let the audience know all the quirks about Odd. Anton Yelchin is perfect as Odd Thomas. He's likable and fun, but can turn on a dime to be a bit spooky. Whoever the actress was that played Stormy was good. I believed that her and Odd were the perfect match. I almost got a bit teary-eyed at the end. Very fun movie adaptation of a good book.

Odd Thomas:

#1 Odd Thomas
#2 Forever Odd
#3 Brother Odd
#4 Odd Hours
#4.1 Odd Interlude
#4.2 Odd Interlude
#4.3 Odd Interlude
#5 Odd Apocalypse
#6 Deeply Odd
#6.5 You are Destined to Be Together Forever
#7 Saint Odd

Insurgent by Veronica Roth

Title: Insurgent (Divergent #2)

Author: Veronica Roth

Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books 2012

Genre: Dystopian Fantasy

Pages: 592

Rating: 4/5 stars Movie: 3/5 stars

Reading Challenges: NPR Teen; TBR Reduction; Ebook; A to Z - I; Books to Movies; Seriously Series

As war surges in the factions of dystopian Chicago all around her, Tris attempts to save those she loves—and herself—while grappling with haunting questions of grief and forgiveness, identity and loyalty, politics and love.

I didn't like this one quite as much as I liked Divergent. The constant "who's lying to whom" got a bit annoying after awhile. Just once I want a novel where everyone is completely honest. Other than that annoyance at the entire genre as a whole, I did like the book. I loved seeing Tris grow and realize her true potential. The twists and turns in regards to character's allegiances were a lot of fun. And we get to see the end of Jeanine Matthews and the big revelation at the end. Second books in trilogies are often not as good, but this one was good enough to make me want to read Allegiant immediately.

Movie:

The movie definitely changed things from the book. I don't think the entire plotline about only a Divergent being able to open the box was necessary to the larger storyline. But whatever, I'm sure the movie makers felt that without it audiences wouldn't understand why Jeanine wanted Divergents. I also have some slight issues with how Caleb was portrayed. I saw him as more of a traitor in the books than the movie. The movie makes him almost a tragic figure. I didn't think it played as well. I also didn't like the killing of Jeanine in the movie. They completely cut Tori out of the sequence. Just didn't sit right with me. Based off of my love of the book, I gave the movie lower stars.

Divergent:

#0.1 The Transfer
#0.2 The Initiate
#0.3 The Son
#0.4 The Traitor
#1 Divergent
#1.5 Free Four
#2 Insurgent
#3 Allegiant

Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

Title: Outlander (Outlander #1)

Author: Diana Gabaldon

Publisher: Dell 1998

Genre: Historical Romance/Fantasy

Pages: 850

Rating: 5/5 stars TV Show: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Fantasy Project; NPR Scifi and Fantasy; TBR Reduction; A to Z -- O; Book to Movie; Outlander

Unrivaled storytelling ... unforgettable characters ... rich historical detail ... these are the hallmarks of Diana Gabaldon's work. Her New York Times bestselling Outlander novels have earned the praise of critics and captured millions of readers.Here is the story that started it all, introducing two remarkable characters, Claire Randall and Jamie Fraser, in a spellbinding novel of passion and history that combines exhilarating adventure with a love story for the ages....The year is 1945. Claire Randall, a former combat nurse, is back from the war and reunited with her husband on a second honeymoon — when she walks through a standing stone in one of the ancient stone circles that dot the British Isles. Suddenly she is a Sassenach — an "outlander" — in a Scotland torn by war and raiding Highland clans in the year of Our Lord ... 1743.Hurled back in time by forces she cannot understand, Claire is catapulted into intrigues and dangers that may threaten her life ... and shatter her heart. For here she meets James Fraser, a gallant young Scots warrior, and becomes a woman torn between fidelity and desire ... and between two vastly different men in two irreconcilable lives.

My reread of this novel was slow going. I have no idea why it took me this long to read, because I really really enjoyed this book. Whatever the reason, I loved getting back into the story of Claire and Jamie. I originally read this a few years back at history reenactment events. Fitting as we were reenacting French and Indian War set just a few decades after Outlander. I never continued the series, yet have wanted to in the intervening years. One of my goals this year to finish the series.

Within the first chapter I dove head first back into the story. I love the character of Claire. She is such a well-rounded character I can imagine meeting her on the street. I love that her reactions to falling back in time are realistic. She is confused, angry, sad, but understands that she needs to figure this new situation out to survive. I love it! And meeting Jamie Fraser is just the beginning of a great romance. I love their little conversations here and there even before the wedding. I can't wait to see where their story leads in the rest of the series.

TV Show:

I was wary of the television series. Would it hold up to such an amazing book? Thankfully it does! Most of this is due to such great casting. They found the perfect people for Claire and Jamie, but the best casting is Tobias Menzies as Black Jack/Frank Randall. I've never been a huge fan of Frank, but to finally see him, I am more sympathetic to his situation. And then we get the flip side of Black Jack. Truly a villain for the ages. Beyond the main characters, I really enjoyed Dougal and especially Angus. And the scenery is just absolutely gorgeous. I want to go to Scotland right now! The only problem I have with the series was the horrible cliffhanger the creators left us with at the end of the first run. I guess I know what happens, but my goodness that was evil.

Outlander

#0.5 Virgins
#1 Outlander
#2 Dragonfly in Amber
#3 Voyager
#4 The Drums of Autumn
#5 The Fiery Cross
#6 A Breath of Snow and Ashes
#7 An Echo in the Bone
#7.5 The Space Between
#8 Written in My Own Heart's Blood
#8 A Leaf on the Wind of All Hallows

2015 Books to Movies Reading Challenge

For this year's reading challenges, I decided to do something very different and drastic. I am going to read women authors. I feel like I've been neglecting all those wonderful female authors sitting on my shelves. I will be tailoring my challenge participation to account for this overall goal. I do have a few exceptions. I may read a male author if 1) I've already started the series and desperately want to finished it (i.e. Song of Fire and Ice) 2) It is a book club selection (out of my hands) or 3) If it is a male author writing nonfiction specifically about a women subject (e.g. a biography of Kate Chopin). Other than those three exceptions, I want to discover some wonderful women authors.

From ebookclassics:

Hello friends! Do you love movies? Do you love when books you love become movies? Welcome to the 2015 Book to Movie Challenge which was previously hosted by Katie on her blog Doing Dewey. The objective of the challenge is to share your reviews of movie or TV book adaptations, and hopefully generate some interesting discussions over the course of the year.
The challenge is super easy and flexible comprising of two parts:
♦ A quarterly check-in where you can add a link-up to your reviews; and/or
♦ Participate in a read-along of four 2015 movie adaptations.
GUIDELINES
♦ There are no hard or fast rules.
♦ You can join at any time. You can participate in one part of the challenge or both. You can participate in one read-along or all four. It’s all about having fun and what suits your interests and time.
♦ Neither the book nor the movie has to be new this year.
♦ A TV show counts if it is movie length or you have watched at least 2 episodes.
READ-ALONG SCHEDULE
March 2015 – Serena by Ron Rash to tie-in with the movie starring Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper
June 2015 – Paper Towns by John Green to tie-in with the movie starring Nat Wolff and Cara Delevingne
September 2015 – To Reach The Clouds by Philippe Petit to tie-in with the movieThe Walk starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt
November 2015 – The Martian by Andy Weir to tie-in with the movie starring Matt Damon

Definitely signing up for this challenge! I love reading a book and then comparing it to the movie version. I probably won't participate in the read-a-longs, but I aiming for 12 books and movies.

Divergent by Veronica Roth

Title: Divergent (Divergent #1)

Author: Veronica Roth

Publisher: Katherine Tegen 2012

Genre: YA Dystopia

Pages: 410

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Fall Reading Challenge; NPR Teen; US of YA - Illinois; Ebook; New Author; 52 Books - W48; Book to Movie; Well Rounded - Dystopia

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.

This has been on my list for ages... I stayed away mostly because I really enjoyed The Hunger Games. I thought this would be too close for me to truly enjoy. Thankfully they are different enough that I really enjoyed this book. Tris is a good character, not great, but good. You can definitely tell that she is 16 years old, but that's the point right? We are supposed to follow her journey of growing up, making mistakes, finding her identity. I liked Four as a character and especially loved Christina and Will. My main issue was with the romance sections. They just felt incredibly forced and fake. For that I knock off one star. I would have preferred just the fight against the society. Overall, I am excited to read Insurgent, but first let's watch the movie version.

Movie:

Surprisingly good. I was expecting large deviations from the book. I was expecting annoying characters and no chemistry between the leads. Instead, I was pleasantly surprised by the actors and actresses. The screenplay kept fairly true to the book. There were only a few changes and I understood the need for changes for most of them. The best part were the world building visuals. I loved the scenes of old Chicago especially the lake shots. I'm hopefully anticipating the second movie...

Divergent:

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

Title: City of Bones (Mortal Instruments #1)

Author: Cassandra Clare

Publisher: Simon Pulse 2007

Genre: YA

Pages: 485

Rating: 4/5 stars Movie: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Mount TBR; Book to Movie; 100 YA; NPR Teen; Fantasy Project

When fifteen-year-old Clary Fray heads out to the Pandemonium Club in New York City, she hardly expects to witness a murder—much less a murder committed by three teenagers covered with strange tattoos and brandishing bizarre weapons. Then the body disappears into thin air. It’s hard to call the police when the murderers are invisible to everyone else and when there is nothing—not even a smear of blood—to show that a boy has died. Or was he a boy?
This is Clary’s first meeting with the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the earth of demons. It’s also her first encounter with Jace, a Shadowhunter who looks a little like an angel and acts a lot like a jerk. Within twenty-four hours Clary is pulled into Jace’s world with a vengeance, when her mother disappears and Clary herself is attacked by a demon. But why would demons be interested in ordinary mundanes like Clary and her mother? And how did Clary suddenly get the Sight? The Shadowhunters would like to know. . . .

I enjoyed this volume way more than most of the YA paranormal books I've read in the past. It wasn't amazing, but at least I was entertained. I guessed most of the twists in the book, but they weren't completely obvious. The characters were interesting. The storyline kept my attention. I want to know more about the world of the Shadowhunters. I have the second and third volumes in the series. I will definitely be reading them soon.

Movie

First starting to watch the movie, I thought "oh okay, it's the same." But I was mistaken. As the movie continues, more and more things are changed. There are some direct quotes here and there and mostly the characters are the same. However, there are many changes to Valentine and the entire ending is different. I can't quite decide if I like the changes or not. I think that if I saw the movie without reading the book, I would have liked the movie just fine. As I read the book, I had to change my perspective. They didn't turn the book directly into a movie. They used the book as a starting off point. Becuase it isn't a bad movie by itself, I still rated it 4 stars.

Mortal Instruments (DNFed series)

#1 City of Bones
#2 City of Ashes
#3 City of Glass
#4 City of Fallen Angels
#5 City of Lost Souls
#6 City of Heavenly Fire

Casino Royale by Ian Fleming

Title: Casino Royale

Author: Ian Fleming

Publisher: Jonathan Cape 1953

Genre: Thriller

Pages: 213

Rating: 3/5 stars Movie: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: 1001 Books; New Author; 52 Books - W32; Books to Movies

In the novel that introduced James Bond to the world, Ian Fleming’s agent 007 is dispatched to a French casino in Royale-les-Eaux. His mission? Bankrupt a ruthless Russian agent who’s been on a bad luck streak at the baccarat table.
One of SMERSH’s most deadly operatives, the man known only as “Le Chiffre,” has been a prime target of the British Secret Service for years. If Bond can wipe out his bankroll, Le Chiffre will likely be “retired” by his paymasters in Moscow. But what if the cards won’t cooperate? After a brutal night at the gaming tables, Bond soon finds himself dodging would-be assassins, fighting off brutal torturers, and going all-in to save the life of his beautiful female counterpart, Vesper Lynd.

J warned me that the since this was the first book in the series, it started off a bit slow. That was an understatement. I almost put the book down because of the first three chapters. They were clunky and downright boring. I understand that the author has to set up the world, but this was not done well at all. But I stuck with it. The book did get better. The baccarat scene was amazing. The torture seen was almost unreadable, but in a good way. Those two chapters were definitely the high points. The ending was a bit of a let down, but I see how it sets up Bond for the rest of the series. I ended up knocking off a star for the clunky writing and pace. I knocked off another star for my own personal tastes. The multiple comments about how women need to be scene and not heard, kept in the kitchen, etc, really got to me. I know this was written in 1953, but I'd still not prefer to read it. Overall an interesting read, but definitely not going to be a favorite and I probably won't continue the series.

Movie:

I really really enjoyed this movie. Of course, the movie makers made changes from the book. They added the entire first sequence and multiple more action beats while keeping the main storyline and the tone of the book. Plus, I adore Daniel Craig as Bond. He has the grit and the hard nature. Overall, an awesome adaptation. I dare say better than the book.

A Long Way Down by Nick Hornby

Title: A Long Way Down

Author: Nick Honby

Publisher: Penguin 2006

Genre: Fiction

Pages: 325

Rating: 4/5 stars Movie: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Mount TBR; Monthly Key Word - Aug; 52 Books - W31; Books to Movies

Meet Martin, JJ, Jess, and Maureen. Four people who come together on New Year's Eve: a former TV talk show host, a musician, a teenage girl, and a mother. Three are British, one is American. They encounter one another on the roof of Topper's House, a London destination famous as the last stop for those ready to end their lives.
In four distinct and riveting first-person voices, Nick Hornby tells a story of four individuals confronting the limits of choice, circumstance, and their own mortality. This is a tale of connections made and missed, punishing regrets, and the grace of second chances.

This isn't High Fidelity. That was my initial thought when finished with the book. I started my Hornby journey with J's favorite and have found that this one just doesn't quite live up to it. This volume is a good novel. We get four interesting engaging characters. The switches in point of view are done well. Overall the storyline is okay. It just doesn't have the depth of High Fidelity. The overall voice of the book is not clear. In fact, I wasn't really sure of the point of the book once I got to the end. But I did enjoy reading it, so that's something.

Movie:

The movie fixed the main issue I had with the book: pacing. The movie quickly moves off of the roof of Topper House and into the characters. Very good decision. Once there, we get each of the characters' voices in a the telling of the larger story. I liked how they kept the voices, but didn't get stuck in each of the stories. Instead, the voices just narrate four different parts of the story. I thought the casting was very spot on, especially Jess. Jess can be very grating in the book. Imogen Poots toned her down a bit, but kept her inappropriate comments and impulsive nature. Toni Colette was perfect as the dowdy Maureen. I really believed her to be the meek mouse of the group. The only thing about the movie that I wasn't sold on was the ending. It was a bit too happy for me. I like the more ambiguous ending of the book. But that's it. I really enjoyed the rest of the movie.

How I Live Now by Meg Rosoff

Title: How I Live Now

Author: Meg Rosoff

Publisher: Wendy Lamb Books 2004

Genre: YA Fiction

Pages: 194

Rating: 3/5 stars Movie: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Women Authors; Library Books; 52 Books -- W17; Books to Movies

Fifteen-year-old Daisy is sent from Manhattan to England to visit her aunt and cousins she’s never met: three boys near her age, and their little sister. Her aunt goes away on business soon after Daisy arrives. The next day bombs go off as London is attacked and occupied by an unnamed enemy.
As power fails, and systems fail, the farm becomes more isolated. Despite the war, it’s a kind of Eden, with no adults in charge and no rules, a place where Daisy’s uncanny bond with her cousins grows into something rare and extraordinary. But the war is everywhere, and Daisy and her cousins must lead each other into a world that is unknown in the scariest, most elemental way.

I feel like this one was a good book but I read it too late in life. It's definitely made for a teen. I kept thinking like an adult and it just didn't connect to the characters or the story. Plus, the style bugged me. First person narratives are very hit or miss and I'd say this one was a miss for me. But I can definitely see how this novel could appear to many teens out there. Daisy is a typical teenager. She doesn't act older than her actual age of 15. She doesn't respond to situation like adults. She has moods and identity issues. She struggled with the teenage angst. I can appreciate a young adult novel that actually features a young adult. I just didn't get sucked into the story and characters. Not a bad book, just not one for me.

Movie:

I liked the movie a whole lot better than the book. They aged Edmund and Daisy up a bit (not so scandalous). They changed other things here and there. But they kept the focus on the survival of the characters. I liked this Daisy much more than book Daisy. She still seemed like a teenager, but not quite as whiny. I also liked how they had a few little scenes the movie touched on her mental health issues, but didn't dwell. Instead, we see a great gradual transition brought on by the war. Plus, the cinematography was just gorgeous. Glad that I actually decided to watch the movie after my so-so reaction to the book.

The Nanny Diaries by Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Kraus

Title: The Nanny Diaries

Author: Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Kraus

Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin 2002

Genre: Chick Lit

Pages: 306

Rating: 3/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Mount TBR; Movies; Rory Gilmore; 52 Books -- W6; Women Authors

Wanted: One young woman to take care of four-year-old boy. Must be cheerful, enthusiastic and selfless--bordering on masochistic. Must relish sixteen-hour shifts with a deliberately nap-deprived preschooler. Must love getting thrown up on, literally and figuratively, by everyone in his family. Must enjoy the delicious anticipation of ridiculously erratic pay. Mostly, must love being treated like fungus found growing out of employers Hermès bag. Those who take it personally need not apply.

Who wouldn't want this job? Struggling to graduate from NYU and afford her microscopic studio apartment, Nanny takes a position caring for the only son of the wealthy X family. She rapidly learns the insane amount of juggling involved to ensure that a Park Avenue wife who doesn't work, cook, clean, or raise her own child has a smooth day.

When the Xs' marriage begins to disintegrate, Nanny ends up involved way beyond the bounds of human decency or good taste. Her tenure with the X family becomes a nearly impossible mission to maintain the mental health of their four-year-old, her own integrity and, most importantly, her sense of humor. Over nine tense months, Mrs. X and Nanny perform the age-old dance of decorum and power as they test the limits of modern-day servitude.

Overall, a fairly disappointing book. I think the problem is that it is just so predictable. I knew exactly how the relationships between Nanny and Mrs. X and Grayer would play out. It feels like this story is just played out. It's just not the book for me. I seem to be on a trend lately of disappointing reads. I hope they get better. At least I am weeding out the not great reads from my bookshelves. Off to Half Price Books to sell some books I go...

Movie:

The movie is fairly true to the book which of course bored me. I just didn't really connect to any of the characters. It's not a bad movie, just a tired storyline and stereotypical characters. The movie may appeal to some, but I just didn't find myself wanting to see it again.

High Fidelity by Nick Hornby

Title: High Fidelity

Author: Nick Hornby

Publisher: Riverhead Books 1995

Genre: Contemporary Fiction

Pages: 323

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Mount TBR; New Authors; Monthly Motif -- January Around the World; Book to Movie; Rory Gilmore Challenge

Rob is a pop music junkie who runs his own semi-failing record store. His girlfriend, Laura, has just left him for the guy upstairs, and Rob is both miserable and relieved. After all, could he have spent his life with someone who has a bad record collection? Rob seeks refuge in the company of the offbeat clerks at his store, who endlessly review their top five films (Reservoir Dogs...); top five Elvis Costello songs ("Alison"...); top five episodes of Cheers (the one where Woody sang his stupid song to Kelly...). Rob tries dating a singer whose rendition of "Baby, I Love Your Way" makes him cry. But maybe it's just that he's always wanted to sleep with someone who has a record contract. Then he sees Laura again. And Rob begins to think (awful as it sounds) that life as an episode of thirtysomething, with all the kids and marriages and barbecues and k.d. lang CD's that this implies, might not be so bad.

This is one of J's favorite books. He's been bugging me to read this for years now. I finally got around to it. And I really did like the book. My favorite aspect is the writing style. Hornby writes as though Rob (the main character) is sitting across from you in some pub telling you his story. There's an easy-ness to the writing that I just loved. As to the characters, Rob reminded me so much of J. I can see why he really likes this book. It's almost part of his life story. Laura is a bit of a flat character, but that's okay. The story isn't about the romance between Rob and Laura. The story is about Rob's life now and his dreams and aspirations. I really enjoyed getting to know Rob and his quirky sense of life.

Movie:

The movie is one of the truest adaptations of a novel that I've ever seen. I really really like this movie. It retains the conversational style of the novel. It retains the quirky characters -- great casting, especially Jack Black as Barry. They make minor changes (like some of the bands mentioned). They make one major change (London to Chicago). But those changes don't bother me at all. The changes don't make a negative impact on the story. Great movie. Great music. Great characters.

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

Title: The Fault in Our Stars

Author: John Green

Publisher: Dutton's Children 2012

Genre: YA Contemporary

Pages: 337

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: US of YA; NPR Teen; Books to Movies; ebook; New Author

Despite the tumor-shrinking medical miracle that has bought her a few years, Hazel has never been anything but terminal, her final chapter inscribed upon diagnosis. But when a gorgeous plot twist named Augustus Waters suddenly appears at Cancer Kid Support Group, Hazel’s story is about to be completely rewritten.
Insightful, bold, irreverent, and raw, The Fault in Our Stars is award-winning-author John Green’s most ambitious and heartbreaking work yet, brilliantly exploring the funny, thrilling, and tragic business of being alive and in love.

Our first book club selection of 2014! I have heard absolutely amazing things about this book. That's why I put it up for consideration for our January club selection. The reality of the book didn't live up to all the expectations. It's a good book. I might even say it's a great book. But, I think it's a great book for someone else. I think if I had read this when I was 16 it would have been great. As I am now 31, it's just a good book. The love story seemed a bit too teenagey for me. I wanted a bit more depth to the romance. The sections about life and death are really what kept me sucked into the book. Gus and Hazel's look at life was interesting and thought-provoking. I especially loved the eulogies at Augustus's pre-funeral. I would love to be remembered that way instead of some empty platitudes about living a good life. I would love the real me to appear at my funeral. Overall, I think TFiOS is a really really good book. I just couldn't give it 5 stars.