A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin

Title: A Game of Thrones (Song of Fire and Ice #1)

Author: George R.R. Martin

Publisher: Bantam 1996

Genre: Epic Fantasy

Pages: 835

Rating: 5 / 5 stars

Reading Challenges: T4MC -- Fantasy/Scifi/Steampunk; Genre -- Epic Fantasy; Mount TBR; New Authors; Page to Screen

How I Got It: I own it

Long ago, in a time forgotten, a preternatural event threw the seasons out of balance. In a land where summers can last decades and winters a lifetime, trouble is brewing. The cold is returning, and in the frozen wastes to the north of Winterfell, sinister and supernatural forces are massing beyond the kingdom’s protective Wall. At the center of the conflict lie the Starks of Winterfell, a family as harsh and unyielding as the land they were born to. Sweeping from a land of brutal cold to a distant summertime kingdom of epicurean plenty, here is a tale of lords and ladies, soldiers and sorcerers, assassins and bastards, who come together in a time of grim omens.
Here an enigmatic band of warriors bear swords of no human metal; a tribe of fierce wildlings carry men off into madness; a cruel young dragon prince barters his sister to win back his throne; and a determined woman undertakes the most treacherous of journeys. Amid plots and counterplots, tragedy and betrayal, victory and terror, the fate of the Starks, their allies, and their enemies hangs perilously in the balance, as each endeavors to win that deadliest of conflicts: the game of thrones.

I've been meaning to get around to reading this for awhile, but somehow I kept putting it off. Well, I finally starting reading while traveling home to California. And I'm so glad I did. It was unbelievably amazing. Martin has created such an intricate world with a variety of peoples and histories. I wept with Daenerys and raged against the Lannisters (except for Tyrion). I feared with Jon Snow and the Night's Watch and delighted in Arya's swordplay. I speed through all 835 pages in a few days. I couldn't wait to see what happened next. Even the changing points of view didn't bother me like they usually do. I have no idea how Martin will wrap any of this up, but I'm definitely reading them all.

Television Series:

I watched the series before reading the book, but no matter. The creators changed little things here and there, but mostly kept right to the storyline. I love the actors, but Peter Dinklage is my absolutely favorite. He is amazing as Tyrion Lannister. And Kit Harrington has an amazing strength as Jon Snow. And Emilia Clarke as Daenerys is just gorgeous. I can't wait to see what happens in season 2.

A Song of Fire and Ice:

A Game of Thrones
A Clash of Kings
A Storm of Swords
A Feast for Crows
A Dance with Dragons
The Winds of Winter

Chicken with Plums by Marjane Satrapi

Title: Chicken with Plums

Author: Marjane Satrapi

Publisher: Pantheon 2006

Genre: Graphic Novel

Pages: 90

Rating: 3 / 5 stars

Reading Challenges: Graphic Novel; Women Author; Mount TBR; Book Bingo -- 2 from TBR; T4MC -- Women Author (15 points)

We are in Tehran in 1958, and Nasser Ali Khan, one of Iran’s most revered tar players, discovers that his beloved instrument is irreparably damaged. Though he tries, he cannot find one to replace it, one whose sound speaks to him with the same power and passion with which his music speaks to others. In despair, he takes to his bed, renouncing the world and all its pleasures, closing the door on the demands and love of his wife and his four children. Over the course of the week that follows, his family and close friends attempt to change his mind, but Nasser Ali slips further and further into his own reveries: flashbacks and flash-forwards (with unexpected appearances by the likes of the Angel of Death and Sophia Loren) from his own childhood through his children’s futures. And as the pieces of his story slowly fall into place, we begin to understand the profundity of his decision to give up life.

Interesting story... I must admit that I liked her Persepolis series much better than this one. But this volume does have some redeeming qualities. I loved the look into the head of Nasser Ali. Instead of a linear story, we get flashbacks and almost stream of consciousness. It's an interesting choice of style. I liked it. And the drawings were amazing as ever. The stark black and white with figures really lends powers to the story.

Wanted by Mark Millar, JG Jones, and Paul Mounts

Title: Wanted

Author: Mark Millar, JG Jones, Paul Mounts

Publisher: Image Comics 2008

Genre: Graphic Novel

Pages: 208

Rating: 4/5 stars Movie: 4/5

Reading Challenges: Graphic Novel; Mount TBR; 52 Books in 52 Weeks -- Week 1; Book Bingo -- 2 from TBR; T4MC -- M Author (15 points)

First review of 2013!!!!

What if everything in your life was out of your hands and those around you propelled your fate? Your girlfriend left you for your best friend; your boss gave your job to someone better. What if then, after all this, someone gave you back total control? What if he revealed you were the next in line to join a secret society of super-villains that controlled the entire planet? Mark Millar and J.G. Jones provide a look at one man who goes from being the world's biggest loser to the deadliest assassin alive.

My initial reaction was "that reminded me of Kick-Ass." And then I actually looked at the authors and realized that Millar wrote both. Silly me. This volume still reminds me of Kick-Ass with the hyper-action violence and larger than life characters. But at the core, we get a story of lifelike characters. Even with the costumes or superpowers, at their core these characters are just like us. I really enjoyed the story of Wesley's transformation. As an extra note, this volume also reminds me of The Boys, but without the really interesting political angle.

Movie:

I saw the movie two years, obviously before reading the comic. At the time I thought it was a somewhat interesting story, but I wasn't over the moon for it.

After reading the comic, I have a new found appreciation for the film. It's definitely different, but keeps the main story of Wesley Gibson intact. We see his transformation from pathetic loser to top assassin. The movie ditched the superhero and supervillian angle, but the story and tone stays. And the movie is shot beautifully. All of the special effects and stunts pull the watcher into a fantastical world. Plus James McAvoy is just outstanding...

52 Books Week 1: Journey to Your Imagination

This week's theme was books set in Canada. Unfortunately I have a limited selection this week as I am not at home. Instead of the theme, I am just going with the first read of the year.

Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep by Philip K. Dick / Blade Runnner

Title: Do Android Dream of Electric Sheep?

Author: Philip K. Dick

Publisher: Del Ray Books 1968

Genre: Science Fiction

Pages: 190

Rating: 5/5 stars Movie: 5/5

Reading Challenges: Science Fiction; Book 2 Movie: Mount TBR; Fall into Reading; My Years -- 1982 (for the movie)

How I Got It: Own it

By 2021, the World War had killed millions, driving entire species into extinction and sending mankind off-planet. Those who remained coveted any living creature, and for people who couldn't afford one, companies built incredibly realistic simulacrae: horses, birds, cats, sheep. . . They even built humans.
Emigrées to Mars received androids so sophisticated it was impossible to tell them from true men or women. Fearful of the havoc these artificial humans could wreak, the government banned them from Earth. But when androids didn't want to be identified, they just blended in.
Rick Deckard was an officially sanctioned bounty hunter whose job was to find rogue androids, and to retire them. But cornered, androids tended to fight back, with deadly results.

Book

Another science fiction book that tempted me but with trepidations. I haven't had the best luck with previous science fiction, but this one exceeded my expectations. I immediately connected with the character of Rick and his struggles to be a success in this destroyed world. This book was very character driven. I loved the complexity involved. Plus we get an interesting discussion on humanity and ethics. The two Rachaels were a nice touch. Definitely a must read for me.

Favorite quote:

“Empathy, he once had decided, must be limited to herbivores or anyhow omnivores who could depart from a meat diet. Because, ultimatley, the emphatic gift blurred the boundaries between hunter and victim, between the successful and the defeated. As in the fusion with Mercer, everyone ascended together or, when the cycle had come to an end, fell together into the trough of the tomb world. Oddly, it resembled a sort of biological insurance, but double-edged. As long as some creature experienced joy, then the condition for all other creatures included a fragment of joy. However, if any living being suffered, then for all the rest the shadow could not be entirely cast off. A herd animal such as man would acquire a higher survival factor through this; an owl or a cobra would be destroyed.” Page 27

Movie

I love the world building in this movie. Everything is fantastical, but very lived in and run down. The look just gets me. And the special effects are still amazing even 30 years after. While liberties are taken with the story, it makes sense in the world that Dick created. The actors are all amazing and just perfect for their roles. I especially love Sean Young's Rachael. She was my favorite character from the book and she's my favorite character in the movie. Overall, I just really enjoy this one. And they got rid of Deckard's wife, which definitely livened up the pacing.

A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle

Title: A Wrinkle in Time

Author: Madeleine L'Engle

Publisher: Bantam Doubleday 1962

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 198

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Classics -- Award Winner; Mount TBR; Fall into Reading

How I Got It: I own it

Fifty years ago, Madeleine L’Engle introduced the world to A Wrinkle in Time and the wonderful and unforgettable characters Meg and Charles Wallace Murry, and their friend Calvin O’Keefe. When the children learn that Mr. Murry has been captured by the Dark Thing, they time travel to Camazotz, where they must face the leader IT in the ultimate battle between good and evil—a journey that threatens their lives and our universe.

This is technically a re-read but it's been a while since I read it. This is one of those books from childhood that I enjoyed, but didn't love completely. I thought it was a bit fantasy adventure fun. Reading it now, I see the whole story as a more interesting discussion about destiny, good and evil, science, and philosophy. What do we make of Mrs. Which, Whatsit, and Who? Are they good beings or just self-interested beings? What about It? Is It completely evil or having the potential for good? I think this brings in a ton of questions. I've never read the rest of the series. J tells me that the next two are decent reads, but the last two are throw aways. Reading this volume again, I am interested in reading the rest of the series. Maybe next year...

Time Quintet

#1 A Wrinkle in Time
#2 A Wind in the Door
#3 A Swiftly Tilting Planet
#4 Many Waters
#5 An Acceptable Time

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

Title: Jane Eyre

Author: Charlotte Bronte

Genre: Classics

Pages: 533

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Mixing It Up -- Classics; Mount TBR; Books2Movies; Fall into Reading

This is one of those classics that I just never got around to reading, and it's all because of Wuthering Heights. I read Wuthering Heights back in high school and absolutely hated it. It was dull. the characters were stupid, the story wasn't anything exciting. That experience turned me off to all the Bronte sisters' work. And so I never actually read Jane Eyre. Of course I knew the story and saw the movies, but I never read the book. That all changed today.

I read it and actually liked it. It doesn't beat Jane Austen, but I did grow to love Jane Eyre. She's an odd character, meek yet strong, naive yet worldly. Mrs. Fairfax is a bright spot in the gloom of Thornfield Hall. Adele is a bit annoying, but thankfully she's only occasionally mentioned. And Mr. Rochester is very dreamy. I didn't care for the autobiographical style of the novel. It seemed very silly to me throughout. I would have rather had third person storytelling. At times Bronte rambles, but overall I enjoyed the novel.

Movie version (2006 mini-series):

This was the first one that I saw. I loved this adaptation so much. Jane is just plain enough, but has that spirit. I loved the moody atmosphere of the mini series. Toby Stephens has a great ability to switch from moody to light-hearted in an instant. Plus, that painting in the corridor... creepy creepy creepy. Out of the two adaptationsI like this one more.

Movie version (2011 film):

I was excited to see this one as it starred Michael Fassbender, but I wasn't completely sold on the movie. I did not really like the changes in timeline in telling the story. Starting with Jane's running away seemed like an odd choice. Mia Waskowska just didn't sit right with me as Jane. She as too withdrawn. I wanted someone a bit more feisty. Just not the best. But I must say that Judi Dench as Mrs. Fairfax is just awesome.

Movie Quotes -- 1990s Edition

Back in high school, I kept a quote notebook. Anytime I ran across an interesting or funny quote I would put it in the book. I eventually filled that notebook and started another. I recently unearthed those notebooks to use for ideas for my Quote Wednesday posts. While perusing the notebook, I ran across a huge section of movie quotes from the 1990s. These were the movies that I watched over and over again in high school. For today's fun, I thought I would share those quotes. But you have to guess what movie they are from... (don't worry, answers will be at the bottom of the post) 1. What's with you today, Lucas? Yesterday you were normal, today you're like the Chinese guy from the Karate Kid.

1. What's with today, today?

2. Slappy, Swammy, Swans, Swanson? Maybe it's on the briefcase. Ah, Samonsite, I was way off!

3. If I saw myself dressed like that, I'd have to kick my own ass.

4. Yeah, but when the Pirates of the Caribbean breaks down, the pirates down eat the tourists.

5. Men should be like Kleenex: soft, strong, and disposable.

6. I figure we demand some weird stuff so that later we can plead insanity.

7. Go, go Buffalo!

8. I'd like to quit thinking of the present as some minor insignificant preamble to something else.

9. What, you think just cause a guy reads comics he can't start shit?

10. Have I stepped over some line in the sands of coolness with you?

11. What was that? You're trailing off... and did I catch a "niner" in there? Were you calling from a walkie talkie?

12. A gun rack? A gun rack. I don't even own ahh gun, let alone many guns that would necessitate an entire rack!

13. I guess in the end I'm just a trendy ass poser.

14. Are you asking me out? That's so cute; what's your name again?

15. I think most Scottish cuisine is based on a dare.

Make your guesses now...

Go on... you know you quote some of these at any given opportunity...

And now for the answers...

Answers:

1. Empire Records (1994)

2. Dumb and Dumber (1994)

3. Happy Gilmore (1996)

4. Jurassic Park (1993)

5. Clueless (1995)

6. Airheads (1994)

7. Idle Hands (1999)

8. Dazed and Confused (1993)

9. Mallrats (1993)

10. Reality Bites (1994)

11. Tommy Boy (1995)

12. Wayne's World (1992)

13. SLC Punk (1998) -- love Heroin Bob!

14. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

15. So I Married an Axe Murderer (1993)

Persuasion by Jane Austen

Title: Persuasion

Author: Jane Austen

Pages: 333

Rating: 5 /5 stars

Reading Challenges: Back to the Classics -- Reread; Mount TBR; Book2Movie; Fall into Reading

How I Got It: Own It!

Book

Say what you want about Elizabeth Bennett, Anne Elliott has always been my favorite Austen heroine. Underneath it all, she's the one that keeps the Elliott household running, even in Bath. She understands who she is and what mistakes she has made in the past. She knows people and how to deal with them. I love this story of growing up and realizing your mistakes. Plus Captain Wentworth is just so dreamy! Definitely my favorite of all of Austen's novels.

BBC Miniseries :

A few years ago I had a short-lived book club with some of my high schoolers. We read Persuasion and then I hosted a movie night to enjoy a viewing. Afterward we went around yelling "Wentworth" all over school. Good times good times.

As to the actual movie, this is my favorite adaptation. The casting perfectly fits the characters. Anthony Stewart Head is imposing as Sir Walter, perfect casting. Amanda Hale is a nervous wreck of a Mary. Rupert Penry-Jones is just dreamy as Captain Wentworth. And Sally Hawkins has those long looks so perfect for playing Anne. My absolute favorite scene is the first time that Anne and the Captain meet again. Their looks convey a huge range of emotions. In that instance, you know that they still love each other even with the betrayals of the past. And I love all the scenes in Bath if for nothing more than the architecture in Bath. Even the deviations from the novel fit with the story and characters. I forgive the filmmakers and still watch it over and over again.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling -- Part 2

Because there are two movies, I tend to think about this book in two parts. So I am splitting my review into two parts corresponding with the break in movies. Part 2 covers pages 503-759 of the hardcover edition.

Title: Harry Potter and the Deadly Hallows

Author: J.K. Rowling

Publisher: Scholastic 2007

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Pages: 759

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: HP

How I Got It: Own it! (in pretty hardcover no less)

This one is a reread for me. It's been awhile since I read the series. I remember reading the first couple of books out loud to the boys when they were infants. SO that's what, eight years ago? I read the last few books as they came out, but overall it's been awhile.

Instead of doing a traditional review, I thought I would just give you some of my reread thoughts. Things I noticed, things I loved, quotes I like, etc. And then I will have a mini review of movie vs. book.

Book fun

Favorite scenes:

Break-in at Gringotts -- This entire scene feels like an amusement park ride complete with scary dragon.
Harry standing up for Professor McGonagall -- Such a small gesture, but beautiful.
The entire last 100 pages of the book -- Of course. Amazing. Heartbreaking. Satisfying.

Favorite character(s):

Neville Longbottom -- Who knew the scrawny kid in the first year would eventually land the killing blow to Nagini and stand up to all of the Death Eaters.

Other odds and ends:

The story of Ariana's death is just heartbreaking. That story alone explains so much about Dumbledore and his regrets.
Along the same lines, Helena Ravenclaw's story involving the Bloody Baron also breaks my heart.
Snape's memories feel like a stopping in the story although I understand why they are there and that they set up Harry is truly understand what he needs to do.
I loved that Draco gets a semi-redemption in the end.
I burst into tears not when Fred, Remus, and Tonks died, but when the ghosts appear in the forrest. Ugh! I bawled for pages afterwards.
I still think I could have done without the epilogue...

Favorite quotes:

"Because," said Harry before Hermione could answer, "sometimes you've got to think about more than your own safety! Sometimes you've got to think about the greater good!" (pg. 568)

"Hallows," murmured Dumbledore, "not Horcruxes, Precisely." (pg. 713)

"It is a curious thing, Harry, but perhaps those who are best suited to power are those who have never sought it. Those who, like you, have leadership thrust upon them, and take up the mantle because they must, and find to their own surprose that they wear it well." (Dumbledore pg. 718)

"NOT MY DAUGHTER, YOU BITCH!" (Mrs. Weasley pg. 736)

Movie fun Part 2

My favorite scenes:

Inside the Lestrange vault. The multiplying treasure is just gorgeous to watch.
At much as I like the ending battle scenes, they are very different than the book's versions.

Things I wished to see, but didn't:

Some of the little moments in the book that just aren't there.

Other odds and ends:

The opening shot of the dementors surrounding the castle and Snape standing in the window is breathtaking. Beautifully shot.
I love the conversation between Griphook and Harry at the cottage. Griphook has the right mix of contempt and curiosity.
The dead Gringott's employees was a bit of a weird addition.
Loved the little before the battle moments of preparation, especially Mrs. Weasley and McGonagall calling forth the statues.

Harry Potter:

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling -- Part 1

Because there are two movies, I tend to think about this book in two parts. So I am splitting my review into two parts corresponding with the break in movies. Part 1 covers pages 1-502 of the hardcover edition.

Title: Harry Potter and the Deadly Hallows

Author: J.K. Rowling

Publisher: Scholastic 2007

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Pages: 759

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: HP

How I Got It: Own it! (in pretty hardcover no less)

This one is a reread for me. It's been awhile since I read the series. I remember reading the first couple of books out loud to the boys when they were infants. SO that's what, eight years ago? I read the last few books as they came out, but overall it's been awhile.

Instead of doing a traditional review, I thought I would just give you some of my reread thoughts. Things I noticed, things I loved, quotes I like, etc. And then I will have a mini review of movie vs. book.

Book fun:

Favorite scenes:

Goodbye scene with the Dursleys -- It's bittersweet. You want to hate the Dursleys for how they treated Harry and yet I love how Dudley finally says something. And I screamed at Petunia to say something comforting...
Bill and Fleur's wedding -- I love the descriptions and seeing all the Weasley's together (expect for Percy of course).
Bathilda Bagshot and Godric's Hollow -- I know what's coming but this scene still scares the crap out of me. Maybe it's the dead body, maybe it's the snake. All I know is it is extra extra creepy.

Favorite character(s):

Kreacher -- Bet you weren't expecting that one... I really love how he begrudgingly but finally accepts Harry as his master. Plus his sneakiness comes in handy when they are trying to find the locket.
Ron -- He leaves, he's a git, but he redeems himself by destroying the Horcrux and trying to get on Hermione's good side throughout most of the book.

Other odds and ends:

I cried over Hedwig and downright bawled over Dobby. I cried for them more than I did when Dumbledore died. Plus I got a bit verklempt with George's injury.
I detest Scrimgeour with a passion. Ugh! So not sorry when he dies.
I love the description of Luna's bedroom with the painting of her friends. She is always one of my favorite characters.

Favorite quotes:

"He looked away, trying not to betray the resentment he felt. There is was again: Choose what to believe. He wanted the truth. Why was everybody so determined that he should not get it?" (pg. 185) -- When Harry learns of Rita Skeeter's book. He has to get over these selfish thoughts to see the truth later on...

Movie fun Part 1

My favorite scenes:

Big chase scene with the 7 Harrys -- It's different than the book but with the same adrenaline rush and danger.
Bathilda Bagshot and Godric's Hollow -- Creepiest scene ever. I jumped in the theater when Nagini is revealed. I jumped again in my home when I knew exactly how it was going to happen. Creepy creepy!
Favorite hands-down: The Tale of the Three Brothers -- I loved loved loved the animation and the creepy shadow figures. It fits perfectly with the story and set-up.

Things I wished to see, but didn't:

More Lupin and Tonks. The movie cryptically alludes to Tonks' pregnancy, but it's mostly left out. Pretty big deal in the books.
Something with Dumbledore and his family. I like that side story in the books and yet no mention in the movies.
Wormtail death. Stunning him in the cell just seems to let him off easily. I would have felt more complete with his death.

Other odds and ends:

I liked the change in opening to Rufus Scrimgeour's statement about the Ministry. While it is untrue, I like the foreshadowing and foreboding it creates. The same is true for Hermione, Ron, and Harry's saying goodbye to their "homes."
Fleur's dress is just gorgeous. I really wanted to see more of it.
I like how they folded visions from Voldemort into some backstory for those nonrabid fans.

Harry Potter:

Twelfth Night by Shakespeare

Title: Twelfth Night or What You Will

Author: William Shakespeare

Genre: Classic Plays

Pages: 92

Rating: 5 / 5 stars

Reading Challenges: Shakespeare; Book2Movies

Play

I've always been a fan of Twelfth Night. I am going to say it's because of the mistaken identify. I love the interplay between the characters and their identities. Viola is an amazing female character for Shakespeare. I feel for her. I understand her. I admire her wit and intelligence. I may say that she is my favorite of Shakespeare's women. The best scenes are the interplay between her and the Lady Olivia. We see this great back and forth of wits. With my love of characters, I do have a few issues with the play. What happens to Malvolio? How does Olivia feel about marrying Cesario's (Viola's) dead brother mistakenly? I might have some issues with the consequences. I also have an issue with the unresolved Clown. What happen's after? It seems that Shakespeare ended the play a bit too early.

Extra fun note curtesy of IMDB: The play was referenced in the movie V For Vendetta. The character V quotes: "Conceal me what I am, and be my aid...for such disguise as haply shall become the form of my intent" as he's dancing with Evey.

Movie Adaptation -- 1988 Kenneth Branagh directed production

This isn't a movie adaptation, it's a filmed stage production. I love that the audience gets the feel of being in the theater. However, I do not love the set design. Everything is gray and white and a barren graveyard. I just so not a fan of the stark set. A bit more color would have been nice. Plus, the clown was very tiring and his hair just distracted me. It was an interesting adaptation, but not my favorite (and definitely not my favorite Branagh Shakespeare. I much prefer Much Ado About Nothing or Othello.

The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde

Title: The Importance of Being Earnest

Author: Oscar Wilde

Genre: Classic play (1895 play / 2002 movie)

Pages: 92

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Classics -- Play; Mount TBR; Books2Movie

How I Got It: Own it

Play:

I absolutely adore this play. The back and forth between Algy and Jack keeps me going. I love their battles of wits. And the mistaken identity aspect adds way too much fun. Plus, Wilde is the best at turning a phrase. This play is full of great lines and comebacks.

Some choice quotes:

"When one is in town one amuses oneself. When one is in the country one amuses other people." - Act 1

"All women become like their mothers. That is their tragedy. No man does. That's his." - Act 1

"The truth is rarely pure and never simple. Modern life would be very tedious if it were either, and modern literature a complete impossibility!" - Act 1

"Relations are simply a tedious pack of people, who haven’t got the remotest knowledge of how to live, nor the smallest instinct about when to die." - Act 1

"I never travel without my diary. One should always have something sensational to read in the train." - Act 2

"I could deny it if I liked. I could deny anything if I liked." - Act 2

"Oh! I killed Bunbury this afternoon. I mean poor Bunbury died this afternoon." - Act 3

"The chin a little higher, dear. Style largely depends on the way the chin is worn. They are worn very high, just at present." - Act 3

"Gwendolen, it is a terrible thing for a man to find out suddenly that all his life he has been speaking nothing but the truth. Can you forgive me?" - Act 3

"I've now realised for the first time in my life the vital Importance of Being Earnest." - Act 3

2002 Movie:

The movie adds things here and there, but overall keeps the spirit of the play. I love all the actors. Rupert Everett plays he best scheming Algy. Colin Firth is divine as Jack/Ernest. Dame Judi Dench always plays the stiff Brit. And Reese Witherspoon plays the perfect innocent, but not really innocent, Cecily. The addition of Cecily's governess/tutor. Does anyone else think that Archer's manservant is modeled after Algy's manservant Lane? I think so.

Richard III by Shakespeare

Title: Richard III

Author: William Shakespeare

Genre: Classic Plays

Pages: 158

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Shakespeare; Book2Movies

Play

History or tragedy? Even Wikipedia doesn't know. I am going to all it a history. While there are definitely tragic elements, we aren't supposed to identify with Richard. The villainous villain of all of Shakespeare... and he's the main character. I can not get over it! He does have the most amazing monologues throughout the play. Shakespeare is known for his monologues, but these are over the top. I especially love the scene on the battlefield after the ghosts have visited Richard. Oh how the mighty have fallen! Not one of my favorite plays, but a very interesting history.

1955 Movie Adaptation

Before I say anything about the content, I must remark on the ridiculous costumes. they are so comical and colorful. They look like something that belongs in Disney World. I Just can't get past them. On to the content. Laurence Olivier is just amazing. He exudes villainy and treachery. And that wig is just perfect for the nasty king. I was a bit unnerved at his monologues directly into the cameras. It's a bit odd for a movie. It made me feel that I was part of Richard's evil plan to get the crown. But the performance is just right. Last note... I love how unrealistically people from old movies kiss. That just looked awkward.

Much Ado About Nothing by Shakespeare

Title: Much Ado About Nothing

Author: William Shakespeare

Genre: Classic Plays

Pages: 98

Rating: 5 / 5 stars

Reading Challenges: Shakespeare; Books2Movie

Play

I love the interplay of characters in this one. We get some interesting pairs and foils. While I don't find the laughs like I do in A Midsummer Night's Dream, there are some good moments. Most of those moments come with banter between Beatrice and Benedick. Beyond the content and characters, I do find it fascinating that this play in written mostly in prose. We get Shakespeare's fun with verse occasionally, but most of it is straight verse. And I do love that it's set in Messina on Sicily. The setting gives the play a different feel than many of his northern settings.

Movie Adaptation

I decided to watch the 1993 Kenneth Branaugh version as Emma Thompson and Branaugh are amazing as Beatrice and Benedick. Overall, their love story is the one that I watch. Hero and Claudio's is too "love at first sight" nonsense leading to (in my opinion) Claudio's false accusation of Hero. Of course, that is just my issue with Shakespeare's story. I do love the blocking and sets in the film. The rustic charm is to die for. I want to visit. And the costumes are appropriately wore in. Overall, I think this is one of favorite adaptations of any Shakespeare work.

Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen

Title: Northanger Abbey

Author: Jane Austen

Pages: 239

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Classics - Romance; Mount TBR; Book2Movie

How I Got It: Own It!

Northanger Abbey is fast becoming my second favorite Austen (after Persuasion, of course). I love Catherine Morland. She may be young and naive, but she grows. She becomes a woman right in front of the reader. I love the progression more than anything. I see an early version of Emma in Catherine. She's not as well defined as a character, but the idea of character so wrong in her worldview comes through. This volume doesn't have the recognizable quotes that Pride and Prejudice does, but it does have some good discussions between Tilney and Catherine about life and literature. And the novel doesn't have the extensive social commentary so prominent in P&P and Sense and Sensibility and Mansfield Park. But that's okay. This is more of a nice story of a girl growing into a woman and falling in love.

BBC Miniseries :

I love this movie. I love the leads, Felicity Jones and JJ Fields. I love the Abbey. I love Bath. I even love Isabella Thorpe, that snake. (Carey Mulligan is equal parts likable and killable...) Every part was perfectly cast. I don't even mind the dramatization of Catherine's gothic stories. It fits with her character even if Jane Austen didn't write them in there. In fact, this is fast becoming my third favorite movie adaptation of Austen (after P&P BBC version and Persuasion new BBC version).

The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman

Title: The Golden Compass (His Dark Materials #1)

Author: Philip Pullman

Publisher: Alfred Knopf 1995

Genre: YA Fantasy

Pages: 399

Rating: 5 / 5 stars

Reading Challenges: YA; My Years -- 1995; Mount TBR; Book2Movie

How I Got It: I own it!

In The Golden Compass, readers meet 11-year-old Lyra Belacqua, a precocious orphan growing up within the precincts of Jordan College in Oxford, England. It quickly becomes clear that Lyra's Oxford is not precisely like our own—nor is her world. In Lyra's world, everyone has a personal dæmon, a lifelong animal familiar. This is a world in which science, theology and magic are closely intertwined.

This book is so much more than I thought it would be. I went into the book thinking it was a YA Fantasy novel (more or less). But this story has so many layers. Pullman throws in theology and philosophy and ethics and history and sociology and psychology. This is a story of who we are and where we came from. As Lyra learns of the world around her and makes mistakes, we journey with her. We encounter the same puzzling questions and dilemmas. We sometimes make mistakes and sometimes make the right choices. We learn of parallel universes and the possibilities they hold. We learn of deceit and betrayal, but also of loyalty. We learn what it means to be human and bear and witch and daemon and everything else. I loved the characters and the settings and the adventure. But I really loved the revelations and conversations. The plot helps us to journey along the path to a higher realization of the universe. I can't wait to jump into the second book, The Subtle Knife. I'm told we travel even further down the rabbit hole.

Movie Version:

I saw this movie before reading the book and even then I thought it was bad. Now I know how truly bad it is. They took a wonderfully complicated novel and turned it into a silly family adventure movie. All the complexities are gone. Although somehow they are hinted at, leaving the audience in complete confusion. They cut out huge swaths of the plot line. Characters disappeared everywhere (especially my favorite, the witches). I think part of the problem is summed up by this bit of trivia courtesy of IMDB.com

Director Chris Weitz has himself adapted Philip Pullman's work, citing the film and its sequels to be influenced by Barry Lyndon and Star Wars. He also mentioned that the film would make no direct mention of religion or God, two of the key themes of the books - a decision attacked by fans of the trilogy. According to Weitz, New Line Cinema feared that "perceived anti-religiosity" would make the film financially unviable in the USA. However, Weitz reassured fans by saying that religion would appear in euphemistic terms.

His Dark Materials:

#1 The Golden Compass
#2 The Subtle Knife
#3 The Amber Spyglass

The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum

Title: The Wizard of Oz

Author: L. Frank Baum

Published: 1900

Genre: Classics; Satire

Pages: 198

Rating: 3/5 stars 1939 movie: 4/5 Tin Man: 5/5

Reading Challenges: Mount TBR; Classics -- 19th Century ; Book2Movies

How I Got It: I own it!

Dorothy thinks she is lost forever when a terrifying tornado crashes through Kansas and whisks her and her dog, Toto, far away to the magical land of Oz. To get home Dorothy must follow the yellow brick road to Emerald City and find the wonderfully mysterious Wizard of Oz. Together with her companions the Tin Woodman, the Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion whom she meets on the way, Dorothy embarks on a strange and enchanting adventure.

I read this slim novel way back in elementary school and loved it. So this is a reread for me. And I have to say that I'm disappointed. I still love the storyline. I love the different lands that Dorothy and her friends travel to. I especially love the Emerald City. It's a fun interesting little story. But then I look at the writing and I am sorely disappointed. It's just a badly written book. Every paragraph feels stilted. I'd rather pick up some Chopin or Dreiser or Lewis or Tolkien. Oh well...

1939 Movie Version:

I loved this movie as a child. I loved the glittering colors, the fanciful characters, and the singing. Rewatching this as an adult, I still love this movie. Although it is a far cry from the book. My favorite scene has to be the tornado. It's amazing to think that in 1939 they could pull off something that gorgeous. It boggles my mind. My favorite character is the Wicked Witch of the West. I'm glad they decided to expand her character from the book. She has some of the best lines.

Scifi Version Tin Man:

An interesting updated version of Wizard of Oz. Zooey Deschanel is just amazing, but then again I allows love her. And the sets are just gorgeous. Can we talk about the costumes? The sorceress Azkadellia's fantastic costumes are a treat to behold. I love that DG wears Dorothy's 1939 dress as a waitress uniform. The idea of a Dorothy or DG lost outside her world is an interesting one. The monkeys are a real treat. And Zero is just awesome as the head of Azkadellia's guards. But the best characters is definitely the Tin Man. He's a great foil to DG. Overall, I love how the movie gives nods here and there to the original story, but puts its own spin.

Oz:

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
The Marvelous Land of Oz
Ozma of Oz
Dorothy and the Wizard of Oz
The Road to Oz
The Emerald City of Oz
The Patchwork Girl of Oz
Tik-Tok of Oz
The Scarecrow of Oz
Rinkitink in Oz
The Lost Princess of Oz
The Tin Woodman of Oz
The Magic of Oz
Glinda of Oz

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling

Title: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

Author: J.K. Rowling

Publisher: Scholastic 2006

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Pages: 652

Rating: 5 / 5 stars

Reading Challenges: HP

How I Got It: Own it! (in pretty hardcover no less)

This one is a reread for me. It's been awhile since I read the series. I remember reading the first couple of books out loud to the boys when they were infants. SO that's what, eight years ago? I read the last few books as they came out, but overall it's been awhile.

Instead of doing a traditional review, I thought I would just give you some of my reread thoughts. Things I noticed, things I loved, quotes I like, etc. And then I will have a mini review of movie vs. book.

Book fun:

Favorite scene:

Every one of the memories of Tom Riddle. They are so illuminating. I really wish they included them in the movie...
The opening scene between the Minister of Magic and the Prime Minister. It's a great opening sequence showing the interaction between the magical and muggle world. Another thing I really wish they would have put in the movie.

Favorite character(s):

Narcissa Black Malfoy -- Even though she's only in it for one actual scene, I love her. I especially love the contrast between her and her sister Bellatrix.
Ron and Hermione -- Their whole will-they or won't-they is fascinating. I just adore them. And I especially love the scene in the hospital.

Other odds and ends:

I forgot how angry Harry is in this movie... Teenage angst is a bit much.
There's a whole passage on pages 180-181 comparing Harry and Snape. As much as Harry doesn't want to admit it, they are very similar.
Slughorn is a great side character.

Favorite quotes:

No one really sticks out to me.

Movie fun

My favorite scenes:

Ron and Hermione's fight with the birds -- I love the emotional vulnerability in this scene. It just works.
Slughorn Christmas Party -- Between Hermione avoiding Cormac and Harry wanting Ginny, this is a great scene of teenage hormones. Plus it just looks pretty.

Things I wished to see, but didn't:

The book's opening sequence. Unfortunately they change to one (Harry in the tube station) that doesn't really make a lot of sense. However I did love the destruction of the bridge and Diagon Alley. It's mentioned in the book, but to see the raw power from the Death Eaters is just terrifying.
Harry and Ginny's kiss in front of the entire Gryffindor common room. The small kiss in the room of requirement just doesn't really work.

Other odds and ends:

In the books, I love Ginny Weasley. She's a great mix of Fred and George and Mrs. Weasley. I understand why Harry likes her. Yet, in the movies, she's more of a wet blanket. The movies rob her of all the interesting aspects of her personalty. Very sad change of character from books to movies...
I loved loved loved watching Draco's transformation from arrogant elitist to broken little boy. It makes his realization of what's right and wrong that much better. Tom Felton really gave him a haunted look in most of the scenes.
Attack on the Burrow -- WHY!?!?! It's just completely wrong...

Harry Potter:

Starship Troopers by Robert Heinlein

Title: Starship Troopers

Author: Robert Heinlein

Publisher: Ace Science Fiction 1959

Genre: SciFi

Pages: 264

Rating: 4/5 stars Movie: 2/5

Reading Challenges: Scifi; Mount TBR; Book2Movie

How I Got It: I own it!

In one of Robert Heinlein's most controversial bestsellers, a recruit of the future goes through the toughest boot camp in the Universe--and into battle with the Terran Mobile Infantry against mankind's most frightening enemy.

J's initial assessment is that I needed to read this before reading The Moon is a Harsh Mistress. According to him, it's a political philosophy treatise in disguise. And I agree completely. The summary above is really only a tiny part of the book. Interspersed with stories of boot camp and the war with the Bugs, we get discussions of philosophy. Throughout the book, I lived for those parts. At times, I found myself skimming a bit, but then a good paragraph would pop up. Some of my favorite passages:

"Nothing of value is free. Even the breath of life is purchased at birth only through gasping effort and pain. . . . The best things in life are beyond money; their price is agony and sweat and devotion . . . and the price demanded for the most precious of all things in life is life itself--ultimate cost for perfect value."(pg. 93)

"War is not violence and killing, pure and simple; war is controlled violence, for a purpose. The purpose of war is to support your government's decisions by force. The purpose is never to kill the enemy just to be killing him...but to make him do what you want to do. Not killing...but controlled and purposeful violence. But it's not your business or mine to decide the purpose of the control. It's never a soldier's business to decide when or where or how—or why—he fights; that belongs to the statesmen and the generals. The statesmen decide why and how much; the generals take it from there and tell us where and when and how. We supply the violence; other people—'older and wiser heads,' as they say—supply the control. Which is as it should be." (pg. 63)

Movie version:

So the creators of the movies took about 10 pages of the book and created a whole B style science fiction movie. It's not absolutely horrible, but it buries all of the interesting points about morality, citizenship, war and franchisement in crazy action sequences and a love story. Plus there is really some bad acting throughout this movie. The leads are just so flat. I did enjoy Sergeant Zim and Mr. Rasczak, but that's really about it. Definitely not a movie that I will ever own. Thank goodness Netflix had it on instant streaming. (And the sequels are even worse)

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J.K. Rowling

Title: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

Author: J.K. Rowling

Publisher: Scholastic 2003

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Pages: 870

Rating: 5 / 5 stars

Reading Challenges: HP; My Years -- 2003

How I Got It: Own it! (in pretty hardcover no less)

This one is a reread for me. It's been awhile since I read the series. I remember reading the first couple of books out loud to the boys when they were infants. SO that's what, eight years ago? I read the last few books as they came out, but overall it's been awhile.

Instead of doing a traditional review, I thought I would just give you some of my reread thoughts. Things I noticed, things I loved, quotes I like, etc. And then I will have a mini review of movie vs. book.

Book fun:

Favorite scene: This is so tough... But I think I'm going to have to go with the big battle in the Ministry of Magic. The way it's written, I am right there in the thick of the action. I almost find myself ducking when spells are thrown.

Favorite character(s): I have a few for this book...

Dolores Umbridge -- A great villain. In this case, we get a bureaucrat for a villain. I just want to smack her every time she coughs. Ugh!
Luna Lovegood -- She's a great addition to the whole crew. I love her weirdness. And underneath she has a great way of looking at the world. I especially love her for helping Harry deal with Sirius' death.
Fred and George Weasley -- They are still my favorite Weasleys. I love them every time they pop up. In this book, they get to be more than just the jokesters. Love them.

Other odds and ends:

While I like the book, I think it's my least favorite of the series. There are so many story lines that it seems very schizophrenic at times. We are introduced to so many new characters (Grawp, Firenze and the centaurs, various Order of the Phoenix members) that I have a hard time connecting to all of them. I think this book could have used a bit more editing to condense some of those storylines.
I cry every time I read the chapter at the end where Dumbledore finally lets Harry know about the prophecy and his plan. I want to yell right along with Harry at the beginning, but I'm always in tears by the end. Very powerful section of the book.
I do love the comeuppance that Draco, Goyle, and Crabbe get on the train ride home.

Favorite quotes:

"Just because you've got the emotional range of a teaspoon doesn't mean we all have." -- Hermione to Ron (pg. 459)

Movie fun

My favorite scenes:

The scene with Luna and the thestrals is just beautiful. I love their conversation among the Forbidden Forrest and the creatures. I especially love the addition of Luna's lost shoes.
As edited at the final battle is, it's still amazing looking. I especially loved Lucius and Bellatrix, very sinister. And the falling of the shelves is just a gorgeous bit of movie magic.

Things I wished to see, but didn't:

More of Fred and George -- They're just amazing

Other odds and ends:

Imelda Staunton as Dolores Umbridge is delicious casting. She is down right evil.
The wall of educational decrees is an inspired bit of set dressing.
They kept my favorite line from the book in the movie. Hee hee!
It makes much more sense to have Cho faultlessly out the Dumbledore Army. It does help edit the various story lines and characters.

Harry Potter: