Question: How good is the book?

Back in 1980, ‘The Clan of the Cave Bear’ was published; it spawned a genre of prehistoric novels, none of which ever grabbed me the way that book did. Jean Auel not only put an incredible amount of research into her books, but her heroine, Alya, was one of the most engaging protagonists I’ve ever ‘met’. I followed the series as this Cro-Magnon superwoman survived being orphaned at age five and then being raised by a band of Neanderthals, learned to hunt, tamed animals, learned herbal healing, and so much more. Auel showed, in an entertaining way, how various things could have been learned and invented. I read that book at a time when I was going through a back to the land phase, and Ayla’s adventures resonated with me.I waited eagerly for each new volume. Sadly, the quality dropped as the series went on; the books started to drag. Still, I could not give up on the series, even though I didn’t get to reading ‘Land of the Painted Caves’ until it had been out for two years. I kind of wish I hadn’t read it at all.There is little in the way of plot; Ayla and the First (the spiritual leader of the caves and her mentor) make a journey to visit all the caves with paintings in the area. There are some personal issues for Ayla, of course, but they seem contrived. And the book is extremely repetitious; every time Ayla is introduced (which, given the travel theme, is very, very often) her entire list of names and affiliations is given as if we have never read them before; as is the fact that she has an accent. We read about every person’s reaction to the horses and to Wolf. While it’s valid that people would have never seen tame animals before, we don’t need to know about every single reaction. Nor about every time Ayla brews up tea. It’s a huge book and I feel would have benefited from some serious editing.It is almost like Auel felt she needed to finish the series but didn’t really have it in her. It’s a sad ending for the Earth’s Children series.

Answer: incredible amount of research into her books

Back in 1980, ‘The Clan of the Cave Bear’ was published; it spawned a genre of prehistoric novels, none of which ever grabbed me the way that book did. <hl> Jean Auel not only put an incredible amount of research into her books , but her heroine, Alya, was one of the most engaging protagonists I’ve ever ‘met’. <hl> I followed the series as this Cro-Magnon superwoman survived being orphaned at age five and then being raised by a band of Neanderthals, learned to hunt, tamed animals, learned herbal healing, and so much more. Auel showed, in an entertaining way, how various things could have been learned and invented. I read that book at a time when I was going through a back to the land phase, and Ayla’s adventures resonated with me. I waited eagerly for each new volume. Sadly, the quality dropped as the series went on; the books started to drag. Still, I could not give up on the series, even though I didn’t get to reading ‘Land of the Painted Caves’ until it had been out for two years. I kind of wish I hadn’t read it at all. There is little in the way of plot; Ayla and the First (the spiritual leader of the caves and her mentor) make a journey to visit all the caves with paintings in the area. There are some personal issues for Ayla, of course, but they seem contrived. And the book is extremely repetitious; every time Ayla is introduced (which, given the travel theme, is very, very often) her entire list of names and affiliations is given as if we have never read them before; as is the fact that she has an accent. We read about every person’s reaction to the horses and to Wolf. While it’s valid that people would have never seen tame animals before, we don’t need to know about every single reaction. Nor about every time Ayla brews up tea. It’s a huge book and I feel would have benefited from some serious editing. It is almost like Auel felt she needed to finish the series but didn’t really have it in her. It’s a sad ending for the Earth’s Children series.

Back in 1980, ‘The Clan of the Cave Bear’ was published; it spawned a genre of prehistoric novels, none of which ever grabbed me the way that book did. Jean Auel not only put an <hl> incredible amount of research into her books <hl>, but her heroine, Alya, was one of the most engaging protagonists I’ve ever ‘met’. I followed the series as this Cro-Magnon superwoman survived being orphaned at age five and then being raised by a band of Neanderthals, learned to hunt, tamed animals, learned herbal healing, and so much more. Auel showed, in an entertaining way, how various things could have been learned and invented. I read that book at a time when I was going through a back to the land phase, and Ayla’s adventures resonated with me.I waited eagerly for each new volume. Sadly, the quality dropped as the series went on; the books started to drag. Still, I could not give up on the series, even though I didn’t get to reading ‘Land of the Painted Caves’ until it had been out for two years. I kind of wish I hadn’t read it at all.There is little in the way of plot; Ayla and the First (the spiritual leader of the caves and her mentor) make a journey to visit all the caves with paintings in the area. There are some personal issues for Ayla, of course, but they seem contrived. And the book is extremely repetitious; every time Ayla is introduced (which, given the travel theme, is very, very often) her entire list of names and affiliations is given as if we have never read them before; as is the fact that she has an accent. We read about every person’s reaction to the horses and to Wolf. While it’s valid that people would have never seen tame animals before, we don’t need to know about every single reaction. Nor about every time Ayla brews up tea. It’s a huge book and I feel would have benefited from some serious editing.It is almost like Auel felt she needed to finish the series but didn’t really have it in her. It’s a sad ending for the Earth’s Children series.

Jean Auel not only put an <hl> incredible amount of research into her books <hl> , but her heroine, Alya, was one of the most engaging protagonists I’ve ever ‘met’.


Question: How is it one?

I liked the first book, then the second was ok, and this one was not that great. I read it to finish off the series but didnt love it.

Answer: this one was not that great

<hl> I liked the first book, then the second was ok, and this one was not that great . <hl> I read it to finish off the series but didnt love it.

I liked the first book, then the second was ok, and <hl> this one was not that great <hl>. I read it to finish off the series but didnt love it.

I liked the first book, then the second was ok, and <hl> this one was not that great <hl> .


Question: What do you think about odd thomas book one?

This story was AWESOME!!!!!! I couldn't put it down. I knew from the beginning the pretend wouldn't last. I just love the way they adore each other. PERFECT in every way.

Answer: This story was AWESOME!!!!!! I couldn't put it down. I knew from the beginning the pretend wouldn't last. I just love the way they adore each other. PERFECT in every way

<hl> This story was AWESOME!!!!!! I couldn't put it down. I knew from the beginning the pretend wouldn't last. I just love the way they adore each other. PERFECT in every way . <hl>

<hl> This story was AWESOME!!!!!! I couldn't put it down. I knew from the beginning the pretend wouldn't last. I just love the way they adore each other. PERFECT in every way <hl>.

<hl> This story was AWESOME!!!!!! I couldn't put it down. I knew from the beginning the pretend wouldn't last. I just love the way they adore each other. PERFECT in every way <hl> .


Question: Is the end of this book satisfactory?

The book was slow in the beginning but picked up once she went on her trip.  I've read all the "Twilight" books and it is not like them.

Answer: books and it is not like them

The book was slow in the beginning but picked up once she went on her trip. <hl> I've read all the "Twilight" books and it is not like them . <hl>

The book was slow in the beginning but picked up once she went on her trip. I've read all the "Twilight" <hl> books and it is not like them <hl>.

I've read all the "Twilight" <hl> books and it is not like them <hl> .


Question: How is story?

Unbroken is a book to be read, and reread and discussed over and over again.Hillenbrand's extremely well researched and massively detailed book tells the story of Louie Zamperini. A man with an interesting personality to begin with, Louie survived ordeals that would have finished most people off.  When it looks like tan incident is the worst thing that could happen to him there is a moment of....But wait!  That wasn't the worst of it and the story is off telling another terrible event.An Olympic runner in 1936 Louie ended up in the Army Air corp as a bombardier over the Pacific during WWII.  When their plane crashed he and 2 other men were in a raft for more than a month.  On land at last Louie was captured by the Japanese and held in work camps for the duration of the war.  Louie's "bring it on" attitude caused his jailers to hate him even more and his punishment was unbelievable.After being freed Louie faced demons for many years until a chance encounter with Billy Graham helped him turn his life around.I found this book to be compelling, endlessly interesting, and fascinating.  I could not stop turning the pages, wanting to see what could possibly happen to Louie next. Everything about the story was interesting and educational while still being extremely readable.  I learned about flying a B24, and details of WWII that I had not learned before.  I read details of the treatment of POWs that I had not known before.I must  ponder  why  Louie survived when so many others didn't.  What part of his upbringing and genetic makeup made him so resilient that he was able to withstand the punishment, thirst, starvation and deprivation that he did?Hillenbrand gives quite a bit of thought to this subject of why the Japanese treated the POWs so badly.  There are many reasons to be considered.  It has been obvious in years past that people put in power over others can become overwhelmed with the desire to prove themselves to their prisoners, turning into monsters that they themselves could hardly recognize.  Something about the Japanese personality made these men fail to understand why the westerners behaved so differently from the Japanese.  In many ways the Japanese were simply following orders and were afraid not to do what they were told.This would be an excellent book for students of history to read, and for reading groups to discuss.

Answer: Everything about the story was interesting and educational

Unbroken is a book to be read, and reread and discussed over and over again. Hillenbrand's extremely well researched and massively detailed book tells the story of Louie Zamperini. A man with an interesting personality to begin with, Louie survived ordeals that would have finished most people off. When it looks like tan incident is the worst thing that could happen to him there is a moment of.... But wait! That wasn't the worst of it and the story is off telling another terrible event. An Olympic runner in 1936 Louie ended up in the Army Air corp as a bombardier over the Pacific during WWII. When their plane crashed he and 2 other men were in a raft for more than a month. On land at last Louie was captured by the Japanese and held in work camps for the duration of the war. Louie's "bring it on" attitude caused his jailers to hate him even more and his punishment was unbelievable. After being freed Louie faced demons for many years until a chance encounter with Billy Graham helped him turn his life around. I found this book to be compelling, endlessly interesting, and fascinating. I could not stop turning the pages, wanting to see what could possibly happen to Louie next. <hl> Everything about the story was interesting and educational while still being extremely readable. <hl> I learned about flying a B24, and details of WWII that I had not learned before. I read details of the treatment of POWs that I had not known before. I must ponder why Louie survived when so many others didn't. What part of his upbringing and genetic makeup made him so resilient that he was able to withstand the punishment, thirst, starvation and deprivation that he did?Hillenbrand gives quite a bit of thought to this subject of why the Japanese treated the POWs so badly. There are many reasons to be considered. It has been obvious in years past that people put in power over others can become overwhelmed with the desire to prove themselves to their prisoners, turning into monsters that they themselves could hardly recognize. Something about the Japanese personality made these men fail to understand why the westerners behaved so differently from the Japanese. In many ways the Japanese were simply following orders and were afraid not to do what they were told. This would be an excellent book for students of history to read, and for reading groups to discuss.

Unbroken is a book to be read, and reread and discussed over and over again.Hillenbrand's extremely well researched and massively detailed book tells the story of Louie Zamperini. A man with an interesting personality to begin with, Louie survived ordeals that would have finished most people off. When it looks like tan incident is the worst thing that could happen to him there is a moment of....But wait! That wasn't the worst of it and the story is off telling another terrible event.An Olympic runner in 1936 Louie ended up in the Army Air corp as a bombardier over the Pacific during WWII. When their plane crashed he and 2 other men were in a raft for more than a month. On land at last Louie was captured by the Japanese and held in work camps for the duration of the war. Louie's "bring it on" attitude caused his jailers to hate him even more and his punishment was unbelievable.After being freed Louie faced demons for many years until a chance encounter with Billy Graham helped him turn his life around.I found this book to be compelling, endlessly interesting, and fascinating. I could not stop turning the pages, wanting to see what could possibly happen to Louie next. <hl> Everything about the story was interesting and educational <hl> while still being extremely readable. I learned about flying a B24, and details of WWII that I had not learned before. I read details of the treatment of POWs that I had not known before.I must ponder why Louie survived when so many others didn't. What part of his upbringing and genetic makeup made him so resilient that he was able to withstand the punishment, thirst, starvation and deprivation that he did?Hillenbrand gives quite a bit of thought to this subject of why the Japanese treated the POWs so badly. There are many reasons to be considered. It has been obvious in years past that people put in power over others can become overwhelmed with the desire to prove themselves to their prisoners, turning into monsters that they themselves could hardly recognize. Something about the Japanese personality made these men fail to understand why the westerners behaved so differently from the Japanese. In many ways the Japanese were simply following orders and were afraid not to do what they were told.This would be an excellent book for students of history to read, and for reading groups to discuss.


Question: How is book?

**SOME SPOILERS**I liked Twilight a lot. New Moon and Eclipse not so much, but I was looking forward to Breaking Dawn although the spoilers weren't promising. And really, what a disappointment!BD has many things I expected, such as Bella and Edward's wedding, her turning to vampire, Jacob's Imprinting, a new meeting / confrontation with the Volturi... But I couldn't enjoy them given the way the plot developed.The previous books had a different flow. BD it's very rushed, so you don't have time to recover from one shocked moment to the next. It feels really different.The story is told from two POVs - Bella's and Jacob's. This one is very interesting to see Edward and Bella's relationship from an external perspective.One thing happens that changes drastically the book: Bella's pregnancy. If you don't like or accept it, it's very difficult to enjoy BD: the pregnancy triggers a lot of behaviours and situations. I really wanted to like it, but I couldn't. It isn't consistent with the "vampires can't have children" we learn in previous books, and considering how it went, gross. Bella made a choice, was willing to sacrifice everything (her parents, her future children, her life), to be with Edward, and that was really touching - although a little disturbing, too. The baby "ruined" this feeling: it seems S. Meyer put it to have a (unnecessary) big happy sugary end.Before BD Bella was weak, passive, indecisive and too dependant of Edward. In BD, because of the baby, she is forced to mature, although I can't see her sufficiently adult to deal with it. She also becomes a vampire -strong at last!- but her power is very cheesy.Jacob also matures, something well shown in his POV. At first he continues obsessed with Bella, but he has more balanced thoughts and behaves much better than in Eclipse. What I hate is the resolution of his story, his Imprinting. Sick and creepy, one of the worst parts of the book.Edward continues much the same: unbelievably gorgeous (so tired of this...), and very protective and worried about Bella. The pregnancy hits him real bad, so bad he asks Jacob something disgusting, worse after knowing the whole Nessie thing. I know he was worried and hurting a lot, but there I lost all respect for him.At the end all the important characters have their HEA, but I wish it was done differently, in a way the message we got from the book wasn't so wrong: all is perfect with a husband and baby at 18 and don't worry about education, hobbies or life in general outside family.Even so, I recommend reading the book, perhaps because I don't like leaving series unfinished by a book, or because after all, we all have different opinions, and I'm sure some people will like it. But perhaps it would be better to borrow it from a friend or the library.

Answer: I recommend reading the book

**SOME SPOILERS**I liked Twilight a lot. New Moon and Eclipse not so much, but I was looking forward to Breaking Dawn although the spoilers weren't promising. And really, what a disappointment!BD has many things I expected, such as Bella and Edward's wedding, her turning to vampire, Jacob's Imprinting, a new meeting / confrontation with the Volturi... But I couldn't enjoy them given the way the plot developed. The previous books had a different flow. BD it's very rushed, so you don't have time to recover from one shocked moment to the next. It feels really different. The story is told from two POVs - Bella's and Jacob's. This one is very interesting to see Edward and Bella's relationship from an external perspective. One thing happens that changes drastically the book: Bella's pregnancy. If you don't like or accept it, it's very difficult to enjoy BD: the pregnancy triggers a lot of behaviours and situations. I really wanted to like it, but I couldn't. It isn't consistent with the "vampires can't have children" we learn in previous books, and considering how it went, gross. Bella made a choice, was willing to sacrifice everything (her parents, her future children, her life), to be with Edward, and that was really touching - although a little disturbing, too. The baby "ruined" this feeling: it seems S. Meyer put it to have a (unnecessary) big happy sugary end. Before BD Bella was weak, passive, indecisive and too dependant of Edward. In BD, because of the baby, she is forced to mature, although I can't see her sufficiently adult to deal with it. She also becomes a vampire -strong at last!- but her power is very cheesy. Jacob also matures, something well shown in his POV. At first he continues obsessed with Bella, but he has more balanced thoughts and behaves much better than in Eclipse. What I hate is the resolution of his story, his Imprinting. Sick and creepy, one of the worst parts of the book. Edward continues much the same: unbelievably gorgeous (so tired of this...), and very protective and worried about Bella. The pregnancy hits him real bad, so bad he asks Jacob something disgusting, worse after knowing the whole Nessie thing. I know he was worried and hurting a lot, but there I lost all respect for him. At the end all the important characters have their HEA, but I wish it was done differently, in a way the message we got from the book wasn't so wrong: all is perfect with a husband and baby at 18 and don't worry about education, hobbies or life in general outside family. <hl> Even so, I recommend reading the book , perhaps because I don't like leaving series unfinished by a book, or because after all, we all have different opinions, and I'm sure some people will like it. <hl> But perhaps it would be better to borrow it from a friend or the library.

**SOME SPOILERS**I liked Twilight a lot. New Moon and Eclipse not so much, but I was looking forward to Breaking Dawn although the spoilers weren't promising. And really, what a disappointment!BD has many things I expected, such as Bella and Edward's wedding, her turning to vampire, Jacob's Imprinting, a new meeting / confrontation with the Volturi... But I couldn't enjoy them given the way the plot developed.The previous books had a different flow. BD it's very rushed, so you don't have time to recover from one shocked moment to the next. It feels really different.The story is told from two POVs - Bella's and Jacob's. This one is very interesting to see Edward and Bella's relationship from an external perspective.One thing happens that changes drastically the book: Bella's pregnancy. If you don't like or accept it, it's very difficult to enjoy BD: the pregnancy triggers a lot of behaviours and situations. I really wanted to like it, but I couldn't. It isn't consistent with the "vampires can't have children" we learn in previous books, and considering how it went, gross. Bella made a choice, was willing to sacrifice everything (her parents, her future children, her life), to be with Edward, and that was really touching - although a little disturbing, too. The baby "ruined" this feeling: it seems S. Meyer put it to have a (unnecessary) big happy sugary end.Before BD Bella was weak, passive, indecisive and too dependant of Edward. In BD, because of the baby, she is forced to mature, although I can't see her sufficiently adult to deal with it. She also becomes a vampire -strong at last!- but her power is very cheesy.Jacob also matures, something well shown in his POV. At first he continues obsessed with Bella, but he has more balanced thoughts and behaves much better than in Eclipse. What I hate is the resolution of his story, his Imprinting. Sick and creepy, one of the worst parts of the book.Edward continues much the same: unbelievably gorgeous (so tired of this...), and very protective and worried about Bella. The pregnancy hits him real bad, so bad he asks Jacob something disgusting, worse after knowing the whole Nessie thing. I know he was worried and hurting a lot, but there I lost all respect for him.At the end all the important characters have their HEA, but I wish it was done differently, in a way the message we got from the book wasn't so wrong: all is perfect with a husband and baby at 18 and don't worry about education, hobbies or life in general outside family.Even so, <hl> I recommend reading the book <hl>, perhaps because I don't like leaving series unfinished by a book, or because after all, we all have different opinions, and I'm sure some people will like it. But perhaps it would be better to borrow it from a friend or the library.

Even so, <hl> I recommend reading the book <hl> , perhaps because I don't like leaving series unfinished by a book, or because after all, we all have different opinions, and I'm sure some people will like it.


Question: How is it the story?

The author who's just been through a messay divorce, embarks on her spiritual, international journey in search of...she's not sure. She just knows she wants to move, to be somewhere else.I had heard that the book was inspiring, which was true. I was unprepared for the fact it was also pretty funny. The author is able to turn a phrase, and I'd put her among the ranks of the funniest female writers, almost approaching Nora Rphron or a Fran Lebowitz.I do feel the criticisms that the author comes across as self serving are true. I wish the author had turned less of the focus on herself. Nevertheless, if you enjoy free form essay writing, basically a forgotten art, check this book out.Another excellent book of humorous essays is Race You To The Fountain of Youth, which had me rolling on the floor.Race You to the Fountain of Youth: I'm Not Dead Yet (But parts of me are going fast)"Eat, Pray, Love" is truly an interesting collection of essays and was fresh and different.

Answer: the criticisms that the author comes across as self serving are true

The author who's just been through a messay divorce, embarks on her spiritual, international journey in search of...she's not sure. She just knows she wants to move, to be somewhere else. I had heard that the book was inspiring, which was true. I was unprepared for the fact it was also pretty funny. The author is able to turn a phrase, and I'd put her among the ranks of the funniest female writers, almost approaching Nora Rphron or a Fran Lebowitz. <hl> I do feel the criticisms that the author comes across as self serving are true . <hl> I wish the author had turned less of the focus on herself. Nevertheless, if you enjoy free form essay writing, basically a forgotten art, check this book out. Another excellent book of humorous essays is Race You To The Fountain of Youth, which had me rolling on the floor. Race You to the Fountain of Youth: I'm Not Dead Yet (But parts of me are going fast)"Eat, Pray, Love" is truly an interesting collection of essays and was fresh and different.

The author who's just been through a messay divorce, embarks on her spiritual, international journey in search of...she's not sure. She just knows she wants to move, to be somewhere else.I had heard that the book was inspiring, which was true. I was unprepared for the fact it was also pretty funny. The author is able to turn a phrase, and I'd put her among the ranks of the funniest female writers, almost approaching Nora Rphron or a Fran Lebowitz.I do feel <hl> the criticisms that the author comes across as self serving are true <hl>. I wish the author had turned less of the focus on herself. Nevertheless, if you enjoy free form essay writing, basically a forgotten art, check this book out.Another excellent book of humorous essays is Race You To The Fountain of Youth, which had me rolling on the floor.Race You to the Fountain of Youth: I'm Not Dead Yet (But parts of me are going fast)"Eat, Pray, Love" is truly an interesting collection of essays and was fresh and different.

I do feel <hl> the criticisms that the author comes across as self serving are true <hl> .


Question: How many pages does the book have?

Humanity is almost obsolete on earth.  The human body now serves as a "host" to unseen invaders from another life form.  These invaders plan to take over and make the earth a more civilized place, and it won't be tainted by things like war, sexual perversity, hatred and other human complexities.  "Wanderer" invades the body of Melanie Stryder.  It should be simple enough.  At first, the Wanderer will experience some withdrawal, where the former soul refuses to succumb and the invader experiences thoughts and memories that are not her own.  But as Wanderer goes on with her life and career, she realizes that Melanie lives within her, tormenting her thoughts.  The reason to the host's refusal to move on dawns on Wanderer: Melanie is looking out for two humans, one of whom is the love of her life.  Things reach a head, and Wanderer can no longer distinguish between her thoughts and Melanie's, and soon their feelings for Jared are in synch as well.  How will it all unfold?Stephenie Meyer once said that she was a better storyteller than she was a writer.  I think I get what she means after reading this book.  I bought this a year ago, began to read it, then put it down after about one hundred pages.  Now I dust it off, open it to the dog-eared page, and carry on reading it.  I didn't have to reread the first hundred pages, for it was not difficult to pick it up where I'd left it off.  The first two hundred or so pages are extremely dull.  It is nothing more than a series of flashbacks and Wanderer having an internal dialogue with Melanie.  Things pick up after this rather tedious beginning.  However, things drag on and on to a point where I almost throw the book to the nearest wall in more than one occasion.  This book should have been at least two hundred pages shorter.  The redundancy is extremely exhausting.  Science fiction has never been my favorite genre.  I cannot imagine green-colored men and aliens with six or seven eyes that are found in those books.  (I do like paranormal fantasy though, which is why I enjoyed Meyer's Twilight series better.)  However, this one is entertaining and at times compelling.  If only it had been better written and edited.  But oh well.  I needed to know why this book was so popular (still in hardback and an NYT bestseller after over one year), and so that's out of the way.  Read it if you must.

Answer: The first two hundred or so

Humanity is almost obsolete on earth. The human body now serves as a "host" to unseen invaders from another life form. These invaders plan to take over and make the earth a more civilized place, and it won't be tainted by things like war, sexual perversity, hatred and other human complexities. "Wanderer" invades the body of Melanie Stryder. It should be simple enough. At first, the Wanderer will experience some withdrawal, where the former soul refuses to succumb and the invader experiences thoughts and memories that are not her own. But as Wanderer goes on with her life and career, she realizes that Melanie lives within her, tormenting her thoughts. The reason to the host's refusal to move on dawns on Wanderer: Melanie is looking out for two humans, one of whom is the love of her life. Things reach a head, and Wanderer can no longer distinguish between her thoughts and Melanie's, and soon their feelings for Jared are in synch as well. How will it all unfold?Stephenie Meyer once said that she was a better storyteller than she was a writer. I think I get what she means after reading this book. I bought this a year ago, began to read it, then put it down after about one hundred pages. Now I dust it off, open it to the dog-eared page, and carry on reading it. I didn't have to reread the first hundred pages, for it was not difficult to pick it up where I'd left it off. <hl> The first two hundred or so pages are extremely dull. <hl> It is nothing more than a series of flashbacks and Wanderer having an internal dialogue with Melanie. Things pick up after this rather tedious beginning. However, things drag on and on to a point where I almost throw the book to the nearest wall in more than one occasion. This book should have been at least two hundred pages shorter. The redundancy is extremely exhausting. Science fiction has never been my favorite genre. I cannot imagine green-colored men and aliens with six or seven eyes that are found in those books. (I do like paranormal fantasy though, which is why I enjoyed Meyer's Twilight series better.) However, this one is entertaining and at times compelling. If only it had been better written and edited. But oh well. I needed to know why this book was so popular (still in hardback and an NYT bestseller after over one year), and so that's out of the way. Read it if you must.

Humanity is almost obsolete on earth. The human body now serves as a "host" to unseen invaders from another life form. These invaders plan to take over and make the earth a more civilized place, and it won't be tainted by things like war, sexual perversity, hatred and other human complexities. "Wanderer" invades the body of Melanie Stryder. It should be simple enough. At first, the Wanderer will experience some withdrawal, where the former soul refuses to succumb and the invader experiences thoughts and memories that are not her own. But as Wanderer goes on with her life and career, she realizes that Melanie lives within her, tormenting her thoughts. The reason to the host's refusal to move on dawns on Wanderer: Melanie is looking out for two humans, one of whom is the love of her life. Things reach a head, and Wanderer can no longer distinguish between her thoughts and Melanie's, and soon their feelings for Jared are in synch as well. How will it all unfold?Stephenie Meyer once said that she was a better storyteller than she was a writer. I think I get what she means after reading this book. I bought this a year ago, began to read it, then put it down after about one hundred pages. Now I dust it off, open it to the dog-eared page, and carry on reading it. I didn't have to reread the first hundred pages, for it was not difficult to pick it up where I'd left it off. <hl> The first two hundred or so <hl> pages are extremely dull. It is nothing more than a series of flashbacks and Wanderer having an internal dialogue with Melanie. Things pick up after this rather tedious beginning. However, things drag on and on to a point where I almost throw the book to the nearest wall in more than one occasion. This book should have been at least two hundred pages shorter. The redundancy is extremely exhausting. Science fiction has never been my favorite genre. I cannot imagine green-colored men and aliens with six or seven eyes that are found in those books. (I do like paranormal fantasy though, which is why I enjoyed Meyer's Twilight series better.) However, this one is entertaining and at times compelling. If only it had been better written and edited. But oh well. I needed to know why this book was so popular (still in hardback and an NYT bestseller after over one year), and so that's out of the way. Read it if you must.


Question: How is the book?

This is a very good book. It's a fast read, despite its mammoth size. Granted, it's no "It" by Stephen King, but it's a pretty big book at a whopping 498 pages. I think this book could have been a lot better if it had been about a hundred pages less. Here's my simple breakdown:PROS:The book reads fast, so each chapter seems to fly by. The relationships between the characters are real, the dialogue feels real, even the love seems real. Realism keeps a reader glued to the book & this book - despite its obvious vampire plot - is very realistic. It's also very well written. Stephanie Meyer doesn't say in ten sentences what she can say in five, and she doesn't say in five what she can say in one. She's succinct and an incredible writer. Most of the time. This makes for a quick and satisfying read, with all Bella & Edward's high highs and low lows feeling familiar and plausible.CONS:Too much repetition. In attempt to posit the awkward, clumsy, and so-not-a-supermodel Bella against the suave, uber-hunk vampire Edward, Stephanie Meyer goes too far. My head started to swim after awhile with all the repetition. It's like this: Bella sees Edward; he's so handsome and suave and she's such an awkward clutz! Things are awkward. Then Bella goes home & things with her dad are awkward. Then she goes to school, where, you guessed it, things are awkward. There's also too much focus on Edward's good looks. I found it to be clunky and expositional. Edward speaks from ruby red lips and his muscled arms and his chiseled chest, etc. etc. We get it: she's average at best and he's just the bee's knees. We get it.Also (and this didn't bother me too much but I feel I have to include it in the "cons" section), I thought that for a downtrodden, sullen, loner with low self-esteem Bella acted awfully rude and arrogant to the kids at her school who were only trying to be nice and befriend her. You can't get mad that you have no friends and no one understands you when you detach from everyone and isolate from those who want to be your friend and understand you. Don't get me wrong; I was in high school ten years ago. I remember what it's like to fall in love and be annoyed by everyone else's seemingly insignificant drama. And granted, once your life is at stake by hungry vampires prom dresses seem a little less important. But I'm from the school of thought that you get friends by being a friend. That doesn't always work, but it's better than the alternative. Bella is a likeable character. She's smart and loyal and for the most part, nice. But I found her, at times, to be just a little too self-absorbed, and just a little too holier-than-thou around her fellow Forks friends.I think the book could've been a lot better and a lot shorter if the Bella-awkward, Edward-gorgeous stuff was kept to a minimum. It almost seemed like Ms. Meyer was overexplaining everything to an audience she thought may be too young (or too stupid?) to get it on the first try. Perhaps these books are targeted toward a teen audience and maybe at 28 I'm not a good reviewer. I don't know. I'll leave that up to you. This is just my opinion. Overall, the book was good. I'd even go so far as to say that it was great. Now, it's on to New Moon.

Answer: This is a very good book

This is a very good book .

<hl> This is a very good book . <hl> It's a fast read, despite its mammoth size. Granted, it's no "It" by Stephen King, but it's a pretty big book at a whopping 498 pages. I think this book could have been a lot better if it had been about a hundred pages less. Here's my simple breakdown:PROS: The book reads fast, so each chapter seems to fly by. The relationships between the characters are real, the dialogue feels real, even the love seems real. Realism keeps a reader glued to the book & this book - despite its obvious vampire plot - is very realistic. It's also very well written. Stephanie Meyer doesn't say in ten sentences what she can say in five, and she doesn't say in five what she can say in one. She's succinct and an incredible writer. Most of the time. This makes for a quick and satisfying read, with all Bella & Edward's high highs and low lows feeling familiar and plausible. CONS:Too much repetition. In attempt to posit the awkward, clumsy, and so-not-a-supermodel Bella against the suave, uber-hunk vampire Edward, Stephanie Meyer goes too far. My head started to swim after awhile with all the repetition. It's like this: Bella sees Edward; he's so handsome and suave and she's such an awkward clutz! Things are awkward. Then Bella goes home & things with her dad are awkward. Then she goes to school, where, you guessed it, things are awkward. There's also too much focus on Edward's good looks. I found it to be clunky and expositional. Edward speaks from ruby red lips and his muscled arms and his chiseled chest, etc. etc. We get it: she's average at best and he's just the bee's knees. We get it. Also (and this didn't bother me too much but I feel I have to include it in the "cons" section), I thought that for a downtrodden, sullen, loner with low self-esteem Bella acted awfully rude and arrogant to the kids at her school who were only trying to be nice and befriend her. You can't get mad that you have no friends and no one understands you when you detach from everyone and isolate from those who want to be your friend and understand you. Don't get me wrong; I was in high school ten years ago. I remember what it's like to fall in love and be annoyed by everyone else's seemingly insignificant drama. And granted, once your life is at stake by hungry vampires prom dresses seem a little less important. But I'm from the school of thought that you get friends by being a friend. That doesn't always work, but it's better than the alternative. Bella is a likeable character. She's smart and loyal and for the most part, nice. But I found her, at times, to be just a little too self-absorbed, and just a little too holier-than-thou around her fellow Forks friends. I think the book could've been a lot better and a lot shorter if the Bella-awkward, Edward-gorgeous stuff was kept to a minimum. It almost seemed like Ms. Meyer was overexplaining everything to an audience she thought may be too young (or too stupid?) to get it on the first try. Perhaps these books are targeted toward a teen audience and maybe at 28 I'm not a good reviewer. I don't know. I'll leave that up to you. This is just my opinion. Overall, the book was good. I'd even go so far as to say that it was great. Now, it's on to New Moon.

<hl> This is a very good book <hl>. It's a fast read, despite its mammoth size. Granted, it's no "It" by Stephen King, but it's a pretty big book at a whopping 498 pages. I think this book could have been a lot better if it had been about a hundred pages less. Here's my simple breakdown:PROS:The book reads fast, so each chapter seems to fly by. The relationships between the characters are real, the dialogue feels real, even the love seems real. Realism keeps a reader glued to the book & this book - despite its obvious vampire plot - is very realistic. It's also very well written. Stephanie Meyer doesn't say in ten sentences what she can say in five, and she doesn't say in five what she can say in one. She's succinct and an incredible writer. Most of the time. This makes for a quick and satisfying read, with all Bella & Edward's high highs and low lows feeling familiar and plausible.CONS:Too much repetition. In attempt to posit the awkward, clumsy, and so-not-a-supermodel Bella against the suave, uber-hunk vampire Edward, Stephanie Meyer goes too far. My head started to swim after awhile with all the repetition. It's like this: Bella sees Edward; he's so handsome and suave and she's such an awkward clutz! Things are awkward. Then Bella goes home & things with her dad are awkward. Then she goes to school, where, you guessed it, things are awkward. There's also too much focus on Edward's good looks. I found it to be clunky and expositional. Edward speaks from ruby red lips and his muscled arms and his chiseled chest, etc. etc. We get it: she's average at best and he's just the bee's knees. We get it.Also (and this didn't bother me too much but I feel I have to include it in the "cons" section), I thought that for a downtrodden, sullen, loner with low self-esteem Bella acted awfully rude and arrogant to the kids at her school who were only trying to be nice and befriend her. You can't get mad that you have no friends and no one understands you when you detach from everyone and isolate from those who want to be your friend and understand you. Don't get me wrong; I was in high school ten years ago. I remember what it's like to fall in love and be annoyed by everyone else's seemingly insignificant drama. And granted, once your life is at stake by hungry vampires prom dresses seem a little less important. But I'm from the school of thought that you get friends by being a friend. That doesn't always work, but it's better than the alternative. Bella is a likeable character. She's smart and loyal and for the most part, nice. But I found her, at times, to be just a little too self-absorbed, and just a little too holier-than-thou around her fellow Forks friends.I think the book could've been a lot better and a lot shorter if the Bella-awkward, Edward-gorgeous stuff was kept to a minimum. It almost seemed like Ms. Meyer was overexplaining everything to an audience she thought may be too young (or too stupid?) to get it on the first try. Perhaps these books are targeted toward a teen audience and maybe at 28 I'm not a good reviewer. I don't know. I'll leave that up to you. This is just my opinion. Overall, the book was good. I'd even go so far as to say that it was great. Now, it's on to New Moon.


Question: How is write?

For some reason I really liked this book. Wool is about a future, hundreds of years from now where all of humanity lives underground in a bunker of sorts with just a few thousand people due to the surface of the planet being uninhabitable. Even though really very little happened, the author was able to create a sufficient mystery that I had to finish it to see how it played out. It is also an interesting idea about how mankind might survive, even if the planet is dead.

Answer: Wool is about a future

For some reason I really liked this book. <hl> Wool is about a future , hundreds of years from now where all of humanity lives underground in a bunker of sorts with just a few thousand people due to the surface of the planet being uninhabitable. <hl> Even though really very little happened, the author was able to create a sufficient mystery that I had to finish it to see how it played out. It is also an interesting idea about how mankind might survive, even if the planet is dead.

For some reason I really liked this book. <hl> Wool is about a future <hl>, hundreds of years from now where all of humanity lives underground in a bunker of sorts with just a few thousand people due to the surface of the planet being uninhabitable. Even though really very little happened, the author was able to create a sufficient mystery that I had to finish it to see how it played out. It is also an interesting idea about how mankind might survive, even if the planet is dead.

<hl> Wool is about a future <hl> , hundreds of years from now where all of humanity lives underground in a bunker of sorts with just a few thousand people due to the surface of the planet being uninhabitable.


Question: How was the book like?

As a South Asian-American I thought this book was authentic, one of the truest books I've ever read. The passages that get a bit longish for some readers seemed eerily like my own life--descriptions of things found in bedrooms, of Bengali-American parties, of people's coping strategies of being first- or second-generation American. I found that I could relate to at least two of the characters, and knew a lot of the types of the other characters from people in my own life. I wish I'd written this book.I give a lot of credit to Lahiri for producing a work that is so emotionally authentic, universal, and resonant, while solving the problem of the guilt sometimes passed around in a family. Lahiri does so without putting any of the blame for anybody's existential or cultural unhappiness on any one character. Everybody is likeable and their situations and impulses are understandable. Ashoke and Ashima are not to blame for Gogol's name, since he picks it himself in a way and he has a problem with being distanced from it. Ashoke is not to blame for Ashima's estrangement from her family and country, because they were living poor in Calcutta and Ashima didn't find a better suitor. Just like in real life, there's often no better option in a situation, just a choice someone made a long time ago with the given inputs. No one is a villain, she just tells it like it is.Also, Lahiri wrote a book about some pretty nice people that are accepting and turn out to be good for each other in the end. If I were writing the book I'd have a lot less of this because sometimes things don't always get patched up, but I'm glad Lahiri does it differently, since with bad Bengali neighbors or children who marry outside the group and cut off ties with their family or what have you, the novel would collapse under its own weight, since there's already death and estrangement to deal with.The Mira Nair movie was also right-on.

Answer: one of the truest books I've ever read. The passages that get a bit longish for some readers seemed eerily like my own life--descriptions of things found in bedrooms, of Bengali-American parties, of people's coping strategies of being first- or second-generation American. I found that I could relate to at least two of the characters, and knew a lot of the types of the other characters from people in my own life. I wish I'd written this book.I give a lot of credit to Lahiri for producing a work that is so emotionally authentic, universal, and resonant, while solving the problem of the guilt sometimes passed around in a family. Lahiri does so without putting any of the blame for anybody's existential or cultural unhappiness on any one character. Everybody is likeable and their situations and impulses are understandable. Ashoke and Ashima are not to blame for Gogol's name, since he picks it himself in a way and he has a problem with being distanced from it. Ashoke is not to blame for Ashima's estrangement from her family and country, because they were living poor in Calcutta and Ashima didn't find a better suitor. Just like in real life, there's often no better option in a situation, just a choice someone made a long time ago with the given inputs. No one

<hl> As a South Asian-American I thought this book was authentic, one of the truest books I've ever read. The passages that get a bit longish for some readers seemed eerily like my own life--descriptions of things found in bedrooms, of Bengali-American parties, of people's coping strategies of being first- or second-generation American. I found that I could relate to at least two of the characters, and knew a lot of the types of the other characters from people in my own life. I wish I'd written this book.I give a lot of credit to Lahiri for producing a work that is so emotionally authentic, universal, and resonant, while solving the problem of the guilt sometimes passed around in a family. Lahiri does so without putting any of the blame for anybody's existential or cultural unhappiness on any one character. Everybody is likeable and their situations and impulses are understandable. Ashoke and Ashima are not to blame for Gogol's name, since he picks it himself in a way and he has a problem with being distanced from it. Ashoke is not to blame for Ashima's estrangement from her family and country, because they were living poor in Calcutta and Ashima didn't find a better suitor. Just like in real life, there's often no better option in a situation, just a choice someone made a long time ago with the given inputs. No one is a villain, she just tells it like it is. <hl> Also, Lahiri wrote a book about some pretty nice people that are accepting and turn out to be good for each other in the end. If I were writing the book I'd have a lot less of this because sometimes things don't always get patched up, but I'm glad Lahiri does it differently, since with bad Bengali neighbors or children who marry outside the group and cut off ties with their family or what have you, the novel would collapse under its own weight, since there's already death and estrangement to deal with. The Mira Nair movie was also right-on.

As a South Asian-American I thought this book was authentic, <hl> one of the truest books I've ever read. The passages that get a bit longish for some readers seemed eerily like my own life--descriptions of things found in bedrooms, of Bengali-American parties, of people's coping strategies of being first- or second-generation American. I found that I could relate to at least two of the characters, and knew a lot of the types of the other characters from people in my own life. I wish I'd written this book.I give a lot of credit to Lahiri for producing a work that is so emotionally authentic, universal, and resonant, while solving the problem of the guilt sometimes passed around in a family. Lahiri does so without putting any of the blame for anybody's existential or cultural unhappiness on any one character. Everybody is likeable and their situations and impulses are understandable. Ashoke and Ashima are not to blame for Gogol's name, since he picks it himself in a way and he has a problem with being distanced from it. Ashoke is not to blame for Ashima's estrangement from her family and country, because they were living poor in Calcutta and Ashima didn't find a better suitor. Just like in real life, there's often no better option in a situation, just a choice someone made a long time ago with the given inputs. No one <hl> is a villain, she just tells it like it is.Also, Lahiri wrote a book about some pretty nice people that are accepting and turn out to be good for each other in the end. If I were writing the book I'd have a lot less of this because sometimes things don't always get patched up, but I'm glad Lahiri does it differently, since with bad Bengali neighbors or children who marry outside the group and cut off ties with their family or what have you, the novel would collapse under its own weight, since there's already death and estrangement to deal with.The Mira Nair movie was also right-on.


Question: How is the mystery?

I first became aware of this series when I won an autographed copy of the first Infinity Ring book (WooHoo), which was written by James Dashner. Then, once I heard that The Maze Runner was to hit the big screen I was reminded that it was floundering somewhere in my to-read list. So, finally after much delay I brought it.When I first started reading it I was reminded of a book from my school days, Lord of the Flies. I was a tad concerned that it was going to be along the same lines because it was ’required reading’ at school rather than ’my choice’, I wasn’t really keen on the thought (even though I can’t really remember the specifics of LOTF).But, I’m pleased to say that after the first few chapters I became captivated by the story and its characters. Thomas is our main guy, he’s sort of been mysteriously embedded into a settlement (The Glade) populated by other boys his own age. He has no memory of who he is or where he came, which he soon finds is common for all ’greenies’ that arrive in the Glade.The Glade is a sanctuary of sorts, which is at the centre of a huge maze that changes its shape every day. We follow Thomas as he works through the many struggles of adapting to his new life and learns about the ways of the Glade. He finds that every kid has a role, and every role is just as important as the next. Life in the Glade can be quite tough, but the Gladers have created a society that has rules and runs well.Every day, a team of Runners enter the maze to try to find a way back to the real world. But, the maze is full of hidden dangers and all runners must return to the Glade before the huge doors close at the end of each day. Anyone unlucky enough to be trapped in the maze overnight is in big trouble.Soon, the arrival of another mysterious ’greenie’ sets the wheels in motion for Thomas and the other Gladers to go for broke, and try and find the answers they all long for. Who are they? Where are they from? How do they escape? Who can they trust?There’ll be no more details on the plot from me. I’ll just say that this is an exciting book, so I suggest that you grab a copy and read it for yourself.My bottom line: This book has great mystery, action, and likable characters. I can honestly say that this is a series that I’m keen to keep reading. I’m looking forward to getting into the next book …. and the movie too.PS: I’d put this book and movie in the YA category rather than MG.Note: I don’t claim to be a pro-reviewer, I am a reader. My reviews are based on my personal thoughts around the story that the book is trying to tell. I try to focus on the story (which is the reason I read) rather than dissect the book and pass comment on typos, writing style or structure.

Answer: mysteriously embedded into a settlement (The Glade) populated by other boys his own age

I first became aware of this series when I won an autographed copy of the first Infinity Ring book (WooHoo), which was written by James Dashner. Then, once I heard that The Maze Runner was to hit the big screen I was reminded that it was floundering somewhere in my to-read list. So, finally after much delay I brought it. When I first started reading it I was reminded of a book from my school days, Lord of the Flies. I was a tad concerned that it was going to be along the same lines because it was ’required reading’ at school rather than ’my choice’, I wasn’t really keen on the thought (even though I can’t really remember the specifics of LOTF).But, I’m pleased to say that after the first few chapters I became captivated by the story and its characters. <hl> Thomas is our main guy, he’s sort of been mysteriously embedded into a settlement (The Glade) populated by other boys his own age . <hl> He has no memory of who he is or where he came, which he soon finds is common for all ’greenies’ that arrive in the Glade. The Glade is a sanctuary of sorts, which is at the centre of a huge maze that changes its shape every day. We follow Thomas as he works through the many struggles of adapting to his new life and learns about the ways of the Glade. He finds that every kid has a role, and every role is just as important as the next. Life in the Glade can be quite tough, but the Gladers have created a society that has rules and runs well. Every day, a team of Runners enter the maze to try to find a way back to the real world. But, the maze is full of hidden dangers and all runners must return to the Glade before the huge doors close at the end of each day. Anyone unlucky enough to be trapped in the maze overnight is in big trouble. Soon, the arrival of another mysterious ’greenie’ sets the wheels in motion for Thomas and the other Gladers to go for broke, and try and find the answers they all long for. Who are they? Where are they from? How do they escape? Who can they trust?There’ll be no more details on the plot from me. I’ll just say that this is an exciting book, so I suggest that you grab a copy and read it for yourself. My bottom line: This book has great mystery, action, and likable characters. I can honestly say that this is a series that I’m keen to keep reading. I’m looking forward to getting into the next book …. and the movie too. PS: I’d put this book and movie in the YA category rather than MG.Note: I don’t claim to be a pro-reviewer, I am a reader. My reviews are based on my personal thoughts around the story that the book is trying to tell. I try to focus on the story (which is the reason I read) rather than dissect the book and pass comment on typos, writing style or structure.

I first became aware of this series when I won an autographed copy of the first Infinity Ring book (WooHoo), which was written by James Dashner. Then, once I heard that The Maze Runner was to hit the big screen I was reminded that it was floundering somewhere in my to-read list. So, finally after much delay I brought it.When I first started reading it I was reminded of a book from my school days, Lord of the Flies. I was a tad concerned that it was going to be along the same lines because it was ’required reading’ at school rather than ’my choice’, I wasn’t really keen on the thought (even though I can’t really remember the specifics of LOTF).But, I’m pleased to say that after the first few chapters I became captivated by the story and its characters. Thomas is our main guy, he’s sort of been <hl> mysteriously embedded into a settlement (The Glade) populated by other boys his own age <hl>. He has no memory of who he is or where he came, which he soon finds is common for all ’greenies’ that arrive in the Glade.The Glade is a sanctuary of sorts, which is at the centre of a huge maze that changes its shape every day. We follow Thomas as he works through the many struggles of adapting to his new life and learns about the ways of the Glade. He finds that every kid has a role, and every role is just as important as the next. Life in the Glade can be quite tough, but the Gladers have created a society that has rules and runs well.Every day, a team of Runners enter the maze to try to find a way back to the real world. But, the maze is full of hidden dangers and all runners must return to the Glade before the huge doors close at the end of each day. Anyone unlucky enough to be trapped in the maze overnight is in big trouble.Soon, the arrival of another mysterious ’greenie’ sets the wheels in motion for Thomas and the other Gladers to go for broke, and try and find the answers they all long for. Who are they? Where are they from? How do they escape? Who can they trust?There’ll be no more details on the plot from me. I’ll just say that this is an exciting book, so I suggest that you grab a copy and read it for yourself.My bottom line: This book has great mystery, action, and likable characters. I can honestly say that this is a series that I’m keen to keep reading. I’m looking forward to getting into the next book …. and the movie too.PS: I’d put this book and movie in the YA category rather than MG.Note: I don’t claim to be a pro-reviewer, I am a reader. My reviews are based on my personal thoughts around the story that the book is trying to tell. I try to focus on the story (which is the reason I read) rather than dissect the book and pass comment on typos, writing style or structure.

Thomas is our main guy, he’s sort of been <hl> mysteriously embedded into a settlement (The Glade) populated by other boys his own age <hl> .


Question: How interesting is the back story?

3.5 StarsIn the sequel to Delirium, Lena is stronger than ever before, and ready to start loving again.Lena has spent several months in the Wilds. Months learning how to grow stronger and how to survive. And now she is ready to walk among the "Zombies" once again. On a special mission, Lena has to keep tabs on a pro-Cure group that is fighting to have the Cure required starting at a younger age. This organization is not the only thing that catches Lena's eye, she also can't seem to stay away from the founder's son, Julian.Hm. I wanted to like this book. I wanted to love this book. But....I don't. Like Delirium, there isn't a lot of action but a lot happens. Lena grows into her own person and soon she is ready to infiltrate New York under a new guise. The story is told from the past and the present until the past meets up with the present. This allows the reader to watch Lena's transformation.I was disappointed that none of the characters from Delirium were present in this book, I really wanted to see Lena's reaction to them after she discovered the true meaning of love. The characters that we are introduced to are just as strong and interesting though. We first meet the ever strong Raven who really pushes Lena to be all that she can be-and more. Their interactions were interesting and endearing; I think Raven was my favorite secondary character in this book. She is so head strong but also so vulnerable with the most heart-wrenching story.Now.....I have to address something that I wish I could ignore. Julian. He is the poster child for the pro-Cure group Lena is trying to destroy from the inside. As fate would have it, they fall in love and their relationship starts to mirror that of Alex and Lena. Now because I know and love Alex I cannot accept the possibility of another boy who can hold a light to him. Because Alex and perfect. And the story seems to hint at a future love triangle which...I could definitely do without. So that's really all I have to say. It's upsetting to write about.The writing is akin to poetry. Oliver describes everything beautifully and romantically. Lena's first person point of view helps show her progression into a strong and independent woman who is taking the role of her first love.Pandemonium is not what I was expecting but Oliver never fails to create a beautiful story. I am curious to see how this will all end.

Answer: beautiful story

a beautiful story .

3.5 StarsIn the sequel to Delirium, Lena is stronger than ever before, and ready to start loving again. Lena has spent several months in the Wilds. Months learning how to grow stronger and how to survive. And now she is ready to walk among the "Zombies" once again. On a special mission, Lena has to keep tabs on a pro-Cure group that is fighting to have the Cure required starting at a younger age. This organization is not the only thing that catches Lena's eye, she also can't seem to stay away from the founder's son, Julian. Hm. I wanted to like this book. I wanted to love this book. But....I don't. Like Delirium, there isn't a lot of action but a lot happens. Lena grows into her own person and soon she is ready to infiltrate New York under a new guise. The story is told from the past and the present until the past meets up with the present. This allows the reader to watch Lena's transformation. I was disappointed that none of the characters from Delirium were present in this book, I really wanted to see Lena's reaction to them after she discovered the true meaning of love. The characters that we are introduced to are just as strong and interesting though. We first meet the ever strong Raven who really pushes Lena to be all that she can be-and more. Their interactions were interesting and endearing; I think Raven was my favorite secondary character in this book. She is so head strong but also so vulnerable with the most heart-wrenching story. Now.....I have to address something that I wish I could ignore. Julian. He is the poster child for the pro-Cure group Lena is trying to destroy from the inside. As fate would have it, they fall in love and their relationship starts to mirror that of Alex and Lena. Now because I know and love Alex I cannot accept the possibility of another boy who can hold a light to him. Because Alex and perfect. And the story seems to hint at a future love triangle which...I could definitely do without. So that's really all I have to say. It's upsetting to write about. The writing is akin to poetry. Oliver describes everything beautifully and romantically. Lena's first person point of view helps show her progression into a strong and independent woman who is taking the role of her first love. Pandemonium is not what I was expecting but Oliver never fails to create <hl> a beautiful story . <hl> I am curious to see how this will all end.

3.5 StarsIn the sequel to Delirium, Lena is stronger than ever before, and ready to start loving again.Lena has spent several months in the Wilds. Months learning how to grow stronger and how to survive. And now she is ready to walk among the "Zombies" once again. On a special mission, Lena has to keep tabs on a pro-Cure group that is fighting to have the Cure required starting at a younger age. This organization is not the only thing that catches Lena's eye, she also can't seem to stay away from the founder's son, Julian.Hm. I wanted to like this book. I wanted to love this book. But....I don't. Like Delirium, there isn't a lot of action but a lot happens. Lena grows into her own person and soon she is ready to infiltrate New York under a new guise. The story is told from the past and the present until the past meets up with the present. This allows the reader to watch Lena's transformation.I was disappointed that none of the characters from Delirium were present in this book, I really wanted to see Lena's reaction to them after she discovered the true meaning of love. The characters that we are introduced to are just as strong and interesting though. We first meet the ever strong Raven who really pushes Lena to be all that she can be-and more. Their interactions were interesting and endearing; I think Raven was my favorite secondary character in this book. She is so head strong but also so vulnerable with the most heart-wrenching story.Now.....I have to address something that I wish I could ignore. Julian. He is the poster child for the pro-Cure group Lena is trying to destroy from the inside. As fate would have it, they fall in love and their relationship starts to mirror that of Alex and Lena. Now because I know and love Alex I cannot accept the possibility of another boy who can hold a light to him. Because Alex and perfect. And the story seems to hint at a future love triangle which...I could definitely do without. So that's really all I have to say. It's upsetting to write about.The writing is akin to poetry. Oliver describes everything beautifully and romantically. Lena's first person point of view helps show her progression into a strong and independent woman who is taking the role of her first love.Pandemonium is not what I was expecting but Oliver never fails to create a <hl> beautiful story <hl>. I am curious to see how this will all end.


Question: How is the story book?

Good price. Story wasn't bad. Male lead made you like him in the end. A number of errors in the book which were a bit annoying

Answer: A number of errors in the book which were a bit annoying

Good price. Story wasn't bad. Male lead made you like him in the end. <hl> A number of errors in the book which were a bit annoying <hl>


Question: How much of the talent of Christie is seen in her novels?

I just finished reading Wool Omnibus by Hugh Howey.  The story is well written and engaging.  The characters were well drawn and I liked getting to know them.  As I became involved in the story, I felt the emotions of the characters and walked with them into elation, fear, despair and joy.  This is one of the best books I have read for quite a while.

Answer: The story is well written and engaging

I just finished reading Wool Omnibus by Hugh Howey. <hl> The story is well written and engaging . <hl> The characters were well drawn and I liked getting to know them. As I became involved in the story, I felt the emotions of the characters and walked with them into elation, fear, despair and joy. This is one of the best books I have read for quite a while.

I just finished reading Wool Omnibus by Hugh Howey. <hl> The story is well written and engaging <hl>. The characters were well drawn and I liked getting to know them. As I became involved in the story, I felt the emotions of the characters and walked with them into elation, fear, despair and joy. This is one of the best books I have read for quite a while.

<hl> The story is well written and engaging <hl> .


Question: How was that end?

The style as usual is very lucid. But the ending is too fantastic and forced. Everything seemed to have fitted in place for Harry Potter.

Answer: the ending is too fantastic and forced

The style as usual is very lucid. <hl> But the ending is too fantastic and forced . <hl> Everything seemed to have fitted in place for Harry Potter.

The style as usual is very lucid. But <hl> the ending is too fantastic and forced <hl>. Everything seemed to have fitted in place for Harry Potter.

But <hl> the ending is too fantastic and forced <hl> .


Question: How does that youth write?

I know the writing is horrible, but I really don't care. I love this series! It's definitely one of my guilty pleasures in life, and I find myself having to re-read the series every couple of years.

Answer: horrible

<hl> I know the writing is horrible , but I really don't care. <hl> I love this series! It's definitely one of my guilty pleasures in life, and I find myself having to re-read the series every couple of years.

I know the writing is <hl> horrible <hl>, but I really don't care. I love this series! It's definitely one of my guilty pleasures in life, and I find myself having to re-read the series every couple of years.

I know the writing is <hl> horrible <hl> , but I really don't care.


Question: How is the quality of the book?

This book is really for younger readers, but some of the messages for young girls is ridiculously old fashion. The book is too much about a girl with a crush.

Answer: This book is really for younger readers

<hl> This book is really for younger readers , but some of the messages for young girls is ridiculously old fashion. <hl> The book is too much about a girl with a crush.

<hl> This book is really for younger readers <hl>, but some of the messages for young girls is ridiculously old fashion. The book is too much about a girl with a crush.

<hl> This book is really for younger readers <hl> , but some of the messages for young girls is ridiculously old fashion.


Question: Do you have any other children?

1. Writing Style/Readability: The writing style is really simple, but this IS a book directed towards younger kids after all. Plus, it's a better style for an action novel as it doesn't belabor the point for 20 pages by describing every bead of sweat and sound in the forest. As for "readability" I COULD NOT PUT THIS BOOK DOWN.2. Plot: this is one of the things that made The Hunger Games really hit home for me. It was fast paced and action-packed and also "wonderfully predictable" in that when you really want something to happen, it does.3. Characters: All of them were pretty plain with not much going on underneath the surface, but not in a way that was annoying or unenjoyable. The heroine is full of nothing but, of course, moral fiber, her only "flaw" being that she has a fiery temper which is played to be endearing. She's also very humble of her abilities and totally oblivious to Peeta and Gale's affections for her (yet oh so observant on the battlefield) which is usually extremely annoying, but the other aspects of the novel made up for it.4. Overall Originality:  It goes without saying (but I'll say it anyway) that nothing like this has been done before (and I don't mean in a broad sense about totalitarian government, blah blah). The author added a few futuristic elements to the story with the genetically engineered animals and all that, but not such an alarming amount that would distance the reader from the story.5. Value (was it thought provoking?): Didn't really produce any life changing epiphanies.6. Enjoyment: I loved this book and that is the reason I give it 5 stars. I value books more for how much I enjoyed them personally rather than for how well written or how thought provoking they were, although those are certainly key factors. Ultimately, though, it comes down to if I would want to read this book again or recommend it to friends, and in that aspect, this book is 100% in that category.Also...PG-13Violence in the book isn't graphic in description, but is in concept (teenagers killing each other without empathy and all that, but most video games are no better), but there's no mention of sex (as you'd think there'd be in such a brutal society). I'm glad there isn't, though because this is a book directed towards young teens and senseless sex is obnoxious in any book.The Bottom Line: You'll be missing out if you don't read this book! =]

Answer: The writing style

1. <hl> Writing Style/Readability: The writing style is really simple, but this IS a book directed towards younger kids after all. <hl> Plus, it's a better style for an action novel as it doesn't belabor the point for 20 pages by describing every bead of sweat and sound in the forest. As for "readability" I COULD NOT PUT THIS BOOK DOWN.2. Plot: this is one of the things that made The Hunger Games really hit home for me. It was fast paced and action-packed and also "wonderfully predictable" in that when you really want something to happen, it does.3. Characters: All of them were pretty plain with not much going on underneath the surface, but not in a way that was annoying or unenjoyable. The heroine is full of nothing but, of course, moral fiber, her only "flaw" being that she has a fiery temper which is played to be endearing. She's also very humble of her abilities and totally oblivious to Peeta and Gale's affections for her ( yet oh so observant on the battlefield) which is usually extremely annoying, but the other aspects of the novel made up for it.4. Overall Originality: It goes without saying (but I'll say it anyway) that nothing like this has been done before (and I don't mean in a broad sense about totalitarian government, blah blah). The author added a few futuristic elements to the story with the genetically engineered animals and all that, but not such an alarming amount that would distance the reader from the story.5. Value (was it thought provoking?): Didn't really produce any life changing epiphanies.6. Enjoyment: I loved this book and that is the reason I give it 5 stars. I value books more for how much I enjoyed them personally rather than for how well written or how thought provoking they were, although those are certainly key factors. Ultimately, though, it comes down to if I would want to read this book again or recommend it to friends, and in that aspect, this book is 100% in that category. Also...PG-13Violence in the book isn't graphic in description, but is in concept (teenagers killing each other without empathy and all that, but most video games are no better), but there's no mention of sex (as you'd think there'd be in such a brutal society). I'm glad there isn't, though because this is a book directed towards young teens and senseless sex is obnoxious in any book. The Bottom Line: You'll be missing out if you don't read this book! =]

1. Writing Style/Readability: <hl> The writing style <hl> is really simple, but this IS a book directed towards younger kids after all. Plus, it's a better style for an action novel as it doesn't belabor the point for 20 pages by describing every bead of sweat and sound in the forest. As for "readability" I COULD NOT PUT THIS BOOK DOWN.2. Plot: this is one of the things that made The Hunger Games really hit home for me. It was fast paced and action-packed and also "wonderfully predictable" in that when you really want something to happen, it does.3. Characters: All of them were pretty plain with not much going on underneath the surface, but not in a way that was annoying or unenjoyable. The heroine is full of nothing but, of course, moral fiber, her only "flaw" being that she has a fiery temper which is played to be endearing. She's also very humble of her abilities and totally oblivious to Peeta and Gale's affections for her (yet oh so observant on the battlefield) which is usually extremely annoying, but the other aspects of the novel made up for it.4. Overall Originality: It goes without saying (but I'll say it anyway) that nothing like this has been done before (and I don't mean in a broad sense about totalitarian government, blah blah). The author added a few futuristic elements to the story with the genetically engineered animals and all that, but not such an alarming amount that would distance the reader from the story.5. Value (was it thought provoking?): Didn't really produce any life changing epiphanies.6. Enjoyment: I loved this book and that is the reason I give it 5 stars. I value books more for how much I enjoyed them personally rather than for how well written or how thought provoking they were, although those are certainly key factors. Ultimately, though, it comes down to if I would want to read this book again or recommend it to friends, and in that aspect, this book is 100% in that category.Also...PG-13Violence in the book isn't graphic in description, but is in concept (teenagers killing each other without empathy and all that, but most video games are no better), but there's no mention of sex (as you'd think there'd be in such a brutal society). I'm glad there isn't, though because this is a book directed towards young teens and senseless sex is obnoxious in any book.The Bottom Line: You'll be missing out if you don't read this book! =]


Question: What is this voice that we can hear in the background?

I was just looking for something new to read, when a friend pressed this into my hands.  I could not put it down.  Wonderful. Wonderful.  Can't believe this was her first novel!  Those voices in each chapter were so clear, I know I know all these people!Don't miss it.  A great gift for someone who loves a great story.  Not an angry novel, but so honest and revealing and poignant.

Answer: Wonderful. Wonderful

Wonderful. Wonderful .

I was just looking for something new to read, when a friend pressed this into my hands. I could not put it down. <hl> Wonderful. Wonderful . <hl> Can't believe this was her first novel! Those voices in each chapter were so clear, I know I know all these people!Don't miss it. A great gift for someone who loves a great story. Not an angry novel, but so honest and revealing and poignant.

I was just looking for something new to read, when a friend pressed this into my hands. I could not put it down. <hl> Wonderful. Wonderful <hl>. Can't believe this was her first novel! Those voices in each chapter were so clear, I know I know all these people!Don't miss it. A great gift for someone who loves a great story. Not an angry novel, but so honest and revealing and poignant.


Question: What is the most exciting part of the story?

This is the second book I have read by Colleen Hoover and I have already come to some sound conclusions.One. Be prepared to be shocked. It is always best going into her books with little knowledge of what is going to happen. The synopsis will give you an idea but you can be sure that there is always going to be plenty of twists and turns along the way.Two. Be prepared to laugh. She beautifully blends in laughter with real life subjects that aren't always laughable.Three. Be prepared to cry. We are not talking the tiny little tears, these are the healthy, giant, sobbing tears. You won't be upset that she has made you cry, strangely you will be silently thanking her as the tears are falling.Four. Be prepared to discover a new favorite author. I mean this in the most sincere way possible... Colleen Hoover, you rock!The irony is not lost me that I can't seem to find the words to express the emotions and feelings that I experienced while I was reading Slammed. Why is it ironic? Because this is a book about words. Words thrown together to express feelings through poetry... slam poetry. But really it is so much more than that. This is not your typical girl meets boy, girl and boy fall in love and the rest is history type of story. Yes there is a girl and a boy, yes they fall in love but that is not even the half of it."Life happens. S*** happens. And it happens a lot. To a lot of people."This story is about life. This story is about death. This story is about living. The good, the bad and the ugly of it all."Three days ago, I was devastated, bitter, and hopeless. Today I woke up feeling happy for the first time in months."Layken (Lake) is one of the strongest female characters I have ever read. She is strong, supportive, mature, stubborn, loyal... the list could go on and on. She finds herself torn from everything she knows in her life quite suddenly. Her father dies unexpectedly, her mother then moves her and her brother from Texas to Michigan. She doesn't want her new life but quickly she finds Will and everything changes."And what's a slam?" I ask."It's poetry." He smiles at me. "It's what I'm all about."Will is also one of the strongest male characters I have read. Every characteristic I have given to Lake can be given to Will. What he has done with his life in order to care for and support his younger brother is awe-inspiring. To be responsible for another life at such a young age shows courage. He never whines or moans about it. There is never the 'woe is me' or 'what has happened to my life' speeches. He is simply amazing.To be honest there is not a character that is not written well and rounded out beautifully. You will end up caring and loving each and every one of them and you will care about what happens to them. Lake's brother Kel and Will's brother Caulder are adorable. They are so funny and I laughed so many times... I will only say this. The dead snowman. Could not have laughed more. Then we have Lake's new best friend Eddie. I think she is fantastic and could not love her more than I do already. oooOOOooohhh Eddie's boyfriend Gavin. *sigh* He is so sweet and the love he has for Eddie is apparent.So, back to point number one about a Colleen Hoover book. You do not want to know too much about it before you start so this is all you are getting out of me. I do not want to be the person that ruins this beautiful story for anybody who will be reading it. And I truly hope that person who will be reading it will be you if you haven't already. This story will touch you and stay with you for a long time after you have completed it.Now for me I am off to start book two, Point of Retreat. I have only just found out that it is actually told from Will's POV and I am so excited I could burst."And if you've ever grown up with dreams in your head about life, and how one of these days you would pirate your own ship and have your own crew and that all of the mermaidswould loveonly you?Well, you would realize...Like I eventually realized...That all the good things about her?All the beautiful?It's not real.It's fake.So you keep your ocean,I'll take the Lake."ChristineRainy Day Reads

Answer: "This story is about life. This story is about death

This is the second book I have read by Colleen Hoover and I have already come to some sound conclusions. One. Be prepared to be shocked. It is always best going into her books with little knowledge of what is going to happen. The synopsis will give you an idea but you can be sure that there is always going to be plenty of twists and turns along the way. Two. Be prepared to laugh. She beautifully blends in laughter with real life subjects that aren't always laughable. Three. Be prepared to cry. We are not talking the tiny little tears, these are the healthy, giant, sobbing tears. You won't be upset that she has made you cry, strangely you will be silently thanking her as the tears are falling. Four. Be prepared to discover a new favorite author. I mean this in the most sincere way possible... Colleen Hoover, you rock!The irony is not lost me that I can't seem to find the words to express the emotions and feelings that I experienced while I was reading Slammed. Why is it ironic? Because this is a book about words. Words thrown together to express feelings through poetry... slam poetry. But really it is so much more than that. This is not your typical girl meets boy, girl and boy fall in love and the rest is history type of story. Yes there is a girl and a boy, yes they fall in love but that is not even the half of it. "Life happens. S*** happens. And it happens a lot. To a lot of people. <hl> "This story is about life. This story is about death . <hl> This story is about living. The good, the bad and the ugly of it all. "Three days ago, I was devastated, bitter, and hopeless. Today I woke up feeling happy for the first time in months. "Layken (Lake) is one of the strongest female characters I have ever read. She is strong, supportive, mature, stubborn, loyal... the list could go on and on. She finds herself torn from everything she knows in her life quite suddenly. Her father dies unexpectedly, her mother then moves her and her brother from Texas to Michigan. She doesn't want her new life but quickly she finds Will and everything changes. "And what's a slam?" I ask. "It's poetry." He smiles at me. "It's what I'm all about. "Will is also one of the strongest male characters I have read. Every characteristic I have given to Lake can be given to Will. What he has done with his life in order to care for and support his younger brother is awe-inspiring. To be responsible for another life at such a young age shows courage. He never whines or moans about it. There is never the 'woe is me' or 'what has happened to my life' speeches. He is simply amazing. To be honest there is not a character that is not written well and rounded out beautifully. You will end up caring and loving each and every one of them and you will care about what happens to them. Lake's brother Kel and Will's brother Caulder are adorable. They are so funny and I laughed so many times... I will only say this. The dead snowman. Could not have laughed more. Then we have Lake's new best friend Eddie. I think she is fantastic and could not love her more than I do already. oooOOOooohhh Eddie's boyfriend Gavin. *sigh* He is so sweet and the love he has for Eddie is apparent. So, back to point number one about a Colleen Hoover book. You do not want to know too much about it before you start so this is all you are getting out of me. I do not want to be the person that ruins this beautiful story for anybody who will be reading it. And I truly hope that person who will be reading it will be you if you haven't already. This story will touch you and stay with you for a long time after you have completed it. Now for me I am off to start book two, Point of Retreat. I have only just found out that it is actually told from Will's POV and I am so excited I could burst. "And if you've ever grown up with dreams in your head about life, and how one of these days you would pirate your own ship and have your own crew and that all of the mermaidswould loveonly you?Well, you would realize...Like I eventually realized...That all the good things about her?All the beautiful?It's not real. It's fake. So you keep your ocean,I'll take the Lake."ChristineRainy Day Reads

This is the second book I have read by Colleen Hoover and I have already come to some sound conclusions.One. Be prepared to be shocked. It is always best going into her books with little knowledge of what is going to happen. The synopsis will give you an idea but you can be sure that there is always going to be plenty of twists and turns along the way.Two. Be prepared to laugh. She beautifully blends in laughter with real life subjects that aren't always laughable.Three. Be prepared to cry. We are not talking the tiny little tears, these are the healthy, giant, sobbing tears. You won't be upset that she has made you cry, strangely you will be silently thanking her as the tears are falling.Four. Be prepared to discover a new favorite author. I mean this in the most sincere way possible... Colleen Hoover, you rock!The irony is not lost me that I can't seem to find the words to express the emotions and feelings that I experienced while I was reading Slammed. Why is it ironic? Because this is a book about words. Words thrown together to express feelings through poetry... slam poetry. But really it is so much more than that. This is not your typical girl meets boy, girl and boy fall in love and the rest is history type of story. Yes there is a girl and a boy, yes they fall in love but that is not even the half of it."Life happens. S*** happens. And it happens a lot. To a lot of people.<hl> "This story is about life. This story is about death <hl>. This story is about living. The good, the bad and the ugly of it all."Three days ago, I was devastated, bitter, and hopeless. Today I woke up feeling happy for the first time in months."Layken (Lake) is one of the strongest female characters I have ever read. She is strong, supportive, mature, stubborn, loyal... the list could go on and on. She finds herself torn from everything she knows in her life quite suddenly. Her father dies unexpectedly, her mother then moves her and her brother from Texas to Michigan. She doesn't want her new life but quickly she finds Will and everything changes."And what's a slam?" I ask."It's poetry." He smiles at me. "It's what I'm all about."Will is also one of the strongest male characters I have read. Every characteristic I have given to Lake can be given to Will. What he has done with his life in order to care for and support his younger brother is awe-inspiring. To be responsible for another life at such a young age shows courage. He never whines or moans about it. There is never the 'woe is me' or 'what has happened to my life' speeches. He is simply amazing.To be honest there is not a character that is not written well and rounded out beautifully. You will end up caring and loving each and every one of them and you will care about what happens to them. Lake's brother Kel and Will's brother Caulder are adorable. They are so funny and I laughed so many times... I will only say this. The dead snowman. Could not have laughed more. Then we have Lake's new best friend Eddie. I think she is fantastic and could not love her more than I do already. oooOOOooohhh Eddie's boyfriend Gavin. *sigh* He is so sweet and the love he has for Eddie is apparent.So, back to point number one about a Colleen Hoover book. You do not want to know too much about it before you start so this is all you are getting out of me. I do not want to be the person that ruins this beautiful story for anybody who will be reading it. And I truly hope that person who will be reading it will be you if you haven't already. This story will touch you and stay with you for a long time after you have completed it.Now for me I am off to start book two, Point of Retreat. I have only just found out that it is actually told from Will's POV and I am so excited I could burst."And if you've ever grown up with dreams in your head about life, and how one of these days you would pirate your own ship and have your own crew and that all of the mermaidswould loveonly you?Well, you would realize...Like I eventually realized...That all the good things about her?All the beautiful?It's not real.It's fake.So you keep your ocean,I'll take the Lake."ChristineRainy Day Reads

<hl> "This story is about life. This story is about death <hl> .


Question: What can you say about the book?

I think the author accomplished what she set out to do in this novel, which is why I leaned toward the possibility of giving it four stars. It's light and fun, adventurous and mysterious. Comparing it to more serious YA novels isn't fair. It's not meant to be deep I think, even when it comes to characterization. And speaking of characterization, I give props to the author for making me actually like Evie even though she is all perky and pink and sparkly--so totally *not* the kind of person I can relate to. Also, the take on paranormals was unique, and there were some clever twists in the story.That said, there were times the whole perky/pink/sparkly personality of Evie went overboard for me. There were too many oh-so-perfect moments, and of course the ever-present YA fiction insta-love (although I admit it was handled better than in a lot of YA books out there). And even though I didn't expect too much depth, I did find myself a little annoyed with the lack of emotion in certain places. Just ratcheting it up *a little* would have helped. Anyway, all in all, I ended up leaning more toward three stars.Still, I enjoyed the book. The writing was pretty good, and I'd recommend it as a sit-by-the-pool kind of read (something just for fun, in other words).

Answer: I give props to the author for making me actually like Evie even though she is all perky and pink and sparkly

I think the author accomplished what she set out to do in this novel, which is why I leaned toward the possibility of giving it four stars. It's light and fun, adventurous and mysterious. Comparing it to more serious YA novels isn't fair. It's not meant to be deep I think, even when it comes to characterization. <hl> And speaking of characterization, I give props to the author for making me actually like Evie even though she is all perky and pink and sparkly --so totally *not* the kind of person I can relate to. <hl> Also, the take on paranormals was unique, and there were some clever twists in the story. That said, there were times the whole perky/pink/sparkly personality of Evie went overboard for me. There were too many oh-so-perfect moments, and of course the ever-present YA fiction insta-love (although I admit it was handled better than in a lot of YA books out there). And even though I didn't expect too much depth, I did find myself a little annoyed with the lack of emotion in certain places. Just ratcheting it up *a little* would have helped. Anyway, all in all, I ended up leaning more toward three stars. Still, I enjoyed the book. The writing was pretty good, and I'd recommend it as a sit-by-the-pool kind of read (something just for fun, in other words).

I think the author accomplished what she set out to do in this novel, which is why I leaned toward the possibility of giving it four stars. It's light and fun, adventurous and mysterious. Comparing it to more serious YA novels isn't fair. It's not meant to be deep I think, even when it comes to characterization. And speaking of characterization, <hl> I give props to the author for making me actually like Evie even though she is all perky and pink and sparkly <hl>--so totally *not* the kind of person I can relate to. Also, the take on paranormals was unique, and there were some clever twists in the story.That said, there were times the whole perky/pink/sparkly personality of Evie went overboard for me. There were too many oh-so-perfect moments, and of course the ever-present YA fiction insta-love (although I admit it was handled better than in a lot of YA books out there). And even though I didn't expect too much depth, I did find myself a little annoyed with the lack of emotion in certain places. Just ratcheting it up *a little* would have helped. Anyway, all in all, I ended up leaning more toward three stars.Still, I enjoyed the book. The writing was pretty good, and I'd recommend it as a sit-by-the-pool kind of read (something just for fun, in other words).

And speaking of characterization, <hl> I give props to the author for making me actually like Evie even though she is all perky and pink and sparkly <hl> --so totally *not* the kind of person I can relate to.


Question: How is the star?

I heard a lot of great things about this book but was ultimately disappointed. I started and stopped reading it about 6 times. Then I found out the movie was coming out so I forced myself to finish it. The first half was aweful. I didn't care for the characters, didn't care what happened to them or the plot, and found the whole thing self-indulgent. The second half was much better, but I didn't like how quickly the change happened. The twist wasn't unexpected, but I still found a lot of it unbelivable. The ending was very strange and unsatisfying. Overall, fine, but not great

Answer: fine, but not great

Overall, fine, but not great

I heard a lot of great things about this book but was ultimately disappointed. I started and stopped reading it about 6 times. Then I found out the movie was coming out so I forced myself to finish it. The first half was aweful. I didn't care for the characters, didn't care what happened to them or the plot, and found the whole thing self-indulgent. The second half was much better, but I didn't like how quickly the change happened. The twist wasn't unexpected, but I still found a lot of it unbelivable. The ending was very strange and unsatisfying. <hl> Overall, fine, but not great <hl>

I heard a lot of great things about this book but was ultimately disappointed. I started and stopped reading it about 6 times. Then I found out the movie was coming out so I forced myself to finish it. The first half was aweful. I didn't care for the characters, didn't care what happened to them or the plot, and found the whole thing self-indulgent. The second half was much better, but I didn't like how quickly the change happened. The twist wasn't unexpected, but I still found a lot of it unbelivable. The ending was very strange and unsatisfying. Overall, <hl> fine, but not great <hl>