Book Description
"Softly he brushed my cheek, then held my face between his marble hands. 'Be very still,' he whispered, as if I wasn't already frozen. Slowly, never moving his eyes from mine, he leaned toward me. Then abruptly, but very gently, he rested his cold cheek against the hollow at the base of my throat." As Shakespeare knew, love burns high when thwarted by obstacles. In Twilight, an exquisite fantasy by Stephenie Meyer, readers discover a pair of lovers who are supremely star-crossed. Bella adores beautiful Edward, and he returns her love. But Edward is having a hard time controlling the blood lust she arouses in him, because--he's a vampire. At any moment, the intensity of their passion could drive him to kill her, and he agonizes over the danger. But, Bella would rather be dead than part from Edward, so she risks her life to stay near him, and the novel burns with the erotic tension of their dangerous and necessarily chaste relationship.Meyer has achieved quite a feat by making this scenario completely human and believable. She begins with a familiar YA premise (the new kid in school), and lulls us into thinking this will be just another realistic young adult novel. Bella has come to the small town of Forks on the gloomy Olympic Peninsula to be with her father. At school, she wonders about a group of five remarkably beautiful teens, who sit together in the cafeteria but never eat. As she grows to know, and then love, Edward, she learns their secret. They are all rescued vampires, part of a family headed by saintly Carlisle, who has inspired them to renounce human prey. For Edward's sake they welcome Bella, but when a roving group of tracker vampires fixates on her, the family is drawn into a desperate pursuit to protect the fragile human in their midst.The precision and delicacy of Meyer's writing lifts this wonderful novel beyond the limitations of the horror genre to a place among the best of YA fiction.(Ages 12 and up) --Patty Campbell 10 Second Interview: A Few Words with Stephenie Meyer Q: Were you a fan of Buffy the Vampire Slayer? Angel? What are you watching now that those shows are off the air? A: I have never seen an entire episode of Buffy or Angel. While I was writing Twilight, I let my older sister read along chapter by chapter. She's a huge Buffy fan and she kept trying to get me to watch, but I was afraid it would mess up my vision of the vampire world so I never did. I don't have a ton of time for TV, and my kids get rowdy when I have on "mommy shows," but I do have a secret fondness for reality shows (the good ones, at least in my opinion). I always TiVo Survivor, The Amazing Race, and America's Next Top Model. Q: What inspired you to write Twilight? Is this the beginning of a series? Why write for teens? A: Twilight was inspired by a very vivid dream, which is fairly faithfully transcribed as chapter thirteen of the book. There are sequels on the way--I'm hard at work editing book two (tentatively titled New Moon) right now, and book three is waiting in line for its turn. I didn't mean to write for teens--I didn't mean to write for anyone but myself, so I had an audience of one twenty-nine year old (and later one thirty-one year old when my sister started reading). I think the reason that I ended up with a book for teens is because high school is such a compelling time period--it gives you some of your worst scars and some of your most exhilarating memories. It's a fascinating place: old enough to feel truly adult, old enough to make decisions that affect the rest of your life, old enough to fall in love, yet, at the same time too young (in most cases) to be free to make a lot of those decisions without someone else's approval. There's a lot of scope for a novel in that. Q: What is your favorite vampire story? Fave vampire movie? A: I guess my favorite vampire story would be The Vampire Lestat, by Anne Rice, simply because it's one of the only ones I've ever read. I keep meaning to pick up Bram Stoker's Dracula, because I get asked this question so often and I should probably start with the classics, but I haven't gotten around to it yet. Again, I'm afraid to read other vampire books now, for fear of finding things either too similar, or too different from my own vampire world. Ack! I can't even answer the movie question. I can't remember ever seeing a single vampire movie, outside of clips from Bela Lugosi movies on TV. I don't like true horror movies--my favorite scary movies are all Hitchcock's. Q: What other young adult authors do you read? A: My favorite young adult author is L.M. Montgomery I also enjoyJ.K. Rowling (but who doesn't?), and Ann Brashares. As a teen, I skipped straight to adult books (lots of sci-fi and Jane Austen), so I'm rediscovering the world of teen literature now. Stephenie Meyer's List of Books You Should Read Anne of Green GablesRomeo and JulietDragonflightTo Kill a Mockingbird The Princess BrideSee more recommendations from Stephenie Meyer Amazon.com's Significant SevenStephenie Meyer graciously agreed to answer the questions we like to ask every author: the Amazon.com Significant Seven. Q: What book has had the most significant impact on your life?A: The book with the most significant impact on my life is The Book of Mormon. The book with the most significant impact on my life as a writer is probably Speaker for the Dead, by Orson Scott Card, with Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier coming in as a close second.Q: You are stranded on a desert island with only one book, one CD, and one DVD--what are they?A: The CD is easy: Absolution by Muse, hands down. It's harder to give myself just one movie, but the one I watch most frequently is Sense and Sensibility--the one with the screenplay by Emma Thompson. One book is impossible. I'd have to have Pride and Prejudice, but I couldn't live without something by Orson Scott Card and a nice, thick Maeve Binchy, too.Q: What is the worst lie you've ever told?A: My lies are all very, very boring: "No, you really look great in hot pink!" "My children only watch one hour of TV a day." "I didn't eat the last Swiss Cake Roll--it must have been one of the kids." That's the best I've got.Q: Describe the perfect writing environment.A: It's late at night and the house is silent, but I'm still (miraculously) full of energy. I have my headphones in and I'm listened to a mix of Muse, Coldplay, Travis, My Chemical Romance, and The All-American Rejects. Beside me is a fabulous, and yet mysteriously low in calorie, cheesecake....Q: If you could write your own epitaph, what would it say?A: I'd like it to say that I really tried at the important things.I was never perfect at any of them, but I honestly tried to be a great mom, a loving wife, a good daughter, and a true friend. Under that, I'd want a list of my favorite Simpsons quotes.Q: Who is the one person living or dead that you would like to have dinner with?A: I'd love to have a chance to talk to Orson Scott Card--I have a million questions for him. Mostly things like, "How do you come up with this stuff?!" But, if he wasn't available, I'd settle for Matthew Bellamy (lead singer of Muse).Q: If you could have one superpower, what would it be?A: I'd want something offensive, rather than defensive. Like shooting fireballs from my hands. That way, you're really open to going either way--hero or villain. I like to have choices.
Customer Reviews:
"Twlight".......2007-10-18
I know the book is for young teens, my daughter got a copy from the library, I was curious to read it myself, so when I read one page I was hooked, it's as if I was pulled into the story myself, watching on the sidelines. I'm a middle aged woman and I loved this book, I have all three books now and waiting for more, Bella does things that you want to scream about, but keep in mind she is a teenager, and some girls can't handle attention from the opposite sex, which can make some girls do crazy things, so please keep a open mind and just enjoy the fantasy.(It is fiction after all) "Edward" I just love him and I don't mind being reminded of those golden eyes, it makes me week in the stomach to imagine him, the others are nice to imagine as well, the story takes me back to when I was a teen. I really hope new readers enjoy the characters and story line. :)
Twilight.... such a good read!.......2007-10-18
I couldn't put this book down and ordered the other two in the series before I had finished it. Such a silly premise... vampires?... but the suspense was amazing and the characters were terrific. A great read!
Thoroughly Entertaining!.......2007-10-18
It has been a while since I have read something that was so entertaining and refreshing and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I think it is very well written and the characters are nicely fleshed out. Bella and Edward are such likeable characters that I was disappointed when I finally finished this book. Luckily I have two more to devour now. I highly recommend this book if you are looking for something entertaining and thrilling.
Great Book! Can't wait to read the second!.......2007-10-17
My mother, who is a fifth grade teacher, gave this for me to read. At first, I was questioning why my mother was even reading it, but once I got past the first chapter, I could see why! This book is just not for young adults-it's for everyone who loves vampires and the like. READ IT!
Quite honestly..........2007-10-17
...this the best book I've read in YEARS. My 22 yr old daughter was talking and talking about this book. So, finally, I decided to read it myself. Now keep in mind I'm 49 and no fan of science fiction.
But this book, this book keep me enthralled throughout. You'll fall in love with the characters Bella & Edward.
Take my advice, get all 3 books now and save yourself the trip back to the bookstore.
Book Description
Middle school is all about change. In the opening section, girls take a quiz to determine how they respond to change, then receive tips on how to cope with the big changes that they're getting ready to face as they start middle school- switching classes, getting up earlier, and having their own lockers, all while learning to manage a new school, new teachers, new friends, and LOTS more homework and activities! The secret to feeling more confident as she starts middle school is having a little insight into what to expect. This book provides that information as well as "Smart Girl's tips" from girls who have already made the grade in the big school.
Customer Reviews:
Not that great... :(.......2007-10-03
I got this book from the library, because even though I'm homeschooled, I was hoping it might give me tips on studying for tests doing homework, and other such things. The only thing in there I didn't really know before was how to place things in your backpack to make it not so heavy. And their schedule for getting ready in the morning was not bad either. Also, the "After School" section, gave you pretty good advice on tryouts and how much is too much activities. But being as to how that's just about two thirds of the book I'd say it's not worth your money. Also they make middle school sound scarier than I think it really is. For example, they said "Picture yourself having a good time in middle school." They make it sound like you're going to a different country! So overall, you might get it at the library, but I wouldn't buy it.
Smart Giirls Guide.......2007-10-03
My daughter started middle school this year and has read this book from cover to cover at least 5 times. She has always liked American Girl books and I don't have to worry about her reading inappropriate material. Highly recommend for any girl starting middle school.
Another American Girl Success.......2007-01-12
My daughter will be entering middle school next year. As far as books go, this one will help her more than any other I've seen. Every book in this series has been a hit and this one is no exception.
Not that helpful.......2007-01-02
My eleven year old daughter and i read it. It was not that helpful. Everything in there she already knew. I recomend it if you were homeschooled but otherwise it's not that great.
This Book Was So Great!!!!!!!!.......2006-08-27
This book was so great!!!! When I first got this book I didn't know squat, but ever since I got this book middle school doesn't seem that much scary to me anymore. So if your starting middle school then you should buy this book,also if you in 7th, 8th, and even beyond use this book for help throughout your school years!
Book Description
Don't You Forget About Me continues the #1 New York Times bestselling series about the provocative lives of New York City's most prestigious private school young adults. Sharp wit, intriguing characters, and high stakes melodrama drive the action of this addictive series that have made Gossip Girl the lit world's coveted "it" girl.
Customer Reviews:
AMAZING!.......2007-08-21
This was a great way to end the series for nate, blair, and serena. I'll admit it, I cried at the end. I read every Gossip Girl novel, but this one was byfar my favorite. Cecily knows how to write a series. You're hooked, and the characters become a big part of your life. (at least for me anyway). I'm super excited for the pre-quil, scheduled to release in october; and very, VERY, excited for the tv show...i'm interested to see how much they actually keep to the book. This series is amazing, so buy them all, read them all, and pretend to be them all!
You Know You Love Me!
Did the editor fall asleep on this one?.......2007-06-30
I'm an avid reader of Gossip Girl, and when my copy of this novel came in the mail I was very excited to read it. I loved every bit of it, except one thing. There are so many mistakes in the story. One minute Nate has BUCK NAKED written on his chest in red ink, and the next page it'll say it was black. Things like this continued on with what the girls were wearing. The author is famous for sticking in designer labels wherever she sees fit, but this time I think she got a little mixed up. One page Blair is wearing coral colored Prada flats, let's say, and the next page they magically turn into leopard print D&G's. It was little things like that that annoyed me but overall it was an AMAZING book and I can't wait for the prequel.
Say Goodbye to New York...for now.......2007-06-19
The eleventh and final novel of the Gossip Girl series was, to say the least, a little mediocre. I have to agree with majority of the reviews that, whereas it was a fun read like all the previous books, I kind of expected a little more. It seems it ended quickly with a boring just-need-to-finish-the-series goodbye.
Though I am excited to for the new "season" of Gossip Girl staring the Carlyle Triplets, I wonder if it will just be a repeat or the same played out drama that we've seen with Blair, Serena, Nate and the other characters of the first Gossip Girl. Of course that won't stop be from buying the novel anyways! :)
P.S. To all the Gossip Girl fans, the CW is going to be airing Gossip Girl the tv series in the fall of 2007, so keep an eye for commercials. Blake Lively will be playing Serena, but for more information go to IMDB.com or Wikipedia.com and search for "Gossip Girl".
They've done it again...........2007-06-08
Once again, the characters of von Ziegesar's G. G. series have captured my attention & taken me on another dramatic adventure in the life & times of rich, Manhattan teens. If you've followed this series from the start, like I have, then you'll be thoroughly entertained & satisfied with the last chapters of the overwhelmingly chaotic, yet amusing, story of these characters lives. It'll have you heart-wrenched & heart-warmed as you join Blair, Serena, Nate & all the other people we seem to be wishing we were during their last summer before college. Just when you think you know exactly who gets their way & who ends up sitting in Central Park alone, the ending hits you & you're left wishing there was more to the story than that. I definitely recommend this as a good read to anyone, but especially to those of you still waiting to see how the grand adventure ends.
Oh, please........2007-06-08
This book sucked. And thank God it is the last, these characters need to be put to rest.
But it is so surpising? After Cecily left, the book got very, VERY dumb.
Ok, in the latest installment, Nate finds out that he's in love with both Blair and Serena.
Oh, big shocker. As if we didn't see that coming already.
And I'm so damn tired of Serena. She is such a Mary-Sue. No one is perfect like that. And it irks me to death how much time is wasted describing her slutty behind.
And Dan? Oh, lord. How did I kwow? Hmm, maybe because no one in this book can last wth anyone for more than a chapter?
Dan is not gay. I saw this coming. You saw it coming. You dead ancestors saw it coming. And who does he like, yet again? Vanessaaaa.
Wow.
Sorry, but this book was very stupid and I regret ever buying it.
Oh, and did you hear? This series is getting NEW people next year. Wow, more Mary-Sues. Can't wait! >:U
Average customer rating:
- Cute Story
- I Love Kids Literature But This Book Was Not My Taste
- Definitely not what it appears
- Great read!
- A wonderful story
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Princess Academy
Shannon Hale
Manufacturer: Bloomsbury USA Children's Books
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Binding: Hardcover
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ASIN: 1582349932
Release Date: 2005-06-16 |
Book Description
Miri lives on a mountain where, for generations, her ancestors have quarried stone and lived a simple life. Then word comes that the king's priests have divined her small village the home of the future princess. In a year's time, the prince himself will come and choose his bride from among the girls of the village. The king's ministers set up an academy on the mountain, and every teenage girl must attend and learn how to become a princess.
Miri soon finds herself confronted with a harsh academy mistress, bitter competition among the girls, and her own conflicting desires to be chosen and win the heart of her childhood best friend. But when bandits seek out the academy to kidnap the future princess, Miri must rally the girls together and use a power unique to the mountain dwellers to save herself and her classmates.
Customer Reviews:
Cute Story.......2007-09-22
I picked this up at a book fair and thought it was a cute story.
I Love Kids Literature But This Book Was Not My Taste.......2007-09-13
I bought the book on the suggestion of other reviews but I was disapointed.
I read the book and it seemed to have a slow start, there was a large assortment of characters though I felt they were not very well developed.
I really don't suggest this tale. I am intereste dint he authors other ork but I will get it from the libray and not waste money purchasing them.
Definitely not what it appears.......2007-09-02
I liked this book far more than I ever intended to. I'm a huge fan of "Goose Girl", but a book with this kind of title? Why don't you just shoot me in the head? But eventually I found myself purchasing what turned out to be a literal diamond in the rough (you see, there's this whole mountain quarry thing going on in the novel).
Wow, was I impressed! Rather than a bunch of silly girls wanting to be princesses, Ms. Hale creates a realistic society of some mountain peasants simply trying to survive in their own little niche of the kingdom. Our heroine is Miri, a small girl that can't wait to join the rest of her village in the quarry. But she is not allowed.
To shake things up, the prince of the kingdom supposedly is destined to select a bride from their mountain. So all the elligible girls are gathered together for training.
And we all know what happens when we put a bunch of teenage girls together. Tensions run high as jealousy seeps in. All the girls have their different reasons for being at the school, for wanting to be princess. All of them, wonderfully enough, are fantastic reasons.
It seems as though our little Miri will fall behind. But she proves herself victorious as she grows and learns and realizes she is not the useless little thing she believes she is.
It's sweet, powerful, and inspirational, definitely worth its Newberry Honor.
Great read!.......2007-07-26
This is such a cute book. Perfect for girls 12-15. Fun to read and nothing offensive.
A wonderful story.......2007-07-13
This book was my introduction to Shannon Hale's writing. The characters are well-developed, the landscapes and locations are described vividly, and the ending is very satisfying. The world Shannon Hale has created for these characters is also very unusual and interesting, and her development of the mining town and its culture contributes greatly to the fullness of the story.
I found some of the scenes in the Academy schoolroom to be reminiscent of Frances Hodgson Burnett's A Little Princess (another of my all-time favorite books) -- the way that Miri interacted with her classmates reminded me a litle of Sara Crewe (defying a bully, protecting a younger classmate, etc.). The rest of the stories are very different from each other, however. Perhaps the schoolroom scenes are similar because they are both girls' boarding schools, and some behaviors in that setting can be expected (such as competition for being the best in the class, and clique formation).
Overall, I thought this book told a great story, with memorable characters and an exciting conclusion. It is a great way to introduce yourself to Shannon Hale's other books.
Book Description
“My parents suck ass. Banning me from the phone and restricting my computer privileges are the most tyrannical parental gestures I can think of. Don’t they realize that Hope’s the only one who keeps me sane? . . . I don’t see how things could get any worse.”
When her best friend, Hope Weaver, moves away from Pineville, New Jersey, hyperobservant sixteen-year-old Jessica Darling is devastated. A fish out of water at school and a stranger at home, Jessica feels more lost than ever now that the only person with whom she could really communicate has gone. How is she supposed to deal with the boy- and shopping-crazy girls at school, her dad’s obsession with her track meets, her mother salivating over big sister Bethany’s lavish wedding, and her nonexistent love life?
A fresh, funny, utterly compelling fiction debut by first-time novelist Megan McCafferty,
Sloppy Firsts is an insightful, true-to-life look at Jessica’s predicament as she embarks on another year of teenage torment--from the dark days of Hope’s departure through her months as a type-A personality turned insomniac to her completely mixed-up feelings about Marcus Flutie, the intelligent and mysterious “Dreg” who works his way into her heart. Like a John Hughes for the twenty-first century, Megan McCafferty taps into the inherent humor and drama of the teen experience. This poignant, hilarious novel is sure to appeal to readers who are still going through it, as well as those who are grateful that they don’t have to go back and grow up all over again.
Download Description
When her best friend, Hope, moves away from Pineville, New Jersey, 16-year-old Jessica Darling is devastated. Jessica is a fish out of water at school, a stranger at home, and now -- with the only person with whom she could really communicate gone -- more lost than ever. How is she supposed to deal with the boy-and-shopping-crazy girls at school, her dad's obsession with her track meets, and her nonexistent love life? Sloppy Firsts is an insightful, true-to-life look at Jessica's predicament, from the dark days following Hope's departure to her hopelessly mixed-up feelings about the intelligent and mysterious bad-boy who works his way into her life. Sloppy Firsts is right in line with some of the great teen crossover works of popular culture, like The Perks of Being a Wallflower, and is sure to appeal to readers of all ages who appreciate the inherent humor of high school angst.
Customer Reviews:
Light, funny, and somewhat cliche.......2007-10-17
Though we've seen countless novels like this one before, and countless characters resembling Jessica Darling, this book will make for a fun read. If you're in the mood for some teen-angst, high-school drama, this book hits the spot. There's nothing really unique about this novel, but Megan McCafferty still finds a way to make it so good, that you'll be eager for more.
Light, Fluffy, And Entirely Unmemorable.......2007-09-06
After reading all the praise this book has gotten from the legions of readers who seem to find it absorbing, humorous, and realistic, I was disappointed to find both the plot and the characters extremely clichéd and formulaic.
I'm not saying that I found the book horrible. It was very quick and light, written in a straightforward journal format, making it a fluffy, effortless read. If you're looking for a lightly humorous chick lit novel, this book will fill those requirements.
However, if you're looking for a smart, unique novel that you're going to remember in years to come, I wouldn't recommend this. Most of the characters are either stereotypical or one-dimensional, with the exception of Marcus, who was quite unusual. Jessica was the traditional "smart, misunderstood runner girl". You can find her type in all sorts of teenaged novels. She irritated me. She was incredibly intelligent, a gifted runner, and great at writing, and yet her attitude toward life was generally pretty negative.
With all of her talent, you'd think Jessica would be confident, not pessimistic, which is why she struck me as fake. As for her friends, they were like characters from a soap opera. The plot was monotonous and unsurprising, with no truly exciting twists, right up to the end, which was neither final enough to provide closure nor enough of a cliffhanger to have you eagerly awaiting the sequel.
Instead of this novel, read Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson, The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen, or Just Listen, also by Sarah Dessen. I found all these novels to be much more realistic depictions of high school.
Sloppy Firsts.......2007-08-27
I read this book a few years ago when I saw it in the book store. I'm a rather picky reader and thought this might be fun to pass some time. I was attached to the character Jessica Darling by the end of this book and even more thrilled to find out that there was a second out at the time. Even more so I bought the third one just as it had been released and the same thing now with the Fourth Comings. Megan has created a character that simply comes to life in the reading. I would suggest to most who like coming of age stories to read this. Its quiet heart warming.
Chuckle, Chuckle, Ha Ha, Hee Hee, Tear.......2007-08-16
The first time I read this book, I was in 8th grade and I still love it to this day! I have read it at least 15 times and have never grown tired of it. Jessica Darling is me in a nutshell...if I were a female track star. Everything else is me...yes, I graduated salutatorian of my class and am currently going to Columbia University. I LOVE this series and you should too...especially if you are an angst-filled teenager.
Welcome Back.......2007-08-10
As Charles Dickens once very aptly obsevered: "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times." Of course Dickens wasn't referring to high school, but the French Revolution. But today, in our current American society his words can be no closer to the truth when discussing the legally mandated ritual called high school.
Everyone has his or her story. From the glory days full of football games, after-hour parties, and social ruling to the lesser exuberant memories our being an outsider, not understanding anything going on around you, and the unfortunately bullyness. Yet despite the pangs of High School and the sometimes harsh memories that come along with it, it is a time in our lives that years removed somehow becomes glorified as "the best time of your life," wither that statement is true or not.
McCafferty has constructed an unlikely heroine who reminds us exactly why we hated high school so much... and exactly why we will probably always look back on it with fond memories of times pass. Jessica Darling is you. Jessica Darling is me. Jessica Darling is everyone. Whither you can relate to everything she says, or just a few of the experiences she goes through during these novels, there is a little bit of everything within our heroine.
Unlike the heroines of classic literature that defeat the sociality structures (Dicken's "A Tale of Two Cities"), learn the true meaning of love (a la Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice"), Jessica Darling's one true clam to fame is not only surviving high school, but figuring it out before she leaves the hallowed halls. Most people figure it out sooner or later, but usually when they are removed from the experience.
What McCafferty is trying to say to the audience at large is that life matters. Everything that has happened to you, is happing to you, and will happen you have an effect that you can never dream off. The point of life isn't just sitting back and waiting for the next step. But it is embracing the here and now.
McCafferty is able to do these through a narrative that reads more like a self-aware John Hughes script, rather than 95% of book one would find in their local "young adult fiction" section. And the true genius and charm of the book doesn't from Jessica's stories of high school. But through your own memories, that while reading this book you are able to relive again vicariously through the eyes of Jessica. This book was not written for the tween set as a way to drool over what those "magical four years" will be like (a la "Dawson's Creek"), but as a way for people past that experience to look back and realize just how much their high school years truly means.
I cannot recommend this book enough, especially to fans of the budding new genre of self-aware coming-of-age stories such as "Prep," "Boy meets Boy," and the "Rules of Attraction." In all honestly I must request that everyone in their post high-school years, but still young enough to remember the impact John Hughes has on society to order a copy of this book. You will not be disappointed in the least!
Book Description
lder teens and adult readers can't get enough of Gossip Girl, the anonymous narrator who made her catty debut in the bestselling Gossip Girl and titillated readers in the juicy sequel, You Know You Love Me. Now in All I Want Is Everything, readers will love her even more as Gossip Girl dishes up dose after hefty dose of dirt on all her friends-New York's wealthiest private school teens. Sharp wit, intriguing characters, and high-stakes melodrama drive the action of this wildly popular new series.
Customer Reviews:
Don't waste your time, read a better book.......2007-10-01
I read this book in honor of ALA Banned Book Week, and while I don't believe any book should be banned, I don't think this book should ever have been published. It was filled with typos and out-and-out grammatical errors that made me cringe every time I came across a new one.
The characters were ALL flat, and while I felt a marginal amount of pity for the main character, I couldn't put myself in her shoes and feel any kind of sympathy for her. The book was just poorly written. It was like watching a bad teen movie but takes more of a time commitment.
Instead, pick up a book worth your time like The Princess Diaries Box Set, Volumes I-III (Princess Diaries) by Meg Cabot, or if you really need to read about a poor little rich girl, you can't beat Gingerbread, Shrimp and Cupcake by Rachel Cohn. I mean, even Blue Bloods and Masquerade by Melissa De La Cruz are better than this.
A delicious new series that will definitely give you something to talk about.......2007-09-29
The Upper East Side used to be overrun with plastic surgery happy society women, and spoiled tots torturing their high-priced nannies. But times have changed. While these people still occupy a small portion of the sidewalks, they have been pushed aside for a new generation of beautiful people. Teenagers brought up in the lap of luxury, who spend their days buying overpriced La Perla undergarments at Barney's, and indulging in frozen hot chocolate at Serendipity. But spending money isn't all that's on their mind. There's always...gossip.
Ever since the flawless Serena van der Woodsen departed from New York City to take up residence at a boarding school in Connecticut, sixteen-year-old Blair Waldorf has ruled Constance Billard School for Girls. As the daughter of a prominent lawyer turned gay, Blair has always gotten her way. And, with Serena out of the picture, was able to snag the gorgeous, green-eyed Nate Archibald for herself. Unfortunately, as much as Blair would like to deny it, Nate has always had a thing for Serena. A secret passion for the blonde-haired, blue-eyed beauty. And now with Serena back in the picture, Blair doesn't know where their relationship will stand. So she has to take drastic measures...hand Nate her V card and he'll be hers forever. The only problem is that Nate is a stoner who has a very short attention span, and even sacrificing herself to Nate won't let him forget the passion he feels for Serena.
But he's not the only one. Dan Humphrey isn't your typical rich kid. For one, while he attends school with some of New York City's most privileged, he actually resides in an apartment on the Upper West Side with his chesty younger sister, Jenny, and his eccentric writer father, Rufus. Dan is a dark, brooding poet, whose penchant for cigarettes and Folgers coffee crystals leave much to be desired. But, like Nate, Dan is infatuated with Serena. The only difference is that he has never so much as spoken to her before, and she doesn't know he exists. Now that Serena's off the A-List, and treading outcast waters, however, the only thing he can hope is that she'll find her way to him and they can live happily ever after. In his dreams, of course.
Gossip is one of those things you can't help but be enamored with. Sure, you can pretend all you want that you have no interest in who's dating who, or who's wearing what, but you do. And you love it. Cecily von Ziegesar has managed to touch upon the hot commodity of gossip, and turned it into an amazing new series. Blair is so evil and mean at times, and while that may seem like something that would be a turn-off to the reader, she's actually an addicting character. Her ability to turn people against Serena in a snap is impressive; while the fact that she is able to juggle school, extracurricular's, a boyfriend, and ruining people's lives is humorous in a sinful way. Nate is a character who seems to have nothing between the ears. He's intelligent and gorgeous, however, the fact that he spends most of his time stoned makes him slightly bizarre, and a useless addition to the human race. But I still love him. Thus far, Serena is the most appealing character. She is kind, sweet, and selfless. She manages to ignore the nasty things people say about her, and keep a smile on her face no matter what situation she is thrust into. Basically, she's happy-go-lucky, and completely irresistible. Dan is an offbeat character, who reminds you of old, soulful beatnik poets who spent their days lounging around Greenwich Village in the 1960's. While he seems sweet, some of his poems are so serious and creepy that he can freak you out at times. But the kindness that he extends to his younger sister, Jenny, more than makes up for it; and actually leaves you rooting for the Humphrey family, in general. A delicious new series that will definitely give you something to talk about.
Erika Sorocco
Freelance Reviewer
loved it........2007-09-26
Salacious, overdramatic, juicy, scandalous, hot hot hot!
It's just plain fun. And I appreciate that C von Z has brought teen lit into the 21st century.
Seriously..........2007-09-20
The worst book I have ever read. who really cares about rich brats and their "tragic lives." This probably only appeals to rich white kids. Which i am not.
Dreadful in Unexpected Ways.......2007-08-10
I read this book because I'm getting a Masters in writing YA fiction, and I know that this series is hot right now. I thought, Hey, it'll be a fun, guilty pleasure (which seems to be the publicist's catch phrase).
Wow, was I ever disappointed. It wasn't the drinking or the sex or the pot smoking, or even the utterly wretched ideals this book puts forth that shocked me: it was how incredibly dull the book was. I could hardly finish it. The characters aren't characters, they're just names. I found it difficult to tell them apart, since they had no personalities. The dialogue was pathetic, the plot was non-existent, and even the vices were boring and unoriginal. For a "story" about people who are supposed to be so interested in art and fashion, there was a shocking lack of actual style in this book, and the omnicient narrator was just irritating. Every time she signed off with, "You know you love me," I couldn't help rolling my eyes. I had quite a headache by the time I finished.
Luckily, the boredom put me right to sleep.
Customer Reviews:
Bookmom's Review - Clementine.......2007-10-01
[Fun: 5/5] [Learning: 3/5] [Suitable: 5/5]
Clementine is one of the freshest and funniest books for young readers that I've ever read. Similar to the Junie B. Jones series in the antics of the main character, this book provides a much more respectful and fun character than many of the alternatives. The main character, Clementine (frustrated over being named after a fruit), is a quirky and good natured-girl who means the best toward everyone around her, though her efforts don't always turn out the way she expects. Her apparent disrespect for authority at times is, unlike the Junie B. Jones character, unintentional. Clementine simply doesn't understand why some of her actions are not okay with adults, though this naivete and innocence makes her endearing to her readers. Clementine's parents are also great characters in this story, not simply being the strict disciplinarians you find in many children's books, but instead encouraging and trying to understand Clementine, only dishing out punishment when needed. This was a wonderful and very enjoyable read for all ages (even my pre-teen brother-in-law loved it!).
Audience:
* Young Readers (Grades 1-3)
Positive Themes:
* Encouragement and understanding from parents
* Good family values
Objectionable Content:
* One or two instances of disrespect toward authority, though unintentional
My Recommendations:
* Any of the other Clementine books (the third comes out in January 2008), as well as the Judy Moody series.
Bookmom - Get involved in your child's reading!
What a Cutie!.......2007-09-19
Today my 8yr old brought home her first batch of Scholastic book purchases of this academic year.
I was so excited for her, as she had bought her first Nancy Drew books ever!
Even before she could change out of her school uniform, I asked her to show me her stack of new books...and I grabbed at the Drew Mysteries instantly! :) But from the corner of my eyes...I found the cover of another book staring up at me. I turned to give it my full attention...and I instantly warmed up to the face peering at me, standing upside down :)
It was Clementine.
When I began reading page 1, I had no idea that I wouldn't put the book down until I'd finished reading it completely :)
I simply loved it!
Clementine brought back my childhood memories in a flash! :) I loved reading each page...each thought of hers...enjoying all her endeavors...no matter how disastrously funny!
I can't wait to dig into other Clementine books now! Sara Pennypacker...way to go girl! ;)
Yeah For Clementine!.......2007-07-19
I cannot say enough good things about Clementine. I would put it on my list of favorites of all time. It's Junie B. without so many of the grammar issues. It's Ramona but more modern. It's Judy Moody without the attitude. But no, it's Clementine.
She is very funny. She has some great made-up words, such as saying that Margaret always makes "I-wish" eyes about a bracelet she wants and how Clementine and her mother made "corner-eyes" at each other. She calls her brother vegetable names all through the book, because she doesn't think it is fair that she got a fruit name. But you know she loves him because she gives him spinning rides in her mother's wok.
The illustrations by Marla Frazee show off the playful, lively spirit of this girl and her family. The tone of the writing captures the language and thought process of a creative eight-year-old girl. The author also gives a fair treatment to Clementine's parents, who are both thrilled to have such an interesting child and frustrated by her mess-ups.
I haven't even told you the story, but I'm not sure it matters. An eight-year-old girl tries to help a friend with a little hair problem, but makes it worse. And then makes it worse still. And even yet again. Then she does something good by helping her father with his pigeon problems...
You know what? Just read it yourself. There is no way that you will regret it.
I know a Clementine - maybe several !!.......2007-03-18
When the review of Clementine appeared in Book Pages, I immediately put in a request with our library director to let me know when it arrived. It is a delightful and believable story based on my personal acquaintance with redheads ! No discrimination intended, no stereotypes referenced... However I am definitely recommending it to a friend who has a CLEMENTINE AND a LIMA BEAN, aka Spinach, Broccoli, etc !!
Clementine's parents handle her genuine intentional acts of mercy and compassion (vs. attention deficit disorderly conduct !) with wisdom and creativity. The author portrays Clementine as a very likeable little girl and far from mischievous or, heaven-forbid, naughty. The government school officials react in the usual manner and fail to see the delightful value in this compassionate and very bright little girl. Clementine's relationship with her friend Margaret is admirable and her respect for the adults in the story is noteworthy.
I enjoyed this little book immensely, and even read excerpts aloud to our Sunday afternoon family gathering made up of little grandchildren, young adult children, and older adults. There is enough humor in this charming story right up front and in between the lines to make it a entertaining read-aloud !!
Have fun with Clementine....She's a great little kid !
My daughter and I both laughed out loud........2007-02-28
This book is so funny. I gave it as gifts to 5 different nieces and friends in 1-3 grade. I love children's books, and this is one of my favorites. My daughter (age 8) and I fought over it for several days as we both tried to read it at the same time.
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- Trail of Tears
- Turbulent Years: The 60s (Our American Century)
- Undaunted Courage: Meriwether Lewis, Thomas Jefferson, and the Opening of the American West
- Victims of Progress
- WACK!: Art and the Feminist Revolution
- Warriors Don't Cry: Searing Memoir of Battle to Integrate Little Rock
- Where We Lived: Discovering the Places We Once Called Home
- Why Lenin? Why Stalin? Why Gorbachev?: The Rise and Fall of the Soviet System (3rd Edition)
- 90 Minutes in Heaven: A True Story of Death & Life
- A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature
Books Index
Books Home
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Suite Francaise
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