Austen Knows Best

Book Awards announced! (with my comments)

2012-01-23T09:54:00.002-07:00

Book awards have been announced. This is always an interesting and exciting time. At least for me a librarian and reader connected to youth lit. It's also interesting for me--as I try to keep up with what is being published in Children's and Teens--to see if I've read or am at least familiar with the books that won or were honorees. I'd say this year I was about 15% familiar. Maybe. (At least it

2012 Book Challenge

2012-01-07T21:46:00.000-07:00

For our 2012 Challenge, The Brambler and I decided to do categories instead of challenges by month. It frees us up to challenge ourselves in various categories, but not be forced to fit certain things within a month. Here are the categories:1. 10 Children's books2. 10 Juvenile Fiction books3. 10 Young Adult books4. 10 Nonfiction books5. 10 Classics6. 10 Church books7. 10 General Fiction published

The Last of the 2011 Challenges

2012-01-07T21:17:00.000-07:00

I was so busy at the end of the year that I never got around to updating my Book Challenges. So here are the totals for November, December, and the whole year. I also added my personal "Scrabble" challenge where I count Scrabble points for first letter of each title and author that I read. (Not including picture books.) November Totals Read a fun book Crossed by Ally Condie

October Book Challenge

2011-11-02T19:37:00.000-06:00

This is the least amount I've read all year! But two of those audio books were really long (10 hours & 20+ hours!) Not to mention I went on vacation and didn't have as much time to read, considering sleeping and having my books locked in a trunk of a car during a 4-hour car ride. Then there was all the time with friends. And making my Halloween costume. And, well, I guess I

September Book Challenge

2011-10-17T23:15:00.000-06:00

I know. I'm way behind in posting this. But it's finally here. It felt like I didn't get much read, but I think it's because I had some long books in there. Read a comic or manga Unshelved by Bill Barnes and Gene AmbaumWhat Would Dewey Do? by Bill Barnes and Gene AmbaumLibrary Mascot Cage Match by Bill Barnes and Gene AmbaumBook Club by Bill Barnes and Gene

Early Birthday Present

2011-09-20T18:51:00.000-06:00

I met Heather Dixon today!!! And she's just as awesome as I knew she was. Yes, I said "was" and not "would be." Because I've been stalking her blog for a few months now and I just knew she was awesome before meeting her. Actually, she's probably more than awesome. And I could tell I was right about another thing--we definitely would have been friends if we'd known each other in college!

GoAnimate! OK.

2011-09-06T19:15:00.001-06:00

I learned of a new site to try. It's an animator kind of site. The free account is extremely limited, giving you only a couple of scenes and a couple of characters to work with. But you get up to 10 lines of dialogue and it animates it for you. Which was funny to see how it turned out. I had no control over the voices and accents. Just what they said. It made my attempt at teens talking rather

That's Better

2011-09-03T17:36:00.000-06:00

But still not quite what I had envisioned back in March. I was granted the non-profit Animoto account. It allows me more choices in music and styles. Access to their photo and video collection (which I don't remember if they were available with a basic account). Ability to have longer videos. But I still have no control over the timing of the pictures shown. If I want them to go by fast, then

August Book Challenge

2011-08-31T21:27:00.000-06:00

Well, here was August. Not bad. It felt like a long month, and yet rushed because of all the Beehive books I was trying to read (including picture and poetry). Read a book from a summer reading list or from http://www.neh.gov/projects/summertimefavorites.html Much Ado about Nothing by William ShakespeareOur Town by Thornton WilderA Town Like Alice by Nevil Shute

Beehive Comic Ad

2011-08-30T20:24:00.000-06:00

I heard from some fellow librarians about another online comic maker. I decided to try a Book Ad with it instead of attempting to be funny. 'Cause failed attempts at funny are really pathetic. By MissHeidi84117 | View this Toon at ToonDoo | Create your own Toon My Opinion of ToonDoo: Not bad. It has a lot more choices in background and "props" than BitStrips. But--at least from as much as I

More! More! More!

2011-08-23T15:15:00.000-06:00

I have to share this fun with somebody! Think of it as you are my test audience before my presentation. Your comments let me know how I'm doing or if what I've created would be interesting to other librarians (in all settings). And if you don't think it's interesting, well..... I guess I'll be presenting some uninteresting stuff! I figured I should highlight Beehive books in what I'm creating,

More Tech Fun

2011-08-15T20:43:00.002-06:00

I'm preparing to present at a Fall Conference on Teen Tech stuff. So I'm researching (aka having fun!) figuring out some of the things out there. My friend let me know about Voki, which she and her teens tried out. So I had to give it a try. And boy what a laugh!!! Which do you prefer? (I love them both.) Voki 1 Voki 2 How can it help a librarian? Well... Always something fun in the

July Book Challenges

2011-08-01T11:37:00.000-06:00

There are so many places I would like to visit that it usually is not hard for me to find a book set where I would like to go. However, I'm trying to finish the Beehive nominees before school starts so the books are available for the students to read. Not to mention they are all due in August. So I've been plowing ahead with those, and then choosing the only audiobooks that were checked in that

Dear Kind Reader

2011-07-18T13:13:00.000-06:00

Please help me get ready for my final Teen Summer party! I'm trying to put together a Teen Feud based on this summer's theme (You are Here). The survey I have created should only take a couple of minutes of your time. The answers should be the first thing you think of, only one or two words in length. I'm hoping to get 100 responses, so if you know of others who would like to take it, that would

June Book Challenges

2011-07-02T09:03:00.000-06:00

Not a bad month for books or meeting the challenge. I couldn't go wrong in "something new" or "something borrowed." Believe it or not, my hardest challenge was "an old favorite." Because I feel I don't have time to get to all the new things I want and/or should read (I do have to keep up with books for work and not just pleasure purposes, after all). So, I typically avoid re-read. At least

I met...

2011-06-25T22:25:00.001-06:00

Ally Carter!!!!! I'm still jumping all over the place. Well, OK. Perhaps only mentally. I did, after all, still have to work today. But the excitement is still very much there. Because it's not just that I met a YA author. Because I've met (meaning actual "hello" and handshake) Stephenie Meyer Joan Bauer Shannon Hale All before I ever read their books. I'd never even heard of Bauer at the

My Attempt at S&S Thoughts

2011-06-24T13:32:00.004-06:00

1. The Dashwood women discuss Edward Ferrars for many pages before the reader actually meets him in a dramatic scene. Why do you think Austen chose to create the whole Elinor/Edward love affair "off stage"? I didn’t like it! This is why I had such a problem the first two times I read this book. I felt I didn’t really know Edward. I had to go off of what others said about him and not see him for

We have arrived in England.

2011-06-23T14:03:00.000-06:00

It's time!! I actually read the book this time around. I know. I'm shameless and for the last year and a half have picked books that I knew well enough I wouldn't have to re-read. But I was determined this time. And I did. Huge "Complete Works" book and all! I also had friends over to watch the 2008 film version. So, here are the questions. I collected them from a few online sources, too lazy or

May Book Challenges

2011-06-03T20:44:00.000-06:00

I balanced my Books and Blu-Ray much better this month. Enough so that this was my 2nd "most" month so far--2nd most # of books, 2nd most of pages, and 2nd most # of points. I think it made a difference that I came across some excellent reads this month. I've put an * among those I think others would find something of substance or great entertainment, and ** for those I

Sweet.

2011-06-01T23:10:00.000-06:00

I wasn't absolutely sure it was her--because they don't always look in person the way you see them in pictures and on TV. Still, we chatted books. She even gave me a couple of recommendations. Absolutely awesome: Today, I talked books with the prophet's daughter. And I loved that the Lord helps me see just how human and relatable our Church leaders are.

Finally Moving On

2011-05-30T03:05:00.000-06:00

It's almost 3 in the morning. And, yes, I'm awake. Kinda. Waiting to fall asleep any minute now. And, no, I was not a bad girl and stayed up all this time. I fell asleep around 9 or so, while reading Sister Oaks' A Single Voice and commemorating Memorial Day with a Ken Burns documentary. My falling asleep in no way reflects either of the two. I'm just a tired girl. Especially after another day of

Beehive Picture Book Update

2011-05-05T16:55:00.000-06:00

Well, the nice thing about this reading challenge is that the picture books make some of it a little fast. And what I read in the last hour has been brilliant! The Cow Loves Cookies by Karma Wilson Princess Hyacinth (the Surprising Tale of a Girl Who Floated) by Florence Heide City Dog, Country Frog by Mo Willems Spells by Emily Gravett Three more to go before I complete the Picture Books

Announcing....:

2011-05-05T15:38:00.001-06:00

I've just given myself a new Book Challenge. Why?! I know. But I really am trying to embrace my new library position and my new place of living and, well, you know. So, I'm going to try to read all of the 2012 Beehive nominees. (Recently announced among us co-workers.) And, no, I"m not re-reading anything I've already read. Here is the list, with books I've already read highlighted: Children

April Book Challenges

2011-05-03T10:48:00.000-06:00

I did manage to complete the challenge. I was in the middle of a couple of nonfiction books, but didn't get to finishing them in time. So one of the "marriage books" covered that. Here are the results: Read a book on marriage 1. Behind Every Good Man by John Bytheway2. An LDS Girl's Guide to Getting a Date by Brent Barlow Read two Nonfiction 1. Amelia

HG Trilogy - Character Recall

2011-05-02T17:33:00.001-06:00

At last! The very last part of our Hunger Games trilogy discussion. I was curious to what some of your opinions were concerning the characters—not just the main ones. So I found a list on Wikipedia (Further Character Info). It helped me in remembering some of the characters' parts in the trilogy. The following list follows the order given there, in case you need a reminder yourself. Feel free to

Hey all!

2011-04-30T10:49:00.000-06:00

I'm still alive! Quite busy and avoiding the computer when I get home (usually late) from work. But to show how sorry I am for not keeping up more regularly, I'm going to let you know about a cool Teen ARC giveaway over at one of the blogs on my "Library Blogroll." You should check it out! Who doesn't want free books? Especially advanced copies? Check it out here: http://

March Book Challenges

2011-04-07T22:24:00.000-06:00

I've had many requests to get my March books up. OK. I've had one. But no one else quite matters beyond that, so! Here you go: March Book Challenges Read a mystery Gingerbread Cookie Murder by Joanne Fluke The Case of the Missing Marquess by Nancy Springer The Case of the Left-Handed Lady by Nancy Springer The Case of the

All together now

2011-03-15T22:02:00.000-06:00

Hunger Games Trilogy 1. How is the society of Panem like others you have seen in movies or read in books?In my GoodReads review, I commented that the book "was a unique mix of 'The Lottery' (which I love) + 'The Most Dangerous Game' + 'Lord of the Flies' + '1984' with even a little 'Truman Show.'" Panem was a lot like the society in 1984. Confinement to social status and

Tweet Tweet...at Last!

2011-03-15T00:44:00.000-06:00

I decided to bite the bullet and push forward with the Hunger Games book discussion(s). I was rather abbreviated and can't believe I've already forgotten some things. But, I answered. Perhaps some of your comments will remind me of some of my thoughts and feelings--as well as the book. Or they may bring out what I'm trying to keep under control! :-) Mockingjay 1. What did

For my next tech task...

2011-03-11T16:18:00.001-07:00

I have to say, Animoto.com is not a happy thing to work with when you are trying to go the free route. They are so limiting! I had such visions of this book trailer and I how I wanted it to be. But I ended up having to cut about 20 of my photos out, and condense 15 text slides to 3 or 4. I had to choose one of their "backgrounds." And I was limited to their music selection since I was not at home

Me--in a Comic!

2011-03-07T20:45:00.001-07:00

More Tech fun tonight. One of the tasks I've given the teens is to create a comic strip using http://www.bitstrips.com/. My first impression (when I only had a few minutes to browse the sight) was not very favorable. It seemed so restrictive. But I had more time to play with it this evening. And had a lot more fun. Especially as I thought of something to work around the fact that they have

He wrote "Christine" a lot.

2011-03-03T17:04:00.000-07:00

My friend mentioned one of my favorite books on her blog recently. The Phantom of the Opera. So much better than the musical, though I do love the musical. And since I was creating my own Wordle for Teen Tech Month--and you know I love Wordles...turtles....--I thought I'd combine the two. And share it with you. I also did one for one of my favorite scenes in Northanger Abbey, but I forget

What the Seuss is That?

2011-03-02T10:14:00.000-07:00

Yes, everyone. It is the ever wonderful Dr. Seuss' birthday! I liked him before. Of course!. But now as a full-fledged Children's Librarian (for I have been for over a year now--yay!) I can appreciate and love Seuss even more!!! Thus, we are going to celebrate Dr. Seuss. (This would probably be a good time to be familiar with Seussical, don't you think? Oh well.) First, I shall post the Google

February Book Challenges

2011-02-28T18:41:00.000-07:00

Before I give you February's Book Challenge updates, let me just say that YES! I am still planning on finishing the Hunger Games trilogy in our AKB Book Club. I just need to be in the right frame of mind to answer the questions. If you've read the series, you may understand. OK. February Read a book about an animal1. The Black Stallion by Walter Farley - 10 points Read two nonfiction books1. A

30-Day Challenge...in One Post

2011-02-19T21:54:00.004-07:00

I saw this on someone's Facebook wall. And I was thinking what a neat idea. But I am impatient and don't want to go day by day. Plus, I'm honest with myself--I won't remember to do this every day! So I'm doing this now. And I figured this blog would be a fun place to do so, since a lot of my likes, loves, and gushings come forth here. I have altered a few of the challenges, because I don't see

Admission? Confession?

2011-02-08T11:07:00.001-07:00

I have to be honest and admit this. At first, I was furious that they were making a new Jane Eyre. I mean--you can't mess with perfection!!! *sigh* What? Oh, right. The 2007 version was the best version EVER. And I've seen about 5 or more. I would know. Every fan of the book agreed with me--this is the best. Every fan of the story agreed--this is the best. Every fan of just this movie agreed

January Book Challenges

2011-02-01T21:59:00.000-07:00

The Brambler was quite smart to post her month's challenges completed after the month, instead of waiting until the end of the year as I was thinking I'd do simply from habit. This will save having a ginormous post at the end of the month. January Read a book you've been meaning to read for a long time1. The River between Us by Richard Peck - 10 points2. Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney - 10

2011 Book Challenge

2011-01-29T15:04:00.001-07:00

This is the only Book Challenge that I am doing this year. At least, that is the plan. Sometimes I get too excited about challenges and go for them. And I really shouldn't this year. I already have plenty to do. Indeed, I've been so busy in the last few weeks and months, that wonderful Brambler knew this and came up with this year's challenge on her own. I think this is much more do-able without

2010 Book Challenge Wrap-Up Part 3

2011-01-29T14:58:00.000-07:00

The Grand Totals! Audio ChallengeGoal - 60Read - 71Met? - 118% Kids personal goal (including the picture books worth .1 point each)Goal - 350Read - 378Met? - 108% YA ChallengeGoal - 75Read - 85Met? - 113% Nonfiction personal goalGoal - 5Read - 6Met? - 120% 1st in Series ChallengeGoal - 12Read - 13Met? - 108% 2nd in Series ChallengeGoal - 20Read - 23Met? - 115% Finish that Series ChallengeGoal -

2010 Book Challenge Wrap-Up Part 2

2011-01-29T14:42:00.000-07:00

15 Points Categories: TitleAuthor 1) A book from the London Times' Best Books of the Decade list. (Can look at either http://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/262697-london-times-best-books-of-the-decadeReading Lolita in TehranAzar Nafisi or http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/books/book_reviews/article6914181.ece) 2) A book about scienceThe Universe-didn't get to

2010 Book Challenge Wrap-Up Part 1

2011-01-29T14:40:00.000-07:00

I figured it's about time I update how I did on the 2010 SnH Book Challenge. And because I found the flash drive I saved it on. And I feel I can't fully move on to the 2011 Challenge until this one is wrapped up. So, I'm just putting down which books (and authors) I read for each point category. Then give some totals. 5 Points Categories: TitleAuthor 1) Author to match everyletter of thealphabet(

Excuse the Mess

2011-01-18T13:56:00.002-07:00

Currently learning (aka playing around) about different blog designs and futures. Bear with me!!

Hunger Games Trilogy Answers - Part 2

2011-01-08T18:47:00.002-07:00

Catching Fire 1. What did you think about Gale and Katniss’ relationship after the games? In all honesty, I never liked Gale. I didn’t feel I knew him well enough from the first book, so I was rather irked that Katniss was upset with how he was acting at the beginning of Book 2. It’s probably just me, but I felt that if he’d had feelings before, he should have told her

Hunger Games Trilogy Answers - Part 1

2010-12-24T19:21:00.003-07:00

Hunger Games 1. What do you think is the cruelest part of the Hunger Games? I think the cruelest part is that citizens of Panem are required to watch as the kids hunt and kill each other. 2. Do you see any parallels between the Games and the society that condones them, and other related events and cultures in the history of the world? You know, I did at the time I was

Hungry for Some Hunger Games?

2010-12-08T20:22:00.004-07:00

I know. It took me forever to get these up. I was so eager to discuss this trilogy, and I'm already forgetting parts of the books! This only happens because I'm reading so much and so quickly. But I'm hoping you all will help me out here. If you don't see any thing you want to discuss, by all means please add on. These are just a few things that I thought would be interesting to discuss. I'll

An Award!

2010-11-22T18:30:00.004-07:00

I received a blog award from Christina T at Reading Extensively.Back in May.And she thought she was slow in passing it on! Ha ha. I've been terrible. But in all defense, I was in full swing of my new position with Summer Reading. That's a librarian term for "no other life possible."Yet I am now able to gratefully accept this blog award.Christina T gave me theKreativ(e?) Blogger Award.The "

The AKB Blog is...

2010-11-22T18:19:00.004-07:00

on the road!!I am taking a much-needed and well-deserved (I only say that because everyone at work said it....does that mean something?) vacation!And who better to visit than my most, uh, loyal (is that the word I want?) AKB blog reader and AKB Book Club participator. It's becoming a Thanksgiving tradition. And one I love!!!Where better to go than the home that feels like a second family, and a

Finish that Series Challenge 2010

2010-11-12T13:39:00.003-07:00

This is a new challenge on Royal Reviews. There are four levels:-- Curious – Finish 2 series.-- Fascinated – Finish 3 series.-- Addicted – Finish 5 series.-- Obsessed – Finish 10 series.My original goal: 10I'm not setting a new goal. This one was quite lofty, considering all of the books required to read in order to finish the series. I am going to list the series that I finished, along with

The 2nd Challenge 2010

2010-11-12T12:13:00.002-07:00

This challenge was originally on J. Kaye's Book Reviews and will now be hosted on Royal Reviews. (This is 2nd in a series or 2nd read of an author)There are four levels:-- Curious– Read 3 novels that are first in a series.-- Fascinated – Read 6 novels that are first in a series.-- Addicted – Read 12 novels that are first in a series.-- Obsessed – Read 20 novels that are first in a series.My

1st in a Series Challenge 2010

2010-11-12T10:26:00.007-07:00

This challenge was originally on J. Kaye's Book Reviews and will now be hosted on Royal Reviews.There are four levels:-- Curious– Read 3 novels that are first in a series.-- Fascinated – Read 6 novels that are first in a series.-- Addicted – Read 12 novels that are first in a series.-- Obsessed – Read 20 novels that are first in a series.My original goal: FascinatedMy new goal:

I've been a reading maniac

2010-11-12T10:13:00.003-07:00

Really.And I have way too many sitting on my "Checked Out from the Library" shelf which I know I will never finish before the end of the year. I mean--we're halfway through November on Monday!!! Where did my year go!?!?I still haven't any clue how I've managed to read as many books I have, especially considering my extreme busyness in and out of work AND my problem with print books.(Problem =

AKB Book Club Friend Post

2010-11-12T09:57:00.003-07:00

The Brambler's AnswersEC1. Who were your favorite characters?Favorite characters are Uncle Alec, Phebe and Mac.2. What morals did you agree with? Disagree with?I don't have the book in front of me, but I mostly really liked what Uncle Alec tried to teach Rose. Good health is eating well and exercising and not being self-indulgent. Serve others. Having advantages means responsibility. Etc...3.

Rose, Rose, Rose

2010-11-12T09:44:00.001-07:00

This blog’s most loyal reader—who happened to supply the questions for our current AKB book choice(s) has beaten me to the punch. She answered the questions before I was able to get around to me. Which told me I needed to get my back side in gear and answer the questions! Her answers are posted in a comment to the post with the questions. But I am going to post them as a guest post as well.As I

Back to America

2010-10-06T11:48:00.003-06:00

The AKB Book Club is officially pressing onward! For our next discussion, we will be dealing with two (count 'em: two) books!We are returning from the world of Bayern and journeying to the (nondescript) 19-Century American New England town in Eight Cousins by Louisa May Alcottand its sequel Rose in Bloom, also by Louisa May.These both come highly recommended by fellow AKB Book Clubber The

I've actually read them all!

2010-09-18T11:29:00.004-06:00

The S of the S'n'H 2010 Book Challenge posted an update on her progress. So, I figured I should post mine. It has been one crazy and busy summer, yet I still found time to read! (Or should I say listen?) I know you can see progress on the sidebars, which I find fun to keep up when I remember. But what's the point of the challenge if I don't share what I'm reading, right?Right. So, first, the

One Good Thing Come to an End. Next?

2010-08-27T20:28:00.002-06:00

Sorry about the hiatus. But Summer Reading has ended at last! (And am I ever taking the toll from it! But was a splendid summer it has been.)So I'm up for moving on to another book to discuss in the Austen Book Club.I still have the list from the previous poll, but I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions?

Goose, Part 5

2010-07-15T17:33:00.002-06:00

Whoa. Sorry about the huge break in there. Life went into a crazy overdrive in so many ways. So I'm spending my evening off (finally!) answering the rest of the questions, before move on to the work I brought home.7. What was your favorite “scene” in the book?There were a few that I really liked. Of course! I liked any time Geric and Isi where in the meadow together. But I also really liked the

Again! Again!

2010-06-29T14:04:00.002-06:00

Look to the left. I finished another Book Challenge! AND I'm at least halfway done with all the others (that someone else is sponsoring). *Phew!* I think that's good progress and timing, considering tomorrow marks half the year gone.But my word. It's getting tough. Especially with print books! I never have time. And if I actually find some, I fall asleep within a page or two. I'm just so

Goose, Part 4

2010-06-28T07:57:00.003-06:00

5. How did you feel about Falada?I know I've already mentioned some of this in answers. So, I thought the horse-speaking was a little far-fetched at first. But I was still "close" to the horse and had to keep from crying over his fate. When its head ended up on the gate, I thought, "What?!" It seemed too gruesome and far-fetched. So I researched and learned that part was in an older telling of

Goose, Part 3

2010-06-25T20:48:00.004-06:00

4. Because we love them so--OK, because I love them so--I saved Isi and Geric for their own question. What were your thoughts about Isi as the book progressed? What were your thoughts on Geric? Did you have your suspicions about him?I've been mentioning in previous answers already that as the book progressed, I loved Isi more. I loved going along with her as she found her confidence and strength,

Goose, Part 2

2010-06-23T22:28:00.002-06:00

3. In my opinion, there are so many well-written characters in this book. Ones you just love, and ones you just don’t. It’s one of the best things about the book! So let’s hear some of your thoughts on the following:Enna - I love Enna. She's fun, spunky, strong, and doesn't take anything from anyone. But some times she is just a bit too tough for me. I want to be strong and fun and spunky, but I

Goose, Part 1

2010-06-21T06:15:00.004-06:00

Just to warn/prepare you: Answering these might take just a little longer since Summer Reading begins today and I don't know how easy daily will be. We'll see. But wish me luck--I am so nervous!!!!1. What were your impressions of Ani/Isi in the first few chapters? Did you relate to her in any way?In the first few chapters, I didn't like Ani very much. Maybe one or two small things, but overall,

Not One Less

2010-06-18T12:57:00.002-06:00

Here's another Book Challenge clarification that I need.I don't count a series as a series unless there are at least 3 books. (So, yes, trilogies are series to me.)For my 1st in a Series Challenge: Am I allowed to count a book that is intended to be a series, but it is the only one written so far?I'm thinking that should be a no, if I want to uphold my Finish that Series Challenge agreement that

Duck, Duck, Goose!

2010-06-15T21:22:00.002-06:00

Sorry! Been so busy and then out of town. Nothing fancy with the questions again. Just...the questions. Hopefully I'll be able to start answering them by next week, and then you can join in the discussions! 1. What were your impressions of Ani/Isi in the first few chapters? Did you relate to her in any way? 2. Did you have suspicions about Selia before the trip began? 3. In

Cheers All Around!

2010-06-05T09:08:00.002-06:00

Look!Look, look, look!Over on the sidebar.Do you see it?I finished my first Book Challenge for the year!!! *whew* YAY!

Hill. Lair. Ee. Us.

2010-05-26T20:23:00.004-06:00

Enchanted Serenity discovered something wonderful on bookshop's livejournal, and shared it on her blog. Thus, I was able to discover this gem for all Austen lovers. (Wait for a couple of them--it takes some time for them to work completely.) Clever. Enjoyable. And out and out uproarious. A little taste to whet your appetite:Pride & Prejudice: a drama in triple i parts, as told by Yahoo!Emoticons

For Serene...and Others: More Than You (Didn't) Ask For

2010-05-21T20:23:00.007-06:00

Serene let me know that she wasn't aware of Josh. And there are so many who don't. Can you see why the world has need of me?! :-) I thought, if she wasn't aware of Josh before now, some of the rest of you might not be either! Well--I had to remedy that! Of course. Fully ready to inundate you.So here I go in introducing you--or feeding you more--in The Joy of Josh. And I'm pretty sure if you

A Love Story

2010-05-20T14:15:00.003-06:00

Mona at Mona's Musings mentioned writing our own love story, and it put me in mind of this entry I wrote on another blog on August 28, 2008 (Josh Day).My Josh: A Love Story I do not like fads. It is a well-known fact about me. I was the girl who refused to fall for the Harry Potter craze and said I wouldn't read the series until all 7 were published. True to my word, I waited until last fall. I

Look at What I Learned to Do!

2010-05-19T20:56:00.004-06:00

I've just learned a nifty thing I can do when embedding a YouTube video: I can start you right at the spot that I want you to see, instead of making you watch the few minutes that are all right, but not what I want you to see right then.And I just had to try it out!So I thought I would link you to my absolutely favorite line out of all 3 seasons of my recent Period Drama discovery and hence

AKB Book Club, Moving On

2010-05-17T18:18:00.004-06:00

It is most definitely time to move on from our visit with the everlasting Tucks. And we shall most definitely move on to a book that I remember better/have read more recently. I thought we might delve a bit more into the fantasy and visit a world that doesn't exist on this earth. Plus, my good reading friend is going through the whole series (probably will be done with it by tomorrow!), and I

Tuck Answers, Part 7

2010-05-17T06:20:00.003-06:00

What do you think about Jesse's offer to Winnie?It's understandable on his part. But it's also a little "How could you ask that?!" What if she did drink the water and the two of them were not each other's best friend? To doom her to a life of eternity that might not be happiest spent with him? And at the age of 16? Heavens, if you had to drink the water but you had a choice in age, don't make it

Austen Heroine Quizzes

2010-05-16T21:24:00.004-06:00

All right. It's time this Austen blog did something Austen again. Been a little too long since then, wouldn't you agree. I noticed this on Enchanted Serenity, so I took the quiz to see my results. Take the Quiz here!Further description:You are Anne Elliot of Persuasion! Let's face it; you're easily persuaded, particularly when friends and relatives try to use "the Elliot way" against you. But

Tuck Answers, Part 6

2010-05-15T21:14:00.002-06:00

Did you have any suspicions about the man in the yellow suit?When I read this as a 5th grader, I don't think I did. I probably didn't have the most suspicious nature. The only reason I don't think I suspected anything is because I forgot about him until I saw the movie adaptation! And then? Yes, the movie made me very suspicious of him.What are your thoughts on living forever?Well, I do believe

Tuck Answers, Part 5

2010-05-14T07:08:00.003-06:00

Have you seen the movie? What were your impressions of the adaptation?I have seen the movie. I owned it for a time. As a stand-alone movie, I really liked it. It seemed so magical and yet still conveyed the importance that one should not "go against nature." Ben Kingsley did very well as the yellow suit guy. Cissy Spacek was a good Ma Tuck. I'm not the biggest fan of William Hurt in anything, but

Tuck Answers, Part 4

2010-05-13T17:44:00.002-06:00

Would you want to look like you do now when you are 87?No way. I want the respect people (generally) give people in older age. If I looked as I do now, no one would know I'm old! I don't fear age. Of course, there are plenty of ways I hope I don't end up looking like. But looking 27 when I am 87 and feel older? Nah. I'll pass. What is the role of women in the text?Winnie is the temptress and the

Tuck Answers, Part 3

2010-05-12T16:49:00.003-06:00

Have you ever been homesick? How did you feel? Would you have considered Winnie was homesick?I have most definitely been homesick! In fact, right now I am in a neverending state of homesickness. When one does not know where home is, and/or what to call home, it is hard to feel at home somewhere. You long for what "used to be" or "how things were," but you know they are no longer and can never be

Tuck Answers, Part 2

2010-05-11T11:14:00.002-06:00

3. What is your reaction to the Tucks' home? Is it a place you would like to be?I remember liking the Tucks' home. It seemed, uh, homey. Memory tells me that I thought of it as a place where one could definitely feel love. But it has been so long since I read it that maybe I wrote that into my memories. Well, at least I know I want a home where love abides.4. Imagine if the story had been at

Tuck Answers, Part 1

2010-05-10T06:35:00.002-06:00

What are the conflicts in Tuck Everlasting? Uh, well, there's the whole "Should one live forever in this life?" And the creepy man in the yellow suit--he's a conflict in himself! And there's the stifling nature of Winnie's life.What are some symbols in Tuck Everlasting? I will not answer this question, because it is too like the questions they asked us in school. I haven't read the book in some

Tuck Questions!

2010-05-03T06:51:00.002-06:00

I'm totally copping out on this round of questions:-No quotes with each question--sorry my copy is packed up and in another apartment and I didn't want to wait until I could obtain a library copy.-Many of them based on questions I found.-Not the most wow or fun questions to answer.But, there are questions! So in a week I'll begin answering them a couple at a time. Please send along your own

Sunshine...on my shoulders!

2010-05-01T05:34:00.016-06:00

I've received an award! From my dear, dear friend at Jest Kept Secret. She's totally awesome. You should check her out. I mean, you should check out her blog. (Although if you are male, single, LDS, and awesome, then you should check her out, too!) Self-Promotional Moment: She, another friend of ours that she also gave this award to, and myself are co-conspirators at The Thursday Chronicles (a

"My One Weakness"

2010-04-21T21:16:00.001-06:00

[from my LDS blog today]Day 111-observing interactions and relationships which help me reflect upon and learn from my own-simplicity in life and knowing what is worthy and worthwhile-honest, true values shown to be important and worth having-happiness in marriage portrayed to be important, worth having, and possible-observing a good example of a strong, happy marriage at work-spending a lengthy

On Down to America

2010-04-19T06:45:00.003-06:00

Well, I had a marvelous time on Mistawis Island up back in Canadian country. I hope you all did, too. And answering a few questions at a time was perfect! Time-wise, comment-wise, and simply fun-wise. So, we're going to be off on to our next destination. I was struggling to think of where to go, as all of my favorite fiction books in my collection are no longer where I reside. Not that I can't

Blue Castle Questions, Last Part

2010-04-14T18:28:00.002-06:00

“You see—I’ve never had any real life,” she said. “I’ve just—breathed. Every door has always been shut to me.”How do you relate to Valancy?I'm half and half. Some times or situations I completely understand how she is feeling, or what she is thinking. Times when I feel just as suffocated, hurt, hopeless, sad, angry, passed over, desperate, and much more. But then there are the times or situations

Blue Castle Questions, Part 8

2010-04-13T11:25:00.003-06:00

“You’re—a good actor, Barney.”What do you think of Barney’s “confession” scene? I love reading that. I read it over and over. Well, OK. I might skip a little on the whole Ehtel story--though I do feel like kissing him, too, when he's confessing that sorrowful past. My favorite of that favorite part is near the end when he has confessed and Valancy still can't believe he feels anything but pity

Blue Castle Questions, Part 7

2010-04-12T06:00:00.003-06:00

“I have things I want to hide,” said Barney coolly. “You are not to ask me about them.”Did you guess any of Barney’s secrets before Valancy learned them?I confess I did wonder about John Foster, when he expressed such (to me) unreasonable dislike for the guy. I never once believed that Barney was a murderer or doing anything bad. I just couldn't believe that of him. But being the son of Dr.

Blue Castle Questions, Part 6

2010-04-10T11:13:00.002-06:00

“Yes. I noticed that. But I thought it was a mistake.”Did you notice Dr. Trent’s mistake?Nope. Not at all. I had to flip back in the book to see that there was a mistake. I guess the editor switch in me had not quite been turned on, yet. A year of misery!Did you wonder about Valancy’s condition during her year of marriage?Again, nope. It seemed like such a background thing and I only thought on

Blue Castle Questions, Part 5

2010-04-09T09:14:00.004-06:00

Thirty seconds can be very long sometimes.Describe your feelings when Valancy’s shoe is stuck in the railroad track.I felt just as frantic as she did--scared, worried for Barney, desperate. I love suspenseful parts in stories like that. And, the first time I read it, it had seemed so unexpected. I don't remember any other L.M. Montgomery work having such a pressing, immediate danger situation.

Blue Castle Questions, Part 4

2010-04-08T05:46:00.001-06:00

Valancy looked—and looked—and looked again.Describe your mental image of The Blue Castle.That is a tough one. Every girl has her a Blue Castle. Me? I have two. The one I have created from this book and the one I has created in my own life. The one I see in the book was a sweet little cottage set high up on a tiny island. Funny, sometimes I actually see it as blue! And even sometimes see a 2-3

Blue Castle Questions, Part 3

2010-04-07T05:25:00.002-06:00

Valancy gave him a swift, furtive look as she hurried by.What were your first impressions of Barney Snaith?I loved that he was working on his car. I guess the manliness of it all, I don't know. And that he was different from everyone introduced in the story so far. And that there was a mystery about him. And that you knew right off he was his own man. There were definite things attractive about

Blue Castle Questions, Part 2

2010-04-06T19:38:00.003-06:00

Dr. Trent’s letter was like himself—blunt, abrupt, concise, wasting no words.How would you have felt if you received Valancy’s diagnosis? What would you have done?I have a two-part answer to this. When I was younger and I read this, I completely agreed with her. I was so glad she finally found something to make her get a bit more spine and stand up to the unfairness that her family brought into

Blue Castle Questions, Part 1

2010-04-05T06:09:00.003-06:00

I have decided that it will always be difficult for me to find large chunks of time to devote to the Austen Knows Best Book Club. So I'm going to try smaller chunks. Yes. I am re-doing a bit of the running of the Book Club. But I don't think any of you will really mind. We'll still read and talk about books. Of course! And there will still be questions to think about and answer. But this time I

Blue, Blue, Blue

2010-03-22T07:22:00.002-06:00

Here you go! Questions for L.M. Montgomery's The Blue Castle. Just because I know I am busy and assume you all are, too, I'll give us two weeks to answer. So either send them to me via email (link on left sidebar) or via comment. Have fun!!!Valancy wakened early, in the lifeless, hopeless hour just proceeding dawn. How did you feel about Valancy’s situation at the beginning

Sense and Silliness

2010-03-21T21:12:00.002-06:00

[I deemed this rather pertinent to the Austen blog, and possibly enjoyable to my Janeite readers. From my LDS blog today]:Day 80While I love the movie as a whole, somehow in my first watching I missed how absolutely fantastic this scene of the new Emma is. Especially at 42 seconds. Priceless!!!!! (And when you break it down to the morals being discussed, yes. Mr. Knightley has every right to be

Le Fin

2010-03-20T19:39:00.003-06:00

I need another opinion. As you can tell by the sidebar, I'm involved in quite a few challenges. How I'm finding time to read, I don't honestly know. But reading I am.One challenge that I was particularly intrigued to work on--and would require almost double the reading in some cases--was the "Finish that Series!" challenge. As I thought I'd try to get some of my YA Challenge with that, I decided

A Love (& Hate) Story

2010-03-18T18:59:00.003-06:00

Two weeks ago, the ever wonderful Charleybrown at Enchanted Serenity yet again made me aware of something across the pond that I wouldn't have heard anything of for many months.First off, may I preface with how much I adore the book The Phantom of the Opera. It is one of my favorites. In the top 5. The musical? Well, I do love much of it. (And not love some of it.) And it is, of course, very well

Just a little longer

2010-03-15T07:22:00.003-06:00

The weekend was busy. Biz. Zy. And I am just now waking up on my Monday morning off, still feeling like I need a little more recovery time. Plus, I need to finish doing my taxes and would like to take care of that for the one hour I have left.So, I don't have any questions for the AKB Book Club ready. I'm hoping to work on them this week. Until then, keep reading about Valancy and Barney. I never

Interesting Nifty Facts of a Janeite

2010-03-12T14:13:00.000-07:00

[from my online journal today]I just took a personality test. The part of me interested in psychology likes those tests and their results--about me and about my friends and family.My father did all sorts of these kinds of test on us kids when we were growing up. So I've known various things about various things. Still, each test result is always interesting to me. Your Type

For Our Next Stop

2010-03-08T05:58:00.003-07:00

We need a new book for the AKB Book Club, don't you think? As much as I love Ella, and have enjoyed thinking for a month about how I should answer my own questions, I do believe it is time to leave Kyrria.Definitely time.And our next book to visit will be...O Joy of Joys... The Blue Castle!Yes, I'm in the mood for another L.M. Montgomery, particularly a hopeless romantic love story. And as I find

Another year past

2010-03-07T21:15:00.001-07:00

[from my LDS blog today]Day 66Yes. I have another gratitude for another vanity of mine.I try not to get too attached to it, for fear that one day I'll lose it all. But if I ever do, I will have had the many wonderful years with the glorious (curly!) hair that Heavenly Father has blessed me with.Exactly a year ago, I said good-bye to my hair in my second time to donate it. I like being able to

Which is Worse?

2010-03-06T18:43:00.002-07:00

My desk after only 2 weeks as the new Children's Librarian-or-My bed after an afternoon of enjoyable R&R (reading, movie watching, yarn doll making, eating...)?????I vote for Option 1.