Fashion Meets Comics: Dr. Jane Foster

Dr. Jane Foster's look is casual with unexpected layers that some how mash-up into a completely fresh and cute outfit.

She takes low key pieces and turn them into anything but a simple look. Although fashion may take a back burner to her love of science, Jane does manage to pull off a look that's all her own.

Here is a Jane inspired outfit I put together:

Nonfiction Read-a-Thon book #4: Always in Fashion

I wanted to read this book to see what information I could learn from the author. Fashion is a huge business, whether its affordable items or luxury designer pieces someone is making a career out of it. And I thought it would be interesting to see what the author has to say about the industry.

Hopefully this will be a good read.


Book: Always in Fashion: From Clerk to CEO -- Lessons for Success in Business and in Life by Mark Weber

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Publisher: McGraw-Hill Professional

Description:

Fashion industry icon Mark Weber reveals the secrets to building a successful career in one of the world's most fascinating businesses

In Always in Fashion, Weber weaves the fascinating story of his rise to the top of the fashion and luxury goods industries with practical advice for anyone in any creative industry.

Written for both those just starting out as well as people with established careers, Always in Fashion explains all the ins and outs readers need to know the launch themselves to the top, including ways to stand out from their co-workers; handle publicity--both good and bad; manage global brands and succeed in a global marketplace; and lead a company through change.

Mark Weber began his career at Phillips-Van Heusen Corporation (PVH), becoming president, board member and CEO. He joined LVMH in 2006 as Chairman and CEO of Donna Karan International Inc., where until 2014, he led the growth of the Donna Karan and DKNY brands in emerging markets, notably China and India. Weber currently consults to LVMH.

Currently Reading for A-Z Title Challenge: Robin issue #1

I like all the Robins (except for Carrie Kelley, she's my least favorite) and for the A-Z Title Challenge I couldn't pass up reading an issue of Robin even if I have to dig through a box to get it out. This is Tim Drake's first issue as Robin.  

By the way the digital comic for this is currently free and available for Kindle, Nook and Comixology.


Book: Robin issue #1 by Chuck Dixon with illustrations by Tom Grummett, inks by Scott Hanna and color by Adrienne Roy

Edition: Single print issue

Description:

Out of the Batcave and off on his own, the Boy Wonder Tim Drake attempts to get on with a normal life, even so far as going on a date with a lovely lady. But when carjacking gang the Speedboyz show up, it looks like it's no rest for Robin just yet.

Art of the Day: Ms. Marvel (Kamala Khan)

Artwork: All-New Ms. Marvel by JPRart

Book Review for the Nonfiction Read-a-Thon book #3: Let's Just Say It Wasn't Pretty

Book: Let's Just Say It Wasn't Pretty by Diane Keaton

Source: Library

Rating: 1 star

Review:

I still think Diane Keaton is a good actress however this books wasn't very good. It's dull and boring and very scattered.

Let's Just Say It Wasn't Pretty is a compilation of essays that don't seem to have much focus and sometimes appears really incoherent. The author's voice and story telling rambles a lot, there were some interesting things shown in here but it's drowned out by all the babble.

Reading this feels like I some how stumbled upon the author's journal because it's filled with a lot of inner monologue, drivel and a lot of other things that just don't seem as if they should be shown. Don't get me wrong there are some touching moments in the book when she's talking about her family but mostly everything in this book feels like a huge waste of time to read.

She described everything from her childhood to her hits and misses in life and in Hollywood. Her feeling about aging, her hair, her desire to keep buying and remodeling houses and a multitude of other nonsensical things.

I heard that her book Then Again is a good read perhaps I'll think about reading that one since this one was so disappointing.

Illustration of the Day: Booster Gold, Martian Manhunter and Blue Beetle

Illustration: Manhunter's First Sushi by theunbrilliant

Books of Interest: The Jumbies and You're Never Weird on the Internet (Almost)

Here are two books that I'm really interested in reading: The Jumbies, a spooky fantasy adventure and You're Never Weird on the Internet (Almost), a memoir from a fun loving geek.

I'm always on the lookout for interesting books and these two have spark my interest.

Book: The Jumbies by Tracey Baptiste

Description:

Corinne La Mer isn’t afraid of anything. Not scorpions, not the boys who tease her, and certainly not jumbies. She knows that jumbies aren’t real; they’re just creatures parents make up to frighten their children. But on All Hallows’ Eve, Corinne chases an agouti all the way into the forbidden woods. Those shining yellow eyes that follow her to the edge of the trees, they couldn’t belong to a jumbie. Or could they?

Corinne begins to notice odd occurrences after that night. First she spots a beautiful stranger speaking to the town witch at the market. Then this same beauty, called Severine, turns up at Corinne’s house, cooking dinner for her father. Danger is in the air. Sure enough, bewitching Corinne’s father is the first step in Severine’s plan to claim the entire island for the jumbies. Corinne must call on her courage and her friends and ancient magic to stop Severine and to save her island home.

Book: You're Never Weird on the Internet (Almost): A Memoir by Felicia Day

Publication: August 11, 2015

Description:

From online entertainment mogul, actress, and “queen of the geeks” Felicia Day comes a funny, quirky, and inspiring memoir about her unusual upbringing, her rise to Internet-stardom, and embracing her individuality to find success in Hollywood.

The Internet isn’t all cat videos. There’s also Felicia Day—violinist, filmmaker, Internet entrepreneur, compulsive gamer, hoagie specialist, and former lonely homeschooled girl who overcame her isolated childhood to become the ruler of a new world…or at least semi-influential in the world of Internet geeks and Goodreads book clubs.

After growing up in the south where she was “homeschooled for hippie reasons,” Felicia moved to Hollywood to pursue her dream of becoming an actress and was immediately typecast as a crazy cat-lady secretary. But Felicia’s misadventures in Hollywood led her to produce her own web series, own her own production company, and become an Internet star.

Felicia’s short-ish life and her rags-to-riches rise to Internet fame launched her career as one of the most influential creators in new media. Now, Felicia’s strange world is filled with thoughts on creativity, video games, and a dash of mild feminist activism—just like her memoir.

Hilarious and inspirational, You’re Never Weird on the Internet (Almost) is proof that everyone should embrace what makes them different and be brave enough to share it with the world, because anything is possible now—even for a digital misfit.

Fashion Meets Comics: Supergirl T-Shirt (New 52)

Can you believe it, I got yet another superhero T-shirt. I ordered this Supergirl Graphic Tee from Target over the Memorial Day Weekend and it showed up this morning in the mail.

This is cute and I like how sparkly the Supergirl name is. On this shirt she is shown wearing her New 52 suit.

Side Note: This is a kids shirt and the sizes range from 4-16.

Art of the Day: Naruto and Sakura

Artwork: NaruSaku: Sage Romance by MuseSilver

Book of Interest: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone: The Illustrated Edition

It's not as if I don't already have a set of the hardcover books but I think this would be cool. It's the complete story but it will include illustrations throughout the book. Despite the description, it's not a comic book but artwork added in.


Book: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone: The Illustrated Edition (Harry Potter book #1) by J.K. Rowling with illustrations by Jim Kay

Publication: October 6, 2015

Description:

For the first time, J. K. Rowling's beloved Harry Potter books will be presented in lavishly illustrated full-color editions. Kate Greenaway-award winning artist Jim Kay has created over 100 stunning illustrations, making this deluxe format a perfect gift as much for a child being introduced to the series, as for the dedicated fan. Book one, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, is publishing on October 6, 2015.

Harry Potter has never been the star of a Quidditch team, scoring points while riding a broom far above the ground. He knows no spells, has never helped to hatch a dragon, and has never worn a cloak of invisibility.

All he knows is a miserable life with the Dursleys, his horrible aunt and uncle, and their abominable son, Dudley -- a great big swollen spoiled bully. Harry's room is a tiny closet at the foot of the stairs, and he hasn't had a birthday party in eleven years.

But all that is about to change when a mysterious letter arrives by owl messenger: a letter with an invitation to an incredible place that Harry -- and anyone who reads about him -- will find unforgettable.

Book Review for A-Z Title Challenge: QQ Sweeper vol #1

Book: QQ Sweeper volume #1 (chapters #1-5) by Kyousuke Motomi

Rating: 3 1/2 stars

Review:

Who knew cleaning was more than just for keeping your home tidy?

The first volume focused on new transfer student Fumi Nishioka. When she was found sleeping in the old part of campus (which was said to be haunted) she ended up meeting Kyutarou Horikita, a fellow classmate. Kyutarou isn't just a regular student he's part of a secret cleaning organization that help keep away ghostly parasites.

But there is something mysterious about Fumi because she was able to see a hidden door that allowed her to help another classmate Sakaguchi who was in need of help. However, as she traveled through the door she found herself somewhere she never thought possible, a supernatural portal that allowed her to see inside the heart of Sakaguchi. He was being tormented by a parasite. She was surprised when Kyutarou showed up, he had went there to help her but surprisingly she had to help him out. 

With that task taken care of, Fumi in need of both a job and a place to stay was offered not only a job as a housekeeper for the Horkita family but also to be Kyutarou's assistant for the cleaning organization.

There was still more work the duo had to do for Sakaguchi, they removed the parasites that were infecting him but they also needed to clean his room. Sakaguchi's problems stemmed from him being cut from the baseball team, which made it easier for the parasites to attack.

The first volume ends with a cliffhanger with the Chairman of the school possibly looking into Fumi's background to find out more about her.

This was a fun and interesting story with Fumi finding more than she bargained for when she met Kyutarou. She's also a little kooky because her goal in life is to marry a rich man but I'm hoping as the story continues she finds another goal.

Carrie Bradshaw: Why Fashion Doesn't Need To Be Taken So Seriously

I love fashion just as much as I love books however there is no one who loves fashion more than Carrie Bradshaw (Sex and the City). What I love is that she didn't take fashion so seriously, she was creative in what she wore. The character was shown wearing just about any and everything and made it work because she had fun with fashion.

Which is why I also love watching The Carrie Diaries (despite it being cancelled) because although she was younger she still had that whimsical way of dressing. Carrie was still in the process of finding herself yet you could see the start of her foray into fashion. She was experimenting with different looks and trying new things, some worked but some didn't.

The Carrie Diaries got a lot flack from fans for not staying true to Sex and the City but I saw it for what it was. It was based on the books by Candace Bushnell of the same name instead of the hit HBO series which is also based on the book Sex and the City by Candace Bushnell.

Everyone has their own sense of fashion and I have noticed that you can tell the difference between someone who is confident in their own style and someone who is trying to emulate others. The latter is trying too hard to be like someone else instead of being themselves and it shows.

What I take away from Carrie is just to have fun with fashion and don't be afraid to try something different. But most importantly is to be yourself.

Nonfiction Read-a-Thon book #3: Let's Just Say It Wasn't Pretty

I've seen quite a few of Diane Keaton's movies such as Because I Said So, The Other Sister, The First Wives Club, and the Father of the Bride movies just to name a few. So when I saw the book at the library I thought hey why not. It might be an interesting read.


Book: Let's Just Say It Wasn't Pretty by Diane Keaton

Source: Library

Description:

From Academy Award–winner and bestselling author Diane Keaton comes a candid, hilarious, and deeply affecting look at beauty, aging, and the importance of staying true to yourself—no matter what anyone else thinks.

Diane Keaton has spent a lifetime coloring outside the lines of the conventional notion of beauty. In Let's Just Say It Wasn't Pretty, she shares the wisdom she's accumulated through the years as a mother, daughter, actress, artist, and international style icon. This is a book only Diane Keaton could write—a smart and funny chronicle of the ups and downs of living and working in a world obsessed with beauty.

In her one-of-a-kind voice, Keaton offers up a message of empowerment for anyone who's ever dreamed of kicking back against the "should"s and "supposed to"s that undermine our pursuit of beauty in all its forms. From a mortifying encounter with a makeup artist who tells her she needs to get her eyes fixed to an awkward excursion to Victoria's Secret with her teenage daughter, Keaton shares funny and not-so-funny moments from her life in and out of the public eye.

For Diane Keaton, being beautiful starts with being true to who you are, and in this book she also offers self-knowing commentary on the bold personal choices she's made through the years: the wide-brimmed hats, outrageous shoes, and all-weather turtlenecks that have made her an inspiration to anyone who cherishes truly individual style—and catnip to paparazzi worldwide. She recounts her experiences with the many men in her life—including Warren Beatty, Jack Nicholson, Al Pacino, and Sam Shepard—shows how our ideals of beauty change as we age, and explains why a life well lived may be the most beautiful thing of all.

Wryly observant and as fiercely original as Diane Keaton herself, Let's Just Say It Wasn't Pretty is a head-turner of a book that holds up a mirror to our beauty obsessions—and encourages us to like what we see.

Illustration of the Day: Superman and Power Girl (JL8)

Illustration: JL8 #4 by Yale Stewart

Poor Clark, he's simply terrified that Power Girl (who by the way is his cousin) is flirting with him.

Book Review for the Nonfiction Read-a-thon book #2: The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl

Book: The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl by Issa Rae

Source: Library

Rating: 4 1/2 stars

Review:

I'm always amazed when I read memoirs or nonfiction books that the authors reveal so much of their lives. In The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl the essays featured were a mixture of drama and humor as the author described her life, from her childhood into her twenties. She described her attempts at trying to be cool, dealing with overprotective parents to the divorce of her parents and finally just being comfortable being herself. She's awkward and is now perfectly okay with it.

Throughout the book, you get a good sense that her younger self was trying so hard to be cool that she failed to see how her actions were going to backfire and many did. She detailed how the impact of her parents' divorce was also affecting how she viewed her own love life and how she was able to reconcile with it. 

She also described growing up in the United States and in Senegal (where her father is from) and some of the cultural differences.

This was a fast moving very interesting look at the author's life as she finally figured out who she was and accepted it.

Art of the Day: A Rainy Day

Artwork: Rainy Day by Spirosart (Dmitri Spiros)

This is absolutely beautiful. It's something I could see being in a museum.

Currently Reading: At Home in Last Chance and Batman vol #1 (New 52)

Since I'm nearly finished with "The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl", I figured I would post my new reads.

Book: At Home in Last Chance (A Place to Call Home book #3) by Cathleen Armstrong

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Publisher: Revell

Description:

Kaitlyn Reed and Steven Braden have always had a similar philosophy of life: when the going gets tough, they get going--out of town and away from the problem. Now they are both back in Last Chance, New Mexico, and trying to start over. Kaitlyn is working to reestablish a relationship with the seven-year-old daughter she left behind six months earlier. Steven is trying to prove to his family that he is not the irresponsible charmer they have always known him to be. As Kaitlyn and Steven find themselves drawn to one another, one big question keeps getting in the way: How will they learn to trust each other when they don't even trust themselves?

With emotional depth and characters who leap off the page and into the reader's psyche, Cathleen Armstrong continues to delight her readers and win new fans. Readers will be thrilled to return once more to the small town they've grown to love.

Book: Batman volume #1: The Court of Owls (issues #1-7) by Scott Snyder with illustrations by Greg Capullo with ink by Jonathan Glapion color FCO Plascencia

Edition: Single print issues

Publisher: DC Comics

Description:

After a series of brutal murders rocks Gotham City, Batman begins to realize that perhaps these crimes go far deeper than appearances suggest. As the Caped Crusader begins to unravel this deadly mystery, he discovers a conspiracy going back to his youth and beyond to the origins of the city he's sworn to protect. Could the Court of Owls, once thought to be nothing more than an urban legend, be behind the crime and corruption? Or is Bruce Wayne losing his grip on sanity and falling prey to the pressures of his war on crime?

Art Finds from the DIA: Fashion Meets Art with a Frida Kahlo T-Shirt and a Superman Wallet

I don't know if everyone knows but I love going to the museum and checking out all the exhibits but also to check out the gift shop. And when I have some time, I love to search various museum websites to see what they have in their online gift shops.

I recently had a bright idea to start a new post called Art Finds where I will post fun, unique and interesting items from museum gifts shops. So for my first post, I found two fashionable items from the Detroit Institute of Arts Museum.

Frida Kahlo Neon Juniors T-Shirt   $28.00   Detroit Institute of Arts Museum (dia.org)

This is a really cute Frida Kahlo T-Shirt. It's available in basic white but what I love the most are the bright neon colors. The bright colors make the shirt standout more. Side note: There is a Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo exhibit at the DIA running until July 12th.

Mighty Wallet Superman by Dynomighty   $15.00   Detroit Institute of Arts Museum (dia.org)

You guys know I love comics and I always find it interesting that you can now find superhero stuff just about anywhere. Case in point this Superman wallet, like the character it's bright and colorful and according to the description durable. As much as I like this, I do wish there was something with Lois Lane on it. Maybe, I'll contact the museum and ask them.

Any way the description states that inside the wallet you see Clark transform into Superman.  It's tear-resistant, water-resistant, expandable and recyclable. Made from Tyvek which resist tearing due to the thousands of interlocking plastic fibers spun in random patterns, giving it incredible strength.

The wallet includes:

2 large pockets for cash and receipts
2 credit card pockets that expand to hold lots of cards
2 quick access business card pockets
4 writable Tyvek business cards included

I Want a Jubilee TV series!

Artwork: cover art for X-Men issue #14

Jubilee would be perfect to turn into a TV series. She's an amazing character and gives you so many things to work with such as being a mutant, a vampire and a mother. And not to mention how many Asian superheroes do you see in the media, not very many. With Jubilee she has connections to so many different characters and I could see cameos by X-23, Wolverine, Storm, Black Widow just to name a few. But connections aside, she's a great character in her own right, she has a rich comic book history and just a fun character.

Marvel, Disney, ABC can one of you Please create a TV series for Jubilee.

Do you think Jubilee would make a good series? Let me know.

Comic Book News: Static Shock, Spider-Man & Mary Jane Watson, Grumpy Cat and more

- It's been announced that actor Jaden Smith will be portraying Virgil Hawkins a.k.a. Static in an upcoming Static Shock project, it's been reported to be a web series.


- The variant cover for the upcoming The Amazing Spider-Man: Renew Your Vows has been released.

The cover is by artist J. Scott Campbell and the series will be in comic book stores July 29th. According to reports, the Secret War series will focus on a part of the universe where Peter Parker and Mary Jane Watson's marriage was never dissolved. They also have a daughter that they are raising. The series will be written by Dan Slott with art by Adam Kubert.


- The hugely popular Grumpy Cat will be starring in her own comic book series. The series titled The Misadventures of Grumpy Cat and Pokey will be published by Dynamite Entertainment. The three issue miniseries will available this fall.


- Marvel's Agent Carter will be getting two additional episodes, the second season will include 10 episodes and will have Agent Carter in Los Angles. So far there has been no word on which characters besides Peggy Carter will be included in the second season. I do hope the rest of the cast will return: Jarvis, Sousa, Howard Stark, Thompson, and Angie. They also need to bring back the Black Widow a.k.a. Dottie. 


- Fans of the popular werewolf TV series Bitten will be happy to know that the show will be getting a third season. It stars actress Laura Vandervoort who is best known for her role as Supergirl on Smallville.

Nonfiction Read-a-Thon book #2: The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl

Okay, the first book for the Nonfiction Read-a-thon wasn't the best, here's hoping this second book will be better. I had already heard a lot of good things about this book prior to picking it up. I'm really looking forward to reading it.


Book: The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl by Issa Rae

Source: Library

Description:

In the bestselling tradition of Sloan Crosley’s I Was Told There’d Be Cake and Mindy Kaling’s Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?, a collection of humorous essays on what it’s like to be unabashedly awkward in a world that regards introverts as hapless misfits, and black as cool.

My name is “J” and I’m awkward—and black. Someone once told me those were the two worst things anyone could be. That someone was right. Where do I start?

Being an introvert in a world that glorifies cool isn’t easy. But when Issa Rae, the creator of the Shorty Award–winning hit series “The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl,” is that introvert—whether she’s navigating love, work, friendships, or “rapping”—it sure is entertaining. Now, in this debut collection of essays written in her witty and self-deprecating voice, Rae covers everything from cybersexing in the early days of the Internet to deflecting unsolicited comments on weight gain, from navigating the perils of eating out alone and public displays of affection to learning to accept yourself—natural hair and all.

A reflection on her own unique experiences as a cyber pioneer yet universally appealing, The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl is a book no one—awkward or cool, black, white, or other—will want to miss.

Illustration of the Day: Lois and Clark (Smallville)

Illustration: Smallville Season 11: Lantern

Book Review for the Nonfiction Read-aThon book #1: The Happiness Project

Book: The Happiness Project: Or Why I Spent a Year Trying to Sing in the Morning, Clean My Closets, Fight Right, Read Aristotle, and Generally Have More Fun by Gretchen Rubin

Source: Library

Rating: 2 stars

Review:

There was a lot of good stuff here that makes you think about things but the writing is dull and long winded. I also found the introduction or the Getting Started portion of this book to be wordy and a little pompous and not to mention boring. The way she described how she was going about creating this happiness project felt like it was the complete opposite of trying to take time to enjoy her life. It was so overly detailed and complex.

The author had the idea for creating The Happiness Project because she felt as if she was no longer enjoying the life that she had. She was so busy with her daily life that it was making it impossible to enjoy it.

The project seemed like a good idea, with each month she focused on areas she wanted to work on. The author would see if by improving those things would it improve how happy she was. Throughout the chapters the author details her problems and how she went about fixing them. However, you don't really get a sense that she's actually enjoying doing any of the things she's doing other than for a project.

Some of the things I got from this book are:

- Be yourself.

- Take time out to have fun and focus on things you enjoy doing.

- Respect others and yourself.

- Do things for others.

- Don't take people and things for granted.

- It's okay to indulge every now and then.

- Not to continue reading a book if you don't enjoy it.


Yes, these are good things but they can be found in other books and articles or from searching online. Did this book make me want to do my own Happiness Project? No, because I'm generally a happy person and I enjoy doing things that make me happy.

I think this would have been a much better read if the author's writing wasn't so wordy and didn't include so many quotes from various sources as well as responses from her blog. The writing didn't feel engaging nor inspiring, it mainly read as just a project the author created just to write a book.

Art of the Day: Nightwing

Artwork: Nightwing by wyv1

Comic Book Wednesday: May 27th Picks

Happy Comic Book Wednesday!

Small list but still some good picks. I also have two new books on my list: Inferno (Marvel) and the miniseries Secret War Journal (Marvel).

This is the last week of Convergence and like I said last week I'm sad to see it end. These were a good group of stories. They really made me miss the pre-New 52. I'm not exactly thrilled with the upcoming DC You (or New 49 as some call it), especially not with the poor treatment that Lois Lane and Clark Kent/Superman will be getting. Well, now that's a discussion for another post.

Anyway, here is my list for the week:


DC Comics

Book: Batman '66 #23

Description:

Two villains from Batman's classic Rogues Gallery get the '66 treatment in two separate stories! First, Hilda, aunt of Marsha Queen of Diamonds, messes with forces beyond her control and brings forth Solomon Grundy.

Then, when False Face goes looking for a shape-shifting formula, he ends up creating Clayface!

Book Review: The Worrier's Guide to Life

Book: The Worrier's Guide to Life by Gemma Correll

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing

Description:

If you're floundering in life, striking out in love, struggling to pay the rent, and worried about it all -- you're in luck! World Champion Worrier and Expert Insomniac Gemma Correll is here to assure you that it could be much, much worse.

In her hugely popular comic drawings, Gemma Correll dispenses dubious advice and unreliable information on life as she sees it, including The Dystopian Zodiac, Reward Stickers for Grown-Ups, Palm Reading for Millennials, and a Map of the Introvert's Heart. For all you fellow agonizers, fretters, and nervous wrecks, this book is for you. Read it and weep...with laughter.


Rating: 3 stars

Review:

I found the title to be a little misleading since most of the entries seemed to focus more on issues for introverts or possibly loners instead of for someone who may worry a lot.

The book is separated into eight chapters, that deal with everything from health to holidays. This was a quick read with the book featuring mostly illustrated pages. I thought this was cute but not necessarily laugh out loud funny this had more of a subtle vibe to it.

I do wish this had focused more on being a funny guide for worriers because it felt like more like a random collection of comics instead of a guide book. However, I did like the artwork and illustrations they were cute and quirky.

Illustration of the Day: Tony Stark and Steve Rogers

Illustration: Shut Up, Tony by nilaffle

Wish List: Black Widow: Forever Red

Black Widow (who still doesn't have her own movie nor an abundance of merchandise) will be starring in her own young adult novel. According to the description it looks like readers are going to get a little more background of Natasha.

I seriously can't wait to read this.


Book: Black Widow: Forever Red by Margaret Stohl

Publication: October 13, 2015

Description:

Enter the world of Black Widow in this thrilling Marvel young adult novel, penned by #1 New York Times bestselling author Margaret Stohl.

This novel features all the thrilling adventure readers will expect from the Marvel brand, backed up by the young-adult cred of #1 New York Times bestselling author Margaret Stohl. Uncover a new side of the Marvel Universe, accessible to old fans and new readers alike, as Stohl weaves an unforgettable story through the world of the Black Widow.

Fashion: Two Lupita Nyong'o Cannes Looks

Lupita Nyong'o wore this beautiful Gucci cream chiffon gown while attending The Chopard Trophy Presentation. I love this dress it's so pretty and her hair and make-up are simply flawless.

Art of the Day: Dark Angel (Max Guevara)

Artwork: Dark Angel by Cyberborg

Nonfiction Read-a-Thon Schedule and Book #1: The Happiness Project

Since I've recently checked out three nonfiction books from the library and have one sitting on my shelf that I've been wanting to read. And I have three advanced reader copies that I also want to read.

So with all of these nonfiction books at my reach, I figured this would be a great time for another read-a-thon.

Here are the books I plan to read:

- The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin
- The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl by Issa Rae
- Let's Just Say It Wasn't Pretty by Diane Keaton
- Always In Fashion by Mark Weber
- The Science of TV's The Big Bang Theory by Dave Zobel
- Suck It, Wonder Woman! The Misadventures of a Hollywood Geek by Olivia Munn
- Escape From Tibet by Nick Gray with Laura Scandiffio

It looks like it's going to be an interesting group of books. Please feel free to read along with me if you like.


Book: The Happiness Project: Or Why I Spent a Year Trying to Sing in the Morning, Clean My Closets, Fight Right, Read Aristotle, and Generally Have More Fun by Gretchen Rubin

Source: Library

Description:

Gretchen Rubin had an epiphany one rainy afternoon in the unlikeliest of places: a city bus. "The days are long, but the years are short," she realized. "Time is passing, and I'm not focusing enough on the things that really matter." In that moment, she decided to dedicate a year to her happiness project.

In this lively and compelling account, Rubin chronicles her adventures during the twelve months she spent test-driving the wisdom of the ages, current scientific research, and lessons from popular culture about how to be happier. Among other things, she found that novelty and challenge are powerful sources of happiness; that money can help buy happiness, when spent wisely; that outer order contributes to inner calm; and that the very smallest of changes can make the biggest difference.

Pic of the Day: Pig Eating Ice Cream

If this doesn't put a smile on your face, I don't know what will.

Trailer for Fall TV show: Blindspot

Blindspot  Scheduled to air Mondays on NBC at 10:00PM EST


This show will star Jaimie Alexander best known for her roles in the Thor movies and TV series Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.

The trailer seems interesting and if you've seen the TV series Kyle XY doesn't her character in this show remind you of the character she played on Kyle XY. Her character Jessi XX and "Jane", both have amnesia and have strange abilities (well Jessi had quite a lot of abilities).

Hopefully it will be a good show, I'll tune in to see.


Show Description:

A vast international plot explodes when a beautiful Jane Doe (Jaimie Alexander) is discovered naked in Times Square, completely covered in mysterious, intricate tattoos with no memory of who she is or how she got there. But there's one tattoo that is impossible to miss: the name of FBI
agent Kurt Weller (Sullivan Stapleton), emblazoned across her back. "Jane," Agent Weller and the rest of the FBI quickly realize that each mark on her body is a crime to solve, leading them closer to the truth about her identity and the mysteries to be revealed. From Executive Producer Greg Berlanti ("The Mysteries of Laura," "The Flash," "Arrow").

Book Review: Ask the Dark

Book: Ask the Dark by Henry Turner

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Description:

A compelling tale of redemption and tour-de-force YA debut, Ask the Dark is an absorbing first-person thriller about Billy Zeets, a 14-year-old semi-delinquent in a deadly tango with a killer.

Billy Zeets has a story to tell.

About being a vandal and petty thief.

About missing boys and an elusive killer.

And about what happens if a boy who breaks all the rules is the only person who can piece together the truth.

Gripping and powerful, this masterful debut novel comes to vivid life through the unique voice of a hero as unlikely as he is unforgettable.




Rating: 1 (Did Not Finish)

Review:

I hate to say this but Ask the Dark is about as exciting and thrilling as watching paint dry. The story drags a lot and the weak narrative made it even worse.

The story told by main character 15 year old Billy Zeets who while in the process of trying to save not only the family's home but to get his father back to work ended up stumbling upon a mystery.

As he tells his story, it's very slow moving and everything in between Billy describing the missing boys just feels like filler pages.

This just wasn't for me and I found it difficult to get into the story. I decided to stop reading it, this was not a good read for me.

Happy Memorial Day!

Artwork: Captain American I Stand by Queen-Of-Cute

Happy Memorial Day! In honor of the soldiers who have served, thank you.

Fashion: Two Natalie Portman Cannes Looks

Over the years the Cannes Film Festival has turned into an international fashion show. Here are two fashionable looks from Natalie Portman who has recently been announced to be starring as former first lady Jacqueline Kennedy for an upcoming movie.

Here she is attending the premiere for the movie "Sicario" wearing a beautiful green Lavin gown. I like this dress it has a Greek Goddess feel to it, very flowy. Her hair and make up are simple yet still elegant.

Currently Reading: Ask the Dark

I hope this is as good as the description makes it seem.


Book: Ask the Dark by Henry Turner

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Description:

A compelling tale of redemption and tour-de-force YA debut, Ask the Dark is an absorbing first-person thriller about Billy Zeets, a 14-year-old semi-delinquent in a deadly tango with a killer.

Billy Zeets has a story to tell.

About being a vandal and petty thief.

About missing boys and an elusive killer.

And about what happens if a boy who breaks all the rules is the only person who can piece together the truth.

Gripping and powerful, this masterful debut novel comes to vivid life through the unique voice of a hero as unlikely as he is unforgettable.

Toy Corner: Super Best Friends Forever Supergirl Statue

I have been eyeing this Super Best Friends Forever Supergirl statue for quite a while. Every time I go into the comic book store and it's still sitting on top of the shelf, I couldn't help hoping that no one else will buy it. Because I wanted it, but since I buy way too many comic books I always put off buying this.

However, yesterday I finally went in there and bought it along with a few comics. I'm hoping to see if I can get the Batgirl and Wonder Girl statues as well.

Book Review: Moriarty

Book: Moriarty (Sherlock Holmes by Anthony Horowitz book #2) by Anthony Horowitz

Source: Library

Rating: 1 star (Did Not Finish)

Review:

I have one word to describe this book: Tedious.

I could not finish reading this, I like reading about the world of Sherlock Holmes and generally the stories are good. Although, I could barely get through the long winded writing in the first few pages I continued reading. The story had started to become interesting but that didn't last too long because it was soon back to being really dry and boring.

Moriarty is told in first person by Frederick Chase a senior investigator with Pinkerton Detective Agency in New York who first starts talking about Holmes' "death" at the Reichenback Falls until he gets to the reason for the story. He had traveled to Switzerland to find out about a connection to Professor Moriarty to a underworld criminal. He was joined by Scotland Yard detective Athelney Jones as they try to track down the criminals.

This was a very slow moving boring story and it failed to capture my attention.

Art of the Day: Iron Man and War Machine

Artwork: Iron Man and War Machine by predator-fan

I'm thinking of giving The Flash TV series a second chance

Last night my friends and I were talking and someone brought up The Flash TV series. I'm not sure how we got around to me stop watching the show but apparently according to them I didn't give the show a chance. They said the show had got so much better.

I had stopped watching it after the first few episodes, it just wasn't clicking with me. But after this discussion I started to think about a few things. It made me look at myself in a new way, I don't want to turn into one of those stuffy uptight people that don't give things a chance. That is so not me.

Well, I figure if the entire first season shows up on either hulu or Netflix I'll watch it, if not then I'll get the DVD when it's available.

The Flash isn't the only show I'm giving a second chance okay more like third chance. I finally was able to watch the entire first episode of Arrow and I actually liked it. I guess third time was a charm.

Anyone else give up on watching The Flash (or Arrow) but is thinking of giving it a second chance?

Book Review: Woodstock: Master of Disguise

Book: Woodstock: Master of Disguise by Charles M. Schulz

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing

Description:

Woodstock might be the smallest of all the Peanuts gang, but he’s got a lot to say, even if Snoopy is the only one who understands him. That’s because Snoopy is Woodstock’s “Friend of Friends,” and together they write masterpieces, fly airplanes, find the perfect place to nap, and win over the hearts of readers all over the world. Whether he’s falling in love with a snowflake or crash-landing on the tip of Snoopy’s nose, Woodstock is the little yellow bird with a big personality. It takes more than a strong wind to ruffle Woodstock’s feathers, although it’s a good thing he has Snoopy to keep his little yellow feet on the ground. Don’t miss out on the newest AMP! Peanuts collection featuring Woodstock, the most recognizable yellow bird in the world—even in disguise!


Rating: 2 stars

Review:

This was okay but I was mostly surprised that it wasn't that funny. There were a few funny and cute moments but nothing that made me laugh out loud. I also found the title and cover misleading because Woodstock was only shown wearing few disguises for the Thanksgiving comics and a few other ones.

Yes, this may focus on Woodstock but his best friend Snoopy isn't far from the scene. The dynamic duo face nearly everything together from their fears of vampires to dealing with the hassles of Woodstock's bad flying.

I love Charlie Brown and the rest of the Peanuts and I still enjoy reading the comics and watching the cartoon specials and movies. However reading this felt like it was missing something. The illustrations were great just some of the dialogue didn't seem to work.