Showing posts with label Book Watch. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Book Watch. Show all posts

Monday, April 6, 2020

Book Watch: Three Lando Calrissian Star Wars Books for Billy Dee Williams' Birthday

Since today is Billy Dee Williams' birthday (he's 83) here are three Lando Calrissian Star Wars books you might want to add to your To Read List. I have the first book (I haven't read it yet but I will) and I'm planning on getting the other two as well.

From smooth talking Administrator of Cloud City and former scoundrel to being a heroic General of the Rebel Alliance, it was great seeing Lando's return to the war and in his former ship, the Millennium Falcon.

Happy Birthday Billy Dee Williams and thank you for portraying one of my favorite characters, Lando Calrissian. May The Force Be With You!



Monday, June 11, 2018

Book Watch: Teen Titans: Raven Graphic Novel

Okay, Teen Titans fans you might want to write this down somewhere as a reminder. Raven's comic book (or graphic Novel) will be published in July 2019 and it's written by Kami Garcia with illustrations by Gabriel Picolo. The book will be published under DC Comics new imprint line DC Ink.

Here's the newly released cover art for the upcoming book. What do you guys think? I can't wait to read this, I love the cover by Gabriel Picolo who is quickly becoming one of my favorite artists.

Thursday, July 6, 2017

Book Watch: Three Books from the CW Beauty and the Beast TV Series

I love watching the CW Network's Beauty and the Beast TV series so much that I ordered the complete series (it was released last month). I recently found out that there are three books based on the show and all I can think is why am I just now finding out about them?

I don't recall ever seeing any promotion for these books, I found them by accident and now I will add them to my wishlist because I will be buying them.


Book: Vendetta (Beauty and the Beast book #1) by Nancy Holder

Description:

During a mysterious blackout, Angelo DeMarco, the son of New York City’s most powerful family, is kidnapped. NYPD detectives Catherine Chandler and Tess Vargas are on the case when they learn of a second missing person: Cat’s father has disappeared from his prison cell on Rikers Island. Vincent is desperate to help Cat, but as tensions rise, the couple becomes caught in a trap where the only way out is to confront their pasts and prove their epic love.


Saturday, May 6, 2017

Book Watch: Four Book Series I Want to Read

I haven't made it out to the comic book store for Free Comic Book Day, in fact I might not make it at all since I'm dealing with a bit of a cold. And while I'm at home drinking a warm cup of tea, I thought I would post a few book series I was interested in reading.

From the magic of The Jumbies to the action adventure of Cirque American I think these four series would make for a fun read. Also included is The Mortal Instrument series since I've become a fan of the TV series I wanted to read the books as well.


The Jumbies by Tracey Baptiste

(Rise of the Jumbies is not available until September 19th)



Friday, February 3, 2017

Book Watch: Cassandra Cain and Stephanie Brown's Batgirl Comic Book Series

I don't often dole out praise to DC Comics but I am when it comes to republishing older series. And for fan who didn't get a chance to read Cassandra Cain or Stephanie Brown's Batgirl comic book series when they were originally published you will now be able to. The first three volumes of Cain's Batgirl series are already out while the first volume of Brown's Batgirl will not be out until June.

I always felt like Cass and Steph never got the attention they deserved they were sort of treated by some fans as placeholders until Barbara Gordon would one day return to that mantle. These two were great in the role with both series reflecting their contrasting personalities. Yet, what I loved the most was that writers gave the readers something new and different in regards to Batgirl. It was a wonderful rebranding of the hero each time the mantle was handed down.


Batgirl: Cassandra Cain


Book: Batgirl volume #1: Silent Knight (issues #1-12 and Annual #1) by Kelly Puckett with illustrations by Scott Peterson

Description:

Cassandra Cain is a fighter like no other. At only 17, the teenage assassin takes down enemies three times her size without batting an eye. But her incredible skills come at a cost: unable to speak or write, Cassandra instead reads body language as naturally as breathing—an ability that makes her even deadlier.

After Batman witnesses her save the life of Commissioner Gordon during the events of No Man’s Land, the Dark Knight sees in Cassandra the successor to the Batgirl name. Now, under the tutelage of Barbara Gordon—the original Batgirl herself—Cassandra Cain must find a new purpose and make amends for her violent past.

But can someone who was born to kill ever be worthy to take up the cowl of a fallen legend?






Book: Batgirl volume #2: To The Death (issues #13-25) by Kelly Puckett with illustrations by Damion Scott

Description:

Cassandra Cain is Batgirl: vigilante crime-fighter, protégé to both Batman and Barbara Gordon, and the ultimate martial arts master. Her near-superhuman fighting abilities are so much a part of her identity that when they failed her, she was willing to make an unthinkable bargain to get them back.

Impressed by their first encounter, the unbeatable assassin Lady Shiva agreed to help restore Cassandra’s incredible skills. In return, exactly one year later, Lady Shiva would return to challenge Cassandra to a rematch.

Only this time, it’s to the death.






Book: Batgirl volume #3: Point Blank (issues #26-37 and Batgirl Secret Case Files & Origins #1) by Kelley Puckett with illustrations by Damion Scott

Description:

Cassandra Cain returns to Gotham’s streets as Batgirl. Raised to be a perfect fighting machine, Cassandra has vowed to use her unrivaled combat skills to protect the citizens of Gotham. After defeating the feared assassin Lady Shiva in a harrowing battle, Cassandra must prove that she’s more than just an incredible fighter as she trains with Batman to become a detective.

Batgirl’s detective skills are soon put to the test when she must help an amnestic secret agent recover his memory in time to stop a mysterious catastrophic event threatening Gotham City! Time is quickly running out and Cassandra must fight harder than ever before, using both her wit and strength to solve the mystery. Can Batgirl save Gotham before it’s too late?




Batgirl: Stephanie Brown


Book: Batgirl: Stephanie Brown volume #1 (issues #1-13) by Bryan Q. Miller with illustrations by Lee Garbett

Publication: June 20, 2017

Description:

Bryan Q. Miller's critically acclaimed run takes Stephanie Brown a.k.a. former Robin, a.k.a. Spoiler, to new heights as Batgirl!

Battling both inner and external demons, Stephanie must learn to balance school and crime-fighting or face the wrath of Barbara Gordon! With guest appearences from Batman and Robin and villains like Man-Bat and Clayface, Batgirl must step up to the mantle!

Batgirl must battle the Calculator and stop his plan to unleash a nanovirus upon the citizens of Gotham City that will turn them into mindless techno-zombies, enter the FLOOD!

Tuesday, January 17, 2017

Book Watch: WordGirl Comic Books

Did you know there are WordGirl comic books? Despite being a big fan of the cartoon series, I had no idea there were any comic books until I saw them yesterday while I was searching for some other book. There are four comics that were published back in 2011 by Boom! Studios and at that time I wasn't reading any books by the publisher (but I am now) which is probably why I didn't know anything about these books.

I love watching the WordGirl animated series, how can you not like a superhero who loves to read? Becky Botsford and her trusty sidekick and friend Bob the monkey protect the city as WordGirl and Captain Huggy Face. She uses her intellect which includes her vast vocabulary coupled with creativity and her superpowers to stop all these crazy zany villains causing trouble.

I plan on buying and reading all four books but for now I only bought WordGirl: The Incredible Shrinking Allowance and I will post it when I get it.




Book: WordGirl: Coalition of Malice (WordGirl book #1) by Chris Karowowski with illustrations by Steve Young

Description:

A titanic team-up spells trouble when WordGirl’s arch-villains The Butcher, Mr. Big, Dr. Two-Brains, Granny May and Chuck the Evil Sandwich-Making Guy join forces…as the fearsome Coalition of Malice!







Book: WordGirl: The Incredible Shrinking Allowance (WordGirl book #2) by Chris Karwowski with illustrations by Steve Young

Description:

When Tobey's allowance runs dry, the young inventor has only one terrifying option to finance his horde of destructive robots - get a job! Will WordGirl have what it takes to pummel these cybernetic perils once they have a payroll? Find out in this all new vocabulary-filled volume!







Book: WordGirl: Word Up (WordGirl book #3) by Anita Serwacki with illustrations by Steve Young

Description:

The City's favorite daughter fights the good fight against bad vocabulary in another round of thrilling adventures! What will WordGirl and Captain Huggy Face do against a wave of mobilized vittles? The Butcher creates motorized mayhem in 'The Ham Van Makes the Man, ' and it would take a dastardly duo like Chuck the Evil Sandwich-Making Guy and Dr. Two-Brains to make the world's most evil grilled cheese sandwich. What will our heroes do?






Book: WordGirl: Fashion Disaster (WordGirl book #4) by Scott Ganz and Andrew Samson with illustrations by Steve Young

Description:

Duty calls for WordGirl, especially when her alter ego, Becky Botsford, sees her best friend in trouble! When Violet gets wrapped up in the evil machinations of Mr. Big and Lady Redundant Woman…can WordGirl save The City and her best friend from a FASHION DISASTER? And The Whammer just wants a home to call his own, but what happens when he decides to play house in The City’s brand-new playground? Find out in the Wham-tastic FORT WHAM-GROUND!

Friday, January 13, 2017

Book Watch: Four Yoga Books of Interest

I was working out this morning when I started thinking about health and fitness books. I was wondering why we buy them if we know what we need to do to be healthy? We all know that it's important to be healthy but I guess knowing that and knowing what to do means nothing if you're not actually eating healthy and exercising. I think one of the main reasons we buy these books is that they are motivating. I have a few of them sitting on the shelf that range from general health and fitness to yoga, and depending on how they are written, the books can inspire someone to get healthy and make changes in their lives.

I don't buy a lot of health and fitness books just ones that interest me. Lately, I've really become interested in reading more about yoga. I love the be in the moment/mindfulness that I feel when I'm doing some of the moves, it's very relaxing. Anyway, here are four yoga books that have caught my attention and I've added to my wishlist.



Book: The Living Clearly Method: 5 Principles for a Fit Body, Healthy Mind & Joyful Life by Hilaria Baldwin

Description:

Hilaria Baldwin knows what it means to be pulled in many directions―as a mother of three, businesswoman, yoga instructor, Instagram sensation, and wife of actor Alec Baldwin, she has to work hard to remain centered. Through her life experiences, struggles, and personal growth, Hilaria has developed a method for using movement and mindfulness to create an unbreakable mind-body connection, an illuminating method that shapes her life.

The Living Clearly Method shows how to blend purposeful movement with conscious breath to move through our lives with grace, calm, and positivity. By using Hilaria’s five simple principles―Perspective, Breathing, Grounding, Balance, and Letting Go―you can flow through any situation with the beautiful union of mind, body, and spirit that a yoga practice can create.

But learning to honor the body and listen to the soul does not end when you get off the mat. Hilaria believes strongly in finding ways to integrate the five principles into your entire life, so for each step she also shares her own routines that keep her active all the time―from the little motions that engage her body during household chores and the foods that keep her well nourished to the philosophy that grounds her when she’s being pulled in a million directions at once.

This book is also packed with practical tools such as timesaving tips, delicious recipes inspired by clean and plant-based eating, mini-workouts that seamlessly integrate into your everyday life, breathing exercises, and customized yoga and meditation routines.

The Living Clearly Method teaches you to listen to your body, tune in to your mind, and develop the consciousness to clear your head and find peace in your life. It is a beautiful, intuitive guide for living the healthiest life possible, both inside and out.






Book: Every Body Yoga: Let Go of Fear. Get on the Mat. Love Your Body. by Jessamyn Stanley

Publication: April 4, 2017

Description:

From the unforgettable teacher Jessamyn Stanley comes Every Body Yoga, a book that breaks all the stereotypes.

It’s a book of inspiration for beginners of all shapes and sizes: If Jessamyn could transcend these emotional and physical barriers, so can we.

It’s a book for readers already doing yoga, looking to refresh their practice or find new ways to stay motivated.

It’s a how-to book: Here are easy-to-follow directions to 50 basic yoga poses and 10 sequences to practice at home, all photographed in full color.

It’s a book that challenges the larger issues of body acceptance and the meaning of beauty.

Most of all, it’s a book that changes the paradigm, showing us that yoga isn’t about how one looks, but how one feels, with yoga sequences like “I Want to Energize My Spirit,” “I Need to Release Fear,” “I Want to Love Myself.”

Jessamyn Stanley, a yogi who breaks all the stereotypes, has built a life as an internationally recognized yoga teacher and award-winning Instagram star by combining a deep understanding for yoga with a willingness to share her personal struggles in a way that touches everyone who comes to know her. Now she brings her body-positive, emotionally uplifting approach to yoga in a book that will help every reader discover the power of yoga and how to weave it seamlessly into his or her life.






Book: Namaslay: Rock Your Yoga Practice, Tap Into Your Greatness and Defy Your Limits by Candace Moore

Description:

Candace’s approach to yoga, which combines old-world principles with a modern-day perspective comes from her own experience fighting back against a dangerous illness and depression. Her focus on perseverance and overcoming adversity transforms Namaslay into a powerful, motivational guide to help you live your most authentic life.

With a distinct visual format, Namaslay guides readers step by step through more than 100 yoga poses. The poses are broken down by experience level into a series of progressions and include modifications for those who can't quite achieve the full expression of a pose just yet. Full-color photos and tips on overcoming common mistakes helps people get the most out of every pose.

Namaslay also features three 30-day yoga programs that focus on: de-stress, core strengthening, and back pain. You will also find specific yoga sequences that are customized for everyone from the office dweller to the endurance athlete.

Written with heart, humor, and swagger, Namaslay is a book for everyone, from beginners to advanced practitioners and even the simply curious.

Namaslay’s high-quality, edgy yet beautiful photographs add an artful flair that puts it in a class of its own—as appropriate for a coffee table as a yoga studio!






Book: Strala Yoga: Be Strong, Focused & Ridiculously Happy from the Inside Out by Tara Stiles

Description:

In Strala Yoga, Tara Stiles explains the origin and philosophy of this feelings-based style of yoga, which is spreading like wildfire around the world—from New York City to Barcelona to Singapore. Focusing on the power of combining movement with intuition, Tara walks readers through the importance of moving with ease and creating space in their lives. Strala isn’t about strict poses; it’s about your body and your abilities. By moving how it feels good to move, readers will not only get a great workout but also release stress, free up space in their minds, and open themselves up to creativity.

Tara lays out simple, step-by-step information on everything from how to use the breath in movement, to how to create ease, to how to set up a home practice. More than ten routines—each illustrated with clear, instructional photos—offer both easy and more difficult tracks, appealing to beginners and seasoned yogis alike, and aim to help readers dissolve stress, get better sleep, gain energy, or even wind down after a tough day. Tara also offers up both a 7-day jumpstart and a 30-day program to help readers bring yoga—and its varied benefits—easily into their lives.

My goal is to help you feel connected and gain strength, calm, clarity, and ease from the inside out.
Get ready to feel amazing, and enjoy the ride!
” ~Tara

Friday, November 18, 2016

Book Watch: Trans Week: 5 Books on my List

To celebrate Transgender Week or Trans Week (See Twitter Hashtag: #TransWeek) I wanted to post some books that I'm interested in reading. I have read quite a few featuring trans characters and one that I would like to recommend is The Art of Normal by Lisa Williamson, it's a fantastic read.

My Books of Interest already include Being Jazz by Jazz Jennings and George by Alex Gino, I feel like trans week is a great way to raise visibility for many who often feel invisible in our society.

If you haven't already, please take the time to find and read non-fiction or fiction trans books, there are some very good reads out there.



Book: Redefining Realness: My Path to Womanhood, Identity, Love & So Much More by Janet Mock

Description:

New York Times Bestseller • Winner of the 2015 WOMEN'S WAY Book Prize • Goodreads Best of 2014 Semi-Finalist • Books for a Better Life Award Finalist • Lambda Literary Award Finalist • Time Magazine “30 Most Influential People on the Internet” • American Library Association Stonewall Honor Book

In her profound and courageous New York Times bestseller, Janet Mock establishes herself as a resounding and inspirational voice for the transgender community—and anyone fighting to define themselves on their own terms.

With unflinching honesty and moving prose, Janet Mock relays her experiences of growing up young, multiracial, poor, and trans in America, offering readers accessible language while imparting vital insight about the unique challenges and vulnerabilities of a marginalized and misunderstood population. Though undoubtedly an account of one woman’s quest for self at all costs, Redefining Realness is a powerful vision of possibility and self-realization, pushing us all toward greater acceptance of one another—and of ourselves—showing as never before how to be unapologetic and real.






Book: Beyond Magenta: Transgender Teens Speak Out written and photographed by Susan Kuklin

Description:

A  2015 Stonewall Honor Book

A groundbreaking work of LGBT literature takes an honest look at the life, love, and struggles of transgender teens.


Author and photographer Susan Kuklin met and interviewed six transgender or gender-neutral young adults and used her considerable skills to represent them thoughtfully and respectfully before, during, and after their personal acknowledgment of gender preference. Portraits, family photographs, and candid images grace the pages, augmenting the emotional and physical journey each youth has taken. Each honest discussion and disclosure, whether joyful or heartbreaking, is completely different from the other because of family dynamics, living situations, gender, and the transition these teens make in recognition of their true selves.







Book: If I Was Your Girl by Meredith Russo

Description:

Amanda Hardy is the new girl in school in Lambertville, Tennessee. Like any other girl, all she wants is to make friends and fit in. But Amanda is keeping a secret. There’s a reason why she transferred schools for her senior year, and why she’s determined not to get too close to anyone.

And then she meets Grant Everett. Grant is unlike anyone she’s ever met—open, honest, kind—and Amanda can’t help but start to let him into her life. As they spend more time together, she finds herself yearning to share with Grant everything about herself…including her past. But she’s terrified that once she tells Grant the truth, he won't be able to see past it.

Because the secret that Amanda’s been keeping? It’s that she used to be Andrew.








Book: Gracefully Grayson by Ami Polonsky

Description:

What if who you are on the outside doesn't match who you are on the inside?

Grayson Sender has been holding onto a secret for what seems like forever: "he" is a girl on the inside, stuck in the wrong gender's body. The weight of this secret is crushing, but sharing it would mean facing ridicule, scorn, rejection, or worse. Despite the risks, Grayson's true self itches to break free. Will new strength from an unexpected friendship and a caring teacher's wisdom be enough to help Grayson step into the spotlight she was born to inhabit? 

Debut author Ami Polonsky's moving, beautifully-written novel about identity, self-esteem, and friendship shines with the strength of a young person's spirit and the enduring power of acceptance.







Book: Dreadnought: Nemesis - Book One by April Daniels

Publication: January 24, 2017

Description:

Danny Tozer has a problem: she just inherited the powers of Dreadnought, the world’s greatest superhero. Until Dreadnought fell out of the sky and died right in front of her, Danny was trying to keep people from finding out she’s transgender. But before he expired, Dreadnought passed his mantle to her, and those secondhand superpowers transformed Danny’s body into what she’s always thought it should be. Now there’s no hiding that she’s a girl.

It should be the happiest time of her life, but Danny’s first weeks finally living in a body that fits her are more difficult and complicated than she could have imagined. Between her father’s dangerous obsession with “curing” her girlhood, her best friend suddenly acting like he’s entitled to date her, and her fellow superheroes arguing over her place in their ranks, Danny feels like she’s in over her head.

She doesn’t have time to adjust. Dreadnought’s murderer―a cyborg named Utopia―still haunts the streets of New Port City, threatening destruction. If Danny can’t sort through the confusion of coming out, master her powers, and stop Utopia in time, humanity faces extinction.

Saturday, July 23, 2016

Book Watch: 5 Books That Are On My Radar

I love doing the 365 Books of Interest Challenge but posting one book a day sometimes isn't enough. Which is why I have my Book Watch post but I haven't used it as much since I've been doing the challenge. That's going to change because there are so many books I see that I want to read and not to mention share what I found.

These five books have recently caught my attention and not just for the covers. The description for each book seems very interesting. As for the covers, when I look at the first three books, I see a similarity. They each feature a mountainous view. I have one comic book in this post, Superman vs Muhammad Ali. I seriously can't believe I have never read that book before.




Book: Pierced by the Sun by Laura Esquivel with translations by Jodi Castells

Description:

Lupita’s hard-knock life has gotten the better of her time and time again. A childhood robbed of innocence set off a chain of events that she still has not managed to control, no matter how hard she tries. Every time she thinks she has a handle on things, unexpected turns make her question everything, including herself.

When Lupita witnesses the murder of a local politician whom she greatly admires, the ghosts of her past resurface as she tries to cope with the present. She quickly falls back into her old self-destructive habits and becomes a target of Mexico’s corrupt political machine. As the powers that be kick into high gear to ensure the truth remains hidden, Lupita finds solace in the purity of indigenous traditions. While she learns how to live simply, like her ancestors, she comes to understand herself and rediscovers light within a dark life. And if there is hope for Lupita’s redemption, perhaps there is hope for Mexico.






Book: Life in Outer Space by Melissa Keil

Description:

Sam is a geek movie-buff with a ragtag group of loser friends who have been taking abuse from the popular kids for years. But when the super-cool Camilla moves to town, she surprises everyone by choosing to spend time with Sam s group. Suddenly they go from geek to chic, and find that not everything boils down to us and them.

With their social lives in flux, Sam and Camilla spend more and more time together. They become the best of friends, and Sam finds that he s happier and more comfortable in his own skin than ever before. But eventually Sam must admit to himself that he s fallen in love. If he confesses his true feelings to Camilla, will everything change again?







Book: Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Saenz

Description:

This Printz Honor Book is a “tender, honest exploration of identity” (Publishers Weekly) that distills lyrical truths about family and friendship.

Aristotle is an angry teen with a brother in prison. Dante is a know-it-all who has an unusual way of looking at the world. When the two meet at the swimming pool, they seem to have nothing in common. But as the loners start spending time together, they discover that they share a special friendship—the kind that changes lives and lasts a lifetime. And it is through this friendship that Ari and Dante will learn the most important truths about themselves and the kind of people they want to be.






Book: Superman vs Muhammad Ali Deluxe Edition by Dennis O'Neil with illustrations by Neal Adams

Description:

Two legendary figures meet for the first time in this spectacular adventure, as an alien race called the Scrubb demand that Earth's greatest champion battle their world's own greatest fighter. Both Superman and Muhammad Ali step forward -- and to determine who is truly Earth's greatest fighter, Superman temporarily loses his powers and faces Ali in the ring. Ultimately, the duo must work together to defeat the Scrubb, with Ali taking on their champion while Superman battles their space-armada. Features previously unpublished developmental artwork and other bonus features, at DC's Deluxe Edition trim size.






Book: Wonder Show by Hannah Barnaby

Description:

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, step inside Mosco’s Traveling Wonder Show, a menagerie of human curiosities and misfits guaranteed to astound and amaze! But perhaps the strangest act of Mosco’s display is Portia Remini, a normal among the freaks, on the run from McGreavy’s Home for Wayward Girls, where Mister watches and waits. He said he would always find Portia, that she could never leave. Free at last, Portia begins a new life on the bally, seeking answers about her father’s disappearance. Will she find him before Mister finds her? It’s a story for the ages, and like everyone who enters the Wonder Show, Portia will never be the same.

Friday, March 18, 2016

Book Watch: The Girl's Book Series

I'm currently reading an advanced reader copy of the third book Smart Girl but I'm going to stop reading it. Not because it's bad, no I'm actually really enjoying it but my reason is simply because I want to read the first two and 1/2 books before I finish reading this one.

The Girl's book series is on my Book Watch list because I love a series that is fashionable and fun with interesting characters.


Book: Party Girl (The Girl's book #1) by Rachel Hollis

Description:

Landon Brinkley’s dreams are all coming true. She’s landed an internship with the fabulous Selah Smith, event planner for the Hollywood elite, taking her from small-town Texas to the bright lights of LA. Landon soon finds herself in a world in which spending a million dollars on an event—even a child’s birthday party—is de rigueur and the whims of celebrity clients are life-and-death matters. At first, the thrill of working on A-list parties and celebrity weddings is enough to get Landon through the seventy-five-hour workweeks and endless abuse at the hands of her mercurial boss. But when the reality of the business reveals itself, she’s forced to make a choice: do whatever it takes to get ahead, or stay true to herself.






Book: Party Girl's First Date (The Girl's book #1.5) by Rachel Hollis

Description:

The Girl's Series Novella - Landon Brinkley is twenty-four years old and she’s never been on a real date. That’s mostly because she’s been working so hard on her dreams she hasn’t had time to bother with men. But then Brody Ashton walked into her life and since he looks like an underwear model (but you know, with clothes on) it was kind of impossible not to take notice.

So Landon and Brody are dating now, or really, beginning to. It’s all very new and exciting and there’s only one problem… they still haven’t gone on a real date. So that’s what tonight is supposed to be; magical, romantic, expensive… and it's about to go horribly wrong.






Book: Sweet Girl (The Girl's book #2) by Rachel Hollis

Description:

Max Jennings is in a bad mood. It’s not anything you did; it’s just that secrets from her past make it her natural state of being. But she’s not going to talk about it or share her feelings, so don’t bother asking.

Max’s bad mood means that very few people actually truly understand her or know that her secret dream is to be a pastry chef. When a rare opportunity to work for world-famous Avis Phillips presents itself, Max jumps at the chance. Avis and her staff aren’t stingy with the tough love, so Max spends every spare minute practicing her craft. As she bakes brownies and custards, cookies and galettes, she builds an unlikely friendship with a man she once loathed and finds herself falling into something she’s spent the last six years avoiding. Will she let her painful past stand in the way, or will she muster the strength to forgive herself and realize her full potential?






Book: Smart Girl (The Girl's Series book #3) by Rachel Hollis

Description:

Brilliant designer Miko Jin is a hopeless romantic. She’s spent most of her life falling in love over and over again…with the men she finds in the pages of her favorite novels.

When Miko meets Liam Ashton, it’s love at first sight. At least, for her. Sure, the two of them are polar opposites, and yes, he seems to be dating someone new each week. But Miko knows what true love is and that you can’t rush it—after all, what she lacks in real-world experience, she makes up for in book smarts. With novels as her guide, and her best friends by her side, she knows she can get Liam to love her back. But just like any good romance novel, fate has a few plot twists in store. Will Miko get her own happy ending? Will she find the strength to stand up for what she deserves even if it means breaking her own heart?

Sunday, February 14, 2016

Book Watch: 8 Childen's Valentine's Day Books


I hope everyone is enjoying Valentine's Day. I love this holiday but maybe it's because I'm a romantic. Gifts are not necessary for me to enjoy the day but that's probably because I'm a very cheerful and happy person.

Tomorrow, I will be posting a couple of book reviews but until then here are some really cute children's Valentine's Day books. I had a hard to time making a selection because there are so many cute book out there.




Book: Happy Valentine's Day, Curious George! by N. Di Angelo with illustrations by Mary O'Keefe Young

Description:

George and his friends celebrate Valentine’s Day with decorating, baking, card making and some unexpected hilarity along the way! Just how much mischief can a curious little monkey get into when balloons, frosting, and glitter are involved? Fold-out flaps on each scene reveal lively surprises in this humorous celebration of friendship. Sparkly red foil shines on the cover and throughout the book





Book: Valentine's Day by Anne Rockwell with illustrations by Lizzy Rockwell

Description:

There's lots to love about Valentine's Day, and Mrs. Madoff's class is ready to celebrate. Everyone is making valentines for their friend Michiko in Japan. Jessica writes a poem, Charlie draws an airplane, and Eveline uses lace and lots of shiny stickers. No matter how far apart Michiko and her friends are, making valentines can bring them together!






Book: Be My Valentine, Charlie Brown by Charles M. Schulz

Description:

Love is in the air! Celebrate Valentine’s Day with the Peanuts gang, and see if Charlie Brown will finally talk to the little red-headed girl. This beloved story is now available in an exciting format as an 8x8 with stickers.





Book: The Valentine's Day Mix-Up by Amy Ackelsberg with illustrations by MJ Illustrations

Description:

Strawberry Shortcake and all her friends are planning to have a berry special Valentine's Day. But when the mail arrives on Valentine's Day, Strawberry doesn't get a single card. Did all her friends forget about her? This friendship-themed storybook comes with sparkly valentine cards.






Book: Doc McStuffins My Huggy Valentine by Sheila Sweeny Higginson and Disney Book Group

Description:

Valentine's Day is Lambie's favorite holiday! She has worked hard decorating the clinic and planning activities for the party, and she can't wait to share it with Doc. But when Doc gets Val, a stuffed heart toy, as a Valentine's Day gift, Lambie is afraid that she has been replaced in Doc's heart. This sweet storybook teaches kids about love and friendship, and comes with sparkly holiday stickers for even more Valentine's Day fun with Doc and the gang!






Book: Fancy Nancy: Heart to Heart by Jane O'Connor with illustrations by Robin Preiss Glasser

Description:

Almost everything about Valentine's Day is fancy . . . especially with Fancy Nancy!

Mystery is in the air when Nancy receives a valentine from a secret someone. Join Nancy as she follows the clues to find out who it is—all in her trademark fabulous style, of course. Gorgeous stickers included!






Book: Snowy Valentine written and illustrated by David Petersen

Description:

Almost everything about Valentine's Day is fancy . . . especially with Fancy Nancy!
Mystery is in the air when Nancy receives a valentine from a secret someone. Join Nancy as she follows the clues to find out who it is—all in her trademark fabulous style, of course. Gorgeous stickers included!






Book: The Night Before Valentine's Day by Natasha Wing with illustrations by Heidi Petach

Description:

All the kids are getting ready for the sweetest holiday of the year! Join in on all of the card-making fun, and then come along to school the next morning for a day of parties and games!

Wednesday, February 10, 2016

Book Watch: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Official Script Book (and Other Harry Potter Book News)

It's been some time since I've read a Harry Potter book. And even though I don't talk about the series as much as I use to, I'm still a big Harry Potter fan.

The play for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child has been getting a lot of good buzz which makes me wonder if that's the reason it's being turned into the official eighth Harry Potter book.

According to Pottermore, print and digital editions of the play will be published simultaneously after the play’s world premiere this summer. It will be comprised of the version of the play script at the time of the play’s preview performances. The Special Rehearsal Edition of the script book will later be replaced by a Definitive Collector’s Edition.

Pottermore also states that 2017 will see the publication of four special editions of the first book Harry Potter and the Philospher's Stone in the UK, it will be published for each of the four Hogwarts houses. There will also be a brand new edition of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, with new content by J.K. Rowling, as well as new formats and editions of the Hogwarts Library books – Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Quidditch Through the Ages and The Tales of Beedle the Bard.




Book: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child - Parts I and II (Special Rehearsal Edition): The Official Script Book (Harry Potter book #8) by J.K. Rowling, Jack Thorne and John Tiffany

Publication: July 31, 2016

Description:

Based on an original new story by J.K. Rowling, Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, a new play by Jack Thorne, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is the eighth story in the Harry Potter series and the first official Harry Potter story to be presented on stage. The play will receive its world premiere in London’s West End on 30th July 2016.

It was always difficult being Harry Potter and it isn’t much easier now that he is an overworked employee of the Ministry of Magic, a husband and father of three school-age children.

While Harry grapples with a past that refuses to stay where it belongs, his youngest son Albus must struggle with the weight of a family legacy he never wanted. As past and present fuse ominously, both father and son learn the uncomfortable truth: sometimes, darkness comes from unexpected places.

Saturday, February 6, 2016

Book Watch: Kate Hudson's "Pretty Happy" Health & Fitness Book

Besides her acting, Kate Hudson has become known for being healthy and in great shape. She's also the co-founder of a fitness apparel line that's becoming very popular.

As a bit of a fitness buff, I'm interested in giving this a read.



Book: Pretty Happy: Healthy Ways to Love Your Body by Kate Hudson

Publication: February 16, 2016

Description:

I didn’t just wake up one day understanding how to take care of myself. I had to learn how to do so over time, and I continue to learn—each and every day. This is a process, and my body is constantly changing. So is yours. And when I learned how to accept that I will always be like this, I relaxed. Our bodies do not stand still for time.

When you understand yourself and connect to how you can become body smart, you realize pretty quickly that the perfect, the ideal is not the goal. Instead, the goal is feeling good in your body. That’s what leads to confidence, to feeling and looking fit, and being pretty happy. Doesn’t that sound great? I think so!

In almost every interview she gives, Kate Hudson is asked the same questions: What do you eat? How do you stay so fit? What workout do you do? What’s your secret? Well, the secret is that the sound bites the media loves so much don’t tell the story, and the steps you need to take to have a healthy, vibrant and happy life can’t be captured in a short interview. The key to living well, and healthy, is to plug into what your body needs, understanding that one size does not fit all, all the time, and being truly honest with yourself about your goals and desires.

Like everyone else, Kate is constantly on the move, with a life full of work, family, responsibilities and relationships. In Pretty Happy, Kate shows how she honors her relationship with herself through exercise, making the right choices about what she eats, and constantly going back to the drawing board and starting fresh, instead of holding herself to unrealistic standards of perfection and giving up when she falls short. Focusing on the Four Pillars of Health to enhance her well-being, Pretty Happy shows the benefits of:
  • Cultivating an Intuitive Relationship With Your Body
  • Eating Well
  • Awakening Your Body through movement
  • The Miracle of Mindfullness
Full of questionnaires to help you assess your Body Type and your stress levels, advice about cleanses and keeping your diet and body balanced, and plenty of interactive Drawing Board exercises, Pretty Happy is a beautiful, insightful, and personal look at health from the inside out, an authentic plan for an authentic life from a woman who truly lives what she speaks.

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Book Watch: DC Presents Lois & Clark 100 Page Spectacular #1


Cover art by Ryan Sook


I will definitely be picking this up. I find it so interesting that when DC Comics started the New 52 they tried so hard to get rid of the relationship between Lois and Clark all so they can promote the fauxmance between Superman and Wonder Woman. But lately it seems to be a totally different story. They recently launched the new comic book series Superman: Lois & Clark written by Dan Jugens (the first issue seems to be doing really well with fans) and they will be releasing this new special in a couple of weeks.

It really makes me wonder why all of a sudden they are back tracking and are now trying to promote Lois and Clark? 


Book: DC Presents Lois & Clark 100 Page Spectacular #1 written and illustration by various writers and artists

Publication: In comic book stores Wednesday, November 11, 2015

Price: $7.99

Description:

It's the 1990s epic in which Clark Kent and Lois Lane tied the knot, featuring stories and art by some of greatest Superman storytellers of all time! Guest-starring Batman, Mr. Mxyzptlk and more!

Wednesday, September 30, 2015

Book Watch: Six Comics/Graphic Novels from Star Wars to Wonder Woman

This is a great time to be a comic book reader because there is such a large variety of book to read from.

For this Book Watch I wanted to focus on some comics I've been keeping my eye on such as the highly anticipated Wonder Woman Earth One. I can't wait to read that book.

Here are the rest of my picks:



Book: Star Wars volume #1: Skywalker Strikes (issues #1-6) by Jason Aaron with illustrations by John Cassaday and Laura Martin

Publication: October 6, 2015

Publisher: Marvel Comics

Description:

The greatest space adventure of all returns to Marvel! Luke Skywalker and the ragtag rebel band opposing the Galactic Empire are fresh off their biggest victory yet - the destruction of the massive Death Star. But the Empire's not toppled yet!

Join Luke, Princess Leia, Han Solo, Chewbacca, C-3PO, R2-D2 and the rest of the Rebel Alliance as they fight for freedom against the evil of Darth Vader and his master, the Emperor! But when a Rebel assault goes very wrong, Han and Leia will have to think fast to make their escape...while Luke finds himself face-to-face with Darth Vader! In the explosive aftermath, a humbled Luke returns to Tatooine to learn more about his mentor Obi-Wan Kenobi. Meanwhile, Leia and Han undertake a vital - and dangerous -secret mission...but can they succeed without Luke?


Friday, September 18, 2015

Book Watch: Five Children/Middle Grade Books

Book Watch is a new post I started to put a spotlight on books I find interesting. I'm starting the first post by showcasing several children/middle grade books.



Book: For the Right to Learn: Malala Yousafzai's Story by Rebecca Langston-George with illustrations by Janna Bock

Publication Date: Available now

Publisher: Capstone

Description:

She grew up in a world where women were supposed to be quiet. But Malala Yousafzai refused to be silent. She defied the Taliban's rules, spoke out for education for every girl, and was almost killed for her beliefs. This powerful true story of how one brave girl named Malala changed the world proves that one person really can make a difference.