Policy

If you have a product or service you'd like me to review you can contact me anytime.
freda[dot]mans[at]gmail.com

Girl Land by Caitlin Flanagan

Girl Land - Caitlin Flanagan Giveaway Open to US/CAN Ends Feb 8

Murder, Mayhem and Mama

Murder, Mayhem and Mama - Christie Craig Giveaway Coming Soon

Are You Smart Enough to Work at Google?

Are You Smart Enough to Work at Google? - William Poundstone Giveaway Coming Soon

the snow child

The Snow Child - Eowyn Ivey Giveaway Coming Soon

obamas

The Obamas - Jodi Kantor Giveaway Coming Soon

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Top Commenters of the Week




Thank you for your comments and support daily. I appreciate you all. The listed are the people who comment the most. Stats updated every Sunday.


* carolsnotebook http://carolsnotebook.wordpress.com/
* Snowbell http://snowbellsreads.blogspot.com/
* Vicki http://ilratb.blogspot.com/
* Dina http://justanothernewblog.blogspot.com/
* Zia http://ziarias.blogspot.com/
* Sweet Vernal Zephr http://sweetvernalzephyr.blogspot.com/
* bermudaonion http://bermudaonion.wordpress.com/
* hmsgofita http://gofita.blogspot.com/
* elahet0001

Quote It Saturday




This is a weekly meme hosted by: http://thatchickthatreads.blogspot.com/ in which you can quote from anything really. Favorite books, people, just anything that you like!

I personally love to quote people. So here it goes:

* A friend can tell you things you don't want to tell yourself. ~ Frances Ward Weller

* The best antique is an old friend. ~ Anonymous

* Once the game is over, the king and the pawn go back in the same box. ~ Italian Proverb

Friday, October 30, 2009

Corduroy Mansions

Chapter Thirty-Five

Corduroy Mansions



Chapter Thirty-Five: Don’t Go There
The suspense is killing me!!! I couldn't believe all that happened in such a short chapter. I really want to continue and see how Rupert will explain his way out of that mess. And I'm highly curious of that Yeti. What are your thoughts? Do you think Errol is delusional?


If you haven't read the previous chapters you can by my archives, or clicking this link for the website: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/corduroymansionsbyalexandermcca/

~I did not receive any compensation for this post. This is my honest opinion.~

Aloha Friday



This meme is hosted by An Island Life: http://islandlife808.com/memes/aloha-friday-103/

To Play:

Answer the question then post your own at your blog and link up at An Island Life.


Question is:
Do you have a favorite sport? Can you think of a really good sports related book based on your favorite sport?

My Answer:
I don't know that it's any good, I have yet to read it.... but my favorite sport is hockey. Big surprise I know! There is a new book called Leafs AbomiNation
The dismayed fan's handbook to why the Leafs stink and how they can rise again
Written by Dave Feschuk & Michael Grange. It's getting lots of reviews, and not all good, but I still wanna get my hands on it.

The Friday 56





Rules:
* Grab the book nearest you. Right now.
* Turn to page 56.
* Find the fifth sentence.
* Post that sentence (plus one or two others if you like) along with these instructions on your blog or (if you do not have your own blog) in the comments section of http://storytimewithtonya.blogspot.com/
*Post a link along with your post back to http://storytimewithtonya.blogspot.com/




Page 56, Sentence 5:

The language of Arabic had a divinity of its own: the simple act of opening one's mouth and spouting Quranic Arabic was enough to endow the speaker with blessings.

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Corduroy Mansions

Chapter Thirty-Four

Corduroy Mansions



Chapter Thirty-Four: Among the Rosbifs

There was some definite suspense in this chapter, between the man, Ratty Mason, and the having to look around at Barbara's apartment. I really wanted to keep reading to know what they knew or would soon find out. I rather enjoyed this chapter and felt it was over too quickly. I do tend to drop back to Freddie de la Hay, and wonder what has become of him. Do you think he is doing alright, and will make it back safe? And what of James and Caroline? Do you wonder if they will stay together? What are your thoughts?



If you haven't read the previous chapters you can by my archives, or clicking this link for the website: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/corduroymansionsbyalexandermcca/

~I did not receive any compensation for this post. This is my honest opinion.~

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Booking Through Thursday



A weekly meme hosted by: http://btt2.wordpress.com/2009/10/22/one-question/

In lieu of Hallowe'en, what is your favorite activity, candy and scary movie??? Yes I am curious to know of all three!!

I believe this is a holiday for the kids, and my favorite part is always the costumes. This year I plan on taking photos of all the different costumes I can find. As for candy, you may think it nuts, but I look forward to the rockets and hallowe'en kisses. Y'know the toffee candy. And as for scare the pants off me movie, I have to say my all time faves are: Hellraiser, Amityville horror, The Saw movies, the original Dracula, and of course anything Freddy Krueger.

TV Thursdays - Childhood Favorites




TV Thursday is a weekly meme hosted by Gofita's Pages: http://gofita.blogspot.com/

1. SMALL WONDER http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Small_Wonder_%28TV_series%29 (1985-1989) Young Adult


2. DINOSAURS http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dinosaurs_%28TV_series%29 (1991-1994) Family


3. SMURFS http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Smurfs (1981-1990) Cartoon


4. STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE http://www.retrojunk.com/details_tvshows/634-strawberry-shortcake (1980) Cartoon



What are your faves????

Can God Be Trusted? Finding Faith in Troubled Times By Thomas D. Williams



Full Description:

Father Williams explores the most common obstacles that prevent people from trusting God, including personal betrayals, unfulfilled expectations, and seemingly unanswered prayers. He then explains what is reasonable to expect from God and offers practical tips for ways to grow in trust.
Williams is becoming a revered voice in the Christian community for his insightful writings on issues that really matter to Christians. In this new book, Father Williams will help readers understand, not only how to trust God in spite of doubts and confusion, but to truly know God can be trusted.

©2009

About Author:

Thomas D. Williams, LC, ThD, is Vatican Analyst for CBS News and a professor of theology and ethics at the Regina Apostolorum Pontifical University in Rome. He has also worked extensively for NBC News and Britain's Sky News, covering church and ethical issues, including the final illness and death of Pope John Paul II, the 2005 papal conclave, and the election of Pope Benedict XVI. Father Williams also regularly appeared in the MSNBC series The Ethical Edge and is author of several books and dozens of articles, both scholarly and popular.

My Take on the Book:
For a religious book, I have to admit, it was better than I had expected it to be. I found myself really enjoying it, and agreeing with the author in many ways. I don`t think you have to be religious in nature, to appreciate the writing.
It was a very enlightening book, with regards to trust and those issues surrounding it. We do have levels of trust, and this book really helps to define them.
The author did a great job of conveying the information, without forces his religious ideals upon the reader. I really found that satisfy too. I'd like to point out, that there is the cutest and warmest story on Page 64. I enjoyed it so much, I had to call a friend and share it with them.
I recommend this book to anyone looking for a good read.


~I did not receive any compensation for this post. This is my honest opinion.~

Article Submission: I'll Take a Community With That Book, Please!‏

Earlier today I was contacted by FSB Associates to share this informative article, with you, my readers. Please read this article written by Fauzia Burke who is the founder and President of http://www.fsbassociates.com/, a Web publicity firm specializing in creating online awareness for books and authors. She is currently a featured blogger on The Huffington Post( http://www.huffingtonpost.com/fauzia-burke ) new books vertical where this article originally debuted. This article emphasizes that publishing companies need to change their marketing strategy to reach a new era of readers who are well informed looking to connect.

All New FSBMedia- Quality Content from Published Authors
Please visit at: http://www.fsbassociates.com/ & http://www.fsbmedia.com/

I'll Take a Community With That Book, Please!
By Fauzia Burke


With today's search empowered readers, do we need to market and publish books differently? Does general publishing makes sense in an age of Google searches, micro communities and niche marketing?
Today's readers are tech savvy and resourceful. They know how to get the information they need and have higher expectations from publishers and authors. They don't just expect a book, they expect a community with their book.

I often hear publishers say that there are "very few brands in book publishing." But to thrive in today's competitive, niche markets, perhaps brands are exactly what we need. What readers choose to read is personal and an extension of who they are. Shouldn't their book choices be supported by a publisher, a brand that is invested in their interests?

Many small publishing companies have done an enviable job of branding themselves and building reader communities around their books. Take O'Reilly, TOR and Hay House. You may not read their books, but you know what they publish. Their communities trust them. People who share their point-of-view flock to their lists. These companies publish for a niche community, and are trusted members of their community. They provide extra resources, and often their authors are members of the community itself. TOR has even launched a bookstore to meet their readers' needs. These publishers show passion for their books and an understanding of their readers, and as such their readers reward them with loyalty.

Publishing books for the community
Besides reader loyalty, publishing for micro communities may have other long-term benefits as well. For example, the focus would help publishers save money on marketing. Marketing through online communities is less expensive and much more powerful than trying to reach the general public and hoping to find the right match. The publisher's Web site wouldn't have to cater to a wide variety of people, it would be designed to serve the needs of a small group. Instead of expensive advertising, they could announce the book to the community that has already bought into their brand. Publishers and authors could enlist the support of the community to spread the word (which will always be the most efficient method for marketing books.) The logo on the book spine would mean the readers have a promise that the book is worth reading. The readers would know that the publisher looked at over a thousand manuscripts all on the same topic and is offering them the very best.

So are large, general publishers at a disadvantage with today's search-empowered, community oriented readers? I think so. General trade publishing is for everyone, yet there is no "everyone" out there. Readers are part of micro communities. They want good books, and they need publishers who will support their interests and passions.

The bottom line is that publishers and authors need to evolve their marketing and publishing strategies to accommodate for a new kind of reader. A reader whose expectations demand more interaction and community. A reader whose loyalty you can have once you have earned it. A reader who wants more than a 6 week marketing campaign so you can sell a book. This new reader requires an investment of months and years.

Is that too much to expect? Perhaps. But this is your new reader, and she will stay with you if you stay with her.

Stay tuned for Web marketing tips in future weeks, or follow FSB on Twitter to see our results in real time: http://twitter.com/FSBAssociates

©2009 Fauzia Burke

For more information, please visit http://www.fsbassociates.com/

Wondrous Words Wednesday



Wondrous Words Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Kathy at http://bermudaonion.wordpress.com/ where we share new (to us) words that we’ve encountered in our reading. Feel free to join in the fun. (Don’t forget to leave a link in your comment if you’re participating.)

* amanuensis
Pronunciation: \ə-ˌman-yə-ˈwen(t)-səs\
Function: noun
Date: 1619
1: one employed to write from dictation or to copy manuscript

There was letters to Errol Greatorex, the amanuensis who claimed to have written the autobiography of a yeti. Chapter 29, Corduroy Mansions (online novel)

* pedantic
Pronunciation: \pi-ˈdan-tik\
Function: adjective
Date: circa 1600
1 : of, relating to, or being a pedant
2 : narrowly, stodgily, and often ostentatiously learned
3 : unimaginative, pedestrian

"Firstly," he said on one occasion, in that insufferably pedantic voice that he used when he wanted to explain what he thought was very obvious. Chapter 29, Corduroy Mansions (online novel)

* redolent
Pronunciation: \-lənt\
Function: adjective
Date: 15th century
1 : exuding fragrance : aromatic
2 a : full of a specified fragrance : scented b : evocative, suggestive

;the slightly acrid smell of sleeper carriages, a smell redolent of batteries and stuffiness, and slightly sour milk. Chapter 30, Corduroy Mansions (online novel)

* diurnal
Pronunciation: \dī-ˈər-nəl\
Function: adjective
1 a : recurring every day b : having a daily cycle
2 a : of, relating to, or occurring in the daytime b : active chiefly in the daytime c : opening during the day and closing at night

It was quotidian, diurnal-nocturnal. Chapter 31, Corduroy Mansions (online novel)

Corduroy Mansions

Chapter Thirty-Three

Corduroy Mansions



Chapter Thirty-Three: Further Examination
An interesting chapter, starring Dee. It was interesting enough that I didn't wonder about Freddie de la Hay until the end. I was secretly rooting for Richard, even though I think Dee should be a little leery of him. It is a business venture, and she should protect it. Very entertaining though!
I wonder if this character Richard, who shares schooling with Dee, if they will romantically connect. James is still with Caroline, and this man is not. Maybe she should think of dating Richard??? What are your thoughts??? What about Freddie, the dog? What do you think has become of him? Do you think he will be returned home??? Do share your thoughts with us, by commenting below.

If you haven't read the previous chapters you can by my archives, or clicking this link for the website: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/corduroymansionsbyalexandermcca/

~I did not receive any compensation for this post. This is my honest opinion.~

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Contest Time!!! Ends Nov. 11th 11:59 p.m. e.s.t. CLOSED



Seven: The Number for Happiness, Love, and Success

Full Description From Website:
What is it about the number seven that has such a hold on us? Why are there seven deadly sins? Seven days of the week? Seven wonders of the world, seven colors of the spectrum, seven ages of man, and seven sister colleges? Why can we hold seven numbers or words in our working memory--but no more? Author Jackie Leo explores everything about this mystical, magical, useful, and fun number in her new book.

SEVEN REASONS YOU NEED THIS BOOK

1. SEVEN is a tool to improve the quality of your life. It is a way to define time, synthesize ideas, and keep your mind performing at top speed in an era of distractions.
2. SEVEN is culturally significant. It pops up everywhere, structuring our world in ways so fundamental, we notice them only when we pause to look. Across the ages and across cultures, the number has acquired a huge scientific, psychological, and religious significance.
3. SEVEN is intriguing. Why, out of hundreds of recipes in a cookbook, do people return to the same seven, over and over? Why, when asked to choose a number between one and ten, does such a large majority of people choose seven? Why does it take seven rounds of shuffling to obtain a fully mixed deck of cards?
4. SEVEN is influential. You'll learn how the number seven shapes our thinking, our choices, and even our relationships.
5. SEVEN is practical. Throughout this book are Top Seven lists covering the best ways to get someone's attention, to build your personal brand, and to put yourself in the path of prosperity and good luck.
6. SEVEN is fun. You'll encounter surprising facts, intriguing puzzles, and hilarious anecdotes.
7. SEVEN is wise. You'll hear stories about the meaning of seven from Mehmet Oz, Sally Quinn, Liz Smith, Christina Ricci, and many others.
Artfully designed and full of enough insights to keep you engaged in conversation at the water cooler for years, SEVEN will provoke, enlighten, and amuse.

Author Bio from Website:
Jacqueline Leo
Media guru JACQUELINE LEO has held a number of high-level positions in publishing and television. She founded and launched Child magazine in 1986, and went on to be editor in chief of Family Circle magazine and editorial director of the New York Times Women's Magazine Group, where she launched Fitness magazine. She was senior producer and editorial director of Good Morning America, editorial director for Consumer Reports, and vice president and editor in chief of Reader's Digest. She is currently director of digital operations for the Peter G. Peterson Foundation. She lives in New York City.



GIVEAWAY

THANKS TO ANNA AND THE
HACHETTE BOOK GROUP, I HAVE
1 COPIES OF THIS FABULOUS BOOK
TO GIVE AWAY. HERE IS WHAT YOU
NEED TO DO TO WIN A COPY!

RULES: Open to U.S. and Canada

All comments must be separate and have a valid email.

Mandatory: Must comment and leave email, good for one entry.

For extra entries, leave separate comment for each:
+1 Be a follower of my blog.
+1 Blog or tweet contest, leave link. Can be done daily.

Easy as 1-2-3! Contest ends November 11, 11:59 p.m. (e.s.t.)



Best of luck!!!!

Corduroy Mansions

Chapter Thirty-Two

Corduroy Mansions



Chapter Thirty-Two: A Homeopathic Joke

This chapter really didn't last very long at all. I was reading one minute and next it was done. I don't feel as though I learned, or took anything away from it. I am disappointed to be left flat. I rest assured it will pick up in the next chapter or two. I did appreciate the homeopathic joke though. I even laughed out loud.
I do wish the story would get back to Freddie. What are your thoughts of Freddie, the dog? Do you think Dee will take James from Caroline? Share your thoughts.


If you haven't read the previous chapters you can by my archives, or clicking this link for the website: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/corduroymansionsbyalexandermcca/

~I did not receive any compensation for this post. This is my honest opinion.~

Teaser Tuesday


Hosted by: http://shouldbereading.wordpress.com/?s=Teaser+Tuesdays

* Grab your current read.
* Let the book fall open to a random page.
* Share with us two (2) “teaser” sentences from that page, somewhere between lines 7 and 12.
* You also need to share the title of the book that you’re getting your “teaser” from…that way people can have some great book recommendations if they like the teaser you’ve given.
* Please avoid spoilers!


My Teaser:


In the book of Proverbs we read: "The crucible is for silver, and the furnace is for gold, but the Lord tests the heart" (17:3). Both the crucible and the furnace are unpleasant prospects.

Page 102, Can God Be Trusted: Finding Faith in Troubled Times by Thomas D. Williams, LC, ThD

Monday, October 26, 2009

WINNER!!!!



I picked a random winner, using http://www.random.org/ and #8 was chosen!!
original post: http://fredasvoice.blogspot.com/2009/10/contest-time-ends-oct-26th-at-1159-pm.html

Anonymous said...

what do i do ?
did i win ?
i'll check my mail box tomorrow !
woo !

THEGABRIEL@iwastoobusywinning.ca



You have won a copy of:






I have emailed the winner. Thanks to all who entered. I have a new contest coming in the very near future, so stay tuned.

A Flower Blooms On Charlotte Street by Milam McGraw Propst



Full Description:
The only remaining female in the George Nash family, Ociee chooses to view herself as more brother than sister. Her favorite outfit is soft, worn dungarees and her brother Ben's old shirt that Mama made. Ociee's hair is a wispy web of curls and, dreadfully, it usually falls in her face when her self-tied ribbons slide down her back. Her gray eyes sparkle as she delights in jumping on moving boxcars and chasing strangers who dare to wander upon her Mississippi farm. This same little tomboy also goes to great pains to cook and clean and make a home for her beloved Papa and brothers Fred and Ben. She tries valiantly to fill the hole her Mama's death has left in the family. She fingers Mama's locket and hopes the touch of it will make things better. Ociee endears herself to all while she struggles through the trauma of her mother's funeral to finally celebrate her young life. Her eyes learn to see beyond stereotypes and traditional viewpoints as she looks into the hearts of people and finds only what is strong and joyful within them. Ociee giggles as only an innocent child can giggle; yet her youthful spirit carries what would seem to be the wisdom of an older soul. Ociee triumphs over the sadness, fear, and anxiety of the painful occurrences of her early life. In doing just that, she will bloom in a new garden and sow seeds of love in the lives of those who come to know her in a new home on Charlotte Street.

©2004

About Author:
For more information visit her website: http://www.milammcgrawpropst.com/


My Take on the Book:

For a Young Adult book, it was very good. A light-hearted tale of a young girl and her family. I enjoyed all of the characters in this book, especially the gypsy. How I wished that he reappeared. Many parts of the book I really enjoyed. A must read for any young girl.

I read this book in e-book format.

~I did not receive any compensation for this post. This is my honest opinion.~

Corduroy Mansions

Chapter Thirty-One

Corduroy Manisons



Chapter Thirty-One: The Cool Kindliness of Sheets
This was quite the romantic chapter. It got me in awe, as I read the beautiful poem Hugh wrote for Barbara. I was disappointed when the chapter ended, because I wanted the emotion to continue. Though looking back, it was the best spot to break. Quite entertaining!
I'm still thinking of that dog, Freddie too. What are your thoughts on him? And thinking of James again, do you think he will or should leave Caroline for Dee? I'm curious what your thoughts are.

If you haven't read the previous chapters you can by my archives, or clicking this link for the website: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/corduroymansionsbyalexandermcca/

~I did not receive any compensation for this post. This is my honest opinion.~

Media Monday

This is my version of Mailbox Monday, to suit my page.


Children Of Dust by Ali Eteraz


Musical Chairs by Jen Knox


Corduroy Mansions by Alexander McCall Smith


Dreamer by Phillip L. Davidson

Musing Monday



Today’s MUSING MONDAYS post is about note taking…

Do you take notes while reading – either for your reviews or for yourself? How/where do you make these notes (on the page, post-its, scrap paper, notebooks etc)?

PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT with either the link to your own Musing Mondays post, or share your opinion in a comment here (if you don’t have a blog). Thanks.

I personally do not take notes while reading, unless it's new words for Wondrous Words Wednesday. I prefer to read the book, and write the review while the emotions and thoughts are still fresh. I can see the benefits to note-taking, I just don't use this method myself.

Sunday, October 25, 2009

A Climate For Change: Global Warming Facts for Faith-Based Decisions



Full Description:

Global warming: it's one of the hottest scientific and political issues of today. And yet we've all found ourselves asking . . .

- It's freezing outside--where's global warming now?
- Climate is always changing--how do we know this isn't just a cycle?
- Why should Christians care about global warming when we know the world won't end that way?

For all the talk about climate change, there's still a great deal of debate about what it all means, especially among Christians. A CLIMATE FOR CHANGE offers straightforward answers to these questions, without the spin. This book untangles the complex science and tackles many long-held misconceptions about global warming. Authored by a climate scientist and a pastor, A CLIMATE FOR CHANGE boldly explores the role our Christian faith can play in guiding our opinions on this important global issue.

Book Website: http://climateforchangethebook.com/

©2009

About Authors:
Katharine Hayhoe
Katharine is a climate scientist and geoscience professor at Texas Tech University. A Toronto native and Illinois graduate, she tells everyone she has moved to Texas to anticipate global warming!
Katharine is an author of a number of studies that examine how climate change will affect the places where we live and the things that we care about. This includes the U.S. Global Change Research Program's 2009 report on climate impacts in the United States. Her work has been featured in over two hundred newspapers and media outlets around the world, including the BBC, Discovery Channel, National Geographic, and even Sports Illustrated--not the swimsuit edition, in case anyone was wondering.
Katharine is also honored to have contributed her research to and served as an expert reviewer for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007.
Follow @KatharineHayhoe on Twitter for frequent updates on the latest climate change science.
Andrew Farley
Andrew Farley is the lead teaching pastor of Ecclesia (EcclesiaOnline.com) and co-hosts Real Life in Christ, a 30-minute program that airs every week on ABC-TV in the West Texas area. Andrew served as a professor at the University of Notre Dame for five years and is now a tenured professor at Texas Tech University. Andrew has coauthored three textbooks and more than a dozen journal articles. He is also the author of The Naked Gospel: The Truth You May Never Hear in Church.
Follow @andrewfarley on Twitter for updates.

My Take on the Book:
For the most part, this was an interesting book. The science behind it is what appealed to me. I rather enjoyed reading about the changes going on our planet. Most of them we all know of, and yes, I do what I can to help lessen my output into the atmosphere. The authors did inspire me to want to do even more. Which is always good. Though at times I really didn't see where "God" fit into the book. The things happening to our world we know is human error. Here is an example from the book to show what I mean, and even better, the book is quoting the Bible....

"For He does not willingly bring affliction or grief to any human being" (TNIV). When it comes to climate change, we are the authors. Not God.
~ Page 65

The point is, I was already grabbed by the author upon mentioning global warming. Then bringing a religious aspect into it, without justifying it being there, did nothing to keep my attention. It made me irksome at having to read it, while waiting to read more about our earth.
I do think they wrote truthfully and with great respect. Plus we all need to do more for our environment, so with that I thin everyone should read it. Some of the scientific stats in it will really make you think.

~I did not receive any compensation for this post. This is my honest opinion.~

Corduroy Mansions

Chapter Thirty

Corduroy Mansions



Chapter Thirty: The Sleeper Train

This chapter I expected more, and it didn't quite deliver. I thought it would be more suspenseful than it was. Doesn't mean I'm not interested, just means I wanted more. I really wish it would get back to Freddie already. What do you think will happen with Freddie de la Hay, the dog? Also do you think James should leave Caroline for Dee??? They seemed to hit it off, but should he leave Caroline behind over it? Leave your thoughts.

If you haven't read the previous chapters you can by my archives, or clicking this link for the website: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/corduroymansionsbyalexandermcca/

~I did not receive any compensation for this post. This is my honest opinion.~

Top Commenters of the Week



Thank you for your comments and support daily. I appreciate you all. The listed are the people who comment the most. Stats updated every Sunday.

* carolsnotebook http://carolsnotebook.wordpress.com/
* dina http://justanothernewblog.blogspot.com/
* snowbell http://snowbellsreads.blogspot.com/
* vicki http://ilratb.blogspot.com/
* zia http://ziarias.blogspot.com/
* sweet vernyl zephyr http://sweetvernalzephyr.blogspot.com/

Saturday, October 24, 2009

Meet Valerie Bertinelli!!!!



Date:
Friday, October 30, 2009
Time:
7:00pm - 8:00pm
Location:
Indigo Books & Music, Manulife Centre
Street:
55 Bloor Street West
City/Town:
Toronto, Ontario

View Map: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=55+Bloor+Street+West%2C+Toronto%2C+ON

Hosted by Simon & Schuster
http://www.simonandschuster.ca/

Read an excerpt:
http://books.simonandschuster.ca/Finding-It/Valerie-Bertinelli/9781439141632/excerpt

The Sugarless Plum by Zippora Karz



Full Description:
It started as the perfect story. Zippora Karz was a member of the famed New York City Ballet by the age of eighteen. By twenty she was starring as the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker, dancing roles created by Jerome Robbins, and traveling the world.
It was the stuff dreams are made of until, at age twenty-one, Karz became exhausted, dizzy and excessively thirsty. Heavy pancake makeup covered the sores under her arms that would not heal, but she neglected to go to the doctor. When she finally did, she was diagnosed with diabetes, and learned that if she continued to ignore her symptoms, she risked heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, blindness and amputation of her toes, feet and legs. She struggled to get the correct diagnosis and treatment, first thinking she had Type-2 diabetes, when in fact she had Type 1, juvenile diabetes. Once placed on an insulin regimen to regulate her blood sugar, she would inject herself with unsafe doses before going on stage in misguided attempts to obtain peak performance. The potentially fatal result of Karz's self-experimentation became all too real when she nearly lost consciousness. Her weight dropped and she became dangerously ill.
Balancing ballet and her blood sugar would be a long and difficult struggle for Karz, but eventually she learned to value her body and work with it, rather than rage at its limitations. In The Sugarless Plum, Karz shares her journey from denial, shame and miseducation about her illness to how she led an active, balanced and satisfying life as an insulin-dependent diabetic and soloist with one of the world's most famous ballet companies. Through her fascinating story, those struggling with diabetes and other serious illnesses can find encouragement and inspiration as well as practical advice on achieving physical and emotional wellness.
After sixteen years with the New York City Ballet, Karz retired and took her passion and skills into a whole new arena as a diabetes educator and advocate, where today she inspires people to not just manage their illness, but to thrive and fulfill their passions. The Sugarless Plum takes readers deep into the heart and soul of a young dancer, and is a remarkable testament to determination and perseverance.

©2009

About Author:
Zippora Karz, author of The Sugarless Plum:A Ballerina's Triumph Over Diabetes, danced with the New York City Ballet from 1983 through 1999. She now serves as a teacher and répetitéur for the George Balanchine Trust, rehearsing and staging Balanchine's choreography for a host of international dance companies. She is also a diabetes spokesperson and educator who regularly addresses major diabetes conferences and organizations worldwide. She lives in Los Angeles, California.
For more information, http://zipporakarz.com/

My Take on the Book:
Where do I start?!
Having just been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes myself, this book really hit home. Though being the devils advocate here, it's really not for everyone. For me, it was all that and more! While reading I connected in every way, including being an odd age to get this disease. Usually people over 40 get it, however, she was 21! I'm a little older, but still not 40, so I understood the fears she felt. You wonder how it can happen, when you're fit and eat good. You forget your DNA plays a huge part, and live how you want, until...
I loved how she wrote, not only of this disease, but also of her love of dance. She allowed us into a world unknown, and it was a nice journey. I rooted for her with every step she took. I thought it was well written, and well expressed!! Kudos!!
You really should grab a copy. If I had to put in on a 5 scale, I'd give it a 3+!

~I did not receive any compensation for this post. This is my honest opinion.~

Friday, October 23, 2009

Quote it Saturday



This is a weekly meme hosted by: http://thatchickthatreads.blogspot.com/ in which you can quote from anything really. Favorite books, people, just anything that you like!

I personally love to quote people. So here it goes:

1. Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength. While loving someone deeply gives you courage. ~ LAO TZU (600 BC - 470 BC) Philosopher and central figure in Taoism.

2. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up. ~ THOMAS EDISON (1847 - 1941) Inventor, Scientist and Businessman.

3.Eve if you are on the right track, you'll get run over if you just sit there. ~ WILL ROGERS (1879 - 1935) Cherokee-American cowboy, comedian, humorist, social commentator, vaudeville performer and actor.

Corduroy Mansions

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Corduroy Mansions



Chapter Twenty-Nine: Rupert Scorns the Yeti Project


I really enjoyed this chapter. It was enlightening, and didn't stir up bad emotions as I thought at the beginning of it. It turned out to be happy, and left me with a smile on my face. So many different stories entangled together, makes for one good read! I look forward to the next!

If you haven't read the previous chapters you can by my archives, or clicking this link for the website: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/corduroymansionsbyalexandermcca/

~I did not receive any compensation for this post. This is my honest opinion.~

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Aloha Friday



This meme is hosted by An Island Life: http://islandlife808.com/memes/aloha-friday-103/

To Play:
Answer the question then post your own at your blog and link up at An Island Life.

Question is:

If you could talk to one person, famous or infamous, dead or alive, who would it be and why?

My Answer:

I bet this will be a bit of a cliche, but I'd give anything to have a few more minutes with my Dad. He died a year after me meeting him, and it is a long regret that we didn't connect sooner. He's been gone over a year, almost 2 actually, and it isn't any easier. As much as I love Elvis, I still would have to grab time with Dad. He could fill me in on Elvis. ;-)

The Friday 56



Rules:
* Grab the book nearest you. Right now.
* Turn to page 56.
* Find the fifth sentence.
* Post that sentence (plus one or two others if you like) along with these instructions on your blog or (if you do not have your own blog) in the comments section of http://storytimewithtonya.blogspot.com/
*Post a link along with your post back to http://storytimewithtonya.blogspot.com/



Page 56, Sentence 5 (&6):

Without a word, Sheila grabbed me by the hand. As she pulled me out the door to where my mother was waiting to drive me home, she uttered one two-word exclamation: "You're going!"

Booking Through Thursday


A weekly meme hosted by: http://btt2.wordpress.com/2009/10/22/one-question/

If you could ask your favorite author (alive or dead) one question … who would you ask, and what would the question be?

I would love to talk and learn from Maya Angelou. I would ask her how hard it was to break out with her poetry, and how did she do it. I have always wondered how hard it must have been for her, at that time, to be an author of poetry. It would be the trials and tribulations I wish to hear of.

TV Thursdays - Childhood Favorites



TV Thursday is a weekly meme hosted by Gofita's Pages: http://gofita.blogspot.com/

I had to join this one. I had some great shows as a kid that I watched faithfully. I will share a few now.

1. YOU CAN'T DO THAT ON TELEVISION: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/You_Can%27t_Do_That_on_Television (1979-1994) Canadian sketch show.
http://www.ycdtotv.de/


2. THE MUPPETS: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Muppets American Puppet Show. http://www.muppetcentral.com/


3. FALL GUY: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Fall_Guy (1981-1986) American action show.


4. THE A-TEAM: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_A-Team (1983-1986) American Action Show.


What are your faves????

Corduroy Mansions

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Corduroy Mansions



Chapter Twenty-Eight: Barbara Regrets Giving her Key to Rupert
This chapter became quite suspenseful. I understand Barbara's regret giving Rupert her key. What I don't understand, is why didn't she stop herself, or take it back. She should have listened to her gut instinct. Overall a great chapter. Now I have something other than Freddie de La Hay to ponder. Yeah, what happened to the dog??? Stay tuned to find out.

If you haven't read the previous chapters you can by my archives, or clicking this link for the website: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/corduroymansionsbyalexandermcca/

~I did not receive any compensation for this post. This is my honest opinion.~

WINNER!!



I picked a random winner, using http://www.random.org/ and #6 was chosen!!
original post: http://fredasvoice.blogspot.com/2009/10/suprise-2nd-contest-woohoo-ends-october.html

6. Dina said...
What an exciting book! I would love to read it. Thanks, Fredamans ;-)




I have emailed the winner. Thanks to all who entered. There is still a contest running for Can God Be Trusted, Finding Faith in Troubled Times, ending Oct 26th. Link is at top of the page. Good luck in future contests!

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Corduroy Mansions

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Corduroy Mansions



Chapter Twenty-Seven: Dee is Exposed as a Liar

I think James needs to get his head screwed on straight! He is thinking unnecessary things in this chapter, and it irks me. The only one who will suffer is Caroline, and I happen to like her. I think what her flatmate does is despicable behavior. AT least it stirred emotions in me, even if they were not the happier ones. I still loved reading this chapter.

If you haven't read the previous chapters you can by my archives, or clicking this link for the website: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/corduroymansionsbyalexandermcca/

~I did not receive any compensation for this post. This is my honest opinion.~

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Wonderous Words Wednesday



Wondrous Words Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Kathy at http://bermudaonion.wordpress.com/ where we share new (to us) words that we’ve encountered in our reading. Feel free to join in the fun. (Don’t forget to leave a link in your comment if you’re participating.)

* malfeasance
Pronunciation: \ˌmal-ˈfē-zən(t)s\
Function: noun
Date: 1696
1: wrongdoing or misconduct especially by a public official

Harvey first asked him to look into the malfeasance at City Hall. Page 52 Locked In

* maudlin
Pronunciation: \ˈmȯd-lÉ™n\
Function: adjective
Date: 1509
1 : drunk enough to be emotionally silly
2 : weakly and effusively sentimental

--bordering on the maudlin-- Page 65 Locked In

* invectives
Function: noun
Date: 1523
1 : an abusive expression or speech
2 : insulting or abusive language

I wished I could scream invectives, hit something... Page 98 Locked In

* caterwauling
Pronunciation: \ˈka-tÉ™r-ËŒwȯl\
Function: intransitive verb
Date: 14th century
1 : to make a harsh cry
2 : to protest or complain noisily

I don't think either of us could've taken much more of that caterwauling. Page 111 Locked In

* askance
Pronunciation: \ə-ˈskan(t)s\
Variant(s): also askant \-ˈskant\
Function: adverb
Date: circa 1530
1 : with a side-glance
2 : with disapproval or distrust

And Marcia, or the idea of Marcia, looked askance at him, as if to disclaim any such notion. Chapter 22, Corduroy Mansions

* alacrity
Pronunciation: \ə-ˈla-krə-tē\
Function: noun
Date: 15th century
1: promptness in response

She accepted with alacrity; Chapter 27 Corduroy Mansions

Take Your Best Shot by Austin Gutwein, (Founder of Hoops for Hope) and Todd Hillard




Full Description:
Discover how you can respond to God's call in your own life, whether it's in your own town or on the other side of the world.
Teen Austin Gutwein has taken his best shot several thousand times to help AIDS orphans in Africa and in the process has built a school and a medical clinic! Take Your Best Shot tells how one boy made an incredible difference in the lives of those without hope while challenging the reader to do the same.
The interactive dialogue will leave space for the reader to respond. By the end of the book, the reader will know the testimony of Austin and other teens from around the world who are committed to a life of sharing Christ’s love, and will have begun to search for God’s voice in their own lives. The book will also equip and challenge readers with information on a variety of ministries and organizations around the world to help people, animals, and the environment.

©2009

About Author:

Austin Gutwein
Because this remarkable young man decided to take action, thousands of children left behind by the AIDS epidemic now have access to food, clothing, shelter, a new school, and, finally, a medical testing facility. His story has been seen nationally on CBS Sports before the 2008 NCAA Final Four tip-off, and has been featured on The Today Show. As a speaker on the Revolve Tour, Austin reaches about 125,000 teenagers each year. He lives with his family in Phoenix, Arizona.
Austin's blog: http://www.hoopsofhope.org/blog.html
Todd Hillard
Is a freelance writer and is passionate about taking the dreams and stories of others and bringing them to life on the written page. He has seventeen years of pastoral experience and has written more than twelve books.


My Take on the Book:
For a spiritual book, I was more than entertained, I was left wanting to do something. This may have been a book for teens, but I was truly inspired by Austin, and his story. It made me look in a light, I had not before looked at. Truly inspiring, down to the Acknowledgments. My attention was captured from the very beginning, and I read, not only to finish the story, but to finish the emotion. For all the sadness this book can bring, comes the utmost joy and enlightenment. This book was well thought, and the phrasing was great! An easy to read book, for those who have a hard time staying involved. I really think Austin has the right idea!

We may not be able to change the world, but we can change one life!

I highly recommend you and your teens read. It will inspire you all, and together a difference can be made!

~I did not receive any compensation for this post. This is my honest opinion.~

Corduroy Mansions



Chapter Twenty-Six: Pantoufles

Well, Freddie de La Hay was not in this chapter either, but I'd forgotten by the end of it, how bad I wanted him to be. The new character introduced, was so dark, and full of mystery, that I didn't seem to think about my favorite little dog. I was too wrapped in the mystery that is Rog. Too bad he entered at the end of the chapter. I have to wait to learn more. Gives me some more to look forward to.

If you haven't read the previous chapters you can by my archives, or clicking this link for the website: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/corduroymansionsbyalexandermcca/

~I did not receive any compensation for this post. This is my honest opinion.~