Sometimes you just have to throw in the towel...

It's important to remember that you're not always going to like everything that you read and that you shouldn't be too hard on yourself if this happens.

I've been trying my darndest to get through Casual Vacancy by JK Rowling because of the absolutely wonderful experience of the Harry Potter series.  However, her newest book was not AT ALL my cup of tea.  I made it about halfway through it and I just couldn't bear to read one more word.  There wasn't a single character that I could relate to and I didn't find any of them all that likable.  It's difficult to make it through a novel with a host of characters if you can't attach yourself to any single story line for the duration of the book.  Sooooo I gave up and decided it was best if I just moved on.

And move on I did!  One of my friends encouraged me to try a graphic novel interpretation of a book that I've adored ever since I was a child: A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle.  It was adapted and illustrated by Hope Larson.  I'm not a fan of graphic novels.  This is my third attempt and I would have to say it's been the most successful.  I breezed right through it mostly because I'm so familiar with the content of the narrative.  However, I have to say that I wasn't all that impressed.  A lot of the magic was lost in this adaptation and the writing was pretty abominable.  As I said, this was my third attempt at graphic novels and I believe it will be my last.

For Christmas/graduation, I received several books.  I've decided to barrel my way through these before I tackle my overflowing bookshelves.  Next on the agenda is The Ever-After Bird by Ann Rinaldi.  My good friend, and fellow librarian, has highly recommended this YA author who specializes in historical fiction.  This book is about a young girl who learns firsthand what it means to be an abolitionist on the Underground Railroad.  I can't wait to give it a read and give YOU the review!!

Happy reading everyone!!

PS To all of you who have stuck with me on this journey, I really appreciate it!! :-)

HALLELUJAH!!

I'VE FINISHED IT!!!

Okay, if you're just tuning in you might be a tad confused.  I started reading a book (which was on hold at the library which meant waiting weeks to get it) a while back titled Parade's End.  When I first got it, I was unaware of how difficult of a read it would be owing to writing style, dialect, and story line.  Also, the fact that it was four books in one volume (total of 906 pages with minuscule type) didn't help matters.  So I only finished the first book when it was due back at the library...where it was on hold.  Therefore, I had to wait over a month to get the book back and pick up where I left off.  BUT I'M FINISHED!!

The review: I must say that this might be one of the most difficult works I've read.  I can't decide if it's Ford's writing style or his dialogue that I found most perplexing.  I would say that if you're wanting to give this one a whirl make sure that you're prepared and that you stock up on patience.  The story was a riveting one which was the impetus for continuing all the way to the end (and I'm no quitter!).  The ending, however, fell short.  I feel like it ended too suddenly (which is saying something when it's 906 pages).  I don't feel satisfied.  I like having an ending where all the loose ends are tied up neatly.  Not entirely sure I got that with this one.

In the interim when I was waiting on the book to be in my possession again I started reading Casual Vacancy by JK Rowling (have I mentioned this already?).  Another book with a LOT of plot and a TON of characters.  I'll have to figure out where I left off with that one so that I can finish it and write it up for you guys.  The past two months have been busy but I'm hopeful after the holidays to pick up the pace.

Hope you are all doing well and READING!

When the storm comes knocking, I get to reading

Well, the good thing about being stuck in the house is that I get stuff done.  :-)  I've finished up Jane Austen: The World of Her Novels by Deirdre Le Faye and I must say it's put me in the mood for some classic literature.  It's also made me realize that there are two works by Jane that I haven't read: Sanditon and The Watsons which were published together as Minor Works.  I've already added it to my wish list. ;-)  One of the best things about this book was how it tied together everything from the time period with actual paintings.  Also, the accounts from Jane's family about what she thought of the characters and how their lives might have changed after the ends of her books was fascinating.

Next on the agenda is JK Rowling's next creation, Casual Vacancy.  I'm a huge Potterhead so I have to say that I have high expectations for her first work for adults.  I know the bare minimum (which is the way I like to start off a new novel) about this book.  It's set in a small English village and there's an opening on the council (hence the vacancy).  The book is more political than Harry Potter (although it wasn't devoid of subtle political references) and sticks to the normal rather than the paranormal. As I said, I have high expectations but I'll be sure to report my findings be they ill or favorable to you all.

Happy reading and if you're on the east coast like me STAY SAFE (and read a book)!