New booklist. I don't know if I'll be sorting additionally by author or title, but for now, here are the books I've read with corresponding reviews and such. Simple, right?
Books of the Bible read: Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Nahum, Habbkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi
Total points: 230.5
Heaven's Wager by Ted Dekker
I suppose reading this the second time lost some of the magic as compared to the first time I read this novel. Loved how Kent planned his grand larceny, and the very human struggles that he went through. This book has enough human moments that it would provide strong material for discussion in an English class. However, the book ended a little quicker than I would have liked, explaining the three stars out of four... not one of Ted Dekker's best works, but an engrossing read nonetheless.
Thunder of Heaven by Ted Dekker
A slightly shorter read than Heaven's Wager, but despite rereading this I still feel the happy/tingly feeling that comes with reading about such true love. Not the romantic mushy type, but the love that brings you to your knees because it's so breathtaking. It's easy to lose yourself in such jungles, as presented by Ted Dkker. A more satisfying twist to the end of this book, and it can't be called a deus ex machina; looking back over the book, you realize it's entirely possible.
When Heaven Weeps by Ted Dekker
It's reading these types of books that make me feel I can keep on loving the way I've been taught. This book made me want to cry, partially because parts of it reflect what I've been going through personally lately, and it encourages to keep on going regardless. I think I've found my life motto, really... after a period of self-reflection the other day, I decided it would be 'Give everything. Expect nothing. No matter what.' because Jesus gave up everything and asked for nothing, except that we accept His gift. In the same way, I want to be able to give up everything, holding back nothing, so long as it's for the best of the other person. Such a story of grace... *sigh* excellent read for all times of the year.
Obsessed by Ted Dekker
Good. I always enjoy stories with some connection to the Holocaust, simply because the Holocaust was such a defining moment for mankind. A little farfetched in emotion, in that Stephen truly becomes obsessed with a girl based on her picture. Then again, weirder things have been written. Dekker's strong belief in passionate love past life is once against a central theme of this book. This book is also a good read for those who like spreading it out over a couple days; compared to his other books, this is not a "can't-stop-thriller" but a book able to be read at any pace. Cheers on reading this one.
Skin by Ted Dekker
Alright, I have to admit this book was a little creepy when I first read it.
But now I reread it and really enjoy every part of it, simply because there's always some part of the ending that eludes my memory and does not fail to surprise me. Good read... maybe not on a dark and stormy night, but good suspense story nevertheless.
Horror on River Road by Roy MacGregor
Mm, this book was alright. Yeah, I'm starting in the middle of the series because my buzigo borrowed from the middle - will have to read 1 - 13 to be able to say I've completed the series up to the most recent book published...
The Owls have little involvement in the actual solving of the case; what really happens is that they stumble onto the right clues and evidence needed for a happy ending. Nevertheless, I always enjoy a good Screech Owl book (= darn it though, there are swears, and it's a children's book. Loss of points =w=
Death Down Under by Roy MacGregor
A solid three out of five hockey pucks, in my opinion. Wiz&Sarah made me say "Aww! They sound so cute together!" and Nish's unexpected, but awesome, synchronized dives with Sam had me laughing. It kinda makes you wonder if Sam and Nish will get together later on in the series =P although the thought, if ever introduced to them at their current age, would be enough to make both of them yell "I'M GONNA HUURRRRLLLL!"
Power Play in Washington by Roy MacGregor
*teehee* This book was cute. I love how there are definitely the odds of a small team from Canada getting involved in a plot against the President of the United States, yet Mr. MacGregor makes it sound fairly reasonable and straightforward. Not too many deus ex machinas in his writing style =) and you really have to ask - how is one supposed to wear cufflinks with a birthday suit?
Secret of the Deep Woods by Roy MacGregor
Sometimes you really can't tell who likes who in this series. Travis has a thing for Rachel AND Sarah? Sam and Nish obviously make a good couple, but neither of them are willing to admit it. And Roy MacGregor doesn't budge - he knows this isn't a soap opera and concentrates on short sweet plots and bits of dry humour that, when described, aren't that funny, but when read, keep you giggling to yourself for a time.
Murder at the Winter Games by Roy MacGregor
Aw, losing Ebenezer Durk made me want to hug my teddy bear for a bit of comfort. I suspect that we all have an elderly person like him in our lives - and I'm glad that Nish buried his you-know-what at centre ice in memory of the man, though fictional they both are =P Cute read - Brody Prince sounds cute too, but what else would you expect from a Hollywood child?
Attack on the Tower of London by Roy MacGregor
I like books with settings in the UK. No idea why, but they make me feel happy without words needed to describe the surroundings. Just tell me the book's set in Europe and I'm happy already =P alright, not happy, amused. It seems to me though, Edward Rose isn't too rare in looks - a lot of publicized English males bear some resemblance to the royal family (wouldn't that be why they are publicized?) Bloody biscuits made me squirm a little, but Nish made me laugh it off.
The Screech Owls' Reunion by Roy MacGregor
When I first read this book and realized it sounded like it would be the last, I was sad. Obviously! I love this series, for all it's worth. Interesting to note that Mr. MacGregor's perception of the Owls changes little, despite ten years time having passed since the breakup of the original team. Then again, I suppose we all are still the children we used to be, at heart. Touching read - and we have yet to wonder whether Travis is going to be with Sarah or Rachel, although my bet is now on Sarah.
Peril at the World's Biggest Hockey Tournament by Roy MacGregor
- also titled Conspiracy at the Capital City Cup
Mm, this book was all right. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed the plotline, and thought Roy MacGregor was quite brave to try a slightly different approach to the story. I have to say though, the diary of the mystery man gave away too many clues, being a little over dramatized and clich�M. Good for a children's read, really, because following Roy's example will set them on the path to writing intriguing stories. A little bit of a throw off when Nish tries to strangle Travis - there are few recorded incidents of Nish physically hurting Travis, even in his anger. Nevertheless, interesting read - it kept distracting me from my sewing (=
The Martyr's Song by Ted Dekker
"When Heaven Weeps" is really the better read, this being a small sampling of what the real story should be. Found that, without the supporting story or development of characters, Dekker's writing comes across as a little whacky. Definitely better read in context with the aforementioned novel; I also disliked the fact that a song was actually written, but that's a personal opinion, simply because I'd rather leave it to the imagination. Not a bad read, but like I said, it might come across as a little 'far out' without the supporting goodies.
Saint by Ted Dekker
Heh. I rather like the idea of being able to affect your surroundings with the power of your mind. A little crazy, but nothing too farfetched compared to Dekker's 'other works'. Still have yet to read the first book 'Showdown' - I suspect pieces will fall into place if I read that book first and then this book; nevertheless, this is a great read with an interesting ending.
Black by Ted Dekker
Yes, I realize I could just copy and paste my review from last year to achieve this. But that wouldn't be fair, would it? Plagiarizing from the 'Histories', haha. Borrowing this from the library, I realized I accidentally signed out the 'large print edition' (recommended for seniors everywhere!) - therefore, I am cutting the number of pages in half, to compensate (and to avoid 'cheating', according to my buzigo). Good beginning to the Circle Trilogy; Rachelle/Monique got on my nerves in the beginning (but it's harder to like same-gender characters than it is to like the opposite gender =P), but I got used to them quickly.
Red by Ted Dekker
Other things I didn't mention in my review of Black: I adore the Roush, and I really wish I could roundhouse kick like Rachelle or Thomas. Or Mikil, for that matter; she's my favourite character. Mm, this book was alright... near the end, you feel as if it's drawing to a close and you wonder how on earth Dekker is supposed to draw it on for another book. Then what happens happens and you realize there's more that needs to be solved.
White by Ted Dekker
Another series bonus! Really enjoyed Ted Dekker's use of parallelism between Chelise's (oops, can't give it away!) and Thomas' (can't give that away either!). Anyways, the parallelism was noted and enjoyed (among other things, haha). Finishing the book this afternoon gave me such a happy feeling - really neat how Dekker is able to convey some of the love God's got for us. Elyon's strength, yes?
Leaping Beauty by Gregory Maguire
"... by the author of the national best-seller Wicked!" Yep, that's what I keep on seeing on all the books that I picked up by Gregory Maguire. Sadly enough, this book seems to be the only one for which I care for his prose. Full of dry humour, in some places, a little too dry for my tastes, I thought Maguire did a good job of modifying the various fairy tales into the odd spoofs that resulted. Several spoofs later though, I was a little spoofed out. Good book for random humour - take it in chunks and you'll have a good week.
Sandry's Book by Tamora Pierce
I read this series in my junior high years and absolutely adored Briar. I read this series now, and realize I adore Briar and Sandry. Daja is admired and Tris is put up with... I don't see why she should get Niko to herself so much =P but that's just a notion flitting through my head. Like this book because of the lack of severe teenage angst and the comforting feelings it brings... I'm off to hunt down the rest of the series through our public library system =w=.
Hatchet by Gary Paulsen
You gotta admit Brian's the type of guy that you'd laugh at, at school. The old Brian, anyways. The new Brian's the type of guy that I'd admire... something inspiring about being able to push past the mental barriers to accomplish the physical. Part of me still wishes it were a real story, so that I could know there was just one more incredible person out there. What really catches me about this book is that the character grows, and not only through your typical "I-became-a-better-person"... the book doesn't define his changes as totally good or totally bad, but you see that he changes, and that he grows in realizing himself. And that's something that most of us can hopefully connect to, whether it's getting past thinking life is hopeless (leading to suicide), or pulling through the divorce, or fighting to survive, whether in the urban or the wilderness.
Daja's book by Tamora Pierce
Ieh. Not a bad book at all, although why Ms. Pierce didn't give more character to the villain I don't know. Then again, the series is meant to focus on the children and their powers, so it's not very much a big deal. Good, short story dealing with social hierarchies, differences and acceptance of one another. Tamora uses the magic of her world to invent contraptions similar to those of our world - I was pleasantly surprised to read about Daja's crafted leg.
Briar's book by Tamora Pierce
Sometimes I wonder if anyone else notices the lines between platonic and romantic relationships being blurred - namely those of the students and their teachers. Tamora Pierce chooses also to step into some sketchy area in the last novel of the Circle of Magic series, as Sandry, Tris, Daja and Briar rescue Rose from death. I disagree with her stance on the afterlife, but the book is in itself an enjoyable read.
Alanna - The First Adventure by Tamora Pierce
I like the idea of having an 'identical twin', albeit one of the opposite gender. Actually, it would probably be more fun with twins of opposing genders - more trouble to get into. The plotline is easy enough to follow, however, it doesn't bear the initial hook for me to really get into a series. Suppose I'll continue reading for the points and the bonus.
In the Hand of the Goddess by Tamora Pierce
Alright, this wasn't the most interesting of reads. The storyline was pieced together and a little sketchy (sketchy seems to be a good word to describe some works of Ms. Pierce) and my respect for Alanna as a character really dissolved when she gave up her sexual integrity. Funny how most girls are introduced to this series during their elementary years/early junior high years - Alanna really isn't the best model.
The Woman Who Rides Like a Man by Tamora Pierce
Again, my lack of respect further waned reading this continuation in the Song of the Lioness series. Sleeping around really tarnishes your image, even if you are a renowned warrior, a rare fighting machine or simply an intelligent individual. I'm hoping that the last book will be interesting enough to make up for her lack of personal integrity.
The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
This is simply the most "awesomest" book I have ever read! That is, aside from the Lord of the Rings and the Chronicles of Narnia. Alexandre Dumas does a fantastic job keeping action up throughout the story and using intrigue and suspense right up to the very last page - all 1462 pages of the story. Rare talent makes it a no-brainer as to why this book has remained a well-loved classic; I can only imagine what it must have been like during the time this adventure was written, waiting for every edition to come out for the next installment in the Count's adventures.
Reading this book reminded me a lot about what was happening in my life, rather, what is still happening in my life. I'm sure I'll be referring back to this book a lot in the future. M. Dumas skillfully infuses fairly respectable principles and values into the character of Edmond Dantes, up to the point where M. le Comte realizes it's not really in our place to be the avenging angel or the hand of Providence. Truly, and wonderfully, we need only to live our God-given purpose, and wait and hope.
Salamandastron by Brian Jacques
- is a very difficult name to pronounce, apparently. For those familiar with Brian Jacques' books however, it is a name that brings badgers and truly excellent hares to mind. I enjoyed the reunion of the badger brothers in this Redwall episode, despite the tragic circumstances. Dumble made me laugh and Thrugg the Otter was as valiant and stouthearted as ever, though I think he'd prefer a table of food instead of such praises. Good read, reminding children to be thankful for parent(s)/parental figures in their lives.
Taggerung by Brian Jacques
- is yet another oddly-named book (where does Mr. Jacques come up with his names?), yet fits the mood of the book. Taggerung! I believe this book to be one of my favourite in all of the Redwall series, the other favourites being the original Redwall, Marlfox, the Pearls of Lutra and the Bellmaker. The thought of a super-fast, super-strong, super-smart otter is really cool... haha, alright, like a superhero. I've always been a sucker for good noble superhero stories, especially misunderstood superheroes. Fun read.
Tris's Book by Tamora Pierce
When reading the first book in this series, I disliked Tris the most at first meeting. After reading this book, I figure my perspective hasn't changed much - she's not my favourite character (Sandry and Briar, anyone?) Tris' powers are alright, I suppose; imagine being able to control the weather! I empathized with her during the betrayal of her cousin as it reminded me of a recent personal experience (though, not involving any pirates, haha), and was glad that she was also able to forgive despite her hurt. Finally, I finish the Circle of Magic series (yes, I know I was out of order).
Wizard's Hall by Jane Yolen
I really enjoyed this book. The first time I came across it was probably in my elementary years, or something like that. I can't recall if I finished reading it though, so I'm glad I did so this time. Thornmallow - prickly on the outside and squishy on the inside, is a likeable character, avoiding any long passages of prose describing his aptitude at anything, mainly because he lacks much aptitude in, well, anything. The plot feels a little rushed, but that's understandable in a children's novel. And Jane Yolen does more than try, as she accomplishes a delightful read in this slightly (very slightly, mind you) sarcastic tale of a wizard. All the same though, it's important that she tried.
Lioness Rampant by Tamora Pierce
Alanna commands very little respect from me in her series. Time periods are recorded somewhat erratically and her willingness to sleep with yet another man really made me want to give her a good slap in the face. Maybe two. If she was worth more than the "kitten" Shang described her as, she'd root herself in that and only give herself to one man. I wasn't very surprised as to her romantic choice in the end; the other conclusion of Roger of Conte didn't surprise much either, because he had to die; no villain lives happy in these fairytales. All in all, this was one of the few books written by Tamora Pierce that earned a 'meh' from me.
Charlotte's Web by E.B. White
I love reading books from my elementary days, if you haven't realized that by now. Charlotte's Web is such a simply spun (pardon the pun) tale, involving friendship and truly appreciation for the wide, wide world. A Jack Johnson song or two would probably make a fitting soundtrack for the book, and the line of merchandise issuing from the production of the film should include pillows, sheets and plushies. Oh wait; the film's already been made, with nary a note of Mr. Johnson, and while there are plushies, I have yet to see pillows and sheets with Wilbur and Fern upon them. Oh well, one can dream, with such a beautiful tale as foundation.
The River by Gary Paulsen
The part I most enjoyed from this book was probably where Brian decided to leave all the modern necessities. I'd love to go camping like he did, only, I'd have such a low percentage of surviving compared to him. Rising action, climax, denouement - Gary Paulsen delivers a rather straightforward story with his satisfyingly straightforward style.
Brian's Hunt by Gary Paulsen
I really wasn't expecting the mauling of humans in this book. Shock to you, too? Mr. Paulsen's style of prose is extremely appreciated in this book, bringing every detail as succinctly to the reader as possible, similar to a news report, yet he manages to flesh out such raw structure with Brian's human emotion. Simple words, big feelings; Mr. Paulsen's bagged another well-written book.
Brian's Return by Gary Paulsen
While I disagree with the 'medecine' part, I empathize strongly with Brian's longing for nature, and the woods. However, I'm sure he'd feel stronger; I haven't become totally numb to this modern world, being born in it and immersed in it everyday, with little chance of escape. The closest I came to Mother Nature was probably during an outdoor camp in my junior high years, where ten minutes (or was it half an hour) of pure, unadulterated silence was given to us by our group leader, to sit in nature and be one with the grass, the wind, and the trees. The water in the lake barely rippled, the bugs crawled over us and the sun shone upon our necks, and everything felt so immensely perfect. Brian's itch for the woods awoke my longing to get out of the suburbs once again; Gary Paulsen demonstrates a deft hand in crafting worded emotions.
The Dark is Rising by Susan Cooper
This isn't the first book of the series, but I believe it was the first book I read in my elementary years (I read a lot from grades 3 - 6, believe it or not). Will Stanton is quite possibly my favourite character throughout the series, and he begins in this book as a innocent boy who morphs, as the strain of Sign-seeking and being an Old One become real to him. I was about to watch the movie (The Seeker), but upon seeing the movie-Will plug in a pair of earbuds I shut off the movie. Somehow Will fits, as an English boy in the English country, and no movie so far can better him as he is in the books.
Greenwitch by Susan Cooper
Three cheers for Jane Drew and her loving nature! This book simply goes to show that being unselfish and putting others first is a desirable virtue, and that wishing for others (in real life case, it would be praying for others) is quite admirable. I imagine Jane, being the humble soul she is, would not have imagined that her care would have stretched so far, and changed the outcome of this battle against the Dark in so much.
The Grey King by Susan Cooper
Somehow I remember the most of this book from my elementary years; as I read, certain phrases rang back at me and I found myself repeating many of the Welsh words as best I could, probably in the same fashion that my grade four (or grade five?) self would have done so when reading this book for the first time. Lovely read, simply lovely. And Bran seems to be a good name for one of my sons (=
Silver on the Tree by Susan Cooper
Huzzah! The Light... oh alright, I wouldn't give away the ending. For all you know, I could say "the Light hath won!" or "the Light hath perished!", either of them just as easily. That's right. I could be an agent of the Dark all along, and you reading my reviews would only be brainwashed into the teachings of the Dark. In any case, I am glad for the Pendragon and the 'return of the king' (haha, another Tolkien reference, in addition to the many references from the reviews for Susan Cooper's series), and am doubly glad for the references to Tolkien. Three cheers for (shan't say it, as I could say "Will Stanton, Bran, the Drews and Merriman" or "the Black Rider, the White Rider and the pale blue lord" or "the Greenwitch!" just as easily).
Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
First off, I really, really wanted to read this, thanks to my grade 11 teacher M. Comeau. About two-thirds of the way through, there suddenly appeared many cases of profanity, in most cases, the word d---. I ignored most of them blissfully, at first reading anyways, and only noticed it when I looked back on the page (I'm the type of reader that scans the page and rereads it for detail when I think I've missed something important). I figured there were more than enough instances to merit myself a -5 for the book. Interesting concepts though, and Ray Bradbury is definitely an intriguing author. I also question why Hugh Hefner shows up in so many literary circles; you wonder how the Playboy King gets into them in the first place. Good read; I'd love to buy a copy, run through the swears with a black highlighter and lend it out for a thought-provoking read. One more note: ironically, there are Biblical quotes in this book. Queer.
The Door Within by Wayne Thomas Batson
The first book in this series reads like a high-schooler excited about writing his first novel. No, make that junior-high schooler. Or precocious elementary child. Mr. Batson creates a world that is slightly reminiscent of Tolkien, but without the fruitful detail that sets Tolkien apart from so many others. Wayne Batson's boldness in allegory though, sets him apart from many authors, and provides a creative perspective in viewing Christianity and its core beliefs.
The Final Storm by Wayne Thomas Batson
Mr. Batson redeems himself from the adolescent label in this final book; I could actually feel some tension building near the last chapters, and even manages to sprinkle in a bit of romance with Kaliam and Lady Merewen. Once again, his bold attitude in approaching even the End Times is admirable and quite creative. I was saddened at Falon's passing, and finished the book with King Eliam and Alleble's brave and memorable phrase, "Never alone." Good trilogy, good reads, all of them, and definitely something I'd ask my children to read, just as I would them to C.S. Lewis' The Chronicles of Narnia.
The Prince and The Pauper by Mark Twain
This read stretched on longer than I imagined it would. Nevertheless, Mark Twain delivers an easy-to-read, easy-to-understand story that should delight children for ages to come. His care and attention to the details of English life, especially the English nobility, adds to the attraction to this novel and his unexpected quirks make the story a bit like a scoop of cookie-dough ice cream: you bite into the chunks of dough and surprise! it's a delicious shock that you didn't really expect, until you reach the next chunk to bite into. Lovely, lovely, lovely. Good ending, too.
