Book Lovers Only

I am very sorry I have not been updating my blog on a fairly normal basis (stupid Facebook!) but I will try to continue to update! Part of the problem these past few weeks is I've been insanely busy, which will hopefully settle down now, I will get better at my updates. Yes, I know this SOTW is 4 days late (sorry!) but...I think you've gotten the point.

Thanks to a good friend of mine, Glee is now one my new favorite shows, mostly because the music is awesome! This is my favorite track from the CDs; I love the sound of it!!

Song Title: Keep Holding On
Artist: Glee Cast
Album: Glee: The Music, Volume 1

Listen On!
Yours Truly

P.S. If you're looking for a great blogs by a great person, read these...
http://emsrandomness.wordpress.com/
http://thewitchnextdoor.wordpress.com/
Go ahead. I DARE you! :)

Book Title: Girl with a Pearl Earring
Author: Tracy Chevalier
Amazon.com Link: http://www.amazon.com/Pearl-Earring-Deluxe-Tracy-Chevalier/dp/0452287022/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1263654909&sr=8-1
Quick Notes: A young girl goes to work as a maid in the artist Johannes Vermeer's household.
For Fans Of: historical fiction, Dutch history, art, art history
My Overall Rating: B+

Pithy Comments: I found this book very enjoyable. I love art history, so I loved that aspect of it. As with many historical fiction novels (except with Distant Waves) I always want to know more as to what is fictional and what isn't. I was especially curious because I love the art part of this book. The only thing that I didn't like was that there wasn't much info on what happened near the end. I wish that Chevalier had included more about what happens later on. I enjoyed this look at the Dutch culture and how thing's worked.

The Big Picture: A good read, maybe a little more detail.

Read On!
Yours Truly

Next Up: At First Sight by Nicholas Sparks

This is one of my ultra-favorite songs and I thought it would be very appropriate for my love of Jane Eyre.

Song Title: Turn to Stone
Artist: Ingrid Michaelson

Listen On!
Yours Truly

Book Title: 1984
Author: George Orwell
Amazon.com link: http://www.amazon.com/1984-Signet-Classics-George-Orwell/dp/0451524934/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1262991880&sr=8-1
Quick Notes: Orwell's prediction of London in the future (when it was 1984)
For Fans Of: science fiction, futuristic stories, classic novels
My Overall Rating: B

Pithy Comments: This book was an interesting read. Orwell's view of the future is bleak and disturbing, but the book is powerful and keeps you interested. I was a little creeped out by the similarities between this book and our lives nowadays (especially the telescreens and the media bias). However, Orwell is an excellent writer and the characters were developed and cool. I have to admit, the part of the book I found most interesting was Winston's fascination with the past. These people know nothing of the past. I would hate to live like that.

The Big Picture: A good read but a bit disturbing.

Read On!
Yours Truly

Next Up:  Girl with a Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier

Movie Title: Yes Man
Year: 2008
Director: Peyton Reed
Actors: Jim Carrey, Zooey Deschanel, Bradley Cooper
IMDB: CLICK HERE
Overall Rating: A

This movie is about Carl Allen (Jim Carrey), a loser who says no to everything and is almost anti-social. Anyways, he makes a covenant to always say Yes and it gets him into some pretty messed up situations. I thought this movie was really funny and not at all boring. It was hilarious how crazy things got when Carl said yes to everything. Zooey Deschanel was amazing as Jim Carrey's quircky girlfriend. I loved the humor and was definitely worthwhile!

Favorite Part: When Jim Carrey and Zooey Deschanel attend Norman's Harry Potter themed party. It was fabulous!

Watch On!
Yours Truly

Hey everyone! This week's song of the week is a song I've loved FOREVER and for me it's a therapy song. If you haven't heard it, FIND IT AND DOWNLOAD IT NOW! Anyways, sorry I'm a little late on the SOTW posting. I have (as stated on my status) succumbed to peer pressure and now have a Facebook. Therefore, I have felt less of a need to write on my blog. However, don't feel rejected, I'm keeping up the best I can. :)

Song Title: Wake Me Up When September Ends
Artist: Green Day
Album: American Idiot

Listen On!
Yours Truly

Movie Title: Jane Eyre
Year: 1996
Director: Franco Zeffirelli
Actors: William Hurt, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Joan Plowright, Anna Paquin
IMDB: CLICK HERE
Based Upon: the novel "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Bronte
Overall Rating: B-

This movie is based on the book (see previous entry) by Charlotte Bronte. The movie started off good, following closely with the original, but by the time Jane arrives at Thornfield, this movie distanced itself from the book. The ending, especially, was messed up. I'm not going to go into many specific details for those who haven't read this book, but at least know that if you're looking for a truthful adaptation of this book, check out the Masterpiece Theatre version instead.

Favorite Part: I'd have to say the beginning where Helen and Jane both get their hair chopped off. It was so cute seeing Jane stand up for Helen.

Watch On!
Yours Truly

Book Title: Jane Eyre
Author: Charlotte Bronte
Amazon.com Link: http://www.amazon.com/Jane-Vintage-Classics-Charlotte-Bronte/dp/030745519X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1262362374&sr=1-1
Quick Notes: An orphaned governess goes to live at Thornfield Hall to take care of the dashing Mr. Rochester's young ward.
For Fans Of: Historical Fiction, Jane Austen, Classic Novels
My Overall Rating: A+

Pithy Comments: This book was one the best books I've ever read. I was familiar with the story, but I never would have expected this book to be so good. The story is compelling and unique; very unexpected and interesting. The writing is detailed (sometimes too much for my taste) but Bronte's use of language is flawless. After reading this book, I wanted to read it again!! It's a great read for anyone who loves a good romance or mystery story! Read it, NOW!!!!!!!!!!!

The Big Picture: A must read for anyone who loves a good book!!

Read On!
Yours Truly

Next Up: 1984 by George Orwell

Can you believe it's already 2010??? Hope everyone has a fantastic new year and we'll see what 2010 throws our way!!

"And a happy new year to all that is living, to all that is gentle, kind, and forgiving."

Read On!
Yours Truly