REVIEW: Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine

Name: Mockingbird

Author: Kathryn Erskine

Publisher: Usbourne

Release date: January 2012

Pages: 223

Source:  For review 

Rating: 4 stars

11-year-old Caitlin has Asperger’s syndrome, and has always had her older brother, Devon, to explain the confusing things around her. But when Devon is killed in a tragic school shooting, Caitlin has to try and make sense of the world without him. With her dad spending most of his time crying in the shower, and her life at school becoming increasingly difficult, it doesn’t seem like things will ever get better again.     

[summary taken from Goodreads]

Beverley's Review

Mockingbird is a heart-warming tale of a young girl suffering from Asperger's syndrome and who must deal with the aftermath of her brother's death.  When Caitlin's older brother, Devon, dies in a tragic shooting, her world falls apart.  She has relied on him to give her answers and guide her way through life.  Will she ever be able to find closure?

Kathryn Erskine has created an incredibly sensitive account and brings forward a truly unique perspective.  There are books that can be enjoyable without complex characters and twisting plots, and Mockingbird is the perfect example.  The language is simple yet evocative, inducing smiles, laughs and tears.

Due to Asperger's syndrome, Caitlin sees life in a very pure and innocent way.  She views things as they are and does not look deep beneath the surface, thus the first-person narration is very naive, leading you straight into Caitlin's world to experience her perspective.  I found this to be really interesting and it gave me a greater understanding of people with Asperger's.

Because of this insight, it didn't matter to me if the plot was slow-paced.  Sweet, poignant moments cropped up every now and then, especially ones where Caitlin's only friend Michael was featured.  Also seeing Caitlin grow as a character and pull through her grief filled me with such warmth and pride as if I was watching a little sister spread her wings.

Mockingbird made me realise that even though we all live in the same world, others can view it so differently and it is our duty to embrace them and not isolate them from society.  Despite not being entirely original, Mockingbird is certainly a poignant, refreshing read, giving the reader a perceptive insight which is sure to touch their hearts.

4 teacups for Mockingbird!

*Thanks to the author and Usbourne for sending me a review copy*

Gravity Blog Tour: Review + Giveaway!

Today I am here as a participant for the Gravity Blog Tour, hosted by the lovely Shane at Itching For Books. Thanks so much for having me on this tour! I have my review of Gravity to share with you guys, as well as a giveaway! Yay! Check out the rest of the blog tour here.

Name: Gravity

Author: Melissa West

Publisher: Entangled Publishing

Release Date: October 30, 2012 (US)

Pages: 350, Paperback

Source: Received for Review (Blog Tour)

Rating: 4 Teacups

In the future, only one rule will matter:
Don’t. Ever. Peek.
Seventeen-year-old Ari Alexander just broke that rule and saw the last person she expected hovering above her bed — arrogant Jackson Locke, the most popular boy in her school. She expects instant execution or some kind of freak alien punishment, but instead, Jackson issues a challenge: help him, or everyone on Earth will die.
Ari knows she should report him, but everything about Jackson makes her question what she’s been taught about his kind. And against her instincts, she’s falling for him. But Ari isn’t just any girl, and Jackson wants more than her attention. She’s a military legacy who’s been trained by her father and exposed to war strategies and societal information no one can know — especially an alien spy, like Jackson. Giving Jackson the information he needs will betray her father and her country, but keeping silent will start a war.[summary taken from Goodreads]

Jen's Review

Prior to reading the book, I didn't really know what Gravity was about. The synopsis is a bit vague--you've got a rebellion-like thing going on, a military legacy girl who is falling in love with a guy she shouldn't be falling in love with, and a planet on the cover. Out of the world creatures, perhaps? I don't know about other readers, but I was still confused as to what this supernatural creature exactly was until nearly halfway through the book, thus causing an instant downfall in my enjoyment for the book. No one likes to be confused for THAT LONG. It took much too long for the concept to be introduced. Other than that, Gravity had an exciting plot and a kick-butt main protagonist that was able to keep my interest throughout the entire novel.

As I mentioned before, the reader doesn't find out what the supernatural creature of the novel is until about 30%-50% of the novel is done. Ancients, is what they're called. I was confused and wondering to myself for the longest time, and God knows it's the most frustrating thing ever! No reader likes to be kept in the dark for so long. It also makes it a bit difficult to enjoy the story. Not only was the identity of the creature difficult to fathom, but also "the Taking". What was its purpose? It didn't make sense to me; I think it could have been explained better.

While the concept was a bit confusing, the plot was not. In fact, the plot was really exciting and there were tons of great plot-twisting! It kept me flipping pages; I HAD to know what happened next! Melissa did a great job keeping the reader intrigued.

The best part I think was Ari, the main character. Even though her father was a Commander and she was a military legacy, Ari wasn't strong because of this. I felt like Ari was bold and strong on her own, and I totally admired that about her. While she was hesitant about being with Jackson, she wasn't ever… afraid. She was confident in what she had to get done; in other words, she's a good rebel. *oooooooh, gasp*

Overall, Gravity was a highly enjoyable novel if you are able to see past the confusing section in the beginning of novel. Rebellions, out-of-this-world creatures, and a kick butt character, Gravity is a novel that will captivate you until you finish turn the last page.

4 Teacups for Gravity!

______________________________________________________

Now for the giveaway! One lucky winner will win a signed copy of Gravity, as well as swag!

US readers only, please!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Stitch Blog Tour: Review + Giveaway!

Today I'm delighted to be taking part in the blog tour for Samantha Durante's debut book, Stitch, which is also the first in an exciting new trilogy.  For the tour, I am reviewing the book itself and there is also an opportunity for you to win an e-book copy.


Name: Stitch

Author: Samantha Durante

Publisher: Self

Release date: August 1st 2012

Pages: 314

Source:  For review (from author for blog tour) 

Rating: 4 stars

Her heart races, her muscles coil, and every impulse in Alessa's body screams at her to run... but yet she's powerless to move.
Still struggling to find her footing after the sudden death of her parents, the last thing college freshman Alessa has the strength to deal with is the inexplicable visceral pull drawing her to a handsome ghostly presence. In between grappling with exams and sorority soirees - and disturbing recurring dreams of being captive in a futuristic prison hell - Alessa is determined to unravel the mystery of the apparition who leaves her breathless. But the terrifying secret she uncovers will find her groping desperately through her nightmares for answers.

Because what Alessa hasn't figured out yet is that she's not really a student, the object of her obsession is no ghost, and her sneaking suspicions that something sinister is lurking behind the walls of her university's idyllic campus are only just scratching the surface...

[summary taken from Goodreads]

Beverley's Review

The striking premise which had such space for development was what first drew me to Stitch.  The synopsis itself had me hooked and I wondered how Samantha Durante would spin this tale of love and torment and mystery.

True to its word, Stitch spans different genres and it is difficult to classify it under a particular one.  This is perhaps what makes it so tantalizing and appealing.  Elements of paranormal and romance, sci-fi and dystopian are all thrown into the baking mix to create a pleasing cupcake of a read.  Before reading, I had reservations and suspicions that the author might be trying too hard and that the result would be a  confusing slush pile.  However, I am glad to be proven wrong and that the result was indeed a fine experience.

Another aspect which pleased me was that the potential of the premise was explored and developed.  The storyline was nothing short of complex and new discoveries were constantly made, a factor which  made my hand turn the pages frantically.  I'm still wondering how on earth Samantha Durante thought up the core idea and put it in writing... it is certainly original and unique.

However the pacing wasn't to my tastes.  The beginning of the book was slow, almost a tease.  I wasn't even sure where the story was heading and there were times where I wanted to give up on it.  But it's a book worth sticking with, no matter how hard it is to get into initially.

As the story ploughed on, I was glad to see some character development.  At the start, I didn't connect with Alessa on a deeper level.  This wasn't helped by the fact that the book is told in third-person.  I was able to watch her grow and as she recovered her fearlessness and strong desire to make things right, she became a character worth investing in and admiring but unfortunately, I still wasn't able to really connect with her.  I also wasn't convinced by the chemistry between her and Isaac so I'm hoping these points are developed further in the sequel.

All in all, Stitch is a riveting addition to the world of YA fiction and is one that will make its mark. Despite several flaws, it still succeeds in being a thoroughly enjoyable read, with complex characters and plots.  So before you overlook yet another self-published book, take a chance on Stitch.

4 teacups for Stitch!

*Thanks to the author for sending me a copy for the blog tour*

Hopefully I've enticed you enough to pick up Stitch! Wait no longer because Samantha has kindly offered an e-book copy for me to give away.  Just fill in the Rafflecopter below to be in with a chance.  The giveaway ends on November 5th 2012. (starts in about 8 hours since RC is set in EST time)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

May the odds be ever in your favour!

Showcase Sunday #8

Showcase Sunday is hosted by the lovely Vicky over atBooks, Biscuits, and Tea! It's a great way to share what you have received the past week and to also gush over the wonderful books other bloggers have added to their bookshelves!

Jen's New Books

Borrowed:

Before I Die by Jenny Downham: I already finished listening to this one on audio and it's AWESOME. Will definitely be picking up more books by Jenny soon. My review will be up soon!

Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini: I bought this on Kindle awhile ago, but I figured I would try the audio. :)

For Review:

Gravity by Melissa West: I'M SO EXCITED. :D Sounds so awesome! I've been waiting forever to read this. For blog tour!

Uses For Boys by Erica Lorraine Scheidt: This one sounds really cool, and I love the cover! Couldn't resist. :P

Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell: SERIOUSLY? The most awesome name ever, this author. And it's blurbed by Stephanie Perkins AND Gayle Forman. Yeah, it's an obvious yes for me!

MUCH thanks to Melissa West & Shane (for hosting the blog tour!), St. Martin's Press, and Netgalley!

Beverley didn't get any new books in the past two weeks because she's trying to hold out on requests as she has been swamped by school life.  But there is a way for you to cheer her up... Fill out her form HERE for an upcoming event she and Jen are currently planning!

Happy reading,
Bev and Jen x

REVIEW: If I Stay by Gayle Forman

Name: If I Stay

Author: Gayle Forman

Publisher: Dutton Juvenile//Speak

Release Date: April 2, 2009 (US)

Pages: 201, Hardcover

Source: Audiobook Library

Rating: 4 Teacups

In a single moment, everything changes. Seventeen-year-old Mia has no memory of the accident; she can only recall riding along the snow-wet Oregon road with her family. Then, in a blink, she finds herself watching as her own damaged body is taken from the wreck...
A sophisticated, layered, and heart-achingly beautiful story about the power of family and friends, the choices we all make, and the ultimate choice Mia commands.

[summary taken from Goodreads]

Jen's Review

I'm so glad to say that reading If I Stay the second time around was much more enjoyable. When I read this book previously 2 years ago, I didn't like it much at all. Music? Blegh. BOOOORING. I was particularly annoyed by books about girls in comas, too. But reading it again, I feel like I understood it so much better and it was beautiful. I was so naïve back then.

GAW-JUS WRITING

Gayle Forman's writing is definitely unique and flawless in her own way. I loved it--it's lyrical and it just WORKS, kay? It all flows together and it makes reading the story really enjoyable.

UNIQUE PLOT

If I Stay doesn't follow the usual plot line. If you have no idea what I'm talking about, I'm talking the beginning- climax- solution thing. If I Stay kind of has two stories going on, if you will. Some present day happenings at the hospital, but mostly memories of Mia's past. While the plot wasn't FAST PACED or anything, it's calm and still great. Again, it just WORKS OUT.

GENUINE CHARACTERS

I really could connect with the characters. While Mia and I have no similarities, I liked her still. Her love for music and the cello was passionate and eye-opening. Let's not forget about Mia's family and friends--I couldn't have asked for a better cast of characters. They were all so wonderful!

In all, If I Stay is a must-read contemporary novel for music fans, or heart-wrenching lovers. You won't want to miss out on Forman's beautiful writing style, exclusive plot, and authentic characters!

Audiobook review: My first impression of the audio was that the performer's voice was too old and mature for Mia's voice. But after awhile, I realized that it was perfect and soothing, and it totally made the book THAT much better. Definitely check out the audio if you can!

4 Teacups for If I Stay!

Waiting on Wednesday #10

Waiting on Wednesday is a fabulous meme hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine!  It's a wonderful chance to share the books we're eagerly anticipating and to find out what our fellow bloggers are looking forward to reading!

Jen's eagerly anticipating...

To want what you’re not supposed to have…
She is only nineteen.
She is his new stepfather’s daughter. 
She is still naïve and innocent due to spending the last three years taking care of her sick mother. 
But for twenty-four year old Rush Finlay, she is the only thing that has ever been off limits. His famous father’s guilt money, his mother’s desperation to win his love, and his charm are the three reasons he has never been told no.
Blaire Wynn left her small farmhouse in Alabama, after her mother passed away, to move in with her father and his new wife in their sprawling beach house along the Florida gulf coast. She isn’t prepared for the lifestyle change and she knows she’ll never fit into this world. Then there is her sexy stepbrother who her father leaves her with for the summer while he runs off to Paris with his wife. Rush is as spoiled as he is gorgeous. He is also getting under her skin. She knows he is anything but good for her and that he’ll never be faithful to anyone. He is jaded and has secrets Blaire knows she may never uncover but even knowing all of that…
Blaire just may have fallen too far.

GUYS. I haven't read anything by Abbi yet but I SO NEED TO. These New Adult contemporary romances are my guilty pleasures. LIKE HARDCORE. And this one sounds amazing! And that cover is SO summer-y and pretty. And... steamy. ;) Coming out December 2012!

Bev's eagerly anticipating...

He makes good girls...bad.
Dante Walker is flippin’ awesome, and he knows it. His good looks, killer charm, and stellar confidence has made him one of hell’s best—a soul collector. His job is simple, weed through humanity and label those round rears with a big red good or bad stamp. Old Saint Nick gets the good guys, and he gets the fun ones. Bag-and-tag.
Sealing souls is nothing personal. Dante’s an equal opportunity collector and doesn’t want it any other way. But he’ll have to adjust, because Boss Man has given him a new assignment:
Collect Charlie Cooper’s soul within 10 days.
Dante doesn’t know why Boss Man wants Charlie, nor does he care. This assignment means only one thing to him, and that’s a permanent ticket out of hell. But after Dante meets the quirky, Nerd Alert chick he’s come to collect—he realizes this assignment will test his abilities as a collector, and uncover emotions deeply buried.

I've been waiting for this since I saw the cover reveals on all the blogs!  I don't know about you but the guy on the cover is... HOT. And then I read the blurb.  A hot guy who steals souls.  Oh my god, just give me this already!!!! The protagonist is called Dante, for goodness sake! DANTE...

What are you anticipating this week? Link us up!

Happy reading,
Beverley and Jen xxx

REVIEW: Saving June by Hannah Harrington

Name: Saving June

Author: Hannah Harrington

Publisher: Mira Ink

Release date: June 1st 2012

Pages: 336 

Source:  For review from publisher (via Net Galley)

Rating: 5 stars

Your sister is dead. Nineteen songs can tell you why. Only one boy can help you understand.
Harper Scott's older sister, June, took her own life a week before high school graduation, leaving Harper devastated. So when her divorcing parents decide to split up June's ashes, Harper steals the urn and takes off cross-country with her best friend, Laney, to the one place June always dreamed of going-California.
Enter Jake Tolan, a boy with a bad attitude, a classic-rock obsession...and an unknown connection to June. When he insists on joining them, Harper's just desperate enough to let him. With his alternately charming and infuriating demeanour and his belief that music can see you through anything, he might be exactly what Harper needs. Except...Jake's keeping a secret that has the power to turn her life upside down again.

[summary taken from Goodreads]

Beverley's Review

Saving June is an achingly beautiful novel of a girl desperate to piece together the broken fragments of her life.  Her sister's sudden suicide leaves her with an endless list of unanswered questions: Did she really know June?  Could she have stopped it?

The questions and grief and not knowing what to do next lead her to Jake, a mysterious boy whose nature of connection with June is unknown.  With her best friend, Laney, they take off on a summer road-trip in a bid to scatter June's ashes in California, a place she dreamed of visiting before her death.

Saving June is definitely not a light-hearted read, it is heart-wrenching and tear-inducing.  It will take you on an emotional rollercoaster filled with love, loss, friendship and grief.  The best part of the book, for me, was the powerful emotions conveyed in each page.  Hannah Harrington writes sensitively yet realistically and deals with the topic of suicide wonderfully.  Her writing completely overwhelmed me and there were parts where I just felt choked; I was amazed by her ability to describe the pain and angst so vividly.

Therefore, sympathising with the characters wasn't difficult.  Harper is a likeable character with whom I empathised from the start.  I came to understand her grief and how hard life was for her and I wanted so desperately for her to find closure.  Thankfully, she had the most amazing best friend by her side.  Laney is one of those friends people spend their whole lives wishing for.  Her selfless, caring personality filled me with such admiration for her as a person.

The road trip had it highs and lows and they had some pretty crazy encounters.  What I loved was that Jake really grew on me as the journey progressed. Both Harper and I learnt more about him and I came to appreciate his honest, sensitive side.  Unfortunately he didn't make my list of potential book boyfriends but this is only because he's the sort of guy who would make a better friend, someone who will listen and lend you a shoulder to cry on.

Throw in loveable characters, witty narration, a wild road trip and buckets of emotion and you get Saving June.  It has all the elements of an enjoyable read, plus more.  Hannah Harrington has crafted such a heart-breakingly raw story out of something so devastating and life-shattering: a novel which has made my Favourite Contemporaries of the Year list.  Saving June will make you think and most importantly, help you realise that you shouldn't take your loved ones for granted.

5 teacups for Saving June!

*Thanks to Mira Ink for providing me with an e-copy via Netgalley*