AS: Sue Wyshynski's Poser + Giveaway!

Sue Wyshynski wrote a 10/10 book called Poser, and I was very excited to get her answers. Poser is..well, by the title, you should know what it's about. Read my review of Poser here! Also check out her website here. She's so generous to give out 3 signed copies for you guys to win! This contest ends on October 10th (just because I like 10/10/2010), and it's US only (sorry, international readers...) ENTER HERE!!!
*apologize for the colors, I can't fix it somehow...@.@


My original questions...

1. What is(are) your favorite book(s)?

Wow, I think this is the hardest question ever. There are so many good books out there. Off the top of my head, a few favorites are: Snow Crash (Neal Stephenson), Little Women (Louisa May Alcott), Uglies Series (Scott Westerfeld), 1-800-Where-R-U Series (Meg Cabot), Malory Towers Series (Enid Blyton), Shopaholic Series (Sopie Kinsella), The Magician’s Nephew (C.S. Lewis), The Hobbit (J.R.R. Tolkien), and anything by Janet Evanovich.

2. How did you feel when Poser was out in the bookstores???

I freaked out—I was so excited. It felt surreal! People were calling to say they’d seen it. My local Barnes and Noble put Poser in the window, and I pretty much texted everyone I know!!

3. Did you always want to become a writer? If not, what made you want to become one?

I didn’t always want to be a writer, but I’ve always loved reading. I had a number of literary influences as a kid—my dad used to make up stories for my sisters and I, my parents kept the house full of books, and we lived at the intersection of Shakespeare and Longfellow. As a teen, a palm-reader tried to convince me I was going to be a novelist. That just seemed way too fantastical to be true. Instead of writing, I went into the Virtual Reality computer industry. I spent years designing virtual worlds for amusement parks, but none of them seemed truly ‘immersive’. I began to get frustrated, because what I really wanted was to make something that felt real—a world with characters and sensory elements and excitement. One day it struck me that a way to create truly immersive worlds did exist; it had for a very long time. Books. That’s when I started to focus on becoming a writer.

4. What is your favorite part of writing Poser?

My favorite part had to be thinking up all the crazy situations Tallulah gets herself into, and when my writing critique partners actually laughed as we read them out loud, it was very satisfying and fun. Also the climactic scene at end, I think I wrote forty pages in two days, it was exciting.

5. What was the most difficult part to write Poser?

The copyedits. When the manuscript came back from the copyeditor, my first reaction was—wow, is it really possible to put that many red marks on a single page? But of course I was also very grateful for their incredible expertise :D

Questions from the ARCs!!!

Q: You've been surfing for a long time. What exactly is a poser, and how bad is it to be called one?

Ouch, that is a hard question! We probably all exaggerate the truth sometimes--it's only human, right? But you know you've entered poser territory when you've stretched the truth about who you are so far that you start sweating bullets and praying for divine intervention at the thought of actually proving yourself. As Tallulah can attest, definitely not a good situation to be in!

Q: I hear you spent two years traveling around the world on a surf expedition. Do you need that varied experience to call yourself a real surfer?

I feel so fortunate to have been able to surf lots of different kinds of waves; I also loved meeting so many amazing people. But I don’t believe it’s necessary to travel. Anyone who spends quality time with a board in the water is a real surfer.

Q: How much is Poser based on your own experiences starting out in surfing?

Ha, a lot! I ate more than my share of sand, got in way over my head in big surf, injured myself, and became so frustrated I swore I’d never go back in the ocean again lots of times. Somehow it kept luring me back. As for Tallulah’s other troubles, fortunately I avoided getting into the same mess--although I probably tried to pose as a much better surfer than I was.

Q: You worked on a TV Program Beyond the Break, and more recently George Clooney’s latest movie, The Descendants, with Shailene Woodley, star of The Secret Life of the American Teenager. How is the movie and TV experience different to the author experience?

Working on a TV set is exciting; it’s so full of energy. There are lots of people, we all have our own specific jobs, and we’re all working together to make the story come to life. Writing is a solitary experience, but the fun part is being in charge of all of those pieces, from ‘the set’ to ‘the actors’ and everything in between. You get to move them all around, and try to make it all work.

Q: The mean girls at school create a big problem for Tallulah. Do you think she handles herself well? What other avenues should she have taken?

They really did! Tallulah has her struggles, but what I liked most about her character was that she kept a sense of humor throughout. That's important, I think, because it helps keep things in perspective. I believe when we make mistakes, it gives us a chance to figure out how to do things better. On the other hand, I think some situations involving bullying can be helped by confiding in a school counselor or a parent. If things turn seriously bad, we need to find someone to tell, and make them listen!

Another avenue she could have taken would be to walk away from the girls completely and instead get involved in yearbook, drama, sports, or the school newspaper. Those are all great ways to make new friends.

Q: Do you see yourself in any of your characters? Were you the Katie or Tallulah growing up?

That's an interesting question. I think I was a little of both. I identify a lot with Katie--I wore thick glasses (now corrected with laser surgery, what a miraculous procedure), and I never quite fit in at school. I tended to do my own thing. On the other hand, I've always loved fashion, and I identify with Tallulah's sense of humor!

Q: Is it tough to be a young girl starting out in front of the veteran surfers? How competitive is surfing?

I'd never want to turn anyone off from surfing, because it's such a great sport! Yet surfing is competitive simply because of the nature of the ocean. There are a limited number of waves, and an unlimited number of people who want to ride them. Imagine going to a water park with three big slides and three hundred visitors--with no regulated lines, it would be a complete-free-for-all to see who would get on first. That’s what it’s like in the ocean. A hierarchy tends to form, with surfers who’ve surfed the spot most at the top, newcomers in the middle, and beginners at the very bottom. Whether male or female, any newcomer has to fight for waves.

Q: Do you think people reading Poser will finish the book desperate to learn surfing, or so terrified of Tallulah's experiences they'll never touch a board?

I don't know! I hope I've been able to show some of the wonderful things about surfing! It's true, it's a dangerous sport, but I hope some people might be inspired to get in the water. A surf lesson is a good way to start.

Q: You live in Honolulu. Is that the best place to be writing books?

It’s awesome. The people are great and I love the weather because I find some of my best thinking happens outside--either in the ocean, walking, or riding my bike. It’s definitely an inspiring place to be.

AS: Jessica Brody's The Karma Club

Jessica Brody wrote The Karma Club (read my review of The Karma Club here!!!). This book received a 10/10 rating from me and it's such a fun book to read! I've been so glad to be able to interview her! :)





1. Thank you so much for letting me interview you. What inspired you to write The Karma
Club?

Thanks for the interview! The Karma Club was definitely one of those ideas that just “came” to me. A friend of mine had told me some horrendous story about how a boy dumped her (I don’t even remember the story, I just remember it was infuriating!) and the entire time she was talking, I kept thinking, “Someone needs to do that right back to him. He can’t just get away with that. He needs a taste of Karma!” And then boom, the idea came to me. A secret society of girls who help each other out, dosing out Karma to those who deserve it when the universe is slow to do it on its own. And thus THE KARMA CLUB was born. Of course, as soon as the idea came to me, I also knew that my characters would never be able to get away with it. Karma is a tricky thing. And you definitely don’t want to meddle with the universe!

2. Could you tell me how you can relate to Maddy when you were in high school?

Out of all the characters in all my books, I’m most similar to Maddy. I definitely modeled her after myself when I was in high school. We’re both very organized, studious, and like to be in control at all times. The fact that she concocts a plan to take Karma into her own hands because she doesn’t think it’s doing a good enough job on its own is something I totally would do! I’m a bit of a control freak. I never trust anyone to do anything for me. I always insist on doing it myself. So I suppose that would also apply to mystical forces of the universe!

3. What was the most difficult part about writing The Karma Club?

Great question. The most difficult part for me was coming up with the various revenge schemes that the Karma Club girls do. Which is funny because I thought this would be the easiest and most fun part of the book. But in reality it was near impossible! I wanted to find payback treatments that “fit the crime” so to speak but that also would fit into the story later when Karma came back to bite the girls in the butt. Each revenge scheme in the book had to be very thoroughly planned out because they each come back into play later. The only one I had in mind going into writing the book was the Crisco swap. I’ve always loved that idea and secretly wished it on a few people (although I won’t name any names!) The rest of them took a long time to concoct!

4. Have you ever...you know, tried to make karma pays instantly and not over time?

LOL. If you’re asking if I’ve ever sought revenge on someone the answer is no. Although I have thought about it many a times. I’m not as courageous as my main character. I would have never had the guts to do the things she did!

5. I noticed that you're working on another YA novel, called My Life Undecided which would be out in the Spring of 2011 (where sadly I'll be in Japan and not in US...). Could you tell me more about the book?

Of course! I’m SO excited about this book. I think it actually might be my favorite yet (but don’t tell any of my other books that!) My Life Undecided is about a fifteen year-old girl who is notorious for making terrible decision and so she starts an anonymous blog and posts every decision she comes across in the form of an online poll and vows to do whatever her blog readers decide for her! Obviously problems and hilarity ensue! The official U.S. release date is now set for June 2011. Hopefully you’ll be able to pick up a copy in Japan!

6. I have been a follower of Free Book Friday (the teens one), and I love how you interviewed the authors right away to promote their book. What made you create Free Book Friday?

Oh great! I’m so glad you like the site! I got the idea for Free Book Friday because I noticed that every time I hosted a giveaway on my own site, my web traffic would spike significantly. So I just thought, why not host a giveaway every week. Almost instantly the name “Free Book Friday” popped into my head. I searched for the domain name and it was available so I snatched it up and launched the site! That was over two years ago and it’s grown tremendously since then. We’ve hosted some fantastic super star authors like P.C. Cast, Alyson Noël, Scott Westerfeld and tons of others!

7. What is(are) your favorite novel(s)?

Ooh! Hard question. I’ll give you my top 3 (as of today, 8/24/10, because it changes daily!):

1 ) Bridget Jones’s Diary – because it’s the reason I started writing my first novel. I was so entertained by that book, as soon as I read it, I knew I wanted to do the exact same thing: entertain people.

2 ) The Hunger Games – This was such an amazing concept and Suzanne Collins did such a tremendous job writing it. I lived this book. Meaning, it was in my dreams, my thoughts and pretty much every conversation I had for a good three weeks. That’s a remarkable thing for an author to do!

3 ) The Time Traveler’s Wife – This book was like magic to me. I’m obsessed with time travel and good love stories and this one did both…extremely well.

8. What would be your advice to the young writers who are struggling?

Well, first let me say that I, too, was a struggling young writer. As were ALL writers you read out there. So keep that in mind. We all had to start where you are. My best piece of advice is to write and write often. Regardless if you’re a bestselling author with twenty books under your belt or you’re just starting out, writing is a craft that needs to be constantly honed. Try to write every day. Even if the stuff that’s coming out reads like a third grade book report. Sometimes you have to get the crap out in order to get to the good stuff. And sometimes writing just to write is the only way to get a book done. Even if it means having to go back later and change it all! For every book I write I have about 50-75 pages of deleted text that never makes it into the final draft! But for some reason, it had to be written before I could move on.

9. Thank you so much for doing this interview. Is there anything else you'd like to say to the
readers???

Thanks so much for having me! I hope everyone likes the book! Don’t forget to check out the movie-style book trailer I produced for The Karma Club featuring a cameo appearance by Deepak Chopra! It can be found on my website: www.jessicabrody.com. And also, stop by www.TheKarmaClub.org (a non-profit organization inspired by The Karma Club) to find ways to spread Good Karma in your community and around the world!

Knight Angels: Book of Love by Abra Ebner

"'Her guardian angel?' I was confused. What died and made him so privileged?"

My Rating: 8/10

Publisher: Crimson Oak Publishing
Publication: June 2010
Page Count: 346 Pages
Age Range: Young Adult

Abra Ebner's Official Knight Angels Website

Abra Ebner has written an amazing story about love and trust. In Knight Angels: Book of Love, Ebner wrote from different characters' perspective. I take Jane as the main character because Jane is the girl who was supposed to die, but saved by Max, her guardian angel.

The quote on the header is from Wes, Jane's childhood friend who has always been in love with Jane. Jane knows it, but only pities him because Jane doesn't feel for Wes in that way.

Emily does, though. Emily is Jane's sister who's high most of the time. She has a reason--she can hear people's emotions. Her mother and her sister's concern for her--which makes Emily sick because they don't know about her at all. Wes' thoughts that's filled with Jane and Jane and Jane. Sick.


So Emily feels people's emotions.

Max was killed a long time ago. But because he saved his family, he became an angel. Because he saved Jane, he became her guardian angel.

Jane sees people's death; the way people die. She dreams weird things.

Wes is a shape shifter.

Greg, Max's twins (who killed Max's family and murdered Jane's father and Jane) wants to kill and ruins it for everyone.

But Max finally can show himself to Jane. He won't let Jane be hurt after all these time.

What I love about this book: One, it's about angels...(of course) and two, it was different. The relationship between Emily and Wes and Wes to Jane makes the story different and good. It was the mystery of Greg that makes me want to keep reading it, though, most of all. I want to know why Greg..hates Max so much.

What I dislike: The cliff hanger at the end! I want to read the second book RIGHT NOW!! OoO..

AS: Kimberly Derting's The Body Finder

The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting is definitely one of my top favorite books (Yes, it's that good). It's just simply gorgeous and vividly written--definitely a good book worth rereading from time to time. If you missed my review of The Body Finder, click here to read it.



1. (The usual--probably cliche, by now to you) Where did the inspiration of The Body Finder come from?

This is my husband’s favorite question! The original idea actually came from him, when we were driving one day and he said: “What if there was a kid who could find dead bodies?” Of course, in his head it was a middle-school-boy adventure book. But I loved the basic idea…as long as it was a girl in high school and she had a love interest. It took some time to hammer out the rules of her creepy ability (how she would find the dead bodies), but once I did, I was obsessed with getting her story on paper. To this day though, my husband will walk around the house declaring himself my co-author!

2. This is one of the things that intrigued me the most about the book: the part where you wrote about the killer's perspective. It sounded so real--the more I think about it, it's the more like you've studied a real criminal (whereas I mostly watch CSI/similar shows). How difficult was it for you to write the criminal's perspective? Did you do a long research on it?

My first draft only had a few sections from the serial killer’s perspective, mostly because I thought it might be a little too dark and twisted for YA. So when my editor came back and asked for more, I was completely thrilled…I loved writing those scenes (which makes me sounded a little too dark and twisted, doesn’t it?)!!!

3. What was the most difficult part in The Body Finder to write?

I’m not sure I can point at anything and say it was difficult to write. Is it terrible to admit that it was an easy book to write…mostly because I was more than a little obsessed while I was writing it? I fell in love with both the characters and the story, so spending time with them each day was a breeze.

4. I truly love your writing style in The Body Finder. It was just making me so curious; Did you always write like that, or did you especially write it in a way that most people never did (with the 3rd perspective and how the suspense was kept)?

When I wrote The Body Finder, I’d always written in 3rd person. Since then I’ve worked on a project in 1st person and loved the way it turned out. I like mixing POVs, and I think there’s room for a little bit of everything in fiction. I mean, really, how boring would it be if every book were exactly the same???



It was surreal seeing it on shelves for the first time. I thought I was prepared for that moment since I’d already seen a finished copy (I’d held it in my hands, flipped the pages, and I may or may not have smelled it!). But walking into the bookstore for the first time and seeing it there…faceout on real life bookshelves?!?! I’m pretty sure I screamed, or at least squealed. Thankfully no one was standing in my way or I probably would have pushed them down to get to it!

7. Did you always want to be a writer? (If not, ever since when and how did you know you want to become one and what obstacle did you have overcome?)

I started seriously writing right after high school (many, many years ago!). My first attempt at writing a novel (using that word loosely) was a full-on adult horror novel called ONE OF THEM, because I wanted to write like Stephen King (ha!). Fortunately, it was never published but it did make for really good practice. Only when I finally gave up on that manuscript did I discover (and fall in love with) YA!

8. My favorite list of books includes Shiver, Linger (by Maggie Stiefvater), The Hunger Games series (by Suzanne Collins) and The Body Finder (by you, who are so generous by taking your sweet time to answer these questions). What is/are your favorite book(s)/series?

GAH! This is such a difficult question because there are SO many!!! Some of my recent favorite reads have been Paranormalcy by Kiersten White, Firelight by Sophie Jordan, Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl, and anything in the Wicked Lovely series by Melissa Marr. But my all-time favorite will always be To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee (I re-read it every few years)!

9. Some authors can write with music (with lyrics). When you wrote The Body Finder, did you have a certain playlist that you listen to? If not, are there certain songs that you think would fit some scenes in The Body Finder?

I can’t write with music for some reason, and I’m amazed that anyone can. If I like a song I find myself listening to that instead of paying attention to my work. But whenever I hear something slow and melodic by Evanescence, it makes me think of The Body Finder…they just have that haunting sound. And when it comes to the scenes from the serial killer’s POV, I always think of Possum Kingdom by The Toadies (it’s old, but super creepy…especially if you watch the video!).

10. What would be your advice to some of the young writers that hasn't make it yet to the bookstore shelves?

Hang in there! Seriously, I don’t know many writers—or any really—that haven’t faced rejection in some form (and most of us have stacks of rejection letters to prove it). I think that most published writers are published because they never gave up!!!

11. What would be your reaction if The Body Finder is adapted to a movie?

[INSERT HYSTERICAL SCREAMING HERE]



Really, I’m sure you’d hear me from wherever you live!


12. Thank you very much for the copy of The Body Finder and this interview. Is there anything else you'd like to say to the readers?

Just thanks so much for having me here today, and I hope you all enjoy The Body Finder!

The Emerald Talisman by Brenda Pandos

"Why did every male believe that if a woman was upset, it was because of her monthly cycle?"

My Rating: 9/10

Publisher: Obsidian Mountain Publishing
Publication: March 2010
ISBN: 9780578053394
Page Count: 280 Pages
Age Range: Young Adult

I joined Eleni's (from La Femme Reader) book tour for The Emerald Talisman by Brenda Pandos.

The Emerald Talisman is a story about Julia. Julia who witnessed her mother went missing--but doesn't remember a single thing about it. Julia is also the girl who has the ability to feel others' emotions.

In the beginning of the book, Julia met with Nicholas in the woods. Julia had her work shift, and when her car broke down and her cell phone wasn't charged, she decided to just take a shortcut. The really crazy part was the shortcut is through the woods.

Julia fell for Nicholas quickly--either it's from kindness or from the way Nicholas is a bit harder to read. What she didn't know is that Nicholas is...well, half vampire. And Nicholas is a vampire hunter.

Then, there's Phil. Phil who brighten Julia's days sometimes. Phil who went missing.

What exactly is going on?

Pandos had brought a new story to the vampire section--one that involves the vampire hunter and even more danger to the public.

What I love about the book: The pace. It was hilarious--by now it's probably a bit obvious that I kind of like sarcastic remarks--and sophisticated. I like Julia's relationship with Jo and her family. It brings conflicts and also reveal them.

What I dislike: A bit cliche about how Julia was so attracted to Nicholas very fast and how Nicholas ignore them (no..not talking about Twilight. More about almost every other paranormal romance novels where the boys are dark and handsome and where the girls are clumsy and curious).

But it was good--not one-of-my-top-favorites-good, but good good. :D

The Emerald Talisman Official Website

The School for Dangerous Girls by Eliot Schrefer

"She blamed me. And now, I was going to get punished."

My Rating: 10/10

Publisher: Scholastic
Publication: January 2009
ISBN: 978-0-545-03528-6
Page Count: 341
Age Range: Children - Young Adult

Angela Cardenas isn't your typical teenager who just get in some troubles in her life. Her whole life basically defines trouble.

The School for Dangerous Girls by Eliot Schrefer is about Hidden Oak Academy for Dangerous Girls. Schrefer gives the glimpses of events that lead Angela to be enrolled in Hidden Oak.

All the Hidden Oak Academy girls did something bad enough for their parents/guardians to give consent to Hidden Oak's staff to do, well, anything to discipline them.

There's Dr. Zsilinska, Angela's counselor who just listens and talk in a circle. There's Juin, who has been to Hidden Oak and know all these things before.

There's Hidden Oak; the school that imprison its girls within.

In Hidden Oak's orientation, the counselors would make the girls fight among themselves to show their true colors. Then they judge whether each girl belongs to the Golden or the Purple thread.

The less dangerous you are--say, probably an emotional breakdown that made your parents think you're crazy--the more likely you'll be in Golden thread.

Angela was probably one of the most innocent, isn't she? But her motto in her whole life has been to stay as dangerous as possible. This book is about survival of the fittest in Hidden Oak; the hell of teenage crimes, and the teenager's solution to societal expectations.

What I love about this book: It was really about survival. The mystery in the beginning definitely build up the story and made you just want to read further and further. It was set in a good pace, and although it was a middle grade book (not too easy, not too hard--vocab wise) it was still thrilling. I love it.

What I dislike: The ending wasn't..exactly proper. I was hoping for...more about the Hidden Oak's fate at the end (you'll know what I mean when you read the book--since I'm not gonna spoil it for you...). I wouldn't mind reading another 50-100 pages about the ending, because it was just such an interesting book.

Eliot Schrefer's The School for Dangerous Girls Official Page

If I Stay by Gayle Forman

"I'm not sure this is a world I belong in anymore. I'm not sure that I want to wake up."

My Rating: 10/10

Publisher: Penguin USA
Publication: 2009
ISBN: 978-0-525-42103-0
Page Count: 196 pages
Age Range: Young Adult

Gayle Forman is truly amazing. I read this book and I cried--it was just one of those books that truly touched a soft spot in people's heart.

If I Stay is a story about a girl named Mia, who plays cello. Her dad, mom and little brother all like rock music while she prefers classical. Even so, her family loves her--and she loves them--all the same. They click together well, even.

In If I Stay, Mia also has a boyfriend. The one who stays madly in love with her, even without having to change herself. Adam is in the band Shooting Star and he rock talks--just like Mia's parents and Todd (Mia's brother).

It was snowing and the school was canceled for both Mia and Todd. Adam was preparing for his concert with the popular band; Bikini. Mia's father, being a teacher, of course gets the day off, so Mia's mother took a leave as well for the sake of the family.

Then they all went to visit their grandparents--but something went terribly wrong. They got into a car accident on a day with snow. Everyone was rushed into the ER.

Her parents and Todd are dying. Mia's soul thinks of everything she and her family and Adam went through together. How if she's accepted to Juilliard, she will move away from Adam. How her first cello recital went. How her father changed because of Todd--and that it changed everything, too.

If I stay is beautiful and moving, simple yet filled with emotions.

What I love about the book: It made me cry and books rarely does that to me (Well, anything rarely does, except a really touching story, so you can say that books that made me cry are one of the best books written out there). Mia was faced with this dilemma and everyone else gave her the affection; it was simple and just plain beautiful. It was short, but it was amazing.

What I dislike about the book: Nothing; I love this book from page one until the end. It's one of my favorite books.

Here is the new cover for If I Stay:

If I Stay Official Page (With a sneak peek of the 1st chapter in PDF format)
Gayle Forman's Official Web Page

Ghostgirl by Tonya Hurley

"'I'm just going to vanish into nothing. Poof.'"

My Rating: 8/10

Publisher: Little, Brown Company
Publication: August 2008
Page Count: 328 Pages
Age Range: Young Adult

Charlotte Usher is dying to be popular. Literally.

When her previous years of school life failed, she promised this time would be different--it would be her year to shine. She tried everything--during the summer she studied Petula Kensington (THE most popular girl in Hawthorne High), stalked Damen (Her ultimate crush) and bought super expensive high heels.

She even tried to sign up to be a cheerleader. Unfortunately, the rest of the school doesn't think so.

Then she was partnered up with Damen in Physics--and they were lab partners!

It was all meant to be (or at least Charlotte seemed to think so) until...well, until Charlotte choked on a gummy bear.

Yep. A gummy bear.

Charlotte's a choker, now.

Turns out? After death, if you haven't finished High School, there's the Dead Ed! Charlotte met Mr. Brain (who spilled his brain slugs each time he laughed), Pru(denc)e who seemed to hate her, Piccolo Pam (who swallowed a Piccolo and died) and a bunch of other Dead kids.

The Dead kids had one mission--To save their house; The Hawthorne Manor.

Charlotte, thinks differently. She thinks being dead is an opportunity to be closer to Damen. Besides, Charlotte's learning to Possess someone...Not just someone, maybe...Petula Kensington?

But when things with Petula doesn't work out well, Charlotte found out that she can be seen by someone--Scarlet. Scarlet Kensington, Petula's little sister (who, by the way, is totally different than Petula) that wears vintage clothes and goth make up. A good come back from the dead, huh?

Read Ghostgirl by Tonya Hurley to follow Charlotte's ghostly trail in the story!!!

What I love about the book: That it was philosophical, thoughtful and just really sophisticated. Also? It was very funny at times. Ghostgirl is a good book to learn about your surroundings, how to fit in, and most of all; yourself.

What I dislike about the book: It's just me, I guess, but sometimes Charlotte seemed too..exaggerating. So it's not Tonya's work that I dislike, but it's Charlotte's capricious and whiny personality. But other than that...I'm good! :D

Tonya Hurley's Ghostgirl Official Website

The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting

"It had the same greasy sheen as oil, casting a rainbow of hues across the plane of the water as it was rippled gently by the waves. But there was something different about it, something she couldn't quite put her finger on."

My Rating: 10/10

Publisher: Harper Teen
Publication: March 2010
ISBN: 978-0-06-177981-7
Page Count: 327 pages
Age: Young Adult (940L from Lexile Reading Level)

I am never one for a murder mystery novel, but The Body Finder grabbed readers as soon as the 2nd paragraph was read. "And then there was another sound. Something she couldn't identify. Yet."

Kimberly Derting had successfully written the perfect narrating voice for the perfect mystery story. I was hooked from the first page--perhaps it was the unusual style of writing (to me personally anyway); how it was beautiful and different but also purely intriguing with conflicts.

Violet Ambrose is the main character in The Body Finder. She's in high school, but the prologue started when she was 8, when Violet first discovered a 14-year-old girl's body.

It was always animals' corpse, that Violet found. But she just sense them--it's just there, in the back of her tongue, ringing in her ears. Violet calls them the echoes.

Violet is best friend with Jay, who has been with her ever since 1st grade. They were inseparable ever since. Over the summer, Jay has been idolized because he transformed into a hunk. Violet, who resists her thoughts that she wants to be with Jay more than friends is in deep conflict with herself.

Then one day Violet and Jay (and basically the rest of the school) gathered around the lake for a party. Jay and Violet drove one of the boats until Violet was attracted to something. Violet knows there's a body down there. But is she ready to find out whose it is, knowing the mental-breakdown she's about to face after wards?

Then Violet tries to find the killer. Jay would never let anything bad happen to Violet...

What I love about this book: This book has easily gained its place in my heart as one of my all-time favorites. The voice Kimberly Derting used as an author was exceptional; my words couldn't describe how much I love this book right now. I started reading at 1:34 and I finished a little after 4:30. I seriously couldn't put it down. I like how she actually used the 3rd person perspective and made it work (I usually prefer reading 1st person, really--because what is a story without the character's mind?). I also like how Kimberly wrote the perspective of the killer. It was really a thriller.

What I dislike about the book: Absolutely nothing. I enjoy everything, from the first page to the end. :D

This is highly recommended! Even if you dislike mystery, just try. Because in some aspects, this book has its humor. ;)

Kimberly Derting's Official The Body Finder page

What They Always Tell Us by Martin Wilson

"'...She said, 'Sticks and stones may break your bones, but words can never hurt you.'
'Yeah, that's what they always tell us.'"

My Rating: 9/10

Publisher: Random House (Delacorte Press)
Publication: 2008
ISBN: 978-0-385-73507-0
Page Count: 288 Pages
Ages: Young Adult

What They Always Tell Us is Martin Wilson's debut novel. It is written in a simple way, although as a reader I feel like it was just filled with emotions unspoken with words.

The book started with Alex's perspective. Alex is a junior who recently became a misfit. A social outcast, but the kind that wasn't picked on. You name it. But that happened even before he drank the Pine-Sol in a party. After that, everyone just started calling him a freak.

His older brother, James, deep down, probably do too, to Alex.

James--like everyone else--asked Alex why he did it. Not that Alex ever answers, of course. So James, like everyone else, starts to ignore Alex too.

James just wants to get out of Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Start over everything he messed up.

Alex, on the other hand, just wants...something. He doesn't know yet.

Then there's Nathen, who's always nice to Alex (even after the Pine-Sol "accident"--as James and their parents calls it). One night, Alex started jogging again like he used to and he met Nathen on the way.

Nathen encouraged Alex to join the cross country team. Alex wants to know why he's nice to Alex. Why he's always been nice to Alex.

There's also Henry, a 10 year old kid who lives next to Alex and James. A puzzle piece out of the place in Tuscaloosa. Henry, the kid who reads the DICTIONARY. (Click here for Henry's word of the week! Good for SAT/ACT, people!)

What They Always Tell Us tells a different yet still heart breaking story about first love, boy to boy and how a teenager cope with ex-friends, exes, brothers, family and most of all; life.

What I love about this book: Okay, so first of all, I'd never thought I'd read a boy-boy/girl-girl love kind of thing. Don't get me wrong, I have NO PROBLEM with it. But I liked this book. A lot. Because it's meaningful, and it's a good piece of literature. It's always nice to get glimpses of someone else's life who is totally the opposite. I like how Martin Wilson switches perspective from Alex and James, and I like how the characters developed throughout the book. :D

What I dislike about this book: The beginning was a bit slow for me, the first 2 chapters. But I understand that Martin Wilson was trying to set the story up, so it's all good! :)

Martin Wilson's Official What They Always Tell Us Web Page

Thank you, Martin, for the signed copy!! :D

P.S: I highly recommend this book if you really like books. If you can't handle the boy-boy part, then just don't read it really.

Crunch Time by Mariah Fredericks

"Max grins. 'We should have numbers on our butts.' He turns to Daisy. 'Hi, I'm a two thousand. Nice to meet you.'
In a haughty accent she says, 'Sorry, I only date twenty-one hundreds and above....'"

My Rating: 10/10

Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers (Imprint of Simon and Schuster)
Publication: 2006
ISBN: 0-689-86938-X
Page count: 317 pages
Age range: Young Adult

To be honest, I've never cared for any standardized tests. Not the MCA, not the ACT, so obviously not the SAT. (Yes, I have not even taken the ACT, and I will pass them, it's just that I never get the whole reason why people freak about it.)

When I moved to US on August 2007, it was a bit weird (to me anyway). They (the school) insisted on me using Number 2 pencils, and I had to use the wooden pencils (I only use mechanical ones or pens back in Indonesia). So when I saw this cover, it grabbed my attention at once.

Daisy and Max are best friends--Daisy is poor and well (let's face it) her grades are just average. She plays basketball good, though. Max, on the other hand, is smart though geeky.

They both came for the SAT prep class, and found Leo Thayer and Jane Cotterell from the same school.

Leo Thayer is one of the BP--Beautiful People--and he knows it. Worse, he always hits on freshmen girls and well, break their hearts. In short, of course, a jerk. Jane Cotterell is the daughter of Julia Cotterell, the movie star. Right, Jane is also the rich kid with the popular mom without any friends. The SAT Prep guy didn't show up, so Daisy (not caring about the test at all), walks out. Inviting anyone who'd come with.

Then the four of them started their own SAT prep group in Jane's house.

But then they figured out that someone cheated. Someone cheated the SAT.
Was it Daisy, the poor girl who needed the scholarship?
Leo, who wants the perfect score?
Max, who needs his father off his back?
Or Jane, so she doesn't ruin her mom's reputation?

What I love about the book: The characters--Mariah Fredericks showed us all 4 characters' minds, and each of them was great. It was funny--hilarious, actually--and smart. :D

What I dislike about the book: I didn't dislike anything! (I wonder why I haven't found any book that I have anything to point out that I dislike...?) This is one of my favorites!!!

Mariah Fredericks' Official Crunch Time page

Life, After by Sarah Darer Littman

"'Open mouth and insert foot. That's a Brian Harrison specialty.'
I had no idea what he was talking about, and my confusion obviously showed on my face.
'It's an expression. To put your foot in your mouth means to say something stupid and tactless that you shouldn't have said. You know, that offends the other person.'"

Publisher: Scholastic
Publication: July 1st 2010
ISBN: 978-0-545-15144-3
Ages/Grades: 12-18/7-12

Before I read Life, After, I thought it was going to be sad and filled with emotions. Now that I've finished it, it was funny and more than just life-changing sad. It was crying-sad and I-can-relate-to-some-of-this-sad.

In Life, After, the main character, Daniela Bensimon is from Argentina. July 18, 1994 was the AMIA bombing in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Because of it, Dani lost her aunt Sara.

Her father, was nice and kind. Her father was gentle and caring--not short tempered and fussy about every little thing and impatient. Dani loved and liked him very much. But these days, it's a bit hard to, really.

Sarita, Dani's little sister, doesn't understand that the crisis is changing her father's life. Or her mother. Or Dani's. She was innocent--and curious. She asks a lot of questions, and asks them bluntly.

Dani lost Gaby, her best friend, who moved to Israel because of the crisis. But Dani still have Roberto, her novio (boyfriend in Spanish). But her novio had to move, too. To Miami in America.

After not being able to pay for electricity and a crazy protest-scene in front of the hospital (where Dani's mom works), Dani's dad finally gave in to move to America. But no, not Miami. New York, where Dani's uncle, Jacobo, lives.

In America, the high school is huge. The hallways are mean. First day, right off the start Dani was found wearing another girl's shirt from charity. They kept picking on her, although Dani made a friend with the girl's brother.

But Dani had her personal GPS--Brian Harrison. Who she can't help but think about even though her novio is still Roberto. Roberto, Roberto, Roberto. Whom she misses so much but when in contact with, couldn't speak much to.

Dani is changing. So is Sarita. Will her dad change? Will he try to live normally again? Will Roberto's feelings change?

What I love about the book: I didn't come from America (I came from Indonesia to America in 2007) and I struggled with the idioms, too. Or maybe just the expressions and slang, really. So I definitely relate to that, and this book was just hilarious. I would love to reread this book again and again. Also, Dani's not exaggerating. She's frustrated, but she keeps it under control, until (of course, just like any other teens) her parents doesn't listen anymore.

What I dislike about the book: To be honest, I was a bit disappointed about the ending--but that's just because I don't like the hanging ending. And to be honest, that's because I wanted more of Sarita's blunt remark and also Dani and Brian's hilarious relationship.

:D

This is a very amazing book--Never judge a book by its cover, it's really good!! Highly recommended!

Sarah Darer Littman's Official Life, After web page

Don't Judge a Girl by Her Cover by Ally Carter

"Get her."

My Rating: 9/10

Publisher: Disney Hyperion
Publication: 2009
ISBN: 978-1-4231-1660-8
Ages: 11 and up

Ally Carter's books are always mysterious and filled with action-packed girl powers.

In Don't Judge a Girl by Her Cover (Gallagher Girls book 3), Cammie Morgan was with one of her best friend, Macey McHenry to rehearse the political campaign of Macey's father.

Then everything went wrong; spy, butt-kicking wrong. Macey and Cammie certainly didn't have any problems with it--if only the attack didn't happen right in front of the First son, Preston White.

They barely escaped.

"Get her." One of the attackers had said. What did they want with Macey?

Cammie, Liz, Bex and Macey herself kept pondering about it.

All of the sudden Aunt Abby becomes Macey's personal bodyguard. A bodyguard who'd take the bullet for her but won't risk it. Abby is one of the best spies Cammie knows.

While still trying to figure out the mystery behind the strange attack and countless attempts to be with Macey 24/7 to make sure she's safe, there's Zach.

Zach from Blackthorne, the Gallagher Academy for boys. (Gallagher Academy, for those who doesn't know, is a girls-only spy school.)

Zach who kissed Cammie back then.

Zach who disappears almost right away when Cammie glanced another way.

In the third book of the Gallagher Girls, Ally Carter brought even more suspense than the first two books in the series.

What I like about this book: Funny, thrilling and edgy at the same time. It's unforgettable and filled with suspense. Also, filled with the danger of falling in love and fast paced. What more could you ask for in a book???

What I dislike about the book: The cliffhanger at the end!!! (Thankfully I had the 4th book with me, too.)

Ally Carter's Official Don't Judge a Girl by Her Cover Page

Deep Down Popular by Phoebe Stone

"Conrad is the only boy on the face of the earth who can wear a pink T-shirt and carry it off. Doesn't bother him in the least. Doesn't even faze him. You know what that is? That's deep down popular."

My Rating: 7/10

Publisher: Scholastic
Publication: March 2008
Pages: 280
Ages: 9 and up

Jessie Lou is a 6th graders and she always has a special interest for Conrad Parker Smith.

Conrad is popular, Conrad is smart and is very likable by everyone.

Then something went wrong with Conrad's leg and he was out from school for a long time.

The popular kids stopped calling him gradually, and Conrad's popularity went down. And one day he came back to school with a cast on his leg, sealing the deal of his lost popularity.

He used to be the kids that was up in the lunch line first, now he's one of the kids that stayed behind in class and waited patiently. All because of his leg.

Then one day Jessie Lou was assigned by the teacher (who's oblivious of the fact that nobody really cares for Conrad anymore) to help Conrad take his bicycle home.

Jessie Lou wishes that Conrad's cast will never be taken off, so that she can stay with him even for a little while. Deep Down Popular is about understanding things more than what's shown, about seeing what's best.

What I like about this book: That it was entertaining, especially the bits about Jessie Lou's thoughts about Conrad.

What I dislike about this book: Even though this was written in Jessie Lou's perspective, it feels awkward that she really describes her surrounding without really putting her own thoughts so much in it. It feels awkward--which is different--hence, a little dislike.

Phoebe Stone's Official Deep Down Popular Page

Hunger by Jackie Morse Kessler

"But the Thin voice saved her.
Hershey's Kisses, it whispered. Twenty-five calories each."

My Rating: 9/10

Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Publication: October 18 2010
ISBN: 978-0-547-34124-8
Pages: 180 pages
Ages/Grade: 12 years and up/ 7th grade and up

Jackie Morse Kessler's debut novel is spectacular.

Lisabeth Lewis, the main character of Hunger has a boyfriend. Maybe it's something about being a couple; all of a sudden you care more about other people's opinions on appearance.

Lisa loved food--she used to go with James (her current boyfriend) and Suzanne (her ex-best friend) into Joe's Diner and eat normally like everybody else.

Then the Thin voice appeared, telling her that she's fat fat fat and that she needs to lose weight. As if her perfect and insanely critical mother hasn't stop complaining yet.

When she lost 10 pounds just like her mother wished, her mom complained about her skin complexion or et cetera.

Then she had a dream. Maybe a nightmare, because the sexy Death came for her. She was appointed to be Famine, because Lisa tried to kill herself. Death was merciful. Death was kind. Death was sexy.

She was anorexic herself, and she's trying to help people to counter famine. She encountered War, who really wants to get rid of her. But despite the fear she has for War, her betraying friends who doesn't understand, her strange boyfriend and her uncaring parents, she got to ride Midnight, her black horse.

Hunger is about life and death, supporting family and friends, finding yourself and losing yourself.

What I like about the book: It was funny and sophisticated, realistic and also different. Lisa's mind was filled with conflict, hence, interesting. Death's characteristic was also hilarious, switching back and forth from old English to rocker style. :D I definitely enjoy this book.

What I dislike about the book: The beginning was a bit slow and dragged to me, but I kept reading and I loved it!

Jackie Morse Kessler's Books Page

Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles

“Why is it so important that you're perceived as a bad boy, huh? Tell me."

My Rating: 10/10

Simone Elkeles has written one of the best book of star-crossed lovers story around. In Perfect Chemistry, it all begins in Chemistry class at Flatiron High.

At the beginning of their senior year, Brittany Ellis, the captain of the pom-pom squad is going to meet her boyfriend who hasn't been with her all summer. Her life is perfect, from the clothes, the matching boyfriend, the kind-of clique she belongs to and her amazing house.

Alejandro Fuentes, is the total opposite. He's in the Latino Blood gang, he's a player and doesn't want to admit that he has goals rather than be a gang-banger.

Lucky, Alex's friend, made a bet that Alex wouldn't be able to sleep with Brittany. Alex loves challenges and he doesn't go down on any bet.

The thing is, though, when Alex is with Brittany, he feels everything else differently than what he felt with other girls. Slowly but surely, they're both falling for each other.

That's when Alex has to choose between saving his family by being in Latino Blood (LB, the gang he's in) or, be with Brittany Ellis.

What I like about the book: Alex's ego and Simone Elkeles' writing style! (For some reason I like people with sarcasm and ego...they're interesting that way!!!)

What I dislike about the book: If there's anything I dislike?? Was that I didn't pay attention in my brief quarter of Spanish in 8th grade that could have made laugh even more while reading the book!!!!

Thank you Bloomsbury USA/Walker Young Readers!!!

Perfect Chemistry Official Website
Simone Elkeles' official website

Crescendo by Becca Fitzpatrick

"..Five minutes from now, when everything else had dropped away and I realized the full impact of what I'd done, I'd feel my heart breaking."

My Rating: 10/10

Becca Fitzpatrick's debut novel, Hush Hush was phenomenal. Click here for my review on Hush Hush.

Crescendo, the second book that's coming out in October 19, 2010, will make fans dying for the 3rd book of the series.

Nora Grey and Patch Cipriano are now officially an item, but a bad boy is always going to be a bad boy, right?

Nora screwed it all up by telling him the three big words; "I love you." Patch left, without returning the affection.

Nora's mom disliked Patch, so she goes and invited the nightmare of Nora's childhood, Scott Parnell, to match him with Nora.

Plus, Nora is stuck with Marcie Millar as her chemistry partner. Marcie apparently hates her for no reason she knows.

When Nora broke up with Patch for stalking Marcie (though it was more of Patch not returning the affection), Vee (Nora's best friend) goes and date Rixon, the person who knows Patch best.

That's not all; Scott Parnell's a Nephil, too. In Crescendo, Nora will find more danger that awaits her, her dead father's secret and more about Patch Cipriano.

Becca Fitzpatrick has written a nerve-wrecking story, and I'm proud to actually say that I cried reading this.

What I love about the book: The conflict, and how the emotions felt real. As if I was Nora, and I was the one breaking, needing to be Patched up. :) And oh, that I got to read this 3 months and 11 days earlier than the real publication date.

What I dislike about the book: The cliffhanger at the end! The misery to wait another year for the 3rd book to come out!!!!!!

Thanks, Simon & Schuster for the advance copy!!

Once Dead, Twice Shy by Kim Harrison

"Madison's prom was killer--literally."

My Rating: 7/10

Kim Harrison, the NY times bestseller wrote YA fantasy; Once Dead, Twice Shy.

Madison went to the prom as a junior, and she was killed. She ditched her original date because her mom told the guy to ask her out to prom, and went out the door with someone else completely hotter.

But he killed her. Not only he crashed the car off the cliff, but when he knows she's not dead yet, he stabbed her with a sword.

Or, a scythe.

Madison Avery doesn't believe in angels and grim reaper and et cetera. All she wants is her body back, or dead. Fully dead. Not stuck-on-earth-dead.

Throughout the book, Madison tries to figure out the reason she's been hunted by all these reapers. It's not like she's special or anything...right?

Chased by reapers + Stuck with poetic cherub + Crush thinks she's Madison A-very-freaky girl = Once Dead, Twice Shy.

What I like about the book: Grace's (the cherub/Madison's guardian) personality! Madison too, and combined, they make the perfect entertainment! :) I have never read any book by Kim Harrison before, but this sure does makes me want to read every other book she wrote!!

What I dislike about the book: Nothing! I love it!

Look out for the second book: Early to Death, Early to Rise



Thanks, Harper Teen!! :)

Kim Harrison's Once Dead Twice Shy Official Page

Invisible I (Amanda Project) by Stella Lennon

"'My own person,' I said quietly. 'I'd like to be my own person.'"

My Rating: 9/10

Simply intriguing and sophisticated, Invisible I is the first book of the Amanda Project! Although it is written by "Stella Lennon," it is an alias that which a group of authors will use. Melissa Kantor is the author of Invisible I.

The narrator in the book is Callie. Callie is one of the I-girls (which is a group of 4 girls with their name ends in 'i'; Traci, Kelli, Heidi, Calli(e)) and she met an extraordinary girl in her math class.

Amanda Valentino is eccentric and witty. She's blunt at the same time she's so mysterious, her words are clear as day although at first it confuses you.

In the beginning of the book, Callie, Nia and Hal were called to the Vice Principal's office, because of Amanda Valentino. She apparently drew on the VP's car, and all the clues she hinted to the VP led him straight to call Callie, Nia and Hal.

Nia was on the bottom of the social status at Endeavor (their school).

Hal was a dork. He was a hottie, but he's still a dork.

So how could Callie be possibly dragged together with Nia and Hal?

Throughout the book, Callie finds that it doesn't matter where Nia or Hal stands. The three of them searches for Amanda Valentino, refusing to go back to their lives without her. Amanda Valentino is missed, and they want to know why she left.

What I love about the book: It made me curious and it left me wanting more! I like how Amanda is so mysterious, but how she's very kind and thoughtful of others.

What I dislike about the book: That I have to wait for the second book to come out. ...


Invisible I Official Web Page
Melissa Kantor's Official Web Page

Linger by Maggie Stiefvater

"I never knew there were so many different ways to say good-bye."

My Rating: 10/10

In Shiver, it was Sam's fight to stay human and Grace's fear for losing him. In Linger, it was Grace's turn to suffer the fever and her biggest fear--losing Sam--and Sam's turn to slowly break.

In Linger, the sequel to Shiver, Stiefvater wrote another beautiful novel. It's one of the books that's very hard to review, because there's just so much that can't be expressed with words.

Sam was staying human, the meningitis worked. But Grace was constantly feverish, drowsy and sick. Grace thought she was dying. Sam wasn't prepared for the worst case scenario.

There's the new wolf; Cole. Cole wanted to be a wolf. He's mysterious and playful, Isabel and him are both broken. They are drawn to each other in a strange yet familiar way.

Grace knew what was coming. She could feel the wolf in her. She wasn't telling Sam--it would break both of them. Besides, Sam was occupied by Cole. Cole and Isabel's father; a wolf-shooting maniac.

Plus, Grace's parents just suddenly had taken interest in her. After all the time they've left Grace to cook dinner without a suspicion. Just because of Sam.

Sam. Samuel Roth. The only one that Grace truly need.


What I like about the book: Sam's usual romantic mood--to the extent that it's a bit emo-ish, but it's still beautiful. If emo is bad, Sam makes it beautiful. Grace's response and her bluntness in Linger is also what I love.

What I dislike: The ending. But that's only cause I know I'm craving for more. The ending. The climax. If Sam got his wish or not. If Grace could stay.

Maggie Stiefvater's Linger Website.

Thanks again, Scholastic. I look forward to reading Forever, the final book of the series.