Monday, December 13, 2010

"Never Give Up," an Interview with author Bill Moushey

I had the pleasure to sit down with author Bill Moushey, a professor at Point Park University and an award-winning journalist. Last year, Moushey released, "Never Give Up," a book about Pittsburgh Steelers Linebacker James Harrison. The book focuses on Harrison, his dedication and how he overcame the numerous obstacles standing in his way.

But it wasn't an easy undertaking for Moushey. While he shares several similarities with Harrison, Moushey experienced some initial difficulties. Regardless, the neither the player nor the author has any regrets.





Check out my interview with Moushey to learn more.



Listen!








To learn more, or to buy the book visit, http://www.jamesharrisonnevergiveup.com/home/ .


Also, test your knowledge and see how much you know about James Harrison, take this quiz !


Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Let's not say Goodbye, but see you Soon !

Starting a blog was something I always wanted to do, but I didn't know how to go about it. In an effort to learn, I enrolled in a multimedia class and I think its safe to say it was successful ( at least for me).

Part of the class requirement was to have a blog and update it on a weekly basis. This is my last week of classes. While several of my fellow classmates have decided not to continue their blogs, I am looking forward to hopefully expanding it and changing things up a bit.

But before I do that, I wanted to get your opinions. Do you like the way Page Turner is set up now ? Is there anything missing that you would like to see? Please feel free to answer honestly, and I am open to any and all suggestions.

I just wanted to let everyone know what was going on, and let you guys know I'll be taking a small hiatus. I have one or two more posts for you guys; I did an interview with Point Park's own Bill Moushey about his book "Never Give Up." For those of you not familiar, it is about James Harrison, a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers. After that, I'll take a small break and return January 19th.

Thank you guys for all of your support and have a Happy Holidays !!!

( PLEASE BE SURE TO GIVE ME SOME FEEDBACK ! I want to continue to improve ! )

Reunited and it Feels so Good....

As I was searching the Barnes & Noble web site this afternoon, I was surprised to find they were offering a book I'd read years ago. Upon entering my freshman year of college, Point Park ( or was it the School of Communications?) asked all the incoming freshman to read a book.

I was infuriated that I was "assigned" homework before classes even started, and more upset once I saw the name of the book. However, the book, "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time," by Mark Haddon, turned out to be a wonderful adventure.

The book focuses on Christopher Boone, a 15-year-old with Asperger's Syndrome, which is a form of Autism. Boone knows a great deal about math, but little about interacting with people on a day-to-day basis. When Boone finds his neighbor's dog murdered, he set out to find the killer. Instead he goes on a terrifying journey, one that turns everything he thought he knew upside down.

Haddon does an amazing job with this book. It was released in 2003 and was immediately a best-seller. I couldn't up it down and have read it several times since. Barnes & Noble is currently offering a discount, and when you spend $25 you get free shipping, http://search.barnesandnoble.com/books/product.aspx?cds2Pid=24698&ean=9781400032716&inframe=y.

I suggest anyone who loves a good mystery/thriller to give it a try. I promise you won't regret it !



 

Monday, December 6, 2010

Get More for Your Books...

Tis that time again. It's the end of semester. After all that work and energy, it is finally come to an end. But what to do with the hundred of thousands of dollars worth of textbooks ?

Luckily, you have several options. First there is the ever popular, but enormous rip off, your campus bookstore. Most bookstores buy back books to a certain extent.  However, once there quota is filled for the next semester, they stop buying that book. They also only give 50% or less back for books. And personally, there is nothing worth than getting $50 back when you spent over $200 for a textbook.

But no worries, thankfully there are other options. Few people think to sell their books to fellow students who will be taking the class in the following semester. Most students are willing to pay at least half for the book, and you are both doing each other huge favors.

There are also several stores and sites that buy back textbooks for very reasonable prices. First, there is Half Priced Books, http://www.halfpricebooks.com/sell_to_us.html. My only qualm is that they don't always buy everything. They too have limits, and once they reach them they stop buying.

Other sites, like Amazon.com, http://www.amazon.com/ and Cash4Books, http://www.cash4books.net/textbooks/?gclid=COr02bj92KUCFYHc4Aod3nXAkw, also do great jobs at providing students with outlets to sell back their books.

These are only some of the sites out there, so check them out and be sure to pass them along !

When did that Book Come Out ?

Check my time line to see when the Harry Potter books and movies were released !


Saturday, December 4, 2010

Twas the Night Before Christmas and all Through the House.....

Well, the holidays are right around the corner ( 21 days to be exact), and I am finally getting into the Christmas spirit. My shopping is almost done, I've helped decorate my parent's house, and I'm spending time with friends and family.

On one such occasion, as my roommates gathered around the table, they rambled off what they've bought so far and for whom. My one roommate has a 2-year-old nephew. Searching for something special to get him, she realized he didn't own a Christmas book. She later bought him "The Night Before Christmas," and is looking forward to reading it him on Christmas Eve.

Looking back, I remember having similar traditions with my parents, but I couldn't remember which stories my mom used to read. So I searched for the top Christmas books to see if I could remember. Amazon.com had the best list, http://www.amazon.com/Best-Christmas-Books-All-Time/lm/R1PZTIQNXUGMXS.

Here's their top 10, ( I've read all but 7, 8, and 3).Check them out, and see if you remember any of these. Did your parents read you Christmas stories ?

1.  A Christmas Carol  by Charles Dickens

2.  The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg

3.  The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus by L. Frank Baum

4.  Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer by Rick Bunsen

5.  The Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore

6.  How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Theodor Geisel - Dr. Seuss

7.  Nutcracker by Ralph Manheim

8.  The Little Match Girl by Jerry Pinkney

9.  A Wish to Be a Christmas Tree by Colleen Monroe

10.  Frosty the Snowman by Steve Nelson         

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Opinions, Opinions, Opinions

Do reviews really affect what books people choose to read ? It is something that has prelexed me for awhile, do people choose books based on others opinions or do they choose books based on their own interests?

Personally, I choose books based on my own interests. However, there are times when someones review will sway my attitude towards the book. Yet as I asked some friends and my lovely roommates, I was informed that book reviews really influence which books they read and why.

If they read a negative review for a certain book, they won't even bother picking up. If the review is somewhere in the middle, they may decide to give it a try, and if it is a positive or outstanding review, they definitely read it. I was surprised by this, but I guess to each their own.

I tend to wait until after I read the book to read the review. That way it doesn't really sway me. Like I said, reviews can reflect my attitude towards a book, and if I have a negative attitude going in, it can be the best book in the world and I'll hate it.  To check out reviews for the latest books you're reading, visit http://www.goodreads.com/. Where do you stand on reviews? How do they affect which books you choose ?

Monday, November 29, 2010

As the sun plummeted into the horizon...

I am really into descriptive writing lately.  It makes the characters and the story become more realistic, and more interesting when the picture is already painted for me. While it doesn't leave much to the imagination, it takes a great deal of skill to do it correctly.

It is something that I hope I can one day achieve as a writer, and what better way to hone the skill then to immerse yourself into it ? Although I haven't had much time to read over the last couple of weeks, I keep finding books that just call for my attention. "lit," by Mary Karr is one such book. Karr, a daughter of alcoholics, depicts her own descent into alcoholism and recovery in her memoir.

Barnes & Nobles, http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Lit/Mary-Karr/e/9780060596996/?cds2Pid=35042, has a feature that allows members to read the first few chapters of books online before the decide if they want to buy it or not. I was memorized by Karr's book. She is an amazing writer and VERY descriptive. I really suggest that you give this one a try, and I think it is really something special. Once again, I've found another book to add to my Goodreads account.....

And the Winner is ........

See if you know when these authors won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction.....

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Gobble, Gobble !

Happy Turkey Day !! Hope everyone is and will have safe travels. Thankfully, my family and I don't have far to go for all of us to gather around the table ( we all live within 15 minutes of each other).

I am really excited for this Thanksgiving in particular. Normally my grandmother does all of the cooking and all of my aunts and my mom pitch in. But this year, I'm going to make a green bean casserole ( I can't cook, so this is big).

For those of you who are doing the same or tackling the big feast on their own, I've looked around for the top ten Thanksgiving cookbooks. Tara's Kitchen Online Blog, http://taraskitchenonline.wordpress.com/2008/11/01/top-10-thanksgiving-cookbooks/, had the most diverse list of cookbooks, providing new and old recipes and secrets to make the perfect turkey. Check them out, and have a great holiday !

1. Thanksgiving: Festive Recipes for the Holiday Table
2. Thanksgiving 101: Celebrate America’s Favorite Holiday
3. The Thanksgiving Table: Recipes and Ideas to Create Your Own Holiday Tradition
4. How to Cook a Turkey: *And All the Other Trimmings
5. Betty Crocker Complete Thanksgiving Cookbook
6. How To Cook a Cheap and Easy Thanksgiving Dinner
7. Giving Thanks: Thanksgiving Recipes and History, from Pilgrims to Pumpkin Pie
8. Vegetarian Times Complete Thanksgiving Cookbook
9. How to Cook the Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner
10. Thanksgiving Recipes – A Wonderful Collection of Traditional Thanksgiving Recipes!

Beat the Black Friday Rush...

It's that time of year again, Black Friday. The early morning sales and the ridiculously long lines. Well, if you're like me and don't want to wait, or wake up for that matter, than you should check out Barnes & Nobles pre-Black Friday and Black Friday sales.

Everything from nook accessories to books and movies and more are up to 45 % off. And the best part, you don't have to wake up at 5 a.m., or even leave you house to take advantage of these deals. Check out Barnes & Nobles to shop from over 1,000 gift ideas! You can even get a free $10 e-card when you spend a $100 or more. That could be one free book for your nook, so check it out, http://www.barnesandnoble.com/holiday-gifts/index.asp.

Monday, November 22, 2010

What's the Difference....

For quite some time, I have been stumped by the separation of paperbacks and hard cover books. So I am going to pose a question here : Why is it that sites have compiled lists of the best selling paperbacks and the best selling hard covers ? Essentially, its the same book . The only real differences are the texture of the pages and the cover. And the only real benefits are that they offer consumers differences in prices.

So why then do sites and book stores compile two different lists ? If it is selling well in either category, or both, it is still a best selling book. Why does it need to be a best selling paperback or a best selling hard cover? Does separating the two into these categories sway consumers to buy in one way or another?

Another issues that stumps me is that the bestselling hardbacks and the best selling paperbacks lists rarely ever have the same books. Take for example Barnes & Nobles bestselling list for today, http://www.barnesandnoble.com/u/Bestseller-Books/379001057/. The first on the top ten for hard covers is George W. Bush's, "Decision Points." While the number one selling book on the paperback's list is "Heaven is for Real," by Todd Burpo.

Maybe I'm the only one who notices, or really cares, but I'm interested to find out the reasons....

Saturday, November 20, 2010

It's Cheap...

In keeping with a theme, I wanted to offer some other ideas for acquiring books on a budget. Like everyone else, at this time of the year all of my money is wrapped up in Christmas gifts. And like everyone else, or it is possible its just me, my reading list keeps getting longer.

While I love my nook, buying or renting an e-book can get pricey. And while most paperbacks are pretty cheap, I don't have the room to store the books I buy. So I've come up with a nifty little strategy. Whenever I stumble upon books at a garage sale or thrift store, I buy them ( I make sure I'm interested in them first).

Then when I'm through reading them, I either sell them at another garage sale or donate them. Buying books this way is ridiculously cheap; I've never paid more than $5 for a book. And when I'm done, I essentially get my money back. Plus making a donation to Goodwill or the Salvation Army never hurts.

Most of the time, the books are like new, and it's a great way to save money.  Also, some books stores have an exchange program, I believe Half Price Books is one of the stores, where you can exchange old books for other ones or store credit, http://www.halfpricebooks.com/. So if you have any old books lying around, give it a try.

Be a Borrower...

While I love to read, keeping up with the latest literature can be pretty expensive. Books and e-books start at $15 and work their way up, especially if they are a new release. And although there is always the choice of your local library, there can be a hefty waiting list for the books you want.

So I recommend an old, but forgotten idea; borrow a book. My aunt and I exchange books all the time, and in doing so we expose one another to all types of genres as well as keeping the costs down. Exchanging books also offers us a conversation stater, and most of the time we create our own little book club. In doing so, our exchanges have provided us with a common bond and have made us much closer.

My only word of advice when letting others borrow your books is to make sure that you and the person you are lending the books to have an understanding. There is nothing worse than lending a book out and having it returned to you in shambles.

So the next time your looking for a new read, ask around. You may be surprised at what you can kind in the process.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Monday, November 15, 2010

The new nookcolor !

I've been avoiding this post for awhile, so I must apologize. My reasons are simple, I'm jealous and torn. As you know, I got a nook for my birthday in July. I love it, and have had little complaints about it. WELL, several weeks ago Barnes & Nobles introduced the nookcolor.

When I first heard about it, I thought that it would basically be the same thing, except that everything would be in color. Silly me ! It is  a completely new beast.  It actually reminds me of the iPad, which is where I am torn. In my opinion, the nookcolor doesn't do nearly as much as the iPad. Yet those that are reviewing the nookcolor say its now the iPad's biggest competitor.  Personally, I'd rather have the iPad than the nookcolor, but I will admit it is pretty awesome. Crave did a pretty nice write up and really offers a great overview, http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-20020747-1.html.


 
Here are some of the aspects provided by Crave:
  • 7-inch VividView color touch screen (1,024x600 pixel resolution at 169 ppi; more than 16 million colors)
  • 8.1 inches by 5 inches by .48 inches (HWD)
  • 15.8 ounces
  • Built-in Wi-Fi
  • Runs on Android 2.1 (upgradeable to 2.2 in 2011)
  • 8GB of built-in memory, plus microSD expansion slot for adding more memory
  • Supports PDF and ePub files, as well Word, Excel, and PowerPoint using built-in Quickoffice software
  • Image files supported: JPG, PNG, GIF, and BMP files (use personal photos for wallpaper)
  • Video playback via Android Media Player
  • Sealed-in battery delivers eight hours of continuous reading time
  • Pandora preloaded
  • Web browser (no Flash support in Android 2.1 but will be added in 2.2)
  • No Android Market, but Barnes & Noble will sell some apps through its own store
  • Integrated social-networking and LendMe apps
  • Price: $249
  • Available in Barnes & Noble stores, Best Buy, Wal-Mart, and Books-A-Million
 To interact with the nookcolor and to learn more, visit Barnes&Nobles at http://www.barnesandnoble.com/nookcolor/index.asp?cm_sp=Gateway-_-NOOKcolor-_-Explore%20Now%20Btn&cds2Pid=30919.

Friday, November 12, 2010

Barnes & Nobles, more to Offer than just Books !

As you know, I really utilize the Barnes & Nobles web site, and for good reasons. They have so much to offer including reviews, top books, e-books,  and interviews with authors just to name a few. One of my favorite aspects of Barnes & Nobles is their facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/#!/barnesandnoble.

They offer special features like discounts on books or accessories, exclusive videos and interviews and conversation starters. I make sure to check out the page at least once a day, and today I found something new ! Every month they compile a list of the top selling books and offer discounts to online buyers. I think I mentioned this before, but the discounts are new.  As I was looking at  November's list, I noticed they also complied a list of the "hour's" top selling books. Each hour they update the page with their most popular books.

From what I can tell, their  lists are pretty diverse, and each link takes you to the book's individual page where you can learn more about the author or purchase the book ( if you buy online you get a discount).  I suggest checking it out, if nothing more can you see if the book interests. For today's lists, and others, visit http://www.barnesandnoble.com/u/Books-Fiction-Nonfiction-Must-Reads/379002364/?cds2Pid=30121.

 In the meantime,  November 12th 2 o'clock bestsellers are...

  1. Decision Points
    by George W. Bush
  2. The Ugly Truth (Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series #5)
    by Jeff Kinney
  3. The Confession
    by John Grisham
  4. Autobiography of Mark Twain
    by Mark Twain
  5. Elf on the Shelf
    by Carol V. Aebersold
  6. Full Dark, No Stars
    by Stephen King
  7. Hell's Corner (Camel Club Series #5)
    by David Baldacci
  8. Cleopatra
    by Stacy Schiff
  9. Barefoot Contessa How Easy Is That?
    by Ina Garten
  10. The Lost Hero (Heroes of Olympus Series #1)
    by Rick Riordan

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Book-Based Films, Why must you Upset Me ?

When I started this blog, I set some goals for myself. One of those goals was to turn this blog into something useful for my audience. In other words, I promised myself I wouldn't rant. However, there is a "subject" that I can no longer ignore. I HATE when books are turned into movies !!!

About 70 % of the time, the movie is interpreted completely different from the book. The characters may be the same, but too many things are changed or tweaked. Take, for example, "The Lords of The Rings." While I LOVED the movies, I felt that there were too many things missing.  Maybe it was the fact that I am just a really big nerd, but regardless I felt like things were almost incomplete. I realize that there is only so long that people are willing to sit in a theater. But, wouldn't you rather sit there an extra half an hour than walk away feeling disappointed?

Others complain about the Twilight movies, but I can't comment because I refuse to both read the books or see the movies ( I know weird right ? But I feel like I need to put my foot down somewhere.) 

I do have to admit though that there are some books that are translated to the T. The bug that got this little bitch-fest started is the quickly approaching premier of the final installments of the Harry Potter books. I think the producers and directors have done a great job so far. However, I am a bit annoyed that they are breaking the final book into two films. I am SICK of waiting for this to finish. Not the mention the fact that I am a little tired of contributing to J.K. Rowling millions.

Plus, if whoever wrote this money globber doesn't do Dumbledore's death justice, I'll flip ! To get tickets or to see movie times visit, http://www.fandango.com/.

My hope for future book-based productions, is that producer/writers respect the original score, and attempt to do the book some justice. Most books that are translated to film are best sellers, so in my opinion they've already done the hard part, getting people interested.

So there is my rant, but I must ask, were do you stand on book-based films?

Monday, November 8, 2010

Fellow Students Weigh in, Which Trilogies and Series are your Favorite?

I was updating my Goodreads account, when I noticed I've been stuck on trilogies or series lately. I've finally progressed on the Stieg Larsson's Millennium Series, which Barnes & Nobles is now taking orders for the holidays, http://www.barnesandnoble.com/u/Books-Thrillers-Stieg-Larsson-Millennium-Trilogy/379002100/?cds2Pid=16743&linkid=1621110.

 But after reviewing my little list, I was wondering what the more popular trilogies or series are? 

I checked my sites to see if any lists were available, and was surprised to learn that there was not. So I asked around and complied a list for myself. I am not going to rate these, because everyone has their own opinions and I have not personally read many of these.


"Harry Potter," by J.K. Rowling
"Lords of the Rings," by J.R.R. Tolkien
" Millennium Series," by Stieg Larsson
"Twilight," by Stephenie Meyer
"Game of Thrones," by George R.R. Martin
"Gemma Doyle Trilog," by Libba Bray
"Dune," by Frank Herbert
"Sandman,"by Neil Gaiman
"The Golden Compass," by Philip Pullman
"The Chronicles of Narnia," by C.S. Lewis

The ones that I have read, like "Harry Potter" and "Lords of the Rings," I've enjoyed. The others, like "The Golden Compass," I've considered children's books. However, after listening to some of my fellow students explain, they seem like they are worth giving a try.

For  full reviews on any of these books visit, http://www.goodreads.com/.

Saturday, November 6, 2010

Memoirs, To Read or Not Read ?

I want to pose a question here. How many of you are interested in "famous" memoirs? I've tried to read a couple in the past, and just had to put them down. I felt like I was choking the contents down. The only one that I can say I've enjoyed was, "I Am the Central Park Jogger: A Story of Hope and Possibility," by Trisha Meili. Maybe it was the fact that she, herself, was not famous. The incident in which she was involved is what spotlighted her.

 Regardless, it was an amazing book focusing on the power of hope and how, after a horrible incident, you can rebuild your life. I was addicted to the pages, and Meili underlying meaning. If you are ever looking for something to put your life in perspective, read it, http://www.brainline.org/content/2008/08/i-am-central-park-jogger-story-hope-and-possibility.html.

Meili wrote the book to clear up the numerous misconception about her life and the incident. However, others who try to do the same seem to fail. President Bush's memoir is set to be released next Tuesday. The New York Times has several reviews up, http://papercuts.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/11/05/bushnixon/. I am not sure if I'll pick up or another memoir.

Motion Sickness ? Try Books on Tape !

taken from getty images
With the holidays right around the corner, many of us will soon be traveling home or visiting relatives. However, passing the time on those long rides can  prove to be a problem. If your computer has a long battery life or if you have access to an outlet, you  can pass the time search the web or creeping on facebook. The same can be done if you have an iPad or a smart phone.

But if you don't have to a computer or other technologies, what can you do? I suggest reading. Nothing passes the time like getting lost in a book. Throw your favorite book into your bag or take along your e-reader. But if you are like me, and get sick in the car, what other options do you have?

Many people forget about books on tape. Some people find them inconvenient or impersonal. Others find them to be a great way to multitask. However you feel about them, I suggest giving them a try. I recently tired a book on tape and was pleasantly surprised to find that I really enjoyed it.

Plus, they are fairly easy to get your hands on. You can rent one from your local library or university library and pop it in as you drive along. You can even rent/buy them from iTunes and download it to your library. I think downloading them gives you more options and you can listen to the book at your own pace. Plus, if you constantly take your iPod along, you can "read" whenever you have some free time !

To download iTunes or to see what's new visit, http://www.apple.com/itunes/ .

Monday, November 1, 2010

Hate Reading your Textbooks? Try one of these Tips !

One of the requirements, for the majority of my classes and I'm sure yours, is to read the assigned textbooks. I make sure to do this religiously, as to not to fall behind.  ( I'm a nerd, I know). But sometimes the material is just so boring.

When I was assigned to read a variety of material for my Media Ethics class, I assumed I would be uninterested and bored, forcing myself to take it all in. However, I was surprised to learn it was the opposite, especially the book I choose for a report, " The Paperboy," by Pete Dexter. I can't put the thing down.

Luckily the book  and the material circles around subjects I enjoy, journalism and the those that are wrongly convicted of a crime. But for fellow classmates who do not enjoy the selection of books or material, what can they do to make reading them more interesting ?

In my opinion, you have to be open to a book regardless if it is a textbook or a novel. I agree that the material either grabs you or it doesn't, but you do have to give it a try. If that doesn't work, try one of these tips to help you out. They work for both textbooks or assigned novels.

TEN TIPS FOR READING TEXTBOOKS- from the University of Arizona studentaffairs.arizona.edu/thinktank

1. Get it right away.
Don’t put off buying textbooks until the day before your first test! Cramming at the last moment is difficult, particularly in science courses!

2. Plan a reading schedule and stick to it.
Spreading out your reading time over the course of the term will make your actual reading more productive. Plan to read one chapter a night, for example, and you'll find you have less work to do for tests and exams.

3. Survey the book.
Glance over the textbook's chapter headings, subtitles, and charts or graphs which sum up and clarify main points before you start a complete reading.

4. Mark it up.
Simply reading the text will not help you really absorb the information it provides. Underline or highlight important facts, figures and phrases, and write your own comments and questions in the margins.

5. Take notes.
Yes, you took notes from class lectures. Now take notes from the textbook itself. It means a bit more homework, but you'll find it pays off come exam time! Or when you have to write a paper !

6. Read and reread.
Does this sound repetitive to you? Well, it is, and that's the whole point! Repetition, one of the most useful--at least used-- ways to get the most out of your text. Read text thoroughly and actively (highlight and take notes) and then skim read the text several times to get an overall sense of the main ideas without having to read every single line again.

7. Ask it questions.
Think of questions you have for the text and read it to answer those questions. This kind of interactive approach will make your reading more effective.

8. Ask your teacher questions.
If your questions about certain concepts and theories aren't answered to your satisfaction by the textbook, ask your teacher, ask your teacher in class or during her office hours.

9. Review orally.
After you have read a section or chapter of your textbook close the book and try to describe out loud the main ideas you have learned. Talking about ideas helps you to understand and remember them.

10. Pay special attention to introductions and conclusions.
These sections of textbooks are really important, because they highlight important ideas and facts. Some textbooks present these sections in point form for extra clarity.

Friday, October 29, 2010

Trick-or-Treat, Smell my Feet, Give me Something Good to READ !

You all must hate me by now, but I can't resist. I love Halloween and everything and anything connected to it. I wanted to feature books or stories about Halloween candy and how it became a popular tradition, but I can't find anything GOOD !

I am very disappointed to say the least. I thought I hit the jackpot when I located a book called, "Candy Man," but sadly it had very little to do with candy. Side note here, if any of you know of such a book can you let me know ? Its turning into a must-find for my sanity and curiosity.

Nonetheless, as I was perusing the web and my usual sites, I stumbled upon two lists of Halloween reads. These books are nothing like the ones I posted on Monday. Some of these are creepy, very creepy.

Barnes & Nobles held a Halloween book discussion, http://bookclubs.barnesandnoble.com/t5/Paranormal-Urban-Fantasy/Halloween-Reads/m-p/394502, and I suggest checking it out. Were not talking Twilight or Dracula here. These books are scary.

And of course, good old Goodreads came through with numerous lists of books. There is fiction, non-fiction, children, adults, you name it they have it ( except for a book about candy !!!) . Here is the adult list, http://www.goodreads.com/search/search?q=halloween+books+for+adults&group_id=&search_type=books&search[source]=goodreads&search[field]=on, but once you are on the site, just search for what genre you are looking for. Good luck and have a fantastic Halloween !!

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Baseball and Lords of Rings ? Find out if this is what Fellow Students are Planning to Read.

So after my post about what I'm looking forward to reading over the breaks, I decided to ask some of my fellow students. Check it out !

Books Instead of Candy for Halloween

From the "Books For Treats" site
Over the years, I've heard people talk about handing out books  for Halloween instead of candy. I always thought that it was some joke, or that one of the old ladies in the neighborhood decided to do it on their own. I was shocked when I learned that it is now a nation wide "treat."  The event, "Books For Treats" started in 2001 in San Jose, and has handed out over 6,000 books each Halloween.

According to their site, "Books For Treats," "is a program that encourages you to give 'gently read' children’s books at Halloween instead of candy." The program's slogan, "Give Brain Candy. Feed Kids' Minds Not their Cavities," pretty much sums up their goals.

So why do this ? The site offers some pretty crazy stats - "Recent statistics show that annually Americans spend $950 million on Halloween candy, and that 20 million pounds of candy corn alone is purchased. The average person spends nearly $15 on the Halloween candy — much of it being consumed before Halloween by the adults or their kids."

This program was originated in an attempt to help fight childhood obesity and diabetes, and to get children to read more. I don't know how I would have felt if someone dropped a book in my trick-or-treat bag all those years ago, but I think this is a fabulous idea now. The site, http://booksfortreats.org/, lists information on how to get involved and where and how you can donate books.

Monday, October 25, 2010

Halloween ! A list of spooky reads !

Halloween is on Sunday ! It is one of my favorite holidays. Decorating, eating treats, and watching the little kids get all dressed up, it makes me miss my childhood. I even remember reading my favorite Halloween themed books as a kid. Which got me thinking, what spooky or history-rich books are available for the young at heart ?

As I searched, I stumbled upon numerous web sites. Since I love Halloween as much as I do, I think I might dedicate the week to spooky books !

Here's what the associated content from Yahoo picked for their top ten, http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2157879/top_10_halloween_books_for_adults.html?cat=38.

1. "Dracula," by Bram Stoker
Simon & Schuster, 2003 (Originally published 1897)
I couldn't resist !

2. "The Shining, " by Stephen King
Pocket, 2002 (Originally published 1977)

 3. "Frankenstein," by Mary Shelley
Penguin Classics, 2003 (Originally published 1818)

4. "The Exorcist," by William Peter Blatty
HarperTorch, 1994. (Originally published 1971) 

5. "A Stir of Echoes," by Richard Matheson
Tor Books, 2008. (Originally published 1958

6. "The Best of Poe: Tell-Tale Heart, The Raven, The Cask of Amontillado and 30 Others," by
Edgar Allan Poe
Prestwick House, Inc., 2006

7. "The Graveyard Book," by Neil Gaiman
HarperCollins, 2008

8. "Interview with the Vampire," by Anne Rice
Ballantine Books, 1997. (Originally published 1976)

9. "Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West," by Gregory Maguire
Harper, 2007. 

10. "Halloween: From Pagan Ritual to Party Night," by Nicholas Rogers
Oxford University Press, 2002. 

The link also provides some pretty detailed descriptions of the books. Check them out before the bewitching hour passes !

Saturday, October 23, 2010

Blogs, and Lots of Them !

Before I even started Page Turner, I did some research. I looked at what similar blogs were doing, their content and what seemed to attract their readers. Over time, some blogs became more helpful than others. So I started to look for an expanded list of book or reading blogs.

As I was searching, I stumbled upon gold. The site, Online Universities.com, has complied a list of "101 Book Blogs You Need to Read." The list includes blogs for every genre and interest.

http://www.onlineuniversities.com/blog/2009/10/101-book-blogs-you-need-to-read/

The site also complied a list of what it considers to be the top 10. According to the site, "these ten book blogs are the most popular, most informative out there, and they contain information about the widest number of genres." Check them out !
  1. The Millions: This book blog is like an all-inclusive resort for readers and literature buffs. With all genres and cultures included, it contains news and book reviews every reader can use.
  2. Critical Mass: Critical Mass is written by professional book reviewers. Rather than review books, they provide book and author news that only they, as professionals, get to hear.
  3. Baby Got Books: Reviews and commentary by readers who keep you informed about the year’s biggest releases.
  4. The Elegant Variation: The list of book recommendations on this literary news site will never leave you disappointed.
  5. Blog of a Bookslut: Bookslut is famous among book blogs, and one of the most popular in the the world of online book news and reviews.
  6. A Life in Books: This librarian shares her passion for books and reading, and her professional commentary is useful for followers looking for a great read.
  7. Beth Fish Reads: This book lover and freelance book professional posts book reviews and participates in reading challenges and bookish memes.
  8. Bluestalking: A reading enthusiast shares her years of literary reviews and criticism with the world in this interesting and thorough blog.
  9. Book Addiction: Heather, a 25-year-old book addict from Chicago, keeps track of her reading conquests, shares her opinions of recent releases, and develops a list of recommendations on this blog.
  10. Candy Covered Books: This blog "gathers reviews from a wide variety of sources and averages them into a single rating so you don’t waste valuable time reading anything less than fabulous."

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Golden Oldies Got Me Thinking...What Were my Favorite Books in the 90s?

So I have really been thinking a lot about the books I read during my childhood. Then I started thinking about the books I read in the 8th grade onwards. Its funny how quickly time moves and how things that were so important or "in" are now a thing of the past. While that can be said for a lot of things in my childhood/teen years, it seems not to be the case with books.

Goodreads has a list of teen books from the 90s, and I have to say it it spot on if you where a teenage girl, http://www.goodreads.com/list/show/2658.Teen_Novels_of_the_90s. The funny thing is, that the majority of the books listed are still read and enjoyed today. Here's what Goodreads is calling their top 10...

1.  "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban," by J.K. Rowling
2.  "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone," by J.K. Rowling
3.  "Speak,"by Laurie Halse Anderson
4.  "The Giver," by Lois Lowry
5.  "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets," by J.K. Rowling
6.  "Wild Magic," by Tamora Pierce
7.  "Keeping the Moon,"by Sarah Dessen
8. "Saving Jessica," by Lurlene McDaniel
9.  "Love among the Walnuts," by Jean Ferris
10. "Wolf-Speaker," by Tamora Pierce


While I haven't read all of the book here ( I was all over  "The Giver" and the Harry Potter series), the complete list, in my opinions, best represents what we females were reading all those years ago. It make me want to revisit some of them, and either give them another try or still see if they are as enjoyable as they were then. Guys, I think you fit on here in some instances. But, and because I was never a teenage boy, can judge. What were you reading in the 90s?

Monday, October 18, 2010

Golden Oldies - My Favorite Childhood Books

I decided to grace my parents this weekend with my presence, and they put me to work. This is typical, but for once I was shocked. My parents are finally empty nesters and are trying to rearrange the house. Over the years, my brother and I have complied several large piles of books and my mom wanted to consolidate some ( which I thought would never happen because my mother can be defined as a borderline hoarder! )


Never in my whole 22-years have I ever had trouble throwing something away. But when she asked me to pitch my childhood books, I refused. Tons of memories came flooding back as I reread "Goodnight Moon" for the first time in years.

I grabbed as many books as I could hide under my bed and decided to put them away for my theoretical children. I think there is something special about sharing something from your childhood with your children, or so I'm told.

Which got me thinking. What were the top five books from my childhood? It took me awhile, but I think I've narrowed it down.

1. "Were the Wild Things Are," by Maurice Sendak
2. "Goodnight Moon," by Margaret Wise Brown
3. "If You Give a Mouse a Cookie," by Laura Joffe Numeroff   
4. "The Rainbow Fish," by Marcus Pfister
5.  "The Very Hungry Caterpillar," by Eric Carle

 I still love these books, and I think it is safe to say that they'll continue to transcended the generations.

Sunday, October 17, 2010

E-Reader Battle: the nook or the Kindle?

From Digital Trends
Even before I begged for the nook, I made sure to compared it to the Kindle. I read articles, asked questions, I borrowed the two devices from my friends. My dad even became engulfed in the research. In the end, I asked for the nook. Not only because of the price and the gadgets, but because I thought it was a better machine.

With Christmas only 8 WEEKS AWAY, my friends and family having been asking me which device is better. But you see, I'm bias. Other than the fact that my nook doesn't have a back light, I'm in love.

So I've pulled up some articles that compare that two and the Sony e-reader. Hope this helps !

 How to choose between the three.
http://www.digitaltrends.com/gadgets/choosing-an-e-book-reader-for-christmas/

Which is better ? (This is from last Christmas, but it still rings true!)
http://www.digitaltrends.com/gadgets/kindle-vs-nook-an-e-reader-face-off/

Thinking Ahead to Thanksgiving Break

First off, let me apologize for being absent most of this week and for posting these so late. Last week was my hell week, or midterm week. Unfortunately, I was preoccupied with studying. And while I had my head stuffed in notes and textbooks, the only thing I kept thinking about was Thanksgiving Break!

I've always made it a tradition, or rather a mandatory thing, to read as many books as possible over the breaks.  Especially this year. I graduate in the spring (ahhhhhhh!) and I want to read as many books as possible because I may not get the opportunity to spend my summer lost in books.

So, I'm compiling tons of books into my Goodreads account ( or I should say I have six lists scattered around my dorm room waiting to be placed into the account) http://www.goodreads.com/. I'm so excited about some of them, like the sequel to the "Girl with the Dragon Tattoo," " The Girl that Played with Fire," that I can't contain myself much longer. I'm even working ahead to make sure the whole week can be dedicated to reading.

For those in a similar situation, I suggest you do the same. Who knows if once were thrown into the real world if we'll have time to read, or doing much of anything else but work.

Monday, October 11, 2010

My Protection Doesn't Fit !!!!

After waiting for eight days, my rear cover finally came in the mail. As I tore through the box, the last thing on my mind was worrying about some form of assembly for this thing. Yet when I took it out of the packaging, I realized that the rear cover was not what I expected.

I think I am going to give this one a try...
My first thought was 'don't panic read the directions,' but they proved to be little help.  In the four lines that are suppose to pass off as directions, they describe a cracking sound as you pull of the original cover. Once you've supposedly pried off the back cover, you place this new one on. Well needless to say I'm terrified to pry off the original cover. I'm known for breaking things, and I really don't want to break my nook.

 Not wanting to cause World War III either,  I  had to hide the cover from the boyfriend ( my luck he'd break the thing and we'd strangle each other.) So I guess I am going to send it back. Anyone else happen to purchase this product and actually get it to fit on the nook?

I've read customer views, and everyone just raves about it, http://gifts.barnesandnoble.com/Signature-Rear-Cover-in-Grapefruit/e/9781615544707/?cds2Pid=30687. They also say it is easy to change, but I don't think so. Plus, I think there is too great a risk for damaging your device with this product, because if you hold it the wrong way you can crack the screen. 

I only have 14 days to figure this out, but I think my best bet is to send it back and buy the case that encloses the entire nook. I'm not too happy about it, but I'd rather my nook have some form of protection then none at all.

Friday, October 8, 2010

I Suggest Protection, For the nook that is....

BUY THIS !
So my nook has finally been seeing some action. Between the boyfriend and I, it gets used on a regular basis.  After I opened the nook, I realized how fragile it potentially could be. So I decided I needed to buy some sort of protection for it. The day after I went straight to Barnes & Nobles and asked what types of cases they recommended. I didn't like the flap cover ( the covers that look a book) and they didn't have any of the hard cases in store.

But the sales clerk reassured me that I only really need the case for carrying purposes. So I bought a soft case that enclosed the device. I also bought the plastic, clingy thing that protects the screen. When I left the store, I was happy with my purchases. They were cheap and seemed to do the trick.

That is until last week, when I noticed that the color of the soft protective case has started to rub off on the nook. Thus leaving black stains on the back side of  my lily white device. I am livid to say the least. But I guess there is really only one person to blame - the sales clerk.

After learning my lesson the hard way, I recently purchased a hard back cover. They do offer hard covers that enclose the entire nook, but I didn't like them. It was almost odd to click the page buttons. Other than the color, I picked grapefruit and bf is embarrassed, we both agree it was a great buy. A buy, that I might add, that everyone should invest in. Really, we buy these things in the hopes that they will last, and I believe the back cover is will help it get a few more uses.

For a complete list of covers and fun add-ons, visits the Barnes & Nobles web site, http://www.barnesandnoble.com/, and click on nook !

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

The Weekly List

Chronicle online
OK, so I've been reading other blogs with similar content and google searching for days. I wanted to know what people thought college students are reading, and I was disappointed. The lists were odd.  Several of the lists, though they said they were geared towards college students, seemed very high school in content.

However, I came across The Chronicle of Higher Education's list, http://chronicle.com/article/What-Theyre-Reading-on/63471/, and it seemed to be the best. And when I say best, I mean that their list, in my mind, best represents several genres that college students are interested in.

These ten books are best-sellers on college campuses this fall. I have not personally read them, but I have read synopses of some. I'm not too interested in these genres at the moment ( I go back and forth between genres like the pendulum of a clock). Since I was so disappointed with my search, I've decided to consult a librarian at Point Park and ask her for a list of 100 books. I hoping she'll be able to give me some resources or tell me how popular the list is with students. From there I am going to make my future choices. Although I was a bit disappointed these hopefully may appeal to you. What do you think of this list ? Do you think this is what college students are interested in ? 

    The Lost Symbol
    by Dan Brown

    Superfreakonomics
   by Steven D. Levitt, Stephen J. Dubner 

    Eclipse
    by Stephenie Meyer

    The Time Traveler's Wife
    by Audrey Niffenegger

    Precious (Push Movie Tie-in Edition)
    by Sapphire

   What the Dog Saw: And Other Adventures
    by Malcolm Gladwell

   Pride and Prejudice and Zombies
   by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith

   Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything
   by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner 

   Push
   by Sapphire

   The Gathering Storm
   by Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson























































Monday, October 4, 2010

Good Read Suggestion !

So, I am evetually going to get to the lists, I promise. In the meantime, I have to suggest a book ! I've looked over everyone votes on the poll, and I thank those that have helped me out, and I noticed that there were seven genres that were of interest. Those seven where crime, history, poetry, memoirs, romantic, drama and comedy.

Currently, I am reading  a book that fits into about five of the above mentioned genres. The book, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson, is a great read. I gave up on Charlie Wilson's War for now, but I'll get to that at another time.

There is mystery, love, murder, revenge, history, I mean the list just keeps going and going. I really have trouble putting it down, and I keep ignoring my work to read it ( which may or may not be turning into a problem). This is actualy kind of suprising to me given the first three chapters of the book.

Before I picked this up, I heard several complaints about how hard or uninteresting it was to read. Those people put the book down and never picked it back up. But I say, give it a chance. Yes the first three chapters are a little boring. And yes, at first you have no idea what is going on, but once you get away from those chapters everything comes together for a perfect story.

As I gaze at its cover, longing to pick it back up again, I desperately want to divulge to you every piece of info that I can. But I wont because I want you to read this. And no, the story plots are not just appealing to women. It is a great read for everyone. As The Washington Post's review says, and it couldn't be more true,"wildly suspenseful....an intelligent, ingeniously plotted, utterly engrossing thriller."

Oh and a quick p.s. - it was made into a movie and will eventually be released in the U.S. !

Friday, October 1, 2010

Banned Book Week 2010 : A Recap

As Banned Book Week comes to a close, I am still surprised by the number of challenges certain books or subjects have received over the last several years.  People read books to experience other cultures and to better understand our own. They read to learn and and open their minds. And authors write to challenge the world and to better express themselves.

Reading is choice. I feel that anyone and everyone has the right to read, and to read whatever they choose no matter what subjects the plot may dabble with.

As I browsed several sites, looking for ways to promote awareness about the issue, I stumbled across a list of events. This list suggests a wide variety of ways to push back. One suggestion was to captured a student, through film or video, reading a banned book and have them sum up their feelings on the book. (If it was done through photos, have them write it down on the back). After you have collected a couple images, you can place them in your local library.

Another idea was to organize a forum about banned books. This can be done a number of ways. Talk to your friends about it, find out their ideas. Bring up the subject in one of your classes, if it is appropriate, and discuss it with your classmates and professors, or talk to me.

Others suggested writing to your local and school newspapers, in the form of a letter to the editor. But however you choose to participate or not, just make sure to give one of the banned books a chance. You could be surprised.

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Banned Book Week : Top 10 Banned Books for 2009

Like I said, this week's blogs will be dedicated to Banned Book Week and spreading awareness. The American Library Association listed the top 10 banned books for 2009, and many of them are well-known favorites.

The top 10 are as follows.

1. ttyl; ttfn; l8r, g8r (series), by Lauren Myracle
Reasons: drugs, nudity, offensive language, sexually explicit, unsuited to age group

2. And Tango Makes Three, by Peter Parnell and Justin Richardson
Reasons: homosexuality

3. The Perks of Being A Wallflower, by Stephen Chbosky
Reasons: anti-family, drugs, homosexuality, offensive language, religious viewpoint, sexually explicit, suicide, unsuited to age group

4. To Kill A Mockingbird, by Harper Lee
Reasons: offensive language, racism, unsuited to age group

5. Twilight (series) by Stephenie Meyer
Reasons: religious viewpoint, sexually explicit, unsuited to age group

6. Catcher in the Rye, by J.D. Salinger
Reasons: offensive language, sexually explicit, unsuited to age group

7. My Sister’s Keeper, by Jodi Picoult
Reasons: homosexuality, offensive language, religious viewpoint, sexism, sexually explicit, unsuited to age group, violence

8. The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big, Round Things, by Carolyn Mackler
Reasons: offensive language, sexually explicit, unsuited to age group

9. The Color Purple, by Alice Walker
Reasons: offensive language, sexually explicit, unsuited to age group

10. The Chocolate War, by Robert Cormier
Reasons: nudity, offensive language, sexually explicit, unsuited to age group

I've read several, including The Color Purple and To Kill a Mockingbird, and not once did I think the subjects were inappropriate. Surprisingly enough, the reasons for banning the book seem to be popular topics and focus in society, and most people encounter these issues in everyday life.

Point Park University's Library : A great place to explore.

For those of you that don't know, I am a student at Point Park University in downtown Pittsburgh. Surprisingly, our library is great. They have tons of books and a variety of resources. I figured I'd give everyone a quick tour ( I am also attempting to learn to take decent photos. As you can see, I'm still learning.)

Monday, September 27, 2010

Banned Book Week ! Sept 25 - Oct 2 2010

For those of you who don't know, and for those that do as well, Septmember 25-October 2 is Banned Book Week. The week long event, according to the American Library Association, is an  "annual event celebrating the freedom to read and the importance of the First Amendment."

Banned Book Week is meant to draw attention to the harms of censorship by focusing on actual banned books in the U.S. The ALA stresses the importance of intellectual freedom, or the freedom to access information and express your ideas. This emphasis is the basis for the week.

As I visited the ALA web site I found a shocking figure. According to the site, over the last nine years American libraries were faced with 4,312 challenges.
  • 1,413 challenges due to “sexually explicit” material;
  • 1,125 challenges due to “offensive language”;
  • 897 challenges due to material deemed “unsuited to age group”;
  • 514 challenges due to “violence”
  • 344 challenges due to “homosexuality”; and
Another, "109 materials were challenged because they were “anti-family,” and an additional 269 were challenged because of their “religious viewpoints.”

The site explained that "1,502 of these challenges (approximately 34%) were in classrooms; 33% were in school libraries; 23% (or 1,032) took place in public libraries.  There were 100 challenges to college classes; and only 29 to academic libraries.  There are isolated cases of challenges to materials made available in or by prisons, special libraries, community groups, and student groups.  The majority of challenges were initiated by parents (almost exactly 48%), while patrons and administrators followed behind (10%).

When I read this, my jaw dropped. Most notably when I saw that 100 challenges have come from college classes. My thought was that college was the time to experience new literature and readings.


Nonetheless, in honor of this week, and because I think that this is really interesting, I am going to dedicate the blog to helping spread awareness.


 All information and statics can be found at the American Library Assoication - http://www.ala.org/ala/issuesadvocacy/banned/frequentlychallenged/21stcenturychallenged/index.cfm . In the meantime, feel free to visit for more inforamtion !

Friday, September 24, 2010

Looking for a Great Way to Relax ? Pick up a Book !

I tend to be a high-strung person by nature, and over the years I've found two things that help me relax and clear my head- reading and exercise. While there are other benefits to working out, nothing is better than coming home at the end of the day and picking up a book.

Originally used at Book Blog
There is just something about focusing on the words that seems to melt everything else away. Books provide us with an escape, a way to forget about that big test or to forget about the work load pilling up.

While reading tends to be relaxing, there are others benefit from picking up a book. Reading allows the mind to branch out, and according to Impact Publishing (http://impactpublishingonline.com/index.php/reading/), those that read on a regular basis have improved moods.

And although your reading that book on sports or that love story for fun, it can also help to increase your brain function and teach you better grammar and comprehension.

It has even been shown that reading at least once a week can prevent illnesses such as dementia (http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2003/06/18/earlyshow/contributors/emilysenay/main559301.shtml).

I can't tell you the number of times that I've been stressed out  and picked up a book. Just yesterday I had trouble sleeping  because I was worrying about pointless stuff. So I picked up a book and after ten minutes, I fell asleep.  Out cold.

So the next time you start to worry about your research paper, pick up a book and read. It doesn't have to be for an extended period of time, just 15 minutes to a half an hour. Afterward, you'll feel like a new person !

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Gawker and the New York Review of Books- Great lists and previews of what's to come !

So while I'm waiting for some more feed back, which once I get I will settle into a routine, I've decided to search around for some interesting sites that feature books or reading.

And so far, the result have been pretty satisfying. Gawker recently came to my attention by accident. I've always heard that fall, and depending on who you talk to summer, are the best times of year to read. So I google searched "best times to read," and up pops Gawker with a list of books to read this fall. Most of which are recent releases or books to be released in the upcoming months.

Several of the titles I've seen quite a bit in recent weeks in promotions and such. I thought I'd share, and give you a preview of what I hope to accomplish- a weekly list of ten or so books accompanied by a short synopsis/review. It's an attractive site, and after reading previews/reviews of books I think its time to add to my Goodreads account before I forget !

Also, one of my readers, ABR, recommended the New York Review of Books. The New York Review of books, according to its web site, is "the premier literary-intellectual magazine in the English language." The site discusses current books and issues in depth.

While Gawker seems to have something for everybody, the The New York Book Review is for more of the niche reader. It's a great site and interesting to read, but the content maybe not be for everyone.

Anyways, check them and see for yourself. In the meantime, don't forget to tell me what genres interest you !

Gawker -http://gawker.com/5636022/what-to-read-this-fall

The New York Review of Books-http://www.nybooks.com/