Quiz: Which Literary Character Are You?

Are you the:

My favorite part of magazines like Cosmo are those silly little quizzes that test What Kind of Girlfriend Are You? and things like that. So I decided it would be fun to make up a bookish one for ya'll. I give mad props to the person who's job it is to create quizzes like these. It's actually not easy!

Also, this is just for funsies so enjoy!

1. You find an old beat up treasure map in your basement under a stack of dusty books. You...

a. smile. You're the one who hid it there in the first place.

b. put it in your pocket and decide to show it to your best friend later.

c. figure out where it begins and come up with a plan to start a search.

d. leave it where it is and keep looking for your weights so you can work on your six pack.

2. It's down pouring outside on a spring day you…

a. laugh at your nemesis who just fell in a puddle and insult them in front of the whole school.

b. take out the umbrella you were carrying just incase and share it with your best friend.

c. take cover in the nearest café where you meet a cute guy.

d. conveniently bump into your crush and start making out in the rain.

3. It's your birthday you celebrate by...

a. opening all the presents your minions…I mean friends…bought you.

b. going out to dinner with your family and best friend.

c. enjoying the surprise party that your best friend threw for you and make out with your crush who brings you the ultimate present.

d. dancing at a club/party with a cute new guy/girl that is fun to flirt with. Happy Birthday to you! ;)

4. A criminal is holding someone you care about hostage. You…

a. bargain with the criminal. You've got lots of tricks up your sleeve.

b. do nothing…you're the one being held hostage.

c. volunteer as tribute.

d. form a plan to save said love person and then declare your love to them that has been building up for months.

5. The popular girl in school just insulted you. You…

a. that wouldn't happen because you're the most popular girl in the whole school.

b. start to tear up and turn away so they don't see you cry as your best friend punches that biz notch in the face.

c. say something snarky back that makes her blush and leave you alone.

d. tell her you're sorry you dumped her, but you're interested in someone else now and she has to get over it.

Now for the fun part...

12:00 AM
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Dewey's 24 hr Readathon Goals and Updates

readathon

The last time I stayed up 24 hrs was probably Relay For Life a few years ago. And by hr 24 I was not a fun person to be around. So I haven't decided if I want to do the full readathon. But what matters is that I'm taking part in the Dewey Readathon at all! I knew I'd need lots of caffeine and snacks to keep me awake so I made a video to show everyone what I plan to read and eat today! __________________________________________________ Updates: 2pm: halfway through Asylum by Madeleine Roux and it's pretty good so far. It's Pretty Little Liars meets Shutter Island. That's the only way I can describe it.
7pm: Finished Asylum! It was really fast paced and confusing but so good! I'm gonna start Goodbye Rebel Blue now.
Mini Challenges: 1) What fine part of the world are you reading from today? NJ (USA)
2) Which book in your stack are you most looking forward to? Girl of Fire and Thorns!
3) Which snack are you most looking forward to? Muddy Buddy Mix!
4) Tell us a little something about yourself! This is the first year I'll be participating in NaNoWriMo!
5) If you participated in the last read-a-thon, what’s one thing you’ll do different today? If this is your first read-a-thon, what are you most looking forward to? It's my first Dewey's Readathon. I'm most excited to talk with other bloggers. I love events like these because they bring us all together. And of course the snack...who doesn't love readathon snacks?
Favorite Book Trailer: I haven't read this one yet, but I really want to after seeing this:

Out of all the books I've read so far in 2013

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Armchair BEA 2013 Introduction

Please tell us a little bit about yourself: Who are you? How long have you been blogging? Why did you get into blogging?

Hey fellow book nerds! Nice to meet you. My name is Melissa. I'm a 23 year old blogger and I may or may not have an addiction to books. When I'm not reading you can most likely find me baking some new recipe I found on Pinterest or dancing. Sometimes I multitask and do both at the same time...which then leads to my other favorite thing...cleaning!

I started blogging after I graduated college. I had all this free time to read finally, but no one to discuss books with. My dad randomly suggested I try blogging one day and use my reading buddy, Harley Bear, as a mascot. Now I've been actively blogging for a little over a year and it has been an amazing journey.

Where in the world are you blogging from? Tell a random fact or something special about your current location. Feel free to share pictures.

I'm from NJ. Which is why it's killing me that I can't make it to BEA this year since it's only a short ride away. But I plan on going to ALA and BEA next year. Anyone else live in the area? I haven't met any bloggers yet in real life. I have been to Books of Wonder once for a signing though so if you go there let me know because I plan on going back for future events.

Have you previously participated in Armchair BEA? What brought you back for another year? If you have not previously participated, what drew you to the event?

Last year I participated, but didn't take full advantage of it. I'm excited to join in the twitter parties and Instagram thing. I decided to come back this year because I want to meet more bloggers! I met a few last week during Bout of Books and now we talk daily so I think events like these are awesome for connecting with more readers.

Which is your favorite post that you have written that you want everyone to read?

Flow charts and quizzes are my favorite. Whenever I'm reading a magazine I always go for the fun pages first. So I started making them for my blog randomly. Here's a chart to help you decide What Should You Read Next and a quiz to see Which Literary Character Are You?

If you could eat dinner with any author or character, who would it be and why?

I would go on a date...yes a date...with Daemon Black from the Lux Series. If you've read it you know exactly what I'm talking about. If you haven't read it you really need to go do so right now! He's hilariously witty, easy on the eyes, and he loves cookies. What more could you want?

Yum!

Now I want to hear about you! Do we have anything in common?
Leave a link to your intro post and I'll be sure to stop by.

I'll also be on twitter a lot this week @HarleyBearBooks and
if you're doing the instagram thing you can find my photos here.

12:00 AM
61 Comments

Harry Potter Read Along April 1-Nov 25th

Harry Potter

Week 1 Answers
Week 2 Answers
Week 3 Answers
Week 4 Answers
Week 6 Answers
Week 7 Answers

Week 1 Answers

1. At the beginning of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone Dumbledore makes the decision to leave Harry in the care of his aunt and uncle. We see the results of that decision when Ron and Harry have a run in with Draco on the Hogwart’s Express. Do you agree with Dumbledore’s decision or do you feel Harry should have been brought up among his own people?

I think he was better off growing up at his Uncle's. Yes, he was bullied and unloved, but he was humble and kind. Two things he would not have been if he grew up in a world where he was famous. He probably wouldn't have made friends with Ron and Hermione and then his whole life would be different.

2. Hagrid comes to rescue Harry from the Dursley’s in a shack on a rock. If you were Harry would you have left with Hagrid?

I was thinking about this. The first time I read this back when I was ten, I didn't see anything wrong with leaving with Hagrid. Hell, if he had shown up at my house and offered me a ride to Hogwarts I would have accepted. But now at 23 I was like wait...he just leaves with a strange giant? I guess anything is more appealing than living with the Dursleys.

3. Harry has a lot of info to digest all at once. He finds out he’s a wizard, there’s a whole magical community, his parents were in fact murdered, and the same wizard you killed his parents attempted to kill him as well. How would you have reacted to all of this?

I don't think I would have taken it as well as he did. I probably would have cried a lot finding out that my parents were murdered. And I probably would have been a lot more worried that this scary wizard would find me.

4. Hogwarts students are allowed an owl, a cat, or a toad. What animal would you choose and why?

I hate cats because they hate me. Toads are slimy. I'd have a pretty owl. Plus they can deliver mail!

5. For the first time in his life, Harry has money and the chance to spend it however he wants. What would you have purchased at Diagon Alley?

I'd buy a wand probably. When you think of witch or wizard you think magic wand!

Week 2 Answers

1. When first years reach Hogwarts they are separated into school houses; Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin. Which house would you be in?

I wish I'd be in Gryffindor because I love all the characters in that house. And while I do have bravery when something bad is happening, I also have self preservation and avoid dangerous situations all together. In reality, I'd probably be a Ravenclaw because I like to learn and read and be around people who enjoy that too.

2. Were you surprised that bumbling, sweet Neville Longbottom was sorted into Gryffindor and not Hufflepuff?

Well, I already knew he would be, but I think the first time I read this I was confused how he got in there. But then again I was confused why Hermione wasn't in Ravenclaw too.

3. Harry receives the invisibility cloak from a mysterious source on Christmas day. What would you do if you had an invisibility cloak?

I'd probably sneak into the other common rooms to see what they're like or explore the castle in general. It would be nice to have one of those when you just feel like being left alone. Cozy up with a nice book under the cloak so no one will bother you for a few hours.

4. The Sorcerer’s Stone can keep you immortal. Would you chose immortality? Why or why not?

I honestly don't know. The 80-100 years that we all expect to live is already a long time. Not sure I could handle immortality if my loved ones would die and I'd be left to live this crazy world alone. But it's interesting for Harry because he is pretty much a lone still. Yes, he's made friends, but they're bonds are still really new. I wonder if he had been offered the stone in the beginning of the book if he'd take it versus after he met Ron and Hermione.

5. Snape is playing a prevalent role as the baddie teacher. Who was your worse teacher and why?

My Algebra 2 math teacher in High School. I suck at math. Like so bad that I can hardly do simple math in my head. I was getting a C or D in this class (which it was my first C ever) and my teacher pulled me aside one day and was like "You should just give up and drop the class". He didn't offer extra help or anything. I basically was like "F U" (but in nicer terms) because when someone tells me I can't do something then I find every way possible to do it. I went in for extra help and somehow raised my grade to a B, but to this day I still can't believe that old man told me to just give up. He was dead serious too. He fought me when I told him I didn't want to quit the class. He was also about 70 years old and droned on during class making it that much harder to pay attention or want to learn. Anyways, he was the worst teacher I ever had.

Week 3 Answers
1. We find out that Professor Snape is going to referee the next Quidditch match. Thoughts?
I couldn't remember what happened because this isn't in the movie so I was kind of nervous for Harry. I wish I could forget everything that I know from future books lol.

2. Harry, Hermione, Malfoy, and Neville are serving out their detentions in the Forbidden Forest. they have a run in with the centaurs. Were Rowling’s centaurs what you expected?
No, I had never read about centaurs before so I remember being confused as a kid. But then I read The Chronicals of Narnia and I was like ooohh they're a real thing. I thought JK had made them up.

3. Quirrell? Huh. Didn’t see that one coming. What are your thoughts on this?
Always gotta watch out for the quiet ones! I always wondered why he wore a turban, but it all makes sense at the end. He doesn't really have a big role in the book. You'd think he'd be in it more, but I guess she didn't want people to suspect anything.

4. I was all about hating on Snape. How do you feel now that he’s been revealed as the not bad guy?
Snape is such a complex character and JK did an awesome job creating a likeable villain. I hated him too at first and was surprised to find out he didn't curse the broomstick.

5. What are your overall thoughts of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone?
I forgot how much I loved this book. I think a lot happened in such a small book. This is probably one of the few books in third person that I love. But I think JK did a great job of using third person to let the reader explore and connect with other characters. Such a great story!

Week 4 Answers
1. It appears that the Dursleys have hit an all time low after the nightmare dinner. What do you think of Dobby and his actions?
Dobby was kind of annoying. I would have been so mad if I was Harry that he was making all that noise and then got Harry in trouble.

2. We finally get to spend a little bit more time with the Weasleys. Do you have a family like the Weasleys? If not, do you want a family like the Weasleys or are you more of an independent soul?
I love the Weasleys! I only have one older sister and brother, but wonder what it would have been like to have a bigger family growing up. I love that Mrs. Weasley is a really strong woman and Mr. Weasley is really caring.

3. Harry accidentally ends up in Knockturn Alley instead of Diagon Alley. Were there any items described in Borgin and Burkes that peeked your interest?
I loved the foreshadowing for the series in this part. Some of the things that Harry mentioned in the shop come up later. I thought the hand was an interesting thing. Only the person holding it can see light or something. That could come in handy! Pun Intended.

4. If you were Harry or Ron and could not get through the barrier would you have taken the car or waited for Mr. and Mrs. Weasley (as was ever so politely suggested later)?
I would have waited. I would have been scared the car would run out of gas. Also, what if Ron's parents came back and the car was gone. They'd think either it was stolen.

5. What do you think of Gilderoy Lockhart? What Muggle celebrity would you compare him to?
Gilderoy is annoying. I love this question. I think he'd be Scott from Keeping up with the Kardashians. Courtney's baby daddy. They have the exact personality and similar hair!

Week 6 Answers
1. Harry finds the secret of Tom Riddle’s diary and discovers that Hagrid had a secret pet (read monster). Did you believe Tom? Did you think Hagrid could have brought something that dangerous into Hogwarts?
Since I already knew the ending I wasn't surprised, but I never suspected Hagrid of being a bad guy. He's just a big teddy bear.

2. Hermione has been petrified. Did you ever lose faith in Ron and Harry’s ability to save her?
I love that JK did this to Hermione because she's the brains of the operation and it made Harry and Ron have to work at it to solve the mystery without her. It also showed that she taught them a thing or two. And yet, she still helped them get the last piece of the puzzle even though she was out of commission. I knew they'd save her because they're awesome.

3. We see that Lord Voldemort is starting to get more aggressive with his attempts to return to power in the second installment of the Harry Potter series. How surprised were you that his accomplice this time was none other than Ginny Weasley? (Granted it was an unwitting accomplice.)
I remember being so surprised the first time I read it when I was like 12. But now I so all the foreshowding! It's so clever. You'd never suspect little quiet Ginny Weasley to be attacking people...her friends.

4. Dobby is granted his freedom at long last. What did you think of Dobby when it was all said and done?
I'm surprised Harry was so gung-ho to set Dobby free after he almost killed him like ten times, but Harry is such a good person. I was glad Dobby was free because even though he was annoying as hell he didn't deserve the viciousness of Malfoy. I think in a way Harry can relate to Dobby because they are both treated terribly at home. In a way Harry is like the Dursley's house elf.

5. What are your overall thoughts of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets?
Well aside from Lockhart and Dobby being annoying I think I like this book better than the first. I just love that there was more of a mystery to this one and you have to put the pieces together along with the characters. And the character development is phenomenal already and it's only book two. Plus, now knowing how the series ends I'm enjoying seeing everything come together. JK must have planned out all the books in advance because each book really builds on each other and sets up the next book. Brilliant!

Week 7 Answers
1. Aunt Marge insists that there's something wrong with Harry's genes so there is no helping him. Do you believe in Nature or Nurture?
I think nurture has a lot to do with how people turn out. But I do think genetics plays a role in it as well. Like twins that are seperated at birth, but still have similar mannerisms and demeanors. I also would like to say I hate Aunt Marge!

2. Do you think that Arthur Weasley was right in his attempt to warn Harry about Sirius Black?
I have always been a firm believer that you shouldn't hold back important information from kids. I remember when my grandma was sick and I was about 10 I asked my older sister straight up "Is grandma dying?" and she explained what was going on when all the adults would lie to my face. I was more prepared for her death and it wasn't as hard to deal with. So when I have kids I'm going to make sure I don't hide things from them just because they are scary. Plus Harry is 13 at this point. He can handle it.

3. We get our first glimpse of the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher R.J. Lupin. What are your thoughts so far?
I like Lupin. He comes off kind of mysterious, but the fact that he knew about the chocolate shows he actually knows what he's doing. Also, I'm pretty sure he was pretending to sleep on the train.

4. In their first Defenst Against the Dark Arts class the third years must take on a boggart. If you were faced with a boggart what would it turn into?
I'd be like Ron and see a spider probably. I hate them!! I'm totally one of those girls that screams and runs away when I see one.

5. Hagrid's first class went horribly wrong. Would you prefer to study some of the more exotic creatures (like hippogriffs) or stick to something safe like flobberworms?
Hippogriffs are pretty cool. I think I'd want to ride one, but only if it promised not to go too high lol.

9:31 PM
25 Comments

ARC Review: Pushing the Limits by Katie McGarry

5 Stars

Title: Pushing the Limits

Author: Katie McGarry

Publisher: Harlequin Teen

Publication date: July 31, 2012

How I got the copy: Netgalley (Thank you!) in exchange for an honest review

No one knows what happened the night Echo Emerson went from popular girl with jock boyfriend to gossiped-about outsider with "freaky" scars on her arms. Even Echo can't remember the whole truth of that horrible night. All she knows is that she wants everything to go back to normal. But when Noah Hutchins, the smoking-hot, girl-using loner in the black leather jacket, explodes into her life with his tough attitude and surprising understanding, Echo's world shifts in ways she could never have imagined. They should have nothing in common. And with the secrets they both keep, being together is pretty much impossible.Yet the crazy attraction between them refuses to go away. And Echo has to ask herself just how far they can push the limits and what she'll risk for the one guy who might teach her how to love again.

- Characters that feel so real

- Both Noah and Echo's Point of View

- Mystery, relationships, trust, and more

It seems like every YA Contemp these days is about a girl who has forgotten or blocked her past memories (One Moment, Where it Began, etc.) And I was beginning to get very bored of it so of course I was skeptical going into this one. Let me tell you, that wariness was lost after about two chapters. I couldn't stop reading. Echo not remembering a traumatic event in her past really added mystery to the story. Unlike One Moment where we already kind of know what happened, in this story we go on the journey of figuring it out with Echo.

She was such a real character that I found myself so emotional along with her. Although, I thought her name was weird a first, it surprisingly fit her as I got to know more about her. She's really unique, yet so normal. She wants to appease her dad, she hates her "stepmom", she misses her brother, and she is a social outcast because of the scars on her arm (which, in my opinion, she brought that social outcast status upon herself). I loved watching her grow as a character and really discover who she was.

Noah...just thinking about this character makes me smile. He's like the epitome of what every girl wants in a guy. He's strong and kind of rebellious, yet he's vulnerable and loves his family. Oh and he has tattoos. He also really grows as a character and I think it was great how together he and Echo helped each other. I also loved reading in his POV every few chapters. Although, the eARC I had didn't tell you when the point of view was switching, so it was kind of confusing at times. I'm sure the finished copy will tell you though.

The guidance counselor was a character that also stuck with me. As someone who has mentored and taught children for the past six years, it was nice to finally see a teacher/counselor portrayed as many really are, caring, understanding, and full of good intentions. I feel like most books make teachers out to be cruel, but most aren't!

The only thing I didn't really get is how Echo would just get floods of memory back at one time. She'd just be standing there and then pow she'd remember something, fall to the floor, and practically seize. Okay, maybe that's an exaggeration, but still, I wondered if that's how recovering memory really is. Other than that I thought this book was flawless and recommend it to everyone! If you like Simone Elekes books (like Leaving Paradise) you should definitely try this one!

If you are planning on reading this and want someone to discuss it with there is a Read Along going on that starts tomorrow! I'll probably participate even though I've already read it. Click the picture above.

4:59 PM
3 Comments

The Carrie Diaries Read Along Update #2

Contemporary

It's that time again...time to talk about chapters 6-10 of The Carrie Diaries by Candace Bushnell! And don't forget to scroll down and enter the GIVEAWAY! If you missed it yesterday head over to Queen Ella Bee Reads and see what we thought of the first five chapters!

Queen Ella Bee: Confession time: I kind of read ahead.
Harley Bear: I should have then. I really wanted to.

QEB: I couldn't STOP myself.

HB: It's getting really good!

QEB: Right? PS: I'm totally beginning to see why they cut Lali from the show...She's awful.

HB: ya she really is lol I'm starting to really love Sebastian's character. He seems to really like her

QEB: So I see what you're saying but at the same time I'm like HEY CARRIE LOOK AT GEORGE. Because I totally agree with Carrie about being able to read a person based on their room and Sebastian's just screams "transient" and that's no good.

HB: How old is George though?

QEB: That's a good question. I want to say he's probably only a year older than her

HB: Oh ok. I thought he was a lot older for some reason, but I guess her dad wouldn't be so calm about her dating him if he was

QEB: HOW MUCH did you love that thing with the feminist writer?

HB: haha I was NOT expecting that at all!

QEB: it was amazing

HB: I liked hearing that part because it explains why she is the way she is now

QEB: It felt so very Carrie Bradshaw to me. I feel like a lot of the times I forget she's CARRIE but then there are these little moments when you're like: There's my girl.

HB: Was Maggie annoying to you too? She's just soooo dramatic.

QEB: UGH

Maggie

Magswitch.

How I want to hurt you.

I definitely don't love Maggie in the show but I really dislike her in the book. But then again, I like Walt less in the book too. Which is sad. I think the only characters I feel pretty much the same about in both is Carrie and The Mouse. Although The Mouse feels a little Mary Sue? Like, she's straight edge and smart but also able to adapt to sexytimes really well?

HB: haha ya

QEB: PS: Peter. Ugh. I feel like George is the only worthy boy in the book. Like, Carrie can still be Carrie around him And now become some ind of simpering lovesick girl like she kind of does with Sebastian.

I think in theory it's nice to melt into a puddle because of your feels for a boy but in reality it's kind of a very, very bad thing.

HB: ya it's more lust than love when that happens I think. I died laughing with the clown face scene. And I loved that she wasn't really embarrassed about it. She's a good role model for YA readers

or any age readers for that matter. Like don't let a guy make you feel silly for being yourself

QEB: She really is fearless when she's not trying to impress someone else. Slash a boy. Like, she couldn't care less what Peter thinks

HB: I wouldn't either. He's annoying haha

QEB: well I'm not totally sure why she doesn't like him. He doesn't seem SO TERRIBLE. He just seems like a typical boy. think a lot of the times when I read YA I forget that these boys in these books are 16-18 years old. They're all mostly thoughtless.

So like, I don't know why I think 17 year old Peter should be help to a higher standard.

HB: I never really thought about it like that. I'm 23 too so I tend to judge characters in YA harshly. I wonder if other people our age feel the same

QEB: Well, I try to remember how big of a mess I was at 17 when reading YA and all. Not for funsies. Most of the people I interacted with weren't the greatest people I've ever met But I can't stay I was on my A game either.

HB: That's true. I should really try to channel my inner teen when I read YA. I was a mess, but at the same time I was like Carrie where I didn't let peer pressure ever persuade me. That's why I love Carrie so far

QEB:So true. I feel like she's worth paying attention to both as an adult and a teen. Which is fairly impressive

QEB sums up chapters 6-10 perfectly: "So yeah. Love Carrie, love George, the rest can go." The characters are definitely more captivating than the plot so far, yet it is so fast paced we're left wanting to read past the 5 chapters a day. As we delve deeper into Carrie's past we're learning what experiences shaped her character today. I think it's safe to say so far we're loving it!

Did you read-along with us? How are you feeling about the characters so far...Which are your favorites?

GIVEAWAY RULES:

~ To enter, please fill out the Rafflecopter form below. DO NOT enter using the comments.
~ You must be 18 years or older or have a guardian's permission to enter.
~ The winners will be chosen randomly. Once chosen, the winners will be emailed. They will then have 48 HOURSto respond, otherwise another winner will be chosen.
~ This give away is open to all countries the Book Depository ships to. Make sure you qualify before entering!
~ I reserve the right to disqualify anyone who tries to cheat the system. I WILL be checking the winning entries.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

12:00 AM
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{Review} Crash and Burn

3 Stars

Number of Pgs.: 532

Publication date: February 19, 2013

Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Genre: YA, Contemporary

How I got the copy: library

Rating: 2.5-3 stars

From Goodreads:

On April 21, 2008, Steven "Crash" Crashinsky saved more than a thousand people when he stopped his classmate David Burnett from taking their high school hostage armed with assault weapons and high-powered explosives. You likely already know what came after for Crash: the nationwide notoriety, the college recruitment, and, of course, the book deal. What you might not know is what came before: a story of two teens whose lives have been inextricably linked since grade school, who were destined, some say, to meet that day in the teachers' lounge of Meadows High. And what you definitely don't know are the words that Burn whispered to Crash right as the siege was ending, a secret that Crash has never revealed.

Until now.

Michael Hassan's shattering novel is a tale of first love and first hate, the story of two high school seniors and the morning that changed their lives forever. It's a portrait of the modern American teenage male, in all his brash, disillusioned, oversexed, schizophrenic, drunk, nihilistic, hopeful, ADHD-diagnosed glory. And it's a powerful meditation on how normal it is to be screwed up, and how screwed up it is to be normal.

Plot: 6/10

Characters: 7/10

Setting: 4/10

Pacing: 2/10

Style: 3/10

Cover: I love this cover. The matches look like the twin towers and go perfect with the title and story. I remember seeing it at #TeaTime and immediately adding it to my goodreads.

22+50=72 (3 Stars)

Imagine The Perks of Being a Wallflower and the movie Remember Me had a baby, but they were smoking crack during the pregnancy...the result is Crash and Burn. While it realistically captured High School and mental illness like Perks, I felt the drug use, sex, and f bombs were a little excessive. We get it Crash, you're a stud. I think the reason I didn't let myself DNF it was because it's told from his POV like a conversation and he is very conceited so it would make sense that he'd try to make himself seem cool every five seconds. But if any of that bothers you, you might want to skip this book.

Crash's verbally abusive relationship with his dad reminded me of the one in Remember Me. I wished I could reach through the pages and bitch slap his dad multiple times. I was kind of frustrated though because their relationship never truly develops. In fact, it felt like none of the characters really developed or changed. Felicia was my favorite character. I pictured Sophia Vergara every time! David reminded me of this kid I went to elementary school that threw desks, kicked the principal, and snapped highlighters. So I understood Crash's fear. Crash has ADHD and he just accepts that he has a hard time learning and struggles through life. I liked that the author showed how hard school can be fore kids with this and how dr.s and teachers just pump them with meds these days.

Each chapter rotates between the past (starting from elementary school: Crash meeting David Burnett) to the present (Crash trying to write the book about the siege). But I think because the author and his character have ADHD his story was very scattered. It was hard for me to focus and keep things straight. I felt like I had ADD to be honest. And it didn't help that the font is extremely small and there are 532 pages. At least there were constant surprises I wasn't expecting that keep me reading. Still, I went into the book thinking it would be all about the siege when really that was only like two chapters worth of the book at the very end. I felt like I was reading forever--like I was running towards a mirage in the desert...never getting any closer to the end.

12:22 AM
3 Comments

End of the Year Book Survey 2012

survey

Jamie from The Perpetual Page Turner is hosting her third annual end of the year survey. I've seen this around on a lot of people's blogs and it looks like fun.

Best In Books 2012

1. Best Book You Read In 2012? (You can break it down by genre if you want)

Adult fiction: When She Woke
Contemporary YA: Anna and the French Kiss
Dystopian YA: Shatter Me & Under the Never Sky
Sci-fi/supernatural/paranormal-ish (big lumping together): Obsidian
New Adult: Easy & Beautiful Disaster

2. Book You Were Excited About & Thought You Were Going To Love More But Didn’t?

The Maze Runner. I thought I was going to love this book. It had gotten such good reviews. It was actually kind of a depressing book and the slang the boys used got annoying. It was only interesting the last few chapters of the book. Very disappointing.

Anna Dressed In Blood. Again everyone raved about this, but I just didn't enjoy it. The whole romance creeped me out and it was kind of predictable.

3. Most surprising (in a good way!) book of 2012?

Sweet Evil. I got an ecopy of this book from the library for a long road trip just because I didn't know what else to get. I ended up loving it and reading it on the trip.

4. Book you recommended to people most in 2012?

Probably Obsidian again lol. I've been pushing that on everyone who will listen. Also, Divergent/Insurgent.

5. Best series you discovered in 2012?

I picked this one up from the library shelf because I thought the cover was interesting. I remember sitting down to read a bit to see if I wanted to take it out. A few hours later and I was addicted and glad I picked it up. The Unbecoming of Mara Deyer.

6. Favorite new authors you discovered in 2012?

Jennifer L. Armentrout. I will read anything by this lady. Her writing has humor, romance, and adventure all in one. And she never disappoints.

7. Best book that was out of your comfort zone or was a new genre for you?

I had never read any mermaid books before, but this one made me change my mind. Of Poseidon was hilarious and I can't wait for the next book to come out.

8. Most thrilling, unputdownable book in 2012?

Insurgent. I read it in one sitting it was that good!

9. Book You Read In 2012 That You Are Most Likely To Re-Read Next Year:

I want to reread Wanderlove this summer!

10. Favorite cover of a book you read in 2012?

I love her dress, the hidden skulls, the border, the off with their heads, the font. I couldn't wait for this one to come out basically because of the cover.

11. Most memorable character in 2012?

Since I don't want to answer Daemon for every question I'll say Echo and Noah from Pushing the Limits. Their story was beautiful and I loved watching them grow together and as individuals.

12. Most beautifully written book read in 2012?

Shatter Me. It was more like poetry writing than a novel. It flowed so smoothly and was so descriptive. And I loved the lines ~~crossed out~~.

13. Book that had the greatest impact on you in 2012?

I don't know why I waited to read this until 2012, but it made me think about everything in life and will definitely stay with me forever. Perks of Being A Wallflower was amazing.

14. Book you can’t believe you waited UNTIL 2012 to finally read?

See question 13.

15. Favorite Passage/Quote From A Book You Read In 2012?

“we accept the love we think we deserve.”
― Stephen Chbosky, The Perks of Being a Wallflower

“And in that moment, I swear we were infinite.”
― Stephen Chbosky, The Perks of Being a Wallflower

“The moon is a loyal companion.
It never leaves. It’s always there, watching, steadfast, knowing us in our light and dark moments, changing forever just as we do. Every day it’s a different version of itself. Sometimes weak and wan, sometimes strong and full of light. The moon understands what it means to be human.
Uncertain. Alone. Cratered by imperfections.”
― Tahereh Mafi, Shatter Me

“In your dreams, Kitten." He smirked. "Oh wait, I'm already starring in those, aren't I?"
I rolled my eyes.
"Nightmares, Daemon. Nightmares.”
― Jennifer L. Armentrout, Obsidian

16.Shortest & Longest Book You Read In 2012?

Longest — Daughter of Smoke and Bone went on FOREVER!!! It was beautifully written, but around page 300 I was ready to give up. I pushed through and finished it though. I hear it's going to be a movie soon.

Shortest — Hex Hall. It was so thin that I finished it in a day I think. It was funny and a quick read anyway.

17. Book That Had A Scene In It That Had You Reeling And Dying To Talk To Somebody About It? (a WTF moment, an epic revelation, a steamy kiss, etc. etc.) Be careful of spoilers!

I'm going to agree with Jamie...The ending to Pandemonium in the Delirium series!!! I literally considered throwing my ipad at the wall when I read that ending, but decided not to haha. I can't believe she left it like that.

18. Favorite Relationship From A Book You Read In 2012 (be it romantic, friendship, etc).

Travis and Abby's relationship in Beautiful Disaster was just so messed up and realistic. I had a friend in college whose relationship was kind of like that. It was just so dysfunctional and different than any relationship I ever read in a book.

Daemon and Katy were hilarious and their banter made me laugh out loud.

19. Favorite Book You Read in 2012 From An Author You Read Previously

I read the Iron King and didn't really like it, but I'm glad my goodreads group was reading The Immortal Rules because I ended up loving it!

20. Best Book You Read That You Read Based SOLELY On A Recommendation From Somebody Else:

Val over at Stuckinbooks.com suggested I read Vampire Academy because I liked Obsidian so much. I was so glad I listened to her I read all the books in the series!

Book Blogging/Reading Life in 2012 (optional)

1. New favorite book blog you discovered in 2012?

Well considering I started blogging in 2012 there are a lot lol here are a few.

2. Favorite review that you wrote in 2012?

This was the first time someone told me they were going to purchase a book based on my review and it made me so happy. And I shared a little piece of my life experiences in this review too. Anna and the French Kiss

3. Best discussion you had on your blog?

I haven't done a lot of discussions yet because for the first year I focused on reviews and memes, but here are a few.

Cover Changes: Good or Bad?
Hi, My Name's Melissa and I'm a Cover Snob...Help!
The Hunger Games: Age Appropriateness

4. Most thought-provoking review or discussion you read on somebody else’s blog?

I love this blogger and reading her post Lets Talk: How Reading Saved My Life really made me think. She talks about how reading has pulled her through hard times. I'm sure most of us can relate. If you don't follow Danielle yet you should!

5. Best event that you participated in (author signings, festivals, virtual events, memes, etc.)?

Before I started blogging I'd never really followed authors on twitter or anything (except Sarah Dessen...I used to stalk her blog in hopes she'd come to the tristate area for a signing lol). But now that I have twitter I was able to find out about an awesome opportunity in the city to meet some amazing authors. It was my first signing so I was the obnoxious girl that asked for pictures with all the authors haha.

Tahera Mafi is just as funny in person as she is on twitter. Veronica Rossi is sooooo nice. She wrote down my blog address and followed me on twitter that day. And she visited my blog when I tagged her on twitter in one of my posts. Lauren Oliver is just awesome and waited patiently as I had my cousin retake the picture twice since the first one was blurry. I can't wait to go to another signing.

6. Best moment of book blogging in 2012?

I think this would have to be

1. When I was emailed by the publishers of Dear Teen Me to be part of the blog tour. It was the first time I'd been contacted by someone other than an independent author to review something.

2. The twitter parties I attended including the #LoveJLA one we had the other night!

3. I also started using a new rating system this year that I love and I redesigned my blog layout/background and love it...for now lol.

4. When I was interviewed =)

7. Most Popular Post This Year On Your Blog (whether it be by comments or views)?

This post had 279 views. My guest post from Susan Dennard author of Something Strange and Deadly.

8. Post You Wished Got A Little More Love?

I wrote this post and then it got deleted. I was sooooo angry, but I rewrote it. Then it only got a few views lol. Book Boyfriends I'd Like To Meet Under the Mistletoe

9. Best bookish discover (book related sites, book stores, etc.)?

I found goodreads this year which transformed my life. I also like Netgalley and Bookblogs.ning. And of course Books Of Wonder where the signing was.

10. Did you complete any reading challenges or goals that you had set for yourself at the beginning of this year?

I set my 2012 goal for 100 books and actually read 105! I think it was because for awhile I was just working part time and I was sick for a few months. I'm not sure what goal I'll make for 2013. Maybe 50? What are you guys doing?

The Bout of Books readathon was awesome and I plan on doing the next one this January. Here's the first one I did BOB #1. You basically set a goal of books you want to read that you haven't gotten to yet and there's challanges, twitter parties, update posts, etc.

Looking Ahead…

1. One Book You Didn’t Get To In 2012 But Will Be Your Number 1 Priority in 2013?

The Evolution of Mara Deyer and Opal just came out and after waiting forever for them I didn't end up buying them right away, but those will be the first books I purchase in 2013!

2. Book You Are Most Anticipating For 2013?

The obvious: Sweet Peril, Origin, Unravel Me, etc. This one is a stand alone that I can't wait to read:

3. One Thing You Hope To Accomplish Or Do In Your Reading/Blogging In 2013?

I want to either create a meme or new event to host on my blog. I also want to do more discussion posts and possibly if I ever have enough money a giveaway. I really want to make more friends. I talk to lots of bloggers regularly on twitter, but only have a few that actually come to my blog regularly. Kimba the Caffinated Book Reviewer is one of them who always visits and I love her for that. She also runs Sunday post which is a lot of fun.

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