Summer 2016 Reading Challenge

One of my favorite times to read is during summer. It's the perfect way to relax and avoid the heat. So, I have compiled a list of topics to challenge myself to read about this summer. This heat has been brutal and it's only the second day of summer. Stay cool with me by reading fun, summer-inspired books! 

I've already picked out a few books that work with the topics I've listed below. Alice's Summer Road Trip by Cameron Glenn, 20 Best Summer Drink Recipes by Betty Crocker and A Fine Summer's Day (Inspector Ian Rutledge #17) by Charles Todd. 

Happy Reading! 

Breanna 

Eligible - A Modern Pride And Prejudice

What a refreshing and unique take on a Jane Austen classic! I instantly fell in love with Curtis Sittenfeld's ability to create a modern retelling of my favorite Austen story - Pride and Prejudice. 

Just the first few chapters alone instantly had me hooked and intrigued. Giving modern day meaning to an old way of life was so refreshing. Never in my wildest dreams did I ever picture Mr. Bingley a contestant of a reality dating show but Sittenfeld made it work perfectly. I loved that he found a new voice for the same witty, smart and beautiful characters I've read about over and over for most of my life. 

I am not one for change or remakes but the accuracy, new voice, and corporation of olden ways into a modern-age story left me so taken and blown away by the novel. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I fell in love with it and didn't want it to end. 

Sittenfeld did an amazing job of transitioning the old English wording to modern day while still managing to incorporate words like besmirching, hither and whence, to name a few. Our beloved Elizabeth, or Lizzy, still holds her quirky, stubborn wit and Mrs. Bennet still held the same hilarious temperament that we grew to love and hate in the original. It was so interesting to read the sisters dealing with modern day problems like job searches, feminism, reality television, sexual preferences, coffee shops and Crossfit etc. The romance and flirting carries over and you'll cheer for and scold them the same as you do in the original. Of course, the drama continues to the very end. This is an Austen influenced novel, afterall. 

I think this is a perfect way for those who don't like reading old English or about late 18th century ways of life to be introduced to Austen's brilliance and how she influenced and transcended literature and the writing profession. 

I'm excited that this is just the beginning of modern remakes of Austen's novels. The Austen Project is a collection of authors who, like Sittenfeld, rewrote a classic Austen novel to fit into today's standard of life. I haven't been this excited about a collection of books since Harry Potter. 

To learn more about the Austen Project you can look on their Facebook page or on Goodreads at this link: https://www.goodreads.com/series/113943-the-austen-project. 

Happy Reading! 

Breanna

All About Mothers and Daughters

In celebration of Mother's Day, I have compiled a list of books I feel perfectly depict the bond between a mother and her children. 

Some stories are sad, some intensely complicated and a few are inspiring and fun. Either way, I think we can all agree that there is nothing quite like a relationship between mom and daughter. We often claim we don't want to end up like our mothers but they can be the most inspiring, motivating and encouraging people in our lives. They teach us valuable life lessons that shape us into who we become as adults. I can proudly say as I've gotten older my mom is just as needed in my twenties as she was when I was 10. And, in my humble opinion, you never truly stop needing your mother. It's great to see that they can become not only a great encourager as an adult but a friend as well. The bond transforms over the years and while the story is different for everyone, a mother's love always remains an important part of our lives. I love stories about mothers who have changed into better people and moms, mothers who have righted wrongdoings and mothers who have always remained consistent and true. Every book I list below made me want to call my mom and say a big thank you to her for her sacrifice, hard work and willingness to do what had to be done to make my life a good one. These are great literary examples of the different types of mothers and their love, sacrifice and hard work. 

Little Women - Louisa May Alcott

The Joy Luck Club - Amy Tan 

When We Fall - Emily Liebert

The Nest - Cynthia D'Apriz Sweeney

Where'd You Go, Bernadette - Maria Semple

White Oleander - Janet Fitch 

Where We Belong Emily Giffin 

Each of these books are powerful, moving, emotional and sentimental. I didn't want to stop reading them. These are definitely books I'll go back to often. I cried, I laughed and I was inspired. These mothers have so much strength and courage. While I have no children of my own it is clear to see raising children is no easy feat. So a big thank you to all the hard working moms out there, who do all they can to raise strong children, who do it tirelessly and sometimes alone! You are all fearless and appreciated! 

Happy Reading (& Happy Mother's Day!), 

Breanna 

Favorite Book to Movie Adaptations

There are far too many books I love that have been adapted into amazing movies.

For avid readers, its a complex emotional moment when we hear a book we cherish is becoming a movie. We're filled with excitement, anticipation and also worry. Sometimes the words on the page just don't transfer to the big screen and the power and presence of the book can be lost. Over the years I've found my list of book to movie adaptions growing. I can't mention them all but I certainly will list a few. 

Girl, Interuppted 

Pride and Prejudice 

Lord of the Rings/The Hobbit

Harry Potter

 

The Help

In Her Shoes

Peter Pan 

Twilight Saga - Eclipse 

Alice's Adventures in Wonderland 

The Great Gatsby 

The Fault In Our Stars 

A few others I must also mention include Breakfast At Tiffany's, The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Romeo and Juliet (the Leonardo DiCaprio version), and A Walk To Remember. Like I said, my list would be way too long if I listed every adaptation I love. While some key features might be missing from these movies, I was still very impressed with how it brought to life the words I fell in love with. The characters were just as I had imagined them to be and that is always the most exciting part. What are some of your favorite adaptations? Share in the comment section below! 

Happy Reading (And, Watching!),

Breanna 

The Way I Used To Be by Amber Smith

Once in awhile you come across a book that tells a story that touches your soul. It changes your heart and leaves a lasting impression. The Way I Used To Be by Amber Smith is that kind of novel. 

I was hesitant to read this book because I relate to it on a very personal level and was nervous of the emotions and memories it would stir up. But, I'm so glad I read it because it is truly a beacon of hope and light on a dark situation that plagues so many people. An American is sexually assaulted every 107 seconds. It's a very real and serious issue that doesn't have enough support or talk. People are still afraid to come forward. Victims are not just victims they are survivors, victorious and symbols of hope and strength. Eden, the main character of The Way I Used To Be, is an example of what happens when you don't have the help or knowledge of how to get help when someone abuses or assults you in any way. Every person and every situation is different and unfortunately there is no one method to resolve it -- its not black and white. 

While it's uncomfortable, difficult and saddening to discuss, it needs to screamed from the rooftops-- voices need to be heard, and rapists need to be stopped and justice served. 

I'm grateful to Amber Smith, who writes in the novel that it is a fictional story and not her own personal experience, she sheds light on rape and what happens not just to a person's body when attacked, but to their minds and hearts as well as how it affects those around them like family and friends. 

I cried like a baby. I cried for Eden while she was raped and I cried for her as she evolved and changed because of it. The story is not for the faint of heart. But, what an amazing book! Even while facing difficulties getting through it, I would gladly read it again simply for the fact that it's important this book exists. Every day organizations and advocates of important issues like rape, depression and suicide break down barriers and erase stigmas. Every day those suffering get the help, support and encouragement they need to keep fighting. 

I guess the one message I'd want this book to really express is that we are not alone. You are not alone in your fight. Taking back your life, heart and body is possible even when it doesn't seem that way. Please don't give up. Don't let your attacker steal anymore from you because you are loved, important and there is no one else like you on this planet -- you are needed! While you may have lost who you used to be, you can become someone even better. Resources are out there. Counseling really turned my life around and helped me heal my heart and move forward. Sometimes you just need to know you're not alone. 

If you or anyone you know has been abused or sexually assaulted please seek help. For free, confidential support visit the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network at rainn.org or call their hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE 

The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones/Shadowhunters

Despite what critics and other reviewers have said over the years, I love The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones by Cassandra Clare. Today it was announced that the spin off Freeform series, Shadowhunters, has been renewed for season 2. I was excited to share my love, respect and excitement for the series and characters. 

I have to say that out of the three: book, movie and tv show, the movie starring Lily Collins is my favorite. The book is amazing. And, the tv show has been equally impressive. But, the movie was my first chance to see the world come to life. The places and people I had imagined in my head mirrored what was shown in the movie and I loved that it was exactly as I had pictured Clary, the Shadowhunters and the Downworld to be. 

Cassandra Clare has created such a fun, enticing, and interesting world full of demons, vampires and other creatures alternating realms and fighting the battles of good verses evil. 

If you've read my previous posts, you know I have a love and fascination with vampires. So, of course, I was drawn to this series. I love that they have unique personalities and aren't just blood-thirsty half dead beings running around. A lot of people argued that the storyline is bland, forgettable or boring but I think the opposite. It's a fresh, new and modern take on mythological characters that have been in stories for centuries. It is geared for young adults and I think captures the voice of today's generation while incorporating the beloved aspects of fantasy and the supernatural. 

I'm grateful for the tv series because it is keeping this great novel/series alive and I feel more people are getting to see how amazing it is. Of course the novel, movie and tv show all portray things a little differently but the important aspects remain true. 

If you haven't taken the time to read and watch each of these, I highly encourage you to ignore the reviews and take a chance on this story. I'm so grateful I took the time to check it out, it is one of my favorite storylines of all time. I'm excited that a new installment was just released in the Shadowhunter Chronicles entitled The Dark Artifices: Lady Midnight and look forward to picking up a copy. By the way, how cool is Cassandra Clare's website? I love it. 

www.cassandraclare.com

Happy reading (& watching)! 

Breanna 

(Photos were taken off of the official websites, I did not create these.) 

Thank you Meg Cabot and Ann Brashares

For today's generation there is the Divergent, Mortal Instruments, and Hunger Games series just to name a few. But, for me, while I was growing up it was all about The Princess Diaries and Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. 

I'll be forever grateful to the authors of these books for creating stories and characters that helped me, inspired me and made me feel like I wasn't alone. 

There are 10 amazing books to read written by Meg Cabot to follow Mia on her amazing journey. We read as she deals with the every day pressures of high school, crushes, long-lost relatives, friendships and then the ultimate discovery-- she's actually a princess. I love everything about Mia. Her quirkiness, sarcasm and the fact that while she tries to keep to herself she still marches to the beat of her own drum. I related to her in so many ways growing up. Reading these in high school helped me feel like I wasn't alone. I always imagined I was secretly a princess and lived vicariously through Mia in her adventures. I also appreciate the fact that there are so many books in the series. We get to watch her grow, evolve and take on the role of princess and queen. It's inspiring to read about a normal girl taking on an abnormal role and not only finding strength but discovering parts of herself she never knew of along the way. It shows the importance of taking risks and chances in life. I can read this series over and over. 

Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants by Ann Brashares is another adolescent favorite of mine. Nothing compares to a story about genuine long-lasting friendship and sisterhood between four girls. It is proof you don't need to have the same parents or be blood related to be sisters. I related to each girl: Lena, Tibby, Bridget and Carmen, in different ways. I loved reading about their adventures together. Their  camaraderie and belief in the magic of the pants during their summer adventures made me cherish my own friendships. I enjoyed watching them grow up and take on new challenges together and while apart. It wasn't just a story about pants. It's a series about how hard it is to discover yourself but how amazing it can feel when you do. Life is full of change and unexpected challenges. But, if you can face it holding the hand or hands of people you love and who love you in return then you are the wealthiest person there is. Friendship, sisterhood and love are worth working for, fighting for and preserving. Another series I'll always cherish for the comfort and guidance it gave while I was growing up. 

These are two prime examples of why I love books so much. Authors can create these characters that speak to your heart, open up your mind and encourage self-growth and realization. After awhile you forget you're reading at all and it feels as if you truly know these characters in real life. It feels amazing to know you aren't alone -- even if it is fictitious. I plan to share these stories with my children one day. If you haven't read these books or haven't for a long time I encourage you to! 

Happy Reading, 

Breanna