Thursday, September 12, 2013

Inside Out & Back Again

  "Inside Out & Back Again" is an incredibly moving, true story of a ten year old who lives in Saigon, but sadly, the Vietnam War nears closer to her home. In the first few pages we learn that Hà is a stubborn girl (A.K.A. a rebel) who knows what she is supposed to do, but does what she sees fit. We also see that see is the youngest, and is the only daughter. Her mother is clearly the head of the house. after a few poems, Hà and her family must flee, and they end up taking refuge in Alabama, where Hà's journey really begins.
  This book may be a much lower reading level than I am used to, but this story is just so beautiful. Thanhha Lai incorporates her memories, from when she was in this same situation, into this little girl's story. Hà is no doubt, my favorite character. The simplicity in her attitude makes me so happy, but at the same time, very sad because when she moves to Alabama, she has no idea how mean and vicious American children can be. Reading about Hà's struggle with the "Pink Boy" made me so sad, but like she says "The pity giver feels better, never the pity receiver."
  I would also like to say that I did not come across this book using my Penguin Group connection, but through the New York State curriculum. I was not supposed to finish this book so soon (I just got it yesterday), but i couldn't help it. I'm not sure who specifically to recommend this amazing book to. I do believe that this book is a MUST READ no matter how old you are.

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

"Matched" (not whole series)

  Matched is (of course) is set in a post- apocalyptic society. Unlike other books  I have read, it's not a Dystopian environment, but a Utopian one. Cassia, Xander, and Ky all live it the province of Oria. When Cassia and Xander are Matched, Cassia is required to view a slide show about Xander. At the end Ky's face pops up which is clearly a mistake on the Society's (Their Nation) part. The Society never makes mistakes. Everything is transferred to technologically advanced devices. Pens, pencils, and paper have been eliminated. Illnesses, deformities, and diseases like the flu, Autism, and Alzheimer's have been cured, so every body is also perfect. The point is, this seemingly little mistake is actually a huge mistake that begins Cassia's fight for her society's god given rights.
  While the facts are cool and all, this book Reached me on Cassia's determination and love for the people close to her, is overwhelming and it makes the book that much more amazing. Every other in "Matched", we constantly hear about how much Cassia loves and adores her family. I also like how Cassia is relieved when she is Matched to Xander. She doesn't have to move to another province, and she doesn't have to leave her family. I also relate to that whole being with your best fiend thing:). Though I do like almost all of the book, I  find it incredibly weird and a little ridiculous that they don't have a prominent leader. I also find it mind blowing that the citizens don't have books. I think I'd die without books. I'm not sure how other people will connect to this book but I find it moving, and I absolutely recommend this book to those people who are very particular about everything, and also to anyone who like the Dystopia/ Utopia setting. Thank you for reading. :):)

Apologies!

  I'm SO(!) sorry that  I did not post all summer. My aunt just got married and I was in her wedding! School also just started for me last Thursday. I just want to let you all know that I may not be totally on top of the whole blogging thing.
  If you haven't already you can follow me on Instagram (dreamland1219).If you want a preview of reviews to come, I often post pictures of the book I am currently reading. I also have a Wattpad account(Bookworm1219).
  I read a few books over the summer and have more reviews for you eager readers! I read three books by Sarah Dessen, and two other unforgettable books that I recommend to everyone and anyone, but I have not yet written reviews for any of them. Again, I apologize. But I do have reviews for books that I read at the end of last school year. If you want to know what books I have read this summer, below is a list. :)
  • "The Probability of Miracles" by Wendy Wunder (Yes that is her real name!)
  • "If I Stay" by Gayle Forman
  • "The Truth About Forever" by Sarah Dessen
  • "Just Listen" by Sarah Dessen
  • "Dreamland" by Sarah Dessen (Inspired my Instagram name!)
  • "The Disenchantments" by Nina LaCour
  I just want to thank Penguin/ Putam for the amazing books that they send to me!! Below is a list of some other amazing Penguin/ Putnam books.
  • "Vampire Academy" a saga by the amazing Richelle Mead
  • "Bloodlines"  a trilogy also by Richelle Mead
  • "Dreamland Social Club" by Tara Altebrando
  • "Babe in Boyland" by Jody Gehrman
  I also want to thank the 1,000 people who have viewed my blog!! It makes me so happy and giddy to open up my blog after two months and to see that my pageveiws went up that much!! I love you all and thank you!!!!