"Ghost Files" Review

"Ghost Files: The Collected Cases from Ghost Hunting and Seeking Spirits"
by Jason Hawes and Grant Wilson

Publisher: Gallery Books
Release Date: Sep 27, 2011 
Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:  

An omnibus edition of GHOST HUNTING and SEEKING SPIRITS, the real-life adventures of the paranormal investigators from Syfy's hit show Ghost Hunters.

My Review:

I really enjoyed this collection of tales from the "Ghost Hunters'" real experiences. This book contains both of their previous non-fiction titles in one volume, so there are a lot of spine-tingling ghost stories to be read!

The stories are told in the same tone of the show, you'll feel like it's a friend sitting down and telling you the stories. This really makes for an enjoyable read. The stories are all very short, only 3-7 pages each, so they're quick, entertaining reads too.

I really liked the stories from the late 90s and early 2000's because they happened before the tv show started, and were all new stories for me. I was also glad to finally read Jason and Grant's personal experiences with the supernatural that got them started with ghost hunting because they never talk about these experiences on the show.

Each of the stories are so intriguing they could each be expanded into a whole book. They range form the super scary-poltergeists, etc; to the strange-ghosts walking through floors; to the sweet-the 1950s teen curious about a new baby.



Bottom Line: A treat for any fan of ghost stories not just the Ghost Hunters tv show.

"Everything I Know About Love I Learned from Romance Novels" Review

"Everything I Know About Love, I Learned from Romance Novels"
by Sarah Wendell

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Release Date: Oct 1, 2011 
Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:  

Straight from the heart of influential romance blogger Sarah Wendell, this inventive gift book provides the best wisdom about love that the romance genre has to offer. Laced with signature witty commentary and peppered with thoughts from bestselling romance authors and avid readers, these pages will reveal what every romance reader already knows: while romances are certainly steamy, they have more to offer than just a sexy hero. In fact, they might have more to say about love than we give them credit for.

My Review:

Don't you love it when a book reinforces what you already believe? Over and over during this book, I found myself saying "That's what I always tell people!" and "See, I knew what I was talking about!" Many of you  may know Sarah Wendell from her blog Smart Bitches, Trashy Books, and her new book is a must read for romance novel addicts like me.

This book is all about all of the positive things about romance novels, including contemporaries, paranormals, and my romance of choice-historicals. There are two main points that really stand out in my head that are reasons why I love the genre, too. First, the books focus on women, women are important, and women are worth it. This is a huge reason why I read romances. The other main point I agree with is that romances are overall positive and hopeful. Even when there are tough issues in the book, the main message about hope and the books stay positive.

It's also interesting to me that the romances that I have really just not enjoyed have broken some of the 'rules' that are talked about in the book. One example that the author gave was that we don't want to read about how fat the main character thinks she is. Another deal breaker in romances is when the heroine is repeatedly beaten down in her self esteem-yes even by the 'hero'. She also makes the point that sexual fidelity is a main component of romances. If the hero cheats on the heroine, you can count me out for the rest of the story.

If you know someone who doesn't 'get' why we read romances, maybe they could page through this book and see all of the real and positive aspects about the genre. 


Bottom Line: Let's celebrate romance novels! And in doing so, we celebrate women, love and hope.

"Scandalous Women" Review

"Scandalous Women"
by Elizabeth Kerri Mahon

Publisher: Perigree Trade
Release Date: March 1, 2011

Source: sent by author and publisher

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

Throughout history women have caused wars, defied the rules, and brought men to their knees. The famous and the infamous, queens, divorcées, actresses, and outlaws have created a ruckus during their lifetimes-turning heads while making waves. Scandalous Women tells the stories of the risk takers who have flouted convention, beaten the odds, and determined the course of world events.
• When Cleopatra (69 BC-30 BC) wasn't bathing in asses' milk, the last pharaoh of the Ptolemaic dynasty ruled Egypt and forged an important political alliance with Rome against her enemies-until her dalliance with Marc Antony turned the empire against her.
• Emilie du Châtelet (1706-1748), a mathematician, physicist, author, and paramour of one of the greatest minds in France, Voltaire, shocked society with her unorthodox lifestyle and intellectual prowess-and became a leader in the study of theoretical physics in France at a time when the sciences were ruled by men.
• Long before Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on the bus, Ida B. Wells-Barnett (1862-1928) fought to end discrimination and the terrible crime of lynching and helped found the NAACP, but became known as a difficult woman for her refusal to compromise and was largely lost in the annals of history.
• Gertrude Bell (1868-1926) had a passion for archaeology and languages, and left her privileged world behind to become one of the foremost chroniclers of British imperialism in the Middle East, and one of the architects of the modern nation of Iraq.

My Review:

This book proves that truth is stranger than fiction! I loved reading about women's side of history, and not just the boxed-in views of women that history books teach us. These women are real, flaws and all.

There is a broad range of historical eras represented here. Some of the women are ones that I've gobbled up stories about for years, like Cleopatra. Some women I thought I knew, like  Joan of Arc, but she's turned out to be even more fascinating and inspiring than I thought. Others, I knew nothing about until reading his book, but I'm glad I know them now.

The book doesn't just focus on the positive side of scandalous women's stories either. Some stories are sad, and some are even cringe-worthy, and you'll be glad the scandals didn't happen to you. But these stories can be inspiring too,  just by knowing that we aren't alone in our struggles and that we too can overcome obstacles like these women did.

I liked the conversational style of writing, but some of the comparisons and slang may be outdated in a few years. There is so much information packed into this book, I may have enjoyed it more if I had just read small bits at a time. Each woman's story is only a few pages long, and complete in itself, so maybe I should have spread out reading them to be able to enjoy each story more.



Bottom Line: This book is an eye-opening look at 'herstory' and has a spot on my keeper shelf!

"Knitting Knee-Highs" Review

"Knitting Knee-Highs: Sock Styles from Classic to Contemporary"
by Barb Brown

Publisher: Krause
Release Date: Feb 24, 2011

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

In this book, author Barb Brown takes sock knitting to new heights by teaching you the ins and outs of knitting knee highs, a popular sock, but one that needs more explanation than most books and magazines give it. Here, in the first book on the topic, you will learn how to size these socks as you knit them, with 20 great patterns to pick from. Each of the 20 knee-high patterns comes with a variation that features that design in a different color and style of sock, perfect for knitters who want to mix up their sock drawer.

My Review:


Anyone who has stopped by over at my vintage blog knows that I like to knit, so I was excited to receive this book for review. "Knitting Knee-Highs" is an amazing book for intermediate to advanced knitters. There's a great diversity in the patterns, some are very bold color work patterns, while others are subtle and textured in neutral colors.


I absolutely love how the author encourages the reader to try new things. She doesn't just say, "Oh you could make these socks shorter," she gives you clear instructions on how to adapt any of her knee high patterns to socks or legwarmers. I'm impressed with the number of patterns in the book. There are 20 patterns but each one has at least one variation. With all of these options, you're bound to find something you love.


I'm fascinated by her suggestion to use positive and negative to flip flop the colors and make coordinating but not matching socks. I really can't wait to try this, the examples that she has shown are gorgeous. The patterns do look challenging, they probably aren't for a beginning knitter, but I think with patience, an intermediate knitter like me would be up for the challenge.


I loved the descriptions at the beginning of each pattern where the author tells about her inspiration for the pattern and techniques. The photos are clear and detailed and she shows you how using different color combinations can dramatically change the look.


Bottom Line: I can't wait to try out a pair of non-matching knee highs next fall, until then I may try one of her adorable anklets with a scalloped fold over cuff.

"Get Energy!" Review

"Get Energy"
by Denise Austin

Publisher: Center Street
Release Date: Jan 7, 2011

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:


With busy schedules, demanding careers, and little time, many of us battle just to stay awake. But energy is something that is in our control, even when time is short. Now 50 years young, fitness guru Denise Austin shows readers how to super-charge their lives, using her innovative lifestyle plan. She eats the right foods at the right time of day. She uses the power of stretching and breathing to feed her body with energy-enhancing oxygen. She uses mini-workouts to get energy even on her busiest days—and now you can too!
Denise shows how simple changes can add up to increased energy levels throughout the day. From the foods they consume to the way they sit in their chairs, readers won't believe how Denise's quick and easy plan will dramatically increase their energy levels. In as little as a week, results will be felt: radiant skin, more restful sleep, and a sharper mind...so follow Denise Austin and prepare for a fitness wake-up call!

My Review:

I thought the author made some really good points and she had a great positive attitude. The book was set up with an intro and then a quiz to determine what aspects of your life are energy-deprived. Then you can flip to specific chapters to learn how to get energy in the areas of life that you need it most.

The tips and tricks aren't  physically hard, but it's hard to make lifestyle changes. The workout moves and stretches aren't difficult either, they are things that people most levels of fitness can do. I like her ideas for mini stretches throughout the day, and yes, she shows you how to do them.  her meal and snack ideas are simple and do-able. No foods you've never heard of, three hour prep times, or complicated recipes. The great thing about the book is that everything is do-able. It's not a heard core diet or work out book.

Austin feels that if we're always running around,  working, and doing chores and we never take even a few minutes for ourselves, our energy is always going to be zapped. I love that she tells us to take time out for joy. Whether it's talking to friends, taking a walk, or ice cream with your kids, we all need to treat ourselves to recharge our energy.

Sometimes, the book becomes a little repetitive, almost like she had to fill a certain number of pages. But the basic ideas are great. Even if I only take a few this way from the book and try to implement them, I think I will see an improvement in my energy level.


Bottom Line: Great advice delivered with a positive attitude and kindness.

"The Fashion File" Review

"The Fashion File: Advice, Tips, and Inspiration from the Costume Designer of Mad Men"
by Janie Bryant

Publisher: Grand Central Life & Style
Release Date: Oct 25, 2010

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

As the costume designer for television's Mad Men, Emmy Award-winner Janie Bryant must match couture with the disparate body types and personalities of that show's distinctive female and male characters. In The Fashion File, she not only offers elegant peeks behind those dressing room doors; she describes how you can adapt your clothing choices to match your personal look and preferred style. In addition to its memorable Mad Men stories, this illustrated hardcover dispenses timely wardrobe and accessory details, tips, and advice.

My Review: 

This really is a beautiful book, perfect for fans of "Mad Men" and fashion in general. The illustrations in the book are absolutely gorgeous! I loved every single one!

I really liked the author's philosophy of embracing and loving yourself the way you are. She repeats the message throughout the book and never suggests making changes beyond style and fashion.

However, sometimes the fashion suggestions come off as slightly snobbish. I would have loved to have seen at least one footwear option other than heels!

Being tied into "Mad Men",  I did think this book would feature more vintage style than it actually did. There was only one chapter on vintage, which was my favorite. The author went through the eras from 1920's-on and chose her favorite items from each decade. I also loved the part of the book that took inspiration from classic film actresses and actors.

Bottom Line: This is a fun book, and gorgeous to look at! I would definitely recommend it to fashion lovers. They are bound to find inspiration here, without having to follow every one of her fashion mantras. I will probably take bits and pieces of her style advice, but I still love my jeans and flats!

Review and Giveaway! "John Lennon: Life is What Happens"

Thanks to FSB, I have a giveaway of a brand new copy of "John Lennon: Life is What Happens"!

"John Lennon: Life is What Happens"

by John Borack

Publisher: KP Books
Release Date: Sep 27, 2010

Source: sent by FSB

My Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Summary from Goodreads.com:

John Lennon - Life is What Happens celebrates the life and times of one of the most influential musicians in pop music history. A singer, songwriter, artist, social activist, husband and father, Lennon's genius inspired a generation &#151 and continues to do so today some 30 years after his death.
This fascinating read features rare images of Lennon juxtaposed by the myriad pop-culture memorabilia created from the height of Beatlemania into the late 1970s and the Plastic Ono Band. Chronicling his musical career, the book includes hundreds of classic photographs, dozens of quotes by and about Lennon, and personal reminiscence from fans and celebrities recalling Lennon's impact on their lives.

My Review:

This book is filled with beautiful photos and packed with information, quotes from John Lennon, as well as quotes about him from others. The photos include pictures of Lennon and detailed photos of memorabilia. My personal favorite parts of the book were the quotes from Lennon himself.

As a Beatles fan, but also someone who didn't live during the ear, I found out a lot of new information from this book. The body of the book was just the right balance of concise information, with enough details to satay both fast moving and in depth.

You could tell the book was written by a true fan and I loved the gushing moments praising Lennon and the Beatles' work. It was fun to know that the author was so passionate about Lennon's music.

If you are a Beatles collector, you definitely need this book. There are detailed photos of memorabilia with prices and details about the rarity and condition of the items. I had no idea that some really fun items were actually affordable. It's fun to think that if I wanted to, I could really get that vintage Beatles bobblehead for myself!

If I had to make one complaint about the book, it was that the photos didn't always match up to what you reading about in the body of the text. I would be reading about John's relationship with Yoko and on the opposite page was a photo of the Fab Four circa 1964 in matching black suits. It just didn't make for a smooth flow.

That aside, I loved the book and it was filled with info, quotes, and photos. There was just enough detail to make me feel informed and also want to read more about Lennon and the Beatles and do more research.

Bottom Line: Lennon's life philosophy shines in this book, and I absolutely loved the quotes featured here.

GIVEAWAY RULES:
FSB has generously provided a copy of this book for readers of my blog!

All you have to do is follow my blog publicly and leave a comment on this review with your email address!

I'm also opening this contest up to readers of my vintage blog, In the Hammock Vintage, because I know fans of vintage will love this one too! Just let me know you're a follower of In the Hammock Vintage in the comments! Followers of both blogs will get an extra entry!

Please follow publicly or I can't tell that you are following :) Also, if you aren't comfortable leaving your email here, go ahead and leave a comment and then send me an email with your email addy.
 
Extra Entries:

• +1 Tweet this contest (leave link in comment)
• +1 Post link in sidebar of your blog (leave link in comment)
• +1 for following both this blog and In the Hammock Vintage

Rules:

• US only
• Must be a follower to enter
• Extra entries are optional and can all be left in the same comment
• Leave a comment with your email address
• Books will be mailed out by FSB
• Ends Monday Jan 17

Thanks to everyone for entering! Good luck!

"Why? Because We Still Like You" Review

"Why? Because We Still Like You: An Oral History of the Mickey Mouse Club"
by Jennifer Armstrong

Publisher: Grand Central Publishing
Release Date: Oct 29, 2010

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

This book will tell the behind-the-scenes story of how The Mickey Mouse Club paved the way for all that came after, from its humble beginnings as a marketing ploy, through its short but mesmerizing run, to the numerous resurrections that made it one of television's first true cult hits--all through the recollections of those regular kids-turned-stars who made it a phenomenon. It will reveal, for the first time ever, the untold stories of Annette, Darlene, Cubby and Karen, Bobbie and the rest of the beloved cast. It will explore, through the reminiscences of former fans who grew up to be some of television's finest minds, what made the show so special. And it will examine why the formula the creators of the show invented is more relevant than ever, and whether we'll ever see yet another Club for a new generation.

My review:

Today's kids watch reruns of shows that I used to watch when I was kid, like "Full House" and "Fresh Prince of Bel-Air." When I was a kid, I watched what my parents loved when they were little: "The Mickey Mouse Club."

This book was one of the most fun books I've read for a long time. It didn't seem overly gossip-y and I loved that the author actually interviewed most of the "Mice" herself. There were a few who were unable to comment, including the most popular Mouse herself, Annette. Armstrong used credible sources, like Annette's autobiography for her information about the missing Mouseketeers.

It was so fun to see all of the behind the scenes information. One moment that stands out is some of the girls giggling over seeing Guy Williams, aka Zorro, in the commissary eating lunch. These day to day tidbits were something I had never heard about before in all of my Mickey Mouse Club fan moments. While I was reading, I really felt like I was at Soundstage 1 on the Disney backlot, like I was one of the Mice too.

The book is separated into chapters detailing auditions for the Mickey Mouse Club, the early days of the show, the phenomenon years, "Spin and Marty", and the aftermath.

I'd recommend this book for a true fan of the show. There's no mean-spirited gossip here that would ruin anyone's feelings towards the show, but there is some great insider information straight from the sources. I don't think this book would take away any of the "Magic" of the show, or ruin any idealized notions a huge fan would have. It's all done respectfully.

Bottom Line: True Mickey Mouse Club fans will not be disappointed in this book. Just like the original Mouseketeers, the book has a heart of gold with nothing but fond memories for the show. Now, please excuse me while I try to track down the out of print "Spin and Marty" dvd set on eBay!

"5 Ingredient Fix" by Claire Robinson

"5 Ingredient Fix: Easy, Elegant and Irresistible Recipes"
by Claire Robinson

Publisher: Grand Central Life & Style
Release Date: Oct 27, 2010

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

Food Network regular will instant recognize the concept behind this book: As the host of the channel's 5 Ingredient Fix, author Claire Robinson presents easy-to-make recipes with no more than five ingredients. Like the show, her debut cookbook demonstrates that this guideline is no harsh limitation. In fact, her recipes for dishes like Maple-Candied Bacon, Grilled Scallops with Saffron Aioli, and Brioche French Toast with Strawberries and Cream show that her penchant for fresh ingredients and distinctive flavors turn simple fare into delectable feasts. Especially appealing for kitchen newbies, but a fine resource for any home cook.

My review:

This is a beautiful cookbook with some really upscale recipes that have only five ingredients or less. Robinson's philosophy is that the more ingredients you add to a recipe, the farther away you get from the true flavor. Of course, the five ingredients that you do use need to be very high quality. While the recipes seem uncomplicated to prepare (yay!), they also seem like your grocery bill would be pretty high (boo!)

I loved that this book had sections on hors d'oeuvres, cocktails, and appetizers. I can really see how people would use this book to host elegant parties. It seems like a lot of books skip over these types of recipes, so I'm glad to see the options here.

I also thought the chapter on "All Day Eats" was unique and useful to me because I love snacks! The Fennel, Strawberry, and Arugula Salad" looks delicious, as do many of the other salads and snacks.

As for the main dishes, they weren't really anything I would try, for example-a whole chicken, but the side dishes looked really good. I'd love to try the "Smokey Roasted Peaches."

Bottom Line: This book is beautifully presented and would make a lovely gift. I think it would be especially great for a hostess who throws a lot of elegant parties.

"The Family Dinner" Review

"The Family Dinner"
by Laurie David, recipes by Kristin Uhrenholdt

Publisher: Grand Central Publishing
Release Date: Nov 3, 2010

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

The producer of An Inconvenient Truth, Laurie David's new mission is to help America's overwhelmed families sit down to a Family Dinner, and she provides all the reasons, recipes and fun tools to do so.

Laurie David speaks from her own experience confronting the challenges of raising two teenage girls. Today's parents have lots to deal with and technology is making their job harder than ever. Research has proven that everything we worry about as parents--from drugs to alcohol, promiscuity, to obesity, academic achievement and just good old nutrition--can all be improved by the simple act of eating and talking together around the table.

Laurie has written a practical, inspirational, fun (and, of course, green) guide to the most important hour in any parent's day. Chock-full chapters include: Over seventy-five kid approved fantastic recipes; tips on teaching green values; conversation starters; games to play to help even the shyest family member become engaged; ways to express gratitude; the family dinner after divorce (hint: keep eating together) and much more. Filled with moving memories and advice from the country's experts and teachers, this book will get everyone away from electronic screens and back to the dinner table.

My review:

This book is so much more than a cookbook! There are lots of tips to keep your family happy during your nightly family dinner. The book features fun, full color photos along with personal stories, games, recipes, and quotes from celebrities. Honestly, how can you not love a book that quotes "Leave it to Beaver"?

" 'Wally, there's nothing old-fashioned about politeness.'
-Ward Cleaver to his son at dinner" (p23)

There are lots of unexpected chapters in "The Family Dinner," including a section on staying green called "Your Green Table." The chapter features lots of environmentally friendly tips for parents and kids. Other interesting chapters are about giving thanks for our many blessings, and conversation starters. There's even a section called "Dinner After Divorce."

And or course, there are lots of family friendly recipes! I know my boyfriend would love the "Caesar Pita Pizza Pies" (p124), a yummy mix of a Caesar salad and pizza. And the very first recipe in the book looks like a show stopper-"Gary's T-Night Tacos" (p9)- and they're meat-less!

I've really taken a few of the tips to heart. I think a meal with no cell phones would be fantastic. It's hard to do but, I think it's worth it to give family undivided attention for that designated time.

Bottom Line: I am so impressed with this book and diversity it offers. This book is going to be on the shelf in my kitchen for along time. I think it would also make a wonderful and thoughtful gift for a special family.

"Tracy Anderson's 30-Day Method" Review

"Tracy Anderson's 30-Day Method"
by Tracy Anderson

Publisher: Grand Central Life & Style
Release Date: Sep 20, 2010

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Book Summary from goodreads.com:
Did you know muscles get bored, just like people do? And did you also know that there's a 9 out of 10 chance that you're working the wrong muscles when you exercise? With TRACY ANDERSON'S 30-DAY METHOD you don't have to worry--her unique workout will help you drop the weight and shrink your body in just 30 days.

Based on ten years of scientific research and experience getting not just herself, but A-list stars and everyday people, red carpet ready, Anderson has developed a unique 30-day diet and workout routine that reshapes the body and defies genetics to tone the muscles and drop the pounds. While most people incorrectly target their major muscle groups, like the bicep or hamstring, the focus should be on the smaller accessory muscles that can create a long, lean, balanced look--instead of bulked up look. Anderson's program is composed of a groundbreaking three-tiered approach, including a mat workout and cardio routine targeting the all-important accessory muscles, and an exclusive 30-day meal plan, complete with dozens of delicious recipes.

This comprehensive kick-start program is unlike any other workout on the market and it leaves no chance for anything but terrific, fast results!

My Review:

This review is of the book only, I'd love say that I tried the exercises and have already seen results after 30 days, but all I've done so far is read!

The premise of Anderson's plan is really interesting. Basically, she uses a three facet approach, strength training, cardio, and a healthy diet. I think the really unique part of the plan lies in the strength training. She targets the body's smaller, less noticed muscle groups to create a long, lean, strong body, not bulk.

The conditioning exercises are clearly pictured with detailed instructions. I feel really motivated to do the strength training, but I didn't get much out of the cardio or diet sections of the book.

I really liked the tone of Anderson's writing. She's very encouraging and motivational. It seems like she truly wants to help. Her focus is on what you can be, not on how lazy you are now like some exercise books can be. I like her focus on the positive.

The foreword by Gwyneth Paltrow is honest and encouraging. Since most of us know her, it feels good to hear someone familiar recommend Anderson's plan.

Bottom Line: I can't wait to try the exercises, even if I do cheat a bit and only do the strength training. I think this is a positive addition to a fitness lover's collection, even if you only take bits and pieces of her advice.

"Cleopatra Rules" Review

"Cleopatra Rules!"
by Vicky Alvear Shecter

Publisher: Boyds Mills Press
Release Date: Oct 1, 2010

Source: sent by author

My Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Book Summary from BoydsMillsPress.com:

Good. Evil. Dangerous. Glamorous. Will the real Cleopatra please stand up? Almost everything we know about the last queen of Egypt came from her enemies—the Romans. Now it’s time to meet the “real” Cleopatra, a ruler more complex, brilliant, and powerful than we ever knew. Cleopatra didn’t just rock the boat when she became queen at seventeen. She rocked the world with brilliant alliances that kept her in power and in control. When Mark Antony tried to put Egypt under his thumb, she negotiated for—and won—more territory than any Egyptian ruler had snagged in generations. Cleopatra didn’t just play by the rules. She made them up as she went along. She bowed to no one, including Octavian—the future Caesar Augustus—who never missed an opportunity to pump out anti-Cleopatra propaganda. The queen of Egypt has fascinated the world for thousands of years. It’s time to find out why. So, on your knees, commoner! The world’s most brilliant and outrageous queen—Cleopatra VII, the last Pharaoh of Egypt—is about to make her entrance. Includes maps, endnotes, timeline, glossary, sources, and index.

My Review:

This was such a beautiful book! I was really impressed. The layout and photos of this non-fiction book for young readers were very nicely put together. The cover is absolutely stunning and the image is on the book too, not just the dust jacket.

I have always admired Cleopatra and I knew some of the facts, but Shecter opened my eyes about some things. I knew Cleopatra was misunderstood by most and her image of the sexy seductress wasn't all there was to her. But I always thought it was Hollywood who chopped up her image. But no, it was her own enemies in her own time who did all of that.

Also, I knew Cleopatra was very well read (one of the reasons I love her) but I did not know that Marc Antony once stole a very valuable scroll (book) for her as a wedding present! Here's a guy who knows what his lady likes!

The author's voice was so easy to read and really brought the history alive for today's younger reader. Her writing flowed and she compared things that happened to Cleopatra with events that were more family to today's reader. For instance, all of the bad 'press' Cleopatra had in her day was similar to Perez cutting down a celeb on his blog today.

Bottom Line: I really enjoyed reading Cleopatra's story again and the author really presents her in a fair and accurate light. I love the way the book is written for today's young readers. And I was glad to learn new information.

"I Know I Am, But What Are You?" Review

"I Know I Am, But What Are You?"
by Samantha Bee

Source: sent by Gallery Books in exchange for honest review

My Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Summary from Goodreads:

Samantha Bee's hilarious essays on everything from her parents' views on religion and sex to her pre-Daily Show stint as a Japanese anime character.

My Review:

This book was a little bizarre to me. There were some funny little snippets of wisdom here and there, but overall, I felt a little uncomfortable while reading this one. A lot of the chapters focused on her sexual awakening/ or non-awakening.

Some anecdotes were so cute, like when she talked about how her daughter doesn't like animals but her son loves them:

"The other child is enthralled by the cat and wants to stuff it's entire body into his mouth, to be kept safe forever in a protective human boy suit." (p. 177)

I also enjoyed the chapter where she and a female roommate subtly vied for the attention of their very handsome-but very un-showered- male roommate. I got a kick out of the Three's Company vibe.

Bottom Line: Overall, there are some parts of the book that will cause a chuckle but the rest wasn't really my kind of humor and made for an uncomfortable read.