I didn't intend to write a book review today. Hell, The Husband just finished his first half marathon this past weekend and it was one of the most touching moments of my life when we finally were able to touch one another after the race that he pulled me to him, near weeping, and gave me this heart felt hug. All choked up, he was just thrilled that I'd pulled myself and the kids to see him at the 2-mile mark and then made our way through the crowds to the finish line. And WE cheered him on. And WE were there for him, for this big event.

It felt like it was just us standing there in Grant Park with the world swirling around us. I was so proud of him. Of us as a family unit. And my heart burst. But that's another post.... because, I'm compelled to tell you about this book.

Last week, I'd just finished a novel I was reading, wanted something quick, smooth, and easy reading. I was sick for God Sakes (yes, puking sick) and just wanted something easy to digest. Literally and figuratively. So, being sent THE 30-SECOND COMMUTE by Stephanie Dickison a while back (as in MONTHS AGO. In February. And I am just now getting to it).

Can I just say: I. LOVED. THIS. BOOK. It so took me by surprise. Not that I had any expectations except for the quick, smooth, easy thing (which it was). But I didn't expect to be inspired by it. I mean, really. I've read every 'How to Write a Book' Book out there. And even the ole WRITING DOWN THE BONES by Natalie Goldberg (it's an oldie but goodie). But this one, had me wanting to read a chapter, open my laptop and push through all those negative thoughts and keep working on my current work in progress. So some day soon, I could join Stephanie as a writer working for myself.

30-SECOND COMMUTE is not all about writing exercises, routines, finding work as a writer, or how you too can make a living as a freelance writer. Nope. It's a memoir. Just a book about being a writer. And it's ENTERTAINING. Seriously. Stephanie had me laughing out loud. Giggling in the midst of my sickness. And just all about shaking my head in agreement. But the best part about the book really is Stephanie's voice. Somewhere deep in the prose she says that she just wanted to write things that people read. And write them in the way she speaks. And girl... you do. Hell, if you didn't live in Canada and me here in Southeastern Wisconsin, I'd come find you for coffee.

She's fun. Hilarious. Honest. And it feels like she's sitting right next to you talking about life. The best parts about being a writer and how she handles work (she's a Type A like me, so it is heartening to know I am not the only one that will hunch over the keyboard for hours at a time), gets caught up in finding the next project, and well just about everything in between. I literally tore through the book in one night, then opened my laptop and started pounding out my own prose. I mean, the one thing Stephanie was clear about, is you have to write to WRITE. And for whatever reason--her voice, her experiences, her honesty, had me wanting to be just like her.

So, if you're a writer--non-fiction or fiction, pick this book up. It's an open door to the writers world. And it's gloriously honest and funny. It's totally for those days when I don't want to haul my large ass to the desk to write myself. I can pick it up, give any one chapter a quick read and remember why I want to write... thanks Stephanie! You, my girl, ROCK.

Labels: author, books, memoir, reading, reviews, writing, writing life

5:51 PM | Permalink | 1 comments

Today, I should have been working. Yup. Should have been a normal (busier than humanly possible) 9-to-5 work day full of conference calls, meetings, deadlines, and emails. But I called in sick. The Cold That Just Won't Go Away was still here, and I just needed another day to decompress (have been out of the office since Friday for wedding fun and travel). So instead I sat down with a book or two. And what found it's way into my hands today, but Alyse Myers' Who Do You Think You Are?

It's a lovely memoir about mothers and daughters, relationships, growing up and everything in between. And my in between, I mean all the complications of having a mother.

We all have them but sometimes--especially when we are say 15 and think we own the world--you just don't get along. In my case, the "not getting along" was because I was a teenager, naive and really, just was ready to go out on my own into the world. It's all normal. And hormonal and all that stuff. And even today, mom and I--don't always see eye-to-eye and that's what a so-called normal relationship is all about. But after having a daughter of my own, well I understand even more how hard it is to mother... and that is a whole new perspective (and let me tell you, there are more days than one I wonder if I am going to screw her up too. We women, so emotional on both sides--mother OR daughter).

And this is what this book is all about--Alyse growing up, dealing with death, dealing with siblings, dealing with her mother. But she had other variables in her life to overcome than I. Mine were just high school, boys, and life with a curfew. Her home live was not the best circumstances--not so much money, life with parents that loved each other but only knew how to fight, a bit of drugs, infidelity. But through it all, she loved both her parents dearly. Tenderly. And always did what she thought was best. Even in tough times.

The book is honest in ways that let you really see what it was like growing up for Alyse. And then how she is looking back now and understanding it all. You feel her hurt, pain, and all the in-between of what it was like growing up with her mom. And her dad. And her 2 younger sisters. How she wanted and strived for more. And then realized, well, that her mom was doing all she could. Flawed and all.

It's well written. Poetic. And a true testament to the love she felt for her mom. Bittersweet in ways that it brings Alyse and her own daughter together in ways she likely never imagined (but desired nonetheless). Great book for mothers day or just a read on a lazy weekend afternoon (or say an extra day off of work). As it gives one a sense of hope and love.

Labels: author, books, reading, reviews

5:10 PM | Permalink | 0 comments

All right ladies and gents, it's time for a challenge. A goodness challenge.

Andy Buchanan and Miriam Peskowitz have written a lovely new book--THE DOUBLE-DARING BOOK FOR GIRLS--which is a follow up to the first book (which I reviewed here). It's a wonderful book full of information, games, tricks, and loads of things about being a girl. A daring girl to be exact. You can learn a ton of card games, how to win at Scrabble, how to catch a fish, run away and join the circus... but well, buy the book to figure all that stuff out. I'm here for a throw down!

And all of us share a friend named Melissa. And she is throwing them a book shower. What's that you ask? Well who really knows--because can't it be anything we want? Sure can. So we decided to challenge our readers to one of the goodness items in the book. I picked the item on page 167--Worry Dolls.

Ahh, the land of worry. I never thought of myself as a worry wart. But maybe that was because all I ever really wanted was to be fancy foot and carefree. I'm an eldest child, NEVER GOING TO HAPPEN. And then I became a parent which forever takes away the carefree days of anything. Thus, why I picked this Worry Doll Challenge.

What is a worry doll? From my friends at Wikipedia they are (and of course all this info is in the book too):

Worry dolls (Spanish: Muñecas quitapenas, "Dolls [that] remove worries"), or trouble dolls, are very small and colorful dolls traditionally made in Guatemala. A person (usually a child) who cannot sleep due to worrying can express their worries to a doll and place it under their pillow before going to sleep.

According to folklore, the doll is thought to worry in the person's place, thereby permitting the person to sleep peacefully. The person will wake up without their worries, which have been taken away by the dolls during the night. Parents may remove the doll during the night, reinforcing the child's belief that the worry is gone...

Now, I know, I know it is all around children above, but I don't give a damn about that. Because reality is, I lose many hours of sleep due to worry and I know many other ADULTS that do too, so here's the details, my dear readers:

I challenge you to choose 6 of your favorite friends or family, and cut them a little slack--make them a Worry Doll so they can shed those worries good-bye. Normally with the folklore thing, you make them in groups of 6--but I've made it easy. Make 6, give 6. And you should be golden. I figure if you spread the worry-less karma around, maybe you (the giver) will also reap benefits.

My dolls are going out by the end of the month--so friends and family members--START watching for them! Now it's your turn--weigh in, tell me who you sent your worry dolls to and why, or beat my score and tell me how many dolls you made, who you sent to, why, and well join in the challenge.

p.s. I really want you to buy the book and all the cool stuff it tells you what to do (it is great if you have a son or daughter, I mean--hello--EVERYONE want to learn how to make a lava lamp right?), but I also want you to make Worry Dolls for friends and family and join the challenge. So, here's some online instructions on how to make them. You know, so you can join in. Let's see if we get the most participants!

Labels: author, books, reading, reviews

4:45 PM | Permalink | 0 comments

First let me say, I've had Trish Ryan's HE LOVES ME, HE LOVES ME NOT on my bedside to be read table forever (the hardcover version actually). It's been there for about a year. And I'm feeling pretty crummy about it. Sorry Trish! Especially since I had personally asked Trish to read and review the book. Sigh. Personal Failure Alert.

Anyway, let me get into the reasons why I wanted to review the book--and then why, now ready to write something about it, was having a bit of trouble. Don't let that statement trick you, the book is well written and entertaining. Trish, being that is a memoir, was honest and truthful and so sweet I just kept reading even though--the idea of being born again Christian was tripping me up--I kept reading. And reading until the very end. So let me start at the beginning.

I'm not very spiritual. In fact, church is only something I attend for weddings, funerals, baptisms, christenings, maybe a holiday here and there, but really for nothing else. Am I anti-religion? Not really. In fact, I believe in some sort of higher being. And honestly, that's been enough for me for years.

Long story of my childhood in short is: we didn't go to church much then either. My father went all the time as a child and even went to a Catholic school through is younger years. And from that, he decided, we wouldn't need to. And hey, Sunday mornings were never more fun for us! We didn't have to get up early and attend anything in dress up clothes! My Mom was okay with that too--but did spend some time teaching us the Bible basics. Basically the who's who of the important characters, brought us to holiday festivities at the local church, and let us tag along with Grandma and Grandpa when they attended every Saturday night. It was an easy existence, really. And one I never questioned. Even when all the other kids in the neighborhood went off to church and something called Sunday School (sounded brutal to me).

Fast forward a good 20-some years and here we are today. That sort of upbringing didn't haunt me, didn't allow me to make too many bad choices, and I am living a pretty normal life if I say so myself. I've thought about religion. I've had friends and dates and all that stuff with people that were highly spiritual to those that could have given a shit less.

What does all of this have to do with the book? Well, it's about becoming "one with Jesus." For Trish anyway. And as much as the book is about her, she sorta challenges us (the reader) that maybe it might be right for us. Which for me, really not so much. And as much as I loved the beginning of the book, found myself skimming later chapters that were going on and on about how praying with her boyfriend was just the most wonderful thing ever. Because for me, that just went over the top. For. Me.

I wanted to read the book since we shared an agent, she was a first time author, and I've seen her in some writing circles. Overall, it was a writer to writer thing--and having shared personal details of my life here on this blog (and in a possible book someday), I wanted to see how it was done. WITH a touchy subject for some.

So, in a nut shell, here's the skinny: beginning of the book was SO RELATABLE, so real and so fun I just kept reading. Cheering Trish on to find love and happiness, and crying with her when she shares the not-so-good relationships she had. It was an honest look and life, love, and her search for spirituality. She brought us along for the ride she had looking into fueng shui, alternative/new age healing, astrology... and well everything in between. I'd compare it to a cliff-note trip of my own--peaking into all those communities without having to try it for myself. And in fact, we do the same with her love life (the book does have another plot. The husband angle. She's looking for one, wants one desperately, etc). We glimpse in, take part, and really enjoy the ride while Trish remains open and honest--even about the dirt.

And even when she begins exploring Christianity, the writing and Trish's voice kept me captivated. She talked a lot about her doubts and uncertainty. All of which, being in her situation or wanting to "try something new" I would feel the same way. It was all relateable, fun, and easily readable.

But she keeps going down the path... and well, this is where my mind wandered. Everything was going so well. And weirdly well. And all the praying. And well, I kept reading because in the end I like a good love story, I had to be sure she found a man. BUT, I will caution you, it is riddled with Jesus and praying (so much praying I wonder how there is time for normal conversation) and just a world that maybe I am so far removed from I will never get. Trish never loses her voice, even tells us that she is uncertain herself... which helped. But in the end, it just went a bit too far--again--FOR ME. The writing was superb and I love that Trish went out on a limb and wrote the book. It's an insider look into her life, and into a part of religion I'm not so sure I will ever get.

Trish--thanks for the read. I know it is a year late. Sorry, and please forgive me. But girl, you keep writing. Love your voice and writing. I might not be ready to go to church any more today than I was before reading, but the book at least gave me a glimpse into your life, which is what a memoir is intended to do.

Labels: author, books, reading, reviews

3:07 PM | Permalink | 0 comments

Some get into reality TV. Me? I just love a good book with some dishing, dirt, and a life FAR, FAR from anything close to my reality. THE SPARE WIFE by Alex Witchel? Well, it's the farthest thing from my day-to-day life as possible, and it has some dirt. So it had me at hello. Or "Jacqueline Posner stood at the edge of her dining room and aimed a blow-dryer at the center of a pale peach rose." Mostly because roses in my house are few and far between. A peach one--even farther!

Anyway, the books about high society New York city. Women who have worked their way to that position via marriage, others who worked their asses off and then the ones who just wish they were there. All revolving around "The Spare Wife," Ponce Morris. She hangs with the boys and the girls in the marriage and everyone is happy. She's been around the block, seen it all, married for money, and then went to law school and divorced (there is a whole slew more to that back story that's equally interesting but read the book to get the details). The woman is a straight shooting hard ass. Well until you find out she's having an affair with one of the richest and notable in town.

But what makes it so dishy is that it's all secret until an underling at the one of the city's entertainment magazines catches her. Well, this is when it gets interesting (to me anyway). It's all about scandal and an expose and things that make us realize that even if you're rich, life ain't perfect. For Anyone.

So really dig into this witty, satirical book about life in the upper class in the Big Apple. For me, it gave me a glimpse into the other side of the life of the rich and famous in the city. As much as it is dishy and like living the life of a fly on the wall to a life I will never have--it's also a big slap in the face to the Desperate Housewives television. This has more meat and definitely a better statement on that type of life.

Dig in. Enjoy. And I promise to write something NON-book related in the next few days as I dive back into my working mom reality bright and early tomorrow morning.

* Yup, another Mothertalk sponsored post. Which means they sent me the book. I read, I like, I post. Simple as that.

Labels: author, books, MotherTalk, reading, reviews

7:56 PM | Permalink | 1 comments

So, I've been absent. Sue me. I went on a long weekend getaway with my husband and left the kids with Grandma so I could pretend to be 21-years-old again. I'm paying for it now, with some deep exhaustion. And having to go back to work sooner rather than later. But man... having those 2 nights without the kids? GLORIOUS. Haven't had that kind of kid-free time, in about 5 years. And I'm not kidding. We've only ever spent 2 other nights away from children, when my son was about 2. We were due. And a fun time were had. Which sorta leads to this book review (you'll have another one coming tomorrow too. Bear with me, I told you I was behind), MOJO MOM: Nurturing Your Self While Raising a Family by Amy Tiemann, PH.D.

Like the title suggests, it's about getting your groove back after kids. But not the sex groove so much (but that is included!), it's about finding yourself after you rip open your insides and give birth to this thing called a child. And you have no idea what the hell just happened, what you do with it, and then how you try to balance it all in day to day life while still remaining a woman--outside of the family and husband department.

I wish I had this book after my son was born. I was a bit of a mess. I was trying to work, be a mom, a wife, and well everything in between. We didn't live near family and I didn't have a babysitter. And hell--I was told growing up I could do it all. So why not do it now? I'd managed to find myself living outside of Chicago, with a new house, cars, and was managing a career to the point that I worked regularly out of my home in my pajamas. Who could ask for more? Well, I did. I wanted a baby. But what I didn't count on was the fact that--THAT BABY--would change everything.

Sure, sure. You hear it will change it all and that you will never the be the same. But trust me, until you have that baby in whatever means you have it... it doesn't make a lick of difference until you are looking at yourself in the mirror one morning and realize you have dark circles under your eyes permanently. And that worry you feel in your gut? Won't go away until the kid can take care of him/herself forever. Which means--that worry will never go away. But I am off on a tangent here....

MOJO MOM is just an honest look at motherhood. About the identity change every mom goes through. Some as quickly as a few hours (God bless them) and others where it takes years to figure out where you are and WHO you are now that you are a mother. I loved the book in that Amy is just plain honest. And gives a lot of personal examples about how motherhood collides with just about everything in your identity... your career, your marriage, your dreams. And although at first it seems like it kills all of that. It really doesn't. Just takes some time to shuffle it all around to make sense. Thus, the book.

It lays down the simple process a mom goes through. And then gives you ways that MIGHT work to help you through it all. Because, as with everything, we are all different. And it might take you 3 years to move through to true mojo mom, where me? Hell, I think I just made it through the night with two wee ones that were clinging to my side after a long weekend away. But, I have hope that my mojo will be back in full force. Give or take a year.

Anyway, check out the book. Amy is awfully honest, gives great insights, and overall, just gives us mom's what we need to know we aren't insane in this motherhood business. We just need a little help, pick me up, and an occasionally girlfriend time to regain what was our PRE-CHILD and then who knows, turn into so much more afterward. And she's got a cool website that helps too. Check it out.

* Yup, a Mothertalk sponsored post. Which means they sent me the book. I read, I like, I post. Simple as that.

Labels: author, books, MotherTalk, reading, reviews

11:56 PM | Permalink | 0 comments

It's been forever since I've posted a book review! Honestly, how dare I leave you hanging? Well, it is pretty indicative of the time I've had lately juggling work and yes, children. Some of which deals with the very issues discussed in today's book-- NAP TIMES--because I do work from home at least 2 times a week with an 18-month-old, who, um does in theory like naps, it's just a matter of WHERE she takes them. But, let me give you the low down first.

It's no secret I love Elizabeth Pantley (see my last review). I'm so into the whole Listen-to-your-kid Theory as well as the Each-kid-is-different Thing and the There-is-no-one-parenting-solution Thinking. Seriously. Who said one way is right? But I am even bigger into someone who just tells it like it is from experience. And (as I have said before), Elizabeth has 4 kids. She's gotta know something right? But hey, I'm likely preaching to the choir here. In short, it's a simple thing, Elizabeth is into non-crying solutions that MIGHT* help you get your child to take a nap without the kicking, screaming, whining, and more crying that you typically imagine when you tell your kid it's nap time. And yes, that does happen sometimes.

*We preface that with a Might because really, as Elizabeth says, each kid is an individual, there is no one solution that is perfect. Just do what you can. And she offers up at least a handful of solutions that might work for you...

Which brings me to my nap time issues (Come on! You knew they were coming!)... The Peanut. Love her. Even the whining, hanging on my leg. The constant need to TELL me when she is upset (even if it is a half hour later). Gotta love her ability to express herself, right? Anyway...

She's a better sleeper overall than her brother was. For him, I'd sit for hours rocking, patting, snuggling, singing (yes, Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star was his favorite. It will be etched in his brain for eternity), until FINALLY he would fall asleep. Only for me to twitch and he'd awake and we'd start all over again. And this "routine" was consistent for both naps and bedtime until he was about 2 years old. And then, I gave in and let him just sleep in our bed from the start (we'd tried having him start out nights in "his" bed until I went nuts from sleep deprivation around 4am and then brought him to ours)... to which he dropped to sleep in about 15 minutes with little night waking. Of course, he spent most nights in our room until he was 4-years-old, but hey, I got sleep, he got sleep, and we weaned him from night nursing with not one more night of screaming, "Want MA! WANT MA! Want MA!" But, I digress, this is about The Peanut.

She likes sleeping, goes down pretty easily and hardly ever cries. So, what's the problem? She wants to be held the entire time. ENTIRE. TIME. I've learned to accommodate this when I work from home. Have the right chair, my laptop in front of me, phone close by to hush the ringer, and well... it works for now. But, my God, she is almost 2! I want to be able to put her down and say, take a shower. ALONE.

In comes, The No-Cry Nap Solution. I'd love to tell you I have read the book from cover-to-cover and that it is working swimmingly. And that my daughter is in fact sleeping in bed right now. But the truth is, she's on my lap. Sleeping of course. And I am not that much closer than I was a week ago. But, at least now I have some plan in mind. And that is what this book is perfect for. It tells you the Whys (why naps are good for all ages, why sleep can keep you sane--literally, and why napping should be an important part of your child's development), and gets you started on some paths that might work for you. One of which is the sleep log. Again, something I did for my son... and am in the process of doing now for my daughter. Granted, I'll admit, I'm not diligent to a fault. I'm taking a more high level approach so I stay sane. But, this book gives you that flexibility. It has worksheets, short chapters (hey, we don't have time to READ do we?), and there are a number of options to choose from. Most of which--I'll likely try and mold into what works for me. Even if it sadly means holding my daughter til she is 3 for naps during the day (unless of course I can lie with her and nap myself!). Because, that is what works for me. And, from Elizabeth's point of view, I think she'd be okay with that too. As long as it is not stressing me out.

But hey, please check out the book. It really does offer a ton of solutions and information on napping. It's all pro-choice, pro-NON-crying, and pro-child. I mean, she offers solutions, but let's you know it is okay if it isn't going swimmingly (like in my situation). Kids are kids. Adults are adults. And she's here for you. And she is. Take a look at her web site. Isn't it Da Bomb? More info there as well.... printable sleep logs, cheat sheets, free articles, and you can even write her for advice on your specific situation. It's lovely. As is the book. Can't ask for a better form factor for parent-to-parent advice.

Labels: author, books, reading, reviews

9:01 AM | Permalink | 1 comments

I was born in 1975. Go ahead and count the years. I can't hide that I am getting older by the minute. But it was a time just past the hippies, and more geared toward baby boomers, convenience, and the thought that the world could be a better place.

As I grew up I remember things like Twinkies, Long and endless summer days, Little Debbie Snacks, Sun-In hair bleach stuff, Jelly shoes, Macaroni and Cheese, Madonna (Like a Virgin), Sunny D, Tab, Seventeen and Sassy Magazine, Shake 'n Bake Chicken, Hair Metal Bands, Koolaid, Miss Universe Pageants and a whole slew of Popsicles and bike rides.

It was fun, innocent and a whole lot of laughs. I had a good time. I ate what I want, when I wanted and life was good. Well as good as it can be when wearing leggings and teased hair were considered high fashion. But my point lies in the food. It was a time of processed goodness that I am not ashamed to admit I loved. LOVED. I still feel myself jonesing for a Twinkie every now and again. Only now, I can only stuff half the starch in my mouth at a time and toss the rest for another day.

But now there is this healthy eating movement. And it is a movement (just like introducing infant formula to the world) has taken over. In order to be healthy, the experts say, stay green. Eat less processed food, less sugar, less carbohydrates. One egg not two. Water is good but make sure it crosses State lines... oh it's all confusing. And agreeable. Until you hear another claim or news report and then you wonder if the Pepsi you have been guzzling at work each afternoon is really eating away at your insides.

Along comes some samples of Peeled Snacks from PoshMama. I was a bit perplexed. Because, um, I'm not really a health food nut. My son eats chicken nuggets for breakfast, lunch and dinner! Who was I to eat and review these snacks?

Regardless, I spent some time on their website and learned about their beginnings : "In New York City in 2004, Noha Waibsnaider founded Peeled Snacks when she noticed something missing from the world of snack foods. Store shelves were full of processed potato chips, corn syrup-filled candy, and energy bars made with too many mysterious ingredients. But you couldn't get anything healthy and tasty that made you feel good about snacking. So she set about to fix that problem."

Okay. Good reasons. I mean, she's right. How long does an apple or grapes LAST in the refrigerator? And the potato chips that are constantly being eaten in my pantry, could be replaced with something else in the daily packed lunches right? So, I gave them a shot. My son, intrigued by the packages on the counter, gave them a taste too.

There were three varieties of fruit & nut mixes. Packaging was definitely modern, unique and see through. You could see what you were buying... and that alone, makes their claim of "ingredients that you recognize" more real (it's hard to miss dried pieces of sliced Pineapple!). Will I say there were excellent? I can't say just yet, I've only tried a few. Four stars to the pine-4-Pineapple and the Apple-2-the-core, though. The others? Give or take depending on my day and I haven't dug into every bag yet.

My son? The apples. And that is pretty much it. And my son likes fruit--apples, cantaloupe, honeydew, grapes, strawberries. But he just didn't quite get the DRIED part. Yet. Because, I must say, every time I open a new package, he does want to "take a taste." So, there's hope yet. Because to me, the BEST part of these, are the fact that they can sit on my pantry shelf for a while without "spoiling."

Eating fresh is good. We all agree right? But to me, Miss I Grew Up Eating Processed Food, we all need TREATS... no one would have those white chocolate mochas if they weren't good for something. What about chocolate cake? Processed smoshest, I need to indulge on occasion.

My point? It's all about moderation. Eating what you like but not gorging (tell that to my head and not my stomach). And, really, processed foods are what they are. I grew up on them and they didn't kill me (even with my extra chunky thighs). But having a nice juicy apple or ripe orange can't be beat on a summer day. How about that fruit salad at the neighborhood BBQ? A fresh pineapple (have you ever had a really fresh one from Hawaii? They are to die for!).

These fruit snacks? A great alternative to changing it up. And they have a longer shelf life. Not to knock the fact that I can grab them while walking out the door for work, because, well, that makes them an even better snack than buying one at the local fast food joint. And if I ever get back on Weight Watchers... well, I am sure I'll be stocking up for those late afternoon sweet cravings I inevitably get.

Labels: Food, life, me, reviews

12:23 AM | Permalink | 1 comments

In the past few weeks, I've given some props to some wonderful books at Poshmama.com. Won't bore you with details here (especially if you read over there), but if you're into light women's fiction books (as in beach/night reads that are quick, fun, and delightful), check out SWITCHCRAFT by Mary Castillo, ACCIDENTAL IT GIRL by Libby Street, CARPE DEMON: ADVENTURES OF A DEMON-HUNTING SOCCER MOM by Julie Kenner, HOW TO TEACH FILTHY RICH GIRLS by Zoey Dean, or my latest read THE UNFORTUNATE MISS FORTUNES by Jennifer Crusie, Anne Stuart and Eileen Dreyer. All great fun for a summer night.

Now, if you want something with a bit more meat? Or say, not exactly women's fiction, but still a good read, try KEEPER AND KID by Edward Hardy, MATRIMONY by Joshua Henkin or MORE THAN IT HURTS YOU by Darin Strauss. All still great summer reads, but not so light on your toes (but maybe turning the pages just as fast).

Speaking of not being light on my toes, I can't say I have been participating whole-heartedly in Melanie Hauser's 3 Books A Month Club (hell, I'm reading, just not reporting back). But hoping this list gives me at least a half a gold star for attempting to get back in the game.

And if you aren't over at Poshmama, get on over there. It's a blast. Though, the rules say you have to be female (not necessarily a mom). Sorry guys, it's a bit exclusive. Then again, do you really want to hear about make-up, style tips, and clothing every day?

Labels: 3 books a month, books, reading, reviews

10:31 PM | Permalink | 0 comments

I'm going on vacation in 1 day. One, bloody more set of 24 hours that constitute a day. Which means I'll have not one more ounce of work to think about for 13 days. And that seems blissful. Especially if I would have had A SUMMER AFFAIR to read while I was ON vacation, as it is perfect for one of those times you just want to be whisked away into someone else's existence for a few hours. Or days. I mean, look at that cover? Does that not just scream flip flops and Capri pants while basking in the sun?

The book's premise is one I could relate to--a woman, a mom to four, wife to one is a people-pleaser. Claire Danner Crispin's also an artist. Well, ex-artist, after she decided to give up her glass-blowing of art pieces when her son was born premature. And of course she runs a household on Nantucket. But the story really begins a few years earlier...

Claire went out with her girlfriends for a night of drinks. Martinis, beer, wine be had a few jumped in a camp and another didn't listen to the rest and jumped in her car. And wham... and accident. Daphne does recover. But not completely to the "way she was," and Claire is ridden with guilt. Heavy guilt. Her reasoning? She bought the last round of drinks and she invited the woman for God-sakes!

The guilt doesn't stop there... there's her son's early birth due to her hot shop/glass blowing activities. Then there are the 800 odd things she's asked to do, and compulsively volunteers to do. Including this co-chairing the Summer Gala thing for the Nantucket Children's Benefit. Which, since Lock Dixon asked her (hint: Daphne's husband. The woman who was in the accident), how could she say no?

It's get even more complicated... she gets asked create an auction piece for the event, the fact that her best friend is also her sister in law, or that she knows the hottest rock star on the planet (Max West) and they expect her to get him to come and play at the Gala. For Free. He was her old boyfriend, it isn't impossible--right? Oh and her sister and brother-in-law own a catering business that could be up for the Gala, that Jason, her husband, has a high libido (yhen again what nan doesn't?)--oh and one other tiny thing, she ends up in an extra-marital affair.

You can imagine how messy this gets for Claire right? Very. Messy. So much so I found myself shaking my head and wondering what else might get screwed up in the process. And that is part of the "fun" part of the book. You get to read. Gasp. Make snarky comments. Judge. And hell, you're in your own home and no one is the wiser. In the end, you might even get to see how the hell this all turns out for Claire.

Elin Hilderbrand (author extraordinaire) does a great job of giving you a sense of community in the book (Nantucket's not that big) and the very fact that it is a small town. One that has only a handful of people (as compared to say Chicago or New York) and they all intertwine. Some more literally, as in family lines, more than others, who say work together professionally. Or say, socially.

After getting sucked into Claire's life and emotions for the first portion of the book, I felt a bit cheated when the point of view changed and I was in someone else's head. In fact, I was sad. I wanted Claire back! But then I turned a few more pages. Read some more. Got sucked in again, And learned more about Siobhan. And then Gavin. Lock. Jason. Oh hell, the whole lot of characters. It gave the book more depth. More complication. And that is what makes this book a good summer read.

The story takes you outside yourself--even back into your childhood thinking about your first love. You imagine yourself in the predicaments. The friendships. The families. And suddenly you are at the end of the book! It's a solid tale with twists, a few heart-aching moments, truthfulness, and some depth. It's great to get lost in, especially when on vacation. But you might just find yourself wanting to keep tagging along with this crew for another installment. You meet a lot of characters and there isn't one that you don't find out a hidden truth.


* This post brought to you by the lovely ladies at MotherTalk. Yep, I get books to read, reviews to write, and an occassional gift certificate for my time.

Labels: blog tour, books, MotherTalk, reading, reviews

5:21 AM | Permalink | 1 comments

The story starts simple enough--a man, Josh Goldin, an TV airtime salesman, that works for Sparkplug, a television company. Walking around with the new person on the block. Smiling. Working his magic. Being the co-worker he always knew he could be, and then the call comes. His son is in the hospital.

The 8-month-old vomited. But it wasn't just normal vomit there was blood in it, then he coded. Then he was all right. And then there were the doctors. Did Dori, Josh's wife remember to tell the attending ER doctor about the blood? What about the tests they did or did not do? And this is only where the story begins.

And it of course gets more complicated. There is the head of the Pediatrician unit at the hospital, Dr Darlene Stokes, who wonders about this family. Particularly the mother. And then there's Dr Stokes' mother, Alice. Her ex-con father Intelligent Mohammad (or Charles Stokes). Her now dead husband... her own son James.

But those are only the characters and the basic situations. What makes MORE THAN IT HURTS YOU one of the best reads I've had recently is the layering of information. The minute you think you "know" a character, it all changes. I was flip flopping from tender moments of intimacy with knowing what motivated a character (or so I thought), to gut wrenching scenes that had me gasping for breath. Who knew you could read along with the story and suddenly have everything you knew ripped from you?

It's a page-turner in and of itself since, once in the flow of the story, there is a need to keep reading. To find out what you didn't know three pages before. To find out what is going to happen to the characters that your suddenly caring about.

Of course, as with the real world, the book is also wrought with personalities, race, religion, morals, justice, and plain old life circumstance. But what makes it worth the read, is how these all play off one another. Does the book go "over the top" for the sake of fiction? Not really. It gives you a peak into each players head and gives you the reasons and motivations behind their actions--sometimes with disturbing effects.

It's truly a wonderfully crafted tale. There are twists, turns, suspicions, and a whole lot of good story telling. I am still breathless and caught up in what transpires. It's a book that will have to be read more than once to catch all the nuances the author, Darin Strauss, intended.

Oh and did I sound like I was gushing? Well, I am. The book took me by surprise and I love that. I'd read the blurbs, signed up to review and added it to the pile. But when I started reading? Well it became the book I didn't expect, but in a good way. Completely captivating and compelling read. Even though, there was more then once, I was a bit afraid what might be on the next page--or what dear character might throw me for a loop next. Trust me on this one, completely worth the read. Just get ready for a few surprises.

* This post brought to you by the lovely ladies at MotherTalk. Love that I get a chance to read and relate to these authors and their work. It truly is a labor of love.

Labels: books, MotherTalk, reading, reviews

4:36 AM | Permalink | 1 comments

I'm a mom that has always worked once she had children. My son was 6-weeks-old when I went back to work. And I was fortunate, I was a consultant and worked completely from home. That is until 3 months later I had to work on site 10 hours a day all summer long. And then of course, I went back to working from home MOST days of the week, back to a full time in office gig.

With my daughter, I did take the full maternity leave that I could afford--16 weeks. We even pulled my son out of pre-school during that time too. To save money, to save my time from shuffling him to and from school, and--if I am honest--to see if I could do the stay-at-home thing. And you know what? I could.

The reality is, when my son was born, it freaked me out to consider staying home. I'd spent a long time in college, a lot of money on a degree, and a lot of time building a budding career. I couldn't stand to think of leaving that for mommyhood. So, I didn't. I jumped back into work. I stressed, I managed, and I breastfed the kid til he was almost two--all with a headset attached to my ear for numerous conference calls, more than a few overnight stays on client sites, and survived it all.

With my daughter, and my son now older, wiser, and looking a bit too grown up... I had a different perspective. One of a mom considering staying at home. Or wanting to stay at home to enjoy these "fleeting" moments with my kids. And hell, we can't have more if I am working my tail off! But...

So, I am going out on a limb here, I am scared to try it. For a few reasons. Financial is numero uno. How can one afford to live on one salary? Seriously, you give me ways to do this (we already live by a budget), and I might just have to give my notice tomorrow! Secondly, it's my sanity. I know how it is to stay at home with children. I've lived through it twice now. And am still living with an expressive 9-month-old who only likes to be held when I am around and a kindergartener come Fall. There is a helluvalot more running aroudn now! And a lot less of mom to pull into directions.

Enter THE STAY-AT-HOME SURVIVAL GUIDE Field-tested strategies for staying smart, sane, and connected while caring for your kids by Melissa Stanton. I seriously cannot gush enough about this book. It's not a tell-all guide for leaving work and becoming a stay at home mom. Really. We all live different lives, who knows what you need to do to take the leap. But it does share what other moms did. What Melissa, the author herself, did. What you could do. And by all means, what you might do.

But what the book does best is just share with you that--guess what--staying home as a mom is a full time gig. One that isn't always pretty. Sometimes sucks. But in the end, can be survivable and fun. Is this some earth-shattering new news? Hell no! We all love our kids. When they aren't screaming, having tantrums, and are acting like angels for the 2 seconds a day that make them utterly adorable we could just eat them up.

This book gives you the reality, shares other mom realities, and offers that shoulder (of many) that you can turn to, to know what to expect when staying at home, and how to make the best of it. LOVE the extras in and about the chapters (Who Cares for Katie Couric's Kids? cracked me up. The title tells all--celebrities are given gold stars for being moms. But, um, do they do it all on their own?). And as much as the book says it is for stay-at-home moms, there is a ton of info that is JUST as valauble to a working mom. Especially one who works from home part of the time. But even if you don't... who doesn't need a little guidance (or a few girlfriends) to tell you that you aren't alone when you forgot diapers at home, spend more time in your car carting around kids to games and doctor appointments than you have for yourself in the last 10 years, and that your feeling along in this parenting thing. Really alone.

The books weaving of expert advice, or articles on parenting/women/working/SAHM/WAHM/whatever label you want to put here, and personal adcedotes, along with the whole "girlfriend" tone of the book is wonderful. Delightful even. It's not preachy. It just tells facts. Relatable, REAL life experiences... that as I said, make it a worth while read no matter what you circumstance. But even moreso if you want to, have considered, ARE, or once was a stay at home mom doing THAT juggling dance (because, come on, being a SAHM does mean you are multitasking to the 9th degree... laundry, cleaning, feeding, napping, bathing, dressing, hygene, appointments, games, school, crafts, cooking).

Which brings me back to my point... I asked to review this book because I'd love more than anything to land on the other side of the fence. Chuck the paying corporate day job to stay home with my kids. My stress level would be reduced to only times of tantrums and sickness (instead of worrying myself to the point of sickness when I left the baby at the sitter when she wasn't exactly better). I wouldn't have to juggle a crying baby and whining 5 year old while on a conference call and leading a high-profile project (because when you add that to the SAHM list above, it is almost heart-attack stressful). And maybe once a year, just once, I could relax and enjoy being "just a mom." Because quite frankly, there are days it would be nice. This book makes me wonder if I should just take the plunge.


* This post brought to you by the lovely ladies at MotherTalk. Love that I get a chance to read and relate to these authors and their work. It truly is a labor of love.

Labels: books, motherhood, MotherTalk, parenting, reading, reviews

7:47 AM | Permalink | 2 comments

I'm a sucker for some decent kid's music and television shows. As a work from home parent 3 - 4 days a week, I need more than 15 minutes of work time (and a bit of me time when I can grab it). So, I was delighted when MotherTalk offered up a cool bundle of music and a DVD centered on children (yep, I use the television to babysit every now and again).

Here's the details, right from THAT BABY website:

That Baby DVD and That Baby CD are groundbreaking products full of fun music and visuals for kids age 0-5. Rather than relying on the old nursery rhymes or music box tones of other kids’ videos, these really rock. We’ve taken great songs – songs that you may have sung at camp or put on a mix tape in your youth – and reworked them with fantastic new acoustic and vocal arrangements.

Combining the music of artists like Fleetwood Mac, Natalie Merchant, Joni Mitchell, and The Pretenders with rich, colorful visuals, That Baby DVD is sure to bring a smile to the face of the child in your life. The CD features all the music from the DVD, plus three bonus songs written by Bob Marley, The Beatles, and Paul Simon.

As soon as this package arrived my almost 6 year old boy was chomping at the bit to watch the DVD. It's a movie. With a kid on the cover, how can he NOT be getting a new "show" to watch. And that he did. Even though, it was really centered on a younger audience. A bit older than my 8 month old daughter. Though she found the collages and puppets definitely pleasing. Even after we played it three times.

The CD however, has been an even bigger splash for our frequent car rides to pre-school and back. The Kiddo hums and sings songs as we gander the few miles to his day care. And I know he likes it because he requests the music. Even more than his Alvin and the Chipmunks CD. Which, in my opinion, scores this music set a huge 5 stars. I can almost hear nails on the chalkboard each time Alvin launches into a solo.

So THAT BABY has captured the hearts of my kids. Mostly the boy, since he can at least tell me he likes it. Though The Peanut definitely doesn't fuss as much with it on. But she's like that with any music right now.

My son's only complaint, "Why didn't they put a faster song first. Like Pony Boy."

Yeah, my kid's a Springsteen fan. Gotta love 'em!

And here's some incentive if you want to but this package yourself--Enter the coupon code MotherTalk when purchasing at THAT BABY DVD website and save 20% on your entire order! From now until May 18th, all orders using the coupon code "MotherTalk" will be entered in a drawing to win a new iPod nano.

Labels: blog tour, kid, music, reviews

12:30 AM | Permalink | 4 comments

I fell in love, immediately with the characters in THE CURE FOR MODERN LIFE. Which, is what I very much expected from Lisa Tucker. I loved the characters in ONCE UPON A DAY.

To say I was smitten with Matthew Connelly, not completely accurate. It took me at least three chapters to begin to sort him out (how couldn't it when the first line is, " Was Matthew Connelly a bad man?"). But then again, he's a man. And that figuring out thing? Well, it made him that much more intriguing. And fun to read about. Which, Lisa did flawlessly. But don't let me get too hung up on Matthew. There's more characters to swoon over.

There's Danny and Isabelle... the homeless children that, by chance, get thrown into Matthew's life. And suddenly make him question how he's lived his life and what's right. The knight trying to save his sister... and mother. So naive and unobstructed with the material things in life (except an iPod of course!). It is sweet. Innocent. And touching.

Of course, I can't forget Amelia--Matthew's once lover and now arch enemy. That whole dynamic--and Amelia's thoughts on the ethical and human parts of life? Had me riveted. She's complicated, dynamic, emotional... so real. The old college friend, Ben--super-genius scientist. Who's complicated in his own right. Sure, Matthew describes him as shy and introverted (scared to ask Amelia out)... but soon you find out, maybe he's not as shy as anticipated. Maybe driven in the world of science--but not scared of the world.

All of these characters that I love so much entwine, twist, turn, and then question every decision they've made (and might make) into this wonderful story. Another that I will be keeping up on my shelf. I just couldn't put the book down for a WHOLE NIGHT. I kept putting myself in the shoes of the characters... what would I do? How would I react? Would I challenge Matthew? or Ben? Or Amelia? Would I kick out Danny and Isabelle? The book was addicting. As were the characters.

Here's the back jacket blurb to get you started:

Matthew and Amelia were once in love and planning to raise a family together, but a decade later, they have become professional enemies.

To Amelia, who has dedicated her life to medical ethics, Matthew's job as a high-powered pharmaceutical executive has turned him into a heartless person who doesn't care about anything but money. Now they're kept in balance only by Matthew's best and oldest friend, Ben, a rising science superstar -- and Amelia's new boyfriend.

That balance begins to crumble one night when, coming home to his upscale Philadelphia loft, Matthew finds himself on a desolate bridge face-to-face with a boy screaming for help. Homeless for most of his life, ten-year-old Danny is as streetwise as he is world-weary, and his desperation to save his three-year-old sister means he will do whatever it takes to get Matthew's help. What follows is an escalating game of one-upmanship between Matthew, Amelia, and Danny, as all three players struggle to defend what is most important to them -- and are ultimately forced to reconsider what they truly want.

The Cure for Modern Life is about what it means in the twenty-first century to be responsible, to care about otherpeople, and to do the right thing.

But don't take my word for it, check out the book for yourself! While your waiting, check out the other stuff online:

- Lisa Tucker's Website
- Chapter One Excerpt
- Reviews
- Buy the book from Amazon now

Again, this post is brought to you by the lovely ladies at MotherTalk! Keep the great books coming...

Labels: blog tour, books, MotherTalk, reading, reviews

12:00 PM | Permalink | 0 comments

I'm married to an Only. To which, I am not. I have one sister a couple years younger. One who, we don't always see eye-to-eye (toy-to-toy, life chance-to-life-chance) but, we are nonetheless sisters to the core. Mess with her, you mess with me (yes, that's the Big Sister/Brother Mantra. And it still stands today). Sibling life, after being married for over 9 years to an Only, I realize is different. At least to one that is an Only.

Early on, when my husband was only a boyfriend, we did the obligatory holiday visit to the families. We started at my parent's home. Hugs, kisses, presents, tree-decorating, food, and of course, the annual sisterly fight. That particularly year, it only took about 5 hours.

My sister was still in high school. I'd come home from college with my boyfriend and, for once, was ready for a little family time. It didn't bother me to chit chat with mom and dad in front of the illuminated fire place and reminisce, discuss politics, and even come to terms with my last term's grades. I was, what-can-I-call-it, being treated almost like an adult. And with a man at my side, I almost felt like one. At least until my sister decided she was bored. Friends started calling non-stop and she expected to be able to take the car for a night on the town. On Christmas Eve.

Initially, whether I was showing off for this boyfriend or to my parents my new found grown-upedness, I kept my trap shut. I think I even offered a thin smile to what-would-become-my-future-husband and tried to let it roll off my shoulders. My sister, barely sixteen, kept badgering my parent's authority. Chiming in to say how "she never gets to do anything," and about how "unfair it was that they were keeping her home." She even went so far as to say that they were "ruining her life." Remembering my year at 16, the feelings were normal. Ones I likely shared too. Not in that way of course. I was the eldest. Surely, I didn't storm off in tantrums and slam doors. But then of course, my sister, master of pushing my buttons (as all siblings are), did the abdominal--she pulled the sister card. "You would have let Beth do it!" she screamed from the top of the stairs.

Whether this was a dig at my parent's parenting ability or at at myself didn't matter, my blood immediately boiled. I digressed into behaving like a ten-year-old and stomped upstairs to have an "adult" word with my sister. Why didn't she want to spend time with me (it wasn't every weekend I was home from college)? Did she not want to meet my boyfriend? Be with mom and dad?

The fight, accusing, combative, combustive--all sisterly, all sibling related. Even the jab at my adolescent rights (and no, my parents wouldn't have let me take the car to visit friends on Christmas Eve. This was notoriously a "family night"). Nothing really out of the ordinary. Except maybe that I had a boyfriend sitting downstairs, foolishly grinning and trying to get along with my parents without my presence at his side.

But for my eventual husband? This "argument?" The futility of it all. Unreasonable explosiveness. The very fact that it turned into a sister fight over nothing--appalled him! How could I? She was my sister! I had a sister, one that albeit immature sometimes (at least at 16), but a sibling nonetheless... why fight? He obviously was oblivious. I reasoned my actions to him--showed the bones of contention, why her jab had wounded my feelings, why if my parents DID let her take the car it would dishonor me... and well, it all fell on deaf ears. He was still laughing at my pointed list of reasons why I was mad. All he could understand was that she was my sister. Period. Who cares if she left to visit friends? We'd visited over dinner. After dinner. Tomorrow... and of course, put in those terms. He was (probably) right. At least in that moment.

The thing is--by experiencing that moment then, and reliving it now--I can see, how as an only child, the moment was funny. If not excruciatingly embarrassing for him. He didn't get it. The fighting. And the fact that she's my sister, getting on each other's nerves is part of the big picture. Part of being siblings. Part of who we are and our relationship.

That is where I missed the point. He didn't know. As an Only--it was him and his parents. And that relationship would require an entire post itself to dissect. It was tumultuous in good times. Being a girlfriend (and now wife) of an only son had a mountain of expectations to complicate matters. Family names had to be taken into consideration. What about future children. What about holidays--we have no other children to make them special. The need and wants for their son's (full) attention. Being on-call for parents when they need them... the list was endless. And here I'd thought this one-ness might make it less complicated.

ONLY CHILD dissects the Only mystery. It's full of insight and honesty for all the nuances of what being an Only means--whether that is content, lonely, jealous, insightful, always feeling on the outside. Each essay gave me a little ity bit more insight into my husband's brain. His hard-wired one-ness. It's complicated! I had no idea that the idea of turning to a someone special instead of one's parents for advice was so life changing (Laundry Distance by Lynn Harris). Or the burdens of losing a parent (we all know that is hard, really hard)--can be especially burdening on a single-child (Dodging Laurie by Daphne Uviller). Sure this seems obviouss, but THINK about it some more. Only child, only responsiblity (and unfortunatley, this year, The Husband has had first hand experience at this). Or the fact that no matter what you do as an only child--you're it. The everything--and mostly high expectations follow (You're It by Betty Rollin).

All of this is nothing new--if I thought about it enough. But coming from the writings of other Onlies? Well it gives me more of a perspective of what it might have been like growing up like my husband. Or why, when we decided to have children--it was always children, not a child. His deepest want was admitted, he always wanted a sibling.

Thoughtful, heart-wrenching, honest, and funny--these writers brought it to life for me. The life of an Only is just as complicated as those with Siblings. And now you have a little insight into why. Take a look at the author's websites, blog, interviews (all below), and more:

- Deborah Siegel's Website
- Girl With Pen - Deborha's Blog
- Interview with Deborah
- Daphne Uviller's Website
- Publisher's website
- Purchase the book from Amazon

*This post brought to you by the lovely ladies at MotherTalk. And the Publisher. Love that I get a chance to read and relate to these authors and their work. It truly is a labor of love.

Labels: blog tour, MotherTalk, reading, reviews

1:48 AM | Permalink | 0 comments

Need the honest-to-God, I'm gonna give it to you like it is, wine-drinking, exhaustion ridden truths about raising a toddler (believe me when I say I've been there)? Well, NAPTIME IS THE NEW HAPPY HOUR and OTHER WAYS TODDLERS TURN YOUR LIFE UPSIDE DOWN by Stefanie Wilder-Taylor is just your book (and then some).

This ain't no parenting advice book. Well not really anyway. Sure we get a handful of children's television show reviews, toy suggestions (or not), the holiday dos and dont's, as well as how to find a good mom friend (or playdate). But it's not all fact-bound or stuffy. It's more--how shall I put this?--candid. And freaking HILARIOUS. Stefanie takes the fun and puts it back into motherhood. Not to mention a dose of much-needed reality. All that mom-poser stuff--my kid is better than yours because we don't watch TV, never have a lick of sugar, and know seven languages by age 3--is given a much needed bitch slapping.

I don't know about you, but life on the playgroup scene hasn't been to kind to me. I tried on a few (six) when The Kidd was a baby. And then again when he turned 118-month(ish). I figure he needed a friend or two (and hell, I needed someone to talk to that wasn't providing me a paycheck or eating Cheerios off the floor). So, my misadventures in the playgroup scene began. Much like Stefanie, I met the Holier-than-Thou Moms. The ones stuffing so many activities in a day they were afraid to stay home, and Those that Like To Compare Milestone Notes. It was awful. So much so, I just gave up and went back to working from home countless hours a week and sat The Kiddo behind me to watch hours of television.

Stefanie's experiences in NAPTIME don't end with playgroups though. She runs the gamut with the reality checks, sarcastic toddler humor, and I'm Gonna Die moments. These are a few of my favorites in the book:

- Suburban Boredom (let me fess up... Stefanie and I, different backgrounds. But that doesn't mean that this essay didn't have me crying in I-can-relate tears.)
- Supermom or Superlair?
- Playdates: and Other Potentially Irritating Ways to Spend an Afternoon
- Television: It's Not Just For When You Are In the Shower
- Food: It's Not What's For Dinner
- A Little Help, Please?
- It's All About Date Night: And Other Urban Legends
- Going for Broke--Or a Second Baby

Okay, really I liked them all. Making this list was like cutting off an arm.

I've never had so much fun reading a parenting book before. And I've read plenty. This one was poignant, hysterical, and one I'm adding to my list of Read This Before Kids pile for baby showers gifts. Mostly because, I want new mothers to see the funny in the chaos of what life becomes.

Ready for more Stefanie? I sure am! You can find more info here:
- Baby on Bored (Stefanie's blog)
- Two interviews by Mommy Bloggers (here and here)
- Buy the book on Amazon

Seriously, if you are ready for more laughs, her blog is the first stop.

*This post brought to you by the lovely ladies at Mothertalk. Gotta love 'em!

Labels: blog tour, books, reading, reviews

2:08 AM | Permalink | 0 comments

Simple put, this book ain't for sissies. It tackles all the hard stuff--abortion, alcoholism, life, death, infertility, friendships, single-motherhood, relationships, divorce, career. And there isn't a reprieve throughout the entire book. It's wonderfully crafted, throwing you into the lives of five women in their late thirties--all of them having known each other for years--and let's you live their lives for a moment.

From the beginning THE BABY LOTTERY by Kathryn Trueblood tackles tough issues, Nan, the OB nurse is the first of the characters we meet is in the midst of her work day. Which, for this nurse, isn't a good day. She loves her job and was made to do what she does (mom a nurse in WWII and a minister dad who ended up helping pregnant mothers in need), but has become a bit hardened with time. Why wouldn't she? She was a single young mom earlier than all her friends. Responsibility wasn't a choice, it was her only option. But... I am getting ahead of myself.

Here's the rest of the characters: Jean, the recent divorcee and a woman torn because of failed pregnancies and her inability to conceive. She's wrought between a past and her current life. And being burnt out by her previous career as a social worker. It only gets more complicated when Charlotte get's pregnant (bear with me, I'll cover Charlotte in a bit). Virginia (also a divorcee), the lecturer and now single mom of Milo. Her soon to be ex-husband tried hard (and could fix everything), but seemed to never know that there was a bank account that did run out of money. Eventually. Ginny's trying to balance now a full course load, this new single-mom thing, and of course living alone. Believe me when I say it's not all fun and games.

Tasi is the forever career woman. Has literally climbed the corporate ladder from an Admin to now a PR director of sorts. Honestly, knowing women like her in real life, she rocks! And one would think she has it all right? Well, she's not married, no kids... and she'd Vacation Dating a married man in the office. It get icky. So does the rest of Tasi's life when her mom's health gets a blow, as well as her Dad's dealing with her mom's health. And then there are her brothers, her ulcers... and you'll have to read for the whole of it.

And lastly Charlotte. It is no secret that this is the catalyst for this entire story... hell, it is on the jacket copy. Charlotte is the immature friend. You know the one--parties, naive, gets married for all the wrong reasons. Yes, that's her in a nutshell. And then she becomes pregnant. And delays the abortion til the second trimester. How's that one for a cliffhanger? Well, it's what gets all these women talking. And questioning. And wondering. And faltering.

The book is honest. Open. In a Tell It Like It Is sorta writing style. Each woman has a different perspective. Different opinion. And let me be the first to tell you they clash. This is a hot topic, why wouldn't it mimic real life?

Kathryn doesn't back down one bit from the heart of the matter on all accounts. Even including the pasts of every character, down the the truth of it all--they've shared one common element. Abortion. And now it's finding its way back into their lives again. Riveting commentary. Heartbreaking choices. And real life women adorn the pages of the book. And keep you reading until the end.

Want to learn more about THE BABY LOTTERY or Kathryn? It's easy, check these places out online:
- Kathryn Trueblood's Web Page
- An Excerpt from the book
- Interview with Kathryn
- Buy the book here

Labels: books, reading, reviews

8:41 PM | Permalink | 0 comments

Yes, that's Alvin from Alvin and the Chipmunks--the latest release for Fox Home Entertainment. They (as in some industry PR guy) gave me an e-mail to see if I'd like a screener copy. I figured my son would be a good a "screener" as any for this movie, as we never made it to the theater to watch it (and the commercials caused a ruckus of "Mom, can we go watch that's" that I was ready to be done with. Damn the kid that can't be happy with a TiVo hard drive full of his personal television network).

Now is a good time as any to admit the obvious--I haven't watched the movie in its entirety. It was what we call in this house a Distraction Movie. Something we put on the television when we want a little adult interaction time. Well, if we didn't have a 6 month old that wanted to nurse and cuddle all the while the 5 year old was occupied. But that is another post all together.

Anyway, I know that the adult critics of the online (and some print) varieties slammed this movie--but apparently they don't have a mind of a 5-year-old. My son, glued to the television set for the entire 120 minute (or thereabouts) viewing time. Not one peep escaped his mouth from the other room-nor did he come barreling into the living room to interrupt our conversation (a first and a record for our house). Not only did the movie entertain him, that is all he's talked about for the last week. And the folder the screener DVD arrived in.

The Kiddo is dead set on getting the music CD (a friend at pre-school has it) and as been singing nasal-voiced versions of Funky Town since viewing this movie (and hearing the song CD at school). Not only that, he has told me numerous stories about the chipmunks. That they get lost in a basket full of muffins. That they visit Uncle Leo. And he's wondering if he can get a suitcase like Alvin's. Because, if I didn't know this already, Alvin is the coolest. But Simon is smart. And Theodore funny. Even though he falls a lot.

So, no matter what the ADULT critics have said about this flick, it seems a hit with the younger crowd. At least in this house. I can't sneeze at that for the moment. Granted when he wants to watch it again for the 100th time, I might re-nig this glorified review, but for the time being--from one kid to another, he gives it 5 starts. And a hollering, "Won't you take me to, funky town!"

Labels: movie, reviews

5:12 PM | Permalink | 0 comments

Remember Patry Francis and my plea for you to go buy her first book? As I stated, I joined the 300+ bloggers (and more now) to help a fellow writer--one who's book debuted just recently, but also a woman who's been suddenly diagnosed with cancer and is under going treatment. Right when her book is being released.

Well, I finally got her book in my hands, THE LIAR'S DIARY. If the large dark rings under my eyes prove anything today, is that the book did not disappoint. Not in a million years. It was heart-wrenching, real, frightening--and an all very well written thriller that will keep you page turning (like I did) until you find yourself at the end. An end that will have your swirling and whirling (again, like me).

I can't give away too many details. For one there are just too many and I won't give the book (and author) justice. And secondly, I just want to let the story unfold for you--the way it should. It's a thriller! I can't give a thing away. I just can't!

BUT, I do want to say this, the characters in this book, well, are to die for. Very real, riveting, and keep you guessing. I guess you could say they are very human, very real, and complicated. As each of us should be (don't you think?). Read and watch as the story unfolds. It will take you to dark places inside each of us. And into the hearts and minds into a cast of characters that will have you thinking about them--even after you put the book down 12 hours earlier.

It's a little like being thrown into suburbia, into a woman's life, into her families life, into her communities life, and learning about it all. How precarious it all is. Especially when something dreadful goes really (really) wrong. It's got all the pieces of a great literary read. Throw in the suspense. The sticky parts. And all the love that goes along with families, friends, and life. That's THE LIAR'S DIARY. Fabulous read to get lost in--make it your bathtub read this weekend. Trust me, you won't be able to put it down (might consider getting out of the bath and moving to your bed so you don't shrivel up into nothing). Oh, and you'll want to hug all that are near and dear to you when it's over.

Here's some more links to take a look at before you book arrives:

- Patry Francis' Website
- Patry's Blog
- Litparks' interview with Patry
- Algonkian Writer Conference's interview
- Patry's Publishers Marketplace Blog Home (writerly and authorly type advise)

Again, if sly, thrilling, suspense is your thing, get this book. It's really good.

This post was brought to you (again) by the lovely ladies at MotherTalk. I love them. So will you. Stop by to read what others have to say about this book, and many others they help promote. The author's will love you.

Labels: blog tour, books, reading, reviews

12:13 AM | Permalink | 0 comments

If asked to describe this book in 3 words, I'd have to pick breath-taking, touching, and heart-wrenching.

I wish I could say it is in one of those Happy Ever After Ways, and it is--sorta--but instead it is more of a I Can't Get Over That Felicia Survived It Way. And by It I mean a childhood wrought with hardship, little money, a mother obsessed with drugs, alcohol, herself, and men that were no good. And an adulthood that managed to get her "out" of one lifestyle and into another one. One that was full of more money but just as much alcohol and unfortunately just as much cocaine. Only good point, Felicia got out of it. She found a way to push herself past her mother and let go.

Sorry, if I gave the ending away, but seriously, she wrote the book. She'd have to NOT be high. Right? (And Felicia, this is meant as sarcasm. Really. you go girl, because after what you went through, well, no one can play victim anymore. You just go out there and keep writing. Knock 'em dead. Kinky hair and all. Hell, you should see how stringy mine is!)

THE SKY ISN'T VISIBLE FROM HERE is wrought with childhood stories of the haunting kind. For me, an ordinary girl from the Midwest with a "normal" mom, it is almost unfathomable that a child could grow up and out of this environment. I'm not that naive to know that it doesn't happen though. I'm just again happy my life was pretty normal.

The most touching portion of the whole book is Felicia's love for her mother. Still. Even though she hasn't heard from her since the night of her college graduation and the fact that she has indeed let her go. Forever. In fact, the entire book revolves around how she is trying to "shed" this love. Her mother haunts her dreams, her decisions, and even her adulthood. That is, until she finally (finally) decides to let go. Let her mother be who she is, without trying to hide it from the rest of the world. And, by doing that, be who she is without her mother. It's breath-taking and honest. A path not many of us would want to take--breaking ties with a parent. And standing firm on it. But it's one Felicia took full heartedly.

Really, I just wanted to cheer as I neared the end of this book. And cry at the same time. Felicia was honest, open, and earth-shatteringly real throughout the book. She told the world about the worst moments of her life (and likely the most embarrassing). But yet when I read the book, I wasn't thinking it was embarrassing for Felicia, it was for her mother. She had a good thing going for her--a really good thing--and look at where "Lisa" is now?

I can't think of any better cause to go out and get this book other than to support a woman who has done it all by herself. She's come from out from under one of the biggest struggles of her life and made it out on top. Without the parental validation we all crave. And without a mother. So go buy her book.

Here's the official blurb:

Felicia Sullivan’s volatile, beautiful, deceitful, drug-addicted mother disappeared on the night Sullivan graduated from college, and has not been seen or heard from in the ten years since. Sullivan, who grew up on the tough streets of Brooklyn in the 1980s, now looks back on her childhood—lived among drug dealers, users, and substitute fathers. Sullivan became her mother’s keeper, taking her to the hospital when she overdosed, withstanding her narcissistic rages, succumbing to the abuse or indifference of so-called stepfathers, and always wondering why her mother would never reveal the truth about the father she’d never met.

Ashamed of her past, Sullivan invented a persona to show the world. Yet despite her Ivy League education and numerous accomplishments, she, like her mother, eventually succumbed to alcohol and drug abuse. She wrote The Sky Isn’t Visible from Here, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, when she realized it was time to kill her own creation.

And if that isn't enough, read the first chapter here (it is a PDF that will download).

Other places to visit online to learn about Felicia and this book are here:

- Felicia's Web Site and blog
- Guest blog post on Girl's Gone Child (this was so touching, it it TOTALLY worth the read)
- Interviews: Literary Rejections on Display, Interview in the Gothamist, Biography on Identity Theory, and Interview on Cruelest Month
- Buy the book at Amazon

This post brought to you by the lovely ladies at MotherTalk. THE place for books, reviews, and all things motherly.

Labels: blog tour, books, MotherTalk, reading, reviews

12:12 AM | Permalink | 1 comments

Cancer sucks. No matter what the form--colon, lung, prostate--it is a definite buzz kill in any conversation. And completely a downer when "it happens" to someone you love. Which is exactly what happened to Allison Winn Scotch, the author of THE DEPARTMENT OF LOST AND FOUND.

Although the book is far from autobiographical or memoir, it is in honor of a close friend who was diagnosed with breast cancer. And the book itself? Completely compassionate, honest, raw--and well, a real look at what it would be like to be young and diagnosed with the big C.

The book follows Natalie Miller from the day her very normal (if not hectic) life as a top political aide for a New York senator and girlfriend of a gorgeous boyfriend gets turned around. The boyfriend dumps her, the doctor finds cancer, the job she'd given her life too suddenly takes a turn for the worse, and she finds herself addicted to the Price is Right on her couch in her darkened apartment.

But don't think this book is a downer. Far from it. Natalie is a fighter. And one determined to figure out where it all went wrong. She fights back from the stares at work when she does venture in to help the "good" senator out and back into her past when she looks at her last 5 boyfriends. For old times sake. And sanity sake. Natalie's personality alone makes this book. She's headstrong. Vivacious. And plain determined to beat the cancer right out of her. Even if she is in a bit of a depression (I mean, who wouldn't be).

We get a dose of the real Natalie by way of her diary at the beginning of each chapter. And those entries and full of honesty, fear, and courage. Outwardly she puts on a face--but the truth behind that face is a wonderfully afraid person doing the best they can.

The book is full of jovial fun, as well as every day nonsense that keeps you laughing, even in the face of cancer. And having Natalie go down the path of past loves of her life? Well, makes you love her even more. Don't be afraid of the heavy subject matter here, Allison does a wonderful thing as an author, you laugh through a bit of tears, but come out the other end smiling. Beautifully written and a wonderful tribute to a friend.

Here's the official blurb for the book from Allison's web site:

It didn’t start out as the worst day of Natalie Miller’s life. At thirty, she is moving up the political ladder, driven by raw ambition and ruthless determination. As the top aide to New York’s powerful female senator, she works hard, stays late, and enjoys every bit of it, even if the bills she’s pushing through do little to improve the lives of the senator’s constituents. And if her boyfriend isn’t the sexiest guy alive, at least he’s a warm body to come home to.

Then he announces he’s leaving. But that news is barely a blip compared to what Natalie’s doctor tells her: She has breast cancer. And she can’t cure it by merely being headstrong. Now the life Natalie must change is her own.

All her energy, what little of it she has left, must go into saving herself from a merciless disease. So when she’s not lying on the sofa recovering from her treatments and indulging in a curious addiction to The Price Is Right, she realizes it’s time to take a hard look at her choices. She begins by tracking down the five loves-of-her-life to assess what went wrong. Along the way, she questions her relationships with her friends, her parents, her colleagues, the one who got away, and, most important, with herself: Why is she so busy moving through life that she never stops to embrace it?

As Natalie sleuths out the answers to these questions, her journey of self-discovery takes her down new paths and to unexplored places. And she learns that sometimes when life is at its most unexpected, it’s not what you lose that makes you who you are . . . it’s what you find.

And don't forget to check out this online fun:

- Allison Winn Scotch's Official Website
- Allison's Blog (lots of info for freelance and novel writers there!)
- An Interview with Allison
- Writers Unboxed Allison shares the limelight with a handful of other authors on this blog)
- Buy the book from Amazon

Labels: author, books, reading, reviews

9:15 PM | Permalink | 0 comments

I'm a sucker for a little dirt. You know, the insider track to the "behind the scenes" stuff. And Wade Rouse doesn't disappoint in CONFESSIONS OF A PREP SCHOOL MOMMY HANDLER his second memoir.

Sure, sure, he reminds us up front in the Author's Note that he's changed names, combined a few people into one, and even hidden the "real" name of the school he was the PR director for--for what seemed like a life sentence of hell. But still--there's dirt here. Plenty of dirt. And I couldn't put the book down, I was enthralled with this life that is very foreign to what I'd grown up in (as Wade too... he shares the rural upbringing with me).

It all starts in Wade's office at the prestigious, private school "Tate Academy" on the first day of school for the year with a few deep cleansing yoga breaths. That is until the phone rings and he's summoned to the Carpool Lane. I'll warn you now, it all goes down hill from this point. Wade was appointed to handle public relations for the school--but it's no secret his job is to deal with the mommies. In particular the high-profile, rich moms who he terms "Mean Mommies" (or M2s). Or course there are the "Pink Ice Barbies" too (these are the daughters of the M2s, and appropriately wear pink. Always. Just like their mothers. And are quite fond of whispering and the term "Oh. My. God!"

Of course, I can't forget the Queen of the M2s--"Kitsy" Ludington. The source of Wade's pain. And what pain it is! She orders, plays, befriends (sorta), teases, pushes, and well basically makes this poor man's life a living hell. Especially for a man who's gay and playing it straight (the tolerance policy at Tate is officially open, but unofficially, not so much). And that is just one twist in this really twisted tale of high society at a private school where there is more money floating around in clothing than I make in an entire year of working my ass off.

This book was extremely touching, real, and well written--remember it is a memoir. It's from the point of a man trying to make it into the "in crowd." Much like what I spent my entire childhood trying to do. And to be honest--like Wade--a lot of my adulthood and career pursuing as well. And he doesn't give up. Ever.

The book twists and turns through this weird lifestyle giving away not only the secrets of the rich (well, their image anyway) but also through a "coming out" for Wade. And by coming out, I mean, coming out of his shell to be the person he wants to be in his life. I gotta respect the man, it hadn't of been easy dealing with that crowd--gay, straight, man, woman, whatever denomination. It had me chuckling, gasping, and even shouting a few of my own "Oh. My. Gaaawwwwds!"

Here's the official teaser:

On the nights following the Monday Morning Muffins with Mommies, I typically have the same dream: I have come to Tate as a gay man. Passing as a straight man. Who works only with women. And gets abused by mothers. I dream that I write a Broadway play called The Stepford Wives: The Musical. I cast the play first with Barbie dolls, but they just stand there, motionless, staring at me, so I hold auditions, telling the auditioning actresses to pretend to be robotic imitations of real women who have actual hearts and souls and minds of their own. No one gets my concept. I then try and pitch it to movie executives. "It's Victor-Victoria meets The Nanny Diaries meets The Crying Game meets The Devil Wears Prada." I do not get backing for my project. I, do, however, wake up and get to go into work.

Fun hey? I was hooked too. Thanks Wade, for going into work. This book wouldn't have been born without it. [grin] Here's some more fun to check out before you go out and buy the book (or after):

- Wade Rouse's Website
- Wade's Blog
- Wade's MySpace Page
- An Excerpt of the book
- Buy the book from Amazon

Labels: author, blog tour, books, reviews

6:19 PM | Permalink | 0 comments

Elisha Cooper never wanted kids. Or at least he thought. Until he and his wife were expecting their daughter Zoe. And then life took a whole other turn--into parenthood. That's the entire premise of Elisha's book CRAWLING. And let's be honest, I am not sure Elisha knew it, but he probably really did want to be a Dad. Deep down inside (come on, why else would he, ironically, illustrate children's books?).

As much as I read (and write) mom lit, I thought I had the whole parenting psyche down. But Elisha proved me wrong. His perspective on the father side of parenting--diapers, breastfeeding, sharing his wife, building cribs, sharing his morning walks, breaking his routines, and well--everything called fathering is absolutely enchanting. Enchanting in that ever so-truthful it hurts sorta way. In fact, Cooper is so honest in these essays it almost hurts to read them. He admits rightfully, about how he was clueless and at the same time enchanted by his daughter. About how he and his wife had favorite outfits for his daughter--and the moment his wife left the house, he changed the clothes.

The essays are arranged in order--from birth to 12 months of the first year of parenthood for Elisha, his wife, and new little daughter Zoe. The essays are definitely from the heart. Earth shatteringly honest. And one of the freshest prose I've read this year. I was chuckling. Crying. Shaking my head in recognition in almost every chapter. And at the same time shaking my head in disbelief. Not that Elisha said anything that wasn't true--far from it! He said what was all to real no matter what side of the parenting is yours.

So pick up a copy today--you'll remember your child's first years like yesterday. Or maybe it is just me, I'm starting all over with number 2 right now. And this grasps all those emotions and feelings exactly! And let's be honest, what woman doesn't swoon over a man that has eyes for his child?

Exactly. So, here's the linkage for more Elisha Cooper and CRAWLING:

- Elisha Cooper's Official Web Site
- Buy CRAWLING here from Amazon
- Random House's Browse and Search Inside the Book Site

* This post and review is brought to you by the mom's at Mom Central. Love them! They give me free books for review. I get a small Amazon gift certificate. Woo hoo! Gotta love great books!

Labels: blog tour, books, parenting, reviews

12:06 AM | Permalink | 0 comments

[Nope, this post isn't about my first day(s) back at work. Those are incoming, because as always I have something to share about them. Just know I am managing. Exhausted. And juggling a kid that doesn't seem to want to sleep anymore even when lying next to me. But, I am making it this week.]

The folks over at Mom Central have asked for my opinion again (oh, oh!)--and as always I am more than willing to give it. This time it is about Jump Start World Software. We've had Jump Start World Advanced Preschool and in our house for about a year. The Kiddo loves it. In fact, he will just play the music tracks from the game and start singing them on his own most of the time. Which bring me to why we purchased it (at least initially) for him--it works on Apple/Mac computers. Yep, we are mostly a Mac house. And this software boasts its compatibility. So playing those music tracks was easy--iTunes. Now with the pre-populated 10 songs or so, my kid's started his own music library (awww, he grows so fast)!

So, when Mom Central offered to send me Jump Start World 1st Grade--I was jiggy with it. The Kiddo would love to jump into a new world of games (he's got a game collection you know! I mean, how could he not--we are a house of 3 laptops and 2 desktops. None of which are my work machine, but I digress). Only when it arrived I realized the one, ity bity problem--it's PC only software. See the above paragraph--the machine he uses for his games is a Mac. Sigh.

Now, we do have a PC in the house. We have 2 really--but one is just a server in our basement (it's ancient, but can hold files just fine). Another that sits unused in the extra bedroom just in case we just can't use a Mac for something. And I guess this is the first time it is going to be used in a while! (Seriously, he did have 1 or 2 other PC only games we loaded for him on this machine, but we typically by Mac games for him. Which he likes, because then he can play them in his room. That's right, he has his own computer).

And this software didn't disappoint--as I didn't expect it to with our previous experience with the Preschool version. The Kiddo is just a tad bit young for the games, he still had fun. And in fact did quite well at the "levels" (as he calls them). I'll keep the software on the PC for a while in case he wants to venture some more through the 1st grade game--because as with other reviewers of the software, i have no qualms about letting him jump ahead. And as you can tell--no qualms about him using a computer to learn new skills. If you've seen him click around on the Noggin, Nickelodeon, Disney, and Lego web sites--well, you'll know he's quite on his way to being a computer super genius (snicker here).

Also, we're pretty smart parents. We have parental controls on the computer in his room. Not only is it a modest iMac G3 relic, it also won't connect to the Internet unless we've approved the website. And he can't install a thing. Or print anything. Or well do anything that we won't know about. I am all about teaching him responsibility, and this is just the start!

Labels: children's games, computer, reviews

7:07 AM | Permalink | 1 comments

Not too long ago I reviewed The Dangerous Book For Boys by Conn and Hal Iggulden (in fact if you are curious, that review is here). And this is its sister book, sorta. It's The Daring Book for Girls by Andrea J. Buchanan and Miriam Peskowitz. And in fact, both of these women are behind my favorite place on the web MotherTalk. Not only have Andrea and Miriam allowed me through MotherTalk review many of the books you read about here, but well, then insisted that this book get created for girls. Mostly because of the out-pouring of comments on The Dangerous Book for Boys tour from women wanting the same sort of book for their daughters. And now being a mom to a girl too--well, I couldn't agree more!

In that first review, I told a long-winded memory about all the things I had learned from my Dad--a man who never had a son. He taught me so many things--how to tell the age of a tree. How to fish for Brooke Trout, Salmon, Pike, and Walleye. We also stared for hours at the various cloud formations, learned to tell the difference between types of trees by their leaves and bark. Followed animal droppings on trails in the forest on camping trips. Learned how to throw free throws, throw a baseball, plant and care for apple trees. And not to mention tricks about math. Which leads very nicely into The Daring Book for Girls. You see, leafing through this book, I became that 8 year old girl again. Remembering. Feeling. Creating. It was a fantastic trip down memory lane. I remembered things I thought I'd long forgotten.

There's palm reading (come on! who didn't want to know the future of your life?), Chinese jump rope (Mississippi anyone?), playing cards (I was a Hearts fan myself), Sleep out details, Ghost stories, Light as a Feather, Thick as a Board (did I get that right?), Campfire stuff (songs, building fires, hiking), God's Eyes, Canoeing trips, Tree climbing, roller skating, friendship bracelets. And boys. Who could forget boys! (well, that is not true, there are quite a few boys I could do with forgetting, but you get the idea. As much as they were a mystery then, they are now!). Oh, and I can't forget changing a flat tire and Math Tricks (thanks Dad! I learned both of those from you!). Or, my favorite chapter in the whole book: Books That Will Change Your Life.

The girl classics have some of my favorites of all time: A Wrinkle in Time, Anne of Green Gables, Charlotte's Web, Harriet the Spy, Little Women, Matilda and Ramona. Oh, how I loved escaping my world into those stories. But it gets better--the chapter goes further to indulge me into even more memories of books and places I'd imagined I'd be-- ESPECIALLY Nancy Drew and Trixie Belden.

I had almost every book in both series. My family were avid garage salers. Not only did we have 1 - 2 garage sales every year while growing up, we ventured out on weekends to find others. And this is where my love affair with books began--since I was able to purchase almost every book I got my hands on. They were 25 cents-- and well, my mom never said no to a good book. So I started collecting.

I remember my collections so well--I just wish, years later I hadn't sold them myself. The bottom 4 shelves of our rec room in my parents home were filled with Trixie and Nancy. And not only did I have them all, but in hardcover. Can you imagine? And I read them all. More than once. And most of the time, during my 4 week camping trips in the summer. I was the girl with my head in book on the beach. Or on the picnic bench. That is, when I wasn't riding my bike through the campground. Of fishing, swimming, or hiking.

This section of the book almost had me in tears. Each of these books--24 years later--still hold a very special place in my heart. So much so, I'm off to re-read them. To find the simple joys that brought me to them in the first place. In fact, it will be my personal gift for my daughter, her very first library (well once she hits about 8 years old). I can't wait for her to find herself in all of these books like I did (and don't you worry--my son who will be 5 in 2 weeks. I'm thinking there are a handful of books he might like too in a few years. What do you think?). And I want to share with both my children my love of books. What better way than to start with some classics.

Anyway, please check out this book. If not for a trip down memory lane, but to pick up some new tricks of the trade that don't rely on electronic gadgets and text messaging (yes, I am a self-confessed gadget geek, but we all need a little down time).

If my blabbering didn't entice you, maybe the official blurb will:

For every girl with an independent spirit, here is the guide to everything from school yard games to great women in history! The Daring Book for Girls is the essential manual for everything that girls need to know—and that doesn't mean sewing buttonholes! Whether readers consider themselves girly-girls, brainiacs, athletes, or a little bit of everything, this book is the girl's invitation to 21st century adventure.

Please--really--take a look at all these spots on the web. They are absolutely stunning. And fun. And so true to the Daring Girls' book, that you just can't miss them:

- Official Daring Book for Girls Website
- The official Daring Girls Blog where other fun tidbits are shared
- Daring Girl Extras! These include information about the badges (and downloadable forms), Passports to Adventures, information about the Daring Girl Anthem... just check it out!
- The Daring Girl Video
- The Today Show interview
- Andrea Buchanan's official web site
- Miriam Peskowitz's official web site
- Alexis Seabrook (the illustrator's) official web site

And, oh, I won't forget, the Amazon link to buy the book here. Please buy it. For Daring Girls Everywhere!

* This post is brought to you by MotherTalk. I get free books, write a review, and then receive a small gift certificate for the gesture.

Labels: blog tour, books, children's books, MotherTalk, reviews

12:18 PM | Permalink | 0 comments

Haven't found a good book for the back-to-school madness yet? Well, do I have a book for you! It's today's blog tour book, DANGEROUS ADMISSIONS: Secrets of a Closet Slueth by Jane O'Connor.

There are a few reasons why I am touting this book as a fabulous fall read--but mostly it is because the main character Miranda "Rannie" Bookman was so down to earth. And funny. And not for one iota attempting to become an crime investigator. In fact, she completely falls into this role in the book because she is a mother that is trying to protect her son. It makes for a fantastic believeable read that you really shouldn't miss.

Beyond Rannie, there are a whole cast of loveable characters. Particularly her son Nate, the girl of his dreams Olivia and then some "popular" but viscious high school friends The Lilies (Lily B. and Lily G) and Elliot (think Heathers and you'll get their sarcastic wit). Jane completely grabbed their adolescence and ran with it. In fact, I grew up in an area far from New York City but, the insecurities of that age are universal and Jane didn't miss one of them. Even with the teenagers in families that have a bit of money to throw around.

And again, Rannie. I love her. Not only is she believable in the role as of mother, well, she's a person. With a past. And it haunts her and we, as readers, believe every ounce of it. And I mean not only her divorce, but sex life. And she doesn't hide her premiscuous past. That being said, there is a steamy love interest, definitely some spicy sces, and a reunion of sorts with an ex-husband. How fun is that?

Honsetly, I loved the book. It was fun, funky, believeable and had so many plot twists and turns... well, it kept me reading for two whole days. Here's the official blurb (but please stick around, an interview with Jane O'Connor herself will follow):

Miranda "Rannie" Bookman—43, divorced mother of two, with a recent love life consisting of a long string of embarrassingly brief encounters—is beginning to feel like a dangling participle: connected to nothing. Her career as a copyeditor is down the toilet (she makes one little slip—a missing "l" from the last word in the title of the Nancy Drew classic The Secret of the Old Clock—and suddenly she's Publishing Enemy #1!), so she's been forced to take any gig she can get. And that means giving tours at the Chapel School, the ultra-exclusive, ultra-expensive, private academy that her children attend. Certainly not the most interesting of employments . . . at least until someone stumbles across the dead body of the Director of College Admissions.

Investigating a murder was never in her job description, but with her soon-to-be-college-bound boy Nate a prime suspect, Rannie has little choice. Besides, who better to dot all the "i"s and cross all the "t"s than a self-proclaimed "language cop"? Her diligence might even lead her to a brand-new love. Or to a killer. Or to another corpse—hopefully not her own.

Isn't that a hook that grabs you? Really, they had me at the missing "l" in the Nancy Drew title.

Now if that blurb doesn't grab you enough, please join me in welcoming Jane to the blog! She was wonderfully kind to answer a few questions for me--and after you read them you will agree--that will completely have you convinced you need to go out and grab yourself this book (and her next one).

Hi Jane! It is such a pleasure to have you here! I am so glad to have had a chance to read you first adult novel DANGEROUS ADMISSIONS! It's smart, fun, fast, fall read... that had you guessing until the end. My favorite part (aside from a copyeditor that had to correct grammar throughout), is that Rannie doesn't intend from the beginning to be a detective. Nope, she's just a concerned mother. That little detail definitely made her character believable and down-to-earth.

But let me not waste too much of your time, on to the interview questions!

1. First, an obvious question, with all of your success writing the FANCY NANCY children's book series, why an adult fiction novel? Why now?

The truth is I started writing Dangerous Admissions before the first Fancy Nancy book. I am an incredibly slow writer so it took me eons to finish the mystery. I sent it to agents right at the same time the first FN hit stores in December 05.>

2. Your main character, Rannie has at least one trait of yours--her eye (or ear) for grammar since you both share a background in editing. What other traits do you and Rannie share? And could you see yourself, if put in the same situation as Rannie, as a closet sleuth? Would finding the detail(s) that everyone else missed be your advantage over others?

Yes, like Rannie, I love language and words (actually, Fancy Nancy is a vocab devotee too!) Mistakes do jump out at me and often in weird situations. Last weekend my family paid a yearly visit to the cemetery to say 'hi' to our loved ones and I noticed that there was a hyphen missing on my uncle's headstone. It said: Died in his seventy seventh year. It bothered me -- of course, everybody else thinks I'm crazy.


3. Being a writer myself, I am always fascinated by the whys and hows of the book ideas (the stories behind the stories). So would you mind sharing with us how you came up with the idea for DANGEROUS ADMISSIONS? What was the spark that started this particular story?

When our sons had to apply to college, my husband and I both went loco (there, I said it…not ‘stressed out’ or ‘anxious’ but truly ‘loco’). We acted as if we were the ones waiting for the proverbial fat envelopes. Come acceptance day in early April, I remember that the mail was all I thought about. (This was pre- the day when kids can log on and find out if they’re in.) And almost as soon as we dropped our younger son off at his freshman dorm, the title for a book – Dangerous Admissions – popped into my head. It would revolve around the nasty doings at a high-pressure Manhattan private school on the Upper West Side, not all that different from the one both our sons attended for the full K-12 ride. Although the college guidance counselor at our kids’ school was an absolutely great guy, I planned on killing off his fictional counterpart in the first chapter. I’d never written an adult novel; never written a mystery; never even read mysteries. (I now do and I just finished Michael Chabon’s “The Yiddish Detectives’ Union which is amazing – funny and utterly original.)

I stopped working as a fulltime editor at Penguin; took Wednesdays and Thursdays (non-weekend and consecutive) as my days home for writing; took three writing classes over the next two years; and then was part of a writers’ group with three women novelists – Nina Solomon (Single Wife is her first novel and wonderful) and Pamela Jackson (Becoming the Butlers, very funny but hard to find now) and Yona Zeldis McDonough (her last novel was In Dahlia’s Wake).

It took me more than three years to finish Dangerous Admissions. It was hardest, most frustrating, but ultimately most satisfying piece of writing I’ve ever done. The stories for my children’s books often come to me in a flash – that’s how it is with the Fancy Nancy books. But I had to push the plot of the mystery every step of the way. I kind of hate authors who say that they just sit at the computers and let their characters speak to them. I anguish over every sentence…I think that’s one of the drawbacks of being an editor; I edit and re-edit the same paragraph until I become snow-blind and can’t tell whether my last version is better, worse or basically the same as the first.

I am blessed – or cursed – with a bulldog nature. When I decide to do something, I sink my teeth in and don’t let go. So I eventually did finish the book and I’m still startled to see that it is a physical object sitting in bookstores. And if you are wondering whether it’s easier writing the follow-up, the answer is yes but really only infinitesimally so.

4. Rannie and her A-list of supporting characters in this book (Nate, Olivia, Tim, Elliot, The Lilies, David, Daisy, Mary, Peter, Grant, etc.) seem prime for another book--do you see this book as part of a series? If yes, what can we expect for the next book? If not, will it be hard for you to "let these characters go?" I ask, because of course, as with any attached reader, well, I am having a hard time letting go!

I’m already slaving away on the second with Rannie et al. She’s copyediting the latest tell-all by a reclusive writer of snarky, trash-and-burn celebrity bios…when Rannie comes to pick up the ms, however, she finds the writer (I’m still fiddling with her name) tied to her bed and strangled – with an Hermes scarf. A lot of the book involves a famous art collection and I am getting to do a lot of interesting research. (In my next life, I am going to be an art historian, concentrating on Flemish 15th century stuff.

5. Lastly (because I ask all my visiting authors), if you could have any super power, what would it be? For example, this week for me, it would be an extra hand/arm (or two). Seriously. With a new baby in tow, an extra hand would give me the extra reach to fix dinner for the family while holding the baby. How about you-- super power of your dreams and why?

Okay, a little preface is required: What I’d like most is to be able to spend time (say, an hour or so) with each of my boys at different stages of their babyhood and childhood – to be able to hold them again and smell that delicious baby smell, to hear what they sounded like at 3 or 7, to be walking down the street and have a small hand in mine. I think we forget so quickly what a child was really, really like so my superpower would be to teleport in time but only over the past 28 years. I don’t have to go back to Elizabethan England or meet Cleopatra. The superpower would be strictly for a mother thing.

Thanks Jane! Lovely adult novel debut! You have me hooked. Can't wait to read more of your work. Just make sure bring back the down to earth quirky characters. Please.

And did you not just love her? I mean, did you READ that super power wish? Because right now, it is making me (double) cherish the little every day things with my son and daughter (the little hand in mine thing killed me. Utterly).

Jane, if I had a way to bottle up that baby smell and send it to you--you'd have it over-nighted pronto! I have a 5-week-old full of smell for the taking.

Anyway, please take some time and visit Jane online (see below) and go buy the book. It is was fun and absolutely great for this time of year!

• Buy it on Amazon here
• Visit Jane O'Connor's web site
• Or better yet, take a little sneak peak inside DANGEROUS ADMISSIONS

Labels: blog tour, books, interview, reviews

12:02 PM | Permalink | 0 comments

This post was written (verbatim) by The Kiddo. Since today we are reviewing the BOB Books series (or at least the first 12 of the series)--BOB BOOKS: Set 1, For Beginning Readers.

Bob books are a step-by-step approach to reading. Taking a small book by book approach that guides your children through the beginnings of reading. Each book (or more accurately, level) addresses a certain stage in reading development. The best part, however, is that each book adds an additional 4 sounds (or so) of learning. A nice chunk to get them to focus--and then when they finish the book, get immediate success and a feeling of accomplishment.

And it works. Now, let me introduce The Kiddo, for his official review! He's four years old (five in November). Never had any formal reading techniques taught to him yet (other than the alphabet letters and sounds). Been in preschool for a couple of years--and is basically at the stage where he knows his alphabet and is interested in reading (at least to the amount that he asks ME to read him "what things say" throughout our day). So without further ado, here's what he has to say:

Hi Everyone.

Did Mom tell you that she got me books?

(Yes, honey, I told them that already)

Oh. Well, first I like that the books are small. And red. And did you know that Mat, the man in the book, that is like my Dad.

(Aren't you going to tell them anything else?)

Yes Mom. I'm thinking about how to say that I read the book with some help.

(I think you just told them.)

No I didn't. I was just thinking.

(Okay. But let's hurry it up okay? I want to tell them how well you are doing at reading.)

I know. I showed Grandma how I read the first 3 books this past weekend. Remember?

(Yep! You did! I listened the entire time.)

Grandma helped me too. And then I wanted to keep reading. But we had to go to the restaurant. But I took the books with me in the car.

(Kiddo? Are you done?... Where are you going?)

To find the books. I want to read the books to my Superman figure.

Well, um, there you have it. From the mouths of babes. Sorta.

The truth of the matter is this. I opened the package with the books in it. Immediately The Kiddo wanted to see what I had in my hands. We sat at the kitchen table and started reading. Straight through to book 3 (in the beginner series). We sounded out words. Talked about pictures. Studied letters. Sounded out more words. But in the end, when The Kiddo saw he had read an entire book by himself, he was proud. And wanted to read more books. And then another. And I then I had to eventually stop him because he became frustrated. Or--from a mother's point of view- overwhelmed. It isn't like he'd ever had this much information thrown at him in one punch before... so a good ole break until dinner did him well.

Then, when Dad got home? Yep, you guessed it. He read him the first 3 books ALL BY HIMSELF. To show off. And this continued for an entire week. Each day, adding on another book or two until he'd finished the entire box set.

The size of the books (roughly, what... 5 inches by 5 inches and maybe 8 pages long) are perfect for little hands. The illustrations? Fun, whimsical, and definitely something children can relate to. The Kiddo draws Mat and Sam for me all the time now. And then the educational value? Well, for a kid that hadn't known much about reading other then the letters names and the sounds they make? I'd say reading the first three books in the series right out of the gate is a pretty good indication. And we'll be buying the remaining 4 box sets (yep, with 12 books a piece) to keep up his interest. How can I pass up my chance at making reading fun for my kid?

Here's more BOB BOOKS resources so you can share this with you kids too:

• BOB BOOKS Website
• Fun Stuff for the kids with the main characters: Mat, Sam, Dot, and Cat
• Buy the first box set of BOB BOOKS from Amazon here.
• Learning Links

* This post is brought to you by MotherTalk. I get free books, write a review, and then receive a small gift certificate for the gesture.

Labels: blog tour, books, children's books, reviews

12:02 AM | Permalink | 0 comments

Welcome M.J. Rose, author of THE REINCARNATIONIST (and 9 other novels) to the blog! M.J. entered the author scene with the release of her first novel LIP SERVICE where she broke into the spicy, erotic romance genre. She followed that book with IN FIDELITY, FLESH TONES, SHEET MUSIC, and LYING IN BED. She also authored The Butterfield Institute Series and then her latest--and biggest departure from her earlier novels, THE REINCARNATIONIST.

So, for today's guest blog entry, M.J. answers why she wrote this book and what the original idea that sparked this book to be written.

When I was three years old, I told my great grandfather things about his childhood in Russia that there was simply no way I could have known.

He became convinced I was a reincarnation of someone in his past. And over time, after more incidents, my mother – a very sane and logical woman -- also came to believe it.

Reincarnation was an idea I grew up with that my mom and I talked about and researched together. For years, I wanted to write a novel about someone like my mother – who was sane and logical – who started out skeptical but came to believe in reincarnation. But I was afraid if I did people would think I was a “woo woo weirdo”.

I tried to start the book ten years ago after my mother died but I was too close to the subject and missed her too much to be able to explore it objectively. Every once in while the idea would start to pester me again but I still stayed away from it.

Then a few years ago on the exact anniversary of my mom’s death my niece, who was a toddler at the time, said some very curious things to me about my mother and I – things she really couldn’t have known -- and the pestering became an obsession.

Josh Ryder, the main character has my mom’s initials, her spirit and her curiosity and like her, he’s a photographer. But there the similarities end.

When Josh starts having flashbacks that simply can’t be explained any other way except as possible reincarnation memories he goes to New York to study with Dr. Malachai Samuels -- a scientist and Reincarnationist who works with children helping them deal with past life memories.

In the process Josh gets caught up in the search for ancient memory tools that may or may not physically enable people to reach back and discover who they were and who they are.

Rather than me tell you anymore about it, let me pass on what a wonderful author, New York Times Bestseller Douglas Preston, says about it:

“The Reincarnationist by M.J. Rose has got to be one of the most original and exciting novels I’ve read in a long time, with a premise so delicious I’m sick with envy I didn’t think of it myself. The novel’s exhilarating story sweeps the reader across the centuries, from ancient Rome to the present day, with stops in between. It will open your mind to some of the incredible mysteries of the past and the greatest secrets of existence. The Reincarnationist is more than a page-turner—it’s a page-burner. Don’t miss it.”

The book has garnered stars from both Publisher’s Weekly, Library Journal and is a BookSense pick for September. I think of all my books, this is the one my mom would be the most proud of which is fitting since it’s really the one she inspired.

Please visit my website: www.mjrose.com for an excerpt, an interview with me about the book, a booktrailer and more.

And to not leave you hanging, here's direct links to all of M.J.'s fabulous resources on the web:

M.J. Rose's official website
Read an Excerpt from THE REINCARNATIONIST
Watch an Interview
Watch a booktrailer
Listen to the BookExpo Podcast interview
Read M.J. blog devoted the novel's fascinating subject matter.
Buy the Book
Reading Group Guide

Labels: author, blog tour, books, guests, interview, reviews

4:21 PM | Permalink | 0 comments

"THE REINCARNATIONIST is equal parts modern-day thriller, historical fiction and love story. With one foot in present-day Rome and New York and another in Rome some 1,600 years ago, my story is about two worlds consumed by the fires of intrigue and passion." -- M. J. Rose

I couldn't say it better myself. M. J. Rose hit the nail on the head when she describes her latest (9th) book release or THE REINCARNATIONIST. It is all of what she says and more. The bare bones of it all (and I mean that, there are archaeological digs, tombs, ancient ruins), is that it is a love story. A deep, insanely beautiful love story that spans centuries and keeps you turning the pages to try to piece it all together. But let me warn you, before you realize it, you'll be sucked into the suspense and the characters will grab a hold of your heart and won't let you go.

I finished reading the book two nights ago. At 2 a.m. And with a newborn in the house, you know what that means about staying up late and giving up my precious sleep. I am still thinking about the characters (past and present). Thinking of their lives. What that had to offer the world. Their predicaments. And then wondering, what my past lives were. How I lived them. If I knew about them now, how I might try to *right* the past. Or if I could.

Traditionally, I am not sure I would have picked up this book myself. Then again the cover art is gorgeous. And captivating. So much so, when I had visitors this weekend, a friend, one that isn't a huge "reader" grabbed a hold of the book and started reading. Fingering the cover, pages... asking what it was about. Reincarnation is something that peaked her interest. And well, the book that M.J. offered me to read and review? Well, it is going to be sent across the country (well North anyway) to my close friend. I know the book, this book, might actually bring her back to reading. The way a good book should. And me, when M.J. sent the back cover copy my way to consider reading... had me hooked too.

I don't want to give anything away. Really. The book is too good to spoil. So here is the official blurb for the book:

Photojournalist Josh Ryder survives a terrorist’s bomb, only to be haunted by near hallucinatory memories of a past life in Rome as a pagan priest whose dangerous congress with Sabina, one of the Vestal Virgins, poses a transgression so serious the lovers will face a certain death if exposed. Scents of jasmine and sandalwood and images of furtive liaisons and violence descend on Josh at will, pulling him to an ancient yet strangely familiar Roman burial chamber harboring the remains of a woman clutching a wooden box.

A trail of present-day murders takes us deeper into a labyrinth at whose heart lies the enigma of a collection of ancient gems or memory stones whose origins trace back to both ancient Egypt and India. The stones’ promise to "assist the wearer in reaching his next incarnation" sets the ancient and modern worlds on a collision course.

And then, of course, my interview with M.J. Rose herself! She was so kind to drop by and answer a few questions for us.


You must have spent hours researching this book--with all the references to ancient Rome, Italy, and well, reincarnation. Did you happen to travel to Rome at all in your research? How about an archaeological dig? If not, is that something you would want to do yourself one day?

I did go to Rome several times. It's an amazing city with modern times and ancient times side by side every where you look. And I did see some archaeological digs there in process although I didn't get to go on site and really get involved. But I'd love to. I've been absolutely fascinated with archaeology since I was a kid.

Of course, the title alone will suggest this question-- who do you think you were in past lives or who do you wish you could have shared lives with and why?

I've gone to a reincarnationist and tried to find out and am afraid its very unexciting. An Egyptian slave girl, a Roman soldier, a Pilgrim wife. I never thought of who I wish I was - but its a great question. I think I would have like to have been a great philosopher who lived to 90 and died in his or her sleep of natural causes.

What is the most interesting reincarnation story you have heard since writing the book? I am guessing now that you have this book out, many people have shared their theories and stories with you... I'd love to hear the most interesting.

At a booksigning a woman came up to me and told me she'd heard me earlier that morning and knew she had been my sister in New England in the late 1600's and we'd died of a pox. What is so astonishing is as you can tell from my earlier answer, i have reason to believe that i was there then. But that's nothing compared to the fact that the woman has a tiny white mark on the side of her nose in the same exact place I have one. What is the mark? For both of us the same answer. A chicken pox scar from childhood.

And lastly, just because I ask this of everyone, if you could have a superpower, what would it be and why?

I would like to be able to fly.

Oh, and M.J. is guest blogging over here later today (or tomorrow, depending on when I get the post up for reading). So, don't go too far away. She's got loads of background information on the how and why she wrote this book.

Here's some more fun links to keep you interested. If I haven't sold you on the book yet. But you should, really, go buy it. Totally worth the cash. It is such wonderful read. She'll have you up til 2 a.m. too. Trust me!

M.J. Rose's official website
Read an Excerpt
Watch an Interview
Watch a booktrailer
Listen to the BookExpo Podcast interview
Read M.J. blog devoted the novel's fascinating subject matter.
Buy the Book
Reading Group Guide

Labels: blog tour, books, interview, reviews

11:56 AM | Permalink | 0 comments

Remember the book review for DON'T MAKE A SCENE by Valerie Block we featured late in August? If not, go back and check it out, it's definitely a good read. I mean, how can you surpass a book about a 40 year old movie buff who's had a rough time dating, keeping an apartment, and suffering a mid-life almost career crisis?

If you read the review, you will also note I had discovered Valerie and her writing long before DON'T MAKE A SCENE arrived on the scene. And it delights me to have here here today! She's been kind enough to let me interview her... take a look!

Hi Valerie!

It is absolutely wonderful to have you join my blog for a day--and, let me add, read your latest book. Was a wonderful read, much like WAS IT SOMETHING SAID? (which I also enjoyed immensely). Not only could I not put DON'T MAKE A SCENE down, but, well, it kept me up half the night with its little bits of personality and surprise twists and turns. Who couldn't love Diane? I mean--she either has luck or she doesn't. Or maybe she doesn't really know what she has does she? Anyway, that brings me to the *real* reason I'm loving to have you visit my corner of the Internet, it's interview time! :-)

Q: I'm a huge fan of the back story of novels. The who, what, when, where, and why you wrote DON'T MAKE A SCENE. Can you share a bit of that process with me? What idea sparked the entire evolvement of the story? Was it the idea of Diane as a character that came first, or the situation that she is in?

A: I am a cinema addict from way back, and at some point, I noticed that I was thinking about the movies far more than I was actually going to the movies, and this surprised me. This got me thinking about how the movies shape and haunt us. I had a story that I wanted to tell, about a woman and a man who meet and -- unlike in the movies -- don’t just “click” instantly, and burst into song on public transportation. I thought it would be interesting to juxtapose this very mundane, anti-climactic story against whatever is glamorous about the movies, and it occurred to me that one of the characters could run a revival cinema. I figured that this would be the perfect excuse to see all my favorite old movies, during office hours, in the name of research. The book would be about what happens when the eternal allure of classic cinema collides with the daily indignities of contemporary life.

I started my daily screenings, and two things struck me immediately: first, almost anything that you do everyday, even if it’s pure pleasure, can become a bit of a chore. And second, although many films did stand the test of time, other films that were major works to me when I was younger, upon re-visitation, just didn’t stand up. I found that interesting, how certain films can define stages in your life. And I thought I would “lend” that situation to Diane, the cineaste, who by that time had become one of my main characters.

Q: What part of the book can you most identify with and why?

A: Diane’s predicament really resonated with me. I’ve been married for five years now, but for a very long time -- much longer than is generally recommended -- I was single. At the time I felt under siege from all sides, and I wanted to explore the idea that as a single woman, you have to be very well-defended just to get through your day without advice, criticism, pity, matchmaking services. And although I’d written about the absurdities of dating before (WAS IT SOMETHING I SAID?, SoHo Books, 1998), I discovered that I had more to say.

Q: You have a wide range of characters in this book-- from the 40 year old Diane, various high school cinema workers, Dorothy and Estelle (let's just say seniors), to men of various ages (depending on which date Diane is recapping), Vladimir, Javier... and with each of them you have nailed the age group and mannerisms to a tee. Was this something that you intentionally did while writing the book (trying to capture the ages and differences and then having age such a huge plot point in the book overall) or was it something that just came naturally while writing?

A: I try to get everything right! I want to “nail” the age, gender, race, religion, socio-economic group, political temperament, taste in film, books, clothing, etc.

But yes, you bring up a good point: age is an issue, in the book, and in life. My husband has a theory that we use age as a way of establishing an immediate hierarchy when we meet people for the first time, as in, “I am older than you, therefore, taller and more important, too.” Human beings for some reason need to know where they stand in the hierarchy, even if it’s just people standing around at a party. And people have different expectations of you depending on your age. The aging actresses in the book, Dorothy Vail and Estelle DeWinter, have the excuse that they are, or were, in the Business. But what about the rest of us? I think the current obsession with youth and youth culture, and the trend of using medical interventions to look more youthful is a kind of a First World collective mental illness.

Q: We all love movies (or I do). I am guessing with all the references you have throughout DON'T MAKE A SCENE that you are a movie buff yourself, like Diane. Is that true? Are you much like Diane and love some of the *older* movies better than current ones? Can you tell us your top 5 favorite movies?

A: I adore the movies. I wonder sometimes why I didn’t go into films instead of books, but there seemed to be so many barriers to entry when I was starting out as a writer. It also seemed like the writer was the smallest person in a film production, and I was not certain that I had what it took to direct. I thought it would be really frustrating to cede control of my work to someone else.

It was a joy to do the research for this book. I love good movies, no matter when or where they were made. My husband is always making fun of me for dragging him to Czech movies with Polish subtitles. That’s a joke, but barely.

Top five favorite movies? Five? I only get five? How about ten? Here’s a list, and it’s in no particular order. You can see that I have some favorites that are old, and some favorites that are quite current:

All About Eve (Joseph L. Mankiewicz, 1950)
The Man Who Loved Women (François Truffaut, 1977)
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter … and Spring (Kim Ki-duk, 2003)
The Lives of Others (Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck, 2006)
Rear Window (Alfred Hitchcock, 1955)
Raise the Red Lantern (Zhang Yimou, 1991)
Ninotchka (Ernst Lubitsch,1939)
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (Ang Lee, 2000)
A Touch of Class (Melvin Frank, 1972)
West Side Story (Jerome Robbins and Robert Wise, 1961)

Q: And, I ask this of all the authors that visit my site because it is just generally fun, if you could have any superpower, what would it be? Me, as I've said before, definitely MORE time. I'd love to control how much time I have (or stop it), so I could take care of the million things I need to get to each day.

A: If I could have any superpower, I think I’d want the ability to control noise, as I seem to be acutely sensitive to it, and am paralyzed with annoyance on trains, in restaurants and even libraries, where people seem to feel it’s their right to yak on their cell phones with impunity and without volume control. Also: there’s a TV on, everywhere you go. I would like to be able to press mute on the world from time to time.

Thank you Valerie for your time and generosity of stopping by! I always love a good chat with an author and this is no exception. Happy writing and can't wait to read your next book!

Labels: author, blog tour, books, interview, reviews

9:44 AM | Permalink | 0 comments

I'm a parent (duh!). And if you are a parent and haven't heard of Elizabeth Pantley... well, you are missing out on some valuable, gentle, parenting advice.

Now I know what you are thinking. Another parental advice book? Another book about telling me how I am doing this whole sleep/eating/discipline/learning thing wrong (or right)? Well, not really. Elizabeth, for one, is a parent. Yep, 4 kids. And you know what, she writes from experience. And her experiences, are very much like what you or I have experienced. From those, she then offers advice--mom-to-mom (parent-to-parent) about how to deal with children from infants on up.

I first heard of Elizabeth way back when my Kiddo was about 6 months old. He loved to sleep in our bed. Nurse some more and then sleep back in our bed. And then wake up and want to be back in our bed. Every hour and a half all night long. I think I had 20 minutes of sleep time between feedings and holdings and I was on the edge of losing it. And wondering where I had gone wrong in my young parenting skills. Seriously. I was thinking that this parenting thing was for the birds, and I was going to throw in the towel about my child EVER spending one night in his own bedroom. Hell, I was ready to deal with it until he was 18 years old if I had to--just give me a full night of sleep (or at least 4 hours)!

That is exactly when I landed upon Elizabeth's first book, THE NO CRY SLEEP SOLUTION, Gentle Ways to Help Your Baby Sleep Through the Night. The book saved my life. I'm not going to lie to you and tell you that it solved every sleep issue The Kiddo (and I) had, but it did solve the biggest of the issues. And it definitely made me feel better about my parenting choices. Want to know why? Elizabeth's voice, concern, honestly--and well basic understanding of what I wanted to do as a parent. Which brings me to today's review. Her latest treasure of a book-- THE NO-CRY DISCIPLINE SOLUTION, Gentle Ways to Encourage Good Behavior Without Whining, Tantrums & Tears.

As with her first book, this one also takes the GENTLE approach. The guidance, kind, and patient approach to working with one's child to change a behavior. THE reason I love Elizabeth's books so much. And what perfect timing--my son had joined the ranks of a 4-year old. Past infant, past toddler, and almost school age!

Before I dig into the content, let's talk a little about research. Elizabeth is relentless--in that she works with what she calls "test mommies and daddies." These are a core group of parents that she talks with, surveys, provides concrete methods to test, and then surveys again, e-mails/calls, communications, and basically tests every little suggestion she writes about. You know, to see if it works. And this book is no different. In fact, she had over 200 families in this round, across the world. The whole 202 girl count versus 209 boys, twins, toddlers, preschoolers, school aged, you name it. And guess what, she knows them all intimately by name. And that is why I, again, love the books. She takes the successes (and difficulties) personally and it show is the way she writes her books.

What did I love most about the NO-CRY DISCIPLINE BOOK? A lot. Here's a smidgen:

• Father/Mother-Speak call outs. Love these! They are "real" quotes from dads and moms about their experiences. You know the ones--quotes we find our heads shaking yes (or no) to because we relate on so many levels we could say them ourselves.
  
  
• The idea to look at the BIG picture of raising a child, not all the details, trivial matters, and well all the day to day stuff. This is all over in the book. The idea that what we do today will in turn help us tomorrow. And that all the details of day to day life that might stress us out, well, that is normal, but not what we should focus on.
  
  
• REAL solutions, I can take away from the book and bring into my real life and USE. Whether it is a suggestion to make play time out of chores, diaper changes, or behavioral talk back-or actual solutions to sleepiness and constant crankiness. And these aren't just one time, one possible solutions--these are a bunch of options to choose from.
  
  
• Reminders. Charts. Key Points. Worksheets. Surveys. All the concrete stuff that I will pick up again and again. Not that I am going to keep this book on the bedside table forever (then again with a newborn in the house, I might need that much constant reminding)--but it is definitely something I will refer back to. Or recommend to friends. The information, though sometimes common sense, is well informed and definitely something when thrown into parenthood (and bad days) that one needs to remember and freshen up on after a long day of parenting work.
  
  
• A fresh perspective on Anger. Yep. We all deal with it as parents. Whether we are really truly angry with our child (it happens), or more commonly, when we are angry about something else and it gets directed at your child (admit it, we've all done this. Unfortunately). There is a whole section on this that I read (Part 3, A Peaceful Home: Staying Calm and Avoiding Anger). And reread. And found myself nodding. Tearful. And completely understanding that I have as much a part of this anger thing as my Kiddo does.
  

The book is wonderful. And it doesn't have to be read cover to cover (or in order), just placed on your shelf and read when you have a moment. Or a tough day. Or when you want to know why you may have over-reacted when Billy spilled chocolate milk on the carpet. Or, well, when you are in the throws of toddler hood.

I know, I know. You are a parent and don't have a lot of time to read. But guess what? This book is broken into easy to read, FAST sections. Take a look at the table of contents, find what is relevant to you and READ it. 15 minutes of time (at most). I swear. It will be well worth you time. Elizabeth's easy to read, down to earth advice will hit home. And make you think you have known her and her family since--well, forever. And she's a girlfriend sharing a parent secret you never knew.

Want to know more?
- Buy the book here at Amazon.
- Visit Elizabeth Pantley's web site (FULL of information, additional materials, excerpts, etc for ALL her books).
- Read the following excerpts from the book:

» Hitting, Kicking, Biting and Hair Pulling
» Interrupting
» Tantrums, Fussing and Whining
» What Triggers Your Anger?
» Banish Common Parenting Myths

- Read Elizabeth's Bio here.
- Need Advice about sleeping patterns of your children, discipline, or baby care? She's got an entire portion of her web site dedicated to helping you. Check it out here.
- You can even join her mailing lists! She's got many, chalked full of information (really). See what's available and how you can sign up here.

Hope you enjoy the book as much as I do. And, well, see you in the parenthood universe. We're in it together!

* Elizabeth herself asked me if I wanted to get a free copy of her book to review. Of course, I said yes! I'd already purchased her first book way back when (3 years ago or so)... and expected the same down to earth and REAL advice in this book. I was right. And clearly wanted to share my excitement about her book with all of you too! And Elizabeth is just as kind in person (well via e-mail) as she is in the book.

Labels: blog tour, books, motherhood, parenting, reviews

10:54 AM | Permalink | 1 comments

Oh this pregnancy is killing my reading time. Seriously. I don't seem to have enough hours in the day to wrap up work projects AND get in some rest and relaxation before Kid #2 arrives to stir up the routine a bit. But wait! I did find some time!

That's right, I took some time out this last week to read DON'T MAKE A SCENE by Valerie Block. And I wasn't disappointed--and I didn't expect to be. See, I read Valerie a while back when I picked up her previous (and first) novel WAS IT SOMETHING I SAID? In fact, that book still sits on my book shelf today. So, being asked to read her most recent endeavor and blog about it? Well, it is dreamy (for an author and lover of books).

So to set the scene (staying in character with the book, topic, title), here's the official blurb:

Diane Kurasik has seen all the classic films at the Greenwich Village revival theater she runs. Still single in a world of couples, Diane is reminded daily of how her life has not conformed to script. When she receives an eviction notice on the eve of her 40th birthday, her life is upended. In the pursuit of both the elusive apartment and a leading man, she tangles with a likely candidate who doesn’t want the role, and gains an unexpected admirer who doesn’t fit the profile. What would Ingrid Bergman do?

The book delivers on all accounts. Diane is mysterious, misguided, tainted, scarred, sensitive, a bit naive, and well--out there. Is she like you and me? Maybe like you. Not too much like me. But then, would she be? I am married and expected my second child. Regardless she's definitely a likable and lovable character. One in which you share her joy at finding apartments, and then crushed (as she is) when she loses them. We understand her crazy relationships with her parents and sisters (hell, my sister judges me!). And friends that when you really sit down and think about, aren't that close to you at all are they?

And yes, then there are the chronicles of dates. Men. And romantic flailings. As much as Diane is trying to find love and romance--the book is more about just being okay with yourself and position in life. No matter what others in your life say about how you are living it. And believe me when I tell you--Diane has some "friends" and co-workers that definitely have opinions. Some of my favorites are Dorothy and Estelle (old Hollywood starlets in their old right). And then there are the old boyfriends that pop in. Her boss. The teenagers she managers. And Paul. Chris. And of course one of the main love interests. Vladimir.

Again, this book isn't all about romance. And even though you get a fair share of a romp or two in the pages, the book really is about growth. On all the main characters parts. Vladimir is struggling to accept his life. Diane hers. Then there are complications. Construction. Eviction. Job security. Relationships. It's a book chalked full of story. Plot. And growing up.

Want more info? This will be easy. Check out the following:
- Valerie Block's Website
- An interview at Mary Castillo's blog with Valerie (she's also a long time fan of Valerie's)
- Another interview about the book
- Purchase the book at Amazon here
- Read an excerpt
- Reader's Guide (coming soon...)

But most of all, take a bite out of this book. It is not only chalked with cinema history it really is a coming of age story of a 40 year old woman. And hell, it's a damn good read with depth and a lot of character.

Labels: blog tour, books, reviews

9:27 PM | Permalink | 0 comments

It's lovely blog tour time! We have a nice, light, fun read with Alisa Kwitney's FLIRTING IN CARS--and it was a book that delivered exactly what the cover ordered--a little hope, humor, sensitivity, and of course romance. Who could ask for anything more late in the summer?

First and foremost the book focuses on the relationship of Zoe Goren and her daughter Maya. Because that is the reason Zoe is ripped from her favorite place of all time--the city. She's a single mom looking out for her daughter (and her daughter's education with dyslexia) so they head from middle of the city, to smack dab into the country. But not without some difficulty. And when I say difficulty, culture shock is only half of it. Zoe can't drive. Oh and wild animals? Yeah, not so friendly when they are in your house. Even if you do have a cat around.

This book delivered a lot of punch for its 323 pages. I fell in love with Zoe. Her honesty, bluntness, and to-hell-with-you attitude (listen, this woman? Yeah, she knows what she wants and goes after it. No excuses made). And her daughter Maya. Well, I think every woman can identify with her self-confidence issues. I mean who likes to be 13 and not fit in? No one. Then suddenly you find yourself fitting in somewhere... well it can only be called sweetness. And this is where the book thrives. Mother/daughter relationships. Parenting, and how we make some tough choices sometimes, that can hinder dreams and hopes we thought we had. It's all there, wrapped in this great relationship of a hard-working, dedicated mom and her daughter (I can only hope for so much with my soon-to-be-born daughter).

But I am forgetting something. The whole Out-of-City aspect of the book! Hey, I did the opposite. I moved from the rural Upper Peninsula of Michigan and landed myself in Chicago. Sure it was the 'Burbs, but for anyone that has done that little conversion. It's city. It took me 2 years to feel comfortable roaming the skyscraper, cement clad streets on my own. Now, I'm sad to not be in the concrete regularly. Kwitney also does a good job at creating the isolation that one feels by feeling like an outsider in a small (or big) town. Everything is so unfamiliar--foreign even. And coming from a small town, her whole feelings of being the outsider? Not such a stretch. I feel like that when I go home now. Once you leave the rural... well, it's hard going back. And Zoe had never been there (or wanted to go there) in the first place.

Oh--but does she have a surprise in store for her. First there is Mack (he's the romantic interest). Then there is Frances and Gretchen--also transplanted city folk--that, well, help Zoe's isolation issues. And of course a slew of other characters. They keep the country interesting and sorta sway Zoe away from her beloved city. Or at least as much as they can.

And this might be my only complaint with the book. The transition. It takes a BUNCH longer than a year to realize the country/city can work for anyone, you just need to find your place. Hell, it's taken me 10 years to finally find the common ground that works from me (I am 40 minutes from the city. And that is just fine by me). Less than a year and Zoe's completely happy with her beginning driver status, found Mack, and well given her career a face lift? A little like a sitcom. At least in novel form.

But please, don't let that deter you. The characters here are fun, playful, and definitely what keep you reading. The alternating points of view of Zoe and Mack are fun. Sexy. Hot. And well... just read the book. Let's just say, the sex is good (oops, sorry, a bit of a spoiler there). And the relationships all around are believable and definitely make for a wonderfully witty adventure that will make you beg to see where these characters DO land in about 5 years. I mean does Zoe land in the country forever?

Here's all the goods about the book, the author, the story, and of course the info to purchase it yourself (which I encourage you to do):

• Alisa Kwitney's Web site
• Backstory for the book
• Author’s Wikipedia entry
• Amazon link to purchase FLIRTING IN CARS

Happy late summer reading everyone! Really, what a better way to wind down summer?

* As always, this post is brought to you by the lovely women at MotherTalk. I get a free book and small gift certificate for my time to read and review. I'm in it for the books people. I love the books. And of course supporting a fellow author!

Labels: blog tour, books, reviews

6:41 AM | Permalink | 0 comments

Speaking of children and parenthood and all things motherly (I *am* in that state of mind people. 8 months pregnant can do it to you)--it's blog tour time again thanks to the lovely ladies at MotherTalk. And today's pick, THE OTHER MOTHER by Gwendolen Gross hits a bunch of emotional buttons for me.

First, let me say, the book? Well it is fabulously written. Two women, different backgrounds, extremely different goals, neighbors, and both mothers. One quite experienced. The other new to the playground. And that is just the beginning. Gwendolen dives into the hearts and minds of the two women exposing fears, dreams, and a bit of this little thing we call "mommy wars." What are these wars you ask? It is basically the moms that work and the moms that don't. Are the sides at war? The media would like you to think so. And yep some women in ferocious circles that DO get caught up in it and judge each other's choices. But what I think is even worse is the fact that WE do it to ourselves.

Case in point, me with the Kiddo. I was raised by a mother who stayed at home and then became Miss Career Woman of the World. And what did she ingrain in my head? You will work. You will NOT depend on a man. You will be able to take care of yourself (and really, don't read into any of those statements too much. My dad? Fabulous man. Took care of her and our family. No matter what. And never, once, pressured my mom to take on a job. Ever. So call it insecurity on my mom's part. Or the fact that she was looking for her daughters. Either way, I was career. 120%). And so began my life in womanhood.

Of course marriage did follow after college, and a pretty successful career emerged. We bought homes. Brought pets into our household. Then of course Baby (the Kiddo). And that is when the inner turmoil began. And a bit of the external.

I was a lucky career parent. I was a consultant and was already working from home close to full time before the Kiddo arrived. And then when he did, I continued to do the same. But this is where the sticky came in. Judging. I was asked at playgroup if I was working. And then when I confirmed, nannies were recommended. Sideways glances exchanged about my likelihood of continuing work. And then of my reasons for working. I persevered.

In all honesty, it really wasn't because I loved my job. It was because I HAD to work to afford that neighborhood. Also because, well... if I was only raising my son, I think I really would have lost my sanity. And because, when I decided to go back to an office full time 2 years ago--because I desperately NEEDED the time to be who I was before I was a mother.

THE OTHER MOTHER exposes all of this. The needs and wants of being who we, as mothers, once were--women with dreams and goals. The differences between working and stay at home mothers, which if we are honest, are really just bouts of jealousy. One mother gets to get away for a while. The other gets to be with her children to never miss a milestone. And you know what? No matter what side of the fence you sit, you yearn for the other at one time or another. In my case--daily. And, folks, that is why this whole motherhood thing is hard.

I don't want to cheat you, here's the official blurb:

Amanda is a successful book editor at a prominent publishing house in New York City. Thea is a stay-at-home mother of three who has never really left the community in which she grew up. Amanda, eight-months' pregnant with her first child, and her husband, Aaron, move in next door to Thea and her family, and the two women are both drawn to and repelled by each other and their opposing choices in the constant struggle to balance career with family life.

When a disaster forces Amanda and her family to take refuge in Thea’s home, the underlying tensions simmering between them are forced to the surface. Even more when Thea fills in as Amanda’s temporary nanny...

But hey, don't let the description give too much away. The book really does dive into the heart of BOTH sides of the mommy consciousness. The conscience of working, or not. Of giving in to parenthood, and to struggling to resist it. And to just being happy with whomever we are as mothers.

The obligatory linkage:

- Gwendolen Gross' website
- Amazon link to purchase THE OTHER MOTHER
- Gwendolen's Bio

Labels: blog tour, MotherTalk, reviews

12:15 AM | Permalink | 0 comments

Parenthood, the first time around, was a definitely a trip. So much so, when I arrived at my first playgroup when The Kiddo was about 4 weeks old, the matron of the party said to me, "Boy, you look shell-shocked." None of the New Mom Glow compliments. The Gee You Look So Happy comments. Just, shell-shocked. Sleep deprivations and chaffed nipples aside, looking back, I know she was right. I was deep, down, and dirty into the shock of parenthood. It stayed until The Kiddo was about 18 months old. And then we finally hit a parenthood wall, that opened up to a bit of relief. Though, even now, when he is 4 and a half... well, it can still be shocking, just not so much as before. Or I've learned to go with the flow.

Now expecting child 2, well, I'll be thrown into new motherhood again. Though this time, I hope a little bit more prepared. And a bit more knowing than before. Or at least a little less shocked. Which brings me to today's book: BLINDSIDED BY A DIAPER: Over 30 Men and Women Reveal How Parenthood Changes a Relationship.

The easy run-down of the book is just what the title suggests-- the truths about parenthood from men and women of all types--all struggling with what we call bearing children. I mean, I'm not going to bull shit anyone, learning to parent a child without losing your cool, ruining their health, scaring them for life is one thing. But maintaining a marriage/relationship at the same time? Yep. Difficult. And that is what all of these essays focus on.

The book is divided (appropriately) into parts: the roles couples play in parenting, seeing partners differently, communication challenges (and yes there are many), sex (time, energy, needs), learning how to do it, and expectations. And each and every section will either have you nodding you head in agreement, laughing, or crying in familiarity. In fact, it's reminding me of the rocky times I'll have ahead (reliving infancy again!). But, it's okay. At least this time I know what is coming.

Here's a run down of a FEW of my favorite essays (though I am sure I could call out what I like in each):

The 3 AM Marriage by Hope Edelman
Honestly, there is such truth in this essay--finding time to spend with your partner after children is SO (so) difficult. And even without knowing Hope, I can tell her, that the husband and I have fallen into this trap too. Though, from the sounds of it we aren't as frisky at 3am, but that might change after I get this new baby out of my ever-growing belly.

Harried with Children: Communication Breakdown by Kermit Pattison
My husband and I are notorious electronic geeks... laptops, we have 3 between us and 3 desktops, e-mail accounts, too many to count, IM, constantly on, text messaging, a normal part of our communication. So the idea that our MOST efficient and common ways to stay in touch are via a computer or electronic device is no surprise (unfortunately). Kermit though, hits the nail on the head--one must really talk, in person, at some point. And what a better way to initiate that than by an intimate moment.

Breastlessness by Elisha Cooper
This essay was just a treat on the whole male-side of a working mother situation--a father that stayed home MORE than the mother. Something, I must admit is completely opposite of my current situation. But the travel situation, well it hit home. My husband sometimes has to handle The Kid when I travel. And he does it different than I do--and you know what? He manages just fine when I am not around. Elisha drives that home, when he did it all, even the ritual bath time. And you know what? The kids made it just fine.

In truth, all the essays are an honest take on parenthood. Relationships. Struggles. Growth. And well, everything that no one tells you about the emotional toll parenting does to ones soul.

Interested in the book? Order it from Amazon here. Or get the goods from the publisher:
- Official Web Site
- An Excerpt
- Reader's Guide
- General Info about the book

Labels: blog tour, books, reviews

7:55 PM | Permalink | 0 comments

Ready for a cast full of characters that keep you guessing at every commercial segment... err I mean page turn? Carolyn Parkhurst's LOST AND FOUND will give it to you. The bulk of the storyline takes place during a reality television show (you guessed it, named Lost and Found). The participants all hiding personal secrets from the American public and we follow along for a ride that just keeps you guessing.

The characters are what make this book. Not only are each and every one of them believable, they are simultaneously almost unreal. How? Well, can you imagine an "Ex-gay" born-again Christian couple, millionaires, grown-up child television stars, a divorced but seemingly normal guy and a goofball brother, a mother and teenage daughter with a shared secret (and another that well, surfaces) all working against each other to beat the clock and each other's intelligence? Well, it is in this book. And the characters work well in this setting--it's reality television for crying out loud. How can it NOT happen?

From page one you are thrown into the chaos that one would imagine as a television game show contestant. Or at least ones that are on a global scavenger hunt. And then you turn to page two and you are suddenly flashed into the past and all the secrets that haunt these participants. It's a nice twist of current events with those of the past (and others of the present) and how, as humans, we try to hide our true selves from the rest of the world. Especially under the microscope of a television camera.

I must admit to wanting to attempt my fate at reality television. At least a few years ago when MTV's Real World was airing. When I was still pretty much single and envious of a life in the city. But then again, what late teen doesn't have grandiose dreams of living the life of a somewhat celebrity that the world loves? (Okay, maybe I was delusional. And a bit of a drama queen).

Anyway, the book is fun, fabulous, fast... and really does touch on so many deep topics I hate to even bring them up here (okay here's a few: sexuality in general, growing up, parenting, illness, marriage, homosexuality, violence). It doesn't take a light approach to any of them either. Carolyn just stares them down and tackles them one by one through each of the complex and honest characters in the book.

Don't worry, you don't get bogged down in the television show creation details. Well sure, you learn the names of some of the camera, lighting, and sound crew. As well as the use of microphones, production assistants, and some of the behind the scenes guidance... I mean antics--but the gut of the story is with the characters. And how they grow. How in the end, they're just ordinary people with events in their lives. Just like the rest of us. And that is what makes this book such a great read.

So here's the goods to keep you occupied. And of course to buy the book!

• Carolyn Parkhurst's official website
• Amazon Link to LOST AND FOUND
• Interview with the Author
• Details about LOST AND FOUND
• Details about Carolyn's other book DOGS OF BABEL
• Other links and things about Carolyn and/or her book

* As always, this post is brought to you by the lovely women at MotherTalk. I get a free book and small gift certificate for my time to read and review. I'm in it for the books people. I love the books. And of course supporting a fellow author!

Labels: blog tour, books, reviews

12:01 AM | Permalink | 0 comments

[If you are reading this in an RSS reader, it may not display correctly. I highly recommend clicking through to the site to see the book cover, author photo, full interview, links to other fun stuff and of course my glowing recommendation to buy the book. 'Cause it is funny. Heart-breaking. And just plain awesome]

Labels: blog tour, books, reviews

4:33 PM | Permalink | 1 comments

Am I an environmentalist? Not as a profession, but hell if I can't give a little back to nature when given a chance. We all can really with little to no effort at all. And that's where THE GREEN BOOK: The Everyday Guide to Saving the Planet One Simple Step at a Time by Elisabeth Rogers and Thomas M. Kostigen can give you a little boost to become a bit more green.

The scoop on the book is simple, take simple activities and make them a little bit more environmentally friendly. Easy enough right? It really is. Here's five example I plan to initiate regularly at my home:

1. If an electronic is not charging its battery, then unplug the charger itself.
2. Recycle, recycle, recycle. Okay, I already do this. My city is fortunate to have a recycle program and I've used it for years. But now, I must say, I'll be really diligent to make sure we are getting all the junk mail and phone books into the paper bin!
3. Always buy glass bottles. Yep. Beer. Soda. You name it. Better recycle options on glass.
   
4. Keep curtains closed on sunny days. I don't like living in the shade any more than the next guy (especially when it was a weekend like this one), but hey, have you noticed how much cooler the house stays?
5. Use a few less paper napkins. I admit, I'm the mom that grabs STACKS of napkins to keep the food mess off my child's face, clothes, and well everything. But hell, this is one of the LARGEST waste of materials ever. Especially since, well, do we ever use the entire stack of 50 I bring with me to the table? Not usually. And every one of those napkins are then required to be tossed out in the trash.
   

Oh, and so you know I am not a total louse, we are also already huge electronic waste recyclers (they know me by name when I drop off our latest electronic gadgets) and I am huge supportor (and contributor) to telecommuting.

You think all this is small potatoes? It sure is, but multiply it by the entire population of the United States. Those numbers become staggering, and so does our impact on making the planet a better place.

But hey, don't take my word for it, read THE GREEN BOOK. Find out for yourself. If my word isn't enough, listen to some of the A-list celebrities that also endorsed the book (and added a few of their own ideas)--Jennifer Aniston, Cameron Diaz, Will Ferrell, Robert Redford, Ellen DeGeneres, Faith Hill and Tim McGraw, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Justin Timberlake, Tyra Banks, Owen Wilson, Martha Stewart, and Tiki Barber. The book's even hit Oprah!

As always, here's the goods on the book as well, you know, so you can purchase a copy and read more about it:

• Buy the book from Amazon here.
• The official website
• Authors interview (scroll to near the bottom)

Oh and let me know--what's a simple Green habit you want to start today?

* Again, this little review was brought to you courtesy or a free galley version of the book sent to yours truly. I got to read a bit ahead of the street date, so I gave you a bit of a review.

Labels: blog tour, reviews

10:50 PM | Permalink | 0 comments

It's that time again (I know, I'm in reading heaven these days)! We have a MotherTalk sponsored blog tour for SWEET RUIN by Cathi Hanauer (which means I do get a free book and small little something for my time).

When first approached about this book, I jumped at the chance-- always a sucker for all mom-lit type books. But, I was even more so when I read the blurb. Not only is a story about a suburban mom, but it was a mom who works from home with a child, and has suffered a loss of a child. A deeper read than chic lit, and I was ready for it!

Here's the set up:

Elayna Leopold is a suburban mom in New Jersey. Her husband works long hours a lawyer. Pre-children the couple was all about fun, night life, and chasing dreams and careers. Now, she finds herself submersed in motherhood. Hazel her first daughter was born. Then 2 years after, her son was born. And died shortly after his birth. Now we are two years after that... and Elayna is just emerging from the throws of depression (I mean who wouldn't be?). She's beginning to see the light of day, enjoy her time with her daughter, and well, just enjoy life.

In walks Kevin--the artist who lives in the apartments across the way. And suddenly desires she thought long dead resurface, the person she once was starts to re-emerge, and well, the story unfolds.

Honestly, I couldn't put this book down when I started reading it. I was captivated with the detail and honesty of Elayna. I was enthralled immediately into the routine life Elayna lived (hell, I live it almost every day myself). And I was even more enchanted by the relationship Elayna had with her daughter Hazel. Though the daughter is only four, she's definitely a wise soul. And also a spirited and intelligent girl who--well, we can imagine--takes very much after her mother. It is no surprise that this relationship brought me into the story, hell, I'm a mother myself and can completely relate on almost every level!

But it was so much more than that. It was the detail about the relationship Elayna had with her husband, her day care provider, her sister that really nailed it for me. The very idea that a mother is really a woman. A woman that has needs, wants, desires--that don't always revolve around her children. And as a woman, it's a delicate balancing act. One that has ramifications.

The story is all real. All very true. And each and every character is deep, involved, and full of human faults. It was the honesty in which Elayna talked about her depression, about losing a child, and about falling in and out of love with her husband, and dealing with what life had given to her (and taken away). Pansy, the day care providers, often possessiveness of her children that stayed with her. The hurt she felt when Elayna wouldn't bring Hazel to class. Cynthia's (the sister), desire for love, happiness, and the perfect life. And Paul, Elyana's husband, own struggle with his depression, his career, and being the father and husband he imagined himself to be. Sure it was written from Elayna's point of view--but all of these characters were evident. As well as their thoughts and feelings--and in their actions (and reactions).

The story, deep in thoughts about one woman's struggles and growth, pulls you in. Before you know it, you are heading straight into a whirlwind--one that you can see coming straight for you--but you can't move out the way. And don't want to.

The writing is dead on. In my part of the world (which really means in my experiences), this book is very real. Heartbreaking. Truthful. And one a keeper on my bookshelf. As much as I could relate to Elayna, I found myself trying to decide if I, too, would make the same decisions she does. How I would deal with loss? How my family would deal with it? And how I would move on in my life. And really that is what the book is about-- life, loss, moving on.

Really. Check. It. Out. It is like Jennifer Weiner, but a bit more serious. But tackling some of the very same issues. This one's a keeper. And I'll read it again and again.

Buy the book here from Amazon.
Check out Cathi's website.
Read an interview with Cathi Hanauer.

Labels: blog tour, MotherTalk, reviews

10:43 AM | Permalink | 0 comments

NOTE: If you are reading this in an RSS reader (particularly Bloglines), this post isn't displaying correctly. In fact, you lose the entire opener to the Meg Cabot interview. So, to get the full post, please click over the the real blog! Thanks!

As alluded to in an earlier post, I'm very honored to have Meg Cabot here for an a little girl talk about her latest novel QUEEN OF BABBLE. (I mean, seriously, can you believe it? I am still slack-jawed and numb myself). And really, this is a first time for me, I've been an interviewer. Meg? Was as gracious as ever... see for yourself, as I'm still hopping around doing the happy dance.

Oh, and if you read to the end of this interview, I might have a little extra somethin', somethin' for y'all. Well that is if you do a little blabbin' yourself for me.


*********

Hi Meg (if I can call you by your first name basis. I mean we are both author's right? So the first-name-basis-thingie should be proper. I hope)!

I can't tell you how delighted I am to interview you for my blog. In fact, my jaw nearly hit my keyboard, since I am a mere small-time blogger with big dreams towards being a novelist--and here Meg Cabot (THE Meg Cabot with a gazillion novels under her belt like THE PRINCESS DIARIES Series, 1-800 Series, oh and SIZE 12 IS NOT FAT (Heather Wells Series), and SHE WENT ALL THE WAY) is on a blog tour and I'm helping? Yes, I'm a fan (but not in an overly obsessed stalker type way, I swear). I'm still in shock. Interview. Freebie of your latest book, QUEEN OF BABBLE. Well, I think I was catapulted into writer heaven. Or at least my version of it.

Anyway, my star-struck famous author visiting my blog babble must stop, as I know you are a busy woman--and I've got 5 questions to be answered. So, here they are:


1. First, QUEEN OF BABBLE was absolutely adorable. I mean, who wouldn't love Lizzie's diarrhea of the mouth (okay, that is my term, not yours).

Awww, thanks!

But it's true! That girl talks. And doesn't know when to stop. I mean, speaking from experience here, I think I've done myself "in" on more than one occasion due to the same sorta relationship with my conscience and mouth speaking. So, for the first question, tell me, are you a babbler like Lizzie?

Sadly, yes. The books are a LITTLE bit autobiographical. Just a little.

And (somehow I think you might be) please share, is there every a time when you let TOO much spill from your lips and what kind of trouble did it get you into?

Wow, it's kind of hard to pick out just one because there have been SO many occasions and of course they're so numerous (and embarrassing) I try to block them out as soon as possible. And of course I probably shouldn't mention anything that will upset my friends or family members or publishers (again). But I did used to work in the manager's office of a dorm at New York University where we would counsel students, and we had this confidentiality policy--we weren't supposed to talk about what the students told us to anyone outside the office. But it was all so dishy! I would tell EVERYONE! It was awful. I came so close to being fired so many times.

Then, when I finally quit, I couldn't resist stealing a bunch of the most outstandingly awesome olfd student files to use as inspiration for future books. My favorite is the one featuring Polaroids of a guy who passed out early during an illegal keg party, so his roommates put him--unconscious--in the elevator. He rode up and down all night long and never even knew it. In his Superman Underoos.

I hope my former employers never find out I have that.

Oops.

2. Along that same vein, was it that foot-in-mouth mistake that lead you to write QUEEN OF BABBLE? I'm always dying to know what inspired a book to be written. Was it the character of Lizzie? The What-if Scenario of a girl that just can't stop speaking her mind?

I hate secrets...I find them burdensome and feel this painful NEED to unload them as soon as they are revealed to me. I like to tell myself it's because I've seen what secrets can do to families, and how much simpler and better it is to just have everything out in the open and dealt with from the beginning (unless they're the hurtful kind of secrets, of course). But I don't know. I think it's just because I love calling my friends and going, "You will NEVER believe this!" Although I do feel horrible AFTER I blab something I promised not to tell. And yet, for some reason, people keep on telling their secrets to me, knowing full well I will tell everyone.

I wanted to write a book about a girl like me, because I'm tired of reading about noble heroines who keep everyone's secrets and don't blab out things without thinking, because that's so not me. I can't relate! I WISH I could be like those girls. But I never will be, I'm afraid.

3. I see there is a sequel coming (how could I *not* notice), QUEEN OF BABBLE IN THE BIG CITY, was this always in the plans when you wrote the first book? I ask because you are known for many books (over 40!) and many part of a series of books. As an author myself, I'm always curious about the intentions of books from the get go? And how series of books are born? Are the planned? Do the characters suddenly become loved by the author (and editorial team) that you JUST HAVE TO write another follow up book? Please share. Because right now, I'd dive right into the next Lizzie book in a heartbeat and I think there might be others like me!

Well, thanks! No, I definitely planned out a trilogy of books about Lizzie from the beginning, and submitted a three book proposal to my editor right off the bat--Queen of Babble (the first book, which is out in paperback now), Queen of Babble in the Big City (out in hardback on the June 26), and Queen of Babble Gets Hitched, which I'm writing right now, and will be out next year at this time.

I don't know why, but I always know from the inception of the idea for a book if it's going to be a stand alone or a series. I knew when I got the idea for Queen of Babble that it would be a series. Three books seemed about right to tell all of Lizzie's tale. Same with Princess Diaries (10 books), the Mediator series, etc.

The bad part is when I envision a book as being a stand alone--like my 2005 teen release, Avalon High, and readers want a sequel...and I can't think of one! Because if I had envisioned a sequel, usually I'd have pitched the book as a series from the beginning. Fortunately I thought of a sequel (a mini-one...it's going to be a graphic novel, Avalon High 2, Coronation, out July 3). But I usually can never think of a sequel unless I've planned them out from the start.

4. I can't help but ask a more personal question as well, what superpowers do you wish you could have? Me? I'm thinking super-speed might do me well--I've got a 4 year old and another along the way, 2 cats, a dog, a husband, a house, a day job... well you get the idea. But really, what super power would you want and why?

It isn't really a superpower, but I wish I could fall asleep like a normal person! I have had insomnia since I was 12. I so envy nappers or anyone who can fall asleep without the aid of drugs. I've tried everything...giving up caffeine, drinking warm milk, baths, herbs, special teas, ear plugs, noise machines, special pillows, humidifiers, lowering my thermostat to 68 (ideal sleep temperature), kicking my husband out and sleeping in my own room, kicking the cat out, Sominex, Benadryl, Unisom, melatonin, kava kava, Ambien, you name it, for years. I would love the superpower of being able to doze off naturally whenever I want. That would be bliss! But I don't think it will ever happen without being bitten by a radioactive spider.

5. And lastly (because I know I've babbled myself a bit and you've got many other blogs to hit), what's your most unfavorite word ever? You know... the one that you just can't stand uttered from anyone's lips (or typed on a page), like fingers scraping on a chalk board?

It's not a word, it's a phrase. I hate the phrase, "I don't mean to be rude, but...." I was always taught that if you have to preface something with that phrase, you DO mean to be rude, so you should keep it to yourself! But no one ever seems to. They just blurt it out, apparently thinking that because they said they didn't mean to be rude, that absolves them. Well, it doesn't. Argh! I hate that.

Thanks again for your time. Honestly, this has just been a blast! Wish you continued success with ALL your books, and know, I'll be here still reading!

Thank YOU! I wish I could have thought of a better blabby secret to share, but I don't want to get any more friends/relatives mad at me.

********

See? Wasn't that just FABULOUS? Honestly, best interview I've ever conducted (but I guess after a career of interviewing engineers for user guide content, there isn't even a comparison). So thanks again Meg! This was wonderful

And yes, QUEEN OF BABBLE is absolutely charming, fun, witty, and all the things you would expect. Great beach read that keeps you giggling all the way to the last page. Really. So please, go check out the book. And of course Meg. How can you not love her? Here's the linkage to get you all hooked up:

• Meg's Official Website
• Meg's blog (and yes, it is as fun as she is. Check it out!)
• Can't get enough of Meg yet? Check out her bio. It's more of an inside peek at the author.
  
• Amazon link to QUEEN OF BABBLE (you know, so you can buy it now)
  

**Oh and for the extra icing on the cake? Well, it's simple. Give me your Biggest Babble Moment in the comments (or a link to a blog post about it) and I'll do a little random drawing for the winner of your very own copy of QUEEN OF BABBLE. It's a great read, and hell, I'm all about sharing the laughs. So, get writing! I want to the worst of the worst stories you can dish out (we're all friends here, so no holding back)!

Updated: DEADLINE for the Biggest Babble Moment contest, Friday, June 15, at midnight CST. Please keep the moments coming (glad I'm not the only one either)!

Labels: blog tour, interview, Meg Cabot, reviews

8:17 PM | Permalink | 0 comments

Someone is coming to visit this very blog. Yep... [whispers/screams] Meg Cabot. The author of everything from THE PRINCESS DIARIES Series, 1-800 Series, oh and SIZE 12 IS NOT FAT/Heather Wells Series, and SHE WENT ALL THE WAY !

Can you believe it? I'm still drooling and spitting all over myself after trying to articulate myself accordingly for the interview.

Anyway, here's what's awaiting you in the next few days (one blog post once I get all the info together):

• A personal interview with me (well, if I didn't make a fool of myself).
• Some ravings about her latest novel, QUEEN OF BABBLE.
• And more than a hint into the secret lives of authors (or at least a peek into some of her inspirations and most disliked word ever).

Isn't this just The Coolest Thing Ever? Because, really it is.

Labels: interview, reviews, writing

11:49 AM | Permalink | 0 comments

True Dialogue from last night:

"Mom, what's that?" Points book on the counter.

"A book Mom's reading."

"What's it about?"

"Kids reading books they like. And then they talk about the books."

The kiddo picks it up and starts paging through until he hits the end. "Is it a Book Club? Because I think that would be a good name."

"In fact that is what it would be called." I couldn't help but grin. I mean, he's 4 (and a half).

"And I really want to be in one of those clubs."

And that made me grin even more.

See? That's the thing. He is only four and he already has a love for books. One that I hope I had at least a small part in instilling in him. I'm a reader. I'm a writer. Damn, if I didn't want to pass that one little trait to the kiddo. And it sure looks like I did!

Even more to the point is this book, THE KIDS' BOOK CLUB BOOK is all about children's book clubs. A Be-All Guide for starting, setting up, attracting, and running a book club for children ranging in ages from 6 to 18. But then again, it isn't like any of the suggested books can't be enjoyed by anyone (they can!)... so I guess it is a book club book for all ages--but one with a focus on children. And the fun you can with activities surrounding a book club.

In fact when I was leafing through the book, reading book recommendations across the age groups I was (of course) drawn to the author snippets. The who, what, when, where and WHY I decided to write this book discussions. It was fascinating. I'm an author, it will be of course. But I think this part might be the most fascinating to even the kids reading the books. I mean, who wouldn't want to know why a writer wrote what they did, or what started the entire story? It's a hard bit of information to pass up!

Anyway, all in all, I just can't wait the couple years until my son is ready to participate in something like a Kid's Book Club. I'm so excited, I just might start one myself to make sure he can partake in such a fun activity!

You want to start one too? Just use this book as a great starting point to get your mind churning on all the great ideas (and stories) out there! You can buy it here. And while you wait, check out all the bits of information at THE KIDS' BOOK CLUB BOOK Website. It has almost everything the book has-- or at least book recommendations, suggested activities, and even links to invite author's to join your book club by phone. It's a great resource in and of itself!

This post was again brought to you by the lovely women at MotherTalk. They keep offering me books to review (who can refuse a free book) and I can't keep saying yes!

Labels: blog tour, reviews

10:18 PM | Permalink | 1 comments

So, I had a baby. No, not the new baby, but approximately four and a half years ago, I became a mother. And boy, was I in the dark. Or at least felt in the dark about motherhood. I'd read at least a dozen books on birth, breastfeeding, parenting, motherhood (journals), but still, was I ready? Hardly.

This is where I wish I'd had FROM THE HIPS a great new book from Rebecca Odes and Ceridwen Morris. Not only does this book just look great (hello? color illustrations and a title that just gives it to you like it is)-it's full of all the stuff you wanted to ask/say/holler/inquire/cry about during everything from the first signs of pregnancy through the first year of the baby's life!

Sure, it's geared towards new first time mothers, but I'll be damned if I didn't sit and read the book cover to cover, scouring over the well placed Anonymom quotes on almost each and every page and nod my head over and over. In fact, after a while, I found it almost sad that so many new moms feel all this stuff and we hardly share the feeling with one another. I mean, pregnancy is not easy. Even for those of us that have "easy" pregnancies. And then birth? Well, let's just simply say: It's a (painful/horrendous/embarrassing/out-of-this-world/any adjective you can think of here) experience. But then AFTER all of this life-changing crap (and a body you hardly recognize anymore) you are thrown into this thing called parenthood. Hell, I would have given my left arm to have a book like this to confirm that, indeed, I really hadn't fallen off the deep end.

So please, just read the Introduction here (it will have you hooked). Or, even better, go to the website and order the book. And to keep you (and the baby) pacified until it arrives, check out The New Mom Blog (hell, I've been reading it on RSS feed now for days. Baby 2 doesn't diminish the 1000 fears that cross your mind). And even better yet read about Rebecca and Ceridwen, women with an honest approach to pregnancy AND parenthood (and let me tell you--they really do cover it all... from conception, good ole sex, impressionable women and their intruding families, as well as how to deal emotionally when the baby just won't fall asleep).

Go. Read. Now.

This post brought to you by (again), the lovely women at MotherTalk. They keep offering up books to review, and hell if I can't keep saying yes! The books are great, and authors even beter.

Labels: blog tour, reviews

8:22 AM | Permalink | 0 comments

It's blog tour time again here at mommy writer! :-) This time I am tickled pink to promote a fiction book too (thanks to the wonderful women over at MotherTalk who keep asking me to participate in these things)! Being a fiction writer myself, I'm keen on helping promote authors of the same flavor to the public. Hell, I started as an avid reader before I became the writer I am today!

Anyway, that aside, this week's blog tour is for LATE NIGHT TALKING by Leslie Schnur. And let me tell you, Leslie has a story to tell about her venture into authorship (did you know she worked her way up the editorial chain of command from copywriter to editorial director? Really.) It is an amazing tale of events that can be heard...err read from Leslie herself. Check it out here.

But the real goods of the goods is the book itself. And boy is it a fun! I've never worked in radio or broadcasting... but hell if I wouldn't consider the career now. Even if it was midnight shift and on AM radio like Jeannie Sterling, the main character of this fun, fast paced novel that had my nightstand prime spot for about two evenings (I read fast. I've told/warned you). But it isn't just my superficial fascination with all careers revolving around entertainment that kept my nose in this book. It is more the peek inside Jeannie's head. The emotions are real. The thoughts honest. And i just couldn't help but relate to Jeannie. It's like her conscious is another character in the book--which is just fabulous. Because God knows, that little voice that talks to me in my head could write its own book someday. I am sure of it.

Anyway, the book covers everything from family relationships, death of a parent, childhood, love, work/career, and pet peeves (and let me tell you, this is the funniest part of the book). As outlandish and Jeannie appears on the outside, she's human. And that makes the book a definite read.

Please check out Leslie's website. It is fabulously fun--not to mention a draw to buy Leslie's other book THE DOG WATCHER. Her voice is slobbered all over the web site (yes, that is a reference to her love of her dogs). And you can't help but keep rooting for her to become a success with her writing.

And of course, go buy LATE NIGHT TALKING. It will keep you up all night reading (for your convenience, Amazon link here).

Labels: blog tour, MotherTalk, reviews

8:19 AM | Permalink | 0 comments

When I was expecting for the first time--I wanted a girl. Why? Knowing what I do now (and wouldn't admit then)--boys are just as adorable. Just as cute. Just as snuggly. And, if I didn't know any better, loved their mom's almost more than life itself (as my son. Just today he told me I was his bestest friend in the whole world and he'd never stop loving me no matter where he is).

But what I really didn't know then--and what scared me silly--was that I didn't know the world of the elusive boy. And even though I am now grown and married and had a son--I still can't say that the male species is any less elusive. Whether it is the cooties they inevitably spread to us girls, or the way the shatter (and then mend) our hearts. It's just a given, we'll never quite understand the male species. Even after you give birth to one.

Which brings me to the real review--The Dangerous Book For Boys by Conn and Hal Iggulden. I've had the fortunate experience to work with the folks at MotherTalk to review a handful of their books. An open call is asked on the blog, and we volunteer our time to read and review all for the "payment" of a book. And this little review is no different. But why I chose this book is a bit of a first for me.

I wanted an IN. You know, the secret to what makes boys tick. What makes a boy a boy. A man a man. Why most would rather spend time holed up in a tree house/office/garage/room and learn about life instead of socializing with the rest of the world. Why a good kick in the leg and punch in the arm can make life more tolerable. Or why a pat on the ass from a teammate is as meaningful at age twenty-three as a hug from a mother at age three for boosting self-esteem. Did the Igguldens reveal the secret?

Well... not really all of them. But they did offer a sneak peak into the mind of what interest the boys in my life. But don't let that discourage your from picking up the book on your own. Because this book had another little treasure I didn't expect.

I started remembering my own childhood.

Sure, it's no secret that I'm a girl. But what is a bit of a secret is that I didn't have any brothers (only a sister). Which means my Dad... well he didn't have any boys to share all these secrets with. So you know what he did? You guessed it. Shared some of these activities with his daughters. We learned how to tell the age of a tree. How to fish for Brooke Trout, Salmon, Pike, and Walleye. We also stared for hours at the various cloud formations, learned to tell the difference between types of trees by their leaves and bark. Followed animal droppings on trails in the forest on camping trips... and well, dipped just one ity bity foot into the world of boys. The Dangerous World of Boys.

And the more I leafed through the book, read chapters here and there, found another tidbit I didn't know... or just that moment remembered, I realized what my Dad gave me. A sense of what it means to be a boy. Or in some cases a grown boy (because we never grow up. Not really). That is the one thing I want you to take away from this review... this book can do the very same thing for you. It will bring back the memories of your childhood. Or give you memories and factoids to share with your own kids.

Not to mention HOURS upon HOURS of activities that can keep even my husband, kiddo, and myself busy til the end of time! I mean who knew in one little book, you could find out about:

• Tying knots (and honestly, this is a constant question around here with a 4 year old, string, and various super hero weapons all over the floor. Oh and my son's fascination with sticks).
• Bugs and Dinosaurs. Information on the very basics (and then some) for any question that the little dude asks now. And will definitely want to know later when he wants a pet tarantula.
• Building Go Carts and Tree houses. This is the husband's department. I'm just a bystander for those activities.
• Rules and regulations for stick ball (which from the look around the new neighborhood might be a new favorite past time) and soccer.
• How to make secret ink (I think this is in my plans for tomorrow), batteries, little lights, magnets... oh well, every little thing you can think of.
• The greatest battles of all times.
• The greatest heroes of all time (well maybe not exactly that way.. but some famous people you should know)
• stuff about the English language. And God knows, even as a writer, I need all the help I can get with all of that myself.
• Information on all 50 states
• Pirate flags (even this fascinated me!)
• Fossils
• And even skipping rocks

See? And I am just skimming the surface. This book is the BOY BIBLE. And if I can say so myself the KID BIBLE. How can it not be? It is chalked full of facts AND fun all in one package. And aside from that, who can sneeze at instructions for building the best of the best tree houses? Whether a mother or a father... this is good stuff!

Anyway, please take a look for yourself. It's fabulous. And a reference I'll be pulling off the shelf for years to come (you know, so I don't make the kiddo look bad in front of all his boy friends). Oh, and don't forget--check out all the virtual goods on this book. It's all fabulous. And clearly on the up and up for buzzing a book online.

- The Fantabulous website
- Totally wicked video trailers
- A cool publisher contest to win free books and badges
- Damn cool interview and appearance on The Colbert Report (Comedy Central)
- The Amazon link with a snazzy (and insightful) interview

Let's rally around our childhood... join the boy's club (even if just spiritually) and check this book out. Honestly, it is a blast from the past. And a much needed reminder that I can be a pretty darn good mom to my son. Oh, and thanks Dad! You really did teach me more than you knew!

Labels: blog tour, Iggulden, reviews

7:03 AM | Permalink | 1 comments

I'm a book junkie--admittedly, several times on this blog!--so when the opportunity arises to get a free book to review it on my blog, I'm there. No questions asked.

But here's the thing, Nancy French, author of my latest review A Red State of Mind: How a Catfish Queen Reject Became a Liberty Belle, had no idea that I am a fiction reader. For the most part anyway. And she was throwing me blog and mind fodder for WEEKS. And a memoirish type book that definitely has something to say.

So here I sit--new book in hand, review to write, and a mind full of spittle I want to share. But, first let me tell you, this book WILL get notice for Nancy. Some of it good. Some of it not so good. Only because her topics--politics and religion. But hey, Nancy is no stranger to walking the line. She's written for years for the Philadelphia City Paper columns about these very topics. And, if you read the book, hate mail is no stranger to her (unfortunately).

Which brings me to the review. If you love blogs, you'll likely love this book. It reads very much like a conversational journal with funny anecdotes and humor only someone like Nancy could pull off. I mean, who can talk about religion and politics and make you smile? For me--and this is personal taste--her research, quotes, and cited sources were a bit of a distraction from the funny tales of living North with a South mentality--and vice versa (because dear Nancy, once thrown in a Northern culture and then moved back South, sorta adopted some of the Northern mentality).

The book IS funny. It IS poignant. It does tell a great tale of dealing with basic cultural differences. And for me, coming from the rural Upper Peninsula of Michigan, I can relate. So, much so, I wondered if it really is a north/south thing at all. Maybe it is rural versus urban people. Because, honestly, there is a bigger divide in THAT culture difference to me than anything else.

Anyway, give the book a chance. It has the fun, flippant voice so often found in women's fiction and it has a point. A very definite stance on cultural divides. If you're not into the pointed discussions, read this book for its humor. It's chalked full. Read it for the internal dialogue Nancy is sharing with the world. It's honest. She writes like she's your best friend sitting across the table with a steaming cup of coffee. And for me, that made it a one-day-read. One about a topic I likely would have never given a chance on my own.

Labels: author, books, reviews

9:57 AM | Permalink | 0 comments

I'm in a family of boys--one 3 and one 33--who are obsessed with super heroes. ALL super heroes old and new. If there is a figure with a cape, magic power, or some hidden ability to be found, my boys will know about it. And share it hours of caped magic power fun. Leaving me to wonder where the hell my power to woo them to eat dinner had gone. And this, my dear readers, is why I need to introduce you Confessions of a Super Mom by Melanie Lynne Hauser.

Origins. Incidents. Magical powers. Evil villains. Trusty side-kicks and love interests... the book, well, it's all here. Weaved in and out of a totally out-of-this world little tale that had me giggling to tears last night. And yes, I read it in one night.

Melanie doesn't leave a thing out--and even has a few hidden chuckles thrown in for those of us (whether by choice or not) have been thrown into the world of super heroes. Don't believe me? Start reading, you'd be surprised at who's invited to play along, as well as the homage to the super hero greats.

I fear if I write a thing more, I am going to spoil the fun of the book... really. It is that fun. So without ruining a thing, I'll just point you in the right direction (oh, and you know what? She's got a SEQUEL. In true super hero style. I'm SO right in line to get that one on my shelf):

• Melanie's Read& Buy (read the first chapter of the book and then--by all means--BUY it) here
• Just want to buy it? Go to Amazon.
• Melanie's Website
• Book Club info or The Super Mom Swiffer Contest
• The Refrigerator Door (Melanie's Blog)

So, please, break out that kid in you-- the dish towel cape, heels and a handbag and super hero's unite! Oh and Melanie? Thanks... the book was FABULOUS.

Labels: books, reviews

12:47 PM | Permalink | 0 comments

It's virtual book tour time! And again we are pleased to bring you IT'S A GIRL by Andi Buchanan. Or more accurately edited by Andi-- as it is a collection of essays written by mothers of daughters pre and post birth.

I was enamored and fascinated with the book at first glance--because it was about girls. Little baby girls. Grown up girls. Mothering girls. Planning for mothering girls. And dealing with girls. And I have a son.

Being a boy mamma--I had no experience to draw from. Well, other than the friends with daughters. and being of the daughter-mind myself--the rest is a mystery. A wonderfully complicated and fresh mystery that one day I might get to experience with a future child. But for now, it's all foreign and misty and totally new. And this book explains IT ALL.

The girlie girls, the moodiness, shrieking, tiaras, tomboys, menstruation, self-image, dread, hope, passing on (or not) of the family name, confidence and all things daughter. ALL THINGS that, as a daughter I thought myself. Even the things I hope NOT to pass to any future daughter (and this theme of passing on or not... also evident in the essays).

As typical of any of Andi's books, I could blather on like an idiot. But this time, I won't. It wouldn't do it justice. So here's the official blurb:

It's a Girl: Women Writers on Raising Daughters
Edited by Andrea J. Buchanan
Seal Press, April 2006; $14.95

The most popular question any pregnant woman is asked--—aside from "When are you due?"--— has got to be "Are you having a girl or a boy?" When author Andrea Buchanan was pregnant with her daughter, she was thrilled to be expecting a girl. Some people were happy for her, with shared visions of flouncy pink dresses and promises of mother-daughter bonding to come. Other people, though, were concerned: "Is your husband OK with that?" "You can try again." "Girls are tough." This mixed message led her to explore the issue herself, with help from her fellow mother-writers, many of whom had had the same experience.The result is It's a Girl: Women Writers on Raising Daughters, a wide-ranging, humorous, honest, and poignant collection of essays on the experience of mothering daughters. As she did in It's a Boy: Women Writers on Raising Sons, Buchanan and her contributors take on what it's really like to raise a child--—in this case, a girl--—from babyhood to adulthood with essays on everything from "princess power" ("Shining, Shimmering, Splendid"), adding a girl to a brood of boys ("Confessions of a Tomboy Mom"), dealing with a daughter's eating disorder ("The Food Rules"), and mothering "hardcore mini-feminists" ("Tough Girls").

Contributors include Carolyn Alessio, Barbara Card Atkinson, Jenny Block, Amy Bloom, Gayle Brandeis, Martha Brockenbrough, Andrea Buchanan, Ann Douglas, Leslie Fields, Kim Fischer, Gwendolen Gross, Jessica Berger Gross, Rachel Hall, Kelly Harrington Johnson, Suzanne Kamata, Yvonne Latty, Jennifer Lauck, Jody Mace, Jennifer Margulis, Joyce Maynard, Jacqueline Mitchard, Vicky Mlyniec, Catherine Newman, Miriam Peskowitz, Jill Siler, Gabrielle Smith-Dluha, Rebecca Steinitz, Emily Strong, Shari MacDonald Strong, and Katharine Weber.

And of course you can read the introduction here.

Do I still want to parent a daughter? Maybe someday. At least I know I'll have women to share in all the joy, euphoria, contemplation, and struggles.

Labels: author, blog tour, books, reviews

10:26 AM | Permalink | 0 comments

Time to promote another book at Mommy Writer and appropriately it is Literary Mama edited by Andi Buchanan and Amy Hudock. Yep, a book inspired by literarymama.com.

Hell, the very first paragraph of the introduction struck that ever-creative cord in my chest that is always trying to stretch itself to continue growing as a writer AND a parent. You know, stretching it to catch all the various balls and hats of the many roles and responsibilities we juggle daily as mothers who write. Or writers who mother. Want to know what I mean? Here's the first paragraph and you can decide for yourself:

A woman who is a mother and a professional writer sits down to write, rushing to meet a deadline. She takes a moment to reflect on where she left off and then quickly jumps back into the story. As she writes, creating an alternate world, her real world intervenes: The children demand food, the husband wonders where his good pants are, the baby swallows a button, a delivery arrives, the husband wants her attention and insists that she stop her "scribbling,"” one of the kids destroys the first page of her manuscript. She perseveres, writing through the distractions for as long as she can, and then finally surrenders to the domestic chaos, telling her husband to just hand her the baby already and wondering aloud why she bothers trying to balance a writing career and motherhood.

This book is worth the read. Again and again. Especially on those days when your writing isn't quite inspiring. When your doubting your writing abilities. And when you just don't think you can handle another day of parenting. And coming from someone who is STILL on the road, this book is made for a traveling mom on her way in and out of airplanes, cars, and conference meetings.

Here's a bit of info on the lovely editors (as taken from the literarymama.com website):

Amy Hudock, Ph. D. ("The River"), Literary Mama Editor-in-Chief, teaches English at the University of South Carolina. She lives in Columbia, SC, with her daughter. She is a co-editor of the book American Women Prose Writers, 1820-1870, a volume in the Dictionary of Literary Biography series, and the author of scholarly essays on nineteenth-century American women writers. Her non-scholarly writing about motherhood has appeared in ePregnancy, Pregnancy and Baby, Philosophical Mother. You can read her discussions about mothering in academia in her column here at Literary Mama, Mothering in the Ivory Tower, and at her weblog.

Andrea J. Buchanan ("The Plant," the Literary Mama column Mother Shock) is Managing Editor of LiteraryMama.com. Her book of essays on motherhood, Mother Shock: Loving Every (Other) Minute of It (Seal Press 2003), is available wherever books are sold. Her work has been featured in Parents and Nick Jr. magazines, the collection Breeder: Real Life Stories from the New Generation of Mothers, and in on-line parenting magazines such as PregnancyandBaby.com and hipMama.com. Before becoming a mother, Andrea was a classical pianist. Her last recital was at Carnegie Hall's Weill Recital Hall, back before she knew how to play the Teletubbies theme song. You can read more about her adventures in motherland in her weblog. For more information about the book, visit mothershock.com. [Also, she wrote It's a Boy. My review for it is here].

The obligatory linkage for more info:

• Read the introduction
  
• Read the real stuff online at literarymama.com
• Read Andi's blog or go to her website
• Visit Amy's blog
• Buy the book at Amazon
  

Don't let these essays, poems, or thoughts on writing while maternally inclined pass you by. Really. You'll miss out.

Labels: author, books, reviews

9:46 PM | Permalink | 4 comments

Look here... I'm an official stop for the It's A Boy: Women Writers On Raising Sons Blog Book Tour! The book is edited by Andi Buchanan (author of Mother Shock: Loving Every (Other) Minute of It and editor over at literarymama.com) but is chalked full of essays written women* who have sons of their own. But before I go on blathering about how great all these essays are (and let me tell you, it would take me a blog post for EACH story to explain the whys and hows of their down-to-earth, truthful memoirs of mothering boys) I want share my own adventure into rearing a son--because THIS IS WHAT THIS BOOKS MAKES YOU WANT TO DO. So, call up every one of your girlfriends who has the fortune to have a son (no matter what the age), plan to read the book together, and get ready for a night of admitting the neurosis we call mothering boys.

After I survived the first four weeks of (the holy-shit-I'm-actually-pregnant) shock, I inevitably wondered about the little fetus and its gender as it curled and turned in my womb. For me, it was all about the known versus the unknown.

The known was having a girl. I could prepare her for the world of periods and cramping. Gossip. Developing early (as in sprouting breasts in the 7th grade when you have to shop for real bras and your friends are just experimenting with the trainer ones). How the cool girls are just really insecure even though they can really be brutal, mean, and bitchy in their 12 - 15 year old experience. Excelling in math and science AND computers-- look at your mom, and all about the mystery of boys (well no solutions there other than yes they are an odd bunch). And let's not forget make-up, hand bags, funky socks and shoes. Hair coloring. The fun parts of fishing and camping (cause you need to show off to all those boys who don't think you'd be interested). And everything else about being a woman--cause I have EXPERIENCE in that field.

The unknown, was obviously rearing a boy. I was okay with this option--just a little more unsure and cautious. So much so, I warned my husband he'd have to provide all the technical details of puberty. And deal with fighting or bullying. And that whole sports hazing thing. Cause, well, I didn't have a clue. I could provide comfort, the sensitivity, and the whole how-to-treat-women (and the whole protection thing). I'd take care of making sure the boy could clean, cook, and even do his laundry (just as I would a daughter). And the rest, I'd just learn along the way. I knew this whole course of action would be a little bit harder route for me--because I didn't have the mind or experience of being a boy, teenage boy, or young man, but my husband did, so I was headed in the right direction.

But, similar to Andi Buchanan's experience, it was everyone else's comments that took me aback. My mother-in-law's insistence of having a boy so that I carry on the family name. Even so far as to purchase blue baby wear and It's a Boy receiving blankets even though morning sickness had just started and five-moth ultrasound light-years away. The co-worker, father of two boys, stating as fact, "The first eight years with boys are hard, after that it is cake compared to a girls' emotional roller coaster ride." Then there were the strangers' and their assessments, "Boys are better sleepers," "There is no better relationship than a boy to his mother," "Girls' will kill you with hormones," and so on. It never ceased to amaze me what unsolicited comments I received both before knowing the sex of my child and then when I knew with absolute certainty it was a boy (he wasn't shy for the one and only ultrasound).

But EVEN with all of this, the actual determination it was a boy, and then the actual birth, I STILL wasn't prepared for what happened AFTER he was born. Not only did the whole boys-are-easier-scheme continue (which was now just a pleasantry), I became ridiculed for having a Mama's Boy. This coming from some of the very same people that WANTED me to have a boy, or insinuated that this was a better alternative to having a girl! The realization that my little baby boy was suddenly a toddler when he went to hit me in a fit of aggression when I took away his favorite toy. Or his fascination with all things that move on wheels, with wings, or on rails. He has fit every stereotype of an all-around boy-- dirty, rough, tumble, and quick to a temper. I've been hit, bit, kicked, licked, slurped, thrown at, and even sat on--all by a boy that was under three years old. All signs he definitely has the Y chromosome and a little testosterone in his system. But, I know I have done something right-- he's sensitive, gives me hugs (and even kisses) almost on a whim, and he enjoys drawing and painting as much as anyone (I think this has more to do with his father's career as a graphic designer but, I'll take credit anyway), snuggles while watching movies or when he wants some down time, not afraid of taking chances, and well, he's not a bully (and not a wimp), polite, an avid learner, and he tells me he loves me multiple times a day. What more can I ask for?

Not having a daughter (yet), I don't know what that relationship would be like, nor what her personality, likes, dislikes, or favorite toys would be (wheels or not), but I can only hope it as enduring, exhilarating, frustrating, and proud as the one I have with my son.

So my point in all this is that in It's A Boy all the authors* and their stories don't hide from the truth. I mean these stories are all about honesty, no sugar-coating, admissions of guilt, fear, worry, judgments, and most importantly, and honest to goodness good read for a mom of any kind--but particularly how these moms are coping with raising sons. I give the collection a hearty five diapers and a bottle of wine. Don't forget this is a perfect gift for your best pregnant girlfriend-- she'll thank you later! [Buy the book here]

And if you want more info, here's what you can do:

• Read the Introduction
• Catch some tidbits about these essays Expectations by Stephany Aulenback, Exile in Guyville by Marrit Ingam, and You've Got Mail by Judy Mace (keep watching Andi's blog she's adding tidbits til the end of the tour)
  
• Check out other blog tour stops here, here, and here. Or check out the Blog Tour Schedule
• See an interview with Andi here.
• Read Andi's blog
• Visit literarymama.com
• *Go to all the contributing author sites: Stephany Aulenback, Karen Bender, Kathryn Black, Robin Bradford, Gayle Brandeis, Faulkner Fox, Katie Allison Granju, Ona Gritz, Gwendolen Gross, Melanie Lynn Hauser, Marrit Ingman, Susan Ito, Suzanne Kamata, Katie Kaput, Jennifer Lauck, Caroline Leavitt, Jody Mace, Jennifer Margulis, Jacquelyn Mitchard, Catherine Newman, Sue O'Doherty, Marjorie Osterhout, Jamie Pearson, Lisa Peet, Jodi Picoult, Maura Rhodes, Rochelle Shapiro, Kate Staples, and Marion Winik.

** Oh, and if you like this book, It's a Girl: Women Writers on Raising Daughters will be released in April 2006.

Labels: author, blog tour, books, reviews

12:09 AM | Permalink | 2 comments