When the mysterious Dr. Fell moves into the abandoned house that had once been the neighborhood kids' hangout, he immediately builds a playground to win them over. But as the ever-changing play space becomes bigger and more elaborate, the children and their parents fall deeper under the doctor's spell.
Only Jerry, Nancy, and Gail are immune to the lure of his extravagant wonderland. And they alone notice that when the injuries begin to pile up on the jungle gym, somehow Dr. Fell is able to heal each one with miraculous speed. Now the three children must find a way to uncover the doctor's secret power without being captivated by his trickery.
Disclosure: GMB uses affiliate links, clicking and making a purchase may result in a small commission for me.
Source: I received this book for free from the author. My opinions are my own.
BOOK DETAILS:
Dr. Fell and the Playground of Doom by David Neilsen, read by the author, published by Listening Library (2016) / Length: 5hrs 23min
SUMMARY:
I think the scariest part of this book is how alone these children are in their efforts to figure out what is happening. It is a common theme in MG & YA books that the adults are somehow not there (or the kid's fail to consult them). In this book they are there, but (for reasons I won't reveal) are of no help whatsoever. That seems worse to me somehow.
CHARACTERS:
The main characters are Nancy, her best friend Gwen & Gwen's younger brother Jerry. Nancy lives with her divorced mother (with whom she has a strained relationship), and she has a habit of calling Jerry names & treating him less than kindly. Gwen is nice, but not as strong or forceful. And Jerry is a thinker. The three have to learn to work together.
The antagonist, Dr. Fell, is beyond creepy.
WORLDBUILDING:
For the most part, the book takes place in a typical suburban neighborhood. However scary, most likely magical things appear to be taking place.
PLOT:
Just like the Playground from the title, the mystery at the center of the book starts small and continues to grow. There are some great action scenes at the end (which may be a bit much for young children and those with intense arachnophobia). The book has a satisfactory ending with some good character growth, but there remains the possibility of a sequel.
HIGHLIGHTS:
The solution (accidentally discovered) to Gwen's problem Old Lady Witherton, watch out if she gets bothered
NARRATION:
My experiences with author narrated audiobooks have been mixed. Thankfully Mr. Neilsen has a very nice voice that I quite enjoyed. Those who prefer to have character voices which match the age & gender of the characters need to know that his voice is quite deep, and therefore never sounds young or feminine. He did a good job of portraying character & emotion though.
NOTE: I am currently on a semi-hiatus due to very limited internet access. Comments are appreciated, but may not be responded to; I am sorry.
I am proud to have been asked to partner with AudioFile Magazine in announcing their "2016 Best Science Fiction & Fantasy Audiobooks." For more information on their choices, in this and other genres, check out their complete multimedia 2016 Best Audiobooks E-zine. Visit between Dec 1 and Dec 16 and be entered to win a 6-month subscription to Audiobooks.com.
Hover over the cover to read the publisher's summary
Click the cover to open AudioFile Magazine's review
1) AGE OF MYTH by Michael J. Sullivan, read by Tim Gerard Reynolds
2) ALIEN: OUT OF THE SHADOWS by Tim Lebbon & Dirk Maggs, read by Multiple Narrators
3) ALL THE BIRDS IN THE SKY by Charlie Jane Anders, read by Alyssa Bresnahan
4) BATTLEFIELD EARTH by L. Ron Hubbard, read by a Full Cast,
5) CAPTAIN TO CAPTAIN by Greg Cox, read by Robert Petkoff
6) GHOST TALKERS by Mary Robinette Kowal, read by the author
7) JERUSALEM by Alan Moore, read by Simon Vance
8) MARVEL: DAREDEVIL by Kevin Smith, Joe Quesada, Richard Rohan [Adapt.], read by a Full Cast
9) SERENGETI by J.B. Rockwell, read by Elizabeth Wiley
10) THE CITY OF MIRRORS by Justin Cronin, read by Scott Brick
11) THE CITY ON THE EDGE OF FOREVER by Harlan Ellison, read by Multiple Narrators
12) THE FIREMAN by Joe Hill, read by Kate Mulgrew
13) THE OBELISK GATE by N.K. Jemisin, read by Robin Miles
14) THE SUDDEN APPEARANCE OF HOPE by Claire North, read by Gillian Burke
15) VERSION CONTROL by Dexter Palmer, read by January LaVoy
Since I have been reviewing a lot of backlist titles this year, the only one of these that I have reviewed so far is Battlefield Earth. You can read my 4 star review here. Interestingly enough, when I posted this review on Amazon, I was accused of being a Scientologist shill. In actuality, the only thing I know about Scientology is what I've seen on the tabloid covers while waiting in line at the grocery store. The fact is that, regardless of the author's beliefs, this is one of the most incredible & "cinematic" audio productions I've ever listened to and fully deserves to be on any 2016 "best of" list.
And one more time...
I am proud to have been asked to partner with AudioFile Magazine in announcing their "2016 Best Science Fiction & Fantasy Audiobooks." For more information on their choices, in this and other genres, check out their complete multimedia 2016 Best Audiobooks E-zine. Visit between Dec 1 and Dec 16 and be entered to win a 6-month subscription to Audiobooks.com.
Note: I am currently up to my earbuds in Cybils Awards listening, and not responding promptly to comments - sorry.
]]>The Sunday Post, hosted by Kimba @Caffeinated Book Reviewer, is a chance to share News. A post to recap the past week, showcase books and things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.
Caution: Her site has sidebar ads that sometimes contain cover images which may be offensive to some.
I am actually a bit overwhelmed contemplating all the things I would love to do with my blog in the new year. The reality is that I will probably reduce the number of regular posts I do for awhile, in order to give me time to explore other improvements & upgrades. I am already playing around with some different options for my review format. My main goals are to improve the quality of what is available on the blog and establish better social media habits.
I feel that by reducing the pressure to churn out posts, I can work on becoming a better blogger. Then I can increase my posting schedule again.
"Sci-Fi Month is a month-long blog event, that I [Rinn Reads] hosted for the first time in 2013, created to celebrate everything amazing about science fiction. From TV shows to movies, books to comics, and everything else in between, it was intended to help us share our love and passion for this genre and its many, many fandoms. It was such a success – and I honestly wasn’t expecting that many people to join in – that people were already asking in December whether it would be held again the next year!
Sci-Fi Month has a schedule that all participants can add to, meaning everyone can clearly see what is being posted each day. This also encourages participants to comment on and visit other blogs." You can also follow on Twitter @SciFiMonth and/or #RRSciFiMonth
On GMB: Last week SUN: I Am Experiencing Technical Difficulties | Sunday Summary #28 MON: Balconies & Spilt Drinks: SF Movie Memories | Top Ten Tuesday TUE: Will We Ever Be Better?: Little Fuzzy | Review - ★★★★ Adult SF WED: Lost, Lamp, Light | New Audiobook Releases FRI: Alliance of Isian | Review - ★★★½ YA Fantasy On GMB: Coming Up MON: 5 Things I'm Grateful for as a New Blogger | My Musings TUE: Inside Out | Review - ★★★★ YA SciFi WED: New Audiobook Releases SAT: Beautiful Friendship | Review - ★★★★ MG SciFI SUN: Sunday Summary #30 Exploring Cyberspace "How to read more books?" by Simone @ Girl with Cloudy Head (Sorry, I can't remember who recommended this.) "Lately I looked at my Goodreads challenge and I was surprised by the number showing up. I've read 78 books yet and it's the middle of the year!!!! For someone it might not be much but for me it's record. That's crazy! I don't even know how that happened because I had uni, I was getting enough sleep as well as social life. Though I think I might know what it did so let's jump right to my tips and tricks on how to read more books. I know you want to read faster. We all have that big TBR pile that's threatening us with cruel death." "Is social media for your blog worth it?" by Samantha @ Book MinxDisclosure: Clicking & making a purchase from any section below may result in a small commission for me.
I read/listened to the following for the first time (all but the first are for the CYBILS):
(Hover over cover to read description)
Disclaimer: Unless otherwise noted, I have not read these books and thus can't give content warnings.
Note: these books may or may not still be free (please verify before purchasing).
All the Kindle books I acquired that have Audible versions available.
Some of the other Kindle books I acquired.
*Whispersync price (subject to change). Must purchase Audible version after obtaining a Kindle copy to get the discount.
Talk to Me (pretty please) What Goals do you have for 2017? What's your most effective tip for tackling your TBR? What's your favorite social media tip?--
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War is coming and all the kingdoms must choose a side. Isian decides to make an alliance with their long-time enemies in order to defeat a common enemy. So Isian sends a proposal, offering their daughter to the prince, in order to ensure an alliance. Princess Gabrielle and her new husband, Prince Alec must learn to work together and trust each other in order to triumph in the approaching war. With a mysterious beast attacking the kingdom, their lives in danger, and overcoming their vast cultural differences, will love grow despite their trials?
Disclosure: GMB uses affiliate links, clicking and making a purchase may result in a small commission for me.
Source: I received this book for free from the publisher. My opinions are my own.
BOOK DETAILS:
The Alliance of Isian by Serena Clarke, read by Carolyn Kashner, published by Red Mountain Shadows (2016) / Length: 7 hrs 30 min
SERIES INFO:
This is Book #2 of 3 in the "Isian" series, but could easily be read as a standalone. Number 3 is not yet available on audio.
SUMMARY:
In my review for Book #1, I wrote how that book didn't really appeal to me until the final third of the story. Thankfully, this book was more enjoyable almost from the start. I still feel that there isn't anything outstanding here, and that the dialog often seems too contemporary, but it was a sweet fantasy romance.
I have tagged the book with diversity, as Gabrielle and her family are POC and their country has different customs & culture.
CHARACTERS:
Gabrielle: Once we got past the beginning, she was a sympathetic character caught in a difficult situation.
Alec: I think the book would have benefited from some chapters from his POV. I never quite felt as if the present day Alec & the Alec from the first time they met were the same person. In fact, despite the flashback and what it implied, I connected more with him for the first couple of chapters.
Gabrielle & Alec: An alternating POV would have benefited the development of the romance as well. I like that they grew closer when they made the effort to spend time together & talk about things and struggled when they forgot to do that. My favorite aspect of the romance was that such things were important, rather than only how blue his eyes are or how beautiful she is.
WORLDBUILDING:
This book gives us another country, in the less magical portion of this world. I would have liked a deeper exploration of the difference in culture and how that would impact things. I would also have liked more details on the magic.
PLOT:
As I stated above, not having Alec's POV meant that the beginning was a bit rocky. Trying to connect how they were in the past to how they are now wasn't as easy as I would have liked. Also, although I disapprove of drunkenness & infidelity, Gabrielle's initial judgmental attitude was off putting.
I think it would have been better if the flashback to their first meeting had been held for later. Then, even without his POV, we would have had a firmer grasp of who they were (or appeared to be) now.
The pacing was better in this one. There was a reveal towards the end that didn't surprise me at all, since I had guessed it from the minute something happened.
The ending, wrapped things up for this portion of the story quite well. But the overall arc of the impending war was left open for next book.
HIGHLIGHTS:
The get-away cottage Alec buys her a gift
NARRATION:
The narration was better in this one, although still not above average. I still like the Isian accent and the speed was good.
BOOK DETAILS:
The Alliance of Isian (Isian #2) by Serena Clarke, read by Carolyn Kashner, published by Red Mountain Shadows (2016) / Length: 7 hrs 30 min Buy Now | +Goodreads
Talk to Me (pretty please) What is your favorite clean fantasy romance? Do you like alternative POVs, or prefer to stick with one as in this book?--
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This review will be linked up with the following (hover for descriptions):
Each week there are dozens of SciFi/Fantasy audiobooks released; I highlight the most talked about and/or interesting looking ones. The first person to correctly identify which 3 books below I took the key words in the title from will get a virtual shout-out in next week's post & tweet. (I'm doing this to try and make it more fun for me to improve my titles.)
Disclosure: GMB uses affiliate links, clicking and making a purchase may result in a small commission for me.
Disclaimer: Unless otherwise noted, I have not read these books and thus can't give content warnings.
Due to technical difficulties I have been having with the cover images, this post covers the past two weeks. I am still occasionally experiencing disappearing & reappearing images, for which I apologize.
Alternative Detective, Book #1: Steeplejack
By: AJ Hartley / Narrator: Noma Dumezweni / Pub: Audible Studios / Length: 11:25
"Seventeen-year-old Anglet Sutonga, makes a living repairing the chimneys, towers, and spires of Bar-Selehm. Dramatically different communities live and work alongside one another. The white Feldish command the nation’s higher echelons of society; the native Mahweni are divided between city life and the savannah. And then there’s Ang, part of the Lani community who immigrated there generations ago and now mostly live in poverty on Bar-Selehm’s edges.
When Ang is supposed to meet her new apprentice, Berrit, she finds him dead. That same night the Beacon, an invaluable historical icon, is stolen. The Beacon’s theft commands the headlines, yet no one seems to care about Berrit’s murder—except for Josiah Willinghouse, an enigmatic young politician. When he offers Ang a job investigating the death, she plunges headlong into new and unexpected dangers.
Meanwhile, crowds gather in protests over the city’s mounting troubles. Rumors surrounding the Beacon’s theft grow. More suspicious deaths occur. With no one to help Ang except Josiah’s haughty younger sister, a savvy newspaper girl, and a kindhearted herder, Ang must rely on her intellect and strength to resolve the mysterious link between Berrit and the missing Beacon before the city descends into chaos."
Whispersync Deal Alert*: Audible = $3.99.
Heartless
By: Marissa Meyer / Narrator: Rebecca Soler / Pub: Macmillan Audio / Length: 14:34
"Long before she was the terror of Wonderland, she was just a girl who wanted to fall in love. Catherine may be one of the most desired girls in Wonderland, and a favorite of the unmarried King of Hearts, but her interests lie elsewhere. A talented baker, all she wants is to open a shop with her best friend. But according to her mother, such a goal is unthinkable for the young woman who could be the next queen.
Then Cath meets Jest, the handsome and mysterious court joker. For the first time, she feels the pull of true attraction. At the risk of offending the king and infuriating her parents, she and Jest enter into an intense, secret courtship. Cath is determined to define her own destiny and fall in love on her terms. But in a land thriving with magic, madness, and monsters, fate has other plans."
Star Wars: Catalyst (A Rogue One Novel)
By: James Luceno / Narrator: Jonathan Davis / Pub: Random House Audio / Length: 11:15
"The must-have prequel novel to Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, the upcoming film set before the events of Star Wars: A New Hope, that reveals the untold story of the rebel effort to steal the plans to the Death Star."
(Popular books that are now available on Audio)
Crystal Frost, Book #1: Fire in Frost
By: Alicia Rades / Narrator: Kim Reiko / Length: 5:07
"Crystal Frost tells herself she isn't crazy, but sane people don't see ghosts. As her psychic abilities manifest, Crystal discovers there's a much bigger story behind her mother's Halloween-themed shop than she ever realized. Now blessed with the ability to see into the future, witness the past, and speak with the dead, Crystal must use these tools to save those who have come to her for help.
But that's not an easy task between learning how to use her abilities, trying to hide them, and uncovering the secrets her loved ones have been keeping from her. Add blackmail to the list of things Crystal never thought would happen to her, and you basically have her sophomore year covered. Will she learn to control her abilities in time, or will the whole school learn of her secret before she's ready to reveal it?"
Whispersync Deal Alert*: Kindle + Audible = $1.99.
Emily Chambers, Book #1: The Medium
By: CJ Archer / Narrator: Gemma Dawson / Pub: Tantor Audio / Length: 9:27
"Seventeen-year-old spirit medium Emily Chambers has a problem. Actually, she has several. As if seeing dead people isn't a big enough social disadvantage, she also has to contend with an escaped demon and a handsome ghost with a secret past. And then there's the question of her parentage. Being born an entire year after her father's death (yes, a year) and without the pale skin of other respectable English ladies, Emily is as much a mystery as the dead boy assigned to her.
Jacob Beaufort's spirit has been unable to cross over since his death. It might have something to do with the fact he was murdered. Or it might not. All he knows is he has been assigned by the Otherworld's administrators to a girl named Emily. A girl who can see and touch him. A girl who released a shape-shifting demon into the mortal realm. Together they must send the demon back before it wreaks havoc on London. It should be a simple assignment, but they soon learn there's nothing simple when a live girl and a dead "
Whispersync Deal Alert*: Kindle + Audible = $2.99.
Extraordinaries, Book #1: Burning Bright
By: Melissa McShane / Narrator: Cat Gould / Pub: Tantor Audio / Length: 12:49
"In 1812, Elinor Pembroke wakes to find her bedchamber in flames—and extinguishes them with a thought. At 21, she is old to manifest magical talent, but the evidence is unmistakable: she not only has the ability to start fires, but the far more powerful ability to control and extinguish them. She is an Extraordinary, and the only one in England capable of wielding fire in over one hundred years.
As an Extraordinary, she is respected and feared, but to her father, she represents power and prestige for himself. Mr. Pembroke, having spent his life studying magic, is determined to control Elinor and her talent by forcing her to marry where he chooses, a marriage that will produce even more powerful offspring. Trapped between the choices of a loveless marriage or living penniless and dependent on her parents, Elinor takes a third path: she defies tradition and society to join the Royal Navy.
Assigned to serve under Captain Miles Ramsay aboard the frigate Athena, she turns her fiery talent on England’s enemies, French privateers and vicious pirates preying on English ships in the Caribbean. At first feared by her shipmates, a growing number of victories make her truly part of Athena’s crew and bring her joy in her fire. But as her power grows and changes in unexpected ways, Elinor’s ability to control it is challenged. She may have the power to destroy her enemies utterly—but could it be at the cost of her own life?"
Whispersync Deal Alert*: Kindle + Audible = $9.48.
In Times Like These, Book #3: The Day After Never
By: Nathan Van Coops / Narrator: Neil Hellegers / Length: 19:05
"Ben Travers has gone missing, and Ben Travers needs to find him. Returning home from his harrowing adventures through time, Ben just wants a normal life with the girl he loves, but tying up the loose threads of his fragmented existence is proving more difficult than he ever suspected. Someone is attacking time travel labs - threatening the safety of the Quickly family - and Ben is getting messages from a version of himself that he thought was dead. When a strange cult of consciousness-shifting time travelers called The Eternals begins to worm its way into the past - endangering the very nature of time and space - Ben will have to solve the mystery of his own disappearance to stop them. He'll journey farther into time than he's ever been before, to protect the family and friends he has come to love, and to discover his own inevitable destiny. Join Ben and Mym in this third novel in the In Times Like These time travel adventure series."
Whispersync Deal Alert*: Kindle + Audible = $6.98.
Haven't started this series yet? Check out Book #1
Overworld Chronicles, Book #2: Dark Light of Mine
By: John Corwin / Narrator: Austin Rising / Length: 10:27
"Hellhounds ate my homework. Justin won Elyssa's heart and saved his dad from rogue vampires, but just when he thinks he can ride off into the sunset on a white horse, trouble not only knocks on his door, it plows through it with hellhounds. Spawn relatives with their own agendas, vampires running amok, and his father marked for death - it seems there's no end to the kinds of monsters out to make Justin's life miserable. It's almost enough to make him long for the days of man boobs, Kings and Castles, and nerd status. With a list of impossible quests growing faster than he can keep up, tracking down the deadliest assassin in the world may prove easier than winning the approval of Elyssa's parents. The clock ticking, and dark forces on his heels, Justin gets a crash course in the mysteries and dangers of the Overworld. But with Elyssa by his side and his growing menagerie of friends, impossible odds suddenly seem possible again."
Whispersync Deal Alert*: Kindle + Audible = $4.98.
Haven't started this series yet? Check out Book #1
Pax Arcana, Book #4: In Shining Armor
By: Elliott James / Narrator: Roger Wayne / Pub: Tantor Audio / Length: 11:43
"When someone kidnaps the last surviving descendant of the Grandmaster of the Knights Templar, it's bad news. When the baby is the key to the tenuous alliance between a large werewolf pack and the knights, it's even worse news. They're at each other's throats before they've even begun to look for baby Constance.
But whoever kidnapped Constance didn't count on one thing: she's also the goddaughter of John Charming. Modern-day descendant of a long line of famous dragon slayers, witch finders, and wrong righters. John may not have any experience being a parent, but someone is about to find out that he can be one mean mother..."
Whispersync Deal Alert*: Audible = $3.99.
Haven't started this series yet? Check out Book #1
Protectors of the Spear, Book #1: She Walks in Power
By: MaryLu Tyndall / Narrator: Anna Parker-Naples / Pub: Tantor Audio / Length: 10:03
"Alexia D'Clere didn't ask to be Protector of the Spear, but after her dying mother gave her the tiny metal object and made her promise to keep it safe, she had no choice. Orphaned at age eight, she began to take over the running of her parent's castle with the help of a trusted steward. Yet, when a plot to murder her was revealed, a friar whisked her away to live hidden in the forest. There, she learned to shoot expertly with bow and arrow and hone her skills to see into the spirit realm.
Now, at eighteen, Alexia continues to keep the Spear protected, provide meat for the starving village, while secretly caring for her ill sister who still lives in the castle. With Alexia's powers of spiritual discernment and her skill as an archer, she is no match for those who come for the spear. That is until she meets Ronar LePeine, one of the King's elite guard.
Ronar desires nothing more than to do his duty to God and King and pay penance for past sins. Yet a forest sprite with red, flaming hair blocks his every move, all the while enchanting him like no other. Something evil lurks at Castle Luxley, and both Ronar and Alexia are soon thrust into the middle of a spiritual battle which will not only test their very beliefs, but put them both in mortal danger."
Whispersync Deal Alert*: Kindle + Audible = $8.48.
Return of the Elves, Book #1: Soulbound
By: Bethany Adams / Narrator: Gabrielle de Cuir & Stephan Rudnicki / Pub: Skyboat Media / Length: 10:56
"A deathbed promise. Arlyn's quest is simple: Find her father and let him know her mother is dead. After all, Arlyn had promised her mother she'd go. The problem? Her father's people are myths and legends, and he doesn't even live on Earth. But despite a long journey through the mysterious mists of the Veil, finding him turns out to be the easy part.
A dream long buried. After 500 years, Kai has given up on finding his soulbonded. So when he stumbles across Arlyn after returning from his latest mission and recognizes her as his mate, Kai starts their bond in haste. But he never could have imagined that his bonded is his best friend's newfound daughter. Whoops.
A hidden conspiracy sparked to life. Though the sight of Kai makes Arlyn's heart pound, she isn't sure she can forgive him for starting their bond without her permission. But her love life is the least of her problems. Her father is an elf lord, and his sudden acknowledgment of a half-human heir reignites the same conspiracy that took him away from her mother in the first place. Now Arlyn and her family must face iron-wielding assassins, bigotry, and her newly awakened magical abilities if they hope to come through in one piece. "
Whispersync Deal Alert*: Kindle + Audible = $5.98.
Way of the Shaman, Book #3: The Secret of the Dark Forest
By: Vasily Mahanenko / Narrator: Jonathan Yen / Pub: Tantor Audio / Length: 19:01
"The Virtual World of Barliona is a place of rest and entertainment - but not for everyone. It has become a survival arena for Daniel Mahan after he was sentenced to 8 years in its virtual jail. Mahan has been through it all: the back-breaking work in the mines, betrayal by other prisoners, and finally, the retrial which has released him into Barliona's common world. What more could one want? Mahan could have kept a low profile and enjoy relative freedom while serving the rest of his time. But being a Shaman, he can't help himself. Soon he's a clan leader, taking fifty of the continent's top players to claim the secrets of the Dark Forest."
Haven't started this series yet? Check out Book #1
Young Wizards, Book #10: Games Wizards Play
By: Diane Duane / Narrator: Christiana Moore / Pub: Recorded Books / Length: 15:09
"Every 11 years, Earth's senior wizards hold the Invitational: an intensive three-week event where the planet's newest, sharpest young wizards show off their best and hottest spells. Wizardly partners Kit Rodriguez and Nita Callahan, and Nita's sister, former wizard-prodigy Dairine Callahan, are drafted in to mentor two brilliant and difficult cases: for Nita and Kit, there's Penn Shao-Feng, a would-be sun technician with a dangerous new take on managing solar weather; and for Dairine, there's shy young Mehrnaz Farrahi, an Iranian wizard-girl trying to specialize in defusing earthquakes while struggling with a toxic extended wizardly family that demands she perform to their expectations.
Together they're plunged into a whirlwind of cutthroat competition and ruthless judging. Penn's egotistical attitude toward his mentors complicates matters as the pair tries to negotiate their burgeoning romance. Meanwhile, Dairine struggles to stabilize her hero-worshipping, insecure protégée against the interference of powerful relatives using her to further their own tangled agendas. When both candidates make it through to the finals stage on the dark side of the Moon, they and their mentors are flung into a final conflict that could change the solar system for the better or damage Earth beyond even wizardly repair."
Whispersync Deal Alert*: Audible = $3.99.
Haven't started this series yet? Check out Book #1
(Hover over cover to read description)
*Prices subject to change. Must purchase Audible version after obtaining a Kindle copy to get the discount.
Talk to Me (pretty please) Have you already read any of these books? Feel free to type in the URL to your review. (Booklikes doesn't appear to accept html formatting in the Comments.) Did you already purchase (pre-ordered or manually) anything released this week? Or, has anything gone Straight to Your Wishlist?--
If you are a first time visitor, how did you discover my blog?
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The chartered Zarathustra Company had it all their way. Their charter was for a Class III uninhabited planet, which Zarathustra was, and it meant they owned the planet lock stock and barrel. They exploited it, developed it and reaped the huge profits from it without interference from the Colonial Government. Then Jack Holloway, a sunstone prospector, appeared on the scene with his family of Fuzzies and the passionate conviction that they were not cute animals but little people.
Whispersync Deal Alert*: Kindle + Audible = $1.99 (must obtain Kindle copy first, prices may change)
Disclosure: GMB uses affiliate links, clicking and making a purchase may result in a small commission for me.
BOOK DETAILS:
Little Fuzzy by H Beam Piper, read by Peter Ganim, published by Audible Studios (2009) / Length: 6 hrs 25 min
SERIES INFO:
This is Book #1 of the "Fuzzy Sapiens," series and the only one available on audio. Note: two of the sequels were written by Piper, with some additional ones that were written by other people. There is also a "reboot" of this novel written by John Scalzi.
SUMMARY:
I have been rereading a lot of classic SF now that I have a blog, and some of them have really made me cringe. This one isn't quite as bad. My biggest problem with it lies in the, I really hope we eventually outgrow such behavior, colonial attitudes. It is made clear from the beginning that proving that the Fuzzies are sentient won't mean that their planet will be given back, just that it will be governed differently.
CHARACTERS:
Jack: He's an old codger you definitely shouldn't mess with, but he's actually quite amiable (rather than cranky). There are tons of interesting tidbits thrown out about him, but never explained. When did he set off a thermonuke? Who did he leave behind? How did he end up on Zarathustra, and does he have any plans for the wealth he may find prospecting.
As is typical for almost all classic SF written by men, the ratio of men to women is way above 50%. The only main female character, Ruth, is at least intelligent & educated and contributes significantly to the outcome.
Also, most of the characters appear to pretty un-diverse. There is one man named Akmed. He is described as being the local police leader's "driver," but I think he is simply the officer who "rides" with the chief & does the driving rather than a menial. He also seems intelligent and is sympathetic to the Fuzzies.
WORLDBUILDING:
This planet has a wealth of strange flora & fauna. And I love the way they name things (if a planet is known to be inhabited, they ask a native and write down whatever they say, regardless of whether it is an answer or not).
There isn't a lot of truly advanced technology, other than space travel, from our current prospective. The most out-dated technology is the lack of digital media & data transmission. They still use tape & film.
PLOT:
The book starts with a chapter or two of Jack just going about his daily routine, before introducing the first Fuzzy. I think this is important as a contrast to how isolated his life was before they showed up.
There is a lot of exposition & discussion of the concept of sapience that may become boring to those who prefer action stories.
Although there have been sequels written (both by Piper & others), this book really can stand on it's own. It ends with the ruling and subsequent consequences & plans.
HIGHLIGHTS:
A custom that has developed for formal video communications is for people to "shake hands" by each using a "Chinese" like shaking your own hands gesture. The agent is revealed Although there's a lot of social drinking going on, Jack avoids drinking away his problems (and another character is struggling with that) "Take a drink because you pity yourself, and then the drink pities you and has a drink, and then two good drinks get together and that calls for drinks all around."CONTENT NOTES: There is a lot of smoking & drinking going on. / This is the wild west of the galaxy, i.e. when Jack shot people who tried to rob him, it was listed as suicide / There is a brutal (though not gory) murder.
NARRATION:
Character voices differentiated = Yes / Opposite sex voices acceptable = Yes / Accents = There are some, but who can judge them in the far future. They didn't bother me. / Phrasing, Pacing & Pronunciation = Fine / Emoting = Good / Speed = listened on 1.25, my usual, and it was a touch fast. / I heard 1 or 2 small errors.
He has a very deep voice, that I didn't love. Mostly I think this is a case where I'm neutral on the narrator. He didn't distract from my enjoyment, but didn't increase it either.
BOOK DETAILS:
Little Fuzzy (Fuzzy Sapiens #1) by H Beam Piper, read by Peter Ganim, published by Audible Studios (2009) / Length: 6 hrs 25 min Buy Now | +Goodreads
Talk to Me (pretty please) What's your favorite book on the topic of gaining recognition as real "people" for aliens, robots, etc? If we were to discover a more primitive sentient race, which way would you lean - Minimal contact/contamination or Mentors?--
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Top Ten Tuesday, hosted by The Broke and the Bookish, “was created because we are particularly fond of lists here at The Broke and the Bookish. We'd love to share our lists with other bookish folks and would LOVE to see your top ten lists!”
"Sci-Fi Month is a month-long blog event, that I [Rinn Reads] hosted for the first time in 2013, created to celebrate everything amazing about science fiction. From TV shows to movies, books to comics, and everything else in between, it was intended to help us share our love and passion for this genre and its many, many fandoms. It was such a success – and I honestly wasn’t expecting that many people to join in – that people were already asking in December whether it would be held again the next year!
Sci-Fi Month has a schedule that all participants can add to, meaning everyone can clearly see what is being posted each day. This also encourages participants to comment on and visit other blogs." You can also follow on Twitter @SciFiMonth and/or #RRSciFiMonth
Disclosure: GMB uses affiliate links, clicking and making a purchase may result in a small commission for me.
I had a different post planned for today, but it didn't work out. So I decided to throw together a quick TTT list for the movie freebie week. This being Sci-Fi Month, it just had to be SF focused of course. (Since this is being done last minute, there are only 5 entries.)
I come from a large family that has always enjoyed movies, especially SF & Fantasy ones. Movie quotes were frequently sprinkled throughout our conversations, and quote quizzes helped keep us entertained in the car. Watching favorite movies together is still a big part of social occasions (although hard on new in-laws, since we talk to the screen a lot).
Here are 5 SF movies that have fun/special memories attached.
(covers link to Amazon)
Frequency - The first time I watched this, I thought that one of my brother's would really enjoy it also. So I got it for him as a gift. The next time I needed to get him a gift, I forgot I had already given him this and got it a second time. It wasn't until I gave it to him a third time that he said something, and that it became a family joke. Now whenever gifts come up I tell him, "actually, there's this really great movie I think you'd like..."
Galaxy Quest - I might not have ever seen this one if it hadn't been for a wonky double date. One of my younger brothers (not the same one as above) was trying to get a girl to go out with him and so we arranged for me & my boyfriend at the time to double with them. She ended up changing her mind though, so we brought one of my sisters along instead to keep things even. The "boys" picked the movie, and we weren't too impressed with the selection at first but ended up loving it and having a wonderful time. (That was also my first time eating at Olive Garden, though not the last since it is another sister's favorite.)
Independence Day
Well before the Galaxy Quest date, I took that same brother to see this movie for his birthday. He still occasionally reminds me that I spilled my drink all over him when the doctor is slammed against the glass by the alien. (That was also the first time that all the adults kept talking to my newly tall "little brother," rather than me, despite the fact that he is 10 years younger.)
The Return of the Jedi
This was the first movie I ever stood in line for on opening day. It was me and the rest of my family at the tiny (one smallish screen) theater closest to the "middle of nowhere" wide spot in the road where I grew up.
(The last movie I stood in line for on opening day was The Return of the King, also with my entire family. See below for "the rest of the story.")
This was the first movie I ever saw at the huge (& awesome) Cinerama theater in Seattle. It was a late night showing and we were able to grab middle seats in the front row of the balcony.
(The last movie I saw here was TRotK. And despite the fact that it was opening day, and I had my whole family there, we were able to grab awesome seats near the front center of the balcony.)
--
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The Sunday Post, hosted by Kimba @Caffeinated Book Reviewer, is a chance to share News. A post to recap the past week, showcase books and things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.
Caution: Her site has sidebar ads that sometimes contain cover images which may be offensive to some.
Thank you so much to everyone who expressed concern for my sister, the prayers and good wishes were much appreciated. She is doing better for now, and they are holding off on deciding whether or not she will need surgery.
I am dealing with two new problems this week, but they are more garden variety issues. I am completely unable to access my personal Yahoo email. It keeps telling me that my password is invalid. I have reset the password, I have answered the security questions. I have tried in every browser on every device I own. I was briefly able to access it on Chrome, but that didn't last. I have cleared caches & cookies, used safe mode, etc. The really frustrating thing is that I can't even get the help forum to let me post.
I have had other problems with Yahoo for a while now, and have decided that I will just drop it. My main concern is that I can't access it to get contact information for everyone. And I am concerned about how to change my email on official accounts, when I don't have access to the old one.
My other problem is that the blog has been experiencing disappearing & reappearing cover graphics. This week, for the first time in over 6 months, I didn't publish a "New Audiobook Releases" post because of it. I haven't yet been able to figure out if the problem is on the Booklikes end or the Amazon one. I have definitely learned my lesson about not including an "alt" attribute though.
"Sci-Fi Month is a month-long blog event, that I [Rinn Reads] hosted for the first time in 2013, created to celebrate everything amazing about science fiction. From TV shows to movies, books to comics, and everything else in between, it was intended to help us share our love and passion for this genre and its many, many fandoms. It was such a success – and I honestly wasn’t expecting that many people to join in – that people were already asking in December whether it would be held again the next year!
Sci-Fi Month has a schedule that all participants can add to, meaning everyone can clearly see what is being posted each day. This also encourages participants to comment on and visit other blogs." You can also follow on Twitter @SciFiMonth and/or #RRSciFiMonth
On GMB: Last week SUN: I Survive a Rough Week | Sunday Summary #27 MON: Visions of the Future: Why Science Fiction is Important | My Musings TUE: NYC is Weirder than you Thought: Enchanted, Inc | Review - ★★★★ Adult Fantasy THU: A Soda Jerk in Space: Have Space Suit, Will Travel | Review - ★★★★ YA SciFi SAT: When Your Sanctuary is Threatened: Tris's Book | Review - ★★★★ MG Fantasy On GMB: Coming Up MON: Movies Freebie | Top Ten TuesdayDisclosure: Clicking & making a purchase from any section below may result in a small commission for me.
All of these are for the CYBILS Awards:
Thank you to Laura @ Field of Bookish Dreams & Terry Maggert.
(Hover over cover to read description)
Disclaimer: Unless otherwise noted, I have not read these books and thus can't give content warnings.
Note: these books may or may not still be free (please verify before purchasing).
All the Kindle books I acquired that have Audible versions available.
Some of the other Kindle books I acquired.
*Whispersync price (subject to change). Must purchase Audible version after obtaining a Kindle copy to get the discount.
Talk to Me (pretty please) Do you feel that blogging sometimes makes reading less enjoyable? Do you treat Giveaway wins as review copies when scheduling, or just read them when you have time?--
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Earthquake damage leaves Winding Circle vulnerable to pirate attack, so everyone - including the young mages-in-training Tris, Briar, Daja, and Sandry - is working to strengthen the community's defenses. When Tris's cousin Aymery comes to visit, he advises the "weather witch" to return to the family that exiled her, but she doesn't wish to leave her friends to face the threat without her.
As the onslaught begins, two things become terribly clear: The pirates have a powerful new weapon, and they have an accomplice within Winding Circle. But the attackers have failed to reckon with the fury of a young mage betrayed once too often and her very stubborn, very loyal friends.
Disclosure: GMB uses affiliate links, clicking and making a purchase may result in a small commission for me.
BOOK DETAILS:
Tris's Book by Tamora Pierce, read & published by Full Cast Audio (2004) / Length: 5 hrs 31 min
SERIES INFO:
This is Book #2 of 4 in the original "Circle of Magic" series, all of which are available on audio. There are also additional books (only some of which are on audio) with the same characters.
**This review may contain spoilers for the previous book.**
SUMMARY:
One of the things I like best about this series is the way that the children work with & along side their adult mentors as well as together. That really starts to be solidified in this book as they make both good and bad choices in that regard.
Another strong point of the series is the message that choices/actions have consequences. Tris & the others continue to deal with the emotional results of the ones they make in this book for many years.
CHARACTERS:
Although each book is named for one of the children, and the story line is partially driven by her/him, for the most part they all share equally in the action. In the last book, they wove their magic together to accomplish something they weren't individually strong enough to do. In this book, their magic begins to bleed a bit around edges.
Two great character moments are 1) when they are all at the breakfast table and Sandry accurately guesses what each of the others is probably thinking; and 2) when Nico tells Tris a combined spell won't work unless she trusts him, and she's all "of course" (a sharp contrast to her inability to trust anyone in the first book).
That's not to say that the 4 of them have completely changed and don't still have a ways to go before they move beyond their difficult backgrounds.
WORLDBUILDING:
As I stated in the previous book, Ms. Pierce does her usual incredible job in this area. There is such depth and breadth to the people & cultures who inhabit this world.
PLOT:
The plot is much more cohesive in this one. The end of the previous book is flashbacked, and each character is introduced & brought together very smoothly. Note: although you can easily get up to speed on the history & plot if you haven't read the previous book, you really will miss out on how far they have come already as characters.
Unlike the first book, this one has a single story line and set of antagonists. The current danger is dealt with by the end, but all 4 books are interwoven in so much that what happens in the previous ones helps to set up the trials they will face next.
HIGHLIGHTS:
The protective "net" and it's method of construction Because of her unique abilities, Daja is needed for a dangerous job. They explain it to her carefully and let her choose. Winding Circle's head chef Gorse. He is only in a couple of short parts, but he's definitely a scene stealer.
CONTENT NOTES: The pirates are definitely not romanticized, and there are some dark moments for a MG book. These include the story of a friend who was raped, and a scene where the pirates cold bloodedly kill several people who can't even fight back.
NARRATION:
Full Cast Audio did their usual wonderful job. There weren't any changes in the narrators for the main characters. There were some nice sounds effects this time.
BOOK DETAILS:
Tris's Book (Circle of Magic #2) by Tamora Pierce, read & published by Full Cast Audio (2004) / Length: 5 hrs 31 min Buy Now | +Goodreads
Talk to Me (pretty please) Can you recommend a good MG SFF where adults are an integral part of the action? Do you think MG books should deal with topics such as rape & murder?--
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Kip from midwest Centerville USA works the summer before college as a pharmacy soda jerk, and wins an authentic stripped-down spacesuit in a soap contest. He answers a distress radio call from Peewee, scrawny rag doll-clutching genius aged 11. With the comforting cop Mother Thing, three-eyed tripod Wormfaces kidnap them to the Moon and Pluto.
Disclosure: GMB uses affiliate links, clicking and making a purchase may result in a small commission for me.
Note: This version is not currently available on Audible, but physical copies can occasionally be found. The Buy links will take you to the available version.
BOOK DETAILS:
Have Spacesuit, Will Travel by Robert Heinlein, read & published by Full Cast Audio / Length: 8 hrs 3 min
SERIES INFO: This book is standalone.
SUMMARY:
If you have read and disliked others of Heinlein's "Juveniles," you aren't likely to appreciate this one either. But it is one of my favorites. I like the main characters alot; and, except for one section (see below), I really enjoyed their journey.
CHARACTERS:
Kip: The boy-next-door who goes on a marvelous adventures and proves that he's a hero. Although he is a bit "gee whiz," he's fun to spend time with. He is definitely a character who thinks, which is something I love.
PeeWee: She is highly intelligent, but not always smart. Her capture (which happened before Kip met her) was really her own fault for going off with some complete strangers (even a child from the era this was written in should have known better). That said, I like that she is very practical rather than the type of genius who can't cross the street safely. I also like that this very practical prodigy has a "dolly" she takes everywhere. In other words, she's not two dimensional. She is also slightly less annoying than many of Heinlein's young females.
WORLDBUILDING:
The portion of this book that take place on Earth suffers seriously from having been written so long ago. This is most obvious in the media, and the lack of computers. TV shows are still sponsored by a single company, rather than having modern commercials. And they don't appear to have gotten any more advanced technologically than before either.
The vocabulary was also very dated:
They had a "swell sock hop" at school. Kip used "honey" & other endearments (that are now more romantic) a lot when speaking with PeeWee. And he referred to someone as a "really likely looking chick," which I don't think was meant disrespectfully (since that doesn't fit his character). It was especially jarring to me every time Kip referred to PeeWee's "daddy" since few teens today would use that term.
In fact, as I am writing this review, I am wondering if Heinlein didn't do this on purpose. Although the book takes place in a future where man has moon bases, Earth life was pretty much exactly as was for his original readers.
Favorite piece of tech: the "gun" that looks more like a camera than anything else Earth like (since most SF weapons are just sleeker versions of our own).
PLOT:
I definitely think that it took much too long to get to the main action. I understand that this is likely because Heinlein was trying to emphasize that hard work can help you achieve your goals, so he had to show that work. I probably wouldn't have minded if the first section as much if it hadn't happened in a "future" that was so anachronistic that it felt like the past. That said, I didn't actually dislike it; I just felt it was too long.
I didn't enjoy the whole trial/examination section near the end of the book.
I like the way Kip's world has been expanded (on Earth as well) by his adventures, and how he has found a meaningful dream to pursue (rather than just a kid's dream of going to the moon because it seems cool).
HIGHLIGHTS:
The conversations with Oscar, he's actually my favorite "character" Kip's dream, especially all it's references to other SF adventures Kip's "dead hero" vs "live louse" philosophy.
I COULD HAVE DONE WITHOUT: The over abundance of math & electronics stuff (very typical of Heinlein). Especially the implication that I, who never could manage to get an "A" in math once I hit algebra, don't qualify as "educated." / Totally gruesome killing of an alien.
NARRATION:
The version I am reviewing was done by a Full Cast. They went all out, and gave it the heightened feeling of old-time SF programs such as Flash Gordon or Buck Rogers. All of the actors did a great job.
I am not usually a fan of between chapter music, but here it sort of fits the old timey TV show feeling of everything. The "trying not to cry" stuff wasn't very well done, and there was one mispronunciation.
BOOK DETAILS:
Have Spacesuit, Will Travel by Robert Heinlein, read & published by Full Cast Audio / Length: 8 hrs 3 min Buy Now | +Goodreads
Talk to Me (pretty please) Can you recommend a favorite classic YA SF book? Does outdated vocabulary/slang interrupt your enjoyment of a book?--
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Katie Chandler had always heard that New York is a weird and wonderful place, but this small-town Texas gal had no idea how weird until she moved there. Everywhere she goes, she sees something worth gawking at and Katie is afraid she's a little too normal to make a splash in the big city. Working for an ogre of a boss doesn't help. Then, seemingly out of the blue, Katie gets a job offer from Magic, Spells, and Illusions, Inc., a company that sells tricks of the trade to the magic community.
For MSI, Katie's ordinariness is an asset. Lacking any bit of magic, she can easily spot a fake spell, catch hidden clauses in competitor's contracts, and detect magically disguised intruders. Suddenly, average Katie is very special indeed. She quickly learns that office politics are even more complicated when your new boss is a real ogre, and you have a crush on the sexy, shy, ultra powerful head of the R&D department, who is so busy fighting an evil competitor threatening to sell black magic on the street that he seems barely to notice Katie.
Now it's up to Katie to pull off the impossible: save the world and - hopefully - live happily ever after.
Whispersync Deal Alert*: Kindle + Audible = $6.48 (must obtain Kindle copy first, prices may change)
Disclosure: GMB uses affiliate links, clicking and making a purchase may result in a small commission for me.
BOOK DETAILS:Enchanted, Inc by Shanna Swendson, read by Eva Wilhelm, published by Audible Studios (2014) / Length: 10 hrs 31 min
SERIES INFO:
This is Book #1 of 7 in the completed "Enchanted, Inc" series. All of them are available on audio.
SUMMARY:
I'm not a huge fan of Urban Fantasy, since I don't really like "dark" and so much of that genre merits the description. It was a real pleasure to find this comedic city based fantasy.
I wasn't pleased with the love triangle that developed later in the book, however.
CHARACTERS:
Katie: I like that she totally willing to the let the stronger people protect her from the "scary bad guys," yet jumps in whenever she can.
There are a lot of other characters in this book, but most of them are just supporting characters. Mr Mervyn is my favorite (although I'm not generally a fan of his story line). Owen is a sweetie, but doesn't get enough development in this book. Sam the gargoyle is another favorite, who I hope to see more of in the following books.
WORLDBUILDING:
So many NYC books & movies have their characters living in apartments that would be nice in other cities but are palatial for Manhattan. Ms. Swendson has 3 women living in a 1 bedroom fourth story walk-up (no elevator) and each paying enough for a 1 bedroom in my city. This is just one of the details that made me feel like I really was reading a book that takes place there.
Although technically this is an urban Fantasy (since it takes place in our largest city), it is not Urban Fantasy in tone. There are fairies & other fae type creatures, and humans who can use magic, but there don't appear to be any vampires or werewolves. And this is definitely light comedy.
PLOT:
It felt like it took a bit long to get to the good stuff. I would have liked a bit less set up of her situation at her old job. And some of the stuff with her friends could have been moved to after she gets her new job.
The main situation for this book is resolved at the end, so there isn't an actual cliffhanger. But the overall situations in the magical world and Katie's romantic life are completely unresolved.
HIGHLIGHTS / CAUTIONS:
The way she commuted to work in comfortable shoes and changed when she got there. I've totally done that lots of times. The scenes where she goes out with Mr. Mervyn to help him get used to the city (not on a date). The description of their Matrix wannabe opponents at the duel
CONTENT NOTES: One of Katie's roommates is completely comfortable spending the night with a man she just met. / A number of characters, including Katie, get drunk. / Some sexual innuendo.
I COULD HAVE DONE WITHOUT: The whole girls night out and frog kissing stuff just wasn't funny to me (although I know it sets up important stuff later).
NARRATION:
Character voices differentiated = Yes / Opposite sex voices acceptable = Yes, she mostly changes the tone of her voice for these / Accents = I really would have liked a bit more Texan, but Katie does try to suppress it. There wasn't much NY in anyone's accent, but that is actually consistent with my experiences in Manhattan / Phrasing, Pacing & Pronunciation = Good. I especially want to note that she pronounced Houston St the correct NYC way (how-ston) which few people do / Emoting = Good. I really liked it / Speed = listened on 1.25, my usual, and it was perfect
Her voice is a bit unusual. If that sometimes bothers you, be sure to check out the sample before buying.
BOOK DETAILS:
Enchanted, Inc (#1) by Shanna Swendson, read by Eva Wilhelm, published by Audible Studios (2014) / Length: 10 hrs 31 min Buy Now | +Goodreads
Talk to Me (pretty please) What's your favorite SFF book set in NYC? Does it bug you when you read a book that takes place somewhere you've lived and they get it all wrong? (Which this book didn't.)--
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"Sci-Fi Month is a month-long blog event, that I [Rinn Reads] hosted for the first time in 2013, created to celebrate everything amazing about science fiction. From TV shows to movies, books to comics, and everything else in between, it was intended to help us share our love and passion for this genre and its many, many fandoms. It was such a success – and I honestly wasn’t expecting that many people to join in – that people were already asking in December whether it would be held again the next year!
Sci-Fi Month has a schedule that all participants can add to, meaning everyone can clearly see what is being posted each day. This also encourages participants to comment on and visit other blogs." You can also follow on Twitter @SciFiMonth and/or #RRSciFiMonth
For me, the path to this post began when I realized that although I identify my favorite genre as Science Fiction (SF), I actually read & own a lot more Fantasy (F). This contributed to changes I made in my posting schedule which attempts a strict alternating of SF & F reviews. Which led to my realization that it is actually much more difficult to find SF audiobooks for MG & YA readers than F ones. And most of what I do find is post-apocalyptic dystopias.
Don't get me wrong, Fantasy is my second favorite genre (and I also like a good dystopia). But the truth is that none of the children/teens reading fantasy today will ever get a (real) Hogwarts letter, nor find a door into Narnia. But they might become scientists, inventors, medical researchers, or space agency employees; and a few of them could even become astronauts. They could help cure cancer, improve technology, reduce hunger & poverty, and explore new worlds (in our own solar system at least).
For that reason, I believe that we need more SF that encourages us to be hopeful & excited about the future and how we could contribute to it. We need more books/media that follows in the footsteps of the original Star Trek series. Although it had it's problems (e.g. token characters & women in mini-skirts while men wore pants), it did it's best to show a world were all people were equal and worked together to explore. And history shows that it inspired changes and encouraged people to pursue careers they never would have thought of otherwise.
All fiction can be an important force for good. It can teach us to avoid the mistakes of the past, or warn us of potential mistakes in the future; it can let us see ourselves & that we are not alone, or encourage us to be more compassionate towards those who are different; it can open our eyes to the truth of our society, or help us envision a better one.
This is a summary of the specific reasons I believe the Science Fiction is important:
SF expands our ideas about what is scientifically/technologically possible. SF inspires people to pursue careers that make those possibilities into realities. SF envisions the potential for a better social order (on our own world, for our own children) SF encourages people to work to make those visions into realities.
I am currently working on plans for how I can do more to promote MG/YA SF in 2017. I hope that you will join me by doing what you can as well.
For now, check out Charlotte's Library for some great lists of Spec Fic for young (and young-at-heart) readers.
Talk to Me (pretty please) What is your favorite genre? If you read SF, why do you think it is important? How do you find MG & YA Sci-Fi?--
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The 2016 Discussion Challenge is hosted by Nicole @Feed Your Fiction Addiction and Shannon @It Starts At Midnight. “So often book bloggers mean to post more discussions on our blogs, but we just don’t quite get around to it. Well, we wanted to give everyone a little motivation to keep the discussions going, plus give us a place to link up our discussions so that more people will see our precious words of wisdom (or … you know … our GIF-filled rants).”
This week's discussion will also be linked up with the following (hover for descriptions):
The Sunday Post, hosted by Kimba @Caffeinated Book Reviewer, is a chance to share News. A post to recap the past week, showcase books and things we have received and share news about what is coming up for the week on our blog.
Caution: Her site has sidebar ads that sometimes contain cover images which may be offensive to some.
I have a sister who has been very ill. She has had to drop all her classes for the semester and lost one of her part time jobs. As a family, we have been working together this week to make sure she has enough money for food & rent. If she ends up needing surgery, I will be taking time off work to go take care of her (my other sisters & sisters-in-law all have small children, and it would be awkward for a brother to care for her in this situation).
In addition, I am the supervisor of a small department at work and a personnel issue blew up this week & had to be elevated to my boss. It has been very emotionally distressing, and required a lot of extra documenting & meetings. Which is why I may not have responded to your comments nor commented back yet. And is also why there is no "Exploring Cyberspace" section in this post this week; I just wasn't able to do my usual visiting.
Some things I am grateful for (in honor of Thanksgiving month in the U.S., and to help me stay positive): A family that loves and takes care of each other. / Friends at work who are emotionally supportive / Blogging friends who say nice things about me on Twitter. / Blog Ahead & having some reviews etc stockpiled, so I didn't miss posting anything. / I can be proud of myself for not going on a freebie rampage (my, "don't have any money," version of retail therapy). / And most importantly, a Heavenly Father who loves me & gives me peace when I remember to ask.
"Sci-Fi Month is a month-long blog event, that I [Rinn Reads] hosted for the first time in 2013, created to celebrate everything amazing about science fiction. From TV shows to movies, books to comics, and everything else in between, it was intended to help us share our love and passion for this genre and its many, many fandoms. It was such a success – and I honestly wasn’t expecting that many people to join in – that people were already asking in December whether it would be held again the next year!
Sci-Fi Month has a schedule that all participants can add to, meaning everyone can clearly see what is being posted each day. This also encourages participants to comment on and visit other blogs." You can also follow on Twitter @SciFiMonth and/or #RRSciFiMonth
On GMB: Last week SUN: My Priority TBR Overfloweth | Sunday Summary #26 MON: Thoughts that Think Themelves | Rants & Raves TUE: Waiting for #3 Before Deciding: The Crucible of Empire | Review - ★★★★ Adult SciFi WED: Charming, Captives, Curse | New Audiobook Releases THU:Time Travel in Texas: Prom Night in Purgatory | Review - ★★★★ YA Fantasy SAT: What is Real?: Only You Can Save Mankind | Review - ★★★★ MG SciFi On GMB: Coming Up MON: Visions of the Future: Why Science Fiction is Important | My Musings TUE: Enchanted, Inc | Review - ★★★★ Adult Fantasy WED: New Audiobook Releases THU: Have Space Suit, Will Travel | Review - ★★★★ YA SciFi SAT: Tris' Book | Review - ★★★★ MG Fantasy SUN: Sunday Summary #28 Reading: UpdateDisclosure: Clicking & making a purchase from any section below may result in a small commission for me.
(Hover over cover to read description)
Disclaimer: Unless otherwise noted, I have not read these books and thus can't give content warnings.
Note: these books may or may not still be free (please verify before purchasing).
All the Kindle books I acquired that have Audible versions available.
Some of the other Kindle books I acquired.
*Whispersync price (subject to change). Must purchase Audible version after obtaining a Kindle copy to get the discount.
Talk to Me (pretty please) What things are you grateful for during difficult weeks?--
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As the mighty alien fleet from the very latest computer game thunders across the computer screen, Johnny prepares to blow them into the usual million pieces. And they send him a message: We surrender. They're not supposed to do that! They're supposed to die. And computer joysticks don't have 'Don't Fire' buttons. But it's only a game... isn't it. Isn't it?
Whispersync Deal Alert*: Audible = $5.99 (must obtain Kindle copy first, prices may change)
Disclosure: GMB uses affiliate links, clicking and making a purchase may result in a small commission for me.
BOOK DETAILS:
Only You Can Save Mankind by Terry Pratchett, read by Richard Mitchley, published by Random House Audio (2011) / Length: 4 hrs 11 min (this is the Unabridged version)
SERIES INFO:
This is Book #1 of the "Johnny Maxwell" trilogy. All of them are available on audio.
SUMMARY:
Like most Pratchett book, this one is a pleasure to read for people who love interesting characters.
Note: It takes place during the first Gulf War; so you might need to explain who "Stormin' Norman" is, and other such things, to children who are going to read it. It isn't absolutely necessary though. The book has some interesting commentary on how the war is just another "show" to kids who have grown up with lots of different screens in their lives, and yet they can't help but be affected by it.
CHARACTERS:
Johnny: On the surface, he's an absolutely normal tween kid in a home that is breaking up. And yet this is just the first of the weird things that end up happening to him. He isn't sure if he's crazy or this is real, or even what "real" is. I think his character can be summed up by the fact that he's the only one who listened and was willing to answer.
Kirsty: She's used to being the best at everything she does. But she also expects things to be the way they "should" be. Her character can be summed up by saying that Sigourney Weaver is her hero.
There is a fun cast of quirky supporting characters that includes Johnny's 3 best friends (this is definitely the "left-overs" clique) and the Scree Wee captain.
WORLDBUILDING:
This is Gulf War era small-town England. And it is video game space ship interiors. One of the best bits of worldbuilding is the way Johnny's fighter comes with all sorts of smells, sounds, and tastes he didn't expect when he is "in" the game. Real life (even a virtual version) just has so many additional dimensions.
PLOT:
It starts with Johnny having died 6 times already (and it isn't even 5 o'clock). I was pulled right in by him, his likeable ordinariness, and the baffling situation he now finds himself in.
Although there are 3 books in this series, they are each completely separate adventures. The ending wraps up everything with a typically quirky (and entirely satisfactory) detail.
HIGHLIGHTS / CAUTIONS:
The food delivery run (and the alien's way of describing human foods) The changes that take place inside the game world once Kirsty enters.
I COULD HAVE DONE WITHOUT: The game pirating (enabled by a father who copies the instruction manual at work) / Parents who try to be "friends," but don't make sure that their children have clean clothes and something to eat. / A couple of small vulgarities
OTHER CAUTIONS: Johnny & his friends sometimes do each others homework. / Big Mac is a self-proclaimed skin-head, but one of his best friends is black (sorry, I don't know the British equivalent of African American), and he spends a night in their home with no problems. I think it is all part of his effort to look tough to the people in his bad area of town.
NARRATION:
Character voices differentiated = Yes. The captain's voice sometimes approached irritating. But I think he did an excellent job with Kirsty "actually." / Opposite sex voices acceptable = Yes / Accents = Mid-Atlantic? Sound good to me / Phrasing, Pacing & Pronunciation = Good / Emoting = Good / Speed = listened on 1.25, my usual
BOOK DETAILS:
Only You Can Save Mankind (Johnny Maxwell #1) by Terry Pratchett, read by Richard Mitchley, published by Random House Audio (2011) / Length: 4 hrs 11 min (this is the Unabridged version) Buy Now | +Goodreads
Talk to Me (pretty please) What's your favorite fictional group of quirky friends? How do you think TV & social media have changed the impact of world events on young people?--
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Where does before end and after begin? Johnny Kinross is a boy from the 1950s, a boy trapped in time, and Maggie is the girl who loves him. By some miracle and against all odds, Johnny and Maggie are given a second chance at life and love. But Johnny is freed from Purgatory only to find himself in a totally different time and place, in a world full of strangers. One unsolved mystery becomes another, and Johnny and Maggie must unravel the past to have any chance at a future.
Whispersync Deal Alert*: Kindle + Audible = $6.98 (must obtain Kindle copy first, prices may change)
Disclosure: GMB uses affiliate links, clicking and making a purchase may result in a small commission for me.
BOOK DETAILS:Prom Night in Purgatory by Amy Harmon, read by Emily Woo Zeller, published by Tantor Audio (2014) / Length: 8 hrs 18 min
SERIES INFO:
This is Book #2 in the "Purgatory" duology.
**This review contains spoilers for the previous book.**
SUMMARY:
I wasn't sure that I wanted to read this. Sometimes I worry that it might be better to leave things the way they ended previously. But in the end I couldn't resist. My first time through, I wasn’t able to keep it entirely straight. But I enjoyed it enough to listen a second time. The issue is flashbacks, paranormal “dreams,” and time twisting.
However, and despite their issues in this book, the central romance remains a favorite.
CHARACTERS:
Maggie: Poor girl, she thought all her wishes had been granted; but life isn't usually that easy. She continued to fight for what she wanted though. When she told him that she missed the way things were between them, it really touched me.
Johnny: I really wanted to shout that he had suffered enough. And it was difficult to see him struggle to understand what had happened, and yet in a way it was harder to read about him the way he used to be.
Maggie & Johhny: When things are good between them, they're the best.
I still love Gus, and Maggie's grandma Lizzie is a wonderful addition. Although it is sad to meet people in the past who are already dead in present time.
WORLDBUILDING:
We get the interesting experience of seeing the modern world through the eyes of someone from the past (although I wish there was more of this) and also seeing the past through someone from the future.
PLOT:
As I said, it is very convoluted. We do finally get our conclusive ending this time though. Some good changes happen, and some not so good changes can't be undone.
HIGHLIGHTS / CAUTIONS:
Prom night, especially the parts at the reservoir The reason Johnny's favorite color is pink. *smirk* Maggie's reasons for waiting
I COULD HAVE DONE WITHOUT: The scene in which a nurse removes Johnny's catheter. / Mild swearing / Johnny's lax attitude towards stealing
OTHER CAUTIONS: Johnny romances a teacher (in the past) to try and get out of an assignment / A story is told about someone who interrupts a sexual assault. / Another woman experiences an incident of verbal & physical abuse
NARRATION:
Character voices differentiated = Yes, I especially like Lizzie's / Opposite sex voices acceptable = Yes / Accents = Still no real sense that they are all in Texas / Phrasing, Pacing & Pronunciation = Good / Emoting = Good / Speed = listened on 1.25, my usual
BOOK DETAILS:
Prom Night in Purgatory (Purgatory #2) by Amy Harmon, read by Emily Woo Zeller, published by Tantor Audio (2014) / Length: 8 hrs 18 min Buy Now | +Goodreads
Talk to Me (pretty please) What's your favorite YA Time Travel story? Is it hard for you to read about a (less admirable) past version of a character you already love?--
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