The Cat by Edeet Ravel

Hi there!

Welcome back to the most exciting place to be in the ether-sphere (well, okay...ONE of them, bookishly speaking ^_^), Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

So, how did Monday treat you? Good I hope.  Here's hoping that Tuesday follows suit and Wednesday just makes it even better because life doesn't always follow the plan we've laid out for it.  Sometimes the impossible happens, the unthinkable comes to pass and all we can do is our best to pick of the pieces to reassemble a new version of what was once but now can never be.  Yes my friends, today's choice will break your heart but it is SO much more than that that any tears you may shed are well worth the journey.  Today's book of choice is...

The Cat

by

Edeet Ravel

A rather unassuming title that would sooner quirk your eyebrow in curiosity than make you think of heartache and loss, yet that is where the story begins; deep within the depths of a heart touched by tragedy and a life ended well before its time.

The book is broken up into months and through the days that pass we meet our lead character, Elise.  She is a single mother whose world revolved around the life of her son and when his light was snuffed out, her walls came tumbling down.  She tucks herself away from the world fully intent upon removing herself from it all together until a small mew brings her back from the brink of the abyss.  A small mew you ask?  Yes, the sound and plaintive cry of one small fur-baby that was near and dear to her son's heart, Pursie.  She recounts in detail the matching of boy and said cat, the love that flowed from one to the other and back again so freely and without pretense.  Someone has to be there for her when she wakes, feed her when her bowl empties, caution her from straying too far from the front door for one never knows what dangers lie in wait.  Someone has to take care of the little gal as her boy is no longer able to do so...it might as well be her.

So we see how the title came to be, but that is not the end of our story nor Elise's journey.  The path we travel in life if fraught with the unknown, some for the better and some for the worse, and for Elise, this is certainly a part of THE WORSE.  It's worse than being forgotten at a dance by your partner as they leave with someone else.  It's worse than overhearing a conversation about yourself that is anything but flattering.  It's worse than living every day with a stain in plain sight and knowing the first impression you make will always be preceded by it.  It's worse because one never expects to have those that lived under as well as in your heart leave the world before you.  The realization of this hits Elise on a daily basis, minute by minute, second by second and yet the despair and heartache it spawns is not the end of her life, but simply life as she knew it.

Have you heard that the worst of times brings out the best in people?  Sad but true and such is the case here. There are many people offering their support in various ways, but that's not truly what she needs.  Elise needs to make this journey on her own two feet, hand over hand, hard fought inch for inch.  It's her soul's way back to this world, the turmoil and the struggle binding together the broken pieces of a heart not thought to be worth saving and turning it into something stronger that bears the marks of tragedy but does not fall at its feet.

I loved how the author portrayed Elise's wandering from moment to moment in broken pieces that were still connected by the never ending flow of time.  You could see how two steps forward did not always equal the one giant step back she was forced to take emotionally but also the cracks in the armor of her heart; a heart that was still viable, still able to love and show mercy.  The plight she is faced with is something I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy and yet despite the utter tragedy of it all, she eventually begins to loosen her grip on "the end" and find a new beginning.

In conclusion, this is a story of loss, tragedy and a life ended before its time...but also one of hope.  Hope for a new day and the chance to give something back to the world once again.  Hope for the strength to keep the one we've lost in our hearts and minds but allow their influence to color our lives for the better.  Hope for the chance to live a life worth living, something that once we too are gone is there to be remembered by.  Elise doesn't see it at first and the time it takes her to get there seems infinitesimal understandably, but get there she does and I wouldn't have missed the journey for the world.  If you're looking for a heartfelt read not afraid to lead you into the dark of night in order to show you the brightness that a new dawn has to offer, this one is for you.

ARC for review received courtesy of Penguin Group USA. (THANKS!) For more information on this title as well as their complete catalog, be sure to stop by their official website, catch up on their blog, friend them on Google+, pin them on Pinterest, like them on Facebook, or follow along on Twitter.  This book was released the last week of March 2013 via Pintail so be on the lookout for it on a bookstore shelf near you.

Until next time...happy reading!

Oh Readers! We're not in Kansas anymore!

Hi guys!

Welcome back to the place that aims to please the reader in you, whether BIG or small or somewhere in-between it all....Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.  

It's Monday!  Whoop-de-do, right?  Wrong!  Monday is one of those days that's gotten a bad wrap simply because it falls at both the beginning and end, sorta like twilight but day-of-the-week wise in lieu of hour wise.  Not to worry, we're gonna get yours started off on the right foot with a great big dose of imagination and to think it all starts with a storm (*glances outside at gray sky*).  Today's book of choice is...

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

by

L. Frank Baum

Illustrated by

Michael Sieben

You know the story, a little girl wishing that she could make it over the rainbow to escape the gray tinged life she leads at present only to be confronted with the fact that life may appear greener on the other side (and the whole "technicolor" thing actually makes it so) but "there's no place like home" after all is said and done.  Good stuff...but if you've been nodding your head along in agreement to my brief synopsis there, you my friend have not in fact read the story.  *cue dramatic music*

I had actually read the story a few years back but when I saw this new illustrated edition hitting store shelves, I knew I had to check it out.  More on those pics in a moment, let's talk story.  The best thing I can say for those that have only seen the movie is you can keep the images of the primary characters in your mind's eye for placeholders in the story if you wish...but that's about it.  Yep.  True story.

The land of the Munchkins is far less munchkin-ny and Glinda sparkles WAY less than her supposed taffeta gown though she is still in fact a powerful and very good witch.  The infamous shoes are NOT red, the flying monkeys don't actually work for the Wicked Witch on a full time basis, in fact...the Wicked Witch herself plays a very small role in comparison to her betrayal in the movie though Dorothy's journey is still fraught with dangers at every turn.  Even the characters themselves are presented in different shades of their personalities.  Movie wise, they are weaker and seeking the wizard to actually gain what they lack; book wise, you can really see they've had each "thing" the whole time but merely needed something or someone to point it out (except Dorothy, unless she was hiding a balloon in her back pocket).  Quite the contrast but DEFINITELY worth the journey down the road of yellow bricks to discover all there is to see.  Now back to this edition in particular...

What makes this edition stand out from the rest?  The illustrations (and the hardbound packaging, which I
adore!).  It's not your typical lush images that we've come to expect from this story.  They are a bit more bleak, a bit more drab and yet they work well with all they depict.  From Dorothy's sunny face which is given an extra hint of color in an otherwise fairly monotone landscape to Toto's adorable little self with spunky attitude to spare, from the uncovering of the grand humbug to the reality of the poppy field not the fantasy (though this is a fantasy...right?  *-*) and all the way to the melting of the witch herself, it's a happy marriage between story and image.  I mean really, who would have thought that the limited color palate used would work so well and that despite the faces of our stout-hearted friends being something other than expected, they'd still be recognizable as themselves beyond a shadow of a doubt.

In conclusion, a worthy read indeed for the seasoned Oz visitor as well as those just journeying past the colors that arc across the sky.  It makes sharing the story with a new generation a grand adventure once again not only in text but also in visual aids.  Though read by both girls and boys for ages now, I can see this one garnering some additional attention from the fellas as the illustrator's style was developed originally in the skateboarding culture.  Definitely a great edition to add to your collection and one that will hold its own against the scores of others already out there.

Review copy received courtesy of Joel at It Books/HarperCollins Publishers.  (THANKS!)  For more

information on this title as well as their ever growing catalog , be sure to visit their official website, add them on Google+, pin them on Pinterest, like them on Facebook or follow along on Twitter.  This book celebrated its book birthday February of this year and should be available now on a bookstore shelf near you.

Until next time...happy reading!

The Roving Reader

HOUSE OF SECRETS
by
Chris Columbus & Ned Vizzini

Seriously!
How could I pass this one by without a nod in its direction?
Pirates, old mansion type house, people in distress...is that a shark fin?
Count me in!

So, what did YOU discover while out and about?
Do tell!

READ ALL ABOUT IT: Trails in the Sand by P.C. Zick

Hi guys!

Welcome back to the place that aims to bring you sunny skies reading wise every day of the week....Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers!

Today, we are playing host to a blog tour featuring a story that could have been cut from my own local headlines not so long ago, with a message of conservation and a call to protection for the planet at large.  It's timing is certainly appropriate considering we just celebrated Earth Day and with the recent addition of yet another species to the extinct list (poor black rhinos), a call we should all heed in whatever way we can.  Without further adieu, courtesy of Worldwind Virtual Tours I give you today's blog tour guest and book of choice....

Trails in the Sand

by

P.C. Zick

A Family Saga Filled with Love Triangles, Sea Turtles, and an Oil Spill
When environmental writer Caroline Carlisle sets off to report on endangered sea turtles during the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, the last thing she expects is to uncover secrets - secrets that threaten to destroy her family, unless she can heal the hurts from a lifetime of lies. To make matters worse, Caroline's love for her late sister's husband, Simon, creates an uproar in a southern family already set on a collision course with its past.
Using real-life events as the backdrop, Trails in the Sand explores the fight to restore balance and peace, in nature and in a family, as both spiral toward disaster. Through it all, the ancient sea turtle serves a reminder that life moves forward despite the best efforts to destroy it.

Amazon   |   Barnes & Noble   |   Books-A-Million   |   Indiebound

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Sound good?

I thought so...but also scary in its own way because really, the world we live in seems hardy and stable but it has its week points and if we add to them, they become something far greater in size and much harder to stop.  But enough about my thoughts on the matter, let's find out a bit more about this curious book!  When I first read about it aside from the connection to events not forgotten in my area, I was curious...how did the author come to choose this particular subject matter for her work?  Well, ask and you shall receive because the author was kind enough to share her thoughts on that very topic with results you may not have anticipated.

Curious?
Thought you might be.
*hugs readers*

Please welcome to the virtual stage, author P.C. Zick!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Subject Chooses the Author

By P.C. Zick

When I began writing Trails in the Sand, I had one story in mind, but as I continued to put the book together, I discovered I was writing about something very different from what I had intended. The subject chose me, and I had no choice but to follow.

When I moved to Pittsburgh in 2010, I discovered that Rachel Carson grew up a short distance from my new home. Carson, a scientist and an environmental writer, wrote Silent Spring, a book that led to a ban on the use of DDT in this country. As a result, bald eagles came back from the brink of extinction and the Environmental Protection Agency was born.

Her writing made an impact on the world. She became fascinated with nature when she first played in the waters of the Allegheny River. However, her fascination led to horror when she realized what the steel mills of her hometown did to the creatures of the earth. No wonder she never returned to Pittsburgh after college and moving east. However, she never forgot her commitment to all living things.

Shortly after I moved here, I went to a screening of the documentary, A Sense of Wonder, where an actress plays Carson giving the final interviews of her life. The words come directly from the author.

“Finally, I was the writer I'd always dreamed of becoming. I thought I had abandoned my writing for science,” her character states in A Sense of Wonder. “But it was the study of science that was making my literary career possible.”

When a friend wrote her about dying wildlife, Carson was interested. She did some research and found her friend’s experience wasn’t unique. Robins were dying in Michigan, and fish were sick in Florida. Further research led her to the conclusion that pesticides were the common denominator in each case. She didn’t want to write Silent Spring, but as her character points out in the documentary, “the subject chooses the writer, not the other way around.”

I agree. Rachel Carson’s spirit swooped down upon me here in western Pennsylvania an hour from where she was born and raised and sat the subject on my keyboard. The result is Trails in the Sand.

The subject chose me as I worked long distance as a public relations director for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. I planned to leave the agency in early 2010 since I’d already relocated to Pennsylvania. However, when the crisis occurred, my bosses asked if I could stay on until we’d gotten the wildlife safely through the danger. In June 2010, I was appointed media liaison for the sea turtle nest relocation project. I handled all media interviews, scheduled media opportunities, and wrote news releases. 

At night, I was starting my next novel. I started it as I always do, letting the scenes and the characters speak to me. My first scribblings are simply that and don’t make much sense to anyone, including myself. However, slowly out of all the dribble came a theme and then a plot. Before I knew it, I was writing a scene with a sea turtle nesting on a Florida beach back in 1957. That scene eventually became the Prologue for Trails in the Sand. Before long, I’d made the main character an environmental writer following the wildlife during the oil spill crises. The end of the book comes back to the same beach with the sea turtle once again receiving a starring role.

I didn’t set out to write a book about the sea turtles or the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, but the subject chose me, and two years later, I published Trails in the Sand.

During this process, I also realized my genre found me. Trails in the Sand and my next two novels, currently “works in progress,” are contemporary environmental fiction. This genre only exists in my mind and not in the annals of novel categorization . . . for now.

As I work on my next novel, I’m open to the direction it takes. I have a plan and ideas, but I also know the muse may take me far away from the original idea. It worked for Trails in the Sand, and I’m confident it will work once again. 

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About the author...

P.C. Zick began her writing career in 1998 as a journalist. She's won various awards for her essays, columns, editorials, articles, and fiction. She describes herself as a "storyteller" no matter the genre.
She's published four works of fiction and one nonfiction book. Prior to 2010, she wrote under the name Patricia C. Behnke.
She was born in Michigan and moved to Florida in 1980. She now resides in Pennsylvania with her husband Robert.
Her fiction contains the elements most dear to her heart, ranging from love to the environment. She believes in living lightly upon this earth with love, laughter, and passion.
"This is one of the most exciting times to be an author," Ms. Zick says. "I'm honored to be a part of the revolution in writing and publishing."

Website   |   GoodReads   |   Facebook   |   Twitter

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Special thanks to Emerald at Worldwind Virtual Tours for the chance to share this tour with you.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this promotion as well as those coming soon, be sure to stop by their official website, like them on Facebook or follow along on Twitter.  To discover more about this title, pay a visit to the other sites on the tour...including an additional stop over today at i Read Indie.

Now, did you have fun?

Did you learn a lot?

Do you want it to never end because our responsibility to the Earth is JUST that important?

Agreed on all counts...and with that in mind, I'd like to share another special feature with all of you.  That's right.  You guessed it.  It's time for a ....

...CONTEST!

Thanks to the generosity of both the author and the touring company, I have the honor of extending to you a chance to win a TRAILS PRIZE PACK!  What's in it?  Well let's see .. *digs through virtual bag* .. looks like...

(1) SIGNED paperback of both LIVE FROM THE ROAD and TRAILS IN THE SAND by P.C. Zick

(1) Route baseball cap

...and it's all packaged in a reusable cloth bag to commermorate the theme of the book!

Pretty cool, right?

Right!

How to enter?

Fill out the Rafflecopter form below and you're in it to win it...but do it quickly because you only have until April 29th to get those entries in!  Good luck...and spread the word!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Until next time...happy reading!

Who? What? Where? (7)

Hi guys!

Welcome back to the place that aims to be the bookish break in your day each and EVERY day....Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

Busy week as usual and filled with ups, downs, and in-betweens but hey...we're readers!  We want to escape our current sitch and lack the means to do so physically, mentally with a book is TOTALLY the way to go.  ^_^  This week I've got two in progress reads but I'm splitting the difference by featuring one here and one on my teaser post (feel free to check it out after this one for more fun!).  Ready?  Here we go!

Hosted by Melissa at My World...in Words and Pages it's time to explore...

Who are you with?

Where are you at?

What's happening?

Share with us just a little bit of what is happening in the book you are reading, right where you are now.

Just a tiny taste of what's happening, remember try to not give spoilers of the book.

Right now, I'm with Maya (or is it Sarah?  Dun dun dunnn....) and Derek (ooh, la la! Tres chic geek!) in a Franco-American cafe on California Street having a little breakfast after a trek/carry up a hill to a FABULOUS view and a roll down same said hill.  We're now discussing the events that just transpired at the unveiling and Maya/Sarah's past while trying to get Derek to open up about his life beyond hid techie kingdom and (unsuccessfully) trying to avoid becoming any more enamored with him.  ^_^

Unmasking Maya by Libby Mercer

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So....who/where/what are YOU this week?

Do tell...and feel free to check out the others participating in this MEME as well as link to your own post over at Melissa's site.

Until next time...happy reading!

^_^

Taste Testing Tuesdays...on a Wednesday!

Good morning (or whatever time it is where you are), everyone!

Welcome to another installment of Taste Testing Tuesdays here at Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers! Taste Testing Tuesdays was inspired by 'Teaser Tuesdays', a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. 

On the menu this week...two books actually, but only one of which I'm sharing on THIS post.  To read all about the other read in progress, you'll have to check out my other post today with Mel's WHO WHAT WHERE meme of fun!  (^_^)  Now, today's teaser is from a book I'm just about to crack the spine on, or rather carefully avoid cracking the spine and yet still read it cover to cover.  Ready for a taste?  Here it comes!

Everything Was Good-Bye 
by
Gurjinder Basran

The back door opened and slammed shut.  The china that had never seen a happy occasion quivered in the glass cabinet, reverberating an entrance through wood-panelled walls. - pg 29 (ARC)

Whoa.
That sounds like someone rather in a hurry...but to leave or arrive?  What was their mental state?  Heading towards good news or away from bad news?  In short, the WHY is what we need here peoples, so it looks like in order to satisfy my curiosity, I'm gonna have to get reading this one...STAT!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

So...what book are you lost in this week?

Oh come on...just a little tease?

^_^

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

*Grab your current read 

*Open to a random page 

*Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page

BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (Make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!) 

*Share the title & author, too, so that other participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers! 

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Until next time...happy reading!

Make way for...The Disrespectful Interviewer by Lauren Baratz-Logsted

Hi there!

Welcome back to the place that aims to please....Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.  

I'll keep my intro brief today, because if I don't I just may rant a brief while on the importance of keeping obligations, following through on promises, not disappointing the "little guy" and other such downers that as my fingers fly across the keyboard I am sorely tempted to reveal in detail (perhaps it's good I have to type my thoughts out first as opposed to simply speaking them...added filter), but I shan't.  I'm not a read-and-spill girl in that manner at least but suffice it to say that today's post is more spur of the moment.  You know what though?  Sometimes, it just works out all the better.  

Today's book was chosen by circumstance as much as it was by choice, and TOTALLY fits the occurrences of the day if they were to flip-flop a smidge.  Just sayin'.  Dropping that part for now.  ~whistles~  

[WARNING:  As today's chosen title calls for a bit of snark, I may be inclined to indulge in some of my own.  Pardon it or enjoy it with me, the choice is yours, but my feelings are going along the lines of Rhett and Scarlett with this one.]

Anywho, let's all direct our much deserved attention to an author we know and love that has her writing fingers (well, pens) in multiple genres and just so happens to be celebrating the release of her latest creative gathering.  Today's ebook of choice is...

The Disrespectful Interviewer:

Thirteen Interviews with Authors

conducted by

Lauren Baratz-Logsted

About the book...

Just what the title promises! Thirteen disrespectful interviews with authors, including: Chris Cleave, Jon Clinch, Tish Cohen, Joseph Finder, Kristy Kiernan, A.S. King, J.A. Konrath, Greg Logsted, Lisa McMann, Lynn Price, Lev Raphael, Adriana Trigiana...and Lauren Baratz-Logsted - discover new favorites and see some of your favorite authors, like you've never seen them before!

Well, Ms. Baratz-Logsted (I hope you don't mind if I refer to you as LBL as with your hyphenated name there are so many more chances for me to butcher it in typing!), grant it the "about the book" tells us the content but really, could you spare us a few details?  ^-*  No wait, scratch that because if you had the initial fun would have been spoiled when readers get to see just how truly snarky you can be.  Readers, LBL is definitely full of snark, so much so that I might just see how many types I can use the word snark in a sentence before you yourselves become snarky {< - Ooh, look!  A variation!)....

....just kidding, but only on SOME counts.  This is definitely a snark-fest with the author and the authors who signed up for their berating...I mean interview, willingly but before you get all up in arms seeing a favorite author name or two mentioned and possibly brought down to size (no LBL, that's not a dig at your height or lack thereof), it's all in good fun!  The authors knew what they were stepping into (*checks virtual shoes...all clear here*) before the actual interview so they let loose in full force, some with more humorous outcomes than others but all had something memorable to cling to.  In fact, whether you know the authors prior to reading this collection or not, you'll definitely be checking out their work afterwards...and look, LBL included links to their sites too!  So convenient!  So kind!  So...non disrespectful...hmm, we'll pardon that small infraction.

Before reading this one, I admit to recognizing the names of (if not necessarily having read the work of) exactly EIGHT of the authors belittled...I mean, showcased.  By ebook's end though, I feel like I know them all in some small way.  For example, I know that Joseph Finder is pronounced FINN-der, Kristy Kiernan has a wicked fun sense of humor, Adriana Trigiana is a total sweetheart, Greg Logsted has a somewhat one track mind (understandable though since he is in fact her husband as well as an esteemed author), and LBL is...is...hard to sum up in a few words.  ^-^  No, really, she's a blast to read, creative to a fault (but a totally GOOD fault!), not afraid to speak her mind, interactive on social media (catch her on Twitter frequently!) and an all around great person from what I can see.  I mean, this endeavor could have back-fired severely if given the chance, but it didn't because she wouldn't let it and despite the fact that the site that originally hosted these interviews is dead and gone, the posts will live on for all to enjoy, chuckle at and perhaps meet several new-to-you authors you'll be just dying to read all about.  But yeah, don't follow through on that dying thing though...it was totally just a figure of speech.  *hugs readers*

Author Lauren Baratz-Logsted

Special thanks to Lauren Baratz-Logsted for the ebook copy for review...and the great fun I had between the digital pages (as well as her understanding of the freedoms and liberties I took with this post - I hope - *gulp*).  (THANKS!)  To learn more about the author as well as her works in Fiction, YA lit, and Kid's, be sure to stop by her official site, like her on Facebook or follow along on Twitter.  This ebook was released the end of last month and is available now for your intellectual consumption as we speak.

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*ahem*

So, what ARE you in fact still doing here?

Go GO go...

get yourself a copy and yuck it up along with the rest of us.  Believe me, you never really knew just how funny some of the great minds in the writing world could be...leave it to one of their own to bring out their best.

Until next time...happy reading!

The 13-Story Treehouse by Andy Griffiths

Hi there!

Welcome back to the place that aims to please the reader in you most days of the week...Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.  Why most days?  I thought you might catch that change in phrase.  Mainly because there are some days that the blog may be silent but I try to keep that few and far between.  You know how it goes guys....sometimes you need a mini-break.  No worries...not quitting anytime soon though.  ^_^  Moving forward...

Today, if you haven't heard as of yet, is EARTH DAY!  The day that we celebrate all things about Mother Earth and the conservation efforts in process and forth coming to keep her clean,. energy efficient and viable for many many many many (you get the picture) moons to come.  How are YOU celebrating Earth Day?  Me...I'll be working mostly, but also squeezing in a little reading from both a paper book that I'll be recycling in the form of sharing with a friend (or perhaps one of you...we'll see) and an ebook with only a digital impact to the environment.  Oh, and I'll also be sharing an awesome little read that I just devoured yesterday starring a writing duo that lives in a TREEHOUSE.  Trust me though, this is not your standard old house stuck up in a tree...it's the tree itself AND THEN SOME.  Curious to explore this "natural" wonder?  Let's go!  Today's book of choice is...

The 13-Story Treehouse

by

Andy Griffiths

Illustrated by

Terry Denton

What starts out as a day in the life of two young lads living in the uber-awesome treehouse of anyone's dreams, morphs into a race to meet their publisher's deadline and ends in an adventure so wild, so crazy, so catnary-flying-in-the-clear-blue-sky...you have to read it to believe it.  No, really...and there ARE catnaries - cats that are now yellow and can fly.  *-*

I started the book on a whim as I was eating dinner yesterday and simply couldn't put it down.  It's set up "Wimpy Kid" or "Dork Diary" style meaning less on the words, more on the artwork but both pieces depend equally on each other for the story to be told.  With the turn of a page, you're whisked inside the treehouse that appears from the outside to simply be a ginormous tree, free to explore the multi-story structure complete with a bowling alley, a room full of pillows, a theater, a library, and....a secret underground laboratory where random acts of genius (and not) are carried out on a daily basis.  Yes, there is fun to be had and fun that has been had but there was also a deadline forgotten and Mr. Big Nose their publisher is none too happy.  Any authors out there know that feeling?

To squelch the anger of Mr. Big Nose and prevent his nose from getting any redder or bigger than it already is, they agree to have their latest book to them by 5PM the following day.  Now they only need to focus and get some ideas down on paper, and they actually might make the deadline.  Too bad the distractions are aplenty and the boys have a somewhat "who-look-shiny" problem at the moment.  Everything from a ray gun that will shrink or grow things (including a ginormous banana...which both helps them later on and lands them in trouble), an obsession with sea-monkeys (which definitely turn out to be MORE than expected), and the desire to help a kitty-cat fly (enter the catnary...told you there was one...err, multiple!) will play its part in distracting this team from getting down to brass tacks.  The why and how of the parts they play though is HI-larious; the stuff that books are made of even!  (Hmmm....)

The cast of characters encountered varies, if you haven't guessed that as of yet.  From the cat turned catnary to the sea-monkeys, from a sea-monster to a GIANT gorilla, and a little bit of everything in between, you've definitely got your plate full here...but that's not even mentioning our leads, Andy and Terry (wait a second, aren't those the names of the author and illustrator?  *-*).  Andy is the writer of the duo; Terry is the illustrator.  Though each would like to claim the title of the other as well, a contest between the two revealed in the story nets the true winners.  You'll laugh along with their antics, make their worries your own (temporarily speaking of course) and while away a piece of your afternoon as you read all about them rushing to meet their publisher's deadline...only after having a few more adventures that put off the inevitable.  ^_^  Good times indeed.

In conclusion, a great way to insert a reading break in your day and something that will definitely keep your imagination running in tip top order.  Though a work of fiction (supposedly) aimed at children (to start with), the creativity employed (in my opinion) will attract a wider range of readers....even if only to satisfy their curiosity.  The way the story wraps around on itself is another stunning point you have to read to see (or is that see to read?) and again begs the reader to ponder just how much of this work was fiction...versus fact.  I'm told this is the lead book in a new series by this formidable team well known in the Children's Literature arena and if this is any indication of the fun yet to come, I'm sure we'll be hearing much more about Andy and Terry very soon.

ARC courtesy of Ksenia at MacMillan Children's Publishing Group. (THANKS!)  For more information on website, like them on Facebook, or follow along on Twitter.  To discover more of the worlds in Any Griffiths head, check out his site, Facebook page, or Twitter feed.  Curious about the illustrations?  Terry Denton can be found online at his official site.  This book was released this month via Feiwel & Friends, so be on the lookout for it on a bookstore shelf near you.this title as well as their ever growing catalog of wonders, be sure to visit their official

Until next time....HAPPY EARTH DAY....and happy reading!

The Roving Reader

Ooh...looks as interesting as the first. A cover success!

An idea I'm totally behind...: A Dog for Everyone by Katrina Streza

Hi there!

It's Friday here at Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers (and assumedly for many of you as well) and I don't know about you but I'm glad the weekend is upon us.  Yep.  Even though I've got to work both days, it's only job 2 so that makes a world of difference...planning on getting in some relaxing time - maybe a movie, definitely some reading.  How about you?  Any big plans for the weekend?  Go ahead, you can share.  Inspire us!  ^_^  Anywho...

Today's book of choice is a newish ebook release from the folks at Xist Publishing that stars a critter I simply adore.  Any guesses?  I'll give you one, with a BIG clue...fur babies!  ^_^  If you said DOGS, than BINGO...you're correct!  (If not, it's okay...I won't hold it against you... *smirk*)  Yes, we all know I love my little fur babies and I think they might even be fans of this book...some taking a diva attitude perhaps in having a likeness of them included.  (*ahem*)  Without further ado, today's ebook of choice is....

A Dog for Everyone

by

Katrina Streza

It's a rhyming adventure from start to finish with a goodly amount of the furry little guys depicted within.  I can actually see it as a great way to introduce little ones to many of the breeds that exist when they start to show interest in having one of their own...or perhaps even before.  As you move forward in the text, you learn a bit about what the types featured look like (often in a humorous way...like the Bulldog looking "old, but he's younger than you dad!" ~smirk~) and more often than not, something specific to the breed (like how Poodles are actually "bright hunting dogs"...something I did not actually know!).  Each two page spread notes the facts, the fun, and provides you with a visual of the pup at hand.  Some are sweet, some fluffy, some ready to jump off the page and play...but they are all great depictions of the little guys and will help to associate the breed with the actual dog when viewed in person.

My favorites?  Hard to choose really, especially since I have one or two of those starring here, but picture wise I have to say I thought the Dachshund was ADORABLE and the Basset Hound, a hoot!  Just look at that face...he looks like he's about to stand up and speak!  My absolute FAVORITE PASSAGE though, hands...excuse me, paws down, would be the one referencing shelter dogs.  There are so many fur babies looking for their second chance for many a reason.  Who can say no if at all possible to give one of these little (or BIG) guys a new forever home?

So, to conclude my little love fest for fur babies and draw to an end my look at this picture ebook, I'd have to say it's a great starting place to discover who's who of the doggy world.  It explores the different types, attitudes and responsibilities that go along with them without inundating young minds with TOO much information at once.  It let's them revel in the joy of their decision to ask for a pup, while enlightening them to the fact that they are more then just a toy...they are living creatures; a point that parents will appreciate ten fold I'm sure.

Special thanks Calee at Xist Publishing for the ebook review copy.  (THANKS!)  For more information on site or follow along on Twitter.  This ebook is available now so seek thee out a copy at an online retailer of your choosing.  Need a starting point?  Check out Amazon and Xist Publishing directly.
this title as well as their growing catalog, be sure to stop by their

Until next time..happy reading!

BLOG TOUR: Princess April Morning-Glory by Letitia Fairbanks - Review + Giveaway!

Hi guys!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers...the place to be come rain or shine because you're always just in time...for a good read and today is no exception!

Today, we are playing host to a Pump Up Your Book blog tour featuring a work that came to light well after the author passing and yet is making an impact nonetheless.  It reminds me of the storybooks of old, similar to those scenes in older Disney films that began with the opening of an ornate book, in both design and voice; a small fact that lends it a LARGE amount of charm.  Curious?  you should be.  It's definitely one I can see added to many a reader's shelf, but I digress.  Allow me to introduce it properly.  Today's book of choice and blog tour guest is....

Princess April Morning-Glory

by

Letitia Fairbanks 

About the book...

At long last, Princess April Morning-Glory emerges as a lost treasure from the golden age of Hollywood.

Written and illustrated in 1941 by Letitia Fairbanks, the niece of silent film stars Douglas Fairbanks Sr. and Mary Pickford, the seemingly traditional children’s book is transformed into a modern-day fairy tale that will captivate child and adult readers alike.

Letitia was inspired to create portraiture for the characters of Princess April Morning-Glory from film stars of the day. John Barrymore, and Letitia's cousin Douglas Fairbanks Jr., provided glamorous inspiration through their then-current films. The Wicked King's (Barrymore) costume was sparked by his role as Louis XV in Irving Thalberg's 1938 Marie Antoinette, while the hairstyle resembles his eponymous role in Archie Mayo's 1931 Svengali. Prince Chivalry was inspired by her cousin's (Fairbanks) sword-fighting role in David O. Selznick's 1937 The Prisoner of Zenda.

Viewed as unconventional when it first debuted – up until then, no one had thought to meld a Disney-like moral tale with a swashbuckling adventure – the story centers on the prescient acknowledgment that we create our destinies by the choices that we make.

The main narrative is focused around the brave and courageous Princess April who must first transcend darkness and evil before she can realize her true potential. Intrigued by the Great World and its sense of adventure, a young Princess April decides to abandon the familiarity of her home in Fairyland and undertake a voyage into the unknown. Once outside the Enchanted Forest, she finds comfort and friendship in the company of various creatures who ensure her safe passage.

But returning home proves more difficult than at first she realized. In order to go back to Fairyland, a friendly wizard informs Princess April that she must first accomplish three good deeds. Can Princess April resist the temptation of darker forces and summon enough courage to continue doing good deeds? And if she dares to hold true to herself, will it someday lead her back home again?

There's no way really to describe this one except enchanting.  As I previously stated, the actual layout of the book in both text and image really put me in an "old school" frame of mind.  Lush illustrations, enchanting characters both big and small, even images to adorn the passages dance across every page.  How it was ever seen as out of its time back in the day, I'm not certain but I can definitely say that I am glad it finally reached the limelight of publication.  You don't often see this type of work, this quality and attention to detail in today's releases.  Now, that's not to say that today's literature is lacking anything, it's just a different generation but the nostalgia that this story dredges up with its little fairy princess, an adventure gone awry and emphasis on good deeds warms my heart as I'm sure it will for readers far and wide.

Regarding the history of the author, I truly didn't know much about her except a vague recollection of the name itself.  It took a walk down history lane at the end of the book to brighten that dim corner of my mind.  I must say, Ms. Fairbanks was not your typical woman of her day but hats off to her for her ideas, independent streak and her fortitude to carry through the rough waters that were often presented to her.  The refuge she took in Princess April's story played well in her favor, despite having to wait until present day for the attention it deserves.

In conclusion, a charming tale from yesteryear that's finally having its day in the sun...and I am feeling most favored to be a part of that.  It will leave readers filled to the brim with childish delight while reminding us all that a good deed, no matter how big, no matter how small, goes a long way.  In theses trying times with the world the way that it is, I couldn't think of a better message to impart.  So from my heart to yours, I highly recommend this enchanting read for one and all.

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Who's Who

Letitia Fairbanks, the niece of Douglas Fairbanks Sr. and Mary Pickford, lived a life guided by artistic passions. In 1939, wanting to commemorate her late uncle, Letitia began work on Princess April Morning-Glory, allowing a creative outlet for combining her lifelong loves: painting, writing, and illustration.
Holding firm to her artistic identify, Letitia gravitated toward portraiture, landscapes, and still-lifes. She was also a biographer, co-authoring Douglas Fairbanks: The Fourth Musketeer, with Ralph Hancock. Her marriage to Hal Smoot in 1966 marked the beginning of a particularly joyful and creative period. Needle points and annual Christmas cards, which featured a painting from the previous year, not to mention her role as a wife, mother, step-mother and grandmother brought her much fulfillment. After a life rich in artistic accomplishment, Letitia passed away in September of 1992.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

Kelley Smoot Garrett was born in Dallas, raised in Manhattan and has lived the life of a West Texas wildcatter as well that of an IT professional. At one time or another in her life she’s called places as diverse as Scourie, Scotland; Austin, Abilene and Midland, Texas; Singapore; Paris; and Auckland, New Zealand — home. She is proud to be the daughter of Sue Ashby and Harold Smoot and the step-daughter of Letitia Fairbanks Smoot. She currently lives with her husband Danny Garrett, three cats, and one happy only-dog, Moxie in the Texas Hill Country.

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ARC for review courtesy of Dorothy at Pump Up Your Book Online Book Publicity.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this tour as well as those both past and forth coming, be sure to stop by their official site, friend them on Google+, like them on Facebook or follow along on Twitter.  To discover more of the world within Princess April Morning-Glory, be sure to stop by the official site or like the Facebook page.  This book is available now so be on the look out for it on a bookstore shelf near you.  Now remember, this is a BLOG TOUR so there are LOADS of great stops to check out from beginning (Feb 4th) to end (April 26th), including yesterday's over at Vic's Media Room and tomorrow's at Books Books the Magical Fruit.  Now, are you ready for even MORE fun?  Keep reading...

As a special bonus just for stopping by today (okay, okay...it's also a part of the tour itself, but your stop over here is MOST APPRECIATED!), the folks at Pump Up Your Book are also giving you a chance to enter their giveaway for a Kindle Fire HD!  Old school meets new school, what can you do.  TO ENTER...just fill out the Rafflecopter form below and you're in it to win it.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Until next time, happy reading!

Lumpito and the Painter from Spain by Monica Kulling

Hi there!

Welcome back to the place that aims to please readers of all ages at some point or another throughout the course of a week....Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

Today, we're heading back to the realm of storybooks only this time, it's based on a true story.  Pretty cool, right?  Oh, it only gets better from here on out.  The tale is one that will enchant the hearts of readers young and old as well as capture the attention of art connoisseurs too...of course being a dog lover doesn't hurt either.  ^_^  Curious how this puzzle fits together?  (< - There's a pun there which you'll get in a second...) Wonder no more!  Today's book of choice is....

Lumpito and the Painter from Spain

By

Monica Kulling

Illustrated by

Dean Griffiths

About the book...

A true story of the determined little dachshund who stole Picasso’s heart
Lump the dachshund is content living with David in Italy. But he is not happy living with Big Dog, who hounds him day and night. Lump needs a holiday. So when David announces that he’s off to the south of France to photograph a famous painter, Lump positively scrambles at the chance to ride along. At the villa, Pablo Picasso greets them and is enchanted with the little dog he calls Lumpito. The feeling is mutual; from that moment on, the two become soulmates. Lump loves David. But how can he show his master, and Picasso, that he is home at last?

Take two parts ADORABLE, one part fiction, one part truth...mix well and the masterpiece you are about to meet is the end product.

First things first, the name.  It begins as Lump but is pronounced "Loomp", meaning rascal in German and transforms to Lumpito when he finds a new forever home that fits everyone like the missing puzzle piece of a forgotten puzzle.  A great tail...excuse me, tale for readers of all ages that will capture your heart from beginning to end, or even cover to cover;  Lumpito is such a little star that it takes both sides of the cover to display is adorableness or rather for both ends to meet.  ^_^  I have to admit, my instant attraction to this book was the cover...he reminded me greatly of my little fur baby Winston (a doxy who passed away a year or so ago); there's just something about their sweet little faces that really pours on the charm.  The illustrator, Dean Griffiths, really brought that to life from start to finish without neglecting any of the other characters within.  From the paint smudges on Lumpito's nose to Yan's elation at making a new friend, Picasso's obvious joy over his new little muse and so on, there is fun to be had and joy to discover on every page.  So, in essence, I came for the cover but STAYED for the story.

This is not simply a story about man's best friend but rather a journey that finds our lumpy boy in a new forever home better suited for all members of the family.  Any pet owner knows, just because we want two of our fur babies to get along, doesn't mean they always do.  Sometimes, it's just not meant to be and though it's hard, the best thing for everyone is to seek out a new situation for them.  Such was the case presented in this story and such are the circumstances that landed Lumpito with new digs...and also the role of muse to one infamous artist.  That's right.  The tie in to Picasso is all TRUE.  Don't believe me?  Check out some of his work, specifically his series of Las Meninas (The Maids of Honor) paintings, some of which I've included here thanks to online search options.  FIFTEEN of them feature the little pup...how cool is that?!  (Thank you to the author for pointing out this COOL factoid!  Definitely opens up the door for more research after the story!)

So, in conclusion, an adorable story ripped right from the pages of history and presented in a tidy little paint splatters package of furry wonder for all to see.  It will appeal to young readers right from the start with illustrations to adore (and really, who could say no to THAT little face?), while still giving older readers something to capture their interests and investigate after the tale has reached its end.  Another fantastic release, from an author that's certainly made her mark in the Children's Edutainment arena, and one whose work I will recommend (and follow) for many moons to come.This book just celebrated its official BOOK BIRTHDAY this Monday and should be readily available on a bookstore shelf near you.

Review copy received courtesy of author Monica Kulling and Erin at Pajama Press.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title as well as their complete catalog, stop by the publisher's site, blog, Pinterest board, Facebook page, or follow along on Twitter.  To discover more of the creative world of Monica Kulling, stop by her official site, or like her on Facebook.


Until next time...happy reading!