Alibi's Ghosts by L.S. Hullinger

Hi guys!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers…the place that aims to satisfy your bookish appetite every day of the week; weekends and holidays included!

For those of you marking the occasion, Happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day to you!  For those of you celebrating something else, here’s hoping your day was filled with festivities and emotions appropriate to the event.  That being said, today’s book was not actually chosen to coincide with the MLKJ day event…and yet, it fits.  How so?  Well, his dream was for a world free of prejudice, where men and women were seen for who they were, not the color of their skin.  The book selection I present you with today also deals with a bit of prejudice, some seeing of the light, and an overall understanding that sometimes our fellow man (and woman) are in need of a helping hand…even if they can’t ask for it in so many words.  Curious?  You should be.  It’s a fun and fast read filled with mysteries even the younger set can enjoy unraveling.  Friends, readers, and passerby’s, I present to you today book of choice…

Alibi’s Ghosts,

The Larger-Than-Life Small World of a Medium’s Daughter

By

L.S. Hullinger

Whew!  With a title like that, how can you NOT stop and take a look…or at least I knew I couldn’t.  I love the word play in the title; “larger than life”…small…and medium (though obviously not speaking about someone’s size in this case).  It really makes a word loving girl like myself sit up and take notice.  Now, on to the story…

Alibi (aka Alexandra Vernon) is a great kid through and through; in fact, it’s no wonder the spirits choose to communicate with her….she’s a gem!  She feels with her whole heart and listens with her entire being despite the fact that those open aspects of her personality get her in trouble more often than not.  Well, you can’t really blame the parents entirely, I mean if you found your child making Dagwood sandwiches every night three days in a row when they don’t even know what one is or vehicles moved without explanation and a somewhat guilty looking eleven year old close at hand, you might be skeptical to believe every word that leaves her mouth as well.  LISTEN UP parents…the kid is not always fibbing!  Such is the case here and thanks to Alibi’s mother she has a little leeway (I should hope so considering her line of work) but it doesn’t mean that she can explain away anything and everything away due to ghostly influence…especially since some of those influences have to remain a secret!  (Aka her grandfather’s and cousin’s presence….SHHH!)  Oh my; wasn’t life suppose to be easier when you were eleven?  *sigh*  Anywho…

The character building here was just enough to get you involved in their lives without over educating you on the who/when/why/where/how of it all; a good balance for both the target audience and beyond.  Their interactions with members of the community help show a world more accepting than that of witch-hunting times but yet not ready to set a place for their lingering aunt’s or uncle’s spirits at the supper table.  This acceptance and non also extends to Alibi.  We see and feel it with her friend Daisy who happens to come for a visit during this week of week’s.  She’s always been jumpy of Alibi’s mother’s powers, let alone their ghost magnet of a house, but what will happen if she finds out Alibi sees ghosts too?  That’s a story for another slumber party, but the results may surprise you.  Moving forward…

This isn’t just a story about a medium, her daughter and the community in which they live and serve.  At it’s heart is a mystery that needs solving and from the looks of things, Alibi’s gonna have to be the one to do it.  It requires a quick mind (check!), an uncanny ability to both listen AND understand (check!), and a pureness of heart only obtained from wanting nothing more than to help someone in need (i.e. no earthly gain for oneself…check!  Hey, clearing your name of trouble isn’t an earthly gain folks…just a useful byproduct of giving your assistance….).  For all those reasons and more, it makes a great read for both the younger set and the young at heart.  Though dealing with spirits and the afterlife, it doesn’t do so in an uber-creepy way leaving it accessible (hat’s off to the author on that accomplish!) while helping to explain some of these concepts in an honest and open manner.

In conclusion, a wonderful read from a new-to-me author that I would recommend to one and all no matter the time of year.  It’s a fast read with a lot of heart that will raise your spirits higher than her cousin’s crow (Poe) can fly (yep…her cousin had a pet crow that sorta warns her when his pranking self is about…hehe).   So if you’re ready to take on the problems of the living with the help of those that have passed, grab your clue sheet to record your observations and H.I.B.E.S. events (or Heavily Influenced By Entity Spirits events) and embark on a little paranormal adventure with Alibi and friends.  Trust me, you’ll be glad you did.

Review copy courtesy of author L.S. Hullinger.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title as well as her other works, be sure to visit her official site or follow along on Twitter.  This book was released in print June 2012 and should be available now on a bookstore shelf or online retailer near you.  Oh and listen up!  She has another work out right now entitled Cyndi Hazard, Empathic Detective that from the chapter sample at ‘Alibi’s’ end…sounds like another great pick for the old wish list!

Until next time…happy reading!

Reaching new heights ...GOING UP! by Monica Kulling

Hi guys!
Welcome back to the Sunday edition of Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers...the place to be when bookish fun is your number one priority of the day.

Today we are heading back to the land of storybooks but with an educational twist.  I'd say it fits into the newer genre of edutainment, but that's just me...or is it? After all, who doesn't like their learning with a side of fun?  Not only does it make the "medicine go down" but it makes what was learned...stick.  please allow me to introduce today's book of choice...

GOING UP!
ELISHA OTIS'S TRIP TO THE TOP
by
Monica Kulling
Illustrated by
David Perkins

Elisha Otis...name ring a bell, or rather a buzzer alerting you that you've arrived on your chosen floor?  That's right.. he's the man behind the convenience we depend on greatly today; the elevator. Now grant it, stairs have never disappeared and will never be obsolete, but imagine having to walk up like 20 flights of stairs or more.. not by choice! I believe we'd see a severe decline in both building heights and penthouse purchases...or an increase in hermits and self contained living environments. 

Thanks to Mr. Otis, we don't have to worry about all that because with the push of a button and the grabbing of a brake, we are safely delivered to whatever destination we seek no matter how tall a place it resides in...but life didn't start out all glorious for this inventor.  He had hard times, odd jobs (a bed frame maker, who knew?) and bad luck littering his path as much or even more so than the next, but that just goes to show you that one never really knows where the next world changing idea will come from.  It may even be YOU.  See? Learned something new didn't ya?

In conclusion, another great release from an author that's leaving her mark in the children's educational arena by letting imaginations run wild and dreams soar. Combine all of the literary merit and learning with the wonderfully detailed illustrations and you'll walk away with a clear picture of the 1800's and how even today we feel its impact. It's a great way to take in a part of history no matter your age and another book that I'll be recommending to one and all.

Review copy received courtesy of author Monica Kulling and Tundra Books, a division of Random House Canada. (THANKS!) For more information on this title as well as the entire "Great Idea Series", be sure to check out the publisher's site (http://www.tundrabooks.com) and Twitter feed (http://twitter.com/tundrabooks) or pay a visit to the author online (http://www.monicakulling.ca). This book was released October 2012 and should be available now on a bookstore shelf near you.

Until next time...happy reading!

ESCAPE by Perihan Magden

Hi there!
Welcome back to the Saturday edition of Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers...the place that rolls out the red carpet for the weekend and with it, bookish fun to boot! Although considering today's title, a red carpet may not have been the best choice...though it would hide any trace evidence rather well.

Today we are going abroad as we explore a translated work from a Turkish author that has a certain air of mystery, a huge helping of family ties...and a heaping handful of chilling creepiness.  The phrase "things aren't always what they seem" can certainly be used here, but it would be the understatement of the century. Please welcome today's book of choice...

ESCAPE
by
Perihan Magden
Translated by
Kenneth Dakan

The short summary... it's a story that explores the depths to which a mother's love reaches.  The longer story...that takes a bit of explaining. 

I read in several reviews that some felt the flow of the story was interrupted by or lost in translation. Seeing as I don't speak or read a lick of Turkish, I'd be hard pressed to confirm or deny that claim entirely. What I can comment on is my own experience and to me, it made sense.  The exploits of mother and daughter are told through alternating viewpoints (that of the daughter and that of those left behind in their wake...witnesses if you will) which meet in passing as each chapter rolls by. The awkward speech patterns and repetition were the result of an unwell mind; someone conditioned outside the parameters of what we consider "normal".  Though I did find the switches between internal and external voices (I.e. quotation mark usage or lack thereof) off putting, I was still able to follow the ever evolving events as if I was one of the cherished few items they opted to take with them. 

Here we have a case motherly love gone bad. How bad? Oh, how's about "any sharp object will do if you cross me or my daughter" kind of bad.  Yep.    The mother figure has a past that she'd rather forget but can't escape for fear of "Them" catching up and every calculated step she takes only digs her hole deeper and deeper.  She suffers from bouts of mental retreat making her that unstable firecracker in a room full of black powder.  One false move and KABOOM! It's both confusing and fascinating to see how she manages life.  Determination, dedication, and love are certainly not lacking but restraint, patience and a clear head, or at least one socially acceptable are gone with the days of the dinosaurs.   The author created quite a character with that one because you feel equal parts sad and happy, angry and kind, scared for and of whenever she is concerned. I can only imagine the childhood she alludes to having, and yet we can't quite take her at her word so was it black or white, tarnished and garish or simply something her obviously-in-need-of-help mind misconstrued? Looks like we'll never know... *dun dun dunnnn*

Her daughter, on the other hand, is a mystery in the making. She had the same chance as all of us do as she entered the world but by fate or circumstance, she was swept into a world colored shades of obsession.  Was she ever left wanting? In the friends and happy memory department, yes...but otherwise, mother tended to all her needs. Never once did she go hungry. Never was there a time she when without shelter or proper attire (though proper in her mother's mind was a little "Baby Jane"). Never was she left to feel unloved nor unwanted because mother always had time for her. Mother was her constant companion and whether the relationship was healthy or not, it's a lot more than can be said for some higher standing families today. No, I'm not justifying the lengths the mother went to to keep herself and her daughter under the radar (until that one fateful day...) but props have to be given for her total giving if herself, both time and spirit, to her daughter's well being...no matter how twisted it truly was.  Speaking of that twist...

It follows them throughout the book like a roller coaster corkscrew with no end.  The twists and turns taken are both physical AND mental leaving the reader with much to digest by the time everything is said and done. You discover a pattern to their behavior and anticipate (though hope against hope you're wrong) what the future will bring for our stunning little lady and yet the final pages are a surprise; not completely but certainly something you didn't fully anticipate.. especially how it's carried out.  Suffice it to say that brutality follows this pair like a well loved shadow.

In the end, I'd say despite the curious paths it took (and the reading format I partook of it in), the wandering and weaving added up to a fast read that will keep most entranced til the bitter end. There are questions that arise as the story progresses and though answers are not immediately available, they do come .. not to mention the figuring out of it all is half the "fun".  Recommended read for older teens through adults...trust me, the mental fugues dealt with and lashings dished out are best left for an older audience.

Ebook for review courtesy of Emily at Wunderkind PR. (THANKS!) For more information on this title as well as their current promotions be sure to stop by their site (http://www.wunderkind-pr.com/) or follow along on Twitter (http://twitter.com/WunderEmily).  This title was released Fall 2012 and should be available now on a bookstore shelf or online retailer near you.

Until next time...happy reading!

What's in a name...

Hi there!

Welcome back to the site that aims to bring the bookish fun to you every day of the week...Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

 Today we are celebrating the book birthday of another fascinating read brought to my attention by Leyane over at FSB Associates.  (THANKS!)  It's the latest addition to the Young Adult genre via the folks over at Merit Press from an author whose previous works explored the world through prose.  (Hmm, that might explain the one character's chosen method of expressing his darker issues…interesting.)  Up front, the cover is curious and the read is definitely good....but boy oh boy the topics it covers; whoo!  Hard, to say the least….the very least that is, but I digress.  Let's properly meet today's book of choice....

The Namesake

by

Steven Parlato

From the publisher...

While he may be the smartest boy at St. Sebatian's Academy, Evan has no idea why the father he's named for committed suicide. A searching story of a boy's too-early coming of age
 The Namesake begins when Evan is asked to "write about what he knows" for college essays, by teachers sure that such a gifted artist will get a full scholarship. What Evan knows is not as much as what he doesn't know, however. He doesn't know why his father chose to hang himself on Easter morning while he and his mother were at church, and what the secrets of a small town can tell him about his father . . . and himself. Hoping to finally uncover the truth, Evan and his best friend, Alexis, dig into the town's past only to discover its dark roots . . . and that some secrets are best kept hidden.

This is a story where the title’s meaning plagued me like a case of the measles; my own fault because I have that “have to know” sorta nature.  I was constantly trying to figure out exactly what it meant.  I mean to define the word namesake (according to Google) in its simplest form it is “a person or thing that has the same name as another”.  Okay, cut and dry; the connection is that the son is named after the father.  Whew….mystery solved; or rather not.  You see, there’s more here than meets the eye (surprising, right? ^_^) and whatever you think you’re seeing is probably not what it seems but something entirely earth shattering buried under several layers of  guise.  In a word…it’s GOOD.  In two words, it’s REALLY GOOD. 

The writing will keep you hooked the whole way through as will the connections you forge with the characters…mainly Evan and Lex.  Evan is our lead narrator and the son of the deceased trying to figure out not only life in general (raise your hand if you’re sharing his boat in that instance) but also why his father took his life in his own hands and called it “over”.  True, they had grown apart somewhat; but what teen boy and father don’t.  True, his mother and father both were having troubles, even trying a trial separation to sort things out; but marital strife is common (unfortunately) and not insurmountable to the point of death.  The pieces just don’t add up and though Evan is not the most analytical person to walk the earth, he does let his heart be his guide…meaning that knowing WHY is of the utmost importance.  There’s no note, will or recent conversation to mull over…but what there is unlocks so many unseen doors that the journey back may be just as harrowing as the truths uncovered.  They say every journey begins with a step; in this case, it will begin with the turning of a page.

I have to admit, the issues dealt with are what made this a hard read for me; not in the “I-can’t-read-this” way because as I said, the writing wraps itself around your mind and won’t let go, but in the “I-want-to-read-this-but-geesh-if-I-could-only-throttle-a-few-of-these-people” way.  To put it bluntly, it’s a classic case of “mother knows best”…and no, I’m not insulting your mother or even insinuating what happens was purely the mother’s fault; it’s just adults being adults to the extreme.  How to put this without ruining it for you…hmm….*ponders*  It’s a situation of listening but not understanding (though I surprised myself by suspecting some of what actually occurred well before any big reveals).  When one is presented with a situation we either find unfathomable or undesirable, denial is the minds escape…the problem with that being the only acting force is often times we are put into a state of inaction thereby stymieing us from solving the problem or ending the terrors at hand.  THAT’S the infuriating part here…that’s the part that makes you want to scream WHY DIDN’T YOU BELIEVE….WHY DIDN’T YOU LISTEN…WHY WHY WHY?!  There…I’ve said my piece.  Moving on…

Lex is Evan’s best friend and if he had his way, potentially more…but even she does not get off scot-free.  Her past is tinged with sadness deeper than the Atlantic and wider than the river Nile…again through no fault of her own.  As hard as it would be to read her story, at the same time I can’t help but wonder what it would be like to get to know her character better.  The glimpses we see of her with Evan and through Evan display a spunky girl with a mind of her own that walks to her own beat…despite all she’s seen.  She’s strong as she seems but even the hardiest flower has its weak points and she is no different.  Thank goodness for friends because just as Evan needs her, she depends on him.  It’s a good give and take relationship that’s sweet and nourishing to both souls in all the right ways; something the lives in this story truly need.  That being said, each character contributes something to this work from the bully who isn’t (or maybe is still) to the authority figures that miss the mark…but try to forget them; you’ll be hard pressed. 

In summary, it’s an exercise in creativity the really shows how when the right idea meets the right mind, amazing things can happen.  This story invites you into the lives of a few, reaches out to many and shows us that even in the darkest of abyss’ there is light …and no, it’s not a train.  There is something to be learned from every encounter both good and not, if only we will open our hearts and minds to the possibility.  Sometimes what might be uncovered is beautiful, a Rembrandt amongst idle hands sketches; other times it’s a backyard special masquerading as a Picasso…but there are brush strokes of truth in each and they are equally important.  The vivid images created here are startling, sad, moving and many more emotions in-between but the overall effect is a masterpiece. Recommended read for older teens through adults due to content…it’s not explicit however the issues and ideas dealt with are not something I’d want a younger reader exposed to; life is hard enough without introducing wee little ones to the darkness that can reside in the human soul.

ARC for review courtesy of Leyane at FSB Associates.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title as well as their upcoming promotions, be sure to visit their official website or sign up for their newsletter.  To check out more of the titles out now and coming soon from Merit Press, a division of F+W Media, Inc, be sure to visit them online.  Seeking more about the mind behind the work?  Author Steven Parlato is reachable online via his website and Facebook page. 

Until next time…happy reading!

READ ALL ABOUT IT: BookTrib & Meryl L Moss Media celebrate 20 years of author love!

Hi guys!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers...the place that despite Father Time's many attempts at roadblocking my bloggy fun, it GETS DONE anyway.  *nah nah nah nah nah nah* ^_^

Anywho...I have some exciting news for you today.

Wait, scratch that...EXCITING NEWS (that's better) for you today.

If you haven't heard yet, be prepared...it's gonna take up several dates on your calendar starting this month as BookTrib.com celebrates their 20th Anniversary of promoting authors with Meryl Moss Media Relations in a BIG way!  To keep you in the know and add to your ever growing list of favorites, they've planned 20 LIVE CHATS for 2013...and that's just the beginning because if you've ever been to one of their online events, you KNOW they love to "hand" out party favors to participants.  

The first event is coming up fast and features an author who recognizes the importance of having a few special girlfriends in our lives as does her latest release.

Mark your calendar, here comes the scoop!

Who:  Susanna Sonnenberg,

author of SHE MATTERS: A LIFE IN FRIENDSHIPS

What: BookTrib LIVE CHAT

Where: BookTrib.com -- of course!

When:  Thursday, Jan. 31, 1 p.m. ET

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

About the book...

SHE MATTERS is an antidote to the typical book on female friendship:  it is honest and rigorous where others are sentimental. SHE MATTERS explores the intensities, subtleties, and frailties of friendships between women through Sonnenberg’s reflections on her own powerful and intimate relationships.  The early part of the book is devoted to development and missteps, including some friendships that lasted only a few months or a year but were nevertheless psychologically significant.  Later, Sonnenberg focuses on complex and enduring relationships as she delves deeper into the ambiguities of connection.                  

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

What people are saying...

“As much as we cherish the men in our lives, we need women to confide in, to vent to and to fashion ourselves after. For Sonnenberg, these friendships provide ways to try on and discard identities; they also provide the lenses through which she views herself and comes to understand love, loyalty and betrayal.”

--New York Times Book Review

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

So if you've got the time, you already know the place and you can count on it being a BLAST.  The more the merrier so invite your friends, family, or hey, I know; make it a group event and gather your closest girlfriends from near and far!

Special thanks to Alissa at Meryl L. Moss Media Relations, Inc for the heads up!  (THANKS!)  For more information on this event as well as a whole lot of bookish fun, be sure to visit them online, or follow along on Twitter.

Until next time...happy reading!

Light from a Distant Star by Mary McGarry Morris

Hi guys!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers…the place to be when the need to read strikes and you’re looking for a recommendation; happy to oblige if I may!  ^_^

So, for those of you I chat with usually throughout the week, you may have noticed my lack of presence on the social media sites…for that I am truly sorry.  No really, I am!  I love talking with you guys and making connections and adding to my TBR and the whole lot of it…BUT, this week work has been killer with a capital “K” and I’ve been unable to break free long enough to indulge in the lighter side of things.  *sigh*  Not to worry though…things are almost back under wraps and I’m thinking next week will be a bit more open; hopefully…it better be (*glares at next week*).  Anywho, reading has been getting done so what say you to a review of one of my recent completions?

Today, we are jumping back from the land of Children’s Fiction straight into the arms of hardcore Fiction.  Why hardcore?  Simply put, because there it no doubt on where this title should reside; it fits its given niche perfectly.  The chosen book features a stunning cover that really makes you want to see where the girl is running too…or from…and to or from whom or what.  It opens so many questions in your mind even before you’ve read one page.  It’s one of those situations where the cover art and title work perfectly to draw you in…whether you stay enraptured or not though is another question altogether.  But I digress, allow me to introduce this work properly and then we’ll get down to the nitty gritty.  Today’s book of choice is…

Light from a Distant Star

by

Mary McGarry Morris

From the publisher…

It is early summer and Nellie Peck is on the cusp of adolescence – gangly, awkward, full of questions, but keenly observant and wiser than many of the adults in her life. The person she most admires is her father, Benjamin, a man of great integrity. His family’s century old hardware store is failing and Nellie’s mother has had to go back to work. Nellie’s older half-sister has launched a disturbing search for her birth father. Often saddled through the long, hot days with her timid younger brother, Henry, Nellie is determined to toughen him up. And herself as well.
 Three strangers enter Nellie’s protected life. Brooding Max Devaney is an ex-con who works in her surly grandfather’s junkyard. Reckless Bucky Saltonstall has just arrived from New York City to live with his elderly grandparents. And pretty Dolly Bedelia is a young stripper who rents the family’s small, rear apartment and becomes the titillating focus of Nellie’s eavesdropping.
 When violence erupts in the lovely Peck house, the prime suspect seems obvious. Nellie knows who the real murderer is, but is soon silenced by fear and the threat of scandal. The truth, as she sees it, is shocking and unthinkable, and with everyone’s eyes riveted on her in the courtroom, Nellie finds herself seized with doubt.
 No one will listen. No one believes her, and a man’s life hangs in the balance.

Sounds harrowing, right?  It is…and it isn’t.  Here comes the explanation.

It’s been compared greatly to the infamous TKAMB, which if you recall my post a year or so ago…I adored; for me, that might have been part of its downfall.  When immersed in the read itself, I couldn’t draw the parallels between the two in any fashion but in retrospect, I can see faint lines illuminated.  A young female narrator whose voice goes overlooked by most, yet is more observant than even her own mind will admit.  Neighborhood bullies.  Associations with those considered “less” that are frowned upon in the chosen time.  A crime committed.  The possibility of a wrongful accusation made (you didn’t think I was going to confirm who did or did not do the wrong now did you?  ^_^).  An ending that serves to finish the story, just not in the way that you might have expected.  For me though, that wasn’t enough to draw the comparison; in fact, if it hadn’t been made, I doubt I would have made it myself.

To me, though the storyline was interesting as a whole, the flow of the narration, the recollection of events as they transpired and the march of time were exceedingly slow; even slower than the beat down truck from Charlie’s junkyard would be if its motor decided to miraculously come to life.  I’m not a reader that needs action all the time or even noteworthy life changing events every other second but if things aren’t at least rambling along at a walk in the country pace, it becomes painful.  How?  Well, I start every book with an open mind, an open heart and the idea that something within was fascinating enough to capture my attention.  (Don’t we all?  ^_^)  When I discover something other than that or rather in this case something that impedes that enjoyment, it saddens me…it’s like seeing a dancer fall flat on her tutu after so much work was put in to the production.  I really WANT to like the book and sing its praises but alas, my overall impression is lacking the needed spark.  HOWEVER, as we all know, one person’s less-than-favorite title can be the next person’s all-time-instant-classic…

In its favor, I can say this…despite the roadblocks I encountered, I DID finish the book.  Why?  No, not simply because I don’t do “DNF” reviews, but rather the mystery of “who done it” underneath it all HAD to be solved, or rather brought to light. I could not be certain who actually perpetrated the crime (though I did guess accurately with a little guidance from a character or two) nor imagine how or IF it would be fairly prosecuted and once things start to unravel enough towards the end of the novel for truth to sneak its way in, the pages flew by.  The cast of characters though larger in size (as in the one’s that “count” are rather numerous) works well and serves to show how varied a town, even as small as theirs, can be.  From Jessica (“friend” who has WAY more troubles than imagined) to Lazo (eccentric artist), Dolly (“dancer” and new tenant of the Peck’s) to Max (shady past that might overshadow his future), Nellie (our leading lady who is rather misunderstood herself) to Charlie (a cantankerous grandfather if ever I’ve read); the list goes on and on and yet you’ll remember each for their quirks and contributions along the way.  The title is fantastic, the cover art lovely, the ending...quite a surprise though I’m not certain if I was satisfied or merely placated.  It’s not what you’d expect but it is what it is…THE END.

Review copy received courtesy of Jonathan at Random House,Inc!  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title as well as their full collection, be sure to visit them online or across the social media landscape including Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google+.  This title celebrated its paperback debut July 2012 via Broadway Paperbacks, an imprint of Crown Trade and should be available now on a bookstore shelf near you.  Recommended read for older teens through adults.

Until next time...happy reading!

Things aren't always what they ssssseem....

Hi there!

Welcome back to another day, another post here at Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

Today’s been an interesting day to say the least, life wise and no, not in the “yay for me” vein, more like the “woe is me”…*sigh*…oh well, such is life sometimes.  ~shakes it off~ Darn day…go away already!  Hmm, it looks like it’s gonna need a little help to get the message.  I wonder if I can recruit some of the critters and creatures from today’s story; then again, that didn’t really go so well for Mr. Tillinghast, now did it.  *-*

What’s that?  You recognized that name?  Congrats to you my fellow avid reader; if not, no worries…we’ll get you on the right path here soon enough.  ^_^  Today, we are delving into the world of Children’s Fiction with a BOOK BIRTHDAY celebrant ready to PAR-TAY!  Now it is a costume event so I have to ask…who will you be going as?  Yes, WHO; not what, but WHO…and I’m not talking “in the guise of” here if you catch my drift.  Yes, things are not always what they seem and in this series, people are not often who they appear to be either.  Ready to enroll in another semester at Lovecraft Middle School?  If your answer was yes (as it should be!), gather up your courage, you’re gonna need it.  Today’s book of choice is…

Tales from Lovecraft Middle School, Book 2:

The Slither Sisters

By

Charles Gilman

Let’s see, now for those of you previously following the goings-on at this educational institution (or as I like to call it, “the-adventures-of-Robert-Karina-Glenn-and-a-truly-awesome-two-headed-rat”), you may recall that when we last left our trio + one, they had managed to narrowly escape the clutches of one pretty heinous monster, formerly known as Professor Gargoyle, only to be presented with the formerly lost Price twins who though back from who-knows-where, seem off somehow (< - understatement of the century!).  For a brief glimpse into Book 1, click over to the publisher’s page; for a quick recap, check out my review right here on the site.

Book 2 picks up just where the first left off (LOVE it when that happens!) leaving you more time to explore their world and the one Tillinghast purposefully created on accident (intentional oxymoron since he was trying to accomplish this just not the way it turned out).  Trust me, it’s a win-win because if the adventures continue the way that they’ve been, you’re gonna want a good long series to experience it in…or at least I know I do.  ^_^  Anywho, the Price sisters are back and running for student council president but despite their cupcakes every Friday platform, something is fishy about these two.  They act too prim too proper too EVERYTHING like they are auditioning for the role of a lifetime…and what’s with the obsession with swimming everyday at lunch, by themselves, and not coming up for air like after SIX+ minutes!  Yeah…whatever assumption you are making right now is WAY off base and probably TEN times easier to wrap your mind around than the truth of it all…but then again, that IS one of the reasons we love these stories so well.

The fate of the school, nay the entire class body (and their bodies…let’s not forget that part of things!) is hanging in the balance.  What’s a boy to do?  Oh, I know…run head first into the problem with a severe lack of belief in oneself and expect it to all turn out in the end, right?  WRONG!  At least partially wrong…while Robert is not the bravest, the strongest, the quickest or the anything-est, strength in this case comes in numbers.  In his heart of hearts, he really is all those things, believe me, I’m not knocking him down a notch, but he lacks enough sense of self to believe it (sound familiar?)…thank goodness for friends even if they are a somewhat motley crew.  Well I mean really, what else would YOU call a former bully, a ghost girl and a two headed rat?  Yep…that’s what I thought.  Description aside, they are the best friends a guy or girl could ask for and considering the situation they’re facing is pretty dire, it’s just the right mix to have a shot at making it out in one piece, as yourself…you know, not harboring any spirits, creatures or the like that aren’t already a part of you.  *ahem* 

Do they win this round against the dark minions of Tillinghast?  Yes in some ways…no in others.  You wouldn’t want me to spoil the surprise now would you?  Trust me, there is QUITE a surprise too…it’ll leave you with raised eyebrows and a gasp expression on your face whilst reading the last few pages for sure.  What you can count on though is another great read for fans of Middle Grade fiction filled with adventure, danger, courage, hope and good friends.  The new characters we meet along the way add to the overall flavor of the story as do those familiar souls that expose another layer of their true selves.  It’s a great combination that adds up to another successful release from an author that is leaving their mark in earnest on the reading world and a publisher that says “pfft” to boundaries by bringing us quirky hit after quirky hit.  So add a little celebration to your day and give a warm welcome to this title as it makes its debut…otherwise, I might have to brush up on the chant that Robert uses this go round and believe me, what it summons is NOT a pretty picture… (^_^)

Review copy received courtesy of Eric at Quirk Books!  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title as well as their complete catalog, be sure to visit them online, like them on Facebook, pin them on Pinterest, or follow along on Twitter.  To explore the world of Lovecraft Middle School before, after and during your read, stop by the official site, or check out their Facebook page.  Book 1 (Professor Gargoyle) and Book 2 (The Slither Sisters) are both available now on a bookstore shelf near you…and stay tuned for the next addition to the series, currently scheduled for May 2013, TheTeacher’s Pest!  Oh and yes…it will have a FAB lenticular cover JUST like the first two…can we say awesome sauce?!

Until next time…happy reading!

READ ALL ABOUT IT: The Namesake by Steven Parlato

Hi guys!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers...the place that no matter how busy, no matter how rushed, aims to please you with something bookish every day of the week; believe me, it's definitely one of those RUSHED days.  *-*

Yes, surprise, surprise...Monday is behaving like a Monday; go figure.  NO worries though because I've got a special treat for you courtesy of the great folks over at FSB Associates and Merit Press!  They are about to celebrate the release of TWO new titles this week, one of which I happen to be finishing as we speak and were kind enough to grant me the pleasure of sharing an extended excerpt with all of you!  I'm nearing book's end so things are really starting to form the complete nightmarish picture of all that has transpired...but I'll leave the final verdict for the upcoming review; trust me, it's a HARD read but a well written one at that.  Without further ado, today's featured title is...

The Namesake

by

Steven Parlato

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EXCERPT

Mister Pettafordi's office is examining room bright.

It makes me queasy, like I'm here for X-rays -- which, in a way, I am. My art teacher slash guidance counselor slash "Think of me as your friend" wants to help. That's how I landed in the vinyl visitor chair on the wrong side of his desk. I should be in silent study, passing notes to Alexis. Instead, I'm here, embarrassed for Michelangelo's David. He's beside the file cabinet, a red umbrella hanging from his crooked elbow, looking a little vulnerable, naked under the lights.

I need to write this stupid essay. Mr. P's fixated on getting me a full scholarship; he says I'm his "best student ever." But then, that's what my teachers always say.

Mister P: "Evan, you need to pursue your art."
Me: "Uh-huh."
Mister P: "Evan, you've got what it takes."
Me: "Hmm."
Mister P: "Evan, follow your dream!"

Thing is, I think it's his dream more than mine now.

But I'm trying to get a jump on this heap of applications. Pettafordi said I need to "dazzle them" with my essay. I asked what I should write about.

He said, "Evan, write what you know."

As helpful as that was, I've chosen the opposite. See, I'm not sure I want to study art, or even go to college anymore. So I'll write what I don't know. I could do twenty pages on spark plugs or the reproductive cycle of the Andean potato weevil. Except, those I could research. No. I'll tackle the true unknown.

I never knew my father.

I don't mean that in a trash TV kind of way. Like, Up Next, DNA Tests: Real Dads Revealed! It's not like that. Mom wasn't a sperm bank patron. I wasn't raised by wolverines. I've lived most of my fourteen years in a room two doors down from the man, falling asleep to his snores. I could map you his morning stubble, a whorl on his chin like Madagascar.

Nope. Nothing dramatic about the Galloways. We were typical. Mom made Campbell's soup casseroles. Dad fell asleep in the leather chair on movie night. We were about as normal as it gets. At least, that's what everyone thought.

Before last April.

Now when I think about stuff, it's all about how it used to be. We used to have Monopoly marathons. Build model planes. Gorge ourselves at China Buffet. We used to . . . whatever.

A great philosopher once said, "Used-to-bes don't count anymore."

Okay, it was this singer, Neil Diamond. My friend Alexis is a huge fan. But I disagree with Old Neil because, really, used-to-bes are the only things that do count anymore. Especially when today sucks so bad.

It's funny how perfectly life splits into before and after. Before, it was just life, crappy or un'. After, everything's different.

But I was going to tell you about my father.

My Father by Evan Galloway 
My father is tall.
My father is fun.
My father reads stories and 
Plays with me.
My father is the best, FATHER NUMBER ONE!

I wrote that in first grade. You could say my opinion of him has evolved. For one thing, I realized he was never all that tall. I admit the poem loses something sans macaroni frame, but I think it shows real literary promise. I mean, after reading that, I'm sure you can see how I ended up in Honors English, right?

Yeah, I'm smart. All through school I've been in the brain group: TAG, the Talented And Gifted Program. It's actually sort of cool, loads of field trips, elaborate, "self-guided learning opportunities." Sure, the regular kids call us "Tag Fags," but that's never really bothered me. Not much. It's jealousy, plain and simple. And come on -- tag fag? -- such an obvious rhyme. Leave it to a remedial reader.

Now I'm at Saint Sebastian's Catholic High School, third year, following Dad's footsteps. Yeah, he went here. But I one-upped the old man; I'll graduate at sixteen. They jumped me a couple grades. So I'm the second Evan Galloway to attend SSCHS. My family calls me "Junior," but technically, I'm not. Dad and I don't have the same middle name. Or, didn't. I do that sometimes, refer to him like he's still here. Like he didn't kill himself last spring. Like Gran didn't find him hanging from a beam in her attic Easter morning, while Mom and I were at Mass.

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About the author...

Steven Parlato, author of The Namesake, is a writer, illustrator, and an English professor. His poetry has been featured in Borderlands, Freshwater,Connecticut River Review, Peregrine, and Pirene's Fountain, and he is the winner of the 2011 Tassy Walden Award for New Voices in Children's Literature. He lives with his family, and is at work on his next novel.

For more information please visit http://stevenparlato.com and http://www.adamsmedia.com/merit-press-books and follow the author on Facebook

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Be sure to stay tuned for my forth coming review of this Young Adult title as we get ready to celebrate its BOOK BIRTHDAY debut!  Special thanks to Leyane at FSB Associates for the great information to share.  (THANKS!)  To catch up with them online, be sure to visit their official site or follow along on Twitter.

Until next time...happy reading!

The Ruffing Reader... ^_^

Meet Rocky!
He's a BIG slobbery boy but he is SUCH an angel.
We adopted him from our local shelter, and he's got a bit of a long
road ahead (heartworms...*sad face*) but he's a trooper. He gets
along great with my other fur babies and loves a car ride, walk or
milky bone like nothing else.

In truth, I think we needed him as much as he needed us.
So pardon the lack of books this weekend, but as you can see...I was
occupied otherwise.
^_^

Until next time....

Lost and Found by Bill Harley

Hi guys!

Welcome back to the Saturday edition of Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers. It's a quick post today while I'm on the go because, well...we're welcoming a new addition to the family courtesy of our local no kill animal shelter. His name is Rocky and he's a six year old beauty. Slobbery, but so well behaved...and he looks rather handsome in his blue bandanna. ^_^ Anywho...how is this relevant to a book review? It fits much better than you might think.

Today, we are stepping back to the land of Children's Fiction with a storybook from a publisher that knows this genre well...Peachtree Publishers (http://www.peachtree-online.com). It's a story that begs readers to look beyond the surface of things and reconsider the true value of something once lost that's now been found. Ready for the reveal? Let's do this! Today's book of choice is...

LOST AND FOUND

by

Bill Harley

Illustrated by

Adam Gustavson

It all begins with a misplaced hat. Justin is the young lad who has misplaced the hat, a gift from his grandmother, and is desperate to find it...but...is he desperate enough? You see, he's asked his

friends, checked with teachers and asked the office all to no avail.  No one's seen it but they know where to suggest he take his search next...the janitor. Why? Well, he's the keeper of the lost and found and where else would a lost item turn up? Problem is...the janitor is not the most approachable person in the world; to put it bluntly, he's downright scary. Is a lost hat really worth facing his fear or will seeing the disappointment in his grandmother's eyes be an acceptable outcome? Decisions decisions...but often times the choices we make lead to unbelievable revelations that can change a life.

Justin is a remarkable young man, especially since despite his trepidation about making the janitor's acquaintance he pushes forward through his fear of the unknown. It takes a lot of guts at that age...but then again he had sufficient motivation; a displeased mother and a disappointed grandparent to avoid. It's nice to see a young man care so much about his family and his belongings; all too often, similar portrayals are the exact opposite. As it turns out, Justin discovers a whole lot more than what he was actually searching for in

both material items, that get a second chance thanks to a new generation, and emotional maturity. It seems that someone else in the family had similar thoughts about a certain janitor once upon a

time...

In the end, you'll thrill at the unexpected treasures found in that chest of chests called the lost and found. Take a moment to marvel as its all brought to life with striking illustrations that appear to be painted works of wonder. Share in the message that judging a book solely by its cover or a person by the passing impression they present is not the way to live a full and rich life...because sometimes, that less then appealing exterior is protecting a treasure untold. You'll never know if you don't give them a chance...

Review copy received courtesy of Peachtree Publishers. (THANKS!) For more information on this title as well as their full catalog, be sure to visit them online, check out their blog, or follow along on Twitter (http://twitter.com/PeachtreePub). This book is available now on a bookstore shelf near you.

Until next time...happy reading!

BLOG TOUR: The Killer Poet's Guide to Immortality by A.B. Bard - Guest Post

Hi there!

Welcome back to the site that aims to please with bookish treasures every day of the week…Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

Today we play host to a blog tour event sweeping through the online communities as we speak.  From the great folks at Pump Up Your Book, it features a killer title that really gets its point across…puns TOTALLY intended.  It’s not a humorous book by genre (or at least not by the impression I have from my first glimpse) but it will certainly make you put a bit more consideration into checking out the work of that little known author whose book hides on the lower shelf in the dusty corner of your local bookstore.  *ahem*  With that in mind, let’s greet it properly, shall we?  Today’s blog tour guest and featured title is…

The Killer Poet’s Guide to Immortality

By

A.B. Bard

The Killer Poet’s Guide to Immortality is the riveting tale of a frustrated poet who decides that the best way to get his work read is by pinning it to corpses with a dagger. Alternately profound and hilarious, this novel chronicles in rapid-fire succession AB Bard’s obsessive murder spree, rise to media notoriety, capture, trial, and execution by lethal injection.
Then it presses further, into the future . . .

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

~shudders~

Anyone else get chills?

Upon reading the synopsis, I was certainly curious about the story (how bout you?), but I couldn’t help being reminded of the recent film The Raven as well…only in reverse.  (Anyone else see that one? Care to share your thoughts?) Either way you slice it though, I foresee body counts rising, investigators at their wits end and a poet who doesn’t know…when to quit.  A promising time indeed.  Anywho…

You all know my reading schedule is rather full, so when the opportunity for this one rolled around I opted for something other than the norm (i.e. a review by moi).  Say hello to my little guest post…or rather a guest post from the author of this curious little book that well, let’s just say it strays from the path of what’s considered usual.  Keep in mind, it’s all in jest guys, just some satirical fun to “pump up” the book…though one can’t help but wonder if a little “poet” is in the author themselves and of course the “hidden” (okay, not-so-hidden) message is totally clear.  Read on my friend, read on…

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GUEST POST:  Author A.B. Bard

Here’s a review of my book, ‘The Killer Poet’s Guide to Immortality’ by AB Bard, reviewed by Christopher J. Jarmick on Amazon:

To be quick and the to point: This is one of those rare laugh-out-loud books that's full of wild twists turns and surprises, not to mention sharp as a knife satire. Written in the voice of a madman poet who's willing to kill to promote his art (Poetry), I was reminded of Kurt Vonnegut's Kilgore Trout and in several ways Breakfast of Champions. This book is a wild ride. The author is fearless and even when it flies off the tracks, it's a great ride to be on. This is a must read for anyone who claims to be a writer/poet/artist.

And yet last night I went to a reading and one person was there.  It is discouraging to be off the mainstream publicity bandwagon.  Traditional media outlets won’t review my book.  Distribution goes nowhere.  My tiny publisher is always pushing the stone uphill, losing money.

There’s nothing upbeat to say about the perpetual humiliation of writing great work that goes unrecognized.  I just go on, one foot in front of the other, already dead inside. There’s too much slickly-packaged tepid ChikLit out there for me to compete.  I’m drowning in Fifty Shades of Meconium. Nothing short of suicide seems to be the answer to this marketing conundrum.

The Twenty-first Century was a bad idea.  The Mayans waited too long. Buy my book or I’ll take the poison.  You don’t want AB’s shriveled little atheist soul on your conscience, do you?  At Christmas time?  It’s just $2.99 on Kindle.  Even the paperback is only $12.95.  Not too much to save the life of a fellow human being.  Don’t even consider not buying it.  What kind of monster are you, anyway?

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

 Reclusive Seattle author AB Bard’s poetry has twice been nominated for the Pushcart. He is the author under a pseudonym of two other hysterical novels, or perhaps historical novels, neither of which is funny. Mr. Bard is not now, nor has he ever been, a member of the Republican Party. Mr. Bard does not Tweet. He was awarded a sheepskin (BAaa) from Reed College Sleeper Cell. His one super power is the ability to repel all conventional measures of literary success. Mr. Bard is lap to a cat, pal to a girl, God to a dog, & dog to the Man.

To find out more, please visit him at http://www.abbard.com

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Be sure to stop by The Writer’s Life as they are also hosting a stop on the tour today featuring an interview with the author; on Monday, this train will be jumping tracks over to Beth’s Book Reviews and Miki’s Hope. 

Special thanks to Tracee at Pump Up Your Book for the opportunity to host a stop on this tour.  (THANKS!) For more information on this promotion as well as those forthcoming, be sure to visit them online or follow along on Twitter (because unlike the author, they DO tweet…^_^).

Until next time…happy reading!