George R.R. Martin's Texas A&M Visit

(Picture from TAMU Libraries)
About a week ago, George R.R. Martin came to Texas A&M University to present the library with its 5 millionth volume. Yeah, that's right. Our library now has over 5 MILLION books! How lucky are we?? And the secret little nerd inside me was doubly excited because the book Martin helped purchase for us was a first edition Hobbit, illustrated AND signed by Tolkien.



Anyway...I thought I would share a little bit about his visit...

First off, I feel as if Martin would be a very cool guy to talk to. He seems a little like an eccentric uncle. If you just asked one question, he would talk for hours, going off on tangents and just amusing himself. I can imagine him waving a hand at a velvet high backed chair and saying, "sit down and let Uncle George tell you a story." He spoke about his love for books and how he became such a voracious reader. Growing up, he always had a book with him, no matter where he went. A baseball game? A family reunion? Didn't matter.

He was even able to poke fun at himself. He talked about the time he first read Tolkien's Fellowship of the Ring. He fell in love with it and then had to endure the excruciating wait for the next book. As most of you know, we've been waiting for the next installment of his Game of Throne series since 2011. The crowd laughed and clapped at his sheepish look.

Also, the man is a hoarder. He called himself a "pack rat" but we all know what that means. He can't throw anything away. He still has his first hardback book he received as a gift way back when. He has first edition comic books that are now worth $30,000! He tried to keep his TV guides, but his mother threw them away. He keeps filling up his designated book space no matter where it is. He build a home recently in New Mexico and he had a tower built specifically to store his books. A TOWER FOR BOOKS! In my mind it looks like this:


(I think this is motivation enough to become a best selling author...)

There was so much more that happened and I am so lucky to have been able to attend. It was an experience of a life time.

Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell

Type of Read:
YA Fiction/ Coming of age story

Plot Summary:
Cath is a freshmen in college, utterly alone in this new and terrifying world. Sure she had a twin sister, Wren, going to the same school, but they have started to drift apart. Wren wants to go to parties and experience college life. All Cath wants to do is stay in her dorm and write fanfiction for Simon Snow (aka Harry Potter). But life catches up with her. She makes new friends, finds a boyfriend, and discovers that there is more to writing then just Simon Snow.

Strengths:
I think the biggest strength comes from the details. Rowell has such a way of capturing character ticks and movements that it makes me jealous.

Weaknesses:
The only flaws I found were some awkward descriptions like: "his lips were the same color as the inside of his mouth." At this, I pictured purplish lips. Not attractive to me, but to each their own!

Reading other reviews and blogs, I found that some people didn't like how fangirls were portrayed. They felt that fangirls were looked down upon and mocked. I personally didn't get that impression. Sure there was some fun poked at the main character for still being obsessed with Simon Snow and writing fanfiction about it. Cath tries to hide her hobby even though she is really good at it. I mean, I'm still shy about telling people (even people I have known for years) that I dream of being a full time writer one day (not that I'm saying I'm good like Cath, but you get the point). But the Simon Snow obsession was an important plot point. For Cath, Simon Snow was her security blanket which *SPOILER* she eventually loosens her hold on. Cath might have been a nerd, but nerds are celebrated these days. Again, I personally didn't see anything wrong with it, but that's just my opinion.

Opinion and Recommendation:
I don't normally read fiction. I prefer to lose myself in a fantasy or a science fiction novel. But this was an exception. It was such a charming coming of age story. Also, I saw a lot of myself in Cath. She's reclusive, doesn't like change, doesn't like to be around a large group of strangers, doesn't open up easily, relies on her comfort zone, likes to bury herself in writing and reading, tends to have flawed logic that strangely makes sense etc. Seeing Cath mature was like seeing a flower opening. The romance in this book was so sweet and the ending was so perfect, that I still find myself thinking about it. I borrowed the audio book from the library, but I have added this book to the massive list of "Must buys".

Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones

Type of Read:
Fantasy

Plot Summary:
In a world where magic is real, Sophie, the oldest of three daughters, does not have much hope of making a name for herself. When she is cursed by the Witch of the Wastes and turned into an old woman, Sophie must venture out on her own and seek help from the horrible wizard Howl and his moving castle. Mishaps and adventures follow them as they try to solve a mystery and put a stop to curses and evil plots.

Strengths:
This book has nothing but strengths. I found myself giggling at the ridiculous characters and the events they find themselves in. I loved how spunky Sophie is and how bratty Howl acats. I loved the way the end brought everything together. Part of me wishes I read this book a long time ago (not sure what was stopping me!) but at the same time, I'm glad I waited. I had fun reading it, that I wish I could go back in time and experience it for the first time all over again!

Weaknesses:
The only weakness I found had nothing to do with the book. It was me. (It's not you, it's me!!) Seriously though, this is not a long book, and it shouldn't have taken me more then two days to read. But somehow it stretched out to four days! I think it had to do with just life in general cutting in to my reading time (don't people know to leave me alone when I have a book in my hand? I try to tell my library patrons this but they never listen...) After everything is said and done, I'm glad I took my time with this book. I relished the ending (which I stayed up late to finish) and I fell in love with Sophie, Michael, Howl, and all the other characters.

Opinion and Recommendation:
I LOVED this book! It was a surprise to many of my friends that I had never read it until now, but I'm so glad I finally did. When I first started it, I thought to myself "Eh, it's okay." I didn't really understand why people made such a big deal about this story and I was nervous that this would be another book that was inadvertently ruined for me because of all the hype it had received over the years. Let me tell you, this book has been praised since before I was born for good reason. It was magical, funny, surprising, and romantic (but not too much). It was such a joy to read that I can't wait to read it to my children. So yes, I will be buying it, and YES you should go out and get a copy for yourself! Really, go now...like right now...

The Mime Order by Samantha Shannon

Type of Read:
Fantasy/Dystopian

Plot Summary:
Paige Mahoney made it out of the compound that enslaved and brutalized clairvoyants just like her. Now she feels pressure to not only fight back against the evil that captured them, but to free the clairvoyants from their world wide suppression. The only way to do that is to become the leader of the class of outlawed clairvoyants, unite the wayward group into pursuing a common enemy and bring down the secret tyranny that rules them all. Of course this is easier said than done...

Strengths:
For one thing, the world Shannon creates is impressive. It has a dystopian/steampunk feel to it, yet it is set in the future. London itself is wrought with history, but Shannon adds a sordid past of clairvoyants and hidden invaders that sulk in the shadows. It is a rich world that is slowly revealed in vivid detail as the story continues. The mysteries and customs of the London Underground are creepy and fascinating, and I enjoyed every minute of it.

Another positive is the nonstop action. Normally when I read books where nothing seems to be easy for the protagonist, it gets a little old. ("oh look, they have yet ANOTHER stop to make before the quest is over...") The characters make dumb mistakes that lead to trouble. Paige, on the other hand, make decisions that are based on solving a problem or a mystery. She is curious and wants to get to the bottom of things. There are elements that fight against her, but every scrap she gets into is relevant to the story in some way. The action sequences were well written and kept the story moving at a fast clip.

Weaknesses:
There isn't many weaknesses in this book. The only one I can think of is the lack of recap. I will admit that I should have re-read the first book before I read this one, but I just couldn't wait! I had to go on a few websites to jog my memory of what happened because there would be references to events and people that were obviously important, but I only had a vague memory of what went on.

One of the things that I couldn't quite remember or wrap my head around is the fact that there is a complete section of London that belongs to the clairvoyants and their black market trade, and yet the government allows them to continue existing. If clairvoyants are outlawed and government officials go to all the trouble of tracking them down with high tech scanners, why don't they just raid the area? They could just go through like a fisherman with a net and scoop up as many clairvoyants as they want. Are the clairvoyants that well hidden that only the members of the underground know about it?

Opinion and Recommendation:
In my humble opinion this book was better than the first. Usually, there is a slump in the action or in the storytelling when it comes to the second book in the series, but it was as if Shannon hit her stride in this book. I enjoyed seeing Paige in her element, and I really enjoyed the criminal activities happening in the background. (I have a thing with thieves and outlaws...I blame Robin Hood) There are a few questions that nag the back of my mind, but hopefully they will be answered in the next book. I would recommend purchasing this book if you you like fantasy and grown up dystopian. I know I will be buying it soon!

The Last Unicorn by Peter S. Beagle

So I'm not sure what got me interested in reading this book. To be honest, for the longest time, I didn't even know that this was a book. I thought it was just an animated movie that weird '80s and '90s kids watched over and over again (like me). 

It turns out that it is a book and a well loved on at that. 

Tangent: What is up with the kids movies in the '80s? I think I've talked about his pretty often with my close friends, but I can't help but wonder how I was allowed to watch movies such as The Dark Crystal, The Hobbit, The Secret of Nimh. I mean, just look at this clip!

Anyway, on to the review! 

Type of Read:
Fantasy

Plot Summary:
A lone unicorn, after discovering that she may be the last of her kind, sets out on an adventure to find what became of her species. She meets friends, foes, and gets a taste of what the world has become without unicorns as she goes on her quest to free all the unicorns of the world.

Strengths:
This is such a classic book. It is magical and funny and full of wonder. It's one of those books (at least for me) that you find yourself thinking about long after you've finished. I especially liked how the story is told mostly from the unicorn's point of view, but she still remains mysterious. The narrator does drop hints about unicorns every once in a while, but it always feels like this should have been common knowledge to the reader. For an exaggerated example: Unicorns are the most majestic immortal creatures to have ever existed...but you knew that already, right reader?

I also liked how the there were little breaks of humor sprinkled throughout the story. The plot can get a little bleak around the second half of the book, but Beagle does a great job of still making the story light and fantastical. I found myself chuckling at the little jokes and smiling at the modern references that are scattered in the book from beginning to end.

Weaknesses:
My only complaint was there are parts in the book that seem to drag a little bit. The characters spend a good fourth of the book trapped in a castle where not really anything happens. Granted there are some subtle plot points that are made during that sequestered time and they are important, but it does kind of slow down the book a tad.

Okay, one last weakness. This book doesn't have a distinct happy ending. Sure everything turns out alright, but there isn't really a "Happily Ever After." Apparently unicorns mess with people who meet them. After loving a unicorn and spending time with one, all you want to do for the rest of your life if chase after them. This isn't a good idea because unicorns are immortal and they don't care. They will just hide from you or run just out of your reach...forever! But at the same time they can't help it. It's just a part of their nature. Even the main unicorn doesn't really have a happy ending either because she is changed and "not like the other" unicorns. It's a little bitter sweet...

Opinion and Recommendation:
I really love this book. It is one of those books that I want my children to grow up reading. What little girl wouldn't want to grow up with the knowledge that unicorns are out there caring for the animals and plants in an obscure forest somewhere? And what little boy wouldn't want to hear about the heroics of wizards and knights? After reading this book, I can see why I was so enthralled with the movie as a child (the scary harpy and all). I plan on buying this book in hardback if I can ever find it for a reasonable price. I think because it is considered such a classic, booksellers can put outrageous prices on it...but one day it will be mine! So find a copy and read it. Five million people can't be wrong.

Pathfinder Series by Orson Scott Card

*Since this is a review of the entire series, I'll try to do it with as little spoilers as possible*

Type of Read:
Young Adult, Sci Fi

Plot Summary:
Rigg was raised as a trapper in wandering the woods with his father. Rigg has a unique talent of being able to see "paths" of animals, humans, and plants. When his father dies, he sets off on an adventure recruiting other friends with talents just as unique and world changing as his. As Rigg and his friends develop their powers and learn more about the world they live in, they also discover a broader plot that effects not just the people of his world, but of other worlds as well.

Strengths:
This is an incredibly smart series. It makes you work for it, but the story is great. This mainly deals with time travel, which can be a very tricky business. There is the trouble of duplicating yourself, drastically changing events, not running into yourself if you go back in time, not letting other civilizations see your advanced technology before it has been invented, etc. The neat thing about this series is, as the reader is discovering the problems and advantages to time travel at the same time the characters are. It's a really interesting way to introduce the reader into the world.

Card has a way of making his characters real and believable. They have doubts and regrets, they get jealous and bitter, but through it all, you never stop liking them. All the main characters are inherently good and extremely intelligent, and yet they just make mistakes just like you and me. You can still root for them even if they are being petty and disagreeable.

Weaknesses:
This book makes you work. It's not an easy "sit down and read" book. You have to concentrate and focus for it to make sense. There were times where I had to go back and read a paragraph or two because I felt like I missed something. There were also times where I kind of just took the author's word for it that a certain time-travelly action wouldn't work. (You mean you can't go back in time because you would duplicate yourself 100 times and end up floating in space because the world rotates and is never in the same spot? Okay, Uncle Orson. I believe you.) There were even times when I had to set the book aside and take a break because I felt like my brain had soaked up as much science as it could take. But of course I would find myself wondering what happens next and pick up the book almost immediately.

Also, there isn't a lot of action in this book. Sure, the characters can hop back and forth through time (which is cool and confusing) but there are a lot of times when they are just standing around talking. It's important talk, but still just talk. It's like every time they have to make a decision, they stand in a circle and talk about it for a good 5-10 pages. And don't get me started on the inner conflicts. They tend to go around and around with arguments and problems, but don't let that stop you. They eventually work everything out and have a stellar plan.


Opinion and Recommendation: 
I don't normally go for Science Fiction books mainly because I don't think I'm smart enough to understand them. I'm not dumb, but when it comes to physics and science, things tend to go over my head. This series was different. I enjoyed the challenge that came with it and I'm glad that I finished it. It was definitely worth it. I own the first two of the series and I had checked out the last one from the library. It's not at the top of my "to buy" list, but maybe one day I'll purchase it just to round out the collection.

Night of Cake and Puppets by Laini Taylor

Type of Read:
Novella, Fantasy, Romance

Plot Summary:
This little story takes place in between the first and the second Daughter of Smoke and Bone books. It centers around Zuzana, a small yet feisty artist, and her soon-to-be-boyfriend, Mik. This is the story of how the two of them officially met (although they had been admiring from afar for quite a while) and had their first date.

Strengths:
This is an incredibly cute story. I normally don't go for romances, but this one is chaste and sweet, with a touch of quirkiness. The best part is being able to see into these two minor characters' minds. They are adorable and funny. They each have distinct personalities that mesh perfectly. They just belong together!

Also, there is the thrill of the chase. Even though I knew they ended up together, it was still exciting to see how everything unfolds. These two are like a fairy tale couple (this statement comes into play in the final installment of the main series, but not saying anymore so I don't spoil it!)

Weaknesses:
It was short. Like less than 100 pages. Yes, I realize that it's a novella, but I love Mik and Zuzana! If you've read Laini Taylor's entire series, you know how cute and perfect they are together, but without being mushy and annoying. I wish there were more stories staring the two of them. (hint, hint!)

Also, this is not a stand alone book and it's not a good place to start if you are thinking of jumping into Taylor's world.  It's a good idea to have at least read the first book in the Daughter of Smoke and Bone series before reading this novella. Zuzana is a very quirky character and while Karuo (the main character of the main series) doesn't appear much in this story, knowing her background helps.

Opinion and Recommendation:
I really love the way Taylor writes. It is like poetry without really being poetry. Everything just flows. Although this story had a different voice, the details and the inner dialogue still had a magical feel to it as does everything else Taylor writes. She captured both the character's quirky voices and made you wish all first dates went this well. I managed to check this novella out at the library, but I would buy it in a heat beat if it ever came out in print. (Not that there is anything wrong with e-books, but I really enjoy seeing my favorites sitting prettily on the shelf. I sometimes brush my fingers over their spines and whisper "my precious". Creepy? Don't lie. You do it too!)

Well, hello...It's been a while...

Oh blog, how I have neglected you...

I realized I haven't written anything since the end of November! Not that many people read this, but if I don't write anything than NO ONE will read it. (Although I strangely had 10 views on my blog the other day without writing anything...) So I'm going to make a tentative promise: I will write at least three book reviews a month. There I declared it. It shall be done!

...I guess since I'm behind a month, I better get started...


To tide you over, here's a cute kitten laying on books: