The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan

Genre: Children's, YoungAdult, Independent Reader -- Fantasy Fiction
Source: Purchased

I tried to write my own synopsis for this one, but found it to be a bit more difficult than I expected. So I'm going to use Amazon.com's if you don't mind ;)

Synopsis from Amazon.com: Carter and Sadie have nothing in common but their parents: their father Dr. Julius Kane, a brilliant Egyptologist, and their mother, a famed archaeologist who died under mysterious circumstances when they were young. The siblings barely know each other, but one night, their father brings them together at the British Museum, promising a ‘research experiment’ that will set things right for their family. His plans go horribly wrong. An explosion unleashes an ancient evil – the Egyptian god Set who banishes Dr. Kane to oblivion and forces the children to flee for their lives. Now orphaned, Carter and Sadie must embark on a dangerous quest – from Cairo to Paris to the American Southwest, to save their father and stop Set from destroying everything they care about.

Review: Being a huge fan of the Percy Jackson series, I just had to get my hands on this on the day of its release. I have to say, I'm incredibly happy I did so. I'm going to go straight to the point: I LOVED THIS BOOK and I highly recommend it to readers of all ages.

Now that I got that crucial part out, it's up to you if you would like to continue reading this review. The truth is, I only have positive things to say about this addicting novel. The only negative thing I can think of is that this is just too incomplete -- it is torture that we have to wait for the next chapter of The Kane Chronicles to come out! Nevertheless, I'm here to explain exactly why I loved it so.
First off, there's no doubt about it; Rick Riordan can write. Once again, he does an awesome job combining mythology with the modern world. His wordplay is still as effective, most especially when he gives details, whether they're on the story's settings or on character descriptions. This allowed me to truly have a clear and vivid depiction of what's going on. Also, I appreciated the fact that there was just enough background information on Egyptian mythology, without it sounding like a boring lecture -- this is important, actually, as I certainly don't want to feel like I'm reading a textbook!

The main thing that I loved about this though, are the main characters themselves; Carter and Sadie. I love them, because they seem so real -- I was able to empathize, root, and feel for them. I also liked that in the book, they both get to be narrators. I thought at first it wasn't going to work. Fortunately, it did. Having two completely different POVs let me get the entire picture, and get both sides instead of just one. You also really get how distinct the two of them are -- and their personalities -- through their voices. By the end of the book, I felt like I truly had a grasp of what this series is ultimately all about, and who the characters truly are. So overall, I loved this novel because it is well-written, exciting, believable, and is rich with complex and multifaceted characters. It is a series I will definitely be looking forward to.

If you are to read this, try to take it for what it is, without high expectations, and you might enjoy it even more ;)
Please note also: try not to compare it to the Percy Jackson series, because this is really different, even though it is still about mythology. The characters and their voices are absolutely different. But okay, maybe some of you are still wondering: Was it better than the Percy Jackson series? Hmmm... the truth is, I think I'm just incredibly biased, because Percy Jackson and Greek mythology will always have a special place for me. However, I also can't deny how much I enjoyed and loved this one as well. You decide. For me, The Red Pyramid gets 5 stars.

Today is Mother's Day

First of all, happy mother's day to every mom out there who might be reading this -- this includes you awesome mom bloggers! ;) And to my mom! Here are the bouquet of carnations my dad got for her!

Today, for some reason, we all just weren't in the mood to go out -- perhaps it's a combination of the crowd, busy places and establishments, 1-2hour wait at restaurants, among many others. So instead, we decided to celebrate Mother's day at the comfort of our own house. It was a very low-key and laid-back little celebration, which was actually really awesome.

I was also able to finish The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan today, so my review will be coming up soon for that one. I have to admit, it was nice that I had the time to blog and read some posts again! I haven't been able to do that much all week.
Another exciting thing: I was able to work on the little 'Show and Tell' project for this blog, which will be up veerryyy soon hopefully! 'Show and Tell' will have photos of fellow bloggers, showing their favorite books! Watch out for that ;)

My sister and I did end up going outside, just to pick up dinner and such. It was quite a nice day out -- sunny with just the right amount of wind and breeze.

And for dessert -- because of course you have to have dessert on special occasions -- we had a berry pie with some french vanilla ice cream. Yum.

Oh and I'm going to go on ahead and show you something I'm super, super excited about!

I'm getting additional wall book shelves soon -- three to be exact!!! This is a birthday gift given to me by Timbooktoo -- I've mentioned him before, and just in case you didn't know yet, Timbooktoo is someone who might be mentioned quite frequently in this blog and will have that said nickname from now on. I'm so happy the lonely books kept in boxes under my bed will finally have new homes.

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But yeah, that is all for tonight! How about you? What were you up to today? Happy Mother's day again, and hope you all had a great Sunday -- and overall, an awesome weekend! I'm off to go read and maybe, write.. or maybe just watch a DVD or something.. who knows?

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

Well, it's still actually Sunday here in California.. but I'll do it anyway!

It's Monday What Are You Reading is a weekly meme hosted by Sheila at One Person's Journey Through A World of Books.

This week, things were a little bit busy and hectic around here for me, so I didn't have a lot of time to blog, and I certainly didn't have as much reading time as I wanted. So because of that, I have only read ONE book (!) this week. Fortunately, that one book is none other than:

The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
Genre: Young Adult/Independent Reader Fantasy Fiction

I went ahead and bought this on the day of its release, which was on May 4 -- this past Tuesday. I have yet to post up my review for this one, but I have to say I had a really great time reading a story centered around Egyptian mythology. Hopefully, I might be able to post up my review for this in just a day or two.

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CURRENTLY READING

BLOGS!!! I am reading blog posts after blog posts -- from book blogs, fashion, personal, and photo-filled blogs. I think I'm quite addicted.

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BOOKS I PLAN TO READ THIS WEEK:

Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card
Genre: Children's & Young Adult/ Sci-Fi Fiction

Fablehaven: The Rise of the Evening Star (Book 2) by Brandon Mull
Genre: Children's Fantasy Fiction

Invisible Circus by Jennifer Egan
Genre: General Fiction

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Hopefully, I'll have a better reading time this coming week. I actually can't wait, because I really want to start on Ender's Game and Fablehaven Book 2.
But that is all for me this week! How about you? How was your reading week?

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer

Genre: General Fiction/Literature
Source: Library
Synopsis: When 9-year-old Oskar Schell's father died in the 9/11 attack, what he was left with was a mysterious key, kept in an envelope, labeled "Black." This forces Oskar to search for the specific lock that will match this key in the city of New York. Through his adventures and quest in the bustling city, he comes face to face with other people affected by other tragedies, attacks, and loss. Ultimately, with this quest, Oskar Schell might actually learn a thing or two about life... and human nature.

Review: Well, this book sure wins the 'Most Innovative Storyline" award. Backed up with Jonathan Safran Foer's wonderful prose and writing, well, it seems like we got quite a winner here. That being said, it's quite clear; I loved this book!Do I recommend it? Yes -- but... in my opinion, it seems as if this is just not a book for everyone. I have read mixed reviews and heard different opinions about this, and I can see both sides pretty clearly. Maybe it's just one of those 'You either love it or hate it' kind of read. For me, I loved it for several reasons.

• The story is real and did not seem at all contrived
• Oskar Schell is believable as a 9-year old boy, suffering from loss and searching for meaning.
• He is just likable! And as a reader, I couldn't help but sympathize with him.
  

As for the other reasons why I love the book, these are subjective, and I think these might also be the same reasons why others seem to not like it.

• The book was a wonderful mix of very different things; sad, happy, melancholic, jolly, pessimistic, optimistic, negative, positive.
• As I already mentioned, Jonathan Safran Foer's writing is good. It was however, edgy, strange, and just plain different in terms of style. It might be something you have to get used to.
  

For me though, I thought it was a great book -- very well written and well told. It has a solid story, with a message that is both thought-provoking and profound.
If you would like to check this one out, please do. But first, try to read the synopsis, and maybe even the first chapter if you get the chance. Then judge if it's something you think you would like. I'd love to hear what you thought about this one if you have read it.

Inspiration: Untitled

Just minutes ago, before this post, I was laying in bed; a bit of sunlight shining through the window blinds. The warmth of the day hits my skin just right. As I cover half of my face with my arm to shield my eyes, my collection of vintage glass bottles -- sitting quite proudly on the window ledge -- reflect their rather pretty and natural glow of lights; green, blue, lavender, white. A book lays right next to me, as if to serve as company. Music blares with the voices of some of my favorites; Jason Mraz, Ingrid Michaelson, Carla Bruni, Billie Holiday, She & Him.. among many others. This brief moment of relaxation, proves, at least to me, that even the little things can truly make one's day brighter. So here's to you, hoping you all have a wonderful weekend.

(src)

Now I am curious; what are the little things that make your day much brighter for you?
P.S. Happy Mother's day tomorrow! ;)

Fablehaven by Brandon Mull

Genre: Children's/ Young Adult/ Independent Reader : Fantasy Fiction
Source: Purchased
Synopsis: Kendra and her brother, Seth, are to be sent for two weeks at their grandparent's house while their parents go for a vacation. They do not know much about their grandparents, as they were never really close with them. But what they never expected was to find out that their grandparents are actually the current caretakers of a hidden sanctuary called Fablehaven.
Fablehaven is a secret refuge where mystical creatures like fairies, imps, ogres, and other beings are kept safe. It is beautiful as it is dangerous.

At first, Kendra and Seth are having nothing but harmless fun and games with their new found knowledge about this magical land. However, when the rules are broken, things might go just a little too far...

Review: Fairies, imps, witches, ogres... to tell you the truth, I've read all about them before. However, Fablehaven goes an extra mile. The author, Brandon Mull, has created a wonderful world of magic, adventures, and mystical creatures in the first book in this exciting series. Through his writing -- and wonderful prose -- he is able to paint a clear and vivid picture of the land and its inhabitants. In fact, they are so clear that I found myself pausing once in a while, as I try to form my own images in my head as I read. The beautiful world of Fablehaven is definitely something that I didn't mind getting lost in, even for just a few days. By the end of this book, I was left craving for more!
As for the main characters, Kendra and Seth, I thought they were believable as heroes and heroines in the making. You just can't help but feel as if you have known them for a while now. Yes, they obviously still have a lot of growing up to do, but I find that that is actually the beauty of their characters. I just can not wait to see how they grow and become more mature as the story goes on.
Overall, I thought that this was a highly entertaining read that was extremely well-written and perfectly told. That being said, I highly recommend this to anyone of any age, who enjoys this kind of read -- mostly to junior readers (10+) and older -- as it truly is captivating. For lack of a better word, this book is just plain awesome. 5 stars!!!

Favorite YA Novels: Mr. Linky technical difficulties..

Hi everyone! If you were one of those that participated on last week's Top Ten Picks: Favorite Young Adult novels, unfortunately, Mr. Linky had some technical difficulties. It erased the entire list of links. So if you were one of the bloggers that joined in, please do link it up again if you don't mind! You can go to the post here. Thank you so much!

Top Ten Picks: Favorite Love Stories Of All Time

Top Ten Picks is a meme here in Random Ramblings where I would be posting just about that -- my top 10 picks! Every week, there will be a different and specific topic given. I will then choose 10 of my picks from that given category, create the list, and post them up here!

For this week, the topic is on our all-time favorite love stories. For this topic, we can include love stories from multiple -- and unlimited -- sources; books, TV, films, plays, etc. So in no particular order, here are my picks!

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Top Ten Favorite Love Stories Of All Time

1. Cupid and Psyche

I love the classic story of Cupid and Psyche because of its simplicity. It is an old-fashioned story of two lovers fighting against all odds, so that they can ultimately be together in peace.
This original sculpture of the two of them can be found in the Louvre museum in Paris, France -- which is one of the many reasons why I want to visit it someday.

From Books:

2. Jamie Sullivan and Landon Carter

Please forget its movie adaptation; have you read this book before??
I have mentioned Jamie and Landon in my previous top10 lists, and I've said the reasons why I love them so much. In my opinion, their story to me was one of the most believable -- not to mention one of the sweetest, cutest, adorable-est, swoon-worthy.. err.. umm.. sorry. I get carried away when I talk about them. The truth is, it has always amazed me how these two characters, who are only seventeen and still fairly young -- are able to have what I think is one of the most genuine love stories. Ever.

3. Henry de Tamble and Clare Abshire

I don't know if I like Henry so much, but I do love Clare. And I do love Henry and Clare together, if that makes sense.
To be honest, though this is about the two of them, I feel as if Clare is the main character here. This is mainly because I feel that she is the epitome of how a woman and a wife should be. Strong-willed, patient, loving, and independent. She is her own self. She is never afraid to fall, get hurt, or make sacrifices.
For me, Henry and Clare's love story is the epitome of a couple who can transcend and survive even through distance and time.

4. Jane Eyre and Mr. Rochester

To me, Jane and Mr. Rochester's relationship is also one of the most believable ones out there. Together, they learn more about themselves personally as well as each other at the same time. They learn who they are as individuals, and how to communicate with each other despite their differences. For me, this is a key thing in any relationship; to be perfect together, but be separate individuals still.
I have always loved them also, because their relationship proves that first impressions aren't always as accurate as we may think. Overtime, feelings change. We see other people differently when we get to know them better. I think Jane Eyre and Mr. Rochester proves this really well.

5. Elizabeth Benett and Mr. Darcy

This is another one that I love because of their relationship's "evolution." They showed how relationships -- both friendships and romance -- are able to grow if cared for. They showed the importance of accepting the other for who they really are, despite their negative sides. Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy also proved how important it is not to jump into assumptions about somebody; for that someone might end up meaning more to you than you would have thought.
Their story is about being true to yourself, accepting others for who they are, and loving them no matter what.

From Films:

6. Allie and Noah
The Notebook (2004)

I have actually read this one before I watched the movie adaptation. After watching the film though, I knew hands down, it was not only a lot better than the book, but it has also become one of the most unforgettable love stories of all time for me. It is old-fashioned, emotional, realistic, and believable.
A couple that has gone through it all. A story of young and first love, which continues to grow more despite everything they go through together -- and apart. A touching and inspiring story of two different people so powerful that they are able to prove that time and distance is again, nothing.

7. Nickie Ferrante and Terry Mckay
-- There are 3 different versions. From left to right: Love Affair (1939), An Affair to Remember (1957), and Love Affair (1994)

There are three different versions, but my favorite has to be the 1957 one. Despite this though, I have to say, this is another love story that does not matter when it was created, who made it, and who are playing the characters. The story is simple: Two different people leading two completely different lives meet each other. They fall in love eventually, but then they separate. With this separation, they decide that if over time, they still want to be together and if their love for each other remain, then six months later, they will meet somewhere. The question ultimately is.. will both show up?
Another reason why I love this film?? The piano theme by Ennio Morricone. You can listen to its beauty right here.

8. Joe Fox aka "NY152" and Kathleen Kelly aka "Shopgirl"
You've Got Mail (1998)

This might be one of my favorite romantic comedies. This is the story between two completely different characters -- almost somewhat like Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy, and in fact, in one scene, they compared each other to these classic characters.
Joe Fox and Kathleen Kelly found each other anonymously through the internet, and there, they become 'chat friends,' talking about random things that happen to them. Eventually, both start talking about more personal things; problems, their love lives, their careers, etc. Outside cyber space, in the real world, Joe and Kathleen are business rivals. They hate each other to bits, but sooner or later.. they both eventually have to find out who NY152 and Shopgirl's real identities truly are.
This is a great movie that showcases a story about unexpected circumstances; we never know who we're meant to be if we keep looking for an "ideal" someone. It is also about accepting someone -- and all the different sides they have -- for who and what they are.

9. Captain Von Trapp and Maria
The Sound of Music (1965)

This one I loved simply because you would never expect it to happen. I also have always liked the whole rich, arrogant, and elitist of a man falling for a humble and kind woman. Not only do they fall in love with each other, but through one another, they helped each other grow. Another thing I loved so much about their relationship was the fact that it was not at all cliche, naive, or juvenile. Over time, they have simple seen the good in one another, despite their negative first impressions. Another thing? Maria has helped Captain Von Trapp see again how important his children are and how crucial it is to pay attention to them, after years of ignoring them.

From Broadway:

10. Raoul and Christine
The Phantom of the Opera (1986 - ?)

The first time I have seen The Phantom of the Opera was in a 2004 film starring Gerard Butler as the Phantom, Emmy Rossum as Christine, and Patrick Wilson as Raoul. Since then, I have fallen in love with this magical tale filled with music, greed, vengeance, and love.
Just two years ago, I finally saw this live on broadway in San Francisco, and again, I fell in love with it. In fact, I loved it even more.
Christine and Raoul's story is the epitome of love that is gentle, unselfish, and kind. Their story mainly surrounds fighting against the Phantom -- who has nothing but bad intentions out of greed and selfishness for Christine. Raoul promises Christine protection, solace, refuge, devotion, and true love. He expressed all this through a song called "All I Ask Of You." I believe that the lyrics in this classic song written by Andrew Lloyd Webber sums up their love story. If you would like to listen to the song and read the lyrics, click here.

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Oh and just because we're on the topic of love stories.. if I had to pick one of the cutest couples ever, well, I think it's only fair that these two join in the list as well anyway.

Seth Cohen and Summer Roberts
THE O.C.

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Again, if you would like to join in, all you have to do is:

1. Do a post, listing all your answers. Like I already mentioned, you do not have to include pictures, descriptions, or explanations, but if you would like to do so, feel free!
2. Please sign the Mr. Linky box below with the specific URL of your post.

Can't wait to hear what you all have to say once again!