Instagram. I caved.

I got it. After saying no to getting an Instagram account, I caved. Add me and follow me. I post pretty random photos - some book related and some not. If you have an account, leave it down below.

username - JILLMRAY

:) I hope you all are having an awesome holiday!

used books and where they come from.

One of my favorite things to do, being a reader, is to go book shopping. I don't do it often though, and when I do, I usually buy online now. A few days ago, though I went to a used bookstore around my area. I was trying to look for a specific gift for someone, and while I was perusing through the titles, I found one book that was exactly what I wanted.

I opened it, and this was what fell on the floor. 

An old receipt from BORDERS! I'm sure most of you remember Borders. It used to be one of my favorite places - until they closed all their stores in the U.S. Anyway, this receipt dates back to November 13, 2008. Same month. Different year.

And it got me wondering about whoever it was that originally bought and owned this book. Why did they sell it at a used bookstore? Was it because they didn't like it? Was it because they didn't have a use for it anymore? It was a Field Guide to Professional Digital Photography book, and it made me wonder also, where are they now? What happened to their interest in Photography? Are they actually professional now? Or what? 

Maybe it sounds stupid that I was thinking all these things, but I couldn't help it. There's just something so intriguing about finding someone else's belongings from a while ago. 

Have you ever found anyone similar to this? And also, if you go to used bookstores, do you ever think about who owned the book/s prior? It may be a silly thought, but it's a thought nonetheless! 

Happy Monday. 

In 2012, I read less than 20 books

Well there we have it. 

2012 is almost over.

I think it's safe now to say that I have read less than 20 books this year.

I never really started counting the number of books I read in a year since 2010, but I know I've always read more than twenty for sure. And no, I don't necessarily care about the number. I do care, though, about the reason behind this inevitable slump. 

I am not sure it's cured quite yet, but I'm writing here and talking about reading and books and commenting on people talking about books... so maybe that's a start! 

That being said, I am so out of the loop. I haven't read one good book in months. I don't know anything about new releases, unexpected must-reads, and highly recommended titles. So please do recommend away. I am open to any genre. It just needs to be something YOU thought was amazing. 

What to Watch this December

Going to the movies is one of my favorite things to do. This December, it looks like I'd have to save up for those tickets! Here are some picks that I want to see myself, and think you should go check out too.

1. Les Miserables - December 25

The trailer for this movie... gives me chills EVERY. SINGLE. TIME. I can't wait for this. It looks like it will be such a masterpiece. While the music has always been familiar to me, I recently just saw the play live for the very first time during the Summer of this year, so it's still very much fresh in my mind. I can't wait. Anne Hathaway looks like she will be amazing.

2. This Is 40 - December 21

Okay, so maybe I won't see it, but I might! I can see watching this on a lazy rainy day, with a girl friend, when there's nothing else for us to do. It could be fun and it has Paul Rudd in it, who is usually on point! I like the seemingly light premise, so hey, like I said... maybe.

3. Django Unchained - December 25

Quentin Tarantino's films are always crazy and insane and out there, and they're either a hit or a miss for me. I do want to see this because it has Christoph Waltz in it (who was the main villain in Inglourious Basterds - which is probably one of my favorite movies) as well as Leonardo di Caprio. It seems to have the same dark humor Tarantino films usually have, and I may or may not enjoy it. Seems promising though.

4. The Hobbit - December 14

There are no words.

See you at the movies!

the last book I read.

I bought this book the morning it was released. I was anticipating to get my hands on it since they announced that my favorite author - and probably one of my biggest inspirations - is releasing a new book! I went into this lowering my expectations, knowing very well that I was reading an 'adult' novel. I finished it in about a week, and I was beyond sad for a while knowing I'd have to give it a 2 star rating.

What went wrong?

I think the characters went wrong mainly. There were just too many of them, and none of them were developed well enough for me to care about them. I didn't care if this person died or lived or got hurt or what... I just didn't care. The truth is, while reading this book, I just kept hoping it would end soon.
The plot was alright, but again, it just didn't seem like it was something I should care for.

I have to say the writing as expected is good. Simply put, Rowling knows how to paint a picture in her reader's mind. Or maybe, at least in my mind.

2 stars though, is all I can give for this unfortunately.

living with the worst case of reading slump ever.

I'm wondering if you still have any go-to bookstores around you or at least near your area. Here where I live, there's literally none. I have to drive at least 20 miles just for the nearest big box bookstore. This may not be a big deal for most people, but for me - as I'm sure you all can understand - this is an upsetting thing. I haven't really gone in a bookstore in a very long time where I live, and I truly think the lack of these visits - that used to inspire and motivate me to keep trying new titles and authors - have contributed to my lack of posts here. I miss blogging, I miss talking about books, and I definitely miss reading.

Lately I just have been so uninspired. This is probably the biggest reading slump I have ever had, and I am not a fan of it. 

I know a lot of you can understand that it's a big deal, and may have gone through the same thing. Your thoughts, as always, are more than welcome here. Thanks for listening. 

a little bit of what I'm working on.

I am very shy when it comes to things I write about. I usually don't share it. I have no idea if it's even any good, or if it's absolute garbage, but I figured it won't hurt to get some opinions. Thanks for reading.

----

I took a first look at her and I knew I couldn’t tell her how she looked like for fear that I might describe my appearance instead, which in itself, is beyond recognition. My mouth fell and my eyes were wide, I couldn’t believe how she was able to lay there almost dead, yet full of breath. I tried hard to keep the shadow of my tears from falling; she can not (should not) see the weakness in me when I see her ravaged and damaged by reality. Fear itself, they say, should not be feared, but if it’s alive and ready, will we be secure enough not to fall when it attacks? Its power is in its wings, and to make it fall means to crack your bones to even begin to reach. So I just sat there and held her hand. There was not much I could do. But they were so cold that I felt my veins and the blood in my body freeze, stopping my breaths for a minute or two. I was afraid, and felt stupid that I felt afraid. But it was a moment of realization; a figure of that somebody began to mean more than just the colors on her hair. Unexpectedly, she took my ability and my power, almost instantly. Remarkably.

When she finally opened her eyes to look at me, I saw the view of what she had to go through. It’s dark and gritty, and fluid can’t help but trickle down her soft body. She broke and she turned around, unable to even speak. Clouds hovered over her, and the nature of the room changed its course on its own. I sat still, not knowing what to do. Her face lit up and she managed to smile when she saw me. I was not sure what I was able to conjure, what type of magic or spell I said to see that ray come through. But it was there, and I knew, while he had broken her loudly, piece by piece, and I can hear the depth of the darkness that she was in, her flat pulse and the complex beating of her heart, instead of me promising her the echo of my footsteps, she was reaching over me and promising me hers. Right then and there, she had become my weakness.

August Recommendations!

I usually only do book recommendations on this blog seeing as this is essentially a book blog, but I thought I would start doing monthly recommendation lists from now on. These recs range from movies, music, television... books, of course. As I will try to do this at the start of every month, I encourage and invite you to write a list of your own! We can never have enough recommendations after all.

Movies

1. The Dark Knight Rises

I only have one recommendation this month, and I can not tell you how much you need to see this movie. If you are a fan of Nolan's epic take on the Batman character and the entire franchise as a whole, you MUST watch. It is seriously, probably, the best portrayal of Batman's true story. I am a fan.

Television

1. The Big Bang Theory

I only started watching this amazingly hilarious and smart television show at the beginning of this year. They're already on the 6th season, and I am not sure how I survived the last few years without ever watching this. It's genius. It's currently on a break but will be returning on October! Can't wait.

2. So You Think You Can Dance

I'm not really a fan of reality/talent shows, but this one is truly an exception. I have been obsessed with this show ever since it came out in 2005. I have been watching it religiously every summer. It just sort of started, so you can still easily catch up if you'd like. This show features talented dancers all competing to be the favorite. Think American Idol, but with amazing dancers and better judges instead.

Music

1. The Honey Trees

I am in love with this indie band. Their style is so original. I can listen to their music for days. Unfortunately, they don't have a lot out yet, but the songs they do have at the moment, are breathtaking.

Books

1. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

I mentioned this already at a separate post, but this was a book that I read a while ago but haven't really talked about. It's what I believe fantasy books should be. The writing is perfect, and the plot and character development is so effortless. It's a great read and I highly recommend it to true fantasy readers.

Do you have any movie, music, television, book recommendations for me for the month of August? Let me know. I am looking forward to reading what you all have to say. Happy Monday!

a confession + what inspires you to read?

I haven't read in a while. And even when I did read, I feel as if I am no longer in love with it. This feeling is totally frustrating to me, because even when I try to get engaged in a book, I just can't. Maybe it's just the books I've been reading. Maybe I just need something truly amazing to jump start my love for books again. At the moment, I have no idea just yet.

As always, I turn to you. I would really like to know what gets you inspired to read. What makes you excited to pick up a book? What are some books that always make you love reading? Help me, friends. I feel a bit at a loss here. You all know how passionate I feel about this as a whole, and I just want it back!

Recommendation of the Month!!

I know I have been M.I.A. lately, mainly due to me slacking off and being completely uninspired. I haven't read much lately to be honest, but today, a friend of mine reminded me of a good book that I have already read but have yet to recommend to you.

If you are a fantasy reader and fan like I am, you have to try The Kingkiller Chronicles by Patrick Rothfuss. The first book in the series is The Name of the Wind, and it is simply fantastic. I can't tell you what it's about since I don't want to spoil too much, but it's just one of those books you can not help but adore. It is wonderfully crafted by the author; its characters and settings so rich it'd be hard to tear yourself away from them.

Simply put, these novels make up one of my favorite fantasy series of all time. It has everything that I love about books and reading, and if you like the said genre, try it out. If you don't trust me, I hope the thousands of 5-star reviews will encourage you even more! Happy reading!

Fifty Shades of Complete Nonsense

For about two months now, I have been so out of the loop when it comes to books and what people are reading. I don't know if it's because of lack of inspiration, lack of ideas, or just pure laziness, but I just wasn't feeling it unfortunately.

However, these past few months, statuses about a certain not-so-little book from my friends on Facebook are being posted. You may have heard of it.

The reader in me just knew I had to pick Fifty Shades of Grey especially when my non-reader friends started raving about it, and asking me what I thought about it. Going into this, I had no idea what the book was even about - that was how out of the loop I was! I then found out its genre, which I haven't even tried before. To be honest though, my curiosity got the best of me. Why were so many people reading and raving about it? Is it really as good as everyone says it is?

So I read it. I finished it in a day. Here's my opinion. This has got to be one of the worst stories I've ever read. It was, and I don't think I've called a book this, just a complete waste of time.

First, the writing. It was like reading the worst fan fiction story ever. Fifty Shades of Grey was repetitive and unimaginative, as if the author found it impossible to come up with other ideas to make up this story. Chapter 14 sounded like Chapter 1, Chapter 17 sounded like Chapter 14 again, which makes it sound like Chapter 1... you get the point. There's no plot development whatsoever. Also, the events and situations just felt so incredibly forced (like a horribly acted soap opera) that I couldn't help but laugh in some parts.

The characters - just pure cliches! Predictable, abusive, self-indulgent, messed up, and obsessive - scary combination, and not executed very well either. There's of course the needy, dim-witted girl, who just needs a tough man to fill in the emptiness in her life. She wants her life to be spontaneous, exciting, exhilarating, and complete. Then there's the brooding male character. Good looking. Attractive in every way. Mysterious. A little dangerous. Actually has a huge heart. Note that he can be a little intense, abusive, and degrading, but "she likes it, so it's okay!" Yeah. That makes total sense!

As for the plot... was there even one?

Overall, I tried to enjoy this for the sake of entertainment. I tried. I failed. This book had no purpose, no plot, no likable and believable characters... I can go on and on. I will tell you this; if you like this genre and this style - PLEASE go to good, quality fan fiction websites. They will be so much better. I promise you.

Divergent by Veronica Roth

Genre: Young Adult - dystopian

Rating: 4.5 stars

Review: After hearing so many rave reviews on this book, I finally decided to go ahead and give it a try. I want to go ahead and say that first off, I really enjoyed this book. But before I say the things I loved about it, I'm going to mention one tiny little flaw I found I just didn't like. I didn't like that we didn't really get to see or catch a glimpse of the city of Chicago. While the idea of the five factions was fascinating, I found there's many things left to be desired. I wanted to find out more about the world outside the factions. How is the actual city of Chicago? How's the factionless? I wanted to see the entire world, to see what it has become. To me, that's the true point of a dystopian. Then again, that's also just my opinion.

That being said, I was still thoroughly entertained. The author, Veronica Roth, is excellent at story telling. She's able to draw her readers in with just enough details and descriptions, making the pace of the story perfect. I found that the world that was available - the factions - were awesome. I also really liked the characters, especially the main male lead. He was just very realistic - none of those typical male characters you read about nowadays. And also, I simply found the overall plot to be incredibly compelling. I couldn't stop reading - even at 2am, when I should be sleeping, I didn't want to stop as I wanted to find out what happens next.

So yes, I would definitely recommend this to YA fans and readers, adults, and dystopian fans. Must read for sure. It's a unique book and a unique story, told wonderfully. I am impressed and can't wait to read the sequel! Hopefully we get to see more of the actual city of Chicago, outside the factions, to get a real feel of what happened to it and what made it into what it is now. Overall, 4.5 stars!

last one to read this.

I may be the only one that hasn't read this book yet, since everybody's been talking and raving about it. I finally bought it though - only because I missed book buying so, so much - and I honestly can't wait to dig into it.

I hope it's good. If you've already read this, what did you think of it? Is it really as good as everyone is saying? No spoilers please, but I'd like to hear what you think! :)

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close

When I first saw the trailer for this movie adaptation, I was so excited, mainly because Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer is a book I love so very much. To me, it was genuinely heartfelt and beautifully written - definitely one of my favorite reads.

The movie, however, was disappointing. To me, it felt nothing but an attempt to emotionally manipulate its viewers. It was so obvious to me, in my opinion, that everything about the movie - the writing, directing, music, among many others - just seemed contrived, silly, and just plain cheesy.

The biggest disappointment for me though, was how the main character of Oskar Schell was portrayed. Oskar Schell (in the book) is such a loveable and dear character; one can't help but sympathize, empathize, and root for him.

In the movie, Oskar was portrayed as, in my opinion, a disrespectful and out-of-line child. His sadness and anger towards the people around him and the situation itself are not believable. In fact, it was just simply annoying. How can I like a movie with such an unlikable protagonist?

For me, I was just disappointed. I would not recommend it to fans and readers of the books.

I love Lord of the Rings.

I also love Google.

Happy Thursday!!!

Book/T.V. Show Recommendation!

I don't think I've mentioned this before, but I have been watching the show, The Game of Thrones, for a while now. I have to say, I am getting a little obsessed with it.

To be honest with you guys, before HBO made this epic fantasy-ish show, I didn't know that it was just an adaptation of a very popular book series, which I know is a shame. I only started reading the books when I found that out. That being said, I read the first book and managed to finish it in two days. I loved it. I was surprised at how easily I fell for the characters. They're believable; as the author, George R.R. Martin, really knows how to paint them in such a realistic way. I especially love the fact that this series has many strong female characters. For a fantasy/medieval power story, this is definitely a big deal!

Most especially though, he sure knows how to tell a story in an incredibly engaging way. It is such a complex story though that I don't think I will write a proper review for them because it will be hard to do so without spoiling it.

So, I'm just going to go ahead and say that yes, you MUST read the books. They are so well written, the characters are awesome, and the combination of many different types of genres is just pure entertainment to me. And yay for strong female characters ;)

As far as the show goes, I love it. I believe that it is good to be watched on its own, whether or not you have read - or planning to read - the books. I think it tells the story well, and the actors do a very, very good job portraying such badass characters.

wizarding world of Harry Potter (with pictures this time!)

You all know I have been wanting to go to the Wizarding World ever since they released this park, and finally, I did go two weeks ago. There seriously are no words to describe the feeling I got when I first stepped into this park. So, I figured I'll just leave you with photos from the day and with me saying, that if you can go here - tomorrow, the next week, next year, two years from now - GO! It's amazing.

I was one happy muggle.

book bucks + reading list for 1st graders

Earlier at work the kids came in the classroom all excited. It's time for book bucks again!! And I have to say, though I'm not the one getting to do all the fun and getting the prizes, I admit I get excited too when it's that time again.

I never had any sort of reading program when I was young and in school in the Philippines; I just sort of read on my own, and based off my cousin's and sister's recommendations. I'm wondering, did you ever experience the book bucks program? If so, were you as into reading then as you are now? And if you didn't get to do all that, how were your schools when it came to books and reading activities?

On another note, sort of related to that, I am wondering if you know any particular titles that are good for 1st graders. I remember reading Sweet Valley, Goosebumps, The Little Princess, among many others at that time, but I'd like to hear some more age (and school) appropriate titles that you may remember. I am trying to come up with a recommended reading list for 1st graders, and so far, it's been a challenge.

Looking forward to your thoughts and ideas!

The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness

Rating: 2.5 stars

Review: The Knife of Never Letting Go was one of those books that I really, really wanted to love. In some ways, I liked it. But for the most part, I really did not enjoy it.

I loved the concept first of all. I was definitely immersed in this world that the author created. It's highly imaginable and creative. Would I like to live in a world like this? Of course not, but it made me think of what it would be like if I did, and for a book to be able to make me imagine being in a fictional setting, is enough for me to give it a good rating.

However, there were some major flaws in this book. You may all know; I'm an emotional reader. It's easy for me to fall in love with characters and their stories, as well as empathize with them. But for this book, I wasn't emotionally invested at all. First off, I disliked the main character, Todd. I didn't find him likable at all, so I couldn't even care or root for him. Everything just felt a bit mechanical as well as contrived for me.

Also, I feel as if far too many books strive so hard to surprise their readers by giving twists and shocking information, that in a way, it has become incredibly predictable. This book is no exception to that trend.

I have to be honest; I really wanted to love this book, mainly because everyone keeps raving about it! And while there are some areas that I liked - like the concept and the writing - I wasn't particularly fond of the main character, as well as the story's pace and development. I can see why people love this book so much, but for me, something was just missing.

I need your help and support!

I would like to ask a huge favor from you guys. I just recently applied to a summer internship hosted by the Sierra Club and the North Face. They are looking for their 2012 Outdoors Youth Ambassador. They're looking for someone who can lead kids and teens during the summer time, doing all kinds of outdoor activities, all while video blogging and documenting the experience for the online community to see.

I believe I'm the right one for the job because I am passionate about nature, working with and helping kids, as well as blogging. The thing is, I need your votes in order for me to be included in the top 10 finalists. So please go to the link below, click the yellow thumbs up button to vote for me, and then watch the video if you'd like.

VOTE HERE

I would so greatly appreciate if you take the time to do this for me. I hope you guys are having an awesome weekend so far! Again, thank you!

should you watch the Hunger Games?

You all know I'm a fan of the Hunger Games series (despite my negative feelings towards Mockingjay and how everything ended) and that I have been excited to see this movie ever since they released the first teaser trailer for it. So, this past late Thursday night/Friday morning, I went ahead and saw the movie on a midnight premiere. And I have to say, I was very impressed.

I am not going to say much about it since I don't want to spoil the movie for you, but I felt like they definitely were able to capture the feeling of the book. It was dark, exciting, intense, and heartbreaking at times. Also, I thought the actors did an amazing job portraying their characters - especially Katniss and Peeta, as well as Haymitch, Primrose, and Rue.

I could also tell the creators of this film tried their absolute best to stay true to the book, and I think they did so very well. They put almost every single important aspect from the book; everything was so spot-on!

As a side note, I absolutely love the way this film was edited. I don't usually notice these things, but it truly stood out to me. Another thing that stood out was the soundtrack. Awesome music - definitely fits!

I've heard some people complain about the movie - to be honest with you guys, I have never been more annoyed to hear book-to-movie complaints than when I heard the things said about this one. Maybe it's because I genuinely thought the movie was good, and I couldn't personally find anything really wrong with it. Oh well... can't please everyone, I guess. And as always, to each his own, right?

Anyway, what did you think of it?? Let me know! And if you haven't seen it yet, do so already! Most definitely worth $10 (or maybe even more)

As always, happy reading, happy weekend, and may the odds be ever in your favor!

news: Florida, books, and BEA

So, it's official! I've talked about this numerous times - about how I wish I wish I wish, I could go to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter someday. I mean, let's face it; who wouldn't?? Well, finally, after about a year of just thinking about it, our little getaway is booked. We're going to Florida for a good six nights.

We're of course going to the Disneyworld parks - since I've only been to Disneyland in California - for three days. Then, we're spending one day at the Harry Potte

r park. I am beyond excited! I knew I had to share this with you guys since you'd appreciate this news more than anyone else I know in real life. Haha.

I know some of you have been there before, so I guess I wanted to ask you guys, 'What'd you think?' Did you like your visit, are there any particular activities you did that you think we should do? Let me know, please!

In other news, people have been starting to ask me about Book Expo America 2012. Unfortunately, I don't think I'll be going. I had to choose between BEA and the Florida trip, and obviously, I happily chose the latter. If you are going though, let me know as well.

Lastly, I wanted to mention I am currently reading Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs. I'm really liking its style so far. We'll see.

Anyway, what are you guys reading, and what have you all been up to? Sorry I've been so MIA. Hope you're having a great weekend.

Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins

Rating: 2.5 stars

Review: This is a cute story. It's perfectly readable, is fast-paced, and is entertaining. However, this book screams cliche for me, sadly. Stereotypical characters, cliche dialogues, overly contrived scenarios... unfortunately. As a whole, this book just didn't seem believable to me. I get it's a fictional story, but I believe good fiction should deliver a realistic-enough story that readers would really believe it can be their own version of reality. This is just my opinion though.

That being said, Lola and the Boy Next Door was a light, fun read. Entertaining enough. I didn't hate it. It just did not 'speak' to me. It didn't have the same charm Anna and the French Kiss had. In fact, I found it a bit corny, and not exactly in a good way. I also found the main protagonist, Lola, somewhat annoying and somewhat pretentious. The male lead was not 'lovable' either, and I didn't particularly find anyone else likable as well.

I would still recommend this, mostly to fans of Anna and the French Kiss. For me, though it was light-hearted and fun, I was disappointed.

two reviews in one.

I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore

Rating: 3.5 stars

This review will be simple and straight-forward. I enjoyed this book. It was entertaining, and I really liked the premise. I found the whole 'Lorien Legacies' backstory very intriguing, and while it's not necessarily a favorite of mine, I definitely recommend it if you like SciFi/Fantasy-ish/YA genre. I am looking forward to reading the sequel for this to find out what happens next! Should be interesting.

Legend by Marie Lu

Rating: 4 stars

I can't help it. I'm a sucker for the dystopian sub-genre. There's something incredibly exciting about getting to know different imagined versions of our world in the future. I wanted to read Legend the moment I heard of its synopsis. Fortunately, it did not disappoint in terms of delivering an engaging post-apocalyptic story. It had a really 'dark' feeling to it - which I liked - and it eminded me a lot of The Hunger Games, style-wise.

While there's some strong protagonists here, I have to admit I didn't truly feel for them or anything, almost like I wasn't given enough time to fully get to know them and fall in love with them as characters. So because of that, I felt like I wasn't completely immersed in the story.

Other than that though, I enjoyed this book. Give it a try if you like dystopian fiction.

Fandom Survey: Harry Potter edition

Name any fandom you know and then answer the questions below.

1. The first character I fell in love with - Ron Weasley. When he was first introduced on the Hogwarts Express, he really did stand out to me! He was funny, hilarious, and very memorable.

2. Character I never expected to love as much as I do now - Severus Snape. I guess when the series started, he was just this mean professor. We didn't know much about him. He had no depth yet. By the end of the series though, he has become one of my favorite characters.

3. Character that everyone loves but I don't - Hagrid! I find him useless and annoying for some reason.

4. Character I love that everyone hates - I can't think of anyone in particular for this one.

5. Character I used to love but don't anymore - Ginny. To be honest, I think this is because of the films and the actress that plays her. The image of the 'strong, wise, gorgeous Ginny' from the books didn't come to life for me, and so I feel like my view on the character just got tainted from that.

6. Character I'd totally smooch (LOL!) - Cedric Diggory. (when he was alive, of course haha)

7. Character I'd want to be like - Hermione.

8. Character I'd like to slap - Cho Chang!!! Forever and always.

9. A pairing that I love - Ron and Hermione, and Snape and Lily

10. A pairing that I despise - Cho Chang and Harry Potter.

I tag everyone to do this. Choose whatever fandom you want. It could be from a book or a movie or whatever you'd like. Enjoy! Happy friday!

who's your Valentine??

book-wise that is.

What are you currently reading?

Because it's Valentine's Day, I am re-reading Jane Eyre.

Just because I love it that much.

Happy Valentine's day!

Happy Tuesday!

Tweettweettweet.

<3

your favorite love stories.

Back when I came up with the original meme, Top Ten Picks, I used to do various topics from favorite literary characters to favorite settings. At one point I made a list of my favorite love stories of all time. Since February 14th is tomorrow already, I figured I would share that list with all of you. In no particular order, here are my top ten favorite love stories.

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.

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.

6. Allie and Noah
The Notebook - movie (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. 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.

8. 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.

9. Seth Cohen and Summer Roberts
THE O.C.

10. Ron and Hermione.

Let me know which love stories you love too! Have a great week!

Bookish Gifts.

It's Valentine's Day next week, and while I am not entirely into the holiday, I still find that it can be cute and fun. Here are some bookish gifts worth looking at and possibly even purchasing for a loved one or yourself.

buy here

here

here

here

Of course, these bookish items aren't JUST for Valentine's Day.

Buy it now, buy it some other time. Either way, anybody who is bookish would be able to appreciate these and the thoughts that come with them.