Category: Book Tags

Ten Books I Would Buy This Second If Someone Handed Me A Fully Loaded Gift Card

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Helllllllo readers, it’s Tuesday and despite me saying I wasn’t going to do a hella load of book tags I think this is one I might not be able to give up. I just love the topics that The Broke and The Bookish Gals come up with. I’m thinking of using Tuesday’s for my book tag for the week and then using Friday for a bookish post but I haven’t quite decided yet! Just for now, here are Ten Top Books I would buy right now if a lovely person gave me a fully stocked gift card! #WIIIIINNN.

GODDDD I LOVE ME A THRILLER! I’ve tried so hard in the last few months to find books that are TRULY like Gone Girl and The Girl on the Train but I find that so many are just cheap replicas. Thriller’s are having a moment and I hope this one might just be the next one that makes it into my top ten books.

I don’t really want to go into everything that’s been happening to me the last few months. Too much trauma, too much drama, but I thought that this little book might just give me a little bit of a boost? I’ve been looking for books that will help but aren’t self-righteous and that will help support – this one seems like a go-to.

I haven’t read this book in YEARS, but I would really, really, really like to add a copy to my collection. I have always found the story utterly fascinating and would love to read it again, all snuggled up in bed with a cup of butterscotch hot chocolate #bbz.

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Many of you will know I’m not a big fan of books written by celebrity personalities. It’s not that I’m snobbish but I THERE ARE SO MANY BOOKS BETTER THAN GIRL ONLINE GODDAMN IT. I’ve seen quite a few negative reviews of this book, which kinda never happens with books written by an online personality so I’m tempted to give this a go.

I might have to buy a different copy of this book with a different front cover because clowns utterly terrify me but, I think this book looks FANTASTIC.

“GROW UP is the ultimate twenty-first-century coming-of-age novel. It paints a vivid portrait of the pills and thrills and bellyaches of growing up today. Funny, smart and twisted, it is the story of one young man transformed.”

I’ve started to realise there’s a theme here – I promise I’m not crazy just I think my brain is drawn the to less normal at the moment. I’m tired of ready airy fairy books, I want something punchy, something that tests me, something that is DIFFERENT. This looks perfect for that.

I mean who doesn’t want to read more from William Boyd? I mean if you haven’t what the bloody hell are you waiting for.

One of the big things I want to do with my blog is to read books that are really BIG NOW. I’ve always been one to shy away and wait until everyone and their dog has read a certain book. Now I want to throw myself into reading the newest and get my thoughts in, not a year later. This book is currently EVERYWHERE, and I want it.

I mean who doesn’t want to read more from Sebastian Faulks? I mean if you haven’t what the bloody hell are you waiting for.

WAIT DID I SAY THAT ALREADY? 

Virginia, 1966. The motionless deeps of the lake outside Stillwater College are being ruffled. Lee, a blue-blooded poet and professor, is determinedly fondling Peggy, an ingénue freshman with literary pretensions, in his canoe. So begins a long affair but the two are mismatched from the start.

The story that follows rocks the boat in every sense. Nell Zink’s hugely entertaining, totally unique Mislaid explodes the nuclear family and topples every foundation of identity – black and white, gay and straight, “normal” and very very strange…

^ I mean come on, come on. 

SO, do you want to read any of these books? Would they make it on your top ten books you need in your life. Let me know and I’ll see tomorrow for a new book review. Love you long time bookish baubles.

THE COFFEE BOOK TAG!

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-POP (1)

It’s Fridaaaaay again – holla up, and I’ve got another book tag for you. Unfortunately I’ve got conjunctivitis so I’m trying to write this with a layer of Optrex in my right eye *just because it doesn’t seem to be healing so well. I can’t remember for the life of me where I found this but it’s been sad in my drafts for little over a month so I thought it was time to get it all written up – ENJOY!

BLACK: A SERIES THAT’S TOUGH TO GET INTO BUT HAS HARDCORE FANS

The Hobbit and The Lord of the RingsPaperback by J.R.R Tolkien

This is a reaaaaaally controversial choice but I have really struggled with these series. I’ve tried numerous times over the past few years to really get into this but every time I have failed miserably – sadly.

PEPPERMINT MOCHA: A BOOK THAT GETS MORE POPULAR DURING THE WINTER OR A FESTIVE TIME OF YEAR

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

I think maybe because these films are allllll over the channels over the festive period but whenever the Christmas period rolls around I always feel the urge to wrap myself back in the warm blanket that is Harry Potter.

HOT CHOCOLATE: A FAVORITE CHILDREN’S BOOK

Judy Moody Predicts the Future by Megan McDonald

I don’t reallly know what my favourite book was as a child (because I could never pick between Roald Dahl books) but these series of books were definitely up there. I adored Judy Moody and the trials and tribulations she went through – brilliant books with beautiful covers.

DOUBLE SHOT OF ESPRESSO: A BOOK THAT KEPT YOU ON THE EDGE OF YOUR SEAT FROM START TO FINISH

Snow White Must Die by Nele Neuhaus

I read this really recently and reviewed it here – you can see why I adored this book so much, but basically this had it all, a crime with multiple red-herrings, potential murderers, and multiple plot-lines. It’s fantastic!

STARBUCKS: A BOOK YOU SEE EVERYWHERE

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

Stilllllll haven’t read this. *slaps wrist*

THE HIPSTER COFFEE SHOP: A BOOK BY AN INDIE AUTHOR (A SHOUT OUT)

Reinheit book cover for web

REINHEIT by THOMAS S FLOWERS

This is a book that I adored and kinda of want to re-write because I feel, at least, that I’m so much better at writing reviews now, compared to the reviews I used to write a couple of years back. This book was absolutely stunning just like everything this author writes – go and check him out pleassse.

OOPS! I ACCIDENTALLY GOT DECAF: A BOOK YOU WERE EXPECTING MORE FROM

The Woman who Went to Bed for a Year by Sue Townsend

This was supposed to be a laugh out loud sarcastic, hilarious book but it ended up being very calloused and cold. Not a book I should have hyped up and up for it to then come crashing down on me.

THE PERFECT BLEND: NAME A BOOK OR SERIES THAT WAS BOTH BITTER AND SWEET, BUT ULTIMATELY SATISFYING.


The End of Your Life Book Club by Will Schwalbe

Oh my, this book – SERIOUSLY. It’s bitter and sweet because it’s a beautifully lyrical, stunningly written book but the actually focus of the book is utterly devastating. STUNNING book, seriously stunning.

GREEN TEA: NAME A BOOK OR SERIES THAT IS QUIETLY BEAUTIFUL.

Phoning Home: Essays by Jacob M. Appel

Any book by Jacob Appel is stunning – full of quirky, simple, stunning writing his books are honestly beautiful.

CHAI TEA: NAME A BOOK OR SERIES THAT MAKES YOU DREAM OF FAR OFF PLACES.

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (The Chronicles of Narnia) by C. S. Lewis

I really desperately want to re-read this. It’s so beautiful and so utterly entrancing. It’s been way to long since I read this stunning far away, fantasy book.

EARL GREY: NAME YOUR FAVOURITE CLASSIC.

Down and Out in Paris and London by George Orwell

SOOOOOO much better than 1984, so much better. I adored this book and I feel that it really shows off the beauty of Orwell.

 So there we go – I tag everyone that adores Friday’s andddd have a great lovely readers.

The Book Blogger Memory Tag

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If it ain't broke don't fix it.

Helllllllllo readers, it’s FRIYAY and I have another exciting book tag for you! Next week I’m planning a post on where I want to see my blog go next – so if you have any suggestions or things you want to see, let me know and I vow to add them to my list for next FRIYAAAAY. For now, onto the tag.

So the idea for this tag is to answer ten questions. I’ve just written them below rather than using the image that everyone has because – I want to make a pretty image tag. Anyhoo without further delay, the tag. The rules: answer the questions without searching the Internet or looking at your bookshelves and tag five bloggers.

Name a book written by an author called Michael.

So for answer one without googling or anything like that I’m going with Kensuke’s Kingdom. I ADORE this book and it’s definitely one that I think really kick-started my reading during school. If you haven’t read this do, because it’s beautiful.

NAME A BOOK With a dragon on the cover

This might be a bit of an obvious choice? But I’m not a big fantasy fan or huge dragon fan to be honest with you, so this will have to do.

NAME A BOOK about a character called George

I’m going to go with this one because oh my life, George is so cute! I think I’ve read a couple of these books in my time over the years, but another second choice would have been George’s Marvellous Medicine.

NAME A BOOK written by an author with the surname smith

This author just popped into my head but I don’t think I’ve read anything by the author. Not quite sure how that happened – I recon it must be an author my Dad has mentioned maybe?

NAME A BOOK set in australia

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO, I don’t know one. This is terrible.

NAME A BOOK with the name of a month in the title

I reallllly want to go and read this now – I’ve read this twice and it’s just fantastic. A really interesting book that looks at the relationships of people and how daily lives are affected by a terrifying event.

NAME A book with the word ‘one’ in the title

Maybe an obvious choice; but READ THE BOOK – don’t just judge it by the film because the film is much, much better! Trust me, I’m a reader.  *Raises eyebrow.*

NAME A BOOK WITH an EPONYMOUS title

I think this is an eponymous title? I did have to google it but I did get it right – as in, what I thought it was, it was. I haven’t read this but I would like to.

On another note, that cover – say whaaaa. Looks creepy but kinda awesome?

NAME A BOOK WITH A book turned into a movie

I haven’t read this yet but I’ve seen the film and it was EPIC. I’m planning to read the books but haven’t quite got round to it yet. IF anyone has read it and think it’s worth the read let me know cause I’ve done that silly thing of seeing the film first!

So, I failed on one question – PLEASE LET ME KNOW HOW SILLY I’VE BEEN IN THE COMMENTS. Have an utterly fantastic Friday and if you’ve had a fantastic day please complete the tag and let me know your answers. BYEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE.

 

 

The Spring Book Tag

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The Gif Book Tag (1)

Hellllllo,  so it’s SPRING and that meant, the Spring Tag seemed like a pretty good idea. I found this tag whilst I was trawling  the blog, The Reader and  The Chef  and it seemed the perfect tag for today, so without further delay, the tag.
1. What’s your Spring TBR?

This book is definitely sat waiting to be read this Spring – if someone fancies buying it for me, that would be great. Thanks m8s.

2. If someone asked you for a Spring release recommendation, what book would it be?

I think maybe  The Pier Falls by Mark Haddon (ie author of  The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time) Apparently;

It might not come as a surprise that his new book is a departure: a collection of short stories. An expedition to Mars goes wrong, a seaside pier collapses, a woman is marooned on an island, two boys find a gun in a shoebox. The stories are billed as “searingly imaginative and emotionally taut.” (Claire) 

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3. Which two books are you eagerly awaiting that releases within the next two months?

Imagine me Gone by Adam Haslett. 

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Haslett returns to the territory of mental illness, in his third book; Margaret marries John, after learning of his serious struggle with depression, and later their eldest son, Michael, battles with despair as well. Described as Luminous with love I can’t wait to read this.
Rich and Pretty by Rumaan Alam
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Sarah is the rich one and Lauren is the pretty one. They first met 20 years ago at a tony private school in Manhattan and became inseparable through high school, college, first jobs, and first loves. But now, all grown up and living very different New York lives, they have to navigate the tricky ways that the closest of friendships evolve, erode, and endure. – Sounds amazing.

4. Which character would make a great Easter bunny?

Hmmmm, Tom Thorne from the Mark Billingham novels – he would HATE it and it would be AMAZING.

5. What book makes you think of Spring?

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett always reminds me of Spring. I love this book so much, and everyone should read it!

6. Name a cover with flowers on it.
You Are Not Here by Samantha Schutz – this book just looks beautiful and I would love to read it thisssss this Spring! One to look up and immediately add to your TBR.

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7. Which two characters would you want to go on an Easter egg hunt with?

Hmmmmm, Mildred Hubble from The Worst Witch annnnnd Hiccup from the How to Train Your Dragon.

8. What is your favorite bookish spring activity to do?
Reading in the sunshine!

9. Which book did you enjoy that had a Springish cover?

I don’t know why, this book just reminds me of Spring and I goddamn love it.

10. What is your favorite contemporary author?

Oh, you know better than to ask that.

Sooooo there we go, The Spring Book Tag is COMPLETED. I now tag anyone that likes Malteasers? (or who just want to the tag!) Have a wonderful Friyaaaay all!

THE EPIC READS TAG

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“She turned to the sunlight And shook her yellow head,And whispered to her neighbor- -Winter is dead.” (1)

 

Hellllllo reaDERS,

Hope you’re well on this lovely Friday – it’s been a crazy couple of months for me, and I’ve been super excited about lots of things; yes there are ups and downs, but for some strange reason I think 2016/2017 might be the year/s I sort my life out – maybe. By sort out, I mean just feel more confident and happy and just get my life moving in the right direction and maybe play less sims? Just a thought – anyway without more rambling; THE TAG.

Also I found this on Spines and Covers – GREAT BLOG; GO CHECK OUT.

QUESTION 1

If you could invite one author and one of their fictional characters to lunch, who would you invite and what would you serve them?

I think I would invite Caitlin Moran and Johanna Morrigan; I would love to have learnt more about her. As a recent reader of Moran everything I’ve read by her, whether a book or an article, I’ve not only connected with, but wanted to learn more about. Chatting about feminism and all that jazz would be pretty awesome.

We would have double bacon cheeseburgers and mac n’ cheese. Yes please.

QUESTION 2

What book do you wish the author would write a prequel for?

I think maybe ‘The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald; we get to hear so much about the life of Gatsby but I think it would so goddamn cool to really get to know Jay and all the mischief he got into!

QUESTION 3

Which two characters (not from the same book) would make a good couple?

I think Cath from “Fangirl” by Rainbow Rowell and also  Neville Longbottom from Harry Potter; may be a little odd because my OTP is Neville and Luna? But I think these two could work.

QUESTION 4

If you ran into your favorite author on the subway and only could say one sentence to them, who is it and what would it be?

Not my favorite author (because I don’t have one) but I think I would just thank Dorothy Koomson for her book The Chocolate Run; that book is just, perfection and it’s pulled me out of some many reading slumps over the years. It’s been a real life saver and one I can’t imagine never reading.

QUESTION 5

What book made you a reader and why?

Lots and lots of books have made me a reader; I think as a child I really loved, the younger reader versions, such as Dracula and Treasure Island, from this I think I really developed and started reading more books?

I think two books that stick in my mind are; Georgia Byng’s Molly Moons incredible book of hypnotism and the Judy Moody books by Megan McDonald – these two really made me interested in books and reading more and more at an age where I think, I could have lost interest.

 

QUESTION 6

Incendio!
Your bookshelf just caught fire. Show the book you’d save.

I think the book I would save is T’s copy of 1Q84? I’ve had it a little while now, cause I still haven’t finished it but when I said to T I thought I had lost it, he had a little meltdown so I’ll pick that. To be a nice human.

QUESTION 7

Which dystopian world would you want to live in if you had to choose one? Why

I think I like the idea of living in one of the districts in the Hunger Games; for some reason it really appeals but I’m not quite sure why.

QUESTION 8

What is your most epic read of all time?

Naaaaaaah, I couldn’t pick one! I do have six books I think  I recommend to all people to read because they are my favourites and they’ve been in my top ten over and over again. They’re all books that always put a smile on my face and that I just really enjoy reading.

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So there we go! Really enjoyed this tag and got to mention a lot of books I haven’t mentioned as much before maybe? Book tags always seem to move towards favourite books so if any one fancy tagging me in something completely different – let me know.

Today I tag everyone with a T in their last name (or anyone who wants to complete the tag.) AS always I love reading your answers so if you do complete do link back and let me know!

 

 

 

YA FRENZY TAG!

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“She turned to the sunlight And shook her yellow head,And whispered to her neighbor- -Winter is dead.”.jpg

Helllllo readers,

It’s Friday and that means FRIYAY for me – I lave me some Friday’s . Anyway I love reading tags and this week I had the lovely surprise of being tagged in the YA Frenzy Tag created by Icebreaker 694. I was tagged by the brilliant Jemima at ‘The Bookaholic’ who’s blog you should really follow because it’s full of lovely, informative and bookish posts (I’ve left a link above^) – for now, onto the tag!

Here are the rules:

Respond to this new tag in comments (so I know if you can participate).

Read through my Q&A.

Answer the questions I’ve answered in this post

Choose at least 3 to 5 other bloggers to participate!

So, to begin;

1. What book got you started on the path of YA?

I think really the books by K.E Coles; when I read these books I didn’t really know a lot about YA books and I think they were quite badly marketed. I always thought they were for young people despite enjoying them. When I was blogging beginner I always thought I needed to read more intelligently – now I realise that’s bull**** and instead read and review what you want.

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2. List 3 awesome book related gifs, add your own captions.

When characters fall in love after TWO GODDAMN MINUTES.

When someone recommends a book to you that you already know and love.

When someone asks what I’m up to this evening – #wellduh.

3. What was the latest series you finished?

I don’t read a lot of series – I don’t read a lot of any series books from any genre really so it would probably have to be the ones above or Harry Potter. I much prefer standalone books to be honest with you.

4. What is one thing that you hate in YA? What is one thing you love?

I don’t want to copy the answers from Jemima but I definitely think waspish or easily influenced females are often something I struggle with in terms of YA Books. I think when they can stand on their own and can inspire readers, especially female readers that is just brilliant and you often need stronger characters for that.

I love that YA books bring together readers from all walks of life, all ages, all different personalities and are being used to spread important issues. I think YA books are often the bravest is expressing views on sexuality, gender, mental- health, relationships, family struggles and I love that they can be read by all.

5. Take this Buzzfeed quiz and post your results. The quiz is “Are You Able to Identify the Real YA Cover From the Fake?”

 Are You Able To Identify The Real YA Cover From The Fake?
You got 8 out of 10 right!
You did better than 60% of those who took this quiz!

  1. Golden Bookworm

    You’re a gold-standard bookworm! You can definitely identify your YA covers like a BOSS. Never stop getting your read on.

There we gooooo, all finished for this tag!

I always seem to get more links back so I can see all your wonderful answers when I tag random reasons for people reading the tag; so today I’m going to tag people that love Malteasers (or of course anyone that fancies the tag!) Please let me know if you complete – I LOVE READING THE ANSWERS YOU ALL GIVE. Till next time have a fantastic weekend!

THE BOOK BLOGGER TEST

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book blogger test

Hellllllllllllllllo readers, IT’S FRIDAAAAAY, and I’m actually writing this on a Friday which is pretty ideal. I’m currently really enjoying writing book tags again and I found this pretty brilliant on Brins Book Blog which is a blog I kind of recently discovered but it’s  really worth a little look because it’s a fantastic blog – so off you go see. Once you’ve read this – obviously (wink face.) Enjoy!

what are your top three book pet hates?

1. When romance books have reaaaaally risque covers and you can’t read them on public transport without an old lady or a man giving you the eyebrow.

2. Characters falling in love at first sight or within the first chapter – seriously. Lust, yes, attraction, yes, true love – HELL NO. The reader wants to experience the build-up of the relationship, why do so many authors seem to struggle with this.

3. Novella’s that are really too short; I love novella’s but recently lots that I’ve read have been basically the shortest stories ever. #sadface.

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describe your perfect reading spot

I’m definitely an in bed reader – I change into my pyjamas as soon as I get home from work. So pjs,  comfy blanket, hot chocolate (or Pepsi Max) and Eeyore would be there too! Oooo and maybe some Minstrels as they are my favourites at the moment.

tell us three book confessions

1. I  STILL haven’t read anything by Virginia Woolf even though I have paperbacks and Ebooks of a number of her books. I just haven’t got round to it yet.

2. I am a massive fan of a really trashy romance every so often. I talk about my love of Bukowski, the Bronte sisters, classic literature, but some days give me the worst of the trashy romances and I’ll be a happy bunny.

3.  My DNF reading list is a lot longer than people think it is. I can normally review a book based on the half mark stage but if I’m really struggling I will stop reading and review despite that – I just don’t always tell everyone.

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when was the last time you cried during a book?

I’m currently reading ‘The End of Your Life Book Club
by Will Schwalbe’ and oh my  have I been close to crying many, many times. It’s one of those books that I am not ready to get to the end of because it’s just so damn good. The review for that book is going to be hella difficult.

how many books are on your bedside table?

Currently! ZEEERRRROOO. I have two sets of flowers there instead one from T and one from me to me.

what is your favourite snack to eat while you’re reading?

PRINGLES AND MINSTRELS. I am alllll for reading snacks although I know lots of people tend to avoid snacking when reading.

name three books you would recommend to everyone

This is soooooo hard, but I’m going to go with:

The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak

Anything by Bukowski

1Q84 by Haruki Murakamii

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show us a picture of your favourite bookshelf on your bookcase

No shelves! Just a book-suitcase *it’s so prettttty.*

write how much books mean to you in just three words

Maybe, just everything?

what is your biggest reading secret?

I love Harry Potter as a series, but I’m actually not a massive fan of Harry Potter as a character. He’s always getting Ron and Hermione into trouble and then when they solve the problem Harry takes the credit – not cool maaaaan.

So we’re at the end of the taaag, and I’m going to tag anyone with an L in their first name! (Or ya know if you fancy doing the tag!) Remember to comment or let me know on twittttter @littlebookblog1! HAPPY FRIDAY Y’ALLLL.

The Dim Sum Book Tag

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dim-sum-book-tag

Hello humans and robots. I have potentially the oddest book tag today for you – I mean I love Dim Sum but the Dim Sum book tag? But I am so excited to fill this out and nominate some wonderful bloggers.

On that note I would like to say thank you to Floriane at Flowless Books for nominating me – she has a wonderful blog which I’ve recently been reading the posts of and I think you should too. So, what are the rules you ask?

 

Here are some rules to devour this tag:

  1. Thank the blogger who nominated you, linking back to their site
  2. Devour dim sum and answer the tag questions
  3. Tag five others to join your round table for some dim sum fun
  4. Food coma

 

TEA : A BOOK THAT STARTED OFF HOT BUT TURNED COLD QUICKLY

Hmmm, I’m going to go with Transmission by Hari Kunzru. It started reaaaaly well but the ending was just a little rushed – it felt almost as though the author got a little bored and decided to wrap it up which didn’t quite work.

CHIU CHOW DUMPLING: A BOOK THAT FEATURES ELEMENTS OF LAND AND SEA

Maybe an odd choice but recently I’ve been sorting out my book suitcase and I found this beauty which I had completely forgotten about. However it fits rather perfectly for a book that features elements of the land and the sea.

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RICE NOODLE ROLL: A FAVOURITE MULTI-LAYERED CHARACTER OF YOURS (EG. TRAITS? SKILLS? MORALLY AMBIGUOUS?)

I’m currently reading Will Schwaller’s The End of Your Life Book Club and I think both the main characters – Will and his mother Mary Anne have so many traits and feelings that are constantly interwoven throughout the tale. It’s a beautiful relationship and both characters are mesmerising.

SHRIMP DUMPLING: A BOOK WITH A TRANSPARENT BLURB THAT GIVES THE STORY AWAY

I recently read ‘Once Gone, by Blake Pierce’ and although I really, really enjoyed it I thought the blurb just gave too much away. Although the book did bring in themes it was a little told out in the blurb – so much that in my review there was very little to explain to the reader that hadn’t already been said.

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STEAMED BBQ PORK BUNS: A BOOK THAT IS FLUFFY ON THE OUTSIDE BUT PACKS A PUNCH OF FLAVOUR (EG. MESSAGE? DEPTH? CONTROVERSY?)

When I saw this book alllllll over the bookish-blogosphere I thought it was a really sweet tale but, it’s really thoughtful and definitely made me think. Also if you’re ever bored just search this on Goodreads and lose a couple of hours reading the comments (totally worth it.)

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CHICKEN FEET: A BOOK WITH DIVIDED OPINIONS

I’ve picked this because I recently reviewed this and me and T for the first time in quite a while disagreed with each other on how good this was. I adored it and he just thought it was a bit meh.

LOTUS-WRAPPED STICKY RICE: A BOOK YOU’VE RECEIVED/GIVEN THAT WAS NICELY PACKAGED

Although I receive a lot of books to review most of them are E-books so I don’t reaaaaaly receive nicely packaged things. This book however came with lots of lovely little things including stickers, a feather and some quotes which were all packaged up with the book – t’was really lovely.

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EGG CUSTARD TART: A BOOK THAT USES SIMPLE INGREDIENTS AND CLICHES BUT EXECUTES IT PERFECTLY

I’m going to go with Dispatches from the Dating Zone by K T Valentine. It’s a little like your normal stereotypical romance but it’s just a really good one where you kind of know what’s going to happen but you’re not angry about it.

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MANGO PUDDING WITH EVAPORATED MILK: ANY BOOK RECOMMENDATION + BEVERAGE/SNACK THAT’S A WINNING COMBINATION

Murakami is just beautiful – and the perfect combination for that is a aero hot chocolate and some minstrels for a double chocolate whammy.

FRIED SESAME BALLS: A BOOK COVER WITH EMBOSSED TEXT/DESIGN YOU JUST LOVE TO RUN YOUR FINGERS OVER

You can’t tell from this image but the cover of this is embossed and a velvet material too and it is just GORGEOUS. T and I have discussed having a special book shelf for our most prized books and this one will definitely be on there.

DIM SUM STEAM CART: THE TYPE OF CARRYING BAG YOU USE TO BRING BOOKS AROUND

I tend to carry my books in whatever bag I’m using at the time I don’t really have a designated book bag but I do have a Penguin Books bag which I adore, so imma going to go with that.

aaaaaaand that concludes the end of the tag. I now tag anyone that wants to complete the tag because I recently wrote an award post and used allllll my favourite blogs for that. If you do complete it though, please link back so I can see all your wonderful answers.

The Fifty Bookish Questions Book Tag

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Twenty-five things us bookworms are super awesome at (2)

Helllllo readers, it’s Friday which means it’s time for another book tag *cheers.* I found this really lovely tag on the fantastic blog that is Life of a Female Bibliophile. It’s a lot of questions so I’m going to keep this short and simple! My review requests box should be back open as of this week so if you do want your book read and reviewed by me whack me over an email. I’ve come up with a new booking in service so fingers crossed can keep it all super nice  and tidy. Without delay – onto those fifty bookish questions 

1. What was the last book you read?

The Hollow by Arielle Leclair, see my review from yesterday!

2. Was it a good one?

Yes, although a fantasy it was an exciting read with some good plot-twists and strong characters.

3. What made it good?

Well done Lizzo answered that in the last question – good tale, good characters, good writing style.

4. Would you recommend it to other people?

Yes, especially if you like fantasy books!

5. How often do you read?

If I’m not in a reading slump then most days – especially if I’m on a train/bus/in the bath.

6. Do you like to read?

Quite obviously.

7.What was the last bad book you read?

Bad book? Maybe Transmission by Hari Kunzru. Overall the book was really brilliant but the ending just didn’t work for me.

8. What made you dislike it?

Once again not reading the questions beforehand – the ending just lacked clarity and strength. It made me feel a little grumpy when I made it to the end.

9. Do you wish to be a writer?

Yes and no. I think I would love to be a writer but then I’ve tried a number of times and I’m 99.7% sure I’m not that great at it.

10. Has any book every influenced you greatly?

Lots of books have definitely influenced me – I couldn’t name them all here, but yes is the answer.

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11. Do you read fan fiction?

I don’t no – I’m not saying I never will but it’s yet to appeal really.

12. Do you write fan fiction?

Nopppppe.

13. What’s your favorite book?

I can never answer this question because I haven’t read all the books yet! There a few that are close to my heart including The Book Thief, The Harry Potter series, 1Q84, The Chocolate Run, and Remember to Breathe by Simon Pont.

14. What’s your least favorite book?

I think Great Expectations by Charles Dickens – just didn’t click with me!

15. Do you prefer physical books or ready on a device (like a kindle)?

I do love my Kindle but physical books are much better for me.

16. When did you learn to read?

I think maybe 4/5. I just kind of started reading, I didn’t really learn letters or sounds I just kind of started talking and then reading.

17. What is your favorite book you had to read in school?

I hated the book at the time but The Great Gatsby is now one of my favourite books. I unfortunately never got the chance to read Of Mice and Men during education, but I finally got round to it this year and really enjoyed reading it.

18. What is your favorite book series?

I think maybe Harry Potter – I don’t read a lot of book series because a lot of them fall into the fantasy genre which I struggle with but HP was wonderful and still is.

19. Who is your favorite author?

Nope. Just nope.

20. What is your favorite genre?

It always used to be historical fiction but this year I have read a lot more YA and crime/thrillers so I’ll go with a mash up of all three. (Although cannot lie I do love a trashy romance every once in a while!)

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21. Who is your favorite character in a book series?

I really really like Aoname from 1Q84 – she’s potentially the complete opposite of me but there’s something about her quiet, still nature that I really love reading about. Other than that maybe just pipping her to the post is Lisbeth Salander (might be the name of my first child – might.)

22. Has a book ever transported you somewhere else?

Yes, that’s what books are supposed to do I think anyway.

23.Which book do you wish had a sequel?

Remember to Breath by Simon Pont – it was a book that got me through I really difficult time in my life and I’d love to get that feeling again. It really is a brilliant book and the perfect sarcastic witty mix. Perfect reading.

24. Which book do you wish DIDNT have a sequel?

I honestly can’t think of one but then again I don’t read a lot of series of books.

25. How long does it take you to read a book?

Depends how busy I am and how much I’m enjoying the book. I also have a terrible habit of starting a book, and then starting another. I’ll finish book two and start another, (book three) and I’ll completely forget about the first book. This is namely why after six or so months I still haven’t finished 1Q84.

26. Do you like when books become movies?

It really depends on the book I think – there are some that I have really loved and some that haven’t really worked. I love the Harry Potter films and although they do miss bits out of the books I think they’re pretty spot on. I still refuse to see The Book Thief – I’m terrified it will spoil the book for me.

27. Which book was ruined by its movie adaptation?

I think perhaps One Day – I think I read the book before the film just so I could see the film (sometimes I can be a bit of a book snob!) The film was just okay – the book however was utterly fantastic.

28. Which movie has done a book justice?

I’m going to say PS I love you. I really really adore the book and I nearly prefer the film. It is such a brilliant adaptation and so wonderfully done. I’m a big fan and I still can’t make it through without crying!

29. Do you read newspapers?

Every so often – I do read the Guardian online if that counts.

30: Do you read magazines?

Not anymore – I used to regularly read Look but it’s been a while since I picked up a copy!

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31. Do you prefer newspapers or magazines?

It depends what I’m reading them for. If it’s for political articles or the like I’m unlikely to pick up Cosmopolitan or if I’m looking for a way to treat dry hair The Times isn’t really going to help me!

32. Do you read while in bed?

Yes. All. The. Time.

33. Do you read while on the toilet?

I don’t actually – my Dad though, he’s a sod for it and if you need to get in there for any reason don’t hold your hopes up it could be while. (Probably TMI soz.)

34. Do you read while in the car?

Yes, although I have to be careful because I suffer with car sickness which really isn’t pretty.

35. Do you read while in the bath?

Yes, although not very often. I’m not a big ‘bath person,’ and although this may sound a little odd often get in after Mumma B or Char has had a bath because I don’t like it too hot and I don’t stay in the bath for very long so yes, but not for lots of reading – and I do often drop the books in or get my wet fingers all over the pages. (Sad face.)

36. Are you a fast reader?

Yes.

37. Are you a slow reader?

Erm no. ^

38. Where is your favorite place to read?

Oddly it’s on trains. I know this obviously doesn’t happen too often but I do like reading on trains the best. There’s something really relaxing about it for me and I find myself getting more in tune with my reading.

39. Is it hard for you to concentrate while you read?

Sometimes – recently I’ve had a couple of month long reading slumps which has been really horrible and it’s been impossible but if my phone is on airplane mode and I’m comfy in bed or in the bath and there’s no music on I’m normally pretty fine.

40.Do you need a room to be silent while you read?

Yes, I never used to, but now music does really distract me.

Twenty-five things us bookworms are super awesome at (6)

41. Who gave you your love for reading?

Even from a very young age I was taken to the library, read to and I loved to tell stories. When I was at nursery I had to be bribed to go outside – I would much rather have stayed in reading.

42. What book is next on your list to read?

The Silk Worm by Robert Galbraith.

43. When did you start to read chapter books?

I think maybe the age of 7. I found reading came to me very easily and was allowed to read longer books from quite a young age.

44. Who is your favorite children’s book author?

Roald Dahl and Jacqueline Wilson.

45. Which author would you most want to interview?

J.K Rowling – I have so many questions! That or Ian Probert that would be pretty cool.

46. Which author do you think you’d be friends with?

Rainbow Rowell I think or John Green!

47.What book have you reread the most?

The Chocolate Run by Dorothy Koomson.

48. Which books do you consider “classics”?

I guess books in the literary cannon although I think it’s good to add more contemporary books too.

49. Which books do you think should be taught in every school?

Books that get people READING. A mixture of contemporary and classics and books that young people will enjoy. I hated Gatsby and Enduring Love as a student and yet now, as an older reader they resonate with me – I think it needs to be more balanced.

50. Which books should be banned from all schools?

I don’t think books should be banned from schools unless they are really inappropriate. Books tell a story about the world and they help to open people’s eyes to the world. Books are wonderful things and they should be enjoyed by all.

There you go, fifty questions and a seriously long post! I’m going to leave this open to anyone who wants to complete because it is so goddamn long. Tag me if you decide to complete this monstrous tag or tweet me @littlebookblog1!

 

Library Lovers Book Tag

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The Wacky Bookish(1)

Helllllo readers,

Hope you’re well – I mean it’s Friday so hopefully the day at least has one positive. It’s time for another bookish blogger tag and today’s is about us library lovers. I adore the library, not that I’ve been going recently I’ve been so overwhelmed with ARC books I’ve had to wait a little while to have a wander around Hanley Library but I will soon.  I found this lovely tag at ‘A Book Lovers Playlist.’ run by the equally lovely Kayleigh. As always I’m going to tag anyone that feels like completing this tag – and if not, have a wonderful weekend y’all.

 1. How often do you visit you local library?
I recently-ish (three months) moved house and then it took about a month and a half to even go and re-register for another library card despite not leaving Stoke-on-Trent so it’s been a little while. I walk past the library on my way to work so when I finally make a dent in my ARC copies I’ll be back in there. When I’m on a reading buzz I normally visit every two weeks.
2. Are you the type of person who checks out more books than you know you can read or are you someone who only checks out the exact amount of books you intend on reading before they are due?

I’ve been a lot better with this recently – I tend to take out just three books to read in the two weeks and stick to that. If I don’t I seem to either lose one of the books, or end up forgetting to take them back and getting a big fine which I then could have spent on books! *wails.*

The Wacky Bookish(2)

3. How old were you when you got your first library card?

I think I maybe 4/5. I remember always going to Milton Keynes library and having to be physically pulled out by my parents. I used to love snuggling up on the beanbags on the floor and having a really good read.

4. Do you go to your library looking for a particular book or do you check out anything that peaks your interest?

Depends – when I did my classic book challenge I went in looking for certain specific books, but then I often get distracted and pick up completely different ones.

5. Do you use your library to check out just books or do you also check out dvds, audiobooks etc.?

I haven’t as of yet – just books for me currently.

The Wacky Bookish(2)

6. From what section of your library do you check out a majority of your books? ( YA, middle grade, adult, nonfiction.)

It really depends – but as with the blog it is often a completely random jumble of books. It may be YA, classics, contemporary, chick-lit. It depends what I’ve just read and what I’ve seen on social media – basically I never know.

7. What is your favorite part of using your local library?

I like reading books I wouldn’t normally read which I find on the different shelves. Some days I go specifically to pick up one book and end up picking up another which I wouldn’t have done if I was in a book shop. I just want ALLLLLL THE BOOKS.

There we go, a tag all about libraries which I think are just brilliant. Libraries are so important and to think so many are closing due to not being used is a little heartbreaking but fingers crossed the more that go the more they will be seen to be pivotal and we can strive to keep them open! If anyone fancies completing this tag – comment below or tweet me @littlebookblog1!