Invisible Lines

Invisible Lines is the newest middle-grade novel written by Mary Amato.

Trevor Musgrove has just moved to a not-so-cheerfully nicknamed apartment complex (“Deadly Gardens”) with his hard-working mother and two young siblings. His new middle-school is of a higher caliber than he’s been to, and Trevor is determined to get “in” with the popular boys, stay in an interesting class that he was somehow mistakenly placed, and make the elite “Plague” soccer team.

Thing is, unlike some of his new friends, Trevor needs to baby-sit his little brother and sister every evening while his Mom works to keep a roof over their heads. Also, unlike his new friends, Trevor can’t really afford a notebook for his new advanced science class or the cleats for soccer. He’s not sure how he can make all his dreams come true, but he’s sure gonna try.

First off, if the cover of Invisible Lines puts you off – I’m with you. (Because of technical issues, I was unable to put a cover picture on this post, but to check out the book and see what I'm talking about click here: http://www.amazon.com/Invisible-Lines-Mary-Amato/dp/160684010X/ref=pd_ecc_rvi_cart_1) It comes off even younger than middle-grade. The size of the print doesn’t really help either (large, senior-style words).

But once you start the novel, I’m pretty sure you’ll be as impressed as I was.

Invisible Lines delves into the rarely seen world (in children’s literature, especially) of next-to-utter-poverty. For Mary Amato to really show in a poignant, never overdramatic way, the life of a talented, smart boy living in the kind of apartment complex you never want to live in – dangerous, sad, and sometimes hopeless – and come out with an inspiring book that even brought tears to my eyes – Wow.

Some events that happen at Trevor’s apartment building startled me with its stark and heartbreaking reality. Things that many kids see or hear about daily, but you rarely read in books written for the age group. Mary Amato never talks down to her reader, and keeps the tone steady. I never felt that I was being taught a lesson, as much as seeing a real person’s life and the unpretentious encouragement that comes from that.

Mary Amato portrays Trevor’s mom realistically and sympathetically, but never smoothes away the flaws or edges of the authenticity of this life.

Yet, I make Invisible Lines sound far more depressing than it really is.

Invisible Lines also has lots of humor – at first the humor seemed a bit childish, but before I knew it I was enjoying it and identified the down-to-earth nature of the banter and jokes in everyday life. The characters in general, especially Trevor’s classmates and Trevor himself, came across as very grounded and recognizable to your own (at least my own) middle-school experience.

I never expected to be inspired (or find out so many, believe it or not, interesting facts about) mushrooms! But, I lie not, I’d be surprised if you don’t agree with me in saying that Invisible Lines is a powerful, sweet, and funny look at a boy who has a lot stacked against him and proves that it doesn’t have to stay that way.

Another novel that proves that the label “Ages 10 & Up” means nothing. ;)

Candle Man: The Society of Unrelenting Vigilance

The Society of Unrelenting Vigilance is the first book in a planned trilogy named Candle Man by Glenn Dakin.

The plot centers on teenage Theo who has been brought up in what would basically be described a “secluded” way. You see, he’s been told since he can remember that he has a serious and dangerous illness involving his hands, which means Theo wears special gloves. Thing is, his guardian, Mr. Saint, and his ever-present butler, Mr. Nicely (I know, awesome names, right?!) have kept Theo so cut off from the outside world, that he can’t help but thirst for knowledge of the rest of England.

So as soon as Theo has the opportunity to escape the confines of his room, he takes it. Even if he is rather frightened and unprepared for what lies ahead of him.

What he doesn’t realize until later is, his guardian might not be such a “saint”, nor his butler quite as “nice” as he always believed. And maybe he has a true ancestor; someone called reverently the “Candle Man”. And maybe there’s an evil conspiracy at works.

And maybe, just maybe, Theo is the only one who can stop it.

With a title like The Society of Unrelenting Vigilance, I already had a feeling I would like it. And guess what?

I did. :)

I liked it quite a bit actually! Right away there was a hint of A Series of Unfortunate Events in the style of writing (not quite as many vocabulary definition pauses, though, lol) and zest of characters. That’s a plus right away, in my Lemony-Snicket-lovin’ opinion.

But the plot itself was original, fun, engaging, and had just the right amount of seriousness and depth to make it more than just a fluff book (which I have nothing against – I just do appreciate some sincerity). Theo is truly a sympathetic, likeable character. Glenn Dakin manages to make him naïve without making him stupid, and sweet without being wimpy.

The whole cast of characters are flavorful and attention grabbing – and the action is actually rather thrilling! The fantasy elements and creatures were well executed – and, again, quite unique and interestingly incorporated into the plot. I think you’ll know what I mean when you read it.

I don’t want to give too much away, is pretty much what I’m saying. As always. ;)

I think the point is: There are actually twists to give away, which means you should NOT pass on The Society of Unrelenting Vigilance just because it may say “Middle Grade” or “Ages 10 and up”.

Most of us bibliophiles know better than to pay any attention to these labels – since an awesome book knows no age limits! But I was once, alas, a simple-minded bibliophile-in-training that for a time did pay attention to such things – so I warn any that are as I once was.

Candle Man: The Society of Unrelenting Vigilance is a witty, smart, entertaining fantasy novel that left me quite, ahem, “vigilantly” looking out for the next book in this trilogy. ;)

Check out the official website at: http://www.powerofthecandleman.com/

Vampire's Assistant Giveaway Results!

Thanks to everybody who entered the Vampire's Assistant contest! Two winners have been selected and sent emails. If you are one of those lucky people make sure to email me back ASAP! :)

Go see the movie, bibliophiles! With all those previews they're showing on TV, ya can't help but be intrigued, eh? ;)

Catching Fire

Please, for your own sake, don’t read this review of Catching Fire unless you have already read The Hunger Games. If you haven’t, check out my review of The Hunger Games here: http://bibliophilesupportgroup.blogspot.com/2008/09/hunger-games.html

Also, if you are looking for my contest, simply scroll down or click here: http://bibliophilesupportgroup.blogspot.com/2009/10/vampires-assistant-contest.html

Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games blew me away, as it did many. I mean, wow! I was left breathless, stunned, and in a state of suspense when it came to a close – Katniss clearly not as safe as she (and we) hoped she’d be after winning the Games with the sweet, every-girl’s-dream-guy Peeta.

The Capitol, she had found out, was not happy with her pulling one over on them. But, what she didn’t realize at the end of The Hunger Games was just how much the final seconds of the Hunger Games impacted all the other districts. Katniss’ actions roused in the citizens’ weary, tired bodies an inspiration that maybe, just maybe, the Capitol could be defeated. An idea that had only been a distant fantasy for the past many decades.

In the meantime, Katniss finds herself torn between a strong bond and confused feelings for Peeta, whom she feels she betrayed, and her loyal, Capitol-hating best friend Gale, whom she also feels she betrayed. Somehow, Suzanne Collins makes these relationships so starkly realistic and painful – not at all angsty or of a different nature than who Katniss is. In other words, she doesn't become a pile of girly-goo when it comes to good-looking, interesting guys. Um refreshing much? Yeah.

But none of Katniss’ heartache regarding Peeta and Gale can overcome the terrible, utter fear of President Snow’s seemingly omniscient knowledge of her and her family and the damage he can do. She finds herself desperate to prove to all of Panem that she was just a love-struck flake when she and Peeta (at her suggestion) took out the poison berries instead of kill each other.

But will it work? Or will things only get worse, and her loved ones be put in even more danger?

I’m not sure if my synopsis really does the basic plot justice. In fact, I'm sure it doesn't.

Catching Fire is truly a magnificent novel, capturing the exact same level of emotion, tension, and character development as the The Hunger Games. Every page and every chapter brought another surprise – I honestly did not have any idea what would happen next.

The guesses of even an experienced bibliophile like me, who has read hundreds of books, could not believe where Catching Fire went, and where it ended.

It was unbelievable, incredible, and astonishing!

Don’t get it yet? Here’s some more adjectives for you: Poignant, shocking, heart-rending, horrifying, and inspiring.

I don’t know what else to say but to READ Catching Fire! For the characters, the plot, the thrills, the tears, the romance, the shocks, and the genuinely original story!!!

Suzanne Collins, you are one hell of a writer. I’m astounded, and frantic for the final novel!!!

The Vampire’s Assistant CONTEST!!!

Have you heard about Cirque Du Freak: The Vampire’s Assistant movie coming out on October 23rd? Well, if you haven't here's your chance to learn more about it before heading to the theatres! Yep, it's your chance to WIN!!!

There will be TWO winners, to be exact!

ABOUT THE MOVIE
In theaters October 23rd
Cirque Du Freak: The Vampire’s Assistant, based on the popular series of books by Darren Shan, is a fantasy-adventure about a teenager who unknowingly breaks a 200-year-old truce between two warring factions of vampires. Pulled into a fantastic life of misunderstood sideshow freaks and grotesque creatures of the night, one teen will vanish from the safety of a boring existence and fulfill his destiny in a place drawn from nightmares.

THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE
http://vampiresassistant.net/

CIRQUE DU FREAK has been rated PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned - Some Material May Be Inappropriate for Children Under 13) for sequences of intense supernatural violence and action, disturbing images, thematic elements and some language.

Sounds pretty cool, right?!

Did you catch the part about it being based off a popular series of BOOKS? Here's where the contest part comes in. :)

How would you like to win the first three books in the series, all placed together in one tide volume? Awesome, yes?!

DETAILS ON THE BOOK RELEASE:
THE VAMPIRE'S ASSISTANT and Other Tales from the Cirque du Freak by Darren Shan

New movie edition features the first three books--Cirque Du Freak, The Vampire's Assistant, and Tunnels of Blood-- bound up in one volume!

Do you love to be scared? Then don't miss the terrifying adventure that begins when Darren and his best friend, Steve, get tickets to the CIRQUE DU FREAK, a wonderfully bizarre and creepy freak show. Brace yourself for thrills and chills as the boys witness a parade of grotesque creatures and face their deepest fears by entering the darkest world of the vampire. In the blood-curdling tradition of Anne Rice and Stephen King, CIRQUE DU FREAK will have you shrieking for the next horror show!


Well, here's your chance to win (pictured above):

Two (2) winners will receive:
Cirque du Freak book Set (3 titles in one book)
Cirque du Freak: The Vampire’s Assistant Locker Mirror

Shipping Guidelines:
The Vampire’s Assistant giveaway is open to legal US residents who are at least 13 years of age as of October 1st. Prizing is only available to United States mailing address only. (International readers can enter if they have a friend in the States who can accept their prizes by mail.)

All you have to do to WIN is comment on this blog post between October 7th to before midnight (PST) on October 28th with your email address and the answer to this question:

Who is your favorite vampire, and why?

Your favorite vampire can be from a book, TV show, or movie. If you honestly don't have one - give me any favorite character from a horror/sci-fi/fantasy book, movie, or TV show.

Pretty easy, right? :)

Also, if you wouldn't mind being so kind - please vote in my poll on the right side of the blog for your favorite Cirque du Freak T-shirt saying!!! The results will matter, and your votes may help me win my own prize! :)

I'll randomly select TWO winners after the 28th of October and notify them by email! It could be YOU!

Enter away, and spread the word!!! Thanks! ;)

The Awakening

Kelley Armstrong’s The Awakening is the sequel to the adored (speaking from my opinion) The Summoning. If you have yet to read The Summoning, please skip this review and run, don’t walk, to your local bookstore or library to read it! Need more convincing? Read my review of The Summoning here: http://bibliophilesupportgroup.blogspot.com/2008/06/summoning.html Reading my review of The Awakening will only spoil all the deliciously thrilling things that happen in The Summoning.

Now, on to The Awakening. I must admit, I have been dying to read this since the day it came out in April. Sadly, due to a series of unfortunate events, I was unable to do so until recently. But it was definitely worth the wait!!!

Last we were with Chloe, she was betrayed by her Aunt Lauren and trapped in a faux hotel room, trying to “summon” Liz, whom all signs pointed, was dead.

We pick up shortly thereafter. It’s hard to know what to say without giving anything away. You see, Kelley manages to keep the suspense from page one to page 360. To give away one tiny twist or even one perhaps quick coming moment in the book could ruin that one second of surprise in your reading experience.

Many people think “little tiny spoilers” aren’t spoilers. Especially if it happens in the first 25 pages. Me? I disagree. Particularly with sequels!

If you’re reading this review, you’ve already read The Summoning (unless you are ignoring my direct warning and have only really hurt yourself and your bibliophile ways) – you already know and love Chloe. You already know and love Derek. At least, I do. I ADORE him! Anyway, ahem, moving on... You know Chloe’s a necromancer. That there is definitely some fishy stuff going on with Lyle House. And that Darkest Powers series is AWESOME and needs no more than to be read and loved as only a true junky bibliophile can!

So, I’m sorry. I won’t give away any plot points. I can’t. It’s against my nature. I say, open the pages and read. Read, read, read!

And, if you’re like me, you won’t stop reading until you’re done. Okay, sure I had to stop reading a couple times (let’s be honest here)… but every time I brushed my teeth, went to bed, or ate my dinner, my thoughts would quite often drift over to the appealing cover and it’s tug of fantasy action/adventure. (The best genre EVER. Lol.)

What can I say? I can say that Kelley Armstrong is an awesome writer! I can say that Chloe is likeably different than other YA heroines with her mixture of confidence, niceness, and all-around normalcy. That is, apart from her ability. And the ability? It’s amazing! It sets up character growth, chills, and plenty of storylines. Derek manages to be a bad boy without being “the” bad boy. He’s complex and interesting. He’s not necessarily attractive. He’s grumpy. He’s DIFFERENT!

I could go on and on and on. But the main thing is, if you like to get a little scared (in a fun way), like slow-building romance (at least, that’s what I hope for – whether you love Simon or Derek), action, suspense, thrills, a full-fledged fantasy universe set within our own and everything in between – this is the YA book for you!

As for me, I’m breathlessly waiting for The Reckoning. Kelley, if you read this: Please stop the torture and get the book released months sooner! :)

Important Side Note: Like winning stuff? Show up on Wednesday October 7th for a brand new contest!!! Spread the word! :)

Winners Have Been Selected!!!

The Maximum Ride Celebration Promotion is officially over!!!

Two of you guys should have an email letting you know you WON!!!

Thanks to everybody for entering and spreading the word! I got more entries than I expected for my first EVER contest!!! :)

Thanks so much!