On Living Happily Ever After

The concept of Happily Ever After is simply viewed as a childlike fantasy; one of the connotations of all fairytales that have ever been put from pen to paper. It is the promise that, what opens up with so many possibilities for the characters, can end with the same endless list of opportunities. It is the statement that, when we were younger, allowed us to turn that final page, satisfied that the characters will not see similar events unfold again. It was what first introduced us to the idea of dreams; those that have manifested into the ambitions we have today. But, why can't the ideal our past favourite novels were based on continue when we are slightly older? Who says that happily ever-afters can't exist within the world of YA - without being deemed as unrealistic or clichéd? Why can't we, as fiction is a form of escapism, still enjoy an ending where the main characters - and their sidekicks - do survive?


I'm not suggesting that we introduce a Prince Charming or Fairy Godmother to most YA novels. That, within the time-scale of a chapter, all of the characters' problems should be solved with the wave of a wand or true-love's kiss; that protagonists should all have the ability to slay, with their trusty swords, all creatures that might pose a threat, or stumble across a healing-potion that prevents any fictional deaths(Wouldn't it have been nice to see one appear in Allegiant?I know that's being a little idealistic. I'm not expecting all fictional relationships to last for eternity, or for those counting pennies to suddenly stumble across their fortune and live a life of luxury; for all children in the novel to remain trapped in their eternal youth, the concept of death simply ceasing to exist.

As readers of YA, we've all come to terms with tragedy; come face-to-face with grief and guilt, death and despair. To put it bluntly: we've all read a John Green novel. And there no sugar-coating can be found. Both as those mature enough to handle the themes that are written about in YA and those who are aware of some of the issues that threaten the population at large, we know that - outside of our bedroom walls - the world is not a place for the faint-hearted. We are not oblivious enough to see that the happily ever-afters we used to read about are far-fetched, or to realise that -  it is impossible to achieve the 'perfect' lifestyle we wish to have. From reading YA, I've almost accepted that being a teenager is a synonym for tragedy; that it is the beginner of a tale crammed with cruel plot twists and turns. When there are endings that allow the characters a second chance, the common reaction - it seems - is to threaten to throw the book across the room and start criticising it. But I'm beginning to ask why I, and so many others, are tempted to do this.
 

Sometimes, we need a little bit of hope. And, once in a while, it should be viewed as okay to show someone that all is not lost. To, perhaps, indulge in the littlest of happily ever-afters. Not all YA novels need to end in destruction to be deemed as a 'realistic portrayal' of a certain issue or strive to be a 'tragic tale of love gone wrong'. Just because we are slightly older, it doesn't mean we can't read a book where the dreams of the main character do come true. Two characters, perhaps they become a couple at a point in the book, should both be able to make it to the end of a novel. Friendships that were strong at the beginning of a book should still involve heart-to-hearts and sleepovers at the end; best friends should remain as simply that. When lives are completely torn-apart, and the pieces scattered across the floor, they should be retrievable. In YA, there should be more happy ever-afters, and we should allow ourselves to become immersed in them. It's impossible to name a recent bestseller that does have one of these style endings.  After all, books are our escape from the reality where they could - or could not - ever exist.

***

Do you think we need to welcome more happily ever afters into YA?
Or indulge in them like children do more often?

Tell me in the comments!
 

Discussion: Is Mental Illness Becoming a Trend?

In the past, I've cheered-on authors for including the topic of mental illness in their novels, and even sat down to write a blog post about how I want to read about characters that suffer from the conditions we hardly hear about, to possibly challenge some of the stereotypes we - and society - have come to accept. We have all heard the comments made about the organisation-obsession those with OCD have, or how the person who is having a particularly bad day is deemed as 'depressed'. But, where are the books where main characters are struggling with eating-disorders? Battling against bulimia? I don't know.

 

When addressed with care, including mental illness in YA can have an undeniable impact on readers, offering them the chance to learn - through the characters - how to support a friend or recognise the symptoms of a condition.  Not only can it teach empathy skills to non-sufferers - and end the stigma that surrounds many of the most common conditions -  but a book that tackles mental illness can provide a safe-haven for a teenager in need. They have the comfort of knowing one of their favourite characters is in a similar situation - and is likely to survive it. I could write an almost endless list of all the positives that come from writing about mental illness - but that's for another time. What I wanted to discuss was the trend that is beginning to appear when it comes to tackling mental illness, and why I hope it comes to an end soon.

***

 

Responses to the likes of The Perks of Being a Wallflower and The Silver Linings Playbook, which became well-known for breaking down the barriers of mental illness in fiction, have been overwhelming. Authors have followed their lead, penning their own tales about other 'taboo' topics of conversation, and YA sections have never been so diverse. And I do love this. Although, the success of those that are not sugar-coated seems to have set the precedent for some mistreatment of mental health issues within fiction. In fact, it is seemingly being used as the latest 'selling point' in the YA world; a trend reminiscent of the vampire take-over that followed the Twilight Saga, and the Dystopia-craze that we saw in the Hunger Games aftermath. I'm not the only one that complained about how every YA was centred on a sixteen year-old protagonist, who was likely to be facing a life-or-death scenario.

 

Lately, whilst in a bookstore, I've lost count of the number of novels I've come across that include a mentally ill main central character on the search of new beginnings, and who meets a friend that is described as being equally ''messed up". YA presents the idea that, in a crowded world, those with mental illnesses seem to gravitate towards each other. That, in doing so, they will probably develop a relationship - one that, by the end of the book, typically come to an end; the characters seemingly causing some form of self-destruction. Books need to show that those with a mental illness are not 'outsiders', but are capable of immersing themselves in our society.  Equally, the life of those with a mental illness should not be viewed as a fast-track to a dramatic storyline or heart-breaking ending that will have readers reaching for the Kleenex. Can we not just bring back the idea of a Happily Ever After?

The assumption also seems to have been made that, to score a few extra stars on rating systems, a YA book needs to include a mentally ill character. That it needs to embody a sense of diversity by forcing a condition upon a character or a more 'mature' subject matter onto the novel as a whole.  The same, though, can be said when it comes to including someone who is LGBT or disabled.  I've seen the half-hearted attempts by authors to feature a mentally-ill character, with very little thought for the subject matter itself, and it's no surprise that I've begun to feel hesitant. Mental illness is not a fast-track ticket to becoming the next critically-acclaimed novel. Including a character with a mental illness should be a decision that is thought-out and well-researched; handled with an emotional-depth and understanding that other topics don't call for. Remember: those with the conditions that are written about do read the novels, and they need to see themselves reflected in the tale.

 

At times, though, mental illness shouldn't be all a book is about, but simply mentioned consistently. I'd love to see a book written that features a mentally ill character, yet  isn't about the condition they have directly. I've never seen this done before. Use books to represent the fact that people of all ages live their daily lives with a mental illness, and it may only affect them in the most subtle ways. When authors decide to include mental illness, they do so in a way that means it dominates the whole storyline.  I would rather see a character whose illness has become part of them but who has a life outside the label of 'mentally ill'.

As more novels about mental illness crowd the shelves, and most lack the understanding of the last, I've resorted to wanting less novels about the subject matter. I'd rather read a few where the author has considered the feelings of those who do have a mental illness, than a lot where writers have simply followed the crowd.

 

Are issues like mental illness being used as a selling point?

Are they becoming the latest trend?

 

Tell me in the comments!
 

These discussion posts are never written with the intent to harm a reader. If you do find something that could be viewed as offensive in this post, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sophie
x

Discussion: Race to the Finish?

Now four books behind on my reading challenge for 2014, rather than spending hours baking or nights writing, I should be making my way through the pile of books sitting in the corner of my room instead. For each time I visit Goodreads, there is a reminder, telling me that I'm yet to reach even the halfway stage. I can't help but feel slightly stressed. Should I be reading faster? Reading more than I already do? Should I even be a book blogger if I can't keep up with others? Many are finishing books in a day, whilst it takes me a week to read a single one, some managing to read multiple novels with a few hours spare. So, I try to keep up; rushing through chapters until I reach the end. The result? I love that book a little less than I should have, resulting in a low-star rating at the bottom of a review(which, admittedly, are must easier to write when the book was enjoyable).
 



There is a very long list of blogs I read, and on most,  I always seem to come across phrases such as "This shouldn't take me long to read". Most commonly found lingering in book hauls, it seems to scream that the reader's main goal is to finish the book; being able to place it back into the empty space on the shelf, and quickly. Not to learn lessons, or discover new worlds; not to reach for a box of tissues or have to stifle laughter in a public place like Starbucks. To add another novel to a reading challenge total, and witnessing the percentage books-read being increased. It's a race to the finish. There's no time to develop a relationship with the characters, or understand - and appreciate - the complexity of worlds. Those things the majority of us love about reading are lost as we try to impress others, and sometimes, ourselves.

 

I struggle to finish hundreds of books for one reason: I'm a slow reader, regardless of how many times I have refused to accept it.  I like to savour every word, re-read paragraphs, memorise my favourite quotes, learn about the world(especially when reading books like A Game of Thrones). I love spending time thinking about what will happen next, and making my own predictions; this being part of my reading experience. Making a cup of tea is also key. When hurtling through chapters, barely understanding what is being read, I miss important information, and it only results in a re-read later on. When I'm reading because I have to, not by choice, it becomes a chore. Amidst exams and revision, reading provides an escape and enjoyment, but rushing seems to steal that. Why buy books with the intent of finishing them within a day, just to reach a reading challenge? If it's your hobby, why rush?

Feeling stressed when reading, like you're losing a race, can ruin a book. Slowly, reading has become competitive, like each novel can only have your attention for a set amount of time before moving on is compulsory. Wouldn't it be better to read - and adore - fifty books, then read - and rush - one hundred? Stop trying to rush. Instead, like I'm planning on doing, lower challenge targets; and don't feel ashamed to. I continue to feel pressured into reading a huge amount, but sometimes, it's not possible. Maybe, it's not worth breaking a sweat over. It's best to read and relax.

What do you think?
Is it a race to the finish?
 Is reading competitive for book bloggers?

Tell me in the comments!
 

Discussion: Are You a Planner/Plotter or a Pantser?

Assorted notepads with a few plot outlines, half-designed worlds and some character profiles are stacked in a corner of my room; each one half-filled with my almost illegible handwriting. I've attempted, multiple times, to be a planner. I've sat down with the intent to write chapter-summaries, or even plot a whole novel, but I rarely decide on more than the first handful of pages. The reason? I'm a pantser. That person who sits down at their laptop and writes whatever comes in their head; there's an idea but, no plan to follow. It's like walking with no destination. You just hope that it will all turn into a short-story at the end.

 

 

I'm impatient. Not desperately, but quite. When I've fallen head-over-heels for an idea, all I want to do is write it. I want to work through those first few chapters; rather than spend hours sorting through what will happen during them. No doubt, I'm the same with books. The wait for a sequel is always a struggle, as is the one for a book-shaped parcel to make an appearance in my letter-box. I constantly check Goodreads, and if I'm not doing that, I'm looking through the post. One thing is for sure, you don't want to be stuck in a traffic-jam with me! I find waiting a task. Holding back the urge to write - especially after weeks of struggling with writer's block - is difficult. Trying to plan during these moments makes morning or afternoon incredibly unproductive, as I want to actually be typing! I adore writing - and love how, when I don't plan, the ending comes together.

Mostly, I can blame time for my lack of planning, and how it is non-existent during the school term. If I come home and realise I haven't written a blog post in days, I normally resort to writing a short story after spending a few minutes deciding on what it will be about. It has to be quick. And, although I don't have a collection of written notes, I do think a lot about what I'm going write. Whether it's an upcoming post or new piece of writing, I spend time sorting through what I want to write in my mind, like the points I wanted to make in this discussion. Currently, I'm beginning to use Wattpad a lot more, and am writing for that; finding myself constantly thinking about the characters and their backgrounds, along with how the world it is set in came about.

 As a huge fan of Dystopia, I know I can't just expect to work out a world whilst writing, and that it needs to be thought-out. As much as I love being a pantser, writing in the spur-of-the-moment, I wish I was more of a planner. Away from my keypad, I'm always writing to-do lists and making timetables on Word; sorting out blog events and jotting down notes on post-its. Everything is so organised(most of the time). With writing, being more like this would help me, as you can really see when reading who has put the most time or effort into their work. It's crystal-clear that George R.R. Martin didn't just design the whole Song of Ice and Fire series as he went. It's too intricate. Too detailed. At the moment, I'm definitely challenging myself into becoming a plotter for longer pieces of writing, rather than just opening up a Word document immediately.

Let's see how this works out!

So, are you a planner/plotter or a pantser?
Have you ever tried to change your writing style?

Tell me in the comments!

Discussion: Should more serious-topics be dealt with in books?

I always adore books that deal with situations that can be found in today's society, and those authors that never shy away from the challenge of writing about something that could cause controversy. Some of my favourite books dealing with more difficult-topics are: 'Pretty Girl Thirteen' by Liz Coley, 'Alice Bliss' by Laura Harrington, 'Dear Dylan' by Siobhan Curham and 'The Fault in Our Stars' by John Green. That is, admittedly, quite a mixed-list, with 'Pretty Girl Thirteen' dealing with both dissociate identity disorder - which is a mental-illness - and sexual-abuse. 'Alice Bliss' is all about the consequences of war, but for those left behind, and what it's like for a teenager to loose an important figure in their life. 'Dear Dylan', on the other hand, takes on abuse in the home and 'The Fault in Our Stars' deals with cancer - an illness that is only whispered about - and never discussed as openly as it should be.



Serious topics are treated like they have a caution
sign next to them.

 

There is a list of problems and experiences in this world of ours that could be seen as something to be embarrassed about. Even when reading, there are only a very few number of books that dare to write about something that isn't welcome in a normal day-to-day conversation, that, when it is brought out, it's seen as unacceptable for a young person to listen to. Agreeably, I wouldn't hand a book like Coley's to anybody under fourteen(due to some extremely sensitive scenes) - but in YA, when we are growing up and life is becoming more difficult, I feel it is more important to not be scared to write about abuse, whether that is when a family-member is physically-hurting someone or it's a not-so-good relationship, as just seeing it in books means that young people can notice these things happening, and they may just be more willing to report them.  

 

Stereotypes. They may just be the bane of my existence. Anytime I hear such a sentence as, "This is so OCD" or "I am such a retard," I feel disgusted. I know this can't be helped for some people, as they rarely understand what they are saying. They don't realise that they are in fact insulting those with a mental-illness, or a disability. If young people are reading about characters who are mentally-ill, whether that's OCD, depression or schizophrenia, they suddenly realise what it feels like to suffer through them. They suddenly read all the emotions, and find a connection with the characters, and maybe, someone, anyone, will be hit by the realisation that mental-illness is not a joke. In terms of disability, I have not read one book where I have seen this conveyed. There is such a stigma surrounding mental-illness and I have no idea why this is. Books, let's make it vanish!  I can briefly remember 'Heidi' from when I was younger, and that story has stuck with me for a long time, but I've never come across a book for teens where the main character has a disability. If you don't look a certain way, or act a certain why in these-times you are mocked and ridiculed. Maybe books are the way to make sure everyone is accepted?

 

I'm not sure whether I want to start this debate, but I think it may be time to talk about sexuality. I know there are slowly more books being released that deal with LGBT(Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) themes, but I have to ask, why can I only think of one author, that is well-known, that has these type of books out? I also have to ask why book covers with two males kissing on the front are banned - David Levithan's 'Two Boys Kissing' has been taken off shelves in the past due to this. What is this teaching young people? That liking the same sex is wrong? It is, isn't it? If two boys kissing cannot be seen in the fictional-world, how can it ever be accepted in the real-world? It needs to be, though, because you still hear comments such as, "He's so gay!" when walking through places such as school corridors. If you have a bisexual character, for example, and the reader can relate to them - as these people are normal too - then will we be creating a generation of people that have absolutely no problem with loving whoever you want to love.

 

We see suicides all over the news, one's that have been committed by teenagers, and you're always left asking yourself the question, "Why?" I'd love to see a book written about the aftermath of a suicide in a family, as not many people really understand the effect it can have, especially in the situation where you're feeling so low you begin to consider ending your own life. If it's written about, more people can access information that they may need! You feel less embarrassed knowing there is somebody else - even it may be a fictional-character - that has the same 'problems' as you do. Can certain topics no longer be shied away from? I think so.

 

What do you think?

Do you have any favourite books that deal with hard-hitting topics?

 

This post was in no way written to offend anyone. If any part of it has, please contact me and I will remove it if I feel it's necessary.

Discussion: The 'Strong' Heroine

I write reviews.

 

 In those reviews, I always comment on the main-characters, and if that's a female, I can't help but slip into calling them 'Strong' or 'Feisty', as if that's a shock. This is a habit of mine, and when describing a book I've read to friends, I always end up saying, "The main character is so strong - you have to read about her!" I admit, I've read about the 'Strong heroine' quite a few times, but why is it that being strong is the main characteristic that makes a female heroine? Can't being clumsy, geeky, and quite frankly every-bit relatable like Harriet Manners from Geek Girl by Holly Smale make the perfect heroine too? I think so. Not only did Harriet inspire young girls to be themselves and not worry about expressing their inner-geek, but she was someone that stood up to bullies by correcting their grammar. That's strength, not the one you would normally associate with that kick-butt female-heroine in your mind, but, it takes a huge amount of courage to embarrass someone by noticing the difference between "Your" and "You're".

 

After reading a lot of recent discussions on Twitter and on other websites, I've started to wonder what exactly is the definition of a female heroine and whether it's still okay to call a female character 'strong' and 'empowering'. All female book characters are strong, although before the likes of Celaena Sardothien and Katniss Everdeen came-along, everyone seemed to be left with their jaws-dropped if they found a female character that could just stand up for themselves, or a protagonist that was willing to go against what is expected of them. Although, is a book character not seen as strong if they have had to fight through struggles in a family; is that not the same quality that has had to be used to be the leader of a rebellion against your Government(Sorry, Katniss!), and the same as breaking the rules to protect the people you love?

 

I found this quote whilst looking on Google Images for 'Strong Female Characters' to feature in this post...

 

The definition of a heroine is very different than it used to be.  I'm welcoming a new-era of female protagonists with my arms open wide and I love seeing that young girls have these people to read about and look up to. When you think about a heroine, admittedly the first things that come to mind  are the words strong and brave. That's a stereotype that we can't change, but the understanding that strength is not just being reckless is something I'd love to see. Then names such as Tris Prior(from Divergent by Veronica Roth) but, Tris wasn't just strong. She felt emotions, regretted decisions, felt guilty. Personally, I feel a heroine is not just somebody that saves the day, but also thinks about the consequences. Other qualities I like to see in a heroine is someone who thinks. The 'Strong' heroine is such a limited explanation, when somehow doing something reckless is strength. Admiration comes with strength; I admired Cassia(from Matched) when she decided she wanted to make her own decisions, and instead of making decisions with no regard for her family, she took time to make her choices.

 

Of course, there's also the way we still feel the need to point out where a female character has been strong, rather than getting-used to the way that a young girl can go against things that they don't believe it. Admirable, interesting, relatable, unique, powerful - there are other personality traits that can be a surprise than a women being strong.  The word heroine has a lot of definitions, and I doubt everyone has the same definition when they think about it but, why do we feel the need to comment on the fact we've found a strong character?  

 

So, what defies a female heroine?

 

TOMORROW: Casting the Characters - Matched by Ally Condie

Fandom Freak-Out #1 - TFiOS Movie Poster/Stills Discussion

The first still released by no other than Augustus Waters!

 

2014 is the year that 'The Fault in Our Stars' movie arrives at cinemas, something I am so excited for, as I've got a feeling this will be as close to the book as you can possibly get it. The two year anniversary of the book's release was yesterday, and this means it's a good time to discuss the impending adaptation, since lately, I have been arriving home from school to find movie stills filling my Twitter and Facebook feeds, something I'm not complaining about! The first-look at Shailene Woodley as Hazel and Ansel Elgort as Gus came when the first movie-poster was released, something I can't wait to put up on my bedroom wall. There is a rumour that the trailer for the movie will be released on the 14th Feburary, after a tweet was posted by the directors father(which has been deleted) on New Year's Eve, meaning that we will see it on Valentine's Day! I don't think we'll be seeing the Swing-set scene yet, but here's hoping!

The movie poster has had mixed-reactions - not because people are unhappy about the castings for the movie - but because of the controversial tagline.  I have a love/hate relationship with the fact 'One Sick Love Story' is written across the bottom. This in no way means I dislike the poster; I think that it's a beautiful way to show the romance between Hazel and Gus, as they really do look in love, while not shying away from illness, because you can clearly see that Hazel is ill from the tubes around her nose. You immediately see where the heart of this movie is going to be, and I love this. Of course, I didn't see the tagline straight away, and when I did I personally had to stop and think about it for a while. John Green likes it - and as the author of the book, he knows when a good decision has been made. My main 'problem' with it, is that people who haven't read the book and are not aware that there IS a book, could find it offensive. Fans know that the book shows much more than two teenage cancer sufferers, it shows that they are just like everybody else and deserve the chance to be in love. Although, If I saw this in the street, unaware of what the message of the book was, I think I would avoid seeing the movie. I would think it was being quite blunt, and trying to make a joke with what should be a careful-topic. I understand it; the main reason it was done was to be shocking, was to make people notice it and not hide-away when the topic of Cancer or illness is brought up, and have you ever seen a movie-poster that has made you think so much? I haven't.

One still from the movie appeared on Ansel Elgort's Instagram account(Gus teasing fans!), another was officially released a few days ago, and it's heart-wrenching. When looking at the still from the Anne Frank House, it's easy to admit nobody else could have the chemistry that Shailene and Ansel portray; they look in love, they look like Hazel and Gus with the simplistic clothing, they look like every-day teenagers walking down the street. The only thing is that Hazel's cannula is missing. The still released by Ansel does show Hazel's cannula, something I'm really happy to see as it's shows that they're sticking to the book on even the smallest details. Anyone else notice the chipped bench and broken-flooring?

So, what do you think of the TFiOS poster?

Do you have a love/hate relationship with it?

What are your thoughts on the stills that you have seen so far?

What scene are you hoping will be featured in the trailer on the 14th February, if the rumours are true?

 

When Reading Becomes a Chore...

Reading is such a huge part of my life: it's the one thing that allows me to escape to fictional-world, make friends that lead exciting lives, and learn about what could come in the future. It makes me much more aware of what I should be doing to prevent a future like the setting of Breathe by Sarah Crossan happening, and also allows me to be part of this incredible community where loving to read and celebrating books is what matters. The only problem is, when you're a book reviewer, it can feel like reading is a chore, and this is one of the aspects I try to avoid as much as possible. I, of course, don't want the hobby I love to become something I have to force myself to do because the publication is only a few days away.

 

Opening a book becomes a chore for me when I receive a book from a publisher, realising it's not what I normally enjoy, and would suddenly rather be reading another book that I know I will love, which is waiting for me. I'm currently in this position. Patrick Ness' new novel 'More Than This' is waiting to be read, I've only managed to read the first-page because I've been so busy, and I'm stuck trying to finish all of the ARC's I've got in time for 2014.The important thing is to enjoy reading, for me, as I never want to purposefully rush a book and try to read it as fast as I can. Personally, I could never manage over fifty books in a year due to the fact I'm the type of reader that loves to just take every page, every paragraph and every sentence in, as well as understanding every piece of information. If I ever notice I'm starting to read quicker than usual, in an attempt to put it down, write a review, and never pick it up again, I begin to wonder since when did reading become something I had to do. I'm never more excited than when I get a book-shaped package, and love receiving books to review though!

 

Because I want to read everywhere.

 

To stop reading becoming a homework that is completely un-related to school, which, after all of my revision lately I definitely don't want to happen, I seem to get into the habit of reading a book I'm not enjoying much, and one I have been wanting to read, and have heard amazing things about at the same time. This isn't something I normally notice, I'll admit, until it comes to talking to someone who asks me what I'm currently reading, and start listing them! One of the worst things to happen is to get yourself into a reading slump but, I will have around two weeks(normally the holidays - which are one week away!) where I read a huge amount, and then will not pick up a book for another week. I wish they wouldn't happen, but If I don't want to read, I don't read. It's simple. I think this is a point that needs to be made as book bloggers turn those pages more times than most others so, if you read two books and then think, ' I need to read this one for that review to go up next week' STOP. I started going through a phase of doing this and my thoughts were elsewhere.

 

I doubt I will ever give all of the review-copies I receive a five-star rating; as I'm not going to love them all, and not every book is going to be my idea of brilliant. When I request an ARC, or get an email about the next month's books, I almost read the synopsis and choose one's I think I will like. This doesn't mean I just stay within the safe boundaries of one genre, as I adore finding a new type of book I like and having it surprise me, but instead if there's one I feel like I should get for the reason that I can, I make sure I don't ask for it. I want to write positive reviews and only give constructive criticism if I need to; so why start I book knowing that I may not like it in the first place? You've got to be in a certain 'mood' to read different genres. If you're going through exams and need a book to make you laugh, I suggest you pick up a copy of 'Geek Girl' not 'The Fault in Our Stars.' These are the small choices that make my love for books just grow.

 

Do you ever feel like reading becomes a chore? What do you do to make sure this doesn't happen? Tell me in the comments!

Dicussion: Personality VS Professionalism

Finding the balance between having the right level of personality and professionalism is something I tend to worry about a lot. It's the way that I don't want to throw my personality at you; putting you in a situation where all you want to do is escape. Although, I also don't want to be overly-professional; to a point where everyone gets bored...and where a single part of what I say reflects who I am and the type of blogger I want to be. This discussion is all about whether you feel you need to have a certain level of personality, and how professional you feel you need to be, whilst making sure people remember you are a young(possibly teenage - like me!) blogger.

 

Personally, I think that you need to show you can be professional, especially when writing an email to a publisher and requesting ARC's, for example. This shows you know what you are doing, and that they are willing to send you the books because they realise you must be able to organise your time. If you sound professional through an email, these people want to look at your blog too, and it is probably a lot more likely to gain their interest if the simplest things are done: no spelling mistakes, formal language, and organised so, they are able to easily work out what it is you are offering. Even so, I think there are times when they want to see your personality. I do this by using Twitter, and talking to my blogging-buddies like I have known them forever. I follow publishers that I have review books from and here they can really see that I am just a teenager - and will moan about homework, and chat about book-boyfriends. Oh, and freak-out a huge amount about new book-to-film adaptation trailers.

 

I love chatting to people online, and getting to know those who I genuinely get-along with! It's also great to see someone being relaxed about what they are saying, and willing discuss their lives. This part of blogging is one of my favourites; understand someone's personality to a point where you ask them if they are OK, and want them to email you if they feel down. Also, it's a good-feeling to know you can email someone with no subject line and just write them one short sentence, all in capital letters, and it will start a whole conversation. Of course, you can't really do this when communicating with a publisher, or author talking about an interview or even if you want to attend an event.

 

Having a personality is also something high up on the 'Must Have' list. You shouldn't be afraid to be yourself when blogging, in fear of not being 'professional' enough. This is something I struggled with but, I end up smiling and laughing a lot more because I'm myself. You shouldn't feel like others have a bigger-personality so, are coincidentally more important. This isn't how it works! I prefer to see someone with a bit of personality, rather than trying to be too much to be professional. As your blog becomes more popular, I think you just sink into a mode of, "Wait - I shouldn't say that."

 

Just wink at people, instead!

 

All of this combined - my overall opinion is that there are times when professionalism is really important and other times where, you just need to be yourself and come-across as who you are. It's about being comfortable, and I know I wouldn't be always trying to be professional. I know when to adapt a different tone but, then I have my places where I feel I just need to talk and talk without worrying about sounding un-processional. This never means I go about swearing and ranting, I don't know why but I'm always immensely careful not to be offensive when tweeting or talking online. Anyone can see that tweet - a person in marketing and someone who was thinking about getting me involved with something - so, being considerate is even more worthwhile than keeping to rules that should be there for people who do this as a job. Not as a hobby where our plan is to discuss books and make sure people find the best-read!

What do you think?

Tell me in the comments!

Discussion: Finding 'The next Hunger Games!' and 'A romance like Twilight!'

'Watch out Katniss...there is a new kick-butt female on the block"

"This is the next Hunger Games!"

"Harry Potter has competition!"
"The Mortal Instruments is the new Twilight."

 

If you follow me on Twitter(@DayDreamsWorld), you may have noticed recent tweets where I have been discussing the way people feel the need to constantly compare books to a novel that has been successful. I know I'm not the only one who has seen stickers on books with 'This is the next Hunger Games!' pasted in a bold-font across it, or taken a look at the reviews to see, 'Watch out Katniss!' When there is a new love-triangle, it is immediately compared to The Twilight Saga and any book with even an element of fantasy or magic in it gets the Harry Potter or Mortal Instruments treatment. Writing-styles are also always called-upon, with comments on how the author creates worlds like Veronica Roth(author of the Divergent series).

 

This is the one thing about the marketing of books that I let out an exasperated sigh when I see. It's not just the marketing of books though, It's when a film-adaptation is announced and you only open a magazine to see it asking what it will replaced on the popularity-scale. I can't help but feel that there is no need to constantly compare things; especially since it happens so much in society anyway. When you compare a book, I want to see whether it will live up to it. Of course I do - since your gut-reaction is to see if this book is, in fact, better than a series you know is loved by generations. Although, I feel like these comparisons are being over-used. Now, it seems like people are looking to find the success of the books that never really tried at all; instead it just happened. That's the magic of a good book, though. That people fall in love with it because it is original, unique and can't be compared to anything else.

Wait - another comparison? OH MY.

 

As I said above, I see a comparison and sigh. I sometimes feel it can leave me a sense of not wanting to read it, if it can't stand on it's own. A few months ago, I read Natasha Ngan's 'The Elites' and on the back of my proof-copy it said that it had the 'action and adventure of the Hunger Games' when, I felt it instead stood alone. It had no resemblance to the action and adventure - but, instead, had it's own course. One of my other favourite novels is Sarah J. Maas' Throne of Glass, which had a big sticker on the front saying 'Hotter than The Hunger Games' - is anyone else noticing they use the recent best-seller to draw people in? I wanted to read this book as I thought it sounded amazing, not due to the fact I wanted another Hunger Games. I experienced that, now I want something different.

 

Truthfully, I can say that comparisons are a pet-peeve of mine, despite the times where I read to see if it lives up to the said novel. Why can't we accept things for being different? Why can't we read a book and think, 'Wow, this is like nothing I have ever read' - as we all seem to hunt down the similarities! Something I have also noticed is that once an idea is out there sometimes, it's best if that is left to being the only one. This year alone, Beautiful Creatures and The Mortal Instruments lost at the Box-office because they were said to be 'the next Twilight.' I have read both books and disagree with this - especially as they are all very different when it gets into the detail - but, this comparing could easily be the reason for why they didn't do so well. Think about it.

 

A final point: what if it doesn't live up to the 'Harry Potter' label? Isn't that going to be a disappointment? So, yes, you read it because you see it as a challenge but, most the time readers are looking for a completely fresh idea and premise. Being a book-blogger, this really is something I love to see!

 

What do you think? Tell me in the comments!

 

 

DISCUSSION: Does reading have competition?

Wait! Don't judge me writing that just yet! This blog post definitely has a point! I woke up this morning, and since it's Friday and clearly felt extremely tired and ready for the weekend, to see a discussion taking place on my television. The discussion was all about how reading is competing with iPad's and other game devices for a child's attention - or, in my opinion, everyone with the ability to tap a button and have an entertaining-for-hours game with an annoying tune playing in the background. So, this discussion post was born! Does reading really have competition from 21st-century past-times? Is it going out of fashion as the technology comes in? Is there always time for a book - despite how much the new phone app is entertaining you?

Let's face the fact, in my eyes there is always time for a book. Any place. Any time. I don't feel like myself without a book in my hand or safely tucked away in my bag: it's just a part of who I am. I feel more comfortable knowing I can pull a book out and go to another world within minutes. I understand people have busy-lives: I'm currently drowning under GCSE coursework, as well as still attempting to take on whatever life feels like throwing at me next. I, personally feel like reading is left-out as it's just dismissed as 'not-important' when, it should be a part of everyone's daily routine. Since the discussion I watched earlier was about children, and that so many of them think it's 'un-cool' to read, I can't help having to mention that it's much more convenient for a parent to slip a games console in their child's hand than spend half-an-hour telling them how to pronounce each word.

The fast-paced, momentary-thrill of apps and games on an iPad - or in my case the Kindle Apps I have is enjoyable. I've had games I've spent a lot of time playing over the past few months, but I always go back to books. Children avoid reading because not many people spend time taking their children to the library or encouraging them to read. This needs to happen! We can't expect children to find their own way to the books they'll enjoy, and adults need to make time too! If you're excuse is, "I'm always busy with work" I'm afraid that I know you have breaks. I'm not-so-sorry to tell you that you could easily read while taking a bus-ride to work, or commuting on the train. Those times - Dad - you spend sleeping mid-afternoon. Pick. Up. A. Book.

I don't think reading has competition - I think it's made out to be time-consuming. Which, of course, it's not. I think the fact of sitting and trying to make your child read, or teenagers sitting down with another book after spending hours in school going through Shakespeare texts and analysing every sentence, is scary. Scary, it's a nightmare for most people but, reading shouldn't be judged. The simple, light games are easy and enjoyable but, reading takes the slightest bit of effort. I mean, take your child to the library, teenagers try reading instead of following the crowd and demeaning it unpopular and boring.

Pick up a book - and maybe this will be your reaction.

Reading will never have competition. Reading is it's own, wrapped up and carefully packaged, past-time. It has an ability to make you laugh, cry and want to talk to everyone person you can find about what you have just experienced. To say it has competition is not the right statement. To say it takes longer than a five-minute game that is full of bright-colours and interesting characters, and that it takes more concentration is right. Children struggle to concentrate, of course they're going to lean towards something fast and easy. Once again though, I wish the book blogging world was known about when they're arguing over whether books are becoming less popular. A decade ago, we didn't exist. Us book-lovers are here and if you know that, I think it's clear reading will always go on. As we keep our local libraries open single-handedly anyway.

What do you think? Does reading have competition? Or do you agree it's all to do with making the time?

Tell me below in the comments!

You may be wondering where my monthly wrap-up is and if so, I didn't get up to much during September so have decided to include a small re-cap when I'm talking about my experience at Bath and Cheltenham Literature Festivals on Monday! I'm meeting Lucy from Queen of Contemporary tomorrow, as well as one of my favourite authors Siobhan Curham. I may be freaking-out!

Discussion: The Waiting Game

When I receive a book for a review, and get stuck-in, I always seem to find it's part of a brand-new series. Or, I pick one up from Waterstones and realise that it's also part of a series and I have to wait a year for the next book. Sometimes I know this is the case before I buy it, and still do, so, I can blame myself when it comes to the months of waiting for the next book. But, during this time I forget what happened in the previous book, all the small details, about the characters and I have to find time to re-read the book. Re-reading a book can prove a hard task when you're a book reviewer as you always need to post a brand new review and keep up to date with the review copies you do receive. This is why I like to have the whole series published before I start a series as I can read them back-to-back

and enjoy them as one.

 

You may be wondering why I'm writing this post now, and my reason for this is that I've just finished 'Crown of Midnight' - book two in the Throne of Glass Series. I was so excited to continue with the series after reading book one in January, and now after a brilliant ending to Crown of Midnight, I now have around a ten - twelve month wait for the third book. This is why I prefer to wait for the whole series to be published before I read book one but with Throne of Glass, I just felt like I was missing out. And I was.

 

Reading a series back-to-back for me is such an enjoyable experience. The first book is always an introduction to the world and the characters, where I decide if I'm going to feel connected to them. By the final book, I've been on a journey with them. I haven't had to put down the book, go read something else and then come back. I know everything about the series, and can answer any trivia question you throw at me. I just love doing that. Series' I have read back-to-back have included The Hunger Games and The Twilight Saga.

 

As well as being forgetful, and reading other books, I also find that I have a lot of un-finished series' on my shelf. Being a blogger, I know I'm lucky to get sequels earlier than I would if I didn't write book reviews. I like to say "I've read that series, I loved it" and then move on. I feel it's just the type of person I am: the type of organised, sticking posted-notes everywhere type of blogger that doesn't like going onto another job unless my previous one is done.

 

There are a lot of negativities when it comes to having a year wait for a book sequel but, there's also the excitement that comes with waiting for the next novel. At this moment there is a countdown on my side-bar for Allegiant and I'm really enjoying discussing what I think will happen in the third book - almost a year after I read the first two. The wait is frustrating, to say the least, but on the day of the release I will be straight down to Waterstones to pick Allegiant up. I'll get to be a part of the initial reaction, and just revel in finally getting my hands on a copy.

 

The there's synopsis, cover and trailer releases and the initial reviews. It's all a lot of fun to be involved in. I guess if I just read whole series' at a time, there would be a lot of books I would miss out on. I know that 'The Bone Season', one of my more recent reads is the first in a planned set of seven so, there would be seven years until I would start the first one.

 

Just sometimes, there is a really long wait. I feel a year is a lot, I'd much rather around a six-month wait as I can just about remember the plot. And who the characters are. Just to wrap up this post, here are the top three sequels I'm anticipating:

 

1. Resist(Breathe #2) by Sarah Crossan
2. Allegiant(Divergent #3) by Veronica Roth
3. Geek Girl: Model Misfit(Geek Girl #2) by Holly Smale

Do you prefer to wait until all of the books in a series are published, or wait a year for the sequel and just enjoy book one?

 

What do you do to pass the wait for a sequel?

 

You could be featured in my next discussion post!

 

 

Debate Time: The 'S' Word!

This is a topic many of us as Teen Bloggers decide to avoid and I admit, I thought about this a lot before making the choice to write this post. Sex is a topic many of us seem to avoid in conversation as let's admit it: it makes everyone feel uncomfortable. I find, it's just as uncomfortable when that type of scene just appears in a book when it's un-needed. But, I guess if I'm writing this post it shows young people are mature enough to have some sex-content in their novels. But please, not too much detail!

 

I think the whole discussion surrounding 'explicit content' is the fact on whether we are too young to be introduced to what is seen to be an adult subject. Are we? I think in our society it shouldn't be sugar-coated, but it is. And it shouldn't be made glamorous, but it is. I mean, there's an image at the moment that you're not cool unless you have a boyfriend/girlfriend. Where did that come from?  The word 'sex' always seems to be whispered. Even when discussing this subject with fellow bloggers on twitter we used private messages. Although, isn't it important to show that sex can be talked about openly and through books, is there a chance that the number of teen pregnancies will be reduced? Books are talked about so, isn't it important that meaningful topics are put into them?

 

This argument could also highlight the amount of graphic violence we read. Isn't graphic violence an adult topic but something that is never simply avoided in novels? For some reason we can read books where people are constantly fighting - The Hunger Games is a great example, showing how popular it has become - but, when it comes to sex it has to be avoided?

 

Of course, I don't want to be reading detailed, over-the-top romantic gestures. I think Stephanie Meyer sets a great example when it comes to quite a 'rocky-terrain'. She gives us enough information for us to imply what is happening but doesn't go into the detail. That introduces us to this topic without making it partically glamorous and adding in humour when Edward's strength breaks the bed structure. This is what teenagers need. The fact that sex is not something to be avoided nor, glammed-up as let's face it: there is that pressure to have sex at a young age. I almost forgot to mention a small book known as 'The Fault in Our Stars' another book that I feel is the right way to handle this topic. It's there, but is written for our age. And this is still a fantastic novel.  

 

As a YA Blogger, I've also been offered books from an adult genre to read where I have found explicit content with no warning. Although adult, should they're still be a warning showing that there is that type of content in the novel? In many ways, I think the fact it is an adult book could give you a hint to what is inside but, in a society where we seem to be hidden from so much, you never know what could make a novel adult. In my opinion an adult read could be something with: strong violence or language, extreme threat or explicit content. Especially when offering young bloggers the chance to read adult books, I think there should be a mention of what classifies them as adult. I recently picked up 'The Arrivals' by Melissa Marr where I found some really strong sex content which I was never told would be in the novel. I ended up skipping those pages, as in many ways, there are limits.

 

You mentioned the 'S' word. How a conversation can change.

Then there is the small fact of adding warnings. Maybe that would be the right thing to do. A small label on the back reading, "Some sex content" as then when someone complains about the amount of explicit content in their YA novel, you can point out that they had a choice on whether or not to read it. Is this the right way to go? I hope it doesn't come to this but when offering adult review copies to YA bloggers, I think it would be a good idea.  

 

Personally, I don't think sex should be avoided. Nor do I think we should be afraid of shouting out the 's' word for everyone to hear because, whenever sex is brought up everyone feels inclined to change the topic. At some point, we are going to be adults thrown out into the world and I'm sure everything will stop being glossed over then. There can clearly be too much detail as our ages definitely need to be taken into account. This also can't become a trend where every Young Adult romance contains it like recently love-triangles seem to be everywhere. As really, that just encourages things. But, publishers, don't be afraid to challenge us. Don't be afraid to write about the real-world, not all the time, but sometimes. We need that. We need reality.

 

Do you think there should be sex-content in YA? If so, how much?

Do you agree with me when I say we need it sometimes, just not all the time?

Thank you to Helen Douglas and all the bloggers on Twitter for helping me out when debating on whether or not to write this post!

 

Turn the Page Once More

 When I read The Hunger Games, it instantly became my favourite book. I think I've read it three times now, and Catching Fire twice. I also find myself constantly flicking to a random page and just enjoying a few chapters because I know the story so well and there's the urge to jump back in. It frustrates me when I find that I've forgotten details about the storyline or the characters. In this case, I head for my bookshelf and flick through the pages until I can find out what happened or who it is. It's the small details that make me want to read a book again. This is something that will keep me up late at night, trying to think of a characters name. It's good to know I have my bookshelf close by for late-night thoughts. And you may be thinking why? You know how it ends? But I think it's because you want the characters to live again or to enjoy their story.

If I had more time, I'd definitely re-read books more. Some others I'm eager to re-read are: Hetty Feather and Sapphire Battersea by Jacqueline Wilson, since I have the final book waiting on my shelf and Divergent and Insurgent by Veronica Roth but I think I will wait until a few weeks before Book 3(Convergent?) comes out. This is the reason I will be re-reading books over the next few months. Most of the sequels I am desperate to read come out in September or October these including Resist(Sequel to Breathe) and Crown of Midnight(Sequel to Throne of Glass which I am reading right now). This is one of the other main reasons for me re-reading, so I know where the storyline's left out and have all the characters back into my mind. There's also The Raven Boys #2 to look forward to in September.

Dive into your old favourite read!

Although, I find I do not read many books again. The odd few, yes, but I prefer picking up a book from my shelf and reading a few pages or chapters, just to refresh my memory. I always do this with my old Jacqueline Wilson books. She inspired me to write and read, along with being my favourite child-hood author. I bought the magazines and most of her books. I always find them really relaxing, when I can't sleep at night they are perfect. Other books I always do this with are Geek Girl, Small Blue Thing and Beautiful Creatures. How couldn't you?

There have always been those books I've put down after the first few pages but picked up again. I read the first few pages of The Hunger Games to give up, and pick it up a few minutes later to try again. There are those books I won't be giving another try-The Perks of Being a Wallflower was one I left on Page 24. I really wanted to love it, but didn't.

When do you turn the pages again?