Saturday, June 30, 2012

ALA 2012 Clarification

I wanted to take a moment to address the issue of the ALA book haul video I uploaded to Youtube (which I have removed) and subsequent discussion surrounding the acquiring of ARCs at ALA (and for the most part industry events as a whole, although ALA is the first one I have attended). On the subject of book hauls in general, I personally love watching them. I think it's so fun to see what others are reading and to take notes of titles that look interesting. It's also a great way to connect to other readers and to talk about or showcase books in an efficient and creative way. The reason I started this blog was to share my love of reading (and fashion) with others and to hopefully inspire someone to seek out titles they might otherwise not be aware of. I participated in World Book Night this year for this very reason, and I hope others would share my enthusiasm for books and encourage others to also open a book and ignite a world of imagination.

ALA was the first event of this kind that I attended, although I have gone to large events such as SDCC in the past (which has, in recent years, been providing more and more panels from publishers) so I am accustomed to making the most of the limited time you have at events such as these. I certainly don't feel entitled, but I do feel lucky to have been able to attend this event for the first time. It's been difficult to see so many bookstores closing and it's becoming increasingly more difficult to be able to learn about upcoming titles (and not just big name titles) on a firsthand basis. I enjoy being able to talk to the representatives at the booths about the books they are offering and which titles might be of interest to a reader. I admit that I was a bit hasty in my approach to tackling the exhibit hall. I made a schedule prior to the event so that I would be able to hit the booths that had my favorite authors so I would have the chance to talk to them and to get the books that I brought, picked up or bought onsite signed. I also made a list of upcoming titles I was interested in acquiring, as well as additional books others had expressed interest in having me pick up since they could not attend. My goal was to network and to have the opportunity to get books into the hands of those not fortunate enough to attend events such as these.

How did I acquire the books?

I want to be clear that I neither pushed, shoved, bit, punched, or otherwise invaded anyone's personal space in order to take a look at and decide whether or not I wanted a particular book. I had a carefully made schedule which I created prior to the event based on the online schedule and from contacting authors themselves via Twitter, and I rarely deviated from this schedule, especially for authors I was really excited to meet. Almost all the titles I picked up I had to wait in line for, which to me is sometimes half the fun (you meet the most interesting people waiting in line!). Many of the titles provided to attendees were handed out upon passing booths, sitting in neat stacks on the floor, or given out when one inquired about forthcoming titles. Some of the acquired titles were not books I would, at first glace, go for at a book store. Publishers were out for a lot of the titles handing out books as you passed and encouraging you to take a copy and to get your book signed so you could talk with the author and become interested in something you might not ordinarily think to read. Some of the booths were also selling their books, so I also purchased titles. In addition to that, I brought a bunch of my own books to get signed, books I had previously purchased and which I included in the book haul to show how awesome it was that so many authors were available to talk literature for the weekend.

Where do my books go?

I donate a lot of ARCs to my local libraries, small used bookstores (which are becoming more and more of a rarity), giveaways for fellow readers, used as additional book giveaways for World Book Night, and also to my friends who are teachers so they can give copies to their students (both high school and middle school).. I loan or give copies of books to friends and family, especially since many people I know have been heavily impacted by the current economic state and sometimes can't afford to buy books of their own. I do keep the ones I really enjoyed and know I will return to to read again, or I buy the finished copy when it comes out and hand off the ARC to someone else (because let's face it, I prefer hardcover copies over paperbacks!). My ARCs are never sold online or in stores for profit, although I have seen this trend in smaller bookstores and in library bookstores.

About the video:

This was actually my first Youtube upload, although I have done book hauls in the past for things I have bought or received as gifts. I had initially put a "moderate comment" lock on the uploaded video because I have seen other's videos where people post completely unrelated and rude comments to either the user or to other people posting comments. As a clarification, I alone run my blog, and the titles shown in the video were obtained in the manners mentioned above. I had hoped that someone might see the video and become interested in one or more of the titles being shown. In addition to this, many of the titles shown had already found their way into the hands of others starting the day after I had filmed the video and had time to sort through the titles into appropriate age groups. Did I keep some titles? Absolutely, and I intend on reading and reviewing the remainder of the titles on my shelf in the coming months, most likely with grouped giveaways posted with each review (to save on shipping costs).

I don't contest the idea of having an industry member only event, or even having an exhibit hall day pass for nonmembers. These kinds of issues are brought up year after year at all sorts of conferences and conventions, but I assume the organizers of said events are taking into consideration the feedback of its attendees and are organizing to accommodate as many people as possible. When it comes down to it, whether you are a librarian, bookseller, casual reader, blogger, or industry professional, we all share a love for books and for spreading the love of reading to others. I strongly feel that that is the reason we have chosen to spend so much of our time reviewing titles and promoting upcoming books. Have a great day, and happy reading!

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Waiting on Wednesday >> June 27, 2012

Waiting on Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Breaking the Spine that highlights the books you are most anticipating. This week's exciting soon-to-be-released novel is PODs by Michelle Pickett, due out June 2013 from Spencer Hill Press.

PODs by Michelle Pickett
A horrible virus has ravaged the world, and only a select few have been chosen to relocate to the safe haven of the POD system, a series of underground chambers created to protect the last remaining survivors. Eva and David are among the lucky ones and are awaiting the day when the virus has been wiped out above ground and they can resume life as normal. One year later, the PODs have been reopened, allowing its citizens to return to the world above and start rebuilding. However, what they did not foresee was that the virus had mutated, creating horrific monsters. Now, the remaining members of civilization are facing a greater threat than the virus itself, and Eva and David must seek safety back in the PODs, but will the cleverly crafted underground city hold off the monsters for long? Horror, paranoia, and sheer biological terror await Eva and David in Michelle Pickett's upcoming novel, PODs.

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

New Release Tuesday >> June 26, 2012

New Release Tuesday, June 26, 2012
It's that time of the week again! Yes, my dears, it's NEW RELEASE TUESDAY, a book lover's favorite day of the week in which fresh new copies of literature are made available to us. I'm pretty excited for the paranormal and fantasy read, Dust Girl, and Jodi Picoult's debut YA novel, Between the Lines (which quite simply reminds me of The Neverending Story!). Which titles are you mist excited for this week?

Monday, June 25, 2012

Literary Events >> ALA 2012 Annual Conference


This weekend was such a blast, as I was able to attend ALA 2012 in Anaheim for a fun-filled weekend of books, books, and more books! This was my first year attending ALA, so although I scoured blogs and other sites to get as much information and tips for a first-timer as I could find, I was still completely overwhelmed by the experience! Nevertheless, I am thrilled to have been able to attend my first official book conference and to meet so many amazing authors and bloggers during my weekend adventure! And of course, getting bagfuls of upcoming YA releases was just the icing on the cupcake!

Sunday, June 24, 2012

Cover Me Fashionable >> God Save the Queen (The Immortal Empire #1)

God Save the Queen (The Immortal Empire #1) by Kate Locked
Cover Me Fashionable is a weekly meme hosted by The Lost Lola, which features clothing finds by readers which match the outfits worn on the covers of their favorite books. This week's fashionable cover find is this lovely Corset Story red corset with attached tutu skirt available for $22 and these sleek and sexy thigh highs available from Leg Avenue for $9.70. When you are working as a member of the Royal Guard and charged with protecting the immortal aristocracy favored by Queen Victoria, just like Xandra Vardan in Kate Locke's upcoming novel, God Save the Queen (The Immortal Empire #1), you can be sure to be on your best-dressed behavior. Sporting these steampunk inspired accessories with your outfit will make for the picture perfect example of an ideal member of the Queen's royal protectors. What would your ideal Royal Guard ensemble be?

Corset Story Red Zip Up Burlesque Corset with Skirt
Leg Avenue Opaque Vertical Stripe Thigh Highs

Thursday, June 21, 2012

Review >> Of Poseidon (Of Poseidon #1)

Of Poseidon (Of Poseidon #1) by Anna Banks
Release Date: May 22, 2012
Publisher: Feiwel and Friends
Format: Hardcover, 324 pages (9781250003324)
Source: Purchased from Mysterious Galaxy

Emma McIntosh has always felt a little different after a freak accident in the water left her convinced a school of fish saved her life. Years later, while on vacation in Florida with her best friend, Emma has a run-in with an attractive but strange young man who takes an immediate interest in her. Galen Forza, who happens to be a human ambassador for a species of merfolk called Syrena, can sense something is off about Emma, and his theory about the girl proves correct after a dangerous encounter with a shark. Now, he begins to wonder if she might be the one person who can unite the underwater kingdoms of Triton and Poseidon, but Galen is not the only one who recognizes this gift and an unknown underwater presence has also taken an interest in Emma. 

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Waiting on Wednesday >> June 20, 2012

Waiting on Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Breaking the Spine that highlights the books you are most anticipating. This week's exciting soon-to-be-released novel is Crewel (Crewel World #1) by Gennifer Albin, due out October 16 from Farrar, Straus, and Giroux.

Crewel (Crewel World #1) by Gennifer Albin

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

New Release Tuesday >> June 19, 2012

New Release Tuesday, June 19, 2012
It's that time of the week again! Yes, my dears, it's NEW RELEASE TUESDAY, a book lover's favorite day of the week in which fresh new copies of literature are made available to us. We have yet another light week this time in YA novels, but the title I am most eager to get my hands on is the zombie novel (I can't stress enough how much I love a good zombie novel!) This Is Not a Test. The historical fiction Violins of Autumn also looks promising, and I will have to check that one out as well! Which titles are you interested in reading this week?

Sunday, June 17, 2012

Cover Me Fashionable >> Etiquette & Espionage (Finishing School #1)

Etiquette & Espionage (Finishing School #1)
Cover Me Fashionable is a weekly meme hosted by The Lost Lola, which features clothing finds by readers which match the outfits worn on the covers of their favorite books. This week's fashionable cover find is a bit of a two-fer, but when you're a young lady of quality attending the best finishing school for aspiring spies, you need to be prepared for all contingencies! You can achieve the ideal espionage look by choosing the largest and most cumbersome Victorian skirt you can find- as long as it's held up by a hoop skirt and it's in a delightful shade of black, just like this Virginia Skirt from Recollections. The ladies attending this finishing school are well versed in all manner of etiquette, from proper tea service to efficient knife wielding, and apparently are excellent seamstresses. Why not inquire at Mademoiselle Geraldine's Finishing Academy for Young Ladies of Quality once your look is complete to begin your training, just like Sophronia in Gail Carriger's upcoming YA debut, Etiquette & Espionage (Finishing School #1). What would your ideal finishing school ensemble be?

Saturday, June 16, 2012

Stacking the Shelves (5) + Giveaway

Stacking the Shelves, June 16, 2012
Stacking the Shelves is a weekly meme hosted by Tynga's Reviews to showcase what books and book related items you received this week! No new purchases this week, I think I went a little overboard last week! I did get two netgalleys for review for upcoming titles, which I am pretty excited to start reading. I am also hosting a giveaway for some Fierce Reads prizes, including a signed copy of Monument 14!

Friday, June 15, 2012

Novel Fashion >> Get the "Araby Worth" Look

"I catch a glimpse of myself in a mirror and smile. I am not the person I was this morning. I am beautiful, fake, shallow, incognito." Masque of the Red Death (Masque of the Red Death #1)

The Araby Worth Look
The backdrop for Masque of the Red Death is that of a decrepit, plague infested nameless city existing somewhere within the Victorian time period. Although not specifically labeled as Steampunk, there are clues within the novel that hint at this being the ideal look and feel for the style worn by the characters. Steam powers most technology, and the fashion is highly stylized and modified versions of clothing seen from the Victorian era, including corsets and full skirts. Araby Worth is a depressed, brooding teen who is wracked with guilt after the death of her twin brother, and who opts to follow her friend around and act as her doll to be made up and dressed to head to the streets for evenings of impropriety.

Thursday, June 14, 2012

Review >> Changeling (Order of Darkness #1)

Changeling (Order of Darkness #1) by Philippa Gregory
Release Date: May 24, 2012
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Format: Hardcover, 256 pages
Source: Purchased from Barnes & Noble

"The hammering on the door shot him into wakefulness like a handgun going off in his face."

It 1453 Italy, and the vast amount of unsolved mysteries and curious events has led people to believe that it is the end of times. Seventeen-year-old Luca Vero has just been expelled from his monastery and recruited by a secretive order commanded by Pope Nicholas V in order to travel to the far reaches of the world, documenting and defeating the fears of Christendom. His first mission lands him in an abbey whose most recent Lady Abbess, Isolde, is facing accusations of witchcraft. Little does Luca know that both the abbey and Isolde have secrets of their own, and an inquisition into the strange sleepwalking and stigmata plagued inhabitants may uncover more mysteries than answers.

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Waiting on Wednesday >> The Debutantes

Waiting on Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Breaking the Spine that highlights the books you are most anticipating. This week's exciting soon-to-be-released novel is Debutantes by Cora Harrison, due out August 2 from Pan Macmillan Childrens.

Debutantes by Cora Harrison

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

New Release Tuesday + Giveaway >> June 12, 2012

New Release Tuesday, June 12, 2012
It's that time of the week again! Yes, my dears, it's NEW RELEASE TUESDAY, a book lover's favorite day of the week in which fresh new copies of literature are made available to us. We have a plethora of amazing titles out this week, most of which I am extremely excited to get my hands on. I am anxiously awaiting reading The Fear, a zombie thriller, the mermaid tale Lies Beneath, and a new dystopian story, For Darkness Shows the Stars. From the contemporary YA category we have the mystery Tokyo Heist and the broken friendship road trip story, Reunited. What are you most excited to pick up this week?

Monday, June 11, 2012

Novel Fashion >> Masque of the Red Death

Masque of the Red Death (Masque of the Red Death #1) by Bethany Griffin
This week I scheduled a photo shoot with local photographer Diana and a few members from the fashion community, including the always stylish Christine de la Creme to help create some imagery inspired by Bethany Griffin's Mask of the Red Death. The decrepit city in which the story takes place, which has become infested with the Weeping Sickness, is described so vividly and truly conjures up images of a society on the verge of extinction. The aristocracy use their wealth and status to purchase masks to prevent contact with the contagion, and spend their evenings disconnecting themselves from the horrible realities of the world by partaking in all manner of worldly pleasures at the Debauchery Club.

Sunday, June 10, 2012

Cover Me Fashionable >> Something Strange and Deadly (Something Strange and Deadly #1)

Something Strange and Deadly (Something Strange and Deadly #1) by Susan Dennard
Cover Me Fashionable is a weekly meme hosted by The Lost Lola, which features clothing finds by readers which match the outfits worn on the covers of their favorite books. This week's fashionable cover find is this unbelievably gorgeous black ballgown/wedding dress available from Wedding Dress Fantasy for the low price of $799. It's every little girl's dream to wear a beautiful floor length ballgown... especially when the gown is black, making blood stains from run-ins with zombies practically invisible to the prying eyes of a watchful parent. It may be a bit cumbersome having to fend off an undead army in layers upon layers of skirt, but that's how a true Victorian lady does it, just like Eleanor in Susan Dennard's 2012 novel, Something Strange and Deadly (Something Strange and Deadly #1). Now, if someone can tell me where to get those gloves, we will be fully armed and ready for action!

Wedding Dress Fantasy

Saturday, June 9, 2012

Stacking the Shelves >> June 9, 2012

Stacking the Shelves, June 9, 2012
Stacking the Shelves is a weekly meme hosted by Tynga's Reviews to showcase what books and book related items you received this week! I had a large bundle to pick up this week because of the 6 authors attending the Fierce Reads Tour in San Diego. I got all of my books signed, and scored some sweet swag in the process! I also have an extra signed poster I'll be giving away next week to one lucky follower, along with a signed copy of one of the books on the Fierce Reads Tour and some goodies! Until then, check out this week's haul!

Friday, June 8, 2012

Review >> Masque of the Red Death (Masque of the Red Death #1)

Masque of the Red Death (Masque of the Red Death #1) by Bethany Griffin
Read the chapter excerpt!
Masque of the Red Death (Masque of the Red Death #1) by Bethany Griffin -- April 24, 2012 -- Hardcover, 319 pages, Harper Teen (Greenwillow Books) (9780062107794)

"The charcoal sky spits cold rain as we rumble to a stop at a crossroad. A black cart blocks the road, and even in an armored carriage we know better than to force our way past."

Araby Worth is not just watching her own life crumble around her after the death of her twin brother, she is also living in a city infested with plague and falling into despair. She opts to forget her troubles by spending her nights in the Debauchery Club, an aristocratic hangout where anything and everything is available for your pleasure. She unknowingly stumbles upon a rebellious plot brewing in the halls of the club, and everyone seems to be holding secrets, including the handsome club worker, Will, and the devilishly sneaky aristocrat Elliott. Araby finds herself thrust into a life of rebellion, giving her hope in a seemingly hopeless world.

Tom Banwell Designs

Thursday, June 7, 2012

Literary Events >> Fierce Reads Tour

Yesterday was spectacular, as I attended the Fierce Reads Tour at Mysterious Galaxy Books in San Diego, CA, along with my fabulous friend Christina. I was super excited to be able to meet so many amazing authors and to pick up such a large stash of new beauties to add to my bookshelf! The authors who attended this event included Marissa Meyer (Cinder), Emmy Laybourne (Monument 14), Jessica Brody (My Life Undecided), Jennifer Bosworth (Struck), Leigh Bardugo (Shadow and Bone), and Anna Banks (Of Poseidon).

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Waiting on Wednesday >> Zom-B (Zom-B #1)

Waiting on Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Breaking the Spine that highlights the books you are most anticipating. This week's exciting soon-to-be-released novel is Zom-B (Zom-B #1) by Darren Shan, due out October 2, 2012 from Little, Brown for Young Readers.

Zom-B (Zom-B #1) by Darren Shan

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

New Release Tuesday >> June 5, 2012

New Release Tuesday, June 5, 2012
It's that time of the week again! Yes, my dears, it's NEW RELEASE TUESDAY, a book lover's favorite day of the week in which fresh new copies of literature are made available to us. Lots of great titles out today, I am very excited to say! I have no idea how I have not heard of Dead Reckoning until this post, but seriously, a zombie western? Sold! Also of interest is the mermaid tale, Tempest Rising, the dystopian novels, Surrender and Shadows Cast by Stars, the supernatural thriller Arise, and the fantasy adventure Blazing the Trail. I will also be attending the Fierce Reads Tour this Wednesday at Mysterious Galaxy where authors Emmy Laybourne (Monument 14) and Leigh Bardugo (Shadow and Bone) will be signing copies of their new releases!

Monday, June 4, 2012

A Lolita's Bookshelf >> The Classic Lolita

The Classic Lolita's Bookshelf
Building your wardrobe to match your alternative fashion lifestyle may often seem like a daunting task, from acquiring the perfect blend of dresses, skirts, and accessories that fit your personality, to picking out the perfect wigs, there are so many ways you could get lost in the sea of frills that it often becomes a frustrating affair (not unlike an illicit affair!). Thankfully, the modern maiden is blessed with a large social network to receive input and feedback to satiate her desire to perfect her opulent lifestyle. I present to you today, fair reader, a new series for Gothic Lolita's, Modern Gentlewomen, and enthusiasts featuring book recommendations so that you may fill both your shelves and your Victorian hearts.

Sunday, June 3, 2012

Cover Me Fashionable >> Venom (The Secrets of the Eternal Rose #1)

Venom (The Secrets of the Eternal Rose #1) by Fiona Paul
Cover Me Fashionable is a weekly meme hosted by The Lost Lola, which features clothing finds by readers which match the outfits worn on the covers of their favorite books. This week's fashionable cover find is this purple and black Venetian mask, available from Etsy for $75. Slip this mask on over your eyes and you will be well on your way to joining the aristocratic elite of Renaissance-era Venice, dancing the night away with your handsome and wealthy fiance. Or maybe you're the kind of girl who dreams of life outside the water-flooded streets and canals of Venice, who wants nothing more to live happily ever after with a true Italian artist. Add an air of mystery to your wardrobe and take life by the oars, just like Cassandra in Fiona Paul's 2012 novel, Venom (The Secrets of the Eternal Rose #1).

Shades of Purple and Black Metallic Masquerade Mask

Saturday, June 2, 2012

Novel Treats >> Hunger Games Cupcakes

The Hunger Games (The Hunger Games #1) by Suzanne Collins
Maybe it's because it's 11:30 at night and I have the munchies, or because I just love books and food, but I'm introducing a new segment to the blog called Novel Treats, where I will showcase amazing bookish culinary creations that are works of art in their own right! Today's featured treats are these delicious and beautiful Hunger Games cupcakes, found over at Fictional Food. Aren't they spectacular? I would love to try and create one of these for myself, and then sneak a berry filled one to one of my friends, just for laughs... or for survival. Either way, there's no way you would go hungry with sweets like these!




Friday, June 1, 2012

Stacking the Shelves >> June 2, 2012

Stacking the Shelves, June 2, 2012
Stacking the Shelves is a weekly meme hosted by Tynga's Reviews to showcase what books and book related items you received this week! I had a pretty light load this week, but I'm saving up for the Fierce Reads Tour at Mysterious Galaxy next week and hope to come home with an armful of signed books! Until then, here is what I received this week.

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