This is where I'll review novels that don't fit into the One-Star or Five-Star Categories.

Two Stars
25.9 Diane's Task Part I: Self-Help Book
If the Buddha Dated by Charlotte kasl, Ph.D.
I'm not that interested in self-help love books which is probably what caused me to speed through this novel. I've known these steps for quite some time. Nothing is apparantely new -- only the exercises are different. I'm not sure how much of it to trust or consider quite valid. It's /ok/.

Three Stars

15.4 Science Fact vs. Science Fiction Watched Dune as Sci-Fi Film
Sibley's Birding Basics by David Allen Sibley
What an interesting and informative book. I learned things about birds that I never suspected before. I may have to re-read this one should I decide to go birdwatching this fall. Seems very relaxing.


25.7 Cindy's Task Part III: 3 Word Title
The Coral Thief by Rebecca Stott
The novel all around did not suit my reading tastes. It was very well written and chalk full of intruiging facts and history. The author did thoroughly research the events and scientific break-throughs of the time. For some reason, I simply couldn't get into the thrill of the chase and the discoveries. I kept nodding off midway.

There's an eloquence in the writing style which fascinates me. I've given three stars due to the writer's abilities and perhaps this is more "not my cup of tea". I could see how others would be caught up in this turmoil and be engrossed in the philosophies and debates.

25.7 Cindy's Task Part I: One Word Title
Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides
What a marvel to read. Initially, for some unknown reason, I read this novel as a nonfiction. I kept growling at the author for assuming things about pre-birth until later at book club I went -- OH. Maybe it was how the novel opened that gave me a certain impression. Afterwards, I was able to read more easily through and grew to appreciate certain passages over others. It is a bit of a mixed bag at times. I couldn't understand why parts were written until the very end. Maybe next year I'll do a re-read to explore certain themes in greater detail.

Four Stars

5.5 Required Reading
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
What a wonderful start to a curious and intriguing Time Series! I remember being required to read it in my youth and now re-reading I'm positively joyful. The journey between the planets, figuring out IT (Darkness) and combating IT made me smile. It reminded me of the Neverending Story as well (sans planet travel). Any child would love this adventure.

10.7 Superheroes
Welcome to the Jungle by Jim Butcher
Loved this prequel and especially that it was a graphic novel. It gives enough a bite to leap into Storm Front, which I'm VERY excited to read. Any reader who enjoys magic and combat plus a dark humored main character will like The Dresden Files. Enjoy!

15.5 Time To Study Abroad Part I: French
Gourmet Rhapsody by Muriel Barbery
If you are at a loss for words when describing food, then this is the novel to inspire. The beauty in Barbery's design is enough to capture the delicious taste upon your tongue without ever having had such a meal described. The flavor this man seeks is humorous to say the least. We would anticipate a particular type but in the end, it is very simple.

20.2 Erin's Task Part I: A Book
American Gods by Neil Gaiman
Neil Gaiman has a way with words and weaving the intricate mythologies into this novel. It has made me question the loss of older practices and when, too, shall the present fade away quite like the old gods in the novel. I giggled at many scenes, discovering tiny gems along the way due to my knowledge of the various dieties. Some parts dragged for me, wishing it were somehow shortened, but overall I am pleased with the novel. I plan to re-read this one next year since I read more about the other gods and discover even more hidden gems.

25.1 Nicole Oh's Task Part II: Poetry Book
Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein
What a fantastic time to reread this book of poetry than for the Fall Reading Challenge. It's chalk-full of my favorites such as Sylvia Stout and Boa Constrictor. I remember in my youth giggling at the cute poems and now as an adult, I STILL giggle. Precious good reading.

25.9 Dianne's Task Part II: Self-Improvement
The Princess and the Hound by Mette Ivie Harrison
What a beautiful read. Charming. Quaint. I actually felt transported into a Grimms' Fairy Tale. I love the lore and the mystism. The way the main character rises from his fear and seizes control of his life in the end accompanied by learning true love is beautiful. Highly recommended for those who like to be enchanted.

25.10 Sam's Task: Monsterfest
Pretty Little Devils by Nancy Holden
This piece of teen lit certainly surprised me. Originally I selected this book for (a) swift read; (b) title fit the task; and (c) painless reading since I finished an intense novel called Infidel. The formula is the classic Queen Bee scenario. I laughed at the quirky text messages and the power the QB had over her group; however, I became very surprised when the novel turned toward the classic teen horror flick formula. Pleasantly surprised. Actually, very happy since this task was based on Halloween. Now I've read a Halloween-ish book! Yay! I figured out the villain quite early in the book but I could see how others may not come to that conclusion until the reveal. Great book. Honest.

30.1 Roseann's Task Part II: Dream Job
Walt Disney: An American Original by Bob Thomas
The history of Walt Disney would be inspiring to anyone who has met with frequent disappointments. He continued to pursue his vision and with the assistance of his family and talented co-workers/employees, he achieved the stuff that dreams are made of.

Wow! Lots of 4 Stars from me thus far!

Tanja wrote: "Four Stars

5.5 Required Reading
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
What a wonderful start to a curious and intriguing Time Series! I remember being requ..."

A Wrinkle in Time is one of my favorite favorite books from my childhood. I'm happy to hear it has withstood the test of time. I'm tempted to reread it but was afraid of tarnishing my memory of it being the best book ever.

Doubtful! I've found many of my childhood classics weren't tarnished in adulthood. It made me appreciate the passages I liked as a child which made me smile even more. Maybe read it to another child? That could be cool!!

Tanja wrote: "Doubtful! I've found many of my childhood classics weren't tarnished in adulthood. It made me appreciate the passages I liked as a child which made me smile even more. Maybe read it to another chil..."

I love that idea! Now I just have to find someone who'll let me borrow their kid.

After school programs might have a reading course where you help young ones learn how to read! ^.^

Or distant relations or neighbors or uuuh...Kate cause with those 8... ;)

*chuckles at self* More fours. Whee. Least I haven't come across a 1 since the start of the challenge.