Miranda Atchley's Blog, page 57

Book of the Week #10- I Capture The Castle

I Capture The Castle*by Dodie Smith
"I love, I have loved, and I will love."
I Capture The Castle is the story of an English family facing poverty in the 1930's written from the point of view of seventeen-year-old Cassandra Mortmain's journal.The family consists of Cassandra, her older sister Rose, younger brother Thomas, their father, James and step-mother, Topaz. With them lives hired hand Stephen, who is in love with Cassandra. They live in an old castle far from any neighbors. James was once a successful author of the fictional novel, Jacob Wrestling, which was very popular in America. Yet after a mental breakdown and stent in prison, he finds himself unable to write and holds himself in his office while reading detective novels. The rest of the family tries to find ways to make money, Topaz, a former model, occasionally going to London to pose for paintings. Rose wants a husband, basically to get away from the poverty and to relieve the family of her burden, while Cassandra dreams of becoming an author, the main reason she keeps the journal being to improve her writing skills. After his passing, the landlord's American grandsons Simon and Neil come to England, along with their mother Mrs. Cotton (who is coincidently a big fan of James), to take care of the estate.I like that this is written in the style of a journal, which just seems to fit better than if it were to be written in first or third person.This is one of my favorite books ever. It's like classics by Austen or the Bronte's, but definitely more modern (published in 1948) and a little more quirky. This, to me, is a much easier novel to visualize in your mind than other classics.This is a coming-of-age story of a girl approaching womanhood. I wouldn't label it young-adult; it's much more mature than that. I'd say it's more for young women between the ages of 18-24. It's about the uncertainties of becoming an adult, the complications of first loves, and being stuck between girlhood and womanhood.The romance in I Capture The Castle is the kind I like to read about. The real kind. It isn't mushy and cutesy. It's awkward at first, hard to go through and then it's lovely.All in all, I Capture The Castle is a wonderful story that I will read time and again and would recommend to anyone who loves classics. I give this book a 5 out 5.

*Since I write young adult novels, I've decided to add a mark to specify a more mature novel. Most books I feature are Christian, but some are intended for an older audience. So if you're under 18, consult your parents before reading these picks.

Book of the Week #9- Coraline

Coralineby Neil Gainman    It's no secret that I love quirky stories, movies and art and Neil Gainman's Coraline is no exception. It's the story of Coraline Jones who's parents tell her to do something- anything- on a rainy day. Bored and lonely, Coraline roams about the Pink Palace where she and her family live and finds a small door. On the other side of that door, Coraline stumbles into a world where everything is opposite and things get weird.    This is one of my favorite books (I feel like I say that in a lot of "Book of the Week" posts, but hey, I have a lot of favorite books). It really speaks to the quirky part of me. It's like a Sci-Fi fantasy- Stephen King meets Alice In Wonderland perhaps? I really don't know how you would describe it, but whatever you want to call, call it good. There're crazy old neighbor ladies, parents that just don't understand, a weird neighbor kid and ghost children. And they live in a PINK house. #SoJelly    I think they label this as a "middle reader" novel. Most kids around the age of 13 or 14 up would probably enjoy this, but I have feeling it may scare kids below that age. Especially some of the illustrations of The Other Mother.... creepy.    All in all, Coralineis a great read (and the movie is fantastic, too!) and I give it a 5 out 5.

Book of the Week #8- Amy Inspired

Amy Inspired*by Bethany Pierce     I feel like a lot of others do about Amy Inspired; conflicted.  Let me explain.    Amy Gallagher is an English Lit/ Creative Writing professor at a college in Ohio, though her real dream is to be an author. She lives in a garage apartment with Zoë, who is also an aspiring author. Zoë 's friend Eli's apartment building is taken over by bedbugs, rendering him homeless, so Zoë invites him to live with her and Amy.    It's a very well written book. There are times when the language can be a tad bulky, but nothing too major. The voice of Amy Gallagher is somewhat reminiscent of Gilbert Grape (whom people have declared the modern day Holden Caulfield). Someone who's frustrated; someone one who feels stuck in their life and is looking for something new.    The whole struggling writer bit can be depressing to read you're an author/ aspiring author as well. You really feel the pain described in the book, if you know what I mean.As most other reviewers have noted, this is labeled as Christian fiction, but it feels like "edgy" Christian fiction. It's a bit more blunt than most other Christian novels. The Christian message in this story is softly delivered, not quite so bold as most Christian novels. Touches here and there, with a gospel message thrown in toward the end.    The romance in this novel is definitely there, but it is not overwhelming. Again, it is portrayed in a more subdued fashion than most would use, not hot and heavy and uncomfortable.    The relationship between Amy and her roommate was a little odd as you drew near the end of the book. I felt like the two were close at the beginning, but then we find that they didn't feel that way and then when Zoë 's mom died they drew closer. The whole situation just left me a little miffed.It may sound like I'm picking this book apart, but there is just something about it that I really enjoyed. I can't put my finger on it, but I did like this book.    Overall, I think Amy Inspired is a decent read. At times I felt like putting it down and forgetting about it because, again, when you're an author, you do notwant to read about how hard it is to be/ become one. But I found myself wondering what would happen and so I kept reading. Even though it didn't turn out the way I expected it to, I'm glad I did.4 stars out 5 for Amy Inspired
*Since I write young adult novels, I've decided to add a mark to specify a more mature novel. Most books I feature are Christian, but some are intended for an older audience. So if you're under 18, consult your parents before reading these picks.

Book Of The Week #7- How A Star Falls

How a Star Fallsby Amber Stokes    How a Star Fallsis a new-adult romance novella by indie author Amber Stokes. It is about twenty-four-year-old Derrick Knolane who, after a long day at his job at the music store, finds a strange girl asleep on a cliff wearing a wedding gown. She's sweet, innocent and oh-so mysterious, not even willing to tell him her name, so Derrick calls her Brielle. And oh yeah, she tells him she's a star. From heaven.   This is the first book I've ever read from Amber Stokes, as well as one of the few indie books I've ever read (and judging by this little gem, that needs to change!). It's a light, sweet and quick read. Definitely a much lighter story line than a lot of books I read. A good way to describe this book is "boy-meets-girl." But it isn't just about romance. It's about growing up and things not turning out the way you planned. It's about learning to be okay with yourself even though you're not perfect.    I really liked the story. First off, that cover is gorgeous! It has elements of faith without being pushy. There's romance without it being too steamy or corny. It's a new adult novel, intended for people between the ages of 20- 30, but there is nothing in the book that I would feel uncomfortable with a teenager reading. It's a very clean read. Plus, there's just some essence I can't quite put my finger on that I loved about How a Star Falls.I give this book a 4 out of 5

Don't Give Up

    I would say one of the hardest things about being an author is dealing with insecurity.    When I was writing my first novel, I only told a very few people that were really close to me that I was actually writing a book with plans to publish it. Most of these people had known me all my life and knew it was my dream to become an author. I didn't tell anyone else because I wasn't sure when I would get my story published and I wanted to wait until it was a done deal so I could tell others for sure when they'd be able to read it. So, even though I really wanted to tell people, I waited until the day the FedEx guy brought my books to me. But that entire time I was worried. I couldn't help but think I wasn't good enough and no one would like my stories and they would laugh at me. Every time I worked on Stephanie's Story, thoughts like that would plague me. And I'm pretty sure it's that way for every author, especially while writing their first book.    But I think everyone, even those that have no interest in writing, feel that way about something, especially when they're new at whatever it is they're doing. And if anyone tells you that they don't worry about being made fun of or never feel unsure of themselves at some point in time, then don't believe them. Run away from these people and never look back. I am positive that they are lying. It's only human nature to feel insecure about yourself.    But you know what? You can't let it hold you back. If you dream day and night of becoming an author (or a musician, artist, photographer, hairdresser, dressmaker, teacher, nurse, etc.), go for it. Don't let the voices in your head or the voices of others hold you back from doing what you love. It isn't worth it.    I have had people that I've looked up to for years tell me that being an author is dumb and no one cares about it. And that hurt, a lot. And I really don't like those people (I need to work on that, though). But you know what? They can't make me stop writing. They can't keep me from publishing books. Calling me dumb and saying writing is stupid because they are "too many other authors out there" is simply someone's stupid opinion. And opinions are just that; opinions. They aren't facts.And I've gotten that "meh" reaction too, which is almost as bad as the "you're dumb" reaction. You know what I mean, those people who act totally aloof, like they don't quite get why you write books.     "Oh yeah, I just got bored one day and decided to publish a book." Nope, it ain't like that. Try, dreaming of this moment since I was fifteen-years-old, planning it all out with a pink ink pen in my diary.      But for as many people who act like this whole writing gig is totally bogus, God sends those people who really believe in me. Who tell me they love my stories, who are proud of me and can't wait to read the next book. And that makes it all worthwhile.    As for wondering if you're good enough.... I'd just say look at the garbage that sits on bookshelves these days. Honestly, knowing that Kim Kardashian has composed a book entirely out of "selfies" she's taken on her iPhone is the thing that gets me through the day at times. When I think of that little "gem," I just tell myself that I, along with countless other authors, have to keep writing so people will have something decent they can actually read. Otherwise the human race may as well just call it quits.    So my point is that you should never ever give up, no matter how insecure you feel at times. Humanity just may depend upon your talent. ;)

-Miranda Atchley

Book Of The Week #6- Finding Alice

Finding Aliceby Melody Carlson    Finding Aliceis a novel about a young woman who finds out she has schizophrenia.Alice Laxton is a twenty-four-year-old college student living in Oregon. She is a very bright woman, near genius in the opinion of many, but there's always been something a little off about her. Raised in a fundamentalist Christian home, her mentally ill grandmother was always a taboo subject as well as any other mental issues.    This book is written to the theme of Lewis Carroll's Alice In Wonderland and there are many references to the classic tale throughout the book. Each chapter heading is named after an element of Alice In Wonderland.    This, in my opinion, is one of Melody Carlson's finest pieces is of work. It's so real, but it's done tastefully. Melody has a way of giving you a front row seat to some crazy situations in her stories without making you feel dirty after you've read them. You really feel like Alice is falling down the rabbit hole as you read along. Yet this novel is full of hope. I know there is a lot of controversy over the portrayal of mental institutions in this book, but even though Alice starts out in a terrible institution, she finds her way to a wonderful one and I find that very inspiring. And the journey told throughout the book is a great testament to the awesomeness and love of God.    To this date, I believe I've read this book three times in the last three years. That may not sound like a lot, but when you're someone who tries to read as many new books as you can, it says something when you've read a book more than once. All in all, I love this book and would recommend it to anyone looking for a good read.
I give this book a 5 out of 5

Book Of The Week #5- Little Women

Little Womenby Louisa May Alcott    It's time for another one of my favorite classics! This is a book that has stood the test of time and just about everyone knows it.    Little Women is the story of the four March sisters, pretty Meg, tomboy and aspiring author Jo, naive Amy, and sweet Beth. It takes place in the late 1800's during the civil war. Their father is a soldier in the war and their mother, whom the girls affectionately call Marmee, is left to take care of them on her own with a little help from Aunt March until Mr. March comes home during Christmas. Their neighbor, Mr. Laurence's, grandson Laurie moves in with him. The talented and smart Laurie falls for Jo, but Jo.... well, I won't spoil the surprise.   This is one of the only books I can ever remember reading in one day. I just tore through it the first time I checked it out from the library. Most people who know me know I love historical fiction and Little Women is no exception. How can you not love it? It has a little bit of everything; history, romance, humor, and heartbreak. It's one of those books that will make you laugh and cry (really cry). Little Women is a classic that's been passed down for years and I have a feeling people will continue pass it on for years to come.
I give this book a 5 out 5

Book Of The Week #4- Anything But Normal

Anything But Normalby Melody Carlson    Anything But Normalis the story of seventeen-year-old Sophie Ramsey who finds herself pregnant at the beginning of her senior year of high school.   Sophie has always been a good kid. She's been a faithful member of her church even though she doesn't get much encouragement from her less than involved parents and has even taken a purity pledge. Very smart and a good journalist, Sophie has a bright future ahead of her. Her journalism teacher even invites her to be head over the school newspaper during senior year, something she'd always dreamed of. But Sophie never felt like she fit in. She's always carried extra weight and never felt good about her appearance compared to her friends. Humor is her weapon against other's teasing and she always makes jokes at her own expense. So imagine her surprise when a good looking guy asks her out at church camp, the guy her best friend has been in love with her whole life, no less. As school begins and Sophie keeps feeling sick, she eventually gets some life changing news.    This is one of my favorites from Melody Carlson. I've read it a few times and I just never seem to tire of it. It's a little different from most of her other young adult novels, mainly because it's written in third person rather than first person. I think the change in style turned out really well.     Melody Carlson dealt with a delicate issue in a tasteful, yet real way. Asking questions I'm sure many of us wonder, such as why it's ok for a teenager to have an abortion without the consent of an adult when they can't even get aspirin for a headache from the school nurse. She described what it's really like when you're a pregnant teen. It isn't easy. And she also showed the churches reaction, which wasn't very Christ-like, but something that is sadly accurate in a lot of cases.     This book isn't advocating teen pregnancy, nor was it written to make teen mom's feel bad. It shows the struggles teen girls go through when they become pregnant, the judgment cast toward them and the tough decisions to be made, but the ultimate message is that you're never too far gone in God's eyes. There's always hope in Lord. All in all, it's a great read that many teen girls will enjoy.
I give this book a 5 out of 5

Book Of The Week #3- Pride And Prejudice

Pride And Prejudiceby Jane Austen    Pride And Prejudicereally needs no introduction, does it? It's a classic, passed down from generation to generation. People have read it as assignments in English classes, in book clubs or many (like myself) just for fun. You would have to have been living under a rock these past 200 years to not have heard of Pride And Prejudice or Jane Austen.    For those of you who have never come into contact with the book, Pride And Prejudice is the story of five sisters who are looking for love. The Bennet sisters include the beautiful Jane, our spunky heroine Elizabeth, bookworm Mary, and the silly youngest sisters, Lydia and Kitty. Their mother, the nervous Mrs. Bennet, is dead set on getting each one of her daughters married, and couldn't be more thrilled when the rich Mr. Bingley, in possession of $5,000 a year, comes to town. He brings with him his sister, Caroline, and friend, the dark and brooding Mr. Darcy. Mr. Darcy makes an even more impressive $10,000 a year, but seems a bit stuck up. What happens after that? You'll just to read the book and find out.   This little gem has been on my "To Read" list for a while now. I've seen and own a copy of the movie, but reading the book seemed a little intimidating because of the language. It's very different from that which we use today and the type of books I'm accustomed to reading. That difference can make it a struggle to get through the book, but it's those certain moments when you read a line that just makes your heart ache from its beauty that draw you to the book.   I've always been drawn to historical fiction. It's just so interesting to see the way our ancestors lived because it's quite different from the way things are these days. Pride And Prejudice and other Victorian novels are interesting in the way that all the women were looking for men. In so many cases, like Charlotte Lucas' case, a woman will marry a man simply because that's the custom and they no longer want to burden their parents. The marriage doesn't form out of love, it seems more like a job. It is fascinating, but I must say, I'm glad times have changed in that regard.   Overall, Pride And Prejudice is a lovely read. Maybe a little bulky in the language department, but like I said, it has those beautiful moments that make it worth it.
I give this book a 4 out of 5.

Book Of The Week #2 Reconstructing Natalie

Reconstructing Natalieby Laura Jensen Walker*

Reconstructing Natalie is a book about twenty-seven-year-old Natalie who finds out that she has breast cancer.The cover is what drew me to this one. I didn't fully understand it until I found out what the book was actually about, but I liked the vintage picture on the front. And it's pink. This is your typical Christian chick-lit, but then it's not. Confusing, I know. Let me explain.It has its cheesy moments, but really, what book doesn't? I have yet to find a novel that doesn't have at least one cliché scenario similar to something else in its genre. If you've read anything in the Christian chick-lit genre, you know what I mean. It has that typical lingo going on found in most books in this genre. Chocolate addictions are mentioned, things of that nature. And it has lots of heartwarming moments. So in that sense, it is your typical Christian chick-lit novel. But, to me it has a different feel. There are these little details peppered here and there that make it stand apart and come to life, something I really appreciate in novel writing. For instance, one of her friends is an ex-cheerleader who works at Nordstrom's while the other has pink hair one week, blue the next and is an artist. Natalie has a crush on Johnny Depp, watches Friends, and lives in the mother-in-law cottage in her parent's back yard. We could be best friends. And the writing is just awesome in this book. You can really get lost in it.I feel like I should mention that there are a few moments when things get a little iffy. I mean, this is the tale of a woman with breast cancer- boobs are mentioned. But it isn't anything particularly vulgar and this isn't the main focus of the book. It's more about the spiritual aspect of facing a disease.I also like how the author intertwines faith into this book. It just flows organically. Not like, "Well, I better say some stuff about God in here." It's more like God is at the core of this book.I wound up enjoying the book more than I thought I would. It has hilarious moments, heartbreaking ones too, but it all ties together very well. And for that, I give it a 4 out of 5.

*Since I write young adult novels, I've decided to add a mark to specify a more mature novel. Most books I feature are Christian, but some are intended for an older audience. So if you're under 18, consult your parents before reading these picks.