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Melanie's Tic-Tac-Toe Challenge - COMPLETED
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Book:
Schooled in Revenge Author: Jesse Lasky
Date completed: 5/26/2024
Task: Get your adrenaline pumping with a book that features fierce competition, whether it's in sports, games, or any other form of rivalry.
How it fits: Ava, Reena, Jon and Cruz are being trained by Takeda to get revenge on those that ruined their lives. There is a rivalry between Ava and Reena at the beginning of the book however when they are training there is a fierce competition between the characters especially during the rope climb and flag grab.
Great, well done, Melanie! Your choice brings you the first 2 points in the Tic-Tac-Toe challenge and gives you the first move in our second game!
To start the first game, I'll be placing an "X" in the middle cell, B2.
This move gives you the opportunity to explore one of three fascinating reading tasks:
a) Dive into the story of a middle sibling and uncover the joys, challenges, and complexities of their journey.
b) Explore the experiences of a character navigating life in the middle class , with all its ups and downs, dreams and aspirations.
c) Embark on an adventure to a remote or secluded location and immerse yourself in a story that unfolds in the vast expanse of the middle of nowhere
After you finish reading your book, don't forget to take a moment to think about your next move in the Tic Tac Toe game. Your strategic choices in both literature and gaming will make for an exhilarating experience!
Happy reading!
Book:
The Sugar Palace Author: Fiona McIntosh
Date completed: 5/31/2024
Task: Explore the experiences of a character navigating life in the middle class, with all its ups and downs, dreams and aspirations.
How it fits: Grace and her parents are middle class. They live in The Rocks, Sydney (working class area) but have a thriving grocery shop that allows them to live a comfortable life so not rich but not poor.
Next move: C1 please.
Great job, Melanie! Your choice brought you another 2 points in the Tic-Tac-Toe and your next move invites you to choose one of the following paths going forward:
a) Hit the open road with a character who embodies the spirit of freedom and adventure, riding through life on the back of a motorbike . Feel the wind in your hair and the thrill of the ride as you journey alongside them through the pages of their story.
b) Trust in the wisdom of those who know you best, as you dive into the pages of a book recommended to you by one of your friends .
c) Immerse yourself into the tranquility and depth of the color blue as you as you explore a book with a blue cover .
Which one will you choose? Happy reading!
Book:
ScrublandsAuthor: Chris Hammer
Date completed: 6/8/2024
Task: b) Trust in the wisdom of those who know you best, as you dive into the pages of a book recommended to you by one of your friends .
How it fits: Recommended by a friend.
Great job, Melanie!
Your choice brings you 2 more points in the Tic-Tac-Toe Challenge, and the next move, X in B3, is inviting you to choose one of the following reading tasks:
a) Delve into the life and career of a musician or band . Whether it’s a biography, memoir, or a novel inspired by the music industry, explore the stories behind the music that moves us.
b) Travel back in time and discover literature from the transformative decades of the 60s and 70s . Enjoy a book published in this period and enjoy a historical perspective on a topic of your choice.
c) Let your wanderlust guide you as you read a book set in a location you’ve always dreamed of visiting . Whether it’s a bustling city, a serene countryside, or an exotic destination, immerse yourself in the story and get a taste of the place through the narrative.
Happy reading!
Book:
I’m Glad My Mom DiedAuthor: Jennette McCurdy
Date completed: 6/18/2024
Task: c) Let your wanderlust guide you as you read a book set in a location you’ve always dreamed of visiting .
How it fits: Set in Los Angeles where I'd love the visit.
Next move: B1 please.
Great job, Melanie! 
Your choice brings you another 2 points in the Tic-Tac-Toe Challenge and your next move, O in B1, invites you to choose one of the following tasks:
a) Delve into a book that tackles important social issues . Whether it's about equality, justice, or community, gain new perspectives and deepen your understanding of the world around us.
b) Discover new storytelling styles and broaden your literary horizons by choosing a book from a genre you typically don't explore .
c) Find a story where animals play a central role and enjoy a book that features an animal as a main character .
Which one will you choose? Happy reading!
Hard Eight Author: Janet Evanovich
Date completed: 6/22/2024
Task: c) Find a story where animals play a central role and enjoy a book that features an animal as a main character .
How it fits: Men in a bunny and bear suit are stalking and assaulting Stephanie; MC animals.
*** If it is actual animals you want, I will read for Task 2 instead. ***
Next move: N/A.
Hi Melanie, The book doesn't exactly fit the task, but you still have one free skip for the challenge that you could use in this instance. And since you've already read a book, I would only need you to let me know if you want to use the free skip.
What do you prefer? Reading a book for task 2 or use your free skip and move forward?
Im reading a classic at the moment that fits Task B so I will re-post when finished. I had a feeling an actual animal character was needed so no issues there.I will strike out that post.
Book:
Pride and Prejudice Author: Jane Austen
Date completed: 6/30/2024
Task: Discover new storytelling styles and broaden your literary horizons by choosing a book from a genre you typically don't explore.
How it fits: MPG Classic Literature; a genre I don't normally read.
Next move: N/A
Great job, Melanie! 
Your choice brought you another 2 points in the Tic-Tac-Toe Challenge and the next move, X in A1, brings you in front of the following reading tasks:
a) Delve into the pages of a debut novel and witness the birth of literary talent that promises to captivate and inspire.
b) Step into the spotlight, explore the world of performance and become more comfortable with the stage as you're reading a book with an actor as its main character .
c) Experience wonder and enchantment as you encounter spells, mythical creatures, and realms where the impossible becomes possible as you're reading a book with elements of magic .
Which one will you choose? Happy reading!
Book:
A Glasshouse of StarsAuthor: Shirley Marr
Date completed: 7/26/2024
Task: book with elements of magic .
How it fits: Magic makes the MC's house shrink when it is scared and expand when it is happy. There is also a magic glasshouse in the backyard where the MC can visit her late uncle.
Next move: C3 please.
Great job, Melanie! 
Your choice brings you another 2 points in the Tic-Tac-Toe Challenge, and your next move, O in C3, invites you to choose one of the following reading tasks:
a) Explore themes of mortality, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of the human soul by delving into a narrative where the main character faces the ultimate fate—death .
b) Embark on a thrilling adventure by diving into a book with the word "final" in its title . Discover the secrets, unveil the mysteries, and immerse yourself in a tale where every page promises the excitement of a grand finale.
c) Revisit a beloved series one last time by reading its final installment . As you bid farewell to familiar characters and cherished worlds, you'll embark on an emotional roller coaster filled with nostalgia, anticipation, and the bittersweet joy of reaching the end.
Which one will you choose? Happy reading!
Book:
The Happiest Man on Earth Author: Eddie Jaku
Date completed: 7/30/2024
Task: Explore themes of mortality, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of the human soul by delving into a narrative where the main character faces the ultimate fate—death .
How it fits: While in Auschwitz, 3 times Eddie was in the line for the crematorium before being pulled out due to being a skilled worker (facing death.)
Next move: N/A.
Great job, Melanie!
Your choice brings you another 2 points in the Tic-Tac-Toe challenge, and the next move, X in C2, invites you to explore captivating narratives and profound themes by choosing one of the following tasks:
a) Dive into stories where the protagonist is a writer . Experience the creative process, struggles, and triumphs of characters who bring words to life and immerse yourself in their literary world.
b) Uncover the complexities of relationships, bonds, and conflicts within families. From heartwarming sagas to intense dramas, delve into tales that highlight the intricacies of familial connections .
c) Embark on a philosophical journey that delves into life's biggest questions. Seek wisdom, inspiration, and perspective through books that explore what it means to live a meaningful life .
Choose your challenge, pick a book that resonates with you, and let the adventure begin! Happy reading!
Book:
Silver Author: Chris Hammer
Date completed: 8/10/2024
Task: Dive into stories where the protagonist is a writer .
How it fits: MC/protagonist Martin is a journalist and author of a true crime novel.
Next move: A2 please.
Well done, Melanie! 
Your choice brings you another 2 points in the Tic-Tac-Toe Challenge and your move, O in A2, invites you to choose one of the following adventures:
a) Experience unique storytelling and an intimate glimpse into the characters' lives and thoughts by delving into a book written in epistolary form (letters, emails, etc)
b) Discover stories that bring fresh, authentic voices to the literary world and broaden your understanding of diverse experiences by exploring the rich and varied perspectives of a non-binary or genderqueer author
c) Get a deeper understanding of important and controversial societal issues by delving into a book that has been banned or challenged at some point in history
Which one will you choose? Happy reading!
Book:
After She's Gone Author: Camilla Grebe
Date completed: 8/27/2024
Task: book written in epistolary form (letters, emails, etc)
How it fits: A lot of the book is written in diary entries.
Next move: N/A
Well done, Melanie! 
Your choice brings you another 2 points in the Tic-Tac-Toe Challenge and the next move, X in A3, gives you the opportunity of choosing one of the following three tasks:
a) Discover stories that resonate with the essence of your homeland, offering fresh perspectives and insights into the world around you, by diving into a book set in the country you live in .
b) Explore the joys and challenges of friendship through the pages of captivating narratives that will warm your heart, by immersing yourself into a book featuring a strong friendship .
c) You know that neglected book from your shelf? The one you've always wanted to read but never really had time for it? Whether it's a long-awaited classic or a recent release that caught your eye, now is the perfect time to dive into a story that has been patiently waiting for your attention .
Which one will you choose? Happy reading!
Book:
Black WidowsAuthor: Cate Quinn
Date completed: 9/5/2024
Task: now is the perfect time to dive into a story that has been patiently waiting for your attention .
How it fits: I have had this on my shelf for a while and really wanted to read it.
Next move: Do I need to make a move now or after the next read?
Great job, Melanie!Congratulations, you've ended our first game of Tic-Tac-Toe in a draw and your choice brought you another 2 points in our challenge!
Since you were second in our first game, the first move in our second game is yours. Please take a moment and think about your move
Great move, Melanie! Your move invites you to chose one of the following tasks and embark on a reading adventure that speaks directly to you:
a) Read a book featuring a character who shares your profession , see how their experiences resonate with your own and enjoy the unique connection and insights that come with this shared career path.
b) Dive into the latest release or revisit a classic by your favorite author and enjoy the work of an author you love and trust to deliver an amazing story.
c) Let the beloved themes of your favorite genre provide a comforting and enjoyable reading experience.
Which one will you choose? Happy reading!
Book:
TrustAuthor: Chris Hammer
Date completed: 9/13/2024
Task: Let the beloved themes of your favorite genre provide a comforting and enjoyable reading experience.
How it fits: MPG Thriller; my favourite genre.
Next move: N/A
Well done, Melanie!
Your choice brings you another 2 points in the Tic-Tac-Toe Challenge and the next move, O in A1, brings you in front of the following tasks:
a) Explore the important and diverse topic of mental health . Whether it’s a memoir, a self-help guide, or a novel that delves into mental health themes, gain insights and understanding into the complexities of mental well-being.
b) Stay current with the latest literary trends by reading a book published this year . Discover fresh voices, contemporary themes, and the newest stories that the literary world has to offer.
c) Let your imagination soar as you explore what the future might hold by delving into a book set in the future .
Which one will you choose? Happy reading!
Book:
ImpostorsAuthor: Scott Westerfeld
Date completed: 9/17/2024
Task: book set in the future.
How it fits: Set in the future, doesn't specify the year but it involves hovercars instead of regular cars and talks about the Rusties mining all the metal out of the ground causing damage to the country.
Next move: C1 please.
Well done, Melanie! 
Your choice brings you another 2 points in the Tic-Tac-Toe Challenge and your move puts your in front of these three paths:
a) Hit the open road with a character who embodies the spirit of freedom and adventure, riding through life on the back of a motorbike . Feel the wind in your hair and the thrill of the ride as you journey alongside them through the pages of their story.
b) Trust in the wisdom of those who know you best, as you dive into the pages of a book recommended to you by one of your friends .
c) Immerse yourself into the tranquility and depth of the color blue as you as you explore a book with a blue cover .
Which one will you choose? Happy reading!
Book:
KindredAuthor: Octavia E. Butler
Date completed: 9/25/2024
Task: book recommended to you by one of your friends
How it fits: Recommended by a friend as I like time travel books.
Next move: N/A.
Well done, Melanie! 
Your choice brought you another 2 points in the Tic-Tac-Toe Challenge and the next move, O in A3, invites you to choose one of the following reading tasks:
a) Experience the joy and nostalgia of a story that once captivated your heart by revisiting a beloved book from your younger years .
b) Discover fresh voices and perspectives by choosing a book from an author you've never read before . Expand your literary horizons and enjoy the thrill of exploring new storytelling styles.
c) Dive into contemporary narratives by reading a book first published between 2020 and 2022.
Which one will you choose? Happy reading!
Book:
The DeepAuthor: Kyle Perry
Date completed: 10/1/2024
Task: book from an author you've never read before
How it fits: New author to me.
Next move: A2 please.
Just bumping this up as I think it was missed.
Hi Melanie, I apologize, notifications on Goodreads are not working for me since last week and I just realised that today.
Your choice of book brought you another 2 points in our challenge and your next move, X in A2, invites you to dive into one of the following adventures:
a) Experience the excitement of exploring different eras, the intriguing consequences of bending time and journey through time by reading a book that features time travel .
b) Read a book that has been adapted into a movie .
c) Gain insights and perspectives on pivotal moments that have shaped our world and dive into history by choosing a book that delves into an historic event of your choice .
Which one will you choose? Happy reading!
Book:
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s StoneAuthor: J.K. Rowling
Date completed: 10/12/2024
Task: Read a book that has been adapted into a movie
How it fits: Book adapted into a movie.
Next move: N/A
Well done, Melanie!
Your choice brought you another 2 points in the Tic-Tac-Toe Challenge, and the next move, O in C2, invites you to choose one of the following tasks:
a) Gain insight into new experiences, challenges, and triumphs by immersing yourself in a story with a main character living with a genetic condition or terminal disease .
b) Explore familiar landscapes, stories that resonate with your heritage and celebrate your roots by choosing a book written by an author from your home country .
c) Discover tales of perseverance by reading a book featuring a character who confronts significant adversity and challenges .
Which one will you choose? Happy reading!
Book:
Looking For EdenAuthor: Caroline Overington
Date completed: 10/20/2024
Task: book written by an author from your home country
How it fits: Author is Australian as am I.
Next move: B3 please.
Well done, Melanie!
Your choice brought you another 2 points in the Tic-Tac-Toe Challenge and your next move is inviting you to dive into one of the following reading tasks:
a) Explore the early 2000s by choosing a book published between 2000 and 2005 .
b) Reflect on recent history by selecting a book that explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic . Whether it's fiction or non-fiction, gain insights into the global event that has shaped our world.
c) Dive into thrilling and eerie tales that keep you on the edge of your seat by reading a book with MPG Horror that will send chills down your spine.
Which one will you choose? Happy reading!
Book:
Red Riding Hood Author: Sarah Blakley-Cartwright
Date completed: 11/23/2024
Task: book with MPG Horror
How it fits: Horror is the 10th tag on the main page.
Next move: N/A
Great job, Melanie! 
Your choice brought you another 2 points in the Tic-Tac-Toe Challenge and the next move, O in B1, invites you to dive into a unique reading experience:
a) Read a book featuring a fruit on its cover . From mysteries to romances, see where this task takes you!
b) Give a second chance to a book you didn’t enjoy in your younger years . Revisit it with fresh eyes and see how your perspective might have changed. It could be an enlightening and surprising experience!
c) Find a book featuring a feather on its cover . Enjoy the hunt for a book adorned with this delicate symbol and discover beautiful and intriguing titles.
Which one will you choose? Happy reading!
Book:
The Snow Child Author: Eowyn Ivey
Date completed: 12/12/2024
Task: Give a second chance to a book you didn’t enjoy in your younger years . Revisit it with fresh eyes and see how your perspective might have changed.
How it fits: Tried to read this previously but didn't like it/couldn't get into it, tried it again and loved it.
Next move: C3
Great job, Melanie! 
Your choice brought you another 2 points in the Tic-Tac-Toe Challenge and your next move, X in C3, invites you to choose one of the following paths:
a) Dive into a book that tackles a controversial topic of your choice , discover new perspectives and deepen your understanding of it.
b) Delve into themes of faith, morality, and human nature by reading a book with a priest as a main character
c) Get transported to new and exciting places by embarking on a literary journey with a book that chronicles travel adventures
Which one will you choose? Happy reading!
Book:
The Schoolteacher of Saint-MichelAuthor: Sarah Steele
Date completed: 1/12/2025
Task: Dive into a book that tackles a controversial topic of your choice, discover new perspectives and deepen your understanding of it.
How it fits: This book is about a resistance cell smuggling Jewish children out of Occupied France. It could be classed as a controversial topic as many argue that the Holocaust didn't happen but this book taught me about the brave men and women in France that did risk their own lives to help others.
Next move: N/A
Great job, Melanie!Congratulations, you completed the Tic-Tac-Toe Challenge!
Throughout the challenge you accumulated 38 points from the game moves and a bonus of 10 points for finishing both games in a draw!
As such, a total of 48 points have been added to your points account! Well done!
Bookish Challenges
Books mentioned in this topic
The Schoolteacher of Saint-Michel (other topics)The Snow Child (other topics)
Red Riding Hood (other topics)
Looking For Eden (other topics)
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (other topics)
More...
Authors mentioned in this topic
Sarah Steele (other topics)Eowyn Ivey (other topics)
Sarah Blakley-Cartwright (other topics)
Caroline Overington (other topics)
J.K. Rowling (other topics)
More...
Great to have you join the game!
In order to determine who goes first in your Tic-Tac-Toe Reading Challenge, I've got a thrilling selection of tasks for you to choose from:
a) Dive into the world of award-winning literature and discover a masterpiece that has captured hearts and minds.
b) Get your adrenaline pumping with a book that features fierce competition , whether it's in sports, games, or any other form of rivalry.
c) Continue your journey with a beloved series by picking up the second book and delving deeper into the characters and storylines you've grown to love.
d) Explore a book with "first" in the title and uncover stories that promise excitement, intrigue, and new beginnings.
No matter which task you choose, remember that every book is a gateway to adventure, knowledge, and inspiration. So grab your favorite reading spot, a cozy blanket, and immerse yourself in the magic of storytelling. Happy reading!