What Did I Read This Week?

Since I read way more things than I actually review I thought I would share those with you too.  I am a huge believer in not reading something that I don't like and I share that philosophy with my students, so here is where you will find the titles I didn't finish and why.  This is what I've read so far:


Death by Bikini by Linda Gerber:  I did finish this one, but it really didn't do anything for me.  I thought it would be funny and fluffy, but it just fell flat.  The mystery was too transparent and the main character was far too serious.  I would have to give it 2 out of 5 stars.  It was Just OK.


One Day and One Amazing Morning on Orange Street by Joanne Rocklin:  Still reading and hope to finish this weekend.  This is a Tween read that I think would make an excellent classroom novel.  The characters are well written and the plot is quirky and fun.  Expect a full review when finished!!


If I Stay by Gayle Forman:  I know I have been talking about this one A LOT - but it was just that good!!  Here is what I wrote on Good Reads after I finished:  Although I gave this book 5 stars I could never read it again. I can barely even get through a booktalk. This was the most emotionally devastating book I have ever read. It kept me up at night pondering all of the "what if's" and uncertainties of life. It had me convinced I would never let my children ride in a car again, especially if there is snow on the ground. In the end I do not think I would have made the same choice as Mia. I am not that strong . . . Teddy will haunt me forever. . 


The Lincoln Lawyer by Michael Connlley:  Everyone is talking about what a great movie this is, so I picked up the book last week.  LOVED IT!!!  Great plot with a ton of twists and turns.  I really liked the main character Mickey Haller, he wasn't as sleazy as he thought he was.  I did not see the twist at the end coming and I'm getting pretty good at figuring those out.  If you like courtroom drama this is definitely a must read!!!  4 out of 5 stars.  I loved it and I think you will too!!!


Crazy  Beautiful by Lauren Baratz-Logsted:  I found this book at a reading conference this winter and was surprised I had not heard of it.  I loved the cover and the story was intriguing: A boy with hooks for hands (because he blew them off in an accident), falls in love with a girl recovering from the recent death of her mother.  Unfortunately, it just didn't hold my attention.  I am very picky about the voice of teen characters.  They should not sound like adults trying too hard to sound like teens.  The story POV changes between the two characters, a la "Perfect Chemisty" by Simone Elkeles, but the magic that Alex and Brittany found is just missing for Lucius and Aurora.  I quit after the first two sections, but I might try it again.  The cover is just too enticing!!  I also plan on getting a student's opinion.  Just because I didn't like it doesn't mean they won't.


Numbers: The Chaos by Rachel Ward:  I am reading this one right now and LOVING IT!!!!  The first book, "Numbers," is an intense read, but this one takes it up about a million notches!!!!  I cannot wait to find out what happens!!!  Full review by the weekend!!


That is all I've had time for this week.  Hope my reviews were helpful!!


HAPPY READING!!!


Jen