Trashionista: February 2008

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February 29, 2008 4:27 PM

FRIDAY FLICK: Shakespeare In Love

Shakespeareinlove It is a windy and wet February 29th and I'm feeling a little blue... What better way to cheer myself up than with a filmic favourite? An incredibly romantic, well-acted filmic favourite, that's what!

Shakespeare In Love came out at the end of the nineties and enjoyed huge success. Gwyneth Paltrow wowed audiences and critics with her performance as the beautiful Viola De Lesseps (managing to shine despite the show-stealing turn from Judi Dench as Queen Elizabeth).

Shakespeare In Love has a fabulous screenplay by Oscar-winning writers Marc Norman and Tom Stoppard. It manages to be self-referentially funny, clever, and genuinely touching all at the same time.

The cast is star-studded with Geoffrey Rush, Joseph Fiennes, Simon Callow, Judi Dench, Imelda Staunton, and Ben Affleck, ably directed by John Madden (Mrs Brown).

Shakespeare In Love isn't just for English Literature students. It's a sunny smile of a film, filled with exuberant performances and good cheer.

Related posts: Friday Flick archives

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 29, 2008 in American Authors, Book related, Friday Flick | Permalink | Comments (0)

Top 30 rude writers

Something for the weekend? Nudge nudge, wink wink... Time Out has compiled a list of "London's 30 most erotic writers".

The list is depressingly light on female writers, though, with only three out of thirty: Molly Parkin, Mary Robinson and Lady Caroline Lamb. Surely women are better represented in erotic fiction than that?

Related posts: Erotic fiction on your 'pod | Book of the year lists

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 29, 2008 in Book related, Opinion | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK COVER: New Puffin Classics

Puffin Books have redesigned the Puffin Classics collection. Aren't they gorgeous?

But the pretty new covers aren't the only change, each of the twelve titles is introduced by a top author such as Sophie Dahl, Meg Rosoff or Louise Rennison.

Posted by Keris on February 29, 2008 in Book covers, Classic Novels | Permalink | Comments (2)

BOOK NEWS: Water Cooler Diaries

I love the sound of this book - hundreds of women sharing a day in their lives:

Go behind the scenes with a hot new fashion designer trying to keep her business afloat; a McDonald’s manager who is also captain of her pro football team; a government worker buried in paperwork; a trauma surgeon who has to piece together the pelvis of a teenager who forgot to wear his seatbelt; and a university librarian with four scheduled meetings and a child with a 103.4 degree temperature.

Plus there's a mix of, um, civilians, and celebrities like model Angie Everhart and “Go Fug Yourself” blogger Heather Cocks. Read more here.

Related posts: Go Fug Yourself book | First Kiss (Then Tell)

Posted by Keris on February 29, 2008 | Permalink | Comments (5)

BOOK REVIEW: Forget Me Not by Isabel Wolff

Reviewed by Helen Redfern

The cover of Forget Me Not by Isabel Wolff made me think the story was going to be a bit ‘wishy washy’. Neither the design nor the title does the book justice; they don’t look or sound promising, unlike the plot and the main character (who incidentally is nothing like the character drawn on the front).

Anna Temple is a former city career woman, who decided to swap her fast paced life for garden design after her mother suddenly died. On the night of her leaving do, she meets Xan resulting in Milly nine months later. Xan, with no sense of responsibility (so much so you want to throttle him) leaves soon after she breaks the news, for Indonesia, leaving Anna pregnant and having to raise their child alone. She tries to forget about her daughter's father and concentrates on putting her life back together.

This book is packed with subplots featuring a host of characters, including a nanny, a maternity nurse called Elaine with her nephew Jamie and a new man for Anna called Patrick. We also learn about Anna’s father and his new secret life as well as her new best friend, Jenny - why won’t she open up to Anna? There is also a ‘shocking’ family secret, which to be fair I saw coming. I think Jenny’s secret was also a little obvious which made me wonder why a seemingly intelligent woman such as Anna didn’t grasp things sooner. Despite this, I really enjoyed the book.

Wolff has created believable and real characters that you could envisage living around the corner from you and the story flows along well. It also has the unputdownable factor, so I did have a few late nights. There is plenty of detail for the book to come alive, including as an added bonus for any green fingered people out there, an array of gardening tips.

Forget Me Not is a realistic, enjoyable story, touching on a few sensitive issues, with a fully rounded leading character. Just open it up quickly and don’t dwell on that cover.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Solo by Jill Mansell

Posted by Keris on February 29, 2008 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 28, 2008 7:13 PM

BRAND NEW BOOK NEWS: The Celeb Diaries: Tears, Tantrums and Excess

Mark Frith, editor at heat magazine, has stepped down from his job in order to write a book called The Celeb Diaries: Tears, Tantrums and Excess.

Frith promises to dish the never-seen-before dirt (sorry, 'anecdotes') from celebrity culture. A behind-the-scenes peek from his days at the gossip magazine that will include the likes of Robbie Wiliams, Sharon Osbourne and the Beckhams. Cor.

[Via Bookseller]

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 28, 2008 in Book News, British Authors, Non Fiction, You heard it here first! | Permalink | Comments (4)

BOOK REVIEW: The Personal Shopper by Carmen Reid

Personalshopper The Personal Shopper of the title is Annie Valentine. A single mother of two children, Annie works at an exclusive London department store. She's also sick of handling absolutely everything on her own, and is looking for love.

Fashionista Annie is a very endearing heroine. She works hard - with property development projects and ebay selling as well as her main job - to keep her two children in a good postcode and private school.

Annie wants to better her situation and give her children an idyllic schooling (something she had just a small taste of when she was young). She is a brilliantly determined character and you can't help but root for her.

Carmen Reid has the magical light touch, coupled with humour and plenty of warmth. Even though The Personal Shopper is somewhat predictable - with a boss from Hell and dating woes - it's very readable, too.

However, one fairly major plot twist felt rather forced (and false), which spoiled things for me a little.

Still, the plot romps along at a good pace, making this a great beach read.

Rating: 3/5

Like this? Try: The Secret Dreamworld of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 28, 2008 in British Authors, Fashion-Lit, Rating: 3/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

A blog about bookshelves

Now I'm happy. You know how much I love bookshelves (you do, don't you?), well I've just discovered a new blog. Called simply Bookshelf, it does exactly what it says on the tin - it's a blog about bookshelves. [via Booktrade.info]

Like the Cave (above), which just makes me sigh with wanting, and the cut-out cat and bird shelving (very pretty, but doesn't actually hold that many books...). Also the bookstairs that Katie mentioned. I can see what I'm going to spend today reading...

Related posts: Me, Myshelf & I | Fold-down bookshelves

Posted by Keris on February 28, 2008 in Bookish products | Permalink | Comments (5)

GUEST BLOG: Lola Jaye

Lola Jaye's monthly blog on the road to publication...

Babble alert: So the first uncorrected proofs have arrived. And they actually look like REAL BOOKS. You know, with a back, front, middle, printed pages, picture on the back; basically REAL BOOKS!

They arrived at my place of work wrapped in a HUGE package. Savouring the moment as I opened them up, I smelt them and basked in the experience of seeing my first ever… book.

Okay, this is what really happened: I ripped open the package in front of a startled receptionist and couldn’t actually catch my breath as I set eyes on them for the first time. The receptionist asked what they were and I just said, "These are my books!!! Sort of."

"Wow!" she said. (Yet another person, I hadn’t yet told…). And she wanted to talk. Whilst I just needed to bask in ‘the moment’. Alone. So I finally went in search of a quiet corner. A bit tough as the office was packed and the corridor was full of workmen refurbishing the building.

Where to go?

I finally ended up in the staff toilets (hey, its private, there) where I was fully able to embrace my happiness, flick through and smell the pages. By the end of the day, the corner of my eyes began to ache because of all the smiling (and will probably need emergency Botox at some point).

I still refuse to get attached to the cover, as it’s not been agreed yet, but I have to admit the book’s looking great so far. Very nice. I handed them round to work colleagues like chocolate covered gold, and they swooned, whilst I continued to smile like a madwoman. And because they seemed incapable of not taking overlong peeps at the first few pages, I allotted a two minute ‘look per person’ because, as I kept reminding: “You have to wait until its published to read it.” (Plus, I need the royalties).

I have an ‘official’ picture (please see above) which will be appearing inside or on the book. Yes, I’m in the ‘pink’ again… I know. Ironically enough, I only embraced my true ‘pinkness’ as I got older – and I don’t think I’m alone in this, am I? Help me out here ladies..!

What else happened this month? My Writers News magazine piece has now been put online and you can read it here.

I also now have a Facebook page so feel free to add me as a friend (uh oh, this feels like being at school again…).

I’ve also been hard at work on the new book and that heady exciting stage of wondering if what I’ve written is complete tosh, has hit me again … Oh the joys of being a writer!

Until next month…

By The Time You Read This… By Lola Jaye (Harper) is out July 2008, £6.99 (eek!).

Read Lola's previous entries: November | December | January

Posted by Keris on February 28, 2008 in Guest blogs | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 27, 2008 7:08 PM

(Shopaholic) MOVIE NEWS: Hugh Dancy is Luke!

It's still not listed on IMDb, but the most recent newsletter from Sophie Kinsella seems to confirm it:

... the Shopaholic movie is finally underway! I have been in New York recently, attending rehearsals, talking to the actors, director and producers, and seeing the story come alive before my eyes... and it's given me goosebumps :) Isla Fisher, Hugh Dancy and Krysten Ritter are going to be SO fabulous as Becky, Luke and Suze.

Surely Sophie knows who's playing Luke?

Posted by Keris on February 27, 2008 in Movie News, Sophie Kinsella | Permalink | Comments (3)

Waterstone's The Writer's Year

Waterstone's wants to celebrate the most important part of the book-bookseller-reader cycle; the credit card. No. Not really. Waterstones will be celebrating The Author, of course.

With a variety of activities planned throughout 2008, both online and in-store, The Writer's Year kicks off with the Waterstone's Guide To Getting Published (here).

Related posts: A novel in a year | Virtual bookshops

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 27, 2008 in Book related | Permalink | Comments (0)

MOVIE NEWS: Suburban Girl... again

Did any of you watch the recent David Duchovny series, Californication? Duchovny played an author whose best-selling novel, God Hates Us All, is turned into a romantic comedy starring Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, with the title changed to Crazy Little Thing Called Love.

I was reminded of it when I saw this cover for Suburban Girl, which, you may remember is based on Melissa Bank's best-selling novel, A Girl's Guide to Hunting and Fishing.

Suburban Girl has gone straight to DVD, with the tagline "rewriting her dream in the big city" (I just can't *think* what they're trying to cash in on there!).

Posted by Keris on February 27, 2008 in Movie News | Permalink | Comments (1)

BOOK NEWS: Beginner's Greek

I was attracted to James Collins' debut novel Beginner's Greek because of... well, can you guess? Yep, the cover. Any book with New York on the cover will call to me. Put my favourite, the Chrysler Building, on there and I'm pretty much sold.

It sounds good too. It's the story of Peter Russell, who works for a prestigious financial firm on Wall Street, and Holly Edwards, who teaches Latin at a private girls' school. When Peter and Holly sit next to each other on a plane journey, "an intoxicating tale of romance, coincidence and thwarted plans starts to unfold".

But that's not why I'm telling you about it.

I'm telling you about it because it was reviewed in The New York Times Sunday Book Review. As Jennifer Weiner has pointed out on a number of occasions, the NYT doesn't review chick lit.

And yet the reviewer, James Caplan, describes Beginner's Greek as "Part comedy of manners, part chick lit in male drag ... a great big sunny lemon chiffon pie of a novel." (He also describes James Collins as "intelligent, rather aristocratic, ruggedly handsome", but that's another story.)

So it looks like chick lit. It sounds like chick lit. But it's not chick lit. Why not? Ah. Because it's too good:

One of the great pleasures of this novel — and what sets it quite apart from chick lit — is the sheer felicity of its prose. I am certain Collins could write virtually from birth, but as a middle-aged first novelist, he brings burnished style, wisdom and compassion to the enterprise. Speaking of the wrong woman Peter has married, the writer conveys in a single sentence — “He could not think of a single reason not to have married her” — a whole universe of wistful comedy.

"He could not think of a single reason not to have married her"? That's what sets it apart from chick lit?

One wonders just how much chick lit Mr Caplan has actually read...

Posted by Keris on February 27, 2008 | Permalink | Comments (1)

AUTHOR INTERVIEW: Pauline McLynn

Pauline McLynn is probably still best known as the fabulous Mrs Doyle in the much-missed Father Ted, but she's also a best-selling author. A review of her latest novel, Bright Lights and Promises, is coming soon. In the meantime here's an interview!

Please describe your latest book in 15 words or fewer:

What happens when you lie for a living, can't control your son and your mother comes to live (18 words and it doesn't BEGIN to cover it!!).

Where do you like to write your books (in bed, a coffee shop, an office)?

I am currently stuck to the kitchen table where I can spread out - we have been having dinner on our laps for months now...

Your favourite chick-lit book?

Anything by Marian Keyes

Your favourite female heroine (if different from above!), and why?

Scarlett O'Hara - indomitable spirit, gorgeous and a great dress sense.

What tips would you give to any of our readers who want to become writers?

Just do it, don't talk about it - there is no substitute for actually writing it down.

What are you reading at the moment?

My copious, scattered and sometimes illegible notes for my next novel - a painful experience.

What are you working on now? (If you can give us a hint!)

A novel about a woman with Alzheimers and her daughter

Do you have a theme song?

Depends on the day/mood/crisis that's in it

What question have you never been asked in an interview, but think you should have been? (Tell us the question and answer it too, if you like!)

There are plenty of questions I could have been asked, I guess, whatever about should have, but I am glad they remain unspoken ... hope this makes me sound a little mysterious (though I am not).

Thanks, Pauline!

Posted by Keris on February 27, 2008 in Interviews, Irish Authors | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK NEWS: The Secret Shopper's Revenge

Secretshoppersrevenge The Secret Shopper's Revenge by Kate Harrison is out on 1 May. It promises a twist on that chick lit stalwart - shopping.

Emily, Sandie and Grazia all turned to mystery shopping for different reasons, but they found they're good at it. They're Charlie's Shopping Angels, controlled by a mysterious figure who sends them assignments. But when they're sent to stitch up a shop owned by Will, the angels begin to feel divided loyalties...

Related posts: Fashion Lit | Book News

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 27, 2008 in Book News, British Authors, Fashion-Lit | Permalink | Comments (2)

BOOK REVIEW: Remember Me? by Sophie Kinsella

Reviewed by Deborah Riccio

It's not the waking up in hospital that freaks out Lexi Smart. It's the fact that she's got nails to die for, porcelain veneers, a glossy mane of hair, a Louis Vuitton handbag, she's Manager of a whole department ... and, oh yes, she's married to a drop-dead gorgeous millionaire husband.

The only drawback she can see is that she's aged three years. But then so has her mother and (not-so-now) little sister.

How the hell did all that happen?

And what happened to the last three years?

As she begins to read the Marriage Manual written by her practically perfect husband, Lexi begins to wonder whether she will ever miss her crooked teeth, frizzy hair, loser boyfriend, crappy job and poverty-lifestyle. Ah� and her best friends and co-workers who now seem to quite simply hate her.

What has she done? What�s happened? Who is that great-looking guy in the black jeans? And why can�t she find any bread or crisps when she so desperately needs them?

The incomparable Sophie Kinsella's latest stand-alone novel is an utterly believable suspended-belief story with endearingly drawn characters which I defy anyone not to want to devour in one sitting. From the first page you'll feel a part of Lexi's life and be urging her to find the answers she so passionately needs to start piecing together her missing years.

Rating: 5/5

Like this? Try Forget About It by Caprice Crane

Posted by Keris on February 27, 2008 in British Authors, Rating: 5/5, Sophie Kinsella | Permalink | Comments (8)

February 26, 2008 3:55 PM

TELEVISION NEWS: The Tenth Circle

Tenthcircle Wow, Jodi Picoult's work is certainly adaptation-friendly. In addition to a TV movie of Plain Truth and the Hollywood version of My Sister's Keeper, Lifetime has made a movie of The Tenth Circle.

It stars Kelly Preston, Ron Eldard and Brittany Robertson and it airs on television in June this year. Jodi has put a couple of photos from the set here.

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 26, 2008 in American Authors, Book related, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

Lani Diane Rich reads to you

You know I told you about Lani Diane Rich's new book, A Little Ray Of Sunshine, and how fabulous it sounded?

Well, the book is out now, but there's more... Lani has made a recording of herself reading the first chapter and it's available for download on her website. Thanks Lani!

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 26, 2008 in American Authors, Book related, Recent Release, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

BRAND NEW BOOK NEWS: Supergirl

Daphne Uviller's Supergirl, in which an overly-educated 27-year-old discovers that all the degrees in the world are no help when she becomes the superintendent of a Greenwich Village building whose former super was taken away in handcuffs. [via Publishers Marketplace]

Sounds a lot like Meg Cabot's Heather Wells series, don't you think?

Brand new book news archives

Posted by Keris on February 26, 2008 in You heard it here first! | Permalink | Comments (0)

HELEN'S HEROINES: Cannie Shapiro

Helen Redfern's weekly column about the fictional females she loves...

Candace Shapiro, more commonly referred to as Cannie, is the heroine from Jennifer Weiner’s debut novel Good In Bed. Happily beavering away as a writer of weddings for a Philadelphia newspaper, her life is thrown a curveball when her ex writes a magazine column about her being a ‘larger woman’ with him needing an ‘act of courage in our world’ to love her. This, quite understandably, plunges her into misery, bringing a lot of feelings she thought she’d conquered back to the surface and dramatically starting a chain of events that changes her life.

Cannie has similarities with the author. Both she and Weiner are Princeton Graduates, both were journalists in Philadelphia, both have a dysfunctional family and both have body-confidence issues. They also share the same fabulously ‘snarky’ (as Weiner describes it) sense of humour.

Cannie is bright, independent, sharp, and funny. She is ambitious; she had to be as her father left leaving the family with little money. She states that ‘With my college debts I was always scrambling for the next rung on the ladder…’ But she also has flaws and this is what makes her such a wonderful person. She is vulnerable. She quietly craves her fathers love and attention, only to be knocked back again and again. Her neuroses about her body stem from her father telling her that she was ugly, fat and hideous. It is little wonder she thinks so little of herself sometimes. ‘So here I am. Twenty eight years old, with thirty looming on the horizon. Drunk. Fat. Alone. Unloved. And worst of all a cliché, Ally McBeal and Bridget Jones together, which was probably how much I weighed…’ Even feeling at her lowest she still manages a sense of humour. But don’t be misled by this quote. She is nothing like Bridget (or Ally). She is bothered by her weight but her days aren’t consumed by number of calories eaten.

The main reason why I am inspired by her is summed up by her agent when describing the female lead in Cannie’s screenplay. “I loved that your lead character had such faith in herself. So many romantic comedies, it seems, the female lead has to be rescued somehow…by love, or by money, or a fairy godmother. I loved that Josie just rescued herself, and believed in herself the whole time.”

By describing the lead in the screenplay the agent is also, unknowingly, describing Cannie. Cannie achieves success and happiness despite her ex and her father. I can identify with her not only as a fellow writer, but as a woman and the journey that she goes on (not that any ex-boyfriend of mine has, to my knowledge, written about me). I am motivated by her almost to the point of leaving this book by my computer so I can see it and be reminded by her everyday.

Cannie’s life may have been changed by something out of her control. Initially she may have been made miserable by it. But she didn’t just roll over and accept it. On a rollercoaster ride she grabs the situation with both hands and turns it around into one big, huge advantage. All by herself.

The sequel to Good In Bed entitled Certain Girls comes out in April this year. I, for one, cannot wait.

Helen's Heroines archives

Look out for a special Jennifer Weiner giveaway in the next couple of weeks!

Posted by Keris on February 26, 2008 in Helen's Heroines | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW: Good Vibrations by Ayn Carrillo

Ayn Carrillo's Good Vibrations has been on my shelf for a little while, but I wasn't sure I was going to enjoy it. First there's the title. Then the subtitle - "One good girl's hilarious exploration of all things bad..." Funnily enough, I spotted the US version which is titled Pornology and has a much more sophisticated cover (see it over the cut). The US is often accused of dumbing down (the title of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone being changed to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone springs immediately to mind), but they're certainly winning in the chick lit cover wars!

Anyway, back to Good Vibrations. When Carrillo's boyfriend accused her of being "pornophobic" she made a list - she really loves making lists - a "Porn to do list" in fact. On the list were items like "meet a porn star", "visit a strip club", "test vibrators", "check out a brothel" and more. Here's a tip: if the previous sentence offended you, you're not going to enjoy this book.

I'm not easily offended and I enjoyed this book. Carrillo has a chatty and easy writing style, in particular she's good at writing about pretty full-on stuff in a lighthearted and informative way. Having said that, even though I'm no prude and am pretty open-minded about most things, there was one bit of the book that quite literally turned my stomach. Chapter 8. Not for the faint of heart or weak of stomach.

As is often the case with memoir, I didn't believe bits of the book, usually bits that were meant to be funny. There's also a relationship with a man Carrillo met in a sex shop running through the book and that didn't ring true either (although, judging by the acknowledgments, the man exists, at least!). Mostly Good Vibrations is an entertaining and informative addition to the sex memoirs that have flooded the market lately. (Ew. Now I've reminded myself of Chapter 8.)

Rating: 3/5

Like this? Try My Horizontal Life by Chelsea Handler

Posted by Keris on February 26, 2008 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Non Fiction, Rating: 3/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 25, 2008 10:14 PM

Book News: Where Demons Dare

Wheredemonsdare This news is especially for one of our regular reviewers, Angela Richardson: the sixth instalment in Kim Harrison's urban fantasy series about a bounty-hunting witch is due out in April.

Angela chose Rachel Morgan as her favourite heroine, and Where Demons Dare (published as The Outlaw Demon Wails in the US) certainly sounds like an exciting read. The bounty-hunter becomes the hunted, with no less than three hellions on her tail...

I must admit, I haven't read a great deal of supernatural chick lit, but considering how much I adore Buffy perhaps it's time I started...

However, the cover of Where Demons Dare isn't doing much for me. It looks a wee bit scary for my tastes. Stop shouting 'wimp' at the screen; I can't hear you.

Related posts: Supernatural archives

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 25, 2008 in American Authors, Book News, Book covers, Series, Supernatural | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW: Dangerous Admissions by Jane O'Connor

Dangerousadmissions Jane O'Connor has written a raft of books for children, but Dangerous Admissions is her first adult book. It's classic chick lit mystery with a gutsy heroine - single mother Rannie Bookman - a fantastic Manhattan setting and lots of romance and thrills.

Rannie is a freelance copy editor and part-time tour guide for the exclusive Upper West Side private school her son Nate attends (courtesy of her rich WASP ex-mother-in-law).

When the Director of College Admissions is found dead at his desk - and Nate is a suspect, Rannie turns amateur sleuth.

Unlike most chick lit suspense I've read, Dangerous Admissions is written in third person. As well as Rannie's point of view, we get insight into Nate's life and thoughts.

I also really liked the character of Olivia, Nate's friend and fellow Chapel School student. She has an older brother who is a recovering drug addict and another suspect for the murder.

Jane O'Connor's characterisation is truly excellent; the teenagers had distinctive, believable voices, and I really bonded with Rannie.

The plot is suspenseful, with lots of twists and turns, and there is a dash of romance, too.

A fabulous new sleuth on the chick lit mystery scene.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: Size Doesn't Matter by Meg Cabot

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 25, 2008 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK NEWS: Hadley Freeman video

Everyone loves Hadley Freeman, don't they? I've got her book, The Meaning of Sunglasses, on my bedside currently, but until I can finish it (and review it), here's this video of Shiny's Isabelle interviewing the fabulous Hadley about her book and more.

Posted by Keris on February 25, 2008 in Book News | Permalink | Comments (0)

Disraeli Avenue now available

We told you about Caroline Smailes' Disraeli Avenue last month, but I haven't had a chance to tell you that it's now available.

Go here to download it (you can also donate to One in Four UK).

Related posts: Caroline Smailes interview | In Search of Adam review

Posted by Keris on February 25, 2008 in Book News | Permalink | Comments (0)

MORE ON MONDAY: The Poison that Fascinates by Jennifer Clement

Reviewed by Sarah Hague

Some people have a morbid fascination with death, others with the means of death. Emily Neale, half British, half Mexican, collects facts about women who poisoned others. Abandoned as a baby by her mother, she's brought up in Mexico City by her father and Mother Agata, head of the orphanage that Emily's great-grandmother founded and where Emily now often helps out.

We hear that there are saints for almost everything in a devote Catholic Mexican society that is painted with bright, evocative words : the street sellers, the market sellers, the traffic, the smog.

Interspersed with Emily's story are the facts she collects about stories of women who have killed and why. Emily knows that some things are worth killing for.

Finally she meets her cousin Santiago from a remote farm in Chihuahua who has been watching her and disturbing her things.

Jennifer Clement has made a peculiar book sensuously palatable. Emily inhabits a small, restricted world of Mexican superstition, mythology and faith. Santiago changes that world forever bringing with him love and secrets.

It's a fascinating book written with masterful ease.

Rating: 4/5

Posted by Keris on February 25, 2008 in More On Monday, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 24, 2008 9:15 AM

BOOK NEWS: Yet another Jordan "autobiography"

Our reality TV sister site, Available For Panto, reminded me of this latest memoir by Katie Price (is she Katie Price? Is she Jordan?). I had seen it in Borders, but I must have blanked it out...

Yep, this is Katie's third autobiography and - guess what? - it's already out of date! See that cover? That's her old nose. And hair. And possibly (there's not enough of them on show that I can be sure) boobs. New, plastic surgery-related, autobiography coming soon. Probably.

Posted by Keris on February 24, 2008 in Book News, Celebrity Authors | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 23, 2008 9:22 AM

MOVIE NEWS: The full Sex and the City trailer

Enjoy!

Posted by Keris on February 23, 2008 in Movie News | Permalink | Comments (4)

February 22, 2008 5:01 PM

Books at bedside

You wait and wait for a bedside table that looks like a pile of books and then two come along at once...

The one on the left is Nightstand / Poetry by Marian Laššák, while on the right we have the prosaically named Pile of Books by Josefin Hellström-Olsson.

[via Apartment Therapy]

Which one's your favourite?

Related posts: Bedtime Stories bedding | Bibliochaise from Nobody & Co | The Self-Shelf

Posted by Keris on February 22, 2008 in Bookish products | Permalink | Comments (1)

PREVIEW REVIEW: Split By A Kiss by Luisa Plaja

Occasional Trashionista reviewer Luisa Plaja's first novel is out at the beginning of March (on the 6th, World Book Day, in fact). Luisa was my first crit partner a few years ago and while I'm still beavering away on the same book, Luisa's gone and got published. But I'm not bitter. No, I'm really not. Because Luisa is lovely and Split by a Kiss is wonderful.

It's the story of Jo who moves to America with her mum and soon finds herself kissing the school hunk during a session of Seven Minutes in Heaven. When Jo has mixed feelings about Jake's attentions - on the one hand he's hot and he seems to like her, on the other he's groping her and he barely knows her - she splits into two: Josie the Cool and Jo the Nerd.

The rest of the book alternates between Josie's and Jo's experiences. While Jo befriends school misfits, Rachel and David, Josie is sucked into the cool crowd, led by Chelsea, but the beauty of this book is that neither Josie nor Jo are stereotypes. Both of their paths show that there's no "right" way to be. Except for being yourself, that is.

But will Jo ever get to be herself again? You'll have to read it to find out. And, since Split by a Kiss is funny, inspiring, original, moving and sweet, you're in for a treat.

Rating: 5/5

Like this? Try Me vs Me by Sarah Mlynowski

Posted by Keris on February 22, 2008 in British Authors, New Releases, Rating: 5/5, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (3)

Best children's book of all time

A new survey by independent charity Booktrust has named The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis as the best children’s book of all time with The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle taking second place. (Apparently, The Very Hungry Caterpillar has sold one copy every minute since its publication in 1969!!)

I didn't read The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe as a child, but I did read it a few years ago and ... well, it's not my favourite.

Third place goes to Enid Blyton’s Famous Five Series. (Enid Blyton was my childhood favourite, but not this series - I was a Malory Towers girl, myself.)

Posted by Keris on February 22, 2008 in Book News | Permalink | Comments (7)

BOOK NEWS: Helping Me Help Myself

Helpingme Similar in scope to The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin, Beth Lisick's Helping Me Help Myself is about the year she spent following the advice of different self-help gurus.

It's just come out in hardback (Rubin might be a little gutted, as her book isn't out until 2009), and Beth has made some promotional book trailers. Hop over here to see them.

Related posts: The Joy Diet | Career Helium

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 22, 2008 in American Authors, Book News, New Releases, Non Fiction, Self development | Permalink | Comments (2)

FRIDAY FLICK: High Fidelity

Highfidelitydvd This week I'm going to revisit one of my favourite book-to-film adaptations, High Fidelity.

There was a great furore when this film was being made, because the director relocated the story from London to Chicago. I may even have joined in with the hand-wringing over the Americanisation. However, I, and the rest of the Hornby-loving world, need not have fretted...

High Fidelity is a triumph of a film. The script is witty, the characters just as quirky and brilliant as in the book, and, and this is such a big bonus, it stars John Cusack.

Jack Black and Todd Louiso are funny, but also touching, as the assistants in Rob's record store, and Iben Hjejle is perfect as Laura, the love of Rob's life (if only he could admit it).

Plus, it's got Joan Cusack (one of my all-time favourite actresses) as Laura's best friend, Liz, and Tim Robbins as the new-age new-boyfriend.

I just re-watched High Fidelity for this piece, but typing this makes me want to go and press play on the DVD again.

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 22, 2008 in Book related, British Authors, Friday Flick | Permalink | Comments (2)

February 21, 2008 6:35 PM

The Best of the Booker prize

A new, one-off prize has been announced to celebrate forty years of The Booker prize. Called The Best of the Booker Award, it will honour the best overall novel from the previous winners.

The public will be asked to choose from a shortlist of six books (created by a judging panel). The bookies have already picked Yann Martel's Life Of Pi as favourite to win.

Related posts: Booker Prize longlist | Carnegie Medal winners

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 21, 2008 in Book related, Prize Winners | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW: Smart Vs Pretty by Valerie Frankel

Smartvpretty Two sisters - one labelled the smart one (Frank) and the other pretty (Amanda) - are left running a Brooklyn coffee bar after the sad demise of their parents.

Unfortunately, a chain coffee house has opened next door and the cafe's finances are in dire straits. Enter Clarissa, a business studies student who offers to take on the coffee house (for free) as a project.

Not even the smart sister is suspicious, and Frank and Amanda start vying for Clarissa's friendship, while giving her free reign over their business.

Then, about a third of the way in, what had seemed to be a book about sibling rivalry and a 'Mr Coffee' of the week competition, abruptly transforms into a murder mystery.

Although sharply written, with plenty of great descriptions of the characters and the setting, this novel is just too uneven. Now, I love chick lit mystery, but this is one of those books that reminds you just how damn hard it is to get the balance right.

Characters and plot twists come thick and fast, but, unfortunately, these are so convenient as to appear farcical. Plus, the sisters are frequently TDTL (Too Dumb To Live).

Ultimately, Smart Vs Pretty is a missed opportunity. With a scaled-down plot and more attention given, instead, to the character development of the sisters, this would have been a far more enjoyable read.

Rating: 3/5

Like this? Try: One For The Money by Janet Evanovich

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 21, 2008 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Rating: 3/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK NEWS: Lost for Words trailer

Lorelei Mathias's trailer for Step On It, Cupid is the best book trailer I've seen so far, but this new trailer - an affectionate take on Woody Allen's Manhattan to promote her latest book, Lost for Words - comes a close second.

Posted by Keris on February 21, 2008 in Book News | Permalink | Comments (0)

MOVIE NEWS: Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist

Yes, I loved Rachel Cohn's Gingerbread and I'm intrigued by the sound of Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist, which she wrote with David Levithan, but I'm mostly interested in the forthcoming movie because it stars Michael Cera, who I lurve.

You know, he was George-Michael in the (sublime) Arrested Development, Paulie Bleeker in the (fabulous) Juno, and Evan in the (hit and miss) Superbad? Well, he's playing Nick and Norah will be played by Kat Dennings (who I don't know).

Related: Movie news archives

Posted by Keris on February 21, 2008 in Movie News, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (2)

BOOK COVER: Kits off!

Remember how Meg Cabot raved about this cover of Liza Palmer's Seeing Me Naked? Well, might this be why?

The cover of Meg's (fabulous) Size 14 Is Not Fat Either has the same "kit off" theme!

Thanks to reader Lisa for the tip-off :)

Posted by Keris on February 21, 2008 in Book covers | Permalink | Comments (5)

February 20, 2008 8:48 PM

MOVIE MAGIC: The Yiddish Policeman's Union

Michael Chabon (The Wonder Boys) and the Coen brothers in the same sentence? Yep, it's my dream come true. Well, one of my dreams. There's the one with Clooney and Depp and Cusack, but we'll gloss over that...

The Coen brothers are going to adapt Chabon's The Yiddish Policeman's Union. It's a tale set in an alternate-reality Alaska, with an alcoholic cop investigating the death of a heroin-addicted chess prodigy who may or may not be the Messiah. Can't wait.

Related posts: Movie Magic archives

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 20, 2008 in American Authors, Book related, Movie Magic, Movie News | Permalink | Comments (0)

AUTHOR INTERVIEW: Lesley Lokko

We're huge fans of Lesley Lokko's books here at Trashionista and here she is, answering our questions!

Please describe your latest book in 15 words or fewer:

Three girls from very different backgrounds search for a place to call home.

Where do you like to write your books (in bed, a coffee shop, an office)?

In my ‘office’ at home in Accra, overlooking the garden and the cashew-nut tree just outside my window. Bliss! Alternatively, in my study in Hackney, overlooking a fire station.

Your favourite chick-lit book?

Does Lace count? Or is that pre-chick-lit? If not, anything by Marian Keyes.

Your favourite female heroine (if different from above!), and why?

It’s got to be Hillela Capran in Nadine Gordimer’s novel, A Sport of Nature. I read it when I was in my early twenties and was absolutely taken by the story of a wayward beach girl who becomes a President’s wife, becoming so many things along the way…dancer, aid worker, revolutionary, lecturer…a real Renaissance woman, fearless in her choices.

What tips would you give to any of our readers who want to become writers?

Stick at it. Nothing compensates for hard work.

What are you reading at the moment?

I’ve got a fairly short attention span so I tend to read several things at once (though not simultaneously!). Next to my bed I’ve got Michael Ondaatje’s new novel, Divisadero, Madeleine Thien’s Certainty, The Welsh Girl by Peter Ho Davies, Theft by Peter Carey and The Mitfords, a collection of letters between the six Mitford sisters … a lovely Christmas present.

What are you working on now? (If you can give us a hint!)

A novel about four brothers and the women they bring into a wealthy, middle-class English family … a couple of cats amongst the pigeons in there!

Do you have a theme song?

Er, no.

What question have you never been asked in an interview, but think you should have been? (Tell us the question and answer it too, if you like!)

Q. What went through your mind when your father announced he’d just read your first novel?

A. Horror. How on earth had I acquired such in-depth knowledge about the birds and the bees…?

Thanks, Lesley!

Posted by Keris on February 20, 2008 in Interviews | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW: The Starter Wife by Gigi Levangie

I've wanted to read Gigi Levangie's The Starter Wife since I read an interview with the author in the Guardian and just thought she sounded fascinating. Plus then, of course, there was the TV adaptation of the book starring the wonderful Debra Messing. Well, I finally got around to reading it and it was worth the wait.

Gracie Pollock is married to studio head, Kenny. She's a Hollywood wife, with a Hollywood house, Hollywood friends and a Hollywood beauty maintenance programme. She's not happy, but even so she's shocked when Kenny summarily dumps her just before their tenth wedding anniversary, i.e. he "Cruised" her - ended the marriage before the date at which he'd have to pay maintenance.

At first Gracie is devastated. She hasn't just lost her husband, she's lost her entire lifestyle, because no-one in Hollywood is interested in a former "Wife of...", but thanks to the generosity of one of her "real" friends, she and her daughter are able to move, temporarily, to Malibu and start to rebuild their lives.

I really enjoyed this book. I could quite happily have read it in one sitting, so it would be a perfect plane or holiday book. It's got problems - the fact that the lead character is called Gracie and she has a gay friend named Will (and I was already picturing Gracie as Debra Messing), pulled me up every now and then. Also Britney Spears plays quite a major role in the book, which is unfortunate given her recent problems.

Some aspects of the plot (particularly Gracie's love interest) are also pretty unrealistic. But none of that really troubled me, because The Starter Wife is well-written, funny, and packed with Hollywood gossip (all the more credible because Gigi Levangie is married to Hollywood heavyweight Brian Grazer (producer of The Da Vinci Code, 24, and one of Time Magazine's 's 100 Most Influential People in The World).

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try You'll Never Nanny In This Town Again by Suzanne Hansen

Posted by Keris on February 20, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

COMPETITION: Writers' & Artists' Yearbook 2008

If you're an aspiring author, the Writers' & Artists' Yearbook might well be invaluable. Not just a useful directory of media contacts, including publishers, agents, magazines and newspapers, it also features advice from authors including Jane Green, Isabel Losada and a little-known children's author called JK Rowling.

And we've got one to give away!

To be in with a chance of winning, please email us at the usual address (you'll find it on the right side of this page under "Site Info"), subject line "Yearbook" before the 29th February. Please include your name and address otherwise, if you win, we won't be able to send you the book!

Posted by Keris on February 20, 2008 in Competition | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK NEWS: Mrs Perfect

Mrsperfect No sooner are we telling you that Jane Porter's Flirting With Forty is being made into a movie, but we've got some more Jane-related news...

Her latest book, Mrs Perfect, is out 5 May . It's about a control-freak wife and mother who loses the good life she has built so carefully. Take a sneak peek at the beginning on Jane's website.

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 20, 2008 in American Authors, Book News | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 19, 2008 8:10 PM

Classic romance comic-book-covers

Romanticcomics_175 Yes, again this would've been better posted on Valentine's Day, but what can you do? Entertainment Weekly has a selection of 25 classic comic-book romance covers for your delight and delectation.

Chosen from the golden age of pulp romance, this retro treat harks back to a simpler time; when the only lipstick was red and lines like 'my scandal-smeared love' were just the beginning...

Related posts: Women in comics | Avril Lavigne Manga

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 19, 2008 in Book covers, Book related, Romance, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (0)

HELEN'S HEROINES: Jane Rizzoli

Helen Redfern's weekly column on her female fictional faves...

Jane Rizzoli. 'Who’s she?' I hear you ask. This heroine is not as well known as some of my others. So let me introduce you to this character I only came across myself a year ago.

Jane Rizzoli is a Boston homicide detective in the Jane Rizzoli/Maura Isles series of books by Tess Gerritsen. These are hard hitting, graphic and a little gory, something I never thought I’d be interested in. I am officially a squeamish scaredy cat and could never, for example, read Stephen King. But after reading my first Tess Gerritsen book I was hooked. This partly because of the interesting and inspiring character that is Jane Rizzoli.

Jane is intelligent, insightful and as hard as nails. She’s a good cop and will not rest until she has caught the perp (that’s the perpetrator to you and me). She can be volatile and impulsive and indeed, particularly in the first book she appears in, she is initially brittle and not very likeable.

She has to work extremely hard as the only female in a male dominated homicide unit. Not only is she an outsider at work, she is also the only girl in a family of brothers. She is often the object of scorn and derision by her fellow detectives and her brothers don’t treat her much better either.

Dr. Maura Isles, a Boston Medical examiner, is a friend of Jane’s. They met on the job. Maura is the cool, calm and distant character based, in part, on the author. Jane is almost the opposite being, according to Gerritsen “hot tempered, passionate and painfully blunt.” She goes on to say, “Sometimes she infuriates me. (And infuriates my readers as well.) But one thing she never does is bore me.”

As the series of books progress we see Jane’s chip on her shoulder shrink substantially. She becomes softer and happier as her life changes. In the first book she appears in, The Surgeon, she played a secondary character that Gerritsen planned to kill off at the end. But “something stopped me … She’d grown on me. She had so much heart, she’d faced so many struggles, that to end her life there struck me as appallingly unfair. So I let her live. (And I’m damn glad I did.)”

So am I, Tess, because with Jane you have introduced me to a completely different genre of reading, one I never thought I would contemplate but has given me huge enjoyment (and has also spooked me on many occasions). For that I am incredibly grateful. Discovering Jane Rizzoli was a great reward for trying a different type of book.

Posted by Keris on February 19, 2008 in Crime / Mystery, Helen's Heroines, Series | Permalink | Comments (4)

BOOK NEWS: Mummy Said The F-Word

Mummysaidthefword Fiona Gibson has a hugely successful career as a magazine journalist. She used to edit More and Just Seventeen, and has written for Marie Claire, The Observer, Red, New Woman and Eve, amongst many others.

In addition to a non-fiction book on parenting (The Fish Finger Years), Fiona has written four novels. The latest, Mummy Said The F-Word, is out in hardback this week.

Firmly planted in the Mum Lit camp, it features Cait, a chaotic single mother of three.

Cait finds work as an agony aunt for a glossy parenting magazine and tries to balance parenthood with keeping up with her polished colleagues. Then she starts to correspond with a mysterious single dad, who signs his emails with the letter 'R'.

Is 'R' simply a fan, or is there something more brewing?

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 19, 2008 in Book News, British Authors, New Releases | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW: Waiting for Birdy by Catherine Newman

Have you ever fallen in love with a book? So in love that you just couldn't stop reading it. Or, if you had to stop, you'd be thinking about it and rushing to get things done so you could get back to it? That was me with Catherine Newman's Waiting for Birdy last weekend. (In fact, my husband was getting annoyed that I was talking more about Catherine's son, Ben, than our own son!)

Taken from Catherine's Babycentre blog, it's the story of gorgeous 3-year-old Ben and Catherine's mixed feelings about being pregnant with her second child, Birdy (don't worry, they didn't christen her that). Nothing dramatic or tragic (thankfully) happens, it's just the story of a family or, as the cover puts it "a year of frantic tedium, neurotic angst, and the wild magic of growing a family".

It's just a gorgeous book. It made me cry (repeatedly). It made me laugh (a lot). And sometimes it made me laugh until I cried.

Later that evening, we were all in the car together and a Cole Porter song came on. After we told him that it was called " 'S Wonderful" and that it was Ella Fitzgerald singing, Ben was silent for a while. "Like at the zoo?" he finally ventured, and Michael shot me a questioning look. "Like what?" I asked. "Like at the zoo. Like Elephants Gerald?"

Catherine articulates every single thing I've ever felt about motherhood. How joyful it is. How painful it is. How everything - everything - is bittersweet.

And the best thing is that, now I've finished the book, I've still got years' worth of blog posts to read! Highly, highly, recommended.

Rating: 5/5

Like this? Try Mama Lama Ding Dong by Ayun Halliday

Posted by Keris on February 19, 2008 in American Authors, Memoirs, Non Fiction, Rating: 5/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

Who's your Number One Perfect Chick Lit Hero?

Members of the Romantic Novelists' Association have voted Johnny Depp as the Number One Perfect Romantic Hero in a poll to mark Valentine's Day. (Yes, I know it was last week - but there's been so much to tell you!)

According to these authors, a romantic hero should be gorgeous, deliciously sexy, intensely masculine and have a commanding presence. Well. Yeah.

Carry on over the cut for the full Top 10.

The top ten male celebrities voted the Perfect Romantic Hero were:

1. Johnny Depp
2. Daniel Craig
3. Sean Bean
4. Richard Armitage
5. Hugh Jackman
6. Colin Firth
7. Alan Rickman
8. Pierce Brosnan
9. George Clooney
10. David Tennant

Interestingly, for me this highlights a difference between romantic fiction and chick lit, since I think only half of the men on the list would work as chick lit heroes.

I can see Hugh Jackman, Colin Firth, George Clooney and David Tennant (with Daniel Craig at a stretch) as the hero of a chick lit book. The other five? Not so much. No, not even Johnny Depp. Too grungy. (Although, you know, I still would...)

Of course, you may disagree! Who is your Number One Perfect Chick Lit hero?

Posted by Keris on February 19, 2008 in Book related | Permalink | Comments (8)

February 18, 2008 5:35 PM

BOOK COVER: If Andy Warhol Had A Girlfriend

Ifandywarhol While we wait for more news on Alison Pace's fourth book (provisionally titled City Dog, due out September), her publisher has kindly distracted us with a new cover for the reissue of her debut If Andy Warhol Had A Girlfriend.

I think it's brilliant - do you agree? I've put the old cover over the cut if you want to compare them...

If_andy_warhol_had_a_girlfriend_fro Here you go!

Related posts: Book covers archive | Alison Pace's books of the year

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 18, 2008 in American Authors, Book News, Book covers | Permalink | Comments (2)

MORE ON MONDAY: For One More Day by Mitch Albom

Foronemoreday Mitch Albom wrote Tuesdays With Morrie and The Five People You Meet In Heaven. For One More Day is the story of Charley 'Chick' Benetto a baseball player who spent six-weeks at the World Series and the next twenty years trying to relive the glory days.

He ends up drinking too much, alienating his family, and eventually trying to kill himself. On this darkest of days, something miraculous happens to Charley - he gets one more day with his mother (who died eight years previously). It's the fantasy of anyone who has lost a loved one; Charley gets to say the things he regretted not saying and just, well, spend one more day...

Like Alexander McCall Smith and Anne Tyler, Mitch Albom has the gift of keen observation coupled with beautiful storytelling. These writers know that the essential truths of human existence are too damn big; we need to view them through the small details of ordinary people and ordinary lives.

In the capable hands of Albom, Charley's story is told with a simplicity that borders on poetry and a kindness that can make you weep. I read it in one tearful sitting and I urge you to do the same.

Rating: 5/5

Like this? Try: Digging To America by Anne Tyler

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 18, 2008 in American Authors, More On Monday, Rating: 5/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW: Gingerbread by Rachel Cohn

I wasn't actually too excited to read Gingerbread, since a while ago I read the next book in the series and didn't enjoy it as much as I expected too, but Gingerbread was thrust upon me and I was urged to read it, so I did. And I was glad I did, because I loved it.

I was a bit worried as I started reading because Gingerbread reminded me so much of Weetzie Bat and I found myself worrying about who (if anyone) had ripped off who(m), but this only lasted a couple of chapters and then Gingerbread became a totally different book.

The heroine of Gingerbread is (fabulously) named Cyd Charisse. She lives in San Francisco with her parents, Sid and Nancy, and her younger half-siblings. Her real dad lives in New York, but she hasn't seen him for years. In fact, not since he gave her the doll, Gingerbread, who remains her best friend (even though she's really too old for a doll).

Following an ill-fated relationship with a boy at boarding school (and, frankly, an ill-fated relationship with boarding school itself), Cyd Charisse is home, dating surfer boy Shrimp and nurturing a secret crush on his brother. Her relationship with her parents seems to be irrevocably damaged by Cyd Charisse's behaviour, but she is seemingly undaunted, even planning to sue them for legal emancipation. Instead, her parents decide to send her to New York to get to know her father.

I describe Cyd Charisse as "seemingly undaunted" because she is much more damaged than she at first seems and this is what I loved about the book. Cyd Charisse at first comes across as tough and streetwise (do young people still say streetwise? I'm so old...), but by the end of the book she's a different person. I really liked her and found her very true to life (from what I remember of being a teenager...).

In fact, I loved it so much I'm going to go back and re-read the sequel.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Sloppy Firsts by Meg McCafferty

Posted by Keris on February 18, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Series, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (4)

First photo of Shopaholic movie

I know it's only tiny, but since it's the first photo from the eagerly-awaited Shopaholic movie, I thought it was worth sharing.

Yes, it's Isla Fisher as Becky Bloomwood. And, yes, it's being filmed in New York. We're just going to have to accept it. And there's still no announcement of who's playing Luke!

[via BuzzSugar]

Related posts: Shopaholic & Baby review | Sophie Kinsella in Second Life

Posted by Keris on February 18, 2008 in Movie News, Sophie Kinsella | Permalink | Comments (3)

February 17, 2008 9:24 AM

TELEVISION NEWS: Octavia

We picked Jilly Cooper as one of our Top 10 chick lit precursors on the basis of her "name" books and now I hear that one of those very books - Octavia - is being brought to life on ITV.

Tamsin Egerton is Octavia. Richard Coyle (who* I love) is Gareth. And Patrick Baladi (who* everyone loves, don't they?) is in it too. [via Phillipa Ashley]

*I think these "whos" should probably be "whoms", but I write the way I talk (mostly) and I would never say "whom"...

Posted by Keris on February 17, 2008 in Television | Permalink | Comments (2)

February 16, 2008 10:45 AM

MOVIE NEWS: Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants trailer

I love Ann Brachares' Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants series and I really loved the first movie. I can't wait to see the second (and, unfortnately, last) so I'm thrilled by this trailer.

What do you think? Will you be going to see it?

Posted by Keris on February 16, 2008 in Movie News, Series, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (1)

February 15, 2008 5:38 PM

First chapter of Certain Girls!

Ooh! Ooh! Jennifer Weiner has posted an excerpt of her new book - the follow-up to her debut, Good in Bed, don't you know? - on her blog (formerly called Snarkspot, recently retitled A Moment of Jen), with the rest of the chapter available to download.

I am so very excited.

Related: Certain Girls cover

Posted by Keris on February 15, 2008 in Book News | Permalink | Comments (0)

Jennifer Crusie, Lani Diane Rich and Anne Stewart podcast

We've recommended the Will Write For Wine podcast before, but this week's episode deserves a special mention.

Lani Diane Rich, Jenny Crusie and Anne Stewart get together at Jenny's house in Ohio and talk about collaboration (and wine, of course). Since Jenny and Anne worked together on The Unfortunate Miss Fortunes (with Eileen Dreyer) and they are all currently working on Dogs & Goddesses, they've got a lot to say...

What are you waiting for? Go listen!

Related posts: Podcasts archive | Crusie/Mayer writing workshop

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 15, 2008 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Podcasts | Permalink | Comments (0)

FRIDAY FLICK: P.S. I Love You

Psiloveyou I went to see P.S I Love You this week. It's adapted from the Cecelia Ahern novel, which I haven't actually read (gasp!)

Anyhoo, if I was a proper film critic, I would proceed to eviscerate this film. The tone is all over the place - pathos, comedy, tragedy, and slap-stick mixed up in a stomach-churning manner.

The book is set in Ireland, but the film is largely set in New York (no surprise, there) and Scottish actor Gerard Butler plays the Irish husband, Gerry, with a supremely dodgy accent.

The facts of Gerry's illness and eventual death from a brain tumour are glossed-over to get straight to the important business of Hilary Swank looking immaculate and wistful as Holly, the young widow.

The pace is a tad slow with constant flashbacks to the seemingly-perfect Gerry, and the Hollywood version of Ireland is laughable (Holly's new Irish love interest, William, sings in a pub, works on a farm and part-time as a coastguard. Okay, then.)

I would also say that the idea of a dying man setting up a load of letters for his future widow, with advice on getting on with her life like 'go and do karaoke' is one of those things that you will either view as desperately romantic or pathologically-creepy. I must admit I lean towards the latter...

However, despite its faults (or perhaps because I'm a soppy soul) P.S I Love You still managed to tug my heartstrings. I loved Lisa Kudrow and Gina Gershon as Holly's sassy best friends and Kathy Bates was brilliant as her mother. In fact, Hilary Swank really showed her true acting worth in a heart-breaking scene between Holly and her mother.

And yes, I cried. A little bit.

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 15, 2008 in Book related, British Authors, Cecelia Ahern, Friday Flick | Permalink | Comments (7)

MOVIE NEWS: Flirting With Forty

Jane Porter's books have been recommended to us both by a Trashionista reader and by author Megan Crane.

We haven't read any yet (there are TONS of books to read! We're doing our best!), but we were still excited to hear that Flirting With Forty is to become a movie starring Heather Locklear. Can't wait to see it!

Related: Jane Porter interview

Posted by Keris on February 15, 2008 in Movie News | Permalink | Comments (1)

BOOK REVIEW: An Offer You Can't Refuse by Jill Mansell

As I've said before, when I was a bookseller Jill Mansell was the author most recommended to me by customers, but somehow I've managed to go years and years without reading any of her books. Finally - finally! - I read one, her latest, An Offer You Can't Refuse, and I'm happy to report that all those customers were right.

It's the story of Lola Malone who, at the age of 17, is offered £10,000 to break up with her boyfriend ... by his mother. Lola is horrified. She is in love with Dougie and believes they'll be together forever. But then she learns a family secret, which forces her to take the money, leaving just a letter for her boyfriend.

After being forced to dump Dougie, Lola moved to Spain, but now she's back, working in a London bookshop and happy with her job and her friends, but, inevitably, she soon bumps into her ex ... and, unsurprisingly really, he has neither forgiven nor forgotten. Lola hasn't forgotten him either - and he's even foxier now he's that bit more mature - but can Lola convince him to give her another chance?

Well, if anyone can, Lola can. I loved Lola. She's bright, spunky, funny, honest and she doesn't take no for an answer. I also loved the secondary characters: Lola's best friend, Gabe, and Dougie's sister, Sally, but my favourite character was EJ, with his fabulously dry sense of humour.

Some aspects of the plot weren't entirely convincing, but the characters and the exuberance of the writing more than made up for it.

I'll definitely be reading more Jill Mansell in the future. My customers used to recommend Maeve Binchy too. Maybe I should give her a go...

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Solo by Jill Mansell

Posted by Keris on February 15, 2008 in British Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (7)

February 14, 2008 5:51 PM

Ex Libris table for book-lovers

Booklovertable_2 I just saw this table by MOCO on Inspire Me, Now!

The top is page-thin black-lacquered glass and the legs are metal book-stands. Speaking as someone who really needs more shelf-space, this is both practical and cutting-edge; what more could you ask for?

Related posts:The Self-Shelf | Me, Myshelf and I

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 14, 2008 in Bookish products | Permalink | Comments (1)

BOOK REVIEW: Janice Gentle Gets Sexy by Mavis Cheek

Janciegentlgetssex Okay, so Mavis Cheek is more women's fiction than chick lit, but she's also got a very dry sense of humour and a sly brand of observation that is snarkier than, say, Maeve Binchy. I urge you to give her a try.

Janice Gentle Gets Sexy is one of her older books (first published in 1993) but it's one of my favourites. It's very funny and Janice Gentle is a fantastic character. Plus, it's about a writer, which is a bonus in my book.

Janice Gentle, a reclusive romantic novelist, writes delicate novels-of-the-heart. She wants to make enough money so that she can stop writing and devote her attention to finding the man she loved and lost twenty years ago.

Unfortunately for Janice, her literary agent is an unscrupulous, money-obsessed tyrant, who keeps her fingers firmly stuck to the keyboard.

When Rohanne Bulbecker, a sucessful New York publisher, asks for Janice's help with a new idea, everything changes...

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: Miss Petttigrew Lives For A Day by Winifred Watson

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 14, 2008 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK COVER: Lookalikes

We've featured the Petite Anglaise covers before, but yesterday, while I was stalking the aisles of our local Borders, I spotted this new book - Can Any Mother Help Me? by Jenna Bailey. Similar, no?

The book sounds interesting though. It's the true story of a group of women in the 1930s who started a private magazine - "The Cooperative Correspondence Club" - to write about the subjects close to their heart: "the pain and elation of childbirth, the difficulties during wartime, or the struggles and comedies of daily routine".

Related posts: Book cover snap! | More book cover snap!

Posted by Keris on February 14, 2008 in Book covers | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK NEWS: Airhead

Ah, Meg Cabot. Yep, she's started YET ANOTHER series.

Airhead - out in June - is the story of Emerson Watts who ... listen, I can't even begin to explain it. Read the blurb over the cut. I promise you, it sounds amazing.

And check out the fantastic interview with Meg on Barnes & Noble.

EM WATTS IS GONE.

Emerson Watts didn't even want to go to the new SoHo Stark Megastore grand opening. But someone needed to look out for her sister, Frida, whose crush, British heartthrob Gabriel Luna, would be singing and signing autographs there-along with the newly appointed Face of Stark, teen supermodel sensation Nikki Howard.

How was Em to know that disaster would strike, changing her-and life as she'd known it-forever? One bizarre accident later, and Em Watts, always the tomboy, never the party princess, is no longer herself. Literally.

Now getting her best friend, Christopher, to notice that she's actually a girl is the least of Em's problems.

But what Em's pretty sure she'll never be able to accept might just turn out to be the one thing that's going to make her dream come true . . . .

NIKKI HOWARD IS HERE TO STAY.

Posted by Keris on February 14, 2008 in Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (0)

New York's Library Hotel

As if New York wasn't already the best city in the world, it's got a Library Hotel!

The Library Hotel is the first hotel ever to offer its guest over 6,000 volumes of books organized throughout the hotel by the Dewey Decimal System. Each of the 10 guestroom floors honor one of the 10 categories of the DDC and each of the 60 rooms are uniquely adorned with a collection of books and art exploring a distinctive topic within the category it belongs to.

Oh my.

[via Petit ver epicurien de livre]

Posted by Keris on February 14, 2008 in Book related | Permalink | Comments (2)

February 13, 2008 3:01 PM

MOVIE NEWS: More My Sister's Keeper news

Yet more casting news for the film of Jodi Picoult's mega-selling hit, My Sister's Keeper.

Remember I told you that the Fanning sisters (Dakota and Elle) would be playing the sisters? Well, they have pulled out of the project. The rumour is that Dakota didn't want to shave her head for the role, but who knows what the truth is?

All I can reveal is that the wonderful Abigail Breslin - who was simply brilliant in Little Miss Sunshine - has been cast as the younger sister. Also, Sofia Vassilieva, who I must admit I've never heard of, will play the older sister.

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 13, 2008 | Permalink | Comments (0)

Writers go back to work

Yay! An agreement has been reached and the 100-day Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike is officially over. A back-to-work order was approved by 92.5% of the WGA members.

The Oscars ceremony can now go ahead as planned, TV shows such as House and CSI will be back in production, and, most importantly, writers get a fairer payment deal for their work.

[Via Variety]

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 13, 2008 in Movie Magic, Movie News, Opinion, Television | Permalink | Comments (2)

BOOK REVIEW: Vampires Are Forever by Lynsay Sands

Reviewed by Angela Richardson

Vampires Are Forever is the sequel to The Accidental Vampire - one of the Argeneau vampire novels by Lynsay Sands. This book is the latest in her series and provides just as much entertainment as her last one.

Inez Urso has worked hard to get to the top of her profession, but her social life has suffered as a consequence. When she is called out to baby-sit Thomas Argeneau she begins to have doubts about her whole career. After all the whole Argeneau family that she is employed by seem to have an allergic reaction to the sun, excellent night vision, and not much appetite for food. Plus Thomas has just tried to bite her neck… but maybe that was just a sign of passion.

Thomas on the other hand, has been waiting forever for a woman like Inez… well, if not forever, at least two hundred years. She’s the most beautiful woman he’s seen in centuries. He couldn’t resist the temptation of just one little bite. Now Thomas will do anything to convince her that only an immortal like him can make her happy.

Yet again this is a great romantic comedy with a large dash of fantasy. The mystery of the missing grandmother that they have to solve adds a lot more depth and tension to this book than her previous novels and as a result this was very gripping. However, Sands never loses the humour in her stories, which makes this book an irresistible combination.

She has also ended this book on a bit of a cliffhanger that is apparently the main plot of the next in the series (although I’ve only read the sneak preview at the end of the book). I’m afraid if you start reading the Argeneau series you’ll be addicted, but it’ll pass many a rainy afternoon, as there are quite a few books for you to catch up on. Plus unlike many it doesn’t really matter what order you read them in.

Rating: 5/5

Like this? Try The Accidental Vampire by Lynsay Sands

Posted by Keris on February 13, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 5/5, Series, Supernatural | Permalink | Comments (2)

ShinyGloss meets Melissa Walker

Our glamorous sister site, ShinyGloss, met author Melissa Walker in New York recently.

Melissa was there to sign copies of the follow-up to Violet on the Runway, Violet by Design.

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Posted by Keris on February 13, 2008 in Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (1)

AUTHOR INTERVIEW: Donna Storey

I read and loved Donna Storey's Amorous Woman a while ago and Donna was kind enough to answer our questions:

Please describe your latest book in 15 words or fewer:

Amorous Woman is about (start counting words here, please!): a woman's love affair with Japan, rather like Memoirs of a Geisha with more sex.

Where do you like to write your books?

Mostly at my computer in my creatively untidy sun porch office, but key revisions happen on my sofa with a cup of cinnamon spice tea.

Your favourite chick-lit book?

Mary McCarthy's The Group. It's chick lit at its finest, which for me is like spending time with one of my best girlfriends - I laugh a lot, learn a lot about life and end up feeling understood.

Your favourite female heroine (if different from above!), and why?

Melanie Hamilton from Gone With the Wind. We only know her through Scarlett's eyes, and she of course is too busy lusting after Ashley to see straight. I know there are societies and foundations to rehabilitate Richard III's reputation. I think we need one for Melanie, too.

What tips would you give to any of our readers who want to become writers?

Follow your passion. If a writer finds her subject fascinating or uncanny or terrifying or touching, that excitement translates to the page and then to the reader. Unlike orgasm, it's impossible to fake a compelling story.

What are you reading at the moment?

Pattie Boyd's memoir Wonderful Tonight. Pattie was indeed one of the most beautiful birds of Britain in the glamorous 1960s, but her experiences as the main squeeze of rock's greatest talents weren't so pretty.

What are you working on now?

An erotic romance novel that is a peek through the bedroom keyhole of American history in the 20th century. There's something sexy about more repressed times and I'll pay homage to Sally Rand, the famous 1930s burlesque dancer, Bettie Page and camera clubs in the 1950s, John Updike's spouse-swapping suburbia and lots more. [This sounds amazing! - Keris]

Do you have a theme song?

"When Am I Going to Make a Living" by Sade. I'm definitely hungry, but I won't give in - most of the time.

What question have you never been asked in an interview, but think you should have been? (Tell us the question and answer it too, if you like!)

"Well, Storey-san, how does it feel to have been awarded a Medal of Honor from the government of Japan for your skillful adaptation of their erotic classic in your novel, Amorous Woman, and your extraordinary contribution to international understanding and good will?"

"It feels great, thanks."

Thanks, Donna!

Posted by Keris on February 13, 2008 in Interviews | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 12, 2008 5:36 PM

HarperCollins to give freebies

HarperCollins has launched a new scheme that will see complete books available online for free for a limited time (a month per title).

The publisher is interested in seeing how free access to the texts affect sales. Two of the confirmed authors in the scheme are Neil Gaiman and Paolo Coelho.

Gaiman is no stranger to offering his words for free. He keeps a wonderful blog, and has some stories on his website. He explains that it is about finding new readers. He said: "I very much doubt that I discovered a single one of my favourite authors by buying a book."

Related posts: Harper Teen FanLit | Stardust by Neil Gaiman

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 12, 2008 in Book News, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors | Permalink | Comments (1)

BOOK NEWS: My Favourite Wife

Myfavouritewife Love him or loathe him, Tony Parsons is joint-reigning king of Lad Lit (with Nick Hornby). His latest offering, My Favourite Wife, is out in hardback on 18 February.

Apparently, it's a sizzling tale of sex, romance and second-wives, set in Shanghai. I have found Tony Parsons to be quite hit-and-miss, but the fab cover of this one is certainly swaying me...

Related posts: Top 10 Lad Lit | Lad-lit blogs

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 12, 2008 in Book News, Book covers, British Authors | Permalink | Comments (3)

Ebury's Room to Read competition

Katie at Ebury Publishing has just bought a new house and is looking for inspiration for a reading room of her own, but don't worry, there's something in it for you too!

Email a photo of your reading space before the closing date of midnight GMT February 15th 2008 (that's this Friday) for the chance to win a hamper of fifteen books from Ebury. More info (plus the obligatory terms and conditions) here.

Posted by Keris on February 12, 2008 in Competition | Permalink | Comments (1)

HELEN'S HEROINES: Roberta from The Railway Children

Helen Redfern's weekly column on the fictional females she loves...

Roberta or, as everyone else calls her, Bobbie. Yet another character whose name has been shortened to sound more masculine. In Bobbie’s case I suspect this is purely for convenience – her sister Phyllis is shortened to Phil – but she does state just the once that she wishes she were a boy. Doubtless so she would feel braver than she was at the time.

Bobbie is the eldest of three “ordinary suburban children … they lived with their Father and Mother in an ordinary red-brick-fronted villa…” in London. Their lives were very happy but they didn’t realise how lucky they were until one day in 1905 when their Father was arrested and they had to move to a small cottage in the country. Fortunately their new house was right next to the railway line and so began their adventures watching and waving to the trains, meeting The Old Gentleman, Perks the porter and all manner of characters from around the village.

Roberta is a girl growing into an adult. She is acutely aware of her Mother’s feelings. She knows she is sad, keeping up a facade in front of the three children and tries hard to make sure they argue less and do their chores without being asked. When her Mother is quite poorly it is Roberta who becomes head nurse, looking after her day and night, making herself tired in the process but without complaint.

The three children are praised for their heroism. When there is a land slide the girls take off their red petticoats to warn the fast approaching steam train of danger; when they see smoke appearing from a canal barge they jump onboard to save the sleeping baby and when they see a paper chase go into the tunnel and the last boy not appearing out the other end they go and investigate. It is Bobbie who nurses him until help arrives in the dark tunnel whilst the boy struggles to remain conscious. Despite her leadership qualities (though all three of them play important roles) it is Bobbie that hates the fuss and attention their heroism receives.

As E. Nesbit has indicated, Bobbie is anxious to make others happy and to look after them. This is apparent in her (naïve) statement “I think it would be nice…to marry someone very poor, and then you’d do all the work and he’d love you most frightfully…”. She can keep secrets and is silently sympathetic to other people’s troubles they don’t wish to talk about. Yet her mind is actively thinking how she can help especially when she finds out where her Father really is. At times she acts grown up and at other times there is childlike innocence about her. Who hasn’t shed a tear at the line “Oh! My Daddy, my Daddy!”?

Bobbie has empathy and female intuition in a quiet understated manner. She is exceptionally capable and supportive, always looking to help others. Life is hard for her but she carries on cheerfully. As Nesbit herself summarises “the more I observe her the more I love her.” Quite.

Related posts: Jane Marple | Nymphadora Tonks

Posted by Keris on February 12, 2008 in Classic Novels, Helen's Heroines | Permalink | Comments (3)

BOOK REVIEW: Midori By Moonlight by Wendy Nelson Tokunaga

I know I'm shallow, but I was mainly attracted to Midori By Moonlight because of the cover: moonlight, cupcakes and a cute outfit on the illustration! Also I love the title and the book is set in San Francisco, one of my favourite cities.

Fortunately, the book is just as cute as its cover. Midori moves from Japan to marry Kevin, an American she met out there. Unfortunately, Kevin reignites an old flame at his and Midori's engagement party, leaving Midori both heart-broken and stuck in San Francisco without a visa.

Desperate not to return to Japan - obsessed with US culture, Midori had planned to stay in San Francisco forever - Midori calls a Japanese friend of Kevin's, Shinji/Sean, who, as luck would have it, needs a room-mate.

Midori still has the problem of finding a job without a visa. She wants to be a pastry chef, but soon resorts to working in a "hostess bar". And of course she can't tell her parents - not about the lack of a wedding, the living with a strange man, and certainly not her job - they never wanted her to go to the US in the first place (although they did want her to get married and had been in the process of arranging a marriage for her when she met Kevin).

I loved this book. More like a fairy story than a realistic portrayal of the illegal immigrant experience (I doubt many illegal immigrants have it as easy as Midori), it's charming, sweet, funny and gripping and Midori is lovely and I was rooting for her from page one. Plus there's San Francisco, cupcakes and moonlight. I can't wait to read Wendy Nelson Tokunaga's next book.

Rating: 5/5

Like this? Try The Perfectly True Tales of a Perfect Size 12 by Robin Gold

Posted by Keris on February 12, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 5/5, Recent Release, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

BRAND NEW BOOK NEWS: The Nobodies Album

I loved Carolyn Parkhurst's first novel, Lorelei's Secret (called The Dogs of Babel in the US) and her second, Lost and Found, was highly recommended by Jennifer Weiner.

Parkhurst's third book, The Nobodies Album, won't be out until Spring 2010, but it sounds great. It's about a former bestselling novelist who has re-written the endings to all of her novels and in doing so, has removed clues about her personal life that had been hidden within. When her estranged, rock star son is accused of murder, she endeavors to find out the truth: about the murder, and about the secrets of their shared past.

This news reminded me to check for an update on the Dogs of Babel movie, but apart from the fact that it's to be directed by Todd "Old School" Phillips, nothing doing.

Posted by Keris on February 12, 2008 in You heard it here first! | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 11, 2008 5:22 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Seeing Me Naked by Liza Palmer

Seeingmenaked_2 I've already mentioned how much I love the US cover (shown) of Liza Palmer's Seeing Me Naked, so you can imagine how excited I was to receive the US version for review (it's not out in the UK until 20 March).

Elisabeth Page lives in the shadow of her legendary novelist father, Ben Page, and hip literary adonis brother, Rascal.

Trying desperately to avoid comparisons with her stellar family, she carves her own successful career as a head pastry chef at a top LA restaurant. Naturally, this isn't up to her father's exacting standards, and even Elisabeth has started to wonder what happened to her five-year-plan to start her own patisserie.

Elisabeth feels both trapped and safe in a life that she orders with military precision. Still, there isn't enough routine in the world to protect Elisabeth from herself and she finds that fearing her father and craving his approval is a hangover from childhood that just won't go away.

Then, she meets Daniel Sullivan. A beer-drinking basketball coach who, most certainly, will not meet her family's expectations. Can she let herself fall for this kind, loving man? Can she drop the smart-talking, hyper-critical Elisabeth and let Daniel know - and love - the real her?

Sharp, witty and with a convincing, captivating, cast of characters, Seeing Me Naked is a fantastic read. I hope Liza Palmer is a workaholic like Elisabeth, as I can't wait to read her next book...

Rating: 5/5

Like this? Try: Heartburn by Nora Ephron

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 11, 2008 in American Authors, New Releases, Rating: 5/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

Sophie Kinsella in Second Life

I still don't understand Second Life, but I guess I don't have to.

On Sunday, 2 March at 5PM EST, Sophie Kinsella will be appearing at The Amphitheatre on Bantam Dell Island.

There she will read from her new novel, Remember Me? and take questions from readers. You'll even be able to dress her avatar. Dress her avatar?! Seriously. What on earth is Second Life all about?!

Click here for the full details.

Posted by Keris on February 11, 2008 in Sophie Kinsella | Permalink | Comments (1)

BOOK NEWS: Attack of the Theater People

I crowned Marc Acito an honourary chick litter because I loved his first novel, How I Paid For College - so flippin' much.

And while I'm very excited to read his new book, Attack of the Theater People, the cover really scares me...

Related posts: My Lucky Star by Joe Keenan | More book covers

Posted by Keris on February 11, 2008 in Book News | Permalink | Comments (0)

MORE ON MONDAY: Dirty Martini by JA Konrath

I've heard great things about JA Konrath, but fewer than 50 pages in I had to stop reading. There were poisoned nails set as booby traps ... fear, carnage ... *shudder* ... I had to stop reading. So I gave it to my husband to review...

Reviewed by David Stainton

Forgive me, but when I inevitably discovered that 'J A' stood for Joseph Andrew, meaning the sexy, kick-ass Lieutenant Jacqueline "Jack" Daniels was created by a nerdy-looking forty something bloke, it put me off the book before I'd even given it a chance. Irrational I know, but I can't put it out of my head. It's probably what Victorian readers of Middlemarch felt when they discovered George Elliot wasn't a forty-Woodbine-and-ten-pints-of-ale-a-day fella.

That apart, I was left feeling unsatisfied as a whole at the end of the book. Putting aside my wavering suspension of disbelief about the whole plot, which revolves around a mad sociopath poisoning half of Chicago, and Daniels apparently having to solve the whole case by herself, it just wasn't thrilling enough for a thriller, suspenseful enough for a mystery, or funny enough for a comedy.

The writing is sharp enough, and if Konrath had concentrated on the investigation, without throwing in cliched hokum around ex-partners, both professional and personal then I could have cared more about the outcome. Unfortunately I didn't care enough to overlook the fact that once more than a dozen people had died horribly then the city would have been shut down till the murderer was caught.

As it is, Daniels lurches from one near-fatal encounter with her nemesis to the next, leaving a trail of dead cops and civilians in her wake. And the fact that she didn't see the blindingly obvious link to the killer which is revealed in order to lead her to the final showdown offends me as a fellow member of the law enforcement community. Sorry, but Jack Daniels left a funny taste in my mouth...

Rating: 2/5

Like this? Try One For the Money by Janet Evanovich

Posted by Keris on February 11, 2008 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Rating: 2/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (1)

Mills & Boon turns to crime

Mills & Boon is launching a crime and thriller series. Called Black Star Crime, the series will span everything from cosy crime to chilling thrillers, and five titles will be published every two months.

Mills & Boon is going to apply the principle of consistency that has served them so well in the romance market. Oliver Rhodes, marketing manager, explains: "The idea is that if people find something they like they can go back and find something similar. It is a brand promise.”

[Via Bookseller]

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 11, 2008 in Book News, Crime / Mystery | Permalink | Comments (1)

February 10, 2008 9:28 AM

TV & MOVIE NEWS: I Was a Teenage Popsicle

Bev Katz Rosenbaum has announced that her young adult book, I Was a Teenage Popsicle, has been optioned for film and TV. (The plan is to produce it as a film then spin it into a series.)

For any writers reading (and I know there are lots of you), this came about as the result of Bev sending a copy of her book to the production company after watching one of their shows and realizing the tone was similar to her book!

Bev's advice is to take note of which shows and indie movies are similar to your books and send the producers (you can almost always find the production companies' websites on the net) a copy of your book along with any endorsements/reviews (good ones would probably be best...).

Great advice and good luck, Bev!

Posted by Keris on February 10, 2008 in American Authors, Movie News, Series, Television, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (5)

February 9, 2008 9:15 AM

BOOK NEWS: First Kiss (Then Tell)

Ah, I remember my first kiss. It was in an alley. His lips tasted, inexplicably, of Swizzles. It was disappointed. And not only was it my first kiss, it was my last for about ten years...

Anyway, in First Kiss (Then Tell), 25 bestselling authors for teens recount the story of their first kiss. Authors include Deb Caletti, Justine Larbalestier, David Levithan, Alyson Noel, and Scott Westerfeld.

Posted by Keris on February 9, 2008 in Book News | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 8, 2008 4:38 PM

Jamelia to write autobiography

It seems publishers still love a celeb autobiography and, as ever, having lived a long and interesting life is not a requirement. Orion has signed 27-year-old pop star Jamelia to write an "inspirational account" of her rise to success.

Okay, perhaps I am being a little harsh... Apparently Jamelia will explain how “others can escape from difficult circumstances to achieve their dreams”. So that's nice.

[Via Bookseller]

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 8, 2008 in Book News, Celebrity Authors, Memoirs | Permalink | Comments (0)

FRIDAY FLICK: Music and Lyrics

Musicandlyrics Music and Lyrics isn't adapted from a novel, but it is about the creative process. And it's a delightful romantic comedy that will brighten up your Friday evening.

Alex Fletcher is a likeable, self-deprecating former pop star who ekes out a living on the eighties nostalgia circuit. He hires Sophie Fisher to water his plants while he's away.

Then Alex gets an exciting opportunity: Cora, a successful pop starlet wants him to write her a new song. The catch? He's only got four days to do it in...

Luckily, Alex discovers that Sophie has a flair for writing lyrics and he convinces her to help him. Okay, that sounds pretty contrived, but the film quickly focuses on the interplay between the characters and does so very well.

The leads (Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore) are an absolute delight to watch and the characters well-developed. The supporting characters and actors are fantastic, too, rounding out the film nicely. Haley Bennet plays the Shakira-like starlet in a hilarious dead-pan manner, while Kristen Johnston is Sophie's wise-cracking big sister.

Also, this may be the most likeable role I have ever seen Hugh Grant in. There is nothing quite so endearing as a man who is willing to laugh at himself.

In fact, the hilarious video of Alex Fletcher's eighties pop hit - 'Pop Goes My Heart' - is worth the price of the DVD alone...

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 8, 2008 in Friday Flick, Movie Magic | Permalink | Comments (5)

BOOK REVIEW: Barefoot by Elin Hilderbrand

Reviewed by Helen Redfern

The story of three women and their young, male babysitter unfurls during the hot summer in Nantucket. All of them have a story. Vicki has lung cancer, Brenda, Vicki’s younger sister is in disgrace after having an affair with one of her students and Melanie, Vicki’s friend, is newly pregnant with a long fought for baby, only to discover her husband is having an affair. Josh is a twenty one year old writing student on his summer holidays in the right place at the right time.

Vicki and Brenda have inherited a little cottage on the island so have decided to spend the summer there whilst Vicki has her chemotherapy treatment and Brenda sorts herself out emotionally whilst also writing a screenplay. Their mother firmly believes that a bit of sand from Nantucket lying between your bare feet soothes and solves all manner of problems.

This isn’t a fast paced, catch your breath book. It is gentle and slow as we go on a touching journey with the three women and Josh. Emotions are long drawn out and tense at times, making you want to read on quickly to see what happens at the end of the summer. We look into the recent past of the three women and watch as they deal with their issues and come to terms with them.

The women’s characters are displayed warts and all, my only issue was that I saw too many of their faults to truly care for them. The woman I cared for least was Melanie. I thought she was a bit daft, but then her hormones were all over the place and she was in shock because of her cheating husband so perhaps that’s why.

Reading this during dark and dismal January made me look forward to summer. It would be great to read on the beach when you are quite literally barefoot feeling the sand between your toes.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Still Summer by Jacquelyn Mitchard

Posted by Keris on February 8, 2008 in American Authors | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW: Career & Corporate Cool by Rachel C Weingarten

I wasn't sure that Rachel C Weingarten's Career and Corporate Cool would be much use to me. I work for myself so the "corporate" doesn't apply. The book is subtitled 'How to look, dress, and act the part - at every stage of your career' and since I work from home, often in my pyjamas, I didn't think Weingarten had anything to teach me in that area either. As is often the case ... I was wrong.

This book is packed with a lot of advice that you've probably already heard if you've ever read a women's magazine, but it feels somehow much more up to date. It includes questions on how to define your own personal style and then to use this in every area of your professional life.

Containing advice on everything from dress and make-up to behaviour inside and outside the office to the differences between masculine and feminine work styles and how to gracefully handle emergencies, Weingarten covers pretty much everything you'll ever need, no matter what your job. The abundance of post-its sticking out of my copy suggest it's just as useful if you work for yourself.

It's not at all stuffy or preachy, in fact it's entertaining, often funny and a very easy read.

Rating: 3/5

Like this? Try Career Helium by David Thompson

Posted by Keris on February 8, 2008 in American Authors, Non Fiction, Rating: 3/5, Self development | Permalink | Comments (0)

MOVIE NEWS: Angus, Thongs & Full-Frontal Snogging trailer!

Oh, this has been a good week for fans of young adult series. First the Sweet Valley High news and now the trailer for the movie of the first book in Louise Rennison's Georgia Nicolson series.

And, yes, I think that *is* T4's Steve Jones... sigh...

Posted by Keris on February 8, 2008 in Movie News, Series, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (1)

BOOK NEWS: The Mousehunter

Now I have to be honest, I'm not writing about new book The Mousehunter because it's chick lit (because it's not), but because the author, Alex Milway, is the partner of a Shiny Media big cheese (mouse hunter? big cheese? geddit?).

Having said that, the book does sound fabulous - it's a mouse pirate sea adventure - and the main character's a girl: mousekeeper, Emiline Orelia.

Take a look at Alex talking about the book here.

Posted by Keris on February 8, 2008 in Book News | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 7, 2008 4:08 PM

THURSDAY TRAILBLAZER: Erica Jong

Ericajong Erica Jong wowed the literary scene with her debut novel, Fear of Flying, in 1973. With a strong female protagonist - the unforgettable Isadora Wing - and frank, relationship-centred content, there is no doubt that published today, it would've had a pink cover...

Henry Miller said: "This book will make literary history...because of it women are going to find their own voice and give us great sagas of sex, life, joy and adventure."

I remember reading Fear Of Flying as a teenager and being blown away by Isadora. Yes, she was confused and filled with internal struggle, but she was smart and funny, too. She was striving for balance in her life, and for a way to get what she wanted and needed (both in her relationships and creative work) - and she didn't apologise for her sexuality.

Erica followed Fear of Flying with How To Save Your Own Life (which picks up Isadora's story three years later), six other novels, poetry, a chidren's book, a memoir and non-fiction work on Henry Miller, Witches, feminism and writing.

Erica is a graduate of Barnard College and Columbia University, where she studied 18th Century English Literature. She also attended Columbia's graduate writing program. She has taught literature and writing all over the world.

Erica has been married four times. Her third marriage (to the novelist Jonathan Fast) produced a daughter, Molly Jong-Fast (who is also a novelist).

Novels:
Fear of Flying
How to Save Your Own Life
Fanny, Being the True History of Fanny Hackabout-Jones
Parachutes & Kisses
Sylock's Daughter (formerly titled Serenissima)
Any Woman's Blues
Inventing Memory
Sappho's Leap

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 7, 2008 in American Authors, Book related, Thursday Trailblazer | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK NEWS: Sweet Valley High

I don't know of a way to say this except to come straight out with it. The Sweet Valley High series is being reissued. THE SWEET VALLEY HIGH SERIES IS BEING REISSUED!

The first, Double Love, is out in April, with more following later this year. [via A Chair, A Fireplace & A Tea Cosy]

Please tell me the Sweet Dreams books will be reissued too. Lord, I was OBSESSED with them! Ob. Sessed.

Posted by Keris on February 7, 2008 in Book News, Series, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (13)

Global Short Story

The Global Short Story Competition is a new monthly competition designed to appeal to writers everywhere, "from the arid outback of Australia to the baking deserts of Africa, the towering skyscrapers of the United States to the humid cities of Asia, the bustling capitals of Europe to the steamy villages of South America". Just that sentence makes me wish I wasn't in drizzly Lancashire...

Each month, a winning story will receive a cash prize and will also be posted on the website. At the end of twelve months, each winning story will be considered for an annual cash prize.

Find out more on the rather smart website. [via blog eclectic]

Posted by Keris on February 7, 2008 in Competition, Short Story Collections | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW: The Half Life of Stars by Louise Wener

Halflifeofstars Claire's overachieving older brother walks out of his office and out of his life. Daniel is married, rich and successful, but one day near to Christmas he simply disappears into thin air.

Claire, who is not making a conspicuous success of her own life, is convinced she understands Daniel best and sets out to look for him.

Set between in Miami and London, in both the past and the present, The Half Life of Stars explores a dysfunctional family, long-burried secrets and the nature of happiness and loss.

As Claire searches for her lost brother, she discovers more about herself and her family and the steps which have taken her to this point in her life.

It's packed with genuinely interesting and original characters and pick-your-jaw-up-from-the-floor fabulous dialogue. In fact, Wener has such a brilliant ear for the American dialogue, I'm going to go ahead and compare her to Elmore Leonard.

The Half Life of Stars is quirky and funny and fast-paced as well as thoughtful, layered and literary. Quite a feat!

Rating: 5/5

Like this only YA? Try: Looking For Alaska by John Green

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 7, 2008 in British Authors, Rating: 5/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

AUTHOR INTERVIEW: Kate Long

Kate Long's debut novel, The Bad Mother's Handbook, was not only a bestseller, it was also made into a TV drama starring Catherine Tate. Kate's latest book, The Daughter Game, is out at the beginning of next month.

Please describe your latest book in 15 words or fewer:

Unhappily married teacher Anna forms an unhealthy attachment to a female pupil under her care.

Where do you like to write your books (in bed, a coffee shop, an office)?

At long last I have my own computer – no more waiting for sons to get off Bamzooki or husband to finish looking at kit cars on ebay – but I don’t have anything as grand as an office. I work at a desk in our front room, with guinea pigs frolicking round my feet.

Your favourite chick-lit book?

I enjoyed The Nanny Diaries by Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Kraus enormously. Blimey, how the other half live! And, for similar reasons, Lauren Weisberger’s The Devil Wears Prada.

Your favourite female heroine (if different from above!), and why?

Esther Summerson in Dickens’ Bleak House. I read the book in my early twenties and found her simple goodness tremendously affecting; the scene where she looks for the first time at her scarred face is the one that sticks most in my memory. And it’s odd, because normally I like my heroines flawed and messy. I guess there’s something very strong about her: I don’t know how else to put it but to say she shines off the page.

What tips would you give to any of our readers who want to become writers?

Read widely and for love; write every day, if you can; be cautious about showing your work too early as the wrong kind of critical reaction can be damaging. Try not to dwell too much on rejections because every writer gets them. Believe in yourself, and in your own voice.

What are you reading at the moment?

A novel I’ve been sent for review, The Great North Road by Annabel Doré. I’m only a few pages in, but I know I’m going to love it. The way the narrator addresses the reader directly reminds me of Kate Atkinson, and I always love a story based round a family mystery.

What are you working on now? (If you can give us a hint!)

A novel about a fifty-something woman who’s denied access to her beloved grandson after a row with her daughter. The story follows the grandma’s fight to get her grandson back, and her efforts to heal the fractured relationship she’s always had with her daughter. In a sense it’s about how it is possible redeem the past, if we have the courage to confront our failings head-on.

Do you have a theme song?

What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong, without a doubt.

What question have you never been asked in an interview, but think you should have been? (Tell us the question and answer it too, if you like!)

I believe your other great passion is riparian wildlife. Tell us why you’re particularly interested in water voles, and what we can do to help these charming but endangered animals.

(Answer here, if you’re inspired!)

Posted by Keris on February 7, 2008 in Interviews | Permalink | Comments (6)

February 6, 2008 6:23 PM

Latest WGA strike news

Vanity Fair has cancelled its famous after-show Oscars party in support of the Writers Guild of America strike.

This latest blow comes just as hopes are raised for an agreement between the WGA and the Hollywood film studios. The word on the net is that a deal is taking shape to end the three-month-long strike and that meetings are being set up for this Saturday.

[Via Reuters]

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 6, 2008 in American Authors, Book related, Movie News, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

BOOK REVIEW: Earthly Pleasures by Karen Neches

Karen Neches' Earthly Pleasures begins in Heaven, where Skye Sebring is a hospitality greeter. She meets Ryan Blaine, who has a brush with death following a motorbike accident. Unbeknownst to him, Ryan is one of the stars of Heaven's soap opera, Earthly Pleasures, and, after meeting him, Skye is more than intrigued.

Is that not a completely brilliant idea? I love everything about it ... but there's more. When Skye starts training to return to earth, all of life's lessons are contained in the lyrics of Beatles songs. Fabulous, no? Oh yes, there's more...

Down on earth, Ryan is struggling with his marriage. Following a near-fatal accident of her own, his wife Susan has changed almost beyond all recognition. He's not in love with her anymore, but how can he tell her?

Also on earth, care home resident Caroline gets a new roommate: Emily is in a coma she's never expected to recover from, but from which Caroline is determined to retrieve her.

I don't want to say much more because I'm scared of giving anything away. Not only is this book full of surprises (and some shocks), it's funny, moving, sad, thrilling and inspiring.

It would have been 5/5 but I was very slightly disappointed with the ending. If I could have given it 4.5/5 I would. I really, really loved it.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try If Only It Were True by Marc Levy, filmed as Just Like Heaven

Posted by Keris on February 6, 2008 in American Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Romance, Supernatural | Permalink | Comments (2)

Maureen Johnson on chick lit

The goddess that is Maureen Johnson has responded to my What *is* chick lit post and not only is it one of the best defences of chick lit I've read, it's also the maddest. For instance, I've never before read one that included the words "weasel", "soufflé", "zombies" or "jellyfish".

Read it here.

Related posts: Maureen Johnson interview | In defence of chick lit

Posted by Keris on February 6, 2008 in Opinion | Permalink | Comments (1)

COVER COMPETITION: Confessions of a Beauty Addict

You know how obsessed I am with book covers? Well, the publishers of Nadine Haobsh's second book (and first novel), Confessions of a Beauty Addict, have asked Trashionista readers to help them choose the cover!

As if that wasn't exciting enough, if you leave a comment explaining your choice (making sure you include your email address so we can get your details if you win), you could win an advance copy of the book (one commenter will be chosen at random).

Read more about the book and cast your vote over the cut.

When Bella Hunter, Beauty Expert and all around magazine editor wunderkind, loses her job for spilling top industry secrets to Page 6 she thinks her life is over. And, to top it all off, she's managed to dye her hair bright orange. At her wits end and desperate not to return home with her tail between her legs, Bella accepts a job a Womanly Wear: a magazine her mom reads. But how can she face her glamorous ex-co-workers now that she works in an office where khaki (not Cavalli) is the way of life?

Bella is out to wage war on the beauty world one bad makeover at a time, armed with only her Marc Jacobs shoes, three meddling best friends, and a flighty supermodel boyfriend. At odds with her stuffy (and undeniably gorgeous) publisher, Bella begins to realize that she may be fighting the wrong battle.

more at twiigs.com...

Posted by Keris on February 6, 2008 in Book covers, Competition | Permalink | Comments (43)

Heather Wells series optioned for TV

It's official, Meg Cabot really is taking over the world... And hurrah for that! Her Heather Wells series (Size 12 Is Not Fat, Size 14 Is Not Fat Either and Size Doesn't Matter*) has been optioned by ABC Family for a TV series.

Heather Wells is an ex-teen-pop-star and amateur sleuth and, like most of Meg's fabby ideas, I think it will translate well to the screen...

* Titled Big Boned in the US

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 6, 2008 in American Authors, Book related, Crime / Mystery, Television | Permalink | Comments (4)

February 5, 2008 6:43 PM

WWII Keep Calm poster

Keepcalmposter Ever since I saw this reproduction WWII poster in Sarah Waters' study (okay, a picture of her study), I've coveted it. It's so encouraging, so apt, so British.

Having tracked it down (at the Victorian and Albert Museum shop) I thought I'd share the joy. Who doesn't need to be reminded to keep calm on a daily basis?

Related posts: Guardian writers' rooms | Book-print wallpaper

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 5, 2008 in Book related, British Authors | Permalink | Comments (5)

BOOK NEWS: Bryson's Dictionary for Writers and Editors

Brysonsdictionary I adore Bill Bryson's writing and, like Keris, loved The Life and Times of The Thunderbolt Kid. Also, being something of a word nerd, his books on the English language (Troublesome Words and Mother Tongue) have a very special place in my heart.

A place that's going to have to expand, I feel, to accommodate his latest book: Bryson's Dictionary for Writers and Editors. It's out in hardback in March (UK) or April (US).

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 5, 2008 | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW: The Accidental Vampire by Lynsay Sands

Reviewed by Angela Richardson

The Accidental Vampire is one of the Argeneau series of vampire books by Lynsay Sands. She is understandably a New York Times bestselling author as her books are always of the same high standard and are run away enjoyable reads.

Elvi Black has been sleeping in a coffin, staying out of the sun and has given up garlic and food, ever since an accident turned her into a vampire. She’s had to rely on watching Dracula for her tips on how to survive; after all, her mortal friends aren’t going to be read up on proper biting etiquette. But her neighbours are worried about her getting lonely and so place a personal ad for her in the local paper. She never imagined that she’d meet Victor Argeneau, a vampire that could have his pick of any women – dead or alive.

Rich and powerful, Victor’s the perfect man for a novice vampire like Elvi. He’s willing to teach her everything he knows, but he’ll have to do it fast. Someone’s out to put a stake through her new vamp life and only Victor can keep her safe for all eternity.

Lynsay Sands never disappoints, her books always stand out on their own so you don’t have to read her series in order. Don’t be put off by the mention of vampires; underneath it all is an old fashioned romantic comedy that you can’t fail to enjoy. Even though the plot is sometimes a bit thin, this book isn’t really about the plot. The characters and how they relate to each other are what really makes this book work. This was a really fast paced read and is pure escapism that’s guaranteed to make your lazy Sunday speed by… or perhaps that’s just me being really indulgent!

Wherever you read this you’re in for a great ride.

Rating: 5/5

Like this? Try Happy Hour at Casa Dracula by Marta Acosta

Posted by Keris on February 5, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 5/5, Series, Supernatural | Permalink | Comments (3)

HELEN'S HEROINES: Nymphadora Tonks

Helen's weekly column on her fictional female heroes...

She is known simply as Tonks. A feisty but sometimes clumsy witch, she makes a smashing entrance in the Harry Potter series when Harry hears “a crash in the kitchen below.” She may only be a secondary character, not making her appearance until book five (The Order of the Phoenix), but she is a young woman who makes a substantial impression on Harry and his friends. The warmth and affection for Tonks is evident from the many fan sites on the internet dedicated to her.

She is bright and talented but full of mischief. She delights in teasing the dour Professor Moody, rolling her eyes and asking him questions like, "Who d’you know who’s lost a buttock?" Along with her razor sharp wit comes her ability to change her appearance at will. Rowling tells us that technically this makes her a Metamorphmagus and throughout the books Tonks appears with a variety of colourful hair colours, only resorting to her normal colour when she is depressed.

Like heroines in previous columns she too prefers to be known by a variation of her real name stating, “So would you if your fool of a mother had called you Nymphadora.”

She is not much older than Harry, with a number of websites suggesting she was born in 1973 - having worked out a timeline for her based on facts from the books and snippets from Ms Rowling herself. Amazing. Working for the Ministry of Magic, Tonks is an Auror and is always to be found in the thick of the action, fighting death eaters in the Department of Mysteries, spying and guarding Hogwarts School. With all her powers, she is one of Harry’s staunchest allies and protectors as a member of the Order of the Phoenix.

Tonks may consider her mother a "fool" for calling her Nymphadora but her mother bravely chose to marry a muggle to the consternation of the rest of her family – the Black family. History repeats itself as Tonks herself also falls for an inappropriate man, the sometimes scary, sometimes kindly Professor Lupin – who has a very slight problem every full moon. Despite these challenges, Tonks perseveres – a sign of her determined character. Throughout the books she never gives in, in love and in fighting and unsurprisingly was there at the final battle.

She has courage, humour and isn’t afraid to show her feelings. She is one of the youngest characters aside from the students and may appear as a young rebel but there is far more depth beneath her gregarious and happy-go-lucky personality. Underneath the changing hair colour, the different faces, and her love for Lupin is a fiercely determined young woman, very talented, a great team player and a huge asset not only to the Order of the Phoenix but also to the entire Harry Potter phenomenon.

Related posts: George Kirrin | Jo March

Posted by Keris on February 5, 2008 in Helen's Heroines | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 4, 2008 5:14 PM

MORE ON MONDAY: The Psychology of Joss Whedon: An Unauthorized Exploration of "Buffy', "Angel" and "Firefly"

Psychjosswhedon Joss Whedon is the creator of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, it's spin-off series Angel, Firefly (another series, which sadly only ran for one season) and Serenity (a film inspired by Firefly).

There has been lots of study - both light-hearted and academic - of Whedon's worlds and the amazing characters that inhabit them.

This latest collection of critical essays delves into the psychology of Joss himself, as well taking an analytical look at his creations.

Written by a variety of authors - all of whom have strings of letters after their names - and with frequent reference to psychological theories and methods, this book had the potential to be very hard-going indeed.

Luckily, it's very readable, and the essays are well-researched and cogent. They cover topics such as neuroscience in Firefly and Angel's relationship with his mother. My personal favourites are the essays that refer to feminism in both Buffy and Whedon's own personality (Joss often refers to himself as a 'radical feminist', just another reason he is one of my personal heroes).

A couple of words of warning, however; this book is definitely not at the 'light' end of the fan-essay-market. Although by no means impenetrable, you really do need to have an interest in psychology as well as in Whedon and his works.

Also, the essays refer widely to the episodes of Buffy, Angel and Firefly, so there are plenty of spoilers.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: Serenity Found

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 4, 2008 in American Authors, More On Monday, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Supernatural, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

Freya North wins Romantic Novel of the Year

Freya North's Pillow Talk has beaten the competition to win this year's Romantic Novel of the Year.

Pillow Talk is the only one of the shortlisted books we'd reviewed when the shortlist was announced ... coincidence or the power of Trashionista? You decide? (Yeah, coincidence.)

Since I'm announcing winners, I might as well announce the winner of the competition to win all six shortlisted books ... *drumroll* ... Karen Clarke of Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire.

Congratulations, Freya and Karen!

Posted by Keris on February 4, 2008 in Prize Winners | Permalink | Comments (1)

Um, what is chick lit, exactly?

The marvellous Maureen Johnson is currently guest blogging at teen fiction site, insideadog and introduced the new blog by her agent, Daphne Unfeasible. Funny and full of excellent advice, I immediately subscribed. (Thanks, Luisa!)

Of course it wasn't long before the subject of chick lit was broached. In response to a question from a reader and aspiring writer, Daphne wrote the following:

To be brutally honest, I see no problem in the term "chic lit," or "chick lit," or whatever else they choose to call it. Young women's fiction, if you will. Pink covers, pictures of shoes, female protagonists having existential crises over glasses of chardonnay. But some have decided that description is deader than last season's flats, so we come up with synonyms. "Witty women's fiction" is one. "Upscale commercial fiction" works just as well.

In general, I like my fiction smart and funny. It doesn't need to fall strictly in the confines of what some would term chick lit -- one of the best novels I read last year was Lisa Lutz's The Spellman Files, and that fits no one's idea of chick lit. It's less about sticking my interests in a single category than being interested in original stories with intriguing characters, for a relatively young, commercial audience.

There are a couple of things that interest me about this. Firstly, I've recently been asked elsewhere to define chick lit and ... I can't. Apart from that it will probably (but not definitely - see Lisa Jewell's A Friend of the Family) have a female main character with a relatively snarky tone, I think the genre has widened enough that you can't set any parameters on story, setting, age of characters, anything ... particularly not the wine they drink or shoes they wear. The best I could come up with was that I know chick lit when I see it (which isn't at all helpful to anyone else, of course). Which brings me to my second point...

I also loved The Spellman Files and, while reading it, kept asking myself whether it was chick lit. I think it does fit the genre to a certain extent - snarky heroine, challenging romantic relationships and even more challenging family members - but I still struggled to decide whether to review it as chick lit or not. Eventually I decided that if Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum series is chick lit (and I think it is) then so is The Spellman Files.

What do you think?

Posted by Keris on February 4, 2008 in Opinion | Permalink | Comments (2)

BOOK REVIEW: Undercover by Beth Kephart

This is her first book for young adults by National Book Award nominee, Beth Kephart. I admit I was a bit intimidated to read this because the whole National Book Award thing made me think of "Literature" and I thought Undercover might be too serious for my tastes. Yes, it's serious. But it's also sweet, charming, sad, beautiful and ... just flat-out wonderful. ("Just flat-out wonderful" - do you think that's what the National Book Award folks said about Ms Kephart?)

Anyway, it's the story of Elisa who writes love notes for boys to give to the objects of their affection, but isn't so lucky in love herself. Her mother and sister are like two perfect peas in a pod, but Elisa is much more like her father. Her father who is working in San Francisco and who may not ever come home.

Things begin to change for Elisa when, first, she discovers a frozen pond (complete with an underwater
statue of a girl reading a book), and then Theo Moses asks her to write a love note for Lila, the most popular girl in the school. Even after Theo has won Lila, he persists in hanging around Elisa, but she has no idea why. Surely he can't like her?

Whether writing poetry, skating, talking to Theo, missing her father, or worrying about her parents' marriage, Elisa is ... I was about to write "sweet" then, but then I let out a huge sigh. She's not "sweet". She's lovely, but she's also wise and sad and full of repressed emotion*. I loved her and wanted everything to work out for her.

Read this beautiful book to see if it does.

Rating: 5/5

Like this? Try Bloom by Elizabeth Scott

*Have you ever watched David Duchovny's show, Californication? I can see the daughter, Becca, as Elisa.

Posted by Keris on February 4, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 5/5, Recent Release, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (6)

BRAND NEW BOOK NEWS: Nothing But Good Times Ahead

Eep! I just heard that a book of academic essays on Jennifer Crusie's work is being written. Yep, it's not even got a publisher, yet; that's how new this book news is!

Titled Nothing But Good Times Ahead: The Novels of Jennifer Crusie, the book is edited by Eric Murphy Selinger and Laura Vivanco. It's going to cover topics like ageing, feminism, and symbolism in Crusie's work. We will keep you posted...

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 4, 2008 in American Authors, Book News, Non Fiction, You heard it here first! | Permalink | Comments (2)

February 3, 2008 10:34 AM

Harlequin's Valentine Sony Reader

Harlequin have come up with a cunning plan for Valentine's Day - a Sony Reader, with a pink skin, loaded with 14 romances only available in e-book format.

Call me shallow, but now that I've seen the Sony Reader in pink, I really want one.

[via Galleycat]

Posted by Keris on February 3, 2008 in Romance, Technology | Permalink | Comments (2)

February 2, 2008 10:49 AM

BOOK NEWS: The Day I Ate Whatever I Wanted

How I love Elizabeth Berg. And the title of this book? Love, love, love. (The cover, not so much ... carry on over the cut for more Elizabeth Berg covers.)

Anyway, out in April, The Day I Ate Whatever I Wanted is a collection of short stories on the theme of "What would you do, if nobody was looking?"

Berg's suggestions include "Go AWOL from Weight Watchers and spend an entire day eating every single thing you want – and then some? Start a dating service for people over fifty to reclaim the razzle-dazzle in your life – or your marriage? Seek comfort in the face of aging, look for love in the midst of loss, find friendship in the most surprising of places?"

It's a shame nobody's looking cos I'm doing a happy dance!

Granted, I don't like the new cover above, but I've always loved Berg's previous covers (left) ... except they've been redesigned (right). I like this one for We Are All Welcome Here, but I'm not sure about some of the others.

For instance, the cover for The Art of Mending looks like an eighties Danielle Steel...

What do you think?

Posted by Keris on February 2, 2008 in Book News, Short Story Collections | Permalink | Comments (2)

February 1, 2008 2:59 PM

BOOK NEWS: Screen Plays: How 25 Scripts Made It to a Theater Near You - for Better or Worse

Screeplays Interested in how films are made? Polishing your own screenplay as we speak? David Cohen's new book describes the process of taking an idea for a film from the first concept, to the script and - finally - the screen.

Cohen interviews Hollywood screen writers and looks at the fortunes of 25 movies including Erin Brockovich, Lost in Translation and Monster's Ball.

Aimed at aspiring screen writers, the book is also packed with advice on how to sell your script - and how to protect it once you have. It's out in the US next week, but I haven't managed to find a UK release date yet...

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 1, 2008 in American Authors, Book News, Movie Magic, New Releases | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW: Death of a Six-Foot Teddy Bear by Sharon Dunn

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Quirky and hilarious – those are the words I’d use to describe Sharon Dunn’s newest release, Death of a Six-Foot Teddy Bear. The title alone made me chuckle and the book doesn’t disappoint.

The Bargain Hunter’s Network (BHN) is a group of women that shop together and, naturally, seek out sales and bargain prices. BHN consists of four women: cat loving Ginger, Kindra the college student, Suzanne the mother of four, and Arleta, the senior citizen of the group.

In Death of a Six-Foot Teddy Bear, the second book in the Bargain Hunters Mystery series, the group travels to Calamity, Nevada, the site of an invention convention in which Ginger’s husband wants to take part.

The group arrives in Calamity and from there things go steadily downhill. A mystery ensues and the HBN ends up right in the middle of the action. The result is a hilarious novel that, while at times silly, entertains and gives a nice break from reality which is something I can always use. J

Rating: 3/5

Like this? Try Simmer Down by Jessica Conant-Park and Susan Conant

Posted by Keris on February 1, 2008 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Inspirational, Rating: 3/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (0)

BEST OF 2007 GUEST BLOG: Caroline Smailes

Helen picked Caroline Smailes' In Search of Adam as the best book she'd read in 2007. I loved it too. And Caroline was kind enough to agree to guest blog for us! We're happy...

It happened again yesterday. I went to the school to pick up my three kiddies and I saw a playground mum making a direct route towards me. She’s one of those mums who never normally talks to me, she’s immaculately dressed with perfectly straight hair (no hidden clumps of kink at the back, like mine) and she was almost barging towards me. I found myself sweating.

She boomed at me, “I’ve read your book.”

“Th..th..anks,” I seriously stuttered, her tone told me that there was more.

“I can’t believe that someone like you would write something like that. It just goes to show that you never know what goes on inside someone’s head,” she cackled and then flew away on her broomstick. (I may have exaggerated slightly here).

But, I get this a lot.

In Search of Adam tackles child abuse, suicide, eating disorders and self harm. Am I selling it to you? All I can say, in an attempt to justify, is that as I write my stories unfold and develop into what I’d consider a true, an honest reaction to events. I can’t create a happily ever after, if that happily ever after will make the plot or story lose integrity. Some readers will find this uncomfortable, some will begin to look at me differently, and others will connect with the narrator, journeying through the novel with her/him. Within In Search of Adam, bad things happen but I tried to write a novel that was layered with so much more then just bad things. I wanted the reader to be left feeling hope, redemption, peace.

Since publication of the hardback, I’ve been overwhelmed by the response. I’ve written something that makes people react in some way. I’ve been true to myself in producing a story that is grounded in fact, tackling the reality that bad things happen and if we simply ignore the bad things, well it won’t make them go away.

In the playground, yesterday, I did consider chasing after the playground mum and trying to highlight the fairytale imagery, the religious themes and above all to tell her that her children could be trusted in my care. But I didn’t chase. Instead I stood in the playground, planning out the sex scene that was to be included in my next novel and wondering what the playground gossips would declare of me then.

Sometimes, I really really love writing stories.

Check out Caroline's novella, Disraeli Avenue, which she is offering as a free ebook.

Posted by Keris on February 1, 2008 in Guest blogs | Permalink | Comments (2)

FRIDAY FLICK: Little Children

I loved Tom Perrotta's book and I love Kate Winslet so I had high hopes for this film, but...

Okay, first of all there was a voiceover. An omniscient narrator describing the characters' thoughts and backstory. For example, "Sarah wondered if Brad was always this forthcoming. If anything, he seemed a little lonely..."

At first I thought we'd accidentally put the audio description on! It was extremely distracting.

Then there were the changes to the book. I'm not entirely confident about this since it's a while since I read it, but as far as I recall, the treatment of the sex offender character was much more interesting and morally challenging in the book. In the movie, he was much more of a generic "baddy", from the casting onwards.

There were a couple of other things that were taken directly from the book, but weren't fleshed out or explained enough. Like Brad's obsessive watching of the skateboarders. Having read the book, I got what it was all about, but my husband, who hasn't read it, was puzzled by it.

Kate Winslet was great, but all in all, it left me a bit cold.

Related posts: Little Children movie news | Friday Flick archives

Posted by Keris on February 1, 2008 in Friday Flick | Permalink | Comments (11)

Authors write for Amnesty

Thirty top authors including Tom Stoppard,Iain Banks, DBC Pierre, Jeanette Winterson and Kate Atkinson, are putting pen to paper in support of Amnesty International.

Six books, each containing five new stories, will be published in August. The project, titled Blood Like Water, marks the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

[Via AOL]

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 1, 2008 in Book News, British Authors, Short Story Collections | Permalink | Comments (0)