tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10396452684524477542024-03-08T14:00:47.783-05:00The Bookshelf GoblinWelcome to my Bookshelf. You'll find that not all books are hard copy, some are nothing more than short stories. We'll be looking at all kinds of things as time passes. Isn't it exciting? Most items are either easily available online, or available at your public library; eBooks, Hard Copy, web Text, OH MY!Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18392691042954290356noreply@blogger.comBlogger67125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-52363956655541857952013-05-10T20:55:00.001-04:002013-05-10T20:55:16.083-04:00Nook VS KindleOk, so it has been a LONG time since you've seen a new post from me, and I do apologize about that. Let's blame it on life changes and take it from there. A lot of things have changed in my every day to day life, and it affected my ability to complete anything of interest for you all. But that's alright. I'm back.<br />
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Today I want to give you a small post on how i feel about the nook vs the kindle. My nook was doing fine and dandy until it ate my entire digital library. I don't know why it did, but it did a complete factory reset. Which was very annoying and frustrating because of how many books I lost. But I do need to let you know that the nook type I have is the older one with the ink presentation pages, and the small touch screen along the bottom.<br />
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The kindle on the other hand, has been very entertaining. There's so much that it can do and so much that I can read on it. There is a lot of books and different media types that can be used on it. I've been reading on it, as well as playing some games. I love my singing monsters, and nemo's reef is slowly growing on me.<br />
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Anyway, I'm back. You're going to be seeing a bit more of me now, I think things will be ok.Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-43956885758190060352012-02-14T01:38:00.002-05:002012-02-14T01:38:00.327-05:00Something Different For Valentine's DayTo be honest Valentine's day is the one day of the year I dread more than any other. I've yet to have a pleasant experience on it, and I am not going to be planning on having a good experience on it this year. But that doesn't matter. I found an adorable book that I just HAVE to share with you! (regardless of how I personally feel about the matter of Love)<br /><br />Fixing Cupid<br />Cristian YoungMiller<br />438 pages<br /><br />Don't let the page numbers daunt you. This is a fast read, the story is fun and you never know what is going to come next.<br /><br />It revolves around a character named Ben and his troubles with love. If you don't believe me, just read the first 6 pages, you'll know enough that you'll likely be as intrigued as I was.<br /><br />His best friend decides to try and help him 'fix' his problem, by helping him put his life back together. But as the story continues, we wonder if the fix is causing more trouble than it is worth.<br /><br />Due to most of the content of this book, I do NOT recommend it for readers that are not capable of dealing with sarcasm and adult situations. It also helps to have a sense of humor and a slight idea about romantic history.<br /><br />Why did I like this eBook? Well, it was cheerful, pleasant, and there are a large number of comedic moments that shine. It is a piece that will appeal to both genders, and there's a happy ending.<br /><br />I guess I'm a sucker for a happy ending.Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-48897467748668866982012-02-04T23:34:00.003-05:002012-02-04T23:34:00.388-05:00Familiar Characters Presented in a new LightWhen people look at the blurb on the back of a book, curiosity will often get the better of them if there are names that they recognize. That is what happened to me in this case.<br /><br />There's No Place Like Homecoming<br />Lacy Maran<br />182 pages<br /><br />Personally I would classify this as a fan fiction. Why? Because of the large number of well known characters that she makes her own between the pages. They are not presented in their original formats, but there are a number of references to the classic stories that they are found in. On the most part, it's a light read, not really intended to be taken seriously.<br /><br />The writing is good though, very very good.<br /><br />Dorothy Gale, Peter Pan, and Cupid for starters if you need a teasing idea about who you can find between the pages.Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-90330007178625413722012-01-20T03:25:00.002-05:002012-01-20T03:27:15.557-05:00What I've been reading.I haven't been posting much lately because I haven't been reading any specific piece that was long enough to bother you with. I've been reading the newspaper. So that's what I recommend to you for today. Pick up your local newspaper and take a look at what they've decided should be important to you.Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-84645969235060582742012-01-12T01:35:00.004-05:002012-01-12T01:35:00.287-05:00Vampires take Vacations Too!It seems that these days supernatural themes are very popular. That, and I really enjoy reading about monsters and that kind of thing. So today we're looking at a short piece that seemed to hold promise.<br /><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">101 Tips for Traveling with a Vampire</span><br />Joleene Naylor<br />24 pages<br /><br />This short piece has a highly humorous tone to it. I'm guessing though, that rather than being a stand alone short, it was intended to be a supplement to the authors other work. Which annoyed me slightly. I had no idea when I added it to my reading list that it was going to give me more questions than answers. Yes, I am being honest when I say that it annoyed me slightly.<br /><br />On the bright side there's enough cute funny tidbits to make it worth reading. For example:<br /><blockquote>"Before you buy your vampire friend an undead rubber ducky, make sure they have a sense of humor."</blockquote>All in all it honestly wasn't bad. But previous exposure to the authors works may be beneficial in order to fully appreciate the piece. Though I can't give a rating for her other work, this piece is appropriate for a general reading audience.<br /><br />^_~Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-84157970894501103002012-01-11T01:03:00.000-05:002012-01-11T01:03:01.926-05:00More Online Storybooks For KidsI enjoy reading all sorts of things. I'm not ashamed to admit that I enjoy children's books as much as some adult books. Why? Because many of them are illustrated. They have vibrant colors or simple stories that intend to offer advice, or teach some sort of lesson or another. So I enjoy them for what many of them are, guided works of art. As well as entertainment.<br /><br />Today I'm recommending the following link:<a href="http://www.magickeys.com/books/"> http://www.magickeys.com/books/</a><br /><br /> The site has a nice mini library of books available. This time they are pieces that YOU read to the kid yourself, or have them read them to you. rather than something you hit play and let them watch.<br /><br />I really enjoyed <a href="http://www.magickeys.com/books/marymakeover/index.html">Little Miss Mary and the Big Monster Makeover</a>. The poetry was cute, and it was neat to see someone use pop culture, and "fancy" fashion as a hook in point to make their story fun. Little girls would probably enjoy it, but I doubt that little boys would. There are books for both boys and girls though, and the themes and type of art varies, helping to make it a nice mini digital library to explore.Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-18644690438673590972012-01-10T01:28:00.002-05:002012-01-10T01:28:02.254-05:00Are We Eating Meat?Or something else? We all have heard rumors about places serving meats other than the kinds we're accustomed to, but what if someone was intentionally serving this and making sure you didn't know? What if that sweet meat was something, deviously acquired?<br /><br />I'm guessing a lot of you have seen the movie "Sweeney Todd". So the idea about eating human flesh isn't unknown, or a rarity. But in this hard copy book, the author gives it a twist.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ambrosial Flesh</span><br />Mary Ann Mitchell<br />391 pages<br /><br />This book takes a rather gruesome look at a church practice that has been around for a long time, communion. And that's just when the book starts. We're let into the world of a young boy, his happiness, and fears and wonders. But when denied action that he's been trained to perform, he makes a decision that effects the rest of his life, as we find out as the book goes on.<br /><br />He chooses to nibble at little pieces of his own skin. Eventually progressing to nibbling bits of other people that were consenting. The premise of the story is fairly believable, although eventually it takes a turn into the absurd that most horror does.<br /><br />Not a book for those with weak stomachs, or that get queasy at the thought of blood. Aimed more towards mature audiences. I enjoyed it because it's very different from some of the books I've read in the way that we see it end. I'll just say, it is unexpected but definitely a good choice.Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-48589778456449086722012-01-09T02:33:00.001-05:002012-01-09T02:33:00.353-05:00Irregular posting all of a sudden?No, not really, but kind of. Sometimes I don't have the time to read. Not because I don't want to read, but because I have another obligation that may be taking up my time. These include a variety of things. Work isn't necessarily the biggest culprit either, though it can be a factor at times.<br /><br />There are plenty of other things that I enjoy spending time doing. An example of this that has been taking up some of my time recently is game nights. Sometimes we play cards, or board games, or even video games. I never really realized before how much time a video game eats up. But I started paying attention recently, and realized that some sessions can last 3 hours! But what do I gain from gaming?<br /><br />I get a sense of belonging. I spend time interacting with like minded people in an activity that we enjoy. True there are some gamers that rage when things aren't going their way. But more often than not, I play with people that are playing simply to enjoy the game.<br /><br />I'm going to be blunt though. I won't play a game if I can't enjoy it. I value my time enough that I know there's no point in using my time to play something that I'm not going to at least have fun with. but yeah, I'm not slacking, I just haven't read as much recently. Though I am reading! Honest.<br /><br />I just need some "social" time now and then to stay sane.Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-51342498292389588752012-01-08T02:04:00.002-05:002012-01-08T02:30:21.697-05:00Steampunk/Romance/Murder/MysteryOk yeah that's a mouthful. I know it sounds kind of odd too. But all those are valid descriptions of what the book I'm blogging today is about. I decided I wanted to start looking into a variety of types of books, and explore outside my "zone" of horror and fantasy.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Viridis</span><br />Calista Taylor<br />330 pages<br /><br />"A Steampunk Romance"<br /><br />Interestingly this book starts off describing a mans dead body, and the place where the detective presumes he had spent his last hours before his death. It may not be a new idea, but it's nice to have the period style descriptions. Not only that her presentation of t he period, and the steampunk technology is lovely.<br /><br />Viridis, in the book, is not just the name of a club, It's also the name of a non-alcoholic herbal concoction. It's described at least twice, and it's affects are also described thoroughly. It's the wonderful detail throughout the whole piece though that helps guide the readers imagination to set up the vibrant colorful character filled environment.<br /><br />The language is beautiful, helping to make the characters believable and life like. A polished piece as a whole, its pacing varies. The content though keeps the reader interested, giving them a reason to continue reading. You learn about the difference between classes, and how it's causing rifts in society. It's almost a social commentary piece, what with the ideas of tinkerers and lords, and them not seeing eye to eye. Oh and the government issues as well! Secret service type stuff, it's great!<br /><br />The end is very unsuspecting, and as a <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">spoiler alert</span>, you may not want to continue past here.<br />I was intrigued that the author used a gay couple as a focal point. At least, the alternative lifestyle turned out to be the reasoning. The matter of accepting people for who they are is what was the driving part of the whole book.<br /><br />So, my end thought is that this is a wonderful read for a mature audience. Yes there is sex. Yes there is violence. But the details, the full world is fantastic.<br /><br />Well, we're going to get back on the ball now I think ^_^ Hope you read something great this weekend!Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-72842870003048853992012-01-05T15:48:00.001-05:002012-01-05T16:07:38.295-05:00The Importance of AmusementSo today I was reminded how important true amusement can be. I sat here and laughed, true laughter laughs, till I cried. And I feel so much better afterwards I'm surprised.<br /><br />So with that In Mind I'm sharing a funny Video today, for no real reason. Just to help share the laughter today.<br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/2vAObB6wSnE" allowfullscreen="" width="420" frameborder="0" height="315"></iframe><br /><br />back to usual scheduling soon. Thanks for being understanding.Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-90195688651930888962012-01-04T00:07:00.001-05:002012-01-04T02:09:04.059-05:00Villains Children KnowSo in the new year I'm sure we all have been watching the news, and their always trying to paint various people in a villainous light. And I'm seeing a trend. Kids have a habit of turning people they don't know into villains. And today I've got two such stories to share with you about kids and their villains. Neither are very factual, but they are both enjoyable shorts. Just a bit of fluff to lighten things up.<br />_________________<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Pumpkin Eater</span><br />Justin Cawthorne<br />18 pages<br /><br />This unique seasonal story looks at the kinds of stories that parents tell children.(You know, if you don't behave the boogeyman will get you" type of stuff) The made up things, like how flashlights scare away monsters. This one <span style="font-style: italic;">is</span> set in October on Halloween and examines what happens when a boy heads somewhere that is frightening. Yet he is determined to trick or treat the place anyway, to prove something to his friend. We learn something very interesting about the person who lives there though, he's not your everyday neighbor.<br /><br />A fun read for most ages, though an adult should pre-read it to determine if it is appropriate for their child. It isn't traumatizing, but it can seem scary to very young kids.<br />_________________<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Demon of Walker's Woods</span><br />Dan Dillard<br />79 pages<br /><br />This story is a much more grim look at the way children demonize older people that they do not know. It also examines the reactions that children have when something awful happens to someone that they are close too. You're shown how they progress to various levels, pushed by curiosity, only to have their fears confirmed. Recommended for and teens and up, children should only read this piece at an adults discretion. As it may be crueler than most can stand.<br />_________________________<br />Well, Happy reading folks! Hope you have a great day and I hope the new year is going well for you ^_^.Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-57229546309028328702012-01-03T01:11:00.001-05:002012-01-03T13:14:52.375-05:00Learning PoetryI happen to like a lot of different kinds of written work. As you've well noticed I'm sure if you're a regular reader, if you're not, welcome on board ^_^.<br /><br />When I was in college I was introduced to something called Poetry Slams, the idea of which puzzled me slightly. Why would people be slamming poetry? And then we watched some video footage, and I was amazed! This was something new, and wonderful to me.<br /><br />I was blessed to have the chance to see one of the artists perform live at my college. (And some of his work is amazing, just from a literary appreciation view, so seeing it done live and seeing what it was meant to sound like in person was great.) Today I figured that I'd start rounding this blog out, into a more cross genre creature (slowly as it may be) by adding one of his books of poetry to the mix.<br /><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">What Learning Leaves</span><br />Taylor Moli<br />74 pages<br /><br />I've had my copy of this book for 6 years. I've shared it with a few people, but it ended up in storage at one point and it recently came out. The poetry contained between the pages covers a variety of topics, but the ones that most people will relate to or understand are the ones concerning school.<br /><br />"Like Lilly Like Wilson" is one of my favorite poems in the book. It looks at the way people use the word like, even when it isn't necessary. Teenagers will likely find amusement in the words, and an understanding as well. That sometimes, there's a limit.<br /><br />Taylor Moli has put out more poetry since then(of course) and has his own website, If you're intrigued or even just a bit curious please head on over and take a look. http://www.taylormali.com/index1.html<br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/OonDPGwAyfQ" allowfullscreen="" width="420" frameborder="0" height="315"></iframe>Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-8677924234026453722012-01-02T19:57:00.009-05:002012-01-02T20:18:49.065-05:00The Goblins Goals<span style="font-weight: bold;">To do List.</span><br /><br />~post at least 200 times in 2012<br /><span style="font-size:78%;">(should be easy enough right? but darn that sounds like a lot of content to read)</span> 2/200<br />~make 12 goblins. <span style="font-size:78%;">(which equates to one a month... how hard can that be?)</span> 0/12<br />~make 36 Teaghans <span style="font-size:78%;">(this might be a bit much.....)</span> 0/36<br /><br style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jewelry project minimums for the year</span><br />~ make 12 necklaces 0/12<br />~make 12 bracelets 0/12<br />~make 6 pairs of earrings 0/6<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Other aims</span><br />~ take 365 photos that I'm willing to share. 1/365<br />~send 12 postcards 0/12<br />~get sewing machine fixed <span style="font-size:78%;">(no numerical value)</span><br />~get projects organized onto a schedule<span style="font-size:78%;"> (no numerical value)</span><br />~keep apartment clean <span style="font-size:78%;">(shouldn't be too hard)</span>Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-24541844538536773432012-01-02T11:50:00.002-05:002012-01-02T11:50:00.306-05:00There Once was a Huntsman...I love love love love love love Fairy tales ^_^. Have I said that before? Hrmm... Well now you know that I do. Why does it matter you wanna know? Well, for one thing, there are a lot of different takes on fairy tales. there are many perspectives and presentations, all vying for our approval and readership.<br /><br />This time I found a Gem. (Do I say that too much? hrmm... I like shiny things, I can't help it!)<br /><br />Unicorns Walk Among Us<br />Sg Lee<br />35 pages<br />http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif<br />This particular story looks at how people 'hunt' unicorns. Not only that, it contemplates the repercussions that the action can have.<br /><br />The writing style is very charming, and it is reminiscent of older stories I have read. The writer also has a website where they are working on filling in various stories. I highly recommend that you check out this short story, and then delve right into their web serial.<br /><br /><a href="http://talesofthebigbadwolf.com/">http://talesofthebigbadwolf.com/</a><br /><br />^_~ Listen to the Goblin dearies, she wouldn't steer you wrong.Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-76823911273121727722012-01-01T01:00:00.000-05:002012-01-01T01:00:02.893-05:00Happy New Year!Welcome to 2012!<br /><br />It's been interesting the past few months, sharing what I read with you. And I have enjoyed it. I plan on enjoying it for quite a bit longer in fact. I'm not going anywhere just yet. But I do want to thank those of you that are reading. I am thankful to have such wonderful people visit this page.<br /><br />Now, I'm going to remind you about a few small things, that I mentioned what seems like eons ago. The reason that I am going to do this is because I feel it's important for anyone who reads to know that there are plenty of options available.<br /><br />Our current economy, (yes I say Ours, because it effects everyone)means that when we pick something to read we are forced to be more selective. At least, when we are purchasing hard copy media. Digital media abounds in various formats, and there's a large amount of it out there. Various formats and types too.<br /><br />I personally have found a lot of enjoyment by utilizing my eReader to peruse a good number of pieces, some of which you've learned of, some of which you've yet to be told about. but I want to remind you about the sources I use to get new things to read.<br /><br />Project Gutenberg. ( <a href="http://www.gutenberg.org/">http://www.gutenberg.org</a> )<br />This site has a large variety of different pieces available. A good number of them are pieces that have passed out of print, or their copyright has become null. So you'll find a good number of classic pieces, as well as some lesser known older works here. I like to browse here when I feel nostalgic.<br /><br />WOWIO ( <a href="http://www.wowio.com/">http://www.wowio.com/</a> )<br />This website is nice for people looking for afford-ably priced books. They give out free books now and then as well, and they have a section of pieces they call Brain Bytes that are nice for self educating, or reading to provoke thought. If you enjoy comic books, they have a good number of graphic novels available at their site, some in color, some in black and white.<br /><br />Smashwords ( <a href="http://www.smashwords.com/">http://www.smashwords.com/</a> )<br />I LOVE this website. Why? Because you never know what you're going to get. I've found quite a few authors via this site that I positively ADORE. If you're not sure what kind of books you're interested in, you can search by topic. What I also like about this site is the large variety of file types that the different pieces are available in.Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-38558118785541876352011-12-31T01:07:00.001-05:002011-12-31T01:07:00.518-05:00Have a Safe and Joyful New Years Eve!Hope you enjoy yourselves tonight. I know that I'm planning to, whether it's home here with a few good friends, or if I end up sneaking out and visiting a few old ones. But the one thing i am not planning on doing is, drinking and driving.<br /><br />Drinking and driving is dangerous for myself and for others. My family has been touched by the outcome of drunk drivers more than once. The saddest part is that many people that drive under the influence truly believe that they aren't impaired and that there is nothing wrong with them.<br /><br />But please, if you're planning to drink tonight, have a designated driver, or drink at home.<br /><br />(And no book today, we will be back on schedule shortly though)<br /><br />~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~<br />Don't drink and drive-and don't ride with anybody who does.Tipsy Tow offered by AAA: You don't have to be a AAA member, from 6pm-6am on New Year's Eve/Day they will take your drunk self and your car home for FREE. Save this number... 1-800-222-4357.<br /><br />But make sure you read about whether it's available in you area or not.<br /><a href="http://urbanlegends.about.com/od/facebook/ss/Tipsy-Tow.htm">http://urbanlegends.about.com/od/facebook/ss/Tipsy-Tow.htm</a><br /><a href="http://www.kltv.com/story/16412155/aaa-tipsy-tow-goes-viral-but-not-available-everywhere">http://www.kltv.com/story/16412155/aaa-tipsy-tow-goes-viral-but-not-available-everywhere</a><br /><a href="http://www.ibtimes.com/articles/273728/20111228/aaa-tipsy-tow-free-ride-new-years.htm">http://www.ibtimes.com/articles/273728/20111228/aaa-tipsy-tow-free-ride-new-years.htm</a><br /><br />If You're in the WNY area, please see this site <a href="http://westerncentralny.aaa.com/discounts/retail/designated-drivers-buffalo">http://westerncentralny.aaa.com/discounts/retail/designated-drivers-buffalo</a> or make sure to set up with a designated driver.Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-1340534206443986732011-12-30T11:17:00.003-05:002011-12-30T11:31:03.554-05:00Sharing a FavoriteYes I know that this post is late. But I spent most of the past day and night sick. So today I'm sharing something that I've been reading off and on for a long while. The Devil's Panties.<br /><a href="http://thedevilspanties.com/"><br /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://thedevilspanties.com/">http://thedevilspanties.com/</a><br /><br /></span>There aren't enough words to explain why I enjoy this comic as much as I do. But I do, and I think most of you will like it too. Sometimes the comic is directed at grownups, but generally speaking, there's not much hat would be considered inappropriate.<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />(and am sorry am not doing justice with this post, may the reading world forgive me, but I feel so dizzy I need to go lay down again)</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-54523872800055553112011-12-29T01:15:00.004-05:002011-12-29T01:15:00.914-05:00Digital Interactive Storybooks OnlineWell now that the holidays are more or less over for a few months, I decided that today I wanted to share something that you could enjoy with your kids(after all many of them are out of school for a few more days until the new year.) So I sat down and started searching the internet, looking for something that might interest them. Eventually after reading through different things, I found a nice page with different things to 'read'.<br /><br />A British site, they have read along stories that are partially animated.It seems to be recommended as an educational tool, which is definitely what it is (even though it's disguised as a cute digital online library)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.woodlands-junior.kent.sch.uk/interactive/onlinestory.htm">http://www.woodlands-junior.kent.sch.uk/interactive/onlinestory.htm</a><br /><br />The stories seem simple on the most part, but they're enjoyable. I bet they might even make some babysitting jobs easier (if the kids are lucky.)<br /><br />Anyway, hope you're enjoying time with your families as the new year approaches. Happy reading!Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18392691042954290356noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-31044486854965733332011-12-28T01:01:00.000-05:002011-12-28T01:01:00.409-05:00More Stories Concerning "Food"There are a lot of different writers out there, and many of them have different perspectives when it comes to similar things. Today's food stories aren't about everyday foods though, they are about fanciful ones. Which means that there's no telling what you may actually find between the pages.<br />_______________<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What Dragons Prefer</span><br />Dayle A. Dermatis<br />10 pages<br /><br />This is a delightful story about a Dragon Hunter and her interactions with a village " plagued " by a dragon. The results as a whole are startling and unexpected, which means it is a WONDERFUL story.<br /><br />I recommend it more for teens and adults than younger children due to some of the topics the story covers.<br />_______________<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Supernatural Cookbook</span><br />S.W. Douglas<br />40 pages<br /><br />I didn't know what to expect when I picked up this piece. Part of me hoped that it would be full of recipes I could actually use. But to my delight and disappointment, it is full of fictional recipes. This will give you ideas on how to cook various characters from supernatural stories and films, all the while trying to get a laugh out of you.<br /><br />I recommend this read for teens and adults. The humor would be lost on young children. Besides, they might be inclined to think the recipes could work.<br />_______________<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cain's Apples</span><br />Bryan Lee<br />11 pages<br /><br />This story is kinda creepy. It involves the consumption of apples. But unlike some familiar stories, the eating of the apples doesn't affect you, it affects someone else. This means the tale hints at spite and revenge at times, but it also has a hint about consequences.<br /><br />Teens and Adults would enjoy this, I do not recommend it for children.<br />_______________<br /><br />Well I do hope that you are having a fun time reading. Remember that if you have any thoughts about any of the pieces I have mentioned, I'd love to hear them, as I am sure you're fellow readers would as well.<br /><br />Also, don't hesitate to recommend a fun read to me. I just might enjoy it ^_^Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-3528084659486150692011-12-27T04:31:00.000-05:002011-12-27T08:45:20.227-05:00What Kinds of Books......Would you like to see here in the new year?<br /><br />Yes, you read that right. I'm starting to go through and select some of my reading for the coming year (though considering how many days there are in a year it's not like I need to rush or anything.)<br /><br />Just in case you're not sure what I mean, there will be a list in this post for you to go down, feel free to leave a comment about what you'd like to see around here. As always, if there's a writer out there that would like their piece read, please feel free to contact me. You can either leave a comment here or see the pages and drop me a message. Anyway, back to the task at hand.<br /><br />A books genre is the type of content it has in it. This generally will denote where it would be stored in a library, or how it would be displayed in a book store. But for our purposes it's the matter of content. What kind is important to you or preferred by you?<br /><br /><ul><li>Biography</li><li>Children<br /></li><li>Classics</li><li>Comics and graphic novels</li><li>Crime</li><li>Fantasy</li><li>History</li><li>Horror</li><li>Picture Books</li><li>Poetry</li><li>Religion</li><li>Romance</li><li>Science Fiction</li><li>Thrillers</li></ul><p>I know that there are other classifications out there, and I am sure that you might have more than one suggestion as to a type of book to read. So remember that I'm open to suggestions.</p><p><br /></p>Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-45925196831467782432011-12-26T01:06:00.000-05:002011-12-26T01:06:00.210-05:00A Female LeadI'm sure by now you've started to notice a trend. I tend to read a lot of fantasy. It's just something that I highly enjoy, and all things considered there's nothing wrong with it. I love the fun and sometimes the insanity in it.<br /><br />Honestly, years ago I started writing a book of my own that would be classified as fantasy. The sad thing is, I haven't finished it. I always get distracted. But at least most of the distractions are good. Like the one I'm sharing with you today.<br /><br />Spooks and Magic<br />Jack Sorenson<br />458 pages<br /><br />Here we go, looking at another book about a magic school. Seems a shame that many people would brush it off as nothing more than a Harry Potter hopeful. But most readers that are choosing what they read themselves, as well as what they purchase to read, grew up reading about Mr. Potter, so they're likely to forever compare new books to those.<br /><br />Honestly though, this is a decently written piece. It's not perfect, but it flows well on the most part, and has many entertaining moments. The main characters are a bit different than some that we would be familiar with, though there are still characters we can imagine easily. A cranky professor, a confused student, an ancient wizard headmaster. But any of these familiar elements should not give a new reader a reason to write the book off as pointless.<br /><br />Because although it does contain many familiar elements, there are some fun twists and delightful use of imagination. The author uses an evil book, helpful ghosts, demons and trolls, presented in new ways to create his own new believable world.<br /><br />I enjoyed the fact that the main featured character is female. There are a number of stories where girls have been written off as damsels in distress, or as nothing more than support characters. This female lead, is not cut and dry on that matter, though it becomes clear quite quickly that she is the focus of the story.<br /><br />This story seems to be suitable for most readers, although there are some fairly gruesome moments. I doubt most seasoned fantasy readers would bat an eyelash though. If you read it don't be afraid to share your opinion.<br /><br />^_~ have fun reading.Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-50087963747367368652011-12-25T00:00:00.001-05:002011-12-25T00:11:18.806-05:00Celebrate!Well, since many people are celebrating this today, Merry Christmas! I hope that the day brings you joy and that you have a chance to sit back and enjoy the time you have. It seems there's never enough time anymore. We're so busy trying to make ends meet, and just stay alive, we barely have a chance to take a deep breathe and really look at what's going on around us.<br /><br />A lot of people say that this is the time of year to foster goodwill and peace among men. With that in mind I would like to make a recommendation to you. Please be open minded and here me out.<br /><br />A good number of us have opinions about other religions that are based on rumors or stereotypes, rather than facts. The media of today doesn't help with that either. Movies are often demonizing different groups and setting things up in favor of one group or another. If we look beyond these displays, we can see that in actuality there are more similarities than differences.<br /><br />So today, I'm going to recommend the following. Instead of judging someones ideas or background, their religion or nationality, Read something about it. Look into the actual texts. Educate yourself, and become more well rounded. Remember that not everyone is extreme, there are many people who's goal in life is to interact with others peacefully.<br /><br />That said, I am not going to recommend a specific text, but rather I am recommending that you learn to use your curiosity in order to make better decisions. We can see peace, we can see goodwill, but we have to remember that it starts with us. Our actions do influence the cations of others. Understanding how or why someone does something makes a big difference in how you see them.<br /><br />Anyway, enough of that. Have a splendid holiday, and please enjoy the chance to spend time with the people that you love, as well as the pleasant memories of the past. Thank you kindly also for thinking to give some of your time today to me. May peace be with you.<br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/bXOgn8-aEaA" allowfullscreen="" width="420" frameborder="0" height="315"></iframe>Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-91698021432641992102011-12-24T01:51:00.000-05:002011-12-24T02:10:57.643-05:00Because It's Christmas Eve......And I'm a sentimental old sot, I'm posting a classic reading for you. Yes I know that makes it sound like I'm not being creative, and I'm not letting a new author have a chance, but there are a few reasons for what I am doing in this post. Not that I really need to validate myself, or really give a reasoning for any of my reading choices. I read because I enjoy reading, but what are the reasons for to-days reading suggestion?<br /><br />One is that I'm commemorating a memory, and letting you get a glimpse into some of the things that my family is interested in. So, now let me explain and let you in on what's going on today. My father has always liked to watch the old black and white Christmas Carol film when its aired Christmas eve, much to most of our groans and irritated demeanor's, the memory has stuck with me. Now, cable wasn't something we had then, so that's why we often watched whatever was on, which frequently included this story.<br /><br />Another reason is because it's a well known story, but how many of us have ever actually read it? A Christmas Carol was originally written as a ghost story. In the past Christmas wasn't always about the shiny red paper, and the reindeer with a red nose. There was an undertone of 'the end' of things. It was a celebration during the coldest part of the year, when most things were frozen over, and people were kept inside due to temperatures. Oh, and back then it wasn't like they had tvs or radios either. People then shared stories. And often ghost stories were the most frequent ones told in the flickering light from the different flames.<br /><br />Yeah, that's what I thought. I'm sure a lot of you have seen some of the movies based on this old tale. I can't even think of all the titles they've come up with, or the variations.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">A Christmas Carol</span><br />Charles Dickens<br />82 pages<br /><br />I'm sure a lot of you groaned, or have already realized that it was going to be this book. First published in 1843 it really is amazing that it has kept a hold over people's imaginations. As I read the first page of actual story (my copy included a preface and a short biography in the front that took up maybe 4 pages) I realized why it has lasted so well.<br /><br />The attitudes of the characters are clear, and there seems to be different characters that each reader may love or agree with. (As long as it isn't Scrooge I suppose you're safe.) Impressively there seems to be a good many things in the story that appeal to me, even now. The language is great.<br /><br />But why read it when there are so many movies based on it? For one thing, reading it is something that can be done in a group if so wished, enabling you to create new opinions about the characters. Not only that you can find ways to make your own interpretations of what a character would sound like. This would definitely be fun to read in the round, passing it around, and hearing how different people express a statement.<br /><br />Anyways, have a good Christmas eve if that's what you're celebrating.Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-35647234328448773932011-12-23T11:30:00.001-05:002011-12-23T12:00:49.815-05:00Another Angel gets His WingsOk, so I couldn't leave you with that other story. I felt cheated by it, so I decided to hunt up another one that would be more suitable. (though, I'm not really sure how much more)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Yuletide Magic</span><br />Jamieson Wolf<br />42 pages<br /><br />This story has many similarities to a number of popular holiday tales and themes that help to make it appealing. It's a Wonderful Life, A Christmas Carol, as well as the terrors of working retail around the holidays. (There's nothing as awful as being an 'elf' 2 nights before Christmas.)<br /><br />The story itself though, explores one woman's progression from someone who loved celebrating Christmas, into one who preferred not to celebrate it at all. The reasoning the author gives us, would elicit sympathy from many readers. Many of us have had siblings destroy a new toy, and generally there's consequences for those actions. So when the actions are described there's a bit of a surprised feel to them happening.<br /><br />I think the real point of the story is how family is important, even if there's been hurt and anger in the relationship. Time can create change, things do not always stay the same. And change as many people know can be both good and bad, as it lets us see where we err as well as what we can improve on. Sometimes it can be hard to see when things are wrong at first, but there's always a chance it will become clear.<br /><br />I recommend this as a read for teens and adults due to some of the content. (I think on Smash, the author tagged it as possibly offensive to some, and audience of 17+, but I'm not entirely sure I'm remembering that right.) Yes there are many moments where alcohol is mentioned, as well as smoking. But these are 'legal' activities.<br /><br />oh, and a slight spoiler I guess, but I liked how the author mentioned going to a Homeless Center and spending time with the people there. Because the statement that is made at this point is true, they're people too. Not everyone treats them that way, but they do appreciate the ones that do. It's the same thing in general in my honesty opinion though. People, like to be treated like they're people. By treating others as you'd like to be treated, there's a common courtesy expressed that shows you appreciate them for who and what they are.<br /><br />Oh, and an Angel named Greyhound. That's definitely a reason to read it(it's amusing). Have a good time, and enjoy your holiday reading if you're reading by theme. Have a safe and joyful holiday! (see you tomorrow ^_~)Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1039645268452447754.post-27734100098201869152011-12-23T01:11:00.006-05:002011-12-23T11:43:19.538-05:00Not really a Solstice StoryI'm always on the look out for stories that may be used to show other people how different people celebrate holidays they may not know themselves. So when I found the piece that I'm going to tell you about today, I had high hopes. They were mostly dashed to be honest, But the story has a saving grace. It is very amusing.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">::Content may offend Some::</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">'Twas The Night Before Solstice</span><br />Celeste Drolle<br />5 pages<br /><br />Before you get excited about this post, please let me disappoint you. You're not going to be reading a piece looking at Solstice in the pagan sense, or even the fairy sense. It's a spoof of the old <span style="font-weight: bold;">'Twas The Night Before Christmas</span> story/poem with a focus on drugs.<br /><br />The descriptions rely on some stereotyping, but the rhyming is done well. The descriptions of some of the characters made me laugh, but I am glad that it wasn't any longer than it is. If it was any longer it might have been too distasteful.<br /><br />I must <span style="font-weight: bold;">STRONGLY</span> state that this is <span style="font-weight: bold;">NOT</span> intended for young readers. The content of the piece is intended for responsible adults. Especially those that may dabble in alternative life choices. (It's an amusing piece, that they might understand better than people with no experience with the issues at hand).<br /><br />I was disappointed that the piece wasn't pagan at all. The title gave me high hopes. (serves me right, in the future i will have to be far more particular when I read the descriptions). So my real complaint is that I feel I was mislead. true, not all readers would jump to the same conclusion that I did, but I am sure more have than will willingly admit it.<br /><br />3 stars simply because of entertainment value, and good rhyming, otherwise it would get 2.Dyre Dreamscapehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08676386585005472449noreply@blogger.com0