Ok, 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.
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.
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.
Anyway, I'm back. You're going to be seeing a bit more of me now, I think things will be ok.
Welcome 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!
Showing posts with label E-books. Show all posts
Showing posts with label E-books. Show all posts
Friday, May 10, 2013
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Something Different For Valentine's Day
To 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)
Fixing Cupid
Cristian YoungMiller
438 pages
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
I guess I'm a sucker for a happy ending.
Fixing Cupid
Cristian YoungMiller
438 pages
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
I guess I'm a sucker for a happy ending.
Friday, December 23, 2011
Another Angel gets His Wings
Ok, 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)
Yuletide Magic
Jamieson Wolf
42 pages
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.)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 ^_~)
Yuletide Magic
Jamieson Wolf
42 pages
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.)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 ^_~)
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Not The Wands You Know
I have a very bad habit. I download books not by content or for any specific reason. I generally just get them by genre.
Deadly Wands
Brent Reilly
683 pages
In many popular books wands are generally used as tools to create or interact. They are frequently used for magic, and performing other amazing tasks. Not in this book though. Instead they are the equivalent to jet packs, guns, and other various items that aid in mass destruction and help create a war like atmosphere.
This book is unique in the way it presents an alternate world history. It demonstrates knowledge about tactics, as well as ways that various cultures interact. It's based in a fictional copy of our world, so a lot of the places named are ones the reader will know or recognize.
I was amused by the authors choice of main villain : Genghis Khan. Basically Khan has created an imperialist empire by conquering most of the world. He has armed his fighters with wands which other countries do not have access to. These wands enable the users to fly, shoot flames, and fight with weightless swords extended from the wands.
The main protagonist is Billy the Kid. Most of this book examines the various details of his life,from child to "adult" we see him as he develops. We learn about what angers him, what he believes in, as well as what he is willing to die for.
A major theme is the importance of family. It seems like every other page or two reflects on some aspect of family. Whether it's who your uncle is, or who your great great great grandfather is. Truthfully it is intriguing to think that there are folk that would be as concerned about their lineage as the ones that are in this book.
The ending of this piece is rather open, leaving me wonder if there is or will be a sequel.
There area few reasons that I won't recommend this piece for young readers. One of the major ones is sex. There is a running stream of commentary that implies procreation to simply extend ones lineage outward is appropriate. I'm not saying that some people wouldn't agree with the idea, I just do not think it is a point that the youth of today need stressed to them. Also, while sex is a major topic, it is far from romantic in nature. It is not descriptive and tantalizing like some of the more erotic pieces I've read. Oh, there is not an extensive amount of foul language (which is pleasant), but there is a large number of descriptions that to some may seem gory.
Content Recommended for Mature Audiences.
Deadly Wands
Brent Reilly
683 pages
In many popular books wands are generally used as tools to create or interact. They are frequently used for magic, and performing other amazing tasks. Not in this book though. Instead they are the equivalent to jet packs, guns, and other various items that aid in mass destruction and help create a war like atmosphere.
This book is unique in the way it presents an alternate world history. It demonstrates knowledge about tactics, as well as ways that various cultures interact. It's based in a fictional copy of our world, so a lot of the places named are ones the reader will know or recognize.
I was amused by the authors choice of main villain : Genghis Khan. Basically Khan has created an imperialist empire by conquering most of the world. He has armed his fighters with wands which other countries do not have access to. These wands enable the users to fly, shoot flames, and fight with weightless swords extended from the wands.
The main protagonist is Billy the Kid. Most of this book examines the various details of his life,from child to "adult" we see him as he develops. We learn about what angers him, what he believes in, as well as what he is willing to die for.
A major theme is the importance of family. It seems like every other page or two reflects on some aspect of family. Whether it's who your uncle is, or who your great great great grandfather is. Truthfully it is intriguing to think that there are folk that would be as concerned about their lineage as the ones that are in this book.
The ending of this piece is rather open, leaving me wonder if there is or will be a sequel.
There area few reasons that I won't recommend this piece for young readers. One of the major ones is sex. There is a running stream of commentary that implies procreation to simply extend ones lineage outward is appropriate. I'm not saying that some people wouldn't agree with the idea, I just do not think it is a point that the youth of today need stressed to them. Also, while sex is a major topic, it is far from romantic in nature. It is not descriptive and tantalizing like some of the more erotic pieces I've read. Oh, there is not an extensive amount of foul language (which is pleasant), but there is a large number of descriptions that to some may seem gory.
Content Recommended for Mature Audiences.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
The October Quick Reads
A lot honestly, I just keep forgetting to put the books back on the shelf here for you to see. Today I read a handful of short stories, all of which were fairly different. But they all had something in common, they have characters familiar to the Halloween scene that is going on this month.
Each were enjoyable in their own ways, and each one had a different theme. Most are available free via Smashwords if you are interested in reading them. Or if you have a nook they can be found on the Barnes and Noble website.
The Vampire Shortstop by Scott Nicholson
This story is charming and sad at the same time. It's about little league and as the title states, a Vampire Shortstop, but it also shows how a town reacts to a player that is different. If any of your kids play the game, they may enjoy it as well, but please read it before you let them read it as the story might be a bit strong for some age groups.
Why I Slept Through Halloween by H Jason Schulz
Schulz makes fun of a bunch of stereotyped actions and events that happen in a teens life in this short but amusing tale. Unlike most, it has a clear and simple show of action and consequence. I'd recommend it for readers 12 and up, though younger readers may enjoy it as well.
Ouija Be My Friend? by Tarmin P. Lupo
This fast paced story leaves the reader on a cliffhanger to decide for themselves what happens. Featuring a Ouija board in an unexpected place (a nursing home), you get taken on a fast roller coaster of who did it moments. You could end up surprised, or you might just laugh. Recommend this for ages 14 and up, as there it can be seen as fairly dark.
Hecate's Collar of Bones by Jill Zeller
This story is a look at life and death from the eyes of someone that works very close to Death. It looks at how he views the world around him, and the realizations that come from being so close to Death. It is a pleasant, clean story. But not recommended for young readers.
Vatican Vamps by Megan Hammer
This story takes a quick peek into the lives of vampires that do not crackle pop and sizzle in the confines of a church or holy space. That in and of itself seemed interesting. If you are one of those people who enjoyed Twilight, it may be a fun read as it is a different approach. Even if you didn't care for twilight, it had an awesome twist ending.
Some Summonings are Suspect by Jeffery Somogyi
The title of this story left me wondering what to expect. I got something a lot different than i had expected too. I got laughs. I was expecting a horror story, which yes, there are elements of horror, but this particular story seems to be presented as a mockery. It is adorable, but like The Vampire Short Stop I would recommend reading it before letting your child read it, as some of it might be a bit much for them.
Well, that's a short view of what I've recently read, when I finish the next book I'm reading I will get back to you. Have fun, and enjoy the written word! Pick up a book, they do your mind good.
Each were enjoyable in their own ways, and each one had a different theme. Most are available free via Smashwords if you are interested in reading them. Or if you have a nook they can be found on the Barnes and Noble website.
The Vampire Shortstop by Scott Nicholson
This story is charming and sad at the same time. It's about little league and as the title states, a Vampire Shortstop, but it also shows how a town reacts to a player that is different. If any of your kids play the game, they may enjoy it as well, but please read it before you let them read it as the story might be a bit strong for some age groups.
Why I Slept Through Halloween by H Jason Schulz
Schulz makes fun of a bunch of stereotyped actions and events that happen in a teens life in this short but amusing tale. Unlike most, it has a clear and simple show of action and consequence. I'd recommend it for readers 12 and up, though younger readers may enjoy it as well.
Ouija Be My Friend? by Tarmin P. Lupo
This fast paced story leaves the reader on a cliffhanger to decide for themselves what happens. Featuring a Ouija board in an unexpected place (a nursing home), you get taken on a fast roller coaster of who did it moments. You could end up surprised, or you might just laugh. Recommend this for ages 14 and up, as there it can be seen as fairly dark.
Hecate's Collar of Bones by Jill Zeller
This story is a look at life and death from the eyes of someone that works very close to Death. It looks at how he views the world around him, and the realizations that come from being so close to Death. It is a pleasant, clean story. But not recommended for young readers.
Vatican Vamps by Megan Hammer
This story takes a quick peek into the lives of vampires that do not crackle pop and sizzle in the confines of a church or holy space. That in and of itself seemed interesting. If you are one of those people who enjoyed Twilight, it may be a fun read as it is a different approach. Even if you didn't care for twilight, it had an awesome twist ending.
Some Summonings are Suspect by Jeffery Somogyi
The title of this story left me wondering what to expect. I got something a lot different than i had expected too. I got laughs. I was expecting a horror story, which yes, there are elements of horror, but this particular story seems to be presented as a mockery. It is adorable, but like The Vampire Short Stop I would recommend reading it before letting your child read it, as some of it might be a bit much for them.
Well, that's a short view of what I've recently read, when I finish the next book I'm reading I will get back to you. Have fun, and enjoy the written word! Pick up a book, they do your mind good.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
To start a bookshelf......
We're going to need some books.
There's no limit to the things that you can do digitally these days. Everything seems to be changing as people strive to go green, or save money. Not that there's a reason to complain about the desire to do either of these things.
What's wonderful though for those of us that enjoy books are all of the pdf and e-book readers that are becoming available. True they're initially an expensive investment. But they open you up to thousands of new books you might not otherwise read. Most of which will only cost you the amount of time it takes to collect them.
Now, That may sound silly to you now. But think about how much money you spend on books each year. Let's say you buy one book each month, you can easily spend upwards of $84.00 a year, figuring an average book cost of $6.99 a piece. Honestly that's a very low balled price since I myself have been known to purchase books that cost more that tewnty bucks a piece.
Anyway, what's really nice these days are all the websites that grant access to books in various digital formats, free of charge. True, not all the books available in this manner are by authors you can automatically recognize. But there are a huge number of the worlds classic literature pieces available for anyone to download and enjoy. One site that provides classics in various digital formats is Project Gutenberg. ( http://www.gutenberg.org )
Now I know some of you likely have read your fill of classic pieces, and may have no interest in reading them. You're probably asking what kind of places are there available for you to get books at? Me, I've located two sites that have worked well on satiating my desire for new books. Both of the following sites I'll be writing about provide both free and reasonably priced books.
WOWIO ( http://www.wowio.com/ ) has everything from history bites to romance novels. And depending on who is sponsoring the site at any given time there is a huge variety of different books available free to their site members. What they do, is the sponsor pays for the book, and you receive the book of your choice with an advertisement for the sponsor included in the file. This leads to a reader being able to create a diverse library for free.
Smashwords ( http://www.smashwords.com/ )is different than WOWIO in that it offers books by independent authors. Indie writing can be very enjoyable to read. Some authors offer pieces for free in order to get people interested in their writing. Other authors list their books at low almost non committal prices. This is nice for those of us who are uncertain about what kind of book we are getting, allowing for a comfortable creation of a mild fandom.
Of course these are only a small number of the sites available to readers. So... why is this important anyway? I'm going to be writing here about the books I read. Hard copy books as well as digital editions. If you have any book recommendations, or a site to recommend, feel free to let me know!
CHEERS!
There's no limit to the things that you can do digitally these days. Everything seems to be changing as people strive to go green, or save money. Not that there's a reason to complain about the desire to do either of these things.
What's wonderful though for those of us that enjoy books are all of the pdf and e-book readers that are becoming available. True they're initially an expensive investment. But they open you up to thousands of new books you might not otherwise read. Most of which will only cost you the amount of time it takes to collect them.
Now, That may sound silly to you now. But think about how much money you spend on books each year. Let's say you buy one book each month, you can easily spend upwards of $84.00 a year, figuring an average book cost of $6.99 a piece. Honestly that's a very low balled price since I myself have been known to purchase books that cost more that tewnty bucks a piece.
Anyway, what's really nice these days are all the websites that grant access to books in various digital formats, free of charge. True, not all the books available in this manner are by authors you can automatically recognize. But there are a huge number of the worlds classic literature pieces available for anyone to download and enjoy. One site that provides classics in various digital formats is Project Gutenberg. ( http://www.gutenberg.org )
Now I know some of you likely have read your fill of classic pieces, and may have no interest in reading them. You're probably asking what kind of places are there available for you to get books at? Me, I've located two sites that have worked well on satiating my desire for new books. Both of the following sites I'll be writing about provide both free and reasonably priced books.
WOWIO ( http://www.wowio.com/ ) has everything from history bites to romance novels. And depending on who is sponsoring the site at any given time there is a huge variety of different books available free to their site members. What they do, is the sponsor pays for the book, and you receive the book of your choice with an advertisement for the sponsor included in the file. This leads to a reader being able to create a diverse library for free.
Smashwords ( http://www.smashwords.com/ )is different than WOWIO in that it offers books by independent authors. Indie writing can be very enjoyable to read. Some authors offer pieces for free in order to get people interested in their writing. Other authors list their books at low almost non committal prices. This is nice for those of us who are uncertain about what kind of book we are getting, allowing for a comfortable creation of a mild fandom.
Of course these are only a small number of the sites available to readers. So... why is this important anyway? I'm going to be writing here about the books I read. Hard copy books as well as digital editions. If you have any book recommendations, or a site to recommend, feel free to let me know!
CHEERS!
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