Halloween help?

Thursday, September 30, 2010

I feel funny that I am posting this up because this blog post is pretty random, and definitely not book related at all.. but I thought I'd ask you guys anyway because I love hearing all your suggestions and input and I feel like all of you are my blogger friends anyway. So I thought, why not?My question is; do you guys have any Halloween costume suggestions?? Anything at all; I'm open with pretty much any idea. Last year, I was a flower child hippie. That was a lot of fun!

This year, I wanted to be Effy Stonem from the UK show Skins, but nobody knows who she is around here! LOL. So I changed ideas and am sort of leaning on the Rosie the Riveter costume idea, but not really. See, I'm very indecisive. My friends and I don't even know what we want to do yet. Nothing is sure yet! But what do you guys think I should be? And what are you going to be? Anyway, I hope this isn't too random and weird to ask! Hehe. Thank you so much! :D

top ten picks hiatus + a survey

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Top Ten Picks has taken and will continue to take a brief hiatus; for the simple reason that I just haven't been getting much inspiration to do them lately. I haven't been able to come up with good and general topics that we all could and would be enthusiastic about. And honestly, I don't want to make a list just to make a list. I don't want to just to post something to satisfy the week's "requirement" or quota. I want this meme to be fun for me and for all, and if a short break from it is what's needed to reevaluate everything and make it even better, then I think I should do just that. I sincerely hope you don't mind.

In the meantime, you can always go back to the previous topics, as you can link up your list any time. And if you want more lists like mine, do check out The Broke and the Bookish's similar meme, Top Ten Tuesdays!

Also..

I need your help!

I figured this would be the perfect way to ask you all for some feedback! Random Ramblings has been up and running since January 10, 2010 and would love to hear from you and what you really think of the blog. Any kind of feedback is welcome! Positive, negative.. I'll take it. Just go fill out the FORM here. It's completely anonymous.

Thanks so very much guys for the time, for understanding, and for filling out the form!



The Lonely Hearts Club by Elizabeth Eulberg

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Genre: Young Adult
Synopsis: Penny is sick of boys and sick of dating. So she vows: no more. It's a personal choice. . .and, of course, soon everyone wants to know about it. And a few other girls are inspired. A movement is born: The Lonely Hearts Club (named after the band from Sgt. Pepper). Penny is suddenly known for her nondating ways . . . which is too bad, because there's this certain boy she can't help but like.

Rating: 4 stars

Review: This book was so cute! I really enjoyed it, and was entertained all throughout. Yeah, the plot line isn't deep or heavy, and it certainly doesn't talk about an "important" issue or message, but it's just such a simple and fun book that I don't even care! It's just one of those stories that are able to bring me back to those days in high school (and maybe even in elementary and middle school) when all I had to worry about were school, extracurricular activities, friends, and crushes. It was so plain, simple, and much easier back then -- for me at least. It's nice to reminisce sometimes, and The Lonely Hearts Club definitely brings me back to those memorable moments.

It's just one of those books where I can imagine reading if I wanted to kill time. I'd pick this up if I wanted something really simple, light-hearted, and fun. I could be traveling, in the car during a long drive or on the plane. It's refreshing to read something as light like this every once in a while.

I recommend this to those who are in high school and to actual teenagers as I think they would appreciate this a little more. Adults might not enjoy this as much, most especially if you're too busy to read to begin with and you would prefer to pick your books more carefully. It's most definitely not for everyone. But if you have some time to kill, and you like "beach reads" like this every once in a while, then I say go for it. It's a pretty cute "high school-I hate boys because they're such jerks-story." I know I enjoyed it. It's cute! It's fun. Sometimes, that's exactly what I just need.

Character Inspired Outfits + a challenge

Monday, September 27, 2010

The first time I did this on Polyvore, I focused on the women in the Classics genre, and what they would wear today, right now. I had a lot of fun making those sets of wardrobe, so I decided to do it again. This time, it's dedicated to the girls, ladies, and women of the YA genre. Note that these outfits are simply my interpretations; inspired by the characters only. It does not necessarily show how they would actually look like or dress.

...

Stargirl
Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli
Stargirl inspired


Hermione Granger
Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling
Hermione inspired


Annabeth Chase
Percy Jackson and the Olympians series by Rick Riordan
Annabeth Chase inspired


Clary Fray
Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare
Clary Fray


Luna Lovegood
Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling
Luna Lovegood Inspired




Katniss Everdeen

The Hunger Games trilogy by Suzanne Collins
Katniss Everdeen



Brittany Ellis
Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles
Brittany Ellis - Perfect Chemistry


Carrie Bradshaw - teenage version
Sex and the City
Teenage Carrie Bradshaw


Now for the fun part! I challenge you to create your own wardrobe/outfit inspired by any character from a book. It could be from any genre. You can use Polyvore, and then show me the link to your creation. You can either post it on your blog or you can just link me to your actual Polyvore account. Signing up is fast, free, and easy by the way; an email address is all that's required so don't worry about that part. A week from today, if there's at least 3 people who did this challenge, I'll be posting up their creations up here on the blog.
Also, Let me know if you have any suggestions for future Polyvore characters! Have fun creating your own outfits :)

Tell Me A Secret by Holly Cupala

Sunday, September 26, 2010

Genre: Young Adult
Synopsis: In the five years since her bad-girl sister Xanda’s death, Miranda Mathison has wondered about the secret her sister took to the grave, and what really happened the night she died. Now, just as Miranda is on the cusp of her dreams—a best friend to unlock her sister’s world, a ticket to art school, and a boyfriend to fly her away from it all—Miranda has a secret all her own.
Then two lines on a pregnancy test confirm her worst fears. Stripped of her former life, Miranda must make a choice with tremendous consequences and finally face her sister’s demons and her own.

Rating: 3 stars

Pros: The best part about this book is Holly Cupala and her writing; her narratives are engaging and her story telling is as natural as it can be. It is simply effortless, and it flows as if I am simply reading a close friend's diary/journal.
Another thing I liked about the book is how fast paced it is, and the fact that I never found myself bored with it. I actually had a difficult time putting it down. I didn't want to, as I truly wanted to find out what happens next, and the "secrets" in the story. The story itself caught my attention, and kept me interested throughout.

Cons: Character and plot development were disappointing for me. Truthfully, I actually ended up disliking every single character in the book. I didn't understand, connect, or empathize with any of them; not even with the main protagonist.
As for the plot development, I just felt as if it was a bit anticlimactic. When it was time for the secrets to be "revealed..." I immediately thought to myself, "That's it??" I was not content with how the story was wrapped up, and there were too many loose ends left. It was just underwhelming.

Overall: I thought the book was okay. It was a good enough read because as I said, the story telling is great. However, the plot fell flat. The conclusion was out of nowhere and felt like it happened all of a sudden. Also, I couldn't bring myself to care about the characters, which is the biggest turn off for me. I don't know why exactly I couldn't find myself to connect with the story; I just didn't. I can see how some YA readers may like this -- as it has gotten mostly 4-5 star reviews -- but unfortunately, it just wasn't for me.

The Reckoning by Kelley Armstrong

Saturday, September 25, 2010

Genre: Young Adult - Paranormal
Synopsis: None for this one, as to not give away spoilers. This is the final installment in the trilogy.

Rating: 3.5 stars

Review: I'm happy I finally got to finish this. As I liked the first one, and LOVED the sequel, I couldn't wait to find out more and find out what the ending would be. This final book in the trilogy was most definitely a great addition and conclusion to the story.

It still had the same excitement, same great writing, and same fast face and effortless flow. I was still rooting for the characters, and like I have mentioned before, I do think the characters are one of the book's greatest strengths. They're just the kind of characters I don't mind rooting and cheering for until the end, and to me, that is really important to hold my attention when it comes to series and trilogies.

There are some minor flaws, including the cover art for these books. I still don't get what the reason is behind the changing jewels. I don't know. Is it just me? Let me know if you understood it better I did.

Overall, I really liked it a lot, and as a whole, I enjoyed the story and the characters immensely. I recommend this series to YA-Paranormal fans!

Book Banning: a bit of a rant

Friday, September 24, 2010

For banned books week, the library where I live designated a special shelf with all the banned books and the reasons as to why they were either challenged or taken off the school education system. Some of the reasons were just downright crazy, and it just irked me so much. I decided to get it out and write a post; I already apologize for the rant.

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People who ban books. If you're reading this, I truly wonder; why do you do it? I really do wonder what your purpose is. Are you that incredibly sensitive towards these matters that once you find something that remotely offends you or ticks you off you'd just go ahead and lash out against it?
Who told you that you had the right to tell others what to read and what not to read? Who told you that you had that kind of power to take away something that others might find useful, interesting, or even just plain entertaining? Just because you didn't like something doesn't mean that everyone else won't like it. Just because you think it's inappropriate doesn't entirely mean it's inappropriate for everyone else. Just because you think you're right, doesn't automatically mean you are.
Did it ever come across your mind that, 'oh hey, maybe I'm just being an immature and close-minded person.' That maybe you're just ruining something for everyone else? Seriously, if you didn't like a book -- or a movie or whatever -- get over it. Go ahead and tell your kids not to read it or watch it, but leave everyone else alone. You can think for yourself, let others do the same.

do you quote books and make book-related jokes??

Thursday, September 23, 2010

If you are obsessed with anything remotely "nerdy" (aka LOTR, Harry Potter, Star Wars, etc) then this video is for you.. and for me. Because personally, as you all know by now, I like to quote movies and books, and make jokes related to them. I know not everyone gets what I say sometimes, but often, there are some people who laugh at my jokes, making me feel like they get it! But then the day comes that you realize that they actually don't... get it.. at all. So what were they laughing at? This video is all that. It cracked me up because.. well, you'll see.


Inspiration: Fall

Though I'm sad Summer has come and gone, I'm also very ecstatic that Fall is here!! I love this season. The weather, first of all, is just perfect; Not-so-hot and not-so-cold. There are so many other reasons why I am in love with this season though, and I simply can not name them all. Instead, I decided to do an inspiration post. I haven't done one in a while, so I thought it'd be perfect to do one right now, to commemorate the very first week of the new wonderful season.

And while you look at some of these photos, listen to this song. For some reason, I feel like it goes with it. I have no idea what the song is about -- since I don't understand and speak French -- but it has a beautiful melody and it evokes certain emotions only good music can do. Enjoy!



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Charity Event Update!

How much so far: $220
Until when: October 31
How many winners? 7 winners
If you helped us spread the word: fill out this form right here! You can now win a prize too.
The prizes you can win: 16 books, 50+ signed swag, $40 CSN gift certificate - complete list
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I hope you continue to support it, and if you'd like to any contact us, you can reach us through our email: helpacharityevent@gmail.com. Till the next update! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

- Jillian, Raila, Linna




He thinks rape is "soft pornography."

Sunday, September 19, 2010

This is my response to Wesley Croggins -- the one that says that Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson is "filthy" and can be considered as "soft pornography."

In the article he wrote, he says, "In high school English classes, children are required to read and view material that should be classified as soft pornography." He says this because of the two rape scenes in the book. Also, he states, "This is unacceptable, considering that most of the school board members and administrators claim to be Christian. How can Christian men and women expose children to such immorality? Parents, it is time you get involved!"

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I'm going to go on ahead and say I am Catholic. I was raised by a Catholic family, and even went to a Catholic school for more than 5 years. If I let my mother, my grandmother, and even my teachers read Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson, I highly doubt they will say it is immoral. Since when is a book trying to help out others who are in need with some horrible situations, immoral??

To me, the power of the novel by Laurie Halse Anderson is that it is a way to communicate to those who are affected, to those who can relate to the story and the characters. The novel speaks directly to them, letting them know they are not alone, and that they do not have to be afraid to open up. Without a doubt, Speak has touched a lot of lives; teens, parents, educators, and many others -- and taught them that it's okay to be vulnerable, it's okay to seek for help, it's okay to speak up. It gives hope, and it gives strength. That is the point of the novel, at least to me.

My message to Wesley Croggins is this:
You want to ban the book because you think it is inappropriate. And apparently, you see rape as "porn" now. I don't know where you got that, and how you came about to thinking that, but to me, that's just completely absurd. I don't think there are words to describe how unbelievably insensitive and outrageous -- not to mention out of line -- that comment is.
Also, you don't have to like the book. You don't even have to read it or recommend it to anyone else. But for you to judge it with a general and biased point of view, suggest to ban it because you think a certain way, is simply unfair. Besides, who do you think you are to tell others what they should or should not read?
When you wrote that article, were you really thinking? And I mean, really thinking. Did it ever occur to you that maybe rape victims and victims of abuse in general could have been helped by the novel? Did you think of those who are unable to say a word and speak up due to fear of people not believing in them? Did you think of them and how novels like Speak might have helped them get through such a tough time? Obviously not, because what you want is to take away something that might help others who might need them in the future.

I can not force you to think otherwise, but I hope you know many have been offended and hurt with those said comments, and I can only wish that next time, you would at least try to respect the issue, respect the people involved, and keep more of an open mind. At least that.

My message to adults, including parents and educators:
Yes, like the author of the hateful article said, do "get involved!" Read the book. See for yourself.

* Write a letter to the editor of Springfield's News-Leader

my mom's reading habit

Saturday, September 18, 2010

It's my mom's birthday today, September 18th, so I decided to go ahead and dedicate a bookish post about her and her famous funny reading habit.

My mom loves to read. She's always loved books, and while her reading taste is eclectic, her favorite ones to devour are Mysteries and Crime Thrillers. She rarely has time to read now that she has such a busy schedule, but sometimes, she picks up a book, and takes the time to sit down, relax, and tries to finish it. The thing with her though is that while she loves mysteries, she simply can't -- and I mean, absolutely can not -- stand the wait and the suspense! So what she does is.. she goes to the last few chapters/pages and reads from there. She finds out who the suspect is, what the twist is, and how everything will end. When she's done doing this, she goes to back to the first chapter and begins to read with all that knowledge already in her head. She just can't stand not knowing.. I keep telling her she's weird and I would never be able to do that! But that's just how she has always been, and the truth is, she's even like that with slow movies too! I really don't know anybody else with that kind of reading style, so I thought I'd share. Hahaha.

Happy Birthday, Mommy. I love you!


City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

Genre: Young Adult - fantasy/paranormal
Synopsis: This is Clary's first meeting with the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the earth of demons. It's also her first encounter with Jace, a Shadowhunter who looks a little like an angel and acts a lot like a jerk. Within twenty-four hours Clary is pulled into Jace's world with a vengeance, when her mother disappears and Clary herself is attacked by a demon. But why would demons be interested in ordinary mundanes like Clary and her mother? And how did Clary suddenly get the Sight? The Shadowhunters would like to know....

Rating:
3.5 stars

Review: Since this is a rather popular book and series, I decided to do my review a little bit different than usual. I'll simply list the pros and cons, and my overall thoughts on the book.

Pros: The author, Cassandra Clare, sure is a natural story teller. I think to me it was one of the book's greatest strengths. It's somewhat of a lengthy book, but I was never bored with it mainly because she just knows the right way to grab a reader's attention. Her writing simply flowed so well, almost without effort, and the pace was fast and perfect. I liked the characters a lot, and thought they were very likable, especially the main protagonist, Clary, and her best friend, Simon. Generally, I thought that City of Bones was a great introduction to a promising series, and was very entertaining.

Cons: One of the things I want most in a book about a fantasy world, is originality. I thought there were a lot of sub-plots in City of Bones that simply reminded me of other story lines I have read before. There are are just so many recycled ones, it just turns me off from the story somehow.
Second negative thing is Jace. I am very indifferent about his character. He's cool and all, but there's just something not very likable about him to me. Maybe I just don't find the whole "bad boy" persona appealing, and I don't even think the way he was portrayed as one was believable either. Then again, maybe that's just me.

Overall: Ultimately, while I don't think it's the "best book ever," I do think it is as entertaining and interesting as everyone says it is. I recommend it to YA readers, and fans of fantasy/paranormal YA as I think that particular audience will appreciate this story line the most. It's a great story world to live in, and while I'm not running to get my hands on the sequel, I'd still want to read it in the near future, and I do think it is worth your time.

Book Recommendation of the Week

Friday, September 17, 2010

This is a weekly feature here on the blog where I will basically recommend ONE specific book that I have read, and loved. It could be something I recently just read, or a one from five years ago. Doesn't matter when; if I feel as if a lot of people might like it as much as I do, then I'll recommend it! This week.. I recommend..

The Surgeon by Tess Gerritsen
Genre: Thriller/Suspense - mystery
When I Read It: 2008
Synopsis: A serial killer is on the loose in Boston. The victims are killed in a particularly nasty way: cut with a scalpel on the stomach, the intestines and uterus removed, and then the throat slashed. The killer obviously has medical knowledge and has been dubbed "the Surgeon" by the media. Detective Thomas Moore and his partner Rizzoli of the Boston Homicide Unit have discovered something that makes this case even more chilling. Years ago in Savannah a serial killer murdered in exactly the same way. He was finally stopped by his last victim, who shot him as he tried to cut her. That last victim is Dr. Catherine Cordell, who now works as a cardiac surgeon at one of Boston's prestigious hospitals. As the murders continue, it becomes obvious that the killer is drawing closer and closer to Dr. Cordell, who is becoming so frightened that she is virtually unable to function. But she is the only person who can help the police catch this copycat killer. Or is it a copycat? To complicate matters even further, Detective Moore, often referred to as Saint Thomas as he continues to mourn the loss of his wife, is getting emotionally involved with the doctor.

Recommended if:
1) you like the genre, 2) you actually like being scared a bit, and 3) if you're like me. I'm obsessed with mystery/thrillers and suspense, but I don't actually read as much. So when I do read them, I want to be wow-ed. This one definitely did that for me.

Ages: Mature readers 15+ and adults. This is a violent and mature book, so judge for yourself if you would enjoy something like this despite the sometimes difficult-to-read themes and topics.

Why I Loved It: Because it is extremely well-written! I can not stress that enough. It's what nightmares are made of, at least to me. Plus, it's everything that you would expect from a mystery/suspense/thriller; exciting, scary, and nerve racking all at the same time! When I first read this book, I was so nervous all throughout, and even when I was finished with it, I still kept thinking about it. It's just so creative, and masterfully crafted.

I am obsessed with..

Thursday, September 16, 2010

This is a pretty random post, but I decided to do it anyway because I felt like it. I just wanted to share some random things I'm obsessed with..
  • Getting new books to read. Whether they're borrowed from the library, from a friend, and/or bought from the bookstore, I don't really care. There's just something about getting my hands on new books, and it's even better when I have never read them before. It's like finding a treasure box, with a bottomless pit, and the possibilities of finding such luxuries are endless!
  • (500) days of Summer. Have I ever told you that since I watched this a year ago, it has become one of my favorite romantic comedies! (Others include: You've Got Mail, My Best Friend's Wedding, Love Actually) There's something so fascinating, inspiring, and just plain awesome with (500) days of Summer. Maybe it's the wonderful music behind it, the really great portrayal of LA, the unique anti-chick flick story itself, the empathetic characters, the comedy, the heartwarming scenes.. it could also be because Joseph Gordon Levitt is one of my actor-crushes, and Zooey Deschanel is my #1 girl crush. Yup, it's all those reasons plus more. The writing's excellent, and it's just so funny. It's a great movie! Have you seen it yet?? Because you haven't, I think you should..
  • Iced Tea with Lemon. Recently, my mother bought this huge box of black teas that are especially made to be iced beverages. It seems as if every night I make myself one. It's just refreshing, and all-natural, so it doesn't feel like I'm drinking junk!
  • weheartit.com - I am obsessed with beautiful images and pictures, and inspiring photography.
  • Granola Bars. Seriously, my friends always tell me, "You and your granola bars." These are my go-to breakfast, and mid day snack foods. They're healthy, yet I feel like I'm eating a chocolate bar! I think I have tried every brand there is..
  • So You Think You Can Dance. Have you ever seen a dance routine from this show?! They are amaaaazzziiinnggg. This is a show that acts a bit like American Idol, but honestly for me, I don't care about the show itself.. just the dancers. They are so artistic and talented I can not stop raving about their talent and abilities! See this for just one quick sample. Let me know if you watched the linked video.
  • Mean Girls. This movie will NEVER get old. It's the ultimate movie every girl/teen/woman should watch for fun, and jokes related to this will never get old to me..
  • Ballet Flats. In all colors, but preferably black. They go with everything and with any kind of style! Some tell me that I'm crazy because they think ballet flats are uncomfortable, but I guess, I've just been so used to them and accustomed to them that it's my first choice not only for style but for comfort as well! I live in them!
  • Lip Gloss. I am not really that much of a girly girl, but I have always been obsessed with lip glosses. I collect them, and have a whole box full of them!
  • Notebooks. Different kinds. Different designs. For different purposes. I just like having them around.
What are some things you've always been or are currently obsessed with?

Book Blogger Hop

Welcome to my blog! If you came here from the Book Blogger Hop over at Crazy-for-Books, thanks for visiting! This is where I talk, rant, rave, and gush about all things, books!
  • Don't forget that we still have a special Charity Event: fundraiser and huge giveaway going on until October 31st! Help children in need, spread the word, and you can be one of the 7 winners of 10+ books, 50+ signed swag, and a $40 CSN gift certificate. Click here to find out how to enter!
I'd love to check your blog out as well, so please leave your link here if you can. Also, visit me on Twitter! Happy Friday, everyone!

how Things are looking around here..

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

I've been asked by a couple of book blogger friends on Twitter the same question lately; "Where have you been?!" Yes, I know, I've been MIA for the last couple of days.. if not weeks, actually, as evident with the lack of posts and/or the lack of enthusiasm for them. I haven't even been able to read either. For some odd reason, I've been getting sick a lot lately; having on and off flu-like symptoms accompanied with nausea and some other not-so-fun stuff. My mom keeps telling me to get a blood test yet again, and I will do that asap.. Thankfully, I am feeling a lot better :) Now I'm just trying to get back on things!

Here's a not-so-exciting look on how things have been like around here lately. Lazy, gloomy.. this is how it is when all I have been trying to do is go to work, go home, and catch up on sleep. I only get 3-4hours of sleep, average, and I'm seriously trying to change that.

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I hope you're doing much better, and I'd love to hear what you're currently reading right now just for ideas and inspiration, because on Friday, I am going to have to take a trip to the library and borrow a lot of books. I am in great need of some reading time.

Book Recommendation of the Week

Thursday, September 9, 2010

This is a weekly feature here on the blog where I will basically recommend ONE specific book that I have read, and loved. It could be something I recently just read, or a one from five years ago. Doesn't matter when; if I feel as if a lot of people might like it as much as I do, then I'll recommend it! This week.. I recommend.


The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield
Genre: General/Literary Fiction
When I Read It: 2008
Synopsis: The Thirteenth Tale is a story about two women. One is a famous author who’s ill and whose life is soon coming to an end. Another is a young bookworm and bibliophile of a girl who lives a normal, simple life in her father’s book shop. The famous author is notorious for giving false statements, made up stories, and lies to people who have interviewed her. But for some mysterious reason, she decides to write to the girl telling her that after many years of lies, she is now ready to tell the truth; the real story of her life, for the first time.

Why I think you will Like it: This book will remind you how much you love words, books, and reading. It will remind you of its meaning in your life, and of your love and appreciation for it.

Why I fell in Love with It: This is actually one of my favorite books of all-time, so the reasons why I love this novel are quite a lot and I simply can not name all of them. Basically though, I love everything about it! The entire story, the characters, the twists and turns. The poetic writing, the overall Gothic-like ambiance, the Jane Eyre appeal, the lovely quotes. It's just so beautifully written and wonderfully told, and I simply like the fact that it's a "bookish book for bookish people."

Favorite Quote 1: "There is something about words. In expert hands, manipulated deftly, they take you prisoner. Wind themselves around your limbs like spider silk, and when you are so enthralled you cannot move, they pierce your skin, enter your blood, numb your thoughts. Inside you they work their magic."

Favorite Quote 2: "I never read without making sure I am in a secure position. I have been like this ever since the age of seven when, sitting on a high wall and reading The Water Babies, I was so seduced by the descriptions of underwater life that I unconsciously relaxed my muscles. Instead of being held buoyant by the water that so vividly surrounded me in my mind, I plummeted to the ground and knocked myself out. I can still feel the scar under my fringe now. Reading can be dangerous."

Women in the Classics Genre: What would they wear today?

Steph @ My Girl Friday gave me this really cute idea of putting together, a "fashion collage/board," based on the characters in the books that I have read. It's basically like putting together different clothes, accessories, etc, to create an entire wardrobe inspiration. I decided to do this little activity because 1) it's fun, and 2) I love the idea of dressing up according to personality. Clothes do make a statement, and I like seeing that through the clothes and accessories that people wear. Polyvore is a website that lets you do just that.

And because this is a book blog, I decided to use some of the female characters in some of my favorite novels in the Classics genre. These are just my interpretations and how I think they would dress if they were here today, right now, in 2010. Some are day wear, and some are obviously more for a night time look.

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Mary Lennox - The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
I imagine her to be around her early 20s. Feminine, stylish, yet comfortable and practical. This one is heavily inspired, of course, by flowers and gardens.
Mary Lennox - The Secret Garden
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Alice
- Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
Describe style: Whimsical.
Alice in Wonderland inspired
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Scarlett O' Hara
- Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
Describe style: Elegant, sophisticated, classy
Scarlett O' Hara - modern day

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Sara Crewe - A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett
Like Mary Lennox, I imagine her to be 15-25. Feminine, girly, and all things pink and princess-y!

Sara Crewe
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Daisy Buchanan
(left) and Christine Daae (right) - The Great Gasby by F. Scott Fitzgerald and The Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux
Describe Daisy B: Very sophisticated, high-end, classy, elegant. Likes the finer things in life.
Describe Christine D: Feminine, soft, yet fiery.
Modern day - Daisy Buchanan&Christine Daae

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Wendy Darling (left) and Dorothy (right) - Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie and The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum
Modern Day Wendy Darling and Dorothy


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Jane Eyre - Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
Jane Eyre Inspired

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Elizabeth Bennett
- Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Elizabeth Bennett - modern day

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Yeah, as you can see, I live in a dream world where ladies wear dresses a lot still, haha. I don't, because I'm usually stuck in simpler things, but it's nice to dream! :) Go check out Steph's works, and if you have any ideas for future characters to do this on, please feel free to suggest some because I'd love to do this over again as it is so much fun!!