Fiction Read over the Sept Holidays

'The Laws of Magic' by Michael Pryor

Although it took some time to get used to the views and values of 'The Laws of Magic' and the sometimes stifling world of these upper crust, Edwardian Brits. Still, with a great opening line like: 'Aubrey Fitzwilliam hated being dead.' - and the scientific treatment of magic which is an unusual approach, I quickly became entranced. If you like reading novels written in the time of Sherlock Holmes but enjoy the twist of the supernatural, this series is the one for you.

****

'The Further Adventure of Sherlock Holmes: The Seventh Bullet' by Daniel D. Victor and 'Seance for a Vampire' by Fred Saberhagen.

I found both these books extremely good reading and surprisingly complementary to the original Sherlock Holmes books by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Written as the orignal tales were written, through the eyes of Watson, arch villains and love interests return but in a style and dealing with concerns that have a more modern flavour. Holmes' ability to rationalise the most cryptic clues and formulate a thesis are just as impressive while the decision to relate Holmes to Dracula in the 'Seance for a Vampire' novel comes off believable and possibly may even account for some of his extraordinary, almost supernatural abilities, at times. A great series, well worth reading.


****1/2


The Seventh Bullet' by Daniel D. Victor

Set in the U.S. and dealing with the murder of David Graham Philips supposedly with a six shooter but involving a mysterious seventh bullet, the plot has all the conspiracy theories, political machinations and washing of dirty linens in public as the notorious J.F.K. assassination with it's 'magic bullet'. The combination makes for a heady, page flipping read with numerous red herrings to keep you wondering. Highly recommended.

****1/2

'Clockwork Angel' by Cassandra Clare

This prequel to 'the Mortal Instruments' series actually eclipses the first three books: 'City of Bones/Ashes/Glass which in themselves are a brilliant read. Theresa Gray travels to London following the death of her aunt and an invitation from her brother to join him. She is met by two mysterious and troubling women who claim to be taking her to her brother but who are kidnapping her for their own ends. She is eventually dramatically rescued by shadowhunters Will Herondale and Henry Branwell and taken to the safety of 'the Institute'. Tess is not an ordinary girl and the kidnap which was to eventuate in a marriage with the 'Magistrar' instead with Tess' rescue plunges the shadowhunters into a war against Downworlders and clockwork creatures. The novel is filled with exciting scenes such as where Tess and Will enter the vampire community disguised, when Jem and Will are lured away and confront the Dark sisters and their attempted ressurection and the scene where Tess commits suicide. The relationships between the characters are also complex with many as yet unrevealed secrets motivating their reactions. I couldn't put it down and can't recommend it highly enough.

*****

'A Fisherman of the Inland Sea' by Ursula K. Le Guin


I bought this book online expecting it to include at least a couple of Earthsea stories, however despite there being none at all, I still found the collection to be an excellent read. The stories explore the lives of people who inhabit imaginary worlds and speculative futures but the issues they confront - sexism, abuse, racism, guilt, sexuality, freedom etc... are just as applicable to contemporary readers. In fact, something about the fact that the tragedies and misunderstandings and enlightenments that Le Guin's characters experience at a distance because they are not of our time, allows us to judge and understand more clearly because of that distance. Her work is always a joy to read while her insights and wisdom are always profound without being didactic.

****
'The Butterfly Tattoo' by Philip Pullman

I decided to read this book after reading the 'Northern Lights' trilogy being curious as to how Pullman might tackle a realistic (as opposed to fantasy) novel. I was pleasantly surprised finding the relationships between the characters complex and interesting and towards the end, poignantly tragic. Jenny was particularly intriguing. At first it is easy to both feel attracted to but perhaps a little superior to her easy going rootlessness and lack of ambition but towards the end of the novel when we begin to be given insights into the abuse she suffered as a child, sympathy and understanding create true tolerance.

****

Teen Fiction

Spells by Aprilynne Pike ****

The sequel to 'Wings' (Spells) is better written than Aprilynne Pike's first novel. Visiting Avalon was far more interesting than exploring Laurel's attraction to two young men, one from the world of Faery and one from our world (a fairly standard plot development these days). Avalon is imaginatively described and Laurel's imposed forgetfulness allows for a number of appealing disclosures and rebelliousness regarding the prejudices and practices in that world. Tamani's character is also developed converting him into a great deal more believable admirer of Laurel.

Ice by Sarah Beth Durst ****1/2

This book has a fairytale feel to it, in fact, a distinct 'Beauty and the Beast' feel. The episodes which take place on the ice are magical and make you yearn to take up arctic exploration or something similar (and I hate the cold!). Cassandra is appealingly independent and intrepid, a young lady for the twenty first century but what I like is the mythical weaving of animal keepers or guardians and the concept of new-born cubs needing to be caught in time so that a soul can be transferred or else a still birth occurs. A unique explanation for the falling numbers of polar bears (never mind the shrinking ice theory) the plot reminds me of North American Indian shamanism.

Beautiful Malice by Rebecca James *****

A surprisingly well written first novel, a truly compelling read, possibly something all older teen girls and even their mothers should read. Alice with her deceptive, mesmerising spontaneity, her double-edged friendliness and evil, amoral beauty is a character we appear to be seeing more of in real life these days. If you'd like a glimpse into what it might be actually like to have one of the glitterazzi female icons the media seems to be promoting these days as appropriate role models for teens, then read this book and have your eyes opened (Be warned, there is a disturbing abduction and rape scene).

White Cat by Holly Black ***1/2

This book cleverly draws on the true life story where the mafia rose to power in America during prohibition. Instead of prohibited liquor being the means for men like Capone to succeed, however, in Holly Black’s world, it is magic or the power of cursing that fuels the criminal element. Cassel, the only magically untalented member of his family becomes enmeshed in a series of complicated adventures which begin with dreams of a white cat. Of course, the white cat is not just any cat and Cassel turns out to be a little more gifted than he suspected but apart from these expected plot twists it really is a very enjoyable read with likable characters, particularly Cassel who is very easy to empathise with.

New fiction titles I've read recently

The Witching Hour by Elizabeth Laird

Don't be put off by the title, this is not a fantasy story trying to cash in on the current vampire, were wolf, angel and fairy obsession. It is more of a historical fiction novel with the same feel as 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak in terms of its empathy with young people caught up in impossible, life threatening situations which demand personal self-sacrifice. The story revolves around Maggie Blair who, with her granny is accused of being a witch, essentially because the accusers desire their land and hope to expunge an enormous sum owed to Maggie - her father's wages - who was a drover and remained unpaid on his death. The story is filled with memorable, empathic characters who have with sketched with considerable psychological insight. This era - the witch burning times - is colourfully brought to life as is the hypocrisy of the church and the general bewilderment of the population. A fantastic read.

*****

Blood Promise (Vampire Academy) by Richelle Mead

I found the first half of this book quite dull. I'm afraid I don't find Rose very convincing, particularly in the fighting scenes which are glossed over. Her smart alec Americanisms (kind of like a female Bruce Willis - yuk!) also don't do it for me; however, Dimitri as a strigoi is a far more interesting and original character. I also found the mind contact with Lissa too convenient - that is... we've come to a flat spot in the story... I know, I'll just catch up on what Lissa's doing, that'll keep them entertained. Despite all that, the book has its moments - the scenes where Rose is high on vampire bites and low on 'witticism' are actually very well written and where I suspect the author's politically incorrect interest lies.

***
The Complete Horowitz Horror

This is a fun collection of horror short stories, particularly since Horowitz seems to be paying tribute to 'classic' horror formulas and subjects, reworking them into a modern context. The content is not especially scarey but the stories are well written and the characters are engaging.

****

Children's Book of the Year 2010 nominations

To celebrate Book Week, the ISC has purchased several copies of the following twelve Children's Book of the Year finalists.









If you'd like the chance to win a book, read one (or more if you like) of these twelve books and then do one of the following:











1. Choose a favourite quote from one of these twelve books and explain why it is your favourite.

2. Choose a favourite character from one of these twelve books and explain why it is your favourite.


3. Choose a favourite incident from one of these twelve books and explain why it is your favourite.

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Write your comments in the comment box at the bottom of this blog. To be in the running, you must include the following information:

1. Your name and pastoral group.

2. The book's title on which you are commenting.

3. Your comment, including a page number if there's a quote involved - make certain you explain WHY the character/quote/incident is your favourite.

You might also want to take part in our bridges competition. We have pinned up 16 photos of bridges from around the world in the ISC. Try and guess all 16 names of the bridges and the places where they have been built and you'll go into the running for fabulous prizes.

Come to the ISC for more details.

Cath Crowley coming to the ISC

Cath Crowley will be our most recent Fellow in Residence on the 16th and 17th of August. She will be running writing classes for Year 7 - 9.

Cath Crowley is the author of books such as Chasing Charlie Duskin, the Gracie Faltrain series and Graffiti Moon.

Her official website is well maintained and includes great information including reviews if you are curious or a fan.

Read an interview.

View and listen to Cath Crowley reading from A Little Wanting Song.

NOTE: As this is a YouTube clip you will need to see this at home :)

Get a Voki now!

As you can see, I've been experimenting with avatars. If you'd like to try creating your own, go to voki.com

Adult Fiction Books Read Recently

Lucia in the Age of Napoleon by Andrea di Robilant.

Andrea di Robilant is well known as an historian. His previous novelistic venture was 'A Venetian Affair - a true story of impossible love in the eighteenth century'.

This book is also based on a true story that of Lucia Mocenigo, a direct descendant of the author. The empathic relationship between the subject and author added to the inclusion of numerous passages from Lucia's correspondence and personal diaries make reading this book an intimate and inriguing experience. On the other hand, the minute attention to political history can become a little tiresome if you are not an avid fan of the era.

**** 1/2

For a more detailed review, click on the following link: Review

Elizabeth's Women by Tracy Borman.

I'm addicted to this particular historic era, so it's not surprising that I'd opt for an Elizabethan-based novel; however, if you are not an avid historical fiction fan, Borman's book is still written in such an engaging manner that you won't mind.

The book is incredibly informative providing good cross-referencing considering that most of the biographical and fictional accounts I have read to date have been about Queen Elizabeth, herself or one of the influencial men who lived at that time.

It was also interesting to gain insight into a woman's perspective of those turbulant times. If you have seen any of the rather many film versions of Elizabeth's life and reign you will be well aware that the plot must be exciting but what you may not expect is the intimate descriptions of Elizabeth's court and the surprising power weilded by the women close to her.

*****

For a more detail review, click on the following link: Review

Teen fantasy books I have read recently

Storm Glass by Maria V. Snyder I enjoyed this book, particularly the glass making scenes which were accurately and enthusiastically detailed (makes you want to take up glass blowing!). It reminded me of Tamora Pierce's books Cold Fire and Shatterglass in The Circle Opens series.

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What was less exciting was the way the author skipped description and segued to the future (and sometimes the past) breaking the mood and causing momentary confusion. Still, the story of a young woman skilled in making glass endowed with magic who must aid the Storm Dancers who have failed to draw the power of this season's killing storms, placing all in danger is intriguing enough to persevere.

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***1/2

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The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner by Stephenie Meyer, is an Eclipse novella.

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It tells the story of Victoria's (Bella's vampire nemesis) creation of a coven to destroy Edward's mate (Bella) in retaliation for the death of her own mate.

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The tale is told through the eyes of Bree and gives an unsentimental and sometimes brutal insight into newly 'made' vampires. As the title suggests, Bree is eventually executed. Although she surrenders during the battle against the Cullen coven, the Volturi condemn her to death. The most interesting thing about this novella is the insight the reader gains into Jasper, the newest member of the Cullen coven.

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It is also interesting that Stephenie Meyer seems to be taking the same pathway that J. K. Rowling took once her famous series had finished.

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***1/2

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Necropolis by Anthony Horowitz is the fourth book in The Power of Five series.

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The main action takes place in Hong Kong and are there moments when the old Horowitz magic writing speeds you through page after page but too oftne you may find your attention wandering as the author relies on some serious cliches and sterotypes.

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Still, if you have read the other three books, you'll definitely want to keep abreast of what happens (and what will happen, presumably in a final fifth book) when Scarlet - the fifth member of this powerful group is identified, rescued, then lost, then rescued again and finally reveals her awesome gift.

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****

Adult Fiction books read during the Term 2 break

'The Executor' by Jesse Kellerman - I found this a fascinating read. Set in Harvard, the story features a selfish young PHD Philosophy student who stumbles onto an advantageous job opportunity and eventual inheritance. The plot develops as the (rather pompous and opiniated) young man learns avariciousness and subterfuge and a multitude of behaviours that are (supposedly) foreign to his 'principles' and arguably to his nature. An intriguing read for those who are interested in human behaviour. ****1/2

'The Bricklayer' by Noah Boyd - This novel (made available by Rita Eremin) was a true page turner. The main character Steve Vail is a (forcibly) retired FBI agent who refuses to suffer fools gladly. He is tracked down by the current FBI deputy assistent director who surmises Vail's 'maverick' approach is exactly what is needed to deal with the spate of ingenious murders designed to embarrass and implicate the FBI. The 'traps' set to kill any agent foolhardy enough to attempt to unmask the murderers makes for thrilling reading with Vail's narrow escapes and psychological profiling of the murderers. ****1/2

'61 Hours' by Lee Child - Set in snowstorm where a bus carrying elderly tourists crashes unexpectedly and with potentially life-threatening consequences, Jack Reacher, who had earlier joined the tour in a random attempt to 'keep moving', manages to rescue the situation. Owning nothing and dependent completely on a credit card, he creates suspicion in the local police who come to realise that Reacher has a mysterious and possibly sinister past. He proves to be the town's saviour, however, as the community becomes threatened by outside forces determined to destroy anyone and anything which stands in their way. ****

Fiction books read in the holidays

'The Prince of Mist' by Carlos Ruiz Zafon - This was an excellent read in a timeless, fairytale style rather like Cornelia Funke's 'Inkheart', the Lemony Snicket series 'A Series of Unfortunate Events' or 'The Lamplighter' series by David Cornish. ****

'Song of the Lioness' quartet by Tamora Pierce - Another brilliant read although I enjoyed 'The Immortals' quartet a fraction more but this is largely a matter of personal taste. I have now read pretty much everything Tamora Pierce has written and remain very impressed with her work. ****1/2

'Sasha' by Joel Shepherd - I found it very difficult to get involved with either the plot or the characters in this book. I can't really put my finger on what failed to thrill but I really could not be bothered completing it which is a rareoccurrence for me. *1/2

'The Devouring' by Simon Holt - This book became a tad predictable towards the end but aside from this was a very enjoyable read. Some eeirie moments of horror that I wish could have been sustained for longer. ***1/2

'Wings' by Apilynne Pike - If you can set aside the grotesqueness of visualising a girl who has grown an enormous flower (an image that I personally find rather silly) you will enjoy this book with its sensual and romantic overtones. ***1/2

'Shiver' by Maggie Stiefvater - I actually found the writing and plotline a great deal more rivetting than 'Twilight'. Although Stephenie meyer praises Aprilynne Pike for her 'remarkable debut' on the cover of 'Wings', Maggie Stiefvater better deserves the compliment. The insights into Wolf behaviour reminded me of Alison Croggon's second book 'The Riddle' in the Pelinor series. An excellent read. ****1/2

New 'Skinny' Books and Graphic Novels

We've just finished processing some new 'skinny' books and graphic novels to meet the growing demand from students.

Students will find these books on display close to the circulation desk and where the 'skinny' books are usually found.

Years 7 and 8 will also be pleased to hear that aside from the new 'Garfield' books, the other books purchased: 'Tin Tin' and 'Aussie Bites' are all Premier's Reading Challenge books.

Stay tuned for an update on the Premier's Reading Challenge results to date - coming soon!

Book in a Bag presentations - more images

More bags are now on display in the ISC.

Come and see Year 8s artistic interpretations of their 'own choice' novels and be inspired to read the books that are featured in their creations.

Book in a Bag presentations

Year 8 have now completed and presented their Book in a Bag task. As you can see, the results have easily rivalled, possibly even excelled previous years.

This popular wide reading activity continues to be a favourite amongst English students who thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to showcase a book of their own choice.

Books were chosen came from all genres with growing up and adventure/action being particularly featured.

Keep an eye out for future posts where I will be displaying a choice of hot bags. Bags will also be displayed in the ISC at the front desk and in the display cabinet next to the workroom.

Adult Fiction reviews

A book I did not particularly expect to enjoy is 'The Naming of the Dead' by Ian Rankin. Chosen at the last minute as I was heading off to attend my father's 80th birthday, (a nine hour trip - two buses, a train and plane - away) I needed something to screen out obnoxious fellow travellers (that's a whole other story) and my fear of flying. Ian Rankin's book did exactly that.


Set in Scotland during the 2005 G8 summit, Detective Inspector John Rebus is tracking a serial killer. His assistant Siobhan Clarke whose parents are amongst the protestors, finds herself attempting to trace her mother's assailant as a priority, instead. Both officers become entangled with a local, powerful criminal whose offers of help threaten to corrupt Clarke.


With the backdrop of the G8 fracas and the tragedy of the London bombings, the political manoeuvring and criminal involvement, I was easily kept intrigued - though I must admit I did have an additional motivation for my fascination. You see, I was both in London and Glasgow at the time of the book's events.

I found the book fascinating and informative: ****

A book I am currently reading is 'The Snowman' by Joe Nesbo, a Scandinavian author. The publishers claim that 'The Snowman' rivals Stieg Larsson's record breaking trilogy.

Having read and thoroughly enjoyed the Larsson trilogy and being presently engrossed in Joe Nesbo's book, I can't yet make a fair judgement but for those interested, here's a site you might like to access:

www.scandinavianbooks.com/crime-book/norwegian/jo-nesbo2.html

Library Quips

'Beauty is only skin deep but ugly cuts to the bone.'

- Anthony, a wry comment made following a colleague's observation.



'Why do you have to be visually impaired to read?'

- Annette in response to librarians always being portrayed as spectacled.

New fantasy literature

A new fantasy anthology will be coming out in June, 2010. Titled 'Legends of Australian fantasy', we will definitely be getting a copy for the ISC :)

The anthology includes legendary authors such as Garth Nix, Isobelle Carmody, Kim Wilkins and Juliet Marillier.

Garth Nix's is another 'Old Kingdom' tale while Isobelle Carmody will include a short story based on the 'Obernewtyn' series.

Can't wait till it comes out! Stay tuned for a review when it does!