The Mystery of Mercy Close – Marian Keyes

Tuesday, February 19th, 2013 by Marci

marian keyes I employ this thing called The Shovel List.’
‘A shovel . . . ?’
‘No. A Shovel List. It’s more of a conceptual thing. It’s a list of all the people and things I hate so much that I want to hit them in the face with a shovel.’

Meet Helen – youngest of the Walsh sisters and a law unto herself. She’s easily bored, has an inability to filter her thoughts and was fired from every job she ever had before she found her true calling as a private investigator. But times are tough for PIs and Helen’s had no choice but to take on the search for AWOL boyband has-been Wayne Diffney – The Wacky One.

It’s not all bad this game of Where’s Wayne. It may have brought her charming crook of an ex Jay Parker back into her life, but it’s giving her an excuse to avoid the usual Walsh family dramas and the intense looks from her gorgeous boyfriend Artie that make her heart beat wildly with lust and panic in equal measure. But most of all it’s an excellent distraction from the huge swarm of black vultures gathering over her head. If she hides out in her target’s empty house on Mercy Close for long enough maybe they’ll go away . . .

But as Helen begins to unravel the mysteries secreted on Mercy Close she discovers a kindred spirit in a man unwilling to be found. Could someone be telling her to look a little closer to home . . . ? – Publishers Website

I’m divided on this particular book, for a few reasons. The earlier books(s) I have read by Marian have been really fun reads. This one I wasn’t so keen on. I didn’t enjoy Helen’s demeanor, it was too hyper, too much double guessing herself. In other terms too fidigety. She second guesses everything or just about everything she does as a private investigator – what she has done for years. The background on the book is well thought out, it’s just her main character or that could be the reason she is the way she is because of the plot lines in the book, but this wasn’t a great book for me. I have thought about it probably more than I needed to and waited as long as I could without giving a scathing review about something that didn’t mesh with what I remember from her other novels, I just didn’t like this one as much as the earlier books I have read by Marian.

I do have to say though, she has a rocking twitter account! I noticed that she has locked herself out more than once because of her tweeting….too much, too fast LOL

Marian’s Website – Facebook – Twitter – Goodreads

Comic-Con Episode IV: A Fan’s Hope – DK Publishing

Saturday, July 14th, 2012 by Marci

Oscar-nominated filmmaker Morgan Spurlock teams up with Joss Whedon and comic book legend Stan Lee to provide an insider look at the unique experience that is the San Diego Comic-Con. An annual four-day event that originally showcased comic books and science fiction, the convention has expanded over the years to include film, horror, anime, manga, animation and video games. The largest event of its kind in the world, Comic-Con is the quintessential center of pop culture today. From what Comic-Con is, what goes on, and how it became what it is today, this illustrated companion to the film offers an unprecedented look at this annual event.

Includes interviews with Frank Miller, Matt Groening,Kenneth Branagh, Ellen Page and Seth Rogan

Morgan Spurlock was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary for Super Size Me. He followed up with the well received Where in the World is Osama Bin Laden(2008), and produced three seasons of his acclaimed television series 30 Days. Spurlock also conceived, wrote, and directed The Simpsons’ 20th Anniversary Special in 3-D. His feature-length adaptation of the New York Times Bestseller Freakonomics was released in Fall 2010. He is also the author of Don’t Eat This Book!, based on his documentary Super Size Me.- Publishers Website

I have never been to one of these festivals, but by the looks of it from inside these pages, it would have to be one of those most fantastical places, albeit, for a week or two.

The fans, the costumes, the panels, and of course the sneak peeks into movies or anything else you wanted to know about is all there. It would be one of those one moments in time, where you would experience everything at once. What a whirlwind!

I really loved the enthusiasm that the fans have for their most loved comic, movies, graphic novels and so much more. What would you want to do there ? I think I would want to experience a little of everything. That is if I had time to do so! Below, check out some of the costumes, fans, celebrities, and more inside the book.

Comic-Con Site – Comic-Con Twitter – Facebook – YouTube

Comic-Con IV

#19 & #20 – Double Post – DK Star Wars – The Secret Life of Drones and Star Wars – Year By Year – A Visual Chronicle – DK Books

Friday, May 4th, 2012 by Marci

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be C-3PO or what R2-D2′s function is?

Well now you can find out in Star Wars: The Secret Life of Droids from DK’s newest Star Wars series. Learn about the many types of droids from large and fearsome droidekas, to the smart and helpful astromech droids.

The Secret Life of Droids looks at the classic Star Wars galaxy from a fresh, new perspective, and features a timeline giving the reader a quick-reference overview of the events and information featured. Interactive and dynamic pages presenting events thematically rather than chronologically will allow young readers to uncover droid technology and discover each of its individual functions! – Publishers Website

AND…

From the first release of Star Wars: A New Hope in 1977 to the 2009 second season of The Clone Wars, Star Wars Year By Year: A Visual Chronicle is an unparalleled chronological journey through the making of the most epic science fiction series ever! Featuring incredible illustrations and stills, the book chronologically details the history and development of the Star Wars movies; the events, press, and logistics surrounding the making of each movie; and exclusive interviews with people who worked behind the scenes. The year-by-year format includes images from the movies, TV series, comic books, video games, and novels as well as movie posters, memorabilia, book covers, and more. – Publishers Website

I cannot say enough about DK’s Books !! I love each and every one of them !!! Since it is May 4th, and it is May the 4th Be With You, this is an extra special day for Star Wars and DK !! I have many of their books, but the specific topics they publish about are I have to say the absolute best of any of the books out there !! They add imagination, full colour photography, interesting ways of actually giving you the information so you are engaged and informed at that really boring office party or wherever you are, just to make that awkward situation just a little better. And who doesn’t know about star wars right?!?

Everything you wanted to know about droids but where afraid to ask? The secret life of droids is the book for you. Has your child who is obviously old enough to have watched one or all the movies wondered this question, have no fear; all their questions and then some are incorporated into this small book for any age, young or old.

In the Year by Year compilation, if you are one of those “fans” that go to the conventions, have been a fan of the movies and or the Star Wars movement since the start, and don’t have this book, this is the time to get it!

Inside the cover is an envelope that has 2 high quality pictures that are special to the book. It does have a thick cover to enclose the book so that you can display it with pride along all of your other Star Wars books, figurines, movie posters. Yes, I know you do, just nod your head and agree, I know you want to!

The Year by Year book is something! It is the ultimate pop culture collection, from George Lucas’ initial career of a movie maker, to what inspired him to everything in between; this is the greatest Star Wars Lovers Paradise !!

And from today until May 6th, if you live in Canada and buy any of the DK Star Wars Books at any of the Chapters/Indigo/Coles family of stores, DK Canada will make a donation to the Indigo Love of Reading Foundation. For more information, click on this link and get to buying some of the books you don’t have already in your collection!! Or just joining in on the celebrations that are going on today throughout Canada !!!

Here is a sneak peek inside The Secret Life of Drones and Star Wars Year by Year – A Visual Chronicle to see what I am talking about !

StarWars 2012

#14 – How To Cook – Delicious Dishes Perfect For Teen Cooks – DK Publishing

Friday, March 16th, 2012 by Marci

A beautifully designed and practical introduction to creative cooking!

How to Cook gives teens the know-how and confidence to cook their own meals, whether for themselves or to impress friends and family. The 100 easy-to-follow recipes offer plenty of ideas to get them started. From Ginger-chicken stir-fry to scrumptious mini cheesecakes, there’s a great balance of healthy meals and treats from different countries around the world. Fascinating information on ingredients, origins, seasonality, healthy eating, and insights into food culture are spread throughout the text—so young adults are kept informed about what they’re eating, but in a light and fun way.

With this great selection of adaptable recipes, food facts, and fail-safe techniques, How to Cook will get teens creative in the kitchen, and enthusiastic about food for life. – Publishers Website

What a great book for beginning cooks! I love the setup inside of the recipes, the graphics, and some pretty swanky recipes if I do say so myself! Gazpacho, Crepes, Samosas, Cannelloni, Puff Pastry even !! I wish I had this book when I was a teenager !! But all fun aside, this is a really great book to have your teens start out cooking and baking their way to becoming a pretty good cook by the time they are adults!

Everything is included, from Food Basics, Putting the Fun in to Food - Tricks and Tips, Baking Techniques, Herbs and Spices – including 100 recipes to get them started, with really down to earth, understandable recipes, with simple instructions on how to add, sift, chop, dice and slice your way to impress even your parents! Or even that new girl you have had a crush on forever that finally acknowledged you…hint, hint…

Now, my darling son Nick went through the book when we first received it and I thought he would want to make something hearty, since he loves anything to do with food. When he was younger, we used to bake together and pretend we were French Chefs, and have a really corny French accent as we baked. Well those days are g one for will forever be a memory that I will love and use as ammunition in the future. No, I wouldn’t do that, but It makes me smile ear to ear at those times we had together. He chose to make Ginger Cookies. You can see the results below in the pictures we took last night. So, if you are looking top get your kids even started on learning to cook for themselves, this is the book for you and your teenager to make new memories together !

GRAND FlAGallery WordPress plugin

Make sure that you click on the picture below to browse other books and to enter a contest where you can win $150.00 worth of Better Living Books !! **contest ends APRIL 16th 2012**

#45 – Star Wars – The ULTIMATE Visual Guide Special Edition 30th Anniversary – Ryder Windham, Daniel Wallace

Wednesday, May 4th, 2011 by Marci

The definitive companion to the entire Star Wars phenomenon, in a special updated edition: Star Wars: The Ultimate Visual Guide uncovers the full story of the amazing Star Wars saga, with more than 1,000 images from the movies, cartoons, comics, and novels, along with merchandise, behind-the-scenes photography, and much more!

This Special Edition features brand-new overviews of the latest comic books, new information on merchandise, as well as a special feature on fan celebrations.

The History of the Star Wars galaxy, Key Characters, technology, droids, aliens, and locations. Behind the scenes information on the making of the movies. Collectibles and merchandise, Full colour illustrations from the Star Wars Expanded Universe, Comics, Novels, and Video Games. Publishers Website and Back of Hardcover

Seriously, who hasn’t already seen all of the movies at least once? Either you were a die-hard fan when the first one came out way back in 1976. Yes, it has been that long. But in the world of Star Wars, it is just a moment away in one of the extravagant space ships on some far, far away galaxy that we have all come to know and love.

Who was your favorite character? Luke Skywalker? Darth Vader? Yoda ? Princess Leia? Chewbacca? Obi Wan Kenobi? Well they are all here and all of the many new characters that have evolved along the years with new and exciting worlds as well.

This book was originally published in 2005, but it was again updated and republished with new content for the 30th Anniversary in 2007. Since the series came out there have been novelizations, new series, movies, readers, and comics that keep the universe alive even today.

As my son and I looked through the book, we loved the full colour illustrations and the not so new facts that we never knew about. A few years ago, we entered a contest from DK in the United States for a Star Wars contest, and he happened to win! I think the blog was asking what his favorite character was, as DK was releasing one of their now best-selling books Lego Star Wars Visual Dictionary.

Another reason he was so into Star Wars, was that he was about to compete in a Lego League competition where the kids built their own robots and competed on a course doing different things with their somewhat homemade robots. When they did compete, they WON the spirit award for their participation at the event!

So, as May the 4th Be With You Day begins or ends where ever you may be in our own universe, come and take a look inside this book and the many others that DK Worldwide have published in honor of STAR WARS and May the Force Be With You !!

Above this post is an extra special post about May the 4th Be with You and what DK Canada is doing this year in honor of this humble occasion around the world, so it is so exciting that I can hardly contain myself it WILL be so fun, that is if you choose to participate!! For details go click here

Since this book was republished back in 2007 and it was the 30th anniversary, since it is 2011 that means an even more special anniversary – the 35th one !! Long live the FORCE !

Star Wars Site – DK Canada – DK USA

This is the trailer for Star Wars trailer from 1997 Special Edition ENJOY !!

#33 – Inkblot – Drip, Splat, and Squish Your Way To Creativity – Margaret Peot

Thursday, March 24th, 2011 by Marci

Leonardo da Vinci saw landscapes and battles in the swirls of a marble wall. The novelist Victor Hugo splashed coffee and wine on paper and found castles and monsters in the splatters.

Now Margaret Peot shows how anyone can use inkblots as keys to creativity.

For Decades, the author has been using inkblots she makes to spark her own creativity. Now she shares her insights and techniques in this beautiful treatment of the subject. From basic tips on paper and ink to advanced approaches for transforming splatters and ink blobs into works of art, she sets readers on a path to creating their own inkblots.

Her enthusiastic text and step-by-step approach will encourage even the most reluctant artist, and her stunning artworks will inspire readers to create inkblots that are uniquely their own. – Inside Flap Hardcover Edition

My son and I LOVE this book. You can create just about anything your heart desires, sometimes without even noticing you are even creating something so rich and alive. Most of you have maybe seen these before as being used in Psychiatrists or Psychologists offices as a tool. Now, you can make them yourself and have an original to me art on your walls. Margaret gives you the tools and tips to make your very own. What can I say, My son and I have already used up a whole ream of paper making our own designs. You should see the ink on our fingers !

This book is absolutely perfect for one of those rainy day afternoons when the kids come to you saying I’m Bored ! or as a camping activity. Even as an art activity to do at school. It does not matter if you are already an artist, or are one of those who don’t think that you are not so great at art, you will be astounded at the images you can see through the images.

Stay tuned, Margaret has done a Q and A with me. I also have ONE copy to giveaway to a lucky reader! TOMORROW!!

Here are a few of the inkblots Nick and I have done the last few days, can you not imagine what these can become !?! I’m excited.

#26 – You and Your Future Your Signs, Your In-Depth Personality Patterns, Your 40 Year Horoscope – Georgia Nichols

Wednesday, March 2nd, 2011 by Marci

You and Your Future is the first book by Canada’s foremost astrologer, Georgia Nicols, whose newspaper columns are read daily by millions. Now you can read 40 years of forecasts (1985-2025), allowing you to predict your future by testing Georgia’s accuracy in reading your past.

Never before has a single astrology book spanned four decades of change — it’s the only astrology book you’ll ever need!

Georgia’s sage advice for being happy in this — mixed-up, muddled-up, shook-up world is tailored to each sign. Here is a book you will treasure as it helps you reach your highest self. And you’ll be pulling it out of the bookcase and referring to it for the next quarter century.

Discover:

What Makes You Tick
What Your Style Is in Love and Romance
When Partnerships Are in Jeopardy
When You Should Buy or Sell Real Estate
When a Major Move Is Coming
When to Ask for a Raise or Promote Your Career
Who You Really Are at Home and at Work
How to Be a Happier Person

Eerily accurate and written in Georgia’s wickedly witty trademark style, You and Your Future is an entertaining and insightful astrology guide that works! – Publishers Website

I did enjoy this humorous book. Although I am divided on whether Astrology is real or not, I did find some things pretty darn accurate. It is different for every sign, so this is a must read for those who do understand and believe in this type of research. The intimate detailing as well as the humour that Georgia includes will have you chuckling you way through, reading what your sign is great and not so great at. As a matter of fact, my son even had looked up his own sign to see what would behold him in his future – he’s 12. He did enjoy learning about his sign as well.

Georgia’s Website – Follow Georgia on Twitter

Also be sure to check out her website for tour dates, daily horoscopes as well as other great tidbits!

The Best Art You’ve Never Seen – Julian Spalding

Thursday, December 16th, 2010 by Marci

Across the globe, there are hundreds of beautiful and unusual works of art that are largely unseen or fail to receive the critical acclaim they deserve.

Why, You ask?

From Peru to Papua New Guinea, this book uncovers neglected wonders in obscure corners of the world, or shut away in either private collections, museums store rooms, or just plain inaccessible because of where they are located – rock falls, shifts in trade routes, or just to avoid destruction of for use in the afterlife.

Many are hidden by changes in taste, marginalized because they don’t fit into the already established norms of art, demands of conservation. Many are still waiting to be re-discovered for the first time.

The author brings you into this part of the world throughout the amazing photography, alone with a detailed back stories about each work of art, the controversies behind the pieces that are unfamiliar to most to gain a fresh perspective.

I think this would be a great idea to plan a trip to see some of the more accessible pieces as part of a holiday or even as a holiday to see the pieces among the cities and places that take advantage of the art as they walk by on a street, or just fail to see the beauty.

DK Publishing

The Practical Astronomer – Explore The Wonders of The Night Sky – DK Publishing

Saturday, September 25th, 2010 by Marci

Have you ever laid on the grass or even on the beach late at night gazing at the sky and the stars, watching the night sky wondering what exactly is out there in space?

Or even when you see a falling star flaring across the sky?

The practical astronomer will help you demystify the night sky, help you recognize and identify features by eye or using binoculars or even a telescope, even how to take your own pictures.

I am personally mystified by the night sky, especially after being able to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) when I lived in Northern British Columbia closer than I have ever seen it before made me more awestruck and curious about space, the sky, and what happens way up there.

This book also includes -

clear star charts showing major constellations
helping you to navigate through or between constellations
look at the night sky and know what to expect month by month
detailed atlases
demystify phenomena such as eclipses, chemistry, physics, planets, comets, stars and nebulae
the possibility of life beyond
how to buy and use telescopes
how to sketch observations

DK Publishing

Look Now – The World in Facts, Stats and Graphics – DK Publishing

Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 by Marci

Literally crammed full of fully up to date information, this is even a favorite book of mine.

This is the book for you, if you have ever wanted to take a glimpse into a place you have never heard of before, or wanted to know about a place you have already been to.

The full colour photographs, pictures, stats, and illustrations will have you thinking to yourself “Wow, I never knew that before”.

Such things as -

what nations are the happiest and why
how much money is in the world
how and why populations rise and fall
even the chances of being killed by a coconut
what country will have you caught on camera an average of 300 times per day

The earth is a giant jigsaw puzzle made of what is called tectonic plates, and since the earth has been round, that they have moved farther away from one another, constantly changing.

Out of the 55 million people who die all over the world -

59% died from a non infectious illness
1% died from nutritional deficiencies
25% died from infectious diseases
6% died from accidents
3% died from war and violence
6% died from birth complications

Also, you have more of a chance of being hit by a meteorite than dying of laughter…The people who die from laughter die because of a weak heart. It is the increased blood pressure and heart rate that kills them.

Did you know that when women have equal access to education, health care, employment, and power - societies become richer, healthier and more peaceful?

Did you also know that 1 billion children are in elementary school and high school, but there are 72 million children that cannot access education because their parents are too poor to afford it?

DK Publishing

How Animals Work – Why and How Animals Do The Things They Do – DK Publishing

Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 by Marci

Have you ever watched a television show on animals and ever wondered how or why animals do what they do and how they look on the inside?

Fish breathing underwater, a brown bear hunting for fish, or even how bears can sleep for months on end? How about how an eagle can soar through the air? Follow a honey bee and what they do without being stung?

With this book, you can discover all of those questions and more such as -

Communicate
Hunt
Eat
Natural habitants and so much more

So, if you have ever wondered any of the things I have mentioned, then why now pick up a copy the next time you are in the bookstore. Sure this book is for kids 8-12, but it’s great for adults too!

DK Publishing

The History Book – A Trip Through History From The Stone Age to The Digital Age – DK Publishing

Tuesday, September 7th, 2010 by Marci

The mightiest trip through time is about to begin, Are you ready to learn about one thing after another?!?

Buckle up and get ready for a really fascinating ride through the centuries and time with this incredible book!

From the stone age to the digital age, there are so many facets you will keep coming back to time and time again.

Major events that happened in history to plain ole stuff. The way it is presented in this fun, full colour appearance makes history actually FUN and engaging. Might I add possibly EVEN FUN!!

Because, really history doesn’t have to be boring, just because it may have happened a really long time ago, right?

Historical places to historical people and things that have changed the world we live in, something for everyone – something good, something bad, but you will understand none the less.

So who is ready ?!?

DK Publishing

The Rough Guide Book of Brain Training – DK Publishing

Friday, September 3rd, 2010 by Marci

Did you realize that your brain changes over time and how we use it for ?

It is called plasticity

Brain training has been around for ages. Think about it, we start school when we are 4 years old, but learning and training our brain starts from the moment we are conceived which lasts throughout our lives. We are constantly learning new things everyday, in new ideas to new places and situations we find ourselves in.

The question remains – does brain training really work? ABSOLUTELY.

Sure it may be hard, takes time, but practice makes perfect as the old adage says right?

So let’s get started!

This little book is literally packed with over 500 puzzles. everyday for 100 days you complete “daily workouts” which changes from day-to-day.

Then every 10 days, there is a test, so you can see how far you are progressing as you move on, or if you are falling behind, then maybe go back and do some other brain games to catch up.

You can keep track of your progress as well.

Don’t give up ! Your Brain will thank you for it.

Did you know -

A Healthy mind and body just isn’t an old cliché – the evidence of physical exercise can help prevent brain deterioration, which is stronger than the evidence that mental exercise can prevent it.
Your brain uses around 20% of the total of your body’s energy, which is about 400 calories a day, or a rate of 15 watts, which is the same as a dim light bulb.
Your brain has about 100,000,000,000 brain cells called neurons. If each neuron was a grain of sand, it would fill an average 2 story house!

DK Publishing

Do Not Open – An Encyclopedia of The World’s Best Kept Secrets – DK Publishing

Wednesday, September 1st, 2010 by Marci

Does the cover dare you not to open this book?

But, really, you know you want to, don’t you, yes, I am talking to you, I know you do, so why not open and take a quick peek? No one will know…

All of the secret stuff you have ever wanted to know such as -

weird history
strange science
mysterious places
strange happenings
how to even join a secret society
can it really rain frogs ?

Just one page now…

Right…

Yep, I knew it as soon as I got your attention, you would be hooked!

Shhh, don’t tell anyone else now, ok?!? That’s what my son said, it was sitting on the coffee table literally begging him not to open the book. He was dying to know what was inside of it, now aren’t you as well??

My job here is done… GOTCHA !!

DK Publishing

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Halo Encyclopedia – The Definitive Visual Guide – DK Books

Tuesday, June 1st, 2010 by Marci

Are you a die-hard HALO fan? Do you go to the game store on Halo day to be the first in line to get the latest game?!?

If you are one of these people, you will definitely want to have this book for your collection.

This book has everything you either knew or wanted to know about HALO up to the latest HALO release ODST, and the whole universe.

Full colour photographs
Intricate step by step detailing of characters – why the wars were started, vehicles, weapons, etc.

Nick loves the weapons and the descriptions and wishes he had a few of them in his collection. He loves the different groups as well as the differences of races not only described in full detail but in the games as well. The images of war scenes on every single page, the informational boxes, the timelines of each and every district. The close up of the people of these regions aren’t so bad either, as well as the protocols for each region.

DK Books

Here is a glance inside HALO Encyclopedia: The Definitive Visual Guide -

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Tomato – A Guide to The Pleasures of Choosing, Growing & Cooking – Gail Harland and Sofia Larrinua-Craxton

Friday, December 4th, 2009 by Marci

If you are contemplating starting to grow tomatoes, or just have a love of eating them then this book is definitely for you.

This smallish hardcover book has literally everything you will need to start to grow your first tomato plants to adding to your repertoire of gardening.

The detailed advice on every part from growing, varieties, diseases, pests, growing them in the ground, growing them in bags, pots or hanging baskets.

There is also a section for when you are ready to harvest, a selection of over 30 recipes to entice you to use your bountiful harvest of tomatoes.

I was really impressed with the full colour photographs and diagrams, along with the descriptions makes this in my opinion the Tomato Lovers Bible.

Who knew that there are over 5000 different varieties of all shapes and sizes that first originated in the western coastal highlands of South America that were grown by the Aztec’s and Mayans. They also grow wild in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, Northern Chile and Peru?

Here is a sampling of the full colour photographs and details from part of the book -

DK Publishing

Sofia’s Website

CBC Canada Reads 2010 is announced !

Tuesday, December 1st, 2009 by Marci

I wasn’t online or able to listen to the announcement when I was out and about earlier today,but have already placed holds on 2 more books at the library, 2 they didn’t have and I haven’t checked out one last book yet, but here are the books and the people who are defending their choices -

Defended by Perdita Felicien

Defended by Roland Pemberton

Defended by Simi Sara

Defended by Samantha Nutt

Defended by Michel Vezina

Now, there are also some really great contests in keeping with the theme – From now until March when they start to really tear down and build back up the books they are defending from the other panelists; they have book giveaways if you go HERE and check back often as they will change frequently.

Then, they also have a contest where the winner will win a Sony E Reader (how cool is that) and you can find it HERE

And, last but certainly not least if you missed the announcement like I did you can view them all on the radio, yes, I just said that you will know what I mean when you watch the announcement live on the radio from earlier today

What are YOU going to read ??

Sex, Drugs, & Gefilte Fish – Edited By Shana Liebman

Sunday, November 22nd, 2009 by Marci

9780446504621_388X586 When I received the offer to read and review this book it had me intrigued. Even the title had me wondering right away what it was all about, and I have to admit, I was laughing out loud laughing, shaking my head, and open mouth shocked at some of the stories in this collection from the Heeb Story Collection.

From scoring drugs for your uncle, to spending a New Year’s Eve with porn stars (yes, you heard me correct) it was a hilarious ride into what is to be Jewish, and the stories of living anywhere in America , and what it could have in store for you.

There are 50 stories from the downright laugh out loud laughing funny to sentimental of what it meant for these people to be “Jewish”.

Strangely unique, it had me reading story after story wondering what was next in the queue.

I loved it.

View Video

Update – Do I Need a New Bookcase, or Do I NEED a new bookcase ?

Monday, November 2nd, 2009 by Marci

It has been a bit hasn’t it since I last talked about the new bookcase I was getting from CSN Office Furniture hasn’t it?

Well, after a glitch that was thrown my way, and finally getting around to posting the before and after pics its been a busy one for sure. But I have to say that the 4 shelf bookcase I received is great. It isn’t as large as my 5 shelf bookcase, but it is doing it’s job quite well. It was super easy to put together with only needing a screwdriver and some minimal assistance to put together.

So these were the BEFORE pictures…

Before 1 Before 2

And these are the AFTER Pictures

After 1 After 2

MUCH better I think! What do you think ?

Thanks again to Jason of CSN Office Furniture for allowing me to be able to do this, he was great and the customer service he showed me was excellent.

The Secret Life of Marilyn Monroe – J. Randy Taraborrelli

Sunday, October 11th, 2009 by Marci

Marilyn Monroe I am simply speechless.

All of us know Marilyn Monroe was one of the most famous actresses in her day, who is still as iconic as she was before her death – her natural beauty, her tumultuous relationships with men, the men she married, her controversial link to powerful and influential men who include the Kennedy brothers, who died way before she should have.

In her young life, it started to go wrong very early. Her mother, who was thought of as having something wrong with her – erratic behaviour, which left Norma Jean with neighbours as an infant never knowing who her real biological mother was, or even who her father was.

Being shuffled back and forth from her mother to her foster parents to orphanages and back again certainly displaced her and displaced her sense of who she really was, with not knowing specific details which would haunt her as if a puzzle always had a few pieces missing where in fact it should have been filled.

On her way to becoming a Hollywood star in the 50’s, the people which surrounded her seemed to hang off her like they could get something from her, or just be there in case that she needed something from them. The mood swings, the drugs, the alcohol, and the seamless illusions of her being perfectly sane, but at times the exact opposite – depressed, lifeless, not being able to take care of herself. The mental illness which was like her mother and grandmothers; said to be paranoid schizophrenia also known as manic depression, then the mysterious nature of her death at the age of 36.

I think there was just something about Marilyn that had everyone wanting to get to know her – her complete transformation as soon as she hit the stage, or was in the company of people that she wanted to be around. The women who were jealous of her, and made men intimidated with her poise and intelligence. (She was actually quite intelligent). But behind the confidant exterior it was quite clear she was because of her childhood, her intense therapy sessions, who she was or where she came from. It was said that she used her not knowing who her father was or her childhood to draw from during dramatic scenes in the movies she acted in.

It seems as though she was very much living a double life, the one in public, and then the one in private.

Hachette / Grand Central

The Marilyn Monroe Collection

Listen / Download a Podcast

Listen to an excerpt

We Know What You’re Thinking – What Canadians Think and Why – Darrell Bricker and John Wright

Monday, September 14th, 2009 by Marci

we know what youre thinking Have you ever wondered what other people think? Have you ever wondered how your opinions match against say someone across the country? While living out in British Columbia, I had a job which asked questions of Americans on different topics, and it made me want to read this book just to see how or why people think the way they do and how the pollsters crunch the numbers and come up with the answers that they do.

Darrel and John have been asking Canadians questions for years as Canada’s premier pollsters from Ipsos-Reid, which just happens to be the largest market and opinion research company in Canada.

I can almost be sure that at one time or another, you had a phone call from these people, and depending on your mood (yes I have been on the end of that many times asking questions myself) when you decide to answer these questions, do you think that they actually matter? In one word yes, they do.

From policies, random questions, and some really personal questions such as what would your ideal lover look like, to going out to dinner and a movie would you rather take your dad or Jon Bon Jovi? The answers to these questions and so many more can be found in this book that actually differs from province to province.

What do they do with all of the answers that they receive, how do they put together all of the data, yes, no and maybes, into such data that a company or organization who pays them to find out, and what does it mean for us the person that they ask, or even what does it do to the landscape of Canada?

We know what you are thinking offers some really interesting thoughts about what people think, along with some funny anecdotes to make it flow better. It wasn’t as drab and boring as some may think it would be this would be the kind of book you might want to take a look at. And, yes, I can see the doubt on your face.

Very easy to understand, also with a few unofficial quizzes to see what you have learned during reading the book. Talking of books, did you know that British Columbia, and the Atlantic Provinces reads the most books It also doesn’t hurt to mention they are both close to oceans ?

QUICK FACTS FROM WE KNOW WHAT YOU’RE THINKING

• The more formal education you have, the more beer you drink.

• 25 percent of Torontonians name Vancouver as their favourite potential place to live; 3 percent of Vancouverites

name Toronto as their favourite place to live.

• Calgary leads the nation in broccoli consumption.

• 3 percent of Canadians believe that Elvis Presley is still alive.

• Less than 1 percent of Canadian parents with young children hope their kids will grow up to be writers.

The Globe and Mail’s Ten Questions from The Great Big Canadian Quiz

HarperCollins

Peanut Butter “Smartie” Cookies

Saturday, August 8th, 2009 by Marci

Don’t these look so good !

Peanut Butter Smartie Cookies

Ingredients:

1/2 cup Shortening
1 cup Creamy or Chunky Peanut Butter ( I use chunky)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1 tbsp milk
1 tsp vanilla
1 egg
1 1/4 cup all purpose flour
3/4 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup smarites

Method:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Combine shortening, peanut butter, and sugars in to a large bowl and cream until light and fluffy. Add in milk, egg, vanilla, and beat at medium speed until well blended.

In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt and mix well. Add smarties. Then combine with wet mixture.

Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls on ungreased cookie sheets, or lined with parchment paper 2 inches apart. Flatten using a fork and criss-crossing them (flour the fork, otherwise it will stick).

Bake 8 – 10 minutes in preheated oven.

Cool 2 minutes, then remove onto rack to cool completely

Makes 2-3 dozen depending on the size you make them.

ENJOY!

We Interrupt This Broadcast “10th Anniversary Edition” – Joe Garner

Monday, November 17th, 2008 by Marci

When I had originally claimed this book, I wasn’t sure what it would entail. But I would say it is a comprehensive account of the news stories that helped shape history all around the world, and how the world now works.

The book which is 208 pages, comes with 3 audio Cd’s which also go alongside the book. Chapter by Chapter you can listen to the actual news broadcasts as you are viewing the book. Bill Curtis narrates the Cd’s.

When I opened the book, I was amazed at the depth of the stories, and pictures that accompany them. Although, I have an advanced readers copy, I am not sure as to the pictures in the book are colour, or if they are in black and white which is included in my advanced copy.

Such stories that are included are: Hiroshima, 9/11, Princess Diana’s Death, Columbine, Nixon’s Resigns from his Presidency, JFK death, John F. Kennedy’s Death, Apollo 13, just to mention a few. The stories are also tabbed in the top left handed pages of the book so that you can go along with the stories and the CD simultaneously. It is in a chronological form, so that you start at 1937 when the Hindenburg Explodes and Crashes to April 2007 with the Virginia Tech Shootings.

This would be a sure hit for the person that is a history buff, I am sure that when someone sees it laying on my table, that they will be intrigued to see what is inside.

SourceBooks

Browse Inside

Share this:

Like this:

Comic-Con IV

Share this:

Like this:

StarWars 2012

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this: