Nicole Reviews: Not Dead and Not For Sale: The Earthling Papers- A Memoir by Scott Weiland with David Ritz

Click here for the book description.


Available at Amazon, Book Depository, Chapters, Simon and Schuster Canada

Scott Weiland is my most favourite musical artist of all time.  When I found his book sitting on the biography table at Chapters, I knew that I had to have it.  My birthday was the next day, so I told my husband that this book was the one thing that I truly wanted.  As always, he came through- and now it has become one of the most cherished books on my book case.

  

To me, Scott and the band STP represent my youth.  I was introduced to their music over 15 years ago, and I was an instant fan.  Scott's lyrics are honest and deep, and the band's music is out of this world.  I fell in love with Scott right away.  I find it funny that now, in my thirties I still have my teenage crush on him.  I know that he has made many wrong choices and through the writings of this book, he is the first to admit them.

Scott's memoir is a brief overview.  It was a quick, raw and honest look into his life.  I wanted to see more depth, but understandably he was reserved, as his life has been plastered in the media.  I mean everything has been out on display for years.  That is what happens when you are a rock star, and find yourself deep in trouble.

Nicole Reviews: Forbidden by Tabitha Suzuma

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Available at Amazon, Book Depository, Chapters

Generally when I pick a novel, I like to read ones that have a light and "fluffy" plot, with easy characters.  I like to escape into their fictional world.  So naturally when Jackie asked me to review FORBIDDEN, I was more than a bit hesitant.  I read the brief overview on the back (which I almost never do), and truthfully the thought of reading this book made my stomach turn.  Then I gave myself a shake, and thought that there is nothing wrong with reading something outside of my comfort zone.  I am sure glad that I did because the minute I started reading this book I was hooked.  I have one word to describe this book, and it is ... FANTASTIC!!!

    The author did a wonderful job connecting me with these characters and their world.  She made me feel as though I was witnessing their struggles first hand. I wanted to wrap my arms around each one of these kids and tell them that everything was going to be alright. 

"... I didn't take the photo from my room.  Perhaps Maya will remember it and keep it safe.  But I can't help hoping she'll cut off the two adults at either end of the bench and just keep the five children sandwiched in the middle.  Because ultimately, that was the family that we became." (pg.417  Lochan)

Nicole Reviews: So Much Closer by Susane Colasanti

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Available from Amazon, Book Depository, Penguin.ca

"One of the most amazing things that can happen is finding someone who sees everything you are and won't let you be anything less.  They see the potential of you.  They see endless possibilities.  And through their eyes, you start to see yourself the same way.  As someone who matters.  As someone who can make a difference in this world.

If you are lucky enough to find that person, never let them go."  (pg.241)

This is what the author leaves you with at the end of this book.  It is a powerful message, that unfortunately not everyone understands when it comes to their relationships.

This novel is about a struggling teenager.  Her relationship with her parents is strained, and she has masked her potential and intelligence in order to fit in with her peers.  She thinks she is in love with this (in her eyes) popular, talented and handsome boy.  When she finds out that he is moving to New York City- she moves to her Dad's house... conveniently down the block from the boy.

Nicole Reviews: He's So Not Worth It by Kieran Scott

Ally Ryan, come on down to the Jersey Shore and forget your troubles!

Have you recently been humiliated in front of your friends and family at your former best friend's birthday party? Was your almost boyfriend partly responsible for that humiliation by withholding some vital information about where your estranged father is? Did you come home to find said estranged father sitting on your stoop?

If so, then it sounds like you could use a vacation! The Jersey Shore is the place to be. Your mother may be living with her boyfriend of only a few months, but at least the stunt Shannen pulled has put some of your friends back in your court. Even so, you're still angry and what better way to get over Jake than to blow off some steam with local guy, Cooper? People will hardly recognize your new attitude, but the old one wasn't getting you anywhere, so who cares!

Jake Graydon, an exciting opportunity is waiting for you in the service industry!

Are your grades so low your parents have grounded you for the summer? Did you the girl you really like unceremoniously leave you behind? Would you rather eat dirt than see your friends again? Then a job at the local coffee shop is just the ticket! Surprisingly, Ally's father is the new manager so you get to be reminded of her nearly every day. Maybe it's time to start flirting with your best friend's ex or even taking school a bit more seriously. Especially when you finally see Ally and she's hanging around with some loser and it's couldn't be more clear that she is over you.

Have a great summer!

Available at Amazon, Book Depository

A little while ago, I introduced you to my friend, Nicole (her first review is here). She enjoyed the reading/reviewing part so much I got her to agree to come on board for more! So, as I gently mould her into a book reviewer, lol, I gave her a few things to think about as she read He's So Not Worth It by Kieran Scott. Here's what she had to say:

When I was half finished the book, Jackie told  me that this was the second book in the series.  I don't feel that reading the first book is a necessity, but it may help.  At times, it felt like the author expected me to know the characters history, and how the previous plot twisted and turned. (Jackie interprets this as: First book would be a big asset in understanding this book also)  It may have helped me to connect more with the characters.  With saying that, the author left it VERY open for the third book.  I feel that it is a MUST to read this book before moving onto the third.