Beg, Borrow, and Steal (011)
Hi everyone! Here’s this week’s Beg, Borrow, & Steal.
These posts are my take on the In My Mailbox meme hosted by Kristi over at The Story Siren. Just a way to showcase the books in my life, because not all of them will be reviewed. 
Let’s see what came my way this week…
Begged:
Bought on sale.
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
(excuse my hair… lol)
The Italian Secretary by Caleb Carr
Finally! I can’t believe I haven’t read this yet. Love Mr. Carr.
Borrowed:
From a library.
The Vespertine by Saundra Mitchell
Finally! Been waiting for this one for MONTHS.
Steal:
Gifted book.
Falling Under by Gwen Hayes
This is a RAK from Erika @ Readspect Reviews & Such!
Thanks so much Erika!
Gorgeous cover. Shiny embossed text!!!
EXCITE!
That’s this week’s haul. Thanks for stopping by!
If you haven’t yet, check out the Banned Books Week Giveaway Hop!
Stay tuned for the Escape from YA Giveaway Hop and other events starting Oct. 2!
And be on the lookout for the Bridger (by Megan Curd) blog tour coming through.
Banned Books Week Hop
Thanks for stopping by!
This blog hop is hosted by I Am A Reader, Not A Writer and I Read Banned Books.
Some rules:
-Must be over 13 years old. If you are under 18, you must have parent/guardian permission.
-Giveaway is international as long as The Book Depository ships to you. Check here.
-Giveaway ends on October 1, 2011 at 11:59 PM PST.
-One winner will be chosen by random.org.
-You contact information provided on the form counts as your entry.
-You are not required to follow me to enter this giveaway, but it is appreciated.
I will send an email to the winner after the giveaway ends.
The winner must respond within 72 hours or a new winner will be chosen.
Now, what do you get?
I’m offering up to $15 (US) worth of banned books either from Amazon or The Book Depository.
You get to choose from the top 100 banned/challenged books from 2000-2009.
To find the full list, simply click here, courtesy of the American Library Association.
Here is a sample:
1. Harry Potter (series), by J.K. Rowling
2. Alice series, by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
3. The Chocolate War, by Robert Cormier
4. And Tango Makes Three, by Justin Richardson/Peter Parnell
5. Of Mice and Men, by John Steinbeck
6. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, by Maya Angelou
7. Scary Stories (series), by Alvin Schwartz
8. His Dark Materials (series), by Philip Pullman
9. ttyl; ttfn; l8r g8r (series), by Myracle, Lauren
10. The Perks of Being a Wallflower, by Stephen Chbosky
11. Fallen Angels, by Walter Dean Myers
12. It’s Perfectly Normal, by Robie Harris
13. Captain Underpants (series), by Dav Pilkey
14. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, by Mark Twain
15. The Bluest Eye, by Toni Morrison
16. Forever, by Judy Blume
17. The Color Purple, by Alice Walker
18. Go Ask Alice, by Anonymous
19. Catcher in the Rye, by J.D. Salinger
20. King and King, by Linda de Haan
21. To Kill A Mockingbird, by Harper Lee
22. Gossip Girl (series), by Cecily von Ziegesar
23. The Giver, by Lois Lowry
24. In the Night Kitchen, by Maurice Sendak
25. Killing Mr. Griffen, by Lois Duncan
26. Beloved, by Toni Morrison
27. My Brother Sam Is Dead, by James Lincoln Collier
28. Bridge To Terabithia, by Katherine Paterson
29. The Face on the Milk Carton, by Caroline B. Cooney
30. We All Fall Down, by Robert Cormier
… and many more!
Hard to believe some of these, isn’t it?
GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED
Good luck everyone!
Thanks for stopping by!
Remember to visit I Am A Reader, Not A Writer and I Read Banned Books
to access the linky and find hundreds more great blogs and giveaways!
Beg, Borrow, and Steal (010)
Hey all! Here’s this week’s Beg, Borrow, & Steal.
These posts are my take on the In My Mailbox meme hosted by Kristi over at The Story Siren.
Summer is winding down with the start of school so I haven’t really had time to go trolling for book deals or hunting down titles through the library, but I managed to get at least one book since my last post. That is enough to make me a happy Library Page.
Here it is!
Steal:
Caressed by Moonlight by Amanda J. Greene
Won through a giveaway over at For The Love of Reading!
Thanks to Ms. Greene for sending me the ebook herself!
Yes, it’s a vampire story, but the premise intrigued me!
Looking forward to reading it.
Thanks for stopping by!
Let me know what cool books you got your hands on this week!
And stay tuned for the Banned Books Week Hop starting on Sept. 24th!
Toaster Tuesday (004) with a touch of Library Post…
Toaster Tuesday is a series of posts about e-readers, specifically my experiences as a new Nook owner. The concept was partially inspired by a show called Battlestar Galactica. Basically the antagonists in the story are the Cylons, who are robots. The humans like to call them Toasters. I figured since there is a dichotomy between organic and electronic in the book world as well, I’d play with the idea and (affectionately) refer to my Nook as a Toaster. (Her real name is Ariadne, though, thank you very much.)
Me hanging with Walt Whitman at Panera Bread. Yum yum!
Back when I used to hate on ereaders, one of the arguments that kept me from purchasing one was price. Not of the ereader itself, but of the files I’d be downloading and reading. I felt that for the price of a physical book–all that paper, the text on it, the actual story–whenever I found deals, the books were worth the money. Compared to some of the prices I’ve seen for ebooks (more than $10 for an ebook!!), I was really skeptical about paying the same or more for a few megabytes of data. That I would never physically hold.
I still turn my nose up at higher end ebooks (unless I’m desperate). I often go for the ones that are free or only a few dollars. But the gold mine of ebooks wasn’t just those classics free from Project Gutenberg. It was in my local libraries. You see, a lot of libraries have been keeping up with the times as best they can. This doesn’t just include computer upgrades, it also extends to their collections.
The Long Beach Public Library, Los Angeles Public Library, Orange County Public Library, and County of Los Angeles Public Library all have ebook collections that can be accessed online. (Yes, I’m a patron of all those libraries. ) Now, their selections vary and they don’t have as many ebooks as physical books available, but there’s still a good chance of finding something to read. If you’re wary about ebook prices but are still interested in an ereader, check out the local libraries and see if they offer an ebook collection. Usually the ebooks can be “borrowed” for two weeks. If your time runs out and no one else is waiting for it, you can “borrow” the ebook again. It’s quite simple. The files can be downloaded to your computer, then uploaded to your device. That’s how it works with my Nook, anyway.
You’re probably wondering when I’m going to talk about all of those ebooks I get from LibraryThing, or the other ebooks I’ve received for review. Well, I’m saving that for another post. 
The other way to read ebooks not readily available at the library or for free from the Barnes & Noble e-store is to simply go to your local Barnes & Noble. You get an hour of free reading on your Nook everyday in-store. If you’re a fast reader (unlike me) it’s a great deal for you. Even if you’re not fast, sometimes you can read more than the often short ebook samples allow in a day’s hour. It’s not as convenient, sure, but for free, it’s a pretty good deal.
There’s also a lending feature on the Nook that I’d like to talk about, but I don’t actually know enough to write about it yet. But I will someday!
Now you see why this post had a touch of library post in it. What can I say, I love libraries AND I love my Nook! I get ecstatic when I can combine my affections for the two!
Library Post: When your library doesn’t have it…
It’s inevitable. All libraries have limits to their collections. One day you may find they don’t have the very book you are looking for. Never fear! If you press them some, the library may still be able to help you find your literary treasure.
- Is your library part of a library system? Does it have other branches in other locations? Other branches may have the book you need, and there is probably a delivery system in place that will get the book to your local branch. Some libraries charge a small amount for this service (a reasonable amount, like say 25 cents), some libraries provide it for free. And when you’re done with the book, you can return it to your local branch. Never fear if the book you want is at the other end of the county!
- Does your library offer ILL services? ILL stands for Inter-Library Loan. If you don’t know, it wouldn’t hurt to ask your librarian. ILL is exactly what it sounds like–if your library doesn’t own the book, it reaches out to another library or library system for the book and has it transferred for you. The drawback to this option is that it will take a while to process your request, and your allowed borrowing time for the book may be limited. If you’re not in a hurry, ILL can work for you. I’ve heard of books coming in from New York to our little California branch!
- Patron of more than one library? I have so many library cards that I have privileges at over 200 libraries in Southern California. I’ve used all of these cards at least once. Using the internet, you can probably find all of the different libraries, if any, that are closest to you and search their online catalogs. I’d suggest trying PublicLibraries.com, where you can find public library listings by state, or WorldCat.org, which is a worldwide library catalog that will help you find your title at a nearby library. If it’s not too much of a drive or bus ride, you might consider seeing what’s up at the libraries in the next county or city yourself to avoid the ILL wait.
- If the book simply is not in the library collection, you can also try submitting a purchase request. There’s no guarantee that the request will be filled, but I’ve done it at a library system I don’t work at and the request got filled (with two copies of the book at different branches!). So you don’t need to have special connections to the library to get that book onto the shelves. Well, it might help to know your librarian’s name. Please know your librarian’s name. You know what, don’t tell me. I’m going to assume the best.
If none of these options work for you, you may have to just go out and buy your own copy. I’d suggest a quick sweep of the used books on sale, just in case the book happened to be donated recently. Your librarian can help you with all of the options I listed, but don’t be distressed if your librarian can’t make it work. He or she is more than willing and able to at least help you find a nearby bookstore.
Never be afraid to ask. The library wants to help you find your book. If you get lost in the shelves looking for your title, don’t be afraid to ask! Sometimes books are in certain special areas of the library.
Beg, Borrow, and Steal (009)
Hello, hello! Time for a new Beg, Borrow, & Steal!
If you’re just joining us, these posts are my take on the In My Mailbox meme hosted by Kristi over at The Story Siren. It’s just a look at the books and book-related materials that come into my possession every week. I think it’s a great way to showcase books that may not immediately get exposure from reviews.
Let’s see what I got since last time…
Begged:
Books I absolutely had to have, found at good deals.
The Laws of Magic series by Michael Pryor
Blaze of Glory
Heart of Gold
Word of Honour
Time of Trial
Moment of Truth
Hour of Need
I discovered this series through a fluke incident.
Couldn’t find them in stores, but Blaze of Glory was only $4 on Amazon,
and they also qualified for the 4-for-3 deal, so I went for it!
If you love magic and steampunk and could do with the refreshing Edwardian setting,
get thee to these books!
The Emerald Talisman by Brenda Pandos
Currently free on Amazon for Kindle! Ninety-nine cents at B&N.
Borrowed:
Checked out from the library.
True History of the Kelly Gang by Peter Carey
Actually have to read this for a class… I’m bummed… but intrigued!
Fury by Elizabeth Miles
FURIES! LOVE!
Posses by Gretchen McNeil
Thank goodness the library processes books so fast! Must read before school starts!
The Demon Trapper’s Daughter by Jana Oliver
Steals:
Books received for review, and swag received from other book bloggers.
Swear by Nina Malkin
I love the cover of this. Aching to read Swoon, so I can dig into it!
Thanks to Simon & Schuster Galley Grab.
Lovely swag pack won from Al over at Magnet4Books’ Reviews!
Thank you, Al!
Well, that’s this week’s haul.
Be on the lookout for the Banned Books Week Hop starting on the 24th,
and the blog tour for Bridger, by Megan Curd, coming through on October 13th!
Thanks for stopping by!
Back to the Books and 100/300 Follower Giveaway Winners!
Thanks to everyone who entered the giveaways!
The winner of the Back to the Books Giveaway is
Hannah
blog: Once Upon A Time
Check out her awesome epic fantasy giveaway!
Congrats, Hannah!
And here are the results of the 100/300 Follower Giveaway!
The Misfit winner is
Aik
blog: The Bookaholics
The Wicked Appetite winner is
Shannon
Congrats to you both!
Now, the giveaway did reach 100 entries so I added a special prize.
This was the opportunity to choose any book released this summer.
The lucky winner?
Denise!
The winners have all been contacted. Congratulations to all. 
And a special thank you to all of you who follow the blog and have participated in events.
I really appreciate it.
I’m looking forward to celebrating the next milestone!
Next giveaway scheduled is for the Banned Books Week Hop.
Mark your calendars for September 24th.
And be on the lookout for the Bridger blog tour coming through soon.
Writing Post: Love Notes
Does anyone else love taking notes? I totally love taking notes. Even though it can be difficult and sometimes I resist, taking notes can sometimes make a project that much easier.
I think I’ve touched on this previously. I love to take notes when I get random inspirations. If I am in a situation where I can’t take notes, I do my best to keep the inspiration–be it a scene or a line of questioning–alive at least in my head. That can be hard at times, but I think I’ve had enough practice over the years to put me at a point where my brain takes notes for me. Sometimes I can recall scenes I imagined and then I’m able to add onto them throughout the time that I am out and about so that when I finally am able to sit down at the computer, I simply need to type in everything I know about the scene.
Whether you have the same ability or not, or even if you’re gifted and never have to take notes period, I still advocate taking notes. Over time the ability to recall inspirations fades, at least for me. And if I have to take a break from a project, it helps so much to have my ideas written out so I can go back to the project with goals and thoughts I’ve already laid out. The visual element helps a lot, I find. Sort of the way scene cards are helpful for screenwriters.
Sometimes I take notes of facts or exact lines. If one is a writer, one knows there a million ways to say one thing, and that each of those million ways has its own unique beauty and meaning. Getting the words right from a line of dialogue, for example, may be crucial. I recall once when I was on the bus and I overheard a man say, “Just because I’m small don’t mean I’m weak!” Beautiful line that I hope to use someday. I could remember it as “Just because I’m small doesn’t mean I’m weak.” But the urgency of the second rendition is diminished. Some of the character is gone.
I used to take notes on the back of my hand. There were some days when even my wrist would bear some of the burden, but I transitioned to my college notebooks (professors give the best random, fun facts) and now I use the computer more often than not. Hand oil is hard on pens!
So that’s my bit of writing thoughts today. Notes are important and I love them. I think all writers should have a system set up for taking notes. The system can be as complicated as always having a notebook and a pen. I use the back of my planner and a pen. To each his own.
Beg, Borrow, and Steal (008)
Hello everyone! Beg, Borrow, & Steal time again.
If you’re just joining us, these posts are my take on the In My Mailbox meme hosted by Kristi over at The Story Siren. It’s just a look at the books and book-related materials that come into my possession every week.
I’ve been wondering if I’ll have to change the day when I do these posts because I’ll have class on Wednesdays when school starts up. Hmm.. but I so enjoy these. They get me through hump day. We’ll see what happens.
All right, here are the books I acquired in the past week!
Begged:
Books I bought on sale!
In the Arms of Stone Angels by Jordan Dane
Personal Demons by Lisa Desrochers
Since I like angels, I had to add this to my collection!
Original Sin by Lisa Desrochers
This too!
Chime by Franny Billingsley
The premise hits my awesome button, and the cover is beautiful too.
Hereafter by Tara Hudson
Even though I get creeped out by the idea of drowning,
I am really loving this book.
The Unwanteds by Lisa McMann
Really, really happy I grabbed this.
Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins
I couldn’t resist when I saw it at Borders.
Jenny Pox by JL Bryan
Been hearing about this! Ebook cost me less than a dollar! Can’t wait to read it.
Borrowed:
Checked out from the library.
The Iron King by Julie Kagawa
I broke down and borrowed an ebook copy… I really like it so far!
Steals:
Books received for review, and items received through giveaways.
The Mosswoods by Astrid Yrigollen
Received for review through LibraryThing Member Giveaways.
Sebastian and the Afterlife by William J. Barry
Received for review through LibraryThing Early Reviewers.
Really eager to read this.
Between by Jessica Warman
ARC won from Once Upon a Twilight.
This was a pleasant surprise in my mailbox!
Thank you OUaT!
signed bookmarks for
Witch Eyes by Scott Tracey
Thank you Mr. Tracey!
Can’t wait to get a book to match. And maybe give the extras away…?
Hawaii pen
from Larissa over at Lari Is Writing.
Won this in my desperate attempt to score a signed book.
I am fully consoled I didn’t win the book by the sheer awesomeness of this pen.
Thanks, Lari!
That’s that!
About an hour and a half left to enter my Back to the Books Giveaway!
And a few days left to enter the 100/300 Follower Giveaway.
We just hit 100 entries today! I’ll be announcing the third prize soon.
Thanks for stopping by!
Toaster Tuesday (003)
Baaaaarely squeaking in on Tuesday here, but I made it! You can’t say I didn’t, haha! Okay, so this here is Toaster Tuesday if you’re new to the blog…
Toaster Tuesday is a series of posts about e-readers, specifically my experiences as a new Nook owner. The concept was partially inspired by a show called Battlestar Galactica. Basically the antagonists in the story are the Cylons, who are robots. The humans like to call them Toasters. I figured since there is a dichotomy between organic and electronic in the book world as well, I’d play with the idea and (affectionately) refer to my Nook as a Toaster. (Her real name is Ariadne, though, thank you very much.)
That’s me hanging with Edgar Allan Poe in Barnes & Noble. Ariadne’s mother ship!
Okay, last week I let Mr. Brick and Miss Mortar win the argument. But this week I’m going to talk about a reason why my Nook and other e-readers are made of win.
So, you’re (or, more likely I am) sitting waiting for a doctor’s appointment, or you’re out hanging at your favorite library, or maybe just chowing down at In-n-Out or wherever. (Mm… In-n-Out…) And you have your Nook with you. Well, what if you’re not in the mood to read the historical suspense thriller you were reading last night? Or what if you really want to check out that other book you bought on a whim because it was only 99 hot cents? (Okay, we’re really just talking about me now, aren’t we?)
No problemo! It’s right there on your Nook, waiting to be read! All of the ebooks you’ve purchased and downloaded to your device are available for your perusal as long as your battery’s charged. If you’ve already downloaded it, no wi-fi connection necessary!
Or maybe you’re writer like I am. Ever wanted to be able to carry your works-in-progress with you without having to deal with shuffling pages, the threat of paper cuts, or somehow losing that goldmine of ideas? Well, just convert your files to the correct format and you can read your own work on the device just as if it were any other ebook. You can even still highlight passages and make bookmarks and leave comments attached to the file on the device!
Total truth: I do have my own work stored on my ereader. For just one of my personal files, that’s over 200 pages of my writing in a nice, compact package in case I need a refresher on what I wrote previously. Heck, I even have my friend’s work stored on my ereader because my life has been so hectic these days, I want to be able to pull it up when I find a few seconds to spare.
It’s really easy to arrange, too. The Nook does read PDF files, but I find using the cool program called calibre helps with formatting a Nook-compatible epub file so that the text doesn’t get all wonky when I try to change font sizes. I even chose my own cover images for my works, because I am dorky like that.
So that’s another reason I fell and fell hard for the Nook. It’s just so.. convenient. It will never take the place of a physical book in my hands, but it’s pretty darn handy, gotta say.
