Top Ten Things That Make My Life As A Blogger & Reader Easier/Better

Guys, I'm back! I haven't a Top Ten Tuesday in soo long and it feels great to be part of the daily influx of Top Ten Tuesday posts again. I've been wanting to do one for a while but honestly, haven't been feeling the topics. But as soon as I saw this on the schedule for Top Ten Tuesdays, I knew I would be participating! So gather around as I list the ten things that make my bloggy/bookish life MUCH easier.

1. Disqus

So it's a little slow to load but you don't understand how big of a help Disqus is. It has built-in filters which means I can moderate comments without having to manually approve them. And as a reader of blogs, THANK YOU for sending me emails when bloggers reply. I'm very bad with checking for replies which makes me feel super guilty. Tell me I'm not alone?

2. Bloglovin'

Now, my relationship with Bloglovin' is pretty tumultuous. I hate it and love it at the same time. It's great at organizing my blogs and I love how I can like posts in case I want to go back to them later. However, it sucks at keeping my feed updated and accounting for ALL blog posts. And because of this, I'm thinking of switching to Feedly. But for now, Bloglovin' is a great help.

3. Goodreads

Beneficial to both the blogger and the reader in me. I love that I can create a TBR list without exerting a lot of energy. And what would I do if Goodreads wasn't there to supply me blurbs for books? I would cry if I had to type out the ones from the books.

4. PicMonkey/Pixlr

I've only recently discovered Pixlr but PicMonkey has been helping me with graphics for my blog for ages. I love that it has cute overlays I can add to jazz up my graphics. It's the first program I open when I need new graphics. If, by the end of the PicMonkey session, I need to do more advanced editing, I run straight to Pixlr. It's amazing and I love it to bits even though it was a nightmare figuring things out at first. But honestly, without these two, my blog would be incredibly bland.

5. The library

No words are needed for this. Self-explanatory for every book lover and blogger alike.

6. My Kobo

I never knew I would love an eReader so much until I got one. I treat this like my baby and even though mine is a first edition and NOWHERE as good as the Kobos now, I love it to bits. Also, those awards they hand out are pretty darn cool.

7. Twitter

I didn't get why bloggers used Twitter so religiously at first but now, I get it. It's a great way to get your posts out there and also, meeting new bloggers. I love everyone on this site, okay? And I wish I could be best friends with all y'all. 

8. OneNote

I've never been great with scheduling but with OneNote by my side, I want to schedule and be as efficient as all the other bloggers. There are still some things I need to figure out before my blog becomes a well-oiled machine churning out posts right on time but I'm almost there. Just need a little more time is all. But besides loving OneNote for its great scheduling potential, I love that I can stash my post ideas and drafts all in one place. And that auto-save? Man, we need to have that for EVERYTHING.

9. Book blogs

Book blogs are the best. Really. Without all of the amazing blogs out there, none of this would have ever happened. So THANK YOU. I love you all.

What Tickles My Fancy | Day 8

We're past the half-way mark! It's day 8 and it's time to CELEBRATE!

If you've been looking to impress me, today's your lucky day! I'm dishing out 15 (or as many as I can) things about what I look for in a blog. Now I must admit, when it comes to blogs, appearance is number one. I can't help it, I'm aesthetically driven. And if that sounds shallow, yes it is! Without further ado, here is my list of the 15 things I take into consideration when it comes to my blog and other blogs. 

Disclaimer: Sorry if I sound like a condescending butt, I don't mean to! 

1. No neon colored text

Hey, I love all the colors but when it comes down to reading on a screen, neon colors just aren't the most comfortable. No highlighter yellows or greens or pinks or anything that looks like it can be the color for a highlighter.

2. No more than three fonts; otherwise, it's too busy

This was something I read on a blog a while back and it's a great suggestion. You really don't need more than three fonts. It's up to you what those three are but the best combination would be a fun and crazy font (Amatic, in my case), a serif (Georgia) and a sans-serif (Verdana).

3. Sans-serif text for posts

In my opinion, sans-serif is just much easier to read than serif on screen. 

4. A clean sidebar, preferably on the right side of the page

Sidebars are super important but a super cluttered one is a nay. Try keeping things minimum, only having things you really need and if you can afford to do so, some fun widgets! And a sidebar on the right-side is just a personal preference!

5. An archive widget of all your posts

When I find a new blog, the first thing I do is surf their archive. It's how I determine if I want to subscribe to them. If their archive is a good balance of all the things I like to see as far as content in a blog, then I'm clicking ENTER! 

6. An equal balance of reviews, memes, discussions, blog tours and all that jazz

I don't need to explain, do I?

7. A detailed About

I'd like to know who the mastermind behind the blog is!

8. Relatively fast loading

I'm not going to avoid your blog if it's a bit slower to load but it would be nice for it to be quick, wouldn't it?

9. At least five posts on display at a time but preferably, 10 to 15

I like taking the time to flip through old posts on blogs but I don't want to be constantly flipping. I don't want to have to flip every three posts. My index finger will get sore!

10. A rating system

They're the handiest things on earth. Or if you don't have a rating system but you have something like Jamie's post-it note, that's fine too! As long as I can take one glance at it and have a rough idea of what you thought, that's great!

11. A fun and catchy title

The title is what I remember you by. The more times I repeat it, the catchier it is, the better I'll remember you!

12. Big text

Reading off a screen is hard enough as is so don't make me go through tiny 10 pixel font! Make it big and clear! 

13. Cute graphics in your posts

Graphics are super important in your posts because (a) they are super cute and (b) they help break up large chunks of text which is NEVER easy to look at. And I know I'm guilty of not doing this a lot. Yikes!

14. A cute favicon and/or button

This isn't necessary at all but I was running out of ideas.

15. An authentic and unique voice!

By far, the most important! If you have a clear voice, you don't need to have the most aesthetically perfect blog! I'm coming back for you and you only!

My Blogging Quirks | Day 7

My lucky number: 7! And now here are some BLOGGING confessions.

Just because I need a pop of color, I made another graphic. It's really time consuming but I can't stop. Oh, and excuse some of the quirks you may have already read about in My Bookish Confessions. I was struggling.

1. I always write my reviews in one sitting.

One thing about me when it comes to my studies is that I always write all my essays at once (most of it, at least). I think it's just good for me to get down all my ideas and then once that's done, go back and edit. The same thing applies to my blog, I guess. Since the beginning, I've always written all my reviews in one sitting. I just can't NOT do it. But a little part of me suspects it has a little to do with the guilt I feel over not being as active as other bloggers so when I do write reviews, I'm just really eager to get them out. 

2. Once I'm done, I'm DONE.

As soon as I type that last word, it's straight to publishing. I don't edit (mostly because I edit along the way) and I don't look over. What's done is done, right?

3. I like spontaneity.

Which is my excuse to why I don't schedule (re: #7). But I do like spontaneity and working on my OWN time. I have enough deadlines for school and it's definitely not in my interest to add more. Of course, I have some sense of when to create new material but it's not pin-pointed so if something comes up, my schedule is flexible enough that I can really do it any other day.

4. I like to write my reviews as soon after I've finished the book as possible.

Again, this is because I am a strong believer of getting out all my ideas all at once. Like a brain dump. And with books, I'm just really bad at remembering details in general so now that I've started reviewing, I just need to get to that computer!

5. I like making little improvements to my blog. 

When it comes to aesthetics, my perfectionism kicks in. It just has to look perfect which is why the way my blog looks is never enough for me because perfect is not an actual thing I can achieve. I won't lie though, I'm pretty darn proud of how my blog is now but just wait a few weeks and something will get tweaked and changed.

6. I can never bring myself to cross-post.

I don't like cross-posting and I've never done it. Probably never will. It's not that I have an aversion to posting reviews on Goodreads and such, it's just that I feel like I should have different material to go on Goodreads so it's not like I'm copy and pasting from my blog. Not that I judge others when they do that, it's just not for me. But then because I'm not willing to write two different reviews, I skip on posting to Goodreads completely.

7. I've tried scheduling but I just...can't.

I'm actually very good at scheduling for school. My agenda was well-used this year and it was all a great success. But when it comes to blogging, I just can't schedule. I mean, I've tried but I don't follow it. Oh well.

8. I LOVE making graphics for my posts (clearly).

Ever since discovering PicMonkey, I've gradually become more and more obsessed. Like I've said above, it takes up a lot of time but I just can't help it. I like making graphics. Period.

My Bookish Confessions Part 2

So here's part two of my Bookish Confessions series. You guys already know what you're here for so I'll stop talking and cut straight to the chase.

1. I like to write my review as soon after I've finished the book as possible.
Sure, I take notes as I read but no matter what I do, the words always come easier to me when I've just finished the book.

2. I never schedule my posts.
Well, unless you count doing Top Ten Tuesdays on Tuesday, then I might have to reconsider. But no, I don't schedule my posts at all. I kind of just go with the flow. I have reviews up after I've finished a book I think is appropriate to review and beyond that, I simply write whatever I think my blog is needing. For example, if I haven't done a Seeing Double in a while, I'll make it a point to throw one in in the future.

3. I'm not afraid to dog-ear funny pages in certain books.
I know some people don't like dog-earing but I'm all for it...in certain books. If it's a ratty book that I read from time to time for enjoyment (like my copy of The Undomestic Goddess), then you can't hold me back from folding down a couple corners to mark some laugh-out-loud moments. But if it's a sleek new copy of The 5th Wave, say, (which I snatched up yesterday!) then you can bet there ain't going to be any folding going on here!

4. Nor am I afraid to write in my books.
This goes mostly for all the classics I own and have read. They're much harder for me to digest so occasionally, I'll mark down my thoughts in the margins. I can flip back later and see all my deep thoughts.

5. I don't organize my books.
Not that I even have enough books to create an entire library system but nevertheless, I am not one to organize my books. Not by author or title - heck, my books aren't even all on the bookshelf! They're all scattered around my home which can be annoying when I'm searching for a particular book and just can't find it. At times, it'll be rather funny when all of the sudden, I'm brushing my teeth and I notice my old copy of the Philosopher's Stone on the counter. But over the weekend, I managed to rally up all my books and place them back onto the bookshelf. Unfortunately, I haven't made the effort to at least put them nicely on the shelf yet so my bookshelf is looking like this:

I think I've run out of confessions as of now but if you have ones you would like to share, don't hesitate to leave a comment! I'd love to hear from you! :)

My Bookish Confessions Part 1

Here's to letting you know that I'm still alive! While I may not be posting every week now, I'm still constantly checking my feed and lately, I've been noticing a trend in confession posts. And because I am a very trendy person, I will be hopping on the bandwagon today with my edition of Bookish Confessions. Let's get started!

1. I prefer paperbacks over hardcovers.
No matter how much I love dust covers, I have to say I'm on Team Paperback. Sure, my covers get crinkled but there's a certain aura of awesomeness to a book that appears read. Paperbacks are also much cheaper which is always a plus when you're a bookaholic.

2. I prefer borrowing books over buying.
That is a lie. I don't acutally prefer borrowing over buying, I just make myself borrow books. Because when I'm let out in a bookstore, I go full out. I'll buy stupid looking books that I'm not even interested in, simply for the sake of buying a book. Which is why, in order to save my money from being spent on books I don't want to read, I borrow most of my books. With the exception of some books I just have to have. Y'all get me, right?

3. Music always has to be playing as I'm updating my blog.
Music is basically a must for anything I'm doing surrounding a computer. There's something calming about having some background noise (even if it's Call Me Maybe) while I'm typing away. It helps get my creative juices flowing. Writing reviews with music in the background is a thousand times easier than writing one without.

4. I never read over my posts.
It's not that I don't care enough about this blog to make it picture perfect, it's simply the fact that I want my voice to be as authentic as possible. And while I'm all for correcting spelling or grammatical errors is dandy, I find myself deleting whole lines of my posts when I do reread. I'm a born perfectionist and it would take me ages if I were to make every post as perfect as I would like them to be. I would never get any content out ever if I did that. Most of all though, my blog is my comfort-zone and that means being me without shame that people will judge me if I am super wacky and crazy sometimes.

5. I always write my reviews in one sitting.
I read a lot of books and it's easy for storylines to get muddled in my brain (My book blog was partially started to prevent this). After I've finished a book is when I have the clearest opinion on the book and I want to get all that out before they slip away. Which is why I write all my reviews in one sitting.


What about you? What are some of your bookish quirks? Let me know in the comments! And stay tuned for Part 2!

NPR's 100 Best-Ever Teen Novels

The one thing I do when I'm bored is surf Epic Reads. My ultimate feed source for all things BOOK. Authors, reviews, fun lists, music, giveaways, and quizzes all in one place! I haven't checked Epic Reads in a while and today, I decided to catch up on some well-overdue blog posts. While I was skimming, I found a curious list of the top 100 YA books. Why had I never seen this before?

Guys, I have a confession. I love it when people create lists of books to read. It's awesome and a wonderful challenge for competitive me. As I scrolled through this list, I saw tons of titles of books I had read, tons of titles of series I had partially finished, titles of books that were on my TBR list, and books I had never heard of. I wanted to document all this, so here is my documentation. Hope it doesn't get too confusing!

(If you would like to view the original post made at NPR, click this link.)

Red: Books/Series I have finished
Blue: Books/Series that have yet to be finished

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1. Harry Potter (series) by J.K. Rowling

2. The Hunger Games (series) by Suzanne Collins

3. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

4. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

5. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

6. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

7. The Lord of the Rings (series) by J.R.R. Tolkien

8. Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

9. Looking for Alaska by John Green

10. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

11. The Giver (series) by Lois Lowry

12. The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (series) by Douglas Adams

13. The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton

14. Anne of Green Gables (series) by Lucy Maud Montgomery (4/8)

15. His Dark Materials (series) by Philip Pullman

16. The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

17. The Princess Bride by William Goldman

18. Lord of the Flies by William Golding

19. Divergent (series) by Veronica Roth (1/3)

20. Paper Towns by John Green

21. The Mortal Instruments (series) by Cassandra Clare

22. An Abundance of Katherines by John Green

23. Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes

24. Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher

25. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon

26. Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

27. Twilight (series) by Stephenie Meyer

28. Uglies (series) by Scott Westerfeld

29. The Infernal Devices (series) by Cassandra Clare

30. Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt

31. The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie

32. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (series) by Anne Brashares

33. The Call of the Wild by Jack London

34. Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green, David Levithan

35. Go Ask Alice by Anonymous

36. Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones

37. Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli

38. A Separate Peace by John Knowles

39. Vampire Academy (series) by Richelle Mead

40. Abhorsen Trilogy / Old Kingdom Trilogy (series) by Garth Nix

41. Dune by Frank Herbert

42. Discworld / Tiffany Aching (series) by Terry Pratchett

43. My Sister’s Keeper by Jodi Picoult

44. The Dark is Rising (series) by Susan Cooper

45. Graceling (series) Kristin Cashore

46. Forever… by Judy Blume

47. Earthsea (series) by Ursula K. Le Guin

48. Inheritance Cycle (series) by Christopher Paolini

49. The Princess Diaries (series) by Meg Cabot

50. The Song of the Lioness (series) by Tamora Pierce

51. Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson

52. Delirium (series) by Lauren Oliver

53. Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins

54. Hush, Hush (series) by Becca Fitzpatrick

55. 13 Little Blue Envelopes by Maureen Johnson

56. It’s Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini

57. The Gemma Doyle Trilogy (series) by Libba Bray (1/3)

58. Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs

59. The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros

60. Something Wicked This Way Comes by Ray Bradbury

61. The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier

62. Just Listen by Sarah Dessen

63. A Ring of Endless Light by Madeleine L’Engle

64. The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen

65. The Bartimaeus Trilogy (series) by Jonathan Stroud

66. Bloodlines (series) by Richelle Mead

67. Fallen (series) by Lauren Kate

68. House of Night (series) by P.C. Cast Kristin Cast

69. I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith

70. Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn, David Levithan

71. Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

72. Unwind by Neal Shusterman

73. The Last Unicorn by Peter S. Beagle

74. The Maze Runner Trilogy (series) by James Dashner

75. If I Stay by Gayle Forman

76. The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley

77. Crank (series) by Ellen Hopkins

78. Matched (series) by Ally Condie

79. Gallagher Girls (series) by Ally Carter

80. The Goose Girl by Shannon Hale

81. Daughter of the Lioness / Tricksters (series) by Tamora Pierce

82. I Am the Messenger by Markus Zusak

83. The Immortals (series) by Tamora Pierce

84. The Enchanted Forest Chronicles (series) by Patricia C. Wrede

85. Chaos Walking (series) by Patrick Ness (1/3)

86. Circle of Magic (series) by Tamora Pierce

87. Daughter of Smoke & Bone by Laini Taylor

88. Feed by M.T. Anderson

89. Weetzie Bat (series) by Francesca Lia Block

90. Along for the Ride by Sarah Dessen

91. Confessions of Georgia Nicolson (series) by Louise Rennison

92. Leviathan (series) by Scott Westerfeld

93. The House of the Scorpion by Nancy Farmer

94. The Chronicles of Chrestomanci (series) by Diana Wynne Jones

95. This Lullaby by Sarah Dessen

96. Gone (series) by Michael Grant

97. The Shiver Trilogy (series) by Maggie Stiefvater

98. The Hero and the Crown by Robin McKinley

99. Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson

100. Betsy-Tacy (series) by Maud Hart Lovelace

That's 17 books read out of 100! Seems I need to get cracking!

Annie's Infinite Playlist

I love music. I sing and listen to my many awesome playlists every day. However, I suck at creating a good mixtape. I've never tried but I know. I suck. I don't know what's good together, and until a how-to manual is written on this, don't expect one from me. Mixtapes and playlists, I find, go hand in hand. Which means I'm no good at playlists either. I just curate a bunch of my favourite songs and throw them together. Not much thought goes into it. My point is, that these playlists are most likely going to suck. Really. But I can guarantee you (unless you don't like the same music I do) that the songs are great. Well, most of them.

Having said that, I introduce to you my infinite playlist. (The title is taken from Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist, in case anyone is looking to sue me, here's creds). Some of them are playlists for genres, moods, some for certain books. Enjoy!

I'll Be There by Holly Goldberg Sloan

I'll Be There - Jackson 5 

Coming Home - John Legend

Need You Now - Lady Antebellum

I Won't Give Up - Jason Mraz

The House That Built Me - Miranda Lambert

Come Back...Be Here - Taylor Swift

You Found Me - The Fray

How To Save A Life - The Fray

If I Die Young - The Band Perry

Blowing In The Wind - Bob Dylan

Books That Are Ridiculously Hilarious

i.e. Confessions of Georgia Nicolson, any Sophia Kinsella book, Magic in Manhattan series

Up - Shania Twain

Everybody Talks - Neon Trees

Gonna Get Over You - Sara Bareilles

We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together - Taylor Swift

You Belong With Me - Taylor Swift

Hey Stephen - Taylor Swift 

Ready Or Not - Bridgit Mendler

22 - Taylor Swift

Crocodile Rock - Elton John

Yellow Submarine - The Beatles

Brighter Than The Sun - Colbie Caillat

I Wanna Dance With Somebody - Whitney Houston

You and I - Ingrid Michaelson

Animal - Neon Trees

Gangnam Style - PSY

I Want It That Way - The Backstreet Boys

Everything At Once - Lenka

Video Killed The Radio Star - The Buggles

Dystopia Books

Because they usually include a fight

I Will Survive - Gloria Gaynor

I'll Make A Man Out Of You - Mulan

Don't Dream It's Over - Crowded House

Change - Taylor Swift

Dog Days Are Over - Florence and the Machine

Sing - My Chemical Romance

It's Time - Imagine Dragons

The Lonely - Christina Perri

Bulletproof - La Roux

Eyes Open - Taylor Swift

Stop And Stare - OneRepublic

And some other songs I love:

Can't Say No - Conor Maynard*

Lisztomania - Phoenix

Little Talks - Of Monsters And Men

Anna Sun - Walk The Moon

If I Lose Myself - OneRepublic

'81 - Joanna Newsom

Crazy - Gnarls Barkley

Pure Imagination - Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory

Reflection - Mulan 

I Won't Say I'm In Love - Hercules

I Wanna Be Like You - The Jungle Book

The Only Difference Between Martyrdom and Suicide - Panic! At The Disco

Miss Murder - AFI

You Know I'm No Good - Amy Winehouse

Rehab - Amy Winehouse

She's So High - Tal Bachman

Stars - Grace Potter and the Nocturnals

She's Alright - Stereophonics

Ho Hey - The Lumineers

Bright Lights, Big City - Cee Lo Green

That's All - Genesis

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Sorry guys! I totally didn't anticipate this would be so long! Argh, this is the problem with me! I just start listing songs that I love instead of doing the activity at hand. Anyway, I hope this is okay...

* As a girl, I am terribly disappointed by this song...and most of his other songs. I find the lyrics insulting but I can't help but sing along to this song whenever it comes on. It's so catchy. 

The Best Of The Book Blogs

Since I did not do this at the slotted time, I will be doing this now. As part of the Book Blogger Love-a-Thon, we were given the option to do Mini Challenges. The first Mini Challenge was to construct a short(ish) list of three to five book bloggers that fit well in four different "Best..." themes.

Here are my picks!

Best Reviews: 

Frenetic Reader 

I love Khy's reviews because they're detailed and specific. And clear! After reading her reviews, I have an idea on if I should read ___ book. When I'm in reading trouble, I can always look to Khy for help!

The Perpetual Page-Turner 

The reason why I love Jamie's reviews so much is the layout! I love the way she groups her reviews and I can choose whether or not I want to read the whole thing, or just the Review On A Post-It, which is, by the way, a great idea! Especially for me, someone who doesn't like reading the entire review all the time.

Hello Chelly

Hello Chelly is a blog I have only found recently but have fell in love with. Rachel, like Jamie, also groups her reviews, though in a different way. The plus side of this is always that I can choose what to read. The reviews are simple and sweet. 

Best Discussion Posts: 

Perpetual Page Turner 

I think we can all agree that Jamie has awesome discussion posts. I love her wacky topics, like, remember that time she talked about her butt? But I totally understand her and I look forward to when she posts a discussion.

The Broke and the Bookish 

Well, The Broke and the Bookish do not do discussion posts often. However, I loved their A Cocktail and a Conversation feature and I wish they did more of them! They were so much fun to read through! 

Makeshift Bookmark 

Anything that is not a review counts as a discussion and boy, does Makeshift Bookmark have some good discussions! Jen and Carla make me actually LOL time and time again. I love them!

Best Layout: 

The Story Siren

I love the greys and blues and the layout is so easy to use! I can find exactly what I am looking for in a matter of seconds! And I love the mermaid!

Hello Chelly 

The color theme is gorgeous. I mean, turquoise and pink? LOVE. I love the way it looks against a white background. The fact that I know that everything is on the right makes for easy sailing on my part.

Rather Be Reading 

Since their makeover, Estelle and Magan's whole blog is a gorgeous, green wonderland. (I want Alex to redo my blog, too!)  It's so organized and I cannot remember a time where I was at a lost of where to find anything.

Best Theme: 

Clear Eyes, Full Shelves 

Friday Night Lights. And even though I have no idea what Friday Night Lights is about nor have I ever watched a single episode (was John Travolta in it?), this blog makes me want to, just so I can get in on all the  jokes and fun!

Novel Sounds 

Music. If ever I'm searching for new music to listen to, or music to listen to while reading a certain book, I know I can look to Elena for help. Her blog is also absolutely gorgeous.

Rather Be Reading

 Well, their blog doesn't really have a theme, but their background...Oh! The tree, the green, the stripes! Everything is gorgeous! I love it!

Lisa Is Busy Nerding 

Board games and TV shows are a staple at Lisa Is Busy Nerding. I love the way she is able to juggle so many themes and I admire her for it.

Top Ten Books I'd Want With Me on a Deserted Island

I haven't done TTT in a while so I'm quite happy to be back! Today's topic is pure awesome and I hope it to be as interesting as possible! Note my strategy to include as many series as possible since well, The Broke and the Bookish did it and I suppose that gives me permission to do it as well.

1. The Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling

Well, I can't really live without rereading the Harry Potter series. You can only get the FULL experience by reading it at least twice. And it'd totally supply me with tons of reading material.

2. The Shopaholic Series by Sophie Kinsella

I would've done everything by Sophie Kinsella but of course, I can't do that so the Shopaholic series it is!

3. The Heroes of Olympus Series by Rick Riordan

I can't live without knowing what happens to Percy either. I mean, I've stuck around so long! 

4.  Cherub Series by Robert Muchamore

I can't read all chick-lits! I need to get my fill on adventure too! Behold the Cherub series!

5. Pretty Little Liars Series by Sara Shepard

Again, I have to know what happens! I mean, seriously!

6. The Ellen DeGeneres Series by Ellen DeGeneres

OK, so I know this isn't really a series but Ellen! If I can't watch Ellen, then I should be able to read her books!

7. Neil Flambe Series by Kevin Sylvester

These books can help me get my daily fix of Food Network which I NEED!!!!

8. Charlie Bone Series by Jenny Nimmo

I need to finish this as well!

9. Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins

Sounds so good and I have to read Stephanie!!! It's a must!

10. Meant to Be by Lauren Morrill

A story set in Britland...my kind of book!

Now, if I do get stuck on an island, I am totally prepared! :) Check in next week...hopefully! 

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by the gals over at The Broke and the Bookish.

Top Ten Tuesday Freebie

Today is TTT Freebie so I get to choose my topic! Yay! I know I haven't been doing this lately but I'm very excited to start it again! 

This week's topic is... Favourite Words

1. Supercalifragillisticexpialidocious

In my defense, it was added to a dictionary! Just don't ask me which one...Took me forever to learn how to spell this one!

2. Psychedelic

I have no idea why I find this word so fascinating but I just love saying it!

3. Fabulous

Reminds me of my old High School Musical days...Love Sharpay...

4. Delicious

Used constantly to describe glazed honey donuts! :)

5. Totally

I love this word too! I use it so often and it's so much fun to say!

6. Panini

Delicious and fun to say...what more could I ask for??

7. Wistful

Wistful reminds me of wishful and I think the close relationship between the two really pushed me to add this word on this list. I mean, no other word is like that!

8. Zest

Everytime I hear this word, I think instantly of lemons...

9. Magnetic

I don't know why but I adore this word. ADORE!

10. Awesome

Well, duh! I had to add it on this list cuz well, I'm awesome! :)

I'm very happy to be back again, Yay! Love y'all! :)

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by the gals over at The Broke and the Bookish.

Top 10 Favourite Author in X Genre

I've done a lot of thinking and I really can't think of ten authors I like from one specific genre so I've divided it into two. Here we go! PS. Sorry for doing it a day late...I didn't have time to finish it yesterday. #toomuchhomework

Contemporary a.k.a My Most Read Genre

1. Sarah Dessen

Yes, so I've only read one book by her! Blah blah blah! I would totally read all her books in one sitting if I had the time. And you should know, that's practically impossible for me to do because I get bored so easily. It's saying a lot. I love how she's able to completely understand us teens. After all, we are a complex thing and for her to write about us in a way that we approve...WOW, is all I can say.

2. John Green

Gus and Hazel's relationship was a masterpiece and I would say that that automatically puts him on this list. I mean, I showed a wider range of emotion while reading this book than I did in a month. Like seriously. 

3. David Levithan

Again, a master at all things contemporary. He really understands teenagers and how they work (just like Sarah) and I appreciate that. Finally, something that understands me!

4. Maureen Johnson

The Little Blue Envelopes series was A-MA-ZING! I really hope she'll write another series similiar to Little Envelopes because...well, travelling around Europe, British guys, and envelopes? What more can I ask for? A-MA-ZING!

5. Susanne Colasanti

Again, understands me very well. Again, is put on this list because of that.

Fantasy a.k.a One of My Least Read Genres After Harry Potter

1. J.K. Rowling

Well, she created one of my favorite series of all time and so I think J.K. definitely belongs on this list.

2. Stephenie Meyer

To be honest with you, I hated the Twilight series. The idea was good but the writing style just didn't work for me. However, her redeeming point was the wonderful chemistry she crafted and so therefore, she is worthy enough to be added onto this list.

3. Suzanne Collins

The Hunger Games were really good and Peeta and Katniss' relationship was so exciting!


4. Neil Gaiman

Coraline = Awesomeness
The Graveyard Book = Most Likely to be Awesomeness
Neil Gaiman = On my auto-read fantasy list


5. Rick Riordan

Now, I'm not a super fan of Rick but as long as he keeps publishing books on Greek mythology, I think he'll be okay. ;)



Comment me your lists and if you have any suggestions for authors I should try! :)

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by the gals over at The Broke and the Bookish.

Top Ten Rewind!

Yay! This week's topic is just what I needed! There are so many topics I would like to do...hmm...how about Top Ten Authors I Want at My Thanksgiving Dinner? To celebrate Canadian Thanksgiving!

1. Maureen Johnson

Maureen is HI-LA-RI-OUS and I would love to have her at my dinner! She'd offer some great laughs.

2. John Green

I adore him and his books (especially The Fault in Our Stars) and I would love to geek out with him!!! Getting shivers just thinking about that!!!

3. Elizabeth Eulberg

I love her blog and the two books I've read so far have been amazing. She seems so down-to-earth and I would be totally fine with playing The Beatles during our dinner. TOTALLY!!!! :)

4. J.K. Rowling

Now, why wouldn't I invite her? 

5.  Sophie Kinsella

Again, I would be crazy to not invite her!!!

6. Raina Telgemeier

Do graphic novelists count? They do in my book! Smile and her latest book, Drama were amazing and the drawings were so cute! I would love to have her over and discuss how to improve my drawing talents.

7. Sara Shepard

We could talk Pretty Little Liars!!! Finally, someone who will be able to stand with my constant PLL chatter! Hopefully.

8. Rick Riordan

Percy Jackson? Percy JACKSON????? Need I go on? Honestly, he's pure awesomeness!!!! Even if  I have some feelings about him...

9. Neil Pasricha

Fellow Torontonians unite!! I was actually very, very close to meeting him but then his security said that he had to leave. :( At least, I got a pic of the back of his head! Well, no matter! He's coming too and I will definitely DEFINITELY get his autograph this time!

10. Sarah Mlynowski

Another Canadian - though not from Toronto! Sarah is funny and I will definitely enjoy seeing her and Maureen go head to head in the Hilariousity Contest!

And so that's it! My Thanksgiving Dinner line-up! RSVP by Thursday! Thanks!!! xoxo

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by the gals over at The Broke and the Bookish.

Top Ten Series I Have Yet To Finish

This week's topic will definitely be a good way for me to keep track of the MANY series I have yet to finish. So I present to you this week's Top Ten!

1. Magic in Manhattan by Sarah Mlynowski

OMG I loved the first three books of this series!!!! Unfortunately, my friend has not been very reliable and I have still not received the fourth book...and I asked her TWO YEARS ago!!!! I think I'll just go to the library instead...

2. Secrets of my Hollywood Life by Jen Calonita

I really liked this series and all the book were great (except for Paparazzi Princess...) and I'm looking forward to finishing soon!

3. Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery

These books are so SWEET! It's like the 20th century equivalent of today's chick lit! I LOVE IT!!! The only thing stopping me from finishing this series is that...well...there are like ten books!!! And the lovable youthful Anne living in beautiful,beautiful Cavendish is gone by book 5! Hmmm...this requires a little more contemplation.

4. Geronimo Stilton by Geronimo Stilton

I made a vow to myself in Grade 3 that I would read all the Geronimo books. I have yet to finish.

5. Neil Flambe by Kevin Sylvester

I remember reading the first book in Grade 5 and it was pure genius! The fourth book is out now and I'm still on the third! Must get my hands on these soon!

6. The Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket

As a child, these were my favorite books. Now, going back and reading it again I find it a bit repetitive but still very very cute. The thing is, I read them out of order so I have NO IDEA which books to read! 

7. The Chaos Walking by Patrick Ness

I've only read the first book and I don't remember anything from it...except that Manchee dies. (Spoiler!) I'm not sure if that's a good sign so I've been putting the series on hold but I think it might be time to give it another go. What do you think?

8. 11 Birthdays by Wendy Mass

I read the first book by accident because I thought that was the book my friend recommended. It wasn't. I didn't like the first book at all so I don't think I'll be finishing this series any time soon. Unless I'm really bored.

9. Pretty Little Liars by Sara Shepard

This series is amazing! I was a bit thrown off by Wanted and the whole last book...NOT thing but it is still definitely a must-finish!

10. And Then Everything Unravelled by Jennifer Sturman

I made the mistake of reading the second book first so I know everything which is obviously why I would not want to read the first book. That and the fact that I didn't enjoy the second so much. However, I hear that the first is much better so I might give it a shot.

Here's my list - looking forward to reading your lists and suggestions. Mwah, Annie

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by the gals over at The Broke and the Bookish.

Top Ten Bookish People I Want to Meet

WARNING: Chances are this will probably a veeeery long list but I'll try to keep it as short as possible. If that's even possible...


1.  David Levithan

Do I even have to explain? Read one of his books and then get back to me.


2. Sarah Dessen

OK, I'm not even halfway through my first Sarah Dessen (The Truth About Forever) and I already want to meet her. Who wants to bet on whether or not I'll read her other books?


3. J.K. Rowlling

Well, being a serious Potterhead I think this goes without saying. Hopefully by meeting her, some of her writing talent will rub off.


4. Chris Colfer

Kurt is one of my favorite characters on Glee and meeting him would be a DREAM. And since he has written two books, he definitely belongs on this list.


5. Nicholas Sparks

 One of my secret wishes is to be able to experience a love such as those in all of Nicholas Sparks' novels. That has yet to happen but maybe in the meantime, I'll be able to meet him and persuade him to write a novel specially for me? It's an idea...


6. Stephenie Meyer

To be honest, I wasn't a big fan of Twilight but I would love to have a chat with Stephenie on whether she's Team Edward or Team Jacob (Team Jacob all the way!!!!).


7. Morgan Matson

Morgan crafted one of my favorite YA novels and I would love to meet her.


8. Jenny Han

I loved Shug which is the only Jenny I've ever read. She just sounds so nice and amazing and funny. And speaking of Jenny Han, I would also love to meet her BFF, Siobhan Vivian whose book, Not That Kind of Girl, I loved.


10. Sophie Kinsella

Have I ever told you how awesome Brits are? Here's an example. Never fails to amaze me with her amazingly ridiculous yet lovable-very lovable-novels.


11. Rick Riordan

I enjoyed Percy Jackson very much and I would like to meet him and give him my opinion on his books which (coincidentally?) all seem to have the same premise.


12. Suzanne Collins

Love The Hunger Games and I love her. Thanks for making post-apocalyptic dystopia (one of my favorite genres) popular!!!


13. Ann Brashares

Even though I was so upset at her for making that sad thing happen in the fifth book (if you've read, you'll know), I would still love to meet her. Her books are amazing and I will not stop reading them over and over until a new book from her comes out.


14. John Green

If you want to make me cry and laugh at the same time, all you need to do is hand me The Fault in Our Stars. One book is the only thing needed to make me do the most unlikely thing to do when reading books in the history of all unlikely things to do when reading books. And might I say, that that's a pretty good achievement? I still have yet to read his other books but he's so great that I can be sure that I will love them.


15. Pseudonymous Bosch

Just to find out who he is really. Not knowing bugs me.

So there's my uber long list. Until next time, ciao!

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by the gals over at The Broke and the Bookish.

Top Ten Books on my Fall TBR List

Hey guys!

I'm really excited to be participating in my first ever "Top Ten Tuesday" which is hosted by the gals at The Broke and the Bookish and I couldn't have asked for a better topic! I have so many to-read books that I just keep on adding and adding. Hopefully, I'll be able to finish all these. 

Without further ado, I present to you the top ten books on my fall TBR list.

1. 13 Reasons Why by Jay Asher

Even though I have never read a Jay Asher book, I just KNOW he's going to be my new favourite author. 13 Reasons Why sounds so good and I can't wait to read it!

2. The Future of Us by Jay Asher, Carolyn Mackler

Another Jay Asher! Again, it sounds amazing!

3. The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

I wasn't actually interested in the book until I found out that Emma Watson was going to be in the movie. (!!!!) I guess judging this book this way may not be the wisest move (um...maybe I should acutally find out what it's about?). It may suck and I may be extremely upset that I've wasted all my time but on the other hand, it may rule. You never know unless you try!

4. I've Got Your Number by Sophie Kinsella

One of my guilty pleasures is Sophie Kinsella and she is the only author for adults I will read again and again. This book is really popular and one of my friends who read this book LOVED it so this is definitely on my TBR.

5. Broadway Lights by Jen Calonita

I've read the rest of the books so I think it's only fair I read this one. And I hear there's a love triangle. Oooooh, can't wait!

6. Naomi and Ely's No-Kiss List by David Levithan, Rachel Cohn

David Levithan is one of my all-time favourite authors. I adore all his books and him and Rachel make the ultimate writing duo. This sounds so funny and cute, its sure to be a great read!

7. Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins

I've heard so many good things about this book and Stephanie sounds so funny. Um...excuse me? French guys? I'm sold!

8. The Last Little Blue Envelope by Maureen Johnson

The first book was great (if not totally believable) and I'm hoping the second one will be as good or possibly even greater than the first!

9. And Then Everything Unravelled by Jennifer Sturman

I made the HUGE mistake of reading the second book first so now I'm going to read the first book. It sounds like it was pretty good and hopefully, I'll enjoy this one more than I did the second.

10. The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith

Yes, the legendary tenth spot goes to Jennifer E. Smith! It sounds interesting and funny and judging by the cover (which is so cute...and fitting), I'm going to love this book!!!

The Ten Most Swoon-Worthy Guys (First Edition)

We all know that having hot guys to obsess over is the KEY to writing good chick-lit. Who cares about writing skills and plots and all that other useless stuff? If you have a hot guy, I'll read it AND love it!

 So here, I present to you my list of the ten most swoon-worthy guys (in no particular order)!

1. Connor from Haunting Violet by Alyxandra Harvey

I love how he'll do anything for Violet without even a moment's hesitation. The world needs more Connors! And that first kiss? So hot!!!

2. Will Darcy from Prom and Prejudice by Elizabeth Eulberg

I loved him from the start and I couldn't believe how Lizzie didn't fall for him earlier! Was she immune to his hotness? Seriously, I need an answer to help me comprehend the seriously bewildering.

 And judging by how amazing this Will was, I can only imagine how amazing and swoon-worthy the original Will is! Can't wait to read Pride and Prejudice!

3. Trevor from The Kid Table by Andrea Seigel

This is an unusual case. I mean, Trevor was so gross in soooo many ways (Greasy hair? Worn out clothes?) but there was just something about him...something mysterious that made both me and Ingrid fall obsessively in love. 

4. Roger from Amy and Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson

This one is a no-brainer. How can you NOT fall for Roger and his adorkably cuteness? It's unthinkable! Man, the things I would do to score a cross-country road trip with him!

5. Ezra Fitz from the Pretty Little Liars series by Sara Shepard

Tell me, IS there anything better than a clandestine relationship? Yeah, no. Not much except for an absolutely amazing male lead! Behold, Ezra Fitz! There's no way you'd not fall in love with him!

6. Gavin from The Season by Sarah MacLean

 Another iffy one. I didn't fall in love with Gavin immediately like I did with the other guys on this list but at the end of the book, I'd grown to admire him for his loyalty to his family (even if it ended up causing more trouble for him) and appreciate his blonde hair. For some reason, I always imagined him with dark brown hair. Hmmm...

7. Keith from 13 Little Blue Envelopes by Maureen Johnson

Another unusual one. When we first meet Keith, he's in a kilt. Worn the traditional way...Errrr...  That plus his red hair makes for an odd combination but I loved him anyway! I mean, COME ON! British guys? Irresistible.

8. Peeta from The Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins

Peeta, Peeta, Peeta. There are so many words that come to mind when I think of him. Cute, sweet, romantic... You get the idea. Peeta is the epitome of guys. Every girl wants someone like him  - someone who'd go to any lengths to protect the one them. Whose loyalty is never, ever in question. And do I even have to add that I'm Team Peeta all the way?

9. Gus from The Fault In Our Stars by John Green

The great thing about Gus is that he was able to not let his sickness (SPOILER ALERT!!!!) get the best of him and I loved him for that. It's so easy to focus on the bad things in life and get caught up in them when the good things should be the only thing that really matter.

10. Gilbert Blythe from Anne of Green Gables by L. M. Montogomery

Gilbert was the very first boy ever to make me swoon so naturally, he would get the legendary tenth spot. I love Gilbert!