tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80230533128376715782024-03-13T12:53:01.792-07:00Book StyleWhere Books & Fashion CollideAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.comBlogger172125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-76048577363288360082018-06-11T03:09:00.001-07:002018-06-11T03:09:09.017-07:00Broken Links, No More Polyvore, + The Future of Book Style<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Quick note to apologize that most of (all of?) my Book Styles are showing dead image links at the moment. Polyvore, the website I used to create them, sold to Ssense earlier this year. I'm going to get the images updated based off of my archives as soon as possible. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For the future I probably won't be creating new Book Styles until I can upgrade my home computer to something that will play nicer with Photoshop. I will definitely still be blogging about books when it strikes my fancy. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For those of you who don't follow me on Book Riot, I'll be cross-posting all of my older Book Riot posts here soon, too. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks all!</span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-22838115249989327592018-01-02T04:34:00.000-08:002018-01-02T04:46:53.279-08:002017: A Year In Books<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center; width: auto;">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2017 was not the greatest year. It was a trying year for my country. 'Nuff said. Then, between the stress of relocating across country again, and my mental health taking a nose dive into extra-ville, I think it's fair to say that my seven-year relationship's endurance was tested. I've come out of this trial-filled year with some important lessons about myself learned and with more determination to make 2018 kick ass than ever before, so every cloud does have a silver lining, I guess.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">One thing that didn't suck in 2017 was that I finally got my reading mojo back! I really want to take a moment here to thank <a href="https://multcolib.org/">Multnomah County Library</a>. Every city I've lived in has had a solid public library system, but it wasn't until this move to Portland this past Spring that I really embraced it. I think it's a combination of Multnomah County's great inventory, easy to find and use locations, and, probably most importantly, a stellar app that let's me place items on hold, extend holds and checkouts, and check due dates all from my phone. Also, to the awesome librarian who joined in my search for diverse children's picture books on world mythologies AND didn't judge me for getting distracted by <i><a href="https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781481469098">Not Quite Narwhal</a></i>, thank you from the bottom of my heart.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Another big contributor to my reading mojo returning, which still wouldn't have happened without my library access, was my <a href="http://brandisbookstyle.blogspot.com/search/label/nancy%20drew%20review">Nancy Drew Review project</a>. While I've been terrible about posting updates for the NDR, I have been steadily reading my way through the original 64 books. There hasn't been a lot of rhyme or reason to the order I'm reading in, it's largely determined by what I find on the shelf at the library and which titles appeal most to me. Right now I am halfway through the NDR with 32 out of 64 books read. I've learned that it takes me almost exactly 2 hours to read one of them, making them excellent filler/reading slump books. At the moment, I need to whittle my current TBR down a bit before I check any more Nancy Drews out, I might just back in in a few weeks.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Like I said, if 2017 was only good for one thing, it was good for me falling back in love with books and reading. I completed a total of 85 books in 2017. I tracked my reading throughout the year on Goodreads, because it's easiest on the go, and the barcode scan function helps me make sure I pick the correct edition. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Towards the end of the year I started populating a spreadsheet with expanded data so I could be a total #datanerd and have all my charts and graphs. If you want a complete list of everything I read this year, check out my Goodreads: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/51762187-brandi-bailey?shelf=2017-reads">2017 Reads Shelf</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My favorite read this year was <i>Wicked Like A Wildfire</i> by Lana Popović - it was magical, has me anticipating the next in the series, and just really inspired me. My least favorite read was <i>Zombies Vs. Unicorns</i> edited by Holly Black and Justine Larbalestier - I was disappointed, didn't end up enjoying most of the stories, and had to make myself finish it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In 2018, I'm aiming for 100 books read, but I'm over feeling pressured by that goal. It'll either happen or it won't. But I do want to continue reading women, authors of color, queer authors, and works in translation (which was only 3.5% of my reading in 2017). I'm also really committing to Book Riot's <a href="https://bookriot.com/2018/01/02/book-riots-2018-read-harder-challenge/">Read Harder Challenge</a> this year. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So how was your 2017 in books? Any goals for 2018? If you want to see the books I'm especially excited about in 2018, check out my <a href="http://brandisbookstyle.blogspot.com/2018/01/most-anticipated-books-of-2018.html">Most Anticipated Books of 2018</a> post. </span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-22030662187751889802018-01-01T05:46:00.002-08:002018-01-01T05:46:52.660-08:00Most Anticipated Books Of 2018<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center; width: auto;">
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's a new year full of exciting new releases. Here are the titles I'm most excited about in 2018:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><a href="https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781936787753">Neon in Daylight</a></i> by Hermione Hoby - January 9th (Catapult)</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"What do you get when a writer of extreme intelligence, insight, style and beauty chronicles the lives of self-absorbed hedonists--<i>The Great Gatsby</i>, <i>Bright Lights, Big City</i>, and now <i>Neon in Daylight</i>. Hermione Hoby paints a garish world that drew me in and held me spellbound. She is a marvel." --Ann Patchett</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This one had been all over the Most Anticipated lists, and despite not seeming to be in my lane, it keeps calling to me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><a href="https://www.indiebound.org/book/9780735221963">Everything Here Is Beautiful</a></i> by Mira T. Lee - January 16th (Pamela Dorman)</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sisters and mental illness are two categories I'm always drawn to and this novel has both at its heart. Might make my sister read this one with me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><a href="https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781635571301">Peach</a></i> by Emma Glass - January 23rd (Bloomsbury)</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"Something has happened to Peach. Staggering around the town streets in the aftermath of an assault, Peach feels a trickle of blood down her legs, a lingering smell of her anonymous attacker on her skin. It hurts to walk, but she manages to make her way to her home, where she stumbles into another oddly nightmarish reality: Her parents can't seem to comprehend that anything has happened to their daughter.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The next morning, Peach tries to return to the routines of her ordinary life, going to classes, spending time with her boyfriend, Green, trying to find comfort in the thought of her upcoming departure for college. And yet, as Peach struggles through the next few days, she is stalked by the memories of her unacknowledged trauma. Sleeping is hard when she is haunted by the glimpses of that stranger's gaping mouth. Working is hard when her assailant's rancid smell still fills her nostrils. Eating is impossible when her stomach is swollen tight as a drum. Though she tries to close her eyes to what has happened, Peach at last begins to understand the drastic, gruesome action she must take."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is going to be an emotional read. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><a href="https://www.indiebound.org/book/9780062655981">Brave</a></i> by Rose McGowan - January 30th (HarperOne)</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I feel like the Rose McGowan I had filed away from my high school years and the Rose McGowan crusading for feminism today are so different that I need to read this memoir to really understand who this woman is. If you're going to have heroines, you should know all about them, right? #metoo</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><a href="https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781484728499">The Belles</a></i> by Dhonielle Clayton - February 6th (Freeform)</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"Camellia Beauregard is a Belle. In the opulent world of Orleans, Belles are revered, for they control Beauty, and Beauty is a commodity coveted above all else. In Orleans, the people are born gray, they are born damned, and only with the help of a Belle and her talents can they transform and be made beautiful."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some books were just written for me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><a href="https://www.indiebound.org/book/9780062676979">The House of Impossible Beauties</a></i> by Joseph Cassara - February 6th (Ecco)</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"A gritty and gorgeous debut that follows a cast of gay and transgender club kids navigating the Harlem ball scene of the 1980s and '90s, inspired by the real House of Xtravaganza made famous by the seminal documentary <i>Paris Is Burning</i>"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The gritty glamour of New York in the '80s and the club kid scene is fascinating to me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><a href="https://www.indiebound.org/book/9780802127358">Freshwater</a></i> by Akwaeke Emezi - February 13th (Grove)</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"An extraordinary debut novel, <i>Freshwater</i> explores the surreal experience of having a fractured self. It centers around a young Nigerian woman, Ada, who develops separate selves within her as a result of being born "with one foot on the other side." Unsettling, heartwrenching, dark, and powerful, Freshwater is a sharp evocation of a rare way of experiencing the world, one that illuminates how we all construct our identities."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm so excited to read this one. I love unique points of view from narrators and with the narration shifting between Ada's personalities, this should be unreliable narrative at its finest. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><a href="https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781419729256">Bygone Badass Broads: 52 Forgotten Women Who Changed the World</a></i> by Mackenzi Lee, illustrated by Petra Eriksson - February 27th (Abrams)</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you want to get a taste for this one, go check out Lee's Twitter tag <a href="https://storify.com/themackenzilee">#bygonebadassbroads</a>. Y'all know I get excited when history, feminism, and beautiful illustrations all come together, right?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><a href="https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781250170972">Children of Blood and Bone</a></i> by Tomi Adeyemi - March 6th (Henry Holt)</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I really hope this book lives up to all of its hype. I mean, the movie is already in development and the first book in the series is still 3 months away! Sinking my teeth into 544 (!) pages of young adult fantasy debut that blends magic, West African influences, and current racial politics together is something I am truly looking forward to. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><a href="https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781250113429">The Merry Spinster: Tales of Everyday Horror</a></i> by Mallory Ortberg - March 13th (Holt)</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"Sinister and inviting, familiar and alien all at the same time, <i>The Merry Spinster</i> updates traditional children's stories and fairy tales with elements of psychological horror, emotional clarity, and a keen sense of feminist mischief."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love me a fractured, reworked, modernized, darkened, or whatever fairy tale retelling. If you never read any of Ortberg's <a href="http://sinister%20and%20inviting%2C%20familiar%20and%20alien%20all%20at%20the%20same%20time%2C%20the%20merry%20spinster%20updates%20traditional%20children%27s%20stories%20and%20fairy%20tales%20with%20elements%20of%20psychological%20horror%2C%20emotional%20clarity%2C%20and%20a%20keen%20sense%20of%20feminist%20mischief./">"Children's Stories Made Horrific" at The Toast</a>, you've got a couple of months to catch up. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><a href="https://www.indiebound.org/book/9780763691103">The Price Guide to the Occult</a> </i>by Leslye Walton - March 13th (Candlewick)</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The cover alone would've drawn me in, but after to reading Walton's debut - <i>The Strange and Beautiful Sorrows of Ava Lavender</i> - I will literally read anything she writes. I just know that this tale of witch curses and teenage angst is going to be perfection. Sadly, I do not thing Vincent Price plays any sort of role. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><a href="https://www.indiebound.org/book/9780316440776">Tyler Johnson Was Here</a></i> by Jay Coles - March 20th (Little, Brown)</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"<i>The Hate U Give</i> meets <i>All American Boys</i> in this striking and heartbreaking debut novel, commenting on current race relations in America."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Which reminds me that I need to get around to reading <i>The Hate U Give</i>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><a href="https://www.indiebound.org/book/9780553419054">Macbeth</a></i> by Jo Nesbø - April 10th (Hogarth)</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"Set in the 1970s in a run-down, rainy industrial town, Jo Nesbø's <i>Macbeth</i> centers around a police force struggling to shed an incessant drug problem. Duncan, chief of police, is idealistic and visionary, a dream to the townspeople but a nightmare for criminals. The drug trade is ruled by two drug lords, one of whom--a master of manipulation named Hecate--has connections with the highest in power, and plans to use them to get his way."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Nesbø, one of my favorite Scandinavian crime writers, has reworked my favorite work of Shakespeare. April can't get here soon enough. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781947793019"><i>Who Is Vera Kelly?</i></a> by Rosalie Knecht - June 12th (Tin House)</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"An exhilarating page turner and perceptive coming-of-age story, <i>Who Is Vera Kelly?</i> introduces an original, wry and whip-smart female spy for the twenty-first century."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yup. I'm here for that.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><a href="https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781510732841">Autism in Heels: The Untold Story of a Female Life on the Spectrum</a></i> by Jennifer O'Toole - July 3rd (Skyhorse)</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"Beyond being a memoir, <i>Autism in Heels </i>is a love letter to all women. It's a conversation starter. A game changer. And a firsthand account of what it is to walk in Jennifer's shoes (especially those iconic red stilettos)."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This one is pretty close to home for me. I'm not sure if I'm more excited or scared to read it, honestly. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><a href="https://www.indiebound.org/book/9780062436863">Fierce Like a Firestorm</a></i> by Lana Popović - August 21st (Katherine Tegen)</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Popović's debut <i>Wicked Like A Wildfire</i> might be my favorite read of 2017. As much as I love discovering a great new YA series, I am super impatient when it comes to waiting on sequels. Come on, August, I need my Montenegrin witchy fix. </span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-18491831552276883682017-12-20T03:29:00.002-08:002017-12-20T05:21:18.416-08:00Book Style: Jaya and Rasa<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: auto;">
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<a href="https://www.polyvore.com/jaya_rasa/set?.embedder=2180648&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=232537803" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img alt="Jaya And Rasa" border="0" height="600" src="https://img1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=5WVrIi8YuCZtekAdwDrhEQ&id=vsQ5-XHl5xGr3uawiWqlIQ&size=c600x600" title="Jaya And Rasa" width="600" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm kind of obsessed with this book. <a href="https://www.cincopuntos.com/products_detail.sstg?id=288"><i>Jaya and Rasa</i></a> is the second book from author Sonia Patel. I'd seen her debut, <i><a href="https://www.cincopuntos.com/products_detail.sstg?id=265">Rani Patel in Full Effect</a></i>, several times and was always drawn towards the cover, but I don't have a huge interest in hip hop culture, so I never picked it up. When I crossed paths with<i> Jaya and Rasa </i>and saw the Nirvana links, I knew I had to read this it. And am I glad I did! Here's my review from <a href="https://bookriot.com/2017/12/06/best-queer-books-of-2017/">Book Riot's Best Queer Books of 2017</a>: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I rarely, oh so very rarely, appreciate non-fantastical YA. I fell head over heels for Sonia Patel’s newest,<i> Jaya and Rasa</i>, from the moment I spotted its stunning cover in the library. I appreciate so much getting to know these two wounded characters from pre-adolescence. Jaya is a transgender teenage boy, something his traditionally-minded Gujarati family would never accept. Despite not being able open up at home, he manages to find his own identity thanks to Nirvana, guitars, charity work, and a best friend who also doesn’t fit in well at his snooty prep school. Rasa has been forced to grow up too fast thanks to being forced to become provider to her younger siblings. When she thinks things might be looking up, despite CPS separating her from her younger brother and sisters, she finds herself trapped in the life of a high-end prostitute.<i> Jaya and Rasa</i> is less <i>Romeo and Juliet</i> in Honolulu, as it’s been billed, and more of a painfully honest look at what growing up “other” is like. Nothing is sugar-coated, the reality is bleak and honest, but Patel gives us just a bright enough glimmer of hope to keep reading, to keep going.</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For this Book Style, I envisioned an evolved and more relaxed Rasa. A Rasa who is finally healing and not feeling the need to be overly sexualized 24/7. A Rasa who loves, supports, and shares passions with her rock star boyfriend. A Nirvana tee was a must, of course. I paired the t-shirt with a pair of "Love Story" flares and "Oahu" platform slides. So, basically, I made this into my standard high school uniform. Class of 2002, baby! Woo! Anyways, I digress. I also gave Rasa the option of having a swimsuit handy since she loves to surf and free dive. I thought this "Teen Spirit" one piece was kind of perfect. It also makes me want sorbet. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For the accessories I chose a neon pink "Sweety Charity" bag as a nod to Jaya's charity work and a "Munro Blossom Muse" scarf because I'm pretty sure Jaya wouldn't argue with me calling Rasa a Blossom Muse. Around the neck is a "Pimp Aigrette" stunner of a necklace, around the wrist is an "LGBT Pride Awareness" bracelet, and on the ring finger (or whichever finger) is a guitar wrap ring. For the earrings I decided on mixing two singles together: One ear can rock the "White Widow Leaf" ear jacket, which I chose because I prefer Rasa being a white widow instead of the black widow her mother conditioned her to be, and the other ear can rock a hoop with a chunk of molten rock, apropos of Hawaii, of course. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For the final touches I went with cosmetics. Elizabeth and James' "Nirvana White" perfume is a floral, slightly exotic scent that is perfect for Rasa. She can coat her nails in a holographic and glittery "Crush on Lava" nail lacquer and coat her lips with "Shame" lipstick (to remind herself that she should never feel ashamed). Top off the look with a retro-tastic pair of "Classic 11 Surf" shades and Rasa's look is complete. </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-79354768914765160262017-12-19T06:20:00.001-08:002017-12-20T03:29:28.951-08:00Book Style: Dune<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: auto;">
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<a href="https://www.polyvore.com/dune/set?.embedder=2180648&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=232457723" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img alt="Dune" border="0" height="600" src="https://img2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=lhZejc4ngeOtfCIfZNwlQ&id=LvYfegDk5xGKA-MDACicMg&size=c600x600" title="Dune" width="600" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I haven't done a Book Style in forever and a day and my crazy ass decides to start back up with an all brown one. I just really enjoy the Penguin Galaxy Collection and it's the first <i>Dune</i> cover I actually liked! So here's a <i><a href="http://www.powells.com/book/dune-9780143111580/62-0">Dune</a> </i>Book Style for y'all. The general aesthetic is less related to the book and more of a modern desert traveler vibe. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Let's start with the outfit proper: A<i> Dune</i> shirt designed by Daretown Kindling is a great base layer under a "Melange" open back sweater. I paired them with a pair of sturdy "Paul" chino trousers in a dreamy chocolate brown. Cinch the waist with a tiger-head belt and throw a pair of "Desert" chukka boots on your feet. On your head, a panama style hat will keep all of the elements out of your eyes. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For the accessories I chose a tooth ring, a Muad'Dib (aka a mouse) necklace, centipede full-finger ring, and a pair of worm earrings. I added a Dune book cover pin and a Kynes' Imperial Teardrop Mark Of Rank pin (I like the idea of doing several of these). Add a pair of "Jessica" sunglasses and a couple of coats of this metallic "Sand" nail lacquer and you'll be all set to save the empire, or grab coffee with friends. </span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-86978572443448690362017-12-18T01:12:00.004-08:002017-12-18T01:12:56.991-08:00Bookmarks Survey<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm doing research for an article and would really appreciate it if you could answer this brief two-question survey. </span><br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" height="500" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" src="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfSEtHWinVHpb_LGtPTrcgZDJqibu-TsNZkC48fgD9aWir2Kg/viewform?embedded=true#responses" width="760">Loading...</iframe>
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Thanks!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-10392256149673930392017-12-14T06:04:00.003-08:002017-12-14T06:04:41.073-08:00Link Love: 12.14.17<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://www.booksaremagic.net/"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M56rjl2vxmI/WjJdPl7HYqI/AAAAAAAAOkw/vIBjg0TI4ls2Pae2EQAGTYJErvxM932FwCLcBGAs/s640/books%2Bare%2Bmagic%2Bmural.jpg" title="" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Good googly mooglies! It has been forever since I posted a Link Love. I mean, it's kind of been forever since I posted anything, but, <span style="font-size: 16px;">¯\_(ツ)_/¯. Let's not dwell on the past, shall we? Here's a round up of some of the best bookish things I've compiled for you over the past couple of months. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 16px;"><b>READ:</b></span></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am so pleased with the diversity on my local library's <a href="http://bestof.multcolib.org/2017/">Best Books of 2017</a> list! Way to be amazing Multnomah County!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://abc7.com/society/4-year-old-reads-100-books-in-1-day-parents-stream-on-facebook/2773376/">Caleb Green is my new hero</a>. This adorable 4-year-old read 100 books (!) in one day. Because he wanted to!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Enjoy this <a href="http://botnik.org/content/harry-potter.html">Harry Potter chapter written by a predictive text bot</a>. I need a "Hermione Has Forgotten How To Dance" shirt now. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Language is political: Merriam-Webster's Word of the Year is <a href="https://www.merriam-webster.com/words-at-play/word-of-the-year-2017-feminism">'feminism'</a>, Global Language Monitor's Word of the Year is <a href="https://www.languagemonitor.com/global-english/truth-is-top-word-of-the-year-2017/">'truth'</a>, and Dictionary.com's Word of the Year is <a href="http://www.dictionary.com/e/word-of-the-year-2017/">'complicit'</a>. (Still waiting to see what word/s the Oxford English Dictionary and the American Dialect Society announce.)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Judge books by their covers: <a href="https://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2017/12/the-30-best-book-covers-of-2017.html">Paste's 30 Best Book Covers of 2017</a>. What would you add to this list?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The <a href="http://www.nme.com/news/film/the-internet-is-having-fun-with-ready-player-one-trailer-2170257">first poster for the upcoming <i>Ready Player One</i> movie</a> was released and I suspect Photoshop was used. Poorly. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Redcurrant and blackcurrant jelly may have eluded poor Meg Brooks née March in <i>Little Women</i>, but if you follow <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/books/little-library-cafe/2017/dec/08/novel-recipes-currant-jelly-from-little-women-by-louisa-may-alcott">this recipe</a> you can master it! It sounds delicious and I am not on the hunt for currants. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://the-digital-reader.com/2017/12/06/__trashed-7/">Cover design forecast for 2018</a>. I have zero complaints about any of these trends. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Okay, I can follow the logic on banning the pop-up version of A Charlie Brown Christmas (you could hide weapons in it), but I fail to see how <i>Freakanomics </i>could incite a riot where <i>Mein Kampf </i>is okay. If you want to see the entire list of what books are banned in the Texas prison system, you can <a href="https://www.dallasnews.com/news/crime/2017/11/27/texas-prisons-ban-freakonomics-big-book-angels-adolf-hitlers-mein-kampf">here</a>. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's so hard not buy books for everyone because, well, BOOKS! But this article makes a good point about <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/books/booksblog/2017/dec/14/this-christmas-dont-give-books-to-non-readers">not buying books for non-readers this holiday</a>. I'd be mad if someone bought me golf clubs just because they like to golf, because I do not like to golf. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Speaking of prisoners and books, an <a href="http://www.eastbaytimes.com/2017/12/13/firefighter-from-oakland-collects-books-for-inmate-fire-crews/">Oakland firefighter is collecting books for inmate fire crews</a> through December. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm not sure I agree 100% with Eco's logic, but I love that my "<a href="https://www.mnn.com/lifestyle/arts-culture/blogs/too-many-unread-books-antilibrary-good-thing">antilibrary</a>" is a good thing, especially since I have a small addiction to my library hold function.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">NPR's <a href="https://apps.npr.org/best-books-2017/">2017 Book Concierge</a> is here. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"The skin along her arms and shoulders are different shades of tan like water stains in a bathtub." is the line that earned Christopher Bollen<a href="https://literaryreview.co.uk/bad-sex-in-fiction-award"> this year's "Bad Sex in Fiction" award.</a> </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Carrie Fisher has been <a href="https://www.themarysue.com/carrie-fisher-princess-diarist-grammy/">nominated for a posthumous Grammy</a> for the audiobook of <i>The Princess Diarist</i>. Miss her. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.bbc.com/culture/story/20171114-why-are-childrens-authors-eccentric">Why ARE children's authors so eccentric</a>?</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Obvious State's <a href="https://obviousstate.com/collections/gifts/products/2018-biblio-calendar">2018 Bibliophilia Mini Calendar</a> is stunning! (Of course it is, everything they make is.)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'd be okay if my house smelled like Frostbeard Studios' <a href="https://www.frostbeardstudio.com/products/the-shire-8-oz-candle">The Shire candle</a> all the time. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Who needs the Sorting Hat when you can have your very own <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/559345908/the-sorting-candle-magic-sorting-candle?ref=holiday-gift-guide">Sorting Candle</a>!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://theuncommongreen.com/collections/literature">Literary Rocks Glasses</a> for the book AND booze loving person in your life. FYI, I am that person, and I prefer the <a href="https://theuncommongreen.com/collections/literature/products/sherlock-holmes-conan-doyle-rocks">Sherlock Holmes one</a>. Thank you in advance. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/560456296/book-lovers-jewelry-book-lovers-necklace?ref=holiday-gift-guide">coolest bookish necklace</a> I've seen in ages!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I LOL'd at this <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/557401782/book-nerd-bookmarks-are-for-quitters?ref=holiday-gift-guide">Bookmarks Are For Quitters</a> t-shirt. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My husband just made me a tealight holder, so I am all about these <a href="https://www.uncommongoods.com/product/mini-library-scented-tea-lights-set-of-10">Mini Library Scented Tea Lights</a>!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These <a href="https://www.espionagecosmetics.com/collections/nerd-manicures/products/mrs-darcy">Mrs. Darcy nail wraps</a> are gorgeous. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Juniper Books' <a href="https://juniperbooks.com/store/we-write-we-rise/">We Write, We Rise collection</a> of female American writers is everything my feminist, lit-loving heart craves. </span></li>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-69837943053896442372017-11-23T08:00:00.000-08:002017-11-23T08:00:00.166-08:00Scratch And Sniff Books For Grown-Ups<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This post originally appeared on </span><a href="http://bookriot.com/2014/11/10/scratch-sniff-books-grown-ups/" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Book Riot</a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> in 2014.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Every November I find myself getting incredibly nostalgic for the one Thanksgiving book I remember reading as a child: </span><em style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Cranberry-Thanksgiving-Cranberryport-Wende-Devlin/dp/1930900635/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1483781872&sr=1-1&keywords=cranberry+thanksgiving">Cranberry Thanksgiving</a></em><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> by Wende and Harry Devlín. The really great thing about this particular picture book wasn't the scruffy, gruff captain or the prim, uptight grandmother- it was the scratch-and-sniff aspect. In retrospect, I'm fairly certain our copy was a second-hand edition that probably mostly smelled like paper, ink, and mild mildew by the time it came our way, but I loved the interactive quality of the scratch-and-sniff. Scratch-and-sniff is an underutilized gimmick when it comes to books, but they do still exist, though mostly for children. But they're not all intended for the kiddos. I've rounded up some of the best PG-13 scratch-and-sniff titles for your olfactory pleasure.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">DK has put out a their fair share of scratch-and-sniff board books over the years, generally aimed at the still-in-diapers set. But nine-year-old boys, and far more overgrown children will surely appreciate the grosser-than-a-bogey-flavoured-bean </span><em style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Truly-Tasteless-Scratch-Sniff-Book/dp/0789465140">The Truly Tasteless Scratch & Sniff Book</a>. </strong></em><span style="background-color: white;">This book is disgusting, fascinating, and nauseating. Scents include feces, vomit, halitosis, and gas and are all accompanied by the science behind their foulness. Proceed with caution with this one.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><em style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Backstage-Beth-Trina-Scratch-Sniff/dp/0810970511">Backstage with Beth and Trina: A Scratch-and-Sniff Adventure</a> </strong></em><span style="background-color: white;">by Julie Blattberg</span><em style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;">.</em><span style="background-color: white;"> Because who doesn't want a scratch-and-sniff representation of their bad decisions? These scents aren't all pretty; strawberry lipgloss and leather compete with stale beer, smoke, and vomit. No guarantees you won't experience a major, and possibly traumatic, flashback from this one.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/First-Book-Smell-Colours-recognize/dp/2733818236">My First Book of Smells and Colours: Garden</a> </em></strong><span style="background-color: white;">by Orianne Lallemand might be intended for kids, but with clean, poppy design and authentic herb and veggie aromas, wouldn't it make a lovely gift for the home gardener in your life? The smells include rose, lilac, fir tree, onion, strawberry, lavendar, and mint. Other titles in this series are </span><em style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/First-Book-Smells-Colours-recognize/dp/2733818228/ref=pd_bxgy_14_img_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=4EJD4ETRFAQ4RHB06XN1">Fruit</a></em><span style="background-color: white;"> (strawberry, orange, cherry, apple, peach, banana, and coconut), and </span><em style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/First-Book-Smells-Colours-recognize/dp/2733818244/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1483782153&sr=1-1&keywords=my+first+book+of+smells+kitchen">Kitchen</a></em><span style="background-color: white;"> by Zade Zade (chocolate, banana, onion, vanilla, grapefruit, mint, mango).</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61YDTK23PBL._SX382_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61YDTK23PBL._SX382_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="153" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">The</span><strong style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;"> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Victorian-Vapours-Smelly-Old-History/dp/0199100950/ref=pd_sim_14_5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=JP1N1D65H6JZBTXHHGDF">Smelly Old</a></em><em style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Victorian-Vapours-Smelly-Old-History/dp/0199100950/ref=pd_sim_14_5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=JP1N1D65H6JZBTXHHGDF"> History</a> </em></strong><span style="background-color: white;">series by Mary Dobson takes an interesting approach to engaging the reader with history. The series includes </span><em style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;">Victorian Vapours</em><span style="background-color: white;">, </span><em style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;">Reeking Royals</em><span style="background-color: white;">, </span><em style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;">Medieval Muck</em><span style="background-color: white;">, </span><em style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;">Wartime Whiffs</em><span style="background-color: white;">, </span><em style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;">Greek Grime, Mouldy Mummies, Tudor Oudors, Roman Aromas,</em><span style="background-color: white;"> and </span><em style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;">Vile Vikings</em><span style="background-color: white;">, among others. These books are heavier on text and actually history than on scratch-and-sniff panels, but the combo of history and grotesque aromas is so appealing in its weirdness.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><em style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Essential-Scratch-Sniff-Becoming-Expert/dp/0544005031">The Essential Scratch and Sniff Guide to Becoming a Wine Expert: Take a Whiff of That</a> </strong></em><span style="background-color: white;">by Richard Betts is one of the most practical uses of scratch-and-sniff technology I've ever seen. This is just brilliant. You can learn genuinely useful skills from this book! It uses the scents to walk your nose through the basic noses: the woods, the fruits, and the earths allowing you to impress people right out of their pants at your next party.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Instant-Touch-Tropical-Scratch-Sniff/dp/0957490992">Instant Touch: A Tropical Scratch and Sniff</a> </em></strong><span style="background-color: white;">by Belly Kids features some stunning upcoming illustrators' interpretations of your basic fruits (grape, cherry, watermelon, etc.) along with the accompanying aroma. This is as much a piece of sweetly-scented art as it is a children's book. Whether coffee table or nursery bound, it's a multi-sensory experience worth having.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Finally, </span><strong style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Harley-Quinn-Annual-Amanda-Conner/dp/B00NUNNUL0">Harley Quinn Annual #1</a></em></strong><span style="background-color: white;">. It's been dubbed rub-and-smell instead of scratch-and-sniff for legal reasons, but I think it comes off as uber creepy, so I'm henceforth refusing to ever use the term rub-and-smell again. This reboot of Punkin's psychotic right-hand gal is centered around Harley attempting to jailbreak Poison Ivy out of Arkham when she is taken down by a powerful hallucinogen. An Ivy/Harley comic heavy on the nonsense and with scented, fourth-wall-breaking asides from the anti-heroine.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-47122721495945841042017-05-18T13:55:00.003-07:002017-05-18T14:03:45.966-07:00Nancy Drew Review: The Message In The Hollow Oak<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pwUsXsiMIHo/WQwfAOU2i1I/AAAAAAAALyY/Bi87FxV1D3wRSqMcoP8kfi720iztoG9vACPcB/s1600/Nancy%2BDrew%2BReview%2BBanner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pwUsXsiMIHo/WQwfAOU2i1I/AAAAAAAALyY/Bi87FxV1D3wRSqMcoP8kfi720iztoG9vACPcB/s640/Nancy%2BDrew%2BReview%2BBanner.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's time for another installment of the Nancy Drew Review project. <i>The Message in the Hollow Oak</i> was my third reread of the 64 original titles. For those of you intrigued by Carolyn Keene not being real, since I keep bringing it up, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Nancy_Drew_books#Grosset_.26_Dunlap">here's a nice chart</a> that goes over the ghostwriting process for these 64 books. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qjDlpND4ezc" width="560"></iframe></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Side note: Anybody have any recommendations for me for easy-to-use video editing apps or software? Preferably free. Preferably. </span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-79134709684662664982017-05-11T11:37:00.003-07:002017-05-11T11:37:30.897-07:00Nancy Drew Review: The Spider Sapphire Mystery<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Okay, I'm back with another video in my Nancy Drew Review project. Apologies for the handheld shakiness, I wanted to sit in my comfy chair and still have good light. I'm going to be a pro at these videos by the time I finish all 64 books!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-41158793410630028982017-05-05T00:33:00.000-07:002017-05-10T13:18:45.397-07:00Nancy Drew Review: The Bungalow Mystery<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Introducing the Nancy Drew Review Project. For the next few months - assuming it takes that long - I'll be rereading my way through all of the classic Nancy Drew stories.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've decided to do a short(ish) video review following each one where I go ever my thoughts on the books, characters, and series as a whole. I'm a terrible rambler, so I'll apologize in advance for that. Below is my first video for the project.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Since I won't be creating a book style for each of these, you should really check out my Book Style for <a href="http://brandisbookstyle.blogspot.com/2013/10/book-style-confessions-of-teen-sleuth.html"><i>Confessions of a Teen Sleuth</i></a> by Chelsea Cain.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-56335989264735712762017-01-25T14:34:00.005-08:002017-01-25T17:19:28.901-08:00Book Style: 1984<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: auto;">
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This post originally appeared on <a href="http://bookriot.com/2015/07/23/book-style-1984-george-orwell/">Book Riot</a> in 2015.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When I wrote this post 1.5 years ago, I was fresh off of laughing at the absurdity of Donald Trump throwing his hat into the election ring. Now we have President Trump's staff offering <strike>blatant lies</strike> "alternative facts"during press conferences. We have scientists being silenced. We have women's reproductive rights being stripped away. This might not be as fictional of a work as it used to be, sadly.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/1984/set?.embedder=2180648&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=167935245" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img alt="1984" border="0" src="http://img1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=ldcxM3F9BB26Q83TsFKhWw&id=sEn8pekk5RGZp7HTB_2P-A&size=c600x600" height="600" title="1984" width="600" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/1984-Signet-Classics-George-Orwell/dp/0451524934/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1485382935&sr=8-1&keywords=1984"><i>1984</i></a>, or <i>Nineteen Eighty-Four</i> depending on which edition you have, is one of those novels I would’ve read even if it wasn’t George Orwell’s most famous, or assigned reading in the majority of U.S. high schools (an irony that is not lost on me). 1984 was the year I was born and I can’t not read a book that is named after the year I graced this fair planet with my glorious presence! All not-so-humble bragging aside, I really enjoy good dystopic fiction and satire and Orwell is the king of that genre. Without <i>1984</i> and its predecessor, Huxley’s <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Brave-New-World-Aldous-Huxley/dp/0060850523/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1485383139&sr=1-1&keywords=brave+new+world">Brave New World</a></i>, there would be no <i>Hunger Games</i>, <i>The Giver</i>, <i>Divergent</i>, <i>Maze Runner</i>, or their ilk. <i>1984</i> brought the concepts and vocabulary of Newspeak, Big Brother, and Thought Police into the public consciousness. If you have ever uttered the phrase “Big Brother is watching you” and haven’t read this novel, shame on you. Fix that nonsense now.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Doing a Book Style for <i>The</i> dystopian novel wasn’t easy. None of these personality-filled wardrobe items would be acceptable for any of Oceania’s residents, but dammit I would try! I’m in the mood for casual weekend wear, so that’s what I focused on here. If you’re reading a novel as cynical and foreboding as <i>1984</i>, you need to be relaxed and comfy. We have “1984” boyfriend jeans whose tie to the novel should be fairly obvious and a “Gin” sweatshirt tee for Winston’s “Victory” branded gin. A pair of “Julia” sandals, for Winston’s love interest, and a crisp white belt polish off the base outfit. For the accessories I included a “1984” tote bag, some “Propaganda” sunglasses, a “Big Brother Is Watching You” phone case, and two nail lacquers in “Caught Your Eye” (for the ever-watchfulness of the Thought Police) and “Private Weekend” (for Winston and Julia’s failed attempts to keep their affair private). Finishing it all off is the jewelry: an “Orwell” necklace, a “Big Brother Is Watching You” bracelet, an “Obey” cipher ring, and a pair of coral earrings for the shattered coral paperweight *cough* blatant symbolism *cough*.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now stay aware, alert, and behaved. And remember, WAR IS PEACE, FREEDOM IS SLAVERY, and IGNORANCE IS STRENGTH!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-13344584294834790232017-01-21T08:00:00.000-08:002017-01-21T08:00:34.302-08:00Book Style: Dracula<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: auto;">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This post originally appeared on <a href="http://bookriot.com/2014/10/21/book-style-dracula-bram-stoker/">Book Riot</a> in 2014.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/dracula/set?.embedder=2180648&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=136402231" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img alt="Dracula" border="0" src="http://img1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=YfAcyHg1igZ168A2cwDQ&id=ZtdREYRK5BGRIStq2__Y_w&size=c600x600" height="600" title="Dracula" width="600" /></span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Dracula-Penguin-Classics-November-Paperback/dp/B014T9YSD2/ref=sr_1_6?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1483781113&sr=1-6&keywords=dracula+penguin">Dracula</a></i> is THE classic monster novel. The salacious sexuality of the story and of the titular character have been drawing readers, and later moviegoers, by the hundreds for over a century now. While classically depicted in black and white with captivating touches of blood red, this edition from Penguin let me explore a more flamboyant costume for a Lady Dracula (with Winona’s Mina firmly in mind).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There’s a lot going on here, so let’s start with base layers. Sex appeal and vampires go hand-in-hand, so sumptuous lingerie was a must and this “Bat Your Lashes” bra and panty set is kind of perfect. Yellow tights for a kick of color and because, vampire or no, a lady does not expose bare legs to the public. Next up, a silky blouse with a necktie that evokes a gentleman’s cravat, and a flouncy bustled skirt – I know a proper Victorian lady would not be sporting anything above-the-knee, but when scaling buildings to assault woo your love, you need mobility. Some spiky “London” brogues and a lush, fur-collared “Mina” coat complete the main ensemble.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Let’s run through all of the blood-thirsty accessories, too: A <i>Dracula</i> necklace, stake earrings, fang knuckleduster ring, crimson “Blooming Love” engagement ring, “Paranormal” UV reactive nail lacquer, and a batty clutch polish off our Lady Dracula.</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-89545947179291811792017-01-15T08:00:00.000-08:002017-01-15T08:00:17.746-08:00Book Style: Heart Of Darkness<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: auto;">
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This post originally appeared on <a href="http://bookriot.com/2014/10/10/book-style-heart-darkness-joseph-conrad/">Book Riot</a> in 2014.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/heart_darkness/set?.embedder=2180648&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=136396675" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img alt="Heart Of Darkness" border="0" src="http://img2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=eQasnvg7U7kXZRVg9kcEaw&id=THjE5XlK5BGcKyU37EzHKw&size=c600x600" height="600" title="Heart Of Darkness" width="600" /></span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Joseph Conrad’s <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Heart-Darkness-Joseph-Conrad/dp/1935639668/ref=sr_1_7?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1483779900&sr=1-7&keywords=the+heart+of+darkness+by+joseph+conrad">Heart of Darkness</a></i> has proven to be perpetually controversial, first for its chastisement of colonialism and native subjugation and exploitation, and later for stereotyping race. Personally, while horribly racist in his description and treatment of native characters, I applaud Conrad for trying to bring attention to a horrible system, even if it focused a bit too much on the plight of the white protagonists/antagonists. A book like this will never be written again, for a variety of reasons, and, thanks in part to <i>Apocalypse Now</i>’s enduring popularity, it will continue to be read for years to come.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I wasn’t channeling a particular character this time around. This outfit is mostly inspired by this epically haunting cover design and the West African setting of the novel. The key elements of this outfit are an ethically sourced: an “Africa” print jacket and an easy, travel-friendly jumpsuit. Some “Congo” sandals and “Arrow” purse add the necessary (in my book anyway) gleam, while a silky scarf adds some warmth (or additional protection from mosquitoes). In the jewelry category, we have a pair of ivory skull studs, Africa earrings, an ivory bangle, a rifle necklace, and a “Slave Chain” ring. A pop of “African Violet” nail lacquer finishes up this look.</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-8070071958559148172017-01-14T08:00:00.000-08:002017-01-14T08:00:16.414-08:00Book Style: One Kick<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: auto;">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This post originally appeared on <a href="http://bookriot.com/2014/09/03/book-style-one-kick-chelsea-cain/">Book Riot</a> in 2014.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/one_kick/set?.embedder=2180648&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=132719415" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img alt="One Kick" border="0" src="http://img2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=dqHDB2Dd08B9Tho9YU8Sw&id=ODam4pQp5BGnLmCmmu7EJQ&size=c600x600" height="600" title="One Kick" width="600" /></span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I fell in love with Chelsea Cain’s work back when I discovered her Nancy Drew parody, <a href="http://brandisbookstyle.blogspot.com/2013/10/book-style-confessions-of-teen-sleuth.html"><i>Confessions of a Teen Sleuth</i></a>, which is now sadly out of print. While I never became as impassioned about her Heartsick series as some of her fans, I’m incredibly thrilled with the launch of her newest novel and series.<i> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/One-Kick-Lannigan-Novel/dp/1476749876/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1483779397&sr=1-1&keywords=one+kick">One Kick</a></i> is the first of the Kick Lannigan series and if you’re a fan of thrillers you better get off your butt, run out to your local bookstore, and bring one home now. To paraphrase <i>The New York Times</i> review, Kick is comparable to Lisbeth Salander (you know, of <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Dragon-Tattoo-Millennium/dp/0307949486/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1483779659&sr=1-1&keywords=the+girl+with+the+dragon+tattoo">The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo</a></i> fame), but way more relatable. She’s a survivor of kidnapping and child pornography. Almost a decade later, Kick is presented with an unprecedented opportunity to help rescue other children from the same circumstances.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I gave my best effort to keep this outfit fairly true to Kick’s in-novel attire (even when faced with an incredibly sepia-colored cover). She’s a tomboy who lives in denim and hoodies when she’s not training in the dojo. Her tragic tale made her into a celebrity, something her mother continues to exploit, and Kick often sports a cap and glasses to avoid the curious stares of her neighbors. The puppy dog socks aren’t something Kick would let show to many, but they accurately reflect her undying affection for her dog, Monster. The handcuff bracelet is symbolic of her imprisonment as well as her hobby of lock-picking. The tennis ball watch is a bit kitsch but it’s also a nod to Monster and the events that get the plot rolling. The final touch is the Scrabble tile necklace. I’m not going to tell you how that ties in! I don’t want to spoil the suspense.</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-17911021919462306622017-01-11T19:25:00.000-08:002017-01-11T19:45:59.604-08:00Book Riot: Sirens of Titan<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: auto;">
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/sirens_titan/set?.embedder=2180648&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=170274283" target="_blank"><img alt="Sirens of Titan" border="0" src="http://img2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=LFu3B42jkjhI0euyLVs2Og&id=SlLdXYMx5RGc59GG6ODk1w&size=c600x600" height="600" title="Sirens of Titan" width="600" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wow. I made this one ages ago and I completely forgot to share it with y'all. <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Sirens-Titan-Novel-Kurt-Vonnegut/dp/0385333498">The Sirens of Titan</a></i> by Kurt Vonnegut is the subject of today's Book Style. Vonnegut's speculative fiction novel explores the theme of free will with interplanetary conflict and exploration as a backdrop. I wanted this Book Style to be futuristic, but in a vaguely retro way. I think I achieved that.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For the main outfit we'll start with a pair of purple "Rocket" lace panties. Next we have a pair of "Winston" pants and a celestial "Stonehenge" tee. Toss a lemon-hued leather jacket on (those Martian nights get chilly), step into a shimmery pair of "Chrono" boots, and grab your "Beatrice" bag before we move onto jewelry. I added a "Siren" ring, a dog necklace (I personally decided that Kazak the Space Hound is very mastiff like because I prefer mastiffs to dobermans), a pair of "Double Titan" earrings, an "Odette Space" ring, and a sun cuff. A multi-purpose cosmetic stick epitomizes future efficiency and this magenta illuminating stick in "Quantum" is so yummy on all skin tones. Finally, lacquer those nails with vibrant "Code Purple" polish and you're all set for tackling anything the Tralfamadorians throw your way. </span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-85453977037898134572017-01-08T08:00:00.000-08:002017-01-08T08:00:18.442-08:00Book Style: Dorothy Must Die<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: auto;">
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The post originally appeared on <a href="http://bookriot.com/2014/09/12/book-style-dorothy-must-die/">Book Riot</a> in 2014.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/dorothy_must_die/set?.embedder=2180648&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=133316271" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img alt="Dorothy Must Die" border="0" src="http://img1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=CTMtatRSVpeg9TsQ0GOuA&id=1MpMI2Qu5BGjqdx_ZFZllw&size=c600x600" height="600" title="Dorothy Must Die" width="600" /></span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I adore a great reimagining of a beloved story. <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Wicked-Life-Times-Witch-Years/dp/0061350966/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1483779185&sr=1-1&keywords=wicked">Wicked</a> </i>was the first Oz rewrite, but it wasn’t the last. (We’ll just leave the “best” debate out of this discussion, shall we?) Danielle Paige’s new series kicks off with <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Dorothy-Must-Die-Danielle-Paige/dp/0062280686/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1483779056&sr=1-1&keywords=dorothy+must+die">Dorothy Must Die</a></i> and transports us back to Oz with Amy Gumm, or “Salvation Amy” to her cruel classmates. The Oz Amy’s twister transports her and her trailer to is vastly different from the Oz Baum introduced us to in his classic tales. This Oz is being slowly destroyed as Dorothy, who managed to find her way back after Kansas wasn’t as glamorous as she desired, and Glinda, are mining too deep and too often for magic. Amy soon finds herself recruited by the Bad side to assassinate the horrid Dorothy and stop this madness. But is bad actually good or not? And what has happened to Ozma? You must read this one if you have a soft spot for Oz. Or just love a good twist on a classic tale. I would apologize for the cliffhanger, but I’m suffering right along with you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While Amy wears many different guises, and sometimes faces, in the book, I went with her soul here and chose a laidback outfit a midwest teen might actually choose. Gingham was a must, although stealing Dorothy’s signature blue felt wrong. Some well worn jeans would be standard in Amy’s thrift shop wardrobe and adding the flash-style “Mom” patch seemed appropriate given the underlying message of family at the series heart. The shimmer-finish Converse are, of course, a nod to the ruby slippers. A (kick-ass) hat and “Stay All Day” lipgloss add some drama, perfect for such a dramatic landscape, and should also help equip Amy to deal with the unpredictable length of days in Oz. A black magic necklace and “Which is Witch?” nail lacquer are apropos tie-ins to the coalition of bad witches she finds herself part of. The lion satchel and twister ring should be self-explanatory. As should the charms: A trailer, a lion, a witch’s hat, and a sparkly (and teeteringly high) shoe.</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-15718146210776653992017-01-07T08:00:00.000-08:002017-01-07T08:00:24.876-08:00Book Style: The Invisible Man<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: auto;">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This post originally appeared on <a href="http://bookriot.com/2014/11/01/book-style-invisible-man-h-g-wells/">Book Riot</a> in 2014.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/invisible_man/set?.embedder=2180648&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=136407574" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img alt="The Invisible Man" border="0" src="http://img2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=GSz1w5TvTTQl1NfUxcRlTw&id=pOAATY5K5BGipUCezSGTQA&size=c600x600" height="600" title="The Invisible Man" width="600" /></span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Penguin-English-Library-Invisible-Man/dp/0141389516"><i>The Invisible Man</i></a> is possibly one of my favorite classic “monster “novel/ellas because Griffin, a.k.a. the Invisible Man, isn’t a monster at all; at least not a supernatural one. He’s human, a brilliant and evil human, which is combination that is ,by far, way creepier than anything else could ever be in my book. I love how well this Penguin edition conveys the subject without resorting to actual bandages on the cover!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Once again, I’ve gone the gender-swap route with the main antagonist: Lady Invisible Man. She needs to be covered head to toe lest we perceive that she’s not actually all there, but I didn’t go full balaclava level coverage because I figured that some (implied) substantial makeup and full cascading wig would create enough distraction once combined with everything I did provide our main mad doctor. Let’s start at the toes and work upward shall we? Opaque tights and over-the-knee boots take care of the legs and feet. A bandage skirt (get it?) fit for an actress gives absolute coverage the lower half. The top portion of the outfit includes elbow length gloves, a vibrant blouse and a dramatic cape. An ample scarf and a wide-brimmed hat offer additional coverage, along with some theater-worthy sunglasses. I also provided our lady villain with an invisible clutch and optics-inspired bangle.</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-60341807782776495792017-01-04T19:29:00.001-08:002017-01-04T19:29:51.923-08:00Book Style: American Gods<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: auto;">
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/american_gods/set?.embedder=2180648&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=213385653" target="_blank"><img alt="American Gods" border="0" src="http://img1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=ggryoR6ybgfvbmfm52Ww&id=AsdnOJ3F5hG8OBveEs3bcg&size=c600x600" height="600" title="American Gods" width="600" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Welcome to the first Book Style of 2017: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/American-Gods-Tenth-Anniversary-Novel/dp/0062472100"><i>American Gods</i></a> by Neil Gaiman. This is one of my perennial favorites and I had been wanting to do a re-read before <a href="https://www.starz.com/series/americangods/featured">the television series launches sometime in 2017</a> - come on Starz, give us a firm date! - and then I stumbled across the new 10th Anniversary mass market edition with the cover art from acclaimed illustrator Robert E. McGinnis and I had to have it. I'm a sucker for pulp/ish art and that vibrant poppy-hued title is so grand! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This outfit started with Laura in mind, hence the navy dress, but it quickly morphed into a semi- gender-swapped Wednesday. Which makes the "Odin" dress a perfect launch point for this Book Style. A pair of silver "Loki" loafers, an "Ibis Whistler" hat, a "Lucky Charms" scarf, and a "God" clutch round out the accessories. For the jewelry I restrained myself to the following: a "Kali" necklace, a two-finger "Anansi" ring, a "Morning Star" midi ring, a pair of golden disc hoops that reminded me a lot of magic golden coins, a"Jackal" cuff, and a Kobold brand watch. Moody "Sheba" lipstick and "Storm Chaser" nail lacquer finish out this look. Now if it will just get warm enough for me to wear something similar. </span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-5776121632247749512016-12-31T07:09:00.000-08:002016-12-31T07:11:42.579-08:002016: A Year In Books<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2016 was, in general, a giant dumpster fire of a year and, quite honestly, not my personal greatest year, either. That being said, I am finally reading again. Not quite back up to my old numbers but I did surpass my goal of 30 books this year by reading 39 titles total - totalling 11872 pages! And I don't feel the need to justify some of them being graphica. Huge progress for me. After the jump is a rundown of my 2016 in books:</span><br>
<a href="http://brandisbookstyle.blogspot.com/2016/12/2016-year-in-books.html#more">Read more »</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-81614805865773658262016-12-23T07:00:00.000-08:002016-12-23T07:00:01.210-08:00Book Style: The Night Before Christmas<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: auto;">
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/night_before_christmas/set?.embedder=2180648&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=213009904" target="_blank"><img alt="The Night Before Christmas" border="0" src="http://img2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=CBkM3H1zUuHRzOcDgMs2sg&id=JJXqChLA5hG-woT_Es3bcg&size=c600x600" height="600" title="The Night Before Christmas" width="600" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Night-Before-Christmas-Little-Golden/dp/0375863591">The Night Before Christmas</a> </i>is this year's holiday Book Style. The classic poem by Clement C. Moore has been adapted more times and ways that I can count. This Little Golden Book edition is part of my childhood. This is 100% a Christmas Day outfit: Cozy, fun, and festive.</div>
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Start off with a pair of reindeer and snowflake leggings and a graphic St. Nick tee. Toss on a warm reindeer cardigan to cuddle up in with your cup of nog. I adore these chimney socks and I really enjoy the idea of celebrating the famously quiet mouse -"Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse" - with these mousey slip on shoes. I literally live in beanies, indoors and out, this time of year and this "Sugar Plum" beanie seems perfect to me. Adorn yourself with a Christmas tree watch, Santa necklace, reindeer earrings, a holly ring, and a gift bow ring. Now enjoy your holiday! </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-83653430714268341322016-12-10T18:27:00.001-08:002016-12-10T18:35:43.893-08:00Book Style: The Visitors<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: auto;">
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/visitors/set?.embedder=2180648&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=212139327" target="_blank"><img alt="The Visitors" border="0" src="http://img1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=ajy877YJUECLJJ2fZ68Xdw&id=vugznYKz5hGi6qrpXS33Qg&size=c600x600" height="600" title="The Visitors" width="600" /></a><br />
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I fell in love really hard with this book. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Visitors-Simon-Sylvester/dp/161219463X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1481421945&sr=8-1&keywords=the+visitors+by+simon+sylvester"><i>The Visitors</i></a> by Simon Sylvester is magical, haunting, beautiful, angsty, and dreamy. Really all of my favorite adjectives. This is one of those rare books where I was as, if not more, fascinated by the characters and their development as I was into the plot. The story follows Flora, in her final year of school, itching to escape her stifling island life on (the fictional island) Bancree. Flora's prediction of a boring final year is interrupted by two mysteries: a unexpected new neighbor and the disappearances of some local men. Her tentative investigations overlap with a writing assignment on local mythology - her chosen subject is selkies. As she bonds with the new neighbor, Ailsa, the story dips and twists into a fatastically unexpected conclusion.<br />
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I went for a Flo-ish outfit with this Book Style. I had to find a red skirt, to represent the one Ailsa gifts to Flo. I paired it with a "Storyteller" bralette (which features a print reminiscent of a bandana) and a "Flora" tank. Fish print tights and "Ailsa" boots take care of the lower half. A plaid cardigan is a nod towards the traditional plaids of the Scottish setting and will keep you warm on the blustery Scottish coast. I had to include something from <i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HgbXWt8kM5Q">Song of the Sea</a></i> because of the selkie connection and found an adorable backpack that Flo would've found perfect for carrying her collected notes in. The jewelry includes a driftwood necklace, a "Flora" bracelet, a whisky quartz ring, and a set of "Hope" earrings.<br />
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If you're looking for your next read and want something transportive with a touch of magical realism, please give this one a shot.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-36213108818518456652016-09-25T16:34:00.000-07:002016-09-25T16:34:17.588-07:007 Stunningly Gorgeous Feminist Coffee Table Books<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Look, I'm a cover snob. I have no problem admitting it. I will straight up buy way too many copies of beautiful books that I may not even love that much because of the pretty. I have also eschewed buying books I loved because I really hate their cover aesthetic. What can I say? I'm judgy. At least when it comes to the items that adorn my shelves. I don't want my books to be merely pleasing to the eye, I want them to matter to me, to say something about me. I want people to come over to my home and see the enticing pile of books on my coffee table (and side tables, and bookshelves, and teetering near the couch on the floor) and really get me. I want to impress people with my brain and my taste by the simple expedient of proudly displaying the books I want to share with the world. So feminist coffee table books are definitely up my alley. Seriously, my "Books" list on Amazon is really skewed towards gorgeous feminist coffee table books (and children's picture books...). Gorgeous and feminist. Have I said that enough? Okay, good. Now that y'all are on board let's explore your options from bringing a few feminist jewels to your own home!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a class="butter" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1452153930/ref=as_li_tf_il?ie=UTF8&tag=boorio-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399349&creativeASIN=1452153930" rel="nofollow" title="Buy from Amazon">Bad Girls Throughout History: 100 Remarkable Women Who Changed the World</a> by Ann Shen
Illustrator Ann Shen's first book is stunning. This book profiles famous and infamous women who rocked the history books. We've got Josephine Baker, Lilith, Abigail Adams, Ching Shih, and Dolly Parton just to name a handful of the 100 bodaciously radical babes inside. Check out her website for even more of her <a href="http://www.ann-shen.com/">gorgeous art</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a class="butter" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0399578862/ref=as_li_tf_il?ie=UTF8&tag=boorio-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399349&creativeASIN=0399578862" rel="nofollow" title="Buy from Amazon">Rad Women Worldwide: Artists and Athletes, Pirates and Punks, and Other Revolutionaries Who Shaped History</a> by Kate Schatz and illustrated by Miriam Klein Stahl
A follow-up to their <a class="butter" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0872866831/ref=as_li_tf_il?ie=UTF8&tag=boorio-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399349&creativeASIN=0872866831" rel="nofollow" title="Buy from Amazon"> Rad American Women A-Z: Rebels, Trailblazers, and Visionaries who Shaped Our History . . . and Our Future!</a>, Schatz and Klein Stahl have once again compiled a beautiful and informative book accessible to all ages. The subjects range from the ancient Sumerian princess Enheduanna to Colombian street artist Bastardilla and from Beyoncé-approved Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie to 16th Century Irish Chieftain Gráinne Mhaol (aka Grace O'Malley). Check out Stahl's website for <a href="http://www.miriamkleinstahl.com/portfolio">more fantastic art</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a class="butter" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1607749769/ref=as_li_tf_il?ie=UTF8&tag=boorio-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399349&creativeASIN=1607749769" rel="nofollow" title="Buy from Amazon">Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World</a> by Rachel Ignotofsky
Women in STEM fields! One of the prettiest books I've held in my hands in ages! Ignotosky's drool-worthy illustrations accompany pages on Hypatia, Ada Lovelace, Patricia Bath, Katherine Johnson, Marie Curie and 45 other brilliant dames. Head to Ignotosky's website for <a href="http://www.rachelignotofskydesign.com/everything/">more artwork</a> (and a downloadable screensaver!)</span><br />
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How about an inspiring, beautiful, feminist book you can color as you please? With a cover this gorgeous and illustrations to make your colored-pencil loving heart sore, I can't think of any reason why this doesn't belong on your coffee table. Check out <a href="http://mdojcsak.com/">Penwomanship</a> for even more fantastic art from Dojcsak.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a class="butter" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0762447362/ref=as_li_tf_il?ie=UTF8&tag=boorio-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399349&creativeASIN=0762447362" rel="nofollow" title="Buy from Amazon">Feminist Ryan Gosling: Feminist Theory (as Imagined) from Your Favorite Sensitive Movie Dude</a> by Danielle Henderson
Maybe you prefer a touch of humor for your company to peruse as they perch on your sofa? Or maybe just some good old fashioned eye candy? Henderson doesn't disappoint with this book spun off from her insanely popular (now mostly defunct) <a href="http://feministryangosling.tumblr.com/">tumblr</a>. Take it from me, on a bad day "Hey girl"s from the maybe Mr. Eva Mendes will brighten your day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a class="butter" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1579655971/ref=as_li_tf_il?ie=UTF8&tag=boorio-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399349&creativeASIN=1579655971" rel="nofollow" title="Buy from Amazon">In the Company of Women: Inspiration and Advice from over 100 Makers, Artists, and Entrepreneurs</a> by Grace Bonney
Slated for release in early October 2016, this one is already on my holiday list. Beautiful photographs accompany interviews with, like the title says, over 100 women. Women who have forged their own paths in the entrepreneurial world. Chefs, designers, writers, restauranteurs, and artists fill the pages of Bonney's book. As lovely as it is inspiring; add it to your lists now.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a class="butter" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1455502804/ref=as_li_tf_il?ie=UTF8&tag=boorio-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399349&creativeASIN=1455502804" rel="nofollow" title="Buy from Amazon">The Book of Jezebel: An Illustrated Encyclopedia of Lady Things</a> by Anna Holmes
Jezebel's founding ladyship has created the perfect hybrid between reference and coffee table book here. Covering the ABCs of womanhood - Abortions, <em>Barbarella</em>, and Casting Couches, that is - this book is full of tidbits about everything that affects the "fairer" sex. Honestly, this one really made me stop and consider how many, seemingly disconnected, objects, trends, and people affect how women are perceived by society.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-20230049726787124242016-09-21T20:04:00.000-07:002016-09-22T14:36:54.415-07:00Book Style: Much Ado About Nothing<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: auto;">
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/much_ado_about_nothing/set?.embedder=2180648&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=205367244" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Much Ado About Nothing" border="0" src="http://img2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=QkLgNZqhEaexRgzVVJXw&id=jI-WmQtd5hGEjba9O4xqOQ&size=c600x600" height="auto" title="Much Ado About Nothing" width="auto" /></a></td> </tr>
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Continuing our adventure in Shakespearean Book Styles, today we're styling Much Ado About Nothing. For those unfamiliar with it's slightly complex plot - seriously, I love The Bard's comedies, but an Abbot and Costello routine is often easier to follow - let me give you a brief outline: Benedick and Beatrice secretly love each other, but don't even know it themselves, so spend all their time <strike>flirting</strike> bickering while their friends scheme to set them up. Claudio and Hero fall head-over-heels in love before an asshole named Don John tricks Claudio into believing Hero has been unfaithful, leading to Claudio slut-shaming her on their planned wedding day. Before the truth is revealed and all the lovers can be reunited Hero "dies from shame". When Don John's plans are finally uncovered, a distraught Claudio is forced by Hero's father (who's been bankrolling the insane amount of festivities the entire play, btw) to publicly un-slander Hero and to marry Hero's "cousin" who is really Hero-who-only-faked-her-death because nothing says true love like being called a whore and then giving your One True Love<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">™</span> a heart attack from shock at the altar. I always like the bickering Beatrice and Benedick better, anyways. </div>
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Onto the actual clothing. I drew inspiration for this outfit from a modern Italian <i>donna di mondo.</i> I paired this "Claudio" skirt with a military-style sleeveless blouse for the sheer joy of contrast, floaty meets regimented. A "Real Hero" leather jacket easily takes this look into colder temps. These "Margaret" booties also transition nicely into colder temps - just add tights when you get chilly! A striking "Beatrice" tote bag and a "Beatrice" rose crown are so delightfully Italian to me. A statement "Hero" bracelet pairs nicely with a "Gossip" citrine ring, "Ursula" tassel necklace, and masquerade-worthy earrings. A pair of "Benedict" aviators add the perfect incognito touch. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8023053312837671578.post-52398835610112808882016-08-17T20:01:00.001-07:002016-09-22T14:38:49.500-07:00Book Style + Review: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: auto;">
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<i><a href="http://www.fountainbookstore.com/book/9781338099133">Harry Potter and the Cursed Child</a></i> by Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, inspired by an original story by J. K. Rowling is the subject of today's Book Style. I'm going to talk about the book below in more detail, since it's a bit spoiler heavy, so let's jump right into the Book Style.<br />
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A pair of black Harry's jeans and a vibrant "Ginny" tank form the base. On top I've added a "Stockholm Syndrome" cardigan for an extra witchy vibe and because I have some feels about how Delphi was raised. A pair of magical "Scorpius" sneakers and a "Magic Touch" hat will keep the tip and the toes covered. For jewelry I added a "Rubber & Magic" ring, a serpent arm band, an Augurey-inspired feather necklace, and a pair of skull earrings. For accessories I chose a "Witch Craft" clutch, a black magic phone case, and a pair of "B'witched" sunglasses to hide that evil gleam in your eyes. The final touch is a bit of sparkly "Dirty Baby" nail lacquer.<br />
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Okay, onto my thoughts about <i>Harry Potter and the Cursed Child</i>. Careful, SPOILERS ahead!<br />
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I won't be the first person to proclaim that <i>Harry Potter and the Cursed Child</i> gave me a lot of mixed feelings. Unlike some people, I'm okay with the story continuing. I'm even okay with the play as a whole - even if I wish it wasn't ONLY a play. Losing Jo's voice, as integral to the world of Harry Potter as the Boy Who Lived, himself, is a bit of a blow to the emotional depth of the story. And reading a play always means experiencing less character insight than a novel allows. We are suddenly stripped of the inner monologues, the nuanced emotions, the narrative point of view. If I saw <i>Harry Potter and the Cursed Child </i>live in London, I believe that I wouldn't be mourning this lack of intimacy. I like to think I'm blessed with a fairly creative imagination and Jack Thorne's stage direction allowed me to get a sense of what being in the theater would actually be like, but reading it on paper is cold. I would recommend really looking at the cast and performance photos ahead of time to help envision the characters better. I will admit that picturing them as the overdone "aged" versions from the final film never worked well for me. With the lack of physical descriptions in the script, I found it easier to see them that way.<br />
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What I do love about the direction that Jo guided Thorne and John Tiffany in is that the play addresses a few of the qualms I had with her original ending. They are able to add a bit more depth to Dumbledore and Snape by acknowledging that while admirable in their sacrifices, they were deeply flawed humans. I'm still not sure how I feel about Voldemort and Bellatrix getting it on. I know Bellatrix would've been all about it, but Voldemort always struck me as being incredibly asexual. I can't picture him getting off on anything but power and cruelty. Maybe the were into BDSM. Or maybe they used some sort of magical in vitro to produce an heir of the Heir of Slytherin. So, that's weird. I hate that Delphi misses out on an opportunity at being a more three dimensional character by being introduced in a play and losing out on us seeing her better. Not thrilled that there's an air of being desperate for daddy's approval, either. I feel like making her evil in her own right would have been a better move. Voldemort's heir would surely want power for herself in her father's absence, not to bring him back to power. Maybe if they'd elaborated on her background more and her upbringing and how much indoctrination she had actually been subjected to. Ah, if wishes were horses... All in all, I am glad I read it and I enjoyed dipping my toes back into the magical world of Harry, Ron and Hermione.<br />
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If you're on the fence about this one, I would recommend it with a couple of caveats: Remember it's a play. Remember that it isn't a story about Harry, it's a story about Albus and Scorpius.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00698396672930433568noreply@blogger.com0