Stacey Faubion's Blog
March 30, 2025
A Year of Bookish Adventures: Seasonal Reading Bucket Lists
July 15, 2024
24 in 2024 Book Challenge: Anne of Green Gables
If I were brave enough to attempt creating a list of my Top 10 All Time Favorite Books Anne of Green Gables would make the cut.
It has all the elements of a good story. Tell me I'm wrong!
Here's six to prove my case.
The writing teeters between poetic and simplistic with a smattering of truth bombs thrown in to make you go, "Awww, I love that."
The MC, Anne Shirley, is simply divine. Her inner thoughts and vivid imagination speak to your heart. You can't help but love her.
It is an orphan story with a theme of found family. Unlike other beloved stories like Oliver Twist and Harry Potter, the adults are killed because they don't have a purpose in the story. In Anne's journey, her orphan status reveals the deep human need for connection to people who love you. It becomes even more poignant when you discover L.M. Montgomery was an orphan, deprived of affection from her grandparents. One can only imagine Montgomery's emotions when she wrote Anne's line "Nobody ever did want me."
The character arc of Marilla (Anne's adoptive mother) is a beautiful grumpy-to-sunshine trope. Although this is typically a romance feature, it feels more powerful and high stakes in a child's life.
Matt (Anne's adoptive father) didn't have such an emotional arc, he was lovable from the start, maybe even as much as Anne. His calm presence on the page made your heart sing every time he decided to speak.
There is no better escape from the realities of this world than a visit to picturesque Avonlea where Anne's story takes place. Although it is fictional, Montgomery based the setting of Green Gables on her favorite place in the world, her hometown of Cavendish on Prince Edward Island. If you love bookish vacations, Prince Edward Island has created quite the Anne of Green Gables experience.
If you've already read the book, try listening to the audio version narrated by Rachel McAdams. She does an excellent job of capturing Anne's spunk and propensity for drama.
And whatever you do, don't forget to pass down this treasure to all the young girls in your life.
Without further ado, here are our 2 Quotes & 4 Fun Facts for the #24in2024bookchallenge.
I'm not a literary scholar, but here's my take.
I thought it would be fun to begin the discussion by answering a question from Anne. As a Christian, I would have to choose to be angelically good but deep down I know I want to be dazzlingly clever.
Anne wants puff sleeves not only because she has a flair for dramatics and an eye for fashion, but also, because she desperately wants to fit in. She lets Matthew and Marilla know she wants the sleeves without directly asking for them. In her heart, she knows she is blessed to have found a home but may be reluctant to dare hope for more. I think Matthew understands Anne's desire, but more than that, I think Matthew wants Anne to know she is loved. Matthew isn't a man of words, but his actions speak volumes.
Marilla was conflicted about sending Anne back to the orphanage, especially after learning Anne would be placed in the care of a harsh woman. I tend to believe Marilla, never married and childless, saw in Anne a chance to make a difference in the life of a child who needed her. Not to mention, Marilla heard Anne's prayers and discovered her need for a faith Marilla was willing to share.
Anne Shirley's honesty is insightful. Her stream of thought pours from her heart with an innocence that is hard to resist. Her zeal for life and vivid imagination are infectious and her unwavering optimism makes spending time in her world a treat. Anne Shirley is a friend we all crave and long to be.
Thanks for spending time in Stacey's Book Nook this month. Join me again next month as we travel back to the 1500s when women were delivered death sentences simply by being accused of witchcraft. From the Drop of Heaven by Juliette Godot was one of my most memorable and favorite reads- it's not an award-winner for nothing.
If you'd like to join the fun, simply subscribe to Stacey's Book Nook, download the challenge prompts, and start reading!
See you next month!
Stacey
July 5, 2024
June's Book Wrap-Up
Just when I was boasting that 2024 was playing out to be my year of classics, I go and fill my June book list with burgeoning indie authors! And I must say, I'm not mad about it.
I also made a happy return to my quest to read Gary D. Schmidt's backlist. This month's selection is a doozy & should not be missed.
I'm confident you will find one of these books worthy of your TBR pile. I'm even more hopeful you will introduce yourself to one of these amazing indie authors and become a fan!
If Judy Blume is the queen of middle grade, then Gary D. Schmidt is the king.
Just Like That is part of the Wednesday Wars stand-alone trilogy thus I highly recommend reading WW first, so you have some backstory into the life of Meryl.
Meryl is processing grief & navigating her new life in a private boarding school. Her teacher, Dr. MacKnockater, has tasked her with becoming accomplished despite being lost in "the blank."
Matt is struggling with his life as a drifter until he also comes under Dr. MacKnockater's tutelage.
In Dr. MacKnockater's wisdom, she brings these two lives together and an unlikely, but true friendship is forged.
As with all of Schmidt's books, sadness, growth, and hope are experienced through the lives of complex and memorable characters. Warning: violent scenes
The Strong Bear of Venice is book 3 in the Luna and Fortuna series and in my opinion, the best of the bunch!
Bernie dreams of playing outside like the normal kids he watches from his window, but cerebral palsy makes this impossible.
When Bernie's mother hires the wise Luna (and her magical cat, Fortuna) to be his tutor, she will help him discover his inner strength. Most importantly, he will realize he is exactly who God made him to be.
The heartfelt friendships, Italian vocabulary, and magical cat with a sassy personality make this book a sweet treat to read with the entire family.
Brianna has dreams of following in her hero's footsteps and becoming a celebrity chef, but first things first! First, she must become president of the whole 5th grade.
There's only one thing standing in her way, the new girl, Jasmine Moon. Read to find out exactly what Brianna will do to win.
This book has a great message of perseverance & determination in striving to meet your goals while keeping your integrity intact.
Betti may be on the Hot Mess Express, but she's also on a mission to save her beloved coffee shop.
When local art is robbed under her nose, the coffee shop owner thinks it may be time to shut down the business. Betti has one week to solve the case, or she'll have to solve an even bigger mystery- figuring out what to do with her life.
This light-hearted mystery is set in the most idyllic setting- a small-town coffee shop. Betti is everything you want in an amateur sleuth, a bit lost and a bunch unlucky in love.
This cozy mystery has all the vintage vibes, and I'm here for it! I could not love Gladwynn's feisty grandmother, Lucinda, more! She's one of those characters that steals every scene & now I want a book just for her!
Gladwynn has it going on too with her retro style and razor-sharp mind. She's going to need it all to impress her new boss and solve a decades-long jewelry theft. Too many unfortunate mishaps keep waking up this sleepy town.
The characters hooked me & the humor reeled me in.
This poignant, historical fiction novel depicts the life of two friends who eke out a living for their families from the sea.
When their island is ravaged by war, an unforgivable, heart-wrenching decision is made that will devastate their friendship.
This story brought history to life from the perspective of a speck on the sea, the tiny island of Jeju. The strength of women shined bright on the bleak backdrop of war. Their lives were unimaginable but now, not unforgettable.
Thanks for visiting my nook. I love chatting books with friends. If you have an auto-buy author, drop a comment. I'm going to need someone else to devour after I finish with Gary. D. Schmidt!
As always, I leave you with a graphic organizer for you to take on your next library or bookstore adventure!
Happy Reading,
Stacey Faubion
June 25, 2024
24 in 2024 Book Challenge: Cult & Run
Are you looking for a little something different than the typical romance? Do you long to read something a bit outside the norm?
Then, have I got a book rec for you! Cult & Run by Kelly MacPherson is a romp of a good time into the cult world of The Committee.
Semi-unbeknownst to Dalmatia, she grew up in a cult. When its spiritual leader (aka Dalmatia's eccentric mom's secret, non-earthly husband) meets his demise, trouble ensues in the form of a cute FBI agent looking for answers.
Detective Kyle needs Dalmatia's help navigating The Committee's underground world. Dalmatia is not an eager informant. And this is where the fun begins! (Okay, it begins on p. 1, but you get my point!)
I've included a few cute quotes from the book as well as four cultish fun facts. Let's face it, people living alternative lifestyles are intriguing, and inquiring minds want to know more!
I love MacPherson's books because not only are they quirky & funny, but she keeps the characters 100% relatable. You won't find another author quite like her! If you like this gem of a book, read her debut novel, The Light of Stars is Dead. It's a vampy frolic with a teenage side character named Maeve you won't forget. I have hope for a sequel with more Maeve on the page!
Up to bat next month is quite a shift in gears. We're reading Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery. This is a classic for a reason- it's stinking good! The characters melt your heart, the setting is divine, and the story is timeless!
If you would like to join the Book Club fun, then click the button below. We have challenge prompts to complete & monthly book chats via email.
Hope your summer is filled with great books!
Stacey
June 19, 2024
Bookish Holidays in July: Bookstagram Post Ideas
Sadly, July has the least number of book-related celebrations of all the months which IMHO makes zero sense giving summer should always be about the books!
But never fear, I've incorporated several book-adjacent holidays that will provide excellent Bookstagram post opportunities- so let's get to it!
If any month can kick the pants off of boredom- it's July! So many things to post, proving just how fun reading is, but here's a quick list to get you started:
Capture your current vacation read.
Showcase your reorganized book space.
Photograph yourself reading outside.
Video a trip to the library.
Show off a bookstore haul.
Chronicle a literary field trip.
Share a favorite book-to-movie adaptation.
Attend a book event & post a selfie with the author.
Start or join a book club & take a group photo. Tell us all about the book while you're at it!
Post your Top 5 Summer Reading Recs.
July 1st is a great time to reflect on all the good books you've devoured so far this year. A simple post idea would be to recycle all your monthly wrap-ups and feature your favorites in the caption.
Today's a great day to highlight your patriotism- book-style. Here are a few ideas to get the creative juices flowing:
A Red, White, & Blue Stack.
U-S-A Spine Stack.
Historical figure biographies in a flat lay.
Make an American flag or star using books.
Take a picture of your book with fireworks as the backdrop.
Like me, you may be wondering why Alice in Wonderland Day falls on the 4th. The story is simple and sweet. On this date, Charles Lutwidge Dodgson (AKA Lewis Carroll) first told the story to his good friend's middle daughter, Alice Liddell. She asked him to write it down and a handwritten copy was given to her in 1964 which is now housed in the British Library.
If you're a fan of Alice's Adventures, you could post a beautiful composition featuring your beloved edition or share a favorite quote.
And if Alice isn't your (ahem) cup of tea, well you can still give a nod to the treasured tale with photos of books and your favorite cuppu or Cheshire-esque kitty. Here is my sad attempt. (Fuzzy isn't the most cooperative model.)
Okay, it's technically not a Bookish holiday, but I don't think it's too far of a stretch for us creative types to showcase some hot romance reads on this day! Not to mention, books about love pair so well with the July beach vacation aesthetic. So, show off your current love story, and if you're really brave post a picture of yourself smooching your meet cute.
As you can see, I'm not so brave!
I've just learned of the Clerihew this month as I researched July bookish holidays. What is a Clerihew, you ask? I'm happy to enlighten you.
It began with a bored high school student (and wouldn't you know it, July is anti-boredom month!) who began writing short, silly, biographical poems about famous people. The simple poems followed an AABB rhyming schematic. He later published a collection of these poems, Biography for Beginners, in 1906. People liked them, began creating their own, and started calling them Clerihews in honor of the O.G.
Here is my attempt at a Clerihew referencing myself:
Stacey Faubion
There once was a girl who dreamed of writing.
She penned many, many words, locked away hiding.
She lost time, money, dignity, and friends,
For the title of author in her The End.
I think a cleverly crafted Clerihew would be the perfect way to reintroduce yourself on Booksta which is a necessary post ever so often. It's a great way to reveal fun tidbits about yourself and keep you human to your followers.
Charlotte's Web is one of those books that capture kids' hearts and make them fall in love with reading. Even if Charlotte's Web isn't your magic book, in its honor, you could gush about the book that made a reader out of you. Or create a Top (whatever number you like) Must Read List for kids. Parents are always looking for books to spark their children's fire for reading.
I have a top 50 list if you're looking for inspo. And if it's been a few years since you've read a middle school book, I highly recommend you return to where it all started. These books are storytelling perfection!
I know this one is a stretch, but I couldn't resist! In my middle grade series, Violet Jenkins, Violet dreams of becoming an astronaut, so you know I'm not missing moon day! This day is set aside to remember humankind's first steps on the moon. Maybe you can do something fun with it too! After all, there are a lot of great space books out there!
It's been a while since my high school days when I had the pleasure of reading a Hemingway novel, but recently I did visit his home in Key West. It was a treat! Antique typewriters on display, a catwalk to his writing den, six-toed cats running amok, and memorabilia taking you back in time.
If you don't make it to Hemingway's house, I urge you to go on other bookish excursions. My bucket list includes a trip to Louisa May Alcott's house (Little Women), Prince Edward Island (Anne of Green Gables), and a return to Key West to visit Judy Blume's book shop.
Or, if you don't make it to Hemingway's house, you could always post a good quote by the master. He has some zingers! My favorite being:
"There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed."
This holiday needs no explanation. What I can offer you though is why this date was chosen. July 30th is the anniversary of Penquin's publication of its first paperback making books a bit more affordable.
You know what to do! Post a photograph of your current read or favorite paperback, give a little summary of the book enticing readers to pick up their own copy, and call it a day.
With over 600 million copies worldwide and a slew of Potterheads, you would be wise not to forget our beloved Harry's birthday which coincidently shares the same date as his creator, J.K. Rowling.
To spice up your post, you could include fun Harry Potter trivia, like the following:
Dumbledore's name was chosen because Rowling always imagined him humming to himself thus, his name is an old English word for bumblebee.
Luna Lovegood was almost Lily Moon.
The Dementors were based on Rowling's experience with depression.
Rowling's favorite chapter is The Mirror of Erised."
Voldemort is French for "Flight of Death."
Fred & George Weasley were jokesters, making their April 1st Birthdays apropos.
The Harry Potter books were the first children's books on the New York bestseller list since Charlotte's Web in 1952. (Told ya Charlotte's Web was magical!)
Rowling stated that the Sorting Hat would have placed her into Hufflepuff.
Ernie & Stanley, the driver & conductor of the Knight Bus, are named after Rowling's grandfathers.
Hermoine's Patronus is an otter, & Ron's is a Jack Russell Terrier, which uncoincidentally, is known for chasing otters.
There you have it- all of July's bookish holidays! I hope your summer reading takes you on many great adventures and you find the time to share a bit about them on Bookstagram. You can find me @staceywritesandreads! I love making new book friends there.
Happy Reading,
Stacey Faubion
June 2, 2024
Stacey's Book Nook: May Wrap-Up
Reflecting on my May book choices, it seems as if this will truly be the year of classics for me!
Another surprise- not one Gary D. Schmidt book was read. But I'm not abandoning my quest to read his backlist. Just Like That is on hold (Thank you, Libby).
Best of all, I didn't have a stinker in the bunch! So, let's dive in & see if you're tempted to read any of them!
A Little Princess was recommended to me by a young, enthusiastic bookstagrammer. She was adamant I give this book a read and I'm glad I did.
Little Sara Crewe is used to a life of privilege, but when it's all ripped away from her in a cruel twist of fate, she discovers who she really is at heart.
This is a heartwarming classic with themes of kindness, self-discovery, and resilience. It would make a wonderful bedtime story to share with the kids in your life.
I listened to this book on Audible, but I highly recommend reading it in its intended form since it's a graphic novel. I know I missed out on some fun!
Jordan Banks is a talented artist with dreams of art school. His mom, however, has other plans for her son.
Jordan is enrolled in a prestigious private school to learn more worldly skills and make connections. Being one of the few African American kids at the school, Jordan struggles with fitting in and learning when to speak up.
This is a Newbery winner for a reason- it's good! (Another backlist goal- read all the Newbery winners.)
If you're in the market for a fun series for kids, give The Vanderbeekers a whirl. It centers around a big, loving family living in NYC who often find themselves in humorous predicaments. Not to mention, these books look gorgeous on your shelf!
The Vanderbeeker kids are determined to surprise their dad with a Birthday trip across the country. On their journey, the kids discover members of their clan are on the cusp of changing in ways they aren't quite ready for and will do almost anything to keep things just the way they are.
This story reminds us that although families change, the love always remains.
My second classic of the month did not disappoint. I discovered this gem on Bookstagram and it must be said- the fandom for this book is legit!
Cassandra along with her prettier sister and fun-loving brother scheme to save their family castle. It has disintegrated down to bare bones thanks to their father's 12-year bout with writer's block.
But their luck is about to change when two American boys move in next door. The only problem is both sisters vie for the attention of one.
This is a story of unrequited love with unexpected twists and turns that make it an unforgettable story. (That was a lot of "un" words in one sentence!)
I listened to the full-cast audiobook and highly recommend this version. (Libby is your friend!)
This book checked so many boxes for me. Historical Fiction- Check
Newbery Honor- Check
A story of courage- Check
Interesting discoveries- Check
This story takes place in 1947 when India was freed from British rule and was divided into Pakistan and India.
With a Muslim father and Hindu mother, Nisha doesn't know where she fits in or who she is supposed to hate. What she must do, however, is leave her home and make a perilous journey to a new land.
So many important and relevant things to discuss in this book! What a wonderful opportunity for a classroom read.
This classic had been on my TBR for too long and I'm so thankful I finally made my way to it. I loved it so much; I am now doing a corresponding Bible study.
C.S. Lewis does an exceptional job of cutting through all the misconceptions of Christianity and stripping it down to its very essence- following Jesus.
This book is written for those exploring a life in Christ, but as a life-long Christian, I found it to be invaluable. It will help you dig deeper into your faith and examine your life as a believer.
It was a month of classics, indeed! I hope you found a few to sprinkle into your summer reading plans. Here's an overview graphic to download in case you find yourself lost in a bookstore debating your next purchase.
If you love books and haven't found your book people, join the 24 in 2024 Book Challenge. It's my online book club where we chat all things books. Each month I post a BOTM and share interesting tidbits I dig up about the story or author. You can read along with me and email me your thoughts- or not (no pressure). There is also a list of 24 prompts to challenge you to read a few new-to-you authors & genres. Plus, it's always satisfying checking off those boxes.
How do you join? Sign up for my email or download the prompts and do the challenge solo.
Wishing you a summer full of good books!
Stacey Faubion
June 1, 2024
100 Beautiful Words
Whether you're looking to expand your vocabulary or you're a logophile (a person who loves words), this is the list for you.
I've collected 100 words that I either love the sound they make rolling off my tongue or their meaning is too beautiful to resist.
Regardless of your motive, add them to your repertoire and make life more beautiful.
Absquatulate (v.): to leave without saying goodbye.
Aesthete (n.): someone who loves and appreciates works of art and beautiful things.
Apricity (n.): the warmth of the sun in winter.
Atrabilious (adj.): gloomy; morose; melancholy.
Axiom (n.): a statement or proposition which is regarded as being true.
Balter (v.): to dance without skill but with enjoyment.
Boketto (n.): gazing into the distance without a thought in your head.
Cerulean (adj.): a blue color like a clear sky.
Charmolypi (n.): joy that emerges out of sadness.
Cherish (v.): to protect and care for someone lovingly.
11. Clandestine (adj.): a secret, often illegal activity.
12. Clinomania (n.): an intense desire to stay in bed.
13. Clowder (n.): a cluster of cats.
14. Dulcet (adj.): sweet and soothing.
15. Elysian (adj.): sharing characteristics of Heaven.
16. Ephemeral (adj.): short lived.
17. Epiphany (n.): a moment when you suddenly feel that you understand something that is
very important to you.
18. Epistolary (adj.): in the form of letters (work of literature).
19. Eternity (n.): time without end.
20. Ethereal (adj.): airy and insubstantial.
21. Eudaimonia (n.): happiness; a good life.
22. Demure (adj.): polite and a little shy.
23. Felicity (n.): the state of being happy or something that causes happiness.
24. Fernweh (n.): a longing for distant places or travel.
25. Fika (n.): a moment to slow down and appreciate life.
26. Finifugal (adj.): actively hating or prolonging something's end (typically a story).
27. Gossamer (n.): a fine, airy, filmy thread.
28. Gumusservi (n.): moonlight shining on water.
29. Hullabaloo (n.): a commotion; a fuss; a loud argument.
30. Idyllic (adj.): extremely happy, peaceful, or picturesque.
31. Imbue (v.): inspire or permeate with a feeling.
32. Incandescent (adj.): emitting light; full of emotion or passion.
33. Incendiary (adj.): extremely hot; likes to start quarrels.
34. Indubitably (adv.): in a manner that could not be doubted.
35. Ineffable (adj.): too great to be described in words.
36. Inglenook (n.): a nook by a fireplace.
37. Ingenue (n.): an innocent or unsophisticated young woman, especially in a play or film.
38. Insipid (adj.): lacking flavor.
39. Inure (v.): to accept or grow accustomed to something undesirable; the process of
becoming hardened.
40. Isolophilia (n.): strong affection for solitude or being alone.
41. Kalon (n.): beauty that is more than skin deep; ideal beauty.
42. Komorebi (n.): sunlight filtering through the leaves of trees.
43. Labyrinth (n.): a complex set of passageways; a maze.
44. Laconic (adj.): expressing much in a few words.
45. Limerence (n.): a state of being infatuated with another person.
46. Loquacious (adj.): excessively talkative.
47. Love (n.): intense affection; a beautiful expression of emotions.
48. Malfeasance (n.): wrongdoing.
49. Marmoris (n.): the shining surface of the ocean.
50. Mellifluous (adj.): sweet or pleasant to hear.
51. Meraki (v.): to do something with soul, creativity, or love; to put yourself in your work.
52. Metanoia (n.): a change in one's way of life resulting from a spiritual conversion.
53. Moira (n.): a person's fate or destiny.
54. Mollify (v.): to soften in feeling or temper.
55. Nadir (n.): lowest point of a situation.
56. Nefarious (adj.): wicked or criminal.
57. Oblivion (n.): a state of unawareness of what's going on around you.
58. Onism (n.): the awareness of how little of the world you'll experience; the frustrated state
that comes from thinking about unfulfilled experiences.
59. Opalescence (n.): a shimmering, rainbow-like display of colors; phenomenon of
iridescence.
60. Panacea (n.): a remedy that could fix any problem.
61. Paracosm (n.): a detailed imaginary world created by a child.
62. Peregrinate (v.): to travel or wander around from place to place.
63. Petrichor (n.): how the earth smells after the rain.
64. Philocalist (n.): a lover of beauty; someone who finds beauty in all things.
65. Pluviophile (n.): a person who enjoys rain and rainy days.
66. Pristine (adj.): fresh or clean.
67. Probity (n.): integrity; honesty.
68. Psithurism (n.): the sound of wind in the trees.
69. Pulchritudinous (adj.): beautiful.
70. Quiescent (adj.): resting in a tranquil manner.
71. Quintessence (n.): the most perfect example.
72. Raconteur (n.): a talented storyteller.
73. Redamancy (n.): a love returned in full.
74. Renaissance (n.): transitional period between the 14th and 17th centuries; a personal
revival; time of great artistic and intellectual growth.
75. Resplendent (adj.): shining brightly.
76. Retrouvaille (n.): the joy of being reunited after a long time apart.
77. Reverie (n.): a state of being pleasantly lost in one's thoughts; a daydream.
78. Saudade (n.): a longing to be near someone far away.
79. Sanguine (adj.): optimistic and positive.
80. Scintilla (n.): a trace or spark of something.
81. Seatherny (n.): the serenity one feels when listening to the chirping of birds.
82. Selcouth (adj.): rare but marvelous; peculiar.
83. Serendipity (n.): an aptitude for making desirable discoveries by accident or good
fortune.
84. Shoshin (n.): the practice of seeing life with wonder.
85. Skosh (n.): a small amount.
86. Snuggery (n.): a cozy room.
87. Sonder (n.): the realization that each random passerby is living a life as vivid and
complex as your own.
88. Squib (n.): a short and witty or sarcastic saying or writing.
89. Susurrus (n.): the indistinct sound of people whispering.
90. Supine (adj.): lying face upward.
91. Tacenda (pl. n.): things that are better left unsaid.
92. Tranquility (n.): the state of being calm or at peace.
93. Tryst (n.): a discreet meeting between lovers.
94. Turpitude (n.): vile, shameful character.
95. Twaddle (n.): trivial or foolish speech.
96. Vellichor (n.): the strange wistfulness of used bookstores.
97. Vicarious (adj.): experienced in the imagination through the feelings or actions of
another person.
98. Whimsical (adj.): playfully quaint.
99. Xertz (v.): eating food or drinking something greedily.
100. Zephyr (n.): a soft, gentle breeze
I see you made it to the end of the list! Being the word connoisseur that you are, you may enjoy perusing some bookish holidays to celebrate. Check out my series of Bookish Holiday blogs beginning with January!
Thanks for visiting my Book Nook!
Stacey Faubion
May 25, 2024
24 in 2024 Book Challenge: Remarkably Bright Creatures
If a quirky, sweet story is your jam, then this is the book for you! Not to mention, Marcellus the Octopus will forever be one of your favorite characters. Now, I know what you're thinking- Hold up, did you say octopus?! Yes, I did! But Marcellus is no ordinary octopus. He's clever, insightful, and devilishly snarky. You are going to adore him and quite possibly consider a future as a teuthologist (That's a person who studies cephalopods, AKA an octopus enthusiast).
Tova is a widow living her golden years in Puget Sound as a volunteer at the local aquarium. She fills her lonely days cleaning cages and caring for her charges. Marcellus is a prisoner (his words) at the aquarium and entertains himself with nightly reprieves from his watery cell. Although Tova is keen on Marcellus's escapades, she keeps his secrets, and the two form an unlikely bond.
Cameron is a thirty-year-old man searching for the father he never knew. On his journey, he finds himself as Tova's replacement at the aquarium creating space for these three lives to connect in an unexpected, heartwarming climax.
Along the way, you'll find Marcellus has rather witty observations about human nature.
Octopuses have quite the reputation as escape artists and are nicknamed The Mimic, but they are also revered as the most intelligent of all invertebrates. There is more behind their eyes than a blank stare. Octopuses are capable of learning, using tools, and best of all, interacting with us.
If your curiosity is piqued, learn more about these remarkably bright creatures by watching National Geographic's Shapeshifters.
Cult and Run is a wild ride written by my dear friend, Kelly MacPherson. If you like books off the beaten path with sassy banter and laugh-out-loud scenes, this cult-y tale will have you snorting your latte out your nose from beginning to end. And who knows, you may just find your new favorite author. Plus, you can give her a follow on Bookstagram @kellywritesabook. Her posts are always entertaining and heartfelt.
To join the #24in2024bookchallenge, click on over to my Bookish Fun tab for the prompts and sign up for my newsletter for monthly book chats.
See you next month!
Stacey Faubion
May 8, 2024
Bookish Holidays in June: Bookstagram Post Ideas
Summer is here! Time to get out the flip flops, head to the beach (or lake), & dive into a good book!
Once the book is read, it is only polite to share your good fortune with the world via Bookstagram. After all, we book lovers are always on the hunt for our next great read.
Bookstagram is the place to be for book enthusiasts! If you're looking to connect with like-minded people (aka: book addicts), then start posting. If you build a bookish account, they will come (wink, wink.).
To help you get started or give you fresh ideas for your feed, I've gathered a list of the bookish holidays to celebrate this month. (A summary graphic awaits you at the end of this post!)
The only thing hotter than a physical copy of a book is its audio edition. Why? Because audiobooks make car rides, chores, getting ready, falling asleep, craft sessions (basically, any solitary activity) better! Not to mention, my book totals took a steep incline once I discovered their magic. And if you loved what you listened to, no one's stopping you from buying the physical book to grace your shelves. It's a win-win!
I still post the cover of the book (thank you, Canva) on my Booksta feed, but I'm sure to mention that I listened to it on Audible, especially if it's a great narration.
If you're looking to up your reading game, give audiobooks a try. It may be your next obsession.
The man, the myth, the legend himself celebrates his birthday this month! Rick Riordan is the author of the ever-popular Percy Jackson & Heroes of Olympus series. More importantly, he is responsible for making readers out of middle school kids everywhere!
Thanks to Mr. Riordan, I never have to teach Greek mythology (yawn). My students know their heroes backward & forward. They devour his stories, create mind-blowing fan art, and talk incessantly about the battles of the gods (again, I yawn- but never to their faces).
It is no matter that Greek gods and mythology aren't my cup of tea. To my students, they are the cat's pajamas. Maybe one day I'll actually read one of the dozens of his books I've purchased for my classroom library! When I do, I'll most definitely post about it!
Okay, it's not technically a bookish holiday, but it is the perfect excuse to post a picture of you and your bestie reading a book together or discuss a buddy read you're enjoying.
What's a buddy read, you ask? Simple. It's a book you and a friend(s) agree to read in the same time frame. Throughout the reading, you discuss the book via messages or texts. It's a lower-level commitment than a book club & a lot easier to organize.
Speaking of lowkey book clubs, have you heard of the Silent Book Club? This is when a group of booktroverts meet up in a public place, read any book they want for an hour or so, and then have a chat (not necessarily about books, but probably about books). It's a book nerd's idea of a good time! If you're interested in something like this, click here.
Ode to a Pen
Here's to thee, noble pen so true,
In thy simplicity, lies the grandest view.
For within thy ink-stained grasp we find
The power to leave our mark on time.
I'm a writer and a teacher; I have a thing for pens. I demand two things from my trusty sidekick- a squishy surface for my fingers to rest and nothing more nor less than a 1.4mm tip. Lucky for me, these workhorses come cheap!
But for Bookstagram's sake, I do have a few darlings I use for props- a purple, fuzzy pompom cap pen, a violet feather fountain pen, and my purple kitty. They have a way of framing a good book and elevating the photo's composition. Sometimes form is way more important than function.
You could do a re-read of this beloved classic or post a beautiful special edition on Bookstagram. But can I be frank? (pun intended!) You could make this a historical fiction day & post your latest read in this beloved genre. I think Ann would approve!
A few of my favorite middle grade historical fiction novels include A Place to Hang the Moon by Kate Albus and A Day No Pigs Would Die by Robert Peck.
My absolute favorite HF is a YA book, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith. I implore you to read this treasured American classic.
Lastly, if you're not into middle grade or YA, then check out Kristin Hannah. She is a master, and her backlist is divine.
Okay, I know it's not technically a bookish holiday, but there are just so many fun things you can do with it on Booksta.
1. A Red, White, & Blue stack
2. An American classic flatlay
3. Use Books to create a flag
4. Review a patriotic book
5. Make a word such as "freedom" or "brave" using the 1st letter of book titles
6. Post books set across America
You get the idea! Spend any amount of time on Bookstagram, and you'll realize you can bring almost any topic back to books. It's one of the many talents of Book People.
June 19: Garfield the Cat Day
Is there a better combo than books and cats? Of course, not! Add grumpy, lazy Garfield to the mix and you have literary perfection.
To honor America's favorite cat, pair your cat with your current read for a guaranteed likable post. Another popular shot is a view of your favorite fuzzy socks, a cat curled up on your lap, and an open book.
What I'm trying to tell ya is that you can't go wrong with incorporating your furry friend into your Bookstagram post. More often than not, book-obsessed people also happen to be crazy cat ladies too!
Take advantage of the stunning light of golden hour and set up your Bookstagram photo shoot outdoors. By far my easiest shots are holding my books up in front of a lovely natural backdrop. Think garden flowers, a path meandering through the woods, a jaw-dropping sunset, a sandy beach on vacation, a water view from your boat or summer cabin- anything outdoors works! The sky is the limit (speaking of which, also makes a beautiful backdrop!)
Finally, a reason to dust off the treasured typewriter you've had on display and bring a little nostalgia to your Bookstagram feed. Add in your pretty notebooks, must-have pens, and a snippet of your WIP or a treasured book quote and you have an interesting composition.
Sidenote, if you miss the clanky feel of your old-school typewriter, then I highly recommend the retro, wireless keyboards available on Amazon. The keys are round and make satisfying click sounds as you type your little heart out. Bonus: they are available in fun colors and brighten up your workspace. I purchased a blue one and am in love!
Double Bonus: Snap pictures of your writing sanctuary & post it on Booksta.
If there was ever a day to post, this is it! It's also the ideal time to re-introduce yourself to your audience. Here are a few ideas to put in the caption of your selfie:
Give 5-10 fun facts about yourself.
Write a report:
R: Reading
E: Eating
P: Playing (What games, music, or activity are you enjoying?)
O: Obsessing
R: Remembering (What's something you're trying to keep in mind? Or share a memory)
T: Trying
3. Share your favorite books
Summertime beckons you to relax and read. Take advantage of all that extra time devoted to reading and up your Bookstagram game. You'll have tons of material to work with. Share your beach reads, give us the scoop on a must-read, and inspire us to join your bookish fun!
Happy Reading,
Stacey
April 23, 2024
24 in 2024 Book Challenge: Buddy Read (A Tree Grows in Brooklyn)
#ATreeGrowsinBrooklyn
Hi Book Friends!
Full disclosure, I picked up this book knowing nothing about it. I was drawn to it for 2 reasons: the cover and the promise of a NYC story. I had no idea I had picked up an American classic nor did I know this book would catapult to the top of my list of All-Time Favorite Books- like, it would make the cut for my coveted Top 10 list. It's that good people!
But TBH, after reading it, I was at a loss as to why I fell so completely in love with this story, but love it I did! So, I will try my darndest to put into words the magic and beauty of this story & try to convince you to read this book immediately!!!
So what's it about? In truth, this is the least spectacular part of this reading experience. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn is a coming-of-age story of Francie Nolan growing up in the tenements of a poverty-stricken Brooklyn neighborhood. Despite the struggles of life as a poor immigrant, Francie clings to her dreams of being a writer.
Which brings us to the true attraction of this story. At its heart, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn is about the power of dreams and the resilience of the human spirit. It calls us to believe in the possibility of a better tomorrow. The themes of love, loss, and the pursuit of happiness are a potent and timeless combo. In other words, it gives you ALL the feels.
And the writing! Betty Smith paints such vivid pictures of life in Brooklyn it's as though you've been transported back in time. The members of the Nolan family are flawed, yet relatable- the eccentric aunt you can't help but love, the father crushed by the weight of his failed dreams, the tough mother that fights for her family all the while sacrificing pieces of herself, and the young girl whose optimism shines through despite her circumstances. They embed themselves into your heart and stay there long after the story ends.
And speaking of endings, I spent 15 hours listening to Francie Nolan's story, and I still wanted more! It is the first book in forever in which I felt depleted and out of sorts when the closing credits cut short my time in 1920's New York. Kate Burton's (of Grey's Anatomy fame) narration & characterization only added to the grit & authenticity of this American classic.
I urge you, I beg you, I implore you (do you feel my passion?) do not miss this unforgettable & timeless treasure! There is a reason A Tree Grows in Brooklyn has cemented its place as a literary classic & has captured the hearts of readers across generations. It is extraordinary in its ordinariness.
And, if you would like to explore the secret sauce of a good book that allows it to ascend over all the other amazing stories to "classic" status, then check out my blog post, What Makes a Book a Classic?.
Now, without further ado, I shall share with you 2 of my favorite quotes & 4 fun facts I dug up researching for this month's Buddy Read.
Let's get down to the nitty gritty & dive a little deeper into this American classic. Take a few moments to reflect on the discussion questions then scroll to read my answers. I would love it if you commented with your thoughts.
Do we harbor the same shame of being poor in today's society as portrayed in the book?
I believe so, however once a person overcomes poverty it becomes more of a badge of honor than a shameful past because we love an underdog story.
Yet, when a person is in the throes of the struggle, there is an embarrassment of their circumstances; the cast down eyes, the outdated clothes, the public acceptance of needed charity. I have witnessed several impoverished school families become upset when food baskets were offered to them. They were offended people would think they needed the help. They did not want the stigma attached to them. I have also welcomed kids with unstable family conditions into my home and thought how tiring it must be to worry about every meal and to have to graciously thank the well-meaning provider for every offering of kindness. All the while my kids nor I have ever had to say a thank you for lunch sack waiting on the counter or refrigerator stocked with favorite treats. We just take it for granted. My biggest take away from my experiences, is to not pity people in less fortunate situations but respect them.
2. How would this story read differently if told from Katie or Johnny Nolan's POV?
First off, I do not think I would love it nearly as much! Katie would be too cynical and Johnny would be too depressing. They already felt trapped by their life choices where as Francie still had optimism and hope for a better tomorrow. Katie & Johnny's stories would lead to dead ends while Francie's determination made me believe her possibilities were endless.
3. Katie is described as cold while Johnny is described as a dreamer. Is this fair?
It was a fair description but unfair circumstances. Johnny's choices left Katie with no other option other than to work hard to provide for her family. I feel like most people in Katie's predicament would become hardened by the weight of her responsibilities. Without her grit, her family might have crumbled. All the while Johnny lived life according to his whims with little thought for the effect this had on his wife and children. His charm lost its luster for his wife but always shined brightly in Francie's eyes. Francie never saw her dad through adult eyes, she chose only to focus on her father's love for her. This meant more to her than her mother's hard work, for her dad provided a more security more precious than money. Francie's dad provided the security of unconditional, expressed love. This made me sad for Katie in that she never felt free enough to lead with her emotions.
4. What makes this book a classic?
In short, this book is more than a good story; it resonates with your soul and makes a permanent home in your heart. It explores universal themes and thus transcends time. The storytelling is masterful and a delight to the ears. It is memorable and begs to be reread. It is a book you fall into, lose time, fall in love with the characters, and feel despair creeping in when the pages dwindle to the end and it's time to say good-bye.
So, have I convinced you to buy & read this book, immediately?! I'm dying to know if you love it as much as I did! And for those of you who read A Tree Grows in Brooklyn with me this month, thank you. I love bookish banter.
If you would like to join the fun of the 24 in 2024 Book Challenge, then click here!
Until next month, bookish friends. I'll be sharing enticing tidbits about our Book of the Month, Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt. I promise, Marcellus the octopus will be your new addiction.
Happy reading,
Stacey Faubion
