Bloggers made of AWESOME

Bloggers Made Of AWESOME: Ashley @ Closed The Cover

bloggers made of awesome

I heard about Closed The Cover from a fellow blogger that I sing the praises of regularly (Hi Rebecca @ Love At First Book!) and after emailing Ashley- I fell in love with her straight-forward, no-nosense ways. I’ve participated in SEVERAL tours with different tour groups and fellow bloggers- and while I wouldn’t  say  I have a favorite- I do like when a blog tour coordinator makes you feel welcome and appreciated- which Ashley does in SPADES. She tweets and uses Facebook to support her tours- not only for the authors, but for the bloggers that are participating. Ashley is BIG PICTURE person- she doesn’t just think about next week- she’s got plans for next year!

Bloggers Made of AWESOME: Ashley @ Closed The Cover

Ashley- when did you begin blogging?

When did I begin book blogging or when I did I begin blogging? I began blogging in general in 2007 on a general WordPress blog about anything and everything. Eventually I realized my poor beloved husband was becoming bored to tears with my constant chatter about books and I decided to create a book blog. Now I talk a little and blog a lot about books! I started book blogging in 2010 but didn’t begin blogging as Closed the Cover until the end of 2011.

 

How did you come up with the name Closed The Cover?

It was tough. I wanted a blog name that associated with books but I wanted to avoid a lot of the commonly used words and phrases. A quick Google search told me there were a lot of book blogs using the words “bookworm, book, novel” and the term “avid reader” so I wanted something different. One night my husband said to me, “Have you ever realized that when you finish a book you don’t close the cover, you slam it?” I opened the book back up and gently closed it then said, “There. I “closed” the cover.” The light bulb went off and my blog name was born! It also seems fitting to me since I do talk about books after I’ve “closed the cover.”

 

What are your thoughts on blogging today in an ever-changing book-ish world? Are blogs helping other readers connect with good books?

I definitely thing blogs help readers connect with good books. It’s funny because I follow a few bloggers that I never agree with on books. I actually watch their blog for books they criticize and then I pick those books up because I know I’ll love them. Different people love different things, you know? There’s actually a blogger I follow who I seem to always agree with on books. I’ve picked up books I would have never looked twice at after reading that he liked it.

 

When you are not blogging (or reading!)- what do you like to do?

Surprise! I’m also a martial artist. 🙂 I’ve earned up to my 2nd degree brown belt in Okinawan Kenpo Karate and I’m a trained staff fighter. I fight with a 5” burned bamboo bo staff. I’ve been doing it now for about 11 years. No one would ever think it of me when they meet me or talk to me but other than reading it’s probably my greatest love (not including my husband or puppies of course).

 

Do you have any #literaryconfessions?

Great Expectations is the only Charles Dickens novel I have ever read. Isn’t that shameful? I’ve never read any of his other works even though I know the stories. I can even quote lines from the books because they are so well-known but I’ve never actually sat and read them myself. Great Expectations is also one of my favorite novels which makes it even more surprising that I never pursued other Dickens’ novels.

 

Do you have a #literarycrush?

Actually, I don’t. I read so much history, historical fiction, memoirs, autobiographies and biographies that it’s hard for me to develop and literary crushes. I read a lot of WWII fiction and they discuss Nazi’s and German politicians. I just finished two books about the JFK assassination. I just read a lot of book that don’t really lend themselves to literary crushes or book boyfriends.

 

What books are you looking forward to reading in 2014?

ALL the books! I actually read a lot of indie authors and I have the tendency to just grab books on a whim. I never really know what is coming out when or what the next big anticipated release is so it’s hard for me to get excited about future books. Sometimes I discover a new book, love it, rave about it, then find it was published in 2010. It’s just how I read. I know I have a lot of books on my to-read list that I will get to in 2014 but the pile is about 3 dozen books deep and I’m too lazy right now to look through it. 🙂

 

What is a book (or 2!) that you’ve read and LOVED- but did not get positive reviews?

Hmm…I don’t know. It usually goes the other way for me. I usually find myself disappointed in a book but then look to find it has GREAT reviews from other people. I find myself feeling like, “What am I missing??” It happened to me with An American Bride in Kabul, Rise of the Governor and In the Company of Secrets.

 

In your opinion, what book has been the best book you have read (so far!) in 2013?

Ahhh! How can you choose?!!! ONE book? That’s mean. I can tell you a book I read and really loved was The Iranian Scorpion by William Peace. It’s a terrorism thriller and it seems that almost no one has heard of it. It’s really good. I also loved Of Blood and Brothers: Book One by E. Michael Helms. It’s a Civil War fiction and I love war fiction! On another note, I just finished I Am Malala about the girl who was shot by the Taliban in Pakistan for standing up for the right for girls’ education. It’s a pretty great book too.

 

You have a beach vacation planned. What are the 3 books that you must bring?

Well, I live near the beach so this is kind of a regular weekend for me. I like to read light-hearted books on the beach – ones that aren’t going to be heavy or complicated. If I could choose three right now I would take A Spear of Summer Grass by Deanna Raybourn which I loved and two books from my to-read list: Beyond Belief: Finding the Strength to Come Back (it’s about the baseball player Josh Hamilton) and Beyond the Western Sun by Kristina Circelli.

 

Are you an e-book or tree book lover? Or does it not matter?

It doesn’t matter. I don’t take my iPad to the beach so I prefer tree books for outdoor reading and eBooks for indoor reading. I donate a lot of the paperback books I receive through Closed the Cover to the Friends of the Library program here locally which supplies youth programs, prison books, women’s shelters and homes for the elderly. Since I can’t donate eBooks I require a $5 donation to the literacy Room to Read for any eBook submissions to Closed the Cover. As far as my reading goes, I can read either one and enjoy it. I have no preference.

 

How do you find other blogs to read? Recommendations of other bloggers?

I meet a lot of other bloggers on Twitter. I also will Google for reviews of books I’ve enjoyed and then follow the blogs I find that also enjoyed that book.

 

Closed The Cover organizes blog tours for authors. Do you have tips or recommendations for other bloggers who might be interested in one day being a blog tour organizer?

It’s a lot of fun but it’s a lot of hard work if you want to do it right. For one, it’s important to remember that the tour is about the author and the book not about you as the blogger or organizer. I hate when I see tour posts that emphasize the blogger who organized it more than the book itself. I’ll see banners and buttons for the organizer but only a small book cover for the book itself. I find that frustrating. I put special emphasis on making sure that the book and the author take priority. I also never restrict the number of stops on a tour. The goal is to get the most exposure possible. All I could tell someone who wanted to organize tours is this: Be organized. Be honest. Be fair. Remember – this is about promoting books not about promoting yourself.

 

What is a book that you’ve wanted to read, but just haven’t found the time?

I’ve wanted to read the entire Dexter series by Jeff Lindsay. There are about 7 books in the series which is a big time commitment. I’ve read the first one but I haven’t had time to read the others yet.

 

Want to connect with Ashley @ Closed The Cover? Visit her website, Twitter and Facebook.

Bloggers Made Of AWESOME: Lori @ Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book

bloggers made of awesome

Several months ago, when I was first starting to get into participating in blog tours- I was participating in Cozy Mystery Reviews blog tours- an awesome site ran by Bella. Unfortunately, Bella had to take a step back from organizing blog tours- but happily, Lori at Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book stepped in. Lori’s tours are fun and she gets quite a many good cozy books. Plus, if there is a problem- she’s quick to handle it!

For all those and many other reasons- Lori is Made of AWESOME!

 

Lori at Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book: Bloggers Made of AWESOME

Lori- when did you begin blogging?

December 31, 2009. It was my New Year’s Resolution.

 

How did you come up with the name Escape With Dollycas?

 I started my blog on Blogger as Dollycas’s Thoughts. I loved the tropical scene backgrounds and they looked like a place I would like to escape away to and sit on the beach with a good book.  That evolved to calling myself Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent.  When I moved the blog to WordPress in October 2010 I wanted and needed a new name and the same friend that suggested I start blogging said I need to use the Escape tagline I was using as the blog’s name. She was right!

 

What are your thoughts on blogging today in an ever-changing book-ish world? Are blogs helping other readers connect with good books?

I have made so many friends through these blogs. I look to them for recommendations and hope they are looking to me. I know I have convinced quite a few to try my favorite cozy mysteries. It is also wonderful to connect with the authors.  Growing up before the internet the authors were almost as much of mystery as their books.  They were a picture on the book jacket with their biography and sometimes there was not even that.  As the world continues to change and authors are self publishing more and more they look to bloggers to help promote their books.

 

When you are not blogging (or reading!)- what do you like to do?

Play with my grandkids!!! Watch Green Bay Packer or Wisconsin Badger Football or NASCAR Racing – Matt Kenseth #20 is my favorite driver!

 

Do you have any #literaryconfessions?

 I love mysteries, especially Cozy Mysteries but I have only read a few Agatha Christie novels. I want to read them all but just haven’t been able to squeeze them in with all my review reading.

 

 

Do you have a #literarycrush? 

 Wow, that is one I have to think about. It would probably be Sherlock Holmes.  Love the movies and have read most of the stories. Plus because of the movies the character is so easy to picture while reading.

 

What books are you looking forward to reading in 2014?

Catching up with all my cozy friends means many new books. Missing  You by Harlan Coben.  Mrs. Lincoln’s Rival by Jennifer Chiaverini

 

 

In your opinion, what book has been the best book you have read (so far!) in 2013?

 Pelican Bay by Jesse Giles Christiansen.  The trailer drew me in, the cover was eerie and I was not sure about it at first because it was getting mixed reviews. Then my husband read it and said “this is not like the mysteries you like to read, but I love it! You really need to read this book.” And I was so glad that I did.  I found myself totally immersed in the book. It was the best story I have read in years. My whole review is here:

http://www.escapewithdollycas.com/2013/09/07/pelican-bay-by-jesse-giles-chistiansen-virtual-book-tour/

 

You have a beach vacation planned. What are the 3 books that you must bring?

Anything by Agatha Christie, The newest Stephanie Plum to make me laugh, & the newest Harlan Coben.

But really I read at home all the time, if I were at the beach I would want to enjoy it so much that I was too tired to even read. Play all day, party in the evening, catch a little sleep and repeat until I had to go home.

 

Are you an e-book or tree book lover? Or does it not matter?

 I love the feel of a real book, the way it smells, there is this happy feeling as you open each new book. If I had not had a friend give me my first Kindle I don’t know if I ever would have made the leap. The only thing I like better on my Kindle is that there is none of that frustration of the words falling to deeply into the book binding. On some paperbacks you really have to bend the book because the words get too close to the crease.  On the Kindle there is no binding and no crease but sometimes there are major formatting issues.  So I guess I would say I am a tree book lover and an e-book friend.

 

Lori- you organize/host  a ton of blog tours as well as review books. What advice would you give to someone who was looking to start organizing blog tours?

 First of all it is fun but is so much more work than I ever imagined. So much has to happen before the first stop and then you need to make sure everyone posts on the date they were booked for. Some tours run so smoothly but then there are those that seem to have mountains of obstacles.  There will be days you love it and days you want to throw in the towel and think “what have I gotten myself into?” Thankfully there are more good days than bad. I just caution anyone thinking of doing it that there is a huge time commitment and something not to be taken lightly because the authors, bloggers and publishers are counting on you to deliver the best tour possible.

 

What book character would you love to be your best friend? And why?

I could never choose one. All the places we travel in the cozy world all the characters seem like friends, it would be wrong to choose just one.  But if I had to choose… maybe Sid from Leigh Perry’s new series. We all need a Sid. You have to read the book to find out why!

 

Hosting a dinner party and can invite 8 different characters from books- who do you invite?

Olivia Limoges – Books By The Bay – Ellery Adams

Tori Sinclair – Southern Sewing Circle Mysteries – Elizabeth Lynn Casey

Tricia Miles – Booktown Mysteries – Lorna Barrett

Isabelle “Betts” Winston – Country Cooking School Mysteries – Paige Shelton

Lila Wilkins – Novel Idea Mysteries – Lucy Arlington

Miss Marple – Miss Marple Mysteries – Agatha Christie

Jane Eyre – Jane Eyre Chronicles – Joanna Campbell Slan

Lula – Stephanie Plum Series – Janet Evanovich – She would have us laughing non-stop, well maybe not Jane and Miss Marple, but it would be a blast. 

 

Want to connect with Lori? Visit her blog, Facebook or Twitter!

 

 

 

Update on Bloggers Made of AWESOME (where’s the AWESOME been?)

bloggers made of awesomeDear Readers of Traveling With T:

You may or may not know that over the summer I started blogging about Bloggers Made of AWESOME- fun, informal interviews (think the kind of interview where 2 ladies would sit with a glass of wine- shooting the breeze about fun topics in the book-ish world).  Why did I start this? I wanted to show off my bloggy friends! I wanted to show the things that made me love their blog to the world (and I wanted to get to know them a bit better!)

Plus, most everyone likes to have their 15 minutes of fame (not saying that by being featured here you are famous- but you get the picture- most everyone likes to have a spotlight on them- and especially their blogs!)

So I worked hard. I contacted bloggers that I really liked. Blogs that I adored. And the response was always great! The interviews were fresh and charming and tons of wonderful! After a bit, I started expanding my pool of AWESOME-ness (and that worked out great, too!)

To the point of the post: It’s been a few weeks since an AWESOME post has been posted. And so here’s the question I know you readers of Traveling With T have been asking yourself:

 

WHERE’S THE AWESOME?

 

The short answer is: The AWESOME is coming! We’re back in session this upcoming Wednesday. The longer answer was that I got behind on my searching for AWESOME blogs. For emailing people. I have almost 10 new AWESOME blogs lined up- and I’m shaking it up even more. Most blogs that were featured were more in the women’s fiction review category. I found an YA blog that I really like- and want to make sure to include blogs that are either mixes of genres or focus on different genres as well- because we all need a shake-up and to see what life is like on the other side of the fence- it makes for great discussion and comments!

Lastly, from now on (or until I have to change it) AWESOME will be a bi-monthly post. The other 2 Wednesdays of the month will have a variety of topics- maybe bloggy tips, maybe an extra review or 2, a giveaway- it’ll just be kind of dealer’s choice (and I’m the dealer, baby!)

Hope to see you next week- when the AWESOME comes back to Traveling With T!

 

Toodles,

Traveling With T

Bloggers Made Of AWESOME: Helen @ My Novel Opinion

Another AWESOME blogger! Helen @ My Novel Opinion is a relatively new blogger, but I started seeing her reviews popping up here and there (mainly because we like a lot of the same books). I started checking her blog out and liked what I saw.  Read on to find about #literaryconfessions and is Helen a book shelf kind of girl or not?

 

Bloggers Made Of AWESOME: Helen @ My Novel Opinion

Helen- when did you begin blogging?

I started blogging at the beginning of April this year, so I’m relatively new.

 

How did you come up with the name My Novel Opinion?

Lots and lots of brainstorming! I wanted to incorporate books and thoughts/opinions into the name so I opened a word document and started going through the thesaurus. One option was The Book Hoarding Magpie since I treat books like shiny objects that I just have to have and then never get rid of them. I like that ‘novel” has the double meaning though – it fits well!

 

What are your thoughts on blogging today in an ever-changing book-ish world? Are blogs helping other readers connect with good books?

I think that blogs absolutely help to connect readers with good books. It now only helps new and upcoming releases but also older books. I just recently read and LOVED Looking for Alaska by John Green as a direct result of the adoration of many book bloggers!

 

When you are not blogging (or reading!)- what do you like to do?

Usually spending time with my children, husband and puppy.

 

Do you have any #literaryconfessions? 

I’ve never read anything by Austen or any of the Bronte sisters, it’s actually quite shameful!

 

Do you have a #literarycrush? 

I’ve never really thought of this! You had me going through my Goodreads list to try and recall if there ever has been one…maybe John from Nicholas Spark’s Dear John, and that may or may not have something to do with Channing Tatum playing the part in the movie 😉

 

What books are you looking forward to reading in 2013?

Well 2013 is almost over, but there are still a few books which I am looking forward to being published: Doctor Sleep by Stephen King, Sycamore Row by John Grisham and The Longest Ride by Nicholas Sparks.

 

In your opinion, what book has been the best book you have read (so far!) in 2013?

Of those published in 2013 it has to be The Husband’s Secret by Liane Moriarty or Looking for Me by Beth Hoffman. Otherwise it would be 11/22/63 by Stephen King.

 

You have a beach vacation planned. What are the 3 books that you must bring?

3 books that I have yet to read (I seldom reread books), they would have a beach/summer theme. Or something lighthearted by a favorite author Sophie Kinsella, Lisa Jewell or Cecelia Ahern.

 

Are you an e-book or tree book lover? Or does it not matter?

I was against ebooks for so long, I felt like I was cheating on paper books but I am now well and truly converted! I love my Kindle and probably couldn’t live without it (I know right) but it is just so convenient and lightweight for those mammoth 1,000+ page books! But I still love real books, and will always buy them and read them. I don’t really think it matters which you prefer as long as you are reading…it’s the same words!

 

Do you stack your books on the nightstand or are you more of a bookshelf person?

Definitely a bookshelf kinda girl. My husband would go crazy if I had a stack lying around on the nightstand. It’s bad enough when I have a few lined up on the coffee table!

 

To connect with Helen @ My Novel Opinion, visit her blog or follow her on Twitter,

 

 

 

Bloggers Made Of AWESOME: Drey @ Drey’s Library

 

Another AWESOME blogger! Drey of Drey’s Library is a blog I started keeping up with months ago. Why? I never knew what to expect at Drey’s blog- 1 day it’d be a fantasy type book, another a chick lit- maybe some historical fiction- and on and on!

Drey’s Library was like walking in a candy store and being able to sample all the goodies in one place!

So I approached Drey about an interview- and I’m so glad she said “yes!” Even better- I found out she was totally Team Peeta (I knew I liked Drey!)

 

Bloggers Made Of AWESOME: Drey @ Drey’s Library

Drey- when did you begin blogging?

I started in November 2008, so it’s been a few years now. O.o

How did you come up with the name Drey’s Library? Did you consider other names? Or did you want something simple and to the point?

Well, my real name’s Audrey, and a lot of friends shorten it to “drey”. And when I started blogging, I wasn’t sure if I was going to stick to books, or if I wanted to chat about movies, TV shows, and music too. I did the others for a bit on my other blog, but it’s probably defunct now – I haven’t updated it in over a year, I think. *hides in shame*

What are your thoughts on blogging today in an ever-changing book-ish world? Are blogs helping other readers connect with good books?

Bloggers do help readers find good books, and vice-versa – I’ve had quite a few awesome titles recommended by readers. I’m also glad that publishers work with us – I wouldn’t be reading as much as I do now if they didn’t. And while not all the books sent out are out-of-this-world awesome, there’re still gems to be found. I’ve been introduced to so many new authors (new-to-me, that is), and I’ve had the pleasure of sharing these with my readers. Hopefully they feel the same!

When you are not blogging (or reading!)- what do you like to do?

I don’t have much time to do anything else! I work full-time, and between that and running my son all over (school, sports, etc.) I’m happy to be able to blog and read! J

Do you have any #literaryconfessions? 

Hmm. Do I really want to share? I’ve had a copy of Kurt Vonnegut’s Slaughterhouse Five sitting on my shelves for YEARS. I want to read it, I really do. One of these days…

Do you have a #literarycrush? 

Ah, how does one pick and choose? I read a lot of fantasy, and while I love the characters, I wouldn’t say I had a crush on them… On the other hand, I also read a lot of romance novels, and it would be fair to choose one (or two). Now, if you’d asked Team Peeta or Team Gale, it’s Peeta all the way. 😉

What books are you looking forward to reading in 2013?

I can’t wait for Max Gladstone’s follow-up to Three Parts Dead – TWO SERPENTS RISE comes out in October. And add me to the list of fans waiting for Veronica Roth’s ALLEGIANT (Oct.), Jay Kristoff’s KINSLAYER (Sept.), Maggie Stiefvater’s THE DREAM THIEVES (Sept.), Margaret Atwood’s MADDADDAM (Sept.), Seanan McGuire’s CHIMES AT MIDNIGHT (Sept.), Kiersten White’s THE CHAOS OF STARS (Sept.), Julie Kagawa’s THE IRON TRAITOR (Oct.), Devon Monk’s HELL BENT (Nov.), Cherie Priest’s FIDDLEHEAD (Nov.)… The list goes on. And on, and on, and on…

In your opinion, what book has been the best book you have read (so far!) in 2013?

Well, let’s see. I loved Stephen Dobyns’ THE BURN PALACE, Susanna Kearsley’s THE FIREBIRD, Sandra Byrd’s ROSES HAVE THORNS, Rod Rees’ THE DEMI-MONDE, and R.S. Belcher’s THE SIX-GUN TAROT. But my favorite has to be Elizabeth Chadwick’s SHADOWS AND STRONGHOLDS. I love her historical fiction, her characters are always three-dimensional and real.

You have a beach vacation planned. What are the 3 books that you must bring?

Beach vacations are for books yet unread. And so it’ll have to be 1 contemporary romance (Jill Mansell, Jill Shalvis, etc.), 1 urban fantasy (I have tons of favorite authors, so it’ll be whomever has just released a novel), and 1 funny, no-thinking-required mystery or chick-lit.

Are you an e-book or tree book lover? Or does it not matter?

It doesn’t matter, I’ll read both. I do prefer review copies in print though, because then I can arrange them in the order I need to read them in. J

Drey, your blog is an eclectic mix of books that you review.  Did you consider narrowing your blog to focus on only 1 or 2 genres- or is variety the spice of life?

Ah, if only I could narrow it down! I think genre-specific blogs are more popular than the eclectic mix on mine, but I cannot bring myself to drop genres. I read EVERYTHING – well, almost! I skip the memoirs (though I’ve reviewed a couple of ‘em!), biographies, and all non-fiction. If I dropped mysteries and thrillers, I never would’ve read Elizabeth Haynes. And how can I not pick up multi-cultural fiction? There’s just no way. Variety is definitely the spice of life!

If you could best friends with a character from a book- who would you pick? And why?

I couldn’t. Don’t make me – I might spontaneously combust!

If the books on your book shelves could talk, what would they say about you?

Either that I’m very eclectic, or that I can’t make up my mind! There’s everything from fantasy to YA to thrillers to President Obama’s The Audacity of Hope and Randy Pausch’s The Last Lecture. Folk tales from China and Malaysia. Amy Tan and Gail Tsukiyama share space with Neil Gaiman, Ian Tregillis and Scott Westerfeld.

 

Liked reading about Drey @ Drey’s Library? For more information- blog, Twitter, Facebook

 

 

Bloggers Made Of AWESOME: Melody @ Read, Baby, Read

Another AWESOME blog! I found Read, Baby, Read because of a giveaway I was interested in- then started tweeting with Melody- a fun and bright person. She’s always tweeting these great books- and her blog is adorable!

Bloggers Made of AWESOME

Melody- when did you begin blogging?

I began in January of 2012, although it seems like it was yesterday!

How did you come up with the name Read, Baby, Read ?

I had originally planned on running a children’s blog that reviewed literature designed for young readers, and that offered insight and tips for parents and families. My goal was to encourage more families to create life-long reading habits, and a passion for reading at home. I created the name because I thought it was catchy.

What are your thoughts on blogging today in an ever-changing book-ish world? Are blogs helping other readers connect with good books?

I know that blogs are helping connect readers with great books.  I have had a lot of feedback from readers telling me, “thank you for recommending _______ to me! It was fantastic!” Everyone is so connected through social media, I think blogging is a great way for authors to connect with readers. I also think it is a fantastic way for bloggers to connect with authors. I’ve loved both connecting with authors and readers as a blogger. For me, authors are like celebrities.

When you are not blogging (or reading!)- what do you like to do?

I am loving Zumba classes. I don’t care how foolish I look, I love taking those classes. If I’m not reading, or blogging, you’ll find me hanging out with my family, or taking Zumba!

Do you have any #literaryconfessions? 

My literary confession is that I have never read To Kill a Mockingbird completely. Bits and pieces, yes, but the whole thing? No. (hanging head in shame)

Do you have a #literarycrush? 

I’m going to break the rules and choose one way off the beaten path. This is the craziest example I think you will get, but my literary crush is Nick from Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn. I mean, who wouldn’t want a man that stuck by you when you have proven yourself to be an absolute NUT?! Always keep them on their toes is what I say!

What books are you looking forward to reading in 2013?

Jane Porter’s The Good Wife, Karen Joy Fowler’s We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves and Liane Moriarty’s The Husband’s Secret (and many more!)

In your opinion, what book has been the best book you have read (so far!) in 2013?

I truly enjoyed Taylor Jenkins Reid’s Forever, Interrupted. So beautifully tragic, but heart-warming at the same time. I also really liked The Yonahlossee Riding Club for Girls by Anton DiScalfani.

You have a beach vacation planned. What are the 3 books that you must bring?

A Hundred Summers by Beatriz Williams, The Cuckoo’s Calling by Robert Galbraith (J.K. Rowling), and The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey.

Are you an e-book or tree book lover? Or does it not matter?

I am a book lover, but I try to read all of my galleys as e-versions. I am a book lover because I honestly think it uses more earthly resources to power up an e-reader, than it does to print a book. At least that is what I have tricked myself into believing. I love everything about a physical book!

Melody- you are a reading teacher. How does your love of reading impact the student?

It is so important for me to love books, and enjoy sharing books with my students. I have the best job in the world! I get to promote books ALL DAY LONG, and inspire children who would have not otherwise picked up a book to become readers! We run a challenge with our students to read 40 books a year, and we have so many students read a lot more than that! I love getting parents involved in reading as well, as children will look to their parents as reading role models. My “job” is so gratifying, and I get paid to do it. I’m a lucky girl!

What is your favorite line/quote from a book?

“Be who you are, and say what you feel,  because those that mind don’t matter, and those that matter don’t mind.” Dr. Suess

Do you judge a book by it’s cover?

Yes. Every. Single. Time. Truthfully, I have missed out on some quality reads because I loathed the cover.

Do you participate in reading challenges/ virtual blog tours? If so, are there any that you think are just fantastic?

I do participate in both! I have worked with Chick Lit Plus, and have been a part of going on two virtual book tours. I also participate with my students in the 40 book challenge, and I post the book I am currently reading on my classroom door, and tally the number of books I have read this year. The students always try to beat me! It’s adorable to have them look at my number and say, “I’ve read more books than you Mrs. Simons!”

 

Like my interview with Melody? Think she’s made of AWESOME? Follow her blog, Read, Baby, Read and follow her on Twitter

Bloggers Made Of AWESOME: Cindi @ Utah Mom’s Life

Cindi, like me, is a member of She Reads. When She Reads tweeted that A Utah Mom’s Life was joining She Reads- I tweeted her “hello and welcome to the group”- and the rest is history.  Cindi is opinionated about books- she’s passionate about reading- and fun to talk with.

Bloggers Made Of AWESOME: Cindi @ Utah Mom’s Life

Cindi- when did you begin blogging?

I’ve been blogging for about six years. I had a private family blog and Utah Mom’s Life for things I wanted to share publicly. About four years ago, I decided to combine the two into a single blog. It drives my mom crazy because she wants more pictures of the kids and I tend to write more about books.

 

How did you come up with the name A Utah Mom’s Life?

It’s a simple name for a blog but I actually thought about it for a long time. I wanted something that conveyed everything that I wanted to write about. It’s personal since most of my time is spent being a mom to my five kids. It’s specific to my geographic location which was good since I often write about local activities. Plus it pops up quickly in search engines. It encompasses all the important parts of my life — books, photography, my family and religion.

 

What are your thoughts on blogging today in an ever-changing book-ish world? Are blogs helping other readers connect with good books?

I definitely find myself feeding my book-obsession more because of blogging. Reading book reviews on my favorite blogs regularly (too regularly, I confess) inspires me to buy the book. The book buzz from other bloggers is a huge influence on my reading choices.

 

When you are not blogging (or reading!)- what do you like to do?

I love spending time with my family. My husband is my best friend and we enjoy hiking, watching foreign films and Justified together, discussing politics and current events. Someday we will travel together again. My kids are awesome and keep us running constantly with their activities. I come from a large family (I’m the oldest of seven kids) and we always have a hysterical time when we get together.

I’m also an amatuer photographer. I love taking pictures of families and children.

 

Do you have any #literaryconfessions?  

I hate poetry. My husband thinks I’m crazy, since I was an English major in college, but I really do hate poetry. I’m often tempted to skip a poem when it’s in a novel.

Also, I don’t love Jane Austen novels. I’ve read them but I find them pretty blah. And I would rather die than watch the BBC version of Pride and Prejudice. Sorry Colin.

 

Do you have a #literarycrush?  

This is a really hard question. It takes quite the man to impress me. I like Edmond Dante from The Count of Monte Cristo. The male characters in The Firebird and Love Water Memory are quite nice. I kind of had thing for Henry from The Time Traveler’s Wife.

For a few years, I read primarily biographies and I fell in love with John Adams (I know!) and Teddy Roosevelt.

 

What books are you looking forward to reading in 2013?

In July, I bought  And The Mountains Echoed. I loved Hosseini’s A Thousand Splendid Suns and I’m really looking forward to his latest. I’d also like to get my hands on the new novels coming out from Jamie Ford and Diane Setterfield this fall.

 

In your opinion, what book has been the best book you have read (so far!) in 2013?

I loved A Land More KindThan Home by Wiley Cash. It came out last year but I didn’t get to read it until this year. I could gush about it for hours and I forced my husband (who really has no time to read fiction) to read it so that we could discuss it.

Life after Life by Jill McCorkle didn’t get as much attention as Kate Atkinson’s novel of the same title, but it really made an impression on me. I also loved A Teaspoon of Earth and Sea, The Aviator’s Wife, and Benediction. I finally read Night Circus and was blown away.

 

You have a beach vacation planned. What are the 3 books that you must bring?

Looking at my to-read shelf, if I was leaving today on vacation,  I would grab Gone Girl, Overseas and A Light Between Oceans.

 

Are you an e-book or tree book lover? Or does it not matter?

I have a Kindle Fire. I can’t find it right now. I think my daughter took it with her to visit her grandparents. But it doesn’t matter because I can’t stand reading books on it. I feel bad for the books I’ve tried to review by reading an e-book because I’m sure my opinion is tainted.

I love the feel of a real book–paperback or hardback. I sometimes find myself caressing the spine while I read. (I do hate creases in the spine and perhaps subconsciously I think a little gentle massage will help prevent wrinkles.) I love the smell. I love the look of the book on my shelves. I like to loan my books out to my neighbors or put a favorite into the hands of my child.

 

Cindi- you are a member of She Reads. To you, what does that mean for women readers? Does She Reads give them a voice in this book world? A place to go and say “These are the kinds of books I want to read?” Has She Reads also broadened your reading taste?

I’ve been hosting a neighborhood book club at my house for over five years. I really try to encourage the women in my neighborhood to read great books and I’ve been able to read and enjoy books that I might not have picked for myself.  Just like every book club, we read the book, discuss it and support each other in our lives. We sometimes end up visiting with each other into the wee hours of the morning. I think She Reads does the same thing in a larger online setting. We support women authors and the books that resonate and have meaning for women. I’ve only been a member for a few months but I’ve really enjoyed the association I’ve had with the other members and being exposed to a variety of  books. I think She Reads is a great place for women.

 

What is your favorite line/quote from a book?

This is a tricky question. I honestly can’t think of a favorite quote from a book other than the scriptures, which I love and try to read daily. Our family’s mantra comes from scripture. We repeat it together each evening.

“Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing, and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house oforder, a house of God;” D&C 108:8

 

Do you judge a book by it’s cover?

If I am browsing in a bookstore, I totally judge a book by it’s cover. I’m so visual. I can guarantee I won’t pick up a book if there is a half naked couple kissing on the cover. Make it a picture of a couple embracing, dressed in World War II era clothing and I am definitely going to pick it up.

Most of the time, I buy a book after reading a review or hearing buzz about it online. In those cases, I don’t care what the cover looks like.

Liked my interview with Cindi @ Utah Mom’s Life? Visit her blog, Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter pages!

Bloggers Made Of AWESOME: Laura @ A Novel Review

Another installment of Bloggers Made Of AWESOME! This time it’s Laura @ A Novel Review. I discovered Laura through Twitter, we liked many of the same books- so I always kept an eye open to see what she was tweeting or blogging about. We are also both members of She Reads. Laura’s blog is interesting, cute (it recently went through a remodel- and I really like the new look!) Plus, she’s involved in many book-ish things. Add her blog to blogs you must read!

 

Bloggers Made Of AWESOME: Laura @ A Novel Review

Laura- when did you begin blogging?

I started blogging in March of 2011, wow I can’t believe I’ve been blogging for over two years! It goes so fast!

 

How did you come up with the name A Novel Review?

Well, I sat down with a notepad and started with a list of possible names for my blog. A Novel Review wasn’t really one that I thought was great, lol but there were so many blogs with similar names I was looking at. I also wanted to make sure I could add other bloggers down the road if it ever grew (and it has!). The name pretty much tells you what the blog is about—simple and straight forward.

On a side note, I did find out after the fact there is another blog called A Novel Review, but the blogger no longer blogs.

 

What are your thoughts on blogging today in an ever-changing book-ish world? Are blogs helping other readers connect with good books?

I believe bloggers are becoming more and more important to the book-ish world. I know I check other bloggers to see what they say about a book before I buy a book. Personally, I’ve never read newspaper reviews. But bloggers are just a click away, blogger reviews are at my fingertips when I’m looking to buy on my nook—right there and I can read what they are saying about the book.

When you are not blogging (or reading!)- what do you like to do?

Well I’m a busy mom. I have four kids (three still at home) ranging from a junior in high school, a first grader and a little one in pre-k. So besides reading and blogging, that keeps me really busy. I also volunteer at our church working with kids, I love to crochet and make hair bows for my youngest daughter, and I write. I have a novel I’m working on, a short story and I try to write for Yahoo Contributor now and then (gotta build those writing chops).

 

Do you have any #literaryconfessions?  

I’m a book hoarder. I have a serious…let’s call it an issue. I can’t read nearly as fast as I need to in order to read all the books I get in a month. I try not to take on too many reviews, but if there is a book I think will be amazing I try really hard to win a copy. I have an entire shelf of books I really want to read, but no idea when I would actually be able to read them. We won’t even discuss the books I purchase.

Do you have a #literarycrush? 

Oh goodness…tell me you didn’t ask this! Ok this is a throwback, but Ponyboy Curtis from THE OUTSIDERS by S.E. Hinton! I will never forget the book, or the movie. I loved both. I loved how the greasers were this rough group of bad boys, but Ponyboy was golden. He seemed so perfect to me. I’ll be honest and say I could never get how Cherrie preferred a Soc or even Dallas. Ponyboy just seemed like enough bad boy, but still had a soft side.

What books are you looking forward to reading in 2013? So many!

My tops are MORNING GLORY by Sarah Jio, THE GHOST BRIDE by Yangsze Choo, THE BUTTERFLY SISTER by Amy Gail Hansen, and THE FIRST PHONE CALL FROM HEAVEN by Mitch Albom. I’m still trying to get my hands on some of these!

 

In your opinion, what book has been the best book you have read (so far!) in 2013?

This is a really hard question. I’ve read a multitude of truly amazing books this year, but I would say the best of the best this year has been SEDUCTION: A NOVEL OF SUSPENSE by M.J. Rose.  It is a stunning novel.

You have a beach vacation planned. What are the 3 books that you must bring?

Honestly, whatever books are next in my review pile. Let me be honest, I get very little reading done on the beach with two young children!

 

Are you an e-book or tree book lover? Or does it not matter?

I’m a tree book lover, I just love the feel of a real book. Silly, but I love the sound of ‘breaking the spine’ of a new book and oh the sweetness of a book with deckled edges! I enjoy seeing how far I have to read—sometimes I also dread this when coming faster than I want and I like seeing how much I’ve read.

I don’t mind e-readers, I can see the space saving appeal and always having an extra book with you.

You are a member of She Reads- an organization that helps women find great books. What is the experience like- helping authors get the word out about books and connecting women with great books?

Oh love being a part of She Reads! It is run by some really lovely ladies and I love helping to share about fabulous books! I love the community of readers being brought together. When I began blogging/reviewing I did it with the desire to expand the genres I read and the authors I read. With She Reads I have been introduced to a number of great authors and had the pleasure to get to know them a bit more. I can’t wait to have more time to be even more involved in the group.

 

In your opinion, what do you think is more important- a good opening line or an ending that leaves you wanting to discuss the book with everyone?

Hmmm, I think for me it’s the ending. I don’t expect a book to draw me in the first line, but a great book leaves me wanting more.

If you could go on a literary road trip- where would you go?

Well, I used to want to go down to New Orleans after reading a few books set there. I’m thrilled I was able to go. I loved seeing the entire area, it was very cool. I also always wanted to go to the East Coast to experience the Ocean, beaches, light houses and Cape Cod homes with weathered siding. So I was over the moon when we moved to New Port, RI. I would say now a trip to England would be my choice of literary road trip. To not only get a sense of England today, but to get to tour real castles! See some of their beautiful English Gardens!

 

Find more out about Laura @ A Novel Review- follow her blog, or visit her Facebook or Twitter!

 

Bloggers Made Of AWESOME: Katherine @ Story Matters

Katherine is a fellow She Reads member- but her blog’s name is what caught my attention: Story Matters. I thought it sounded like a blog that has heart and maybe a deep thought or so for whenever I need a little pick me up. I’m never disappointed when I read Katherine’s blog!

 

Bloggers Made Of AWESOME: Katherine @ Story Matters

Katherine- when did you begin blogging?

I came to blogging very reluctantly a little over a year ago. As an aspiring novelist, I knew that I needed some kind of web presence in order to be considered by publishers, but keeping up with the endless demands of social media struck me as an irksome distraction. I have two children in elementary school, and my writing time is limited more or less to the hours they are in school. I was loath to pull any of that precious time away from my novel and put it into something that I questioned the value of.

So I put it off until I signed with my agent in February 2012. One of the first assignments she gave me was to start building my web presence. So, hoo boy, I knew I could avoid it no longer. Fortunately for me, I knew a fantastic social media guru—Laura Christianson of BloggingBistro.com—whom I’d met at a writer’s conference. I consulted her, and she helped me create a website that incorporates my interests in both writing and reading—which soon led to blogging about books.

How did you come up with the name Story Matters?

I have long been fascinated by the phenomenon of *story*–how every culture has a storytelling tradition in one form or another. The way *story* is used to guide and teach and encourage. The way *story* can circumvent reason to creep through the back door of our hearts to inform our minds and affect our behavior. *Story* is a most powerful tool!

I chose Story Matters as the name for my blog because of this, and because I appreciate the double entendre. My blog is a forum to discuss all things story-related. It’s also an acknowledgement that our stories—yours, mine, his, hers…regardless of how apparently ordinary or inconsequential—really do matter in the grand scheme of life.

What are your thoughts on blogging today in an ever-changing book-ish world? Are blogs helping other readers connect with good books?

I see blogs playing an increasing role in the book world. More and more readers are turning to book review blogs for information about what’s good, what’s not. And I appreciate the dialogue this opens up among readers and writers.

When you are not blogging (or reading!)- what do you like to do?

I love spending time with my husband of 23 years and our son (12) and daughter (9)—going on hikes, playing Bananagrams, watching my son play ice hockey and my daughter dance ballet, traveling (most recently to Scandinavia), just hanging out.  I’m also an aspiring novelist, so most of my work hours (i.e., the hours my kiddos are in school) are spent on my WIP (work in progress). I volunteer quite a bit of my time at our school and church as well. And I do love to read, so if I’m not doing any of the above, I most likely have my nose in a book.

Do you have any #literaryconfessions? 

I suppose I’d have to confess that I’m just not that into the classics anymore. I’ve enjoyed them at points in my life, but these days, I’d much rather immerse myself in a great contemporary novel by a fresh new voice. And I don’t get most poetry. I think it’s because I’m too impatient a reader, and with poetry, you have to be willing to invest time and ponder awhile.

Do you have a #literarycrush? 

These days, my husband is all the crush I need. J But years and years ago, I remember crushing on Trixie Belden’s boyfriend, Jim Frayne. And as an addendum to #literaryconfessions, I occasionally indulge in a re-read of one of my old Trixie Belden mysteries (I still have the entire series). I find the nostalgia trip very soothing.

What books are you looking forward to reading in 2013?

Oh, there’s such a thick pile of books I can’t wait to read. Sometimes I despair at getting to them all, and yet the knowledge that they await fills me with delicious anticipation. It creates an interesting tension. Anyway, included in that pile (and not all of them new releases) are:

The Underside of Joy by Sere Prince Halverson

My New Orleans, Gone Away by Peter M. Wolf

North of Hope by Shannon Huffman Polson

The Obituary Writer by Ann Hood

gods in Alabama by Joshilyn Jackson

The Girls by Lori Lansens

Rescue by Anita Shreve

In your opinion, what book has been the best book you have read (so far!) in 2013?

I’ve been touting Jolina Petersheim’s The Outcast as my most recent fave. I was stunned by this debut novelist’s skillful storytelling. I also loved Heather Kopp’s intensely authentic recovery memoir, Sober Mercies: How Love Caught Up With a Christian Drunk, and Julie Kibler’s beautiful debut, Calling Me Home.

You have a beach vacation planned. What are the 3 books that you must bring?

Sweet Salt Air by Barbara Delinsky. Barefoot Summer by Denise Hunter. Blue Bistro by Elin Hilderbrand.

Are you an e-book or tree book lover? Or does it not matter?

I do love a real book, and I thank trees for their noble sacrifice. I relish the very feel of a book in my hand, its solid weight, its texture, the smell of its pages. And a lovely cover design fills me with singular joy. While I appreciate the advent of e-readers and the flexibility they offer, I will never outgrow my desire for the real deal.

Katherine- you are a member of She Reads. To you, what does that mean for women readers? Does She Reads give them a voice in this book world? A place to go and say “These are the kinds of books I want to read?”

Love She Reads! So appreciate what they are doing for women’s fiction—for both women who write it and those who read it. Book by book, as they recognize and promote quality women’s fiction, She Reads is becoming an increasingly powerful voice in the industry. I count it a distinct privilege to be a blogging member of their organization.

What is your favorite line/quote from a book?

“You is kind. You is smart. You is important.” From The Help by Kathryn Stockett

 

Liked my interview with Katherine @ Story Matters? Follow her blog or Twitter!

 

Bloggers Made of AWESOME: Jen H @ The Relentless Reader

Jen @ The Relentless Reader- I have Allison @ The Book Wheel and Rebecca @ Love At First Book to thank for introducing me to Jen H.  Why is Jen @ The Relentless Reader AWESOME? She recommends good books, she’s funny on Twitter and she’s all about trying to make the blogger experience better for others (ex: she’s totally not a fan of CAPTCHA and presents good reasons why!)

Bloggers Made of AWESOME: Jen H @ The Relentless Reader

Jennifer- when did you begin blogging?

June 28, 2012. I recently celebrated my one year blogoversary!

How did you come up with the name The Relentless Reader? 

I considered SO many names (Wisconsin Word Nerd, etc.). I asked friends and family for advice and posted a HELP ME PICK A BLOG NAME status on my personal Facebook page. But now I can’t remember where in the world the name came from. It definitely fits my personality though.

What are your thoughts on blogging today in an ever-changing book-ish world? Are blogs helping other readers connect with good books? 

I certainly hope we are! I love helping people find a great book, it’s one of the reasons that I love to blog. I know that other bloggers help me find fab books to read. Thanks to them my tbr pile is ridiculous!

When you are not blogging (or reading!)- what do you like to do? 


I love spending time with my kids. They are 21, 15, & 13. Their favorite thing is avoiding their nerdy mother. So, the whole hanging out thing doesn’t happen often 😉

Also, I like to find a series on Netflix and watch it obsessively for 3 days in a row.

Do you have a #literarycrush?

Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird. SWOON!

In your opinion, what book has been the best book you have read (so far!) in 2013? 

Oh man, this is so hard to answer. 2013 has been packed with great books so far! One fiction that has stuck in my mind is A Constellation of Vital Phenomena by Anthony Marra. Is it my favorite of the year? Perhaps! I’ve also read some incredible nonfiction including The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown

You have a beach vacation planned. What are the 3 books that you must bring?

My summer reading doesn’t look much different from any other season. But if I HAD to pick just a few favorites they would be:

To Kill a Mockingbird (Have I mentioned how swoon-worthy Atticus is?)

The Catcher in the Rye (Yes, I love me some whiny teenage Holden)

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn

(This list is subject to change on a daily basis)

Are you an e-book or tree book lover? Or does it not matter? 

I think I’ll always like tree books better. With that said, I’m glad that I have a Kindle. I held out on buying one  for a long time with some misguided idea of SAVING REAL BOOKS.

How do you find other blogs to read? Recommendations of other bloggers? 

When I first started blogging I had a heck of a time finding bloggers with the same reading tastes and sensibilities as mine. I thought for sure that YA book blogs were the only ones that existed! They aren’t my thing. (No hate mail, please!) I finally found a few that I loved and then stalked their blogrolls like a crazy lady. Since then I’ve found the best blogs in the land. I don’t want to name favorites though, that’s like naming my favorite child! BAD IDEA.

Jen H @ The Relentless Reader: Blog, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest.