Featured Blogger: Dinara Tengri

Today please welcome Dinara, who blogs at Dinara Tengri.

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What's the meaning behind the name of your book blog?

It's just my name. I wanted to keep it as simple as possible.

How long have you been blogging?

A couple of weeks. This is my second book blog. Last year I blogged for a few months.

Tell us a bit about your book blog. What makes it unique?

It's a blog where I get to write about books I read. It's very simple. And very personal, and I am very honest in my reviews.

What genres do you write about most, and why?

I love science fiction. I also enjoy fantasy and historical books (non-fiction, that is), and scentfic books (Stephen Hawking, Brian Greene etc)

Every blogger feels pressure at some point. What's something you feel pressured to do or not do on your blog? How do you deal with it?

Sometimes I feel like I should adopt a certain writing style. I read other blogs and I think they do it better than me, and that I should write like them. I know from experience that this sort of thing never works, so I try to write as simple and honest as possible.

What's one book you think everyone should read?

The book I've recently reviewed, Voices from Chernobyl, by Svetlana Alexievich.

Writing in books: Yes or hell to the no?

You mean like leaving notes? Hell to the no :)

What's your favorite place to read or blog?

In my office. And by "office" I mean "my room".

Is Amazon.com the evil empire? Discuss.

I want to say yes. But I have no personal experience with them. Yet. So I'll wait with that one.

Book shelfie time! Take a "shelfie" of your bookshelves and share it with us.

So these four shelves are fiction only.

One book you like that no one else seems to, or vice versa?

Most people are in love with Moby Dick. I hated it.

To DNF or not to DNF?

DNF. But only on occasion.

What's one book that intimidates you?

I don't think I've read a book that would have this effect on me.

If you could go to any literary destination, where would you go?

Ray Bradbury's Mars. It's a magical place.

How about non-book related hobbies? What do you do when you don't feel like reading?

I recently picked up knitting. I also dance, and put together furniture from IKEA.

What's your favorite book to movie adaptation?

Favorite: The Martian
Least favorite: The Shining

What are 3 favorite posts or reviews you've read by other book bloggers?

• A Thousand Nights
• David Duchovny - Holy Cow
• it turns out that I can kinda deal with romance. occasionally.

What is your reading personality? (via quiz at http://www.bookbrowse.com/quiz/)

I'm a quiet reader. But I have an opinion on everything I read.

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Thank you for joining us today, Dinara! Remember to check out Dinara's blog and leave a comment or question.

Featured Blogger: Arabella of The Genteel Arsenal

Today please welcome Arabella, who blogs at The Genteel Arsenal.

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What's the meaning behind the name of your book blog?

The blog title came about because I liked the Dr Who quote about libraries being the greatest arsenal you could ever have and another quote from Terry Pratchett about bookshops being like genteel blackholes that know how to read. I think of libraries as being genteel arsenals, that arm readers against all the challenges life can throw at them.

How long have you been blogging?

Since 2009, maybe earlier, I have changed platforms since starting and I am no longer really sure when I started, it may have been 2008.

Tell us a bit about your book blog. What makes it unique?

It is unique because it is my opinion and my reaction to what I read. I guess it is also a bit eclectic, my interests are really broad ranging and sometimes I blog about books related to work. I am just really curious, so read a lot, any genre or any topic.

What genres do you write about most, and why?

Mostly contemporary literary fiction, with some classics and non fiction. The non fiction is mainly history or natural history but it could be anything really. When I am working in young adult libraries I read and review YA and kids literature but YA becomes sporadic when not employed in those environments. I also read the occasional steampunk and crime but my taste in crime tends towards the quirky, authors like Christopher Fowler or Ben Aaronovitch.

Every blogger feels pressure at some point. What's something you feel pressured to do or not do on your blog? How do you deal with it?

I feel some pressure to respond to comments but I do try and make a point of finding time to respond and to visit other blogs and leave comments although sometimes I just like to visit blogs and not feel I have to comment.

What's one book you think everyone should read?

That's hard but for girls I think Jane Eyre is a must read.

Writing in books: Yes or hell to the no?

Definitely yes, only in books you own, although I rarely do it myself I do sometimes underline and occasionally make a personal observation. I really love some of my second hand editions where previous owners have made their own observations and responses, for me they add to the character and appeal of the book. I also feel that it is wrong to fetishize books and get all precious over keeping them pristine. While I feel it is right to value and look after books I also feel there is nothing wrong with showing your love by interacting with the text and wear and tear that goes with reading a text over and over again. A paperback can be replaced, it is not a medieval manuscript.

What's your favorite place to read or blog?

In my library at home or sitting in a cosy coffee shop.

Is Amazon.com the evil empire? Discuss.

Yes I suspect Amazon is the evil empire for a number of reasons, just one big one is the monopoly they seem to have built with buying up other retailers and the fact that their pricing has damaged the smaller bricks and mortar independents, some of whom provide amazing service and product knowledge that will be really missed if it disappears. I personally make a point of supporting good independents but that is not to say that I don't buy online, I do but I tend to support smaller online providers.

What have you learned from other bloggers or your readers?

I have learnt not to be afraid of being myself and saying what I think.

Do you judge a book by its cover, or its lover?

Both, I guess. But don't you just hate it when you buy a book for the cover and what is between the covers actually disappoints?

To DNF or not to DNF?

In theory I believe life is too short for bad books, in reality I find it very hard to give up on a book.

What's one book that intimidates you?

James Joyce Ulysses and I feel bad for never being brave enough to start it. 

If you could go to any literary destination, where would you go?

Northern England, Haworth and the Yorkshire moors of the Bronte sisters. I have visited once before but would go again if opportunity arose. I would also love to visit Whitby, made famous as the landing place of Dracula.

What's your favorite book to movie adaptation?

Rarely does a movie do justice to a book but I think Emma Thompson's adaptation of Sense and Sensibility was just brilliant.

What is your reading personality? (via quiz at http://www.bookbrowse.com/quiz/)

Not surprisingly this was the result:
The Eclectic Reader

You read for entertainment but also to expand your mind. You're open to new ideas and new writers, and are not wedded to a particular genre or limited range of authors. 

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Thank you for joining us today, Arabella! 

Remember to check out Arabella's blog, The Genteel Arsenal, 

and leave a comment or question.

Featured #Bookstagrammer Jennifer, aka @TheRelentlessReader!

Please welcome Jennifer, who blogs regularly at The Relentless Reader and also lights up Instagram with awesome food and book pics as @therelentlessreader. Find out more about Jennifer and her IG pet peeves below!

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Tell us about yourself! Where do you work/play? What books do you like to read? Do you have any non-bookish hobbies? Any pets? What's your one great ambition?

I live in a small town in Wisconsin and I work at a bookstore in an even smaller neighboring town. I have 3 kids, 1 husband, and an embarrassing number of cats. Outside of books my interests include cooking, cheering on the Green Bay Packers, and trying to wrangle my family for get-togethers. My one great ambition? I'd like to own a bookstore one day.

How did you get started blogging on IG? How long ago?

I was first prodded to join Instagram during Dewey's 24 Hour Readathon. I believe I've been on Instagram for a little over a year.

What do you like about IG in comparison to other platforms or more traditional blogging?

Instagram, to me, is a happy place. There's not the kvetching of Twitter or negativity of Facebook. It's positive, it's bright, it's my happy place. And to be terribly cliched: A picture really can say a 1000 words.

Do you have favorite filters or settings you like to use? Is there a particular reason you use them?

I'm a fan of the filters that add illumination and warmth. Valencia is a particular favorite. I'm also a fan of Juno and Rise.

What are some tips you would give someone who was thinking of joining IG or had just joined?

Poke around (the best way to learn), follow some bookish folks (to see what types of posts you like), take the time to frame a photo nicely. No one wants to see dirty laundry or dishes in the background. Some of my Instagram peeves are blurry photos, too many photos in a row, and excessive hashtag use.

Hashtags: What are some of your favorites? Do you have any "rules" when it comes to using hashtags?

I use the usual suspects: #books #bookstagram #booklove, etc. My rule for hashtags is that I don't use more than 3 at a time. I like the uninterrupted flow of photos on my feed, when I have to scroll for an hour due to hashtags I become a smidge annoyed.

What are some NON-bookish things you love posting?

Anyone who follows me will know my answer to this question. FOOD! I also share photos of my family and our cats.

Selfies: Yes or meh?

I'm a grown ass lady so I take selfies to show off a new haircut or lipstick, not to show off my face. ;)

What are four of your best or favorite photos/videos that you've posted in the past year?

Hanging out at the library this evening #books #booknerd #bookporn #library

A photo posted by Jennifer Hartling (@therelentlessreader) on Apr 28, 2015 at 7:02pm PDT

Frasier, aka Sir Sinks-a-Lot. #cats #catsofinstagram #crazycatlady

A photo posted by Jennifer Hartling (@therelentlessreader) on May 26, 2015 at 11:09am PDT

Day 12 of #31bookpics Books & Nature #autumn #estellagram

A photo posted by Jennifer Hartling (@therelentlessreader) on Oct 12, 2014 at 6:53am PDT

Copycat Twix bars. Ermagherd. #nomnom #chocolate #caramel

A photo posted by Jennifer Hartling (@therelentlessreader) on Jun 9, 2015 at 5:20pm PDT

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Thanks, Jennifer! For more fun, follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Featured #Bookstagrammer Abbigail Kriebs!

Give a warm welcome to Abbigail Kriebs, author, photographer, blogger, and bibliophile! You can find Abbigail on Instagram as @abbigailkriebs.

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Tell us about yourself! Where do you work/play? What books do you like to read? Do you have any non-bookish hobbies? Any pets? What's your one great ambition?

Hi, I'm Abbigail. I'm a Midwestern gal who somehow became a city-dweller in Madison, WI. My day job is in advertising & marketing, but in my spare time you can find me at Inkwells & Images, writing about books, photography, and writing. I love literary fiction - recent swoons include Sea Creatures by Susanna Daniel & The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern. I also love a good love story, anything where the Midwest is a major character, and I admit that every now and again I just want to be entertained. I have a husband and he has two cats, so I guess that means I also have two cats: Zipper and Thumper. Great ambition? I'm slowly, slooooowly writing my first novel. But sometimes, my big ambition is to spend time outside while the sun is still shining. Having a desk job can create some funky ambitious cravings.

How did you get started blogging on IG? How long ago?

I don't blog primarily on IG - I often share photos related to blog posts, or that fill in the gaps between posts on my site. Often, I find IG is the perfect place to spell out a lyrical thought that just doesn't need to be longer than a sentence or two. I started posting on IG in 2013, sharing photos and not realizing then that it would become my favorite platform and where I get so many book and restaurant recommendations.

What do you like about IG in comparison to other platforms or more traditional blogging?

I love that it's quick. And also that it seems to be a collection of the most beautiful images on the web. Scrolling through my feed is a relaxing, enjoyably task - not something that has to be done or that clutters my life.

Do you have favorite filters or settings you like to use? Is there a particular reason you use them?

I adore "crema" - as a photographer, this one feels the closest to capturing light on film. And it also reminds me of coffee, which is kind of a win-win for this coffee-sipping gal.

What are some tips you would give someone who was thinking of joining IG or had just joined?

Do it! It's lovely, first. Second: it's a wonderful place to meet people. Make sure to not only use hashtags but to click on those hashtags and connect with others. I've made actual, in real life friends doing this - and I'm not a super user or anything like that.

Third: don't auto-post all your Instagrams to your other social platforms. From a marketing standpoint, you should treat each platform uniquely and tailor your content its own attributes. If I follow someone on multiple platforms and see the same content over and over again in both places, I will likely unfollow them on one of the platforms. There needs to be an incentive to connect online in multiple places, or we are merely just adding to the internet clutter.

Hashtags: What are some of your favorites? Do you have any "rules" when it comes to using hashtags?

I like to capitalize the words in my hashtags to make them a little easier to follow. This doesn't always happen, of course.

Some favorites: #AmReading #Midwestival #AmWriting #BeMadison #Collaboreating

What are some NON-bookish things you love posting?

Food & travel. I love capturing the simple moments of life - my cats chirping at birds, the ice collecting on the windows in January. The little memories that you would otherwise miss while on vacation.

What are some things that surprised you about IG?

How much I would enjoy following absolute strangers! I'm stalking what they read, watching them raise their children, and even stealing destination ideas from people around the world that I have never and may never meet - and it all feels so personal.

What's one place, person, or thing you think has appeared most often in your photos?

My dining room table. It's a lovely wood grain cut on the diagonal that my husband made, and it makes the perfect backdrop for all sorts of things: fancy cups of coffee, new books, chocolate malted milkshakes. It adds enough interest to be beautiful, but not so much that it distracts from the subject of the photo.

Selfies: Yes or meh?

I am worst selfie taker. I have tried and tried, and they just never turn out. I'm going to blame it on the fact that I am only 5'1" tall, so maybe my arms just aren't long enough to take flattering photos?!?

They say a picture's worth 1000 words. What story does your Instagram feed tell about you? Do you think it's accurate?

Back in 2013 when I had only been on IG for a few months, I wrote a random note in my journal:

The seven photos currently in my Instagram profile accurately describe my life:
quiet country spaces, food, books, baked goods (more food), coffee, stickers, and writing (and more coffee).
I make my picture-taking self proud.

So yes - I think my feed accurately described my life, then and now.

What are some tips you'd give people for photographing their books?

Choose neat backgrounds! Don't always opt for the sky or your lap: look for neat textures, or places that complement the subject of the book. I recently bought two memoirs, both dealing with life spent on farms. The perfect backdrop? Fresh green grass, of course!

If you could add/remove one thing in Instagram, what would it be?

I sometimes wish that hyperlinks worked on the platform - I know they're not working keeps it less cluttered with ads, but at the same time it would be nice to click through to a longer article when a post necessitated it.

How do you integrate IG with your blog? Or do you?

Yes and no. I often post a preview image on IG and then direct people to my blog. Otherwise, I'll use similar hashtags, or end up using photos that I took on Instagram to feature in blogs later on.

Blogging's more fun with friends! Who are three people on IG you think are must-follows?

• @BenjaminHole runs a family farm on the Isle of Purbeck, England, and his photos are phenomenal.
• @JoshuaHaroldson is a freelance photographer in the Midwest and his Instagrams are always stunning.
• @AustinKleon, author & artist, posts blackout poems everyday, and also has book recommendations that are always worth taking.

What are four of your best or favorite photos/videos that you've posted in the past year?

Books to read:

Best way to soothe the ache of a recently tortured pair of eyebrows? A walk down the street to the local bookstore. Excited to dive into these rural-life inspired gems, one by Madison local @graciefoxwell and her dad, the other by the perennially witty @sneezingcow.

A photo posted by Abbigail Kriebs (@abbigailekriebs) on Jun 16, 2015 at 7:30pm PDT

Coffee to drink, words to edit:

Another #slowmorning with the manuscript. #writing #editing #coffee

A photo posted by Abbigail Kriebs (@abbigailekriebs) on Feb 8, 2015 at 4:23am PST

The current bedside stack:

The current stack of new to me books I'm tackling this year. #BookProj2015 #amreading #stacksofbooks #books

A photo posted by Abbigail Kriebs (@abbigailekriebs) on Jan 17, 2015 at 10:29am PST

My husband and I, on a normal night in cold Wisconsin:

Date night footwear in #Wisconsin.

A photo posted by Abbigail Kriebs (@abbigailekriebs) on Jan 15, 2015 at 6:09pm PST

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Thanks for sharing your tips and pics, Abbigail! Be sure to check Abbigail out on Instagram, as well as Twitter @abbigailkriebs.

Featured Blogger: Lory from The Emerald City Book Review

Today please welcome Lory, 

who blogs at The Emerald City Book Review.

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What's the meaning behind the name of your book blog?

Many years ago, when I was teaching elementary school and living in the Seattle area, I produced a few issues of a newsletter about children's books. I called it The Emerald City Book Review, a nod to Seattle's nickname and to my own origins as a reader in the Land of Oz. When I decided to start a book blog, I named it in honor of my original publication (even though it's not exclusively about children's books, and I no longer live in Seattle). I gave it the subtitle "A Reader's Journey" -- because to me reading really is a wonderful adventure.

How long have you been blogging?

Just over a year.

Tell us a bit about your book blog. What makes it unique?

It's completely based on my personal reading tastes, which are rather whimsical and will vary with the season and my mood. I hope that's not too confusing for readers, but I want it to have a personal touch.

What genres do you write about most, and why?

In my first year I wrote a lot of reviews of classic fiction and children's books, but that might change at any moment.

What's one book you think everyone should read?

If I forced everyone to read one book, some of them would hate it and me, which would be very distressing. But I wish more people would try Diana Wynne Jones. She's absolutely brilliant (if you are not allergic to fantasy).

Writing in books: Yes or hell to the no?

I don't write in books any more, though I did plenty of underlining and highlighting when I was in school.

What's your favorite place to read or blog?

Right now (February in New Hampshire), a cozy chair by a roaring fire, or else I'd love to be whisked off to a hammock between two palm trees on a balmy beach.

What have you learned from other bloggers or your readers?

Be honest and true to yourself. Don't be afraid to reach out. If you're not enjoying it, it's not worth it.

Do you judge a book by its cover, or its lover?

Both! I am definitely swayed by appearance and I'm a sucker for beautifully produced books. I also love to discover new books and authors through readers I know and trust. Blogs are great for that.

One book you like that no one else seems to, or vice versa?

The Fault in Our Stars -- I hated the characters, the story, the writing style, the whole terrible pretentious package. I did finish it for some reason, however.

To DNF or not to DNF?

I used to try to finish books that were not working for me, just to give them a chance, but I've decided life is too short for that.

What's one book that intimidates you?

War and Peace.

If you could go to any literary destination, where would you go?

Real: Yorkshire, England
Imaginary: Narnia

How about non-book related hobbies? What do you do when you don't feel like reading?

I sing in a small a capella choir, which at least gets me out of the house once a week. I'm also a spinner and knitter, though I go through definite crafty and non-crafty phases. Cooking and baking are part of my day job, but I enjoy those as well. I also love hiking in the mountains with my husband and son.

What's your favorite book to movie adaptation?

Some of my favorites include The Wizard of Oz, A Room with a View, To Kill a Mockingbird, The Princess Bride, and Much Ado About Nothing.

What are 3 favorite posts or reviews you've read by other book bloggers?

Ten Favorite Illustrators at Behold the Stars
Cover trends at River City Reading
Charlotte vs. Emily debate at Vulpes Libris

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Thank you for joining us today, Lory! Remember to check out Lory's blog, The Emerald City Book Review, and leave a comment or question.

Featured Blogger: Heather from Based on a True Story

Today please welcome Heather, who blogs at Based on a True Story.

What's the meaning behind the name of your book blog?

I tell stories about my life from my perspective. I'm allowed to embellish though.

How long have you been blogging?

Since 2004 and since 2005 on this site.

Tell us a bit about your book blog. What makes it unique?

I review books but my blog isn't limited to that. I quilt. I write weekly fitness reviews. I also talk my family and pets. Sometimes I go off on rants.

What genres do you write about most, and why?

I read everything. Fiction, nonfiction, all genres. I write most often about urban fantasy, historical fiction, and nonfiction. I'm sure there is some deep reason for that but mostly I wish there was magic and I like history. My brain just wants to be entertained.

Writing in books: Yes or hell to the no?

Nope! I get all my books from the library and they frown on that.

What's your favorite place to read or blog?

In bed.

What have you learned from other bloggers or your readers?

I've learned the joys and challenges of tracking what I read. I've been tracking locations of my books for a few years to increase where I read. This year I'm working on reading translations and authors of color.

Do you judge a book by its cover, or its lover?

I'm a sucker for a good cover.

One book you like that no one else seems to, or vice versa?

I hated Catcher in the Rye and Of Mice and Men and Great Expectations.

To DNF or not to DNF?

I ruthlessly DNF. Life's too short to suffer through boring books.

If you could go to any literary destination, where would you go?

I'm actually going to Bath in 2015 because of all the Regency romances I've read.

How about non-book related hobbies? What do you do when you don't feel like reading?

Quilting, vegetarian cooking, walking

Thank you for joining us today, Heather! Remember to check out Heather's blog, Based on a True Story, and leave a comment or question.

Featuring Sarah from Sarah's Book Shelves

Today please welcome Sarah Dickinson, who blogs at Sarah's Book Shelves.

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What's the meaning behind the name of your book blog?

I no longer have "book shelves" in the physical sense. Years ago, my husband decided my volume of books was overwhelming (especially since we lived in a small NYC apartment at the time) and presented me with a deal/threat: "you either buy a Kindle to stop this train or I'm giving away every single book you own".

Obviously, I chose to save my existing book collection by buying the Kindle and it worked because I haven't bought another hard copy book since. My blog is the virtual substitute for my book shelves and is now my "happy place".

How long have you been blogging?

Just over 2 years

Tell us a bit about your book blog. What makes it unique?

I'm coming at this solely as an avid reader. I've never worked in the book business and am not affiliated in any way with publishers, authors, publicists, etc.

My reviews are honest reflections of my opinion of the book and I'm not afraid to post critical reviews. I think differing opinions add to the breadth of the discussion, especially about heavily hyped books. I also think it's important for my blog readers to get a good sense of my taste in books and books I didn't like contribute to that.

I realize this is a controversial issue and the fact that I will post critical reviews does not mean I don't respect or value authors. I have tremendous respect for anyone who is able to publish a book and absolutely believe we, as bloggers/reviewers, have the much easier job. For these reasons, I try to be respectful and very clear about the reasons I didn't like a book. I also believe that reading is a matter of taste and there is room for a variety of opinions.

What genres do you write about most, and why?

I write about what I like to read...which is mostly contemporary fiction, with some general nonfiction, historical fiction, memoirs, sports books, and cooking/food books thrown in.

What was the first book you read over and over, or the book you've reread the most?

Growing up, I loved The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. I remember reading it over and over and being enchanted by the secrets behind that tall gate.

Now that I have my blog, I rarely re-read books because there are so many great books out there that I feel like I'll never get a chance to read them all! But, the two "adult" books I've re-read are The Lords of Discipline by Pat Conroy (because I could read him writing about paint drying) and The Gold Coast by Nelson DeMille (because the main character, John Sutter, is salty and hilarious).

Writing in books: Yes or hell to the no?

Hell to the no! Back when I read actual books (rather than ebooks), I had strict rules for anyone borrowing a book from me: no dog earring, no breaking the spine, no dropping it in the sand (or water), and NO WRITING IN IT!

Now Amazon has thoughtfully allowed me to highlight and make notes without ruining paper books! So, thank you for that!

What's your favorite place to read?

Anywhere I can get a few free minutes! During my kids' nap times, while stretching at the gym, waiting in lines, on trains...but, given the choice, my favorite place to read is on the beach.

Do you have any reading accessories you can't do without?

My Kindle, hands down. I was anti-Kindle for awhile until my husband forced me to buy one to stop my alarmingly growing book collection in its tracks (see the story behind my blog's name). I've never looked back...

Finish the sentence: My bookshelves are...

in an alarming number of packing boxes in my basement. We're in a rental house and I'm waiting until we get somewhere permanent with lots of built-in bookshelves to unpack them. Despite my love for my Kindle, I do still love being surrounded by shelves full of books...and I love nosing around other people's bookshelves. It helps me determine if he/she is a kindred spirit!

My TBR pile is...

actually a spreadsheet, is hundreds (196 to be exact) of books long, and growing every day. I'll never make a dent in it...there are far too many great books out there!

One book you like that no one else seems to, or vice versa?

I didn't like The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarty and it seems the rest of the world did! The main character (Cecilia) is one of those mothers that terrify me and it annoyed me to be in her head for 400 pages.

To DNF or not to DNF?

Depends on the book, but usually I finish. I will especially finish a book if it's popular, even if I don't like it. I want to be able to write about it and add a differing opinion to the discussion.

If you could go to any literary destination, where would you go?

Panem from The Hunger Games out of curiosity to experience the crazy world Suzanne Collins created. And, West Egg from The Great Gatsby for the luxury and mystique.

How about non-book related hobbies? What do you do when you don't feel like reading?

I spend most of my time taking care of my three year old son and one year old daughter, but when I have some free time I love running, playing tennis, going to the beach, cooking (and eating!), and the Summer Olympics.

What's your favorite book to movie adaptation?

I'm one of those people that thinks the book is always better than the movie.

But, the TV show adaptation of Friday Night Lights (based on the book by H.G. Bissinger and the subsequent movie adaptation) blew away the book and the movie. In my opinion, it's the best show that's ever been on television and the most realistic portrayal of high school and marriage I've ever seen. And, don't get me started on Tim Riggins (and, Coach Taylor, for that matter)!

Clear eyes, full hearts, can't lose!

What are 3 of your must-read blogs?

• River City Reading
• The Novel Life
• Words for Worms

What is your reading personality? (via quiz at http://www.bookbrowse.com/quiz/)

The All-Rounder



Thank you for joining us today, Sarah! Remember to check out Sarah's blog, Sarah's Book Shelves, and leave a comment or question.

Featuring Kim of Sophisticated Dorkiness

Today please welcome Kim, 

who blogs at Sophisticated Dorkiness.

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What's the meaning behind the name of your book blog?

The name of my blog, Sophisticated Dorkiness, comes from a conversation I had with a friend in college. This friend had really good taste in music compared to my, comparably, dorky favorites. He told me that it's ok to have dorky tastes in some areas as long as you can be sophisticated in others. I like to think of "sophisticated dorkiness" as loving both high-brow and low-brow things and not being ashamed of either. 

How long have you been blogging?

I've been blogging for six years, since May 2008. 

Tell us a bit about your book blog. What makes it unique?

Even though I love to read a variety of genres, my blog has become known for reviews and writing about nonfiction. I love having that niche because it helps me focus on what books to write about and on what books to accept for review.

I recently started a feature called the Nonfiction Recommendation Engine where I offer personalized recommendations to readers. I think that feature has been really popular. 

What genres do you write about most, and why?

I write primarily about nonfiction, but I also love to do reviews of graphic novels, audio books, and literary fiction. 

What's your earliest memory of reading?

I've always been a fast reader, so when I was a kid I used to check out huge stacks of books from the library. Eventually, I started picking out books based on how fat they were. That's how I ended up reading Little Women when I was very young and all of the Michael Crichton books when I was in middle school. 

What was the first book you read over and over, or the book you've reread the most?

I've read Frankenstein four or five times for different classes in high school and college. 

Writing in books: Yes or hell to the no?

Depends? I use to write in books in college all the time, but I do it less now... I'm not sure why. I love seeing my marginalia in old books, so maybe I should start again!

What's your favorite place to read?

If it's nice, I love to be outside with a book. Otherwise, I love curling up on my couch with a mug of tea and my cat, Hannah. 

Do you have any reading accessories you can't do without?

I tend to take notes in a Google Doc that I access with my cell phone, but if that's not available scribble on the Post-It note I'm using for a bookmark. 

Finish the sentence: My bookshelves are...

very full, but very specifically organized. 

My TBR pile is...

out of control!

What's a book that's changed your life?

The book that made me finally understand how amazing, deep and complicated that literature could be was Heart of Darkness, which I read for the first time when I was a junior in high school. 

One book you like that no one else seems to, or vice versa?

I have a soft spot for Robinson Crusoe by Daniel DeFoe. It's not very good and really weird, but I spent a lot of time picking it apart for my senior paper in college and so it's weirdness has endeared it to me. 

To DNF or not to DNF?

I'm coming around to Camp DNF, but it's been a slow transition. 

What's one book that intimidates you?

I don't have a specific book, but two authors who scare me a bit are Haruki Murakami and Toni Morrison. I think I'm worried I won't be smart enough to "get" their writing. 

If you could go to any literary destination, where would you go?

Hogwarts!

How about non-book related hobbies? What do you do when you don't feel like reading?

I try to do some crafting -- cross stitch and crocheting -- and cooking when I have time. I also like to watch television. 

What's your favorite book to movie adaptation?

I hated the adaptation of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. I thought it was really awful. 

What are 3 of your must-read blogs?

The 3R's Blog
Write Meg!
Estella's Revenge

What is your reading personality? (via quiz at http://www.bookbrowse.com/quiz/)

The Exacting Eclectic Reader

Your responses showed you fitting into two different groups - the exacting reader and the eclectic reader.

The expression 'so many books, so little time!' sums up your life. You love books but you rarely have as much time to read as you'd like - so you're very particular about the books you choose.

You read for entertainment but also to expand your mind. You're open to new ideas and new writers, and are not wedded to a particular genre or limited range of authors.

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Thank you for joining us today, Kim! 

Remember to check out Kim's blog, Sophisticated Dorkiness, 

and leave a comment or question.

Featuring Allison of The Book Wheel

Today please welcome Allison, 

who blogs at The Book Wheel.

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What's the meaning behind the name of your book blog?

I named my blog The Book Wheel for so many reasons! Wheels never end and revolve. My love for books is constant, never ending, and my entire world revolves around books. Or, you could say that books make the world go ’round. Or, that books make MY world go ’round. Or, that the wheel of invention is dependent on books. Or, that books propel us forward. Or, that knowledge depends on a never ending supply of information. Or, that books provide never ending knowledge. Or, that the supply of books is never ending. Like I said, there are a lot of reasons! 

How long have you been blogging?

Officially? Since July 2012.

Tell us a bit about your book blog. What makes it unique?

The Book Wheel is an independent review site for the everyday reader. I focus primarily on literary fiction and political non-fiction. What makes it unique is that I have a weekly news roundup and a live chat bar that users can use to connect with each other.

What genres do you write about most, and why?

Mostly literary fiction and political non-fiction. Literary fiction because I love the genre and can easily fall in love with a book that fits within it, and political non-fiction because I'm in grad school for public policy and love politics!

What's your earliest memory of reading?

According to my parents, I've been reading since I was three. I was Mother Goose at my preschool graduation because I was the only one who could read the script. My first memory that's my own, however, is reading Charlotte's Web in one sitting when I was six. I will never forget how accomplished I felt! 

What was the first book you read over and over, or the book you've reread the most?

Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls. I read it for the first time when I was 10 and reread it every summer. I cry every time and I'm pretty sure it's the reason I have two dogs.

Writing in books: Yes or hell to the no?

No! Unless, of course, it's an overpriced textbook. I'm okay with writing notes in the front if you're giving it as a gift, but definitely not within the story itself. Although, I used to circle the spelling errors and send them to the publisher, so I suppose that's okay.

What's your favorite place to read?

I have this fantastic, 4-feet wide round chair that I call my reading chair. It's in my library, right by the fireplace, and it's the perfect place to cozy up with a book.

Update: Awesome Reading Chair Alison Has! 

Do you have any reading accessories you can't do without?

Other than my Kindle? I have this awesome lap pillow that folds out three different ways and is perfect for holding my book, no matter what position I'm in. 

Finish the sentence: My bookshelves are...

All over the house.

My TBR pile is...

Entirely too long.

What's a book that's changed your life?

Other than Where the Red Fern Grows? Probably Good Without God: What a Billion Nonreligious People Do Believe by Greg Epstein. I read it a while ago and a lot of what he said has stuck with me. It's a great book for those who aren't religious, but it doesn't have any of the anti-religion aspects that a lot of those types of books have.

One book you like that no one else seems to, or vice versa?

I really enjoyed Atlas Shrugged. I think it's a great story and one that everyone should read, regardless of whether they agree with Ayn Rand or not! As for what book everyone else likes..... I have so many. I couldn't get into Tenth of December, The Luminaries, The Help, The Book Thief, or Room.

To DNF or not to DNF?

DNF! There are too many great books out there to waste time reading ones you don't like. If I'm not hooked by 75 pages, I put it down.

What's one book that intimidates you?

Anna Karenina is one. Come to think of it, anything by Tolstoy intimidates me! 

If you could go to any literary destination, where would you go?

Definitely F. Scott Fitzgerald’s birthplace in St. Paul, MN.

How about non-book related hobbies? What do you do when you don't feel like reading?

There are other hobbies? I'm currently in grad school, so free time is pretty precious. I'm hooked on Law & Order: SVU and drink enough coffee to call it a hobby. If I make it out of the house, it's to wander aimlessly through the Rockies.

What's your favorite book to movie adaptation?

Honestly, I stay away from adaptations. I saw the Harry Potter movies years after they came out and enjoyed them, but chances are if I loved a book I won't see the movie.

What are 3 of your must-read blogs?

Love At First Book
Bookalicious Mama
Books Speak Volumes

What is your reading personality? (via quiz at http://www.bookbrowse.com/quiz/)

The Eclectic Reader

You read for entertainment but also to expand your mind. You're open to new ideas and new writers, and are not wedded to a particular genre or limited range of authors.

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Thank you for joining us today, Allison! 

Remember to check out Allison's blog, The Book Wheel, 

and leave a comment or question.