Salaam Alaikum and Hello,
I'm always up for trying new things. At least that's what I say to myself and others. But when it comes to books, I have to admit I am a bit stubborn. I don't know why, I just am. But I have to admit that this year trying new books, and genre has paid off big time. I haven't had not one reading slump this year, (knock on wood), and my reading has gone thought the roof. My family and bank account may say different, but to me that's FANTASTIC! Between the addition of YA and Manga I am in reading heaven.I never thought angles would be interesting, but they really are; and, I sometime dream about being in the places of the girls I read about.Granted, the first thing I would set straight are the silly little love triangles.But through my new reading journeys I have gotten back my imagination station.My books are taking me away, relaxing me, resting me. They are doing what books are meant to do- entertain. I still read my historical non-fiction- I don't think I'll ever stop wanting to learn.But books are becoming my entertainment of choice.Im still trying to figure out how am I going to fit in Downton Abbey, Game of Thrones, and this fall TV line-up of my favorite shows.These days I would just rather read than state at a screen.Give me a book and my cellphone and I am good to go.I can read and tweet my reading is sheer bliss. I haven't been on my desktop in months and my iPad looks brand new.I only use it to vlog, blog, and update my GR.Oh yeah, and to pay bills. But other than that you are more likely to see the top of my head, my nose in a book.
Of course, I have my family to take care of, but Im never just lounging on the sofa or outside 'sans une livre'. I can thank books for one thing.At a time when communication should be breaking down between my teenage son, it's gotten better. We scour the book websites and store for books together, discussing plots, and characters.My son has shown me he has good tastes on books, and I am showing him that I still know the meaning of fun. He is by no means a book rat like myself-yet- but he knows the excitement of a good book. He even surprises me.Like when I caught him still awake at 4 am- READING!!
The most awesome news is that since starting my GR account on May the 8th, I have read 50 books. I'm upping my goal to 100. I plan on participating in as many read-a-thons as possible to help me, and just reading books that I like. I really do enjoy read-a-thons.Great books, and great people. Guaranteed good times. My house is transforming- bookshelves being put up wherever there is wall space.Books with beautiful covers wrapped in plastic so that they can be read as many times as possible and still attract the eye of my up and coming readers. It's great.
So I going to stick to the new bookish me. Who knows, maybe this time next year I be blogging about how great beach reads are.Its a stretch, but then again so is everything I've been reading this year.
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Monday, July 29, 2013
Nerdy Niqabi: Bout of books 8.0
Nerdy Niqabi: Bout of books 8.0: The Bout of Books read-a-thon is organized by Amanda @ On a Book Bender and Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal. It is a week long read-a-thon ...
Bout of books 8.0
The Bout of Books read-a-thon is organized by Amanda @ On a Book Bender and Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal. It is a week long read-a-thon that begins 12:01am Monday, August 19th and runs through Sunday, August 25th in whatever time zone you are in. Bout of Books is low-pressure, and the only reading competition is between you and your usual number of books read in a week. There are challenges, giveaways, and a grand prize, but all of these are completely optional. For all Bout of Books 8.0 information and updates, be sure to visit the Bout of Books blog. - From the Bout of Books team
I'm all in.I love read-a-thins, and the BoB has a special bookmark in my heart.So if you love books and you want to spend a week with others who share the same love participate:)
https://twitter.com/boutofbooks
https://twitter.com/boutofbooks
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
The Power Of Books
Salaam Alaikum,
If you do not know by now I love books. I love reading, I love seeing what books people are buying, reading, not reading- everything and anything bookish. What started out as an effort for my children has become one of my favorite pastimes. I was never interested in YA.I was mainly buying it for my teenage son. But I got the idea in my head that soon my daughter would be a teenager, and since she was a bookworm she would need lots of good books to read. And I, who carefully screens everything that my kids are exposed to, decided that I would build a library. A library filled with books that I have already read and approved as safe.One little push from my dear sister Farrah and I was hooked on YA with the Infernal Devices series by Cassandra Clare.It was her reccomending The Clockwork Prince that started it all.After that series- which I devoured in three days- I was buying whole series at a time and reading more than I ever had before.
As a young girl I did not read a lot of books aimed at my age group. There was The Baby-Sitter's Club, Sweet ValleyHigh, V.C. Andrews- I read those too-but was really interested in European history. More accurately, stories of royalty.The painful and dangerous process of becoming a princess, murderous royalty, aristocratic scandals. The Russians are my favorites with England coming in at a very close second.I still remembered the time when I came to realize that all European royalty were related, and that the lunacy I poured over night after night was a product of intentional inbreeding.I still cannot look at Queen Elizabeth without thinking that she is married to her cousin.
I still read what I grew up on, but I have branched out in a most delicious way.In some respects I am returning to my childhood through books.On many a night you will find me in bed at 4 am with a book.Before I was hiding under the sheets with a flashlight. Now I can read freely and out in the open.Although I do admit to hiding every once in a while from my husband who just doesn't see how anyone could give up sleep for a book.But I happily cook for him during the World Cup no matter the hour so he doesn't overly hound me.(Last World Cup I was sometimes cooking at 3 am. and I will be doing the same if necessary next year.)
My library is awesome and I actually smile when I look at it. All those stories at my fingertips is just wonderful.And yes I have a never ending TBR. What started out as a stack is now a five shelf ordeal.But every book on it is there waiting to be read, not forgotten but in line. I must say that I have yet to meet a YA that I do not like. The stories are not life changing, but that is because of my age.The genre is meant for an age group that I have long since left.The problems already hashed out and dealt with.But they are none the less entertaining.And I do have to remind myself ever so often that the characters are 14-19 so love triangles, although frustrating to me, are still problems for this age group.I just with that authors would tone it down a bit. Not every teen is having to decide Edward or Jacob.The love triangle is just such an overused item in YA, and sometimes It ruin a story for me.I think,"Man. That was a great story, but the love triangle could have been replaced with more world building or deepening just one love interest. But alas they a books for kids who are indecisive and confused about everything. I will not let love triangle put me off.
My books are my Calgon. They take me away to times and places where dirty diapers, laundry, and dusting dare not follow. I love my family, but I need my breaks.There is no shame in it. I do include my family.We talk about what we are reading, and I am currently discussing with my son the possibility of my taking up Manga. Deathnote is what I have in mind.
So books are it for me. I make no excuses, I make no apologies. It's another bond between my children and me.It is a way to travel to distant lands, and worlds.And it is one of the few things about me that remains constant as I aged, got married, and started having children.And I hope it is one of the things that my children remember.So that when they are off doing their own thing in the world and where are separated by miles, or I am long gone they will know where they can find me-where I always am when someone asks, "Where's your mom?" With the books I hope they answer.She is always with the books.
If you do not know by now I love books. I love reading, I love seeing what books people are buying, reading, not reading- everything and anything bookish. What started out as an effort for my children has become one of my favorite pastimes. I was never interested in YA.I was mainly buying it for my teenage son. But I got the idea in my head that soon my daughter would be a teenager, and since she was a bookworm she would need lots of good books to read. And I, who carefully screens everything that my kids are exposed to, decided that I would build a library. A library filled with books that I have already read and approved as safe.One little push from my dear sister Farrah and I was hooked on YA with the Infernal Devices series by Cassandra Clare.It was her reccomending The Clockwork Prince that started it all.After that series- which I devoured in three days- I was buying whole series at a time and reading more than I ever had before.
As a young girl I did not read a lot of books aimed at my age group. There was The Baby-Sitter's Club, Sweet ValleyHigh, V.C. Andrews- I read those too-but was really interested in European history. More accurately, stories of royalty.The painful and dangerous process of becoming a princess, murderous royalty, aristocratic scandals. The Russians are my favorites with England coming in at a very close second.I still remembered the time when I came to realize that all European royalty were related, and that the lunacy I poured over night after night was a product of intentional inbreeding.I still cannot look at Queen Elizabeth without thinking that she is married to her cousin.
I still read what I grew up on, but I have branched out in a most delicious way.In some respects I am returning to my childhood through books.On many a night you will find me in bed at 4 am with a book.Before I was hiding under the sheets with a flashlight. Now I can read freely and out in the open.Although I do admit to hiding every once in a while from my husband who just doesn't see how anyone could give up sleep for a book.But I happily cook for him during the World Cup no matter the hour so he doesn't overly hound me.(Last World Cup I was sometimes cooking at 3 am. and I will be doing the same if necessary next year.)
My library is awesome and I actually smile when I look at it. All those stories at my fingertips is just wonderful.And yes I have a never ending TBR. What started out as a stack is now a five shelf ordeal.But every book on it is there waiting to be read, not forgotten but in line. I must say that I have yet to meet a YA that I do not like. The stories are not life changing, but that is because of my age.The genre is meant for an age group that I have long since left.The problems already hashed out and dealt with.But they are none the less entertaining.And I do have to remind myself ever so often that the characters are 14-19 so love triangles, although frustrating to me, are still problems for this age group.I just with that authors would tone it down a bit. Not every teen is having to decide Edward or Jacob.The love triangle is just such an overused item in YA, and sometimes It ruin a story for me.I think,"Man. That was a great story, but the love triangle could have been replaced with more world building or deepening just one love interest. But alas they a books for kids who are indecisive and confused about everything. I will not let love triangle put me off.
My books are my Calgon. They take me away to times and places where dirty diapers, laundry, and dusting dare not follow. I love my family, but I need my breaks.There is no shame in it. I do include my family.We talk about what we are reading, and I am currently discussing with my son the possibility of my taking up Manga. Deathnote is what I have in mind.
So books are it for me. I make no excuses, I make no apologies. It's another bond between my children and me.It is a way to travel to distant lands, and worlds.And it is one of the few things about me that remains constant as I aged, got married, and started having children.And I hope it is one of the things that my children remember.So that when they are off doing their own thing in the world and where are separated by miles, or I am long gone they will know where they can find me-where I always am when someone asks, "Where's your mom?" With the books I hope they answer.She is always with the books.
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
I'm Still Here
Salaam Alaikum,
I am still here.I have just been on a reading bender,(I'm still on it in fact),and books and family has kept me away.As well it should.But my goal this last half of the year is to blog regularly.I just have yet to decide what that means.I am definitely going to write about the books I read.There will be spoilers, but not like a retelling of the story.Just how I feel, characters that I like/dislike, and things like that.Not to mention written rants on family life.I have all three kids for the summer and my quiet tranquil 7:30-3 is gone until the end of August
So what's up with me? Taking care of the family, and book reading and buying.I have a Facebook for family, a Twitter, I vlog on YT.Just search for NerdyNiqabi and you will find me.Why all of this, all of a sudden? Friends. I am alone. Not all alone. I do have my family and a few friends, but I am starting to feel cut off from the world.Social networks are filling the void I feel. I am not the most proficient with the Internet-I am downright handicapped.I just feel that as long as I am putting my thoughts and voice out I am part of the group. I am happy when I get questions and comments from others. I'm not looking to be popular. I just want to participate. And I have met some awesome people so far.
The books- oh my, the books.I am loving the YA.I still read other genre.A good book is a good book.But I find a joy in YA, a simplicity and innocence. The love triangles can be infuriating, but I understand that the characters are teenagers and so love triangles are par for the course, (I hope I am using this phrase correctly). But it's so good. I am reading books that I never thought I would like. I started a Goodreads and none of the books on my list match what I am reading. My list is majority Historical fiction/non-fiction. that was what I was reading the most of when I started the account. However, my reading, rating, and reviews have all been on YA books with a pinch of the historical. But it's all good.
So that is a quick blurb on my end.Whoever reads this, thank you for taking your time.I will be posting as often as possible catching up on writing review for the books I've been reading.I read three this week so I need to get on it. Until then,Asalaamu Alaikum:)
I am still here.I have just been on a reading bender,(I'm still on it in fact),and books and family has kept me away.As well it should.But my goal this last half of the year is to blog regularly.I just have yet to decide what that means.I am definitely going to write about the books I read.There will be spoilers, but not like a retelling of the story.Just how I feel, characters that I like/dislike, and things like that.Not to mention written rants on family life.I have all three kids for the summer and my quiet tranquil 7:30-3 is gone until the end of August
So what's up with me? Taking care of the family, and book reading and buying.I have a Facebook for family, a Twitter, I vlog on YT.Just search for NerdyNiqabi and you will find me.Why all of this, all of a sudden? Friends. I am alone. Not all alone. I do have my family and a few friends, but I am starting to feel cut off from the world.Social networks are filling the void I feel. I am not the most proficient with the Internet-I am downright handicapped.I just feel that as long as I am putting my thoughts and voice out I am part of the group. I am happy when I get questions and comments from others. I'm not looking to be popular. I just want to participate. And I have met some awesome people so far.
The books- oh my, the books.I am loving the YA.I still read other genre.A good book is a good book.But I find a joy in YA, a simplicity and innocence. The love triangles can be infuriating, but I understand that the characters are teenagers and so love triangles are par for the course, (I hope I am using this phrase correctly). But it's so good. I am reading books that I never thought I would like. I started a Goodreads and none of the books on my list match what I am reading. My list is majority Historical fiction/non-fiction. that was what I was reading the most of when I started the account. However, my reading, rating, and reviews have all been on YA books with a pinch of the historical. But it's all good.
So that is a quick blurb on my end.Whoever reads this, thank you for taking your time.I will be posting as often as possible catching up on writing review for the books I've been reading.I read three this week so I need to get on it. Until then,Asalaamu Alaikum:)
Thursday, May 23, 2013
Books On the Brain
Salaams and Hello,
I'm back and in full force.I was always an avid reader, but it seems that lately I've taken reading to new heights.Maybe it's because I've been introduced to YA. Who would have thought that fairy-tale retellings, love triangles, witches,warlocks,and magic would grab me by the boo-boo like it has.I didn't see it coming.Now I am all about the series, the trilogy,and companion book.IT'S GREAT!
I have to say, I was getting tired of TV-and the computer as well. Books just seemed like a logical choice.So I vowed to unplug myself and return to my nerdy ways.
Now Im not saying that book readers are nerds.Im just a nerd who happens to be infatuated with books.Its no ordinary infatuation,but a deep rooted adoration which causes me to return daily to bookstores,to beat myself up when I forgo buying a book, and to buy entire series based on the synopsis of the first book. I love my books.I drool over book covers, I wrap them before I read them, I put them on display.Nothing makes me feel like my bookcase does.
I know it sounds weird but my books bring me great satisfaction. My library will probably be one of the best things I give to my children.My mother gave me my love of books.If it hadn't been for her and her Romance novels I wouldn't have found out that Romance was not for me.After my first attempt at reading one of her books in secret I went off I search of books that I did like.Soon I was devouring Judy Blume, Beverly Cleary, and soon afterwards Shakespeare and V.C Andrews. Then in my Middle to High school years I found historical non-fiction, and fiction.Even now I can not get enough of royalty.
And now it's YA. Im 35 so YA can get frustrating.I have to remind myself sometimes that the characters are under 20 so the things that I find ridiculous is just me showing my age.But I like YA and its has gained it's own bookshelf in my library. My hope is that my kids will read these books that I have so lovingly chosen.That is part of the reason that I picked them.But while they wait for my children there is no reason why I can't enjoy them right?
I'm back and in full force.I was always an avid reader, but it seems that lately I've taken reading to new heights.Maybe it's because I've been introduced to YA. Who would have thought that fairy-tale retellings, love triangles, witches,warlocks,and magic would grab me by the boo-boo like it has.I didn't see it coming.Now I am all about the series, the trilogy,and companion book.IT'S GREAT!
I have to say, I was getting tired of TV-and the computer as well. Books just seemed like a logical choice.So I vowed to unplug myself and return to my nerdy ways.
Now Im not saying that book readers are nerds.Im just a nerd who happens to be infatuated with books.Its no ordinary infatuation,but a deep rooted adoration which causes me to return daily to bookstores,to beat myself up when I forgo buying a book, and to buy entire series based on the synopsis of the first book. I love my books.I drool over book covers, I wrap them before I read them, I put them on display.Nothing makes me feel like my bookcase does.
I know it sounds weird but my books bring me great satisfaction. My library will probably be one of the best things I give to my children.My mother gave me my love of books.If it hadn't been for her and her Romance novels I wouldn't have found out that Romance was not for me.After my first attempt at reading one of her books in secret I went off I search of books that I did like.Soon I was devouring Judy Blume, Beverly Cleary, and soon afterwards Shakespeare and V.C Andrews. Then in my Middle to High school years I found historical non-fiction, and fiction.Even now I can not get enough of royalty.
And now it's YA. Im 35 so YA can get frustrating.I have to remind myself sometimes that the characters are under 20 so the things that I find ridiculous is just me showing my age.But I like YA and its has gained it's own bookshelf in my library. My hope is that my kids will read these books that I have so lovingly chosen.That is part of the reason that I picked them.But while they wait for my children there is no reason why I can't enjoy them right?
Monday, May 20, 2013
SUNDAY PROGRESS(5/19) and WRAP UP
BOOKS READ:4
Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo
The Twentieth Wife by Indu Sandaresan
The Oracle Glass by Judith Merkle Riley
A Series of Unfortunate Events(#1) by Lemony Snicket
Salaam Alaikum and Hello,
This was a great week.I learned a lot of new things about myself and I met many new people.I learned about many new books out there that I am planning on reading very soon.And I have to say that it is nice to see that I am not the only person with an obsession for books.
My goal of four books was not really a goal.To be honest I normally read read books a week anyway.I just wanted to be part of something good,and fun.It was cool knowing that there were a bunch of people reading a lot of books at the same time as I was.So I only read four when others read six or eight.Some kept a page count, I did not.None of that mattered to me and I did not feel in competition.I just hoped that someone else knew that I was reading with them- the I was part of their literary community and they are a part of mine.I now have a TBR bookshelf.Yes, you read right- a BOOKSHELF! All titles of fellow participants,(book-tubers,bloggers,both),that I am chomping at the bit to read.
So a big thank you to the organizers of the BoutofbooksBooks read-a-thon.It was a lot of fun and I cannot wait for the next one.Count me in ladies!!!!
Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo
The Twentieth Wife by Indu Sandaresan
The Oracle Glass by Judith Merkle Riley
A Series of Unfortunate Events(#1) by Lemony Snicket
Salaam Alaikum and Hello,
This was a great week.I learned a lot of new things about myself and I met many new people.I learned about many new books out there that I am planning on reading very soon.And I have to say that it is nice to see that I am not the only person with an obsession for books.
My goal of four books was not really a goal.To be honest I normally read read books a week anyway.I just wanted to be part of something good,and fun.It was cool knowing that there were a bunch of people reading a lot of books at the same time as I was.So I only read four when others read six or eight.Some kept a page count, I did not.None of that mattered to me and I did not feel in competition.I just hoped that someone else knew that I was reading with them- the I was part of their literary community and they are a part of mine.I now have a TBR bookshelf.Yes, you read right- a BOOKSHELF! All titles of fellow participants,(book-tubers,bloggers,both),that I am chomping at the bit to read.
So a big thank you to the organizers of the BoutofbooksBooks read-a-thon.It was a lot of fun and I cannot wait for the next one.Count me in ladies!!!!
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