Standalone
Unabridged
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Published: 9/16/14
Narrator: Julia Whelan, Jesse Bernstein
Length: 12 hrs. 57 min.
Source: Sync Audiobook

Jude and her twin brother, Noah, are incredibly close. At thirteen, isolated Noah draws constantly and is falling in love with the charismatic boy next door, while daredevil Jude cliff-dives and wears red-red lipstick and does the talking for both of them. But three years later, Jude and Noah are barely speaking. Something has happened to wreck the twins in different and dramatic ways... until Jude meets a cocky, broken, beautiful boy, as well as someone else—an even more unpredictable new force in her life. The early years are Noah’s story to tell. The later years are Jude’s. What the twins don’t realize is that they each have only half the story, and if they could just find their way back to one another, they’d have a chance to remake their world. 

This radiant novel from the acclaimed, award-winning author of The Sky Is Everywhere will leave you breathless and teary and laughing—often all at once.

My thoughts:

I have been wanting to read this for quite a while and I had gotten the audiobook from Sync a couple of years ago but never tried it. I'm sorry I waited. Like so many, I found myself engrossed in what happened to the two twins and everyone who surrounds them.

I did take 1/2 a star off for the beginning. It was slow and I wasn't sure I really wanted to get into it, but by the time I hit Jude's part I was getting invested and shortly thereafter I was all in.

The book also deals with grief and I think that is one of the reasons I put it off. However, I really liked how they dealt with the heartbreak. It was sad, however it wasn't devastating even if the characters thought they would never heal and be broken forever. Although grief is the journey both kids make there is a HEA which might be a bit too easy as pieces fall into place. However, at the same time, I appreciated how easily it all fell together. In this way you felt good after the book ended and uplifted.

I also love how you are immersed in the way both kids saw the world. Full of metaphor and art. It was a way of understanding or controlling everything they experienced. The thoughts and feelings became art as well as the art they produced. All of it became catalysts in their healing.

I enjoyed the audio and did like the split between the two narrators. I think their accents were consistent and it really separated the voices between the twins.

I give the book 4 1/2 stars. After a slow start this is a great book full of metaphor, art and above all healing the heart. I highly recommend he book and I need to try the author's other work.

Genre: Art Instruction
224 p.
Publisher: Watson-Guptill
Published: 10/10/17
Source: NetGalley and publisher for review

A contemporary paint-every-day watercolor guide that explores foundational strokes and patterns and then builds new skills upon the foundations over the course of 30 days to create finished pieces.

This beautifully illustrated and inspiring guided watercolor-a-day book is perfect for beginning watercolor artists, artists who want to improve their watercolor skills, and visual creatives. From strokes to shapes, this book covers the basics and helps painters gain confidence in themselves along with inspiration to develop their own style over the course of 30 days. Featuring colorful contemporary art from Mon Voir design agency founder and Instagram trendsetter Jenna Rainey, this book's fresh perspective paints watercolor in a whole new light.

My thoughts:

This is probably one of the best beginning watercolor books that I have come across in a long time. I really like how it breaks down skills and puts it in easy to understand format. I would love to see an accompanying video since watercolor is a visual art. I think that it would also be helpful to grasp the concepts much easier. However, once you do the exercises one or more times it should become more clear in what skill the book is trying to impart. For those new to this art, I would suggest taking each project as it comes in the book. The skills build upon the other.

For more advanced artists, the earlier exercises might seem too simple, but it is also good to go back to the beginning and just practice. You should be able to fly through those first chapters or skip around in this case. The last projects were you put the pictures together would probably be more interesting here and I do like how her simple and bright washes keep the paintings clear and high value. Makes the art look very fresh and it seems to be a trend in the watercolor illustration market.

In conclusion, I give this art book 4 stars. I would recommend this book to someone wanting to try watercolor and some good practice for those that have been painting for a while.

from Dylan's Deviant Art Page

from Dylan's Deviant Art Page

from Dylan's Deviant Art Page

Genre: Art
160 p.
Published: Sept. 19, 2017
Publisher: Watson-Guptill
Source: NetGalley and Publisher for review

An inspirational, instructional, and visually stimulating guide to sketching and drawing. Dare to Sketch is filled with practical tips about which materials to use, a variety of subject matter ranging from easy to more challenging, and wisdom about overcoming creative blocks and fear of making mistakes.

A whimsical beginner's guide to sketching, covering all of the important basics: what kind of notebook to buy, what drawing materials to use, ideas for subject matter, and daily exercises. Includes inviting, inspirational, and idiosyncratic tips (don't start on the first page of your sketchbook!), Dare to Sketch is gorgeously illustrated with the author's unique and contemporary art style.

My thoughts:

 I'm always on the lookout for a sketching book to finally get me to sketch! Yea, I know... it is up to me and not a book but inspiration is always a good thing. While this one didn't quite get my butt in gear and start sketching as much as I should, it was a good primer book for those that want just some information on sketching in general.

I actually didn't agree with some of the suggestions here, I didn't quite disagree either. I do like his suggestions on materials, but I think to get someone to sketch you need to make it more accessible and more relaxed. The suggested paper and pens were ideal, but I think that a much more relaxed attitude toward it gets people to start more than anything else. Ironically it is a sentiment he seems to make when getting down to how to record what you see. His attitude there is that you don't need to produce photographic type of drawings (keep those for a camera) but to get more of the gesture and feel of the objects.

In the end I give this book 3 stars. It is good basic information for those starting to sketch and it does have some good inspirational sketches from the artist. I also like the last couple of pages that talked about master artists and what happened to their sketchbooks. I always love those kinds of tidbits.

Genre: adult coloring book
96 p.
Published: 9/6/16
Publisher: Lark Crafts
Source: From publisher for review

Dive into the macabre, mysterious world of Edgar Allan Poe’s chilling tales with popular coloring book artist Odessa Begay (Little Birds). Inspired by Poe’s beloved stories, Begay has created images that reference settings, motifs, and details that fans will recognize.

My thoughts:

I have to admit, I've not been a huge fan of the adult coloring books. I don't hate them, but have not really been inspired to color them. I'd rather make my own pictures to color. However, I'm a huge fan of illustrations so it wouldn't be unusual to find me looking through one of these kinds of books.

Halloween approaches and I don't think it is just for the kiddies anymore (or was it ever "just"?). To me, Poe is the perfect poet and author for this season so you know I had to have this one. I also wanted to see how she interpreted the snippets of stories we get authored by Poe. The most famous of his poems and stories: "The Telltale Heart", "The Pit and Pendulum" and "The Raven" is included but also "The Cask of Amontillado", "Ligeia", "The Gold Bug", "The Fall of the House of Usher" and many more. I enjoyed seeing her macabre interpretations of the subject matter and I found her illustrations quite creative and have a sense of dynamic feel to the pictures. It is one you can just sit and look at if you wish.

Here are some examples from the publisher (click to enlarge):

I not sure how to exactly rate this one, but if it is for creativity and execution, I'll give it a 5. I guess the rest would be up to you and how you wish to complete the picture. I think with this subject matter, I'd say color outside the lines. I think Poe did in his own way. :D

Genre: Art/ Art Instruction
248 p.
Published: 1/5/16
Publisher: Watson-Guptill
Source: Blogging for Books

A unique behind-the-scenes guide to the painting process of one of the most popular artists working in the growing, underground art scene of Pop Surrealism. 

Get ready for a behind-the-scenes look at the painting tools, methods, and inspirations of one of the top artists working in the growing field of Pop Surrealism. For the first time, beloved best-selling author and artist Camilla d’Errico pulls back the curtain to give you exclusive insights on topics from the paints and brushes she uses and her ideal studio setup, to the dreams, notions, and pop culture icons that fuel the creation of her hauntingly beautiful Pop Surrealist paintings.

With step-by-step examples covering major subject areas such as humans, animals, melting effects, and twisting reality (essential for Pop Surrealism!), Pop Painting gives you the sensation of sitting by Camilla’s side as she takes her paintings from idea to finished work. This front row seat reveals how a leading artist dreams, paints, and creates a successful body of work. For fans of Camilla and the underground art scene, aspiring artists looking to express their ideals in paint, and experienced artists wanting to incorporate the Pop Surrealist style into their work, Pop Painting is a one-of-a-kind, must-have guide.

My thoughts:

I have been enjoying the manga inspired art more than I have previously. I think it is because it has been done more in an artistic way and not just ink on paper. I have nothing against the early manga, but the new work coming out has caught my attention. The author calls her artistic bent, Pop Surrealism. I would say that is quite accurate.

Not only do you get her wonderful, colorful and mystical paintings but she also answers the most common questions she gets about her technique. She also goes through some of her paintings on how each layer builds upon another to the final piece. I love her light touch and I also enjoy seeing her process in how she changes things while she is creating the painting.

I give this book 5 stars. If you are looking for a beginning book, this may not be for you even though her instructions are easy to follow. If you love art books and want to see how someone goes through the process of the painting, I highly recommend this book.

Series: Wild Seasons #3
338 p.
Publisher: Gallery Books
Published: 9/15/15
Source: From publisher for review

What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. 

But what didn't happen in Vegas seems to follow them everywhere.

Lola and Oliver like to congratulate themselves on having the good sense to not consummate their drunken Las Vegas wedding. If they’d doubled-down on that mistake, their Just Friends situation might not be half as great as it is now. 

... Or so goes the official line. 

In reality, Lola’s wanted Oliver since day one—and over time has only fallen harder for his sexy Aussie accent and easygoing ability to take her as she comes. More at home in her studio than in baring herself to people, Lola’s instinctive comfort around Oliver nearly seems too good to be true. So why ruin a good thing? 

Even as geek girls fawn over him, Oliver can’t get his mind off what he didn’t do with Lola when he had the chance. He knows what he wants with her now ... and it’s far outside the friend zone. When Lola’s graphic novel starts getting national acclaim—and is then fast-tracked for a major motion picture—Oliver steps up to be there for her whenever she needs him. After all, she’s not the kind of girl who likes all that attention, but maybe she’s the kind who’ll eventually like him. 

Sometimes seeing what’s right in front of us takes a great leap of faith. And sometimes a dark wild night in Vegas isn’t just the end of a day, but the beginning of a bright new life...

My thoughts:

I've heard so much about this author and have wanted to try her books. When this came in the mail for me to review I was excited. I was a bit worried that jumping into the series would confuse me but not worries, you can jump into this book without having read the others that preceded it.

Well, Lola is an artist of graphic novels and Oliver is a proprietor of comic books and the like. It made sense that they would have so much in common and it was no surprise that they would have crushes on each other. There is tension and there is frustration at the beginning for the reader because you can see both like each other but don't know how to proceed. Neither wants to ruin the friendship they have currently. Oh and yes, we get both POVs so we can see and not just guess how much Oliver likes, loves and respects Lola.

It is here where the book shines. I think Oliver's POV made the book for me. I loved Lola and how she was intelligent about what she was going through with her career but she lacked in emotional intelligence when it came to relationships. Oliver is aware and takes it slowly. What made me love him isn't how he took care when it came to Lola (although it did help) but when he respected and trusted her enough to save herself when she got herself in a bind. He wanted to save her but knew she could do it on her own and what that would mean to her. He was content to just be a sounding board and support. Oh yea, swoon worthy indeed!

I give this book 4 1/2 stars. It also has a LOT of sizzle for those that like it hot and steamy but also has a great relationship story with all the frustrations and victories that we enjoy in a romance. I highly recommend it and it is a great addition to the romantic genre.

Standalone
304 p.
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Published: 11/3/15
Source: NetGalley and publisher for review

Artist Beatrix Adams knows exactly how she's spending the summer before her senior year. Determined to follow in Leonardo da Vinci’s footsteps, she's ready to tackle the one thing that will give her an advantage in a museum-sponsored scholarship contest: drawing actual cadavers. But when she tries to sneak her way into the hospital’s Willed Body program and misses the last metro train home, she meets a boy who turns her summer plans upside down. 

Jack is charming, wildly attractive . . . and possibly one of San Francisco’s most notorious graffiti artists. On midnight buses and city rooftops, Beatrix begins to see who Jack really is—and tries to uncover what he’s hiding that leaves him so wounded. But will these secrets come back to haunt him? Or will the skeletons in Beatrix’s own family’s closet tear them apart?

My thoughts:

One thing that can get me to read contemporary fiction is art. This one has at least 2 artists in it so I knew I was good to go. Plus, Jen Bennett? I ADORED her Arcadia Bell series (adult) so picking this book up with those two things going for it was a no brainer.

I was not disappointed with this book. While there were things in it that made you want to check the Bex and Jack's IQ, there were also times when I thought... "well, they are more mature than I would have been!" Both have lots of love and compassion going for them so they make a great couple. I found the romance to be a bit fast but I wouldn't say it was insta-love. You really root for them in the end and yes, I will say this... you do get an HEA that feels solid.

I give this book 4 1/2 stars. If you enjoy contemporary with an arty slant, pick up this book! I would say that this is YA (both HS seniors) but it does deal with some adult issues. I would say this is for the older YA crowd as well as NA. I recommend it to those that enjoy a good contemporary romance.

Art Instruction
 304 p.
Publisher: Watson-Guptill
Published: 8/4/15
Source: NetGalley and publisher for review

This highly illustrated reference book provides artists and art students with an understanding of human anatomy and different types of motion, inspiring more realistic and energetic figurative art.

Fine-art instruction books do not usually focus on anatomy as it relates to movement, despite its great artistic significance. Written by a long-time expert on drawing and painting human anatomy, Classic Human Anatomy in Motion offers artists everything they need to realistically draw the human figure as it is affected by movement. Written in a friendly style, the book is illustrated with hundreds of life drawing studies (both quick poses and long studies), along with charts and diagrams showing the various anatomical and structural components. This comprehensive manual features five distinct sections, each focusing on a different aspect of the human figure: bones and joint movement, muscle groups, surface form and soft tissue characteristics, structure, and movement. Each chapter builds an artistic understanding of how motion transforms the human figure and can create a sense of expressive vibrancy in one's art.

My thoughts:

This art book actually reminds me more of the anatomy books you get when you study animation. It makes sense that you would study movement in classical poses since you can render a subject off balance and not realize it. This book helps you understand the structure behind the movement and poses your subject gives you. You can then translate a pose in a balanced way or once you gain understanding unbalance a subject in a purposeful way.

This book would also be of help to those that deal with any kind of structural endeavor.  Those that want a greater understanding of movement would get a great overlook on how the muscles and bones process movement. While sometimes it can be a tedious amount of information, but it is useful as a reference guide. It would be a great addition to other figure drawing books. I give this book 3 1/2 stars.

384 p.
Publisher: Atria Books
Published: 3/17/15
Source: NetGalley and publisher for review

Possession. Power. Passion. New York Times bestselling novelist M. J. Rose creates her most provocative and magical spellbinder yet in this gothic novel set against the lavish spectacle of 1890s Belle Époque Paris. 

Sandrine Salome flees New York for her grandmother’s Paris mansion to escape her dangerous husband, but what she finds there is even more menacing. The house, famous for its lavish art collection and elegant salons, is mysteriously closed up. Although her grandmother insists it’s dangerous for Sandrine to visit, she defies her and meets Julien Duplessi, a mesmerizing young architect. Together they explore the hidden night world of Paris, the forbidden occult underground and Sandrine’s deepest desires. 

Among the bohemians and the demi-monde, Sandrine discovers her erotic nature as a lover and painter. Then darker influences threaten—her cold and cruel husband is tracking her down and something sinister is taking hold, changing Sandrine, altering her. She’s become possessed by La Lune: A witch, a legend, and a sixteenth-century courtesan, who opens up her life to a darkness that may become a gift or a curse. 

This is Sandrine’s “wild night of the soul,” her odyssey in the magnificent city of Paris, of art, love, and witchery. 

Art, mystery, romance.... uh, yes please. I was totally taken in by this book. I loved reading about all of the paintings and even looked up a couple while reading. I was totally captivated by the background in this book and Paris in that time period (1890s).

What was really interesting is how the book progressed for me. It was at first a book about a woman leaving a bad marriage. Then it introduced a bit of magic and it felt like I may be in for a magical realism book. As time goes on it gets darker and darker. It turns into a haunted book and then twists into a horror book. It really made the book compelling.

I did have a few problems with the book. Her husband Benjamin was not a nice guy and in fact sounded abusive, but not in an over the top way we often get in these books. I thought that there would be more to him but there wasn't and I felt that it was a lost opportunity. He really was just background for her being in Paris and when we was reinserted into the story it felt a bit forced. If this was my only problem, the book would have gotten very high marks from me. I loved the mystery, atmosphere and romance. What I hated was the ending.

The ending.

One thing I hate more than cliffies are abrupt endings. In one way I actually can see how it works here. It keeps you thinking about it and wondering about all the unanswered questions. If you are like me, then you will not like the ending at all. Too much left open and the last chapter wasn't to sum up but more like an epilogue that happened a couple days after the big finish. I just need a wee bit more information to be satisfied. Just at least one more question (but an important one) to leave me with a smile.

I've been debating about what I will score this one. I think I'll give it 3 1/2 stars. I loved most of the book. I had a hard time putting it down, but that ending? For me it was a killer. I'm certain that for others they will like the way it ended because it kept in in your mind pondering things and turning things over. I do recommend this book to those that love a story that seems to transform. I know I'll be reading more from this author.

Cookbook/ Photography Book
248 p.
Publisher: Clarkson Potter
Published: 11/11/14
Source: Blogging for Books for review

Gabriele Galimberti's beautiful portraits of grandmothers from all over the world posing with their signature dishes remind us that sharing traditions through food is universal. 

As Gabriele Galimberti was preparing to set off on a trip around the world, his Italian grandmother was more concerned about how well he would eat than any risks or mishaps he might face on his travels. As a send-off, she prepared his favorite dish, Swiss Chard and Ricotta Ravioli with Meat Sauce. He then promised her that he would eat good food wherever he went, and while on his trip, persuaded grandmothers in 60 countries to cook a meal for him. At each grandmother's table, he became her curious and hungry grandson, tasting her dish and capturing her pride with his camera. The resulting book's stories, recipes, and loving photographs pay homage to all grandmothers and their cooking and provides a moving, anthropological glimpse into the national palates in faraway places. From a Swedish homemaker and her homemade lox and vegetables to a Zambian villager and her Roasted Spiced Chicken, this collection inspires great appreciation for our most cherished family members.

My thoughts:

As the blurb above tells the tell, Gabriele's grandmother gave him the idea for this book. In fact, she was the first grandma in the book. I just knew I had to check this book out from the fabulous cover! Each part of the book is a grandmother as varied as grandmothers can be. There are some that are surprisingly young and others with several great grandchildren. What they all have in common is their love of family and food. Each page has a picture of the grandmother and the ingredients (like the cover). The next picture is a full page of the dish. On the next pages there is a small paragraph or two about the woman and her meal with the recipe. The book is worth just the pictures and the small stories! Even dishes I would not want to try (caterpillar) still made me feel as if I would be happy to eat them because of the pride that went into cooking the food and why they made it. Other photographs made me wish I was there while they were cooking the food for the companionship and... well... the food! Some of the dishes were mouth watering.

I give this book 5 stars. It is a wonderful book if you just want it as a coffee table book, if you want some short stories about a grandmother's favorite dish or you want unique and interesting recipes. I know this book made me think of my grandma and her dish she made every Thanksgiving. Yes, it made me quite nostalgic. I highly recommend this book.

Photography by Gabirele Galimberti (his grandma's dish) Other sneak peaks go HERE

Genre: Art
Subtitle: Paint Small and often to Become a More Creative, Productive and Successful Artist
192 p.
Published: 11/4/14
Publisher: Watson-Guptill
Source: Blogging for Books for review

A unique system for jump-starting artistic creativity, encouraging experimentation and growth, and increasing sales for artists of all levels, from novices to professionals. 

Too many artists find themselves in a frustrating rut: unable to sell paintings hanging in galleries, bogged down by projects they can't finish "or "abandon, and using any excuse to avoid working in the studio. Author Carol Marine was herself suffering from painter's block--until she discovered "daily painting." The idea is simple: do art (usually small) often (how often is up to the individual) and, if you desire, post it and sell it online. Today Marine is among the best and most celebrated daily painters, and the curator of the popular online gallery dailypaintworks.com. In her debut, "Daily Painting," Marine reveals the tips and tricks that helped her and other daily painters pick up the paintbrush and start creating beautiful, bountiful, marketable work.

My thoughts:
I love this book! This book really gets down to everything you need to know to successfully start painting every day. It is one way that I do plan on painting (I do have a legit excuse... swear!) so I love having this book to get me inspired and help in the form of a few exercises to help improve your drawing and painting skills. This book can be used by a beginner as well as those more advanced and looking for something to better themselves or just get past a block. The book is aimed primarily at oil painters (since the author does primarily oil, it makes sense) but there are also examples and interviews by artists who paint in other mediums. She even makes mention that a pottery artist was helped by doing small pieces everyday!

I give this book 5 stars. If you are looking for something to really jumpstart your art I highly recommend this book. Little known fact: This blog was supposed to be a daily painting blog, but life had other plans. I will do this one day and now I feel as if I have a guide on how to make it happen.

Photography
144 p.
Published: 10/28/14
Publisher: Harper Design
Source: From publisher for review

This highly anticipated follow-up to the bestselling book Shake features more than 130 photographs of adorable puppies. This brilliant, brightly colored collection truly captures the squishy cuteness of a puppy—its tousled fur, floppy ears, and endearing expression—in the moment when our tiny, wide-eyed companion is mid-shake. 

In addition to its vibrant photographs, Shake Puppies includes a message of support for animal rescue and creating an environment in which all dogs, young or old, can succeed in their new homes. Training tips are included to help dog owners achieve this goal. There is also a roster listing the names and ages of all the dogs featured, as well as a peek into Carli Davidson's studio.

My thoughts:

Hm.. my thoughts on this book? Seriously? I don't think I have a coherent thought in my brain with all the cuteness! Okay first... PUPPIES! Second... PUPPIES caught with such cute and humorous expressions while in mid shake. You cannot have a bad day with this book in your hands. Then I learn that the author also adopted a dog during the session. Not a puppy but an elderly dog needing a home. Carli Davidson is also a proponent of rescues. I also love that there is a small section on basic training. I feel that is one of the main reasons that dogs are sent to shelters because they don't know basic manners. It's not the dog's fault, but the human who failed to educate themselves and train their dogs.

I give this 5 puppy breaths! Need a smile? Get this book! It is adorable and like I said it would even make the grinch turn his frown upside down! :D

Standalone
384 p.
Publisher: Harper
Published: 10/7/14
Source: From publisher for review

Moving from Paris to Italy to North America, a sensuous, heartbreaking novel about art, beauty, star-crossed lovers, and the choices that define our lives, from the award winning author of Summer Gone 

A young man arrives in Paris in 1968, where a series of unlikely events lead him to a tiny village in Italy—and to the great love of his life. A marble merchant meets a couple on their honeymoon, introducing them to the sensual beauty of Carrara. An Italian woman travels to Canada on an odyssey to find the father she never knew. A terrible accident in a marble quarry changes the course of a young boy’s life and, ultimately, sets in motion each of these stories, which David Macfarlane masterfully chisels into a magnificent whole.

Oliver Hughson falls in love with wild, bohemian Anna over the course of one glorious summer in Italy. Bound by a sense of responsibility to his adoptive parents, he leaves her and returns home—an act he will regret for the rest of his life. Through luck or fate, Oliver had found the woman with whom he was meant to be. And now he must try to find his way back to her. 

Narrated by the daughter Oliver never knew he had, The Figures of Beauty is a love story of mythic proportions that reminds us of the powerful bond that can connect two people indelibly across oceans and time.

My thoughts:
The book is centered around sculpture, particularly marble sculpture. You travel through different time periods all which interconnect in some way through marble. The lush language puts you in Italy where most of the book takes place. In any time period, you can really travel with this author's words.

The story mostly follows Oliver, his doomed love story and his daughter. There are also references to artists, in particular Michelangelo as well as Anna (Oliver's lover and his daughter's mother) a present day non-figurative sculpture artist. The ventures back in time especially the ones in the 40s were intriguing but the time shifts just didn't come together for me. Yes, I did see a connection, but as an observer it didn't connect to me personally. It may be due to shifting constantly through time or that I never developed a connection to Oliver and his daughter. I think that if a book was made more about the past and it was constant, I think I would have enjoyed this book much more.

I give this book 2 1/2 stars. It is beautiful in the descriptions of the places, it has some interesting secondary characters, but I just didn't quite connect to much in this book. I would pick up a book by this author because of the beautiful writing, but this one didn't quite come together for me in the end.

Illustrator: Ben Hatke
Age range: 4-8
40p.
Publisher: First Second
Published: 9/2/14
Source: From publisher for review

When Julia and her walking house come to town, she likes everything about her new neighborhood except how quiet it is! So Julia puts a sign up: “Julia’s House for Lost Creatures.” Soon she’s hosting goblins, mermaids, fairies, and even a dragon. Quiet isn’t a problem anymore for Julia…but getting her housemates to behave themselves is! 

The first ever picture book by Zita the Spacegirl author/illustrator Ben Hatke is painted in his charming, detailed, immersive watercolors.

My thoughts:
Well, I don't normally review children's books for one simple reason... I don't have kids. I do take the suggestions I see out in the blogosphere to my cousins but normally I don't read them. However, when I got this book I had to take a look. I love illustrated books and I love the artwork within those pages.

In the simple story Julia is looking to extinguish her loneliness with something different. She puts out a sign and gets some really interesting guests. At first their is chaos but Julia knows how to handle it. In the end everyone lives harmoniously with each other even though they are all very different. Yep, cute story as well.

I don't want to give too much in the way of the illustrations but the author/illustrator did a post on how the character of Julia evolved. Just go HERE to see all those lovely illustrations.

I recommend this book who enjoy picture books, even kids. This is a delightful creature book that isn't scary but fun. I would probably give the story 4 stars and the illustrations a 5.

160p.
Publisher: Watson-Guptill
Available Now
Source: Blogging for Books for review

A guide that shows painters, drawers, doodlers, and urban sketchers how to bring their drawings to life with colorful, bold, yet accessible painting methods. 

Watercolor sketching is a rapidly emerging technique that enlivens sketches done in pen or pencil with the expressive washes, glazes, and luminous hues of watercolor . This lushly illustrated resource teaches artists on the go how to sketch with watercolor, rendering subjects efficiently and without inhibitions. Readers are guided through all aspects of the medium, from fundamental techniques including wet-on-wet, glazing, and washes; materials and supplies; and little known tips and tricks for getting the most out of watercolor (for example, just sprinkling a little salt on your painting creates a texture that's impossible to achieve with a brush.) A strong focus color theory provides a solid foundation for enhancing drawings with vibrant hues.

My thoughts:
 I'm always on the lookout for inspiration to help me sketch. Confession: I do not sketch but all artists need to sketch. I know this and yet I still don't do it. *hangs head in shame* Since my primary medium is watercolor I was happy to review this book.

The book is wonderful for the beginner. It has some great information including some history of watercolor presented in a way that isn't boring. Plus all the illustrations throughout the book keep the book feeling light and fun. I even learned something. The author suggest using alcohol (yes the kind you drink) if you are confronting bad weather like extreme cold. While the alcohol might dull the colors a bit, you might get some interesting play on the paper. While this was a good epiphany, the rest of the book was a rehash of things I already knew. So, therefore, I would recommend the contents of the book to beginners on the watercolor journey.

I did have few criticisms of the book. One was when the author was describing glazing. This technique is often when you apply one wash of color over a dried wash of color. The author left out some important information in this chapter. One was knowing your staining colors. Those are excellent to glaze over since you won't be picking up paint while going over that color. The other is transparency of the colors. Some watercolor paints (like your cadmiums) are somewhat opaque and will affect your glazing ability. I also would have liked a section for water control. It is important to learn how much water your brush is holding to get the effect you want for your painting. My last criticism is that this book seemed geared for finished paintings and not sketches. While that is usually your goal, it isn't always with sketching. He did give some great advice toward sketching but it kept switching between that and finishing your painting. I think it would have been more effective the book was about sketching and have an ending chapter about finished work.

I give this book 3 stars. I recommend it to those that need a foundation course on watercolor in particular. More advanced artists might enjoy it for the loose sketching and artwork within.

Art Instruction Book
Medium: Colored Pencil
176p.
Available Now
Source: Blogging for Books for review

Learn to draw and paint using colored pencils in The New Colored Pencil: a how-to guide for creating vibrant, textured, and easy art illustrations by best-selling author and teacher Kristy Kutch 

Master the Latest Breakthroughs in Colored Pencil Art 

If you want to create colorful, radiant works of art, colored pencil and related color media (wax pastels, watercolor pencils, and so on) provide you with limitless options for adding vibrancy to your creations. In The New Colored Pencil, artist and instructor Kristy Ann Kutch guides you through the latest developments in color drawing media with examples of and recommendations for the newest pencil brands, drawing surfaces, and groundbreaking techniques (including using the Grid Method, grating pigments, blending with heat, and more). Supported by step-by-step demonstrations and showcasing inspiring art from some of today’s best colored pencil artists, The New Colored Pencil shows you how to use color theory to your advantage, combine color media, create and enhance textures, and experiment with surfaces to create interesting effects. Whether you use traditional wax-based, or watercolor colored pencils,The New Colored Pencil will take your art to the next level.

My thoughts:
Well, here is my new art book review. I have been wanting to do these for a while now and just got the opportunity. I love art and encourage everyone to at least try it. :)

I have been wanting to incorporate different things into my watercolors. I have considered colored pencil and now that they have water-soluble pencils I need to consider it further. There was even a section dedicated to the water-soluble pencils and even pastels. That was a nice surprise and fortunately (or unfortunately for my wallet) I now want to try those as well.

I didn't just get ideas in that section. I also had ideas of combining the more traditional pencils to watercolor. I didn't even consider the wax content in the pencil and how it could create a resist and it got me to thinking about being able to preserve some color through the resist or even just create interesting patterns with the resist itself.

My favorite part of the book is where she breaks down a lot of the more popular artist grade pencils and pastels. It helps you save a lot of time and money just by reading those parts. You can then decide what you want your work to do and pick the appropriate utensil. It made me want several brands just by reading their capabilities.

The part that I thought needed a bit more work would have been the areas on watercolor. She isn't a watercolorist and you could tell in this section. Although it was lightly visited a better section on watercolor brushes might have been a good choice. I enjoyed her selection of papers listed but I would have also liked perhaps a list of watercolor books that would be good for a beginner for those that haven't tried the medium yet.

I give this book 4 stars. It is easy to follow and helps you pick out your product easily. I think for a beginner it would give them a good overview of the medium and it also helps seasoned artists to think about how they might want to incorporate pencils and some pastels into their work.

Series: Clipped Wings #1
400p.
Published: March 4, 2014
Publisher: Gallery Books
Source: Edelweiss and publisher for review

An emotional love story that follows the touch-and-go relationship of Hayden and Tenley; two young people who desperately want to love and be loved but are afraid to completely let go of their pasts. 

As Hayden and Tenley navigate their newfound but slightly unstable relationship, they want to trust each other, but Hayden is hiding a dark and shameful past that he doesn't ever want Tenley to find out about. And Tenley has secrets of her own that could make Hayden run away forever. When Tenley asks Hayden to put a beautifully elaborate tattoo across her back, the two form what they thought was an unshakeable bond. But when Tenley's past shows up on her doorstep, will Hayden stand by her side...or run?

My thoughts:
Oh a contemporary romance! I don't often read these, but it has an element I usually gravitate toward.... creativity! The creative elements in this story is tattooing and drawing. Something artsy is usually an element that will draw me in.

This is a story about Hayden and Tenley. Both have been through horrific experiences that have clouded the way they see themselves. Tenley's is much fresher than Hayden's experience, but both have been hurting in some way. Both don't want to reveal themselves to the other in fear that the information will alter the other's perspective. Within the grip of what they have it helps loosen up their resolve and small parts of their horror present themselves to each other. Not always on their time table or in the time of their choosing. Yes, there is angst and drama, but it doesn't feel too drawn out into becoming annoying.

I did have a few red flags when it came to Hayden's behavior. He was quick to anger. It was uncontrollable at times and even Hayden was surprised at the level and swiftness. He also had problems with not being able to control his environment. He expressed it mostly in hating clutter, but it also seemed to leak onto other people. So someone who hates a lack of control and is quick to anger... not to  mention a unhealthy dose of obsession... in the real world could spell trouble. However, in the fictitious world, everything is fine and he just needs to calm down.

So other than the red flag, I was curious as to how these two would eventually come together and all would be right in the world. I was also interested in the length of the book in getting there. It wasn't bad, but I kept being surprised we wouldn't get to certain parts until later. This helped to not give it an insta-love vibe, but I also thought it could have been paired down and edited a bit to really get the book being tight. Still, it did keep my interest.

So, I was reading away when...

Yep, pretty much how I felt. The book didn't just stop at a cliffie... it threw you off that cliff and you didn't even know it. I even thought my ereader got stuck and didn't get the last pages. I had to check to see to make sure I didn't get a bad copy or something. That almost made me give this book a 1 star. I really REALLY hate that. Not only that, I didn't really see the story into being more than a standalone. However, I'll be kind and rate the rest of the book. So, I give this book 2 stars. I recommend it to those that love two broken people coming together but I warn you that you aren't missing the rest of the book... it's just not there.

They say first love never dies... 

From critically acclaimed author Kate Ellison comes a heartbreaking mystery of mental illness, unspoken love, and murder. When sixteen-year-old artist Olivia Tithe is visited by the ghost of her first love, Lucas Stern, it’s only through scattered images and notes left behind that she can unravel the mystery of his death.

There’s a catch: Olivia has gone colorblind, and there’s a good chance she’s losing her mind completely—just like her mother did. How else to explain seeing (and falling in love all over again with) someone who isn’t really there? 

With the murder trial looming just nine days away, Olivia must follow her heart to the truth, no matter how painful. It’s the only way she can save herself.

Notes From Ghost Town Review:
The book starts out as a sweet YA. Two friends who have known each other since they were very little start noticing each other in a new way. Both are embarking on their own adventure, just starting out in life. The sweetness of this beginning only enhances the horror to come. Lucas, aka Stern, is dead a week later and her mother is accused of his murder. In the midst of it all Kate loses all color. Everything is grey and it's not just her circumstances of what is happening around her. It's something as an artist she can't seem to fathom and is afraid she is becoming like her mother, schizophrenic.

This is just the start of the book. Not only do we have the mystery of Kate's illness, but we also suddenly get the appearance of Stark back in her life. Stark's ghost who claims that Kate's mother had nothing to do with his murder. Kate starts looking for clues trying to not only save her mother, but in doing so, she is also saving herself.

As far as how the mystery plays out, I'd have to say I was captivated. I enjoyed the way it unfolded and even how Kate seemed to find pieces of herself at the same time. I would have to say that there was only one loose end involving a lawyer, but even though I noticed, it did not take away the fun of wrapping up the rest of the mystery.

As a side note, I did have one thing that went through my mind about Kate's inability to see color. I thought that it would actually end up making her a stronger painter in the end. She would be able to concentrate on contrasts without the distraction of color. However, I understand why she may not have seen it the same way especially when she was really worried about becoming sick like her mother. Oh and yea.. I'm probably the only one who thought of that while reading the book. What can I say, I'm strange like that. :)

I give this book 4 stars. It's a good mystery that doesn't start out with one but builds as you go on Kate's adventure.