A Short Hiatus

My apologies, avid readers! This blogging stuff is a lot of work! Due to my complete lack of desire to multitask, and daily efforts on a new short story, I will be taking a break from posting until the short story is complete. Please feel free to comment in the meantime if you miss me! It may even entice me to come back early!

Word of the Day: March 15

Quixotic: foolishly impractical pursuits, especially regarding romantic ventures or chivalrous actions

Today I am in love with love. I am celebrating my third anniversary with my other half. His name is Bill, and I love him dearly.

Perhaps I am alone in this, but I am always in awe of how love can beat the odds. I grew up in a divorced family and have seen heartbreaks triumph over happiness enough times to cause an irreversible callous on my heart. Thankfully, that has not happened yet and I hope it never does. I am thankful every day for my relationship and a person who wants to work as a team with me, but I still can't shake my belief that love, in and of itself, seems very irrational. Yet whether I believe it is rational or not, the love perseveres. It is in those feelings that this word builds its home, where it stands strong against the nay-sayers and rough winds that come to destroy its progress. I chose this word today because it laughs in the face of statistics and declares that "Love is enough."

Here is an example of how to use this starry-eyed word:

She was a princess and he was a pauper, but as he promised her the future and the world, quixotic vows etched a bond deeper than the ink on any marriage contract. 

I encourage you to get to know this word better, to let your hair down and enjoy each other's company. Take it on a spontaneous trip around the world or perhaps declare your unconditional love for it. Don't think, just do.

Word of the Day: March 14

Noumenon: a thing or event that is believed or known about, despite its inability to be detected via the five human senses

This word can be used to describe something that leaves room for uncertainty, as you cannot taste, see, hear, smell, or feel it. From infancy, we use our senses as a primary method of learning, yet isn't it always the unseen that becomes our favorite to explore? Think about it. God, love, aliens and ghosts (if you believe in that sort of thing) all leave room for questions. And though centuries of questions have been left unanswered, there are so many people who still dedicate their lives to chasing the unknown. 

Here's an example of how to use this elusive word:

Eric was hesitant to believe in ghostly creatures, but a baffling brush of his arm in an empty room made him acutely aware of the noumenon's presence.

Give this word some credit despite its lack of tangibility. You may be surprised how useful the unseen can be.

Hump Day Book #4: Bet Me

I am realizing that Hump Day is becoming exhausting. 

As it should be, you prude, some of you are saying. And I agree. Hump Day has a warm place in my heart, and other unmentionables, but I certainly bit off a lot to chew with weekly romance book reviews. Alas, I will stick to my guns and follow through. 

This week's book is written by a Goodreads Author (if you do not know what Goodreads is, you are totally out of the popular reader's circle...it is the online mecca for book reviews, recommendations, and sometimes free borrowing). Jennifer Crusie's Bet Me is the definition of chick-lit before 50 Shades came on the scene, and has all the humor, sexual tension, and junk food references a girl needs. 

The story details the meeting and eventual relationship of Minerva and Cal, who seem anything but destined for one another at the beginning. He appears to have taken her on a date to fulfill the debt of a lost bet, and by the end of said date she is resigned to never see Cal again. Unfortunately, good old fate steps in as it does in every romance novel, and he shakes things up royally.

You can read the rest to see what happens. Just bring a couple Krispy Kremes with you before settling into your recliner. It should help you identify with the character more, right?

Word of the Day: March 13

Opalescent: exhibiting a milky iridescence like that of an opal

Well, this word seems like a good choice for a Hump Day. For those of you who don't know what an opal is, it is a precious stone (birthstone for all you October babies) and in its precious form, it somewhat resembles the iridescent qualities of a pearl. Though this word would make good use of itself describing gemstones, it could also be used to describe the complexion of a lover.

For example:

The linen sheet dropped just low enough to reveal her form, opalescent skin glistening in candlelight, drawing a shadowy path across her neck to her chest to the delicate hearth that would capture his soul.

Take an insurance policy out on this one and keep a velvet bag handy, because this precious jewel is one you will want to keep around for a while. This word is the kind that only becomes more valuable with age.

Word of the Day: March 12

Pontific: relating to pontiffs, priests, or popes; papal

I chose this word today because the papal conclave is smeared across every network television station worldwide. While I am not Roman Catholic, I respect the tradition of this whole ceremony and have high hopes for whomever is chosen to take the place of Pope Benedict.

This word can be used to describe specifically papal duties, or to describe a person or activity that would be considered pompous or dogmatic in nature.

Here is an example of how to use the word:

It became commonplace for company to feign deafness when the Baron began his postulations, each pontific thought lasting no less than thirty minutes before conclusion.

If you are going to the Vatican any time soon, bring this word along in your carry on. And if you see any white smoke coming out of the chimney, let us know!

Word of the Day: March 11

Capitulate: to surrender to opposition or unwelcome demands

I thought this would be an interesting word to choose considering the past few short stories I recommended for reading. I am currently in the process of writing a short story about a young woman who is caught in a less than savory situation, and is left with no choice but to capitulate to a captor. It can be used with less serious intent, but let's be frank - we all love reading the drama. So use this one with the big guns.

Here's an example of how to use this one from your arsenal:

Damien spoke with a voice as sweet as a harp, but the words he used confirmed her greatest fear; if Elinor did not capitulate to every haunting request, she had no hopes of leaving his apartment alive.

Stand strong with this one, and don't let it see your weak spots. If you put on your big boy (or girl) pants and show it who's boss, it may just back down.

Short Story Sunday #3: A Good Man Is Hard to Find

I don't know what it is about horrific short stories that truly capture my attention, but like the other two I have shared thus far, this one fits the bill.

Flannery O'Connor's A Good Man Is Hard to Find tells the story of a grandmother, her son and daughter-in-law, and their children taking a trip. The children are rude, the adults take the grandmother for granted, and they end up visiting places they do not belong. 

This story is another great example of a timeless, well-written short story that grabs your attention yet gives you a full-bodied story in a matter of pages.

As I work on my own skills as a short story writer, these are the kinds of stories I hope to model. There is just nothing like a story that sticks with you for the rest of your life and changes the way you look at the world.

The link below is listed if you would like to read the story for yourself: 

http://pegasus.cc.ucf.edu/~surette/goodman.html

Word of the Day: March 10

Inchmeal: performed gradually, or little by little

I picture a little worm with a big goal when I see this word, or one of those colonies of ants that sends 50 soldiers for one wayward leaf or piece of bread. Though the effort may seem dismal and the goal far off, something about the meaning of this word inspires me. We live in such a fast paced world, people become disappointed without immediate results. This word reminds me that lots of things can be achieved a little at a time.

Here is an sentence putting this word to use:

This was his seventh week at the gym and he was starting to become discouraged. He wasn't expecting and 8-pack to show where an inner tube once was, but this inchmeal approach to a slim physique was making his enthusiasm drop like elephant out of an airplane.

Don't give up hope on this one, or any of your own inchmeal goals for that matter. It's the journey that really matters, not the end result. And just think of it - all those little inches you earn eventually add up to feet, to yards, to miles. You can do it! 

Book Review #3: Twisted Summer

I am desperate for summer. Here in Pennsylvania, there has been snow nearly every week since Christmas, and it always falls from Friday night until Sunday morning. It's like I am supposed to hibernate.

Thinking of summer and all the warm happiness it brings reminded me of my first ever favorite book. I read Twisted Summer by Willo Davis Roberts the summer before entering middle school. It is, if you have not already guessed, a YA (Young Adult) novel, but it is a very interesting one.

With vivid descriptions and interesting twists (do you like that pun?), Willo David Roberts tells the story of three-generations of family as they spend summer vacation in the mountains. Our heroine, CiCi, goes through the transition from childhood to adulthood throughout this summer, and we also learn of a murder that needs to be solved.

I loved this book because it was my first real introduction to darker, more complicated plots. Everything I had read up to that point was from an elementary school textbook, rhymed, and had cartoons as companions. Reading a novel made me feel like I was growing up, and made me feel like I was CiCi as I went through the story.

I suggest picking this book up whenever you need a lazy summer read and want to bring out the curious kid that was once inside you. I'm fresh out of hammocks though, so you'll have to provide your own.

Word of the Day: March 9

Traduce: to slander or speak poorly of someone; to tell lies for the sake of defamation

This word sounds vicious, a perfect verb to slap on the shoulder of a conniving villain or snooty school girl. At first glance or pronunciation, it doesn't seem to pack a mean punch - honestly, when I look at it, I see a mathematical vocab word - but I think that is because the very meaning of this word implies sneaking.

Here is an example of how to use the word:

After hearing the words "no comment" for the hundredth time, Tori took matters into her own hands. She scoured the pages of every interview the senator had given to every other reporter besides her. She tweezed out snippets of sentences and poorly worded points until the congressman's own words traduced his reputation, a journalistic masterpiece in her opinion.

Be careful around this one, and watch what you share in confidence. I think using this word may be the perfect example of keeping your friends close but enemies closer.

March Madness

My oh my...it seems that this month is going to be a busy one. There are never enough hours in a day - I blame it on Daylight Saving Time for stealing an extra hour.

I apologize for the backlog on blog posts as of late. But have no fear, I am hear to catch us up. Bare with me as a flood of posts fill this wall today. I promise to make them worth reading. :)

Word of the Day: March 8

Regalia: an insignia of royalty, or attire worn for formal occasions to define status

This word should be written in gold leaf, I think. It sounds utterly snooty and overly concerned with Keeping Up with the Joneses. It can be used to describe items like a crown or a scepter, which are very much royal, but it can also simply describe gaudily expensive jewelry.

Here is an example of how to use our royal friend:

The duchess sat poised  in front of the vanity mirror as she decorated herself with radiant regalia, one piece's price tag requiring a significant reach into the taxpayers' purse.

This is the type of word that will require you to read Emily Post's Etiquette before a strut about town. You better have deep pockets, too, because it looks like this one has an eye for the finer things in life.

Word of the Day: March 7

Prosaic: lacking poetic beauty, or being commonplace

This word is derived from the idea that prose is, in fact, boring. I can understand the sentiment, and do enjoy a nice line of poetry from time to time, but considering the title of this blog, I enjoy a nice piece of well-written narrative, too. I'm not really fond of rhyming all the time, or hitting the enter key after every fifth word.

This word can be used to describe anything that is monotonous or pedestrian, lacking the ability to take anyone by surprise.

Here is an example of how to use this word:

Standing alone, she was beautiful. It was when she was matched against her elegant peers that she felt prosaic and meaningless.

You may want to take this word backpacking across the world, or even just on a day trip to visit a few museums. Broaden its worldview a bit, let it see things it has not seen before. You might find yourself feeling a bit less prosaic as well.

Hump Day Book(s) #3: The Fifty Shades Trilogy

Okay, I caved. I am going to suggest these books.

For those of you who have already completed the series, I think you know why. For the haters out there, let me just say a few things:

1. I will not attest to the fact that this or any other modern romance novel is akin to true classic literature. Sure, it could be authored with a stronger aptitude for writing, but the fact is it is not. Take it for what it's worth.

2. Though the actual literary value may be debated, from a mainstream reader's standpoint, this book takes what we all once knew as a romance novel and turns it on its head. As far as I know, never before had there been a book that introduced the word of Dominant/Submissive relationships to this extent, and I for one learned A LOT about the people who live within such practices.

That being said, I am thrusting these Best Sellers in your face and telling you to read it. For the sake of your curiosity, for the sake of your marriage, for the sake of yourself. Just do it.

For those of you who have lived under a very large and soundproof rock for that past few years, this is a book about a girl who is just about to graduate college. She is described as somewhat homely, still a virgin, visibly awkward, etc. And then she meets the hottest guy in the whole world.

Of course, because this is how it happens in real life, you're saying. No, but get over yourself. It's still fun to imagine...

Long story short, she wants to be with this man, but he is fifty shakes off the crazy tree. They argue a lot and disagreements go places mine have never gone, but trust me, the make up is amazing. The three books follow the difficult journey set ahead of these characters if they ever have hopes of being together.

I suggest you read it, and preferably make sure you have a partner to share your bed with at night. Props, of course, remain optional.

Laters, baby.

Word of the Day: March 6

Clandestine: Performed in a secretive manner, especially if illicit

This seemed like a good word to choose for a Hump Day, since many times the trysts in our favorite romances are surreptitious in nature. This word is used to describe those unforgettable night-time sneaks and forbidden lovers. It does not have to be in regards to an illicit affair, but honestly, isn't that use so much more fun?

Here is an example of how to use this word:

The professor flicked his desk light on and off three times, a signal to the young apprentice waiting outside. At last, the final occupied office had been emptied and a clandestine romance was ripe for the taking.

I suggest buying a cloak for this word, or perhaps meeting up with it in the wee hours of the morning. This word apparently has a lot to lose if discovered, so stealth is the key.

Word of the Day: March 5

Effluvious: having a potent scent or flavor

This word is typically used to describe food and drink, and it can be used to convey either a pleasant or undesirable smell. However when used to describe a person, it is more commonly used with a negative connotation. People are not supposed to be 'pungent'.

Here is an example of how to use this word:

She thought she was ready to be a nurse on the front lines, but nothing prepared her for the gruesome sights or effluvious smells that suffocated her beneath the army tent. 

Hopefully, this one will treat you to a perfume of roses or cherry blossoms rather than some of the less satisfying scents of this world. Perhaps take it to a park when you use it, just in case. Then you can be sure there is a lot of fresh open air.

Word of the Day: March 4

Vexatious: causing or tending to cause frustration or annoyance

I thought of this word after writing the last Short Story review, because it seems like the perfect word to describe the relationship between the black cat and its troubled owner. This is the type of word you would use to describe nails on a chalkboard - or that one person whose voice screeches like a piece of stray aluminum siding on concrete. Either way, it is a great word to use when you are fed up.

Here is an example of how to use this word, if you can stand to:

Working at the front desk became a nauseating task for Maureen after the first few weeks of summer. Sure, it was the family business, and sure, she earned some non-taxed money each week - but her days were filled with the kind of mundane, vexatious tasks that drive a girl like her out of town faster than she could turn her thumb out to hitchhike. 

You may want to keep this word at an arm's length, but it has its place in literature. Be sure to give it a chance or two, even if it rubs you the wrong way.

Short Story Sunday #2: The Black Cat

Edgar Allan Poe is known for his haunting tales, and this is no exception. The Black Cat is a first-person narrative that details the final days and final threads of a man's sanity. He is married to a beautiful woman, who owns a beautiful cat, but something about the two of them begins to drive him crazy, beginning with the pesky feline.

In this story, our leading man dreams of ways to draw the cat into its own demise. I will let you read it for yourself to learn about the man's, the cat's, and the wife's fate, but know that it is a stunningly chilling story.

Here is a link to read the story for yourself:

http://www.online-literature.com/poe/24/

Enjoy, if you dare!

Word of the Day: March 3

Insularity: of, related to, or located on an island

In solidarity with yesterday's post about idyllic islands, today's word describe those persons, places, or things which are related to an island. This word is used to describe island life, while it can also be used to describe one's personality. For example, imagine a person who keeps to themselves, isolated as an island is from mainland.

Here is an example of how to use this word:

He was a quiet man, bathed in insularity. She had worked for him for over a decade, and yet she did not know so much as his birth date or home town.

Be sure to take things slow with this one, and do not be offended if it is slow to warm. This word may be the brother of our idyllic friend, but they are certainly unique in their personalities.

Book Review #2: The Perks of Being a Wallflower

I do realize that my first two book reviews are those of books with movie adaptations. But I Scout's Honor that I actually have read these books, have yet to see these movies, and was not aware of the movies until after finishing the books. In my defense, so as not to be seen as just following mainstream lit flicks, I believe that it is only some of the best told stories that become a film. At least the films I want to be watching.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a coming-of-age story told from the perspective of an albeit awkward young man. His home life is not one I can relate to, his high school experience is not one I can relate to, and often times his feelings are not those which I can relate to. And yet, Stephen Chbosky has a way of creating a character with whom I empathize and was able to learn to understand.

As I started reading the first letters in this book - it is formatted as letters to an unspecified friend - I wondered if I would be able to enjoy reading this character, mostly because I found him boring and rather embarrassing. You may also feel this way, and it is probably not entirely out of the ordinary. But it is his candid speech, his vulnerability with you that eventually endears him to you.

I would suggest this book to anyone who has gone through high school, no matter how bullied, or unscathed, you came out of it. It is a unique tale with strong, original characters and an easy-to-read layout. I finished this book in less than a day.

And after you read it, let me know if you watch the movie. I am waiting for it to be available on Netflix or RedBox. There's no way I'm paying six dollars for a 24-hour rental On Demand.

Word of the Day: March 2

Idyllic: extremely happy, peaceful, or picturesque

This being a very cold and windy day in Pennsylvania, I chose a word that would insight the idea of an island. When I hear the word idyllic, I see a vibrant blue sky, hear the calm breeze in a pair of palm trees, and feel the warm sun on my skin as it mixes with the cool sting of a mojito on my tongue. In essence, I picture pure bliss, which I feel is exactly what this word wants me to feel.

Of course, this word can also be used to describe an event, not just a tropical locale.

Here is an example of how to use it:

As Sandra basked in the amber afternoon glow, she could not help but think that this place, this exclusive resort, was perfectly idyllic. It was flawless and beautiful, welcoming and warm - not a far cry from her newly found companion.

I suggest you take this word poolside and bring the SPF 45, because you're going to want to get to know it better.

A Brief Interlude

My many apologies for missing the past few days of posts. I spent a little bit of a long weekend in Connecticut, and I found it difficult to dedicate enough time to complete a well-thought-out post. Rather than throwing together some list of elementary Words of the Day, I opted to refrain from posting until I returned.

Now, to catch up on our ground not yet covered...

Word of the Day: March 1

Perfunctory: carried out with minimum effort or reflection

This is a good word to start off the weekend, because I honestly want to do everything with minimal effort on my days off. It can be used to describe a decision that is impulsive or made with little consideration for consequences.

Here is an example of how to use this word:

Though David had only shared three nights with Evelyn, and his friends found his decision quite perfunctory, he was certain that she was his soulmate - and bought a ring to prove it.

Sit this word down on the couch and make sure you take it through a thorough pros and cons list before any big decisions. It's not exactly the pensive type!

Word of the Day: February 28

Amuse-bouche: a bite-size, often complementary, appetizer or pre-meal taste

Literally translated, this word means "to please the mouth." It is widely used to describe appetizers, as suggested above, but I like words best when they operate outside the norm. Amuse-bouche can also be used to describe an event that whets the appetite for things to come. 

Here is an example of how to use the word:

Her captor drew the knife across her skin with just enough force to draw blood. He cackled as he maniacally teased her, the slice becoming an amuse-bouche to the grandiose plans he had in store for her.

Savor this little morsel and use it wisely. Who knows what world of words it will open up to you after you've had a taste.

Hump Day Book #2: On the Island

Today's book recommendation is, once again, not as steamy as some of the books out there, but steamy enough nonetheless. On the Island by Tracey Garvis Graves is a gripping tale of a tutor and teenage boy when they become stranded at sea. I was actually drawn in on that pretense alone and was held captive as a reader by learning all the ways they managed to MacGyver this or that out of island rubble.

Warning, things do get hot and heavy, and Double Warning: Cougar Alert (Good for her, though haha)!! It is a beautiful tale, and the author answers virtually all of the questions you have as you begin to read the story. And trust me, this particular plot with its twists and turns leaves you with A LOT.

Enjoy this read, but please don't invite me on a vacation to the Maldives any time soon. For now, I like the thought of my two feet planted firmly on the ground.

Word of the Day: February 27

Ephemeral: transient, or lasting a very short time

This is the type of word you use to describe a fleeting moment, one that if you blink, you may miss. Since it's Hump Day, one example could be love at first sight in a romance novel. It is something that happens so quick, yet perhaps it has a lot of meaning to your character. 

Here is an example of how to use it in a sentence:

Her name made it to the front page of the tabloids, but it was fleeting fame - an ephemeral blot on the pages of Who's Who in Hollywood.By the following Tuesday, the articles and her head shots were buried in the nearest landfill.

You might need to lock this one down - you know, like slip some kinky handcuffs on it or something. Otherwise, you may not be able to keep it around for long with that short attention span. Gee, that kind of sounds like my boyfriend...

Word of the Day: February 26

Mellifluous: sweet, musical, or pleasant to the ears.

How wonderful it is that not only the meaning of this word is pleasant, but that the word itself is a pleasant package of syllables that roll off the tongue. This word can be used to describe melodies, a person's voice, or to describe the way words or sentences sound. I think that the word itself is quite mellifluous.

Here is an example of how to use it:

As the symphony reached its conclusion, she became overwhelmed with emotions drawn out by the ominous bassoon, the sighing violins, and the fluttering harp. Each note from each instrument married with the others into a mellifluous union that beckoned a single tear from her eye.

I'll take my chances by guessing this word's ideal first date is an opera or musical, rather than a hip-hop concert or rave. Buy it a nice evening gown and perhaps some satin gloves, and make sure to behave like a perfect gentleman when you take it out. Because, let's be honest; she's too beautiful not to deserve that.

Word of the Day: February 25

Effervescent: bubbly, high-spirited or animated

Every time I hear  this word, I imagine myself soaking in one of those champagne glass tubs with bubble bath foam up to my ears. You've seen them before - you know, the ones they install in shady motels for nighttime romantics. I'm pretty sure even Beyonce took a dip in one, specifically in her music video for "Naughty Girl." 

This lively word can be used to describe the carbonated nature of soda pop or a bottle of champagne, but I like to use it to describe a vivacious someone who can't quite tame the energy bubbling up inside them.

Here's an example of how to use it:

I never listen to the instructions preceding a plane ride, but this flight attendant commanded my attention. She pointed her fingers and shook the oxygen mask with such an effervescent, sparkling charisma, I barely remembered I had seen this type of performance dozens of times before.

Order yourself a glass of Prosecco and settle in with this one in first-class. Side effects include giddiness and possible belching.

Word of the Day: February 24

Reticent: reserved in style, restrained or reluctant

This is the type of word that lends me a helping hand when I feel like my literary bag of tricks is running low. If I am writing a story about a quiet, coquettish young lady, it is only a matter of time before I start using the same few words over and over again. Quiet, reserved, shy. Boring, boring, boring. For those of you who get stuck writing "big" every time you mean "big," and "shy" every time you mean "shy," here is a word to break you from your rut.

Here is one way you could use this word in a sentence:

Though today was the final draft deadline, Celia was reticent to submit her first novella for publication; she much preferred that her personal musings stay just that, private and in her old scribbled notebook.

This is the type of word you might want to take for an afternoon tea - or maybe to that stuffy family reunion you have been avoiding for the past few years. Please don't be reticent to use it.

Short Story Sunday #1: Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been

Joyce Carol Oates' Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been is a household name in the world of contemporary short stories. The first time I read it, I had no idea of its widespread acclaim, but it struck a chord in my adolescent girly mind, as I imagine it did with teens who read it at its release, in the 1960s.

I remember scouring the internet for examples of short stories after receiving an assignment in senior-year Creative Writing. Dr. Walters asked us to author a descriptive narrative in 8-10 pages, and I hadn't the slightest idea how to make a story complete in that short amount of time. In that search for literary insight, I found this piece. This story was the first short story I ever read, and it has stuck with me ever since.

The story begins with a teenage girl who is vain and self-consumed, a character flaw  often synonymous with adolescent girls. She spends her evenings, when she is allowed out, cruising for boys at a local eatery, but is fated one night to meet a man who will soon obsess over her youthful looks. One day while she is home alone, this man arrives at her home, clearly taking his obsession to a frightful level. The story details their tense conversation as he tries to coax her into a joy ride in his gold sedan. The man's insistence begins to escalate, and by the end of the story, our outlook for the main character appears inevitably bleak.

There are several things that I enjoy about this story. For one, it takes the fantasy of a quintessential family of four and shakes the reader into reality - reality that there are bad people and bad decisions that can lead to a breakdown of that American dream. It strips away naivety and instead replaces it was the cold truth that we cannot just assume safety. Secondly, I appreciate the flicker of unknowing that Joyce Carol Oates uses so well in her writing. During one scene toward the end of this story, her vagueness lends the reader to a few theories of what might be going on, but it is never clarified. I love this kind of writing, because it is the kind of story that sticks in your mind, that forever begs the question, "What really happened?"

If you have never read this story, I strongly suggest you read it. It is a beautiful example of short story, and the main reason I love to read and write short stories above all else.

Here is a link to Joyce Carol Oates' website, where you may read the story for free:

http://www.usfca.edu/jco/whereareyougoing/

Book Review #1: Ellen Foster

The first book I am choosing to review is one that I finished reading less than a month ago - Ellen Foster by Kaye Gibbons. This book was actually written decades ago and was a first novel for Gibbons, but is still considered a valuable literary piece.

I can remember my mother trying to get me to read this when I was younger, most likely in an effort to make me thankful for the life I led, but alas, it took me 10+ years to actually pick it up and read it cover to cover. Though I think it would have been a meaningful read for me at the time, I think that I was all the more able to appreciate it now, relating to it as an adult (and having the prospect of raising kids on the horizon).

The book essentially details the life of a ten year old girl who never quite knows what 'home' means or feels like. She moves around to houses of friends and family after various crises, but life always seems to upset her plans.Once she is settled somewhere, she is made to pack up a small box with the few objects she can call her own. Though it is a depressing narrative for the majority of the book, it is an honest and vulnerable recounting of what a girl like this would go through. One of the things I appreciated most was the raw voice of our main character, and that she stayed consistent with the time and geographical settings of the book. 

It is a short book, just over 100 pages, and is a poignant, thoughtful read. I would recommend this book to all adults, and even middle- and high-schoolers to gain some perspective on life outside of their own. It certainly helped me to count my blessings for my upbringing, and reminded me how not to be whenever I get around to having children. 

I found this book exceptional for its rich content, ease of reading, and originality. This is one you should think about adding to your shelf. And if you prefer your novels in movie form, you're in luck! Its film adaptation was made 1997.

Word of the Day: February 23

Crepuscular: referring to or active in twilight

This word is most often used to describe insects or other animals who uses the hours of dusk and dawn to do their prowling. Though it has a bit of a harsh sound when spoken, I think the vision it evokes is one that is very peaceful and beautiful.

Here is an example of how to put it into a sentence:

As the pinkish hues of dusk began to settle on the horizon, the screeches and hoots of crepuscular creatures filled the valley with nature's twilight symphony.

Something about that visual makes me want to sing "Home on the Range"...does anybody have a banjo I could borrow?

Word of the Day: February 22

Abhor: to loathe or despise

This word hits you right in the jugular. It doesn't dance around the issue or whisper behind your back, it just straight-up-and-to-the-point tells you "I don't like it."

Here's an example if how to use this sucker punch of a word:

After eavesdropping on the vicious rumors spreading around the office, Kelly knew she had her work cut out for her. This was no longer a friendly workplace spat; she now abhorred these girls, and was dreaming of ways to make them pay.

Make sure you put the safety on this one before you put it in your literary holster, because it's loaded, and it's packing heat.

Word of the Day: February 21

Provocateur: one who incites or stimulates another into action

I don't know about you, but there is something about using French words that makes me feel all fuzzy inside. I guess the name of my blog sort of gives that away, but don't you feel it too? It's something about the way the words roll off your tongue, like each syllable is trying to make sweet love to your ear drums. This word is no exception in my book, especially since its a sibling to the word "provocative." Oh, you naughty, naughty word. Love it.

Here's an example if how to use it:

As the baritone commanded the attention of the Center Square, droves of passersby surrounded him in mesmerizing adoration. The wily provocateur drew in his marionettes, breaching every last golden coin out of their pockets and into his hat with abandon.

Be sure to slip on a beret or at least a cunningly cocked eyebrow before taking this word out on the town. Pairs well with Sauvignon Blanc.

Hump Day Book #1: Wallbanger

Today’s book recommendation is Wallbanger by Alice Clayton. I am sure everybody expected a trilogy with whips, chains, and handcuffs to be my first Hump Day book (don’t worry, it’s already on the list), but I think Wallbanger deserves the first spot.

This is a story about a young single girl, to whom I think nearly every woman can relate. Without giving away too much, she is young, vivacious, and beginning a career as an interior designer in San Francisco. She loves Food Network, has a hilarious cat – and I don’t even like cats because I’m deathly allergic – and goes through the type of obnoxious neighbor issues anyone in a condo already knows about. I chose this book because, while it certainly has the steamy scenes any reader hopes for, the character’s voice is absolutely hilarious. There are times you will find yourself short of breath from getting hot and bothered, but other times where you are short of breath from belly-rolling laughter.

If you are new to the modern romance scene, and are looking for something a bit less exotic than E.L. James, I think this is the book for you. It is touching, witty, and an all-around good story.

After you read it, I look forward to hearing what you think…and I hope that Clive becomes your favorite character, because he is definitely mine!

Word of the Day: February 20

Satiate: to satisfy fully or to excess

This is a word that is commonly used when describing an extravagant meal, but it can also be used to describe fulfilling other wants or needs. Now don’t get me wrong, I enjoy an oversized piece of chocolate ganache cake just as much as the next woman, but there’s something to be said for having those other desires satisfied fully. If any of you read the modern romance novels gracing the shelves of Barnes & Noble, you know exactly what I mean.

For example:

After spending the better part of daylight intertwined beneath the covers, Juliette was certain that her new husband could satiate her passionate desires, and very well at that.

What a fitting word for our first Hump Day. :)

Word of the Day: February 19

Quintessence: a pure, concentrated, or typical example or form

I think this is such a beautiful word. Just say it out loud to yourself. Quintessence. Quintessence. Lovely.

The meaning of the word is also beautiful, used to describe an authentic and complete example of something.

Here is an example of a sentence using our Word of the Day:

Robert was the quintessence of passivity, immovable and emotionless as he watched her take her final breath.

Try using it in a sentence today. It may just become a new favorite!

The Prologue

Well, hello there, friend! 

In the spirit of starting this blog like any good story, I will begin with a little bit of background.

My name is Bethany, and I am 24 years old. I was born and raised in the Philadelphia suburbs, and currently reside in Hatboro, PA. I went to college for Psychology a few years back, but have found myself more inclined to write than anything else as of late. It's funny how things work out like that sometimes. Not so funny are my ever-looming student loans, though.

At the heart of it all, the real problem is my hunger for a good story, whether I read it or I write it. I think it all began when I was growing up, specifically in a home with books rather than cable television. At a young age, I grew to appreciate stories with a strong narrative, and in my adulthood, I am now attempting to pen such stories.

In this blog, I look forward to sharing my favorite finds for all genres and ages, and even sharing some of my own work. If you choose to read this blog, here are some of the things you can look forward to each week:

• Short Story Sunday - I absolutely love short stories. I think that it takes a strong author to create a well-rounded character in a matter of a few pages. Each Sunday, I will share some of my favorite short stories, written by authors such as Joyce Carol Oates, Edgar Allan Poe, and even myself.
• Vocabulary Word of the Day - If there is one thing I learned as I began to develop my writing skills, it is that a broad vocabulary is your friend in the literary world. No one wants to read the same word ten times before the end of a paragraph. Join me as I expand my lexicon and better my ability to express myself.
• Weekly Book Reviews - Though much of my free time is taken up by creating my own stories, I am still an avid reader, and often times finish at least one book weekly. I choose books from different genres and authors, and will be happy to share my thoughts on each new novel I complete.
• Hump Day Book - Each Wednesday, on a day so aptly named Hump Day, I will suggest one of those gulity pleasure, tummy-tingling, toe-curling kind of books you don't want to read in public. Sure, these books aren't for everyone, but they certainly grab the attention of the reader.

I look forward to writing this pilot blog, and I hope you look forward to reading it! Thank you for stopping by, dear friend. Now let's see where the typing takes us...