Silly Book report

The Last Song

2010-09-08T14:15:00.000-07:00

Love, friendship, family, angry, betrayal, loss and forgiveness!

Grab a tissue, cause you will need one at the end.

It’s been a while since I’ve last read Nicolas Sparks’ novel. It’s not bad, but not as good as “A Walk To Remember”. Like Danielle Steel, You pretty much know the outcome of the story. Nicholas Sparks is getting to many books in his writings that are based on sorrow, Loss and death. He can truly write some very heart-warming love stories but I feel like he needs a little change of his routine rut for a change. As I realized my assumption was right, it didn't prepare me for the emotions I felt as I continued to read. “The Last Song “isn't only about love. It's about learning how to forgive yourself for your past mistakes so you can move forward. The last few chapters got me a bit teary!! All of this being said; I did find the ending very touching and bittersweet. Ok, I'm going to get a copy too.

Ps. Interesting??? The librarian told me the screenplay was written before the book, so I’m assuming the movie will be even better than the book. Nope! The movie was not even close to the book. Manny Moore was great as Jamie in “A Walk To Remember”. Miley as Ronnie- not so great!

* FILM * Michael Moore's "Capitalism: A Love Story"

2010-08-06T23:12:00.000-07:00

I haven't watched all of his film. I watched "Sicko", which was fairly good.
I'm currently watching Michael Moore's "Capitalism: A Love Story". Very disappointed!
Sorry, but I prefer Capitalism (Free Market) over Socialism any day.

What is your take on Michael Moore? I agree, all his films pisses me off about Corporate America, lobbyist and especially Bush! We lived in such a beautiful country, yet the rich get richer and the poor ... well... we are screwed! I just felt Moore only puts clips together that support what he believes. A documentary is supposed to be based on facts. Both side of the story right? Michael Moore didn't really cover all the facts. With "Sicko"- I agree we have TERRIBLE health-care coverage in America. However he has forgotten to mention the long wait for medical care in Canada and how they come to us for more urgent care. Personally, I don't trust the government enough to run our health care system anymore than I trust Corporate America. The Government can screw us just like a corporation can. (Look at Social Security.)

With “Capitalism: A Love Story”, I agree that there are greedy people in Corporate America. Yet, we as Americans should also take responsibility for our own action. (Please don’t be mad @ me for saying this.) Majority of us tend to live beyond our means, we buy things we can’t afford and then we refinance to get ourselves into deeper debt. or file bankruptcy. People shouldn’t have purchase bigger house, when they can’t afford it. I also blame the bank/ for lending money to people who can’t afford it nor understand how different loan works. People need to do research when they are purchasing a big ticket item. They do research on a car before they purchase it, why not a house (loans). People need to learn to make sensible financial decisions.

Isn’t it hypocritical of him to make a movie about “Capitalism”, yet he’s capitalizing on it? “Credit Card Companies: The Corporate Loan Sharks ”- will be his next documentary.. haha

On a lighter note, I’M SO HUNGRY! I can’t eat for 14 hours, because I have to do some blood test tomorrow.

Have a nice weekend all.

* FILM * The Kite Runner

2010-08-04T20:07:00.000-07:00

Finally another great film! Yes, it’s foreign but very touching and heart-warming. Afghanistan, a country that we have come to know is quite violent (even though this is pre 9/11). However I must respect such beautiful country and culture, despite its violent. Although it’s a culture most of us are not familiar with. However what we see is that we are all more alike than we think. This film teaches us about friendship and how that lived on through all the tragedies that we as North Americans can only imagine. I have to admit, there are parts I can’t bear to watch. However the kite scene was amazing!

Book Reviews-- “Buyology: Truth and Lies About Why We Buy” - Martin Lindstrom

2010-07-22T03:03:00.000-07:00

So! We are all consumers eh. It’s really interesting to see why we buy or what influences us to buy? From MRI scans, cigarette warnings to how branding & religion are related/linked and why we often choose short-term gratification vs. delay rewards? (Ex. Majority of us will often choose to receive a $15 gift certificate NOW; rather than wait 2 weeks for a $20 certificate.) Product placements in movies and TV shows were pretty cool to read about. Ray Ban gains its popularity when Tom Cruise wore it in the movies "Risky Business" and "Top Gun". Have you ever noticed all the Coke products on American Idol or noticed the stores at the mall uses different fragrances that will makes us buy? =) So next time when you’re at the mall, see if you notices anything different?

Although I find the author a bit cocky and arrogant; I think "Buyology" would make a cool documental for anyone who shops. =) Probably 99.9% females. (Ps. I don’t know the author nor affiliated to him in anyways.) "Buy-ology" gives us a better understanding why we are trick into buying such ridiculous things. It makes me think TWICE before I pull out my credit cards. Do I really need it or do I want it? Of course, I don’t really need it but it makes me question myself if I’m buying for its familiar "comfort" logos. The higher the prices we paid for an item- will make us enjoy it more because we paid more for it. Isn’t that so stupid? Yet I’m guilty of it. "Buyology" allow us to be better consumers by teaching us to be a bit mindful and conscious of what and why we are buying? Think twice before you shop! I know I will. =)

* FILM * Bella..

2010-07-17T20:17:00.000-07:00

*_~ I think, it's very interesting to find out what ring tone people have.. Couldn't help smiling, when an old grandma's had "Baby Got Back" as her ringtone.. go figure! So what ringtone do you have?

Hmmm.. I was wondering when was the last time you wrote in cursive? (Beside your signature.) Aside from my signature, I just realize last night, I can't do cursive without thinking how to write and connect it. SoOo.. I was wondering if they still teach this in Elementary School, since kids are using pc all the time..

Just finish watching "Bella" last night- such a beautiful and heartwarming movie w/ great acting! It makes you happy and sad.. Life happens when you least expected. =) Definitely check this movie out on a raining day!

=) Have a great weekend all !
Now, back to my BBQ.. Anyone wants some ribs??

Julie and Julia - byJulie Powell

2010-07-04T23:57:00.000-07:00

ok, I watched the movie and though the movie was a bit better. The book, however, was so different-- F this and that, but then again it was pretty interesting to read. I don't know if I will ever commit to cooking a book in a year, that's just CRAZY! No wondering she's cussing! Then again, I guess it's worth it. She got a book deal and movie out of it and wasn't expecting it. For now, I think I will stick to my cooking one recipes per week for this year. However I did learn that if you wanna accomplished anything in life, no matter how f**ing hard it is, you just got to do it.

The Time Traveler's Wife

2010-03-16T00:20:00.000-07:00

*_~ Finally, I waited for this movie to come out on DVD for almost 3 months now! Surprisingly the movie is better than the book !! I was prepared to be sad.. However they edited out 70% of the book-- all the extra characters,details and negative stuff out from the book. Unlike the book, Claire go crazy waiting for him until she's old to get a glimpse of Henry. Let's put it this way, the movie is basically the fairytale version of the book. =( Don't read the book if you wanna know the true story.. Sometimes less is more! =)

Matters of the Heart

2010-02-13T00:06:00.000-08:00

Ok, I realize I have somewhat became a Danielle Steel's fan. Especially when I have nothing to read. What can I say, I'm just comfortable reading her books.

"Matters of the Heart" -You start out liking Hope, the smart and beautiful famous photographer. Although she seem to be a strong women after her divorce to Paul. She then falls in love w/ a sociopathic actor named Finn, who is also bi-polar and a liar going after her money. At the end, Hope seem to be pretty weak and useless. It makes me wonder why do women stays w/ their abuser or allow someone to treat them that way? (Please don't say Love. )

Rouge

2010-02-03T23:10:00.000-08:00

I know I shouldn't like this book, but I do. The beginning was a bit slow, but it gets better toward the end. Blake needs to grow and he did at the end.

Best Friends Forever: A Novel

2010-01-28T09:12:00.000-08:00

=( My first Jennifer Wiener's book, so I really wanted to like this book. Mainly b/c I liked the movie, "In Her Shoes", but I was quite disappointed w/ this book. Is Addie and Valerie really best friend? Come on now... Jordan's police chase over a crush on Addie? Valerie's still the superficial person she was in high school. I do feel sorry for Addie, yet she's just so pathetic! Taking Valerie back and seeing an old man/doctor..

Twilight

2009-11-06T00:17:00.000-08:00

I read this book mainly because everyone was raving about the movie. I was, quite bored at the beginning of the first two chapters, but chapter 3 starts getting better when Edward save Bella. It wasn’t what I imagine; I thought it would be tense. (Ok, I guess if I want tense- I should read James Patterson.) The book is a great page-turner due to the fact; I wanted to know more about Bella and Edward’s relationship. Edward is really appealing and handsome and Bella, the smart, sweet and nonjudgmental girl. I feel like a teenager all over again! There’s always something sexy, passionate about vampires, perhaps because they are immortal? =) Finding your soul mate or simply because we can’t have what we want or could we?

=) Imagine meeting the family of your bf, not just any family- but a vampire family and hoping they will like you. Like “Confession of a shopaholics”, I found myself caring for the characters- I loved Edward; I feared for Bella and I cringed from James. Poor Bella panicking at the hotel, I would too.

I couldn't put this book down. I'm eager to read the next books in the series! NEW MOON! I found myself reading for hours on end, involved in what was going on. Just don’t take this book too seriously and you’ll enjoy it! I love it! Especially reading about Edward. =)

Water for Elephants

2009-09-14T00:15:00.000-07:00

I was hopelessly disappointed with the novel. The beginning was good, you feel sorry for Jacob and his life at the nursing home. You want to read more, especially after his parent were killed. So I kept thinking something great would happen between Marlena and Jacob’s love affair. At the end, Old Jacob ends up back in the circus at 90’s year old. Can’t believe Rosie, the elephant can kill Austin. However, it was interesting to read about the circus during the depressing years.

Remember Me?

2008-08-15T03:26:00.001-07:00

Imagine waking up one day into someone different and discovering that your entire world has changed. Ok this actually reminded of the movie called “13 Going On 30” instead Lexi is married w/ a gorgeous husband, great career and living the luxury life.

After a car accident, Lexi Smart wakes up to find herself 28 and fabulous but she has no recollection of the last 3 years due to amnesia. She discovers that things are very different from the way she remembers them to be, including her time on a reality television show, much like the Apprentice. She is now thinner, perfectly manicured with gorgeous hair and teeth and married to a handsome millionaire compared to previously a crooked-tooth, frizzy haired, slightly overweight low-level employee and loser bf. She associate herself w/ high society people she doesn’t even like and her friends are no longer her friends; she had a reputation for being the bitch-boss from hell.

As time goes on and Lexi tries to settle back into her life she begins to realize that a luxury life doesn't guarantee happiness. She takes an incredible journey to learn about herself through Jon, an architect her husband works with and learns what truly matters in life. The ending is fairly predictable; Lexi eventually found her way and was a much better person for it.

Confession! I'm a huge fan of Sophie Kinsella's books! This one is very good but I don't think it's as good as her others shopaholic series, which I have grown to adore for it’s laugh out loud parts. However this would make a great Cinderella city type of movie. I thought her sister Amy was funny when she told her sister that she adopted a Vietnamese boy or how her husband has a hump on his back. LOL ! It was mess up how Eric invoiced his own wife for a broken home furnish- maybe he should write a manual on how to be cheap husband.

Finally! Queen of Babble Gets Hitched !

2008-07-31T03:30:00.000-07:00

Lizzie Nichols! She says YES! Now she is engaged to a prince, Jean-Luc aka Luke. Yet, why isn’t she happy or excited? Why is she breaking out in hives every time she thinks of planning her wedding and being very thankful that Luke will be spending the summer in France. Is this a bad sign? She wonders why she’s jealous of Chaz’s new girlfriend. I mean she is engage to another man after all. Okok, I changed my mind. Don’t marry Luke! Chaz’s a sweet heart and good friend. =) Chaz is probably someone I would love to meet and even marry! He’s sweet, romantic and pay attitude to details and most important he’s funny and sarcastic, yet he knows when to be serious.

Like Paris Hilton, Ava Geck is a gum-chewing socialite and heiress who befriended Lizzie; while Lizzie is working her bridal gown. Ava is sort of like the trouble Brittney, being frequently photographed without underpants, ditches her wedding to a Greek Prince and getting involved to marry man. She is commonly referred to as a skanky crack whore. Seriously I thought Ava would cause a lot of trouble, instead she was kind of boring. How can you forget Tiffany, Monique Shari and especially Gran- it was really sad when Lizzie found out she passed away. Ok, Shari is barely mentioned in the book until the end. She should have more part; after all she is the best friend.

=) I loved the Wedding tips/facts beginning of each chapter.

1. In Roman times, the bridesmaids would wear the same identical dress to confuse, outsmart and protect the bride from evil spirits, (that goes the same for groom.) Like they say, 3x a bridesmaids never a bride because the bridesmaid is too impure w/ evil spirit.
(However, like they say “always a bridesmaid, but never a bride" and "thrice a bridesmaid, never a bride"-- an old charm that can be broken by being a bridesmaid seven times.)

2. In a Marriage: When you’re wrong: Admit it!
When you’re right: Shut up!

3. Something Old: is symbolic of continuity. Old friendships are faithful.
Something New: Good luck and success in new life.
Something Borrow: friends and family will be there for her on her special day and in the future. Basically taking the love into the marriage. (Remember to return it!)
Something Blue: is the symbol of faithfulness, purity and loyalty.

Finally I got a hold on this book and it took me 2 days to finish. I was really disappointed by the ending? Yes a wedding is between 2 people, but it’s Lizzie we are talking about- at least a small wedding. Also, I didn’t think the author should make Luke into a cheating boyfriend, just seem like it an easy way out. Then again, he could have been one. Even though Lizzie sort of suspect Luke was cheating, he didn’t spy on him, which was good. I didn’t laugh as much as I did the previous two and the whole book was pretty predictable except for the part where Gran dies. Even though I like reading about Lizzie and Chaz, Cabot should stop now; this is a very good ending to Queen of Babbles. I’m glad I waited and didn’t pay $80+ for an advance copy on ebay - a few months ago.

Ps. You gotta love diet coke!

Shopaholic and Baby

2008-07-28T15:34:00.000-07:00

Becky’s pregnant! She needs to have celebrity obstetrician, Venetia Carter- who just so happens to be Luke's ex girlfriend back when they were studying at Cambridge. Shit! Becky began to feel insecure as she felt that Venetia was out to get her husband; which she is! As usual, Becky relied on her best friend Suze for moral support. Becky sets out to save her marriage. Her tendency to jump to conclusions lands her in more than once sticky situations. Becky is assured nothing is going on, but why is Luke suddenly acting so secretive and strange and why does the lovely Dr. Carter seem so evil and manipulative? =) She’s a red headed Bitch and I hate her! Haha.. Danny’s fashion line is funny, pick your bitch.. haha. Man If I have Danny as a friend that would be a dream come true.

Wow! Becky wrote Luke a 17-page letter! Just reminded me of Rachel and Ross on the show Friends.. haha.. Becky’s Mom and Janice at the childbirth class are so funny. They would have scared the shit out of me if I were Becky or any one of the pregnant women in that class. OoOoH, Jess and Tom- that’s so cute! Jess and Becky are bonding like sisters. The store she works at (The Look) is doing horrible in business, but thanks to Becky’s idea- things are turning around.

I was bit annoyed by Luke at the beginning where he was text messaging Venetia. He seems a bit careless and like always- he’s hardly there for Becky. I was glad that he was there for Becky at her Vogue photo shoot and at the hospital. He was so sweet when he describes why he married Becky! The drama at the hospital was great to read! The ending was pretty good. Becky is actually helping Luke out- cutting down her spending a lot! She’s going to be a great stylish mom!

*_~ OK, I finish actually finished this book fast! I can’t help wonder what the next one will be? Shopaholic and Career? Shopaholic and Nanny? Oh well, it might be a while since the author is busy w/ movie. However, I know there’s will be another novel. Becky's sense of humor made this book really entertaining! =)

Shopaholic Ties the Knot

2008-07-25T03:13:00.000-07:00

Becky is now sharing an apartment and a bank account with Luke in NYC. She can finally manage with the money she has to satisfy her inner shopper. She has a fashion designer living next door, a perfect job as a personal shopper in Barneys, happy with her life of shopping and hiding the bills from Luke. The only problem she now has is Elinor, Luke's mom.

Suze is about to get married to Tarquin. Danny’s right, it’s kind of gross b/c they’re cousins. At the wedding, in which Becky is the maid of honor, Luke and Suze tricked Becky to catch the traditional bridal bouquet, and along with the bouquet is a note from Luke asking Becky to marry him. Her world suddenly changes when Luke proposes to her at Suze's wedding. Man, why can’t I have a best friend like Suze? She’s the only one that can really knock some sense into Becky. I thought it was sweet how she spill coffee on Becky’s mother wedding dress, so Becky doesn’t have to wear something so ridiculous!

Becky's mother wants her to get married back in England w/ friends and family; while Luke's overbearing mother wants an all-out, no expenses spared, fairy tale wedding at the Plaza. Since she can’t say no to both, Becky’s hides the truth that she is having 2 weddings on same day on different continents. She needs to pick one and when she decides she wants the London wedding w/ people she knows, she tries to back out of the New York wedding but she would be sue $100,000 by the wedding planner. If she backs out of the London wedding, it would break her family’s heart? What should she do? Who can she tells without them getting mad at her?

I thought the novel was a bit long and stretched out w/ the wedding dilemmas-whether to have wedding in London or New York. I assume that Becky would know more about planning a wedding after all she is a shopaholic, but she leaves all the planning to her mom and the wedding planner. This was my least favorite in the series; Sophie should have extended the ending a bit longer. I liked the last few chapters because it was sweet! You see a different side of Luke that makes you feel bad for the poor boy. Luke is a lucky guy to have found somebody as interesting as Becky or was it vice versa. Haha.. Ok Becky is not the brightest girl, but this silly warmed hearted character that tends to always get in trouble from her shopping habits and her warm-less white lies will grow on you! So does the other characters, especially charming Luke. Now I can finally read “Shopaholic and baby.” Yay! I hope that’s not the last book.

Fave parts:Luke and Becky have a joint account for their hold house expenses. The bank refuses Becky’s suggestions of neither changing a purchase on the bank statement from “Prada New York” to Gas Station nor splitting the statement in half, so Luke wouldn’t find out. Luke and Becky argue whether a MuMu skirt really a household expense? Funny how Becky’s mom thinks her daughter is pregnant. Also, how Becky’s tries to named her child after famous designers- How lame can one get. =)

Shopaholic Takes Manhattan

2008-07-22T02:36:00.000-07:00

Shopaholic Takes Manhattan

In the beginning when Luke and Becky are away for a weekend in the country; Becky ship off her clothes to the hotel but realized it wasn’t there when she arrives. She panic but manage to stay calm until her clothes arrived. I agree w/ Becky that good luggage is a good investment. The treadmill part was hilarious; I can't help but laugh out loud that I had tears in my eyes! Later at a dinner, she found out it was her bf’s new business partners. How embarrassing! Haha..

As Becky finds herself in the shopping districts of Manhattan, we can hardly expect her to pass up on all of the savings! From designer sample sales to visiting the Guggenheim-well not the actual museum; Sample sale-marked down 50-70 percent off. =) Girls, You know you don't need them. You buy them anyway b/c you're saving money. It happens to us sometimes, just not extreme as Becky. She always had an excuse to shop or why she needs it. She then starts spending money like crazy, runs up debt, and avoids paying her bills and end up getting herself in even bigger trouble than she in London.

Her past catches up with her; her financial situation is splashed all over the front page of "Daily World", a tabloid in London has reported about London's top financial consultant Becky owes many pounds to London shops and still spends her time shopping till she drops in all of New York's finest stores. All of the sudden, her New York prospects are not interested in her. Things get pretty out-of-hand when she’s back in London; she was fired from her job. She tries to stay positive but it’s so hard that she got depress for a few days.

She comes to her senses and realizes she must pay off her debts. I agree w/ Becky, ‘When you get yourself into a mess; take action to get yourself out.“ She manages pay off her debts; keep Luke from losing his business completely without him knowing until the end. I’m proud of her for raising money and paying off her debt completely w/out taking the money from Tarquin. Luke finally shows up at the airport to stop Becky from leaving, he begs her to stay and even offer her a job so she wouldn’t have to leave. He even thank her for secretly helping him save his company and tells her that it was not her fault but instead he got her into this mess. At the end, I’m glad she didn’t drop everything like she did for Luke to go to New York; instead she leaves Luke in London to go pursuit her new career in the America. (Sometimes we need to do things for ourselves.)

I think this was my favorite sequel. It’s simple, fun and very entertaining book. =) Luke's reactions were even funnier and now I really wish I had a friend like Suze. I did in fact stay up all night reading it; the last few chapters were so good. =) I think I should just start reading the last few chapters of all books.

Suzanne's Diary for Nicholas

2008-07-17T03:17:00.000-07:00

Wow, I had always compared James Patterson to Stephen King or Tom Clancy for their great mystery thriller- totally not my types of novels but great for films. The lady at Barnes & Noble suggested that I should give this book a try since I do like Nicholas Sparks. These days, I just like reading something funny and silly - just like watching a chick flick.

I felt like I was reading one of Spark’s novels that contain some life lessons in it. In this case, “Everyone should live life as happy as possible, as though it was your last day.” Great story line and plot, still I felt the story could have written a little better. Beginning of the story, you feel sympathy for Katie even though she’s the other woman. As you read the Suzanne’s diary along w/ her, you learned to like Suzanne w/ Matt like Katie did. Of Course, you can already predict that Suzanne will die. I was a bit sad when I heard what happen to Nicholas. I guess life really doesn’t always goes as plan. The end was alright.

=) Now, I need to get back to my silly “Shopaholic” series…

Time for bed!

Shopaholic and Sister

2008-07-14T04:33:00.000-07:00

Dang! At the beginning of the story, Becky and Luke are still on their 10 months round-the-world honeymoon! =) Must be nice! It has actually been one very long world-traveling shopping spree for Becky without Luke finding out until they’re back in London. How much can one buy? Well, then you don’t really know Becky. He jokingly gives her a $20p per week allowances (for fun), she secretly manage to sell all her honeymoon junk on ebay for extra income; at the end the truth always comes out when she accidentally sold something that doesn’t belong to her.

When the couple returns to London from Milan. Becky finds her world has turned upside down. Suze has replaced her with an insufferable woman named LuLu. Then she was surprise when her parents introduced her long-lost sister, Jess. Becky’s particularly eager to have a sister as she felt that her best friend, Suze, had replaced Becky while she was away. Becky dreams of them going shopping together and laughing the way sisters do. However they are totally opposite, Jess saves money wherever possible from reusing coffee grounds to makes kitchen scourers out of old onion bags. Jess seems to only be interested in rocks and doesn't want to really get to know her new family. While Becky thinks nothing of spending 2000 Euros on an Angel handbag in Milan and continues to hope that there is something there, some sisterly bond that will link the two women.

Of course, things don’t always goes as planned. They argue to the point where they don’t talk to each other, after some time Becky decided she wouldn’t give up. She then goes visit Jess and then learned about her sister’s life. Finally after a few misunderstanding and a broken ankle, they bonded and became good friends/sister. At the end, she realized Luke is not mad at her and Suze does care about her.

A few of favorite parts from the novels: At the beginning of story during their honeymoon in Sri Lanka, she didn’t realize she ran over hot coals to catch up with the man who was selling some jewelry; then Luke makes fun of her. When she has an emergency credit card hidden in her compacts-Code Red! Haha. Coming back from London, Luke discovers she brought 2-truck load of junks and demand her to clear out the junks. The part where she supposes to go horseback riding, instead she went shopping w. the horse.

Ok, =) I’m hooked on Sophie Kinsella’s novels. It’s just fun and relaxing to read, especially after a stressful day or week. Yes, her books are not for everyone especially NOT for GUYS! Becky Bloomwood can be very annoying and irritating, but is still loveable just like her sexy husband Luke! Ok, Somehow I skipped “Shopaholic Takes Manhattan” and “Shopaholic Ties the Knot”. I can’t wait to read it and then back to “Shopaholic and Baby”. I wonder if this would be the end? I hope not… =(

Confessions of a Shopaholic

2008-07-10T01:48:00.000-07:00

Comparing to “Can you keep a secret?” The beginning was quite slow and not as exciting! I could actually relate to Rebecca’s compulsive shopping habits, making excuses why I need to buy! Buy! Buy! Well, that was the old me in my 20's, where I did max out my cards but I never missed a payment. Harrod’s definitely reminded me of London! Expensive as hell, just like Nieman Marcus.

Rebecca is a journalist for a magazine called Successful Savings; her job is like a total lie. She can’t even manage her own money but yet she has a job where she is supposed to help other people manage their money. She overdraws her bank account and max out her Visa card.Becky just can't go a day without spending money! Her addiction to shopping, her increasing debt and her compulsive lying gets her into deeper trouble!

She tries to change her ways by changing her spending habits but only ends up making it worst. If Becky sees anything she likes she has to go and buy it right then and there. People have contacted Becky for payment and she keeps on ignoring them. She knows she needs to pay it back sooner or later but yet she keeps on spending.

I laughed when she was trying to make curry to save money but end up spending more, b/c I've done the same thing she did with baking a cheese cake. I liked the part where she thinks she has the winning lottery numbers, thinking of marrying a wealthy man -and also the part where she lied on her resume and got caught running out. Like automatic millionaires, she tracks down what she spent and shock by how much she had just spent that day. She even gets a job at the clothes store, but get fires on the very first day. There’s something sexy about the named LUKE! The ending was quick and I wish it were longer. Nevertheless, I’m glad everything worked out for her, where she got not 1 but 2 glamorous jobs; in which doesn’t happen in real life. I’m so glad she did not take Brad Pittish’s check of $5k (pounds). No matter how poor a person is, they have to have some moral and common sense.

=) If you like shopping and laughing you should read this delightful book This book will definitely brings out the inner shopaholic in us all ! I recommend this book to all the younger girls out there that plan to get their first credit card.

Ps.
=) The movie is coming out! yay!Release Date: February 13, 2009

Can You Keep a Secret?

2008-07-06T17:48:00.000-07:00

Danielle Steel get out of the way! Haha.. This was my first Sophie Kinsella’s novel. I just loved it! Great weekend book, or in my case: 4th of July weekend. Like Meg Cabot, these authors relate to our ages and their books are so cute, charming, fun, light humorous and entertaining to read. Don’t get me wrong; “Sisters” by Danielle Steel is still my favorite book. Yet, her book is always about the rich and sometimes famous-something I can’t relate. Wow, I can’t wait to start the Shopaholic series! She has so much cute novel out. Yay!

25 years old Emma Corrigan is a marketing secretary at Panther Cola. She is a bit naive, but a fun character you learn to love. Emma truly believes her life is right on track. She has an enjoyable job, good boyfriend, and good friends. Yet she has struggled to find her way to make her relationships with others smoother by telling them mostly what they want to hear; while she's not happy.

After a terrible business meeting in Scotland, Emma has a few to drinks in the airport and on the plane. Like anyone, she got quite a few secrets she's never told anyone, until she reveals her darkest and most humiliating secrets to a handsome stranger on a plane; thinking that she'll never see him again. Come Monday morning she walks into the office and finds out that he (Jack Harper) is actually the owner of the Panther Corp. Jack sets the stage for the ultimate betrayal by blurting out all her secrets on TV! Now everyone knows! Her family, Her friends and coworker all knows her secrets, She is horrified humiliated! What happen now?

Can You Keep a Secret? Seriously, Have you told a secret to one person and not another? Who do you trust you secrets too? And have you ever blurted out someone's secret accidentally without meaning to harm the person entrusting you with that secret? If you like silly, funny stories and English accents, then this one is for you! There’s something about the English accents that’s so sexy! =) You’ll learn to love Jack and Lazzy; but gets annoyed by Emma’s co-worker, cousin Kerry and flat mate Jemima. Any woman trying to balance work and romance can see herself in these situations. There are parts that will make you laugh out loud!

=) The lady at the library told me this book might become a movie?
So I did a quick search, seem like they are?? Yay! I can’t wait! Unless I’m wrong.

http://www.countingdown.com/movies/3519881

He's Just Not That Into You: The No-Excuses Truth to Understanding Guys: Greg Behrendt,Liz Tuccillo..

2008-06-29T16:23:00.000-07:00

No matter how smart we are! When it comes to love, we’ll get confuse at times. Just another relaxing day at the bookstores; this book is simple, fun and a quick read. but worthwhile.

Especially when we first meet someone new, we waste precious time doing the whether "he loves me, he loves me not" thing. It's painful when a woman likes a man and he doesn't return the feelings. Do not get invested with a guy until you see how he treats you. Do not settle for less.

The book provide the rubbish you may be telling yourself when you come up with reasons (make excuses for) behavior that you would normally know was absurd, but you are identifying with the other person to the point that you have lost perspective. I think the authors realize this, and have produced a book that is honest and astonishingly optimistic.

This is a must-read for all women, regardless of whether or not they are in a relationship. However the author might be a little harsh on guys, I mean everyone is different! I know that there are reasons that relationships don't work out and it’s not always the guy’s fault. It’s a two-way street!

Ps. I can’t wait to see the movie.

Skinny Bitch

2008-05-23T16:05:00.000-07:00

Yes! Who doesn’t want to be a skinny bitch? Well, a nice skinny bitch that is. To tell you the truth, I was very disappointed! I wanted to see what all the fuss was about and why it’s on the New york best sellers’ list. The title of the book is pretty deceiving since this is not a diet book. However this book does feel like it’s written by 2 former models, -- well, at least they are eating. If you’re not ready to be a vegan, then don’t read this book- you’re just wasting your time.

Basically I felt like I was reading an old research paper, the authors seem like they don’t have all their facts and info. There is some good info. and points in the book, such as avoiding aspartame, animal cruelty etc. Being a vegan, doesn’t mean you’re going to be skinny nor healthier, well maybe a little healthier than a meat eater. I guess I’ll take my chances.

Eat, Pray, Love

2008-03-24T04:49:00.002-07:00

Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia

Eat=Italy, Pray=India and Love=Indonesia.

I actually enjoyed this book a bit. It’s basically her memoir through Italy, India and Indonesia from dealing her sadness to happiness. For me, I thought it was a great travelogue; philosophy and a self help book ß sort of. After her divorce, she got her courage to travel the world alone at the age of 34. It must be nice to be able to just take off a year and travel. I’ll definitely do that if I win the lotto.

At the beginning, I liked how she describes Loneness and Depression as though it was a person. I thought if was funny when she’s learning how to meditate in India, and her minds just wonders off. (I’m having the same problem right now, still learning how to meditate.)

There are a few points in the book that I agree w/ her.

We are just way too harsh and violent on ourselves!
Liz is a control freak, just like me. (Need to let go.)
We should be able to control our mind (thoughts) like we choose our clothes.
Need to learn to have faith and believe in destiny, though it’s true that we are able to control some of our destiny.
Make peace with ourselves.
Understanding why we have negative thoughts and finding ways to let them go.
Smile = good energy.

For anyone that ever wanted to find his or her own path, this book might help you a bit. I have come to find a great amount of peace and healing with my own imperfections from reading about someone else's.

Queen of Babble

2008-02-26T17:19:00.000-08:00

=) I was so excited to read this book, b/c I really wanted to know how Lizzie meets Luke. Lizzie's not a deep thinker and her ability to fall in and out of love –which was why I thought she was fun to read about. Maybe I could have been Lazzie, well sort of.. She’s off to England to stay w/ her boyfriend Andrew for a month.Whom She feels is the man of her dreams, her future husband; however her trip turns into a nightmare. She realize he has a gambling problem and that he's trying to defraud the British government, and that there are a few other things that make him less desirable than she'd originally thought.

So now, Lizzie is stuck in London with no boyfriend and no place to stay until the departure date on her non-refundable ticket. Meanwhile, Lizzie's best friend, Shari is spending the summer in southern France, catering weddings with her boyfriend, Chaz, in a sixteenth century château own by Luke’s family. Luckily, having an open invitation from Shari, she takes the train to visit them in France.

While on board, she spills her heart, soul and a few other things she would never have said out loud to the handsome young stranger sitting next to her, if she hadn't known she was never going to see him again...until she gets off at her station, he gets off with her and confess he’s Luke, her host for the next few weeks. =) Now, that was an awkward, embarrassing but funny moment.

Of course, Lizzie's ever moving mouth gets her in trouble. Lizzie's fashion talents shine when she is called upon to help restore a vintage wedding dress and saves the day. At the end, Luke finally dumps Dominique, the gold digger. I’m starting to like Luke more, since I thought it was sweet how they meet and how he got jealous when Andrew came to France to get Lazzie back or her money, what a loser! Ok, after this book.. Lazzie definitely should marry Luke. He’s sweet and down to earth. Chaz should remain good friends; after all he was Shari’s ex. Even though I probably don't think Shari mind at all, yet morally I just don’t think it’s right. Oh well, I guess I’ll find out soon.

Yes! I can’t wait for book #3 “QUEEN OF BABBLE GETS HITCHED” around summer. I even try betting for an advance copy on ebay and didn’t win. I refuse to pay $80 for a book that probably cost me $20, so I guess I have no choice but to wait! =(

A Million Little Pieces

2008-02-17T16:07:00.000-08:00

Yes! I picked up this book only after the scandal broke out involving the authorand the lies in the book and w/Oprah. I was curious what the big deal was about. What more can I say? I loved it! Yes, who the hell cares whether it’s true or not, it’s a great story! Beside how could someone believe this is real, come on people! (Some parts are just ridiculousness! He hits a cop w/ his car and then goes to jail for 3 months.)

So what if he did embellished the story, it makes it more interesting. I liked his writing style, it’s different, raw, and easy to understand - draws your attention. Maybe b/c he keeps using the F word; which I didn’t mind at all. After all he is a recovering crack addict; James gives you a look into the harsh world of addiction and makes you want to NEVER become addicted to anything or else you’ll turn into one of them or worst like the girlfriend.

"The Secret"

2008-02-05T13:39:00.000-08:00

“The Secret” is YOU! I’ve always wondering why Jane wanted this book so bad after watching the Oprah’s show. Great philosophy book I must say! I felt enlightening already. =) The Secret," brought me back on track. It truly changed my mindset and thinking about life.. Having a positive out look in life and loving you then others makes all the difference. I believe everyone needs some positive reinforcement every now and then and this book will do. It is easy to read and it keeps your attention. You want to read more.

The Secret is the law of attraction: the power to have positive thoughts and goals to achieve. The secret will help you become, do, or achieve anything you set your mind to. Your thoughts become things! And if you realize that this book is NOT just about 'positive thinking' it is HOW to live your life and achieve happiness, Health, and Wealth. You must be on the right frequency for it to work for you. Then it’s going to brings out the potential in you and enable you to realize and achieve your highest goals and live life to the fullest.
It is never to late to change yours. Your mind is a powerful tool use to your advantage.

Yes! I’m going to try and put the SECRET to work and see if I can achieve more things in my "Life""

The Automatic Millionaire: A Powerful One-Step Plan to Live and Finish Rich

2008-02-01T14:36:00.000-08:00

=) This is my favorite book! I consider this book is a must read for anyone just starting out in life or anyone who wants a secure life and don’t want to worry about retirement. I couldn’t put it down! Where were you 10 years ago? I’m so glad I saw you on Oprah. It’s amazing how compounding interest works. This book had got me basically rethinking before I spend money, after all I do want to retire comfortably. I’m definitely going to pay myself first and then everyone else still gets paid after or as usual and on time. =) 2008 is starting to look bright, thanks to the guidance of this book

How to pay off your mortgage early, the latte Factor and to pay yourself first is brilliant by automatically deduct contributions to 401k and auto deduct to savings etc. It’s amazing how much I’ve wasted over the years and how much a little saved each week can add up so quickly. Stop buying budgeting books and buy this book! Cause budgeting doesn’t always work. If you want more peace and security about finances, this is definitely the book to read. By the way, it only works if you actually set up the automatic plan David has laid out for you.

The Money Book for the Young, Fabulous & Broke

2008-01-11T16:32:00.000-08:00

Ok, I finally finish this book. I had it for almost 4 years on my shelves colleting dust; while I did read some chapters but not the whole book. The best part about this book is that it’s straightforward and divided into ten chapters on general topics. From understanding your FICO score to planning for retirement, this book has it all.

I would have gotten into a bigger mess with credit, if it hadn't been for her books and The Oprah show- the debt diet helped me on paying off my debt, yet I should also thank this book for making sense for the reasons why I was in debt. I brought this book mainly because I can relate to the title, if I can make it through this financial mess that I have created, so too can the rest of the world. This book is great for anyone who is having difficulty getting started with his or her personal finances.

H.R.H.

2007-12-22T09:20:00.000-08:00

Do yourself a favor and skip this one. It was ok at the beginning of the story, but it was just boring and really dull after a while. Toxic Bachelors doesn’t seem as bad as this one. Yet I was hoping it will get better. Lonely princess get bores and convinces her father, gets to volunteer for a humanitarian organization in East Africa and finds love along the way. Even though Christiania has a good heart, I just didn’t like her too much.

At the beginning, she mentioned she had duty to fill as a princess, how she has to sacrifice her life because her brother didn’t; Yet throughout the story I found her really selfish; it’s all about her and the bf, instead of the family. I really disliked the ending at all, I thought it was stupid and yes it could happen but still. The ending was lane and quick! Ok, it’s time to give Daniel Steel’s novels a break. Some are good and some aren’t. This is was just terrible!

Toxic Bachelors

2007-12-13T01:17:00.000-08:00

3 bachelors (Gray, Charlie and Adam) were great friends. They would spend every August together on Charlie's yacht to party in the Mediterranean. Throughout the novel each of them learn to face their relationship phobias. Of course, it takes 3 fabulous women to set them straight! Haha.

It didn’t seem like Steel wrote this novel, the writing style seems a little different from the others. I mean, the typical Steel’s romance is there but I do not feel connected to the characters. I’m a little tired of reading about rich people-let alone 3 very immature guys and how they lived their lives, a little vain that’s all. The only part I liked was how they meet these wonderful women and how it changed their lives forever. It has a cute happy ending that I liked; yet the novel was all right for me, a bit long though.

Answered Prayers

2007-12-08T03:13:00.000-08:00

For some odd reason I liked this novel, I guess mainly b/c it’s similar Dating Game w/out the dating part. Faith was indeed a perfect housewife and mother in a lifeless marriage that she confesses at the beginning of the story. After raising her daughter, she realizes she wanted to go back to Law school, but her controlling husband thinks it’s a stupid idea, especially at her age and tries to stop her but fails.

Throughout the whole story, you see Brad and Faith's friendship picks up from childhood and develops over again. They supported and believed in each other during hard times through emails and by phone. At the end, I’m glad to see them together. Alex on the other hand was such a jerk, cheating on his wife and blaming her for his cheating and worst turning one of the daughter against her mother. Luckily the girls found out the truth about their father.

Life has its up and downs and unexpected things do happen, but you choose what you want to do. I guess I liked the book, mainly because I learn that I don’t ever want to be like Faith! When someone betrays you and treat you like shit, why would you want that someone back? It just saddens me to see that people do stay in such a hideous marriage simply for the sake of not getting divorced.

I think everyone needs someone to support him/her whether it’s through good and bad times. I’m glad Faith and Brad had each other, I guess sometimes we don’t realize who are soul mates is until it’s too late or is it, in this case. I think it would have been a better story if they remain friends.

Amazing Grace

2007-12-01T02:11:00.000-08:00

OK, I admit I liked the cover! This books revolves around a San Francisco bay area earth quake (this really hits home.) and how it effects the lives of 3 women, from stranger to best of friends. There are times I questioned myself (if I were Sarah) whether I would have forgiven my husband for what he did? After all he did lie but wasn’t cheating.. Trust is really important, especially between a husband and wife. Melanie somehow reminded me of Mandy Moore and somehow I thought it was weird reading about Maggie, the nun’s falling in love and trying to deny it. Overall, This book was alright, I like how it takes place in the city. =)

Kabul Beauty School

2007-11-27T16:13:00.000-08:00

Kabul Beauty School: An American Woman Goes Behind the VeilThis book is basically about the author and her personal journey of divorcing her abusive American husband. Arriving in Afganistan and tells her story of her new Afgan husband, the different cultures, friendships, her beauty school, her students and the struggles she goes through to keep her beauty school open in Afghanistan. She did this the way she knew best, by helping to teach them to become beauticians, which would provide each with a living and allowing them to have their own business.

It’s difficult for a spoiled American girl like myself to imagine what women in many other parts of the world endure every day, day in and day out. (eg beaten, or dragged from their homes.) Husband having 3 wives or so; divorcing you as simple as saying “ I divorce you” 3x in front of a witness and you’re divorced and worst you’re not allow to take the kids-according to the laws, it belongs to the husband. I give her credit for her courage for what she has done, I know I wouldn’t have the courage as she did.

Dating game

2007-11-01T13:03:00.000-07:00

Life is cruel! Nevertheless, Life must go on! *_~ I’m starting to love and learn from Steel’s novel, there are lessons to be learned in disappointment and joy to be found in the most unexpected places.

After 24 happy years, out of the blues without any warming the woman gets dumped by husband when he leaves her for a younger woman, and then she is left to pick up the pieces. Peter was selfish and I know it’s life and it does happen. She is devastated with the loss of the only life she's known and loves. Her friends try to help her, but sometimes I believe that it’s better to let someone figure what one wants, instead of feeling pity for someone.

It gets interesting and fun to read as we go on Paris dating experience with her. We live with her through her sadness and joys and the struggle to find her self. We live through her ups and downs, the men and women she meets and befriends and the twist of fate when her daughter marries while Paris is dating a younger man. The best aspect about this book though was all of the funny dates Paris goes on- good and bad. I wish I could have a best friend like Bix Mason, which would be so great! Still, I didn’t think Paris should have adopted Hope, because she didn’t want to lonely. At the end, it was great!

Sisters

2007-10-10T16:08:00.000-07:00

=) This was my first Daniel Steel’s novel. I loved the beginning of the novel, the glamorous life of each sister, especially Candy. Dang! I was surprise w/ all the cussing, but I actually liked it- making it seem more real. It’s about four sisters with highly successful and interesting careers. Sabrina (34) is the oldest sister, a very hard working attorney in New York. Tammy (29) is a successful producer in LA, while Annie (26) is an artist in Florence. Lastly, Candy (21) was the youngest of the group; she was a modest but famous supermodel known all around the world.

No matter how busy they are, the sisters will always make time to return to the home the families annul 4th of July party. A tragic accident changes their lives suddenly, and they have to learn to cope with everything that's happen. They all decide to change their lives so they can support one another. Life is turned upside down. Her sisters all pull together though, and make sacrifices to live together for a year until Annie can become independent. Over the next year each of the sisters are there for each other. Candy can no longer hide her eating disorder, Annie struggles with being unable to paint, Tammy adapts to having real life relationships and Sabrina deals with her commitment phobia. While the dad is going through his own ordeal.

I loved this novel, because it’s about four sisters coming together seeking comfort from a tragedy- their heartache and family bonding.. I really don't want to say much more about the story as it would spoil it for you and I don't want to do that. Each one of these girls was great and I honestly believed I could be Tammy. The power of sister hood, I would do anything for my sisters and I know they will do the same for me. =)

A walk to Remember

2007-08-22T01:57:00.000-07:00

Nicholas Sparks ! You’ve turn this girl who didn’t believe in love into optimism hopeless romantic. Shame on you! Even though, this is fiction. It teaches us a valuable lesson about life and how we sometimes take life for granted. If you like the movie, you’ll love the novel a lot more- it set in 1958 in a small town of South Carolina. You’ll feel for Jamie because she’s sort of the plain Jane that helps out at the local orphanage, heals wounded animals, and is kind to everyone she meets. (You don’t see that around anymore.) Landon is simply a boy with no idea what direction his life will take when he unexpectedly finds himself becoming a man with the help of Jamie. There’s part the movie left out and I wish they added it in, like how their love blossom from the homecoming dance but then again it might be too long. Despite its very bittersweet ending, this novel teaches us faith and trust and living our lives to the fullest. The movie should have added or at least mention the part about Landon’s love for Jamie even 40 years after she's gone.

Yes, I actually picture Mandy as Jamie and of course Shane as Landon. Jamie and Landon are wonderful characters that will make you laugh and cry. Especially when Jamie finally tells Landon that she has terminal leukemia and has stopped responding to treatments. Where she’s not afraid to die but to leave Landon, I was in tears. Mainly because it reminded me of an auntie who passed away from cancer a few years back, she wanted to live because she had an infant son-her only one. =( I still remember the day we visit her in the hospital, I knew how much she missed her son but didn’t want her son to see how weak she was nor how much weight she had lost. Life really not fair at time! Lastly, as always Sparks’ novel teach us about tragedy, triumph, and also teaches a real lesson about love and life-cherish one another. Sometimes all we need is that one person who can truly make a difference in our life.

2007-08-08T04:31:00.000-07:00

Have anyone watched the movie "The Notebook" or "A Walk to remember". Since I enjoyed both movies, I decided to read “The Rescue” by Nicholas Sparks. I just got done reading “The Rescue” , it’s about finding yourself, loving and trusting others, receiving love, and enjoying companionship- and in doing so, teaching us something about our own. Also, the hardships that every person goes through at some point in their life.

The novel is about a single mom (Denise) and her 4 year old son (Kyle), whom gets into a car accident in the midst of a terrible rainstorm. As Denise is lying there, unconscious, Kyle wanders off and gets lost. A volunteer fireman (Taylor) from the town, spots the car and helps Denise, then finds her son. Basically it’s about Denise's relationship with her son as well as the relationship she and Taylor McAden have begun to develop and the struggles behind each one, become the main focus of the novel. At some point in the story, I was laughing, teary, and frustrated - all at the same time. I have to admit it was a little slow in the beginning of the novel, but the last 6-7 chapters were great!

Queen of Babble in the Big City

2007-07-07T02:00:00.000-07:00

Easy to read! But it was a cute and relaxing novel. She’s also the author to the “Princess’ dairies”. The plot was predictable, but in a good way. I guess I liked this silly novel, simply b/c I think I would have been Lizzie in NYC! So much of what she does can be related to real life. Lizzie was moving a bit too fast--wanting to get married at such a young age and wanting to get that serious when they had only been dating a couple of months. Lizzie is such a realistic character and she is so funny and real! Lizzie now lives in New York and is living with her boyfriend, Luke, and is looking for a job. She finds one but... they don't pay. So what is she going to do for money? Then she’s homeless.

Yes! I can’t wait for book #3 “QUEEN OF BABBLE GETS HITCHED” in June 2008. I wonder if she would say yes to Luke? or give Chaz a chance. Ok, I know Chaz is the perfect guy for Lizzie, but still he was her best friends’ ex-boy friend of 4 years! And worst, Luke and Chaz are best friends. Sorry. If I was really Lizzie- Chaz will always be my good friend, regardless how much we have in common. Oh well, I guess I have to wait for the new novel. Meanwhile, I need to read book #1 “Queen of Babble book”, that way I know how Lizzie meet Luke.

Rich Dad, Poor Dad

2007-06-06T02:33:00.000-07:00

This book did have some interesting insights and tips. Robert Kiyosaki tells the story of two fathers, a poor teacher who is highly educated, and a rich, self-taught millionaire with no college degree. I like how Kiyosaki’s perspective that we should stop working for money, and make money work for you! I also agree that it takes a change in your mindset in order for you to become rich. It has some good advice about personal finance. Personal finance was something I was never taught while growing up. Looking back, I wish I had been taught it, instead of having to learn some of these things the hard way. $38 K lesson learned! But like he say it’s never too late! Overall I would recommend it, especially to younger people.

Ok, after reading this book. It gave me some hope that it’s not too late. I guess you really you don't have to go to college to run a business, look at Bill Gates! But you do need to have some financial intelligence. I was thinking if school really helped me in life? I believe schools prepare us just to go to college and get a high paying job. That works for some people, but not everyone like me. Most of richest people in the world have knowledge of these 3 subjects: Real estate, the stock market and the business world. Why don't they teach theses subjects in high school? So, why not teach young people about real estate, the stock market, business, and personal finances on how to budget? I know, our economy depends on us to consume Real estate is another skill that will be helpful in life. Most people will purchase a home at some point. Wouldn't it be nice to have an understanding of the real estate market at a younger age, so we can learn how to save? Instead of letting a salesperson sell them something that they don't want or understand. If only I knew, I could have brought a house right after high school and be worth half a mil. Instead I’m stuck w/ a stupid timeshare. Oh, well.. I guess we learn from our mistakes!