Sean Platt & David W. Wright: "Monstrous" // E-Book Review

To my surprise, my dad recently bought me a Samsung Tab 3 which I am completely in love with. I found out that my device was eligible for a free e-book download every month if I activated a Samsung Kindle account, so I went for it. From a choice of four e-books that I'd never heard of or been recommended, I decided to download 'Monstrous' by Sean Platt/David W. Wright, which seemed the most "me". Of course, there was a supernatural element to it, but also a gothic element, which I thought would help me on my A2 English Literature course this  September... if I pass my exams.

The book is about a well-off comedian called Henry, who lives comfortably with his wife, Samantha, and their daughter Amèlie. One day their sizeable house is broken into, but it seems the only thing the attackers want is Henry's life, and his daughter's. Henry and Amèlie end up killed and in Purgatory, although separated, where Henry meets a man in white and a man in black. Instead of waiting for his judgement from God, the man in black - Boothe - persuades Henry to go back to the Earth plane as one of the undead, to seek revenge on his (and Amèlie's) killer. However, Henry is turned into a monster who feeds from violence and sorrow.

I didn't really connect with this book. Henry was just so easily persuaded by Boothe and Randall (the men in white and black), forever jostling with his alliance to one or the the other, that by the end it was completely unconvincing. Noone can be that indecisive. Also, there were a lot of profanities, which wouldn't normally bother me, but there were so many that it just seemed forced and cheesy. One thing I did like about the book was that for a long while I was never really sure about who was the bad guy out of Randall and Boothe. There's a massive plot twist at the end of the book, which I also liked, even though it was sad enough to be sickening.

To keep up with what I'm reading, visit my Goodreads page here: www.goodreads.com/meaghanbethany

Tim Weaver: "Vanished" (David Raker #3) // Review

"For millions of Londoners, the morning of 16th December is just like any other. But not for Sam Wren. An hour after leaving home, he gets on to a Tube train - and never gets off again. No eyewitnesses. No trace of him on security cameras. Six months later, he's still missing. Sam's wife hires David Raker to track him down, but in this case the secrets go deeper than anyone imagined. For, as Raker starts to suspect that even the police are lying to him, someone is watching."

Vanished, the third book in Tim Weaver's David Raker series, was given to me one Christmas by my mum, who (bless her) doesn't really know much about my reading taste other than, well, I like books. So, after unwrapping the book from the paper and having a glance at the blurb, it laid on my shelf - an anomaly - for some time. One day, I decided to force myself to read it, and, to my surprise, found myself enjoying it. Now I'm a little bit more grateful that my mum doesn't really know what to buy me, because it means I end up with books that I'd never have read otherwise. David Raker is an ex-journalist turned private detective; a man who has lost his own wife to cancer, dedicated to finding the missing. But it all comes at a cost. Sam is a man many believed to have been squeaky clean, but could he have been wrapped up in something much darker than anyone expected? As Raker hunts him down and gets deeper and deeper into the case, the lines become distorted until soon enough, Raker may be hunting a murderer. 

Something I love about this book is that it keeps you constantly guessing - you desperately want to know how Sam managed to get off the train unseen, why he left, and where he is now. Unfortunately for us, Weaver is a master of pacing and misdirection; which means that most of the second half of the novel isn't much about Sam at all, but about those that Raker suspects drove him away. Honestly, I can't say much about the plot without revealing something important that you shouldn't know; which just shows you how closely interwoven the story is. It leads you everywhere, to people and places you'd never expect. I really, really, enjoyed it, even though I'd never in my wildest dreams have picked up a detective/mystery/crime novel before this week. I hadn't even read the previous books in the series, although that didn't turn out to be much of a problem. 

I would definitely recommend this to anyone who is hesitant about getting into crime novels because, although you can play detective, you don't have to be chief of police to understand what's going on in the novel - though it's professional, it's not at all difficult for the Average Joe to interpret. Vanished is an awesome starting point for anyone who's unsure. But, be warned, the action goes on until the very last page...

Rating: ★★★★ 1/2

Great read, the only thing it really lacks is star quality and hype.

Ned Vizzini: "It's Kind of a Funny Story" // Review

~~~CONTAINS SPOILERS~~~

I was introduced to this book by my friend Jack (whose blog you can find HERE) some time ago when I was looking for a book from Waterstones. There was only one copy left in stock and it was a bit battered but, after considering a couple of other book suggestions, I decided Vizzini's book was most different from what I usually read. Predominantly it's about learning to live with depression, and finding your 'Anchor'. It's Kind of a Funny Story is as truly inspirational for sufferers as influential in changing the mindset of parents with depressed children and teenagers.

Something I really admire about Vizzini's writing in this novel is the simple terminology he is able to apply to such massively complex emotional states, which other people would no doubt struggle to describe. For example, an 'Anchor' is/can be something you enjoy which keeps you stable and grounded amidst your emotional turmoil. In contrast, 'Tentacles' was the name given to all the chores you have to endure which can worsen your mental health. (Simple, yet genius.) Craig's depression begins when he's accepted into a prestigious school, where he finds that all the classes and homework (his Tentacles) are just too much, and, after discontinuing his own medication, begins to sink even lower until he hits rock bottom; contemplating suicide. At the start of the novel I empathised and identified with Craig, although I didn't really connect with him because the reader only ever sees him when he's miserable or horny.

You do begin to connect with him, however, when his almost-suicide-attempt leads to him being admitted onto a psychiatric ward, where his personality begins to shine through thanks to all the eccentric and similarly troubled patients he meets there. Craig becomes likeable, or at least, more so. This point is definitely the best in the book; it's so uplifting to read about him finding friends and his love of art, which is enough to make him change his lifestyle and realise that his school was the problem all along. Importantly, It's Kind of a Funny Story was a semi-autobiographical novel detailing Vizzini's own teenage experience during a short stay in a psychiatric ward. At the end of the novel, Craig, who closely resembles Vizzini in many ways, certainly finds some kind of peace of mind. The same was true for Vizzini after his stay, up until his unexpected suicide in December 2013. I knew about the author's death prior to reading the book, so as well as being Craig's story, it also became Ned's. It was a saddening, bittersweet tale of a life salvaged and lost again, from my point of view.

What this book has done for awareness and understanding of depression is unparalleled. It also taught me about the importance of not making other people too important - not making a boyfriend/girlfriend/friend/family member your Anchor - which is something I really value. People are spontaneous and unpredictable; hobbies are stable and familiar. Rely on yourself more, guys. I can only wish that Vizzini was still around to see it touch the hearts and minds of parents and teenagers like me. RIP, Ned.

Rating: ★★★★☆

Cinema Experience of The Fault In Our Stars (2014)

The Fault In Our Stars being my absolute favourite book, I arrived at the cinema today with relatively low expectations. I thought they wouldn't be able to do it justice - and I must admit that part of this idea came from the fact that John Green wasn't able to direct it himself, as he is about to do for the movie adaptation of Paper Towns. I also wasn't entirely happy with the casting. After seeing the trailers, it almost seemed to be a universal opinion that Ansel, in particular, did not remind us, the book readers, of Augustus. He doesn't look like the character we fell in love with. But, despite this, I have to say, he completely won me around, and I'm sure I'm not alone there.

Ansel was everything Augustus was written to be: cheeky and cocky but also loving, concerned and gentle. Shailene was brilliant too; the scenes in which she had to break down and provoke or show emotion were beautifully executed and performed; they made the film. But, I don't know, she still doesn't remind me of Hazel. We only get to see a couple of her many layers - the audience doesn't see much of Hazel's unwavering inner strength. Sure, you see her climbing ladders whilst finding it almost impossible to breathe which is a feat in itself but you don't get to hear her monologue... you can't read her mind. When I read the book I learnt a lot about not fearing death through Hazel, but sadly for whatever reason the director must have spent most of his time on conducting romance as opposed to showing strength.

Although the director did a good job in terms of meeting the needs of stereotypical popular cinema for teenagers, there were some fatal flaws for fans of the book. Something that really bothered me in particular was the fact that Augustus' ex-girlfriend (who died of cancer before he met Hazel) was never mentioned, at all, possibly in attempt to make Hazel seem like the only girl that Augustus ever loved. To maybe over-romanticise their relationship to appeal to some, more naïve teenage girls. The reason this is fatal, for me, is that I considered Augustus' past relationship a huge part of his characterisation. It is true that, in a way, I disliked his character a little more at first because Hazel was not his one and only, but it is an important part of who Augustus is/was. The point is to grow to love him despite his hidden past and deliberate flaws, like Hazel does. We (if you read the book) learnt a lot through his ex-girlfriend's death (specifically through her Facebook wall) with regards to how most people react online when a person dies. This valuable information, this lesson, is not spread via the movie and is just another reason why you should read the book. It's a shame because a movie would have been a perfect platform to share those opinions on public reactions.

However, there has to be something said about a movie which can move you and reduce you to tears even when you know what's coming. My sister was in floods, I had a little cry, and my friend Josh went very quiet for a long while after it had finished. The girls in the cinema were inconsolable - to the point where I couldn't hear the film at times. This is why I recommend YOU WAIT until the DVD is released, or until you can view it on Netflix or Now TV. Perk 1) you get to cry in solitude, in the privacy of your own home... so less public embarrassment. Perk 2) no sobbing girls which somewhat ruin your cinema experience. Overall, it was an amazing adaptation and quite a nice - albeit, loud - atmosphere. Shailene's acting was truly second to none, Ansel made a perfect Augustus; all you have to do is ignore the rest of the audience, and the omitted storylines, and you'll be pretty happy with it. Genuinely. Expect to fall in love again. For another great review of the movie, check out my friend Keisha's blog >HERE<.

Rating: ★★★ 1/2

Kazuo Ishiguro: "Never Let Me Go" // Review

"As children, Ruth, Kathy and Tommy spend their childhood at a seemingly idyllic English boarding school. As they grow into young adults, they find that they have to come to terms with the strength of the love they feel for each other, while preparing themselves for the haunting reality that awaits them. Never Let Me Go is an unforgettable story of love, friendship and the fragility of life."

Whilst Never Let Me Go is sometimes ethically intriguing, it's also rather dull. Like the film, it was slow, quiet and hard to get into. I'll be honest, there were occasions when I really had to force myself to pick the book up and continue reading - yet despite my efforts I feel like I got nothing out of it. At times there wasn't as much dialogue as I'd like, especially between Kathy and Tommy; whose relationship deserved to be established and explored in more depth than it ever was in the book. This is probably why the film adaption of the novel takes the edge for me, considering it leads you to believe Kathy and Tommy spent a lot more time together than they were actually written to have. One thing that does annoy me about the film though is that Kathy is made to appear a virginal, shy type. In the book she has many fleeting relationships, which, again, are never explored in any detail but are vital to mention when it comes to her characterisation.

Although the blurb makes this big thing about "an unforgettable story of love", I'd argue against it. If Tommy had never said to Kath, "We loved each other all our lives," then you may not have realised that was ever the case. Even when they (SPOILER ALERT!) become a couple, there's never a soft caress; Tommy never pushes her hair behind her ear... you know, all the things you'd expect from two people who have, supposedly, been longing to be together all their lives. Even then, it's just "sometimes, we had sex." And, yes, that is an exact quote, which I believe is said more than once. I shouldn't judge him seeing as I've only read one of his books, but as far as I can gather, Ishiguro's talent does not extend to creating complex loving relationships. It's all very minimalist and he doesn't go too far in his descriptions. In fact, I have never seen such disparity when it comes to describing characters and what they look like, either! In his defence, though, I'm not sure if his lack of description of the clones was to emphasise their unimportance in the eyes of the humans.

One clever thing about the novel though, being dystopian, is that it really does make you think - even without posing a single question. You do consider what you'd like the fate of the clones to be. On the other hand, it is very forgettable. Nothing really happens, and nothing ever shocked me - although I suppose I had some sort of idea about the ending because I'd already watched the film. Nonetheless, if I saw someone about to read it, I'd direct them to put it back where they got it. That may seem a bit harsh, but I'm a big believer in that books are supposed to make you feel. Ishiguro just doesn't do it for me.

To keep up with what books I'm reading, visit my Goodreads page at: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/32076954-meaghan

Music Journalism // Best Of Twitter

Some might say that over the years I have accumulated quite a large following on Twitter. As it stands I have around 1.7k followers, and that number is ever-increasing. A large portion of that figure is made up of bands, artists, or their representatives (I can only assume this is because of my own music taste which is quite evident on my account if you have the time to look through the long list of bands I follow). Frequently now, I am contacted by members of bands that are not as well known, who ask me to listen to their debut songs on YouTube, or, if I'm lucky, they may even send me a free album. Recently this has been occurring more and more, with around seven requests from bands in the past two days. This contact with bands or their associates is, frankly, brilliant for me because at some point in the future I would love to become a music journalist. I realised that I could help some of these bands get started by recommending some of the best songs I'm sent, to you, blog readers, and simultaneously improve my chances of a career in the field. If not, it's good practice and good fun.

1) Living Proof by The Gift of Ghosts

Sent to me by band member Rich on his account @RichTGOG, this was definitely the best, most promising, well-produced song I've been linked to in a long time... maybe ever. Rich actually directed me to a lyric video, which I also thought was very professionally made. After a couple of listens, I was completely hooked on both the words and sound. Out of everything I've been sent, Living Proof was the only song I liked enough to publically recommend on my own Twitter account. I genuinely believe that The Gift of Ghosts could rival most signed rock bands as they're a perfect example of a band that knows what they have to do to get where they want to. Definitely listen to Living Proof if you're a fan of Crown The Empire or Bring Me The Horizon -  although I wouldn't recommend it if you can't stomach a bit of screaming.

Watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=83BA04_IyQ0&feature=youtu.be

@TheGiftOfGhosts

facebook.com/TheGiftOfGhosts



2) Jury Of Wolves by Outline In Color

@OutlineInColor approached me to draw my attention to their album 'Jury of Wolves' on iTunes. I'm not an iTunes user but I took it upon myself to check out their YouTube account instead. I have a feeling that Jury of Wolves would be extremely popular with the metal-heads amongst you, although I must admit it's a little heavier than the music I usually store on my phone. It went down well with my friends who enjoy screamo a lot more than me. That said, the verses provide a nice contrast from the rest of the song and for me they make the song worthwhile. You can decide for yourselves by watching the lyric video below. With regard to Outline In Color's other songs that haven't been mentioned in this blog, I do have a bit of a problem with the screaming going on over the singing. I'd recommend a listen if you like Memphis May Fire or Asking Alexandria.

Watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z94DQBUVXvk

@OutlineInColor

facebook.com/OutlineInColor

3) Under The Weather by Above The Underground
Above The Underground were one of the generous bands. They got in touch with me to thank me for my follow back, and offered me a free download of their new album 'Sonder' in return. Today though I searched them on YouTube and came across a gem from one of their older records, Autumn, called 'Under The Weather'. Above The Underground make the kind of music I'm really into and what's even better is that they're a home-grown band from Cheshire, UK. You might be a fan if you like Blink-182. (And also, no screaming!)

Watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qTc_ZueSgh0

@ATUpoppunk


facebook.com/abovetheundergrounduk

Members of Diamond Days, Tempting Fate (not to be confused with my friends' band Tempted Fate), Forgotten Fallacy and Glory For An Idol all got in touch but sadly their songs didn't make my top three. Bands are nothing without their fans, guys, and every one could use some help in one way or another. Listen to them on Spotify, like their Facebook pages, follow them on Twitter, subscribe on YouTube... please do whatever you can to show them support.

If you'd like to see your band on a blog like this please private message me on my Twitter account @HUNTY0UD0WN by clicking >here<

(links correct June 2014. This post also appears on www.b4ndwagon.blogspot.com)

Monday 26th May 2014 // Monthly Favourites

Within the past couple of days (now that AS exams are over and I actually have some free time) I've finally had time to rekindle some love for my favourite past-times. Yesterday I managed to see my best friend Jayson again, but other than that I've really been enjoying my own company. I don't know why. This means that I've spent quite a lot of time alone; whether it be watching movies, reading books, blogging, writing songs or whatever.

One thing I've rediscovered, is my love of Italy and all things Italian. I was having a discussion with a couple of college friends about what the hell I'm going to do if I fail my AS-Levels when I began to consider spending some time in Italy; which hadn't crossed my mind in a while. When I was quite young, I picked up a book called 'Pretty Face' by Mary Hogan, which I wouldn't recommend reading unless you're around 13-14, but nonetheless when I read it I became obsessed with a small town named Assisi, which is situated within the Umbria region of Italy. The book told the story of how a largely overweight girl was sent over to Italy (specifically, Assisi) where it was believed she could lose some weight. The main character managed this by climbing the mountain there every day in order to see her friend/boyfriend Enzo. It's all very gay but it's a lovely story to read if you're a young teenager, or if you just feel like falling in love with Assisi. Since then, I've had an overwhelming urge to visit Italy, and who knows, maybe even spend a portion of my life there. If I'm really gonna go all out on this 'all things Italian' point, I could also mention Marcus Butler's YouTube video "Drunk In Italy". I watched the video with a friend at a sleepover, and was amazed by the fact that they actually party in the streets! It's just that you wouldn't see a rave on the pavement in England, complete with strobe lights and everything, now, would you?

Leading on from this first point, I've also rediscovered my love for learning languages. Even before I read 'Pretty Face', I was well on my way to learning basic Italian, and a little bit more French. At this point I might only have been 8 or 9 years old. I was short of things to do at weekends so I attempted to learn Italian by reading a short children's Learn Italian book, and learning French via PC-CD ROM. Recently I realised that hardly any of either language has stuck in my head - if you asked me to speak a sentence in Italian I would have said something as simple as "Caio, amore mio" - and I can say even less in French. Annoyed at myself for letting it slip, I spoke to my friend Dan about it, who shares a passion for languages (though he's much more concerned with German). He was able to direct me to a free app on the Google Play store called 'Duolingo' which is extremely helpful for learning languages. I've been using the app for four days and I can already speak Italian to a Level 6 standard. It'll be vital that I learn at least some of the language if I want to stay in Italy long-term. If you're interested in learning a language, I highly recommend this app as you can go at your own pace, and you can choose whichever language you like. It also reminds you at intervals to keep up with studying at times when particular sections might be fading from your memory.

Something entirely new I discovered just over a month ago is Game of Thrones. I can't say with certainty that I know all the characters' names or that I understand all the story-lines because I have only seen from the end of Season 3, but I did fall in love with the Sixth Episode of Season Four: 'The Laws of Gods and Men,' where we begin to see (almost) everyone rally against Tyrion who is by far my favourite character. And I have to say *spoiler alert* "I DEMAND A TRIAL BY COMBAT!" was definitely the highlight of the season. I would love to read the books, but sadly I don't have any yet. Plus, I'm already started on two books, 'It's Kind Of A Funny Story' and House Of Night's 'Revealed,' as well as having purchased three books (including The Lovely Bones and Eragon) over the weekend. Surely, there'll be some book reviews coming your way soon.

Meaghan xx