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Challenge 4: Prize Winner Book Entries
Hello book challenge lovers! If you are here, you are most probably in the Challenge 4: Prize Winner Book phase of Take Another Chance Book Challenge.
As you well know the instuctions for the Challenge 4: Prize Winner Book tell you to choose a prominent literary honor from the provided list of links. To then follow that link for your selected award. There, you’ll come across a concise overview of the award and references to its previous recipients. You must them select a book from a past awardee, read it, and pen your thoughts.
This is where you can post your enrty for Challenge 4.
Enrty Instuctions
Scroll down to the bottom of the page and post your name as an entry in the comments. List the literary honour link that you chose. Write the name of the awardee and the title of the book that person wrote. Provide a link to your blog where you talk about the book. Also, don’t forget to credit the original website where you discovered the book.
For The New Commers…
What is this ? Well, not too long ago we created the “Take Another Chance” book challenge. It runs from January to December. The challenge includes three participation levels and twelve one-a-month book challenges. Click this link to get all the details: “Announcing: “Take Another Chance Challenge”. (Find Your Next Book Here)“. This page is the entry form to the fourth step of the challenge.
Click on this link to go to Challenge 3: 100 Best Books Entries.
Click on this link to go to Challenge 5: Title Word Count Entries.
Challenge 3: 100 Best Books Entries
Hello book challenge lovers! If you are here, you are most probably in the Challenge 3: 100 Best Books phase of Take Another Chance Book Challenge.
As you well know the instuctions for the Challenge 3: 100 Best Books tell you to select from one of the options from a provided list of book categories. You are then to follow the accompanying link and pick a book you haven’t explored previously. After reading, share your insights and thoughts on it.
This is where you can post your enrty for Challenge 3.
Enrty Instuctions
Scroll down to the bottom of the page and post your name as an entry in the comments. Post the book category that you chose. The title and author of the book you read and a link to your blog where you talk about the book. Also, don’t forget to credit the original blog where you discovered the book.
For The New Commers…
What is this ? Well, not too long ago we created the “Take Another Chance” book challenge. It runs from January to December. The challenge includes three participation levels and twelve one-a-month book challenges. Click this link to get all the details: “Announcing: “Take Another Chance Challenge”. (Find Your Next Book Here)“. This page is the entry form to the third step of the challenge.
Click on this link to go to Challenge 2: Blogroll Roulette Entriess.
Click on this link to go to Challenge 4: Prize Winner Book Entries.
Challenge 2: Blogroll Roulette Entries
Hello book challenge lovers! If you are here, you are most probably in the Challenge 2: Blogroll Roulette phase of Take Another Chance Book Challenge.
As you well know the instuctions for the Challenge 2: Blogroll Roulette tell you to discover a blogroll on your favorite book blog, or any other you admire, ensuring it lists at least 15 other book blogs. Head over to Random.org and utilize its True Random Number Generator.
This is where you can post your enrty for Challenge 2.
Enrty Instuctions
Scroll down to the bottom of the page and post your name as an entry in the comments. Post the title and author of the book you read and a link to your blog where you talk about the book. Also, don’t forget to credit the original blog where you discovered the book.
For The New Commers…
What is this ? Well, not too long ago we created the “Take Another Chance” book challenge. It runs from January to December. The challenge includes three participation levels and twelve one-a-month book challenges. Click this link to get all the details: “Announcing: “Take Another Chance Challenge”. (Find Your Next Book Here)“. This page is the entry form to the second step of the challenge.
Click on this link to go to Challenge 1: Read Your Doppelganger.
Click on this link to go to Challenge 3: 100 Best Books Entries.
Challenge 7: Break A Prejudice
Challenge 7: Break A Prejudice is the seventh of the Take Another Chance Challenge tasks.
The “Take Another Chance Challenge” aims to guide you in uncovering fresh reads via a structured literary challenge. This initiative prompts you to navigate the book realm through unconventional and inventive methods. Offering a dozen diverse tasks, each exercise involves elements of randomness, creativity, or exploration. Depending on your level of interest and time commitment, you’re welcome to engage in 3, 6, or the full suite of 12 tasks. While the quest officially spans from January through December, participants have the freedom to continue their exploration beyond this period. The overarching objective is to bring attention to lesser-known books while fostering thoughtful discussion and analysis of them.
Challenge 7: Break A Prejudice
We all carry with us certain biases when it comes to reading, whether it’s a tendency to avoid specific authors, genres, or even publishing houses. Challenge 7 dares you to confront one of these preconceived notions head-on. Choose a book that you would typically bypass due to your personal reading biases. Then, give it a read and share how the experience either altered your initial bias or affirmed it.
Detailed Instructions:
- Identify Your Prejudice: Spend some time reflecting on your reading habits to identify a particular prejudice you hold. It could be against a genre you’ve always found dull, an author you’ve never jelled with, or even a publisher whose releases you generally skip over.
- Book Selection: Once you’ve pinpointed your bias, actively seek out a book that falls under that category. This is the book you will be reading for this challenge.
- Initial Thoughts: Before diving into the book, jot down your preconceptions. What are you expecting to find in this book? What elements are you skeptical about? It would be interesting to see if your initial assumptions hold true or get shattered.
- Read: Proceed to read the book you’ve chosen. As you do, try to remain open-minded and allow the text to present itself without the cloud of your prejudices affecting your judgment.
- Make Observations: While reading, keep notes on elements that catch your attention. Do they confirm your prejudices or challenge them?
Writing Prompt:
After completing the book, write a thoughtful essay or blog post discussing your initial prejudices and the impact the book had on them. Was your bias shattered, modified, or reinforced? Dig into specific examples from the book that led you to your conclusions. Did the experience change how you’ll approach similar books in the future?
Privacy Note:
If you’re uncomfortable sharing your specific bias or prejudice, you can opt to discuss your experience in more general terms while still sharing how the challenge influenced your views.
Challenge 7: Break A Prejudice Entry Instructions:
Scroll down to the bottom of the page and post your name as an entry in the comments. List the title of the book you have selected and the name of the author. Provide a link to your blog where you talk about the book as instructed above. Also, don’t forget to credit the original website where you discovered the book.
Additional Challenges (Optional):
- Recommendation Swap: Partner with a friend or family member, and swap book recommendations that you think might challenge the other’s prejudices. Discuss your experiences afterward.
- Yearly Reflection: Make it an annual activity to confront a new reading bias. Track how your reading preferences evolve over time.
Final Thoughts:
The objective of this challenge is to broaden your reading horizons and offer you a chance to question your ingrained preferences. By confronting your reading biases, you might discover hidden gems or affirm that certain types of books are indeed not your cup of tea—and either way, that’s a valuable revelation. Happy reading!
Click this link to see the rest of the tasks and the three participation levels. Take Another Chance Challenge. This page is the entry form to the seventh step of the challenge.
Click on this link to go to Challenge 6: Prize Winner Book Entries.
Click on this link to go to Challenge 8: Real and Inspired Entries.
2010 E-Book Reading Challenge
The 2010 E-Book Reading Challenge is finally here! Hey there. Are you ready to crack open a whole new kind of fun? Then dust off your e-Reader, fire up your tablet, or get comfy with your smartphone because yup, it’s time for the 2010 E-Book Reading Challenge. Whether you’re a seasoned digital reader who devours e-books like popcorn, or a curious bibliophile dipping your toes into the exciting world of e-books for the first time, this challenge is for you.
Just to let you know that this isn’t your typical book club (like having to analyze the symbolism of teacups in a 19th-century novel). No way. This challenge is all about exploration, discovery, and experiencing the joy of reading in a whole new way. Digital books! The new frontier.
Ok then, let’s get to it. Here’s how you can join the adventure:
1. Pick Your Level:
The Curious: (1-3 e-books) is the perfect place to start.
The Familiar: (4-10 e-books) for the seasoned e-book reader to keep busy and entertained!.
The Avid: (11-20 e-books) for the e-book enthusiast who spends more time browsing the Kindle Store than your local bookstore (sound like me).
The Obsessed: (21+ e-books) for those who practically live in a digital library and want to explore new e-book frontiers!
2. Fuel Your Literary Engine
The beauty of this challenge is that you’re the captain of your own e-book ship. Dive into the latest sci-fi thriller, revisit a childhood classic, or finally tackle that intimidating biography you’ve been eyeing. There are no genre restrictions here, so unleash your inner book explorer and find the e-books that set your soul on fire. This is your chance to discover hidden gems by new authors or revisit old favorites in a whole new format.
3. Share the Journey
This challenge isn’t just about racking up e-books (although, let’s be honest, that can be pretty darn satisfying). It’s about connecting with a community of fellow book lovers who share your passion for the written word, no matter the format. It’s about meeting people who love what you love. It’s about interaction and having fun.
So go ahead and write reviews on your blog or social media using the hashtag #2010 E-Book Reading Challenge (#2010EBookReadingChallenge). Let’s create a vibrant online space where we can gush over our favorite e-books, dissect plot twists, and recommend hidden treasures to each other. After all, what’s better than getting lost in a good book? Yup, you guessed it. Sharing that experience with others who get it!
4. Embrace the Digital Oasis
Let’s face it, life can be hectic. Between work, family, and that ever-growing “to-read” pile, finding time to curl up with a good book can feel like a luxury. The beauty of e-books is their convenience. No more lugging around heavy paperbacks or scrambling to find the next book in a series at the library. E-books are your portable reading oasis, ready to whisk you away to another world at a moment’s notice. Whether you’re waiting in line for coffee, taking your lunch break, or curled up on the couch, your next great read is always a tap or a click away.
So, what are you waiting for? Join the 2010 E-Book Reading Challenge today and unlock a world of digital adventures!
5. Ready to Dive In?
Sign up for the challenge by leaving a comment below with your name, email address, and your chosen reading level. This will help us keep track of all our intrepid e-book explorers and make sure you’re entered in the prize draw (because hey, who doesn’t love a little reward for conquering a good book challenge?). Once you’re enrolled, you’ll receive a cool digital badge to display on your blog or social media profiles, letting the world know you’re part of this awesome bookish adventure. And to keep your e-book journey fueled, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates, reading tips, and exclusive e-book recommendations throughout the year.
Happy reading, everyone! Let’s make 2010 the year we explore the wonders of the digital bookshelf together!
If you like reading challenges, click on the link and try the 2010 Reading From My Shelves Project challenge. It’s really easy-peazy. Read the books you already owned and then pass them on to new readers. And of course, document your progress along the way.
Challenge 5: Title Word Count
Challenge 5: Title Word Count is the fifth of the Take Another Chance Challenge tasks.
The “Take Another Chance Challenge” is a challenge that runs from January to December. The goal is to help you find amazing books to read and create positive interaction. Each task takes an unusual and unique approach to book finding. Probably something you’ve never tried before. We wanted to make it fun and interesting as well.
There are 12 tasks in all. They involve original thinking and a few surprises along the way. The tasks are divided into three participation levels.
Level 1 and 2 require (3 of 1) and (6 of 12) tasks to be completed for anyone who wants to do less. Level 3 includes all (12 of 12).
Challenge 5: Title Word Count
For this task, you’ll be using the element of chance to determine the number of words your next book title should have. Visit Random.org and employ their True Random Number Generator. Set the minimum range to 1 and the maximum to 5, and then hit the “generate” button. The number that appears is your guide: Find a book with a title that contains exactly that many words.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Go to Random.org and access the True Random Number Generator.
- Set your minimum range as 1 and your maximum as 5.
- Click “generate” and note the number that appears.
- Armed with this number, scour libraries, bookstores, or your own bookshelves to find a book that has a title with exactly that many words.
- Once you’ve chosen your book, settle in for a good read.
Reading Tips:
- If the number generated is small, you may find titles that are quite direct and succinct. On the other hand, a larger number might lead you to books with more elaborate or poetic titles. Take note of how the length of the title might influence your perception of the book’s content.
- As you read, jot down any observations or questions that arise, focusing not just on the plot and characters but also on how the title relates to the book’s themes or story elements.
Privacy Note:
If you’re sharing your experience online or with a reading group, you don’t have to disclose the randomly generated number if you prefer not to. You can simply mention that you chose the book based on a “random numerical challenge” for the Title Word Count.
Challenge 5 Title Word Count: Entry Instructions:
Scroll down to the bottom of the page and post your name as an entry in the comments. Now enter the number that was generated by the True Random Number Generator on Randon.org and title of the book that contains the exact same number of words. Enter the author’s name and a link to your blogpost where you you talk about the book. Also, don’t forget to credit the original blog or website where you discovered the book.
Writing Prompt:
After finishing the book, write a review or commentary that not only explores your general impressions but also dives into specific elements that stood out to you. Reflect on how the title, with its exact number of words, connected to the book’s overall theme, plot, or characters. Did the numerically-determined title add a layer of intrigue or meaning to your reading?
Optional Extension:
If you find this method of book selection enjoyable or enlightening, consider turning it into a recurring activity. For instance, you could do this challenge at the beginning of each month, allowing the randomness to guide your reading choices throughout the year.
The aim of this task is to introduce an element of chance into your reading habits, which could lead to unexpected and rewarding literary discoveries. Happy reading!
Click this link to see the rest of the tasks and the three participation levels. Take Another Chance Challenge. This page is the entry form to the fifth step of the challenge.
Click on this link to go to Challenge 4: Prize Winner Book Entries.
Click on this link to go to Challenge 6: Prize Winner Book Entries.
Challenge 1: Read Your Doppelganger
Challenge 1: Read Your Doppelganger is the first of the Take Another Chance Challenge tasks.
This “Take Another Chance Challenge” aims to help you unearth ways to find your next book via a book challenge. What’s the strategy? It nudges you to venture into the world of books in ways that are both imaginative and unusual. Comprising a selection of 12 distinct activities, each exercise calls for an element of surprise, original thinking, or discovery. Depending on your enthusiasm and availability, you have the option to engage in 3, 6, or all 12 activities. While the official timeframe stretches from January to December, participants are free to extend their journey at their own pace. Ultimately, the objective is to spotlight overlooked titles and foster conversation and reflection around them.
Challenge 1: Read Your Doppelganger
Task Description: Ever wondered if there’s another version of you out there, navigating the literary world? In this challenge, your task is to find an author who shares a name-based connection with you. This connection could manifest in various ways: maybe you share the same initials, have a matching first or last name, or—believe it or not—possess an identical full name. Once you identify this writer, delve into one of their works.
Privacy Note:
If you’re blogging about this challenge or sharing it on social media and prefer to maintain your privacy, there’s absolutely no requirement to disclose how your name aligns with the author’s. You can simply state that you’ve found your “Doppelganger” without going into specifics.
Reading Tips:
If you have trouble finding a book by your chosen author, consider seeking out shorter works like essays, articles, or even interviews they’ve done. The idea is to engage with their body of work.
As you read, note down elements that catch your eye: plot twists, character developments, stylistic choices, etc. It may add an extra layer of intrigue to consider whether these elements resonate with you personally, given your name-based connection with the author. So go ahead, find your next book or next great book here…
Writing Prompt:
After completing the book, take some time to compose a commentary or review. Discuss your overall impressions, delve into specific elements that stood out to you, and consider the unique experience of reading a work by your “Doppelganger.” Did the name connection add any extra significance or enjoyment to your reading experience? Feel free to explore this angle in your commentary.
Challenge 1 Read Your Doppelganger: Entry Instructions:
Scroll down to the bottom of the page and post your name as an entry in the comments. Enter the name of the writer whose name aligns with yours. (You can use initials only for even more privacy). Provide the name of the book of that author that you read and a link to your blog where you talk about the book. Also, don’t forget to credit the original blog or website where you discovered the book.
Optional Challenge:
If you find this experience particularly enlightening or enjoyable, you might decide to make it a recurring activity. Perhaps you could read a book by your “Doppelganger” every year on your birthday, or create a book club where everyone reads a book by their name-aligned author.
Your “Doppelganger” could serve as a unique lens through which to discover new genres, themes, or styles you might not have explored otherwise. Happy reading!
Click this link to see the rest of the tasks and the three participation levels. Take Another Chance Challenge. This page is the entry form to the first step of the challenge.
Click on this link to go to Challenge 2: Blogroll Roulette Entries.
Marley and Me: Life and Love with the World’s Worst Dog by John Grogan: The Show Me 5 Saturday Meme
So here is my Show Me 5 Saturday meme book description. To begin with, the book I’m reviewing is: “Marley and Me: Life and Love with the World’s Worst Dog” by John Grogan
Now, here are the answers to each of the five questions…..
1.Title of the book I read this week
“Marley and Me: Life and Love with the World’s Worst Dog” by John Grogan
2. Words to describe the book
In short, Heartwarming, Humorous, Dog-loving.
3. Setting and characters I met in the book
3.1 The Setting:
“Marley & Me” is mainly set in South Florida, USA, where John and his wife, Jenny, start their life together. The story also takes place in various locations, including their home, their workplace, and places they visit with their dog Marley. The timeline spans over several years, providing a glimpse into the changing seasons of their life.
3.2 Characters:
3.2.1 John Grogan:
Without a doubt, the protagonist and narrator of the story. He is a journalist who works for a local newspaper. John is compassionate, humorous, and caring, with a deep love for animals. As a result, he forms a unique bond with Marley and learns valuable life lessons through their adventures together.
3.2.2 Jenny Grogan:
John’s wife, supportive and understanding, Jenny shares his love for animals and supports his decision to adopt Marley. She is patient and nurturing, but she also faces the challenges that come with Marley’s unruly behavior.
3.2.3 Marley:
The boisterous and lovable Labrador Retriever who is the center of the story. Marley is often described as the “world’s worst dog” due to his uncontrollable energy and mischievous nature. Despite his flaws, he brings joy and love to the Grogan family and teaches them the true meaning of loyalty and devotion.
3.2.4 Other Family Members and Friends:
Throughout the book, various family members, friends, and colleagues play significant roles in the Grogans’ life. In fact, they provide support, advice, and comic relief, adding depth to the story’s portrayal of relationships and community.
These characters, along with their interactions and experiences, make “Marley and Me” a touching and relatable tale. As a result, it resonates with animal lovers and anyone who has ever experienced the joys and challenges of pet ownership.
4. Things I liked or disliked about the book
4.1 Liked
I appreciated the emotional depth of this john grogan book. The story took me on a rollercoaster of emotions. There were heartwarming moments of joy and love shared with Marley. There were also tear-jerking scenes that explored the challenges of pet ownership and the inevitability of saying goodbye.
The book struck a chord with me as a pet owners and animal lover. The portrayal of Marley’s antics and the unique bond between the Grogan family and their dog resonated with me. For this reason, it was easy to relate having experienced the joys and struggles of having a dog myself.
4.2 Disliked
The emotional journey was positive. But, I found certain parts of the book too emotionally heavy for me. More of a bittersweet reading experience. So those who are sensitive to stories involving the loss of a beloved pet might find it difficult to read.
4.3 Overall
“Marley and Me” was heartwarming, humorous and well written. Overall, it was a good read.
5. Stars or less rating
I give “Marley and Me: Life and Love with the World’s Worst Dog” by John Grogan
Four stars * * * *
Click this link to see The Show Me 5 Saturday Meme for: The Xibalba Murders by Lyn Hamilton
Review: Alex & Me By Irene Pepperberg
Book Title: Alex & Me” A Tale of Feathers and Insights**
Authoer Irene M. Pepperberg
Genre: Biography, Science
Publication Date:*October 28, 2008
Publisher: Harper
Pages: 240 Pages
Alex & Me”: A Voyage of Heart and Mind
Irene M. Pepperberg’s “Alex & Me” is a heartfelt narrative. It paints a vivid portrait of an extraordinary parrot and his human companion’s journey. Her journey through the realms of animal intelligence and emotional bonds.
A Memoir That Soars
“Alex & Me” is more than a memoir. It’s a window into the soulful connection between Irene Pepperberg, a trailblazing animal psychologist, and Alex, her African Grey parrot. This book is a treasure trove of insights into their unique relationship and the pioneering research. How animals think and feel, making it an essential read for both the scientifically curious and the animal-admirer.
An Unforgettable Bond
At the heart of it all, lies the three-decade-long bond between Pepperberg and Alex. This parrot shattered preconceived notions about avian intellect. He was adept at counting, recognizing colors and shapes, grasping relative sizes, and even sharing his emotions. Their collaborative scientific endeavors redefined our understanding of bird brains.
Pepperberg’s storytelling weaves together her professional odyssey with poignant moments shared with Alex. Their story is a celebration of the deep connections that can flourish between species.
Insights That Resonate
What truly captivates in book is Pepperberg’s vivid recounting of her research with Alex. Her contributions have significantly enriched our grasp of animal intelligence. Her work revealed that birds’ cognitive capabilities can rival those of primates and even young children. The narrative offers a glimpse into Alex’s mastery of complex ideas, his articulate communication, and his emotional richness.
Pepperberg also shares the highs and lows of her research journey. From the skepticism she encountered to the eventual acclaim for her revolutionary findings. Her unwavering commitment to her work, despite the hurdles, is nothing short of inspirational.
Reflecting on “Alex & Me”
This work stands as a remarkable testament to the intellectual and emotional depths of animals. All while honoring the unique relationship between a scientist and her feathered friend. Whether you’re an avian aficionado, a devotee of science, or just someone who cherishes a compelling memoir. “Alex & Me” promises to leave an indelible mark and enrich your view of the animal kingdom.
Love animals? Check out my “Show Me 5 Saturday” take on Marley and Me: Life and Love with the World’s Worst Dog by John Grogan. A boisterous and lovable Labrador Retriever who is described as the “world’s worst dog” due to his uncontrollable energy and mischievous nature.
The Polar Bears’ Home Laura Bergen: Book Review
The Polar Bears’ Home: A Story About Global Warming by Laura Bergen. From the prominent author Laura Bergen comes a childrens’ book that introduces young readers to the effects of global warming on polar bears and their Arctic habitat. Emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation. This is my review of that book…
Book Title: The Polar Bears’ Home
Author: Laura Bergen
Genre: Childrens’ Book
Publicasion Date: Sept. 9 2008
Publisher: Little Simon
Pages: 24
The Polar Bears’ Home Engaging Narrative:
“The Polar Bears’ Home” captivates readers from the start. Moreover, Bergen employs a blend of storytelling and factual information, seamlessly weaving them together to maintain young readers’ attention. As you journey through the pages, the vivid illustrations and compelling narrative foster both empathy and curiosity.
Laura Bergen Adds Educational Value:
Furthermore, this book stands out as an educational gem. It introducing the concept of global warming and its impact on polar bear habitats. In fact, Bergen makes complex environmental issues accessible and relatable to children. Therefore, it serves as an excellent conversation starter for parents and educators to discuss environmental conservation and the consequences of human actions on nature.
Artwork and Illustrations By Vincent Nguyen
Visually, the book is a treat. The illustrations were done by Vincent Nguyen. They not only complement the narrative but also provide readers with a more profound understanding of the Arctic environment. In truth, the rich details in the images invite readers to linger on each page, absorbing the beauty and fragility of the polar bears’ world.
Emotional Resonance:
Lastly, Bergen’s writing strikes a chord in the heart. Through the eyes of the polar bears, readers are drawn into a world where survival becomes increasingly challenging. By the end, there’s not only a deeper appreciation for these majestic creatures but also a renewed sense of responsibility to care for our planet.
Conclusion:
In summary, “The Polar Bears’ Home” is a must-read for young environmental enthusiasts and those new to the subject. Firstly, it educates. Secondly it inspires. Thirdly, it reminds us all of the interconnectedness of life on Earth. Through captivating storytelling and illuminating artwork, Laura Bergen has crafted a poignant tale about global warming’s impact on the Arctic and its inhabitants.
If you’re looking to find your next book (and something completely different), click on the following link and read the “A Girl Named Zippy Book Review“.