This awesome survey was created by the lovely Jasmine at Flip that Page, and after reading Jasprit's over at The Reader's Den, I felt like it was the perfect way to round up my favourite (and least favourite) books. For those of you that know me, you also know that I love Harry Potter, so I figure this is a win-win. 

If you want to play along, too, it's simple enough! Take the spells from Harry Potter and answer the prompts about books you've read...Today's part one of the survey involves books I, personally, would like to cast some serious spells on. So, without further ado, here we go.

Reparo

Fixes damaged objects

A Book that Needs Some Serious Fixing: Tumble & Fall by Alexandra Coutts. This one, sadly, fell into that "beautiful cover, terrible book" trap. It had so much potential, but it really fell flat for me.

Lumos

Creates a narrow beam of light

A Book That Deserves More Attention: Not a Drop to Drink by Mindy McGinnis. Just when I thought that the dystopian genre was dead, this one really revived my faith in the potential for the genre, as a whole.

Nox

Counters the effects of Lumos

An Over-hyped Book: Losing it by Cora Carmack. I finally tried it the other day, and guys, it just wasn't for me. Holy hype over a book that just didn't work for me.

Accio

Summons an object from a significant distance

A Book You're Highly Anticipating: The Winner's Curse by Marie Rutkowski. I just got this one in the mail, and I cannot wait to read the entire thing! Here's hoping the story lives up to its gorgeous cover.

Expecto Patronum

Conjures an incarnation of positive feelings

A Book That Made You Cry, or Want to Cry: Hate List by Jennifer Brown. Holy feels, guys. This book isn't what I would ever consider a feel-good novel, but wow. It is remarkable.

Morsmordre

Conjures the Dark Mark

A Book You'd Like to Mark as One of Your Favourites: The Fault in Our Stars by John Green. I devoured this book in two and a half hours on an airplane. And yes, I cried like an infant.

Petrificus Totalus

Petrifies your victim

A Book You'd Like to Keep Forever: Many Waters by Madeleine L'Engle. It doesn't matter how many times I read this book. I just keep coming back for more. If you haven't read it yet, please do!

Protego

Shield Charm

An Intimidating Book You Keep Putting Off: The Book Thief by Markus Zusak. I know. I know I've failed in not reading this book, but there are only so many feels I can take!

Riddikulus

Used against a Boggart

A Book with a Deceiving Synopsis: Fault Line by Christa Desir. I thought this was going to be a powerful, profound and emotional read, but it was just this cluttered, graphic and uncomfortable book for me.

Wingardium Leviosa 

Levitates objects

A Book You'd Like to Re-Read: The Summer Series by Jenny Han. I really enjoyed it, which was so very unlike me, so I'd love to try it again and see what exactly is so magical about these books.

------------------------------------

Stay tuned for the second installment tomorrow, guys! Tomorrow is all about those books that have cast their spell on me (whether that's good, or bad!) 

Let's Talk is a weekly feature here at i swim for oceans. I think it's important that we all have our say, and there's something to be said for raising our voices. Simply put, here on the little old blog, I like to host some of my very own discussion posts because, well, I like to converse with you all.

And so, Let's Talk will feature questions or prompts, which I will answer, too. Love it or hate it, weigh in or don't, it's my hope that Let's Talk will at least get you thinking...and maybe even get you discussing with the rest of us!

What are some of your all-time favourite book quotes, and why do they remain your favourite to this day?

This prompt is actually one that's pretty near and dear to my heart. For the past five years or so, I've kept a little journal of all my favourite quotes. Whether they be from friends, poetry or novels, every quote in that journal speaks to me on some deeper level. These quotes range from funny, to sweet, to evocative and descriptive...not all of them might seem straightforward, but they all have their reasons and their place in my heart.

"Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, when one only remembers to turn on the light."

- Albus Dumbledore, Harry Potter

"We've all got both light and dark inside of us. What matters is the part we choose to act on. That's who we really are."

- Sirius Black, Harry Potter

"Roses. Wolf mutts. Tributes. Frosted Dolphins. Friends. Mockingjays. Stylists. Me. Everything screams in my dreams tonight."

- Mockingjay

"You will find joy, frustration and sorrow in your quest. Never forget that friendship and loyalty are more precious than riches...Happiness can be brief, but it knows no time in the land of dreams."

- Pearls of Lutra

"My thoughts are stars I cannot fathom into constellations."

- The Fault in Our Stars

"Just like there's always time for pain, there's always time for healing."

- Hate List

Obviously these are just a small few of the quotes that mean so much to me, but they speak to me on so many different levels. They're about feeling, passion, pain, growth and learning to live life fully. What quotes are on your list of all-time favourites, and why are they favourites of yours?

Let's Talk is a weekly feature here at i swim for oceans. I think it's important that we all have our say, and there's something to be said for raising our voices. Simply put, here on the little old blog, I like to host some of my very own discussion posts because, well, I like to converse with you all.

And so, Let's Talk will feature questions or prompts, which I will answer, too. Love it or hate it, weigh in or don't, it's my hope that Let's Talk will at least get you thinking...and maybe even get you discussing with the rest of us!

Who are some of your favourite inspirational characters and why?

Yet again, I don't know why I do this to myself. Frankly, I could make an entire list of characters just from one series (Harry Potter, obviously), but I decided to put my big girl pants on and branch out...sort of. I have too many inspiring characters to list, but there are three that really stand out for various reasons, and that was the reason I decided to go ahead with this topic. 

1. Sirius Black from Harry Potter - When we were introduced to his character in the novels, I'd be lying if I said I didn't think he was an absolute psycho at first. Slowly but surely though, we watch as his hardened exterior forged by Azkaban and multiple betrayals begins to fade. Though he desires to be on the forefront of the action, above all else, he wants to be a parent to Harry, and he's willing to fight and die for him. His persona, his character and his selflessness is utterly inspiring.

2. Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games - Though I feel like we lost a bit of the essence of Katniss in the third book, it doesn't change the fact that it was (and is) thoroughly impressive to see a female character truly kick some ass. Though she is realistically afraid of what's to come, she inspires a nation by taking her sister's place in the games, and puts herself in a position where she will have to fight just to live. It is utterly refreshing to see that, though she doesn't need a man to survive, she can find one without losing herself, too.

3. Hazel Grace from The Fault in Our Stars - For the record, I don't think that picture is actually from the movie, but if it is, Shailene Woodley makes cancer look good. I'm going to hell. Anyhow, Hazel Grace inspires me because, though she knows she will probably die from her disease, she lives her life. She's isolated herself a lot through the course of her illness, and we learn that this strong, independent girl did so for the sake of others, rather than herself. She knows it will hurt them even more when she's gone. Plus, Hazel + Augustus simply means living life to its fullest.

What about you? Which characters do you find the most inspiring?

Let's Talk is a new weekly feature here at i swim for oceans. I think it's important that we all have our say, and there's something to be said for raising our voices. Simply put, here on the little old blog, I like to host some of my very own discussion posts because, well, I like to converse with you all.

And so, Let's Talk will feature questions or prompts, which I will answer, too. Love it or hate it, weigh in or don't, it's my hope that Let's Talk will at least get you thinking...and maybe even get you discussing with the rest of us!

What books have intimidated you in the past & what (if anything) made you read them or deterred you from trying?

This is a multi-part question, and I meant it to be that way because I think all of these things go hand-in-hand with one another. There are so many books out there on the shelves these days, it's an impossibility to even consider trying to read them all. So, instead, we find what works for us and what doesn't, and we develop our own relationship with reading and reviewing books. In most cases, this works beautifully. In some cases, however, I know that my preconceived notions have deterred me from reading incredible books.

Take, for example, Raw Blue. From day one of my blog, I made it pretty darn clear to all my followers that contemporary fiction was not my thing. I was firmly under the impression that all contemps were trite, cliche and riddled with stupid romance that is neither realistic, nor in any way beneficial to me as a reader. So, I adamantly stuck to my guns for over a year, and swore off contemps like the plague. Guys, it's not that I hadn't seen absolutely glowing reviews for this book because, trust me, I did. However, I was so stuck in this rut of bad representations of a really strong genre that I couldn't see past it. 

It actually took an invitation to a blog tour of this Australian gem for me to actually give it a go. I trusted the blogger who invited me, and I knew that she wouldn't have misled me about the quality of the novel. And, for the record, I was probably the most pleasantly surprised that I've ever been. This book is up there with my favourites of all time. It's meaingful, it's powerful and Kirsty Eagar is a true genius. This one should be on ALL of your lists. Please trust me on this one.

I'm ashamed that I still have prejudices towards the genre to this day though. Would you believe I still haven't read Anna & the French Kiss? I read the second installment and found it cute and fun, but I'm too terrified to be the only person that doesn't like the book to actually give it a go. I know I should read it, but I've yet to find a reason to actually force myself. Would you believe I was late to the game with Harry Potter, and I didn't even read the first book until three books were out? I was convinced that it was a children's novel only, and that it was beneath me. My sister convinced me to at least try it, and I humbly ate my words. That series is genius. GENIUS, I say!

But, for the most part, if bloggers and reviewers I trust make a strong enough case for me to try a novel, I'm willing to give it a go. I think that, more often than not, it's my own internal literary prejudices that, sadly, deter me from reading some great books. It's a disease. I'm working on it. Le sigh. 

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme created by The Broke and the Bookish. The feature was created because they are particularly fond of lists over at The Broke and the Bookish.

Each week they will post a new top ten list that one of our bloggers at The Broke and the Bookish will answer. Everyone is welcome to join. All they ask is that you link back to The Broke and the Bookish on your own Top Ten Tuesday post AND add your name to the Linky widget so that everyone can check out other bloggers lists! If you don't have a blog, just post your answers as a comment. Have fun with it! It's a great way to get to know your fellow bloggers.

Top Ten YA Book Series

1. Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling - Seriously. I don't need to explain this one, do I? But, just because I love you all oh-so-dearly, I will. It doesn't really get much better than Harry Potter. I grew up with this series. And, though it began as a fun, adventurous tale of friends, we got more depth, more darkness and more drama as the series progressed. Seriously...it's perfection.

2. Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead - When I started blogging, I swore up and down that I'd never read this series. I said that I hated vampires, I hated insta-love and there was absolutely no way I would ever like this series. Then, Jenny told me I had to read it...as did everyone else...so I tried it, and I've been hooked since. Love me some Dmitri. 

3. Percy Jackson & the Olympians by Rick Riordan - Okay, technically this is probably leaning more towards MG, but I read YA, and I still loved it. A fellow blogger introduced me to it in my first few months of blogging, and I read every book within a month. They're fast-paced, they're witty, they're funny...and, and, and...I love it.

4. Redwall by Brian Jacques - So, sue me. This is the uber-nerd in me coming out. They're books with lil' cute fuzzy animals as the main characters, but they're every bit as human as you and me. Trust me. I grew up with these books, and I proudly display them on my shelves today! 

5. His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman - This series is surrounded by controversy because if its supposed anti-religious undertones. Guys, I'm pretty dang religious, myself, but if you read a book for the sheer enjoyment of the prose and the story, it's better than analyzing those hidden messages. Plus, the world within these books is pretty freaking phenomenal. 

6. Divergent by Veronica Roth - Usually when a series is this surrounded by hype, I tend to steer clear of it. For some reason though, I really felt the need to read and become invested in this story, and boy did I ever. The author has created one heck of an adventure within these pages, and I'm completely enthralled with every installment.

7. The Last Survivors by Susan Beth Pfeffer - You guys might be surprised to see this one on my list because of how I said the second and third book were definitely not my favourites, while I adored the first book. However, I can't lie...the author has created one seriously bleak world, and it's very real and tangible, despite my feelings. And, let's be honest, I'm invested enough to read the upcoming fourth book despite my feelings toward the third book. That's saying something.

8. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins - I have mixed feelings on this series. On one hand, I just love it. Is it the best written work out there? No. Is it a fantastic, dark, edgy story? Yes. Despite the fact that the series is now this over-hyped craze out there, I really like this series and I'm glad that, despite my initial reservations, I gave it a go. It's worth it. 

9. The Maze Runner by James Dashner - I didn't think I'd like this series when I first started. I didn't think I'd like a book with a male MC because I was pretty positive that I wouldn't be able to access the MCs emotions. I was really, really wrong. I introduced this series to just about anyone who would listen to a single word I had to say, simply because I love it that much.

10. The Jenna Fox Chronicles by Mary E. Pearson - I was late to the game with the first book. In fact, I passed it over many, many times at the bookstore, just because I thought it wouldn't capture me. I was definitely wrong, and I was lucky enough to have read it within about 6 months of the sequel being released, which was equally awesome. Read it and love it. You will.

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme created by The Broke and the Bookish. The feature was created because they are particularly fond of lists over at The Broke and the Bookish. 

Each week they will post a new top ten list that one of our bloggers at The Broke and the Bookish will answer. Everyone is welcome to join. All they ask is that you link back to The Broke and the Bookish on your own Top Ten Tuesday post AND add your name to the Linky widget so that everyone can check out other bloggers lists! If you don't have a blog, just post your answers as a comment. Have fun with it! It's a great way to get to know your fellow bloggers.

Top Ten Words/Topics that Instantly Make Me Read (or Buy) a Book:

1. Dystopian - I think there must be something wrong with me because if a book is labeled as a dystopian novel, and there's something broken about a world within the pages, I simply MUST read it. Like, yesterday. 

2. Science Fiction - Hah. While much of the young adult genre was swept up in the notion of paranormal romance, the ideas of cyborgs and technology-advanced societies have been running rampant through my brain. I think I'm destined to write a sci-fi novel someday.

3. Realistic - This is a huge bone of contention with me because, while I've found a soft spot for contemporary fiction these days, I feel like it often deviates too far from reality. Tell me it's actually realistic, and you've got me, hook, line and sinker. (Just don't let me down.)

4. Michelle Hodkin - I'm a fangirl. Sue me. Add her name to a cover, or mention her in a tweet, and I'm there. Colour me nuts.

5. Animals - Seriously, animals and the environment are some of my biggest passions in the world. I love the idea of making a difference on a small or minute level, but that it can carry over into something bigger. Give me a book with an animal best friend, or a journey to save the animal or environment, and it's solid gold.

6. Harry Potter - Let's be honest. Do I really have to explain this one? I think not. You're welcome. 

7. Humour - I like sass. And snark. I like sassy snark...and I really like characters with an attitude. Give me a character that breaks the norm and defies the odds while maintaining a high level of these traits, and I'll likely want to be their best friend. Forever.
 
8. Time Travel - I think this one has to do with my penchant for one of my all-time favourite books, Time Windows. There's something so innately cool about the idea of traveling to long lost worlds or those that have yet to come to pass.

9. Horror - Like I said before. There's something wrong with me. I'm ok with it.

10. Overseas - I don't think I've read enough books set overseas. This is a big one for me lately. I really want new and exciting destinations within the pages of my books.

Let's Talk is a new weekly feature here at i swim for oceans. I think it's important that we all have our say, and there's something to be said for raising our voices. Simply put, here on the little old blog, I like to host some of my very own discussion posts because, well, I like to converse with you all.

And so, Let's Talk will feature questions or prompts, which I will answer, too. Love it or hate it, weigh in or don't, it's my hope that Let's Talk will at least get you thinking...and maybe even get you discussing with the rest of us!

Question: What are your top three favourite series of all time, and why?

I've often said I'm not really a series person, and that's not entirely true. I do love a good series. Truly. However, I do feel that series are a bit overplayed these days. There are some series (ahem...Shiver) that don't really need to be series in my humble opinion, whereas other stand-alones would royally rule as series. That said, regardless of my differing opinions, there are some series that I just can't help but love, and I can say with the utmost certainty that they will always be favourites of mine.

1. Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling - Ok, let's be honest here, guys. Is any list really complete without Harry? That's what I thought. I actually didn't start reading the series until the third book's release because, frankly, I thought I was MUCH too cool to read some dumb kids' book. I ate my words. My little sister, bless her, wore me down and convinced me to read them, and let's just say I was so obsessed with Harry that I attended many a midnight book release party...like this:

My point is that Harry Potter stays a favourite of mine because it's so much more than just sorcery and magic. It's about the magic of honour, and friends and truth. Values like that and worlds like the one in those books are simply incomparable.

2. Redwall by Brian Jacques - I don't know too many YA bloggers that understand my love of this series or have even read the series. I started it on a whim when I was about 12 years old. My older sister carried around Martin the Warrior, and it was a huge book. I wanted to look smart and carry a big book, too, so I decided I would...and I might as well try it, too. I was hooked from a few pages in. There is such incredible world-building in those books, and while they don't necessarily follow the same characters, the world and the values and morals stay the same. There is a beautiful, magical fantasy in those books that I love to lose myself in to this day.

3. Percy Jackson & The Olympians by Rick Riordan - I like a lot of good series, but this one managed to edge out of the competition on sheer entertainment value alone. I was convinced by a fellow blogger to give the first book a go when I was still a fledgling blogger. I did, and I read the first four books in three days...then I had to wait for the final book to come out. They're fun, they're engaging, they're a bit magical and silly, but they're mostly altogether just true entertainment at its best. I urge you to pick them up even if you think you're far too old for a MG series. You'll be pleasantly surprised, I'm sure.

Oh, and my runners up would have to be The Hunger Games, His Dark Materials, Vampire Academy and The Lying Game.

Let's Talk is a new weekly feature here at i swim for oceans. I think it's important that we all have our say, and there's something to be said for raising our voices. Simply put, here on the little old blog, I like to host some of my very own discussion posts because, well, I like to converse with you all.

And so, Let's Talk will feature questions or prompts, which I will answer, too. Love it or hate it, weigh in or don't, it's my hope that Let's Talk will at least get you thinking...and maybe even get you discussing with the rest of us!

Question: Do you prefer book to film or book to TV adaptations?

I was actually asked this question by a friend the other day, and it really got me thinking. To be honest, guys, I don't know of a ton of book to TV adaptations, but the ones I do know of, I quite appreciate and enjoy. That said, there are also some really great book to film adaptations out there, as well. It's hard to say that I enjoy any visual version more than the book, but you catch my drift. They all have their merits, right?

On one hand, you have book to film adaptations like Harry Potter that just soar. You guys know the depth of my love for all things Harry Potter, but the series honestly just got better and better - visually and emotionally. As the actors grew, so did the characters, and I felt such a strong connection with them. Though there were elements missing throughout (not TOO too many though), I felt like the films stayed pretty dang close to the books, themselves, which made the series that much better for me. And, as such, Harry Potter is probably my favourite book to film adapation series, overall. There are singular book to film adaptations that were beautifully done, as well, such as A Walk to Remember. However, I find myself struggling to find more stand-alone film adaptations that really pop for me.

Then you've got my favourite book to TV adaptation, The Vampire Diaries. I know there are a lot of book bloggers out there that didn't really love this book series. However, those same bloggers are often HUGE fans of this TV show, and can you really blame them? LJ Smith has a very distinct writing style that appeals to some and alienates others. However, the show creators bring the worlds within her books, as well as the characters, alive in a way that really breathes new life into the pages of her books. By giving us season upon season of the show, as well, we're given an opportunity to become fully invested in the characters, the storyline and the plot, as a whole. 

So, while part of me thinks this should be a toss-up, I'm actually going to have to say I like book to TV adaptations better. I think we have more time to actually flesh out the story and grow attached to the characters over time. Wouldn't it be amazing if we could tune into Harry and Hogwarts every night? I'm jussayin'.

Let's Talk is a new weekly feature here at i swim for oceans. I think it's important that we all have our say, and there's something to be said for raising our voices. Simply put, here on the little old blog, I like to host some of my very own discussion posts because, well, I like to converse with you all.

And so, Let's Talk will feature questions or prompts, which I will answer, too. Love it or hate it, weigh in or don't, it's my hope that Let's Talk will at least get you thinking...and maybe even get you discussing with the rest of us!

Question: If you could only read one genre for the rest of your life, what would it be, and why?

Some of you might hate me for this question, and colour me crazy, but I love it! Seriously, what's better than a question that really makes you sit down, limit yourself and think? Confession time: I love books. No. Really. I love pretty much anything and everything that is bound and can be read. Whether I love it or hate it, there's always a passion for it, and I will try any written thing once, as silly as that sounds. I've been asked a lot, however, what my favourite genre is.

At first, I think that's a super simple answer. Come on, guys. I review young adult literature. That pretty much means that YA lit is like gold to me. However, I'm a twenty-something lady who also loves memoirs, chick-lit, mysteries and a good ol' literary romp with shirtless (and pantless?) men every now and again. So sue me. Imagine for a moment that all your books are going to be stripped away except for a single genre. What would I want that to be. I actually put a lot of time and effort into this decision. My favourite reads vary, kids. We've got:

But we've also got:

So, what to do? I'm going with my gut on this one and stating that if I could only read one genre for the rest of my life, it would be young adult fantasy. Yes, I'm going that specific. While other genres are amazing, there's something so entirely limitless and freeing about this particular genre. Everything is possible. There's no pretentiousness or presumption. It's pure imagination - plain and simple. Yes, colour me crazy, but inside I'm still a 12 year old girl. Now, let's just pray we never really have to choose!

Let's Talk is what I like to call a semi-regular feature here at i swim for oceans. Does it happen every week? No. Will there be weeks when it happens more than once? Probably. Can you set your calendar by it? Heck no. Here on the little old blog, I like to host some of my very own discussion posts because, well, I like to converse with you all.

And so, Let's Talk will feature questions or prompts, which I will answer, too. Love it or hate it, weigh in or don't, it's my hope that Let's Talk will at least get you thinking...and maybe even get you discussing with the rest of us!

Question: What book from your childhood do you still cherish to this day?

Reading, in and of itself, defined my childhood, to be honest, and there were a lot of books that became instant favourites of mine. I remember reading for the sake of reading at that age. Anything and everything was fine with me, as long as it was the written word. I read those words like they were a breath of fresh air, and a lot of books played defining roles in my childhood. It's those books that I someday hope to pass on to my children someday, as well.

There are a few books, however, that stand out in my mind, and you've probably seen them mentioned on one or two of my Top Ten Tuesdays. One such book (ok, fine, I'm cheating) is actually a series. Most of you probably know about the Laura Ingalls Wilder books, but did you know her daughter, Rose Wilder Lane, had a series, too? I own every copy, and as battered as they are, I love them dearly. They're not the world's best writing, but they were real, and I became invested in her story. I grew up with Rose.

You know those books you read and re-read until the covers fall off, then you tape the cover back on and the pages become brittle and rip? Many Waters is that book for me. No, it's by no means the most powerful story in the world. Nor is it flawless in execution, but it presented something new to me. I was captivated by the fact that this book seamlessly merged the science-fiction genre with a classic Biblical story, Noah's Ark, and somehow was never blashphemous. The love story, the rich Biblical theme and the power of the prose speaks to me to this day.

Last, but certainly not least, no list is complete for me without Harry Potter. This series is one that I literally grew up with. I can't say enough good things about it either. The adventure, the heart, the themes, the rich storytelling - all of it merges into an epic series that, for all intents and purposes, transcends the genre and captures the hearts of pretty much all readers. I, personally, can't wait to share Harry with my children. 

What about you?

 If you'd like feature your own Let's Talk post, feel free to link it up!

TGIF is a new(ish) feature at one of my absolute favourite blogs, GReads!, hosted by the lovely Ginger. It's a way to celebrate the impending weekend, and answer fun questions. Most of all though, you get to know a wee bit more about all those awesome bloggers you meet. So, what are you waiting for? Do your own post and head on over to link up!

Which characters from a book do you love to hate?

First off, I must say that there really are FAR too many for me to name, so I'm going to have to go with my top five here. That said, I must also note that, yes, I'm aware that my list is dominated by Harry Potter characters. Sue me.

Ok...confession: I have more love for Severus Snape than hate. I love to hate him as much as I hate to love him. C'est la vie, mes cheries :)

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme created by The Broke and the Bookish. The feature was created because they are particularly fond of lists over at The Broke and the Bookish. They'd love to share their lists with other bookish folks and would LOVE to see your top ten lists!

Each week they will post a new top ten list that one of our bloggers at The Broke and the Bookish will answer. Everyone is welcome to join. All they ask is that you link back to The Broke and the Bookish on your own Top Ten Tuesday post AND add your name to the Linky widget so that everyone can check out other bloggers lists! If you don't have a blog, just post your answers as a comment. Have fun with it! It's a fun way to get to know your fellow bloggers.

Top Ten Books I Had VERY Strong Emotions About (cry, laugh, hurl across the room, etc.):

1. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix - Most people list the Deathly Hallows or Half-Blood Prince, but book five destroyed me. I mean, yes, Dumbledore is always in my heart, but I have two words for you, no matter what: Sirius. Black.

2. The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer - Honestly, it was the cliffhanger of doom that did me in on this one. Or Noah Shaw. Ok, fine. It was both. I laughed, I squeeeeeeed, and heck...I really did throw it across the room.

3. Where the Red Fern Grows - I have a thing for animals. It's not a secret. I swear we read the most miserable books in the fifth grade, and this is one of them. I'm sure it's a great book, but it scarred me for life.

4. The Last Silk Dress - That girl just couldn't catch a break. There's something about the Civil War South that always gets to me. This book, the love story and the pain the MC has to bear with her mother is almost enough to break even the most hardened reader.

5. Many Waters - I still maintain that no list is complete without this one. The end kills me every time, regardless of the fact that I know exactly what's going to happen and how it's going to happen. Without fail, I cry.

6. My Brother Sam Is Dead - This was another one of the miserable fifth grade reads we had. Seriously...were we supposed to learn about death and dying or something? If so, well done, school system. You scarred us!

7. Marley and Me - Sweet? Yes. Beautiful? Yes. Heartwarming? Yes. Heartbreaking? Hell yes. Doggies in books are a great combo. Doggies and sadness in books? Not ok.

8. Catching Fire - I loved book one, but book two sealed the deal for me. There was raw power, and sadness and a near loss of hope in this one. It was so riveting that I literally couldn't stop reading it.

9. The Long Weekend - There aren't too many books out there that can elicit sheer terror from me, but this one can. The fact that it's so tangible and so realistic is what seals the deal.

10. Dark Song - My reaction to this was somewhere between anger, horror, disgust, sadness and utter revulsion. Not too many books can make me feel such a strong and powerful sense of emotions, but this one sure did. One hundred percent.

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme created by The Broke and the Bookish. The feature was created because they are particularly fond of lists over at The Broke and the Bookish. They'd love to share their lists with other bookish folks and would LOVE to see your top ten lists!

Each week they will post a new top ten list that one of our bloggers at The Broke and the Bookish will answer. Everyone is welcome to join. All they ask is that you link back to The Broke and the Bookish on your own Top Ten Tuesday post AND add your name to the Linky widget so that everyone can check out other bloggers lists! If you don't have a blog, just post your answers as a comment. Have fun with it! It's a fun way to get to know your fellow bloggers.

Top Ten Books Whose Titles Or Covers Made Me Buy Them:

1. Wither by Lauren DeStefano - Granted, this one is gorgeous on a zillion different levels, but it's almost art, too, which is fabulous. Plus, I actually enjoyed the book.

2. Life As We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer - The colours and the moon on this cover sold me in a second when I first started blogging. I loved how each book of the series looked dark and haunting with an enormous moon looming overhead.

3. Here Lies Bridget by Paige Harbison - I adore this cover, and the colours in general, but I didn't love the book, unfortunately. It was certainly enough to make me crave the book though!

4. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan - I bought this one because of the title and because of the fact that it's based on Greek mythology. It was a great buy because I'm obsessed with the series.

5. Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling - This honestly goes without saying, but what good is a list without Harry? Any book with Harry in the title is an automatic win for me, as cheesy as that may be.

6. Paranormalcy by Kiersten White - Sue me, but I don't particularly love the cover of these ones. I do, however, love the title of this one, and that had me sold from the start.

7. Leaving Paradise by Simone Elkeles - Some books capture you with gorgeous, intricate covers. Others capture you because they're stark, bare and haunting. This one had me because of that.

8. The Water Wars by Cameron Stracher - This is truly one of the most stunning covers I've ever seen. I bought the book for that reason alone. I didn't love the book, but the cover is gold.

9. The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin - I had an ARC of this one, but I bough a hardcover, as well, because I needed two times the pretty on my shelf. I also won an art print of the cover, which I cannot wait to hang in all its glory.

10. I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore - I bought this because of the title - not because of the cover, though I don't mind the cover too much. It's a striking title, and it stands apart.

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme created by The Broke and the Bookish. The feature was created because they are particularly fond of lists over at The Broke and the Bookish. They'd love to share their lists with other bookish folks and would LOVE to see your top ten lists!

Each week they will post a new top ten list that one of our bloggers at The Broke and the Bookish will answer. Everyone is welcome to join. All they ask is that you link back to The Broke and the Bookish on your own Top Ten Tuesday post AND add your name to the Linky widget so that everyone can check out other bloggers lists! If you don't have a blog, just post your answers as a comment. Have fun with it! It's a fun way to get to know your fellow bloggers.

Top Ten Book Endings That Left Me With My Mouth Hanging Open :

1. The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin - Holy Cliffhanger of Doom. If you haven't read this one yet, you're seriously missing out. Not only is the book phenomenally tense, but the cliffhanger was one I never even saw coming. And I'm dying. Seriously. Dying. I need book two. PLEASE!

2. Leaving Paradise by Simone Elkeles - Though when I finished this one, I really wanted a second book, I wish I hadn't wished so hard for one. While, yes, it was left with tons of questions and a cliffhanger ending, it would have been perfect had it not been spoiled by book two, in my humble opinion.

3. Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins - Personally, I loved this book. I thought it was epic. The ending, however, was an epic letdown for me. Seriously? I was not expecting ribbons and bows, but I certainly got it...it was just a little unfulfilling, I guess.

4. Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson - This one blew my mind because the ending was perfect. It wasn't overdone, but it wasn't underwhelming either. There was a sense of justice and peace. I felt good when I closed the book.

5. In My Father's House by Ann Rinaldi - Oscie Mason was headstrong and willful. She wasn't looking for love, and she certainly wasn't expecting it in the middle of the Civil War with her stepfather and she constantly at odds. But she found it...and it was denied? What? Hey...no fair!

6. Raw Blue by Kirsty Eagar - I had so many emotions when I finished that this book, that my mouth would have been hanging open either way. I felt satisfied with Carly and Ryan's story, but at the same time, I wanted more. I wasn't finished watching Carly grow stronger, or Ryan break down her walls.

7. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J.K. Rowling - This book never fails to make me cry. For the record, I love all the books, but this one in particular was the changing of the tide in so many ways. I knew the story was getting darker, but this ending haunts me, and while it leads to the next book, I was still satisfied with how it ended...heartbroken, but satisfied.

8. Many Waters by Madeleine L'Engle - I know every list always has this on it, but it's one of my favourites. So, sue me. The ending of this one was sad, happy, heartbreaking, heartwarming and a million other things all at once. Did I love it? Heck yes. Did I wish it could have played out another way? Heck yes! Could it have worked another way? No, and that's why I love it every time.

9. Here Lies Bridget by Paige Harbison - Okay, maybe I'm not fair on this one because, frankly, I didn't like it, but still. Really? The ending was the epitome of everything fixing itself in about ten pages to create a happily ever after scenario. I might not like real life all the time, but it's more believable. This one didn't work for me, and the ending sealed the deal.

10. The Lying Game by Sara Shepard - This woman can write a cliffhanger. I loved the Pretty Little Liars series, but I think this one tops it, if I'm being honest. It consistently has me on my toes, and book one had me begging for book two right away.

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme created by The Broke and the Bookish. The feature was created because they are particularly fond of lists over at The Broke and the Bookish. They'd love to share their lists with other bookish folks and would LOVE to see your top ten lists!

Each week they will post a new top ten list that one of our bloggers at The Broke and the Bookish will answer. Everyone is welcome to join. All they ask is that you link back to The Broke and the Bookish on your own Top Ten Tuesday post AND add your name to the Linky widget so that everyone can check out other bloggers lists! If you don't have a blog, just post your answers as a comment. Have fun with it! It's a fun way to get to know your fellow bloggers.

Top Ten Books You Loved But Never Wrote A Review For:

1. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J.K. Rowling - Kids, I can review books. Trust me, I can. That said, I could never string enough perfect words together to embody the absolute incredible masterpiece that is this book. I'm just being honest. It's THAT good.

2. The Last Silk Dress by Ann Rinaldi - I don't know how the author captured the true voice and sentiment of a girl living and desperately trying to grow during the Civil War, but she did. The brother-sister bond, the struggles, the falling friendships...it's great.

3. The Book of Bright Ideas by Sandra Kring - No, it's not YA, but yes, it is an incredible and powerful book. It's the story of self-discovery and the tumultuous family ties that make it such a hard-hitting book.

4. Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden - The movie most certainly did not do this one justice. It's beautiful and poetic, sad and profound. It truly makes you think and feel for the struggles of a singular woman lost in a painted world.

5. Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson - I've read the book countless times. I've felt for Melinda, and I've wanted to comfort her. And yet, I can't put into words the power of this book. Nothing I could say would make it sound true.

6. Angels & Demons by Dan Brown - I don't like mysteries of thrillers. I don't. They tend to bore me with their less-than-lustrous plots and characters, but this is the one book of his that truly sings to me.

7. Pearls of Lutra by Brian Jacques - Yes, I'm aware the cast of characters is enormous. I'm also aware that they are all animals and the novel takes place in a host of different locales. That said, Jacques makes a fantasy world come alive from page one with true, heartfelt emotion.

8. The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare - I read this book so many times that the cover fell off and I had to buy another copy. I love the characters, the subtle romance, the drama...it all works together so well.

9. The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi - Maybe it isn't the most realistic plot, and maybe people think I'm stupid for listing this one, but it's one of those books that I was forced to read for honours english when I was in sixth grade, and I've loved it ever since.

10. Time Windows by Kathryn Reiss - I first read this in elementary school. (I just aged myself, I know). This book has such an intriguing concept, a lovable MC, and a mystery with a touch of supernatural, as well, that lends for a fast, engaging and entertaining read.

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme created by The Broke and the Bookish. The feature was created because they are particularly fond of lists over at The Broke and the Bookish. They'd love to share their lists with other bookish folks and would LOVE to see your top ten lists!

Each week they will post a new top ten list that one of our bloggers at The Broke and the Bookish will answer. Everyone is welcome to join. All they ask is that you link back to The Broke and the Bookish on your own Top Ten Tuesday post AND add your name to the Linky widget so that everyone can check out other bloggers lists! If you don't have a blog, just post your answers as a comment. Have fun with it! It's a fun way to get to know your fellow bloggers.

Top Ten Tuesday Freebie (anything literary you'd like!):

I've been waiting for this one for a while. It's time I honour my all-time favourite series with a full post, and thus, I'm doing my top ten favourite characters from Harry Potter!

1. Albus Dumbledore - He will always be at the top of my list. Whether he was giving silly speeches (nitwit, blubber, oddment, tweak?), consoling and guiding Harry, or leading good wizards on a path of good magic and decency, he was a hero. I've never cried so hard about a character before in my life, but Dumbledore was it. He was the epitome of perfection for me.

2. Sirius Black - We never really got to know James Potter, so what I can figure is that Sirius is as close to a father as Harry ever really had. Despite his demons and his tragic past, Sirius loved Harry for all he was worth. His character made Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix for me.

3. Severus Snape - So sue me...his bark was far worse than his bite. Even though he was pretty much a greasy, slimy little douchebag rat for most of the book, he redeemed himself in the end. Plus, the depth of his character was fantastic.

4. Dobby - He wasn't the biggest character in stature, perhaps, but his role was more powerful than some of the biggest and baddest in the entire series. One little house elf changed Harry's life and many more, plus his heart and spirit was far bigger than he was. I want to keep him for myself.

5. Bellatrix Lestrange - Now, before you kill me or call me a Death Eater, allow me to clarify. She's one nasty b*tch, but good Lord is she a crazy good character. I mean, she's psycho, for sure, but without her, the final installments of Harry Potter would be lacking their token freak.

6. Ron Weasley - Oh, Ronald. How I love thee. Perhaps it's because he's so unsure of himself and self-deprecating, or perhaps it's because he's nearly always there for Harry, or even perhaps it's because he's just a kind, good person. Ron is faithful and true, and without him, Harry would be missing half of who he was.

7. Voldemort - No, I do not love Voldemort, but I love his characterization, for sure. Think of evil incarnate, and he's right up there with the devil, himself. It's not that his physical appearance matches how evil I would imagine him to be, but rather than he's that heinous. Just when I thought he couldn't get worse, he did.

8. Neville Longbottom - He's so cooky. I mean, c'mon. The poor guy was a blathering fool for a good bit, but he had a heart of gold. To watch him transform into the hero he so desperately wanted to be was a real treat.

9. Luna Lovegood - While we're talking about cooky characters, allow me to say how much I stinkin' love this girl! She's so strange! There was absolutely nothing normal about her which made her that much more intriguing, plus she didn't give a crap what anyone thought about her.

10. Hagrid - He's got a heart as big as he is - perhaps even bigger, if that's possible. I remember thinking he was like a big, doofus teddy-bear when I first read about him, but watching him grow from friend, to mentor, to ally to Harry was incredible, and I loved him every moment.