Quarter Three: Dry by Augusten Burroughs

This book is different from anything that I've read in a while, it's a memoir. It's a true story based on things that actually happened. I am so used to reading fiction books that this one is a nice change of pace. It is not as exciting as the other books I've read this year, which is why I am reading it at a slower pace. There isn't really any suspense with this book, it just tells an unfortunate story of an alcoholic and how the drug ruined his life. It is a very powerful book and I was happy when Augusten finally realized that he was an alcoholic and drank way too much. I like how the book is written, I can hear his voice come through. He is not afraid to write what he is thinking, even if it includes a curse here and there. But in a way that makes the book more real for me. I don't think this book is going to pick up any more, but I am looking forward to seeing how Augusten gets over his addiction.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

This book was interesting because it was a common plot, yet written in a different light. It is the story about a teenage boy going through high school, and all the troubles he faces. The book had many relatable components since I am a teenager in high school as well, which made it nice to read. The thing that made this book different is that it was written in the form of letters to an unknown receiver. The person never wrote back, he or she just kept receiving letters that explained everything that was going on in Charlie's life. I could really get an image of Charlie's personality from the way he wrote his letters. He seemed sort of unaware of certain things and like a sensitive, kind kid. He also seemed to be a "newbie" with the whole high school experience. Something else that I also really liked about this book was the fact that it was a quick read. I was able to finish it in 2 days which was a change. The only negative I have about this book was that the ending was sort of confusing. I didn't really understand who Charlie was writing to even after I finished the story. It was an easy, relaxing read. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to finish a book quickly and likes realistic fiction.

Catching Fire - Finished

I finished this book rather quickly as well. As I read, the pages just seemed to fly by without me noticing. When I finally looked down out of curiosity, I would be on something crazy like 150 all of a sudden! That's how I know I liked this book. I didn't feel like I was reading, rather I was watching a movie or something. I wasn't aware of the words on the page, just the images. Suzanne Collins did a great job with this book just as she did in the first one, The Hunger Games. Yes, the plot is very unique and interesting but I don't know if everyone would enjoy it. Her stories take a bit of imagination and acceptance, and I think someone who likes a thrill would enjoy this book. She ends each chapter with a cliff hanger to make you want to read more. The only negative thing I have to say about this book was that the ending was sort of confusing. I wasn't entirely sure why not everyone died, although she did make an effort to explain. There is a third book to this series coming out soon and I can't wait to read it. I am a fan and I love that I can breeze through one of her books easily without having to over think anything. It was in a strange way relaxing.

Catching Fire

Collins does not disappoint in her second novel, Catching Fire. As I continue to read, more surprising things occur. The Capitol is still mad at Katniss for challenging their power and making them look weak during the Hunger Games. She found a way for both her and Peeta to survive by almost committing a Romeo-Juliet type suicide involving poison berries. The Capitol hates Katniss for this, and they also tracked her post Hunger Games. They found out that she has another guy friend, Gale and is aware of the fact that he kissed her. Now, they know that Katniss had been pretending to love Peeta the entire time, which is another act of defiance on her part. As Katniss and Peeta now go on tour to the different districts to accept awards and give speeches, Katniss is in a tough place. The Capitol is executing anyone who supports her or follows her lead. This is done to prevent uprisings and revolutions. I feel bad for Katniss because she is obviously very confused, feeling guilty and under a lot of pressure. Still, I can't put this book down and I can't wait until I can read some more.