Ruby Loves Adventure

Nowadays, traveling is an essential part of life. It is a chance to explore new places, learn more about yourself and the culture of the place you are going to and is an adventure, in itself. A chance to know that you are just one tiny being in the huge world we are moving in.

Very few people do get a chance to travel, and very few people get an opportunity to take a few years off and just discover what's out there. In this book, Trent Newcomer decides to leave his corporate job and the safety of his routine life back at home and just backpack to different countries. He traveled for over a year and a half, and this book is his memoir, so to speak, of those travels: the places he visited, and the people he met along the way. With every new place, he did not have a set itinerary, only a goal: to continuously strive to expand the  boundaries of his comfort zone.

This book is biographical so I cannot comment much on characters, settings, and the like, so this review is also non-traditional in a sense. I admire Trent for having the guts to do this. I know it isn't easy to leave the comfort of your life back home, with a steady-paying job, your friends, and just go off on your own over yonder. I admire him for not having a steady itinerary and not jumping in to some of the tourist traps that the countries he had went to offered. As you read through the book, you'll have a feeling of wanting to go to the places he went as well. He described his adventures so vividly and provided information on the places he stayed in and areas that few travelers would ever think of going, which are hidden gems of the area, so to speak.  His feelings are clear in the book: there are no holds barred, like his fears of entering a mountain bike race when he is physically unprepared, and how customs officials may single you out for not exactly having the best appearance whilst on the border.

The book is an enjoyable read, it is informative for future travelers like me who intend to follow in the example that Trent has led. He and so many others have proven to the world, that yes, it can be done, and you just need to take the first step to reach the goals that you want. And well, yes, lots of planning beforehand [the places, how much it would cost, and maybe contact long-lost friends along the way]. However, I feel as if the chapters and the narratives on the countries he visited were a bit too short. I feel it left me hanging and gives me the thought "that's it??" Perhaps Trent should have presented the book by continent, to provide more information on what he did in a particular country, but that's just me. I know it must have been hard for him to trim down his memoirs from his 4000++ page journal into the 300+ page book that he has presented now. Fellow readers, please also keep an open mind as you read the book. Not all the situations Trent has found himself on his travels may happen to you, after all, it has been 15 years since he has embarked on this trip and things may have changed since then. And within those 15 years, we have been blessed with budget airlines, fast trains, mobile internet, GPS-enabled phones, so we have it easier right now compared to what he has encountered before.

This book is a light read, and will definitely inspire you to see more of the world and just step out of your comfort zone, however hard it may prove to be. All you need is to take that first step and you are on your way!

And so, on to the rating & information:
Published: 2009
Publisher:  iUniverse
Available from: Barnes & Noble and the iUniverse bookstore.
Final Rating:  4/5 [I liked it, it is very inspiring, as I have said again and again in my post above]
Read it if: You want to discover new places to go to and want to be inspired in people's travel stories.

**Many, many thanks to Trent Newcomer for sending this book over. **

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren and inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie.  It features bought, borrowed, or received books as well as other cool stuff from the mail. Isn't it fun?

For this week, I've received quite a few parcels and bought a few books but I wasn't able to take photos of them so they'll be featured in the future installments of the In My Mailbox post! :)

I'm finally finally trying to catch up with the backlog now so I hope you guys don't mind! I don't have any planned events until the last week of February so I can breathe again! LOL.

So, what did I get in my Mailbox for this week?


Bought:
- Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief ---> In preparation for the movie that I'm scheduled to watch on February 20th! I'm currently on page 220 of this and it's got me hooked! I'm still deliberating whether I'll get the second book already or just borrow but it's pulling me to buy the second book already!!!

- Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince --> Okay. I have a confession. I have six Harry Potter books [bought the first third and the fifth, and the fourth and seventh book were given to me as gifts]  but I never even bothered to get the sixth book. So here I am, trying to catch up with my TBR of Harry Potter goodness. I'm currently reading the fourth book [what a loser I am for still not reading all seven boks]. I took up a Harry Potter reading challenge so hopefully I'll get to finish reading all 7 books within this year :) And..... I cheated and got some nice audiobooks of the series too to help me out :P

For Review:
- The Girl Made of Cool by Alan Fox - This is a book composed of a new novel as well as some other stories by the author. It's loooove stories, so is quite good for this love month! Many many many thanks to Alan and his publisher, StoryFocus, for sending this book to me! I can't wait to read it :)

A synopsis of the book from Amazon.com:
Featuring a new novel and two other stories by Alan Fox. ---- Author ALAN FOX writes love stories, filled with a sense of awe and wonder, and set against a brutal world. "THE GIRL MADE OF COOL" is his vibrant new novel and the centerpiece of this collection. Here, Fox tells the story of a young man and woman who are falling in love with each other, but the young woman doesn't know it. She believes that she's falling in love with the man's far more handsome, more perfect friend. ... As the story unfolds and deepens, we see how these two highly talented young men must suffer, struggle, and wage battle to woo this young woman. This, as all the while, she grows into an ever greater beauty, a more charismatic personality, and an all-the-more alluring woman. ... This, as all the while, this young lady grows to become an elegant woman made of shining love and elusive cool. -- Also featured here in this collection, you will find: The Novel "HELL HAS BLUE SKIES" -- A love story about intense relationships in an office, whose unusual line of business is to train people to become 'world-class experts.' And the short story "THE LOVELY LADY AT THE LOVE MUSEUM" -- A colorful tale of romance and high-level maneuvering in the big city. ---- ABOUT THE AUTHOR. Alan Fox writes love stories about people looking for a sense of wonder in a brutal world, people pursuing beauty in the face of insanity. His previous novel, "The Seeker in Forever," is now available in a second revised edition.

Cleopatra VII is one of the most known historical figures of all time. Her love story with Marc Antony, was also considered to be one of the most well-known throughout the world. But what most of us didn't know was that their love had produced three children: Alexander, Cleopatra Selene, and Ptolemy.

The book begins at 31BC, when Octavian defeats Marc Antony's forces at the Battle of Actium. We all know what happens, Marc Antony and Cleopatra commit suicide to avoid being taken as prisoner by Octavian and their three children were taken to Rome by Octavian.

The rest of the novel chronicles the early life of Cleopatra Selene, and is told in her point of view, as she experiences and sees Rome. How Alexandria is so much different to Rome, how she fears for her life, as she awaits Octavian's orders to marry her off to a senator, and basic, everyday life in Rome with her friends.

Thoughts - This novel is well-researched as I read about numerous rituals, gods, and "events" happening in Ancient Rome and Egypt. I am fascinated by how the author fed me these information - it's as if I was living in those times as well. And I would never have known all about those rituals, gods, and events, had it not for me 1) reading the book and 2) researching them as well.
This book also chronicles a glossary at the back, so if you get lost in the wonder that is Ancient Rome and Egypt, head on to the glossary and you'll have something to guide your way. Although not everything is explained or described in the glossary, if you're a curious reader like myself, you'll spend hours traipsing around Wikipedia, searching for the characters, events, and terms!Some of the buildings described in the novel may not be standing anymore [ie the Library of Alexandria], it's definitely fun to imagine them! There's even a map at the front part of the book to let you imagine how Rome looked like way back then. And also plots Europe and the other cities in there. Excellent.

Although the book may become boring at some parts, the mystery of the Red Eagle will be sure to rouse you a bit. But for those of you who are looking for an action-packed novel, well, there's definitely not a lot in this book, so don't expect too much. However, I found myself wondering what would happen next to the characters so I'm guilty of looking through the next few pages [oh all right, even right through to the last chapters], trying to get a sneak peek of what might happen next!

Overall, the book was an honest and pretty accurate description of daily life in Ancient Rome. How much simpler the times were then, and how various forces eventually shaped the characters of Tiberius [who will eventually become the Roman Emperor when Jesus was crucified], Selene, Julia, Marcellus, Juba, and Agrippa. I feel these characters were well-developed and felt very "alive", although Selene's stubbornness has got me annoyed most of the time. But hey, feeling annoyed at a character definitely means the book got to you, right?

The author went all ou to try and give a very visual representation and feeling to the readers that they are indeed in that time, that place. Exquisite attention to the details too! Very informational for readers like me. This book made me want to get on a plane and explore Alexandria and Rome, and see some of the structures that were still standing!

So, on to the rating & information:
Published: 2009
Publisher: Crown
Final Rating: 4.5/5
Read it if: You're looking for something historical to read and want to learn more about Ancient Egypt!

Many, many thanks to Michelle Moran for providing a copy of the book!

I completely spazzed out and realized that the links I'm posting at Kristi's site for 2010 have been wrong!

Anyway, In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren and inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie.  It features bought, borrowed, or received books as well as other cool stuff from the mail. Isn't it fun?

For this week:

Received in the mail:




When Hugh's father suffers a debilitating heart attack, Hugh must return to the New England home he's been running away from for the past ten years. One day, he encounters Iris - who has long since moved away - on the street. They begin a friendship and Hugh believes he's falling in love with Iris all over again.

But the ghost of Chase haunts both of them. And when each reveals a truth the other never knew, their lives, their vision of Chase, and their chances for a future together will change forever.


So, that's it for now, until next week. What did you get in your mailboxes this week?

Last Saturday, I got a chance to watch Sherlock Holmes at the cinemas!

By golly, I waited for this for a month, given that it was shown elsewhere last 2009, but only got to watch it this 2010! Jeez, what a loser. One part being that from the third week of December 2009 until the second week of January 2010, only local [ie Filipino] movies were being shown from a film festival. Ugh.

Anyway, the plotline is quite simple [and here's me without giving any spoilers]: Holmes was called in to a case wherein he was chasing after Lord Blackwood, stopping a crime involving magic & human sacrifice. He catches Blackwood, he was tried and hanged. But wait! Blackwood rose from the dead! And Holmes was called again to capture Blackwood and find out how he did his death-defying act.

Simple enough, eh?

I wouldn't give away any other parts of the movie because I came in the cinema with absolutely nothing! No spoilers, nothing, and I guess that's what made me enjoy and appreciate the movie more. Although the movie is not based on any of A. Conan Doyle's novel, the story gave it enough justice, staying loyal to the methods of Holmes on how he apprehended the perpetrator, and the steps the perps went through as they were doing their deeds as was described in the novels and short stories. Holmes mastery of disguise was also clearly shown in the movie. Look closer at some of the characters and you'll realize that it's Holmes, playing another part!

Robert Downey Jr as Holmes was awesome. Hands down. No wonder he was nominated [or won?] several awards from his portrayal of Holmes. Jude Law was also great as Watson! I loved their bromance and banter on the screen! Absolutely entertaining!

Loooooved the costumes and setting as well! Costumes were typical of the 19th century. Setting-wise, several London landmarks that we now know and love today were featured! St. Paul's Cathedral, Big Ben & the Houses of Parliament, and Tower Bridge. I loved that they showed the Tower Bridge when it was still under construction at the time. It was the perfect backdrop! One thing that caught my eye as well: Eros at Piccadilly Circus!! It's an amazing contrast to the Piccadilly of now, where there's neon signs in one area! Wheeee!! Okay. I am biased. I loooooove London hence plus points for the movie to be set there! =) The Thames also has a major part in the movie! Watch out for that!

One complaint though: in the movie, Holmes has a tendency to talk very, very quickly! It's quite hard to catch on what he's saying, as his words may sometimes be fuddled with Downey's fake British accent. Then again, that's my only complaint!

The ending is open-ended in such a way that there might be a sequel in the works! Wheeeee!!!! I hope there will be one! I'll keep on googling it! 

I'll give this movie a 4.5/5!! Very worth your money!! Go watch it!

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren and inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie.

It features bought, borrowed, or received books as well as other cool stuff from the mail. Isn't it fun?

So last week, I didn't get to post anything -- blame the busy day job schedule! Since typing this post, I've also received two parcels but I'll feature them for next week's IMM since I don't have time to type this post on a Saturday as well!

I got the following today:

Mail:

An Advanced Review Copy of "Explorer-X Alpha" by LM Preston! This is my first ever ARC so many, many, many thanks LM for sending this book over to me even though I live on the other side of the world! I can't wait to read and review this!

I also got some swag from LM Preston -- a poster and a magnet for Explorer-X Alpha. I also got a bookmark and a magnet featuring LM Preston's new book, "The Pack" which is coming out Fall 2010! Wheee..

Do get a copy of Explorer-X Alpha and add it in your 2010 Debut Authors Reading List! :)






Bought:

And so, here I was at my favourite bookstore and I saw a bargain bin! So, off I was, looking for anything interesting when I saw "The Girl Who Played with Fire" by Stieg Larsson. ON SALE! It's the UK version too, so it's huge and fat and gooorgeous! I got it for around $4.50 [PHP 200] but that means I'll have to get book 1 too! Yaaay

As I said from my previous post, I received two parcels yesterday but don't have time to post them today. As a teaser, it contains a book and some author swag. wheee.

So, what was in your mailbox this week? Care to share?

Harry Potter is back on his second year at Hogwarts! This time, with even more adventures and lessons along the way! This year, strange happenings have been going on at Hogwarts, which all points strangely to the legend of the Chamber of Secrets! Will Harry ever survive the monster hidden within the depths of the chamber?

Thoughts:
My first book for 2010!! What a good read it has been! I didn't imagine I'd finish it this quickly. Anyway, I initially re-read this book as part of the Harry Potter book challenge on at GalleySmith, which I'm doing badly on as I need to finish all 7 books by July 2010. Here's hoping that I get to finish this!

Anyway, back to the review of the second book. It's faster-paced compared to the first book, and this time, the characters are more defined and I get to learn more spells and "wizard terms" so to speak. I got to know some new characters as well, including the mandatory new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. I'm learning all about magical enchantments and othe rmagical creatures!

This book definitely did not lack in trying to explain what had happened to Ginny and Tom Riddle. Although the book did not necessarily build Ginny's character at all, it helped build more stronger relationships and character backgrounds for Ron, Harry and Hermione. This book also provides a stepping stone to the other Harry Potter books, which I spent time trying to figure out and remembering who played a part in what on the latter parts of the books.

Quite a quick read, so definitely good to start my new year, it's definitely a boost to the stats! It's also written in such a way that anyone could understand it: young adults, and adults alike! I like!

Overall, I'll give it a 4/5 rating! I know most of you guys have either already read the books or seen the movie so go watch or read them again :) Harry definitely is part of our pop culture now and is here to stay!

Below is Ruby & Yam's Amazon wishlist. I recently got a $25 gift certificate from Amazon and I'm stoked to buy stuff online that's not available in my country! =)

But first off, HUGE apologies for not updating my blog. My day job work has been so stressful this past two weeks, only posts I've scheduled for the first week of January have been posted in my blog. Whenever I get home, I just want to sleep and/or check my personal email or just relax. *sigh* year-end blues! I need a holiday, quick!

Regular blog updates would happen starting today [until the next month-end comes] eeeeep!

See ya!

The Young Victoria is a British movie that chronicles the early life of Victoria as she ascended to the throne of England. It shows how she was very protected as a child, not being able to interact with any other children, would need to hold someone's hand as she was walking down the stairs, and had to share a bedroom with her mother. The movie also chronicles how Victoria and Albert had met, and how their love story had blossomed.

This movie was such a blast for me to watch! I love all things England, so was thrilled when I saw that it was showing on a limited engagement at the local cinemas. For starters, I don't really know much about Albert & Victoria, much less gone to most of the famous landmarks that were left in their honor in London, so I came to watch this movie with an open book, willing to learn and understand more about them. Now, that's a disadvantage to me because I don't know which parts are historically correct and which parts were just exaggerated for the cinematography.

The setting, costumes, and actors were very brilliant. The Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace scenes were believable, as were the period costumes at the time. The actors also showed the youth of both Prince Albert and Queen Victoria, as I tihnk most of us only know them as part of history now, and don't give them much thought. Emily Blunt as Queen Victoria? Absolutely AMAZING! Rupert Friend as Prince Albert? HOT! And very, very, very believable! Their chemistry on screen was sizzling! And in some scenes, they managed to make me cry. And bawl. Like a baby. Yes. It's that good.

My biggest surprise in the movie was that Queen Victoria proved to be quite a looker when she was younger! I googled her paintings when she was younger and she wasn't the grieving, rotund widow that is usually portrayed of her. And Prince Albert! Oh my gosh. He was a stunner!! Look through Wikipedia and you'll see how he was when he was younger!

Go and watch this movie, if its showing in your area! I think its in limited engagement only but it's definitely a must-see

Books on the Spotlight is a monthly event I'm doing to highlight books that I've been reading and would feature reviews in the next few weeks.

For January 2010, the books I hope to complete and post reviews of are as follows:
*all images searched from google images; product descriptions from Amazon.com*

Extravagance - Gary Krist.

William Tobias Merrick, an energetic young man from the provinces, travels to the big city in a time of great optimism and ferment, hoping to make his mark on a frenzied, money-crazed society obsessed with the promise of new technologies.

The city in question is London in the 1690s; but it is also New York in the 1990s. The new technologies are diving bells, pneumatic winches, and "sucking-worm" drainage engines; but they are also wireless telecommunication devices, patented biotechnology processes, and revolutionary electronic Internet routers. Only the sense of unlimited possibility remains the same throughout.

Unfolding simultaneously in two distant--but remarkably similar--periods of history, Extravagance is a comic, pictaresque novel of financial mania, the story of a world gripped by a terminal case of irrational exuberance. Navigating the perils of both eras is a single cast of characters: Will himself, a young man on the make, eager to do whatever it takes to make his fortune; Will's uncle (and sponsor) Gilbert Hawking, a shrewd businessman with one foot in the Old Economy and one in the New; Benjamin Fletcher, the developer of a pioneering new technology destined to set the world on fire; and Theodore Witherspoon, the cheerfully unscrupulous wizard of the financial markets who promises to make them all wealthy beyond their dreams.

Meanwhile, Will's aspirations are complicated by his pursuit of Ben Fletcher's sister, Eliza, the gorgeous and disconcertingly aggressive woman who is as desirable as she is elusive. Can Will succeed in his efforts to win both Eliza and the fortune that her brother's new technology seems likely to bring him? And can he make it all happen before the general euphoria of the age reaches its inevitable climax?

Extravagance is a uniquely conceived work of high comic entertainment -- an ultra-smart time machine of a novel that proves that both love and greed are timeless.


Harry Potter & the Chamber of Secrets

 The Dursleys were so mean and hideous that summer that all Harry Potter wanted was to get back to the Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry. But just as he's packing his bags, Harry receives a warning from a strange, impish creature named Dobby who says that if Harry Potter returns to Hogwarts, disaster will strike.

And strike is does. For in Harry's second year at Hogwarts, fresh torments and horrors arise, including an outrageous stuck-up new professor, Gilderoy Lockheart, a spirit named Moaning Myrtle who haunts the girls' bathroom, and the unwanted attentions of Ron Weasley's younger sister, Ginny.

But each of these seem minor annoyances when the real trouble begins, and someone--or something--starts turning Hogwarts students to stone. Could it be Draco Malfoy, a more poisonous rival than ever? Could it possibly be Hagrid, whose mysterious past is finally told? Or could it be the one everyone at Hogwarts most suspects...Harry Potter himself?