Well, my "The Only Exception" readers may not know this but my "Can I Stay By Your Side" readers would know. I have put myself on a writing hiatus. As quoted from the recent chapter of "Can I Stay By Your Side", there are "major changes in my life" and some time is needed for me to adapt to my normal lifestyle.
I did not really mention what they were on fanfiction.net (for obvious reasons), but I can say them here, of course. So here's what I've been up to:
1. Wedding.
Yup, I'm preparing for my wedding. If that's not reason enough, I don't know what else it can be. Funny thing is, I kinda thought my preparations were scaled down. Yet, the amount of things to do and the amount of people to bug me to stop procrastinating... *sigh*
So after the wedding in mid-November, I'll head off for my honeymoon and will only be back in mid-December. Thus the need for a long hiatus.
2. Work
Bah, this is always what I'm doing. Next.
3. Manga
I'm still enjoying my time with the wonderful Japanese stories out there and I have not had my fill yet. Thus... *gestures at the pile of my own unwritten stories*
4. Games
Not only am I playing some random game on my ipad, I'm watching the Kingdom Hearts playthrough on Youtube. It took me the longest time to get around it but I'm finally doing it. By the way, I'm watching the original and not the Final Mix (because I wanted to).
As you can see, my priorities have shifted again. And since my announcement of hiatus, I really... really haven't written much. Probably less than a hundred words for the last two months or so. Mental block is really killing me here *slumps*
Saturday, October 24, 2015
Thursday, October 15, 2015
4 years!
Wow. Look at that.
It's been 4 years since I've started this blog. My original idea was just to have some kind of place for me to go on and on because I realised that I was talking too much on fanfiction.net. And now, my little blog has exploded to something of a whole cauldron of book reviews, writing experiences and chapter notes.
Writing to an invisible (and probably non-existent, heheh) Internet audience, reading and recording my thoughts of each book that I read (how else do you think I can create my reviews after such a long time?) and penning down the various thoughts I have whenever I write another fanfiction title... these are all things that I treasure very much and I am glad that I have started this blog. One day, even if I were to stop writing altogether, I have this little thing to remind me of what I was once passionate for.
Hey, let's not get paranoid here... I'm still writing. Well, trying to write amdist my busy-ness. No one is saying that I'm not writing for good.
Whether anyone is reading this, I just want to thank you, my fanfiction readers, for keeping me going for such a long time.
It's been 4 years since I've started this blog. My original idea was just to have some kind of place for me to go on and on because I realised that I was talking too much on fanfiction.net. And now, my little blog has exploded to something of a whole cauldron of book reviews, writing experiences and chapter notes.
Writing to an invisible (and probably non-existent, heheh) Internet audience, reading and recording my thoughts of each book that I read (how else do you think I can create my reviews after such a long time?) and penning down the various thoughts I have whenever I write another fanfiction title... these are all things that I treasure very much and I am glad that I have started this blog. One day, even if I were to stop writing altogether, I have this little thing to remind me of what I was once passionate for.
Hey, let's not get paranoid here... I'm still writing. Well, trying to write amdist my busy-ness. No one is saying that I'm not writing for good.
Whether anyone is reading this, I just want to thank you, my fanfiction readers, for keeping me going for such a long time.
Tuesday, September 8, 2015
The Only Exception: Chapter 2 to 13
For the benefit of new readers, since I've just advertised for my blog recently, this blog is a random collections of my thoughts of writing, including my thoughts for the chapters that I've written.
Well I'll be.
I have not written a single thing regarding this fanfiction since the year started. Then again, it's been a while since I wrote anything.
The last fanfiction post that I've written was actually on the last chapter of "Days of Exile". Since then, I've begun writing yet another story in the Final Fantasy 7 fandom, which was "The Only Exception". I've also written a story in the Katekyo Hitman Reborn fandom, but that's a story for another time.
As I have mentioned in my story, the inspiration of this story came from the song "The Only Exception" by Paramore. I like many songs from the band and you'll see that if I were to write a fic on singing, I would draw the inspiration most from Paramore.
The initial intention was to make each story one chapter each, thus ending this in 4 chapters. Alas, I was unable to. Even now as I'm writing Vincent's story, I marvel at how I could keep Tifa's story within 3 chapters.
Story of Tifa
This part is most like a shoujo manga. Short and fast paced, with ridiculous story development. I enjoyed writing the story and I'm glad that I could finish it in three chapters. I wanted to finish it in two though.
One of the things that I could never come to terms with is Cloud's personality. Should he be carefree? Gloomy and pessimistic? Thanks SquareEnix, for creating a schizo character that fanfic writers cannot put their fingers to.
Also, this is one of my BIGGEST mistakes when typing on my ipad. It frustrates me to no end.
Story of Aerith
For this one? I planned to end in 4 chapters. I ended up writing across 7 chapters.
It was natural that the Tifa and Aerith story were connected, but I did not intend to connect the latter two stories in any way. The connection between Tifa and Aerith's stories gave me the idea to continue connecting so that it becomes a whole, just like the song.
Aerith's story was a little hard to churn out as there were many routes that I wanted to take. The one that you are reading right now (Zack being KAI and Gast was really a bad father) was the original idea. However, when I was writing Chapter 8, I struggled a week because I had another idea which was that Gast was actually KAI, not Zack. Zack was the song writer for Gast/KAI. Zack helped Aerith reconcile with her father. That was seriously a route that I considered, but I decided to stick to my original idea in the end. Didn't turn out too bad either, I thought.
There was also an idea to link the main character of the fourth story to be the step-sister of Aerith, but that was (thankfully) scraped. Later on, when I was writing Vincent's story, I thought it would be awesome to help Elmyra Gainsborough as Vincent's housekeeper. Oh well, too late. The story of Aerith was already published, so Elmyra will remain as an accountant :)
Story of Vincent
Another unexpected story. I am still writing it (very painfully).
It's funny because I have the story in my head. All I had to do is to write it, but getting down to it was easier said than done.
Making Vincent Valentine a protagonist was a first for me. I admit that Vincent was a little out of character in some instances, so in terms of character portrayal, I'm not terribly proud of myself. Still, I like how the story is progressing. Better luck with the fourth story *pats own back*
----------
Well I'll be.
I have not written a single thing regarding this fanfiction since the year started. Then again, it's been a while since I wrote anything.
The last fanfiction post that I've written was actually on the last chapter of "Days of Exile". Since then, I've begun writing yet another story in the Final Fantasy 7 fandom, which was "The Only Exception". I've also written a story in the Katekyo Hitman Reborn fandom, but that's a story for another time.
As I have mentioned in my story, the inspiration of this story came from the song "The Only Exception" by Paramore. I like many songs from the band and you'll see that if I were to write a fic on singing, I would draw the inspiration most from Paramore.
The initial intention was to make each story one chapter each, thus ending this in 4 chapters. Alas, I was unable to. Even now as I'm writing Vincent's story, I marvel at how I could keep Tifa's story within 3 chapters.
Story of Tifa
This part is most like a shoujo manga. Short and fast paced, with ridiculous story development. I enjoyed writing the story and I'm glad that I could finish it in three chapters. I wanted to finish it in two though.
One of the things that I could never come to terms with is Cloud's personality. Should he be carefree? Gloomy and pessimistic? Thanks SquareEnix, for creating a schizo character that fanfic writers cannot put their fingers to.
Also, this is one of my BIGGEST mistakes when typing on my ipad. It frustrates me to no end.
Story of Aerith
For this one? I planned to end in 4 chapters. I ended up writing across 7 chapters.
It was natural that the Tifa and Aerith story were connected, but I did not intend to connect the latter two stories in any way. The connection between Tifa and Aerith's stories gave me the idea to continue connecting so that it becomes a whole, just like the song.
Aerith's story was a little hard to churn out as there were many routes that I wanted to take. The one that you are reading right now (Zack being KAI and Gast was really a bad father) was the original idea. However, when I was writing Chapter 8, I struggled a week because I had another idea which was that Gast was actually KAI, not Zack. Zack was the song writer for Gast/KAI. Zack helped Aerith reconcile with her father. That was seriously a route that I considered, but I decided to stick to my original idea in the end. Didn't turn out too bad either, I thought.
There was also an idea to link the main character of the fourth story to be the step-sister of Aerith, but that was (thankfully) scraped. Later on, when I was writing Vincent's story, I thought it would be awesome to help Elmyra Gainsborough as Vincent's housekeeper. Oh well, too late. The story of Aerith was already published, so Elmyra will remain as an accountant :)
Story of Vincent
Another unexpected story. I am still writing it (very painfully).
It's funny because I have the story in my head. All I had to do is to write it, but getting down to it was easier said than done.
Making Vincent Valentine a protagonist was a first for me. I admit that Vincent was a little out of character in some instances, so in terms of character portrayal, I'm not terribly proud of myself. Still, I like how the story is progressing. Better luck with the fourth story *pats own back*
----------
Okay, that's all I've gotta say for now. More to come... I hope.Fellow writer to fellow writer
So at my workplace, there was a child the age of 9. When I first met her, she was 7 and she wrote and drew her own picture book one fine day and surprised all my colleagues. I have not read it before and I wished that I would have the chance to.
Two years have passed since I first knew her and I met her again recently.
"Are you still writing?" I asked her.
To that, she shook her head and said that she has become too busy to write.
"But do you enjoy writing?" I probed. A large part of me prayed really hard that she still did and that she was not bogged down by the restrictions of Singapore's examinations.
"Yes, I love writing."
Phew! As long as her passion was still around, she should not give up. And that's what I told her, along with whatever advice I could scramble for her. Notebook of plot bunnies and ideas, writing just 30 minutes a day...
To her, it seemed like an adult telling a child what she thought would be best. Honestly, adult or not, we are all starting and running on the track of writing an awesome work. So when I was talking to her, I found myself talking to her like a fellow writer to a fellow writer. It was a nice feeling and I could not wait to see more people in my life who can step up and say "Let's share our experiences as writers!"
I also hope that this little girl will continue her desire to write.
In other news... I'm supposed to upload my new chapters. Hehe.
Two years have passed since I first knew her and I met her again recently.
"Are you still writing?" I asked her.
To that, she shook her head and said that she has become too busy to write.
"But do you enjoy writing?" I probed. A large part of me prayed really hard that she still did and that she was not bogged down by the restrictions of Singapore's examinations.
"Yes, I love writing."
Phew! As long as her passion was still around, she should not give up. And that's what I told her, along with whatever advice I could scramble for her. Notebook of plot bunnies and ideas, writing just 30 minutes a day...
To her, it seemed like an adult telling a child what she thought would be best. Honestly, adult or not, we are all starting and running on the track of writing an awesome work. So when I was talking to her, I found myself talking to her like a fellow writer to a fellow writer. It was a nice feeling and I could not wait to see more people in my life who can step up and say "Let's share our experiences as writers!"
I also hope that this little girl will continue her desire to write.
In other news... I'm supposed to upload my new chapters. Hehe.
Tuesday, August 4, 2015
Yes, everyone, I am alive.
Barely though.
I'm still working... and playing games whenever I'm not.
And now I'm tasked to write a script, but I am having such bad mental block.
For my fanfiction, on average I'm writing 200 words a day. So you can imagine how slowly "The Only Exception" and "Can I Stay By Your Side?" is going.
Help me, oh mighty creative juice!
I'm still working... and playing games whenever I'm not.
And now I'm tasked to write a script, but I am having such bad mental block.
For my fanfiction, on average I'm writing 200 words a day. So you can imagine how slowly "The Only Exception" and "Can I Stay By Your Side?" is going.
Help me, oh mighty creative juice!
Monday, June 29, 2015
Publishing is not a distant dream anymore
Recently,
I’ve noticed that there was an increase in local publishers in Singapore. More
and more Singaporean authors are stepping out to write for the younger
audience. I think that is great, and it makes me excited knowing that the entry to the market is wider and that my little dream of being published someday might actually
come true.
So for the
last two weeks, when I am not reading or writing fanfiction, I think about original stories. I am tempted to rewrite my older stories. I had old
plot bunnies that were unfinished, but I am not sure if that was the direction
that I wanted to go along.
A part of
me is afraid. Afraid of what the real editors and publishers might think of my
stories if I show them what I had done before. I am going to be honest here – I
think that my stories have some kind of standard. Sure, it’s not J.K Rowling
nor Neil Gaiman, but I enjoyed reading my stories. What if that had just been
my rosy picture? What if the editors didn’t like it, and that was the best that
I could do?
The thought
of that cripples me sometimes. Sometimes, I wonder if the one thing that I
thought I can do decently is not quite my calling or talent.
Alas, fear never
pushes the man forward.
Friday, June 19, 2015
Throne of Glass and rants
No, I'm not writing to complain about Throne of Glass. I've mentioned in my review that I absolutely adore the book. Yes, the reviews were spiralling in their dislike for Celaena Sardothien. I noticed and see where they were coming from. Yeah, Celaena was bordering on being an annoying Mary-Sue. But I love her, there's nothing I can do about that.
I reread Throne of Glass and over the next three days, sped through the two books thereafter, "Crown of Midnight" and "Heir of Fire"... until the last 150 pages of "Heir of Fire". I was apprehensive how the ending would be. I mean, at the last 150 pages, the story was not picking itself up yet.
Also, I was not ready for the story to really end. Readers of the series would know that the story turned for the darker in the middle of "Crown of Midnight" and I was afraid that the story would not end up the way I wanted. My hopes were dashed by quite a number of books (and manga) before... I certainly hoped that "Throne of Glass" would not join them. So I left the book there for another day or two... until I finally told myself to finish it or else I may forget the story altogether.
Then I realised. There will be a fourth book.
To be honest, the first reaction was "What nonsense!"
I was all prepared for an ending to find that the book was not at its end. I wish that there would be some indication as to whether the book has ended or not.
Then in hindsight, "Phew! Thank goodness she didn't wrap up the entire ending in a measly 50 pages!" That kind of ending would have sucked. Big time.
Back to my rant, that's the problem with series. It's difficult to know which book to read first. The authors publish books as though readers will always pick them up the minute they hit the racks. How are readers going to find out which book came first and how would readers know whether the books is really the last book? 'Cause I truly believed that "Heir of Fire" was the last book in the series. Can you imagine if I threw all twenty-two "Legend of Drizzt" books at you for you to figure out the order?
Actually, I wouldn't be so upset if not for the fact that the last book of "Throne of Glass" would only be available on the 1st of September. Golly, and how long would that be before the book comes to Singapore?
Patience, patience.
I'm awaiting "Queen of Darkness" very eagerly now.
And as a side note, fangirling over Chaol Westfall so hard that I almost sacrificed my free time to reread "Crown of Midnight". Almost.
I reread Throne of Glass and over the next three days, sped through the two books thereafter, "Crown of Midnight" and "Heir of Fire"... until the last 150 pages of "Heir of Fire". I was apprehensive how the ending would be. I mean, at the last 150 pages, the story was not picking itself up yet.
Also, I was not ready for the story to really end. Readers of the series would know that the story turned for the darker in the middle of "Crown of Midnight" and I was afraid that the story would not end up the way I wanted. My hopes were dashed by quite a number of books (and manga) before... I certainly hoped that "Throne of Glass" would not join them. So I left the book there for another day or two... until I finally told myself to finish it or else I may forget the story altogether.
Then I realised. There will be a fourth book.
To be honest, the first reaction was "What nonsense!"
I was all prepared for an ending to find that the book was not at its end. I wish that there would be some indication as to whether the book has ended or not.
Then in hindsight, "Phew! Thank goodness she didn't wrap up the entire ending in a measly 50 pages!" That kind of ending would have sucked. Big time.
Back to my rant, that's the problem with series. It's difficult to know which book to read first. The authors publish books as though readers will always pick them up the minute they hit the racks. How are readers going to find out which book came first and how would readers know whether the books is really the last book? 'Cause I truly believed that "Heir of Fire" was the last book in the series. Can you imagine if I threw all twenty-two "Legend of Drizzt" books at you for you to figure out the order?
Actually, I wouldn't be so upset if not for the fact that the last book of "Throne of Glass" would only be available on the 1st of September. Golly, and how long would that be before the book comes to Singapore?
Patience, patience.
I'm awaiting "Queen of Darkness" very eagerly now.
And as a side note, fangirling over Chaol Westfall so hard that I almost sacrificed my free time to reread "Crown of Midnight". Almost.
Monday, June 15, 2015
Book Review (11): Stitching Snow
Hello, I'm back with another review. This was an impulsive buy. I had no clue what story it was. I just liked the cover of the book. After I bought the book, I read reviews and I was afraid that I would be disappointed.
It's funny that I read books that I've just bought instead of reading books that have been in my shelf for years unread.
Stitching Snow
R.C. Lewis
Synopsis (in my own words): Essie was stuck in a snowy planet and she's a tinkerer, fixing robots and stuff. One day, this beautiful man crashed into her place on a space shuttle. She wanted to help him and thus got herself pulled into her past.
Reviews on Goodread were less than stellar. The book is a retelling of "Snow White and the Seven Dwarves", set in a futuristic world where people travel between planets. Let's see what I think.
1.
Firstly, Kudos to the author. Everyone said that it's boring and reused, I did not notice that the story was an adaptation. Maybe I was a little dumb in that, usually I spot references really quickly, but it was not until the last third of the book that I suddenly went, "Oh! Why did I not see that her seven drones were the seven dwarves?"
I'm an idiot.
I did not think that it was such a bad thing. The retelling was not obvious, in my opinion. Reused ideas? Come on, people, storytellers have been retelling stories for centuries. Get over that. I always like originality, but in this age, originality is hard to come by.
2. Setting
The setting was interesting. Maybe it was because I don't read sci-fi, but I liked the different environments of the planets.
Now, the things that I didn't like:
3. Characters
This was supposed to be a strength, but as I wrote, I realised that I didn't like it much anymore. So I have turned this into something that I didn't like.
The protagonist Essie is quite a strong-willed, feisty character. She had learnt to survive on her own in the icy tundras for many years. However, that's kind of what all the female protagonists are like nowadays. What happened to sweet, demure girls? I guess they never become protagonists. Maybe I should look for a book with a demure girl.
Back to Essie, the author did toughen her up, but I think she could have been just a tinge bit more crude. In terms of her character, I find her personality pretty generic and would not have thought of her as an interesting character. It was the same for her seven drones.
However, the character Dane was a strong complement to Essie. He was sweet and humorous. Even when he did things that I cannot say (because that would spoil the story), I never disliked him. I kept rooting for him and had my prediction on what Dane would turn out to be in the end. I was surprised with his development in the end.
4. Vocabulary
Rich, descriptive vocabulary EXCEPT for their verbs. Their spoken vocabulary was limited. It's always 'rigging' or 'botch' or something like that. It gets repetitive over 300 pages.
Verdict: Consider it
Pictures taken from:
Cover page
It's funny that I read books that I've just bought instead of reading books that have been in my shelf for years unread.
Stitching Snow
R.C. Lewis
Synopsis (in my own words): Essie was stuck in a snowy planet and she's a tinkerer, fixing robots and stuff. One day, this beautiful man crashed into her place on a space shuttle. She wanted to help him and thus got herself pulled into her past.
Reviews on Goodread were less than stellar. The book is a retelling of "Snow White and the Seven Dwarves", set in a futuristic world where people travel between planets. Let's see what I think.
1.
Firstly, Kudos to the author. Everyone said that it's boring and reused, I did not notice that the story was an adaptation. Maybe I was a little dumb in that, usually I spot references really quickly, but it was not until the last third of the book that I suddenly went, "Oh! Why did I not see that her seven drones were the seven dwarves?"
I'm an idiot.
I did not think that it was such a bad thing. The retelling was not obvious, in my opinion. Reused ideas? Come on, people, storytellers have been retelling stories for centuries. Get over that. I always like originality, but in this age, originality is hard to come by.
2. Setting
The setting was interesting. Maybe it was because I don't read sci-fi, but I liked the different environments of the planets.
Now, the things that I didn't like:
3. Characters
This was supposed to be a strength, but as I wrote, I realised that I didn't like it much anymore. So I have turned this into something that I didn't like.
The protagonist Essie is quite a strong-willed, feisty character. She had learnt to survive on her own in the icy tundras for many years. However, that's kind of what all the female protagonists are like nowadays. What happened to sweet, demure girls? I guess they never become protagonists. Maybe I should look for a book with a demure girl.
Back to Essie, the author did toughen her up, but I think she could have been just a tinge bit more crude. In terms of her character, I find her personality pretty generic and would not have thought of her as an interesting character. It was the same for her seven drones.
However, the character Dane was a strong complement to Essie. He was sweet and humorous. Even when he did things that I cannot say (because that would spoil the story), I never disliked him. I kept rooting for him and had my prediction on what Dane would turn out to be in the end. I was surprised with his development in the end.
4. Vocabulary
Rich, descriptive vocabulary EXCEPT for their verbs. Their spoken vocabulary was limited. It's always 'rigging' or 'botch' or something like that. It gets repetitive over 300 pages.
----------
Overall, it was a good read, I wouldn't reread it though. Not when I have many books to finish.Verdict: Consider it
Pictures taken from:
Cover page
Wednesday, June 10, 2015
Recent Updates
Whoa, it has been one month since.
I've been busy with work, and now that I'm more free, I ended up reading more novels, playing more games and watching more "Whose Line Is It Anyway?"
So much for commitment.
I've been having a mental block for the two stories that I'm working on, no doubt. I will get back to it... as soon as I can.
Meanwhile, I'll let you people know that I'm alive through this blog.
I've been busy with work, and now that I'm more free, I ended up reading more novels, playing more games and watching more "Whose Line Is It Anyway?"
So much for commitment.
I've been having a mental block for the two stories that I'm working on, no doubt. I will get back to it... as soon as I can.
Meanwhile, I'll let you people know that I'm alive through this blog.
Wednesday, May 6, 2015
The stash of incomplete books
I have a stash of incomplete books.
It all came to me when I was writing the review for Eragon that I can write a post about books that I've started but never completed. So here we are. You are most welcome to create your own list of incomplete books.
What attributes to incomplete books?
They need to be books that you've started to read, but you've stopped halfway for whatever reasons. Reading the first page doesn't cut it. You kinda need to get into it for a chapter or two, at least.
Maybe I should create a list of books that I've yet to read, like a book wishlist.
So here is my stash of incomplete books:
1. Anna and Mister God
It was a book that I've bought back in the early 2000s. It is a story about a big man finding a small girl and their unlikely friendship between. Something like that. I have never read long enough to find out.
2. Anne of Green Gables
Honest to truth, I tried SO hard to read this book, but I guess I'm bad with classics. I'm not classy enough. *slumps* In fact, there are many classics in my bookshelf, but I've barely read any. I feel horrible for "Anne of Green Gables" because I actually went ahead to buy the 8 books in the series. Now, the other 7 books are sitting in my bookshelf, unopened.
That was probably the beginning of my horrible "Buy them all first then decide" spending lifestyle (only for books). Thank goodness I've shaken that mentality off. Nowadays even if it's a series or a saga, I only buy the first book until I'm sure that I'll read the second book. I did that for the Eon Duology (review here!), Fire and Thorns (review here!) Touch of Magic by Maria V. Snyder, The Saga of Darren Shan and Artemis Fowl. It has saved me plenty a penny.
3. Lord of the Rings
It's not easy to see why I dislike it, seeing that Lord of the Rings was THE fantasy fiction of all time. Movies are awesome, they say. However, people who have read the book would understand. The pace of the story is too slow, with endless of poems and ballads and description. I've made it to "The Two Towers" and I'm pretty proud of that.
Also, it's just me but I'm not a big fan of non-human races. I like fantasy stories but I feel nothing for dwarves and gnomes and elves. It's okay if the humans have powers and I'm fine with talking animals, but to see talking creatures that I cannot identify or relate to... Not my kind of thing, though not to say that I abhor them. Eragon had them, and I loved the book (still do!)
4. Fifty Shades of Grey
First of all, before I seriously considered reading the book, I've already spoiled myself by looking at the ending. I decided that by doing that, I would lose interest. Well, not true. In the end, I picked up the book and read the first two. It was quite a feat. You should know what I think of the book already.
My reason for reading Fifty in the first place was to see just how bad it was. Two books later, I had my answer so I simply stopped. There was no appeal in the book for me to finish it. Besides, I have already spoiled myself the ending.
5. Inkheart
It's a book that I wish I could read, but I dropped it because of the lack of time.
6. Divergent
This one too. Pity, the second movie is already out and I'm still at Chapter 7 of the first book.
7. The Book of a Thousand Days
Another impulsive buy. However, this time, I read it and I've finished it. Review for the book will be out... eventually.
8. Ice Hunt
To be fair, I'm still reading the book here and there. I'm almost done with the book. I really should get down to it to finish it.
Most of the books are bought when I was in my teens. Not that I was a terrible book picker, but I lost interest very quickly when school became busy. Nowadays, I curb my book-spending impulses by buying manga (which I definitely can finish in an hour) or children's books.
In other news, I've pulled out all my books and reorganised them. I'm happy that there is still space in my bookshelf.
So what are your stash of incomplete books?
It all came to me when I was writing the review for Eragon that I can write a post about books that I've started but never completed. So here we are. You are most welcome to create your own list of incomplete books.
What attributes to incomplete books?
They need to be books that you've started to read, but you've stopped halfway for whatever reasons. Reading the first page doesn't cut it. You kinda need to get into it for a chapter or two, at least.
Maybe I should create a list of books that I've yet to read, like a book wishlist.
So here is my stash of incomplete books:
1. Anna and Mister God
It was a book that I've bought back in the early 2000s. It is a story about a big man finding a small girl and their unlikely friendship between. Something like that. I have never read long enough to find out.
2. Anne of Green Gables
Honest to truth, I tried SO hard to read this book, but I guess I'm bad with classics. I'm not classy enough. *slumps* In fact, there are many classics in my bookshelf, but I've barely read any. I feel horrible for "Anne of Green Gables" because I actually went ahead to buy the 8 books in the series. Now, the other 7 books are sitting in my bookshelf, unopened.
That was probably the beginning of my horrible "Buy them all first then decide" spending lifestyle (only for books). Thank goodness I've shaken that mentality off. Nowadays even if it's a series or a saga, I only buy the first book until I'm sure that I'll read the second book. I did that for the Eon Duology (review here!), Fire and Thorns (review here!) Touch of Magic by Maria V. Snyder, The Saga of Darren Shan and Artemis Fowl. It has saved me plenty a penny.
3. Lord of the Rings
It's not easy to see why I dislike it, seeing that Lord of the Rings was THE fantasy fiction of all time. Movies are awesome, they say. However, people who have read the book would understand. The pace of the story is too slow, with endless of poems and ballads and description. I've made it to "The Two Towers" and I'm pretty proud of that.
Also, it's just me but I'm not a big fan of non-human races. I like fantasy stories but I feel nothing for dwarves and gnomes and elves. It's okay if the humans have powers and I'm fine with talking animals, but to see talking creatures that I cannot identify or relate to... Not my kind of thing, though not to say that I abhor them. Eragon had them, and I loved the book (still do!)
4. Fifty Shades of Grey
First of all, before I seriously considered reading the book, I've already spoiled myself by looking at the ending. I decided that by doing that, I would lose interest. Well, not true. In the end, I picked up the book and read the first two. It was quite a feat. You should know what I think of the book already.
My reason for reading Fifty in the first place was to see just how bad it was. Two books later, I had my answer so I simply stopped. There was no appeal in the book for me to finish it. Besides, I have already spoiled myself the ending.
5. Inkheart
It's a book that I wish I could read, but I dropped it because of the lack of time.
6. Divergent
This one too. Pity, the second movie is already out and I'm still at Chapter 7 of the first book.
7. The Book of a Thousand Days
Another impulsive buy. However, this time, I read it and I've finished it. Review for the book will be out... eventually.
8. Ice Hunt
To be fair, I'm still reading the book here and there. I'm almost done with the book. I really should get down to it to finish it.
Most of the books are bought when I was in my teens. Not that I was a terrible book picker, but I lost interest very quickly when school became busy. Nowadays, I curb my book-spending impulses by buying manga (which I definitely can finish in an hour) or children's books.
In other news, I've pulled out all my books and reorganised them. I'm happy that there is still space in my bookshelf.
So what are your stash of incomplete books?
Monday, April 20, 2015
Book Review (10): The Legend of Drizzt (The Dark Elf Trilogy)
Nice. I've managed to hit 10 book reviews. I kinda thought that my diligence would fizzle after a while. But 10 book reviews, yo? Baby steps, people... baby steps.
Another review that ought to be posted a long time ago, though not as long as Eragon. I think I read this in 2013. Let's get this started!
Once again, I've proven that even when I'm displaying pictures of trilogies. They have to be from the same publisher. That's why the third book does not look as sharp as the first two... I went to other websites to find the third book cover. Yes, have you forgotten my idiosyncrasies?
The Legend of Drizzt (The Dark Elf Trilogy)
R.A. Salvatore
Sypnosis (in my own words): Dark elves are considered the race of the most evil. In the midst of them, a dark elf was born... with a different conscience. Watch how he struggles between what he feels is the right thing and what his society and culture wants him to believe is the right thing.
In case you don't know, this whole series is based on the game Dungeons and Dragons. Well, one part of it. I find that pretty fascinating. It's as close to getting fanfiction officially published as you can get. Well, I shouldn't be surprised anymore. More fanfiction are getting published as we know it. I may say it this way, but I only know of two. The famous one being Fifty Shades of Grey and the other one being "My Disjointed Life", which I've not read but will leave the link here so that you can have a look.
Apparently, if I'm not wrong, the original series is Book 4, 5 and 6. (Star Wars, anybody?) The trilogy that I've read was Book 1, 2 and 3. After Book 6, there are approximately another 20 books. I kid you not. Ask Wikipedia.
Well now, that's seriously - too many books.
Let's get on with the positives and negatives.
1. Firstly, setting.
The beginning of the book kind of confused me, but not in the way that is confusing to the story. It took me a while to understand how the world was like. Basically... I give a rough image of the place and I continued.
R.A. Salvatore took time to explain the concept of dark elves and the world around them. Basically, dark elves are in a system of morals and values completely different from us. I appreciate that the explaination was done in detail. Yet, he explained it so simply that I did not need to do a double take to think again.
2. That moral story again.
The story describes Drizzt's struggle to find balance in his morals. When I was reading this, I found the moral struggles that it described very apt because that was the struggle that Meia felt in "I Want To Be A Turk!" This grey area of morality is a very common and highly sought after theme in young adult books, I guess?
Do I like that? Yeah, I do! But I had my reservations in the middle of the story.
3.Character
Drizzt was a wonderful character. He was handsome. He was talented. He fights beautifully. He had a conscience that a drow/dark elf would never have. He was caring (which is not desired in his world). And many, many, many more.
That was the problem. He's too philosophical. Too perfect, if I dare say. There were basically no flaws about him. *gasp* Gary Stu alert! Yeah, I admit. That was a littttttle annoying. If I can pinpoint a flaw in Drizzt, probably that he's too emo. That man... er... elf... needs to lighten up!
How about the other characters? Umm... I can't remember. Sorry.
4. Action..
Yup, this story has good action and a fair bit of fighting. I'm a bit on the fence for this. It's all about whether you like it fast-paced or complicated. I like the description and pace of the fights. I could imagine how the moves were executed, which is something I usually gloss over in other books. Just to be fair, I started glossing over in the second and third books eventually.
If you are looking for battle flair and beauty, none. Fights in this book are straightforward, melee actions. That is, you hit until the enemy falls. If there's something that I would like to learn from, however, it would be the description of the fights.
5. Pace of the story
I read other reviews which said that the author wastes no time with his story. I agree with that. The pace of the story was just right. It gives enough information for context, yet moves fast enough to see action and plot. It's something I appreciate
6. Way too many books.
I've said it too many times, but I must say it again. There are too many books. Twenty? No way.
*insert "Ain't nobody got time for that" meme, because I'm too tired to find one for you*
I stopped after the third book, which is Soujourn. It's kinda sad because the real story is Book 4 to 6, the Icewind Dale Trilogy. However, I think I'm pretty done. The prequel was good enough and I'm satisfied already.
It's funny. Despite my many reservations, I enjoyed reading the series while it lasted. BUT I will definitely not need to reread it, neither will I pick up the rest of the 20 books. I say again, 3 has been good, I'm satisfied.
Pictures are taken from:
Homeland Cover
Exile Cover
Sojourn Cover
The lineup of books
Disclaimer: Despite the official term, the above book review is not a wholesome and fully critical one. The book is merely reviewed and reflected on based on story writing skills and other literary elements.
Another review that ought to be posted a long time ago, though not as long as Eragon. I think I read this in 2013. Let's get this started!
Once again, I've proven that even when I'm displaying pictures of trilogies. They have to be from the same publisher. That's why the third book does not look as sharp as the first two... I went to other websites to find the third book cover. Yes, have you forgotten my idiosyncrasies?
The Legend of Drizzt (The Dark Elf Trilogy)
R.A. Salvatore
Sypnosis (in my own words): Dark elves are considered the race of the most evil. In the midst of them, a dark elf was born... with a different conscience. Watch how he struggles between what he feels is the right thing and what his society and culture wants him to believe is the right thing.
-------
In case you don't know, this whole series is based on the game Dungeons and Dragons. Well, one part of it. I find that pretty fascinating. It's as close to getting fanfiction officially published as you can get. Well, I shouldn't be surprised anymore. More fanfiction are getting published as we know it. I may say it this way, but I only know of two. The famous one being Fifty Shades of Grey and the other one being "My Disjointed Life", which I've not read but will leave the link here so that you can have a look.
Apparently, if I'm not wrong, the original series is Book 4, 5 and 6. (Star Wars, anybody?) The trilogy that I've read was Book 1, 2 and 3. After Book 6, there are approximately another 20 books. I kid you not. Ask Wikipedia.
Well now, that's seriously - too many books.
Let's get on with the positives and negatives.
1. Firstly, setting.
The beginning of the book kind of confused me, but not in the way that is confusing to the story. It took me a while to understand how the world was like. Basically... I give a rough image of the place and I continued.
R.A. Salvatore took time to explain the concept of dark elves and the world around them. Basically, dark elves are in a system of morals and values completely different from us. I appreciate that the explaination was done in detail. Yet, he explained it so simply that I did not need to do a double take to think again.
2. That moral story again.
The story describes Drizzt's struggle to find balance in his morals. When I was reading this, I found the moral struggles that it described very apt because that was the struggle that Meia felt in "I Want To Be A Turk!" This grey area of morality is a very common and highly sought after theme in young adult books, I guess?
Do I like that? Yeah, I do! But I had my reservations in the middle of the story.
3.Character
Drizzt was a wonderful character. He was handsome. He was talented. He fights beautifully. He had a conscience that a drow/dark elf would never have. He was caring (which is not desired in his world). And many, many, many more.
That was the problem. He's too philosophical. Too perfect, if I dare say. There were basically no flaws about him. *gasp* Gary Stu alert! Yeah, I admit. That was a littttttle annoying. If I can pinpoint a flaw in Drizzt, probably that he's too emo. That man... er... elf... needs to lighten up!
How about the other characters? Umm... I can't remember. Sorry.
4. Action..
Yup, this story has good action and a fair bit of fighting. I'm a bit on the fence for this. It's all about whether you like it fast-paced or complicated. I like the description and pace of the fights. I could imagine how the moves were executed, which is something I usually gloss over in other books. Just to be fair, I started glossing over in the second and third books eventually.
If you are looking for battle flair and beauty, none. Fights in this book are straightforward, melee actions. That is, you hit until the enemy falls. If there's something that I would like to learn from, however, it would be the description of the fights.
5. Pace of the story
I read other reviews which said that the author wastes no time with his story. I agree with that. The pace of the story was just right. It gives enough information for context, yet moves fast enough to see action and plot. It's something I appreciate
6. Way too many books.
I've said it too many times, but I must say it again. There are too many books. Twenty? No way.
*insert "Ain't nobody got time for that" meme, because I'm too tired to find one for you*
I stopped after the third book, which is Soujourn. It's kinda sad because the real story is Book 4 to 6, the Icewind Dale Trilogy. However, I think I'm pretty done. The prequel was good enough and I'm satisfied already.
-------
Rating: Love it.Pictures are taken from:
Homeland Cover
Exile Cover
Sojourn Cover
The lineup of books
Disclaimer: Despite the official term, the above book review is not a wholesome and fully critical one. The book is merely reviewed and reflected on based on story writing skills and other literary elements.
Wednesday, April 8, 2015
Being A Leader
On the 23rd of March, the first prime minister of Singapore, Mr Lee Kuan Yew, passed away.
I have many thoughts in my head, but you know, we do what the ancients do... There's always time to put it into a poem, so why not?
Being A Leader
Being a leader brings glory.
Everywhere you go, people see you,
When you die, people tell your story.
Being a leader means power.
But the anxiety and burden outweigh the benefits,
There're days when you want to cry and cower.
Being a leader needs to be daring
The greatest historymakers are all radical in their thinking.
I imagine you up on stage, enthusiatic and raring.
Being a leader requires a strong will.
As you once said, "must have that iron in him",
Without it, would we be what we are still?
Being a leader is lonely.
Times get difficult and people blame you for it,
After all, people gather in good times only.
Being a leader will always be a special calling,
And a leader does what he needs to do, at all costs,
To keep us strong, keep us from falling.
Thank you to all the leaders out there who suffered in silence for the betterment of society.
I have many thoughts in my head, but you know, we do what the ancients do... There's always time to put it into a poem, so why not?
Being A Leader
Being a leader brings glory.
Everywhere you go, people see you,
When you die, people tell your story.
Being a leader means power.
But the anxiety and burden outweigh the benefits,
There're days when you want to cry and cower.
Being a leader needs to be daring
The greatest historymakers are all radical in their thinking.
I imagine you up on stage, enthusiatic and raring.
Being a leader requires a strong will.
As you once said, "must have that iron in him",
Without it, would we be what we are still?
Being a leader is lonely.
Times get difficult and people blame you for it,
After all, people gather in good times only.
Being a leader will always be a special calling,
And a leader does what he needs to do, at all costs,
To keep us strong, keep us from falling.
Thank you to all the leaders out there who suffered in silence for the betterment of society.
Monday, March 30, 2015
Manga vs Anime: What's the difference? (Part Two)
A while back, I've mentioned about the differences between manga and anime. Check it out here, if you don't already know.
Today's post will be on the bigger question: Which medium is better?
Here's the short, simple and straightforward answer: It depends on your taste. Try out both mediums and work out which suits your taste better.
If you are happy with that answer, you can turn back and scoot off into the Netiverse. For those who are still hanging around, here's the long and draggy version:
So shall I read manga? Or watch anime instead? I will first begin by pitching for manga. My personal view is that manga is always the better alternative. I know that everyone loves anime and talks about anime. I used to feel quite annoyed in secondary school, when my friends talked about the events in the anime and all I did was read manga.
I think there is a good reason why people don't like reading manga. The very obvious reason would be that it was pretty expensive to read the tankobon volumes when you can get the free versions online *ahem* please support the originals as far as possible *ahem* Another reason would be that they don't like to read. They would rather sit back and let the animators fill in the details instead of their imagination.
Then, I've got friends who say that anime is drawn better than the manga. Of which, I gotta say "NO WAY!" Am I the only one who thinks that manga are drawn better? Yes, initially when the manga is first published, especially for new mangaka, the characters do look awkward and (may I dare say) disproportionate sometimes. So when the anime was produced, everyone grabs on to their besties and squeal "Awesome graphics!"
However, the beautiful thing about manga is that the mangaka grows and improves. It's very obvious especially for multi-chapter mangaka. We can talk about One Piece, or Naruto, or any other manga. There is a stark improvement from the first chapter to the last chapter. That change is so subtle. It's amazing to read and suddenly realise that the mangaka has been improving his drawing. That feel is something that anime can't exactly portray.
Allow me to show you:
Naruto right after the timeskip
Naruto right before the end. I love the expressions that he made towards the end of the story. Props to Kishimoto for capturing those looks. (Picture has been cropped to prevent spoilers)
Here's another one. Look at Onime No Kyo at Chapter 1. Look at that disproportionate body!!
And then Kamijyo Akimine had such a big improvement... Well, I couldn't find a good image with Kyo's full body so here's a wallpaper that is just as good :)
Besides, manga is usually the original, I would say. So, why go around viewing secondhand information (i.e. anime) when you can get it straight from the creator (i.e the manga?) No offence.
Another reason why I would not go for animes. Endings. As mentioned, the original storyline comes from the manga. So if the anime ends before the manga... obviously the ending ain't canon. In the past, the anime would go for a completely different ending, which in my opinion, ALWAYS makes things worse. I'm STILL looking at you, Samurai Deeper Kyo! How could you humiliate the manga like that! You had an ending that was so absurd that I just- can't-
*ahem* Anyway, anime nowadays tend to go this method of ending like 'we-have-a-long-road-ahead-of-us-but-we-will-conquer-them-all'. Yeah, I'm not a big fan of that. I want closure. Obviously, I can't get closure because the manga is not stopping. Oh well...
To be fair, I have some titles where I prefer the anime titles more than the manga. Two titles off the top of my head. Gintama and Gekkan Shoujo Nozaki-kun. They have shown amazing work with their anime. I love Nozaki-kun, the manga, but when I watched the anime, I appreciated how the team tries to fill in the small details that are lacking in the manga. (Gekkan Shoujo Nozaki-kun is a 4-koma manga.) As for Gintama, I dare say that I enjoy the anime more than the manga, even though in terms of timeline, everything's different.
To take the fairness to another level, the production team for anime has been doing a great job. Anime nowadays are done really well. I don't really complain about their art or animation, not like before. Series like Magi and Ao No Exorcist had such lovely illustrations that after the series ended (horribly), I immediately went out to get the manga. Their vague endings (the ones that I said that I wasn't a fan of) were the reasons why I eventually got the manga.
Alright, let's get down to the real thing. Suppose you are new to this whole manga/anime thing. You have been hearing about a particular title and you're not sure if you should start with manga or anime. Do you need help in deciding? Truthfully, it's what I've prescribed at the beginning of the post. Go give both medias a chance, but anyway, on top of that, you may consider these questions:
1. Is the title available in other forms of media?
You know, there is an idea that there probably is an anime for any manga title out there, or vice versa. That may, or may not be true. Though I can safely say, all mainstream titles have both the manga and anime option. I mean, the reason why it became mainstream was probably because of the anime, I won't deny. Still, do check it out first.
2. Do you like to read?
Readers tend to favour manga. Movie buffs would rather see it animated. Ain't rocket science, honey.
3. Do you read/watch on the go?
Well, I'm not supporting any piracy over here. Ignoring the option of piracy, do consider whether you enjoy reading/watching on the go or at home? For me, I read manga or books wherever I am. But when I'm on the go, I tend to read more than I watch. When I'm at home, I don't mind watching videos and stuff, even though I ultimately favour a book/manga more. Hehe.
Gee, I seriously hope that I wasn't boring you with all these. But if you have not read manga or watched anime, do give it a try. The world of Japanese authors is so profound and unique. They tell stories in ways that I don't see in English writers.
Anyway, I'm finally done with this post. I had it as a draft for the longest time. Hehe.
Pictures taken by:
Naruto after timeskip
Naruto at the end
Samurai Deeper Kyo Chapter 1
Samurai Deeper Kyo wallpaper
Today's post will be on the bigger question: Which medium is better?
Here's the short, simple and straightforward answer: It depends on your taste. Try out both mediums and work out which suits your taste better.
If you are happy with that answer, you can turn back and scoot off into the Netiverse. For those who are still hanging around, here's the long and draggy version:
-----
So shall I read manga? Or watch anime instead? I will first begin by pitching for manga. My personal view is that manga is always the better alternative. I know that everyone loves anime and talks about anime. I used to feel quite annoyed in secondary school, when my friends talked about the events in the anime and all I did was read manga.
I think there is a good reason why people don't like reading manga. The very obvious reason would be that it was pretty expensive to read the tankobon volumes when you can get the free versions online *ahem* please support the originals as far as possible *ahem* Another reason would be that they don't like to read. They would rather sit back and let the animators fill in the details instead of their imagination.
Then, I've got friends who say that anime is drawn better than the manga. Of which, I gotta say "NO WAY!" Am I the only one who thinks that manga are drawn better? Yes, initially when the manga is first published, especially for new mangaka, the characters do look awkward and (may I dare say) disproportionate sometimes. So when the anime was produced, everyone grabs on to their besties and squeal "Awesome graphics!"
However, the beautiful thing about manga is that the mangaka grows and improves. It's very obvious especially for multi-chapter mangaka. We can talk about One Piece, or Naruto, or any other manga. There is a stark improvement from the first chapter to the last chapter. That change is so subtle. It's amazing to read and suddenly realise that the mangaka has been improving his drawing. That feel is something that anime can't exactly portray.
Allow me to show you:
Naruto right after the timeskip
Naruto right before the end. I love the expressions that he made towards the end of the story. Props to Kishimoto for capturing those looks. (Picture has been cropped to prevent spoilers)
Here's another one. Look at Onime No Kyo at Chapter 1. Look at that disproportionate body!!
And then Kamijyo Akimine had such a big improvement... Well, I couldn't find a good image with Kyo's full body so here's a wallpaper that is just as good :)
Besides, manga is usually the original, I would say. So, why go around viewing secondhand information (i.e. anime) when you can get it straight from the creator (i.e the manga?) No offence.
Another reason why I would not go for animes. Endings. As mentioned, the original storyline comes from the manga. So if the anime ends before the manga... obviously the ending ain't canon. In the past, the anime would go for a completely different ending, which in my opinion, ALWAYS makes things worse. I'm STILL looking at you, Samurai Deeper Kyo! How could you humiliate the manga like that! You had an ending that was so absurd that I just- can't-
*ahem* Anyway, anime nowadays tend to go this method of ending like 'we-have-a-long-road-ahead-of-us-but-we-will-conquer-them-all'. Yeah, I'm not a big fan of that. I want closure. Obviously, I can't get closure because the manga is not stopping. Oh well...
To be fair, I have some titles where I prefer the anime titles more than the manga. Two titles off the top of my head. Gintama and Gekkan Shoujo Nozaki-kun. They have shown amazing work with their anime. I love Nozaki-kun, the manga, but when I watched the anime, I appreciated how the team tries to fill in the small details that are lacking in the manga. (Gekkan Shoujo Nozaki-kun is a 4-koma manga.) As for Gintama, I dare say that I enjoy the anime more than the manga, even though in terms of timeline, everything's different.
To take the fairness to another level, the production team for anime has been doing a great job. Anime nowadays are done really well. I don't really complain about their art or animation, not like before. Series like Magi and Ao No Exorcist had such lovely illustrations that after the series ended (horribly), I immediately went out to get the manga. Their vague endings (the ones that I said that I wasn't a fan of) were the reasons why I eventually got the manga.
-----
Alright, let's get down to the real thing. Suppose you are new to this whole manga/anime thing. You have been hearing about a particular title and you're not sure if you should start with manga or anime. Do you need help in deciding? Truthfully, it's what I've prescribed at the beginning of the post. Go give both medias a chance, but anyway, on top of that, you may consider these questions:
1. Is the title available in other forms of media?
You know, there is an idea that there probably is an anime for any manga title out there, or vice versa. That may, or may not be true. Though I can safely say, all mainstream titles have both the manga and anime option. I mean, the reason why it became mainstream was probably because of the anime, I won't deny. Still, do check it out first.
2. Do you like to read?
Readers tend to favour manga. Movie buffs would rather see it animated. Ain't rocket science, honey.
3. Do you read/watch on the go?
Well, I'm not supporting any piracy over here. Ignoring the option of piracy, do consider whether you enjoy reading/watching on the go or at home? For me, I read manga or books wherever I am. But when I'm on the go, I tend to read more than I watch. When I'm at home, I don't mind watching videos and stuff, even though I ultimately favour a book/manga more. Hehe.
Gee, I seriously hope that I wasn't boring you with all these. But if you have not read manga or watched anime, do give it a try. The world of Japanese authors is so profound and unique. They tell stories in ways that I don't see in English writers.
Anyway, I'm finally done with this post. I had it as a draft for the longest time. Hehe.
Pictures taken by:
Naruto after timeskip
Naruto at the end
Samurai Deeper Kyo Chapter 1
Samurai Deeper Kyo wallpaper
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
More surrendering...
And then, to follow up on my previous post, more reviews came in.
From the same person.
In fact, this person made sure to review every chapter that I wrote, even though she was reading from Chapter 1 to 5 in one go.
I've not seen such a reviewer in such a long time.
You had no idea how happy she made me last Thursday, when I first received her review (and the subsequent 4 reviews after).
I don't think I'm the only one in this. Readers, please encourage your fanfic writers. They are all putting in their best, regardless of the quality of the stories.
From the same person.
In fact, this person made sure to review every chapter that I wrote, even though she was reading from Chapter 1 to 5 in one go.
I've not seen such a reviewer in such a long time.
You had no idea how happy she made me last Thursday, when I first received her review (and the subsequent 4 reviews after).
I don't think I'm the only one in this. Readers, please encourage your fanfic writers. They are all putting in their best, regardless of the quality of the stories.
Monday, March 9, 2015
I surrender.
Is it just me, or has the culture of readers online become one that are silent and supportive with their likes and follows?
Don't get me wrong, I love them equally. But today, I received my first review in a very, very long time. I don't think I've smiled so happily, or felt so satisfied with my work with that one review.
So I give up. I have to admit to myself that even though I love it when people favourite and follow my stories, it is the reviews that make my day extra special.
Don't get me wrong, I love them equally. But today, I received my first review in a very, very long time. I don't think I've smiled so happily, or felt so satisfied with my work with that one review.
So I give up. I have to admit to myself that even though I love it when people favourite and follow my stories, it is the reviews that make my day extra special.
Monday, February 23, 2015
DEM. FEELS.
Although I call myself an otaku, technically speaking I can't be one. That's because I've not actually played/read/watched enough video games/manga/anime to consider myself one. But the fact that I'm so obsessed with them all kinda concludes that I'm one, but that's besides the point.
Initially, the idea of this post was to create a list of shows that you want to watch again "for the first time". That means I wanna watch it again with no memories of what had happened. The emotions and thoughts that go through my head whenever I read/watch some of these amazing titles... it'll be an experience to go through them again.
Then, I realise that if that is the criteria, I might as well change it to "Anime that are emotionally powerful." We are talking about titles that had an impact on my emotions, even minutes or hours after reading. These titles have moments that I know that if I reread the series again, the reaction and feeling will not be as strong as the first time, AND I feel sad because of that knowledge.
It's not that they are my favourite title and I have no more favourite titles. For many titles such as Magi (big love!) and Fairy Tail, after from that 'ooh, everyone is all nice and cosy' feeling, I had no extra wow-ness to it. The series is good, but it did not impact me like that.
So here goes the list! It is a pretty stringent list, if I do say so myself. Usually I like most titles, so I shall be a little more strict this time.
Yes, they are in order of merit:
1. One Piece
If everyone says that One Piece is overrated, I guess they are right in some way. However, the title is not world-famous for nothing. One Piece had me close to tears, especially at the beginning parts of the story. Oda Eiichiro, the mangaka, has this really wonderful way of building story and climax, foreshadowing and hinting. He is a natural storyteller. Anyway, back to the main point. The show grabs you in your feels.
Even watching their opening songs ("Bon Voyage" and "Fight Together") will make me cry.
Dear "Fight Together" opening video, I am talking about you.
2. Full Metal Alchemist
If I don't put this up on the list, fangirls and fanboys will hunt me down. This story is a classic but amazing example of morals and the search for "eternal life".
I admit. I did not cry at this scene, but when I first watched it, I remember that I went, "Oh my gosh... no way, no way, no way... I knew it!"
I would stop at these two, but if I have to add one more...
3. Kekkaishi
This title is horribly underrated. The battle system, characters and world that the author created was simple to understand but well-developed. Even the ending of the story was not exaggerated beyond imagination. I'm really tired of "We-need-help-or-the-world-and-outer-space-will-implode" crisis.
This title went in because I admire Yoshimori's determination to protect Tokine very, very much. I was very moved by his dedication. Everything that he worked for was for her. That's it. Throughout the whole story, I kept rooting for Yoshimori and hoping REAL hard that there might be something that will happen between the two of them. Also, there was the death of an important character which made me *almost* give up on the series... like how I did for Deathnote when L died. Good thing I did not give up on Kekkaishi... though I really really wished that that character did not die :(
It really is surprising that I don't have many - I expected more. I even looked through my manga database to double check... and I've just revealed that I'm a nerd.
It's pretty obvious that we can never relive these moments, so we go in search of other anime titles that can blow our minds like that. However, I'm pretty glad that there were titles and stories that have impacted me like that... One day, I want to impact people like that too.
Pictures taken from:
Fight Together screenshot
Nina and Alexander
Initially, the idea of this post was to create a list of shows that you want to watch again "for the first time". That means I wanna watch it again with no memories of what had happened. The emotions and thoughts that go through my head whenever I read/watch some of these amazing titles... it'll be an experience to go through them again.
Then, I realise that if that is the criteria, I might as well change it to "Anime that are emotionally powerful." We are talking about titles that had an impact on my emotions, even minutes or hours after reading. These titles have moments that I know that if I reread the series again, the reaction and feeling will not be as strong as the first time, AND I feel sad because of that knowledge.
It's not that they are my favourite title and I have no more favourite titles. For many titles such as Magi (big love!) and Fairy Tail, after from that 'ooh, everyone is all nice and cosy' feeling, I had no extra wow-ness to it. The series is good, but it did not impact me like that.
So here goes the list! It is a pretty stringent list, if I do say so myself. Usually I like most titles, so I shall be a little more strict this time.
Yes, they are in order of merit:
-----
1. One Piece
If everyone says that One Piece is overrated, I guess they are right in some way. However, the title is not world-famous for nothing. One Piece had me close to tears, especially at the beginning parts of the story. Oda Eiichiro, the mangaka, has this really wonderful way of building story and climax, foreshadowing and hinting. He is a natural storyteller. Anyway, back to the main point. The show grabs you in your feels.
Even watching their opening songs ("Bon Voyage" and "Fight Together") will make me cry.
Dear "Fight Together" opening video, I am talking about you.
2. Full Metal Alchemist
If I don't put this up on the list, fangirls and fanboys will hunt me down. This story is a classic but amazing example of morals and the search for "eternal life".
I admit. I did not cry at this scene, but when I first watched it, I remember that I went, "Oh my gosh... no way, no way, no way... I knew it!"
I would stop at these two, but if I have to add one more...
3. Kekkaishi
This title is horribly underrated. The battle system, characters and world that the author created was simple to understand but well-developed. Even the ending of the story was not exaggerated beyond imagination. I'm really tired of "We-need-help-or-the-world-and-outer-space-will-implode" crisis.
This title went in because I admire Yoshimori's determination to protect Tokine very, very much. I was very moved by his dedication. Everything that he worked for was for her. That's it. Throughout the whole story, I kept rooting for Yoshimori and hoping REAL hard that there might be something that will happen between the two of them. Also, there was the death of an important character which made me *almost* give up on the series... like how I did for Deathnote when L died. Good thing I did not give up on Kekkaishi... though I really really wished that that character did not die :(
-----
It really is surprising that I don't have many - I expected more. I even looked through my manga database to double check... and I've just revealed that I'm a nerd.
It's pretty obvious that we can never relive these moments, so we go in search of other anime titles that can blow our minds like that. However, I'm pretty glad that there were titles and stories that have impacted me like that... One day, I want to impact people like that too.
Pictures taken from:
Fight Together screenshot
Nina and Alexander
Sunday, February 15, 2015
Happy Valentine's Day!
Unfortunately, I'm not ready to upload another chapter of my stories, so I've decided that I should look up on some quotes on love that I kinda like.
"After all this time?"
"Always." - Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling
Love is like pi; natural, irrational and very important. - Lisa Hoffman
I carry your heart (I carry it in my heart) - E.E. Cummings
“Yelena, you've driven me crazy. You've caused me considerable trouble and I've contemplated ending your life twice since I've known you." Valek's warm breath in my ear sent a shiver down my spine. "But you’ve slipped under my skin, invaded my blood and seized my heart.”
“That sounds more like a poison than a person,” was all I could say. His confession had both shocked and thrilled me.
“Exactly,” Valek replied. “You have poisoned me.” - Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder
This is my favourite from the Bible.
For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. - Romans 8:38-29
I've tried to find love quotes for "Fifty Shades of Grey" but... I couldn't find them. Oh well. Not surprising.
And in the mood for something more narcisstic, I went ahead to find some of my love confessions in my fanfiction. I didn't find them all because I was lazy to type them out. So enjoy it!
Kyo threw the letter aside and held his lifeless wife tighter. "I won't ever forget you." - A Love That Surpasses Time (SDK)
Until fate decides otherwise, I'll be here watching her and ensuring that she is alright. Even here in the Farplane, I am watching over Yuna as her guardian and as one who loves her. - Guardian (FFX)
Once again, have a happy Valentine's day!
"After all this time?"
"Always." - Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling
Love is like pi; natural, irrational and very important. - Lisa Hoffman
I carry your heart (I carry it in my heart) - E.E. Cummings
“Yelena, you've driven me crazy. You've caused me considerable trouble and I've contemplated ending your life twice since I've known you." Valek's warm breath in my ear sent a shiver down my spine. "But you’ve slipped under my skin, invaded my blood and seized my heart.”
“That sounds more like a poison than a person,” was all I could say. His confession had both shocked and thrilled me.
“Exactly,” Valek replied. “You have poisoned me.” - Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder
This is my favourite from the Bible.
For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. - Romans 8:38-29
I've tried to find love quotes for "Fifty Shades of Grey" but... I couldn't find them. Oh well. Not surprising.
And in the mood for something more narcisstic, I went ahead to find some of my love confessions in my fanfiction. I didn't find them all because I was lazy to type them out. So enjoy it!
Kyo threw the letter aside and held his lifeless wife tighter. "I won't ever forget you." - A Love That Surpasses Time (SDK)
Until fate decides otherwise, I'll be here watching her and ensuring that she is alright. Even here in the Farplane, I am watching over Yuna as her guardian and as one who loves her. - Guardian (FFX)
“So…
Kayla is just lying, right?” Elena asked again. She had to be sure. “You and
Tseng don’t like me, right?”
Reno’s voice was soft. “Wrong.”
Elena felt her heart sink. Reno and Tseng likes her? Then what-
"Tseng doesn’t like you, Elena.” Reno’s hand smoothed out Elena’s mutilated hair with little success. “I do.” - Moves Like Jagger (FFVII)
Hehe, the last one was my all-time favourite actually.Reno’s voice was soft. “Wrong.”
Elena felt her heart sink. Reno and Tseng likes her? Then what-
"Tseng doesn’t like you, Elena.” Reno’s hand smoothed out Elena’s mutilated hair with little success. “I do.” - Moves Like Jagger (FFVII)
Once again, have a happy Valentine's day!
Monday, January 19, 2015
Book Review (9): Eragon - The Inheritance Cycle
Holy smokes!! (pun not intended) It's been wayyyyy too long since I last read this book, it's technically not supposed to be accurate. *gasp* The review below is meant to be done during Jan 2014, but I just wrote a few notes and I forgot all about it.
So, another 'new' review. I read the Inheritance Cycle in the last quarter of 2012 and I've put off the review till now. Yup. 2 whole years. That's pretty embarrassing.
History time! I first picked Eragon up in mid 2011, and I was hooked onto the book until I was half way through the book. I got a little bored of the travelling and for some reason, I could not pick it up anymore. I've watched the movie and was intrigued by the storyline but I just can't seem to get my book up. So Eragon joined Lord of the Rings in my stack of incomplete books... Until I reread in 2012. Since then, I finally got hooked onto it and from there, I finished the entire series.
Basically, I should've written the review when I was done. I'm kinda regretting this because I can barely remember the details. So I'm going to try to recall as much as I can. If I had all the time in the world, I don't mind rereading the book. Yes, it was such a wonderful story that I am quite looking forward to rereading it. Alas, the lack of time.
I will review the book as the whole series rather than just the standalone book.
Eragon - The Inheritance Cycle
Christopher Paolini
Story sypnosis (in my own words): ... I can't do it man. It's too long ago. You will need to search for the blurb somewhere else because I ain't stealing sypnoses from others. That's the least I can do.
-------
What can I say?
After finally reading through the series, I'm so so so glad that I made myself finish the book. It. Was. Awesome. Eragon became my favourite book of the year... Year 2012, that is. Till now, I doubt I've read any book that really topped that... Oh, maybe "The Legend of Drizzt", but for different reasons as you can see heree... oh what do you know? I have not done that review too. Typical.
1. Stunning visuals... I mean, description.
Eragon had such vivid detail in its description. Author Christopher Paolini mentioned that he drew inspiration by looking at mountains where he lived. Gee, I'm super jealous. He either has really breath-taking mountains to look at, or he has a really outstanding imagination. I love how the world that he paints is not biased towards a certain colour. As you read, you find that the world is very colourful, despite the oppression from the antagonist, Galbatorix.
With Eragon, sometimes it's super easy to visualise what the author was trying to say. Sometimes, not so, but I place that blame on myself more because I tend to speed read and not grab the details.
2. Motivated protagonist
I've decided to only talk about the description and characters because it has been a long time since I read Eragon. The characters in the story are at decently fleshed out, with backstories and characteristics that vary from character to character. They don't have a whole myriad of different personalities, but they are decent. Eragon, however, had enough character development, with a smattering of flaws to balance him nicely. I like that he has a few humbling experiences that made him better.
3. Only gripe: Lousy ending
If there is one thing that I hated in this series, it was the ending. When the author decided to make his trilogy a quadrology, I was ecstatic. But I was really hoping that the ending could have had more closure.
After reading Eragon, I quickly searched through the websites looking for information. Apparently, the author mentioned that he may have novellas and he stated something like Eragon and Arya having long lives. The end of the series was just the beginning for everyone.
Well. we'll see about that. Who knows if your fanbase will still be around when you actually get around to do it :(
EDIT (1st Feb 2015): How can I forget? This is one rare book that has no love triangles!!!
-------
Rating: LOVE IT.
It is with much regret and embarrassment that I am reviewing a book that I don't remember specific details. Nevertheless, the book left such an impression on me that I kept telling people to read it. It's a book that I'll definitely reread. In fact, this series is a series that I want to bring to my new house and keep, because it's that precious a title.
Seriously. Don't be fooled by the movie. Just... read the book. At least it's not as draggy as LOTR. Sorry LOTR... there is a reason why you are still in the stash of incomplete books.
So, another 'new' review. I read the Inheritance Cycle in the last quarter of 2012 and I've put off the review till now. Yup. 2 whole years. That's pretty embarrassing.
History time! I first picked Eragon up in mid 2011, and I was hooked onto the book until I was half way through the book. I got a little bored of the travelling and for some reason, I could not pick it up anymore. I've watched the movie and was intrigued by the storyline but I just can't seem to get my book up. So Eragon joined Lord of the Rings in my stack of incomplete books... Until I reread in 2012. Since then, I finally got hooked onto it and from there, I finished the entire series.
Basically, I should've written the review when I was done. I'm kinda regretting this because I can barely remember the details. So I'm going to try to recall as much as I can. If I had all the time in the world, I don't mind rereading the book. Yes, it was such a wonderful story that I am quite looking forward to rereading it. Alas, the lack of time.
I will review the book as the whole series rather than just the standalone book.
(picture taken from here)
(The line up of the series, starting from Eragon,
followed by Eldest, Brisingr and Inheritance.)
Eragon - The Inheritance Cycle
Christopher Paolini
Story sypnosis (in my own words): ... I can't do it man. It's too long ago. You will need to search for the blurb somewhere else because I ain't stealing sypnoses from others. That's the least I can do.
-------
What can I say?
After finally reading through the series, I'm so so so glad that I made myself finish the book. It. Was. Awesome. Eragon became my favourite book of the year... Year 2012, that is. Till now, I doubt I've read any book that really topped that... Oh, maybe "The Legend of Drizzt", but for different reasons as you can see heree... oh what do you know? I have not done that review too. Typical.
1. Stunning visuals... I mean, description.
Eragon had such vivid detail in its description. Author Christopher Paolini mentioned that he drew inspiration by looking at mountains where he lived. Gee, I'm super jealous. He either has really breath-taking mountains to look at, or he has a really outstanding imagination. I love how the world that he paints is not biased towards a certain colour. As you read, you find that the world is very colourful, despite the oppression from the antagonist, Galbatorix.
With Eragon, sometimes it's super easy to visualise what the author was trying to say. Sometimes, not so, but I place that blame on myself more because I tend to speed read and not grab the details.
2. Motivated protagonist
I've decided to only talk about the description and characters because it has been a long time since I read Eragon. The characters in the story are at decently fleshed out, with backstories and characteristics that vary from character to character. They don't have a whole myriad of different personalities, but they are decent. Eragon, however, had enough character development, with a smattering of flaws to balance him nicely. I like that he has a few humbling experiences that made him better.
3. Only gripe: Lousy ending
If there is one thing that I hated in this series, it was the ending. When the author decided to make his trilogy a quadrology, I was ecstatic. But I was really hoping that the ending could have had more closure.
After reading Eragon, I quickly searched through the websites looking for information. Apparently, the author mentioned that he may have novellas and he stated something like Eragon and Arya having long lives. The end of the series was just the beginning for everyone.
Well. we'll see about that. Who knows if your fanbase will still be around when you actually get around to do it :(
EDIT (1st Feb 2015): How can I forget? This is one rare book that has no love triangles!!!
-------
Rating: LOVE IT.
It is with much regret and embarrassment that I am reviewing a book that I don't remember specific details. Nevertheless, the book left such an impression on me that I kept telling people to read it. It's a book that I'll definitely reread. In fact, this series is a series that I want to bring to my new house and keep, because it's that precious a title.
Seriously. Don't be fooled by the movie. Just... read the book. At least it's not as draggy as LOTR. Sorry LOTR... there is a reason why you are still in the stash of incomplete books.
Monday, January 12, 2015
First post for 2015!
Happy New Year folks! Here is my first post for 2015. Here are some plans that I've come up with, with regards to writing.
1. Read lots of manga
Sadly, this one is here to stay. I know that I have been neglecting my writing because of this. But then again, I've neglected manga for almost 10 years for my other things in life. Therefore, I shall now focus back on my (technically) 'first love'.
2. Write fanfiction outside FF7
I thought it would be fun if I write other fandoms too. On top of FF7, I'm currently writing one that is from the Reborn fandom. If you like Katekyoshi Hitman Reborn, stay tuned!
3. Brainstorm on original YA fiction
'Nuff said. It's about time I get started on writing outside fanfiction. I may not write anything, but I want to start gathering ideas.
4. Create stories for children
I tell stories to children. Sometimes, I would create my own stories on the fly, as mentioned before. This year, I want to see if, apart from YA fiction, I can write stories for children too.
What have you been doing since the year started? For me, I'm back at work and trying to get my life organised. My table was in a mess and I've just finished clearing it out. I'm also reading manga, letting the chapters fly by by the hundreds.
Since yesterday, I've been reading "Days of Exile". I started at Chapter 29. I did not know that there were a few errors and typos per chapter. It's pretty embarrassing. But is it arrogant of me to say that I enjoy reading "Days of Exile"? I really like reading the chapters, it almost feels like it's not mine.
All the best to everyone in this new year. May you continue to enjoy reading and writing!
1. Read lots of manga
Sadly, this one is here to stay. I know that I have been neglecting my writing because of this. But then again, I've neglected manga for almost 10 years for my other things in life. Therefore, I shall now focus back on my (technically) 'first love'.
2. Write fanfiction outside FF7
I thought it would be fun if I write other fandoms too. On top of FF7, I'm currently writing one that is from the Reborn fandom. If you like Katekyoshi Hitman Reborn, stay tuned!
3. Brainstorm on original YA fiction
'Nuff said. It's about time I get started on writing outside fanfiction. I may not write anything, but I want to start gathering ideas.
4. Create stories for children
I tell stories to children. Sometimes, I would create my own stories on the fly, as mentioned before. This year, I want to see if, apart from YA fiction, I can write stories for children too.
What have you been doing since the year started? For me, I'm back at work and trying to get my life organised. My table was in a mess and I've just finished clearing it out. I'm also reading manga, letting the chapters fly by by the hundreds.
Since yesterday, I've been reading "Days of Exile". I started at Chapter 29. I did not know that there were a few errors and typos per chapter. It's pretty embarrassing. But is it arrogant of me to say that I enjoy reading "Days of Exile"? I really like reading the chapters, it almost feels like it's not mine.
All the best to everyone in this new year. May you continue to enjoy reading and writing!
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