Saturday, 31 December 2011

ABC Reading Challenge

ABC Reading Challenge

Rules:

You need to be a book blogger or have a GoodReads account.
Any book fictional book released in 2012 will count towards the challenge. MG, Young Adult or Adult.
Make a blog post/Goodreads list on the books you plan on reading and then link back here.
Sign ups end at June 2012

Bout of Books Read-a-Thon!

Bout of Books Read-a-Thon!

Here is your must-know information about Bout of Books:
  • Bout of Books will run from 12:01am 1/9 through 11:59 pm 1/15 (your time zone)
  • However, all posts on this blog and the challenges at the co-hosts' blogs will publish at midnight CST (or UTC-6).
  • Read as much as you can whenever you can. The only person you are competing against here is yourself. There is no pressure. Commit to the entire week or a few hours - whatever works best for your schedule.
  • Bout of Books should be about networking with fellow bloggers in addition to reading. You were going to read that week anyway, right? Bout of Books gives you the opportunity to share your reading experience with other readers.
  • Use #boutofbooks on Twitter to update people on your progress and what you are reading. Feel free to follow me (@BookBender) and your co-hosts for Bout of Books information, but please do NOT @ me (or the co-hosts) with all your updates. Using #boutofbooks should suffice. I will try to repopulate the Bout of Books Twitter list. For ideas for using Twitter to your advantage during the read-a-thon, visit our Twitter Tips page.
  • All challenges and giveaways are separate, meaning you can participate in any challenge even if you are not interested in the prize that day. All giveaway information can be found on the Giveaway page.
  • Help spread the word! Grab the button in the side bar and post it on your blog. Tweet. The more people we have participating, the more fun it will be.

Historical Fiction Challenge

Historical Fiction Challenge

To participate, you only have to follow the rules:
  • everyone can participate, even those who don't have a blog (you can add your book title and thoughts in the comment section if you wish)
  • add the link(s) of your review(s) including your name and book title to the Mister Linky we’ll be adding to our monthly post (please, do not add your blog link, but the correct address that will guide us directly to your review)
  • any kind of historical fiction is accepted (HF fantasy, HF young adult,...)
  • During these following 12 months you can choose one of the different reading levels:
  1. Severe Bookaholism: 20 books
  2. Undoubtedly Obsessed: 15 books
  3. Struggling the Addiction: 10 books
  4. Daring & Curious: 5 books
  5. Out of My Comfort Zone: 2 books

Friday, 30 December 2011

Book Survey 2011

I seen this going around YouTube and I was going to make a video but I just don't have the time right now. This survey is created by The Perpetual Page-Turner.

  1. Best book you read in 2011? The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
  2. Most disappointing book/book you wish you loved more than you did? A Lion Among Men by Gregory Maguire. I really enjoyed it but not as much as I thought I would.
  3. Most surprising (in a good way) book? The House of the Scorpion by Nancy Farmer
  4. Book you recommended most in 2011? Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
  5. Best series you discovered in 2011? Strange Angels by Lili St. Crow
  6. Favourite new authors you discovered? Suzanne Collins, Joe Hill, Karen Chance, Beth Revis, Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl
  7. Best book that was out of your comfort zone or was a new genre for you? Across the Universe by Beth Revis. I love sci-fi but I just never got around to reading a sci-fi  book until this year.
  8. Most thrilling, unputdownable book in 2011? Midnight's Daughter by Karen Chance
  9. Book you most anticipated in 2011? City of Fallen Angels by Cassandra Clare
  10. Favourite cover of a book you read in 2011? Across the Universe by Beth Revis
  11. Most memorable character in 2011? Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
  12. Most beautifully written book read in 2011? The Salbine Sisters by Sarah Ettritch and/or Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl. I can't pick just one.
  13. Book that had the greatest impact on you? Hate List by Jennifer Brown
  14. Book you can't believe you waited until 2011 to finally read? The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
  15. Favourite passage/quote from a book you read in 2011? I can't remember.
  16. Book you read in 2011 that you would most likely reread in 2012? Doctor Who: The Slitheen Excursion by Simon Guerrier.
  17. Book that had a scene in it that had you reeling and dying to talk to somebody about? (a WTF moment, an epic revelation, a steamy kiss, etc.) Be careful of spoilers! I can't think of anything. I have the worst memory.
  18. One book you didn't get to read in 2011 but will be your number one priority in 2012? Paranormalcy by Kiersten White.
  19. Book you are most anticipating for 2012? Velveteen by Daniel Marks
  20. One thing you hope to accomplish or do in your reading/blogging in 2012? Just one thing? I can't do it. I want to read more. I would also like to write more reviews and be a more social blogger.

Thursday, 29 December 2011

1001 Books You Must Read Before You Die Challenge

1001 Books You Must Read Before You Die Challenge

The challenge is simple – read some books from the list! If you don’t own the actual book, you can find a simple list online. For the most basic, check out the Listology list. There are spreadsheets outs there that you can look at too that are more complex.
Sine this year is an Olympics year, I thought the structure would change…so here are the levels this year!
 
Levels:
  • Got to trials: 5 books from the list
  • Made the Olympic team: 6-10 books from the list
  • Bronze medal: 11-15 books from the list
  • Silver Medal: 16-20 books from the list:
  • Gold Medal: 21+ books from the list
Rules:
  • Challenge runs January 1 2012 – December 31 2012.
  • You don’t have to make a list beforehand.
  • You DO need to choose your level at the beginning so you have a chance to win the prize!
  • You can use any version of the list, not just the current, since they update it every couple years.
  • I figure, once a book is on the list, it is always on the list!
  • Books that cover other challenges are not only permitted, but encouraged!

Wednesday, 28 December 2011

Winter's Respite Read-a-Thon

What: Winter's Respite Read-a-Thon
When: January 23 through January 29, 2012
Twitter: #WintersRespite
You do not have to have a blog to participate.
There is a giveaway!!

Sign up HERE!

Books Won Challenge

Books Won Challenge

The Levels are:
  • Honorable Mention: Read 1-3 book you won.
  • Bronze: Read 4-6 books you won.
  • Silver: Read 7-9 Books you won.
  • Gold: Read 10 or more books you won.
The Rules:
  1. You must write a review for each book that you read for it to count. If you do not have a blog you can write your reviews on a place like Amazon, Powell's, Chapters, Goodreads, etc.
  2. Crossovers with other challenges are okay and you can join this challenge anytime throughout the year.
  3. Audiobooks and ebooks count, as long as you won them.
  4. You can change up levels but cannot go back down a level.
  5. You don't have to make a list ahead of time for this challenge but you can if you want to.
  6. Sign up HERE!

Waiting on Wednesday: A Million Suns

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted HERE, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

A Million Suns (Across the Universe #2)
by Beth Revis
Expected publication: January 10th 2012 by Razorbill

Godspeed was fueled by lies. Now it is ruled by chaos.
It's been three months since Amy was unplugged. The life she always knew is over. And everywhere she looks, she sees the walls of the spaceship Godspeed. But there may just be hope: Elder has assumed leadership of the ship. He's finally free to enact his vision - no more Phydus, no more lies.

But when Elder discovers shocking news about the ship, he and Amy race to discover the truth behind life on Godspeed. They must work together to unlock a puzzle that was set in motion hundreds of years earlier, unable to fight the romance that's growing between them and the chaos that threatens to tear them apart.

In book two of the Across the Universe trilogy, New York Times bestselling author Beth Revis mesmerizes us again with a brilliantly crafted mystery filled with action, suspense, romance, and deep philosophical questions. And this time it all builds to one mind-bending conclusion: They have to get off this ship.

Sunday, 25 December 2011

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?


It's Monday! What Are You Reading? is hosted by Book Journey.

This week I read:
Right now I'm reading:
This week I hope to read:
  • I have no idea. I own 175+ (getting more today) books that I haven't read and I can't decide which one to read next. Fail.

What Would Jane Do Reading Challenge

What Would Jane Do Reading Challenge

The challenge will run from January 1st-December 31st 2012.

The books you read count for other challenges.
You can count ebooks in addition to regular ones.

Just Austen-
Books only written by Jane Austen

A Touch of Pride: Read 1-3 books

Learning Sense: Read 4+ books

Jane Austen and Beyond-
Books written by Jane and books that include variation of one of her works, sequels and/or books that use her as a fictional character.

Expanding Emmagination: Read 1-3 books by Jane Austen and 1-3 books that fall into one or all of the other categories.

Jane's Persuasion: Read 4+ books by Jane Austen and 4+ books from the other categories.

Witches and Witchcraft Reading Challenge

Witches and Witchcraft Reading Challenge


Challenge Rules:
  1. This challenge will run from Jan 1, 2012 - Dec 31, 2012. I will be posting a place to link up a sign-up post, reviews and a wrap-up post. (Note: You do not have to review the books to participate, but only those who link up reviews will be entered for the prize)
  2. Grab the reading challenge button and post this reading challenge on your blog to track your progress. Please include a link back to this sign-up post so others can join the reading challenge too. You do not have to be a book blogger to participate- you could track your progress and post reviews on Goodreads, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords, etc.
  3. Any full length book that includes a witch as a main character or major witchcraft elements counts. They may be fiction or non-fiction. However, they should not be reference books which are not read cover to cover-I will leave this to your discretion.
  4. Books can be any format (bound, eBook, audio).
  5. Re-reads and crossovers from other reading challenges are allowed.
  6. You can list your books in advance or just put them in a wrap-up post. If you list them, feel free to change them as the mood takes you.
  7. When you sign up in the linky put the direct link to your post about joining the 2012 Witches & Witchcraft Reading Challenge.
  8. You can move up levels, but no moving down.
  9. Sign-ups will be open until Dec 15, 2012, so feel free to join at any time throughout the year.
  10. Have some Witchy Good Fun !!!

    The Levels:

    Initiate: Read 1 - 5 Witchy Books
    Maiden: Read 6 - 10 Witchy Books
    Mother: Read 11 - 15 Witchy Books
    Crone: Read 16 - 20 Witchy Books

Friday, 23 December 2011

Ebook Challenge

Ebook Challenge

Challenge Guidelines:
  1. This challenge will run from Jan 1, 2012 - Dec 31, 2012.
  2. Anyone can join, you don't need to be a blogger. If you don't have a blog, feel free to sign-up in the comments. You can post reviews to any book site (i.e. Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords, Goodreads, etc).
  3. Any genre or length of book counts, as long as it is in ebook format.
  4. You can list your books in advance or just put them in a wrap-up post. If you list them, feel free to change them as the mood takes you.
  5. When you sign up in the linky, put the direct link to your post about joining the E-Book Reading Challenge.
  6. You can move up levels, but no moving down.
  7. Sign-ups will be open until Dec 15, 2012, so feel free to join at any time throughout the year.
Levels:
  1. Floppy disk - 5 ebooks
  2. CD - 10 ebooks
  3. DVD - 25 ebooks
  4. Memory stick - 50 ebooks
  5. Hard drive - 75 ebooks
  6. Server - 100 ebooks
  7. Human brain - 150 ebooks

Harry Potter Reading Challenge

Harry Potter Reading Challenge

The challenge:
 
Read all seven books in the Harry Potter series during 2012.
 
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Harry Potter and the Order of the Pheonix
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows


  • The challenge will run from January 1st, 2012, to December 31st, 2012. Books read before or after this time frame do not count. You can join anytime until the challenge ends.
  • Books can be in any format: Print, ebook, audiobook, etc..
  • You do not have to review the books to participate, although you are more than welcome to. If you choose not to review, you can also do the following and still be eligible for prizes:
    • Answer the discussion questions each month
    • Create a post talking about each book after you finish (any topic)
    • Just update your kickoff post after each book
    • Those without blogs can leave a comment with their thoughts/review/review link.
    • Because this is open to those who have already read HP, old reviews will be accepted. Whether you have read the books within the challenge time frame is on the honor system, so please be honest!
  • Be sure to leave the relevant links in each linky to be entered into the drawings for prizes (more on that below).
Once the challenge begins, there will be a new item in the menu bar titled: 2012 HPRC. This will take you to a page that will list all the related posts and linkys where you can post your reviews or discussions.

Get Steampunked! Reading Challenge

Get Steampunked! Reading Challenge
The Deets
  • Running Dates: 1st of January – 31st of December 2012
  • When Can I Sign Up: All the way up to the last two weeks of December!
  • Crossover Genres: Gaslight Fantasy (an example is His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman)
  • Mr Linky: To use the Mr Linky you’ll need to click on the graphic then enter your link. These will be updated and posted into this page every couple of weeks or so.
  • Further Details: Crossover challenges are fine, you can change levels at any time, this is eBook, short story, and graphic novel friendly, and you don’t need a blog to join in (read further for details).
The How To
  1. Choose Your Level: These are listed further down and you can change levels at any time.
  2. Grab The Badge: Place it somewhere on your blog, profile, or in a signature where possible and link back (main page or this page, it’s up to you).
  3. Sign Up Post: Create a post on your blog, in a group, or on a forum (only if allowed) to let others see what you’re aiming for (a predefined list of books is optional).
  4. Link Up: Grab the direct URL to your sign up post, not your blog, click the Mr Linky graphic and enter your link!
  5. Blogless? Don’t worry, you can sign up with your social network profile (YouTube, Twitter, GoodReads, Shelfari included), just make sure you link to your review list, shelf, tweet, or category. If you don’t have any of those feel free to comment!
Afterwards
  1. Your Reviews: Reviewing is optional! But if you do review we’d love for you to share them by submitting them on the Review Page.
  2. Finished: When you’re done it’s completion post time and you can share these on the Completion Post page!
Challenge Levels
  1. Geared – Choose 5 books to read
  2. Cogged – Choose 15 books to read
  3. Goggle Mad – Choose 30 books to read
  4. Victorian Lord/Lady – Choose 50 books to read
  5. Inventor – Choose 75 books to read
  6. Zephyr Pilot – Choose 76-135 books to read
  7. Steampunked! – Choose 136-200 books to read

The Dystopia 2012 Reading Challenge

The Dystopia 2012 Reading Challenge

What It’s All About
The Dystopia challenge is for those who love it and for those who have never tried it. From negative utopia to plain ol’ totalitarian, there’s much to love about Dystopia and many ways it can be written.
If you’re not sure what it is check out Diva Schuylers’s post and learn all about it, but for a quick run down think of unpleasant living situations, pure dystopia being when an entity or social force is involved, but you can think outside the circle with this one.
Here’s one of our Must Reads lists for some inspiration.
The Deets
  • Running Dates: 1st of January – 31st of December 2012
  • When Can I Sign Up: All the way up to the last two weeks of December!
  • Crossover Genres: Our Dystopia challenge also includes Post-Apocalypse and Ecotopia (environmentally dystopian).
  • Mr Linky: To use the Mr Linky you’ll need to click on the graphic then enter your link. These will be updated and posted into this page every couple of weeks or so.
  • Further Details: Crossover challenges are fine, you can change levels at any time, this is eBook, short story, and graphic novel friendly, and you don’t need a blog to join in (read further for details).
The How To
  1. Choose Your Level: These are listed further down and you can change levels at any time.
  2. Grab The Badge: Place it somewhere on your blog, profile, or in a signature where possible and link back (main page or this page, it’s up to you).
  3. Sign Up Post: Create a post on your blog, in a group, or on a forum (only if allowed) to let others see what you’re aiming for (a predefined list of books is optional).
  4. Link Up: Grab the direct URL to your sign up post, not your blog, click the Mr Linky graphic and enter your link!
  5. Blogless? Don’t worry, you can sign up with your social network profile (YouTube,Twitter, GoodReads, Shelfari included), just make sure you link to your review list, shelf, tweet, or category. If you don’t have any of those feel free to comment!
Afterwards
  1. Your Reviews: Reviewing is optional! But if you do review we’d love for you to share them by submitting them on the Review Page
  2. Finished: When you’re done it’s completion post time and you can share these on the Completion Post page.
Challenge Levels
  1. Asocial– Choose 5 books to read
  2. Contagion – Choose 15 books to read
  3. Soldier – Choose 30 books to read
  4. Drone – Choose 50 books to read
  5. Conditioned – Choose 75 books to read
  6. Brainwashed – Choose anywhere between 76-135 books to read
  7. Totalitarian – Choose anywhere between 136-200 books to read

Thursday, 22 December 2011

The 2012 “Books I started but didn’t finish” Reading Challenge

The 2012 “Books I started but didn’t finish” Reading Challenge

The goal:
  • Commit to finish some or all of the books you began to read in 2011 (or before) and never completed.
Prizes:
  • I will not give away prizes or otherwise motivate people to complete their goals for this challenge.
  • Instead, I encourage you to self-motivate.
  • Keep your list central on your blog (or elsewhere) and commit to buy yourself some sort of reward when you finish the task. (A book? A bookmark? Whatever you know will inspire YOU.)
The rules:
  • Post a list of the books you began reading in 2011 (or at some point in your life) and never finished reading. (Maybe even say why you stopped reading!)
  • You can list as few or as many titles as you intend to complete in 2012. One or twenty or a hundred – it’s YOUR challenge.
  • You can include whatever genres you please in this challenge.
  • It doesn’t matter how you go about finishing these books. You can combine them with any other challenges.
  • You do not need a blog to participate. You can simply list the books you want to finish in the comments below.
  • List the prize you will gift yourself when you complete this challenge in your challenge post (to make it official.)
  • Write yourself a little manifesto about how you intend to approach these left-over books.
  • Commit to finish your list by the end of 2012.
  • You are NOT allowed to stress if it takes longer than 2012 to finish your list! Just commit again in 2013!!
Books I've Started:

It by Stephen King
Skeleton Crew by Stephen King
Coming Out: An Act of Love by Rob Eichberg
The Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux
Half World by Hiromi Goto
On the Soul of a Vampire by Krisi Keley
Queers in History by Keith Stern

2012 Support Your Local Library Challenge

2012 Support Your Local Library Challenge

Rules:
  • Anyone can join.
  • You don't need a blog to participate. If you are a Non-blogger please leave a comment with a link (if you review elsewhere) to your review or with the book(s) you read.
  • Audio, ebooks (some libraries allow ebooks to be checked out), bound books are ok.
  • No re-reads
  • Create a sign up post and post the link in the linky below.
  • Challenge goes from January 1, 2012 - December 31, 2012
Levels:
Level 1 - Read 12 library books
Level 2 - Read 24 library books
Level 3 - Read 36 library books
Level 4 - Read 37+ library books

2012 Young Adult Reading Challenge

2012 Young Adult Reading Challenge

The Rules:
  • Anyone can join.
  • You don't need a blog to participate.
  • Non-Bloggers: Post your list of books in the comment section of the wrap-up post on Jamie's blog.
  • Audio, eBooks, paper, re-reads all count.
  • No need to list your books in advance. You may select books as you go. Even if you list them now, you can change the list if needed.
There are four levels:
  1. The Mini YA Reading Challenge – Read 12 Young Adult novels.
  2. The "Fun Size" YA Reading Challenge – Read 20 Young Adult novels.
  3. The Jumbo Size YA Reading Challenge – Read 40 Young Adult novels.
  4. The Mega size YA Reading Challenge – Read 50+ Young Adult novels.

2012 Reading Challenge Addict

2012 Reading Challenge Addict

How addicted are you?

  • Easy as Pie: 1-5 Challenges (Entered & Completed)
  • On the Roof: 6-10 Challenges (Entered & Completed)
  • In Flight: 11-15 Challenges (Entered & Completed)
  • Out of This World: 16+ Challenges (Entered & Completed)

2012 Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge

2012 Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge

Details:
  • Runs January 1, 2012 – December 31, 2012 (books read prior to 1/1/12 do not count towards the challenge). You can join at anytime. Sign up on The Book Vixen’s blog.
  • The goal is to outdo yourself by reading more books in 2012 than you did in 2011. See the different levels below and pick the one that works best for you. Nothing is set in stone; you can change levels at any time during the challenge.
  • Books can be any format (bound, eBook, audio).
  • Re-reads and crossovers from other reading challenges are allowed.
  • Grab the reading challenge button and post this reading challenge on your blog to track your progress. Please include a link back to this sign-up post so others can join the reading challenge too. You do not have to be a book blogger to participate; you could track your progress on Goodreads or LibraryThing.
Levels:
Getting my heart rate up – Read 1–5 more books
Out of breath – Read 6–10 more books
Breaking a sweat – Read 11–15 more books
I’m on fire! – Read 16+ more books

2012 Paranormal Romance Reading Challenge

2012 Paranormal Romance Reading Challenge

Rules:
  • Starts January 1, 2012 and ends December 31, 2012
  • Anyone can join
  • You don’t have to have a blog to participate.
  • Non-Bloggers feel free to share your list of books in the comment section of the monthly link up post.
  • Reviews though not required are always nice.
  • Audio, E-books, Bound and re-reads all count
  • There is no need to come up with your list of books in advance.
  • Challenge crossovers ok
  • Create a sign up post and link up in the linky below.
Levels:
Level 1 – Read 1-5 Paranormal Romances
Level 2 – Read 6-10 Paranormal Romances
Level 3 – Read 11-20 Paranormal Romances
Level 4 – Read 21+ Paranormal Romances

2012 Vampire Reading Challenge

2012 Vampire Reading Challenge

Rules:
  • Starts January 1, 2012 and ends December 31, 2012
  • Anyone can join
  • You don’t have to have a blog to participate.
  • Non-Bloggers feel free to share your list of books in the comment section of the monthly link up post.
  • Reviews though not required are always nice.
  • Audio, E-books, Bound and re-reads all count
  • There is no need to come up with your list of books in advance.
  • Challenge crossovers ok
  • Create a sign up post and link up using the linky.
Levels:
Level 1 – Read 1-5 Vampire Novels
Level 2 – Read 6-10 Vampire Novels
Level 3 – Read 11-20 Vampire Novels
Level 4 – Read 21+ Vampire Novels

Paranormal Reading Challenge

Paranormal Reading Challenge

The challenge is for ANY paranormal with the exception of vampires. They have their own challenge.
Rules:
  • Starts January 1, 2012 and ends December 31, 2012
  • Anyone can join
  • You don’t have to have a blog to participate.
  • Non-Bloggers feel free to share your list of books in the comment section of the monthly link up post.
  • Reviews though not required are always nice.
  • Audio, E-books, Bound and re-reads all count
  • There is no need to come up with your list of books in advance.
  • Challenge crossovers ok
  • Create a sign up post and link up using the linky.
Levels:
Level 1 – Read 1-5 Paranormal Novels
Level 2 – Read 6-10 Paranormal Novels
Level 3 – Read 11-20 Paranormal Novels
Level 4 – Read 21+ Paranormal Novels

Outlander Series Reading Challenge

Outlander Series Reading Challenge

Rules: Read all SEVEN (7) books in The Outlander Series by Diana Gabaldon
Sign Up Details:
If you want to take part all you have to do is create a sign up post in the Mr Linky area located at the bottom of this page.
  • To sign up you MUST comment after linking your info below.
  • Please add the button to your sidebar – make sure that it links back to this post so others can join the challenge if they wish. Please make a post on your blog about participating in the challenge and link back here.
  • If you don’t have a blog or URL that’s fine you can still participate….please email me your info and I will post. My email is thelitbitch@me.com
  • Audio books are ok
  • If you have read the series before or are a few of the books that’s fine feel free to participate…..the goal is to read all the books whether it’s your first time or not ENJOY
Challenge Details:
  • Timeline: 01 Jan 2012 – 31 Dec 2012 (SIGN UP ANYTIME BETWEEN NOW AND THEN!!)
  • Rules – Read all SEVEN (7) books in the Outlander Series (books titles below).
  • The reading challenge can crossover into other challenges.
  • You can join anytime between now and the later part of next year.
  • Reviews are great but not required.
  • You DO NOT have to have a blog to join in -just email me at thelitbitch@me.com and I will be sure to include you in the challenge/subscriptions– join the discussion and comments section to let us know when you’ve read a book and what you thought of it!
  • Let your voice and opinions be heard! COMMENTS/DISCUSSION ARE APPRECIATED!
Books in Series Order:
  1. Outlander (1991)
  2. Dragonfly in Amber (1992)
  3. Voyager (1994)
  4. Drums of Autumn (1997)
  5. The Fiery Cross (2001)
  6. A Breath of Snow and Ashes (2005)
  7. An Echo in the Bone (2009)

Narnia Reading Project 2012

Narnia Reading Project 2012

This is no read-along with a reading schedule. If you blogged about one of the books or want to discuss anything, just leave a comment on this page to link us up to your post or just share your thoughts right here.
The seven books in publication order (German titles in brackets)
  1. The lion, the witch and the wardrobe (Der König von Narnia)
  2. Prince Caspian: The return to Narnia (Prinz Kaspian von Narnia)
  3. The voyage of the Dawn Treader (Die Reise auf der Morgenröte)
  4. The silver chair (Der silberne Sessel)
  5. The horse and his boy (Der Ritt nach Narnia)
  6. The magician’s nephew (Das Wunder von Narnia)
  7. The last battle (Der letzte Kampf)
The seven books in chronological order
  1. The magician’s nephew
  2. The lion, the witch and the wardrobe
  3. The horse and his boy
  4. Prince Caspian: The return to Narnia
  5. The voyage of the Dawn Treader
  6. The silver chair
  7. The last battle

2012 Sci-Fi Challenge

2012 Sci-Fi Challenge

Want to challenge yourself to read outside your comfort zone in 2012?
Like science fiction but tend to put off reading it?
Are you a total geek but never really take the time to read?
If you answered yes to any of the above, sign up for my 2012 reading challenge now! The idea is to read one sci-fi book each month however we all have different reading speeds so set yourself a number that you feel comfortable with.

What books count as sci-fi?
There's more to science fiction than aliens and spaceships. The dictionary definition is: fiction dealing principally with the impact of actual or imagined science on society or individuals or having a scientific factor as an essential orienting component. So that includes dystopias, zombie viruses, genetic engineering gone awry, time travel, steampunk, extreme weather, space exploration and, of course, aliens.
Not a book blogger?
That's OK. As long as you are willing to write some words about the book on a publicly accessible site (eg. Goodreads, personal blog) you can join in. If you're not sure where you'll be posting you can sign up with a social network account.
Monthly giveaways!
Yes, each book you read will get you an entry into some great giveaways throughout the year.
Don't know where to start?
I'll be choosing a featured book each month as an optional readalong. If you'd like to treat it as a book group, we can arrange discussions too.
Add yourself to the Mr Linky list to sign up. New link-ups will be posted at the end of each month for you to share the books you've read

Serial Killers Reading Challenge 2012

Serial Killers Reading Challenge 2012

Serial Killers Reading Challenge 2012:When you read a book about a serial killer, are you fascinated, scared, intrigued, paranoid........ then join the Serial Killers Reading Challenge and share the best of the best. It may be the detectives, profilers or the serial killer that keep you up reading long into the night.
This Challenge is not about how many you read but finding the best of the best and 'remembering' to link your review.
Here are 2 links to use to help you choose but any book from any genre involving a serial killer counts towards the challenge.
NPR Audience - Top 100 Killer List
Goodreads Listopia - I like Serial Killers
Details:

* Challenge Dates: January 1, 2012 - December 31, 2012
* All Genres are Welcome
* All forms of books will count - eBooks, Audiobooks, etc
* You do not have to list the chosen books ahead of time and your choices can crossover into other challenges you have joined.
* If you participate in this challenge please sign up below. Either post and link back here with your direct link to your intro challenge post or put Challenge Button on sidebar linking back here please.
* Surprise Giveaways - Only those that have posted review(s) will be entered
In the comments below, tell us what serial killer book you have found to be the best. This is one of my favourite books and movie - Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris.
Note - I will keep a list of all favourites and 5 star reviews to create a 'Personalized Bloggers List' for future years.
Thank you for joining - Review Post will go up first week of Jan

Harper Imprint Challenge (January 2012)

Harper Imprint Challenge (January 2012)

Here is the breakdown of the challenge:
  • Open to anyone, whether you blog or not
  • Books started before January 1 do not count - and we're going on the honor system with this!
  • Audio books and ebooks do count of course
  • Your books can be crossovers with other challenges
  • Sign-ups will stay open through January 7
  • Choose a challenge level and make an intro post with a link back to this post!
Here are the challenge levels, make sure you choose one that you think is realistic for you.
  • Easy: 1-4 books
  • Medium: 5-8 books
  • Hard: 9-12 books
And here's a schedule of events that will be happening throughout the month, with more possibly to be added.
  • January 1: Event starts! Review link-up for the first week posted.
  • January 4: First 24 hour Harper book giveaway!
  • January 8: Review link-up for the second week goes up.
  • January 11: Second 24 hour Harper book giveaway.
  • January 15: Harper Imprint Challenge Readathon! Starts at 9am Pacific time and lasts for 24 hours; Review link-up for the third week
  • January 18: Third 24 hour Harper book giveaway.
  • January 22: Review Link-up for the last week, including the 29th through the 31st
  • January 25: Last 24 hour Harper book giveaway!
  • January 31: - Last day of the challenge!
On February 1 there will be one final giveaway for those who participated and do a wrap up post of your accomplishments! So don't forget those posts.

Game of Thrones 2012 Reading Challenge

Game of Thrones 2012 Reading Challenge
Challenge Details:
  • Timeline: 01 Jan 2012 – 31 Dec 2012 (SIGN UP ANYTIME BETWEEN NOW AND THEN!!)
  • Rules – Read all FIVE (5) books in the Game of Thrones (A Song of Ice and Fire Series) (books titles below).
  • The reading challenge may crossover into other challenges.
  • You can start anywhere in the series, if you have read 1 book or 4 already it doesn’t matter just read the series
  • You can join anytime between now and the later part of next year.
  • Reviews are great but not required.
  • You DO NOT have to have a blog to join in -just email me at thelitbitch@me.com and I will be sure to include you in the challenge/subscriptions– join the discussion and comments section to let us know when you’ve read a book and what you thought of it!
  • Let your voice and opinions be heard! COMMENTS/DISCUSSION ARE APPRECIATED!
Books in Series Order:
  1. A Game Of Thrones
  2. A Clash of Kings
  3. A Storm of Swords
  4. A Feast For Crows
  5. A Dance With Dragons

Immortal Reading Challenge

Immortal Reading Challenge

Here’s the rundown:
1. The Immortals Reading Challenge runs from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2012. You can join at anytime from now and throughout the year. This is a 2012 challenge, so books read before January 1 will not count to your progress.
2. You pick your goal! Read as many books as you’d like for each species. This means that you can do just one category or all five or a combination of. The choice depends on you and your reading pace.
*We have chosen to have a three book per species standard. However, if this is a breeze for you, then feel free to tackle on the additional bonus entries of two more books of the same level.
3. Re-reads are acceptable.
4. Books chosen can be of any genre.
5. To participate, copy and paste this post on your blog along with the challenge button. We ask that you provide a link back to the sign-up page in case others wish to participate.
6. Readers without blogs can still participate! Keep track of your progress with Goodreads, Shelfari or LibraryThing.

To sign up:
1. Make a sign up post announcement, listing the level you've chosen and a list of books you plan to read. If you don't have a blog, post on GoodReads or another site as a thread where we can access your list of books. Be sure to take the image code above.
2. Come back here and using the list below, add your entry with a link directly to that post so we can see what you'll be reading.
You're done! Every month during 2012 we will make a challenge update post where you can come and updates us on how you're doing with your challenge.

Category 1: Vampires
Some ideas for Vampire books
Read any THREE books with vampires as the main characters.
Bonus Entries: Additional TWO books with vampires

Category 2: Angels and Demons
Some ideas for Angels and Demons books
Read any THREE books with angels and/or demons as the main characters.
Bonus Entries: Additional TWO books with angels and/or demons

Category 3: Fae
Some ideas for Fae books
Read any THREE books with Fae as the main characters
Bonus Entries: Additional TWO books on Fae.

Category 4: Shifters/Werewolves
Some ideas for Shifter books
Read any THREE books with shifters or werewolves as the main characters.
Bonus Entries: Additional TWO books on shifters or werewolves.

Dean Koontz Reading Challenge

Dean Koontz Reading Challenge

No matter if you haven't read a book by him before or whether you know them all, this challenge is for both newbies as well as fans. It doesn't matter whether it's his latest novel or a re-read, every book with Dean's name on it counts! I'm a huge fan of Dean Koontz, so in my case it will be mostly re-reading, preferably of older books. If you should need some recommendations, don't hesitate to ask. And here's a little helper: Dean Koontz Book List
3 Books - Odd Thomas' Mailman
6 Books - Odd Thomas' Neighbor (this will be the one I'm settling for)
9 Books - Odd Thomas' Best Friend
12 Books or more - Odd Thomas' Stalker
If all this talk about Odd Thomas confuses you, I suggest you start the challenge by reading the respective novel!
To sign up, please read the general rules below! Then post about the challenge on your blog, including the button above, and don't forget to link back to the Dean Koontz Reading Challenge page on my blog!
*****
RULES
Anyone may join. Just leave a comment below with the following info:
Name / Blog (if you have one) / Chosen Level
I'll comprise a list with everyone and add it to this page!
Updates on the challenges will be posted on a regular basis and you may then comment with your own progress.
The challenge will take place between January 1st and December 31st 2012.
You can join any time between now and early 2012.
You have to pick a level, though you may "upgrade" to the next one at any time. In this case just drop me a line, so I can change your previous level.
You don't need to list your books ahead of time, though I won't object if you do. I'm definitely curious about your book choices for these challenges.
The books you choose may crossover into other challenges.
Both physical and eBooks are allowed.
Reviews of the books read are not mandatory.

Free Reads 2012 Reading Challenge

Free Reads 2012 Reading Challenge

What It’s All About
Are you one of those book lovers who receive lots of books for presents? Have unread books lying around that you won in giveaways, received as ARCs, were given second hand, or even found lying around in the street! Then you might want to join in this challenge because we’re aiming to read all those unread books received as freebies in some form.
The Deets
  • The Main Rule: Read books you’ve received without purchasing, gifts, ARCs, prizes (not library books), that you haven’t read yet.
  • Running Dates: 1st of January – 31st of December 2012
  • When Can I Sign Up: All the way up to the last two weeks of December!
  • Crossover Genres: Anything! As long as they were free when you got them, it doesn’t matter..
  • Mr Linky: To use the Mr Linky you’ll need to click on the graphic then enter your link. These will be updated and posted into this page every couple of weeks or so.
  • Further Details: Crossover challenges are fine, you can change levels at any time, this is eBook, short story, and graphic novel friendly, and you don’t need a blog to join in (read further for details).
The How To
  1. Choose Your Level: These are listed further down and you can change levels at any time.
  2. Grab The Badge: Place it somewhere on your blog, profile, or in a signature where possible and link back (main page or this page, it’s up to you).
  3. Sign Up Post: Create a post on your blog, in a group, or on a forum (only if allowed) to let others see what you’re aiming for (a predefined list of books is optional).
  4. Link Up: Grab the direct URL to your sign up post, not your blog, click the Mr Linky graphic and enter your link!
  5. Blogless? Don’t worry, you can sign up with your social network profile (YouTube, Twitter, GoodReads, Shelfari included), just make sure you link to your review list, shelf, tweet, or category. If you don’t have any of those feel free to comment!
Afterwards
  1. Your Reviews: Reviewing is optional! But if you do review we’d love for you to share them by submitting them on the Review Page (including social networks).
  2. Finished: When you’re done it’s completion post time and you can share these on the Completion Post page!
Challenge Levels
  1. For Me? – Choose 5 books to read
  2. On The Cheap – Choose 15 books to read
  3. Bargain – Choose 30 books to read
  4. Presents – Choose 50 books to read
  5. So Free – Choose 75 books to read
  6. Gift Addict – Choose between 76-135 books to read
  7. Speechless – Choose between 136-200 books to read

That's What YOU Think! Reading Challenge

That's What YOU Think! Reading Challenge

You may remember a few years ago that the BBC published a list of 100 books that they believed the majority of us have only read 6 off - personally I think that the list is a little off as there are whole collections (e.g. The Complete Works of Shakespeare) listed and then individual works from the collection listed (obviously Hamlet isn't part of the Complete Works of Shakespeare :/).
I for 1 hate being told what is expected of me (when it comes to this kind of thing) and slotted into a nice little box.

So the purpose of this challenge will be read more than 6 of the books that are on the list and if you have read some of them already, all the better! :)
You can set yourself a personal goal or just take each book at a time as it comes your way through the winds of chance. Whatever you prefer.
Every month staring January 1st I will put up a post so you can link to your reviews, comments or rants on the book you have tackled.
And most of all guys have fun!

YA Mythology Challenge

YA Mythology Challenge

The challenge is to read 10 YA or Middle grade novels that incorporate any type of Mythology in the story line (Greek, Egyptian, Norse, etc.).

• The challenge will run from January 1, 2012 – December 31, 2012.
• You can join anytime by filling out the form below
• Books must be read in 2012
• If you are a blogger, you must write a sign-up post that links back to this challenge page (Please use the image above in the post).
• If you are not a blogger, just leave a link to your account on Goodreads, Twitter, Facebook, LibrayThing, etc.

YA Contemporary Reading Challenge

YA Contemporary Reading Challenge

There are different levels that you can choose to challenge yourself in:
Level 1: 5+ books
Level 2: 10+ books
Level 3: 15+ books

Rules:
You can read any contemporary YA novel that is published between January 1, 2012and December 30, 2012 but you must read them in 2012! (All formats accepted: paperback, ARC, e-book)

Zombie Reading Challenge

Zombie Reading Challenge

Challenge Details
Timeline: 01 Jan 2012 - 31 Dec 2012
• Rules: There are FOUR (4) LEVELS to choose from:
- One Chomp: Read 6 Zombie books in 2012
- Two Chomps: Read 12 Zombie books in 2012
- Three Chomps: Read 18 Zombie books in 2012
- Four Chomps: Read 24 Zombie books in 2012
You don't have to select your books ahead of time, you can just add them as you go. Also if you do list them upfront you can change them, nothing is set in stone! The books you choose can crossover into other challenges you have on the go.
You can join at anytime. All books read in 2012 count towards the challenge regardless of when you sign up.
At the beginning of Jan 2012, you will find a link to specific month to add your reviews.
• Audiobooks do not count, but all other formats are accepted.
• Only fiction, no non-fiction.
• This challenge can crossover to other challenges.
• At the beginning of Jan 2012, you will find a link to add your reviews.
• You don't have to have a blog to join in - for those without a blog just FILL IN THIS FORM and I will add you to the list - just join the discussion in the comments section to let us know when you've read a book and what you thought of it! :)
If you need help choosing your zombie reads, check out my ZOMBIE SHELF on Goodreads for ideas!

Horror & Urban Fantasy Reading Challenge

Horror & Urban Fantasy Reading Challenge

Challenge Details
• Timeline: 01 Jan 2012 - 31 Dec 2012
• There are two levels:
- Read TWENTY FOUR (24) horror & urban fantasy novels in 2012
- Read FORTY EIGHT (48) horror & urban fantasy novels in 2012
• You don't have to select your books ahead of time, you can just add them as you go. Also if you do list them upfront you can change them, nothing is set in stone! The books you choose can crossover into other challenges you have on the go.
• You can join the challenge at anytime. All books read in 2012 count towards the challenge regardless of when you sign up.
• Audiobooks do not count, but all other formats are accepted.
• No non-fiction - only fiction.
• This challenge can crossover to other challenges.
• At the beginning of Jan 2012, you will find a link to add your reviews.
• You don't have to have a blog to join in - for those without a blog just FILL IN THIS FORM and I will add you to the list - just join the discussion in the comments section to let us know when you've read a book and what you thought of it! :)

Sophomore Reading Challenge

Sophomore Reading Challenge

What books count towards the SRC?
Any second YA or MG book published by an author in 2012 counts – it can be the second in a series, a new series, or a standalone. The only requirement is that it is the SECOND book the author has published in the YA or MG realm (and it must publish in 2012 in your home country)! I have started a Goodreads list HERE – as you can see, there are probably many many books on that list you are planning on reading already.
When does the challenge run?
Books read before January 2013 count for this challenge.
Why should I join this challenge?
Reading debut novels is AWESOME. It is by far my favorite challenge – it allows me to find many new authors that I love. What better way to support these authors than to read their next published book?
What are the guidelines of the challenge?
Your challenge is to read 10 sophomore YA/MG novels in 2012. To officially participate, you need a Goodreads account or blog where you post reviews in English.
What should I do if I’m an author coming out with a sophomore novel?
I would love to feature you on my blog! Please contact me via THIS FORM or by e-mail (shanynlee at gmail.com).
How do I join?
Link your blog or Goodreads account below, and make a list of the sophomore novels you’re looking forward to.
There will be prize packs given away to challenge participants throughout next year. You will receive an automatic entry for signing up to participate – options for additional entries will be announced at the time of the giveway.

Finishing the Series Reading Challenge

Finishing the Series Reading Challenge

Here are the rules guidelines.
  1. All books that are part of a continuing series qualify (i.e. Debbie Macomber's Cedar Cove, Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum, James Patterson's Alex Cross, etc. etc.)
  2. It doesn't matter if you have 1 or 10 books in a series to complete it, it qualifies (i.e. if you only need to read one more Sookie Stackhouse book to complete the goal, that's fine) The goal is to complete a series from wherever you are up to until the last published book.
  3. The qualification period is January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2012. Books must be read during this time frame to count.
  4. Take the button above and post about it. Use the Mr. Linky below to sign up, but make sure you link it directly to your post about this challenge.
  5. If you don't have a blog, that's fine. Just leave a comment to sign up and tell us what you are reading.
  6. Any format of book counts - audio, ebook, etc.
  7. You should choose the series you want to finish before the challenge begins, but it isn't necessary. It's fine to change series during the year - as long as you complete whichever series it is.
  8. Choose a level....
Level 1 - Complete 1 series.
Level 2 - Complete 2 series.
Level 3 - Complete 3 or more series.

First in a Series Challenge

First in a Series Challenge

Are you an avid series reader? Do you want to give a few new series a try? Then this is the reading challenge for you! Participants in the 1st in a Series Challenge decide to start a certain number of series in 2012 and then share their reviews with the community!
(This challenge has previously been hosted at J. Kaye’s Book Blog, Royal Reviews, and A Few More Pages)
Interested in joining the fun? Here are the guidelines:
1. Anyone can join. You don’t need a blog to participate. If you’re not a blogger, you can post your reviews at a review site like Goodreads, LibraryThing, or Shelfari and link them up here.
2. There are four levels for this challenge:
  • Series Novice: Read 3 books that are the first in any series.
  • Series Lover: Read 6 books that are the first in any series.
  • Series Expert: Read 12 books that are the first in any series.
  • Series Fanatic: Read 20 books that are the first in any series.
You can list your books in advance or just put them in a wrap up post. If you list them, feel free to change them as the mood takes you. Any genre counts. Any book format counts. 3. The challenge runs from January 1 through December 31, 2012. 4. You can join anytime between now and December 31, 2012.
5. A post will be created here where you can link-up your reviews and visit the reviews of other participants.
6. If you’re a blogger, write up a sign-up post that includes the URL to this post so that others can join in. Feel free to use the button! You can grab the code you need from the box in the right sidebar.
If you write up a sign-up post, enter the direct link to that post when you sign up here so we can find it easily. Otherwise, link away!

2nds Challenge 2012

2nds Challenge 2012

Have you read a book by an author that you really enjoyed and felt moved to read another of the author’s works? Or are you thinking to give an author another try even if you didn’t like your first taste of their work? If yes, then this challenge is for you! You’re going to go back for seconds of an author that you’ve only read once. The great thing about this challenge is that it’s not just for your second in a series books, but the second time you’ve read an author as well.
(This challenge has previously been hosted at J. Kaye’s Book Blog, Royal Reviews, and A Few More Pages)
Interested in joining the fun? Here are the guidelines:
1. Anyone can join. You don’t need a blog to participate. If you’re not a blogger, you can post your reviews at a review site like Goodreads, LibraryThing, or Shelfari and link them up here.
2. There are four levels to choose from in this challenge:
  • Just a spoonful - Read 3 books that are 2nd in a series or the second time you’ve read the author.
  • A few more bites - Read 6 books that are 2nd in a series or the second time you’ve read the author.
  • A full plate - Read 12 books that are 2nd in a series or the second time you’ve read the author.
  • All you can eat - Read 20 books (or more) that are 2nd in a series or the second time you’ve read the author.
You can list your books in advance or just put them in a wrap up post. If you list them, feel free to change them as the mood takes you. Any genre counts. Any book format counts.
3. The challenge runs from January 1 through December 31, 2012. 4. You can join anytime between now and December 31, 2012.
5. A post will be created here where you can link-up your reviews and visit the reviews of other participants.
6. If you’re a blogger, write up a sign-up post that includes the URL to this post so that others can join in. Feel free to use the button! You can grab the code you need from the box in the right sidebar.
If you write up a sign-up post, enter the direct link to that post when you sign up here so we can find it easily. Otherwise, link away!
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