the SARAH DESSEN post

Quick thing about me:

I read YA/MG almost exclusively. However, I cannot remember the last time I read YA contemp fiction. It's not that there's anything wrong with it, I just usually read for escapism purposes, and realistic books don't really offer me much of an escape. That's why I usually stick to fantasy/dystopian, etc.
However... it is practically undisputed fact that Sarah Dessen is one of the most talented and prolific authors in Young Adult literature, and her books are monumentally popular. I read The Truth About Forever in high school, and while unfortunately I don't remember it at all, I remember liking it. I really, REALLY want to read one/some of her books again, so I need recommendations!

Here's what I had in mind:
I'm going to have this post up while I work on some of my reviews. What I would love is for you guys to leave a comment with your favorite Sarah books, and/or ones you'd recommend. If you could narrow it down to 1 or 2, that would be awesome.
If there's a book you didn't particularly like, I'd like to know that as well!

Thanks a bunch, folks! Look forward to seeing what you have to say :)

So long, September!

September was an eXceLLenT month (reading wise...school wise it sucked) because for the first time since June, I was able to read 6 books instead of just 4! Woo-hoo for improvements.

Here are some AWARDS!
Number of Books: 6 (I finished Maze Runner today, but I'm counting it in Sept!)
Favorite Read: Hands down, Nevermore by Kelly Creagh. HANDS DOWN.Least Favorite Read: Pastworld by Ian Beck
Most Original Idea or Storyworld: I love the chaotic confusion that goes along with living in some kind of post-apocalyptic maze in The Maze Runner, but as far as originality... I'm going to have to go with the Poe-induced dreamworld of Nevermore
Weirdest/Strangest Idea or Storyworld: the whole premise of Pastworld sounds really cool, but unfortunately, that book was a miasma of weirdness.
Best Narrator/MC: Isobel Lanley from Nevermore is the best narrator...as to main character, would Varen Nethers count? He's my favorite!Best Villain: Cain Soren from the Gone series (representing Hunger and Lies)
Best Love Interest: VAREN NETHERS! I just want him to come over and read "Ulalume" to me :)
Best Supporting Character or Sidekick: Little Chuck from The Maze Runner :)
Author I'd Love to Hang Out With: James Dashner - he seems like a fun dude with a good sense of humor

Final Grades:

Nevermore
Hunger
Low Red MoonPastworld - Review pending
Lies - Review pending
The Maze Runner - Review pending

I know, I stink with all the 'review pending' stuff.