The Mysterious Benedict Society

Okay readers, here's something to check out. I just bought this book yesterday based on a recommendation from an editor at a children's literature conference. Plus, it was on sale and only about $5. I do not have will power strong enough to say no to a $5 book. It's called The Mysterious Benedict Society, and it was written by Trenton Lee Stewart. So far I've only been able to stop reading a) if I'm sleeping, b) if I'm in class, or c) if I'm at work (with very limited will power in the c category).

The basic scenario: Reynie Muldoon is a gifted child looking for special opportunities, so he certainly has to follow the add that leads him to just that. What follows is a series of test and a few new friends, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Try it. Then you, too, can become a clever kid detective with special opportunities.

If you make it through, there's also a recent sequel, which I'm sure I'll be reading as soon as my budget (or local library) allows.

Published!

It's official: Today I became a published editor. I volunteered on a student journal at my university last semester, and now the journals are out and my name is in print. I must say, it's a new and exciting feeling, and one that I could get accustomed to. You might say, "It almost makes my career begin."

Of course, this happy circumstance comes at the same moment that I rediscover the drive for my true passion: writing. Yesterday, I went to a children's book conference at a neighboring university, and spent the day meeting with authors, editors, librarians, and teachers--all the pantheons of the children's book world. One of the best days ever. Now those ideas for novels that I've been carrying around for years are starting to surface. Even now, as I type this, my fingers are itching to release what's really inside them: a good story. Or at least a story I think is good. I'll let you know when you can find out for yourself. It shouldn't be too long now. My fingers can't contain it much longer.

The Last Word in Cereal

Today, I heard a slightly happy twist to the not-so-happy story of champion/misdirected youth Michael Phelps. Kellog dropped his sponsorship after news of his marijuana use hit the press, but apparently they donated all remaining boxes of Cornflakes with his picture to the Los Angeles food bank. Now, those without cereal can eat the breakfast of champions. Even if its a fallen champion. I still have one box left, the two inches of cornflakes I couldn't bring myself to eat after consuming two and a half full boxes singlehandedly.

Another optimistic development: this controversy brings out some good word witticisms. I've seen the events described as "Snap, Crackle, Flop."

Also, my seven foot poster of Michael performing his flawless butterfly stroke has arrived. But I've yet to find a wall space big enough for it in my apartment.

The Birthday Card Philosopher's Irish Mentor

I'm journeying through one of my favorite novels again, Maeve Binchy's Circle of Friends. A must read for any woman who is going to college or has ever been to college, or even knows any woman who's ever been to college. I sympathize with Benny and find Aidan Lynch the best male character overall, although Jack has his charms. It keeps me daydreaming for days, right when spring fever is in the air. Not five minutes ago, I decided to peruse Maeve's website and discovered her brief but fascinating bio. Check it out. (Just click "About Maeve.")

I particularly hope to emulate her traveling for pleasure, writing for life, and marrying for love. Not to mention the utter beauty of everything Irish. And, doesn't she have the best name for a writer? Ever? I'm officially inviting you to her circle of friends. You won't regret it.

A cautionary note: Don't check out the movie of the same name based on the book. Just because it includes Minnie Driver and the oh-so-charming Chris O'Donnell is no reason to trust it. Totally inaccurate and unnecesary change to the perfection that is Maeve's book.

When the moon hits your eye...

I love Dean Martin. Love. Which is why its so perfect that he has a new album coming out (despite being dead) entitled "Amore." No joke. I just found this out through his fan page on Facebook. I was thinking it would have all the songs I already own from him, and it does have a few, but many I've never heard of. I know I'm going to check it out. I'll let you know. I can already recommend "I've Grown Accustomed to Her Face," Dean's version of the song from My Fair Lady. Let's just say Rex Harrison has nothing on Dino. When Dean sings it, it's actually romantic. I sigh when I think of him giving up his arrogance, all because a woman is simple yet unforgettable. Which is what the song is. Especially if you find the version with Chris Botti accompanying him on the trumpet. Pure magic. You can find the video on YouTube if you don't want to shell out $15 for the CD, or spend 99 cents buying the song on iTunes. See the album, "Forever Cool." Because that's what Dean is. As Grace describes him in Return to Me, "Best Male Singer--Dead."