Linda Bolton

In this fun romance novel, the heroine is given the opportunity to see what it's like to date her Hollywood crush. I enjoyed reading the introduction to the book where the author confessed that Derek's character was based on the real-life actor Gerard Butler. I've also been a fan of the Scottish hunk for the past few years, so it was easy to picture him acting out the scenes in the book.

Overall, I enjoyed reading "Take 2." However, there is some room for improvement. For example, the book would have benefited from more showing and less telling. Instead of simply telling us that the couple is in love, the author could have shown us-- through flirty banter, private jokes, shared interests, etc. It felt a little bit like we fast forwarded from strangers meeting the first time to lovers. I would've enjoyed reading more about how their relationship developed and the things that brought them together.

** Spoiler Alert **

My second criticism of the book was that there were several places where I had to "suspend my belief." There were times when the characters did things that didn't really make sense to me. I couldn't see their motivation. For instance, there's a scene where Alex and Derek went to see a Las Vegas show. Afterwards the host invited them backstage. He made a bet with Derek involving a deck of cards. If Derek lost, his girlfriend would have to go on a date with the other guy. The guy was a showman and a magician (not to mention the fact that it was his deck of cards), yet Derek agreed to the bet. Why would he do that?

Plus, Alex went along with it. In reality, most 21st century women would look between the two men, roll her eyes, and say something along the lines of "you're both idiots" before turning on her heal and walking away. Why would she go along with their chauvinistic bet?

Critiques aside, I enjoyed reading "Take 2" and I look forward to reading Linda Bolton's next book!
… (meer)

Your eyes will thank you for reading this introductory guide to Cubism. Both novice and seasoned art viewers will walk away with a foundation of knowledge that will allow them to better appreciate the Cubists and the art that followed them. Starting with the innovative groundwork laid by Cezanne, the book then devotes a spread each to ten Cubist painters, including such artists as Picasso, DeLaunay and Duchamp. Each artist profile includes a brief biographical overview, as well as two to three reproductions of their work. For the most part Cubism developed in the United States and France, and the book concludes with a brief synopsis of how Cubism developed outside of these two countries. The text is followed with a glossary of useful words as well as a time line outlining important Cubist dates and events that coincided with the art movement. Further resources are presented in both website and book form, and galleries housing Cubist collections are mentioned for in-person viewing enjoyment. Strongly recommended for readers of all ages who want to gain a better understanding of modern art. Appropriate for both middle school and high school libraries.… (meer)