sponsor spotlight & giveaway with I Believe In Story

I'll admit it-- I'm a bookworm. I love love love to read and devour nearly any sort of book, which is why I'm excited to introduce one of my lovely sponsors Maria!

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Hi, everyone! My name is Maria and I blog over at I Believe In Story, where I post musings about all types of literature. Erika asked me to write a post with a few book recommendations. I hope these titles will inspire you to start making your own to-read list for the new year! Tweet me and let me know what books you plan to read this year.

for the fairytale fan.

1. MIRROR MIRROR by Gregory Maguire

A story that explores the classic tale of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.  Maguire's writing is absolutely beautiful.  You'll find yourself reading with a highlighter or a pen nearby, making sure you document all of the passages that speak directly to you.  For example: "We make of the hollow world a fuller, messier, prettier place, but all our inventions can't create the one thing we require: to deserve any fond attention we might accidentally receive, to receive any fond attention we don't in the course of things deserve."

for the art fan.

2. THE LADY AND THE UNICORN by Tracy Chevalier

A story based on the background behind six tapestries woven in the late 15th century.  Chevalier has created a fictional story about the people who were connected to the creation of the tapestry, from the rich man who commissions the piece to the family who work day and night to finish weaving before the project's deadline.  "Two families, two cities, one rogue go-between, and a set of gorgeous tapestries."

for the memoir fan.

3. LOOSE END by Ivan E. Coyote

A collection of short stories that focus on urban life in the city of Vancouver, British Columbia.  Coyote writes about the impact of modern society on the diverse Canadians that live around her.  A storyteller by trade, Coyote's craft and mastery over words will have you laughing and crying within a span of two pages.  The stories are short and sweet, commenting on the gender binaries we place upon ourselves and others.

for the classics fan.

4. THE AWAKENING by Kate Chopin

An often ignored American classic, The Awakening is about Edna Pontellier, a woman who struggles with her personal views about femininity and motherhood and the views of American society at the turn-of-the-century.  The book focuses on the psychology of Edna and her literal "awakening" from the expectations that have been placed upon her.

for the young adult fan.

5. THIS DARK ENDEAVOUR by Kenneth Oppel

Oppel's YA novel tells the story of Victor Frankenstein's apprenticeship as he discovers the world of alchemy and does everything possible to save his brother from death.  This book has just the right amount of fantasy to keep you on the edge of your seat, but the adventure is incredibly realistic.  The main character’s desire for power is something all readers will relate to - even if they don’t want to admit it.

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Maria is generously offering a rouge & whimsy reader a book of their choice from this list!

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway