Double Happiness

Last year, I've been shot by cupid's arrow repeatedly of as I've fallen in love with a lot of really good books. This year, cupid's aim has been a little off lately with my so-so reading list. But then finally, he releases the bow. Flick...Whoosh... Pang. I've been hit again.

This time it's by the two-part series called Just One Day and Just One Year by Gayle Forman. 

Allyson Healey has always played it safe with her sheltered lifestyle and color-coded schedule. Until during a trip to Europe, she has taken the biggest leap of faith yet by agreeing to go to Paris with a boy, the handsome wanderer Willem, who she just met. They share the loveliest day of their lives but their story continues to one year of self-discovery, all the while in search for that one great love.

Their tale has a magical effect and yet it's believable. Forman has the sublime talent of describing places, people, and, best of all, emotions. I'm immersed by the scenery she paints, particularly during moments of ode to Shakespeare. It's truly amazing how his works transcend time. These 2013 novels show the joy and wonder that travel bring, the beauty of languages, and the similarities of the world despite diversity.

"Sometimes fate or life or whatever you want to call it, leaves a door a little open and you walk through it. But sometimes it locks and you have to find the key, or pick the lock, or knock the damn thing down. And sometimes, it doesn't even show you the door, and you have to build it yourself."

If you love books about love like me, this pair's a sure bull's eye.

-Martha

It's About Time

Released only last year, About Time is the story of Tim who, upon turning 21, learned a very exciting family secret. All the men in his father's family can travel through time! Well, travel only to the times and places they've been to themselves.

Time travel genre queen, McAdams &
my latest crush, Gleeson

Tim (Domhnall Gleeson) decided to change his past mistakes to better his love life. He met Mary (Rachel McAdams) and they liked each other instantly. However, he did something to help a friend which negated his meeting Mary. So, he planned to meet her for the 'first time' by using his knowledge about her. He had to keep re-meeting her until he succeeded. As his love life stabilized, his family life unraveled and he was forced to make difficult choices. He found out that there were consequences to his actions like everybody else.

'We're all travelling through time, together, everyday of our lives... All we can do is do our best to relish this remarkable life.' -Tim Lake

Although the movie is a little long for my taste (2 hours), there are many charming little scenes where one could pick up lessons or simply be touched by the events in Tim's life. I especially like the moments with his father. To be honest, I didn't like Gleeson as Bill Weasley in the Harry Potter movies and except for his Irish accent, he is forgettable in Never Let Me Go but I love him here. He played the part as a sweet, awkward, kinda nerdy guy, and was very cute doing it! Last I heard he's going to be in the latest Star Wars film. Can't wait for that! :)

-Faye

My Summer Travel Playlist

Summer is one of my favorite times of the year. It gives an exciting, refreshing vibe. When I think of summer, I think of the beach and travel. So I made a playlist perfect for that warm, lazy, wind-blowing-on-your-face, long drives. It's a mix of head-bobbing, foot-tapping jams and serene, soothing ballads. Here it is:

1. Island in the Sun by Weezer

Photo from Flickr

2. Honeymoon Avenue by Ariana Grande
3. With or Without You by U2
4. Every Teardrop is a Waterfall by Coldplay
5. Beautiful Soul by Jesse McCartney
6. One Day by Matisyahu
7. Me by Paula Cole
8. Northern Sky by Nick Drake
9. Kaleidoscope World by Francis Magalona
10. Summer Paradise by Simple Plan
11. Someday by Sugar Ray
12. I'm Yours by Jason Mraz
13. Strawberry Swing by Coldplay
14. Don't Worry Baby by The Beach Boys
15. Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole

I had a hard time narrowing down my choices and might have missed out on some great songs. But I hope you like it anyway. Or you can make your own, too! I'm psyched to hear what made your list. Happy summer! <3

-Martha