Nonfiction Review: Brunette Ambition

A memoir that includes Lea Michele's rise to fame from her break on Broadway to her time out for high school to landing her role on the hit show Glee.

My Thoughts: I was really impressed by this book. It wasn't about Hollywood or gossip or how great fame can be. Instead it was about work ethic and striving to be your best, no matter what the task. It was about meeting your role models and become a role model. It was about the balance of work and play - of keeping yourself grounded and comfortable. It was about taking responsibility for your actions. It was about taking care of your body - both mentally and physically. 

The book includes plenty of tips from clothing and make-up to eating right and exercises. Photographs and recipes accompany the book - breaking up the text and making it a quick, fun, and informative read.

Cover Thoughts: Cute
Source: Sent for Review

Teen Review Thursday

Here's what teens are reading and talking about this summer in Norwich. I love seeing what teens think about the books they're reading. This week, they're talking about nonfiction...

Cool stuff and How it Works: 5 stars

I love electronics and science and this book is about electronics and how they work. It has really good quality pictures that walk you through the process.

How to Draw Comics the Marvel Way: 5 stars

Learn to draw comics from the comic pioneer Stan Lee an even gives you advice to draw you own heroes!

Review: Seventeen Ulitmate Guide to Beauty

A book for teens all about hair and makeup. There's a little bit on face cleaning and nails.
The book features tips by steps and/or pictures.
The make-up guide features real girls with celebrity idols and fashion icons. The make-up ranges from girly to glam to classic to edgy and to boho.  The hair guide features waves & curls, braids & twists, sleek, ponies, and finally updos and buns.

My Thoughts: I love the large bright photos making it easy  and fun to read. I love that the models shown are real girls who share their favorite beauty tips. I like that the pages following the real girls, there are photos of young celebrities with tips on how to get their looks. I love the photo step-by-step tips, making it easier to understand and to attempt a new style. Plus I like how the tips styles for weekend, party, school, and date including 5 tips from Hollywood's makeup artists.There's definitely some looks that I'll be attempting!


There's no product endorsement, which I both like and dislike. I like it because it gives readers freedom to choose, but I dislike it because there are a lot of products I know nothing about and it would be helpful to have a guideline. 


A fabulous book that teens will enjoy browsing with their friends.

Cover Thoughts: Really Cool
Source: FSB Associates (THANKS!)