The Traveler's Gift

The Book:  The Traveler's Gift by Andy Andrews

Summary (taken from Goodreads): 

This unique blend of fiction, history, allegory, and inspiration shares the story of one man who has lost his will to live. But an encounter with seven of history's most inspirational characters, among them Anne Frank and Abraham Lincoln, leaves him with seven bits of wisdom with which to confront his future.

What I Thought: 

I am not a fan on sad/depressing books at all, and when I started reading this book for my book club, I was not that excited about it.  I changed my mind quickly, though, as David, the main character began to gather his seven decisions of success from famous leaders in history.  I think the author could have done much more with such bigger-than-life characters in this story, but none the less, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.  Not only was it fun to go back in time to such stand-out moments in time, but the overall message was so positive and inspiring.  The "big idea" seems to be that  YOU are responsible for you and your life, which is terrifying and exhilarating at the same time.

Rating:  9/10

Shiver

The Book:
Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater

Summary from the author's website:
(http://www.maggiestiefvater.com/)

For years, Grace has watched the wolves in the woods behind her house. One yellow-eyed wolf—her wolf—is a chilling presence she can't seem to live without. Meanwhile, Sam has lived two lives: In winter, the frozen woods, the protection of the pack, and the silent company of a fearless girl. In summer, a few precious months of being human... until the cold makes him shift back again.

Now, Grace meets a yellow-eyed boy whose familiarity takes her breath away. It's her wolf. It has to be. But as winter nears, Sam must fight to stay human—or risk losing himself, and Grace, forever.

What I Thought:
I thought this would be another Twilight-ish book, but I was pleasantly surprised. Unlike Stephine Meyer's werewolves, Stiefvater's werewolves change because of the weather - more specifically the cold. I enjoyed the twist on the traditional werewolf story and the main character's troublesome romance seemed to fit very well in the dark YA tale. Though I felt the book dragged a bit in some parts, the desire to find out what happens to the characters kept me reading. I found the last few chapters left me heartbroken, surprised and eager for the next installment, Linger.

Rating: 9/10