The Bitch Goddess Notebook | Book Talk

(Photo: amazon.co.uk)

The Bitch Goddess Notebook
Martha O’ Connor

“Set in a small-town high school in Illinois in 1988, three misfit girls join forces with devastating consequences. Rennie, the stunningly attractive straight-A student, finds herself way out of her depth when she embarks on an affair with her married teacher. Cherry builds a shrine to Princess Diana in her bedroom while nursing her hippy mother through her coke-fuelled rages. Amy, who tears up her cheerleader’s uniform while her drunken parents concentrate on presenting a façade of perfect family life to the outside world. Together the three girls form the Bitch Goddesses, a take-no-prisoners gang of fierce teenage rebellion. They swear to stick together, whatever life throws at them, until one night at Porter’s Point when something so horrific happens it shatters their friendship forever.” (Source: Goodreads)

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My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

I stayed up until 5 in the morning just to finish this book, and only had almost 5 hours of sleep before heading to work today. (Yes, today. As of this writing, my eyes are begging me to shut them off.)

You may wonder… why?

This book put a wonderfully-dangerous spell on me the moment I saw its title: The Bitch Goddess Notebook. Bitch. It definitely caught my attention.

You may wonder again… why?

We all have dark sides. I hold no exception to this, because even though I’m a of a bit goody-two shoes, I still have a little hint of “bitch” inside me. We all do. So when I saw this book on my favorite thrift bookstore, I immediately read the synopsis on the back and bought it without any hesitation.

The Bitch Goddess Notebook is a very edgy, dark and mature novel that only open-minded and non-judgmental people can love and understand. In this book, the stars of the show are three troubled girls who deal with sex, drugs, self-mutilation, swearing, and blood… lots and lots of blood. Martha O’Connor effortlessly tells the girls’ stories and how they dealt with their problems when they grew up. In the end, a shocking dark secret welcomed me, and all I could mutter was “Holy crap, that happened?!”

This book is really hard to put down. You think you’re okay with reading just one or two chapters in one sitting? Wrong. Every last page leaves me hungry for more. This is, actually, the best explanation on why I spent almost 5 hours reading it. Hahaha.

It’s an amazing novel. But, just like any other stuff, it has its flaws too (again, just my opinion).

I liked the story so much, but I think I got a little dizzy with all the POV changes. Now I’m reading it in first person POV, then it shifts to third person POV on the next. How Cherry’s story ended also left me a bit puzzled. Did she die or just pass out? I don’t know, maybe I’ll re-read it again. But just like one certain reader on Goodreads, I also didn’t understand that last scene with Cherry.

All in all, I like The Bitch Goddess Notebook. Yes, it’s dark and brutally honest, but it’s also very touching and sentimental. The story shows us the harsh reality of life— that no matter how many “perfectly good” people there are on the planet, there will always be the “outcasts” who are judged, misunderstood, and, oftentimes, just victims of their own problems. It shows that the world isn’t fair; it will never be. It shows the true meaning of friendship— no matter how troubled or messed up you are, true friends will never leave you behind. The Bitch Posse (their group) is actually a perfect example of a real friendship. I just love this novel, I can’t seem to shut up. Hehehe.

I suggest you read this book too. It’s a bit detailed (especially on all sex and self-mutilation parts), but it’s a really good story. Just like me, you’ll be transported back to 1988 and 2003 and actually feel that you’re with them during their struggles in life. For once, I felt like I was the fourth member of The Bitch Posse. Amazing things that a great novel can do to you, eh?

Okay, I’m gonna stop. Hope you didn’t get tired reading! 🙂

(The author, Martha O’Connor. Photo: geektyrant.com)

Happy blogging (and reading!)
Jane

Movie Talk: Maleficent

Posted by Jane Castandiello

My family and I watched Maleficent last week and well well…

… it was okay.

(Photo: weheartit.com)

Don’t get me wrong– I enjoyed it, but not enough to make a huge mark in my mind. So I won’t say it was great, but it was okay.

One of the few things I like about Maleficent is that it’s a different take on something so classic. It showed a whole new point-of-view, away from Disney’s usual fairytale storytelling. Here, we won’t see a damsel in distress who longs for true love’s kiss. Instead, here’s a kick-ass fairy who doesn’t believe in true love’s kiss… just because she was hurt and betrayed by it.

(Photo: usmagazine.com)

However, it failed to make me say “wow!” The story is, somehow, predictable. Right from the start, I already knew how the story would go. Plots like Maleficent’s always go that way. And the movie lacks something. I just can’t pinpoint what that is. Seems like the execution of the story is kinda weak.

Despite the tiny glitches, I applaud Maleficent for misleading me into thinking that her sidekick raven is Aurora’s true love’s kiss. I already knew that the prince won’t be able to revive the princess from her sleep spell, so I thought it’s gonna be the raven since he took care of her ever since she was a baby. The predictability of the movie vanished for a moment. Lol.

Anyway, I’m not really a movie critic, so don’t take my word for it. Watch the trailer first and head to a cinema near you!

Happy blogging (and watching)!
Jane

Of Judging And Books And People

Posted by Jane Castandiello

Before I went home this evening, I stopped by my favorite bargain bookshop nearby. As I was scanning the shelves for a potential read, something popped in my mind: is it really bad to judge a book by its cover?

(Well said… uhm, wait… Photo: booksonline.ie)

I know that statement shouldn’t be taken literally (lol), but it’s kinda fun to think about. For me, it’s not that bad. I mean, it’s not a crime if you brand a book based on how it looks like. That’s the first thing we see, and it’s a bit hard not to judge the cover. But, as we read the synopsis on the back, we realize that no matter how lavish or simple the cover is, what matters is its story and importance to our lives. 🙂

(How about books without covers? Lol. Photo: tmexpress.blogspot.com)

I think this thought is comparable to that of first meetings. When we see a person for the first time, we can’t help but to judge his/her appearance. Some instantly put stereotypes. But, as we get to know the person better and deeper, we understand why they look like that and why we shouldn’t care about their exterior.

At some point, we need to ditch our opinions regarding book (and people) covers. And when that time comes, that’s when we will truly enjoy what we’re reading (and who we’re with). 🙂 Do you agree?

Judging (Photo: blog.peauxeticexpressions.com)

This is just a random post. If we share the same perspective or if you disagree in some way, let me know by posting a comment! I’d love to hear from you. 😉

Happy blogging!
Jane

Movie Talk: My Sassy Girl

Posted by Jane Castandiello

If there’s one thing I wanna say, it’s this: “I will never get tired of watching (and crying because of) this movie.”

(Photo: fanpop.com)

My Sassy Girl became famous when I was a little kid… an elementary student who cared about nothing except for kids stuff. So I didn’t care back then. As I grew older, I kept hearing about this movie, about how awesome it is, about how it’s one of the greatest rom-com movies ever, etc. Still, I didn’t give a damn.

But, just last year, I decided to give it a try. A friend of mine gave me a copy of the movie, and I watched it as soon as I got home from the office. And there it started… one of the most magical 2 hours of my life.

Until now, I can’t pinpoint how the movie made me cry. Hahaha. I’m not a big fan of rom-coms since I tend to brand most comedies as “corny” (well at least the local ones), but this one’s different. I’ve watched and re-watched this movie many times, but it still pinches my heart and prompts tears to come out from my eyes. It makes me bipolar– at one scene I’m laughing so hard, and on the next one, I’m crying like a big baby. Haha.

(Photo: sharethefiles.com)

My Sassy Girl touches my heart and soul in a very unexplainable way. It has the ability to bring out mixed emotions. It has no elaborate sensual scene (unlike most romantic movies… just because that’s their “visual,” something that would entice the audience at first), and that’s one of the reasons why I love this movie. It just goes to show that a film doesn’t need to have long kissing scenes or steamy actions to pass itself as “good and romantic.”

That bond between Gyeon-woo and the girl is indescribable. It’s brutal, but it works. Theirs is a love story that started out weirdly, but ended up perfectly fine. Somehow the kind that makes girls swoon and sigh… wishing to make it their own. Haha.

(Photo: bncxe.org)

Plus, I sooooo love this quote from the movie:

Know what fate is? Building a bridge of chance for someone you love.

(Photo: sinekdoks.wordpress.com)

I’m not much of a believer of fate and destiny, but this movie makes me want to believe in them. 🙂

Job well done to the makers of My Sassy Girl! Only a handful of movies make great impact on me, and this film’s one of them. 🙂

Before you leave my blog (lol), listen to this song. Gah! ❤

Happy blogging (and watching)!
Jane

Reflection: A-Z Blogging Challenge

Posted by Jane Castandiello

The challenge’s already over? Whoa, one month goes by so fast!

I must say, participating in the A-Z Blogging Challenge is one of the highlights of my year. You see, I’m a really busy person. I blog only when I have time, and I don’t usually have enough time to do so… or at least that’s what thought.

Because of this challenge, I realized that…

I have time— I just have to know my priorities.
I don’t have to post super long entries because short, meaningful posts are enough (and also because the thought of writing lengthy posts discourages me from blogging).
With pre-scheduled topics or themes, I can blog regularly.
I can write a poem in less than five minutes. Hahaha!

Thank you, A-to-Z team, for letting me realize all these. I’m also grateful because I met other bloggers and received positive comments for my posts. 🙂 I’m looking forward to next year’s month-long challenge!

P.S.: Special thanks to Ate Gi of The End Justifies The Journey! Thank you for introducing me to this challenge. I owe my newfound energy to blog to you. Hehe. 🙂 And to all the bloggers I met because of this, thank you for visiting my site and reading my posts! Very much appreciated!

(Yes, thank YOU! Till next year!)

And oh, here’s a list of my A-Z Blogging Challenge entries. For easy navigation. Lol.

And by the way, this marks my 75th post! Hurrah! 😛

Happy blogging!
Jane

L is for (I) Love (You)

Posted by Jane Castandiello

I love you.

Simple words, big meaning. For lovers, the million-dollar question is: do they really need to say it all the time?

Comments vary. For some, the importance of love is not only defined by words, but by actions. But for mushy, hopeless-romantic people, this phrase is just as important as actions.

So… is it really important to say “I love you?”

For me, words don’t mean anything if they’re not accompanied with actions. Nowadays, people say those three sweet words, but they only say it because it’s required or out of habit. Sometimes, those words mean nothing.

But then again, all of us need to hear that phrase from time to time. Actions are great; yes, we see and feel how our loved ones care for us, but deep inside, we all yearn for that gooey-romantic line. Weird, right?

(Photo: lizpearson.com)

I guess the bottomline is this: love is not measured by words alone, but it would be nice to hear, too. It doesn’t mean that you’re not contented with the gestures and all; it’s just that, sometimes, you need verbal reassurance.

So to those who are still arguing about what’s more important, just stop. 🙂 Instead of stressing yourself out, just listen to this song (lol):

Btw, this is, obviously, an A-Z Blogging Challenge entry. 😛

Happy blogging (and loving yeah)!
Jane

Thank you and goodbye, kabarkada!

Posted by Jane Castandiello

Nowadays, I rarely turn the TV on and watch anything. As in. But when I was still a little kid— back in the days when people sought entertainment in various TV shows— I’d hop from one channel to another. Studio 23 was one of those networks. I remember knowing and enjoying lots of shows such as Wazzup Wazzup, Charmed, 7th Heaven, Myx, Barkada Nights, etc. because of Studio 23.

That’s why I’m a bit sad to hear the news that, after 17 years of being on air, Studio 23 will be signing off. TODAY. Oh geez. No more Studio 23 from now on. 😦

Here’s their super nice and quite-touching farewell video:

Paalam, kabarkada!

Queen of Duets: Dionne Warwick

Posted by Jane Castandiello

Actually, I feel really tired and sleepy right now, but I want to share my fascination with Dionne Warwick and the spell she has put on me with her sweet songs.

(Photo: german.fansshare.com)

I’ve known Dionne Warwick way before I hit puberty. I’m a big fan of “oldies but goodies” songs, so it’s no surprise to know that I’ve been listening to “I’ll Never Love This Way Again,” “I Say a Little Prayer” and “That’s What Friends Are For” since I was a little kid. But it wasn’t until I got reunited with her song “Heartbreaker” that I got hooked on Dionne’s irresistible charms. Since then, I always make sure that she’s in my office playlist every day. Her husky, dreamy voice gets me going whenever I feel sleepy while working. In addition, her songs are brilliant. The lyrics, rhythm, beat… everything!

Recently, I’ve developed an “undying” LSS (last song syndrome) with her duet hits. It started with “Reservations for Two,” which she recorded with Kashif. I’ve been in LSS mode with that song for months already, and surprisingly, I don’t get tired of hearing it over and over.

(“Reservations for Two” music video)

Yesterday, I discovered another Dionne Warwick duet— this time, with Jeffrey Osborne. I didn’t expect I’d be badly hooked.

(“Love Power” music video)

I thought that was the end of it, but earlier this afternoon while I was browsing through my playlist, I noticed a Dionne Warwick duet that I’ve never heard before. I decided to play it and, well, you can predict what happened next.

(“Friends in Love” with Johnny Mathis)

Of course, here’s a duet that I’ve known for so long. Until now, I still get kilig whenever I hear this:

(“It’s You” with Stevie Wonder)

I really love Dionne Warwick. I’ve adored her since I was little, and now that I’ve discovered her amazing duets with other artists, I think I just became her biggest fan. She’s amazing on her own, but when she sings with other equally-talented males of the 80s, heaven just goes straight in my ears and into my soul.

That’s why I was so devastated when I wasn’t able to attend her concert here in the Philippines last July 23. What’s more heartbreaking was the fact that she performed with Tavares, which is my favorite group too! It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I missed it. Too bad.

(Photo: http://manilaconcertscene.blogspot.com)

Oh well. It’s tragic for someone who dreams to see and hear her idol perform live, not just in Youtube or Grooveshark. I just wish she can still go back here and do another concert. Yes, she’s already 73 years old and probably not in her best shape anymore, but I’m still hoping.

Kudos, Dionne Warwick! Your songs (especially your duets) will always be in my heart… and in my playlist. 🙂

The impossible 2013 Christmas wish list

Posted by Jane Castandiello

Ahhh, December— the “most wonderful time of the year.” Christmas is just around the corner, and same as the past years, this season won’t be complete without gifts. Aside from long tables of fatty dishes and Christmas trees filled with garlands and colorful lights, gifts are very important during the holidays. In fact, some people already plan their wish list as early as September.

Well, I also have my own Christmas wish list, of course. But, unfortunately, I can’t share it with you guys. We have a Secret Santa activity in the office for our Christmas party, and they might find me out if I post my desired gifts here (though I think they already know and I’m not sure if someone from the office reads my blog lol).

Anyway, I still have another wish list called “The Impossible Christmas Wish List of 2013.”

Studio unit – Yes, my very own condo unit. I’ve always dreamed of having a tiny space that I can call my own, and I swear I will accomplish that before I turn 30 (haha). I want a clean and no-fuss place, with less furniture and not-so-wide walkway. Specifically, I want my little unit to look like this:
Cool, right?
Car – Though I’ve been dreaming of a Volkswagen beetle since I was a kid, it doesn’t matter if it’s brand new or not. All I want is a well-working car and the ability to drive. Yeah, I’m a frustrated driver. I’ve always wanted to have my hands on the steering wheel and just drive anywhere. But sadly, my dad still doesn’t want me to go to driving school… unless I already have enough money to pay for gas, toll gates, etc. Well it’s reasonable, but I’m still wishing for it next year. Hahaha. And oh, a hot pink beetle would be super cool to drive, like this one:
Source: theamazoeffect.blogspot.com
DSLR camera – I’m not aspiring to be a photographer, but it would be nice to have my own high-definition camera. No more low-quality shots of oh-so-awesome happenings/places! Plus, with a DSLR cam, my sisters and I can finally do that photoshoot that we’ve been planning for ages.
Independence – Wow, the only non-material wish here. Actually, this sums up my other wishes. Aaaand, it speaks for itself. I don’t think I need to elaborate this. 🙂

Obviously, the things listed here are sooooo impossible to have this year (or the next 2-3 years haha). I just thought I’d share it here. Nevertheless, I’m happy with what I have (and what I will be having!) right now. But hey, a little daydreaming doesn’t hurt, right?

Last: How about you? Do you have an impossible wish list? Come on, share it! I don’t bite. Hahaha. Happy holidays!

From the eyes of a child

Posted by Jane Castandiello

“I want to go back to believing in everything and knowing nothing at all.”
– Field of Innocence, Evanescence

While having dinner, my eight-year old niece suddenly asked me about my childhood. She asked me if I had many toys, about the games we played as kids, the techie stuff we had before, etc. While answering her cute questions, it suddenly hit me: I miss my childhood years.

(First birthday. Now I can’t run around in my undies anymore. Lol.)

We were all kids before, so I know I’m not the only one who wishes for their childhood back. Who wouldn’t? Life was so much simpler when we were young.

No work, just play.

No problems, just candies.

No life-changing decisions to make, just toys and cartoons.

No nothing, just everything.

As kids, we were always in a hurry to grow up. Back then, I always imagine cool stuff that only adults can do. The more people restricted me from doing something fun (e.g. play during nap time, watch TV at nine in the evening… you get it), the more I refused to enjoy kiddie things and wished to grow up in a snap. Back then, I thought being an adult would be so awesome— more awesome than being a little one. Well yes, being an adult is so awesome, but nothing beats the genuine bliss of being an innocent child.

(Third birthday. When Harrison Plaza Mall was still hip, I think. Lol.)

I don’t regret growing up, though. (Even if I do, I can’t do anything about it anymore. Lol.) I just miss being a carefree, jolly kid who can be as childish as she can be. C’mon, we all miss it. I’m not the only one, am I? Hahaha.