#next90challenge

[carotranquilo]

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Carito Tranquilo Essentials (@tranquilo_carito)

TRANQUILO HEMP OIL The best quality at the best price. IT’S THAT SIMPLE ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ #8_12 #next90challenge #pushplay #10pushupschallenge #moveyourbodyeveryday #gettingresults #burnbootcamp #garageworkout #musclesandmascara #FitnesStyles #momswithmuscles #getupandmove #sundayworkout #sweatitout #endorphinsmakeyourhappy #sweattherapy #lowerbody #workoutwear #noequipmentworkout #stayingontrack #strongback #corework #stabilityball #sideplank #noexcuse (at Overland Park, Kansas) https://www.instagram.com/p/CGU_7ARhzrK/?igshid=hx80bf64wwgv

[iamrockl]

⁣ .⁣ .⁣ .⁣ .⁣ .⁣ #livebydesign #love #beyond #meantformore #belive #motivatedmama #mindfulness #rising #next90challenge #goalseeker #lifecoach2women #personalgrowthanddevelopment #ceoofme #personaldevelopmentquotes #powerful #grit #cityoftoronto #challengeaccepted #decide #hopeful #upliftothers #starttoday #strive #because #goodness #motivation #toronto #goalslayer #madeformorejoy #madeformore via @hashtagexpert https://www.instagram.com/p/CDL8CSGlGI7/?igshid=lh6z3a6f21de

[anevenfocus]

I made a Target Run yesterday! It felt good! It felt good to be normal for a minute! It felt good to be in the aisles getting the things I needed. I used to go to the store and barely be grateful for what I got and now I’m just grateful to go! The past 49 days of quarantine has shown me worlds! I am already not the person I was when this started. Count the blessings! #anevenfocus #retailtherapy #target #shopping #charlottenc #mentalhealthmatters #next90challenge #gratitude https://www.instagram.com/p/B_ha846Fmpq/?igshid=6n59841jgb2i

[adavis0493]

I choose JOY! In times of uncertainty, let's choose JOY! What brings you joy? 😀 #next90challenge #joylist #bulletjournal https://www.instagram.com/p/B-p33h1DctB/?igshid=1xsbf6ckh8rx1

[staybeautiful1989]

CHOOSE JOY

[prov31lioness]

Finished #week1perspective of the #next90challenge with @msrachelhollis! This is exactly what I needed. Join me, I signed up through her profile. My favorite points in this lesson: 1. Is life happening to you or for you? 2. You can only control your attitude and your effort. #socialdistancing #quarantineface #quarantinednotisolated #coviddoesntstopme #makingthebestofthisseason #girlwashyourface #starttoday #gratitude #praiseJesus #thelordismylight #christianmom #christianparent #christianwife #christianfamily (at Saint Cloud, Florida) https://www.instagram.com/p/B-aSsAGBefLC8JAG6xHe6is9l-qOKaanJ07BME0/?igshid=1jbgi35wjbiw0

[meredithsreadingchallenge]

I’m so thankful to be writing this review right now. Now, I can share one of the best books I’ve read this year. I have to consider this for the No.1 spot unless another book comes around and steals the title.

For this review, I’m going to see if I can try a different format for writing. Please feel free to leave feedback for which review is best for you to read. Any is appreciated!

In 2019, I received the “His Dark Materials” series by Philip Pullman as a Christmas gift. I watched the movie earlier in the year, which I know is not what a reader is supposed to do, but I loved it. The story was interesting, and I fell in love with the main character and her journey across the world to save her best friend. I started reading the first book, “The Golden Compass” after Christmas because I was excited to start, and I finished the book on the second day of the new year. It counts, by the way!

Here is what I think of the book, even though it’s four months down the road. Remember, spoiler warning:

1.     What audience is the author writing for?

I think Pullman is writing for anyone that listens. The main character is about 11-13 years ago at the start of the book, so it does appeal to readers who are in that age range who likes mysteries, fantasy, and adventure. I would also argue that this book is for young adults, which is about 8th grade-12th grade, for there are vocabulary words that I had to look up a couple of times. The third audience would be adults because there are many parts in “The Golden Compass” that deal with mature thoughts, events, and feelings that are viewed from a child’s perspective. This book can appeal to any age group!

2.     Do I care about the characters?

If caring is defined as ‘I like the majority of the characters’, then yes. For someone that watched the movie with no idea about what was going on until a half-hour in, I enjoyed them. Lyra is my favorite, and her daemon, Pan. I like her because she’s at that age where innocence is stripped for reality, and I don’t mean that in a sick way. She goes through several major events that alter her perspective on the world, politics, religion, and most importantly, what family is to her. It was intriguing to read the story from her point of view because Pullman revealed to the reader her thoughts, feelings, and motivations with appropriate dialogue and exposition.

3.     Did it have a compelling plot?

Yes, YES, YES IT DOES! Excuse my enthusiasm, but here are some spoilers about the book.

It’s about Lyra Belacqua, a twelve/thirteen-year-old girl from Oxford who is forced to take a side in a complicated war. After stumbling on a proposal meeting for her uncle, Lord Asriel, she learns there are these mysterious particles called Dust, and it divides her home to two sides: those who want to explore it and those who despise it. She has no idea why people are touchy around the subject, but when kidnappers called ‘Gobblers’ abduct her best friend and the Master of Jordan college gives her a golden compass with symbols, she sets out on a journey to save her best friend.

This is all I’m going to reveal because the plot thickens and gets disturbing as she travels the world. Personally, I was hooked the minute I finished Chapter 1, and I even began to mutter comments to myself when I felt strongly about important plot points, especially when Lyra interacted with Ms. Coulter. Of course, I saw the movie and know Ms. Coulter’s role, but still! I felt so much more hatred for her than I did when I watched the movie. You don’t mess with that woman!

4.     Did any quotes strike me?

Yes, but this one is another spoiler. Please feel free to skip this question!

When Iorek Brynison says to Lyra, “Belacqua? No. You are Lyra Silvertongue” (Pullman, pp. 348), I wanted him to win the fight against the bear king so bad. You see, Lyra and Iorek share a special bond because she rescued his honor in exchange for his allegiance to save the abducted children.  He swore to protect her during the mission, but he also told her once that his kind cannot be tricked because they possess the talent to see pass deceit. However, because Lyra tricked the current bear king that she was Iorek’s daemon, Iorek respects her for proving him wrong. It makes me smile every time!

5.     What is the author’s voice like?

The author’s voice is quite interesting. Pullman takes the role of a narrator—an observer in the world of the book. The narrator knows what Lyra does and thinks, and sometimes they view other character’s stories as well as share their opinion. Based on the verb tense, the narrator is speaking about a time in history, but when reading the book, it almost feels like you’re right there, watching Lyra as she reads the Golden Compass (or aethalometer!).

6.     What is the author’s purpose?

I think that Pullman’s purpose was to demonstrate that religion has a strong influence on the minds of adults. As Lyra further investigates the Gobbler’s abduction patterns to save her friend, the Church’s opinion becomes prominent. It seems that those who work for the Church are against the investigations of Dust and have power over the distribution of information, so it becomes clear that Lord Asriel’s proposal is a threat to their cause. Pullman wanted to highlight this theme because religion is known throughout history to want to control the thoughts and beliefs of its followers, especially when it comes to new findings in science. Also, if science threatens an idea supported by the Church, then the world becomes divided on what is right and what is wrong.

7.     What did I learn from reading?

I learned that the world is very different from the eyes of a child. A child, like Lyra, can pick up on something wrong from time to time, but that doesn’t mean it’s a good thing. The more a child is exposed to the reality of adulthood—such as abduction, religion, deceit, and war—the world changes. Lyra was able to compose herself, to remain present in learning about the world around her, but it still came as a shock when she found out that the people who loved her would also not hesitate to put her in harm’s way. Lyra learned the importance of bonds with people who are not your family with the Gyptians and Iorek Brynison, and this also established her core belief of loyalty and justice.

8.     What rating did I give this book?

I gave this book 5 stars because it made me think, I wanted more, and I was intrigued by the themes!

9.     Who would I recommend this book to?

I would recommend this book to anyone. It has a little bit of every genre in it, like fantasy, science fiction (I would argue), general fiction, and adventure. Because of the vocabulary and themes, I think it would encourage young readers to investigate meanings they don’t understand and ask questions. While religion is known to be restricted, sometimes offended for free-thinking, this is what learning is all about. I would also recommend it because it’s a good story, just a little something to read when you want to explore a different world.

10.     When will I read the remaining books in the series?

Because of the pandemic, I am reading the next book, “The Subtle Knife,” earlier than I expected. The remaining books on my list for the year are somewhat similar, I want to include a little more diversity, besides just anxious about what happens to Lyra next!

Speaking of which, what am I currently reading?

· “IT” by Stephen King: You will not believe it, guys. I made it to the halfway point! I’ve completed 50% of the book, and it’s a lot to swallow. It’s certainly different than the recent adaptation (mind you, I haven’t watched that one all the way through, just snippets). Still, I think this is why I appreciate the book more. I love reading about the memories the losers club have when they return to Derry, and I’m always wondering what’s going to happen next, even if my eyes are tired.

·“Girl, Stop Apologizing” by Rachel Hollis: I haven’t continued to read much of this book because I still need to make a blog post for Excuse 5 and I’m currently working on their #Next90challenge course. When she started advertising for it and mentioned it was a free course, I thought it would be a good idea to try it out. So far, I’m having fun! I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the lessons. For now, thank you again for being patient. Excuse 5 will be created shortly after this review.

I finished three books since my last blog post, which were “The Fates Divide” by Veronica Roth, the novel version of the hit musical, “Dear Evan Hansen,” and “The Flight of Swans by Sarah McGuire. Currently, I am figuring out which book review to do next after the Golden Compass because I am behind. Using this month to focus on making posts is going to be beneficial now that I have this free time to do it. No more excuses!

 As always, please stay safe wherever you are and practice healthy habits.

* Photo Credit: this photo is a blurred version of the cover from the book. The cover is originally based on art by Iacopo Bruno (2017). Text is generated from FireAlpacca.

[carotranquilo]

TRANQUILO HEMP OIL The best quality at the best price. IT’S THAT SIMPLE ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ #8_12 #next90challenge #pushplay #10pushupschallenge #moveyourbodyeveryday #gettingresults #burnbootcamp #garageworkout #musclesandmascara #FitnesStyles #momswithmuscles #getupandmove #sundayworkout #sweatitout #endorphinsmakeyourhappy #sweattherapy #lowerbody #workoutwear #noequipmentworkout #stayingontrack #strongback #corework #stabilityball #sideplank #noexcuse (at Fernandina Beach, Florida) https://www.instagram.com/p/CFhxTqYlSFa/?igshid=dmw8csnx7gk2

[carotranquilo]

TRANQUILO HEMP OIL The best quality at the best price. IT’S THAT SIMPLE ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ #8_12 #balancedlife #findingbalance #lifeinbalance #thrivelife #smallvictories #shakeology #bigsweatysaturday #teamac #fitwife #nevermissamonday #nevada #30daystohealthyliving #next90challenge #pushplay #10pushupschallenge #moveyourbodyeveryday #203dispensary #gettingresults #burnbootcamp #garageworkout #fitgrandma #fitmomsrock #musclesandmascara #momswithmuscles #getupandmove #sundayworkout #sweatitout #endorphinsmakeyourhappy #sweattherapy (at Nichols Hills, Oklahoma) https://www.instagram.com/p/CDsVmtZFeUf/?igshid=mgjauetmn9ys

[carotranquilo]

TRANQUILO HEMP OIL The best quality at the best price. IT’S THAT SIMPLE ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ #8_12 #balancedlife #findingbalance #lifeinbalance #thrivelife #smallvictories #shakeology #bigsweatysaturday #teamac #fitwife #nevermissamonday #nevada #30daystohealthyliving #next90challenge #pushplay #10pushupschallenge #moveyourbodyeveryday #203dispensary #gettingresults #burnbootcamp #garageworkout #fitgrandma #fitmomsrock #musclesandmascara #momswithmuscles #getupandmove #sundayworkout #sweatitout #endorphinsmakeyourhappy #sweattherapy (at Illinois City, Illinois) https://www.instagram.com/p/CDSPPsUF2nT/?igshid=1ms7yyqx3wkj3

[carotranquilo]

TRANQUILO HEMP OIL The best quality at the best price. IT’S THAT SIMPLE ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ #8_12 #balancedlife #findingbalance #lifeinbalance #thrivelife #smallvictories #shakeology #bigsweatysaturday #teamac #fitwife #nevermissamonday #nevada #30daystohealthyliving #next90challenge #pushplay #10pushupschallenge #moveyourbodyeveryday #203dispensary #gettingresults #burnbootcamp #garageworkout #fitgrandma #fitmomsrock #musclesandmascara #momswithmuscles #getupandmove #sundayworkout #sweatitout #endorphinsmakeyourhappy #sweattherapy (at Glynn County, Georgia) https://www.instagram.com/p/CCfI0ZQh8U-/?igshid=i8p75y8v2azj

[carotranquilo]

TRANQUILO HEMP OIL The best quality at the best price. IT’S THAT SIMPLE ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ #8_12 #balancedlife #findingbalance #lifeinbalance #thrivelife #smallvictories #shakeology #bigsweatysaturday #teamac #fitwife #nevermissamonday #nevada #30daystohealthyliving #next90challenge #pushplay #10pushupschallenge #moveyourbodyeveryday #203dispensary #gettingresults #burnbootcamp #garageworkout #fitgrandma #fitmomsrock #musclesandmascara #momswithmuscles #getupandmove #sundayworkout #sweatitout #endorphinsmakeyourhappy #sweattherapy (at Fort Payne, Alabama) https://www.instagram.com/p/CAyHGLxhflG/?igshid=1pamtkzvsqshe

[carotranquilo]

TRANQUILO HEMP OIL The best quality at the best price. IT’S THAT SIMPLE ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ #8_12 #balancedlife #findingbalance #lifeinbalance #thrivelife #smallvictories #shakeology #bigsweatysaturday #teamac #fitwife #nevermissamonday #nevada #30daystohealthyliving #next90challenge #pushplay #10pushupschallenge #moveyourbodyeveryday #203dispensary #gettingresults #burnbootcamp #garageworkout #fitgrandma #fitmomsrock #musclesandmascara #momswithmuscles #getupandmove #sundayworkout #sweatitout #endorphinsmakeyourhappy #sweattherapy (at South Harpswell, Maine) https://www.instagram.com/p/CAThMa3BqhD/?igshid=i8m3a2ndmhl7

[carotranquilo]

TRANQUILO HEMP OIL The best quality at the best price. IT’S THAT SIMPLE ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ #8_12 #balancedlife #findingbalance #lifeinbalance #thrivelife #smallvictories #shakeology #bigsweatysaturday #teamac #fitwife #nevermissamonday #nevada #30daystohealthyliving #next90challenge #pushplay #10pushupschallenge #moveyourbodyeveryday #203dispensary #gettingresults #burnbootcamp #garageworkout #fitgrandma #fitmomsrock #musclesandmascara #momswithmuscles #getupandmove #sundayworkout #sweatitout #endorphinsmakeyourhappy #sweattherapy (at Saint Albans, Vermont) https://www.instagram.com/p/B_nnKhGJZXu/?igshid=11hdk5w3x4aq7

[anevenfocus]

How y’all doing? So weird fact about me: I LOVE Dr. Nowzarden and #my600lblife but here’s the kicker.... when I don’t feel like working out or my brain is telling me I can’t ... I turn on My 600lb Life and I get to it! I love working out to Dr. Now! I love working out with the success stories! I remember I’m not alone when I hear them talk about their trauma to the therapists and their loved ones. They give me a fight! I put that on the tv, my workout on my laptop, and Titanium by @davidguetta and @siamusic on repeat and I bust out whatever I have to do! Weird.... but it works! What’s your weird quirk? #anevenfocus #next90challenge #mentalhealth #mentalhealthday #protectyourpeace #drnowzaradan #my600lblife #bravo #weightlossjourney (at Charlotte, North Carolina) https://www.instagram.com/p/B_QgZGmlhhc/?igshid=1ww69e0wxd9en

[carotranquilo]

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Carito TRANQUILO (@carito_tranquilo)

TRANQUILO HEMP OIL The best quality at the best price. IT’S THAT SIMPLE ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ #8_12 #balancedlife #findingbalance #lifeinbalance #thrivelife #smallvictories #shakeology #bigsweatysaturday #teamac #fitwife #nevermissamonday #nevada #30daystohealthyliving #next90challenge #pushplay #10pushupschallenge #moveyourbodyeveryday #203dispensary #gettingresults #burnbootcamp #garageworkout #fitgrandma #fitmomsrock #musclesandmascara #momswithmuscles #getupandmove #sundayworkout #sweatitout #endorphinsmakeyourhappy #sweattherapy (at Lake Mead, Nevada) https://www.instagram.com/p/CBrbf1dFiYu/?igshid=vxmtlmvust3h