Taking a break!

It fills me with a bit of regret, but think I might be taking a long break from blogging. I thought about leaving it at my last blog post, but hate leaving things unfinished.

Basically I don't have the same passion for writing the blog. I have lots of ideas but no real interest/idea in adding to it. I've been feeling hugely overwhelmed. 

I write as I think, but then I need to check over grammar, find suitable pictures, upload, then promote on 4 different facebook groups, promote on twitter and facebook. Then I might need to communicate with bloggers (which I love doing), but sometimes it is a bit much for something that is just a hobby.

Before I leave, I thought I'd finish with some updates:

1. As part of my Popsugar Challenge, this month I've read 3 books - Lee Evans, Red Dust Road and I am Malala. I'm currently reading the Colour Purple and keen to finish it before the month is up.

2. I found out this week that I've got a job in  my chosen field - finally a year after continuous trying. I'm overjoyed! 

3. This month I've watched 15 films off my list, which included:

• Harvey (1950)
• Fracture (2007)
• Evil Dead II (1987)
• Love, Honour and Obey (2000)
• Shakespeare in Love (1998)
• Predators (2010)
• Garden State (2004)
• Spartacus (1960)
• The Thing (1982)
• Imagine me and you (2005)
• Men in Black (1997)
• Men in Black II (2002)
• Cold Weather (2010)
• Enough Said (2013)

4. I got my hair done. New colour and an inch off! I also love when she puts waves in my hair because I can never do it the same...

5. I visited Woodbridge with the family this week - having lunch and having a little drive around

Pulled pork is a favourite at the moment!

6. I went to Norwich and explored a little this week

My favourite picture from the visit. Hopefully go inside one day...

7. I ordered more DVDs and already started watching them day before yesterday.

8. Purchased 3 books at bargain of £1.50 (great for even a charity shop)

9. Got stuck into exercise - aiming to do at least 30 minutes of walking 5-6 days a week, and then 3 x 30 minute yoga a week and 3-5 times of doing tummy exercises. I'm noticing a real difference and it has even improved my energy levels.

10. Continuing on with driving lessons. I've learnt that through trying 3 other instructors none have taught me the basics. After about 2 and half years of learning (with 8 month break - and yes, I could have had a baby in that time), I still had never been shown a parallel park until last week. I'm still nervous, but feel I'm learning to do things on my own more instead of continuously waiting for my instructor to confirm what I should do.

Anyway, that is me. I'm done. Goodbye for now, but I think boredom will bring me back to entertain you with more positive, funny and interesting posts. I just know I need a break. I hope you've enjoyed reading! 

February Films

One of my big goals for the year is to watch more films; more specifically films off my list. For details of other goals, and clues of other posts you can see the post here. I love hearing about films - new and old, so thought it would be fun to go through the films I watched this month like I did last month. See here to read about the 13 films I managed to watch last month.

This month has seen me watch a further 15 films. This time it had all the films on my elusive list of films I wish to see before I die. So here goes, I will stop babbling on...

1. Young and Innocent (1937) 

This film taught me that not all Hitchcock films are good! I have seen one film of Hitchcock's before which sent me to sleep, and again it happened. I tried twice to watch this, and on the final time I fell asleep through it (during the day may I add?). All I could really gather was a man claiming to be "innocent" and a lady wanting to help him find his coat to prove it.
Rating: 3/10 - It has that Hollywood style film to it, but I'd probably enjoy watching paint dry more than this!

2. The Wrong Man (1956)

Described as a docudrama, this film is much more the Hitchcock I was used to. This was a gripping story beginning with Hitchcock himself saying this was stranger than most films he's made despite being a true story. From there, I was intrigued.
Rating: 8/10 - I'd recommend to anyone who wants to hear of an interesting tale of mistaken identity.

3. Hairspray (1988)

Having seen the most recent film about two or three years ago, I felt I needed to see the original. I really enjoyed it, which is strange as I hate musicals on the most part. It was a big shock to enjoy it, but it didn't only have a fun plot of a girl's love for dance, interest in boys and friendship, but it also covered that of racism.
Rating: 7/10 - Great film, but think the newer version was just as good. I liked seeing a younger Ricki Lake (didn't know about her pre-talk-show host).

4. Days of Heaven (1978)

I did find the film interesting, but it ended with me thinking: "Is that it?" I always thought there would be a point to it. I didn't feel like there was a proper beginning, middle and end to it all.
Rating: 5/10 - It follows the story of a couple, who pretend to be brother and sister, and their journey to get richer. It is an intriguing tale and can be seen on Netflix, but didn't seem to be a real climax to the film.

5. Sense and Sensibility (1995)

It was a typical romantic story set in that era. Period dramas don't tend to be my thing. It was okay, but not for me. I think it's definitely an interesting story of contrasting sister as they look for love.
Rating: 6.5/10 - I think it's something that many people will enjoy watching.

6. The Verdict (1982)

Once the trial started, I was hooked. It follows an alcoholic lawyer determined to win a case that everyone thinks he should have settled out of court. Follow the journey of this case as he battles to win.
Rating: 8/10 - A gripping story and well-worth a watch!

7. What's Eating Gilbert Grape? (1993)

Simply wonderful! I dare you to watch this and not be touched in some way. It tells the story of Gilbert and his life with his family in a very small town. The film follows Gilbert and how his life changes once he meets free-spirited, Becky.
Rating: 9/10 - I loved this film and feel like it's the type of film you want to encourage everyone to watch

8. Very Bad Things (1998)

It rivals Cheap Thrills (from my last monthly review) for messed up, but not near as crazy. It could also be described as a bit like the Hangover saga but darker and like they're trying too hard to be funny. Similar to Hangover, it follows a stag night and how wrong it can really go. It has good actors, but it's just not that great. Cameron Diaz was the best part of the film!
Rating: 5/10 - It's okay, but it seems like a story played out before. I know Hangover same after this, but this wasn't near as good!

9. Mona Lisa (1986)

It's very rare to see a gripping British film, but this had it. Freshly released from prison, this follows George as he gets his first job driving a high-class call girl,Simone from client to client. It has action, drama and comedy; a great film if you want to watch something that is easy to follow, but not too predictable.
Rating: 7/10 - An interesting insight into a life of crime, and a journey as George tries to get on the straight and narrow.

10. Tootsie (1982)

Before my favourite childhood film, Mrs Doubtfire, there was Tootsie! It has a similar concept of a straight man dressing as a woman. When Michael can't get any acting work as a man, he auditions as a woman under the name "Dorothy Michaels". Follow the great comedy as he struggles to hide his identity from the actors, crew and of course his friends.
Rating: 10/10 - I loved it and would happily watch it again and again. A true comedy classic!

11. My Beautiful Laundrette (1985)

I just didn't take to the story. I thought it would be similar in comedy style as East is East, but was bored and couldn't tell you what happened.
Rating: 4/10 - Follows the story of an Asian briton who plans to make a success from his laundrette. The concept of film is interesting, but just didn't take to the plot.

12. Moonrise Kingdom (2012)

Watching this made me think - "Gosh 2012 was 5 years ago!" I know that wasn't the point, but it still feels like one or two years ago. Onto the film, I couldn't work out if I was too old to watch it. It followed kids, who reminded me a bit of the Addams family as they were strange. I enjoyed it and couldn't help, but watch.
Rating: 7/10 - Following a boy who goes missing while camping with rest of cubs (or scouts - called something else that I forget like ferrets?), and although it should be sad as the adults soon discover he's an orphan, it is only funny and slightly bizarre.

13. Wild hearts can't be broken (1991)

A simply inspiring true story of determination! A girl who rebels and is kicked out by her aunt, and then wishes to be a diving girl. Watch her as she works hard to achieve her dreams, and falls in love along the way.
Rating: 8/10 - February wasn't the best of months, but if you're looking for a pick-me-up this might be for you.

14. Valley of the Dolls (1967)

This film is an interesting look into how show business can affect different women. Sorry I don't have more to say...
Rating: 6/10 - Valley of the Dolls is very intriguing with it's coverage of illness, romance and drugs. I just wasn't that impressed. It was a good film, but nothing to rave about.

15. Beyond  the Valley of the Dolls (1970)

I've apparently seen this before, but I don't remember so watched it again. Despite the name it isn't a sequel to the Valley of the Dolls. However it does cover similar issues relating to show business. It had me hooked, and dare you to watch this and not have one of the songs stuck in your head. I was humming along the rest of the day!
Rating: 8/10 - I loved this film and was a great way to end the month. Without giving too much away, it was cheerful, sexy, unpredictable and gritty. I also loved the style and fashions of the era.

I thought about including TV programmes I have been watching too, but they can probably be covered in this paragraph alone. I've continued to watch episodes of That 70s Show, finished series gripping drama, River and started watching black (gory) comedy Santa Clarita Diet.

Have you seen any of these films? What films have you recently been watching. I'd love to hear all about it!

Goal progress in January

I thought it might fun to include how I'm getting on with my goals. When I've read the progress of others in fitness or other goals, I find it highly motivating. Let me know what you think as I might do them quarterly rather than monthly.

1. Passing my driving test

The progress is there. I have already paid for 10 hours, and done 6 hours of driving lessons. I am making great progress. I've noticed more confidence leaving the roundabout and knowing when to go, which is my ultimate fear. I really hope to keep progressing. It is great since it's the first time even been driven around Ipswich. However also noticed new instructors have different priorities and notice new things you're bad at.

2. Go abroad

I really hope to do this, but this is not a priority just yet. I think I may visit a friend who lives in Norway now, but then again it is more costly to visit than to get there. Seen flights for under £100 return but know it is expensive to buy and do things!

3. See at least 3 gigs this year

I've looked a little, but not seen much I fancy. I'm booked to see comedian, Jon Richardson in September and had hoped to see Ed Sheeran. Unfortunately I couldn't get tickets, but hopeful I will think of other performers to see.

4. Start yoga again

I've looked into local classes, but am nervous to start any alone. I have also tried looking at few youtube videos. For anyone else wanting to try yoga, I noticed a fab post published by Saccharine-soul. I've actually tested a few of the routines suggested here. Although I'm not a beginner, I'm not confident enough to move onto intermediate or more advanced.

5. Do a charity challenge

I've enquired about doing the Great Wall of China in aid of the British Red Cross. I love how you will help rebuild it too. However I know the work it took to fundraise for climbing Kilimanjaro and had the resources there: supportive work colleagues, uni support, friends to attend events, and just don't  have that locally.

I'm also considering trying an abseil again. I've seen an abseil for the local hospital which sounds so fun. Anyone who knows me will know how gutted I was to have let down a favourite charity, when I couldn't take on the 160ft abseil off forth rail bridge. This was despite doing a 10,000 ft skydive, a bungee jump and climbing Kilimanjaro in the past. I feel doing this will really boost my confidence again. It will also be something fantastic to really look forward to. I fear I may have an anxiety attack again, but doesn't feature my ultimate fear of bridges.

6. Pursue creative hobbies

I've gone to both a jewellery making and scrapbooking classes. From this, I'm unsure I will try this again as the necklace broke to pieces and didn't make it to feature in this post. I've done scrapbooking before and learnt some new techniques, and would love to go again.

I'm proud that I actually stitched the gold circle...

I still want to learn to make bracelets, but going to look at Youtube to learn that one!

7. Lose weight

I'm really happy with my progress in this. I've had compliments from family members on the look of my skin and how much healthier I look, which is obviously a huge confidence boost. Most of all, I love the boost to my energy and how much happier this has had me.

This has only been from small steps - walking at least 30 minutes a day, drinking lots of water (admittedly I did this well already), adjusting my attitude to portion sizes and actually eating more fruit/veg. Instead of thinking, "oh, I've got a few more of these I might as well finish", I just stop eating when I'm full. Instead of cutting out sweets or chocolate, I eat what I fancy and then don't crave it as much. I've even started craving things like crisps or cheese, which is so unlike me! 

8. See more films from my list

If you like my facebook page, you will have seen that I received lots of DVDs and watched them. Please refer to the review on the films I watched here. This month, I've seen 12 off my list and 13 in all. I hope I can beat this in February as I've watched more DVDs than my usual Netflix.

9. See friends more

There are no plans yet, but this is important to me with many friends living in Scotland. With the closest friend being about 400 miles away, it is essential and especially with friends getting married, having babies and getting promotions, not seeing them as often can feel like missing out.

10. Walk dogs more

I have been walking the dogs on almost every day off, and actively making the effort to spend more time with them.Cuddles are the best!

11. Do more in spare time

This one is still very much in progress. At the moment, my spare time consists of walking dogs, writing for this blog, promoting the blog, reading and anything that might come up. That doesn't sound hugely exciting, but definitely been feeling more positive.

12. Keep writing

I've not looked into alternative ways to write outside of this blog, but definitely want to. I'm really not sure where to begin on that one!

13. Read more

Already I feel like I'm making great progress on this. Most times I read no more than 4 or 5 books in a year. This month alone, I've already read 6 books. Please refer to this post about the books I've read here. I'm looking forward to reading more as part of the Popsugar challenge as discussed here.

How has your January been going? Any tips for me to continue to tick off my goals this year?

Recently watched films

I've been watching a lot of films over the last month, and thought it would be fun to share. Instead of about 12 different reviews, I thought I'd combine it in one post. I find it easier to sum them up than to discuss one particular film.

If you like the facebook page, and if not click here (*shameless plug*), you will have noticed I purchased heaps of DVDS. That is partly where these reviews come from:

1. Dam Busters (1955)
I honestly couldn't tell you one small detail of what happened. It wasn't my thing and felt like watching paint dry. I was surprised as I usually like learning more about WW2, and with it being scored  at 7.4/10 on IMDb, I was confident I'd enjoy it.
My rating: 2/10 - I just couldn't take to it, but it is a true story and something worth knowing more. I strongly believe WW2 must never be forgotten!

2. Chariots of Fire (1981)
It felt a bit overrated. I couldn't connect with the characters or any of the story. It was another true story which I thought might be interesting. It's set after WW1 in 1924 where Brits, Harold Abrahams and Eric Liddell are natural athletes, and it shows how their lives compare. I do feel like I might be alone in my disappointment of the film as it received 4 oscars, 14 other awards and 19 nominations.
My rating: 3/10 - I knew part of what was happening, and the story itself is interesting. I just don't feel it came across well in the film

3. Cheap Thrills (2013)
This was safely one of the most fucked up (that is really the only word to sum it up - sorry if the swearing offends) films I've seen, and I've watched messed-up films from the likes of Lars Von Trier. I mean I've watched Antichrist, and didn't think I could be easily shocked after that! It centres around two friends, who come across a couple in a bar who make bets for them to do some crazy stuff. It starts off tame with whoever drinks the shot, get $50 and leads to so much worse. One of the worst including betting $15,000 to chop off a pinky finger. That's not even the end of that finger, it comes to haunt twice more with some bizarre bets and turn of events.
My rating: 7/10 - It was really messed up, but in fairness I couldn't stop watching this black comedy. I wouldn't watch it again, and not sure I'd watch it again, but it was definitely memorable. I also realised I wouldn't do much for a bet!

4. Elizabeth (1998)
This era of history has always fascinated me. From the reign of Henry VIII to that of his children. It was one of my favourite eras to learn in history. Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived - I can never forget that! Onto the film...I find it hard to stay focused on period dramas, but I loved this. I can't think what I enjoyed most, but it featured Elizabeth as the longest reigning of her siblings, her struggles in power and looking for suitors as queen. I was hooked throughout.
My rating: 9/10 - This was amazing, and think most would enjoy watching this. I definitely recommend watching this!

5. Dr. No (1962)
Released 2 years before my mum was born, I wasn't sure whether I'd appreciate it. I'm not huge on action, so I found this hard to follow at times, but love that era of films - the colour, fashions and almost "put-on" voices (not sure how to describe it). However it was easy viewing, and I can now understand how Sean Connery might be a favourite Bond actor.
My rating: 7/10 - Another film I'd recommend watching! It's a great combination of action, drama and romance.

6. Crazy Beautiful (2001)
It was a teen rom-com, which made me feel like I was just a couple of years too old to watch! That being said, I found it easy to follow and would compare it in some ways to a teenage Silver Linings Playbook. I like how Nicole (Kirsten Dunst) and Carlos (Jay Hernandez) characters have completely different lives with different problems and ambitions. It is all about how they cross paths, and their lives are changed forever. Wild child, Nicole helps Carlos fly a plane for the first time, but how will Carlos change Nicole's outlook to life?
My rating: 8/10 - I really enjoyed watching this, but not sure whether I'd necessarily recommend it. You will know from reading my review if it's a story that appeals to you.

7. Frankenstein (1931)
I wanted to watch this, as I couldn't connect to the book. Usually when this happens, it helps me understand and picture what is going on better. It helped when I struggled to read 1984. However this didn't work. It seemed out-dated and too bizarre to keep me interested. The only thing that I enjoyed was that it was short. How many films are a mere 71 minutes? I also like the way it is filmed in terms of black and white, makeup and costume.
My rating: 3/10 - It is worth watching as it is a true classic, but I just didn't take to it.

8. The Bride of Frankenstein (1935)
Unlike most sequels, I like this much more. I found it much easier to follow. I even found the housemaid woman to be funny to watch. When Frankenstein's monster says "friend, lady friend" it also reminded me of Inbetweeners, and couldn't stop laughing.
My rating: 4/10 - I did enjoy this more to the prequel, but it was still not my favourite.

9. Brown Sugar (2002)
Reviewers have compared this to When Harry met Sally. I can see why because it follows the premise of two friends (except more childhood friends), who come to consider a relationship together. Once compared, I didn't think it would be as good as the rom-com classic, but I still loved it. It shows true love, friendship, comedy and links with the love of music. With a combined love for hip-hop, the story of Andre and Sidney is interesting to follow.
My rating:  8/10 - I'd recommend to anyone who loves a good rom-com.

10. Children of the Corn (1984)
I was bored with this. I found it so over-acted that I found it very hard to keep interested.
My rating: 5/10 - Not the worst film I've seen, but not the best either!

11. The Departed (2006)
I always get confused with Matt Damon and Leo Dicaprio, so if like me, you might find it harder to follow...otherwise I think it was really well acted. It's another film Leo should have got an oscar for! I loved how it was a true story, and enjoyed watching this thriller.
My rating: 7.5/10 - I'd definitely recommend this film as it explores the story of a mole in the mob and mole in the police force.

12. Death to Smoochy (2002)
What can I say? Robin William stars, I can never fault a film that he's in. Even One Hour Photo was great in my eyes! It follows the story of two rival children entertainers, some comedy and some action.
My rating: 7/10 - I recommend this as it's easy viewing, and unlike many comedies it's not completely predictable in plot.

13. East is East (1999)
My mum said it was one of her favourite films, and I watched it again. I watched it when I was in school (not sure when), and didn't remember much but it was fun to watch. It has the elements of every good genre - action, growing-age, comedy, romance, drama. My favourite scene had to be towards the end, when the art project is revealed. It is funny but cover hard-hitting issues of living around racism and conflicting cultures.
My rating: 9/10 - I think this is great for anyone to watch. It shows how it is to grow up in Britain with Pakistani heritage. You learn a lot about the traditions followed by lots of comedy as it's set in Salford. I also just found out they did a sequel - West is West, which I will need to watch too.

Lots of great and not so great films over the past month - what films have you seen recently? I want to see Trainspotting 2 and more films from my list.

2017 Reading Challenge & Goal Progress

Just to remind you quickly of my new year resolutions, because I'm not too sure whether I went too deeply into it, while mentioning it in previous posts on 10 things and even more recently on my year review. Here they are:

1. Pass driving test and get car - If I don't achieve much this year, and only do this I will be happy. I've been trying since October 2014. There are much more job opportunities and extra independence with driving! I have only stopped to concentrate on theory test, and most recently while unemployed I just couldn't. I've already started with a new driving instructor, so confident I can achieve this.

2. Go abroad
3. See at least 3 gigs this year
4. Start yoga again
5. Do a charity challenge
6. Pursue creative hobbies
7. Lose weight
8. See more films from my list - I've bought more DVDs and waiting for them to arrive. For more info, read this post here, need I say more!

9. See friends more
10. Walk dogs more
11. Do more in spare time
12. Keep writing
13. Read more - This will be conquered with the following reading challenge.

I've not included a few more personal ones because I'm trying to limit what I put out there a bit more. This blog is not the Jodie blog despite the name. It is about topics of lifestyle and just general opinions. I do occasionally write about fun things I've done such as a recent subcrawl and reviews on things I love.

With all this in mind, I've taken up the Popsugar Reading Challenge 2017. I struggle to read even a few books in the year, which is disappointing. I used to love reading so much at school. I loved when you dressed up as your favourite character from a book at school, used to read whole book series at a time, and I just can't wait to get going with the challenge. Here is a picture that sums up what is involved:

I'm now a much slower reader, and I think I will struggle to do the advanced ones, but am keen to get started with the rest of the challenge. I'm already reading Audrey Hepburn: An Elegant Spirit by son, Sean Hepburn Ferrer. This covers point 32: a book about an interesting woman. Here are more I think I will achieve:

2. A book that has been on your TBR list for way too long

I don't really have a TBR list, as I tend to get books as I want them, ask for them for birthdays/Christmasses. However, I always wanted to read more classic books, so picked a classic book at random, which happened to be Jane Eyre. I've already purchased this.

3. A book of letters

Not sure whether this is an entire book of letters, but the Colour Purple has been suggested to me. I'm keen to hear more suggestions!

4. An audiobook

My Dad has started listening to audiobook more, and suggested reading Fool me once by Harlan Coben.

6. A book with one of the four seasons in the title

I've come across the book, Wintersong by S. Jae-Jones.

7. A book that is a story within a story

This was another recommended book and sounds amazing: Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell.

8. A book with multiple authors

Being a big fan of Pretty Little Liars, I had to try this book by star, Shay Mitchell; I always find it interesting when celebrities try other things whether it's singing, dancing or just anything - I'm noisy! I can't wait to hear how the book: Bliss by Shay Mitchell and her friend, Michaela Blaney measures up.

10. A book with a cat on the cover

This one was an easy choice for me as it is one in my recent wishlist. I heard about it recently on the news: A Streetcat named Bob: how one man and his cat found hope on the streets by James Bowen.

11. A book by an author who uses a pseudonym

I did not know this, but J.K Rowling used the pseudonym of Robert Galbraith for a few books. I've always wanted to read one of her books as she is a writer I greatly admire. Although I've watched many documentaries about how she shot to fame with the Harry Potter series, I never took to reading the first book as a child and haven't tried since (shocker!). Therefore, I'm going to try The Cuckoo's Calling.

12. A bestseller from a genre you don't normally read

I don't usually take to sci-fi (either in terms of film or books), but the Martian by Andy Weir sounds like a fascinating story. I believe it is also a film too.

13. A book by or about a person has a disability

The Diving Bell and the Butterfly by Jean-Dominique Bauby is an inspiring story which is also a movie. This extract from Amazon made me want to know more: "'Locked-in syndrome: paralysed from head to toe, the patient, his mind intact, is imprisoned inside his on body, unable to speak or move. In my case, blinking my left eyelid is my only means of communication.' In December 1995, Jean-Dominique Bauby, editor-in-chief of French 'Elle' and the father of two young children suffered a massive stroke and found himself paralysed and speechless, but entirely conscious, trapped by what doctors call 'locked-in syndrome'."

14. A book involving travel

You can probably tell by the title that this one ticks the box: The Vacationers by Emma Straub.

16. A book that's published in 2017

I found this hard to find out since the new year has just began, but looked up ones due to come out. I'm going to try Never let you go by Chevy Stevens.

19. A book about food

I've heard so much about Lean in 15 by Joe Wicks. I would love to be able to cook, but don't have the patience or skill, so help with making quick healthy meals  might be what I need. I also like the exercise element of it too.

22. A steampunk novel

In honesty, I didn't know what steampunk was and had to look it up here for ideas. This is where I chose the classic: Frankenstein by Mary Shelley. I've bought this one and just waiting for it to be delivered.

25. A book I loved as a child

I used to read mostly Jacqueline Wilson books. I can't think of specific favourites, so when repurchasing I chose the cheapest I could find: Girls under pressure. It seems to be sold out from music magpie, where I got it!

26. A book by an author from a country you've never visited

This was a lot easier than it might have been for most, as I've only seen a few European cities and Tanzania. I  have chosen to buy Nemesis by norwegian writer, Jo Nesbo.

27. A book with a title that's a character's name

Hausfrau is the main character of Hausfrau by Jill Alexander Essbaum.

33. A book set in two different time periods

This one was obvious, but I didn't see it (luckily this was recommended to me). I've seen the film (and loved it), but not got to the book yet: The time traveller's wife by Audrey Niffenegger.

36. A book written by someone you admire

You can't help but admire this lady. I remember hearing about this book, but shameful, I know very little about her journey, and little about her bravery. However I need to read this and share with you: I am Malala by Malala Yousafzai. I can't wait for my book to arrive!

37. A book that's becoming a movie in 2017

Again I needed to look this up, and there was a great selection. However I felt I'd most enjoy reading: Live by night by Dennis Lehave.

That's 21 ideas out of 40. Not bad for just looking through it properly yesterday. I'd love to hear if you have any ideas for the categories specifically:

• A book from a non-human perspective
• A book with a month or day of the week in the title
• A book with a red spine
• A book set around a holiday other than Christmas

Hope you enjoyed the post, and it encouraged you to get involved in this reading challenge and goals in the new year. If you have any tips for the book challenge, or help achieving my new year's resolutions, I'd be grateful to hear them!