The Twilight Saga by Stephanie Meyer

[Deavlynn]

So I finally decided to jump on the Stephanie Meyer bandwagon this weekend and I am so glad I did! Has anyone else started the Twilight series? I couldn't put it down from page one. I read the first 1500 pages or so in a span of about 8 hours this weekend - taking a break only to go out and buy the next three in the series. She's incredible.

I usually shy away from vampire stories, which is why I didn't pick these up before, but these aren't the typical vampire types which makes the whole thing really interesting. It's supposed to be adolescent literature, but I've decided that this biggest difference between adult fiction and teen fiction is the age of the characters. So far as I am concerned, these are great for adults too.

Anyway, I was just wondering if I was the only SK lover to discover this incredible bit of fiction. If you haven't found them yet, I highly recommend.

[mstay]

Nope. You're definitely not the only one. I thought they were great too. I am just starting her newest - Breaking Dawn. I'm very excited to read it.:smile2:

[MrsSmeej]

I took my niece to the Breaking Dawn release party on 2 August at our local Barnes and Noble for her birthday... It was hysterical. :biggrin2: Literally hundreds of young women, many in ball gowns or vampire make-up and I Love Edward or I Love Jake tee-shirts crowded into the aisles. The guys were the funniest; they all looked like they could use some fresh air... Bewildered adults were stepping cautiously over the youngsters sprawled across whole sections of the store in little reading groups. Every once in awhile the fan girls would let out this collective squeal as the countdown to midnight was announced. :biggrin2: They started lining them up at about 11:00 PM. I brought a folding chair and fielded the envious glances of the other "over forty" crowd. We bought two copies and I finished mine two days ago...

I won't spoil the ending of the series for you guys... I'll just say that I enjoyed it too. A nice light, quick read. Ms. Meyers has also released an "adult" novel called Host that was equally enjoyable.

[Deavlynn]

Thanks for the tip MrsSmeej. I will be sure to pick up Host.

I am about 1/3 of the way through Eclipse right now and I am regretting that I don't have enough hours to read the rest - at least not until the weekend.

The party sounds like a lot of fun. I really need to find out about these things earlier. I would have totally shown up with an "I love Jake and Edward Equally" T-shirt. lol. Honestly, how do you choose? I can't bring myself to take sides.

[racheypen80]

I took my niece to the Breaking Dawn release party on 2 August at our local Barnes and Noble for her birthday... It was hysterical. :biggrin2: Literally hundreds of young women, many in ball gowns or vampire make-up and I Love Edward or I Love Jake tee-shirts crowded into the aisles. The guys were the funniest; they all looked like they could use some fresh air... Bewildered adults were stepping cautiously over the youngsters sprawled across whole sections of the store in little reading groups. Every once in awhile the fan girls would let out this collective squeal as the countdown to midnight was announced. :biggrin2: They started lining them up at about 11:00 PM. I brought a folding chair and fielded the envious glances of the other "over forty" crowd. We bought two copies and I finished mine two days ago...

I won't spoil the ending of the series for you guys... I'll just say that I enjoyed it too. A nice light, quick read. Ms. Meyers has also released an "adult" novel called Host that was equally enjoyable.

I went to a similar party with my younger sister and had a blast. We did a scavenger hunt, arts & crafts, and had a bunch of games. I love the Twilight series and can't wait for the movie- I'm gonna have to go to the midnight show for that too.

[Spideyman]

I haven't read any of these books, but from what I have read here, I think I'll pick one up. Thank you!

[Nornee]

I love these books too! Still have to pick up the 3rd and new one. I started out reading my teenage daughter's Twilight and have been hooked since!
Thanks for the heads up on Host...I'll have to find that one too!

[Haunted]

i took my niece to the breaking dawn release party on 2 august at our local barnes and noble for her birthday... It was hysterical. :biggrin2: Literally hundreds of young women, many in ball gowns or vampire make-up and i love edward or i love jake tee-shirts crowded into the aisles. The guys were the funniest; they all looked like they could use some fresh air... Bewildered adults were stepping cautiously over the youngsters sprawled across whole sections of the store in little reading groups. Every once in awhile the fan girls would let out this collective squeal as the countdown to midnight was announced. :biggrin2: They started lining them up at about 11:00 pm. I brought a folding chair and fielded the envious glances of the other "over forty" crowd. We bought two copies and i finished mine two days ago...

I won't spoil the ending of the series for you guys... I'll just say that i enjoyed it too. A nice light, quick read. Ms. Meyers has also released an "adult" novel called host that was equally enjoyable.

are you saying the series is over????????

[MrsSmeej]

According to my niece - a true fan girl if ever there was one - Ms. Meyers is planning on (or in the midst of) writing a sort of prequel to the series. The same story, only told from Edward's point of view, focusing on when he was away from Bella... Don't hold me to this though.

[mstay]

I am half way through Breaking Dawn and it is very interesting! I look forward to a prequel if there is one. Does anyone know if there will be more books that go along with The Host? Like a series?

[racheypen80]

I don't know about a Host series, but I read that Stephenie Meyer was going to continue the Twilight Series, but Breaking Dawn would be the last book told from Bella's point of view. You can read the first chapter of Midnight Sun- the story of Twilight told from Edward's point of view here: http://www.stepheniemeyer.com/midnightsun.html

[the great kilted one]

I'm going to be a high school English teacher and I figure I'll have to pick up that series at one point or another, but I actually hate reading romantic plots. Call me cold, but I've never enjoyed that sort of thing. I like gritty, hard, down to earth life with plenty of gruesome bits. Probably why I'm such a fan of Sai King.

Anyways, I've had parts of this book highlighted and proposed to me and it sounds sappy as all get out. Has it been mis-represented? Do you think the book has enough other plot (sans love story) to make me enjoy it?

I have a huge reading list (ever-growing) so I'm a little picky about what gets added to it.

Help :(

[mstay]

The great kilted one, if you really hate romantic plots you probably won't like it much. There's plenty of gruesome bits and some down to earth stuff but there's also plenty of teen-age angst and mushy love story sappy stuff. It's a great story though!

[the great kilted one]

The great kilted one, if you really hate romantic plots you probably won't like it much. There's plenty of gruesome bits and some down to earth stuff but there's also plenty of teen-age angst and mushy love story sappy stuff. It's a great story though!

That's actually what I gathered for it, but you never want to assume, you know? Thank you so much. That helps. Maybe I'll check it out from a library a few years from now, when I'm teaching and have to hear a thousand book reports on it.

[Deavlynn]

I'm going to be a high school English teacher and I figure I'll have to pick up that series at one point or another, but I actually hate reading romantic plots. Call me cold, but I've never enjoyed that sort of thing. I like gritty, hard, down to earth life with plenty of gruesome bits. Probably why I'm such a fan of Sai King.

Anyways, I've had parts of this book highlighted and proposed to me and it sounds sappy as all get out. Has it been mis-represented? Do you think the book has enough other plot (sans love story) to make me enjoy it?

I have a huge reading list (ever-growing) so I'm a little picky about what gets added to it.

Help :(

I'm not into sappy stuff either, but I didn't find this to be sappy at all.

I can see why people would say that - because there is definitely a romance (or two), but the main character isn't really a romantic and it's all from her point of view so it's kind of colored by her attitude about love.

These books have a ton of strong themes that break out of the normal romance line, like conflicting images of right and wrong, and what it really means to give selflessly. It brings up a lot of really good ethical questions - and of course has some really good blood and guts stuff too.

It's not your typical adolescent romance, but neither is it your typical vampire book. I think it's worth giving a shot. Also, I agree that as an English teacher these are a read you don't want to miss - your students will pick these up for sure.

Good luck with it! I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.

[Haunted]

I'm not into sappy stuff either, but I didn't find this to be sappy at all.

I can see why people would say that - because there is definitely a romance (or two), but the main character isn't really a romantic and it's all from her point of view so it's kind of colored by her attitude about love.

These books have a ton of strong themes that break out of the normal romance line, like conflicting images of right and wrong, and what it really means to give selflessly. It brings up a lot of really good ethical questions - and of course has some really good blood and guts stuff too.

It's not your typical adolescent romance, but neither is it your typical vampire book. I think it's worth giving a shot. Also, I agree that as an English teacher these are a read you don't want to miss - your students will pick these up for sure.

Good luck with it! I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.

I totally agree. Not sure whether classifying it as 'adolescent romance' is correct. I connected with two people, younger and responsible to others for guidance, but also facing extraordinary odds who have to try to fix it
themselves. That they have a high regard and respect for each other only gives them courage to carry on.

[the great kilted one]

Blood and guts you say? I guess the only way I'll ever know is to just pick it up. Did you ever think you'd come across an English teacher reluctant to read a book? Shh, don't tell anyone.

Oh, and speaking of non-traditional vampire books, has anyone read "Fledgling" by Octavia Butler? That's probably the next book I'll pick up, after I'm finished reading "IT" (which is amazing). It's come highly recommended, though, so if you liked "Twilight", you may like "Fledgling".

[skimom]

My 12yo daughter is crazy about this series, so of course I took a look.TGKO, I'm not sure if you'd like it if you don't like romances (me either). Sort of adolescent drama romantic. Meyer is an okay, workmanlike writer-not great, not terrible. For myself, if I'm going to read the adolescent stuff, Rowling among others) is a better writer. To be able to converse with this age group girl, though, maybe you'd better have a look for yourself.

[Haunted]

According to my niece - a true fan girl if ever there was one - Ms. Meyers is planning on (or in the midst of) writing a sort of prequel to the series. The same story, only told from Edward's point of view, focusing on when he was away from Bella... Don't hold me to this though.

Now, that sounds wonderful. My sister will emerge from her depression with good news like that.

[looloo59]

I think these books are brilliant! I have read the whole serise twice within about 2 weeks!!

[n8v_outlaw]

I don't mean to be a party crasher here. I have only read half way through the first book and wasn't pleased what I have read. Though I will give this to Sai Meyers, a big-big thank you for showing another side of the vampyres. They are not full of lusty sex ways and just rip your throat out to waste half of what they need to drink. What happen to the Brim Stroker Vampyres? What happen to the Vampyres that were artiful, but very very evil that it makes you want to wet your pants then wet them again when you are in bed. I mean... Most vampyre stories today have been too lusty for my taste. They don't tell about the superhuman strength they have, the superhuman speed they have, or the animal forms (Let alone any form) they can take. I have done a lot of studying on vampyres because of the novel I am writing. It is about a certain type of vampyre and hope to have it released soon. I better moving I have to do some errands and see if I can boot time to noon by doing something without watching its every tick.
Again, I am sorry for crashing in like this. Though I do say, Meyers gave Vampyres a little of their identy back. It is a shame what has come of the Legendry monsters these days....

[mad_hatter]

I read the first one and...I can say I wasn't pleased. It was a pretty quick read, one of those books that grabs on to you and no matter how much you dislike it, you can't escape. When I finished number one, I cursed at that piece of junk and swore to never read the rest of the series. I glare at all the posters and ads for the stories. Maybe it's just not my thing. I'm not much for love stories in general, and the second was full of dramatic things (so I heard from many friends who have read it). I guess I see it as a series of books that catch people who are either 10-18 or who like love stories. I see myself not belonging to either categories.

but if you like it, I'm glad for you. It's always nice to have a book you love to read.

[n8v_outlaw]

Now if you are more into adult ficiton, you should check out Kerri (or was it a y?) Arthur. Her character is more werewolf but is a vampyre as well. Though it is violent and full of sex scenes (*blushes* what guy would like this?), but don't get me wrong. When I read her first book of the four set, I went and bought the rest of the books. I guess she now has a second set of four out. When I read her book I couldn't put it down, and when I was done I didn't feel like I was ripped off my ten dollars I could have found a cd for instead. Meyer, I will have to further look in to this one. I just think it is another trend like those Potter books. *shivers and nods his head* That is all I will post.

[mad_hatter]

lol! violence and sex... is that what the Twilight series is missing?? *rofl*
yes, I see a very Harry Potter like thing going on with Meyer's books and it makes me sick to my stomach....but also I am a little happy. Vampires are coming back into to main stream...although they are much different from how I like them (that being cruel and monstrous).
as for Kerri (maybe with a 'y'?) Arthur- I'm not much into werewolves...I don't know why. I guess vampires have a little more to work with to make them realistic..like viruses or something with blood...but werewolves are more difficult for me to get into because of the full moon thing...and having a character as both? hmm..I'm maybe too old school for that? anyways, I'll check up on Ms. Arthur some time.

[skimom]

Okay, so I posted a fairly negative post a little while ago about these books, and I now want to take it back:)! I finally read the darn books, rather than reading the first half of the first one, and they definitely grew on me. The characters and story interested me after awhile, and now I've read the series twice. Part of the appeal for me was the lack of sex-the mechanics really aren't that interesting to me (I think I've figured out how it all works, thank you:)); however, the sensuality and longing were refreshing in our "just do it" society-much sexier than sex. I hope she decides to finish Midnight Sun-I actually liked the story from the vampire's perspective better.

[liseylandon]

I read the Twilight series when my daughter wanted me to take her to the midnight release of Breaking Dawn. Figured if I had to be there I might as well know what I am talking about.

Anyways.....loved it!! I love vampire stories and this was great. Lots of little spelling errors and grammar problems but for the most part....really good.

I heard she has stopped writing Midnight Sun due to an internet leak. She only posted the first chapter on her website to make it fair to all her readers to be able to see it. This info was posted on Yahoo!'s home page the other day.

[skimom]

Actually, Lisey, you can download everything she had done up to the point that it was leaked, I think about 270 pages. It's on her website.

[liseylandon]

I wasnt sure how much had been leaked but she--Meyer--had said in the article that she was going to post everything that was leaked for the fairness of her fans. I hope she finishes the book because seeing things from Edward's point of view would be wonderful. To know what was really going through his head on Bella's first day of school....to feel how much he had to control himself....awesome!!

[janeallyn]

:y::y: I say kudos to Stephanie Meyers A mom of Three and one who has never written before. How lucky can one be. She was inspired by a dream she had and when she awoke she started on her very successful way. We should all be so lucky.

And as for the cast of male characters........ Edward is hot, but as well as the others, but since I don't consider myself a cougar, I would like to say that Carlisle is very hot......... and I have had some good thoughts about him......... Bellla:love:

[kingbob]

Stephanie Meyer is a really bad writer. Stephen King pointed this out in an interview in Feb. 2009, "...The real difference is that Jo Rowling is a terrific writer and Stephanie Meyer can't write worth a darn. She's not very good." Stephen King. What most of you people that read the series because it was so "good" and Stephanie Meyer is "such s good writer", don't realise or are too young to realise that writing is so much more than just lining up words. Another point I want to criticise are the unfair comments on Stephen King. People that have never even seen a book by Stephen King, say that he is a really bad writer. Mostly because they are too young (about the age of fourteen) to let themselves in on a book by him. Also why would he be jealous of Stephanie Meyer and agree with J.K. Rowling's writing who was much more successful?

Anonymous Critic

[wulfhurley82]

I am from Neah Bay, WA... That woman has never been here for one, her writing is so bad that in one day I read half of the first book and put it down. I haven't read any of her books since then. I know the difference between good and bad; there is even wtf sh**. I apologize for the language but that is how it comes out sometimes when I cannot believe the crap sitting on the shelf. You can now take your door stop of the store shelf and please, PLEASE, PLEASE put it back into the closet and never let it out again!
J.K. Rowling I have had a chance to read, then again I don't follow the 'trends' because I am more of a leader, loner or whatever you want to call me (Just don't call me late for dinner, I am a mean old bear when I am hungry). I started reading Stephen King at 14, but then again I had a very pleasant mother (foster mom) that allowed me to read whatever as long as I was learning. She is the one that gave me a Sai King book to read. I read The Gunslinger in one and half days. I couldn't stop, I wanted more and more until I got to the point where at that time 1996 I had to wait for something new to come out. I still pace like a caged lion when I see Sai King has a new book coming out, there other authors I do this as well. Yes, I will admit Sai King is my favorite, but the younger children, adults (I myself 27 come April) should just leave King alone. I am running my mouth because this hype is making me upset. Everyone in Forks, mainly 10 and up (parents are just as nutty), painting their cars, screaming, running, dancing, crying and taking photos all over the place just for a crap storey. I had been gone for a year so when I came back I couldn't stand all the screaming and whiny girl teenagers.
One more note,
It is a disgrace that Meyer did to Vampyres. Making us glow is stupid and I don't understand why Vampyres would glow let alone want to glow. From my personal studies and readings, Vampyres (old spelling or Vampyric) are like ninja assassins that thirst for blood. They are all about control people, shadows, fire, animals and I could go on to point out the fact Meyer disgraced us Vampyres.

[Matticus]

Meyer disgraced us Vampyres

<unsure>

plus a little scared. :laugh:

[brownmouse]

Stephanie Meyer is a really bad writer. Stephen King pointed this out in an interview in Feb. 2009, "...The real difference is that Jo Rowling is a terrific writer and Stephanie Meyer can't write worth a darn. She's not very good." Stephen King. What most of you people that read the series because it was so "good" and Stephanie Meyer is "such s good writer", don't realise or are too young to realise that writing is so much more than just lining up words.

Anonymous Critic
Hey!- I am neither too young(ahem) nor unable to realize that writing is 'more than lining up words" and I liked this series!!. I have a college degree, am fairly well read ( I mean I like Dostoyevsky's Notes from the Underground for goodness sakes :wink2:-and even had the professor tell the class to come to me if they had any questions about the book after reading a paper I wrote about it,-and , if I may-I wowed (yes, wowed)a panel of college professors on my English placement exam with my essay and was moved to a higher level class . And I enjoyed reading The Twilight series. I thought Meyer set out to entertain and did just that. It wasn't Dostoyevsky- that is fer sure!- but I wasn't in the mood for Dostoyevsky. I needed an easy read-I needed it terribly. I was going through a difficult and stressful time. My mind was fried from worry and I just wanted to read something that stilled the waters some. And Twilight did just that. It was comfortably predictable, delightfully effervescent and enjoyably benign. Sometimes one needs a silly read. Sometimes it is just what the doctor ordered. Not every book has to make a big splash in the pool of literature -sometimes be bopping along on the little rubber ducky inner tube is enough. But just because sometimes I like to float doesn't mean I don't know how to swim.

[Presque Vu]

I have all the books in the series on hold for now, I want to read them, but at the same time I'm not really sure I'd like them. Somehow re-reading a book by SK always seems like a better choice lol!

[Deavlynn]

It is a disgrace that Meyer did to Vampyres. Making us glow is stupid and I don't understand why Vampyres would glow let alone want to glow. From my personal studies and readings, Vampyres (old spelling or Vampyric) are like ninja assassins that thirst for blood. They are all about control people, shadows, fire, animals and I could go on to point out the fact Meyer disgraced us Vampyres.

Um. It's hard for me to take your opinion seriously when you think you're a mythical creature. :eyebrow: Just FYI.

But this is actually one of the things I really like about the series - her vampires aren't your average vampires and her werewolves aren't typical either. I like that she can take the overdone vampire concept and create it anew.

[Lepplady]

I'm sorry people, but I hated it. I read 9 pages of book 1 and I had to put it down for the sake of my sanity. Her descriptives, which went on for PAGES were horrible and often backtracked on themselves. She'd be halfway through the next paragraph before doubling back to talk about something that happened halfway through the previous page, then jumped ahead without any transition. I needed a dramamaine.
I mean no disrespect to anybody that enjoyed the series, but to me it seemed like it was written by a depressed lovelorn teenager to appeal to depressed lovelorn teenagers. And since I am neither lovelorn, depressed, nor a teenager, this series had nothing to offer me.
But, as abysmally badly as Meyer writes, she's laughing all the way to the bank, so it doesn't matter what I think.

[tillyn]

I've read all , i did enjoy the first 3, to repetitive about somethings won't say what. There simple reading Now don't take that the wrong way, read one of Sk's then one of hers, you'll see what i mean. Anybody's books would do. She needs to be more complex then she is. It's geared to a much younger audience . Myer fan's please don't string me up!!

[staropeace]

I hated the one I read...or half read. And I dont believe vampires exist except in the minds of folks with issues that need tending to.

[wulfhurley82]

Um. It's hard for me to take your opinion seriously when you think you're a mythical creature. :eyebrow: Just FYI.

But this is actually one of the things I really like about the series - her vampires aren't your average vampires and her werewolves aren't typical either. I like that she can take the overdone vampire concept and create it anew.

Yes I did slip there and I apologize. I have a novel of a vampyre, but he doesn't glow or suck blood. He is one of rage trying to be happy with his wife and family. I just published it after four years of working on it. In the end when he does learn what peace is and what love is; he dies.


I don't mind if you like Twilight, good for you, now get off my porch. The main problem I had with it, is that the woman took FORKS, WASHINGTON and screwed it beyond disgrace. She got nothing right as far as I could tell by the twelve chapter. Please don't argue with me on this point, because I have lived and bounced between Forks, Tacoma, Neah Bay and Port Angeles Washington. I do now live in Neah Bay, and some times I go to Forks, but since the Twilight esxplosion I have had to stay away because my anxiety is worked over time with the screaming and crazy girls and women. :eek2:

[Nero]

I am from Neah Bay, WA... That woman has never been here for one, her writing is so bad that in one day I read half of the first book and put it down. I haven't read any of her books since then. I know the difference between good and bad; there is even wtf sh**. I apologize for the language but that is how it comes out sometimes when I cannot believe the crap sitting on the shelf. You can now take your door stop of the store shelf and please, PLEASE, PLEASE put it back into the closet and never let it out again!
J.K. Rowling I have had a chance to read, then again I don't follow the 'trends' because I am more of a leader, loner or whatever you want to call me (Just don't call me late for dinner, I am a mean old bear when I am hungry). I started reading Stephen King at 14, but then again I had a very pleasant mother (foster mom) that allowed me to read whatever as long as I was learning. She is the one that gave me a Sai King book to read. I read The Gunslinger in one and half days. I couldn't stop, I wanted more and more until I got to the point where at that time 1996 I had to wait for something new to come out. I still pace like a caged lion when I see Sai King has a new book coming out, there other authors I do this as well. Yes, I will admit Sai King is my favorite, but the younger children, adults (I myself 27 come April) should just leave King alone. I am running my mouth because this hype is making me upset. Everyone in Forks, mainly 10 and up (parents are just as nutty), painting their cars, screaming, running, dancing, crying and taking photos all over the place just for a crap storey. I had been gone for a year so when I came back I couldn't stand all the screaming and whiny girl teenagers.
One more note,
It is a disgrace that Meyer did to Vampyres. Making us glow is stupid and I don't understand why Vampyres would glow let alone want to glow. From my personal studies and readings, Vampyres (old spelling or Vampyric) are like ninja assassins that thirst for blood. They are all about control people, shadows, fire, animals and I could go on to point out the fact Meyer disgraced us Vampyres.

Us werewolfën are right there with you vampyres. Glowering and Suffering through the indignities thrust upon us by today's Young Adult literature. Being kept down by The Man. I feel your pain.

[Deavlynn]

I don't mind if you like Twilight, good for you, now get off my porch. The main problem I had with it, is that the woman took FORKS, WASHINGTON and screwed it beyond disgrace. She got nothing right as far as I could tell by the twelve chapter. Please don't argue with me on this point, because I have lived and bounced between Forks, Tacoma, Neah Bay and Port Angeles Washington. I do now live in Neah Bay, and some times I go to Forks, but since the Twilight esxplosion I have had to stay away because my anxiety is worked over time with the screaming and crazy girls and women. :eek2:

Sorry, I didn't realize I was on your porch... I just enjoy a friendly debate. Please don't take it personally. I have strong opinions and like to defend them. Maybe I should have joined the debate team.

Anyway, I can't argue with you over the setting, I've never been to Forks, although it sounds lovely. I'm sure the Twilight phenomenon has changed the town considerably which is an unfortunate side-effect of any fad. I can understand your anger if it has intruded on you life in that way, but hopefully the added tourist revenue will be good for the local businesses. She had to set the story somewhere and I think her reasons for choosing Forks were logical even if her version of Forks isn't true to life.

Don't worry, I'm sure the screaming fan girls will die down as Edward fades into literary history.

[wulfhurley82]

I sure the hell hope so! *laughs* They get my anxiety up and roaring... I haven't been back to Forks since I had to fight off screaming and giggling teenagers for some doughnuts. I guess yes, it is doing the small town some good. It is hard times, and I guess I shouldn't be so... Growler about the whole thing. It is just she got the Forks School wrong, again writer's change things to fit their story, I will accept that. Then she said that Ed drove fast from Port Angeles to Forks, I know this is not fact. The road is on the side of a mountain and barely above the lake water. The fastest I have driven on that road was fifty, and that is pushing it. I ended up slowing down to at least 35 mph. Then again... writer's will bend the physical world to fit their story. I, myself, have written a vampyre storey and it is placed on a made up planet. Then on top of that I have another story that is based here in Washington state. It is kind of a what if story, but then again it is all fun and games considering I have seven foot humanoid cat figures roaming around. :rofl:

[aspiringwriter]

I started and finished all 4 in 2 weeks at the most.. I couldn't put them down.. Oh and i've heard (but this just hearsay) thats she's working on another!! I SO HOPE SO!

[nunu_chis]

I don`t know why, but I just refuse to read them, I have seen the movie and I liked it a lot, (specially because of Rob Pattison), but I don`t think I could have enjoyned the book as much as the movie (because there are not images of Rob Pattison in the book!). The story is interesting, but I don`t know.. I just don`t feel attracted to it as much as to read it (even when I know that maybe I would like it). Anyway, now I have too many books that I want to read, so I`ll just keep seeing the movies.
It really bothers me when I hear people saying that "it is the new Harry Potter", that sounds as if it were AS GOOD as Harry Potter and that is saying too much! I haven`t read the books, but the story can`t be compared to Harry Potter! it is different and it is much more simple and less original than HP!

[Todash]

I think I have to read at least the first one, just because it's caused all this hoo-ha. I heard someone compare the writing style/plot line to romance novels, though, and if that's the case, I may not make it through the first one. That style just isn't my bag of noodles.

[wulfhurley82]

=)) Todash... ROMANCE novels! :P Please... it is hogwash, Rowling wrote better than Meyer. I can put up with Rowling but not Meyer. Sorry, but Meyer as at the bottom for me. I read half of the first and most of the time I was saying "oh, mistake, oh, mistake, wrong spelling, wrong grammar, wrong punctuation, blah blah. Romance novels *shakes his head* I have read some romance novels, Twilight is no where close to it... Thanks for the chuckle =)) =))

[AmandaRose]

Sorry, I didn't realize I was on your porch....


vampyres or werewolves, this shittt is funny :rofl:

[AmandaRose]

oops making a mess left this off.....

Originally Posted by wulfhurley82
I don't mind if you like Twilight, good for you, now get off my porch.



Sorry, I didn't realize I was on your porch...


vampyres or werewolfs , this shittt is funny :rofl:

[wulfhurley82]

oops making a mess left this off.....

Originally Posted by wulfhurley82
I don't mind if you like Twilight, good for you, now get off my porch.

vampyres or werewolfs , this shittt is funny :rofl:

:rofl: :rofl: I know... oh, did I mention I have a heavy caliber six shooter with silver bullets, though the silver burns me for a while. Yes, my porch is not for the twilight fans. i am sorry, but now if you are a Sai King fan on my porch. Hail! Tet Mate and wipe your feet, the musses will get after you with the clam shovel. If she don't, there is my moma; and she has a meaner left hand hook with that shovel. *Rubs his head* Only once! Only once did I get hit with that! :oo: Any whoo, I am off to go cause chaos on my new game I just downloadeded..... :eek2:

[AmandaRose]

:laugh: Its so funny cause having no clue really I was just going to come into the thread and say that well 'If Stephen dont like it, I dont like it!' with a smarty face :tongue: but you two cracked me up! :rofl: good stuff

[Zenjamin]

I'm actually glad that someone wrote a series that younger people can get into. When you can get younger people to read instead of doing something less educating, then it's all good. What I don't get though is the reason so many of you that enjoyed the Twilight series feel compelled to bash someone else for their personal preferences. Show at least a little maturity and composure please!


Ok, first of all Lyn let me just apologize for stalking you. I know you likely want a little retreat from the life at our other forum, But I have strongly formed opinions about the twilight series, so now I have an excuse to tell myself.



Ok, now that that is out of the way, Im going to have to disagree with you that it was good that these books were written at all.
If I had a daughter, I would forbid her to read these books for entertainment.
If she were to read them, I would require her to critically analyze them with me so that she can understand that, not only are these books bad, but it is immoral to idealize the behavior of the main charcters.

Im not disagreeing with you because you are wrong, I am disagreeing with you because you do not know enough about these books. And if you had a little sister like me (or daughter in this case) who read these books, you would be appauled what you found out about these books.

Also, these books have ZERO educational value to someone who already knows how to read.
Actually, I take that back. They have negative educational value (unless critically analyzed). These books are more apt to rot a little girl's brain then any form of TV or video games.

These books are worse then the cultural candy of things like SpoungeBob. They are a cultural scourge somewhere between Machiavelli's The Prince and Mien Kempf.



... Ok, I did exaggerate just a little bit there. But that is because of the one saving grace of this series.
It is the perfect villan. The villan you love to hate because everyone else loves him/it and because it brings out the worst in otherwise good people.
( lol. I just cant pursuade myself to pull any punches here)


Ok. Lets get on with it.
First, the most popular argument in favor of the quality of these books is also the weakest argument. And also the one that the OP uses.
But when an author writes a book that becomes a movie, obviously its pretty damn good!
The idea that a book is popular because it is good is called an "ad populum" fallacy I believe.

But regardless of what you call it, it is a verry good question to ask "Why are these books so popular, even when there are vampire romance books out there of higher quality.

Well, the most kind answer is that these books are like candy. You know its not good for you, but there are so many tasty cultural Clichés that you just have to have that sugar high.
Occupation Girl expresses her thoughts on the matter well. Click on "My thoughts on Twilight, let me show you them" here (http://cleoland.pbwiki.com/Twilight#Bookdiscussionentries)
(She also sumarizes the rest series in the blow links for the uniniatated.)

But that doesnt get deep enough into it, so I came up with a different hypothesis that I think is fairly well thought out.
http://twilightsucks.proboards81.com/index.cgi?board=twilight&action=display&thread=3998

Yes. You read that right.
Twilight is popular because of... Hypnosis.




Now you may be thinking... "Wow Zenjamin. Why you got to be such a hater? It cant be that bad. Why do you think this series deserves such scorn?"
Well, if you read the summaries of Occupation Girl in the above link, you likely already know.
And she actually likes twilight for its candy goodness (At least the first one. Eventually an critical person will be disillusioned with twinkies. )

EDIT:
Im gonna have to split this post because its too long.

[Zenjamin]

But even her sumaries can take awhile to read, so let me just sprout the reasons off the top of my head.

First off, the first 3/4 of Twilight is about Bella swooning over Edward. For zero reason other then his good looks.
Yes, she spends pages upon pages describing how beautiful and godlike Edward is. The only reason she is in "love" with Edward is because he is good looking (which I would contend as he is metrosexual incarnate, but we wont get into that.), And the only reason Edward is in "love" with Bella is because her blood smells really good and he cant deside weather to eat her or weather to "eat (http://www.instantrimshot.com/)" her.

But thats ok. The books shallow. That only means its not good. I wouldnt be writing an essay like post to condemn literary porn. On occasion, I actually like literary porn so long as it isnt pretending to be anything else.

No, my problem lies with the main characters. Some people say Bella and Edward dont have chemistry or personality compatibility because they dont have personality.
Thats not true. they do have some personality, just not much. this way it allows the reader to imprint (*shudders at the breaking dawn reference*) themselves on bella, and their ideal man on Edward.
But what little personality they do have is rather ulgy when you sit down and think about it. Bella is the worst kind of Mary Sue, and Edward is the worst kind of Gary Stu.

Bella starts the book moving to Forks Washington to be with her deadbeat dad because... well, hes a deadbeat, and he just simply cant function on his own without bella to take care of him.
Washington is beautiful country. But she just cant stop bitchin about every fricken thing. Spending the first couple of chapters telling you how special and unique and beautiful she is, and how she is a perfect little myarter for comming to this terrable place.
Because you see. Even though she is amazing, she is clumsy. So nobody in school will understand how cool and above them she is, and she will be all alone.

But when she does go to school, everyone worships the ground she walks on and boys seem to think their reason for going to school is to show Bella around in the hopes that she might be willing to give them a date.
She treats all these people like scum. (OMG! why wont they leave me alone!)

Except for Edward. Because "OME (Twilight fans say "oh my Edward" instead of "Oh my God") he is SOOOO beautiful. And we hear about it allot.

Some quick things you should know about Edward.
He is a stalker. He creeps into Bellas room at night and watches her sleep (this is before they started talking), But its ok. because hes hot.
Also, Edward is an abusive controlling bastard of a boyfriend.
He sabotages her car to keep her from seeing other guys.


Lets see... what else can I think of.
Oh ya. Edward rapes Bella...
Ok, thats not true as it was consensual.

But after they get married, Edward does the nasty will Bella. Only he is so primal and unable to control his strength, he literally knocks Bella unconchious in the middle of their roughhousing. Despite this, Edward still finishes.
Bella wakes up with bruses.


But thats nothing compared to the pregnancy.
You see, after they get married, she gets knocked up, and he turns her into a vampire (and they aganoize forever about in which order to do this), She swells up in about one month and the half breed baby creature thing breaks Bella's back.
But thats not the end of it. For some reason, Edward has to give Bella a C-section with his teeth!

How romantic. :love:


Oh, but im not done yet,
you see, through all these books, there has been a sort of love triangle. Jaccob is a wearwolf who (for no reason whatsoever) is in love with Bella.
But when he sees the half vampire child/thing/daughter come out of the gorey mess that used to be bella's womb (which she heals no problem, because vampires in this book are 100% imortal) he imprints on the baby.
Now if you dont know what that means, it means that he instantly fell in love with the baby and would be its mate forever and ever.

And everyone is happy, and there isnt even a fight or a climax at the end of the book (except for the unconscious necrophilia), and everyone lives happily forever and ever.


... Except for the author, who threw a hissy fit when someone leaked the last book (which was really just a retelling of the first form Edwards POV) and said she would never write again or even release what she had already written.


Or the two main actors of the movies who have to pretend (http://cleoland.pbwiki.com/Twilight#THEBESTINTERVIEWEVER) to like this. and failing horribly.







... Ok, thats all ive got for now.
that was mildly fun.


And remember, if you like these books, I do not think any less of you as an individual.
All it means is that you belive in "true love" and are willing to suspend belief to get a taste of it.
And that suspension of belief and anylisis made you hypnotized or entranced.

... thats all.
:zip:

[Zenjamin]

I Just read the board ediquite thread.

I just though I would mention to you that I was planning on editing my post to make it less "snarky" and adding a disclaimer that I wrote that reply for a friend and I am fine with anyone who likes the twilight series, Its just not verry good when looked at with a critical eye.

[wulfhurley82]

I don't have to read a damn book to find true love. I can simply get off my ass and walk away from the computer. Then go down the hall and enter our bedroom. Finally snuggling up with the one I will be with for as long as we can put up with each other. That is the best vow a girlfriend has ever given me. I will apologize for being such an a*^ about Twilight. I live in Washington state, yes it is probably good for the small town. I just cannot see what all the hype is about. Like I stated, if you are a twilight fan please, please stay in Forks, WA. DO NOT come to Neah Bay, WA with that hype because this town is actually the Makah Reservation and we don't take kindly about strangers unless you respect the area around you. I have seen quite a few tourist be escorted off the town limits. Not to mention we are also self govern to a point, that is then where the FBI would come in. Zenjamin, thank you for the great posts (rather long but made sense). I can agree with you on some points. As far as I have stated what I feel and I am doing now. Thank you for the laughs and glad Rose like it. To me the books would make great kindling for my moma's wood stove. That is my last statement on this. I have written my own vampyre novel, and it is on sale. Due to rules I cannot say any more. I do have a vampyre storey going up on another site that is free. I don't get paid for people reading my work, but I don't want to get paid. I want to share my writing and stories. Thank you, and if I have upset any one I apologize for it. I am just a tad grumpy bear about the whole 'twilight' explosion that has happened here. Laters, Wulf

[Todash]

I got the first book from the library yesterday, so I guess this weekend I'm gonna find out what everyone's so feisty about. :D

[staropeace]

I honestly think Stephanie Meyer has gotten more attention and publicity that she deserves on this message board....lol........:biggrin2::biggrin2:

[bio_chem06]

Did anyone read the quotes that Stephen King said about Stephanie Meyer. It's pretty interesting. Although, the media can misconstrue words...

I did read the books, they were something to pass the time, but I don't feel like they were the most amazing literary work of all time. I didn't even finish the last one because I felt like it was just dragging on. But I would suggest them to others to read because for the most part, they were entertaining.

[demorgan]

Who cares. Let the people enjoy their candy if they want it. I really dont see why we as adults should care one way or another. Its just a form of entertainment.

qUESTION. Are we(not me) bashing Twillight because its the POPULAR thing at this moment. Why dont we bash Patterson. King thinks his writing is poor as well.


Im glad that young people are reading.

[Zenjamin]

Who cares. Let the people enjoy their candy if they want it. I really dont see why we as adults should care one way or another. Its just a form of entertainment.

Question. Are we(not me) bashing Twillight because its the POPULAR thing at this moment?
I know you expected me to dance around this question.
But my answer is definitively yes.

There is no shortage of poor writing or people who want to promote an emotionally and ethically shallow mindset. But what matters most, the only reason for the average joe to seriously criticize a form of entertainment, is its effect on culture, and on weather or not it is positive of negative.


An individual can believe, enjoy, or grow up with whatever they want.
But when half a generation of girls venerate the idea that looks equates to love and a lack of personality is sexy, Thats bad. When half a generation of girls come to believe that stalking and relationship sabotage is way of showing romantic affection, thats bad. When Half a generation of girls fantasize about a scenario where all of their personality and cognitive function is stripped bare to be replaced by a vicious contempt for anyone "normal" so they can just await a time when a good looking demi-god fifills all voids in her life and makes her complete... thats bad.

Something worth speaking about when the subject comes up.





Again.
If they read this, knowing that it is candy, thats ok. If they read this without letting themselves [i]become[/b] Bella Swan. Fine by me.

But I dont think you guys understand how verry into these books some of the young girls get.
They let themselves become Bella. And they compare their male companions to Edward.

The author said that "unfortunately", she had a normal relationship with her husband, and that he was nothing like Edward.

And many take it a step further.


Perhaps the craze has died down, I dont know. But after seeing it at the movie theaters and among my little sisters friends....
*shivers*

[ShadysLady]

I have read the whole series and loved them but the next book won't even be released.

[JohnDalglish]

I honestly think Stephanie Meyer has gotten more attention and publicity that she deserves on this message board....lol........:biggrin2::biggrin2:

Hi,

I couldn't agree more, Staro!

As I've said, I haven't read her and have no intention of doing so, but I think ANYTHING that gets young people reading is a good thing, full stop.

Now, can we condemn this thread to the obscurity it so richly deserves please?

Long days and pleasant nights

[Moderator]

The full USA Weekend interview from which the original uproar was started when the excerpt was posted will be coming out this weekend, so I expect there will be a second wave of Twilight fans protesting. I've already received a couple that are still in the queue. I'm hoping to post something that will direct them to the thread which was closed earlier and address that Steve didn't take it upon himself to try to ruin Ms. Meyer's career with his comments. He answered a question and also mentioned other writers with less than glowing endorsements so it wasn't that he was singling her out. :smile2:

[SusanNorton]

I got the first book from the library yesterday, so I guess this weekend I'm gonna find out what everyone's so feisty about. :D

Oops! I hit the submit key too early. What I meant to say is that the first one is the worst, but of course there's no other place to start. If you're truly interested in reading all four books, keep this in mind - they do get progressively more interesting (if not better written).

Good for you for getting them from the library; it won't sting so much if they're free. :)

[Zenjamin]

As I've said, I haven't read her and have no intention of doing so, but I think ANYTHING that gets young people reading is a good thing, full stop.


I understand what your saying John. I really do. Young people really need to read more. But I think they need to read more because books can put you in the mind of a complex individual the way that no TV show can.
Books can immerse you in a rich, detailed, interconnected universe.
Books can make us question who we are in the world.

But this all depends on the book.


Children should not be reading books just because of some assumed idea that reading will magically make them more complete human beings.

I mean. if reading is just always good, why not have them read an operating systems manual for your computer? Why not just have them read Mien Kempf"?




I know what you mean. I want what you want for our next generation. But putting all authors on the same pedestal as a positive influence... that is a mistake IMO.

[Todash]

I understand what your saying John. I really do. Young people really need to read more. But I think they need to read more because books can put you in the mind of a complex individual the way that no TV show can.
Books can immerse you in a rich, detailed, interconnected universe.
Books can make us question who we are in the world.

But this all depends on the book.

Children should not be reading books just because of some assumed idea that reading will magically make them more complete human beings.

I mean. if reading is just always good, why not have them read an operating systems manual for your computer? Why not just have them read Mien Kempf"?

I know what you mean. I want what you want for our next generation. But putting all authors on the same pedestal as a positive influence... that is a mistake IMO.
I see what you are saying; I think John is saying it's just good to get them in the habit, and as they grow older they are likely to choose the good stuff over dreck.

[JohnDalglish]

? Why not just have them read Mien Kempf"?

I know what you mean. I want what you want for our next generation. But putting all authors on the same pedestal as a positive influence... that is a mistake IMO.

Hi,

Personally, I think that everyone should read 'Mein Kampf'.

And I never suggested for a second that all authors should be put 'on the same pedestal', but where are the Meyer readers going to go when they've outgrown her?

Like many Potter readers, some will come to Sai King IMO.

Long days and pleasant nights

[staropeace]

All of that no8 lot candykane bliss nail polish again!!!!!!!!!!!! :eek2: HALP!

[demorgan]

I know you expected me to dance around this question.
But my answer is definitively yes.

There is no shortage of poor writing or people who want to promote an emotionally and ethically shallow mindset. But what matters most, the only reason for the average joe to seriously criticize a form of entertainment, is its effect on culture, and on weather or not it is positive of negative.


An individual can believe, enjoy, or grow up with whatever they want.
But when half a generation of girls venerate the idea that looks equates to love and a lack of personality is sexy, Thats bad. When half a generation of girls come to believe that stalking and relationship sabotage is way of showing romantic affection, thats bad. When Half a generation of girls fantasize about a scenario where all of their personality and cognitive function is stripped bare to be replaced by a vicious contempt for anyone "normal" so they can just await a time when a good looking demi-god fifills all voids in her life and makes her complete... thats bad.

Something worth speaking about when the subject comes up.





Again.
If they read this, knowing that it is candy, thats ok. If they read this without letting themselves [i]become[/b] Bella Swan. Fine by me.

But I dont think you guys understand how verry into these books some of the young girls get.
They let themselves become Bella. And they compare their male companions to Edward.

The author said that "unfortunately", she had a normal relationship with her husband, and that he was nothing like Edward.

And many take it a step further.


Perhaps the craze has died down, I dont know. But after seeing it at the movie theaters and among my little sisters friends....
*shivers*


Well, Im sure that not everyone or every young girl that reads this stuff is going to become shallow. And anyway, they are teenagers. Im sure that this type of attitude they will grow out of. Its just a fad. Is it really worth getting so up and antsy about it.

[demorgan]

I understand what your saying John. I really do. Young people really need to read more. But I think they need to read more because books can put you in the mind of a complex individual the way that no TV show can.
Books can immerse you in a rich, detailed, interconnected universe.
Books can make us question who we are in the world.

But this all depends on the book.


Children should not be reading books just because of some assumed idea that reading will magically make them more complete human beings.

I mean. if reading is just always good, why not have them read an operating systems manual for your computer? Why not just have them read Mien Kempf"?




I know what you mean. I want what you want for our next generation. But putting all authors on the same pedestal as a positive influence... that is a mistake IMO.


Reading an operating systems manual for your computer would be helpful. I dont see anything wrong with that. Matter of fact, there is something that i need to look up as we speak. Thanks for the advice.

[Zenjamin]

Well, Im sure that not everyone or every young girl that reads this stuff is going to become shallow. And anyway, they are teenagers. Im sure that this type of attitude they will grow out of. Its just a fad. Is it really worth getting so up and antsy about it.

Just as a disclaimer.
I am not "antsy" about this. These books are not something I think about on a regular basis. They to not really affect my RL in any shape or form.

But when I find a topic worth debating I throw all my arguments into it.
Its an academic practice for me.

[frangoldsmith]

my daughter who doesn't read a lot, absolutely loved them all and finished the lot in just over a week! my step-daughter also loved them. I wasn't interested till i read your post i might give them a go. frangoldsmith

[Susan]

I'm halfway through Twilight. Its ok, but I just can't really sink my teeth into it.

[Todash]

I read it. It's like a Harlequin romance with sparkly vampires. Meh.

[LadyHitchhiker]

I read at tdt.com that Stephen King thought that Stephenie Meyer couldn't write worth a darn.... there was a link to an article...

[username13]

Yeah, I read that article too. And I agree with him on that. The Twilight books were entertaining, and I loved them while I was reading them, but in the end they really aren't that good.

[elevelyn]

I started reading them because a close friend who never reads loved them so much. Im halfway through the third book and im still trying to work out whats the big deal. To me they are a really easy read, not very interesting and have ALOT of repetition, Bella wrecks my head, she is soooo stupid and edward is way too old for her, but, i cant give out because im still reading them. I don't think ill read anything else from her. the vampires in Terry Pratchett books are alot more believable, the world in those books is set on a disc on top of 4 elephants on a massive turtle traveling through space.

Also i wouldn't let my little sister read the series, i think bella and edward's relationship is obsessive and thats not love to me. Just my two cents worth

[Zenjamin]

I think you might like these. The first link may be mildly spoilerish for you... but lets face it, you sometimes need to be prepared.

http://shinga.deviantart.com/art/Head-Trip-Breaking-Dawn-98016573
http://blastedgoose.deviantart.com/art/sparkly-vampire-107854560
http://kupo-chan.deviantart.comart/Squidward-Cullen-and-Bellabob-96235526
http://ruthaer.deviantart.com/art/Twilight-Parody-82042522

[LadyHitchhiker]

Okay so I'm finally breaking down and reading them. My friend Kristina at work loaned the 4 books to me. I finished the first two books in a few hours and haven't started number three. I must say I've read a LOT better vampire love stories than these books so far. It just seems to be lacking some meat to the stories. But they're not horrible. I've read FAR worse.

[LadyHitchhiker]

I'm halfway through Twilight. Its ok, but I just can't really sink my teeth into it.

This made me laugh out loud. Did you mean the pun?

And as far as comparing this story to Harlequin, I think there's a ton more angst and a lot less smooching. I like smooching. I like a good Harlequin every now and then! But if you want a very very interesting grown up vampire/werewolf/human love triangle romance, you might try Laurell K Hamilton's Anita Blake series.

[Robert Gray]

When I was growing up I read whatever my grandparents had available to me. My grandmother was fond of romance novels. I read more than my fair share of them. I know one when I see it. Stephanie Meyer writes romance novels with marginally new window dressing. I don't have patience for them, but to each their own. I don't watch daytime soap operas either, but clearly there are enough people out there starving for a constant repeat of cliche interactions and melodrama.

Meyer isn't a strong writer. It is likely her technical expertise will improve as she continues to write. That is the way of things. Those, like Sai King, who have given an honest critique of her skills are doing her a favor. The fact that a film was made based on her books is in no way an endorsement of the quality of her work. It is an endorsement of the continuing strength of vampires and superheroes in the venue.

[LadyHitchhiker]

After reading the first book I was wondering "how did they make this into a movie that would hold anyone's attention for very long?" Of course, I tend to have a little ADD. LOL I just didn't think there seemed to be enough going on in the story to make it into a truly successful movie. But that's just my interpretation WITHOUT having seen the movie. I may change my tune when I've seen the movie. :D

[gclark]

Well i'm not one to say either way if this story is good or bad. I haven't read it. The fact that i don't ever plan to read it doesn't make a difference either. I figure everyone has their own tastes, regardless of how others feel about said tastes. I trust Sai King's opinions, and if he says it stinks, then it probably does. Who am I to judge? I enjoyed the Harry Potter story, although i haven't had time to finish the entire collection. But i'm just not interested a story that has become a bandwagon read for the young adults in this country. I hadn't even heard of twilight until the movie came out, but like i said i'm not into that genre.

[elevelyn]

I think you might like these. The first link may be mildly spoilerish for you... but lets face it, you sometimes need to be prepared.

They were brilliant. thankee sai, id finished the books anyway so there were no surprises, i wish i hadnt tho because the last book was terrible, kind of sick really imo