Bridge the Gap

Auction #15: The End: Five Queer Kids Save the World by Nora Olsen

2012-01-29T12:55:00.000-08:00

Auction #15: The End: Five Queer Kids Save the World by Nora Olsen

To learn more about the book or Nora, check out her website.

First Bid: $5, then go up in at least $1 increments. You can go up more than that though.

Ends: Sunday, February 5 at 11:59 P.M. EST!!

Auction #14: Julie Anne Peters Prize Pack (6 Books)

2012-01-29T12:26:00.000-08:00

Auction #14: Julie Anne Peters Prize Pack (All Signed)

Includes: Keeping you a Secret, Rage: A Love Story, Grl2Grl, By the Time You Read This, I'll Be Dead, Pretend You Love Me, and Luna (6 books in all)

First Bid: $10, then go up in at least $1 increments. You can go up more than that though.

Ends: Sunday, February 5 at 11:59 P.M. EST!!

Auction #13: Film Festival in a Box (Love Theme)

2012-01-29T12:21:00.000-08:00

Remember: All money donated goes to the winner of the Living Beyond Tolerance scholarship. If you want to apply, please do. We are taking applications until March 1, 2012.

If you have any questions about anything at all, try here: lauren51990 AT aol DOT com

All giveaways are open to the U.S. only, unless otherwise noted. Sorry International readers!

Auction #13: Film Festival in a Box (Love Theme)

Who isn’t in love with love? Heck, we’re head over heels! Warm your heart with romantic tales from around the world, designed to show you that love knows no bounds.

For more on this product, check out their website.

First Bid: $5, then go up in at least $1 increments. You can go up more than that though.

Ends: Sunday, February 5 at 11:59 P.M. EST!!

Auction #12: A Dangerous Man by Anne Brooke (U.S./U.K)

2012-01-29T12:13:00.000-08:00

Auction #12: A Dangerous Man by Anne Brooke

For more on the author and her book, check out her website.

First Bid: $15, then go up in at least $1 increments. You can go up more than that though. Open to the U.S. and the U.K. If you win, you can choose an e-book or a paperback copy

Ends: Sunday, February 5 at 11:59 P.M. EST!!

Auction #11: The Dark Wife and Cage the Darlings by Sarah Diemer

2012-01-29T12:08:00.000-08:00

Auction #11: Sarah Diemer Prize Pack

This Includes: The Dark Wife and Cage the Darlings

To learn more about the author and her books, check out her website.

First Bid: $10, then go up in at least $1 increments. You can go up more than that though.

Ends: Sunday, February 5 at 11:59 P.M. EST!!

Auction #10: Mark A. Roeder Prize Pack (5 Books!)

2012-01-29T12:02:00.000-08:00

Auction #10: Mark A. Roeder Prize Pack

This includes: Yesterday's Tomorrow, Just Making Out, Homo for the Holidays - Mostly Gay Christmas Tales, A Better Place, and Christmas in Graymoor Mansion

(if you want just A Better Place, check out Auction #9)

For more on the author and his books, check out his website!

First Bid: $10, then go up in at least $1 increments. You can go up more than that though.

Ends: Sunday, February 5 at 11:59 P.M. EST!!

Auction #9: A Better Place by Mark A. Roeder

2012-01-29T11:56:00.000-08:00

Auction #9: A Better Place by Mark A. Roeder

For more on this book and the author, check out his website.

First Bid: $5, then go up in at least $1 increments. You can go up more than that though.

Ends: Sunday, February 5 at 11:59 P.M. EST!!

(if you want this book PLUS other Mark books, check out Auction # 10)

Auction #8: Abby Denson Prize Pack (Graphic Novels)

2012-01-29T11:53:00.000-08:00

Auction #8: Abby Denson Prize Pack

This includes: Dolltopia, Tough Love: High School Confidential, and Boy Trouble Vol. 2- Born to Trouble

For more on these books and the author, check out her website

First Bid: $10, then go up in at least $1 increments. You can go up more than that though.

Ends: Sunday, February 5 at 11:59 P.M. EST!!

Auction #7: LGBT Duo Prize Pack

2012-01-25T18:50:00.000-08:00

This is an LGBT Duo Prize Pack, which means it includes two books:

Tale of Two Summers by Brian Sloan and You Know Where To Find Me by Rachel Cohn

First Bid: $5, then go up in at least $1 increments. You can go up more than that though.

Ends: Wednesday, February 1 at 11:59 P.M. EST!!

Auction # 6: Brent Hartinger Prize Pack

2012-01-25T18:48:00.000-08:00

Prize Includes the Entire Russel Middlebrook Series by Brent Hartinger (all signed!!):

Geography Club, The Order of the Poison Oak, and Split Screen

First Bid: $10, then go up in at least $1 increments. You can go up more than that though.

To bid, leave the amount you would donate in the comment section. These are NOT delayed, so you can always see the latest bid. Keep bidding until the auction ends. The highest bid at the end of the auction WINS. Leave your email or keep checking back to see if you won.

Ends: Wednesday, February 1 at 11:59 P.M. EST!!

Auction #5: Prize Pack of Books from Hayden Thorne OVER

2012-01-19T18:48:00.000-08:00

Win a Prize Pack of books from author Hayden Thorne

Includes: Renfred's Masquerade, The Glass Minstrel, and The Twilight Gods

To learn more about these books or the author, visit her website.

First Bid: $10, then go up in at least $1 increments. You can go up more than that though.

Ends: Friday, January 27th at 11:59 P.M. EST!!

Auction # 4: Don't Let Me Go by J.H. Trumble OVER!!

2012-01-13T17:56:00.000-08:00

Remember: All money donated goes to the winner of the Living Beyond Tolerance scholarship. If you want to apply, please do. We are taking applications until March 1, 2012.

If you have any questions about anything at all, try here: lauren51990 AT aol DOT com

All giveaways are open to the U.S. only, unless otherwise noted. Sorry International readers!

WIN: Don't Let Me Go by J.H. Trumble

To learn more about the book or the author, check out their website!

First Bid: $5, then go up in at least $1 increments. You can go up more than that though.

Ends: Friday, January 20th at 11:59 P.M.

Auction # 3: Tom Dolby Prize Pack

2012-01-13T17:53:00.000-08:00

Remember: All money donated goes to the winner of the Living Beyond Tolerance scholarship. If you want to apply, please do. We are taking applications until March 1, 2012.

If you have any questions about anything at all, try here: lauren51990 AT aol DOT com

All giveaways are open to the U.S. only, unless otherwise noted. Sorry International readers!

The first bid must be at least $10, unless otherwise noted. This is because most of the auctions are a prize pack of books, so we want to make sure the authors donations are doing good for the scholarship.

The end dates will be different for each auction, so pay attention to the bottom of the post.

Win a Prize Pack of books by Tom Dolby

Included - Secret Society, The Trust, and Girls Who Like Boys Who Like Boys

To learn more about Tom or his books, check out the website.

First Bid: $10, then go up in at least $1 increments. You can go up more than that though.

Ends: Friday, January 20 at 11:59 P.M.

Auction #2: Ellen Wittlinger Prize Pack OVER

2012-01-09T12:29:00.000-08:00

Prize Pack of Ellen Wittlinger's books

Included: Love and Lies and Parrotfish

To learn more about this author or her books, check out her website.

First Bid: $5, then go up in at least $1 increments. You can go up more than that though.

Auction has Ended

Auction # 1: Alex Sanchez Prize Pack of Books! OVER

2012-01-05T10:25:00.000-08:00

The first auction is starting today.

Remember: All money donated goes to the winner of the Living Beyond Tolerance scholarship. If you want to apply, please do. We are taking applications until March 1, 2012.

If you have any questions about anything at all, try here: lauren51990 AT aol DOT com

All giveaways are open to the U.S. only, unless otherwise noted. Sorry International readers!

The first bid must be at least $10, unless otherwise noted. This is because most of the auctions are a prize pack of books, so we want to make sure the authors donations are doing good for the scholarship.

The end dates will be different for each auction, so pay attention to the bottom of the post.

Today's Auction - Prize Pack of Alex Sanchez Novels

Included:

Rainbow Boys, Rainbow Road, Getting It, The God Box, and Boyfriends with Girlfriends

To learn more about Alex and/or his novels, check out his website!

First Bid: $10, then go up in at least $1 increments. You can go up more than that though.

This auction has ended!

Online Auctions Coming - Get Ready to Bid!

2012-01-01T12:55:00.000-08:00

do not own photo

The auctions to raise money for the Let's Get Beyond Tolerance scholarship will last through January. We are still taking more donations. To really raise more money, we'd definitely need some more donations. Thankfully, we already have a set $250. That is ALL because of author, Jessica Verday. She's an amazing person so if you "win" the scholarship, or even if you just feel like it, you should go and thank her.

Thanks to everyone else that offered something up for the auction as well. I really appreciate it and I hope we can honor an amazin person. So please, spread the word about the auctions and the scholarship. Apply and bid. Make this worth it for everyone that helped out and maybe we can do it again next year.

Happy New Year everyone. The auctions will start going up ASAP!

Living Beyond Tolerance Scholarship

2011-05-16T17:27:00.000-07:00

Do Not Own

Living Beyond Tolerance Scholarship

Qualifications as well as the timeline of when you can enter/the auctions has been edited. Read for more:
To enter-

*You must classify as LGBT or an LGBT Ally

*You must live in the United States to be elegible (Any State!)

*You must be between the ages of 15 to 25 when you ENTER

*You must be somehow working to make sure everyone is more than tolerated, but accepted

*To apply for the scholarship…write an essay between 1-4 pages about why you deserve to win and personally fit the bill for this scholarship. Email it to: shootingstarsmag@aol.com with the subject line:

Scholarship: (and then your name)

*You must be planning to use this money for education of some sort, whether that’s high school, college, technical school, etc.

*You can apply from the beginning of June 2011 to March 1, 2012

*The upcoming auctions will be during the month of January 2012, which is how we’ll raise most of the money for the scholarship…people can simply donate as well if they wish.

-if you have something you want to donate FOR the auctions, please email here: lauren51990 AT aol DOT com and put "donation item" in the subject! If you need good donation ideas, check out this site.

*This will be at least a $250 scholarship. Whatever is not donated through the auction/people’s kindness…I will fill in the rest. The goal is to raise more than that so the scholarship can do more good for the winner though!

Please enter if you qualify and if you do not...tell those you know or simply post about it online so that word can spread. We need donations for the auctions and people willing to bid...but to really make this work, we need applicants!

Ultimately, the winner will be decided by me and a panel of judges. Those judges will be decided on in the future!

Bridge the Gap is Back With...

2011-05-16T17:14:00.000-07:00

Bridge the Gap is the second blog I've started. First, it was meant to cover entertainment from non-USA countries. It got to be a bit too much...and I figured I'd just add that type of things to Shooting Stars Mag, because I still love international books and films and whatnot. My second take on the blog was to let people know about giveaways and contests throughout the blog/online world. That lasted for a bit, and while I still enter tons of giveaways, I don't really post about them on blogs anymore. I tend to stick to the other entries more.

However, I'm back with this blog for a couple reasons. One, the title fits a lot of different themes (Bridge the Gap), I didn't want to create an entirely new blog for something that won't last too much past 2011 I don't think (but perhaps!) and I already have some followers here...so why not keep those starting out?

Anyway...Bridge the Gap is back with my new project. If you know me, this isn't shocking. I often try and take on a bunch but I really want this to happen and I hope everyone out there can help me in their own little (or big) way.

I'm currently running auctions for two very deserving people and I hope you'll check that out for now as it will be ending next month and we'll split the money down the middle. My latest idea involves auctions though. This time though, all the money raised through the auctions and just kind donations will go to ONE person...for the most part...and it will be as a scholarship. This person must identify as LGBT or an Ally.

I'm going to make a post after this that has more full details for those that wish to apply for the scholarship or want to spread the word to anybody that might wish to enter!

i do not own the above photo!

Hollyoaks the Soundtrack: Part 1

2009-04-13T09:42:00.000-07:00

Yeah Yeah, I know it's been forever since I've posted something here but you know...that's how it goes sometimes.

Okay, if you've read either this blog or Shooting Stars Mag before then chances are you have heard me talk about the UK soap Hollyoaks. I really wish I had this show so I could watch the full episodes, but courtesy of awesome youtube people, I've been able to follow certain character's storylines for the most part...I get most of it, at least.

Through my love of Hollyoaks, I have come to realize that a lot of the actors and actresses on the show can sing. No big surprise there, as a lot of people in the U.S. have similar dual talents. However, I think that Hollyoaks should have their very own SOUNDTRACK, with songs by PAST and PRESENT cast members. These songs of course would be cover songs, most likely, as that is the easiest way to go.

It would be amazing and I'm sure a lot of people would pick up a copy, especially the U.S. fans of the show that can't really enjoy all things Hollyoaks based on where we live, and the c.d. could give a percent of the money to a charity or something too if they wanted. Basically, it should just happen.

"Use Somebody"-Gerard McCarthey (plays Kris Fisher)

"Hear You Me"-James Sutton (played John Paul McQueen)

"Molly's Chamber"-Barry Sloaned (played Niall)

"Take a Chance on Me" - Jodi Albert (played Debbie Dean). Also includes Carley Stenson (plays Steph Dean)

"Candyman"-Carley Stenson (plays Steph Dean)

Hollyoaks the Soundtrack: Part 2

2009-04-13T09:23:00.000-07:00

"Jailhouse Rock"-Chris Fountain (plays Justin Burton)

"Unbelievable"-Gemma Merna (plays Carmel McQueen) and Andrew Moss (plays Rhys Ashworth). This song also includes Carley Stenson (plays Steph Dean) and Chris Fountain (plays Justin Burton)

T-Rex Medley-Kevin Sacre (played Jake Dean), Loui Batley (plays Sarah Barnes), Summer Strallen (played Summer). This also includes Gerard McCarthey (plays Kris Fisher).

"Amy Josh Forever" by the Baby Diegos- Ashley Slanina-Davies (plays Amy Barnes)

"Play" by the Dirty Diegos - Hollie Jay Bowes (plays Michaela McQueen). If you youtube this song, you'll find the actual video.

Now, those are just ten examples of people that can sing, and not all of the videos are ONE person singing...so really it would probably be more. The following are people that I know or heard can sing, but I couldn't find a video for them.

Sonny Flood (Josh Ashworth)
and
Garnon Davies (Elliott)

Life is Beautiful DVD Review (Italy)

2009-03-12T18:57:00.000-07:00

Life is Beautiful
DVD Review by Lauren
Country: Italy

Summary from Amazon (Product Description):

An inspired motion picture masterpiece, LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL was nominated for 7 Academy Awards(R) -- winning 3 Oscars, including one for Best Actor Robert Benigni. In this extraordinary tale, Guido (Benigni) -- a charming but bumbling waiter who's gifted with a colorful imagination and an irresistible sense of humor -- has won the heart of the woman he loves and created a beautiful life for his young family. But then, that life is threatened by World War II ... and Guido must rely on those very same strengths to save his beloved wife and son from an unthinkable fate! Honored with an overwhelming level of critical acclaim, this truly exceptional, utterly unique achievement will lift your spirits and capture your heart!

I decided to post that above to help you learn a bit about the overall story, as I wasn't entirely sure how to go about doing it myself. Life is Beautiful was an amazing and powerful film. Benigni did a tremendous job as director and actor. The movie has comedy, definitely, but it also has heart and you realize the sadness and pain behind what Guido's character is not telling his young son.

I've heard various people's thoughts on this film, with some liking it and others thinking it's not appropriate. As you can already tell, I think it's a fantastic film. It still shows the horror of living in a concentration camp, and gives a new view on WWII with the types of lives Itlalians lived.

If you've seen this film, what did you think? If you haven't, I highly recommend it. The beginning is more light then the second half, just to forewarn you (I was told as well, so I was prepared).

I just want to mention that Giorgio Cantarini, who plays the son of Guido, was absolutely amazing. It's hard to remember that he was only about four or five, I believe, when they filmed this movie. He did a great job and was so adorable!

Recommended Film!

The Suicide Shop by Jean Teule (France) + New Blog!!

2009-02-11T11:20:00.000-08:00

The Suicide Shop by Jean Teule
Review by: Lauren

The Suicide Shop, set in a futuristic world, is about the Tuvache family who sells the means for people to kill themselves (ropes tied for hanging, poison in bottles, and more). Mishima, Lucrece, and their children Vincent, Marilyn, and Alan are in the business to help others, though they cannot personally use any of their products. When asked why not, their mother replies that “I’ve told you a hundred times: because it’s impossible. Who’d look after the shop?” However, the parents have tried out one item and greatly regret this decision for most of the book. You see, they tested a condom with a hole in it (for those that want to die from an STD) and the product was their last son Alan who is a disgrace to the moody family. After all, he’s just too happy!

Alan is the type of kid who likes to draw fun pictures, sing, and smile at his parents. But if you have parents that are dealing with death everyday, this is definitely not their type of child. The family tries to do all they can to change him and make him just a little bit more morose, but nothing ever seems to work. As time goes on, Alan even seems to be rubbing off on the rest of the family, showing them the good and happy in life. At one point, he’s talking to a customer who believes that they are horrible looking and Alan replies with “How are you monstrous? What on earth are you saying? You’re like everyone else: the same number of ears, eyes, a nose…What’s the difference?”

Each chapter is relatively short and overall, the book reads a lot like little short stories that are all connected. Even though this story is called The Suicide Shop, it’s actually a very amusing read and will most likely have you laughing out loud at some points. It also has a great message though, underneath it all, and that is the love of life, just like Alan is trying to show his family.

I must say though that the ending had me quite shocked. I didn’t see it coming at all, but after some thought, I think it’s fitting. This is a quick read that is definitely recommended!

http://www.gallicbooks.co.uk/
French Novel that was Translated into English for a Publisher in England

~~~~~~

On another note, I wanted to mention a new blog that you should all check out. Authors Toni Hargis and Michael Harling (I've got guest blogs/interviews from them on here) have banded together to talk about an American in the UK and a gal from England in the U.S.

http://pondparleys.blogspot.com/

What Countries Do YOU Want To Know About?!

2009-02-08T16:36:00.000-08:00

I've had a lot of people offer to help me out with ideas for other countries and I seriously appreciate it. I'm sure I'll be coming to you all in the future with questions. However, I wanted to give everyone ELSE a chance to learn about other countries....whether it's entertainment related or not.

Now, my idea is to find someone who is from that country (or if we can't, perhaps someone who is living there at the moment or has visited) to answer the reader's questions.

If you fall under any of the above categories and don't mind answering questions, let me know with the name of the country.

As for everyone else, what country do YOU want to hear about? Leave your thoughts in the comments and I'll get to work on the first one as soon as I can!

My Mailbox!

2009-01-31T21:12:00.000-08:00

These are the four books that I recieved that fit the foreign criteria for Bridge the Gap: England, Canada, Japan, and Turkey (I believe). I can't wait to read them!! You might remember I posted about Mercury Under My Tongue already, and I got an email offering a review copy...as well as some other random novels that are non-American. I OF COURSE accepted and here you go!

Leave your thoughts and I'll talk more in the comments:

The City in Crimson Cloak by Asli Erdogan

Vibrator by Mari Akasaka

Milk, Sulphate, and Alby Starvation by Martin Millar

Mercury Under my Tongue by Sylvain Trudel

Mike Harling Guest Post (UK)

2009-01-29T13:53:00.000-08:00

Cultural Exchange
A Guest Post by Mike Harling, author of Postcards from Across the Pond
Mike's interview!

I was born in America; it seemed the natural thing to do. And there were times, I kid you not, when I would reflect on the rest of the world, marveling at how so many people could lack the good fortune or foresight to not have been born in America. Or at least Canada.

There was also a time when it seemed to me that anyone who really mattered came from America, as well. I shared this observation with my mother, capping it off with, "Even Jesus was an American." I was quite young.

My mom set me straight on the Jesus theory, but couldn't deny that the others on my list were true blue, as was I.

Over the years, I discovered the joys of travel, but never strayed too far from home (in a place as big as America, that's not as contradictory as it sounds) and certainly never considered leaving it. But then I did. (Short version: met a woman. Long version: buy the book.) Now I believe that every American should be required to spend a year living abroad. (In the interest of keeping their “Out of Nation” experience from being too much of a culture shock, however, it might be best if they started off visiting countries with indoor plumbing.)

Even the non-Americans I have posed this idea to think it’s a good one, as broadening the world-view of the United States is advantageous for all concerned, provided the Americans in question don’t come to “visit” as part of a large camouflage-clad group toting rifles and driving armored vehicles.

These days I reserve my wonder for the people in America who have never had the opportunity of experiencing a different culture; and I can’t help feeling a little sorry for them. They will never know the strange thrill that comes from seeing the weather map on the news not showing an aerial view of their own home county (like when you visited Baltimore that time on your school trip). They will never experience the simultaneous shock of astonishment, disbelief and disappointment as they ride down the A-303 and ask their travel companion about those strange rocks in the field off to the right and receive the reply: "Oh them; that's Stonehenge."

England, despite my erstwhile supposition of ubiquitous Americanism, figures large in our culture, or at least it did in mine. Remember that place the lady rode her Cock Horse to? Yeah, it's here. I drove through it a few months back. And the Muffin Man, well, he doesn't live in Drury lane any more, but Drury lane is still there. Also, once you get out of America you start realizing that many notable people (Prince Charles, for instance) are not, in fact, American. I mean, Oasis; who knew they were from Manchester? I thought they came from Seattle.

Even if you can’t arrange to live overseas, you should at least pop over for a visit. The UK is a good place to start because they sort of speak the same language and we share a great deal of heritage. And now would be the optimum time, while the dollar hasn’t free-fallen quite as far as the pound and you can actually get a decent rate of exchange. If you’re on a limited budget, visit London; it’s like New York City in that you can't swing a tea cosy without hitting something famous. On a pleasant day you could go for a stroll and take in Trafalgar Square, The Tower of London, Piccadilly Circus, Big Ben, Westminster Abby and Buckingham Palace and still have time for a pint and a visit to the gift shoppe. That’s value for money, and not always possible in other countries (try visiting Mt Rushmore and Old Faithful in the same day).

So think about it. Come for a visit or, if you can swing it, a longer stay, because nothing compares to the adventure inherent in the daily navigation of a foreign culture. Even after seven years I still, on occasion, look around myself and think, “Holy shit, I’m in England.” And being amazing by your own life is a great way to live.

Mike Harling Interview (UK)

2009-01-29T13:46:00.000-08:00

Interview with: Mike Harling
Questions by: Lauren
Website
Blog
Mike's Guest Post

Mike, an American who moved to England, has written a book,Postcards from Across the Pond, all about his experiences there. Truthfully, I have yet to read it myself but I really hope too soon, especially after reading the guest post Mike did as well!

1. What made you decide on the title, Postcards from Across the Pond? Was this a first choice or did it come later? If it wasn't your first idea, what were some discarded ones?

It just seemed natural. It was the first thing that came to mind and I liked it and continued to use it; I have not regretted it.

2. When reading your book, what can people expect to find?

My book is very much like my website and blog; humorous articles on what it is like being an American living in the UK. The essays in the book are not featured on the website, but the style and subject matter is similar. So if you enjoy what you read on the website, you’ll like the book. And vice versa.

3. Do you have plans to write anything else in the near future? Will it be non-fiction or perhaps fiction?

My plan has always been to be a novelist. I fell into humor writing quite by accident and the fact that I have published a humor book still surprises me. I have written several novel manuscripts and my most recent one is still out there looking for a publisher. I am also working on my next novel.

4. For those who don't live in or haven't visited England (especially other Americans), what would you tell them you like the best and the least?

Both are difficult to pin down; there is so much about England that I love and very little I don’t like. And it depends upon the person. History buffs can’t get enough of the castles, Roman ruins and places like Stonehenge, and others might like to tour the countryside and take in the views. And everyone likes the accents. As for me, I like the fact that I can get to so many places without having to drive for three days. What I dislike is the British Yob culture (football hooligans, lager louts, etc.).

5. What other books should everyone be reading these days?

If you like books such as “Postcards From Across the Pond,” there are others out there of a similar ilk. “Rules Britannia,” by Toni Hargis is a good one, as is Chris Rae’s “The Septic’s Companion.” Both are funny and informative.

6. Since Bridge the Gap is about all things non-American, what is something you would like to see featured at some point?

It’s been fun bringing a glimpse of England to your readers, so I would like to see the same done for other countries, such as Spain, Latvia, Holland, Thailand, etc.

Shall We Dansu? (Japan)

2009-01-27T17:49:00.000-08:00

Shall We Dansu?
Review by: Lauren
Country: Japan

Shall We Dansu? is the original film which produced the American remake, Shall We Dance?, starring Jennifer Lopez. Shall We Dansu? chronicles a man named Sugiyama, who is not at all happy with his everyday life as an accountant. He has a wife, a daughter, and a nice house, but deep inside, he’s hoping for more. On his way home from work one evening, he sees a young girl gazing out the window of a dance studio. From then on, he’s mesmerized, and soon finds himself signing up for dance classes.

At first, his wife is pleased that he’s getting out, having fun, and being a lot less serious, but as he begins spending more and more time away from home-without revealing the dancing-she soon begins to worry. Thus, she goes to a private detective to find out the true meaning behind her husband’s mood change and sudden disappearances.

I’d seen the American version when it first came out and definitely enjoyed it, but I must say that the original is a lot better. Now, if you see the Japanese version, you might realize that it’s a lot similar to the American one and the language is pretty much the main difference. However, this is the original and I feel it’s worth a watch for simply that, especially if you liked Lopez’ version. You’ll find yourself with many emotions throughout this film: happiness, laughter, anger, sadness, understanding, and more.

Naoto Takenaka did a great job as Aoki, a man who loves to dance, yet can’t bring himself to do so without wearing one ridiculous wig! Aoki is definitely a light and fun character that brings a lot of humor to this film, yet he also shows his own pain and sadness, making you feel for him just as much as Sugiyama and the rest.

This is a simple film, yet is filled with a lot of emotion, and is sure to capture the heart of a lot of viewers. Forget about the subtitles, and simply give this one a chance!

If you’ve seen the American one, now is the time to see the original and if you haven’t seen either, then most definitely start with this one.

Wish-List Wednesday (Ireland)

2009-01-21T10:11:00.001-08:00

The Script Myspace

I really want the debut album from this band The Script. You might have heard them on the radio in the U.S. but they are actually from Dublin, Ireland.

Their album won't be released here until March 17, but if you're from the UK, it should already be available.

Here is the album's tracklist:

1. We Cry
2. Before The Worst
3. Talk You Down
4. The Man Who Can't Be Moved
5. Breakeven
6. Rusty Halo
7. The End Where I Begin
8. Fall For Anything
9. If You See Kay
10. I'm Yours

Now, if you are from the U.S. you might be wondering what song of theirs you could have heard. It's called "The Man Who Can't Be Moved"

Video: The Ryes (UK)

2009-01-19T18:54:00.001-08:00

I figured it was time for another video. The Ryes are a band from the UK who I found out about recently. I personally think they are amazing and would love to own any music from them. They have a great sound, and the singer's voice is amazing.

To hear more from them, go to their myspace!

For now, here is the acoustic version of their song "How Come Loretta."

Now that you've watched the video or simply listened to the song itself, what do you think? I'd love to hear your thoughts, whether you've heard them before or this is your first time!! Good. Bad. Leave your thoughts and I'll write you back.

Just a Question of Love DVD Review (France)

2009-01-15T12:19:00.000-08:00

Just a Question of Love (France)
Review by: Lauren

Just a Question of Love tells the story of the relationship between Laurent and Cédric. Laurent is a college student living with and pretending to be in love with his best friend Carole, to hide the fact that he’s gay. His aunt and uncle’s son, Marc, was also gay but kicked out and abandoned when he revealed the fact. Even when Marc falls ill and eventually passes, Laurent is the only one in his family willing to go and visit him. As such, Laurent keeps his sexuality a secret and uses Carole as a cover for his family, who loves he too much to be honest and risk losing them.

During school, Laurent is given an internship to help him graduate, for he’d been slacking off ever since Marc died. This is where he officially meets Cédric, who is in charge of his internship. As time goes on, the two finally begin a relationship, but Laurent still refuses to be honest and Cédric won’t live a lie. Though the two are in love, they can’t seem to reconcile their differences, leading to a very emotional second half.

Just a Question of Love is a French film (though I watched it with the English subtitles) that is emotional, sweet, funny, passionate, and true. This isn’t a big action film, but rather one that deals on a more simple level to provide you with a story that could ring true for a lot of people. The main actors Cyrille Thouvenin (Laurent) and Stéphan Guérin-Tillié (Cédric) did an amazing job. Their chemistry on screen made me believe that this story could be real.

Just a Question of Love is a great film and I’d definitely recommend it to those who are at all interested. I especially love the overall message, which was simply and beautifully put by Laurent: “It’s not a question of gay or straight. It’s just a question of love.”

Wish-List Wednesday

2009-01-14T16:57:00.000-08:00

Mercury Under My Tongue (Canada)
by Sylvain Trudel (Author), Sheila Fischman (Translator)

We all knew him during high school—that 17-year-old notebook-toting sage, feeling deeply, spouting out tiny poems, acting just a little too wise for his age—but, despite the factors belying it, still being a 17-year-old. Frederick Langlois, the protagonist of Mercury Under the Tongue, is of that ilk, a younger Kerouac with a sweet nihilism, a strong sense of family ties, and a lingering (if sometimes resentful) sense of responsibility to others.

The book traces a short span of the protagonist's life in a hospital ward peopled with acutely ill adolescents, as they sneak out to go see the newborns in the maternity ward and play games of imagination where they cast themselves as already being in Purgatory. The book travels from his distant but fond relationship with his therapist (and his mute delight at catching a glimpse of her cleavage), through comic moments on the hospital ward, his developing camaraderie with other patients of his age, the survival of some, the loss of others, a brief glimpse of romantic love, and a final reckoning with himself and his family, which is both dispassionate and deeply felt.

This week, I only have one thing listed for Wish-List Wednesday, though I don't believe anybody commented on last week's post, which includes a few books from the UK, so feel free to leave your thoughts!!!

Anyway, I've read a review of this one awhile ago and it sounded good, and then I saw someone else say they'd receieved Mercury Under My Tongue to review and I knew I just had to read this once I heard of it again...especially since it would fit under Bridge the Gap's "foreign" standards aka Non-American.

What do you think? Have you read/heard of this?

In Your Mailbox

2009-01-11T12:21:00.000-08:00

I figured it was about time I finally participated in The Story Siren's In Your Mailbox. Now, when it comes to reviewing things, especially books, I can be a bit slow. I'm mentioning this because if you see something in these posts and want to see a review, let me know and I'll try and be quicker, but my main reason for doing this is to slightly promote everything BEFORE the reviews are posted (Chelsea from The Page Flipper said this and I agreed!).

Everything that I got for Bridge the Gap's In My Mailbox were things that I bought myself!

First, I got The Angel Maker by Stefan Brijs
This novel fits Bridge the Gap's theme because the author is from Belgium.

Summary: A literary page-turner about one man’s macabre ambition to create life—and secure immortality

The village of Wolfheim is a quiet little place until the geneticist Dr. Victor Hoppe returns after an absence of nearly twenty years. The doctor brings with him his infant children—three identical boys all sharing a disturbing disfigurement. He keeps them hidden away until Charlotte, the woman who is hired to care for them, begins to suspect that the triplets—and the good doctor— aren’t quite what they seem. As the villagers become increasingly suspicious, the story of Dr. Hoppe’s past begins to unfold, and the shocking secrets that he has been keeping are revealed. A chilling story that explores the ethical limits of science and religion, The Angel Maker is a haunting tale in the tradition of The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde and Frankenstein. Brought to life by internationally bestselling author Stefan Brijs, this eerie tale promises to get under readers’ skin.

Next, I got the film Just a Question of Love, which fits the theme because it's a French film (English subtitles). I have watched this film a couple times now, so you can hopefully expect a review in the next couple days. I just have to say now, however, that I really love this film and the overall message is just brilliant.

For now, here is the Summary: Cyrille Thouvenin stars in this bittersweet tale of a twenty-something man reluctant to come out of the closet. Laurent keeps his homosexuality a secret, but things get complicated when he falls in love with Cedric. Openly gay, Cedric has no problem introducing Laurent as his boyfriend, even to his own mother. But Laurent's need for secrecy forces Cedric to give him an ultimatum: Either Laurent comes out of the closet, or Cedric will leave him.

Oscar Wilde and a Death of No Importance (UK)

2009-01-10T21:45:00.000-08:00

Oscar Wilde and a Death of No Importance
By: Gyles Brandreth
Review by: Lauren

If you've read my zine Shooting Stars Mag for awhile, you might remember this review. However, I wanted to re-post it on this blog since it fits the theme and I think it's a great, unique novel. I have the sequel at my house now and I can't wait to read it!

Oscar Wilde (author/playwright), Robert Sherard (poet/journalist), and Arthur Conan Doyle (author) come together in this fictional story of murder and suspense. Told in Sherard's point of view, Oscar Wilde and a Death of No Importance, fully begins when Wilde comes across the dead body of a friend, Billy Wood. However, once Wilde tries to go back and prove there has been a murder, the body is missing and the room has been cleaned.

Doyle sends Wilde to his friend Aidan Fraser of the Scotland Yard, but with no body, Fraser feels he can't start an investigaion. Knowing that a friend of his has been killed, Wilde sets out on his own search to bring justice to this crime.

The story is full of mystery, murder, intellect, and Wilde's witticisms. In the fashion of Doyle's creation, Sherlock Holmes, Wilde has a keen eye for detail and becomes a skilled detective himself. Highly recommended.

Wish-List Wednesday

2009-01-07T16:46:00.000-08:00

If you know my zine, Shooting Stars, then you should be aware of my newest addition called Wish-List Wednesday. A lot of book bloggers have Waiting on Wednesday, where they post about a book that has yet to be released, but they really want to read. Since Shooting Stars was never just books, I figured a Wish-List would be more appropriate, so I could post about future books or items and even things that are already out. Here is my addition for Bridge the Gap (meaning everything is foreign…)

Hollyoaks Perfume (the girls’ version of course!)

I know some people think that it’s lame for Hollyoaks to have a perfume, but I think it’s fun and as an American, I’ll take anything Hollyoaks!

For those that aren’t aware, Hollyoaks is a soap opera in the UK. I found it via the John Paul/Craig storyline and became hooked, though I only really know certain people’s stories. Since the U.S. doesn’t get this show, I’m reduced to what I can find via youtube or other websites. I love that it’s a soap opera, so it’s on everyday, yet it doesn’t feel like the soaps we have in America. I honestly refer to Hollyoaks as the UK’s Degrassi, since it kind of has that vibe…various stories about the kids and the adults (though most of the “kids” are older on Hollyoaks), with Hollyoaks having more “out-there” storylines….that I love! The reason I hate Hollyoaks being on every day is because they don’t release the “seasons” or whatever on DVD (and I know they have different DVD players, but I basically have no way of having full episodes in an easier manner)

Anyway, that’s just my “intro” to the world of Hollyoaks. You’ll hear more about the show and its actors/actresses in time because I’ve become invested in quite a few of their future careers…meaning I want more!!
You can get the perfume at the Perfume Shop. There is one for the boys and the girls.

Ostrich Boys by Keith Gray

Kenny, Sim and Blake are about to embark on a remarkable journey. Stealing the urn that contains the ashes of their best friend Ross, they set out to travel 261 miles from Cleethorpes on the English east coast to the tiny hamlet of Ross in southern Scotland. After a depressing and dispiriting funeral they feel that taking Ross to Ross will be a fitting memorial for a fifteen-year-old boy who changed all their lives through his friendship. Little do they realise just how much Ross can still affect life for them even though he's dead.

This book has already been released, but I still really want to read it. I’m not sure if it’s out in the U.S though….does anybody know? Either way, I think it sounds great and hopefully I’ll get a chance to read it soon.

The Carbon Diaries 2015 by Saci Lloyd

It’s January 1st, 2015, and the UK is the first nation to introduce carbon dioxide rationing, in a drastic bid to combat climate change. As her family spirals out of control, Laura Brown chronicles the first year of rationing with scathing abandon. Will her mother become one with her inner wolf? Will her sister give up her weekends in Ibiza? Does her father love the pig more than her? Can her band the dirty angels make it big? And will Ravi Datta ever notice her?

In these dark days, Laura deals with the issues that really matter: love, floods and pigs.

The Carbon Diaries 2015 is one girl’s drastic bid to stay sane in a world unravelling at the seams.

I believe this is out now as well. Doesn’t it sound amazing? I really love the unique premise!

Broken Soup by Jenny Valentine

An intriguing, compelling and moving new novel from the award-winning author of Finding Violet Park. When the good-looking boy with the American accent presses the dropped negative into Rowan's hand, she's sure it's all a big mistake. But next moment he's gone, lost in the crowd of bustling shoppers. And she can't afford to lose her place in the checkout queue -- after all, if she doesn't take the groceries home, nobody else will. Rowan has more responsibilities than most girls her age. These days, she pretty much looks after her little sister single-handedly -- which doesn't leave much time for friends or fun. So when she finds out that Bee from school saw the whole thing, it piques her curiosity. Who was the boy? Why was he so insistent that the negative belonged to Rowan?

I haven’t read anything by Jenny Valentine yet, but all of her work sounds great. I hope to be able to read something by her soon…perhaps starting with Broken Soup? Who knows?

If you want to see my Wish-List for Shooting Stars, go here!

Robyn: With Every Heartbeat (Sweden)

2009-01-03T12:47:00.001-08:00

I was addicted to this song for awhile last year but ended up not listening too it for some after. However, author Josh Aterovis mentioned this artist and song in his list of 2008 things he loved and I remembered my own love for it.

Here you go: Robyn's song "With Every Heartbeat."
As you can see from the title, Robyn is a pop singer from Sweden.
Her Myspace!

Not the actual video, but the song is the same of course!

Guest Blog: Toni Summers Hargis (UK)

2008-12-30T21:30:00.000-08:00

Guest Blog: Toni Summers Hargis

The Other English

I married an American in 1990 and breezed over to live in the States without much thought of what it might be like. Well, how different could it be? They speak the same language, eat the same food and wear the same clothes don’t they? Err, no.
My English mother visited us shortly after the wedding. Being jet lagged, she was worried about over-sleeping, so on her first night she gracefully turned to my husband and said, “If I’m not up by eight, would you mind knocking me up?”

Fortunately, my husband had lived for three years in London, so knew exactly what she meant, but also took great delight in explaining that in the States, the phrase “to knock someone up” would only ever mean to get them pregnant. Of course, in the UK, it can also mean “to knock on someone’s door in order to wake them”. Tee hee.

Another thing I didn’t fully appreciate was that I would have to drop some of my favorite words. Since I have three children, I am quite often tired, and the English word of choice for me is “knackered”. Unfortunately it just doesn’t translate at all in the States, and I end up resorting to the boring “quite tired”. I have given up most of my swearing since becoming a responsible parent, but the expressive “sodding” can still escape from time to time. It can be interchanged with “bloody”, which Americans understand, but somehow with “sodding” you can spit out so much more venom. Most Americans have never heard it before, forcing many Brits to seek out other Brits just so they can sit around and say “sodding” as well as “the dog’s bollocks” and “chuffed” without encountering blank looks.

After all this time, I still regularly come across words, phrases and references that leave me guessing. Most of the time the language differences are funny and interesting, but once in a while you can really make a fool of yourself. I have found it’s much safer and easier to admit my ignorance as soon as possible, since sometimes my guesses at American words have been about one hundred and eighty degrees incorrect. I mean, come on – would you know what a “boondoggle” was without some form of explanation?. Does the phrase “bought the farm” suggest anything, or references to your “druthers”? These are real Americanisms that left me clueless when I first heard them. (Translations – useless or time wasting activity; died; and personal preferences, respectively).

Toni Summers Hargis
Author, “Rules, Britannia; An Insider’s Guide to Life in the United Kingdom”, (2006) St. Martin’s Press

Website
Blog

Welcome to Bridge the Gap!

2008-12-29T19:52:00.000-08:00

Hello Hello!

My name is Lauren and I run an online zine called Shooting Stars Mag. You can find the link to that in the right hand sidebar. The zine is all about entertainment, and this blog will be very similar...except Bridge the Gap won't have anything American (or nothing completely American). Shooting Stars Mag, on the other hand, might have some non-American posts but will be mostly American.

The reason I'm trying to separate the two is because as an American, I find it kind of annoying when other countries get all of our things (music, TV, music, etc.) and yet, we hardly ever get the things they produce. Shooting Stars Zine, as I said above, is all things entertainment and I'll post just about anything (even cross-posting things from here if people want me too), but Bridge the Gap is simply for those other Americans out there looking for more foreign types of entertainment and news, as well as those who aren't American and would like to hear about the things that hit more close to home.

Again, I'm an American teenager and I don't know everything about other countries out there, so I'd love any input, ideas, or help. If you want to hear about something, let me know! I'll even try and get some non-Americans to guest post so you can see an insiders' view of a topic, so to speak.

I want this to be fun. I want to share the things that I've found and love and hopefully help myself and others learn more in the process. After all, America isn't the only country out there, and I know I'm definitely not the only person who wishes we saw more from others.

Thanks for reading this and I hope you stick around. Follow the blog however you wish, keep checking back, and remember: I'm an American Girl Blogging about a Foreign World.

~Lauren