This is the first of two reviews and giveaways at 5 Minutes for Books. Scroll down or click here for the second one.
I had an exciting opportunity to participate in the first ever blogger conference call with bestselling author Nicholas Sparks to mark the release of his novel The Choice. I learned a good bit about him, most of which can be summed up to say that he’s a busy guy. He reads like crazy, which is probably one reason that he writes such readable stuff. Rule number one of being a writer is “Writers read.” He was speaking to us from a hotel room where he had been on a publicity tour for ten days. He had read seven books in that time–a couple of novels and some heavy non-fiction as well. He also works out for a couple of hours every day, coaches a track team, and has started a private school, in addition to being a husband and the father of five children, and oh yeah–writing a bestselling book every year. I will be posting more about 
the interview later this week on my personal blog, Snapshot, if you’d like to hear more of the Q&A, and you can always browse his extensive website, NicholasSparks.com.
When I picked up The Choice, I was drawn in right away. Travis Parker sometimes feels like his life looks like a beer commercial–good times with good friends. All of his buddies have paired off and started families. He enjoys experiencing family life as “Uncle Travis,” but still doesn’t feel like he’s missing out . . . Until he meets his next door neighbor Gabby Holland. Because the story is told as somewhat of a flashback, it pulls the reader along in a suspenseful way. I read this book in only a few sittings, never being satisfied with only one chapter before I turned out the light. Travis Parker is a man’s man, but a man who truly appreciates women, or at least this one particular woman:
There was definitely something about Gabby that interested him. It wasn’t simply that she was attractive; there were pretty women everywhere. There was something about her straightforward intelligence and unforced humor that suggested a grounded sense of right and wrong. Beauty and earthy common sense were a rare combination, yet he doubted she was even aware she possessed it.
I have read a Nicholas Sparks book or two, as well as seeing a couple of the movie adaptations, but it’s been a while. (Incidentally, one question he answered was regarding the differences between the book and the movie projects. He said that he’s always been pleased, and he fully knows what he’s getting into. The same story gets told, even though many of the details end up being changed. Telling a story in a novel is very different from using the visual medium of film, so it often makes sense to make a few changes.) This story did not disappoint, and I will be checking out some of the others that I’ve missed along the way. I’m actually looking forward to reading his memoir, Three Weeks with My Brother. Sparks admitted that the kernel of the idea for most of his books came from either one of his experiences or that of a loved one, and by reading his books in order, one could get an idea what was going on, but pointed to the memoir as the book that clearly revealed the most about him, since it was actually about himself, not just an idea that became a fictionalized account.
The publisher is giving away 5 hardcover books and 5 audiobooks to our readers. Please leave a comment (and state which format you prefer), and come back next week to see if you’ve won. These prizes can ship to either U.S. or Canada. If you want to guide me to my next one by telling me your favorite Sparks’ story, please do!
From last week’s columns:
#46, Beth@Sportsmomma wins Queen of the Castle.The three winners of Dangerous Admissions are
#25 — Cynthia
#40 — Vickie
#37 — Rachel Bolin
5 Minutes for YOU to read, relax, & connect with other moms. We're here to inspire, encourage & empower you.
{ 174 comments… read them below or add one }
Sounds like a really good book : ) Please enter me into your contest for a hardcover book.
Blessings,
BChsMamaof3
I enjoyed the Notebook and the Wedding.
The book sounds very good. Thanks for your reviews.
Sounds great! Enter me for a hardcover book. Thanks!
OOHH!! I am excited:) I am happy with either! Thanks so much!
I love Nicholas Sparks books! Either format works for me…
me. please!
The book sounds great. Thanks for the review and the chance to win a copy. Put me in for a hardcover please.
It does sound like a great book!
I’m a big Nicholas Sparks fan! And since I’m finally getting back into reading as my kiddos are getting older, I would love a chance to win a hardcover copy.
I really want to read this book! I’ve enjoyed his other ones so much.
I would love to win the hard copy of the book. Hes a very talented author. I enjoy reading his books.
You have to read The Notebook! I loved it.
Hardcover, please. Cross my fingers
I love Nicholas Sparks. I’d love to win his hardcover version.
i would love to win the hard cover copy of the book as well!
This book sounds really good.
Would love to win the audiobook.
Thanks
I would love to win the book!
I love, love, love Nicholas Sparks! I would love to win a hardcover of his newest novel. It is so hard for me to choose my favorite. I think The Notebook, A Walk to Remember, and The Wedding are my favorites. Bring tissues!!!
Thanks,
Lisa
I’d love to have a hardcover or audio book. THANKS!
Either format works for me… I would love to win this book!!
I would love a hard copy or an audio copy. I loved the Notebook.
I would love a hardback copy.
Please enter me. i love Nicholas Sparks. i have read almost all of his books. I would prefer the hardback. Thank you.
I would rather read, but would be pleased with either. Thanks!
I’d love to win. Either book or audiobook is fine. Thanks!
this book sounds very interesting, please count me in thanks
Nicholas Sparks is my FAVORITE author! My favorites would have to be “A Walk to Remember” and “The Notebook.” I’d love to win! I’m more of a reader, so I would prefer the hardback, but would be happy with either. Good luck everyone!
Happy Monday!
Jennifer
Count me in! Should I be so lucky I’d prefer a hardback.
I would enjoy either the hardback or the audio. I also really like Nicholas Sparks, and I like “The Wedding”.
You sold me on the book. I’m captivated. Please enter me for a chance to win the book in either format. Thanks!
He writes great books. I have a few of his others. Please enter me for the book format.
I would looove to win a hardcover. I’ve never read Nicholas Sparks but have heard so much good stuff about his stories. Loved the Notebook movie.
Oh, I LOVE Nicolas Sparks! I’d be happy with either format although the book would be my first choice.
WOW. I LOVE Nicholas Sparks! First choice would be hardcover book! I have ALL of his books and the movies made off the books. A Walk to Remember is still my FAVORITE!
Twitter: TheAngelForever
October 15, 2007 at 12:18 pm
I just started reading some of his books and this one sounds great as well. I would love either format.
I would be happy with either format! Thanks for the opportunity!
I have some friends that are always the first one in line for his new books and I have always wanted to check him out. I would love to win one of the hardback books! Thanks!
Please sign me up for the hardback copy. Thanks!
Nicholas Sparks captures me with his words. I would love to win this book for some good time out of my own life and into his world.
Either format would be great!
I would love to read this book. Please enter me for the hardback.
I blogged the giveaway in my Monday Edition of Contests Galore
Huge Nicholas Sparks fan- enter me for the hardback
Please enter me for either of them. Love his books and the movies.
OOPS! My comment had the wrong e-mail address. This is the correct one. Sorry about the second post!
I prefer a hardcover book. Audio books are great for traveling, but not with young kids (they wouldn’t appreciate it, nor allow me to do so while on the road).
Enter me for a hardcover book. Thanks!
This book has intrigued me but I haven’t picked it up yet.
(Actual book format, not audio book for me, please!)
Sounds good, I’m always looking for a good read. I prefer hardback, but would totally use either format.
HI Please enter me for the Nicholas Sparks book. I loved 3 weeks with my brother, probably because it was from the heart and true. It reminded me of my sister and growing up with her. Nicholas Sparks ROCKS! Everything I have read of his is GREAT! Right now I’m reading “The Guardian”. Of coarse “The Notebook is another favorite. All the movies are also good. He’s definately my Favorite author.
the book please
I would love this book, too!
looks like a good pick. i’m in for the audio book please.
I am a reading lover and would love to have a copy of his new book!
I tried to send this to 5minutesformom about a week ago. There is a contest at my blog in honor of Breast Cancer Survival month and you can win a host of goodies such as White Diamonds perfume, a bracelet, teddy bear, etc. Come on by if interested. Deadline to enter is this coming Wednesday at 6pm!
Sorry to place this here, couldn’t find anywhere else to post it in contests.
I would love to add the hardcover copy to my Sparks collection!
Oh how I would love a great book to read! I loved Nicholas Spark’s “The Notebook” so I am sure this would be a great read too!
I would love to have the hardcover (and some free time to actually relax and read it should I win
)
Just read “Dear John” this summer – excellent. Would love to read this book!
Ohhhh this sounds so good! Thanks for such a great review. I would love to add the hardback to my collection!!
Would love either version. Thanks!
Nicholas Sparks is one of my very favorite authors!! I just recently read A Bend In The Road… Very good!
Looking forward to this one! Please enter me to win!
sounds like a great book, I have read a couple of his novels. count me in. Thanks
Sounds like a great book!
I’d love to be entered for a hardcover.
I love Nicholas Spark’s books! Please enter me…I would prefer a hardback, but will take audio if I have to
I would love one of the print copies.
I’d love to win one of the print copies. Thanks for sharing about the interview.
I love all of his books but my favorites are A Walk to Remember and The Notebook. Even if you’ve seen the movies- the books are still a must read! Please enter me!!
I love Nicholas Sparks! I would love to win a hardcover.
Count me in for a hardcover book!
I’d love to win a book!
I love a good book!
This sounds wonderful! It’s just what I need to relax.
Oh I have to win this. Nicolas Sparks is my total favorite. I would love either book or audio.
Ooooh, the hardcover please. I love me some Nicholas Sparks!
I’m a great lover of books and this would go nice in my collection of great reads!
I’ll take either (I didn’t realize he wrote The Notebook– need to read that & see it!)
I’m a BOOK-A-HOLIC!
I’d love to win the hardcover. Thanks!
Count me in!! I love his books!!
I love all of the Nicholas Sparks books I have read. I would love to win the hardback book! Count me in!
Hardcover for me!! I love Nicholas Sparks, he always makes me cry!
This sounds like a great book! I have not read Nicholas Sparks yet, but will be starting now. A hardcover would be perfect.
Thanks!
love Nicholas Sparks! I’d like the audiobook best but would definitely take hardcover.
I’m a big fan of his–I’d love a hardcover book!
Nicholas Sparks is my favorite! I’d like to win one of the hardbacks!!!
I love Nicholas Sparks. Count me in.
Great- I’ve been looking forward to another Nicholas Sparks Mommy nap break- with a book-His books are so readable and my husband enjoys them as well. We loved the Notebook and a Walk to Remeber movies- they are great movies and I’ve turned my mom into a fan as well. thank you for the chance=)
Please enter me for a hardback!
I have read The Wedding and it was a great book. I would love the chance to win another book by a wonderful author.
I love Nicholas Sparks books! The Notebook was a fabulous book. Please enter me in the contest!
I really enjoy this author’s work. I hope I win.
I’d love to win the hardback. He is a wonderful writer. Great review!
I would like to win the audio book
Nicholas Sparks is one of those authors that I specifically look for every time I am at a used book store. I would recommend the Wedding, The notebook or The rescue. Nights in Rodanthe is also a must have.
You mentioned reading Three weeks with my brother, this really is a great memoir. It had me laughing and crying the entire time.
I would love the Audio book of this.
I would love to win the book as well!! I love his stuff!!
I LOVE Nicolas Sparks writings! Please enter me for the book! I would adore it!
I am a huge fan! I love a walk to remember, The notebook,and the guardian. I would love either audiobook or hardcover!
I think he is a great author, please enter me in the contest! Thank you!
This book sounds really good!
I haven’t read a good book in a while! This sounds like just what I need!
I would LOVE a print copy. Nicholas Sparks is my favorite author. I had a baby 8 months ago and would love to read an adult book…
I would love a copy of this book. I have The Notebook and A Walk to Remember on my bookshelf but haven’t actually read them yet. I’ve heard The Choice is good. I don’t use audio books though.
like his books…
Love Nicholas Sparks! Would love a hardcover!
Thanks!
I LOVE LOVE LOVE! Nicholas Sparks’ books! It helps that he’s a local, so I can relate in an unreal way to the surroundings. It’s almost all I’ve read in the past two years. He was at a book signing locally promoting this one, and I missed him by about 5 minutes. I was disappointed, because I was going to have the 7 books I have by him signed, and buy the new one. I, like many others, recommend The Wedding, and True Believer, but only with At First Sight to follow up. TB was my least favorite until I read AFS, and it was redeemed. I’d love either version, really, if I’m lucky enough to win!
He is one of my favorite authors! Please enter me for the audio book. Thanks!
Sounds like a great book. Please enter me for the hard cover.
I’ve loved all the Nicholas Spark’s books I’ve read. The Notebook, A Walk to Remember, The Wedding, they’re all great!
I love these books. Please enter me for a hardcover. Thanks!
Love his books! And it’s about time for a good cry!
The Notebook is my all time favorite book. He is a beautiful writer and I look forward to reading your interview on your blog.
Laura
I would love the audio cassette…would give me something to look forward to while driving
The book sound interesting! I would be interested in the hard cover books.
Hardcover for me please.
Nicholas Sparks is an amazing author! I have read all his novels, my favorite was “The Wedding”. I would love to win the hardback version of his new novel, “The Choice.”
I would love to read one of his hardback books. I’ve never read one or seen one of this movies, so would be interested in checking it out. Thanks!
my sister loves Mr. Sparks and reads him faithfully- I would love to get this for her!
HUGE Nicholas Sparks fan! I would love an audio version of this book so I can listen while I “work” (sew!) Thanks!
I too loved The Notebook!!! Please enter me for the hardback!
I would love the hardcover book. I love him. He’s such a great author for women!
I have read every Nicholas Sparks book [most of them more than once] and am very excited about his newest!
Yeah Baby! This one’s for Me
I would love the hardcover book! I am a big fan of his books.
Sounds great.
CANT WAIT TO GET STARTED READING IT,,LOL,,
Please enter me for the hardcover. Thanks.
The deadline is my birthday! Audio please!
She is one of my favorite authors.
Nicholas Sparks is my favorite! I especially love The Wedding and The Rescue… he has a way of writing that sucks me in and I can’t put the book down until I finish it. I can’t wait to read The Choice!
Hardcover would be my choice.
Sparks is my favorite! I especially love The Wedding and The Rescue… he has a way of writing that sucks me in and I can’t put the book down until I finish it. I can’t wait to read The Choice!
I love Nicholas Sparks as well. I have read all his books. Please enter me into the contest. I would prefer the hardcover but would also be happy with the audio version.
Definitely hard cover books for me!
This sounds great – I’d say hardcover – but it doesn’t really matter.
I would love a chance to win the hardcover copy. I’ve read all of his other books and own about half of them. I’ve been looking forward to reading this one.
I love Nicholas Sparks’ books and can’t wait to read this one. Please enter me in the contest!
I love Nicholas Sparks’ books and can’t wait to read this one. Please enter me in the contest!
I’d like the hardcover please
I would love to win a hardback copy! My favorite book of his is The Notebook, it is a tear jerker…have tissue handy;-)
My mother-in-law and I always read Sparks’ books together. It’s a fun little bonding adventure between the two of us!
Id like a hardcover book. angelaandmelos (@) yahoo.com
great review – I knew you had “journalist” in you! If I don’t win a book, may I borrow yours?
Looks like a wonderful book!
LOVE LOVE LOVE N.S. : ) Please enter me into your contest for a book
Thanks for the opportunity!
ooh, audiobook please!
I would love the audiobook, thanks
Let’s see….how about the audiobook, but if you draw my number and all those are gone, I’ll take a hardcover. Will that work?
Love Nicholas Sparks….sign me up please! Either format works for me. Thanks!
I would love to add this to my Nicolas Sparks collection!
I’m looking for another good read. Count me in for a hardcover copy!
I love Nicholas Sparks Books. I have read every single one of them except “the choice” which I do have on hold at the library. I have also seen the movie adaptations of his books, but the books are always better, hands down.
I sometimes post about books in my blog. I’m currently reading “Marly and Me”. I’ll post about it soon!
P.S. I perfer hardcover as I am deaf and can’t hear the audio books.
The book sounds great – count me in !!
I really want to read this book. Please enter me in the contest
I would REALLY lve to have this book……Then pass it on to someone else to enjoy.
I’d like the hardcover please
I just found this site, so I hope I’m not too late to enter… if not, then I would most definitely LOVE a copy of the book to read. Which I will then promptly pass along to someone else!!
I would love to win a hardcover book for my sister in law (she’s a big fan of Nicholas Sparks). Thanks!
audio book which i will listen to while wearing my Christmas Shoes
I would love to enter. I enjoy Nicholas Sparks, and am just reading 3 weeks with my brother right now.
Hardcover, please!
Hardcover – my mind wanders easily with audiobooks.
love to have it
Nicholas Sparks writes of hope
I prefer hard cover! Thanks so much!
Sparks is my favorite author. I would prefer a hard cover copy.
good luck 2 ALL
I love this author! I would prefer a hard cover copy.
Hardcover would be marvelous. Thanx!
Audio book would be great, what with all the driving I do. Also, I loved The Notebook. *sob*
Love ALL of his books. Would love to have this one too!!
Nicholas Sparks is a very good author,so far The
Notebook is my favorite I have not read The Choice,
so please enter me to win
I read The Notebook and it was soo good. I’d like to read this as well.
I’d love to win the new book. A friend of mine knows Nick and said she could get it signed!!
I would love to win this book. Nicholas Sparks is one of my favorite authors!!
Hi Jennifer. This is a nice review!
I’d love to have you link up at the November Christian Book Fair.
Blessings, e-Mom
I LOVE Nicholas Sparks! Would love to win a hardcopy of The Choice.
If anyone needs a romance ‘fix’ similar to Nicholas’ books, I just read Coinage of Commitment and couldn’t put it down. Yummy!
Good luck to everyone