Throughout writing this blog, I have found these websites to be really helpful in engaging my inquisitiveness and aiding me in my research.
Biography.com is an excellent, reliable resource for finding biographical information about literary figures. You simply have to type the person’s name into their search bar to be taken to a specific biography page. This page is compromised of both a “quick facts” section and an in-depth, descriptive biography arranged by clickable headers. (It even works with pen names!) Biography.com also includes videos, current news articles, and an entire section dedicated to “Famous Lookalikes.” I highly recommend perusing this website for curiosity’s sake.
In its “about” section, Book Riot simply states that it is “…dedicated to the idea that writing about books and reading should be just as diverse as books and readers are.” Book Riot lives up to its claim; it is an amazing resource for both the serious and fun sides of the literary world. I particularly enjoy their Buy Borrow Pass series that offers book reviews on three books of the same theme; I have received some great book recommendations from here. I also recommend subscribing to their “Deal of the Day” to get the lowest e-book prices on new releases and classics; get as many books as you want without breaking the bank.
While Buzzfeed articles can be hit or mess, Buzzfeed Books has released some great ones about authors and their pets. For example, this Buzzfeed post is what inspired me to create The Literary Mews. Buzzfeed books has both surprisingly reviews and silly literary articles. It is a great resource to read reviews or take literary quizzes guaranteed to at least pique your interest.
Catster is both a magazine and virtual website dedicated to all of the people who have feline frenzy. In essence, Catster is the website that all hip modern cat ladies and gentlemen should have saved in their bookmarks. Catster is an excellent source for discovering fun information about how to best care for cats, cool cat-themed merchandise for your house, and, yes, even the occasional post about authors who loved cats. Simply type in “literary cats” and look through the articles they have to offer on the subject. You won’t “pur-regret” it!
Dogster is the canine companion website of Catster and is just as valuable a resource. Dogster is also a print publication and online website dedicated to those who love their dogs; it includes articles about dogs in the news as well as tips and hints on dog training and care. Similar to Catster, Dogster has a soft spot for authors who can’t get enough of their pups. Dogster is pawesome.
Good Reads is an excellent source for anyone who loves reading. At its core, Good Reads is a website that allows you to keep track of all of the books you’ve already read, plan to read, and didn’t know you wanted to read until they were recommended by the website. Good Reads also includes features that allow you to search for your favorite quotes and add them to profile as well as community forums to meet others who are interested in the same genres, books, and authors. ( Psst… add The Literary Mews on Good Reads if you decide to join! )