BOOK WE LOVE: The Girls' Guide to Rocking

The Girls' Guide to Rocking: How to Start a Band, Book Gigs, and Get Rolling to Rock Stardom by Jessica Hopper (Workman Publishing).

We know you want to be a rock star, so put down the hairbrush and pick up a guitar! In this chick-friendly guide to the world of rock'n'roll, Hopper narrows in on everything you'll need to know to make it in the music world. She offers advice on picking an instrument (or using what you already play), writing lyrics, soundproofing, booking your first gig, recording demos, and how to develop a stage presence. Other useful information includes descriptions of the different types of microphones, promotion advice, and how to build personal connections. Hopper even touches on how to prevent interband bickering and conflicts. The book is geared towards teenage girls, but women of all ages can profit from the author's expertise, and the further reading suggestions, listening lists, and inspiring quotes from successful musicians she includes. There's also an additional, full-color, glossy pull-out timeline of "A Superstar Century in the Sisterhood of Rock'n'Roll." Read this book and start rocking! Even the seasoned musician will find this to be an enjoyable read.

A Controversial Toy Hits the Shelves

People have quite conflicting views regarding breast-feeding. Personally, I think it is a wonderful, natural thing that makes for healthier babies (sorry, Facebook). It's what breasts are intended for! However, is a toy for little girls (or boys) crossing the line? Bebe Gloton is a Spanish doll that actually "nurses." The girl wears the daisy top, and when the baby gets near the daisy, it starts making sucking noises. When she takes it away from the daisy (nipple), it starts to cry until she burps it. Some individuals think that it will help make people a little more comfortable with the oddly controversial issue of breast-feeding. Others have argued that it will encourage girls to get pregnant earlier, although mommies have noted that girls already mimic their breast-feeding and don't need a toy when they have their imagination. Strange or acceptable? Would you buy the doll for a little one in your life? What do you think?

BABE BABBLE: Wise Words From Women

To start off this new section of HCZ's blog, we've decided to feature the words of Margaret Mead (1901-1978), a very well-known American anthropologist.

"A small group of thoughtful people could change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."
~Margaret Mead

BOOK WE LOVE: I Loved, I Lost, I Made Spaghetti

I Loved, I Lost, I Made Spaghetti by Giulia Melucci (Grand Central Publishing) is a memoir that blends mouth-watering recipes with tales of doomed love affairs. Giulia tells her experiences from over twenty years of dating in New York City with humor, sarcasm and disappointment. She writes, "For me, a new boyfriend is a tantalizing opportunity to show off the thing I'm most confident about: my cooking." The author shares her remembrances of dating an affectionate alcoholic and novelists with Peter Pan complexes, sprinkled with heavenly recipes inspired by her mother and the men in her life (or lack thereof, hence "No Nookie Gnocchi"). Turns out that the recipes are what made the greatest impression! Any reader who has spent a period of time in the complicated dating world will feel an affinity with Giulia's character. At times, she is overly needy, or just downright depressing, yet there is a true sense of hope and romanticism as she searches for the right man. I Loved, I Lost, I Made Spaghetti demonstrates that love and food are inextricably linked, and with both, a recipe comes in handy.

Hip Chick Zine is Back from "Vacation"

Alright, so it was a working vacation, but we're back to the real world after not having internet access for over a month and a half. I was working at a music school for the summer, and it was fantastic. Look for more updates starting this coming week, including lots more book reviews, the latest news in health and fashion, travel notes and way more from HCZ!

As always, please send in your work!
Joanna @ HCZ

BOOKS WE LOVE: Skinny Bitch Style!

Skinny Bitch in the Kitch by Rory Freedman and Kim Barnouin (Running Press) is a cheeky cookbook with "Kick-Ass Recipes for Hungry Girls Who Want to Stop Cooking Crap (and Start Looking Hot!)." The two skinny chicks who brought you Skinny Bitch are back with a vengeance with their latest New York Times Bestseller, Skinny Bitch in the Kitch. The skinny bitches share their cooking knowledge with readers, with sections like "Bitchin' Breakfasts," "PMS (Pissy Mood Snacks)," and "Happy Endings (Desserts)." With a spunky writing style, the ladies cook, vegan-style, and bring you tasty alternatives to classic dishes like "Pad Thai," "Falafel," and "Mac n'Cheese." They will have you substituting coconut oil for olive oil, and cutting how much dairy and meat you consume in no time. So go on and whip up some homemade "Granola Yogurt Parfait" made with soy yogurt and "Potato and Pumpkin Curry with Brown Basmati Rice" today. This isn't your typical cookbook, but it's lots of fun! It's also a compact, 192-page book, which means you can easily toss it in your purse for ideas while away from home. Make notes of your favorite recipes and health ideas with their journal, Skinny Bitchin', and you'll be well on your way to a healthier, happier you!

Their other books include Skinny Bitch Bun in the Oven and their book for the boys, Skinny Bastard. For more information, visit their website.

Techie Chick: chicBuds

Just when you thought you'd seen it all, "chicBuds" enters the scene. These decorative, retractable earphones will definitely spice up your listening experience. Say good-bye to tangled earphones! By pulling both sides of the device evenly, the cord comes out, and easily slips back in. Available in many different Swarovski crystal colors, as well as a new designer style. This ingenious, chic invention is very helpful while traveling! Our favorite Swarovski crystal earphones are $49. chicBuds.com