This was a wonderful retelling by Bruce Coville - who by the way signed the copy for my school library - of the famous play, A Midsummer Night's DreamThis was a wonderful retelling by Bruce Coville - who by the way signed the copy for my school library - of the famous play, A Midsummer Night's Dream, by the famous writer, Shakespeare. Truly, I agree that adaptations like these will truly help children and adults alike understand the stories enough to get interested, because reading the original is much more complicated. Coville does a brilliant job in explaining it in a simple manner, yet also including the most essential aspects of the play. This was always the play that intrigued me the most, mainly due to the fae elements. I do get how Shakespeare is acclaimed, however the plot does feel a bit too cliche... Well, in the 21st century way so to speak.
Overall, I really appreciated this retelling! The idea and portrayal of it couldn't have been better. I'm curious now, to see if Shakespeare truly deserved his title. Of course, I've never examined anything too deeply about him. I do hope I enjoy the original!
P.S. the funny story is, I took this book (ooh, and before I forget, has amazing, immersive illustrations) out of the library for around half the year... And I read it in a few minutes, and now I'll return them on the last week of school. One of the conclusions to my V-est of IP treatment (quoted by the librarian)... I'll miss the library much more than the school!...more
I never thought I'd see the day, They’d take my bonny bairn away. I long-ed for her every day. Alas, she is so far away.
The Tail of Emily Windsnap is a m
I never thought I'd see the day, They’d take my bonny bairn away. I long-ed for her every day. Alas, she is so far away.
The Tail of Emily Windsnap is a middle grade fantasy about mermaids and— Need I say more?
True, this book consisted of sloppy descriptions, confusing writing, an extremely predictable and simplistic plot, and a story a twelve year old can come up with. But that’s just it. Liz Kessler has the talents of a childlike imagination, and although it's overdosed and actually feels like a book written by a child, the mermaids and the fantastical world overpowers everything for me. Though, a more enchanting setting would’ve been great. This book just felt a bit like a combination of every mermaid world there ever was. And I would’ve loved, loved this book if it had deeper layers and lots of intrigue powered by character dynamics and true, emotional backgrounds. (In other words, in The School for Good and Evil way.) But truly, this book was amazing for me. It was pure relaxation and truly kept me at the edge of the seat for something I predicted would happen, and have seen in numerous books and movies. In essence, this book may not be a sophisticated and out-of-the-world mind-blowing book, but it was one I’m happy to have read.
I connected with Emily somewhat too, and of course I felt a sense of solace with the characters that were being told in such a unique way. And there is a problem, of course, and a lovely solution. The whole thing is just magical. And exactly what I dig.
From the rainbow rocks, the heartwarming parents, the entirety of the mermaid world, Emily’s house, to the mermaid best friend, this book feels strangely familiar and so whimsical. 5/5 for the imagination! 3.5 stars for the whole book. But honestly, this book is just an exception.
“Hey, guess what, Mandy? I’m not scared of you—and I don’t care what you call me. You can’t stop me from being who I am. And you don’t get to bully me anymore, because I’m leaving…”
Oh, Emily! Please take me with you. :)
Immediate Thoughts:
The magical book I needed! It's not that the book was spectacular, but because it's about mermaids...
A bit cliché, pretty predicable, confusing writing sometimes, and had a simplistic plot. But for once, it actually doesn't matter that much to me. It's just a ride, and the type of stories I dig.
Would be a solid five star book if it was, again, written by Soman Chainani. ;)
P.S. took me a long time to read because of school, but was the perfect relaxation even if I read it during particularly boring classes!...more
Finalmente, al Pez Arcoíris le quedaba una sola escama plateada. Había regalado sus posesiones más preciadas, pero estaba feliz, más feliz que nunca.
¡
Finalmente, al Pez Arcoíris le quedaba una sola escama plateada. Había regalado sus posesiones más preciadas, pero estaba feliz, más feliz que nunca.
¡Este libro ilustrado es tan precioso! Y tan adorable es, como un abrazo cálido con un toque de fantasía juguetona. Originalmente escrito en alemán y luego traducido al inglés (que lo leí mucho tiempo antes), me alegré mucho cuando recibí este libro ya que estoy aprendiendo español y es una de mis pasiones más fuertes. Y sin duda, estoy como pez en el agua (irónico!) leyendo este libro, mezclando mi amor por leer fantasía y la lengua de Español. Bueno, ahora voy a decir algo genuino—es necesario que este libro lo lean todos los niños y niñas! Tiene un sentimiento mágico y vibrante, y por supuesto va a despertar muchas ganas por todos a seguir leyendo. Por otro lado, los mensajes son tesoros. Se enseña a todos la importancia de compartir sus cosas únicas con todo el mundo, desde las personas cerca de ti. En fin, lo que vas a recibir es felicidad y un virus de eso extendiéndose a los corazones de todos. Sus acciones simpáticas importa mucho, y los “peces” te van a recordar un pez no solo arcoíris y bello, sino también amable y generosa. Te motiva, inspira, y enciende la alegría para todos. Todo es nada si no eres generoso en tu vida. Y en esencia, todos en el mar somos uno. Estamos conectados, por eso tenemos afinidad. Juntos, con un corazón grande y arcoíris, todo es posible.
¡Gracias a Norte Sur y NetGalley por la oportunidad de permitirme leer este libro a cambio de mi reseña honesta! Thank you to North South and NetGalley for the opportunity for me to read this book in exchange for my honest review!...more
Yellow Singing Sail is about Yinfan, or 黄吟帆 in Chinese, and her experience of growing up in the late 90s, China. This book explores the theme of lonelYellow Singing Sail is about Yinfan, or 黄吟帆 in Chinese, and her experience of growing up in the late 90s, China. This book explores the theme of loneliness of an only-child in a light-hearted way—capturing the sensation of childhood. But what’s interesting is that it Yinfan’s story truly happened, making this book wholesome and eye-opening.
As someone who is part of the Chinese community and engrossed by its history, I strongly relate to Yinfan’s experiences growing up in China. However, I was still surprised to learn the strictness of the teachers, different from the teachers I’ve typically had in American schools.
Yet I found Yinfan’s story taking me back to my early childhood, strong with nostalgia. I too moved between different cities. And also as an only child, I found myself lonely sometimes. The theme, however, did a spectacular job on teaching us that, in the end, you have yourself as a friend. Through the pages of this book, I found myself befriending a girl perhaps a bit similar to myself. Once I started to read this graphic novel, I couldn’t stop.
And of course, the illustrations bring the story to life. Yinfan is a talented artist with such a unique style—exactly the kind needed for this book! I can’t imagine any other styles with this story, as they bring an easygoing and elated touch.
I really recommend this book to fellow Chinese people—who may find themselves relating yet also amused at the comparison to their own life. Yet this book is also perfect for everyone hoping to learn more about growing up in China almost thirty years ago, or simply just the simplicity of youth. Truly, this is one of those books for everyone! It will inform you, teach you, and also fascinate you… Kind of what reading is all about!
Thank you to Netgalley and Kids Can Press for the opportunity for me to read this book in exchange for an honest review!...more
This book! The memories associated with the process of burrowing this book and the journey it went through with me greatly surpasses the helpfulness oThis book! The memories associated with the process of burrowing this book and the journey it went through with me greatly surpasses the helpfulness of it. But yes, definitely words every word lover should know.
Shoutout to the librarians and my library! From your VIP :)...more
Mr Santa by Jarvis just might be the best Christmas picture book, poem, or illustrations I’ve yet to read. Although simple, this boDecember 26th, 2024
Mr Santa by Jarvis just might be the best Christmas picture book, poem, or illustrations I’ve yet to read. Although simple, this book captures the wondering of a little boy (perhaps named John) about Santa. The poem was gorgeous, catchy, and accessible. But perhaps what made this book most unforgettable was the simple, cartoon and sketch styled pictures to accompany each question. I felt the warmness of Christmas and the playfulness of all the animals, gingerbreads, and Christmas lights. This was indeed a wonderful Christmas read. A cozy one for all to enjoy, perhaps on the night of Christmas Eve.
My eyes feel sleepy, Mr Santa. How do yours feel? Yawn. Just one more question… Was it really real?
¡Un libro fantastico que me he gustado muchísimo! Es muy divertido puedo leer este libro tan bonito y interesante en mi clase de español y también cua¡Un libro fantastico que me he gustado muchísimo! Es muy divertido puedo leer este libro tan bonito y interesante en mi clase de español y también cuando tengo tiempo... Y hace mucho tiempo que empezó este libro - pero es un satisfactorio de verdad. Los mensajes cumplir mucho con mis valores y este me ayuda a motivar y últimamente mejorar. Sin embargo lo más importante es que este libro que ahora aunque es bastante fácil, me acompaña con mi viaje española. Por supuesto hay más libro para venir, y no veo la hora devorarse ;)
Si eres en un nivel novicio alto o intermedio bajo, o aprendí español hasta puedes tener una conversación simple pero no muy sofisticado, leer este libro sobre la identidad, y la valentía para sé tu auténtico yo.
If you're at a novice high or intermediate low level, or have learned Spanish and can even have a simple but not really sophisticated conversation, read this book about identity and the courage to be your authentic self....more
A true, and pretty engrossing YA mystery. And also, pretty disturbing.
⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 5 Stars
To be honest, I didn’t have too high hopes for this book. But it A true, and pretty engrossing YA mystery. And also, pretty disturbing.
⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 5 Stars
To be honest, I didn’t have too high hopes for this book. But it isn’t too bad! Although I didn’t enjoy the YA aspects, the mystery was captivating and the plot twist truly took me by surprise. There was a slow start but it did get more interesting. I wished there was more character development, though, but I did get to know all of the Naturals well. Besides that, I also didn’t feel any connections with the main character, Cassie.
But it was an okay book. Not the best, but not the worst either.
P.S. The best part was discussing it with the most amazing buddy, Miss Who! :)...more
What if when night falls, dreams come true? And in the morning, no one knew?
Sunflowers Rise in a Midnight Sky is a beautiful and imaginative poetry an
What if when night falls, dreams come true? And in the morning, no one knew?
Sunflowers Rise in a Midnight Sky is a beautiful and imaginative poetry and picture books that will bring a whimsical world into the heads of readers of all ages.
The artwork and colors are absolutely stunning and unique! It definitely took me further into the magical world of dreams. The details will awe you as well, with all the texture and glitters.
Overall, I recommend this to readers and daydreamers young and old seeking a good book of poetry that will take them onto a quick but rewarding journey of magic and dreams. :)
Thank you to NetGalley and Empyrean Press for the ARC in exchange for an honest review....more
“Violet Blandin makes it a habit to blend in. At school, no one notices her, but in the kitchen, she cooks up confidence and can't be missed. When a h“Violet Blandin makes it a habit to blend in. At school, no one notices her, but in the kitchen, she cooks up confidence and can't be missed. When a hands-on lesson about measurement goes haywire, Violet finds she is the only one who can save celebrated Chef Delaclaire from an awful encounter with a very salty cookie.”
Get ready to be swept away by the magic of Quiet Violet Finds Her Voice! This is a simple yet powerful picture book not only for kids—but resonates with readers of all ages. It shows us how introverted kids have plenty to say. Especially when it comes to their passion. Gabrielle Nidus has crafted a delightful story, showcasing an important lesson, making parents and peers alike have a sense of understanding to those who are quieter than others.
The illustrations are also spirited and lively, promising to make readers visualize the story and making it a joy to dive into the pages.
But wait, there’s more! With a section for adults, including discussion questions and activities, Nidus successfully informs the caretakers and provides them with all the important, correct information to guide their children.
This book is a must-read for anyone who believes in the power of understanding, the collaborative potential with peers for introverted children, and the drive of pursuing one's passions!
Thank you to NetGalley and Free Spirit Publishing for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!...more
Kid Christmas is a cozy and whimsical picture book, in which presents the origin of Santa Claus.
Nicky is a boy with a heart of gold, and also works inKid Christmas is a cozy and whimsical picture book, in which presents the origin of Santa Claus.
Nicky is a boy with a heart of gold, and also works in a toy shop with his three uncles. But sooner than later, Nicky finds children who aren’t so lucky to be in the toy store. After befriending the kids with fireflies, he tells his uncles about his grand idea. An idea to make Christmas for everyone…
Of course, he finds challenges within his goal, but in the darkest moment, can he turn things around? Rather, can his friends?
This is a perfect Christmas eve bedtime story for four to eight year olds, making them feel cozy and more excited for Christmas than ever! If you’re interested, consider picking this up for the following reasons; the artwork, the imagination, and the theme.
I have to admit—I almost made the spellbinding artworks my wallpaper, and it’s probably the biggest strength of this book. Nevertheless, the story takes a unique spin on the origin of Santa, and could encourage readers to further their imagination. Ask your kids, or yourself; What if I can retell this? What would Santa’s origin look like to me?
The message or theme of this book is also important. In the simple twenty or so pages, Nicky decides to be kindhearted to a group of kids, and gets a surprising return from them when he’s in trouble. This book teaches all of us the power of kindness, and what you can receive in return.
However, there are a few things that didn’t quite work out for me! I have high standards, for one, and it may not apply to you. Though, the plot hasn’t shown the readers anything too valuable. And although the artwork is certainly amazing, the story is bland and seems ever so cliché. Sometimes, the dialogue doesn’t seem like children speaking, since one called the other “kid”.
I don’t give picture books high ratings, but for this, I would reward this a 3 stars! I had fun reading this book, and couldn’t help daydreaming what my origin would look like. If all this sounds interesting to you, it is worth a try!
Thank you to Netgalley and Frances Lincoln Children's Books for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review!...more
When I’m reading, I’m constantly looking for a few things. One important thing is that the story feels satisfying for me. And how else better to do thWhen I’m reading, I’m constantly looking for a few things. One important thing is that the story feels satisfying for me. And how else better to do that than provide a great ending?
The Lost Library, a cozy village mystery, a book about books, and just how magical a library can be. How valuable it is. It’s about a fire that no one talks about, about Mortimer, Al, and Evan. And perhaps what Evan, a fifth grader from Matinville, was looking for, has been right beside him the whole time…
⭐⭐⭐️. 5 or 7/10
The Lost Library is pretty average for a book, to be honest. Not bad, and not spectacular either. However, the book’s greatest problem, perhaps, is that it’s slow paced. In the publishing world today, novellas are especially hard to get into readers’ hands. However, Rebecca Stead and Wendy Mass have both published numerous bestselling books, and also collabed on a novella, Bob.
Although this book consists of two hundred plus pages, each page merely contains about two hundred forty words (hardcover edition), which is a small amount even for Middle Grade. Novellas like these tend to be fast paced, but the Lost Library is surely an exception. And, often it’s not a good thing! One way to turn this around, is to make the book character driven—the plot heavily influenced by the characters choices, while they struggle with their internal conflict. However, this book is neither fast-paced or character driven, causing the plot to seem bland in the first eighty percent, and hard to get into!
But, but! The tension building and mystery was great. And that ending! I would really gush about it if this isn’t a review. The ending makes the three stars surely greater, and made me stay up later than I’m supposed to to finish it.
Anyways, the tension building. There were clues splattered here and there, and although I kind of predicted the ending a bit more than halfway through, the way everything builds and suddenly clashes, halts, and comes out in beautiful ways… That was really awesome.
And the mystery! This book showed me that mysteries can be so much fun, and I’m definitely trying out more. Evan’s “adventure” is also full of fun little clues. And although it’s simple, this book created a mystery one of a kind. I’m not an expert, but I could really see how this mystery would take a lot of brainstorming.
I have high standards, and maybe I’m not the targeted age group? But however so, I think a middle grade reader, who is craving a cozy book, should no doubt try this! Also, try this if you love mysteries, a happy ending, multiple point of views, and a book that’s a bit heart-breaking and a bit not. But in the end, all is well. Everything is sealed. And your heart will be full.
I know, I know—that was pretty cringe! But truthfully speaking, that was some of the best endings I’ve ever seen. :)...more
I want to do something, right here, right now, to shame them, to make them accountable, to show the Capitol that whatever they do or force us to do is
I want to do something, right here, right now, to shame them, to make them accountable, to show the Capitol that whatever they do or force us to do is a part of every tribute they can’t own. That Rue was more than a piece in their Games. And so am I.
The Hunger Games was a long anticipated book series. I have forever heard recommendations upon reviews of the masterly-spun story that captivates one mind after the other. Upon reading this book, I was meticulously dissecting the book—and it was such a joy entirely to do so! However, with my extremely high standards of a proper novel, this one won’t be the book I seek to learn from when writing my own stories…
Now I truly realize that it’s almost unfair to be commenting on this book from the lens of a writer rather than a reader. But truly, as a reader this book was not undistinguished. I did find myself turning page after page, unable to put a stop to the story that’s unfolding… But therein comes a problem that is perhaps subtle and hidden by the dramatic ending, and the two scenes that were notable—a feeling of immense emptiness. Personally, it may also be the mundane romance that pushed me further away. (view spoiler)[There were increasingly blurry lines between Peeta and Katniss, which threw me off quite a bit! (hide spoiler)] The romance simply wasn’t done well—it relied much too considerably on the plot (which we will also dig into later).
Yet it is certain that the book kept me turning the pages robotically. There were layers upon layers of anticipation for what was to happen next. From the inciting incident, (view spoiler)[when Katniss had volunteered, to the end of the book when Katniss returned home (hide spoiler)]. Especially during the Games, there was so much tension and possibly—all on the sake of survival which seemed unlikely, yet hopeful. The dystopian setting was, well, dystopian. It explored all the classic elements of dehumanized citizens, intrusive surveillance, propaganda, distorted perceptions of happiness, and even the despondent yet hopeful protagonist. One of my favorite aspects was found in the crushing cruelty of Panem. Mostly, Katniss’ defiance and small act of rebellion. I feel this in my community, and I find many things unjust as someone who’s outcasted and befriended many who have also been ostracized without true reason. The conformity is real and thriving, yet putting a stop to this is difficult.
And of course, the part that was truly done well was Katniss’s personality. I don’t mean her backstory or her inner conflict, but how she is. She’s a headstrong character, but incredibly courageous, resilient and noble. In a society where females are continuously thrust upon stereotypes, Katniss exemplifies the challenging of traditional gender roles. And I do think we all see some of her in us, making her relatable and realistic to an extent (but again! Lacking in some aspects.) Indeed, I do wish that I know Katniss personally. And I feel that we can become great friends.
However I do understand the premise of this book being like a blueprint, but it’s not really an argument to it being written sort of poorly. Besides basic points such as grammatical errors and weird phrasing, this book felt more like a first draft than a completed and not to mention acclaimed novel. What truly made me realize this was how plot-driven this way, making this book feel so hollow and empty. Especially as I continued to make notes on the margins, noticing repeating cycles that prompt this whole book. It’s what I named the Cycle of Action Turning Pages.
The cycle seemed super forced. Whenever I got a bit bored, there was something new to happen. And it worked interchangeably, because the Games needed to be entertaining to the audience in the Capitol. And of course, also the readers. There were sudden rises, (view spoiler)[like Muttations making it harder for them to survive (rather than something about the characters…), sudden fire for Katniss, Peeta’s injury (hide spoiler)], and so, so much more to count. Really, everything followed this pattern. Except for the (view spoiler)[befriending of Rue (hide spoiler)], which was sincerely driven by Katniss’ reminder of her younger sister, Primrose. And (view spoiler)[Rue’s death (hide spoiler)], which not only acted as a turning point of the story and made Katniss realize the injustice, but also contributed to the dystopian theme and prompted us to read because we care about the characters, not about the plot. There was always, always a conflict, many times very small, but life-threatening or engaging. Then we want to find out what happens, but because it’s driving the characters not because it’s stemming from them. This ultimately made this book feel so hollow—and for sure it is, because essentially it’s lacking the heart of the story. Honestly, this cycle is more psychology than actual writing technique. This is aptly what caused the fall of the book for me.
I also have to point out (though less significant) that this book was written in an overly simplified way. There weren't any worthy subplots—and yes, the (view spoiler)[Peeta-Katniss (hide spoiler)] one wasn’t worth it and did not contribute to anything at all; it was only a splatter of paint adding to the trope, a tactic drawing readings in. I predicted so, so many things that were going to happen. And some, I would argue, were not as creative as what I had imagined. Truly, many times the author literally seems to run out of things to write about to draw readers in… That’s also what prompted the cycle we previously talked about.
Now we have to talk about the absolute lack of inner conflict thus emotional depth, also caused by the cycle. Because truly, I did not connect with the characters. Sure, Katniss was hungry, starved, and fed her family. But this was driven by plot, by the cruelty of Panem and District 12. Sure, she loved her sister dearly, but where was the emotional connection? I just couldn’t find it. And it did not affect the stakes of the book in any way. And sure, Katniss and Peeta would rather sacrifice themselves for the other, dying viciously together, but it felt more like an act. And, whatever genuine connection they had couldn’t just carry the book. At least not for me.
Lastly, where did all of this take us? What’s the deeper message, the theme? I thought and thought, researched and explored, but it did not make sense. You can say something is the theme, but the book doesn’t give it much significance. It doesn’t truly expand upon the dystopian society, or the difficulties of survival. The theme doesn’t drive the story, because plot is driving it forward. Not characters. And characters, as all of us writers know, give the deeper meaning to the book.
This book was compelling, but immensely plot driven. It was unpolished, and lacked emotional depth and a deeper meaning. And thus, it felt hollow. Just another story.
However, I have to recognize the morally-gray characters; and especially Katniss, she is truly memorable. The setting was truly vivid. The descriptions did it for me, the prose was perfectly arranged most times; putting myself in Katniss’ shoes was surprisingly easy.
But truly, I was captivated sometimes. And the world and characters that were created could immerse readers. It wasn't a true fail, but under a writer like, for instance, Soman Chainani, I do think this book would be awesome. However, Suzanne Collins provided this book with touches no others could muster. I mostly enjoyed dissecting this book, annotating like a writer is amazing. And who am I to critique this book? I’ve got so much more to learn about writing—I’ve just started, anyway. This book really provoked me to think deeply, and I will be eternally grateful for that. And, of course, I’ve got a lot more thinking to do… My journey with this book doesn’t just end here. In a way, this book was so much more impactful than other books I’ve enjoyed.
So, although I didn’t like this quote in the beginning, I do realize we’re all playing a Game. I’m in my writing Game right now, haha. So…
May the odds ever be in your favor.
Immediate Thoughts: 3 / 5 Stars Finished it in 3 days, wow! I'm still processing- Woah. But I won't really let the ending tip its balance. I came with high expectations, and I left with uncertainty. I'm willing to read Catching Fire, though. I do want to see if it gets into more things :) P.S. I loved annotating this one! Even if I'm kind of just analyzing the story arc, it makes it so much better....more
It's okay. Nothing too special, but very weird and the ending was actually a bit scary to me. It just seems surreal- XD
I actually was anticipating a sIt's okay. Nothing too special, but very weird and the ending was actually a bit scary to me. It just seems surreal- XD
I actually was anticipating a sweeping book. To be honest this book wasn't the best. Some parts were nice, it just felt too ordinary for me. I didn't really enjoy the ending D: