From a legal battle for clean water to how we can tackle the plastic crisis, these five books not only offer different ways to address environmental pollution, but also offer a unique perspective on the inspiring world of medicine and its evolution.

Desperate: An Epic Battle for Clean Water and Justice in Appalachia by Kris Maher

Set in a West Virginia community in the Appalachian Mountains, this legal drama follows a tenacious environmental lawyer, Kevin Thompson, on a campaign to secure for clean water for the people of Mingo County. For two decades, the families of this coal mining community had found that when turning on their taps, they were met with discolored sludge. Following this, many in the community seemed to become seriously ill. Thompson, along with other lawyers and a band of young activists, fought a seven-year battle against West Virginia’s mighty coal company, Massey Energy, and exposed the merciless shortcuts that had led to the deadly contamination of the drinking water. Desperate takes a compelling look at corporate greed and corruption, as well as at the fight for the rights of the little guy. It documents the years-long case with a cinematic style, and Kris Maher’s effective reporting evokes strong feeling in the reader, providing a reason to believe that justice does still prevail, even against the odds.

Earth Detox: How and Why we Must Clean Up Our Planet by Julian Cribb

Earth Detox is a book that pulls no punches regarding the chemicalization of our planet and how the slow poisoning affects everything living thing on it. Science policy expert Julian Cribb handles this difficult yet important topic with zest and indicates that the barrage of chemicals and pollutants we throw into the atmosphere and oceans is six times larger than our greenhouse gas emissions. Many of these chemicals have not even been tested for safety, and they have been found in the most unthinkable places, from traces of arsenic found on the slopes of Mount Everest to flame-retardant chemicals identified in deep sea squid. These billions of tons of toxic chemicals are everywhere and in everything, including smart phones, medications, food, and clothes. Essentially though, this is more of a book about hope than despair. Cribb lays down ten existential threats that he states must be addressed and maps a way forward so that future generations can live as normally as possible and in harmony with the planet. The essence is sharing solutions in order to move toward a safe and healthy world for all living things.

Thicker Than Water: The Quest for Solutions to the Plastic Crisis by Erica Cirino

Erica Cirino’s Thicker Than Water is an open-hearted and frank examination of the throwaway culture that embodies the richest nations of this world, which then inevitably ends up on the doorstep of the world’s poorest nations. The impact is much bigger than most people think. Almost every person living today uses plastic on a daily basis, which has usually been designed for up to only a few minutes use at a time. This plastic inevitably ends up in our oceans, as the recycling process is far more complicated than we thought and so much plastic gets rejected. Cirino is a talented journalist and this account of her globe-hopping journey to meet scientists and activists who are trying to tackle the plastic issue illuminates the health impacts on wildlife and human life. The plastic crisis is an urgent issue and this book helps the reader to understand how we created the problem, but it also offers ways forward to help end the crisis. Technical innovations such as trash wheels, booms and grates, and simply picking up rubbish do help, but ultimately the solution lies in education, science, and systemic change. However, the problems of backlash from large industries, including fossil fuel companies who counter the lack of demand by creating plastic from ancient carbon stocks, complications of recycling, and our own unwillingness to let go of a life of convenience, threaten any good work already done. This book will help people to rethink their living habits and educate humankind about a better and healthier future for our planet.

Fauci: Expect the Unexpected: Ten Lessons on Truth, Service, and the Way Forward by National Geographic

Infectious disease specialist Anthony Fauci, the White House’s famous doctor, offers us an inspiring look at the influences in his life and the lessons that he has learned, giving us a rare glimpse into the world of a renowned medical expert. Fauci already had three decades worth of experience before becoming the most acclaimed doctor in America after dedicating himself to the White House Coronavirus Task Force, and in Fauci: Expect the Unexpected, he offers inspirational excerpts on governance, finding happiness in times of strife, and preparing to face unanticipated events. Fauci has spent his career fighting incredibly dangerous diseases such as AIDS, Ebola, and now COVID-19, and he has dedicated his life to dealing with heavy professional responsibilities. In this book, his insightful anecdotes offer ways to deal with obstacles and setbacks, especially in difficult times. The inspiring quotes taken from interviews in the eponymous National Geographic documentary will help people to move forward with respect to achieving a kinder future.

Patient Zero: A Curious History of the World's Worst Diseases by Lydia Kang and Nate Pedersen

From the authors of Quackery, Patient Zero chronicles various outbreaks of diseases, along with when they appeared and how they circulated. From reading this book, you will come to know the science behind the discovery of the diseases and how medicine has evolved to help us to deal with them. Kang and Pedersen offer medical accounts of different diseases and viruses, such as bubonic plague, HIV, polio, and smallpox, and tell us the human stories left in the wake of each, along with the investigation into the successes and failures, scientific theories, and examinations. We learn about the historical tragedies of patient zeros and how they led to medical breakthroughs. The authors also introduce us to how politics and religion manipulated information regarding the diseases. This is a morbidly entertaining and very accessible book with a good number of illustrations, so even the most reluctant reader should enjoy it. The only downside to reading it is the realization of how many nasty diseases are still out there and how easy it could be to experience another pandemic in our lifetime.


The Giggles Are Coming!

We got this book because the title was so cool! And the book is cool too. The Giggles Are Coming! by Christopher Eliopoulos is about two kids at a new school, and they say how much fun it will be. They make a new friend called Ruby. When their teacher says something funny, the kids try to ignore it, try to hide, but in the end, they can’t resist… the giggles are coming!

It was pretty funny at the end and the pictures of the kids are really funny. No one can stop once the giggles arrive! Ruby wears purple and a panda hat. The giggles can be kind of frightening, but I would like to visit the classroom. Noodles has a great name! The guffaws and the chuckles were rude though. This book was just right and I wouldn’t want it to be anything else. It was original and unique and we loved the pictures. It’s a really fun book that we read again and again. It makes us giggle, guffaw, and chuckle every time.


The Last Checkmate: A Novel

The Last Checkmate is work of historical fiction that twists events to put a young non-Jewish girl in the men’s camp at Auschwitz. She is then only saved by her ability to amuse a particularly psychopathic guard by playing chess. While the author, Gabriella Saab, explains the liberties she took in writing her novel and has done research to back up what may or may not be plausible, I found it hard to swallow, especially when the main character’s childhood friend and fellow Polish resistance fighter infiltrates the camp to save her, or when the sadistic guard is willing to meet the protagonist at Auschwitz to play a final game of chess.

I appreciate Saab’s creativity, but the chess references seemed incredibly forced and mainly consist of the main character saying “checkmate.” There are so many more authentic novels about chess or the Holocaust. I can take a fair bit of fiction in my historical fiction, but this felt like a bit of a ghoulish and exploitative take on such an important time in history. Readers should also be aware that in addition to numerous expletives, many scenes involve the sexual exploitation of the prisoners, which may not be appropriate for all teens.


Little Moar and the Moon

A young boy, “little Moar,” loves playing with his friends outside, but as the days grow shorter, his anxiety increases. He fears the moon and the creepy smile he sees on its face as it peers down at him. When the sun starts to fall below the horizon, he tells his friends he must go. On his way, he stops to play a quick game of tag and to visit his uncle. Darkness sets in, but he wants to wait for the clouds to conceal the moon. When little Moar finally reaches his destination, his mom comforts him and tries to sway his false beliefs. <be><be>This is a story with rich cultural roots. It takes place in the frigid Canadian Arctic. The clothing is reflective of the region, and the text includes a bit of the native language spoken there. The illustrations are unique and cartoon-like. They gloss the pages in an array of light and dark hues.

Children ages five to nine will relate to how afraid little Moar feels. Nearly all youth have faced fears of their own, however big or small they might be, and like him, they’re often stubborn in letting go of the myths that propel them.


The Tinysaurs Save Christmas

The elves and crew at the North Pole are sick and the Tinysaurs see that they are needed to help with Christmas or many boys and girls won't have anything under the tree. The Tinysaurs pitch in by making toys, loading the sleigh, delivering toys, and any other tasks needed to help make Christmas a success. The question is, will they be able to do everything and have Christmas be on time?

This is a really cute book. Each of the Tinysaurs is different and they have different characteristics, and this shows how important all their differences are when making toys at the North Pole. My favorite part is the Tiny T-Rex who made extra-long drumsticks to beat the drums with his tiny arms! This book is a great book to feel the holiday cheer!


Werewolf? There Wolf!

Just when you think you know the story of the big bad wolf and little red, this cool book comes along and surprises you. We all know that the wolf is big and bad and little red is innocent right? Think again! Little red warns the big bad wolf that there is an even bigger, even badder wolf out there in the forest and he is going to get him. Of course, the big bad wolf thinks who could it be, Goth wolf? Fairy wolf. Take a walk through the forest to find different kinds of wolves to see who could possibly be after the big bad wolf. There is another wolf, that is bigger and badder but only on the full moon. What will happen to little red? Read this book to find out!

I really like this book, it is like a twisted fairy tale! I love books like this with a twist on a classic. The illustrations are incredible! Very muted colors and different kinds of features on each of the themed wolves will make this book a hit for everyone. I really enjoyed the Goth wolf the most! A really fun book to read!!


Basho's Haiku Journeys

Basho was a poet from Japan who lived in the seventeenth century. In this book, Basho’s Haiku Journey by Freeman Ng, with illustrations by Cassandra Rockwood Ghanem, readers are introduced to Basho and his life.

He made five great journeys and wrote about them. Basho was a great poet because he wrote a lot. On his first journey, Basho saw many things. He was a cool man and he made friends on his journeys, like the samurai and the monk. He wanted to see everything he could. He had a few mishaps, mostly with his horse! On his other journeys, he found a little deer fawn and that was my favorite part.

The pictures are so beautiful. He went through mountains and deserts, fire and water. He wrote a lot of haiku. In the back of this book, there’s a description of how to write haiku and we tried it. They are very fun to write! If you want to learn about a very interesting man and about haiku, this is a great book to pick up.


Sephardi: Cooking the History. Recipes of the Jews of Spain and the Diaspora, from the 13th Century to Today

Here’s one for the imagination: candied eggplant with sugar and cinnamon sticks! Helene Jawhara Piner’s book heralds a joyful return to adventurous recipes, an escape from online and microwave meals.

Sephardi: Cooking the History embraces the story of Sephardi Jews who escaped the Inquisition at the end of the 15th century. Many feigned conversion from their faith while secretly retaining customs including their traditional food for everyday and celebrations.

Jewish families and Converso descendants alike enjoy the same dishes now, living as far away as the US, South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

The gorgeously illustrated book, accompanied by uncomplicated instructions, offers dishes with spices and herbs, some similar to those in Middle Eastern cooking. Several of the author’s personal recipes are drawn from historical sources adapted from her academic research.

Rather than relying solely on the ingredients already ‘on your pantry shelf,’ she includes exotic items like zatar, semolina, and cassava blending them into intriguing dishes.  Enjoyed through generations, are they tempting, and never extravagant. Chard stew with chickpeas, a 13th-century recipe for challah, the Sabbath bread, Maimonides chicken soup, and fried ‘diamonds’ with dates and walnuts hint at the variety, the fragrance seeping from the pages!


The Gaza Kitchen: A Palestinian Culinary Journey

Not many cookbooks focus as much as this one does on the lives of those who cook and consume the recipes shared. Some of the personal stories are heart-warming, some are heart-wrenching, but all demonstrate the daily challenges of living in Gaza, one of the most politically unstable regions in the world today. Some of the challenges include water shortage, food rationing, power outages, and political constraints (restricted movement and regulations governing fishing and land use). The narrative also highlights the ways in which the population has adapted, such as increased agriculture, success of fish farms, repurposing what is available to aid cooking, and adapting recipes to include what is readily available.

The recipes are divided by their ingredients or function into eleven sections, with each section averaging about ten recipes. Interspersed with the recipes are the personal stories of the men and women living there. The book does state that the recipes are those cooked in homes, not those served by catering companies. Some of the ingredients may not be readily available to American readers. Also, the recipes do not document the servings per recipe. The point of the book may not be to help us cook foods from Gaza, but instead to document––through food––the everyday lives of those who live in Gaza.


In the Struggle: Scholars and the Fight against Industrial Agribusiness in California

Agriculture is big business in California, and from the late 1800s until now, activists, lawyers, and scholars have been going after the abuses big agriculture has leveled on the people, environment, and food supply in the state. This book chronicles the lives and works of eight of those activists, and while it focuses on a couple, there are still a ton of stories to investigate and move beyond, for example, the role Cesar Chavez played in the United Farmworkers’ Movement.

This book chronicles how people standing up to big business, especially when it comes to food, has been an ongoing concern in California for generations. In the beginning, it was mainly farmers going after the railroad monopolies, but as soon as the farms become more consolidated and corporate, the task shifted from middle men to those working the ground itself.

People interested in how big business was fought, and how the lives of workers in the fields changed, will find this book interesting and intriguing. Overall, there is still much to be done and one of the lessons learned is that activists’ work is never finished, it just gets passed to the next generation.


The Wordy Book

The Wordy Book is a book with a bunch of words. This book does not have a story about people or animals like other books. This book has lots of pictures on each page that are colorful, with lots of words. This book is different because the words or letters are part of the picture when I don't see that very much. The first time I read this story, I didn't understand it at all. The second time, my mom pointed out more things about the pictures and explained what the questions about each page meant.

 Some of the pictures are cool; one is a boy using a pencil to row, and in another, a man has two pencils for his legs! In one picture, words are in the water, clouds, sun, and birds, and in another, they are in the flowers and leaves - so many words. I don't think that The Wordy Book will be one that I'll request to read again, but I did enjoy looking at the pictures, and some of the questions about them got my mind thinking - I think that kids older than me will understand and like this book better.


In the Same Boat

In the Same Boat by Holly Green follows young Sadie Scofield as she competes in a grueling canoe race, a family tradition. When one blunder leads to disaster, Sadie must re-enter the competition the following year and she is more determined than ever to succeed. But when her brother ditches her at the last minute, she has no choice but to compete alongside her worst enemy.

From the moment the story begins, Green immerses readers in the world of canoeing. She describes every moment, from painful accidents to unforeseen betrayals to joyous victories, scrupulously. Not only does her writing support the plot, Green also creates a headstrong female lead who has both the grit needed to succeed in the competition and the motivation to do so. Sadie doesn’t back down from anything, not even when everything goes awry. Instead, the events that transpire only make her more motivated, and readers can admire her determination. Green also establishes supporting characters with flaws, all of whom play a role in Sadie’s growth.

In addition, Green’s novel, though written about friendly competition, discusses heavier topics such as emotional abuse. The more serious content, however, is uplifted by lighter, more humorous moments. Despite the pace of the novel transitioning from fast to slow often, the book remains entertaining as readers prepare to be launched into the next canoe or family disaster. In conclusion, Holly Green’s In the Same Boat features very real themes and characters worth reading about.


Linked

Lincoln Rowley, a seventh grader, is popular, athletic, and full of mischief. Sometimes his mischief crosses the line, like pouring manure through the door slot of the office of the university people who discovered dinosaur poop near their town and now are digging for bones. It was a stinky thing to do, and getting caught was worse. The quiet town of Chokecherry, Colorado, is shaken when a swastika appears on the wall of the middle school. There is only one Jewish student: the daughter of one of the university professors. The school immediately institutes special holocaust instruction, but more swastikas appear. The students decide to make a paper chain with six million links to represent those lost in the holocaust. Link discovers some interesting family history, and some real twists and turns make this book riveting.

Gordon Korman speaks middle-grade in a way few authors do. This book is written from the points of view of several characters in the book, and all their voices are spot on. The story is complex, funny, serious, moving, and completely believable. It will capture young readers (and others lucky enough to find this book) and keep them engaged throughout. This is a winner.


A Discovery of Dragons

When Simon (Syms) Covington is offered a chance to sail aboard the Beagle as Charles Darwin’s assistant, he jumps at the chance.  After all, it’s the adventure of a lifetime! A sudden storm at sea alters his fate by stranding him on an island in the Galapagos that is already occupied by a formidable foe - a dragon!

It is not all bad news, though.  Syms also meets an island lizard that he names Farthing, for her beautiful, shiny copper eyes. Syms and Farthing work together to save each other repeatedly from the dangers of life on the island.

When Syms is finally rescued by his crew, he is half-dead, but he has managed to rescue eight dragon eggs.  Although Syms should be thrilled, he worries about the life the dragon hatchlings will have back in London, so far away from their home.

Will Syms find a way to save the baby dragons before it is too late? Will Farthing find her happily ever after?  This is a sweet story about love and loss, and having respect for our fellow creatures. It is a great read for elementary-aged kids and lovers of science of all ages!


Saguaro's Gifts

It’s Saguaro’s one-hundredth birthday, and all those who’ve benefited from its presence in the dry hills where survival is an eternal challenge come to celebrate and pay gratitude to this resilient friend of theirs. The owl swoops down to find his resting place among its sharp spines, and bees, butterflies, and doves fly in to savor Saguaro’s sweetness. An old tortoise searches for fallen fruit, and a finch creates a nest in Saguaro’s thick stem. A bobcat climbs high on Saguaro, and a lizard comes with well wishes. In the midst of all the activity, Saguaro’s seeds are scattered, so that someday new life will begin.

This is a poignant story about reciprocity, thankfulness, and longevity. It’s about giving back to those who’ve been tried and true over a lifetime. It’s also a testimony to nature and the amazing gifts it offers so freely.

Scripted font and a glossy cover add a rich elegance; the text is aesthetically beautiful. The illustrations are displayed in gorgeous hues and are crafted with precision. The illustrator’s experience in tropical rain forests proves valuable to his contribution. Combined with the author’s elegant prose and heartfelt message, this is a masterpiece that’ll be favored by children and adults alike.


The Apocalypse and the End of History: Modern Jihad and the Crisis of Liberalism

The concept of jihad in Islam is something that has been rigorously studied since the 9/11 attacks, some 20 years ago, but alas, had received little attention outside of specific academic circles before that. Suzanne Schneider explores the role of jihad in Islam and especially in the Arab world, as well as how it has been interpreted and used since the turn of the 20th century and through the wars of liberation from European colonial rule.

Many Americans and Europeans struggle with the concept of jihad, and like many religious ideas, its meaning has changed over time as societies have changed as well. In its most basic form, jihad is often meant to be an internal struggle to be the best Muslim and follow the precepts of Islam as best as possible. Rarely did it ever mean that holy war must be made against others. Although Islamic armies did fight against their neighbors, it was more about a war of conquest than religion. Schneider looks at how different terrorist groups have taken the concept of jihad and used it for their own purposes.


Black Panther Spellbound (Black Panther the Young Prince)

Black Panther Spellbound is a captivating book. T'challa's father has finally given him a chance to visit his friends from America. T'challa, Sheila, and Zeke have it all planned out. T’challa’s visit starts off normal but as he starts getting used to the area, he notices things that just don’t seem right. A strange man happens to be everywhere they are. T'challa is having weird dream visions. Buy the book to find out what happens to T’challa and his friends.

Black Panther Spellbound would be a great read for everyone, especially Marvel fans and action lovers. This book would be awesome for children aged eleven and up. When I was reading it, there were so many cliffhangers that it made it impossible for me to stop reading.


Curses

Beauty and the Beast is my favorite fairytale of all time. It always has been and always will be too! There’s something amazing about the tables being turned around. In this story, instead of the beast being male, the beast is female. Merit is set to be married to a man she refuses to spend eternity with. She then becomes cursed and turns into a beast. The only way it could be broken is love. Of course, there are stipulations; otherwise it’d be too easy.

It’s nearing the end and if she doesn’t find a husband, she’ll forever be lost as the beast. Enter the handsome and charming Tevin, a boy who comes from a family of conmen. When Merit and Tevin meet, the two strike a deal that would benefit them both. But things never do go the way we want them to, do they?

I adored Curses and all the wonderful and quirky characters we got to meet. This was a fun, romantic, and thrilling read that kept me flipping the pages. I didn’t stop until I was done. The world was wonderful and rich. I wish I could forget the story and read it again for the first time!


Space Station Down

The International Space Station (ISS) is a multinational, multiagency, collaborative, modular space station in Earth's low orbit. As the commander of the ISS, Kimberly Hadid-Robinson is responsible for the lives of the station’s crew as well as the overall functions of the station itself. But now, terrorists have boarded the space station, murdered its crew, and threatened to deorbit, the ISS crashing it into New York. Kimberly not only has to stop the terrorists from turning the ISS into a one-million-pound nuclear bomb and prevent herself from being murdered, but the fate of America’s space program rested in her hands as well.

Ben Bova and Doug Beason have teamed up to bring us Space Station Down, a fast-paced sci-fi drama. Bova and Beason don’t waste any time with needless background stories. The action plays out immediately and the authors add in pertinent info as needed. The story feels a bit old, almost like a blending of the film Die Hard and the events of 9/11. The authors make up for the cliches with a lot of technical details about the ISS, and plenty of zero-g heroics. This is a good read for those who like their action combined with scientific facts.


Bullet Train: A Novel

Maria tells Ladybug to find a suitcase and take it. Ladybug is clumsy and unlucky but still has skills as an assassin. Kimura is an alcoholic who finds the fourteen-year-old schoolboy named the Prince and is ready to kill him because supposedly the Prince pushed Kimura's son off of a roof. The Prince is a sly, manipulative, evil boy who uses his youth to trick people. Lemon and Tangerine had one job. Find Minegishi's kidnapped son and bring back the ransom money after they killed everyone involved. These two are bumbling idiots who, like Ladybug, have some of the skills needed to be assassins but they are extremely sloppy. The catch? All of this is happening on the high-speed bullet train in Japan called the Shinkansen.

Soon to be a major motion picture starring Brad Pitt,Bullet Train reads a lot like a Quentin Tarantino film with its shady and colorful characters who are unforgettable and its cheesy, bloody 80s horror flick violence. The story moves back and forth into the characters' pasts and their present situation on the train. The story is messy, violent, and humorous all at once. Not just a simple bad guy versus good guy story, this book is a must-read for fans of Pulp Fiction and Reservoir Dogs.


The Ghouls' Guide to Good Grammar

This book is really fun for homeschoolers! I like this book not just because it has a funny storyline for Halloween, but also because it can make learning about grammar fun! Who knew ghouls had to know all about grammar? This cute book teaches many different things, such as punctuation like apostrophes, quotations, homophones like “there,” “their,” and “they're,” and how adding or not having commas in a sentence can change the entire meaning of the words in that sentence.

A Ghouls’ Guide to Good Grammar has really fun and colorful illustrations. This is perfect for this season of the year to prepare for Halloween. You can follow Vanessa Vampire and her ghost and ghoul friends through their neighborhood to see where they end up as they dissect everyone's grammar! This book is really fun and I highly recommend it to anyone who needs a little extra help in the language arts area, or just as a fun book to read in general!


If the World Were 100 People: A Visual Guide to Our Global Village starts out really interesting, using a simple number to explain the world’s demographics in terms of eye and hair color. There is also a really good map for reference.

Unfortunately, it does not seem to be written for children, at least not very respectfully. The book tries to place the burden of big problems––like starvation, safety, and access to education––on children. What’s worse is that the book doesn’t really offer any solutions, just kind of outlines a bunch of problems that even adults don’t seem to be able to fix, like as if it’s the reader’s fault. It’s not uplifting or inspiring in any way.

As my parents feel there’s a pretty blatant social agenda, this is a read once and then straight into the recycle bin book. If the author were to write another, I’d hope the whole thing could be math-oriented like it starts out or at least point out the goodness of different cultures and ways of life because learning to appreciate each other means there’s hope for the future.


Unraveling Bias: How Prejudice Has Shaped Children for Generations and Why It's Time to Break the Cycle

As a White Southerner who grew up with the specter of Confederate flags, Dr. Christia Spears Brown has direct experience of overt racial, gender, and class biases. With her research background in developmental psychology, the author explains the science behind bias and how children develop stereotypes about gender and ethnic groups. She underscores the adverse impact of biases on children in both marginalized and privileged communities. This book serves as a call-to-action for parents and teachers to take a stand and interrupt harmful generational patterns of thought and behavior.

Unraveling Bias is a timely read as Americans grapple with resurgent book bans, school board members spouting racist ideologies, and sustained attacks on transgender children. The book focuses on reducing biases that affect children from racialized groups and immigrant backgrounds, and it offers ways to protect LGBTQ+ rights in schools and communities.

As a White educator and social scientist, Spears Brown models how to become an upstander and advocate against bias for others with privileged racial identities. She offers pragmatic advice for teachers on how to stand up for diversity and inclusiveness in the classroom. Beyond inspiring individual action, she also emphasizes the importance of changing cultures, systems, and policies that perpetuate biases and maintain inequities.


Baby, I'm the Boss of Me: My Journey to Ageless

Ruth Yunker writes of her journey of aging in her memoir, Baby, I’m the Boss of Me. Having had a fear of growing old since the age of nineteen, Yunker dictates how she now accepts her old age and the process it took to get there. Inserting her wisdom and advice throughout the novel, I found myself laughing aloud at some of Yunker’s tales. A particular humorous chapter I found was titled, “My Traffic Cops.” Describing her road rage, Ruth fully believes in cutting people off, abruptly blowing her horn, and sneering at those who drive Hummers. My jaw dropped when I read of her many, MANY ticket charges, and encounters with traffic cops. However, upon aging, Yunker’s need for speed has calmed down as she realizes no cop will be enthralled with a middle-aged woman speeding on the freeway. Another chapter I found especially humorous was titled, “Cooking for the Ones You Love.” In this chapter, Ruth teaches you how to effectively manipulate your husband into cooking for good, without him even realizing it. A mother, wife, and pet owner, Ruth, relatable as always, recalls that she has spent countless hours and immeasurable effort into feeding not only herself but her loved ones healthy, creative meals. In her older age, she decided she is done cooking and deserves to be cooked for, hence, teaching her husband to cook for himself without him realizing her motives. Her entire novel is similar in formatting. Yunker takes comical stories of her past and explains how growing older has not only matured her but changed her ways. An incredibly spunky character, Yunker’s banter kept me on my toes with her witty remarks and side comments.

My favorite part of this book was the passages about Yunker’s childhood. With her father’s job causing them to travel often, Ruth grew up in a variety of places including Massachusetts, California, and Belgium. Yunker described herself as being the permanent new kid, as she constantly was adapting to new homes, schools, cultures, and customs. No doubt, this moving in her childhood influenced her now fearless attitude and peppy spirit. As she puts it, she now has no fear of living in new places among strangers. She can harbor friendships wherever she goes.

Overall, I found this book a refreshing, lighter read, and I enjoyed the stories Yunker paints for her audience. I would recommend this book to anyone trying to tackle the fear of aging, especially mothers, as Ruth focuses much on motherhood and her struggle with young children.


Ill Intent: A Medical Thriller

"Another captivating read by author Geoffrey M. Cooper. There is trouble in academia and Scientist Brad Parker and his life partner F.B.I. Agent Karen Richmond are back to solve another murder mystery. A fast-moving whodunnit investigation with plenty of action, deceit, and suspense." --Kristi Elizabeth, Seattle Book Review


Ill Intent: A Medical Thriller

"Geoffrey M. Cooper spins a riveting tale around the possible murder of a scientist who hid a dark secret for forty years. Ill Intent is as suspenseful as it is satisfying. It will hook you from start to finish with every juicy twist. This medical thriller is likely to convert you to a fan of this genre—and existing fans would be reminded of why they fell in love with this genre." -Foluso Falaye, San Francisco Book Review


Unleash the Girls: The Untold Story of the Invention of the Sports Bra and How It Changed the World (And Me)

Lisa Z. Lindahl has delivered an engrossing, influential historical account in Unleash The Girls: The Untold Story of the Invention of the Sports Bra and How It Changed the World (and Me). Her riveting work recalls the creation, evolution, and sensation that has come to be known as the modern-day athletic bra. Personal recollections and insights into her process will not only shed light on the monumental impact this piece of clothing has had on the world, but also inspire future generations of inventors to push beyond challenges, tap into their networks, and ultimately trust their instincts when it comes to bringing a new product to the market. Readers familiar with the Joy Mangano story will appreciate the similarities and differences between the two narratives. Each revolutionary product coming to the market in its own way, and yet noteworthy nonetheless. Lindahl’s story captures so many compelling themes, the most central perhaps, the sense that our actions can fill a need, for ourselves, others, and those to come. Lindahl explains, “The original Jogbra company’s slogan was ‘by women, for women’...The story of the invention of the first sports bra is very much a story of women.” But readers will need to pick up a copy to see where the story begins and how things ultimately come together. All who pick up a copy of Lindahl’s work will walk away with an air of ingenuity and determination. Readers at every stage of life will appreciate the tone and direction this work showcases. Those early in business will value the pitfalls that Lindahl openly and honestly shares. At the same time, more seasoned readers will recognize the life lessons shared between major moments, the life that occurs between the day-to-day. Although a lengthier read, young adult readers should consider exploring Lindahl’s work. Early readers, in particular, will learn volumes from the author’s insights into business and life. Unleash The Girls: The Untold Story of the Invention of the Sports Bra and How It Changed the World (and Me) is an extraordinary narrative that should be added to every bookshelf. Lindahl’s work will in time quickly become one of the preferred gifts for loved ones beginning a new adventure. Whether starting a new business venture, setting out on your own, or departing for college, Lindahl’s five-star account will provide inspiration, comfort, laughter, and community along the journey. Her words remind us of all that can be accomplished with tenacity and that ultimately, we are in great company.


Lisa Lindahl, the creator of the sports bra, recounts her journey to fame and fortune in this memoir, Unleash the Girls. The perfect story of a women’s journey to success, I would highly recommend this book to all readers, especially young girls. This memoir goes above and beyond just recalling the story of the “Jogbra,” as it also comments on the political atmosphere during the 1960s and 1970s, the expectations for women during that time period, and the women’s liberation movement. I found these supplemental passages a good refresher on this section of American history. From these paragraphs, I was able to further sympathize and understand Lindahl’s dire need, mission, and purpose.

In an attempt to keep off a few extra pounds, Lisa Lindahl took up running as a hobby. Quickly falling in love with the sport, Lindahl writes of her “runner’s high” and adoration of her newfound hobby. However, after a phone call with a fellow runner, Lisa realized that both of them suffered from their breasts bouncing uncomfortably upon running. Averaging thirty miles a week on her runs, she knew women such as herself would truly benefit from a bra that better supported their needs. From this realization, Lisa consulted with her costume designer best friend Polly and moved on to create the first sports bra.

A daily 6:00 am runner and Pilates goer myself, I must say that I have always taken for granted the invention of the sports bra. After reading this memoir, I now understand the complications and painstaking work that went into making this dream of Lindahl’s a reality. As she points out, the sports bra was groundbreaking for its time and completed what Title IX started in terms of leveling the playing field for female athletes. Lindahl is relatable and empathetic, and her remarkable success through unprecedented times, heartbreak, and medical turmoil are all beyond noteworthy.

Due to suffering from epilepsy, Lindahl frequently experienced seizures at inconvenient moments. Due to this, she felt those in her life refused to take her ambitions seriously, seeing her just as a girl with a serious medical condition. Boy, did Lindahl prove them wrong when she started the Jogbra empire! The part of the story that touched me the most was Lisa’s relationship with her partner, Hinda. As the reader will learn, Hinda was the antagonist in Lisa’s story, being anything but supportive and kind. Lisa’s patience and tolerance for Hinda’s blatant disrespect were beyond words.

Overall, this book is an ode to women’s empowerment and drive in terms of overcoming adversity. It’s a story I could not put down, and I encourage all readers to dive into this tale of strength.


Cheer Up: Love and Pompoms

Women-Led Graphic Novels

If you’re looking for a graphic novel that centers on the adventures of a strong, independent, and dynamic female lead character, then look no further than the five books featured in this roundup. From the past to the future to the deeply strange present, all five women have to battle against the odds and trust their own resources as they attempt to find their place in the world.

Smart Girl by Fernando Dagnino

In 2028, the first artificial intelligence processors suitable for mass production were introduced to the market, which gave rise to the development of the first generation of true androids. While this techno-evolutionary jump initially led to a new era of peace and understanding between humanity and androids, as well as to the unprecedented free exchange of knowledge and technology worldwide, corporate greed soon brought this harmonious situation to an end. The tech giant Gorgona crushed all its open-source competition and formed a monopoly with regard to human-computer interfaces. By 2075, Gorgona’s androids had become ubiquitous, including the Smart Girl model, an android servant used for anything the owner might desire. Yuki began life as a standard Smart Girl, but a malfunction caused her to be scheduled for destruction. However, contrary to every other android to date, Yuki doesn’t accept the end that humans have arranged for her and instead becomes self-aware. After fighting back against her abusive owner, Yuki is forced to flee from Gorgona as she attempts to find a way to secure her life and freedom. Fernando Dagnino’s Smart Girl is an exquisitely drawn black and white graphic novel that uses science fiction themes to examine what it really means to be alive.

Cheer Up: Love and Pompoms by Crystal Frasier

Cheer Up: Love and Pompoms by Crystal Frasier is a bright and zany graphic novel that offers a joyful portrayal of the lives of queer teens as they navigate the end of high school and the need to consider their future place in the world. Antisocial lesbian Annie is undoubtedly the smartest kid at her high school, but her likelihood of getting into a good college is limited by the fact that she plays no sports, is a member of no clubs, and generally doesn’t get on with anyone. She’s couldn’t even make it through her mock college interview without calling the guidance counsellor a “tool of a corrupt system.” Meanwhile, Annie’s former best friend Bebe, a people-pleasing trans girl who has finally managed to climb some way up the popularity ladder, is having trouble keeping her grades up and her social life balanced, which she must do if her parents are to continue to support her transition. When both girls are compelled to join the cheerleading squad—apparently for their own good—they unexpectedly find themselves rekindling their friendship as they struggle to balance the training, social pressures, and host of microaggressions that queer youth face while continuing to be true to themselves.

Malika: Warrior Queen Volume 2 by Roye Okupe

On the brink of death after fighting to save her people and empire, Queen Malika came into contract with the Dragon’s Destiny—the strongest weapon ever created—and was given the boost of power required to finally achieve victory over her mortal foe. However, before the dust had a chance to settle, the true evil power behind her enemies’ former success revealed himself and promised to return to destroy the Earth forever. In an attempt to stop this threat from ever coming to pass, Malika was put into the Divine Sleep so that she could rest until the time humanity needed her. That time turns out to be 2025, and in Roye Okupe’s Malika: Warrior Queen Volume 2, Malika is forced to stop hiding in the shadows of a strange future world and instead confront the evil sorcerers of the Olon Jin order, who had been imprisoned for centuries due to their use of dark magic. The Olon Jin are now seeking the Fire and Frost stone, which holds the power of two ancient dragons. When Malika travels to Egypt in search of the stone, she finds herself embroiled in a plot that predates even her own legend. It makes for an action-packed fantasy graphic novel woven from rich African history, culture, and mythology.

Fungirl by Elizabeth Pich

As she obliviously lurches from one wacky misadventure to the next, never learning her lesson and never seeming to master the art of adulting, Fungirl appears to be the epitome of a hot mess, cheerfully leaving destruction and chaos in her wake wherever she goes. Yet, while her escapades might frustrate her roommate, terrify passing teenagers, and destroy any opportunity she has to secure employment, Fungirl maintains a positive, transgressive, and frequently hilarious façade throughout. Every shenanigan that she engages in seems crazy and over the top, but Fungirl’s life somehow still remains tragically realistic and deeply relatable. A lot of her exploits might be unpalatable, but they are still strangely compelling. Elizabeth Pich’s colorful art in Fungirl is simple and cartoonish, portraying a twisted world where reality is exaggerated to highlight the absurdities that all too often go unnoticed.

The Golden Age, Book 2 by Roxanne Moreil and Cyril Pedrosa

A medieval saga packed with political intrigue and deadly danger, The Golden Age series began with Princess Tilda determining to end the drudgery and misery that had long characterized life in the Kingdom of Lantrevers. As the rightful heir to King Ronan, Tilda had intended to free her people for famine and conflict, but when her younger brother usurped the throne and forced her into exile, she had to go on the run with a loyal band of allies and seek a new way to help the citizens of Lantrevers. However, despite her lofty intentions, in Roxanne Moreil and Cyril Pedrosa’s The Golden Age, Book 2, Tilda has become consumed by her desire to reclaim the throne and so urges her army to keep fighting a seemingly futile war without access to food or pay. Tilda appears to have become the very thing she always despised: a brutal and heartless leader. It’s no surprise that rumors of a rebellion by her previously loyal followers are starting to spread. As Tilda’s friend Tankred attempts to broker a deal that could finally turn the tide of the war, she will have to decide if she is really able to relinquish power to the people and become the open-hearted ruler that she originally promised to be.


The Book of Hope: A Survival Guide for Trying Times (Global Icons Series)

The environment looks to be on a fast track to destruction with climate change, fuel consumption, deforestation among the fears that haunt us. World-renowned naturalist Jane Goodall offers a chance of redemption in //The Book of Hope//, a series of astute, intimate interviews co-authored with best-selling writer Douglas Abrams. She expresses continuing faith, offering four reasons for hope: the amazing human intellect, Nature’s resilience, the power of young people, and the indomitable human spirit.

Goodall, with Abram’s sensitivity to draw expansive responses, invites readers to recognize the caveats to be addressed before her enthusiasm captivates us. Poverty has to be alleviated, the unsustainable lifestyles of the affluent curbed, corruption eliminated, and, no less, recognition of multiple problems presented by population growth.

Goodall first drew public attention and sympathy in her twenties with her unique study of chimpanzees and their unexpected similarity with human behavior. Since then, she has traveled the world offering books and presentations to share her perceptions of environmental struggle. Audiences thrive on her stories, the welcome absence of statistics. Her exuberance and sense of humor embrace followers rather than laying a guilt trip. Serious? Emphatically so, but endearingly.


Bubble

Having never heard of the podcast but saw the book’s marketing claim of being based on the smash-hit podcast, I was intrigued. The book is set in a dystopian world where monsters are attacking humans living in the Bubble. As a result, a new trendy gig economy and side hustle emerges to hunt the monsters via the Huntr app.

I get that this was supposed to be a satire and a parody on millennials, but I didn’t find the story that interesting. I found some of the stereotypes like beard hipster guy and peanut-free parents rather outdated and boring. I didn’t think it was funny that Book Club Mom's hive monster was defeated with the serenade of a John Meyer song. I couldn’t get into any of the characters, except for Mitch who was somewhat funny and likable. Despite some funny moments in the story, I really struggled with finishing this graphic novel. Usually, I finish graphic novels in one sitting, but I could not stay focused while reading /Bubble/. As much as I love graphic novels, sadly, this graphic novel just wasn’t for me.


How to Talk Monster

Have you ever wondered how to talk like or understand a monster? Some people think there might be a monster living under their beds, in their closets, or believe in the ones they see on TV. The people who think this are usually scared of those monsters. The boy in How to Talk Monster was the same way; this boy was reading a book with them before going to bed and then got scared. The boy thought he saw one close to him, but his parents didn't believe him. The boy stayed scared until he learned how to talk like a monster, then things got better.

I like how the boy finally decided to try understanding the monster instead of running away from it. When the boy decided not to be scared of it anymore, it was fun because they did everything together. I like how the story was like a comic book, and the pictures had bright colors and were fun to see. I like that there are pages in the back to help people know How to Talk Monster so they won't have to be scared anymore and can talk to each other in a secret language that only they will know!

G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers


Too Much Slime!

Anytime you hear a squish, squelch sound you need to be careful because it could be a monster slime coming to a town near you. That is exactly what happened in Too Much Slime!. When the kids opened the door no one was there, although there was some slime on their porch. The slime quickly got on everything and seemed to grow larger and larger, taking over the town. The townspeople had to come together to save the school and the people from getting taken over by slime. However, the kids decided to hide some slime in a lunchbox, which was a bad idea. Read this book to find out what happens when there is too much slime!

This is a super fun book to read! It is filled with many onomatopoeias! The story didn't end exactly how I expected but this is definitely a fun read. The illustrations were fun, but the green slime took over many of the illustrations!


Dune: House Atreides Vol. 1

Note to editors: my opening line is because the 700 page book I was sent is not the same SKU that you all think you sent, so I wanted to be clear.

This review is for Dune: House Atreides Book 1, not volume 1 (which is a separate publication). It was released in 1999, and was written by Frank Herbert’s son, Brian Herbert, and Kevin J. Anderson. It is based on Frank Herbert’s notes. The plot deals with familiar characters to those who have read the original Dune (1965) and adds in some new ones. It takes place a few decades before the plot of the 1965 novel. Some of the most interesting characters, like Leto, Kynes, and the Baron Harkonnen are major players here and we learn more about the Bene Gesserit plan. In keeping with the Dune genre, the storyline is intricate and complicated. The downside of this project is in the lack of depth of the original. Dune (1965) creates a philosophy, almost a religion, a seeking of the human experience in a science fiction form that works on a deep level. This doesn’t have those elements. So, while the plot is certainly engaging, it fell flat for me. But, at the same time, as a Dune fan, I love that this offers more information about the Dune universe.


Mud Sweeter than Honey: Voices of Communist Albania

This book is a bit hard to follow, which is disappointing as the story of Communist Albania is largely ignored in the United States. Margo Rejmer collects stories, lives, and other aspects of Albania under Communist rule and explores how people were largely shut off from the outside world. Many people were not allowed to leave the country, and people from the outside were generally not allowed in. Like other Communist countries, the leadership started to become more paranoid over time, until they believed they were the only Communist country and all the others had given in to the Capitalistic West and the evils that it entailed.

I was anticipating more of a collection of oral interviews and people telling their stories of living in a small European country that was highly internal and nothing allowed in from the outside. What I got instead is a series of short stories that are presented in no real order and move around in both time and place. It is hard to know if there is any rhyme or reason to why certain stories are in certain spots.


It's OK, Slow Lizard

In the forest, live a variety of creatures, one busy, another mighty, and still another speedy. Funny Monkey and Slow Lizard dwell there, too. Little Bird, who scurries around anxiously, is trying to prepare for tomorrow, a never-ending task for her. Mighty Elephant has minimal tolerance for frustrations, and Speedy Rabbit sadly loses an important race. Slow Lizard goes through life at a snail’s pace, so he notices things around him like when others need help or comfort. He offers a hand or support. When the other forest-dwellers follow his example, they begin to see the beauty in life and embrace what really matters.

In a world that moves at lightning speed, It’s Ok, Slow Lizard provides a necessary reminder that much can be lost in the hustle of everyday life if one isn’t careful. This lesson is essential for children to absorb as they grow and develop into healthy, well-balanced teenagers and adults. Their schedules are often overflowing with activities and commitments, so they’ll likely relate to this poignant message and will adore the precious animals woven through the story. The illustrations feature soft, autumn hues and complement the warm, gentle tone of the text. Youth ages four to eight will savor this sweet tale.


Spirituality Roundup

Are you seeking to become more blessed and less stressed? Would you benefit from delving deeper into magic and divination in order to believe in yourself and unlock your true potential? While a spiritual journey of this sort may seem daunting at first, these five titles will help to inspire and enrich your life.

Pagan Curious: A Beginner's Guide to Nature, Magic & Spirituality by Debra DeAngelo

Pagan Curious: A Beginner's Guide to Nature, Magic & Spirituality takes you on a journey through a rich and vibrant self-reflective world full of the magic and mysticism of old. Debra DeAngelo expertly teaches spiritual and magic practices that leave you full of intrigue and keen to learn more. Methods such as meditation, grounding, and centering are used to help you become more attuned to nature and the pagan deities. Throughout the process, the self-reflection exercises enable a deeper understanding of yourself so that you can personalize your discovery of paganism. DeAngelo expertly answers all the questions that a beginner might have and also provides practical guidance. If you are looking to dip into the magical world of paganism, this book will prove to be a valuable resource. DeAngelo asks all the important questions and challenges the reader to seek their authentic self.

Cirque du Tarot by Leeza Robertson

For both established lovers of tarot and beginners who want to explore the world of tarot, this beautiful beginner’s deck is highly recommended. Featuring dreamlike circus imagery, Cirque du Tarot is certainly among the most eye-catching decks currently available on the market. Even seasoned readers will be drawn to this deck, and it would likewise appeal to collectors. The deck includes clear indicators of the court cards and does a good job of portraying the traditional tarot deck. It showcases the excitement of the circus and provides a glimpse at the behind-the-scenes charm of the practice while following the well-established Rider-Waite-Smith symbology. The included guidebook helps to familiarize readers with the cards. Particularly for those drawn to the magic of the circus, this tarot set will fast become a favorite and help to bring out the best of the craft.

Rise of the Witch: Making Magick Happen Your Way by Whiskey Stevens

For readers who have been wanting to explore witchcraft but had no idea where to start, Rise of the Witch: Making Magick Happen Your Way is really the ideal book. Whiskey Stevens covers a wide variety of topics, starting with the history of witchcraft and moving on to practical topics such as working with spells. There are also more advanced topics covered, which means the book should also appeal to seasoned witches. Stevens helps the reader to empower themselves, which is especially important for situations where Wicca is shunned and for those who are forced into secrecy. Subjects such as sex magic and shadow work, tarot, meditation, and the idea of sacred spaces and energies are covered, and the book should help to guide all readers toward their own purpose within the craft.

Winterseer Animal Oracle by Siolo Thompson

The Winterseer Animal Oracle is a beautiful animal-themed oracle that should appeal to any reader of tarot. The fifty-six-card oracle deck features stunning watercolor illustrations by Siolo Thompson on stark white backgrounds that make the images appear very striking. Along with the wonderfully inspired writing of the guidebook, this deck should appeal to visually oriented readers and those who are touched by the written word. Grounded in Celtic and Norse lore, the deck helps readers to deepen their knowledge of this divination practice, while the wondrous mythological designs from days of yore serve to inspire and enrich twenty-first-century life. For those looking for something different to inspire their readings, this deck should be at the top of the list.

City Witchery: Accessible Rituals, Practices & Prompts for Conjuring and Creating in a Magical Metropolis by Lisa Marie Basile

City Witchery: Accessible Rituals, Practices & Prompts for Conjuring and Creating in a Magical Metropolis is the book for all Wiccans looking to practice magic as city dwellers. Normally, magic is associated with the natural world, rather than with built-up urban spaces, but this handy guide helps users to practice the craft effectively in places where otherworldly resources and space are normally limited. This is a book designed to assist readers in tapping into their inner resources and starting on the way to practicing graveyard rituals, tuning into city astrology, and practicing shadow work. It is possible to practice the rituals in the kitchen of any house or apartment, and readers will discover the limitations of their cities in order to tap into potentially hidden energies. It is certainly possible to be a city dweller and practice the craft, it just requires thinking about the environment in a different way.


Radar Girls

I was really excited to read Radar Girls by Sara Ackerman as I love historical fiction, especially with female main characters. Ackerman starts readers out on a beautiful Hawaiian beach where Daisy Wilder is digging her toes in the sand moments before the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. What follows is a beautifully written story of friendship, family, and love, as Daisy joins the Women’s Air Raid Defense (W.A.R.D.) team guiding the US flyboys to safety.

Ackerman’s loveable characters lure you into new friendships and the bonds created during that difficult time. The romance involves not only the main characters but also those looking for love and those trying to maintain their love during time of war. It’s all told with a splash of nail-biting excitement as the women work to protect the Hawaiian Islands.

Although I really liked this book, I did feel that the title is a little misleading. I felt like the W.A.R.D was nothing more than the backdrop for a story about love and friendship. I would have liked to see a greater tribute to these amazing women. One thing I did find difficult was the use of Hawaiian words that I was not familiar with. I wish there was a little more context provided to help us mainlanders.


Song of the Forever Rains (The Mousai, 1)

This story had potential. Larkyra, the youngest of three magically gifted sisters, has recently returned from her thirty-day Lierenfast. Having survived in the city alone and without magic for thirty days, she is now permitted to partake in missions. Her first mark is the Duke of Lachlan. She must suss out how he is smuggling Phorria from the Thief Kingdom and using it to siphon magic off his subjects. Feigning interest in an engagement with the duke, Larkyra gains access to his estate, where she searches for answers. Along the way she falls for the duke’s stepson and uncovers a more devious plot.

I felt there were two stories for very different audiences being weaved together, which left it unpalatable. On the one hand, there was a young storyline with meet cutes, petty sister squabbling, cliched moments, and emotionally immature characters. On the other hand, there was a dark and mature storyline that tackled themes of forced self-mutilation and abuse. There were also questionable scenes around consent that didn’t fit either audience and could have been re-written to send a more positive message about survival versus victimization. Overall, a missed opportunity.


Maya and the Robot

Maya and the Robot is a stunning story about a young girl named Maya who is starting fifth grade. When she arrives on the first day of school, she realizes that her best friends are in a different class. Maya has no idea what she will do in her new class; she doesn’t think she'll make friends. When Maya finds a robot named Ralph in Mr. Mac’s closet, she does everything she can to get him up and running. When Ralph is finally working, Maya feels a lot better about school, but little does she know that she doesn’t need Ralph to feel happy.

Maya and the Robot is a brilliant work of art. I would recommend it to kids aged five to ten as they can relate to Maya and how she feels. This story would be great for kids who love science, and it could also be perfect for those who may be having a hard time in school. Kids who are starting to read chapter books would enjoy Maya and the Robot.


The Least of Us: True Tales of America and Hope in the Time of Fentanyl and Meth

The United States government declared war on drugs fifty years ago. The drugs that have come under scrutiny during public outrages have varied, but the human misery has remained unchanged. The opioid crisis in America has carved a large swath of destruction, with oxycontin and fentanyl figuring most prominently in the epidemics in towns and cities. Oxycontin was touted as an efficacious pain drug with little chance of addiction, touted by its maker Purdue Pharma that is.

Purdue gave their sales personnel their orders: Get to know the local doctors and sell them on oxycontin’s benefits. Soon, oxycontin was raking in billions, while its users became addicted and their lives were changed. Fentanyl was marketed as an alternative to morphine, but when in the wrong hands, it became a new high to market to the addict. The current war is being fought on all fronts, from law enforcement to community outreach.

The Least of Us is a heartrending depiction of the current phase of the quixotic drug war. Sam Quinones covers the human drama with an admirable empathy while detailing the various personas involved in different aspects of the opioid crisis. The stories offered will remain ingrained in the reader’s mind because they’re so powerful.


Squirrel Do Bad (1) (Trubble Town)

The town of Trubble is where odd things happen. In the town, there is a little girl named Wendy the Wanderer. One day, Wendy gives sugar to a squirrel and then the town of Trubble explodes. How did it happen? Read this wacky book and find out!

Squirrel Do Bad has a good story. It is hilarious and will make you crack up laughing. The characters in the book are a sheriff, Squirrely McSquirrel (a squirrel as you may have guessed), a mayor, and many other characters. I thought it was silly that they called a drink “mooshie”. If you are a Dog Man fan, you are sure to enjoy reading the stories in the Trubble Town series.

I think someone who likes books with a lot of dynamite and explosives will enjoy this book. Have fun reading all about Wendy and SquirreIy. I highly recommend this book to people who love silly and funny graphic novels. I hope you read this book, and I hope you like it, because I really enjoyed reading it.


I Am Smoke

This is a picture book about the story of smoke and all its mystery and magic. It is made from water vapor, carbon dioxide, and ash, and it can help people or cause them harm. Humans have used smoke for centuries. The Huron farmers used it to sprout their pumpkin seeds. Ancient Greeks smoked out living spaces to drive away rodents and pests. Native Americans used it to signal each other over great distances, as did the people in Ancient China. Smoke is used in religious ceremonies to burn incense and in prayer, and beekeepers smoke bees so they can harvest honey.

In poetic prose, Hertz explains to young readers the many ways that smoke has shaped civilization. He also includes back matter that goes into additional detail about the cultures noted in the story and how they have used smoke. Lopez’s illustrations are haunting and creative, achieving a unique form of smoke impressions by suspending art paper over candle flames and then finishing the images using watercolors and Photoshop. It is a beautiful book that gives smoke a voice, one that is both playful and devious.


Just Haven't Met You Yet

Just Haven’t Met You Yet is a super cute and fun read. It’s something you start for a pallet cleanser or if your life is in need of some light. I love romance. Laura and I have that in common; both of us are hopeless romantics. Hopeless romantics that love anything and everything to do with love. Laura has it set in her mind how she wants her love story to go. When she accidentally swaps suitcases with a mysterious man from the airport, Laura feels like she’s finally found her dream man. But life always has other things in store for us, and sometimes it doesn’t go the way we planned it to. Along Laura’s quest to find her dream man, she meets Ted, a taxi driver, whom she takes on this mighty adventure. It’s then that she realizes things about herself that she never knew before. I love that there are funny parts and also parts that showed how vulnerable it could be. I like having a mixture of emotions when reading books. Laura’s quest for love has never been so exciting to read about. If you’re in need of a book that’s about finding love and finding yourself, this is the book for you!  I can’t wait to check out other books by Cousens.


Bluebird

Bluebird is an amazing historical fiction novel set shortly after World War Two. In this story, Eva Gerst leaves Berlin to travel to America. When she arrives, she meets several new friends. These new friends help take care of her friend, Brigit, as Eva searches for her father. Eva's father was a doctor in charge of Project Bluebird, an experiment at concentration camps. He has fled to America, and now the Soviets and Americans are looking for him. Both want the secrets of Project Bluebird, but Eva does not. She wants justice, and she is determined to do anything to get it.

Overall, this was a very good book. It was filled with suspense, and very fun to read. This book was also very well written, there were a few major twists that made the story more interesting. I really enjoyed reading about the Powell House, and how the American Friends Service Committee helped immigrants adjust to living in the United States. I would recommend this book to young adults, especially those interested in World War Two.


The Neighbor's Secret: A Novel

The Cottonwood Estates is a wonderful place to live and raise your children. That’s what all the women in the Cottonwood Book Club believe anyway. There’s Annie, a middle school counselor, who has a teenage daughter who is going through something but she can’t figure out what. There’s Jen, who is struggling to keep the fact her son might have conduct disorder from everyone. There’s also Lena, whose husband died fifteen years ago and hasn’t participated in anything since. Maybe Cottonwood isn’t as great as its residents make out. Before you move there, you might want to know The Neighbor’s Secret.

This story has a very similar feel to Liane Moriarty’s Big Little Lies, so if you enjoyed that as much as I did, then you will definitely enjoy this book. Something I truly loved about it was the building of suspense throughout. You know that something bad happened and will happen again, but it isn’t clear exactly what until the end. The book is peppered with little hints that make you think you know what’s happening and who did it, only to find out you weren’t even close to right. I couldn’t put it down; it was so intriguing.


Our Violent Ends (These Violent Delights)

The sequel picks up several months after Juliette and Roma joined forces to defeat the Huangpu River Monster. The tenuous peace between the Scarlets and the White Flowers has been shattered, with Juliette being held culpable for the alleged death of Roma’s cousin.

Having addressed the cranial-boring insect threat in book one, I was skeptical of the direction book two would take. As the plot slowly unfolds, it follows a parallel storyline to book one but on a much larger scale. We are introduced to a blackmailer who is controlling not one but five monsters, the workers are rioting, the Nationalists and Communists are inciting a civil war, both gangs have spies within, and there is a poignant discussion about the distribution of a vaccine.

Although there were bigger events in book two, as a reader, I struggled to see both the connections within the chaos and the motivation behind the various sub-plots. I found myself having to re-read passages to figure out why something was being positioned as significant or why a seemingly simple action was being over-dramatized. With that said, if you enjoyed book one of this series, you will undoubtably appreciate book two.


Jonna and the Unpossible Monsters Vol. 1 (1)

Tween Graphic Novels

Graphic novels make for great reads for people of all ages, although the five titles featured in this roundup are particularly geared toward the tween audience. From a realistic story of a young girl trying to fit in, to thrill-packed fantasy and science fiction adventures, and on to an engaging account of the history of puddings, these five graphic novels have something to offer all young readers.

Huda F Are You? by Huda Fahmy

When Huda and her family move to Dearborn, Michigan, she finds life there surprisingly different from in her old town. The biggest change relates to the fact that Dearborn is a small town with a large Muslim population, which means that there’s no welcoming Muslim clique for Huda to neatly fit into. Having become used to being defined by her Muslim identity, Huda is discombobulated to discover that she’s going to have to find a more precise niche for herself if she’s going to join a friendship group. Having determined that she’s neither sporty, fashionable, nor a gamer, she decides to try out a whole host of identities and personas and see which suits her best. But what will she do if none of them seem right? Huda Fahmy’s Huda F Are You? is a highly amusing and very insightful coming-of-age tale about a young Muslim girl struggling to find her place in the world.

Jonna and the Unpossible Monsters Vol. 1 by Chris Samnee and Laura Samnee

Rainbow has been on a year-long quest to find her missing father and somewhat feral adopted sister Jonna ever since they disappeared following the sudden arrival of mysterious monsters and the collapse of the world’s water cycle. She travels from settlement to settlement following rumors and seeking news of her lost loved ones, dodging monsters and helping survivors as she does so. Things start to look up for Rainbow, however, when she hears that Jonna has been spotted out in the wilderness, disheveled and wild but otherwise seemingly okay. But when Rainbow finally tracks her sister down, she discovers that there is at least one major change in her: Jonna now has sufficient super-strength to knock out a monster with a single punch. Jonna and the Unpossible Monsters Vol. 1 by Chris Samnee and Laura Samnee is an action-packed and vividly illustrated adventure story that follows the two sisters as they explore the strange new world in which they find themselves.

Star Beasts by Stephanie Young and Allyson Lassiter

Loyal pup Bandit was living a pleasantly lazy ordinary life on Earth with his family when he was called up to join the Star Beasts, a top-secret group of creatures dedicated to protecting the planet and being a force for good in the wider universe. While Bandit is excited by his new mission, he has trouble fitting in with the other Star Beasts and also misses his home. However, when Khaos Krill, the evil emperor of Pluto, attempts to build a Novataur, a mythical monster said to be capable of destroying planets, Bandit has to work with a band of other Star Beasts to track down deadly galactic fossils and thwart Krill’s plan. Accompanied by a warrior turtle, a goldfish historian, a healing tiger, a techie iguana, and other brave beasts, Bandit sets out on a dangerous race across space to find the fossils and restore peace to the galaxy. Zany and full of fun-packed adventure, Stephanie Young and Allyson Lassiter’s Star Beasts explains the surprising real reason Pluto isn’t a planet anymore.

5 Worlds Book 5: The Emerald Gate by Mark Siegel and Alexis Siegel

5 Worlds Book 5: The Emerald Gate by Mark Siegel and Alexis Siegel marks the thrilling conclusion to an epic science fiction/fantasy adventure story that spans planets and features both brave heroes and dastardly villains. In advance of the forthcoming final battle, Oona, Jax, and An Tzu travel to the perilous world of Grimbo (E), where Oona must light the last beacon and so save the 5 Worlds, if only she knew for sure where the beacon is located. Fortunately, an encounter with an old friend of Jax provides a clue that points the trio toward the beacon and launches them on a dangerous quest across the watery planet in search of it. For his part, the nefarious Stan Moon has hatched another plot to destroy the 5 Worlds through his growing evil powers and increasing connection to An Tzu. Oona and her friends are going to have to risk everything to finally put an end to Stan Moon’s evil machinations.

Yummy: A History of Desserts by Victoria Grace Elliott

In Yummy: A History of Desserts, Victoria Grace Elliott presents an enthralling and highly appetizing account of the surprising history of delicious, sugary desserts. Through a host of facts, stories, and recipes, she takes readers on a whistle-stop tour of all things delectable, accompanied by the charming and often hilarious food sprite Peri. Between the pair of them, they investigate the major puzzles that have intrigued dessert lovers for years. For instance, they reveal how a mistake led to the invention of the brownie and how an unlikely team-up led to the development of ice cream cones. They also explore how cream first came to be frozen and who first decided that it might be a good idea to encase fruit in pastry. And after they set out the true stories of some of the world’s favorite treats, they provide recipes so that readers can try the delicacies for themselves. It all makes for a globe-trotting culinary adventure that is near impossible to put down.


Running Is a Kind of Dreaming: A Memoir

Reading about J.M. Thompson’s accomplishments and present life, you’d think he has plenty to brag about. He’s a well-educated psychologist, a physically fit ultramarathon runner, and an ordained Zen practitioner. He’s also married and has two children. He doesn’t do any bragging in this book, though.

Running Is a Kind of Dreaming explores the cosmic range of human emotion. Thompson drags the reader through the depths of trauma, depression, addiction, and suicidal thought. He tells us the reality that prefaced his return to the lighter side of life, with his own happily ever after.

This memoir is so well written that it’s hard to read through the passages about drug use. It’s vivid in each moment. Thompson refuses to hold back. He paints an intricate image of the highs and lows of the human experience—the mundane, cosmic joys felt after emerging from the unbearable, imploding depressions. Distance running is both a refuge from and a metaphor for this human struggle: “The trick is to abandon any attachment to getting anywhere and just put your head down and march up the mountain, grunting.”

By the end, Thompson comes across as a revolutionary force in clinical psychology.


The Sleep Fix: Practical, Proven, and Surprising Solutions for Insomnia, Snoring, Shift Work, and More

ABC news anchor Diane Macedo presents testimonials from professionals and everyday folk who suffer from sleep problems in The Sleep Fix. It offers many solutions to issues related to sleep problems, such as insomnia, sleep apnea, and narcolepsy, which are simple changes to anyone’s sleep routine. In five parts and twenty-seven chapters, topics such as sleep drive, circadian rhythms, sleep habits, and sleep environment are discussed, including ways to deal with an overactive mind, scheduling, alcohol and caffeine, and nutrition. Macedo presents the “practical, proven, and surprising solutions” well, understandably, and in a step-by-step format.

Even though it’s a lengthy book, I enjoyed learning that there are a variety of options when suffering from a sleeping problem. Knowing multiple people who claim to have insomnia or are sleep deprived, I could easily gift this book to them and feel confident that their sleep issues would improve. Many options in the book relate to mental and physical health, which is something I don’t think people consider. The suggestions in this book encompass every area of sleep disturbance and should be tried at once!


House of Glass Hearts

They don't talk about the past. The past is where Maera's brother is, and where they banished all their family's heartache and grief. When Maera's grandfather dies his greenhouse, one that should be all the way on the other side of the world, appears in her backyard, it leaves her with a mystery that must be solved, one that all the answers lay in the past. With the help of a few friends, Maera ventures into the greenhouse in search of her brother, but what she finds is not what she expects, nor is it what she hoped for.

The story begins by just dumping the reader in, this isn't necessarily a bad thing, but it threw me off to have no idea what was going on. I didn't find any of the characters interesting and the attraction between them felt odd, forced, and completely unnecessary. Maera's mother is always conveniently out of the way and didn't add anything to the story. I did really enjoy the different perspectives of WWII and learned a few things, but overall I didn't care for the writing style and found myself skimming more often than not.


The Auschwitz Photographer: The Forgotten Story of the WWII Prisoner Who Documented Thousands of Lost Souls

The Auschwitz Photographertells the true story of Wilhelm Brasse, an inmate who took the photos of thousands of doomed souls. Brasse was brought to the concentration camp as a political prisoner because of his refusal to fight. He was offered a job as an intake photographer due to his prior experience and his heritage. He witnessed and experienced horrendous situations while he was an inmate at Auschwitz, the type of atrocities that only show themselves during wars. In the end, he made a decision that was the reason so many stories got told.

This book by Luca Crippa and Maurizio Onnis allows readers to be engulfed in the world Wilhelm Brasse and his colleagues were facing. Feeling the anguish and despair but also the embers of hope, which would eventually light. The writer allows readers to be immersed through the first-person narrative but it still feels believable. Additionally, the writer did well at setting and illustrating the location in the reader’s mind. I would recommend this book to people who likes history and nonfiction, or who are trying to learn more about related topics. I would also recommend it to an older age group due to the war crimes and atrocities mentioned.


It Ends in Fire

As herself, Alka is a rebel, orphaned years before when a wizard brutally killed her parents. She survived by finding her father’s friend, Whispers, and training as part of the rebel group that wants to take down the wizards. But as Lady Alayne DeWinter, she is a wizard who has enrolled in Blackwater Academy, a prestigious school for wizards attended by only the best and brightest. Upon reaching the school, she is assigned to her order, the Nethros, for those who are basically expected to fail. However, Alka is not good at hiding in the shadows and playing dead. With her new friends, she makes some powerful enemies that could derail her mission before she has a chance to avenge her parents.

Similarities to the Harry Potter universe––orders instead of houses, balitesta instead of quidditch, the Great Game instead of the Tri-Wizard Tournament––abound, making this a great book for older readers, as LGBTQ themes are included and sexual situations are more mature. In between chapters, Alka reveals her character through flashbacks of her hard life, making her the hero that fantasy fiction is waiting for. It’s a must read for fans of Shvarts’ Royal Bastards series.


Star Beasts


Lightning Down: A World War II Story of Survival

In this riveting account, bestselling author Tom Clavin describes the harrowing story of Joe Moser, a quiet man from a small town in Washington whose greatest dream is of flying. Joe joins the forces as an Allied airman. It’s during his forty-fourth combat mission in August 1944 that his Lightening P-38 is shot down by enemy fire. He’s captured by Germans, sent to Fresnes prison, and then on to Buchenwald, an infamous Nazi concentration camp. Nine months and three transfers later, by the grace of God and some courageous souls, Joe is one of the lucky ones who makes it out alive.

In Lightening Down: A World War II Story of Survival, a powerful portrait of human suffrage is crafted. The delineations of life inside the concentration camps and the thoughts and actions of the prisoners who endured them are at times startlingly vivid and truly horrifying. They will manifest in readers a mix of emotions: from deep sadness to sheer fury for those who committed such unspeakable atrocities. The author does a brilliant job of conveying the facts, backed by extensive research and background knowledge, and weaving in acts of humanity that illuminate an otherwise dark and ominous path. This is an unforgettable contribution to literature.


The Witch Haven

Frances Hallowell feels as if luck has abandoned her at every turn. First, it’s the mysterious death of her brother, then she finds herself on the cusp of a dark situation when her boss forces himself upon her. Then, in the very next moment, he collapses in a pool of his own blood with a pair of sewing scissors plunged in his neck. The thing is, Frances wasn’t the one who put them there. Strangely enough, this is the very moment Frances’ life takes a turn, opening the door to a new life she never expected… What is disguised as a sanitarium, Frances quickly learns, is actually an academy for witches, and Frances’ life will never be the same. Now, thrown amid a struggle for magical power, Frances must quickly decipher her newfound magic, the sacred bonds of sisterhood, a budding romance, and the answers behind her brother’s death in order to decide what truly matters most.

Sasha Peyton Smith whisks readers right into the middle of 1911 while delivering a story of magic, witches, sacrifice, and female power. With a cast of strong female characters and wonderful magic, The Witch Haven highlights the lengths one will go to for answers while weighing the sacrifices one must make along the way.

Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers


Bad Sister

In this book, you’ll meet Charise. She’s energetic, helpful, and she loves her cat. She’s also an older sister. Ever since her little brother, Daniel, was born, Charise just can’t help bossing him around. As the years go by, Charise turns into a bad sister. When Charise goes too far and breaks Daniel’s tooth, can Charise finally see and make up for all she’s done? And will she ever become a good sister?

Bad Sister is an amazing, honest, and heartfelt story about Harper’s childhood life and how she was a bad sister. I like how the illustrator penciled this book digitally using Procreate. I thought all the different stories in the book and what good and bad times Charise and Daniel had together were very interesting. I recommend this to whoever can relate to this story or whenever rivalry, fighting, or bossing around with your sibling, Bad Sister is a book you can relate to. When you’re Charise, it’s hard to stop being mean after all those years, especially when you’re used to being a bad sister.


Burning Down the House: Newt Gingrich and the Rise of the New Republican Party

In 2016, former Speaker of the House of Representatives Newt Gingrich was in the limelight again. He was under consideration for the VP slot under Republican candidate Donald Trump. Gingrich had resigned as House Speaker in 1998 after an extramarital affair was exposed, which others pointed to as hypocrisy because Democrat President Bill Clinton was being impeached due to crimes relating to his own extramarital affair. However, Gingrich had become a staple on FoxNews and other conservative outlets, often sought out for his sage advice. He was admired and reviled for his confrontational politics. He was elected to Congress in 1978, and his ambition was quickly apparent to his new colleagues. Gingrich wanted to overturn the Democrat majority in Congress, and he soon targeted House Speaker Jim Wright for scrutiny. Wright had been in Congress for over thirty years, but ethical lapses left him prone for an investigation. Gingrich summoned forces to dethrone Wright.

Burning Down the House is a powerful illustration of politics as blood sport. Author Julian Zelizer focuses on the two men at the heart of the struggle, the powerful but flawed Wright and his nemesis, the aspiring Congressman Gingrich. The war for the future of the legislative body proves captivating in its telling.


Beirut 2020: Diary of the Collapse

Lebanon, once a jewel of the Middle East, has become synonymous with decline and state capture and nothing captured that more than when over 2,000 pounds of ammonia nitrate exploded in Beirut, killing hundreds and rending the fabric of society even further. Award-winning author Charif Majdalani started recording his thoughts about the current situation in Lebanon and actually began the work a couple of months before the explosion. He details how successive governments have stripped the country, how nothing works, and no one is ever held responsible for the situation. He describes the country as a mafia-like kingdom, and that is exactly what it has been since the end of the civil war in 1990. Readers will learn about how inconveniences can become tragedies, and the effort needed to keep some semblance of order slowly slip into the sea. The country was already on the verge of total collapse, with a worthless currency, crippled banks, and no jobs or prospects. Young people are chronicled leaving the country en masse, leaving a remnant that is both poorer and more at risk of total state failure.


Let's Make Cake! (Bobo and Pup-Pup)

Bobo and Pup-pup: Let's Make a Cake! is a fun chapter book that is easy to read and understand and laugh at. In the story, Bobo and Pup-pup decide that cake sounds good to eat and want to make one for themselves. Pup-pup reads the recipe and Bobo gets the things. The things he gets are not always what Pup-pup reads to him, so it is funny to see what he comes back with. The two friends don't do everything right on the recipe, but they try their hardest and figure out new ways of doing things when they don't have what they need.

I like that Bobo and Pup-pup worked together and realized that they didn't have to do it right, but it mattered that they did it together and had fun! I liked that I could read this whole book and that the chapters were shorter. Kids my age will love this book because I did!


In My Dreams I Hold a Knife

In My Dreams I Hold a Knife tells the story of the East House Seven. These seven friends from Duquette University were inseparable, that is until one of them, Heather, was murdered senior year. It’s been ten years since graduation and it’s time for a college reunion. Heather’s brother has a plan to figure out which of them murdered her, but his task won’t be easy. All six of them have so many secrets and each of them has a motive for wanting Heather dead. Some of them will do anything to keep their secrets buried.

I really enjoyed this book. It was impossible to put down and I thoroughly enjoyed the dual timelines and different points of view. My only critique is the title makes zero sense. The murder weapon is a pair of scissors that are even on the cover of the book, so I’m not sure where the knife comes in, even after reading the whole story. The characters and their friendships with each other were so dark and gritty, each one more than what they appear on the surface. If you enjoy psychological thrillers about people with secrets, I recommend you check out Winstead’s debut novel.


Strange Beasts of China

Yong’an City is full of all kinds of strange beasts. These beasts live and work alongside the city’s human inhabitants. Among these are the Sorrowful beasts, who love vanilla ice cream and the Flourishing beasts who have lived as gardeners since ancient times. Other than serrated earlobes or a strange birthmark, many beasts have very human characteristics. And all these beasts have their own story. One young journalist has set document the city’s beasts. With the help of her zoology professor and his young assistant, the journalist uncovers the beasts’ stories and learns much about herself along the way.

Strange Beasts of China is the latest work by Yan Ge.  First published in 2020 and translated into English in 2021, Ge has joined the surge of Chinese sci-fi masters making a splash with Western sci-fi readers.  Named by People’s Literature magazine as a Future Literature Master, Ge has created a masterpiece that is part detective story and part love story.  Ge is able to bring these peculiar and innovative beasts to life through her illustrative writing style.  As creative and fun as these beasts are, this story explores questions of humanity, morality, and identity.  Enjoy this wonderful novel, but be warned, you might discover what beast you really are.


Anemone is not the Enemy

I have been to the beach before and I love to watch a cartoon about ocean animals. Anemone is not the Enemy is a good book for kids who like the ocean, especially anemones that live in the ocean. In this story, Anemone is lonely and wants a friend. Anemone must wait for the high tide for potential friends. When the high tide comes, Anemone must know how to act around new fish to make them want to be her friend. Anemone wonders if she'll ever find someone to be her friend or if she's stuck being lonely and alone forever.

I learned a lot from reading this book. I like that it is one that I can read by myself. I like that I learned how an anemone acts around other fish and how it can hurt and help them. I like watching what is going on around Anemone on the beach with the silly hermit crabs; the pictures are calm and not busy. I like how the book ends and how it is a happy ending for some characters and a not-so-happy ending for other characters. I learned that it is better to try being nice to someone first instead of being mean right away.


Lucy in the Sky

Twelve-year-old Lucy Sutcliffe is having a hard time. At school, she feels like her friends are all leaving her out. Worst of all, how can her family depend on Lucy’s upbeat, fun-loving grandmother when she’s sick and not getting better? Everything seems down, but when Lucy discovers a box of her father’s Beatles records, she sees an opportunity and forms an all-girl rock band with her friends. Can she keep the band and everything else together when arguments, crushes, and dilemmas start to break it up?

This is a story about friendship drama, family, and music––perfect for people who like comics or graphic novels about rock music. Though I am not a big fan of the illustrations and colors, the story is amazing and full of detail. I like how different all the characters are, and how this book got me to know the Beatles. The only problem is, the panels and words are small and slightly hard to read. Overall, it’s a good book. Recommended for young fans who love the Beatles or any other rock band.


Whose Fault?! Not Mine!

“Join Mike the Tiger and his friends Penny and Miles as Mike learns an important life lesson. Sometimes things are not our fault. And sometimes they are. Either way, it’s okay! Beautifully illustrated with vibrant colors and the cutest tigers, antelopes, and zebras you’ve ever seen, young children will adore this book.” --Kristi Elizabeth, Manhattan Book Review


Blood Perfect: A Joe Turner Mystery

Criminal Defense Attorney Joe Turner finds himself defending a man who seems all too guilty in Blood Perfect. When Joe hears from Amanda "the one who got away" Kensey, she is reaching out to him to let him know there is a gardener that her mother knows who needs a defense attorney. The man, Allston Walker, is accused of stabbing his landlord over a late rent payment. The landlord claims he was sleeping at the time and that Mr. Walker came in and stabbed him with a knife. Walker says he didn't do it, however, his deadpan personality and lack of willingness to help Joe make this case a tough one. With shady characters who seem to know something but are keeping their mouths shut, Joe really has his work cut out for him. Joe starts falling for Amanda all over again and she seems to be falling for him. With romance in the air, Joe finds himself distracted, thinking about Amanda. He knows he needs to hustle to find evidence or witnesses to prove his client is innocent though.

Blood Perfect is written extremely well with an excellent plot and colorful characters. Joe Turner is both self-loathing and sarcastic which makes him the perfect defense attorney. Many times, when there is court dialogue included in a story, the author gets carried away with all of the legal jargon. In Blood Perfect, the chapters that take place in the courtroom are easy to read and easy to follow. I felt this made the story flow more smoothly and connected the dots so that the reader could see what Joe's next move should be. Does he need another witness? Is something missing that he overlooked?

Because this book is part of a series, one might think it would be difficult to understand Joe as a character without reading the other books. This is not the case. Blood Perfect reads well as a standalone book and the author gives the reader some of Joe's history without pausing the main story. Joe's backstory about his father being killed and how the author integrates Joe's father's best friend, Matt into the story really helps the reader to get to know a little more about Joe and his upbringing.

Overall, Blood Perfect is a fantastic read for fans of courtroom drama, light detective work, and endings with a twist. This book will keep you interested from cover to cover.


Animal Wrongs

Animal Wrongs by Stephen Spotte is not necessarily for those who enjoy light reading material. The plot consists of three increasingly absurd trials based on historical records from medieval France that are told from the perspectives of the two lawyers pitted against each other for the duration of the novel. Monsieur Chassenee acts on behalf of the defense, which includes rats accused of thievery, a pig accused of murder, and a supposed werewolf, while Monsieur Revigny (a literal demon from Hell) functions on behalf of the prosecution.

Dry, ironic, and filled with witty satire, the author has created a kind of mash-up between a Good Omens-style buddy comedy and a classic Monty Python’s Flying Circus skit. While I enjoyed the banter between the main characters and the relevant applications of the questions of morality and punishment to the modern world, the book simply felt a little too drawn out to effectively keep my attention. None of the cases presented in the story are about flogging dead horses, but the meandering philosophical arguments woven throughout the book could possibly serve as a stand-in metaphor for doing so.


Good Night, Toucan

Toucan decides to throw a slumber party for his best friends and is thrilled that they will all be coming. His excitement quickly fades to fear when the expectation for this event becomes impossibly high. When his friends say his party will be “perfect” or “the best”, Toucan worries that his event will fall short of expectations. Toucan stresses over every detail, making sure the party is as amazing as his friends are imagining. When his party guests arrive, Toucan is still running errands to ensure everything goes smoothly for the party. The party-goers only notice one thing that is missing- the host of the slumber party. Toucan learns that his friends didn’t come for the decorations, lights, and food- but to spend time with him.

This story shows that personal connections are far more important than superficial details. Author and illustrator, Joanne Parris displays emotions beautifully through each characters’ expressions. Toucan’s emotions and vulnerability are extremely relatable for kids that feel the need to be perfect. Good Night, Toucan is an excellent way to approach event-related anxiety for children ages three to seven.