Fog & Fireflies

Fog & Fireflies is exactly the sort of book I would have loved to find as a teenager. It’s set in a magical world that combines darkness and whimsy, old gods and mundane dangers, mythical backdrops and grounded descriptions. Even now that I have outgrown my teenage years, I still found wonder and joy in it, and I do not doubt that it will bring wonder and joy to many actual teens.

Ogma is a teenage girl (of uncertain age; we only know that she is not yet old enough to be considered an adult) who lives in a village hemmed in by deadly fog. The fog is deadliest to adults, leaving the children of the village to keep watch on the border walls. They must learn at an early age that they cannot always trust their eyes and ears, and that they are responsible for the safety of everyone around them. It is a difficult way to live, but they have no other choice, and they still find ways to be children, with games and fondness and shadow puppets.

But an attack on the village changes everything. At once Ogma faces danger and responsibility she had not imagined before, along with a wider, more dangerous world than she had ever dreamed of.

The story doesn’t follow a traditional hero’s journey arc, but I think that’s greatly to its benefit. Lehnen has more space this way to build up the world as the characters know it, which is vastly different from our world. It also makes for a greater shift in scope when Ogma is forced to leave the familiar for the unknown, for both she and the readers learn how much more strange and awesome (in the old sense of the word) the world really is.

The one thing keeping me from giving this five stars is the ending. The twist simultaneously felt fascinating and powerful, but also sudden, without enough explanation to make it make sense the more I thought about it. I wish there had been a little more depth to that part of the story, a little more explanation, especially as the rest of the world Lehnen has crafted feels so rich and vibrant.

I hope to read more of Lehnen’s work someday, whether or not any of his other books are set in this particular world. There are no doubt a great many more stories to explore in it, but there are also many other worlds to create, and I have no doubt Lehnen has imagination enough to populate galaxies.


Fog & Fireflies

Ogma's homeland wasn't always like that. A wizard war caused a disruptive fog to cover the entire land. The fog had taken over the villages, and it continued to spread. A wall serves as a boundary to keep the fog away. However, this wall needs to be guarded at all times by children. Unlike adults, who will be attacked by the phantoms the fog creates, the children go unharmed. However, the younger they are, the better it is to be one of the guards. As the seasons go by, the children are rotated. There's Ogma, who acts like a supervisor over the children. As the years go by, she gets older and becomes more vulnerable to the fog.

The children try to have fun in the situation but can't ignore the dangers. Also, it makes funny shapes, often mimicking animals to distract the children from their posts. The villages have adapted to their reality and mostly look forward to fog breaks when they can trade easily, have festivals, and visit other places.

Things go awry when their village is attacked by alien caravanners who can move within the fog, and they aim to kidnap the children. Amid the brouhaha, Ogma gets lost in the fog. How will she protect her friends and reunite with her loved ones? In serious situations where the adults are tense, the children find a way to make light of the situation. This is a reminder of the carefree and playful nature of kids. Some of my favorite characters were Nod and Wheeler. Nod shows traits of a leader, and I consider him daring.

Ogma does a great job of keeping everyone in check and is always on the lookout for her people. She appears strict, but she's a selfless person, putting the safety of her people at the top of her mind. Even when she finds herself in dangerous places, she cares about protecting other people. The main theme of the book is role reversal. We often see scenarios where the adults are the protectors, but in this case, the younger children are the guards since they have stronger resistance to the fog.

The world-building in the book was fantastic. I also loved the idea of introducing a new language to the story. Although I think there were too many characters and the plot seems a bit fast-paced, but overall, it was an engaging novel, and I would recommend it to readers of fantasy fiction.


Fog & Fireflies

Fog & Fireflies by T.H. Lehnen is a must-read for teenagers and adults alike. It is a beautifully crafted story that takes place in a small village surrounded by a deadly fog. The novel follows the life of Ogma, a young teenage girl who becomes the unlikely hero of the village when it comes under attack. The author expertly weaves a dark and mysterious story that keeps readers captivated from start to finish.

The village is surrounded by a mist that is full of mysterious dangers and is deadly to adults. As a result, the children of the village are tasked with the duty to stand guard at the village walls and protect the elders. The children must learn that they can’t trust their gut and that it is critical to stick to only what they have been taught. Not doing so could be fatal. Ogma, the protagonist of the story, is a teenage girl who is forced to step up and take on more responsibility than she ever thought possible when the village comes under attack. As she faces extreme danger and unimaginable challenges, she must rise to the occasion and become the hero the village needs.

The plot of Fog & Fireflies is well written, and the unexpected twists and turns keep the reader on the edge of their seat until the very end. The author's use of descriptive writing creates a vivid image of the ominous setting that transports the reader to another world. This book almost made me feel like I was watching a movie instead of reading. Lehnen expertly blends elements of fantasy and adventure to create a story that is both captivating and thrilling.

One of the things that makes Fog & Fireflies such a great read is the character development. Ogma is a likable character who grows and matures throughout the novel. The author does a fantastic job of placing the reader in the character's shoes, really allowing us to understand Ogma. The other characters in the book are also well-developed and add depth to the story.

Fog & Fireflies is a beautifully crafted and thoroughly entertaining novel that is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers of all ages. Lehnen’s writing style is engaging, and the story is both thrilling and thought-provoking. This book literally left me turning the pages for hours. Whether you are a fan of fantasy, adventure, or just a good story, this book is the one for you. It is a perfect read for anyone who loves a well-written novel with fascinating characters and an engaging plot.


Fog & Fireflies

Fog & Fireflies takes place in a world where the young ones keep the village protected, children are highly valued, and their safety is of great importance. Unfortunately, the children are in danger, as they're being targeted by strange beings in the fog. Ogma, who is fourteen seasons old, is determined to disregard the voices in the fog. Though she searches for another village, she dreads the consequence of finding one and having to leave the village. However, she finds Dunkirk, who doesn't speak their language, in the fog just before the break and ends up saving his life twice. Dunkirk's memory is foggy, but he remembers running from a battle and carrying the curse that staves off the Blue Wizard. Meanwhile, Ogma finds herself separated from her people as she strives to save some from the strange entities hunting them. Fog & Fireflies by T.H. Lehnen engages readers in the dangerous adventures of a relentless protagonist who must save her people and contend with how little she knows about their world as she digs deeper into ancient tales and learns of various powerful beings.

Fog & Fireflies is one of those books that give you a very unique perspective of other forms of reality. From the characters who have never heard of gods to the concept of children protecting the rest of the population, the book offers a brilliant, creative world-building theme that vividly ignites the reader's imagination. Also, the intriguing world is built with several captivating entities including fireflies, gods, demons, wizards, shadows, and more.

I loved the numerous mysterious concepts in the tale, such as the unpredictable nature of the fog and the strange voices. Following Ogma's journey as she discovers more about other beings, their ways, and the past was an experience I wished would never end. She emerges as a mindful and observant character since she makes several thoughtful comments about the world around her.

Lehnen's lyrical English intensifies the magical feel of his splendid fantasy tale. I had to highlight one of my favorite lines, "The warm, flickering glow of firelight played across the wooden logs of the ceiling." Another amazing aspect of the story is the gradual revelation of relevant information about the world and its creatures. The urge to keep discovering more interesting details about the world had me turning the pages swiftly from start to finish.

I strongly recommend Fog & Fireflies to readers who enjoy books that engender evocative, spine-chilling, and wonder-filled imagination. It's an enchanting tale with a lot of mysteries and intricate world-building that is far more exciting than the real world. I really hope there's a sequel to this gem.


The Esmeralda Goodbye

The Esmeralda Goodbye tells the story of a young policeman named Jake Stirling in the mid-1950s, ten years after the bombing of Hiroshima. The story is set in La Jolla, California. Jake's father, a police detective, disappeared several years ago, after being berated for arresting the wrong person in the case of The Creeper, a case that was never solved. Jake's mother had worked hard to support her three children, Jake, Danny, and Lucy. By getting a job as an officer, Jake could help his family out financially. But even after saving famous author Raymond Chandler's life after an attempted suicide, Jake finds himself still on the beat. Something sinister is on tap in the small town of La Jolla, though, and Jake is about to find himself in the middle of it.

One of my favorite things about this book is that it incorporates real-life people as characters in the book. Zsa Zsa Gabor, Nicky Hilton, Lucy and Desi, and Elizabeth Taylor are either named or play a part in this story about a stolen train case that holds a diamond necklace and something else that may be much more valuable than that. The dialogue between the characters felt very real as if I was watching a movie made in the 1950s. Zsa Zsa is expectedly over-the-top and Nicky is hot-tempered.

The story has several small stories embedded within the larger story including that of Jake's younger disturbed brother, Danny, however, the author connects all of these pieces in the end so that the reader can see the importance of each detail.

There is also a love story between Jake and his girlfriend Millie, a waitress at a diner, strewn throughout the story which gives the story a nice hometown feel. Jake is a very likable, do-good character even though he is quite green when it comes to the ways of the world.

The story also features J. Edgar Hoover, who, although he isn't a main character in the book, is a character that drives the plot forward in terms of why the train case must be found.

I have to admit, I've never read any of Raymond Chandler's work, however, I had a feeling the title of this book must have had something to do with the famous author. The author appears only two times in the book, however, I could tell that he was symbolically important in Corey Lynn Fayman's writing. After researching it, I found out that Esmeralda is a city that was modeled after La Jolla in Chandler's work, Playback.

Written with smooth character development and dialogue with the laidback feel of a small suburban town, The Esmeralda Goodbye will have readers fascinated and well-entertained.


The Esmeralda Goodbye

The Esmeralda Goodbye by Corey Lynn Fayman is an exciting, fast-paced mystery novel. Told predominately from the perspective of Officer Jake Stirling, the reader is in for a book full of suspense, robbery, deceit, and much more.

To set the scene, Jake has had a rough couple of years. Two years ago, his father committed suicide. A smart, dedicated, and trustworthy detective, Jake’s father uncovered many secrets in their small town, causing upheaval amongst the upper class and their unspoken, immoral behaviors. The repercussions of his findings brought about so much turmoil, that he unfortunately began to turn to the bottle for solace. Suffering from substance abuse and depression over this event, he eventually walked into the ocean and never returned.

With his father gone, Jake has felt the weight and responsibility of being the “man” of the household, trying to keep his family intact. With his younger brother Danny constantly in trouble and quite literally obsessed with breaking the rules, this is no small task. Handling this amongst his career, relationships, and grief, Jake has a lot on his plate.

And he’s in for a lot more when Jake receives a call about a stolen train case. Movie Star Zsa Zsa Gabor has reported a theft of this bag, which contained a very valued diamond necklace. A gift from a former pursuer, she believes he may have attempted to steal it back from her. However, not everything seems to add up with this story. Her current companion, Artie, is very angry with her for losing the train case, but not the necklace.

Why would he be so upset over a bag versus $10,000 in jewels? How did the thief know where their room was in the hotel? How did he or she steal it without leaving a trace? With many questions and few clues, Jake is in for a surprise when he begins to unravel the very complicated, very elaborate mystery before him.

After reading this novel, I have to say that Fayman has a clear talent for writing. This story had a lot of moving parts, yet he managed to tie them up neatly into a bow at the end. Ending on a  cliffhanger, I am interested to see what happens next and where these characters end up. A sinister mystery, Cayman does dive deeply into topics readers may find uncomfortable such as discussion of soliciting minors, moral indecency, and prostitution.

Personally, I don’t enjoy reading about these subject matters yet, I still have to say the book was very well done. If you are an adult, male reader who enjoys mystery, crime, and lots of action, this book is for you!


We Found a Seed (In the Garden)

We Found a Seed is such a cute book about one of the happiest times of year. When two kids find a seed, they don't know why it won't grow in a box. Eventually, they figure out they need to plant it and water it for it to grow. The seed then turns into a flower, but the kids are sad when it dies. However, the kids are thrilled when they realize the plant has left them something behind.

This is a really cute little book for younger readers to learn about the plant lifecycle and what plants need to grow. I really liked the colorful pictures in this book. I like how the pictures helped to show how the plant is changing through the seasons.


Squirrels! This is Not a Book about Dinosaurs

Melina Schoenborn, Felipe Arriagada-Nunez, Jeffrey K Butt

Squirrel is here to tell readers all about his favorite topic: squirrels! He has a whole book that is just about squirrels. Until, that is, a dinosaur wanders into Squirrel’s book and tries to hijack the story. The dinosaur is convinced (and quite convincing) that kids are simply much more interested in dinosaurs because, he says, squirrels are boring.

But Squirrel holds his ground and starts passing along some great information like that there are two hundred and sixty two species of squirrels on Earth and that they come in many different colors: gray, black, red, and even striped. But the dinosaur keeps interrupting. He still seems to think squirrels are boring. Can Squirrel get control of his book back from this annoying dinosaur?

Author Melina Schoenborn has a great sense of humor and a child-like voice. This book is just plain silly, and kids love silly. With this one, they learn some fun facts along with the silly. Wonderful cartoon-like illustrations in bright colors pepper every page and support every bit of the story. This delightful book will give kids lots of giggles and teach them some things at the same time. It’s a real winner.


What Happened to Nina?: A Thriller

Leanne Fraser is the proprietor of an inn in rural Vermont. She is married to husband Andy and has two daughters, Nina and Grace. Leanne worked hard to get where she is in life and expects her daughters to toe a similar path. Lately, this has led to friction between her and Nina. Nina is attending college while working at the inn. Nina is in a relationship with Simon Jordan, a young man whom she has known since childhood. Her desire to have a social life is frustrated by Leanne’s reliance on her.

Leanne and Andy are concerned when Nina is late arriving from a hiking trip she took with Simon. Concern evolves into alarm as days pass with no word from Nina. Within a week, the whereabouts of Nina have bloomed into a media spectacle and suspicion flows in various directions both inward and outward.

What Happened to Nina? is the latest mesmerizing mystery from the mind of author Dervla McTiernan (The Good Turn). McTiernan’s incisive examination of the internet and the true crime phenomena add layers of brilliance. McTiernan delivers a story with real-life similarities and packs it with compelling characters and a rewarding payoff.


This is NOT a Dinosaur!

One of the beautiful features of children’s picture books is that they can be delightfully nonsensical and simply relish in the pure joy of language. This Is NOT A Dinosaur! is just such a book. Here, a young boy journeys along with a giant, green character you might very easily mistake for a dinosaur but instead is any number of other things: a “shine-osaur” when brushing teeth, a “supersonic-kick-osaur” when playing soccer,  a “leap-osaur” when raking leaves, a “sleep-osaur” when napping, and a “helpful-with your-hair-osaur” when getting a very cool haircut, among many other iterations. Last and possibly best of all, this creature is “’You’re mine-osaur’” when giving a huge hug.

Barry Timms has written a wonderful, silly book that takes children on a funny, imaginative journey that will keep them wanting to turn pages to see what craziness comes next. Ged Adamson’s illustrations provide the perfect complement with their bright colors and humorous interpretation of the text. Best of all, this book provides the perfect excuse for giving all the little kid-osaurs enormous hugs.


Caroline Stevan, Francois Vigneault, Jeffrey K Butt

Extraordinary Eyeglasses: The Amazing Invention That Helps Us See includes a lot of facts about eyeglasses (how they work, how they’re made, why we need them) and about our eyes in general (what they look like to a doctor, what near and far-sightedness mean). There are many facts, but in between them are fun activities that are eye/vision-related (maze, dot-to-dot, braille code, etc.) and a short story about a girl with “special” spectacles.

The illustrations help to understand what's happening, but this book is also good for all readers because there's always something to learn at every age!

I don’t have to wear glasses yet, but because there are others in my family who do, I wonder about it; now I feel more informed when/if my time comes for some extra help. I like how this book makes learning fun and easy and it thinks of kids by including the extra activities to use different parts of our brains and not tire them out.


Empire of Shadows

Ellie has been fired from her job for one tiny arrest during a protest and now has nothing to look forward to besides her stepmother's insistent search for a husband for her. Well, that is until she accidentally steals a map and necklace from her former boss's desk. With a man willing to do anything to get them back on her tail, Ellie flees across the ocean to the wild jungles where she's not prepared for what awaits her. Or the raged man who turns out to be her only hope to finding where the map leads.

Archeology, magical artifacts, a lost city, and oh my, there's only one bed, all wrapped up into one fabulous novel? Yes, please.

The characters are a bit Mary Sue at times and Ellie and Adam's romance got a bit annoying with how they drool over each other, but overall, the plot, the characters, and the romance are well crafted and highly enjoyable to read about. Ellie is skeptical of magic, believing that there’s a logical explanation and the magic and her changing her mind is shaped over the course of the story.


The Swan's Nest: A Novel

The romance between Elizabeth Barrett and Robert Browning is a beautiful one. How can love between two poets be anything else? They wrote to one another, referenced one another in poems, and found a way to secretly marry against the wishes of Elizabeth’s family and despite her chronic illness.The Swan’s Nest is as beautiful as a novel about two poets deserves to be. It is rich and melancholy, with several exquisite sensory details that linger in the mind.

It is also difficult to get into. The short chapters make it difficult for readers – especially those with only a passing familiarity with either of the poets – to gain a foothold in the story. Aside from the sensory details I mentioned above, there is little actual description, leaving readers to guess what the characters and the world they pass through look like. We are given frequent looks into those characters’ minds, but those are more often thoughts than feelings, contributing to the distant and melancholy feeling of the text.

The Swan’s Nest is beautiful, but I found it difficult to enjoy. It will appeal to those who love the poetry of Barrett and Browning far more than to more casual readers of historical fiction.


The Diary of a Sugarbaby

"The Diary of a Sugarbaby is an eye-opening dystopian novel told from the point of view of a young adult named Dime who lives as a gay, non-binary sugar baby turned sex slave. When a Bill gets passed and young people become slaves to the Elders, they must endure such violent acts as public and private rape sessions, branding, torture, and death. With themes of LGBTQ+ hate, racism, government control, and the banning of all creative materials, The Diary of a Sugarbaby is The Handmaid's Tale on steroids. Captivating and graphic, this book is not for the faint of heart." —Kristi Elizabeth,  Manhattan Book Review


In the Garden Behind the Moon: A Memoir of Loss, Myth, and Magic

Beauty and magic are interspersed in the winding journey of healing from grief, despair, and loss. Painter, photographer, and archaeologist Alexandra A. Chan shares her path to reconnecting to family stories and ancestral myths of the “Old Chan Magic” after she lost her beloved father, Robert Chan. After losing her parents, Chan contends with grief through shamanic journeying, meditation, journaling, traveling, and taking up different hobbies. Amid surrendering to the pull of self-discovery, she managed to maintain her career, nurtured her marriage, and mothered two young sons.

The memoir starts with telling the lore around T’ai Peng, the first Chan to leave China to make a life in the United States. Operating a laundromat in Savannah, Georgia, the Chans homeschooled their children, who were not allowed to attend public school in the Jim Crow South. With ancestors guiding her path, the author pieces together the Chan family story from letters, photographs, memories, and other archives of lives well lived. History and magic blend to create an unforgettable tapestry of interwoven, inter-generational stories of persistence and flourishing.

Chan integrates magical realism into a most unforgettable memoir. The author organizes the narrative along significant years of self-discovery anchored in the Chinese zodiac. She writes eloquently about her journey toward gaining a deeper understanding of incorporating myth and wonder in daily life, always delivered in a respectful tone. The author shares her research on the psychology of mythmaking and storytelling from Western thinkers Joseph Campbell, Stephen Larsen, and John O’Donohue.

As an Asian-American immigrant, I fully appreciated learning about the remarkable accomplishments of Robert Earl Chan and his siblings as they overcame the confines of racism in the segregated South. While magic features prominently at the beginning of the book, the succeeding narratives about Robert Earl Chan’s life and career in the army and industry were more straightforward. Chan’s father was an engineer, an inventor, and a community leader. As a Chinese American man, he bucked tradition by marrying a White woman despite anti-miscegenation laws.

Grief can be overwhelming, and this memoir is unlike any I have read. The author writes convincingly about the heartfelt revelations about losing her father, a larger-than-life character father whose bright light never diminished. Chan accompanies the revelatory narrative with family photographs and her artwork as she ponders the contemplative nature of photography and brush painting. Connecting to deeper truths, one finds a way out of the wasteland by harnessing magic, love, and wonder.


The Mole People

The Mole People by Kevin Landt was an intense read. The novel is told from the perspective of Suzie Franks, a college student suffering from schizophrenia. Constantly bombarded by voices in her head, Suzie never truly can decipher reality from her illness. Plaguing her relationships, social life, and schooling, she struggles with any sort of concentration, as hallucinations constantly speak to her and make fun of her throughout her day-to-day life. To put the cherry on top, she is also consistently bullied for being different due to her illness, her small size, and for being a “freak.” All in all, Suzie does not have happy days, causing her to commit self-harm and have an intense loathing of herself and her body.

Then, Suzie meets Robbie. Gorgeous and popular, Robbie is everything that Suzie is not. Yet, he loves her. With Robbie’s support and encouragement, Suzie finally begins to get the medication she desperately needs and has improvement in her grades and confidence. There seems to be a light at the end of the tunnel for her. With Robbie at her side and her best friend Andrea, Suzie begins to experience a life where she actually feels it may be worth living for.

That is, until she starts taking drugs. A sharp turn in events, everything seems to be going right… until it's not. A downward spiral from this point forward, the story follows Suzie’s journey of fighting her inner demons and struggling to stay alive.

All in all, I have to say The Mole People was exceptionally well-written. Landt has a way with words that kept me on the edge of my seat and invested in Suzie’s future. He did a fantastic job of taking a hard topic such as schizophrenia and discussing it in a way that a general reader may be able to comprehend. He shone light on what these individuals suffer with, and how excruciating it is for everyone involved when someone suffers from hallucinations and visions.

However, I would strongly encourage Landt to include a trigger warning for this novel. Discussing many dark topic,s including suicide, self-harm, eating disorders, human trafficking, and sexual assault, it is essential. Although I would not classify this novel as a mystery or thriller per its assignment, if you are a reader who likes general fiction about mental illness and heavier topics, this read may be for you. Admittedly, the plot was a little darker than I would normally go for; however, I still think Landt did a great job and would encourage readers who like this genre to indulge in it!


The Mole People

Suzie has struggled most of her life with hallucinations and hearing voices. Often the voices are convincing her to hurt herself or others. When she’s twenty, she’s diagnosed with schizophrenia. At first, the diagnosis seems to be a good thing, but Suzie distrusts her doctors and loved ones who want her to take medication to alleviate her symptoms. She turns to alcohol and drugs to quiet the voices instead, which in turn leads to a downward spiral, causing her to ditch college and run away.

Suzie eventually finds herself on the streets of Las Vegas, where she is taken in by Wonderman, the leader of the Mole People, who live in the flood tunnels underneath the city. The mole people all have their own stories of how they came to be underground. People like Judy, who was once a Grammy-nominated singer, but found herself addicted to drugs when Wonderman found her.

Suzie finds out quickly that there is a price to pay for his kindness and she’ll have to decide for herself if she’s willing to pay or if she can trust those who love her, the ones who have never given up on her.

This story is horrible, and I mean that in a very good way. It is a well-written story, with characters that will break your heart. The horrible part is that while this story is fiction, the struggles portrayed here of those with schizophrenia and drug addiction are entirely too real. It was hard to read this story, knowing people are really suffering. The things that the Mole People have to endure from each other, as well as being homeless, hungry and often drug addicted is tragic.

While I can’t speak from personal experience, it seemed like the author did a wonderful job portraying the thought life of someone with schizophrenia. I also thought he did a great job of describing what it’s like to love someone with that disorder. You can’t help feeling like you are going through both sides with the characters. If you enjoy emotional stories, full of interesting characters or are interested in the mental health field from the perspective of the patients and their families, then this story is for you.

Be aware there are many triggers in this book, such as self-harm and sexual abuse, which shouldn’t be surprising considering the content of the story. Overall, I recommend this book and the hope it gives that we can help others who are suffering from mental health issues, homelessness and drug addiction.


Grumpy Monkey Spring Fever

Jim Panzee has a highly relatable problem. He wakes up one day feeling completely silly and takes off running and laughing through the jungle. When his friend Norman suggests Jim has spring fever, Jim rushes off to find a cure. Jim’s friend Water Buffalo informs Jim that he isn’t really sick: Jim just has a lot of energy because it’s spring and he needs to calm down. Then all of Jim’s friends start suggesting ways to calm down, but Jim just explodes angrily with energy.

Jim’s friends back away until Norman suggests that having a lot of energy isn’t bad: Jim just needs to do spring things like hide eggs, plant flowers and climb a tree. After doing all of these things, Jim yells happily that he doesn’t care who knows he has spring fever. With that, all of his friends catch his fever and start doing spring things, too.

So many times, young children are told to sit still and behave. Here, however, their irrepressible energy is seen as a positive if it’s channeled a good way. With spring rapidly approaching, maybe even a few lucky adults with catch their charges’ spring fever and join in the fun as well.


The Dark Fable

Evie Wilder can turn invisible. This is not something she was born with but grew out of childhood trauma that left her an orphan. She uses this power to lift wallets to help her survive, but when La Fable Sombre notices her at a museum event, her life becomes entangled in their schemes to steal magical objects. Invisibility is one ability they don’t have, so they welcome her in with open arms.

This family they’ve created attracts Evie, but the possibility of learning the truth of her past is what makes her commit. When one of their schemes goes awry and they are captured, she becomes cautious and hesitant. It takes all of their abilities to escape unscathed. How can she help with their next big heist if she can’t implicitly trust them?

This dark tale is a mash-up of Renegades, I Am the Weapon, and Six of Crows, but with detailed descriptions, multiple characters, plus a little French. The world-building is lengthy, but those who stick with it will enjoy the final twists and turns and the truth about Evie’s past. A teaser ending hints at a sequel, but readers will be satisfied with Evie’s conclusion.


Practicing Liberation: Transformative Strategies for Collective Healing & Systems Change: Reflections on burnout, trauma & building communities of care in social justice work

Tessa Hicks Peterson, Hala Khouri, Kazu Haga

Working toward systems change to realize social justice requires a deep personal commitment and resolve toward community healing and well-being. Practicing Liberation is an anthology of essays penned by changemakers, advocates, educators, healers, activists, and leaders who challenge their peers to evaluate their practices.

Editors Tessa Hicks Peterson and Hala Khouri curated essays that share approaches to confronting and transforming systems of harm. The book starts with a discussion of a transformative framework that prioritizes self-renewal, developing communities of support, and centering healing practices. Reflective questions guide readers to assess their experiences and observations about the internal culture of their organizations.

Social change is only possible when institutions change from within. As a diversity, equity, and inclusion practitioner, I was drawn to the book because I was familiar with the editors’ work in justice movements. It is a timely read for fellow practitioners who are facing resistance and burnout and allies who are feeling the mental and emotional toll of perpetuating white supremacy in their day-to-day work.

The interdisciplinary collection of diverse voices did not disappoint. The book highlights the authors' lived experiences of recognizing privilege, addressing racism and classism, unlearning harmful behaviors, and embodying community thriving. Writers draw from personal, professional, and spiritual practices to model a radical vision of building a beloved community anchored in anti-oppression.


Nein, Nein, Nein!: One Man's Tale of Depression, Psychic Torment, and a Bus Tour of the Holocaust

In 2016, Jerry Stahl was at a transitional moment in his life. He was working on a pitch for a TV series based on his second chance at fatherhood in his sixties. However, his marriage was on the rocks and depression clung to him as if it were Velcro. He decided to take a trip to Europe where he would partake in a guided tour through Poland and Germany exploring the horrors of the Holocaust.

While walking a perpetual tightrope in not alienating his fellow travelers, Stahl saw the grim reminders of a not-so-distant past where millions met hell on earth upon entrance at Auschwitz, Dachau, and other places of infamy. The tour would only last a limited number of days, but the solemn memories hit hard with Stahl and have remained with him in the succeeding years.

Nein, Nein, Nein is the latest release from the stellar pen of author Jerry Stahl (Permanent Midnight). Stahl’s storytelling is capable of sending the reader into paroxysms of laughter right before hitting you with a poignancy that wounds your soul. Stahl’s genius is in counterbalancing the surreal with the heartfelt, the absurd with the dark humor.


Sunbringer

Sunbringer by Hannah Kaner
Return to the enchanting world of Godkiller in this thrilling sequel to the internationally bestselling fantasy debut. Join professional godkiller Kissen and her companions, the young noble Inara and the knight Elogast, on a winding adventure through lands filled with gods and demons. As they delve deeper into the mysteries of their world, they encounter magic, beauty, and danger at every turn. From noble halls to treacherous landscapes, their journey is fraught with peril, testing their resolve and strengthening their bonds. With twists and turns aplenty, this gripping sequel promises an unforgettable exploration of courage, friendship, and destiny.

The Emperor and the Endless Palace by Justinian Huang
"The Emperor and the Endless Palace" weaves together the lives of two men across disparate timelines, from ancient palaces to present-day Los Angeles. Bound by an undying love, they face challenges ranging from political intrigue to supernatural terror. As they are reborn lifetime after lifetime, their connection persists, defying the constraints of time. This genre-bending romantasy debut challenges conventional notions of love, offering a thrilling roller coaster ride of twists and turns. Prepare to be swept away by a tale that transcends boundaries and explores the power of love in all its forms.

House of Open Wounds by Adrian Tchaikovsky
In a world consumed by the pursuit of Perfection and Correctness, the Palleseen wage war city-by-city and kingdom-by-kingdom. Amidst the chaos, Yasnic, a former priest turned healer, finds himself in an unconventional medical unit led by 'the Butcher'. Tasked with saving lives deemed beyond hope, they employ forbidden methods, including unapproved magic and illicit Gods. But as enemies close in, their existence becomes increasingly precarious, threatened by discovery and dissolution. In this gripping tale of survival amidst horror, the unlikely band of healers must navigate treacherous waters, where even a hint of a miracle could spell their undoing.

The Mars House by Natasha Pulley
In this gripping sci-fi novel by the author of The Watchmaker of Filigree Street, January, a former ballet principal turned refugee on Mars, faces discrimination as an Earthstronger. When xenophobic politician Aubrey Gale proposes a fake marriage to save their reputations and planet, January reluctantly agrees. But as their relationship deepens, January uncovers Gale's hidden agendas and becomes entangled in dangerous political schemes. Now, January must navigate a treacherous landscape to protect Tharsis from a destructive enemy, even if it means sacrificing everything. Get ready for a thrilling tale of love, survival, and intrigue set against the backdrop of a terraformed colony on Mars.

Empire of the Damned by Jay Kristoff
From the bestselling author of the Nevernight Chronicle comes the eagerly awaited sequel to the international hit, "Empire of the Vampire." Gabriel de León, having saved the Holy Grail, now seeks to end the eternal night shrouding the world. Teaming up with a mysterious vampire, Gabriel must navigate perilous terrain, facing enemies both external and internal. Pursued by terrifying foes and haunted by his own bloodlust, he embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind the Grail's power. But as secrets unravel, Gabriel confronts a reality more chilling than he ever imagined. Prepare for a thrilling tale of sacrifice and revelation.


Unstuck

Lyla is a writer. She’s always known that. She has a whole fantasy novel in her head, one with witches and magical beings, in a strange world with a dangerous quagmire and a one-toed beast, so when her seventh-grade ELA teacher announces they will be working on creative writing, Lyla is thrilled. Now she will finally get her novel on paper. Maybe it will even be a series!

But writing is different from imagining, and Lyla is stuck. She tries lots of things her teacher suggests to get unstuck, but to no avail. And she finds she is trying to impress certain people rather than just writing. And there is the pressure of a contest coming up as well as family drama and friend drama. It’s a lot.

Barbara Dee has written a compelling story many middle graders will relate to, especially those with older, successful siblings or those going through friend problems. The situations are quite realistic and the dialogue and characters are all believable. But it is hard to keep rooting for a main character in a rather long book who is often not very likable, and Lyla is that. Still, many readers will like this one.


The Dallergut Dream Department Store: A Novel: The #1 Korean Bestseller with Over a Million Copies Sold

The Dallergut Dream Department Store isn’t just a place, it’s a state of mind. Tucked away between the folds of our subconscious, somewhere between waking and sleep, lies a little town full of sleepy people. No, really, everyone walking the streets in their pajamas (or temporarily in the nude), every soft-footed family pet, and every wild animal wandering down the boulevard is someone fast asleep in their own reality.

They come from the waking world in search of dreams. Dreams of their past and dreams of what they hope will come to pass; they even sometimes seek out dreams from loved ones lost to death. Twenty-four hours a day, they wander into the town’s most beloved and well-stocked dream emporium, and that’s where Penny has set her sights to kick off her career as a dream-seller.

Full of beautiful imagery and unforgettable characters, this novel is brimming over with whimsy and heartfelt emotion in equal measures. Penny’s fresh viewpoint is the perfect palette for the reader to explore the zany world of celebrity dream-makers; and coupled with the poignant depictions of the effect their dreams have on their dreamers makes for the perfect blend of magical realism and hopeful fantasy.


Double Lives (A Lexington, Alabama Novel)

Fiona and Leona Dunbar are not the first fictional twins to switch places when it’s convenient for them, but Monroe makes sure not to let this feel like a tired trope. She not only tells a lively story but also puts a twist on the typical “good twin, bad twin” dynamic. Fiona, publicly the good twin, causes trouble just as much as Leona does (if not more), but Leona is always the one to take the fall for her. When Fiona wishes to escape a loveless marriage, ever-loyal Leona willingly takes her place.

The last thing she expects is to fall in love with her sister’s husband.

Double Lives is the latest in Monroe’s series about Black women in Depression-era Alabama, but each book can stand on its own. As the book covers the twins’ lives from their early years, it takes a while to get to the meat of the matter, and some of the early chapters cover similar ground multiple times. Once the twins reach their teenage years, however, things start to spice up, especially when Fiona’s true nature shines through a little more. This was a fun book, and I expect many people will enjoy it.


Drawn from Life

“Still unable to recall all of the details of that horrible night, Emma finds herself at a crossroads when her long-lost cousin shows up on her doorstep. Set in the beautiful backdrop of North Carolina farmland, Drawn from Life slowly unravels a mystery that happened eight years ago. Brilliantly written with strong, imperfect characters, Emma’s story will have readers taking in all of the small details from cover to cover. With themes of family, betrayal, narcissism, and hope, readers will experience a myriad of emotions while reading Drawn from Life.” —Kristi Elizabeth, Manhattan Book Review


The Spanish Sacrifice: A Historical Political Saga (ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF WAR)

Jay Perin’s globetrotting and truly epic One Hundred Years of War series nears its conclusion in The Spanish Sacrifice, the first in an explosive two-part finale to a saga that has so far spanned the tumultuous period from the early 1970s through to the start of the 2000s. During this thirty-year timeframe, as the Kingsleys, the Sheppards, and the Barronses struggled to gain and maintain control of an oil empire with sufficient influence to alter the course of global events, individual members of the three families have faced sinister political machinations, economic skullduggery on a huge scale, and brutal violence, sometimes with deadly consequences.

It’s now July 2000, some two and a half years after Lilah Sheppard Barrons, her former husband Brad Kingsley, and his brothers returned from a fraught decade-long exile abroad after falling victim to a politically motivated conspiracy, and former President Temple is attending a funeral in Brooklyn, New York. The deceased is not named, but it’s clear that the death has had a major impact on Temple. It’s equally clear that his hubris might have finally dissipated somewhat, even if only due to the physical consequences of the assassination attempt he survived, and that he might have come to regret using younger members of the three families as pawns in his deadly game with Jared Sanders and his successors.

The story then jumps back two years into the past, to late March of 1998, when Lilah and co. have only recently arrived back home. Through the skillful maneuvering of Harry Sheppard, Lilah’s former love and current protector, and Dan Barrons, Lilah’s twin brother, she has managed to wrestle back some control over the bloated oil empire. This means that, in addition to playing the CIA at their own game, she has another opportunity to dismantle the network from the inside, even if she has to do so while somehow maintaining cordial relations with her ex-husband. As political turmoil rages around the world, threatening to drag the United States into unwanted conflicts, it’s really not a good time for an oil crisis.

Of course, there are several major players with a vested interest in ensuring that Lilah’s plan fails, particularly Godwin Kingsley and his government/military cronies, which sets the scene for two years’ worth of blackmail, backstabbing, and bloody violence leading up to the fateful funeral.

There is a lot going on in The Spanish Sacrifice, but not as much as has happened in the preceding five books, so it’s not the place to start with the One Hundred Years of War series. It is, however, a great start to what promises to be a nail-biting conclusion to the saga. As is to be expected, Lilah, Harry, and their allies face lies and double-crosses at almost every turn as they attempt to gain sufficient control of the oil empire to finally demolish the network, all while keeping both their personal lives and their dealings with various government agencies in some kind of order. It involves a great deal of complex maneuvering, but Perin manages to draw the different threads together in a way that either provides answers or offers the promise of answers to come.

All of the familiar characters—that is, those who have managed to survive the deadly chess game thus far—have a role to play in bringing matters to a close in em>The Spanish Sacrifice and, presumably, the forthcoming final book in the series. In particular, Temple seems to demonstrate the most growth as a character, even though his ability to communicate is now limited and his willingness to engage in violence is still evident. Looking back from the vantage point of age, he seems to both regret what he has brought about and desire to help move things towards the ultimate end. Given Temple’s distaste for all the alliances and conspiracies, it is also interesting to watch members of the younger generation come through the three families during the novel and almost inevitably take their place in the ongoing drama.

Saying that, while there’s still plenty of action and intrigue, there are slower moments in The Spanish Sacrifice than in other books in the series, particularly the board meetings, legal conferences, and lengthy congressional hearing. As Lilah and Harry seek to secure power, and as others aim to consolidate their positions, there is much discussion and debate. Moreover, this installment of the saga predominantly takes place in the United States, which is another marked difference from the far more well-traveled earlier books. The lack of travel and diverse settings doesn’t limit the flow of the story, but it does remove an added layer of interest that has become accustomed in the series.

The Spanish Sacrifice makes for an intriguing and suspenseful beginning of the end for the One Hundred Years of War series, delivering plenty of schemes and plots but also revealing the answers to some long-running questions. It’s clear that there is plenty more in store for Lilah, Harry, Temple, and all the rest before things are finally wrapped up, so hopefully there won’t be too much of a wait before The Capitol Showdown is released.


EDEN

When a ten-year-old child witnesses her father’s murder, no one will believe her. Not even her own mother, who sends her out on the street. So in walks Eden into Rowen’s life. Reluctantly, eighteen-year-old Rowen takes her in, even though he is already struggling to care for himself and his feeble mother. Unsure of everything, he gives up college to work at a construction company. Little does he know that the year Eden spent with him may have been the best one of his life. Because when he sees her years later, all grown up, he can’t stop himself from caring.

This book might be named Eden, but it’s about Rowen. It’s a journey through his life. It’s about a man who messes up nearly everything that God has given him, how he receives love when he doesn’t deserve it. And it’s about how he only becomes a man well after the age of eighteen. You’ll discover that Rowen is constantly forced into situations he doesn’t want to be in. He wavers in instances where he needs to step up. He just can’t summon the courage, even if he wants to. After he turns eighteen, he simply accepts every situation that comes his way, never attempting to change his fate. But in the end, while he can’t completely right the mess he has made of his life, Rowen finds a way to redeem it the best he can—by finally listening to his heart.

There isn’t anything predictable about this story, which makes it a pleasant reading experience. Rowen’s future cannot be seen, nor can Eden’s. Jamie Lisa Forbes is also an author who doesn’t forget any of her characters. She gives all of them some sort of significance, bringing them back in at times when you don’t expect it. And few elements of the story are fair or right, but that’s life. And it seems like it was Forbes’ intent to make this story almost as lifelike as possible, which she pulled off, indeed.

Overall, this is an interesting, well-written southern story that starts out in 1950s North Carolina. Given the time period and place, it does incorporate a theme of racial prejudice. Essentially, it is an excellent historical fiction piece with appropriate details, names, and lingo. It’s one of those rare books that sinks into your head for days as you continue to contemplate the characters’ choices long after you’ve turned the last page.


EDEN

Rowen was born into a well-to-do home and had quite a peaceful childhood. However, everything changed when his father died. It was discovered that he committed suicide, and there were speculations about him being in debt, which was overwhelming for him. As the only child, he only had his mother and their help, Adeline, by his side. After his father's death, his mother's health started failing, and they now had to depend on their uncle for financial support. Rowen's plans to go to university were thwarted when his uncle claimed they were in debt and couldn't afford it. Rowen had to become the man of the house as a teenager, and it was challenging for him.

On the other hand, there is Eden. A ten-year-old who is the only witness in a suspected murder case. The girl claimed her father was shot by her uncle intentionally. But can a little girl's testimony make much difference in the trial? Eden was considered an orphan, as her mother didn't care about her at all. She eventually moved into Rowen's home. Rowen wasn't happy that his mom had taken the girl in. They soon became rivals and engaged in multiple bouts of banter. Eden seems to be wiser than her age, daring, and carefree, and Rowen just doesn't understand her. The book follows Rowen as he navigates his teenage years, his future, his relationship, and other revelations.

When I started reading the first pages, I knew I was in for an adventurous ride. First, I liked how the author builds suspense. Also, the writing style is engaging and sometimes witty. The characters were well-developed, each having distinct traits that made them more endearing. Eden turned out to be my favorite. The girl is very courageous and quite a rebel. The story was captivating from start to finish, and I noticed the plot was a bit fast-paced. I liked how difficult it is to predict the events in the book; it made it even more interesting.

The novel boasts themes of friendship, family, romance, racism, injustice, and betrayal, among others. Although Adeline was a valuable addition to Rowen’s family, she wasn't very well accepted by others because she was Black. There were other instances of racial discrimination, and I know the book is teaching a lesson on racism. Also, the book shows how the human mind is capable of doing evil for selfish reasons. Although families are supposed to have each other's backs, there are often betrayals. Eden by Jamie Lisa Forbes is an amazing novel, and I would highly recommend it to readers of young adult fiction novels.


Sunny Gale

Hannah Brandt didn’t care for the life she had in her teenage years, having recently relocated to Nebraska and living with her mother and stepfather. Life on the farm was often harsh and her stepfather made her feel inferior on a daily basis. The appearance of a wild horse on the family property sparks something inside Hannah. She wants to get close to the horse and ride it, but this hope is tragically dashed when her stepfather callously kills the horse as an “act of mercy.”

Hannah wants to learn to ride a horse but believes her parents will never allow it. Her fortunes begin to change when she first meets cowboy Luke Mangum. Luke offers to teach Hannah how to ride and her parents acquiesce. There is an attraction between Luke and Hannah, despite a few year’s difference in age. The pair eventually marry and Luke gives Hannah a horse of her own to ride. The freedom Hannah feels while riding is invigorating.

 However, Hannah is restless and craves more in life. She attends a bronc riding competition and tells Luke that she wants to compete. To Luke’s surprise, Hannah wins the competition. When asked her name, Hannah has now become Sunny Gale. This transformation leads to a rift between Sunny and her mother as well as Sunny and Luke. Gradually, Sunny Gale has become an established name in the Bronc riding circuit, competing in various competitions and performing well. Nevertheless, Bronc riding is dangerous and Sunny will experience this early and often during her career.

Years have passed and glory has faded when Sunny Gale begins. Fond memories are coupled with lingering regrets as Sunny reflects on her life in this laudable tale about a female pioneer. The transition of Hannah Brandt into Sunny Gale is a key component of the well-structured plot. Hannah feels confined in living with her parents, the farm life is often too dreary to contemplate. Horseback riding is not just transportation so much as an escape. When Hannah marries Luke, she does not want to confine herself and be subservient to Luke. Bronc riding and the possibility of becoming known appeal to Hannah, even though it may end her marriage to Luke. Hannah(Sunny) is an extremely interesting character as she lives by her own rules and aspires to be the best. Yet her desire to push herself to the limit comes at the cost of more than a few relationships. Sunny Gale is a story about a woman who bucked social conventions, asserted her independence, and sacrificed much to satisfy her dreams. Author Jamie Lisa Forbes has written a truly engaging novel.


Sunny Gale

Hannah’s life-long tale starts out when she’s a young teen, just having moved to a ranch in Wyoming in the late 1890s. At the ranch, she develops a new interest in horses, which is sparked by a wild filly that roams near her home. The interest grows, and eventually she talks a boy into teaching her how to ride. She becomes a cowgirl against her mother’s wishes and starts doing rodeos, debuting as “Sunny Gale,” riding broncos and doing other performances. She loves the adrenaline rush that comes with being on a horse, and she can’t imagine life without it. Over and over again, she proves that, when given the choice to follow a womanly calling or keep up the rodeo life, she’ll choose the latter. The thrill, fame, and glory of being a rodeo girl is a life that’s hard to give up.

This is a wonderful fictional peek into the life of a rodeo woman. It is a rare piece of work, and one that you’re not likely to find a similarity to, as there are few books, fiction or non-fiction, that talk about women in the early rodeo world. Author Jamie Lisa Forbes also highlights Wyoming in the work. It is one of the least populated states in America, overshadowed by its gloried counterparts. But Forbes shows that it’s an interesting state with its own equally fascinating history.

Hannah is not a particularly likeable protagonist, but she is a realistic one. Her tale is one of grit and determination. She makes questionable choices many times, and in many respects, she has a very hard life. She risks her life in the ring, suffering the odd riding injury, and numerous times she is taken advantage of by wicked men. The choices she has to make are never easy, but she sees things in black and white. While her decisions sometimes seem selfish, it’s evident that Hannah believes that being a rodeo girl is who she is and that if she gives up that life, she might as well be nothing. But her life impacts a lot of others, and she doesn’t always see that.

Though some of Hannah's issues are specific to her time period, her saga serves as a poignant, timeless reminder of the complexities that lie beneath the surface of seemingly glamorous pursuits. Those who have an interest in historical fiction and historic women’s rights will find this book enlightening. It’s an eye-opening read and an evocative mixture of fact and fiction.


WHO LEFT GOD PLAYING WITH MUD?!

The king, Sargon, was ruthless. He claimed the throne forcefully, and immediately the past ruler was at a disadvantage. He soon got rid of people who opposed him. Despite his hardness, his soft spot was his daughter, whom he loved so much. The story starts with a jester entertaining the king with a story quite similar to the Biblical creation story. Things escalated pretty quickly, and the king ordered one of his men to choose who to kill between the jester and a priest. Sargon is consumed with the power he has, which could ultimately lead to his downfall.

On the other hand, there's Aunt Tammara and Amare. Tammara had lost her only child, and Amare lost both parents in a mishap. Now that the two were together, Tamarra loved her niece and wanted the best for her. However, the aunt was superstitious, and Amare was not. The story continues with Amare falling in love with a charioteer named Ashur, but their love story is far from perfect.

Then there's a man named Ibrahem who works as a sculptor in the ancient city of Uruk. The story takes place after Ibrahem narrowly escapes execution by the palace guard, Naplanam. He dislikes the hypocrisy of the priests and avoids them whenever possible. Throughout the book, there are lots of evil priests who pretend to perform miracles. Also, there are quite a number of gods, and most are being ridiculed by humans.

With over six hundred pages, it takes a lot of patience to be able to read this book. I didn't understand what the essence of the story was, as there were too many things going on, so I just got lost. There were multiple storylines and a plethora of characters, so it was hard to guess how they related. Also, the lines between past and present events were blurred, which made reading the book less enjoyable. I noticed that the men in the book had misogynist attitudes and didn't regard women with that much respect. Additionally, they had a lot of superstitious beliefs in different gods, and in some parts, they talked about carrying out sacrifices. The author incorporated some Biblical stories, like that of the creation and Moses, into the story, but I don't get what the purpose was for.

However, the book is filled with drama, humor, action, religion, and history. Despite the flaws with characterization and plot, I found a few characters that I liked and actually enjoyed reading some parts of the story. Who Left God Playing with Mud by Namir Naoum is quite an interesting book, and I recommend it to readers of historical fiction.


WHO LEFT GOD PLAYING WITH MUD?!

The story begins with what some consider one of the oldest stories: a take on Cain and Abel in rhyming verse. The names are not entirely familiar, but they are easy to determine, and the story itself plays out in a more or less recognizable way. God creates man, God creates woman, man and woman create children, one child kills the other.

But this is not, as some might say, your grandparent’s Cain and Abel. For one thing, there are multiple gods, not the singular from the Abrahamic tales. For another, the story is not remotely reverent. The kindest way to put it would be ribald, which the rhymes (sometimes a little forced, more often inspired if rather ridiculous) drive home intensely. The story is full of sex, laughter at humanity’s expense, even laughter at the deities themselves for causing such madness.

As an introduction to the book itself, it comes on a little strong, though the introduced themes remain throughout. As a way to weed out people who will be turned away by a book focusing on a polytheistic culture with vastly different sexual mores to the heavily Christian cultures of the United States and Europe, I imagine it will do an excellent job.

I found it delightful.

The gods make fewer appearances through the rest of the book, save in myths. The story mainly focuses on humans and their own actions, from King Sargon and his daughter to a priestess of Ishtar with a bloody mission, and many others. I feel bold enough to call it an epic, for even though its scope is limited to a relatively small part of the world (the action centers on Uruk, and the age of that city alone should be enough to say there are no globe-spanning adventures) it feels large. Part of that is due to the sheer breadth of the characters. While none of them receive the same treatment they might in deep realism, they all feel real, or at least real enough, and with so many of them treated so well, the book can’t not feel grand.

I enjoyed this book immensely, and I recommend it to anyone who considers themself interested in humanity of any time period. It is full of irreverence and sexuality, but both of those things have always been part of human nature, and it’s wonderful to read a book that celebrates both while avoiding being nothing more than simple mockery.


WHO LEFT GOD PLAYING WITH MUD?!

Sargon the Great is the King of Sumer and the most feared king of all lands. He is such a majestic king that the titles bestowed upon him place him close to the gods in the eyes of the people. However, the priests say that Sargon’s life is in danger, and death could come from any direction. The palace must be protected, and no one is to be trusted. Sargon finds himself swamped by messages from the gods, kingly responsibilities, family duties, and threats on all sides. Will Sargon's reign stand the test of time? Namir Naoum's Who Left God Playing With Mud?!  is set in the ancient world of Mesopotamia in 2300 BC and comprises themes of a religious deluge, gods, and inhumane atrocities that reflect humanity's past.

The book's depiction of a chaotic, barbaric, and very superstitious world gave me a fresh appreciation for peace and the higher level of civilization we have today. From the absurd treatment of women and the emphasis on virginity to the bloody sacrifices and wild wars, the book offers readers the opportunity to experience an unforgettable, shocking read from the safety of their homes. I shuddered excitedly with the suspenseful thrills in the book.

Prepare for an intriguing mix of historical themes and supernatural elements that incorporate ideas from religious texts. While some parts of the book are similar to biblical stories like the flood and the story of baby Moses in a basket, I recommend having an open mind to enjoy the book. If that's you, you will enjoy its portrayal of religious themes and its thought-provoking messages about several ironies and inconsistencies that are common with dogmatic teachings.

Namir's characters are very animated and often comical. They express their emotions vividly in conversations and through personal reflections, allowing readers to understand their core emotions. I found myself looking forward to more of the expressive, humorous lines. One character, for example, mentions that the gods' ways are so mysterious that he gave up on trying to understand them.

Despite its brilliance, the book has some significant features that I disliked. The most notable one is its confusing group of characters. Since its characters are quite numerous and their viewpoints are constantly mixed, I felt somewhat disconnected from them. Also, the capricious blend of dreams, stories within the main story, heavenly realms, and earthly events contributed to its confusing nature.

Overall, this grand tale offers readers a chance to teleport to an ancient, exciting, and somewhat frightening fictional world. Though it's not perfect, it entertains the reader while provoking deep thoughts about religion and history. Spirited characters, intense action, smart humor, and exciting supernatural elements make it an inviting, unique choice.


BubbleCat, Get That Balloon!

BubbleCat, Get That Balloon! is one of several stories about BubbleCat's adventures in the scary outside world while being both a bubble and a cat. BubbleCat meets with Molly Mouse to have a "favorite things" picnic together—he has his favorite hat and she has her favorite balloon. BubbleCat doesn't mean to, but he accidentally knocks her balloon out of her hands and it goes floating away! BubbleCat feels terrible and won't listen to anything that sounds like no as he goes out to get her balloon back!

I enjoyed this book for several reasons—one is that I love cats and another is that BubbleCat's adventures in this story and others are exciting and he learns something from them. BubbleCat is a great friend and thinks of others before himself. I love the pictures in the books about BubbleCat because they combine realistic things with animated drawings, making the reader pay close attention.

Kids of any age will enjoy BubbleCat, Get That Balloon! because they will learn something relevant.


Good Night, Good Beach

A family is spending some time at the seaside. Five youngsters share a bedroom with a view of the beach. Morning comes and they go exploring on the shore, examining the plants and watching gulls fly by. As evening comes, one of the children comes inside the cabin. Dad is setting the table for dinner. The other children are still at the shore as waves hush-hush on the shore. The children hide their new-found treasures of shells and sea glass in their room before getting ready for bed. The adults are finishing their day as well. It has been a good day at the beach, but now it is time for sleep.

Author Joy Cowley has written, in perfect meter and rhyme, a charming story about youngsters spending a day at the ocean shore. This is a wonderful story that will quiet the youngest of listeners at bedtime as they get ready to go to sleep. The illustrations by Hilary Jean Tapper are absolutely enchanting. They have an old-fashioned feel to them and are filled with rich details. She uses soft colors that perfectly support the gentle story. This is a real keeper that young ones will love.


Sleepy Sheepy and the Sheepover

Sleepy Sheepy is very excited. He is going to spend the night at his grandparents’ house while his parents are away for the night. Sleepy Sheepy packs up his things, everything he might need that night and a whole lot of stuff that he might not need, but it’s good to have along just in case. Finally it’s time, and Sleepy Sheepy’s parents drop him off at his grandparents’ house and tell him goodnight and goodbye.

GOODBYE??? Suddenly this doesn’t seem like so much fun. Sleepy Sheepy misses his parents and he misses his house. Grammy reads Sleepy Sheepy’s father’s favorite childhood book and Grampy makes cookies. But will it be enough to calm Sleepy Sheepy down for the night?

Author Lucy Ruth Cummins has written a very sweet, cute story that will help little ones in preparation for their first overnight, but will also help them settle down any night. The adorable illustrations in soft colors by Pete Oswald perfectly complete this fun book. Youngsters will fall in love with Sleepy Sheepy and his difficult dilemma and will ask for this story over and over. It is a winner.


Mamas and Babies

Well, the name of this book is self-explanatory. It shows real-life experiences of mother animals with their babies, from how they eat, sleep, and move. Each page focuses on a different animal and has the cutest illustration. My favorite part of the book is the orangutangs snuggled up together. Such a sweet book for young readers to see the mother/baby relationship.

This book was really cute for younger readers. It has a simple informative text that is easy to read and a nice illustration. The illustrations are colorful and life-like, so they almost appear to be watercolor. I think this is a great book for young readers who want to learn more about mommies and babies in the animal kingdom.


BubbleCat Grows a Garden

BubbleCat Grows a Garden is the story of the beloved bubble who's a cat (or vice versa) and his plan to start growing a flower garden. BubbleCat plants the seeds and then grows impatient as he waits. His friends give him ideas to get the plants to grow quicker (playing music, offering a gift, putting on a show), but BubbleCat finds nothing that works! When he is about to give up, his flowers grow and share what was successful in their growth.

BubbleCat Grows a Garden is a fun book to read for many reasons. I love cats, adventure, and how pretty flowers are; the illustrations were different than others, with real life and animation combined. The story shows how patience is always best and how to keep going and not give up! The story is best for readers of all ages because the lesson is important for everyone!


This Book Will Make You An Artist

This Book Will Make You An Artist will do exactly that. After a brief introduction covering such subjects as supplies and the color wheel, this books introduces readers to twenty-five artists, including Leonardo da Vinci, Artemisia Gentileschi, Vincent Van Gogh, Henri Matisse, Frida Kahlo, Andy Warhol, Bridget Riley, Liu Bolin, Yayoi Kusama, and Esther Mahlangu.

Ruth Millington gives a brief biography of each artist and a description of his or her style, then provides a fun art project related to that artist. Projects include painting points like Seurat, making cutouts like Matisse, splashing paint like Janet Sobel, and creating a string sculpture like Judith Scott. Millington also includes a glossary with basic art terms.

This book is a wonderful introduction to art history and technique through a variety of mediums. Especially nice, Millington’s choices are very inclusive with a balance of old and new artists, both male and female, and from a variety of countries. This book is perfect for the any budding artist looking for some inspiration.


How Animals Sleep

Dvorak Jiri, Marie Stumpfova, Benjamin Lovett

All creatures great and small, on land, in the air, or in water, need to sleep. But they can’t be tucked into warm beds as people are. The many different ways animals sleep are both fascinating and astounding.

Camels may look like they are lying down, but they actually kneel with only their elbows and knees touching the hot sand, so night breezes can cool their stomachs and humps. Giraffes sleep standing with their heads resting on high branches. They only sleep a couple hours broken up into five-minute naps. Bumblebees often sleep inside of flowers. Seals sleep underwater with their noses closed, waking and surfacing often to breathe. Flamingoes sleep standing on one foot.

Author Jiří Dvořák has written a book that young readers will find fascinating. Dvořák tells the sleep stories of sixteen different animals from the exotic, such as green tree pythons and peacocks, to the common, including cats and dogs. The beautiful illustrations by Marie Štumpfová, in soft colors, have the look of block prints with enough background detail to add interest, but not enough to distract from the main attractions. Young readers will love this book, and it will encourage them to do more research.


The Observologist: A Handbook for Mounting Very Small Scientific Expeditions

The observologist is a unique creature, an individual with an insatiable curiosity about the critters that share this world with us. Instead of exploring the heavens and booking a trip to outer space, New Zealand illustrator and comic artist Giselle Clarkson magically introduces the young observer to a world where we are surrounded by countless scores of creatures and instructs the observer to focus on the hidden populations that lounge just below our feet.

Surreptitiously, the author cleverly introduces scientific terminology as the organisms are described. But most outstanding are the whimsical descriptions she assigns to her superb ink drawings of the evidence examined. Her comical comments attached to her amazing graphic figures tickle the psyche and goad the reader to further inspect slimy slugs or to differentiate a centipede from a millipede, and perhaps to check out spider web patterns, or to enter the science of myrmecology and get to learn more about ants.

Discover the varied colored immigrant cockroaches, learn to differentiate bees from wasps, butterflies from moths, or just check out the identifying poop released by different birds, worms, and other organisms. This talented author has assembled a wealth of scientific information, and has incredibly seamed the data into a fascinating story sparkling with admirable earthy artistry and gracious wit.


The Wrong Book

This is the wrong book if you are looking for a boring read. It is funny how books work, the reader has to say what the book says even if it don't quite make sense. In this book there is a funny book mark that is pretty frustrated with the nonsense that the narrator is making up. This book will also make  you want to eat an apple because "apples say CRUNCH."

This was a really funny book, like make you laugh out loud funny. This is a great book to read with the whole family for a good time. I really like when the book mark takes over the book, and then decides "if you can't beat them join them." I would love to see more funny books like this.


A Flicker of Hope: A Story of Migration

As the monarcas prepare for their long, arduous migration north, Papa plays his guitarra and hums Lucia’s beloved song. She knows, that with the coming of spring, their time together is waning. He’ll return in the fall when the beautiful monarcas make their voyage across the countryside, rivers, and mountains. For now, they must both head northbound. He must labor in the fields to provide for his family. While Papa dreams of a more promising tomorrow, Lucia waits patiently for his homecoming. Abuela and Mama teach her to braid baskets and weave ocoxal leaves, and as autumn shines its vibrant hues, Papa and the monarcas return to where their journey began.

A Flicker of Hope is about the love of family, culture, and nature. It’s heartwarming, and though it’s mostly fiction, it has elements of nonfiction threaded throughout it. There’s a glossary that provides Spanish-English translations for those who are unfamiliar with the language. Additionally, facts about monarch butterflies are detailed in the author’s note. There are life-like illustrations that brighten the pages with lustrous colors and a welcoming aura. This sweet story is relatively short and is ideal for children ages five to nine. It’ll be a great pick for elementary school classrooms and libraries.


Wild Places: The Life of Naturalist David Attenborough

Over the past century, David Attenborough has served as a mesmeric educator introducing the public to the majestic complexity and interconnections of the myriad forms of life within our natural world. He stands as an iconic figure focusing our concern for life on this planet and the problems that threaten species survival.

In this colorfully illustrated biography of this admired naturalist, both the author and illustrator have complementarily presented a comprehensive story of David’s origins along with his professional development. The young reader will find similarities in David’s growth  from his childhood curiosity to how his interests continued to focus on the natural world.

Wishing to share his knowledge of the wild places with others, his career advanced into television and films, thus introducing his audiences to exotic plants and animals. With time, he noted that human growth was replacing the wild places, that the weather patterns were changing, oceans were losing fish, forests were losing trees and we were losing our diversity. And so began the conservation movement.

This is an enriching story about a remarkable individual well-crafted to appeal to young readers.


Yooper Poetry

Yooper Poetry is a richly immersive anthology that transports readers into the unique culture and mindset of Michigan's Upper Peninsula through the insightful, resonant voices of poets who it home. As editor Raymond Luczak notes, there is a particular "Yooper" resilience and connection to this remarkable region that shapes the lived experiences captured in these poems. These poems are “emotionally honest,” and as brutal and beautiful as the U.P. herself.

The diverse array of contributors—spanning poets who currently reside in the U.P. to those who have moved elsewhere but remain shaped by their heritage—offer enlightening perspectives across generations. Their works pay tribute to the U.P.'s natural splendors while unearthing the grit, whimsy, and indelible characters forged by this remote, uncompromising landscape.

From unsentimental snapshots of small-town life to reverential odes to the harsh, defining winters, the poems in this anthology evoke the U.P's unique sense of place with poignant specificity and admirable craft. Luczak has curated a multifaceted yet cohesive love letter to the incomparable Upper Peninsula. Whether you've braved U.P. winters or remain an armchair traveler, poetry devotees and Michiganders alike will savor these unforgettable portraits of what it truly means to be a "Yooper."


Dogland: Passion, Glory, and Lots of Slobber at the Westminster Dog Show

This is a bright breezy book about dogs. What’s not to like? It is fun to read and full of interesting facts about dogs, humorous rankings of “top” dogs and entertaining stories. In between, the author follows a dog handler to the Westminster Dog Show where she competes with a beautiful Samoyed named Striker.

There is only one complaint about this book and that I wished it had been illustrated. I spent so much time looking up pictures of different breeds and learning about their characteristics. I thought I knew what a Havanese looked like, but I certainly found many breeds previously unknown to me like the Coton du Tulear.

The author also takes a side trip to reflect personally on his pet to make the point that we all grow to love our dogs and become accustomed to having them as a constant and welcoming presence in our lives. The author travelled three years around the dog circuit and gives us a behind-the-scenes look at that world. It is a fun book to read.


Looking for a Sign: A Novel

Having absolutely devoured Dumond’s first book, Queerly Beloved, I was beyond excited for her second novel. And while Looking for a Sign definitely left me wanting a little more, there were so many things I enjoyed about the story.

After the end of a decade-long relationship, twenty-nine year old Gray is looking to settle down and start building the supportive family she’s always dreamt of and never had. On the advice of her best friend, Cherry, Gray seeks out famous astrologer Madame Nouvelle Lune to give her some advice on navigating her current relationship conundrum.

With the planet Saturn making its return, Madame assures Gray her woes are all part of the plan, and to look to the other astrological signs as guidance on how to move through her situation. Gray being the Aries she is, turns this advice into a dating challenge to go on a date with all twelve signs before her thirtieth birthday.

There was so much thoughtful character development for Gray, and the dates are steamy and cringey in equal measures. I just had a hard time connecting with Gray and her cookie-cutter white picket dreams. A great read for Mazey Eddings and Rachel Lacey fans.


Archangels of Funk

“Cinnamon Jones Invites You to an Outdoor Sci-Fi Carnival Jam at the Amphitheatre.” The New World Festival is coming up, and Cinnamon and her three Circus-Bots must get to the Co-op for rehearsal. But with the weight of responsibility for providing shelter to the flood refugees while dealing with threats from the Darknet Lords, nostalgia militia, and desperados, Cinnamon is in a funk. With the help of her friends and the promise to her elders, Cinnamon will make sure that the show goes on.

Archangels of Funk is the latest novel by award-winning author Andrea Hairston. This very original tale is a beautiful mix of cyberpunk and old-world folklore. Or, as Cinnamon elegantly put it, “a blast from the past and a holler at tomorrow.” Hairston’s Afro-futuristic masterpiece combines larger-than-life characters with a near-future landscape that feels very utopian despite the conflicts. This book is a breath of fresh air compared to many near-future works. Hairston’s writing has the rhythm of a solid funk jam combined with her poetic imagery. If this novel were a concert, it would deserve the loudest standing ovation.


Bits and Pieces: My Mother, My Brother, and Me

The author, Whoopi Goldberg is well known starting with her one woman Broadway show. From that time forward, she has starred in movies, television and Comic Relief. This book provides a way to get to know her better since it focuses on her family life. She was born Caryn Johnson and  nicknamed Whoopi in the comedy clubs. Her mother chose a family surname to dub her Goldberg. It is clear that she adored her mother and brother who are now deceased. The author details the many outings her mother arranged for her children, in spite of working as a single parent. It is a sweet book but doesn’t sugar coat her rebellious nature and hard times. It is a tribute to her character that she paid back all of the welfare money which supported her and her young child.

It surprised me that this is Ms. Goldberg’s eighth book along with her seven children’s books. It is heart warming that a celebrity would look back and thank her devoted family for believing in her.


Bare Knuckle: Bobby Gunn, 73-0 Undefeated. A Dad. A Dream. A Fight Like You've Never Seen

Stayton Bonner, a former editor and writer for Rolling Stone, channels his razor-sharp reporting to tell the story of Bobby Gunn, the most celebrated fighter in the history of bare-knuckle boxing, in his book Bare Knuckle.

Bonner starts with a portrait of Gunn as a family man who was raised by a father who believed his son was born to fight. Legend has it that Bobby left school in second grade and his father arranged a fight for him in a parking lot that set Bobby's fate on course. The Gunn family is part of a group of Travelers, nomadic people with roots in gypsy culture, and everywhere the elder Gunn took his son, Bobby fought. The road was hard, but eventually, Bobby became the most known bare-knuckle fighter and the most brutal. And, he continued the family tradition by training his son, Bobby Jr., to follow in his footsteps. Bobby Jr., though, wants a life in professional boxing, hoping to leave the underground world of bare-knuckle fighting to his father.

Bobby Gunn wants to preserve his legacy and provide for his family; the birth of his daughter shifted his priorities so now he works laying asphalt and fighting to pay her private school tuition and ensure her future is brighter than his past. The book details fights from all over the country, and Bonner's writing style is as sharp as I imagine Gunn's left hook to be. Some moments feel a bit repetitive, but that is to be expected in a book about a life with a great deal of overlap.


A Grave Robbery (A Veronica Speedwell Mystery)

Veronica Speedwell and her handsome partner Stoker are at it again in this fun and fraught mystery romp from Danna Raybourn. A Grave Robbery, the ninth book in the Speedwell series, provides twists at several key moments to keep the pages turning.

After Lord Rosemorran acquires a lifelike wax figure of a sleeping woman, he asks Stoker to equip the figure with a clock mechanism so that the figure will be similar to those at Madame Tussaud's. The task, though challenging, should be relatively easy given Stoker's particular skillset, but when the figure is revealed to contain the preserved body of a beautiful dead woman, Veronica becomes invested in determining the woman's identity and how she met with such a terrible fate. Unraveling the mystery takes the pair to a traveling circus, the halls of an aristocrat's home, and an  underground tunnel system, all of which smack of peril.

Having not read Raybourn before, I was immediately hooked by the description and detail of each scene and the expert renderings of the characters. Villains where you expect none, heroes and heroines in surprising corners—I was often surprised and delighted by the choices. And if, like me, this is your first in the Speedwell series, fear not. When Raybourn refers to other adventures shared by Stoker and Speedwell she caringly provides a footnote with the title in which that adventure appears. It's a masterful way to build an audience for the other eight books while you ponder the truth at the heart of A Grave Robbery.


Nancy Bess Had a Dress

Nancy Bess and her mother go to the store. Mother tells Nancy Bess to choose whatever bag of flour she wants. She chooses one that has a pretty daisy pattern on a blue background. She doesn’t care that it is at the bottom of the stack. That is the one she wants. Nancy Bess and her mother bake up a storm, and soon that flour bag is empty. They measure, cut, stitch, and save every scrap.

Soon, Nancy Bess has a new dress. She wears it everywhere until the dress is too small for the growing girl. She measures, cuts, stitches, and saves every scrap, and soon she has an apron, then a satchel, then a scarf, etc. And so it goes until there is nothing left but scraps to make a quilt.

Claire Annette Noland has written a sweet story of how families did not waste anything in the Depression. Nancy Bess is a clever character who appreciates what she has and doesn’t complain about making do. Noland’s writing is lovely. The colorful illustrations by Angela C. Hawkins are simply enchanting with marvelous details filling every page and complementing the story perfectly. Kids will love this beautiful book.


First Light: A Novel (Night's Edge, 2)

There are some things one can never outrun, the past being one of them. In the wake of a personal loss, Mia has left home and moved to New York City. Despite the everyday perils of life in the big city, there is a new threat posed by a virus called “Saratovs Syndrome.” The virus turns its hosts into vampires (dubbed “Saras”). Mia is well acquainted with this affliction as it infected and killed her mother.

Despite thousands of miles of distance, Mia feels the looming presence of her mother’s boyfriend, Devon, who turned her mother into a monster. Mia wants to learn more about the Saras and takes a job at a volunteer center that shelters and cares for them. Soon, Mia meets the enigmatic Cora and is drawn to her. The pair soon break out from the shelter leading to a journey fraught with peril.

First Light is the highly charged and thrilling sequel to Night’s Edge (2023). Author Liz Kerin writes of a nightmarish landscape where Mia seeks to liberate herself from the burdensome only to walk into a new kind of misery. A book that combines sci-fi/horror with just the right amount of heart to make for a well-rounded read.


The Incredible Octopus: Meet the Eight-Armed Wonder of the Sea

It is hard to know where to begin in reviewing The Incredible Octopus: Meet the Eight-Armed Wonder of the World. Marine ecologist Erin Spencer has written an amazing book that presents a treasure trove of information about these fascinating creatures. Maybe equally importantly, this book is beautifully designed.

The text covers a remarkably broad range of information: where octopi live around the globe, their anatomy, including their suckers and nine brains, their babies, ink, what they eat, what eats them, their intelligence, how they play, and various types of octopi. That said, this information is given in small, easily understood tidbits that do not overwhelm the reader. Moreover, the information varies in complexity, providing something of interest for all.

While one reader might enjoy learning about famous octopus antics, another might want to understand why octopi are called cephalopods. Finally, the photographs in this book are beyond stunning. It is easy to see young readers poring over this book again and again. Fair warning, though: expect a request to visit your local aquarium in the near future.


The Cure for Burnout: How to Find Balance and Reclaim Your Life

Burnout management coach Emily Ballesteros confirms and validates millions of people's negative thoughts and beliefs toward their jobs and life in general. Through scientific research and individual experiences (including her own), she gets specific with the nitty-gritty of burnout: the three types, symptoms associated with this less-than-desired feeling, "coping skills" and self-care to manage, and reinventing your life to bring pleasure and balance. Ballesteros shows that burnout is a real problem that affects many people and should be taken seriously.

The Cure for Burnout is appropriate for nearly all readers! There comes a point at any age that they feel "burnt out" and even if it doesn't happen because of a job, skills, techniques, and knowledge are building blocks for the victims to get and feel better. The text is best and most likely to be comprehended by a high school student or older due to the scientific nature and this age-range's ability to relate. Each chapter supports its siblings and the theme overall. Reader's will find something to resonate with and become a better person because of it.


Time for the Stars

As overpopulation stressed the Earth’s resources past its needs, the Long Range Foundation (LRF) sought solutions. One project of the LRF was testing twins for mind-reading abilities. Sending out ships seeking inhabitable planets needed reliable communications. They aim to send one twin into space while the other stays on Earth to collect transmissions. One pair of twins recruited for this project are Tom and Pat. Pat stays on Earth as Tom flies at near-lightspeed. If Tom survives, will he return at the same age he left?

Time for the Stars is a classic novella by Robert A. Heinlein. First published in 1956, this tale of near-lightspeed space travel is an excellent example of a work from the Golden Age of Science Fiction. Heinlein is a master of character development, and Tom and Pat are great examples. This story is still a relevant piece of sci-fi almost seventy years later. Though other authors have touched on the themes of near-lightspeed travel, Heinlein was a great inspiration, and this book is thick with Einstein’s theories and space travel science. For fans of Heinlein and retro sci-fi, this is an excellent read.


Allow Me to Introduce Myself: A Novel

Onyx Nwabinelli's latest book Allow Me to Introduce Myself is as timely as it is brilliant--if you use social media or have ever seen a momfluencer account, this is a must-read.

Anuri grew up online through no choice of her own. Her first steps, her toddler years, and the awkward moments of her adolescence, were all captured, posted, and monetized for the benefit of her stepmother/momfluencer, Ophelia. Her father, Nkem, did little to interfere because he was still grieving the death of Anuri's mother, and he didn't understand the damage Ophelia's choices did. At 14, Anuri rebelled against Ophelia and removed herself from Ophelia’s reach, but the content from her childhood still existed online. Even into her twenties, people recognized her and sought her out despite her desire to remain anonymous.

When Anuri sees the same destructive pattern appearing for her stepsister Noelle, she is determined to provide Noelle with the protection no one sought for her. With the support of her two closest friends, her lawyer, and a new love interest, Anuri vows to never give up until she knows Noelle is safe. Allow Me to Introduce Myself is a brilliant commentary on the harm of forcing children into a spotlight they didn’t consent to and on the constant and abiding love we can find in our friends.


Close to Death: A Novel (A Hawthorne and Horowitz Mystery, 5)

Once again, brilliant British author Anthony Horowitz delights readers with his twisted and wicked sense of humor. Don’t be misled, this novel includes a murder. There are plenty of misdeeds committed by the seemingly genteel homeowners in an exclusive British enclave, Riverside Close. By the way, a Close is a court (cul-de-sac) with a narrow entry lane. Riverside Close is also a gated community.

There is a bird’s eye illustration at the front of the book that identifies the houses by name and lists the occupants. I suggest that you use a bookmark or a Post-it on this page for easy reference. As is usually the situation in a small neighborhood, at least one household is an unwelcome addition to the mix.

Close to Death is the fifth time author Horowitz, who inserts himself into the novel, calls on Detective Daniel Hawthorne for assistance in solving a brain teaser of a mystery. The two of them barely tolerate each other and yet, it takes both of them to crack this case. Be on the lookout for double entendres, word puzzles, and puns.

Readers just discovering the Hawthorne and Horowitz books, don’t worry about reading them in order. Highly recommended.


Day Hiking Columbia River Gorge, 2nd Edition: Waterfalls * Vistas * State Parks * National Scenic Area (Mountaineers Books)

The eighty-mile-long Columbia River Gorge separating Washington from Oregon is one of the National Scenic Areas of the US. There really is no place like it. This area has immense beauty with its countless waterfalls and peaks rising up to four thousand feet. This area is filled with numerous trails of all lengths and difficulties. Whether looking for an easy hike filled with wildflowers, a pleasant climb to the top of a waterfall, or a challenging trek up a scenic peak, there is a hike for everyone’s desires in this natural playground.

Day Hiking: Columbia River Gorge by Craig Romano is a handy book for hikers of all levels looking to get out on the trail. Each hike highlighted in this guide has an overview, directions to the trailhead, and a description of what to expect. I have done many of the hikes in this book and can honestly say Romano’s write-ups are spot on. This guide also contains maps of the whole area and a trail map of each hike. A handy “Hikes at a Glance” section lays out the vital info like length, difficulty, or if it’s dog friendly. This useful 2nd edition is out just in time to hit the trail.


Where Do Ocean Creatures Sleep at Night?

Steven J. Simmons and Clifford R. Simmons

Everyone needs to sleep! Where Do Ocean Creatures Sleep at Night is a wonderful book for young children that will teach them about some of the most popular underwater creatures and their sleeping habits. The first thing I noticed about this book was the beautiful, calming colors presented on the front cover of the book which shows some of the animals featured in the book. These watercolor-style illustrations continue throughout the book and children will enjoy feeling as if they are on the beach or underwater observing the creatures.

The book is written in four-line prose with the first two lines rhyming and the second two lines rhyming. The author gives some really fun facts about each of the animals featured. These facts include the color-changing properties of an octopus, that the seahorse holds onto a plant or coral while it sleeps so it doesn't drift away, how only one side of a dolphin's brain is asleep when it is sleeping, and so many more interesting facts.

Parents will be able to have discussions about the animals with their children, asking them which ones they like the most or find the most intriguing. I feel that many fun conversations could come up when talking about underwater animals sleeping and although the book is not very long, it will spark interest in young minds. A child may find that he or she wants to learn more about the animals featured in the book.

While Authors Steven J. Simmons and Clifford R. Simmon do an exemplary job of creating a rhyming underwater adventure for young ones, my favorite part of the book was the illustrations that accompanied the poems. Illustrator Ruth E. Harper has a magic hand when it comes to creating the scenes in the book. As I read each page and took in the scenery and the animals featured, I felt the calmness of the sea and a whole ecosystem that we, as humans, don't see on a day-to-day basis. Under the sea, we can observe how animals interact with one another such as the anemone and clownfish. Before reading this book, I had no idea that clownfish live and sleep in anemones which are poisonous to other fish. I also found it interesting that a walrus can go days without rest and can sleep on land or in water.

Where Do Ocean Creatures Sleep at Night is the perfect bedtime story for young children as sometimes just thinking about sleep can make us yawn and be ready for a sweet goodnight. I recommend this book for children ages three to eight, however, I think older children would also enjoy reading this book to younger siblings.