What are you currently reading?
Heiress Takes All by Emily Wibberley - A girl plots a heist to punish the wealthy father who abandoned and cut her off and his new wife.
What did you recently finish reading?
Shift Happens by J Albert Mann - This non-fiction book explores the history of labor and unions in the US in a very readable, conversational tone.
What do you think you'll read next?
Night Stories by Liniers
Starting with a conversation between a child and mother, this is a wild adventure as the protagonist is blown about through imaginative landscapes. While he travels far, he returns to the safety of home and there is never any true sense of danger. Instead, with a plot reminiscent of In the Night Kitchen and illustrations not unlike the work of Tommie DePaola, this is a gentle adventure that will be soothing to the young and encourage creativity in older kids.
Advanced Reader Copy provided by NetGalley
If you're like me you probably have very little knowledge of Asian mythology. While this book won't tell you everything by any means, it does provide a picture into the world of Japanese myth. We meet a variety of spirits and get a glimpse of their abilities. Anzu is a solid character, dealing with grief and a desire to belong, unsure of who she even is anymore. We see these struggles reflected in characters in the spirit realm as well. With detailed illustrations that use color and light to the perfect degree this is a book that lends itself to frequent re-reading.
Author: Abby Cooper
Genre: dystopia
Similar books: The Town With No Mirrors by Christina Collins
Falling Out of Time by Margaret Peterson Haddix
Rating:
My opinion: With the set-up here, the average reader will not be surprised at the direction that this plot takes. The messaging about emotional complexity is clear, making it easy for a young reader to grasp. The writing itself isn't especially nuanced. Characters are thin. It's a unique concept but doesn't really extend much beyond that. It doesn't take chances or stretch the reader much.
Advanced Reader Copy provided by NetGalley
Between the title and the cover art, no one is going to be surprised by the humorous nature of this book. It absolutely does not take itself seriously. This is basically the more madcap version of Scott Pilgrim. With a meathead, jerk villain, constant battles, and a strong fighter as a female character, this is a fun read. Nothing deep, but still quite enjoyable.
What are you currently reading?
Stepping Off by Jordan Sonnenblick - A rising junior who feels like the biggest struggle he faces is his attraction to two girls finds his world rapidly changing in the face of his parents' marital struggles and the appearance of COVID-19.
What did you recently finish reading?
The Space You Left Behind by Ona Gritz - A verse novel that explores identity for a disabled teen, her sperm donor father, and what feels missing in her life.
What do you think you'll read next?
Dr. Z and Matty Take Telegraph by Ari Rosenschein
This story of a girl whose whole world has been turned upside down learning to see life through a different lens could be pretty compelling. Let's give it a listen and find out together.
