Book Review: Please Feel Bad I’m Dead by M. Price

27/01/202327/01/2023Contemporary Fiction, Mental Health, Surreal FictionLeave a Comment

Book Details:

Author: M. Price
Release Date: 28th May 2022
~~Series~~:
Genre: Contemporary Fiction, Surreal Fiction
Format: E-book
Pages: 294
Publisher: –
Blurb:
Jhaegar Holdburn is a forlorn teenage edgelord who constantly attempts suicide and finds himself continually failing due to last second blunders. His desire for death comes from his often frazzled, often incoherent mind and how it fuels the way he’s ostracized by his peers as well as how he’s been made a pariah in the current social climate. At last the opportunity arises, Jhaegar manages to commit suicide using a foolproof method, and after years of despair he finally dies…
But not quite…
Jhaegar is instead resurrected…as he will always be resurrected. He finds the one thing standing in the way of sweet death is his uncanny inability to truly die and that his suicides result in increasingly stranger and psychedelic realities, irreversibly made worse by his ever deteriorating mind. He discovers the only way to break this cycle of death and rebirth is to uncover the real root of his problems and find his own personal sense of happiness, as well as to unravel the esoteric tangle of his own repressed psyche.
But, with his grasp of reality slipping away by the minute, will Jhaegar have time to save himself from his own self-destruction?

Review

Please Feel Bad I’m Dead by M. Price is a dark contemporary take on teenage mental health issues. This book is about a teen boy whose dark thoughts, and the inhumanity of the world around him, lead his psyche to deteriorate to a point where he wants nothing but to end his life. So he commits suicide only to find that he cannot end his life. Every time he kills himself, he is resurrected.

This book chronicles his journey of trying to kill himself and then resurrecting with an even more deteriorated psyche only to conclude that he would have to face his own demons and explore the depths of his fragile mind which might hold the key for him to understand what is happening and maybe even his happiness.

This book is quite similar to Matt Haig’s The Midnight Library, although much darker and with a different concept of resurrection. I would recommend this book to all mental health fiction readers and anyone wanting to explore the surrealism of being trapped in a mind that suffers from acute and clinical depression.

Although be advised this could be a strongly triggering read for people who are sensitive, especially to suicide and depression.

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Book Review: A Pterodactyl Named Kahoutek by Matthew Levine

05/01/202306/01/2023Children's Fiction, Humor, Matthew Levine, Short-StoriesLeave a Comment

Book Details:

Author: Matthew Levine
Release Date: 9th November 2022
~~Series~~:
Genre: Children’s Humorous Literature, Short Stories collection, Children’s Humor
Format: E-book
Pages: 20
Publisher: –
Blurb:
A short story for youth of all ages with humor adults might enjoy about a clumsy Pterodactyl that befriends a sad teenage girl on a San Francisco bus. Contain discussion questions for students at the end.

Review

A Pterodactyl Named Kahoutek by Matthew Levine is a beautifully written book with an equally beautiful and important message that is delivered adeptly using humour and amazing imagery.

This book is a very short read, but the message it offers to its readers is way broader than the confines of this book as it applies to everyone, universally. The author had done an amazing job of sharing some very important life lessons with great moral value using simple language and a very interesting story that is brought to life with well-developed characterisation.

I would strongly recommend this book to all children and adult readers alike because it has something to offer to all its readers.

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Book Review: Let’s Celebrate Being Different by Lainey Dee

13/12/2022Children's Fiction, Lainey DeeLeave a Comment

Book Details:

Author: Lainey Dee
Release Date: 29th August 2022
~~Series~~:
Genre: Children’s Fiction
Format: E-book
Pages: 23
Publisher: ShieldCrest Publishing
Blurb:
Todd is different from all the other animals -with the head of a bird, the tummy of a bear and the legs of a tiger and he feels he doesn’t quite fit in anywhere! His family love him dearly but it’s hard for him to make friends.
During a visit to his grandmother’s, Todd express’s his concern and she tells him: ‘It’s okay to be different’.
Instilled with new confidence he sets out for the Friday Club, a place where all the animals gather and socialise with their friends. Will he find the courage to face his fears and embrace his differences?
He might be surprised to find some friends along the way! More importantly can he learn to accept himself?

Review

Let’s Celebrate Being Different by Lainey Dee is a brilliant children’s book that touches upon the important topic of accepting oneself the way one is and how it affects and helps the surrounding people accept them too. The concept of self-acceptance is beautifully illustrated in this book through the protagonist, Todd, who is unlike any other animal. The author had done an excellent job in bringing forth his doubts and fears about being different and then having his grandmother helping him encourage him to accept himself for his identity and to be okay with who or what he is.

This book has a beautiful message and a very well-structured story that demonstrates the problems faced by most children, especially children who are not like others in any way. The illustrations are wonderful and convey the point across well. Overall, I’d recommend this book to all children of ages 4 and above, and their parents, as this book has a beautiful lesson to teach the younger kids.

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Book Review: A Council Of Ghosts by Ryan Harper Jones

03/08/202218/08/2022Adventure, Children's Fiction, Fantasy, High fantasy, Magic, Magic/Elementals, Ryan Harper Jones1 Comment

Book Details:

Author: Ryan Harper Jones
Release Date: 1st November 2021
~~Series~~:
Genre: Children’s Fantasy, Adventure Fantasy, Sword & Sorcery
Format: E-book
Pages: 222 pages
Publisher:
Blurb:
When a sorcerer arrives in Edgings Burrow, Saul, Ruby, and Henry don’t realise the turmoil their lives are about to encounter. Transported into a strange world of sorcerers, vampires, and ghosts, the three children endure a desperate race to return home which takes them to the edge of war, through the clutches of slave traders and kidnappers, before they discover a deep dark secret.

Review

A Council Of Ghosts by Ryan Harper Jones is a brilliant new fantasy adventure book full of fast-paced twists and turns that’ll keep the reader on the edge of their seats from the beginning of the book right down to the very end. This book was an emotional philosophical rollercoaster ride that left me wanting more!

I absolutely loved the writing as it had a great flow and, at times, showcased a beautiful lyrical quality, especially in the descriptions that helped elevate the narrative to an entirely different level. The characterisation was the best part of the book and I was able to relate to not only the main characters of Saul, Ruby and Henry but also to the secondary characters.

I would strongly recommend this book to all fantasy readers, especially children’s fantasy and adventure lovers because it has a lot to offer to everyone.

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Graphic Novel Review: Shrieks and Sounds and Things Abound! (The Quiet Wants of Julien J.) by Drew Palacio

08/06/2022Children's Fiction, Comics/Graphic Novels, Drew Palacio, Graphic-Novel, Poetry, Short-StoriesLeave a Comment

Book Details:

Author: Drew Palacio
Release Date: 9th May 2022
Series: The Quiet Wants Of Julien J. (Book #1)
Genre: Children’s Fiction, Short Story, Graphic Novel, Poetry
Format: E-book
Pages: 34 pages
Publisher: Brandylane Publishers Inc
Blurb:
JULIEN J’s frustrating evening takes an extraordinary turn when BLUEBULLET, his favorite comic book superhero, pays him a surprise visit.
After a long day filled with school and homework, Julien immerses himself in the latest adventures of Bluebullet, his favorite comic book. His evening reading retreat goes awry when the neighborhood crow starts incessantly cackling. He attempts to drown the noise but finds himself interrupted again. This time it’s by a group of sneezing, buzzing bees. Julien’s exasperation balloons inside him. Determined to finish, he sticks his nose back into his book. His efforts are finally thwarted by additional creatures, now all simultaneously ruining his day.

This unwelcome commotion unfolds while Bluebullet is at a crucial moment in his battle! The cacophony of noises derail his experience and sends him into a fit of rage. Julien screams at the top of his lungs – so loudly, that it summons Bluebullet himself, who swoops down from the sky, ready to help! Julien’s anger would become the catalyst for a profound learning experience. Bluebullet is a wise, seasoned hero who imparts pivotal guidance to Julien. At this moment, Julien learns to maintain his peace of mind even when confronted with adversity.

Review

Shrieks And Sounds And Things Around! by Drew Palacio is the first book in the new children’s graphic novel series, The Quiet Wants of Julien J.

This book is tremendously engaging and I enjoyed reading it a lot. The illustrations are beautiful and captivating and the writing is really impressive. The book has a big moral to share with its readers in the end and that makes this book all the more precious. The poetry in the book has a great flow and will be easily understandable by children.

I would highly recommend it to all middle graders and early teens and to parents who read books to their children. This book has such a beautiful message for everyone that you wouldn’t want to miss out on it.

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Graphic Novel Review: Chelsea’s Forever Garden by Laura Lamb

14/11/2021Children's Fiction, Graphic-Novel, Laura Lamb, Middle-GradeLeave a Comment

Book Details:

Author: Laura Lamb
Release Date: 9th October 2021
Genre: Children’s Fiction, Middle Grade Fiction
~~Series~~:
Format: E-book
Pages: 32 pages
Publisher:
Blurb:
Imagine being given a gift beyond your wildest dreams! Chelsea is beyond excited to now possess her own plot of land on her parents’ farm! It is hers to do with as she pleases. Travel with Chelsea through the decisions she must make. Share in her delight as she spends countless days and nights watching the natural unfolding of her garden and its creatures. Walk with Chelsea as she learns the wisdom of Mother Nature. See how her special bond affects her everyday life. Until, one day, she realizes she’s lost that connection to her special garden. What happens now? Will Chelsea ever regain her feelings of joy and freedom again? Treat yourself to these pages that hold incredible insights for both the young and old.

Review

Chelsea’s Forever Garden is a beautiful book about that special place where a person feels happy and safe and, more importantly, how to find it in the midst of chaos and challenging situations. This is a wonderfully written and brilliantly illustrated book which will teach the reader a very important lesson – you can always find joy, no matter what, if you’d only allow yourself the time and put in a little effort to find it.

I would highly recommend this book to all young children, pre-teens and teenagers as this book will explain to them the value of finding peace and connecting with happy memories and places in times of dire need.

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Graphic Novel Review: Sticky Icky Vicky by Alysia Ssentamu and Michael Ssentamu

18/10/202127/10/2021Alysia Ssentamu, Children's Fiction, Graphic-Novel, Michael Ssentamu2 Comments

Book Details:

Author: Alysia Ssentamu & Michael Ssentamu
Illustrator: Noor Alshalabi
Release Date: 19th October 2019
Genre: Children’s Fiction
~~Series~~:
Format: E-book
Pages: 38 pages
Publisher: –
Blurb:
Meet Sticky Icky Vicky, a girl who wants to get over her fear—once and for all
In Courage over Fear, the first book in the Sticky Icky Vicky™ series, authors Alysia and Michael Ssentamu introduce readers to Vicky, a fun-loving girl who doesn’t mind getting a little sticky and icky. She loves rolling down hills and playing in mud—but when it comes to water, Sticky Icky Vicky’s fear prevents her from joining in the fun. Then Vicky gets an invitation for a waterpark party, and she decides that she really wants to go—even if it means ignoring the Negative Ned voice in her head and getting over her fear.

With vibrant illustrations and catchy rhymes, Courage over Fear offers children an inspirational/loveable heroine who learns some valuable life lessons, such as:
● Courage
● Positive thinking
● Goal-setting
Aimed primarily at readers aged six to ten, Sticky Icky Vicky: Courage over Fear is a reading experience that leaves kids believing that they, like Vicky, can get past any obstacle in their way.

Review

Sticky Icky Vicky by Alysia Ssentamu & Michael Ssentamu is a beautiful and brilliant children’s fiction book that has a lot to teach the kids.

This book is really good and has such amazing characters. I loved Vicky and her friends, but apart from them I also loved how the authors intuitively and smartly created Negative Ned and Positive Ted. I mean, it is a stroke of brilliance because it makes this book a precious gem that will teach the children about the negative and the positive voice inside their heads (which we all know but are scared of most of the time.)

The story is great and I loved how the authors displayed courage in this engaging story. The illustrations are beautiful and made reading this book a real treat! I would definitely recommend this book to all parents for their kids because it is a very educative and entertaining read.

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Book Review: Dear Me: Letters to Myself, For All of My Emotions by Donna Tetreault

06/05/202106/05/2021Children's Fiction, Donna Tetreault, Non-FictionLeave a Comment

Author: Donna Tetreault, Elisena Bonadio (Illustrations)
Release Date: 15th March 2021
Genre: Children’s Non-Fiction
Series:
Format: E-book
Pages: 36 pages
Publisher: Donna Tetreault
Blurb:
Dear Me, Letters to Myself For All of My Emotions teaches young children how to recognize and manage the emotions they feel throughout the day. Through a series of letters that begin with, Dear Me, a young child writes down his feelings. These letters allow him to recognize that he can change how he feels while practicing self-kindness and compassion.

Dear Me serves as a guide to help kids learn about expressing feelings, understanding those feelings, and then deciding what to do about them in ways that are healthy, helpful, and kind. The book models several approaches for parents, but, more directly, models how children can develop the social-emotional skill of managing emotions by naming emotions, journaling, and mindful breathing.

Beautiful illustrations support this empowering message designed to help children understand and appreciate all of their emotions.

Dear Me, Letters to Myself For All of My Emotions teaches children:
– Self-love
– Self-regulation
– Self-advocacy
– Managing emotions
– Empathy
– Journaling
– Mindful breathing

Review

A beautiful children’s book I would highly suggest to all parents for their little ones. It teaches the kids about self-love, which I think, is very unique and one of the biggest plus points about this unique and amazing book!

You can also read this review on Goodreads.

Graphic Novel Review: Mr. Flopsy, Whispers from God: A Lesson on Being Still by Christi Eley

05/02/202105/02/2021Children's Fiction, Christi EleyLeave a Comment

Author: Christi Eley
Illustrator: Aries Cheung
Release Date: 8th January 2021
Genre: Children’s Fiction, Christian Fiction
Series: Mr. Flopsy, Whispers From God
Format: E-book
Pages: 40 pages
Publisher: Cottontail Publishing
Blurb:
Mr. Flopsy, Whispers from God is an early reader storybook that shares the simple message and guidance from a pet bunny to help your child find stillness and peace. By connecting with animals, children learn to see and hear God’s love and feel secure as they learn to be quiet, patient, brave and trusting. Written in a rhythmic bouncy script, Mr. Flopsy,

Whispers from God: A Lesson on Being Still provides a platform for your child to begin their own relationship with God and is reaffirmed by the gentle words and affirmations of God’s love through the Bible verse “Be still and Know that I am God” Psalm 46:10. Join Mr. Flopsy on this heartwarming adventure that will inspire your child for a lifetime!

Review

Mr. Flopsy, Whispers From God: A Lesson On Being Still by Christi Eley is a colourful short graphic novel for children that helps them understand how to be still.

This book series is very unconventional and teaches different important verses from the Bible in a very simplified and easy to understand way for children. And this particular book talks about how to show children the wisdom in being still. I suppose this book is especially for those children who are always loud and have extra energy that seems to drain everyone around them – I’ve seen a couple of such children myself. So this book teaches the children how exactly to sit quiet and still while also focusing on the fact that sometimes it is actually good to just relax and be.

The illustrations in this book are really good – very cute and attractive, and I am positive the children would love studying them and might even draw a couple of them for themselves.

This book would be great for parents who like reading bed-side stories to their children, even if they are not a Christian, they can always use the trick given in this book to modify and apply according to how they see it fit as per their own religion and customs. In particular, I think, this book would be really beneficial to those parents who have hyperactive children in calming them by way of positive reinforcement.

You can also read this review on Goodreads and Amazon

Book Review: The Girl Who Found Christmas: An Advent Calendar Storybook by Barbara Escher

25/11/202026/11/2020Barbara Escher, Children's FictionLeave a Comment

Author: Barbara Escher
Release Date: 1st October 2019
Genre: Children’s Fiction | Christian Fiction
Series:
Format: E-book
Pages: 136 pages
Publisher: Red Mitten Books
Blurb:

For untold ages, the refugees from the land of Deschemb have lived secretly beneath the surface of human society. Now modern civilization crumbles as their ancient feud boils to the surface. As chaos and brutality engulf the world, strange alien forces reshape the lands for a new beginning…for whoever survives.

In the frozen Canadian wastes, the United Deschembines take shelter in an abandoned military base, under the leadership of Jesse Karn, Zane Rochester, and Sally Coscan.

As they make the journey toward Christmas, grandparents may find unique opportunities to talk to kids about the Christmas traditions in their own family and share funny stories about mom and dad! Reading together makes laughing together a special shared time as Christmas approaches. For more information about Barbara and The Girl Who Found Christmas, visit http://www.RedMittenBooks.com

Review

The Girl Who Found Christmas by Barbara Escher is a beautiful, fun, entertaining as well as enlightening read about Christmas. The story is very unique and follows a pattern that can be a very fun activity for children. Each and every chapter is a different day in the month of December (starting from 1st December through 25th December) and is a short story in itself.

I enjoyed reading this book a lot, and even though there is still time for Christmas, I felt like we were nearing it as the book progressed. I loved the main as well as secondary characters who all have something or the other to teach the reader.

I would highly suggest this book to all parents who read books to their children as well as whose children love reading books by themselves because it would not only entertain them but will also teach them the real meaning of festivals (in the overall sense.)

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Book Review: Magicmals – The Troublemakers by April Enciso

19/11/2019Adventure, April Enciso, Children's Fiction, Fantasy, Magic, Magic/Elementals, Middle-GradeLeave a Comment

Author: April Enciso
Release Date: 18th June 2019
Genre: Middle-Grade Fiction, Children’s Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy
Series: Magicmals
Edition: E-book
Pages: 68
Publisher:
Blurb:
After all the excitement of talking Magicmals, disappearing buildings, and space travel last year, ten-year-old Eva, her younger brother Diego, and her best friend Jenny are all looking forward to a nice quiet time in school. But algebra and art class are soon forgotten when they get an urgent message from wizard cat Willie Whiskas. Two of the Magicmals, Pookie and Gray Baby, have gone rogue, vanishing into outer space where they are wreaking havoc on a new planet! In Book Two of a series that’s hilarious fun for the whole family (pets, too!), Eva and the Magicmals gang go head to head with twice as many obstacles, have twice as many adventures, and get two very naughty cats out of trouble.

REVIEW

★★★★

Magicmals: Troublemakers by April Enciso is the sequel to Magicmals: The Beginning in the Magicmals series. This book was every bit as good as its prequel, even more so in my opinion, and I enjoyed reading every single bit of it!

The story picks up a year later when the happenings and adventures of the last book are all part of the new routine for Eva and gang. But right when they think that things are smooth and studies are the only troubles they have then end up in the middle of another bigger and riskier adventure!

I enjoyed the plot a lot and felt that the writing showed some improvement, though I’d say that it needs some more work. Even some tight editing would do wonders for the book, but again, the plot and characters steal the show and make up for these and any other flaw the book might have. I guess I love the main character of Eva so much, who reminds me constantly of my own cat, that I was okay with the minor technicalities. Though if these faults are to be rectified in a proper way then this series has a lot of potential in the children’s fiction-fantasy market.

If you are a cat person then you MUST read this book and this series!

You can also read this review on Goodreads and Amazon

Book Review: Magicmals – The Beginning by April Enciso

14/11/2019Adventure, Children's Fiction, Fantasy, Magic, Magic/Elementals, Middle-GradeLeave a Comment

Author: April Enciso
Release Date: 20th January 2019
Genre: Middle-Grade Fiction, Children’s Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy
Series: Magicmals
Edition: E-book
Pages: 69
Publisher:
Blurb:
When Eva and her brother Diego move to a new city, she expects the worst attending a new school. As she struggles to fit in at her new school, strange things begin to happen to animals in her neighborhood. She discovers a race of animals called Magicmals that possess powerful magical powers. When buildings start mysteriously disappearing in her town, they all go a hair-raising adventure to return their city to normal.

REVIEW

★★★★

Magicmals: The Beginning by April Enciso is an adventurous and very entertaining new children’s book that you simply cannot miss.

I am a cat person through and through. And coincidentally my very first furball’s name is Eva too! So I had to read this book and there was no way that I wouldn’t have liked it. But keeping my personal bias aside, this book has so much to offer its readers that it would make for a perfect read for kids. It is full of adventures, perils, drama, magic as well as beautifully portrayed friendships.

I personally feel that nowadays there should be more books like this in order to make children understand that even animals have feelings. This book would help make children not only considerate towards animals but will also teach them to empathise with animals.

Technically, I feel that the writing could have been a bit more polished but this is my first book by the author and hopefully, we’ll see improvement in the next instalment of this series. But to be honest the plot more than made up for it, therefore I loved every bit of this book and would recommend it to all middle-graders and also adults who love animals, especially cats.

You can also read this review on Goodreads and Amazon

Book Review: Naji And The Mystery Of The Dig By Vahid Imani

04/05/201908/05/2019Children's Fiction, Middle-Grade, Vahid ImaniLeave a Comment

Author: Vahid Imani
Release Date: 9th May 2014
Genre: Middle-Grade Fiction
Series:
Edition: E-book
Pages: 198
Publisher: Stormtop Publishing
Blurb:
One summer morning, eight-year old Naji woke up to an unusual sound. Three strangers were digging in her courtyard. Naji’s sixth sense warned her: something suspicious was lurking down there. As events unfold and suspense rises, readers will enjoy the many colors of Persian culture, cuisine, folklore, history, geography, religion, language, and intrigue through Naji’s eyes and heart. No one was prepared for what the diggers discovered far below the surface of the courtyard. Not even Naji.

REVIEW

★★★

Naji And The Mystery Of The Dig by Vahid Imani is a delightful children’s book rich with cultural details and full of moral lessons. Naji was a likeable kid and therefore the story didn’t fall behind in grabbing my interest. Though the story could have been a bit shorter and therefore a much faster read.

It is a humble and honest story full of innocence and wonders and I’m sure that the kids would love it. I feel that children younger than middle-graders might also enjoy a light reading of this book.

I’d recommend this book for all children as this book has some really good aspects that the children would love and their parents would greatly appreciate.

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Book Review: Braidy Von Althuis And The Dastardly Djinn By Cassidy Dwelis

22/12/2018Cassidy Dwelis, Children's Fiction, Fantasy, Middle-Grade, SupernaturalLeave a Comment

Author: Cassidy DwelisRelease Date: 30th October 2018
Genre: Middle-Grade, Fantasy, Supernatural
Series: Braidy Von Althuis #3
Edition: e-book
Pages: 228
Publisher: Precursor Publishing
Blurb:
“He should have known this would happen. Wishes in movies and books seemed to go bad, so why would this one be any different?”
Ten-year-old Braidy von Althuis misses his family dearly. Ever since his father, his aunt, and his uncle went to look for Gran in Europe, the house has been quiet and lonely. Even worse, Braidy’s cousin Blockhead is miserable after a breakup. Braidy wishes more than anything that he could do something to make his cousin happy. His wish is granted by a mysterious djinni, but the wish does not solve all his problems. Something is wrong with Blockhead, and Braidy learns a dark secret about his family that changes everything he knew. Will Braidy and Blockhead be able to undo the djinni wish, or will Braidy spark a war that may change the world as he knows it? Braidy von Althuis and the Dastardly Djinn is a story about identity, self-worth, consent, and responsibility.
This book is suitable for children aged 8 – 11.

Review

★★★★

Braidy Von Althuis And The Dastardly Djinn by Cassidy Dwelis is the sequel to Braidy Von Althuis And The Gullible Ghost Hunter. I had a bit of a complaint from the last part because of the absence of a character, but this book totally made up for everything because this part focused mainly on Braidy and Blockhead, Braidy’s cousin. So I really, really enjoyed this book (as much as I did the first one, Braidy Von Althuis And The Pesky Pest Controller.)

The story in this book starts where the last one left off and the plot progressed further featuring Braidy on yet another adventure, this one, again, a little bigger and better. Reading about the familiar characters felt so good and in no time I was there living the plot myself right beside Braidy. I loved this book and I’m looking forward to reading more books (especially in this series, if the author plans to continue) by the author.

I’d recommend this book to all middle-graders and to their parents and siblings and friends alike because this book has so much to offer that anyone could enjoy it.

this review is also posted on Goodreads and Amazon

Audiobook Review: Rebecca Of Sunnybrook Farm by Kate Douglas Wiggin

30/08/2018Children's Fiction, Classics, Kate Douglas Wiggin3 Comments

Author: Kate Douglas Wiggin
Narrator: Ann Richardson
Release Date: 8th December 2017
Genre: Classic, Children’s Fiction
Series: –
Length: 8 hours 11 minutes
Publisher: Post Hypnotic Press Inc.⎮2018
Blurb:
Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm has delighted readers for over 100 years. Published in 1903, when girls were inevitably depicted as pretty, gentle and proper, Rebecca Rowena Randall burst onto the scene of children’s literature. Sent to live with her prim and proper Aunt Miranda, who is expecting her much more demure sister, Rebecca is a “bird of a very different feather”. She has “a small, plain face illuminated by a pair of eyes carrying such messages, such suggestions, such hints of sleeping power and insight, that one never tired of looking into their shining depths….” To her Aunt Miranda’s continual dismay, Rebecca is exuberant, irrepressible, and spirited – not at all “proper” or “demure”. She wins over her aunt soon enough, and the whole town, and thousands of readers and listeners everywhere.
In 1904, author Jack London wrote Kate Douglas Wiggin: “May I thank you for Rebecca?…. I would have quested the wide world over to make her mine, only I was born too long ago and she was born but yesterday…. Why could she not have been my daughter? Why couldn’t it have been I who bought the three hundred cakes of soap? Why, O, why?” And Mark Twain called Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm “beautiful and warm and satisfying”. This recording, narrated by Ann Richardson, whose sweet voice has a facility for accents and character voices, is a satisfying listening experience you’ll want to revisit. Upcoming from Post Hypnotic Press is a new annotated print/eBook edition of this book, with illustrations from the original publication and a new introduction, as well as a work-book f…

Review

★★★★

Rebecca Of Sunnybrook Farm by Kate Douglas Wiggin and narrated by Ann Richardson is a beautiful audiobook that is a must read (must-listen?) for everyone.

It is a beautifully sweet book with a lovely young girly-girl character at its heart who will win your heart by the end of the first chapter itself. Unlike many other readers, I have not yet read Anne of the Green Gables (a reference I came across in many reviews for this book while deciding whether to accept this book for review or not) so I can’t offer any comparison, though what I can say is that this is a very thorough book full of moral lessons and hearty anecdotes of a time that is long gone and is always remembered. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this book because of the colourful narration which was fun to listen to.

I’d recommend this audiobook to everyone who loves reading (or more specifically, who loves listening to audiobooks.)

This Review Is Also Posted On Audible and Goodreads

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Book Review: Horatio And The Fear Of Dying by J.D. Oldenburg

08/10/201714/11/2017Children's Fiction, J.D. Oldenburg, Magic5 Comments

Author: J.D. Oldenburg
Release Date: 4th October 2017
Genre: Children’s Fiction
Edition: Audiobook
Pages: 13 minutes
Publisher: J.D. Oldenburg Publishing

Blurb:

Once upon a time… a brave boy named Horatio challenged and conquered Death, dawning everlasting life over his Kingdom. But as life and death are in love, one without the other became joyless. Soon,

Horatio must mend the cycle he has broken. Horatio And The Fear Of Dying was inspired by Jim Henson’s adaptation of the famous 1850s Russian Folktale, The Soldier And Death.

Review

★★★★★

Horatio And The Fear Of Dying by J.D. Oldenburg is a coming of age children’s book which will absolutely blow your mind with its brilliant storyline, amazing narration and a beautiful message for children and adults alike.

This book not only teaches its readers how to get over their fear of death/dying or of anything that seems scary but it also successfully teaches the importance of relationships in one’s life. I had a chance to see some of the illustrations that’d be going in the illustrated edition of this book, and I must admit that they were beyond amazing!

I’d recommend this book to every parent and all the children who love reading or listening to stories as this can possibly be one of the best children’s book you might come across these days.

More from the author:
- Author Interview: J.D. Oldenburg #authorinterview

Graphic Novel Review: Nina The Neighborhood Ninja by Sonia Panigrahy

26/03/201718/05/2017Children's Fiction, Sonia PanigrahyLeave a Comment

Author: Sonia Panigrahy
Illustrator: Hazel Quintanilla
Release Date: 2nd November 2016
Genre: Children’s Book | Illustrated | Graphic Novella
Edition: Ebook
Pages: 44
Publisher: –

Rating: ★★★★

Blurb:

Nina’s a girl who takes charge. She uses her brain and her muscles to complete rescue missions. She doesn’t mind getting dirty and climbing trees. It’s all part of the life of the everyday girl superhero. Young readers are encouraged to recognize that the traits of being smart, strong, and speedy exist within themselves. Young girls will find this book to be a positive affirmation that they too can be superheroes.

Review

Nina The Neighborhood Ninja by Sonia Panigrahy is a delightful read that teaches young children, especially girls, to be a super-hero in their own worlds in their own way.

I rarely read children’s books, but when I was asked to review this title, I simply couldn’t say no. Look at the cover, who can say no to that cute face?!

The book is so adorable that it stole my heart right from the first page and made me smile with each and every turn of the page. Nina is a normal kid who does extraordinary things and has super powers, the best one being her kindness. She teaches kids to be their best self and to do their best to help others in whatever little way they can.

The illustrations are equally beautiful and I’m sure that this book will be quite visually appealing to children.

I’d recommend this book to all the parents who have young children, especially for their little girls. Nina is one superhero you wouldn’t want your child to miss.

Goodreads and Amazon

Picture Book Review: The Most Magnificent Thing

08/04/201605/04/2016Ashley Spires, Book Reviews (by Genre), Books Reviews (by Author), Children's Fiction, Picture Book2 Comments

Author: Ashley Spires
Release Date:March 31, 2016
Series: –
Genre: Suspense, Thriller, Mystery, Speculative Fiction
Edition: Paperback
Pages: 250
Publisher: Obsidian Dawn
Source: Author
Buy it here: Amazon

Rating: ★★★★★

Blurb:

A warning from a stranger.
“Nothing you know is real. Your name isn’t Shawn Jaffe, you’re not an investment broker, and you’re not from Ohio.”
But the stranger is murdered before he can explain.
Now Shawn isn’t sure who he can trust.
Even his own memories are suspect.
Someone is watching him, controlling him, using him.
To survive, he’ll need to find out who and why.
But the stakes are much higher than one man.
Our humanity is on the line, and on the eighth day, it could be the beginning of the end.

Review

The Most Magnificient Thing is indeed the most magnificent thing I’ve read in the last few months. This book is utterly adorable and so cutesy that you’ll fall in love with this book as soon as you’ll open it. It has a unique feel good factor that really touches the heart as you follow this cute “regular girl” on her journey to create the most MAGNIFICIENT thing.

The illustrations are simply beautiful and elegant and they look really precious. The color-scheme of the book is simply stunning and quite soothing to the eyes (considering this book is for children.) I loved the concept the simplicity of the story and the wit that the author included in this beautiful story skillfully.

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The simplicity of the story and the concept is something that made this picture book a special read.

If you have a child, or even if you don’t, you really, really need to get this book! It’s the most adorable thing I’ve ever seen ❤

Bookstagram

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You can also read this review at Goodreads and Amazon.

Comic Book Review: Apocalypse Meow Meow (ARC)

16/10/2015Book Reviews (by Genre), Children's Fiction, Comics/Graphic Novels, Post Apocalypse5 Comments

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Author: James Proimos III 
Illustrator: James Proimos Jr.
Release Date: 3rd November, 2015 (I received an ARC)
Series: -
Genre: Children's Fiction | Comics | Post Apocalypse
Edition: ascm file
Pages: 224
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA CHildrens
Distributer: 
Source: NetGalley

Blurb

Brownie, Apollo, and their ragtag group of strays have raided the grocery store and defeated some very mean mutts–but now they’ve run out of food. So when the crew discovers a nearby Twonkies factory, and all the Twonkies they could ever eat, they think they’ve got it made.

The only catch is the cat guarding the factory–and this “cat” is MUCH bigger, and far more sophisticated, than any feline they’ve ever met. Can the dogs and their friends defeat their foe and claim the Twonkies for themselves?

The Proimos father-son team returns with another irreverent, dog-filled take on the apocalypse, told in a graphic novel paper-over-board format. The instantly accessible artwork and laughs on each page will charm everyone from the most reluctant reader to the coolest of cats (humans and animals alike)!

Rating

4-stars

Review

description
I had a good laugh reading this comic and would definitely read the other books in the same series.

The book started brilliantly and I adored all the dogs and the cat (meow.) I really enjoyed the quirkiness and the cuteness of the plot and the characters. I absolutely loved the whole thing about the “Twonkies” (with a capital T) and the nude dude.
description
It’s a funny book and that’s what I was expecting from it, so it delivered what it promised and considering that it’s a children’s book, I can’t expect anything more from it.

Having said that, i did feel that the end could have been a little different or a page sooner.
Originally I wanted to give this one a 5-star rating, but before I did I found out that the other books in this comic-series are far funnier than this one, so I thought of giving it a 4-star for now. If later, after reading the other books, I’ll feel that it deserves an added star or half, then I’ll definitely update my review. But for now I think 4-star rating is perfect.

description
Aww… isin’t he adorable!? ❤

You can also read this review at Goodreads.

Book Review: Delilah Dusticle

09/08/201524/07/2015Reviews By Contributors3 Comments

Author: A.J. York
Release Date: June 1^st 2014
Series: Delilah Dusticle
Genre: Children’s Fantasy
Edition: mobi
Pages: 96
Publisher: Self-Published
Source: Author
Buy it here: Amazon

Blurb

Delilah Dusticle has special powers. She can completely eradicate dust. With her quiver pouch of special dusters, Delilah can run up walls, reaching places others just can’t. As a maid in the Fenchurch-Whittington house, Delilah’s unusual skills soon lead to her being promoted to Chief Dust Eradicator and Remover. Until one day, when a broken heart leads to her powers taking an expected turn.

This is the first book in a quirky middle grade fantasy series. The story entices the reader into a new and magical world that appeals to both kids and adults. The reader can explore how the ordinary in life can be extraordinarily overlooked, how friendship can help you overcome life’s difficulties and how accepting yourself is the biggest challenge of all.

Rating

Review

Plot/Story:

This is an adorable story about a woman who has a special power to eradicate dust. She gets her heart broken, loses her job, and instead of getting rid of dust, she creates dust. It is a story about digging yourself out of the dark hole you have put yourself in. It’s about not fearing what is ahead of you and not to fear to try new things. It’s also a story about how important friends can be.

If I had kids, I would read this story to them at least once a week. It is such an adorable story and magical.

Delilah reminds me of a character from my own childhood, Amelia Bedelia.

Characters:

I love Delilah. She is a very talented woman who, throughout the story, learns to value herself.

Romance/Kills:

No death and I like it that way. Romance. There is a slight hint of romance, but nothing overly romantic.

Writing:

I love the writing. It’s very well edited and it would be easy for a child just learning to read. Which, I am assuming is A.J. Yorks main goal.

Beginning:

The beginning is just the start of a magical ride through the world of Delilah. You won’t be able to close the book until you have finished it.

Ending:

The ending was fantastic. It was a happy ending and the only kind of ending you would expect from such an adorable story.

Cover Art:

The cover art is so adorable.

Blurb:

The blurb makes Delilah sound like a ninja maid…and I love it! The blurb is perfect.

You can also read this review at Goodreads and Amazon.

Other Stuff

Opening Line: Delilah Dusticle began working for the Fenchurch-Whittington family at the age of sixteen.

Highlights: It is an adorable story that people of all ages can enjoy.

Lowlights: There is nothing wrong with this story.

Final Thoughts: This should be in every school classroom.

Review contributor:

Heather Mostella:

I’m a reader, writer, dreamer, and crafter. I like to create things and I love to see what others create. I avoid reality as much as possible, and often pretend I’m a vampire. I also own a group of black cats, so my neighbors think I’m a witch and I’m okay with that. I am a fan girl.

I love shows like Doctor Who, Supernatural, and Grimm. I love anime and dream of one day going to Japan. I just like to have fun, enjoy life, and do what makes me happy.

Book Review: The Slapstyx

29/07/201529/07/2015Reviews By Contributors9 Comments

Author: Annabelle Franklin
Release Date: February 18th 2015
Series: February 17, 2015
Genre: Children's Fiction
Edition: mobi
Pages: 2844
Publisher: Pearlswood Publishing
Source: Author
Buy it here: Amazon

Blurb

With the help of the grubby Slapstyx goblins, dastardly detergent manufacturer Zachary Zigstack is turning the oceans into toxic slime infested with ravenous sea monsters.
Twin sisters Georgie and Gem can leave their bodies at will and explore other dimensions – which means they can spy on the Slapstyx and find a way to stop them. But can they do it before all the sea creatures are destroyed? The Slapstyx are dangerous as well as dirty, and have nasty ways of killing people who cross them…

Rating

Review

Plot/Story:

The magical dirt and dust goblins invade their home and the adult will not believe the twins (Georgie and Gem) so it’s up to them to fight these magical creatures. I love the humor behind this story and how the story tells us about cleaning product and their real effect on our surroundings, but in a very light and magical story.

Characters:

The characters are well written and developed, the twins are very determined and loyal and the villain here is Zachary Zigstack who tries to destroy the sea, he is a very nicely written villain.

Writing:

To be completely honest, I wasn’t expecting to love this book much, as it is written for 8 years old kids, but I did. I loved reading this book a lot. This book reminded me a lot of Dr. Sue’s wonderful imaginary aspects. The author Annabelle made it so easy for me to fall in love with the story and the character and I loved that she kept it age appropriate, but still a very fun read for adults as well.

Beginning:

The story start with the villain as we learn more about him and his star product and from there on it was a very fast read. We learn about the family and the main characters (The twins) and from the second chapter life as they know it had change completely.

Ending:

The book ends with a very satisfying way and with a yummy dinner 😉 I will leave it at that

Cover Art:

Let’s talk cover… The cover is so beautiful and fun and you could tell from the picture of what the book is going to be.

Blurb:

The blurb was the second thing that attracted me to pick this book. It sounded fun and light and describes the book just about right.

You can also read this review at Goodreads and Amazon.

Other Stuff

Opening Line: “Zachary Zigstack was a big businessman – big, fat, and very, very greedy.”

Lowlights: None.

Final Thoughts: I want to dream-walk as well ❤ Read the book to learn what Slapstyx is… Or who 🙂

Review contributor:

Galit Balli

I am an avid reader, coffee addict, a writer and a blogger. I am a bit of agoraphobic (people scare me, lol). Me and my hubby love to spend every moment together, we even game together.

I live mostly in my own imaginary world full of dragons, magic and vampires and from time to time I pull myself away to deal with the real world.

Book Review: Eliza Bluebell

07/06/201524/06/2015Reviews By Contributors2 Comments

Author: A.J. York 
Release Date: December 18, 2014
Series: None
Genre: Children’s Fantasy
Edition: Kindle (mobi)
Pages: 92
Publisher: 
Source: Author
Buy it here: Amazon

Continue reading ➞ Book Review: Eliza Bluebell

Book Review: My Wizard Buddy (My Wizard Buddy #1)

11/05/201503/06/2015Reviews By Contributors3 Comments

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Author: Scott Spotson and Brian Wu
Release: July 10th, 2014
Series: My Wizard Buddy
Genre: Children’s Fantasy
Edition: Kindle
Pages: 1228
Publisher: Self-published
Source: Author (Thanks Scott!)
Buy it here: Amazon

Continue reading ➞ Book Review: My Wizard Buddy (My Wizard Buddy #1)

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