I have a love/hate relationship with Gilda, and I’m self-aware enough to know that this is because I see myself in her. Be wary of the many content warnings - this story touches on many topics that I thought I had sorted and stored properly but I still ended up crying by the end. 

Gilda is unlikeable in the most relatable way. I never want to be Gilda, again. I wonder if Gilda will ever be Gilda, again. I hope not - she deserves to grow.

While I originally picked up the paperback from my library and borrowed the audiobook from Libby, I immediately added it to my “must buy books” list so that I can add it to my own bookshelf. I also lent the paperback to my mom, since it’s not due for another week. I hope she reads it, I hope she understands why it leaves an impact.

I had originally bought this book at a garage sale years ago and it stayed on my bookshelf, unread, for the longest time. Recently, I listened to a podcast that dove into the beanie baby craze and it sparked my interest. I half read the hardcover and half listened to  the audiobook (from my library - libby), and finished it quickly! Very interesting and well written, the book covers the entire journey in a witty way. Fun, and niche read!

When I reached 88% of the book and realized that it wasn't over even though it felt very satisfying to me, I knew that we were in for a twist that I didn't necessarily want. The story overall was fantastic and dreamy and I'm aware that I will never feel love like how these two characters did - deep and deranged and dangerous. It was beautiful to read and experience and the science fiction/time-traveling aspect wasn't nearly as daunting as I had expected (thank goodness!!).

Oh, my one true love, Haikyuu!! Absolutely heartbreaking volume but the

eating scene after they lose

is so heartwarming and hopeful!!!

The way that I loved this??? It was completely enchanting and adorable and I am shocked that I never read it as a child. The journey between worlds told through the perspective of two children (and an assortment of adults - and one VERY cool horse) is wonderfully refreshing. I'm excited to pick up the next in the series, chronologically! 

I'm so sorry besties, I really wanted to enjoy this because I've only heard good but god damn?? This was Boring with a capital B. The idea is top tier - it has all the elements that should make it a 5-star read. But holy cannoli, the writing was so slow and so dry and I couldn't get into any of the characters' heads or hearts. They felt very 2D. The only reason I'm even considering picking up book 2 is because of the setting. It just has so much potential!! 

Such a good “ending” :) can’t wait to pick up the next volume!

My skin absolutely crawled. I felt my heart breaking. While reading, this non-fiction memoir transported me into a very fictional world -- almost surreal. Listening to the audiobook was almost like an out-of-body experience. After returning it to the library, I immediately bought a copy for my bookshelf.