ellemnope's Reviews (2.4k)

4.5 stars. El Deafo is an adorable middle grade graphic memoir. It is both sad and sweet with a good story of resilience. The illustrations are super cute. There is a lot to learn from this story about friendship, compassion, and empathy. I appreciated that the author was clear to state at the end of her book that her personal experience is not one that represents the entire deaf community and that her opinions and actions with regard to her deafness were very much personal. I did struggle a little bit with her attitude as a child, but embraced the fact that this was her story and children do not always react in the way that we think they might...or have the opinion that they should. I appreciated the honesty even though I felt that some messages could have been more strongly brought across with some alteration to the protagonist.

Review to come

4.5 stars. Review to come.

4.5 stars. Review to come.

Review to come.

4.5 stars. Review to come.

This was my second attempt on this book and I only made it through because I went with the audio. The story itself is good and the premise has merit, but the execution just rubbed me the wrong way. The writing style is not quite my speed, the language is just a bit too crude (in a way that felt unnecessary and absolutely superfluous), and the organizational structure is a bit rough. I did enjoy the historical aspects and would like to read more on the history of the Dominican Republic, I just struggled with the flow on this one. Can neither recommend nor condemn. I can see the value in the story, it just didn't jive with my personal preferences in terms of style.

4.5 stars. This is a cute middle grade with magical elements and an admittedly similar take to things as Harry Potter. Some readers may find this a turn off, but for me it was still a good time and a fun read. Who would've known that I'd enjoy an elvish novel so much? I never would have guessed. This is why I have so much fun when I've totally forgotten the premise of a book by the time I pick it up off my TBR shelf. Being absent-minded has its plusses. It's in lower age range of middle grade reads, so the sophistication of the writing is a bit low, but that made for a quick and light read that hit the spot. It's not a book to take overly seriously and that gave me all the whimsical feels. Will I be continuing this series? You betcha! Will I be recommending it for middle grade readers? Absofreakinglutely. Good times, people. Good times.

An emotional middle grade read that was so well written. This one hurt my heart on so many levels, but it was just so good. A great exploration of grief and finding one's identity. There is discussion on family relationships, race, sexuality, and abuse. It is hard-hitting for sure. This is a great and powerful middle grade read that is incredibly important. Kacen Callender is a brilliant writer and has the ability to come across well regardless of the audience being addressed.

Review to come.