endless_tbr_list's Reviews (537)

As a lifelong fan of the folktales, mythology, and straight up ghost stories, I was so excited to dive into Freaky Folklore! Comprised of a collection of stories from around the world - including Latin America's La Llorona, the Strzyga of Poland and Ukraine, the Tokoloshe of South Africa, and the Philippines' Manananggal, to name a few. This book introduces the reader to many well known creatures and cryptids, as well as a few that might not be as familiar. 

Entries are paired with a colorful illustration of the monster, as well as a short fictionalized encounter. I appreciated the number of creatures included in this work, but I would have loved to see more background and a longer story for each entry. Perhaps even stories of actual encounters? Though a fun addition, the fictionalized tales were often a bit too short to build up any true terror or horror, and ended up feeling flat. 

Freaky Folklore is a broad, though not exhaustive, compilation of monsters and their tales from a variety of different cultures. While an interesting concept for a book, I do wish it had lived up to it's claim of "terrifying tales." 

Thank you to Wellfleet Press and NetGalley for the digital ARC in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are my own. 

Et Cetera: An Illustrated Guide to Latin Phrases is a delightfully fascinating, 5 star read! 

Well paced and flowing seamlessly through each section, Maia Lee-Chin explores fifty enduring Latin Phrases, delving into not only their meaning, but also their origin. Covering topics including love, mythology, power, and philosophy, this collection introduces the reader to a range of individuals, from salves all the way up to Rome's elite. While many phrases may initially be unfamiliar, there are also those that remain in use even today, and together they give a glimpse into the lives and minds of individuals long past. 

Finally, it would be remiss not to mention the book's beautiful artwork, from it's cover to the images weaved throughout. Paired with each entry are Marta Bertello's gorgeous illustrations, carefully accented with notes of red, these drawings serve to give additional depth and detail to the phrases they represent. 

Thank you to Andrews McMeel Publishing and NetGalley for the digital ARC in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are my own. 

No Latin proficiency required, Et Cetera is out August 2024!