Peter's mom does nothing but watch TV all day, and his dad (Ba) seems to be a serious, fun-sucking parent. They weren't always this way though. Through a mutual love of baseball, the family starts to knit back together after trauma.

Lightly historical fiction.

I'd give this one a 3.5. I found it to be a bit overwhelming with the maps of the NYC Subway (aka, I found that part tricky to read) but I think it's a good overview of how there are different ways to arrive at the same destination, as well as the brief look at how the NYC subway system came to be.

For me, I put this book down because I was tired of the constant focus on marriage, but the real kicker was Rapunzel's almost instant ability to read. At a time when I'm trying to read for MSBA, I can't see myself recommending a book where someone seems to go from not recognizing letters to reading words in less than an hour. I might return to it later, but at the moment, I'm letting it go.

I liked it. Felt a little long to me in places, but overall, I loved this glimpse into a Kate Middleton-like life.

I quite liked this story about a slave who struggled to learn how to read. It was also interesting to see how he lived in "freedom" without actually being free, because his owner refused to sell him. I especially liked the illustrations.

I really enjoyed this one, and think it's an essential read for everyone. I want to hand it out like Oprah hands out cars.

Mixed feelings on this one. I was very involved in the story, and about why Jack chose to leave his baseball team. I really liked the way Cassie was included, and how there was lighthearted joking about boys vs. girls, but really everyone was in awe of her talent. She is also shown having both female and male friends, which I also liked. However, I thought Jack's coaching of Teddy to be a little too much. I mean, yes, Teddy went along with it, but why can't it be okay for someone to not be into baseball in this baseball town? Why was it so important to Jack that Teddy love it too?

Rachel and Andy meet by chance in a hospital when they are eight years old. Life cycles them together and apart over the next few years. It's pretty good. I thought the ending was a bit abrupt but happy.

I liked it. I now feel I have an idea of what the series is like and can go on to enjoy the TV show.

I quite enjoyed this one. I can't wait to see where the series goes, and to learn more about Norse mythology from Riordan's perspective.