This dense book is one of those that I liked, but didn't love. Set in 19th century India, it definitely explored some aspects of history that I know very little about. And there were some great characters. But it's also one of those books that never quite grabbed me. I'm glad I finished, but I also don't have much desire to read the sequel (even though the ending of Sea of Poppies is a bit of a cliffhanger).

Rather enjoyed this mystery set in post-Civil War Boston. A governess with a mysterious past, the after-effects of the War and opium. I'm not sure how I ended up reading two books about opium at the same time, but sometimes things work out that way.

A fun historical fiction novel about the rougher side of London. Lots of mysterious folks and adventures. But, I do wish it was a bit shorter and it really seemed like it took forever for the kids to clue in. I liked the ending enough to look for the sequel at the library, but they don't have it.

A great addition to the World War II canon of first-person memoirs. Complete review here: http://kidlithistory.com/2013/01/08/home-front-girl-a-review/

First, I totally get why so many folks are not liking this book. It's dark, there aren't a lot of likable characters, and there's definitely no magic.

And yet. . .I couldn't stop thinking about the issues and people of Pagford. She tears away the layers of a seemingly beautiful, perfect town. Rowling is definitely trying to Say Something, and I think I'm okay with that. It's a harsher, more modern version of the kind of book Persephone so likes to publish--a character driven exploration of society.

I didn't love it, and I know I won't read it again. But Rowling knows how to tell a story, and I'm glad she wrote something so radically different than the tales that made her fortune.

A delightful conclusion to a delightful series. I really felt like this series just kept getting better and better--one of my favorite aspects is that Frederick gives plenty of attention, sympathy and action to the adults in this circle.

And a confession: I read the acknowledgments first and was delighted to see so many familiar names and even be a part of those acknowledgments (not by name, but by very important bookish group!).

It took me a little while to get into this one, but I grew to really love Fire, her complicated history, and how everyone was dealing with the coming war. Will definitely be reading Bitterblue soon.

Sometimes, you just need some gossipy history. And that's exactly what this is: lots of name dropping, but also lots of context-setting. Another example of a moment in time that probably can never be repeated.

I just wish there were a few more pictures!