At once fresh and new as well as like a warm hug from an old friend to those of us who grew up on Tamora Pierce and the like. This story reads as if an unhinged tumbler post writing prompt was taken in several different directions at once, and then stirred with lovely badass warrior woman vibes. 

Delightfully creepy, from being set in a mysterious mansion in the creepy dark forest to the to the little side stories about the strange abilities and pasts of the quirky characters. Gotta love a smart child saving all the grownups from their stupidity, as well.

LOVED all the plot turns, as well as the further deep dives into the essential question of what defines personhood. 

This is a sweet if simplified picture of adoption, with a gentle nod towards the trauma adoptees experience. Though the author's note suggests reading books written by adoptees, this author herself is an adoptive parent and the book is told form the point of view of the biological kid, not the adopted one. So on those counts I wouldn't make this a first pick, but not the last either. 

Very moving portrait of Black family farm, and the ways in which they support the community, and the community supports them in return. 

I had to read it and see what it was because I love Sendak, but I can see why this book is posthumously published. There honestly just isn't a lot there. One Was Johnny is worlds better along the same lines, this is spare and feels unfinished. Which in fact, it was. 

I deeply relate to this oldest sister, as she tries to keep her siblings safe and out of mischief. 

Another lovely installment in the Murderbot series. And this one advances the overarching plotline! 

Normally I would love a book like this, but it's so hell bent on being lyrical, that I don't think it would make any actual sense to children. Sigh. The recipes in the back do look tempting though. 

A solid addition to the now popular field of consent books. I like how it depicts having to go to multiple adults before receiving any useful advice, which feels true to life.