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2.51k reviews by:
popthebutterfly
adventurous
dark
emotional
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Disclaimer: I received this e-arc and finished copy from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne
Author: Jonathan Stroud
Book Series: The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne Book 1
Rating: 5/5
Recommended For...: dystopian, young adult readers, apocalyptic
Publication Date: April 1, 2021
Genre: YA Dystopian
Recommended Age: 15+ (animal death, death, violence, gore, medical experiments/torture)
Explanation of CWs: There is an animal death shown in the book. There is violence and gore. There is also some medical experiments/torture shown.
Publisher: Walker Books
Pages: 400
Synopsis: Set in a fragmented future England, The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne introduces us to a world where gunfights and monsters collide, and where the formidable outlaw Scarlett McCain fights daily against the odds. When she discovers a wrecked coach on a lonely road, there is only one survivor – the seemingly hapless youth, Albert Browne. Against her instincts, Scarlett agrees to escort him to safety. This is a mistake. Soon, new and implacable enemies are on her heels. As a relentless pursuit continues across the broken landscape of England, Scarlett must fight to uncover the secrets of Albert’s past – and come to terms with the implications of her own.
Review: Overall, this was a great book! I loved the dystopian world in this book. It’s probably one of my faves now! I loved the character development and the world building was also well done. The book had an interesting premise and it hooked me immediately. I also loved how well written the book was overall.
The only issue I had with the book is that sometimes it was a bit slow in the pacing, but overall it was very well done.
Verdict: I loved it!
Book: The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne
Author: Jonathan Stroud
Book Series: The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne Book 1
Rating: 5/5
Recommended For...: dystopian, young adult readers, apocalyptic
Publication Date: April 1, 2021
Genre: YA Dystopian
Recommended Age: 15+ (animal death, death, violence, gore, medical experiments/torture)
Explanation of CWs: There is an animal death shown in the book. There is violence and gore. There is also some medical experiments/torture shown.
Publisher: Walker Books
Pages: 400
Synopsis: Set in a fragmented future England, The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne introduces us to a world where gunfights and monsters collide, and where the formidable outlaw Scarlett McCain fights daily against the odds. When she discovers a wrecked coach on a lonely road, there is only one survivor – the seemingly hapless youth, Albert Browne. Against her instincts, Scarlett agrees to escort him to safety. This is a mistake. Soon, new and implacable enemies are on her heels. As a relentless pursuit continues across the broken landscape of England, Scarlett must fight to uncover the secrets of Albert’s past – and come to terms with the implications of her own.
Review: Overall, this was a great book! I loved the dystopian world in this book. It’s probably one of my faves now! I loved the character development and the world building was also well done. The book had an interesting premise and it hooked me immediately. I also loved how well written the book was overall.
The only issue I had with the book is that sometimes it was a bit slow in the pacing, but overall it was very well done.
Verdict: I loved it!
adventurous
dark
emotional
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Disclaimer: I received this e-arc from the author. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Sacaran Nights
Author: Rachel Emma Shaw
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Diversity: Asexual side character
Recommended For...: dark fantasy, dystopian, new adult readers
Publication Date: October 28, 2021
Genre: NA Dystopian Dark Fantasy
Recommended Age: 14+ (violence, gore, parental death)
Explanation of CWs: Some violence and gore. There’s also death
Publisher: Self Published
Pages: 330
Synopsis: Legacy is everything in Sacara. Those few who inherit live only to keep theirs alive, protecting the ghosts of their ancestors from the corruption seeping into every corner of the city.
Dagner longs to leave - to create a legacy for himself and see the world beyond - but he is trapped by an inheritance that was never meant to be his. When a figure from his past returns to claim the legacy Dagner has sworn to protect, he must decide if he will forge his own path, or stay and make the sacrifices needed to save the city of the dead.
Review: I really liked this book overall. The book had well developed characters and world building. The book is unique and something I don’t think I’ve read before. The book is also well plotted and the book hooks you in within a few chapters.
However, I did think that some of the book was confusing. There’s a lot of information about the fungi and it gets confusing to keep them separated in your mind without using the guide. The beginning is also a little off-putting as it’s very confusing and chaotic.
Verdict: It was good!
Book: Sacaran Nights
Author: Rachel Emma Shaw
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Diversity: Asexual side character
Recommended For...: dark fantasy, dystopian, new adult readers
Publication Date: October 28, 2021
Genre: NA Dystopian Dark Fantasy
Recommended Age: 14+ (violence, gore, parental death)
Explanation of CWs: Some violence and gore. There’s also death
Publisher: Self Published
Pages: 330
Synopsis: Legacy is everything in Sacara. Those few who inherit live only to keep theirs alive, protecting the ghosts of their ancestors from the corruption seeping into every corner of the city.
Dagner longs to leave - to create a legacy for himself and see the world beyond - but he is trapped by an inheritance that was never meant to be his. When a figure from his past returns to claim the legacy Dagner has sworn to protect, he must decide if he will forge his own path, or stay and make the sacrifices needed to save the city of the dead.
Review: I really liked this book overall. The book had well developed characters and world building. The book is unique and something I don’t think I’ve read before. The book is also well plotted and the book hooks you in within a few chapters.
However, I did think that some of the book was confusing. There’s a lot of information about the fungi and it gets confusing to keep them separated in your mind without using the guide. The beginning is also a little off-putting as it’s very confusing and chaotic.
Verdict: It was good!
adventurous
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Disclaimer: I received this e-arc from the author. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: The Horror Film Killer
Author: Michael J. Bowler
Book Series: A Film Milieu Thriller Book 2
Rating: 5/5
Recommended For...: horror lovers, mystery, thriller, slasher film lovers
Publication Date: October 26, 2021
Genre: Mystery Thriller Horror
Recommended Age: 17+ (violence, gore, murder)
Explanation of CWs: It’s a slasher film/book so lots of violence, gore, and murder.
Publisher: Michael J. Bowler Publishing
Pages: 184
Synopsis: What would you do if someone acted out—for real— the kill scenes from your student-made horror film?
That’s the dilemma facing high school seniors Cassie and Donovan. Best friends, aspiring filmmakers, and hopeful romantic partners, they set out to complete a feature-length horror film as a graduation project for their performing arts high school. Using actors and crew from among their classmates, they aim to finish the bulk of shooting over Spring Break. When several murders occur not far from their locations—each one recreating a specific “kill” scene from their script—they suddenly find themselves embroiled in a real-life horror movie neither of them bargained for.
Cassie’s police officer dad and his ex-girlfriend—a homicide detective Cassie once hoped would be her stepmom—allow the film shoot to continue because the killer has threatened to murder Donovan’s mother if they stop. Traps are set and arrests are made, but the killer—who might be a member of the cast or crew—is one step ahead of their every move.
Can Cassie and Donovan help the police unmask the psychopath before more people die?
Review: I really liked this book! The book had a super interesting concept and while I’ve seen this concept before I really liked how the author wrote this one out. The book had well done character development and well done world building. I really liked the writing and the plot line as well.
The only issue I had is that I think some of the dialogue was too lengthy and wordy. I also thought that some of the pacing slowed down at times.
Verdict: It was good! Perfect for horror lovers.
Book: The Horror Film Killer
Author: Michael J. Bowler
Book Series: A Film Milieu Thriller Book 2
Rating: 5/5
Recommended For...: horror lovers, mystery, thriller, slasher film lovers
Publication Date: October 26, 2021
Genre: Mystery Thriller Horror
Recommended Age: 17+ (violence, gore, murder)
Explanation of CWs: It’s a slasher film/book so lots of violence, gore, and murder.
Publisher: Michael J. Bowler Publishing
Pages: 184
Synopsis: What would you do if someone acted out—for real— the kill scenes from your student-made horror film?
That’s the dilemma facing high school seniors Cassie and Donovan. Best friends, aspiring filmmakers, and hopeful romantic partners, they set out to complete a feature-length horror film as a graduation project for their performing arts high school. Using actors and crew from among their classmates, they aim to finish the bulk of shooting over Spring Break. When several murders occur not far from their locations—each one recreating a specific “kill” scene from their script—they suddenly find themselves embroiled in a real-life horror movie neither of them bargained for.
Cassie’s police officer dad and his ex-girlfriend—a homicide detective Cassie once hoped would be her stepmom—allow the film shoot to continue because the killer has threatened to murder Donovan’s mother if they stop. Traps are set and arrests are made, but the killer—who might be a member of the cast or crew—is one step ahead of their every move.
Can Cassie and Donovan help the police unmask the psychopath before more people die?
Review: I really liked this book! The book had a super interesting concept and while I’ve seen this concept before I really liked how the author wrote this one out. The book had well done character development and well done world building. I really liked the writing and the plot line as well.
The only issue I had is that I think some of the dialogue was too lengthy and wordy. I also thought that some of the pacing slowed down at times.
Verdict: It was good! Perfect for horror lovers.
adventurous
funny
inspiring
medium-paced
Disclaimer: I received this e-book from the author. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Secret of the Sea
Author: Malcolm Mejin
Book Series: Diary of a Rich Kid Book 3
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Asian MC and side characters
Recommended For...: children’s, sci-fi, graphic novel
Publication Date: August 2, 2021
Genre: Children’s Sci-Fi Graphic Novel
Recommended Age: 8+ (COVID and some scary moments)
Explanation of CWs: COVID is talked about in this book and there are some scary moments.
Publisher: Self Published
Pages: n/a
Synopsis: Robin and his friends’ world suddenly turns topsy-turvy when the coronavirus pandemic strikes. Being stuck at home during lockdown isn’t exactly the ideal vacation.
So when Robin gets a spectacular chance to go under the sea with his family and friends to escape the pandemic, things begin to perk up. A luxury super-submarine whisks Robin and his mates into the exciting wonders of the deep blue sea.
But the mysteries of the deep begin to unravel as they voyage into the dangerous unknown, where myths and secrets await …
Review: Another fun read by this author! I really liked this series overall, but this one was my favorite. I thought that the author did well to include the pandemic and recent occurrences in this read and I loved the messages about water pollution and how to protect yourself from the virus. I thought the character development was good and the world building was well done.
The only issue I really had with the book is that the pacing was a bit slow in some parts, but overall it was well done.
Verdict: I liked it!
Book: Secret of the Sea
Author: Malcolm Mejin
Book Series: Diary of a Rich Kid Book 3
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Asian MC and side characters
Recommended For...: children’s, sci-fi, graphic novel
Publication Date: August 2, 2021
Genre: Children’s Sci-Fi Graphic Novel
Recommended Age: 8+ (COVID and some scary moments)
Explanation of CWs: COVID is talked about in this book and there are some scary moments.
Publisher: Self Published
Pages: n/a
Synopsis: Robin and his friends’ world suddenly turns topsy-turvy when the coronavirus pandemic strikes. Being stuck at home during lockdown isn’t exactly the ideal vacation.
So when Robin gets a spectacular chance to go under the sea with his family and friends to escape the pandemic, things begin to perk up. A luxury super-submarine whisks Robin and his mates into the exciting wonders of the deep blue sea.
But the mysteries of the deep begin to unravel as they voyage into the dangerous unknown, where myths and secrets await …
Review: Another fun read by this author! I really liked this series overall, but this one was my favorite. I thought that the author did well to include the pandemic and recent occurrences in this read and I loved the messages about water pollution and how to protect yourself from the virus. I thought the character development was good and the world building was well done.
The only issue I really had with the book is that the pacing was a bit slow in some parts, but overall it was well done.
Verdict: I liked it!
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adventurous
funny
medium-paced
Disclaimer: I received this e-book from the author. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Road Trip
Author: Malcolm Mejin
Book Series: Diary of a Rich Kid Book 2
Rating: 4/5
Recommended For...: children’s readers, graphic novel, science fiction
Publication Date: April 5, 2021
Genre: Children’s Science Fiction Graphic Novel
Recommended Age: 8+ (some mayham and scary moments)
Explanation of CWs: Some chaotic moments. Also some scary moments.
Publisher: Self Published
Pages: n/a
Synopsis: A wild road trip adventure in the heart of Kuching that draws delighted laughter and endless excitement. Robin and his friends embark on a journey of amazing discovery where they explore delicious local food and breathtaking destinations. Their adventure takes a comedic turn when they encounter orangutans and proboscis monkeys in the wildlife. When their best friend mysteriously disappears, their road trip takes a swerve on rocky path of danger and suspense ...
Review: This was a fun read. Again, I liked where the characters were going and they were developed well. The story was well written and funny. I also liked the plot and it would be a fun read for middle graders.
However, I did think that the world building was too in depth for this book and it was a bit over the top. I also thought that the voice was a bit off in this book and it came off as someone imitating a middle grader.
Verdict: It was good!
adventurous
funny
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Disclaimer: I received this e-book from the author. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Diary of a Rich Kid
Author: Malcolm Mejin
Book Series: Diary of a Rich Kid
Rating: 4/5
Recommended For...: graphic novel, adventure, children’s readers, contemporary
Publication Date: April 5, 2021
Genre: Children’s Graphic Novel Contemporary hybrid
Recommended Age: 8+ (some mayham)
Explanation of CWs: Some small chaotic moments
Publisher: Self Published
Pages: not sure
Synopsis: HOW would your life be if you had so much money that it could fill the entire ocean? For Sarawakian Malcolm Mejin, he would travel all around the world in his private jet. He would also own the latest gadgets, the likes of which are so expensive that they could only be afforded by the wealthiest.
It’s such a good fantasy that Malcolm decided to pen it all down in his latest book, Diary of a Rich Kid, whose plot centres on a group of privileged, wealthy kids who lead the most lavish, extravagant lifestyle filled with excitement, suspense and adventure ― peppered with some humour.
Review: Overall, I thought this was a fun read. It read a lot like that old movie Richie Rich crossed with the Diary of a Wimpy Kid books. The book was funny and had good character development and world building. I also liked the plot of the story and it was well written.
However, the main character takes a little bit to like initially and a lot of the book focuses on the “issues” of this rich kid, which is unrealistic and unfathomable to a lot of kids, but after that the book was good.
Verdict: I loved it!
Book: Diary of a Rich Kid
Author: Malcolm Mejin
Book Series: Diary of a Rich Kid
Rating: 4/5
Recommended For...: graphic novel, adventure, children’s readers, contemporary
Publication Date: April 5, 2021
Genre: Children’s Graphic Novel Contemporary hybrid
Recommended Age: 8+ (some mayham)
Explanation of CWs: Some small chaotic moments
Publisher: Self Published
Pages: not sure
Synopsis: HOW would your life be if you had so much money that it could fill the entire ocean? For Sarawakian Malcolm Mejin, he would travel all around the world in his private jet. He would also own the latest gadgets, the likes of which are so expensive that they could only be afforded by the wealthiest.
It’s such a good fantasy that Malcolm decided to pen it all down in his latest book, Diary of a Rich Kid, whose plot centres on a group of privileged, wealthy kids who lead the most lavish, extravagant lifestyle filled with excitement, suspense and adventure ― peppered with some humour.
Review: Overall, I thought this was a fun read. It read a lot like that old movie Richie Rich crossed with the Diary of a Wimpy Kid books. The book was funny and had good character development and world building. I also liked the plot of the story and it was well written.
However, the main character takes a little bit to like initially and a lot of the book focuses on the “issues” of this rich kid, which is unrealistic and unfathomable to a lot of kids, but after that the book was good.
Verdict: I loved it!
dark
emotional
informative
medium-paced
Disclaimer: I received this arc from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: A Rebel in Auschwitz
Author: jack Fairweather
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Polish main character and Jewish side characters
Recommended For...: history, biography, world war 2, non-fiction
Publication Date: October 19, 2021
Genre: History/Biographical Read
Recommended Age: 15+ (war, violence, torture, slight gore, death, murder)
Explanation of CWs: I mean this book was set during World War II in Auschwitz, there’s a lot of graphic content that could be upsetting if you have never read or heard about WWII.
Publisher: Scholastic Focus
Pages: 352
Synopsis: Occupied Warsaw, Summer 1940:
Witold Pilecki, a Polish underground operative, accepted a mission to uncover the fate of thousands interned at a new concentration camp, report on Nazi crimes, raise a secret army, and stage an uprising. The name of the camp -- Auschwitz.
Over the next two and half years, and under the cruellest of conditions, Pilecki's underground sabotaged facilities, assassinated Nazi officers, and gathered evidence of terrifying abuse and mass murder. But as he pieced together the horrifying Nazi plans to exterminate Europe's Jews, Pilecki realized he would have to risk his men, his life, and his family to warn the West before all was lost. To do so meant attempting the impossible -- but first he would have to escape from Auschwitz itself...
Review: For the most part this was an emotional rollercoaster and read. The book was amazingly well written and I thought the book did well to show the horrors of WWII. The characters are well developed and the world building is amazingly well done. The book also did well pacing wise.
The only issue I had with the book is that I felt like if you’re unaware of the whole of WWII you might be disappointed in how all of the main players (that being the Allies, Soviets, and Polish underground) are portrayed, but the reader must remember that a lot of this book is taken from the true accounts of the main character and his writings.
Verdict: It was good!
Book: A Rebel in Auschwitz
Author: jack Fairweather
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Polish main character and Jewish side characters
Recommended For...: history, biography, world war 2, non-fiction
Publication Date: October 19, 2021
Genre: History/Biographical Read
Recommended Age: 15+ (war, violence, torture, slight gore, death, murder)
Explanation of CWs: I mean this book was set during World War II in Auschwitz, there’s a lot of graphic content that could be upsetting if you have never read or heard about WWII.
Publisher: Scholastic Focus
Pages: 352
Synopsis: Occupied Warsaw, Summer 1940:
Witold Pilecki, a Polish underground operative, accepted a mission to uncover the fate of thousands interned at a new concentration camp, report on Nazi crimes, raise a secret army, and stage an uprising. The name of the camp -- Auschwitz.
Over the next two and half years, and under the cruellest of conditions, Pilecki's underground sabotaged facilities, assassinated Nazi officers, and gathered evidence of terrifying abuse and mass murder. But as he pieced together the horrifying Nazi plans to exterminate Europe's Jews, Pilecki realized he would have to risk his men, his life, and his family to warn the West before all was lost. To do so meant attempting the impossible -- but first he would have to escape from Auschwitz itself...
Review: For the most part this was an emotional rollercoaster and read. The book was amazingly well written and I thought the book did well to show the horrors of WWII. The characters are well developed and the world building is amazingly well done. The book also did well pacing wise.
The only issue I had with the book is that I felt like if you’re unaware of the whole of WWII you might be disappointed in how all of the main players (that being the Allies, Soviets, and Polish underground) are portrayed, but the reader must remember that a lot of this book is taken from the true accounts of the main character and his writings.
Verdict: It was good!
emotional
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: How Do You Live?
Author: Genzaburo Yoshino , Bruno Navasky (Translator)
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Diversity: Japanese MC, side characters, and culture
Recommended For...: young adult readers, historical fiction
Publication Date: October 26, 2021
Genre: YA Historical Fiction
Recommended Age: 13+ (parent death mentioned)
Explanation of CWs: Parent death is mentioned.
Publisher: Algonquin Young Readers
Pages: 288
Synopsis: How Do You Live? is narrated in two voices. The first belongs to Copper, fifteen, who after the death of his father must confront inevitable and enormous change, including his own betrayal of his best friend. In between episodes of Copper’s emerging story, his uncle writes to him in a journal, sharing knowledge and offering advice on life’s big questions as Copper begins to encounter them. Over the course of the story, Copper, like his namesake Copernicus, looks to the stars, and uses his discoveries about the heavens, earth, and human nature to answer the question of how he will live.
Review: For the most part this was a great read. The book was so sweet and charming, as it focused on the questions a curious child might have at a young age. I thought the book was well written and that it had great character development.
However, I did think that some of the topics discussed (not mature ones, but like about philosophy and astrology) would be a bit over the head of some young audience members, but if they want to give it a shot who am I to judge?
Verdict: It’s good!
Book: How Do You Live?
Author: Genzaburo Yoshino , Bruno Navasky (Translator)
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Diversity: Japanese MC, side characters, and culture
Recommended For...: young adult readers, historical fiction
Publication Date: October 26, 2021
Genre: YA Historical Fiction
Recommended Age: 13+ (parent death mentioned)
Explanation of CWs: Parent death is mentioned.
Publisher: Algonquin Young Readers
Pages: 288
Synopsis: How Do You Live? is narrated in two voices. The first belongs to Copper, fifteen, who after the death of his father must confront inevitable and enormous change, including his own betrayal of his best friend. In between episodes of Copper’s emerging story, his uncle writes to him in a journal, sharing knowledge and offering advice on life’s big questions as Copper begins to encounter them. Over the course of the story, Copper, like his namesake Copernicus, looks to the stars, and uses his discoveries about the heavens, earth, and human nature to answer the question of how he will live.
Review: For the most part this was a great read. The book was so sweet and charming, as it focused on the questions a curious child might have at a young age. I thought the book was well written and that it had great character development.
However, I did think that some of the topics discussed (not mature ones, but like about philosophy and astrology) would be a bit over the head of some young audience members, but if they want to give it a shot who am I to judge?
Verdict: It’s good!
challenging
dark
emotional
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Disclaimer: I received this arc and e-arc from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: At The Edge of the Haight
Author: Katherine Seligman
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 3/5
Recommended For...: young adult readers, thriller, mystery, crime
Publication Date: January 19, 2021
Genre: YA Thriller
Recommended Age: 16+ (murder, violence, gore, death, homelessness, overdose TW, drug use, pedophilia mentioned, abuse (physical and emotional))
Explanation of CWs: Murder is central to the plot and there is some violence and gore in the book. Homelessness is experienced by the main character. There is an overdose scene. There is some drug use shown. There is implied pedophilia mentioned. Abuse is also shown.
Publisher: Algonquin Books
Pages: 304
Synopsis: Maddy Donaldo, homeless at twenty, has made a family of sorts in the dangerous spaces of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park. She knows whom to trust, where to eat, when to move locations, and how to take care of her dog. It’s the only home she has. When she unwittingly witnesses the murder of a young homeless boy and is seen by the perpetrator, her relatively stable life is upended. Suddenly, everyone from the police to the dead boys’ parents want to talk to Maddy about what she saw. As adults pressure her to give up her secrets and reunite with her own family before she meets a similar fate, Maddy must decide whether she wants to stay lost or be found. Against the backdrop of a radically changing San Francisco, a city which embraces a booming tech economy while struggling to maintain its culture of tolerance, At the Edge of the Haight follows the lives of those who depend on makeshift homes and communities.
As judge Hillary Jordan says, “This book pulled me deep into a world I knew little about, bringing the struggles of its young, homeless inhabitants—the kind of people we avoid eye contact with on the street—to vivid, poignant life. The novel demands that you take a close look. If you knew, could you still ignore, fear, or condemn them? And knowing, how can you ever forget?”
Review: For the most part I thought the book was ok. It had some really good world building and the plot was intriguing enough to keep me going with the book. The book also had some fairly good moments.
However, I couldn’t really connect with this book. I couldn’t connect with the characters and they felt flat for me. The writing was disjointed and I didn’t like the back and forth of the book. The rest of the book was fine, but the characters really ruined it for me.
Verdict: Not for me but maybe for you.
Book: At The Edge of the Haight
Author: Katherine Seligman
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 3/5
Recommended For...: young adult readers, thriller, mystery, crime
Publication Date: January 19, 2021
Genre: YA Thriller
Recommended Age: 16+ (murder, violence, gore, death, homelessness, overdose TW, drug use, pedophilia mentioned, abuse (physical and emotional))
Explanation of CWs: Murder is central to the plot and there is some violence and gore in the book. Homelessness is experienced by the main character. There is an overdose scene. There is some drug use shown. There is implied pedophilia mentioned. Abuse is also shown.
Publisher: Algonquin Books
Pages: 304
Synopsis: Maddy Donaldo, homeless at twenty, has made a family of sorts in the dangerous spaces of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park. She knows whom to trust, where to eat, when to move locations, and how to take care of her dog. It’s the only home she has. When she unwittingly witnesses the murder of a young homeless boy and is seen by the perpetrator, her relatively stable life is upended. Suddenly, everyone from the police to the dead boys’ parents want to talk to Maddy about what she saw. As adults pressure her to give up her secrets and reunite with her own family before she meets a similar fate, Maddy must decide whether she wants to stay lost or be found. Against the backdrop of a radically changing San Francisco, a city which embraces a booming tech economy while struggling to maintain its culture of tolerance, At the Edge of the Haight follows the lives of those who depend on makeshift homes and communities.
As judge Hillary Jordan says, “This book pulled me deep into a world I knew little about, bringing the struggles of its young, homeless inhabitants—the kind of people we avoid eye contact with on the street—to vivid, poignant life. The novel demands that you take a close look. If you knew, could you still ignore, fear, or condemn them? And knowing, how can you ever forget?”
Review: For the most part I thought the book was ok. It had some really good world building and the plot was intriguing enough to keep me going with the book. The book also had some fairly good moments.
However, I couldn’t really connect with this book. I couldn’t connect with the characters and they felt flat for me. The writing was disjointed and I didn’t like the back and forth of the book. The rest of the book was fine, but the characters really ruined it for me.
Verdict: Not for me but maybe for you.
This Is Our Rainbow: 16 Stories of Her, Him, Them, and Us
Mark Oshiro, Katherine Locke, Claribel A. Ortega, Ashley Herring Blake, Nicole Melleby, Alex Gino, Aisa Salazar, Mariama J. Lockington, Shing Yin Khor, AJ Sass, Lisa Bunker, Lisa Jenn Bigelow, Marieke Nijkamp, Justina Ireland, Eric Bell, Molly Knox Ostertag
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
informative
lighthearted
relaxing
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Disclaimer: I received this e-arc from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: This Is Our Rainbow: 16 Stories of Her, Him, Them, and Us
Author: Eric Bell, Lisa Jenn Bigelow, Ashley Herring Blake, Lisa Bunker, Alex Gino, Justina Ireland, Shing Yin Khor, Katherine Locke, Mariama J. Lockington, Nicole Melleby, Marieke Nijkamp, Claribel A. Ortega, Mark Oshiro, Molly Knox Ostertag, Aisa Salazar, and AJ Sass
Book Series: Standalone
Diversity: Non binary MCs
Ace MC
Trans MC
Latinx lesbian MCs
Gay drag queen side character
Trans side characters
Black MC
Black Lesbian MCs
F/f romance
Mixed relationship
Neopronouns
Gay celiac MC
Black queer MC
Latinx side characters
MC with 2 moms
Side character with 2 dads
Bisexual side character
Lesbian MC
Rating: 5/5
Recommended For...: middle grade readers, contemporary, fantasy, sci-fi, poetry, anthology
Genre: Middle Grade anthology
Publication Date: October 19, 2021
Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers
Pages: 288
Recommended Age: 10+ (Animal Death mentioned, Pronouns not respected, Grief, Domestic violence mentioned, Forced gendered notions, Homophobia, Slavery, Torture mentioned, Mentions of death by hanging, Bullying, Racism, Heartbreak, Religion mentioned, Parent death mentioned, Cancer mentioned)
Explanation of CWs: Animal death is the focus of one story, as is grief. Heartbreak is in a couple of stories. Slavery is shown and torture is mentioned. Bullying is shown in a few stories. Racism is shown in a couple of stories. Religion is mentioned and one church service is shown.
Synopsis: A boyband fandom becomes a conduit to coming out. A former bully becomes a first-kiss prospect. One nonbinary kid searches for an inclusive athletic community after quitting gymnastics. Another nonbinary kid, who happens to be a pirate, makes a wish that comes true--but not how they thought it would. A tween girl navigates a crush on her friend's mom. A young witch turns herself into a puppy to win over a new neighbor. A trans girl empowers her online bestie to come out.
From wind-breathing dragons to first crushes, This Is Our Rainbow features story after story of joyful, proud LGBTQIA+ representation. You will fall in love with this insightful, poignant anthology of queer fantasy, historical, and contemporary stories from authors including: Eric Bell, Lisa Jenn Bigelow, Ashley Herring Blake, Lisa Bunker, Alex Gino, Justina Ireland, Shing Yin Khor, Katherine Locke, Mariama J. Lockington, Nicole Melleby, Marieke Nijkamp, Claribel A. Ortega, Mark Oshiro, Molly Knox Ostertag, Aisa Salazar, and AJ Sass.
Review: Overall I really enjoyed this anthology! It included a lot of cute short stories and I loved the different stories and genres that prominently featured queer characters. The character development was amazing across the stories. The world's were all well developed and immersive. The book was also a lot of fun to read!
The only issue I had is that I wish some of the stories were grouped together in a cohesive manner and I wished there was more main characters that were gay or outright pansexual. I also think one or two main characters were ace but there was nothing concrete, which I think could have been better stated and written.
Verdict: it was great!
Book: This Is Our Rainbow: 16 Stories of Her, Him, Them, and Us
Author: Eric Bell, Lisa Jenn Bigelow, Ashley Herring Blake, Lisa Bunker, Alex Gino, Justina Ireland, Shing Yin Khor, Katherine Locke, Mariama J. Lockington, Nicole Melleby, Marieke Nijkamp, Claribel A. Ortega, Mark Oshiro, Molly Knox Ostertag, Aisa Salazar, and AJ Sass
Book Series: Standalone
Diversity: Non binary MCs
Ace MC
Trans MC
Latinx lesbian MCs
Gay drag queen side character
Trans side characters
Black MC
Black Lesbian MCs
F/f romance
Mixed relationship
Neopronouns
Gay celiac MC
Black queer MC
Latinx side characters
MC with 2 moms
Side character with 2 dads
Bisexual side character
Lesbian MC
Rating: 5/5
Recommended For...: middle grade readers, contemporary, fantasy, sci-fi, poetry, anthology
Genre: Middle Grade anthology
Publication Date: October 19, 2021
Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers
Pages: 288
Recommended Age: 10+ (Animal Death mentioned, Pronouns not respected, Grief, Domestic violence mentioned, Forced gendered notions, Homophobia, Slavery, Torture mentioned, Mentions of death by hanging, Bullying, Racism, Heartbreak, Religion mentioned, Parent death mentioned, Cancer mentioned)
Explanation of CWs: Animal death is the focus of one story, as is grief. Heartbreak is in a couple of stories. Slavery is shown and torture is mentioned. Bullying is shown in a few stories. Racism is shown in a couple of stories. Religion is mentioned and one church service is shown.
Synopsis: A boyband fandom becomes a conduit to coming out. A former bully becomes a first-kiss prospect. One nonbinary kid searches for an inclusive athletic community after quitting gymnastics. Another nonbinary kid, who happens to be a pirate, makes a wish that comes true--but not how they thought it would. A tween girl navigates a crush on her friend's mom. A young witch turns herself into a puppy to win over a new neighbor. A trans girl empowers her online bestie to come out.
From wind-breathing dragons to first crushes, This Is Our Rainbow features story after story of joyful, proud LGBTQIA+ representation. You will fall in love with this insightful, poignant anthology of queer fantasy, historical, and contemporary stories from authors including: Eric Bell, Lisa Jenn Bigelow, Ashley Herring Blake, Lisa Bunker, Alex Gino, Justina Ireland, Shing Yin Khor, Katherine Locke, Mariama J. Lockington, Nicole Melleby, Marieke Nijkamp, Claribel A. Ortega, Mark Oshiro, Molly Knox Ostertag, Aisa Salazar, and AJ Sass.
Review: Overall I really enjoyed this anthology! It included a lot of cute short stories and I loved the different stories and genres that prominently featured queer characters. The character development was amazing across the stories. The world's were all well developed and immersive. The book was also a lot of fun to read!
The only issue I had is that I wish some of the stories were grouped together in a cohesive manner and I wished there was more main characters that were gay or outright pansexual. I also think one or two main characters were ace but there was nothing concrete, which I think could have been better stated and written.
Verdict: it was great!