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2.51k reviews by:
popthebutterfly
emotional
lighthearted
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 and finished copy from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Camp QUILTBAG
Author: Nicole Melleby & A.J. Sass
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Diversity: Lesbian MC, Non-binary Jewish MC who uses neopronouns, POC characters, Black Lesbian character, Jewish gay character, Black Trans Pansexual character with Autism, Trans character, Character who doesn’t use pronouns, Gender Fluid character
Recommended For...: middle grade readers, queer, LGBT, contemporary, camp book
Publication Date: March 21, 2023
Genre: MG Contemporary
Age Relevance: 12+ (homophobia, body dysphoria, religion, bullying, deadnaming)
Explanation of Above: There is some homophobia mentioned in the book, along with a deadnaming event mentioned but not shown. There is some discussion about body dysphoria. There is some small mentions of bullying. Judaism is shown and mentioned in the book, including some insight into practices and celebrations/customs and there are some mentions of Catholicism as well.
Publisher: Algonquin Young Readers
Pages: 352
Synopsis: Twelve-year-old Abigail (she/her/hers) is so excited to spend her summer at Camp QUILTBAG, an inclusive retreat for queer and trans kids. She can’t wait to find a community where she can be herself—and, she hopes, admit her crush on Laura Dern to kids who will understand.
Thirteen-year-old Kai (e/em/eir) is not as excited. E just wants to hang out with eir best friend and eir parkour team. And e definitely does not want to think about the incident that left eir arm in a sling—the incident that also made Kai’s parents determined to send em somewhere e can feel like emself.
After a bit of a rocky start at camp, Abigail and Kai make a pact to help each other find their footing, all while navigating crushes, their queer identities, and a competition pitting cabin against cabin.
Review: I really liked this book overall! I thought the concept of a queer camp for young children is amazing and I loved how much diversity there was in this book. The book is about two characters who are either outted or come out during the school year and, because they’re having a hard time at school with that, they are sent to a Queer Camp to help them get friends and make good memories. The course of the events see these two main characters make a pact to help each other during a competition and the turn of events that happens by the end of the camp season. The book had a main character that uses neopornouns and I loved seeing and exploring that in this book. The book did well with the duel POV and the voices felt distinct. The gender inclusivity and understanding in this book really made it a special read and one I’ll frequently recommend from now one.
The only issue I had with the book is that it was a little hard to get into in the beginning and there was A LOT of characters to remember, but I loved it regardless.
Verdict: I highly recommend this one!
Book: Camp QUILTBAG
Author: Nicole Melleby & A.J. Sass
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Diversity: Lesbian MC, Non-binary Jewish MC who uses neopronouns, POC characters, Black Lesbian character, Jewish gay character, Black Trans Pansexual character with Autism, Trans character, Character who doesn’t use pronouns, Gender Fluid character
Recommended For...: middle grade readers, queer, LGBT, contemporary, camp book
Publication Date: March 21, 2023
Genre: MG Contemporary
Age Relevance: 12+ (homophobia, body dysphoria, religion, bullying, deadnaming)
Explanation of Above: There is some homophobia mentioned in the book, along with a deadnaming event mentioned but not shown. There is some discussion about body dysphoria. There is some small mentions of bullying. Judaism is shown and mentioned in the book, including some insight into practices and celebrations/customs and there are some mentions of Catholicism as well.
Publisher: Algonquin Young Readers
Pages: 352
Synopsis: Twelve-year-old Abigail (she/her/hers) is so excited to spend her summer at Camp QUILTBAG, an inclusive retreat for queer and trans kids. She can’t wait to find a community where she can be herself—and, she hopes, admit her crush on Laura Dern to kids who will understand.
Thirteen-year-old Kai (e/em/eir) is not as excited. E just wants to hang out with eir best friend and eir parkour team. And e definitely does not want to think about the incident that left eir arm in a sling—the incident that also made Kai’s parents determined to send em somewhere e can feel like emself.
After a bit of a rocky start at camp, Abigail and Kai make a pact to help each other find their footing, all while navigating crushes, their queer identities, and a competition pitting cabin against cabin.
Review: I really liked this book overall! I thought the concept of a queer camp for young children is amazing and I loved how much diversity there was in this book. The book is about two characters who are either outted or come out during the school year and, because they’re having a hard time at school with that, they are sent to a Queer Camp to help them get friends and make good memories. The course of the events see these two main characters make a pact to help each other during a competition and the turn of events that happens by the end of the camp season. The book had a main character that uses neopornouns and I loved seeing and exploring that in this book. The book did well with the duel POV and the voices felt distinct. The gender inclusivity and understanding in this book really made it a special read and one I’ll frequently recommend from now one.
The only issue I had with the book is that it was a little hard to get into in the beginning and there was A LOT of characters to remember, but I loved it regardless.
Verdict: I highly recommend this one!
emotional
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Disclaimer: I received this e-arc from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Operation Mom
Author: Reenita Malhotra Hora
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 2/5
Diversity: Indian MC with Anxiety, Indian characters, Pakistani character, Indian character with ADHD
Recommended For...: young adult readers, contemporary, romance, blind dates
Publication Date: August 22, 2022
Genre: YA Contemporary Romance
Age Relevance: 15+ (drugs, cursing, fatphobia, diet culture, ED language, romance)
Explanation of Above: There are drugs mentioned in this book and some cursing. There is a lot of fatphobia in this book and discussion of diet and weightloss that kinda leans into the ED language. There is also some romance shown.
Publisher: GenZ Publishing
Pages: 220
Synopsis: Ila, a Mumbai-based teenager, is going nuts with Veena, her controlling, single mother who prevents her from stalking her pop idol, Ali Zafar. Veena wants her daughter to date real guys in the lead-up to finding a husband. But Ila decides that the only way to get her mom off her back is by finding her a boyfriend instead.
Review: So… I didn’t like this book that much. I though the concept was fun. I loved that it is a “my kid sets me up on a blind date” which is a twist on a favorite trope of mine (my family sets me up on a blind date). The MC of our book is desperate to get her mom interested in someone else when she’s trying to go to a concert. The book focuses on our MC finding men for her mom on dating apps and reaching out for the help of other family members. It was a cute book for that part of it.
However, the book had a lot of fatphobic language in it. There was a lot of remarks made to the MC from her mother about her weight and appearance. There were whole scenes of them all just going to the gym and talking about weightloss and dieting. There was a lot of remarks about body types and a lot of horrible language being associated with being plus size. It was very uncomfortable to me, as a plus size person, to read all of that and it really messed with my head for a bit. The book was also really rushed in spots.
Verdict: Overall, based on the fatphobic language, I wouldn’t recommend this book to younger audiences.
Book: Operation Mom
Author: Reenita Malhotra Hora
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 2/5
Diversity: Indian MC with Anxiety, Indian characters, Pakistani character, Indian character with ADHD
Recommended For...: young adult readers, contemporary, romance, blind dates
Publication Date: August 22, 2022
Genre: YA Contemporary Romance
Age Relevance: 15+ (drugs, cursing, fatphobia, diet culture, ED language, romance)
Explanation of Above: There are drugs mentioned in this book and some cursing. There is a lot of fatphobia in this book and discussion of diet and weightloss that kinda leans into the ED language. There is also some romance shown.
Publisher: GenZ Publishing
Pages: 220
Synopsis: Ila, a Mumbai-based teenager, is going nuts with Veena, her controlling, single mother who prevents her from stalking her pop idol, Ali Zafar. Veena wants her daughter to date real guys in the lead-up to finding a husband. But Ila decides that the only way to get her mom off her back is by finding her a boyfriend instead.
Review: So… I didn’t like this book that much. I though the concept was fun. I loved that it is a “my kid sets me up on a blind date” which is a twist on a favorite trope of mine (my family sets me up on a blind date). The MC of our book is desperate to get her mom interested in someone else when she’s trying to go to a concert. The book focuses on our MC finding men for her mom on dating apps and reaching out for the help of other family members. It was a cute book for that part of it.
However, the book had a lot of fatphobic language in it. There was a lot of remarks made to the MC from her mother about her weight and appearance. There were whole scenes of them all just going to the gym and talking about weightloss and dieting. There was a lot of remarks about body types and a lot of horrible language being associated with being plus size. It was very uncomfortable to me, as a plus size person, to read all of that and it really messed with my head for a bit. The book was also really rushed in spots.
Verdict: Overall, based on the fatphobic language, I wouldn’t recommend this book to younger audiences.
emotional
hopeful
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:
Yes
Disclaimer: I received this e-arc from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Forget Me Not
Author: Alyson Derrick
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Korean American lesbian MC, Lesbian character, Sapphic romance
Recommended For...: young adult readers, contemporary, romance, LGBT, Sapphic romance
Publication Date: April 4, 2023
Genre: YA Contemporary Romance
Age Relevance: 15+ (religion, religious trauma, racism, romance, teen pregnancy, sexual content, homophobia, cursing, misogyny, gore, underage alcohol consumption, child abuse)
Explanation of Above: There is mention of Catholicism and some religious trauma shown in the book. There is romance and very slight/one scene sexual content that is vague about what happens. There are racist remarks and confederate flags shown in the book. There are mentions of teen pregnancy. There is homophobia mentioned and shown in the book, and a scene where closeted characters are forced to come out and are kicked out. There is some cursing. There is some misogyny. There is slight blood gore mentioned. There is one scene of underage alcohol consumption. There is some child abuse mentioned and one scene of it being shown.
Publisher: Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers
Pages: 320
Synopsis: A romantic ode to the strength of love and the power of choosing each other, against odds and obstacles, again and again.
What would you do if you forgot the love of your life ever even existed?
Stevie and Nora had a love. A secret, epic, once-in-a-lifetime kind of love. They also had a plan: to leave their small, ultra-conservative town and families behind after graduation and move to California, where they could finally stop hiding that love.
But then Stevie has a terrible fall. And when she comes to, she can remember nothing of the last two years—not California, not coming to terms with her sexuality, not even Nora. Suddenly, Stevie finds herself in a life she doesn’t quite understand, one where she’s estranged from her parents, drifting away from her friends, lying about the hours she works, dating a boy she can’t remember crushing on, and headed towards a future that isn’t at all what her fifteen-year-old self would have envisioned.
And Nora finds herself…forgotten. Can the two beat the odds a second time and find their way back together when “together” itself is just a lost memory?
Review: I thought this was such a beautiful book about love and how eternal it is. The book is about our MC who is in a secret relationship with Nora. They have such a great connection and are destined for more than their small homophobic racist town allows and they plan to seize it, until our MC falls and sustains a brain injury that wipes her memory of the last two years, which includes every bit of Nora. The book focuses on our MC and their journey to reclaim their memories and Nora’s efforts to help her remember their relationship. The book made me cry and is one of those I’m not going to forget anytime soon. The book did well with pulling every heartstring I had and, even though the end was predictable, it was the journey that had me coming back to furiously read more and more of the book. The book also did well with making relatable but flawed characters and the world building was immaculate.
The only issue I had with the book is that I felt like it was a bit predictable and we’ll never get real confirmation about Stevie’s memories, but I think that’s what gives the book a special appeal: the realism that while nothing may never be the same after an awful event, you can still find your way back to your old life in your own way.
Verdict: I highly recommend this book!
Book: Forget Me Not
Author: Alyson Derrick
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Korean American lesbian MC, Lesbian character, Sapphic romance
Recommended For...: young adult readers, contemporary, romance, LGBT, Sapphic romance
Publication Date: April 4, 2023
Genre: YA Contemporary Romance
Age Relevance: 15+ (religion, religious trauma, racism, romance, teen pregnancy, sexual content, homophobia, cursing, misogyny, gore, underage alcohol consumption, child abuse)
Explanation of Above: There is mention of Catholicism and some religious trauma shown in the book. There is romance and very slight/one scene sexual content that is vague about what happens. There are racist remarks and confederate flags shown in the book. There are mentions of teen pregnancy. There is homophobia mentioned and shown in the book, and a scene where closeted characters are forced to come out and are kicked out. There is some cursing. There is some misogyny. There is slight blood gore mentioned. There is one scene of underage alcohol consumption. There is some child abuse mentioned and one scene of it being shown.
Publisher: Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers
Pages: 320
Synopsis: A romantic ode to the strength of love and the power of choosing each other, against odds and obstacles, again and again.
What would you do if you forgot the love of your life ever even existed?
Stevie and Nora had a love. A secret, epic, once-in-a-lifetime kind of love. They also had a plan: to leave their small, ultra-conservative town and families behind after graduation and move to California, where they could finally stop hiding that love.
But then Stevie has a terrible fall. And when she comes to, she can remember nothing of the last two years—not California, not coming to terms with her sexuality, not even Nora. Suddenly, Stevie finds herself in a life she doesn’t quite understand, one where she’s estranged from her parents, drifting away from her friends, lying about the hours she works, dating a boy she can’t remember crushing on, and headed towards a future that isn’t at all what her fifteen-year-old self would have envisioned.
And Nora finds herself…forgotten. Can the two beat the odds a second time and find their way back together when “together” itself is just a lost memory?
Review: I thought this was such a beautiful book about love and how eternal it is. The book is about our MC who is in a secret relationship with Nora. They have such a great connection and are destined for more than their small homophobic racist town allows and they plan to seize it, until our MC falls and sustains a brain injury that wipes her memory of the last two years, which includes every bit of Nora. The book focuses on our MC and their journey to reclaim their memories and Nora’s efforts to help her remember their relationship. The book made me cry and is one of those I’m not going to forget anytime soon. The book did well with pulling every heartstring I had and, even though the end was predictable, it was the journey that had me coming back to furiously read more and more of the book. The book also did well with making relatable but flawed characters and the world building was immaculate.
The only issue I had with the book is that I felt like it was a bit predictable and we’ll never get real confirmation about Stevie’s memories, but I think that’s what gives the book a special appeal: the realism that while nothing may never be the same after an awful event, you can still find your way back to your old life in your own way.
Verdict: I highly recommend this book!
emotional
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Disclaimer: I received this finished copy from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: It’s Boba Time for Pearl Li!
Author: Nicole Chen
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Taiwanese American MC and characters, Chinese character, Taiwanese characters, Indian American character, Indian characters
Recommended For...: middle grade readers, contemporary, amigurumi, crochet, crafts
Publication Date: February 28, 2023
Genre: MG Contemporary
Age Relevance: 8+ (racism, sexism)
Explanation of Above: There are mentions of racism and sexism in this book.
Publisher: Quill Tree Books
Pages: 350
Synopsis: Pearl Li is ready to spend the summer before seventh grade hanging out with her two best friends, crocheting the cutest amigurumi dolls, and visiting her favorite tea shop, Boba Time. Its quirky owner, Auntie Cha, is the only adult Pearl can confide in about her art—if only her tech-obsessed family would understand her love of crafts!
After Pearl learns of Boba Time’s financial troubles, she decides to sell her amigurumi to raise money for the shop. But as she navigates the ups and downs of running a business, Pearl realizes that monetizing her passion is more complicated than she could’ve ever imagined. Can Pearl save Boba Time before it’s too late?
Review: This is a book for lovers of crafts, especially crochet! The book revolves around our MC who is a crochet-er. She perfected the art from her friend who runs a boba tea shop, but when the business is in danger of being shut down our MC puts her skill to the test to make more amigurumi to sell to others in hopes of raising money to save the business. The book was so fun and had a lot of good conversation about modern skill (like coding) vs older skills (like crochet) and how they are different but intersect in some ways. The book also explained running a business well and gave good tips for anyone who might be interested in doing so or using the internet in some way to drive up engagement for other things. The book was especially special to me since I just started crocheting amigurumi and I felt very connected with Pearl. I loved every moment of this book and basically binged it in a day. The character development and world building were amazing, the story was fantastically written, and the book gave me a drive to practice and perfect my crochet skills.
The only thing I really had a little issue with is that the ending felt a little rushed, but the book is perfect regardless.
Verdict: A crochet lover’s dream book! Highly recommend!
Book: It’s Boba Time for Pearl Li!
Author: Nicole Chen
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Taiwanese American MC and characters, Chinese character, Taiwanese characters, Indian American character, Indian characters
Recommended For...: middle grade readers, contemporary, amigurumi, crochet, crafts
Publication Date: February 28, 2023
Genre: MG Contemporary
Age Relevance: 8+ (racism, sexism)
Explanation of Above: There are mentions of racism and sexism in this book.
Publisher: Quill Tree Books
Pages: 350
Synopsis: Pearl Li is ready to spend the summer before seventh grade hanging out with her two best friends, crocheting the cutest amigurumi dolls, and visiting her favorite tea shop, Boba Time. Its quirky owner, Auntie Cha, is the only adult Pearl can confide in about her art—if only her tech-obsessed family would understand her love of crafts!
After Pearl learns of Boba Time’s financial troubles, she decides to sell her amigurumi to raise money for the shop. But as she navigates the ups and downs of running a business, Pearl realizes that monetizing her passion is more complicated than she could’ve ever imagined. Can Pearl save Boba Time before it’s too late?
Review: This is a book for lovers of crafts, especially crochet! The book revolves around our MC who is a crochet-er. She perfected the art from her friend who runs a boba tea shop, but when the business is in danger of being shut down our MC puts her skill to the test to make more amigurumi to sell to others in hopes of raising money to save the business. The book was so fun and had a lot of good conversation about modern skill (like coding) vs older skills (like crochet) and how they are different but intersect in some ways. The book also explained running a business well and gave good tips for anyone who might be interested in doing so or using the internet in some way to drive up engagement for other things. The book was especially special to me since I just started crocheting amigurumi and I felt very connected with Pearl. I loved every moment of this book and basically binged it in a day. The character development and world building were amazing, the story was fantastically written, and the book gave me a drive to practice and perfect my crochet skills.
The only thing I really had a little issue with is that the ending felt a little rushed, but the book is perfect regardless.
Verdict: A crochet lover’s dream book! Highly recommend!
emotional
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Disclaimer: I received this e-arc from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: The House that Whispers
Author: Lin Thompson
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Trans MC with anxiety, Sapphic characters, Lesbian characters, Character with Dementia
Recommended For...: middle grade readers, paranormal, horror, contemporary, LGBT, queer
Publication Date: February 28, 2023
Genre: MG Paranormal Horror
Age Relevance: 10+ (religion, deadnaming, sexism, illness, ghosts, misgendering, divorce, anxiety, homophobia, transphobia, death)
Explanation of Above: Christianity is mentioned and shown with a scene or two with prayer. There is deadnaming mentioned, but not shown (check written review for details on that) and the same for misgendering. There is some sexism shown and homophobia and transphobia is mentioned and discussed. There are scenes showing dementia. There are mentions of ghosts. There are a couple of scenes of anxiety and anxiety attacks. Divorce is mentioned and death is also briefly mentioned.
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Pages: 336
Synopsis: Eleven-year-old Simon and his siblings, Talia and Rose, are staying the week at Nanaleen's century-old house. This time, though, it’s not their usual summer vacation trip. In fact, everything’s different. It’s fall, not summer. Mom and Dad are staying behind to have a “talk.” And Nanaleen’s house smells weird, plus she keeps forgetting things. And these aren’t the only things getting under Simon’s skin: He’s the only one who knows that his name is Simon, and that he and him pronouns are starting to feel right. But he’s not ready to add to the changes that are already in motion in his family.
To make matters worse, Simon keeps hearing a scratching in the walls, and shadows are beginning to build in the corners. He can’t shake the feeling that something is deeply wrong…and he’s determined to get to the bottom of it—which means launching a ghost hunt, with or without his sisters’ help. When Simon discovers the hidden story of his great-aunt Brie, he realizes that Brie’s life might hold answers to some of his worries. Is Brie’s ghost haunting the old O’Hagan house? And will Simon’s search for ghosts turn up more secrets than he ever expected?
Review: This has to be one of the most brilliant books I’ve read in regards to how a trans person’s true identity is displayed in the book while they are still in the closet. The book revolves around our MC who is being sent with his siblings to their grandmother’s home while their parents sort through their crumbling relationship. The MC is not out of the closet yet about being trans, but the author does not allow any of the characters to deadname or misgender him in text. They instead are written having internally processed the dialogue and, with the book as their inner monologue, is substituting their true pronouns and name for what is said to them and about them. I loved that approach to the character because it doesn’t feel right when deadnaming and misgendering occur to a trans character by the author themselves. The side plot of the story, however, revolves around the ghosts that reside in the grandmother’s home, which I really liked as a physical/mental manifestation to the anxiety and secrets that are occurring in the home that are now effecting our MC. The book touches on a lot of topics, such as coming out and being true to you. There is a particular quote in the book that goes something like “you’re allowed to have feelings. You know you don’t have to be happy all the time” and I think that particular quote resonates so well not only with middle graders but also older audiences as well. Beyond the amazing level of commentary in this book, I thought the story itself was well written, compelling, and kept me interested throughout. The book has amazing character development and world building as well.
The only issue I would have to say I had with the book is that I feel like it was a bit unresolved at the end and I wanted a little bit more of an epilogue, but beyond that it was amazing.
Verdict: I love it and highly recommend it!
Book: The House that Whispers
Author: Lin Thompson
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Trans MC with anxiety, Sapphic characters, Lesbian characters, Character with Dementia
Recommended For...: middle grade readers, paranormal, horror, contemporary, LGBT, queer
Publication Date: February 28, 2023
Genre: MG Paranormal Horror
Age Relevance: 10+ (religion, deadnaming, sexism, illness, ghosts, misgendering, divorce, anxiety, homophobia, transphobia, death)
Explanation of Above: Christianity is mentioned and shown with a scene or two with prayer. There is deadnaming mentioned, but not shown (check written review for details on that) and the same for misgendering. There is some sexism shown and homophobia and transphobia is mentioned and discussed. There are scenes showing dementia. There are mentions of ghosts. There are a couple of scenes of anxiety and anxiety attacks. Divorce is mentioned and death is also briefly mentioned.
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Pages: 336
Synopsis: Eleven-year-old Simon and his siblings, Talia and Rose, are staying the week at Nanaleen's century-old house. This time, though, it’s not their usual summer vacation trip. In fact, everything’s different. It’s fall, not summer. Mom and Dad are staying behind to have a “talk.” And Nanaleen’s house smells weird, plus she keeps forgetting things. And these aren’t the only things getting under Simon’s skin: He’s the only one who knows that his name is Simon, and that he and him pronouns are starting to feel right. But he’s not ready to add to the changes that are already in motion in his family.
To make matters worse, Simon keeps hearing a scratching in the walls, and shadows are beginning to build in the corners. He can’t shake the feeling that something is deeply wrong…and he’s determined to get to the bottom of it—which means launching a ghost hunt, with or without his sisters’ help. When Simon discovers the hidden story of his great-aunt Brie, he realizes that Brie’s life might hold answers to some of his worries. Is Brie’s ghost haunting the old O’Hagan house? And will Simon’s search for ghosts turn up more secrets than he ever expected?
Review: This has to be one of the most brilliant books I’ve read in regards to how a trans person’s true identity is displayed in the book while they are still in the closet. The book revolves around our MC who is being sent with his siblings to their grandmother’s home while their parents sort through their crumbling relationship. The MC is not out of the closet yet about being trans, but the author does not allow any of the characters to deadname or misgender him in text. They instead are written having internally processed the dialogue and, with the book as their inner monologue, is substituting their true pronouns and name for what is said to them and about them. I loved that approach to the character because it doesn’t feel right when deadnaming and misgendering occur to a trans character by the author themselves. The side plot of the story, however, revolves around the ghosts that reside in the grandmother’s home, which I really liked as a physical/mental manifestation to the anxiety and secrets that are occurring in the home that are now effecting our MC. The book touches on a lot of topics, such as coming out and being true to you. There is a particular quote in the book that goes something like “you’re allowed to have feelings. You know you don’t have to be happy all the time” and I think that particular quote resonates so well not only with middle graders but also older audiences as well. Beyond the amazing level of commentary in this book, I thought the story itself was well written, compelling, and kept me interested throughout. The book has amazing character development and world building as well.
The only issue I would have to say I had with the book is that I feel like it was a bit unresolved at the end and I wanted a little bit more of an epilogue, but beyond that it was amazing.
Verdict: I love it and highly recommend it!
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Disclaimer: I received this e-arc copy from the author. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: The Super Secret Monster Experiment
Author: Tian En
Book Series: Part of the Super Secret Book series
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: POC MC and characters
Recommended For...: children’s readers, fantasy, superheroes
Publication Date: December 28, 2022
Genre: Children’s Fantasy
Age Relevance: 7+ (kidnapped children, scary moments, slight violence)
Explanation of Above: The plot revolves around children who are kidnapped. There are some scary moments and one short fight scene with superheroes.
Publisher: Indie Published
Pages: 36
Synopsis: Nothing is ever normal in Diamond City. The two teenage superheroes, Lady Damage and The Mystery, are investigating the sudden disappearance of ten children, but they will soon discover that the kidnappers are no ordinary humans, and something sinister is lurking in the darkness!
Review: I thought this book was well written and super fun. The book revolved around children who had been kidnapped and our superheroes being sent to find out what happened to them. The book follows the superheroes as they find clues and rescue the children. The book did well to be a fun superhero book but in a very child friendly tone. The book had well developed characters and the world building was good too.
My only issue with the book is that I thought it could have been a little longer, but for young children it’s perfect.
Verdict: It was a great read! Highly recommend this series!
Book: The Super Secret Monster Experiment
Author: Tian En
Book Series: Part of the Super Secret Book series
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: POC MC and characters
Recommended For...: children’s readers, fantasy, superheroes
Publication Date: December 28, 2022
Genre: Children’s Fantasy
Age Relevance: 7+ (kidnapped children, scary moments, slight violence)
Explanation of Above: The plot revolves around children who are kidnapped. There are some scary moments and one short fight scene with superheroes.
Publisher: Indie Published
Pages: 36
Synopsis: Nothing is ever normal in Diamond City. The two teenage superheroes, Lady Damage and The Mystery, are investigating the sudden disappearance of ten children, but they will soon discover that the kidnappers are no ordinary humans, and something sinister is lurking in the darkness!
Review: I thought this book was well written and super fun. The book revolved around children who had been kidnapped and our superheroes being sent to find out what happened to them. The book follows the superheroes as they find clues and rescue the children. The book did well to be a fun superhero book but in a very child friendly tone. The book had well developed characters and the world building was good too.
My only issue with the book is that I thought it could have been a little longer, but for young children it’s perfect.
Verdict: It was a great read! Highly recommend this series!
emotional
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
Disclaimer: I received this e-arc from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Gradad’s Pride
Author: Harry Woodgate
Book Series: Part of the Grandad’s Camper series
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: POC MC and characters, queer characters, drag queens
Recommended For...: children’s readers, picture book, pride, LGBT+
Publication Date: April 25, 2023
Genre: Children’s Picture Book
Age Relevance: 0+ (love and acceptance)
Explanation of Above: Love and acceptance, primarily with LGBT+/queer people, is the main focus of this book.
Publisher: Little Bee Books
Pages: 32
Synopsis: After Milly discovers a pride flag in Grandad's attic, this adorable pair are motivated by the past to start a pride parade in their small town. Activism and celebration go hand in hand as the town gathers to help "build a world where everyone is proud to be themselves." This beautiful follow-up to Grandad's Camper is filled with heart and purpose.
Review: I really loved this sweet picture book! The book focused on our MC finding her grandad’s old pride flag in the attic and him telling her all about equality and diversity and love. The MC then is inspired to host a pride event in her grandad’s town so he can participate in them again at his old age. The book is a sweet reminder of how far we’ve come, but how far we still have to go. The opening about the pride events featured items about equality, the middle about pride events with signs about gay marriage finally being legal, and the ending with signs about trans rights. I think this is a great conversation starter book for young children.
Verdict: I loved it and I highly recommend it!
Book: Gradad’s Pride
Author: Harry Woodgate
Book Series: Part of the Grandad’s Camper series
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: POC MC and characters, queer characters, drag queens
Recommended For...: children’s readers, picture book, pride, LGBT+
Publication Date: April 25, 2023
Genre: Children’s Picture Book
Age Relevance: 0+ (love and acceptance)
Explanation of Above: Love and acceptance, primarily with LGBT+/queer people, is the main focus of this book.
Publisher: Little Bee Books
Pages: 32
Synopsis: After Milly discovers a pride flag in Grandad's attic, this adorable pair are motivated by the past to start a pride parade in their small town. Activism and celebration go hand in hand as the town gathers to help "build a world where everyone is proud to be themselves." This beautiful follow-up to Grandad's Camper is filled with heart and purpose.
Review: I really loved this sweet picture book! The book focused on our MC finding her grandad’s old pride flag in the attic and him telling her all about equality and diversity and love. The MC then is inspired to host a pride event in her grandad’s town so he can participate in them again at his old age. The book is a sweet reminder of how far we’ve come, but how far we still have to go. The opening about the pride events featured items about equality, the middle about pride events with signs about gay marriage finally being legal, and the ending with signs about trans rights. I think this is a great conversation starter book for young children.
Verdict: I loved it and I highly recommend it!
adventurous
emotional
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Disclaimer: I received this e-book from the author. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Lost and Found
Author: Natalie Shampanier and David Pavon
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: POC characters and character toy
Recommended For...: children’s readers, picture book, toy story
Publication Date: December 24, 2022
Genre: Children’s Picture Book
Age Relevance: 0+ (abandonment)
Explanation of Above: There are some scenes and conversation about abandonment.
Publisher: Indie Published
Pages: 32
Synopsis: Forgotten toys at a summer camp ground
Are tossed into the camp’s Lost and Found.
But Dino Boy refuses to spend his days on a shelf
He sets out to escape and find a home for himself.
A ballerina, a hippo, and a mood ring tag along
On this great adventure to find where they belong.
Award-winning screenwriter and family therapist Natalie Shampanier draws from her experience with adopted children to create a poignant rhyming tale about determination, friendship and the search for love. This beautifully illustrated book is a perfect read-aloud for early readers and shared family story time!
Review: This is an adorable book about lost toys that struggle to go off to find their own way, but end up finding more when their plans don’t come to fruition the first time. The book was very colorful and fun. It had a Toy Story vibe to it, which is something a lot of kids love. The book also talked about rejection and finding new friends to play with. I also see the inspiration with adopted and orphaned children and I think that was a good analogy.
Verdict: It’s so cute! Highly recommend!
Book: Lost and Found
Author: Natalie Shampanier and David Pavon
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: POC characters and character toy
Recommended For...: children’s readers, picture book, toy story
Publication Date: December 24, 2022
Genre: Children’s Picture Book
Age Relevance: 0+ (abandonment)
Explanation of Above: There are some scenes and conversation about abandonment.
Publisher: Indie Published
Pages: 32
Synopsis: Forgotten toys at a summer camp ground
Are tossed into the camp’s Lost and Found.
But Dino Boy refuses to spend his days on a shelf
He sets out to escape and find a home for himself.
A ballerina, a hippo, and a mood ring tag along
On this great adventure to find where they belong.
Award-winning screenwriter and family therapist Natalie Shampanier draws from her experience with adopted children to create a poignant rhyming tale about determination, friendship and the search for love. This beautifully illustrated book is a perfect read-aloud for early readers and shared family story time!
Review: This is an adorable book about lost toys that struggle to go off to find their own way, but end up finding more when their plans don’t come to fruition the first time. The book was very colorful and fun. It had a Toy Story vibe to it, which is something a lot of kids love. The book also talked about rejection and finding new friends to play with. I also see the inspiration with adopted and orphaned children and I think that was a good analogy.
Verdict: It’s so cute! Highly recommend!
emotional
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Disclaimer: I received this finished copy from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Keyana Loves Her Family
Author: Natasha Anatasia Tarpley and Charnelle Pinkney Barlow
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Black American MC and characters
Recommended For...: children’s readers, picture book, family
Publication Date: December 13, 2022
Genre: Children’s Picture Book
Age Relevance: 0+ (asking for help, family bonds)
Explanation of Above: It’s suitable for children as young as whatever you see fit. The book discusses family bonds and helping each other out.
Publisher: Little Brown Books for Young Readers
Pages: 40
Synopsis: Keyana’s always full of big ideas. Her latest and greatest plan is to host a perfect family movie night. From aunts to uncles to her five favorite cousins, everyone is invited! She knows the best way to impress her guests is with a fabulous soiree, and there’s a lot on her to-do list. But when the night doesn’t go as planned, she’ll have to rely on a little help from the people she loves most.
Review: I thought this was a super cute book that focused on family and the bonds that exist to help each other out. During the event that Keyana has specially planned, things go array and she has to learn to rely on others for help. I think this is a very good book for young children to learn that they don’t always need to learn how to perfect something 100%. Sometimes everyone, even grownups, needs help and you shouldn’t ever be ashamed to ask for it.
Verdict: I loved it so much! Highly recommend!
Book: Keyana Loves Her Family
Author: Natasha Anatasia Tarpley and Charnelle Pinkney Barlow
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Black American MC and characters
Recommended For...: children’s readers, picture book, family
Publication Date: December 13, 2022
Genre: Children’s Picture Book
Age Relevance: 0+ (asking for help, family bonds)
Explanation of Above: It’s suitable for children as young as whatever you see fit. The book discusses family bonds and helping each other out.
Publisher: Little Brown Books for Young Readers
Pages: 40
Synopsis: Keyana’s always full of big ideas. Her latest and greatest plan is to host a perfect family movie night. From aunts to uncles to her five favorite cousins, everyone is invited! She knows the best way to impress her guests is with a fabulous soiree, and there’s a lot on her to-do list. But when the night doesn’t go as planned, she’ll have to rely on a little help from the people she loves most.
Review: I thought this was a super cute book that focused on family and the bonds that exist to help each other out. During the event that Keyana has specially planned, things go array and she has to learn to rely on others for help. I think this is a very good book for young children to learn that they don’t always need to learn how to perfect something 100%. Sometimes everyone, even grownups, needs help and you shouldn’t ever be ashamed to ask for it.
Verdict: I loved it so much! Highly recommend!
adventurous
emotional
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Disclaimer: I received this e-arc from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Pilar Ramirez and the Curse of San Zenon
Author: Julian Randall
Book Series: Pilar Ramirez Book 2
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Dominican American MC, Dominican characters
Recommended For...: middle grade readers, fantasy, mythology, Dominican Republic
Publication Date: February 28, 2023
Genre: MG Fantasy
Age Relevance: 10+ (parental death, violence, gore, war mentioned)
Explanation of Above: There is a parental death mentioned briefly. There is some violence and small blood gore. There are mentions of war.
Publisher: Henry Holt and Co.
Pages: 272
Synopsis: After being magically transported to the mythical island of Zafa and rescuing her long captive cousin Natasha, Pilar is back in Chicago . . . and hiding the shocking truths about Zafa and Natasha being alive. So, when she and her family are invited on a trip to Santo Domingo, Pilar welcomes the distraction and the chance to see the Dominican Republic for the first time.
But when Ciguapa and close friend Carmen magically appears in the DR searching for help, Pilar is soon on the hunt for the escaped demon El Baca and his mysterious new ally. Now, with a cursed storm gathering over the island to resurrect an ancient enemy, Pilar will have to harness her newfound bruja powers if she has any hope of saving her own world, Zafa, and most importantly her family before the clock runs out and ushers in a new era of evil.
Review: This book revolves around our MC a year after the previous book’s events. Pilar is invited with her family to go back to the Dominican Republic and good times are had until Zafa residents reappear to PIlar looking for her help yet again. The book did better this time with the pacing and it felt like it was smoother and more even. The book had great historical references with the history of the DR and I loved learning about it. The book also had good world building and character development.
However, I did think that the book is still too fast paced and I think it would be better slowed down. But overall it was good!
Verdict: It was good! Highly recommend.
Book: Pilar Ramirez and the Curse of San Zenon
Author: Julian Randall
Book Series: Pilar Ramirez Book 2
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Dominican American MC, Dominican characters
Recommended For...: middle grade readers, fantasy, mythology, Dominican Republic
Publication Date: February 28, 2023
Genre: MG Fantasy
Age Relevance: 10+ (parental death, violence, gore, war mentioned)
Explanation of Above: There is a parental death mentioned briefly. There is some violence and small blood gore. There are mentions of war.
Publisher: Henry Holt and Co.
Pages: 272
Synopsis: After being magically transported to the mythical island of Zafa and rescuing her long captive cousin Natasha, Pilar is back in Chicago . . . and hiding the shocking truths about Zafa and Natasha being alive. So, when she and her family are invited on a trip to Santo Domingo, Pilar welcomes the distraction and the chance to see the Dominican Republic for the first time.
But when Ciguapa and close friend Carmen magically appears in the DR searching for help, Pilar is soon on the hunt for the escaped demon El Baca and his mysterious new ally. Now, with a cursed storm gathering over the island to resurrect an ancient enemy, Pilar will have to harness her newfound bruja powers if she has any hope of saving her own world, Zafa, and most importantly her family before the clock runs out and ushers in a new era of evil.
Review: This book revolves around our MC a year after the previous book’s events. Pilar is invited with her family to go back to the Dominican Republic and good times are had until Zafa residents reappear to PIlar looking for her help yet again. The book did better this time with the pacing and it felt like it was smoother and more even. The book had great historical references with the history of the DR and I loved learning about it. The book also had good world building and character development.
However, I did think that the book is still too fast paced and I think it would be better slowed down. But overall it was good!
Verdict: It was good! Highly recommend.