Though it only took me a couple of days to read this book, make no mistake it was an absolute slog during the first 75%. There was so much setup to this book that it felt like nothing had happened during the majority of the book and there's only so much laying off foundation of a story you can do when that's all you have for the longest time. I didn't find the first part very engaging, Vasya's childhood could have easily been summed up in a couple of chapters, but there's more time spent on characters that we never see again in this book. I know that they'll probably have some role to play in later installments, but I digress. The second part was much the same, only it just kept repeating the same plot threads: her stepmother is nasty, the priest wants to convert Vasya, but she is too headstrong and wild, her father is disappointed that he can't save her by marrying her off, lather rinse repeat.

It's not until the final part that it finally picks up. Here is all the plot progression and action I've been waiting for and thankfully it did pay off, it just took 80% of the book to get there. Honestly, the ending was always going to decide if I was going to continue with this series and I think I may check out the next book knowing that I was at least satisfied by the end of the first. 

I was not very familiar with Russian folklore going into this book, maybe a handful of Baba Yaga stories and The Firebird, but that was about it. It was neat to see the stories and creatures that make up the myths of this culture and I look forward to seeing more in the next books.

While the pacing of the book was a big negative for me, I did enjoy Vasya's character: her determination, stubbornness, kindness, and sheer will. Her character didn't really grow much over the course of the story, but I think the aim was to test her mettle rather than have her go through a transformation. I am somewhat curious as to where the story will lead her next and it's that feeling that really makes me want to stick around to see what's next for her. 

Though there were times it dragged on a bit too much, I'm glad to say that I actually really liked this book. This is my first time reading any of Schwab's works and they've been on my list for quite a while. I can really find myself latching onto her style. What really drew me to this book was the premise, as I'm a big fan of the whole Faustian bargain plotline. There are so many wonderfully captured emotions and experiences on display here and it all culminates in a bittersweet ending that I think was well earned. Definitely looking forward to my next read from this author.

Though a simple story, this book is written with an earnestness that endears itself to the reader along with providing stunning visuals that fit so seamlessly with the tone and vibe of the story. I remember when this book first came out and it was such a big hit, my library must have had at least five copies on hand at all times. I think interest in this book has waned a bit somewhat, I don't really see people talking much about it anymore, but I think it still has place among younger readers that still love having a visual accompanying their stories.

Though I already have some personal experience in using and identifying with they/them pronouns, I am so glad that I picked this book up. It felt more validating than anything, knowing that books like this are being made in order to make sure that those who use they/them pronouns are understood and treated with respect. The appeal of this book comes from its quick and simple way of defining and executing this information without weighing it down with textbook definitions. It feels more like a conversation than a lecture, which I always appreciate in any nonfiction work. The personalities of the two authors come in super clear and add a bit of charm to the work. I would recommend it to anyone looking for information on how to refer to those who use they/them pronouns, as well as how to navigate certain situations like misgendering or making assumptions based on names or outward appearances. I would even recommend to those who use they/them pronouns, as it also is a heavily validating work and gives some information on how to maintain relationships with people who may or may not accept their identities. It's not a purely exhaustive take on the subject, but succeeds in its mission to serve as a to-the-point and accessible guide.

Bechdel creates a really striking and emotionally resonating memoir that utilizes descriptive, insightful text along detailed but still somewhat simplistic visuals. I love the color palette this graphic novel has, black and white with a greyish blue to give the book a more personal feel. I wonder if there's an argument towards whether the color choice could be Bechdel putting herself in what would typical be a "black and white" narrative, as her favorite color is a shade of blue. That may be the English major in me rearing its overanalzying head and the choice was simply to give the visual more definition. Either way, it gives the book its own distinct look. 

I also really liked how she uses the theme of space to her advantage. Each time there is a panel showcasing a view into the house through the windows, framing one solitary character in each, it gives off the impressive that, even though the characters are sharing a particular space, there is something isolating them from each other. Throughout the book, the reader can see that this family is not close in the traditional sense, hiding their emotions or what's going on in their lives. The family appears more as a group of strangers living together, though its clear to see the connections Bechdel makes with her parents, her father especially. It's one where, though he was rarely emotionally available, he was still physically a part of her life. 

Had to read this for assigned reading. I didn't know much about Lindbergh going in, so this book gave me a fair scope of his ideologies and passions, both the aspirational and deeply troubling. To me, Charles Lindbergh appears as your typical white man in the early 20th century, very adverse to emotional responses, when it comes to himself and his family, and just seems very distant in general. He lacked feeling and empathy throughout his life, and I think that was just part of his upbringing, but that's all speculation. Fleming does a wonderful job in detailing his exploits and, while giving an air of condemnation for his anti-Semitism and ties to the Nazi party, this book does not treat him as a monster, but rather a man that achieved greatness, but was still susceptible to people filling his head with nonsense. 

I can't fully express how much I loved this book, how comfortable I felt between its pages and connected with these wonderful characters. This is definitely a case of reading the right book at the right time, as I was in desperate need of a story about finding yourself in a place where you feel truly loved. I am a big fan of the found family trope, so naturally I am a little biased. 

These characters are so memorable and charismatic. They're able to be clever, endearing, cheeky, mischievous, but also extremely vulnerable. Each one made their way into my heart and I don't think there was a precious moment wasted. Was it a little on the nose at times? Sure. Is it sticky sweet and saccharine at others? Oh definitely. But these things don't bring down the book in any way, but only makes it more comforting to the reader who truly resonates with the message of this book. 

Now if you give me a moment, I shall now add each one of T.J.'s books to my to read list.