Merry GIFT-mas...for one and all!

It’s the most MAGICAL time of the year and you know what that means...the holidays have arrived! In all the rush and the fuss, it’s easy to forget to make your own list and check it twice because we all know you’ve been nice...or at least naughty in a “still-on-the-nice-list” kind of way, right? Right! If not, you know you know someone that has, and I’m here to give you a little nudge in the direction of a couple titles that should be on those MUST BUY lists for your gifting needs. So whether you’re shopping for the kiddos, your grandparents, friends, or even yourself, there’s bound to be something bookishly delightful in today’s MERRY GIFT-MAS post! Ready, set, here we go… 

His Dark Materials:  Once Upon a Time in the North (GIFT EDITION)

by Phillip Pullman

Illustrated by Chris Wormell 

Knopf | November 13th, 2023

Once upon a time, I read the His Dark Materials trilogy.  Once upon a time, I was ensconced in the world of the North, Lyra, magical companions, DUST, and so much more.  Once upon a time is here once again in this beautifully rendered tale that sweeps us back into the story with gorgeous illustrations to steal your breath away.   If you read (or watched) any of the first stories, you'll remember Iorek Byrinson (the battle ready bear?) fondly, and even perhaps Lee Scoresby with a kind smile on your face.  This is the story of how they first met, so it's technically a prequel to the original trio of books, but that just means that those familiar and those just stepping into this magicial world are on equal footing.  You get to see the adventure before the biggest battle/quest has begun, while meeting those that will play memorable parts in the tales to come...all while having your eyes dazzled along with your mind because of the rich illustrations throughout.  It's an edition that collector's will adore, but readers will cherish just the same.

Three Tasks for a Dragon

by Eoin Colfer

Illustrated by P.J. Lynch 

Candlewick | October 2023

Dragons are definitely a thing right now (well, I guess they were always a thing, but I digress), and so it should come as no surprise that this tale of knights, dragons, and a maiden with magical powers (of a sort) caught my attention, and I think it might do just that for the readers in your life (even yourself!).  The illustrations are grand, the story one of the ages and yet new all the same, and it's something that can be shared with kiddos embarking on their own knightly quests because who doesn't love a challenge, especially when you get to turn the tables on the one's that sent you!

The Puppets of Spelhorst

by Kate DiCamillo

Illustrated by Julie Morstad 

Candlewick | October 2023

The author alone would have drawn my attention, but when combined with the curious cover and illustrations, and I was sold.  It's a shorter story in length, but big on presentation, and the first in a projected trilogy of tales.  Puppets of different walks of life, sharing a journey to a most unexpected end...but along the way they draw strength from one another, and build courage within to face whatever comes their way.  A tale that begs to be experienced, whether on ones own, or with an audience!

Oliver’s Great Big Universe

by Jorge Cham 

Amulet | September 2023

An 11 year-old boy taking on middle school while tackling subjects like the Big Bang, Mercury, and sun burps?  I can definitely see this one being a draw to fans of the Wimpy Kid series, and even MacKenzie Blue.  It totes the fact that Science is not a subject to be shunned, nor the person who has an interest in it (score one for STEAM!), and elevates the leading lad for his brainy triumphs.  Grant it, he has a side that could end him on the Naughty List, but who doesn't love a challenge, am I right?

Adventure Game Comics: The Beyond

by Jason Shiga 

Amulet | August 2023

Part book, part graphic novel....part story, part literary escape room, this is definitely a CURIOUS read indeed!  Although it is book 2 in the series, it seems to read perfectly fine on its own, and I'm loving the fact that we, the readers, only become privy to things along the way that the author and illustrator want us to.  We don't start out with all the facts, merely a direction, and it's up to us to follow in order to uncover where we are, why we are, and find a way out.  A good selection for hesitant readers, or those wanting to crossover from one reading style to another without embarking on a lengthy tome.

The Little Match Girl Strikes Back

by Emma Carroll

Illustrated by Lauren Child 

Candlewick | September 2023

Most have heard of the classic Little Match Girl, and while it's a story that spans the ages, this one was written for a new generation.  This one takes the sad tale and spins it in a new direction.  No longer is the little girl doomed to spend her last match on dreams and visions, but empowered to spark change in her circumstances and bring about a revolution (of a sort).  I love the powerful retelling, and the striking illustrations scattered throughout where the pops of color really bring it to life.   A great way to introduce the story of yesteryear, while setting the light of forward motion in the hearts of those taking those steps towards the future. 

Outcasts (Ferryman trilogy, Book 3)

by Claire McFall 

Walker Books US | October 2023

OMG.  When I saw this one land on my doorstep, I legit did a happy dance.  No, you don't understand!  If you haven't read any of the Ferryman trilogy, you really don't know what you're missing.  I've read the first, and second...the third (TADA!) is happily added to my own reading list, and I can't recommend this series of books enough for YA lit fans that love the lush world of folklore and legend brought to life, love found against impossible odds, strength found that could conquer death itself, and ultimately the realization of whether all that fighting, all that pushing against the norm was worth it in the end.  DON'T WALK, RUN TO SNAG THIS TRILOGY!

The Temple of Fortuna (The Wolf Den trilogy, Book 3)

by Elodie Harper 

Union Square & Co | November 23rd, 2023

Book three in The Wolf Den trilogy...of which I have still only read the first (don't judge!).  It's not that I didn't like the first one (you can see how much I did or did not right here on my site if you type the title into the little search bar over there on the left), it's just that it took me a bit because it was darker, and heavier than I imagined, and ye olde reading schedule has been a bit overbooked this year (hence to purposefully open December, and a bit of January...but watch out for February! 😁).  Perhaps I can catch a break and sneak back into the set, but this is definitely one for those that like some historical in their fiction, some romantic elements in their literature, but also keep it to the ADULT READERS because some of the topic matter is definitely geared in that direction.  Don't miss what I've heard has been a trilogy that has gotten better and better with each release!

A Holly Jolly Ever After

by Julie Murphy and Sierra Simone 

Avon Books | October 2023

A holiday rom-com with some steamy fun?  Yes please!  Sounds like just to ticket to heat up those cold winter nights...not that it's actually cold down here (we joke that our winter weather passed us last week), but that doesn't mean warming up is frowned at either.  😉  I'd come in from the cold to check out this tale of opposites attract, where catching feelings is easier than dodging a snow ball!

It Had to be a Duke (The Liars’ Club, book 1)

by Vivienne Lorret 

Avon Books | November 28th, 2023

I won this little beauty over on GoodReads (yeah, can you believe it because I STILL can't!), and I'm happy to say it was definitely a title on my wish list...so Merry Christmas to me! 🤶 Spinsters, dukes, enemies to lovers, and fake engagements...color me trope happy!  All I can say is that I love a good Historical Romance and this sounds like a great add to MY reading list, and even more so because it's the first of a new series!  Woo hoo!  Also...GORGEOUS cover, no?

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Special thanks to the publishers, and publicists for the copies for review and feature here today, and to the authors and illustrators for sharing their amazing talent.  (THANK YOU!)  For more information on any titles featured above, feel free to click through the links provided.  Don't forget to snag your copies when you're out and about this holiday season because books are definitely the gift that keeps on giving!

Until next time, happy holidays and remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

October reading SPOOKTACULAR: Spooky reading fun for everyone!

 

Looking for something SPOOKY to add to your October MUST READ list? Here's a few titles to enchant, entertain, and spook-ify everyone in your reading group from the tall to the small! These are all titles I had the pleasure of indulging in recently, so take a look, and see what catches your fancy! 

                      

  

THERE'S A WITCH IN YOUR BOOK by Tom Fletcher (Randomhousekids)

A great book series in picture book and board book versions, tips one falls into the latter and let's readers of all ages get in on the SPOOKY season fun! With a call to interact on each page, it's more than storytime; is an experience. 

THE MONSTERS ON THE BUS (Randomhousekids)

Okay, so it's definitely on the lighter side of the Halloween hubbub, but it DOES feature monsters, even if they are from Sesame Street! This all audience friendly board book gives us a new spin on the classic singalong song of yesterday, but plenty of smiles and silliness along the way. 

POULTRYGEIST by Eric Geron (Candlewick)

I was actually surprised by this one! On the surface, it'll definitely bring some laughter and spooky fun for the kiddos. Between the illustrations, and the plucky turn of events by book's end, the old chicken that crossed the road never looked so enticing. Below the surface from an adult perspective, I was actually a little shocked by the beginning of the tale showing just how our lead chicken became a "geist"... and the persumed continuance of the story circle on the final pages. Again though, surface... kid friendly and funny!

LEILA THE PERFECT WITCH by Flavia Z Drago (Candlewick)

Remember Gustavo? Our little friendly ghost? Well Leila is from the same "series" and her richly illustrated tale brings the spooky-esque fun readers want this time of year, but with timeless lessons for all ages. Perfect is fine and dandy, but perfectly you is the best thing of all!

 

THE WITCH HUNT by Sasha Peyton Smith (Simon Teen )

Read THE WITCH HAVEN? If not, you've some catching up to do. Personal opinion, you need to read the first book in this series before diving into this one. It helps to know the back story, the connections, and all the feels you're stepping into with one... and trust me, there are feels! It was great catching up with the girls again, but oh my heart! I was torn this way and that by both fellas trying to decipher who was being genuine, honest, and there for our girl! Sometimes you have to do things by yourself, but a burden shared is a worry halved, and when a helping hand honestly exists, there is no harm in opening up and letting them in. 

TRESSPASSERS by Claire McFall (Walker Books)

Though I loved all the books in this group, I think this one was one of my favorite! The first book was fantastic, and this second in the planned trilogy was amazing! All the feels, all the new experiences, all the unknowns, all the new souls, and the trouble that's followed them into what was suppose to be their HEA... oh my goodness, I couldn't get enough! 

(happy tears!)

                      

Special thanks to the publishers listed above for the copies for review and the chance to bring these titles to you!  (THANKS!)  For more information on any title listed, the authors, or the publishers, feel free to click on through the links above.  Be on the lookout for each at your favorite online retailer or local brick and mortar store to add some extra SPOOKINESS to your October reading!

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

Make this holiday BOOKISH and bright!

Happy holidays, everyone… 

...and welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers. 

We’re in the home stretch where the holidays are just around the corner and we’re following the example of the jolly man in red as we make our lists and check them twice. If you’re running short on ideas, or simply looking for the perfect gift for those loved ones you’ve yet to check off, I’ve got a great selection of titles to recommend today, all available now for your reading and gifting pleasure! So KEEP READING to see what appeals to you and yours to make this holiday extra merry and bright... 

  

Embassy of the Dead 

Embassy of the Dead: Hangman's Crossing 

by

Will Mabbitt 

Illustrated by

Taryn Knight 

Book 1: 9781536210477 

Book 2: 9781536210484 

Walker Books US 

The first title in the series introduces us to a young man who was in the wrong place at the right time, discovers he is sensitive to ghosts, helps sort one out to earthly contentment and another into passing over, all while trying to inadvertently save the world. Jake Green is quite the character, but Cora, his body-challenged cohort, is nothing to sneer at either. Together, they are an unstoppable force, even if Jake would much rather stop because hello….GHOSTS….and Afterworld….and so much other stuff that he was not bargaining for! The second title in the series has our duo saving the world once again...well, that is if they aren’t too late and can figure out just who is involved and how far into the Embassy the betrayals stem! Danger is afoot, but you can be sure that thanks to dumb luck, blind determination, and a few self-assured moments of clarity...these guys will have it covered! This series has proven with both installments that one can be seriously dedicated to solving a problem that is not your own, and still have a grand time of things too! Filled with humor and heart, it’s a series you won’t want to miss... 

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Middle School Bites: Out for Blood

by 

Steven Banks 

Illustrated by 

Mark Fearing 

9780823446162 

Holiday House 

Have you met Tom the Vam-Wolf-Zom? No? Oh, I couldn’t imagine why not. I mean, he’s just your average middle school kid...who just so happened to be bitten by a vampire, a werewolf, AND a zombie before his first day of 6th grade...what’s so special about that? *cue the bulging eyes and dropped jaw * Yes, Tom is one special kid, and that very special “heritage” is what’ about to get him into a slew of trouble! Honestly, I hadn’t read the first novel, but even so…I found his adventures curious, interesting, and downright humorous! It’s not every day that you meet someone of his lineage and get unwittingly drawn into a battle that’s been raging for eons between these separate paranormal species. Take the time to get to know Tom, and you’ll see he’s just like the rest of us...trying to pick his way along the path of life while staying at a comfortable distance from those who might mean him harm! 

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Ferryman 

by 

Claire Mcfall 

9781536218459 

Walker Books US 

Meeting Dylan and Tristan made this a read to remember. Have you ever wondered what would happen if today, this very moment, was your last? I mean, anything can happen at any time, so it’s always best to live in the moment, but Dylan’s moment but her at a crossroads in life she never saw coming and in the cross hairs of a potential untimely death. The trials and tribulations they go through will mark your heart. The care and understanding shown even when it shouldn’t be possible will grip your soul. The ending will ultimately leave you breathless...but, if you’re anything like me, you’ll quickly take in a gasp of air and wonder aloud at high volumes how on earth the author could simply leave you there?! Trust me, it’s a good exasperated state in this case, but you’ll have to check it out to understand fully. A recommendation for the teen set and beyond in this case, lest little ones dreams turn nightmarish. 

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The Clockwork Crow 

The Velvet Fox 

by 

Catherine Fisher 

Book 1:  9781536222920 

Book 2:  9781536214925 

Walker Books US 

Are you ready to escape from every day life into a world so much like our own and yet filled with magic, mystery, and potentially devious fae set on taking from our world what they deem rightfully theirs? Meet little orphan Seren Rhys...as she embarks on her way to a new life at the remote country mansion of Plas-y Fran. In book one, she’s met with curiosity, and skepticism, from the staff of the estate and warned off from various locations both inside and outside of the house. Why? Well, it seems young master Tomos disappeared some time ago, never to be seen or heard from again...but with enough tenacity, smarts, and the help of an unexpected feathered clockwork friend (term used decidedly loosely at the start), Seren is set to uncover more than she bargained for...yet perhaps make lasting connections she never imagined. In book two, Seren has a few new folks to call friends...until she doesn’t. It seems the house, let alone the household, has come under the influence of some mighty strange goings on...and if things aren’t sorted soon, not only will she be out of a home, but those that have become dear to her may be lost forever. Much magic abounds, but the true messages at heart are of the strength of the family ties we choose, as well as the love for others over simply ourselves. 

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Special thanks to all the publishers listed above for the copies for review.  Whether digital or print, I am ever grateful.  For more information on the books I featured, feel free to click through the links provided for more about the title, publisher, author, and/or illustrator.  All titles are available now, so add a few to your own shelves or pick them up for the gift recipients on your list!

Happy holidays...and happy reading!

Head back to Eerie-on-Sea with... SHADOWGHAST by Thomas Taylor - REVIEW!

Hi there! 

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers. 

Today, we’re getting our SPOOKY on in preparation for the upcoming reading season as we travel back to Eerie-on-Sea with that infamous Lost-and-Founder himself, Herbert Lemon! This time around, he’s going to need all the smarts, all the hopes, and all the friends he can get, because of the few things you can count on in his life, the strange occurrences popping up and him being somehow at its heart is number one! Ready or not, fair readers, today’s book of choice is... 

Shadowghast 

Legends of Eerie-on-the-Sea, Book 3 

by 

Thomas Taylor 

Illustrated by 

Tom Booth 

9781536208603 

Walker Books US 

RELEASE DATE: September 14th, 2021 

About the book... 

In this third adventure, shipwrecked orphan Herbert Lemon, Lost-and-Founder at the Grand Nautilus Hotel, must square off with a creature of town lore as he confronts a shadow from his past. While other towns celebrate Halloween, in Eerie-on-Sea it’s Ghastly Night, and a grim spirit in a lantern awaits its moment. Legend has it that if people fail to light manglewick candles on Ghastly Night, and if no showman conjures shadow puppets on the pier as an offering, the insulted Shadowghast will seize and devour the shadows of the living. This year, a professional theater troupe has been summoned, including a raven-haired magician named Caliastra with startling news of Herbie’s origins. No sooner have the players checked into the hotel than townspeople start vanishing into thin air, including the guardian of Herbie’s best friend, Violet Parma. It’s up to Herbie and Violet to separate truth from sleight of hand and solve the mystery of the Shadowghast lantern before darkness swallows them all. 

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It always feels like coming home when I step into another Eerie-on-Sea book; grant it, in a creepy, spooky, oh my word what will happen THIS time, and is the magical, mechanical monkey going to spit out another perfectly picked title, type of welcome, but who’s family is perfect? 

Herbert Lemon is once again at the heart of this mystery, but in an even BIGGER way. It seems a long lost relative has finally found him...and just in time to put on a performance that will not be soon forgotten in their spooky little town by the sea. Yes, it’s all coming together very nicely, but to what end? I mean, I’m all for Herbert finding his family, or even the other way around, but every find has been attached to a string of mishaps that he and his best friend, Violet Parma, have been lucky enough to get out of...but this time, the stakes are higher, and the loss even bigger! Herbert is plenty capable to save himself, if put to the test, but what about saving the whole town, including his bestie, from a fate worse than death? Will he have the courage? Will he have the know how? Have faith, dear readers, because what Herbert may lack in some of those areas, he more than makes up with HEART...and THAT, my friend, can take you a lot of places in Eerie-on-Sea, let alone life! 

The characters are great, the story spot on, and the adventure was memorable beyond belief.  I love how these tales take you back to this unusual town, immerse you in their culture, and bring to life something thought to only live in the stories we pass from generation to generation.  It feels authentic.  It feels like you could just pick up and drive to this mysterious place, walk right up to the Nautilus, and find Herbert (and friends!) waiting for you with a treasure you don't remember losing, but he managed to find nonetheless.  When the Shadowghast legend began affecting those near and dear to him, it was hard watching him find his way from what he always wanted to what he truly needed...but as I said, he has HEART and a whole lot of it for that matter, making it matter not what he chose in the moment, because when all is said and done, you knew you could count on him.

I wholly invite you to join Herbert and friends for a SPOOKY adventure you won’t soon forget. With secret rooms, secret passages, and secrets upon secrets, you’re just a lost-item-found away from discovering what madness this way comes...and LOVING every moment! It’s a great read for the coming season, or any season, drenched in the things that truly matter...friendship, the true meaning of family, and loads of heart. 

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About the author… 

Thomas Taylor has illustrated many books for young readers, including the graphic novel Scarlett Hart: Monster Hunter by Marcus Sedgwick. He marked his debut as a middle-grade author with Malamander, the first book in the Legends of Eerie-on-Sea series, as well as Gargantis, its sequel. Thomas Taylor lives on the south coast of England. 

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About the illustrator… 

Tom Booth is an art director and the author-illustrator of several acclaimed children’s books, including Don't Blink!,This Is Christmas, and Who Wins?, as well as the illustrator of Malamander and Gargantis. He lives in Brooklyn, New York 

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Special thanks to Raquel at Candlewick Books for the ARC for review. (THANKS!) For more information on this title, the author, the illustrator or the publisher, feel free to click through the links provided above. This title is set to celebrated its book birthday earlier this month via Walker Books US, and imprint of Candlewick Press, click on over to your favorite online retailer or visit your local brick and mortar to snag your copy today! 

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT! 

Middle Grade Magic: THE DRAGON IN THE LIBRARY by Louie Stowell - REVIEW!

HI there!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

Today, we're sharing a little big of Middle Grade Fiction MAGIC as we shine the book spotlight on a newly released title via Walker Books US, a division of Candlewick Press!  It's the first in a NEW SERIES that'll have readers and nonreaders alike clamoring to their local libraries trying to discover just how to REALLY get between the pages...and if that hint of smoke in the air is something other than a stranger's sad cologne.  Why?  Ah, you'll see.  Ladies and gents, get ready for an adventure that confirms all your suspicions...or at least those that are able books being magical portals to other worlds...as we welcome today's book of choice...

The Dragon in the Library

Kit the Wizard, Book 1

by

Louie Stowell

Illustrated by

Davide Ortu

9781536214932

Walker Books US

About the book...

Kit Spencer can’t stand reading. She’d rather be outside playing and getting muddy than stuck inside with a book. But when her best friends, Josh and Alita, drag her to the local library, Kit makes an incredible discovery: she’s a wizard—and books are the key to her abilities. Unfortunately, a greedy businessman wants to tear down the beloved library, destroying all its magic. To make matters worse, there’s a sleeping dragon hidden there, and if she’s awakened, her wild power will wreak havoc. With the help of a friendly dragon-dog hybrid named Dogon, Kit and her companions will have to find a way to save the dragon in the library—and maybe the world! A humorous romp full of library enchantment, with a diverse cast of characters and dynamic illustrations.

In a fast-paced and funny adventure, Kit must use the magic of books to save the library—and its resident dragon—from a power-hungry tycoon.

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Hey, everyone loves a good story...

...so why should it be any different for dragons?

I really LOVED this one!  It was fast paced, funny, filled with adventure, and baddies that NEEDED to be defeated (seriously, taking the library?!  What kind of barbarian are you?!)...and all that is in addition to a nonreader discovering they have magical type powers that allow them to be transported into the stories that surround them, utilizing them as a sort of portal to...well, I can't really say because to do so would be I'd have to tamper with your memory after you read it and if I learned anything from Faith, the uber cool "librarian" (that really IS one, but also not exactly!), that's ALWAYS a last resort!  See Faith, I was paying attention!  

Seriously though, readers of Middle Grade Fiction (and beyond!) will be enthralled by the diverse cast of characters, blown away by the mysteries of the library, and gasping for breath as we bounce from discovery to danger to all out you-must-perform-this-magic-or-it-just-might-be-the-end-of-it-before-it-really-begins moments!  Kit is her own self, and happy to be that way, as are we to meet her!  Her two best friends are different than her, but they celebrate each other's strengths and try to build each other up in times of weakness.  She couldn't have asked for a better duo to share this MASSIVE secret with!  Speaking of secrets, her new (maybe) instructor, Faith, is SO not your regular old wizened and bearded wizardy type teacher, but is a ROCKSTAR just the same. 

All in all, a fabulous MUST READ that I can't wait to visit with again...and when the next installment launches, I AM SO THERE!  Oh and one more thing, the dragon is PHENOMENOL, but watch out for the Dogon!  If I ever find one, I'm totally investing in fireproof EVERYTHING!

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About the author...

Louie Stowell started her career writing carefully researched books about space, ancient Egypt, politics, and science, but eventually she lapsed into just making stuff up. She likes writing about dragons, wizards, vampires, fairies, monsters, and parallel worlds. Louie Stowell currently works as the publisher of Ladybird Books and lives in London with her wife, Karen; her dog, Buffy; and a creepy puppet that is probably cursed.

About the illustrator...

Davide Ortu is an Italian artist who began his career in graphic design before discovering children’s book illustration. He is on a quest to conjure colorful and fantastic places where time stops to offer the biggest emotions to the smallest people. Davide Ortu lives in Spain.

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Special thanks to Raquel at Candlewick Press for the chance to bring this title to you and the copy for review.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title, the author, the illustrator, or the publisher, feel free to click through the links provided above.  This title is available now via Walker Books US, a division of Candlewick Press, so click on over to your favorite online retailer or visit your local brick and mortar today!

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!