Reading Roundup: 2024 Edition - REVIEWS REVIEWS REVIEWS!

Well, it's almost here. The end of another year and the welcome of the next. Can't say how I'm feeling on the whole matter, honestly, with the past year's events, but here we are just the same. Anywho, it's time for a round-up of the titles that crossed my path during this last part of the year, and while it's an interesting spread, they all actually interconnect. Ready to take a closer look and add to your TBR? Let's do this!

A Very Merry 90s Christmas

by

J.T. Kelliher

Illustrated by

Alex Fine

9780593753200

Penguin Workshop

A holly jolly tribute to all things 90s, every kid who grew up in this decade, was raised by it, or is simply a fan, will revel in the moments, love the remembrance, and celebrate the moments.  From Furbies to Uncle Jesse, the Spice Girls to Macaulay, Alanis to Mrs. Doubtfire, there's nary a movie, TV show, or pop culture reference missed...and I LOVED IT!  It was whimsical and fun, and a great way to say "I will always love you" to a time that brought us such joy!

Now that we've got the CELEBRATION started, let's keep the party rolling...

Fail-a-bration 

by

Brad and Kristi Montague

Dial Books for Young Readers

That's right.  The title is FAIL-a-bration...subtitle, You tried.  You missed.  You're invited.  Curious?  You should be because this is one that's really for all ages.  It reminds us that no one likes to fall short of their goals, but EVERYONE does at some point in their lives, and THAT'S OKAY.  Those moments shouldn't bring us down, but lift us up because we've made it through something, tried something new, and learned something.  Now, the next time we set out to do the thing that needed doing, we're THAT much wiser, and have that much more of a chance at success.  I love the fact that it gives IDEAS at book's end for how to throw your own fail-a-bration because truthfully, when we fall down, those are the moments we need a friendly face, or helping hand the most.  Alongside the positive messages, the illustrations need to be noted as well,  They really capture the eye because they aren't simply drawn, but created.  They're made from pencil and ink, crayon and marker, but also actual pictures and textures, making you want to reach out and touch...another way to stoke your creativity.

Now, we've gone into party mode, and made new FRIENDS, but even with all that joy, we can still get a touch of the BOOS...

Feeling Boo

by

Alex Boniello and April Lavalle

Illustrated by

Olivia Chin Mueller

9781419772443

Abrams Books for Young Readers

This is the story of Ollie and Ellie who've been friends for many, MANY years.  Both before and after life, they've stuck together like birds of a feather, and in their current times have loads of fun floating here and there, visiting old friends, floating furniture about, and other harmless mischief to pass the days.  One day, Ollie wakes up without that bounce in his float, lacking that smile on his sheet, I mean, face, and just generally not feeling his best self.  He has a case of the BOOs (which we pulse ridden beings refer to as the BLUES), and while his best friend means well with every activity, and well thought out adventure, sometimes they can't be broken with merely distraction.  They have to be felt...and it never hurts to have a great friend by your side to simply just BE.  I love the gentle, yet playful hand that was lent to the story's heavy topic, and the illustrations give readers even more to explore with their artfully hidden surprises.  Speaking of surprises, be sure to check out the unde-cover for another smile waiting to be had even before you crack open the cover!

Now, we've experienced feelings that were less than welcome, but we made it through with the help of FRIENDS which brings us to our next gem...

When Digz the Dog Met Zurl the Squirrel

by

Chris Pine

Illustrated by

Chuck Groenink

9780593528228

Flamingo Books

This charming animal tail, I mean TALE, tells of a kingly dog and a queenly squirrel that share more than a backyard domain.  They both have moments in their past that were less than pleasant, he being at the shelter, and her having the shortest tale in her family, but when they come face to face with the truth...that they aren't really as different as they might at first seem...they come to understand each other and a new harmony is brought to their green garden kingdom.  I love that both their differences and sameness were celebrated, and the illustrations really bring them both to life; he with his sweet demeanor, and her with her sassy attitude.  Once they become dear friends, their shared space and days are that much brighter for it. A great TAIL of friendship coming in all shapes and sizes, and a reminder that bullying is never the answer...and another book to check out the unde-cover on!  While the book cover itself is fun, the unde is classic storybook.

Speaking of BULLYING and animals showing you the way...

Perla The Mighty Dog

by

Isabel Allende

Illustrated by

Sandy Rodriguez

9780593623596

Philomel

Perla may be little but she is MIGHTY...and, as she'd happily tell you, she has TWO superpowers.  One is she can make everyone like her...big and small alike!  The second is her mighty ROAR!  Don't believe me?  You should know by now that big things come in small packages.  The thing is that Perla is happy to share her powers with her friend Nico...it's just that the human world may not be quite ready for someone with Perla's powers.  *giggle*  Honestly, I loved this book from the adorable cover (and unde-cover!  So cute!) to the final turn of the page.  Perla is a wonderful four-legged friend and shows us just how loving and selfless they can truly be, while reminding us that size doesn't in fact matter.  Nico is a fabulous friend and owner, but needs a little help with a bully at his school.  Lucky for him, Perla reveals her secret to success, and just how that plays out in the schoolyard may bring a smile or two, but an effective end to him being pushed around!  Readers young and young at heart will be delighted with the colorful illustrations as well as the touch of magic left behind by the magic dust from wizard's past, while appreciating the pearls of wisdom imparted before we're bid a good night.

Now, speaking of friendship, bullying, and a touch of MAGIC...

The Wild Ones

by

Megan Lacera and Jorge Lacera

Illustrated by

Jorge Lacera

9780892394524

Children's Book Press

It's a storybook presented in a comic book style with thought bubbles, who's who end pages to illustrate the mythical (or are they?) monsters within, and brilliant colors utilized throughout.  The Wild Ones isn't simply the title, but also the claimed name of the foursome of friends pictured on the cover.  Valentina, Jasmine, Andy, and Xander bring the flavor both from their own backgrounds, and their imaginations.  They've banned together not only against the bullies at school because it's much easier to turn the other cheek when you're too busy laughing at a friend's joke, but also against the construction company aiming to tear down the place they call home.  Through their beliefs in something bigger than themselves, and a celebration of each of their heritages, the day just might be saved in a MONSTROUSLY surprising way. 

Now that we made a leap to the magical, and a mention of heritage and things from the PAST, let's "check out" our next title...

Behind My Doors: The Story of the World's Oldest Library

by

Hena Khan

Illustrated by

Nabila Adani

9781643794235

Lee & Low Books

If you've anything like me, you LOVE books about books, and this one isn't just about books, but about a LIBRARY, so yeah...SO MANY BOOKS!  It's not just the books though, or where they were/are housed, but about how it came to be, the live it saw within its walls, the still time in between when all seemed forgotten and about to fall into disrepair, and the special heart that helped bring it back to its original brilliancy and then some.  Did you know that the oldest library is the Al-Qarawiyyin Library in Fez, Morocco?  Did you know it was built in 859?  Did you know it was founded by a Muslim WOMAN?  Did you know that the one who helped bring it back to life was also a woman?  Yeah, that would be a no on all accounts from me, but I was so interested in learning more.  This is a great way to expose young readers to the magic that can be born from the written word, and that anyone can follow their dreams to fruition.  You never know just how far you can go, or how far your dream will carry others, if you don't give it a chance!  A wonderful addition to the edutainment arena, and a great pick for both story time and bedtime reading.

Speaking of LIBRARIES and MAGIC, I've got another adventure between the pages for you to explore...

The Night Librarian:  A Graphic Novel

by

Christopher Lincoln

with Color Assistance by

Bonaia Rosado

9780593617656

Dial Books for Young Readers  

The magic of LIBRARIES is a well known thing for readers, but those being newly welcomed into the fold may not truly understand the caliber of wonder that can be experienced...and if we take into account everything that happens in THIS story, there's even MORE than we bargained for!  In this full color graphic novel, Page and Turner are about to learn about a whole new level of mystery that lives within the walls of the New York Public Library...and all libraries for that matter.  It seems that much like the movie The Night Museum, things aren't always what they seem at night between the stacks.  It seems that the magic contained within the books, especially those that have aged to perfection and are longing for a few pages to be turned, doesn't really like to stay contained.  It seems that the stories and characters like to escape the pages from time to time and experience something different, or at the least a break, from the same old same old.  Too bad for this brother sister duo that their induction into this secret society type system starts with the disappearance of their father's treasured copy of Dracula...because they had absolutely NOTHING to do with it.  I mean, they didn't take it from their home library, or let it escape without being able to locate it at a place that houses books upon books upon books.  What?   Yes, I said LET IT ESCAPE because that's pretty much what happens, and yet that's not the whole story here IN THE LEAST.  A magic filled tale of the power of the written word and just how much of an escape reading can truly be.

Last but not least, we touched on the relationship of SIBLINGS, which brings us to the final book in our round-up...

Twin Flames

by

Olivia Abtahi

9781643790435

Tu Books

About the book...

Twins Bianca and Leila could not be more different from each other. Being both Argentinian and Iranian in a small town has always been hard, but with Leila shunning her heritage and Bianca embracing it, the two walk very different paths. They run in different circles of friends, and barely talk anymore. Leila's a homebody who loves to craft and plans on marrying her high school sweetheart. Bianca's more anti-establishment and plans to get out of Dodge as soon as humanly possible.

But on their eighteenth birthday, the neighbor's barn mysteriously burns down. When Leila encounters a monster–a djinn–arising from the fire, suddenly she gains strange powers and can no longer touch iron.

What do these djinn want with Leila–or other people in town, for that matter? Can the twins learn to rely on each other–and their cultures–to banish them? It'll take a sisterly reconciliation for the girls to find out and to save their hometown in this New Visions Award-winning fantasy adventure.

 

...and while I've not delved between the pages of this one yet, it sounds like a fantastic premise that explores sibling relationships, family heritage, and has a healthy dose of MAGIC.  So yeah, I'm in!

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Special thanks to all the promotional teams for the chance to bring these titles to you as well as the copies for review.  (THANKS!)  For more information on any of the titles above, feel free to click through the links provided...and don't be afraid to add more than one to your TBR, a new year is on the horizon!  😉

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

This DOUBLE Book Birthday has gone to the dogs!

Tuesdays are for the bookish because it's NEW RELEASE day, and today, we're celebrating not one, but TWO titles out now (or very soon!) via Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing.  Both titles take the cake as they bring us stories featuring our furry four-legged friends, and, in the case of the first one, their human counterparts.  There is fun to be had and lessons to be learned, so lets get between the pages of today's selections...

Walkin' the Dog

by

Chris Lynch

9781481459204

Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers

Release Date: March 12th, 2024

About the book...

In a family of strong personalities with very strong points of view, Louis is what his mother lovingly calls “the inactivist,” someone who’d rather kick back than stand out. He only hopes he can stay under the radar when he starts high school in the fall, his first experience with public school after years of homeschooling.

But when a favor for a neighbor and his stinky canine companion unexpectedly turns into a bustling dog-walking business, Louis finds himself meeting an unprecedented number of new friends—both human and canine. Agatha, a quippy and cagey girl his age always seems to be telling two truths and a lie. Cyrus, a few years his senior, promises he’s going to show Louis how to be a better person, whether Louis wants him to or not. And then there are the dogs: misbehaving border terriers, the four (possible stolen) sausage dogs, the rest of Louis’s charges, and a mysterious white beast who appears at a certain spot at the edge of the woods.

Dogs and human alike all seem to have something they want to teach Louis, including his menacing older brother who keeps turning up everywhere. But is Louis ready to learn the lesson he needs most: how to stop being a lone wolf and be part of a pack.

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =

This one really hit home.

Louis is a kid that's facing the inevitable...growing up.  Life waits for no one, and his is certainly taking an active turn into the fast lane of late.  With his mom being away getting the help she needs, the human buffer in his life that helps him look at things in different ways while providing comfort through those growing pains is no where to be found. A Zoom call is not the same in this situation, and visiting hours are awfully short to sort out life's problems.  True, he has other family, but he's just learning how to reconnect with dad, his sister is well, his sister, and specializes in telling him what to do, and his older brother is best left out of the picture more often than not.  In short, his familiar world is in shambles, but there are still things that can bring in some light to the darkness.  His new dog walking business for one, and Aggie for another...but none of these connections are as straight forward as they at first seem, nor do they mean he'll be sheltered from heartache.  The best he can do is take it one day at a time, build the relationships, make the connections, and learn that while we might not always get what we want, there are ways to get what we need, and help those around us find that same sense of home.

I really took my time through this one as the story wasn't just CHARACTERS, PLOT, TWIST, and ENDING.  There was a lot going on even when barely anything was being said, and the author really lets you into the mind of young Louis to explore those feelings, that confusion, as well as delight in the moments when understanding dawns.  I appreciated meeting Cy, and celebrated knowing the force that was Aggie even when their lives weren't painted in the brightest colors.  It had a healthy dose of reality with a reminder that families aren't just made by blood, but also by choice.  You can be that person to somebody, if only you're willing to take a step in their direction.

🐾   🐾   🐾   🐾   🐾   🐾   🐾   🐾   🐾   🐾

The Great Puptective

The Great Puptective, Book 1

By

Alina Tysoe

Illustrated by

Alina Tysoe

9781665938242

Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers

Release Date: March 19th, 2024

About the book...

Truffles the cat is the only pet in the house and reigns in peace and quiet, only exerting himself to find the best place to take a nice, long nap—preferably in a spot of warm sunshine. Then Poppy the puppy bursts onto the scene.

Poppy is loud, enthusiastic, excitable, and—worst of all—a puptective! She’s got an eye for crime and a nose to solve all mysteries that come her way…even though she’s not completely sure what a mystery is.

Truffles cannot let this intrusion stand. Poppy won’t be able to continue disrupting his precious me-time if she’s shipped to the North Pole! But could this irrepressible new companion be just what this grumpy cat needs?

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =

This was the CUTEST!  😍

Poppy is BEYOND adorable.  She's the new puppy in town, well...the only puppy in town, and she's ready to explore, take on the world, and solve all the mysteries a puptective can...as soon as she finds out what the mystery to be solved IS exactly!  No worries...Truffles is HAPPY to help her out.  Yeah, and if you believe that, I have some swampland in Florida to sell you that houses buried treasure.  *ahem*  Suffice it to say that Truffles isn't exactly happy about his new "friend" and, just like siblings are apt to do, she gets on his last nerve, making his mission clear...he must get Poppy to move on out, so he can have his peaceful domain to himself once again.  That would be the perfect ending to this unwanted introduction...until it isn't.  You see, the more time you spend around someone, the more you get to know them, and the more you get to know them, the more you might kinda sorta not want to admit it but realize it even in the smallest part of your mind that you like them  The company, the interactions, and goodness forbid you mention the fun they bring to everyday things...Truffles is in for an unexpected awakening...but will it be too late?  *dun dun dunnn*

You'll laugh, you'll awww, you'll want to give them a big ole hug and call it a day, but as much as it is an adorable story about a dog and a cat, it also helps kiddos with life situations beyond those of the furry variety.  The lessons shared extend to the relationship shared between siblings, as well as when they meet someone new that could be a potential friend.  It helps them to see that NEW or DIFFERENT isn't a bad thing...it adds the spice to life, or the footprints to an otherwise clean floor.  It mixes things up, and helps us grow, while enriching our lives in ways we can't always measure.  With ridiculously cute illustrations throughout, you won't want to miss the kick off to this new series!

🐾   🐾   🐾   🐾   🐾   🐾   🐾   🐾   🐾   🐾

Special thanks to author Gracie Ruth Mitchell for the chance to be a part of her early read and review team. (THANK YOU!) For more information on this title, or the author, feel free to click through the links provided above. This title is available TODAY, so click on over to your favorite online retailer to snag your copy now.

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

For Auld Lang Syne: Say Goodbye to 2023 with a Few Great Reads!

HI there!

Long time, no blog post...I know, I know. Tis the season for all the holiday hubbub, and between getting things ready at home, surviving the chaos at work, my fur kid being in the hospital, etc...this Christmas didn't exactly turn out how I might have hoped. But I digress, one area that HAS been good is the READING, and so, I give you today's roundup of titles that are a great pick for your personal reading, gift giving/exchanging ideas, or an easy peasy way to spend those gift cards that you might have received!  So wish 2023 adieu and welcome 2024 with a start on your MUST READ list.

 Ready? Set? READ ALL ABOUT IT...

Maddie's Ghost

by

Carol Fisher Saller

9798986235349

Duckweed Books

Labeled for the upper-Middle-Grade crowd, this touching story tells the tale of Lainie Stanton and Madeleine, her infamous great grandmother.  I won't go into details on the story itself as it definitely keeps its air of mystery throughout, but I will touch on a few factors that endeared it to me.  I loved the family ties that were built into the story.  From her many uncles to the echoes of the past, Lainie was not alone, and that's important to know at any age or stage of life.  I appreciated the other side of the story presented when we were investigating Madeleine's past.  True, it was touch and go because of the ghostly memories leading the way, but it reminded us that a story has more than one side, and what may have been presented as gospel truth could in fact be hiding something much bigger, much more important.  I enjoyed the chance to uncover the truth alongside Lainie, never once feeling like we were kept in the dark.  I admit I had my thoughts on how things would turn out, but it didn't lessen my enthusiasm for the moments of discovery as they occurred.

A great read with a touch of paranormal for the designated age group and beyond!

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The Paris Notebook

by

Tessa Harris

9780008564445

HQ

Oh my word!  My only regret with this one is not having had enough time earlier in the month to bring it to you.  I quite literally finished reading this just the other night, and, if you're a Historical Fiction fan, you don't want to miss it!  I find myself reading a lot of works in this genre that took place around WWII, and this one is no exception.  The tale opens with a moment in the future with an immediate jump to the past to reveal how we ended up where we were; all because of a madman, and a notebook that could betray him.  When I say I started this one and didn't want to put it down, I am not exaggerating.  The characters come to life right off the page, the settings whisk you away to see them firsthand, and while the events transpiring are tragic to say the least, there is still beauty found, moments of hope, and pockets of resilience to fight for another day.  I cried for Katja more times than I can count.  I worried for Doctor Viktor and yet silently praised his delayed bravery.  I took a shine to Daniel who was still trying to heal, and yet so ready to share the darkest corners of his heart.  I befriended Sylvia because she was such a force, and yet a very good friend.  My book's end, my emotions were raw from the seemingly endless roller coaster, and yet there were surprises STILL to come...but I wouldn't trade a moment of it!

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A Holly Jolly Ever After

by

Julie Murphy and Sierra Simone

9780063222649

Avon Books

Okay, so we're stepping away from the historical and right into Contemporary Romance, but, and I don't say this lightly, it comes with A LOT OF SPICE.  We're talking cinnamon candy canes served with hot chocolate spiked with Tabasco sauce (if ONLY that!), so if you're strictly a closed door reader, do not embark on this read.  Capisce? (Understand?)  Good, good, now let's talk about a story that's a bit more naughty.

As I said, there is A LOT going on here, but despite the front and center "stuff", it's not JUST about that.  There's so much more going on than who's riding in Santa's sleigh tonight (*ahem*).  It's a story about family, and not just those related by blood because they don't always turn out to be the ones that have your back.  It's about being comfortable being you, and not accepting the shame others put on you for being or doing something different than they think you should.  It's about finding your own path in this world regardless of your upbringing.  Let's face it, parents are winging it too, and Winnie really got the cream of the crop in that department, but once she fell from grace, so to speak, she was inadvertently freed from having to tow the line they laid out.  Once she took a step in a direction that was of her own choosing, she experienced more of life, and love than she believed possible.  Of course, we also get a bit of an education in the adult film industry, and see the unfortunate side effects of having one too many and dancing on a stage with "Santa's helpers", but even those moments have their place and time, and really a lot of those involved were better to her and for her than any of the "clean cut" crew she was formerly attached to.  Basically don't judge a book by it's cover, or a person by their line of work.  We all have multiple sides to us, and we all deserve to be loved for our whole selves.

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Keeper of the Lost Cities:  The Graphic Novel, Part 1

by

Shannon Messenger

Adapted by Celina Freen

Illustrated by Gabriella Chianello

9781534463363

Aladdin  |  Simon & Schuster

A young girl different from others at her school, and for most of her life, who is simply trying to fit in when she was meant to stand out, comes into her own in a world she didn't know existed, where her abilities are powers, and there are others like her, yet perhaps not as powerful...but the truth of why her past was hidden from her, might be the best kept secret of all...with unknown consequences if revealed.

This is a book series that I've always been curious about.  That being said, this is my first venture into it, and while I appreciated the grand scale of the artwork as well as the storytelling, I'm not certain that it was my best choice for giving this one a chance.  I liked it, I truly did, but I think I needed the details that a novel tends to have, and a graphic novel tends to drop.  There's nothing bad about the latter option, but this reader needed a little more "meat" to get by.  So, if you're a fan of the series, I say GO FOR IT.  If you're a Graphic Novel lover, take a chance!  If you're interested in the series, but new to it, and only dabble in the visual side of reading, I think you'd best stick with me and go for the full length novel first.

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The Enchanted Symphony

by

Julie Andrews and Emma Walton Hamilton

Illustrated by Elly MacKay

9781419763199

Abrams Kids

In this GORGEOUSLY illustrated storybook, we gain visual clarity of the loss we suffered as a people across the world when COVID-19 struck its mighty blow.  It shut the world down in portions at a time, and made gathering impossible for the sake of saving lives, and while that hurt us on a personal level, we still had electronic ways to connect...but what about those that made their living performing.  What about those that gave of themselves to bring joy, entertainment, and moments of escape to our lives?  True, you can tune into a recorded performance, download a movie, or listen to a collection of songs, but the impact of experiencing those live and in person, sitting/standing alongside others ensconced in the moment...there's nothing quite like it.  Whether you're listening to the masters of the age, seeing an on Broadway or way off Broadway performance, or collectively viewing the latest Hollywood has to offer, the moments are much different when experienced first hand.  COVID-19 stole those moments, and the livelihood of those that put them on display for us...but accepting defeat was like turning the lights off on the stage, or drawing the final curtain.  We had to hold on.  We had to have hope.  This story tells of the efforts of an artistic director in Barcelona, and the celebration they threw in honor of the arts...to an audience of plants.  Sounds absurd?  Well, so does having everyone in lock down 24/7, but it still happened and the world was better for it.  A tale to be shared with the young and young at heart, today and always.

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Fancy Meeting You Here

by

Julie Tieu

9780063245198

Avon Books

It's an opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine romcom that doesn't exactly end as brilliantly as I would have liked, but it stays true to characters just the same.  Elise and Ben are not the most obvious pair, and, quite honestly, I had a hard time picturing them together with the amount of time they spent apart, but I enjoyed getting to know more about each as the story progressed.  She had dreams and aspirations while being unable to say no to her friends, to the point that she was putting her own business on the line.  He had dreams, but the plans kept changing, and with his family in the political spotlight, it was pretty hard to catch a break away from that arena.  They both wanted to make it on their own, and oftentimes got in their own way, but the good, the bad, and the ultimately ugly they go through, brings them closer to the reality they both are reaching for.

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Courtesy of Cupid

by

Nashae Jones

9781665949279

Aladdin  |  Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing

RELEASE DATE:  01/02/24

This one is just getting ready to hit bookstore shelves, so I'm SO HAPPY to bring you the scoop pre pub!  (*yay me!*)  Cue the hearts and arrows aiming at mere mortals just looking for a connection...but get ready to change your mind about the diapered baby supposedly firing them!  This Middle Grade Fiction title is bringing the house and hallowed school halls down on the myths of old, as cupid turns out to be dear old mysteriously not around dad, and apparently his offspring get a bit of the power side of things as a kickback from that parentage.  I mean, it's the perfect time to unleash emotionally charged magic on a kid, right?  I mean who wouldn't want to throw the fate of happiness and love into the hands of a potentially angsty THIRTEEN YEAR OLD?!  Oye, I'm face palming here if only you could see me.

The thing is...this book not only brings the diversity in books readers are looking for, but the FUN too!  It may not appear to be relateable, but check this out...embarrassing parental units, uncontrollable feelings, uncertainty in love, unwanted face offs with friends, frenemies that shouldn't have been, and all while simply trying to navigate this one righteously individual life we've been given....am I right?  Are you feeling Erin's "pain" yet?  Don't worry...we all share it, in some fashion, and she's a smart cookie.  She'll figure it out in the end...it just might take a little extra embarrassment on her part, a little more truth shared with others as well as her self, and a bit of admitting she may not have been totally right (in using those powers without reading the handbook!).  Fans of the genre, make this the top of your list!

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Many many thanks to all the publishers, publicists, and authors that contributed to this final 2023 review roundup.  (THANK YOU!)  For more information on any of the titles listed, feel free to click through the links provided above.  All are available now with the exception of CUPID, but it's just about to join the others on a bookstore shelf near you.  I'd also like to thank my readers for sharing in this bookish journey with me.  We're sending 2023 off with a bang, but there's plenty more in store come 2024.

Until NEXT YEAR 😉, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

WHAT'S THE BUZZ?: Duel by Jessixa Bagley, Illustrated by Aaron Bagley - REVIEW!

We've been doing a lot of pre release reading recently, and so our WHAT'S THE BUZZ feature is getting a workout!  Ready to get EXCITED about another upcoming release?  FABULOUS because it's definitely ready and waiting in the wings for you.  Middle Grade fans, this one is in your court, and technically it will have a larger audience than that due to the format (Graphic Novel!), and content (siblings at odds with each other!).  Fair warning, the loss of a parent is an underlying topic here, and how it can affect relationships beyond the one between the departed and themselves, but I think it's handled rather well...showing both the progress towards taking that next step, as well as the hard times that can be had even trying to get there.  But I digress, let's get between the pages of today's book of choice...

Duel

by

Jessixa Bagley

Illustrated by

Aaron Bagley

9781534496545

Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

Release Date:  11/07/23

About the book...

Sixth grader Lucy loves fantasy novels and is brand-new to middle school. GiGi is the undisputed queen bee of eighth grade (as well as everything else she does). They’ve only got one thing in common: fencing. Oh, and they’re sisters. They never got along super well, but ever since their dad died, it seems like they’re always at each other’s throats.

When GiGi humiliates Lucy in the cafeteria on the first day of school, Lucy snaps and challenges GiGi to a duel with high sisterly stakes. If GiGi wins, Lucy promises to stay out of GiGi’s way; if Lucy wins, GiGi will stop teasing Lucy for good. But after their scene in the cafeteria, both girls are on thin ice with the principal and their mom. Lucy stopped practicing fencing after their fencer dad died and will have to get back to fighting form in secret or she’ll be in big trouble. And GiGi must behave perfectly or risk getting kicked off the fencing team.

As the clock ticks down to the girls’ fencing bout, the anticipation grows. Their school is divided into GiGi and Lucy factions, complete with t-shirts declaring kids’ allegiances. Both sisters are determined to triumph. But will winning the duel mean fracturing their family even further?

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I don't indulge in Graphic Novels very often, but when I do, they usually make quite an impression. Such was certainly the case here!

These two siblings used to be close as close could be, tethered together by their love of family. Grant it, when they started growing up and attempting to compete for the attention of their Dad, things got a bit heated, but that's life in a family with siblings. The thing is... their parents loved them both equally, but tragedy struck and a wedge was driven between them all they just can't seem to break free from, nor muster the desire to even try. No, it's much easier to lash out at the ones left behind. It's much easier to blame others for missing things you should be doing. It's much harder to face the truth and admit how painful the loss truly is, how it's tearing you up, and how you just don't know how to get around it. 💔  

As angry as these two were, it was hard to see their confrontations as anything other than a cry for help they didn't know how to truly voice. Their mom was just as lost, trying her hardest, but adrift from grief. Losing someone you love is traumatic. It takes time to resurface and what that looks like on the other side of happiness can be completely different than what you started with... and that's okay. It's the getting through it that's important. It has to be felt. It has to be talked about, and allowed into the light. No two people grieve the exact same way... even sisters... but that doesn't mean we can't be there for each other, something these girls eventually figure out by book's end. 

Aside from the emotional dynamic of the story, we also get a lot of instruction in regards to fencing! Between the girls' interests, their father's instruction, and the great big duel the story is building to, just try walking away without picking up a few new words, or a better understanding of the sport. Betcha can't! A great read for genre fans, those with siblings, and those who've experienced loss.

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About the author...

Jenny Jiminez

Jessixa Bagley is children’s book author-illustrator with a background in fine art and comics. She has had work featured in publications such as New American Paintings, The Chicago Reader, Nickelodeon Magazine, and Highlights Magazine. Her first picture book, Boats for Papa, received numerous awards and accolades including the 2016 SCBWI Golden Kite Award for picture book text and a 2016 Washington State Book Award. Her picture book Laundry Day received a 2018 Ezra Jack Keats Honor Award for writing. Many of her picture books are also Junior Library Guild Selections. In her work, she’s drawn to animals and emotional themes often inspired by her own experiences. Jessixa also teaches and speaks about writing and illustration. She often illustrates for other writers and artistically collaborates with her husband, Aaron Bagley. Jessixa lives in Seattle with her husband and son.

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About the illustrator...

Jenny Jiminez

Aaron Bagley is a human man who draws for a living. He likes to draw what he observes (people, boats, cats) and what he experiences (dreams, feelings, life events). His work has been featured in The Virginia Quarterly Review, The Stranger, The Seattle Weekly, The Seattle Review of Books, and many more. Above all else, Aaron loves collaborating with his wife, Jessixa. Together, they’ve created picture book Vincent Comes Home and middle grade graphic novel Duel.

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Special thanks to Antonella at Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing for the chance to share this title with you and for 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 celebrates its BOOK BIRTHDAY November 7th, 2023, so mark your calendar or pre order your copy today!

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

Rockstar Book Tours presents... DOOR TO DOOR, NIGHT BY NIGHT Vol 1 by Cullen Bunn & Sally Cantirino - REVIEW + GIVEAWAY!

Ready for some chills and thrills? Today, I'm hosting a spot on the DOOR to DOOR, NIGHT by NIGHT Vol. 1 by Cullen Bunn & Sally Cantirino Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours... that promises just that. Check out my review post and make sure to enter the giveaway before you stop by the other sites for more bookish fun!

DOOR to DOOR, NIGHT by NIGHT Vol. 1 : A World Full of Monsters

Author: Cullen Bunn & Sally Cantirino (Illustrations)

Pub. Date: July 25, 2023

Publisher: Vault Comics

Formats: Paperback, eBook

Pages: 128

Find it: Goodreads, https://books2read.com/DOOR-to-DOOR-NIGHT-by-NIGHT-Vol-1

A supernatural horror thriller splattered with dark humor in the vein of Grady Hendrix (My Best Friend’s Exorcism), Stranger Things, Welcome to Night Vale, Supernatural, and the Midnight, Texas series (Charlaine Harris), DOOR TO DOOR, NIGHT BY NIGHT Vol. 1: A World Full of Monsters tells the tale of a traveling sales team who find that once certain doors open, they are impossible to close.

SALES PEOPLE BY DAY. MONSTER HUNTERS BY NIGHT.

It’s 1987, and the Heritage Mills sales team travels from town to town, knocking on doors. They're the best at what they do... which also means they're the worst. They're broken, each and every one of them, haunted by closets so full of skeletons, they’re bursting. When they discover a terrible secret behind one fateful door, it opens their eyes to a world full of real monsters hidden in every small town.

Knock, knock. What’s there? Open the door if you dare…

From all-star creators, writer Cullen Bunn (Harrow County, The Last Book You’ll Ever Read) and artist Sally Cantirino (I Walk With Monsters, Human Remains) comes the story of a motley crew going to battle against supernatural evil throughout the American South.

For fans of the devilishly delicious blend of nostalgic horror and dark humor, small town secrets, moonlight fright, Stranger Things, Welcome to Night Vale, My Best Friend’s Exorcism, IT, Summer of Night, The Pallbearer’s Club, The Autumnal, Proctor Valley Road, Gideon Falls, The Boys, B.P.R.D., and Something Is Killing the Children.

Volume 1 collects issues #1-4 of the smash 12-issue series!

"It's all kinds of demon-hunting, low-life fun!" -- Cavan Scott (Comic writer, screenwriter & New York Times bestselling author. STAR WARS: THE HIGH REPUBLIC; TITANS UNITED; SHADOW SERVICE; THE WARD; DEAD SEAS).

“Bunn and Cantirino, as a collaborative team, create a unique, beautiful, and terrifying world filled with monsters we could not imagine.” – Gatecrashers

“…this kind of horror storytelling … delivers across the board.” – The Fandom Post

“A beautiful example of the merging of humor and horror.” – Gatecrashers

“…delivers on its promise …This is absolutely worth picking up.” – Comicon.com

“…supernatural horror at its best.” – Capes and Tights

 

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Vault Comics never fail to surprise me.

I went into this one thinking...hey, a collection of SCARY stories perfect for the upcoming reading season! I came out of it...reeling from the out there, oh-my-word-what-the-heck did I just see/read of it all, and STILL thinking, yeah...great pick for the upcoming reading season, just for older teen, or adult audiences.

Inside, the dark graphics, and well penned panels, combine with the dialog to pull readers in for a story of misfits, loners, and those that follow their own path, taking on more than just another day "at the office". No, their eyes are about to be opened to so much more than they ever knew, or even wanted to know, and, despite their desire to, they won't be able turn away. Things lurk in the night. Crazy things hide in the dark. Evil lurks in the hearts and minds of those you wouldn't suspect, and those you wouldn't want to. Between these pages, some of those come to light...and some come to a sudden, and somewhat disturbing, end.

A great pick for genre and format fans, as well as those looking to add to their seasonal, spooky, creepy, supernaturally charged to-read list.

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About Cullen Bunn:

Cullen Bunn is a New York Times bestselling author and prolific writer of horror/supernatural comics series and graphic novels including THE SIXTH GUN, HARROW COUNTY, BONE PARISH, THE DAMNED, THE EMPTY MAN, THE GHOUL NEXT DOOR, BASILISK, SHADOWMAN, and many other titles including The Last Book You'll Ever Read for Vault Comics. He has fought for his life against mountain lions and performed on stage as the World’s Youngest Hypnotist.

 

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Goodreads | Amazon  | BookBub

 

About Sally Cantirino:

Sally Cantirino is a comic artist and illustrator currently based in New Jersey. She has been self-publishing comics and zines since she was a teenager. Her recent comics work includes I Walk With Monsters and Human Remains for Vault Comics,  “The Final Girls”, “Last Song”, and “We Have To Go Back”. She has also done artwork for World Champ Game Co and bands like La Dispute and Murder By Death.

Website | Twitter | Instagram | TikTok | Goodreads

 

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*** Giveaway ***

2 winners will receive a finished copy of DOOR to DOOR, NIGHT by NIGHT Vol. 1, US Only.

Ends August 15th, midnight EST.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Special thanks to Rockstar Book Tours for the chance to bring this tour to you and to Vault Comics for 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, so seek thee out a copy at your favorite brick and mortar or online store. Be sure to catch the rest of the tour for more bookish fun...

Tour Schedule:

Week One:

7/17/2023	Ramblings of a Coffee Addicted Writer	Review/IG Post
7/18/2023	@enjoyingbooksagain	IG Review
7/19/2023	Character Madness and Musings	Interview
7/20/2023	The Book Countess	Review/IG Post
7/21/2023	Fieldstone_lfl	IG Review/LFL Drop Pic
7/22/2023	Tara’s Book Addiction	IG Post

Week Two:

7/23/2023	Sadie's Spotlight	Interview
7/24/2023	A Dream Within A Dream	Excerpt
7/25/2023	Writer of Wrongs	Excerpt
7/26/2023	Locks, Hooks and Books	Review
7/27/2023	Brandi Danielle Davis	Review/IG Post
7/28/2023	#BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog	Excerpt/IG Post
7/29/2023	@by_hckilgour	IG Review

Week Three:

7/30/2023	A Blue Box Full of Books	IG Review/LFL Drop Pic/TikTok Post
7/31/2023	Bookish In Bed	Review/IG Post
8/1/2023	Books With a Chance	Review/IG Post
8/2/2023	Country Mamas With Kids	Review/IG Post
8/3/2023	Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers	Review/IG Post
8/4/2023	OneMoreExclamation	Review/IG Post
8/5/2023	celiamcmahonreads	Review/IG Post

Week Four:

8/6/2023	@bookish_aly_cat	IG Review
8/7/2023	@My.Bookish.Mind	Review/IG Post
8/8/2023	FUONLYKNEW	Review
8/9/2023	Jaime_of_gryffindor	IG Review
8/10/2023	@enthuse_reader	IG Review/TikTok Post
8/11/2023	Two Points of Interest	Review

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