Picturebook Review: Skippyjon Jones Cirque de Ole by Judy Schachner

Skippyjon Jones Cirque de Ole, written and illustrated by Judy Schachner is another book from a favorite picturebook author. I love to read about Skippyjon and his adventures. In the newest adventure, the siamese cat playing chihuahua swings out of his closet and into the Cirque de Ole. There the great Skippito and his friends, the Chimichango gang, perform fantastic feats of derring-do. There are several great acts to watch, but only Skippito the Strong can perform the trickiest stunt of all.

Skippyjon Jones Cirque de Ole is another great addition to Skippy's adventures. This daring pup and his chihuahua friends have defeated many a foe, explored space, faced school, and now they conquer the greatest show on Earth. Schachner's illustrations and text compliment each other perfectly to optimize the fun and fantastic adventures that all seem to take place in Skippy's closet.  While there is some fun had in blending Spanish and English, there is definitely some teaching of Spanish to be had as well.

If you happen to get your hands on the hardcover, which comes with a CD, or the audiobook, I highly urge you to take the time to listen. Schachner's reading of Skippyjon's stories are well worth the time and will make fans of all ages smile! I highly recommend this book, and the entire collection of Skippy's adventures for home reading, library collections, storytime, and even a classroom setting.

Other Things I Have Read, And Plan on Reading

I tend not to write reviews on the short stories or books that are deep into a series. But I thought a weekly wrap up post about other things I have read but not posted full reviews of might be a nice. Lets see if I can remember to do this weekly, or at least monthly.

This week I picked up the latest in meg Cabot's Heather Well's mystery series. Size 12 and Ready to Rock is the fourth book in the series, and I am glad to say that the fifth book is schedule to come out sometime this year (called Size 12 is the New Black). If you do not know the series (for shame) it starts with Size 12 is Not Fat, where we meet Heather Wells, former teen pop star. Now she is a little heavier that in her glory days, her mother has run off with her manager and Heather's money. She has also lost her boyfriend Jordon, a fellow pop star, to a newer model. Heather is now working in a residence hall at New York College, but her dorm seems to be curse. Each book in the series includes a death that takes place in the dorm, and Heather and new landlord Cooper, who just happens to be Jordon hunky brother, work the cases. Luckily Cooper is a private detective and cares more about Heather's safety than her dress size.

Yeah, so the series sounds like just another series catering to women that cannot wear a size two, but I am glad to say that although Heather does worry about her attractiveness from time to time, the stories are more about her dealing with the chaos that is her life, and the mysteries that she seems to stumble into. I love her personality, and that she always comes out on top, against all odds. There is a good amount of Heather dealing with the problems of the teens that live i the dorm, or residence hall, that she works in as well as office and academic politics. So the series is about much more than her size; it is about living life, following your own path, and standing up for what is right, and protecting those around you. If you have not read this series, I recommend it for teens and adults alike- most libraries will have it in the adult fiction section.

I also read The Vampire Hunter's Daughter (Part 1) by Jennifer Malone Wright, which is being release in serial format via Amazon for the Kindle.

The offical blurb is:
"Fourteen-year-old Chloe witnesses her mother’s murder at the hands of a vampire. Before the vampire can kidnap her, there is an unexpected rescue by a group of vampire hunters. Overwhelmed by the feeling of safety, Chloe passes out and they whisk her away to their small community. When Chloe wakes, she comes face to face with the only other living relative, besides her mother, whom she has ever met: her grandfather. Chloe’s mother kept her hidden from the family; now, Chloe tries to unveil the family secrets. Through her grandfather, she learns her mother was a vampire hunter. In fact, her entire family is descended from the powerful bloodlines of vampire hunters. Chloe agrees to join the family she has never known for one reason only: Chloe vows to kill the vampire responsible for her mother’s murder. With vengeance in her soul, Chloe is even more determined to follow through on her vow when she discovers the true identity of her enemy and how he is connected to her. The Vampire Hunter's Daughter is the first in a series of short stories by Jennifer Malone Wright."

I enjoyed the first part of the story, which was a free download. However, I have yet to download any of the following installments. I cam close, but with my backlog of reading, I could not get myself to pay for the next installments. If or when I do, I will download one of the groupings of several sections that I found to be available.

What is on my plate to read next??
In progress is Wild Children by Richard Roberts, which I am about of a third of the way through. So far I find it very interesting and will be a book I recommend for my library's collection unless the rest of the books suddenly changes in quality.

Waiting for my attention:
Physical Books:
Black Heart by Holly Black
Cold Days (the latest Dresden Files book) by Jim Butcher
The Space Between (the second book in a new Disney series) by Kiki Thorpe
Last Kiss Goodnight (first book in a new series) by Gena Showalter
Love Under Cover by Jessica Brody
Honeyed Words by J.A. Pitts

E-Books from Netgalley, Amazon, Etc
The Choosing by Jeremy Lallo
Lord of Lightning by Suzanne Foster
Sojourner by Maria Rachel Hooley
The Soul of Anime: Collaborative Creativity and Japan's Media Success Story by Ian Condry
The Book of Deacon (Volume 1) by Joseph Lallo and Nick Deligaris
Ex-Heroes (Ex-Heroes #1) by Peter Clines
Poison by Bridget Zinn
Coyote's Daughter by Corie Weaver
Daisy Madigan's Paradise (A Morgan Sisters Novella) by Suzy Turner
Cadaver by Jonah D. Ansell
Cow Boy by Chris Eliopoulos
Billy Frog by Guilllaume Bianco
ZED by Michel Gagne

I may well have left some out- in fact I know I did. I have not mentioned my cooking, gardening, and crafting books hidden about my house, never mind the books downloaded onto my netbook rather than my iPod. I am pretty sure there are more novels awaiting my attention on my desk, and countless books yet to download, but I digress.

Early Book Review: The Water Witch by Juliet Dark

The Water Witch by Juliet Dark, a pseudonym for Carol Goodman, is the second book in the Fairwick Chronicles series. It is scheduled for release on February 12, 2013. The Water Witch picks up shortly after the end of The Demon Lover, the first book in the series. While a reader new to the series would be able to enjoy the story without having read the first book, I highly recommend reading the series in order to fully understand the history of the characters and town and how it effects the larger story arch.

Callie McFay is a professor that also happens to be part faerie,  part witch, and the doorkeeper or guardian to the last known door between our world and the realm of faerie. Callie banished an incubus from her home in The Demon Lover, but she has not quite banished him from her mind. That complication combined with a house in need of serious care, an angry Undine, factions seeking to close the door, and her attempts to fully understand and control her powers keep the book moving quickly and set stage for further sequels.

The Water Witch, like The Demon Lover, his an urban fantasy with a slight gothic flavor. Callie is conflicted by her desire for her banished incubus and her roles in the paranormal world. Her powers seem to be bound and fluctuating wildly, and a magical tutor is found to help her with that, but he wants more than she ever suspects. The role as gatekeeper brings about more complications, as she tries to maintain the balance in the town, college, and her life which  are full of a variety of creatures others consider evil because of their heritage. The suspense and mystery involved, particularly in figuring out where everyone stands and their motivations, keep the story extremely interesting and kept me reading. Callie's personal growth, and her understanding of the world around her, is just as compelling as the rest of the story.

I recommend The Water Witch to readers that enjoyed The Demon Lover and to those that enjoy suspense, urban fantasy, and gothic fiction. Although, as I stating in the beginning, this is a series that I recommend reading in order to enjoy to its fullest.

Book Review: Tracking Justice by Shirlee McCoy

Tracking Justice by Shirlee McCoy is the first book in the contemporary romance Texas K-9 Unit series.  Eva Billows is a single mother who has learned over a hard life to rely on herself and not to trust others. Her son, Brady, is her life. Everything she does is to give him a loving and stable home, something she did not have as a child. Austin Black is a police detective dedicated to his job, and to helping others. When Eva's son is kidnapped in the night it is Austin and his K-9 partner, the bloodhound Justice, lead the charge to find him. But even when the Brady is found, the danger is only just beginning, both for their lives and their hearts.

Tracking Justice is a contemporary romance with a dash of faith based romance as well. Thankfully, the religious aspects flowed with the situations and characters, rather than jarring me out of the story. It was not expected, so it surprised me at first, but I do not think it would ruin the book for those of any beliefs. Eva's trouble laden path creates a wounded heroine, afraid to let others in because of her fear of being let down. Austin is a honorable man that does not want to miss out at a chance of real love, but does not want to disappoint a woman with his dedication to his job. Both face fears and struggles that readers can relate to on some level. The additions of a faithful dog, cute but frighten kid, and the suspense surrounding crime in an otherwise peaceful town make for an engaging and entertaining read.

I recommend Tracking Justice to readers that enjoy romance combined with action, danger, suspense, and family. Readers that enjoy a religious story with particularly enjoy the story, but readers that typically avoid such books will not be overwhelmed by that aspect of the story.

Book Review: Scent of Magic by Maria V. Snyder

Scent of Magic is the second book in the Healer Series by Maria V. Snyder. I recommend reading the first book, Touch of Power, before picking this one up because of the detailed character and world building involved in the series. However, I adore Snyder and highly recommend reading all of her books regardless. Scent of Magic picks up shortly after Touch of Magic ends. Avry is the last living healer in the Fifteen Realms. Although, the fact that she is alive is a secret to the world, except from Kerrick who is a forest mage and her partner. They need to do everything the can to stop the evil King Tohon and his dead army from taking over the world. But, at the same time Avry needs to reconcile with her sister and prepare rival armies for the fight to come. Meanwhile Kerrick is off to the north to fight his own battles with tribesmen with fantastic fighting skills and their own ways of doing things. Will either of their missions be successful, and will they survive long enough to be reunited. Danger, betrayal, and political maneuvering make everything more challenging for our favorite characters.

Scent of Magic holds with the quality that I expect for Snyder. I am not going to talk about the specific action, because I do not want to ruin the fun for returning readers to the series, and do not want to give anything at all away to those that have not read Touch of Power. The world and struggles for power are detailed and described in a way that leaves me fully invested in the outcome. Avry, Kerrick, and the eclectic crew of characters are as interesting and entertaining as always, although often leaving me wishing for another spin off series so that I can get more of a fix on the lives and thoughts of other characters. The motivations, fears, and relationships between characters are so well described that readers can find themselves holding their breath at key moments hoping for a good outcome. My only disappointment with the book was a cliff hanger ending. I am chopping at the bit for the next installment, with high hopes for a happier resolution than I expect.

I highly recommend Scent of Magic to those that have read Touch of Power. I high.y recommend both books, and any that follow, to readers that have enjoyed other books by Snyder, Tamora Pierce, and other fantasy novels high on character and story and low of sexual situations. The series is a great pick for adults, teens, and even some mature tweens. There is some significant fighting, and the dead army might be disturbing for some.

Book Review: Bah! Humbug? by Lorna and Lecia Balian

Bah! Humbug? is a holiday picturebook by written by Lorna Balian and illustrated by her daughter Lecia Balian. Margie is a young girl who writes to Santa in hopes of receiving a new teddy bear, as her much loved bear Herold is a little threadbare.  Her big brother Arthur thinks that Santa Claus is fake, and plots to prove it. Threats and teasing force Margie to go along with Arthur's plan. However, in the wee hours of Christmas morning Arthur just might be proven wrong, and Margie could receive a present better than anything she could have requested.

I know the Christmas season is over, but I just got to this book and had to share my thoughts. The illustrations are delightful and perfectly match the warm feelings of the tale. I found Bah! Humbug? to be endearing, and think it would play very well in families with children of many ages. This would be a great read in the weeks leading up to Christmas, and whenever sibling bullying might become an issue. During the holiday season, this book could keep believers and doubters from getting into battles, but Margie's gift could also serve as a wonderful lesson about what we really want versus what we request.

Early Book Review: Cowboy's Texas Rescue by Beth Cornelison

Cowboy's Texas Rescue by Beth Cornelison is the third contemporary romance in the Black Ops Rescues series. It is scheduled for release on February 19 2013. I did not read the two previous books, and did not feel like I lost anything from this book because of that lack. Jake Connelly lives to protect the innocent and take out the bad guys. He devotes his life to it. But, as he is hurrying home to visit with his critically ill father he is waylaid by a lady in distress and a murderous escaped convict. Chelsea Harris is recovering from her mother's serious health scare and a bad break up. As she hurries to get gas and to her parent's home before some nasty weather hits she is car jacked and put into serious danger. Can the two save each other in more ways than one?

I read Cowboy's Texas Rescue in one night. It was a quick read, but not due to any faults, rather because I just wanted to keep turning those pages to see how we might reach the end. Jake is a wounded alpha male, out to save the world because of a past tragedy. You know that hero, but he also has a quick wit and fun personality that makes him more than the stereotype. Chelsea is the self deprecating heroine, who has lost confidence in her appearance due to a crummy ex. Yup, again a character that should be boring, but her sardonic wit and ability to think beyond the moment of crisis to find logical solutions makes her more that expected. The danger they find themselves in, their skills, and their banter made this a fun read that made me hold my breath during a couple moments of serious danger for the pair, and those around them. There were only two things that bothered me with the book, both of which are extremely common in romance. One was Chelsea's thoughts about how great looking Jake was, and how he would have no interest in her because of her looks. The other issue was when the pair decided that it would be a good idea to get intimate when in serious danger. I know fear makes people do questionable things, but for two people that had been so practical and pragmatic it just did not work for me.

I recommend Cowboy's Texas Rescue to readers that have already read the two other books in the series, fans of Cornelison's writing, and those that like romance laced with danger and action. It was a read I did not want to put down, even with the couple things that bothered me. Not something I would add to my permanent collection, but a great weekend, vacation, or simply entertaining read.

Book Review: Secrets Clad in Light by Kyra Gregory

Secrets Clad in Light by Kyra Gregory is a novel that is hard to categorize for me. The initial blurb for the book says that it takes place in 1888 London, but as you read the story it could be happening in the future, and alternate world, or anyplace that can include poverty, abuse, and a sewer system. Henry is a man that risks everything to save the life of a younger man that seems to have attempted suicide by slitting his own throat. Henry is trouble by the choice, not knowing if he is condemning the other to a miserable existence, but does everything he can to save the life. Slowly, details about the pair, and the mysterious woman that helps them. The book offers emotional struggles, some mystery, and a slow reveal of information.

Secrets Clad in Light was a book that left me with mixed feelings. The reveal of information was slow, which was both good and bad. I liked the feel that while the book was written to have taken place in historic London, there was a feel that this could happen anywhere, anytime. Oppression and abuse can be present where ever people live. Henry is the main character, and the one we know most, and least, about. We know that he was some sort of employee or servant, that he loves Seth, and that he wants to help and protect others. The younger man he saved, Seth, suffered some abuse and has a long road of recovery ahead of him. There is a mysterious woman that aids them, and the majority of the story is about her effect on Henry and the discovery about her past. The emotional struggles Henry faces, worrying about everyone else's well being, and how they feel about him, is a common thread through the book.

Secrets Clad in Light is a unique book that could speak to many readers. I picked it up a few times before I read it through to the end. The story is vague enough in some details that I wondered a few times if I missed something in the world building, but it is also detailed enough on Henry's emotions and thought process that it could really capture some readers. Readers that like to be immersed in the setting might want to skip this book, but readers that are more interested in the moment rather that the setting would enjoy the book.

Early Book Review: The Odd Squad: Bully Bait by Michael Fry

The Odd Squad: Bully Bait by Michael Fry is a children's chapter book that is scheduled for publication on February 12 2013. Nick is short, he thinks he must be the shortest seventh grader in history. He does not really fit in with any of the groups at school, so spends most of his time bully dodging. An enthusiastic guidance counsel teams Nick up with two other outcasts, and the team is mentored by the eccentric janitor. The team of oddballs  come together to a common goal, fighting a bully, and learn about themselves and the nature of bullies.

The Odd Squad: Bully Bait was a great read, which I think is accessible to elementary and middle school students. It speaks to dealing with bullies, and how easy it can be to cross the line and act like a bully when feeling powerless. Some tough questions are dealt with, while still being funny. Nick is short but smart, stuck spending a good portion of his school day crammed in his locker. His family is a little different, and add to the quirkiness of the story. The other oddballs, Molly and Karl, have their own troubles and quirks. The bully, Roy, is as well developed as the three oddballs, as are the janitor and Nick's grandmother. rumors of a school ghost, and mentions of other interesting kids at the school, left me wanting to read more about what happens in those halls.

I highly recommend The Odd Squad: Bully Bait to middle grade readers, particularly those that have ever felt like an oddball or on the receiving end of the bully effect. There is some cute, awkward romance in the story, and a collection of unforgettable characters that will keep readers turning the pages. Fry includes some illustrations, which only further enhance the heart, humor, and truth of the story.

Early Book Review: X Marks the Scot by Victoria Roberts

X Marks the Scot by Victoria Roberts is a historical romance currently scheduled for release on February 5 2013. This highland romance is the follow up to Temptation in a Kilt, but is still a solid read to those that might not have read the prior book. In X Marks the Scot we met Declan MacGregor, a classic and not unexpected highland rouge. He has some serious skills with a bow and arrow, as well as with the ladies. Although, he seems to have trouble getting himself out of the connections he forges with the willing ladies. Lady Liadain Campbell is in Declan's care, an responsibility he takes seriously even though she is the sister to his greatest enemy, who just happens to be recently deceased. Liadain is nothing like the lasses Declan knows, she does not want his protection or his company, she just wants to be left alone and to return to her home. She is used to having freedom, and the English court is a place no one is fully free. Plots and whispered rumors arise, binding the pair together in a way neither anticipated. Now they need to either trust each other and become lost in the danger that surrounds them.

X Marks the Scot is a well researched and fun historical romance. There are recognizable names and moments in history tied to the deceptions and plotting that surround Declan and Liadain, which I appreciated. I really enjoyed the characters. While Declan was fairly predictable, a handsome lady's man bound by duty and honor for the most part, he also had a couple really cute moments when Liadain had to extract him from romantic difficulties of his own making. I absolutely loved Liadain, she was raised in a home with very little love, but plenty of time for her to understand herself and her skills. She is confident in her skills and intelligence and is never left doubting her own worth, I found that to be a nice change from the standard fair of women doubting their looks and own minds when facing obstacles on the romantic front.  I also like that the pair had a friendship of sorts, and did not fall into bed without having figured out some of their issues.

Readers that worry about this being the second book in the Bad Boys of the Highlands series will be relieved on several fronts. If you have not read Temptation in a Kilt, do not worry. The only thing you will be missing in this read is a feeling of dread when some secondary characters come into play, and the full story behind how Liadain's bother died and Declan gained a sister in law. Although, the short version is given in the context of X Marks the Scot, so you will understand the undercurrents those moments cause here. Readers that did pick up Temptation in a Kilt and felt it was a little lacking, have no fear! Roberts is growing as a writer, and I found myself caring about and liking the characters more in the second book than in the first. I look forward to seeing if the trend continues with her third book To Wed a Wicked Highlander. If the trend continues, she will soon be on my must read list for fans of heroes in kilts.

I recommend X Marks the Scot to readers that enjoyed Temptation in a Kilt, or liked it but thought it could have been more, because this second novel is even better. I look forward to Roberts' continued story and when this current group of characters will head next. I have high hopes for this author!