Book Review: Oddly Normal Book 2 by Otis Frampton

Oddly Normal Book 2 is the second trade paperback of the Oddly Normal graphic novel series by Otis Frampton. This includes issues 6-10 and picks up right after the first collection. I do not recommend jumping in here, start from the beginning!

In Volume 2, Oddly Normal's adventure in Fignation continues with new friends, new mysteries and new revelations about her missing parents. Meet Oddly Normal, a ten-year-old girl with pointed ears and green hair. She is a half-witch who will be the first to tell you that having a mother from a magical land called Fignation, also known as the Wicked Witch of the West and a father from Earth, does not make it easy to make friends at school! On her tenth birthday, she blew out the candles on her birthday cake and made a disastrous wish. Now, Oddly must travel to Fignation to uncover the mystery of her parents' disappearance. Join Oddly as she navigates a strange new school, teenage angst, monstrous bullies, and Evil itself on an unforgettable fantasy adventure through the vibrant world of Fignation in Oddly Normal. 

Oddly Normal Book 2 picks up right were volume one left off. She is in Fignation with her aunt, trying to discover where her parents went, find out about her family history, and survive school. Thankfully she has some great new friends, who make things a little easier for her. Of course, in a place like Fignation everyone is a little different. Her friends and the not so friendly teachers and other students are all right out of dreams, nightmares, and stories. I think the best parts of this collection are when Oddly gets a peak at memories, and when her friends insist on giving her a birthday gift. However, as a whole the graphic novel felt a little disjointed. I think I might wait and read the full collection (when all the volumes are released, in a row. That might make it feel more like a story to me rather than vignettes that have little connecting them.

Oddly Normal Book 2 is  a good collection, but not fantastic. The art is wonderful and there are some great storylines here, and lots to work with. However I felt like there is little pulling everything together at this point. 

Book Review: Alistair Grim's Odd Aquaticum by Gregory Funaro

Alistair Grim's Odd Aquaticum by Gregory Funari is the second book in the Odditorium series. The first book was Alistair Grim’s Odditorium. I highly recommend reading these books in order. While they each are complete stories in themselves, knowing the relationships and background is very important to fully enjoying the story.

When Grubb, an orphan and runaway chimney sweep, entered the wondrous world of the Odditorium, his life changed forever. Apprenticed to the mechanical marvel's strange proprietor, Alistair Grim, Grubb unfortunately must settle into his new position on the lam, as the whole of London is convinced that Alistair Grim is a villain bent on mass destruction. Grim, however, has come up with a plan to expose the real villain: Prince Nightshade, a wicked necromancer who wants the Odditorium's power source for himself. With the evil prince hot in their trail, Grim, Grubb and the rest of the Odditorium's crew embark on a perilous adventure to find the legendary sword Excalibur: the only weapon capable of penetrating Nightshade's magical suit of armor. As expected, their quest turns out to be anything but ordinary. Not only can the Odditorium fly, but it can also swim! And so the crew battens down the hatches and sets off on an underwater voyage to the otherworldly realm of Avalon, home to Excalibur. Along the way, they must battle a banshee assassin, sea monsters, and a witch who seeks revenge on Alistair Grim for stealing her magical objects.

Alistair Grim's Odd Aquaticum is a satisfying sequel. I did not find it quite as enthralling as the first book, but there is plenty of character development and action once the book gets going. I liked that there were new characters added to the fray, as well as our favorites from the first installment. There are some unexpected twists and turns, I was actually surprised with one of the major twists and thought the additional characters really added to the depth of the mysteries in the book, as well as the characters. To make the book even more interesting to me there is a trip to Avalon and some significant play with Arthurian legends, which are my favorite. I liked the fresh look at some of my favorite legends, and how much Grubb, Alistair, and the rest all grow as individuals and how the group changes and becomes strong through the challenges they face. I look forward to seeing where the Odditorium takes us all next!

Alistair Grim's Odd Aquaticum is a little bit slower than the first book to get the the action, but if poured and enjoyed the first book I recommend following it up with this book. However, keep in mind that there are more to come! Sop while this book does have a satisfying conclusion, like the first book did, there are still many questions and problems left to be solved in future books.

Book Review: To the Stars! The First American Woman to Walk in Space by Carmella Van Vleet, Dr. Kathy Sullivan, Nicole Wong

To the Stars! The First American Woman to Walk in Space is a children's nonfiction picture book written by Carmella Van Vleet and Dr. Kathy Sullivan. It was illustrated by Nicole Wong. Kathy Sullivan wanted to go everywhere. She loved blueprints and maps. She loved languages and the ocean. Kathy liked fishing and swimming; flying planes and studying science. That’s what she liked and that’s what she decided to do with her life. She didn’t like the question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” She wanted to explore and do exciting things that girls weren’t supposed to be able to do. Only men had the exciting jobs. She followed her heart and eventually became a NASA astronaut and the first woman to walk in space. Kathy wanted to see the whole world and so she did; from space!

 

 To the Stars! The First American Woman to Walk in Space is a simple look at some of the struggles Kathy Sullivan faced as a child, living the things that were not acceptable for girls to like. Thankfully she followed her heart and studied and researched all of the things she was interested in despite those that tried to change her focus. The illustrations are subtle and sweet, background watercolor-like images that show the activities and dreams of Sullivan, and chronicle some of her successes. I liked the additional information at the end about Kathy and other women that made history in the field. However, I thought the body of the book was a little too vague on what Kathy did to follow her dreams. We learned about her being told her interests and job prospects were intended for men, and about her cool flying experience, and a few other tidbits. However I felt like there was not much for young girls to learn about how Kathy went from dreamer to astronaut until the biographical page at the end of the book.

To the Stars! The First American Woman to Walk in Space is a nice book for young readers to show how important it is to follow your dreams, regardless of what others might saw. The information in the backwater was the most informative and interesting part as far as I was concerned, but found the idea behind the book and story to be reasonably well done. 

Book Review: The Queen's Shadow: A Story about How Animals See by Cybèle Young

The Queen's Shadow: A Story about How Animals See by Cybèle Young is an informational picture book which combines the science of animal eyesight into a clever whodunit involving a proud queen. It is during the Queen's Ball, at which “society's most important nobility” are in attendance (all of whom are animals), that a “major crime has been committed”: the queen's shadow has been stolen! Mantis Shrimp, the Royal Detective, takes the lead in the investigation to find the perpetrator, and one by one the animal suspects defend their innocence. From a shark and a snake to a dragonfly and a goat, each creature's testimony explains their version of the scene of the crime based on their own unique eyesight, while the finely textured and detailed artwork illustrates the ballroom as viewed by that animal. In sidebars to the story, the author provides factual information about how the eyesight of each animal works, and why. As each animal's perspective sheds new light on the mystery, it becomes clear to children that there are many different ways to see what goes on in the world.

The Queen’s Shadow is a visually enthralling book. The illustrations are frankly fantastic, and while the set up and concussion of the mystery that sets the stage for the informational portion of the book is a little flimsy, I for the book itself to be interesting. I liked the tidbits of facts, and then the more in depth explanations, of how different animals see the world. There is an explanation of how our eyes work, as well as background information on each animal described in the story. I appreciated the more in depth glossary at the end of the book. There is some humor, and wonderful illustrations, to keep the reader engage with the fairly sophisticated book. I am not sure of the niche audience that would simply adore the book, but I do think that the combination of aspects in the book will appeal in different ways to many different people. 

The Queen’s Shadow is an interesting blend of animal information, mystery, and humor all bundled up with eye catching art work. This might be the book to engage more reluctant readers in an animal science class, or to encourage an animal enthusiast to step up and stretch their reading skills. This is a unique book, one I have no real comparison for, with is special in and of itself. 

Book Review: Nightbird by Alice Hoffman

Nightbird by Alice Hoffman is a middle grade novel. Twelve-year-old Twig's town in the Berkshires is said to hide a winged beast, the Monster of Sidwell, and the rumors draw as many tourists as the town's famed pink apple orchards. Twig lives in the orchard with her mysterious brother James and her reclusive mother, a baker of irresistible apple pies. Because of a family secret, an ancient curse,Twig has had to isolate herself from other kids. Then a family with two girls, Julia and Agate, moves into the cottage next door. They are descendants of the witch who put the spell on Twig's family. But Julia turns out to be Twig's first true friend, and her ally in trying to undo the curse and smooth the path to true love for Agate and James.

Nightbird is a complex and enchanting book about friendship, family, and secrets. The mysteries surrounding Twig’s family are slowly revealed in the beginning of the book, and the oddities of the town and the important players of the story creep out of the story subtly and sometimes in unexpected ways. I liked that Twig was a multi dimensional character. While she is a typical tween in some ways, struggling with finding her place, friendship, and family, she has additional struggles that I think she handles quite well under the circumstances. Her mother and brother get less time in the book to be fully explored, but do not come across as flat. I really enjoyed the development of friendship and the slow reveals about the family and various relationships that come through out the story. The fear and mob mentality that can rise in a town of scared individuals, as well as the calmer heads that are always trying to do the best they can under the circumstances are timeless. The events of the story, for the most part, are timeless and more about the state of humanity rather than the times we live in. I could easily see these emotions and conflicts arising now, a hundred years ago, or a hundred years from now. I liked that love, friendship, and being honest with yourself and those you care about are the keys to solving the problems and mysteries throughout the book.

Nightbird is a wonderful combination of mystery, magic, and coming into ones own. I think readers from middle grade through adults can all find themselves enthralled with the story, and perhaps a little changed by it. This is magical realism done right.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alice Hoffman is the author of more than thirty bestselling works of fiction, including Practical Magic, which was made into a major motion picture starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman; Here on Earth, an Oprah Book club selection; the highly praised historical novel The Dovekeepers; and, most recently, The Museum of Extraordinary Things. Her books for teens include Green Angel, Green Witch, Incantation, The Foretelling, and Aquamarine, also a major motion picture starring Emma Roberts. 

Early Book Review: Highland Spitfire by Mary Wine

Highland Spitfire by Mary Wine is a historical romance that is currently scheduled for release on February 1 2016. In the throes of fierce clan wars, the Queen's Regent tricks the children of two feuding lairds into a desperate choice; marry or die. The union—however reluctant—of a MacPherson and a Robertson could end three generations of hostilities between the two families. Ailis Robertson wanted a husband, not a savage. But she is rocked by the intense passion she feels for Bhaic, who is likewise taken aback by the fierce jealousy he experiences when he sees Ailis speaking with other men. Is it possible for fierce enemies to become a happy husband and wife?

Highland Spitfire is a historical romance that features a couple forced to marry, and finds passion and a meeting of the minds in the process. I like that both Ailis and Bhaic use reason and compassion, not just their physical attraction, to make things work. There are compromises to be made, and tensions to be understood and overcome. Ails is smart, capable, and more than willing to get her hands dirty. She wants to do her part, and fight her own battles. I share her annoyance with those that want to make divisions or actions in our staid to ‘protect’ us. Bhaic is strong and honorable, and more than a little stubborn. I think he gives his brother a little too much power over what goes on, but then it is also part of the family structure. Overall I was happy with the story, and am interested to see just what might happen in the book that follows.

Highland Spitfire is an entertaining and engaging read. Those that love a solid historical romance with some adventure and plaids will enjoy the read. 

Book Review: Karmas a Killer by Tracy Webber

Karmas a Killer by Tracy Webber is the third book in the Downward Dog Mystery series. I have not read the previous two books in this fun cozy mystery series, but I feel like I caught up quickly. I think having read the previous books would have given me a head start in getting to know the main players, I did not feel like there were major puzzle pieces missing because of that lack.

When Seattle yoga teacher Kate Davidson agrees to teach doga (yoga for dogs) at a fundraiser for a local animal rescue, she believes the only damage will be to her reputation. But a few downward-facing dogs are the least of Kate’s problems when an animal rights protest at the event leads to a suspicious fire and a drowning. The police arrest a woman claiming to be Kate’s estranged mother and charge her with murder. To prove her innocence, Kate, boyfriend Michael, and German shepherd sidekick Bella dive deeply into the worlds of animal activism, organizational politics, and the dangerous obsessions that drive them.

Karmas a Killer is a fun but still emotionally deep mystery. Family drama, dealing with trauma and trust issues, helping animals, and so much more all play significant roles in what I was fully prepared to be light and fluffy. That is not to say that there is not plenty of fun and humor, there certainly is. However, there is also much more to it for those that like to sink in to the characters. Kate is a flawed hero, well aware of her quirks and owning her issues while still trying to face down her demons. Michael has his own issues, as do most of the people (and animals) in Kate's circle of close friends. I liked the contrast of characters, and the depth that some of the more secondary characters received in such a relatively short book. The mystery was well laid out and there was a good combination of red herrings and foreshadowing that had the characters, and myself, thinking just about anyone could have committed the crime. I was impressed in the the amount of twists and turns the story had, and where some of them tool me.

Karmas a Killer was a satisfying read, even though I had not read the previous books, I will be adding the first books to my ever expanding to be read pile. I think readers that like characters that have suffered trauma and are out there taking chances, surviving, and moving on while still being entertaining and witty will enjoy the series. 

Book Review: K-9 by Rohan Gavin

K-9 by Rohan Gavin is the second book in the Knightley and Son series. This is a series that is important to read in order. There are major plot points and character traits that are explained by the first book, and only glossed over briefly in this installment to remind readers. I really enjoyed the first book, so if this one sounds interesting I would recommend starting at the beginning with Knightly and Son.

Darkus Knightley, the thoroughly logical 13-year-old investigator of the weird, was just getting used to having his dad back in his life. Then Alan Knightley went off-radar, again, leaving Darkus with a traumatized ex-bomb-disposal dog as his only partner in crime-solving. Now things are getting even stranger. Family pets are being savaged by a beast at a top London beauty spot. Policemen have been tracked and attacked by a particularly aggressive canine. And two curiously alert hounds seem to be watching Darkus's house. As the full moon approaches, it doesn't take Sherlock Holmes to work out that someone or something sinister is messing with the minds of London's dog population. A mysterious canine conspiracy is howling for the attention of Knightley & Son.

K-9 is a fast paced mystery with a nice level of character growth and development. Darius is only 13, and has a mind better suited to solving mysteries and puzzles than understanding other people. His small group off confidants is not even that, as he keeps small details and theories to himself. However, he is not the only one keeping secrets in order to solve the mystery or protect others. The chase was complicated and fairly involved, leaving some pieces of it never really explained as far as I was concerned. but the big mystery was solved with a great climax and good humor tossed in along the way. If you enjoyed the first book, you will enjoy this one. I do not think it was as good as the first, but it was still an entertaining and enjoyable read.

K-9 is a wonderful book for mystery fans. Those that enjoyed the first book and books with a highly intelligent and analytic lead that is a little behind on social skills and cues will enjoy this series. Sherlock for the middle grade set. 

Early Book Review: Pure Soapmaking: How to Create Nourishing Natural Skin-Care Soaps by Anne-Marie Faiola

Pure Soapmaking: How to Create Nourishing Natural Skin-Care Soaps by Anne-Marie Faiola is a currently scheduled for release on February 9 2016. This is a great starter and instruction guide that explains the benefits and details of making your own cold process soaps. The book offers complete instructions, including the science and safety precautions needed. There are 32 recipes that range from simple castile bars to intricate swirls, embeds, and marbled and layered looks. There are photographs that guide you through the step-by-step instructions of cold-process soapmaking.

Pure Soapmaking is a well written and thoughtful instructional guide to the craft of making soaps. I find the idea of making cold-process soaps more than a little intimidating. However, I very much like knowing exactly what is in my skin care products- and those my children use. In this, the idea of crafting my own custom soaps is intriguing and desirable. I found the photography and text came together in a way that makes the process much less intimidating and much better understood. I think this is a much read for those just starting out in cold-process soap making and a handy resource to keep around and use for recipes and information even after feeling like you have mastered the basics. 

Pure Soapmaking is a wonderful and detailed guide to making your own soaps.  I have made my own soaps in the past, but never tried cold process soaps, since I find the use of lye more than a little intimidating. However, this book with its instructions and encouragement might help me make the leap. 

Early Book Review: Never Insult a Killer Zucchini by Elana Azose, Brandon Amancio, David Clark

Never Insult a Killer Zucchini is a new ABC picturebook written by Elana Azose and Brandon Amancio. It was illustrated by David Clark (and is currently scheduled for release on February 9 2016.  When Mr. Farnsworth, the science-fair judge, declares that he loves zucchinis, the Killer Zucchini is smitten. As the judge makes his way through the exhibits alphabetically; A (antimatter), B (bionic limb), C (cloning), and so on the Killer Zucchini tries to show his affection. But when Mr. F gets to K and admits he likes to eat zucchini with ranch dressing, the Killer Zucchini gets steamed and attempts to exact his revenge on the snack-loving judge using the other science-fair projects as his means to an end.  Hilarious havoc ensues as the entire science fair is destroyed by his wrath.

Never Insult a Killer Zucchini is a fun and unique alphabet book. i love books that take fresh approaches to concepts that have been heavily covered. In this ABC book we get the alphabet through the lens of a science fair. Some of the projects seem really out there, and the illustrations are fun and highly entertaining. I think science and silly joke lovers will get a kick out of this book. To ramp things up, and make the book even better, there is information on the real science behind the projects in the fair to interest the more fact minded readers and their caretakers. I think both my kids, even though well past the typical ABC book audience, would get a kick out of the book and included information.

Never Insult a Killer Zucchini is a great new look at the alphabet. The silliness and real science information make this a great addition to library, personal, and school collections.