Book Review: Greta and the Giants (Inspired by Greta Thunberg's stand to save the world) by Zoë Tucker, Zoe Persico

Greta and the Giants (Inspired by Greta Thunberg's stand to save the world) was written by Zoë Tucker and illustrated by Zoe Persico. Greta is a little girl who lives in a beautiful forest threatened by Giants. When the Giants first came to the forest, they chopped down trees to make houses. Then they chopped down more trees and made even bigger homes. The houses grew into towns and the towns grew into cities, until now there is hardly any forest left. Greta knows she has to help the animals who live in the forest, but how? Luckily, Greta has an idea. A section at the back explains that, in reality, the fight against the “giants” isn’t over and explains how you can help Greta in her fight.

Greta and the Giants is a lovely book. I have to admit that the first thing that drew me to the book were the colors and art style. I absolutely love the illustrations and bold colors that are used. I found myself paying more attention to the artwork and the details in it that the story during my first read through. In the first part of the book the text is almost lost in the corners, and easy to overlook. Once I slowed down and read the text I enjoyed the story, I only wish the giants in the real world were that easy to reach. The story is reminiscent of The Lorax for me, and I do not mean that in a bad way. My daughter loved The Lorax, and I could recite it for years after she stopped asking for it. The message that protecting nature is good, and that even if we are small and often overlooked we can effect change is something I have not problem telling and retelling. I liked that the story showed that we often have to come together just to get the attention necessary to be heard, but that it can be done. I love that the book included information in accessible terms about what is happening, and how anyone and everyone can do something to help not matter how small. I really enjoy the book as a whole and hope that it will reach the children (and adults) that need to hear the message. 

Greta and the Giants is a delightful story, and one that just might help continue the efforts towards protecting the environment. What makes this book even better is that it has been printed sustainably in the US on 100% recycled paper. By buying a copy of this book, you are making a donation of 3% of the cover price to 350.org. 

Book Review: After the Final Curtain: America’s Abandoned Theaters by Matt Lambros

After the Final Curtain: America’s Abandoned Theaters by Matt Lambros documents the current state of the once opulent movie theaters that were designed to make their patrons feel like royalty.  People would dress up to visit. But as time went on it became harder and harder to fill the 2,000+ seat theaters and many were forced to close. Today, these palaces are illuminated only by the flicker of dying lights. The sound of water dripping from holes in the ceiling echoes through the auditoriums. From the supposedly haunted Pacific Warner Theatre in Los Angeles to the Orpheum Theatre in New Bedford, MA ― which opened the same day the Titanic sank ― Lambros pulls back the curtain to reveal what is left, giving these palaces a chance to shine again.

After the Final Curtain: America’s Abandoned Theaters offers readers a look at the once beautiful movie theaters in their current states, along with information on the location. I found a sad beauty in most of the pictures, a faded grandeur and a look at what was glorious inthe past. I have always loved theaters- the magic and wonder in getting lost in a story and someone's acting or musical talent  isa wonderful thing. The faded glory of these theaters hold on to some of this wonder, as sad as the state of some of these buildings are in. I think that Lambros did a wonderful job of documenting these locations, and the changes in the world that triggered some of this decay. I really enjoyed learning about some of the projects that have happened, and are still happening, to preserve, restore, or repurpose some of these buildings. While we cannot go back, providing space for history and the arts to live on is a wonderful thing. I only wish more of these buildings had futures as bright as their pasts.

Book Review: At Death's Door (Deadman's Cross) by Sherrilyn Kenyon

At Death's Door is the third book in the Deadman's Cross series by Sherrilyn Kenyon. I highly recommend reading Kenyon's series in order- and if you have read her Dark Hunter and other series it will be an even more meaningful read for you because they do all tie in together nicely. 

Valynda Moore was born cursed. So when she dies as the result of a spell gone wrong and is trapped in the body of a voodoo doll, she expects nothing else from her messed up life. Until Thorn, leader of the Hellchasers, offers her a chance at redemption and a new life. But nothing has ever gone her way, for the Malachai, the very beast she and her crew of Deadmen have sworn to keep locked away, has risen. And this time he’s taken prisoners. Valynda must keep her wits about her or be denied her salvation and forced to watch as the entire world falls into the hands of absolute evil. It’s a demon-eat-demon world where the stakes have never been higher and either redemption or the ultimate betrayal waits for her at Death’s Door.

At Death's Door is a culmination of the Deadman's story. We get to see Valynda resolve her feelings of betrayal and find love again. We get to see the Malachai and forces of evil at work and fought against. We get to see some of the backstories we wanted, and some of the family dramas that shaped characters and the way the see the world. It is a dark story, with a great deal of dwelling on betrayal and how horrible people can be to each other- even the ones they are supposed to protect. I find that very understandable since I have been following the author's current struggles in real life. However, there is also love, redemption, friendship, and all the things that make humanity wonderful in the story as well. There is a lot going on in this story, andI loved the references to characters and plot points from other books and series. The way this connected characters I never really connected in my head before made me happy. The more negative parts, the dwelling on betrayal and horrible things that happened to some characters, rather brought me down and I kept expecting more trauma even after things were wrapped up- but I think think that goes to show how invested I have become in the world.   

At Death's Door is a solid conclusion to the Deadman's trilogy. I really enjoyed how it pulled together so many of the worlds created by this author. It is a must read for fans. Even though it was not my favorite from this author, I am as always impressed with the world and character building. As an aside for audiobook lovers, the reader is fantastic as always. 

Book Review: Sorry I Barfed on Your Bed Again (and More Heartwarming Letters from Kitty) by Jeremy Greenberg

Sorry I Barfed on Your Bed Again (and More Heartwarming Letters from Kitty) by Jeremy Greenberg is a collection of funny letters and heartwarming photos from cats to their person. Tess wants you to know that she intends to continue throwing up freely as long as the new baby gets to—fair is fair. Ovid would like to inform you that he’s giving up one of his nine lives in order to avoid a visit to the vet—he’ll miss you and knows you understand. And Quinn assures you that she’ll protect you from whatever it is that’s rolled under the table with all the righteous fury in her little body—even if only turns out to be a dropped olive.

Sorry I Barfed on Your Bed Again is an amusing book with short letters from felines to their humans. Cat lovers will relate to the letters, and find some humor there. Every cat owner has had at least one of these situations, if not more, in their homes. The letters are clever, with different tones depending on the cat it was attributed to. The pictures of the cats were enjoyable to look at, with some that were fairly standard pictures and others that had goofy or interesting expressions. As a whole the book was a fun diversion for a few minutes. It is not a book that I would add to my collection, but it might be a good gift for very devoted cat lovers. 

Early Book Review: Weekend Fling (Crazy Love) by Stacey Lynn

Weekend Fling is the fourth book in the Crazy Love series by Stacey Lynn. Each book can be enjoyed on its own, but characters from the previous books do make appearances and are secondary characters. It is currently scheduled for release on November 26 2019. 

Fresh out of a long-term relationship, Willow Parks is working two jobs and caring for her mother, whose husband left her with nothing but a pile of bills. That’s why Willow made a vow: no men until she figures out her own life. But while she may not need a man, she could use a break. And a weekend away at a California beach to clear her head? That’s appealing. Even if the offer comes from Trey Collins, the irresistible tech-mogul millionaire who visits her coffee shop every morning like clockwork—and needs a date for his best friend’s wedding. With an adorable, occasional stutter, he refuses to take no for an answer. Once the weekend begins, Trey is intent on proving how good they can be together. Willow’s even feeling tempted to break her vow—until reality rudely interrupts her well-deserved getaway. There’s no way she and Trey have a future, not with the colossal amount of baggage Willow has to offer. But Trey is used to getting what he wants. He just has his work cut out for him convincing her that they want the same thing.

Weekend Fling is a story that offers heart, heat, and laughs. Willow is going through some major life changes. She is more than a little overwhelmed- and a weekend of fun with an attractive guy by the beach seems like the perfect weekend vacation, at least until one more crisis comes her way. While I have never been in Willow's position- I could completely understand her reluctance and desire to maintain emotional distance. She was well written, and was a relatable and sympathetic character that was willing to own up to her own mistakes. Trey is almost too perfect for me- he is rich, attractive, a hard worker, and honestly a good guy with a great circle of friends. He gives Willow the space she asks for, and stays a friend while not lying about wanting more. I even loved his wacky parents, who offered up some of the best laughs in the book.  Even with all that fun stuff, I like that the mental health aspects of the story are well done, not overwhelming but offering an honest look at how one family can be affected by it and see it all so differently. While this was not my favorite book in this series, it was still a great read with solid characters.

Weekend Fling is another fun romance that has some depth to it. I cannot wait to see what the author writes next.

Book Review: Strange but True: 10 of the World's Greatest Mysteries Explained by Kathryn Hulick, Gordy Wright

Strange but True: 10 of the World's Greatest Mysteries Explained, written by Kathryn Hulick and illustrated by Gordy Wright, explores ten of the world's greatest unsolved mysteries. Readers can witness a UFO encounter, search for the lost city of Atlantis, tour a haunted house, and discover the kraken's true form. The book utilizes the scientific method and sharp thinking to separate fact from fiction and explain the unexplainable.

Strange but True: 10 of the World's Greatest Mysteries Explained takes the stories of the unexplained and offers readers as much of the story as they can. I like that the book offers the legends, witness statements, and scientific information to give readers of all ages the tools and information necessary to make up their own minds. I love the documentaries and television show that do this, so not much of this book was new to me. However, I think it was a well organized and structured book that can help interested readers take the time to look at mysteries and experiences like those discussed from multiple angles. I thought the illustrations were well done and broke up the text nicely to keep the pages and blocks of text from becoming overwhelming. I did think that some of the font choices, particularly the chapter headings  and sidebar commentary was hard to read- however that could have been partially because I was reading a digital copy. I did like that in the end notes the author included information on his sources, so that if readers are interested in a particular story they can do further research. 

Strange but True: 10 of the World's Greatest Mysteries Explained is a well organized and interesting read. I think many middle grade readers will enjoy it.

Book Review: Dark 'N' Deadly (Federal K-9) by Tee O'Fallon

Dark 'N' Deadly is the third book in the Federal K-9 series by Tee O'Fallon. I have not read the previous books, and while some of the characters and situations from previous books do carry over I was able to enjoy this story on its own. However, I think that those that have read the previous books will get more from this read than newcomers like myself. 

ATF Special Agent Eric Miller and his explosives detecting K-9, Tiger, pull over a truck, the contents of which are explosive. Literally. More shocking, the driver is the kid brother of a woman he left behind. One who still haunts his days and his nights. They’d never so much as kissed, but Tess McTavish never forgot the handsome, dangerous agent who vanished in a shroud of mystery. Now the last thing she needs is an ATF agent with his own agenda. Doesn’t matter that Tess and her brother are innocent. If Eric learns the truth of their past, they’ll never be free. Eric’s drive for revenge against the man who targeted him and his colleagues in a deadly explosion still burns hot inside him. Another bomb is about to be detonated and he’s sure there’s a connection between that man…and Tess’s family. But Eric and Tiger will do everything they can to protect the woman he’s falling for from what’s coming.

Dark 'N' Deadly is a strong contemporary romance that had a nice slow burn element, and some serious tension. There were a few times that I delayed getting back to the book because of that tension. I liked the character building. I thought that Eric and Tess were well crafted characters- with complicated and painful pasts. They each dealt with their trauma in consistent and reasonable ways, even when it made the situation harder on themselves later. I liked that the secondary characters, like Jesse and Dayne were well fleshed out, and just as realistic and consistent as the main players. I did have a couple moments when I groaned about the lack of following law enforcement procedure- because those are the kind of things that get the bad guys acquitted in the long run- and I was left think about how much evidence would actually be submittable in court. But, this is fiction and while I think I know some of this stuff, I have not done all the research so I could be wrong. In general, I enjoyed the read and thought the characters were well written. However, I did not fall in love with the series.   So much of this book worked really well- and the danger and tension were high and carried throughout the story, but it somehow missed the sweet spot for me and I could not even point out the moment or aspect of the story that I just did not connect with.

Dark 'N' Deadly is a must read for fans of the series, since you have met these characters in the previous books. It was a solid read, but somehow ran hot and cold for me. 

Book Review: Cookies for Everyone: 99 Deliciously Customizable Bakeshop Recipes by Mimi Council

Cookies for Everyone: 99 Deliciously Customizable Bakeshop Recipes by Mimi Council offers readers the recipes and detailed instructions for baking a variety of cookies. From soft and chewy basics to sandwich cookies, biscotti, macarons, and Florentines, easy recipes to help home bakers master the art of cookies, including tips for gluten-free, vegan, and high-altitude baking. Mimi's Tips and Tricks walk readers through key steps and techniques, demystifying baking; her clear instructions cover everything from basic cookies to sandwich cookies and biscotti. And for anyone who thinks more sophisticated cookies (such as macarons and Florentines) are impossible to make at home, let alone for "special diets," think again -- Mimi's excellent counsel will have you baking up a storm in no time.

Cookies for Everyone is a well organized cookbook for cookie lovers. I love giving cookies for gifts around the holidays- so this book was perfectly timed for me. I like that the book offers the basic how to's, equipment advice, and ingredient information before even touching on the recipes, so that those that have never been bakers can catch up to the more experienced readers right away. I also liked that there are specific instructions at the beginning of each chapter- because making some styles of cookies require some different techniques even if the basic ingredients are the same. I also like the there are instructions for changing up recipes to be gluten free or at high altitudes included for recipes. No one needs to miss out on their favorite cookie or guess at how to make changes to a recipe. I enjoyed the selection of cookies in the book, and how well organized it was. I do have a collection of cookie cookbooks, and am someone that spends much time researching for the perfect set of recipes for my holiday baking. I have to admit that I am not likely to buy any more cookbooks, but if I were this might just make it in my collection. I do highly recommend it for library collections, and would certainly borrow it from my local library to revisit some of the recipes.

Cookies for Everyone is a solid cookbook with some great cookie recipes. It is well structured and written- making it accessible to new and experienced bakers alike. 

Book Review: Pawsitively Cursed (Witch of Edgehill Mystery) by Melissa Erin Jackson

Pawsitively Cursed is the second Witch of Edgehill Mystery by Melissa Erin Jackson. While this mystery is unrelated to the first and can stand up well on its ow, from a character and world building standpoint I recommend reading this series in order for the fullest enjoyment. 

For the past fourteen years Amber Blackwood, has been haunted by her parents’ deaths. The whole town knows about the tragedy, but the details remain a mystery even to Amber. From her tiny studio apartment above her shop, The Quirky Whisker, Amber can see her partially rebuilt old house out on the edge of town. Although she now has a good life—delighting children with her magically infused toys, concocting healing tinctures for Edgehill’s residents, doting on her cats, Tom and Alley, and sitting on the committee for the town’s annual Here and Meow Festival—she feels stuck in the past. Amber suspects the fire that killed her parents was set deliberately by a witch from the cursed Penhallow clan, from whom no one has heard even a whisper since the night her parents died. The clan’s sudden disappearance is no coincidence to Amber, but her aunt Gretchen refuses to believe there’s a connection and urges Amber to stop looking for someone to blame. So Amber is shocked when Aunt Gretchen shows up unexpectedly, claiming the Penhallows have resurfaced and that one of them is heading for Edgehill with Amber in his sights. Aunt Gretchen knows more about the fabled clan than she’s letting on. Amber is determined to find out what her aunt is hiding, and what the Penhallow seeks, before the same treacherous force that took Amber’s parents’ lives claims her own.

Pawsitively Cursed is a wonderful continuation of Amber's story. This book is just as much about Amber's growth and fears as it is the actual mystery. She has insecurities, worries, and doubts that everyone can relate to on some level- and then there is the added worry about magic secrets that just might be the death of her and others. The unveiling of the mystery and the way her double life impacts her social life and the safety of the town was well paced and compelling. Getting to know more about Amber's past, and her remaining family was nice, and I think added a greater depth to her character. I like that wile Amber was putting herself out there and trying to date- and I enjoyed the honesty in the awkward moments- I was relieved that that part of the story never overwhelmed the mystery and magic that kept he story line moving forward. The mystery and danger aspects of the story were also well done. I was almost constantly on edge waiting for one character or another not to be who they appeared.  The tension was very well maintained. I really did expect an extra twist at the end, and was fairly pleased that the epilogue went in a completely (though not unexpected) way to tease for the next book.  I am very eager for that book, and will definitely be following this series onward. 

Pawsitively Cursed is even better than the first book in the series, and I am eager to see where the story, and its characters, go from here. 

Book Review: Shattered Bonds (Jane Yellowrock) by Faith Hunter

Shattered Bonds is the thirteenth book in the Jane Yellowrock series by Faith Hunter. I strongly recommend reading this series in order. Newcomers to the series will not have a good frame of reference for what is happening. Even as a fan of the series, I have missed some of the novella between the novels and either missed or did not remember some of the events referred to in the story. Someone without the backstory is likely to be lost. 

Jane Yellowrock is vampire-killer-for-hire, but her last battle with an ancient arcane enemy has brought her low. She seeks retreat in the Appalachian Mountains to grieve the loss of her friends, and to heal—or to die—from the disease brought on by her magic. But malevolent elements in the paranormal community still seek to destroy Jane, and a terrifying foe stalks her, even into the safety of the hills. With nowhere to run and her body failing, the rogue-vampire hunter and her inner Beast must discover a way to defeat this new threat, and find a form that gives her a chance to fight another day.

Shattered Bonds is a challenging read. Everything is on the line- again- and a happy ever after seems near impossible to find. Jane, Eli, Alex, and George are all still growing and changing as characters in ways consistent with what readers know about them and their pasts. Her friends and not so friendly allies make their appearances and make their own growth and changes. I loved seeing Jane's continued growth and her devotion to those she considers hers, as well as the innocent. There is a great deal going on in this story, and many references to past struggles and relationships. I honestly did not get all of the references, but I know I have not read all of the short stories and in between novellas in the series- and it has been a few years since I read some of the books so I am not shocked that I missed some. As I got close to the end I admit to taking my time with the story- stalling before picking it back up. THis was not because it was bad, but because there was so much to unpack, and so many possibilities, that I was almost afraid to find out which way each fight, discovery, or realization would go. I really enjoyed seeing this many characters return or at least have a voice- and the introduction of a few more. I am terrified, hopeful, and way to eager to see where this series goes next.

Shattered Bonds is a solid addition to Jane's story. I am interested to see where the series goes from here- and if the danger will keep ramping up or if Jane ca find some sort of peace.