Early Book Review: The Boy with the Bookstore by Sarah Echavarre Smith

The Boy with the Bookstore by Sarah Echavarre Smith is a contemporary romance that is currently scheduled for release on September 6 2022. Max Boyson looks good, from a distance. But up close and personal, the tattooed hottie Joelle Prima has been crushing on for the past year and half has turned into the prime example of why you shouldn’t judge a book by his delectable cover. When she first learned about the massive renovation to the building they share, Joelle imagined that temporarily combining her Filipino bakery with Max’s neighboring bookstore would be the perfect opening chapter to their happily ever after. In her fantasies they fed each other bibingka and pandesal while discussing Jane Austen and cooing over her pet hamster, Pumpkin. Reality, however...is quite different. Her gallant prince turned out to be a stubborn toad who snaps at her in front of customers, dries his wet clothes in her oven, and helps himself to the yummy pastries in her display case without asking. But beneath Max’s grumpy glares, Joelle senses a rising heat—and a softening heart. And when they discover the real reason for the renovation, they’ll have to put both their business senses and their feelings for each other to the test.

The Boy with the Bookstore has a great premise and some really high points to it, but I have to admit that I had trouble staying engaged. I think that Max and Joelle had great depth of character and I enjoyed getting to know them. Since they had been crushing on each other for a while at the start of the book I feel like I missed a good portion of the getting to know each other and coming to care about each other- which is often my favorite part of any story. I felt like the romance progressed very naturally, and it all felt right, I just missed getting that initial meeting and I think that is why I had so much trouble getting engaged. I have the same problem with other subgenres- like the second chance romance- for the same reason. I thought the crisis and emotional baggage of both Max and Joelle were well done and realistic, and I liked that time passed and was mentioned but unimportant moments and time that made the pair more comfortable with each other were mentioned but not focused on. Overall I liked the book, and I thought there is some great potential here, it just did not grab me the way I was hoping it would. 

The Boy with the Bookstore is a solid, emotional romance with a dose of heat. 

Early Book Review: Secrets of the Lost City: A Scientific Adventure in the Honduran Rain Forest by Sandra Markle

Secrets of the Lost City: A Scientific Adventure in the Honduran Rain Forest by Sandra Markle is a children's nonfiction book currently scheduled for release on September 6 2022. Join a scientific expedition to a remote area of the Honduran rainforest, suspected to be the ruins of the Lost City of the Monkey God. The team of scientists had only ten days to hike into the dense jungle, likely unvisited by humans in the past 500 years, and locate the archaeological site. In addition to searching for and finding incredible artifacts, scientists also uncovered an amazing, diverse ecosystem flourishing due to the lack of human influences. They recorded hundreds of different kinds of animals, including some new species as well as animals listed as endangered or previously believed to be extinct. Award-winning author Sandra Markle incorporates interviews and information from key scientists who took part in this ten-day expedition, showing how their discoveries led to new protections for this incredible place.

Secrets of the Lost City is a fascinating read about scientist looking to solve several mysteries together. Not only were they looking to find archeological proof of the Lost City, but they combined talents and resources to study the state of the environment and the living things in the area. I love that the book gives hints at how much planning and hard work goes into just getting the permission of governments and important organizations just to get into some areas of the world, and then there are the challenges of the location and safety and health challenges that might come with the search for more knowledge and understanding.  I enjoyed getting to see the pictures of the discoveries that were made, both archeological and biological, and thought that the text and photographs were combined well to keep and hold the attention of readers without overwhelming them. I was glad to see the glossary, sources cited, and suggestions for further reading. I hope the book and that list will inspire many readers to further explore the subject, and perhaps become scientists themselves in the future. 

Secrets of the Lost City is yet another wonderful scientific nonfiction book for children.

Book Review: World of Weird: A Creepy Compendium of True Stories by Tom Adams, Celsius Pictor

World of Weird: A Creepy Compendium of True Stories written by Tom Adams and illustrated by Celsius Pictor, It is a compellation of unusual and somewhat creepy artifacts and stories from the past framed as a 21st century a scientist uncovering their Victorian ancestor’s notebook in a box. The ancestor is Dr. McCreebor; an eminent explorer, philosopher, and collector of the very strange and truly creepy. Dr. McCreebor's book is filled with the dark and disturbing stories he has collected on his travels around the world. Discover the fascinating stories behind a series of objects, people, and places in every chapter. McCreebor writes from a Victorian perspective – and his descendant isn't afraid to write notes in the margins, bringing the science into the 21st century. Uncover Artificalia (man-made objects), Naturalia (natural creatures and beings), Spiritualis (the spirit world), ScelereSupplicium (crime and punishment), Scientifica (scientific tools), Magicae (magical objects), and Morteum (skulls, bodies, and more). Steampunk illustrator Celsius Pictor intricately illustrates McCreebor’s sketches, maps, records, and photographs. From shrunken heads to witches’ charms, saints’ blood to graverobbers’ remains, hangman’s salve to trepanning tools, this book is a peek into our grisly and macabre past.

World of Weird is a book that will appeal to readers of all ages that enjoy learning about some of the darker and stranger ideas in history. I did not find any of the stories or artifacts described to be terribly unknown or gruesome, as these are the types of historic nonfiction that I tend to gravitate toward, but some of the information might be new to other readers. I thought the urging of respect for the dead not taking chances in messing with ghosts or other people's beliefs to be very respectful and responsibly handled. I also thought that the text and illustrations were well suited to the subject matter and accessible to a wide range of readers. I found text and art are well paired to keep the readers attention, and are done in nice small subtopics so that no one looses interest of focus and can read the book in small doses if that is what works best for them. I liked that a glossary was included as well.  I think this book will see regular check outs in school and public libraries and be a favorite read for many. 

Early Book Review: Bob Ross Cross Stitch: 12 Happy Little Cross Stitch Patterns - Includes: Embroidery Hoop, Floss, Fabric and Instruction Book with 12 Patterns! by Haley Pierson-Cox

Bob Ross Cross Stitch: 12 Happy Little Cross Stitch Patterns - Includes: Embroidery Hoop, Floss, Fabric and Instruction Book with 12 Patterns! by Haley Pierson-Cox honors the beloved artist’s legacy with twelve patterns featuring Bob Ross's famous quotes and the materials needed to make 2 of the designs. It is currently scheduled fir release on August 30 2022.

Bob Ross brought happiness to millions with his oil painting program The Joy of Painting and continues to spread that joy to a new audience through YouTube, Amazon Prime, Tubi, re-runs on public television, and many, many others. His beautiful landscapes, calming presence, and wise quotes—“We don’t make mistakes. We just have happy accidents”—have become the hallmarks of his brand. This kit includes materials to make 2 designs, along with a 48-page, illustrated instruction book for 12 different patterns inspired by Ross’s quotes. In each kit, you’ll find 2 pieces of cross stitch fabric, a needle, embroidery floss, embroidery hoop, and the instruction book. 

Bob Ross Cross Stitch: 12 Happy Little Cross Stitch Patterns - Includes: Embroidery Hoop, Floss, Fabric and Instruction Book with 12 Patterns! is a well written set of instructions for cross stitch in general, and getting started on these pattern. Since I was reading a digital galley I did not get the physical items that are included in the kit, so I did not get to jump right in and get started. However, I thought he introductory information and each of the patterns were well explained and easy to understand and follow. I loved the chosen quotes, and thought that the patterns were well designed for beginning cross stitchers and will help them gain confidence in the craft  while creating something nice. 

Book Review: Bright Eyes (A Kunoichi Tale) by David Kudler

Bright Eyes is a Kunoichi Tale by David Kudler. The future of Japan hangs in the balance, and it's up to a girl who likes to climb to save the day. Two armies have descended on the Full Moon, and the war that has torn Japan apart for over a century threatens to destroy Lady Chiyome's school for young shrine maidens (and assassins). In this thrilling sequel to Risuko: A Kunoichi Tale, Risuko must face warlords, samurai, angry cooks, a monster in the hills, the truth about her father, a spy among the kunoichi, and a murderer. Someone kills a Takeda lieutenant, staging it to look like suicide. Can Risuko figure out who would do such thing? And can she keep it from happening again?

Bright Eyes is a book that I desperately wanted to read as soon as I saw it existed, and dreaded reading since it had been so long since I had read Risuko. which I remember loving but worried that I would not remember enough to follow this sequel or that it would not live up to my expectations. I should not have worried, or put of starting the book because of those worries for so long. I enjoyed this read just as much as Risuko, and honestly look forward to more. I thought the continued character development for the major characters was well done, and the mystery was handled very well. There were clues, red herrings, and interesting information about all the major players through out the book leaving readers wondering which were the really important bits for the mystery and which were there to help us understand the characters and situation even better. Even though I felt like it had been too long since I read the first book there were little hints about what had happened. Just enough to remind me, but not enough that would bore or bother readers reading the books back to back. In fact, I know there are a few novellas or short stories tied into this series , which I now need to go find and read as soon as possible. I really enjoyed the read and think it will be a hit with a wide range of readers. 

Bright Eyes is an engaging and entertaining read that delivers a rollercoaster of emotion. 

Book Review: Eventually, They All Fall by Jenna Marcus

Eventually, They All Fall by Jenna Marcus is a young adult urban fantasy. Domino Garrison knows that he is the king of all that is weird, but he would rather abdicate that throne. He would rather be a normal teenager who just goes to school and works at a bookstore—and for all intents and purposes—that's exactly how he appears to his peers; however, aside from his best friend, Griswold, no one knows Domino's secret, or his secrets. His father abandoned him and his only family—his mom—when he was 5 years old, and his mom is a drug addict who has a parade of men coming in and out of their home. Oh, and Domino has the ability to see into other people's fantasies. He thinks this ability is pretty useless; however, little does he know that his ability is more powerful and expansive than he thinks. When extraordinary circumstances begin to occur, like massive earthquakes hitting the East coast, exotic animals wandering around zoos that they had not escaped from, and black sludge eviscerating everything in its path, Domino soon discovers that not only can he see fantasies, but he can also pull these fantasies into reality; however, doing so causes horrendous pain and mental anguish as Domino is concerned that the power he has could corrupt his mind. However, he knows that it is up to him—with the support of his friends Griswold and Lucy, and his boss Miles—to put a stop to the unnatural occurrences plaguing the earth before it is too late.

Eventually, They All Fall is a read with a great premise and some intriguing possibilities. I thought the character introduction and building was very well done, and the world building for Domino's gifts was well done. I was glad to see character and relationship growth across the board, and even though there is a hint of romance, it did not take over the other aspects of the story and stayed in the background for the most part. I thought the problems the group faced were well constructed and handled, even if a few details seemed a little too easy for me - but when the magic involved is wish fulfillment it does make sense. There were some twists that went in a completely different direction than I was expecting, and some that follow my expectations. It was nice to be surprised a couple times. I will say that I liked everything about the book, but I did not get that 'I need to get back to reading" urge that some books give me. I do not think it had anything to do with the book or writing, but rather it was not the right book for me at the time. I still will be recommending it to those in my circle that I feel will enjoy it. I think there is a large audience for this book and I am interested to see where the story goes from here. 

Eventually, They All Fall is an engaging read the young adults and adults alike can enjoy.

Book Review: The Fantasy of the Middle Ages: An Epic Journey through Imaginary Medieval Worlds by Larisa Grollemond; Bryan C. Keene

The Fantasy of the Middle Ages: An Epic Journey through Imaginary Medieval Worlds by Larisa Grollemond; Bryan C. Keene is an exploration of the impact of medieval imagery on three hundred years of visual culture. From the soaring castles of Sleeping Beauty to the bloody battles of Game of Thrones, from Middle-earth in The Lord of the Rings to mythical beasts in Dungeons & Dragons, and from Medieval Times to the Renaissance Faire, the Middle Ages have inspired artists, playwrights, filmmakers, gamers, and writers for centuries. Indeed, no other historical era has captured the imaginations of so many creators. This volume aims to uncover the many reasons why the Middle Ages have proven so flexible—and applicable—to a variety of modern moments from the eighteenth through the twenty-first century. These “medieval” worlds are often the perfect ground for exploring contemporary cultural concerns and anxieties, saying much more about the time and place in which they were created than they do about the actual conditions of the medieval period. 

The Fantasy of the Middle Ages: An Epic Journey through Imaginary Medieval Worlds is a well written and researched exploration on the subject matter. I thought the book can appeal to those with a background in medieval studies or literature and those with little advanced knowledge as well. Since I studied Medieval literature in college and am an avid fan of fantasy, this book was a perfect combination of my interests.  I really enjoyed getting to look at the artwork along side the text, the combination made this book equally interesting intellectually and visually.  I wish I had the time and energy to get to the The Getty Museum to see the exhibit this book is a companion for, but if you are lucky enough to be able to attend I think it is worth the time. 

I think The Fantasy of the Middle Ages would make a great addition to the library of anyone interested in the subject matter, and it would be a great addition to public library collections as well. 

Early Book Review: Wow! Underneath the Earth's Crust. Trip to the Core of Our Planet by Mack Van Gageldonk

Wow! Underneath the Earth's Crust. Trip to the Core of Our Planet by Mack Van Gageldonk is a children's nonfiction book currently scheduled for release on August 9 2022. From space, the earth looks like a beautiful, colored ball. You immediately see the white clouds, blue oceans, and green, gray, and brown pieces of land. But on the inside, the earth looks very different. Are you also curious about what’s underneath your feet? Is it hot inside the earth? And do animals live there? Travel along to the center of the earth and discover everything about stone caves, geysers, volcanoes, and other magical phenomena under the earth’s crust.

Wow! Underneath the Earth's Crust. Trip to the Core of Our Planet is the second book in the Wow! series of nonfiction books for elementary school age readers. I have to admit, that while the text is accessible and interesting, it was the illustrations and photographs that really captured (and kept) my attention.  The text is very well written, it is understandable and interesting for readers of all ages. I think even children would enjoy this as a read aloud, read together, or independent read depending on their skill levels. The information shared is worded in a way that most will be engaged and understand, while being further entranced by the images in the book. I highly recommend this book for personal collections, as well as school and public libraries. 

Book Review: Tea Gardening for Beginners: Learn to Grow, Blend, and Brew Your Own Tea At Home by Julia Dimakos

Tea Gardening for Beginners: Learn to Grow, Blend, and Brew Your Own Tea At Home by Julia Dimakos is a gardening book for tea lovers. What’s more satisfying than brewing the perfect cup of tea? Brewing it from tea you grew yourself! Create your own tea garden with help from this beginner’s guide. It walks you through every step of the process, from planning your garden plot to preparing delicious tea blends. This book will help readers know understand the tea varieties, build a garden, discover and learn about plant profiles, and build up the skills to grow and make your own tea blends for your own preferences and needs. 

Tea Gardening for Beginners is a detailed and informative read for anyone serious about growing their own tea ingredients. I have been growing gardens full of herbs and vegetables for as long as I can remember. I have thought about increasing the percentage of herbs and dabbling with growing tea for awhile, in fact this is the second book I have read on doing so that I have read, but I have yet to take the plunge. I think that growing your own tea takes a focus and dedication that I tend not to give my gardens. I am much more a 'plant this and see what happens' kind of gardener with a bit of gardening knowledge to make good initial choices thrown in. I am lucky enough to have parents very into gardening, enough so that me first 'job' was replanting seedlings in the family greenhouse as a kid. I learned a bit about some of the plants I grow, and those I want to grow. I think the idea of growing my own tea is more about the actual tea plant rather than the herbs that I would also use, as I am not in the correct zone to grow tea leaves without moving plants in and outside- which I lack the space and motivation for, to be honest. However, I think this book offers readers the information and tools they need to grow their own tea ingredients successfully, and to know whether they have the time and dedication to devote to doing it right for the best results. I can think of many people that could and would, I just need to admit that it is not me. Thankfully I can, and do, grow many of the fruits, herbs, and flowers included in the book and have some great inspiration for next year's planting and recipes and techniques I would like to try. 

Book Review: Super Easy Crochet for Beginners: Learn Crochet with Simple Stitch Patterns, Projects, and Tons of Tips by Deborah Burger

Super Easy Crochet for Beginners: Learn Crochet with Simple Stitch Patterns, Projects, and Tons of Tips is a nonfiction resource by Deborah Burger. Want to learn how to crochet but are not sure how to start? With Super Easy Crochet for Beginners, adapted from Deborah Berger’s best-selling Crochet 101, you will feel confident in your skills quickly and eliminate frustrating mistakes and missteps. Learn what you need, how to read patterns, how to select yarn, and how to troubleshoot problems and turn yarn into charming knitted accessories and clothing. Building skills through fun projects, you will find success quickly and easily while actually making something, giving you the confidence to try another project. This is a comprehensive beginning crochet book, yet it won’t overwhelm you with details and instruction you don’t need or want, so you can start enjoying your crochet hobby immediately.

Super Easy Crochet for Beginners is the book I wish I had fifteen years ago when I taught myself to crochet via books, YouTube, and helpful advise fro fellow crafters after my childhood lessons on the subject failed me. Event after years or crochet, sewing, embroidery, and other crafts I had somehow never finished a project by felting, so I still learned something new even as a more experienced crocheter.  The projects are nicely varied and cover the skills and questions that new or struggling crocheters often need clarification on. My only issue is one I commonly have with this kind of guide- while the patterns are well written and the instructions easy to follow and great starting points they are also generally (with some exceptions) something that few of us actually want more of in our house, or that others would be overjoyed to receive as gifts. They are great starting points, and good ways to try new stitches and skills or to bolster confidence before trying something new, but not something many of us would make repeatedly to hone our skills. repeating a pattern you feel you mastered and enjoyed, and looks more difficult that it is results in a box of fancy shawls that it is way too hot to wear. Trust me, I know from experience.

Super Easy Crochet for Beginners definitely lives up to the title and is a great starting point.