Early Book Review: Life Lessons from Catass by Claude Combacau

Life Lessons from Catass by Claude Combacau is currently scheduled for release on July 4 2017. This is a book full of sassy, cat-themed coloring pages, mazes, and puzzles with directions like: “Put the pieces of the $3,000 vase Catsass just destroyed back together. Three odd pieces are parts of other ruined objects because you don’t deserve to have it easy.” Combacau’s “Catsass” cartoons about a mischief-making feline remind cat lovers and haters alike that cats are mostly self-serving creatures. Yes, your particular cat may be awesome and sweet, but this does not make up for the number of cats whose favorite activity is knocking stuff over.

Life Lessons from Catass is a collection of activities all featuring Catsass, who I will admit to having never heard of before, even though I thought I was current on my cartoon and internet cats. Catsass is a cat that is full of mischief and more than a little crass on occasion. I think Catsass shows all the aspects of cats that haters are quick to see and point out, and that cat lovers are aware of but try to ignore. I will admit to chuckling a time or two, and finding the activities to be cute and clever. However, I think it went on just a little too long. 

Book Review: A Reckless Promise (Little Season) by Kasey Michaels

A Reckless Promise is the third book in the Little Season series by Kasey Michaels. I have not read the previous books in this series, but was still able to fully enjoy the read. Darby Travers, Viscount Nailbourne, made a battlefield promise but never imagined that he would have to honor it. Yet here she is on his doorstep—his late comrade's young daughter, and Darby's new ward. Worse, she comes with the most overprotective, mistrustful, bothersome chaperon—the child's aunt, Sadie Grace Boxer. Darby is quite sure that behind her lovely facade, the woman is guarding a secret. Sadie Grace faced many trials working in her brother's surgery, but none prepared her for the world she's thrust into with his passing. Navigating the ton, with its endless ball gowns and parade of parties, is difficult enough, but hiding the truth about her niece while the sophisticated viscount watches her every move proves nearly impossible—particularly when his searing gaze tempts her to bare all. But when her family's past catches up with her, she'll have to trust in Darby no matter the cost to her heart.

A Reckless Promise is an entertaining and interesting read, with characters and complications that kept things interesting. I liked Sadie's character, she is smart and willing to do anything to protect her niece any danger from all sides. The mystery and danger surrounding the little girl was well done, but maybe a little too much for my tastes. However, I did love the little girl's personality and the secondary characters that made things more entertaining. Darby is a strong character, although I honestly thought his big secret would be even bigger and somehow different- not that it was not traumatic enough. I like the slow growth of friendship and more between Sadie and Darby, how they came together in trust and friendship really made their relationship seem more real to me. I was a little distracted by the secondary stories that were happening, though fans of the series are probably looking or how those little bits played out. It was an entertaining read and well worth the time, but not one that makes my looking to read the prior books of the series.

A Reckless Promise is a charming and enthralling romance and met my expectations for the author. However, it just did not stand out as an absolutely must read, but it is wonderful for a summer weekend. 

Book Review: The Book of Massively Epic Engineering Disasters: 33 Thrilling Experiments Based on History's Greatest Blunders by Sean Connolly

The Book of Massively Epic Engineering Disasters: 33 Thrilling Experiments Based on History's Greatest Blunders by Sean Connolly is a children's non fiction book that explores and explains some of the more interesting engineering blunders of the world. Ever wonder why Italy’s Leaning Tower of Pisa has been slowly toppling over for centuries? Stack books on a foundation of paper balls to learn about rickety building foundations and center of mass. How about the 15-foot-high tidal wave of molasses that tore through the streets of Boston in the Great Molasses Flood of 1919? Karate chop a full tube of toothpaste (outside!) to demonstrate the messy behavior of non-Newtonian fluids.

The Book of Massively Epic Engineering Disasters offers young (and adult) readers information and activities that bring that information home. It is an illustrated look at the physics and technology that makes up crumbling buildings, sinking ships, wobbly bridges, mud-stuck tanks, and so on. I like that the book covers well known engineering issues, like the Leaning Tower of Pisa and Titanic, but it also deals with lesser known mistakes like the  Fidnae Stadium collapse in ancient Rome. There are also  33 hands-on experiments to help readers see their new understanding and information in action.

The Book of Massively Epic Engineering Disasters will help Children and adults understand the science and concepts behind these mishaps and disasters while offering pathways to further information and research. This is a good book for use in schools, independent study, homeschooling, or simply reading by those that are interested in the information included. 

Book Review: Rake's Redemption (Wind Dragon's MC) by Chantal Fernando

Rake's Redemption is the fourth book in the Wind Dragon's MC series by Chantal Fernando. I have not read the previous books in the series but was able to fully enjoy the story. Those that have read the other books will get more out of the story because of their prior knowledge of the characters and the conflicts and interrelationships. 

Rake is known for being up for anything, in and out of the bedroom. He’s wild, he’s deadly, yet behind his womanizing facade, Rake hides the pain of losing his first love, Bailey. He hasn’t loved anyone since, and doesn’t think he ever will. Seven years after their split, Rake and Bailey run into each other at the MC’s favorite club. Old wounds resurface, secrets are spilled and passionate feelings are awakened. But they’ve each done things to hurt the other, hurt them too badly to get over it—haven’t they? Only when Bailey’s connection to Rake puts her in danger from another Club member does he realize that there’s nothing he won’t do to protect her—and claim her as his once again.

Rake's Redemption is a complex second chance story. Rake and Bailey parted on bad terms, and when they unexpectedly run across each other those hard feelings rise hard and fast. However, it takes a long time for the conflict that broke them up as high school sweethearts seems to take forever to come to light. I like that Bailey has a small support system and where her daughter is while she is alone is actually explained- too often in romances featuring a single parent the kid is just magically with a sitter that they really cannot afford or that we never meet. I also liked that the characters are complex, even the secondary characters. No one is completely good or bad, rather shades of gray like real people. Although, I have trouble getting past the motorcycle club culture as it is represented in this subgenre- mostly because everyone I know that rides (even those in clubs) are law abiding and spend most of their 'club' time raising money or participating in charitable things rather than dealing in violence and turf wars. I do not doubt that there are, or have been, groups like this and appreciate the suspension of disbelief- but I just cannot do it.

Rake's Redemption is a solid second chance romance with endearing characters. Although, I think I have discovered that the Motorcycle club/ outlaw romances are just not my thing which made getting lost in the story a little harder. Those that love the subgenre will adore the series.

Early Book Review: Natural Wonders of Assateague Island by Mark Hendricks

Natural Wonders of Assateague Island by Mark Hendricks is a wonderful collection of photography and information which is currently scheduled for release on June 28 2017. Assateague Island, primarily known for its population of wild horses and pristine beaches, is a magical place. Yet few people have experienced all of its natural wonders. Noted wildlife photographer Mark Hendricks has spent years exploring the barrier island and shares his passion for the area's incredible biodiversity in this stunning collection of more than 190 color pictures. Through his lens and words, he captures truly rare moments with some elusive creatures, including a river otter, snowy owl, black stallion, and the threatened piping plover. From the windswept beaches to inland forests and through all seasons, this personal journey is relatable to all who have visited, or wish to visit, this enchanted island off the coasts of both Maryland and Virginia. 

Natural Wonders of Assateague Island is a visually and intellectually stunning work. I love nature and learning new things about places I thought I knew, and places I never even knew existed. This book told me so much about somewhere I have never seen and only heard about once or twice in passing. The photography is stunning and the book is worth looking over just for the images collected here. I really enjoyed that amount of information that was included, some in large block other in single sentences unobtrusively included in the corners of the related images. This is a book that I will go back and revisit both for the images and information- and be able to share with my animal and nature obsessed daughter. 

Early Book Review: Hair-pocoalypse by Geoff Herbach, Stephen Gilpin

Hair-pocalypse is a picturebook written by Geoff Herbach and illustrated by Stephen Gilpin. It is currently scheduled for release on August 1 2017. Aidan Allen has angry hair. That's right angry hair. Hands down, he has the angriest hair anyone has ever seen. But why is his hair so angry? Why is his hair trying to ruin his life? Why is the sky blue? Two of these three questions will be answered in this comical tale of kid vs. hair.

Hair-pocalypse is a bright and energetically illustrated picturebook. As someone that has hair with a mind of its own (in fact my hair's sentient nature is a running joke among some of my friends- who claim it grows and moves when I get angry) this book was one I just had to read. However, Aidan and I have some major differences in out hygiene habits. In short, Adian does not really care to be clean. He is admittedly a grubby kid- and his hair has had enough. I loved the images of the things his hair does to get his full attention, and how simple a peaceful solution is. I think this is a great book for sharing with kids that argue about bathing, brushing, and other basic issues that effect cleanliness. Most children go through a stage when they do not want to take the time to get clean, or try to rationalize that they will just get dirty again. I can think of a few little ones that I need to share this fun, and non shaming, book about needing to be clean, at least a little. I really like that the changes Adian makes are small steps, ones that are likely to stick and perhaps start a trend in a cleaner direction for him and readers of like mind.

Book Review: Brew or Die by Caroline Fardig

Brew or Die by Caroline Fardig is the fourth book in the Jave Jive series.  The Previous books were Death Before Decaf, Mug Shot, and A Whole Latte Murder. While newcomers might still enjoy the mystery, I think those that have read the series in order will get much more enjoyment from the read. 

Inspired by her past sleuthing successes, Juliet Langley has officially joined the ranks of Nashville’s licensed private investigators. Her best friend, Pete Bennett, doesn’t worry that her detective work might interfere with her full-time job running his coffeehouse, Java Jive. He just wishes she would spend her free time rejoining the local music scene instead of tailing cheating spouses. But when one of Java Jive’s baristas, Shane, asks Juliet to look into the suspicious death of his fiancée, Pete encourages her to plow full steam ahead. Since his fiancée died on the job, Shane suspects that her party-planning colleagues are up to something criminal—and will do anything to keep it quiet. After Juliet recruits Pete to go undercover with her at a wedding showcase, she discovers that white lace and black satin have a way of hiding big, fat secrets. If that weren’t enough to fill her plate, her latest P.I. job has her crossing paths with her ex, Detective Ryder Hamilton. They’re barely on speaking terms, but to solve the case, they might have to cooperate. No matter where Juliet goes, she’s brewing up trouble.

Brew or Die has the same feel, and some of the same troubles as the previous books in the series. I still like Juliet and all of her neurosis. I like her confidence, intelligence, and willingness to help others. I like that she is just as flawed and occasionally insecure as any real person- especially when it comes to her relationships. That being said, I am over the tension between her and Pete, and would love to see that fade away a bit more- especially with Ryder trying to get himself back into the story. I also like that Juliet has enough self awareness to realize that she is not always making the smartest choice, and is willing to own her own choices and mistakes. I liked the level of danger and mystery- and the character interactions, particularly with Juliet and Ryder. A fast, fun read that offered a few surprises along the way. 

Brew or Die is a fun continuation of the series, with just as much intrigue, danger, and troubled in relationships as fans have come to expect. The result is a quick, entertaining read. 

Book Review: Stop Feedin' da Boids! by James Sage, Pierre Pratt

Stop Feedin' da Boids! is a picture book written by James Sage and illustrated by Pierre Pratt. When Swanda first moves to Brooklyn from the country, she misses the wildlife she left behind. But not for long. Swanda notices all the pigeons outside her apartment and decides that they need a bird feeder of their own. It is fun to watch the pigeons flock to the feeder, at first. But then more arrive, and then more, and more. Before she knows it, there are way too many pigeons! Swanda seeks some help from a few experts; a pest control officer, the keeper of birds at the city zoo, and an exotic bird fancier from Peru but that gets her nowhere. So her neighbors step in with their own solution. 

Stop Feedin' da Boids! is a fun picturebook that tells what could happen when a nature-loving girl meets city birds. The artwork is bright and adds detail and an additional layer of humor to the story. Readers get to see Swanda's good intentions, and the unintentional chaos that her actions cause. I loved that the story shows both the good heart and desire to help, as well as the need to think about the bigger picture and that doing a little research before try to help might be a good thing. 

 

Stop Feedin' da Boids! is a funny book for sharing one on one or in a group read aloud setting. While it is great fun and humorous, it would also work as an introduction to social studies lessons on the differences of communities and dialects or a discussion about how animals adapt to live in cities. 

Book Review: Dog with a Bone (Black Dog) by Hailey Edwards

Dog with a Bone is the first book in the Black Dog series by Hailey Edwards. Half-bloods with Thierry’s skill set are given two options. They can join the conclave’s marshal program, or they can pack their bags. Turn down the job offer, and you’ve just shredded your residency pass for the mortal realm and booked yourself a one-way ticket to Faerie. Texas is the only home Thierry has ever known, and she’s not going anywhere. Even if it means following in her notorious father’s footsteps as a peacekeeper. But pinning on the badge opens her eyes to the fact sometimes fae need protection too, and that sometimes humans are the real monsters.

Dog with a Bone is an urban fantasy that breaks the mold a little. I have seen the idea of supernaturals policing their own, but had not seen Thierry's particular flavor of creature (which is only partially explained) before. That alone intrigued me. I found Thierry to be capable, strong, and smart; with enough insecurity in her abilities and power to make her real to me. I liked the chemistry between Thierry and her partner- as well as the groundwork laid down with the Marshals and her friends.  I think that this series has a lot of potential, and I do hope to keep reading. I not only want to see where the next case takes Thierry, I also want to learn more about the fae (including Thierry) and world that this particular series takes place in. The balance between information given, hinted at, and left out hit the perfect balance to intrigue but not annoy urban fantasy fans- which will keep them interested and reading. 

Dog with a Bone is the great start to a series. It left me with one mystery solved, and plenty more to think about as the book ended. I was not thrilled with the teaser ending, but completely understand why it was done. I will pick up the following books if I run across them, unfortunately my current reading list is too long to include it on my "looking for" list.

Book Review: Ninja Plants: Survival and Adaptation in the Plant World by Wiley Blevins

Ninja Plants: Survival and Adaptation in the Plant World by Wiley Blevins is a non fiction book for children and adults. What can communicate but has no mouth, and can attack but has no hands? A plant! You might love the beauty and fragrance of flowers, but plants are far more complex than meets the eye. Some plants have ways of luring insects for pollination. Others mimic the look of the female insects whose male counterparts they want to attract. The Venus flytrap eats insects and other small animals for extra nourishment. You might see some of these ninja plants with their sneaky and deceitful ways in your own backyard. These plants might even be sitting on a windowsill in your home. This fascinating world of ninja plants is waiting to be discovered.

Ninja Plants: Survival and Adaptation in the Plant World is a well-written and organized book that informs and entertains. I have always been fascinated by plants, the more unusual the better. This book feed that curiosity and taught be a few new things along the way. I think it is fairly text heavy, but there are some stunning images through out the pages to break up the information. The text and images were interesting and informative- holding my interest and exploring the wide variety of plants around the world that have adapted in dangerous and amazing ways to survive. I really enjoyed the conclusion, and think it a valuable read. 

Due to the amount and difficulty of the text I think  Ninja Plants: Survival and Adaptation in the Plant World would be best suited for middle grade or older readers. Younger readers that are advanced or very interested in the material would be engaged and enjoy the read as well. There are some very interesting, sometimes funny or gross, bits of information that will keep the motivated or engaged reader turning the pages and reading. A good resource and read for school and public libraries.