Early Book Review: Manfried the Man by Caitlin Major, Kelly Bastow

Manfried the Man is a graphic novel by Caitlin Major and Kelly Bastow that reverses the roles of cats and people. It is currently scheduled for release on May 1 2018.

Manfried is a stray man taken in by Steve Catson, a slacker with a dead-end job and nonexistent love life. Soon Manfried becomes the Garfield to Steve’s Jon Arbuckle: lazy, selfish, and sometimes maddening in his weird human behavior. Yet the pair depends on each other to get through life’s troubles. When Manfried runs away, Steve musters his meager resources to find his best man-friend and bring him home safe. Ultimately, both Steve and Manfried realize they’re capable of so much more than they thought.

Manfried the Man is a clever idea, that I am surprised has not already done. The art is very well done, and tells a story that is not all sunshine and roses. Steve has a dead end job, and even that does not last. He doubts himself, his worth, and worries about how others see him. I think most single adults, and most cat lovers (single or not) can relate to many of the conflicts, thoughts, and wackiness that happens around pets. I found that there were times my heart broke for Steve, times I worried for Manfried, and other times that the action made me smile or giggle. I think most cat lovers will get something from the read, and I think it will resonate with many readers as well. I enjoyed the read, even the less happy moments, and found it very much worth my time. 

Early Book Review: Fish-Boy by Vanita Oelschlager

Fish-Boy: An Inuit Folk Tale is a picturebook by Vanita Oelschlager with art by Mike Blanc. It is currently scheduled for release on May 1 2018. 

The Arctic region of North America is a land of long days, icy cold, hardy people and peculiar creatures.  The Inuit people there have made traditional use of remarkable folk tales to find truth and explain the mysteries of an astonishing world. In this book Vanita Oelschlager retells a tale passed down by a wise old Inuit.  It is an origin story involving a little magic and a very odd boy with a large heart for friendship.  On a journey with his new father, he must confront misfortune and the malice of cold-hearted villagers.  But he has a way, and a lesson for all in the virtues of kindness and hospitality.

 

Fish-Boy is a beautifully illustrated tale, and one I am glad I explored. It is a little more complex and text heavy than the typical picturebook, however I think the book does exactly what it was meant to. It imparts an important tale from a culture that too many have ignored. While the laws of hospitality are not unique to the Inuit culture, I had not heard this particular story before. The art is captivating, and will keep younger readers that might not be able to read the book on their own, or understand the finer details, interested. I loved that a glossary and ideas for using creativity and expand thinking were included in the back. A bonus for those that buy the book, which I was unaware of, is that all the net profits from the sales of this book will be donate to the Oak Clinic for Multiple Sclerosis by Vanita Books. 

Fish-Boy is an older picturebook that tells a valuable story from a culture too few have explored. I think the depth of the story and wording makes it good for an audience a little older than the traditional picturebook crowd, but the story and message is one that should speak to everyone.

Early Book Review: Badass Braids: From Vikings to Game of Thrones, 50 Maverick Looks for Sci-Fi and Fantasy Fanatics by Shannon Burns

Badass Braids: From Vikings to Game of Thrones, 50 Maverick Looks for Sci-Fi and Fantasy Fanatics by Shannon Burns is currently scheduled for release on April 3 2018. When she’s not studying for her PhD in social neuroscience, Silvousplaits (a.k.a. Shannon Burns) is creating and posting weekly instructional videos on her YouTube channel of DIY hair art that mimics the hairstyles of valiant men and women in the best historical, sci-fi, and fantasy shows and movies. Game of Thrones, Lord of the Rings, Vikings, and The Hunger Games--oh yeah, she's done them all. In Badass Braids she shows you how to transform your hair step-by-step. You'll look just like your favorite heroes and heroines in no time. With an introduction to the styling techniques for different kinds of basic braids, interviews with behind-the-scenes stylists and actors, and original styles inspired by fan-favorites.

Badass Braids: From Vikings to Game of Thrones, 50 Maverick Looks for Sci-Fi and Fantasy Fanatics has me wishing I had my long hair back, and willing to go through the awkward regrowth process so that I can try more of these out. This book offers readers a good deal of information on the tools and tricks for perfect braiding. I liked the amount of detail given about the different combs, brushes, other tools and decorations that could be used and how or why you might want to use one or another. The tips and instructions are all well done and very detailed, but never talk down to the readers, which sometimes happens in how-to books of every variety. I also like that there is information on the character each style is based on with each style, both including who they are portrayed by and some information on the real character from history, literature, and so on. The combination of photographs, illustrations, and step by step instructions make the process easy to follow on your own.

Badass Braids: From Vikings to Game of Thrones, 50 Maverick Looks for Sci-Fi and Fantasy Fanatics is a wonderful book for hair and braid lovers, and those looking to emulate the characters from various shows and movies. It could also be helpful for cosplay, conventions, and other costumed events. While not everyone needs this book, anyone wanting to expand thier knowledge of hairstyles in general, and braiding in particular, would do well to get this book. 

Early Book Reviews: Wolf Sanctuary: The Wolves of Speedwell Forge by Chuck Rineer

Wolf Sanctuary: The Wolves of Speedwell Forge by Chuck Rineer is both a photography collection and a non fiction book about the wolves of Speedwell Forge Wolf Sanctuary.It is currently scheduled for release on April 28 2018.

Speedwell Forge Wolf Sanctuary is a refuge for displaced wolves in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania. Through the images readers can experience wolves at work and play, and encounter their howls and growls close up. Since 2007, Chuck Rineer has photographed the packs in their natural habitat, displaying a connection and respect for their way of life that few of us will experience. See the hidden details of wolf life, and go behind-the-scenes of this special sanctuary. Learn how the newest wolves are integrated into the packs, something rarely seen by human eyes, and follow all the wolves through the different seasons of the year. Full of stunning photographs, stories, and insights into pack behavior, this is a must-have book for those who have been captivated by wolves from afar and long for the chance to see these majestic animals up close and personal.

Wolf Sanctuary: The Wolves of Speedwell Forge has some wonderful photographs and very interesting  information about this sanctuary, it staff, and the wolves. It was a well organized and worded collection of information- with some pictures that might seem commonplace, but others that are startling. My daughter is wolf obsessed, and I have always been a fan, so I have done my fair share of wolf research. However, getting to see the current state of a wolf sanctuary, and some of the work and people involved behind the scenes was moving. I enjoyed getting to see all that is involved in the lives of the wolves, and what goes into keeping them safe and happy without encroaching on their natural behaviors. I have a feeling this might become a household favorite, but fear that requests for a road trip will soon follow. 

Book Review: Brew: A Love Story by Tracy Ewens

Brew: A Love Story by Tracy Ewens is a contemporary romance. Boyd McNaughton is working on balance. He is a father, a brewmaster, and the oldest brother of four. When he’s not running Foghorn Brewery with two of his brothers, his days are packed with carpools, teenage angst, and well-intentioned school moms determined to send him on the perfect blind date. After a simple argument ends with a visit to the emergency room, Boyd discovers the one thing he’s been neglecting, his life. Ella Walters is working on connection. Having grown up in a less-than-affectionate family of overachievers, she moved to Petaluma for a slower pace and to escape her past. She has friends now instead of accolades, chooses chocolate croissants over super foods, and cherishes the peace that’s replaced the drama. Sure, she occasionally misses the buzz of the San Francisco General Hospital ER, but Ella is learning that navigating a fuller life can be just as exciting. When Boyd’s son, Mason, seeks out Dr. Ella for “advice” and Boyd stumbles all over her newly healed heart, she finds herself longing for something she never knew existed. But families are messy, and they’ll both need to let go of the past if they want to find a future that’s more than by the book.

Brew: A Love Story is a modern romance full of the trials of connection and letting go. None of us come into a new relationship without our past shaping how we see things and react, this is particularly true with the main players of this story. Ella comes to the story with a less than pleasant family, and something that sent her running from her perfectly ordered life. She is just starting to let people in, and start feeling with the help of great friends. Boyd is a dad first, and everything else second. When he took charge of raising his son he did everything he could o give Mason the best life he could, but things are changing, because Mason is growing up (as they tend to) faster than he is really prepared for. Neither Boyd or Ella is quite ready to jump on in, but their attraction and the support of those around them urge them in the right direction. Now they each just need to get out of their own heads and pasts, and work on figuring out what they want and need. I love the reality of this story, because none of use are in a vacuum. Family, past troubles, friends, and everything around us effects how we interact with others and perceive he world. I love that there was movement in the relationships and characters around them as well, showing just how fluid and changeable life really is. Boyd and Ella each have things to work out, and those that support them and give them the straight talk that they occasionally need to open their eyes. The honesty and heart break her was very well done, and while there were moments when I wanted to kick one or both of them, I was glad to see them find their way.

Brew: A Love Story is a heart warming story of two people finding each other, and themselves. I enjoyed the read, and hope to explore more from this author in the near future. 

Book Review: Kim Reaper: Grim Beginnings by Sarah Graley

Kim Reaper: Grim Beginnings by Sarah Graley is a graphic novel that collects the first four issues of the comic. Like most university students, Kim works a part-time job to make ends meet. Unlike most university students, Kim's job is pretty cool: she's a grim reaper, tasked with guiding souls into the afterlife. Like most university students, Becka has a super intense crush. Unlike most university students, Becka's crush is on a beautiful gothic angel that frequents the underworld. Of course, she doesn't know that.Unaware of the ghoulish drama she's about to step into, Becka finally gathers up the courage to ask Kim on a date! But when she falls into a ghostly portal and interrupts Kim at her job, she sets off a chain of events that will pit the two of them against angry cat-dads, vengeful zombies, and perhaps even the underworld itself. But if they work together, they just might make it and maybe even get a smooch in the bargain.

Kim Reaper: Grim Beginnings is a fun, fast read with cute and compelling artwork. I was already familiar with the artist's work, so the style is exactly what I was expecting. I like the combination of sweet, sassy, and strong for the lead characters. I also like the combination of humor and danger inherent in Kim's job and the complications that it involves. I would have liked a little more of the relationship side- one minute Kim does not know who Becka is and the next she is trying to impress her with haunted, sunken ships. However, the fast pace of the story and the quirky nature of it made the read enjoyable. I think most of the people that would pick this graphic novel up- based on the cover, author, or summary, will fully enjoy the read. 

Book Review: What a Highlander's Got to Do (Untamed Highlander) by Sabrina York

What a Highlander's Got to Do is the fifth book in the Untamed Highlander series by Sabrina York. Each book in the series has some character carry over, but they can all be read as stand alones. 

Isobel Dounreay Lochlannach is a fierce and independent Scots lass. She has no intention to marry—to submit to a man—especially not an Englishman. But when she meets a devilish stable lad on the way to London, she can’t help but sneak a kiss with the handsome stranger, sure to never see him again. Nick Wyeth is not a stable lad. He’s Viscount Stirling, and heir to one of the most powerful dukes in the realm. If their indiscretion is discovered, Isobel will be forced to marry him, to succumb to a fate she has always spurned. Nick wants nothing but to call this wild Scottish lass his own, and is determined to show her how an English Viscount can make her swoon, and be his forever.

What a Highlander's Got to Do is a historical romance with many twists and turns. We have the headstrong, capable Isobel on her way to London for a season she does not want. I like that while she is resilient and strong she is also scared of losing herself and does not want to become the wife of someone who would cage or own her. Nick makes a mistake in no clearing up a case of mistaken identity in the beginning, but that is only the start of the problems for a viscount that had no interest in marriage before running into Isobel and their moments together. I enjoyed the family and friend connections, and the humor and honest discussions they have with Nick and Isobel in turn, trying to help them find their path. I also like that for the most part, Isobel and Nick are as honest with each other as they are with themselves. I am a big fan of romantic couples actually talking things out rather than skating over the issues that had been between them earlier or ignoring them completely. The danger element added some spark to the story, and certainly added some excitement. It was well done, and good fun and wrapped up quickly, but I wonder if it was needed.I also liked that the external conflicts were fairly easy to over come, but the inner doubts and struggles were the heart of the barriers between Isobel and Nick. Their communication and connection was beautifully done. As a whole, I greatly enjoyed the read for the characters, their interaction, and the humor I found in those interactions.

What a Highlander's Got to Do is a wonderful historical romance from York, although I have come to expect nothing less. If you are a fan, then you know you will already be giving this book a go. If you are not a fan yet, but love a good historical with a touch of a brogue, then give the author a try.

Early Book Review: The City on the Other Side by Mairghread Scott, Robin Robinson

The City on the Other Side by Mairghread Scott and Robin Robinson is a fantasy graphic novel currently scheduled for release on April 24 2018. In this story a young girl stumbles into a pitched war between two fairy kingdoms, and the fate of San Francisco itself hangs in the balance! Sheltered within her high-society world, Isabel plays the part of a perfectly proper little girl. She is quiet, well-behaved, and she keeps her dresses spotlessly clean. She’s certainly not the kind of girl who goes on adventures. But that all changes when Isabel breaches an invisible barrier and steps into another world. She discovers a city not unlike her own, but magical and dangerous. Here, war rages between the fairies of the Seelie and Unseelie Courts. Only Isabel, with the help of a magical necklace and a few new friends, stands a chance of ending the war before it destroys the fairy world, and her own.

The City on the Other Side is a coming of age or quest adventure with a fae twist. I like that Isabel is a quiet girl that wants more right from the start, and while she grows and gains confidence she keeps the same core of goodness. She faces the trails of feeling neglected by her parents, and lost in the shuffle. I like how she is kind despite the way she feels, and how she is willing to step up and help, even when she is clearly in over her head. I think the secondary characters and conflict of the fae war is well done, and while it carries shades of what i thought I knew about the fairy world, it was approached in a fresh, new way. The young orphan-ish hero is also a tried and true story, but her challenges were well written and drawn, making the story feel fresh rather than stale- which happens often. I liked while I was often wondering who might betray our main players, and how the story would come together in the end. I liked the art work, but it was a little sharper than I normally like. The humans had a much rounder feel than the fae, which made the differences more pronounced. Since I was looking at a digital galley, I fully expect that it looks even better in the physical copy. 

The City on the Other Side is a well done graphic novel that will appeal to middle grade readers, young adult readers, and adults. I enjoyed the read, and think many readers of all ages will enjoy it as well.

Early Book Review: Life in the Sloth Lane: Slow Down and Smell the Hibiscus by Lucy Cooke

Life in the Sloth Lane: Slow Down and Smell the Hibiscus by Lucy Cooke is currently scheduled for release on April 17 2018. This book is exactly what the title suggested, pictures of sloths to help those looking through the pages to slow down and enjoy. Photos of a variety of adorable sloths illustrate a mindfulness book that reminds us to slow down and appreciate the small things.

Life in the Sloth Lane: Slow Down and Smell the Hibiscus is full of photographs featuring sloths. Two toed sloths, three toed sloths, baby sloths, sloths holding flowers,sloths that seem to be smiling, and sloths looking right at the camera so it looks like they are looking you in the eye. Interspersed with these delightful images are quotes meant to encourage and support mindfulness and some factual information about sloths. The book is soothing, full of cuteness, and I learned some things about sloths along the way. Unless you are one of those people that do not find sloths cute or fascinating in some way, you will want to read this book, or at least take a moment and slowly flip through the pages. 

Book Review: Ellie Engineer by Jackson Pearce

Ellie Engineer is a middle grade novel by Jackson Pearce, and is the first book in a new series about a girl who loves to build. Ellie is an engineer. With a tool belt strapped over her favorite skirt (who says you can’t wear a dress and have two kinds of screwdrivers handy, just in case?), she invents and builds amazing creations in her backyard workshop. Together with her best friend Kit, Ellie can make anything. As Kit’s birthday nears, Ellie doesn’t know what gift to make until the girls overhear Kit’s mom talking about her present—the dog Kit always wanted! Ellie plans to make an amazing doghouse, but her plans grow so elaborate that she has to enlist help from the neighbor boys and crafty girls, even though the two groups don’t get along. Will Ellie be able to pull off her biggest project yet?

Ellie Engineer is a wonderful story about friendship and being yourself. It also covers the changes in friend groups and friendship dynamics in those in between years when boys and girls tend to separate. Ellie and Kit are different, but they are still best friends with a love of building. When things are not going according to plan Ellie needs to adjust, and keeping her doghouse a secret from Kit- and getting help from those she does not ordinarily spend time with during the summer, leads to a series of problems. I liked Ellie's flexibility ith her projects, and how she gets things done, and I sympathized with her attempts to keep everyone happy, when she should have just been honest with everyone from the beginning. I think young readers will relate to at least one character in the story, even if it is not Ellie. Some might connect with Kit feeling left out, or those helping Ellie but being kept a secret from each other. I love that the book includes information about the tools Ellie uses in the story, and those that readers might get access to, and permission to use. The how-tos and information just might get readers making their own inventions, and testing or repairing gadgets of their own.

Ellie Engineer is a fun middle grade read that encourages friendship and ingenuity outside the normal limits most kids feel constrained by. I found the emotion and social queues to be on point, and I loved the message of the story.